Swansea Life September 2019 by Swansea Life

KEEPING IT LOCAL

BELLISSIMO

Hair stylist Lara Johnson’s amazing ways to WOW

20 pages of your best party pictures

Real-life bride Dr Charlotte’s glam Italian wedding

a w a r d - w i n n i n g MAGA Z INE

SWA NSE A

LIFE september 2019 £2.95

9 771750 843018

MAKEOVER MAGIC

Catherine rules the Swansea red carpet

WHY YOU FELL IN LOVE Let us take care of every last detail and discover the timeless luxury of Oldwalls

Oldwalls, a collection of exclusive wedding venues oldwallscollection.com

Contents... S E PTE M B E R

actiNG Editor Peter Slee | 01792 545559 peter.slee@reachplc.com PUBLISHER Lisa Cameron | lisa.cameron@mediawales.co.uk

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Photography Adrian White, Jonathan Myers, Hoosh Multimedia, Robert Melen Contributors Chris Peregrine, Lara Johnson, Dom Capel, Lesley Taylor, Sian Day, Joseph Atkin, Andrew Morgan, Dr Charlotte Jones, Chris Howells, James Richards, Marc White and Daniel Turner editoral designer Sandra Evans | sandra.evans@reachplc.com advertising For all advertsising inquiries, please call Debbie Roberts | 01792 545626 or email debbie.roberts@reachplc.com Swansea Life, Urban Village, High Street, Swansea, SA1 1NW @swansealife

FASHION

HAIR & BEAUTY

10.

32. HAIR MAKEOVER Why braids are the hot new hair trend

RED CARPET HITS! Ahead of the 2019 Swansea Life awards, what might you be wearing on the city’s most glamorous night of the year?

16. BUCKLE UP How the humble belt became the street style set’s ultimate styling tool 18. LADY IN RED Does the thought of wearing red bring you out in a hot flush? Here’s how to wear red and get it right, even if you’re a sartorial slave to neutrals 20.

COVER IMAGE: Catherine Zeta-Jones (Photo by Ben Birchall/PA Wire)

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34. Face mists Overpriced and pointless, or miracle workers we can’t do without? 36. Eating for good health The science behind 2019’s new berry food trend

HIGH STREET MARVELS We’ve been busy picking the treasure from the trash in some of your favourite stores ready for the month ahead

If we have published anything that is factually inaccurate, please contact the editor on 01792 545533, at postnews@mediawales.co.uk or at Evening Post, Urban Village, 220 High Street, Swansea, SA1 1NW and once verified we will correct it here as soon as possible. Swansea Life is part of Trinity Mirror North West & North Wales Ltd, a subsidiary company of Reach PLC, which is a member of IPSO, the Independent Press Standards Organisation. We adhere to the Editors’ Code Of Practice as enforced by IPSO, who are contactable for advice at Independent Press Standards

Organisation, Gate House, 1 Farringdon Street, London. EC4M 7LG. Website: www,ipso.co.uk Telephone: 0300 123 2220; email advice@ipso.co.uk If you have a complaint concerning a potential breach of the Code of Practice, we will deal with your complaint directly or IPSO can refer your complaint to us. Please go to www.reachplc.com/how-to-complain where you can view our Complaints Policy and Procedure. A “How To Complain” pack is also available by writing to the Legal and Compliance Department, Reach PLC, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AP.

50 58 BRIDE

FOOD & DRINK

HOUSE & HOME

44.

57.

66. A BEAUTIFUL READER HOME Explore a real Swansea house that could be yours

‘WE GOT MARRIED IN SORRENTO’ Join Swansea Life’s resident GP Dr Charlotte Jones on her lux day in the Italian sun

48. TO HAVE AND TO HOLD Emily Williams and Jessica Eve’s post-wedding party 50.

ARE WHIRLWIND WEDDINGS EVER A GOOD IDEA? ‘Yes, and it can be done,’ says wedding insider Shakira Obaid

Average net distribution 7,500 copies sold and distributed in Swansea, Gower and the surrounding South West Wales areas. Opinions expressed in Swansea Life magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or designer and the magazine is in no way liable for such opinions. While every effort has been made to ensure that the contents are fully accurate, we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies and late changes. No article, advertisement or graphic, in whole or in part, may be reproduced without prior permission of the publishers.

A TASTE OF HOME COOKING They’re a bit messy to eat, but with just a bit of care, Sian Day’s chocolate choux buns are the perfect afternoon treat

58. SOME LIKE IT HOT! A taste of the Caribbean in Swansea

74. COLOUR SCHOOL Stylish and practical buys to add a burst of colour to your rooms 82. CREATE A HOME YOU LOVE Genius finds from Mumbles style guru Lesley Taylor 88. Willow talk Why every home needs a touch of wicker

SWA NSEA

LIFE SWANSEA LIFE 5

From the editor 41

In fashion, as in life, September tends to be associated with a turning point of the year – new term, new season, bright beginnings – even if we are contemplating these fresh starts in the languorous days towards the end of summer. And of course, while it is likely that some of you will be reading Swansea Life on holiday, others may be still waiting for a much-needed escape. Whatever, we hope you are making the most of the last days of summer 2019. And maybe not in the most obvious of ways. Yes, of course there are the joys of our beaches and parks. But there are less obvious ways too perhaps! There are seats on the trains and buses, Mumbles Road is a lot less busy each morning for those who need to get to and from work and shopping seems just a little easier with fewer crowds and just a bit less hassle. Why? Well, it is still holiday season of course.

For the next couple of weeks, we will go through that transition period from late summer into early autumn. Those fields of sunflowers which have fleetingly held us in such awe at Rhossili again this year will fade, our early morning roads will inevitably get busier as we all get back into our stride again. So, make the moist of what lies ahead. Don’t get too caught up with things which haven’t gone well. Instead, recognise what has, and then enjoy and celebrate those. Elsewhere in the issue, and we make no apologies for taking up acres of space, we look at Catherine Zeta-Jones’ return to Swansea to be given the honorary freedom of her home city. It was every bit as glitzy as we hoped it might be. And then some! “This is a real honour,” she said during the ceremony attended by her parents, husband Michael Douglas and teenage son Dylan. The Hollywood star, seemed genuinely thrilled with her award presented by Lord Mayor Peter Black, didn’t she? I imagine there are lots of stars offered similar home town freedoms but turn them down feeling the honour isn’t quite what they want. Not our Catherine! She turned up looking magnificent, groomed to absolute perfection and as stylish as ever in a loud, beautiful red dress, then spoke about just how much Swansea meant to her.

You could tell she meant it too. Which is why we have devoted quite so many pages to her big day in the city in which she showered us all with compliments and really made us feel part of the ‘ family’ if only for a few hours.

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So well done Catherine. And welcome home, no matter for how short a time!

PETER SLEE Acting editor Contact me at peter.slee@reachplc.com 01792 455559 Find us on Facebook @SwanseaLife

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ST Y L E S O LU T I O N S

If you’ve basked in the Swansea sunshine of late you’ll have seen the mini-slip in action: if you’re under the age of 30 you almost certainly own one. Not to be confused with the classic slip — the undisputed dress of the year and still the number-one slip of choice for those born before 1987 — the mini-slip is a high-summer headliner. Available all over the high street, with H&M and Miss Selfridge among the most popular budget buys, you’ll also find them in Zara, New Look and Debenhams. As temperatures soar, so do hemlines and the long, floaty florals that have been so popular are replaced by something more sassy and streamlined. Our choice? This little number from Miss Selfridge in Parc Fforestfach; multicolour scarf print mini slip dress, £30

It’s not just the sun that’s got its hat on.

It turns out that half of Instagram does too. At least, so a cursory glance at your social feed would suggest. Straw hats in shades of tangerine, lime and fuchsia pink are big sellers at the moment, so too wide-brims swept back in spectacular fashion. Try this version from Primark in Swansea, £4. Just don’t try and cram it into your suitcase when you jet off anywhere this month!

From camping sandals to mismatched earrings, these are the top picks from the SL fashion team this month

We love...

The high street has some real treats on offer when it comes to kitting out your late summer wardrobe. From bright sun dresses to wide leg trousers, there’s so much to choose from as the last of the rays make their appearance for late August. The mid season sales are also in full swing which helps too! We’re loving these oriental garden wide leg trousers from Fat Face in Mumbles at £42.

Let your style roar If striking designs are your jam, add these little beauties from Pandora to your jewellery box this month. It has created this wonderful pair of mismatched stud earrings from its signature Rose tone metal. One features a heart while the other has a fierce lion princess; £35, Pandora, Swansea

what to buy now! Just as the summery weather starts to look like it’s sticking around a little longer, the new season collections have begun to hit the high street - such is the topsy-turvy world of fashion retail. Though browsing wool coats while sipping Pimm’s on the sun deck hardly sounds enticing at this moment, there is some benefit in taking a peek at the early autumn sartorial offering. While spending money on high summer pieces that can only be worn for a few more weeks doesn’t stack up (even if they are 70% off... okay maybe then), investing in those with a longer shelf life makes perfect cost-per-wear sense. Plus a sprinkle of new season does wonders to spice up life.

Try this dress from Next, Swansea; £39.

sporty trend If it’s dry under foot (hooray!), tap into this season’s sporty sandal trend - these comfy but cool styles won’t leave you with blisters, now matter how long you boogie. Marshall chunky multi strap sandals, £45; Office, Swansea

DRESS YOU UP... It is officially the summer of The Dress. Everywhere you look - on trains or at the tennis, at supper or in the supermarket everyone’s wearing one.

The day styles that are dominating have several factors in common; they’re all pretty, breezy and cool to wear when it’s hot outside. You can get ready mindlessly, in sub-three minutes, because all you need to do is put on shoes - trainers, even - and you’ll look as though you’ve made a considerable effort. The compliments come in fast; everyone registers that you look glorious when you’re in a glorious dress. Try this chica animal print dress, £99; Monsoon, Swansea.

SWAN-

SEA LIFE 9

red carpet style Looking for a look to impress at the Swansea VIP night of the year? From flowing evening gowns to celebrity dresses, we have everything you need for the Swansea Life Awards at the Brangwyn Hall on Friday, September 13. Go glam in an embellished red-carpet dress teamed with a clutch and strappy heels. Or if you prefer the laid-back look, style a pair of sequinned trousers with a box clutch, simple strappy heels and some chandelier earrings. Get ready to make an entrance and enjoy the night. We know you will...

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Purple Romance, Â£425; Vera Mont

SWANSEA LIFE 11

Teal occasion dress; from a range at Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

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Richard Quinn dress, Â£89; Debenhams, Swansea

SWANSEA LIFE 13

Sequinned trousers, Â£59.99; Zara, Swansea

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Mood by Jon Richards, £14; Debenhams, Swansea

Natural tone multi-bead necklace, £18; Laura Ashley, Swansea

Kurt Geiger London Knightsbridge crystal stiletto heel sandals, was £149, now £59; John Lewis, Cardiff

Symbol rose gold bangle, £79; Swarovski, Swansea

red carpet extras... Lucy beaded clutch bag, £39; Accessorize, Swansea

Dress, £69, shoes, £25; Miss Selfridge, Swansea

Chandelier earrings, £9.99. Next, Swansea

Malibu beach sandals, £49; Office, Swansea

SWANSEA LIFE 15

FASHION

Blue leather belt, £7.99; TK Maxx, Parc Morfa

Zara zebra print leather jeans belt, £26; John Lewis, Cardiff

Chocolate wide leather belt, £22; Next, Swansea

Buckle Up: belts are back. These are the styles to invest in pronto

There’s a trend making a comeback that requires you to take a deep breath. Belts – particularly waist belts – were spotted cinching and nipping in silhouettes on myriad spring/summer 2019 runways. Our style editors here at Swansea Life have been picking out some of their favourite designs

Woven fringe tie belt, £12; FatFace, Mumbles

T-shirt, £6.50; jacket, £79; belt, £19.50; Marks and Spencer, Swansea

16 SWANSEA LIFE

Brown leopard-print belt, £14; River Island, Swansea

Jumper £18, skirt £20, belt £8; M&Co, Cardiff

Trewen belt, £27.50; Seasalt, Mumbles

Wide trousers with belt detail, £49.99; Zara, Swansea

Wide buckle croc tan belt, £10; F&F at Tesco, Swansea High neck rib top, £8; button utility skirt £14; belt, £6; George at Asda, Gorseinon

Plait skinny nubuck belt, £22.50; White Stuff, Mumbles

Karen Millen black wide waist buckle belt, £75

Red Herring suede stitch belt, £16; Debenhams, Swansea

Narrow belt, £6.99; H&M, Swansea

SWANSEA LIFE 17

FASHION

LADY Tailored ankle length trouser, £120; Pure Collection

Carrie jersey tee, £35; White Stuff, Mumbles

Printed round neck cardigan, £17.50; M&S, Swansea

Banana leaf print t-shirt, £14; Bonmarche, Swansea

Red animal cold shoulder top, £23.99; Yours, Swansea

Eliza star rib trim top, £32.95; Joules, Mumbles

Cotton jacket; £60; River Island, Swansea

Tie front midi dress, £44.99; Superdry, Swansea

LK Bennett Michi ribbed jersey top, £37; John Lewis, Cardiff

Sand bank sunglasses, £35; Seasalt, Mumbles

18 SWANSEA LIFE

Croc cross body bag, £12.99; Deichmann, Cardiff

Dotty floral double layer blouse, £65; Laura Ashley, Swansea

Mulberry small seaton classic grain leather shoulder bag; £746; John Lewis, Cardiff

Red tote bag with faux leather trim, £35; Laura Ashley, Swansea

IN RED

From a range at Wallis, Swansea

Does the thought of wearing red b r i n g y o u o u t i n a h ot f l u s h ?

Here’s how to wear red and get it right, even if you’re a sartorial slave to neutrals. Hands up if you’re addicted to neutrals. Is the sight of navy, camel and grey shades enough to send your sartorial heartbeat into overdrive? You’re not alone, but it’s good to shake things up with a twist of something bright every now and then, especially as autumn approaches. This season’s key hue to amp up that failsafe colour palette? Red, in all its unapologetically bright, bold glory

Red frill snakeskin midi dress, £39; Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

Pad dress, £35; Seasalt, Mumbles

Red shirt, £12; Primark, Swansea and Parc Trostre

Designed for Comfort flatform lianne sandals, £45; John Lewis, Cardiff

Red fabric beaded hoop earrings, £5.99; New Look, Swansea

Red animal twist knot dress, £29; JD Williams

Buckle box worker patent red boots, £25; George at Asda, Morriston

Sallie barely there heel sandals, £29; Miss Selfridge, Swansea

Long red dress, £12,99; TK Maxx, Parc Morfa

Red pointed toe slingbacks, £18; Miss Selfridge, Parc Fforestfach

Louison red earrings; £99, Swarovski

SWANSEA LIFE 19

FASHION

Maxi dress, £29.99; Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

Tu shoe, £16; Sainsb ury’s, Swansea

9ct White Gold Pea rl Diamond & Sapphire Vintage Earrings, £179; H Samuel, Swansea

the 21 high street hits you need to know about this month...

Could it be? Could it really be? Without wi shing to jinx it, it seems the summer su n is not showing any sig n of going away just yet! So before yo u get those autumn co ats out of storage and, tentatively, stash away those swimsuits , we’ve been busy picking the treasure fro m the trash for the m onth ahead

Embroidered blo use, £14; Matalan, Swan sea

Meldon double stra p sandals, £34; Fat Face, Mumbles

Boxy waist bag, £14; George at Asda , Morriston

Oasis spot ruffle mini skirt, £29

Brass floral lea f earrings, £15; National Trust shop, Rhossili

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Hobbs Alessandra top, navy, £79

Rust teddy bag, £14; Matalan, Swan sea

Joanna Hope sequin disc cami, £55; JD Williams

Yellow ‘Darla’ cou rt shoes, £30; Dorothy Perkins, Sw ansea

Antiqued brass Sw arovski earrings, £14.99; TK Maxx, Par c Morfa

Slouchy darted jeans, £29.99; Zara, Swansea

Wrap shoulder dress; from a range at Marks and Spencer, Swansea and Parc Trostre

Yellow espadrille tra iners, £14; Matalan, Cwmdu

Grace slingback, £1 39; Hobbs

Floral double layer top, £35; Laura Ashley, Swansea

Button spot lightw eight cross body, £38; Kath Kid ston, Cardiff

Pearly queen print high neck blouse, £45; Monso on, Swansea

J by Jasper Co nran - Olivia dr um bag, £45; Debenham s, Swansea

Collection top gap sling, £39.50; Marks and Spence r, Swansea

SWANSEA LIFE 21

FASHION

Festival sequin bag, £16; F&F at TescoExtra, Llansamlet

Skip Hop Zoo bee children’s backpack, £20; John Lewis, Cardiff

Spiderman backpack, £7.99; ShoeZone, Swansea

Unicorn backpack, £30, Paperchase, Parc Morfa

BACK TO SCHOOL

BACKPACKS MadMax spiketux Rex backpack, £45; Cuckooland.com

Peter Slee rounds up new-season bags just in time for the start of the new school term

Nordhug sulpher bag, £48

Scout backpack, £59.95; White Stuff, Mumbles

Kids’ Princess backpack, £16; Marks and Spencer, Swansea.

Judy bag, £35; Accessorize, Swansea

RFID backpack, £70; National Trust Shop, Rhossili

Sports backpack, £29.99; Superdry, Swansea

Canvas backpack, £44; TK Maxx, Swansea

Leopard-print sports backpack, £4; Tu at Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Yellow roll top clip backpack, £25; River Island, Swansea

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REVITALISE YOURSELF Pampering of the highest order

Hair ServiceS Every service is important, whatever it maybe... and we look forward to a consultation before every service, in order to discuss your requirements and what can be achieved. Communication is paramount. We believe in excellent quality hair services. We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service, along with expert hair care knowledge and internationally renowned products.

Wedding ServiceS

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Our wedding team offer a flexible and individualised service. The bridal party can be accommodated at our salon or at a prearranged venue of choice. Early Salon openings and champagne breakfast are available on request. Wedding hair consultations and trials are recommended to ensure we achieve your dream look and efficient planning for your big day.

All your colouring needs are catered for, whether it be Blonde, Red or Brunette, covering grey, blending grey, bold statement colours or natural looking enhancements. Just a chat with your stylist can determine what you want and what can be achievedthe world of colour is yours to explore.

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MEDICAL COSMETIC CLINIC

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TOPNOTCH HAS MOVED

Topnotch Hair Salon is

celebrating 35 years in business this month with a move to brand new premises in Swansea’s Oxford Street from nearby Brynymor Road. Located on the corner behind Joe’s Ice Cream Parlour, the doors are now open to a bigger, brighter and more spacious new salon! With its vibrant lime and pink colour scheme, there is always a great atmosphere. The new premises offers easier access for customers and better parking nearby - plus a bus stop is just across the road. With 42 years experience in hairdressing, Julie started her first business at

Bernard Street in the Uplands before moving to Ysgol Street in Port Tennant. From there she moved to Mansel Street and then to Brynymor Road. The salon owner runs the successful business with her daughter Kayleigh. They have enjoyed working together as a team and have built up a fantastic client base due to the excellent service they provide to all their customers. Constantly looking to improve on their service, Topnotch also caters for ladies that wear a hijab and has added a private room where they can relax and have their hair done in total privacy. There is also a toy play area for children.

