Search Property & Business Magazine

How Mark Akerman transformed a victorian terrace house

The hunger remains the same

Editor Cristina Axford

Property Expert

Jo Lines

Photography Dumitugraphy

Sales Monique Lyle

Chelsea May

Sales & Social Media

Claire Barnes Northcott

Design and Layout

Paul Scotton

Copywriting

Chris James

Louise Cottrill

Administration

Catherine Cruz

Funky Media Magazine takes no responsibility for claims made in advertising or advertorial in this magazine.

No part of Funky Media Magazine may be reproduced or copied in any way without prior written consent.

Editors Comments

Welcome to the inaugural edition of the Search Property & Business Magazine, part of the Funky family! I’m thrilled to launch as the comprehensive resource for all things property, construction, and business.

From flipping houses to fostering a greener future, this first issue has something for everyone - I’ve always been fascinated by properties and the stories behind projects and now I can share them with you.

Go behind the scenes with a “Homes Under the Hammer” entrepreneur and learn his secrets whilst gaining valuable insights for your next project. The story Flipping Success is all about how Mark Akerman transformed a Victorian terrace and boosted his property portfolio.

If you’re passionate about the environment like I am, explore the groundbreaking community interest company Nature1, which is paving the way to more sustainability. Find out how construction and wildflower meadows are joining forces to create a greener future, I’m particularly excited about this article. I believe that it’s important to find ways to protect our environment while also meeting the needs of a growing population. Restoring the Beauty of Nature, One Meadow at a Time.

Local football is back on the map and there is the wonderful and inspirational story about the journey of Kernow Football Alliance... it’s a story of partnership, patriotism and pride.

What’s more, I haven’t forgotten about the local heroes who make the business community thrive. Get inspired by the Trencherman Awards and the West Country Women Awards, they are both featured! It’s always inspiring to hear about successful women in business too.

01752 270 413 hello@funkymedia.agency www.funkymedia.agency

And because I know you’re busy, I’ve packed this issue with plenty of resources for local businesses, from advertisers to informative articles. So, grab a cuppa, settle in, and get ready to explore the exciting world of property, construction, and local business - the Search Property & Business Magazine way!

Best wishes, Cristina

#Nature1 PBN Networking

The hunger remains the same

How Mark Akerman transformed a victorian terrace house

Regeneration of wildflower meadowland through Construction Exeter & Plymouth

Flipping Success

Kernow FA by funkymedia agency

Cristina Axford

Chelsea May - Sales

Monique Lyle - Sales

Jo Lines - Property Expert

Chris James - Copywriter

Catherine Cruz - Administration

Louise Cottrill - Copywriter

Ray Marett - TV Production

Claire Barnes Northcott - Sales & Social Media

Paul Scotton - Design & Layout

A hotbed of unrecognised talent

West Country Women Awards: Year 3

There is a buzz around the region! The West Country Women Awards have once again opened for nominations, for the third year! Their mission is to celebrate and honour the achievements of women in the West Country, recognising their outstanding contributions to various fields and their positive impact on the community.

The awards have two fabulous headline sponsors, Plymouth Citybus (part of Go Ahead) and PL1 Events! The awards would not be able to run without their support. Talking about support, the awards Charity of the Year is now Gifted Women (their founder Jenny Adjene won The Women in Charity Award last year).

Last year over £3k was raised for previous Charity of the Year Georgia’s Voice! Let’s see if that total can be beaten!

Through this platform, the aim is to empower, inspire, and support women, fostering a culture of inclusivity and equality while highlighting their remarkable accomplishments. More about that later!

They have a collaboration with the Devon Women in Business Awards meaning their winners from 2023 receive a ‘Golden Ticket to become Semi-Finalists this September. But do you know a phenomenal woman who excels in her field and makes a positive impact in the West Country?

How does it work?

The nominations process is super easy! A West Country Woman only needs one nomination to unlock the application form! Fill this out on their website (westcountrywomen.co.uk), all you need is your details along with their name and email address (you can explain why you have nominated them too if you wish).

Once complete, your nominee gets a fabulous email drop into their mailbox automatically with those wonderful words “You’ve been NOMINATED”. What a fab way for someone to start their day, getting that along with a badge to use on their email signatures and social media graphics too!

For a nominee to continue their awards journey, a link is also included in the email to the application form. This application must be submitted, as the judges score these to work out their semi-finalists, finalists and ultimately their winner for November.

The awards are judged by category sponsors or ambassadors to the awards – it is not a public vote and they ask that women don’t post across social media asking for votes!

Trencherman’s Guide editor Abi Manning and Salt Media’s editorial director Jo Rees hosted the ceremony which is considered the region’s hottest ticket in the culinary calendar, comprising a multi-course feast cooked by previous award winners with the nine prizes given throughout the evening. The event was attended by leading South West chefs, restaurateurs, hoteliers, and food and drinks businesses. This year’s event had a dress code of ‘vintage glamour’ – inspired by the grand setting of Bovey Castle – and the fabulous outfits with sequins, feathers and velvet ensured guests felt transported to a golden era for the evening.

Trencherman’s Guide editor Abi Manning said: ‘It’s always a delight to gather the very best of the South West’s hospitality scene in one room. Their hard work, dedication and passion is the reason the South West enjoys such a stellar reputation for dining, and the awards showcase that.

‘Trencherman’s restaurants represent the best of the best in the region, so competition is tough and being a finalist in itself is a huge achievement. Yet one of the joys of the awards is that there is such a sense of camaraderie and community – everyone is there to celebrate each other, and the South West hospitality industry as a whole.’

In traditional Trencherman’s style, three of last year’s award winners plus the host chef crafted the ceremony’s four-course feast: Andrew Swann of The Castle at Taunton (starter), Rick Toogood of Prawn on the Lawn (fish), host chef Mark Budd of Bovey Castle (main) and Scott Paton of Acleaf (dessert). The quality cooking was paired with fine wines from Hallgarten and Novum, and Cornish beers from Sharp’s. Canapés were served with Classic Cuvée Multi Vintage from Nyetimber, Trevethan Original Dry Gin and Navas Garden Tonic, as well as non-alcoholic alternative Drinks Kitchen Orange Cinchona and tonic.

Photo credits: Guy Harrop/Salt Media

Nicholas Balfe - Somerset Restaurant Holm

Scarlet Hotel - Mawgan Porth

Queen of Cups - Glastonbury

Trencherman’s Awards 2024 winners and grand finalists

BEST TRENCHERMAN’S CHEF

- sponsored by Hallgarten & Novum Wines

Winner: Ben Palmer, The Sardine Factory

Finalists: Dave Jenkins, Salumi Bar & Eatery; Harriet Mansell, Lilac Restaurant & Wine Bar; Nicholas Balfe, Holm; Rick Toogood, Prawn on the Lawn

BEST TRENCHERMAN’S RESTAURANT

- sponsored by Dole

Winner: Holm, South Petherton

Finalists: Edie’s, Carlyon Bay; Kota Restaurant, Porthleven; The Clockspire Restaurant and Bar, Sherborne; The Sardine Factory, West Looe

AWARD FOR SPECIAL CONTRIBUTION

- sponsored by Trevethan Distillery

Winner: The Polizzi Family

BEST TRENCHERMAN’S HOTEL

- sponsored by Classic Fine Foods

Winner: Scarlet Hotel, Mawgan Porth

Finalists: The Godolphin Hotel & Restaurant, Marazion; The Manor House, Castle Combe; The Seaside Boarding House, Burton Bradstock; The Slaughters Manor House, Lower Slaughter

BEST TRENCHERMAN’S PUB

- sponsored by Sharp’s Brewery Winner: The Dartmoor Inn, Lydford

Finalists: The Langford Inn, Langford; The Old Coastguard, Mousehole; The Sheppey Inn, Wells; Three Horseshoes Pub & Kitchen, Burton Bradstock

AWARD FOR CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION

- sponsored by St. Ewe

Winner: Lilac Restaurant & Wine Bar, Lyme Regis

Finalists: Circa, Sandridge Barton; Holm, South Petherton; Queen of Cups, Glastonbury; The Queen’s Arms, Corton Denham

Photo credits: Guy Harrop/Salt Media

BEST FRONT OF HOUSE TEAM

- sponsored by Navas Winner: Tom’s Lyme Regis, Lyme Regis

Finalists: Fletcher’s Restaurant, Plymouth; The Bath Arms at Longleat, Horningsham; The Bell Inn, Selsley; The Bunch of Grapes, Bradford-on-Avon

BEST TRENCHERMAN’S NEWCOMER

- sponsored by Harvey & Brockless Winner: Queen of Cups, Glastonbury

Finalists: Bar & Bistro at Tintagel Brewery, Tintagel; Bedruthan Hotel & Spa, Mawgan Porth; Catch at the Old Fish Market, Weymouth; Source Kitchen, St Ives

BEST BAR LIST

- sponsored by South West 660 Winner: The Old Coastguard, Mousehole

Finalists: Beckford Bottle Shop, Bath; Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa, Newquay; The Club House, West Bexington; Winslade Manor Bar & Restaurant, Exeter

Other praise for the Trencherman’s Guide:

Rick Stein MBE: ‘From day one it was a guide I believed in.’

Michael Caines MBE, chair of the Trencherman’s committee: ‘The Trencherman’s Guide showcases only the very best dining experiences and is the only independent, quality-controlled guide in the South West’

Nathan Outlaw: ‘One of the guides you want to get into as a chef’

Jack Stein: ‘We’ve been associated with the guide since its inception. It holds a special place in promoting excellence.’

William Sitwell, The Telegraph restaurant critic: ‘Very few areas of the country have a guide like Trencherman’s, which rivals Hardens or Michelin.’

The Old Coastguard, Mousehole

Tom’s Lyme Regis

The Dartmoor Inn, Lydford

Lilac Restaurant and Wine Bar, Lyme Regis

The South West Visitor Economy Hub IS LIVE!

A new free online software tool is being launched to provide tourism businesses with access to a vast range of data from many different sources showing sector and visitor trends.

The South West Visitor Economy Hub continuously collects data and presents it using pictures and graphics. Unlike one-off surveys, aggregated and up-to-date information enables sector and visitor trends to be constantly tracked, and the changes understood.

The hub’s aim is to help businesses and organisations in the tourism sector understand:

• Who visits Devon and Somerset

• How many visitors travel here

• What they think about the area

• Why people aren’t visiting and what their perceptions are

• What the economic impact of tourism is

• What the future holds

• The impact of digital marketing

• How your business is performing against your peers

• What impacts business performance, for better and worse

Easy to use, businesses can log in from a desktop computer or smart device and see how the sector is changing, both locally and further afield, in real time. The data hub also equips sector and support organisations with better, more comprehensive information so that they can make better decisions about marketing, planning, policy making and investing in the tourism sector for the future.

For the data in the system to be truly robust and give a complete picture, every business needs to play their part by providing basic information about themselves and updating it on a regular basis. No-one else can see this data, but when combined with all the other intelligence in the system, each user will be able to understand so much more, including being able to compare their performance with sector peers.

