The Plymouth Magazine issue 127 by Cornerstone Vision

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ISSUE 127 JANUARY 2015

New venture for Ben and Francesca

Meghan nails it in Plympton Beauty tips from Rosie at Salon X Tilly’s paints a pretty picture City’s empty homes initiative What’s On guide WIN LUNCH AT CHLOE’S - SEE INSIDE

Planning and development issues look set to dominate the headlines in Plymouth during the year ahead. With so many new development schemes currently going through the planning process and several more already approved it looks as though the skyline in Plymouth will be dominated by cranes again over the next couple of years. Probably the most contentious of all developments is the proposed leisure park at Bretonside, coupled with the construction of a new bus station on the site of the old Mayflower West car park. Arguments rage about the pro’s and con’s of the Bretonside development – and the location of the new bus station – particularly in relation to James Brent’s Higher Home Park scheme and the overall impact it may have on other parts of the city, such as the West End and Barbican. Whatever the outcome of the debate it looks more likely that the Bretonside development will go ahead - leaving uncertainty over the future of the Home Park plans. Meanwhile the future of Colin Campbell Court is once again in the melting pot after the city council announced that it had granted an option to a local developer to purchase the site. There is no doubt that the West End needs some good news and it is to be hoped that if redevelopment of Colin Campbell Court goes ahead it will be to the benefit of retailers in that part of the city and also the City Market. At the same time this is happening plans have also been approved for two huge developments of student accommodation in the city centre, including a 22-storey block at Beckley Court - making it the tallest building in the city. Overall it’s good news for the city that developers are now ready to invest literally tens of millions of pounds on schemes in Plymouth and bodes well for 2015 and beyond. Hope you enjoy our first issue of this, our 11th year!

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Publishers: Chris Girdler and Ian Pilkington Editor: Debbie Girdler Designers: Sven Lauch and Naomi Girdler Photography: Roy Perring Contributors: Jon Morcom; Walter Combstock; Anthony Goord; Fiona Newton; Derek Anderson; Laura Joint; Dr Mike Burden Advertising sales: Naomi Shearer, Sarah Simpson, Tendai Chetse and Dave Simpson Distribution: Tony Hodges and Liviu Stanciu Finance: Karen Pilkington and Kim Craig Front cover: Ben Palmer and Francesca McBean celebrate the opening of their new restaurant, The Greedy Goose, formerly Tanners. Photo: Roy Perring. Contacts: Editorial Tel: 01752 225623 e-mail: chris@cornerstonevision.com Advertising Tel: 01752 225623 e-mail: karen@cornerstonevision.com

The views expressed Im weißen Feld derin the plymouth magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is takenSie to ensure the accuracy of all Anzeige können information contained in this magazine. However, the publishers do not accept any liability Ihre Händleradresse for any advice or information included in the magazine. ergänzen. The Plymouth Magazine is distributed free to 44,000 homes across Plymouth each month, with a further 2,000 copies strategically placed in leisure and retail outlets in Plymouth, You can your deaSaltash andenter other locations. ler address in Published by Cornerstone Vision, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth PL3 4PY the01752 white225623 box inFax the01752 673441 Tel advertisement.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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CONTENTS JANUARY 2015 EDITION

MEGHAN NAILS IT!

Entrepreneur Meghan Potts proves that it’s possible to overcome all sorts of adversities and achieve your dream if you are determined enough.

EYES ON MAKE-UP

Rosie Finnigan of Salon X with a stepby-step guide to making the most of eye make up and creating a great look for daytime or nightime.

NEW MEETS OLD

GET ADVENTUROUS

Chef Ben Palmer and his partner Francesca have launched the city’s newest restaurant in one of Plymouth’s oldest buildings.

Travel expert Anthony Goord looks at the growing interest in adventure and activity holidays for young and old alike.

WHAT’S ON

Our comprehensive What’s On section has details of all the events coming up in the Plymouth area over the next few weeks.

PASSION FOR PAINT

We meet Heather Porter of Millbridge-based Tilly’s who has a passion for helping homeowners to rejuvenate old furniture with paint.

Hair Makeup Beauty Nails Tanning Weddings

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www.salonx.co.uk The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

WOMEN AT WORK

From charity work to running her own business, Meghan’s got it nailed There’s more than one route to becoming a successful businesswoman. For Meghan Potts, the journey has taken in charity work in South Africa, an abusive marriage, juggling the myriad responsibilities of being a single mum, and learning new skills which make the most of her creative talents and love of art. Meghan has just opened up Nail Candy, a nail bar on the Ridgeway at Plympton, where she and her two trained technicians, Lucy Dolman and Ashleigh Fullard, create freehand nail designs and acrylic extensions for their customers. For the start point of Meghan’s story, we have to go back to 2005, when she left Hele’s School at the age of 16 to pursue her passion for charitable work: “It’s always been very important to me to use whatever I’ve got to help other people,” explained Meghan. “So when I had the chance to go to South Africa to help two cousins with their charity, I took it. The charity was based in Durban and worked with street kids and AIDS orphans. “The three months I was there opened my eyes to things; it was the moment when everything you see on TV suddenly becomes real. We were delivering food to communities in an area called The Valley of a Thousand Hills. Young children were running households because they’d lost their parents to HIV/AIDS. “After that experience, I felt very passionately that I wanted to do charity work to help communities such as the ones in South Africa. It was my dream – but it didn’t happen.” Meghan fell pregnant when she was 18 and married the father of her three children. After suffering domestic abuse over a period of time, she divorced him in 2012 – leaving her to bring up the children as a single mother: “But I didn’t want to rely on anyone else,” said Meghan. “I wanted to provide for my children.

The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

Meghan Potts...successful entrepreneur

“I first started to learn how to be a nail artist when my husband, who had complete control of the money, wouldn’t allow me to have my nails done. So I started to do them myself. Over two to three years I learned about the best products and then I got my qualification.” A £250 grant from the Prince’s Trust set Meghan on her way – and she hasn’t looked back: “I worked from a spare room at home, which meant I could still be with the children. I put a business page up on Facebook and each time I did someone’s nails I posted a photo. From that, it all went crazy and I needed an extra pair of hands.” Two pairs, actually. Lucy and Ashleigh were both customers looking for jobs they’d enjoy and Meghan has given them the chance to shine. The team specialises in hand-painted designs, using tiny brushes – many customers turn up with an outfit so that they can have nails to match. As if running a business and bringing up a young family wasn’t enough, Meghan has also received training as a facilitator for the Freedom Programme used by the Plymouth Domestic Abuse Service so she can help other women going through what she experienced. In 2013, she created a charity calendar to raise money for the service.

just at special occasions.” Things are going to get even busier for Meghan in 2015, with the arrival of a baby with her partner Mat, who she met in 2013. It’s another happy twist to her story, which she hopes can act an inspiration to others: “I left school at 16, became pregnant at 18 and had an abusive marriage. But because I was passionate about something and worked really hard, I’ve achieved what I wanted. “There are a lot of people out there who don’t pursue their passions because they think it’s impossible. But that doesn’t have to be the case.” Nail Candy is at 96a The Ridgeway, Plympton. Contact 07572 619112 www.facebook.com/ nailcandyplymouth

Some of the women in the calendar were also survivors of domestic abuse and all of the women were pictured with nail extensions from Nail Candy. Meghan has also been on a counselling course with the charity SALT (Sexual Abuse Listening Therapy) and enjoyed doing nails for those at the Women’s Refuge. Instead of working with a charity this Christmas, Meghan and her team asked for nominations of people who deserved a bit of pampering: “We were inundated. Some were carers, some were going through cancer treatment, and others were just having a tough time. I’d like to have these events on a regular basis, not

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

BEAUTY MATTERS

Five steps to smokey eyes Rosie Finnigan, creative director at salon X in Beacon Park, Plymouth has teamed up with Plymouth Magazine to write a regular hair, makeup and beauty feature. Rosie’s experience in these fields has gained her essential tips and tricks, which she uses on a daily basis and would like to share with Plymouth Magazine readers.

In my previous article, Great value for Makeup, 1 I looked at supermarket brand products that really do work, I would like to show you how to create a simple but effective bronze smoky eye using the products that I recommended. I create this look on 90% of my makeup clients and it’s a look I personally enjoy wearing day to day. The beauty of this makeup is that you can create a day and nighttime look using exactly the same products but just by applying less or more. It also works perfectly with all eye colours, skin types and ages, so why not give it a go? To show the 5 Smoky Eye Effective Steps I have created the makeup on the gorgeous Plymouth based Olympic diver, Tonia Couch. First of all before creating the smoky eye makeup, I prepare the face by applying Loreal Illuminati Magique foundation, £10.99 using a Real Techniques Expert Face Brush £8.99, and set in 3 place using Barbra Daly Light Illusion Powder Highlighter, £7 to give the skin a flawless finish.

Step 4 Apply liquid or pencil eyeliner across the top eyelid. I always advise clients to start one third of the way across from the inside of the eyelid, this creates a softer look to the makeup and opens up the eyes 4 more. A quick tip is to stretch the skin at the outer corner of the eye using your index finger, this will give a smoother surface to draw the eyeliner onto.

Step 1 Using a MAC 217 blending brush, £17, I apply a L’oreal Colour Riche eyeshadow £5.99 in Opalescent onto the inner eyelid and blend across to create a base and also highlight the inner corners of the eyes. I also blend a soft line underneath the eyebrows to highlight the brow bone. Step 2 Using Barbara Daly Longwear Bronze Eyeshadow, £6.75 I run the product from half way across the eyelid to the outer corner. Using a blending brush I work the product upwards no further than halfway across the eyelid in small circular movements to create a soft blend.

The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

Step 3 Using the Barbara Daly Longwear Eyeshadow stylo pen, draw the product in a neat line beneath the lower eyelashes. This will create the smoky effect and also creates a stronger eye shape. If the product looks too dark run a cotton bud across to soften the effect.

Step 5 To finish off the look I apply Max Factor 2000 Calorie mascara to the upper and lower eyelashes and use a large blending brush to ensure that all the eyeshadow has blended perfectly. And there you have it, the perfect smoky eye makeup!

If you would like to contact Rosie about hair, makeup or beauty queries or questions you may have then don’t hesitate to contact her at Salon X on 01752 500101. Or alternatively you can find more information and prices on the Salon X website www.salonx.co.uk.

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CHARITY MATTERS

Enjoy coffee, cake and fun with friends and colleagues to raise vital funds for St Luke’s One of the most popular ways to support St Luke’s Hospice in Plymouth is to host a coffee morning. St Luke’s coffee mornings have recently had a complete makeover and a comprehensive pack to support groups and individuals every step of the way. The coffee morning pack includes a poster to promote the event, recipes for some scrumptious cakes, fun games to play and loads of ideas to make sure the St Luke’s coffee morning stands out from the rest. Armed with the special packs, St Luke’s is inviting individuals and groups to hold a coffee morning in February. Raising over £14,000 last year, St Luke’s are encouraging homes, groups and businesses to help make this year even bigger. Assistant community fundraiser at St Luke’s, Rebecca Bristow said: “We want everybody in Plymouth, Tavistock and the South Hams drinking coffee, socialising and raising money for St Luke’s. New for 2015 is an orange ‘spotty’ collecting box to take pride of place on the coffee table.St Luke’s have also made it really easy to pay in page.pdf funds raised the event with an PLYMOUTH MAG half 13/12/2014after 19:03:42 online payment facility.

Winter

Last February, while the whole community was uniting to host a coffee morning, St Luke’s were providing specialist care for 839 patients at home, in hospital and at the Turnchapel hospice. These patients were probably living locally and would have directly benefited from the money raised through a coffee morning. Nearly 650 of these patients lived in Plymouth – including Plympton and Plymstock. Coffee mornings made it possible for 278 of these patients to be cared for in their own home. 75 patients had access to specialist care from the rural areas of Dartmoor (Tavistock and Yelverton), 68 in the South Hams (Ivybridge, Brixton, Modbury) and a further 51 people as far as Kingsbridge and Salcombe. One in five local people will be diagnosed with a terminal illness at some point in their lives. By hosting a St Luke’s coffee Morning it can make a real difference. “We need to raise over £4 million each year to continue to offer this expert care to local people for free and we can only do it with your help,” added Rebecca.

