The Plymouth Magazine issue 117 by Cornerstone Vision

plymouth magazine the

Issue 117 March 2014

WIN! A weekend break at The Moorland Hotel Lisaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s key role at Plymouth Albion Latest property market news Royal Marines celebration in city Big Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On guide Published since May 2004 and now DELIVERED FREE

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storms highlight vital need for improved transport links The good news we reported last month on the signing of the historic City Deal has been virtually forgotten as Plymouth and the rest of the South West has had to deal with the consequences of the devastating storms and winds of recent weeks. The destruction of the railway line at Dawlish brought into sharp focus the vulnerability of Plymouth and the rest of the South West Peninsula. It has led to speculation about the creation of an alternative inland railway route and fuelled calls for the re-opening of Plymouth City Airport and increased investment in the road network in Devon and Cornwall. With local businesses set to lose tens of millions of pounds because of the impact of the loss of rail services it is vital that the repairs are carried out rapidly and effectively at Dawlish. It was extremely sad to see the damage caused to properties in Plymouth and South East Cornwall. In particular the images of the popular Wet Wok Chinese eatery and the Waterfront Restaurant at West Hoe being overwhelmed by huge waves were very distressing. We have enjoyed meals on numerous occasions at both venues in the past and hope that both will be open for business again very soon, although some of the damage caused looked pretty dramatic. On a more positive note, in this issue we report on the announcement that Plymouth will be hosting a spectacular celebration to mark the 350th anniversary of the formation of the Royal Marines. The event, called RM350 South West Proms will be held at Brickfields, the home of Plymouth Albion, in July and is expected to attract up to 20,000 people. Congratulations to the organisers who are offering special discounts for local people and also serving or retired Royal Marines. You can find all the details about the event on the centre pages of this edition. Hope you enjoy the latest issue

Publishers: Chris Girdler and Ian Pilkington Editor: Debbie Girdler Designers: Sven Lauch and Sam Francis Photography: Roy Perring Contributors: Jon Morcom; Anthony Goord; Fiona Newton; Derek Anderson ; Liz Crudginton Advertising sales: Naomi Shearer, Sarah Simpson, Tendai Chetse and Dave Simpson Distribution: Tony Hodges and Sharon Hodges Finance: Karen Pilkington and Kim Craig Front cover: Lisa Sutcliffe pictured in the Midas Marquee at Plymouth Albion where she is the Events and Catering Manager Photo by Plymouth Magazine photographer 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.cornerstonevision.com

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Ingredients for a healthier, happy life

caring matters

To coincide with National Nutrition and Hydration Month in March, Waypoints care home manager Tessa Marriott explains why food, drink and the experience of eating can transform health and wellbeing The wise words of Hippocrates - ‘Let food be thy medicine and medicine by thy food’ – strongly resonates with our care priorities at Waypoints.

It is essential that residents drink enough fluid to stay hydrated and healthy. Feeling tired, headaches and not feeling at your best are common symptoms of de-hydration.

Food, drink and the experience of eating can be very effective in terms of physical nourishment, healing, defence against illness and overall sense of wellbeing.

When creating the ‘Menu of the Day’ and the seasonal menu in our bistro and restaurant, our chefs take into account food which naturally has a high water content, like fruit and vegetables. Soups, stews and casseroles also have a lot of water added during the preparation.

Our catering team, led by an experienced and creative Head Chef, takes pride in providing nutritious, varied, tasty and balanced food for our residents. The specific dietary requirements and personal preferences of each resident is met. Individual Care Plans and our own knowledge about each resident gives us valuable information about their favourite dishes or treats which we will offer to lift spirits when feeling under the weather or to encourage eating if unwell.

As we get older we have a weaker sense of thirst to tell us we need to drink more. We also need to take into account other factors, for example if the weather is hot or someone has a high temperature with illness. Residents can have a drink whenever they like. Each bedroom wing also has a kitchen where hot and cold beverages are served.

Dementia can affect recognition of food and appetite. Some medications can also change taste and flavours.

The communal dining areas are vibrant but relaxing settings for meals. We do not dictate to our residents when and where they would like to eat – this is their home and they choose.

Our nursing and care staff keep a close eye on what and how much residents are eating and drinking through observation and discussion with the residents and their relatives.

They can eat in their own room or host relatives and friends for a snack, afternoon tea or Sunday lunch.

Residents are weighed monthly and weight loss will prompt a range of actions from fortifying food and offering food ‘little and often’ to a referral to a doctor or Hearty soups and casseroles can help greatly with hydration because water is added dietician for advice.

during the preparation.

All our staff take their breaks and dine with the people they look after. This is a precious opportunity to enjoy the company of others and benefit from the stimulation of conversation.

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For further information call 0800 092 1186 or visit www.waypoints-care.co.uk 4

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march 2014 edition

overcomer ross Business owner Ross Kitto from Plympton was devastated when he was diagnosed with cancer. But he has overcome the setback to continue to build his cleaning company

ben’s blueprint for success

steve’s new role

Ben Shearn, one of Plymouth’s most successful entrepreneurs, talks about his city centre venue, The Treasury, and his formula for success

plymouth property update

Steve Jones, one of Plymouth’s best-known property professionals, has joined leading independent estate agents Cross Keys as an equity partner

what’s on in plymouth

Darren Lawson of Mansbridge & Balment predicts a busy year for the Plymouth property market with increased consumer confidence stimulating activity

Our comprehensive What’s On section has details of all the events coming up in the Plymouth area over the next few weeks, including shows, music, sport and family activities

travel matters

Anthony Goord of Peter Goord Travel reports on his recent Caribbean cruise on board the luxury liner Silversea Whisper

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Plymouth Albion’s events and catering manager Lisa Sutcliffe admits she knows very little about rugby - but she certainly knows a thing or two about the hospitality and catering business. Prior to joining Albion last July she spent six years running pubs in and around London for one of the major breweries. Her final position was as manager of a popular pub in Westminster, heading up a 20-strong team and achieving sales of over £1 million a year. Lisa said: “I had been working away from Plymouth for more than 15 years and last summer felt the time was right to come home. I loved my last job managing a busy pub with a substantial food offering overlooking the Thames in Westminster, but it was a 24 hours a day, seven days a week commitment. “During the time as manager I was proud to increase sales by a third, but I was really missing my family and friends back in Plymouth. It was time for a new challenge.” Lisa worked in retail after leaving school in Southway including a spell on cruise liners, followed by a spell back packing in Australia and Thailand. “One of the passengers I met while working on the cruise liners ran a chain of pubs in Hertfordshire and when I returned to the UK I joined them as manager of a foodled pub restaurant. “It was a busy venue with lots of functions, including family gatherings and weddings for up to 300 people. It was great experience.” After four years in Hertfordshire she moved to London to work with Young’s Brewery, but after six years in the capital decided to move back to Plymouth. ““I was considering what I wanted to do next, but a friend saw the post of events and catering manager at Albion advertised and I decided to apply. I was delighted to get the job, “ said Lisa. “I was immediately struck by the fantastic team spirit here. It’s just like one big family. All the team including our regular supporters have welcomed me into the club. Considering the only thing I know about rugby is that the ball must go backwards and tries can be converted, everyone has been very patient, ’’ she added. “But I love the match day atmosphere. Unfortunately I don’t get to see the games as I am far too busy making sure our customers are being well looked after.” Lisa’s challenge is to maximise the off-field income, not only on match days but also throughout the rest of the year.

women at work

lisa sets her boosting fortunes off “We have fantastic hospitality and catering facilities here and I want to ensure that the club derives as much revenue as possible from the off-field activities. “With little more than a dozen matches at Brickfields each season, income from functions and meetings is vital to the financial stability of the club.” Since joining the club Lisa has worked on introducing best practices and routines as well as improving efficiency. She has also overseen the installation of a new hi-tech epos till system. “There have been lots of challenges, but I have been given lots of freedom to put my own mark on the catering and hospitality facilities.” On match days Lisa is responsible for ensuring all the catering and hospitality runs smoothly. She has a a small full-time team, including two chefs, but on match day is responsible for a team of more than 50 staff who prepare and serve food and drinks. “We served 900 meals at the recent home game against league leaders London Welsh, which is a fantastic effort by a relatively small catering team,” said Lisa. There are extensive facilities for conferences, meetings and special events at Albion catering for groups from 20 to 250. The Midas Marquee, home of the popular Diamond Business Club on matchdays, can accommodate 250 people, the East Stand Suite 100 and the Acronym Suite up to 60. We are an ideal location for all sorts of corporate and private functions and have always been popular as a venue

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Lisa Sutcliffe oversees all the events and catering functions at Plymouth Albion’s Brickfields stadium

sights on albion’s the pitch

for family occasions and parties – and even school proms,” she added. “We are also particularly popular for weddings. “The club is fully licensed for the celebration of civil weddings and civil partnership ceremonies and can accommodate from 20 to 300 wedding guests. We host more than 50 weddings a year and our ‘ultimate wedding package’ is a real favourite. “Priced at £3,000 this includes welcome drinks, three course meal, toasts, chair covers & sashes for 50 guests, plus an evening buffet celebration for 100 guests, plus all the trimmings. “We’d love to hear from anyone who is looking for a venue for their event, especially as it would help boost Albion’s fortunes in the future.” She said the whole team at Brickfields was looking forward to hosting the spectacular Royal Marines summer celebration in July. The four night visual and musical extravaganza will mark the 350th anniversary of the formation of the Royal Marines. The RM350 South West Proms takes place between July 16 and July 19 and is expected to attract up to 20,000 people. Tickets, which are discounted for local people and serving and former Royal

Marines, are already on sale at the Plymouth Albion website. For more information on RM350 South West Proms and hospitality and conference facilities at Plymouth Albion call 01752 565064 or visit the website at www. plymouthalbion.com Albion’s remaining home fixtures: Friday Feb 28 v Nottingham; Saturday March 29 v Cornish Pirates Saturday April 19 v Ealing

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plymouth matters

£4000

boost for three local charities Three local charities have received a much needed boost to their funds thanks to the Duke of Cornwall Hotel.

Jon Morcom pictured with (from left) Kay O’Shaughnessy of Friends and Families of Special Children, Leila Nottage of Jeremiah’s Journey and Lorna Damella of St Luke’s Hospice

To mark the 150th anniversary of the iconic hotel last year, a series of special events were arranged with the proceeds raised for the benefit of Plymouth charities Jeremiah’s Journey, St Luke’s Hospice and the Friends and Families of Special Children.

the hotel it was important for us to give something back to Plymouth and especially to some very special charities particularly close to our hearts.”

A total of £4000 was raised during the year and a special cheque presentation took place at the hotel recently. Jon Morcom, director of the Duke of Cornwall said: “In such a significant year for

Walter Combstock, managing director said: “We would like to thank all of our team at the Duke for embracing our 150th Anniversary. They were behind all of the ideas for the events and helped us to pick the three local charities; the whole year really has been a team effort.” The team raised the money in a variety of ways from hosting a Beatles tribute band, tea dance and Big Band night, to raising awareness of each charity by engaging with guests. The hotel also offered an exclusive experience to take ‘Tea at the Top’ in the stunning tower with panoramic views of the city and Sound. Leila Nottage, fundraising, PR and communications manager for Jeremiah’s Journey said: “We are so thankful to everyone at the Duke of Cornwall for their support. Sadly we have more and more local families who need our help when going through a difficult and often traumatic time in their lives. The money raised will make a real and significant difference.” Lorna Damella, corporate fundraiser for St Luke’s Hospice added: “St Luke’s would like to thank everyone at the Duke of Cornwall for choosing us as one of their nominated charities for 2013. “It’s great to have the support of local businesses and we really appreciate all of the hard work they have put in to raise over £4000 in the 12 months. The fantastic amount they have raised for us will help provide end of life care to those who need us most in our local community.” Kay O’Shaughnessy, chair of trustees for Friends and Families of Special Children said: “We are hugely grateful to Jon, Walter and all of the staff at the Duke for their continued support. “The money raised during the Duke’s anniversary year is a big boost for us and we are planning to use it on a music therapy project for our families. As a very small local charity we rely heavily on local support.” Asides from raising crucial funds the hotel also hosts charity Balls and supports the community as much as they can, this year they continue to mark historical events. Jon Morcom said that the hotel planned to continue to support the three charities in 2014 with a programme of regular events. In August the hotel is hosting the centenary of the farewell meal and overnight stay at the hotel by Sir Ernest Shackleton before sailing from Millbay dock with the Imperial Trans Antarctic Expedition, aboard ‘Endurance.’ For further information about forthcoming events contact the Duke of Cornwall on 01752 275850 or visit www.thedukeofcornwall.co.uk

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Advertorial

Thank you Foot Solutions! Helping to run a busy farm and holiday letting business in Cornwall keeps Rachel Attfield extremely busy – and on her feet for hours on end.

help me, so I decided to visit their shop in Plymouth. “When I walked into Foot Solutions the pain was unbearable. A helpful and knowledgeable member of staff assessed my situation, carried out a range of tests and scans and recommended that custom-made arch supports would help the situation.

For the last five years this has been increasingly painful for Rachel as she suffers from a condition called Morton’s Neuroma, which affects one of the nerves between the toes.

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Her GP arranged for Rachel to see a podiatrist but with no let up in the pain she was then referred to a consultant in Plymouth.

Rachel Attfield

While surgery can be a solution, the consultant recommended that Rachel continue to receive treatment from the podiatrist.

