Plymouth Magazine Christmas Guide January 2020

PLYMOUTH’S BIGGEST MONTHLY CIRCULATION MAGAZINE - 47,000 COPIES

plymouth magazine the

ISSUE 187 JANUARY 2020

Top Cuban dance company is coming to the Theatre Royal

Launch of 1620 Pub & Eatery in the Barbican is a dream come true for Zena What’s On guide

KF Kitchens chosen to launch stunning new brand of kitchen furniture Travel Matters

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PLYMOUTH - EXETER - EXMOUTH

David Richardson

Mayflower 400 is up and running!

After years of planning and preparations the Mayflower 400 celebrations are officially under way.

The year-long programme of events was launched with the Illuminate lights show at Royal William Yard and other locations at the end of November.

Hundreds of events - large and small - are scheduled for 2020 to celebrate the sailing of The Mayflower with the Pilgrim Fathers in September 1620.

The highlight will be Mayflower Week in September which will feature a Four Nations Ceremony attended by representatives from the UK, USA, the Netherlands and the Wampanoag nations, 400 years to the day the Mayflower set sail. The week will also feature a spectacular gathering of military ships in Plymouth Sound for a Mayflower Muster.

With the spotlight on Plymouth throughout the year it is expected to attract an additional 500,000 visitors to Britain’s Ocean City and provide a major boost for the local economy.

It is one of the reasons that the influential Condé Nast Traveller magazine included Plymouth in its top holiday destinations in the world in 2020. I did say in my editorial in November that Plymouth was listed at number three in the top 10, which appears to have been a mistake on my part.

One of our readers, Fiona Smart pointed out that Plymouth was apparently Number 8 on the list, although I’ve been unable to verify that. Whatever the final position, the fact that Plymouth is among the top 10 highlights what a great city we live in.

Hope you enjoy the latest edition - and best wishes from everyone at Cornerstone Vision for a peaceful and prosperous 2020.

Curtains | Blinds | Shutters | Upholstery Soft Furnishings | Fabric | Tracks | Poles A friendly, personal service, offering free measuring, advice and solutions for window dressings and home interiors.

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Publishers: Chris Girdler and Ian Pilkington Editor: Debbie Girdler Design: Leah-Maarit Jeffery and Matthew Bowker Photography: Laura Joint Contributors: Laura Joint, Anthony Goord, Derek Anderson and Janet Stirling Advertising sales: Karen Pilkington, Dave Simpson, Jessica Bennett, Glenda Charitos, Michelle Blackhurst, Esther Cole and Chris Etherington Distribution: Chris Etherington Artwork: Sarah Simpson Finance: Karen Pilkington and Kim Strachan Front cover: The internationally renowned Cuban ballet company Acosta Danza .

Contacts: Editorial Tel: 01752 225623 e-mail: chris@cornerstonevision.com Advertising: Tel: 01752 225623 e-mail: karen@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 45,000 homes across Plymouth each month, with a further 2,000 copies strategically placed in leisure and retail outlets in Plymouth, Saltash and other locations.

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.cornerstonevision.com Follow us @CornerstoneVis

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

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Protect your Investment for the Future Launching into a financial commitment with someone, whether married or not, can often be a daunting prospect, especially if one of you has provided a larger financial deposit than the other.

Taking legal advice to secure your investment is often Melanie Cotterill overlooked because of the excitement of carrying out your plans, but this should be considered essential.

Whilst we all expect our relationships, whether personal or business, to last forever, it is a fact of life that we could be proved wrong in the future.

When buying a property with someone who may not be providing an equal amount as a deposit as you are, take the sensible step of protecting your initial investment by signing a Declaration of Trust.

This will ensure that if the relationship breaks down, your initial investment will be returned to you before the remainder of the equity is divided.

The terms of the Declaration of Trust can also clearly define what would happen if either party died and how you could buy each other out of the property if you wanted to sever the relationship. It can also include details of who will be responsible for the utility bills and general maintenance of the property and in what proportions. This will ensure there is clarity in the future and prevent expensive legal disputes.

Failure to take the step of making a Declaration of Trust could mean some, or all of your investment, will be lost.

A Declaration of Trust is also a useful option for parents who want to provide the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ gift to a child to get them on the property ladder. Should your child’s relationship with their partner break down in the future, it will protect the money you provided so that it remains within the family.

Why not find out more from Melanie Cotterill of Roper James on 01752 546448.

Teresa Cussen

For many couples, buying a house together will be the biggest commitment which they make. With more people choosing to live together rather than marry or have a civil partnership, it’s important to take the time to think about what you want to happen should the relationship break down.

Being clear from the outset exactly what the financial implications of buying a house or moving in together are will make sorting out any breakup much easier.

Sadly, if you live with a partner without marrying or a civil partnership you do not have the same rights in law as someone who was married to a share of the assets. By drawing up an agreement in advance, about how they are to be shared should your relationship break down, both of you can be reassured about your position.

So, if you are not making equal contributions towards the purchase or household expenses or one of you has provided greater amount for the deposit or contributed more towards the furnishings how is that to be reflected when your relationship ends?

If the property increases or decreases in value, how is that to be shared?

If some of the money has been provided by one set of parents how is that to be repaid?

If the furniture has been bought on HP, or with a loan or on a credit card how is that to be dealt with?

If you have moved into your partner’s property and will be paying towards bills or mortgage payments, will you acquire an interest or share in the property?

These are all points which can be included in a cohabitation or living together agreement. Take some time to think “what if ” and agree how you would like to deal with your assets.

The agreement can be tailored to your particular circumstances and provide you with peace of mind and security for the future.

If you would like to discuss how a living together agreement could help you then call Teresa Cussen at Roper James now on 01752 546448.

Roper James Solicitors 3 St Andrew Street Plymouth PL1 2AH

01752 546448 • enquiries@roperjames.co.uk www.roperjames.co.uk

CONTENTS JANUARY 2020 EDITION

ZENA’S DREAM!

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Business woman Zena Bateman has achieved her dream of creating an ultra-stylish pub and eatery in the Barbican.

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WHAT’S ON

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Our comprehensive What’s On section has details of all the big events in the city along with details of activities for all the family.

BEAUTIFUL BATHROOM

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Laura Joint meets John and Sue Cain from Hooe who talk about the fabulous bathroom supplied by Studio One South West

SUNSHINE KITCHEN

Guest writer Janet Stirling shares one of her favourite recipes prepared in her ‘Sunshine Kitchen.’ This month her choice is Fish in Papillote.

TRAVEL TALK

Travel expert Anthony Goord has invited specialists from three tour operators to meet with customers to discuss their holiday needs.

ENERGY MATTERS

Mark Guy from QERB Energy explains how households across Plymouth could secure grants for energysaving home improvements.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

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WOMEN AT WORK Plymouth has a brand-new pub - and for owner Zena Bateman, it’s a dream come true.

It took Plymouth-born Zena nine months to transform the former Notte Inn in Notte Street into the stylish 1620 Pub & Eatery. In that time, the entire building was completely gutted and redesigned as a traditional but ultra-stylish British pub, with the whole interior design project being executed by Zena herself.

The pub opened in November and it certainly has a wow factor, with fabulous interior design, quirky nooks and crannies, and a nod to iconic British brands and traditions a red telephone box door is an eye-catching feature in the main area of the pub, and there are vintage 1931 cinema seats around one of the tables.

Another feature is the gorgeous gold and concrete bar with crystal chandeliers adorning it, while the flower ‘vases’ on the tables are Tate & Lyle Golden Syrup tins!

Zena trained in catering and hospitality and completed her chef’s course before embarking on a career in the property sector. And, while she achieved success in that business, her heart was always elsewhere: “This has always been my passion, but it was on the back burner for a few years,” said Zena.

“But when I spotted that this property was on the market, I went for it. I’d had my eye on this place for a while. It had always been a good pub, but it had been closed for some time and required a substantial programme of works to give this iconic building the love and attention it so deserved.

“Once I’d taken the decision to buy it, I knew that we had to basically start from scratch and throw everything at it to create what we have now.

After we’d gutted it, pretty much the only things left standing were the four walls!”

