Vale Life Winter 2017

VALE L IFE WINTER 2017

P R O U D

T he Vale

of

T O

B E

PRICELESS

I N D E P E N D E N T

G lamorgan ’s P remier L ifest yle M agazine

Catwalk Queen

NEW MOTHER OF THE BRIDE COLLECTION AT THE QUEEN B PENARTH FASHION WEEK, GIFTS, HAIR, BEAUTY, HOMES & MORE

Restaurant Reviews What’s On, Business, Shopping

There’s more online www.valelife.co.uk

Art, Music, Style Health, Homes and much more plus

CALL 029 2066 7787

VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.ALEXANDERBULLOCK.CO.UK

14 This issue is packed full of gorgeous features to help you warm up this wonderful winter season.

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CONTENTS

28

76 4

36 19

31

Porthcawl at its stormy best.

This stunning image was supplied by Karl McCarthy.

68 42


37-39 Morgan Arcade

Cardiff

CF10 1AF

029 2037 3780 www.hawkesessentials.com

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THE VALE OF GLAMORGAN’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

VALE L IFE Editor Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Creative Director Mark Roberts mark@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Editorial Thomas Goodyear editorial@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Features Crispin Boden-Tebbutt crispin@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

www.valelife.co.uk 0845 180 2345 Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Barry CF63 2AW Passionate about the Vale of Glamorgan We are a small independent publisher. We are not a large publishing group pretending to be home grown. Vale Life magazine is written, designed and printed in the Vale of Glamorgan for the people of the Vale of Glamorgan.

Our philosophy We are committed to quality. This quote by William Foster pretty much sums up our thinking: “Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.”

Caveat emptor Advertisers supply their own copy or artwork, and therefore Vale Life cannot accept any responsibility for disputes between advertisers and their customers. Caveat emptor - let the buyer beware.

Important you read this We have made every effort to ensure that all information contained in Vale Life or on www.valelife.co.uk (or our social media streams) is correct and accurate. However, we accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions and can offer no compensation should we get it wrong. Please note that the opinions, thoughts, views or ideas expressed in articles contained in Vale Life are strictly those of the authors.

Intellectual property © Copyright Vale Life 2017. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine (including adverts) may be reproduced in any shape or form (in whole or part) without the express written permission of the publishers. We take breach of copyright and theft of intellectual property extremely seriously and will sue at the drop of a croissant. You have been warned (nicely); ignorance is no excuse.

Subscriptions To guarantee your copy, please send a cheque for £20 (four issues) made payable to Vale Life. Visit www.valelife.co.uk for special subscriber discounts and special offers.

Missed the last issue?

We hold a small number of each issue in stock so if you do need a pristine copy, please telephone us or email jennifer@valelife.co.uk. Hopefully we’ll have the issue you want (but we cannot guarantee it). Each back issue costs £5 including postage and packing.

Yes it’s free. Priceless actually!

Vale Life is distributed free through a wide variety of outlets across Vale of Glamorgan and beyond and is given away free of charge on the understanding that we are happy for it to be lent, passed on, given to friends and generally read until it falls apart. At which point, you can recycle it and we’d be delighted if you did.

Green is good The pulp used in the production of the paper Vale Life is printed on is sourced from sustainably managed Scandinavian tree farms and utilises an elementary chlorine-free bleaching process.

We’re very sociable!

We’re on the web! www.valelife.co.uk Like on Facebook! www.facebook.com/valelife Follow on Twitter! @ValeLife #ValeLife

WELCOME

Well, we’re in! We’ve settled in rather nicely into our cosy production office in Cowbridge and have been warmly welcomed by our neighbours and the business community.

Our waistlines are suffering a little though as Fablas is just a few doors away, as is The Yard, with their amazing pizzas! Lots more walking required to burn those calories off!

Our new man, Nigel, is fitting in really well. If you haven’t met him already, I’m sure your paths will cross soon. He’s full of enthusiasm for the job and brings with him a wealth of experience in sales, marketing and advertising strategies.

We’ve also launched Gower Life and recently had a launch event at Jamaican Jills in Swansea, which was a great success. Our Gower golden girl, Lucy Gallivan, did us proud with her first issue.

We’ve got lots of plans to expand into new areas, so if you’re in the market for a new job, be it in advertising sales, design or editorial, then feel free to drop me an email with your CV and what skills you think you could bring to our happy band!

Penarth Fashion Week was an extraordinary success and we were so proud to be chosen as sole media sponsors for it.

The businesses in Penarth really got behind the spirit of the event and raised thousands for the chaps at the RNLI, who risk their lives on a daily basis, saving the souls of those unlucky enough to get into difficuly at sea.

Promote your business Butcher? Baker? Candlestick maker?

Whatever business you’re in, reach over 35,000 aspirational readers right across the Vale of Glamorgan and beyond! For more information call 01446 509 799, or email jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

We all have our thinking caps on now for next year, to make it an even bigger and better (if that’s possible!) event.

We hope you all have a fantastic Christmas and peaceful and prosperous New Year and we hope to catch up with you all in the months ahead.

Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts Editor 07766 106 701 jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk uk.linkedin.com/in/jenniferhobbsroberts Our winter cover star Doesn’t Jodie Tanner, owner of The Queen B Boutique in Penarth look amazing on the catwalk for the Penarth Fashion Week in support of the RNLI? Take a look at her fabulous mother-of-thebride collections on page 16.

VALE LIFE WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED US OVER RECENT MONTHS. OUR CONTRIBUTORS, OUR FAMILIES, OUR FRIENDS (INCLUDING ALL THE NEW ONES WE HAVE MADE) AND OUR ADVERTISERS - WITHOUT THEM VALE LIFE WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE. WE HOPE YOU LIKE WHAT WE’VE PRODUCED AND WE’LL TRY TO MAKE EACH ISSUE EVEN BETTER THAN THE LAST AND IF YOU HAVE A STORY THAT YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE, PLEASE GET IN TOUCH. VALE LIFE IS REGISTERED AT THE BRITISH LIBRARY AS A MAGAZINE ISSN 1757-1723. FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.VALELIFE.CO.UK

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FOR THOSE WHO TAKE THEIR DRIVING SERIOUSLY AND THEIR FINANCES, TOO.

MASERATI GHIBLI DIESEL. YOURS. FROM £448 PER MONTH* PLUS INITIAL RENTAL. BASED ON CURRENT STOCK The Ghibli Diesel four door saloon is every inch a Maserati, featuring a gorgeous, coupélike silhouette, luxury leather interior, economical yet potent diesel engine and 8-speed ZF automatic transmission.

MOTORLINE MASERATI CARDIFF 291 Penarth Road, Cardiff CF11 8TT Phone: 02920 666 472 | www.motorline.co.uk/maserati

Official fuel consumption figures for the Maserati Ghibli MY17 range in mpg (l/100 km): Urban 20.5 (13.8) - 36.7 (7.7), Extra Urban 39.8 (7.1) - 57.6 (4.9), Combined 29.4 (9.6) - 47.9 (5.9). CO2 emissions on combined cycle: 223 - 158g/km. *Personal Contract Hire. Maserati Ghibli Diesel Saloon V6d 4dr Auto (incl. metallic paint, Brake callipers in red, and 19” Proteo design alloy wheels at £2,317). Initial rental of £4,480, followed by 23 monthly rentals of £448, incl. VAT & excl. maintenance. Based on 6,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charges apply. Vehicles must be registered between 01/10/17 and 31/12/17. Subject to status and availability. Limited stock. Guarantees may be required. Ts&Cs apply. Leasys, SL1 0WU. We work with a number of creditors including Leasys.

The Vale of Glamorgan has so many great little gems and we’ve tried to share as many as we can with you in this issue. We only like to feature businesses, places, activities or events that we’ve either experienced ourselves or have been recommended to us. We’d love to hear from you too. Where do you shop? Where do you eat? What do you love about our gorgeous county?

Please send your comments to jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

AROUND THE VALE

RHOOSE

Posh Pawz Salon & Spa Are All Ready for Xmas

Pop in and see their full range of Christmas toys, jumpers and selection boxes. Perfect for their Christmas stocking! They’ll get a Christmas bandana after their treatment too!

Posh Pawz Salon & Spa are all ready to pamper your pets this Christmas.

Owners Kathryn Phillips and Jo Scott are all fully trained groomers and offer a full range of grooming services including warm baths, blow drys, clipping and styling. At every groom they will check and clip nails, pluck and clean ears and empty anal glands if needed.

Posh Pawz Salon and Spa 11 Fontygary Road, Rhoose CF62 3DR 01446 710044 poshpawzsalonandspa@gmail.com www.poshpawzsalonandspa.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

The salon is fully air conditioned and heated with an open and relaxed feel, all breeds are welcome and every client is given the time they deserve and treated like a VIP (Very Important Pooch).

TA K E A B R E A K F R O M PA I N

ProTone Body Studio From toning tables to holistic treatments, ProTone Body Studio can help soothe the soul.

With toning beds that help to relieve the symptoms of Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, Cerebral Palsy, Diabetic Neuropathy, Parkinson’s, and Stroke Recovery plus a treatment room where a Holistic Therapist offers Reiki, Reflexology, pregnancy treatments, and massages that can help manage pain and soothe the soul.

Not satisfied with only relieving pain, ProTone also have an on-site beauty therapist that can treat you to luxury facials, waxing, lashes and nail treatments.

Plus, for all the men, they sell a range of traditional shaving equipment that is perfect as a treat or a gift for someone else this Christmas. Wheelchair accessible and Autism friendly, ProTone Body Studio can offer you a much needed break.

Bridgend, Lower Court House Derwen Road CF31 1LE www.protonebodystudio.com 01656 750111 Like on Facebook 8

S H O E R E PA I R E R S , DA N C E W E A R AND GIFTS

Frangoulis A family businesses with thirty years’ experience in the shoe repair industry.

Offering a wide and diverse range of services from shoe repairs, key cutting, engraving trophies, award shields, tankards, Zippo lighters, dancewear, gymnastic wear, masks and stage accessories and leather wallets and purses.

Suppliers of many local dance and theatre schools with a variety of dancewear needs.

“Offering a wide and diverse range of services.”

Frangoulis 2 Windsor Arcade, Penarth CF64 1JA 029 2070 0233 Like on Facebook

LLANTRISANT

New Home For Artist Rhoswen Wilkinson is a Llantrisantbased artist who has a passion for the coast and natural environments.

She spends time on the beach walking, looking, stopping, making colour swabs and jotting down her feelings and uses prominent parts that interest her to create her paintings. Light is a major influence, as it can rapidly change atmosphere and colour so greatly.

Her main objective is to stop people from walking over beauty in nature, rather to pause and savour what she is experiencing. Rhoswen is hoping with her new studio in Llantrisant, that she can start a new, exciting chapter. crafty-painter@hotmail.com S P E C I A L I S T I N I M AG I N AT I V E , LOW MAINTENANCE DESIGN

Gentle Touch Gardening Services

With more than 20 years’ experience, there are not many gardening challenges that this family-run concern has not overcome.

They are Members of the Guild of Master Craftsmen and one of their gardens was shortlisted for the Travis Perkins Landscaper of the Year award in 2015.

The company cover every aspect of landscaping, from driveways to decking and paving, pergolas and garage conversions. Whether you live in Bridgend, Cardiff, Porthcawl or any point in-between, give them a call to

make sure that you get the garden your home deserves.

“Very happy with my new garden. They worked very hard and got the job done on time to a very high quality. Would recommend to anyone!” Michael, CF38 01656 729 279 info@gentletouchgardening.co.uk www.landscapingbridgend.co.uk Card payments/credit facilities available.

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V A L E C O N S T R U C T I O N LT D

A well-established building company that you can rely on Vale Construction Ltd are passionate about their work and undertake all types of building projects in south Wales and Bristol.

They offer only top-quality building services. They are fully insured and offer a range of competitively priced construction work. From building refurbishments to new builds, no job is too big or small for them. Their trained and experienced professionals, which include builders, bricklayers, electricians and more, can help you with quality supplies and fittings and deliver a top-class building project.

SERVICES INCLUDE n Building maintenance and repairs n Home refurbishments n Roofing and gutter repairs n Extensions and conversions n Hard landscaping n Driveway and patio installation n Conservatory installation

If you have a project you wish to discuss, give Vale Construction Ltd a call and one of the friendly tradesmen will guide you through the process and assist you with every aspect of a building project.

“From building refurbishments to new builds, no job is too big or small.”

Vale Construction (SW) Ltd 6 Cog Road, Sully, Penarth CF64 5TD info@valeconstructionltd.co.uk www.valeconstructionltd.co.uk Like on Facebook Head office: 029 2053 0300 Bridgend office: 01656 331 676 Bristol office: 0117 370 5030 Out of hours: 07511 601 895

M AG E N TA F I N A N C I A L P L A N N I N G

Financial Planning for Later Life At Magenta we help clients to build plans for their future security and happiness and this includes thinking about later life and the complexities people may face as they get older.

With an ageing population and old age care demands continuing to rise, accommodating healthcare costs in retirement is an increasingly important issue.

At Magenta we focus on the bigger picture and take into consideration the quality of life and happiness of our clients. Julie Lord, our Chief executive is an accredited later life advisor with SOLLA (Society of Later Life Advisors,) and we champion the needs of older clients and their families.

We know that as we get older, our memory is not always what it was and that it can be hard to remember everything. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, more than 1 million people in the UK will have dementia by 2025. One in five people over 85 already suffers from it, with rates significantly higher among women than men.

During many discussions with clients, it has become obvious to us that there are many free or inexpensive resources available to help with financial decisions, organisation or passing useful information on to your family or executors upon illness or death.

Magenta has put together a tool kit, full of free tools and ideas to help you.

In our toolkit we have included services, skills and tips that will enable you to: n Complete your Wills and Powers of Attorney n Organise all your financial and life information in one place n Have a better understanding of how nursing care is funded and whether you or your family will need to pay n Potentially delay the effects of ageing on your brain n Be financially secure 10

You can download this toolkit for free on our website www.magentafp. com or telephone us and we can send you a copy. We offer a free 30 minute Magenta Later Life telephone call, offering both financial planning guidance and a friendly ear, if you need support.

Contact Gretchen or Julie in the first instance for a friendly chat to see if we can help.

Magenta Financial Planning One Court Road, Bridgend CF31 1BE 01656 760670 www.magentafp.com Email: hello@magentafp.com Twitter: @magentaFP Facebook: Magenta FP

We are now exclusive Aga and Everhot dealers for South Wales

Clearview Stove

Chesney Stove

Stoves | Kitchens | Ranges | Outdoors

Visit our showroom and see our wide choice of high quality stoves, kitchens and interiors. Relax in the CafĂŠ in our Cowbridge showroom.

COWBRIDGE Unit 42, Vale Business Park, Llandow, Cowbridge, CF71 7PF Tel: 01446 771567 MONMOUTH 1 Mayhill Ind Est, Staunton Rd, Monmouth, NP25 3LX Tel: 01600 711710

www.topstak.co.uk | Find us on:

We are exclusive dealers for leading brands including :

T H E H E R I T A G E O F H AW K E S Made-to-measure suit and shirt specialists Tailored to fit morningwear hire Old school service, non-pressure sales Over 80 years’ combined experience in store

STOCKISTS OF Belstaff Est.1924 Roy Robson Est.1922 Eton Est.1928 Jeffery West Est.1987 RM Williams Est.1932 MMX, Meyer Est.1967 Claudio Lugli Est.1983 Remus Uomo Est.1924 Without Prejudice Est.2005 Van Buck Est.1976 Barbour Est.1894 Guide Est.1988 Mish Mash Est.1990 Hugo James Est.1977 Camel Est.1977 Ashwood Leathers & Bags Est.1977 Van Gils Est.1948 Torre Est.1974 Huddersfield Est.1930 Holland & Sherry Est.1836 Gibson Est.1996

1,200 years of clothing history in one store

Est.1994


37-39 Morgan Arcade

Cardiff

CF10 1AF

029 2037 3780 www.hawkesessentials.com

WIN! WIN! IT’S COMPETITION TIME

Who would like to spend a lovely afternoon enjoying a scrumptious afternoon tea at Penny Farthing in Cowbridge?

With Christmas and New Year parties just around the corner, who wouldn’t love a major pampering session at Amorio in Penarth?

You could enjoy a selection of home-made desserts such the very popular carrot cake, almond slice, scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, macaroons and vegan chocolate brownie cake.

This competition is for one person to win all of the following treatments, worth a whopping £134!

Here is what one lucky winner will receive: Luxury Manicure, Luxury Pedicure, Eyebrow Tint & Wax Lash Tint, Makeover, Strip Eyelashes, Wash & Blow Dry Sienna X Spray Tan

All accompanied by hand-cut bloomer sandwich selection all served with a pot of tea or coffee. Or, as it’s Christmas, why not enjoy a glass of prosecco? The competition is for two people, so it could be you and a friend, relative or partner.

