The Plymouth Magazine issue 104

plymouth magazine the

Issue 104 February 2013

WIN! a charity cruise with britanny ferries WIN! family tickets to the eden project

plymouth to host diving champs property advice for homeowners raiders in fund-raiser what’s on in plymouth

Published since May 2004 and now DELIVERED FREE

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

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plymouth is a great place to live – and dive – and that’s official!

A recent article in the Guardian highlighted Plymouth – and Stoke in particular – as the ‘optimum place to buy a property in Britain.’

Researchers had worked out that Plymouth has the best balance of bargains and pleasantness, and have drawn diagrams of good schools, affordability, splendidness of property, proximity to the sea, beautiful countryside and other factors such as the local amenities to come up with their findings.

Ne w lot s o galle jewe f H ry ller ear NO y in ts f W or V plu the ale s nti ne s

The Barbican, Royal William Yard and Plymouth Life Centre are all seen as outstanding amenities which make the city an attractive proposition for property investors.

The report comes at a time when the Plymouth Life Centre is celebrating its millionth visitor since it first opened little more than nine months ago. Not only that, it has recently hosted celebrities who have been training for ITV’s Splash! Saturday night series. It has all led to a huge increase in the number of people who want to try diving at the Life Centre.

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

And now it has been announced that the British Gas Diving Championships will be taking place at the Life Centre in February. Ten of the GB Diving team who took part in the 2012 Olympics – including local stars Tom Daley, Sarah Barrow and Tonia Couch – will be competing for top honours.

Regular exhibitions showcasing new jewellers - visit Nicola's shop today!

Tickets have been selling like hot cakes and it promises to be a fantastic showcase for the Life Centre. You can find out more on page 8 of this issue.

Nicola makes jewellery on the premises.

Commissions and repairs undertaken.

01752 228000 l www.nicolahurst.co.uk 65 Hyde Park Rd l Plymouth l PL3 4JN

Scan here for more info

Tom Daley in action

We also put the spotlight on the Meze Grill, a family-run restaurant in Sutton Harbour which is proving to be hugely popular with diners in Plymouth. You can read about the Meze Grill on pages 16 and 17.

Hope you enjoy the latest issue...

Publishers: Chris Girdler and Ian Pilkington Editor: Debbie Girdler Designers: Lawrence Bird and Sven Lauch Photography: Roy Perring Contributors: Anthony Goord; Kerry Cole; Fiona Newton and Derek Anderson Advertising sales: Naomi Shearer, Sarah Simpson, Lisette Hicklin, Stefanie Clifton-Sprigg and Shakira Floyd Distribution: John Kowalski Finance: Kim Craig Front cover: Southside Street in the Barbican last summer. Picture by Plymouth Magazine photographer Roy Perring Contacts: Editorial Tel: 01752 268635 e-mail: chris@cornerstonevision.com Advertising Tel: 01752 225623 e-mail: ian@cornerstonevision.com The views expressed in the plymouth magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of all information contained in this magazine. However, the publishers do not accept any liability for any advice or information included in the magazine. the plymouth magazine is distributed free to 40,000 homes across Plymouth each month, with a further 5,000 copies strategically placed in leisure and retail outlets in Plymouth, Saltash and Tavistock.

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

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february 2013 edition

meze grill sizzling

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raiders in fund raiser

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14

art matters

19

what’s on in plymouth

Property valuation advice

46

millbay site for new school

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Plymouth Raiders basketball stars will be in action at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel in March, supporting the hotel’s fund-raising activities as part of its 150th anniversary

Kerry Cole visits 45 Southside Gallery in the Barbican where she meets a local up-and-coming artist and finds out about an upcoming exhibition by potter Tim Andrews

Gareth Forrest and Richard Rabin of Town & Country Estate Agents have some advice on property price comparison websites for buyers and sellers alike

A family-run restaurant in a centuries-old converted chandlery overlooking Sutton Harbour is proving popular with diners in Plymouth

Our comprehensive What’s On section has details of all the shows and events coming up at the Theatre Royal, Pavilions and other venues in the coming weeks

The ground-breaking Plymouth School of Creative Arts will be built on land opposite the Cargo building in Millbay if planning permission is granted

the plymouth magazine

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plymouth matters

raiders stars will boost hotel’s charity quiz night Celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of Plymouth’s Duke of Cornwall Hotel are set to provide much-needed funds for three local charities.

each period. Other themes include The Explorers (Sir Ernest Shackleton stayed at the hotel), Between the Wars and Art Deco, World War 2, The Sixties to Nineties and the Present Day and Future.

A series of special events will be taking place during 2013, with a proportion of the proceeds being donated to Plymouth-based Friends & Families of Special Children, Jeremiah’s Journey and St Luke’s Hospice.

As part of the 150th anniversary celebrations the tower is being refurbished and opened to the public as an exclusive venue for afternoon tea and champagne.

With its views across the city and the Plymouth Sound it is likely to be a popular attraction.

The first fund-raiser will be on Friday March 1 when Plymouth Raiders basketball stars will be rubbing shoulders with locals at a quiz night at the hotel.

The Duke of Cornwall are one of the main sponsors of Plymouth Raiders and five of their players live at the hotel during the basketball season.

Hotel director Jon Morcom said: “We want to get our fund-raising campaign off to a flying start and are delighted that the Raiders stars will be there to join in the fun.”

The event will involve teams of four with a £20 entry fee per team (including free pasties) with all proceeds to charity. There will be a mix of music, sports and general knowledge questions on the night.

“We will be offering some great prizes including a meal for four in our AA Rosette restaurant, cream tea in the hotel’s tower, tickets for Raiders games and others as well,” added Jon. To book a team for the quiz night call Melanie Williams on 01752 275862 or e-mail her at m.williams@thedukeofcornwall.co.uk Fund-raising for charity will be a key part of a series of themed events at the hotel during the year. The first of the themes is ‘Victoriana’ with memorabilia and images from the 19th century featured in the restaurant, along with a signature dish from

The hotel is also teaming up with Plymouth Museum for a special event as part of the recently-announced Plymouth History Month in May. Local people will be invited to join a guided historical tour of the hotel, including behind-the-scenes areas not normally open to the public.

“There will be a charge for the event, again including a donation to charity, and we hope that many people will take advantage of this special occasion to visit the hotel and find out more about its fascinating history,” added Jon. “We have not set a specific target for our fund-raising activities, but we hope that our efforts will really benefit these really worthwhile local causes.”

Kay O’Shaughnessy, chair of the trustees of Friends & Families of Special Children said: “We are delighted that the directors and staff at the Duke of Cornwall have chosen us as one of the local charities to support this year.

“We already enjoy a long-standing working relationship with the hotel and look forward to working even more closely together this year.”

Friends & Families of Special Children helps hundreds of local families and young people each year, providing support and services to families with disabled children.

New Dementia Care Home with Nursing St.Budeaux, Ernesettle Lane, Plymouth Waypoints Care Group is dedicated to creating residential care homes that are reassuring and familiar, supporting residents with dementia through individual, person-centred care. Our pioneering approach to caring for people who have dementia ensures that those in our care continue to lead, rich and fulfilling lives.

Our new home in St.Budeaux, Plymouth has been designed to the very highest standards. Set over two floors, each of the 64 bedrooms has its own wet-room ensuite facilities. The home is divided into four separate units, each containing 16 bedrooms.

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Duke of Cornwall directors Walter Combstock and Jon Morcom pictured with the five Plymouth Raiders stars who will be joining in the fund-raising quiz night at the hotel on March 1

Kay said: “Friends & Families of Special Children was started in 2003 by a parent of a disabled child as a result of there being no social and leisure opportunities for children with profound disabilities. Information for families was totally disjointed and getting any kind of support and information was a post code lottery.

the city are very limited. As well as campaigning locally we have been part of both regional and national campaigns which have included talking at the House of Commons, contributing to local and national magazines and newspapers, and take part in radio interviews.”

“Accessing respite is extremely difficult and most families get little help if any at all.

The group was managed and driven by parents as we felt that this was the only way that we would ensure that all of our services were needs led and tailored to meet the differing disabilities of the children.”

The charity organises a range of special activities, trips and events for children, carers and families – but it all depends on the finances and grants they can secure.

It became a registered charity in 2006 and aims to support all family members, set up much needed services, empower carers, influence policy makers and fund holders to ensure that services are needs led and improved. It also aims to alleviate some of the isolation and anxieties felt by carers, many of whom care for their children with little, if any, help.

Kay added: “Our support also extends to the young carers within the family. These are a particularly disadvantaged group of young people for whom services within

“Most of our team are volunteers assisted by a very small part-time team of staff,” said Kay. “Like many other charities it is getting tougher and tougher to sustain the services we offer and we hope that the higher profile given to the charity through the Duke of Cornwall Hotel’s fund-raising will lead to more support from other businesses and individuals.”

For more information on Friends & Families of Special Children visit www.friendsandfamilies.org.uk, e-mail info@friendsandfamilies.org.uk or call 01752 204369 Tuesdays to Thursdays between 10am and 2pm.

the plymouth magazine

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plymouth matters

plymouth’s life centre to host british diving championships Britain’s top divers will be gathering in Plymouth in February for the first national competition of the new season.

Ten of the 12 divers who represented Team GB at London 2012 will be competing in the British Gas Diving Championships, taking place at the Plymouth Life Centre from Friday February 8 to Sunday February 10.

They include Plymouth’s own Tom Daley, Tonia Couch and Sarah Barrow.

Olympic bronze medallist Tom Daley’s only event of the competition will be on the final day in his favoured 10 metre Platform against Olympic silver medallist Peter Waterfield while European champions Tonia Couch and Sarah Barrow will defend their 10 metre Synchro title in Plymouth.

Sarah has recently returned to Plymouth Diving Club to train with Tonia under Andy Banks and she admitted she hopes the switch will pay dividends as they look to improve on their fourth place from the 2011 World Championships at this year’s Worlds in Barcelona.

“It’s been really good since moving back down to Plymouth,” said Sarah. “We started back in September Tom Daley will compete in the 10 metre platform and have obviously collected a few more divers since then as well. It’s a bit more relaxing now because Tonia and I are always diving together rather than before In the absence of defending champion Stacie Powell, the women’s individual 10 when we would meet up for a few days to work on dives and it would be quite metre Platform will see a new champion crowned. stressful.”

And while 2011 champion Tonia could be favourite to reclaim her title, Sarah insists she won’t make it easy for her synchro partner.

“It’s been a while since I had a good hit out in the individual and I’ve got nothing to lose this year,” said Sarah. “I’ve been working on my back three and a half which I did between 2008 and 2010 but haven’t really done since.

“Obviously my main competitor will be Tonia but I’ll just give it a go and see how it goes.”

Other events to whet the appetite in Plymouth include the battle between Chris Mears and Jack Laugher for the men’s individual springboard crowns and the challenge of Hannah Starling and Alicia Blagg to their City of Leeds teammate Rebecca Gallantree’s dominance in the women’s 3 metre.

Councillor Peter Smith, deputy leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “We are really pleased to be hosting this year’s championships and welcoming the UK’s top divers to the city.

“The Plymouth Life Centre has only been open for nine and a half months but has already seen over a million visitors and won international acclaim for its swimming and diving facilities. We look forward to what promises to be an exciting competition and an impressive display of British diving talent.”

Tickets for the event are on sale on the Ticketmaster website.

For more information visit www.swimming.org.

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Sarah Barrow and Tonia Couch competing in the 10 metre Synchro at the 2012 Olympics

the plymouth magazine

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The stunning gardens at Chateau de Villandry in the Loire – one of the highlights of a seven day tour with RHS Garden Holidays

For some time now holidays haven’t just been defined as a traditional two-week sunshine break in August.

Travellers have become much more diverse with their holiday choices and more specific with their requirements.