The interior walls were shot-blasted to reveal the original stone walls, a real feature in the pub alongside the herringbone oak flooring. And the style doesn’t end there: “We’ve remodelled the ladies and men’s bathrooms too,” said Zena. “Facilities are incredibly important and need to be beautiful, well presented and stylish, so they too have the same feel as the rest of the pub.

The pub & eatery is on both the ground and first floors. The main bar downstairs has a vibrant atmosphere with music, while there is also a private dining room at the back which

Waitresses Paula (left) and Debbie

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

1620 Pub & Eatery - a traditional British pub with style!

Zena Bateman

can seat 10-12 people. The upstairs space is slightly more formal and can be hired for functions, dinner events and parties.

With her interior design, Zena has created a warm, welcoming pub & eatery, with an added twist or two: “I’d probably describe it as eclectic, a bit different,” she said.

“I wanted to create a traditional British pub with a community feel, it’s important everyone feels welcome. I wanted it to look great and have high end service. We’ve managed to achieve all those things. So, yes, it took nine months to do all the work, but taking on a project like this is a long-term plan, so you’ve got to go the whole hog. I wanted it to be just so.”

The pub has a team of chefs with decades of experience between them, and presently, a female bar and waitress team: “Our three chefs are incredibly experienced, so although we’ll be doing a relatively short menu with traditional British food, it’s going to be done very well, to a really nice quality, and offering ‘specials’ to tease our customers.”

The food menu will eventually include basket meals where the food is presented in galvanised steel baskets lined with gingham paper. Dishes include fish & chips; homemade burgers; deconstructed shepherd’s pie, made with roasted shoulder of lamb; honey & mustard ham, egg and chips with pineapple salsa; shin of beef, Guinness & mushroom pie; and a three-course roast on Sundays. Everything is made by the inhouse team.

There are also vegan, vegetarian and seafood dishes as well and beautiful fresh home-made soups. And there’s a reference to 1620, with some

WOMEN AT WORK

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of the dishes using the names of passengers on board The Mayflower.

The pub also serves coffee, tea and home-made cakes - check out the naughty-but-nice choices in the cake fridge!

“After some years in the doldrums, there has been a resurgence in nice British pubs providing good, home-cooked food with good wines and craft ales and beers,” said Zena. “But we are also a place where people can come for a cuppa and a cake with friends.”

1620 isn’t a cocktail bar but does have a Spritz menu including Blood Orange, Saint-Germain, and Chambord.

In January, healthy basket nibbles are being added to the menu and the Spritz menu will also include healthier choices with lower alcohol levels: “After the festive season, we thought it would be a nice idea to offer those options for people who are maybe looking to be a bit more health conscious in the New Year,” explained Zena.

1620 Pub & Eatery launched with opening hours of midday to 11pm, Wednesdays to Sundays, but this is being extended due to the demand. Visit the Facebook page for the very latest opening hours and menu information.

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1620 Pub & Eatery, 60 Notte Street, The Barbican, Plymouth PL1 2AG 01752 291620 www.facebook. com/1620pub/

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FOOD MATTERS

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Sunshine Kitchen I’m writing this on a day with heavy skies, continuous rain and the damp creeping into my bones. But Hey! That is why I call my kitchen the ‘Sunshine Kitchen.’

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Whatever is going on around me, particularly with weather that makes me feel heavy myself, I go into my kitchen and create something yummy.

It lifts my spirits and makes my husband smile. When I’m in the kitchen he thinks all is well. And so it is! Eating a delicious meal with the one you love warms your soul and is as good as sitting in the garden on a sunny day.

So what’s on the menu this month. Well, I’ve chosen Fish in Papillote (or ‘fish in paper’ in other words).

This is the best ever way to cook fish. It’s easy and keeps the fish smells to a minimum. You’re going to use this method again and again. I hardly ever cook fish any other way now. It keeps it moist and fragrant and boy oh boy, does it impress guests when this mysterious parcel arrives on their plate and is cut open to reveal all it’s pleasures.

You can use this method with any fish, filleted or whole.

It is best however, with flat fish or fillets. Most of the time I cook fillets of sea bass or lemon sole with dill, lemon slices, a splash of olive oil and white wine. Add some salt and pepper and you’re onto a winner.

Today I’m going to make it with Mediterranean flavours to bring that sunshine right onto my dining table. I bought two thick-ish fillets of hake, which is the favourite fish in Spain so these flavours will complement perfectly. I have also used Mediterranean flavours with sea bass and cod.

Fish in Papillote Ingredients The amounts here are to my taste, so feel free to change quantities. √ Fish fillet √ Cherry tomatoes, 2-3 or 1-2 thin slices if you only have large tomatoes. √ Kalamata olives, three pitted and halved √ Capers, 1 tablespoon √ Red Onion, very thin slices 2-3

FOOD MATTERS √ Capsicum Pepper, very thin slices 2 √ Garlic, ½ clove, grated or finely chopped (to taste) √ Olive Oil, 1-2 Tablespoons √ Dry White Wine, 2 Tablespoon √ Lemon slices, 3 thin ones √ Oregano or mixed Italian herbs, ½ teaspoon √ Salt and Pepper

Here’s what you do for one parcel: √ Make a parcel for each person with one piece of fish. √ Cut a piece of parchment or baking paper 16 to 18 inches long (40-45 cm), depending how long the fillet is. √ Fold the paper in half and cut it into a half circle. √ Open the paper circle flat on top of a baking tray. √ Rub Olive Oil on both sides of the fish. √ Now lay the fillet on the right side of the circle. √ Season the fish, pour over the rest of the Olive Oil and add your chosen toppings. √ Finish with the lemon slice.

Bring the left side of the paper circle over the fish and seal with small folds all the way round, rather like a pasty, but just before you finish the last ¼, pour in the dry white wine, then complete the folding.

Bake in the oven at 180C fan/200C conventional for 10 – 15 minutes. Thin fillets will take only 10 minutes. Thicker chunks of fish like Hake or Cod will take a little longer. I always open a few folds on my parcel (not the guests’) to check if it flakes with a fork. That means it’s done.

When you cut open the paper, all the fragrance of the combined ingredients rise to your delight and get those digestive juices flowing! It’s a spectacular supper and tastes divine. Serve with your favourite white wine and veggies. Enjoy the sunshine!

Cook’s note: If you have difficulties with folding you can use a rectangular piece of baking paper, instead of the circle and putting the fish in the middle, fold over both sides and tie the ends with string making it look like a Christmas Cracker.

If it were Christmas Eve or Boxing Day you could tie Christmas ribbon onto the parcel, after it’s cooked, before taking to the table. This is an ideal way to feed large numbers but take care tearing them open as steam can burn.

Christmas and New Year’s greetings to all our customers

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WHAT’S ON

Theatres & Shows in the style of guitar legend Django Reinhardt. The swinging guitars and soaring clarinet solos are evocative of the soundtrack to 1940’s Paris.

The Lyric ROYAL PARADE PLYMOUTH Box Office 01752 267222 www.theatreroyal.com

Dec 14 and 21, Jan 4 and 18 CUBA PARTY Latin tunes and cocktails with resident DJ Misael playing the best in salsa, bachata, Reggaeton, Merengue, Best of Cuban Music and much more. Music from 10pm until 1am.

Dec 13 BBC BIG BAND: NAT KING COLE Featuring world-class live music, alongside projected archive images, The BBC Big Band and their special guest vocalist, Atila, present a very special concert celebrating the centenary of the birth of the inimitable Nat ‘King’ Cole.

Dec 14 THE CARPENTERS STORY This highly acclaimed concertstyle production continues to captivate audiences across the UK with its spectacular re-creation of the classic songbook that made The Carpenters legends in the world of popular music. Featuring all of the Carpenters hit songs including (They Long To Be) Close To You, Yesterday Once More, We’ve Only Just Begun, Superstar, A Song For You, Rainy Days & Mondays, and many more!

Dec 20 to Jan 18 CINDERELLA Cinderella will feature star casting, laugh-out-loud comedy, jaw-dropping special effects, stunning song and dance and plenty of boos and hisses as the ultimate pantomime is brought magically to life. Leading the Cinderella cast is the King of Comedy himself, Brian Conley!

Jan 20 to 25 PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT Starring Strictly Come Dancing winner Joe McFadden, Priscilla is the hilarious adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus bound for the Outback to put on the show of a lifetime.

