sUMMER edition 2012
family fun & games
New Adventureland heralds summer of sport
DRIVING AMBITION Rally roars to Resort
IN THE SPOTLIGHT Olympic star Kriss Akabusi
DIVERS' WATCH How sub-aqua team came to golfer's rescue
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RETURN OF BRENDAN COLE EXTENSIVE EXPANSION PLANS DELICIOUS DINING official magazine of the celtic Manor resort
What’s Inside
Editor’s Notes
4 MATTERS A round-up of all the latest resort news including ambitious expansion plans and the arrival of Wales Rally GB
A Warm welcome to Celtic Connections
10 IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Relay and hurdles legend Kriss Akabusi looks ahead to the Olympic Games
12 FAIRWAY FOCUS Jaidee takes ISPS Handa Wales Open crown and Principality Junior Wales Open returns to Twenty Ten Course 16 LIFE & STYLE Afternoon Tranquili-Tea plus the latest beauty essentials 18 ON THE MENU Terry M the new name in fine dining, alfresco barbecues and join our new dining club 20 DELICIOUS DINING Summer fish dish from the Newbridge on Usk 22 SOCIAL SCENE Picture board of people and parties at Celtic Manor
Saturday 3rd November Remember, remember this date for November and see in the 2012 bonfire celebrations with a bang! Following last year’s sell-out event, join us once again for a magnificent festival of fireworks as we light up the sky above Celtic Manor. Fireworks Spectacular Tickets include admission only. Food will be available to purchase on the night. Adult £8.50 Child (2 – 13 years) £4.50 Infant (under 2 years) FREE Further discounts available for Celtic Manor members
Family ticket £24.00 (2 adults & 2 children aged 13 or under) Advance purchase only – members discount does not apply
For more details visit celtic-manor.com, or call our Reservations Team on 01633 410262 Terms and conditions apply. Tickets are subject to availability. Tickets purchased from 1st November onwards will be charged at full price (please note that family tickets and members’ discount will not be available). All tickets include complimentary parking in the designated on-site car park. Children under 14 years must be accompanied by an adult. Full non-refundable pre-payment required at time of booking.
24 SAVE THE DATE
Your essential calendar of social events
26 INSIDE VIEW Kitchen talk from Tim McDougall, head chef at Terry M 27 CELTIC COMMUNITY Caerleon Arts Festival, win a family adventure stay The Celtic Connections Team Editor Paul Williams paulwilliams@celtic-manor.com 01633 410288 Deputy Editor Stephanie Dillon sdillon@celtic-manor.com 01633 410530 Designer Matthew Sullivan msullivan@celtic-manor.com 01633 410201
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he wettest June on record may have put paid to Elemis Polo at the Manor but we’re not letting it dampen our spirits as we look forward to another summer of fun here at The Celtic Manor Resort. Following the success of the outdoor adventure activities we opened last year, we’re bringing a brand new Adventureland to the Rooftop Garden this school holiday to keep the whole family amused with giant games, water zorbing, obstacle courses and a bouncy castle. With Laser Combat promising another high-adrenaline buzz in our Leisure Zone, there has never been a better time to enjoy a family stay - or a family day out at The Celtic Manor Resort. There will be more high-octane thrills in September when we welcome horsepower of another kind to the tracks above the Twenty Ten Course, which will host a special stage of Wales Rally GB for the first time. The early evening event on Saturday 15th September forms part of Britain’s round of the World Rally Championship and promises to be a roaring success as these high performance cars rev their engines under the balcony of the Twenty Ten before speeding their way through a 3km route. Record eight-time world champion Sebastien Loeb will lead the highly skilled men behind the wheel aiming to win the 80th anniversary edition of Rally GB and the Celtic Manor stage has already grabbed the attention as a unique sporting hospitality opportunity. It was the talented drivers more readily associated with the Twenty Ten Course who grabbed the attention at the start of the summer as Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee claimed the ISPS Handa Wales Open in thrilling fashion. After a tough wind had blown many leading lights out of contention on the opening day, Jaidee held his nerve to hold off no fewer than four European Tour champions by a single stroke. There’s more golf to look forward to, not least the Ryder Cup in September as we pass on the baton as match hosts to the Medinah club in Chicago. We wish them as much drama as we enjoyed here at Celtic Manor two years ago and we look forward to a finish every bit as exciting as Europe’s last-gasp victory. Bring it on! Best wishes
Designer Paul Bailey pbailey@celtic-manor.com 01633 410200
Paul Williams Editor Page 3
The Celtic Manor Resort
DIVERS RESCUE GOLFER FROM SINKING FEELING
Matters
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News in Brief from Celtic Manor
An artist's impression (left) of the new lodges and how they might look above the Twenty Ten Course
EXPANSIVE AMBITION
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for luca
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Matters
eltic Manor Resort owner Sir Terry Matthews has outlined ambitious expansion plans for The Celtic Manor Resort. Sir Terry caused something of a media frenzy when he revealed a variety of schemes over the next 10 years could total £160m in investment and bring 230 additional permanent jobs to the resort. Planning permission is already in place to build 40 apartments and the first phase of a proposed 50-lodge development has also been approved. New leisure activities are also in the pipeline, the first and most exciting being the longest zipwire in Europe – SkywireWales – which will plummet for more than a kilometre over the River Usk.
ivers came to the rescue when a visiting golfer lost his watch and wedding ring after his golf bag and trolley plunged into a lake on the Twenty Ten Course. Having left his trolley alongside a bunker by the 18th green, Alan Neill could only watch in horror as the wind blew the trolley down a bank and into the lake. Mr Neill used a bunker rake to fish his golf bag, minus the trolley and several irons, out of the lake but the five-handicap golfer realised he had left a golf bag pocket containing his valuables open and a £1,500 watch and his wedding ring were missing. “I even stripped down to my boxer shorts and went in looking for them,” said the financial controller from County Down, Northern Ireland. “But it’s a steep bank and the water was very murky.” Mr Neill stayed overnight at the hotel, the venue for the 2010 Ryder Cup, and then watched Celtic Manor greenkeepers, led by irrigation manager Neil Shepherd, take over the search in the morning but, once again, to no avail.
