Plymouth Magazine January 2018 by Cornerstone Vision

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

plymouth magazine the

ISSUE 163 JANUARY 2018

Get fit and have fun at Marjon’s new gym

New executive chef at Plymouth’s Crowne Plaza What’s On guide Everyone welcome at historic Hoe yacht club

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Jude

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they both came back with their designs and they’d basically built the kitchen around the Rangemaster. The lay-out of the kitchen was more or less the same. “Then Nathan from KF Kitchens came in and put me right straight away! He said ‘that’s got to go’. Trust me, you can’t have that cooker there. You’ve got to be facing your garden and your guests’. So with Nathan it wasn’t a case of just coming in and measuring up. He was very passionate about his work and you could tell that he loves his job. “It was his ideas and enthusiasm that

sold the kitchen, really. His ideas were so different to ours, but he was right and we were wrong. He was inspirational. “They did the whole works themselves, not just the fitting, but the flooring, the plastering, the plumbing, the decorating and the electrics. Once you have a price that’s it, there are no nasty shocks with bits being added on along the way. “They also organised the Silestone worktops from Mayflower Stone. Everything went like clockwork. It was a three-week job and there were no gaps. And our kitchen fitter, Gary, was absolutely brilliant.” The work was carried out in the Spring. A few months on, are they still happy with their new kitchen? “Oh yes, we love it,” said Jude. “You can see how light the room is now. And it’s dead easy to keep tidy because we now have so much more storage space. It’s going to make cooking at Christmas a whole lot easier, too. “It’s just a beautiful room and we’re so pleased that we’ve done it. And that we listened to Nathan’s advice! We would certainly recommend KF Kitchens to other people.”

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Full of good intentions... As we head into another New Year, I’m sure there will be many of us who will be resolving to make some important lifestyle changes after all the excesses of the festive season. So often, those New Year resolutions are based on the best of intentions, but somehow the pressures and challenges of life conspire to make it difficult to keep up the promises we made to ourselves. That’s why it’s good to hear from someone who knows all about keeping fit and healthy. We have an interview with Simon White, manager of the Marjon Sport & Health Centre in which he comes up with some valuable advice on anyone who wants to get in better shape in the year ahead. Basically it’s all about setting yourself relaistic goals to ensure that you keep up the good work. You can read Simon’s article on pages 12 and 13. Another good way to get into better shape is to think about taking part in one of Plymouth’s increasingly popular running events - the half marathon and 10k races. We’ve news on how to enter for the half-marathon in May in our What’s On pages, which as usual are packed with details of a host of events in the coming weeks. Elsewhere, we meet the team behind GoCarer, a new company based in Plymouth which is providing specialist services for families affected by autism. There are literally hundreds of families on the waiting list for an autism diagnosis in Plymouth and GoCarer has been established to help them as they come to terms with the challenges they face. We also meet Sam Williams-Wright, the new executive chef at the Crowne Plaza (formerly the Holiday Inn) who has a fascinating background in catering and hospitality. Hope you enjoy the latest issue and I wish you good health, peace and prosperity in 2018. Publishers: Chris Girdler and Ian Pilkington Editor: Debbie Girdler Designer: Naomi Girdler Photography: Roy Perring and Laura Joint Contributors: Derek Anderson, Laura Joint and Anthony Goord Advertising sales: Karen Pilkington, Dave Simpson, Nathanael Logan, Jessica Bennett, Ali Alexander and Jim MacGregor Artwork: Sarah Simpson Finance: Karen Pilkington and Kim Strachan Front cover: Getting in shape at the new gym at the Marjon Sport and Health Centre. Photo: Laura Joint Contacts: Editorial Tel: 01752 225623 e-mail: chris@cornerstonevision.com Advertising Tel: 01752 225623 e-mail: karen@cornerstonevision.com

The views expressed in the plymouth magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of all information contained in this magazine. However, the publishers do not accept any liability for any advice or information included in the magazine. The Plymouth Magazine is distributed free to 45,000 homes across Plymouth each month, with a further 2,000 copies strategically placed in leisure and retail outlets in Plymouth, Saltash and other locations.

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

@PlymMag

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

Creating fair ﬁnancial settlements on divorce Jonathan Madge from The Family

Sharing Order. This is an order which

Law Company in Plymouth looks at

is now well embedded in the process

options for pension sharing for Silver

of enabling separating couples

Separators.

reaching a settlement.

I am often reminded with a wry

Basically, what it means is that a

smile by friends and acquaintances

portion of the pension of the party

at this time of year that I am

with greater pension provision is

approaching my busiest time at

handed to the other party and

work. The ﬁrst working Monday after

added to their pension provision to

New Year is called Black Monday

bring about fairness of income in

by many newspapers; they claim

retirement. The closer the parties

that it is the busiest day of the year

are to retirement (or if they are

for people making new enquiries to

already retired) and the longer the

family lawyers. And it is true that many

marriage, the more likely it is that the

people make their ﬁrst contact with

settlement will provide for incomes

The Family Law Company to discuss

to be equal or close to equal, or for

separation or divorce at this time.

the party with smaller income to have

Current divorce rates

a correspondingly larger share of

The general belief is that divorce

‘offset’ the pension income disparity.

rates go up and up with each passing

capital to generate the income to

Indeed income is not looked at in year. However, ﬁgures from the Ofﬁce of isolation and all capital, property, National Statistics earlier this year reveal and entitlements as well as pensions quite a different picture. Divorce rates overall are, in fact, decreasing. One

are brought to the negotiating table

to achieve a fair settlement across age bracket where rates are increasing, income, pensions and capital. however, is the over 50s. This is being Of course, other factors may called the rise of the ‘Silver Splitters’ or come into play and every case is ‘Silver Separators’. different. Your family lawyer will be Fortunately, as the retirement able to advise where moving away incomes for many in this bracket

are still signiﬁcant, and so long as a relatively equal apportionment of the retirement income is achieved, neither party will face the poverty on divorce as was once the case.

Pension Sharing Orders A key tool which is used as part of the ﬁnancial settlement is the Pension

Jonathan Madge

the negotiations of separating couples who are trying to reach an agreement using Mediation or Collaborative Law, two commonly used alternative dispute resolution methods. Using these approaches often means that full court proceedings are not necessary, avoiding the increased costs and stress which can result. If Mediation or Collaborative Law are used initially but do not lead to a full resolution, an experienced family lawyer can use any common ground that has been reached and hold digniﬁed and reasonable negotiations to conclude fair settlements. Relationship breakdown is never welcome or wished for, but it is important to know that, once there is no future together, The Family Law

from a roughly equal division or even

Company can help the separation

a solution avoiding the need for a

process be as digniﬁed and

Pension Sharing Order at all would be

ﬁnancially fair as possible enabling

regarded as fair.

each party to have as positive a

Alternatives to court Knowing that a Pension Sharing Order is commonly used to achieve a fair ﬁnancial division often guides

ﬁnancial future as is viable. If you are considering separating or have already separated and need advice, please contact us on 01752 674999.

CONTENTS JANUARY 2018 EDITION

SAM’S IN CHARGE

Sam Williams-Wright is the newly appointed executive chef at Plymouth’s Crowne Plaza. We hear about her plans for the future.

KEEPING IN SHAPE

Simon White, manager at the Marjon Sport & Health Centre, talks about the new gym and has some helpful tips on how to keep fit in 2018.

WHAT’S ON

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

www.cornerstonevision.com

@PlymMag

MEET GOCARER

We meet the team behind a new Plymouth venture called GoCarer, which is helping families in the city who are affected by autism.

TREAT ON THE HOE

Emma Jones of the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club reminds readers that the club is open to everyone for drinks, meals and special occasions.

BREATHTAKING BRAZIL

Travel expert Anthony Goord reflects on his first-ever trip to South America and the fabulous sights, sounds and highlights of Brazil.

The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

WOMEN AT WORK

Chef Samâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recipe for success Plymouth's Crowne Plaza has a new executive chef and she is no stranger to the city or the challenges of a demanding job. Samantha Williams-Wright has done everything from training prison inmates to cooking for billionaires - and now she has some great ideas to tempt the Crowne Plaza's guests and visitors. The talented chef, who grew up in Plymouth, said: "It is so wonderful to have been offered such a position in the place I call home. With its recent refurbishment, the hotel is looking fabulous and has a great atmosphere, but I still have a few ideas I'd like to try out to keep the menu fresh and interesting. "It is important that guests and visitors come to the hotel and not only receive great service in lovely surroundings but have a few pleasant surprises too." Sam, who is 47, studied at the former Plymouth College of Further Education and by the age of 18 was holding down the head chef's role at a leading Cornish restaurant. She oversees a kitchen brigade of more than 20 staff and has plans to introduce new menus in Drakes, the hotel's open plan ground floor restaurant and bar, in addition to creating new banquet and wedding menus which will complete the recently refurbished event space at the hotel. Sam spent five years as head chef at Plymouth Pavilions, which meant she was effectively the city's head chef as well, organising civic functions and cooking for a host of celebrities. She later moved to the Channel Islands working for 20 years for the States of Jersey Prison Service as well as running her own catering company providing private fine dining and functions to numerous clients including multi billionaires. No stranger to mass catering, she frequently organised large civic banquets and functions for dignitaries including Prime Minister John Major, Dame Shirley Bassey and Sir Tom Jones.

The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

Alongside this she has also provided catering and troubleshooting services for pubs, restaurants and businesses throughout the South West; worked as a food lecturer at Stafford College, where she trained budding chefs to degree level and spent time in Dartmoor Prison - working as head chef. The new Crowne Plaza on Armada Way opened in May after being re-branded from Holiday Inn and following the opening of a Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill on the top floor. With its function rooms now fully refurbished, the hotel transformation is finally complete and, with Sam's appointment, general manager Kevin Byrnes now has his team in place and a fully functioning hotel to run. "2017 has been a busy year for us here. Over the last nine months we have fully refurbished the hotel and opened Marco Pierre White's popular Steakhouse Bar & Grill - which has just won 'Best Newcomer' in the Marco Pierre White national restaurant awards," said Kevin. "We've done all this whilst maintaining, and growing, the high standard of hospitality and service that the hotel is known for, and hope Plymouth will be as proud of our achievement as we are." "Plymouth is a unique, great and vibrant city and we are delighted to be a part of it. The hotel, with its restaurants, gym and pool, is here for Plymouth people to enjoy as much as for visitors to the city. With the appointment of Sam, and the continuing support of the terrific team already in place, we look forward to some exciting times ahead." Sam played for Redruth ladies rugby team for two seasons and still holds the record as the strongest woman in Plymouth after she pulled three double decker busses along The Hoe. She added: I've done some amazing things so far in my career but this really is a dream job for me. The Crowne Plaza is more than just a hotel, it's a great place to meet up, relax, have a few drinks and enjoy the freshly prepared food, atmosphere and amazing views."