Drum Theatre ROYAL PARADE PLYMOUTH Box Office 01752 267222 Until Jan 18 THE ELVES AND THE SHOEMAKER Stuff and Nonsense return to Theatre Royal Plymouth with another festive treat, following recent shows The Enormous Turnip, The Emperor’s New Clothes, The 3 Little Pigs,

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Dec 15 BROADWAY AT THE B-BAR Plymouth Performing Arts Academy present an evening of musical theatre, showcasing some of the most exciting and freshest talent in the area.

Le Navet Bete present their family comedy at the Plymouth Athenaeum until January 5.

Goldilocks and the 3 Bears and last year’s extraordinarily popular The Gingerbread Man. This hilarious re-telling of the muchloved classic tale is a total delight for all the family, full of wit, charm and surprising puppetry.

Until Dec 30 LES GLORIABLES Inspired by Les Miserables, legendary French actress Gloria Delaneuf has created a life-changing piece of theatre which will reunite Europe. She has dreamed a dream, and her hapless assistant Josephine has promised to build a barricade.

Expect a master class in mutiny ‘French style’ with berets, baguettes, and gratuitous nudity.

Vive La Revolution! A riotously silly, very physical, highly visual theatre show.

Jan 21 to 25 ONCE UPON A TIME Gonzo Moose are back with a comedy adventure bursting with absurd jokes, physical comedy and magical illusion. Join three daring actors as they switch wildly between a myriad of roles.

CASTLE STREET, PLYMOUTH BOX OFFICE: 01752 267131 www.barbicantheatre.co.uk Dec 10 to Jan 5 TREASURE ISLAND At the Plymouth Athenaeum. A swashbuckling family comedy for Christmas presented by the ever popular Le Navet Bete. Join the four lads as they play out the legendary tale as you’ve never seen it before. Set sail with Long John Silver and some other

The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

characters you may not expect and prepare for a belly laughing journey to the Caribbean and back. X will mark the spot this Christmas!

Dec 12 to Dec 23 A GRIMM CHRISTMAS After last year’s inaugural ‘An Evening With Krampus’ was so well received, The Wheel and Barbican Theatre return with another alternative Christmas show where the kids are definitely not allowed! A Grimm Christmas features professional actors, supported by emerging actors and performers from the region.

Jan 11 ULTIMATE ELTON AND THE ROCKET BAND Some tribute artists look like their idol, some sound like their idol.

Paul Bacon as Elton John does both! At Plymouth Athenaeum.

Dec 19 RUE & ELANI New duo from local musicians Rue - Rachel Newton - and Elani Evangelou. A mix of 90s RnB and modern soul covers. Expect angelic harmonies, jazz chords and maybe a guitar solo or two.

Dec 20 NEIL BURNS ORGAN TRIO Featuring Neil Burns on guitar, Martin Jenkins on organ and Ric Byer on drums, this grooveheavy hard-swinging trio play a selection of Blue Note gems and originals.

Jan 3 PAT REEDY All the way from Nashville Tennessee... Pat Reedy makes honest honky-tonk music for the modern world, mixing twang, blue-collar songwriting and working-class pride.

Jan 8 COMEDY NIGHT Monthly comedy night featuring some of the best stand-ups on the circuit and some up and coming talent.

CASTLE STREET, PLYMOUTH 01752 242021 WWW.B-BAR.CO.UK Dec 12 LIZZIE CORISH Lizzie has been described as one of the hardest working solo musicians on the South West music scene. A prolific songwriter, her guitar dynamic is wide and varied, supported by amazing vocal effects.

Dec 13 and Jan 10 SWINGOLOGY Swingology perform gypsy swing

Jan 9 PAUL ARMER Paul Armer is a country/ Americana singer-songwriter who deserves to be heard.

Jan 11 LOST IN SPACE A madcap mix of funky ska, retro grooves and gypsy stomp, from full brass to hot strings, seven piece band, with at least fifteen instruments, not all at the same time.

Jan 12 SUNDAY SERMON Monthly jazz gig/jam session hosted by the Neil Burns Organ Trio.

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WHAT’S ON Jan 16 KATE FERGUSON Kate is a singer-songwriter from Devon, with a distinctive soprano vocal style which she accompanies with fingerstyle and jazz guitar.

Jan 17 GEOFF LAKEMAN AND ROB MURCH The ‘Titan of Twang’ and the ‘Concertina Crooner’ team up in a dynamic new duo whose relaxed yet sparkling stage presence together is bubbling with the feelgood factor. Geoff is the patriach of a folk dynasty and Rob brings the ‘wow’ factor to the banjo.

Jan 22 CAFE ACOUSTICA The B-Bar’s long running bimonthly local music night sees great local talent, hand-picked by singer-songwriter Jessie Mullen, perform their own original compositions.

Jan 24 RUE Cornwall-based Rue is a singersongwriter who draws upon influences from soul, jazz, rnb and pop. Raised within a creative household, she started playing guitar as a child and found her love for singing in her early teens, and is now on the gig circuit.

MILLBAY ROAD, PLYMOUTH Box Office: 0333 772 7727 www.plymouthpavilions.com Dec 12 RHOD GILBERT It has been a while, but the multiaward-winning Welsh comedian is back, with a brand new live show which sees Rhod as funny as ever, but like never before. Raw, personal and brutally honest; no more lies, no more nonsense.

Dec 13 and 14 ROMESH RANGANATHAN Romesh is back with a brand new show ‘The Cynic’s Mixtape’, his most brutally honest show yet.

Dec 18 LOST IN MUSIC Get ready to recreate the Magical 70s and take a musical journey straight to the heart of disco!

Relive some of the greatest songs of all time from Artists such as Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor, Earth, Wind & Fire, Sister Sledge and Chic. The show boasts a sensational live band, incredibly talented cast and stunning vocals.

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Dec 20 JOOLS HOLLAND Accompanying Jools with the Rhythm & Blues Orchestra will be the supremely talented Ruby Turner, with her breath-taking gospel, soul and rhythm and blues vocals, Louise Marshall, with her beautiful soul and jazz tones, as well as original Squeeze member and powerhouse Gilson Lavis on drums.

Dec 21 THE BOOTLEG BEATLES The world’s premier Beatles show continues to draw critical acclaim from across the globe with their immaculate note-perfect portrayal of the fab four’s journey through the swinging 60s. It’s all there - the costumes, the mannerisms, the witty banter and the period gear.

Jan 24 CIRCUS OF HORRORS The new Circus of Horrors show will be an immersive celebration of its astounding 25 years. It will include an amazing amalgamation of acts, driven by a rock n roll sound scape. The almighty cast that stormed into the finals of Britain’s Got Talent is now a West End and worldwide hit.

Question of Sport will be live on stage at the Pavilions

A Question of Sport is coming to Plymouth.

Join host Sue Barker and team captains Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell – together with a host of big-name guests – as the world’s longest running TV sports quiz celebrates its 50th anniversary with an allnew live show.

A Question of Sport Live on May 23 is the perfect way for fans to see the hit show up close in a live environment.

It is truly interactive as audience members will be able to participate by directly posing questions to the teams and getting involved in some rounds before the traditional ‘Sprint Finish’ climax.

This is A Question of Sport’s first tour in nine years and Sue, Matt and Phil are all excited about getting back on the road together with a host of special guest star panellists who will soon be revealed.

•

Tickets available from The Ticket Store at www. theticketstore. co.uk or by calling 0333 772 7727.

www.cornerstonevision.com

@CornerstoneVis

Theatres & Shows

The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

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WHAT’S ON

Theatres & Shows

The Riviera Ramblers will be at Plymouth Jazz Club on February 16

Music Dec 10 CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE Plymouth Methodist Central Hall at 8pm. Featuring the University of Plymouth Choral Society. Free admission, booking advised from The Arts Institute, 01752 585050 www.plymouth.ac.uk/artsinstitute.

Dec 14 PLYMOUTH PHOENIX CHORALE St Peter’s Church, Wyndham Square at 7.30pm. Musical Director Simon Badge, with Alice Hudson - violin. Concert including Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Christmas Carols, Benjamin Britten’s excerpts from Ceremony of Carols and the world premiere of a new work by Paul Saggers. Tickets £10 from eventbrite.co.uk or for details visit plymouthphoenixchorale.org.