HOW TO ENTER Just answer this question. Which street in Penarth is Amorio Blow Dry and Beauty Bar based?

HOW TO ENTER All you have to do is email your entry to jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk and quote PFGL and the winner will be picked at random.

Please quote reference 2017VLAMOR and email your answer to jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk.

It couldn’t be easier!

Afternoon Teas are available Mon-Fri from 2.30pm and Saturdays from 3pm.

T&C’s Apply (Must be used within 2 appointments in Jan/Feb 2018)

CLOSING DATE 31.12.2017

CLOSING DATE 31.12.2017

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BYRON TERRETT - 2017

BRITISH CARPET FITTER CHAMPION Byron works for the Family Flooring Company OUROWN DESIGNS Ltd which specialise in flooring for the new homes developer.

In additiion to the contract side of the business they have Llandow Carpet Studio the retail side of the business that specialise in Cormar Carpets and Quick Step products. They have a high demand for their services because of their supply of quality flooring and, more especially, because of the quality of their fitters lead by Byron.

Byron was born and bred in Llantwit Major and has worked for the family business since he left school. He learnt his craft from working alongside the best of the best in the field, Mike Whale and Tim Nicholas, both former winners on the British Carpet Fitting Championships. Totally motivated, Byron always wanted to enter the competition. Unfortunately, the NICF stopped running it for 15 years.

Last year it was re-introduced and Byron was able to enter it and made the final. Not content with being a finalist, Byron entered the 2017 competition and emerged victorious!

Gracious as ever, Byron saluted his co-competitors, saying that each was worthy of winning. Over 4,000 entry forms were submitted from top fitters all over the UK and one from Europe. Following a written exam, the entries were reduced to 12 semifinalists who took a practical exam and then six went on to fight it out at the Harrogate Flooring Show in September.

For the final, the fitters had to make a tool box out of carpet, sew and fit a double bull nose and fit carpet around a pillar and a difficult over hanging shape.

Byron as well as a NICF Master Carpet FItter is also a Master Installer of Quick Step and a leading expert on their Livyn and Pergo Click LVT. These are fairly new flooring products and Byron, and his trusted assistant, Steve Hickman, also from Llantwit Major, are fitting miles every year and were employed by Quick Step to fit a demonstration house in Wiltshire.

How to get in touch Discerning customers looking for quality carpets and flooring, fitted by the best can contact Llandow Carpet Studio to make an appointment.

Since winning the competition, Byron has been asked to be an ambassador for Cormar Carpets and will make a series of fitting videos that will be featured on their new website early next year.

Ourown Designs offers contract flooring to the new homes market and works with Persimmon, Charles Church and Taylor Wimpey on developments from Milford Haven to Newent in Glos. and up to Hay on Wye. In addition, the retail devision LLandow Carpet Studio has a studio showroom above their office, specialising in Cormar Carpets and Quick Step Flooring.

15

Llandow Carpet Studio 21K Vale Business Park Llandow, Cowbridge 01446 77 50 50 mail@llandowcarpetstudio.co.uk www.llandowcarpetstudio.co.uk Like on Facebook

www.thequeenb.co.uk

7-8 WASHINGTON BUILDINGS

TELEPHONE 029 20 711 100

PENARTH CF64 2AD

ENQUIRIES@THEQUEENB.CO.UK

Style has never been so affordable

Penarth’s first fashion week took place in October to raise money for the RNLI. What was originally planned twelve months earlier as a single event evolved into something much bigger with the passion from the RNLI fundraising team, local businesses, the crew and more importantly, the community.

PENARTH FASHION WEEK After months of planning, Penarth was treated to a mixture of events which encapsulated fashion, beauty, food and most importantly prosecco and gin!

The events sponsored Beverly Davies Penny and Valco Scaffolding took place in church halls, shops, bars, cafés and Penarth Lifeboat station itself.

Gingers kicked off Fashion Week in tremendous style with a fashion show at St Augustine’s church hall, followed by an event at The Queen B Boutique, with an after party at Etc. Brush with Beauty had Delilah make up demonstrations and this was followed by an evening at Ener-chi with ESPA (very relaxing!).

There was an open evening at Refresh Clinic, gin tasting at Crepe Escape and an event at Blu Hair Design with Dawn Clinic showing the latest in hair and aesthetics, followed by an after party at Willmore’s. We then saw the opening of Nathan Palmer’s showroom, a lovely addition to Penarth.

The weekend was soon upon us and it was time to transform the RNLI station – in 48 hours it had to be an operational station, catwalk and restaurant – nothing like a challenge!

Thank you to Jason Hall of C3i who provided all of the staging, lighting and sound for the fashion show and dinner at the station along with his tremendous team managed by Jen Payne (crew member). The final dressing of the station was down to Events @ Room 11.

An extremely busy week that brought the Penarth community together raising money to help keep our local RNLI heroes kitted out with the best clothing, training and equipment – this week of fashion, fun and friendship raised over £11,000 which will go a long way to help save lives at sea.

Saturday saw The Queen B Boutique and Nathan Palmer put on a spectacular fashion show, compered by Wenda James-Rowe where the RNLI designed dress and jacket were on show, along with the latest trends for the winter months. This was followed by an after party at Penarth Yacht Club where more fun was had!

With sore heads on the Sunday the station was reformed to a fine dining restaurant, ready for the three-course meal prepared by James Sommerin Penarth’s Michelin Star chef.

Along the way, Vale Life and City Life Cardiff, our chosen sole media sponsors, had showcased the events beautifully and their videographer Ben and photographer Jamie worked their socks off to capture every moment on film.

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We are now working on ideas for 2018.

If anyone would like to get in touch, please contact Caroline Eva. 07899 717386 caroline.eva@hotmail.co.uk @CarolineEva10

When Caroline Eva approached me to be the sole media sponsors for Penarth Fashion Week in support of the RNLI, we were very excited.

PENARTH FASHION WEEK WHAT BROUGHT VALE LIFE AND THE RNLI TOGETHER When we were asked to be involved, my immediate response was yes.

Mark was a big supporter of the RNLI having always had a real affinity with the sea growing up.

Mark said, “I was always swimming and snorkelling as a kid, and my dad was a diver with the South Wales Police Underwater Search Unit so I understood, even from a young age, that the sea can be a dangerous place.”

I am a strong swimmer and, even though I’m not a great lover of swimming in the sea, I appreciate the courage of the RNLI teams that risk their lives every year to save those in trouble. I also love fashion so it was, as they say, a no brainer.

At our first meeting with the committee, ideas were flying around the room. Mark came up with the idea of designing a dress made out of the RNLI flag (a la Geri Halliwell’s Union Jack dress). The ideas flowed from there about how we could help promote the event.

Features in Vale Life and City Life Cardiff followed, plus relentless posting online and through our vast, social media network and, soon enough, the events were upon us.

I cannot say enough how proud we both are to have been involved with such a brilliant group of people.

The professionalism and effort invested has been immense. We’ve been blown away by everyone involved and those who supported each event by attending and donating.

Now that the first Fashion Week is over, we’re all looking forward to getting around the table to plan 2018 - notepads at the ready! Jennifer 24

Wishing You A Merry Christmas From Cathy, The Girls... & Sam!

Gingers

9-10 Stanwell Rd Penarth CF64 2AP

Bojangles

Washington Buildings, Stanwell Rd Penarth CF64 2AD

Gifts @ No.9

029 2070 9773

029 2035 0040

029 2070 2460

9 Windsor Rd Penarth CF64 1JB

CURVES PENARTH

Women only gym for all ages and abilities As a ladies only gym, women aged between 16 and 85, can feel comfortable working out without having to worry about how they look.

No muscle-bound men or fancy gym gear is required. Curves helps to build women’s confidence through strength training with resistance machines in a 30 minute workout. Before the new owners took over the business in September 2016, it was struggling a lot to survive with under 100 members, old machines and no coaching, leaving members feeling demotivated. Now the gym has 170 happy members, new machines, coaching every time you attend the gym.

Members are motivated and provided with a healthy eating plan, which is all included in the membership.

The gym currently offers five morning and evening classes including Zumba, boxercise, balance, yoga and abs. £10 gift card vouchers are now available and would make the perfect Christmas present for a loved one.

“The gym currently offers five morning and evening classes.”

Curves Penarth 57 Arcot Street Penarth CF64 1ET 029 2070 8020 www.curves.eu/uk/clubs/curvespenarth Like on Facebook

HelloGorgeous!

A UNISEX GOLDWELL SALON We would like to wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! book now for your Christmas and New year appointments To avoid any disappointment Free consultations t Free WiFi t Free refreshments

111 LUDLOW LANE, PENARTH, CF64 1ED Tel: 029 2070 4763

U LT I M AT E B E AU T Y R O OM gh

Gift Vouchers Available

Treat your friends and family this Christmas

20% Discount On All Services Throughout January (Appointment required)

Special Microblading Offer £120 For January 2018 only gh

01656 856320 or 07719 384593 Facebook & Instagram @ultimatebeautyrooms

The Coach House, 1 Derwen Road Bridgend CF31 1LH 26

A

breath of fresh air

Why are you based in Penarth?

We are perfectly located to cover Cardiff, Penarth and the rest of the Vale.

What makes the areas you cover popular?

It has been reported in many a survey that people living in the Vale of Glamorgan and Cardiff are some of the happiest in the UK, enjoying a high quality of life which includes high exam pass rates and a short commute to work. The Vale of Glamorgan was the only area to rival the dominance of the southern half of the country.

What do homebuyers look for?

It’s all about lifestyle choices, so they want good comms. (WiFi and internet) and infrastructure to ensure shorter travelling times to and from work, so that they can spend more time with their families.

They also look for regular bus and rail service links to the centre of Cardiff, which the area enjoys.

Also at the top of the list of many house hunters are good schools, low crime rates, great restaurants and cafes, theatres, leisure amenities and parks, all we which the Vale of Glamorgan and Cardiff have in abundance.

What about house prices?

South Wales still enjoys great value for money and strong investment potential.

Get in touch 17 Glebe Street Penarth CF64 1ED

029 20 707064 info@seabreezehomes.co.uk www.seabreezehomes.co.uk Nigel Reed

If you haven’t yet visited the stunning new Amorio Blow Dry and Beauty Bar on Glebe Street in Penarth, then it should be on your to-do list.

The gorgeous new salon opened on 23rd September 2017, having built up a following at its former home. Owner Jess Carmell tells us what makes this salon a firm favourite.

A MORIO

BLOW DRY & BEAUTY BAR What makes Amorio special Jess?

You can see, by the standard of the interior, what makes us special at first glance. However, it’s not just the beautiful design of the salon that makes us special, we carry that into all of our treatments.

We have a small team here, and we make each customer feel a part of our little family - their reviews say it all.

Clients cannot wait to come back for a pamper! We only use the best high-end brands which include Gelish, SiennaX, Moroccon Oil, Nouveau Lash etc. We are all highly trained in the treatments that we offer and make sure that each and every aspect of a client’s visit to us has the ‘wow’ factor! The salon is very relaxed and friendly. We all love coming into work each day and this is something that our clients pick up on.

What treatments are popular right now?

They all are because of the affordability.

Even though the salon is lavish and luxurious, with high end furniture, fittings and materials, we have kept the treatment prices as affordable as possible.

However, I would say all of our lash services are a massive hit, along with acrylic and gel nails but also our brow services are very popular too! Arghh it’s so hard to say!

Where do your clients come from?

We have clients from Penarth, from Barry, right across the Vale, Cardiff, Cowbridge and Porthcawl. We even have clients from Manchester and Essex.

When they are visiting the area, they like to pop in for a little pampering!

“We have a small team here, and we make each customer feel a part of our little family - their reviews say it all.”

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AMORIO

PRICE LIST MAKEUP n Occasion Makeup £25 n Airbrush Makeup £35 n Prom Makeup From £35 n Eye Makeup £15

BRIDE £35 n On The Day £50 n Airbrush Trial £45 n Airbrush On The Day £60 n Trial

BRIDESMAID & MOTHER OF BRIDE n Trial £30 n On The Day £40 n Airbrush Trial £40 n Airbrush On The Day £50 SYNTHETIC LASHES EXTRA £3 MINK LASHES EXTRA £10 TATTOO COVERING – AIRBRUSH n Small Area £10 n Medium Area £20 n Large Area £30 HAIR n Wash & Blow Dry £20 n Hair Styling From £10 n Hair Up From £15 n Conditioning Treatment (Inc. Wash & Blow) £30 TANNING n SiennaX Spray Tan – Full Body £20 n SiennaX Spray Tan – Half Body £15 n Sunbed (Per Minute) £0.60

WAXING FACE n Brows £9 n Upper Lip £7 n Chin £9 n Neck £12 n Half Face £15 n Nostrils £7

NAIL ART • Swarovski Crystals £0.20/Per Crystal • Glitter/Chrome £0.20/Per Nail NAIL DESIGNS AVAILABLE – PRICE UPON CONSULTATION BROWS • Tint £9 • Wax £9 • Tint & Wax £16 • Hi-Brow Treatment £25

BODY Leg £18 n Full Leg £28 n Under arms £10 n Fore Arm £15 n Full Arm £25 n Bikini Line £12 n Half

NAILS HANDS n File & Buff £8 n File & Polish £10 n Luxury Manicure £17 n Gel Manicure £24 n Soak Off £10 n Soak Off With New Set £5

ACRYLIC Set £28 n Full Set With Gel Polish £35 n Infills £20 n Infills With Gel Polish £27 n Overlay On Natural Nails £20 n Nail Repair £3 n Soak Off £10 n Full

FEET • File & Buff £10 • File & Polish £12 • Luxury Pedicure £23 • Gel Pedicure £30 • French Manicure +£5 Add Gel Polish +£7*

LASHES n Lash Tint £10 n Strip Lashes; Synthetic £5/Mink £10 n Express (1-2 weeks) £25 n SVS – Speed, Volume, Style (infills needed every 3-4 weeks); Natural Set £45 Glamour Set £65 Infills £20-£30 n LVL (6-8 weeks) £39.99 MALE TREATMENTS WAXING n Brows £9 n Half Back £20 n Full Back £30 n Chest £25

TINTING £9 n Beard £15 n Brows

NAILS & Buff £8 n Male Manicure £15 n Male Pedicure £20 n File

TANNING Spray Tan £20 n Sunbed (Per Minute) £0.60 n SiennaX

We have also launched into the tanning bed world! We have very very high powered Ergoline and Ksun stand-up and lay-down sun beds that are taking the area by storm! We bet that once you’ve tried our state-of-the-art, highpowered sun beds and get a tan on your first visit, you won’t want to visit any other tanning salon. Our stand-up sunbed even has a Vibro plate in the bottom, so you can ‘TAN & TONE’ at the same time. It’s fantastic!

We are also giving anyway a free pot of cream to every new customer! You won’t want to miss these. We all love a bit of winter sun, even if it is only for a few minutes!

Amorio Blow Dry & Beauty Bar 96 Glebe Street, Penarth CF64 1EE 029 2070 5284 jess@amoriocosmetics.co.uk www.amoriocosmetics.co.uk Like us on Facebook, follow on Twitter, Google+, Instagram, Pinterest, Dribble 29

From

BLU H AIR DESIGN WELCOMES NEW STYLISTS

We would like to welcome Alice and Mia onto the shop floor as new stylists. They have already started to build a strong clientele and are both growing from strength to strength.

We would like to thank our clients for their support for the RNLI Audience with Blu evening. It was a fantastic chilled evening with a great community feel.

We would also would like to thank our clients for their continued support throughout the year and we would like to wish them a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Alice

Mia

A L I C E DAV I E S

MIA FRANCIS

My journey so far…

My journey so far…

I started working at Blu age 19 after leaving Art College to pursue my creative career in hair.

I started at Blu Hair Design as a Saturday girl when I was just 14 years of age. I knew straight away that hairdressing was definitely going to be my chosen career. That was 4 years ago.

4 years down the line I am now a qualified stylist. I currently specialise in couture colour and my aim is to also specialise in cutting. 2018 is the year I will focusing on that by going on more cutting courses and I will be shaping my career around that. My passion is to create the complete look by cutting and placing colour to emphasise the look.

Very exciting times!

I love my job and can’t believe how lucky I’ve been to be part of such a wonderful team.

“We would also would like to thank our clients for their continued support.”

I can’t believe how quick the time as gone, I have been qualified for just over a year and have built up a quite a large clientele. I enjoy meeting and getting to know all my clients and seeing them leave the salon with a new look and a smile on their face.

I love my job and can’t believe how lucky I’ve been to be part of such a wonderful team.I look forward to ongoing training and learning new skills and techniques.

Despite being one of the youngest on the team I have taken some responsibility for training the apprentices and giving them the best start on their journey.