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FOOD MATTERS

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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FOOD MATTERS

New skipper at The Fisherman’s Arms The Fisherman’s Arms on the Barbican has just signed up new owner Donna Phillips. Donna decided to take the plunge when the Fisherman’s Arms, a former St Austell brewery house, came up for grabs. The pub, which is in Lambhay Street, had been gaining a reputation as a gastro pub, but this was followed by its closure in February. Donna grew up in public houses with her parents who ran pubs in the city for many years. For the past 10 years Donna has been working as a door supervisor but admits that her dream has always been to run her own business. “My parents told me, whatever you do, don’t buy a pub! But as we have got nearer to completion, I think Dad has more or less put himself fulltime on the rota! He can’t wait to get behind the bar again – I’m thinking the cellar!” Donna has risked everything to make this dream a reality. She has given up both of her jobs as former head doorman at The Union Rooms and as cover supervisor at Stoke Damerel Community College and sold her home in order to invest in her own business. She is very focused on

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meeting the needs of the local market and offering a pub that customers really want. This has been evidenced as she has trudged around the Barbican and the Hoe, delivering letters inviting customers to complete a survey telling her exactly what they wanted from their local pub. She received nearly ninety replies which proves that there are customers out there that appreciate being listened to and just want a good local pub. Donna has found that the majority of customers appear to be looking for a range of activities, real ales and affordable food. Most of all a comfortable environment. She is pleased to say that she intends to stock all the popular drinks voted for in her survey. The majority of respondents wanted good value food. However several would like a gastro pub. “At the moment I think have to focus on what I can do well from the start, so I think my priority is going to be on my cellar and offering food that is good value for money, but I have a few ideas in the pipeline and some potential partnerships that may mean that I can satisfy both requests. All I can say at this moment is watch this space, I am in the business of cultivating pearls!”

The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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Talented chef Ben aims to make The Greedy Goose the top restaurant in Plymouth

One of Plymouth’s oldest buildings is home to one of the city’s newest business ventures.

Top chef Ben Palmer and his partner Francesca McBean have taken over the historic Prysten House - previously occupied by Tanners restaurant for the last 15 years. They have relaunched the restaurant as The Greedy Goose and are determined to set the highest standards of service and cuisine. Award-winning Ben said: “It has always been my ambition to run my own restaurant and Chris and James Tanner have given me that opportunity.” He added that the legal process involved in taken over the premises had taken several months, but once the deal was agreed Ben and Francesca opened The Greedy Goose within five days of the Tanners moving out at the beginning of November. “It was frantic time, but we had a lot of the elements in place,” said Ben, “and we couldn’t wait to get started.” Ben, a former Masterchef Professionals quarter finalist, previously worked for the Tanners as head chef at the Barbican Kitchen and immediately prior to launching The Greedy Goose was executive chef at the luxury Glazebrook House hotel in South Brent. In fact, Ben has retained his links with the Glazebrook

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House and remains as its executive chef, alongside running his new venture in Plymouth. Ben grew up in Cornwall and wanted to be a chef from a young age. “With so much fresh fish, seafood and other wonderful local ingredients there was no doubt in my mind that I wanted to be a chef one day.” He started working in a restaurant at the tender age of 16 and after studying catering at college gained experience working alongside some of the top chefs in London, the Cotswolds and other parts of the country. He secured his first post as head chef at a fish restaurant in Looe and later worked at the four-star Barclay House Hotel, which boasted a 2 AA Rosette restaurant. It was while at the Barclay House in 2011 that Ben not only made his name on Masterchef, but also met his partner Francesca, who was working at the hotel. The couple gained further experience working together in Salcombe and later at Glazebrook House. They have hardly had a chance to draw breath since launching The Greedy Goose. “We have been exceptionally busy,” said Ben, “and have been fully booked most days. The New Year is looking promising as well with a lot of reservations already in January and February.” Several of the front of house team who worked at Tanners have stayed on, including assistant manager Fanny Dufour. However, Ben has recruited his own team of five talented young chefs. “I have worked with all of them before and they are all under the age of 24, each with their own skills and specialities,” he said. The Greedy Goose menu highlights the culinary skills of Ben and his young team. “It’s modern British food with a contemporary twist on classic dishes,” said Ben. “We use only the best ingredients the region has to offer, offering sophisticated but unpretentious dining, big on flavour and technical skill. Our menu reflects the seasons and also includes daily specials. “We like to think we have relaxed the atmosphere here but still do top-class food, within a more informal dining experience.”

The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

Assistant manager Fanny Dufour..seven years at Prysten House

FOOD MATTERS

Mouthwatering....Creedy carver duck (above) and lemon and passionfruit posset

Ben and Francesca...aiming to be the No 1 restaurant in Plymouth

The Greedy Goose offers diners a mouth-watering lineup of dishes with an extensive choice of starters, mains, sides, puddings and speciality after dinner treats. There is the option to choose a two course set menu at £17, or three courses for £20 with selected choices from the main menu. The set menu option is available at lunchtimes and in the evening. Francesca said the couple’s aim is to appeal to all visitors to the city centre. “We want people to feel they can pop in here if they’ve finished work or have been shopping but also for celebrations and more formal events,” she said. Ben added: “Our aim is to be the No 1 restaurant in

Plymouth and eventually to expand the brand into other locations.” The Greedy Goose is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 12 noon to 2.30pm at lunchtime and 6pm until late in the evenings. Booking is advisable weekdays and essential at weekends.

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The Greedy Goose, Prysten House, Finewell St, Plymouth Tel 01752 252001 web www. thegreedygoose.co.uk

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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PLYMOUTH MATTERS

Marketing specialist Leila joins the Duke of Cornwall’s senior management team Plymouth’s Duke of Cornwall Hotel has strengthened its management team with the appointment of an experienced marketing and communications professional. Leila Nottage takes up the post of director of marketing at the iconic hotel at the beginning of February after spending eight years as a television producer and five years in the charitable sector in a variety of PR, communications and fund-raising roles. Leila, who lives in Peverell with her husband and twin daughters, said: “I am delighted to be joining the team at the Duke of Cornwall and really excited about the challenge. “It is one of Plymouth’s finest hotels with a long and proud history and I am looking forward to playing my part in its future success.” Duke of Cornwall director Jon Morcom said: “2014 was a landmark year for us as we celebrated the 150th anniversary of the hotel. It was an incredibly successful year in every respect and we want to build on that by raising our profile even further. “We have worked with Leila in the past in her role with local charities and have always respected her professional

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

approach and communication skills. “We are delighted that she is joining us and are confident that she will increase awareness of what we have to offer within the business community and the wider public in Plymouth.” Jon said that Leila will be overseeing the Duke of Cornwall’s social media and website activities, promoting the hotel to corporate clients and developing its weddings business. “We have been looking to appoint a marketing professional for some time and wanted someone who was not only familiar with what we have to offer, but also understands how to promote and develop the brand.” Jon and fellow director Walter Combstock were part of a four-strong team who took over the hotel in a management buyout in 2001. One of the co-owners left shortly after the acquisition and the team suffered a major blow when the fourth member, Liam Smith, died in a road accident in 2008. Walter said: “Liam looked after sales and marketing and we have never replaced that role in the senior management team until now. “Jon is incredibly busy not only as a director of the hotel but also as chair of Conference Plymouth, board member of the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership and trustee of a local charity. He is also on the steering group of the new Studio School and is heavily involved in working with City College Plymouth. “We are also patrons of the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce and a major sponsor of Plymouth Raiders basketball team. “We have not been able to fully maximise the potential of all this activity, but are confident that Leila’s experience and local connections will ensure that we will do so in the future.” Prior to her new role at the Duke of Cornwall Leila was fundraising, PR and communications manager for Jeremiah’s Journey, a local, self funded charity that offers support and information to children and their families who have experienced or are anticipating the death of someone special. She previously spent four years with CHICKS, a national children’s charity. Leila said: “I am sad to be leaving Jeremiah’s Journey, which is a truly fantastic charity, but felt that I could not turn down the opportunity to be involved with the Duke of Cornwall Hotel. “It is an iconic institution in the city which has undergone a fantastic period of refurbishment and improvement under Jon and Walter’s direction. I believe there is huge potential to develop its business even further, particularly in the corporate and weddings market. “With ‘staycations’ proving so popular and Plymouth’s increasing profile as Britain’s Ocean City, I believe the Duke of

PLYMOUTH MATTERS

Jon Morcom welcomes new director of marketing Leila Nottage

Cornwall has a lot to offer guests not only from Plymouth, but also from the rest of the UK.”

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For further information contact the Duke of Cornwall Hotel Tel 01752 275850 www.thedukeofcornwall. co.uk

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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WHAT’S ON

Theatres & Shows

Wicked is on stage at the Theatre Royal in January and February

choreogrpaher George Balanchine, Jessica Lang’s Lyric Pieces and the dominatingly energetic Upper Room. A high-octane evening!

The Lyric Royal Parade Plymouth Box Office 01752 267222 www.theatreroyal.com Dec 19 - Jan 17 JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Book early to climb into the best seats for the Theatre Royal’s spectacular pantomime. With giant laughs, spectacular special effects, stunning costumes and lots of audience participation this magical family show will be everything you would expect from the South West’s biggest pantomime.

March 26 - 28 BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET - COPPÉLIA What is at the heart of a woman? Eccentric toymaker Dr Coppélius wants to know, and he’s planning to bring his mechanical doll, Coppélia, to life - he just needs the right spell. Peter Wright’s enchanting production of this joyous and witty ballet is an everpopular celebration of love, with a sparkling score and breathtaking choreography.

Jan 20 - Feb 14 WICKED In a brilliantly witty re-imagining of the stories and characters created by L. Frank Baum in ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’, Wicked tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two sorcery students. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfil their destinies as Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.

March 31 WELSH NATIONAL OPERA’S CHORUS! Chorus! is a fully staged extravaganza as some of opera’s greatest moments. The talents of soprano Lesley Garrett, centre stage with the stunning WNO Chorus, make this a uniquely entwined and magnificent spectacle. Lesley’s natural rapport with an audience reaches far beyond the opera house. Her superb voice, in union with the Chrous, brings every song to life in a delightful cocktail of music and performance.

Feb 19 - 28 REBECCA Rebecca is timeless: the book beloved by generations and the iconic Alfred Hitchcock film a classic of the genre. Now Rebecca bursts onto the stage! Emma Rice, the award winning director, has created a spellbinding new production of Daphne du Maurier’s masterpiece which conjures Cornish romance and theatrical magic. March 2 - 14 THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT TIME Christopher, fifteen years old, has an extraordinary brain - exceptional at maths while ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. When he falls under suspicion of killing Mrs Shears’ dog, it takes him on a journey that upturns his world… This thrilling new stage play is based on the award winning novel by Mark Haddon, adapted by Simon Stephens and directed by Marianne Elliott.

accident prone thesps embark on a thrilling adventure to Neverland with hilariously disastrous results. Terrific fun for all ages, don’t miss this hysterical laugh out loud comedy. March 17 - 21 THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! Following a smash-hit West End season, the tea guzzling tiger is basic on the road in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem… expect to be surprised!

March 16 - 21 PETER PAN GOES WRONG The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society set out to present J.M. Barrie’s classic tale of Peter Pan, but as the title suggest, everything that can go wrong… does, as the

March 24 - 25 BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET - MOVING STATESIDE Three ballets spanning nearly a century of US creativity, from George Balanchine’s earliest American creation to one of the Company’s most recent commissions, Moving Stateside, features Serenade, a stunning piece of pure dance from master-

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WHAT’S ON

plans. April De Angelis’ After Electra is a deeply moving and blisteringly witty black comedy challenging what it means to be a mother, and exploring how the choices we make can change our lives forever.

Drum Theatre ROYAL PARADE PLYMOUTH Box Office 01752 267222 Dec 2 - Jan 17 GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS They only went out for a stroll… to let the food cool down. Ten minutes, tops. But when the three bears got home the house was a mess and Baby Bear’s porridge had vanished completely! And that was just the beginning! Broken chairs, unmade beds and a mysterious visitor who takes Baby Bear on a breathtaking adventure that turns his house and his world upside-down! Jan 23 - 24 PLATFORM 15 A raft of human experience plays out in this surprising collection of short new plays from People’s Company members. Directed as rehearsed readings with an ensemble cast of local professional actors. Jan 29 - Feb 14 MERIT 2013. The reality of the financial

crisis is hitting hard - the bankers are getting filthy rich whilst others are left unable to support their families, being evicted from their houses on the brink of desperation. A subtle game of cat and mouse, split loyalties and questionable morals; Alexandra Wood’s thrilling and darkly funny new play looks at the complexities of a mother daughter relationship, the growing disparity between rich and poor - and one girl who is stuck in between. Feb 17 - 21 MICE ON SKATES Grabbing cheese is not as easy as it used to be; cats are definitely getting faster! Then one day two ingenious mice discover that putting wheels on your feet makes you unstoppable… literally!