Dec 14 MUSIC OF THE NIGHT CHRISTMAS Stoke Damerel Parish Church, Paradise Road at 7.30pm.

Featuring The Music of the Night Choral Foundation, musical director Scott Angell, accompanist Claire Anderson and guest soloist soprano Imogen Clarke. Tickets £5 from www.ticketsource.co.uk/ MOTN or 01752 367021.

Dec 15 PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB Royal British Legion, Tailyour Road, Crownhill. Featuring The Two Counties Jazz Band, a traditional jazz band with local musicians and popular trumpeter Graham Trevarton. A great Christmas Party band! Tickets 01752 721179 or from www. plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk.

Dec 18 CHRISTMAS CONCERT Methodist Central Hall, Plymouth at 7.30pm. Plymouth Area Police Choir with Montpelier School.

Tickets from Rod Fowler 01752 339788.

Dec 18 CHRISTMAS CONCERT Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir present ‘The Heavens are Telling’ at Crownhill Methodist Church at

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7.30pm. Christmas music for all.

Tickets £5 on the door. Details 01752 292118. Proceeds for the Plymouth Soup Run. Dec 21 Christmas Concert St Andrew’s Minster, Plymouth at 7.30pm. With the South West Philharmonia & Chorus. Tickets from www.swpac.co.uk Dec 20 CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS Carol service in aid of the Primrose Foundation at the Roman Catholic Cathedral, Plymouth at 7pm. Featuring the Stanborough Chorus, conducted

by Christopher Fletcher with guests from the Plymouth Philharmonic Choir and the choirs of Holy Cross Catholic Primary School and The Cathedral School of St Mary. For more information contact Madeleine Matthews on 01752 975217.

Jan 19 PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB Royal British Legion, Tailyour Road, Crownhill. Featuring The Dart Valley Stompers. Tickets 01752 721179 or from www. plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk.

The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

Jan 28 PLYMOUTH CLARION CHOIR St Budeaux Methodist Church concert for senior citizens.

Feb 2 ELEGANCE DUO Sherwell United Church, Plymouth. Ekaterina Shetliffe - piano and Yulia Northridge - violin. Russian Music - by Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov, Shostakovich and more. Tickets £12.

Feb 2 PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB Royal British Legion, Crownhill.

Featuring Derek Nash - featured saxophonist in Jools Holland Big Band, with the Martin Dale Quartet. Tickets 01752 721179 or from www.plymouth-jazz-club. org.uk.

Feb 5 BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Plymouth Guildhall at 7.30pm. conductor Marta Gardolińska, with Alfredo Ovalles - piano.

Featuring Mozart’s Don Giovanni Overture and Beethoven’s Piano

Concerto No.4 and Symphony No.6 ‘Pastoral.’ Tickets £17 - £22 from 01202 669925 or online at BSO. Limited selection of seats available from the Theatre Royal Box Office 01752 267222.

Feb 16 PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB Royal British Legion, Crownhill.

Featuring The Riviera Ramblers.

A welcome return of John Shillto’s swinging hot rhythm jazz band which was a big hit on it’s first visit to Plymouth Jazz Club one last year. Tickets 01752 721179 or from www.plymouth-jazz-club. org.uk.

Feb 16 DEVON BAROQUE Dartington Hall at 3pm. 20th Anniversary Concert featuring music for multiple violins by Valentini, Saloman Rossi, Telemann and Vivaldi. Tickets Dartington Box Office (01803) 847070 or visit www.dartington. org/whatson For details of music events in and around Plymouth visit www.plyclassical.co.uk

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Great line up at the Theat Plymouth’s Theatre Royal has unveiled its programme of events through to the summer of 2020 - and it includes several blockbuster musicals.

Topping the bill are 9 to 5 The Musical, Mamma Mia! And Priscilla Queen of the Desert.

Starring Strictly Come Dancing winner Joe McFadden, Priscilla is the hilarious adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus bound for the Outback to put on the show of a lifetime. It is on stage from January 20 to 25.

With an Oscar, Grammy and Tony award-nominated score by the Queen of Country herself, Dolly Parton, the hilarious new production of 9 to 5 The Musical is about teaming up, standing up and taking care of business. The show is performed from July 14 to July 18.

ABBA fans can look forward to the stage version of Mamma Mia! from July 21 to August 8. Set on a Greek island paradise, a story of love, friendship and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA. Other musicals in the coming months include Thriller Live from June 22 to 27 - featuring over two hours of non-stop hits from pop to rock, soul to disco as the cast pay homage to a musical legacy and iconic choreography.

The Broadway and West End hit Once The Musical, based on a cult 2006 Irish indie feature, that’s a ravishing love story with a bittersweet difference is featured from July 6 to 11.

Nominated for five Olivier Awards including Best New Musical, and opening on Broadway in March 2020, the sellout international smash hit SIX is the phenomenon everyone is losing their head over and is on stage from May 27 to May 31.

The worldwide smash-hit musical Million Dollar Quartet (June 2 to June 6) is inspired by the famous recording session that brought together rock n roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first and only time.

Drama highlights include Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

Theatres & Shows

p of shows tre Royal

Tel: 01752 266000 Email: plymouthcounselling@gmail.com Web: plymouthcounselling.com Address: 36 Looe Street, The Barbican, Plymouth, PL4 OEB Facebook: Personal & Relationship Counselling

(February 12 to February 29), the longest running show of any kind in the history of theatre, and Dial M for Murder (June 30 to July 4) starring TV and stage favourite, Tom Chambers, stars in a brand-new production as the charismatic and manipulative Tony Wendice, a jaded ex-tennis pro who has given it all up for his wife Margot.

Stephen Daldry’s visionary, radical, challenging version of J.B. Priestley’s classic thriller, An Inspector Calls, hailed as the theatrical event of its generation, has been seen by more than four million people worldwide and will be in Plymouth from March 3 to March 7.

Other highlights include the return of the Royal Shakespeare Company with a season of exhilarating works by the Bard, direct from Stratford-Upon-Avon from February 12 to February 22.

Meanwhile Welsh National Opera perform a season full of revenge, temptation and suspense with The Marriage of Figaro, Carmen and Les Pres Siciliennes between April 15 and April 18.

Fans of dance will look forward to performances by international ballet superstar Carlos Acosta and his critically acclaimed Cuban company, Acosta Danza, who will present a programme of new and existing works on March 27 and 28, along with Birmingham Royal Ballet’s lavish production of Swan Lake from April 1 to April 4.

Breakin’ Convention, the world’s ground-breaking festival of hip hop dance theatre, is back with a fresh new line up on May 12 and 13. Hosted and created by UK hip hop theatre legend and Breakin’ Convention Artistic Director Jonzi D. Mayflower 400 celebrations feature This Land, an epic Theatre Royal Production marking the 400 year anniversary of the Mayflower’s journey and its impact upon arrival in America.

•

21st January is SAGA Day at Peter Goord Travel Come in and meet the Saga Representative Book your appointment on ppointments@petergoordtravel.co.uk a or call 01752 364186 (Spaces are limited) (Booking bonus given on the day)

For tickets and details visit www.theatreroyal.com or call the Box Office on 01752 267222

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

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WHAT’S ON

Major Events Various dates LEAGUE TWO FOOTBALL Dec 14 Argyle v Morecambe Dec 29 Argyle v Stevenage Jan 1 Argyle v Swindon Town Jan 18 Argyle v Mansfield Jan 28 Argyle v Crawley NATIONAL LEAGUE RUGBY Dec 21 Albion v Cinderford Jan 11 Albion v Old Elthamians Jan 25 Albion v Rosslyn Park BRITISH BASKETBALL LEAGUE Dec 15 Raiders v London City Dec 28 Raiders v Bristol Jan 10 Raiders v London Lions Feb 7 Raiders v Surrey Until Dec 19 CHRISTMAS MARKET City Centre Log cabins and other seasonal stalls, festooned with fairy lights, will house traders from the South West and beyond, selling everything from handmade jewellery and clothing, to artwork and homewares.

Until Jan 5 PENGUINS: A LEGO® BRICK TRAIL The LEGO® brick penguins are returning to Plymouth city centre this year! See panel on this page.