“We never stand still and are always striving to get to the next level,” said Julie. “The growth of the business over the years is all down to our clients - if you keep your clients happy and give them the best customer service then it helps for a happy business.” Julie and Kayleigh would like to extend a huge thank you for all the support and business from their clients over the past 35 years and appreciate their clients’ continuing support. The salon also stocks some of the finest hair care products such as Morroccan Oil, Colour Wow and It’s a 10, and caters for men as well as ladies. Julie, Kayleigh and the team welcome all existing and new customers to the salon for an enjoyable experience.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY Open Tuesday - Saturday 116 Oxford Street, Swansea, SA1 3JW (Behind Joe’s Ice Cream)

Tel: 01792 468777 or 07789 936621

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

OF THE BEST BOOKS FOR A MID-YEAR HEALTH-KICK Give your September season an overhaul with these buzzy wellness tomes, says Liz Connor

We rarely enjoy good weather in the UK, so when it’s unusually hot outside, it can be difficult to maintain your good intentions to live a healthy lifestyle. From the pressure to make the most of any fleeting sunshine to the lure of pub gardens, summer can easily throw your gym schedule and meal-prep plans off track - and as for early nights? Forget it. But as September rolls around, this is the perfect time to put the hangovers on ice and get your nose stuck in a book to inspire a mid-year health kick. Whether you’re interested in nutrition, 28 SWANSEA LIFE

looking for new healthy dinner recipes or simply want to stay a step ahead of your wellness-obsessed friends, here are six of the best titles to add to your bedside table right now... Is Butter a Carb? by Rosie Saunt and Helen West (£14.99, Little Brown Book Group) Ever since the ‘clean eating’ movement fooled us into fearing a vast array of foods, a new genre of literature has emerged to counteract some of the most damaging myths that still prevail. One of the latest is this evidence-based nutrition tome

from Rooted Project founders Rosie Staunt and Helen West, two dietitians on a mission to fight against the sheer volume of unsubstantiated food ‘facts’ floating around on the internet. Covering everything from fad diets to the modern panic around gluten, the pair deep-dive into the pseudoscience that surrounds food, and counteract it with the latest clear and easy-to-digest scientific research on various points of contention. A perfect bedtime read for anyone who feels overwhelmed by the diet industry and its many conflicting ‘rules’.

heading into the weights room at your local gym can be pretty daunting. That’s where Laura Hoggins comes in. After teaching hundreds of women how to deadlift, overhead press and upright row at some of London’s top gyms, the strength and conditioning trainer has condensed her years of knowledge and experience into one handy book. From perfecting your form to building a stronger physique, this micro-manual is a great introduction to the benefits and joys of pumping iron.

A Monk’s Guide To Happiness: Meditation In The 21st century by Gelong Thubten (Yellow Kite, £12.99) Before he became a Buddhist monk, Gelong Thubten was - perhaps rather surprisingly - a hard-partying actor in New York, who found his fast-living lifestyle was making him very unhappy. Desperate to find a solution, Thubten did a 360 on his life plan and travelled to Kagyu Samye Ling Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist centre in Scotland, to learn how meditation could help heal his mind. Since then, he’s taught everyone from Ruby Wax to Benedict Cumberbatch the ancient practice, and has spent years pondering the secrets to living a happy life. In this optimistic book, he sets out some practical methods for meditating (even if you’re a total sceptic), as well as how you can incorporate the Eastern practice into a busy, working lifestyle.

Lift Yourself: A Training Guide To Getting Fit And Feeling Strong For Life by Laura Hoggins (£14.99, Penguin Life) More women than ever are discovering the physical and mental benefits of weight training, but if you’ve never so much as picked up a dumbbell before,

In Praise Of Walking: The New Science Of How We Walk And Why It’s Good For Us by Shane O’Mara (£16.99, Vintage Publishing) Many of us walk every day, but how often do you take a moment to appreciate the small miracle that is putting one foot in front of the other? In this love letter to walking, neuroscientist Shane O’Mara takes a close look at its benefits for our bodies and minds, as well as the unique advantage it has given humans as a species. Enabling us to spread out from Africa, walking, O’Mara says, has not just helped us to survive - it has allowed us to thrive.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply like to get out and do the school run on foot, this book will make you appreciate the physical, mental and societal benefits of getting outdoors on two feet.

Pinch Of Nom by Kate Allinson and Kay Featherstone (£20, Pan Macmillan) Chefs Featherstone and Allinson became an internet sensation when they started the Pinch of Nom Facebook page back in 2016. Originally intended as a way to share slow-calorie recipes with other slimmers, the concept blew up and they’re now the UK’s biggest food blog, with over 1.5 million followers and counting. Their first cookbook sold more than 210,000 copies in just three days after its release. The duo have gathered together some of their favourite guilt-free, homestyle recipes from over the years (there are more than 100 featured), that don’t mean missing out on all the good stuff. Think Cumberland pie, Mexican chilli beef and – our fave – comforting Indian ‘fakeaways’.

The Vagina Bible: The Vulva and Vagina - Separating The Myth From The Medicine by Dr Jen Gunter (Out August 27, Little Brown Book Group, £14.99) Does eating sugar cause yeast infections? Does pubic hair have a function? What’s the truth about the HPV vaccine? These are some of the pertinent questions obstetrician Jen Gunter sets out to answer in this no-nonsense guide to women’s health. Covering everything from your reproductive system to the vaginal microbiome, Dr Gunter has created a genuinely compelling resource on the female anatomy that’s a refreshing read. She even takes a look at some of the many vaginal wellness trends floating around at the moment, like vaginal steaming and jade eggs (yep, she’s Gwyneth Paltrow’s number one critic), and explores whether they actually have any plausible benefits to your downstairs area.

5 SWANSEA LIFE 29

HAIR & BEAUTY

REAL WOMEN, WINNING LOOKS W ITH

C H R I S

H O W E L LS

Swansea-based international make-up artist and winner of the National Federation of Hairdressing’s Welsh Make-up Artist of the Year award, Chris Howells, gives a Swansea woman a new seasonal look for September. ryn is a beautiful 17-year-old and an accomplished make-up artist in her own right. She reached out to me recently to create a showstopping modern glow-up with flawless skin. Eryn has gorgeous skin and she knows how to look after it.

before

Starting with Nuxe Huille Prodigieuse oil, I massaged this lightly into Eryn’s skin, following with Embryolisse Lait crème concentrate. I then applied Then finishing with a vibrant purple a single pump of Michelle Collins tone I highlighted the ‘ball’ of the eye Pellum Vero Eye Serum to the orbital for a modern spotlight look. Taking bone. This really helps to de-puff, Eylure’s brow gel, I groomed the reduce dark circles and hydrate the brows up and out and using NYX brow delicate eye area. Touch-In-Sol Feels sculpt pencil . I filled in any sparse Like Honeymoon skin base was my areas to create a fabulous fluffy brow. go-to to help create this look. Using the Walford-Richards-Designs Flat Taking Eylure’s double ended brow Topped Foundation Brush (which also finishing pencil, I used the shimmery happens to be Janet Jackson’s side to highlight under the go-to foundation brush), brow, along the bone and and Kosas cosmetics The Complete softly blending it with the Tinted Oil in shade 5.5, Brush Collection Smudge Brush. Taking buffing into the skin available from the Crease Brush and creating a flawless www.walfordrichards mixing the black and complexion. designs.co.uk purple on the back of use code chris20 for my hand I applied this Then, I used the tight to the bottom lash Concealer Brush site wide line blending really well and NYX Can’t Stop and using an Urban Decay Won’t Stop concealer to Noir black liner along the lower the under-eye area and any slight imperfections. Using the Angled waterline too. Then Lash Unlimited in No8 lashes were applied finishing Contour Brush and Kosas Cosmetics Eryn’s eyes. highlight/blush duo in Velvet Melon I applied the cheek colour to the apples On the lips I used Bite Beauty Lip of the cheeks and blended the edges Liner in #94 and Amouse Bouche lip seamlessly. This colour really gives a paint applying lip gloss in Pink Pearl healthy glow. to the lip giving a pop of lusciousness. Then, using the cream Taking Laura Mercier Translucent highlight from the Powder, I set Eryn’s complexion using a gentle press and roll motion with the Blush Duo and the Angled Powder Brush, superbly soft Powder Brush. I applied this to the I applied Urban Decay Primer Potion high points of the as a base on the eye lids and then face, the cheekbones, using the Morphe 35V eye palette bridge of the nose I applied a deep purple with the all as well as a little on over eye brush,creating a wide look the forehead and concentrating the colour on the chin to enhance the lid and blending out. Then, taking illumination. the eye finishing brush, I applied a I used Tamara Eccleston’s pink tone to the outer edges of the range of SHOW hair shadow as a transition tone. Taking the products to create the black tone shadow and the smudge gorgeous swept back brush I enhanced the socket area by high pony on Eryn. deepening the colour into the crease.

20% off

30 SWANSEA LIFE

 Photography by James Richards  Makeup and Skincare by Chris Howells, Available for all your makeup needs in South Wales  chrishowells_uk@yahoo.co.uk

The only salon in Swansea to be placed in the top 3 of the Swansea Life Award for the SEVENTH year running

Beauty Category

Thank you to everyone who voted for us, we really appreciate it.

OTHER AWARDS

SWANSEA LIFE AWARD Winner 2013, 2017 & 2018 SWANSEA LIFE AWARD BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2018. SWANSEA LIFE AWARD runner up in 2014, 2015 & 2016 CHROMOGENEX - Centre of Excellence GOOD SALON GUIDE - 5* rating 2015 - 2019 PHOREST - 5* Customer Experience Awards 2015 - 2019 NATIONAL WELSH HAIR AND BEAUTY AWARDS (Best Tanning Salon) top 3 2016 WBTA - Certificate of Endeavour (Training Students) 2013 Beauty Opening Times: Mon - 9am - 9pm | Tue - 9am - 9pm Wed - 9am - 9pm | Thu - 9am - 9pm | Fri - 9am - 9pm | Sat - 9am - 5pm Sunbed Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9am -9pm | Saturday - 9am -5pm

01792 775558 www.swanseasunlounge.co.uk

Family run business. Est. 2000

facebook.com/MorristonSunLounge 52 Woodfield Street, Morriston, Swansea SA6 8BW

HAIR & BEAUTY

Makeover! W ITH

L ARA

JOHNSON

Stylist and Mumbles salon owner Lara Johnson shares her best insider tips in her monthly column

ter af

C o l o ur stateme n t Model: Katie Jones Occupation: Design professional

katie says... I felt my hair was flat and needed some more oomph. I didn’t want it cut, but liked the idea of some strength in the colour. I have an important evening do approaching and want my hair up, something beautiful but edgy at the same time. I’m delighted with what the team did, they worked to enhance my natural colour and now my hair looks so healthy. The dressing was perfect, I particularly loved the intricate plait. Thanks team!

Lara Johnson Lifestyle says... Katie has beautiful thick hair, but it was feeling a little dry and lifeless. We didn’t feel that a complete change in the cut was the right approach, so we looked more towards treating the hair and enhancing the colour. We worked right through Katie’s bullhead with very fine sections that were very close to the natural colour, it makes the hair look like its being caught in the sunlight all of the time! We then treated Katie to our Wellaplex bond service, reconstructing the hairs bonds making it lustrous and healthy. The next stage was the dressing. Katie has great style so we went for more of an ethereal look that complimented her look. B e f o re ...

32 SWANSEA LIFE

...

Step by step... Plaited C rown The plaited crown is an elegant hairstyle that gives a look of simplicity from the front but has added interest from the back. It is perfect for getting your hair out of the way on a hot day. This low volume look works perfectly for those with thicker hair, if your hair is fine you can add hair pieces into the plait and braid them in. It gives a bohemian effect that’s perfect for festivals or weddings. Finish by putting some small flowers into the plait. A bonus is that if you leave it in then shake it out the following day your hair will be full of soft waves. Difficulty level? Easy Ideal hair length? Long Assistance needed? No What you need? • Comb • Hair bands • Hair grips or pins • Medium-hold hairspray

B ef o re ...

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Pace your hair into your chosen parting. Start loosely, plaiting a couple of inches in from the hair line.

Continue the plait in large sections. If your hair is fine gently back comb each section to give it a bit more volume. Continue to the end of the hair and secure with a small band.

Repeat on the other side.

Step 4 Loosen and slightly pull out the plait to give it a bit more width. Lightly spray with a

medium-hold hairspray and then bring up the opposite side. Secure each end with a grip and tuck any loose ends away into the plait against the scalp.

SWANSEA LIFE 33

HAIR & BEAUTY

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A SPRAY MAKES A quick spritz can make all the difference to your complexion, says Katie Wright Good for more than just cooling you down on a hot day, facial mists have come a long way, and now there’s a formula for every skin concern.

“Our mists are formulated with super small molecular weight hyaluronic acids and marine ferments, meaning they deliver hydration to the deeper layers of the skin.”

These active-packed atomised liquids offer an extra dose of hydration in a fine spray that sinks into the skin quickly, without leaving any residue - no wonder they’re such a crucial part of the fabled 12-step Korean skin care routine.

Depending on the ingredients, a mist can help tackle everything from redness and puffiness, to a lacklustre complexion.

“A mist is, of course, much lighter than a cream, and can be used throughout the day to top-up hydration levels,” says Seed to Skin founder Jeanette Thottrup. 34 SWANSEA LIFE

“Look for a product that does what you actually want it to do,” Thottrup advises. “I feel it’s waste of time to spray anything in the face that does not help the skin.” But how and when should a mist be used? “For maximum benefits, use a mist under make-up – I use mine after cleansing the

face, before my moisturiser,” Thottrup says. “In principle, a mist can be used over makeup too, and will still deliver hydration in this way, but if you want to get the most from all the actives, then it is better to spray on bare skin.” Close your eyes and hold the bottle about 20cm from your face as you spray a few pumps in a circular motion, allowing the tiny droplets to sink in, before applying your serum or face cream. You may find you actually need less moisturiser, because your skin is already saturated with all that misty goodness.

So, which mist is best? Here are seven highly-rated buys for whatever your skin concern... 1. Only Good The Hydrator mist and facial toner, £9.99, Holland and Barrett Best for: Soothing redness Caught the sun? This chamomile-infused spritz from New Zealand clean beauty brand Only Good will soothe and calm parched skin – especially if you keep it in the fridge. 2. Soleil Toujours Organic Set + Protect micro mist SPF30, £34, Cult Beauty Best for: Extra sun protection The fact is, there’s no such thing as a true ‘once a day’ sunblock. So, if you want to top-up on sun protection without ruining your make-up, a mist is the answer. This ultra-fine organic formula is available in SPF 30 and 50. 3. James Read H2O tan mist face, £20 Best for: Topping up your tan Whether real or fake, a tan fades faster on your face than on your body. Fight the fade with this clear gradual tanning mist, which also contains rose water and skin-soothing vitamins. 4. Briogeo Sea Goddess shimmer mist, £21.50, Cult Beauty Best for: Subtle shimmer Happy with your tan, but looking for a little extra sparkle? This multi-use spray from

Briogeo is shot through with silver-blue particles, to give your complexion a subtle mermaid-like glow. 5. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra 8 daily soothing hydrating concentrate, £13, Escentual Best for: Sensitive skin Combining La Roche-Posay’s famed thermal water with just eight other ingredients – including allantoin, which soothes irritation – this ultra-light, fragrance-free mist is ideal for those with sensitive skin. 6. Aman Skincare Grounding Desert dew face mist, £75 Best for: Reducing puffiness Powered by damask rose petals and sandalwood (a natural anti-inflammatory), this luxury mist also contains homeopathic silver, known to calm skin and reduce puffiness. 7. Balance Me Hyaluronic plumping mist, £16, Beauty Flash Best for: The frequent flyer Air travel can leave your skin feeling extremely dehydrated, but regular blasts with a mini mist can negate the effects of a long haul flight. Don’t take off without this hyaluronic acid and chamomile-infused spritz in your cabin bag.

7 SWANSEA LIFE 35

HEALTH & WELLBEING

g n i z a m A s t i f e n e b h t l a e h s e i r r e of b From strawberries to blueberries, Liz Connor hears why berries are nutritional powerhouses that deserve some space in your fridge Stir them into yogurt, dust them with cinnamon or eat them straight from the punnet – nothing beats tucking into a bowl of berries on a hot summer’s day. And beyond tasting great, the nation’s favourite berries have a lot going on in the nutrition stakes too. Packed with disease-fighting antioxidants, digestion-aiding fibre and several vitamins and minerals, consumed regularly as part of an overall balanced diet, these small wonders can do a lot to support our general health. We asked nutritionists to talk us through some of the key health benefits of tucking into fresh berries...

1. Blueberries These little blue fruits (or deep purple, depending who you’re asking) grow in bushes that are native to North America and can add an instantly Instagrammable edge to a bowl of porridge - but there’s way more to blueberries than their much-loved aesthetic. “Blueberries are one of the most nutrient-dense berries going,” says nutritionist Dr Emma Derbyshire, speaking on behalf of Love Fresh Berries (lovefreshberries. co.uk). “They contain fibre, vitamin C, vitamin K and manganese, and they also have one of the highest levels of antioxidants – specifically anthocyanins.” If you’re in need of a refresher, antioxidant-rich foods are important to help protect your cells against free radicals – harmful molecules produced from things like pollution, sunlight, smoke and alcohol.

36 SWANSEA LIFE

“In recent years, there has also been a growing body of science [suggesting] that berries could help to offset cardiovascular diseases and help to preserve heart health,” says Derbyshire, who adds that blueberries may also help improve mood and aspects of cognitive function too. She advises trying to pack in an 80g serving of blueberries (four heaped tablespoons) per day, which counts as one portion of your five-a-day.

2. Strawberries The humble garden strawberry has plenty going for it. Aside from its vibrant colour, juicy texture and naturally sweet taste, Derbyshire explains that these heart-shaped fruits provide a pretty potent hit of vitamin C. “In fact, they contain more vitamin C than oranges,” she says. “Eating just seven strawberries provides the recommended daily amount of vitamin C, which is important for the normal function of the immune system, along with reducing tiredness and fatigue.”

As well as helping you to bounce out of bed when the alarm goes off in the morning, strawberries have other great benefits too. “They also provide vitamin K, manganese, folic acid, potassium, riboflavin, vitamin B5, B6, copper, magnesium, fibre and phytonutrients,” says Derbyshire, “so they really do make the perfect healthy snack.”

3. Raspberries Also known as ‘Rubus idaeus’, the raspberry is a perennial fruit that belongs to the same botanical family as the rose and the blackberry. They grow on thick, leafy bushes with woody stems, and are delicious either on their own or turned into a sweet dessert coulis. “Raspberries are full of nutrients and antioxidants,” says Derbyshire. “Just one cup of raspberries contains 12% of your recommended daily allowance of vitamin K, which is important for supporting healthy bones.” She adds that studies have indicated that regularly eating raspberries could help prevent and manage type 2 diabetes, by helping to reduce glucose levels after consumption. “Ranked near the top of all fruits for antioxidant strength, raspberries are particularly rich in ellagic acid, quercetin and anthocyanins – all powerful antioxidants which have proven health benefits and help protect the body against disease.”

4. Blackberries Often found growing in hedgerows, blackberries are an aggregate fruit – which means they’re composed of several small juice-filled drupelets. They’re usually eaten straight from the hand, but there are loads of inventive ways you can add them into recipes – like whizzing them into a smoothie, mashing them to produce jam, or even stirring them into a spinach and almond salad. “Blackberries contain a wide range of nutrients, including vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, potassium and magnesium, as well as fibre and other plant nutrients that have numerous health benefits,” says nutritionist Anita Bean. She explains that blackberries are notable for their flavonoid content, the phytonutrients that give berries their deep colour.