This has resulted in a significant increase in the number of specialist tour operators offering trips that cater for particular sports, hobbies and interests. Even certain cruise departures are now themed to the arts, history and dance with many offering presentations by guest speakers with vast knowledge in their particular field.

We were therefore delighted when Peter Goord Travel was selected as one of only a handful of travel agents in the country to offer Royal Horticultural Society Holidays operated by Collette Worldwide.

RHS Garden Holidays offer some of the finest horticulturally-themed holidays around the world. All the holidays featured have a strong horticultural emphasis; meaning they offer private entry to public gardens, visits to private gardens or the chance to see plants in their natural habitat.

All the tours are led by expert guides who ensure the holidays are rich in cultural

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interest, so if your travelling companion is by chance slightly less horticulturally minded than you are, there is still plenty for them to enjoy. For those travelling alone or those who find it difficult to carry their luggage, a door to door ‘luggage handling’ service if offered free of charge.

The exclusive Collette Worldwide brochure features some fantastic holidays with departures in 2013 and 2014. Some examples include: • The Gardens of Loire – a seven day tour • Portugal Gardens featuring the Azores and Lisbon - a nine day tour • Andalucía - Land of the Castles, Palaces and Gardens for seven days • Gardens of Rome - a six day tour and gardens and villas of the Italian Lakes for nine days Those who are looking to travel further afield are also very well catered for in a selection of worldwide tours including: • • • • •

New Zealand’s Garden Route for a 20 day tour The Beauty of Japan over 13 days Gardens of American History - 11 days Floral Wonders of South Africa for 16 days Historic Gardens of America’s North East

travel matters

visit some of the world’s most stunning gardens To celebrate the launch of this fantastic programme of holidays, Collette Worldwide are offering an exclusive deal to readers of the Plymouth Magazine.

If you confirm one of their RSH holidays before March 31, they will provide a free airport transfer (with home pick-up) valued at over £300.

office and collect a copy of the brochure in advance of our open day to see which holidays best suit your requirements. Please call us to reserve your copy as soon as possible.

Renewing the passport is one particular task that many travellers often tend to leave until the last minute. This can present problems and sometimes even result in disruption to travel arrangements.

You will also qualify for an additional discount of up to £300 off per couple as an early booking incentive as well as complimentary membership to the RHS when booking any of their holidays. If you are already a member, your existing membership will be renewed automatically.

In order to save time and money and avoid stress, I would strongly suggest that everyone checks the validity of their passport today.

If you have six months or less remaining, you should renew immediately.

To coincide with the launch of our partnership with the RHS and Collette Worldwide Holidays, we will be holding an open day on March 1 and a representative from RHS Garden Holidays will be on hand to discuss any of their tours.

Everyone is welcome but we will have limited time and space for discussions with our visitor so we will be working to an appointment system. Please therefore give me a call to reserve some time to chat with our specialist.

If you have less than a year, I would check the minimum validity requirements for any countries you plan to visit and seriously consider renewing now or immediately after your next trip. If you decide to

By Travel Expert Anthony Goord

• continued on next page

Prior to this date you are, of course, most welcome to pop into the

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travel matters

Fountains at Villa d’Este in Tivoli – one of the highlights of a nine day tour to the Gardens of Rome with RHS Garden Holidays

chance to see some of the world’s most stunning gardens • continued from previous page (or have no choice but to) wait a while, at least plan the renewal and get it in your diary!

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Many countries now demand at least six months validity remaining on your passport after your return journey and some require the issue of visas, which can involve sending your passport away.

There is no doubt that the passport offices are definitely quieter at this time of year and applications are therefore turned around faster. It is also worth remembering that if you renew early, they will apply up to an additional six months of validity on your new passport to compensate. If you don’t feel entirely confident with completing the passport application forms, the Post Office offer a check and send service for a small fee, which guarantees delivery and peace of mind!

We are fast approaching February and in particular the 14th when many couples decide to take a holiday or short break together to celebrate their love on Valentine’s Day. Travelling on or around this date can often result in paying higher prices due to demand so it might be an idea to surprise your partner on Valentine’s Day with the gift of a trip away later in the year. This way, the gift can be treasured for longer, you will both have something to look forward to and you can take advantage of more availability choices at better prices!

Happy holidays!

Japan’s Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – included in the itinerary for the 13 day Beauty of Japan tour TM

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

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art matters

Mathias Landwehr of 45 Southside Gallery

Throughout February handmade jewellery will be featured at 45 Southside Gallery on Plymouth’s historic Barbican.

A wide range of styles and materials will be on display including silver, embroidered, ceramic and wirework pieces. The artists include Sarah Fell, Anne Cope, Frances Spice, Remon Jephcott, Julie Murdoch George, Sarah McCormack, Beverley Bailey and Kate Packer.

The owners of the gallery, Kirsten Kruse and Mathias Landwehr, frequently attend Plymouth College of Art shows, where they keep a keen eye out for new talent coming through.

Kate Packer’s skill with wire work was one such artist who caught their attention.

Kate started off by producing wire drawings that could be mounted on the wall. Gradually her work became smaller and more intricate; her use of coloured wire introduced a beautiful new dimension to her craft.

A recent graduate from Plymouth College of Art, she features fine details of animals, by insects, pods and vegetables. Nature is the foundation and persistent inspiration for her Kerry Cole work, interpreted through the interlacing of the thread-like wire that she twists and weaves to shape and form her designs.

Delicate yet strong, Kate’s sculptural wire-work is made from thin colour-coated copper wire and black florist wire. Her unusual pieces make a change from traditional jewellery and are very affordable.

As we get into the swing of 2013, 45 Southside Gallery will host a number of exciting exhibitions. In March all are welcome to meet internationally renowned Tim Andrews on the evening of the March 1 between 6pm and 8pm.

Plymouth College of Art graduate Kate Packer with examples of her sculptural wire work

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Tim, who is based a locally-based potter, has gained widespread recognition with his distinctive smoke-fired and raku ceramics. For his latest work he has mastered some very difficult techniques and challenges to combine raku, porcelain and black stoneware. His pieces have been acquired for both public and private collections and are exhibited across the UK and abroad. If you can’t make the

internationally

renowned potter tim andrews to exhibit at 45 southside

opening night with the artist himself, remember the exhibition runs from the March 2 to March 31.

Tim has been working as a potter for more than 35 years, starting as an apprentice to David Leach in the 1970s.

Speaking of his own work and experience Tim said: “Ceramics doesn’t recognise age and only nods its head occasionally towards experience.

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“The raku firing process continues to surprise and frustrate me. Of all ceramic methods, raku in particular prefers to remain feral by nature, refusing to be tied down or controlled.

“Of course that is its appeal as well as its frustration. I still find working within a limited colour palette provides endless possibilities. The same raw materials have been used for centuries: clay - river washed and stratified, metal oxides and minerals from the ground used to produce colour and depth in glazes.

“The historical and material gaps are small. Human intervention and expression transforms and imparts meaning that we can all engage with. Linear decoration using smoke and ‘resist’ remains my favourite technique – black, white and just a few glazes. The soft burnished or glazed surfaces for me, lend a warmth and intimacy to the pieces, integrating form and decoration.”

Tim Andrews with one of his pieces and (below) Humbugs: another of his creations

His latest work was inspired by a visit to China, where he went to the old Sung Dynasty kiln sites. The outcome of his perseverance is some truly stunning work, so do consider going down to hear Tim or pop along to the exhibition.

For more information visit the website www.45southside.co.uk or e-mail arts@45southside.co.uk. Tel: 01752 224974

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

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family-run meze grill is a favourite for city diners A family-run restaurant in the Barbican offering authentic Greek and Mediterranean dishes is proving increasingly popular with the city’s diners.

The Meze Grill overlooking Sutton Harbour is located in a centuries old building, formerly a chandlery.

The Grade 2 Listed building has a been painstakingly restored by the Oxinou family who have demonstrated their commitment to the Barbican with an £800,000 investment in the Meze Grill.

Well-known Plymouth businessman Barry Oxinou and his family acquired the former Marine Bazaar building three years ago and after gaining planning permission for the project, spent over a year carefully restoring the building.

As much of the original timbers and flooring as possible was reused in developing a sophisticated and stylish setting.

The restaurant occupies two floors linked by an impressive staircase fabricated from old railway sleepers and can accommodate up to 150 diners in spacious comfort.

It is not only an ideal venue for couples and families but also for larger groups and parties because of the restaurant’s capacity – a factor which helped increase Christmas bookings by 50 per cent in 2012.

Barry said: “There are few, if any, restaurants, which can

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accommodate groups of up to 80 people in comfort and style, something which sets the Meze Grill apart from many other venues.”

The family-run restaurant is managed by Barry’s son Costas, while sister Holly works there when she is not studying at university and Barry’s wife Anna is also on hand to help out the 15-strong kitchen and front of house team.

Barry said that the restaurant’s meze selection was particularly popular with diners, offering authentic Greek selections at value for money prices.

The restaurant’s a la carte menu features a selection of Greek meze starters such as hummus, taramasalata, grilled haloumi and calamari. Traditional favourites such as prawn and salmon cocktail, moules mariniere and king prawns are also available.

Mains include the most popular Greek dishes such as moussaka, stuffed peppers, stifado, kleftico and chicken tava – a slow-cooked Greek style chicken casserole.

Grills including steaks and lamb cutlets are also featured as well as a selection of souvlakia – Greek style skewered meat and fish with vegetables.

Meze Grill’s lunchtime menu is available from 12 noon right through until the early evening from Monday to Saturday and offers excellent value at £12.95 for three courses of authentic Greek dishes as well as favourites such as prawn cocktail, moules mariniere and sea bass. One and two course options are also available at £7.50 and £9.95 respectively.

food matters

Chefs Alfonso and Jordan and (below) restaurant manager Costas Oxinou

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Launched last year, Meze’s Sunday Roast is available at a similar price of £12.95 for three courses, with a good selection of starters, mains – including roast beef or roast lamb – and home made desserts. One and two course options are available at £7.50 and £9.95 respectively.

Barry said: “Our Sunday roast is growing in popularity all the time, particularly as it is available from 12 noon to 7pm each week. Families and couples often want to have lunch later in the day or early evening, which means they can make the most of their day together.”

With increasing competition from the Royal William Yard, Barry welcomed the opening of the new Rhodes@ The Dome venue and the announcement that top chef Mitch Tonks plans to open a RockFish restaurant alongside the National Marine Aquarium.

the huge potential of the Barbican and The Hoe.”

Barry said: “The Barbican and Sutton Harbour have a fantastic selection of independent locally-owned restaurants and it’s great to know that Gary Rhodes and Mitch Tonks see

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The internationally acclaimed Hofesh Shechter Company return to the Theatre Royal in March

what’s on?

theatres & shows Theatre Royal

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

Until Feb 9 Dirty Dancing

An unprecedented live experience, exploding with heart-pounding music, passionate romance and sensationally sexy dancing. Seen by millions, this world-wide smash tells the classic story of Baby and Johnny, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds, who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives. Featuring hit songs including Hungry Eyes, Hey Baby, Do You Love Me? and the heart-stopping I’ve Had The Time Of My Life!

Until Feb 13 Theatre Royal Tour and Lunch

Take a look behind-the-scenes and view the Theatre Royal auditorium from the stage, see the flexible format of the Drum Theatre, the orchestra pit, the trap-rooms and front of house.

Glimpse inside the dressing rooms, wings and backstage areas and experience some of the theatricality, heritage and tradition of the theatre in the company of our well-informed guides. Finish off your tour with lunch in the Theatre Royal’s restaurant, the mezz. Places must be booked in advance: call the Box Office for details.

Feb 12 to Feb 16 Taming of The Shrew and Twelfth Night

The internationally acclaimed Propeller makes a triumphant return to the Theatre Royal Plymouth with two of

Shakespeare’s most popular works. In The Taming Of The Shrew, two disguised, competing suitors clamour for the hand of beautiful Bianca whilst gold digging Petruchio agrees to wed her viciously ill-tempered sister Kate.