The South West Visitor Economy Hub is the product of extensive consultation with tourism businesses and organisations in the region, as well as Devon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce, Somerset Chamber of Commerce, Devon’s Top Attractions and PASC.

Created specifically for tourism businesses and organisations, it is the first product of its kind bringing much needed real time data and insight to all.

For more information and to see the system in action, click on the link to watch the introductory webinar and follow the instructions to sign-up SWVEHub Webinar.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dueOqlqi-K8

Visit South Devon UPDATE

We are delighted to announce we have taken over the digital marketing for Dawlish Warren Tourism Association and we have a set up a new partnership with Dawlish Chamber of Trade and Commerce to help connect the visitor offer of Dawlish and Dawlish Warren. As a result of this partnership we have recently launched a combined destination brand - Discover Dawlish and Dawlish Warren.

The digital assets for this new brand is going from strength to strength with a Facebook page of over 18,000 followers and an average monthly organic reach of 350,000. A new website area is being created on the Visit South Devon website platform www. discoverdawlishanddawlishwarren.co.uk to help promote the area and showcase the wonderful independent businesses we have across Dawlish and Dawlish Warren. Since launching the new brand in May we have seen a big increase in local businesses buying into our new social media campaign for Discover Dawlish and Dawlish Warren and this is thanks to the Dawlish Chamber of Trade and Commerce.

This new partnership also supports the commitment of Visit South Devon to help support local towns and areas in South Devon with destination marketing support across the South Devon region.

Plans for the future will include a focus on developing new itineraries for the Group Travel Market to showcase Dawlish and Dawlish Warren to this lucrative market with support from Dawlish Town Council. Business Support will also be available and networking events are being organised to bring the local tourism businesses together to help share best practises.

For more information on our work with Discover Dawlish and Dawlish Warren and Visit South Devon please contact Jo Butler - General Manager – jo@visitsouthdevon.co.uk Website – www.visitsouthdevon.co.uk

VSD Update SW660

The Visit South Devon/Discover Dartmouth team have been incredibly busy over the past few months. Our ethos is focused on collaboration to showcase tourism and hospitality throughout South Devon. This mindset is definitely key and we are looking forward to what the future brings.

Recent collaborations have included our South West 660 Roadtrip. This was the vision of 10 local businesses based along the SW660 route between Dartmouth and Salcombe. The aim was to showcase a range of activities and hospitality businesses together with the breathtaking scenery en-route. We were driven in style by Paul from our friends at Hilton Ames Chauffeurs in their latest luxury vehicle. Starting at Bayards Cove Inn, Dartmouth for croissants and coffee we headed to Blackpool Sands for a paddleboard and wood-fired sauna demonstration by Sea Kayak Devon. Next was a fabulous rum tasting experience at Devon Rum Co in Salcombe followed by a delicious seafood lunch at The Winking Prawn. Last but not least was a stop at the wonderful Thurlestone Hotel for a traditional cream tea on the terrace overlooking the surrounding countryside and coastline.

Supporting our trip was Charlie Flounders the Creative Director of Firefly Productions who is currently producing a stunning video from her drone footage. We can’t wait to share it with you soon!

We held our annual members event in the very regal setting of Powderham Castle in May. Guests were treated to samples from some of South Devon’s top drink producers. These included Bays Brewery, Bar Buoy Cocktails, Sandridge Barton Wines, Powderkeg Brewery, Exeter Gin, Tors Vodka, Owens Coffee, Salcombe Brewery and Devon Rum Co. This was followed by a delicious buffet lunch, castle tour and plenty of opportunity for networking.

For information about membership or to find out more about what we do contact louise@visitsouthdevon.co.uk.

South Devon charcuterie company Rare & Pasture announces merger with

TEMPUS FOODS

South Devon charcuterie and smoked meat brand Rare & Pasture has announced it is merging its business with Weybridge-based charcuterie company Tempus Foods, owned by Masterchef finalists Tom Whitaker and Dhruv Baker, with the aim of expanding production and sales of both of their award-winning products.

Left and Centre: Dhruv Baker and Tom Whitaker from Tempus Foods Right: Andrew Owens from Rare & Pasture

By bringing together the skills and facilities of both businesses, the partnership creates both unparalleled product expertise and unique production scale within the British charcuterie sector. The merged business will continue to trade under both the Rare & Pasture and Tempus Foods brands, with sales and distribution being led from the Tempus location in Weybridge, Surrey, and production and packing shared between the two sites.

Rare & Pasture is based at Fowlescombe Farm, a regenerative farm in South Devon. It produces a range of exceptional charcuterie products using high-welfare meat from its own farm and from other farms that share its values and care. In addition to its charcuterie, Rare & Pasture produces a highly successful range of cooked meat products, some of them organic, including naturally smoked frankfurters. A key objective of the merged entity will be to make this range available through the combined Tempus Foods sales channels.

Tom and Dhruv got to know one another after both appearing on the BBC series Masterchef UK and set up Tempus Foods together in 2017. They’re committed to utilising the food chain responsibly and use their technical knowledge and passion for flavour to create exceptional tasting products. Their range includes salamis and whole muscle products such as King Peter Ham, Smoked Coppa and Bresaola.

The focus of the two companies is to supply trusted, ethically-sourced meat and meat products that are not just tastier and healthier to eat but also better for the planet, for farmers and their animals.

Dhruv Baker, commercial director said:

“The growth of Tempus has been constrained in the past by the size of our production facilities and our access to working capital. By combining with Rare & Pasture, we remove these bottlenecks and position ourselves to better serve the fast-growing UK charcuterie market. Through this merger we will continue to make the well-loved products that both businesses have become known for and have greater potential to expand our range into related cooked meat products.

“Each side of this transaction has been hugely impressed by what the other has to offer, and we very much look forward to working together. It’s the perfect partnering of two successful, ethical charcuterie brands.”

Andrew Owens, Chairman of Rare & Pasture commented:

“The British charcuterie and artisan meat product market is highly fragmented, leading to an unnecessarily high cost base, often combined with supply reliability issues. Through this transaction we are creating greater supply capacity as well as product and customer service synergies that can accelerate the development of this evolving British food sector.

“Our mission is not restricted to either our existing geographic situation or our existing product range, and so it is hoped that this merger will also stimulate other like-minded artisan producers and farmers to offer their skills and products into our growing portfolio.”

Warrens Bakery & Sandford Orchards collaborate to launch

PORK & DEVON RED CIDER PASTY

The oldest Cornish pasty producer in the world, Warrens Bakery, is thrilled to launch a new Pork & Devon Red Cider Pasty, crafted using award-winning cider from Devon’s Sandford Orchards. The pasty, which is a collaboration between two of the South West’s best known brands, will be available from the 17th June in all of Warrens Bakery’s 39 stores across the West Country, South Wales and South East.

Shane Duheame, Shop Manager at Warrens Bakery Cullompton, says: “We are delighted to have worked with Sandford Orchards to create this fabulous summer pasty. Sandford Orchards is based in the oldest working cider mill in the country and produces real cider using traditional methods and apples from ancient local orchards, in Devon’s cider heartlands. Just like Warrens Bakery, they have their roots in the South West, so they were the obvious choice to add a cider zing to our pork pasty. This collaboration brings together Cornwall and Devon in a pasty and showcases the best of the South West!

Shane continues: “While famed for our traditional Cornish pasty, we love to innovate and wanted to create something a little different to the usual pasty flavours this summer. This new pasty is made with a delicious hand crimped flaky pastry case, complete with a sage and rusk topping and is packed full of juicy pork, apple, potato and onion, all enhanced with a generous helping of Devon Red cider.”

The new Pork & Devon Red Cider Pasty will be available from 17th June in all 39 of Warrens Bakery stores, RRP from £4.65.

Barny Butterfield, Founder of Sandford Orchards, adds: “Pork and apples have always been a winning combination and we are delighted that our Devon Red Cider is adding an extra apple hit to this tasty new pasty. For centuries, a pasty and pint of cider has been considered the perfect pairing for a Westcountry summer lunch. Now the team at Warrens Bakery has brought that tradition bang up to date with their newest pasty recipe and we love it! We think it’s going to be hugely popular and perhaps even put pasties on the radar for those who have so far been ignorant of this historic local delicacy.”

Warrens Bakery is the oldest bakery in Cornwall and the oldest Cornish pasty maker in the world. Established in 1860, they have a rich heritage and are proud to put a firm focus on provenance, hand crafted skill, traditional favourites and innovation.

Founded in 2002, independent family-owned Sandford Orchards is based in Crediton, mid Devon in the oldest working cider mill in the UK and set in one of the most fertile parishes in all of Britain. They take a fresh, natural and low impact approach to producing cider and by combining tradition and innovation produce an award-winning range of core session, traditional, fine and fruit ciders.

For further information about Warrens Bakery, follow warrens_bakery on Instagram and Warrens Bakery on Facebook.

For further information on Sandford Orchards please visit www.sandfordorchards.co.uk and follow Sandford Orchards on X, Facebook and Instagram.

Bereavement Charity

One child in 29 will experience the death of a parent or sibling, a shocking statistic that equates to one child in every classroom in every school at any given time. Bereavement in childhood is recognised as an Adverse Childhood Experience with a potential lifelong impact

Jeremiah’s Journey is a bereavement charity providing age-appropriate therapeutic interventions for children and young people in Plymouth and surrounding areas in East Cornwall and Devon. It provides emotional and practical support for children, young people and their families who are pre-bereavement (expecting a death), and those who have been bereaved. They are currently supporting over 700 children and young people each year, with the wider family benefit extending to 2,000 people annually.

“It is important for young people to understand that they aren’t alone and that their feelings are normal”

Since the charity started in 1996, its work has been proven to improve health and well-being, school attendance, sleep and social connection to over 7,000 children.

One of the charity’s key support groups is its Grief Journey Group. Bereavement Services Manager James Walbank explained: “Experienced volunteers are trained and work alongside children, young people and parents/carers, giving a high level of attention as they respond to activities and stories. Because we plan carefully, according to age, different age groups respond well to the content of the sessions. As they attend successive sessions, their confidence and abilities grow. By the end of group, they are often at a stage where they have skills and language that can be used in the future.”

It costs around £250,000 each year to keep Jeremiah’s Journey running, providing such essential local support. However, the charity has never received any statutory or commissioned funding and relies on grant applications, fundraising and donations to continue its work. The recent partnership with Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival was a great way of raising the charity’s profile and hopefully building long term supporter partnerships.

If you would like to find out more about Jeremiah’s Journey please visit www.jeremiahsjourney.org.uk

A BEACON OF HOPE

3 years strong! Georgia’s Voice provides a safe haven for young women in Cornwall. Free weekly support groups (online & 12 locations) empower them to connect & build a strong community.

Lifesaving Hub and Café

Great news for young women in Cornwall! Georgia’s Voice, a renowned mental health charity, is opening a brand new hub in Pool. This exciting venture goes beyond just a space - it’s a lifeline.

Imagine a safe haven where young women can connect, access emotional support, build a supportive network, and learn valuable skills for managing mental health challenges. That’s the vision behind Georgia’s Voice’s new hub, aptly nicknamed their “village.”