“My partner’s brother suggested that Foot Solutions might be able to help me. I had an open mind about whether or not they could

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Life was going really well for Ross Kitto from Plympton. His company, Majestic Cleaning was thriving, his wife Kate had just given up her job to help run the busy business and they had two beautiful young daughters. Then in May last year Ross was given the devastating news that he had testicular cancer. Ross, who was 37 at the time he was diagnosed, said: “One day I noticed a lump. It didn’t go away, but got bigger and then started to ache. Kate persuaded me to go to my GP, who immediately sent me for a scan.

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Ross suffered a number of side effects from the treatment, including shingles, and was off work for six months. “Obviously I was devastated to be diagnosed with cancer, but the support I received from family, friends and customers was so encouraging,” he added. “The medical team and my consultant at Derriford were superb and nurses and staff at the Mustard Tree Macmillan Centre were fantastic.” Ross eventually returned to full time work in January this year - and the business has been flat out ever since. “I used to go to the gym regularly which I’m sure helped Ross Kitto of Majestic Cleaning me with my recovery. I’m keeping pretty fit now with lots of work on.” Ross and Kate have decided to contribute 10 per cent of their profits from the business to Macmillan Cancer Support by way of thanks for the support they received. “It’s the least we can do,” said Ross. “I would urge every male between the ages of 18 and 40 to check themselves regularly.”

CND NAILS FACIALS

“It confirmed my worst fears and within three days I underwent surgery and then chemotherapy as it was a particularly aggressive form of cancer,” said Ross.

Despite the setback, Majestic Cleaning will celebrate its fifth anniversary this year and Ross is looking forward to serving new and existing customers in the year ahead. Ross grew up in Plymouth and gained a business management degree after leaving school and then worked in management for Sainsbury’s for a number of years. A career change saw him become an estate agent and he ran the branch of a Plymouth agency for four years. His experience led to him then being appointed as regional sales manager for a leading supplier of building products and equipment. An injury sustained at work eventually led to him being made redundant on medical grounds and Ross had to undergo extensive surgery on his knee. While recovering, his wife Kate decided to get a carpet in their home cleaned. “The guy was only here for about 30 minutes and charged about £100,” said Ross. “And he didn’t do a particularly good job either.”

Family man... Ross Kitto with his wife Kate and daughters Poppy and Maisy

his cleaning track setback It sparked a business idea for Ross who was determined to ensure he offered a better service than the man who cleaned his carpet. Ross contacted the leading industry body the National Carpet Cleaners Association and underwent extensive training to qualify as a member. He has since undergone further training to become an advanced member of the NCCA with specialist knowledge in spot and stain treatment and removal. He is one of only a few professionals with this qualification in Devon, Somerset and Cornwall and is also approved by the WoolSafe organisation. Majestic Cleaning specialise in cleaning and removing stains from carpets, rugs, upholstery and leather, working with domestic and commercial customers. It also offers marine cleaning, which requires specialist knowledge and equipment.

Majestic Cleaning is also approved by the Buy With Confidence scheme, which is operated by Trading Standards. Ross said: “We also carry full public liability insurance so customers can have total confidence in our service.” Majestic Cleaning also offer a free no-obligation estimate Testimonials on the Buy With Confidence website underline the quality of the service Ross offers:

“We have cleaned four super yachts to date - one of them a 36 metre luxury vessel worth £38 million,” said Ross.

“Absolutely delighted with the service provided in every respect. Carpets now look like new. “

Ross focused his business in the South Hams initially but now has a growing number of satisfied customers in the Plymouth area as well as West Devon and South East Cornwall.

“Very polite and excellent results. Would recommend to anyone.”

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For more information call Majestic Cleaning on 01752 242899 or 07725 998818. Website www.majesticcleaningsw.co.uk

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Advertorial

Steve Jones joins C Cross Keys’ three branches

One of Plymouth’s bestknown property professional has joined Cross Keys Estates as an equity partner. Steve Jones has more than 35 years’ experience in residential property sales and lettings and is one of the most respected figures in the Plymouth property scene. He joined Jack Merriott and Craig Duncan as a fellow director of Cross Keys on February 17 and will be based at its recently-opened Mannamead office. Steve said: “I worked with Jack and Craig when I was with Bradford & Bingley and have known them for many years. “I am delighted to be joining them at this exciting time in the growth and development of Cross Keys. “I have seen them establish Cross Keys as a respected and professional business in Plymouth and share their passion for quality and outstanding customer service.

Mannamead Office

“I admire their business model and enjoy their refreshingly positive approach to business. “I am looking forward to working with Jack and Craig and the rest of the team in seeing the business develop and grow further in the years ahead. “With the exception of a brief period when I was based in East Devon, I have spent all of my working life in Plymouth and as a result have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the local market.”

Stoke Office

Steve lives with his wife and two children in Mannamead, a few minutes from the Cross Keys branch. Jack Merriott said: “With the rapid growth of Cross Keys over the last 12 months we have seen the potential to further develop the business. “Steve’s experience and reputation are unrivalled in the city and we are thrilled that he has joined us as an equity partner. “He not only has vast experience in residential sales, but also lettings and is qualified as an auctioneer.” Steve, who is 53, started his career as an estate agent in 1978 and within a couple

Steve Jones (left) pictured with Jack Merriott and Craig Duncan

of years had started his own estate agency. He became a Fellow of the National Association of Estate Agents and ran his business in partnership with a chartered surveyor for more than 10 years. When the recession of 1992 hit the property market Steve took a management post with the Black Horse Agency in Mutley and oversaw what became the largest residential Black Horse branch in the UK. He was then appointed as area manager with responsibility for several branches in Plymouth. It was while Steve was at Black Horse that he first worked with Craig Duncan, who was a mortgage advisor with the company. Black Horse was acquired by Bradford & Bingley and it was while Steve was based at the Stoke office that Jack joined the company as a sales negotiator. Following Bradford & Bingley’s acquisition by Countrywide Steve was appointed as a regional director responsible for 12

First Time Buyers Centre

Stoke Office 01752 500099 Mannamead Office 01752 500018 First Time Buyers Centre 01752 500099 12

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Advertorial

Cross Keys Estates Over the last decade Cross Keys has established an enviable reputation for the quality of its customer service. Glowing customer testimonials on the national website www.allAgents.co.uk places Cross Keys among the top 70 estate agents out of nearly 12,000 in the UK.

Distinctively stylish interiors

Having established a strong presence over the last 10 years in the Stoke, Milehouse, Keyham and Ford area, Cross Keys Estates last year year opened a first time buyers centre - ironically in the former Bradford & Bingley branch office at the junction of Milehouse Road and Devonport Road. In September last year Cross Keys unveiled their impressive new branch at Cherry Tree House on Mannamead Road. With the addition of the two new branches Cross Keys now covers all sectors of the market not only across the whole of Plymouth, but also into South East Cornwall, the South Hams and further afield. The appointment of Steve Jones as a director and equity partner is the latest move by Jack and Craig to strengthen and enlarge their team.

branches and 60 staff in East Devon. Following a restructuring in Countrywide Steve was able to take voluntary redundancy and for the last five years was director and general manager at Property Links in Plymouth. “It was an exciting time at Property Links and I really enjoyed my time with them. I was responsible for the lettings side of the business and like to think that I played a part in Property Links becoming one of the largest residential letting agents in the city. “It was a difficult decision to leave Property Links, but I felt the opportunity to join Cross Keys was too good to miss,” added Steve, who, as well as being a Fellow of the National Association of Estate Agents, is a Member of the Association of Residential Letting Agents. After leaving the Bradford & Bingley office in Stoke, Jack and Craig founded Cross Keys Estates in Stoke Village in August 2003.

Mannamead Office interior

Bev Green and Rob Down have been joined at the Stoke office by sales negotiator Jon Curtis and apprentice Aimee Mitchell, while Craig’s daughter and son Rachel and Tom also work part-time in the business. The Mannamead branch also benefits from part-time input from Kerry Parsons as well as providing a base for financial advisors MFS Partners, led by Peter Nixon and Sarah Millman. Jack added: “We are now in a position to meet the needs of clients in all parts of the market and in all parts of the city and beyond.

Stoke Office interior

“We have had a fantastically busy start to 2014 with a record number of instructions received in January, which has continued into February with a new record for the number of instructions in one week.” Craig added: “We feel extremely positive about the prospects for the Plymouth property market in the year ahead and beyond and believe we are perfectly placed to make the most of the growing optimism among homeowners.”

First Time Buyer Centre interior

• Three offices across Plymouth • No tie-in contract • See our customer reviews on AllAgents.co.uk the plymouth magazine

food matters

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THE LOUNGE FUNTION ROOM Available to hire throughout the day or evening, from engagement partys to corporate ‘get togethers’ the Lounge is perfectly located within the city centre with ample parking and our funtions manager is on hand to assist in helping make your event the talk of the town! Catherine Street, Royal Parade, Plymouth, Devon PL1 2AD Tel 0 1752 672121 | www thetreasurybar co uk

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cauliflower biryani Serves 4 Preparation time 15 minutes Cook 50 minutess Oil for frying, eg. rapeseed 2 onions, thinly sliced 2 tbsp medium hot curry powder (less if you prefer it milder) 2x 400g tins chopped tomatoes 10 cardamom pods 200g brown basmati rice, rinsed well & drained 1 large cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets 200ml fat-free yogurt, plus extra to serve 2 large garlic cloves, crushed 50g piece fresh ginger, peeled & grated 2 tsp cumin seeds; 1 tsp turmeric 1 tsp garam masala; 50g fresh coriander 4 tbsp flaked almonds, toasted in a dry frying pan until golden fried onions to garnish (for sinners) Preheat the oven to 190˚C. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large pan. Fry the onion on a low heat for approx 10 mins, until soft and translucent, without colouring. Add the curry powder, tinned tomatoes, cardamom pods, rice and 600ml water. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 25 mins, or until the rice is tender. While the rice is cooking, toss the cauli with the yogurt, garlic, ginger, cumin seeds, turmeric, garam masala and half the coriander leaves in a baking dish. Roast until the cauli is just tender but still with some bite, approx 20-30 mins, depending on how small you’ve cut the florets. Remove from the oven and stir in the cooked rice and half the almonds. Cover with foil and bake for a further 15 mins. Serve sprinkled with the rest of the almonds, coriander leaves, crispy fried onions if using (see note below) and a dollop of extra yogurt. Finely slice 1 large onion. Deep fry at 180˚C (use a deep fat fryer for safety), for approx 2-3 mins, until golden, then scatter over the dish. You could use whole yogurt instead of fat-free.

For more information and recipes visit www.riverford.co.uk call Ian + Emma on 01752 790703

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THE DOLPHIN HOUSE BRAZZERIE Real food, Real welcome... An Exciting Collaboration of Talent that aims to bring you a Memorable Dining Experience. We offer a Warm Welcome, expect to provide Great Service and Excellent Food. Restaurant Café-Bar Menu Express Lunch Executive Breakfasts Sunday Lunch

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Cirtificate of excellence

busy ben serving up

new ideas.. Entrepreneur Ben Shearn has been blazing a catering trail in Plymouth for more than 20 years - and he’s always keen to introduce new concepts. At the age of just 19, the former Sainsbury’s management trainee launched Bites, a bespoke coffee and sandwich bar on the Barbican. That was way back in 1992 when, as Ben says, ‘very few people knew the difference between an espresso and a cappuccino.’ Soon after he opened another venue in North Hill and was also the driving force behind the outdoor cafe culture on the Barbican, leasing Quay road and providing the glass screens and giant umbrellas. He has created a range of different catering establishments across the city ever since. With a string of successes behind him - including Bites, Bacaro, the B-Bar and the Watering Hole - Ben made an even bigger mark when he launched the Treasury Cafe Bar and Restaurant in the heart of the city centre. Formerly a police courtroom and later the City Treasury - hence the name - the iconic building dates back to 1874.

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Occupied at one time by BBC Radio Devon and an opticians, it had stood empty for 10 years when Ben took on the lease. Today The Treasury is a well-established venue appealing to a wide range of customers, serving breakfast from 8.30am, lunches, afternoon tea, pre theatre cocktails, evening meals and late night drinking. Naturally, coffee is served all day, every day. The Treasury was the first cafe-bar to open from breakfast until 2am and the first over-21s venue. Ben had to challenge the licensing authorities who eventually gave The Treasury permission to make cocktails by pouring spirits from bottles straight into the glass, something previously not experienced in the city.

eat well

The Treasury’s stylish surroundings attract a complete cross-section of customers including business people, shoppers and theatregoers.

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Food and drinks are served all day and Ben is passionate about local procurement and much of the produce, beers, wines and spirits come from within 20 miles of the bar. “We have some brilliant producers in the South West and we have some incredible local beers from Dartmoor (Blueberry Beer) and the north coast of Cornwall (Rebel Brewery), wines from Devon (Pebblebed) and spirits such as Tarquins Gin from Cornwall too,” said Ben.