Adapted from the original story by Sylvia hunt, Mice on Skates features delightful puppets created by puppet maestro Marc Parrett. Mice on Skates is about friendship and adventure and is chock full of songs, surprises… and CHEESE! Feb 25 - 28 WHAT HAPPENS TO HOPE AT THE END OF THE EVENING The latest collaboration between long-term friends and award winning theatre makers Tim Crouch and Andy Smith. It is a story about this evening, one evening and every evening; a story of two men meeting in the middle of their lives, and at the outer edges of their friendship. As they strive for common ground as they fight and fail - as the wine is drunk and the world falls apart - the possibility of theatre as a place for community and change comes alive. March 3 - 7 BROKE Question: Sally is British and broke. If Britain owes over £900 billion in national debt and Sally has been on minimum wage for most of her working life with the interest of her debt being equal to her monthly outgoings, then who is more broke, Britain or Sally? Based on interviews taken across the UK in 2014, multi award winners The Paper Birds explore, with real life stories from the front line of poverty and debt, what it means to be broke in this visually stunning new production. A heartfelt and urgent look at the debt of a Nation from displaced families to gambling addiction to beans on toast. March 12 - 28 AFTER ELECTRA It’s Virgie’s birthday, and at 84, she is bucking conventions with a very surprising trick up her sleeve. But always a more committed artist than mother, Virgie has not reckoned on her family and friends’ determination to thwart her distinctly unusual birthday

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

March 31 SIMON WESTON: MY LIFE, MY STORY On the second of April 1982 Argentina invaded the Falkland Islands - it was a war of a generation and one that many people will never forget. In one of the most horrific moments of the conflict, HMS Sir Galahad was bombed; aboard at the time was Simon Weston OBE. This was an event which would change his life forever. Against the odds, Simon escaped the burning and buckled ship, suffering 46% burns to his body. Simon Weston; My Life, My Story is a truly inspirational show about one man’s journey from the front life of war and on the edge of death, to today being a happy and contented father, grandfather and national treasure.

Castle Street, Plymouth BOX OFFICE: 01752 267131 www.barbicantheatre.co.uk Dec 12 - Jan 4 THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ After the sell-out success of the hilarious ‘A Christmas Carol’, much loved clowns Le Navet Bete and the Barbican Theatre are back this Christmas with the ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’! Join Dorothy and Toto on their fantastical travels along the Road of Yellow Bricks meeting the usual suspects along the way - Tin Man, Lion and Scarecrow - as well as some you might not expect! Will they make it to the Emerald City? Will the Wicked Witch of the West stop them in their tracks? Will a Winged Monkey end up in your lap?

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Annika Skoogh appears at the B-Bar in January with her talented jazz trio

Jan 7, Feb 4 COMEDY NIGHT Some light relief with the best stand-ups on the UK circuit. Line up featuring: Matt Price, Stephen Carlin with compere: Stephen Bailey and Chris Copping.

Jan 22 FORKED: POETRY AND SPOKEN WORD Poetry to inspire, delight and provoke. Every other month those clever people at Apples and Snakes present an evening of wonderful spoken word performance.

Jan 8 ALEX JAMES Enjoy a beautiful relaxed evening of classical guitar in a unique Thai noodle bar. Jan 9, Feb 6 HAMER & CO Talented guitarists Rich Hamer and Frank Hamer appear with a whole band of fantastic special guests, playing everything from smokin’ hot to silky smooth jazz. Jan 14, 28, Feb 11, 25 CAFE ACOUSTICA B-bar’s fortnightly showcase of unplugged talent, hosted by singer-songwriter Jessie Mullen.

country blues, tin pan alley jazz and protest songs - from his rare instrument, Geoff Lakeman is a leading international exponent of the rare Crane Duet Concertina. Reviewers have praised his witty delivery and stagecraft and his deep love and knowledge of the music he performs.

a passion for swing and jazz and the great American song-book writers. From Gershwin and Porter to Goodman and Ellington to Nat King Cole and Sinatra they play a wide range of music and styles mostly from the swing, jazz and songs of the 30’s, 40’s, 50’s and even the 60’s.

Jan 15 GEOFF LAKEMAN Known as the ‘dude with the squeezebox’ who can tease everything - from Irish tunes,

Jan 16 METROPOLIS SWING QUARTET Based in Plymouth, MSQ is a quartet of musicians who share

Jan 21 HAUNT THE WOODS Haunt the Woods are a folk band from the Shires of Devon and Cornwall who effortlessly

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

Jan 23 SOME LIKE IT HOT Vintage and contemporary swing. Played with flair, personality and panache. Danceable delights, steamy songs and tantalising tunes! Jan 29 THOMAS FORD Electrifying blues talent in the form of this harp-playing, hard blues singing solo performer. Born in a field 20-something years ago, Thomas Ford is a blues shouter, a guitar picker and a harmonica fire

Theatres & Shows

breather. His energetic live shows have taken him from Bodmin to Berlin, his records have sold from the Eastern Block to the East Indies and has been played on radio shows from Luton to Laos. Mixing delta blues traditions with nu-blues songwriting, this one man trio has been hailed as ‘the rising star of British blues’. Jan 30 ANNIKA SKOOGH TRIO This dynamic jazz trio, featuring the distinctive and soulful vocals of Annika Skoogh, the superb Matt Carter on keys and Al Swinger on bass, will be playing standards you know and love plus some unexpected songs. Expect to hear effortless improvisation, tight rhythms delivered with passion and high energy. Feb 19 RHYMEWARP WITH MAMA TOKUS Hosted by the inimitable Mama Tokus and bringing you an excellent array of talent, these nights will be a unique experience not to be missed. Mama 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.

Millbay Road, Plymouth Box Office: 0845 146 1460 Feb 4 JASON MRAZ One of the world’s hardest working and most beloved artists, Jason Mraz’s journey has propelled him from the San Diego coffee house scene to arenas, amphitheatres and stadiums all over the world. Moreover, Jason has proven a truly diverse creative presence. A dedicated surfer, farmer, photographer and songwriter, Mraz is first and foremost a committed global citizen. His impassioned social activism and philanthropic efforts span wide-ranging environmental advocacy and ardent support for LGBT equality. Though it all, Jason Mraz continually confirms and celebrates music’s myriad forms and miraculous power, inspiring and delighting his countless fans around the world he calls home. Feb 6 COLLABRO Michael Auger, Richard Hadfield, Jamie Lambert, Thomas Leak and Matthew Pagan only formed a

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WHAT’S ON

Theatres & Shows sold-out season at the Edinburgh Festival. A firm favourite with his legendary performances, Omid’s stand-up awards include; ‘Time Out Award’ and ‘EMMA Award’ for Best Stand Up and nominated for the ‘South Bank Award’. Feb 20 KATHERINE JENKINS Katherine Jenkins, OBE, is the world’s most prolific classical crossover artist. This year sees the release of her tenth studio album ‘Home Sweet Home’. In 2003, when she was 23 years old, she signed the biggest-ever recording contract for a classical artist with Decca and has since become the premiere ambassador of bringing classical music to a mainstream audience. She is cherished as one of Britain’s favourite singers, equally at home performing in her homeland Wales, or performing on international TV shows such as The X Factor.

Kaiser Chiefs back in Plymouth Kaisers Chiefs, who headlined at the MTV Crash on Plymouth Hoe last year are back in the city on February 9 when they are on stage at the Pavilions

month prior to their audition for Britain’s Got Talent and came together over their shared love of musical theatre. In February their lives changed forever when they performed ‘Stars’ from Les Misérables and received

a unanimous standing ovation from the judges and audience at their first audition in London. Collabro progressed to the final of Britain’s Got Talent and were cast the winners in front of 11 million viewers.

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Feb 8 ROSS NOBLE TANGENTLEMAN Following 14 sell-out tours, the king of improvisational comedy is back with another mind-blowing UK tour. Ross Noble will be showcasing his talent in brand new UK show, Tangentleman. With an on-stage presence like no other, his exuberance, spontaneity and cerebral style have established him as one of Britain’s best-loved comedians. The master surrealist uses an infinite imagination and plenty of tomfoolery, which is sure to have audiences in fits of laughter. Feb 9 KAISER CHIEFS A new single from Kaiser Chiefs has been sent to the radio in the UK, ‘My Life’ is the third single from the band’s Number 1 album Education, Education, Education & War released earlier this year via Fiction Records. Following a run of summer festivals, the band can also confirm a UK headline tour in February 2015, with nine new shows added to the previously announced London The O2 Arena and Leeds First Direct Arena dates.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

Feb 24 PAUL CARRACK Legendary Sheffield-born singer, songwriter and former frontman of Ace, Squeeze and Mike & The Mechanics returns to the road following his widely acclaimed recent album release ‘Rain or Shine’, a mix of new original songs and classic tracks. With a back catalogue of hits to his name including “How Long”, “Tempted” and “The Living Years”, Paul’s marvelously soulful voice is known to millions around the world. His songs have been performed by some of the biggest names in music including The Eagles, Diana Ross and Tom Jones and he is constantly in demand as a session keyboardist, having recorded and toured with Elton John, Eric Clapton and BB King. Feb 27 ROYAL BLOOD After tickets for their upcoming UK and Ireland tour sold-out within just two minutes, Royal Blood can now announce details of a major European tour. The confirmation of the tour adds to a phenomenal breakthrough year for the duo, which has already seen their Mercury Prizenominated self-titled debut album hit #1 as the highest charting debut rock album in three years. Royal Blood’s domestic success is also being building internationally with highlights including another #1 in Ireland, Top 10 positions in Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland and on Billboard’s Top Rock Albums, plus Top 20 placings in numerous countries across Europe.

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Chance for boys to show their dance skills Barbican Theatre is teaming up with all-male national touring company, ZoieLogic Dance Theatre, to prove that boys dance is tough, gritty and cool. Barbican Theatre’s highly physical Boys Dance group will work with ZoieLogic in Spring 2015 as they work towards creating performances for national dance festival U.Dance 2015. ZoieLogic Dance Theatre was founded by Artistic Director Zoie Golding who aims to engage male audiences through taking smallscale dance performances to male dominated work environments such as scrap yards, naval docks and factories. Barbican Theatre’s energetic Boys Dance group is for 12+ year olds who want to learn cool lifts and flight moves and develop skill, strength, stamina and confidence. In Spring 2015, Boys Dance members will be working with ZoieLogic Dance Company to learn about their powerful, punchy style. Boys Dance is held on Mondays from 7.30pm – 9pm at Barbican Theatre, Castle Street, Plymouth, PL1 2NJ and costs £60 per term (roughly £6 per class) with bursaries available for people on certain benefits. If you are 12+ and would like to try Boys Dance for yourself, come along to the theatre’s free taster session from 7.30pm – 9pm on Monday January 5.

••

To book a place at the taster session, call 01752 267131 or email info@ barbicantheatre.co.uk. To find out more about Barbican Theatre’s Performance Training workshops, visit www.barbicantheatre.co.uk.

Paul Weller, The Modfather himself is appearing at the Plymouth Pavilions in March

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

Award-winning singer songwriter Ben Howard is paying tribute to his Devon roots with a special South West show at Plymouth Pavilions on April 27, the final date of his UK and Ireland arena tour. His forthcoming 2015 arena tour saw the first London show at Alexandra Palace sell out within minutes, a second date was added which again sold out, resulting in a third going on sale. Ben recently released his critically acclaimed second album, ‘I Forget Where We Were’ which debuted at number 1 in the UK album chart. Local promoters SW1 Productions are delighted that Ben wanted to include a show in the South West, it clearly means a lot to him and the band that they play in their home county

••

To book tickets please visit www.plymouthpavilions. com or call the Box Office on 0845 146 1460.