It was then that the resort turned to Cynon Valley Sub Aqua Club, a group of divers who had performed exercises before in a separate irrigation reservoir for the golf courses. The team accepted the challenge and, after a couple of hours of systematic searching, advanced diver Howard Lewis was able to find the watch and wedding ring with the help of underwater metal-detecting equipment. “Most things are replaceable but a wedding ring is not,” said Mr Neill, a five-handicap golfer. “We’re celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary in September so it feels great to have the ring back. “All in all, it’s a very happy ending and I can’t thank the divers and the team at Celtic Manor enough. That was customer service to the extreme.” The popular Golf Magic website commented on Twitter: "Is this the best piece of customer service in history? Take a bow, Celtic Manor!"
look who’s talkin g @TheCelticManor
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ere’s a round up of our favourite tweets from celebrities and guests. Follow us on twitter @TheCelticManor for all the latest Resort news, offers and competitions. Natalie Cassidy@Nat_Cassidy
Back home and all unpacked. I'd say the best hotel in the UK. Celtic Manor was absolutely fantastic.. Best massages ever!!
@benshephard Beautiful day in Newport - about to ruin it with a game of very poor golf! If you're driving along the m4 near Celtic Manor FORE! @simonkhangolf Great view from room @TheCelticManor love coming back. Always so well looked after. Want to win Wales Open again now @brookekinsella Thank you to all @TheCelticManor for an unforgettable couple of days. I feel like a new woman! Will be back very very soon! Thank you xxx @realradiojagger We have just had the most amazing picnic sent in to @realradiowales, thank you so much to @TheCelticManor fab food
ook out for celebrities at the latest charity event to be announced at The Celtic Manor Resort. On 7th September, the resort will be holding a "ladies that lunch" fundraiser in aid of the "For Luca" campaign. The appeal has captured the hearts of a nation - and a raft of celebrities - as people rally round to support young Luca Williams of Newport, who lost his legs after being struck down by meningococcal septicaemia in January. His appeal aims to raise £1.5m to fund special prosthetics and the viral "Hands Up For Luca" has been backed by the likes of Pixie Lott, Lewis Hamilton and Sam Warburton.
@GethincJones Celebrating my hole in one with @CharLouJackson @georgiebingham @ronanofficial @GQMagazine! wis Hamilton
cing driver Le Formula 1 ra ort pp su s hi s show
@Annie6679 Having the most amazing day at Celtic Manor spa, will do this once a week when i win the lottery!
Young Luca Williams has captured the hearts of a nation
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The Celtic Manor Resort
Matters
Brendan Waltzes Back
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ollowing his spectacular sell-out show in 2012, ballroom star Brendan Cole will be quickstepping his way back to Celtic Manor for another stunning extravaganza of live music and dazzling dance next March. Don’t miss your chance to see the magic and sparkle of ballroom dancing first hand, as one of Strictly Come Dancing’s most charismatic performers takes to the stage with his group of incredible professional dancers. This intimate production once again promises to deliver a dazzling night of dance with a difference against the glamorous backdrop of Celtic Manor’s Caernarfon Ballroom on Saturday 9th March. Last year’s audience watched transfixed as Brendan and his talented team of dancers wowed them on stage with their fabulous footwork and whirling energy. Brendan also drew breath for long enough to answer questions and sashay into the audience to deliver birthday kisses and meet his many fans. Book early to avoid disappointment and guarantee your place at what promises to be another unforgettable occasion.
DAVIES FAMILY SWING TO VICTORY
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NEW TEST OF DRIVING ON TWENTY TEN COURSE
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ormally a test of driving accuracy, the Twenty Ten Course will provide an examination of drivers’ speed when it hosts a Special Stage for Wales Rally GB on Saturday 15th September. Part of the World Rally Championship, the event will attract the world’s leading drivers and there is great anticipation for its first visit to Celtic Manor. Rally cars will roar down the track above the 16th, 17th and 18th holes before screeching past the clubhouse and into a turn up the steep hill to the Lodge overflow car park and the finish line. Hospitality guests will enjoy balcony viewing of the start line, a three-course dinner in the Twenty Ten clubhouse and a night's accommodation at the five star Resort Hotel. Wales Rally GB is celebrating its 80th year and begins with a ceremonial start in Llandudno in North Wales on Thursday 13th September before travelling down through Mid Wales on Friday and covering South Wales on Saturday and Sunday before finishing in Cardiff Bay.
Hospitality Package £328.30 per person, based on two people sharing Meet and Greet Package £388.30 per person, based on two people sharing
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To book hospitality call 01633 410318 www.walesrallygb.com
he Davies family from Newbridge have been crowned Wales’ Ultimate Family 2012 after a thrilling battle over Celtic Manor’s Forest Jump course. Dad Carl, mum Tracy and boys Evan (10) and Ethan (8) were just two points from securing a maximum score over the four rounds as they emerged victorious in a hard-fought competition. Defending champions the Kill family were their closest challengers and trailed by just a few points going into the final Powerfan Hoop bonus round. But the blue team held their nerve to hit the target with all four of their shots while leaping down the Powerfan plunge to take the 2012 title. They will now return to Celtic Manor for a two-night luxury stay in a two-bedroom suite with meals and activities worth £2,000. Dad Carl said: “We had a fantastic time competing in the final and to be crowned winners is the icing on the cake. We’re very proud to win Wales’ Ultimate Family 2012.” The Sadler, Zwart and Morris families completed the final line-up of five adventure-loving families with children ranging in age from 6-18.
