Plymouth Magazine issue 101

plymouth magazine the

Issue 101 November 2012

INSIDE win panto tickets

winter festival feature 1000 club launch what’s on in plymouth

Published since May 2004 and now DELIVERED FREE

to over 40,000 homes in Plymouth www.plymouthliving.co.uk

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the plymouth magazine

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There’s no getting away from it...

Christmas is coming and we’ll all soon be scratching our heads about what presents to buy.

Plymouth is gearing up for another bumper programme of festive activities and events and we have a big feature inside with plenty of details about exactly what’s going on, when and where.

Plymouth Winter Festival really begins in earnest on November 22 with the big Christmas lights switch-on in the city centre, but even before then we have had the opening of the popular ice rink, back again after its success last year.

You can find all the information about what is happening in the city centre and Barbican over the coming weeks, turn to the special feature which starts on page 14.

Plymouth has an abundance of great retail outlets, both local and national, so why not support your local businesses this Christmas.

Many years ago I worked for P&O on cruise liners, but the nearest I have got to a cruise since then is a trip on the Torpoint Ferry! It was, therefore, very interesting and eye-opening to spend most of a recent September day aboard the luxury cruise liner Silversea Whisper. She had moored in Plymouth Sound for the day part-way on a voyage between Southampton and the East Coast of North America.

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We were invited to join a VIP party which toured the ultra-luxury ship by Anthony Goord from Peter Goord Travel. It was nice to be a passenger – even as a day visitor – rather than a member of staff.

You can find out about how the day went on Silversea Whisper and details of an exciting Caribbean cruise offer on pages 44 to 46.

Peter Goord Travel are organising a special Silversea Cruise evening on November 13 so why not go along and find out more.

Hope you enjoy the latest issue – and thanks for all the positive feedback for last month’s 100th issue.

Publishers: Chris Girdler and Ian Pilkington Editor: Debbie Girdler Designers: Lawrence Bird and Sven Lauch Photography: Roy Perring Contributors: Kerry Cole; Phil Thorneycroft; Fiona Newton and Derek Anderson.

Advertising sales: Naomi Shearer, Sarah Simpson, Lisette Hicklin, Stefanie Clifton-Sprigg and Shakira Floyd Distribution: John Kowalski Finance: Kim Craig Front cover: Christopher Biggins and Basil Brush get up close and friendly as they prepare to appear in Dick Whittingrton at The Theatre Royal. Photo by Roy Perring Contacts: Editorial Tel: 01752 268635 e-mail: chris@cornerstonevision.com Advertising Tel: 01752 225623 e-mail: ian@cornerstonevision.com The views expressed in the plymouth magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of all information contained in this magazine. However, the publishers do not accept any liability for any advice or information included in the magazine. the plymouth magazine is distributed free to 40,000 homes across Plymouth each month, with a further 5,000 copies strategically placed in leisure and retail outlets in Plymouth, Saltash and Tavistock.

Published by Cornerstone Vision, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth PL3 4PY Tel 01752 225623 Fax 01752 673441 e-mail info@cornerstonevision.com web: www.plymouthliving.co.uk

the plymouth magazine

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They also provide comfort and support for the feet and toes and Pamela was delighted with the

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november 2012 edition

winter extravaganza

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1,000 club launch

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state of the art college

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what’s on in plymouth

rugby coup for albion

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energy saving advice

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Businesses in Plymouth are being encouraged to give young people a start in their working lives by taking on apprentices, through work experience and mentoring

A new £4m contemporary crafts workshop at Plymouth College of Art will help to create 100 new places for apprentices in 2014

Plymouth Albion have been chosen to host the opening game of the Under 20s Six Nations tournament with a match between champions England and Scotland on February 1

Plymouth City Centre and Barbican businesses are gearing up for the important Christmas period with a whole host of events and special attractions

The award-winning stage production of War Horse will launch its first-ever UK tour next year at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth

Homeowners could save hundreds of pounds on their annual gas bill by installing a new A-rated boiler – according to Darren Parker of Plymstock Plumbing and Heating

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business matters

prince’s trust gave plumber damon the start he needed Damon Foster is a plumbing and heating engineer with a difference.

As well as owning and running Plymco Plumbing and Heating, serving Plymouth and the surrounding area, Damon is the founder and chairman of ‘Trust In Us’, a business support group he runs in conjunction with the Prince’s Trust for the benefit of Trust supported businesses in the local area.

The Trust In Us group meets once a month at Café Kiss on North Street, Bretonside. Business Business owners who are connected to the Prince’s Trust share experiences and knowledge, problem solve for each other, share business leads, and discuss how to best run their own businesses professionally.

Guest speakers with experience in business make presentations to the the group every month, and these guests are of the highest calibre (for example Philip Hamilton, ex-CEO of Wrigleys, has recently spoken to the group about marketing).

Most people know from experience that plumbers are busy people, so why, and how, does Damon find time to co-ordinate all this and manage his thriving business at the same time?

“It all started because I have been helped a great deal by the Prince’s Trust itself,” said Damon.

“I worked from the age of 14 with my grandad, who gave me an apprenticeship in plumbing and heating. Then, seven years ago, grandad died in a tragic work-related accident.”

Damon Foster of Plymco Plumbing and Heating

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Damon was also involved in the accident, although he escaped physically unharmed. However, the trauma of the event eventually led to Damon experiencing symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder and he took time out from the trade to focus on something else.

The years after his grandad’s death were a bit of a blur for Damon, with a lot of emotional difficulty as he came to terms with what had happened. He went to university, and achieved a degree in broadcast engineering.

It was good to have the degree course to focus on, and he developed a love for film making at that time too. But that wouldn’t pay the bills, and after researching career options he realised that as a plumbing and heating engineer he could earn a good living using his skills, which he would enjoy more (and be paid more) than the broadcast engineering jobs he had been offered.

The idea of running his own business appealed to his go-getting nature, so Damon went back to his tools, moved from Stockport to Plymouth, and set up on his own two years ago. Damon financed the start-up with compensation money he had received after the accident, but soon found that business expenses were eating up his capital during that crucial first hard year of the business.

He turned to Business Link for advice, who pointed him in the direction of the Prince’s Trust, whose Enterprise programme helps people aged 18-30 to work out if their business ideas are viable and whether self-employment is right for them.

Damon enrolled, and with the help of excellent mentoring he successfully launched Plymco with a sustainable business plan.

“When I moved to Plymouth, I saw that the city is a world of opportunity for new businesses – I was keen to set up on my own and was doing everything I knew how to do, as well as I could,” he said.

“I had plenty of experience in my trade, with all that I had learned from my grandad, who was a real stickler for plumbing excellence. But my mentors showed me how to do the business side properly, from marketing through to admin and finding funding sources. Their advice has been unparalleled.”

Now that his business is becoming established, the Trust mentors are still on hand and Damon often phones them for advice.

“I would really recommend the Trust’s Enterprise programme,” commented Damon.

“It’s made all the difference to me, and I’m glad to be able to give them something back with the free Business Support Group.”

Trust In Us, as well as being the name of that group, could well be the slogan for this enterprising young man’s Plymco Plumbing and Heating company.

To find out more about the Prince’s Trust, go to www.princes-trust.org.uk Plymco Plumbing and Heating, tel 01752 425 177, 077623 43133 www.plymcoplumbing.co.uk

Sally & David enjoying their new kitchen. Read about other customers experiences on our feedback page at www.kfkitchens.co.uk

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For more information contact Richard Harding on 01752 662662 the plymouth magazine

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plymouth matters

1,000 ways to help young Last month saw the launch of the 1000 Club in Plymouth, an initiative set up by the Plymouth Growth Board – a partnership between business and senior public sector leaders – to create 1000 opportunities for young people, which will support them into employment.

With 35% of Plymouth’s total claimants being in the 18 - 24 year age group, the issue of youth worklessness needs to be on everyone’s lips.

The 1000 Club is aiming to develop opportunities through work experience, apprenticeships, graduate internships or jobs and it’s very simple to get involved.

Companies in the city are able to sign up and channel enquiries through the website – see 1000Club.co.uk - and will be given straightforward advice and guidance about how they can engage with young people and the support organisations which can help both parties.

It’s vital that our young people get all the help they need to be work-ready, so that they can meet the expectations businesses have to support their growth and that of the local economy. New findings from national FSB research back in August found that eight in 10 businesses don’t believe school leavers are ready for work and say more should be done to help prepare them for employment.

Nearly 60 per cent of survey respondents who already employ 16 to 17-year-olds reported that their young employees had poor literacy skills. Numeracy was also judged to be poor by 55 per cent and 56 per cent said communication skills fell short.

Unsurprisingly, two thirds of FSB members said that improving basic literacy and numeracy skills would better prepare young people for work in a small business and with still a million young people without work, the FSB is concerned that young

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Early careers guidance and equipping young people with skills such as CV writing, time-keeping, problem solving and team working would not only help employers, but would give young people a better understanding of potential jobs and career paths.

In a little over two weeks since its launch, 40 companies have signed up to the 1000 Club, with four apprentices, two work experience placements, two school work experience placements and five new company ambassadors now engaging with the initiative on a practical level.

There are lots of encouraging pluses about this initiative - it is city-driven and flexible, offering businesses of all sizes some support in linking up with young people and ensuring that even the smallest of businesses can contribute to and benefit from future improvements in Plymouth’s skilled workforce.

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people into work Looking an another city initiative, Plymouth FSB has also been working with Plymouth Guild to launch a project on corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities at Devonport Guildhall on Thursday 12 November at 11am. This free event is called ‘Bridging The Sectors’ and will explain how improving volunteering opportunities in Plymouth can benefit not only the voluntary and community sector, but also businesses.

You or your employees can really make a difference to the success of a voluntary group or charity by lending them a hand with something they’re not used to doing, so the project aims to make it a lot easier to broker volunteering roles and help businesses to develop ‘pro bono’ offers. It also highlights the real benefits of companies being involved in CSR – for instance, your own and your employees’ job satisfaction and professional development.

Maybe you’re an accountant who can squeeze an hour to offer expert advice to a burgeoning local charity? Perhaps you have a couple of energetic employees who are brilliant with paintbrushes who could be pointed in the right direction?

Whatever you can do, you will be contributing to improving people’s circumstances in Plymouth, applying your skills in a different way and probably making new contacts in the process.

‘Bridging the Sectors’ is free to attend and includes a networking lunch. Headline guest speaker is Ben Mee from Dartmoor Zoo who already has direct experience of this project. Spaces can be booked by calling Gill on Plymouth 201766.

To quote the English poet John Donne, ‘No man is an island’. We are all better off helping someone else - and you can choose the way you want to do it.

If you would like some information on becoming a member of the FSB, please contact the Devon Regional Office on 01803 322 499. You can follow us on Twitter on PlymouthFSB and Facebook.

City council leader Tudor Evans pictured at the launch of the 1000 Club with (from left) Richard Stevens, managing director of Plymouth Citybus, Steve Cardew, deputy managing director of Kawasaki Precision Machinery and Graham Stirling of Plymouth Growth Board

the plymouth magazine

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education matters

state of the art workshop will create places for 100 apprentices A £4 million hi-tech contemporary crafts workshop under construction at Plymouth College of Art will create an additional 100 places for apprentices by 2014.

That was the upbeat message from college principal Professor Andrew Brewerton at a special turf cutting ceremony to officially mark the start of construction on the new building.

Prof Brewerton said that the new workshop was the first phase in the college’s far-reaching estates masterplan and long-term business plan, which will involve upgrading facilities across the college. The second phase of the plan will see the addition of print making and textiles technology.

Prof Brewerton said that the new workshop will house industry-standard technologies in glass, ceramics and metals from furnaces, kilns and cold-processing, to digital tools and hightech machining and cutting processes.

The 2,000 sq metres of specialist space will feature sophisticated ceramics and glass workshops, with new large-scale architectural glass kilns and smallscale metals.

“There will be a new design workshop with a range of computer-aided digital design facilities for rapid prototyping, including 3D scanning and printing, milling and laser cutting. The Students mark the start of the next phase in workshop will also the Plymouth College of Art’s estates accommodate student masterplan. Pictured at the turf cutting work stations, social ceremony are (from left) Ryan Kerslake, Jane Mooney and Emma Stevenson, along learning hubs and with Paula Andrew and children Bethany, display areas. who goes to the Outside the Lines Saturday He added: “Plymouth Club, and Jordan

College of Art is working against the grain of decline and closure in this critical area of art and design education,

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An architect’s impression of how the new £4 million contemporary craft workshop will look when it is completed in September 2013

with a capital innovation that will shape the professional practice and career horizons of the next generation of talented designers and makers.”

The creation of a fabrication laboratory - only the second of its kind in the UK - will give students of all ages the opportunity to gain vital practical experience in manufacturing and making.

crafts symposium Making Futures will be hosted by Plymouth College of Art in 2013 and the college will also curate the international glass pavilion at Art Shanghai on an annual basis.

This followed the college’s success in curating the pavilion for the first time in 2012.

The workshop, which is due to open in September 2013, will also enable new creative and educational opportunities in craft and design for manufacture for apprentices through to postgraduate masters students.

Prof Brewerton said that the links with Shanghai and China were opening up exciting opportunities for students from Plymouth to collaborate with glass manufacturers in China.

He said that Plymouth College of Art is attracting increasing recognition for innovation in arts education and as a national and international centre for contemporary crafts.

Plymouth College of Art principal Professor Andrew Brewerton

The third edition of the biennial international contemporary

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art matters

kaya exhibition showcases local artistic talent Following the success of the Kaya Gallery’s summer show, a similar event is being held this autumn.

With Christmas in mind, beautiful artwork will be displayed again at The Treasury in Plymouth. You are invited to go along on Saturday November 17 between 10am and 4pm.

Norman Holmes and his Kaya team will be showcasing the work of their very best artists, many of whom will be on hand to chat.

This will include the leading UK naive artist Brian Pollard who will be exhibiting some brand new originals.

Also in attendance will be local glass artists Barbara and Kelly of M&D Glass with a full range of their wonderful pieces. This occasion represents another opportunity to purchase a great investment or Christmas gift.