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Blu Hair Design 1/1a Washington Chambers Stanwell Road, Penarth CF64 2AF 029 2070 4040 or 0770 932 4348 info@bluhairdesign.com www.bluhairdesign.com

Cardiff Arms Male Voice Choir

Bernard Cody and Nick Reeves-Hall

Pupils of Westbourne School

Pupils of Westbourne School

Stephen Thompson & Elaine Gifford

Bernard and Heather Cody

PENARTH YACHT CLUB Following a coffee morning held last year in aid of the University Hospital of Wales and Llandough Hospital to send two of the nursing staff to a myeloma cancer conference in New Delhi where one of the nursing staff was asked to speak at the conference.

The event organised by Nick ReevesHall, raised over £4,500 to send the staff to the conference, by paying airfares, hotel and conference fees.

The nursing staff asked if Nick could do the same again this year, so he organised a coffee morning for the patients’ family and friends and, with the funds raised this year, much needed equipment for the day units of both hospitals can now be bought.

Jill and Alun Porter

Charlotte Morgan (Social Media for PYC), Denise Morgan (Club Secretary)

Mr Reeves-Hall organised this year’s event at the Penarth Yacht Club. Guests gathered for a buffet lunch with delicious cakes, and were entertained by the Cardiff Arms Male Voice Choir.

Several local businesses supported the event, including Mr Bernard Cody of Bernard Cody Motor Engineers of Penarth, Starbucks UK, and local supermarkets such as Tesco and Asda, who kindly donated the food and beverages. Most of the leading restaurants in Penarth and butchers provided raffle prizes, and Westbourne School sixth form students offered their services for the day to serve the food and beverages to the patients’ family and friends.

Lynne and Gary Dixon

Rhys Savory and Heather Cody were exceptional on the day - the second year they have volunteered their services.

In excess of £4,000 was raised on the day, with half of that being matched by Santander Bank.

There is no known cure for this type of cancer, so events like these help to raise awareness of the illness.

June Cole, Jean Bartlett

Tanya Burton, Nick Reeves-Hall, Lucy Barrett

Tony Kirtland (Commodore of PYC), Jon Constable, Martin Duckett, Jayne Sullivan, Karen Berry, Bronwen Jones (Interior D:Zine), Chrissie Pegg (Script to Screen), Dot Evans, Mij Evans

Barney & Beau is a contemporary lifestyle store dedicated to sourcing and providing innovative, stylish and modern products for kids and the home.

We will be showcasing apparel, decor, furniture and gifts ideal for the modern family.

We look forward to welcoming you to our brand new store, so come along and browse our collection of the most beautiful things for babies & children as well as some “very cool� handpicked goodies for Mums and Dads too!

New Baby Gift List Service Bespoke Gift Boxes made to order

Unit 6, Pontcanna Mews, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9DF Tel: 029 2034 0022 Email: info@barneyandbeau.com

www.barneyandbeau.com

VA L E W I D E

Anne Rodgers The God Conclusion If you have a medical problem which Western medicine can’t solve, then Anne Rodgers might be able to help.

Anne, who is based in Penarth, has helped hundreds of people from all over the country (and from abroad) to get well both physically and emotionally and often helps people in business.

A N N E RO D G E R S HEALER

Anne works with people from all walks of life. She helps men, women and children.

When working with children, Anne always insists on a parent being present.

If you want to find out more about Anne’s gift and her healing stories, then her first book, The God Conclusion, will explain how her gift was first given to her and includes many testimonials from people that she has worked with.

The God Conclusion is available to buy now.

Anne’s second book will soon be available. Details of its release will be made available on Anne’s Facebook page. If you would like to pre-order your copy, please email jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

Based in the beautiful seaside town of Penarth in the Vale Of Glamorgan, I mostly work with local people in the Vale, Cardiff and across South Wales. My clients come from all walks of life. I work with men, women and children although I never work with children without a parent being present. For more information, please visit www.annerodgershealer.co.uk If you’d like to book a consultation, please call me on 029 2035 0118.

If you would like a copy, of Anne’s first book please send a cheque for £12.50 made payable to Good Life Publishing and send it to Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan CF63 2AW. If you would like a consultation with Anne, please call her on 029 2035 0118

My first book, The God Conclusion, “ Anne works is available to buy at £10 including postage and packing. It tells my story andpeople has many testimonials with from people I have worked with. from all walks If you would like a copy, please send a cheque for £10 made out ofto life.

She helps Anne Rodgers to: Good Life Publishing men, women Cardiff House Cardiff Road, Barry and children!”

Vale Of Glamorgan CF63 2AW

m ashk ea reti mtie,m e

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Mermaid Quay, the very heart of the waterfront.

Right on the water’s edge. Eating, drinking, shopping, pampering and relaxing – all overlooking Cardiff Bay. There’s something for everyone. www.mermaidquay.co.uk

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E CALL 01656 372560 9 LIAS ROAD PORTHCAWL CF36 3AH WWW.THISISBEER.CO.UK

CRAFT BEERS n REAL ALES n WORLD WINES GINS FROM AROUND THE WORLD n HAMPERS (Beer & Wine) FULL XMAS ALCOHOL PACKAGES

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Mr Underhill & Dr Gerard Griffiths

From 2019-20, Westbourne School students will be able to study part of their sixth form in Sydney and Singapore. In subsequent years, they will also be able to study in New York, Frankfurt, Santiago and Hong Kong.

LOCAL STUDENTS GAIN GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES MR UNDERHILL After forty-three wonderful years at Westbourne School, and the last fifteen as Principal, I am delighted to be taking on a broader role for Westbourne, launching sixth form colleges in Sydney and Singapore in 2019-20, and then one or two further schools a year thereafter.

New York, Frankfurt, Santiago and Hong Kong are the next candidates.

This enormously exciting development will provide the opportunity for all of our local sixth form students to spend a term or two studying the same curriculum at an international sister school, in the same highly-supportive environment and with the same standards of academic excellence.

In an increasingly global economy, the opportunity for our local students to expand their horizons is unparalleled.

To enable this to happen, I am delighted to announce the promotion of Dr Gerard Griffiths to Principal of Westbourne School.

DR GERARD GRIFFITHS This is my proudest moment professionally. Fantastic pupils, outstanding staff and incredible support from parents, I’m delighted to be taking Westbourne forwards.

Literacy and numeracy attainment throughout the school is extremely high and still rising. GCSE results are second to none and our Sixth Form has been top of the UK-wide league tables for three years in a row!

I understand fully that a key to Westbourne’s success - past a nd future - is engagement with our local community. While Mr Underhill progresses our international development, I will remain firmly focused on you - our local community.

Over the coming issues of Vale Life, in each and every issue, we will have a regular article discussing key educational issues that affect us all: ourselves as professionals, you as parents and, above all else, our children and their future.

“GCSE results are second to none and our Sixth Form has been top of the If you would like to discuss any of these topics - or indeed any other UK-wide league tables educational matter, please don’t for three years in a row!” hesitate to contact me directly.

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Dr Griffiths is a passionate Welshman who holds PhD in chemistry, was educated at Imperial College, and is fluent in both Welsh and French.

Most recently Academic Deputy of Westbourne Senior School and previously Head of Westbourne Prep School, Dr Griffiths has over 30 years’ teaching experience in Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry, the previous fifteen years in senior leadership positions.

Westbourne achieves outstanding results at every stage of the curriculum and provides the best all-round education in the Vale, from 3 to 18 years of age.

Hickman Road, P enarth Vale of Glamorgan C F64 2AJ 02920 705 705 www.westbourneschool.com principal@westbourneschool.com

For the third year Chris Macnamara, MD of the multi award-winning Brogue Trader in Cardiff ’s beautiful Morgan Arcade, has hosted Beaujolais Day in aid of good causes. This year, Spiro and Lisa Borg’s beautiful Cornerstone on Charles Street, Cardiff was the venue - and what a venue!

THE BROGUE TR ADER

160 people attended a fun-packed day at the beautiful Grade II listed building, with entertainment from Wales’ leading magician, Bryan Gunton. Rugby legend Sam Warburton, and four times Welsh capped, and Newport Dragons Centre Tyler Morgan, also attended.

Taking part in a rugby inspired Q&A was BBC Radio and ex-Welsh and British Lion, Eddie Butler, and Chris was assisted in his co-hosting duties by exWelsh rugby legend Rupert Moon.

The fun-packed day didn’t end there.

A superb meal prepared by the talented Cornerstone brigade ensured the great and the good enjoyed a superb dining experience and danced the night away to the soulful sounds of Big Mac’s Wholly Soul Band.

The City Hospice, formally George Thomas Hospice, and The Cathedral Charity will both benefit from the proceeds. Chris Macnamara said, “We’re immensely proud that we’ve raised a whopping £48,000. We want to thank all those lovely people, and companies, who put their hands in their pockets and supported the event by buying places and tables. Without them, this fabulous day simply wouldn’t be the success it is.”

The whole event was funded by Chris and Spiro themselves, so every single penny raised went directly to the charities.

Chris positively beams with pride, and rightly so. “Not bad for a little shoe shop!” he enthuses. And he’s absolutely right. Since opened the doors just four years ago, The Brogue Trader has grown impressively, with eight beautiful shops across the UK and plans for more in 2018. The family-run business is also the official formal shoe supplier and sponsor to both the Welsh national rugby and football teams.

Chris added, “This event is made doubly special because of the generosity of Spiro and Lisa Borg, as they donated the gorgeous Cornerstone facility and all four courses and wine. I’d also like to thank my dear friends; Russell Scott-Lawson from Hawkes Bespoke Menswear, and Laings The Jewellers (Parkhouse) on the Hayes, Cardiff city centre for donating some beautiful raffle prizes. Both company’s share my passion for excellent service and certainly deserve your custom.”

Tables were sold to the Welsh FA, the WRU and NatWest, as well as many other leading Cardiff businesses. The good and generous spirits of everyone involved ensured the day was a real success and The Brogue Trader Does Beaujolais has firmly established itself as one of the premier events on Cardiff ’s social calendar. We can’t wait for the fourth.

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DOES BEAUJOLAIS III!

The Brogue Trader 27A Morgan Arcade Cardiff CF10 1AF 029 2037 2036 www.thebroguetrader.com Cornerstone www. cornerstonecardiff.org 37

W ONDERLAND W EDDING

7TH JAN Cardiff City Hall

18TH MARCH Cardiff Castle

3RD SEPT Liberty stadium

28TH JAN Liberty Stadium

20TH MAY Cardiff city hall

14TH OCT Carmarthen show ground

11TH FEB Carmarthen Show ground

17TH JUNE Liberty stadium

21ST OCT Cardiff City Hall

07557 679 581

WWW.WONDERLAND-WEDDING.COM

Chic Boutique celebrate their first birthday, and you can celebrate with them!

CHIC BOUTIQUE

Chic Boutique in Pontyclun, a short drive from Cowbridge, have been running for almost a year; stocking luxury women’s casual wear, high definition make-up, paraben free bath bombs, scented candles and a lot more!

It’s a family affair with Shannon’s mother, Lisa, helping with the running of the business. Lisa brings her invaluable experience of 34 years working in retail and visual merchandising. She has played a tremendous part in the journey and Shannon says Chic Boutique wouldn’t be where it is now without her.

SPECIAL EVENT

Time to get your diaries out!

To celebrate their first year anniversary Chic Boutique will be hosting a special event.

Friday the 1st of December. All day, from 9 am till 7 pm, there will be 10% off selected items, champagne and canapés, as well as luxury raffle prizes. £2 a ticket, all proceeds will go to a Cystic Fibrosis research charity.

Stay on trend this winter!

The celebrity inspired clothing they stock will keep you on trend and add a spring in your step. With winter months approaching and gift buying season upon us, this may be the perfect place to pick up a special gift.

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Chic Boutique Limited 47 Cowbridge Road Pontyclun CF72 9EB 01443 239 900 Like and follow on Facebook and Instagram

With 27 years’ experience and leaders in their field of laser and cosmetic treatments, Beauty Within Cosmetic Laser Clinic and Medical Spa based in Cowbridge can help with a huge range of issues.

BEAUTY WITHIN MEDI SPA

The clinic boasts a clientele that come from near and far and, given the team’s combined clinical experience, it’s easy to understand why. We caught up with co-owner Neil Moaksom to find out which treatments are most popular at this time of the year.

And with their wide range of lasers, IPL devices and medical resources, not to mention their vast experience, you can be sure you will be getting the very best expertise.

They also work in conjunction with medical director Dr. Oliver Spencer in the use of dermal fillers and Botulinum toxin for non-surgical facial rejuvenation.

“In the month of December, our clients are getting ready for the party season. They don’t want anything too invasive but want to look younger and refreshed. We see a lot of clients asking for wrinkle/fine line reduction treatments, aesthetic facial injection therapy and our Soprano pain free hair removal treatments; in readiness for their little black dress,” says Neil.

“As we near Christmas and New Year, we find that women (and gents for that matter) need to relax before the big day arrives. That’s where our spa packages come into play. There’s nothing more relaxing and detoxifying than our exotic rituals, body wraps and Rasul and private spa bath. The perfect way to unwind and ready our minds and bodies for the festivities ahead.”

“On the beauty side of things, our 3D, New Russian and express lashes are much sought after, as well as our semi-permanent make up and CACI ultimate tightening treatments, St Tropez tanning and Geleration nails.

With these treatments taken care of, our clients will certainly be ready for the party season.”

If you need to buy a loved one a gift and are looking for something a little bit special, then a Gift Voucher from Beauty Within could make the perfect surprise gift.

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“ You will be getting the very best expertise.”

FRESHEN UP YOUR SKIN’S COMPLEXION REDUCE THOSE FINE LINES AND WRINKLES Aesthetics l Derma

FNS fractional skin needling contouring l Fractional Radio frequency l Facial/leg vein removal l Erbium fractional laser skin resurfacing l Laser IPL skin photorejuvenation l Active acne & stretch mark scarring l Skin tag removal l Rosacea l Aesthetic facial injection therapy l Silhouette Soft mini facelift l Wrinkle/fine line reduction l Enlarged pore reduction l Pigmentation l Laser tattoo removal l Chemical peels l Soprano pain free hair removal l Body

Aesthetics Derma FNS fractional skin needling Body contouring Fractional Radio frequency Facial/leg vein removal Erbium fractional laser skin resurfacing Laser IPL skin photorejuvenation Active acne & stretch mark scarring Skin tag removal Rosacea Aesthetic facial injection therapy Silhouette Soft mini facelift Wrinkle/fine line reduction Enlarged pore reduction Pigmentation Laser tattoo removal Chemical peels 3D lashes, New Russian and express lashes Soprano pain free hair removal CACI ultimate tightening treatments Day Spa Packages Exotic rituals Body wraps Elemis face and body treatments Rasul and private spa bath St Tropez tanning

Beauty & Spa l 3D

lashes, New Russian and express lashes ultimate tightening treatments l Day Spa Packages l Exotic rituals l Body wraps l Elemis face and body treatments l Rasul and private spa bath l St Tropez tanning l Geleration nails l Semi-permanent make up l Detox and body cleansing l Just for men l Mum-to-be treatments l Special Offers available l CACI

01446 774980

10 HIGH STREET

COWBRIDGE

CF71 7AG

info@beautywithinspa.co.uk www.beautywithinspa.co.uk

FREE ONSITE PARKING * FREE CONSULTATION * GIFT VOUCHERS

Cowbridge is renowned for its quality eating establishments. For those seeking home-cooked food, expertly served, in a building bursting with rustic charm, twinkly lights and a roaring fire, one name is often on everyone’s taste buds…

THE PENNY FARTHING

Walk through the double doors and you’re greeted with a dessert cabinet that never ceases to elicit rapturous oohs and aahs. We caught up with dessert chef Abi Condon to find out more.

How long have you worked at The Penny Farthing?

Three years. I started front of house as a waitress/barista. I enjoyed the creative element of making drinks with various motifs but I really wanted to become the house pastry chef. I worked alongside the previous pastry chef Alex, who had eight years’ experience and spent time learning and refining my skills with a previous employee who had been there twenty-five years.

“There’s a history of baking in the family.”

Where did your love of baking come from?

There’s a history of baking in the family - my mum made cakes for special occasions such as weddings and anniversaries, and it was helping her that ignited my passion. I still use my grandmother’s recipe for Victoria sponge which was award-winning.

I always felt I had the makings of a talented pastry chef, so I relished the opportunity to develop my skills. My aunt had a business based at home that catered for parties and my grandmother entered her creations into local competitions.

Describe your day at The Penny Farthing…

My day starts at 5.30am, which is just as well as I am a morning person! I come in at this hour to ensure I have sole use of the kitchen and to make 42

sure that all the desserts are freshly prepared and ready for when the doors open at 8.30am. Due to their popularity, preparing meringues for the pavlovas is usually my first job.

We offer three different varieties - the demand for them is high. I make sure the cake counter is fully stocked and presented well. I then set about the preparation for our sponges, quiches and Glamorgan sausages. We also get afternoon tea bookings, which I need to factor into my day’s preparation, as well as making sure any off-site sales are catered for.