The Phantom Experience
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ith tickets like gold-dust selling out in just a few days, you might think you’ve missed your chance to see one of the most famous musicals of all time right here in Wales’ capital city? Well, have we got a Christmas treat in store for you! This festive season The Celtic Manor Resort, in partnership with Wales Millennium Centre, is offering you an exclusive opportunity to enjoy the best seats in the house for Cameron Mackintosh’s spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘The Phantom of the Opera’, combined with a luxurious overnight stay. Join us for a night of outstanding entertainment and five star pampering, beginning with a delicious pre-theatre supper in our fine dining restaurant, Terry M. Your evening will continue at the iconic Wales Millennium Centre, where jaw-dropping scenery, breath-taking special effects and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s mesmerising score will magically combine to bring this tragic love story to life. Later, return to Celtic Manor to end your night in style with a luxurious overnight stay at the five star Resort Hotel. To book, please call Reservations on 01633 410262
Last yea r's winn ers, the K negotiate ill famil the aqua y challeng e om es family fr ons, the Davi s by al ed m New champi eir ted th were presen Newbridge lf himse Forest Jump
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The Celtic Manor Resort
matters
Corporate Challenge
Celtic Champions
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ompanies looking for unique ways to challenge their team will find a host of exhilarating adventure activities on offer at Celtic Manor that will perfectly fit the bill. Test their nerve with our adrenaline pumping Forest Jump treetop ropes adventure, let them take on the challenge of our spectacular Adventure Golf courses, or try out our exhilarating new Laser Combat! We also offer a wide range of additional activities in conjunction with ACF Hospitality, one of the UK’s leading event companies with over 20 years’ experience, including blind 4 x 4 driving, quad safaris, Segways, argocats and many more, all available onsite at the Resort. Designed to fit in with your timescales, budget and varying levels of physical abilities, our challenges include tests of communication, team work, leadership and planning, providing your team with valuable new skills, a fantastic sense of achievement and above all, a lot of fun.
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Welcome To Adventureland Calling All Kids
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vergreen Nursery will be opening its doors to children aged 3 to 8 years during the summer holidays, offering adventures galore and lashings of fun at its Holiday Club! With a different theme for activities each day, your little adventurers can enjoy a summer to remember building camp fires and tee-pees or tracking animals in the woods, to sporting fun and games with new friends. Whether it’s just for one day or a whole week, this flexible childcare is a great way to spend the summer holidays.
For more information, call our Events Team on 01633 410252
RUN FOR YOUR LOVE
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eservations Agent Laura Rendell received the most romantic surprise when she cheered on her boyfriend as he turned for home at the London Marathon. Laura had taken up a spot just 800 yards from the finish line to watch Ben McCreadie complete the home stretch of the arduous 26-mile 385-yard race. But at the very moment when most runners forget their aching limbs and put their head down for home, Ben came over to Laura on the sidelines and collapsed on one knee. He was not, however, doubled up in pain – he was asking her to marry him and had even carried a ring all the way around with him to pop the question in style. “I was really shocked! I didn’t know what to do, but I was really, really happy,” recalled Laura. “I said yes, he put the ring on my finger, gave me a kiss and then he just ran off – he had to go as he had to finish the race!” The happy couple have been going out together for three years after meeting at the resort where Ben also used to work as a Concierge. Page 8
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et ready for a summer of fun at Celtic Manor as our spectacular Rooftop Garden is transformed into an exciting land of adventure, full of thrills and spills for all the family from 22nd July to 31st August. Let the fun and games begin as you bounce, balance and battle your way through our activity zone featuring a bouncy castle, inflatable obstacle course, trampolines, water zorbs, tractor trails and more! There will also be giant garden games, exciting arts and crafts, a colourful ‘Meet our Mascots Dance Parade’, a barbecue with an array of delicious burgers, hot dogs and snacks available to purchase between 12pm and 2.30pm each day, and the rooftop bar selling hot and cold drinks throughout the day. Open from 11am to 5pm each day, tickets are priced at just £8 for children aged 4–17 years. Under 4s play for free. For tickets, please call Guest Activities on 01633 410587
Terms and conditions apply – see website for full details. *Closed on 27th and 28th July, 5th, 18th and 20th August.
s Olympics fever sweeps the nation, why not mark the occasion in style and join us at Celtic Manor as we celebrate the Olympic Games and soak up the party atmosphere as we mark the grand finale to the Games on 12th August. Guests will enjoy a fun-packed family afternoon of races and competitions in the picturesque surroundings of our Rooftop Garden, an ideal warm-up for the evening’s celebrations. There will also be plenty of fun for children including a bouncy castle, giant garden games and face painting throughout the afternoon, plus your choice of delicious burgers or hot dogs from our barbecue. The party will continue late into the evening with live screening of the Closing Ceremony from London on our big screens throughout the Resort, so why not make a night of it and stay to enjoy the celebrations over a few drinks in our bars or restaurants? For tickets, please call Reservations on 01633 410262
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The Celtic Manor Resort
In The Spotlight KRISS AKABUSI MBE
Olympic medallist Kriss Akabusi explains why this summer’s Games are set to be so special
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In the spotlight
This summer is dominated by the London Olympics, how special are your memories of competing at the Games? Let’s put it this way. I have a World Championships relay gold medal and an individual European Championships gold medal, but the one I have carried around in my pocket for 28 years is my silver medal from the 1984 Olympics. It eclipses the other two because the Olympics are the pinnacle of any athlete’s career. It is also special because my Olympic silver as part of the 4 x 400m relay team came so early in my athletics career. I had come through the military ranks and was in awe of some of the other guys in the British team. I went into those Olympics in LA still thinking of myself as Sgt Akabusi, army soldier. But I came out of those Games as Kriss Akabusi, Olympic silver medallist. I felt I’d arrived at the top level.
got closer. In fact, the only time I got worried I might not win was the last 2030 metres when I’d gone past him.