But the good news doesn’t stop there! To ensure the hub thrives, Georgia’s Voice is also launching a fantastic café open to the entire community. Enjoy delicious coffee, tea, breakfast, lunch, and snacks – all while contributing to a worthy cause. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Crowdfunder to get things going

Georgia’s Voice is crowdfunding to raise the initial costs for this vital hub. Funds will also go towards crucial first-year expenses, including wellbeing workshops for the young women they serve.

Here’s the exciting part: their fundraising campaign isn’t stopping there! To generate buzz and secure even more support, they’ve hinted at a mysterious “huge challenge” – 5,4,3,2,1...

5 Women, 4 Stories, 3 Peaks, 2 Days, 1 Mission

5 of the Georgia’s Voice team (the trustees and founder) climbed the national 3 Peaks, Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowden over 2 days on the 18th & 19th June! The mission as alwaysto reduce the suicide rate in young women in Cornwall. As part of this campaign, 4 true life stories from 4 incredible members have also been released on their website.

Join Georgia’s Voice in making a difference! Donate to their Crowdfunder campaign and be part of something special, find out more about the café and hub: Please visit www.georgiasvoice.co.uk

Te Tao Chinese Medical Centre Natural Healing & Holistic Therapies

To Improve the Health of Whole Person (Body-Mind-Spirit)

Comprehensive Services:

At Te Tao Chinese Medical Centre, centuries-old traditions are blended with modern expertise to provide you with personalised care and natural healing solutions.

☯

1. Acupuncture: Experience the healing power of acupuncture, a gentle method that balances your body’s energy, reduces pain, and promotes overall wellness.

2. Herbal Medicine: Harness the natural remedies of Chinese herbs, customized to address your specific health concerns and support your body’s natural healing processes.

☯ 3. Tuina: Rejuvenate your body and soothe tense muscles with tuina, a specialized therapeutic massage rooted in Chinese medicine.

☯ 4. Acupressure: Alleviate tension, stress, and discomfort through the ancient art of acupressure, targeting specific points to promote relaxation and balance.

☯ 5. Gua Sha: Revitalize your body with gua sha, a traditional scraping technique that enhances circulation and relieves muscle tension.

☯ 6. Moxibustion: Enjoy the soothing warmth of moxibustion, a technique that involves burning a special herb to stimulate energy flow and vitality.

☯ 7. Cupping Therapy: Improve circulation, reduce pain, and relax deeply with our cupping therapy, utilizing gentle suction cups.

☯ 8. Tea Therapy: Explore the calming, detoxifying or healing properties of different Chinese tea therapies, thoughtfully selected to complement your wellness journey.

☯ 9. Tai Chi and Qigong: Embrace the ancient practices of Tai Chi and Qigong to enhance balance, flexibility, and inner harmony, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

About the expert TCM practitioner

Dr Tony Tang was educated in China and UK, and studied both Chinese medicine and Western medicine. In 1986 he was awarded a British Council scholarship to study at the Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Metabolic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Newcastle University, eventually obtaining a PhD in 1991. Dr Tang is a professional member of the Federation of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners, and in 2017 he was awarded a Guest Professorship at Shenzhen Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China. Dr Tang has extensive Chinese medical experience and successfully treated many patients with all kinds of chronic conditions, especially pain problems (neck/shoulder/back, sciatica, migraine, fibromyalgia, arthritis, gout, frozen shoulder), skin issues (eczema, psoriasis, hives, acne, herpes, vitiligo), mental/emotional disorders (anxiety, panic attacks, depression, PTSD, OCD, insomnia), and other conditions such as hay fever, tinnitus, vertigo, asthma, COPD, IBS, ED, menopause symptoms etc.

Some Testimonials

Excerpts from Google Reviews (search more reviews on google by typing Te Tao Chinese Medical Centre):

1. I had intense migraines for 30 years and with Dr Tang’s great help they are now completely gone. Rafal

2. I came to see Dr Tang with insomnia problems and after one treatment my sleep has improved greatly. I will not hesitate to go and see Dr Tang again. I highly recommend him for health issues that the western doesn’t know how to apprehend. Valerie

3. Very effective treatment; great to have the combination of acupuncture and herbs balancing whole body system as well as the presented symptoms. Friendly communication and pleasant clean environment. Thank you. Christian

4. I came to see Dr Tang for a very painful sciatica and he did wonders with a combination of acupuncture and deep tissue massage. After only one session, all the pain in my leg is gone and I’m walking normally. Thank you. Hadrien

5. I went to see Dr. Tang with worsening bronchitis which had been going on for three months and a long term IBS condition. I chose Dr Tang because he not only speaks fluent English, but has an impeccable medical background in both TCM and western medicine. He prescribed a course of traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture. My bronchitis recovered fully after 5 Weeks of treatment, which is astonishing and my IBS and energy is much better. I am very grateful to Dr. Tang as I was struggling with western medicine and a course of antibiotics was the next step. Dr. Tang is an exceptional medical practitioner and fully listened to what I was saying, with an empathetic manner and an open heart. Now I know where to go when I need my system balancing and when I get sick again. I Highly recommend Dr. Tang. Kay

6. Te Tao Chinese Medical Centre is nicely set out and very clean compared with some other places. More importantly, Dr Tang is truly an expert in Chinese medicine and has solved all my pain problems (migraine, neck, shoulder, back, sciatica, knees) completely through his magic acupuncture and tuina massage skills. Thank you so much! 100% recommend this wonderful traditional Chinese medical clinic. Danny

7. Dr Tang has offered a great service with extensive knowledge into acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. I would recommend anyone to go and visit his clinic and discuss their needs. Dr Tang is very approachable and can offer many different treatment methods and how best to approach a particular condition. Bryan

Why Choose Te Tao Chinese Medical Centre:

• Excellence in Care with Expert Practitioner: Dr Tony Tang is a licensed and experienced TCM practitioner who is dedicated to your health and well-being.

• Holistic Approach: All aspects (including physical, mental & spiritual) of the whole person, rather than just isolated physical parts are treated, addressing the root causes of health problems to promote lasting well-being.

• Personalised Care: Your health is unique, and so are the TCM treatment plans & services, which are tailored to meet your specific needs and goals.

• Natural Healing: All the therapies are natural and safe, offering you a gentle and effective path to balance, healing and wellness.

Embark on Your Wellness Journey:

Your path to improved health and vitality begins at Te Tao Chines Medical Centre. Contact today to schedule your consultation and begin a journey to explore the rich world of traditional Chinese medicine to discover the ancient wisdom of the East and to achieve overall well-being and harmony.

Opening hours: Monday-Saturday: 9am-6pm

Address: 22-24 Market Avenue, Plymouth PL1 1PH

Contact: 07949 849989

E-mail: ttchinesemedicine@gmail.com

Web site: www.ttchinesemedicine.co.uk

Life Is Like a Sat Nav

To succeed at life, we only need to know two things: Where we want to go, and where we are now. In that respect, we are like a sat nav!

We need to first work out what we want from and in our life. Ignore anything that says you can’t be / do / have them! Pretend there are no limits.

Like a sat nav, we also need to know where we are right now. Our location yes, but also our skills, assets, relationships, morals, beliefs, likes, dislikes, ideas, bank balance...

Once we know where we are and where we want to go, we simply need to get started.

We do not need to know the whole journey! Like a sat nav, you cannot be told to turn left if you haven’t first crossed the roundabout!

So where are you now and where do you want your life to go?

Take some time today answering these questions, and get in touch if you want an impartial discussion to get clear on them and work out your next step.

We’re here to support you on your journey to success!

Jaiye Cordory

Phone: +44 7763 443592

Email: rypjaiye@rethinkyourperspective.com

www.rethinkyourperspective.com

www.linkin.bio/rethink_your_perspective

FIND FREEDOM from unwanted hair at

From Home-Based Treatments to a Thriving Clinic: Fiona’s Story

Welcome to The Ivy Laser Clinic, a haven for those seeking permanent hair removal solutions. Founded by Fiona in 2019, the clinic has blossomed from a home-based service to a successful brickand-mortar establishment. Fiona’s passion for laser hair removal stems from her own experience 15 years ago, where she witnessed the transformative power of this treatment first hand.

Driven by a desire to offer effective and personalised solutions, Fiona started her journey with a 2000-watt laser. Recognising the importance of advanced technology, she upgraded to the powerful Primelase laser, boasting a maximum power of 4800 watts. This investment ensured optimal results for a wider range of clients.

A Family Affair: Expanding Expertise

In June 2022, Fiona’s daughter, Lucy, joined the team, enabling the establishment of a true laser clinic. Together, they believe in a one-machine, one-technician approach for optimal control and consistency. Lucy specialises in tattoo removal using the Q10 laser, while Fiona reigns supreme over the Primelase for hair removal treatments.

September 2022 marked a significant milestone with the opening of their dedicated clinic space in Ivybridge. The meticulously refurbished space reflects their commitment to providing a professional and comfortable environment for clients.

Driven by Results and Passion

Both Fiona and Lucy are certified skincare specialists who share a passion for delivering exceptional outcomes. They understand the emotional and physical toll of unwanted hair growth, especially for those with conditions like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), ingrown hairs, and hormonal imbalances. Their expertise extends to helping clients with Body Dysmorphia and those transitioning genders, offering a safe and supportive space for everyone.

Beyond Hair Removal: A Holistic Approach

The Ivy Laser Clinic goes beyond just hair removal. Fiona is particularly concerned with the damage caused by traditional hair removal methods like waxing, shaving, and plucking. Witnessing clients neglect their skin due to unwanted hair growth fuelled her desire to offer a holistic approach. By achieving permanent hair removal, Fiona and Lucy empower clients to regain confidence and embrace healthy, flourishing skin.

Looking Forward: Growth and Education

The future for The Ivy Laser Clinic is bright. Fiona and Lucy envision continued growth through industry networking, attending refresher training, and potentially even offering laser treatment training courses (a future dream!). Their dedication to ethical practices is evident in their free consultations.

FIONA’S SERVICES:

• Laser Hair Removal

• Relax and Glow Facials (Indian head massage and facial combined treatment - coming soon)

LUCY’S SERVICES:

• Tattoo Removal

• Carbon Laser Facials

• Relaxing Targeted Facials

• Facial Electrics

• Lash Extensions

• Fungal Nail Treatment

Kernow FA

The

hunger

remains the same.

Cornwall doesn’t need permission to be at its best and I’m sure that will continue for years to come,” Kernow Football Alliance chairman and co-founder, Jason Heaton.

The spring sun shines upon Priory Park’s lush green surface. The gold and black of the host’s kit glistens in all its glory. Swathes of support sing from the stand, beckoning history their way. It is Saturday, May 25, 2019 – and international football has arrived in Cornwall.

The first whistle is met with a roar of emotion as Kernow Football Alliance kick-off against visiting Barawa, ‘there to represent the capital of the southwestern Somalia state against a collection of players carrying the hopes, dreams and hunger of 11 million Cornish people around the world.