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Treasury chefs Dan and Max with a selection from the new ‘grazing’ menu

Dining at The Treasury offers a modern and imaginative mix with a contemporary twist to many of the dishes. A selection of lighter options and sandwiches are available for lunch while the a la carte menu features starters from £3.95, mains from £8.95 and a selection of desserts from £4.95

Keen to capitalise on changing trends, Ben recently introduced a grazing menu giving diners the chance to choose from a mouth-watering selection of dishes from around the world. Priced at £12 for any three dishes it is proving particular popular with evening customers who want to share dishes while they drink and socialise. The Treasury also has a programme of special events, including live music, art exhibitions and much more, in fact there’s always something going on!

is still tasty

food matters

The Treasury’s Ben Shearn serving up one of his favourite local brews

The exclusive function lounge on the first floor is an intimate self-contained bar available to hire for special occasions, such as weddings, birthday parties and corporate meetings its proving very popular for engagement parties recently too. Ben also runs an outside catering business and events service. He provides catering for a growing number of private and public sector organisations and events in the city, including the University of Plymouth where he has provided the hospitality and catering for recent Royal visits. During a visit by Princess Anne he was required to provide afternoon tea and on discovering that Her Royal Highness was particularly partial to cheese, arranged for a selection of Devon cheeses to whet her appetite. She enjoyed his choice so much that she insisted on finishing everything - making her 20 minutes late for her next appointment in the city! At the age of 40 Ben remains one of the busiest business people in the city. Aside from his catering interests he is also chair of the Association of Barbican Businesses, director of the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership and a trustee of

Jeremiah’s Journey. Ben also finds time for mountain climbing for charity, helping to raise over £100,000 for St Luke’s Hospice last year by climbing Killimanjaro. He also undertook the Arctic Jubilee expedition for Jeremiah’s Journey, scaling seven mountains in the British Empire mountain range located between the geographic north pole and magnetic north pole and has also climbed Kalapattar and Everest base camp in the Himalayas as well as Mount Sinai in Egypt. The Treasury, Catherine Street, Royal Parade, Plymouth Tel 01752 672121 www.thetreasurybar.co.uk

the plymouth magazine

The cast of See How They Run, which is at the Theatre Royal in April are all under four feet tall

theatres & shows

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

It’s party time again as the legendary That’ll Be The Day, the nation’s favourite variety show returns with another opportunity to see its latest production. This hugely entertaining rock ‘n’ roll spectacular features a fantastic line up of knock-out hits from the 1950’s, 60’s and 70’s, plus loads more zany comedy routines.

Until Mar 15 The Lion King

Mar 25 to Mar 29 Welsh National Opera

Theatre Royal – The Lyric

Only single tickets still available at time of going to press. Mar 19 to Mar 22 The Prince of the Pagodas

Performed by Birmingham Royal Ballet, the Prince of the Pagodas is a classic story that celebrates the power of family love. Spectacular costumes and designs from War Horse designer Rae Smith bring to life the elegance and beauty of the Chrysanthemum Kingdom and capture our imagination in this fantastical journey through the elements.

struggling to understand life in the midst of a mid-life crisis, while Sylvia has been married to Joe since she was 20… and been bored since she was 21! Helen, a widow, is trying to take one day at a time; it’s just that sometimes, several days attack her at once.

Mar 23 That’ll Be The Day

Apr 4 and Apr 5 Boxe Boxe

Performances of Verdi’s La Traviata and new productions of Puccini’s Manon Lescaut and Henze’s Boulevard Solitude are featured during WNO’s visit to the city. Apr 1 Hot Flush!

The naughtiest musical in town! Share in the friendships, the secrets, the laughs, the tears and the ups and downs of four ordinary women – and one man – living extraordinary lives Meet Myra, a successful divorce barrister whose rat of a husband has left her for a “blonde bimbo”. Jessica’s

France’s Compagnie Käfig return to the UK with Boxe Boxe, a breath-taking show which fuses the noble art of boxing with dance. Eight exceptional dancers blend martial arts, street and contemporary dance to create a spirited and stunning fusion of hip-hop and fisticuffs which has dazzled audiences the world over. Apr 7 to Apr 12 Priscilla Queen of the Desert: The Musical

Direct from the West End and starring Jason Donovan, the feelgood international hit sensation is coming to Plymouth. Winner of four WhatsOnStage.com awards, including Best New Musical, and based on the smash-hit movie, Priscilla is the

heartwarming, uplifting adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus searching for love and friendship and end up finding more than they had ever dreamed of. Apr 13 Morecambe

This unmissable brand new production of the Olivier Award winning play, stars Bob Golding as comedy icon, Eric Morecambe. The show is a heart-

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what’s on?

in a hydrogen filled balloon. Their aim was to explore new lands, to map the undiscovered Arctic and to plant the flag of Sweden at the pole. At 2.30pm on the 11th July they cut the anchor lines and floated up into the cold arctic air. They were never seen alive again… Using an international cast, storytelling, physical theatre and live music, award winning New International Encounter (NIE) invite you to join them for an exhilarating journey into one of the world’s last great wilderness areas. Mar 20 to Apr 5 Mad Man

warming, tear-jerking, laughter-inducing story of the man what brought us the sunshine. Apr 14 to Apr 19 See How They Run

A comedy of small proportions. Like nothing you’ve ever seen before! This wonderfully funny and much loved farce is brought to life on stage once again – this time with a difference. It still features hilarious comic situations involving mistaken identity, doors and vicars, set in the village of Merton-cumMiddlewick, but the comedy will be heightened by the fact that the cast are all under four feet tall!

Apr 30 to May 3 Lord of the Flies

Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures has created some of the most successful shows of the last 25 years, including Swan Lake, Nutcracker! and the sell-out hit, Sleeping Beauty. Now the company unites a cast of New Adventures dancers with remarkable young talent from the South West, in an extraordinary adaptation of William Golding’s classic novel, Lord of the Flies choreographed by Olivier nominated Scott Ambler. As the schoolboys find themselves abandoned in a deserted theatre, Golding’s legendary characters are brought to life with raw energy, emotional intensity and breathtaking performances. Civilisation crumbles and the rulebook is forgotten as the story builds to an electrifying climax. Chilling, beautiful and hugely entertaining, Lord of the Flies will enthral Bourne fans and inspire a generation of new audiences.

Chris Goode’s dizzying new adaptation of Gogol’s Diary of a Madman retains all of the original story’s timeless capacity to startle, confound, disturb and delight. Boasting an extraordinary orchestral score and featuring an unforgettable lead performance by the award-winning Lucy Ellinson, Mad Man is a bleakly beautiful and relentlessly gripping journey into a world spiraling out of control. Produced by Theatre Royal Plymouth, Mad Man follows the recent success of Solid Air, Forever House and The Astronaut’s Chair. Lead artist

Chris Goode’s previous productions in Plymouth include King Pelican, Monkey Bars and Keep Breathing. Suitable for aged 16+ Apr 8 to Apr 12 The Owl and the Pussycat’s Treasury of Nonsense

Inspired by the runcible works of Edward Lear, Soap Soup Theatre present another feast for the eyes, ears and imagination. With their delightfully unpredictable story telling style, beautiful puppetry, and immersive soundscapes, they round up a collection of nonsense and fun, bigger and better than ever before! Soap Soup return to the Theatre Royal Plymouth following the success of Little Red Riding Hood in summer 2013. Apr 29 to May 3 Connections Festival 2014

Theatre Royal Plymouth is once again taking part and hosting National Theatre Connections. Each year the National Theatre asks ten writers to create new plays for performance by

Drum Theatre Royal Parade Plymouth Box Office 01752 267222

Feb 21 to Mar 8 The Believers

Apr 21 to Apr 26 Dreamboats and Petticoats

The smash hit musical direct from the West End. Dreamboats and Petticoats The Musical features classic tracks from Roy Orbison, The Shadows, Eddie Cochran, Billy Fury, and many more, including Let’s Dance, To Know Him Is To Love Him, Shaking All Over, Bobby’s Girl, Runaround Sue, Let’s Twist Again and many more!

Two families are flung together on a night of cataclysmic weather. Bruised, tired and seduced by the flow of alcohol, they wrestle with their differences until, suddenly, the unthinkable happens. Something unbelievable. As their versions of what happened begin to fall apart and their perspectives become clouded by suspicion, they turn on each other in a desperate fight to understand the truth. Mar 11 to Mar 15 North North North

Three men, one balloon, and a legendary attempt to reach the North Pole…In 1897 three Swedish adventurers headed for the North Pole the plymouth magazine

Comedian Craig Campbell returns to the B-Bar on April 23

theatres & shows young theatre companies. The Theatre Royal Plymouth will be hosting Brannel Theatre Company, Churston Ferrers Grammar School, Cornwall College, Court Fields Community School, Fowey Community College, KPAC at KEVICC, Stage by Stage, Theatre Royal Plymouth Young Company, Young and Unique Theatre Company and Callington Community College who will between them be performing The Wardrobe, Angels, Pronoun and Heritage.

Barbican Theatre Castle Street, Plymouth Box Office: 01752 267131

Mar 1 New Model Theatre: Static

After a successful run at the Edinburgh Fringe, New Model Theatre bring their critically acclaimed show Static to Plymouth. Static brings together brilliant

storytelling with verbatim news reports to tell a coming of age story that spans a decade. From watching the World Trade Centre fall live on television to the top of Tory HQ in 2010â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s summer of discontent; through talking to girls at drunken teenage parties and coming home with bloody noses. Part of Flourish 2014. Mar 7 James Wilton Dance: Last Man Standing

Last Man Standing is dance driven by unparalleled energy and athleticism, performed by world class dancers. A hotly anticipated new work from rising star, James Wilton. Renown for exhilarating choreography his work draws on martial arts, break dancing and capoeira to create raw, earthy and ground-breaking performance. Last Man Standing is commissioned by Dance City with support from Plymouth Dance, Falmouth University and Arts Council England, Grants for the Arts. Mar 19 to Mar 22 Boogie Nights

Plymkids Youth Company present their latest production at the Barbican Theatre

Mar 28 Avante Garde: The Black Album

Presented by Avant Garde Dance, this exceptional triple bill features three distinctly different hip hop choreographies are seamlessly woven together like a concept album. The Black Album is music inspired dance.

May 9 Imperanence Dance Theatre

Experience a new way to listen to dance and a new way to watch music. Impermanence are developing a unique strain of dance theatre; the movement draws on a combination of technique and theatricality, mixed with live music.

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Bathrooms & Kitchens

what’s on?

and performed using the company’s own distinctive practice, the performers decide the structure of the work live in the moment of performance - meaning that each performance is completely unique!

concert tour. Each song stripped back desolate, naked and sensual.

May 23 to May 25 Le Navet Bete: Extravaganza

Mar 6 This Calamity and Tim Cresswell

Join David, Keith, Hans and Romano on a quest to tell their individual stories and impose their so called cultural offerings on to an audience. A madcap show full of acrobatics, improvisation, live music, audience participation, circus history and a unicycle on fire... Suitable for the whole family, but remember...the clown can get away with murder.

May 17 ‘The Crutch’ and ‘The Buttercup’

Seeking the extraordinary in all things ordinary and delivering original dance theatre across the UK and beyond, the Karla Shacklock Company present ‘The Crutch’ and ‘The Buttercup’. Created

B-Bar at the Barbican Theatre Castle Street, Plymouth 01752 242021 www.b-bar.co.uk

Mar 2 Keith James performs Leonard Cohen

Keith James performs the songs of Leonard Cohen on his acclaimed

Mar 5, Apr 2 Comedy Night

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

Double headline night featuring two great local acts who reinvigorate the idea of singer/songwriter with their own unique brand of music. Mar 7, Apr 4 Hamer & Co

Chris Woods Groove is a study in guitar, making unbelievable sounds out of that most iconic of instruments. Lukas Drinkwater is a renowned session musician with a long list of credits to his name. Mar 14 Andrew Lawrence

As seen on BBC1’s Live At The Apollo, star of his own BBC Radio 4 series How Did We End Up Like This? Andrew Lawrence presents his latest stand-up show of all new material. This show is being staged in the Barbican Theatre Auditorium.

Experienced guitar-players Rich and Frank Hamer perform their own unique brand of music, blending everything from hot to cool jazz.

Mar 14 Dan Walsh

Mar 12, Mar 26, Apr 9, Apr 23 Café Acoustica

Mar 21 Lost in Space

Fortnightly showcase of unplugged talent, hosted by singer-songwriter Jessie Mullen. Mar 13 Chris Woods Grove and Lukas Drinkwater

Two extremely talented young musicians

Touted as one of the finest banjo players in the UK as well as being a superb singer, songwriter and guitarist.

Seven piece party band. Mar 28 Hot Club of Stonehouse

As the name suggests this band brings the easy pleasure of 30s jazz to the cobbled stones of Plymouth.

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Spectacular performance from Tap Factory at the Pavilions in April

theatres & shows Mar 27, Apr 24 Thomas Ford

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Apr 3 Josie Lloyd

Apr 10 Rita Hocking

Northern California’s own Rita Hosking sings of forest fires, culture clash, demolition derbies, the working class and hope. From major U.S. festivals to Bob Harris’s BBC show, Rita is moving audiences around the globe with her stories in song and doubly sweet and sinewy voice. Apr 11 Swingology

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Swingology perform gypsy swing in the style of guitar legend Django Reinhardt. The swinging guitars and soaring clarinet solos are evocative of the soundtrack to 1940s Paris. Apr 16 Rhymewarp with Mama Tokus

Mama Tokus will be performing her own funky and funny compositions as well as selecting a few of the best poets and writers to perform at each Rhymewarp event.

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Apr 17 Malcolm Holcombe

Born and raised in the Blue Ridge mountains of North Carolina, Malcolm Holcombe is being recognized by the contemporary U.S and European folk/ americana community as a performer of national stature, and an uncommonly unique guitarist/vocalist. Apr 23 Craig Campbell

Comedian Craig Campbell returns on the tour of his Edinburgh show. Tolstoy this is not, it’s vintage Campbell, bold and brash with a dash of sass. Apr 25 Will McNichol

Will McNicol who has performed some breathtaking concerts in Plymouth in past years returns as part of his ‘Put Your Feet Up’ tour and celebrate the release of his limited edition EP of the same name.