HEALTH MATTERS

Parents’ story inspires a new support service for families affected by autism Anzel and Cindy’s son was two years old when they noticed he was exhibiting some challenging behaviours. Their son would often become really upset for no visible reason and they were concerned that elements of his development, such as communication, weren’t progressing as they should. He would also display fixed and repetitive behaviours and had rigid routines he liked to stick to. They suspected their son might be on the autistic spectrum and sought help. It was through this experience that they discovered there was no easily accessible holistic support service for people with autism, and help for parents struggling to cope was limited. Cindy made a tough decision to give up her full-time job to care for their son, who was almost four when he was formally diagnosed with autism. Meanwhile, Anzel moved his job from Plymouth to London to secure a higher pay and better financial support for his family. The lack of accessible, joined-up services proved a frustrating experience that was shared by many other parents Anzel and Cindy spoke to across Plymouth. Fortunately, they received support from a family friend who is a qualified occupational therapist, who advised them to act swiftly before the challenges built up. They were supported to implement personalised interventions and strategies through combining their son’s school development plan with advice from the Plymouth Communication Interaction Team (CIT). “Because we have always been proactive in following the advice set out by multi-disciplinary professionals, our son is showing distinct improvements in development. He is now verbal and comfortable around strangers and new places,” said Anzel. “The time spent at that early age to address communicational delays and social challenges is critical to help kids learn to survive and thrive.” But many families are missing this critical opportunity to introduce early interventions which can

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

increase long-term chances of improvement. Anzel’s experience has led to him working on a solution to help other families facing similar difficulties. He formed a company called GoCarer with a close friend and London ex-colleague Kingma, who shared the same vision for helping families and making a real positive impact to the community. Together, they spent months researching the difficulties faced by different families affected by autism in getting the right support, through speaking with parents, autism researchers and healthcare professionals. This research led to the pair leaving their London jobs and launching GoCarer in early 2017. Since then, Anzel and Kingma have built a team of nine at their office in Plymouth Science Park. The GoCarer team come from diverse backgrounds and have all had extensive experience developing young people on the autism spectrum including a speech and language therapist, an occupational therapist, a specialist carer, two therapeutic assistants and an autism specialist, Michelle Whiting, who herself is mother to an autistic son and worked as a school SENCO for 23 years. Nationally, there are around 700,000 people on the autism spectrum in the UK. When you include their families, autism affects daily life for 2.8 million people. 85% of adults diagnosed with autism are not in full-time employment and 25% are unable to communicate effectively. In Plymouth, there are more than 300 families currently on the waiting list for an autism diagnosis but, says Anzel: “We think the real number could be much higher because many people are still waiting to be referred or not knowing how to access support.” The services offered by GoCarer are intended to bridge the gaps. They offer personalised action plans through multi-disciplinary input with a focus on developing engagement, interaction, language and communication which can benefit children even before a formal diagnosis is made.

HEALTH MATTERS These action plans are part of the interventions and strategies that are crucial to leading to improvements in core areas for children on the autism spectrum. As well as these personal services, GoCarer is forging partnerships to provide outreach with local schools and community centres. GoCarer believes strongly in empowering parents to better understand their child’s strengths and challenges and deliver fun and accessible therapy within everyday interactions with their child at home. The team run regular community coffee mornings and seminars, to provide practical therapeutic advice and parent support. Each staff member has Enhanced DBS and the therapists are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and their governing bodies. Speech and Language Therapist Cara Porter has moved from a specialist autism school in Dawlish to join GoCarer. “Some children with complex needs may take time to make significant progress. “However, because we are integrated into the home and school with a focus on holistic care, progress can be generalised across environments more effectively. It can be life-changing for parents at home, getting the input that they need.” Occupational Therapist Lauren Flook has switched from the acute setting of an Emergency Department at an NHS hospital. Before that, she was a dance and theatre practitioner for eight years, working with children and young people with disabilities, including autism. Lauren is involved in assessment and intervention, which involves a collaborative approach with those involved in a child’s development: “We might identify challenges in various areas of functioning, such as handwriting, washing, dressing

and play. This will then inform the direction of the therapy, which is an ongoing intervention in regular onehour sessions.” The screening consultation takes 60-90 minutes and is free for parents living in Plymouth. During the consultation, informed advice and practical strategies are given by the team to address the immediate needs of parents. This is followed up by an evaluation session, where observations and needs are identified by the GoCarer therapists to create an individualised action plan. The action plan sets tangible goals for the child, depending on their preferences and developmental stage, such as learning to instigate a conversation, to write, or learn speech. GoCarer services also support tracking progress and monitoring targets and goals for each child. They regularly produce reports which are easy-read for parents and carers to keep everyone involved and informed. Anzel said: “The journey with any child on the autism spectrum can be a long one, so it’s about setting the right baby steps, but then building on these steps. Each tangible result increases their independence and ability to perform everyday tasks.” Each follow up evaluation session and therapeutic care session is £35 per hour and can be done in the home setting. Visit www.gocarer.com for more information.

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GoCarer Phase 1, Plymouth Science Park, 1 Davy Road Derriford, Plymouth PL6 8BX 01752 875668 info@gocarer.com www.gocarer.com

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

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FITNESS MATTERS Marjon Sport & Health Centre manager, Simon White

Get fit and have fun at Marjon Sport & Health Centre’s newly-kitted out gym Need some inspiration to kick start your New Year health and fitness programme? Then Marjon Sport & Health Centre is just the place for you! The sports centre has put the fun into fitness, with £100,000 of new equipment at its gym – including brand new features designed to add variety to programmes. Marjon Sport & Health Centre, based at Plymouth Marjon University, is unique in offering world class facilities for professional sportsmen and women and to members of the public. The gym has nearly 100 stations, catering for both performance training and everyday fitness for those wanting to improve their wellbeing. As well as replacing all the weight resistance equipment including buying all new dumbbells, the centre has introduced a functional fitness track where people can mix up their training with sled pulls, battlerope and tyre flips. Marjon Sport & Health Centre manager, Simon White, said: “Having variety in your programme is important to success, so people should freshen things up and do different things. That’s why we’ve brought in this new equipment. “The functional fitness track is an excellent cardio workout, so it burns a lot of fat. It’s also fun to do with friends, which is another good way of helping to start an exercise programme.” The new equipment is proving a winner with members of all ages: “And that

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

includes an 86-year-old lady who comes here in the morning to do tyre-flipping!” said Simon. The tyres are of three different weights so are suitable for all abilities, while weights can be added or reduced on the sled pull. The new range also includes, for the first time, Wattbikes, which replicate the experience of a road bike, and waterresisted hand bikes and rowing machines, both great for cardio health. Simon’s three top tips for a new you To help people develop a training programme that has ‘legs’ to last, Simon has come up with three top tips to make sure they do things right. The key words are sustainability, consistency and mindset, as Simon explained: “To have any chance of long-term success, you need to have realistic goals for yourself. “Sustainability is all about setting small targets to begin with. A maximum of three gym visits a week is fine at this stage. If you overdo it at the start, it won’t be sustainable. The same applies to other lifestyle changes, such as diet. If you cut out everything you like and only eat things you dislike, this is not sustainable, and you will fall off the wagon. The answer is to learn how diet works so that you can enjoy good food and get results, too. “By consistency, we mean sticking to your programme – and that’s much more likely if it’s sustainable. Once you start to see the results and the progress you’re making, you’ll see that consistency makes sense and is worth it.

FITNESS MATTERS “The third top tip is to keep a positive mindset. Positive thinking and having self-belief are essential. You can achieve anything, with the right guidance, support and knowledge. And keep reminding yourself why you’re doing this.” Some people can be intimidated at the thought of joining a gym, but Marjon Sport & Health Centre has a friendly, welcoming vibe, with a large team of staff on hand to help, and members making friends and training together. New members are shown how to use the equipment and they get a 1-hour personal fitness programme tailored for them. There’s also the option of having a personal trainer to help focus on goals. As well as the gym, the centre also has a 25-metre indoor heated swimming pool and multiple-use sports halls for most sports. The pool has sessions for over-60s, femaleonly, adults-only and for people with disabilities. Swimming lessons are available. There are also adult and children’s sports clubs for those looking to join a team in their favourite sport. Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) is available for those who prefer to pay on usage, but with gym & swim membership just £31 a month with no joining fee or contract, most people choose the membership option. PAYG gym sessions are £5.20; swim sessions are £4.10 for adults, £3.10 for over-60s and disabled, and £3 for children. Other benefits at the centre are a café and a car park, where the £3 parking charge is refunded to sports centre users. Marjon Sport & Health Centre is open seven days a week – visit the website for the latest opening hours. The website also has information on all memberships and single sessions and on how to book courts and pitches. Or pop in for a chat and a ‘no pressure’ look at the facilities.