It is just six months since Kernow [the word for Cornwall in its native language] were elected to join the Confederation of Independent Football Associations – simply referred to as CONIFA – and only their third game together as a team, following two unofficial friendly fixtures against local opposition within the Duchy.

The story since that day – which ended in a 5-0 triumph for the home side – has been one of partnership, of patriotism and of pride, as the Kernow Football Alliance secured qualification to the 2020 World Football Cup (WFC), something celebrated, as the Cornish motto goes, by Onen hag oll (one and all).

“Kernow FA has, since its conception, never failed to deliver,” says chairman and co-founder Jason Heaton. “It has delivered international football and created something that even the non-football fan can get behind.

“It was always about bringing the community together, creating the right environment to thrive and co-operation, in respect of the very pillars of the Cornish way of life. This is what has opened doors to something new and exciting.”

Long has there been a movement to seek greater autonomy for Cornwall – known for its world-renowned mining prowess in the form of tin and copper, as well as china clay within the United Kingdom –similar to that seen in Wales, in Scotland and in Northern Ireland.

In 2014, Cornwall, recognised as a Celtic nation alongside Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Brittany and CONIFA counterparts Isle of Man (Ellan Vannin), was recognised as a distinct ethnic group and granted minority status under the European Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities.

These days, fishing, agriculture and tourism are three of the major industries in the Duchy with people flocking from far and wide to visit Cornwall’s joyous juxtaposition of coastline and moorland.

While the county’s own dialect is seeing something of a revival, fuelling the immense feeling of identity, culture and heritage within the region, it is the international language of football that is largely being utilized to take Cornwall forward.

Plans were in place, backed to the hilt by the Cornish people and endorsed by its very own Cornwall Football Association, to visit North Macedonia in the summer of 2020 – a year on from the Barawa game – to compete in the WFC as Europe’s top qualifiers.

Ultimately, the tournament was shelved due to the outbreak of covid-19 but, far from feeling sorry for themselves, time off the pitch has been spent firming up the foundations of Kernow FA.

“The time has been used to develop behind the scenes and make sure we’re ready when the time is right,” continued Heaton. “We have remained creative during a global crisis, which shows our capacity to endure and uphold the Cornish spirit.

“Now, with a director for inclusive football and at least two major tournaments on the horizon in 2021 [European Football Cup and No-Limits], we can set the bar higher than ever. The hunger remains the same. Cornwall doesn’t need permission to be at its best and I’m sure that will continue for years to come.”

The idea for a Cornish membership was first floated in December 2016 by county native and co-founder Andrew Bragg, who has followed the project through to the present day, now taking up the Alliance’s Director of Football role.

“As a proud Cornishman and having been involved in Cornish football for over 50 years, I can honestly say that Kernow FA is the most exciting and innovative project I’ve ever been involved in.

“At Kernow FA we have tried and hopefully succeeded at not only showcasing our football on the world stage but also our history. We have been amazed at the support we have received from all over the world.

“After qualifying for the 2020 World Football Cup in North Macedonia we were inundated with requests about travel arrangements so people could come and support their national team.

“We like to think of Kernow FA as an inclusive family where everyone is welcome and everyone’s ideas are important. A massive thank you to everyone who has been involved and supported us. We couldn’t have done it without you.”

The team’s head coach, Darren Gilbert, who has enjoyed unbridled success with Cornwall’s Bodmin Town both as a player, captain and team boss, described it as an ‘honour to manage and represent Kernow FA’ while some of his team went further still.

“For me, Kernow FA has been really enjoyable and I have been really proud and honoured to have played and represent Cornwall,” says midfielder, Tallan Mitchell.

“I think it has shown that we have some really talented players and coaches in Cornwall and the support we have received in our first couple of games has been amazing. I for one can’t wait for more games and to see what the future has to offer for Kernow FA.”

Team-mate and top goalscorer, Mark Goldsworthy, added: “As a proud Cornishman, it has been an absolute honour to represent Kernow FA.

“To be a part of it from the very start and watch it grow has been amazing and I cannot wait to, hopefully, be involved well into the future and put Cornish football on the world map.”

Historic Return Match Chagos Islands set for

The beautiful game is returning from the Chagos Islands on July 21st, 2024, as the island nation prepares for a historic rematch against Kernow FA. This fixture holds immense significance for the Chagos team, who are still recovering from a crushing defeat in their last encounter in 2019.

The tides have turned for Chagos football. The team has transitioned from a diaspora-based outfit to a fullyfledged national representative side, granting them eligibility to compete in FIFA-sanctioned tournaments. This development paves the way for exciting possibilities, including the inaugural Celtic Nations Cup.

With Kernow FA maintaining their status as an international representative team, the success of this match could spark the creation of a coveted Celtic Nations Cup, featuring teams from Cornwall, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Isle of Man, and Brittany. This tournament would be a major boost for Celtic football, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and healthy competition.

The potential impact extends beyond the pitch. A strong showing by Cornwall could pave the way for Chagos’s inclusion in the Commonwealth Games, marking a significant milestone for the island’s sporting aspirations.

GLAMPING @ DARTMOOR DOMES

Escape to the rugged beauty of Dartmoor with a stay in one of our luxurious, insulated domes. Walk the moors and the Southwest Coast Path, swim and surf in the sea, cycle the Drakes trail, or simply sit by the stream and breath it all in.

Whatever your plans, Dartmoor Domes is the perfect location for an amazing holiday

SECLUDED LUXURY ECO GLAMPING

Set in our enclosed woodland meadow on the southern edge of Dartmoor, our insulated geodomes fuse nature with luxury. Each is furnished with a king-size bed featuring Emma’s award-winning mattress and comes with its own private shower, toilet, kitchen, bbq and fire pit and 2 have wood fired hot tubs

LUXURY DOMES

Our fully furnished domes come with a King size bed, futons or bunk beds for kids, torch, solar lighting and a wood burning stove.

PRIVATE BATHROOM

No luxury glamping experience would be complete without your own personal toilet, bathroom and shower, with eco friendly toiletries provided.

ECO KITCHEN

Each dome has its own Kitchen, equipped with LPG stove, cutlery, crockery, utensils, pans, kettle, tea pot, cafetière, bottle and can opener, and even a solar powered fridge.

A story of

Curiosity, Creativity & Courage

“I was a kid who loved art and grew up to become a professional soccer player and astronomer. Now I’m a kid again who loves art…” Soren Meibom

Born in Denmark, Soren Meibom’s passion for visual art was ignited at an early age, influenced by his artist father. This early exposure to the world of art saw him engaging in various forms of creative expression, including drawing, printing, sculpting, and painting. These formative years fostered a deep and enduring love for visual art, which would remain a constant in his life.

Parallel to his artistic development, Soren’s youth was dominated by his participation in elite-level soccer. From a young age, he demonstrated talent, athletic prowess, and a commitment to train hard to reach his full potential.

This combination led him to play for club teams, regional squads, and even youth national teams. His ambitions and dedication to soccer culminated in a seven-year stint as a semi-professional player while balancing the rigors of the sport with his growing academic pursuits.

Seamlessly blending his physical and intellectual talents, Soren attended the University of Copenhagen, where he earned a Master’s degree in physics and astronomy while playing for the Copenhagen club B93. Despite not having reached his full potential as a soccer player, at the age of 25, his growing interest in studying the cosmos led him to the difficult decision to retire from soccer to pursue graduate school and a Ph.D. in astrophysics in the United States. He served a year in the Royal Danish Air Force before leaving for the University of Wisconsin – Madison, marking the beginning of an illustrious career in science.

Soren’s doctoral studies laid the groundwork for a distinguished 14-year career at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics in Cambridge, Massachusetts. As an astrophysicist, he delved into the studies of the structure and evolution of single stars, double stars, and star clusters within the Milky Way galaxy. Further expanding and solidifying his standing in the field, he worked with NASA on space-telescope missions, such as Kepler and TESS, aimed at discovering and characterizing planets beyond our solar system. His contributions to stellar and exoplanet research were significant, including work on techniques to better determine stellar ages and the discovery of the first transiting exoplanets in star clusters. Soren’s research led to numerous peer-reviewed publications, including two first-author articles in the prestigious journal Nature. His ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible knowledge underscores his aptitude as an educator and public speaker.

Despite his achievements in soccer and science, Soren’s artistic spirit remained ever-present and only grew with time. In a move that showed his fearless adaptability and allowed him to fully explore and exercise his artistic curiosity and creativity, he transitioned from his role at the Harvard- Smithsonian to devote himself entirely to a career as a visual artist. The interplay between his artistic and scientific experiences soon led to the creation of his unique SciArt (science-art). This innovative approach to visual art merges his lifelong passions for art, science, and education. Soren’s SciArt reflects his scientific curiosity and his love for learning and conveying knowledge. The art is fuelled by curiosity-driven creativity that combines his desire for artistic expression with his appetite for understanding the world around him. His thoughtful and purposeful blend of scientific language with traditional visual art techniques creates a symbiosis and harmony that amplifies the artistic expression, making it richer and more captivating, and inviting the viewer deeper into the story the artwork is telling. With his SciArt, Soren hopes to fuel the curiosity of the observer and invite them to explore the artwork in a way that inspires their own joy of discovery and desire to learn.

Soren’s remarkable story is a testament to the power of curiosity, creativity, and the courage to follow one’s passions. His journey through the realms of soccer, science, and art exemplifies a multidisciplinary approach to life, inspiring others to pursue their interests across various fields. Soren continues to educate, inspire, and captivate audiences around the world with his unique vision and contributions.

“We each have two lives; the second one begins when we realize that we only have one.”

Confucius, 551 - 471 BC

Soccer is the world’s most popular sport. The game has won the hearts and minds of people across all continents and all cultures, bridging social, political, and economic barriers. It is being played in backyards, schoolyards, streets and stadiums by people of all ages and walks of life, and more than half the earth’s population watch every four years when the worlds best nations compete for the World Cup.

In his soccer SciArt project, the artists, scientist (astrophysicist, Ph.D.), and former semi-professional soccer player Soren Meibom, is combining his life long passions for soccer, art, science, and education to illuminate and communicate the complexity, beauty and drama that drives and maintains the unique popularity of the game of soccer. In a series of mixed media pieces, he portrays the beautiful game through the lenses of art and science, and explores and depict its historical, human, tactical, and scientific dimensions.

You can find SciArt telling stories about rowing, radiology, human evolution, and more on www.SorenMeibom.com, and purchase replica prints via www.SorenMeibom.shop. Soren’s original SciArt is available for exhibits worldwide. Write to art@SorenMeibom.com if you are interested in a SciArt exhibit. If you envision your home and work spaces enriched with SciArt telling your story, or stories about your organization’s or corporation’s purpose, impact, and goals, you can contact Soren about commissioning original SciArt at art@SorenMeibom.com

Does vanilla Buy to Let still work in this market?

Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock you will have seen a real change in the property scene over the last decade. Property investment is continuing to change and a lot of strategies are in the rise and becoming more and more popular.

With higher interest rates and property prices traditional buy to let is just not giving the best returns to the concerning landlord. Many landlords have additional properties in their own name and are being clobbered by the section 24 tax. In simple terms, Section 24 removes a landlord’s right to deduct mortgage interest and other finance costs (such as mortgage arrangement fees) from their rental income before calculating their tax liability.