Flavonoids have powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can play a role in supporting the immune system, and studies have found that regularly eating foods that are rich in them can significantly reduce your chances of catching coughs and colds. Blackberries may also help keep your brain young. “A study in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry found that blackberry extract may provide a protective effect on brain, improve memory, learning and general brain function, as well as slowing the decline in age-related memory loss,” says Bean. The good news is, just 10 blackberries will count towards one of your five-a-day, and they also secretly make one of the best post-workout snacks – as flavonoids can also play an important role in performance and recovery. “Studies suggest these compounds help reduce muscle soreness, muscle damage and inflammation after intense exercise, as well as speed up muscle recovery,” Derbyshire says. So, next time you’re heading for a spin class? Pack some in your gym bag.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

ASK

DR. CHARLOTTE

Feeling hot, hot, hot… This unusually hot spell has naturally led to the theme for this month’s article on a few conditions that can make one feel “hot” Menopausal hot flushes Hot flushes are a common feature of the menopause and peri-menopause. Some lucky ladies sail through the menopause without difficulty, but others have some symptoms which can really affect their quality of life and wellbeing. One of the most effective treatments for menopausal hot flushes (and other menopausal symptoms) is hormone replacement therapy. All ladies who have not had their womb/uterus removed need to have both oestrogen and progesterone - this is because if you are just given oestrogen then there is the potential that this could cause a build up of the lining of the womb which could then turn cancerous. It can be given in a variety of different ways singly or in combination (sometimes with the addition of testosterone replacement), thus the key is getting the right treatment for you.

This month Sketty GP and Swansea Life doctor Charlotte Jones, speaks about hot flushes

As with all medications there are risks as well as benefits to treatment, but personally I have seen so many ladies menopausal symptoms transformed with HRT. Therefore, it is important that you discuss this with a healthcare professional to ensure you are fully informed of the risks and benefits and are suitable for HRT should you choose to have it. It is advisable to always have the lowest dose that controls your symptoms and have annual checks. If your preparation isn’t suiting you or controlling your symptoms, don’t just grin and bear it – see or speak to your GP. If you are not suitable for HRT treatment or don’t wish to take hormonal treatment or cannot tolerate HRT, do not despair as there are alternatives. Alternatives available on prescription include: some types of antidepressants, gabapentin, clonidine and topical vaginal moisturisers. If you are not keen to take a prescription-only medication to help with your symptoms there are a variety of herbal/complimentary treatments that have been purported to be of use (eg. St John’s Wort, black cohawsh, evening primrose/

38 swansealife.co.uk

starflower oil, red ginseng, red clover, vitamin E, phyto-oestrogens such as soya containing foods, Donq Quang, acupuncture etc). However, there is not a substantive evidence base on the benefits and risks of some of these preparations (particularly on breast and wombs), so it is always important to remember that they are unregulated and quality/content cannot be guaranteed in the same way as licensed prescribed medication. Therefore, if you wish to try these, I think it is important to check with your pharmacist/GP first that it is safe to do so.

Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland at the front of your neck which controls your body’s metabolism becomes overactive and produces lots of thyroxine, which can then cause a variety of symptoms including: sweating, heat sensitivity, fast/irregular pulse rate, weight loss, fatigue, eye symptoms (eg. double vision, bulging eyes, sore eyes), mental health problems (eg. anxiety, irritability, depression), problems sleeping, trembling, pregnancy complications etc. The overactive thyroid gland can become swollen and cause pressure on the neck (ie. voice box, trachea and gullet) potentially causing a hoarse voice, difficulty with breathing, coughing and swallowing problems. Causes include the auto-immune condition Grave’s disease, thyroid nodules and some medications (eg. amiodarone). If you think you may have an overactive thyroid then see or speak to your GP who will organise for you to have appropriate examination and blood tests. If hyperthyroidism is confirmed then you will usually be referred to a consultant endocrinologist. Treatments can include medication or radioactive iodine to stop over production of thyroid hormones or surgery. Where can I find out more? www.thyroiduk.org.uk and www.btf-thyroid.org and www.nhs.uk have excellent advice.

SANCTA MARIA HOSPITAL

Make your transformation. The experienced team of cosmetics consultants at Sancta Maria Hospital offer a wide range of treatments from Breast Augmentation Face Lifts Liposuction Tummy Tuck Start your journey today by booking a consultation Visit www.hmtsanctamaria.org or call 01792 479 040 Sancta Maria Hospital. Care You Can Trust.

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GORSEINON EYE CENTRE FOCUSED ON KEEPING EVERYONE IN THE PICTURE AS IT INCREASES ITS RANGE G

ORSEINON Eye Centre has expanded its range to include popular designer brands as it continues to drive its business forward three years after new owners took over.

Gorseinon Eye Centre has expanded its range to include popular designer brands as it continues to drive its business forward three years after new owners took over. It was successfully run as Bater Opticians, and latterly Gorseinon Eye Centre, for 30 years before becoming a new a family-run operation in 2016. At the helm these days are couples Helen and Jeremy Silverberg and Mandy and David Griffiths, with a combined experience of more than 125 years in the industry. The co-directors are supported by staff familiar to their loyal customers and who

themselves have 60 years of service behind them at the High Street premises. Investment in new equipment has helped with the modernisation process, and there has been a further boost with the recent introduction of a new range of sought after Moleskine frames.

SPECIALIST SERVICE PART OF THE OFFER “We offer a friendly service, treating all our patients as individuals,” said Mr Griffiths. “Since taking over we have invested in new equipment, such as OCT (optical coherence tomography.”

The non-invasive imaging test uses light waves to take cross-section pictures of the retina, giving the optometrist much greater detail than simple retinal photography and allowing even the subtlest of changes in the retina to show up. The technique is particularly useful for the early detection of glaucoma and macular degeneration. “We offer a comprehensive range of services, including Eye Health Examination Wales (EHEW),” said Mr Griffiths. “This examination, which is unique to Wales, is available to patients who have acute eye problems, and those who would find sight loss particularly difficult, as well as those who are at increased risk of developing sight-threatening conditions due to ethnicity. All our optometrists are accredited to perform the EHEW examination.”

One of Mr Griffiths’ roles is to dispense and fit contact lenses, an area where he has over 30 years experience. He offers anything from standard lenses through to specialist mini scleral lenses for keratoconus and myopia control to help stop the progression of myopia. He is also accredited in carrying out visual stress assessments, the condition manifesting itself in issues like misreading words or a page appearing to flash or flicker. Research suggests that up to 20% of the population experience difficulty or discomfort when viewing certain patterns which can include a page of print. The centre has screening software and solutions to address these issues.

DESIGNER FRAMES AND A NEWCOMER TO BOOT Frames to suit all budgets can be found instore, with designer names such as Radley, Joules, O’Neill, William Morris, CAT, and the new range of Moleskine frames.

as functional, ultra thin and extremely lightweight. They feature uniquely designed temples and hinges, and are manufactured in the finest materials available. There is also a nice touch to the selection of accessories and cases, featuring the signature ‘in case of loss’ notice to complete the collection. The practice itself has benefited from an upgrade both inside and outside, making the whole process of receiving eye care more attractive. “We are committed to keeping our knowledge as up to date as possible, to enhance our patient care,” said Mr Griffiths. “Come in and see us, it’s free to look and we are very friendly.”

The stylish, lightweight frames are a natural addition to the Moleskine ecosystem of analogue and digital tools that support everyday life on the move. The collection includes reading glasses, optical frames and sunglasses, all with a clean yet distinctive design. There are many plus points. They are naturally elegant and innovative, as well

Gorseinon Eye Centre, 71 High Street, Gorseinon, Swansea, SA4 4BP T: 01792 892906 | E: vision@gorseinoneyecentre.co.uk www.gorseinoneyecentre.co.uk |

Gorseinon Eye Centre

MONDAY NEATH The Bridge Church (opposite Zoars Ark) 9am, 11am & 1pm, Tel: Donna 07960 047037 CIMLA St Peters & St Pauls Church Cimla Road 4.30pm Tel: Arlene 07543 552857 PORT TALbOT Elim Pentecostal Dalton Road 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Helen 07735 364741 TUESDAY AbERAVON St Pauls Centre Gerald Street 7.30am, 9.30am & 11.30am Tel: Trisha 07791 897826 AbERDULAIS Ynysygerwn Cricket Club 9.30am & 11.30am Tel: Donna 07960 047037

WAUNCEIRCH Owain Glyndwr Community Centre Dwr-Y-Felin Road 5pm & 7pm Tel: Deltrice 07515 550049 SEVEN SISTERS Severn Sisters RFC Dulais Road, SA10 9EL 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Jackie 07792 582663 bRITON FERRY Jerusalem Baptist Church Neath Road 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Linda 07813 336246 PORT TALbOT Age Cymru Centre (Behind Tesco petrol station) 3.30pm & 5.30pm Tel: Arlene 07543 552857 THURSDAY CADOXTON Community Centre Cwmbach Road 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Jasmine 07704 994100

NEATH F.A.N. Maes y Ffynnon Wellfield Avenue RESOLVEN 5.30pm St Davids Church Hall Tel: Helen 07735 364741 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Kelly 07968 944214 AbERAVON St Pauls Centre, Gerald Street 5.30pm Tel: Trisha 07791 897826 SKEWEN New Road Methodist Church 5.30pm Tel: Tanya 07805 861582 TAIbACH Taibach Community Centre Duke Street 6.00pm Tel: Julie 07402 413441 WEDNESDAY CIMLA Community Centre Afan Valley Rd, Cimla, SA11 3AZ 9am Tel: Sian 07741 401563

SKEWEN St Marys Church Community Centre Compton Road 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Tanya 07805 861582 PORT TALbOT NSA Community Centre Dalton Road 3.30pm, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Pam 07896 098672 bAGLAN Baglan Community Church 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Rhian 07814 269195 CYMMER Cymer Afan Primary Margam Street, Margam 4.30pm Tel: Linda 07813 336246

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES (Self employed) for past and present members in the Neath Port Talbot area. Contact Kurtis for details on 07939 409617

MARGAM Margam Community Centre Bertha Road 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Cath 07536 117838 FRIDAY PORT TALBOT Cwmafan Library Depot Road, Cwmafan 5.30pm Tel: Nina 07773 686493 MARGAM Margam Community Centre Bertha Road 7:30am & 9.30am Tel: Cath 07536 117838 SATURDAY PORT TALbOT Community Centre Michna Street 9.30am Tel: Julie 07402 413441 NEATH Bryn Coch Community Centre 163 Main Road 9.30am Tel: Deltrice 07515 550049 NEATH St Catherines Church Hall School Road 7.30am, 9.30am & 11.30am Tel: Kelly 07968 944214 bAGLAN Baglan Community Church 8am & 10am Tel: Rhian 07814 269195

MONDAY LLANSAMLET Mercure Hotel Swansea Enterprise Park Llansamlet, SA7 9EG 9.30am & 11.30am Tel: Sam 07949 476411

SKETTY Sketty Primary School Llwyn Mawr Close Sketty, SA2 9HJ 7:30pm Tel: Sarah 07826 666914

TUESDAY RHOS Rhos Community Centre LANDORE Montanna Park Community Centre, Plas Road, MarchHywel, Montanna Place Landore, SA1 2QB Swansea, SA8 3HD 9:00am 9.30am Tel: Allison 07890 293931 Tel: Sharon 07495 747268 LLANSAMLET Mercure Hotel Swansea Enterprise Park Llansamlet, SA7 9EG 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pm Tel: Tyler 07528 218180 YSTALYFERA St Davids Church Hall Gurnos Road, SA9 2HY 9:30am & 11:30am Tel: Gemma 07894 327584 KILLAY St Hilary’s Church 462 Gower Road Killay 9.30am & 11.30am Tel: Susan 07813 316739 COCKETT The Side of St Peter’s Church Cockett, SA2 0FW 3.30pm, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Kathryn 07815 989756 YSTALYFERA St Davids Church Hall Gurnos Road, SA9 2HY 4pm & 6pm Tel: Gemma 07894 327584 PONTARDAWE Mount Elim Church, Brecon Road, Pontardawe, SA8 4PD 5.30pm Tel: Denise 07432 590072 WEST CROSS Linden Church Elms Grove Road West Cross, SA3 5LD 5:30pm Tel: Laura 07969 288997

TOWNHILL Gors Community Centre Heol Y Gors Townhill, SA1 6RY 4:30pm & 6:30pm Tel: Amanda 07815 989756 WATERFRONT COMMUNITY CHURCH Swansea SA1 8QY 5:00pm & 7:00pm Tel: Nicola 07977 517434

ALLTWEN St Johns Church Gwyn Street, Alltwen SA8 3AJ 3.30pm & 5.30pm Tel: Sharon 07495 747268 LLANGYFELACH Church Hall, Swansea Road Llangyfelach SA5 7JQ 4:30pm & 6:30pm Tel: Amanda 07815 989756 CLYDACH Clydach Community Hall Vardre Road Clydach, SA6 5LP 5pm Tel: Julie 07857 853807

KILLAY Siloam Baptist Church Goetre Fach Road Killay SA2 7SG 3.30pm, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Joanna 07787 574328

FRIDAY UPLANDS Pantygwydwr Baptist Church MUMbLES Ernald Place Uplands SA2 0HN Tabernacle URC Church Newton Road, Mumbles, SA3 4AR 9:30am Tel: Alison 07890 293931 7:30pm Tel: Laura 07969 288997

THURSDAY bIRCHGROVE TRALLWN Birchgrove Community Centre Trallwn Community Centre Lon Gwesyn Birchgrove, SA7 9LD Bethal Road, Llansamlet SA7 9QT 9.30am 5.00pm & 7.00pm Tel: Susan 07813 316739 Tel: Kathryn 07815 989756 SWANSEA SKETTY PARK & SOCIAL CLUb St. David’s Church Hall Aneurin Way, Sketty, SA2 8NP St. David’s Square (by Iceland) 7:30pm Swansea City Centre SA1 3NG Tel: Melanie 07974 774070 11am & 1pm AbERCRAVE Tel: Christine 01792 701804 Abercrave Rugby Club COCKETT Heol Rheolau, Abercrave The Side of St Peters Church Swansea, SA9 1XH Cockett SA2 0FW 5.30pm 5pm & 7pm Tel: Jacqui 07792 582663 Tel: Alison 07890 293931 WAUNARLWYDD YSTRADGYNLAIS Waunarlwydd Community Centre Victoria Road, Swansea SA5 4SY Glanrhyd Coronation Club Glannant Ystradgynlais SA9 1BG Tuesday 6:30pm 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Sam 07854 952777 Tel: Nicola 07718 053121 WEDNESDAY bIRCHGROVE UPLANDS Birchgrove Community Centre Pantygwydr Church Lon Gwesyn Birchgrove SA7 9LD Uplands SA2 0HN 5pm & 7pm 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Susan 07813 316739 Tel: Kathryn 07850 569380

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES (Self employed) for past and present members in the Swansea area. Contact Sam on 07949 476411 or Joanna on 07787 574328 for details

CWMGORS Cwmgors Community Centre Cemetary Road Cwmgors Ammanford SA18 1PS 7pm Tel: Gemma 07894 327584

TOWNHILL Gors Community Centre Heol y Gors Townhill SA1 6RY 9.30am & 11.30am Tel: Amanda 07815 989756 SATURDAY YSTRADGYNLAIS Glanrhyd Coronation Club Glannant Ystradgynlais SA9 1BG 9.00am & 11.00am Tel: Nicola 07718 053121 CWMbWRLA Gordon Moore Centre (FOYD) 300 Carmarthen Road 8.30am & 10.30am Tel: Kurtis 07939 409 617 SKETTY Uniting Church 67 Dilwyn Street, Sketty, SA2 9AH 9:30am Tel: Michelle 07460 863747

BRIDE

Our bellissimo Italian wedding Swansea Life resident GP Dr Charlotte Jones has just married love of her life Maurice Smith in a sun-kissed ceremony in the Italian coastal resort of Sorrento. Here, she shares memories of her big day with Peter Slee...  How did you meet? Via the Times Online dating site. Neither of us was expecting to fall in love with somebody living more than 250 miles away given busy family lives and careers. But some three and a half years later, here we are, married!  Who proposed? Maurice proposed on January 6, 2018 at a little party we had at our house surrounded by many friends and family. The timing was a complete surprise, although I did know he had bought some special jewellery when we were on holiday.  Where did you get married? Our formal ceremony was in the Cloisters, Sorrento followed by a reception in the Ambasciatori Hotel. We then had a wedding blessing in St Paul’s church, Sketty and another amazing reception in Morgans Hotel, Swansea three weeks later.

44 SWANSEA LIFE

 What attracted you to the venue(s) you chose? Maurice has a yacht and is a keen sailor and he fell in love with Sorrento some time ago. After visiting it in 2018 I couldn’t imagine anywhere more magical to marry. Given the potential complexities of marrying abroad and our lack of Italian speaking skills, we took time choosing the perfect wedding planner for Sorrento (Rosanne from Orange Blossom Weddings, Sorrento). She was fabulous and helped us book the Cloisters and choose the Ambasciatori Hotel with its breathtaking views. The formal wedding was a small family affair, and given we booked June which is in the midst of exam season for many of our friends and wider family, we decided to have a UK celebration too. My cousin’s husband is the vicar in St Paul’s Church Sketty (which is where my two children were christened) so it was a no-brainer as to where we would hold the wedding blessing. We looked at lots and lots of wedding reception venues across Wales, eventually choosing Morgans Hotel after meeting their wedding planner Georgina.

She was an absolute joy to work with and I cannot recommend her and Morgans highly enough. A fabulous time was had by all.  What was your theme? We chose a navy and cream colour theme with nods to Maurice’s love of sailing and my love of “bling”.  How did you make your wedding personal to you? Any DIY touches? We set up a personalised website using the templates on www.gettingmarried.co.uk which was brilliant at keeping guests updated. We also had the most amazing invitations made by Adam at grandgift.eu which were really different. They had a pop up ship when you opened them and we then followed the theme through with some sail tea lights as favours for guests in Swansea. The addition of navy/cream hand-held fans, heart bubble wands and gift bags for all the guests meant all coped well with the very hot sun. I do love glamour and glitz, so Jan and Anne at Heavenly Wishes put some crystals in my bouquet. Our table decorations had some scatter crystals, there were beads on the candelabras and a light-up floor for the disco in the night. We also bought white glittery flip flops to soothe the ladies aching feet which everyone loved.  What did you wear? Why did you choose that particular style? How did you accessorise it? I actually bought a dress soon after the proposal, but in true “say yes to the dress style” when my gorgeous daughter Rhiannon saw it, she wasn’t bowled over. So off to Rowberrys we went where the lovely ladies gave Rhiannon free rein over the dresses and she selected a Ronald Joyce Agatha dress. I have to say when she took it off the rail, being a curvy larger bride, I thought there was no way I would get into it, but it did fit and I felt beautiful in it. Rhiannon swears it gave me a “beyonce butt” and what bigger compliment can one get!!

 What outfit did the groom wear? Did he stand out from the groomsmen? Maurice wore a three-piece navy suit with an open neck white shirt and tan brogues in Sorrento. Swansea saw a colourful floral tie meaning that he definitely stood out.  What did the bridesmaids wear? My daughter Rhiannon wore an elegant, navy dress with lace cut outs and a lace fishtail which she accessorised with flowers in her hair and a wrist corsage in Italy. Maurice’s granddaughter was our flower girl in Sorrento and also Swansea, wearing a beautiful off-white dress with a netted overskirt that included navy blue petals inside and a big navy bow, navy sequin shoes and a tiara completed the outfit. They looked beautiful. In Swansea, my brothers daughter was a flower girl too and my sister’s son Oliver was a page boy following the colour theme for the wedding.  How did you entertain your guests? In Sorrento we had a reception at The Ambasciatori Hotel that sits on the cliff edge overlooking the sea. We took over the garden area where a large table was set out with views of the bay and the setting sun. It was breathtakingly beautiful. The evening started with canopies and champagne, followed by fine dining and dancing until midnight. In Swansea, we took over Morgans Hotel where we had reception drinks and canapes followed by a delicious meal accompanied by some excellent wines from Majestic of Swansea. The evening saw fun and frolics with Ben from JD entertainments ensuring the light-up dance floor was packed right to the end of the night by playing songs that our guests asked for in advance. It was fun fun fun all the way.  How did you both feel on the day? The Sorrento wedding was magical with the dramatic Cloisters setting and then the breathtaking, yet intimate, reception in the evening at the Ambasciatori helped us create so many wonderful memories. SWANSEA LIFE 45

BRIDE

Photography: www.italy-weddingplanner.com and Adam Davies The wedding blessing in St Paul’s Church in Swansea was equally special, as it meant we could have our wedding blessed in church in front of 120+ family and friends who had travelled from all over the UK and abroad. It is fair to say that we did both have a little flutter of nerves as the church doors opened, seeing so many friends and family there.  Your favourite moments? Seeing our families and friends getting on so famously and enjoying the wedding. Both of the events hold so many cherished moments but we do smile and laugh when recalling that I answered “si” instead of “I do” during the Italian ceremony.