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Marjon Sport & Health Centre Derriford Road, Plymouth PL6 8BH 01752 636876 www.marjon.ac.uk/marjon-sport

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

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FOOD MATTERS

Everyone is welcome at historic Hoe yacht club Perched on the water’s edge on the Hoe and boasting panoramic views of the Sound, the historic Royal Plymouth Corinthian Yacht Club has it all. And, what’s more, it’s open to everyone, seven days a week! Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, evening dinner or just a coffee or a glass of wine, there surely can’t be a better place to sit and watch the boats go by – and the sunny terrace is perfect for watching the sun go down. The RPCYC is well-known as a venue for special occasions such as parties, weddings and corporate events, but many local people aren’t aware they can pop in any time of the day to take in those views and enjoy some great local produce. When we visited RPCYC, it was a grey December day, but not even that could hide the wow factor. “Just look at that view – you could never tire of seeing it,” said events manager Emma Jones, who gets to see it every working day! On this particular day, there was a function taking place in the Drake Room and ‘walk-ins’ were enjoying brunch in

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

the Armada Room looking out to the Breakwater and in the Hawkins Room, which has views to Drake’s Island and the Hoe waterfront. The menu has everything from a breakfast bap, the full English, croissants, sandwiches and jacket potatoes, to burgers, seafood, salads and fabulous fish and chips. There is also a children’s menu. The meat, fish and vegetables are all sourced locally. A selection of freshly-made cakes is always available, and you can tuck into a Devonshire cream tea any time between 12 noon and 5pm. Emma said: “We’ve not been a members’ only club for about eight years now and we’re not what most people would regard as a typical yacht club. We’re very much a part of the community and we welcome everyone. People always comment on how friendly the place is.” The current yacht club was built in the 1890s, but the origins of this site go back to the 1600s. With the walls of the Citadel looming large above the club, it comes as no surprise to learn that the site was initially developed as part of the

FOOD MATTERS

city’s defences. Legend has it that there are blocked-up tunnels underneath the current building that used to allow secret access to and from within the Citadel’s walls. Today, the Royal Plymouth Corinthian Yacht Club continues to play a role in the city’s major events, such as the Solo Fastnet Yacht Race, which it is co-hosting in June 2018; Plymouth Seafood Festival; and the annual British Firework Championships, where the judges view the displays from RPCYC and announce the winners. “You can understand why the judges watch Events manager, Emma Jones the fireworks from our vantage point,” said Emma. “Those two evenings are great fun and we have a ticketed barbeque down on the boat park which we use for special events. People have to book their tickets very early because people travel from literally all over the country to be here for that.” For private events, the venue can cater for up to 200 people and there is a 1am licence for functions. Emma said: “We can hold several functions at the same time because we have so many spaces of varying sizes. Or people can book the entire venue so they have the place to themselves.” The club hosts civil weddings and is a popular venue for wedding receptions. Thanks to the votes of their happy couples, the club is in the running as the top coastal venue in the South West Wedding Awards to be announced on 19 January. The Corinthian is planning a number of events and themes throughout 2018, starting in January with a Game of Thrones afternoon tea. A Harry Potter-themed afternoon tea is also planned later in the year, to mark the coming of age of JK Rowling’s wizard. The 2018 calendar is packed with sailing events, too. On each Thursday evening during the summer season, many of the 200 sailing club members take part in the weekly races which the public are also encouraged to come and watch: “We do a ‘Sailing Supper’ for £6.50 and it’s lovely to watch all the boats out in the Sound, especially if you’re sipping one of our cocktails on the terrace,” said Emma. RPCYC opening times are 10am to 5pm in the winter, seven days a week, and 9am to 9pm during the spring and summer months, apart from booked functions. Visit the Facebook page and website for up-to-date information on menus and events.

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Royal Plymouth Corinthian Yacht Club Madeira Road, The Hoe, Plymouth, PL1 2NY 01752 664327 www.rpcyc.com www.facebook.com/RPCYC

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

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WHAT’S ON show that will have you smiling for days - let you hair down! THE LYRIC Royal Parade Plymouth Box Office 01752 267222 www.theatreroyal.com

Jan 23 - 27 SON OF A PREACHER MAN Welcome to the Preacher Man, the swinging 60s Soho joint where the kids danced the night away to the latest crazes and dared to dream of love, while the legendary owner, The Preacher Man himself, dispensed advice to cure the loneliest of hearts. The Preacher Man is long gone, but his son, with help from the wonderful Cappuccino Sisters, might just find it in himself to channel the spirit of The Preacher Man and once more give these three lovesick strangers the look of love.

Until Jan 13 PETER PAN 2017 Take a fairy tale flight to Neverland this Christmas in the swashbuckling family adventure Peter Pan. Join the high-flying hero as he transports the Darlings on an adventure they will never forget. With amazing flying effects, barrels of laughter, magic and fairy dust, join Peter and the lost boys and set sail in the ultimate pirate pantomime adventure complete with all the ingredients audiences know to expect in this swashbuckling festive treat.

Jan 30 - Feb 3 MATTHEW BOURNE’S CINDERELLA Matthew Bourne’s interpretation of the classic fairy tale, has, at its heart, a true war-time romance. A chance meeting results in a magical night for Cinderella and her dashing young RAF pilot, together just long enough to fall in love before being parted by the horrors of the Blitz. Matthew Bourne’s vivid story telling has never been more heart-stopping and touching, and will take the audience into the heart of Prokofiev’s magnificent score, and

Jan 15 - 20 HAIRSPRAY It’s Baltimore, 1962 where Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, is on a mission to follow her dreams and dance her way onto national TV. Tracy’s audition makes her a local star and soon she is using her new-found fame to fight for equality, bagging local heartthrob Link Larkin along the way! Don’t miss this irresistible feel-good

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

Art - one of the most successful comedies ever – is performed at the Theatre Royal from February 26 to March 3

the sights and sounds of war-torn London. Feb 6 - 10 HAMLET A student is called home from university to find his life turned upside down. He had the world at his feet, but now everything has changed. Who can be trusted, who can be believed? Sent by the ghost of his father to avenge his brutal death, Hamlet’s mission to expose the truth is a perilous journey of madness, murder and lost love. What will ultimately become of a young man sent to kill? Feb 13 - 17 THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST The Importance of Being Earnest by the master of comedy Oscar Wilde, makes a welcome visit to Plymouth society in this wonderfully witty, deliciously decadent, classic revival. Feb 20 - 24 THE LITTLE MATCHGIRL (AND OTHER HAPPIER TALES) As our destitute heroine struggles to survive, she strikes her matches to keep warm. Each match will conjure a new story, a new vision, and we will hold her hand as we tumble down the rabbit hole together. Inspired by the beautiful and devastatingly sad Hans Christian Andersen tale, The Little Match Girl and combining Andersen’s other tales, The Princess and the Pea,

The Emperor’s New Clothes and Thumbelina, The Little Matchgirl (and Other Happier Tales) reveals a spellbinding world of magic and mystery. The Little Matchgirl

Feb 26 - Mar 3 ART Three men. Three friends. One white painting. Art is one of the most successful comedies ever, winner of Olivier, Tony, Moliere and every other major world theatre award. You’ll roar with laughter at this modern masterpiece. Mar 4 STEWART LEE: CONTENT PROVIDER After four years of writing and performing his TV show Stewart Lee’s Comedy Vehicle, Content Provider is Stewart’s first brand new full-length show since the award winning Carpet Remnant

Mar 9 BRIAN CONLEY STRICTLY COME LAUGHING The multi-talented and irrepressible Brian Conley returns to the stage with his brand new show Strictly Come Laughing. Featuring brand new comedy, sketches and songs alongside some of his bestknown material from stage and screen. Hurry along and book to see why Brian Conley remains one of this country’s most loved entertainers.

Drum Theatre ROYAL PARADE PLYMOUTH Box Office 01752 267222

World. Characteristically twisty, frequently brilliant, venomously funny, don’t miss what the Mail on Sunday calls the delusional ravings of a man who has lost his way in the world.

www.cornerstonevision.com

Until Jan 13 THE ENORMOUS TURNIP Living in their tiny shed squeezed in amongst the garden tools, Mr and Mrs Chickweed’s amazing prizewinning vegetables have taken over everything! Before they retire, they can’t resist planting one more seed, try for one more champion vegetable and one more trophy! A family show ideal for two to eight year olds.

@CornerstoneVis

Theatres & Shows

Me and My Bee is at the Drum Theatre in February

Jan 25 - Feb 10 NAPOLEON DISROBED A comic alternative history by Told by an idiot, based on the novel The Death of Napoleon by Simon Leys. One of the UK’s most unique theatre companies creates this poignantly moving and wryly humorous re-imagining of the final years of Napoleon Bonaparte. Using their trademark comic physicality Told by an Idiot discover the absurdity of trying to retrieve time and glory. An irreverent and hugely playful show exploring what it is to lose immense power but gain personal freedom; to transition from one identity to another, and to lose public face. Artistic director Paul Hunter takes the part of Napoleon

Feb 13 - 17 ME AND MY BEE Climate change is massive. Bees aren’t. Our fuzzy little friends need help and so here comes the launch of a political party disguised as a celebratory party disguised as a show. Multi award-winning theatre company, ThisEgg, invites you to save the world - one bee at a time. A new comedy for children and adults alike. Plant the seed for change, join the Bee Party. Before it’s too late. Feb 22 - Mar 10 CLOCKWORK CANARIES It is an ill-omened day when Tatiana Dressler pulls a drowning cat from the surging waters of the River Schwartz. Tatiana’s father, a

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WHAT’S ON struggling inventor, has designs on the unfortunate feline, naming the cat Count Federick Sebastian and setting to work on an ingenious contraption to humanise the creature. The cat is of a murderous disposition, developing a taste for a neighbour’s prized canaries - but canary slaughter is not the only suspicious activity being investigated at the Dressler residence.

Castle Street, Plymouth BOX OFFICE: 01752 267131 www.barbicantheatre.co.uk Until Jan 7 A CHRISTMAS CAROL Charles, Charles and Charles Dickens cordially invites you to Plymouth’s Athenaeum Theatre for a hilarious re-telling of the greatest Christmas ghost story ever told. The inimitable Le Navet Bete are back for their seventh Christmas in Plymouth with their hilarious and unique take on the classic Christmas Carol with co production by Barbican Theatre. It’s Christmas Eve in Victorian London. The fog creeps through every keyhole. The flickering candlelight dances around the walls of the houses and a Not So Tiny Tim shivers around an even tinier fire. Meanwhile the miserable Ebenezer Scrooge is getting ready for bed when he hears a clank of chains; a sound that resounds throughout the house like thunder. It’s going to be a long night… Jan 20 AHIR SHAH

the Edinburgh Fringe, the Soho Theatre and a national tour. In it, he theorised that we were being tugged into contradictory directions by a potential brighter future and resurgent worst of the past. He’s currently trying to work out how to build that future in a time when the past appears to be winning. He’s got loads of jokes about it.

CASTLE STREET, PLYMOUTH 01752 242021 www.b-bar.co.uk Jan 3 and Feb COMEDY NIGHT Monthly collection of some of the best stand-ups on the circuit. Jan 4 FELLOW HEARTS Plymouth duo featuring American singer/songwriter Erin Osborne and British guitarist/songwriter Matt George. Their unique style is a modern mixture of classic genres of music; a fusion of roots, folk, blues, and jazz.

Jan 6 and 20, Feb 10 and 24 FREE CUBA PARTY Join resident Cuba DJ Misael for the best in salsa, merengue, bachata, son and more.

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Saxophonist Jade Gall is appearing at the B-Bar on February 16

Feb 9 SAM BAKER Sam Baker’s music and story have been shared by some of the most prestigious media outlets in the world - NPR’s Fresh Air with Terry Gross, Rolling Stone Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and numerous others. He is a true artist in every way, sharing amazing life experiences through music, story, and art.

Jan 5 JOHNNY MAC & CO Take one singer songwriter, throw in some jazz sax, a touch of folk mandolin, and tie it all together with a rock steady beat, and you’ll get Johnny Mac and Co.