What are the other standout moments from your career? The performance everyone else wants to talk about, and the one that gives me the profile to continue doing interviews like this one, is the relay gold at the 1991 World Championships. We’d always had a strong relay team and we were always expected to medal at major championships, but the Americans more or less owned the event. Within our team, we actually came up with the strategy to switch our order and put our fastest man, Roger Black, who had won the silver medal in the individual 400m, on the first leg rather than the anchor leg to try to put some pressure on the opposition. It meant I ran the anchor leg and the guys (Derek Redmond and John Regis were the other members of the team) managed to put me in the perfect position, right on the heels of Anthony Pettigrew, the Olympic champion. If I’d been just ahead, he would have done to me what I did to him, and if I’d been too far behind I’d never have caught him. But I grew more and more confident as the line
Why do you think Great Britain has done so well in the 400m – both flat and hurdles – and the relay over the years? I think the 400m distance lends itself to our mentality. It’s a race where you’ve got to show your grit and determination. Often it’s a case of hanging on and believing in yourself, sometimes in the face of adversity. I think we’ve always shown good team spirit in the 4 x 400m relay. When we got together at a championships, we were together as a team. We’d train together but we’d also eat together and go to the cinema together. There’s also a special bond between quarter-milers. The dropping batons we keep hearing about among the British sprinters at the moment just would not have happened in our team. You understand the pain the other team members go through and there’s no way you want to let them down.
Wales’ Dai Greene is one of Team GB’s best athletics gold medal hopes this year and he goes in the 400m hurdles, an event in which you are still the British record holder. Yes, I’m very excited about Dai’s chances. Dai showed by winning the gold at last year’s World Championships that he knows how to perform on the big occasion. It won’t be easy for him. He’s probably going to have to run under 47.5 seconds and that’s going to be tough, but hopefully the occasion will lift him above and beyond, to a new British record. There will be the additional pressure of expectation, especially competing at home, but Dai is not a man who crumbles under pressure. He’s very insular and he’s a great competitor.
What have you been up to since hanging up your running spikes? When I retired, I was fortunate that there was a lot more interest in athletes than there is today so anyone with a modicum of personality had an opportunity to move into TV and I had a great time on shows like Record Breakers and The Big Breakfast. Doing my first live broadcasts on The Big Breakfast were far more nerve-wracking than competing in an Olympic final! I’m doing some media work around the Olympics at the moment but these days I have my own motivational speaking company and that keeps me busy. And you get out on the golf course when time allows... I have a regular weekly game with some pals on a Sunday and golf is such a popular game for fundraising that I get the odd invite for a midweek charity game. I’ve played a few times at Celtic Manor and really enjoyed getting out on the courses when I was over for a stay with the family recently. I probably spent my time more productively in the Golf Academy, however. I got a great tip for getting out of bunkers which has always been a bit of a weakness of mine. My mates can’t believe I can now get out of the sand without any problem – they’re gutted! That’s the great thing about the resort – there are so many facilities, not just the golf but all the restaurants and the family activities. I can’t wait to come back!
gold in the i brings home Kriss Akabus nships World Champio 91 19 the at relay
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The Celtic Manor Resort
ISPS Handa Wales Open Thursday 31st may - sunday 3rd june
fairway focus
FISHER FALLS FOUL OF SHOT CLOCK
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ngland’s Ross Fisher was drawing on all his fond memories of the 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor when he led at halfway and continued to contend for the ISPS Handa Wales Open during the final round. He ended up leaving the Twenty Ten Course with a sour taste in his mouth, however, after being penalised a shot for slow play on the 15th tee. “I don’t think it’s justice, but there you go,” said Fisher, who was also fined £6,000 and finished just two shots behind winner Thongchai Jaidee in joint sixth place on four under par. Fisher had clocked up his second bad time of the back nine while putting on the 14th green, having already overrun on his second shot to the 11th. “I think he struggles,” said European Tour chief referee John Paramor. “His pre-shot routine is not quick. Today was clearly very important to him – he was contending – and he was extending his routine by a whisker.” One-stroke penalties for slow competitors are not unheard of, but it had been decades since someone in the final group on the final day had seen action taken against them for slow play.
TWENTY TEN BARES ITS TEETH
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JAIDEE WRAPS UP FIRST WIN IN EUROPE
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hailand’s Thongchai Jaidee held his nerve on a tense and testing final day on Celtic Manor’s Twenty Ten Course to win the 2012 ISPS Handa Wales Open. Jaidee, who held a one-stroke advantage at the start of the closing round, finished the tournament with the same slender advantage as he closed on six under par, one better than his four closest rivals – Thomas Bjorn, Gonzalo Fernandez-Castaño, Joost Luiten and Richard Sterne. Ross Fisher, one of the heroes of the 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor, and Paul McGinley, a vice-captain for that memorable victory over the Americans, finished a further shot behind in a tie for sixth. “I want to say thank you to all my family, all the supporters and the sponsors here,” he said. “You know I really enjoyed trying to play my best around this course.” It was the first victory on European soil for Jaidee who had collected all four of his previous European Tour titles in his home continent of Asia, but he was perhaps made to feel at home by the presence of the new title sponsor. ISPS – the International Sports Promotion Society – was founded by Japanese philanthropist Dr Haruhisa Handa, and has sponsored many events on the Asian Tour before its first venture onto the European Tour with this year’s ISPS Handa Wales Open. For the first time in the 12-year history of the tournament, not a single Welshman managed to make the cut.