What are the most popular desserts?

Salted caramel cheese cake and raspberry and hazelnut pavlova are by far our most popular. Salted caramel is a very en-vogue flavour now and the pavlova has traditionally been our top seller, probably due to its very generous proportions!

The Afternoon Teas are very popular, what is included?

Afternoon tea includes a selection of home-made desserts such as our very popular carrot cake, almond slice, scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, macaroons and vegan chocolate brownie cake. All accompanied by hand-cut bloomer sandwich selection, tea or coffee with prosecco as an optional extra - all for a very reasonable £12.95.

What makes the Penny Farthing Afternoon Tea stand out from the crowd?

I think the fact that we use the highest quality ingredients and, whenever possible, they are locally sourced.

They are home-made and freshly prepared on a daily basis, with no need to book, available Monday to Friday from 2.30pm, and Saturday from 3pm.

We always try to cater for customers with special dietary requirements, such as the gluten free desserts and the vegan chocolate brownie cake. We have an extensive range of desserts on offer so there is always something to satisfy the most discerning of tastes. Our 100% Fairtrade and organic certified coffee is also a firm favourite.

Are you working on any new recipes for the winter?

I am currently developing a new recipe for mulled cherry pie for the festive season and a new twist on an orange and apple fragipan. I am also toying with a mince pie with a meringue topping.

“Salted caramel cheese cake and raspberry and hazelnut pavlova are by far our most popular.”

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Opening Hours 8.30am - 5.00pm Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5.00pm Sunday Open for bookings on Friday and Saturday evenings throughout the month of December The Quarter Penny Café 54 High Street, Cowbridge CF71 7AH 01446 774999 manager@thepennyfarthingcowbridge.com www.townandcountrycollective.co.uk/ pennyfarthing Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

Winter is coming! And it’s important to wrap up. Luckily, for the discerning (and cunning) gentlemen among you, there’s King Fox of Cowbridge.

K ING FOX

They stock plenty of premium, bespoke menswear including Gant and Aquascutum and, apparently, are also the only stockist of John Smedley this side of the Bristol Channel.

There is a large choice of luxury apparel to keep your wardrobe looking like a GQ magazine feature and owner Leila will get you suited and booted to impress. From Gant shirts, with reflective elements that will make sure you are seen by motorists on the way home from the pub (perfect for the winter parties!), leather gloves with touchscreen use capability to Mac jeans made from jogging bottom material to ensure comfort but remain on trend.

So, with winter on its way, you can find the right gift for that dapper gentleman in your life as they not only have ranges to suit all but also have gift vouchers for the gentlemen who would prefer to choose his own.

For more information, pop in and pick up a treat…

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King Fox 6 High Street,Cowbridge CF71 7AG 01446 679085 leila@kingfox.co.uk www.kingfox.co.uk Like and follow on Facebook and Instagram @kingfoxcf71 STOCKISTS OF Alan Paine, Altea, Aquascutum, Bladen, Bruhl, Carlos Cordoba, David Watson, Gant, Gant Footwear, Giordano, G.H. Bass, Henry Arlington, John Smedley, Mac Jeans, Magee 1866, Olymp, Orlebar Brown, Pantherella, Santinelli, Stetson & Sunspel

Cowbridge welcomed a brand new pub in September. 1 Town Hall Square underwent an amazing transformation into a real ale and craft beer free house - it’s going down well.

1 TOWN H ALL SQUARE Vale Life popped over for a chat to find out a little more about what’s been happening over at Cowbridge’s trendiest free house.

How’s life at the newest pub in Cowbridge?

Things have been busy and really wonderful. We change beers after almost every barrel, so life’s like a constant beer festival. We’ve already served over eighty different draught beers from forty-one different brewers since opening; from local brews to Welsh favourites.

What’s on the menu?

No food, just a sprinkling of bar snacks to compliment our main focus of serving great beer. We have sixteen draught beer lines, not to mention a great range of ciders, whisky, spirits, wine and bubbles.

Who needs food when you have a good drink in your hand?

That said, we’ve got menus from loads of our great local eateries here in Cowbridge and encourage people to support them by ordering takeaways to be delivered here.

We’re also planning a regular Street Food Pop-Up outside in our courtyard.

A lunchtime pint is sometimes essential; can we pop over to you for one?

Absolutely, we’re open all day from 11:30am. Our goal is to blend the charm of a traditional British pub with the contemporary style of the recent craft beer boom. So, like a good old fashioned boozer, we’re open seven days a week, all day, just like our sister pub in Bridgend.

Please tell us about your sister pub…

Her name is The Coach and she’s in Bridgend. We’re the same in terms of making good beer the foundation for good times.

Wow! That’s great. So what are your plans over the next few months?

Well, we’ve already had our first Tap Takeover & Meet The Brewer, we’ll be announcing the next one very soon as well as our Street Food plans for the 6 Nations. We’ve also launched loyalty cards for our ‘Cask Clwb’ in collaboration with The Coach. Once you’ve filled up your card with nine stamps, your tenth cask ale is on us (at either pub). We’ve got a few Christmas surprises up our sleeves too, including another ‘Duck Hunt’ when, should you find one of our ducks in Cowbridge, you can return it for a free beer!

A very Merry Christmas to all readers, we hope to see you soon.

The Coach has been built around a wonderful reputation for great real ale and craft beer since 2010, so we’re really lucky to have them as a big sister - with their experience and advice on hand whenever we need it. Mind you, we’ve a long way to go to reach their beer tally though, they’ve gone past the 2,500 mark!

1 Town Hall Square Cowbridge CF71 7DD www.1townhallsquare.com hello@1townhallsquare.com Like and follow on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram @1TownHallSquare 45

Security wise, keeping your eyes on the ball at all times is made a lot easier with Cameratech.

Whatever your needs, domestic or commercial, this innovative Vale company have just the security system. You can’t put a price on peace of mind.

COMPLACENCY CAN COMMERCIAL Cameratech have been installing CCTV and alarm systems into businesses for the past fifteen years. They’ve installed systems for over seventy McDonalds stores, over a hundred Cashino stores and Bingo Halls and over sixty schools and colleges across the country.

They also look after many local customers premises such as offices, recycling plants, garden centres and various retail outlets. Many of their systems are monitored out of hours by a monitoring station promising 24hr security and Police response via a URN (Unique Response Number).

HD CCTV can assist with management control, health and safety operations, ANPR, as well as general security.

Cameratech also offer: n Crystal clear quality HD images n Outstanding infra-red night vision n Remote access from phones n Real time play back footage with zoom facility n Many weeks hard drive recording footage n Installed by CRB checked SSAIB qualified engineers n SSAIB certificate provided on completion for your insurance company

SSAIB Approved SSAIB is the ‘Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board’. They are the leading certification for security system providers and a prerequisite condition in the eyes of many insurance companies.

Cameratech’s certification is a mark of excellence, so you can trust their services are top quality and guaranteed satisfaction.

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DOMESTIC From new houses and estates to apartment blocks, country homes and rural farm buildings; like it or not, CCTV has become a necessary fixture and fitting in today’s world.

When you are away on holiday and want to check on things at home, or even answer the door bell from work, see and talk to your delivery man or visitor, you can - from anywhere in the world via a simple phone app. Surely it will become just another way of life, the same as Sat Nav and remote controls for our TVs have.

We all seem to embrace anything that makes like easier, so with the intervention of CCTV linking in with your best friend (your phone), how can you not have one! In truth, none of us have a photographic memory, so maybe it’s time to invest in one.

David & Denise Brown

BE COSTLY!

“Like it or not, CCTV has become a necessary fixture and fitting in today’s world.”

Cameratech are now installing HD CCTV and intruder alarm systems to domestic properties in The Vale of Glamorgan area with the latest high tech equipment.

Davies Homes have recently adopted their CCTV and Access Control systems as part of their specifications in their new build properties in The Vale.

“If you can’t see it, it’s not there!”

Let Cameratech give you the peace of mind with one of their systems.

Call or have a browse around their website for more information.

“Just to know that I can check exactly what and when it happened retro- spectively gives me peace of mind, especially in this day and age.”

Cameratech Projects Ltd. Foxleigh House, Trerhyngyll Cowbridge CF71 7TN 01446 775352 www.cameratechprojects.co.uk Like on Facebook @cameratechprojectsltd 47

When Charlie Gwinnell of Charlie’s Cleaners needed a few bits and bobs for the home, Happy Days Vintage Homestore in Cowbridge was able to fit the bill perfectly. Vale Life chatted to Charlie to find out more.

H APPY DAYS VINTAGE HOMESTORE

How did you hear about Happy Days Vintage Homestore?

I heard about Happy Days through one of the stallholders who sells there. I have purchased quite a lot of furniture from her in the past and she told me about Happy Days.

How often do you shop at Happy Days?

I’ve shopped there probably only in the last two years as I don’t drive so it’s not very often I can visit but I am constantly on their Facebook page!

What have you bought recently?

I’ve purchased a lovely 13 draw unit, a revamped HiFi unit that goes amazingly well in my kitchen and a three draw taller unit.

What do you love about Happy Days?

I love Happy Days because I love shabby chic and unique pieces of furniture. If I can buy a one-off piece, then I am very happy. There is so much to look at and, as I revamp furniture myself, buying Potter’s Chalk Paint there is very handy for me.

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“I love Happy Days because I love shabby chic and unique pieces of furniture.”

Happy Days Church Street, Cowbridge CF71 7BB 01446 771191 cath@happydaysvintagehomestore.co.uk www.happydaysvintagehomestore.co.uk

We have the inside scoop on where you should be going for your festive functions this winter, I scream, you scream we all scream for…

FABLAS ICE CREAM Headed up by mother and daughter pairing, Michelle and Lauren Evans, Fablas is Cowbridge’s quirkiest and ‘coolest’ venue yet.

On those chilly days you can warm up with a coffee and a little, novel ice cream to cleanse your pallet, whilst you watch the ducks stream past along the river.

With a huge variety of ice creams, you won’t be greeted with boring flavours. Their home-crafted ice cream ranges from Ferrero Rocher to Prosecco sorbet and, whatever your fancy, they have a frozen delight to tickle it.

Fablas is also available for venue hire; from Christmas parties to birthdays and even engagement parties. Whatever the occasion, Fablas promises a memorable and intimate function.

But it’s not just luxury ice creams you can fill up on as they are a fully functioning bar with over twenty cocktails to sip on. To set the scene, the parlour is situated overlooking the river that runs through the heart of Cowbridge.

Cheeseboards are the latest craze that the locals are queueing up for at the parlour. The hand-selected cheeses have hit new heights of popularity with Vale customers. They also have out-of-thisworld cocktails with luxury ice creams and sorbets and if those haven’t got your attention then their hot chocolate certainly will.

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Fablas Ice Cream Parlour The Kiosk, 9 Willow Walk Cowbridge CF71 7EE 01446 677060 Check Fablas out on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @Fablasicecreamltd

When you think of Italy you think of the food; when you think of Italian food, you think of pizza, The Yard in Cowbridge serves great pizza.

We called in to find out more...

THE YARD Someone who knows how to dish up the perfect pizza is owner of The Yard in Cowbridge, Paul Langford.

We caught up with Paul to talk about everyone’s favorite meal, Pizza!

What has the journey been like to open The Yard?

It’s been a long one. It’s taken over two years - there have been a lot of personal setbacks for us along the way. We had planning issues to deal with and the small task of a total refurbishment of the premises. I am exceptionally proud of the work done and the finished restaurant is a testament to everyone’s hard work. It took a lot of effort but we got there in the end and are welcoming you all to the restaurant.

Tell us a little about The Yard…

We make our own pizza dough. We use the finest ingredients straight from Italy; from the flour to the tomatoes - all are from Italy and even the rotating stone oven is from Italy. The only thing not from Italy is me, but I eat enough pizza so I may as well be!

What inspired you to open?

I wanted to open a family-friendly restaurant that parents and children

would love. I speak from experience when I say, with certainty, that most children love pizza! The Yard is a bright, open space that welcomes all - we aren’t too crowded so you won’t feel claustrophobic.

What is the best thing on the menu?

That’s a tough one. Possibly the Sweet Sensation; based with caramelised onions and then topped with sweet roquito peppers, crispy bacon, and sweet chili marinated chicken, finished with Italian herbs. Or you also have the Temptation of Spice; a BBQ sauce base to start, layered with Nduja sausage, chili beef and flakes with an added kick of Jalapenos and evened out with some sliced mozzarella. That said, however, I am a man of simple pleasures so you really can’t beat a good pepperoni pizza.

What can we expect in the next year from you?

We are hoping to expand the menu to making our own pasta on the site as well. We are already looking at amending the existing menu and adding some exciting new pizza options to keep everyone coming back for more!

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The Yard 3 Willow Walk Cowbridge CF71 7EE 01446 775000 Like and follow on Facebook @TheYard

HIGH QUALIT Y BEAUT Y SERVICES

Lemon Tree Nails and Beauty Cowbridge With the holiday season just around the corner why not treat yourself to all that the girls at Lemon Tree have to offer, ensuring you look and feel your best over the festive period.

Whether that’s a sparkly set of our fabulous acrylics, a glittery gel polish, or a glamorous beauty treatment. And for the person who has everything why not purchase one of our gift vouchers.

We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Unit 5, Penny Lane, Cowbridge CF71 7EG 01446 775533 www.lemontreenails.co.uk Find on Facebook and Instagram VA L E W I D E

Organic candles make the perfect gift Who doesn’t love a scented candle?

And especially at Christmas. Gauci Organic Candles are hand-made in Cardiff from good old fashioned organic soya beans and contain no nasties. Gauci’s candle guru Spiro tells us more.

What is so special about your candles then Spiro?

The wax we use is made from soybeans.

It is further enhanced with the finest carefully selected botanical oils, adding to its performance characteristics. All our candles use soy waxes and are guaranteed to contain no petroleum, paraffin or beeswax products and all the soy waxes we use in our candle making are 100% vegetable.

Where did your passion for candle making come from?

I have always had a passion for fire, flames, candles and scents. I don’t know why, but when I was little I used to visit my nan and gramps (that’s Welsh for grandmother and grandfather by the way) at their bungalow in Newport. As they were quite elderly, they would always complain it was cold so they always had a coal fire burning.

I used to sit staring into the flames for what seemed like hours just daydreaming.

Looking back, that’s probably where my fascination came from so, as soon as I was old enough, I left home and got my own place. The first thing I bought for my flat was some scented candles from The Pier in Cardiff and my new flat smelled wonderful.

Pretty soon I was experimenting with candle-making. Things were a little tight financially when I first started. I used to recycle the scented paraffin candle wax and pour into Pringle crisp containers with string hanging from the kitchen unit. I’m sure it was partly to save money but also an excuse to buy more Pringles!

At this point, I didn’t know anything about the chemical make-up of wax – my eco-friendly thinking was to come later as I looked into it in more detail.

Why is organic so important to you?

I wanted to share my passion for candles but, as I had become more environmentally aware, I also wanted to make sure that what I was creating wasn’t harming the planet. So, I researched organic soy wax and essential oils to ensure they were friendly before I went any further.

Now I have a small workshop where we make our candles and I couldn’t be happier. My vision is turning into a reality and, although we’re only a small business, we’re growing every day as new customers find us and tell their friends.

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At Gauci, we really don’t want to be the biggest candle business in the world, just the best. And, if we spread a little love and light along the way, that would be nice too - especially at Christmas.

Who buys your candles?

I have a small list of private customers.

I also stock my candles in a number of independent gift shops and salons. I’ve recently been in meetings with a couple of garden centres as well and I’m hoping so see my displays there soon.

Gauci grooming products coming soon, beard oils, beard balms and the new website www.gauciorganics.co.uk

COLOURFUL COWBRIDGE GEM

The Pencil Case Children and adults alike love the wide range of colourful pens and pencils, pencil cases, notebooks, colouring books and art supplies. It is the perfect place to treat yourself or find a gift for a stationery addict.

Harry Potter and Star Wars fans will love the film-inspired ranges. Collectors of Iwako erasers will find a huge selection to browse - don’t forget to pick up a collector card!

The Pencil Case also supplies official school uniform for Cowbridge Comprehensive School and the eight Cowbridge primary schools. You can also pick up Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers uniform, as well as ballet and gymnastics wear. It really is a ‘one stop school shop’!

The Pencil Case 50 Eastgate, Cowbridge CF71 7AB 01446 772210

T OY TA S T I C !

The Toy Box The newest addition to Cowbridge high street, bursting with toys and games for children from birth through to early teenage years.

There are gifts for new babies, wooden toys, jigsaws, baby dolls, vehicles, dinosaurs, role play, art and crafts, pocket money items and family board games, to name a few. And you won’t miss the hugely impressive selection of Ty Beanie Boo soft toys!