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

Mar 4 and Mar 5 Miranda Hart

The award winning Queen of comedy Miranda Hart is on stage doing stand up for the first time since her hit series Miranda aired on the BBC. Mar 7 Brendan Cole: Licence to Thril

Brendan is once again set to dazzle audiences across the UK with his current show, Licence to Thrill. Join him and his cast of 20 musicians and dancers as they take you on a musical journey of music and dance in this spectacular night of entertainment. Mar 8 Russell Brand: Messiah Complex

Russell Brand has added this extra Plymouth date to his Messiah Complex tour, so if you missed out on tickets for in October, snap them up while you can! Mar 9 Richard and Adam

Sensational Welsh singing brothers Richard and Adam, bring their remarkable harmonies to Plymouth, as they embark on their very first UK tour with very special guest Charlotte Jaconelli of Jonathan and Charlotte. Mar 10 The Australian Pink Floyd Show

Following on from their enormously successful 2013 dates, this even bigger UK tour will see that band bringing their meticulously crafted show to an evergrowing audience. Mar 21 Rumours of Fleetwood Mac 2014

Having performed 500 major concert shows to over a half a million fans around the world since they formed over a decade ago, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

what’s on?

Apr 12 Susan Boyle in Concert

return to the UK to present a spectacular new stage production. Mar 22 Mary Black - Clannad

Performing both separate sets and together, this unique concert is one not to be missed. Clannad, the Irish family group recently celebrated their 40th career anniversary. Their music entwines the traditional and the modern, past and future with stunningly beautiful results. Mary Black has been a dominant presence in Irish music, both at home and abroad for more than 25 years. Mar 29 South West Property Show

With representatives available across a broad spectrum of property related matters, this unique and exciting show offers a one stop property experience. Offering a wealth of advice, insight, inspiration, solutions and opportunity to make property aspirations a reality. Free entry. Apr 2 You Me At Six 2014

Following a tour with Thirty Seconds To Mars where they played to an amazing 250,000 people in Europe and the UK, this will be their first UK headlining tour since they played a tremendous sold out show at Wembley almost a year ago. You Me At Six have already sold 400,000 albums worldwide, with 2011s ‘Sinners Never Sleep’ reaching No 3 in the UK Album Charts and each release going gold. With support from Don Broco and Young Kato.

After a sell out Scottish Tour in the summer of 2013, global singing sensation Susan Boyle is returning to the stage in her very first nationwide live tour. The show will featurer songs including the now legendary ‘I Dreamed A Dream’, ‘Wild Horses’ and ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ as well as ‘River Deep, Mountain High’, one of her all time favourites, plus a host of spectacular surprises on the night.

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Apr 25 Tap Factory 2014

Tap Dance at its stomping best! Theatre Productions bring this world class show to the Pavilions. A dazzling, amazing production, showing many genres of dance, in an urban setting. Tap Factory is where ‘Stomp meets Tap Dogs!’ Their feet have a life of their own, and the rhythm never stops. This tremendously visual, and highly exciting show, features the world’s best tap dancers and international musicians as they blend the art of percussion, with dance and acrobatics. Apr 26 Rick Wakeman: Journey to the Centre of The Earth

Based on the novel by Jules Verne, which will also mark its 150th anniversary in 2014, the album is one of the rock era’s landmark achievements - a record that sold 15 million copies and rewrote the rules. Rick Wakeman and The New World Symphony Orchestra, accompanied by The English Chamber Choir and the English Rock Ensemble, will celebrate this anniversary with a state of the art, dramatic, live presentation of this epochal, classical-rock crossover work.

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Apr 10 and Apr 11 Peter Pan Easter Panto

Don’t miss another spectacular family pantomime from the same team behind last year’s brilliant Easter production of The Wizard of Oz. Featuring a star cast, including comedian Bobby Davro as Smee, impressive music, energetic dance routines, lots and lots of laughter and flying.

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what’s on?

top violinist features in plymouth symphony orchestra’s march concerts Brilliant violinist Bartosz Woroch returns to play with the Plymouth Symphony Orchestra at their concerts in Cornwall and Plymouth in March. Polish born violinist Bartosz, who performed with the orchestra last March, will play Beethoven’s much loved Violin Concerto. The masterpiece is one of Beethoven’s most joyful compositions.

The Plymouth Symphony Orchestra regularly performs challenging music, ranging from traditional to contemporary. It is one of the longest-established orchestras in the country and the present conductor, Anne Kimber, is only the sixth conductor to have taken up the baton in 138 years.

Bartosz is renowned for both solo and chamber music performances around the world and has given recitals at major venues throughout Europe. The concerto is preceded by Mozart’s popular and well-known overture to The Magic Flute. The opera was an immediate success, when premiered in 1791, with Mozart himself conducting.

The orchestra attracts many distinguished soloists, with Ralph Kirshbaum, Guy Johnston, Tasmin Little, Joanna MacGregor and Jennifer Pike amongst the most recent performers to play with the orchestra.

The Chairman Dances, ‘Foxtrot for Orchestra’ was composed by John Adams in 1985. Adams is a leading 20th century American composer, known particularly for his distinctive minimalist fusion style and this rhythmic and seductive work incorporates several dance-like tunes.

The concerts are at Liskeard Public Hall on Sunday March 23 at 5.30pm and Plymouth Guildhall on Wednesday March 26 at 7.30pm. For ticket details visit www.plymouthsymphony.co.uk. Bartosz Woroch

the plymouth magazine

The final work is Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite arranged by the composer from his original 50-minute ballet score, based on Russian folk tales of the magical glowing bird. When the ballet was first performed in 1910, it was an instant success with both audience and critics.

the plymouth magazine

what’s on?

music Mar 2 Plymouth Jazz Club

Enrico Tomasso and the Craig Milverton Trio. Enrico Tomasso, leading Louis Armstrong style trumpeter, joins Craig Milverton, Britain’s finest jazz pianist in the Oscar Peterson style, with his trio. Louis Armstrong meets Oscar Peterson. Royal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Crownhill, Plymouth. Call 01752 721179 or visit www.plymouth-jazz-club. org.uk Mar 4 Elaine Davies

The Hakka, Southside St, Plymouth Saxophone player Elaine Davies performs for a Cavitron Charity Lunch. Details from 01752 670288. Mar 8 Plymouth Clarion Choir

Roborough Methodist Church, Bickleigh Down Road, Roborough Fund raiser for the Ladies Meeting. 01752 695265.

the plymouth magazine

Mar 15 University of Plymouth Choral Society

St Andrew’s Church, Royal Parade The choir perform Haydn’s Creation. Details from Peninsula Arts Box Office, 01752 585050 www.peninsula-arts.co.uk Mar 16 Plymouth Jazz Club

Gittisham Hall Jazz Band. A fine Devonbased traditional jazz band led by Bob ManuelRoyal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Crownhill, Plymouth. Call 01752 721179 or visit www.plymouthjazz-club.org.uk Mar 26 Plymouth Symphony Orchestra

Plymouth Guildhall Conductor Anne Kimber, with violinst Bartosz Woroch. Featuring Mozart: Overture, Magic Flute Beethoven: Violin Concerto, John Adams: The Chairman Dances, Stravinsky: Suite, The Firebird (1919 version). Tickets from Vibes Music, 19 Mayflower Street, Plymouth 01752 603563 or online at www.wegottickets. com. For season tickets phone 01579 342955

Mar 27 Julian Lloyd Webber

Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Drake Circus This brilliant cellist is making a return visit to play some of his father’s (William Lloyd Webber) compositions, along with works by Rachmaninov, Bach, Fauré and Delius. Mar 27 Plymouth Clarion Choir

Plymstock Broadway Community Centre For the Ladies Meeting. Contact 01752 657556.

Apr 6 Plymouth Philharmonic Choir

Guildhall, Royal Parade, Plymouth. See panel opposite. Apr 12 Charity Concert

Emmanuel Church, Mannamead, Plymouth Peter Cigleris - clarinet, and Anthony Gray - piano Charity Concert for Parkinson’s UK & Plymouth YMCA Apr 13 Carlton Big Band

Apr 5 Saltash Ladies Choir

Royal Corinthian Yacht Club, Madeira Road, The Hoe, Plymouth. Tickets from 01752 664327.

Saltash Wesley Church For Saltash Live at Home Scheme

Apr 15 and Apr 16 Love Divine

Apr 6 Plymouth Jazz Club

The Carol Gasser Band. Saxophonist Carol Gasser, formerly of the Ivy Benson Band and the Rod Mason Band, returns to Plymouth leading her own group from Cornwall. Royal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Crownhill, Plymouth. Call 01752 721179 or visit www.plymouthjazz-club.org.uk

Sherwell United Church, Plymouth Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir, directed by Jenny George, accompanist Anne Kalas. Popular Music for Passiontide. Also at Crownhill Methodist Church, Plymouth on Apr 16. Both start at 7.30pm Apr 20 Plymouth Jazz Club

A Tribute to Trad Jazz by the Pedigree Jazz Band. Roger Marks and Chris Walker, co-leading a great band,

plymouth choir’s spring concert recreate the Barber, Ball & Bilk classics from the 50’s and 60’s. Royal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Crownhill, Plymouth. Call 01752 721179 or visit www.plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk

Plymouth Philharmonic Choir’s Christmas concert featuring the ever-popular Handel’s Messiah was a virtual sell out. For their spring concert at Plymouth Guildhall on April 6 the choir will be performing a less well-known work - Dvorak’s Stabat Mater. Conductor Christopher Fletcher said: “After the success of the Christmas concert it’s nice to do something not so well known. It’s vital for the life and future of the choir that we learn and perform pieces that are new and fresh to us and perhaps to our audience. “People may not know Dvorak’s Stabat Mater, but they are likely to be very familiar with the gorgeous melodies of his New World Symphony and Cello Concerto. This piece has similar hallmarks, with its exquisite easy lyricism.”

Pedigree Jazz Band

April 26 Elaine Davies Quartet

Abbey Hall (St. Andrew’s Minster Church Hall), Plymouth Jazz Night. Details from 01752 767558 Apr 26 Choral Concert

Church of St Peter & St Paul, Ermington Tamar Male Voice Choir in concert.

Dvorak’s Stabat Mater is traditionally seen as a reaction to the death of three of the composer’s children. These tragic events seem to have inspired this evocative musical setting of a text describing the suffering of a mother whose son is dying on the Cross. It is also a testimony of human sorrow and hope.

Soprano Catherine Hamilton is one of the soloists at the Plymouth Philharmonic Choir’s spring concert

When Dvorak’s conducted Stabat Mater in The Royal Albert Hall in 1884 he was amazed by the reaction his music evoked, later writing: ‘After each movement their fervour increased and, at the end, the clapping was so loud, I had to take several bows, again and again. The orchestra and choir were also fervent in their applause, showering me with ovations. In short, I couldn’t have wished for a better outcome.”

Apr 27 Music in the Park

Singing with the choir will be soprano Catherine Hamilton, mezzosoprano Juliet Curnow, tenor Iain Milne and baritone Darren Jeffery.

Devonport Park Bandstand Devonport Park Community Choir and the Laira Youth Band. Free

Information about tickets can be found on the Plymouth Philharmonic Choir’s website www.plymouthphilchoir.org, or by calling the booking Plymouth Philharmonic Choir’s conductor office on 01364 72429. Christopher Fletcher

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Saturdays at Ford Baptist Church Alfred Rd, Ford PL2 1QB

£5 weekly or discount for termly bookings in advance. 10% discount for siblings.

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Saturdays

1-4pm

spectacu

event to mar the 350th anniversary

royal marin The Royal Marines have announced details of a four night visual and musical extravaganza this July to mark the 350th anniversary of their formation.

A unique gallery, now open 7 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

The RM350 South West Proms will be hosted by Plymouth Albion Rugby Football Club (RFC) from Wednesday 16th to Saturday 19th July. The event agreement has been signed by both organisations and tickets for the high profile public event are now on sale.

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Scan here for more info

RM350 South West Proms is one of the main events to be held in the UK to mark the 350th anniversary and is the Royal Marines’ flagship celebration in the South West to honour the long and proud relationship they have with Plymouth. It is expected to attract more than 18,000 spectators across the four nights, bringing together the local, regional and national community alongside the Royal Marines for a spectacular and unique occasion.

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With military precision and flair, the celebration will capture the sense of occasion the Royal Marines are renowned for. The stadium will be abuzz with music and parades courtesy of over a hundred world class performers.

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Her Majesty’s Band of the Royal Marines will lead each night’s proceedings, with support from local bands and impressive military displays from the Commando

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what’s on?

Plymouth Symphony Orchestra Conductor

Anne Kimber

Leader

Paul Mathews Sponsored by

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Albion RFC has pledged the or free to the Royal Marines, he running costs, which means eds from the event will go to he Royal Navy and Royal harity and Plymouth Drake on are the chosen recipients.

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Mozart

Violin Concerto

Beethoven

Soloist: Bartosz Woroch

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, with thousands of tickets o the public. Pricing has been e occasion as accessible possible, with a 25 per cent being given to all Plymouth and Royal Marines, serving ed.