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eltic Manor Director of Golf Courses Jim McKenzie celebrated his 50th birthday on the opening day of the ISPS Handa Wales Open. If the scores that day are anything to go by, it’s safe to assume the players of the European Tour did not chip in for a birthday present! With a decent breeze drying out already firm greens and some brutal pin positions set by the European Tour, the Twenty Ten Course played at its very toughest. Only 11 players broke par and there were 25 scores in the 80s and one in the 90s. Gary Boyd’s round of 88 included two 10s. While the wind eased and pin positions were modified for the remainder of the week, a winning score of six under par showed just how formidable a challenge the Twenty Ten Course has become. “It was very, very tough for me, not like Thailand!” said the new champion, Thongchai Jaidee.
GEOFF SWAIN TRiCK SHOT SHOW
Miguel Angel Jim énez joins the fun along with a member of the public (below)
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our professionals were distracted from their weekend practice on the driving range at the ISPS Handa Wales Open as renowned trick shot artist Geoff Swain performed a repertoire of astounding skills. Former tournament champion and 2010 Ryder Cup hero, Miguel Angel Jiménez, was among those who took a break from trying to perfect their own games to admire Swain’s unorthodox shot-making. Jiménez was invited to try to match Swain’s hitting from a giant 4ft tee peg and it was the trick-shot artist who won the day during a 20-minute performance which captivated the large crowd on Saturday and Sunday.
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The Celtic Manor Resort
Fairway Focus
Fairway Focus
RELIVE THE MAGIC
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What’s hot in golf at Celtic manor
TOUR PRO JOE
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rainee professional Joe Ferguson has gone part-time at the Celtic Manor Golf Academy as he steps up his ambitions e e time on th ill sepnd mor ur dream w n to play tour professional golf. so u g er s to Joe F pursuit of hi Ferguson grabbed a taste of the golf course in European Tour life he has always aspired to when he qualified to play in the ISPS Handa Wales Open at Celtic Manor. Although he struggled, like most of the field, in difficult conditions on the opening day, Ferguson battled back with a level-par second round of 71 to show his credentials for top tier golf. The former England international has now stepped back his Academy commitments to two days a week as he gains more tournament experience in PGA and Europro Tour events before shooting for his tour card at qualifying school later in the year. As well as accommodating his new work schedule, the resort will be assisting his bid for tour pro status by supplying clothing, equipment and other support.
s the players arrive at Medinah for this year’s Ryder Cup, we’ll be celebrating the second anniversary of the 2010 match at Celtic Manor with a special challenge on the Twenty Ten Course. Pairs of golfers are invited to enter the Ryder Cup Anniversary Challenge on Tuesday 25th September to contest a fourball betterball stableford competition with live scoring. This is a wonderful opportunity to lap up the team room atmosphere experienced by the world’s best players, standing alongside the lockers of those who went before you two years ago and hopefully replicating Europe’s dramatic victory. Package is priced £298 per pair and includes breakfast on arrival, 18 holes of golf, champagne drinks reception and three-course dinner.
GARETH EDWARDS CHARITY GOLF DAY
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tars of sport and showbiz will descend on Celtic Manor for the annual charity golf day of Gareth Edwards, the rugby legend who is honorary president of the Twenty Ten Club. The celebrity event on Friday 14th September will raise funds for Cardiff Institute for the Blind and Cardiff University’s Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, which researches the causes of mental illness. Teams of three are invited to enter the event where they will be led in a fourball by one of the celebrities taking part. A full day will include 18 holes on the Twenty Ten Course, the stage for the dramatic 2010 Ryder Cup, preround breakfast and post-round dinner, prize presentation and charity auction with some fabulous prizes. Voted rugby’s greatest ever player and a star of the successful Wales and British Lions sides of the 1970s, Gareth Edwards has made many friends in the worlds of sport and entertainment. Now in its sixth year, previous celebrity guests at his annual charity golf day have included Jason Leonard, Jasper Carrot, Andy Gray, Gethin Jones, Dennis Taylor, Gary McAllister and Kenny Dalglish.
EVANS HOPING TO SIGN OFF AS CHAMPION
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ewport’s Jessica Evans will be hoping it’s sixth time lucky when she tees up in her last ever final for the Principality Junior Wales Open at Celtic Manor. Evans led the girls’ qualifiers from the regional event at Langland Bay near Swansea to keep up her remarkable run of reaching the final every year she has entered the competition since 2006. But the 17-year-old has never gone on to collect an overall age group prize in the finale – something she intends to put right when she tees up with 55 other qualifiers on the Twenty Ten Course on Monday 20th August. The three-handicapper from Newport Golf Club may have her best ever chance. On most of her other appearances in the final, Evans has been pipped to the main prize by Amy Boulden, who stepped up to the senior ranks this summer and promptly helped Great Britain & Ireland win the Curtis Cup. “Amy’s a bit special,” said Evans. “She beat me in the final last year and I’ve found myself up against her a few times at Celtic Manor. Now Amy’s turned 18, hopefully it will be my turn this year!” Langland Bay was one of five regional qualifying venues for the 2012 Principality Junior Wales Open with other events taking place at Harlech, Builth Wells, Marriott St Pierre and Radyr.
ace high for davies
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ore than 350 competitors from all over Wales entered the 2012 Principality Junior Wales Open but none of them hit a better shot than Celtic Manor’s own Josh Davies. Davies scored a fantastic hole in one on the fifth hole of his qualifying round at Builth Wells and used
vies member Josh Da ells Celtic Manor e at Builth W on in le ho celebrates his
the timely ace as the springboard for a superb round of 68 – two over par – to head the qualifiers by four shots at the Mid Wales venue. Radyr Golf Club on the outskirts of Cardiff joined the championship rota for the first time and Cottrell Park’s Kyle Hardman won with a superb 71.