The difference between marrying for love and marrying for money, however, becomes increasingly difficult to judge.

Twelfth Night tells a twisted tale of mistaken identity, transformation and deception. Dark and delightful, the play asks ‘What happens when you fall in love with the wrong person?’ and the answer is both beautiful and bittersweet. One thing is certain - nobody does Shakespeare like Propeller.

Feb 25 to Mar 2 Driving Miss Daisy

The charming, poignant and utterly compelling tale of the unlikely, longlasting friendship that blossoms between prickly, elderly, Southern matriarch Daisy Werthan played by Gwen Taylor (Barbara, Coronation Street) and her kind hearted chauffeur played by Don Warrington (Rising Damp). As the wheels turn and

decades roll by against a background of prejudice, inequality and social unrest, the pair slowly transcend their differences.

Mar 6 to Mar 9 Birmingham Royal Ballet

Birmingham Royal Ballet returns to the Theatre Royal Plymouth with Aladdin, choreographed by Director

Feb 19 to Feb 23 High Society

Cole Porter’s timeless classic skips into town in a dazzling new production.

Wealthy socialite Tracy Lord is in the midst of planning a lavish summer wedding when her ex-husband turns up to disrupt proceedings in an attempt to win her back. Adapted from the 1956 film starring screen legends Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly and Frank Sinatra, High Society bubbles with a host of beautiful ballads including True Love, You’re Sensational and Well, Did You Evah!

» Exclusive to Plymouth Magazine Readers - Free Home Pick up! » Up to £300 off per couple » Free membership on all bookings to the RSH

For more details or to reserve a copy of their new colour brochure call Peter Goord Travel

01752 364186 New Jersey Nights celebrates the sound of Frank Valli and the Four Seasons at the Theatre Royal in March

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19

theatres & shows

Mar 26 and Mar 27 Hofesh Shechter Uprising/The Art of Not Looking Back

The internationally acclaimed Hofesh Shechter Company return to the Theatre Royal Plymouth after 2010’s exclusive preview performances of Political Mother. In Uprising seven men emerge from the shadows to bombard the stage with furious energy. Set to Shechter’s throbbing percussive score, this highly charged work plays with the idea of masculinity - exploring brotherhood and friendship. The Art of Not Looking Back is inspired by, and made for, the world class female dancers of the Hofesh Shechter Company. Physical, complex and unrelenting; this work explores loss and separation.

of Birmingham Royal Ballet, David Bintley. A run-in with Palace guards leads young tearaway Aladdin into a whirlwind of adventure and romance, involving unbelievable riches, love at first sight, treachery, and of course a magic lamp and all that it contains…

Mar 11 to Mar 16 New Jersey Nights

This international hit show comes to Plymouth for one week only, taking you on a musical journey celebrating the greatest hits of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. With four great singers, perfect harmonies, a live band and amazing dancers, Jersey Nights features hits including Sherry, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Big Girls Don’t Cry and Oh What A Night.

Mar 18 to Mar 23 Birdsong

A story of love, courage and sacrifice during the Great War is brought to

Critically acclaimed Birdsong is at the Theatre Royal in March

the stage in this critically acclaimed production of Sebastian Faulks’ bestselling novel. As war breaks out, young Englishman Stephen Wraysford must lead his men through the carnage of the Battle of the Somme, clinging to

the memory of the beautiful Isabelle as his world explodes around him.

The production stars Sarah Jayne Dunn (Hollyoaks), Charlie G Hawkins (EastEnders) and Arthur Bostrom (‘Allo ‘Allo!).

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the plymouth magazine

what’s on?

Drum Theatre Royal Parade Plymouth Box Office 01752 267222

Jan 30 to Feb 1 School Ties

School Ties encourages young people to explore what really goes into making a production from page to stage. Students from Eggbuckland Community College and Austin Farm Primary School have worked together to produce two shows, A Girl Called Eva and The Lemons’ Labyrinth Lives, with each school performing the show written by the other.

unable to move. As he struggled to recover, he discovered the entire role of Lear still existed, word for word, in his mind. This Drum Theatre co-production brings together Edward Petherbridge and Told By An Idiot in a moving comic exploration of the resilience of the human spirit through the prism of Shakespeare.

Mar 6 to Mar 16 Sailors & Sweethearts

Presented by the Tamaritans Theatre Company. Based on the true story of the WI members who posed nude for a calendar. Marvellous uplifting theatre.

Guaranteed to make you laugh, cry and leave feeling so much better.

Inspired by the paintings of Beryl Cook, Sailors & Sweethearts is a celebration of the Plymouth she captured – a vibrant and unique city with a clear identity and future ahead of it. This Theatre Royal Plymouth People’s Company production features performers from the local community and draws on real stories of nights out in Plymouth and the impact they have had on the lives of people in the city and beyond.

Feb 14 to Mar 2 My Perfect Mind

Mar 21 to Apr 6 Forever House

Feb 5 to Feb 9 Calendar Girls – The Tamaritans

Acclaimed classical actor Edward Petherbridge rehearsed for the role of King Lear before a major stroke left him

In a terrace house in Plymouth, three different couples are cautiously looking to the future. Teenager Richard is

toProud serve

Plymouth

for 150 years

Join us for Valentines in our Historic Year with a 3 course dinner, in our award winning restaurant, with romantic piano music and a gift for your partner for £30 per person Watch out for details on special events and promotions on our website: www.thedukeofcornwall.co.uk the plymouth magazine

21

what’s on?

Forever House is a Drum Theatre production in March

theatres & shows plotting his escape to art college, mum-to-be Laura has big plans for her forever home, and in the middle of the night, marine expert Mark has an unexpected visitor…This Drum Theatre Plymouth production is a story of buried secrets and new beginnings, a black comedy-drama that asks the question: can you ever really start again?

Barbican Theatre Castle Street, Plymouth Box Office: 01752 267131

Mondays Voices 4 Change

Voices 4 Change is a free weekly session for 12-18 year olds that explores many of the challenges that young people face today.

Tuesdays Dance Young Apprentices

Weekly sessions to develop dance skills.

Wednesdays Dance Young Apprentices

Weekly sessions to develop theatre skills.

Feb 8 Ordinary Courage

Six dancers and a live piano - a new dance piece about a damaged community that harnesses the capacity for movement when words are not enough. Part of the Boys Are Back In Town Season.

Mar 8 Pictures We Make

Pictures We Make is part of The Boys are Back In Town, a season of dance performances & workshops from a vibrant collection of male choreographers.

Mar 15 In My Shoes’

In My Shoes’ is a story about a father and a son who have a troublesome relationship that lacks respect and understanding. In a desperate attempt

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the plymouth magazine

to save their relationship, they attend an extreme therapy session which makes them consider the difficulties faced by others to develop their understanding of how it feels to be in another person’s shoes. The piece uses movement, dialogue and interaction to portray challenging real life experiences that will have a lasting effect on the audience’s compassion for others in real life while exposing them to an entertaining piece of hiphop theatre.

Mar 22 Napoleon: A Defence

A comedy show for all the family featuring live music, physical theatreclowning, a ship, a cannon and even some beautiful costumes.

Napoleon: A Defence is a one hour show based on the premise of four clowns deciding that Napoleon was innocent of all charges and attempting a defence of his character, his record, and his obsession with Josephine’s body odour.

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

Feb 1 Becky Brine & Julian Isaacs

A unique musical evening in the company of famed local Devon swingsinging diva Ms Becky Brine and hot rhythm rocker Julian Isaacs. With special guests.

Feb 6 and Mar 6 Comedy Night

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

Feb 7 Lady Killaz with Lena Smith

A strand of programming with a women-only, monthly session called Ladykillaz. Features Lena Smith - a local piano-based singer-songwriter, with a distinct and original style. She performs her own songs as a solo artist and with her band.

Feb 8 Claude Bourbon

This finger picking guitarist has

the plymouth magazine

23

what’s on?

We are looking for new players If you fancy a new challenge in 2013, dust off your instrument and come along to our open rehearsals Age: !

16-99

Rehearsals

Monday Nights 7pm-9pm Plymouth College, just off Mutley Plain (Meeting Room)

Open Rehearsals :

theatres & shows performed and studied all over the world; he has crafted an unbelievable fusion of classical and jazz, with ethereal Eastern influences, Spanish and Latin elements with strains of Western folk.

Feb 13 , Feb 27, Mar 13, Mar 27 Café Acoustica

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

EACH MONDAY IN FEBRUARY EXCEPT 18.2.2013 If you are then interested in joining there will be a short informal audition.

For further details, please email Karen on:

kball15@hotmail.co.uk

*Percussion *Trombones *Trumpets *Horns *Clarinets *Tuba *Oboe

Feb 15 Curacao Trio

Tight arrangements around exciting rhythms such as Mambo, Songo, ChaChaCha and Samba drive the music forward with creative improvised melodies adding a sense of drama and excitement to the already infectious sounds of Latin Jazz.

Feb 22 Jason Baxter

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24

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the plymouth magazine

spectacular easter panto at pavilions A spectacular all new professional Easter pantomime version of the classic story, The Wizard of Oz is coming to Plymouth Pavilions on April 3 and 4.

Starring the hilarious Bobby Davro as Scarecrow and children’s favourite Sarah-Jane Honeywell from CBeebies Tikkabilla, Mighty Mites, ZingZillas and Higgledy House, the production includes a full supporting cast and amazing dancers! Also, yet to be announced... a very special guest star as Dorothy!!

Join the fun this spring as Enchanted Entertainment present this amazing Easter pantomime version of the L. Frank Baum book.

Packed with great songs, brilliant dance routines and plenty of laughter for all the family!

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

As a solo artist Jason Baxter mixes virtuoso driving barrelhouse boogie woogie with an authentic down-home blues piano style, reflecting influences from Albert Ammons, Memphis Slim and Otis Spann through to Jools Holland.

Feb 6 Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

Feb 28 and Mar 28 Thomas Ford

Feb 11 Little Mix

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

With the UK’s music scene in need of a fresh-faced girl band, Little Mix are blessed with the tunes and personalities to stake their claim as the most thrilling prospect in chart music today!

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

Feb 2 The Classic Rock Show

After the success of their critically acclaimed 2012 UK tour and as a testimony to the immense popularity of classic rock music, The Classic Rock Show is back – bigger and even better!

Feb 5 Guinness World Records Officially Amazing Science Live

Ever wanted to be a Guinness World Records record holder? Well, for the first time ever live on stage, Guinness World Records Totally Bonkers Science is coming to Plymouth Pavilions! This explosive spectacular will show you the best, the wackiest and the officially amazing attempts and records from around the world.

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac replicate perfectly the power, subtlety and lush, hypnotic emotion of Fleetwood Mac at their breathtaking best.

Feb 13 Boogie Nights - The 70s Musical Concert

Boogie Nights features all the hits songs of the 70s, an all star cast of 14 singers, dancers and live musicians including The Osmond Brothers, West End and recording star Gareth Gates, big band and soul singer Andy Abraham and Dancing On Ice finalist and pop phenomena Chico, plus Shane Richie Junior.

Feb 21 The Australian Pink Floyd Show

The Australian Pink Floyd Show are much more than a tribute to the great music of Pink Floyd, and were described by The Times as ‘the gold standard’. The band attempt to capture and convey the spirit as well as the sound and slavish attention is lavished upon their jaw-dropping visuals and effects.

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the plymouth magazine

25

pavilions to host top stars in may

Four of the biggest and most decorated names in snooker are coming together for a very special Snooker Legends show at Plymouth Pavilions on Sunday May 19.

Seven times world champion Stephen Hendry, teams up with six times champion Steve Davis, to take on the Whirlwind Jimmy White and 1986 world champion Joe Johnson! Doubles and singles, only one team can win!