In an age of global socio-political turmoil, Shah presents a show about freedom, fascism, history, hope, resistance and milk. Ahir’s last show enjoyed packed runs at

Jan 10, 24, Feb 14, 28 CAFÉ ACOUSTICA A superb songwriter in his own right, Jessie Mullen gathers together some of the best local talent and offers them a chance to perform their original material. Jan 11 HARBOTTLE & JONAS Harbottle & Jonas are a stunning

The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

young folk duo from Totnes. Their music is eclectic and is always accompanied with a great story. Jan 12 DLM West Country acoustic trio. Jan 13 LOST IN SPACE Seven piece band with a madcap mix of funky ska, retro grooves and gypsy stomp, from full brass to hot strings. Jan 17 BESS HOWARD-BAKER Plymouth’s Bess Howard-Baker is a singer-songwriter with an original, soulful voice that is wide ranging and expressive. Professional and experienced her voice never fails to win people over. Jan 18 PETER JAMES MILLSON Dorset based singer-songwriter. Jan 19 JAMIE YOST BAND The left handed guitarist seamlessly weaves soulful, dreamy vocals with intricate and standout guitar riffs, all tied together with emotional, heartfelt lyrics.

Jan 25 PUCKER POETS The first ever Pucker Poets to be hosted at the B-Bar! Welcome local poet Alexander Rhodes as he brings his popular night of slam poetry and emerging talent to your favourite Thai noodle bar. Jan 26 GOZER GOODSPEED & DAVEY DODDS Two superb singer-songwriters. Jan 27 THE BUSKETEERS Formed on the streets of Plymouth, the Busketeers are four artists in their own right: Luke Engel, Matt Price, Olly Parker and Andy George. Jan 28 WINDJAMMER EP LAUNCH Hosted in the Barbican Theatre, folk band Windjammer present the launch of their brand new EP with the help of some very special guests. Jan 31 ALICE GULLICK Alice’s music is an ageless blend of folky acoustic roots with a tinge of Americana.

Theatres & Shows

Feb 1 NICK TUDGEY Nick Tudgey is a young solo guitarist whose music is Described as ‘live finger style guitar and entertainment full of passion and energy.’ Feb 2 SWINGOLOGY Swingology will be performing as a quartet of two guitars, double bass and clarinet. Feb 3 THE KINGSTONS An exciting five piece contemporary band based in West Devon with a fresh, unique sound incorporating an eclectic blend of influences with a passion for ska and reggae. Feb 8 BECCA LANGSFORD & ALEX HART Becca Langsford is a young vocalist with the rare ability to sing the blues with total conviction! She displays a deep maturity as a singer. Alex Hart is a 23 year old female singersongwriter from Ashill, Devon. She released her first album ‘On This Day’ in 2014 and has just finished her UK Tour with her band.

Feb 9 ENSEMBLE BAKLAVA With a unique combination of instruments, Ensemble Baklava blends the sounds of the oud, bouzouki, concertina, bagpipes, Middle Eastern percussion, mandolin, baglama, spiked fiddle, guitar, tin whistle and voices to bring evocative, stirring and lively music and song from the Mediterranean region, both contemporary and ancient. Feb 15 ROB C Rob C is a Plymouth based singersongwriter-multi-instrumentalist and producer. Feb 16 JADE GALL QUARTET Jazz and classical saxophonist, Jade regularly performs on the South West scene and across the country, performing as a guest artist or with her Quartet. Feb 17 MATTHEW GORDON PRICE BAND Alternative folk musician who provides an emotional narrative which many can relate to. His sound has been compared to artists such as Glenn Hansard, Damien Rice, Marcus Mumford and Paolo Nutini.

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WHAT’S ON Theatres & Shows

Britain’s biggest comedian Michael McIntyre has an extended stay at the Plymouth Pavilions in March

Feb 21 OLLY PARKER BAND An artist inspired by soul, blues and folk music that effortlessly blends them together in his originals style. Performing with full band. Feb 22 JESS VINCENT Jess’s trademark subtle arrangements on guitar, baritone uke and harmonium, along with her uniquely soaring vocals have established her reputation as a highly original artist with a growing following. Feb 23 FROZEN HOUSES Described as “sublime” by Charlie Ashcroft of Amazing Radio, Cornish based singer songwriter Frozen Houses is living up to the hype. His carefully crafted indie folk pop songs have pricked the ears of those at BBC 6 Music (Tom Robinson BBC Introducing) Mar 31 IAIN STIRLING U OK HUN? X Iain Stirling is back after a summer narrating smash hit Love Island (ITV2) and now you can see his actual face on his brand new tour! After selling out his entire Edinburgh Fringe run out in advance and adding shows due to extra public demand, the BAFTA winning comedian now hits the road to perform his acclaimed, hot ticket show around the UK.

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MILLBAY ROAD, PLYMOUTH Box Office: 0845 146 1460 Jan 27 KATHERINE RYAN What does Canada’s first woman to have a worldwide Netflix special have in common with Britain’s first woman to have a worldwide Netflix special? They are both single mothers with too many pets. And they are both Katherine Ryan. As seen on BBC’s QI and Have I Got News For You, as well as Conan O’Brien, Lip Sync Battle and Instagram, Katherine Ryan brings her brand new stand up show, Glitter Room, to the UK. Feb 2 ED BYRNE: SPOILER ALERT Is life that bad or have we good reason to complain about it? Are we filled with righteous anger at a world gone wrong or are we all just a bunch of whiny little brats? In short, are we spoiled? Come and watch as Byrne takes this question, turns it upside down and shakes it until the funny falls out. Go on, spoil yourself. Feb 16 JOEL DOMMETT: LIVE Joel Dommett: Live is the comedian’s biggest tour to date,

The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

with sell out shows across the UK. Join I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! 2016 runner up Joel for another show of engaging storytelling and stand up in which Joel serves up unbelievable stories (that he promises are true!), confetti cannons and even a musical number! Feb 20 PAUL WELLER 2017 marks the 40th anniversary of Paul Weller’s first album, In The City, which he released with The Jam in May 1977. For most artists such a landmark would be greeted with extensive retrospective celebrations: lavish reissues and all that jazz. But Paul Weller is not like most artists, instead releasing a new studio album, because releasing new albums is what Paul Weller does. Always moving forward, almost clinically averse to nostalgia or checking his progress in the rear view mirror. Feb 23 - 24 BILL BAILEY: LARKS IN TRANSIT Larks in Transit is a compendium of travellers’ tales and the general shenanigans of 20 years as a travelling comedian. With musical virtuosity, surreal tangents and trademark intelligence, Bill Bailey tackles politics, philosophy and the pursuit of happiness. Plus, he fashions a

symphony from a ringtone, tells the story of Old McDonald and a reimagining of the Stars and Stripes. Mar 1-4 and Mar 8-11 MICHAEL MCINTYRE Britain’s biggest comedian Michael McIntyre is set to return to the stage with his eagerly awaited new tour and this time he is going global! Michael McIntyre’s Big World Tour will see Michael perform to arenas across the UK and Ireland in 2018 as well as revisiting Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa and Norway and heading to America, Canada, Switzerland, Iceland, Sweden, Malta and the Netherlands for the first time. In the UK, Michael has sold over 1.5 million tickets, including a record-breaking 28 performances at London’s 20,000 capacity 02 Arena where he was awarded the keys to venue in 2015, alongside musical talents Prince, Take That and One Direction. Around the world, Michael has previously sold out arenas in New Zealand, Australia and Dubai and he holds the record for the biggest selling comedy shows in South Africa and Norway.

WHAT’S ON

Get into shape in 2018 – take on the half marathon! Keep your New Year’s Resolution by taking on a half marathon - that’s the advice from Run Plymouth, organisers of Britain’s Ocean City Half Marathon. Having a long-term target for your New Year’s resolution is the key for success is their message. The most common New Year’s resolution is to lose weight (48%), closely followed by improving fitness (41%) and diet (31%). Each year Britons spend an estimated £37 million in wasted gym memberships, because with no clear long-term target, motivation can be difficult to sustain. Eventually, this leading to another missed New Year’s resolution. Setting a clear date such as the Britain’s Ocean City Half Marathon on May 20 at Plymouth Hoe, provides the focus and extra motivation needed to complete ambitious New Year’s resolutions. The opportunity to raise money for a local or national charity, can add further incentive to stick to a New Year’s resolution. Over £400,000 was raised in 2017 from Plymouth’s closed-road running events. Britain’s Ocean City Half Marathon registration for 2018 is already open. The Start/Finish line will return to Plymouth Hoe along with the Wessex RFCA Corporate and Services Challenge and Charity Mascot Race. With thousands expected to run and thousands more spectating, it will be an event to showcase the best of Plymouth. More information about the Britain’s Ocean City Half Marathon, including registration, can be found on the website at www.runplymouth.co.uk About Run Plymouth: Home of the Plymouth 10k and Britain’s Ocean City Half Marathon closed road running events. These races proceed across some of the most scenic parts of the City and is attended by over 7000 runners across both events, supported by local businesses such as Plymouth CityBus.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

Major Events

Book your dream wedding here Spring | Summer weddings – what a beautiful setting… The Orangery and gardens are simply stunning in the spring and summertime. Live music on the lawn, homemade scones being served, whilst the hog is turning. The sun is beaming and the Champagne and Pimms are flowing. It doesn’t get better than this.

Autumn | Winter weddings – the magical feel of the darker evenings… There’s nothing like being by the coast on a crisp winter day with all your loved ones and friends. Wintertime in this historic venue is the most romantic and picturesque setting of all.

Three course wedding breakfast

Candelabras glowing, heating roaring, and guests toasting mulled wine under the moonlight.

Relaxed dining

Perfect.

Formal dining

Out door hog roast, barbeques and buffets in full English tradition.

www.theorangerymountedgcumbe.co.uk The Orangery, Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, Cornwall, PL10 1HZ Tel: 01752 822 586 www.cornerstonevision.com

@PlymMag

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WHAT’S ON

Music

Music Jan 7 PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill The Pete Canter Quartet. Swing, mainstream and latin jazz from a talented Devon band. Details 01752 774343 or visit www. plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk Jan 18 PLYMOUTH AREA POLICE CHOIR Crownhill Methodist Church Concert in aid of Church funds. Tickets £5 from Maureen Blatchford 01752 292118 or on the door.