Until March 1 POLAR BEAR EXPLORER Set off on an exciting journey across Plymouth’s waterfront this winter, in search of the 20 polar bear cubs hidden in businesses from the Barbican to Royal William Yard. Download your trail map from the Visit Plymouth website or pick it up from a

Popular penguin trail returns to city centre

The adorable LEGO® brick penguins have returned to Plymouth’s city centre for the final year, bringing with them some festive familyfun and Christmas magic!

Saturday November 30 saw the start of the Penguins: A LEGO brick trail, where 19 life size LEGO brick penguins and one spectacular Emperor Penguin will be hidden in shops and cafés across the city centre.

The trail cards can be collected from each participating business, Drake Circus Shopping Centre, libraries and the Tourist Information Centre, or they can be downloaded from the Visit Plymouth website.

The trail will run until Sunday January 5, giving participating business. Learn lots about climate change along the way and by finding the cubs, you’ll be in with a chance of winning some brilliant prizes.

Dec 7 and 8 CHRISTMAS FAYRE Mount Edgcumbe Country Park See inspirational cooking

five weeks to seek out all 20 penguin names and add them to the trail card, or enter online, at: www.visitplymouth. co.uk/plymouth-penguins.

All entries must be fully completed and sent in by Wednesday 15 January 2020, for the chance to win some awesome prizes. These include a weekend family trip to LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, courtesy of Plymouth Citycoach, or a Penguin Feeding Experience at Living Coasts for four people.

The trail is a great opportunity to entertain the

children whilst shopping for Christmas gifts or just enjoying some festive treats.

Children will love the Creation Station, who are providing free penguin making craft activities at the market every Sunday. For the selfie-lovers, the giant walkthrough illuminated bauble arch will be back on the Piazza this year too, providing the perfect backdrop to your festive snaps.

demonstrations from West Country chefs and maybe pick up a few tips. Lots of local produce plus a wide variety of local gifts and crafts. Beautiful floral displays by Duchy College students available to buy. Shops, workshops, galleries and a cafe in the Barrow Centre. Plus a programme full of entertainment, a family activity zone, stilt walkers, you can even visit Santa in his Grotto! Scheduled ferries from Stonehouse and the Barbican. From 10am to 5pm on Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sunday.

will once again be illuminated as part of this after dark Christmas adventure including an enchanted grove adorned with over 25,000 fairy lights and the soothing sounds of a garden alive with life! Don’t miss the all new show - Finding Wonderland. Discover a spectacle like no other as you’re literally surrounded by an unforgettable kaleidoscope of colourful lights, lasers, special effects and a soundtrack overflowing with emotion.

For more information, visit wondernights.co.uk

Dec 12 to Jan 5 WONDER NIGHTS Mount Edgcumbe Amazing light shows, themed Wonderlands, mulled wine and even a surprise appearance from Father Christmas will all be at Mount Edgcumbe this festive season. The stunning formal gardens at Mount Edgcumbe

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Major Events

The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

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Saltram House Plympton 01752 333500 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/saltram Until Dec 30 ENCHANTED SALTRAM Step into the magical world of Enchanted Saltram and become spellbound by what you see.

Follow the illuminated trail through the garden after dusk and discover the fairytales through the treasure rooms of the house. Not Dec 25 or 26.

From Dec 1 STORYTIME WITH FATHER CHRISTMAS Sit down and join Father Christmas in the stables as he shares magical stories and some festive songs. Includes a special keepsake. Check website for dates, times and tickets.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

Dec 14 STORYTIME WITH FATHER CHRISTMAS GROWN UPS ONLY Who said Christmas was just for kids? If you’re tired of missing out and struggling to get into the Christmas spirit we have just the thing for you, with our grown-ups only performance. Includes a glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate and keepsake 7pm to 7.45pm.

Booking essential.

Buckland Abbey Yelverton 01822 853607 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ bucklandabbey From Nov 30 STORYIME WITH OLDE FATHER CHRISTMAS Come and meet Olde Father Christmas who is dressed in traditional green, as he tells

magical festive stories. Each child will be gifted with a special Christmas keepsake. Check website for dates, times and prices.

From Dec 1 FESTIVE FAMILY CRAFTING If crafting is your thing, then Buckland Abbey is the place for you this Christmas. There are lots of opportunities for family craft making with the return of Naturemake on set dates throughout December. With different festive activities planned, there’s something for everyone.

Check website for dates and times.

From Dec 1 A TRANQUIL CHRISTMAS AT BUCKLAND Escape the crowds and reflect on the genuine Christmas under a constellation of a thousand willow wishing stars and hear choirs fill the air with music under a towering Christmas tree. Wander the Abbey and breathe in the scent of fresh foliage that is beautifully decorating the rooms. Check website for dates and times.

From Dec 1 FESTIVE FAMILY TRAIL Wrap up warm and head out on the estate as you take part in one of the fun festive family trails in the woodland. Check website for dates and times.

Jan 5 TRADITIONAL WASSAIL At 1pm head to the Great Barn to be entertained by a traditional Mummers Play, which is an ancient custom of ‘making diversion in disguise’. The dancers put on

Family Events

season. The stunning formal gardens at Mount Edgcumbe will once again be illuminated as part of this after dark Christmas adventure including an enchanted grove adorned with over 25,000 fairy lights and the soothing sounds of a garden alive with life! Don’t miss the all new show - Finding Wonderland. Discover a spectacle like no other as you’re literally surrounded by an unforgettable kaleidoscope of colourful lights, lasers, special effects and a soundtrack overflowing with emotion.

For more information, visit wondernights.co.uk Cotehele Calstock 01579 351346 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ cotehele

masks, dance and perform a play with a silly plot. At 2pm, follow the Wassail parade into the orchard to sprinkle the trees with cider. Bring your pots and pans to make lots of noise to ward off the bad spirits! The Ox Yard restaurant will be open for mulled cider, hot drinks, and food until 4pm.

Mount Edgcumbe Cremyll 01752 822236 www.mountedgcumbe.gov.uk Dec 12 to Jan 5 WONDER NIGHTS Amazing light shows, themed Wonderlands, mulled wine and even a surprise appearance from Father Christmas will all be at Mount Edgcumbe this festive

From Nov 29 VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS AT COTEHELE MILL The mill will be opening for the first time ever at Christmas. It will be decorated in traditional Victorian style and visitors will be able to discover how families like the Langsfords, who lived here, celebrated Christmas in Victorian times. There’ll be lots of activities for families to enjoy here, including dressing up and festive crafts and Mother and

Father Christmas will be visiting here too. The event will run on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout December and daily from December 21 to January 5, except Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Check website for details.

Various dates FESTIVE FAMILY TRAIL Wrap up warm and bring the family to Cotehele to follow this fun festive trail. Various dates in December - check website for details.

Dec 21 LET’S WASSAIL Put on your festive waistcoat, dig out your trombone and come help us scare away the evil spirits in the Cotehele Orchards from 11.30am. Embellished hats and fancy dress are encouraged - a fun event for all ages.

Until Jan 5 CHRISTMAS FLOWER GARLAND AT COTEHELE This year the Christmas garland has 32,000 flowers, all grown on the estate. Join the Cotehele crew to admire this 60ft-long masterpiece in the Great Hall.

The garland will be on display until January 5. (closed 25 - 26 December).

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Shutters & Blinds

WHAT’S ON

Celebrating New Year at Soapbox Theatre Soapbox Children’s Theatre in Devonport Park will be celebrating New Year’s Eve with Bubblicious Baby and Family Raves.

The super family friendly dance party will celebrate New Year’s Eve on a different time zone. The clock will be re-set for a special count down to ‘midnight!’ For under fives they will celebrate with Papua New Guinea and for the over fives they will raise a glass with Thailand.

The event will feature UV decor, smoke, bubbles, walkabout-performers, parachute games and lots more. Entry includes free UV/glitter makeover and arts and crafts chill-out area.

There will be two shows - the first from 1pm to 3pm for the the little ones and their grown ups and a family rave from 4pm to 6pm.

Adults can enjoy a complimentary glass off fizz and for children there’s free glow sticks, UV face painting and chill out tent.

Meanwhile Soapbox will celebrate the traditional Wassail on January 19 from 5.30pm to 9.30pm. Dress up as tree sprites, faeries and elves (optional for parents!), meet the Jack Frost and help us wake up The Spellbound Wood. Then come back to The Soapbox for an evening of dancing with The Brim Ceilidh Band.