INDEPENDENT OPTICIANS

Norma Davies Opticians Norma Davies Opticians is a small group of independent practices that has been established in South Wales for over 40 years.

We are a family run business dedicated to providing the highest standard of eye care. In our Cowbridge Practice you will be seen by one of our husband and wife team Charlotte and Chris.

We allocate longer appointment slots to ensure that you have plenty of time with your optometrist who can also help you with spectacle & lens selection if required.

We have an extensive range of quality eye wear to suit the whole family from designer brands to more affordable ranges. We offer eye examinations, contact lens consultations, low vision assessments & emergency eye health checks.

2 Penny Lane, Masons Yard, Cowbridge CF71 7EG 01446 772074 www.normadaviesopticians.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

“We have an extensive range of quality eye wear.”

£30 OFF

any purchase of complete spectacles costing over £130 with this advert.

Offer valid until: 28th Feb of 2018 52

Both shops stock contemporary greetings cards in Welsh and English and a wide range of helium balloons.

And if you just can’t decide what to buy, why not pick up a gift voucher redeemable in either shop.

The Toy Box 2 Willow Walk Cowbridge CF71 7EE 01446 311303

PRE-NUPS & POST-NUPS Rhian Howells, Family Law Solicitor at Hopkins Law in Cowbridge talks us through pre-nups and post-nups‌ What is a prenuptial agreement?

Sometimes called a pre-nup, or prenuptial contract, it is an arrangement entered into by a couple before they get married. It is designed to regulate what should happen if a marriage breaks down ending in divorce.

If you’re planning on getting married and you or your partner’s family have an asset such as a business or farm that they want to pass on, a pre-nup can help protect it. They can also be important in second marriages, or where one or both parties have brought wealth to the marriage.

What is a postnuptial agreement?

A post-marital agreement is designed to deal with the same situation as a pre-nup. However, unlike a premarital agreement, a postnuptial agreement is entered into by the couple during their marriage.

Pre-nups and post-nups are not strictly binding in England and Wales in the same way as a commercial contract would be. However, the courts have ruled that where agreements are freely entered into by each party (with full appreciation of the implications), the court will hold the parties to the prenuptial or postnuptial agreement.

Is a pre-nup agreement the best form of wealth protection?

The best form of wealth protection from an unwanted divorce settlement is, unromantically not to get married at all. The law for cohabitants is radically different from the law relating to married couples. For those who do get married, premarital agreements are, increasingly, the best option. They are particularly useful for those starting a second marriage or marrying later in life.

Pre-nups can assist in minimising the financial and emotional impact on the family if there is a divorce.

What does a pre-nup cost in the UK? The cost of your pre-nup will depend on many factors: n How complex the agreement is likely to be n How much financial disclosure is required and whether it will require expert evidence n Whether

your partner plays a role in the negotiations or leaves everything to you n How much correspondence is sent, and the number of meetings needed to finalise the agreement 53

Hopkins Law 1 Town Hall 50-50A HighSquare Street 7DD Cowbridge CF71 7AH www.1townhallsquare.com 01446 774 151 hello@1townhallsquare.com Like and follow on Facebook, Twitter www.hopkinslawltd.com & Instagram @1TownHallSquare cowbridge@hopkinslawltd.com

Room Designs in Barry has an unenviable reputation for providing fabulous interior design services, both domestic and commercial, across south Wales. We caught up with owner Meryl Hopkin, who has over 20 years’ experience, at the shop’s two year anniversary celebrations to find out more.

ROOM DESIGNS

Beverley Williams and Meryl Hopkin

It’s been a while since we last spoke, how is Room Designs doing?

Business is doing very well, so much so that we have had to increase our numbers of staff to accommodate this. We have a really good team and some very exciting projects that we are currently working on.

What projects have you been working on?

We are currently working on a variety of different projects for the contract and retail side of our business. This is very exciting for us as we are coming up with a lot of bespoke designs.

We hear that you are moving into theming of events, who are you working with?

Beverley Williams is an old friend who has the same passion and drive as myself.

It’s something that we have both wanted to do for a very long time and now felt that the timing was right for both of us.

Why the move into events?

As we are already working within the industry it was something we often got asked about, therefore it was a natural progression into being able to offer more services that can go hand in hand with Room Designs. This has been welcomed by our existing clients who are very pleased to work with us on our exciting new venture.

What services will you be offering?

We welcome any enquiries from corporate events to weddings to baby showers, offering tailor made events for our customers with the highest level of attention to detail. We offer bespoke packages, closely working with the 54

customer to deliver their special event with the highest quality of service and personal attention.

What projects have you worked on to-date?

Our most recent projects have been wedding venue dressing, a charity event for the RNLI and we also have several bookings to start the new year.

Why would clients choose to work with you?

We have many clients that come back to us and we feel this is because we are always willing to go the extra mile.

We pride ourselves in our attention to detail. No job is too big or too small; the customer is always treated in exactly the same way. As a family run business, the most important thing to us is customer satisfaction at the end of each project.

Amanda Thomas, Isabel (4), Meryl, Sienna (4) Theo

Room Designs 42 Park Crescent Barry CF62 6HE 07801 231630 www.roomdesignsuk.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Instagram and Google+ Amy Reed, Louise Turner (Porthkerry Chiropody Practice)

Get your skin party ready!

Microdermabrasion £25 Murad Products from £30 Gift Vouchers available

MOLE REMOVAL - FINE LINES - WRINKLES - HAIR REMOVAL

Cyfoes Healthcare 67 Talbot Road, Talbot Green CF72 8AE 01443 223352 or 01443 238232 cyfoeshealthcare@gmail.com www.cyfoeshealthcare.com Follow on Facebook

Fans of The Butchers Arms and Gallery in Llantrisant will be delighted to hear of owners, Gill and Noel Garnham’s latest offering. The fabulous gallery gift shop and gorgeous café have been complemented by a new addition on the ground floor.

THE BUTCHERS ARMS & GALLERY

We have always loved the main gallery retail area, which is an emporium full of gorgeous gifts to suit all pockets.

This year, you will find designer Christmas decorations and carefully selected, seasonal gifts from Sweden and the Netherlands. Old favourites include Emma Bridgewater pottery, textiles, enamelware and stationary, Pip Studio pottery, gifts and bedding. For the magpies among you, there’s a superb selection of sterling silver jewellery with pretty semi-precious stones.

For the foodies and chocoholics, you will find a luscious range plus jams, chutneys and home-made Xmas hampers.

On the ground floor the Coffee Shop continues to offer its renowned range of super large gourmet salad sandwiches, homemade cakes and an excellent selection of hot and cold drinks.

The latest addition is the Art and Home department @ The Butchers Arms Gallery, offering fine furniture, pictures and luxurious accessories for the home, together with a Vintage Emporium with bargains galore. There’s also an art studio with artist in residence, Rhoswen Wilkinson.

You could easily spend a whole morning or afternoon here browsing, buying gifts for the home, friends, colleagues or yourself and then take the weight of your feet, shopping done, with a spot of lunch.

“You will find designer Christmas decorations.”

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Butchers Arms Gallery & Coffee Shop Old Town Llantrisant (on top of the hill) CF72 8DA Open 7 days a week (all year round) (1 mile away from the Royal Mint Combine a visit for a great day out?)

01443 229285 www.butchersarmsgallery.co.uk Facebook - Butchers Arms Gallery & Coffee Shop, Llantrisant

Malmo Hearing is a multi-award-winning family run business based in Bridgend and Newport. Mal and Mo started the business in 2007. Since then, they have expanded and now have two high street shops and several clinics throughout south Wales.

M ALMO HEARING

SUPPORTS HEARING MISSION IN ARMENIA

Malmo offer free hearing aid assessments and demonstrations, the latest 21st century bespoke hearing aids, a full range of hearing aid accessories and assistive devices, microsuction ear wax removal, tinnitus advice and custom-made hearing protection. They also provide medical legal assessments for noise induced hearing loss claims.

Jakub Wiatr, 20, is the office manager and hearing aid technician based in their Bridgend branch. He has been working with Malmo Hearing for six years. “I started with Malmo on work experience as part of my Business & Administration course.

Since then, I have attended numerous training courses associated with the hearing profession and in January I will be starting my own journey towards becoming a fully qualified and registered hearing aid audiologist. At Malmo Hearing, we don’t sell hearing aids, we sell better hearing.

Malmo work closely with Starkey Laboratories, an international hearing aid manufacturer with a UK base in Stockport, Cheshire. Starkey also founded the Starkey Hearing Foundation in 1984. The foundation is run by the founder and chairman of Starkey, William F Austin. The purpose of this foundation is to provide the gift of hearing to those in need ‘so the world may hear’, because “Alone we can’t do much. Together we can change the world.”

The latest foundation mission was in Armenia in October 2017. It was the 107th country to have been supported by the foundation. This mission helped over 1,800 people to be fitted with hearing aids donated worldwide to the foundation. Jakub says, “When Malmo Hearing was invited to attend, it was a great honour as we were one of only ten UK based audiologists asked to be a part of the UK’s first foundation mission. As the owner and lead audiologist, I thought Mal would represent Malmo in the best way possible, but he decided to give me the opportunity to represent Malmo instead. I was nervous, but excited, I knew the purpose of this mission was to help people, which is my passion, and what I do every day.”

“Malmo Hearing, local hearing care for local people. Better Hearing Today, Better Hearing Tomorrow.”

“The mission, I attended, was for the fitting of the hearing aids donated worldwide. This was carried out in the capital city, Yerevan, over 3 days. I experienced so much praise and I saw so many smiles which was just amazing and so rewarding.

We focus on each individual and listen to their experience of hearing loss as everybody’s story is different,” says Jakub. “Helping people is our passion and it’s truly amazing to see how we transform lives of so many who have been struggling with hearing loss.”

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Jakub giving the ‘gift of hearing’ to Armenia

We fitted hearing aids to around 1,800 Armenians from all over the country and they were all so grateful for all the work we had done. They hugged and kissed us as these people were finally able to hear and enjoy life without the struggle that is associated with hearing loss. With the help of volunteers from local schools to translate, we were able to communicate with the patients and help so many of them.

“This is not the end of the mission yet as some of us will go back to Yerevan in few months’ time for phase three which will focus on making sure people are coping with their hearing aids and make any adjustments needed.”

Jakub added, “If you would like to donate your old hearing aids to the Starkey Hearing Foundation, you can take them to Malmo Hearing and they will send them to the foundation. It doesn’t matter how old or damaged they are, they can still be used.”

To find out a bit more about the Starkey UK and the Starkey Hearing Foundation, go to www.starkeyhearingfoundation.org To find out more about Malmo Hearing and the hearing services they provide throughout South Wales call us on 01656 652444 or 01633 263784 or go to www.malmohearing.co.uk

Malmo Hearing 6 Derwen Road, Bridgend, CF31 1LH 01656 652444 www.malmohearing.co.uk info@bridgend-hearing.co.uk

Like and follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Other Malmo Hearing Clinics n Aberdare

n Dinas

n Blackwood

n Pontypool

n Barry

n Caerphilly

n Cowbridge 59

Powys

n Newport

n Talbot Green n Treorchy

2017 has seen a massive surge in the popularity of craft beers and ales. The demand has grown so large that there is plenty to choose from. At Vale Life we like to keep things local and support Welsh businesses, this is something we share with the owner of This Is Beer, Richard Morris.

THIS IS BEER

Richard, please tell us a little about the business?

We started wholesaling Welsh bottled beer back in 2015 and the business has really grown from there. We launched our online shop a year ago and, in June this year, we opened This is Beer in Porthcawl.

The shop is the newest addition.

Our aim was really to create something a bit different and offer something people won’t find in the supermarkets - what we’ve ended up with is a bottle shop and mini bar with a few taps, selling real ales and craft beers from all over Wales and around the world, as well as a selection of ciders, spirits and unique wines. People can buy straight off the shelf and enjoy in-house or stock up.

Through our wholesale business Tayst sell craft beers, real ales, ciders and spirits from a range of breweries across Wales, England, Ireland and Northern Ireland.

We’ve also just opened a small shop in our warehouse in Bridgend, where you can purchase our entire range.

What’s the feedback been like since you’ve opened?

We’ve had a great response from locals and tourists alike. Welsh beer is gaining more recognition and we’ve certainly seen lots of interest in craft beers and real ales, and the other products we stock like ciders, spirits, and wine.

We’re not purely a bar, so we’re not open late (8pm on weeknights and 5pm on Sundays) and I think that helps to create a nice atmosphere for shoppers, and those popping in for a quick drink.

Closer to Christmas we’ll be opening a bit later though.

“Even if you’re not normally a beer drinker there’s bound to be something for you.”

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Why do you think craft beer and real ales are so popular right now?

I think, essentially, beer has become interesting again. When you look back at the binge drinking culture of the nineties and noughties where people drank to get drunk, there wasn’t a huge variety on offer.

We’ve really started to move on.

It’s not just about drinking to get drunk anymore, it’s about allowing people to have conversations about good quality beer. We know that not everybody likes beer, but what we’d encourage everyone to do is to step out of their comfort zone just for a bit and try something new.

There are now so many different styles and varieties to try, that even if you’re not normallly a beer drinker there’s bound to be something for you.

That’s why we’ve started to run tasting evenings and a beer club.

You’ve given us your top picks in the shop right now, but what do you look for in a beer?

I’m a bit of a craft beer cliché because I really love the fruity, hoppy beers but at the moment I’m enjoying sour beers as well. Really, I just enjoy finding beers that are a bit different!

You’re obviously very passionate about what you do, what’s the inspiration behind this?

Getting into beer just sort of happened really - I started off selling sauces in the Welsh food markets and became friendly with lots of independent brewers. I began wholesaling Welsh food and a few beers and gradually noticed the beer was selling well so that ended up being my focus, things have just grown from there.

I also did my fair share of drinking while playing in bands when I was younger so the opportunity to sell beer for a living seemed like a bit of a dream for me!

You also have an online shop and distribute beer all-over tell us more...

We launched the online shop last year and sell direct to customers across the UK, mainland Europe, and North America. There is a huge appetite for craft beer and real ale, which some people don’t have access to, so it’s great to be able to help people access smaller independent breweries. There also seems to be a big Welsh ex-pat population out there!

We also sell to trade customers all across south and west Wales and the west of England, through the wholesale business Tayst. We’re always looking to get more people into the beer scene so you can contact us directly for wholesale enquiries.

“Our aim was to create something a bit different.”

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This Is Beer 9 Lias Road, Porthcawl CF36 3AH www.ThisisBeer.co.uk Instagram @ThisisBeerOnline Facebook @ThisisBeerOnline Twitter @_ThisisBeer_ Tayst (wholesale) Unit 5 Eastlake Close Litchard Industrial Estate Bridgend CF31 2AL www.Tayst.co.uk

COLLECT THEM ALL

Top Hat Antiques and Collectables If you are on the hunt for exciting antiques and collectables there is only one place to visit, and it’s here in Porthcawl.

Offering Antiques, collectables, and retro furniture. Come and see us at Resolven Market every Saturday.

66 New Road Porthcawl CF36 5DG 07570 999 666

THIRT Y YEARS OF SERVICE

Porthcawl Furnishing There is only one place to visit when taking on some home improvements, and its right here in Porthcawl.

Porthcawl Furnishing is the family run furnishing and upholstery company that have been helping the people of Porthcawl, Bridgend, and the Vale for more than three decades.

So when looking for services that deal with flooring, beds and blinds, carpets, upholstery, re-upholstery, or a professional repair service, there is only one shop that you need to visit.

51 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DH www.porthcawlfurnishings.co.uk 01656 771608 Like on Facebook R AW TA S T I C

H A P P Y TA I L S D O G G RO O M I N G

All Natural Pet Food

Pamper your best friend!

Bring your pets to our store and we’ll give them VIP treatment while you shop!

Treat your pooch to ultimate pamper session and get them looking thier best!

n Test

our products a tasty treat n Pick up some essentials n Have fun!

n 15

n Grab

n Bathing

01656 788209 www.rawtasticporthcawl.co.uk 56 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DG

01656 789391 www.happytailsporthcawl.co.uk 56 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DG

years experience

n Cutting n Trimming

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LITTLE BIG BOUTIQUE

A beautiful boutique with lots to choose from!

This pretty and petite Porthcawl boutique is perfect if you’re looking for something different and fabulous!

Little Big Boutique stocks: n Ladies Clothing (sizes 8 -26) n Jewellery n Bags n Shoes n Accessories Little Big Boutique 32 New Road, Porthcawl CF36 5DN 01656 856474 Website coming soon! www.littlebigboutique.co.uk

l Tax

& Financial Planning Finance l Book Keeping l Payroll l Financial Planning l Mortgage Advice l Employment Law l Debt Management l Corporate

01656 773782 or 0845 873 1419 www.jhbbusinessservices.co.uk

32 New Road, Porthcawl Bridgend CF36 5DN

Your Partner for Successful Growth !