Most rental yields in the South West of England are around 4-6 % which is not a great deal as due to inflation and the cost of living crisis - you can get better returns from the bank!

Having helped and advised property investors for the last two decades on their purchases and strategies we are opening up some of our best kept hacks and secrets to give you the best return for your money.

Weighing up the balance between risk and reward - time and freedom and where to place your hard earned cash is at the forefront of most of our minds.

See below a brief insight into some of the strategies that we are applying for ourselves and our clients.

If you are interested in finding out about your property and the opportunities for it or are looking to optimise your income through property investment we are here to help !

RENT TO RENT, HMOS, AND LAND ACQUISITION: EXPANDING YOUR PROPERTY PORTFOLIO

This article, co-authored by Jo Lines and Cristina Axford of Search Property Group Ltd, explores three investment opportunities for property developers and landlords: rent to rent, HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation), and land acquisition.

RENT TO RENT: A WIN-WIN FOR LANDLORDS AND MANAGERS

Rent to rent involves a management lease for a property from a landlord and letting it to tenants on a short-term basis (serviced accommodation) or individual room ASTs for HMO. This arrangement offers guaranteed rent to landlords with no hassle, void periods or minor maintenance and tenant issues. Whilst the R2R manager is able to control the property using the strategy to earn additional income from the property without owning it.

HMOS: MAXIMISING RENTAL INCOME

HMOs are properties shared by multiple unrelated tenants. By converting a suitable property into an HMO, investors can increase their rental yield in some cases 3 fold compared to a single tenancy.

LAND ACQUISITION: INVESTING IN FUTURE DEVELOPMENT

Purchasing land for property development allows investors to capitalise on future growth potential. Search Property Group Ltd can assist with feasibility studies and planning permission to ensure a smooth development process.

CONCLUSION

These three property investment options offer a variety of benefits for both experienced developers and those of you looking to enter the market. By understanding the risks and rewards of each approach, investors can make informed decisions to grow their property portfolios. We are offering a free no obligation chat to see what could work for you .

Get in touch

At a level to suit all budgets. Check out our website www.searchhomes.co.uk

We pride ourselves on giving a really great experience

Historic Charm in the Heart of Woodbridge

Explore the Elegant 18th-Century Property with a Stunning Walled Garden and Versatile Outbuilding, Perfect for Living and Working.

Believed to date to the late 18th century, and once home to Stephensons the printers and stationers, 53 Thoroughfare is an historic, terraced property found in the heart of the popular riverside town of Woodbridge. With a wood-framed shop frontage, first floor sash windows above and a segmental arched side passage to the front, and rear elevations of red brick and render, the property offers spacious accommodation arranged over three floors with a stunning walled garden leading away from the house.

Entering from The Thoroughfare, the hall leads through to the sitting room with terracotta tiled floor, feature fireplace and French doors opening to the rear terrace. Adjoining this through a linking archway is the kitchen; with built-in cabinetry, tiled work surfaces and some integrated appliances, as well as a glazed door also opening to the garden.

On the first floor, there is a spacious landing which gives access to two bedrooms, the principal having access to an en suite shower room, and a family bathroom. An upstairs sitting room with decorative fireplace could also be utilised as a further bedroom. To the second floor is a further double bedroom with impressive views over rooftops towards St John’s Church.

Local Authority: East Suffolk District Council.

Services: All mains services are connected. Council Tax: Band D

Rights of Way: The property is being sold subject to and with the benefit of all rights including rights of way, whether public or private, light, support, drainage, water and electricity supplies and other rights and obligations, easements and quasi-easements and restrictive covenants and all existing and proposed wayleaves, whether masts, pylons, stays, cables, drains, and gas and other pipes, whether referred to in these particulars or not.

The rear garden is a hidden gem; beautifully designed and well-maintained with a gravelled terrace to the rear of the property bordered by a low-brick wall and a raised bed edged with manicured evergreen bushes to one side, and a decorative wall structure with slate roof featuring three inset areas for seating to the other. Steps lead up to an area of lawn with beautifully pleached Magnolia trees to one wall. A path leads to a door with a secure gravelled area beyond, offering a generous space for parking and access to the outbuilding.

Approached via Little St John Street, to the rear is a barn-style, part-weather boarded detached outbuilding. With electric garage door to the road side, the ground floor offers a covered parking area with useful cloakroom. A stairway leads up to a versatile office/studio space, featuring a timber-clad ceiling with exposed beams and skylight windows. Subject to the necessary consents, this space could be converted to ancillary accommodation or a holiday let.

Found in a prominent position along The Thoroughfare, the front of the property also comprises a self-contained shop with cellar beneath providing storage and a cloakroom; the whole space offering a purchaser a potential income stream or ideal space to work from home. The property was tenanted until July 2023, but is now being sold with vacant possession. The previous tenant was paying £7,992 per annum.

Located on the fringes of the Suffolk Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the vibrant market town of Woodbridge offers an excellent array of day-to-day amenities including a wide range of independent and High Street shops, boutiques, galleries, banks, library, restaurants, hotels, public houses and GP surgeries together with leisure facilities including a museum, cinema and theatre, skate park, sports centre, swimming pool, golf course and marina. Both Elmhurst Park and the River Deben are close by, both of which offer ideal space for walking and relaxing.

The surrounding Deben Valley provides further recreational facilities; countless walks, forest trails, bridleways, sailing and river rowing, and excellent golf courses at Ufford, Aldeburgh and Thorpeness. There are a number of excellent local schools in both the state and independent sectors. Communications links are excellent: the nearby A12 offers easy access to the A14 and national motorway network as well as to Ipswich and the Suffolk Heritage Coast, including the seaside towns of Aldeburgh, Southwold and Thorpeness. A regular train service runs from the town’s station to Ipswich, with onward connections to London Liverpool Street.

Woodbridge railway station 0.6 miles, Ipswich 9.2 miles, Ipswich railway station (London Liverpool Street from 65 minutes), 10.5 miles, Aldeburgh 15.7 miles, Southwold 27 miles.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

Tel: 01752 270 413 - Email:: hello@searchhomes.co.uk www.searchhomes.co.uk

Flipping Success

How Mark Akerman transformed a victorian terrace and boosted his property portfolio

Written by Alex Daley

Dive into the Details of a Stunning Property Flip Featured on Homes Under the Hammer, Including Costs, Challenges, and Triumphs.

Flippin heck, another article on Property flips, for this one though, the eagle-eyed amongst you might have seen featured somewhere else. On a little show, some of you will have heard of, none other than Homes Under the Hammer.

We sat down with Mark Akerman who has just completed a quick flip, turning a dated Victorian terrace house into a TV-worth property to be proud of. Our objective was to get down to the real nitty gritty, not hide from any numberseven down to how much he spent on carpets! Grab a coffee (or a glass of wine, depending on what time it is when you’re reading this) and let’s dive in.

So Mark, tell us about your background and getting into property: I’ve been involved in property now full-time for the last couple of years, but my love of property stems back probably 30 years when I bought a property with my cousin. We had a small garage business, we took some money, and bought the house. It was a back of a fag packet job for the working it out. We borrowed some money, made a success of it, and I wanted to proceed with more but unfortunately, he didn’t want to so that was put to bed. Many years later the wife and I bought a couple of properties as investments. I was then in my 40s but we didn’t understand about adding value and refinancing. We also bought a typical Victorian down near the dockyard two-bedroom property, which we did actually make into three bedrooms because we thought it would rent little better. But didn’t think about the value again, didn’t refinance and I just didn’t know about refinance and I was just busy with my car parts business at the time.

My passion though was property and I was trying to find a way how I could spend more time with property... About three years ago, we started some property education. We found Progressive and then I found all the others. And I thought “Wow this is another world” for someone that had already been interested in property, but never understood the mechanics of it, it was fascinating. So I spent a lot of time researching and driving from Plymouth to Peterborough, which is not the nicest of places to get to from Plymouth, spent a lot of time and money on an education mindset and just going through every strategy.

Mark estimates over the years he’s probably spent in excess of £25,000 on education and mentoring.

When I realised you could earn money from properties you didn’t own, it was just incredible. I learnt about refinancing and the BRRR method. And the sort of penny dropped and I thought how foolish I’d been not to educate myself the first time, but like we say, you don’t know what you don’t know.

Mark admitted that prior to getting educated, he was much more of a hobby landlord, getting through it with no real direction or seriousness.

OK, so it sounds like once you got educated, you took things to another level. Tell us about the flip project then:

So it was a Victorian terrace house, quite large, 112m². A lot of them in the area, when I was doing comparables for pricing and checking EPCs were about 80-90m². So it was spacious but didn’t look much from the outside, but as soon as you walked in it was like a Tardis... It was very very tired. Everything needed a full refurb. So we did the whole thing, and our intention, just like our garage business, was to do the best possible job. Even if that’s detrimental to profit, I’d rather earn less money and do a spanking job and produce a really good product, so we didn’t want to cut corners.

Let’s talk numbers, what was your purchase price?

What did you expect the end value to be?

How did you get there?

That kind of stuff, you know we all want to hear.

The purchase price was £130,000 and we expected the end valuation to be £200,000. We borrowed this money, it was private finance, so making a mistake, tripping up, was not an option so I had to make sure we were accurate. So I underestimated. I underestimated the cost of the refurb actually, but thankfully, I’d underestimated the ceiling price as well. We superseded that ceiling price of £200,000. Beginners luck, wind behind us maybe, but we were able to absorb the extra cost of the refurb. It was difficult doing the comparables, as you weren’t comparing apples with apples (due to the size difference on this property). So I thought it’s potentially worth a little bit more but not too much more than the others on the street. I worked out the pricing myself. That’s the glory of knowing your area, I’ve lived here in Plymouth all my life, I know the areas, the good the bad, and the ugly, I was pretty certain we’d reach at least £200,000 on the property.

We had to make sure the quality was right, by making sure that equality was good, I knew we’d have an exit. One thing that frightened me was that I knew, if we didn’t do this properly, we might not be able to sell it. And selling was the exit. We borrowed the money for 12 months. Yes, we could have refinanced it, but we set out to flip a property and that’s what we wanted to do.

NUMBERS:

So you talk about quality a lot, obviously, we know what that means for the big things, but what does that mean to you for the little things?

Once we had stripped the property out and were putting it back together, yes we could have kept some of the doors and some of the furniture. But we looked at things like the light switches and sockets, they were all different.

How much does it cost to have them all uniform?

A few quid each. Yes, it all adds up, but the quality adds up too. Again, I’d rather have made less money but done a terrific job. But equally, I knew, with the quality, we would have an exit

So the actual project, was it smooth? How long did it take?

It took 8 weeks and 2 days, which was mainly Monday-Friday, with some weekends but we didn’t want to upset the neighbours. When we do a project we tend to knock on either side of a terrace house and speak with the neighbours. They were pleased for us to be there and actually, I was able to help one of the neighbours as I spotted some water penetration from a gutter.