Take pots, pans and musical instruments to wake up the apple trees and the trees in the Spellbound wood. Licensed bar serving hot spiced cider.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

Family Events

For tickets and details of these and other events at The Soapbox visit www.stiltskin.org.uk

GARDENING MATTERS

By Derek Anderson When the Christmas tree has had to come down, the living room always feels bare, so why not make it feel more homely with some houseplants.

They will not only make your living room look and feel more inviting, but they will actually purify the air in your home and remove harmful toxins from the air and convert them into oxygen.

They can also help reduce the humidity levels in our homes and reduce the risk of damp and moulds growing in our homes. Dracaena is a lovely tall houseplant that has sturdy stems and glossy arching green leaves. Some varieties have very colourful leaves with yellow or red stripes running through them. This likes a bright, light position out of direct sunlight.

If you are after a table plant or one for the mantelpiece, Maranta, also known as the prayer plant, is a great choice. This small foliage plant has beautifully colourful stripy leaves in red green and golden. It is low growing and stays relatively small.

It isn’t fussy about position as long it’s away from cold draughts and hot Maranta radiators. Calatheas are very similar to Marantas and are from the same family. They require the same care and are available in a wider range of leaf shapes and colours. Some varieties can grow quite large, so can be used to fill a bare looking corner.

If you aren’t particularly green fingered and worry about keeping a plant alive, then Aspidistra is the plant for you. Its common name is the cast iron plant, and that says it all: it’s tough, easy to grow and incredibly difficult to kill. It also loves a shady spot, so will be perfect for those rooms that don’t get much light.

Cacti and succulents have boomed in popularity in recent years and the trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. Their popularity is due to their ease of care and wide variety of colours, shapes and sizes. They’ll grow in

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

Houseplant good for yo bright sunlight happily on a window ledge, don’t require much looking after and are extremely tough.

With very little care, they can live for years. They only need to be watered sparingly in the growing season (March to October), give them a drink when soil is dry to the touch, don’t water until dry again. It couldn’t be easier.

They’ll appreciate a small feeding during the summer month with a cactus feed and as an added bonus, they can flower in the spring and they flowers are usually fairly large, stunning and brightly coloured.

For humid and damp areas of the house (generally the kitchen and Anthurium bathroom), there are some plants that will thrive in these condition with ease.

Anthuriums and Spathiphyllums are two flowering varieties of house plants that are native to warm, tropical rainforests and will love a slightly shaded, warm room with plenty of humidity.

These locations will mimic their natural environment and as thanks they will reward you with beautiful blooms. If flowers aren’t for you and you prefer the foliage look, tender ferns, such as the Maidenhair fern (Adiantum) and the Boston fern (Nephrolepsis) love those sort of conditions too and create an elegant and sophisticated aesthetic.

For those that have trouble sleeping, grow a Spider plant (Chlorophytum) in the bedroom.

This arching and hanging plant is great for absorbing toxins in the air like odours, fumes and the formaldehyde.

Spider plants are also great at increasing oxygen in the air and filtering out toxins to help you breathe easier in the evening and allowing better sleep. These plants absorb benzene, carbon monoxide and xylene.

All these plants are easy to grow and don’t need much attention. Give them a drink about once a week and a house plant feed once a month between March and November and they will thrive.

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Plant up a winter pot

Choose Your Pot We like to use a pot that is at least 30cm x 30cm as this is a nice size to go by a backdoor or on a step. During Spring/Summer we use bright, colourful pots and during Autumn/Winter we like to use the metallics. Plastic, wood or ceramic, it doesn’t matter to the plants, it’s purely down to personal preference, just make sure that whatever container you use, it has drainage holes.

Choose Your Compost We recommend using the ‘Container & Basket’ compost if you are uneasy and unsure of mixing your own. Here at the Garden Centre we like to use ‘Jack’s Magic’ or ‘Multipurpose with Added John Innes’ as they are both of excellent quality. We also add slow release fertiliser to them for an extra boost that feeds them all season long.

Choose Your Plants A simple technique to guarantee fantastic pots is the ‘Thriller Spiller Filler’ technique. Your thriller plant is the centrepiece. This is the plant that will add height and interest to the centre of the pot. We like to use Cupressus ’Wilma’ because it is bright and golden, evergreen, easy to grow and lemon scented.

Any tall shrub or plant that you like will do. Cordylines work really well for an exotic look, Rhododendrons and Camellias with give more colour with large, showy flowers in spring and Nandinas and Pieris provide interest with beautiful colourful evergreen foliage.

For the spillers, those are the plants that cascade over the edge of the pot. At this time of year, the range of plants is limited, we tend to use Ivy as it’s hardy, evergreen and reliable. Other plants that can be used are grasses, Heucheras, ferns or Vincas.

The fillers are the colour that fills the pot. These tend to be bedding plants. At this time of year, we use cyclamen or primroses to give a strong hit of colour and fill in the gaps with Violas, Pansies, Bellis and Cineraria.

We also like to stick to some colour themes, pastel shades in pink, purple and white is always a winner and hot colours in red, yellow and oranges is a great combination.

To extend the flowering season into late spring, you can plant pot grown spring flowering bulbs in between your choice of bedding plants. Excellent dwarf varieties for the edge include Narcissus ‘Tete a Tete’, Crocus, Iris reticulate and Anemone blanda. For the centre, medium to taller Tulips and Daffodils will look exquisite and for a really show stopping pot, Crown Imperials Fritillarias and Snake Head Fritillarias will really give the wow factor.

When your pot is done, give it a good drink with tepid water (so it doesn’t shock the plants) and deadhead when necessary! www.cornerstonevision.com

@PlymMag

@PlymMag

Plymouth 01752 546 222 Launceston 01566 774 030

PRIDE & JOY The Home and nd Garden Maintenance Team

Our services include: • hedge & shrub maintenance • weeding • • tree work • lawn care & grass cutting • • creation of flower & veggie beds • • trellis work • shed & greenhouse work • • general garden tidying • pond care • • fencing & gates • patios & decking • The coming months are an excellent time to look after your trees.

Trees are mainly dormant now, the sap is not rising and there are very few leaves on them. It is an excellent time to prune and shape, especially fruit trees, but all trees will benefit from being looked after. Dead or storm damaged branches can be removed and trees can be felled and stumps and root balls removed.

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01752 721528 / 07773339470 www.prideandjoy-homeandgarden.co.uk The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

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TRAVEL MATTERS

Chance to meet tour specialists in person I love living in the South West of England, especially Plymouth my hometown.

Having worked in London and Cardiff in the early part of my career, I can really appreciate the slower pace of life and just how lucky we are to be beside the sea, and close to areas of outstanding natural beauty.

ranging from exclusive special offers, bottles of bubbly or a crate of wine.

For the first three months of the year I have selected Saga, Riviera Holidays and Typically Holidays. Here are some details about each operator and what they have to offer;

From a business point of view, living in this part of the world does have its challenges. By Travel Expert I am often asked to ‘pop up’ to Manchester or London for business meetings or special events without the tour operator realising that I could be out of the office for up to two days!

Likewise, the tour operators rarely visit agencies in the South West, so for this reason we have organised specific ‘Tour Operator Days’ in our office at West Park, from January 2020. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet representatives from the tour operators in person, and ask any questions that you may have before, or whilst, booking your holiday.

These informative days are by appointment only and emphasise the strong relationship we have with these reputable tour operators.

The tour operators concerned have been selected for their competitively priced range of products, quality, knowledge of the destination they sell and popularity.

Each operator will also give a ‘booking bonus’ on the day,

Anthony Goord

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

SAGA January 21 – 10am to 4pm The UK’s specialist provider of cruises and tours across the globe for the over 50s. Whether you’re a single traveller, or in a group, Saga have something for you. They have always been a very popular operator but in the past labelled as attracting an older age group much higher than those in their 50s. This has changed in recent years bringing the overall age demographic down to include more in their 50s and 60s.

Having entered into the ocean cruise market, as well as river cruising, the products they offer are of an excellent quality. It’s not just on the water they excel though, their touring brochure includes destinations throughout the world with many extras that other operators don’t offer. It’s always worth considering them as well, not only for their competitively priced travel insurance (which is only available in conjunction with a Saga holiday) which covers many preexisting conditions, and all ages, but they also offer a free home pick up service from the West Country on most of their holidays.