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S E A S O N A L S U S TA I N A B L E S E A FO O D

The Fishmonger’s Cat With daily deliveries sourced from around the UK, you will typically find over 20 different types of fresh fish and shellfish on the counter to choose from including cockles and laverbread.

Bringing you the best in seasonal and sustainable seafood, The Fishmonger’s Cat offers an ever-expanding range of homemade fishy dishes to take away including, fishcakes, tarts and pasties. The latest hit being homemade smoked haddock lasagne, alongside the traditional offering and services of a great quality fishmonger.

14 John Street, Porthcawl CF36 3BA www.thefishmongerscat.co.uk 01656 859501 Like on Facebook

BEARD COMBS FROM £3

BEARD BALMS £4

TEES FROM £14

AND OTHER STUFF

O R I G I N A L & H A N D C R A F T E D I N WA L E S

W W W. B R A S S K N U C K S A P PA R E L .CO. U K B R A S S K N U C K S A P PA R E L

A WELSH BRAND

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E S TA B L I S H E D 2 0 1 6

Merry Christmas & A Prosperous New Year NEW YEARS EVE PARTY 7pm - 2018 Join us in welcoming 2018.

Live music from the fantastic Aubrey.

Bar area open as usual.

£50 - Adult

|

£30 - Children

KITCHEN MADE SOUP (v) crusty bread, Welsh butter

LAMB & PERL LAS ARANCINI

lamb & Perl Las risotto ball, creamed leeks, homemade smoky tomato & basil ketchup

QUEEN SCALLOPS

black pudding brandade, purée & crumb, crisp Carmarthen ham & sage emulsion

KING PRAWNS, GARLIC & CHILLI BUTTER

roasted vine tomatoes & chorizo cassoulet, sun dried tomato croûtons

GOAT’S CHEESE & PEARL BARLEY RISOTTO (v) baby beetroot, toasted walnuts, walnut oil

FILLET OF STONE BASS

sesame & chilli greens, sea salt & szechuan pepper potato, light Thai infused cream sauce

RUMP OF WELSH LAMB

farmhouse cabbage, creamed potato, smoky garlic jus

BREAST OF DUCK

honey glazed breast of duck, fondant potato, braised red cabbage, baby vegetables, pickled cherries & thyme essence

FILLET OF HALIBUT

braised leek, brown shrimp, lemon carrots, crushed Pembroke potato & tarragon velouté

21 DAY AGED 10oz RIB EYE

HBK unique steak rub, roasted balsamic tomatoes, portobello mushroom, pea shoots, chunky chips OR skinny fries, choice of sauce

WILD MUSHROOM & BUTTERNUT SQUASH RISOTTO (v) fuzzy pea shoot, basil oil

CRÈME BRÛLÉE shortbread biscuit APPLE CRUMBLE MOUSSE shortbread, almond coconut crumbs, cinnamon CHEESE FROM THE AREA fruit, chutney, biscuits COFFEE & TRUFFLES

www. harbourbarandkitchen .co.uk 01656 786175

/harbourbarandkitchenporthcawl

@harbourbarkitchenporthcawl

@harbourbk

HARBOUR CHRISTMAS GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

If you ask most parents why they chose to send their child to a private school, the answer is because they believe that their child will a) receive a better standard of education, b) have better opportunities for future careers, c) be more disciplined and d) benefit from smaller pupil-teacher ratios.

ST. CLARE’S SCHOOL Vale Life chats to Simon Antwis, Headmaster at St. Clare’s School in Porthcawl, to find out more.

Who does the school cater for?

We are a non-selective independent school for boys and girls aged 3 up to 18. We have many students leave our Sixth Form at the end of Year 13 who have been with us since their Nursery days.

St. Clare’s School has recently been able to celebrate its performance in the ALIS Value Added data report for 2017 A-Level exams.

What is ALIS? ALIS (Advanced Level Information System) Value-Added analysis tells us how likely students are to achieve particular subject grades as they set out on the journey to post-16 qualifications, and is based upon a child’s average GCSE score and a baseline test. This data allows us to predict what A-Level results each of our students are likely to achieve and, at St. Clare’s, to aim to better those outcomes.

What does this actually mean for students?

This analysis shows that due to factors such as smaller class sizes, more individual attention and exceptional teaching at St. Clare’s, a student typically expected to achieve BBB grades is actually more likely to achieve ABB with us.

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This could make all the difference when it comes to UCAS applications and perhaps see students gaining that Russell Group place they wouldn’t otherwise get.

This graph shows the normal distribution for every single school across the UK, both state and independent, and demonstrates just how far above “the average” St Clare’s School is currently sitting for A-Level results.

“In 2017 St. Clare’s out-performed a huge 78% of schools in adding value to a student’s performance with an Average Standard Residual of +0.2!”

M AKES THE GRADE

“I am absolutely delighted with my results. Before Sixth Form I would never have believed I would be opening an envelope to see grades like this.”

Josh Williams, 2017

St Clare’s School Newton, Porthcawl CF36 5NR 01656 782509 01656 789966 (Admissions) In 2017, Josh Williams was predicted BBB but was delighted to achieve AAA grades

In 2017, Thomas Hood was predicted BBB but was delighted to achieve AAA grades

In 2017, Matthew Gray was predicted CDD but was delighted to achieve BBD grades 67

www.stclares-school.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter @stclares_school

Technology is changing fast in the medical world, especially in the MRI scanning sector.

EUROPEAN

The European Scanning Centre looks more like a boutique hotel than a medical centre. We met with manager Melanie to find out more.

He has a large clinical practice which has given him considerable insight into the needs of referring clinicians ensuring the ESC delivers a first class imaging service.

Please tell us about the facility...

The facility in Cardiff comprises of a new Open and Upright MRI Scanner, the only one of its type in Wales. n The scanner is completely open above and to the front and rear, thereby avoiding claustrophobia. n Patients can be scanned in their position of pain whether it is sitting, standing, bending or lying down. n Extra wide space ensures larger patients feel comfortable and relaxed during the scan.

Please tell us about the ESC team...

Melanie is Centre Manager along with two Radiographers (Carol-Ann and Ria).

The Reception staff are Lisa and Nicola.

How long has the European Scanning Centre been in operation?

Since 2003. The ESC has developed a reputation for providing a high quality and professional imaging service.

Dr Paul Jenkins MA MD FRCP is the Medical Director of European Scanning Centre and also a Consultant Physician and Endocrinologist. He graduated from Cambridge University and The Royal London Hospital before undertaking specialist training at St Bartholomew’s Hospital.

The Radiographers have many years experience of working in MRI scanners across South Wales - both in the NHS and private sector. Melanie previously worked in the Open MRI scanner, which was in the same premises as European Scanning Centre, for over fifteen years.

Tell us about the ambience and interior décor of the centre...

The Centre has been carefully designed with patient comfort at the forefront with a warm and welcoming reception area and staff who have been specially chosen for their ability to put patients at ease. We have invested in a five star environment where the emphasis is on patient comfort & relaxation. Whilst being scanned, patients are able to watch television, listen to the radio or are welcome to bring in their music of choice.

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Two way audio facilities allow our radiographers to communicate and reassure patients during their scan and the viewing window ensures that both the patient and the radiographer are always in the line of vision.

How does the scanner work?

The scanner is a large super conducting magnet - it is the only superconductive MRI scanner that enables fully open and upright imaging of the spine and joints, allowing patients to be scanned in a non claustrophobic and full weight bearing position. Imaging in the sitting or standing position can provide a more accurate diagnosis thus improving overall patient outcome.

It is a more patient friendly scanner than the usual tunnel scanners - so more suited to patients who are anxious, claustrophobic or are unable to lie down.

How much does the scanner cost?

The refurbishment of the centre and new scanner has cost almost £2m. It’s a considerable investment but worth every penny as the benefits to patients’ wellbeing are well worth it.

SCANNING CENTRE Why do patients choose the scanner?

The scanner is U shaped so is open above the patient unlike closed MRI scanners thereby avoiding any sense of claustrophobia.

How long does the scan take?

Each part we scan takes approx thirty minutes but we allow more time for the appointment so that patients can get comfortable in the scan room.

Do I need a doctor’s referral?

Ideally it is better to be referred for a scan by your GP, a consultant, physiotherapist, chiropractor or osteopath. However we do accept self referrals for certain scans.

Where do your patients come from?

The majority of our patients come from all over Wales and the West Country as there are very few of these scanners in operation. But we have also scanned patients from overseas including Ireland and the Middle East.

How quickly are results generated?

We aim to get the results back to the referrer within forty-eight hours.

How many patients can you see?

It depends on the part of the body and how many areas we need to examine.

We tailor appointments to suit the needs of the patient as some patients have specific mobility issues or other needs that need extra time. We don’t want to rush our patients as many need more time for the examination than the standard closed MRI scanner due to claustrophobia or mobility issues.

How do your fees compare?

The ESC is recognised by all the major insurers. We aim to be as competitive as possible in our pricing and do not seek to charge a premium for the specialist services we offer. The self pay cost depends on the number of areas being scanned - however our prices are competitive to other open MRI scanners. We don’t profess to be a provider of “conveyor belt scanning” as we tailor our service to provide the extra time and support for patients to be able complete their scan.

“The scanner is U shaped so is open above... thereby avoiding any sense of claustrophobia.”

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TESTIMONIALS

What practitioners and patients say...

Patients report feeling reassured by the calm environment and friendly staff.

Excellent service with timely reporting.

Dr D Rajender Kumar Audiovestibular Medicine The whole experience made me feel at ease which was down to the staff and the environment. Thank you very much.

Mark Owen Friendly, polite and professional staff that put me at ease from the minute I arrived. I would highly recommend their services. A completely different experience to one I had at a previous hospital.

Catherine Rush European Scanning Centre Cardiff Cardiff Gate Business Park Unit G, Copse Walk, Cardiff CF23 8RB 02922 362 475 www.europeanscanning.com

Alex Richards and Andrew Farmer

It’s been another incredible year for Alexander James of Swansea. As the company’s reputation has been growing, primarily, from its many happy customers.

Mr and Mrs Lewis of Cowbridge are one of these and are now fully ensconced in their stunning new home.

“Our favourite feature has got to be the bi-folding doors. When they are opened up fully on a sunny day, the uninterrupted elevation brings in a tremendous amount of light and you feel that you are part of the outdoor landscape.”

“Several people have asked who did our doors and windows installation and we have passed on Alexander James’s contact details without hesitation.”

“Our favourite feature has got to be the bi-folding doors. When they are opened up fully on a sunny day.”

70

A LEXANDER JAMES Alexander James Unit 3A Ashmount Business Park Upper Forest Way Swansea, SA6 8QR 01792 794549 sales@alexanderjamesbifold.co.uk www.aai.wales 71

The trees are bare, the nights are drawing in and a nip of frost spikes the air. The glow of Summer has faded fast and the golden leaves of autumn have all but disappeared.

LEWIS BALLARD It’s winter - the time for pulling on cosy jumpers and snuggling up in front of a glowing fire to write your Christmas list.

In the exciting frenzy of choosing party outfits, scouting gifts and planning the holiday season with family and friends, it’s tempting to forget about everything else and leave more serious matters until the new year.

Yet, Neil Ballard from Lewis Ballard Accountants reminds us that for the self-employed and landlords, hot on the heels of St Nick comes a far less friendly and more Grinch like figure. It’s the taxman and he wants your tax return filed and your tax paid. He’s making a list and he won’t be checking it twice.

Miss the 31st January deadline and you’ll be straight on his naughty list.

Wait until the new year to look for tax advice and you may find yourself out of luck. Last year almost half of 11.26 million tax returns filed were submitted in January and this year it’s likely to be even more. So hard pressed accountants may very well resemble Charles Dicken’s mild mannered, but over worked clerk, Bob Cratchit or worse still, may be as welcoming to your late requests as old Ebenezer Scrooge himself.

You could do it yourself of course, but with no expert advice, if you run into difficulties, you can easily miss out on allowances and end up paying extra tax.

Or you could wait until February for help and face late filing penalties and fines instead.

You may even file it on time, but owe more tax than you expected, just when your Christmas credit card bills are due to be paid. Suddenly that wonderful new year is looking anything but.

Yet as Neil states ‘It doesn’t have to be that way. Getting your tax affairs sorted now means you can budget for your tax bill and enjoy the season of good will, stress free (over excited children and family rows excluded, of course).’

At Lewis Ballard we’ll ensure you enjoy the festive season, without worrying about unclear tax bills and looming deadlines. After-all, when New Year’s Eve is over, and your hangover is clearing, you’ll want to enjoy a happy and prosperous new year not a frantic scramble to meet submission and payment deadlines.

As Xero platinum members and recent finalists at the Xero National Awards Lewis Ballard have all the expertise you’ll need to become ready for the digital age. So, whether it’s the longterm digital challenge or a short-term tax return issue, just give us a jingle on the phone and we’ll make sure your future stays merry and bright.

“ Neil also recommends that when you’re listing your new year’s resolutions, put ‘keeping my records digitally’ at the top.”

Neil also recommends that when you’re listing your new year’s resolutions, put ‘keeping my records digitally’ at the top.

Making tax digital for Personal Tax may have been put on hold until 2020, but the need to submit VAT and Corporation Tax digitally is coming much sooner and these changes can’t be ignored. Quarterly submissions will soon be reality and all businesses will need to embrace this digital challenge and leave the hand-written ledgers to Ebenezer and Bob. 72

Lewis Ballard Celtic House, Caxton Place, Pentwyn Cardiff CF23 8HA 02920 735502 info@lewisballard.co.uk www.lewisballard.co.uk

Neil and Janet Ballard

Welcome to the exclusive world of Perfect Day Wedding Car Ltd where on this, possibly one of the most important and memorable days of your future lives together, your professional hosts, Alun and Alison Hughes, together with their fully trained and smartly uniformed Chauffeurs, will do all that is possible to further enhance the overall magic that a special wedding day can bring.

Unit 3, Ely Valley Business Park, Pontyclun, R.C.T. CF72 9DZ

Office: 01443 222270

Alison: 07970 967902

Alun: 07875 372800

www.perfectdayweddingcar.co.uk info@perfectdayweddingcar.co.uk

CHRISTMAS IS DELICIOUS AT COBBLES Situated in a gorgeous 17th Century barn on the cusp of The Vale of Glamorgan, you’ll find the little gem that is Cobbles. We spoke to owner Chloe Francis to find out more.

The Kitchen & Deli serves tastetempting Breakfast and Lunches, with specials to surprise you on the daily. All the ingredients are locally sourced so you know exactly where each mouthful is from!

They’ve recently been undergoing some renovations that mean you can now dine under the blanket of darkness as they are open evenings, all possible with the help of a grant from the Welsh Government.

That’s not the only exciting news as they prepare for a busy calendar in the run up to Christmas.

“You’re guaranteed a delicious meal in stunning surroundings looked after by great staff.”

Tell us about the idea behind Cobbles?

I grew up around food, both my grandparents ran tearooms and my aunt and uncle owned a restaurant so it’s been a constant feature throughout my life, I always dreamed of doing it myself one day. I’ve always had a passion for cooking even whilst growing up.

I wanted to infuse that passion into Cobbles.

What makes you so popular?

I think it’s a combination of location, the building, staff and of course the food. We’re really lucky and proud to call our home Ty Maen Farm Buildings.

The farm itself dates back to 1535 and the barns are all Grade II listed so full of character and charm! Our chefs were born to be chefs; they’re doing what they wanted to do when they were kids - it’s their calling.

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We’ve got a beautiful balance of elements and we all enjoy being at Cobbles and I think it shows.

What can diners expect?

We’re open from breakfast till bedtime; so whether you are stopping by after a stroll across the beach to enjoy our Brecwast Fawr, or coming to enjoy an evening of songs and supper, you can expect a seasonal menu of exceptional dishes accompanied by a live acoustic performance from the mezzanine above the dining area.

Whatever the reason for your visit you’re guaranteed a delicious meal in stunning surroundings looked after by great staff.

Talk to us about the Deli?

I opened the Deli in one of the smaller barns in June last year, the café has been up and running for just 6 months.

I’d noticed a definite trend in customers that are concerned and interested in the provenance of their food. I also noticed a lack of local independent retail outlets that you could pick up Welsh produce, so I decided to open the Deli.

We offer a platform to local farmers and producers as well as offering the customers a place to pick up their bread, eggs, milk, and beer and not forgetting our famous homemade pies and cakes too.

Cobbles Kitchen & Deli Ty Maen Farm Buildings Ogmore by Sea Vale of Glamorgan CF32 0QP

What drives you to do what you do each day?

I absolutely love doing what I do.

I think it’s this passion that drives me day in day out. I don’t get bored as we’re constantly evolving and growing. Being independent means we can make changes, we can mix it up and keep things fresh and exciting…

I love it!