 What special touches made your day more memorable? So many things that is hard to pick just one thing, but for both of us, the joy of seeing our children. Maurice has two beautiful daughters, Brittanny and Teichin, as well as a lovely granddaughter Mia. Coming together and making firm friendships was, and is, wonderful.  And same for honeymoon? Maurice arranged the entire honeymoon itinerary which was amazing, ensuring we saw so many wonderful and interesting places. We drove along the Amalfi coast road from

Sorrento to Matera and on to Ravenna, Urbina, Verona, Milan, Como and Evian Les Bains, ending up in Versailles. It was truly fantastic having the opportunity to visit so many historical sites including palaces, art museums and castles. The stand out events were, seeing “La Traviata” in the open arena in Verona and having dinner in Gordon Ramsey’s “Au Trianon” restaurant in Versailles – both spectacular and unforgettable evenings.  Your top wedding plan/on-the-day tip? Just enjoy it all – time will pass so very quickly and before you know it, the day will arrive – focus on making wonderful memories and don’t sweat the small stuff.

Want to see your wedding in Swansea Life or WM magazine? We are always looking for beautifully photographed events to feature. What we’re looking for: We’ll want to see hi-res photographs of the bride getting ready, bouquets, floral arrangements, and décor, the vow exchange, first dance, the wedding cake, portraits of the couple and wedding party, and your guests having a great time. We’re always excited to see real couples’ cool, inventive ideas, so please include as many detailed shots as possible. Tell us a bit about yourselves and your wedding as well – maybe you wore your mother’s gown, or drew inspiration from a favourite film. One thing, you’ll need the official ok from your cameraman for us to use the images. Where to send it: email all of the information above to peter.slee@reachplc.com

46 SWANSEA LIFE

JOIN US FOR OUR

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Sunday 6th October, 11-4pm FREE entry & cocktail on arrival FREE goody bags for 1st 100 Brides A selection of some of Walesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; top wedding suppliers Our award winning wedding coordinators will be on hand to offer wedding advice & show you around the grounds & accommodation FREE food samples & tasters from head events chef Kevin Draper Prize draw to win overnight stay at the hotel Live entertainment throughout the day Wine tasting with Fine Wines Direct UK And lots more on the day... no appointment necessary

www.kingarthurhotel.co.uk weddings@kingarthurhotel.co.uk Higher Green, Reynoldston, Gower, SA3 1AD 01792 390775

BRIDE

to have and to hold Emily Williams and Jessica Eveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wedding party celebration at the Swansea Marriott Hotel Photography: Hoosh Multimedia

48 SWANSEA LIFE

Wedding Showcase Sunday 29th September 11am - 3pm

Peak dates still available for 2020

Visit www.cliffhotel.com or email weddings@cliffhotel.com THE CLIFF HOTEL & SPA | GWBERT | CEREDIGION | SA43 1PP | T: 01239 613241

BRIDE

‘You’ve found the one, why wait?’ Image taken at Oldwalls Gow er by Nick Murray photogr aphy

How to plan a whirlwind wedding… Tying the knot in six months or less? Never fear, it really doesn’t have to overwhelm you! It can truly be a glorious thing! And it absolutely can be done! Here are Swansea wedding PR Shakira Obaid’s top tips for planning a last-minute whirlwind wedding…

Most wedding planners will suggest that you give yourself up to 18 months to plan your dream wedding. Planning a whirlwind wedding can seem daunting, but in actual fact, it can make things run more smoothly, be super exciting and you’ll often be able to benefit from last minute cost savings too.

date seems; the people that matter most will do whatever it takes to be there.

the age of Facebook, chances are that they’ll be able to put you in contact with amazing suppliers with nothing more than the touch of a button.

STEP 4: Say ‘yes to

‘Choose your bride squad wisely ’ Image by Rachel Lambert photography

the dress’

Most bridal wear suppliers recommend 12-18 months as the average lead time, but they’ll be super excited to hear that time isn’t of the essence and I’m sure will be thrilled to help you feel a million dollars in your dream dress. What’s more you’ll benefit from being ‘totally up to date with the current trends’, you may even benefit from ‘sample sale’ offers. Choose a wedding dress supplier that boasts an ‘in-house’ alteration service, this will ensure your dress accentuates your every curve and fits perfectly in no time.

Let’s face it, when you think you have a whole 18 months to get things done, it’s all too easy to end up procrastinating on Pinterest for months on end. This simple guide will help make your whirlwind wedding a reality.

STEP 1:

Pick a venue that takes care of the ‘finishing touches’ It goes without saying that picking the right wedding venue is crucial when it comes to planning a wedding in a short time frame. Choose somewhere that’s so beautiful that you’d get married there tomorrow if you could. If you love the venue in its natural state then any additional decorations will be a bonus! I’d recommend avoiding a DIY barn/marquee if you don’t have the lead time.

STEP 2: Save the dates Issue the invitations: the guests are one of the most important parts of your special day so you will want to give them as much notice as possible. Don’t panic about how last minute your 50 SWANSEA LIFE

STEP 3: Research and connect Most venues worth their salt will offer a wedding co-ordinator as part of the package. Drill them with your questions as they’re the industry experts to recommend dress shops, bands, florists etc. Also, remember your weddingobsessed friend that got married a few months back? Do you shudder as you remember her military precision, flowcharts and colour coded wedding file? Well, she’s now your greatest ally, as are the rest of your married friends and family members. Ask them for advice and inspiration. In

STEP 5: Relax and enjoy the planning

process

If you surround yourself with positive ‘can do’ friends and wedding suppliers you can’t go far wrong, but it is most important you don’t lose sight of the real reason why you’re getting married: you’re in love and want to spend the rest of your lives together. That’s all that counts. Enjoy the most special day with friends and family, it will all come together in the end whether you have six months or six years to plan!

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BELS NUOC

K R AP H C E B E L S ETATS E YR T N UO C

S L E B EC H PAR K C OU N T RY E STATE

S L E B EC

COUNTRY

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We offer a range of packages to suit every budget, Exclusive discounts for selected dates and we can cater to all guest numbers Use of our Grade 1 listed historic theatre for your Ceremony Plus get exclusive use of the venue where your guests can stay the night before/after your wedding at 50% discount*

Book our spectacular castle in beautiful surroundings, to make your dream wedding, the most beautiful wedding ever. Please contact us for more information on our Fantastic Packages Our experienced wedding planners are on hand to talk you through your options

Phone: 01639 731167 Email: info@craigynoscastle.com Brecon Rd, Pen-y-cae, Swansea SA9 1GL

Website:

www.craigynoscastleweddings.com *subject to availability

plas Make your own history.........

in d e rri 2020 a t m for ÂŁ ability e il G 20 va a 0 2 ited Lim

.........in the historic surroundings of Plas Llanelly House, in the heart of Llanelli opposite the Parish church of St Elli With Fine Georgian architecture this striking venue is the perfect setting for your wedding or special event. Llanelly House is fully licensed for Marriages and Civil Partnerships. The House has a lovely choice of rooms. Or you can be Lord and Lady for a day having exclusive use of the house. Whatever your budget we endeavour to tailor make a package truly unique for you. Plas Llanelly House Bridge Street, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire SA15 3UF

01554 772857 Bookings@llanellyhouse.org.uk

www.llanelly-house.org.uk

A place to relax, meet friends, laugh, and just enjoy time to yourself... Luxury boutique accommodation, AA Rosette Award restaurant, golf course & our newly renovated spa treatment rooms, The Dovecote

WINTER

Wonderland Walk through our doors this Christmas with our Let It Snow Winter Wonderland at the Swansea Marriott

Let it snow Snow Shimmer Cocktail on Arrival Red Carpet Arrival 3 Course Traditional Christmas Meal with Tea and Coffee Winter Wonderland Themed Space Outdoor Winter Warmer Bar Disco until 1am

Let it snow AVAILABLE ON THE FOLLOWING NIGHTS:

WINTER WONDERLAND PARTY AVAILABLE ON THE FOLLOWING NIGHTS: Saturday 30th November, Friday 6th December, Friday 20th December, Saturday 21st December £39.95 per person swansea.events@marriotthotels.co.uk

WINTER WONDERLAND PARTY INCLUDING LIVE ENTERTAINMENT £41.95 per person swansea.events@marriotthotels.co.uk

Saturday 7th December, Friday 13th December, Saturday 14th December We look forward to celebrating the festive season with you!

To book call 01792 642 020 or email swansea.events@marriotthotels.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Ready to paint the town pink?

Home cooking

Gorseinon’s Sian Day

with

A deliciously recipe for September

Chocolate Choux buns

The current trend for pink wine is for pale and interesting, but there’s more to the style if you know where to look! 1. Exquisite Selection Sud de France Rosé 2018, IGP Pays d’Oc, France (£5.99, Aldi, Gorseinon) It’s not new on the shelves, but in the hands of talented winemaker Jean-Claude Mas, this juicy, fruity, vibrant rosé always tastes youthful and fun, with its pretty strawberry aromas and a flush of bright berry and cherry flavours offering an appealing, mouth-watering finish. 2. Rosé Mediterranee 2018, France (SPAR stores) At the softer end of the pink spectrum, SPAR’S new rosé is a delicate style and offers faint florals with savoury, summer fruit flavours and a thread of fresh acidity. It’s not hugely concentrated but has a lovely, stony freshness if you want to drink in a Riviera lifestyle - and goes down a treat with a well garnished salad nicoise. 3. Cotes de Provence Saint Victoire Rosé 2018, France (£12, Marks & Spencer, Swansea) A beautiful ballerina pink that’s suave and elegant with a bouquet of dried berries, floral accents and candied citrus fruits, plus cherry, plum and ripe citrus supported by moderate acidity. There’s an alluring silkiness that lets the flavours shine through. 4. Fleur de Mer, Cotes de Provence Rosé 2018, France (£16.50, The Bottle Club) The nose has dainty floral aromas, leading to a textured, silky palate with white peach, cherry and the merest hint of watermelon, fresh herbal notes and a delicate mineral core followed by crisp acidity. Refreshingly delicious, Fleur de Mer looks good, tastes good, and makes you want to run to the lavender fields of Provence.

Choux pastry has a bit of a bad wrap because it can be a bit tricky to get right, however if you work quickly and follow these easy steps putting in a fair amount of elbow grease they should turn out just fine. According to some historical cookbooks a French chef invented the choux dough in the early 1500s. A lady in his court said they reminded her of little cabbages so then he named the pastry dough ‘pate a choux’ cabbage in French. They certainly don’t remind me of cabbage, as once eaten you find yourself in culinary heaven. These light fluffy parcels of sweet creamy joy are a reminder of when our grandmother would make these in éclair form and pipe hundreds onto baking sheets, in preparation for large family gatherings and members of the family would compete to see who ate the most. These are best eaten on the same day. ingredients ■ 55g butter ■ 75g plain sifted flour ■ 2 eggs beaten ■ 275ml double cream ■ 100g bar chocolate method 1. Put the butter and 150ml water into a saucepan. Heat gently until the butter has melted, then boil. 2. Once the water boils remove from heat and quickly tip in the flour and beat with a wooden spoon until a smooth ball of dough is formed. 3. Gradually beat in the eggs until you have a nice glossy smooth paste. 4. Place little teaspoonfuls of the dough on a baking sheet leaving a

good one-inch space between as they will puff up during cooking. 5. Bake on a high shelf in a preheated oven 2000 for 10 minutes 6. Increase the heat to 2200 for approximately 15 minutes until they are crisp and golden brown. 7. Pierce the sides of the buns to let the steam escape and bake for a couple more minutes 8. Allow to cool before filling. 9. Just before serving slice the buns in half and fill generously with whipped cream and drizzle the top with melted chocolate.

! Bon appetit

FOLLOW SIAN’S DELICIOUS RECIPES on her blog page siandaydream.wordpress.com or Tweet her @SianDay SWANSEA LIFE 57

FOOD & DRINK

Turtle Bay Not all high street restaurant chains are created equal. Some are flashy set-ups with mission statements but no idea what customers want. Peter Slee calls in on one that is quite the opposite...

Oh, little Scotch Bonnet chilli, we have such a complex love affair. You sit there, all cute and joyously crimson like butter wouldn’t melt. So adorable, so much prettier than your spindly Bird’s Eye chum and that feeble bell pepper. You lure me in, every, every time. ‘Peeteeer,’ you say. ‘Order the curry shrimp and mango! How much hotter can it be than a Singapore laksa or a spicy Kerala fish curry?’ The answer, of course, is considerably! Although this will not and cannot stop me reassessing my Scotch Bonnet tolerance at least 10 times a year, because — and here’s the chilli rub — there is virtually nothing you could describe to me on a Caribbean restaurant menu that doesn’t make me drool. The mere mention of jerk calamari, peppa shrimp or grilled lobster with chilli lime butter and a red forgetful mist descends. I felt this ever since contemporary Caribbean restaurant Turtle Bay first opened in Swansea’s Castle Street a couple of years ago. The place is about five minutes’ walk from the office. It opens for much of the day, has a variety of large, six- to eight-person tables perfect for jubilant dinners with friends and, heroically, they even take bookings, so you can be certain you’ll get fed. More vitally, they serve jerk pit wings with sweet mango as a starter. They have Jamaican patties. They marinate their jerk meats — chicken, pork, lamb — for 24 hours then cook them over coals. You may leave smelling slightly of a camping trip, but I can’t say I’m overly bothered. Walk in and you’re quickly overwhelmed by the atmosphere. There’s an army of attentive waiting staff scurrying around. It feels alive and convivial, the punters predominantly young and excitable and with, the atmosphere redolent of a beach party. The whole place buzzes with jollity, but doesn’t feel crowded. There’s an open-plan kitchen overlooking the bar and dining area. The bathrooms are constructed of corrugated iron sheeting and painted driftwood, while upturned steel drums double as hand basins. I take my hat off to the owners for the energy and detailing they’ve put into this artful scene-setting. It puts a smile on your face the minute you sit down. The formula has been working a treat in a number of UK cities in recent years. And judging by its packed tables whenever I walk past, it is now also a big success in Swansea too. That drinks bar which serves a mighty and seriously hewn selection of cocktails occupies a giant, central slab of the place offering mostly rum-based drinks with

admixtures of banana liqueur, apricot brandy and Tia Maria. It’s all about sweetness, fruit and extra alcohol. Island Iced Tea combines rum, tequila, vodka and gin with triple sec, fresh lemon and Pepsi, a blend which promises to end your evening right there. My Reggae rum punch was made with Uncle Wray overproofed rum, fresh lime, bitters and strawberry. A lightning bolt of a drink tasting innocently of the orange and pineapple swirling in its depths. The menu is my perfect sort of list. Imaginative but comforting. Bewitching but not too bewildering. There are starters of garlic and chilli prawns, beef patties or the likes of garlic and herb flatbreads or glazed ribs. We shared a first course of those marinated jerk wings and glazed pork ribs with chicken flatbreads and sweet corn fritters with a green salad. It was all pretty quickly vacuumed up. To follow on this visit, an halloumi and mushroom burger - not very Caribbean but pretty much perfect in taste - did the job for me while across the table a ‘one pot’, curry shrimp and mango which arrived with a decent portion of steamed rice and flatbreads and which came with an assertive kick and was nicely creamy, was another winner. I often think, while on my eating missions, that it would save me so many hours behind a PC if I could simply write: ‘We ate the lot, piggily, while chatting. Or: ‘We picked at things while scowling. Avoid.’ Sadly, the people here want more bang for her buck. Suffice to say, Turtle Bay would be the former. I wear my greedy predictability like a badge. Of course I ordered curry goat on my next visit. Of course it was a bit too hot. Of course it made my lips sting a little once I’d added some of the table sauces to it. Would I order it again with a side of sweet potato fries? Yes! In about three weeks’ time, with a side of the spiced fries and Caribbean slaw. Turtle Bay for all its everyday, high street restaurant chain credentials has some of the best Caribbean food I’ve eaten: bonfire-scented, gloriously blackened in parts while remaining moist. The place knows exactly what it is doing. We finished with a chilli chocolate brownie. And I’m going back soon for the two-way chicken burger with a spicy panko crumb. Yes, I frequently can’t stand the heat, but I refuse to get out of the kitchen!

Turtle Bay | 10 Castle Street, Swansea SA1 1JF | Tel: 01792 467060

58 SWANSEA LIFE

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SHIRECOMBE HOUSE, SOUTHGATE, SWANSEA

This delightful, traditional, 1904 Edwardian property is superbly positioned on the famous Mumbles road. This semi-detached family home offers 7 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, 4 bathrooms and fabulous views of Mumbles and Swansea Bay . EPC D

A hidden gem with the most spectacular views of Three Cliffs and Oxwich Bay. 5 min walk to Pobbles beach, village pubs, stores & Pennard golf club. Also included is a detached 4 bed Coach House, used presently as a holiday let. EPC D&D

Asking Price £695,000

Asking Price £2,650,000

Regionally 18 offices throughout the region Nationally 225 offices across Great Britain Internationally Plus 75 offices globally 5000 professional associates all around the world

CARISSIMA, RHOSSILI, GOWER, SWANSEA

24 LADY HOUSTY AVENUE, NEWTON, SWANSEA

Spectacular sea & countryside panoramas, this detached family home provides modern accommodation comprising fabulous kitchen/diner & large utility, lounge, 5 beds, 2 baths & 1 en-suite. Large block barn & garden with countryside views. EPC D

Located in an exclusive development of five luxury, individually designed detached family homes. This 6-bedroom detached property with 6 reception rooms, 5 bathrooms, garage and countryside views has been built by award winning developers. EPC B

Asking Price £595,000

Asking Price £1,250,000

11 EAST CLIFF, SOUTHGATE, SWANSEA

SUMMER HOUSE, THREE CROSSES, SWANSEA

Panoramic sea views of Three Cliffs, Oxwich, Somerset, and the Gower countryside. The detached home offers 5 beds, 3 receptions, 3 baths, large gardens, outdoor swimming pool, triple garage, 2 stables. Or a fantastic sizeable plot to simply start again. EPC E

A superb family home set in idyllic countryside & beautiful gardens on the outskirts of Gower. Offering lovely living spaces, 4 beds, garage & a generous peaceful garden. Summer House also has stunning views towards the Devonshire coastline, Bristol Channel & rural scenery. EPC E

Asking Price £995,000

Offers Over £650,000

Fine & Country Swansea 77 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BN Tel: +44 (0)1792 367301 | Email: swansea@fineandcountry.com

Regionally 18 offices throughout the region Nationally 225 offices across Great Britain

325 GOWER ROAD, KILLAY, SWANSEA

ROSEMEAD HOUSE, LLANRHIDIAN, NORTH GOWER

325 Gower Road demonstrates beautifully, the personification of grandeur, opulence and class. Residing at a greatly admired location, this beautiful detached family home offers 6 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, 4 bathrooms, triple garage and fabulous grounds. EPC D

Perfectly private extended farmhouse surrounded by the most spectacular North Gower countryside views & set among approx 5 acres. Presenting generous accommodation of 5 beds, 4 receptions & 2 bathrooms. Glorious gardens & grounds. EPC D

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8 LANGLAND BAY MANOR, LANGLAND, SWANSEA

A modern detached family home situated within the traditional village of Three Crosses. This hidden gem over looks rolling hills, Loughor Estuary and the village green. The detached home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms and private garden. EPC B

Superbly located and impeccably finished, this superior two bedroom apartment, is presented beautifully with much attention to detail continued throughout the home. Situated moments away from the family friendly Langland Bay. EPC Exempt

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HUNTERS HOLLOW, PENMAEN, GOWER

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Hunters Hollow is a superb 7-bedroom detached family home, fantastically positioned just off a quiet countryside lane in Penmaen. This home is set in a prime location with generous living space, mature gardens and approx 3.46 acres of agricultural land. EPC F

The Tithe Barn is perfectly situated to encompass all that is special about this area of South Wales. This superb barn conversion offers 4 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, 2 bathrooms, a single garage, glorious grounds and annexe. EPC F

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Fine & Country Swansea 77 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BN Tel: +44 (0)1792 367301 | Email: swansea@fineandcountry.com

HOUSE & HOME

BRIGHT BEAUTIFUL Walk through this beautiful and characterful Swansea home which offers a stylish 2019 retreat from everyday life. Peter Slee has been to visit...