I caught up with two of the exhibitors to find out more about their work.

by

Kerry Cole

Emily Connor is a Plymouth based artist.

Graduating from Canterbury Christ Church University with a Fine Art Degree in 2005, Emily returned to Plymouth to follow her dream of becoming a full-time painter.

Since one of her most significant pieces of art ‘Tumultuous Dawn’ was created in 2005, her work has quickly grown in popularity.

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the plymouth magazine

Sarah Blakey with one of her seascapes

Plymouth artist Emily Connor with one of her text-art works

Emily’s biggest art inspiration is the beauty of nature. The ‘Puddle Painting’ Collections were a turning point for her as they reinvented the way she works.

Her autumnal scene has been compared to that of Alphonse Mucha, being ‘quite Art Nouveau in an organic way’.

Emily’s art pieces have become even more celebrated of late, with the creation of her unusual hand-painted ‘Text Art’ collections. Here she produces personalised pieces of original art to compliment any occasion, special moment, or momentous historical events.

Using this ‘Writing Painter’ style, Emily carefully uses free-hand to intricately write meaningful words onto wood or canvas. Recently, her work attracted the attention of the London Olympians, with Plymouth’s Tom Daley requesting a painting for himself. Using a newspaper article style, she creates very contemporary images that have a lovely unpredictable element to them.

Equally popular, her ‘To Bring a Smile’ collection showcase inspirational plaquestyle paintings. Text Paintings can be personalised with names, dates and more.

Occasions may include: Wedding, Christening, Anniversary, New Baby, Birthday, New Home or any Historical event.

Whether the painting is for yourself or a unique gift for someone special, Emily will be happy to discuss your ideas including font style, painting size and colour combinations.

For more information, you can contact Emily directly on 07793 031305, or by visiting www.emilyconnorart.com and www.thewritingpainter.com Sarah Blakey received much interest in her paintings at the last summer show.

Having lived in the West Country for most of her life, Sarah enjoys soaking up the atmosphere of the many harbours, estuaries, and creeks, always returning to her studio with a wealth of material and ideas.

An avid photographer, she spends many hours recording the working life and leisure activities of the Devon and Cornwall coastline. These form the inspiration for her paintings of rivers, seascapes, boats and fishermen.

Sarah paints in chromacolour, a densely pigmented, permanent and lightfast medium. First developed for colouring animation cells, it was adapted into highquality artists’ paint. The velvety matt finish gives her paintings the depth and vibrancy she seeks.

The choice of colour in Sarah’s paintings reflects her interest in Indian silks and textiles. There is often a hue of rich spice incorporated into her images. Her work is about bringing colour and interest to everyday scenes in order to capture the essence of life on the rivers and seas.

She builds up layers of shapes as the painting progresses, the curve of a sea wall becoming the hull of a boat, the foot of a cliff becoming the shape of a fisherman’s back. Her images are stripped of unnecessary detail but always retain a strong design element.

You can contact Sarah via email at sarah@highscape.co.uk Do feel free to pop down to the Treasury on November 17: I am sure Norman Holmes and the artists at the Kaya exhibition will be very pleased to see you.

Kerry Cole is author of an arts style book called The Purple Veil. For more information visit www.thepurpleveil.com the plymouth magazine

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festive matters

city all set for bumper christmas celebrations Plymouth’s Winter Festival is back for 2012, bringing together a whole host of festive fun and frolics for all the family.

All the most popular seasonal entertainment will be returning, including the Winter Ice Rink, Christmas lights switch on, Christmas market, lantern parade and late night shopping. Santa’s Grotto will be moving to a new home on Frankfort Gate, and Plymouth’s waterfront will be getting into the Christmas spirit too with its own line up of festive fun.

Brand new for 2012, Plymouth City Centre Company is teaming up with other local organisations to introduce the ShopPlymouth Saver Card – a great way for shoppers to access exclusive discounts and offers across the city, helping to make money go further this Christmas. Simply Sign up online at www.shopplymouth.co.uk to get the free Shop Plymouth Saver Card.

Christmas Lights Switch On Thursday November 22 The Winter Festival action kicks off on with the hugely popular switching on of the Christmas lights.

Organised by Plymouth City Council in association with

Heart FM, the Christmas lights switch on is set to be the best in Devon and Cornwall, with live acts and free entertainment from 4pm all building up to the big switch on at 6.15pm. Special guests this year include Christopher Biggins, ‘Gaga Unleashed’, the Military Wives Choir and Joker.

The Christmas lights switch on also marks the first evening of late night shopping in the city centre, which will continue every Thursday December 20. Shops will be open until 8pm and festive treats like mulled wine and mince pies will also be on offer.

Plymouth Christmas Market November 22 to December 24 As the Christmas lights switch on entertainment takes place, the Plymouth Christmas market will open to the public with a wide range of original gifts and treats to tempt shoppers looking for something a little different.

Traders at the traditional European style market will be selling everything from handmade arts and crafts to jewellery and clothing at the stalls on Armada Way and Cornwall Street.

• continued on next page

Be Inn with the Inn Crowd for a Christmas venue with a difference!

Book your Christmas party with us for a seasonal celebration with a difference - and give your tastebuds the gift of good flavours!

Pre-theatre meals Fresh-cooked, funky food Wide range of alcoholic/non-alcoholic drinks, organic, fair-trade teas and coffees

www.barbicantheatre.co.uk For show tickets, call The Barbican Theatre box office on 01752 267131 14

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www.b-bar.co.uk For table reservations & party bookings, call B-Bar on 01752 242021

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Barbican Jeweller Peardrops Jewellery has extended and is now also Peardrops Beadshop. To complement our beautiful jewellery we are now stocking a large selection of beads and findings. With over 20 years of experience in beaded jewellery, Anne decided she needed to share her love of beads. With an extensive selection of findings and beautiful beads, from seed beads to the big and bold, come and see for yourself the great selection we have here in Peardrops Beadshop. www.peardropsjewellery.com Monica Grist has been the Barbican Jeweller for 15 Years, making her an expert in Gold, Silver and Vintage costume Jewellery. Not only offering a beautiful selection of necklaces, earrings, brooches and more she also offers a repair service for your own costume jewellery needing some TLC. Never having two of the same piece you will always find something unique, special and at the right price at the Barbican Jewellers.

We sell a range of gifts from handmade, personalised flag bunting to major pieces of artwork by renowned artists and much, much more. All complimented by our shabby chic furniture that’s been treated with our stock of Autentico paint.

We run a range of workshops and sewing parties that can be held at either The House that Jack Built or our sister shop at Mount Edgcumbe.

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Love Buttons? Looking for some unusual buttons or that funky piece of button jewellery? You’ve found the perfect place.

We sell funky and unusual buttons, button jewellery, button clothing, button cards and button gifts. We offer a free gift wrapping service along with gift vouchers and button jewellery workshops. For that perfect unusual gift pop down to funky poppy to check out all the beautiful locally handmade button delights. www.funkypoppy.com

The Secret Garden Flowers is owned and operated by Louise Brumpton, who has had a passion for flowers since helping her Nan in the garden as a little girl. Louise turned her passion into her business, creating bouquets, bridal, funeral and corporate flowers in her refurbished shop. She is the Corporate Florist for the Theatre Royal, and offers a free Bridal floral design service.

Visit www.thesecretgardenflowers.co.uk or call 01752 222725! the plymouth magazine

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festive matters

ice rink returns to city centre for another year • continued from previous page There will also be plenty of festive food and drink on offer, with toasty treats including mulled wine and fresh crepes to keep you warm while you browse the market.

New for 2012, celebrity chefs Chris and James Tanner will be opening a market stall, where their team will be cooking up a storm with all sorts of delectable goodies available, including roast turkey, stuffing and cranberry rolls and roast pork, crackling, stuffing and apple sauce rolls.

The market is open every day until Christmas Eve, and will be open late every Thursday for Plymouth’s late night shopping.

Plymouth Winter Ice Rink – open throughout November, December, January and February The open air ice rink on the Piazza returns, and will be transforming into a Christmas Winter Wonderland to coincide with the Christmas lights switch on event on November 22.

On November 22, Ice Angel Events will be putting on a special evening show with a dazzling display from Plymouth Pavilions Figure Skating Club that’s sure to wow and inspire onlookers to take to the ice themselves.

Operated by Ice Angel Events, the open air rink on the Piazza will be host hourly skating sessions from 9am to 8.15pm Mondays to Saturdays and 9am to 6.15pm on Sundays. As well as regular skating sessions, the rink will also be hosting ice skating lessons, parties and skating shows.

On Christmas Eve, children will have the unmissable chance to have breakfast with Santa at the rink, with breakfast, a special Christmas present and a skating session all for just £10. Daily ice skating sessions begin at half past the hour, with ticket prices starting at just £3. For more information visit www.iceangelevents.co.uk or go

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the plymouth magazine

11am with the raising of the flags of the USA and the UK.

to the booking office on the Piazza.

Santa’s Grotto November 22 to December 24 Santa has a new home in Plymouth this year, at his Christmas Grotto on Frankfort Gate.

Situated in the pedestrianised heart of Plymouth’s Independent Quarter, Santa will be welcoming families to celebrate the magic of Christmas.

Every child visiting Santa in his grotto will receive a fantastic gift and can have a photo taken with him to capture the special moment. Tickets to see Santa are just £5 per child, including a special gift wrapped present. For details and opening times go to www.shopplymouth.co.uk Thanksgiving Celebration November 22 To celebrate the American public holiday Thanksgiving, Plymouth’s own Thanksgiving Celebration will begin its journey outside the Plymouth Guildhall at

The US President’s representative will be the Naval Attaché from the US Embassy in London, Captain Stracener and his family. The celebration continues with the Annual Thanksgiving Service and wreath laying at 12pm at the Mayflower Steps on West Pier.

Twinkling Twilight Lantern Parade December 6 Plymouth’s magical lantern parade is back for 2012 and promises to be even more spectacular than ever before.

One of the highlights of the city’s Winter Festival, the lantern parade will see around 300 children from local schools in Plymouth working with local theatre company Stiltskin to create hundreds of fantastically creative paper lanterns, which will light up the city centre as the parade passes by.

Families will be able to watch Santa lead the parade in his sleigh pulled by real reindeer, and will also have the chance to meet the reindeer in their paddock earlier in the afternoon.

To meet the reindeer before the parade, visit the paddock next to Santa’s Grotto at

• continued on next page

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17

festive matters

big line up of events barbican and city • continued from previous page Frankfort Gate between 3pm and 5pm. The parade will begin at 6pm, leaving from the City Market car park on Cornwall Street and winding its way through the city centre streets. Live musical entertainment will be provided by DakaDoum, a samba and brass band playing a mix of Afro-Brazilian and percussion music.

The Waterfront ‘Odd Window Out Trail’ throughout December Plymouth Waterfront Partnership will be hosting a magical children’s trail competition to discover the ‘odd window out’ among the many individual and independent shops lining the festive waterfront streets.

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the plymouth magazine

Pleased to be of service...David Harris of Just Leather

Pleased to be of service...the team from The House that Jack Built in the Barbican

in the centre Competition entry forms are available online at www.visitplymouth.co.uk and also from the Tourist Information Cente on the Barbican. The trail is open until Christmas Eve, when the winning entry will be drawn.

Santa Fun Run December 9

Christmas Celebrations at the

TudorRose 36 New Street, The Barbican, PL1 2NA

Pleased to be of service...the team from Choccacino on the Barbican

This popular event is returning for the third year on Sunday December 9 starting at 11am.

Organisers, The Rotary Club of Saltram, are hoping to attract 1,000 santas’ this year with all funds raised being donated to some great charities including Dame Hannah Rogers, Diabetes UK and CHICKS together with their own Rotary charities.

The route will be as in previous years around the city centre and involve the following roads: Market Avenue, New George Pleased to be of service...Victoria Street, Eastlake Walk and Hedges of Wrays Jewellers Cornwall Street. To register for the event visit the website www.shopplymouth.co.uk and follow the Events link.

• continued on next page

A truly delightful Dickensian Christmas lunch/dinner set in a 16th century building along the cobbled streets of the Barbican. New Street being one of the oldest streets in Plymouth full of character of days gone by.

Our freshly prepared 4 course Christmas meal starts Sat. 24th November – Sun. 23rd December Lunch 12 noon onwards £22.95 Dinner 6pm onwards £25.00 Bring your own wine at £1.00 per bottle corkage

For bookings Telphone 07828539307 Email sylviaoneill@msn.com

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discount with this Plymouth Magazine advert on your next visit

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the plymouth magazine

19

Christmas Exhibition 2012

festive matters

Tantalising jewellery from 9 new designers:

all set for bumper

Balbina Lara Bryony Stanford Jenny Llewellyn Judith Brown Michael Carberry Petra Bishai Rie Tanabe Stephanie Johnson Stephanie Ray

• continued from previous page Barbican Late Night Shopping December 12 Shops, cafes and galleries on the historic quayside streets of the Barbican will welcome shoppers on December 12 by staying open until 8pm for late night Christmas shopping.

Victoria Sewart Contemporary Jewellery Gallery 39 Southside Street, The Barbican, Plymouth Phone: 01752 220011

Image: Jenny Llewellyn

With a whole host of independent retailers, the Barbican is the perfect place to find a truly unique gift, and there will also be mulled wine and seasonal treats on offer while you browse.

For more Jewellery, Online Shop and Jewellery Workshops (Including “Make Your Own Wedding Rings”) visit us at: www.victoriasewart.com

Other events in Plymouth this winter: The Greatest Story Never Told December 7 to December 23 Exeter-based award winning clowning and physical theatre company Le Navet Bete are coming back this Christmas with their amazing and wonderfully inventive take on the nativity, The Greatest Story Never Told, at the Barbican Theatre. Tickets are from £8, call 01752 267131 to book.

Barbican Christmases Past – throughout December South West Image Bank is running a photo exhibition of Christmases past on the Barbican. Showing throughout December, the exhibition is located on the historic cobbled waterfront outside the Tourist Information Centre.