Honestly, we had no problems from the minute we bought it to the minute we sold it. I only thought the conveyancing when selling it could have been done quicker, we just wanted to get in and get out. The refurb I was trying to keep within 7 weeks, but 8 weeks, we’ll take. If the next flip is 8 weeks, we’ll be quite pleased. It’s all in the planning. I would go first thing in the morning, look at what had been done the previous day, make notes, and look at what was being done that day. I’d also go when I knew no one was there, and take my photos and videos. We have a good relationship with all of the trades we use, we already knew them and knew they were reliable. I wanted to manage the property myself and be in control. We’re controlling our own destiny and it’s only us that can mess it up. So plenty of planning, checking on progress, and making sure the order of works was right and that we weren’t doing things we might have to undo. Like plastering then having to chase in wires. Step by step, taking it easy, analysing everything. This is my fulltime job, I live and breathe it, so I was able to get down a few times a day.

It’s all about planning and then being on-site, as opposed to making mistakes and not realising for a few days because you’ve not been on site for a week. And of course, making sure quality was right along the way.

Bonus tip:

-If there’s subsidence/movement in the property, it can be really apparent with the doors on, for instance, the door may not close if it has dropped. So some people will take doors off to mask the fact the house has moved. That’s a great tip to take.

Tell me about homes under the hammer, I imagine that was a cool experience, how was it?

The first one they record the minute you get the keys, they want you to leave it as it is which lost us a week, so they could film. Being in front of a camera isn’t really my thing, but I quickly reminded myself it would be a great opportunity to tell people we’re looking for and working with investors. If I don’t tell people what we do, it’s unlikely we’ll raise more finance.

It was an amazing experience, I really enjoyed it. I did a long weekend of back-to-back homes under the hammer watching to suss out what the format was. They came down, super professional and reliable and kept in touch throughout the weeks. One thing I said to them was that I didn’t want to jeopardise a sale by it airing before we sold.

I didn’t realise but you get paid £200 per episode you participate in, I didn’t expect it, so what we decided to do and we’ve done it again with the second one, is to donate it to a local children’s hospice. I thought that was a nice thing to do.

OK Mark, I want you to be brutally honest here, did you focus on quality more because you were on homes under the hammer and didn’t want to get slated by your neighbours and everyone?

Not at all, we had to do a good job, I didn’t want to let the investor down, that wasn’t an option. If we let them down, how would we raise more money?

The pressure was already on, regardless of the TV program. We try to run the property business like the garage business, cutting corners isn’t an option even though the TV cameras were there.

You’ve already got the numbers that everyone always gives, why don’t we go a layer deeper and actually deep dive into the renovation? Because who doesn’t like being extra nosey?

Plastering: £4000

Rendering: £1994

+Scaffolding: £1000 = £2994

Kitchen units: £2836.46

+Kitchen install: £1200 = £4036.46

Carpets & Flooring: £2975.98

Plumbing: £5985

Rip out: £720

+Waste removal: £1410 = £2130

Painting interior: £3840

+Painting exterior: £1104 = £4944

Carpenter: £1702

+Skirting board: £124.08

+Internal doors: £475 = £2301.08

Electrics: £1740

Bathroom materials: £1461.79

Gas & electric: £338.73

General labour: £7100

Extras: £3668.96

Total: £43,676

It was great to catch up with Mark and hear about his first venture into flips. Since selling this one he’s been straight back out and bought another one at auction. Perhaps we’ll have a second interview to hear how that goes?

mark.akerman@sky.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mark-akerman-8634a3191

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.akerman.96199

Look no further than Artisan Furniture Expertly craftedcarefully made. We have a fantastic range of artisan handmade furniture to suit any taste and style. So come and take a look today and find the perfect piece for your home.

Discover the Charm of

Cornwall at Sunrise

Imagine waking up to the breathtaking sunrise over the coast of Cornwall. Here at Sunrise, our beautifully refurbished 6-bedroom home nestled in the heart of West Looe offers the perfect escape for your family getaway.

This spacious retreat combines luxury and comfort, providing all the modern amenities you need for a relaxing stay, including essentials, a washing machine, free Wi-Fi, and a fully equipped kitchen.

Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of coastal living and create unforgettable memories in this exquisite home. Visit www,searchhomes.co.uk to learn more.

Looe, a charming fishing town split in two by the River Looe, offers a delightful escape to Cornwall’s south coast. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, exploration of historical sites, or adventures amidst nature, Looe has something for everyone.

Here’s a glimpse into what awaits you in Looe:

• Soak up the sun on idyllic beaches: Bask in the golden rays on Looe’s two main beaches, East Looe and West Looe, both perfect for families. Explore the rock pools at low tide or try your hand at kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.

• Explore Looe Island: Accessible by a short ferry ride, Looe Island is a haven for nature lovers. This 22-acre tidal island boasts a rich variety of wildlife and stunning coastal scenery.

• Delve into local history: Learn about Looe’s maritime heritage at the Looe Harbour Heritage Centre, housed in a former sardine factory. Discover the town’s intriguing past at the Old Guildhall Museum & Gaol.

• Encounter fascinating creatures: The Monkey Sanctuary, a haven for rescued monkeys, is a must-visit for animal lovers. Explore the vast Trenant Woods, a haven for diverse wildlife.

• Embark on a coastal walk: Lace up your walking shoes and take the scenic Looe to Polperro walk, offering breathtaking coastal vistas. Explore the charming village of Polperro with its narrow streets and traditional Cornish cottages.

Beyond these, Looe offers a plethora of activities, from indulging in delicious fresh seafood to browsing through local shops and galleries. With its captivating charm and plethora of experiences, Looe promises an unforgettable Cornish escape.

Revolutionising Home Interiors

Cornflower Kitchens & Bathrooms: From Initial Survey to Stunning Finish in Devon and Cornwall

Cornflower Kitchens & Bathrooms, based in Plymouth and covering all of Devon and Cornwall, was founded by Daniel Sealey, a former Engineer and installer with over 20 years of installation, renovation and home improvement expertise. Like many installation companies he started by fitting kitchens and bathrooms from the big retailers, but seeing all the pitfalls and issues consumers experience all too frequently when using these companies, Dan wanted something better for his customers, so Cornflower Kitchens & Bathrooms was born.

Wanting to provide the highest quality products, with a seamlessly professional and stress free personal service from an initial survey and design to the completed installation, Cornflower Kitchens & Bathrooms fill a gap in the local market for consumers to get a fully ‘in-house’ service with all elements controlled by one company at all times which allows them to give a complete personal service. Cornflower also work with carefully selected specialists to offer everything you need, including flooring, lighting, electrics, decoration and even building works to create a stunning space with an enduring WOW! factor.

Daniel firmly believes that “Good design is the key to a happy home which feels serene and shaped around you. Kitchens and Bathrooms are some of the most frequently used parts of your home, so it is vital that they are well thought out and designed with you in mind.”

Cornflower start with a personal design survey at your home, mapping the space, showing you samples and thoroughly understanding how you use the room. Once they have all of those details their designers go to work and you will be presented with a detailed proposal within 72 hours. From there they book another design session to go through every detail and hone the design to fit you perfectly.

Cornflower understand that these are big decisions and as part of their aim to give you a stress free service they won’t hassle you into rushing the process, it must be right!

Their stunning kitchen ranges include everything from traditional and contemporary Shaker designs, to integrated handle and slab doors in gloss or matt, plus solid oak and paint to order ranges in any colour you can dream of. Cabinet interiors can be white, ivory, light grey, dust grey or oak, have a 2mm thick PVC front edge to protect from knocks and moisture and are the most durable on the market. Quality is at the heart of every detail and they are built to last, so are also very well suited to harsh environments like rentals and shared houses.

The impressive bathroom ranges offer a broad selection of contemporary and classic furniture and quality fittings to delight.

Cornflower’s kitchens come with a 10 year, and bathrooms a 5 year manufacturer’s guarantee. Cornflower also guarantee their workmanship for 3 years and all of their contracts are covered by an insurance backed deposit and warranty insurance from HIP, to give total peace of mind. Visit www.cornflower-kitchens.co.uk

Expand Your Network

Join

Your

Partnerships’ Networking Events Across Devon and Cornwall to Connect with Industry Professionals and Grow Your Business.

In the Property sector, it’s all about who you know, and who they know, and at Your Partnerships, we know that. That’s why we hold five property-industry-specific events across Devon and Cornwall, that are full of exactly the kind of people you need to grow and develop your business.

The events are branded ‘Property, Investment, Construction and Trade’, and everyone you’d expect to find under those umbrellas will be there. We have tried to find a catchier name for them, but this has stuck, because it covers everyone we want to welcome! You’ll also find people there whose businesses can service the property industry –accountants specialising in construction, credit control agencies, web designers, finance and lenders, photographers and drone operators, mental health practitioners – all those useful people that you need to help keep your business’s wheels turning, and customers coming through your door.

WHERE CAN I FIND THEM?

There are currently five Property, Investment, Construction and Trade groups, that take place on a fixed day in the month. Each is hosted by a different Ambassador, someone who operates in the industry, and whose role includes making new folks welcome, and building connections.

• Mid Cornwall, Victoria Inn, Roche, 3rd Monday of the month, hosted by Dave Pepperell

• Newton Abbott, Dainton Park Golf Club, Ipplepen, 3rd Tuesday of the month, hosted by Vinny Chalk

• Plymouth, Boringdon Golf Club, 4th Monday of the month, hosted by Judith Stokes

• Exeter, Exeter Court Hotel, Kennford, 4th Wednesday of the month, hosted by Kevin & Sally Cope

• West Cornwall, Brewers Fayre, Logans Moor, Hayle, 4th Friday of the month, hosted by Dave Pepperell.

CAN I JUST COME ALONG?

Booking and payment for all these events is on the Your Partnerships website, at www.yourpartnerships.co.uk, under Events. Some events pause during August, or if someone carelessly drops a Bank Holiday on that day, so it’s worth checking.

These events are free for Members of Your Partnerships, plus the cost of any catering – the fried breakfasts are outstanding at these venues, but ordering just a coffee is perfectly acceptable. Non members can come along for £15, plus catering, however, Your Partnerships offers a free 30-day trial membership. With this, you can attend any YP meetings, in person or online, before deciding whether you want to join. Regular membership is just £25+VAT per month.

WHAT IS YOUR PARTNERSHIPS?

Founded in 2015, Your Partnerships was set up in Cornwall by Brock. He’s retired US Navy and just held a handful of events per month in Cornwall, to support local businesses. However, since then YP has grown, and now covers 10 counties, with over 80 in person events per month and 10 online, plus links to other online networking organisations offering up to a hundred events, with international reach. The core of YP is the people – helping and supporting people to build their businesses, by connecting them to others. If you want to be part of this, you’re very welcome to attend a Property, Investment, Construction and Trade event, or any other, and see who you could meet!

www.yourpartnerships.co.uk

Edleigh Construction Transforming Spaces into homes

Who are we

We are a family-owned construction firm located in Newton Abbot, Devon, with a strong commitment to delivering topnotch services to our clients. Our team is devoted to ensuring that each project we handle meets the highest standards of quality and safety.