Overture, The Magic Flute

The Chairman Dances

John Adams

The Firebird (1919 version)

Stravinsky

Sunday 23rd March, 5.30pm – Liskeard Public Hall is fitting for the Royal Marines’ milestone. Plymouth Albion RFC is at the heart of the local community, having hosted a mass of Military events here, it was fitting that we were selected to host. It gives Plymouth Albion immense pleasure that this prestigious event will open their doors to people from the local community and beyond.” Tickets can be purchased online at www.plymouthalbion. com/store/tickets/event/ For news about the event, the charities benefiting, the history of the occasion, and other updates, please keep visiting the RM350 South West Proms website at www. rm350.co.uk

Major General David Hook and Plymouth Albion director Maurice West signing the event agreement contract

ticket information Tickets can be purchased from the Plymouth Albion RFC website and will be posted out. Tickets are also available to purchase from the Plymouth Albion ground. The prices are as follows: • 25 per cent discount on all tickets (excluding VIP packages) to Plymouth residents and Royal Marines, serving and retired. Discounted tickets will be subject to availability and restricted to five tickets per household • £10 – All child tickets (under 12) • £10 – Picnic on the pitch tickets (allocated picketed picnic seating area between the stage and sound/lighting booth) • £18 – East stand, standing only • £20 – North Terrace, seated but not covered • £25 – Grandstand, seated and covered.

£11.00, Concessions £10.00, Students/Children £4.00 Ticket sales: Liskeard Information Centre or on the door

Wednesday 26th March, 7.30pm – Plymouth Guildhall Balcony £16.50, Concessions £14.50 Ground Floor £15.00, Concessions £13.00, Students/Children £5.00 Ticket sales: Vibes Music, Mayflower Street, Plymouth wegottickets.com or on the door

www.plymouthsymphony.co.uk

Mount Edgcumbe, Indoors or Out?

3D Felt Workshop

Sunday 16th March - 10am to 1pm Use beautiful Merrino Wool fibres, create a unique felted purse or small bag. All materials provided. Tickets cost £20 p.p

Guided Camellia Walks 26th & 29th March - 10am to 12 noon Join the Curator of the National Camellia Collection here at Mount Edgcumbe for a conducted tour of approximately 1,000 cultivars. Tickets cost £5.00 p.p

Check www.mountedgcumbe.gov.uk for more events All tickets should be booked in advance by contacting: Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park Tel: 01752 822236 email: mt.edgcumbe@plymouth.gov.uk the plymouth magazine

what’s on?

major events League 2 Football

Mar 1 Mar 15 Mar 25 Mar 29 Apr 12 Apr 21

Argyle v Morecambe Argyle v Scunthorpe Argyle v Exeter Argyle v Chesterfield Argyle v Oxford United Argyle v AFC Wimbledon

Championship Rugby

Apr 19 Albion v Ealing British Basketball League

Mar 1 Mar 23 Apr 6 Apr 20

Raiders v Cheshire Phoenix Raiders v Worcester Wolves Raiders v Birmingham Knights Raiders v Sheffield Sharks

Feb 27 to Mar 2 Spring Fair

traders, including the very popular Dutch Flowers on Tour who will also be visitng the city with their Dutch Market Garden selling a huge array of plants, shrubs, trees and bulbs. Mar 2, Apr 6 Good Food Market

Royal William Yard The market showcases some of the best local food and drink in the South West. Visit www.royalwilliamyardnews. wordpress.com Mar 6 Fish Cookery Demo

River Cottage Canteen and Deli, Royal William Yard The cookery demo will start with making a simple Pollock Ceviche, followed by a demonstration on gutting and filleting a Mackerel and curing it ready for the hot smoker. Mar 9 Devonport Guildhall Vintage Wedding Fayre

hair and makeup demonstrations, a roaming catwalk featuring ideas and intricate wedding dresses for the most discerning bride and some vintage themed music! Devonport Guildhall will also be giving away a free ceremony to one lucky winner! Mar 23 Sporting Relief Mile

This year’s Plymouth Mile moves to The University of St Mark & St John. The course takes runners through the campus on traffic free roads taking in the stunning views across the city. This Mile is a true breath of fresh air. Entry costs are £3 for adults, £1.50 for child and £7.50 for a family. There are one mile, three mile and six mile options. Mar 29 to Apr 6 Plymouth in Fashion

Plymouth in Fashion returns this year with fashion shows in the heart of the city centre, showcasing the latest high street fashion.

City Centre The Spring Fair is set to bring a real Apr 4, May 16, Jun 13 Devonport Guildhall hosts a unique international flavour to the city centre, Live Music Night Vintage Wedding Fayre from 11am with an opportunity to buy items from The to 3pm.for Thebooking fayre will be filled(no special oﬀ Limited Spaces Available now. ersPiazza apply) all over the world. As well as tasty Live Music Night sponsored by ‘C and with wedding inspiration, including food there will be great craft and gift G Catering’ is a new concept and will bespoke wedding suppliers, fantastic

happen on a Friday evening once a month between April and October on the Piazza in Plymouth City Centre. With three local bands taking to the stage each night this show promises to be a fantastic free night out. With a bar and food available head into Plymouth City Centre and enjoy some great live music. April event features Michael Collings, Supersonic and Rusty Angels. Apr 19 St George’s Day

The Piazza Family fun party with live bands, children’s entertainment, food and ales

Peninsula Arts is… Gallery, Cinema, Talks, Music, Performance This month at Peninsula Arts: Exhibition Talks Peter Randall-Page Alice Oswald Poetry 1 February-29 March Reading 12 March

Film Last Train Home 17 March

Music Performance Words and Music Edge-Electronic Evening Festival 22-23 March of Dance 24 March

Box Office: 01752 585050

Visit our website to book tickets for our events

Web: www.peninsula-arts.co.uk E-Mail: peninsula-arts@plymouth.ac.uk 30

the plymouth magazine

Open to the public FREE Admission to the Gallery Find us Ground Floor, Roland Levinsky Building, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, PL4 8AA

free family arts and crafts day at peninsula arts Take your family to a free fun arts and crafts workshop in the inspirational setting of the Peninsula Arts Gallery in the Roland Levinsky Building in the centre of Plymouth. Peninsula Arts next workshop will take place on Saturday March 22 from 10am to 1pm. It is suitable for all ages and families of all sizes, free to attend and easy to book, by simply contacting the Box Office team on 01752 585050. Families can enjoy a fun and fascinating morning in the Gallery, surrounded by giant marble sculptures featuring in the the latest exhibition ‘New Sculpture and Works on Paper’ from Dartmoor based well-known sculptor, Peter Randall-Page, who created the famous ‘Seed’ at the Eden Project.

travelling Britain in search of wild otters, producing the book ‘Otter Country’. Twelve exceptional dancers from EDge the postgraduate company of London Contemporary Dance School, will be performing in Theatre 1 on March 24, featuring a selection from a repertoire of work by internationally renowned choreographers. Visit Peninsula Arts on the ground floor of the iconic Roland Levinsky Building opposite Drake Circus, there is free admission to the Gallery where you can also visit the Peninsula Arts Shop full of coffee table art books and bespoke artworks. To find out more visit www.peninsula-arts.co.uk or contact the Box Office on 01752 585050

Inspired by Peter Randall-Page organisers will be looking at the patterns found within nature to create art using a variety of different techniques and materials. Held in partnership with Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery the exhibition will run from February 1 to March 29 in Peninsula Arts, and from February 1 to May 10 a series of new large-scale ink drawings investigating mirror image symmetry can be seen at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery. Attend any of the family art workshops throughout the year to work with artists, learn more about art, create your own masterpieces and have fun! The arts and crafts workshop is just one highlight of a whole programme of exciting events this Spring. The Words and Music Festival 22-23 on March 22 and 23 features talented singer/ songwriter students from Plymouth University performing at The Hub, alongside a day of ‘Celebrating Shakespeare in Song’ where top composer Roxanna Panufnik will be setting the words of Shakespeare to music.

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There’s an entertaining talk on March 5 from Miriam Darlington who spent a year

Contemporary dance from EDge with Peninsula Arts on March 24

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the plymouth magazine

H o m e B a s e d Ca re r s Wa n t e d across Plymouth

what’s on?

Do you...

• Have experience in mental health and/or learning disability support work? • Have a safe, caring and supportive home for one or two vulnerable adults in a family environment? Once approved, we offer:

� Training and ongoing support � A generous allowance - usually tax free

Events at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Drake Circus

For more information please call 01752 500513 Or visit www.sharedlivessw.org.uk

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family events

6/6/2013 11:41:16 AM

The Imaginators

Admission free. Booking essential. Free, fun creative learning sessions for pre-school children and their parents/ carers. 10.30am to 11.30am or 1pm to 2pm on Wednesdays (term time only). Advance booking is essential. Call 01752 304665 to reserve your place. Wild About Plymouth

Amazing Nature Mar 22 11am to 4pm (last entries at 3.30pm) Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery Celebrating National Science and Engineering Week 2014. Drop into the Museum for as little or as long as you like and enjoy a variety of interactive sessions with scientists from across the city. Real specimens from the Museum’s natural history collections will be out on display for you to see and discover more about. Different activity tables will be full of interesting hands-on science. Admission is free. No need to book.

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01752 251 688 Or email: homestayplym@meridianenglish.com

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the plymouth magazine

Morning Call Apr 25 7am to 9.30am Ham Woods, near Ham Drive, Ham, Plymouth. £2.50 per adult £1.50 per child under 3s go free. Are you brave enough for an early start? Come with us to listen to the early morning birdsong in one of the city’s nature reserves. Experts from the University will help identify the different songs. You will also be able to look at some small mammals in the woods including shrews, mice and voles! Bring your binoculars if you have them, and wear warm clothes and sturdy shoes. Hot teas and coffees will be available. Meet us at the entrance on the corner of Tewkesbury Close and Ham Drive. Tickets available from the Museum Welcome Desk. 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.

Lent 2014: Mardi Gras Mar 8 11am, 1.30pm and 3pm Did you have pancakes on Tuesday? Did you know that what we call Pancake Day in the UK is known as Shrove Tuesday, Carnival and Mardi Gras in other parts of the world? Come in and make carnival masks and jester hats in our fun creative sessions as well as a paper pancake man to take home. Mother’s Day 2014: Marvellous Mums Mar 20 11am and 1.30pm Mother’s Day takes place on 30 March this year. Come in and make little handmade gifts to surprise your mum with on her special day. Sessions last for 60 minutes. Admission is free but donations are welcomed. Advance booking on 01752 304774. Easter: Perfect Peacocks: Apr 12 11am and 1.30pm The peacock is a beautiful bird with colourful feathers and a national symbol of India – a country that the Museum owns a number of objects from thanks to the brave female explorer, Gertrude Benham. Come in and make a paper plate peacock, a rocking peacock plus enjoy some seasonal Easter activities. Sessions last for 60 minutes. Admission is free but donations are welcomed. Advance booking on 01752 304774. Family Holiday Activities

Drop-In Workshop: Figures in Landscapes Apr 9 10.30am to 1pm (last entries at 12.30pm) Use a range of craft materials to make paper figures based on the portraits in our Laura Knight touring exhibition from the National Portrait Gallery, London. No need to book. Drop-in for as little or as long as you like. Bookable Workshop: Egyptian Magic Apr 10 10.30am to 12 noon Have a fun time with one of the Education Officers discovering more about the Ancient Egyptians! See and handle objects from our collections and make an amazing Egyptian mask. £2.50 per child. Advance booking advised by visiting the Museum Welcome Desk. Drop-In Workshop: Beautiful Birds Apr 16 10.30am to 1pm (last entries at 12.30pm) Take some inspiration from the specimens in our natural history gallery and use our craft materials to make a beautiful bird mobile. No need to book. Drop-in for as little or as long as you like. Bookable Workshop: Creatures of the Deep Apr 17 10.30am to 12 noon Spend some time with one of the Education Officers finding out more about the ocean deep! See and handle objects from our natural history and

Apr 18 to Apr 21 Easter Games

Join in with Easter inspired games in the Garden all weekend.

Buckland Abbey Yelverton 01822 853607 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ buckland-abbey

Mar 1 and Mar 2 Treasured Gold

On this date in 1579 Drake overtakes Spanish ship Cacafuego, his richest plunder. Come and make golden treasures to take home! 12-3pm maritime collections then create your own sea creature. £2.50 per child. Advance booking advised by visiting the Museum Welcome Desk.

siblings are welcome. You can have a go at our ‘Cheeky Monkeys’ gallery trail afterwards too! Admission free. No need to book.

Storytelling Sessions: Cheeky Monkeys and Bouncy Bunnies Apr 19 1.30pm to 2.15pm and 2.30pm to 3.15pm Join our storyteller for some fun, interactive folk tales about all sorts of animals - and help him create and act out a brand new story! Sessions are mainly suitable for children aged 3 to 7 but younger wrigglers and older

Saltram House Plympton 01752 333500 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ saltram

Apr 9 and Apr 16 Who needs a Tardis?

Step back in time and imagine yourself at Saltram 300 years ago with this family Garden tour.