Theatres & Shows

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Two of the biggest names from the British rock and pop scene for the last 40 years will be appearing in Plymouth in the next few months. Paul Weller, the Modfather himself will be heading to the Plymouth Pavilions on March 5 to kick off his run of Uk tour dates, while the legendary Elvis Costello is lined up to visit the Pavilions on June 24. Paul Weller’s 2015 tour sees him play a more varied selection of towns across the UK than the usual run of arenas. Paul will also be special guest of The Who at Hyde Park on June 26. Having split up The Jam at the height of their powers in 1982 after six era-defining albums, Paul Weller spent the rest of the eighties challenging pop convention with The Style Council releasing five albums during their eclectic career. Forging a solo career in the early nineties Paul Weller was reinstalled as the pre-eminent songwriter of his generation with a total of 11 solo albums to his name and winning a long list of awards including the prestigious Ivor Norvello award for Lifetime achievement in 2010 and the Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music in 2006. Paul’s as yet un-named 12th studio album will be released in the Spring. Meanwhile Elvis Costello is following the success of his solo shows last year with a 21-date UK tour called ‘Detour’. Costello’s solo shows have been some of the most adventurous of his illustrious career. This past year has seen him hit the stage of the legendary Paris venue, l‘Olympia and the Bela Bartok National concert Hall in Budapest. The New York Times said of his solo Carnegie Hall debut in June 2014, “Costello offered something else: a continuing, challenging, intimate engagement with his songs, old and new”. In July, he played the re-opening concert at Brangwyn Hall, Swansea headlined at Kew Gardens and played an intimate show at the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill-onSea before touring the capital cities and small towns of Europe for five weeks in Autumn. Whatever the venue, this is not a show to be missed1

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For more on both events contact the Plymouth Pavilions Box Office on 0845 146 1460 or www. plymouthpavilions.com

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WHAT’S ON

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Music Jan 5 PLYMOUTH CLARION CHOIR Woodford Church Hall, Plympton New Year Party concert for the Woodford Wives Jan 17 EAST CORNWALL BACH CHOIR Saltash Methodist Church Annual Singing Day

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Jan 18 PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB The Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill City Steam Jazz Band. Tickets £9 for visitors - all welcome (Members £7, full time students £5) Full info via 01752 721179 Feb 1 PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB The Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill The Gordon Clark Quartet. Tickets £9 for visitors - all welcome -

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

Feb 18 PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB The Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill The Savannah Jazz Band Tickets £9 for visitors - all welcome (Members £7, full time students £5) Full info via 01752 721179 Feb 21 PLYMOUTH & DISTRICT ORGANISTS’ ASSOCIATION St Matthias Church, North Hill Visit including possible visits to other nearby churches Feb 28 TEN TORS ORCHESTRA Theatre 1, Roland Levinsky Building As part of the Peninsula Arts Contemporary Music Festival 2015: BioMusic. With Simon Ible as conductor. Programme includes Eduardo R Miranda: Corpus Callosum, Alexis Kirke: Orchestral Processing Unit. Full Festival details from www.pacmf.co.uk March 14 UNIVERSITY OF PLYMOUTH CHORAL SOCIETY St. Andrew’s Minister Church Conductor, Simon Ible

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March 25 PLYMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA The Guildhall, Royal Parade Conductor Anne Kimber

March 22 PLYMOUTH PHILHARMONIC CHOIR The Guildhall, Royal Parade Verdi: Requiem. Tickets £17 at the door; child/student £5, £15 in

March 28 DR CLARE GRIFFEL Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery Chair of the South West Early Music Forum and participants. Workshop: participants will learn to sing Catches from the 18th Century. Further details to be confirmed.

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The Plymouth Magazine June 2014

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WHAT’S ON

Music

Katherine is here to hit the high notes Katherine Jenkins,the world’s most prolific classical crossover artist is appearing at the Plymouth Pavilions on February 20.

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After winning singing competitions in her youth, Katherine studied at the Royal Academy of Music, modelled and taught voice. She came to wide public attention in 2003 when she sang at Westminster Cathedral in honour of Pope John Paul II’s silver jubilee. Since 2004, she has released numerous albums that have performed well on British and foreign charts. In both 2005 and 2006, her albums received Classic Brit Awards as Album of the Year. She has also been seen widely in concert, including concerts for British troops in Iraq and Afghanistan; she has also sung at sporting events, on television shows and in support of many charities. Last year saw the release of her tenth studio album ‘Home Sweet Home’. In 2003, when she was 23 years old, she signed the biggest-ever recording contract for a classical artist with Decca and has since become the premiere ambassador of bringing classical music to a mainstream audience. She is cherished as one of Britain’s favourite singers, equally at home performing in her homeland Wales, or performing on international TV shows such as The X Factor. Her stratospheric rise made Katherine the fastest-selling mezzo-soprano ever. All of Katherine’s albums have sold in excess of eight million copies and gone platinum around the world. She has received numerous accolades for her recordings including two Classical BRITS for the coveted Album of the Year Award.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

Tickets available from the Pavilions Box Office on 0845 146 1460 or by visiting www. plymouthpavilions.com

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Open Day 7 February, 10am - 1pm Kings Road PL1 5QG

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Plymouth Magazine 1-4 Page.pdf

22/10/2014

11:50

WHAT’S ON

Spring Sp

New work from some of the UK’s best writers is at the heart of a Wicked season for Spring at the Theatre Royal.

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Productions include a new version of Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca with Kneehigh Theatre, Merit by Alexandra Wood and After Electra by April De Angelis. The smash-hit musical Wicked flies in together with The National Theatre’s The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Top Hat, Barnum, the master of illusion Derren Brown and more. Some of the highlights include: The award-winning smash hit musical Wicked will cast its magical spell over Plymouth from January 20 to February 14 as it continues to break records in London’s West End.

Top Hat

Winner of seven Olivier Awards, the highly acclaimed National Theatre production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the NightTime visits Plymouth on its first ever nationwide tour. It will be performed from March 3 to March 14. The Tiger Who Came to Tea – the best-selling book

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

THEATRE ROYAL

pectacular

about a tea-guzzling tiger – transfers to the stage in a show packed with magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. It runs from March 17 to March 21. Andrew Lloyd-Webber and Tim Rice’s classic musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat inspired by the colourful life of Joseph returns to the stage at the Theatre Royal from April 7 to April 11, The glamour of Hollywood’s golden age comes to the stage in the multi Olivier awardwinning musical Top Hat from April 28 to May 9. The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas is the heartwrenching tale of an unlikely friendship between two innocent boys set during the Second World War, based on the best-selling novel by John Boyne. It runs from May 11 to May 16. This exhilarating musical Barnum is staged from May 26 to June 6 and follows the irrepressible imagination and dreams of Phineas T Barnum, America’s greatest showman starring Brian Conley and Linzi Hateley.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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WHAT’S ON

Major Events

Major Events Various dates LEAGUE 2 FOOTBALL Jan 17 Argyle v Luton Jan 24 Argyle v Morecambe Feb 7 Argyle v Accrington S Feb 14 Argyle v Cambridge Utd Feb 28 Argyle v Bury Mar 7 Argyle v Northampton Mar 21 Argyle v Newport Various dates CHAMPIONSHIP RUGBY Jan 10 Albion v Moseley Jan 31 Albion v Rotherham Feb 15 Albion v London Scottish Feb 21 Albion v Jersey Mar 21 Albion v Yorks Carnegie Various dates BRITISH BASKETBALL LEAGUE Jan 4 Raiders v Worcester Jan 18 Raiders v Cheshire Jan 25 Raiders v London Lions Feb 7 Raiders v Durham Feb 15 Raiders v Cheshire Mar 15 Raiders v London Lions Until Mar 1 WINTER WONDERLAND ICE RINK Plymouth City Centre

Plymouth City Centre Piazza is once again transformed into the annual Winter Wonderland Ice Rink. Jan 10, Feb 14 MONTHLY FOOD AND CRAFT MARKET Devonport Guildhall Devonport Guildhall is working with LEAP Events to offer exciting new monthly food and craft Markets. Come down for plenty of seasonal, locally sourced food, alongside a wide selection of craft supplies, gifts

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and activities for all the family. The Guildhall’s onsite artisan bakery, Column Bakehouse will be open throughout the day selling lunches, light refreshments, sweet treats and their famous signature loaves of fresh bread - everything is handmade on the premises using local and seasonal produce wherever possible! Mar 21 PLYMOUTH SCALE MODEL SHOW This is an annual show, hosted by three local model clubs, which

takes place at the Plymouth Guildhall between 10am and 4pm. Static and radio controlled models, war gaming displays and model railway. Numerous clubs from around the South West (and beyond) will be displaying their talents in scale model making. Various traders will also be there selling models, paints, tools and much more.For further details please contact Ian Chanter at ian. chanter@blueyonder.co.uk or 01752212676.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

WHAT’S ON

EVENTS AT PLYMOUTH CITY MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY, DRAKE CIRCUS 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. SPECIAL EVENTS Lost and Found (U)‚ Jan 3: 1.30pm to 2.30pm. Enjoy a free screening of this BAFTA winning children’s animation, narrated by British Oscar winning actor Jim Broadbent and inspired by the bestselling book by Oliver Jeffers. Free. Advance booking advised. Donations welcome. Frozen (U)‚ Jan 10: 1.30pm to 4pm. See a free screening of Disney’s award-winning film about fearless princess, Anna and her epic journey to find her sister Elsa. Free. Advance booking advised. Donations welcome. WILD ABOUT PLYMOUTH Wriggly Rascals Jan 31: 1.30pm to 3.30pm. Celebrate National Storytelling Week 2015 with creepy crawly specimens from the museum collections, mini-beast craft activities and poems read by author Celia Warren from her book, ‘Don’t Poke a Worm till it Wriggles.’ Free. No need to book. Drop-in. Donations welcome. The Love Bug Feb 14:Come along and discover the hidden lives of mini-beasts in this fun event. Grab the opportunity to use the University labs and microscopes to peer closer into the hidden world of these tiny critters. There will be a competition with prizes to be won!

HALF TERM ACTIVITIES Fabulous Frames Feb 18: 10.30am to 1pm (last entries at 12.30pm). Make a fabulous frame with paper and collage inspired by our Reynolds self-portrait and the other works of art on display in our ‘In The Frame’ exhibition. Free. No need to book. Drop-in. Donations welcome. Plymouth Sound Pictures Feb 19: 10.30am to 1pm (last entries at 12.30pm). Help us make a giant collage of Plymouth Sound and the breakwater and make some mini ones to take home with you too! Free. No need to book. Dropin. Donations welcome. Chinese New Year - The Big Sheep Feb 21: 11am to 12pm, 1.30pm to 2.30pm and 3pm to 4pm. Mark the start of the Year of the Sheep (or Goat, or Ram) with hats, pictures, lanterns and more.

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There’s a free screening of Disney’s award-winning film Frozen at the Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery on January 10.

Free. Advance booking advised. Donations welcome.

both locally and further afield. Using personal photographs from the 5th Earl’s expansive collection, the exhibition invites you to discover his world at Saltram and his life as an international jet-setter.

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

Cotehele Saltash 01579 351346 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele

Jan 11 PEDAL POWER A Sunday social ride. Get on your bike and pedal your way on one of our New Sunday Social bikes rides Have a 2 wheeled adventure through Saltram and the Plym Valley with friends and family. Booking advisable on 07779513322

Feb 16 BUILD AND FLY A KITE Make a kite then fly it up to the highest heights.

Jan 17 WASSAIL! Bring whistles, pan lids and wells as the orchard gets blessed at Wassail. Join in at the Saltram Orchard to scare away the spirits and bless the crop for 2015 in the ancient custom of wassailing. Spend the rest of your evening in the Cafe to sample the fruits of last year’s crop with apple cakes, juice and ciders whilst watching or joining in with the Dartington Morris Men. Feb 28 - March 9

THE 5TH EARL’S PHOTOGRAPHS Meet Montagu Brownlow Parker; 5th Earl, soldier, adventurer and man about town. This photographic retrospective highlights some of ‘Monty’s’ treasured moments from 1911 1949. As an avid photographer Monty documented his discoveries and observations,

The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

Feb 17 to Feb 19 BUSHCRAFT FOR KIDS Come and build a shelter, learn how to safely light a fire and practice some handy survival skills. This activity has been specially designed by Cotehele’s partner Serious Outdoor Skills to be fun, informative and hands-on where youngsters will learn some survival, bushcraft and wilderness skills. There will be numerous outdoor activities to keep participants engaged, active and entertained. Booking essential

Winter woodland rides Winter Bike Rides for all the family are available every Saturday throughout February and March from 10am to 12 noon. The Sports Development Unit has teamed up with the Woodland Wheelers Cycle Club to offer led bike rides for all the family. The rides start at the National Trust Car Park in Plymbridge Woods.The cost is £3 per ride. Bike hire is available at just £3. Woodland Wheelers also organise family rides at the same venue every Sunday between 10am and 12 noon. Kids sports are available along. Join an with organised rides including family woodland rides, mountain bike sessions and basic skill workshops for the younger rider. Bike hire available. Everyone welcome. Under 8s must be accompanied. Just £1 per rider -first ride free.