To book your team in the event call Special Events on 01633 410318. Page 14
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The Celtic Manor Resort
life & style
Life & Style
Elemis Limited Edition Papaya Enzyme Peel
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o celebrate the award-winning Papaya Enzyme Peel’s 10th Anniversary, Elemis has released a Limited Edition bottle of its No.1 brightening exfoliator, designed by British artist Laura Oakes. For every product sold they will provide a 5-in-1 Pentavalent vaccine to immunise a child in Africa against 5 leading diseases and hope to donate 50,000 vaccines.
Glamour & Style secrets
Summer Sole Mate
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ncover softer, smoother, more beautiful skin this summer with Leighton Denny Diamond Sole Mate, which harnesses the polishing properties of real diamonds! Together with sea salt and pumice its triple exfoliating action brings a fresh new beauty to the skin, leaving them feeling tingly fresh and silky soft ready for summer.
Kérestase Elixir Family
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Afternoon Tranquili-Tea
ollowing the fabulous success of Elixir Ultime, Kérastase are launching the exclusive Elixir Family, a new range of fragrance-infused, custom-made oils for your specific hair needs. Millennium Rose, Immortal Moringa and Imperial Tea include the same core ingredients as Ultime which nourish the hair, but also contain additional benefits suitable for specific hair types. With just a few drops, your hair looks shiny and soft thanks to their fabulous nurturing properties. The Kérestase Elixir Family is now available in the salon.
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hat could be nicer than a day of blissful relaxation in the award winning Forum Spa? How about a day of pampering luxury combined with an elegant afternoon tea! Enter the exotic herbal steam temple under a canopy of stars then later, immerse yourself in a ritual of another kind with a delectable afternoon tea, a mouth-watering taste of heaven. This glorious day out is perfect for sharing with your Mum, your other half or a group of your very best friends. Package includes: • Resort Afternoon Tea in The Olive Tree Garden Room including assorted finger sandwiches, handmade pastries, cakes and freshly baked scones with clotted cream • A relaxing 45 minute Elemis Herbal Steam Temple (for groups of 2–4 to share) • Full access to The Forum Health Club’s luxurious facilities throughout your visit • A fluffy Forum Spa robe and slippers to use throughout your time at the health club £59 per person, available Monday – Friday For more details visit celtic-manor.com or call 01633 410262
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We love Thank Forum It’s Friday
F
rom Manic Mondays to Thankless Thursdays, sometimes you can’t wait for the weekend to begin, so why not start yours early with a day of blissful pampering and you’ll thank Forum it’s Friday! This package includes a 50 minute top-to-toe Elemis Face and Body Sensation, including a de-stressing body massage and advanced antiaging Elemis facial, light lunch in our private Spa Lounge and full use of the facilities! Make your Fridays fabulous from £79 per person
To make an appointment at the Rhys Giles salon at Celtic Manor call 01633 410323
St Tropez Self Tan Dark Bronzing Spray Spray all over your body for an ultra-even, ultrasmooth beautiful dark tan whatever the weather this summer! £26 from The Forum Spa
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The Celtic Manor Resort
Rooftop Barbecues
On The Menu
J
oin us in the picturesque surroundings of our Rooftop Garden for a sumptuous barbecue buffet including Moroccan lamb kebabs, Texan BBQ pork ribs, burgers, hot dogs, jambalaya and much more, rounded off with an array of delicious desserts. And if the Great British Weather has other ideas, our wonderful allweather Barbecue Terrace will ensure that the party goes with a swing, come rain or shine!
Delightful dining at celtic manor
Divine Dining
W
The all-new afternoon tea spread available in the Olive Tree Garden Room
Time For Tea
L
aunched this summer, our new afternoon tea menu is the perfect way to catch up with friends and family or celebrate a special occasion. Featuring a delicious finger sandwich selection from brioche bridge rolls with Atlantic prawns in Marie Rose sauce to mini bagels filled with Severn and Wye smoked salmon, there’s also a range of handmade sweet treats including praline buttercream pyramids, mango and passion fruit chocolate pot and a scrumptious velvet chocolate cupcake. No afternoon tea would be complete without our wonderful homemade raisin scones served with Rodda's clotted cream and strawberry preserve, washed down with your choice of speciality afternoon tea.
on the menu
e are pleased to announce the arrival of an exciting new fine dining experience at Celtic Manor, which was recently unveiled at an official launch evening hosted by its namesake, Sir Terry Matthews. Formerly The Crown at Celtic Manor, Terry M offers an unforgettable dining experience which will impress the most discerning of gourmets. With the same talented culinary team led by award-winning Head Chef Tim McDougall, Celtic Manor’s flagship fine dining restaurant continues to deliver the exceptional standards which gained it the coveted accolade of 3 AA Rosettes and a renowned reputation for excellence. Same team, same outstanding cuisine, brand new name. As well as an à la carte menu for lunch and dinner, Terry M also offers an express one hour lunch menu for time-stretched business diners and in the evening, an exciting six course tasting menu for groups of diners wishing to share the ultimate gastronomic experience. For reservations, please call 01633 410262 or visit celtic-manor.com
Lunchtime Barbecues
ensures d terrace The covere its ir sp y rt pa dampen
't
rain doesn
£5.25 per person
Evening Barbecues £28 per adult, £14 per child (2-12 years), under 2s eat free
Come Dine With Us
B
e our guest this summer and join an exciting new club for lunchtime diners at Celtic Manor, where you can enjoy an award-winning two-course lunch from as little as £14.95 per person. Pick up your free Celtic Manor Dining Club card next time you visit, then collect a stamp on your card each time you enjoy a two-course lunch for two or more people at Terry M, Rafters, The Lodge or Newbridge on Usk between Monday and Saturday. Dine four times in our range of resort restaurants before the end of September, and enjoy your fifth meal on us! Once your card is complete, simply claim your complimentary two-course lunch for two people in any of the restaurants mentioned above.