Dick Whittington December 14 to January 19 Christopher Biggins, the ultimate pantomime dame, returns to the Theatre Royal joined by the foxy TV star Basil Brush to star in Dick Whittington as Sarah the cook.

Biggins will be dishing out huge helpings of comedy aided by the Spirit of the Bells, played by Plenty of gift ideas at Parade Antiques Hilary O’Neil, attempting to help the handsome hero. Panto at the Theatre Royal has become as traditional a part of the festive season in Plymouth as hanging the stockings up on Christmas Eve, and this year promises to be another spectacular.

PLYMOUTH IN THE FIFTIES & SIXTIES

Sam Smith and Steve Coombe at the Jewellery Design Studio

Tickets are from £12, call 01752 267222 or visit www.theatreroyal.com to book.

THE NEW BOOK

By CHRIS ROBINSON

20 Untitled-1 1

the plymouth magazine 13/10/2012 09:52:45

Pleased to be of service...Marianna Punak at Tudor Rose Tearooms on the Barbican

The New Iconic Collection

by Nicola Hurst

christmas

A unique gallery, now open 6 years, selling jewellery, glass, ceramics and other gift items; all hand made in the UK; all exclusive to Plymouth and now available to buy online at www.nicolahurst.co.uk Nicola makes jewellery on the premises.

Commissions and repairs undertaken.

Christmas Exhibition starting 8th November, Showcasing 4 new jewellers plus Christmas gifts and decorations all handmade in the UK.

01752 228000

By Sophie Honeybelle

l www.nicolahurst.co.uk

65 Hyde Park Rd l Plymouth l PL3 4JN

Cinderella On Ice December 23 to January 5 The Russian Ice Stars deliver a dazzling interpretation of this enchanting story loved by all ages, a treat for the whole family at the Plymouth Pavilions. Tickets are from ÂŁ10, call 0845 146 1460 or visit www.plymouthpavilions.com to book.

Pleased to be of service...Eliza with customers at Coffee Bean Central in the city centre

Pleased to be of service...Julie Martin at Rickard Lanes the plymouth magazine

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what’s on?

Chris Biggins and other members of the cast meet Plymouth’s Lord Mayor Coun Michael Williams at the Mayor’s Parlour

musicians from the acclaimed Tony and Olivier Award winning Watermill Theatre in this gloriously funny musical comedy. In the heart of London’s Blitz-torn West End, the cast of BBC’s light entertainment radio show, Variety Bandwagon are doing their bit for the war effort. But with the bombs falling outside, can star of the show Sammy Shaw hang on to his leading lady and broadcast live to America for the first time? Chock-full of quick-fire gags, side-splitting routines and classic songs from one of our ‘best of British’ musical talents, Noel Gay (Me and My Girl), Radio Times features forties’ favourites such as Run Rabbit Run, Hey Little Hen, My Thanks To You and There’s Something About A Soldier.

theatres & shows Theatre Royal

Royal Parade Plymouth Box Office 01752 267222 www.theatreroyal.com

Nov 5 to 10 Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty

Matthew Bourne’s haunting new production is a Gothic Romance for all ages; a supernatural love story that even the passage of time cannot hinder.

Dec 14 to Jan 19 Dick Whittington

young dancers aged between 18 and 24 from across the world have been selected by choreographer Ohad Naharin and will be the future of contemporary dance. Deca Dance is a collection of Naharin’s most memorable and favourite segments of his creations over the last 20 years, with music ranging from The Beach Boys to Vivaldi.

Nov 11 That’ll be the Day

This hugely entertaining rock ‘n’ roll spectacular features an all new line up of knock-out hits from the 1950s, 60s and 70s, mixed with loads of new zany comedy routines to produce a show with a real feel good party atmosphere.

Nov 13 to Nov 17 Glyndebourne

Glyndebourne brings world-class opera on its 25th visit to the Theatre Royal this November with Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro (The Marriage of Figaro) and Rusalka, Dvorak’s take on Hans Christian Anderson’s The Little Mermaid.

Gary Wilmot (Chicago, Me and My Girl) and Olivier Award winner Sara Crowe (Private Lives, Four Weddings and a Funeral) lead a cast of fifteen actor-

It’s a pantomime adventure paved in gold and packed with glittering spectacle. The country’s favourite pantomime Dame, Christopher Biggins, returns to the Theatre Royal by popular demand as Sarah the Cook, who will be dishing out huge helpings of comedy aided and abetted by the

INVITATION

Nov 26 to Dec 1 Chicago

A nightclub singer, a double-murderess, a smooth-talking lawyer and a cell block of sin - this Broadway and West End classic comes to Plymouth with Ali Bastian (Hollyoaks, The Bill) as Roxie Hart, Stefan Booth (EastEnders, Dancing On Ice) as Billy Flynn and Bernie Nolan as Matron ‘Mama’ Morton.

With a score including All That Jazz and Razzle Dazzle, it would be a crime to miss it.

You are invited to our

Exclusive Silversea Evening on 13th November from 6pm at our West Park office.

Nov 18 Stewart Francis – Outstanding in his Field

443 Crownhill Rd, Plymouth, PL5 2HG

The winner of the funniest joke at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe, master of one-liners and star of Mock The Week, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow and Live At The Apollo embarks on a new tour with an hilarious new show!

Come and visit us if you would like to learn more about Silversea Cruises, meet past passengers and one of their cruise managers.

Nov 23 and 24 Batsheva Ensemble

Israel’s outstanding Batsheva Dance Company is showcasing their new talent, Batsheva Ensemble, in the UK for the first time this autumn. Talented

Dec 3 to Dec 8 Radio Times – The Musical

To reserve your place please call us on Gary Wilmot and Sara Crowe star in Radio Times - The Musical

01752 364186 (numbers are limited)

the plymouth magazine

23

what’s on?

theatres & shows loveable icon of children’s television, Basil Brush as Alderman Foxwarren.

Will the Spirit of the Bells, played

by Hilary O’Neil, be able to help our handsome hero? There’s only one way to find out!

Drum Theatre Royal Parade Plymouth Box Office 01752 267222

Oct 30 to Nov 3 1 Beach Road

1 Beach Road is the new play from the award winning RedCape Theatre. It is a tale of friendship, defiance, a shrinking island, synchronized swimming and trying to turn back the tide.

Nov 6 to Nov 17 All That Is Wrong

Belgian company Ontroerend Goed bring their latest show back to Plymouth, following A History of Everything, Audience, Teenage Riot and Under The Influence. Everything is wrong. The big

stuff, the little stuff and everything in between. How must this look through the eyes of a teenager? Especially when the adults seem to have no idea how to fix things.

Nov 20 to 24 Stories from an Invisible Town

When Hugh Hughes returned to his childhood home in Llangefni to help his mum pack and move house, a tapestry of memories from his past, his family and the town he once called home began to unfold… Now we have the chance to join Hugh, his brother and his sister, as family skeletons leave their closets in this unpredictable and hilarious evening of family stories.

Nov 27 to Dec 1 Thirsty

Based on our nation’s love affair with alcohol, Thirsty weaves together real stories, memories and booze-based confessions collected from a ‘drunken hotline’ and an online questionnaire.

Combining live music, verbatim text and physical theatre, it looks at the stories and social repercussions of lost memories, bruised knees, uncontrollable laughter and sore heads.

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the plymouth magazine

Dec 4 to Jan 19 The Hare and the Tortoise

Following the sell-out success of last year’s The Elves and the Shoemaker, Stuff & Nonsense return this Christmas with their unswerving energy and inventive charm to retell the classic Aesop fable, The Hare and the Tortoise.

Dec 5 to Dec 23 Barbershopera: The Three Musketeers

B-Bar at the Barbican Theatre

Castle Street, Plymouth 01752 242021 www.b-bar.co.uk

Nov 2 The Roosters

Fantastically fun jump-jive band The Roosters entertain the Mad About Swing dancers on an evening timed to coincide with The Swing Thing - a weekend dedicated to swing dancing.

Reinventing Alexandre Dumas’ classic adventure story with some fresh four-part harmonies, the three guys and a girl sing you through the epic adventure of d’Artagnan and The Three Musketeers.

Nov 7 and Dec 5 Comedy Night

Barbican Theatre Castle Street, Plymouth Box Office: 01752 267131

Jazz and swing stylings from this fingerpicking guitar man who makes them as good as he plays them!

Dec 7 to Dec 23 The Greatest Story Never Told

Nov 9 Tex and CP – featuring Noel Harrison

Following the huge success of the 2011 sell-out Christmas run, Le Navet Bete is back again with this spectacular and unique version of the traditional Christmas Nativity. (See panel opposite)

Some light relief with the best standups on the UK circuit.

Nov 8 Tom Anfield

Tex and CP are Noel Harrison and Phil Rossiter. Noel is best known in the UK for his Oscar-winning performance of The Windmills of Your Mind in the original Thomas Crown Affair. Noel and Phil play country, folk, swing, tex mex and

greatest story never told returns to barbican Award-winning international clown troupe Le Navet Bete is returning to Plymouth’s Barbican Theatre with their rip-roaring and hilarious take on the Christmas nativity – The Greatest Story...Never Told.

Such was the success of the show when it arrived in Plymouth last year that the team have been asked back to do it all again – and this time it will be even bigger and better.

The show features 173 characters in one hour played by four wild and wacky clowns running through the gamut of characters like a dose of very funny salts. And this time, not only are the company working with the Barbican’s artistic director Mark Laville to develop the show before it hits the boards again at Christmas, but there will also a fully decked out Inn at the theatre for the audience to enjoy a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine. other eclectic delights.

Nov 14, Nov 28 and Dec 12 Café Acoustica

Fortnightly showcase of unplugged talent, hosted by singer-songwriter Jessie Mullen.

Nov 15 Benny Guitar Carr

Solo bluesman on vintage guitar.

Self-styled tom-foolery experts Le Navet Bete started life as a group of friends who met at university, discovered they found the same kind of things funny and decided to try and make careers out of it.

The company (Alex, Alex, Dan, Matt and Nick) hail from the West Country, Oxford, Reading, the Forest of Dean and Australia but are now based in Exeter and are adamant that the South West audiences are the best.

To get a little taste of what to expect, Le Navet Bete will be part of the Plymouth Christmas Lights switch on celebrations on November 22 and will also be taking to the stage in Place de Brest during the run of the show at the theatre showcasing their talents.

The Greatest Story...Never Told by Le Navet Bete is on at the Barbican Theatre from December 7 to 23 with matinee and evening performances.

For more information and tickets go to www.barbicantheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 01752 267131.

Joseph and Mary - La Navet Bete style

Violinist-vocalist Sianed performs a night of unforgettable songs, irresistible melodies and captivating vocals.

The Week and BBC1’s Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow returns with a brand new show that questions the ideas of community and responsibility.

Nov 17 Ava Vidal

Nov 18 Jazz Morley

Nov 16 Sianed Jones

Following a sell out West End run earlier in the year, the star of BBC2’s Mock

Ava Vidal

Dorset girl Jazz Morley possesses a voice with such natural soulfulness beyond her

23 years.

Nov 22 Neil Maya and Fraser Weekes

Neil Maya on saxes and Fraser Weekes on guitar are two accomplished jazz musicians working throughout the South West who have been playing together now for over five years.

• Continued on next page

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what’s on?

theatres & shows

Following his two critically acclaimed solo shows at the Royal Albert Hall in London last year, Gary Barlow has announced a full UK and Ireland tour which includes a visit to Plymouth Pavilions on November 14.

Nov 23 Hamer & Isaacs

Five-piece gypsy jazz band including vocals, violin, two guitars and double bass.

Nov 27 Ray Bonneville

Hard driving, blues influenced, song and groove man who plays more than 150 shows a year across the US, Canada and Europe.

Nov 29 and Dec 20 Thomas Ford

Electrifying blues talent in the form of this harp-playing, hard blues singing solo performer.

Nov 30 Mama Tokus

Mama Tokus hosts a night of soul and blues.

Plymouth Pavilions Millbay Road, Plymouth Box Office: 0845 146 1460.

Nov 4 David Essex

Legendary singer, actor and composer David Essex is back on the road in an eagerly awaited concert tour; The Rock Tour.

Nov 7 Jason Byrne

The biggest selling comedian at the Edinburgh Comedy Festival, Jason Byrne’s inspired, original brand of highenergy intelligent lunacy ensures that there is no other comedian like him.

Nov 9 Festival of Remembrance

Remembrance 2012 is back with a supporting cast of HM Royal Marines Band and the Military Wives Choir.

Nov 14 Gary Barlow

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the plymouth magazine

Singer, songwriter, producer, all round TV personality...man of the moment Gary Barlow brings his brand new solo tour to Plymouth. See panel on this page.

Nov 24 Jimmy Carr - Gagging Order

Gagging Order promises to be an hilarious night out! The show will be packed with one-liners, stories and jokes. Some clever, some rude and a few totally unacceptable.

Nov 27 Ross Noble

The new kings of indie rock make their debut in Plymouth.

Famed for his fiery and fluid freewheeling style, Ross Noble creates comedy gold from tiny particles of random nonsense. This is your chance to see one of the world’s most critically acclaimed stand ups in a hysterical night with the Mindblender!

Nov 20 Squeeze

Nov 30 Steps

Nov 15 The Vaccines

Following their incredibly popular 2010 ‘Spot The Difference’ tour, British legends Squeeze return with an extensive tour of the UK.

Steps, who sung their way to success in the 90s along with their dance routines and catchy lyrics, are reuniting for a six date mini UK tour in 2012.

Festive Christmas lunch £16.00 £14.00 Two Course £11.00 Main Course Available from Saturday 1st December 2012 till Sunday 23rd December 2012 (Mondays closed) A £5.00 deposit per person is required to confirm booking.