TRAVEL MATTERS

To book an appointment with Claire Hodgkins from Saga, on January 21 please email appointments@petergoordtravel. co.uk or call us on 01752 364186.

RIVIERA TRAVEL February 12 - 10am until 4pm Riviera Travel has been arranging holidays for Guardian and Observer readers for over 15 years. They are renowned for creating fascinating and well-organised itineraries with local knowledge at the heart of all tours. They are passionate about the areas visited, ensuring that tours include hidden gems as well as the obvious tourist highlights.

Throughout their range of holidays, from European and worldwide tours, to river cruises and tall ship voyages, you will find the same high standards of hotels, transportation and tour managers.

They offer ships of an excellent quality and are fairly priced without any compromise on quality. I have also found their European single centre holidays great value for money. You not only have a central hotel to enjoy the resorts, but also have excursions included to see historical sights and areas of natural beauty.

Riviera Travel have become very popular with my clients who now book with them year after year.

To book an appointment with Paul Mellon from Riviera Travel on February 12 please email appointments@ petergoordtravel.co.uk or call us on 01752 364186.

TYPICALLY HOLIDAYS March 4 - 10am until 4pm Typically Holidays are a specialist company offering tailormade holidays to Italy and Spain with that personal touch.

They can put together your perfect holiday with flights from our local airports with experiences that fit your requirements in hotels, apartments or villas.

They also offer city breaks, multi-centre and experiencebased holidays. I have booked many holidays with Typically Holidays over the years and find that they can organise almost any itinerary to suit your requirements. Whether it’s single or three centre holidays around Italy or Spain either by rail, or self-drive, Typically Holidays can provide an unforgettable trip.

Being owned by an Italian family they offer more boutique and family run quality hotels not used by major operators, with prices that are very competitive. If you are looking to go to either Italy or Spain to do something a little bit different come in and speak to the expert.

To book an appointment with Mariam Sajjad from Typically Holidays on March 4 please email appointments@ petergoordtravel.co.uk or call us on 01752 364186.

In the coming months I will announce more dates with operators visiting our office, so watch this space.

2019 has been a challenging year in the world of travel, but for Peter Goord Travel it’s been another successful one. With larger companies on the High Street struggling, by offering a choice and personal service, we are still valued by the people of Plymouth. It is also reassuring to know that our 43-yearold family business will give you 100% financial protection on every holiday booked. Happy Holidays!

increasing public awareness of Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD), we are creating a service to give you some peace of mind.

Cardiac screening in sport

The aim of screening is to detect an unknown (maybe symptom free) underlying cardiac condition, or to hopefully help rule this out. If detected, we will be able to advise on the most appropriate course of action.

Are you taking on a new sporting challenge? Is 2020 the year that you are going to get in the best shape of your life? Or achieve an athletic goal?

Maybe you are already comfortable in your Lycra but looking for the reassurance you need that your heart is as up for it as you are?

There is a dichotomous relationship between sport and SCD. For the vast majority of people, engaging in sport promotes a healthy heart – reducing the risk of high blood pressure, improving cholesterol, and reducing the risk of dying from a cardiac problem.

Introducing Ultracardiac Limited….

People who exercise regularly on average live six years longer than those who don’t. However, for those who have an underlying undiagnosed heart condition that can cause SCD, they are three times more likely to die by playing sport. In summary, sport supports a fit heart…..but a heart unfit for sport may drastically affect your health.

We are specialist providers of cardiac screening, and a preferred NHS Provider fulfilling the outpatient echocardiogram demand from local hospitals, and GPs in Devon and Cornwall.

We are launching our private service, aimed specifically at sportsmen and women. With the

The screening is non-invasive, pain free, and no special precautions need to be taken.

We are looking for abnormalities of the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy), abnormalities of the heart structure (congenital heart disease) and abnormalities of the heart rhythm (cardiac arrhythmia syndromes). Most of these conditions can be diagnosed by a combination of a careful family and medical history, an electrocardiograph (ECG) and an ultrasound examination of the heart structure

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(echocardiogram).

We are not looking for coronary artery disease, but if your questionnaire answers raise concerns, then appropriate onward testing will be recommended.

Results will be with you within 24 hours, along with the recommendations from an imaging specialist consultant cardiologist.

This peace of mind costs just £250 – our special introductory offer to get your 2020 off to a healthy heroic start!! Call us to find out more.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

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BUSINESS MATTERS

KF Kitchens chosen to launch exclusive new brand that is taking kitchen furniture to a ‘whole new level’ Iconic British company Burbidge have chosen family-owned Plymouth firm KF Kitchens to launch their new Kitchen Makers™ brand of luxury hand-made painted wood kitchens.

Faraday Mill-based KF Kitchens have expanded their showroom to showcase the Kitchen Makers range alongside their existing offering of beautiful kitchens and appliances.

It’s a huge endorsement for KF Kitchens, which was established 11 years ago by directors Nathan and Derinda Damarell and Simon Rice.

Nathan said: “We’ve been dealing with Burbidge ever since we started and we are very excited to be asked to be their first partnership dealership for Kitchen Makers, and the only one in our region. It speaks volumes about their trust in us and our reputation for customer service and installation skills.

“It’s also exciting for homeowners, because this gives people in the region the opportunity to see a different type of product, working with a local family business rather than having to travel outside the region. The brand gives us speciality products that are unique and would sit very nicely in a rural or classic style property. In that sense, this broadens our boundaries a bit more,” he added.

Burbidge was founded in 1867 by Henry Burbidge. Today, Ben Burbidge is at the helm - the fifth generation.

The Coventry-based company is renowned for the quality of its design and craftmanship and holds the prestigious Manufacturing Guild Mark, awarded by the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers.

Traditionally, Burbidge have made timber doors only. With the three Kitchen Makers designs, they are also making the carcases so when cupboards and drawers are opened, they are just as stylish as the exterior.

Ben explained why he had decided to launch Kitchen Makers with KF Kitchens: “This is our luxury brand and we need our partnership dealers to possess the kitchen design skills and installation skills so that everything is done properly for the consumer.

“We looked at the people we work with nationally, and there are only about 2% at the skill levels of KF Kitchens. It’s about attention to detail and doing things with precision.”

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

Representatives from Burbidge pictured with Nathan, Derinda and Simon

He added: “The main word we use for these products is furniture, not kitchen units. We are doing bespoke furnituremaking in a ‘craft-meets-technology’ environment to create what the customer wants. The design clearly looks like furniture, but it combines with the practicalities of what is required in a kitchen.”

So, what are the key features of Kitchen Makers that sets them apart? Firstly, they replace wall units with on-trend super-length shelving, set against tongue and groove panelling and corbels for extra detail.

They also have beautiful internal drawers, with natural oak and dovetail jointing. The solid oak vegetable drawer crates, meanwhile, give storage a new look, and you can even match them with wooden serving trays and solid wood chopping boards!

And they make every inch count - from solid wood individual larder drawers and corner solutions, to integral bins, door-hung spice racks and lots more.

“The products are built to last - this longevity is all part of the value,” said Ben. “It also makes the products more sustainable, you are consuming less, which is hugely important. You’re creating a great living space and you’re future-proofing it.”

Nathan added: “This is taking kitchens to a different level and it reflects the way that people use their kitchens nowadays. The kitchen is increasingly the focal point of the home, where people spend a lot of their time, and they are demanding beautiful furniture. And although it’s exclusive, it’s not with the price tag you’d expect.”

BUSINESS MATTERS Nathan added: “We are very fortunate with the skill sets we have. The guys who install our kitchens are basically furniture-makers who happen to install kitchens. So, from the start of the process to the finish, we offer the very best in production, design, install, customer experience and after service. Every part of it has to be excellent. That’s how we work. And that’s why Burbidge have chosen us to launch their Kitchen Makers products.”

Give the KF Kitchens team a call to book a chat, or pop into the showroom to view the kitchens on display.

•

KF Kitchens 67 Faraday Mill, Cattedown, Plymouth PL4 0ST 01752 255022 www. kfkitchens.co.uk

The Kitchen Makers range has three kitchens styles: Alderley, Somerton and Haddon. There are 16 different paint colours or, if you have a specific colour in mind, this can be done at an extra cost. Everything is made by the craftsmen and women at the Burbidge factory and is delivered to KF Kitchens ready for installation.