In the past 8 years, our business has grown naturally through satisfied customers, word of mouth, and our recent affiliation with the Federation of Master Builders. This growth has allowed us to collaborate with like-minded individuals, enhancing the range of services we provide.

Thanks to this growth, we can offer you a unique service where we coordinate all the trades for a project so you don’t have to. Just provide us with the plans, and we will take care of the rest.

About us

Since leaving the Royal Marines, Alex has pursued a career as a self-employed Carpenter, with a talent for large projects and a passion for creating homes that people adore.

Victoria, our other director, brings over 20 years of experience in customer service, quality, business, and finance. With a diverse career background, she adds drive and customer focus to our business.

Areas of work: TQ, PL & EX Services - Conversions, Refurbs & Extensions.

The Cornerstone of Trust in

Construction

Why Trading Standards Approved Traders Matter

Building Trust in Construction:

The Value of Trading Standards Approved Traders

In construction, forming successful partnerships is key to smooth project execution. Reliability is crucial in these partnerships, as using dependable traders directly affects the quality, timing and success of any project.

Reliable traders bring a wealth of benefits to the table. Firstly, they ensure that the materials used in construction are of the highest quality. Substandard materials can lead to structural weaknesses, safety hazards, and long-term maintenance issues, all of which can derail a project. Trustworthy suppliers adhere to stringent quality standards, providing materials that meet or exceed industry specifications.

Secondly, dependable traders are punctual. In the construction industry, time is of the essence. Delays can lead to cost overruns, missed deadlines and strained relationships with clients. Traders who are committed to punctuality help keep projects on track, ensuring that all phases of construction proceed smoothly and according to schedule.

Moreover, trustworthy traders are transparent in their dealings. Transparency fosters trust, a vital component of any successful partnership. Reliable traders provide clear, honest quotes and are upfront about potential issues and costs. This openness allows for accurate budgeting and planning, minimising the risk of unexpected expenses and disputes down the line.

Given the critical role that reliable traders play in construction, finding the right partners is paramount. This is where Buy With Confidence Trading Standards approved businesses come into the picture. Buy With Confidence (www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk) is a scheme run by local authority Trading Standards Services, designed to help consumers find trustworthy businesses.

The scheme’s rigorous vetting process sets it apart. Businesses approved by Buy With Confidence undergo thorough checks by Trading Standards professionals. This includes verifying the business’s legal compliance, checking customer references, and ensuring that the company’s trading practices are fair and honest. Only those that meet these high standards are approved, providing peace of mind to anyone looking for reliable traders.

Using Buy With Confidence has several advantages. First, it saves time. The vetting process eliminates the need for extensive background checks, allowing you to quickly identify businesses that have already been validated by Trading Standards.

Second, it reduces risk. By choosing traders who have been approved by Buy With Confidence, you minimise the chances of encountering fraudulent or unscrupulous businesses. The scheme’s stringent criteria ensure that only reputable traders make the cut, safeguarding your project against potential pitfalls.

Finally, it promotes accountability. Buy With Confidence businesses are monitored on an ongoing basis to ensure they maintain the high standards required for approval. This continuous oversight means that traders are not just reliable at the outset but remain so throughout their involvement in your project.

In conclusion, for future partnerships, don’t forget where to start your search. Buy With Confidence Trading Standards approved businesses provide a robust starting point for finding such traders. Their rigorous vetting process, time-saving benefits, risk reduction and commitment to accountability make them an ideal choice for anyone seeking dependable partners in the construction industry. Begin your search with Trading Standards Approved businesses and construct your project on a bedrock of trust and reliability.

Revolutionising Networking PBN’s ApproachDynamic

Join PBN’s Innovative Networking Events and Unlock New Opportunities in Business and Property

PBN is a vibrant and open networking event that brings together business owners, property investors, and others in a stimulating environment designed to enhance connection, collaboration, and enjoyment - all at no cost!

Join hundreds of dynamic individuals at our monthly events across Exeter, Plymouth, Bristol, Liverpool, and the Wirral. Discover your nearest event and take the next step in expanding your network by visiting www.thepbn.co.uk

Our mission is to create a space that brings together diverse entrepreneurs, property professionals and business people to network, share ideas and enable collaboration.

Our vision is to transform networking for the property and business space by providing a dynamic and collaborative solution that redefines traditional perceptions. We aim to build local communities throughout the UK, become the home of business and property networking, and turn networking into a passion rather than a chore.

PBN’s values are:

• Inclusivity - We bring together people of all levels, industries, and backgrounds in a welcoming environment.

• Innovation - We seek out new and creative ways of doing things to better serve our community.

Integrity - We are authentic in our services to others and prioritise respect for the individuals and communities.

• Inspiration - We provide a space to inspire our community to take the next step!

PBN’s principles are:

• Community First

• All about creating win-wins

Mega value

• No hard selling

THE EXETER TEAM

Our mission was to craft an event so bustling with energy and people, that it’s impossible to meet everyone in just one session. To expect a room filled with diversity, to ensure you encounter someone new every time.

PBN was conceived from our desire to host the ideal networking event: free admission, a massive and varied crowd, no interruptions with sales pitches or speeches, and a focus purely on what we love most - networking.

Welcome to PBN, where each event is an opportunity to thrive amidst likeminded professionals and budding entrepreneurs.

Lee Horwood is one of the PBN hosts who is supporting both Exeter and Plymouth, whilst working with the wider team to create a blueprint that can be scaled across the UK. He is a co-founder of a property business, Property Virtu, which aims to fuse together innovation, creative thinking and the brightest minds to set the standard for high quality shared living in the Southwest.

Lewis Cosway, an avid networker, a key personnel in setting up PBN, with the aim to connect people across the Southwest. The business partner of Lee at Property Virtu, they are investing and creating high-end HMOs in the Plymouth area. Their plan is to use their technology background to bring the property industry forward!

Ben Law is a veteran of the Armed Forces, who now lives on a smallholding in Devon. He spent 12 years serving as a Royal Marines’ Officer, deploying around the globe. Ben is now a Leadership and Change Management Consultant for AtkinsRealis. When not focused on the day job, he invests in other businesses as well as building their own property portfolio and investments across alternate asset classes.

Jennifer Law, married to Ben, is an entrepreneur at heart and a keen trail runner and equestrian. She is a passionate self builder and property investor. She also helps entrepreneurs to earn whilst traveling the world, allowing them to create an additional income stream from anywhere.

THE PLYMOUTH TEAM

PBN Plymouth was born from a throwaway remark. Ildikó, buzzing from attending for the first time in October 2023, thanked Lee on the way out, commenting “What a shame we don’t have one of these events in Plymouth!”. Another attendee remarked: “Why don’t you hold your own networking event?”

As they say, the rest is history. This little comment got the cogs turning. Fired up, next time she approached the hosting team and asked: “Have you thought about holding this event in Plymouth?” To the answer “Yes”, she exclaimed: “I will do it!”. To their advice she quickly recruited Jessica Covill and Joshua Chauhan from the room and returned to the hosts: “I have a team”.

Learning from great teachers, Ildikó put in practice the importance of noticing an opportunity AND taking action, to achieve great results. Credit to everyone’s love for the PBN events, the support from the Exeter Team and the enthusiasm of the new Plymouth Team, PBN Plymouth launched in March 2024. The organisers bring their passion for business and property, upbeat energy and fantastic network of local entrepreneurs to PBN Plymouth. “It was an easy YES to be a part of PBN. The vibe and buzz created at each occasion makes these networking events fun. It’s never a chore to attend!” - says Jessica.

As a Partner and the head of the Corporate and Commercial Law team at Plymouth-based law firm and main sponsor of PBN Plymouth, Wolferstans, Joshua Chauhan works with a wide-ranging network of property and business professionals in the South West. Beyond the technical nature of being a business lawyer Josh loves having the opportunity to work with clients as their businesses grow. Drawn to PBN as an exciting forum to meet other like-minded business professionals and property investors, and a born and bred Plymothian keen to raise the profile of the Plymouth business community, Josh was excited to be a part of bringing such a dynamic, inspiring networking event to a new audience in Plymouth.

In true entrepreneurial spirit Jessica Covill runs multiple businesses in Plymouth, with her husband Steven. Their successful business are Mobile Carpets & Flooring SW Ltd, an ever expanding investment property portfolio, and her online business consultancy. She brings positivity to the network and thrives on creating new connections. “Business is about people and we are delighted that PBN Plymouth creates a fun space, bringing people together, creating exciting new connections and business opportunities in the city.

Ildikó Sealey, a property investor in Plymouth, works together with her husband at Cosy Oak Ltd. They specialise in bringing unloved properties back to life, so they can provide future proofed, modern, comfortable homes for people to live in. Having done full refurbishments on family homes, they are now building a high-end HMO portfolio in Plymouth to house working professionals. In addition to hosting PBN Plymouth for the love of it, Ildikó is also starting a group for people setting up a new business later in life (50+) to share support with each other to overcome the challenges this brings.

Be a part of this thriving business community in the South West!

GREAT GIFT IDEAS FOR HIM AND HER

Gallery 53 Gifts is a well-known and established Gift and jewellery shop located in the heart of Ivybridge, Devon and Saltash, Cornwall.

Established in 1983, this family-owned business has been providing customers with the finest gold, silver, and costume jewellery, gifts for men and women, anniversaries, birthdays, Christenings & Weddings for almost four decades.

Owner Michelle Northmoore has been the driving force behind the business’s success, and her dedication to quality, service, and value has made Gallery 53 Gifts a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

EXTENSIVE RANGE OF UNIQUE, PERSONALISED GIFTS TO SUIT EVERY OCCASION SUCH AS BIRTHDAYS, ANNIVERSARIES, AND WEDDINGS.

41A Fore St, Ivybridge PL21 9AE

Phone: 01752 894569

Email: info@gallery53gifts.co.uk

121 Fore Street Saltash Cornwall PL12 6AB

Phone: 01752 965298

Email: info@gallery53gifts.co.uk

Unwind and Explore Your Ultimate Beach

Getaway in Cornwall

Introduction:

Are you dreaming of a memorable holiday by the beach, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, endless activities, and vibrant music festivals? Look no further than Beach House Haven, located on the Haven holiday park in Perran Sands, Cornwall. With its beautiful beaches, a wide range of activities, convenient access to nearby attractions, and exciting music festivals, this is the ideal destination for your next holiday. Let’s dive into the exciting activities, benefits, and music festival experiences that await you from March to October 2024.

1. Beautiful Beaches:

Imagine strolling along golden sands, feeling the gentle sea breeze on your face, and listening to the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore. Beach House Haven offers access to some of the most breathtaking beaches in Cornwall. Whether you’re looking to relax, build sandcastles with your family, or take a refreshing dip in the sea, these beautiful beaches have something for everyone.

2. Endless Activities:

At Beach House Haven, there’s never a dull moment. From thrilling water sports to family-friendly entertainment, you’ll find activities to suit every taste. Enjoy a game of beach volleyball, try your hand at surfing, or explore the coastline on a kayak. If you prefer land-based activities, take advantage of the park’s facilities, including swimming pools, adventure golf, and sports courts. You’ll be spoilt for choice!