Apr 10 and Apr 17 Things with wings

Tour the House and children will discover some of Saltram’s winged inhabitants. Apr 18 to Apr 21 Easter Trails

Go along and hunt around for the clues to earn your chocolate reward. Normal Garden admission applies, plus £2 per trail. Gates open: 11am Last admission time: 3pm Free event (normal admission charges apply)

Mar 4 Pancake Day

Join in at the start of Lent to see how a Tudor kitchen celebrated Shrove Tuesday. 11.30am-3.30pm Mar 30 Mother’s Day

Free entry to the entire estate for all mothers on their special day. Treat her to a special meal in the restaurant or make her a card and paper flowers with free crafts all weekend. 10.30am5.30pm. Meal bookings essential, 01822 856041.

the plymouth magazine

what’s on?

exhibitions & other events Events at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Drake Circus Until May 10 Peter Randall-Page: New Sculpture and Works on Paper

See a special joint exhibition between Peninsula Arts, Plymouth University and Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery that celebrates the work of internationally recognised artist and sculptor, Peter Randall-Page. Presented as one show displayed across the two city centre venues, ‘New Sculpture and Works on Paper’ is Peter’s first major exhibition in the region for twenty five years. Mar 1 to May 10 Laura Knight Portraits

Dame Laura Knight (1877 –1970) was one of the most popular and pioneering British artists of the twentieth

century. Her artistic career took her from Cornwall to Baltimore and from the circus to the Nuremberg Trials. Knight used portraiture to capture contemporary life and culture, and her paintings are remarkable for their diverse range of subjects and settings. This exhibition of portraits will reveal Knight’s highly distinctive and vivid work, and also illustrate her success in gaining greater professional recognition for women in the arts. Apr 1 to Sept 27 Diary of a Soldier

Merchant’s House 33 St Andrew St, Plymouth City Centre. See a display featuring transcripts and images of sketches by W O Reynolds, an artist, teacher and soldier from Lipson in Plymouth who served in the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force during World War I. Two of his diaries and sketchbooks are held in the City archives and provide a fascinating first-hand account of his experiences. This display focuses on the diary of his outward voyage to Gallipoli via Malta and Egypt dated 16 July 1915 to 25 February 1916. For details call 01752 304774

prestigious exhibition of drawings at two city venues Plymouth Arts Centre and Plymouth College of Art have collaborated to host the prestigious Jerwood Drawing Prize in Plymouth for the first time. The Jerwood Drawing Prize, now in its 20th year, is the UK’s largest and longest running annual open for drawing. Seventy-six works of art spanning the richness, diversity and range of contemporary drawing in the UK will be hosted across the two venues, for the touring show’s only stop in the South West. With selections made from original art works, and decisions based on the work as presented, the Jerwood Drawing Prize has established a reputation for its commitment to championing excellence and promoting contemporary drawing practice within the UK. Just under 3,000 entries were submitted this year for consideration by a distinguished panel of judges: Kate Brindley, Director of Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art (mima); Artist Michael Craig-Martin RA; and Charlotte Mullins, Editor of Art Quarterly. The open exhibition is a platform for artists to show their work alongside other leading contemporary artists in this field, from established artists to relative newcomers and students fresh from art school. “The Jerwood approach to this prize is non-hierarchical,” said Caroline Mawdsley, Plymouth Arts Centre’s Curator of Programmes.

01752 648320

Covering all of Devon and Cornwall

Charcoal on paper by Emma Vidal, Anthropology 1, 2013

“Visitors to the exhibition will find drawings by students and recent graduates hung alongside the work of well known artists without prioritising one over the other.” The Jerwood Drawing Prize has seen a strong South West contingent this year, with artists from Devon, Exeter and Wiltshire, and alumni from University College Falmouth and Bristol’s University of the West of England featuring in the show. Plymouth University graduates James Eden and Olly Rooks received a student prize in the 2010 Jerwood Drawing Prize, for the video work Burst, which was also shown at Plymouth Arts Centre in January 2013. The Jerwood Drawing Prize is the second show in Plymouth College of Art’s Drawing Season. Drawing as a discipline in its own right, was introduced to the college in September, through the specialist BA Painting, Drawing and Printmaking degree programme.

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Stephen Felmingham, head of the painting, drawing and printmaking programme, said: “Drawing is at the heart of the degree programme here, so it’s great to be hosting the Jerwood Drawing Prize with Plymouth Arts Centre. It will be a great opportunity for students to experience the rich diversity of contemporary drawing practice on their own doorstep.” The Jerwood Drawing Prize runs at both venues until Sunday 9 March.

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the plymouth magazine

Throughout the exhibition, Plymouth Arts Centre and the Gallery at Plymouth College of Art will be hosting a free programme of events and talks by prizewinning artists. www.plymouthartscentre.org www.plymouthartscentre.org

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skills shortage fuels demand for more apprentices

A critical shortage of skilled labour is posing a serious threat to the construction industry in Plymouth and the rest of the South West. Major housing developments at Plymstock Quarry, Wembury, Seaton and Sherford have led to a dramatic increase in demand for skilled tradesmen. Against this positive background of real job and career opportunities, the head of a leading Plymouth-based training provider has warned that the shortfall is likely to get worse rather than better in the years ahead. Mark Boulting, managing director of Skills Group said: “We have a record number of vacancies for apprentices in the construction industry, but there are simply not enough young people coming forward. “We have 40 vacancies in the construction sector at present, many of these for bricklayer apprentices - but we only have about 20 youngsters applying for these posts each month. “With builders and construction companies all forecasting growth in the next two to three years the situation will become increasingly critical.” Skills Group is one of the largest training providers in the South West and is one of only a handful nationally which has achieved an ‘outstanding’ report from Ofsted. The company provides training for youngsters and adults across a range of industry sectors including construction, engineering and automotive, early years and adult care, business, hairdressing and sport and leisure.

the plymouth magazine

training matters

It has seen rapid growth in the last three years with the number of trainees virtually doubling to around 1,750 at present, plus a further 100 youngsters who are taking part in the recently-launched pre-apprenticeship training programme. Speaking about the pre-apprenticeship programme Mark said: “More and more employers across all sectors are looking to recruit apprentices over the next 12 to 18 months and at Skills Group we can guarantee youngsters will get an apprenticeship placement if they complete the programme to the required standard.”

Mark Boulting, managing director of Skills Group.. ‘urgent need for more apprentices in the construction industry’

To meet the continued demand, Skills Group has recruited a significant number of new staff over the last year and now employs over 120 people. It is currently investing £1.5m in a new state-of-the-art 25,000 sq ft construction training campus in Plympton which will provide vocational training skills in carpentry and joinery, • continued on next page

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the plymouth magazine

big demand for apprentices in the construction sector

training matters

• continued from previous page

bricklaying, glass and glazing, dry lining, painting and decorating, plastering and wall and floor tiling.

Mark said that the sport and leisure programme was now also being delivered in schools to youngsters aged 16 and above.

The new campus is due to open in May. Meanwhile a further £250,000 is being spent in refurbishing Skills Group’s Drakes Court training facility to provide a new campus for its engineering and automotive training courses.

“Having completed their GCSEs these youngsters can stay on at school to improve basic literacy and numeracy skills and also spend two days a week with Skills Group gaining experience and vocational training.

Skills Group also has training facilities for hairdressing and care at the HQ Business Centre in Union Street and has also recently opened a new training facility in the centre of Exeter with one more planned for Newton Abbot in the spring.

“We have undertaken this type of programme in the construction sector for many years and know that it can work well for the vast majority of youngsters.”

Last year Skills Group launched a sport and leisure apprenticeship programme which has proved extremely successful. Working in collaboration with organisations such as the Elfordleigh Hotel Golf & Country Club, Plymouth Life Centre and Plymouth Argyle, Skills Group is delivering a training programme which covers activity leadership, exercise and fitness, leisure operations and leisure management.

He said that one of the biggest challenges for Skills Group and other training providers was overcoming the lack of knowledge among 16 and 17 year olds about their career options. “Secondary schools now have the obligation to provide careers advice and it is no secret that Ofsted have found this provision sadly lacking in many cases. “Youngsters are simply unaware of all the options and choices available to them when it comes to the subject of apprenticeships and other training programmes,” he said. “We would encourage youngsters and parents who are unsure about career opportunities to talk to us at Skills Group, or another apprenticeship provider about the opportunities available” Mark joined with other training industry leaders in expressing concern over the future funding of apprenticeship programmes. “The Government wants to direct funding for training to employers rather than training providers via the tax system and we feel this could seriously derail the current system. They also want employers to make a significant cash contribution to apprentices’ external training costs. He said: “The looming crisis facing apprenticeships is a very real one, and likely to provide a legacy for the minister in charge, of destroying a very successful and popular system built from a decade of investment.” Experts in the training provider field predict an 80 per cent decline in apprenticeship numbers if the reforms are fully implemented. But Mark said: “That may be a conservative estimate. The changes threaten to not only derail the current success but also destroy the infrastructure for years to come. This means less choice for young people leaving school now and over the next decade. “As a training provider we are acutely aware of the needs of small and medium sized business in hiring apprentices – they want the bureaucracy taken away and be allowed to get on with their day to day job. “Young people on the other hand want to know there is someone independent making sure things are done right. By funding the employer for delivering the apprenticeship you run the risk of a product that will suit no one. Employers, as well as youngsters, will turn away from apprenticeships in their droves.” He added: “When testing the water with small employers we asked them how they felt about paying for an apprenticeship and reclaiming the money back via the tax system, the resounding response was that anything that involved dealing with HMRC would lead them to disengage immediately. “Given the make up of the South West economy as driven by small businesses this policy has the potential to leave a legacy of disaster, reducing chances for a decade of young people and contributing to a skills shortage just when the country is starting to get it’s head above water.” For further information contact Skills Group on 0845 319 4343 or visit www.skillsgroupuk.com

the plymouth magazine

THE SILVERSEA DIFFERENCE • Intimate elegant ships – 100-540 guests • Butler service for every suite • Complimentary Champagne, wines and spirits* • All ocean-view accommodations • In-suite bar stocked with your preferred selections • Gourmet cuisine in association with Relais & Châteaux • 24-hour room service* • In-suite dining served course by course* • All gratuities included • Complimentary transportation into town (most ports) * during Restaurant hours

DEPARTURE DATE

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DAYS

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Vancouver > Crusing the Inside Passage > Ketchikan > Juneau > Skagway > Sitka > Cruise Tracyarm/Sawyer Glacier > Prince Rupert > Day at Sea > Victoria > Vancouver SILVER PRIVILEGE FARES FROM DEPARTURE DATE

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11 Aug 2014

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21 Jul 2014

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4 Aug 2014

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£2,350

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Overnight in port TERMS & CONDITIONS: These offers are available only on new bookings of select sailings as indicated. Bookings that are cancelled and re-booked do not qualify. Silver Privilege Fares shown are cruise only, in Pounds Sterling, per guest based on double occupancy of a Vista Suite and reflect the highest savings available for each voyage. Single supplements are available on request. Silver Privilege Fares are capacity controlled, are likely to increase, and do not guarantee suite availability, due to limited inventory. Book early to take advantage of the most generous savings and to secure your preferred suite selection. Savings may vary by suite category, and may not be available in all categories or combinable with other savings programmes and promotional offers. Additional restrictions may apply. Promotional Economy Class Air: Offered on select voyages from select U.K. gateways for bookings & are subject to availability. Promotional airfares are available to the first and second full-fare guests in a suite. Offer includes roundtrip air plus transfers on day of embark/debark. Silversea reserves the right to select the air carrier, routing, departure airport and layover if necessary. Silversea’s ability to offer promotional Air Fare is limited to airline scheduling and the availability of negotiated airfares. Airfares negotiated by Silversea limit your ability to exchange, endorse or make changes to air tickets and may limit the ability to make advanced seat assignments. Offer is available for a limited time only and is subject to availability. Additional restrictions may apply. All fares, savings, offers, itineraries and programmes are subject to change without notice. Voyage highlights, excursions and enrichment programmes are subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. All information contained herein is accurate and in effect at time of publication. Silversea reserves the right to correct any errors.

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Regular readers will have noticed that I have featured cruising holidays on more than just a few occasions in my column. This is because cruising continues to be a significant growth market within the travel industry as cruise holidays become increasingly popular with younger couples and families as well as the traditional older clientele. The market leaders such as P&O Cruises and Royal Caribbean certainly seem to have adopted the ‘bigger the better’ philosophy and are focusing their expansion on larger ships, which offer an ever increasing range of activities and facilities. However, some cruise operators firmly believe that ‘small is beautiful’ and ‘quality is better than quantity’. These companies have chosen to specialise in offering cruises on smaller vessels The main dining room on the with a much greater staff to passenger Silver Whisper ratio and a fine attention to detail. Whilst I admit that all operators specialise to a certain extent and have established their own place in the market, my experience would suggest that cruise customers looking for a top quality product have more loyalty to brand and are prepared to pay a premium for the standards they expect. This leads me quite nicely on to sharing my latest cruise experience with you. In November of last year, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to join the Silver Whisper for a Caribbean cruise operated by Silversea Cruises. Along with a group of Peter Goord Travel clients, we flew to Barbados to begin a seven-night cruise on this five-star plus, all inclusive ship. A week’s cruising holiday in a warm climate at the end of the year sounded like the perfect way of escaping the start of the British winter and a chance to relax before the onslaught of Christmas shopping! After a little more than eight hours, our direct British Airways scheduled flight from London Gatwick touched down in Bridgetown, Barbados and within an hour and a half, we had boarded the Silver Whisper. With a crew of just over 300 and a similar number of passengers, it quickly became apparent that our on board experience was going to be very special indeed. Every suite, even the lowest grade of cabin, features its own lounge area and marble bathroom and upgrades range from balcony suites to luxury two bedroomed large suites suitable for families. Every suite on board has a butler and upon entering our accommodation, we were greeted by a friendly face who was keen to explain the 24-hour room service on offer, which included replenishing our mini-bar with any required beverages (and I mean any), unpacking our cases, cleaning our shoes, making restaurant reservations on our behalf and even cleaning our sunglasses! Absolutely nothing was too much trouble and the excellent cabin service played a

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travel matters

big part in making this a truly unique cruising experience. Having also cruised on some of the largest ships operated by the companies which cater primarily for the bigger cruise market, I have been asked how these cruises differ from those operated by a quality, niche operator such as Silversea. What quickly became apparent once aboard the Silver Whisper was that you never have the feeling of being crowded anywhere on the ship at any time and there was no pressure at all from staff selling excursion packages or photographs. The ship offered a selection of restaurants including La Terazza (Italian), Le Champagne (a la carte), Hot Rocks (Steakhouse) and The Restaurant (the main dining room). Although some of these venues were quite busy on certain nights, they all offered a standard of service, food and wine that you would expect from a renowned five-star restaurant and it should be remembered that everything is included in the cost of your cruise with the exception of Le Champagne, which carries a $30 supplement per person.