••

For more details call 07427 699814 or go to www.woodlandwheelers.co.uk

Family Events

Christmas exhibition Christmas cards designed by local children are the focus of a Christmas exhibition at Plymouth Arts Centre. The exhibition, which runs until January 4 features all of the designs created by children from four primary schools in Plymouth, which are part of Plymouth Arts Centre’s Schools Membership Scheme. One design from each school was selected to be printed as part of the Arts Centre’s Christmas card pack, currently being sold to raise money for the Centre’s schools programme, which ensures that teachers and pupils have opportunities to engage with and benefit from contemporary art and cinema. Also at the Barbican-based Centre is a Christmas Artist’s Commission. Artist, Jinjoo Kim was chosen following a call out for proposals from artists earlier this year. The London-based Korean artist, an MA Fine Art graduate from Chelsea College of Art & Design has developed a new work for the cafe space, which will also be exhibited until January 4. Plymouth Arts Centre is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am The Christmas poster – 8.30pm and Sunday, 4.30 – 8.30pm. The gallery is free to visit. design designed by Kalina Ciepla, of Year 5 Plymouth Arts Centre, 38 Looe Street, Plymouth, Tel 01752 206114 at St Andrew’s Primary School. www.plymouthartscentre.org@ PlymArtsCentre

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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WHAT’S ON Jan 17 to Mar 12 OPEN FOR BUSINESS Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery In 2013, Multistory and Magnum Photos commissioned nine of the world’s leading photographers to document contemporary British manufacturing. Their photographs take us from traditional, handmade crafts to modern, intelligent automation; from foundries and assembly lines to research laboratories and high tech cleanrooms, showing an economic sector of extraordinary resilience and diversity. During a period of great economic instability, and where questions are being raised about the strength of western economies within the worldwide market, there has never been a more relevant time to explore the condition of Britain’s manufacturing future. Jan 24 to May 9 BEAUTY AND POWER: PLYMOUTH’S GREATEST GIFT – THE COTTONIAN COLLECTION Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery Celebrate the 100th anniversary of The Cottonian Collection’s arrival at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery. This exhibition provides a unique insight into the stories behind it and brings together some of its most

‘In the Frame: Plymouth’s Portraits Revealed’ delves into the city’s collection, and presents new research about some of the characters who are new or rarely seen. Visitors can to come face-to-face with maritime greats such as Sir Walter Raleigh, George Gibbon, Lieutenant Governor of Plymouth in the 1700s and Lord Robartes, who was the Governor of the Citadel during the Civil War. They will also be able to see important local faces including William Cookworthy, who founded the Plymouth Porcelain factory in 1768, the last town crier of Devonport and members of the Eliot and Edgcumbe families. Self-portraits of artists such as Edward Opie, James Northcote, John Collier and Sir Joshua Reynolds will also feature. The latter is a recent and highly significant acquisition for the Museum and Art Gallery. Showing Reynolds at the age of 23, when he was establishing his career and running a studio in Plymouth Dock (now Devonport), the work was acquired with funding support from the Heritage Lottery Fund, The Art Fund, the V&A Purchase Grant Fund and the Friends of

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Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery. A further section will also show how portraits of children have changed over time, from early depictions of them as heirs to family dynasties to the more relaxed, informal images that we are used to today. In addition, four works in the show are new portraits that have been created by young people from the Plymouth area. The Museum and Art Gallery has organised a number of events to coincide with In the Frame including a programme of family activities, Art Bites and Lunchtime Talks which will run throughout 2015.

••

For full details about the exhibition and events visit the what’s on pages at www.plymouthmuseum.gov.uk.

Mar 28 to May 30 WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR Witness the Natural History Museum’s annual exhibition

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

which celebrates the drama and splendour of the natural world, with striking, creative and thought-provoking wildlife photography. This year’s exhibition marks the 50th anniversary and blends new and historic award-winning images to tell the story of how photographing the natural world has changed. With challenging documentary, intimate portraits, animal behaviour and atmospheric landscapes, ‘Wildlife Photographer of the Year’ showcases the power of images to magnificent effect, bringing the talent and vision of each photographer to all who visit. Admission free. May 23 to Sep 26 FALLEN EMPEROR: NAPOLEON IN PLYMOUTH SOUND IN 1815 In the summer of 1815, for nine dramatic days, HMS Bellerophon was anchored in Plymouth Sound

with the self-styled French Emperor, Napoleon Bonaparte on board. Napoleon had been defeated at Waterloo and surrendered himself into the care of the Royal Navy. The lengthy and costly Napoleonic Wars were over – but what to do with Napoleon now? During the wars, ‘Boney’ had been portrayed as a ‘monster’ and ‘disturber of the peace’ – yet he was a folk-hero to the lower classes of all nations, even those he fought against. The exhibition will be centred on the popular painting from our collections by Jules Girardet and will explore the differing perceptions of Napoleon on his journey to Plymouth. It will also look at the ship (commonly known as the ‘Billy Ruffian’) and the scenes in Plymouth Sound. Why did so many people flock to see Napoleon? Were they curious or sympathetic? Was he a celebrity or a threat?

Exhibitions and Other Events

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Sir Walter Raleigh will be featured in the new exhibition

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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HEALTH MATTERS

How to be successful at getting into shape this year Helpful advice from the Fitness Team at St Mellion

It’s that time of year again where everyone sets out to get in to the best shapes of their lives, with claims of New Year New Me’ and ‘I’ll be your gym buddy’ echoing around New Year’s Eve gatherings around the country. You take the next steps once the realisation that it is January 2015 has kicked in, you’ve signed up to a gym, bought all the gear and scoured the internet for that ‘build muscle and burn fat in six weeks!’ workout. However, the reality is that despite your best intentions, it is more than likely that the majority of those who intend to start incorporating exercise into their daily lives fail to commit to their New Year resolutions in the long term. Here are the top five tips to ensure you are one of those few who do commit and reap the benefits that such a lifestyle change can bring about… 1. Plans and Goals Sit down and make yourself a long term goal, whether this be fitness related, weight related or strength related, it’s down to you. But, once decided on a goal, then devise medium and short term goals that will specifically help you achieving that long term goal. 2. Healthy Eating Healthy eating doesn’t mean abolishing all bad foods nor does it mean eating so little you’re constantly starving. In simple terms, it’s about eating in moderation. Write a one week food diary then analyse it. What can you substitute, what

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

could you do without, what should you be having more of? Remember to use short, medium and long term goals as well! 3. Staying Motivated One of the best ways to stay motivated is to find a gym buddy. This can be a family member, friend, partner or someone you’ve just met at the gym. Alternatively finding a healthy role model may encourage you to continue with your programme. Don’t forget to tick off when you’ve achieved your short term goals and reward yourself every now and again! 4. Get advice from professionals The staff at your gym, your GP, dieticians are all there to help! Feel free to ask them for guidance on a diet plan or exercise programme. Alternatively, there are many great information sources online such as the NHS and British Heart Foundation. Be sure to keep up to date with the relevant literature! 5. Don’t Give Up Finally, look back to a year ago, imagine you had started then and envisage where you’d be now. Stick at it, plug away at the short term goals, reaching those medium term goals and ultimately achieving your long term goals! Always remember why you started.

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For more information contact the St Mellion Fitness Team on 01579 352022 or visit www.st-mellion.co.uk

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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BUSINESS MATTERS

Impressive new store and a new era for family business Drakes Jewellers DRAKES DOWN THE YEARS.... 1950

1957

1998

2006

2013

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Drakes Jewellers opened the doors to their newly-branded and newly-located store at the beginning of December. Now situated on the upper floor of Drake Circus Shopping Centre, Plymouth, the new Drakes store boasts an 82 feet long sleek glass frontage, with a contemporary interior to match. A grand central entrance gives ways to two distinctive sides of the store: a multi brand section and a Diamond and Wedding Lounge. On the branded side, customers can enjoy a fun and lively environment whilst choosing from some of the most iconic and popular fashion jewellery brands to include: Swarovski, Thomas Sabo, Links of London, Lily & Lotty, Bulova, Emporio Armani, Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs and many more. In contrast, the Diamond and Wedding Lounge allows customers to choose jewellery in a more relaxed and even romantic environment with an array of diamond and gemstones collections including Annamaria Cammilli, Fei Liu & Drakes Diamond Designs. Customers have already described this area as a ‘little oasis’. Drakes welcomed family, friends, customers and press to a VIP launch event with bubbly, canapés by local caterer Edmond Davari and exclusive Drakes goody bags for all guests. Managing director John Hirshman cut the ribbon on the night to signify a new era for Drakes, John said: “We first saw the hoarding down on Monday and it was such an emotional experience. Our team have worked their socks off – it doesn’t happen on its own, it’s taken a lot of work from everyone.” The Drakes team Monique and

The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

Andrew Hirshman expressed their gratitude to staff for working hard and helping to make their vision a reality, Drakes director Monique said: “This is the next part of the journey. We have had an amazing few weeks and the team have been unbelievable – it’s not just Andrew and I, it is the whole team, there are so many people to thank.” Many local suppliers were used to bring the Drakes vision to life including: architectural team Andrea Galley and Dan Atkins of Crayon Architecture & Design, SWS Shop fitters and Mykreative Design. Working closely with the Drakes team, a contemporary space was developed to appeal to old and new customers alike, with the main objective, to create a customer experience that people will want to enjoy time and time again. John Hirshman added: “One thing hasn’t changed and that is we are still a family business, the old fashioned type of company that we always maintained we would be. It must be working because we are in our 67th year of trading and hopefully we will go on for a long, long time.”

Above: The impressive new store in Drake Circus Right: Drakes Managing director John Hirshman speaking at the official opening

www.cornerstonevision.com

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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PROPERTY MATTERS

Stamp Duty change is best news for decades

Chancellor George Osborne’s shock shake-up of Stamp Duty is the best news the property market has had for decades. That’s the view of Darren Lawson, managing director of Mansbridge & Balment, one of Plymouth’s leading independent estate agents. “This is the best news in the 26 years I have spent in the property business,” said Darren. “Like so many people in the industry I have always felt that Stamp Duty was wholly unfair and a bad example of poorly thought through, clumsy legislation.” “The changes announced by the Chancellor are great news for everyone in Plymouth, from first time buyers to those looking to make that next move to a property that previously might not have been within their reach financially. “It will mean additional properties coming to the market place, which has to be good news for those looking to make the first step onto the housing ladder.” The old Stamp Duty was based on what was known as the ’slab system’ which meant that if a home fell into a particular band the entire cost of it was taxed at the related rate. A house costing £180,000 attracted stamp duty of £1,800 – unlike income tax, the rate was not just applied to the total above the £125,000 nil rate band. Under the new Stamp Duty rules the slab structure has been scrapped and the tax is now applied like income tax. There will still be no tax on purchases up to £125,000 and above that there are several bands: • Between £125,001 and £250,000 the rate is 2% • Between £250,001 and £925,000 the rate is 5% • Between £925,001 and £1.5m the rate is 10% • Above £1.5m the rate is 12%. Darren said that a significant proportion of first time buyers were looking at properties in the £120,000 to £180,000 price bracket. “Under the new legislation Stamp Duty on a property priced at £180,000 will be £1,100 - £700 less than the previous regime.” (2% tax on the £55,000 above the threshold of £125,000). “This is a real boost for buyers as it reduces the overall cost of the purchase which I am confident will bring more stock into the property pipeline.” Darren said the previously properties priced between £250,000 and £350,000 were ‘blighted’ by Stamp Duty. “Under the old regime Stamp Duty on a property costing £250,000 was 1%, equivalent to £2,500 - but any property sold for more than £250,000 invited tax at 3% which resulted in a property priced at, for example, £260,000 attracting Stamp Duty of £7,800 which was not only a