66 SWANSEA LIFE

nyone who has ever fallen in love with a house can recall the moment cupid struck and perhaps why his arrow was fired.

It may be the location, perhaps the decor, sometimes it is a buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s style. Or possibly, a mix of all three.

Need the proof? Then check out this beauty in the Swansea village of Newton that delivers real impact mixing a lux interior with a sense of stately glamour.

design/fittings alongside countryside views and tranquillity and all while being just moments away from the joys of Langland, Caswell and Mumbles.

Located in an exclusive development of just five luxury, individually designed detached family home and built by an award winning developer using quality materials and workmanship, 24 Lady Housty Avenue offers private surroundings, opulent internal

Walk through its front door into an impressive, opulent entrance. In front of you, a grand imperial staircase leading up to a galleried landing full of light thanks to the full height ceiling and abundance of windows. SWANSEA LIFE 67

HOUSE & HOME

The ground floor lounge is again light and airy with a bay window to the front, carpeted and an electric fire with decorative surround. Into the dining room with its large patio doors, bamboo flooring and ample room to house a fabulous dining table for a formal entertaining space. Elsewhere, a family room offers up an easy connection with the truly spectacular kitchen/breakfast room. Instantly impressive and beautifully lit, it is laid with tiles, has four Velux windows and bi-fold doors leading directly to the rear garden. The kitchen itself will wow too with its beautiful, elegant wooden units with worktops, lavish detailed edging and metal handle detailing, anchored at its core with a mammoth fixed island housing matching units, worktops and integrated dish washer, double Belfast sink and Miele wine cooler. Upstairs and over two floors, six bedrooms, five bathrooms, a utility room and TV room all help add to the feeling of space and cratfmanship. Finally, outside, a welcoming and private garden with a large and level lawn with a number of patio areas coming off the rear of the property and countryside views. Close by, Langland and Caswell bays as well as Mumbles. The house , a versatile and sociable space very much at the heart of its village, provides what is a perfect backdrop for both vintage and contemporary furniture with petty pastel decorating adding to the feeling of elegance. “This house has the feel of a much-loved home,” says interiors guru Sue Kirk. “A true mix of all the things we love best adding up to a real feeling of homeliness.”

THE DETAILS: Asking price: £1,250,000 Agents: Dawsons 77 Newton Road, Mumbles T: 01792 367301 E: swansea@fineandcountry.com

68 SWANSEA LIFE

100% YOUR DREAM HOME 100% PART EXCHANGE 100% COWBRIDGE LIFE Live at the heart of the VALE of GLAMORGAN Experience country life in Cowbridge with 4 and 5 bedroom homes from £396,995 A warm welcome to Clare Garden Village. Tucked away in Cowbridge between breathtaking Welsh countryside, the cold waves of the Bristol channel, and bustling cities, Clare Garden Village has an extensive range of 4 and 5 bedroom homes designed in keeping with the landscape and finished with unique, contemporary features. When you buy a new home using our Part Exchange scheme, we’ll buy your existing property from you.* You avoid all the stress of trying to sell your house on the market, managing and paying for estate agents, and worrying about house buying chains. It’s straightforward, to make your move to Clare Garden Village as easy as possible. - 3 bedroom homes coming in 2020 -

Clare Garden Village, Cowbridge

Book an appointment today 01446 502424 taylorwimpey.co.uk #taylorwimpey Normal Taylor Wimpey terms and conditions apply. Images used for illustrative purposes only. Images may include optional upgrades at additional cost. Prices correct at time of going to press. Please speak to our sales executives regarding the tenure of our new homes. easymover – Offer available on selected plots only. Please speak to a sales executive for more details of this scheme. Part Exchange – Offer available on selected plots only. Your existing home cannot exceed 70% of the value of the new home. Please speak to a sales executive for more details of this scheme. August 2019.

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DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT OFOF OF 5 OF HOMES OF 55 OF HOMES HOMES 55 HOMES HOMES 5 HOMES OFOF OF 3OF OF STYLES OF 33 OF STYLES 5 STYLES 33 HOMES STYLES STYLES 3 STYLES (4 (4 AND (4 (4 AND (4 AND OF (4 5AND AND BEDS) 3AND 55 STYLES BEDS) BEDS) 55 BEDS) BEDS) 5- BEDS) (4 AND 8pm

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01792 01792 01792 01792 01792 653100 01792 653100 653100 653100 653100 653100 01792 653100 tim.kostromin@dawsonsproperty.co.uk tim.kostromin@dawsonsproperty.co.uk tim.kostromin@dawsonsproperty.co.uk tim.kostromin@dawsonsproperty.co.uk tim.kostromin@dawsonsproperty.co.uk tim.kostromin@dawsonsproperty.co.uk tim.kostromin@dawsonsproperty.co.uk

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23. You can follow us on Facebook to see examples of our work and get some inspiration 24. Our advice & quotes are totally free! No pressure, no hassle 25. You can arrange an appointment for us to visit and discuss your requirements and provide in writing a no obligation quote

TING A R B ELE

1994 -201 9

HOUSE & HOME

Abigail Ahern pom pom cushion, £40; Debenhams, Swansea

colour school Add energy to a living space by teaming up cool blue-greys with punchy reds and oranges

Stoneware vase, £8, George at Home, Swansea

Lille orange slot voile panel, £16; woven throw £30; elephant tealight holder £6; caprice side table, £79; wooden clock, £36; whitby sofa, from £649; tribal platter, £22; skies rug from £365

74 SWANSEA LIFE

Round knitted teal pouffe, £99; HomeSense, Parc Fforestfach

Home apartment mustard and grey chunky knitted throw, £30. Sainsbury’s Home, Swansea

Coloured stripe vase, £55; Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park

Home global elephant planter, £20; Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Me la 5; Wilko, Morris , £1.2 ton late ep sid ine m

Dax side table, £30; Matalan, Cwmdu Lark tub chair, £319; DfS, Llansamlet

Blue ceramic dish, £7.99; HomeSense, Parc Fforestfach

Tune table lamp; from a range at Arthur Llewellyn Jenkins, Garngoch

Cat bud vase, £15; Cath Kidston, Cardiff

Pod armchair in Marylamb Terracotta, £549; John Lewis, Cardiff

SWANSEA LIFE 75

Range of 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes available

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#0% APR REPRESENTATIVE Finance is subject to status, conditions apply. Credit is provided by Hitachi Consumer Finance, a trading style of Hitachi Capital (UK) PLC and Leekes Limited who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Minimum of £500 or 10% deposit required. Qualifying spend, minimum and maximum loan amount applies.*When purchased with a kitchen or bathroom. Stocked tiles only, to a maximum of £500. Minimum spend applies. ■Discount applies to doored cabinets only. Excludes decorative items such as plinths, pelmets and panels, ex-display and clearance lines. °Minimum spend £6000. Order must be confirmed and deposit paid by 2/10/19 and delivered by Christmas 2019. Varies according to range. •Minimum spend of £6000 on Rotpunkt cabinets only, while stocks last. ^With an induction hob. ▲Minimum spend of £2500, available on all bathrooms, while stocks last. Item no 629762, 629764 and 606219 only. ◆Utopia bathrooms only, while stocks last. Item no 714472 only. ‡Checked on 1/8/19. †Conditions apply, ask in store for details. Offers end 2/10/19.

HOUSE & HOME

L E S L E Y

TAY LO R

OverHAUL your entrance IT SETS THE TONE FOR THE REST OF THE HOME SO MAKE SURE YOUR ENTRANCE IS SPOT ON

If you think the kitchen works hard, it has nothing on the entrance hall. After all, it’s the first room guests see when the enter our home for the first time, and the last before they bid farewell. It has to be functional too, a place to leave car keys, umbrellas and even shoes. So how do you combine functionality with drop dead gorgeous interiors? With a little bit of TLC and some clever accessories. From gallery walls to mirrors, coat stands to lamps, there is a place – and a purpose – for everything. Even if that purpose is to simply look great.

1. If you ask a guest to remove shoes in your home, make sure the shoes have somewhere to sit 2. Fill your entrance hall with useful accessories 3. Hooks are fabulous for adding interest and stylish storage 4. Sleek shoe cupboards will keep your entrance hall clear – personalise yours with artwork

From a practical point of view, the hallway is a great place to stow the items you need just before leaving the house, such as the aforementioned shoes and keys. Shelving, with coat hooks attached, are great for busy households. Use the shelves as a dumping ground for school bags, umbrellas and hats – leaving them within easy reach but all the while keeping the floor clutter free. A mirror is also an essential. A large mirror will make the space feel roomier – just be careful about where you place it. If you have it directly opposite your coat hooks, it can make the room feel crowded. The hallway has massive potential for storage too – especially under the stairs. It depends entirely on what budget you have at your disposal but if you can afford to, commission a carpenter to create a bespoke unit to make the most of every spare inch. If funds are a little tighter, there are plenty of high street and flat-pack options out there, which have been created solely for this purpose. The fit might not be as clean but it will still offer plentiful storage. Where do you stand on shoes off or shoes on in the home?

If you opt for a ‘no shoe’ rule, you need somewhere close to the front door to stow the abandoned footwear. A bench with some wicker baskets underneath will do the job beautifully, and will also give residents and guests somewhere to perch while removing footwear. Alternatively, if you prefer something a little less cumbersome, slender shoe cabinets – of varying styles and budgets – are now widely available. These slim and stylish cupboards are discreet and also offer an extra surface to add personality with framed pictures, a post tray and a plate for loose change and car keys. Those in the ‘shoes on’ camp run the risk of someone trampling mud through this hightraffic area. While a welcome mat will help protect your flooring, a rug or runner will keep it in tip top condition longer. Bigger is most certainly better so go for the longest rug you can find, leaving around 20 centimetres each side. And don’t forget your rug grips to keep it firmly in place.

EDIT Home & Design’s Lesley Taylor of Mumbles is the author of 10 interior design books and has appeared on a range of network TV shows, including This Morning, giving inspirational advice on home styling. For more information on her work, head to lesleytaylor.co.uk SWANSEA LIFE 82

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EDIT your perfect bathroom… From family wetrooms to guest en suites, EDIT specialises in helping you create the bathrooms of your dreams. Interior designer Megan Griffiths explains how…

1) Come say hello! First things first – come and visit us in our Swansea showroom, no appointment necessary! We’ll show you our latest bathroom arrivals and start chatting through your design project. We make a great cuppa and it’s the perfect chance to get to know our team and start seeing the solutions we can offer.

2) Tell us everything we need to know… We always make sure you get the perfect bathroom for YOU. It’s not just about fitting in a toilet, bath and sink, but about really planning the space, making sure it looks and feels right, and taking into account everything from tile colours, to blinds, to the perfect locations for all the finishing touches! Home consultations allow us to walk through your space together and find out how you use it on a daily basis. We’ll take detailed measurements and photos, and ask questions to find out exactly what you want, your style preferences and budget. There is an initial charge for this, but it’s refunded when you place your bathroom order.

512B Mumbles Rd, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BU

3) Let us work our magic! After our home consultation, we’ll take everything you’ve told us and all our design knowledge to create your bathroom, providing high quality 3D visuals and moodboards to show you exactly what we think your bathroom could become…a bathroom with wow factor! We know all the tips and tricks for making bathrooms look fantastic (without blowing the budget) and we’re also not restricted to one brochure of products, so we really can find the perfect products for you. We’ll work with you to finalise the design and once you’re happy, the countdown can begin! 3D visual

4) Let us help with the hard work Showroom display

EDIT client elevation

EDIT can help make sure your bathroom fit out is as stress free as possible too. Depending on what you’d like, we can work with your installation team from start to finish, making sure they have all the plans they need, that you’re kept fully in the loop and ensuring that everything arrives on time and in pristine condition. We can also make regular site visits to make sure everything is going to plan, counting down to the final grand reveal! We love helping our clients create their dream bathrooms, so come and have a chat to see what we can do for you!

Megan x 01792 439119 | www.edithomeanddesign.co.uk

HOUSE & HOME

Scene-stealer seats If you like a laid-back vibe, hanging chairs are ultra-fashionable currently, and Cox & Cox has an open weave round rattan cocoon chair, £650. It comes with a stand or a hook so it can be hung from the ceiling. Enhance the cosiness by draping with a curly sheepskin – natural, £175.

Dutchbone Kubu rattan mirror, £99, Cuckooland

Weave some magic at home No longer confined to retro schemes and conservatories, nature’s most versatile materials are making a stylish comebacks, says Gabrielle Fagan you to add more personality to a space.”

We’re all waking up to the magic of weave, with rattan – that blonde, slim, easy-on-the eye material – enjoying a starring role in homes right now.

She highlights the Nadia bedframe (designed by Matthew Long), made from four individual rattan sections which clip together for easy assembly, and Habitat’s range of rattan light shades, which simply fit over a bulb.

Pinterest and Instagram are full of stunning examples of how rattan can lend a ‘wow’ factor in a way that solid wood simply can’t, and it’s totally in tune with our growing desire for natural products and organic designs in our living spaces.

Mix ‘n’ match

Rattan was a huge hit in the 70s, a trend that stuck for at least a decade, and has endured as a staple of the conservatory – but perish the thought that this is just a predictable reincarnation.

Double up for maximum effect – two chairs are better than one because they’ll look as though you’ve committed to a style, rather than bought a random piece.

Designers have so transformed it, with punchy colour and imaginative chic new shapes, that pieces are good-looking enough to be focal points in all areas of the home.

If you want to make a statement, choose a rocker or a classic peacock-style chair. .

What are you waiting for? Work the weave at home, with a variety of beautiful products...

Store and stun

Keep it light Woven furniture won’t dominate a space, which makes it ideal for compact spaces and especially good for renters as it’s easily transportable, says Kate Butler, head of product design at Habitat.

Elmley natural curved rattan easy-to-fit ceiling shade, £90, Habitat

“Fast-growing materials like rattan and bamboo are increasingly becoming key materials for us, and we’re incorporating these strong and lightweight materials into more modern designs

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Lene Bjerre Ratia Chair – natural, currently reduced to £412.50 from £550, Sweetpea & Willow

Pear braided storage basket – large, £75, Cloudberry Living

We can never have enough storage – but there’s no reason it should be boring. Turn it into eyecandy with wicked weaves featuring soft, blushing shades, which can hold everything from household essentials to toys.

that take advantage of their versatility,” she explains. “They allow us to create more interesting 3D shapes, from fluid curves to angular forms, so we’re moving away from traditional rattan associations – which confined it to the conservatory – to more inspirational, contemporary ideas for the home that allow Open weave basket, large, £70, small £50, Garden Trading

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HOUSE & HOME

Giving August Impact Hydrangea aspera

With Joseph Atkin, head gardener at Aberglasney Gardens in Carmarthenshire Mid and late summer is an exciting time in the garden. The borders are usually bursting at the seams, taller perennials are coming to their statuesque best and annuals are reaching their peak. There are also some excellent bloomers that flower for a long time both before and after this peak time and which add real impact. Here are a few of the Aberglasney visitor favourites.

Hydrangea ‘Blue wave’

Salvia ‘Dayglow’ This relatively new salvia is a real breakthrough plant as it is perfectly hardy and seems to thrive in any sunny position. It makes a small shrub but works well in a herbaceous border with its fine leaves and hundreds of vivid pink flowers. Its most impressive quality though is that it starts flowering in June and at Aberglasney is still in flower at Christmas. The mass of vivid pink flowers combine beautifully with any hot colours or strong blues and purples. Other than halving the height of the plant every spring it requires no maintenance. Unlike many plants it also stays looking fresh all season and does not require dead heading.

This old variety is still one of the simplest and easiest blue Hydrangea to grow. An oldfashioned lace cap type with huge selfsupporting heads, it flowers from July to October. Blue wave is also one of the easiest to keep blue if you are not on acidic soil as it is much more resistant to changes in acidity. The glossy solid foliage is neat and impressive, placed next to something like an ornamental grass it makes an excellent foil or partner. Of all the traditional lace cap hydrangea this is one of our favourites and this is some accolade as Aberglasney grows well over a hundred different lace caps. ■ Height = 2m max ■ Spread = 3m max ■ Position/aspect = Out of strong winds ■ Soil = Any but acid gives the bluest flowers ■ Pest and diseases = No real problems ■ Style = Mixed border, lawn specimen, shrub border, woodland or even an informal hedge.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Delphinium ‘Faust’ Since the 1940s there have been huge improvements in delphinium breeding that have led to much better garden plants. ‘Faust’ is one of these improved varieties with large flowers creating imposing spires that make for a much more impressive display. Like all delphinium it provides a great deal of impact and is a particularly strong dark blue that works well with many other colours. It is a strong grower with impressive young foliage too and it works well with most traditional herbaceous perennials. Flowering from July to late August ‘Faust’ is a must have delphinium for any herbaceous border. ■ Height = 2m ■ Spread = 1m ■ Position/aspect = Any sunny ■ Soil = Any fertile but adding compost or manure makes a huge difference ■ Pest and diseases = Slugs are a problem on small plants ■ Style = Herbaceous, cottage garden, mixed border, prairie (its one of the easiest plants to combine). 90 SWANSEA LIFE

Height = 1m Spread = 1m Position/aspect = Any sunny Soil = Any except waterlogged Pest and diseases = No real problems Style = Hot border, tropical/exotic border, cottage garden, herbaceous or mixed border.

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HOUSE & HOME Palmera canvas, £99, Furniture Village Leaf patterned vase, £39, barkerand stonehouse.co.uk

Cup, £4.99, TK Maxx

Candle holders, £7.99, HomeSense

StayPa m These exotic prints have us dreaming of holidays in tropical climes

Silhouette cotton lampshade – tropical jungle in watermelon pink, £40, RedCandy.co.uk

Palm tree table lamp, £79, barkerand stonehouse. co.uk

Poundland Tikki range, all £1 from Poundland stores nationwide

Tropicana rug, £109, Furniture Village

Palm doormat, £19, RedCandy.co.uk Dahlia sofa in London Lagoon by Lucy Tiffney in Dawn, £2,040, Sofa.com Sofa cushions. From left: Fenella Smith toucan and palm print cushion, £35, John Lewis & Partners; Rainforest floral long scatter cushion, £12.50, Sainbury’s Home

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The Afan

Perfectly located for Swansea commuting Stylish 5 bed homes â&#x20AC;˘ Close to Heritage Coastline Highly specified throughout â&#x20AC;˘ Award winning quality llanmoor-homes.co.uk

The Afan

The Cadog

eglwys nunydd

A new luxury space to call home Luxury contemporary homes set within spacious plots and gardens and with part exchange available; Eglwys Nunydd offers the best in modern living. With superb build quality, generous accommodation and high specifications, these homes are truly exceptional.

luxurious designs We believe your Llanmoor home is a cut above the rest. You’ll experience imaginative use of light, open-plan living and outdoor space - giving the perfect mix of nature and modern interior design to these new homes.