This is a once in a lifetime chance to see, and meet, four legends of the game with special VIP tickets available.

what’s on?

John Virgo will be on hand to provide expert analysis and generally keep the crowds entertained while Bristol’s own, leading referee, Michaela Tabb will officiate on this special night.

Stephen said: “It’s great to be playing in Plymouth with the Legends Tour and to get the chance to say thank you to all the local fans who supported me throughout my career” Jimmy said: “We always get a great crowd in at Plymouth, snooker is very strong in the West Country and this is Joe’s first show with us so it’ll be great to see him playing Steve again recreating their finals from the 1980s!”

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

theatres & shows Plymouth Pavilions Millbay Road, Plymouth Box Office: 0845 146 1460

Feb 27 Anton & Erin Go To Hollywood

In a salute to the Golden Years of the MGM musicals, the UK’s favourite dancing duo Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag are back with a dazzling new show, featuring sassy tunes, sensational choreography and sparkling costumes that conjure up all the fizz and razzmatazz of Hollywood at its best.

Mar 6 to Mar 8 Micky Flanagan

Micky Flanagan – one of British comedy’s biggest stars – will travel the length and breadth of the UK & Ireland for what will be the most anticipated comedy tour of 2013, taking in 57 shows.

Mar 9 Milton Jones – On the Road

If you like your comedy clever and surreal, then this is the show for you!

Milton has been a panelist many times on Mock the Week (BBC2), and

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the plymouth magazine

was recently to be seen on Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow (BBC1).

Mar 11 and Mar 12 Chinese State Circus

2000 years of tradition explode on stage with a spectacular extravaganza featuring 30 Chinese artists who perform remarkable acrobatics, martial arts and live musicians. The show includes a remarkable display of human juggling, the superb swinging poles, the sensational contortionist and dynamic hoop divers.

Mar 21 Hollywood Blockbusters

The Bournemouth Symphony Orchastra return to Plymouth Pavilions with the sound of Hollywood Blockbusters. The concert features classic film scores which have accompanied numerous memorable Hollywood hits including music from Romeo & Juliet, Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, Pirates of the Caribbean and many more.

Apr 3 and Apr 4 Wizard of Oz

See panel on previous page.

Apr 9 Simple Minds

Simple Minds are arguably one of the best live bands in the world and over a thirty year career have been responsible for some of the most innovative and enduring anthems in rock music.

Get a glimpse behind the scenes of Shaun’s world at Eden!

Modelmaking workshops with Aardman experts Learn how to animate at the live Animate It! shows Shaun the Sheep screenings Shaun trail around the Biomes Help make the biggest flock of pom pom sheep ever!

WIN one of 5 sets of Eden day tickets for 2 adults and 2 children!

www.edenproject.com

Enter online at www.edenproject.com/ plymouthmagazine

The Eden Project, Bodelva, St Austell, Cornwall PL24 2SG Tel. 01726 811911 Š Aardman Animations Ltd 2013

the plymouth magazine

27

what’s on?

cesar

– the wo famou behavio – is to sh secre plymouth Dog behaviour expert Cesar Millan will transform dogs and their owners with his new live show which comes to Plymouth Pavilions on Saturday April 27.

Cesar, who is the star of hit TV series ‘Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan,’ will share his secrets on how to build happier, healthier relationships between humans and their canine companions.

On this all new live tour, Cesar will share valuable lessons and insights including: • How to read your dog’s body language in order to prevent and resolve remedial problems.

• How you can tune into your dog’s instincts and energy.

• Understanding a dog’s instinctual world and how it impacts their behaviour.

• Identify triggers and learn to recognise what true aggression is.

• Learn how your energy combined with your dog’s instincts is the key in resolving aggression.

“A dog’s world is one of instincts - this world is very different from the human world, which is fast-paced, full of stress and ultimately creates unbalance in dogs.

The instinctual world is one of energy, harmony and calmness,” says Millan.

“My new seminar tour will give dog owners the tools to recognize how to create an environment of balance and calmness for their dogs. This will prevent and resolve every day problems.

“I hope that through understanding the world dogs live in, people will transform their dogs and maybe a bit of themselves at the same time.”

Oprah Winfrey, Scarlett Johansson, Will Smith and Nicolas Cage have all had their dogs trained and balanced by Cesar Millan. His hit TV series has been screened for nine years and broadcast in 80 countries worldwide.

Known for his uncanny instinct and ability with canines, he has rehabilitated countless dogs with extreme behavioural issues – ranging from insecurity to severe ‘red zone’ aggression.

Born and raised in Mexico, Cesar went to America to pursue his dream of becoming the greatest dog trainer in the world.

Through years of observation, awareness and firsthand experience, Cesar developed his own formulas to keep dogs balanced, calm, and submissive.

Cesar does not ‘train’ dogs in the sense of teaching them commands like ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ and ‘heel’ - he rehabilitates unbalanced dogs and helps ‘re-train’ their owners to better understand how to see the world through a dog’s eyes.

He has written several books on the subject. Millan’s first three books, including Cesar’s Way, all became New York Times best sellers, have cumulatively sold two million copies in the United States, and are available in 14 other countries.

28

the plymouth magazine

r millan

orld’s most us dog our expert hare his ets with h audience A limited number of VIP tickets costing £99 will be available for each show and they will include best seats and a Q&A session with Cesar, scheduled to take place after his show.

Please note: Cesar Millan Live is for people training, therefore no dogs are allowed at the venues - only approved service dogs are permitted.

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

2D Pictures with Felt Introductory Workshop

Sunday 10th February 2013 - 10am to 1pm Use beautiful Merrino Wool fibres, create a unique felted picture using the wet felting method. All materials provided. Tickets cost £15 per person Check www.mountedgcumbe.gov.uk for more events All tickets should be booked in advance by contacting: Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park Tel: 01752 822236 email: mt.edgcumbe@plymouth.gov.uk the plymouth magazine

29

SOUNDS MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY

Proudly presents

cello and piano duo star in chamber series concert

At Devonport Playhouse Devonport, PL1 4DW

6th - 9th March Directed by Karen Lambert, Musical Direction Jenny George

Evenings at 7:30pm Adapted by RONALD HAMMER and PHIL PARK From the stage play by CHARLS K FREEMAN after WARNER BROS. Film written by JAMES O’HANLON Lyrics by PAUL FRANCIS WEBSTER Music by SAMMY FAIN This amateur production is prsented by arrangement with JOSEF WEINBERGER LTD.

2013

(Sat Matinee 2:30pm) Box Office 01752 510934 Adults: £12 Concession: £11 Children: £6 Matinee: Adults: £11 Concessions: £10 Children: £6

music Feb 2 Plymouth Jazz Club

Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill Featuring the Great Western Jazz Band. Details 01752 721179.

Feb 12 Charity event

The Wet Wok, West Hoe, Plymouth Elaine Davies features in the Cavitron Charity Lunch Feb 17 Plymouth Jazz Club

Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill Featuring the Savannah Jazz Band.

Details 01752 721179.

Feb 22 to 24 Peninsula Arts Contemporary Music Festival 2013

Roland Levinsky Building, Plymouth University ‘Sensing Memory’. Events include: Ten Tors Orchestra premieres of Symphony of the Mind by Eduardo Miranda. The festival also premieres of music by Nick Ryan, Nick Grew, David Bessell, David Strang, Joel Eaton, Will McNicol and Many Worlds by Alexis Kirke.

Introducing the new jazz ensemble The Nameless. Information from Peninsula Arts, Plymouth University Tel: 01752 585050. www.peninsula-arts.co.uk Feb 23 Plymouth & District Organists’ Association

Moorland Garden Hotel Annual Lunch, guest speaker Andrew Wilson. Contact 01822 833728 for information.

Feb 24 and Mar 24 Carlton Big Band

The Royal Plymouth Corinthian Yacht Club, Madeira Road, The Hoe, Plymouth Tickets from 01752 664327, Kerry’s Music 01752 227120 or Elaine on 07973 600190. Bookings available for carvery and light lunches.

Mar 2 Adventures of Mr Toad

30

the plymouth magazine

Cellist Evva Mizerska and pianist Emma Abbate star in the latest concert in the Peninsula Arts Chamber Music Series at the Sherwell Centre, Plymouth on March 23.

Evva and Emma started working together in 2003 and have performed extensively in the UK. They have just released their debut CD with Toccata Classics – a world’s premiere recording of complete works for cello and piano by the contemporary Polish composer Krysztof Meyer.

They will perform a programme which includes works by Beethoven, Debussy and Chopin.

Tickets and details from 01752 585050 or at www.peninsula-arts.co.uk West themed musical loosely based on the life of Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickcock, played by Hollie Littlefair and Matthew Becker. It is strewn with favourite musical numbers including Secret Love, Deadwood Stage, Black Hills of Dakota and many more. The show is being directed by Karen Lambert and the orchestra is in the very capable hands of the company musical director Jenny George. Tickets available from Val Hodgins on Plymouth 510934.

Mar 7 20th International Concert Series

Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery 20th Anniversary Composers’ Concert featuring local composers Philip R Buttall, Marsha de Thornley Head, Terence Higgins and Clive Jenkins.

Peter Fisher, violin, and Jonathan Delbridge, piano, will be supporting Philip, Clive and Terry in the performance of their compositions. The events celebrates the 20th International Concert Series, promoted by Jeanie Moore, which has brought to Plymouth artists from across the globe.Tickets £8.50 from Museum Shop (Tues - Sat 10am-4pm) or from www.wegottickets. com/event/155226 Mar 9 Church visits

Burrington Community Centre, Saltash Presented by the Transition Theatre Co: a musical in two acts.

Tickets 01752 843073

Plymouth and District Organists’ Association visits to Church of Ascension, Crownhill at 11am and on to St. Peter’s Church at 2.30 pm to hear the new organ. No charge. Contact 01822 833728 for information.

Mar 6 to Mar 9 Calamity Jane

Mar 16 Mozart’s Requiem

Devonport Playhouse Presented by Sounds Musical Theatre Company, Calamity Jane is a Wild

St Andrew’s Minster Church, Plymouth University of Plymouth Choral Society with UPCS Sinfonia with conductor

what’s on?

Simon Ible and soloists Hye-Youn Lee, soprano; Clare Presland, mezzo-soprano; Tyrone Clarke, tenor and Simon Thorpe, baritone. Tickets 01752 585050. www.peninsula-arts.co.uk Mar 1 7 Plymouth Philharmonic Choir

The Guildhall, Royal Parade, Plymouth Featuring Fauré: Requiem. Commissioned work by young British composer Alexander Campkin. Soloist TBA. Tickets from Christian Literature Centre, Plymouth; Framing Centre, Hyde Park Road, Plymouth or 01364 72429.

Mar 20 Plymouth Symphony Orchestra

The Guildhall, Royal Parade, Conductor Anne Kimber, with Peter Fisher - violin.

Works to include Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto.

Mar 21 Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra

Plymouth Pavilions Hollywood Blockbusters featuring classic film scores old and new including: Rota: Romeo & Juliet; Jarre: Lawrence

of Arabia; Zimmer: Gladiator; Horner: Troy; Goldsmith: Star Trek; Barry: Out of Africa; Williams: Schindler’s List; Zimmer: The Last Samurai; Dun: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon; Badelt: Pirates of the Caribbean; Horner: Avatar. Contact Pavilions Box Office 0845 146 1460.

Mar 22 Plymouth Area Police Choir

Elburton Methodist Church In aid of The Mission in Britain Fund.

Tickets Mrs J Weymouth 01752 404407 Mar 23 Plymouth Phoenix Chorale

St Peter’s Church, Wyndham Sq, Plymouth Musical director Rupert Bond. Featuring Bach’s St Matthew Passion and works

by Mozart and Stanford.