Leek and potato soup served with Cheddar croutons Smoked salmon slices on salad leaves with spiced prawn dressing and fresh lemon Served with freshly baked roll and butter ~:~

Butter roasted Turkey breast

seasoned with herbs and black pepper, served with festive

Yorkshire pudding filled with bacon wrapped chipolata, sage and onion stuffing ball and roast jus

Spiced Pork chop on sweet potato,

garnished with roasted conference pear and roast jus

Cheddar and vegetable “toad in the hole” bake with roast pepper sauce (v)

Served with roast potatoes, buttered carrots and Brussels sprouts ~:~ Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Vanilla Panna cotta served with soft berry compote Crisp pavlova meringue with chocolate ganache cream Fresh fruit salad in vanilla and passion fruit syrup served with quenelle of Devon clotted cream

Fresh filter coffee/tea available (£2.00) extra

gary barlow

to play pavilions in november Dec 4 Madness

The legendary Madness will embark on their biggest UK arena tour to date this autumn, taking in thirteen cities including Plymouth.

Dec 8 Royal Marine Band Christmas Spectacular

During this annual event, the Royal Marines Band – which is based at HMS Raleigh in Torpoint – will perform Christmas music, military marches, big band hits and popular showstoppers – to name but a few. In addition, their world-renowned Corps of Drums will demonstrate the precision, accuracy and musical skills for which they are famous across the globe.

Dec 14 Jools Holland

Piano master Jools Holland is set to

take his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra on the road once again. Folk-pop sensation KT Tunstall will be making a guest appearance in Plymouth. Also featuring the astounding vocals of Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and acclaimed trombonist Rico Rodriguez.

Dec 15 One Night of Queen with Gary Mullen and The Works

Ever since Gary Mullen won ITV’s Stars In Their Eyes back in 2000, he’s toured the world with his band The Works, paying tribute to rock legends Queen. They’ve performed throughout the UK, USA, Europe, South Africa and New Zealand, as well as twice rocked the BBC Proms in the Park in front of 40,000 people! One Night of Queen is an unmissable live concert for fans of Queen, classic rock, live music or just a great night out! the plymouth magazine

27

what’s on?

theatres & shows Dec 20 The Overtones

The Overtones have dazzled audiences on their current tour with their flawless performances, winning charm and impeccable style. The five singers, who have learned their craft through the years of performing together, stage a pitch perfect show that is arguably one of the most entertaining and enjoyable concerts around.

Dec 26 to Jan 5 Cinderella on Ice

An evening of awe and wonder awaits as Theatre on Ice producers, Wild Rose, present the internationally acclaimed Russian Ice Stars in a truly magical production of the well loved fairytale, Cinderella. The Russian Ice Stars deliver a dazzling interpretation of this enchanting story loved by all ages, a treat for the whole family. The high-speed combination of extraordinary skating, beautifully staged and breath-taking aerial feats will leave you mesmerised!

Following her world exclusive live performance of her new single ‘Trouble’ on The X Factor, Leona Lewis announced she is set to tour the UK in 2013 for the first time in three years, and will make her debut at Plymouth Pavilions on Saturday May 18.

Since her a meteoric rise to global fame, Leona’s incredible voice has captivated millions of people across the world. She’s broken countless sales records and smashed chart records universally.

Her 2010 Labyrinth Tour won her critical acclaim as well as reinforcing her position as one of the most successful British female artists to date.

This month sees Leona follow up her first two number one albums, ‘Spirit’ and ‘Echo’, with her third studio album ‘Glassheart’. Preceded by the brand new single, the gothic pop masterpiece ‘Trouble’, Glassheart is an album by an artist really coming of age.

This collection of songs simultaneously showcases the sheer power and intimacy of Leona’s incredible voice.

For an artist who has enjoyed unparalleled success, broken world records and sold over 20 million singles and albums, ‘Glassheart’ is Leona Lewis at her best.

Speaking about going on tour Leona said: “I can’t wait to get out there and play my new songs. I had such fun on my last tour and I’m really excited about doing it again next year.”

For tickets call the Box Office on 0845 146 1460 or visit www.plymouthpavilions.com

nolans farewell tour includes plymouth date In the history of girl bands, one stands out to prove that classic tracks and a feel good time will never tire.

The Nolans, the ultimate girl group, known for their breathtaking harmonies and extraordinary combination of warmth and anthemic party hits, today announce that their 2013 UK tour will be their last together.

After reuniting for their sold out 30th Anniversary Tour in 2009 (which spawned a best selling album, DVD and autobiography), Coleen, Bernie, Linda and Maureen will take to the road for a 19 date UK tour dubbed ‘In The Mood For Dancing…One Last Time’ and head to Plymouth Pavilions on Monday February 25 2013.

For tickets or further information call the Box Office on 0845 146 1460 or visit www.plymouthpavilions.com

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the plymouth magazine

super star leona announces gig date in plymouth

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what’s on?

Plymouth Symphony Orchestra

Sibelius Rachmaninov

Finlandia Symphony no.2

Proudly sponsored by

theatres & shows Nov 2 Cullin Sound

Piano Concerto Schumann

Soloist - Mark Cracknell

The Guildhall, Plymouth November 28th at 7.30pm

Ticket Prices: £16.50, £15 (concessions £13) & Children/Students £5 Ticket sales: Vibes Music – Mayflower Street, Plymouth wegottickets.com on the door

Sherwell Centre, Plymouth University Traditional Scottish melodies in new evocative settings. Box Office 01752 58 50 50.

Nov 4 Plymouth Jazz Club

Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill Louise Parker with the Craig Milverton Trio. Call 01752 721179 or visit www. plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk Nov 10 Ten Tors Orchestra

St. Andrew’s Church, Plymouth Conducted by Simon Ible with prize winning pianist Florian Mitrea. Box office 01752 58 50 50.

Nov 13 Illustrated Talk

Emmanuel Church, Mannamead Organist Dr Peter Marr presents an illustrated talk entitled ‘John Alcock the 18th-century Plymouth organist and a big time fall out.’ Arranged by Plymouth and District Organists’ Association.

Entrance free.

Nov 15 Fournier Piano Trio

Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery Tickets available at the museum shop or on the door. (See story on page 35).

Nimbus Alliance label. Featuring violinists Leos Cepicky and Jan Schulmeister with Jiri Zigmund, viola and Ales Kasprik, cello. Tickets from 01752 585050 or visit the website at www.peninsula-arts.co.uk Nov 17 Plymouth Area Police Choir

Methodist Central Hall, Plymouth Tickets available on the door.

Nov 18 Plymouth Jazz Club

Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill Dave Martin’s Jabbo Five For details or tickets call 01752 721179 or visit www.plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk Nov 24 West Devon Chorale

Church of St. Mary and St. Boniface, Plymouth. For tickets call 01752 776479.

Nov 28 The Big Squeeze

Sherwell Centre, Plymouth University Strictly Come Dancing band accordionist, Karen Street, is holding a national series of concerts to boost funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK. Free event.

Nov 28 Plymouth Symphony Orchestra

Plymouth Guildhall Conducted by Anne Kimber. Featuring Schuman’s Piano Concerto performed by award-winning soloist Mark Cracknell. Concert also includes Finlandia by Sibelius and Rachmaninov’s Symphony No.2. For information call 01752 603563 or visit www.plymouthsymphony.co.uk Dec 1 Christmas Music Box

Saltash Guildhall Clive Jenkins - piano and Mark Boocock - baritone present opular and classical Christmas music with audience participation. Tickets £7 from Saltash Guildhall or phone Sylvia Bedbrook 01752 8445149.

Dec 2 Plymouth Philharmonic Choir Wihan String Quartet

Nov 17 Wihan String Quartet

Sherwell Centre, Plymouth University In 2008 the acclaimed Wihan Quartet completed the first ever cycle of Beethoven Quartets in Prague. This landmark series of Beethoven concerts was recorded and is available on

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The Guildhall, Royal Parade Featuring soloists: Catherine Hamilton soprano and Alison Kettlewell - mezzosoprano. See panel on facing page.

Dec 2 Plymouth Jazz Club

Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill Karen Sharp with the Craig Milverton trio. Call 01752 721179 or visit www. plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk • Continued on page 34

Plymouth Philharmonic Choir’s new season opens with a performance of Elgar’s The Music Makers, along with Poulenc’s Gloria & Parry’s Blest Pair of Siren.

Conductor Christopher Fletcher has assembled an orchestra of professional musicians, together with soloists of national standing - Alison Kettlewell and Catherine Hamilton.

The concert is being held on December 2 in Plymouth Guildhall.

For Elgar’s The Music Makers, the composer chose words that are highly pertinent to the Plymouth locality, surrounded as it is by the sea and moor.

He took as his libretto a poem by Arthur O’Shaunessey, identifying himself with the first lines of the poem: We are the music makers, And we are the dreamers of dreams, Wandering by lone sea-breakers, And sitting by desolate streams...

Initially hugely popular with audiences, these days it is not a piece that is often performed, so this performance by the Philharmonic is to be welcomed.

Mezzo-soprano Alison Kettlewell says this of singing the Elgar: “I feel particularly moved when I sing this work as it’s so autobiographical. Elgar quotes himself so many times: if you listen carefully, you can hear Dream of Gerontius, Sea Pictures, and the violin and cello concertos and the Enigma variations.

“It is certainly an evocative and deeply personal setting of the words expressing Elgar’s own struggles in his musical life: something which I think all musicians can relate to.”

The concert also features Poulenc’s Gloria and for soprano soloist Catherine Hamilton, the piece brings back very

top soloists alison and catherine star in plymouth philharmonic choir’s opening concert

Catherine Hamilton

personal memories, as she explains: “As a very young singer, singing with an orchestra was a scary but wonderful experience and I still get such a great thrill from it, especially with a score that contains so much tonal, instrumental and emotional variety.

“I also remember singing it on another occasion in France when I was pregnant and each time the brass section started their fanfare my stomach went crazy!”

Ticket information can be found on the choir’s website www.plymouthphilchoir.org, or call the booking office on 01364 72429, or visit their Facebook page.

Alison Kettlewell

the plymouth magazine

31

plymouth to h war uk tour

✶ Wanted ✶

We are looking for children to join us in our magical woodland scene and take part in our

The National Theatre’s award-winning production of War Horse begins a ten month, nine-venue tour of the UK and Ireland opening at the Theatre Royal Plymouth in September 2013.

Seen by over 2.4 million people worldwide since its premiere at the National Theatre in 2007, War Horse will visit Plymouth, Birmingham, Salford, Edinburgh, Southampton, Dublin, Sunderland, Bradford and the Cardiff.

It opens at the Theatre Royal on September 27 next year and continues until October 12.

National Theatre producer Chris Harper said: “We are delighted that our production of War Horse will soon be touring the UK and visiting Dublin and we are particularly thrilled that the tour opens at in Devon, where the play is set. As well as London, New York, a US tour and Australia, War Horse finally comes home.”

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Caught in enemy crossfire, Joey ends up serving on both sides during the war before landing in no man’s land, while Albert, not old enough to enlist, embarks on a treacherous mission to find his horse and bring him home.

A remarkable tale of courage, loyalty and friendship, War Horse features ground-breaking puppetry work by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, bringing breathing, galloping, full-scale horses to life on the stage — their flanks, hides and sinews built of steel, leather and aircraft cables.

War Horse is based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo, adapted by Nick

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32

the plymouth magazine

louise sumner winter wonderland ad.indd 1

18/10/2012 12:14

host horse launch what’s on?

NATIONAL THEATRE’S ACCLAIMED PRODUCTION COMES TO THEATRE ROYAL IN SEPTEMBER NEXT YEAR Stafford and presented in association with Handspring Puppet Company.

Christmas Fayre at Mount Edgcumbe

Back for the ninth year, and better than ever!

Now in its fourth year in London’s West End, War Horse consistently attracts sell-out houses at the New London Theatre.

The Broadway production, which continues its run at the Lincoln Center until January 2013, was the winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Play and a Special Tony Award for Handspring Puppet Company.

The Canadian production opened to critical acclaim in Toronto in February 2012, while a North American tour began in Los Angeles in June 2012 and will visit 27 cities in its first year, with future productions planned for Australia and Berlin.

A feature film of War Horse, based on his 1982 novel and directed by Stephen Spielberg, was nominated for six Academy Awards in 2011.

To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01752 267222 or visit www.theatreroyal.com

Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th December 2012 Inspirational cooking demonstrations from leading West Country chefs Local produce for your culinary delight Beautiful floral displays by Duchy College students Choose from a wide variety of local gifts and crafts Plus a programme full of entertainment, even a visit from Santa!

Entrance: £3 adults and £1 children Supported by Castle Kitchens, Lawsons and Hatch Marquees

Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park Cremyll Torpoint Cornwall PL10 1HZ Tel 01752 822 236 mt.edgcumbe@plymouth.gov.uk the plymouth magazine

33

what’s on?

theatres & shows Dec 6 Christmas Music Box

Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery Clive Jenkins - piano and Mark Boocock - baritone present opular and classical Christmas music with audience participation. Tickets £6.50 from Museum Shop (Tues - Sat) and at the door, from Jeanie Moore, 01752 770345 or from www.wegottickets.com Dec 6 Plymouth University Orchestra

Davy Main Hall, Plymouth University Conductor Rupert Bond with Sibelius: Sections from Symphony no. 2 and Schubert: Overture in C ‘In the Italian Style.’ Plus works for string, brass and wind ensembles. Free admission.

Dec 8 Christmas Concert

St Andrew’s Church, Plymouth Presented by University of Plymouth

Choral Society. Musical director Simon Ible, with Ruth Jenkins - soprano, Martha Jones - mezzo-soprano, Rupert Charlesworth - tenor and Adrian Powter - baritone. Plus traditional carols for audience participation. Tickets £12 (£5 students and children) from Peninsula Arts, Plymouth University. For further information call 01752 585050 or visit www.peninsula-arts.co.uk Dec 8 Saltash Ladies Choir

Burraton Methodist Church, Saltash Dec 8 Christmas Concert

Holy Cross Church, Newton Ferrers Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir, directed

by Jenny George, accompanist Anne Kalas.

Dec 8 Carol Concerts

Cotehele House The South West Chamber Choir, conductor Stephen Trahair. Two carol concerts under the famous garland in Cotehele’s main hall. For more information please visit www.swcchoir. org.uk or tel 01752 847546.

Dec 9 Tamar Valley Choir

Tesco, Lee Mill Christmas music to entertain the Sunday shoppers.