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

massive leap in costs, but also a huge barrier and disincentive for buyers. It created a void, resulting in very little activity. “There are literally thousands of properties in Plymouth which fall into this price bracket and there is no doubt that these changes will benefit homeowners who are looking to sell their property. Buyers will benefit too.” Darren said that one of his clients arrived in the Mansbridge & Balment’s Mannamead offices just a few minutes after the Chancellor’s announcement. “He had a buyer for his property, his offer on his new property had been accepted at £270,000 and he had come into the office to finalise his mortgage application. “He had not heard the news about the Stamp Duty changes and when I told him he had just saved nearly £5,000 as you can imagine he was absolutely over the moon.” Darren dismissed speculation in the national press that the changes would result in a property boom. “Far from pushing prices up, my view is that it will result in a more balanced and stable market. One of the reasons for the property price inflation over the last 12 to 18 months has been the fact that there have been more buyers than sellers. “Over the last decade we have had banks collapsing, rising unemployment, falling unemployment, recessions and economic growth. However, property supply and demand has always been the most important driver in terms of house price inflation/deflation. “I believe we can now look forward to a period of a stability and more normal market conditions with property price inflation in single figures - like it has been in Plymouth and the South West for the last couple of years. “I believe the Stamp Duty changes will add to the overall feel-good factor and lead to a bright start in 2015. However, the inevitable flurry of activity will settle down around the middle of the year when the market tends to slow down.” Darren said that overall 2014 had been a highly successful year for Mansbridge & Balment’s two offices in the city, with its Mannamead office achieving record levels of sales. “The year started strongly, there was a brief quietening around Easter and then a very slow time in August and September. We believe this was caused by the pressure on families to abide by the Government’s decision to penalise parents who take their children on holiday during term time. “The market picked up again after the school holidays and we have been exceptionally busy in October and November. I expect that there will be a brief hiatus over the Christmas period, but as we speak (Mid-December), we have already agreed a sale a day, which is good for the time of year.” Darren said that Mansbridge & Balment’s commitment to customer service and its ground-breaking “ Black & White”

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Condenser Dryer IDC85 SAVE customer charter had further strengthened the company’s position in the market. “We are rated among the top 50 estate agents out of nearly 13,000 listed nationally on the leading website AllAgents. co.uk, which is a testament to the quality of service offered by the team.” He said that against this background Mansbridge & Balment had launched a new department called ‘Family Matters’ which is designed to help smooth the sale of properties where Probate or a matrimonial breakdown is involved. “These situations can be extremely stressful and involve a whole host of parties including family, relatives, solicitors, executors, trustees and so on. “We are providing our team with training in specialists areas such as bereavement counselling to ensure they understand the sensitivities of these sorts of situations.” “When a property sale is required by clients it is important for all concerned that the best possible price is achieved. To remove stress, hassle and leg work we can arrange a written valuation, house clearance, cleaning, antiquities valuations, drain downs, general maintenance, carpet cleaning, and garden maintenance. “We can even advise on property renovation if it is felt that this would enhance the property value and is practical for your clients to consider. In a nutshell, the service ensures the smoothest, fastest way of achieving a sale at the best possible price.”

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FAMILY MATTERS common sense to anyone looking to grow their own business dream, and make it a firm and sustained reality, Although The Village has experienced lots of competition from larger chains, they have always relied on locally sourced food cooked fresh to order to win back customers time and Guy’s father John took over the running of Crownhill Post time again. Office from Guy’s grandmother, and indeed John remains the With potatoes that come directly from the grower in local Postmaster now, despite Saltash and sustainably sourced being 84 years young, although fish from the UK, their fish and he does accept and rely on a bit chips is their most popular dish, of assistance from his daughters either eat in or takeaway. Sally Hooper and Anna Pascoe. Indeed Kerry believes that As a former deputy Lord Mayor whereas ten years ago they saw and Alderman, John Pascoe a move towards more healthy has passed his passion for and foods (The Village stocks a commitment to Plymouth over salad bar for their sandwiches to his son Guy and his wife Kerry, and paninis which is made who have been in the thick of fresh every day), nowadays the village life in Crownhill for over 25 emphasis is on convenience. years now. As she says, people want It is refreshing to hear about quality food for value for money such a strong local connection, prices, quickly. Its getting with generations of the same harder to provide for your family in business alongside each family, work full time, and get other. Indeed the legacy is set wholesome hot food into your to continue well into the future, loved ones – so the Village aims as Kerry and Guy have invested to make this job as easy as heavily in bringing their business, possible for its customers. the Village Cafe, bang up to date, “We are constantly haggling looking to establish a secure our suppliers to get the best footing for nephew Luke to carry possible prices” said Kerry. on the family inheritance. “Although we don’t have Luke works as manager of the the buying power of the big Village Cafe, which has been retailers, Debbie, who does recently refurbished under all our ordering has a knack Kerry’s direction and enthusiasm. of getting a great deal. We Kerry has achieved a beautiful also work hard to minimise thing – not just harmony working waste, not by leaving food with her husband – Guy was sitting around for hours, but in charge of the workmen and by making everything on our Kerry, the budget – but a modern, all day breakfasts to order, and fresh, completely new look to prepping our salad bar fresh the takeaway and cafe which every morning. has already increased footfall “Common sense dictates that significantly. seasons and weather will make Shiny new signage and a a difference to passing trade revamped exterior have helped and what people want to eat, so with the overall appearance of we’ve learnt to be very flexible. Crownhill Village itself; whilst “We are also scrupulously inside, Kerry has thought hard clean, not just in standard about how to create a warmer, food hygiene training, but in all more comfortable surrounding ways to create an environment for her customers. where I myself, as quite a fussy The space was reconfigured person, would feel relaxed to to close off the back entrance, eat in. All my staff share my keeping the heat in the back standards, which is great for of the building where the new our customers. seating area is situated. This “And we have such nice combined with booth seating and customers,” said Kerry, who is Kerry Pascoe with her nephew Luke plush cushioned areas makes for equally passionate about good a really cosy feel, with plenty of customer service. Her staff, many of space for wheelchairs and pushchairs without losing privacy whom have been on board for years, are trained by her to and warmth. take care of everyone who comes in the door. Its clear that Kerry was delighted with the local building firm she chose, the way Kerry treats her employees means that they are able finishing only two days behind schedule and just slightly over to pass on her polite cheerful ways to the rest of us. budget – a feather in the cap for all wives everywhere! With no vacant shops at present, Guy and Kerry’s faith in Kerry says how pleased she was that she and Guy worked Crownhill Village is paying off as it continues to develop into a so well together. She admitted that being in business with thriving community shopping area. your spouse is never easy, especially as the roles of husband Kerry said: “We have an easy to use free car park just or wife, employer and employee often blur, and it’s impossible behind us which is great, and are looking forward to the to always switch off from the stresses of business at home. new housing developments in the Charlton Road area and However, The Village Cafe is a credit to their determination the old park and ride car park on Brest Road. We’re looking and commitment. forward to years of feeding, not just the new homeowners, Kerry has learnt so much over this time, and as she says, is but also the teams of builders these developments will bring continually learning with her hands on approach to running into the area, as well as our existing customers from our the business. She is such a good source of wisdom and neighbourhood, the local office staff and students.” Kerry Pascoe is no newcomer to business or Plymouth. Marrying local man, Guy, meant that she was launched straight into a strong Plymothian working family.

Crownhill’s Kerry Pascoe is keeping it in the family

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

FAMILY MATTERS

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This month in nursery we’ve been looking at stories about cooking and we’ve made some chocolate crispy cakes. These are very quick and easy to make and the children can get quite ‘hands-on’ with this. All children seem to love these and you can adapt them to whatever you fancy. We included popping candy but you By Liz could easily put in raisins, chocolate chips, Crudgington mini-smarties etc. Or we’ve seen them of the with Lucky Charms in place of the corn Roundabout flakes. One of the mums brought them into Day Nursery the nursery and they were delicious! So this is what you’re going to need; √√ 200 grams of chocolate √√ 2 cereal bowls of cornflakes (or other cereal – Rice Crispies, Lucky Charms or Shredded Wheat all work well) √√ Small bowl of whatever you may want to add (popping candy, chocolate chips, smarties etc.) This is what you need to do: • Melt the chocolate using a microwave or a glass bowl over a pan of boiling water. • Decant the chocolate into a new bowl so that it’s not too hot for the children to handle. • Using a wooden spoon mix in the cereal and extras. • Put the mixture into cake cases. • Leave to cool so that they set. What can the children do? • Go shopping with you to buy the bits you need. They will particularly enjoy picking the sweets if you’re going to add any! • Measure out what you need. • Count the cubes of chocolate as you break them into the bowl to melt them. • Count out the cake cases. • Mix the ingredients. • Use spoons to put the mixture into the cases. • Help clean up! • Have a tea party. Set the table with a table cloth and nice crockery. Get them to draw out a menu so that their guests can choose what they would like. Perhaps they could make different kinds of crispy cakes for a bit of variety! Use toy tea-pots and milk jugs and fill them with drinks for their party. Let them pour it themselves and then enjoy!

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T. 01752 840963 E. sales@jigsawinteriorsolutions.co.uk The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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HEALTH MATTERS

Back pain: A common cause of suffering and missed work Back pain is very common and affects a large amount of the population at some point in their lifetime. It can be a frequent cause of missed work and also affect people in day-to-day activity such as housework, gardening and other activity. It is worth considering the different types By of back pain to Dr Mike Burdon understand how the Consultant in condition may Sports and be treated. Mechanical Exercise back pain is the most Medicine common and refers to localised back pain which generally does not spread to the legs or other parts of the body. It is not normally associated with pins and needles or numbness in the legs. This type of pain is usually worse when sitting or standing for long periods of time and can be related to posture and bending/lifting movements. It has often been there for a long period and can come and go at various times. Usually the patient is otherwise well with no new medical symptoms of concern. Treatment can include physiotherapy and sports therapy to help address some posture issues and also to control the pain.. Chiropractic and osteopathic management can also help in some cases. Radicular back pain is often also called ‘sciatica’. This refers to the pain at times being in the low back but also being felt into the leg – often down the back, but it can be felt in the front and side

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

of the leg too. It can be associated with numbness and tingling and often the leg pain is felt to be worse than the back pain. This type of problem can be caused by disc problems in the lower back that may press on nerves causing the pain to be felt into the leg. Pain may be worse on movement, coughing and sneezing. It is important to look for red flags or more serious symptoms such as numbness in the genital area, bowel or bladder problems. These are rare but if present should lead to an urgent medical assessment on that day. Management may include rehabilitation such as described above, but sometimes surgery may be needed. This should be done by a specialist surgeon and only after careful consideration. Sometimes an injection before surgery such as an epidural or nerve root block can be tried to see if this would help before deciding to move on with surgery. There are various other conditions that may cause back pain and reaching a diagnosis is an important step so that we are aware what options may exist in treating the condition. At Peninsula Sports Medicine a careful history will be taken to help identify what type of back pain you may have. Examination of the back and other joints will be done as needed to help reach a diagnosis. Sometimes scans such as X-rays and MRI may be needed in order to fully diagnose the problem. Please email the clinic at info@peninsulasportsmedicine.co.uk for further information or visit www.peninsulasportsmedicine.co.uk

••

Peninsula Sports Medicine is a private clinic and patients who wish to self-pay or who have private insurance can be seen. For bookings please ring 01752 720799.

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The Plymouth Magazine January08/12/2014 2015

09:07

TRAVEL MATTERS January is always one of our busiest months of the year. With the excitement of the Christmas festivities behind us booking a holiday seems the perfect tonic to shake away those blues and give you something to look forward to.