Mar 23 Peninsula Arts Chamber Music Series

Sherwell Centre, Plymouth University Evva Mizerska - cello, Emma Abbate - piano. See panel. Details 01752 585050. www.peninsula-arts.co.uk • continued on next page

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31

what’s on?

family events Events at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Drake Circus The Imaginators

Probably the best pet shop in the world!

Support your local Pet Shop!

OPENING TIMES Mon–Sat 9:30am-5:30pm

Pop in and see us!

We stock Blueberry Warren products and Lilys Kitchen foods and treats Catering for all your animal needs

Weston Park Road, Peverell Call 01752 783481 Email: mail@bellas-pets.co.uk Website: www.bellas-pets.co.uk

Admission free. Booking essential.

Free, fun creative learning sessions for pre-school children and their parents/ carers. 10.30am to 11.30am or 1pm to 2pm on Wednesdays (term time only).

Advance booking is essential. Call 01752 304665 to reserve your place.

Wild About Plymouth

Feb 23 Under the Microscope 11am to 1pm Davy Building, Plymouth University, Drake Circus. £3 per adult. £2 per child. Under 5s go free advance booking essential. Discover the strange and wonderful creatures of the miniature world using the microscopes in one of the University’s labs. Bugs, pollen and ancient microfossils will be out on display for you to view closer than ever before! We’ll be running a quiz with prizes for the winners. Why not bring along some of your own curiosities from your home or garden for our experts to identify?

Advance booking by Feb 18 essential.

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

Nature’s Inventions Mar 23 11am to 4pm. Find out some of the most interesting discoveries in the natural world! How do we know how fast dinosaurs ran? What amazing inventions have insects evolved to adapt to different environments? All of

major events

these and more will be answered through a series of interactive activities. No need to book. Drop in for as little or as long as you like.

Family Activities

Family fun sessions.

Aimed at children aged 4 to 11, but wrigglers and siblings are welcome. Admission is free and there is no need to book. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Drop in for as little or as long as you like. These sessions can get busy. All sessions are from 10.30am to 1pm unless stated.

Global Adventures Feb 2 1.30pm to 2.15pm and 2.30pm to 3.15pm. Join a professional storyteller for a fantastic voyage around the world on the Good Ship of Tales for stories from far and wide. All stories are suitable for children aged 4 and up (wrigglers and siblings are welcome too), all of whom must be accompanied by a responsible adult. World culturethemed colouring and word activities will also be available to try after the sessions. Free entry, no need to book.

Make and Take

Make something then take it home with our seasonal creative sessions aimed at children aged five to 11 (all of whom must be accompanied by a responsible adult). Sessions run from 11am to 12 noon and 1.30pm to 2.30pm. Admission is free. Advance booking is essential on 01752 304774. Call on the day to see if any last-minute places are available Feb 22 Mar 22 Mar 30 Apr 6

Raiders v Durham Wildcats Raiders v Mersey Tigers Raiders v Sheffield Sharks Raiders v Worcester

Until Feb 24 Winter Ice Rink League 2 Football

Feb 2 Argyle v Dagenham & Red Feb 16 Argyle v Oxford Mar 2 Argyle v Barnet Mar 12 Argyle v Bradford City Mar 16 Argyle v Fleetwood Mar 30 Argyle v Exeter City Championship Rugby

Feb 16 Albion v Bedford Mar 9 Albion v Jersey Apr 13 Albion v Newcastle

British Basketball League

Feb 16 Raiders v Surrey Heat Feb 17 Raiders v Newcastle Eagles

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the plymouth magazine

Piazza, City Centre Nothing says winter more than pulling on your woolly hat, scarf and mittens and braving the cold for an open air skating session.

Feb 28 to Mar 3 Apr 4 to Apr 7 Continental Market

City Centre The hugely popular Continental Market is returning as part of a series of street markets being held in Plymouth City Centre. Featuring a wide variety of delicious produce brought to the city by traders from across the globe.

- although there is no guarantee any will remain.

Slippery Snakes Feb 9 11am to 12pm, 1.30pm to 2.30pm and 3pm to 4pm. Help mark the start of the Chinese New Year (the Year of the Snake) with some fun arty activities including paper chain snakes, spiral snakes and masks.

On Safari Feb 23 11am to 12pm, 1.30pm to 2.30pm and 3pm to 4pm. Be inspired by some of the

amazing objects on display in our natural history and world cultures galleries to make a jungle-themed gift bag, visor and more!

Yummy Mummy Mar 9 11am to 12pm, 1.30pm to 2.30pm Mother’s Day takes place on 10 March this year. Come in and make your own cards and keepsakes to give to your mum on her special day.

Eggstra Special Mar 30 11am to 12pm, 1.30pm to 2.30pm. It’s

the plymouth magazine

33

what’s on?

family events Easter! Be creative and make a chick in a basket plus some other seasonal keepsakes to celebrate the start of the holidays.

Half Term Activities

Mosaics for a Landscape Feb 16 10.30am to 12pm. Make beautiful mosaic tiles with artist, Jane Stevens inspired by the ‘Gordon Baldwin: Objects for a Landscape’ exhibition.

This session is suitable for children aged 6+. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Admission is free but places are limited.

Please book in advance by calling 01752 304774.

Photographic Portraits Feb 19 to Feb 23 10am to 5pm. Bring in a camera and set up a portrait of your family members or friends using some of our props and inspiration from our ‘Ida Kar: Bohemian Photographer’ exhibition. This is a

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self-directed activity that you can do at any time during out opening hours throughout the half term week.

Pinhole Camera Feb 20 10.30am to 1pm. Experience the magic of a Pinhole Camera! Patiently set up your camera in our Learning Centre and watch the image develop before your eyes. Admission is free but places are limited. Please book in advance by calling 01752 304774.

Interesting Insects Feb 20 10.30am to 1pm (last entries at 12.30pm). See specimens from the Museum’s insect collection up close through a microscope and then create your own. Admission is free and there is no need to book. Drop in for as little or as long as you like but please be patient if the session is busy as activities will be organised on a first come, first served basis.

Clay Creations Feb 21 10.30am to 1pm. Have fun making objects from air drying clay inspired by the ‘Gordon Baldwin: Objects for a Landscape’ exhibition, natural history and ceramic collections. Admission is free but places are limited. Please book in advance by calling 01752 304774.

All in Black and White Feb 21 10.30am to 1pm (last entries at 12.30pm). Create a striking black and white paper portrait using collage inspired by the photographs in the ‘Ida Kar: Bohemian Photographer’ exhibition. Admission is free but there is no need to book. Drop in for as little or as long as you like but please be patient if the session is busy as activities will be organised on a first

come, first served basis.

Various dates Contemporary Craft Workshops

Develop your creative skills with these sessions, which are suitable for all abilities and run from 10.30am to 3.30pm. All materials are supplied unless otherwise stated, but please bring your own lunch and an apron if

Mar 29 to Apr 1 Easter Egg Trail

Buckland’s most popular trail is back and even better! Will you finish it and claim your prize?

Apr 6 and Apr 7 Pond Dipping

Go along and find out what water beasties lurk in Buckland’s pond.

Apr 9 Costume Day

Step back in time and explore the costumes of Buckland Abbey. Join the volunteer Costume Group and find out all about fashions of the past.

Apr 13 and Apr 14 Den Building

you have one. Booking and payment in advance essential. Call 01752 304774

Join in an afternoon of den building and have fun at the same time.

Cotehele

Beautiful Beads Feb 2 Mix your mediums, using recycled papers, threads, paint and inks, wire, embossing powders and magical Tyvek – yes that’s the stuff they use in the building industry, create amazing beads to use in necklaces, bracelets and jewellery design. Suitable for 16+. No experience necessary.

Saltash 01579 351346

Mount Edgcumbe

Mar 23 and Mar 24 Daffodil Weekend

Cremyll 01752 822236

Feb 10 2D Pictures with Felt

Introductory workshop from 10am to 1pm. £15 per person - tickets much be booked in advance. See advert on page 29 for more details.

Mar 24 Easter Egg Hunt

The annual Easter Egg Hunt will take place at 2pm starting from the Orangery, Mount Edgcumbe Country Park

Buckland Abbey Yelverton 01822 853607

Feb 16 to Feb 18 Kite Making

Make and decorate your own kite using estate grown bamboo and sheep poo paper.

Feb 19 to Feb 21 Feed the Birds

Help cook up a New Year feast for feathered friends and make your own bird feeder to take home.

Feb 22 Greenfingers

Collect your Greenfingers log book and start growing. Over the year we’ll grow flowers, vegetables and fruit for you to take home and enjoy.

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Feb 18 to Feb 22 Half Term Fun

Fun outdoor family activities - make willow bird feeders on Monday, bushcraft for kids on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and on Friday make a miniature garden.

Booking essential.

Go along and see the wonderful collection of daffodils grown on the Cotehele Estate. Displays, walks and talks. Free event.

Mar 29 to Apr 1 Easter Egg Trail

Start Easter with the family Easter trail around Cotehele’s garden.

Apr 2 to Apr 14 Alternative Easter Trail

A trail around the Cotehele estate finishing at Cotehele Mill with a prize for all children.

Apr 10 Bushcraft for Older Children

A fun day for teenagers. Booking essential.

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Mar 29 to Apr 1 Egg-citing Easter Trail

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Mar 29 to Apr 11 Spring Crafts for Families

Get creative in Antony’s spring craft workshops.

Check First: We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our listings, but we recommend that you check details first to avoid disappointment.

the plymouth magazine

35

what’s on?

exhbitions & other events Events at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Drake Circus Various dates Art Bite Tours

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

Admission is free but places are limited. Collect a ticket from the Museum’s Welcome Desk or contact the museum.

Feb 27 Ida Kar: Artist with a Camera Feb 13 Cottonian Collection Until April 13 Ida Kar: Bohemian Photographer

In 1960 Ida Kar became the first

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photographer to have a retrospective exhibition at a major London art gallery.

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

Feb 2 to May 11 Gordon Baldwin: Objects for a Landscape

This major touring exhibition from York Museums Trust celebrates the achievements of Gordon Baldwin OBE, one of the most important ceramic

Clare Twomey who has created a new installation at the Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery

artists of our time. It will include around 100 works shown alongside related drawings, collages and photographs.

Apr 27 to June 29 The Making of a Modern City

Celebrate the 70th anniversary of Abercrombie and Watson’s ‘Plan for

Plymouth’ and get a unique insight into the reconstruction of the city following heavy bombing during World War 2.

The museum’s staff will be delving into the archive collections for this exhibition to reveal previously unseen documents, plans and images that record the people, politics and places that shaped the city we know today.

top ceramic artist creates new display Established British ceramic artist, Clare Twomey has created a brand new installation at the Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery inspired by the museum’s Plymouth Porcelain collection.

‘Plymouth Porcelain: A New Collection’ can be viewed above the doors of the China Connection gallery and will remain on display indefinitely. The artwork features 33 suspended cases containing white porcelain objects that have been cast from objects suggested by the people of Plymouth.

Objects were suggested for various reasons - in celebration of friends or family or because of related emotions and memories. Against the back drop of the Museum’s historic Plymouth Porcelain collection, the commission looks to the future by capturing the stories of people today.

This is the first time that Twomey, who has exhibited in the UK, Europe and America and who was the ceramic artist-in-residence at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum in 2011, has created a permanent work for a Museum.

‘Plymouth Porcelain: A New Collection’ has been made possible thanks to New Expressions 2, which is supported by MLA Renaissance South West and the National Lottery through Grants for the Arts to enable regional museums to commission new work and join forces with contemporary artists.

Mar 1 to Mar 31 Ceramics by Tim Andrews

acquired for both public and private collections and are exhibited widely across the UK and abroad.