Top clarinetist Julian Stringle is appearing at the Plymouth Jazz Club with the Craig Milverton Trio on February 4

Jan 21 PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill Adrian Cox’s ‘Profoundly Blue’. A celebration of the music of Edmond Hall, the highly influential American bandleader over four decades from 1920. Details 01752 774343 or visit www.plymouthjazz-club.org.uk

Jan 21 and Feb 25 CARLTON BIG BAND Duke of Cornwall Hotel Tickets £9 on the door, £8 in advance from the Duke of Cornwall Hotel. Tel 01752 275850

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Feb 10 PLYMOUTH PHOENIX CHORALE St Peter’s Church, Wyndham Square Musical Director: Marcus Alleyne. Brahms workshop. All singers welcome. Price and details tbc. Feb 18 PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill The Eagle Jazz Band. Classic traditional jazz from this ever popular Midlands based band led by Matt Palmer. Details 01752 721179 or visit www.plymouthjazz-club.org.uk

www.dclvehiclehire.co.uk 01752 874798

Unit 2b East Way • Lee Mill Industrial Estate • Ivybridge • PL21 9GE

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Feb 4 PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill Julian Stringle - clarinet, with The Craig Milverton Trio. Virtuoso clarinetist with one of the UK’s finest jazz trios in a programme of popular 20th century tunes. Details 01752 721179 or visit www. plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk

AIL L ITH T

VAN W N O T RN LU

Feb 3 THE DIVERTIMENTO STRING QUARTET Sherwell United Church, North Hill Playing Boccherini: String Quartet Op 33 in Gmin, Kodaly: String Quartet no 2, Op 10, Verdi: Ave Maria from Othello, Tchaikovsky: String Quartet No 1 in D, Op 11. Tickets £15 or £13 in advance from Divertimento 01803 863677. Under 18s free.

The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

Feb 23 BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Plymouth Guildhall Conducted by Christoph Kønig

with Leonard Elschenbroich on cello. Playing Wagner: Siegfried Idyll, Elgar: Cello Concerto, Dvorak: Symphony No. 9 ‘From the New World.’ Tickets £20/£16 from Theatre Royal Plymouth. Mar 2 WEMBURY CONCERT Jason Camilleri and Paul Thomas - trumpets and Dr Sean Sweeney - organ. Music by Vivaldi, Franceschini, Manfredini, Clive Jenkins, Paul Drayton. Tickets £10 from Pamela Pinder 01752 863304, Carol Steel 01752 862602 or Clive Jenkins 01752 863348. In aid of Plymouth Music Accord. Mar 2 PLYMOUTH AREA POLICE CHOIR Gulworthy Parish Church, nr Tavistock Mar 4 PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill Kevin Grenfell’s ‘Zoot Suit Ch’Boogie Band. A joyful celebration of the swing to jive & rock’n’roll era.Details 01752 721179 or visit www.plymouth-jazz-club. org.uk Mar 10 UNIVERSITY OF PLYMOUTH CHORAL SOCIETY St Andrew’s Minster, Plymouth Musical director Alice Dennis. A concert of Italian music including Rossini’s Petite Messa Solonelle. We do our best to ensure our listings are accurate, but it is advisable to check with organisers first to avoid disappointment. Further details can be found at www.plyclassical.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

Major Events Various dates LEAGUE ONE FOOTBALL Jan 1 Argyle v Walsall Jan 6 Argyle v Bury Jan 20 Argyle v Wigan Feb 3 Argyle v Blackburn Feb 13 Argyle v Wimbledon Feb 24 Argyle v Bradford NATIONAL LEAGUE RUGBY Jan 6 Albion v Bishop’s Stortf’d Jan 20 Albion v Loughborough Feb 3 Albion v Caldy Feb 17 Albion v Darlington Mar 3 Albion v Rosslyn Park BRITISH BASKETBALL LEAGUE Jan 7 Raiders v Cheshire Jan 21 Raiders v Glasgow Feb 4 Raiders v Sheffield Feb 11 Raiders v Glasgow Feb 25 Raiders v Bristol Until Jan 3 NUTCRACKER TRAIL Plymouth City Centre The popular Nutcracker trail has returned to the city. Santa has

been busy touring Plymouth on his mission to get lots of toys for all the boys and girls this Christmas. On his travels he’s left behind 20 Nutcrackers who have been told to find out what presents children are asking for. Find them all for your chance to win one of the great prizes available.

Major Events

Plymouth’s links with Titanic in the spotlight

Until Jan 7 SNOWFLAKE TRAIL The Waterfront Snowflake trail has returned following its success last year. This is a great activity for families to enjoy a walk across Plymouth’s stunning waterfront, whilst following the trail map to locate the snowflakes. Find any ten snowflake names from the trail map, and you could win a Playstation 4 or one of the other fantastic prices on offer. Jan 27 BURNS NIGHT 2018 Langdon Court Hotel, Down Thomas Celebrate the life of the Scottish Bard, Robert Burns. The itinerary for the evening includes a real ‘earthy’ Burns’ dinner which will follow with a traditional Cock-A-Leekie soup, Haggis, Neeps and Tatties and Cranachan. Booking essential.

Plymouth’s links with the ill-fated maiden voyage of the Titanic will be the focus of a special exhibition in January. The Titanic and White Star Line Exhibition takes place at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel between January 27 and January 31. The exhibition will showcase a fascinating collection of artefacts and memorabilia relating to RMS Titanic and White Star Line, the shipping company that created her. Items on display will include White Star dishes and cutlery and original drawings and documents. The latest exhibition will be bigger and better than similar previous events, with lots more interactive material and, for the first time ever, items from the Titanic which have only recently been acquired. There will also be the opportunity to dress up in the clothing of the era, so that visitors to the exhibition can get into character. The city’s links to the Titanic are mainly centred around the fact that surviving crew members were brought back to Plymouth in April 28 - two weeks after the disaster. Large crowds gathered at Plymouth on the morning of April 28, as the Red Star liner Lapland dropped anchor in Cawsand Bay. The crowds were there to see the first sight of Titanic’s surviving crew members. The tender Sir Richard Grenville steamed out to Lapland to take off Titanic’s surviving crew. Among the officials waiting on their arrival were two directors of the White Star Line and several representatives from the Board of Trade. While male crew members were quartered on makeshift bunks in the dock’s waiting room, 20 stewardesses fared much better, being booked into the Duke of Cornwall Hotel.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

Exhibitions and Other Events

Celebrating city’s civil engineering excellence From Jan 8 LIGHTHOUSES, BREAKWATERS AND BRIDGES Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6.30pm. Sherwell Centre, University of Plymouth, Sherwell Lane, Plymouth. Free admission. The Institution of Civil Engineering (ICE) celebrates its 200th anniversary throughout 2018. Civil engineers have been shaping our towns and cities for centuries – developing transport systems and designing iconic structures; protecting the old and creating the new. Plymouth Museum Services are working in partnership with ICE South West and the University of Plymouth to mark this important bicentenary. A graphic exhibition celebrates some of the city’s best examples of civil engineering by Rendel, Brunel, Smeaton and more. Learn about the new research that is currently taking place to help shape our world in the future. Until Dec 21 2018 PLYMOUTH - FROM DESTRUCTION TO CONSTRUCTION Council House, Armada Way Plymouth suffered greatly during World War II. The docks and naval base made it a target resulting in the almost total destruction of the city centre and the displacement of tens of thousands of Plymothians. The city we see today epitomises the ambition and vision of post war planning. This exhibition includes fascinating objects, images and footage from the collection of Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, the Plymouth and West Devon Record Office and the South West Film and Television Archive that explores the themes of destruction and reconstruction. Until Jan 1 2018 FINDING PREHISTORY AT DARTMOOR NATIONAL PARK Plymouth City Museum and Gallery: On Tour, National Park Visitor Centre, Princetown Explore the Dartmoor treasures from Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery’s collections in this small exhibition which shines a light on the lives of the people who lived on Dartmoor thousands of years ago. Highlights include some Bronze Age ceramic urns, used both as household items and also for burying the cremated remains of the dead. You can also see stone tools such as the magnificent axe-hammer from Crocken Tor, and the flint implement from the Whitehorse Hill collection. Until Jan 20 MATERIALS OF RESISTANCE: CLARE THORNTON EXHIBITION Plymouth Arts Centre New exhibition with interdisciplinary artists and educator Clare Thornton who explores her longstanding interest in folding and falling. Previously, she worked with these ideas using her own body in performances, but in this, they find new means of expression through ceramics and print. She has produced a sculptural installation comprising of works that adorn Plymouth Arts Centre’s interiors, employing coiled, extruded clay and draped, printed pieces. The exhibition explores time and pressure upon materials teetering on the edge of collapse. www.cornerstonevision.com

@CornerstoneVis

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WHAT’S ON Jan 13 WILD ABOUT PLYMOUTH: NATURAL HISTORY SCIENTISTS Davy Building, Plymouth Unversity Go along and be a scientist for a couple of hours. Discover more about the major different groups of animals from the weird and tiny pseudoscorpions to what makes a platypus a platypus! This is an interactive quiz with some amazing creatures for you to have a look up close to! Meet outside the orange doors of the Davy Building, these are located behind the copper building directly opposite the Museum and Art Gallery building. £3 per person, booking is essential - only limited tickets remaining! Jan 27 TEN MINUTE TALL STORIES Smeaton’s Tower, Hoe Road, Plymouth 10am to 10.45am; 11am to 11.45am; 12pm to 12.45pm; 1pm to 1.45pm. Wrap up in your winter woollies and celebrate National Storytelling Week with us. Climb up the 93 steps of the iconic Smeaton’s Tower and hear a tale about lighthouses, told by a professional storyteller. £4 per person/ Booking essential / Tickets from Eventbrite.

Feb 14 BREAK // WATER STEM Hub, City College Plymouth, Kings Road, Plymouth Plymouth Breakwater can be seen from almost any point on the Hoe but do you know why it’s important to Plymouth? Come and discover the secrets of this amazing landmark in our interactive workshop. Free / Booking essential / Tickets from Eventbrite Feb 15 WILD ABOUT PLYMOUTH: AQUARIUM EVOLVING National Marine Aquarium Go along to the fantastic National Marine Aquarium for a fun, interactive, hands-on half-term morning. You will be looking at the marine life around you and how they have evolved to live in this underwater world. There will be lots of craft activities and a fun science show where you can be the scientists! The ticket to the event will also enable you to look around the aquarium afterwards. This event is suitable for children aged 4 and upwards. Meet at the front of the aquarium. £6.50 per person, under 3s go free. Booking essential.