Dec 11 Plymouth Clarion Choir

Ford Park Chapel Carol concert for the Friends of Ford Park Cemetery, with audience participation. Contact Ruth Self 01752 787128.

Dec 11 Carols by Candlelight

St Matthias Church, North Hill University of Plymouth Choral Society Simon Ible, director of music. Free Dec 14 Christmas Concert

Church of The Ascension, Crownhill, Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir, directed

by Jenny George, accompanist Anne Kalas.

Dec 14 Christmas Concert

Methodist Central Hall, Plymouth Plymouth Area Police Choir Christmas Concert.

Dec 15 Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir

Harewood House, Plympton Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir, directed

by Jenny George, accompanist Anne Kalas. Annual Sell-out Christmas Concert. Advance booking essential.

Tel Jenny George on 880730 or reserve tickets through the Choir’s website www. sirjoshuareynoldschoir.co.uk Dec 15 Christmas Carols

Ashtorre Rock, Saltash Saltash Ladies Choir present an evening of Christmas Carols Dec 15 Christmas Music

Trinity United Reformed Church, Torr Lane, Plymouth Tamar Concert Choir Details at www. tamarchoir.com Dec 15 Candlelight Christmas Service

St Andrew’s Church, Plymouth Royal British Legion Candlelight Christmas Service featuring Plymouth Area Police Choir.

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the plymouth magazine

03/04/2012 12:38

talented young musicians star in plymouth concert The remarkable and distinguished Fournier Piano Trio are performing in the 20th International Concert Series at the Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery, Plymouth on November 15 at 1 pm.

Taiwanese-British pianist Chiao-Ying Chang, Korean violinist Sulki Yu and Australian cellist Pei-Jee Ng formed the Fournier Piano Trio in 2009.

Since their formation they have rapidly emerged as one of the leading young piano trios.

The audience will be treated to the very best chamber music, performed by this brilliant piano trio.

They will be playing the following programme: Arensky’s Piano Trio no. 1 op.

32 and Ravel’s Piano Trio.

Tickets are £8.50 and available from the Plymouth City Museum Shop, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AJ Tel: 01752 304774. Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 4 pm They are also available for immediate download from the online box office www.wegottickets.com/event/155224

Dec 16 Christmas Music

Buckland Abbey Great Hall Tamar Concert Choir present a programme of Christmas music Further details www.tamarchoir.com Dec 16 Plymouth Jazz Club

Royal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Crownhill

Christmas Special with the Pennyroyal Jazz Band. Contact 01752 774343

PLEASE CHECK We do our best to carry accurate information but please check with organisers to avoid disappointment.

More details available at www.plyclassical.co.uk

the plymouth magazine

35

what’s on?

major events

Nov 18 Dec 2 Dec 9 Dec 16 Dec 28

Raiders v Milton Keynes Raiders v Worcester Wolves Raiders v Newcastle Eagles Raiders v Leicester Riders Raiders v Worcester

Until February Plymouth Winter Ice Rink

League 2 Football

Nov 6 Nov 10 Nov 24 Dec 5 Dec 8 Dec 26 Dec 29

Argyle v Burton Albion Argyle v Gillingham Argyle v Chesterfield Argyle v Oxford (JPT) Argyle v York Argyle v Torquay Argyle v Wycombe

Championship Rugby

Nov 9 Nov 24 Dec 14 Dec 26

Albion v London Scottish Albion v Bristol Albion v Aberavon (Cup) Albion v Cornish Pirates

British Basketball League

Nov 17 Raiders v Glasgow

Piazza, City Centre The open air ice rink on the Piazza returns, and will be transforming into a Christmas Winter Wonderland to coincide with the Christmas Lights Switch On event on November 22.

Nov 4 and Dec 2 Good Food Market

Royal William Yard The market showcases some of the best local food and drink in the South West.The market takes place between 10am and 3pm on The Green, Royal William Yard, Plymouth and will take place on the first Sunday of the month.

Nov 5 Bonfire Night

Plymouth Hoe Head to the Hoe for a spectacular evening of music, lighting and fireworks display. Smeaton’s Tower, the Citadel

and the War Memorial will again be ‘colourwashed’ with coloured floodlighting to complement the glow of the bonfire.

Nov 22 Christmas Lights Switch On

City Centre Get in the festive spirit. Guaranteed to be a fun filled family evening launching the start of an exciting festive season for shoppers and visitors in Plymouth City Centre.

Nov 22 to Dec 24 Christmas Market

City Centre Plymouth Christmas Market will turn Armada Way and Cornwall Street into a bustling festive haven, with traditional European-style market stalls offering a whole range of delightful gifts.

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the plymouth magazine

Nov 25 Reindeer Rally

Central Park, Plymouth This sponsored festive fun run is a great event to enter as a team with friends and family to remember a loved one or simply to set yourself a challenge.

Dec 6 Christmas Lantern Parade

City Centre One of the highlights of the city’s Winter Festival, the Twinkling Twilight Lantern Parade will see around 300 children from local schools in Plymouth working with local theatre company Stiltskin to create hundreds of fantastically creative

paper lanterns, which will light up the city centre as the parade passes by.

Dec 12 Barbican Late Night Shopping

Barbican Shops, cafes and galleries on the historic quayside streets of the Barbican will welcome shoppers on by staying open until 8pm for late night Christmas shopping. With a whole host of independent retailers, the Barbican is the perfect place to find a truly unique gift, and there will also be mulled wine and seasonal treats on offer while you browse.

Dec 15 Plymouth Albion Christmas Party

Brickfields Stadium, Plymouth Dance the night away to the fantastic sounds from local band Risky Business & resident DJ till 1am.

Contact Plymouth Albion on 01752 565604 for details.

Dec 26 to Jan 5 Cinderella on Ice

Plymouth Pavilions An evening of awe and wonder awaits as Theatre on Ice producers, Wild Rose, present the internationally acclaimed Russian Ice Stars in a truly magical production of the well loved fairytale, Cinderella. The high-speed combination of extraordinary skating, beautifully staged and breath-taking aerial feats will leave you mesmerised!

the plymouth magazine

37

what’s on?

Special Offer: Portrait sitting & 10”x 8” Mounted Photo only £30. Vouchers Available

family stuff Events at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Drake Circus

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Wild About Plymouth

Nov 24: Sea Birds and Bugs 11am to 2pm at Dawlish Warren, Dawlish, Devon Join the ‘Wild About Plymouth’ team for a day in Devon and discover the birds and bugs living along the coast. The team will be joined by experts from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter. Come along and hunt in the sand dunes for some coastal beetles and spiders, or sit and watch the birds.

Please make sure you wear warm clothes and bring a picnic! It is approximately a 20 minute walk from the train station where we will meet.

Admission free - advance booking essential . To book call 01752 304774.

Dec 19: Dino-Snores 6pm to 9pm Join the team for a dinosaur-themed pyjama party! Bring in a pillow or cushion and a blanket and remember to wear your favourite nightclothes.

Enjoy some games and craft activities, see fossils from the natural history collections and then listen to some dinosaur stories before heading home for bed. On-street parking is available on Tavistock Place and Regent Street to the rear of the Museum. Public car parks can be found on Regent Street and in the Drake Circus shopping Mall.

Admission free - advance booking essential.

Jan 25 The Night Sky 6.30pm to 9pm at Roborough Downs, Dartmoor, Devon £3 per adult. £2 per child. Under 5s go free - advance booking essential.

To infinity and beyond! Come and see the splendour of the night sky, hunt out the planets, spot the constellations and learn about the universe. You can also examine some real meteorites from the collections of Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery. Wear warm clothes and bring camping chairs, rugs or sleeping bags to sit or lie on. If you have a telescope or binoculars bring them along too. Telescopes, torches, hot drinks and snacks will be provided. The car park is the first turning on the left past the Dartmoor Diner. Meet at Yelverton Rock.

Advance booking by Jan 18 is essential.

Booking form at www.plymouth.gov.uk/ museumwildaboutplymouth.

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the plymouth magazine

Family Activities

Family fun sessions for the holidays.

Aimed at children aged 4 to 11, but wrigglers and siblings are welcome.

Admission is free and there is no need to book. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Drop in for as little or as long as you like. These sessions can get busy. All sessions are from 10.30am to 1pm unless stated.

Portraits in Landscapes Thurs November 1 -10.30am to 1pm (last entries at 12.30pm). Admission free no need to book. Take inspiration from the City Museum and Art Gallery’s ‘Women in Art’ and ‘In Pursuit of Art: Charles Eastlake’s Journey from Plymouth to the National Gallery’ exhibitions, and use oil pastels, pencils and collage to create your very own portrait in a landscape.

Inspired by Eastlake: A Musical Adventure Through Time November 3 from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery 1.15pm to 2.15pm at Smeaton’s Tower. Admission free - no need to book. Enjoy a mixture of modern and traditional folk music inspired by the ‘In Pursuit of Art: Charles Eastlake’s Journey from Plymouth to the National Gallery’ exhibition, with local band ‘Tobacco Road’. Instruments include the bodhran drum, guitar and bass guitar. Go to the Museum between 10.30am and 12.30pm and listen while you look around the exhibition. On the other hand, join them at Smeaton’s Tower between 1.15pm and 2.15pm for some sea shanties.

Eastlake’s Plymouth: A Family Adventure Through Time November 3 from 11am to 2.15pm Admission free - booking essential.

Walk back 200 years in time! Through the help of young Plymothian painter, Charles Eastlake, explore historical sites in the city, meeting various characters along the way including a

Night Sky is one of the special events organised by Wild About Plymouth team. The event is taking place at Yelverton on January 25

captured, yet still pompous Napoleon Bonaparte! The route will go from the City Museum and Art Gallery to Plymouth Hoe and will include free entry to Smeaton’s Tower and musical entertainment from scurvy sea dogs, ‘Tobacco Road’. Lots of fun to be had for everyone! Meet at the Museum just before 11am. Please wear comfortable footwear and suitable clothing for the weather and perhaps bring a picnic lunch (there is a shelter to eat in). This is a family-friendly event most suitable for children aged 7-11, all of whom must be accompanied by an adult. To book and for more information please call 01752 304774.

Pick Up a Penguin Dec 1 10am to 12 noon. Admission free - no need to book.Go in and make a penguin decoration to go on the Christmas tree in the Museum foyer.

Festive Robins and Angels Dec 8 10am to 12 noon. Admission free - no need to book. Make Christmas decorations to take home for your tree inspired by our collections.

Make and Take

Make something then take it home with our seasonal creative sessions aimed at children aged five to 11 (all of whom must be accompanied by a responsible adult). Sessions run from 11am to 12 noon and 1.30pm to 2.30pm. Admission is free. Advance booking is essential on 01752 304774.

Call on the day to see if any last-minute places are available - although there is no guarantee any will remain.

Viking Victorious Nov 17 The Norsemen are coming! Make your own paper Viking, shield and helmet in our fun sessions which last for up to 60 minutes.

Christmas Cheer Dec 15 Get into the Christmas spirit with some festive creative activities at the City Museum and Art Gallery. 11am to 12noon and 1.30pm to 2.30pm

Various dates Contemporary Craft Workshops

Develop your creative skills with these sessions, which are suitable for all abilities and run from 10.30am to 3.30pm. All materials are supplied unless otherwise stated, but please bring your own lunch and an apron if you have one. Booking and payment in advance essential. Call 01752 304774.

Nov 3: Alternative Eco Wrapping Originating from Japanese culture where it promotes caring for the environment and reducing waste; Furoshiki is the eco-friendly wrapping cloth. Combine simple textile printing and dyeing techniques to decorate the fabric and finish with sashiko hand stitching to create a unique furoshiko perfect for wrapping even the most awkwardly shaped present! £18 per person.

Saltram Plympton 01752 333503

Oct 27 to 31 Halloween Trail

Follow the spooky trail around the garden to earn a special Halloween treat. Creepy craft workshops for youngsters on the same dates.

Nov 24 and 25 Yuletide Craft and Food Fair

Local arts, crafts and delicious seasonal food for sale. Admission includes entry to the garden and Chapel Gallery.

Dec 8 Carols in the Courtyard

Join us in the historic stables Courtyard, for a good old-fashioned festive sing along.

Dec 15 and 16 Christmas at Saltram

Find out about Christmas through the ages at Saltram House. A free fun event for the whole family.

• continued overleaf the plymouth magazine

39

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Take a look at our website for further details or call Liz Crudgington to make an appointment to come and visit us.

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beary christmas!

The popular Cornwall Christmas Bear Fair takes place this year on Sunday November 18 at the Lostwithiel Community Centre and promises to be even better than last year.

This will be the third Cornwall Bear Fair jointly organised by Teddies of Trenode and Urchins Bear Shop of Boscastle and the seventeenth coordinated by Teddies of Trenode.

The Fair will once again feature over 45 stands with hundreds of teddy bears - old and antique, new artist and designer - handcrafted by top national, international and local bear artists, with many from Devon and Cornwall.

Dr Cassy of Tamar Valley Teddy Hospital will be providing restoration advice and, if necessary, ‘hospitalisation’ for any old or infirm bears! Tricia of Teddies of Trenode will have a large selection of ‘oldies’ to choose from, as well as giving valuations for any ‘veterans’ brought in.

Bear Basics and Mohair Bear Making Supplies will again be featuring extensive ranges of bear making kits, patterns, materials and accessories, as well as giving practical advice. Urchins Bears and Kingswear Bears will have superb stocks of renowned international trademark bears and friends.

In addition, the Fair will feature and endorse two charity stands – Cornwall Hospice Care and Animal Asia’s campaign to rescue bears from captivity and in distress all over Asia.

There will be competitions for the best Christmas stand and the best Christmas bear, for an own bear creation, of any size.

Both competitions will be open to all with voting by visitors to the Fair. The winners will each receive a bottle of champagne plus an engraved silver cup.

There will also be a free teddy prize draw.

The Fair will have a festive Christmas atmosphere and takes place between 10am and 4pm. Admission is £2.50 for adults, with accompanied children under 14 admitted free.