45 Southside Gallery, Southside Street, Barbican Plymouth Tim Andrews has gained an International reputation for his distinctive smoke-fired and raku ceramics. Many works are black and white with linear decoration or burnished with muted coloured slips. His pieces have been

CHECK FIRST We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our listings, but please check all the details first with the organisers of the event to avoid disappointment.

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the plymouth magazine

37

so, why are we afraid of spiders?

What do you think when you turn on the light… and see something small and black scuttle away from you? It could have been a ball of fluff, or a trick of the light, but probably you’ve already brought to mind the word, even a picture, of that most feared of all animals: the spider.

Psychologists at Plymouth University are trying to find out why such small creatures cause such big fear for many of us.

Arachnophobia, or fear of spiders, is one of the most common of all fears. Around a third of British women and one in five men readily admit to feeling some anxiety when they think a spider is nearby, and many more people find them unpleasant or disgusting.

When asked why, even the most spider phobic people find it hard to explain. They are just nasty, aren’t they? Don’t they bite? Aren’t they dirty? And they are venomous, with poisonous fangs? Well, no, none of that is really true.

“While some spiders are venomous, almost all of them can only produce enough poison to paralyse a fly,” points out Professor Jon May from the School of Psychology. “Unlike bees or wasps, which rarely produce the same fear reaction, a spider is very unlikely to use its venom on a human, and if it does, you’ll probably not notice.”

Even in Australia, there are actually only two species of poisonous spiders, and there have been no fatalities from spider bites since 1981. They really aren’t that dangerous, unless you are a fly.

One idea is that we are afraid of spiders because we have evolved that way.

Thousands of years ago, the story goes, it must have been an advantage to be afraid of spiders because they were a threat to our distant ancestors, perhaps when we lived in caves. Early humans who were afraid of spiders avoided them, but those who didn’t got bitten and killed.

This idea doesn’t seem to hold up, because while our species has evolved a lot in the last million or so years, spiders haven’t. They were no more dangerous millions of years ago than they are now, and being afraid to go into a dark but warm cave would have been no advantage to anyone’s ancestor on a cold ice-age night.

The research at Plymouth University suggests that there might be some clues to the origins of spider phobia in the way you responded to the first sentence of this article.

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the plymouth magazine

health matters

BUILDING MATERIALS, TIMBER & DIY

Have You Made Renovating Your Home A New Years Resolution?

Totem Can Make It Easy On You And Your Bank Balance.

News from the Psychology Team at Plymouth University It didn’t mention spiders at all, but anything small, dark and rapidly moving seems to make people think of spiders, and this brings the idea of a spider to mind. The fear reaction may be more to the spider we imagine than to the real spider, even if a real spider is present.

Professor May explained: “Spiders have the misfortune to be darkly coloured, and to have relatively long, angular legs. They move in short, rapid bursts from hiding place to hiding place.”

These characteristics seem to be calculated to first make us notice them, and to dislike them even before we’ve realised what we’ve seen. Our attention is easily drawn to things that move in an otherwise still scene, so we can’t help but look at a spider if it moves.

The psychologists have found that we tend to prefer brightly coloured things to dark things, whatever their shape, and to curvy or rounded shapes rather than angular, pointy ones. So from the very first moment, we find ourselves looking at something we are judging negatively.

Even very young children will look quickly towards a spider – not because they have evolved to look at spiders, but because we look at things that move in the way spiders do. Then when an adult says ‘Yuk, a spider’, the child will learn that the dark, pointy, scuttly thing is bad or nasty. And remember that for the rest of their life.

Is there any hope for spider phobics? Jon May thinks that there is. “Many people acquire a fear of spiders when they are children, but cure themselves when they grow up. Others don’t.

“Those people who do cure themselves often report a single moment when they conquered their fear, and we are studying their experiences to find a common thread. It seems to be due to just realising that the scary thing is their imagination, and not the spider.” f you would like to take part in studies in psychology, please contact the PSYLAB on 01752 584853 or visit www.plymouthpsylab.org. We are also interested in how children develop, so if you have a child aged 0 to six years and you would like to contribute to research, please contact us at the BABYLAB on 01752 584865 or visit www.plymouthbabylab.org.

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www.totemtimber.co.uk the plymouth magazine

39

property matters

homeowners urged: ask the experts and don’t rely on property price comparison websites Property price comparison websites can mislead homeowners when it comes to finding out how much their home is worth.

and the only way to find out what your property is actually worth is to take advice from a reputable estate agent.

Millions of people every year visit sites such as Zoopla and Rightmove to get a valuation – but vendors and buyers are urged to use this information as a guide and not fact.

“There are so many factors affecting the value of a property, including its condition, the location, local amenities, how much similar properties in the same area are selling for and so on. The position and motivation of a buyer or vendor is also an extremely important consideration.”

That’s the advice from Town & Country Estate Agents, one of Plymouth’s leading independent estate agents.

Gareth added: “Most buyers and vendors we meet have looked at price comparison websites and invariably benchmark these to accept or formulate offers.

Director Gareth Forrest said: “It stands to reason that if you bought your home for £200,000 five years ago, it’s probably going to be worth less than that now because of the way prices have dropped in that time.

“It’s all relative because even though your property may not be worth as much it was when you bought it, the same is true of the property which you may want to buy.”

“Price comparison websites work on a broad range of average figures and indexes

Fellow director Richard Rabin said: “Although the property market is not as buoyant as it was five years ago, there are signs of increased activity and a more optimistic outlook for prices in the future.

“However, it is still vitally important that homeowners are realistic about the value of their property. Some properties stay on the market for months or even years because they have been overpriced, whereas realistically priced properties will sell relatively quickly in today’s market.”

He said that Town & Country Estate Agents had enjoyed an extremely busy end to the 2012 and 2013 had started with a flurry of activity.

“December was one of our best months ever and we have seen a similar trend in January this year.”

Although launched less than two years ago, Town & Country Estate Agents has already established a strong reputation for professionalism and customer service, mirroring the profile of its well-established sister company Town & Country Lettings.

Last year the company became an affiliate of the Waterside Properties Network which ensures that waterfront properties in the city are marketed an even wider audience. Town & Country Estate Agents were present at the Southampton Boat Show last year and represented at the London International Boat Show in January this year.

Meanwhile the local residential market in the city remains equally important for the company, which has handled quality properties valued from £80,000 to more than half a million pounds in the last year.

Richard Rabin, who has more than 20 years experience in the local property market, said that they were delighted with the way the new business had developed since its launch in 2011.

“We’re ahead of where we expected to be in terms of the level of properties we are marketing and have already achieved significant success on behalf of our clients,” he said.

Gareth said: “Our aim is to provide honest, professional advice coupled with competitive fees. Above all, we work very hard for our clients to ensure the best possible result.”

One couple who benefited from the professional service provided by Town & Country Estate Agents are Renate and Tony Maceke.

They sold their five-bedroomed property near Callington and successfully completed the purchase of a three-bedroomed penthouse at Azure West in Plymouth – thanks to the team at Town & Country.

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the plymouth magazine

Renate said: “Town & Country literally helped us fulfil our dream. We had decided we wanted to move into Plymouth and fell in love with the property at Azure West which was being marketed by Town & Country.

Gareth Forrest (left) and Richard Rabin of Town & Country Estate Agents

“We asked Gareth to value our property in Cornwall and were surprised and pleased that it was worth more than we anticipated. Even better, we were made an offer at the full asking price within a couple of days.

“However, things got very complicated with the purchase of the Azure property because there was an extremely complex chain involved.”

There followed a nail-biting few weeks during which time Town & Country kept in constant contact with Renate and Tony, as well as the buyers of their five-bedroom home.

“They kept me fully informed all the way through and didn’t mind the fact that I was sometimes ringing them two or three times a week for a progress report. While it felt like the process took forever, we were collecting the keys just over four months after going to market. “ With the penthouse purchase completed, Renate and Tony were able to move into their dream property in October last year.

“I can’t praise Gareth and his assistant Becki Lewis highly enough. They were always helpful and attentive and eventually enabled us to achieve our dream.

“We’re loving life in Plymouth,” she added.

Tony and Renate Maceke pictured at their ‘dream’ property in Azure West, Plymouth

For further information contact Town & Country Estate Agents 52 North Hill, Plymouth Tel 01752 200909 www.tandcestateagents.com

the plymouth magazine

41

property matters Laminate flooring has been around for well over 30 years – but it remains as popular as ever, according to Paul Brimacombe of Plymouth-based PB Laminates.

Paul launched PB Laminates 10 years ago and in the last decade has carried out literally thousands of installations at homes across the city and beyond.

Paul said: “We have hundreds of customers who started off with laminate flooring in a small area – such as a hall – and have subsequently extended it into other areas of their home.

“More and more homeowners now recognise that laminate is suitable for every room in the home,” said Paul, “including bedrooms, bathrooms and even stairs. It’s surprising how many people don’t realise that we can install laminate flooring on stairways.”

Laminate flooring was invented over three decades ago by a Swedish company and since then huge strides in technology have seen the development of virtually indestructable flooring solutions in a vast range of attractive designs.

Laminate flooring is not only tough and durable but also resistant to stains, fading, moisture and abrasion - and easy to clean and maintain.

Homeowners with carpets or vinyl flooring will undoubtedly have had their share of stains and spills that cannot be removed – whatever cleaning process is used.

It’s one of the reasons laminate flooring is an increasingly popular choice for busy family households.

“Many of our customers have children or pets – sometimes both – and they see the benefit of laminate’s easy cleaning and maintenance. It also helps with conditions such as asthma and eczema.”

laminate flooring proving as popular as ever according to leading city specialists installation, but we do all our own fitting and offer very quick turn round,” he added.

PB Laminates have been based at Christian Mill Business Park for the last eight years, moving recently to a new more compact location at 89 Christian Mill Business Park. They are the area’s number one company for the supply and installation of laminate, engineered and solid wood flooring.

As a Quickstep main dealer and installer, PB Laminates is usually able to fit within seven days, sometimes quicker, and guarantee the best prices around on all top brands, with floors to suit all budgets and tastes.

Paul said that one of the advantages of using PB Laminates is that they can work around furniture during an installation, avoiding the need to empty a room of furniture as is invariably the case with carpet fitting.

Paul said: “Every colour and design can be seen by customers at our showroom, ensuring they can choose the right floor and we guarantee we will not be beaten on price or service. We also sell many other makes and a large range of top quality solid and engineered wood flooring.”

“We not only supply, but also install laminate and wood flooring, which sets us apart. There are lots of companies supplying laminate and others offering

PB Laminates has not only built its reputation on price, but also on the quality of its service and installation. “Most of our work comes from word of mouth

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recommendation,” said Paul, “and we pride ourselves on providing accurate and detailed quotations and carrying out the work when we say we will.

“We have never sub-contracted the installation work because we believe our reputation has been built on our professionalism and quality of service,” said Paul.

“We can fit laminate flooring professionally at little more than it would cost a homeowner to purchase the materials and install it themselves.

“We have gone from strength to strength over the last 10 years and the more installations we complete the more recommendations we get,” he added.

Paul Brimacombe of PB Laminates

PB Laminates 89 Christian Mill Business Park, Crownhill, Plymouth, PL6 5DS. Phone 01752 774411.

Website www.pblaminate-flooring.co.uk Showroom opening times: Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm (Thursday 10am to 6pm), Saturday 9am to 1pm.

the plymouth magazine

43

food matters

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the plymouth magazine

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plans for new style ‘studio school’ at home park education matters

A new school specialising in leisure, sport and tourism may be built at Home Park.

Proposals for the new style Studio School have been submitted to the Department for Education by City College Plymouth, in partnership with the Akkeron Group, Plymouth Argyle Football Club and the University College Plymouth St Mark and St John.

Studio Schools are a new concept in education for 14 to 19 year olds, pioneering a bold new approach to learning by teaching through enterprise projects and real work.