“The quality of work that Llanmoor Homes provides is exceptional. There is a massive difference in comparison with other new home developments that we have seen.” superior location

We’re also committed to delivering the highest standards of Customer Service, the same exacting standards that have helped us win multiple quality awards, year after year.

Step out of your front door at Eglwys Nunydd and you will be greeted by an abundance of footpaths on which you can explore the surrounding countryside.

In a semi-rural location, just off Junction 38 of the M4 Motorway, these homes are perfectly located for easy commuting to and from Swansea.

Here the spirit of life is enriched by the lush green landscapes and surrounding belt of countryside there’s plenty to keep both walkers and riders busy.

Prices from £534,995.00 to £609,995.00

If you wanted to venture slightly further afield, the scenic Gower Peninsula can be reached in less than 50 minutes.

llanmoor-homes.co.uk

Experience our homes like never before... At Llanmoor, we pride ourselves on being forwardthinking and offering an unbeatable service. Immerse yourself in one of our homes through the virtual reality feature available on our website.

Essentials on your doorstep The sought-after location of Eglwys Nunydd offers all the trappings of traditional village life, right on your doorstep. Situated in a semi-rural setting, but close to J38 of the M4 motorway for easy commuting. With plenty of local amenities and a connected location, these five bedroom homes are perfectly situated to give you great access to Cardiff, Swansea, Bristol and beyond. llanmoor-homes.co.uk

We understand how difficult it can be to find time to visit a development yourself, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why our Virtual Reality tours allow you to navigate our impressive view home all from the very comfort of your own. Alternatively to get a real flavour for these beautiful homes call in to our sales centre.

For the active amongst us, there are several golf courses just a few miles away including Southerndown and Royal Porthcawl. Margam Country Park with its beautiful orangery and circa 850 acres of open space is located just a few minutes away You can also book a wide range of leisure activities, including for those who enjoy watersports. Aberavon with its extensive beach and seafront is close by.

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Couple return to Welsh soil and find their dream home in Margam Jeffrey Thomas, 60, and wife Janet, 57, are excited to start the next chapter of their life after returning to Wales and moving into their brand new Llanmoor Home having spent the last 30 years in the Middle East. They have recently purchased a Cadog design home at Llanmoor’s exclusive Eglwys Nunydd, a superior new development of high specification, 5-bedroom homes on spacious plots, offering the very best in modern living.

“The quality of work that Llanmoor Homes provides is exceptional. There is a massive difference in comparison with other new home developments that we have seen.”

Previously from Port Talbot, the couple had originally planned to return to the Cardiff area. Upon their return to Wales, they rented a home in Cowbridge as a stop gap while they pursued the idea of building their own home. Although this had been their original plan, a change in circumstances with their rented property meant that Jeffrey and Janet decided to explore the option of buying a newbuild property instead. Jeffrey said: “We researched a variety of housebuilders around the Cardiff area. Margam had not been in our initial plan as we had wanted to be near Cardiff where our daughter studies at University.” However, the Eglwys Nunydd development in Margam changed everything. The luxurious design and spacious living areas were hard to shift from their minds. He added: “We had seen the Margam homes previously, my wife and I loved them, so we said let’s go back and take another look.”

Manager and Sales Negotiator are fantastic. Their aftercare is excellent, and they could not have done more to help.” “We’ve heard horror stories of couples who have brought from other homebuilders, such as not doing what they say they will, whereas Llanmoor are extremely co-operative and always ready to help.” “Their high standards are without a doubt a result of the pride that the Site Manager has for the homes that he and his team build.”

Originating from the area meant that Margam was an ideal location, allowing the pair to be closer to their families. An idea that was warmly welcomed after spending the last 30 years being nearly 4,000 miles apart.

“People ought to be recognised for the high standard of work they complete. Both Dale, Sue and their teams do a fantastic job. They and the Company have multiple awards to prove such high standards are being achieved”

“We love living back in close proximity with family and friends, as well as all that the area has to offer.”

“Llanmoor is a family run business and that shows through the standard of work and service they provide.”

Margam Country Park is a firm favourite for the Thomas family, and they are thrilled with the location of their home which is just a short distance away. The development is situated in a semi-rural location, but close to the J38 of the M4 for easy commuting.

“For us, it’s so great to be back after so long away, choosing Llanmoor and moving to Margam has been a great decision for our family.”

Jeffrey continued: “The presentation has been outstanding, and the Site

Find out more about the exclusive development by contacting the Margam sales team at 07498 279086 or visit www.llanmoor-homes.com.

Just 6 homes remaining!

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Sales centre + View home open: 11am – 5pm Thurs – Mon Incl Eglwys Nunydd, Margam, Port Talbot SA13 2PS

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HOUSE & HOME

create your ‘appy’ home Interior stylist Heather Milner reveals her go-to sources for ideas and project-plotting. By Gabrielle Fagan

Whether you’re renovating your first house, embarking on a project or simply want to revamp a room, there’s a surprising list of things to think about before you get started – from nailing the latest trends, choosing colours, making special buys and ensuring everything fits your space.

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insideherhome.com, has tested some of the best ones out there and chosen her favourites. Check out Milner’s top go-to apps (good news – most of them are free) and find out how they could help you transform your home...

It can be time-consuming and nerveracking, as we all want to avoid expensive mistakes – and create spaces that reflect our style and personality. Thankfully, there’s now a whole host of interior design apps out there to help make the process way easier.

“It’s a true staple for gathering inspiration! I love the fact that you can discover so many independent makers and craftsmen with just the scroll of a thumb,” says Milner.

Interior stylist Heather Milner, who reveals her home style inspirations and tips through her Instagram and blog,

WHAT IT DOES: “If you like sourcing unique, one-off items and want to avoid having the same pieces as everyone else,

1. Instagram

Instagram is the perfect place to find them,” Milner says. She points out that the site’s making it even easier to filter through the reams of interior design content with its ‘save’ feature, which allows you to store images and return to them at a later date. (Free across all platforms)

2. Dulux Visualiser

“Updating a wall colour is a simple design fix and the right shade can absolutely transform a room, but choosing it from the huge range available (not to mention the sometimes bewildering names!) can be tricky to say the least,” says Milner. “Make the wrong choice and it’s an annoying and expensive mistake to fix, so getting it right first time is superimportant.”

5. ArtSee

“I’m a great fan of art and love collecting it, which is why this is one of my go-to apps,” says Milner. “Also, if a gallery wall is what your living room or bedroom is crying out for, this could really help you visualise an art line-up.” WHAT IT DOES: It allows you to visualise the layout and look of art on your wall. You can take a photo of a wall, add an art image taken at a fair or seen in a shop or gallery, and show it to scale. Or, choose from room views available already on the app. It also has a range of colour art prints to buy. (£9.99 to download on iOS and Android)

“I also use it to search for architects, home improvement contractors and tradesmen, because you can read real reviews and browse through their past projects to make sure they’re exactly what you are looking for and are suitable for a particular project.”

3. magicplan

WHAT IT DOES: This app can be a great aid, she says, because it transforms the painstaking ordeal of taking measurements and drawing up floor plans into an effortless process. It can compute distances within a space simply by analysing a snapshot. It creates a professional-grade floor plan for your room, so you can see exactly what should go where. (Free on iOS and Android)

4. iHandy Carpenter

“I love this app, which is a carpentry toolkit, perfect for using for small DIY jobs, and avoids the need to invest in expensive tools or pay for a handyman,” enthuses Milner. WHAT IT DOES: It has five tools, including plumb bob, surface level, bubble level bar, protractor that measures 0-180-degree angles, and a ruler available in both inches and centimetres, she explains. By swiping left and right, the ruler is capable of measuring things much longer than your iPhone, but it’s wise to calibrate the app’s measurement tools first before any serious usage. (£1.99 on iOS and £1.54 on Android)

“Its fun add-ons include hanging display kits for your prints, which make it easy to display photos around the house as well as being great for mood-boarding.” (Free to download on iOS and Android)

“It’s a total Aladdin’s cave of inspiration because there are so many images to suit every style and taste,” enthuses Milner. “I particularly like that you can collect and share ideas through a virtual ‘ideas book’. It’s a great way to see what fellow home renovators are inspired by and access any tips/hacks the Houzz community have.

Top tip: Don’t overlook the simplest way of checking whether a particular colour works in your home by using tester pots and A2 sheets of paper, Milner advises. (Free to download on iOS and Android)

“It can be so hard to visualise how, and if, an individual piece will fit in the space, and it’s hugely disappointing and costly if furniture doesn’t feel right once in situ.”

WHAT IT DOES: A free photo-printing service which lets you print 18 photos (£3.99 for delivery, and extras, such as a Hanging Kit, are paid for separately). “I take all my favourite pictures of furniture, home accessories and colour inspiration and print them via the app and then spend hours playing around with them to spark new ideas,” says Milner.

7. Houzz

WHAT IT DOES: The Dulux Visualiser uses augmented reality to show how its range of colours will look in your living space. You can save and share the images if you want to get a second opinion, and buy your testers and paint directly from the site. It all helps make it easy to turn your vision into a reality.

“One of the biggest challenges people have is being confident about making the jump from falling in love with an item they’ve seen in a shop or magazine, to biting the bullet and purchasing it,” says Milner.

but there is something about a physical mood board that I just love and PixPax is a great way to bring your ideas to life.”

6. PixPax

“Before you start any interior design project, you should always get a really great mood board in place,” says Milner. “It helps you collate all your inspiration and play around with different colour themes and styles. “There’s lots of ways you can do this digitally,

WHAT IT DOES: Users can get inspiration from more than 19 million high-resolution photos of home interiors and exteriors, all searchable by style, location or room. Bridging the gap between homeowners and home-improvement professionals, it can be used for planning projects from start to finish too, and finding professionals to help with any jobs from a directory of more than 2.4 million, including architects, interior designers, landscapers and builders. (Free across all platforms).

HOUSE & HOME

Transform your greenhouse from messy junkyard to rustic retreat Hannah Stephenson reveals how to banish the greenhouse clutter and create a horticultural haven instead If you’re tripping over compost bags, battling with broken pots and spent seed trays and can’t find a tool in sight, your greenhouse may be in need of a serious makeover. Smart gardeners can create a space that’s not only useful for growing plants but acts as an extension of their home - a stylish, comfortable bolthole through the warmer 104 SWANSEA LIFE

months and beyond, with the help of a little furniture, cushions, wall art and some nifty tidying accessories. Where to start with your makeover? Follow this greenhouse guide for inspiration, including tips from garden styling pros and Richard Baggaley, director of The Greenhouse People (greenhousepeople.co.uk)...

among the most beautiful and exotic greenhouse plants. They require a high level of humidity though, so store your misting bottle nearby to keep your orchid healthy. Tom Barry, managing director of Hartley Botanic (hartley-botanic. co.uk), adds: “Architectural tropical and subtropical species are still very popular with both homeowners and gardeners alike. “These plants look dramatic and add height within a greenhouse which works well when combined with bench-level succulents and cacti. For colour, and to add an exotic look, orchids in pretty ‘sweet shop’ colours can be grown in individual pots.”

3. Create a cosy nook Acclaimed author and botanical stylist Selina Lake (Selinalake.co.uk), who styled for Alitex (Alitex.co.uk) at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, suggests you update tired items such as old chairs, metal furniture or plant pots by adding a pop of colour with paints. A simple bench can be turned into a sumptuous day bed with a mass of comfy cushions.

4. Use insect designs Entomology, or the study of insects, is the new botanical trend, adds Lake. Get the look by having a go at drawing bugs on greenhouse windows using a chalk pen. Add prints and posters in frames or clipped to bare walls and use a wire washing line for another display.

8. Create a herb haven Drying herbs in a greenhouse is ideal as they dry quickly under the concentrated sunlight, add scent to the space, and look decorative. Lavender, sage and thyme retain their fragrance when dried – just try to keep them out of direct sun. They dry quickly, so check periodically and package for storage as soon as they are crisp.

9. Use your greenhouse as a gallery To add further interiors-inspired touches to your greenhouse, wall art is a great option to make the space ooze personality and feel more like a home. Get creative and create your own works of art to display. You could decorate a canvas with cuttings from garden magazines, known in the art world as ‘decoupage’, for garden inspiration as well as decoration.

5. Go for a natural look 1. Create a potting corner To prevent clutter in your greenhouse, carefully plan your layout and segment the space into purposeful areas. Create a potting corner next to where you grow your fruit and vegetables to make planting more efficient and to save space. This area needn’t be dull. Place seed packets in a brightly coloured tin to store them safely and add a pop of colour to your greenhouse. Rather than leaving tools in a chaotic heap, a row of hooks will keep everything off the floor and neatly stored.

2. Be bold with plant choice The greenhouse needn’t just be a space to nurture seedlings. Exotic and tender plants will thrive in the warm environment and brighten up the space. Fill your greenhouse with a range of desert and succulent plants like cactus, agave and crassula. These easy-care plants flourish inside a greenhouse and are very on-trend. If botany is more your style, orchids are

‘Upcycling’ is the word on everyone’s lips – and for a good reason. With items sourced from second-hand shops, or even junkyards, it’s easy to go boho on a budget. Simple changes like a lick of paint on wooden furniture or changing the handles on drawers can have a huge impact, says Baggaley. In line with environmental issues, forgo plastic items for furniture and accessories made from natural materials such as metals, rattan and bamboo.

6. Find space to sit Baggaley advises: “Add comfort to your glass-walled structure with seating and soft furnishings. Textiles will instantly soften the space and make it feel inviting. “Be aware that these will fade under the concentrated sunlight, so shop for items with a vintage-inspired design or are second hand to accomplish the shabby-chic look.”

7. Make use of mirrors Add mirrors inside your greenhouse to reflect light and the sight of your beautiful plants, Baggaley says. Careful placement will give the illusion of more space but do consider what it will be reflecting. Try to reflect the leafy interest in your greenhouse, rather than watering cans or plastic pots. SWANSEA LIFE 105

Designing dreams & making them real… is what Kitchens by Emma Reed is all about Have you ever wanted to renovate or renew your kitchen but you could never find exactly what you wanted? Have you compromised on certain features or desires because what you did find ticked most of your boxes? At Kitchens by Emma Reed, Emma doesn’t believe in compromises when it comes to kitchens. That’s why her company exists in the first place.

Who is Emma? Talented kitchen designer, dedicated mum, and renowned businesswoman, Emma Reed, has spent the last decade building her skills in design and innovation

whilst refining her experience in customer care. Her journey started as Sales Director at Enterprise2000. Originally an appliance sales business, once Emma came on board, she designed, built and ran their kitchen department which propelled the business forward. It wasn’t long before Enterprise2000 Kitchens & Appliances became a highly successful and sustainable business, and Emma’s kitchen knowledge, design skills, and exceptional customer care played a massive hand in this. Her efforts and remarkable results didn’t go unnoticed either, as not soon after did she win the Business Woman of the Year Award for business growth and expansion. Emma was extremely proud of this achievement, not only for herself but for the business; this award showed her and her customers that what makes a small business unique is a personalised service and

exceptional customer care, both of which are essential to business success. Fast forward a few years and Emma’s journey brings her to launching her own business. Towards the end of 2018, Emma thought it was time to take the kitchens to the next level which led her to take over the kitchen department of Enterprise2000 as an independent owner. Emma wanted to get back to her roots and completely focus on her passion for kitchen design so Kitchens by Emma Reed was born. Since the launch in the New Year, the new business is booming! Emma worked extremely hard to design a new kitchen showroom which is unrivalled in the area and with her skills in design, her in-depth appliance knowledge, and her extraordinary customer service, the business is growing every single day.

Why choose Kitchens by Emma Reed? “My business is focused solely on making people’s dream kitchen a reality. That’s it in a nutshell and how do I do it? Through designing exactly what they want in a way that is practical, stylish, and longlasting. I get to live my dream every day, waking up with excitement to flex my design muscles and start creating a range of masterpieces. This excitement is how I want my customers to feel when they see their dream kitchen in their own homes.” – Emma Reed Kitchens by Emma Reed is a unique company focused on kitchen design and installation. Boasting one of the largest independent showrooms in the South Wales region, the company provides one of the biggest product selections on display allowing customers to view multiple kitchen ranges. Working directly with Symphony Kitchens, the UK’s leading kitchen manufacturer, this allows Kitchens by Emma Reed to provide clients with choice and all at competitive prices. The real element of the business that makes it unique, however, is the free kitchen design offer. Emma believes in innovation, flair and quality that is cost-effective, so as an expert kitchen designer, she will work closely with you to help you to create a kitchen that fits your exact needs

but one that also transforms your space. Complete with a specialist team that will cater to your every need, Kitchens by Emma Reed truly offers a client service that will always be remembered. Emma is passionate about design because the imagination can create anything you desire. Designing a new kitchen means making the most of the space you have whilst not compromising on any of your needs or desires. If you want your kitchen dreams to become your reality:

Find more information at www.kitchensbyemmareed.co.uk Or contact: emma@kitchensbyemmareed.co.uk 01792 712000

Top Tips

from Emma Why do I need a kitchen designer? A kitchen designer gives youâ&#x20AC;Ś 1) Personal advice and guidance 2) Expert knowledge on trends, styles and colours 3) Beautiful yet functional designs that suit your space

How can I make the most of my space? Our top 5 kitchen design tips are to: 1) Think and plan ahead 2) Make room for storage 3) Consider lighting 4) Check appliance size and power sources 5) Maximise your counter space

01792 712000 www.kitchensbyemmareed.co.uk Castell Close, Enterprise Park, Swansea SA7 9FH

KitchensByEmma

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HOUSE & HOME

Bright design tricks to maximise light in your home From curtains to decluttering and mirrored furniture, Luke Rix-Standing reveals nifty ways to give any home that dreamy light and airy feel

sk any interior designer: Light is one of – if not the – most important consideration in the layout of a home.

Quite apart from being essential (cooking in the dark is not advised), light provides the framework for a home’s aesthetic, and the foundation for its – to use a technical term – ambience. It doesn’t matter how well you’ve feng shuied your cellar – if it’s lit by a single, flickering bulb, it’s still going to feel like the set of a horror movie. Consider the persistent (if factually shaky) notion that sun-soaked, south-facing dwellings command a hefty premium on the property market, or the enduring trend for modern, glass-plated office blocks that quite literally have windows instead of walls. Here’s how to make your home the brightest and best it can be, from streaming sunbeams to energy-saving LEDs...

 Make a proper plan Most people know that when it comes to light sources, more is usually merrier. But the

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result is that homeowners load up expensive fixings without taking care of even the simplest practical alterations. For immediate improvement, a short recce goes a long way: Look at the location of your windows, what they’re illuminating, and what you want them to illuminate. Take a note of where the sun comes from in each part of the day, and if any rooms seem particularly drab and gloomy. With your stock-take complete, move furniture that might be blocking a window’s view, and clear out cluttered windowsills. If you have several electric lights covering a space usually bathed in sunshine, rejig your room rather than spending a fortune adding to it. Consider moving obstacles outside your home too. If your climbing hydrangea has launched a hostile takeover against your windowpanes, it’s time to call in the garden shears.

 90% light, 10% dark Assuming that you do, in fact, have windows, your next key point should be colour. Pure white surfaces can feel a little cold, but off-white or light cream is a shoo-in for walls and ceilings when cultivating a brighter feel.

Soft hues absorb far less light than dark ones, and for the most radiant rooms you should look beyond the masonry. Consider pastel-coloured cupboards, pale wood furniture, or light-hued decorations. There’s nothing wrong with a black leather sofa, or some statement, patterned wallpaper, but they won’t necessarily help your rooms retain light. Aesthetically, many designers opt to add in darker trimmings. Cushions, knick-knacks and other smaller furnishings look great in dark grey or navy, and provide contrast without significantly sacrificing light.