For details of events organised by Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery go to www.plymhearts.org. For tickets go to www. plymhearts.eventbrite.co.uk

The

Afternoon Show

Brighten up your way home

Feb 16 FAMILY HARD HAT TOUR The Box Construction Site (Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery) Join staff from The Box and Willmott Dixon for a special hard hat tour of the construction site just for families. Discover how the building contractors are transforming the space and what objects will be going into The Box when it opens in 2020. Meet outside the Muster Point, outside Caffeine Club, five minutes before the tour starts. This event is recommended for children 8+. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants must be able to walk up flights of stairs and stand for short periods of time. Free, however booking is essential. Saltram House Plympton 01752 333500 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/saltram Until Dec 30 ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS Brighten up dark winter nights with a stroll around the enchanted illuminated gardens and see the house magically decorated throughout with inspiration taken from some well-known fairy tales. This event is free, but normal admission charges apply.

Mon-Fri 3pm-5pm

TUNE IN on 96.3FM

or listen online at www.xrhyth.ms/crplymouth

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

Buckland Abbey Yelverton 01822 853607 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bucklandabbey Dec 27 - Jan 1 POST-CHRISTMAS HOUSE TOURS Take a peak inside the Abbey by

joining one of the volunteers for a tour of Drake’s former home. To allow for conservation work to take place, the only way to see inside the Abbey between Christmas and New Year is by joining a volunteer led guided tour. Places limited, but booking not needed. This event is free, but normal admission charges apply. Jan 7 WASSAIL WITH DARTMOOR BORDER MORRIS Grab your bells, bring along your pots and pans and join the team at Buckland Abbey for their annual Wassail. Dartmoor Border Morris will be joining in to ensure you make as much noise as possible to help awaken the trees from their winter sleep and to wish them a bountiful new year. Bring along whistles, bells, pots and pans - along as its noisy, feel free to bring it along. Booking not needed. This event is free, but normal admission charges apply. Cotehele Calstock 01579 351346 www. nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele Until Jan 6 2018

DISPLAYING THE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS FLOWER GARLAND The garland is complete, the log fire is burning - join in and admire this 100 foot masterpiece until January 2018 and enjoy a variety of local choirs and groups performing under it. The gardeners grow and dry the flowers on the estate. Booking essential for choirs. This event is free but normal admission

Family Events

Family Rave: first for Plymouth!

In a first for Plymouth, the award-winning ‘Big Fish Little Fish’ will be bringing one of their ‘Family Raves’ to the city in the New Year. Tickets are now on sale for the event on Saturday February 17 which is being staged as part of the ‘Museum On Tour’ programme – a series of exhibitions, events and projects that are taking place across Plymouth while the Museum and Art Gallery’s building is closed for the development of The Box. The event will run from 2pm to 4.30pm in the Main Hall of the University of Plymouth’s Student Union and promises to be great fun for all ages. “We’ll have a dance floor full of bubbles, glitter cannons, huge balloons and a brilliant atmosphere,” said Mark Tosdevin, programmes manager for Plymouth Museums Galleries Archives. “One of the projects we’re running while we’re closed is called ‘Plymouth After Dark’ which looks at activities that take place across the city at night. Plymouth had a really vibrant rave scene at one point and ‘Big Fish Little Fish’ have a great deal of experience in translating the freedom and excitement of this into events that can be enjoyed by the whole family.” At the event a soundtrack of club tunes will be provided by DJ Slipmatt who, as one half of the duo SL2, had a huge hit in 1992 with ‘On A Ragga Tip.’ Other activities will include a giant colouring mural, a play dough table and crafting tables. The littlest ravers will also be able to play on mats with tents, tunnels and a ball pool or relax in a chill out area. Dressing up is also encouraged and the theme for the event is ‘Neon and Glitter’ – think all things that glow! Tickets for the Family Rave on Saturday February 17 are priced at £7.50 per person (non-walkers go free). They can be booked via www.motbigfish.eventbrite.co.uk

charges apply for the venue. Assistance dogs welcome.

not needed. This event is free, but normal admission charges apply.

Until Jan 6 2018 ALL THAT GLITTERS IN COTEHELE GALLERY This winter exhibition is a coming together of regular and new artists to celebrate the festive period with shine and sparkle to illuminate the imagination. This event is free but normal admission charges apply for the venue. Assistance dogs are welcome. Jan 10 - 11 Apple Tree Pruning Workshops Join the team in the orchard for an introduction to apple tree pruning with Cotehele’s gardeners. Part theory, part practical. Tools provided, but wrap up warm. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing including waterproof footwear.

Feb 12 - 14 HALF TERM FUN AT COTEHELE: BUSHCRAFT FOR KIDS Build a shelter, light a controlled fire and learn survival skills in the wild. This activity is run by Cotehele’s partner Jack at Serious Outdoor Skills. Suitable for children aged 7 - 14. £6 per person, booking essential.

Feb 10 - June 4 A NEW DAWN IN COTEHELE GALLERY An exhibition featuring Paul Jackson, one of Britain’s leading ceramicists is coming to Cotehele Gallery. The exhibition will feature a new range of his work called ‘Madrugada‚‘. Cotehele Gallery is dedicated to exhibiting and selling the work of West Country artists and craft makers. Booking www.cornerstonevision.com

Feb 17 - 18 APPLE GRAFTING WEEKEND AT COTEHELE Come along for a weekend of apple grafting workshops. You’ll be shown how to graft your own apple tree. There will be more than 25 local apple varieties to choose from, all of which specific to the Tamar Valley, most of which will never be commercially viable so this is a rare opportunity to have these uncommon varieties in your own garden. As well as that, you’ll be keeping the gene pool alive, and conserving the varieties for generations to come. No need to book, just drop in. You’ll be able to take away a grafted tree for only a fiver. There will be charges for equipment and admission charges apply. @PlymMag

@PlymMag

The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

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Play Up for Plymouth programme gathers pace with latest improvements Play parks at Hooe Green and Dean Cross are the latest to have been made over as part of an ongoing play improvements scheme.

Meanwhile, work has also started on parks at Peacock Meadow, Boringdon Close, Plympton St Maurice, and at Mutley Park as the Hands Up For Plymouth Play programme ramps up. Improvements across these sites include new, dynamic pieces of equipment like zip lines and giraffe climbing frames, colourful design graphics to liven up the spaces, and much more. Patrick Nicholson, Deputy Leader and Cabinet member for Strategic Transport, Housing and Planning said: “Having already seen the improvements made in other parts of the city, it’s great to see six more parks get the makeover they deserve. “I’m also proud that we are delivering on a very clear policy to provide high quality play spaces within 400m of people’s homes. “I look forward to taking my family to the finished parks.” Following a community consultation and a successful The Hooe Primary School Council join (l-r) Emmie Readman, Natural tender process, Plymouth City Council has been working Infrastructure Officer; Cllr Patrick Nicholson, Deputy Leader and closely with play company Kompan to come up with a number Zoe Sydenham, Natural Infrastructure Officer at Hooe Green Park of ideas. Designs aim to complement the setting of each park, creating multiple play experiences which are both fun and As part of evidence gathering for the Joint Local Plan, the safe. council carried out an assessment of all of its play spaces As some of the sites will be undergoing a complete across the city with 29 out of 126 outdoor play spaces rated refurbishment, they will have to be closed temporarily while as poor or very poor, according to Play England’s quality work is carried out. rating. Further details and expected dates will be available on Whilst these sites will be targeted for improvement with posters which will go up around the play areas and on the the addition of new features to include natural play, there Nature Plymouth Facebook page. are also plans to develop play areas where there are gaps in Improvements to the six parks were expected to be provision. complete and ready to enjoy in time for Christmas. Enjoying the new play park at Miller Way The latest projects follow the eariler opening of a new play park in Estover. The park at Miller Way has been fitted with new and refurbished equipment with a dedicated, fenced area for toddlers. Meanwhile, a brand new BMX dirt track has been installed. Coun Nicholson added: “It’s so important that children have great places to play outdoors and access to nature. We know that when they do, they become fitter and leaner, develop stronger immune systems, have more active imaginations, lower stress levels, play more creatively and have greater respect for themselves and others.” Miller Way was just one of a number of parks to benefit from the pledge to invest announced in May, which has since been branded Hands Up For Plymouth Play.

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

PLYMOUTH MATTERS

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TRAVEL MATTERS

Breathtaking in Brazil

South America has always been at the top of my ‘bucket list’ to visit. It’s a part of the world where, except for Cancun in Mexico, I haven’t visited or know that much about. For that reason, I didn’t have to think twice when I was offered an educational trip to Brazil with Latin Routes, a specialist tour operator for South America. My journey started at Heathrow with a flight to Rio de Janeiro, via Lisbon, with TAP Portugal’s national airline. It is also possible to fly direct with British Airways to Rio, and other South American cities, so look into the price difference between airlines before you book. We were transferred from the airport to our hotel, overlooking the famous Copacabana beach. That evening we were treated to Brazil’s famous ‘Churrasco dining’ which if you’re a meat lover is amazing. You are offered over 16 different cuts and types of meat. Each person gets a small round placard that you can flip to the green 'Yes, please' side to let the servers know you'd like more BBQ. The servers come around periodically with giant skewers of BBQ and cut you a piece when you request it. When you’re full you flip the card to red ‘No thank you’. It was fantastic. The following morning, we were up early to experience what I imagined before the tour, would be the highlight of my whole trip. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the magnificent Christ the Redeemer, the iconic statue on top of Corcovado Hill is Rio’s most famous landmark. The Corcovado Hill is part of the Tijuca Forest, the largest urban forest in the world. On the way to its top is the Dona Marta Belvedere, from where it is possible to see the Maracanã Stadium, the famous Guanabara Bay and the beautiful Sugar Loaf Mountain. We embarked on a comfortable train that ascended the mountain towards the statue of Christ the Redeemer, located 2,300 ft above sea level. To be up close to the statue was a surreal experience which I have always wanted to see with my own eyes. The views were spectacular