They seek to address the growing gap between the skills and knowledge that young people need to succeed and that employers are asking for, and those that the current education system provides.

This innovative approach ensures students’ learning is rooted in the real world by immersing them in real project-based learning and work experience, helping them to develop the transferable skills they need to flourish at work and in life.

The Studio School proposal focuses on the areas of leisure, sport and the visitor economy, which have been identified as a priority employment growth sector for Plymouth and the wider area. As well as work in the leisure and sports sectors, this will naturally cover the associated sectors of catering, hospitality, tourism, customer services and retail.

The proposal is very timely given the city’s redevelopment projects for the Waterfront, Millbay and Home Park and the focus on promoting Plymouth as a visitor destination.

It also complements the city council’s recently launched Plan for Jobs and the changing landscape of education

in Plymouth; with UTC Plymouth opening in Devonport in September and focusing on marine engineering and advanced manufacturing and Plymouth College of Arts plans for a creative free school.

City College Plymouth Principal, Phil Davies, said: “At the heart of this new venture will be the essential link between education and skills, and enterprise, entrepreneurship and employment. It fits absolutely with the work we have been doing at the college to improve and increase the employability skills of our students, in particular with local employers through our Employer Endorsement Scheme.

“The proposal for a Studio School in Plymouth will provide another real educational alternative for young people, giving them more choices, raising their aspirations and ultimately helping to drive the social and economic regeneration of our city.”

The building of the new Studio School at Home Park will bring in the region of £2.5million inward investment to Plymouth, and will create over 20 additional jobs at the school itself.

James Brent, Chairman of both the Akkeron Group and Plymouth Argyle, said: “I am impressed by all that City College Plymouth has done for the youth in Plymouth and the scale of its ambition to do more for more. My colleagues and I are very excited by the prospect of working with the College to jointly develop skills and job opportunities for young people in the City and the wider area.”

Dr Graham Stirling CBE, Chairman of Plymouth Albion Rugby Football Club and Chair of Plymouth Growth Board’s sub-group for employment, said: “I feel the creation of a studio school will further support the growth of Above: An artist’s impression of what the this city and enable young people to see a future career in new Studio School will look like the sporting and tourism industries.”

For more information about Studio Schools visit www.studioschoolstrust.org

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Bathrooms & Kitchens the plymouth magazine

45

new creative arts school will be located in Plymouth’s ground-breaking School of Creative Arts will be located in Millbay.

Plymouth College of Art has announced that, subject to planning permission and final Government funding approval, the brand new school campus will be built next to the Cargo building, just a short walk from the city centre.

The school will contribute an innovative creative educational project of national significance to the wider development of Millbay and the west end of the city, as it will be situated at the heart of the Millbay, Stonehouse and Union Street communities, and is expected to open in its new buildings in September 2014.

The school will open for its first year in September 2013, with Reception and Key Stage 1 pupils in high quality accommodation at the Cargo building, directly opposite the site of the new school.

A total of 150 places will be available for children aged between four and seven in September 2013, based in the temporary accommodation at the Cargo building.

In September 2014 the school will be recruiting into Years 7 and 8 and within five years it is anticipated that the school will be full with over 1000 children aged between four and 16.

“We warmly welcome the partnership and support of Plymouth City Council, the Homes and Communities Agency and English Cities Fund in realising this project, and we are especially delighted that our September 2013 intake of Key Stage 1 pupils will be involved in the making of their school.”

Prof Brewerton added: “It has been demonstrated that by embedding arts education within schools, students improve across the curriculum including core areas such as literacy and numeracy. Cultural learning exposes students to new ways of thinking, innovating and creating. This in turn makes them more capable of adapting to and seeking change thus equipping them with transferable skills for life.

“This new school builds on more than 150 years of experience of Plymouth College of Art providing high quality education within the creative sector through alternative learning methods. It also takes on board successful examples of this model in other areas such as New Orleans, Australia and China.”

Dave Strudwick, the school’s headteacher designate, said: “Starting a brand new school in purpose-built facilities is an amazing opportunity for myself, staff, students and our community. I’m looking forward to bringing this exciting venture to life.”

Plymouth College of Art Principal, Professor Andrew Brewerton commented: “Our vision for Plymouth School of Creative Arts has always been that this is not only a case study in creative educational innovation, but equally a physical and cultural resource for its local community and for Plymouth.

“We look forward with keen anticipation to engaging directly with the aspirations of the Millbay, Stonehouse and Union Street communities.

46

the plymouth magazine

Dave Strudwick Photo: Chris Sutherland

Duncan Cumberland, development director at Muse Developments, one of the partners in English Cities Fund added: “This proposal can really help cement the great progress that has been made at Millbay over the past 18 months, with the continuing residential development, the start of works on the new Kingpoint Marina and the recent announcement that we will be bringing forward earlier than expected the first section of a new boulevard aimed at linking the

education matters

millbay waterfront with the city centre. The school will be at the heart of this mixed use development and bring great commercial and community benefits to Millbay.”

Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Councillor Nicky Williams, said: “This is a time of great change for education in the city, as we see different models of learning emerging that can support our improvements further.

“The Plymouth School of Creative Arts will offer a unique learning experience with a focus on creativity, as well as meeting the urgent need for primary school places in the city.

“This is further proof that our bid for City of Culture is grounded in living, breathing examples of Plymouth’s creative and varied cultural offer.

“Ultimately our aim is to ensure no matter where a child lives in Plymouth, they have a choice of excellent, modern schools providing first class education.”

The innovative new school is a direct response to the local need for increased school places at the primary level, as well as the overwhelming need to deliver education with, and through, the create arts.

For more information visit the school’s website at www.plymouthschoolofcreativearts.co.uk

Above: An artist’s impression of what the new Plymouth School of Creative Arts will look like when it opens in September 2014.

Right: The prominent site alongside the Cargo development where the new school will be built

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adoption matters

urgent need more families to adopt An adoption agency is urgently looking for families or couples in Plymouth who would be willing to adopt vulnerable children from all over the country.

Families for Children Voluntary Adoption Agency have historically placed children who local authorities find ‘harder to place’ such as sibling groups, older children and children with disabilities with new adoptive families.

Katey McDonald, marketing co-ordinator for Families for Children, said: “Recently we have seen a dramatic change, not only in the number of children currently looked after in care, but also the age of children awaiting adoption. As a result we are now being asked to place much younger children.

“We continue to struggle to find adoptive parents across Devon and because of the increase in number of children waiting to be adopted nationally we are crying out for families to come forward.

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“A year and a half ago I turned 15. I felt like I was a waste of space and was having memory flashbacks to being with my birth family.

“I was adopted about seven years ago with my little brother. I’ve got two lazy dogs and a great mum and dad, but I still felt unhappy. I have done everything in the naughty book, lying, stealing and breaking the law.

“My parents wanted to put me back on the rails, but didn’t know what to do.

They rang Families for Children who suggested I see a man called Eric.

“I went to see him looking like a zombie and feeling dead inside. I was scared that mum and dad would tell Eric that they thought I was a waste of space too and that they wanted to give up on me.

“At first I thought he didn’t look like someone who could help me, but he made it easy for me to talk and it was amazing. Mum and dad told him that they loved me so much and didn’t want me to go.

Eric has helped me see the real me and now it’s easier to talk about my emotions. It’s been a difficult year with lots of ups and downs.

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“Talking about my birth parents was the most difficult and being honest with myself. I have learnt, with Eric’s help, that I can stand up to people and make good decisions. As soon as you’re in a room with Eric he makes you feel relaxed and safe and as if you are someone special.

“Now I feel on top of the world. I know that my mum and dad will always be there for me and back me up in tricky situations – and so will Eric and Families for Children.

We can undertake your entire project from conception to completion with assistance from our in-house architect (RIBA) and planning design service.

Our quality workmanship is carried out with efficiency and professionalism.

“I feel glad that we are with Families for Children because they support children like me who have had a horrible start to life. I know that they will always be there to support me.”

For further information please contact us on

This account was written by a child placed for adoption by Families for Children. Eric is part of a dedicated and committed team of social workers offering ‘forever support’ for the families and children they place together.

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the plymouth magazine

Deciding to adopt is a huge step for anyone but adopting through Families for Children will ensure peace of mind knowing that adoptive parents will have support for life - making that journey just a little easier.

Families for Children offer a range of post adoption services like Eric’s, from counselling and therapy to training as well as a local support network of other adoptive parents.

for willing more families are urgently needed to adopt vulnerable children of all ages

“We are sure that many people who have considered adoption may have some ideas in their heads about why they are not able to adopt which stops them coming forward and we are keen to dispel all the myths that surround adoption.�

Families for Children are also keen to let people know that they do have a choice when considering adoption with both the local authority and Families for Children operating locally.

While the adoption process is broadly similar in both organisations, Families for Children have an excellent post adoption support team that can support and advise the family and child for the rest of their lives if needs be.

Families for Children are currently setting up some information events throughout

Devon, to help raise awareness and offer advice to anyone who is considering adoption.

Families for Children is currently looking for adoptive parents in Plymouth and are holding an an information event in the city centre in March.

It will be held on Wednesday March 13 in Room 202, Level 2, Rolle Building, University of Plymouth between 5pm and 7pm.

Anyone interested in finding out more about adoption is welcome to go along and talk with the team at Families for Children or call 01364 645480.

More information is also available at www.iwanttoadopt.co.uk

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49

council-led task force aims 2,000 jobs in Over 2,000 jobs over the next two years - that’s the aim of Plymouth’s Plan for Jobs.

A total of 19 projects will aim to create several thousand jobs as part of an innovative plan that brings together actions and commitments from city organisations to pump energy, motivation and substantial funding into the local economy to stimulate growth and jobs.

A report outlining the projects in the Plan for Jobs and its overall aim was discussed at a Cabinet meeting in January, and already there have been significant developments for some projects, with GAIN the Growth, Acceleration and Investment Network announcing its new portal at www.gaininbusiness.com to support business growth.

A task force involving key organisations including the council and the university as well as Plymouth Community Homes and private businesses have been working since last July to put together the plan which aims to: • Create jobs for local people by unlocking or speeding up major development projects, including housing • Help the city’s unemployed gain skills and experience to help them get work as well as retain talented graduates • Proactively sell the city, its businesses, its products and its people • Unlock access to finance and provide support to enable jobs growth • Use the council’s assets, influence and buying power to increase jobs by using local supply chains and local goods Council leader Tudor Evans where possible.

GAIN is also credited with helping Plymouth University to win £3.9 million of Regional Growth Funding to support small and medium sized businesses across the region. The fund went live in January.

The city’s 1,000 Club, set up to offer work opportunities for young people, has already helped create 160 placements.

Council leader Tudor Evans said: “This, more than anything else we do, shows we are a cooperative council, how we work with our partners across the city to do all we can for our community.

“Is it daunting? Yes it is, but this is no fantasy list and these are targets which we have every confidence will create muchneeded work in Plymouth.

“Anyone who has been unemployed or has someone in their family who is out of work knows the impact it can have on every aspect of a person’s life and those around them. Confidence goes out the window, their health and mental wellbeing suffers, they have no money.

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plymouth matters

to create two years “We could sit back and blame the economic conditions, which would be true. We could confidently say that this is the Government’s fault, but that does nothing to help Plymouth and its people.

be substantial and it will show real commitment from the council to getting Plymouth back to work.”

“This will be a quick burst of intense activity and is an exceptional demonstration of public and private sector working together for the good of the community.”

The plan is in addition to the city’s existing Local Economic Strategy and focuses on what can be achieved within a relatively short period of time.

It has been developed following the council leader’s ‘call to arms’ to address unemployment by creating new jobs. A number of the projects are council-led, including working to unlock land and major projects, paving the way for construction jobs as well as more long-term work opportunities.

As a major employer, purchaser of products and services and community leader, the council will be working more to ensure it buys more locally.