Kick start your or adventure

Many people will be joining the gym or watching their weight at this time so I thought I would start the year talking about adventure and activity holidays that are a little different to By Travel the norm. I recently had a meeting with the Expert sales manager of Explore Holiday who Anthony Goord very enthusiastically ran through the vast array of holidays they have to offer, one even including visits to the site where the Star Wars movies are filmed or another where you visit the film set of Lawrence of Arabia. With experiential travel on the rise adventure travel specialists Explore offer an inspiring collection of more than 550 pioneering small group tours to over 120 of the most fascinating countries in the world. They provide a vast range of tours from cultural discovery, wildlife, cycling, walking and trekking to family holidays. There’s a tour to suit everyone’s needs. This combined with their award-winning tour leaders and commitment to responsible travel helps meet the ever-increasing demand for a unique travel experience. Those interested in activity holidays such as walking, trekking or cycling can choose a suitable tour based on their ability. You are offered easy, moderate and challenging graded tours and all of the trip notes provides details on the distance, gradient and altitude to assist customers in ensuring they pick a holiday that is right for them. What’s more, the hire of a good quality bike is included in all of Explore’s cycling tours, which helps eliminate the costs and hassle associated with taking a bike on holiday. As a new cycling destination for 2015/16, a nine day Israel by Bike offers a moderate graded cycling tour which encapsulates the culture, history and landscapes of Israel. Travellers will discover the ancient city of Jerusalem, pedal along the Sea of Galilee and its Christian Holy Sites as well as visit the biblical town Prices start from £2,145 per person of Nazareth. Explore are always in search of innovative new destinations and Customers will have the opportunity to ride through the this year is no exception. Having added a range of new tours to breathtaking forests of Gan HaShlosha National Park and take a their portfolio for 2015/16, travellers are now able to venture to the dip in the glorious natural water pools. Prices start from £1,990 per East African nation of Djibouti on an Addis to Djibouti Adventure; person. take a short break to the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad or trek Alternatively, the easy-to-moderate graded Costa Rica on Two through the rainforest in Guatemala to reach the Mayan temple Wheels package provides customer with a 14 day cycling tour in complex of Tikal on the Maya Trek to Tikal tour. the Central American country. Travellers will have the opportunity If it’s an off the beaten track experience that is required, the new to discover the diversity of the country by bike, admire the Arenal 11 day Discover Papua New Guinea deal offers travellers a chance volcano and observe wildlife such as monkeys and sloths in their to learn about Papua New Guinea’s unique heritage. Situated natural environment. more than 8,500 miles from London, Travellers will journey through Manual Antonio National Park and rest the bikes to relax on the beaches on the Pacific Coast. Prices start from £2,456 per person. For those in search of more of a challenge, Cycling Tropical South India offers a 15 day moderate-to-challenging graded cycling tour in the Kerala region of India. Travellers will explore the Maharaja’s Palace in Mysore; experience the verdant landscapes of the Western Ghats by bike and soak up the beautiful backwaters of Kerala on board a traditional house boat. Journeying along the Malabar Coat, travellers can mingle with the locals as they pass through traditional fishing villages and learn about the rich heritage of Fort Kochi. Maharaja’s Palace in Mysore Ait Ben Hadou

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

New Year with an activity holiday

customers will immerse themselves in local culture as they meet local tribespeople, spend a night in a homestay and enjoy the pristine waters of the Blue Lagoon in Rabaul. Travellers can also search for native wildlife and pay a visit to a traditional witch-doctor in Karawari. Prices start from £6,729 per person Explore’s best-selling family holiday is the eight day Rock the Kasbah tour which provides families with an active adventure through Morocco. Families will explore the Atlas Mountains by a mule ride to remote Berber villages, spend a night sleeping under the stars camping in the Sahara Desert and take to the saddle to

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cycle from Ait Ben Haddou towards the beautiful landscapes of the Draa Valley. There will also be time for families to visit the film set of Lawrence of Arabia as well as explore the vibrant city of Marrakech with its musicians, acrobats and snake charmers whilst discovering the maze of souks and streets of this colourful city. Prices start from £872 per adult and £816 per child Explore’s new Intergalactic Tunisian Family Adventure is the ideal option for families looking for a unique travel experience. The nine day tour combines authentic activities such as glass blowing, learning how to cook a traditional Bedouin meal and spending the night in a converted troglodyte cave dwelling, with the main highlights of Tunis, Port El Kantaoui and Djerba. Families will also visit some of the famous Star Wars locations, challenge themselves with an aerial adventure rope course and enjoy the thrills of Tunisia’s largest water park. Prices start from £1,095 per adult and £1,019 per child. These tours are just a taster of those offered by Explore. Please feel free to call into Peter Goord Travel to collect one of their 2015/16 brochures plus for Plymouth Magazine Readers we will give you a free ‘Footprints Travel Guide’ worth £15.99 subject to availability. Happy Holidays for 2015 and a Happy New Year to you all! The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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Can a will be changed after death? By Simon Stevenson of Thompson and Jackson solicitors Simon Stevenson is an assistant solicitor in the private client department of Thompson & Jackson Solicitors. He is experienced in dealing with Wills, Probate, Court of Protection and elderly client issues. He is also a very experienced residential property lawyer. Educated at Gowerton School, Swansea followed by Nottingham Trent University and University of Wales, Cardiff, Simon qualified as a Solicitor in 1996 and has lived and worked in Plymouth ever since, enabling him to establish a loyal client following.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

LEGAL MATTERS

It can be hard enough when someone close to you dies, but even worse if they have not made a will, or the will they have made causes upset to your family, or unnecessary inheritance tax. In that situation, people can be surprised to find out that it is possible to alter a will after the person who has made it has died. This is done by using a Deed of Variation (DoV), though only within two years of the death. The only ones who can do this are the people who benefit from the will, or from the legal rules sharing out the estate if there is no will. The most usual reasons why people want to vary a will are: If someone has been left out For example, a parent may leave all their assets to two out the four children, or to all four, but unequally. If the ones who get most or all of the estate think that is unfair and want to put it right they can ‘rewrite’ their parent’s will as if it had left the estate to all four equally. If someone has not been properly provided for Perhaps a couple have been living together unmarried in a house belonging to one of them and they leave it to their children, leaving the surviving partner homeless. That person might be entitled to bring court proceedings to have fair provision made for them. But if the children agree that the partner can go on living in the house for a specified period but paying all the bills, then they can make a DoV providing for this and making sure they get the house eventually. It also means they will avoid a legal claim as well as providing a home for their parent’s cohabitee. To save inheritance tax (IHT) or capital gains tax (CGT) If you inherit something from your parents, but you do not really need the money and your children do, you could make a DoV redirecting your inheritance to your children. It will not then be added to your assets on your death and will not be subject to IHT. If your inheritance is a house and if house prices are going up fast, the Deed will avoid you having to pay capital gains tax when you give the house to your children. And if the estate is tax paying, a gift to charity by DoV will reduce the tax paid and result in a refund. So why can’t I just make a simple gift then? Because a gift might cause you to pay CGT, and would be part of your taxable estate for inheritance tax purposes for seven years. The DoV has the effect for both IHT and CGT of being treated as if it had been made by the person who has died in their will.

••

For more information contact Thompson & Jackson on 01752 665037 or e-mail enquiries@ thompsonandjackson.co.uk leaving your telephone number for a free initial discussion with one of their expert lawyers.

About Thompson & Jackson Established more than 130 years ago, Thompson and Jackson provides a wide range of legal services to clients throughout Devon and Cornwall, including residential and commercial conveyancing, wills and probate, inheritance disputes, business matters, landlord and tenant issues, accident compensation claims, divorce and separation, injunctions and litigation.

PLYMOUTH MATTERS

New use for former look-out tower A watch tower overlooking Plymouth Sound is getting a new lease of life, thanks to an exciting, award-winning scheme to entice entrepreneurs with cracking ideas.

recognised as a national exemplar earlier this year when it won the Association of Town & Centre Management’s Diversifying the Business Mix award. The council worked with partners to focus in the Business The ‘Liner Lookout’ stands on Plymouth’s world-famous Improvement District areas, working with Plymouth Waterfront Hoe and is one of a number of sites in the city centre and on Partnership, Plymouth City Centre Company, Plymouth Plymouth’s stunning waterfront being marketed for use under University and City College Plymouth to identify 20 sites the Plymouth Your Space project. including: Plymouth businessman Dave Morrish has worked with the • the hard-standing terrace on the water’s edge at Pebblestone Plymouth Your Space team to agree a short-term lease on the Beach lookout for the next five years for deck chair hire, free games • space beneath El Café on the water’s edge beneath Hoe Road as well as refreshments. • the Lion’s Den – a former ‘gentlemen’s bathing area’ on the He said: “We wanted to turn this quirky building into waterfront somewhere for local people, dog walkers and tourists to get • the roof and sun terrace of Tinside Lido something to eat and enjoy the amazing views. • empty city centre units, including along Cornwall Street “There’s nothing better than sitting on the world famous Hoe Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “I’m chuffed to bits to see in a deck chair and looking out to sea. this building come back to life. It’s a We want to hire out deck chairs as well lovely building and its new use will help as giant grass games for children. bring people up onto the Hoe.”’ “Every step of the way has been met A number of sites have successfully with enthusiasm and support from the been brought back to life such as council.” Rumpus Cosy in an empty city centre Plymouth Your Space opens up shop on Derry’s Cross, and Flameworks opportunities for people to use space which ran a retail operation in a city in the city in different ways, while not centre shop for the past two Christmas having to commit to long term lease periods. arrangements. Ideas could include popThe Liner Lookout is a small stone up shops, art exhibitions, temporary building which looks like a miniature cinemas, outside dance events, floating castle turret and was built in the 1870s restaurants and cafes. It could also as a lookout for the big ships that include temporary salons or bike repairs called into the busy port of Plymouth. – there are no limits to the ideas. Council leader Tudor Eveans (centre) pictured with It has been boarded up for at least 20 The Plymouth Your Space project was some of the individuals behind the scheme years.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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BUSINESS MATTERS

Heather’s passion for paint breathes new life into Plymouth homes Imagine your home as a blank canvas where each and every room is waiting to be transformed. Only with this transformation you don’t need to move furniture around or throw any of it out. You just need a little vision to work with what you’ve got. Heather Porter of Tilly’s in Molesworth Road, Millbridge, says that for many people, reviving old and unloved pieces so that they’re made to feel well, like part of the furniture again, doesn’t only make financial sense – it’s also a great excuse to learn something new. Heather opened Tilly’s four years ago, using Chalk Paint™, a decorative paint by Annie Sloan. And although opening Tilly’s was a completely new venture for Heather, her background as an estate agent in the city meant she had a pretty good idea about homes and interior design: “I used to say to people viewing properties ‘this is bricks and mortar – it’s what you do with it that makes it home’.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

“It’s about sowing the seeds of that vision into people’s minds. And what’s in vogue doesn’t matter; it’s what YOU want that matters.” Young couples, first time buyers and people who’ve not moved for several years but are now looking to freshen things up a bit, have all been keeping Heather and her team busy. As well as selling painted pieces at Tilly’s they also offer a commission service where your furniture can be transformed – for many people, a far better option than buying new. “I recently spent a couple of days at a house in Peverell, transforming an entire bedroom suite,” said Heather. “It was good solid furniture but so dark and dated – Chalk Paint™ just lifted the whole room. “But in a lot of cases, people are simply looking for that statement piece, a one-off item that stands out in a room and makes you go ‘wow’.” So what’s so special about Annie Sloan and her Chalk Paint™? “She is a hard-working, down to earth wife and mother who since setting up her business almost 25 years ago has become a hit world-wide,” explained Heather. “She is a great supporter of small, independent shops and you won’t find Chalk Paint™ in any of the big DIY superstores. Stockists are personally trained by Annie, who looks for stockists who share her passion for the paint.” It is called Chalk Paint™ because of the finish. It’s quick drying and there’s no need for sanding, priming, under-coating or any prep. As long as the item is clean and dry, you can paint wood, metal, glass, plastic, fabric or ceramic. “I’ve known people paint their fridges and even their boots!” revealed Heather. “We get many people in the shop with a swatch of fabric. We have a colour wheel of paint with 33 colours in the range so you can mix colours to achieve pretty much any shade you wish. There’s no need for hundreds of different shades of the

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same colour when you can achieve just that with this amazing, versatile paint. “I just want our customers to go away happy – and they do,” added Heather. “That’s what we are about. We never let anyone wander off with their first tin of Chalk Paint™ without a quick lesson, and a demo if required.” Heather’s tip for those considering a fresh look at home is to be bold: “Colour is so important. Maybe just step outside the box a little bit. What’s the worst that can happen? If you don’t like it, do it again. Experiment a bit. A lot of people have said it’s therapeutic because it’s not like painting walls and ceilings, so as well as bringing your furniture back to life, it’s really quite relaxing at the same time.” Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan is available at Tilly’s at £18.95 a litre and the protective wax paint is £8.50 a pot. A range of brushes is also available, as well as items of furniture that Tilly’s have revived and refreshed. Tilly’s run regular workshops on paint techniques and upholstery – and have their own in-house upholsterer to continue that furniture transformation.