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and the statue itself did not disappoint. After our visit, we were taken on a jeep tour of Rio taking us through the back streets and experiencing the real city. I have seen many television programmes showing how dangerous parts of Rio can be, but I felt perfectly safe walking around the streets behind the seafront. For our evening meal, we tried another Brazilian style restaurant. By Travel Expert Unlike the buffet restaurants in the UK where you pay per head, here you paid by the weight of your plate full of food! A very interesting concept which I don’t think will take off here. Our next tour was a trip to Sugar Loaf Mountain. It was given its name due to its resemblance to the traditional shape of a refined sugar loaf. The journey to the top is made in glass cable cars. The first cable car takes passengers to the top of Urca Hill, which rises 215 metres above sea level and offers spectacular views of the entire bay and its surrounding islands. At Urca Hill, passengers take the second cable car to the top of Sugar Loaf, which rises 395 metres above sea level and offers a 360-degree view of the entire city including Botafogo and Copacabana Beaches, Corcovado Hill and Rio’s downtown. This again is a must when visiting Rio. The views are spectacular and give you a totally different aspect of the city in comparison to Corcovado Hill. After two days of touring we were off to Buzios, a Brazilian beach resort three hours’ drive from Rio. Here we could re-charge our batteries with over 200 beaches to choose from and a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. When booking a trip to Brazil I would be tempted to end it with a stay at Buzios giving you the chance to reflect and relax after seeing this beautiful country. It didn’t seem long before we were departing

Anthony Goord

again. This time to Iguazu to see the magnificent Iguazu Falls, known throughout the world as one of the most beautiful and majestic natural waterfalls man has ever seen. The falls divide the waterway into the Upper and Lower Iguazu River. The northern bank of the falls is in the Brazilian State of Parana while the southern bank sits in the Argentinean Province of Misiones. The falls themselves consist of over 270 separate falls that stretch for more than one and a half miles. Most of the individual waterfalls are about 200 feet in height. The most famous of them all is known as the Devil's Throat, which is a U-shaped waterfall that is almost 500 feet across and well over 2,000 feet in length. Staying for two nights in Puerto Iguazu, on the Argentinian side of the falls, we were able to experience two half day tours of the falls, experiencing both sides. We started on the Argentinian side with a half a mile walk consisting of paths running along the basin of the Devil’s Gorge. The walkways are only a few metres from the edge of the main falls, where the noise and mist from the raging torrent was overpowering. We were then taken to the base of the falls for an unforgettable boat ride, which at one point take you right under the cascading water. I have in the past been on the ‘Maid of the Mist’ in Niagara but this experience dwarfed it. Everyone on the boat gets completely soaked but surprisingly it made the whole experience even more enjoyable and memorable. After drying off we were taken across the border into Brazil to experience the view of the other side of the falls. I was a bit sceptical at first thinking that I’d already experienced the best in the morning. How wrong I was! The Brazilian side of the Falls has a more panoramic view (compared with the closeup views you find on the Argentine side), with a walkway that descends past several overhangs and a catwalk looking over the falls that allows you to really get a sense of the power of the rushing water (prepare for a soaking if you choose to go all the way out). This view is totally overwhelming and I have to say it’s the most amazing sight I’ve ever seen. My whole view was taken up by cascading waterfalls, it was just unforgettable. The final leg of my trip took us to the Amazon Rainforest, covering large areas of Brazil, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia. The journey from Iguazu to the Amazon took us 13 hours in total, travelling on planes, buses and boats. When we arrived at our lodges on stilts you knew you had arrived in somewhere quite special. After dinner we embarked on an expedition to observe frogs, birds and most importantly the cayman. Our guide used his flashlight to help spot caymans. With his light, we saw the cayman’s eyes, which reflects a bright red dot, the light temporarily paralyzies them so he could pick it up and bring it onboard then returned to the river, unharmed. The following day we had a jungle hike. It was fascinating learning how the indigenous people survive on all the resources in the Amazon. A more amazing fact was that throughout the indigenous tribes in the Amazon cancer does not exist and, on average they live 25 per cent longer than the average person in South America. On the hike, we came across a massive tarantula spider. I kept my distance! On our final recreation in the Amazon we went piranha fishing, which scared me a little as I did go swimming in the same areas only minutes before. We did put them back but I certainly wouldn’t want a bite from one of them. After a fantastic 10 days, it was time for our journey home with a brief stop in Brasilia, the capital of Brazil. It was a pleasant enough city but with all that we had seen on our fantastic journey, this was a place I wouldn’t be rushing back to. I had an amazing time in Brazil and would recommend anyone to go there. I would be tempted to add Bueno Aires, Argentina, as an extra city stop if you have time. This would make your trip even more special. Happy Holidays! www.cornerstonevision.com

@PlymMag

The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

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PROPERTY MATTERS

Exclusive bungalow development in Plymstock Moyle Court in Furzehatt Road, Plymstock represents a rare opportunity to buy a high specification detached bungalow in one of the best residential areas in Plymouth. Arranged in a private and secluded development of just four new properties which also includes the refurbished original 1920s ‘Colonial style’ bungalow, ‘Madras’, the properties are being built by the award-winning Sunnybanks Homes who have built over 2,000 homes in Devon & Cornwall. The company specialise in building sought-after quality bungalow developments, including other completed sites in Plymouth at Woolwell Drive in Woolwell and Caradon Close in Derriford. Other examples of past developments can be found on the company’s website www. sunnybankshomes.co.uk The company prides itself on building to the highest quality and each home is built to the exacting NHBC standards and comes complete with a 10 year warranty. Each site and home is individually designed and great care is taken over the use of materials in order to create a home of character and quality. At Moyle Court the new-build bungalows have been designed to reflect the Colonial style of the existing bungalow, on the site. In addition, energy efficiency, wheelchair accessibility and low maintenance are essential elements of each individual design. Each property is built to a high specification with four double bedrooms with en-suites to both the master bedroom and guest bedroom. The spacious accommodation allows for a much easier ‘downsizing’ experience from a larger house. Many purchasers are looking to stay in the area where their

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

family and friends are and Moyle Court provides a rare but ideal opportunity to fulfil that desire. The new-build specification includes a quality ‘Chippendale’ contemporary styled kitchen with built-in double oven, multiburner gas hob, built-in microwave and an integrated fridgefreezer and dishwasher. Quality carpets and Karndean design flooring to the bathroom and en-suites and Roca sanitary ware are also included. An integrated cabling infrastructure for TV and networking which will give the opportunity to enjoy multiroom media systems and high speed Broadband is also supplied. The properties are in the top two per cent of all properties in the country as far as energy efficiency is concerned with gas central heating with a system boiler, wall mounted radiators and an airing cupboard with slatted shelves and a cylinder hot water system to ensure a continuous supply of hot water. That means large savings on energy bills compared to older homes. The properties are designed for easy maintenance too with quality uPVC double glazing, fascias and soffits. Plymstock's many facilities include The Broadway shopping precinct, a good selection of primary and secondary schools, doctors, dentist and a popular public library. So whatever your lifestyle, Moyle Court is perfectly placed to enjoy a single storey ‘future proofed’ home with the convenience and facilities of a central Plymstock location. The existing bungalow, ‘Madras’ is expected to be completed by early Spring 2018 and the first new-build bungalows from late Spring 2018. Further details can be obtained from the selling agents Bradleys (Plymstock office) on 01752 482481

BUSINESS MATTERS

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

With three fully working bathroom displays, 17 different working shower systems and a further 18 displays to view, plus a level access shower and steam room complete with spa seat and underfloor heating, Studio One South West is the place to visit if you’re looking for a beautiful bathroom or wet room for your home. Studio One South West’s brand new showroom at Estover is a one-stop-shop for homeowners, architects, interior designers and trade customers alike. At the time of writing, Studio One South West owner Mark Fowdon was all set for a New Year opening of the showroom, which will also stock stunning Italian tiles and a full range of bathroom accessories. With nine working bathroom radiators dotted around the displays, you’re guaranteed a warm welcome! For Mark, it’s a case of ‘mission accomplished’, with the purpose-built Plymouth showroom the final piece of the jigsaw puzzle after opening his other two showrooms in Pensilva and Wadebridge a couple of years ago: “It was always my plan to open our premier bathroom, wet room and tile showroom here

BUSINESS MATTERS

in Plymouth,” said Mark, who lives in Plymstock. “We had a small, boutique showroom at the Royal William Yard for a while, but that was always going to be just a shortterm arrangement while we waited for the perfect location to come up to house our main showroom.” Mark and his staff have kitted out the new showroom in Darklake View from scratch: “The idea was to create a real home experience for our customers,” explained Mark. “When people come here, they won’t need to visit anywhere else. With our working displays we can demonstrate different shower systems, flow rates, wet room floor drains and toilet systems. From there we can either just supply bathroom and tile products or we can supply and install them for our clients.” Mark, who has been in the bathroom business for 14 years, has a team of trusted tradesmen so that all works are done in-house for those customers wanting a supply-and-fit service. They will take care of everything, from the electrics, plastering, tiling, plumbing, carpentry and painting. In the showroom, experienced staff are on hand to guide customers through everything they need to know, from design and product options, to materials and installation: “Our customers get the very best advice available and that’s because of our product, design and installation knowledge,” explained Mark. The bathrooms at Studio One South West are all medium to high end, with some of the world’s best-known brands available including Laufen, Roca, Hansgrohe & Axor, Victoria & Albert, Geberit, Vola, Artelinea, Vado among many others. The Italian tiles are imported by the Cornwall Tile Centre, where Studio One South West’s two showrooms in Cornwall are based. There are bathroom styles to suit all tastes, from modern and contemporary to classic and traditional. But the brands aren’t restricted to those on display: “We always want the best for our clients, so we will source any brand for anyone, to make sure they get the materials of their choice,” said Mark. Mark and his team will arrange a no-obligation free consultation at their home. For those who wish to take things further, they can produce computer-generated 3D visuals so they can get an even better picture of what the bathroom will look like. It’s been a busy 12 months for Mark, because he has also updated the Cornwall showrooms this year. And he’s ready for things to get even busier now: “It’s a testament to the quality of our work that we’ve had such a good year,” he said. “Without sounding too arrogant, there's not a lot that we don't know about the installation of bathrooms and wet rooms, and the vast choice of bathroom equipment available. That’s why the vast majority of our work comes from personal recommendations by customers who’ve been impressed by the quality of our advice and service. We also work very closely with our clients, keeping them up to date with schedules of work or delivery dates of materials." He added: “Our aim, always, is for them to be happy and to look at their new bathroom and say ‘wow, that looks even better than we imagined it would look’. The key is to get the product selection right and then to have expert installers to do the work.” The Estover showroom is easy to find and has a large car park immediately outside. Pop in for a coffee and a chat to discuss your bathroom, wet room or tiling project – or visit the new-look website at www.studioonesw.co.uk for inspiration.

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PROPERTY MATTERS

Steady as she goes! Property market charts course through calm waters The Bank of England’s decision to raise interest rates for the first time in 10 years was something of a warning shot fired across the bows of a property market that has largely held a steady course in 2017, as Mansbridge Balment managing director Darren Lawson explains. Living in a city with a rich seafaring tradition, Plymothians know better than most that if you want to navigate the best course, you need a steady hand on the tiller.