Once you’ve chosen your style, designers Nathan and Simon will guide you through the process and offer their expert advice within your budget. Then, the installation team will work with you all the way, to ensure your dream kitchen is just what you want.

“We design your kitchen to your requirements,” said Simon.

“But we’ll also question and challenge your decisions by asking ‘if this was my home, what would I do with this space?’

People really do appreciate that. It’s about designing your kitchen to best suit the space, the property and how you use your kitchen.”

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

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PROPERTY MATTERS

It’s yet another beautiful bathroom from Studio One South West Ltd!

John and Sue Cain

When John and Sue Cain started to look for a new bathroom for their home in Hooe, they had a pretty good idea of what they wanted. However, they couldn’t find anywhere in Devon or Cornwall that could provide their dream bathroom.

This was until they visited the impressive Studio One South West showroom at Estover: “As soon as we walked in, we thought ‘wow’, THIS is what we’ve been looking for’, said Sue. “Everything was so well put together, with a variety of different displays and tiles, but the main factor was that so many of the displays were working, so we could try out the different taps, showers, toilets and baths.

“We hadn’t seen anything like this in any of the other places we’d visited, as we felt like they were all so outdated compared to Studio One’s showroom. And the bathrooms looked fantastic. Everything was so up to date, with contemporary, traditional and modern displays so that there is something for everyone.”

Owner of Studio One South West, Mark Fowdon, has been in the bathroom business for 15 years. He opened the showroom at Darklake View, Estover, three years ago, having previously been based at The Royal William Yard.

Mark visited John and Sue’s home and produced a variety of 2D and 3D rendered

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

images of how their bathroom would look, catered to their specific requirements. Sue said: “We told Mark we wanted a contemporary bathroom which fitted not only the existing space but also our lifestyle. We didn’t want a bath; we wanted a big walk-in shower. And we wanted low level storage with the basin, so that everything was easy to reach.

“But we were aware that this would require some bespoke elements, and quite a bit of flexibility from whoever we chose to do the bathroom. And that’s exactly what we got from Studio One. We even got a bespoke shower tray and worktop for the basin unit made exactly for our requirements.”

Studio One South West work with some of the best brands in the business, offering a range of options from medium to high end products to customers. For their bathroom, John and Sue used a combination of brands to create the look they wanted, choosing a Roca basin, Laufen WC, Hansgrohe brassware, an Aquabella shower tray and the tiles from the showroom were from Atlas Concorde.

But, as John explained, there was more to this job than simply installing a bathroom: “Because of what was there before, the ceiling, walls and flooring had to be ripped out and all replaced. We even added underfloor heating, which we would definitely recommend. We also had the whole room tiled.

PROPERTY MATTERS “Literally everything had to be done from scratch and they did it all with their specialist tradesmen – carpenters, plumbers, plasterers, electricians and tilers. They were brilliant. Mark and his team managed and organised the whole bathroom project and they were also meticulously tidy and careful. They put plastic sheeting down everywhere - and they all were nice, friendly guys, which you need if they’re going to be in your house for three weeks. They made us feel very much at ease as everything was so highly organised we didn’t need to do anything.”

The couple are so pleased with their experience with Studio One South West that they are now recommending them to other people: “We couldn’t believe how quick and efficient it all was,” said John. “From the moment we walked into the showroom, right to the end of the work, the process could not have been better.

“There were no add-ons, and everything was done within budget and timescale. In fact, they went over and above with some of the work. For us, it’s the finish that really makes such a difference, the tiling and the fitting of the products, it’s all perfect.”

John and Sue have lived in their house since the early 1970s. In the past few years, they’ve been enhancing and improving so they can enjoy their home to the maximum in their retirement: “The bathroom is the finishing touch and we are delighted with it,” said John. “It has far exceeded our expectations and is a fabulous addition to our home.”

For a bespoke bathroom designed just for you and installed by experts, give the team at Studio One South West Ltd a call.

Or, for inspiration, visit the showroom to see the bathrooms on show - or take a virtual walkaround on the website, where you can also view some photo galleries. www.studioonesw. co.uk

•

Studio One South West Ltd, Unit 3, 6 Darklake View, Estover PL6 7FB 01752 977497 www.studioonesw.co.uk

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Mortgages4Plymouth is an Appointed Representative of PRIMIS Mortgage Network, a trading name of First Complete Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

www.cornerstonevision.com

@PlymMag

@PlymMag

The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

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ENERGY MATTERS

Don’t miss out on huge grants for energy-saving improvements for your home

Members of the QERB team at Estover

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

ENERGY MATTERS Households across Plymouth are living in fuel poverty - simply because they are unaware that they are entitled to grants of up to 100% for energy-saving home improvements.

As winter bites, Plymouth-based company QERB Energy is urging homeowners and tenants to get in touch now, to see if they are eligible for grants to pay for the purchase and installation of products such as a new gas boiler, solar PV system, and cavity, underfloor and loft insulation.

QERB, based at Estover, works with the big energy utility companies and local authorities to make grant applications on behalf of residents and businesses. In many cases, 100% grants are approved, meaning the installations - carried out

by QERB’s own skilled technicians - are often completely free.

In other instances, the grants cover the majority of the work.

The money is available through the Government’s Energy Company Obligation Scheme (ECO3). This requires the big energy suppliers to fund the installation of energy efficiency measures to help tackle fuel poverty and cut carbon emissions.

You could be eligible if you earn less than £30,000 after paying your mortgage/rent and fuel bills, or if your household includes people who are vulnerable to the cold, such as older people, young children or people with certain health issues: “Around 80% of our work is with people classed as vulnerable,” said Mark Guy at QERB. “And none of this is tax-payers’ money - it’s all paid for by the energy companies as part of their obligation to put something back.

“We are very much a local, community-facing business,” he added. “We are aware that these are potentially cold and damp months, so now really is the time to get in touch with us. We can get your home nice and warm very quickly, and you’ll be saving money on your fuel bills as soon as the

• continued on next page Visit our 2000sq. ft showroom for the latest ideas & designs in bathrooms including the latest built-in appliance technology.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

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ENERGY MATTERS

Don’t miss out on grants for energy-saving improvements • continued from previous page

energy-efficient products are installed.”

QERB was launched five years ago and is run by Ben Quick and Ryan Elsey. The business employs over 30 people in the city and uses additional local tradespeople as well. The company is reviewed and monitored

by Trust-a-Trader, and Which? Trusted Traders - and has a 98% rating on each. It is also approved by the Government’s TrustMark Scheme.

Last year, QERB provided 4,204 grants for applicants, installing 1,326 gas boilers and 2,521 storage heaters. The company also insulated 357 homes.

Mark says the process for homeowners and tenants couldn’t be easier: “We’ll come and survey the property from top to bottom to see how your home can be made more energy-efficient,” he explained.

Mark Guy of QERB “We’ll then make the application for you and we’ll install everything. If it’s straightforward, like installing a new boiler, the work can be done in the same week as the survey and application - it’s that quick. The process might take a bit longer though, if there are a number of improvements required.

“We employ our own team of surveyors and installers,” he added. “And all our workers - electricians, gas engineers, plumbers, roofers, scaffolders - are fully accredited with the

relevant government bodies and trade associations.

“So you’re not only getting products and services that are either free or heavily subsidised, you’re also getting a quality that meets or exceeds industry standards and regulations. In addition, we only use the top brands.”

The company has just launched its ‘QERB Give Back’ scheme which rewards organisations such as schools, sports clubs and youth groups in return for successfully advertising QERB’s services: “If that leads to people who are eligible asking us to do the work, we will offer the referring organisation a reward that is tailored for their needs,” said Mark.

“For example, we’ve just provided goal posts for a sports club.

“Playing an active role in our community is very important to us,” he added. “We have a dedicated partnership manager working with local causes on our Give Back scheme, so get in touch if you’d like your organisation to be involved - or see the page on our website.”

You can find out more about the ECO3 eligibility criteria and the installation process on the QERB Energy website, where there is also a contact form. Or give the office team a call.

•

QERB Energy 28B Estover Close, Plymouth PL6 7PL 01752 546160 online@qerb.uk www.qerb.uk

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2020

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