For further information contact Richard Butler on 01503 230851.

festive fair at millbridge Festive gift ideas and a vast range of stalls will be featured at this year’s Millbridge Christmas Fair.

The event takes place at Stoke Damerel Church and Parish Centre in Paradise Road, Stoke on Friday November 30 and Saturday December 1 between 11am and 4pm.

Stalls will include arts and crafts, gifts and jewellery, home furnishings and accessories, books, toys, cards and ethnic items. There will also be an array of unusual and interesting gift ideas for Christmas.

Visitors can enjoy live music, delicious food and refreshments throughout the day. Admission is free and there is parking in Paradise Road on both days in addition to parking at Devonport High School for Boys on Saturday only.

For more information contact Marilyn on 01752 564847.

40

the plymouth magazine

what’s on?

Cotehele

family stuff

Saltash 01579 351346

Oct 29 to Nov 2 Spooky Family Fun

Spooky fun this half term. with monster making on Monday, pumpkin carving on Tuesday and Friday, potion making on Wednesday and broom making on Thursday. Go and get spooked in Cotehele House.

Buckland Abbey Yelverton 01822 853607

Oct 27 to Nov 4 Walking Festival

Nov 9 to Nov 23 Making the Famous Garland

Join the team at Buckland Abbery during half term for guided walks, trails and expeditions planned to get you on your feet and outside!

Go and join the gardening team whilst they make this famous 60 foot garland running the length of the Hall in Cotehele House.

Oct 28 and Nov 3 Family Walk

The whole family can enjoy a walk through the woodlands learning about the wildlife and history of the estate.

Nov 17 and 18 Christmas Craft and Food Fair

Sample great produce from local suppliers and find inspiration for unusual gifts at this annual festive fair.

Dec 4 Carols in the Barn

Join the Salvation Army Band in the

Great Barn to enjoy some Christmas carols and the in the festive spirit.

Booking essential. Tickets ÂŁ2.50 Dec 7 to Dec 23 Christmas at the Abbey

Fun for all the family in a relaxed and festive atmosphere. The Abbey will be decorated with festive displays including a Victorian Christmas Kitchen and Father Christmas will be visiting every weekend.

Dec 15 Buckland by Candlelight

Explore the atmospheric Abbey after dark. Enjoy costumed characters, Christmas music and a glass of mulled wine.

Dec 16 Festive Family Felting

Make your own special Christmas decorations with a local artist.

Nov 10 to Dec 31 The Christmas Gallery

Masses of unique gifts of art for all pockets.

PLEASE CHECK We do our best to carry accurate information but please check with organisers to avoid disappointment.

National Trust events can be found at www.nationaltrust.org.uk

the plymouth magazine

41

what’s on?

exhbitions & other events Events at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Drake Circus

was born in Plymouth and went on to become President of the Royal Academy and the first Director of the National Gallery, London. This exhibition will investigate his artistic development and his activities as a central figure of the Victorian art world and is being produced in partnership with the National Gallery.Until Jan 12

Various dates Art Bite Tours

Fancy spending your lunchtime taking a bite-sized look at the Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery’s collections and changing exhibitions? Then why not join members of staff at 1pm on the dates below for a 30-minute tour?

Admission is free but places are limited.

Collect a ticket from the Museum’s Welcome Desk or contact the museum.

Nov 7: After Forbes; Nov 21: Eastlake and the Gallery Revolution; Dec 5: Eastlake, Plymouth and his Circle; Dec 12: Looking at Landscape Until Dec 15 In Pursuit of Art

Charles Eastlake (1793-1865), painter, scholar and arts administrator,

New Light on Newlyn

This exhibition will explore the art that has been created in and around the

Cornish fishing port of Newlyn, both past and present. See panel opposite.

Jan 12 to April 13 Ida Kar: Bohemian Photographer

In 1960 Ida Kar became the first photographer to have a retrospective exhibition at a major London art gallery.

Despite receiving public and critical acclaim from her contemporaries, she is surprisingly unknown today, yet she was instrumental in encouraging the acceptance of photography as a fine art and her subjects included some of the most celebrated figures from the literary and art worlds of 1950s and 1960s Europe and Russia. This exhibition will be drawn from the Ida Kar Archive, acquired by the National Portrait Gallery in 1999 and will include around 40 of her portraits. A number of the artists Kar photographed are represented in the Museum’s permanent collections and selected works by them will also be on display.

Unti l November 2013 Women in Art

See an impressive selection of works from the gallery’s permanent art collections that either portray or were

work of artists on show in city gallery created by women. From Renaissance times to the modern day, from muses and models to portraits and 20th century ceramics, this exhibition is dedicated to the memory of the museum’s late Keeper of Art Maureen Attrill, who sadly passed away in February 2011.

To stay up-to-date with Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery’s exhibition and event programmes visit www.plymouthmuseum.gov.uk or call 01752 304774.

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the plymouth magazine

Bathrooms & Kitchens

newlyn A new exhibition at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery is shedding New Light on Newlyn and exploring historic and contemporary art inspired by the Cornish fishing port.

Newlyn was the centre of a famous art colony from the 1880s and continues to inspire artists today with its scenery, coast and quality of light.

‘New Light on Newlyn’ includes works from the Museum’s permanent collections by famous artists such as Stanhope Forbes, Norman Garstin and John Noble Barlow. It also features a series of new contemporary work produced by selected members of the Newlyn Society of Artists (NSA).

“The exhibition is a bit of a departure for us,” said Emma Philip, Curator, Fine Art. “We are known for our Newlyn works but previous exhibitions have only really showcased the paintings produced by the art colony in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Newlyn Society of Artists member Bernard Evans painted this panoramic view of the Cornish fishing port

“For this show, selected members of the NSA went on a tour of our stores and have created new work in response to that of the historical painters in our collection. The end result is a really interesting mix of the old and new, and a totally fresh approach to a Newlyn-inspired exhibition here at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery.”

The works by the NSA members include paintings, installations, sculpture, works on paper, digital media and performance.

‘New Light on Newlyn’ is on display at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery until 12 January 2013.

Exhibition opening hours are 10am to 5.30pm Tuesday to Friday and 10am to 5pm Saturday. The exhibition is closed Sunday and Monday and also for Christmas and the New Year from Sunday December 23 2012. It will re-open after the festive break on January 2. Admission is free and there is no need to book.

The Museum will be offering a number of related events while the exhibition is on display. These will include Lunchtime Talks on January 3 and 8, plus ‘Art Bites’ talks-tours on November 7 and December 12.

Further special events are also in the pipeline including an ‘in conversation’ event with members of the NSA and Ken Turner’s performance, ‘Thought Behind the Brush and After’.

Full details of the programme are available from www.plymouthmuseum.gov.uk or 01752 304774.

the plymouth magazine

43

travel matters

award-winning silversea cruises offer all-inclusive luxury

By Editor Debbie Girdler More than 20 years ago I worked with P&O Cruises, serving on the Pacific Princess and later the famous flagship Canberra.

In those days I had to work for my supper, so it was a especially pleasing when plymouth magazine travel expert Anthony Goord invited me and my husband to join with a group of his guests for a VIP visit to the luxury Silversea Whisper when it spent a day in Plymouth recently.

Stepping onboard a cruise liner for the first time in more than two decades brought back many memories.

But how times have changed. All those years ago cruises were mainly for the wealthy. Nowadays there are literally hundreds of cruises to suit every budget and taste.

Award-winning Silversea are up there at the top end of the market, offering all-inclusive six star luxury on their fleet of Italian owned ships. But it is definitely a case of affordable luxury for those thinking of taking a cruise with Silversea.

Compared with some of the mega-cruise liners weighing over 200,000 tonnes, Silversea ships are small enough to be intimate, but large enough to offer a classy, two-storey show lounge, a dark and romantic connoisseurs cigar lounge, casino and card room, cocktail bar with complimentary drinks, three dining venues, an impressive spa and gym, beauty salon and some really fabulous suites, in addition to the first-class Silversea service and cuisine.

Silver Whisper is small by today’s standards, weighing 28,000 tonnes and accommodating just 380 passengers and 300 crew – an exceptionally high ratio guaranteeing the highest quality customer care and service.

There are 194 suites (not cabins) – nearly 160 of them with verandas – on the

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Debbie has a closer look at one of the luxury suites, which are a feature of all Silversea cruise liners

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seven passenger decks.

Private balconies are attached to threequarters of the plush Every suite on board Silversea staterooms, which Whisper has its own dedicat ed butler measure a roomy 287 square feet or more.

There are nine different styles of suite to choose from ranging from the luxurious Owner’s Suite to the Vista Suite.

All suites feature butler service, refrigerator and bar setup stocked with personal preferences, European bath amenities, down duvets, fine bed linens, premium mattresses, choice of pillow, spa robes and slippers, personalised stationery, binoculars, umbrella and daily news summary.

Each suite has a walk-in closet, minibar, DVD player, sitting area, lighted dressing table with hair dryer, writing desk, and wonderful marble-covered bathrooms stocked with Ferragamo or Bulgari toiletries (the stewardess comes around at the beginning of the cruise to ask your preference, though you can change your mind at any time).

on board Owner’s Suite The sumptous per Silversea Whis

The separate shower stall and long bathtub, along with double sinks, make these among the best available at sea.

Silver Whisper offers a convivial, cosmopolitan ambience and many special amenities usually found only on larger ships, including boutique shopping, a wellness spa with beauty salon, fitness centre and sauna; full-scale productions in a multi-tiered show lounge, an Internet café and WiFi service from stem to stern.

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Dining and fine food is available at a choice of locations and provide guests with the opportunity to choose their own dress code - from casual to formal. Our party dined in the ship’s main dining room and what a treat it was!

The restaurant serves contemporary, international cuisine with sophisticated

• continued on next page the plymouth magazine

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travel matters

all aboard for the ultimate in luxury cruises • continued from previous page elegance and impeccable service. Menus feature regional specialities unique to the voyage destination, for example, Roasted Chilean Sea Bass while cruising the Chilean fjords and Indian Chicken Korma en route to Mumbai. During days at sea, passengers can choose something from La Collection du Monde, a series of signature dishes created exclusively for Silversea by the Grand’s chefs Relais & Chateaux.

A special meal had been prepared for the day visitors and I have to say we were all hugely impressed with the quality of food and wine.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served here in high style, while a more casual buffet-style breakfast and lunch are served in the indoor-outdoor La Terrazza, which transforms into a traditional a la carte Italian restaurant in the evenings.

Le Champagne is the only by Relais & Chateaux wine restaurant at sea, where fine wines are complemented by a set tasting menu of regionally inspired dishes in an intimate, elegant setting.

At the Pool Bar, cocktails are served along with a poolside menu featuring healthy selections and light fare for lunch and dinner including grilled meats and fresh-from-the-oven pizza.

In the evening, the Pool Grill is transformed into The Grill – an intimate al fresco eatery featuring a fun, interactive Black Rock Grill experience.

Every seat in the multi-tiered Show Lounge enjoys a clear view of the stage. A wide range of entertainment is offered throughout the cruise – from full-scale production shows and classical soloists, to cultural entertainment and feature films. Throughout the voyage, the Show Lounge also presents port talks, enrichment lectures and a variety of special events.

Moored in Plymouth Sound in September it was still war m enough for passengers to sunbathe on the pool deck

Aboard Silver Whisper, 2013 begins with a 115-day world cruise visiting 28 countries with segment points in Papeete, Sydney, Hong Kong, Singapore, Mauritius and Cape Town.

This is followed by Northern Europe voyages that include three nights in St Petersburg, Norwegian fjord cruising, and new in-depth Baltic experiences.

September offers a popular 16-day Atlantic crossing from Southampton to Montreal with calls in Ireland, Scotland, Iceland, Greenland and Newfoundland.

Visiting Canada and New England for fall foliage season, Silver Whisper eventually seeks out some Caribbean warmth, retreating for a quick 14-day dry-dock, and returns just in time for the holidays and a 16-day Panama Canal cruise.

Silver Whisper will be in the Caribbean in November and Peter Goord Travel are offering their customers an all-inclusive seven-day Caribbean cruise, including free flights and $500 on-board spending credit, with fares starting at £1,999.

The cruise will take in a number of Caribbean favourites including St Lucia, Barbados, Dominica and the Grenadines.

Silversea’s other liners will be offering cruises of varying lengths to the Far East, Caribbean, South America, Africa and Indian Ocean, on board the Mediterranean and The impressive Show Lounge Australia and New Silversea Whisper Zealand during 2013.

All Silversea cruises include complimentary flights and transfers, up to $1,500 onboard spending credit with fares again starting from just £1,999 per person.

Adventure-seeking travellers with discerning tastes can choose Silversea Expeditions offering cruises that are just as exhilarating as they are luxurious. From voyages that cross the Polar Circle or visit penguin colonies at the bottom of the world‚ to Central America jungles and Patagonia landscapes.

There is so much on offer from Silversea and to give Plymouth people the chance to find out more, Peter Goord Travel are holding a special Silversea Cruise evening at their West Park offices on November 13 from 6pm. Why not join me, some past passengers and a representative from Silversea for a glass of wine and an informal chat. Call Peter Goord Travel at the number below to secure your place – you won’t be disappointed!

Peter Goord Travel Tel 01752 364186 www.petergoordtravel.co.uk 46

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the plymouth magazine

47

business matters

Louise Sumner pictured at the award ceremony with Mike Brydon of Colorworld Imaging and Steve Wall

louise is named as top wedding photographer in the UK A Plymouth woman has been named UK Wedding Photographer of the Year.

The coveted prize was won by Plymstock-based Louise Sumner, who also won a second national award in the category of Wedding Day and Celebration in the 2012 Master Photography Awards.

Louise beat off stiff competition to scoop her prize, with other leading professional photographers from across Britain all striving for recognition in the awards.

Louise said: “I am absolutely thrilled to have won the award. It is the most prestigious award of its kind among professional photographers. I was not at all confident because the standard of entries was so high, but was completely overwhelmed when my name was announced as the overall winner.”

Her winning image was of bride Jaina Wall pictured at Lewtrenchard Manor. “I am so pleased that this image was chosen by the judges,” said Louise. “The setting was superb and Jaina chose a very distinctive style for her wedding.”