It will also shortly unveil plans to strengthen its economic development function so that the council can increase efforts to attract inward investors as well as visitors to the city.

In November 2012 there were 6,100 claimants – 3.5 per cent of the city’s working age population. The number of long-term unemployed – those claiming for benefits over a year has more than doubled since mid-2012 and the number of young people aged between18 and 24 years old claiming is now 33 per cent compared to 28 per cent nationally.

Clive Turner, chief executive of Plymouth Community Homes, who is also on the task force said: “Most people are aware of the huge regeneration of North Prospect, but through this plan, council-owned sites will be brought forward for homes to be built on.

“These are sites which would not have come forward for development otherwise.

Not only will this create new homes, but new jobs, new apprentices and also create new long-term construction skills which are vital for the city’s future.”

And in the next month the council will announce a multi- million pound capital investment fund that will help fund key projects and support the city’s wider economic ambitions.

The Plan For Jobs is a significant combined effort to tackle unemployment and is both wide-ranging and innovative in approach, from the creation of a new Apprenticeship Training Agency and 1,000 Club, which will together provide over 400 new apprenticeships in the city, to financial support and premises for hundreds of fledgling businesses through the Urban Enterprise, Outset Finance and the Plymouth University and Western Morning News Growth Fund.

Councillor Mark Lowry added: “We are currently finalising the detail of this, but it will

For more information on the 1,000 Club visit www.1000club.co.uk

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51

try planting a valentine Is it me or is time flying by? I can’t believe it’s February already!

you every time the plant blooms.

I don’t seem to have enough hours in the day at the moment gearing up for the season and dare I say it buying Christmas stock for next year!

Let’s start with the traditional, roses.

Roses have long been the symbol of love, especially red roses. Giving someone a dozen cut roses will last a week or so in a vase, but a rose bush planted in a pot or out in the garden will last a Rose One and Only life time. There are plenty of aptly named roses for many occasions, but I have choosen a selection of the strongest growers.

Myself and a colleague have taken over the buying from my mum who is concentrating on her passion – gifts and cards: big shoes to step into. Pressure!

I have been super busy with trade shows, department planning, event planning for our 50th year celebrations, taking on new staff (which is fantastic and positive in this economic climate), coffee shop extension planning (frustrating), training and all the while trying to recharge my batteries a bit after Christmas.

by

Fiona Newton and Derek Anderson of Plymouth

I think I need some sun! Don’t we all though.

Garden Centre We are keeping our fingers crossed for at least dry if not sunny weather. Gardening won’t even get started until waterlogged soil has dried out and been improved – with all the rain all the nutrients will have been washed out of the soil. You could, of course, start a lot of things off in pots. Nice new fresh soil!

Keen gardeners will have already started with seed potatoes and early seeds.

I am not particularly a romantic but I thought it would be nice to think about ‘Plants with Love’ and set Derek the task of finding suitable plants for planting this month with Valentines in mind if you wanted to think about it!

The first I’d suggest is Rose ‘The One and Only’, a wonderful new modern rose with good disease resistance, but all the charm and character of an old fashioned English rose. It is a fully double hybrid tea rose with crimson-red flowers that have the texture of velvet. It is a repeat flowerer which has a strong fragrance to it. It grows to 90cm (3’) in height and spread and is quite happy in a large pot or the garden.

Derek writes: With St Valentine’s Day fast approaching, why not try something new – I have been looking around for appropriate plants that can be given with love as a ‘living gift’ to be enjoyed for years.

The benefit of planting a gift for someone special is that they will be reminded of

Rose Moment in Time

The second rose I’d suggest is Rose ‘Moment in Time.’ It’s a floribunda rose with beautiful bright scarlet coloured, medium sized, lightly scented flowers. It is repeat flowering and grows to 60cm (2’) in height and spread. It has dark green, glossy leaves, good disease resistance and won Rose of the Year 2012. Does well in a large pot on the patio or in the garden.

Next up is the hybrid Tea Rose ‘Deep Secret.’ It has virtually black buds that produce the darkest of all red roses. The large, nearly perfect blooms finish deep crimson having an outstanding fragrance and repeat flowering. The flowers are set off by dark glossy green disease resistant foliage. The flowers make excellent cut flowers. It grows to approximately 1.2-1.5m (4-5’) in height and 60-90cm (2-3’) in spread.

Breaking away from the norm of red roses, I have choosen a few aptly named roses in other colours that I feel are equally appropriate. The first is Rose ‘You’re Beautiful,’ an outstanding floribunda rose, growing to a height and spread of 1m (3’). It is repeat flowering with beautiful pink coloured, medium sized, lightly scented flowers. It has dark green, glossy leaves, good disease resistance and won Rose of the Year 2013. It is ideally suited to the garden or a large pot.

The next suggestion is Rose ‘Valentine Heart,’ a repeat flowering floribunda with unusual, frilly-petalled flowers of creamy pink touched with lilac, with a hint of scarlet at the base of the petals. It is sweetly scented and perfectly at home in the garden or a large pot. It has a height and spread of approximatley 0.9-1.2m (3-4’).

‘Truly Loved’ is a floribunda rose with tight packed, double petals in deep pink. It is a free flowering compact rose with lightly scented flowers. It has good disease resistance. ‘Truly Loved’ is perfectly suited to a large pot on the patio due to its compact habit. It grows to a height and spread of 60cm (2’).

Grow all of these roses in full sun to light shade in a rich moisture retentive fertile soil that does not become water logged. If growing in a pot use John Innes No 3 Compost and slow release fertiliser for the best performance.

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the plymouth magazine

If roses are not suitable, or a bit too cliche, or you are after something in flower now, then a Camellia would make a fantastic alternative. It is a shrub with spectacular rose like flowers and there is nothing else at this time of year that can compete with it.

gardening matters

gift for your loved one Grow them in a bed, border or pot in ericaceous compost and feed them with an ericaceous feed every few months, they will need very little looking after. Preferably place them in a shady spot for them to thrive, but they will cope quite happily with full sun if kept moist.

versatile. It can be grown in the border, in a pot, used as formal hedging or for effective and atractive gound cover. It grows to a height of 60cm (2’) with a spread of 1m (3’3). For a larger hedge or back of the border shrub, Sarcococca Confusa can be used which grows to a height of 1.8m (6’) with a spread of 1.8m (6’) while retaining the same excellent qualtities of Sarcococca Hookeriana.

A few good varieties to look out for are Midnight, Black Lace and Rose Deep Secret Anticipation. These all have exquisite red double or semi-double flowers that smother the plant. Another good variety to look out for is Desire, it has large, perfectly formed double flowers with pink edges, fading to softer pink with a white centre.

Camellias can vary in size from 2.4m (8’) to 5m (15’) depending on the culitivor, so always make sure you check the labels. They can however be kept to a suitable size with pruning.

Camellia Black Lace

position in moist, ericaceous soil. It is a compact plant growing to a height and spread of 90cm (3’) and is ideally suited to pots or borders. It is spectactular when in full flower.

A somewhat smaller acid loving plant, yet equally stunning is the dwarf Rhododendron Scarlet Wonder. It has beautiful tubular shaped flowers in clusters of bright scarlet that smoother the plant in spring. It likes to grow in a shady

Orchids always make beautifully stunning indoor gifts.

The exotic bloom can be in flower for many weeks in an array of colors, textures, and shapes. They make a bold statement and are the perfect gift to impress a loved one. The large exotic flowers are robust and easier to look after than most people think.

Sarcococca Confusa A great houseplant as a gift is the Flamingo flowers (Anthuriums). These are beautiful all year round with their glossy heart-shaped leaves, but it is the showy flowers that they are really grown for with same heart shape. The flowers are fleshy and rigid typically being bright red, they are unsual and distinctive. Besides being beautiful, flamingo flowers are excellent at removing indoor air pollution, especially ammonia and other cleaning vapors. Place them on kitchen or bathroom windowsills to get the most air-purifying benefits.

So don’t forget to visit the garden centre for lots of inspiration this year. We have decided on our coach trips this year too. If anyone is interested in a long day trip to Chelsea or Gardener’s World Live we will run a coach if we get sufficient numbers: so get in touch and let us know. Please see our advertisement in this month’s magazine with a reader offer to get you started in the garden!

Happy Gardening, Fiona & Derek

For a small token gift, try Tulip Heart’s Delight. It is a real eye-catcher with its mottled foliage and a flower color combination of red, rose and golden yellow. It is a dwarf tulip only growing to 15-20 cm (6-8), so is ideal to fill a small pot or bowl for an instant splash of colour. Grow them in a free draining compost in full Tulip Heart’s Delight sun for the best results.

For a gift that packs a punch with scent, Daphne Odora ‘aureomarginata’ is the plant to choose. It flowers in winter when not much else is, the pink flowers are borne on clusters and have an extremely strong sweet perfume. The flowers also make great cut flowers with one or two sprigs filling an entire room with perfume. The evergreen foliage is dark green in colour with a gold rim running around the edge. It is a slow growing shrub only growing to a height and spread of 1.5m (5’). It can be grown in sun or shade and likes a free draining soil that doesn’t completely dry out. It is best to plant it somewhere near a path so the fragrance can be enjoyed as you brush past it.

Another sweetly scented shrub is Sarcococca. It has evergreen, glossy foliage and small white flowers that grow between the leaves all along the stem. Its sweet scent fills the air and wafts throughout the garden. It is extremely easy to grow and Plymouth Garden Centre in Fort Austin Avenue, Crownhill is open from 9am to 5.30pm weekdays and 10.30am to 4.30pm Sundays Tel: 01752 771820. www.plymouthgardencentre. co.uk the plymouth magazine

53

WIN

TICKETS TO THE ST LUKES CHARITY CRUISE TO ROSCOFF

Cruise, dine and donate with Brittany Ferries from £99 per person On 2 January 1973 Brittany Ferries’ first crossing left Roscoff bound for Plymouth.

The ship, Kerisnel, named after a small Breton village famous for its cauliflowers, was a small, very basic freighter and appropriately enough carried a cargo of cauliflowers and artichokes. From this simple operation 40 years ago we have developed into the major ferry company we are today with a fleet of nine ships sailing five routes linking the UK to France and three to Spain. These routes include regular sailings from Plymouth to Roscoff in Brittany and the weekly service to Santander in northern Spain.

afternoon cruise back to Plymouth.

As part of our anniversary celebrations we are pleased to be supporting St Luke’s Hospice by offering an exclusive opportunity for you to be involved in a charity cruise to Roscoff, departing from Plymouth on 21 March 2013.

• Welcome drink plus 4 course dinner including half bottle of wine

The cruise will include a welcome reception, 4 course dinner and performance by the Plymouth Mayflower Chrous on the outward sailing prior to retiring to your comfortable cabin. The following morning there will be time for you to explore Roscoff prior to the return

Prices start from just £99 per person and places are limited on what we believe will be a very special evening supporting an excellent cause.

The cruise will include: • Overnight cruise from Plymouth to Roscoff onboard our flagship, PontAven • En-suite cabin accommodation on outward sailing

• Time to explore Roscoff before return sailing onboard Armorique • Price includes a £20 per person donation to St Luke’s Hospice To find out more visit brittanyferries.com/plymouthmag or call 0871 244 0194 (calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras)

Question:

What was the name of Brittany Ferries’ first ship?

Prize:

Tickets for two couples to attend the charity cruise departing on 21st March.

Entries due by 28th Feb and winners will be contacted in the first week of March.

Entry Coupon Please send your completed entry coupon to Brittany Ferries competition, the plymouth magazine, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth PL3 4PY by the closing date of 28th February 2013. The winners will be contacted in the first week of March. No cash alternative available. Please put your answer below.

Q. What was the name of Brittany Ferries’ first ship?

A. Name: Address: Tel:

Please tick this box if you wish to receive marketing information from Brittany Ferries

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