 Lots of mirrors If you’re looking to increase your intake of natural light, mirrors are perhaps the most literal way of doing so. They reflect light that would otherwise be absorbed into the wall, and hanging one opposite a window sends daylight bouncing round the room. Wall-mounted mirrors are a go-to for grooming as much as for decor, and fashionconscious bedrooms often boast something free-standing and full-length. Next level homeowners could employ mirrored furniture – mirrored tables, mirrored wardrobes, even a mirrored chest of drawers.

Large mirrors give the illusion of a much larger, lighter space, and if the room feels bright and breezy, so too will its reflection.

 Window dressing Your windows are your main allies in your fight for light, so you’d be wise to give them plenty of tender loving care. Blinds are a good bet for a light-heavy home, leaving the window entirely exposed when open and creating lovely lines of light when down. They can’t produce blackouts, so are less advisable in the bedroom of a light sleeper. Light linen or cotton curtains are similarly appropriate - and can be hung in layers to more closely control the flow of light. Heavier, thicker fabrics like velvets and brocades are generally more accustomed to blocking light, while wide-slat shutters are flexible and channel a Mediterranean feel.

 The lighting of the lamps Natural light tends to gobble up the headlines, but artificial light is where the buck stops. Let’s divide it into three stylistic varieties. Ambient lighting diffuses evenly through a room, and is usually the starting point for a larger scheme. Think ceiling lights, perhaps integrated with lamps on floors or tables. Naturally, ambient lighting isn’t strong on contrast, so try some accent lighting to help instil separation. Accent lighting is brighter and much more directional, ensuring centrepieces like dining room tables get the focus they deserve. Make sure these lights are not so concentrated that they behave like spotlights. You don’t want to channel a the sort of aggressive glare normally reserved for police interrogation rooms. Finally, consider task lighting – very strong light sources marshalled for specific purposes. Think downward-facing desk lamps that can illuminate a keyboard clear

as day, or a row of bulbs as floodlights for a worktop. There’s no point illuminating the corridor with pixel-perfect high-def, if your closet is so dimly-lit all your darker clothes merge into one. Keep these principles in mind when allotting wattage in your home, and where possible try before you buy. Road-test bulb brightness, or better yet employ a dimmer switch.

Top towel rails

 Wash your walls No, not with soapy water – in this context washing your wall means to splash light across a surface, creating the illusion that the whole room is aglow. Consider vertical light fixings, that send a warm light upwards and downwards, creating a sheet-like glow across a wall. It’s better to bathe an area with one effective light source than pepper it with unattractive fixings.

RETRO CHARM

Freestanding metal towel rail with basket storage, was £98.95, now £71.96 MelodyMaison.co.uk

 Structural changes For those with the time, inclination and, most of all, the money, there are plenty of home improvements that can turn dingy dungeon to gleaming greenhouse. Some are obvious – more and bigger windows, glass patio doors and so on – but others are slightly less intuitive.

STEP TO IT

Hambledon towel ladder in raw oak, £110 Gardentrading.co.uk

Skylights are an oft-neglected sub-genre of window – the light comes straight from source and can often spread across an entire floor space. Thick-set, dark-coloured doors can keep natural light from reaching the heart of your home, so consider glass panelling even on doors that don’t open into the air. Next-level homeowners can go one better by embracing a more open-plan layout throughout their dwelling.

PIPE DREAM

Copper pipe corner towel rail, £61 limelace.co.uk

Though not traditionally a light-emitting surface, even the floor can play its part. Opting for polished, well-finished hardwood, ceramic or stone can keep light ricocheting off your interiors like an underfoot mirror.

WARM & DRY

Salzburg traditional Victorian chrome and white towel rail radiator, £149.97 bathroomtakeaway.com

SWANSEA LIFE 113

MOTORING

ike its bigger stablemates, it is a luxury 4x4 SUV that has just about everything including excellent engines, off-road capability and state-of-the-art technology and it comes with its own personality, expression and character.

Volvo says the XC40 is defined by a strong graphical design, a real feeling of strength and quality and a more playful nature in terms of colours and materials. Marketing speak for smaller and cheaper than the big ‘cousins’, but the same quality is apparent throughout. It has the same nod to Nordic mythology with the signature ‘Thor’s hammer’ light design, the LEDs built into the front light clusters in the shape of the Norse god’s hammer. Cheaper, the model range starts at just over £28k, but is still pretty well equipped. There are a number of power units and the twolitre petrol model here, mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox, delivers an impressive 190bhp, for plenty of pace but with decent economy. It hits 60mph in under 8.2 seconds, while delivering official economy of around 40.4mpg The interior on this model features leatherfaced upholstery, soft touch trim to doors and dashboard and neat chrome touches.

smaller, but perfectly formed Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery but despite Volvo saying design-wise, the new XC40 compact crossover is more of a cousin than a sibling to the larger 90 and 60 Series cars,there is no doubt it a chip off the same block, writes Patrick James configured to allow the car to pre-book itself for a service.

The dash is dominated by a nine-inch, tablet-style touchscreen which controls major functions with voice activation, like the Sensus sat nav (which has full European mapping with traffic information and map updates, infotainment), climate and phone connectivity via Android and Appleplay as well as a number of apps and web browser capability.

Car information can also be monitored on a 12.3inch active TFT driver’s information display behind the smart, multi-function steering wheel.

Volvo On Call allows your smart phone or tablet to control various functions remotely and is an emergency tracking service.

Well equipped it may be, but like many of its competitors you can spends thousands on add toys and goodies, which on this model included the Xenium Pack, comprising powered panoramic sunroof, automatic parking assist and 3600 camera.

In fact, the latest Sensus connect can even be

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Standard kit on all models includes heated front seats, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, dual-zone climate control, rear parking sensors, cruise control, hill start assist and cruise control.

Handling is better than it’s bigger stablemates feeling composed and bends, while the ride is comfortable but firm. Volvo has always been at the forefront for safety and this car is no exception with its raft of technologies, such as autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian, animal and cyclist detection and front collision warning. Also standard are full set of airbags and lane mitigation, which steers you back into the correct lane if drifting. Smaller of the three XCs, but still pretty well formed.

FAST FACTS

Volvo XC40 T4 Momentum Pro AWD ■ Price: £32,770 ■ Mechanical: 190bhp, 1,969cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving four wheels via 8-speed automatic gearbox ■ Max speed: 130mph ■ 0-62mph: 8.2 seconds ■ Combined mpg: 40.6 ■ Insurance group: 26 ■ CO2 emissions: 163g/km ■ BiK rating: 36% ■ Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles

MOTORING

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 Impressive in form and function Unveiled in Ford Performance Blue with contrasting dyno grey accents, the new Ranger Raptor’s aggressive design is driven by performance and functionality. A dramatic new grille inspired by the world’s first factory-built high performance off road truck – the Ford F-150 Raptor – dominates the space between the xenon high-intensity discharge headlights and above a frame mounted front-bumper system. Offering desert durability performance, the front bumper also includes new LED fog lamps with functional air-curtain ducts that improve air flow around the body. Striking, flared composite front fenders are designed to shrug off damage from off-road usage, and allow for longer suspension travel and oversized tires. The side step boards are designed specifically to prevent rock spray from hitting the rear of the truck, and feature drain points for sand, mud and snow.  Rugged yet refined Built to withstand high-impact off-road events, Ranger Raptor’s unique, super-strong reinforced chassis frame uses high-strength, low-alloy steels to endure the punishment delivered by off-road racing. Raptor’s race-bred suspension has been specifically crafted to tackle fearsome terrain 116 SWANSEA LIFE

at high-speed while remaining in complete control and comfort. FOX shock absorbers with Position Sensitive Damping provide higher damping forces at extremes for unparalleled off-road capability, and lower damping forces in more moderate conditions for a smoother ride on-road. “The standout experience of the Ranger Raptor, hands down, is how far you can push it off-road and still ride like a millionaire on-road,” said Damien Ross, chief program engineer, Ranger Raptor, Ford Motor Company. “Everything about the Ranger Raptor builds on the already outstanding sophisticated feel and functional capability of the Ranger, and then goes further. From a driving dynamic fun standpoint, it is really an exceptionally special vehicle.”  Tuned for all Terrains Ranger Raptor enables drivers to select from six Terrain Management System modes to tackle a wide range of terrain and driving scenarios, including: •

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 Practical technology at hand Sophisticated technologies designed to make the new Ranger Raptor comfortable and convenient on- or off-road include Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system, which enables drivers to control audio, navigation and connected smartphones using simple, conversational voice commands. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™, and features SYNC AppLink for voice-activation of a range of smartphone apps. “The new Ranger Raptor delivers all the tools a thrill-seeker could ask for,” Roeks said. “Like a motocross bike, snowmobile and an ATV in one – it’s the ultimate adventure pick-up.”

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Model shown are Ranger Raptor Double Cab, 2.0L EcoBlue 213PS Auto . Fuel economy Mpg (l/100km) (Combined): 31.7 (8.9) *CO2 Emissions 233g/km.

Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. *There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures. The CO2 figures shown, however, are based on the outgoing test cycleand will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. ^Retail sales only. Finance subject to status. Freepost Ford Credit. C E M Day - Swansea only offers finance products from Ford Credit. C E M Day - Swansea acts as a credit broker in relation to finance products, and not a lender. Terms and Conditions Apply, Retail customers only. Pictures for illustration purposes only. Details correct at time of going to press.

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OUT & ABOUT

A N D R E W

M O R G A N ’ S

SWANSEA BAY WALK Join Andrew as he leads us on a Swansea Bay walk

Start/finish location .......... Minor road across Ryer’s Down Distance ..................................... 4.5 miles (3 hours) Level ............................................. Moderate Parking ........................................ At side of road

Burry and Ryer’s Down One of the last walks on Swansea Ramblers’ summer programme is a nice circular walk with views of coast and country. On Saturday, September 28, we will head north-east across the access land of Ryer’s Down, heading for the path that takes you to the top. You can also use the gravel lane off the road at the northernmost extremity of the common. Reaching the high ground, you can turn right to visit the trig point and enjoy the views over Loughor Estuary. Descend the hill, bearing slightly left to the footpath at the bottom where you turn left to enter and descend into woodland. This ancient lane leads to a small, hidden, but historic arched pack-horse bridge over the stream, its construction pointing to the importance of the route in bygone days. At the crossroad of paths, turn right to follow the path for some way through fields, passing by a converted mill to use its access track to reach the road. Here watch out for fast traffic as you’ll be using the road and lanes for some time. Turn right then take the left fork to leave the main road and join a single track road. We’ll follow this past Fairyhill to a road junction then turn right on the road. At the next road junction turn left then soon you come to a

footpath on the right. This follows the edge of a garden and heads uphill. In a large field, head diagonally right to follow the footpath into the next field. Watch for footpaths signs and follow the right hedgerow past a few fields until the path enters a field on the right. Go diagonally left to a stile into more arable land. Go straight on towards the far end of the field. If the field still has crops, it may be difficult to see the route turning right in the middle of the field so you may have to follow the field boundary right. On the opposite side of the field, another stile takes you into a different field and you continue straight on with the hedgerow to your left to a second stile. Meeting another footpath on the left, follow this north by the stream until you reach the road. Carefully cross the busy road and go straight ahead back to the start point.

Upcoming walks

september 2019 Sun 01 Cwm Irfon (10 miles) Strenuous meet 9am Cross Hands (Heol Parc Mawr) Wed 04 Rhossili (8 miles) Moderate meet 10am Rhossili Church CP Sat 07 Cribarth (6 miles) Moderate meet 9.45am Guildhall (Francis St) Sun 08 Afan Valley (11 miles) Strenuous meet 9am Guildhall (Francis St) Tue 10 Evening Walk: Three Crosses (2.5 miles) Easy meet 6.30pm Three Crosses: Joiners Pub Car Park

Remember you are very welcome to walk this route or any other with Swansea Ramblers. We’ll meet at 11am. Our winter programme begins in October and we will be looking forward to some lovely winter walks during the following six months. Check the details on the web site and contact us if you want to know more. Transport: Traveline: www.traveline-cymru.info • 0871 200 22 33 or BayTrans: www.baytrans.org.uk/ Visit our website: www.swansearamblers.org.uk

Wed 11 Pennard Circular (6 miles) Moderate meet 10am Pennard: Golf Club car park Sat 14 Cwmcerdinen (6 miles) Moderate meet 10.15am Felindre: Park & Ride (car share) Sun 15 Mynydd Myddfai (11 miles) Strenuous meet 8.45am Guildhall (Francis St) Mon 16 Margam Park Pulpit (3 miles) Easy/ Moderate meet 10am Margam Park: Fishing Lake Car Park Wed 18 Foel Fynyddau (6 miles) Moderate meet 10am Pontrhydyfen: Rhyslyn Car Park SWANSEA LIFE 121

OUT & ABOUT

Kate Humble

The travel bug Kate Humble talks to Luke Rix-Standing about the highs and lows of being a compulsive traveller. It’s all about wildlifewatching, Tanzanian hitch-hiking, and temperatures of -56 apparently!

122 SWANSEA LIFE

What first fired your interest in travel? “I come from a restless family – my grandparents were great travellers, in a time when travel wasn’t easy – and I’ve inherited those genes in spades. “When I was doing O-levels at 16 – back when dinosaurs ruled the earth – they introduced a European rail card, and for £100, you could get on every train round Europe. I thought this was the most exciting thing I’d ever heard, so I saved and saved to buy one. “My dad then gave me £100 spending money, so I had £100 for a month in Europe. I slept in a lot of stations and under a lot of benches, but it was such an adventure.” Was that trip your formative travel experience? “When I left school, I had a burning desire to go to Africa, and that trip was really the formative one. At 19, I flew to Johannesburg by myself with £800 and a

backpack. I was away for the best part of a year. “There were two stand-outs from that trip. First, the wildlife – when you see unfamiliar animals, you can’t help but notice them, and when I came home, it made me appreciate the wildlife on my doorstep. Secondly, I learnt a huge amount about people, and the extraordinary generosity and depth of human spirit among the people with least in the world. “It was incredibly brave of my parents, who would rather I’d have gone to university. But for me, this was a far more valuable experience. It was the most amazing, amazing journey.” What have been your cultural highlights? “I made three films about nomadic people a few years ago, and I spent some time with Mongolian nomads living in the Gobi Desert. I was blown away by their understanding of their environment, and how they work with the land rather than battling against it.”

“Even more extreme are the Nenets – reindeer herders living in Russian Siberia. The day I was with them, it was minus 56 – you couldn’t breathe it was so cold – and then during summer, it reaches plus 40 with mosquitoes the size of aeroplanes.

“That is what travelling is all about though. I travel to have experiences - if I wanted to stay in a swanky hotel, I could do that in London.”

How do you shoot in these places - do you have camera crews, lights and make-up?

You’ve been to some quite dangerous places – have things ever gotten hairy?

You always seem very positive about your experiences abroad. Have you ever found yourself struggling?

“No, this isn’t Strictly, there are no lights and definitely no make-up – why do you think I look so s**t on the telly?!

“Of course there are hairy situations. I was filming in Kenya a couple of years ago and someone threatened to kill me - they had spears and everything.

“Oh yes, it can be miserable. When you’ve been in the back of a truck with no suspension for 14 hours, squashed with six people on a seat made for three, often getting out to push through potholes, you do think ‘wouldn’t it be nice to have a private jet’. “I’ve been really cold so many times, and resented how hard it is for women to go to the loo in the middle of nowhere, while it’s so comparatively easy for men. When I cycled round Cuba with my husband, we did 100 miles in a day to reach the place we were supposed to stay. There was nothing there, and we had to sleep in a ditch.

“On the other hand, I remember hitching a lift in Tanzania on my first ever journey, and getting picked up by a truck filled with workers. They missed my turning and I suddenly felt very vulnerable - there were 15 blokes and me. When I told the driver, he looked absolutely stricken, and said ‘I’m so sorry, you must have been so scared’. I said I hadn’t been - a lie - and would walk back, but he wouldn’t hear of it, flagged down a taxi, and paid. “There may come a time that it doesn’t end so happily, but I have huge faith in basic human nature. If you behave the best that you can, I think you get back what you put in.”

“The types of documentaries I make have minimal crew. It’s partly economic, but partly because it’s the best way to make a programme. You want to be as mobile, low-key, and low-impact as possible, and we’re often on foot, so you can’t have a huge entourage. What’s your Desert Island Discs item – the one thing you can’t travel without? “It would be a book. I do have a kindle, which I’m slightly cross about, because I love the tangibility of a book, but it’s unbelievable to be able to take thousands of books away at less than the weight of one.” “Cycling round Cuba with ten books in my bag was b****y hard.”

SWANSEA LIFE 123

WHAT’S ON

September SEVEN GOOD THINGS TO DO GOWER MACMARATHON

WHERE? Rhossili, Gower WHEN? Saturday, September 14.

The event has got staying power - it’s in its 22nd year - and that is exactly what you will need to get around this 22 mile route. It is a hike which allows you to take in some fabulous coastal views as you wend your way around from Rhossili to Mumbles Cricket Club. The multi-terrain walk will see participants tackle an abundance of surfaces, including sand, road, grass, woodland and even a small stream at Oxwich. For the very hardy there is the long haul from Rhossili, but the good news for those who would prefer something a little less challenging is that there is a 14-mile option from Port Eynon, also finishing at the cricket club at Marespool. Every step of the way will be worth it as all the money raised goes towards Macmillan Cancer Support. Last year’s walk raised an incredible £186,237.

Entries: Visit www.macmillan.org.uk/get-involved/ fundraising-events/event-detail/1851/gower

Swansea International Wine Festival WHERE? National Waterfront Museum, Swansea WHEN? September 21, 6.30pm -11.30pm

Following on from the hugely successful first event in 2018, ND John is bringing back its Swansea Wine Fair again this month. The National Waterfront Museum will be transformed into a wine, beer and spirits wonderland – the highlight of every drinks-lover’s calendar with the opportunity to browse and taste from hundreds of wines on offer, all included in the ticket price. Grab a glass and brochure and move from table to table to taste from the hundreds of wines, craft beers and gins on offer. Many of the exhibitors will also have special deals on their drinks, so you can treat yourself to your favourites. Organisers are promising what they say will be unlimited samples on offer, so get ready to dip yourself in deliciousness and find something to thrill you from your tongue to your toes! TICKETS: £15 • Tel: 0300 111 2 333

ADMIRAL SWANSEA BAY 10K

WHEN: September 22, 11am The Admiral Swansea Bay 10k takes place along the beautiful sweep of Swansea Bay and is open to all abilities aged 15-plus. The course is a firm favourite with both experienced and first time runners, as its fast and flat route is a perfect introduction to road running, and perfect for improving your personal best. Starting alongside St Helen’s Rugby Ground, the first half of the course follows the road down to Mumbles, before returning along the stunning Swansea prom. The course finishes as you run through the iconic Slip Bridge towards the Cenotaph. It’s a firm favourite amongst runners due to its fast, flat surface and gorgeous scenery. There are two water stations on the course – one at the half way mark, and one at the finish line. DETAILS: Daytime tel: 01792 635428 or email: special.events@swansea.gov.uk

124 SWANSEA LIFE

PROMS IN THE PARK

WHERE: Singleton Park, Swansea • WHEN: September 14 One of Wales’ most loved music and family events - BBC Wales’ Proms in the Park – is on its way back to Singleton Park. This year, ABC are bringing a taste of 80s perfect pop by performing some of their greatest hits including ‘The Look of Love’ and ‘Poison Arrow’. Already on the bill are baritone and winner of this year’s BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition Andrei Kymach and 22 year old saxophonist Xhosa Cole, winner of BBC Young Jazz Musician in 2018 - who will all perform with the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales. Leading everyone through the evening will be The One Show’s Alex Jones and BBC Radio1’s Steffan Powell.