3. Brand New 3-Bedroom

Silver Rated Static Caravan:

Your comfort is our priority. Stay in our brand new 3-bedroom Silver rated static caravan, which comfortably sleeps up to 8 people. With spacious living areas, modern amenities, and a fully equipped kitchen, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Unwind on the private decking area, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee or evening drinks with your loved ones.

Parking and Park Leisure Passes Included:

To make your stay even more convenient, we provide complimentary parking and park leisure passes. Explore the park’s facilities and participate in various activities without any additional charges. From swimming pools and live entertainment to kids’ clubs and evening shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

5. Music Festivals:

In addition to the beachside bliss, Cornwall is known for its vibrant music festivals. During your stay at Beach House Haven, you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Tunes in the Dunes (https:// tunesinthedunes.co.uk/lineup/) and Boardmasters (https://boardmasters.com/). These festivals showcase a diverse lineup of talented artists, offering unforgettable performances and a chance to dance the night away under the stars.

6. Day Trips to Neighbouring Towns:

While Beach House Haven offers an abundance of activities, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the charming neighbouring towns. Take a day trip to Newquay, known for its vibrant surf culture, stunning coastal walks, and lively town center. Discover local

The future of the construction industry is

WILD!

The UK has lost 7.5 million acres of wildflower meadow and flower-rich grassland since the 1930s according to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kew. And in my experience, the UK may have a lot of farmland and hedgerows, but I’ve very rarely happened upon a wildflower meadow by chance.

At first glance, the idea of construction companies championing the cause of wildflower meadowlands may seem paradoxical. After all, the construction industry is often associated with lifeless housing and commercial estates, not with the delicate beauty of wildflower-strewn landscapes.

The removal of life to make way for homes seems a little non-sensical when it’s ill-considered. At #nature1 we want to raise awareness of the micro-biotic life and it’s part in the visual eco system, buildings have to go up for sure but we believe that a healthy eco system adds value during construction and when habitable.

Research has shown that the people who make up the work force are predominantly conscientious trades, craftsmen and seasoned professionals with nature and it’s wellbeing never far from the site conversation. Sewing wildflower meadowland makes people feel better and makes use of dead space.

Already building contractors, developers architects, farmers are joining forces in a bid to regenerate 3% of wildflower meadowland in the next three years; that would be 225,000 acres of natural habitat back all grown around new human habitation. We would then like to petition Westminster in trying to make mandate to a least sow 1m2 for every 80m2 of building. This would cost £3. With the ROI of immeasurability, this has to be the right investment in our future generations!!

Consider for a moment the vast tracts of land that lay barren and forgotten in the wake of development projects. These are the forgotten spaces, neglected and abandoned, waiting for a purpose beyond their current state of disrepair. Could they not be transformed into vibrant wildflower meadowlands, teeming with life and biodiversity? With the expertise in land management and site preparation at their disposal, construction companies possess the means to breathe new life into these forgotten landscapes.

Furthermore, the concept of green infrastructure presents a compelling opportunity for the marriage of construction and conservation efforts. By integrating wildflower meadowlands into urban development projects, construction firms can create havens of biodiversity amidst the concrete. Not only do these green spaces provide valuable habitats for native flora and fauna, but they also offer tangible benefits to urban residents, such as improved air quality, enhanced aesthetics, and opportunities for recreation and relaxation for those that reside there.

Yet, the potential of the construction industry to champion the cause of wildflower meadowlands extends beyond mere physical transformation. It is also about fostering a paradigm shift in our collective consciousness, challenging the prevailing narrative of progress at any cost. It is about recognising the intrinsic value of nature and the irreplaceable beauty of wildflower meadowlands, and striving to protect and preserve them for future generations to cherish.

In this sense, the future of wildflower meadowlands may indeed lie in the hands of the construction industry, but it is a future that demands a radical reimagining of our relationship with the natural world. It requires us to move beyond the confines of conventional thinking and embrace a more holistic approach to development, one that prioritises sustainability, biodiversity, and the preservation of our precious ecosystems. Many building firms have embraced this way of thinking already.

Let’s dare to envision a future where progress and preservation coexist harmoniously, where concrete and the floral converge in a tapestry of sustainable development and ecological stewardship.

Looking out onto a wildflower meadow in full bloom is not only visually stimulating, but it makes us feel fantastic too! The colours can make us feel inspired, whilst the wildness can make us feel free. This combination of providing stunning views when the flowers are in bloom and lifting our mood, means that many of us can benefit from planting our own wildflower meadow.

Growing your wildflower meadow can really help you get physically and mentally fit. Gardening and growing wildflowers is a great form of exercise, especially if hand sowing, weeding and cutting. This can also help increase your happy hormones, endorphins, making you feel more positive, confident and energetic. Being in and around nature is also known to reduce anxiety, stress and depression by inducing feelings of relaxation and calm. Growing a wildflower meadow is the perfect way to connect with nature, whilst always getting your dose of physical exercise too!

#nature1 is the brain child of an award-winning developer and humanitarian Jason Heaton a master builder by instinct who has been committed to best building practices for over three decades.

www.nature1.co.uk

‘Out Loud’ with Steve and Mal is a unique transatlantic radio talk show focused on relationship topics, pop culture with a spice of weekly celebrities, musicians, and film and television stars.

Steve’s from America...an opinionated egomaniac. Mal’s an educated English girl who drinks tea and doesn’t like Steve having the last word! It’s a weekly show broadcasting on 60+ stations worldwide it airs in every time zone.

It’s a weekly culture clash between a Brit and an American

They can be heard discussing the differences in dating and relationships and confusing each other. Who knew the UK and the USA speak English but don’t understand one another? Out Loud is filled with amusing banter with a dash of relationship advice for the fans... But whose advice will they take?

Out Loud is the perfect tongue-in-cheek, fun-packed format where guest celebrities drop into ‘Out Loud’s studio, let their hair down, and have fun.

Tune in every week to American on-air personality Steve Benz and British co-host Singer Song-writer Malissa Whitehouse while they enjoy another radio show filled with weekly banter, disagreements, music, and just plain chaos.

Photography by Lene Langley Moments to Media

You can’t eat a brick

is one of my most quoted catch phrases and may seem a bit odd, given I am writing for a property magazine

During divorce, many people focus on retaining the family home, almost at all costs, forsaking other assets. Whilst having somewhere to live is number one priority for both parties, what are the implications of staying in the house? Whilst on the face of it, it provides stability for the children, costs can be saved by staying and it just “feels good” to stay.

So you decide to stay, trading pensions and other assets to buy your ex out, what are the implications of this? Can you afford to not only maintain the family home; the mortgage, if you have one but what are the costs of foregoing other assets, for example a pension.

Using a modelling tool, you can very quickly ascertain the financial implications of a decision and make a more rational decision, which may be unexpected. One retired couple I worked with had made the decision for him to stay in the house, they had a range of assets and from the modelling, we were able to see that he would run out of money within four years. Yes, he still had the house, could downsize or equity release, but he would be four years older and the decision would be forced. Thankfully they were able to make an alternative decision before it was too late. Staying in the home may feel safe but at what cost?

“3% of people take financial advice during divorce, 97% of people wished they had”

JAYNE WILDISH

www. Jaynewildish.co.uk - jayne@jaynewildish.co.uk - 07826 847175 LI Jayne Wildish (Instagram divorcehelpuk)

WE ARE

The South West’s Property and Construction Marketing Specialists

We’re your digital marketing one-stop shop – offering AdSmart from Sky, Websites & eCommerce, Digital Services and Business Solutions. We’ve undergone a #FunkyReset recently, with newly improved signature plans, and other exciting business solutions. We’re excited for the future, offering strong, reliable services, solutions and strategies to fit goals and budgets.

Led by Cristina Axford, our multi-discipline team will work together for you. They possess a unique blend of skills and knowledge to help your business succeed. Each member of our team has been hand-picked based on their experience and expertise in their respective fields. Whether it’s website design, ecommerce, social media management, copywriting, graphic design, TV production our team has the expertise to drive and increase your visibility. Consider us your digital safety net. We’ll guide you every step of the way and ensure your online presence is as solid as your structures. Just like you wouldn’t DIY your plumbing, leave the digital to us. Let Funky Media Agency build a website that showcases your work, manage your social media to attract new clients, and develop digital marketing that gets you noticed!

To complement our digital solutions team, we have a cracking bunch in our sales and admin team too – managing your projects together, running SEO reports and much more to make everything we do come together.

AdSmart from Sky

Forget generic TV ads! Sky’s AdSmart lets businesses target their ideal audience with laser precision, reaching viewers most likely interested in their product based on demographics, interests, and even household composition. This cost-effective approach makes TV advertising accessible to businesses of all sizes, and The Funky Media team can help you every step of the way, from explaining the service to guiding you through the entire ad creation process.

Websites & eCommerce

Want a website that wows? We build stunning and strategic WordPress sites to convert visitors into customers. Whether you need a simple revamp or a full build from scratch, our WordPress & WooCommerce specialists will craft you a dynamic pixel perfect website that perfectly reflects your brand and ignites your online presence.

Digital Services

Stuck in a marketing rut? We can be your complete marketing makeover. Our award-winning guru can revamp your social media presence getting you real and organic engagement.

We can streamline your workflow with our user-friendly CRM system, and craft data-driven advertising campaigns that reach the perfect customer. Plus, our user-friendly email marketing platform lets you design and automate beautiful email sequences with detailed tracking.

We go beyond digital. Our AI-powered content creation platform, FunkyMedia.ai, helps you build your brand and construct engaging content. Services also include business setup, brand identity development, and creation of impactful print materials.

Whether you need captivating photography or high-impact video production, we’ve got you covered. Our very own radio station and app, provides additional avenues to reach your target audience. Let Funky Media be your marketing partner and guide you towards success.

Funky Media Magazine undergoes a stylish transformation! What do you think? This is inside the magazine – our dynamic new magazine dedicated to the thriving property, construction, and lifestyle distribution industries across the South West and internationally, championing businesses in these sectors.

Get in touch to get started

Whether you are looking for strategic design, we have your property and construction needs covered. We are a specialist in this arena, but we cover all types of businesses big and small. We’d love to show you AdSmart from Sky, to give us the opportunity to look after your advertising, and then we have our new website offering and social media management.

And what’s more we can bundle them all up into a signature plan, making synergies and saving you time and money. We look forward to hearing you.

Get in touch: hello@funkymedia.agency

View our website: www.funkymedia.agency

Have you ever wondered how seemingly small and local businesses keep popping up on TV ads whilst you’re watching SKY?

You can choose which postcode sees your advert and you can even choose other demographics to make your audience even more receptive.

Airtime packages start from just £3,000 - so you can be rubbing shoulders with major brands to make your business stand out from the local competition.

Worried about that pesky fast-forward button on the remote?

They’ve thought of that - you’ll only get charged if your ad is watched at least 75% of the way through.

Nothing compares to TV, it’s still the most trusted advertising medium there is.