••

For more information on Chalk Paint™, workshops and upholstery contact Tilly’s on 01752 559522 or visit www.facebook.com/TillyMooMilly

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BUSINESS MATTERS

Keep warm AND save money with Plymstock Plumbing and Heating Renewing your gas boiler could save you hundreds of pounds each year – that’s the message from the owner of established family company , Plymstock Plumbing and Heating. Plymstock-born Darren Parker, who set up the business in 2001, has issued advice to homeowners to get their boilers serviced and checked for safety and efficiency. Advances in efficiency technology in recent years means that a new Worcester boiler such as those fitted by Plymstock Plumbing and Heating could save homeowners at least £300 a year compared to some older boilers. Even a boiler that is only eight to ten years old might now be inefficient compared to a new Worcester A-rated condensing boiler. Darren says that judging by the growth of his business, a lot people are getting the message. And there’s no doubt that the rocketing price of heating a home in recent years has also encouraged homeowners to upgrade. Darren, whose wife Anna manages the office and brother Steven also works with the firm as a qualified engineer, now employs other qualified engineer as well: “We’ve been really busy this winter,” said Darren. “I think a lot of people who realised they needed to get their boiler checked or replaced have waited as long as they could but with winter arriving, they’ve decided they can’t wait any longer. “Our advice is that homeowners should have their boilers serviced and checked for efficiency and safety on an annual basis. We do that for £45 plus VAT; peace of mind for £45 is a good investment.” The installation of an A-rated Worcester gasfired condensing boiler costs £1,500 to £2,000 – and customers can get a 10-year warranty. “The investment starts to be repaid straight away,”

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

said Darren. “With a small house, the Energy Saving Trust estimates you can save at least £300 a year if you replace a G-rated boiler – so you effectively get your money back within about five years. And the bigger the house, the bigger the savings. “I think it comes as a shock to a lot of people that even some boilers under ten years old are now inefficient.” Plymstock Plumbing and Heating is an accredited Worcester installer and Darren says the reason they use the brand is simple: “In our opinion, it’s the best. Worcester Bosch is renowned for the quality and reliability of their boilers.” Don’t just take Darren’s word for it: every one of the Worcester Greenstar gas-fired condensing boilers has received a Which? Best Buy Award. As well as having to employ more staff, Darren has also moved the business to a new premises with office space and storage to enable the business to grow further: “We’re looking to expand and moving here has given us the space we need to move forward,” said Darren. Plymstock Plumbing and Heating has all the trade accreditations and is registered with Gas Safe. The company is also listed as trusted tradesmen on the consumer website, Checkatrade. Domestic customers are guaranteed a fixed price and the company offers a 24-hour emergency call out service. Free quotations are available for people living in Devon and Cornwall. Darren says the company is benefitting from its reputation: “People like the fact that we’re a local, trusted, established and family firm and that we’ve got a name for quality and reliability.”

••

For the full range of services offered by Plymstock Plumbing and Heating and to book a service for your boiler, visit the company’s website www. plymstockplumbingandheating.co.uk Telephone: 01752 876282 or 07974 893 383

BUSINESS MATTERS

Darren Parker of Plymstock Plumbing and Heating

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

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PROPERTY MATTERS

Praise for Plymouth’s efforts to convert empty commercial properties into homes Plymouth’s efforts to use empty properties to address housing needs have received national recognition. In December, the chief executive of the Empty Homes Agency, Helen Williams, visited Plymouth, as part of National Empty Homes Week. The Empty Homes Agency is currently carrying out research into how more empty commercial properties could be brought back into use for people in housing need. In recognition of its track record in the delivery of this type of conversion the Agency approached Plymouth to assist it with this research. The City Council is currently working in partnership with national housing charity Chapter 1, to convert a commercial property in Hoegate Street, which has remained empty since it was used as a Job Centre. When completed this spring, the conversion will provide the city with 30 one and two bedroomed affordable rental flats. Ms Williams met with Cllr Penberthy, Cabinet Member for

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

Cooperatives, Housing and Community Safety, to gain an insight into Plymouth’s wider empty homes activity. She then accompanied him on a site visit to Hoegate Street to view the progress and gain information for the Agency in order to showcase this project as a good practice example for other authorities. Councillor Penberthy said “This is an excellent example of partnership working. The conversion has been financed by Chapter 1’s successful bid to the Homes and Communities Agency, and its own funds with a contribution from Plymouth City Council and will deliver much needed affordable housing from previously wasted space. “The council recognises that its empty homes activity has an important role to play in the delivery of housing and I am delighted that this project has been identified by the Empty Homes Agency to showcase during National Empty Homes Week.” Empty homes were highlighted as an issue in the Plymouth Fairness Commission report and Plymouth City Council is committed to addressing the issue, with an aim to bring 150 empty homes in the city back into use over the next three years. Rachel Sanders, Chapter 1’s director of business development, said: “At Chapter 1 we believe in changing lives one by one. For many people that journey begins when they have a suitable place to call home. “The building in Hoegate Street is our first major development in Plymouth, but is a significant part of Chapter 1’s Empty Homes programme which is supported by funds from the Homes & Communities Agency. Over the next two years we plan to invest £6 million in the south and south west of England.” Helen Williams, chief executive of the Empty Homes Agency, said: “It is good to see the way in which Plymouth City Council is working to bring empty properties back into use. With so many people across England looking for an affordable home it makes sense to make the most of the buildings we have and we hope to inspire other areas by spreading knowhow from successful examples such as Hoegate Street.” Chapter 1 provides support and accommodation services to help vulnerable people enjoy a more fulfilled life. It is a charity, based on Christian principles, which offers human compassion and practical support to meet people’s needs respecting their faith, culture and social background. Currently Chapter 1 works in partnership with over 40 local and administrative authorities and has a growing network of some 50 services across England. Chapter 1 Empty Homes scheme is part of a national programme supported by grants from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) to renovate properties which have been standing empty for a minimum of six months, or to convert commercial properties into homes.

PROPERTY MATTERS

Cllr Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Co-operatives, Housing and Community Safety, Thelma Cunningham, Plymouth City Council Housing Delivery Officer Helen Williams, chief executive of the Empty Homes Agency and Geoff Hawkins chief executive of Chapter 1

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GARDENING MATTERS Hope you had a good Christmas and are ready for another season in the garden! Christmas Trees went well, we sold some whoppers and beauties, writes Fiona Newton. Interesting times at the netting machine again, but all good fun! Happily we started putting the trees out wearing T Shirts with warm sunny days , although that didn’t help with the needle rash – I forgot to cover my arms and then it was too late. Then true to form came the cold and wet weather! But the trees liked it so that’s what matters. So all done for another year, it seems to go so quickly but it will take 6 months to get all the pine needles up! So over to Derek for what’s next!

In praise of

Derek Anderson looks at the many varieties of primrose, which can bring a spectacular splash of colour in the garden in January. January is the month where the Primrose starts to flower and becomes the star of our gardens, pots, baskets and patios for the next few months. They are tough little plants that can cope with the worst of the British weather with ease. They are extremely easy to grow and exceedingly hardy. Primroses prefer to grow in dappled shade, but will handle full sun if watered well and will also grow surprisingly well in deep shade, providing they some light. They like to grow in a loamy, humus rich soil, so John Innes No.3 with plenty of multipurpose or leaf mould mixed in is perfect for them. Primula Vulgaris is our native Primrose that we find naturally occurring in our hedgerows and woodlands. It is the original parent plant from which all garden hybrids have been bred. It is a tough and resilient plant that can last for years in a garden and flower reliably. The flowers tend to be smaller than the garden hybrids, giving it a dainty appearance. Its flowers range from white to butter yellow, but all have the same distinctive gold eye at the centre of the flower. Primula vulgaris tends to flower from February until May, but can be a little earlier or later depending on the weather. They are excellent at naturalising themselves, by spreading seeds and will quickly form a little colony, without being invasive or intrusive. Primula ‘Cottage Cream’ is a more compact and robust plant than Primula Vulgaris. It is one of the first cultivars to be bred from Primula vulgaris, making it extremely hardy, possibly even hardier than Primula vulgaris. The flowers are also more of a creamier colour and more consistently even and this puts more emphasis on the gold eye, making it stand out more. The flowers are slightly smaller than Primula Vulgaris, but altogether much tougher, often surviving frosts and snow with no problems. ‘Cottage Cream’ flowers much longer as well, starting in January and extending into late May. Primula ‘Woodland Walk’ is another old cultivar bred from Primula Vulgaris. It is extremely robust and has a compact habit. The flowers range from white with a pink tinge, through to pink and mauve. The flowers still have a gold eye, but it is less pronounced on ‘Woodland Walk’. The foliage emerges dark bronze in colour and fades to bronze green as the leaf matures. There is a naturally occurring variety of Primula Vulgaris that is very similar to ‘Woodland Walk’ that has pale mauve flowers, and many believe ‘Woodland Walk’ is derived from that variety. This a delicate looking plant that will look great amongst white and pink hellebores, and planted beneath plants with red or purple foliage. Primula ‘Zebra’ is a relatively new variety of Primrose, but has a look about it that seems like it’s been around for years. It could almost pass as a great heritage variety. The flowers are fairly compact and dainty. They range from having dark blue through to sky blue veins, against a white, giving it the appearance of stripes. All the flowers have the trademark gold eye of Primula Vulgaris. They are very striking and interesting, making them incredibly beautiful. Again these are an extremely tough variety and will flower profusely from January until April.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2015

Primula ‘Wanda’ is an extremely old, heirloom variety that has been bred for years and is one of the earliest cultivars to be bred. It is considered to be the hardiest and toughest of all the primroses. They come in a range of colours from blue, red, pink, purple, yellow, orange and white. The colours tend to have a rich, velvety appearance making them look elegant and exquisite. Each has the gold eye, but in the ‘Wanda’ range, the eye is also ringed a red ring. The flowers sit atop bronze green foliage and form neat, compact plants. ‘Wanda’ flowers for an exceptionally long time and can be in flower as early has Christmas, extending through until May. These are excellent performers, which is why they still deserve a spot in the garden after all these years. Primula ‘Apple Primula Apple Blossom blossom’ is a recent introduction that has become very popular, very quickly. It is easy to see why, as the flowers are extremely large and robust, whilst having a frail, delicate appearance. The flowers are sugar pink in colour with a gold eye and a white ring around the eye. As the flowers age, the pink fades to almost white, giving the plant a multi-tonal appearance and a resemblance to Apple Blossom, hence the namesake. It flowers from February until May. Primula ‘Ember Glow’ is a new variety of primrose that has wonderfully bright flowers that will brighten up the garden in those dreary winter days. The flowers are small, but very brightly coloured in shades of red, orange and yellow. The edges of the petals are slightly ruffled and edged with red, which give the plant a delightful, uplifting quality. The flowers have the traditional gold eye, some only just showing it, on others the eye can blend into the rest of the petal. These will flower as early as January and will continue into May. Primula ‘Belarina’ is a beautiful double flowering primrose. The flowers look like miniature roses and come in blue, red, yellow, white and pink. Double flowering primroses were a

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great favourite in English gardens before the Second World War, but almost became extinct, due to gardens being used to grow food crops. Thanks to modern propagation and breeding techniques, they have been saved and are enjoying a revival. They flower profusely from February and can continue flowering quite late, quite often into June. The flowers have such a dense amount of petals that it is not possible to see the gold eye in the centre of the plant, and uniquely to this variety, the flowers often have a small rosette of leaves right behind the petals. Primula ‘Gold Lace’ is a very old variety dating back to Victorian times. It is still a good reliable plant that people still love. It is one of my favourites. Like Primula ‘Castillian’, it is a Primula Elatior hybrid. The flowers are borne on top of a Primula Gold Lace long stem in clusters. The flowers are a bright gold colour with a ring of black spots at the tip of the petals, surrounded by a gold ring. These plants have stood the test of time and still continue to be very popular. They look elegant, classic and modern at the same time. Recent breeding of them has produced offspring with pink, red or cream spots instead of black, which are equally attractive, but slightly shorter more compact plants. I am sure that these will also stand the test of time. There are many plants that grow well and highlight primroses throughout the winter and spring, these include Snowdrops (Galanthus Nivalus), Hellebores, Daffodils, Tulips, Ferns, Witch Hazel (Hamemelis), Fatsia, Skimmia, Euphorbias, Heucheras, Cyclamen, Violas and Pansies, so there is plenty to pair them with and experiment in plant combinations. So get out in the garden and create a pot or a little patch of cheerfulness in the garden to remind yourself that spring will soon be here. Happy gardening and a Happy New Year, Fiona & Derek www.cornerstonevision.com

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