01656 646361 www.cobbleskitchen.co.uk Check out their blog and like and follow their social media pages 77

If you’ve owned a polycarbonate roof on your conservatory, then you will know the frustrations of not being able to use it due to its many issues. Mr and Mrs Davies of Sully had this dilemma and turned to Future Ideal Homes for a solution.

THE FUTURE’S BRIGHT

The couple have lived in their lovely property in Sully for fourteen years and have also lived with a conservatory which was too hot to enjoy in the summer, and too cold to sit in during the winter. They had tried covering the roof with a special plastic covering to try and stop the glare and heat, with not much effect.

The noise from the wind, rain and even birds was a constant annoyance.

The room was only ever a good airing cupboard or a room for their beloved dogs which was a waste, as it looks out onto their pretty garden.

After reading an article in Vale Life magazine, they contacted Future.

Mr. Davies said, “The old saying is true.

You can judge a farmer by his gates.”

And after meeting co-owner Craig Harewood, I immediately warmed to him.

He was welcoming and helpful and arranged for us to visit a customer who they had recently worked with.

We also liked the fact that he wouldn’t barter, which to us, showed that he was confident with his pricing.

They can now enjoy the room as it should be used- another room to the house. It’s clear that it now feels like a room they can enjoy. Their dogs seem to enjoy it too!

Replacing the roof, plastering and painting took less than two weeks to complete. The company were very clean, prompt and accommodating. We were surprised how they managed to make the roof fit as it was clear that it wasn’t a standard shape to begin with. When a small leak appeared shortly after, Future were back within days to fix the problem.

Future Ideal Homes Ltd Unit 4, Priority Workshops Ty Verlon Industrial Estate Barry CF63 2BE

The couple are delighted with the transformation. No longer does the sun stream in and beat down on their heads!

Opening hours Mon-Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 10am-1pm

“ Very clean, prompt and accommodating.”

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Free phone 0800 032 0921 01446 733455 futureidealhomesltd@gmail.com www.futureidealhomesltd.co.uk

Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter and Linkedin

Sadly, there are more than 100,000 divorces in the UK each year and in January each year, the newspapers report of ‘D Day’ or ‘Divorce Day’ which is generally the first working day after the children have returned to school following the Christmas break.

Melanie & Madeline Image taken at Cae Court

MELANIE L A ZARUS It is said that many people get in touch with a Family Law Solicitor about starting Divorce Proceedings or ending a relationship.

the Christmas period which is a catalyst that pushes many over the edge.

However, as one national journalist has said “is there any truth in this or as some cynically say, is this the equivalent of Divorce Solicitors’ January sales, designed to target couples who are vulnerable and are thinking of discarding the shackles of a stale and unpleasant relationship?”

Melanie Lazarus says “Unfortunately, our figures show that the January divorce spike is not a myth. Some clients have made appointments in December with a view to starting divorce proceedings in the New Year whilst other clients book appointments in early January having experienced a bad period over the Xmas break and realise that they want to make a fresh start in the New Year”

In our firm, there is definitely a sharp rise in new enquiries and new clients in the month of January. This is without doubt our busiest time of year. We believe that for many people, January signifies a fresh start, New Year resolutions have been made and many people feel that Christmas is out of the way and they no longer have to maintain a brave face in the run up to and over

The reality is that there is never really a right time to make the decision that a marriage or relationship is over. If, however, you believe that you have made that decision or may be thinking about it, and need a consultation to discuss the way forward with one of our experienced and specialist Family Law Solicitors, then please get in touch and we can provide you with discreet 79

legal advice to ensure that you end your relationship in the most dignified and cost effective way, achieving your realistic goals.

We offer a fixed fee initial consultation for one hour at our Bridgend Office with either our Melanie Lazarus or Madeline Rand during which we can help you move forward with your life.

“We believe that for many people, January signifies a fresh start” Melanie Lazarus & Co 38 - 40 Nolton Street Bridgend CF31 3BN 01656 750888 www.mlsolicitors.com

The Vale of Glamorgan is not short of excellent pubs. One pub that really shines is The Star Inn at Wick. Opened in 2012 by landlady Emily Francis, the pub has since gained many accolades; being heavily featured within the CAMRA Good Pub Guide, and nominated for awards within the guide - it also goes down a storm with locals.

A R EAL STAR

They had a major refurbishment last year to mark their fourth anniversary, this meant a well needed increase in capacity for their Sunday lunches, which are incredibly popular, as well as a new pool room.

There is a fantastic menu to satisfy your appetite and calm the hunger gremlins.

There are plenty of generously portioned homemade meals available, including a lunchtime menu, complete with an over 60s discount.

They also offer a full a la carte menu - you can even stock up with filling steak offers every Thursday 6pm to 9pm (although the full menu is also available). They do recommended booking as it can be a popular evening and, at the time of booking, you can also pre-order any steak at any size!

With Christmas soon to be in full swing it’s about time you start thinking about whetting your festive appetite - The Star has a fantastic Christmas menu that will have something to suit everyone in your party! If you’re in charge of booking your works’ Christmas party or booking a family get together why not give The Star a call, pick up a pre-order form and get your party booked in!

Don’t just take it from us, here’s what others have said…

“Lovely traditional Sunday lunch today at The Star, Wick - both enjoyed, will be back soon.”

“Popped in for an evening meal whilst on a short break with family last Wednesday. Lovely pub, lovely staff, excellent food and beer.

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We had a very enjoyable evening and we would all recommend The Star Inn as the place to go.”

“Plenty of generously portioned homemade meals available.”

Kitchen Opening Times Wednesday to Saturday 12 noon - 2.30pm, 6pm - 9pm Sunday 12 noon - 5pm The Star Inn Ewenny Road, Wick, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7QA 01656 890080 thestarinn.wick@gmail.com www.thestarinnwick.co.uk Like and follow on Facebook

Tel: 01656 741443

@pylegardenvillage

www.thepylegardencentre.co.uk

restaurant

Salon Loulou H A I R

A N D

B E A U T Y

&

Christmas at Pyle Garden Village Tel: 01656 741443

@pylegardenvillage

www.thepylegardencentre.co.uk

DATES F OR

restaurant

The Olive Tree has grown into a hugely popular restaurant with an extensive selection of home-grown dishes. Diners can enjoy our British-European menu open for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea with the fully-licensed restaurant also available for evening parties and events. After shopping for plants and garden products it’s the perfect place to meet friends in a relaxed setting.

YOUR

DIARY Decemb er 1st & 2nd Tree fest – open ti 9th-24th ll 8pm Breakfas t & Tea w ith Santa every we ekend 24th Christma s Eve 25th Christma s Day (clo 26th sed) Boxing D a y (closed 31st ) New Yea r ’s Eve January 1st New Yea r ’s Day (c 5th losed) National Sausage 27th day Chocolate cake day February 5th Yorkshire Pudding 13th day Pancake day 14th Valentine ’s Day

Tel: 01656 741443

@pylegardenvillage

www.thepylegardencentre.co.uk

Christmas at Pyle Garden Village Santa’s Grotto Open from Sunday 26th November 2017 £6.99 Per Child

Breakfast & Tea with Santa Adults £6.99 each Children £12.99 each

Treefest

Friday 1st December 2017 and Saturday 2nd December 2017

20% off trees and decorations Olive Tree Open till 8pm

See instore, on facebook or our website for details.

Loulou Boutique An oasis of beautiful womens’ clothing and stylish accessories.

Leaf Interiors Be inspired with a wonderful array of Christmas furnishings and giftware.

Pamper Sessions Prep for your party with our glam squad team.

Planning Ahead Prepare for spring with our fantastic bulb collection.

Olive Tree Treat yourself to afternoon tea with a friend.

Tel: 01656 741443

@pylegardenvillage

www.thepylegardencentre.co.uk

restaurant

The

Restaurant

Woodwork is the one-stop shop

Leaf

invites you to dine in our glass

for all your landscape and garden

October

house restaurant or outside on

products.

Karen, two friends who shared a

the

Olive

veranda

Tree

overlooking

the

Interiors 2013

was by

started Sally

in and

love for home decor and began

plant area eating alfresco. Enjoy

From garden sheds, fencing, trellis

making customised curtains for

our

menu

panels, timber planters and furni-

their friends. Their hobby quickly

open for breakfast, lunch and

ture, Woodwork has now added

evolved into a business as they

afternoon tea.

stoneware, gravels, paving stones

began taking orders for their

and water features to its ranges.

creations and they soon began

British-European

It has become a hugely popular

adding other home accessories

attraction in the garden village. A

Sourcing stock at the best prices

perfect place to shop, relax and

means that customers will benefit

treat yourself to breakfast, snack

from the savings offered by those

We’re not on the high street and

or lunch.

reductions.

that’s just how we want it to be.

and furnishings to their inventory.

We aim to focus on delivering our customers the best services and products in a market and environment that we understand.

Petstop offer a range of pets

Salon Lou Lou will celebrate a

Loulou Boutique is now firmly

including

rats,

successful first year in business

established as a leading boutique

hamsters, lizards and turtles. As

in December, which has seen a

with a collaboration of brands.

well as this they stock a wide

promising upturn in its client base.

Womenswear styles, shapes are

variety of branded pet food for all

It offers a sleek, modern environ-

constantly changing and Loulou

different types of animals. They

ment with friendly, skilled staff

reflects a comprehensive range

also offer toys and pet accesso-

who will consult throughly before

of casual to smart clothing with

ries. All of this comes alongside

they work their magic on clients.

names like Joseph Ribkoff, Naya,

birds,

rabbits,

friendly advice on what’s best for your pet.

Rino & Pelle, Masai, Alex Max to The innovative hair, barber, nail

name a few. It also stocks fabu-

and beauty salon is the latest

lous

addition to the home and life-

together with a warm welcome

style shops based at Pyle Garden

and friendly advice whenever you

Village.

call in.

To mark it’s first year anniversary, Salon Loulou will be offering special prices on all treatments with a glass of fizz throughout December.

Jewellery,

bags,

scarves

Tel: 01656 741443

@pylegardenvillage

www.thepylegardencentre.co.uk

&

Aqualogic is a small team of dedi-

Regardless of breed, size and age,

Never compromising on quality,

cated fish keepers, with over 35

we welcome all pets to Paws Galore

coupled with a before and after

years of trade experience. We

Dog Grooming salon. Before your

sales service that is second to

have a large range of Tropical,

dogs grooming session starts in

none, most of our customers are

Marine, Coldwater and Pond fish.

our salon in Pyle Garden Village,

now the result of recommenda-

We stock all the well known brand

we will discuss your dogs indi-

tion. Our cutting edge designs,

names and accessories for your

vidual grooming needs, behaviour

experience, fantastic build quality

aquarium. We are here to give

and health. Then, we’ll create a

and keen attention to detail,

expert advice on any issue you

custom grooming plan for you

ensures that we are a cut above

may be having with your tank.

and your dog. We promise a safe

our competitors.

and clean environment for all pets at all times. We are City &

Be the envy of your friends and

Guilds qualified and Fully Insured

family, and pop in for a coffee

- Certificates available to view. We

with Paula & Richard and allow us

also offer a pick up and drop off

to create that ‘wow’ factor home

service (small fee added for this

you’ve always dreamed of....”

service).

FREE WINE COOLER

FILLED WITH PROSECCO For kitchens ordered before December 25th 2017

Tel: 01656 741443

Established in 1999 and with over

Established

in

1979

Dunraven

WE GOT YOUR WALLS COVERED

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PREMIERCLUB VA L E

Welcome to Premier Club, a unique social, business and dining experience at some of the finest venues in Wales.

Our lifestyle team would like to introduce you to beautiful hotels and restaurants, exclusive product launches, unique business introductions and social events.

Premier Club creates the perfect environment in which to socialise and meet like-minded people.

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Mediation can help resolve all kinds of civil and commercial disputes and is an alternative to expensive litigation. Vale Life gets around the table with Michael Morgan of Vale Solicitors.

LET’S TALK

MEDIATION “The first thing we do, let’s kill all the lawyers.” William Shakespeare, King Henry VI, Part 2.

“Not necessarily the best idea,” says Michael Morgan, a Solicitor and Mediator practicing in the Vale of Glamorgan since 1984. “But litigation is not always the best solution to a dispute.”

Michael is one of a few Solicitors in England and Wales to be Accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors as an Evaluative Civil and Commercial Mediator. In particular he deals with boundary, property and Probate disputes.

Disputes can have devastating consequences on the parties involved.

An argument over a tiny sliver of land, or some ancient family grudge can lead to months, if not years, of litigation with costs running to tens of thousands of pounds.

Family members and neighbours no longer speak and, in the worst cases, violence can erupt. Michael has encountered the use of shotguns, iron bars and angle grinders by disgruntled neighbours and beneficiaries.

“The Wizard would be a good mediator,” Michael adds. “He helps people find what they need rather than what they want. Basil wouldn’t make it as a mediator but I keep him in reserve to deal with the more intransigent litigants.”

Mediation offers a more civilised and less expensive solution. In a boundary dispute Michael will usually spend a day with the parties at the property.

“I will get my boots dirty and take time to evaluate the parties’ position. I am not there to take sides, or judge, but with over thirty years’ experience as a property lawyer I can help them see what practical and legal solutions are available to them.”

The Fawlty’s might however call on the assistance of Michael’s colleague Liz Hunt - a Solicitor and Accredited Family Mediator. It beats ripping off a sapling and thrashing your car - that usually ends in tears.

Michael is also an actor and draws inspiration from some characters for his mediation work. He was The Wizard of Oz in Cardiff New Theatre and Basil Fawlty for two seasons at The Cardiff Open Air Theatre Festival.

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“Over 30 years’ experience as a property lawyer.”

It’s good to talk. Call Michael or Liz 01446 792 535 or 0777 180 3639 Vale Solicitors Advocates & Mediators mediation@valesolicitors.com www.valesolicitors.com

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A LOCATION

For Life

Ewenny, in the Vale of Glamorgan, is a highly desirable place to live, offering an enviable balance of modern convenience and rural escape.

Priory gardens, a bespoke development of five exceptional homes, sits within a quiet and idyllic setting of rural landscape with the charming village of Ewenny at its centre.

Dotted with historic buildings and the remarkably unique Ewenny Priory just a stroll away, the area boasts traditional local architecture, beautiful rolling countryside, the scenic Ewenny river and atmospheric woodlands.

The popular sandy beach of Ogmore by Sea is just ten minutes away, while the wild and dramatic coastline around Southerndown and Dunraven Bay is just a short drive.

With fabulous coast and countryside on your doorstep you will be spoilt for choice.

Priory Gardens is surrounded by peace and quiet but you don’t need to go far to find all the trappings of contemporary life.

Fashionable Cowbridge offers boutique shops and restaurants alongside a calendar of local events.

Catch up with close friends over drinks, enjoy an afternoon coffee, indulge in retail therapy or treat yourself to a relaxing massage. This exclusive pocket of the Vale has plenty to offer. Children are well catered for too with a high standard of primary and secondary schools populating the area and plenty of community events to keep them entertained.

When city life beckons, Cardiff is just 30 minutes away.

The capital boasts award-winning retail stores, great nightlife and a programme of world class sporting and cultural events.

Ewenny is also located just a short distance from the M4, conveniently connecting you to London to the east and the stunning scenery of the Gower and Pembrokeshire coastlines to the west - in all a location for life.

B O O K YO U R E XC LU S I V E V I E W I N G N O W !

CALL

0800 091 1809

VISIT

W W W. W E S TAC R E S . C O. U K

YOUR

Forever Home On land once forming part of the Ewenny Priory Estate, this unique development provides a rare chance to own an exceptional new home on a substantial garden plot.

These five impressive properties have been designed to offer the discerning purchaser a contemporary and luxurious home in a rural location.

Priory Gardens sets itself apart from a typical new build not only because of the peerless specification of these homes but also because of the exceptional size of the plots (around 0.3 acres each). Established trees and hedgerows surrounding the development offer both privacy and security to homeowners.

Designed to reflect this peaceful setting, there is a choice of two unique house types, each with substantial gardens of approximately a third of an acre‌

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The Southerndown A delightful five-bedroom house with a combination of classic and modern design aimed at creating the finest possible living environment.

A haven of privacy and immaculate design, this home is full of character and boasts an exceptional level of craftsmanship for an unparalleled sense of luxury.

With the emphasis on light and space, this characterful home has a modern open-plan kitchen, dining and family room providing a practical layout that makes an impressive statement.

B O O K YO U R E XC LU S I V E V I E W I N G N O W !

CALL

0800 091 1809

VISIT

W W W. W E S TAC R E S . C O. U K

The Ogmore Offering an exceptional level of classic style, coupled with clean lines and modern simplicity, The Ogmore is an ideal choice for families seeking a forever home in the Vale of Glamorgan.

This four-bedroom home features an impressive and spacious open-plan layout, perfect for entertaining.