Louise has photographer weddings all over the South West, across the rest of the UK, and even abroad. “I love destination weddings and would always be pleased to do more,” she said.

Louise gained an honours degree in photography at the age of 22, and worked in the photographic industry until starting a family in 1992. Eight years ago, with her three sons all at secondary school, Louise launched her photographic career again.

The quality of her wedding, portrait, commercial and fashion photography soon gained recognition. She has won awards in wedding and portrait photography from the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers as well as awards from the Master Photographers Association and the British Institute of Professional Photography.

She was the South West Master Photographer of the Year in 2009 and 2010 and has won three gold awards from the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers as well as several regional awards from the Master Photographers Association.

Her fashion work secured her the title of western fashion photographer of the year from the British Institute of Professional Photography in 2008 and 2009. Her portrait work has also secured several awards.

Her all-round ability also helped capture the title of MPA South West Photographer of the Year in 2008.

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The wedding photo which helped Louise win the top award

Louise’s latest achievement is even more special as it happened this year - 2012 is a diamond year for the Master Photographers Association (MPA) as they celebrate their 60th Anniversary.

Hundreds of professional photographers from around the world were joined by representatives from the major photographic companies at the glittering Awards ceremony held at the Hilton Hotel in Newcastle.

Alongside these awards Louise also gained the title of South West Winner of the Mario Acerboni Award which is an Italian album company which sponsors a special award assessed on three images from one wedding.

The Awards, organised by the Master Photographers Association, are one of the most prestigious within the photographic profession. Membership of the association is restricted to full time professional photographers who must qualify to the minimum required Licentiateship standard.

The organisation exists to promote and maintain standards of excellence and professionalism within the photographic industry.

MPA chief executive, Colin Buck, was delighted with this year’s entries and paid tribute to Louise’s success: “All submissions were judged on the same criteria artistic merit, good use of lighting, composition and print quality.

“The standard of the entries this year was possibly the best ever, with a record number being awarded merit prizes. Winning a Master Photography Award is a huge honour for any photographer and I’m delighted for Louise. They are a credit to the association and a credit to their profession.”

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For further information on Louise, please visit www.louisesumnerphotography.co.uk or call 01752 513915 the plymouth magazine

49

food matters

recipe of the month sponsored by riverford organic

squash and autumn vegetable quesadillas Serves 4 1 small to medium-sized butternut squash, peeled & diced 1 red pepper, diced 1 cob sweetcorn, kernels removed This delicious dish

by Jane Baxter, the 1 red onion, finely diced original chef from ¼ tsp ground coriander; ½ tsp ground cumin Everyday and ¼ tsp paprika Sunday Recipes 1-2 fresh chillies, deseeded & finely chopped from Riverford Farm 2 tbsp olive oil sea salt & ground black pepper 4 large flour tortillas; a little oil for brushing large handful coriander leaves 100g grated Green’s of Glastonbury cheddar 100g grated Green’s of Glastonbury double Gloucester Toss the squash, pepper, corn, onion, spices, chilli and olive oil in a large baking dish. Season. Roast in the oven at 190°C for 30-35 mins, until the squash is tender.

Brush each tortilla on one side with a little oil. Put one of the tortillas in a large non-stick frying pan, oil side down. Sprinkle some of the cheese over one half of the tortilla, then the veg mixture, then a few coriander leaves. Fold the other half of the tortilla over to make a half circle, gently pressing down with your hands to flatten.

Gently cook for a min or two, until the tortilla is crisp and golden brown (keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn). Carefully turn over using a large fish slice and cook on the other side. Keep warm in a low oven while you repeat with the others. Cut each one in half to serve. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and guacamole.

for more information and recipes visit www.riverford.co.uk

call ian + emma on 01752 790703 50

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american party’s plymouth matters visit to city strengthens ties Plymouth has played host to a group of civic and business leaders from Plymouth, Massachusetts.

A 22-strong group from America, which included elected officials and community leaders in the business, education and tourism industries, spent three days touring the city to build links and generate trade and tourism partnership working between the two cities.

The American city of Plymouth is an important part of the country’s history and is one of the oldest areas in the USA. Like England’s Plymouth, the maritime industry is central to the city’s past, with the fishing and shipping industries thriving throughout the 19th century. Today, tourism drives their economy.

Devon’s Plymouth Chamber of Commerce and Industry organised the visit in conjunction with its sister chamber, the US Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce.

developing a student exchange programme with fellow institutions in Massachusetts.

In addition to the business agenda, both cities looked to 2020, which will mark the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower voyage, a significant event for both cities and their residents. The Mayflower 2020 Steering Group discussed plans to commemorate jointly the legendary 1620 expedition of the pilgrims from Plymouth, Devon and their landing in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

Denis Hanks, executive director of the US city’s Chamber of Commerce, said: “Our trip to Plymouth in the UK has laid the foundations for a great overseas partnership and, with no time wasted, we are already working on establishing a programme which will enable our two historic cities to work together. We are particularly focused on building connections in tourism and education, as well as looking ahead to develop plans to celebrate Mayflower 2020.

The delegates were received at the Royal Western Yacht Club, with a warm welcome given by the leader of Plymouth City Council, Tudor Evans, and the Lord Mayor.

Tamar Science Park, University of Plymouth, UCP Marjon, City College Plymouth, the National Marine Aquarium and Plymouth Argyle were among the key institutions visited.

There were also meetings with various stakeholders such as Plymouth City Council, Destination Plymouth and the Culture Board to discuss economic development, city marketing, waterfront partnerships and educational links. City College Plymouth is now looking at

Visitors from Plymouth, USA pictured with civic and business leaders from Plymouth, UK

“For many in our delegation, this was their first visit to Plymouth in the UK and the three days provided a unique opportunity to really get to know the city and what it has to offer. We would like to thank our sister Chamber in Plymouth, Devon, for making this trip a great success.”

David Parlby, Plymouth Chamber chief executive, said: “This visit has really marked our city’s commitment to business and development on an international scale. It was an extremely busy itinerary for our American colleagues but both cities really made the most of the trip to strengthen and develop the economic opportunities that this transatlantic partnership has to offer.”

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51

rugby matters

international coup as albion are chosen to host england under 20s match against scotland

Plymouth Albion have pulled off a rugby coup by being chosen to stage England’s opening match in the Under 20s Six Nations tournament in 2013.

Champions England will begin the defence of their title against old rivals Scotland at Albion’s Brickfields stadium on February 1 next year.

Plymouth Albion’s acting chief executive Debbie Fisher said: “This is great news for Plymouth in particular and for the South West in general. We hope to attract a bumper crowd with spectators coming from all across the region.

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“To be successful in our bid to host one of next year’s U20’s internationals is fantastic news for Plymouth Albion and the local community. The game will be a huge boost for professional rugby in the region and will have the added attraction of several local players appearing for their country in their own county.”

Dr Graham Stirling, chairman of Albion agreed, and added: “We are delighted for all rugby followers in our region to have successfully bid for this prestigious England U20’s international game against Scotland.

“It makes it all the more interesting having Henry Slade, Luke Cowan-Dickie and Jack Arnott, our Exeter Chiefs dual registered players, in the England squad plus Jack Hill and Sam Nowell who are dual registered with the Cornish Pirates. It has all the makings of a fantastic evening at the start of the Six Nations Championship.”

The match will be shown live on Sky Sports and Sky Sports HD, kick off 5.45pm, and will be the first of three Under 20 matches to be hosted around the country.

Debbie said that Albion were hopeful of a crowd of more than 5,000 for the match, which will provide a much-needed revenue boost for the club.

Shareholders, members, supporters and sponsors earlier this year raised over £200,000 to rescue the club from the brink of administration.

Debbie was appointed as acting CEO in February to help Albion deal with its financial challenges. A shareholder in the club herself, she has more than 30 years experience in industry as an HR specialist, with considerable experience in helping to turn businesses around.

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She said: “With little more than a dozen matches at Brickfields each season it is essential that the club generates additional income from commercial activities to survive and prosper in the Championship. Brickfields has the potential to be a Premiership stadium, but that means the overheads in running such a large site are considerable.”

With a playing and coaching squad of around 35, a further 10 commercial and catering staff and a pool of 50 casual staff, generating non-rugby income is vital to the club’s future.

Debbie received approval from the Albion board earlier this year to strengthen the commercial team at the club with the key appointments of an events and catering manager, IT administrator – who oversees the club’s website and database – and a bar cellar supervisor.

Debbie Fisher, Plymouth Albion’s acting chief executive

“These posts are vital in ensuring that we maximise the commercial opportunities here at Brickfields and also make the most of our match day income.”

Brickfields boasts extensive conference and meeting facilities catering for everything from small group meetings to large-scale conferences. The Kier Marquee can accommodate 350 for a conference or 240 for a dinner dance.

The Rowes Honda Marquee and Acronyms Suite are similar in capacity while the Seddon Property Services Suite can handle conferences for up to 140 people. Also available are the Blue Room and Courage Bar which can cater for smaller groups.

With full catering facilities available on site, Brickfields is an ideal venue for conferences, wedding receptions, parties, proms and other special occasions.

“We have such an extensive range of facilities here at Brickfields, that we can meet the needs of most functions. We can tailor our services to match the client’s precise requirements and budget.”

Debbie said that the steps taken to generate increased revenue and improve profitability were proving successful. “The general economic situation is not helpful and like many sporting organisations we have to work hard to generate extra revenue.

We are a very lean team here, but everyone is passionate about Albion and want to see the club succeed.”

On the pitch Albion have enjoyed an excellent start to the Championship season having won all three of their home games. They currently stand fourth in the league.

Upcoming home games include London Scottish on Friday November 9 and a big South West derby against Bristol on Saturday November 24.

• Tickets for the Under 20’s international are now available via the club website.

Ticket prices for Ground entry to the England match on February 1 are competitive at £12 for adults with concessions for seniors, students and Under 18s at £9.

Children under 12 will have free entry to the ground. There is a separate pricing structure for the seated Grandstand with tickets at £20 and covered Redrow stand at £16 (concessions available) with full details on the club website, www. plymouthalbion.com Details of hospitality tables and sponsorship will be released in due course – anyone interested should contact louise@plymouthalbion.com • Plymouth Albion will be holding a Christmas Party on Saturday December 15 which will also help boost the club’s revenue. The party includes a bucks fizz on arrival, three course meal with coffee and mints and entertainment from local band Risky Business and the club’s resident DJ. Tickets cost just £29.95 per person. For information or tickets contact Albion on 01752 565064. the plymouth magazine

53

A trip to the dentist is something many people face with a mixture of fear and foreboding, writes Karen Pilkington.

However, at John Moore Dental practice in Plymouth they have established a reputation for putting their clients at ease, creating a friendly and serene atmosphere in their tastefully decorated premises at 51 Houndiscombe Road, Mutley.

Now they have advanced this principle one step further, taking a collaboration with three other businesses in their building to a whole new level, begging the question: “What’s happening at No 51?”

What is happening is the provision of first-class dental and beauty services, all under one roof, where patients and clients become friends, as they are introduced by personal recommendation to different techniques designed to bring out the best in them.

It is very reassuring for the customer to know that their pursuit of looking better can come with a solid background of medical safety, and to find a dentist, beautician, chiropractor and hair stylist who not only believe that absolutely, but put it into practice by using each other’s services.

The businesses are John Moore Dental, owned by John and Zoe Moore for both general and cosmetic dentistry; Hair @ 51, owned by Annette Ramsay for all your hairdressing needs; The Salon @ 51, owned by Kate Leadbeater, for beauty therapy; and Mutley Chiropractic Clinic, owned by Michelle Peters, for professional help for a wide range of medical problems.

For many people in both public and private sectors, collaboration is the new buzz word. True collaboration, though, requires a long term view based on strong relationships that are not just financially convenient.

Although the four businesses at No 51 are separately owned, they have built together relationally over many years (John discussed the idea of Annette relocating her salon whilst she was cutting his hair), and the welcoming friendly atmosphere is built on a solid foundation of trust.

The redesign of the building has been shared by all, and their creativity has gradually brought the space through degrees of change into a very modern, bright interior – light years away from the traditional dentist’s waiting room, or hotch potch of businesses in converted buildings.

Having all of these services under one roof has the fantastic benefit of being able to co-ordinate appointments. For any busy Dentistry person trying to schedule it all in, the luxury of being able to move seamlessly from one appointment to another without negotiating traffic, lateness and the general hussle of everyday life is a real winner.

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the plymouth magazine

All four businesses have almost a century of combined experience in their particular fields, so customers can relax Beauty knowing that they are in the hands of experts. They know what makes you feel great, both inside and out.

Reputations throughout the collaboration have been built on very genuine customer care. As a dentist committed to mercury free fillings, John Moore recognises the profound difference cosmetic dentistry can have on the individual. He has pioneered affordable ways of using modern techniques to improve a smile, whilst maintaining the best possible care. He believes safe ways of improving your teeth should be available to everyone without compromise.

Mutley Chiropractic Clinic, owned by Michelle Peters, has a special interest in the benefits of spinal manipulative therapy in pregnancy and with babies, backed up by Michelle’s own experience of having three children under five including juggling a new baby and running her business.

Michelle endorses the affordability of care at No 51, saying, “None of us see pound signs over our patients, but rather want to build long term relationships with people who will really see the benefit of using our services.”

business matters

one stop health and beauty at no 51 Both Annette Ramsay and Kate Leadbeater of Hair @ 51 and The Salon @ 51 respectively agree. Kate said they would never recommend a treatment just because a rep has been in trying to sell to them, adding that she has been using Crystal Clear Microdermabrasion and Anti Oxygen Facials because they work.

I couldn’t help but agree as I looked at the fresh faced youthful appearances of everyone at No 51. Despite their years of experience, they really are their own best advert.

Hair

Chiropractice

I recently spent a very agreeable couple of hours meeting and chatting to the business owners themselves. It was a management and business development day for them – a fantastic way to make sure that the day to day running of such an interesting collaboration is working smoothly, without compromising on the quality or quantity of time spent seeing patients.