By Travel Expert Anthony Goord

The indulgence doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t end at meal times, to keep the momentum going, you can visit the Panorama Lounge every day at 4pm to partake in afternoon tea, served with freshly made sandwiches and pastries, white gloved of course.

The impeccable standard of food, beverages and service on this cruise obviously became a highlight, but the itinerary for this cruise was also quite different with some very interesting ports of call. The Silver Whisper was able to visit some of the much smaller Caribbean islands and less accessible ports partly due to its size compared with the larger ships which tend to call at the more commercialised islands and larger ports. Our first day was spent at sea en route to the tiny island of St Maarten, just 37 square miles in size but with two different languages as it is ruled by two sovereign nations. The French and the Dutch communities have resided side by side here for many years and crossing the border is barely noticeable as there are no border controls or customs. However, the Dutch side seemed more suited to those looking for a more active, lively holiday while the French side had a more relaxed ambience with fashionable shops and a continental flair.

In-suite dining is one of the options on Silver Whisper

We had a short tour of the island followed by a speed boat safari, which was great

â&#x20AC;˘ continued on next page the plymouth magazine

discovering the delights (and of caribbean • continued from previous page fun and gave us an excellent view of the beautiful coastline. Our following day included a visit to the island of St Barts, discovered by Columbus in 1493 and named after his brother, Barlomeo. Part of the French West Indies, this duty free island boasts fabulous beaches, luxury yachts and designer boutiques. Of all the islands we visited, this was definitely my favourite; it had a very European feel and stunning backdrops of exclusive villas nestled in the green hills. We meandered around the boutiques for a while before asking a taxi driver to take us to the infamous St Jean beach. As well as being one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, this stretch of golden sand is uniquely attached to the end of the runway at Gustaf III Airport, reportedly the third most dangerous runway in the world.

Anthony with his personal butler on the Silver Whisper

It was fascinating to watch the planes take off directly over the beach at very low altitude and it was possible to actually walk on to end of the runway for a photo opportunity – traffic permitting! The Eden Rock Hotel and Restaurant is situated at the end of the bay at St Jean beach and is one of the most exclusive establishments on the island and is owned by David and Jane Matthews, parents of Spencer Matthews who is a star of the TV series Made in Chelsea, or so I am told! We had a superb lunch here but beware as the prices are quite steep. Dominica was our next stop, situated to the north of Guadeloupe and to the south of Martinique. With a very green and rugged landscape, this destination would definitely appeal to nature lovers or those looking to escape life in the bustling capital of Roseau. Activities and excursions on Dominica have an outdoor adventure theme with hiking, bike treks, bird and butterfly spotting in the rain forest, exploring waterfalls and boiling lakes, kayaking, diving, sailing and snorkeling among the many options available. We chose to take part in a whale and dolphin adventure and we were lucky enough to witness sperm whales, pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, which was an amazing experience. I think I could have spotted a few more but as the day drew on, the very enjoyable but quite potent rum punch began flowing as it often does in the Caribbean. St Lucia was our next stop and, to be perfectly honest, my first impressions were not great. We docked in the port of Castries and decided to have a walk around the town. Having just visited such characteristic and scenic islands in the preceding days, Castries was a complete shock to the system. I found it dirty, unwelcoming and somewhat dilapidated. There were people everywhere selling was can best be described as ‘junk’ from stalls that were situated in no more than run down doorways. I do of course realise, and completely accept, that certain port entry points to towns and cities worldwide can often be the poorest part of that particular country or island and that many visitors do want to experience the true culture of such places. However, for some cruise passengers who have been closeted from the real world on board their luxury ship, suddenly stepping in to such an environment can be a huge shock and they could perceive it as being unsafe. After a brief exploration of Castries, we soon returned to the ship ready for our afternoon excursion, as did most of the passengers. By contrast, this afternoon excursion proved to be one of the best tours we had ever done – a Segway Tour.

This involved riding on a two-wheeled vehicle that is controlled mostly by your the plymouth magazine

travel matters

disappointments) islands balance. The tour took us on a nature trail through a picturesque rain forest that overlooked the beautiful Rodney Bay, one of the Caribbean’s premier yachting centres. The guides were very knowledgeable and pointed out many different types of flowers, trees and wildlife along the way which added to the quirkiness of travelling between them on this fun mode of transport. The tour ended up on the beach with a customary glass of rum punch and a group picture to show we had all succeeded in mastering the art of travelling on the Segway. There was even a gentleman of 85 years of age on this trip which proves that you are never too old for such an experience!

With friends on the runway at Gustaf Airport and (below) preparing for the Segway experience

If I had to summarise my visit to St Lucia, I would say that it is evidently a beautiful island but I would strongly advise booking an organised tour because simply disembarking the ship and exploring the port does not do it justice or give you a fair impression of the place. Our final destination was the island of Bequia, part of St Vincent and the Grenadines. Once again, another stunning lush green island which seemed to have great character.

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We anchored in the picturesque Admiralty Bay, a favourite spot for private and chartered yachts. This island is very rarely visited by cruise ships and during our island cruise we were advised that their busy season is from November until March with an average of one ship visiting per week. When you compare this frequency to Barbados, St Lucia or Antigua which can host numerous ships visiting every day, it makes you realise what a rarely visited destination this is. After our coastal cruise we were taken to ‘Princess Margaret Beach’ a lovely bay named after our late Princess who often came to Bequi and frequented this particular beach. It felt like an appropriate end to our cruise; watching the sun set at the very same spot as Royalty had done for all those years before us! We returned to Barbados the following morning and spent some time on the island relaxing before we transferred to the airport in the afternoon. During this time, we explored some of the local beaches (and bars) on offer but I think Barbados deserves a more detailed review of its own, which I will perhaps save for another column at a later date. All in all, we enjoyed our cruising experience with Silversea immensely. The ship, the staff and the food were all of an excellent standard, way above that I have experienced on cruises with other companies. The itinerary was also a variation on the usual routes taken by the larger ships and it was certainly interesting to be able to visit some of the lesser known islands. The Peter Goord Travel clients and friends on board all agreed that we enjoyed a wonderful cruise, which was made even more special to me by their company. Next time you are considering booking a cruise, please don’t forget to look at Silversea; their itineraries might be more expensive but the standards and extras are worth every penny. Happy Sailing! If you would like to order a copy of the Silversea brochure or would like any more information on this or any other fantastic cruises then please contact Anthony at Peter Goord Travel on 01752 364186

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Kerry Cole is a regular contributor to the Plymouth Magazine, writing about the arts scene in Plymouth. In 2010 she published her art-style book, The Purple Veil, and she has just published her first novel, ‘Exit Darcus’. She was recently interviewed on Cross Rhythms radio for the Art of Living show, and Ian Pilkington asked her some pertinent questions to give our readers more of an insight into the journey of Exit Darcus... What is your new novel Exit Darcus all about? Well, it’s a modern story about relationships, woven intricately with the luring mysteries of the paranormal and supernatural. It’s a bit of an emotional exposé that goes in search of all the secrets that lie beneath the surface in people. This is the outline: ‘Beautiful, yet troubled, runaway, Alice Delaney, trespasses onto the grounds of the ancient estate of Beulah, in an attempt to escape her external circumstances. A safe haven to relieve her inner demons proves harder to find, but is shown to be possible by the disclosures of a sexy young artist who is willing to strip his soul naked before her. With its many twists, turns and layers, this book is compelling reading and is powerfully unlocking.’ I guess you can tell that’s been well-rehearsed, but it’s the best way I’ve found of introducing the story without giving too much away – there are some real potential ‘spoilers’ that I have to avoid. I’ve been told by several readers that it has a mysterious and magical feel to it and that reading it is like watching a movie.

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plymouth magazine

the story the story exit

Why did you write it, where did your inspiration come from? I wrote it as an extension of a creative journey that I’ve been on for several years that included a piece of theatrical drama and an art-styled poetic book called The Purple Veil. Both of these works explore mankind’s quest to find love. Who would Exit Darcus appeal to... and why? Men, men, men! And of course women! And anybody over the age of about fourteen. Young adults are enjoying it, as are men and women of all ages. So it’s good for general readership, really. Because it’s listed on Amazon under ‘Paranormal Romance’ I worry that men may not go for it, which would be so wrong - but one male reviewer on Amazon said, ‘men you need to read this book’. A young guy who read it, said to me that the stuff the main male character goes through stands as a beacon to show how to avoid the pitfalls he encounters. He said to me, ‘Kes goes through things so I don’t have to!’ It gets into a deeper language than just the physical dimension of relationships. Someone told me it is one of the most emotionally charged books they have ever read. It’s real and raw, yet redemptive. It’s also laced with humour. Several readers have said they have been laughing one minute and in tears the next. It does carry deep understanding into how men and women relate to each other - either for good or for bad. One reviewer said ‘ideal book for adults and teenagers alike as it deals with social topics and has great insight into how men and women tick.’ Two big themes in your book are people getting into unhealthy relationships, and going through unhealthy paranormal experiences - do you think those are common problems nowadays? And is there any hope? The book begins with one of my main characters in a difficult state because she has got into some paranormal practises that have left her feeling oppressed. Yes, I do believe people can get into unhealthy paranormal experiences and relationships that have consequences. We all have freewill and free choice in what

behind of darcus

literary matters

we allow into our lives and what we open ourselves up to. There is hope, but you have to read the book to find out! Where can we get hold of a copy? Exit Darcus is only available on Amazon. It comes as a paperback or on Kindle. For more information on how to get hold of Exit Darcus visit www.amazon.co.uk You can hear Kerry’s Interview on Cross Rhythms 96.3fm and online at www.crossrhythms.co.uk/radio/console/plymouth Sunday March 2 12 noon; Saturday March 8 5pm; Tuesday March 11, Friday March 14, Monday March 17, Thursday March 20, Wednesday March 26, all at 10am Kerry Cole is interviewed by Ian Pilkington for Cross Rhythms

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consumer confidence is boosting plymouth property market A combination of improved consumer confidence and more favourable mortgage deals is helping stimulate Plymouth’s property market. That’s the view of Darren Lawson, managing director of Mansbridge & Balment, one of the city’s leading independent estate agents. “2013 ended very strongly with another increase in asking prices in the last quarter and as we entered 2014 the market remained very buoyant with demand for property currently outstripping supply,” said Darren. “January can normally be quite a quiet month in terms of market activity, but that is certainly not the case in 2014. We have had a tremendously busy and successful start to the year and we see that continuing throughout the year.

Darren Lawson... ‘tremendous start to the year’

“For a number of years, there have been more potential buyers than sellers, but that picture certainly showed signs of changing in January when we saw a significant upturn in the number of properties coming onto the market.” He said that the Bickleigh Down development of 91 eco-homes, where Mansbridge & Balment have been appointed as sole agents, had sparked huge interest, with properties being reserved off plan for the first time in many years. It has been a similar story at the Lamellion Court development of 25 retirement homes in Liskeard, where more than 100 people attended a marketing launch and

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property matters

two properties have already been reserved. “Activity at this kind of level means there is reason for optimism in the months ahead for buyers and sellers alike and I anticipate the Government’s Help to Buy scheme will begin to have an even greater impact on the market, which has to be particularly good news for those looking to get on the house ladder for the first time,” added Darren. “The prospect of potential interest rate rises in the medium to longer term will undoubtedly prompt more activity in the market too.” With the improved market conditions and increased activity, Mansbridge & Balment is taking the opportunity to reinforce the importance of customer service. “For several years now we have sold more properties in Plymouth than any other estate agent, according to statistics from Guild Intelligence. We put this success down to the quality of our customer service,” he added. Mansbridge & Balment last autumn introduced a nine-point customer service promise which commits the company in a number of important areas including preparation of details, advertising, viewings, feedback, marketing updates and progress reports on the sales process. “We reduce our fee by £100 if we fail on any one of our nine-point promise and I’m pleased to say we have only had to do that on one occasion - when we took 48 hours to get the For Sale board up rather than in one working day as promised. “The nine-point promise underlines the fact that we prefer to focus on the quality of our customer service, rather than fees. Our fees are neither the lowest nor the highest, but we do firmly believe that we offer genuine value for money.” Darren said that since introducing the customer service promise Mansbridge & Balment had risen more than 20 places to be rated as one of the best 100 estate agents in the country, based on customer feedback. All the company’s full-time staff are fully qualified with The National Association of Estate Agents and undergo continuous career development and training. “The quality, experience and professionalism of our staff is obviously one of the main reasons for our success.” In Ann Hall, Mansbridge & Balment has a dedicated sales progressor with wide experience of conveyancing and legal matters. “Ann receives many tributes from customers for the way she ensures that transactions run as smoothly as possible. Her previous experience as a legal assistant means she can help resolve any last minute issues,” said Darren. He added that Ann was so busy at present that they will be appointing an assistant to work with her in the near future. Mansbridge & Balment 6 Mannamead Road, Plymouth Tel 01752 229292 web www.mansbridgebalment.co.uk

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business matters

jigsaw interiors all the pieces success A family run kitchen and bedroom company in Saltash directed by Paul and Ian Jarvis is experiencing a positive uplift in business as homeowners become more confident in the outlook for the property market. Ian Jarvis was for 20 years the workshop manager for Custom Made Interiors. In 2012 he joined forces with family member Paul Jarvis to set up Jigsaw Interior Solutions when the opportunity arose to aquire his former company’s premises and machinery. Ian along with Chris Colins, another former employee of Custom Made Interiors, with 14 years experience in the industry, were fully involved in the manufacture and installation of the former company’s kitchens and bedrooms with a long list of happy customers. It follows that Jigsaw Interior Solutions are pleased to be able to carry on making and fitting quality custom made interiors. Jigsaw Interior Solutions differ from most independent companies in the market because they actually manufacture the kitchen, office and bedroom furniture within their Saltash premises – and then carry out the full installation themselves. Paul, who has 30 years’ experience in designing and building property, is responsible for the initial contact with customers, identifying their precise requirements and then providing a free, no obligation quotation. Once the customer has agreed the initial estimate, Paul prepares a complete design using computeraided technology. Finished plans are then passed to the workshop for Ian and Chris to manufacture the custom built units. Following completion of the units doors, drawers, handles and other fittings are added in preparation for installation.