TICKETS: £18. 13-16yrs, £8. 12 and under, £5. Three years and under, free www.swansea.gov.uk/BBCPromsbooking

OUTDOOR CINEMA

WHERE? Prezzo, Mumbles WHEN? September 6,7 and 8:

Love film, love good food and drink? Then it might be worth beating a path to Prezzo in Oyster Wharf for its new series of open air cinema screenings running over three nights this month. Nothing beats watching a movie under the stars and popular classics of The Italian Job, Romeo and Juliet and The Great Gatsby take to the screen over consecutive nights starting on September 6.

DETAILS: 7.30pm start. Normal food and drink prices apply. Cinema tickets are free but strictly limited. To book a place call, 01792 686372

Treasures from THE warship Mary Rose

WHERE? Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea WHEN? Until March 1

Items from the Mary Rose warship, the pride of Henry VIII’s navy, are on show at Swansea Council’s Glynn Vivian Art Gallery. The exhibition brings to life the fascinating world of a Tudor warship and its crew, lost in battle in 1545. They include a 6ft 6in longbow that probably belonged to an elite archer on board, as well as personal items such as a jacket that would have been worn by one of the hundreds of sailors who died when the ship went down. The Mary Rose sank off Portsmouth - in full view of Henry VIII - during a naval battle with the French. The wreck was

famously raised from the seabed in 1982. The items are on loan from the Mary Rose museum in Portsmouth. The exhibition is being staged in partnership with Swansea University and the Mary Rose Trust. Alex Hildred, of the Mary Rose Museum, says the Mary Rose Trust has been working with Swansea University for almost 10 years: “And the Glynn Vivian exhibition is an excellent opportunity to explain to the public some of the work it has carried out. “ It also gives people who might not be able to travel to Portsmouth the opportunity to see, up close, some of the unique Tudor artefacts recovered from Henry VIII’s favourite warship Mary Rose.” Free entry • www.swansea.gov.uk/ glynnvivian • www.maryrose.org

MUMBOULES DAY

WHERE? Southend Gardens is the venue for the third annual boules tournament in Mumbles. WHEN? Saturday, September 7 • 9am-5pm. Up to 32 six-strong teams totalling around 200 players, will be up for the challenge, many of whom will be dressed in colourful garb befitting of the fun occasion. Local charities will again benefit for the sponsored event which attracts pubs, clubs, businesses or just teams of friends. A beer tent, hog roast and live music will help things along nicely. The tournament is sponsored by DJM Solicitors’ Mumbles branch and run by the Swansea Rotary Club. More than £4,000 was raised for local charities in each of the last two years. Anyone interested in putting a team in should contact Paul James by phoning 07971 824455 or email gomarket_2000@yahoo.com SWANSEA LIFE 125

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL NIGHT

RAISES £3,500 FOR TŶ OLWEN ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

RIENDS and family of the late John Goulding have raised a remarkable £3,500 for charity Tŷ Olwen, a purpose-built specialist Palliative Care Unit which forms part of the Abertawe Bro Morganwg University Health Board Cancer Directorate.

The money was raised at a charity Rock ‘n’ Roll evening at The Cockett Inn, Swansea on Saturday July 20 through a mixture of ticket sales, a raffle and auction. The event was supported by John’s sister Gill, brother Colin, and many more family members and friends. The bands – The Buzzcuts and The Busboys - played at the event, helping to raise the spirits of those who attended in memory of John. Organised by his close friend Jeff Davies and daughter Denisha, the event was in memory of John, a

caretaker in Christchurch School, Sandfields, who passed away aged 58 in April. He was supported in his treatment by the Specialist Palliative Care Team of Tŷ Olwen, which provides a service to Singleton, Morriston, Neath Port Talbot and outlying community hospitals. Talking of his late friend John Goulding, Jeff Davies said: “It was a great pleasure to have known John – he was a fantastic man to all who knew him, and he will be dearly missed.

“We are very appreciative and thankful to have raised the amount we have for such a worthy charity and we hope the money raised will go some way to help the families who use the palliative care unit at such difficult times in their lives. “We would like to thank everyone who attended the event and donated generously, and we would also like to thank Tŷ Olwen for its constant care of individuals and families who use its service.” Helen Murray, chairman of the Tŷ Olwen Trust, commented: “Firstly, I would like to thank the people who donated for their generosity in memory of the lovely John, who we had the privilege to care for. He was quite the character and had such a warm- and kind-hearted soul. “£3,500 is our bread and butter to ensure we are able to run our care unit for our patients. This money will go towards staffing our unit, as well as extras such as medical equipment

to help support our patients, flowers for the garden area our patients can enjoy, and support for our home care services. Every penny raised goes straight back into the care unit, so we are extremely grateful to everyone involved.” With special thanks to: ★ June Williams and Carole Nedin for organising the raffle ★ Martyn and family from the Anglers Mate Shop (Swansea Market) and all of the kind prizes given donated from all shops involved in Swansea Market ★ Ella and Sherree for allowing us to use the Cockett Inn to host the event ★ Chris and Claire for printing the posters and stickers for the event ★ Thank you to the two bands – The Buzzcuts and The Busboys and Ben Davies and Geoff Archer for entertaining the guests on the night

THANK YOU TO ALL THE BELOW FOR THE DONATIONS FOR THE AUCTION: ★ Nick Holly and Wyn Jenkins for the beautiful paintings donated

★ Allen from Norton House for the meal for two at Norton House

★ Martin Wilde at Angler’s Mate in Swansea Market for the Rod & Reel donation And a special thanks to all those who donated generously to the fantastic cause, including Mark Caswell, Bob from Hot or What Plumbing, D. Saunders Roofing and Phil and Lee Davies. Thank you to Leighton Lopez for his donation on the night.

SOCIAL DIARY

BIRTHDAY FUN WHere: Dragon Hotel, Swansea. Tell Me More: Award-winning transformation coach Joy Ogeh-Hutfield’s 50th birthday party – a night at the Oscars.

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Veterans Awards WHere: Village Hotel, Swansea. Tell Me More: A black-tie awards dinner sponsored by TASC Holdings Ltd and in support of The ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. An evening to reward former serving military personnel in the areas of sport, fitness and business as well as those companies that go above and beyond to recruit from the veteran community. During the night £2,000 was raised for the ABF The Soldiers Charity and £200 for the Welsh Guards Charity. Sean Molino, founder of the Welsh Veterans Awards, said: “ The aim of our awards is to inspire future service leavers to achieve great things when they do decide to leave the Armed Forces.” pictures: www.veteransawards.co.uk

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RED CARPET CHARITY GALA WHere: Brangwyn Hall, Swansea. Tell Me More: A glittering dinner event with Swanseaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Oscar-winning Catherine Zeta-Jones taking to the stage at the Brangwyn Hall sharing anecdotes, stories and tales of her early city life through to her multi-award winning Hollywood career. The event, which came on the same day as she was awarded her Honorary Freedom of the City, was in aid of Maggieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cancer care. PICTURES: JR Events and Robert Melen.

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FUNDRAISER WHere: Burry Port Harbour. Tell Me More: The Maggie’s cancer care charity staged a fundraising walk between Burry Port Harbour and Llanelli’s Festival Fields. pictures: Hoosh Multimedia.

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AWARDS LUNCH WHere: Swansea Marriott Hotel. Tell Me More: Awards luncheon hosted by Media Wales to celebrate the Top 100 companies in south west Wales. A small number of awards were presented during the afternoon, which also featured guest speakers from Professional Together and Chris Foxall from Riversimple. PICTURES: Robert Melen

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FUNDRAISER WHere: Clyne Golf Club. Tell Me More: An event organised by Tennis Centre Swansea in partnership with egolf to raise funds for Ty Olwen. PICTURES: VK Photography

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MUDDY MARVELS WHere: Singleton Park, Swansea. Tell Me More: Around 2,500 people joined in a 5km obstacle course to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. PICTURES: Robert Melen

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CHARITY LUNCH WHere: Brittania Inn, Llanmadoc, Gower. Tell Me More: An event organised by Adell Owen-Goddard, a manager at Swansea Bay Health Board, which raised £9,005.48 for children’s cancer charities. It is the fifth year of organised events with a little under £36,000 being raised during that time. Adell says: “ I have been truly overwhelmed with the kindness and generosity I have received from so many people: family, friends, neighbours, businesses, patients who deposit money into collection buckets to help. Some may not have much money, and yet they still give and it really touches me.” PICTURES: Adrian White - www.adrianwhitephotography.co.uk

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;¢ charity luncheon

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TIME FOR YOU

THE CROWN INN If The Bull in BBC Radio 4’s The Archers was real, it might look like this. A picture-perfect pub-with-rooms in a small, rural, Cotswold village offering a friendly welcome, locals at the olde worlde bar, comfortable accommodation, tasty food and wisteria around the front door. Peter Slee has been off to find out more... like the Cotswolds as much as the next cake-scoffing, teaglugging tourist, but there is something disconcerting about the way it all looks the same. The Lygon Arms in Broadway, say, looks scarily like half a dozen or so other places in Stow or Cirencester. This homogeneity is a major part of the area’s charm – honeycoloured stone, cutesy villages. But it can also leave me yearning for a bit of originality. From the outside, the Crown Inn, taken over by new owners George Irvine and

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wife Victoria just a year or so ago and since sensitively restored, definitely ticks all those classic Cotswolds boxes. It is a 17th-century building tucked away in Church Enstone, not too far from the hurly-burly of the area’s principal chocolate box villages of places such as Chipping Norton, Moreton in Marsh, Stow on the Wold and Stratford Upon Avon Step through the wisteria-draped front door and you’re in a cosy tavern. A little front parlour with a piano in it and a fireplace is the first place you get to and there’s a wide, light-filled extension at the back, with floor-to-ceiling windows and while the olde worlde vibe is not exactly shattered: it does come with some added extras here; this

hotel is bold, bright and very much of today. There are newspapers to read beside the fire, and an array of local information by the front door. The decor mixes neutrals with splashes of colour, and there are playful pieces of art on show, some of which are available to buy. That is not to say the character of the original inn has been destroyed. On the contrary, pains have been taken to retain the original features. The wooden beams, crooked staircases and some unusually shaped rooms are all intact. It is a successful marriage of old and new, mixing ancient floorboards with modern, silky smooth Farrow & Ball walls, exposed stone with lux, 2019 bathrooms.

Our room, up some wonky stairs, is at the top of the building: low entrance, sloping ceiling, gigantic beams overlooking the front to one side, and a little car park to the other. Although the walls are mainly decorated in a designer symphony of cream and off-white tones, there are colour sparks here and there. Bespoke furniture fits the unconventional spaces, there are lovely Scandi-style cushions and throws and each room has in it a copy of a little book called ‘Lifting the Latch’ worth dipping into to connect with the local past. On the first night, we sample its garden area, a beautiful space which somehow manages to feel cosy (with some of the nicest outdoor furniture I have ever seen) yet still lively and vibrant. A couple of outstanding real ales later, and we can’t wait for dinner. The restaurant area is every bit as good. Step inside and you’re in a wonderfully mellow space with a bar, decent armchairs and open fires. You instantly relax. The generously large restaurant is in a clever, orangery-style extension behind. Filled with light from long windows, it is a halcyon room. It’s all enormously comfortable and looks nicely welcoming without being too glamorous or starchy stiff. Its menus are carefully created by head chef Chris Taylor with a happy range of short, eating options which reflect his commitment to freshness. Dishes are beautifully presented and packed with local flavour. The bar has a well-priced, all-day menu with the main restaurant offering some interesting flavour combinations. You pay around the £7-£8 mark for starters and between £11.50 and £20 for mains and for that you get a good if not too over-the-top taste adventure for your money.

My starter is a confit chicken terrine with pickled artichokes and a tarragon creme fraiche, a rare case of improving on a classic, while my main is delicious Barbary duck breast with pancetta crisp, dauphinoise potatoes and a cherry jus. I search for a negative, an overlooked detail, but there is nothing. There’s nothing modern or outwardly trendy about The Crown but that’s the beauty of it. It has stuck to its roots, boasting English country-inspired interiors offering the perfect place to chill, good walks on its doorstep and a decent nights sleep in a bedroom you will want to pick up and take back to your own home. Finally, something to distinguish those identikit Cotswold towns: a pretty much faultless hotel we look forward to going back to.

IN SHORT: A husband and wife team who have put a lot of effort into creating something a bit special out of what was once their local boozer. Décor has been kept simple so as to show off the character of this old building. It is exactly what is needed if you want to re-charge the old batteries, offering up what is a good value and unpretentious hotel that’s loaded with style and low-key glamour, particularly in its bedrooms. There’s a warm atmosphere here we loved.... and you will too! WHEN TO GO: All year round really

as who can predict the English sunshine? We had blazing sunshine one day, torrential downpours the next.

BEST FOR: This is a classic weekend-

away spot, so it wasn’t surprising to see a lot of couples making the most of the place.

* Accommodation and meals were provided by the Crown Inn, Mill Lane, Church Enstone, Oxfordshire 01608 677262. Doubles from £110-£130 a night on a B&B basis for two people sharing. One dog-friendly room available costing an extra £10 a night per dog. www.crowninnenstone.co.uk SWANSEA LIFE 151

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TIME FOR YOU

INHERITANCE CHALLENGES – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW? As much as a will is designed to represent the final wishes of a loved one, it is not always the case that they will distribute their assets in a manner that some family members would regard as “fair”.

where someone that was financially dependent on the deceased at the time of death can make a claim on the basis that the deceased’s will does not make sufficient financial provision for them.

To this end, there are two types of challenges an individual can progress:

People who are eligible to make this type of challenge include:

1. Contentious probate disputes

• The spouse or civil partner of the deceased.

2. Claims brought under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependents) Act 1975

• Someone who had lived with the deceased during the whole of the period of two years ending immediately before the date when the deceased died, in the same household as the deceased and as the husband or wife of the deceased.

Contentious probate disputes These disputes are brought about when the validity of a will is challenged. There can be several reasons for this challenge: • Fraud and forgery • Undue influence • Lack of knowledge and approval • Lack of testamentary intention • Lack of due execution • Lack of testamentary capacity

Neil Jacobi, solicitor and specialist in wills disputes and inheritance challenges at Peter Lynn & Partners Solicitors, talks this month about inheritance challenges

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• Revocation Inheritance Act claims It is important to note that these cases are different to contentious probate disputes (when the argument is that the will is not valid) as in Inheritance Act cases you accept that if there is a will, it is valid – but you are arguing that it doesn’t make “reasonable financial provision”. The Inheritance Act 1975 provides a route

• A former spouse or former civil partner of the deceased (but not one who has formed a subsequent marriage or civil partnership). • A child of the deceased. • Any person (not being a child of the deceased) who was treated by the deceased as a child of the family. • Any person who immediately before the death of the deceased was being maintained either wholly or partly by the deceased. This type of legal dispute is often complex and requires expert advice and guidance, so our advice is simple; arrange a free 30-minute meeting with the team at Peter Lynn and Partners which will assess your case and advise you on the most appropriate course of action. For more information, call 01792 450010 or email Advice@plandp.co.uk

To arrange a free initial meeting, call 01792 450010 or email Advice@plandp.co.uk Preventing Legal Problems

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Technical Care Solutions is now becoming a ‘1-Stop Shop’ selling and servicing patientlifting equipment, thanks to a joint venture with a Welsh manufacturer. Dougie explained: “After repeated customer enquiries, we decided to use our expertise and contacts to offer our clients the full range of equipment options for protecting staff and patients in their day-to-day tasks. Different care providers will have different preferences, and we can advise on a wide range of purchase and servicing requirements”.

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Dougie Healion, Director, said: “After 11 years as a Service Engineer I decided to go out on my own 3 years ago. We’ve expanded, taken on staff and new premises, and built up a great reputation in the sector in South Wales”. Dougie is originally from Swansea, and served in the Royal Navy for 8 years before moving into service engineering.

Dougie added: All lifting equipment is subject to regular testing by qualified engineers under the LOLER regulations (http://www.hse.gov. uk/work-equipment-machinery/ loler.htm), and must be fit for purpose and suitably marked. Records must be kept of all inspections and any defects found must be reported.

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TIME FOR YOU

The best new books to add to your September reading list A good book by your side is surely an essential.... here’s Swansea Life’s pick of the best

 Tidelands

by Philippa Gregory is published in hardback by Simon & Schuster, priced £20 (ebook £9.99). On the very edge of a country at war with its own king, on an island which changes shape with the tide, midwife Alinor awaits news of her vanished husband. Instead she meets Thomas, a handsome catholic royalist, and risks her own safety to protect him. So begins a spate of good luck for our protagonist that attracts the jealousy and whispers of her neighbours at a time when a single woman cannot afford to be the subject of gossip. Philippa

Gregory returns with an English Civil War novel that excels in everything she does best. Historical events are written with breathless immediacy, keeping the reader enthralled even if they know the outcome. She pays close attention to the plight of women in the past, so often unchanged despite men’s wars, and gives them a voice. And of course, there is a healthy dose of bodice-ripping romance. Fans will not be disappointed.

 Inland

by Tea Obrecht is published in hardback by Weidenfeld & Nicolson, priced £14.99 (ebook £7.99). Eight years after her debut novel The Tiger’s Wife was published to critical acclaim, Serbian American author Tea Obreht returns with Inland, a magical realist examination of frontier living and the creation of the myth of the American West. Following the twin narratives of youthful outlaw Lurie Mattie’s escape westwards and acceptance by the Camel Corps, and frontierswoman Nora Lark’s hardscrabble existence in her homestead, carved

out of the Arizona Territory in 1893, Inland is shot through with the supernatural. The dead reappear among the living, mysterious disappearances abound, and the eerie, bewitching landscape holding the power of life and death - becomes a character in itself. The two tales form a widescreen exploration of love, loss, yearning and reinvention, combining in a skilful and moving finale where mysteries are resolved.

 Devotion

by Madeline Stevens is published in paperback by Faber & Faber, priced £12.99 (ebook £6.99). Sensual, obsessive, unsettling, Madeline Stevens’ debut novel is a meandering tour of toxic female friendship. There’s more than a hint of Single White Female in the relationship between Ella - cash-strapped and alone - and Lonnie - rich and beautiful, with the perfect young family. As the two women’s lives converge, the boundaries between their individual selves become blurred by jealousy and desire. Ella’s fixation with a

local serial killer, as well as her obsession with cataloguing Lonnie’s possessions and hoarding her personal keepsakes - including childhood photos and baby teeth - create a sinister undercurrent to the seemingly perfect life in privileged Manhattan. There are no sudden twists or shocking turns in Devotion, but a sense of unease permeates throughout, as though at any moment tragedy might strike.

 In Praise Of Walking

by Shane O’Mara is published in hardback by Bodley Head, priced £16.99 (ebook £9.99). This is a book that had this reader scrambling to play a recording of the sound of neurons firing. Appropriately enough, because the fact we move about seems to be the reason we have a brain at all. Shane O’Mara is a professor of experimental brain research in Dublin, who has previously written about the neuroscience of interrogation and the brain in business; he is also a keen walker. It’s not always easy to weigh up the various strands

of research that tie into his present subject, but the final chapter is like a poem to walking, why we should do it more and feel the many benefits it can bring us in health, mood, creativity or socially. Even our personalities may be altered for the better. It’s not all a new message but it bears repeating, here with the science that might help convince planners to prioritise walking as a means of getting around.

CHILDREN’S BOOK OF THE MONTH

 The Iron Man

by Ted Hughes is published in hardback by Faber Children’s and illustrated by Chris Mould, priced £16.99. Ted Hughes’ The Iron Man is an absolute classic - thoughtful, moving, ahead of its time and wondrously inventive, it was first published in 1968. Since then the story - boy (Hogarth) meets an Iron Man, and together they fight to save the world has been refreshed for cinema (namely, Brad Bird’s 1999 animated adaptation, renamed The Iron Giant

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where our alien metal man is played by none other than Vin Diesel), and now this new illustrated version has artist Chris Mould to thank for its burnished depictions. Mould’s scribbles in deep blues and sea greens, soften up the edges of our Iron Man, but lend wit and graphic-novel gravitas. A respectful, enervating update.

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