I was told that appointments here are consistently longer than in comparable practices which all adds to the welcoming, relaxing atmosphere promoted.

All the team involved at No 51 have collectively brought together an evening event of hair, fashion and beauty all under the one roof to complement each other.

Why not share my good experience and go along to the Open Evening planned for December 4 between 5.30pm and 8.30pm, where Zoe Moore has arranged a unique fashion experience to complement their blend of professional quality at value for money.

It will also be a great opportunity to take a look behind the front door of No 51 and see for yourselves how this innovative concept of a local well-being centre can work for you.

The evening will include free spinal screening, hair consultations, beauty demonstrations and dental question and answer sessions.

For more details on the Open Evening, or just to book a complimentary initial visit to one or more of the businesses, please telephone reception on 01752 601110. You won’t be disappointed.

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55

how homeowners can make big savings on their gas bills Homeowners across Plymouth could save hundreds of pounds on their gas bills, according to one of the city’s leading heating engineers.

“A lot of homeowners have signed up to expensive service and maintenance agreements with major companies which can cost up to £40 a month. That expense is unnecessary with the Worcester guarantee and service agreement,” added Darren.

With energy costs set to rise for the foreseeable future, installing one of the latest energy-efficient gas boilers could save significant sums in the long term.

He said that any boiler over five years old should be checked for its efficiency and performance as part of a regular servicing programme. “Homeowners may be surprised to find just how inefficient some of the older boilers are compared with the new A-rated models available, which offer 90% efficiency standards.”

That’s the message from Darren Parker of Plymstock Plumbing and Heating, which celebrated its 10th anniversary last year.

Plymstock Plumbing and Heating is an accredited Worcester Boiler installer and Darren is keen to spread the energy saving message.

Darren said: “According to research by the Energy Saving Trust, replacing an old-style G-rated boiler with an A-rated Worcester Greenstar gas-fired condensing boiler could save householders around £300 a year.

“And the bigger the house, the bigger the savings,” added Darren.

With typical installation costs of between £1500 and £2000 for an A-rated Worcester boiler, the outlay can be recovered in little more than five years. And there is peace of mind thanks to the seven year product guarantee available from Worcester, via Plymstock Plumbing and Heating.

Darren said: “Worcester is part of the world-famous Bosch Group and has been manufacturing boilers in the UK for more than 50 years. The company has built up a proven reputation for quality and reliability, a fact that has resulted in every one of its Greenstar gas-fired condensing boilers receiving a Which? Best Buy award.”

Plymstock Plumbing and Heating offer an optional annual service for just £45, which is available for boilers of all makes, providing homeowners with peace of mind.

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Plymstock Plumbing and Heating, which is registered with Gas Safe and Oftec, offer the highest standard of plumbing and heating services, specialising in central heating systems. They provide regular servicing and maintenance of gas installations to domestic customers throughout Plymouth and beyond, operating a fixed price policy for homeowners.

The range of services offered includes central heating installation and replacement boilers, repairs and gas safety inspections. The company also operates a 24 hour emergency call out service and provides free quotations for customers throughout Devon and Cornwall.

Apart from its extensive and growing list of domestic customers, Plymstock Plumbing and Heating also provides contract and commercial gas work for major organisations.

The company was founded by Darren 11 years ago when he was just 20 years old. Born and raised in Plymstock, he completed a four year apprenticeship with a local heating company after leaving school. He then joined another heating and plumbing company, which unfortunately went into liquidation soon after.

“I knew I could do the work to a professional standard and decided I would set up

business matters Darren Parker of Plymstock Plumbing and Heating

my own company,” said Darren.

He applied to the Prince’s Trust who agreed to provide business training and funding which enabled Darren to purchase a van and all the equipment needed.

“The Prince’s Trust were brilliant and gave me just the start I needed,” he said. Two years later, the business had developed to such an extent that he was able to recruit his younger brother Steven, who subsequently completed a four year apprenticeship with Plymstock Plumbing and Heating.

Steven is a key part of the business now and has just recruited another apprentice. The family business is completed by Darren’s wife Anna, who looks after the accounts and administration.

“We’re a family business in every sense and like to think that we offer a very personal and reliable service for our customers.”

For more information contact Darren on 07974 893383 or visit the Plymstock Plumbing and Heating website at www.plymstockplumbingandheating.co.uk

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57

legal matters

don’t put all your eggs in a low-cost divorce basket With the difficult financial climate, it is tempting to look for a less expensive way to divorce and you may have come across advertisements offering online divorce services at prices ranging from as little as £39.

Going through a divorce means making decisions on how the property, savings and other assets will be sorted out, including what arrangements will be made for the children.

Sounds like a bargain, but before you proceed with this route, let’s investigate further to see what it entails.

With a local specialist family law solicitor, you can be certain that they know the local court practice and will complete the forms for you and file them in court for you. If there are any amendments required by the court, they can deal with this for you.

With an online service, you put your personal information onto a questionnaire and the service will use this information to prepare the forms and email them to you.

Before you even start your divorce, you will receive clear full advice on all aspects of your finances and children matters.

You will then have to file them with the court. Sounds simple enough but beware that you are representing yourself and are ultimately responsible for filing the correct paperwork.

With specialist solicitors offering mediation and collaborative law services, you can be helped with making decisions to achieve the best for you and your family.

What happens though if the forms are incorrect, or need amendments?

You may have to seek advice on this. Some online services can only offer legal information.

They cannot advise you on how the law applies to your situation because only lawyers can give legal advice.

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the plymouth magazine

Online services may not cover this aspect and it is important to be aware of this.

There is no question that seeing a solicitor will be more expensive than £39.

By Phil Thorneycroft Head of the Family Department at Wolferstans

But when you make a decision to save yourself money, make sure you go to a specialist family law solicitor who can offer a more cost effective and less stressful service. You can save money by using

mediation and collaborative law services – these are tested alternatives to the cost of going to court. Remember peace of mind has no price.

At Wolferstans, we pride ourselves on having a team of family law specialists, offering both in-house mediation services as well as collaborative law services.

We aim to offer you an honest appraisal of your circumstances on a value for money basis and with peace of mind.

Ring us now and speak to our client co-ordinator Sarah Webb on telephone number 01752 292239 or email swebb@wolferstans.com for further details of how we can help you. Alternatively visit the Wolferstans website on www.wolferstans.com.

Wolferstans Solicitors 60/66 North Hill, Plymouth Tel: (01752) 663295 www.wolferstans.com

Fort Austin Avenue, Crownhill, Plymouth PL6 5NU Telephone: 01752 771820

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59

berry good way to Well, we are at that time of year again where the nights are drawing in, the air feels damp and crisp and the temperature is steadily dropping, but it’s not all doom and gloom.

Our gardens are ablaze with colour thanks to ripening berries bursting with colour, complementing the rich autumn hues of falling leaves. Many remain on the branches well into winter, illuminating our gardens through the cold, dark, frosty days, providing us with colour when colour is in short supply and reminding us all that there is still plenty of life in the garden.

by

Fiona Newton and Derek Anderson of Plymouth Garden Centre

Berries can easily provide as much colour in the garden as summer flowers, but are often overlooked or seldom used. Berried shrubs provide us with a long season of interest and, more importantly, a much-needed supply of food for wildlife. We can enjoy their flowers in spring and summer, when bees and butterflies take full advantage of the nectar and pollen, while birds can feast on the bounty of berries that can become a lifeline for them in winter.

There are quite a number of shrubs, trees and plants that produce berries that are coming into colour now and make great garden plants.

Cotoneaster berries provide a splash of colour in winter

Looking good

several varieties with variegated leaves in gold, cream or white.

The most recognisable and well known berry-producing shrub has got to be Holly (Ilex Aquifolium). It is instantly recognised and often associated with Christmas with its berries and foliage being used to make garlands amd wreaths.

If left to grow naturally, it can create a nice small tree that will be the centrepiece in winter, but it can be clipped and kept in control at a reasonable height. Hollies are also excellent plants to use in a formal hedge or as standards and can even be trained into topiary specimens. They will grow in any soil type and will suit a position in sun or shade. They can grow to a height of approximately 4-8m (12-26’) with a spread of 4m (12’), but can be kept in shape by pruning.

It is a great garden plant because of its versatility and year-round presence in the garden. It has thick waxy evergreen leaves that have spines on the tips and can come in dark green which contrasts brilliantly with the red berries. There are also

Cotoneasters are fantastic shrubs and there is one for nearly every situation in the garden. There are varieties that are evergreen, semi-evergreen and deciduous and varieties that are prostrate and great for ground cover, while others can be grown as large shrubs, or even small trees perfectly suited to smaller gardens.

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A pretty little evergreen shrub is Pernettya (Gaultheria mucronata), which grows to Pernettya around 1.5m (5’) in height and spread and likes a sunny, to partial shaded spot, with slight acidic soil that doesn’t dry out completely.

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Some varieties of Cotoneasters can make useful hedging plants, while others can be fan trained against a wall for screen while others can be grown as a standard or even weeping standards. Cotoneasters can be grown in any soil in any aspect, and will even grow in dry shade. They are fully hardy, but do better if protected from cold east winds. If they need tidying up a little or are getting out of hand, they can be pruned back hard without any problems.

Cotoneasters can range in height from 20cm5m (8”-16’) in height and to 1m-4m (3-12’) in spread

SAL E

It flowers in spring and early summer, bearing small, white bell shaped flowers.

It needs a male and female plant grown together for pollination and to produce the berries that it is really grown for. The berries are highly attractive and glossy, coming in a range of colours from white, pink, red to deep claret. It makes a great little low maintenance hedge that can be kept neatly clipped or it is equally at home underplanted with large Rhododenrons or Camellias.

Gautheria procumbens only grows to approximately 10-30cm (4-12”) high, but has a spread of approximately 1.5m (5’). It makes an evergreen carpet which is great for suppressing weeds. It likes a moist, slightly acidic soil in partial shade to full shade, but can tolerate full sun. It flowers small, white bell shaped flowers in July and August, with red berries following in the autumn. It is ideally suited to pots, bed, borders and as ground cover, but looks great in rockeries planted beneath dwarf Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Acers with red Cylamen and Cineraria as companion plants.

For a climbing evergreen shrub, Firethorn (Pyracantha) is a great plant to use. It offers year round interest, with beautiful clusters of white flowers in June that are

60

the plymouth magazine

gardening matters

bring winter colour then followed by brightly coloured clusters of berries in red, orange and yellow in the autumn. The leaves provide evergreen interest in the winter, especially when grown through a hedge or up a wall. It provides a thorny shelter and nesting spot for birds offering protection from the weather and predators and is a great natural barrier for a property as the long thorns deter intruders.

It likes a sunny aspect, but will tolerate partial shade in free draining, fertile soil. It grows to approximatly 6m (20’) in height and 2-3m (610’) in spread, but can be pruned to keep in check.

The Rowan or Mountain Ash (Sorbus Rowan in bloom (above) aucuparia) has attractive creamy white blossom and covered in berries in early summer, usually in May or early June.

These are followed by brightly coloured berries that are usually orange or red, but there are some cultivated varieties that are white or pink.

The berries provide an excellent food source for birds in the autumn and are extremely decorative. The leaves in autumn change through shades of red, yellow and orange.

The Rowan prefers a sight that is in full sun or partial shade on well drained, slightly acidic soil, but it can tolerate neutral soils. It grows to a height of approximately 10-15m (35-50’) in height with an approximate spread of about 7m (24’).

It produces a light open canopy allowing for a wide range of plants to be grown at the base of it. It is also a great tree to use in a smaller space because it is light and airy and not overly imposing.

For dark berries, Viburnum Tinus is a great candidate. It starts to flower in early autumn and continues right throughout winter. The scented flowers are borne on clusters at the end of the stems. They are white or pale pink and are followed by bluish black berries in late winter which are carried on right into summer. There is a variagated variety available which is extremely attractive and adds a touch of light on a gloomy day.

It likes a moist compost and can be grown well in pot, provided it does not dry out. It will Viburnum Tinus thrive in shade or sun, but prefers a position in dappled shade. Vibrunum Tinus is very easy to look after and is tolerant of neglect. It is a good plant to use for an evergreen hedge with a height and spread of 2m (6’4).

Skimmia Reevsiana is a slow growing evergeen shrub that produces clusters of red bud in autumn which open up to reveal white scented flowers. After the flowers have faded, clusters of highly attractive red berries develop. It is easy to grow and is better suited to a shady spot. Perfectly suited to a pot or the garden it only reaches a height and spread of approximately 1m (3’). It is tolerant of most soil types and looks after itself once it is established.

Elaeagnus Ebbingei is a fantastic evergreen plant for hedging or covering up a wall.

It has highly attractive green foliage with a yellow edge to the leaf. It has sweetly Plymouth Garden Centre in Fort Austin Avenue, Crownhill is open from 9am to 5.30pm weekdays and 10.30am to 4.30pm Sundays Tel: 01752 771820. www.plymouthgardencentre. co.uk

scented, inconspicuous white flowers that appear along the branches in clusters from early winter onwards.

The flowers are followed by small reddish orange fruits in late winter to early spring. It can be grown in a wide range of positions from full sun to shade. It prefers a well drained soil that is slightly acidic but it is not essential. It grows to 3m (10’) in Elaeagnus Ebbingei height and 3m (10’) in spread. To use it as hedging prune it twice a year.

The weeping Crab Apple (Malus Red Sentinel) is a superb little weeping tree with pink/red buds that open into mostly white blossom and mature into little red fruit.

It is ideal for any small garden and looks truly spectacular at this time of year. The spring blossom is outstanding and rivals that of the ornamental cherries.

The small fruits look great and can last on the branches for months. There is also the added advantage of the beautiful autumn foliage colour. It prefers a sunny position and tolerates most soil types. Malus Red Sentinel can reach a height of about 3-4m (10-12’) with a spread of 2-3m (6-10’).

As well as all of these wonderful berry producing plants, we also have a fantastic selection of planted pots in store which will provide your front door or patio with a riot of colour throughout the autumn and winter. They will also make great gifts too.

Come on in and have a look for yourself.

Happy gardening from Fiona and Derek!

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