C LUB
For more information, please visit celtic-manor.com Terms and conditions apply.
To view the full menu, visit celtic-manor.com Page 18
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The Celtic Manor Resort
Delicious Dining
delicious dining
Fish is always a popular choice for a main course in the summer and here is a mouth-watering cod and shrimp dish from our Newbridge on Usk menu
seasonal dishes from the celtic manor kitchen INGREDIENTS
Method
Serves 4
Pan Fried Fillet of Cod with Brown Shrimp and Kale ‘Colcannon Style’
1. 4 fillets of cod (200g each) 200g brown shrimp 1 head of kale 4 Maris Piper potatoes 1 bunch of spring onions 10 rashers of streaky bacon (pre-cooked until crispy and chopped into bits) 200g butter Juice of one lemon
2. 3.
4. 5.
6. 7.
Cut the potatoes into cubes or any shape you like as long as they are all roughly the same size. Cook until just soft in salted water. Pick nice leaves from the kale and brush lightly with olive oil then pop them on the stove in a non-stick pan, medium heat, with a smaller pot on top to press weight down on them (this will help to steam the kale with its own moisture). Remove when crispy and tender – this should take about 2 minutes. Slice the spring onions and juice the lemon. In a small saucepan bring the butter up to a rolling boil until it just turns brown, then add the brown shrimp, bacon pieces and lemon juice and set to one side. Season the fish with sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Pan fry the cod in a hot non-stick pan, skin side down, until a nice crust starts to appear (3 to 4 minutes), turn over and cook for a few more minutes (the centre can still be a bit undercooked as this will keep on cooking even when removed from pan).
To serve Scatter the kale and potatoes in a random pattern on the plate and place the cod right in the centre. Spoon over the brown shrimp and bacon butter sauce then sprinkle with the sliced spring onions – serve and enjoy!
Serve wi
th
Our som melier w ould ma with a g tch this ood bottle dish of Sanc made fr erre (win om Sau e vignon the Loire Blanc fr om Valley) or a Whit (based o e Bordea n Sauvig ux non Bla splash o nc with f Semillo n that g body to ives mor the wine e ) f rom the Entre De ux Mers .
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The Celtic Manor Resort
Social Scene
social scene
An Evening at Terry M
ISPS Handa Wales Open Gala Dinner
J
The lavish Gala Dinner on the eve of the first ISPS Handa Wales Open was enjoyed by hundreds of guests and players from the tournament. The evening was hosted by TV celebrity and Resort Ambassador Gethin Jones and included a Q&A with Miguel Jiménez and José María Olazábal and a stunning performance from Welsh opera singer Bryn Terfel.
People & parties at celtic manor
une saw the official launch of the Resort’s new fine dining restaurant, Terry M. Guests were invited to join Sir Terry Matthews to celebrate its opening and experience the unique atmosphere while enjoying drinks and canapés at this intimate evening.
Sir Terry Matthew s welcomes guest s to the restaurant lau nch
Marie Longhurst & Ian Ritchie
TV Presenter Gethin Jones was compère for the evening
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Kirsty & Ia
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Patr
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Sir Terry’s Business Networking Evening
S
pecially invited guests enjoyed a unique opportunity to meet like-minded business leaders at an entertaining networking event hosted by Celtic Manor Resort Chairman, Sir Terry Matthews.
s,
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Matteo Man assero, Pabl o Larrazábal Miguel Ang & el Jiménez
Jamie
Darren & Jo
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Oliver Fisher & par
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Maureen
& Gareth
Sim on G ibson Matt OBE hews & answ the fl er qu Sir Terry oor estio ns fr om
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Bob & Dorrina Br
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Edward
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Thynne Beverley Evans
& Shiela Davies
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The Celtic Manor Resort
save the date
Save The Date Don’t miss out! Gourmet Cookery Demonstration
principality Junior Wales Open Final
Wales Rally GB Wales Rally GB celebrates its 80th
Abergavenny Food Festival
Around the Mediterranean
‘Summer Berry Heaven' is a gourmet
Enjoy a great day out and watch some
anniversary this year, and once again the
This annual festival celebrates food and
Adventurous foodies are in for a real
cookery masterclass perfect for
rising stars in action at this summer’s
event will be set against the stunning
traditions from around Wales. With over
culinary treat at The Olive Tree restaurant
food lovers and budding chefs alike.
Principality Junior Wales Open Final on The
backdrop of Wales’ scenery. The 2012 route
200 stalls, this is the perfect place to enjoy
with this exciting themed dining event.
Berry fruits are brimming with
Twenty Ten course, venue of the 2010 Ryder
includes a brand new stage at Celtic Manor,
Abergavenny’s flourishing food community.
With traditional delicacies from Italy,
health benefits and taste great so
Cup. With free admission this is a great
with a range of hospitality packages available
Don't miss a masterclass with our own
France, Greece and Spain, take your
join our culinary team at Terry M
opportunity to support young Welsh golfers
including a meet and greet with the drivers
Tim McDougall, head chef of Terry M, on
tastebuds on a Mediterranean fling!
as they demonstrate the finest in
and spot emerging talent from the golfing
before they head to the starting line.