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Ian said: “We are a small team offering a very personal service. We use our trusted qualified trades people for electrics, plumbing, plastering, flooring and tiling. Our job is to design, manufacture, install and oversee the whole project from start to finish – to the customer’s complete satisfaction.” Paul added: “We believe we offer quality products at an extremely competitive price,

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Ian and Chris cutting in the workshop

The Jigsaw Interiors team...from left: Paul Jarvis, Ian Jarvis and Chris Colins

have for because not only do we carry out the manufacturing ourselves, but we also have very low overheads compared with many of our competitors, who invariably have large and expensive showrooms to maintain.” He said that as far as kitchen appliances are concerned they are not only Neff and Bosch partners, but can also supply a wide range of other brands, depending on the customer’s budget and specific choices. “We supply a comprehensive range of styles and finishes for doors, worktops and other fittings so customers can have a kitchen, office or bedroom designed unique to their requirements,” added Paul. Paul said that most of their business came from word of mouth recommendation, they have secured a significant amount of repeat business with customers expressing complete satisfaction as to the quality of work and that the job is left

clean and tidy. Customers can rest assured that all old fitted units can be removed by Jigsaw free of charge. “We have a lot of customers in Plymouth and the surrounding area with our main catchment for business being South East Cornwall and South West Devon. We are well placed to serve customers within a wide radius of our facility here at Saltash. “We were clearly coming out of the recession and feel there is growing confidence among homeowners. The outlook is looking extremely buoyant for us. For more information: Jigsaw Interior Solutions Ltd, Unit 7, Prideaux Close, Tamar View Industrial Estate, SaltashTel 01752 840963 www.jigsawinteriorsolutions.co.uk

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help your youngsters masterchefs in Here at Roundabout Nursery we love food! We have a great chef who cooks home-made food every day and it smells, looks and tastes great! For many of our parents this is one thing that they really like, knowing that their child is having a home cooked hot meal at lunch time. But cooking in a purpose built kitchen with no children at your feet is very different to cooking at home! Tired, grouchy children hanging around your ankles when you’re trying to cook is no fun, but is often the reality by 4 o’clock in the afternoon. This can be tackled in a couple of ways. You can cook dinner at 10 o’clock in the morning – but that is not always an appetising smell that early in the day! Or you can tweak your recipes so that your child can help you.

By Liz Crudginton of Roundabout Day Nursery

favourites – Easter nests. But these aren’t your usual chocolate nests – these are far superior! To make about 20 nests you will need: 5 Mars Bars (chopped) 100g Butter or Margarine 4 table spoons of syrup 8 Shredded Wheat – broken up 200g Bag of chocolate eggs Basic instructions: Melt the chopped mars bars, syrup and butter in a saucepan Break up the shredded wheat Mix the shredded wheat with the melted mixture Form into nest shapes and add eggs

Young children love doing ‘jobs’ so this is a great way to keep them occupied while you get on with the dinner and you’ll often find they eat better when they’ve helped make it too!

Start by providing a work surface that is at their level. A child size table that you can leave in the kitchen is the best thing.

So over the next few months we will be sharing some child friendly recipe ideas with you.

Doing this is better than a stool at this age because you can carry on cooking without worrying that they’re going to fall off!

With Easter around the corner we are going to start with one of my childhood

As they get older invest in a solid stool that won’t wobble when they’e on it.

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to become the making

family matters

Jobs for any age helper

Primary aged (5 – 11 years)

Give them a plastic bowl with shredded wheat in to break up with their fingers

Depending on their age and ability they can now start to help with cutting up the Mars Bars into about five pieces per bar.

Let them sort the eggs into colours or sizes

Read the packaging, talk about the labels, e.g. if the pack of butter contains 250 grams, roughly how much of the pack will we need?

When you’ve melted and mixed the ingredients they cool quite quickly once they are in a nest shape let your child put the eggs in the nest

Let them measure out the butter and syrup and put all these bits in a pan for you to melt down

Under 3s Young children love mixing and pouring so if you’ve got time you could give them several sized bowls and jugs at this point to use with their broken shredded wheat Talk about the colours of the eggs and begin to count them.

Count in 2s or 3’s as you count out the eggs

Pre-schoolers (3 – 5 years) Let them open any packets for you Let them help you measure out the syrup and help you weigh out the butter Get them to count how many Mars Bars you need Count how many eggs you have

Lovely Planted Gifts for Mother’s Day* Join us in the coffee shop for Mother’s Day Lunch! (bookings taken for 12 o’clock, sitting only). *Plants may vary from pictures.

Count how many eggs there are in total and work out how many they could put on each nest. Hope you have fun with your youngsters !

Plymouth Garden Centre

TREAT MUM AT PLYMOUTH GARDEN CENTRE ONE FREE REGULAR TEA OR COFFEE FOR MUM

with any Main Mother’s Day Lunch purchased Valid on 30/03/2014, between 12:00-2:30pm | One per voucher

Fort Austin Avenue, Crownhill, Plymouth PL6 5NU

www.plymouthgardencentre.co.uk Telephone: 01752 771820

the plymouth magazine

spring treasures bringing February’s constant stormy weather and flooding hasn’t stopped things in the garden getting a head start with the mild temperatures. Plants are romping away, especially the spring flowering bulbs, and the early flowering herbaceous perennials. These little spring treasures are certainly putting some cheer into the garden despite the gloomy weather. We have three new varieties of Hellebore in stock, which differ from the traditional Hellebore that we all know and love. They are Helleborus x Ericsmithii ‘Winter Moonbeam’, ‘Winter Sunshine’ and ‘Pirouette’. They flower from February through to April and produce an abundance of flowers. Winter Moonbeam flowers start off on maroon stems with maroon buds that open up to reveal white flowers. As the flowers develop and fade, they gradually fade to cream and pink. Winter Sunshine has flowers that start off pink with a white flush before gradually turning red. Pirouette has deep red buds that open up to reveal white flowers with pink backs. As the flowers age and fade, they turn deep red.

Fiona Newton and Derek Anderson of Plymouth Garden Centre

Unlike traditional Hellebores, the flowers on these varieties are much larger and can be as much as 10cm (4ins) across and face outwards and upwards instead of hanging down.

After the flowers on all three have faded, it is important to remove the flowering stocks and any dead or tatty foliage to keep the plants looking their best. They all have attractive evergreen foliage which is a bonus as it creates interest all year round. The foliage is a pewter green colour with silver veins and mottling, it really stands out when planted in a slightly shaded position. To get the best from them, grow in a moist, humus rich compost that is free draining: they like high fertility, but hate to be waterlogged. They are versatile with regards to planting position as they will thrive in both sun and shade. Growing to a height of 40cm (16ins) with a spread of 40-60cm (16-24ins), they are equally at home in the garden or in pots.

With bright yellow daisy-like flowers, Doronicum is one of the few daisy family members to bloom in spring, and generally flowers when the last of the daffodils are out. It’s a low maintenance plant that can be used in a flower border or herbaceous border to get the season off to an early start, or for growing at front of a shrub border. Its foliage appears early in the season, so it is wise to plant clumps in front of large flowering daffodils to hide the foliage while it dies down.

Spring is coming!

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Cornerstone Vison 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth PL3 4PY, Tel: 01752 225623 www.cornerstonevision.com

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plymouth magazine the

Hellebore Winter Moonbeam

Doronicum

Doronicums also look great when planted with Cowslips (Primula Veris) on a grassy bank to create a natural spring display. They also look equally good growing between a mixed grass border. Alternatively for a contrasting display, plant it with scarlet tulips or with purple wallflowers. For best results, grow Doronicum in a fertile soil in sun or partial shade. It will grow happily in pots, but it will bulk up more in the garden. It grows to a height of 30-45cm (12-18ins) with a spread of 60cm (24ins).

Pulmonarias are another excellent plant for the combination of beautiful flowers and foliage. They produce clusters of nodding flowers in blue, pink, white or red which are great for attracting bees. There are some varieties that produce blue flowers that fade slowly to pink, so that on the one plant at any time you will have blue, pink and purple flowers. Pulmonarias are excellent for moist shade and are a low maintenance ground cover plant, they spread slowly and need little care. Pulmonaria ‘Blue Ensign’ is often one of the best blue varieties with royal blue blooms appearing in late winter to mid spring after they have finished flowering. They produce oval, velvety leaves from mid green to dark green. Some have white spots all over the leaves while others have silver stripes or white edges. Grow Pulmonarias in cool shady places where they won’t dry out in summer. They like a fertile, humus rich soil that stays evenly moist. They grow to a height of 40cm (14ins) with a spread of 90cm (3ft). Great planting companions for Pulmonarias are dark plum forms of Helleborus Orientalis and Snake’s Head Fitillaries (Fritllaria Meleagris). Other great plant foils include the acid greens of early Euphorbias, the lime-green and purple leaves of Heucheras and the golden leaves of Acorus Ogon.

gardening matters

cheer to our gardens Dianthus Passion has deep red flowers, Memories are pure white and Tickled Pink are powder pink. They all have waxy, spiky, glaucous blue foliage which makes them drought tolerant, so perfect for a hot, dry sunny position, or in a pot on a sun baked patio. They like a gritty, free draining soil to perform well and will grow to a height of 30cm (12ins) with a spread of 30cm (12ins). They have a rich, clove scent and it is worth planting them in a spot where they are easily accessible to smell them, or even by the back or front door, so you can smell them as you pass. Great planting partners include Lavenders to complement the scent and flower colours. Hebes enjoy similar growing conditions and Thyme will enjoy growing by its feet. Together this evergreen combination will look attractive, smell great and attract wildlife all year. It is also worth noting that Dianthus Memories represents the Alzheimers Society and 25p from the sale of the plant will be donated to Alzheimers Society.

Mother’s Day gifts at Plymouth Garden Centre

Scabious ‘Pink Mist’ and ‘Blue Butterfly’ are two plants that are hard to beat for sheer non stop flower performance. They start to flower in early spring and will continue right through until late autumn if regularly dead headed. Pink Mist has soft pink flowers and Blue Butterfly has lilac blue flowers. They are fantastic for attracting bees and butterflies to the garden, especially in spring, because they are a great source of early nectar.

So fingers crossed for better weather this month and for the next few at least! Happy Mother’s Day to all the mums out there and if you are short of some gift ideas make sure you pop along to the garden centre for lovely planted gift ideas and a gift shop brimming with presents! Coach trips are in full swing – pop in for details and keep an eye out for lots of events this spring and summer. Happy Gardening! Fiona & Derek

They like to grow in a sunny position on free draining soil and are particularly at home in pots. Scabious are also equally at home in the garden, where they are suitable for the front of borders, rockeries and wild flower gardens. Scabious grow to a height of 30cm (12ins) with a spread of 30cm (12ins). They look great when paired with Hebes such as Scabious Pink Mist attracts bees and Pink Pixie, Purple Pixie and butterflies to the garden Pascal as the soft pastel colours will compliment each other. Another great companion is campanula, they will grow happily at the feet of scabious, form a carpet of colour. Grasses are also excellent plating companions, mix grasses with scabious to create a soft, natural effect, Carex Lime Shine is perfect for this. For an early flower that fills the garden with scent, Dianthus Passion, Memories and Tickled Pink are all excellent candidates. They will flower from early spring and well into autumn if regularly dead headed.

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 the plymouth magazine

Wotter, Plymouth, PL7 5HP • www.moorlandhotel.com

01752 839228

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One night stay in the Wotter Room + £60 dinner voucher

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compliment our menu which changes regularly, along with a high level of service, one can look forward to food cooked to perfection and an evening of something just that little bit special. Accommodation is provided in newly-refurbished contemporary rooms, ensuring a stylish yet comfortable stay. We look forward to welcoming you to The Moorland hotel and restaurant in Plymouth, Devon. For all hotel & restaurant bookings and enquiries, please contact the Moorland Hotel on 01752 839 228

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What is the name of the bird the Steakhouse is named after? Entry Coupon

T&C apply. Subject to availability. Not to be redeemed on Mother’s Day or Easter Sunday.

Please send your completed entry coupon to the Moorland Hotel competition, the plymouth magazine, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth PL3 4PY by the closing date of 08/04/14. Please put your name below with contact details. Question: What is the name of the bird the Steakhouse is named after?

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