Mansbridge Balment managing director, Darren Lawson

It’s the perfect analogy for the city’s property market in 2017 too. It got a bit choppy as we headed towards the end of the year, but overall, it’s been pretty much plain sailing for buyers and sellers alike. Even with the prospect of further interest rate rises on the horizon there is nothing to suggest we are about to find ourselves in stormy waters either. As a middle aged man who made his first foray into home ownership not long before rates leapt to a giddy 16 per cent

New Year, New Start

It is sadly no cliché that many couples decide to separate at the start of the year. The media will go into a frenzy telling us all about “Divorce Monday” and although some may think this is all media hype, it is undeniably true that many couples muddle their way through a family Christmas before making the decision to separate once the festivities are over. Although this is extremely sad, it makes sense that as we reach the end of the year, we take stock and think about the year ahead. Statistics tell us that one in five married couples consider separating after the festive period. Separation and divorce is a difficult decision for any couple. It is important to consider children first and avoid apportioning blame as much as possible. It is also important to get advice about the options available to you so that you

www.wolferstans.com 01752 292285

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

you have done everything can make the right decision you can to avoid a dispute for you. The sooner you do about how your assets this, the more prepared you should be divided between will be for the decisions you both. If you’re thinking that lay ahead. about taking the next At Wolferstans, January Vikki Martin step in your relationship; is a busy time of year Head of Family Law whether that be moving in for us. Although that is together or getting married, perhaps in part due to clients deciding to an agreement of this nature should start the process of a divorce, for feature on your “to do” list this year. others, it is about getting affairs in Wolferstans has a large specialist order. Have you made a Resolution family team dealing with all aspects of this year? As family solicitors, one divorce, separation, financial disputes of the more constructive things and disputes in relation to children. that we often find ourselves helping We can also help with the preparation clients with is the drafting of either of Cohabitation Agreements and a Cohabitation Agreement or a Pre Pre-Nuptial Agreements. For more Nuptial Agreement. These agreements information about how we can help set out how assets should be divided with your family law issues, please in the event of a separation in the contact our new client team on future. This gives you the security of 01752 292285. knowing that if you do separate, then

Wolferstans your local family law experts, here for you when you need us

PROPERTY MATTERS

overnight in the mid Nineties, it would be churlish to think that the recent 0.25 per cent rise would be aggressive enough to change the dynamic of the market. Clearly we cannot afford to be complacent. We continue to enjoy a long period of historically low rates that have helped the market to stay vibrant, without careering towards the bad old days of boom and bust. The Bank of England is experienced enough not to implement a rise we cannot cope with – but we must play our part too. There was again an issue around shortage of suitable housing stock in 2017. Nationally, there has been a fall of around 30 per cent this year in the supply of new properties coming to market, compared to 2016. Despite this, at Mansbridge Balment we have seen our market share grow, when comparing 2016 to 2017. Let’s be honest, it is a significant drop and although, as a business, I was delighted to see we had still increased our market share across all postcodes, if you ally a fall like that to the very low rates, then there is always a danger of demand seriously outstripping supply, thus causing a mini boom. That can bring obvious pitfalls, but in reality, what we have seen this year is a small level of price growth because of other factors at play, a General Election and continuing uncertainty around Brexit. Such a lack of consumer confidence may sound like a negative, but it’s a real positive in terms of maintaining a steady and stable housing market. Yes, the market has shrunk, but that does not overly concern me given the rise in our own performance - thanks in no small measure to the continued march of the first time buyer. We are fortunate in Plymouth to have stability among our major employers. That means lenders have confidence in approving mortgages for those looking to make that first step into home ownership. Let’s not forget the rise of the Bank of Mum and Dad either. Put Help to Buy and Stamp Duty reforms, that made such an impact last year, into the mix once again and you have a pretty tasty recipe for purchasing power. It was looking pretty tasty for us too. Our sales started

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strongly: indeed, by the end of the second quarter, we were on course for a record breaking year and our confidence was further buoyed by one of our busiest ever July and August periods, traditionally a time when the market slows before the pre-Xmas rush. But what do we know? As the clocks went back, our sales figures softened ensuring that 2017 largely mirrored those of 2016 in the final analysis. It looked like that hardy perennial, a lack of supply in the market, had finally caught up with us! Given that 2016 was our second best year ever, from a company sales performance/ perspective, it’s not a bad year to mirror. A small rise in our abortive sales rate, which, thanks to our sale progression team (incidentally, a service that’s still a rarity in estate agency) is still consistently 50 per cent lower than the national average, was of some concern as well. Further investigation showed that several of those sales had broken down where one of the new breed of online agents was in the chain. Perhaps they hadn’t qualified their client’s buyer properly, or the agent in question was nowhere to be found when their help was needed to resolve a fairly straightforward problem. To that extent, it is now our policy not to recommend a buyer to our clients when we know that they have sold their home via an online agent, or that such an agent is involved in the ‘would be buyer’s chain’. Little wonder then that I have been so vocal this year on the merits of high street estate agents with a proven heritage and exceptional levels of customer service. Talking of exceptional customer service, there were more Gold awards recently for both our Plymouth City and Plymouth North branches from allAgents.co.uk, widely regarded as the true benchmark for customer satisfaction among UK estate agents. The review site has acknowledged Mansbridge Balment as being 'best in Plymouth' for customer service. Not such a bad end to the year eh? Now steady as she goes in 2018!

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

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GARDENING MATTERS By Derek Anderson of Plymouth Garden Centre January is a bleak and cold month. The garden generally is the last thing on our minds, but there are many plants that actually shine at this time of year and look superb on those crisp, sunny days. To brighten up a difficult shady area, try Fatsia Japonica Spider’s Web. It’s a new variety with large, leathery, deeply lobed, hand shaped leaves. It has a distinctive white variegation that can be speckled or with blotches dotted around the leaf margins or through to the centre of the leaf, creating the illusion of a spider’s web. It produces clusters of white flowers in late autumn/winter, followed by black berries, which are great for the birds. It is an extremely low maintenance shrub and highly tolerant of dry shade once it is established. It is a highly architectural plant that looks great in large pots on its own, or as part of a mixed border or woodland garden. It will grow to a height and spread of 2.5m (10ft), but is slow growing and can easily be kept trimmed to size. Plant in a moist, fertile soil for best results. To brighten up a sunny spot, try Choisya ‘Aztec Gold,’ which is a new variety of Mexican Orange Blossom. The foliage is golden yellow in spring, maturing to lime green in winter. It produces white flowers in spring, early summer, and occasionally in autumn, that are almond scented, attracting bees. It’s beautiful if planted with other darker coloured foliage plants or with plants with contrasting blues and purple flowers. It likes well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade and is suitable for a pot or garden. It grows to a height and spread of 1.2m (4ft). Helleborus x ericsmithii ‘Penny’s Pink’ (pictured inset), ‘Molly’s White’, ‘Anna’s Red’ and ‘Angel Glow’ have attractive foliage and pretty flowers. They flower from February through to April and produce an abundance of flowers. Penny’s Pink flowers start off on deep pink stems with maroon buds that open up to reveal dusty pink flowers. As the flowers develop and fade, they gradually turn to a deeper pink. Molly’s White has flowers that start off white flush before gradually turning acid green with age. Angel Glow has deep pink buds that open up to reveal deep pink flowers streaked with cream. As the flowers age and fade, they turn an almost dusty pink streaked with green. Unlike traditional hellebores, the flowers on these varieties are much larger and can be as much as 10cm (4ins) across and face outwards and upwards instead of hanging down. After the flowers on all three have faded, it is important to remove the flowering stalks and any dead or tatty foliage to keep the plants looking their best. They all have attractive evergreen foliage which is a bonus as it creates interest all year round. The foliage is a pewter green colour with silver veins and mottling. It really stands out when planted in a slightly shaded position. The foliage on Anna’s Red and Penny’s Pink is particularly exceptional as the new leaves have pink and red veins as they emerge and mature. To get the best from them, grow them in a moist, humus rich compost that is free draining, they like high fertility, but hate to be waterlogged. They are versatile

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The Plymouth Magazine January 2018

Winter w

with regards to planting position as they will thrive in both sun and shade. Growing to a height of 40cm (16ins) with a spread of 40-60cm (16-24ins). The first bulbs to generally get up and going are the Snowdrops (Galanthus Nivalis), a much loved, old favourite that traditionally represent the end of winter and the beginning of spring. They can flower as early as January or as late as March depending on the season, but they generally come to their peak in February. The white hanging flowers are delicately scented and release a honey like scent that fills the air in warm days. They generally grow to a height of 15cm (6ins), depending on the variety, with the tallest being 22cm (8.5ins) and the smallest being 5cm (2ins). The spread after a few years can be between 30-60cm (12ft), but if left undisturbed they can form impressive carpets of white flowers in spring. Snowdrops can grow in most positions but prefer a shaded to partially shaded position, ideally beneath shrubs or trees, where they can be left untouched. They will grow in most soil types but prefer a soil that doesn’t dry out too much in the summer. Next to flower are the Winter Aconites (Eranthis Hyemalis).

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These spreading woodland plants appear shortly after or alongside Snowdrops. They are low growing, ground hugging plants that grow well beneath deciduous trees and shrubs, when they are bare, exploiting the winter sun and then dying back beneath the ground when they come into leaf. They produce masses of yellow buttercup like flowers in early February that really add splashes of bright colour to the garden when colour is few and far between. Winter Aconites grow to a height of 10cm (4ins) and each individual plant has a spread of 10-15cm (4-6ins), but spread to form clumps and carpets through bulbs spread and setting seeds. They are incredibly hardy and easy to grow and make a great addition to any garden. Grow them in a partially shaded site in a reasonably fertile, moist soil for best results. Iris Reticulata are the earliest of the Irises to flower and also the smallest. They produce single, fragrant flowers in late winter and early spring, that vary from yellow to pale blue through to deep blue or purple. They all have a yellow central ridge on each outer, downturned petals. They are an alpine plant originally, but are extremely tough and versatile, which makes them perfect for filling spring containers, as well as rock gardens or en masse under trees. You can also plant them direct into the ground to give little pockets of brightness and colour. They grow to a height and spread of 15cm (6ins), so plant them in groups for greater impact. Iris Reticulata grow best in well drained, soil in a position in full sun. Plant them deep and feed with tomato feed after they have finished flowering, to encourage flowering in following years. www.cornerstonevision.com

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The Plymouth Magazine December 2017

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