Sunday 16th September with fascinating
gourmet dining.
stars of the future, so why not come along?
hints and tips about how to get that fine dining experience in the comfort of your
£55 per person, includes a glass of
£25 per person £12.50 per child (2 - 12 years)
own kitchen.
bubbly and canapé reception plus three course lunch with wine
r ts to ou d ticke ir b t ly s r u t Aug book ea til 31s n still You ca dom un g in K as Christm
Ryder Cup Anniversary Challenge
October Half Term
Fireworks Spectacular
Rugby Internationals
Christmas Kingdom
Saturday Night Swing Out
School’s out! Swing through the trees with
Remember, remember this date for
Cardiff’s iconic Millennium Stadium is just
Experience all the magic and sparkle of
Put your glad rags on and step out in style
Marking the second anniversary of what has
the Forest Jump treetop adventure or pick
November and see in the 2012 bonfire
a 30 minute drive from Celtic Manor, and
the festive season as you enjoy a wonderful
for a sensational Saturday night dinner and
been hailed by some as the ‘greatest ever
up a putter and head to the Adventure Golf
celebrations with a bang! Following last
with our dedicated match day transport
winter adventure at our sensational
dance at The Olive Tree Garden Room. Get
Ryder Cup’, we are delighted to invite you to
courses for guaranteed family fun this half
year’s sell-out event, join us once again for a
service, the Resort is an ideal base for
Christmas Kingdom. Glide around the
into the party mood with a truly spectacular
join us in celebrating the momentous final
term!
magnificent festival of fireworks as we light
travelling in to the city to watch the rugby
sparkling ice rink, then watch your
buffet dinner with wine, followed by
up the sky in spectacular style.
action.
children’s faces light up as they visit Santa
dancing until midnight to the sounds of our
in his grotto and meet and pet his real
swing band.
day of The 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor. Package includes breakfast on arrival, 18 holes of four-ball betterball stableford
10th November - Wales v Argentina
reindeer too. So wrap up warm for some
golf with live scoring and a champagne
16th November - Wales v Samoa
winter wonder the whole family will love.
reception in the European Team room
24th November - Wales v New Zealand
followed by a three course dinner.
1st December - Wales v Australia
£45 per person, includes buffet dinner, half a bottle of wine per person and live
Book by 31st August for early bird
entertainment
tickets!
£298 per pair
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The Celtic Manor Resort
Inside View tim mcDOUGALL HEAD CHEF, TERRY M RESTAURANT
How long have you worked at the Resort? Since April 2008 and the opening of The Crown at Celtic Manor which we have now just renamed as Terry M. This was my first head chef’s post after working for two years in France at the 2-Michelin Star Jean Bardet restaurant at Tours. Describe your typical day? I arrive in the morning and usually field a few queries from the team about the upcoming lunch service. I start setting up for lunch and set the menu for the day and catch up with some paperwork and plan future menus. I speak to suppliers on a daily basis because we always use fresh produce and many of the foods are quite specialist. Then it’s prep work in the kitchen and a busy lunch service before going home for a couple of hours’ break and then coming back to do it all again for dinner. Split shifts are not ideal but it comes with the territory with restaurant work. What’s your favourite thing about The Celtic Manor? I love the Terry M restaurant, I think it’s a wonderful dining room and has a great ambience. It’s also good to be working in a small team which is part of a big team. The other restaurants and hotels I have worked in have been smaller so, while the hours are still long, at least here I don’t have to worry about things like breakfast and afternoon tea because we have other restaurants and teams looking after different things.
If you weren’t doing this job, what would you do? If it wasn’t this particular job, I’d certainly still be a chef or working with food elsewhere. I came to the trade in my late 20s after starting off as a builder’s labourer so I know how lucky I am to be doing a job I love. What’s your greatest achievement? Making it to the position of head chef at a fine-dining restaurant like this after coming into the industry so late, and also receiving the award for three AA rosettes here within a year of opening.
celtic community
Who is the most famous person you’ve met at work? I cooked for Michael Caine and Roger Moore in France and here at Celtic Manor we’ve had a number of celebrities through the restaurant and I see the likes of Gareth Edwards and Jonathan Davies on a regular basis. Who would you most like to have dinner with? If I could choose anyone, dead or alive, it would have to be the late Keith Floyd. That would certainly be a laugh, though I wouldn’t try to match him drink for drink! What’s your favourite holiday destination? France, the Loire Valley. My girlfriend’s from Angers and I've got lots of friends from my time working out there so it’s a place we go back to as often as we can. What’s your favourite season? Autumn. It’s a good season for food with most vegetables and fruits still available, and the game is just coming in so there’s a nice crossover of things in season. What’s your favourite type of food? I like to cook the classics but with my own twist and at home I like to eat good, simple food using good quality produce. But I do have to have a takeaway curry at least once a week! What three things could you not live without? My girlfriend, my job and my fishing rod. Name one thing that people don’t know about you. I got a black-belt in karate when I was 13.
! N I
ISPS Success ISPS – the International Sports Promotion Society – the new title sponsor for the Wales Open raised over £21,000 during the tournament week in June which will go towards raising the profile of blind and disabled golf worldwide. The funds were raised at a charity auction during the curtain-raising gala dinner and a variety of initiatives during the tournament week including a blind putting challenge in the tented village.
Celtic Community Making a difference
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What are your hobbies? Fishing – specifically beachcasting on the coast here in South Wales.
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Experience all the magic and sparkle of the festive season at Celtic Manor’s sensational Christmas Kingdom.
Ice Skating 30th November - 6th January Closed 3rd and 4th December
Santa’s Grotto
Meet the Reindeer
30th November - 24th December
30th November - 24th December
Closed 3rd and 4th December
Closed 3rd and 4th December
Child £10.00
Child £8.00
Adult (peak) £8.00 Adult (off-peak) £7.00 Concession £6.00 (students and seniors)* Child (3-12 years) £5.00
Price inclusive of one gift per child and one souvenir photograph per family with Santa
Price inclusive of access to reindeer and one souvenir photograph per family
Prices inclusive of skate hire for the 45 minute session. * Proof may be required
For more information and to book tickets visit celtic-manor.com Advance booking is required for all activities. Full non-refundable pre-payment required at time of booking. Early bird tickets available until 31st August for pre booked tickets only. A booking fee applies to all orders, see website for details.