Dual aspect bi-fold doors to the generous garden allow for a sense of flow, creating a relaxing and inspiring living space.

Designed for the modern family life with exceptional attention to detail, this home features a dedicated study for working from home and a separate lounge for quiet evenings in.

orm Both house styles boast fixtures and fittings of the highest standard including: Contemporary handcrafted walnut stairs combining modern and timeless glass balustrade r

Masterclass fully fitted luxury kitchens in a choice of style and colours r

Neff kitchen appliances r

Walk in wardrobes to master bedrooms r

Walk in shower area in main and ensuite bathroom External features include: Landscaped front and rear gardens which feature Yorkshire paving to paths and patio and Cotswold stone chippings to driveways r

Remote controlled electric garage doors finished in Golden Oak r

Security fencing to external boundaries r

Secure, energy efficient double glazed windows

B O O K YO U R E XC LU S I V E V I E W I N G N O W !

CALL

0800 091 1809

VISIT

W W W. W E S TAC R E S . C O. U K

Book now to view At Westacres we are passionate about providing luxurious bespoke homes, designed to allow the homeowner the very best in contemporary living and effortless style.

Designed and finished to the highest standards, the peerless specifications of these homes leave nothing to be desired.

Every property we build is unique but the level of care and attention to detail always remains the same. Your home is also covered by a NHBC 10 year Buildmark warranty, meaning your new home has been built to the highest technical requirements for design, materials and craftsmanship.

Using only the best materials and ensuring immaculate craftsmanship we consider every small detail, allowing you to enjoy comfortable living in classic homes of distinction.

Customer satisfaction is key to our company ethos, we don’t just build houses, we build homes that our buyers are proud to own.

Westacres invites you to book a personalised visit to the Visual Marketing Suite. Here you can take a virtual tour of the properties using the latest technology and peruse a full display of actual fixtures and fitting.

The dedicated team will be delighted to discuss the unique requirements for you and your family to ensure that Priory Gardens becomes your forever home.

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Contact us 0800 091 1809 WWW.WESTACRES.CO.UK INFO@WESTACRES.CO.UK

PRIORY GARDENS ABBEY ROAD EWENNY CF35 5BN

B O O K YO U R E XC LU S I V E V I E W I N G N O W !

CALL

0800 091 1809

VISIT

W W W. W E S TAC R E S . C O. U K

Lydmore Barn, Dyffryn ROBERT CALCATERRA Director

£1,550,000 “Set within its own 14.5 acres, Lydmore Barn is a real rural idyll. From its extensive glazing and its impressive interior you can sit back and enjoy the stunning views of the mature landscaped gardens, two lakes and nature garden beyond.

If this was not enough, you could enjoy a country walk through your very own rolling paddock.” Robert

Mill Farm House, Ewenny DEBORAH HAINES Residential Negotiator

£625,000 “A beautiful, large, stone built farmhouse dating back to 18th century, near to the beaches of Ogmore by Sea and Southerndown. This property has a vaulted ceiling with floor to ceiling glass that floods the open plan kitchen/dining area and galleried landing, with light and views of the rear garden. A lovely family home in a convenient location.”

Deborah

Brynteg Farm, Llanharry

SEBASTIAN SOUTHWOOD Residential Negotiator

£449,950 “The handsome exterior of this property and stylishly decorated interior offer a great mix of traditional yet modern living. With the potential of offering a fourth bedroom, large outside space, ample parking and close proximity to Y Pant Comprehensive School, I think this property makes for a wonderful family home.” Sebastian

59 High Street Cowbridge CF71 7YL SALES 01446 772911 RENTALS 01446 776374

sales@hrt.uk.com

rentals@hrt.uk.com

www.hrt.uk.com

Herbert R Thomas

@HerbertRThomas

HerbertRThomas

Court House, Llanbethery LAUREN ELEY Residential Negotiator

£560,000 “This property captures my imagination each time I visit. The property is believed to date back to the 16th Century and holds many of its original, quirky features. The fireplaces and exposed stonework are particular favourites of mine.

Court House is situated in a very peaceful hamlet yet is very conveniently located to the M4. ” Lauren

69b Eastgate, Cowbridge SUE DOBSON Sales Progressor

£549,950 “This cottage gives you the best of both worlds. Step outside and enjoy the hubbub of Cowbridge and all that it offers.

Step back inside and you are in your own peaceful haven. The fabulous kitchen and adjoining conservatory is perfect for entertaining friends and family, with the added bonus of a good sized garden to enjoy on sunny days.” Sue

2 Minehead Close, Ogmore By Sea LINDA BLACKHALL Receptionist

£329,500 “I particularly love the courtyard garden at this property! That combined with how close it is to the beach, its low maintenance and show home standards gives you the feeling you could be abroad on holiday. It even comes with its own mature olive trees.” Linda

The Toll House 1 Derwen Road Bridgend CF31 1LH 01656 660036

33 Alfred Street Neath SA11 1EH 01639 639541

121 Park Lane London W1K 7AG 020 7079 1477

Househunters in south Wales can be assured of the very best quality from David Wilson Homes which has been named as a five-star housebuilder for the eighth consecutive year.

FIVE STAR QUALITY FROM DAVID WILSON HOMES The company is currently creating new communities at St James’ Gardens in Wick and The Rise@ Ocean View in Ogmore by Sea where a range of three, four and five bedroom homes are available for those looking to settle in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Sales director Richard Lawson said he was thrilled with the latest award from the Home Builders Federation (HBF) which rates customer satisfaction in a national survey.

For David Wilson Homes to be rated as 5 star means that more than 90% of its customers say they would recommend the homes to a friend.

It also means that David Wilson Homes now becomes the only major national housebuilder to be accredited as a 5 star builder for eight years in a row.

Richard, said: “We are extremely proud to achieve the 5 star rating for eight years in a row as it means more than 90% of our customers would recommend our homes to a friend. The customer recommendation scores come from building high quality homes and then really looking after our customers once they have moved in.

“Quality is so important to us. There are more than 400 items that are individually checked before the keys to a Barratt home are handed over to a customer. We try to work harder than anyone else when it comes to looking after our customers, and this comes out in the survey’s results.”

David Wilson Homes South Wales continually puts customers at the heart of everything it does by building high quality homes with great design that create strong communities.

This, together with a focus on looking after customers after they have moved in, has helped achieve the high customer recommendation scores for David Wilson Homes South Wales.

The HBF survey is one of the largest customer surveys of its type, with more than 50,000 customers taking part.

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It was developed to give customers an independent quality rating of the new homes being built across the country, with the star rating a handy guide for customers to quickly see which housebuilders have the highest recommendation scores.

“High quality homes with great design.”

Stewart Baseley, executive chairman of the Home Builders Federation, said: “The Customer Satisfaction and Star Rating Scheme is an accepted, robust and independently assessed measure of customer service. Achieving the highest levels of satisfaction is a huge challenge that requires commitment from everyone in an organisation from top to bottom. To do so while increasing output, as Barratt has done, to help address our acute housing shortage is especially commendable.”

For Carol and Phil Kibble, moving into a new home at David Wilson Homes sought-after St James’ Gardens development in Wick has been a welcome return to Wales after 30 years.

HOMECOMING

The couple were keen to return to the area with son Pete (18) after spending three decades in Wiltshire.

And the chance to move close to family was too tempting to resist.

“We love the location here. Wick is within walking distance of the coast and has wonderful amenities. Not many villages can boast two pubs, a shop, a post office, a village school and a very active community,” said Carol. We were also attracted to the quality of homes at St James’ Gardens - and the layout of our house perfectly suits our needs.”

Successful cycling and triathlon coach Phil added: “When we were looking for our house it had to be suitable for Carol’s occupation as a full-time artist.

It was essential to have one room which had great light and sufficient space to become Carol’s art studio. We chose the Irving house design. It’s a four-bedroom detached property with a single garage.

“We particularly love the open plan kitchen/family area and the quality of the appliances. Upstairs, the bedrooms are light and spacious and one of the west-facing bedrooms has made a perfect studio.

“Another benefit of the house is the warmth. We previously lived in a draughty 1850s cottage. In comparison, this house feels tropical!”

The area is just what the family was looking for - equidistant between Cowbridge and Bridgend. The former is a pretty market town and Bridgend features all local amenities and plenty of retail opportunities.

“Wick is within walking distance of the coast and has wonderful amenities.”

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Barratt & David Wilson Homes South Wales (a trading name of BDW Trading Ltd) Oak House, Village Way, Tongwynlais Cardiff, South Wales CF15 7NE 02920 544 744 www.barratthomes.co.uk

Make your move this New Year Watts & Morgan would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Let us show you how we can make a difference to your 2018. Please call our sales team on 01446 773 500 for a free Market Appraisal.

All images ŠSouth Wales Property Photography

@WattsandMorgan

wattsandmorgan

Cowbridge Office: 01446 773 500

wattsandmorgan.wales

Our Winter Wonders

Woodlands Lodge, Bonvilston £670,000 A handsome, landmark property skilfully extended to blend the Georgian ‘original’ with a stylish modern extension. lounge, living room, kitchen-diner. Also cloakroom, utility & WC. Four bedrooms, one en suite, bathroom.

Parking. Sheltered, flagstone-paved garden.

Broadshoard House, Cowbridge £595,000

A stunning stone fronted cottage in heart of Cowbridge within walking distance of town centre. Accommodation includes; sitting room, lounge with feature fire place. Stunning kitchen/ breakfast room, utility room and wet room.

To the first floor are four good sized bedrooms and a family bathroom. Private enclosed rear and side gardens. Double garage.

Yew Tree Gardens, Colwinston £675,000

A very elegantly modernised family home.

The extensive accommodation includes porch, entrance hallway, lounge, large open-plan kitchen-dining space with doors opening to patio with garden beyond. Family room. To the first floor: five bedrooms and family bathroom.

Driveway and garage. Enclosed garden with stunning views, including a detached studio.

Ty Newydd Farm, Groesfaen £1,495,000

A unique, timber-framed home in a wonderful location with extensive, highly adaptable family accommodation. Surrounding gardens and grounds, including double garage and parking, extending to around 3 acres; further land available by separate negotiation.

mayfairoffice.co.uk

relocation-agent-network.co.uk

Welcome to Vale Life Magazine’s Social Life section, a veritable who’s who in and around the Vale.

SOCIAL L IFE PENARTH

4th Annual Fashion Show for Loulou Boutique Loulou Boutique held their 4th Annual Fashion Show and Lunch at Pier 64, Penarth with a full house to celebrate their Autumn collections.

Guests were treated to a superb two-course lunch from the restaurant and it was a fun-filled afternoon of laughter, fashion and musical entertainment, raising funds for Velindre Cancer centre. www.facebook.com/Loulouwoman

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CARDIFF CIT Y CENTRE

Hawkes hosts event for Lauren Catris Russell Scott-Lawson, owner of Hawkes, hosted an event on behalf of tie and scarf designer Lauren Catris.

Guests were invited to view her stunning new range as well as the winter collections from Hawkes over a glass of bubbly. Please see Hawkes’ list of superb brands on page 12.

Images courtesy of www.garethrhys.com

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CARDIFF

A very Magenta evening at The Radisson Blu! Julie, Gretchen and the team at Magenta Financial Planning celebrated their 1st Anniversary by hosting a party with clients, friends and other professionals.

Gretchen & Julie with clients Tim & Minty Murphy

The very dull and wet evening was brightened by sparkling company and a fun quiz, which got everyone involved and in the mood for Christmas festivities.

Julie and Gretchen shared details of a successful first year having won the Best Financial Adviser in Wales award from Professional Adviser and Start Up Business of the Year from the Bridgend Business Forum. They also outlined some exciting and innovative plans for Magenta in 2018.

June & Keith Langley

Having recently moved into new offices on Court Road, Bridgend and with further awards pending, the team at Magenta and their clients certainly had a lot to celebrate!

One Court Road, Bridgend CF31 1BE 01656 760670 www.magentafp.com

Jill & Alan Evans, Julie Lord

Julie, Tim Young, Gretchen

Julie Heatley-Thomas (Prescott-Jones), Rebecca Tuck, James Alcock (Octopus Investments)

Tim Murphy

Tony Haycock

Julie & Bob Gibbons

Mandy, Rebecca, Julie, Valerie, Gretchen (the Magenta Team)

Gretchen Betts

Julie, Illtyd Francis & Sharon Hubbard 122

Judith & Anthony Smith, Julie Lord

VALE HOTEL

Luxury residential developer reveals exclusive new homes in the Vale Westacres, private residential developers of bespoke homes, unveiled its new development – Priory Gardens - at an exclusive launch in the Vale Resort recently.

The launch was attended by invited private and business guests who were introduced to the company and shown an exclusive preview of the homes using the latest technology to give an insight into the exceptional homes on offer.

The event also treated guests to a special appearance of Wales and British Lions rugby legend, Phil Bennett OBE who

Pat and Phil Bennett with Tonia and Ian Morgan

hosted an insightful and entertaining question and answer session in the lead up to the Wales V New Zealand All Blacks rugby match in Cardiff.

To book an exclusive visit to Priory Gardens contact the dedicated team.

Call 0808 091 1809 Visit www.westacres.co.uk Images courtesy of www.haphotos.co.uk

Kyle Stiens, Veronika Wislocka, Richard Baldwin, Sophie Lauren Evans

Mark Roberts, Jennifer Hobbs- Roberts (Good Life Industries), Michael Morgan (Vale Solicitors)

Pat Phillips, Derek Phillips

Nick Soady, Claire Cooke, Gareth Readding , Dave Haskell

Rob Davies & Westacre guests

Paul Haden, Lisa Haden

Martyn Richards, Paul Collins

Huw Jenkins, Chris Jenkins

Jonathan Richards, Matthew Thomas

Kara Morgan, Nicole Kalmuczak and Taylor Morgan

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JANUARY HIDEAWAY PACKAGE Start the New Year at Holm House with the perfect cosy overnight spa break Package Includes: - One night luxury overnight accommodation - Holm House breakfast - An allowance of £20 to spend in the restaurant - Full use of the spa and leisure facilities throughout your stay Choose one 30 minute treatment from the following two signature treatments: - Indian Head Massage -Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage FROM £99PP* Room Upgrades available: Double Room with Sea View for an additional £30* Suite for an additional £60* For more information or to make a booking please contact the reception team on 02920 706029 or reception@holmhousehotel.co.uk *Prices are per person, based on two people sharing. Available Sunday - Friday, subject to availability.

Offer ends 31st January 2018

WWW.HOLMHOUSEHOTEL.COM Marine Parade, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, CF64 2BG

THANK YOU Thanks for taking the time to read this edition of Vale Life magazine.

Vale Life is the Vale Of Glamorgan’s premier lifestyle magazine.

We print 10,000 copies of each edition and cut no corners on design, production and the quality of our print.

Talking about printing, we source pretty much everything locally, and over 95% of Vale Life’s turnover is reinvested back into the community of South Wales.

If you have a business and are interested in promoting your goods or services to an aspirational audience in the Vale then Vale Life is almost certainly right for you.

Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts Editor jennifer@valelife.co.uk

“Follow your heart, not your head.”

Kevin Green, Wealth Coach www.kevingreen.com

P ROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS We value our advertisers. We appreciate the trust they place in us by promoting their businesses in our magazines.

With our local partners, we currently publish a range of high quality quarterly titles across Wales.

You can advertise your business from as little as £35 per season in this magazine.

Pick-up-ability!

Our magazines aren’t like other magazines. They have real pick-up appeal - in fact, they really do go like hot cakes.

Quality comes first... along with the environment.

We’re passionate about quality. The magazines are beautifully written and designed, and printed locally in South Wales on high quality paper (and no nasty varnishes or lamination we’re as green as green can be).

Quality distribution to an affluent, aspirational audience...

We distribute our magazines to over 1,000 carefully selected outlets across South Wales.

We’d love to have your business on board.

If you’d like to promote your business or service in our magazines, please get in touch, we’d love the opportunity to work with you.

OUR TITLES We proudly publish four Life-style magazines and one business to business title.

Vale Life (our first magazine).

This covers the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan - the most southerly county in Wales and deemed to be the most affluent. Vale Life was the first magazine we published.

City Life The premier lifestyle magazine for Cardiff, Wales’ capital city.

The magazine is delivered to all areas of Cardiff.

Valleys Life At the heart of the South Wales Valleys. From the Neath Valley in the West to Blaenau Gwent and Pontypool in the East.

West Life Covering Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and coastal Ceredigion, West Life is in touch with the relaxed lifestyle of this very special part of Wales.

In Business Wales’ premier magazine for people in business. This is the kind of publication people in business want to read; interesting, inspirational and aspirational.

WHAT A DVERTISERS SAY We proudly publish four Life-style magazines and one business to business title.

“The best advertising we’ve ever done!”

Andy Bradshaw, Partner, Hamptons, Penarth.

“Honestly, the best response I’ve ever had.”

Matt Mullooly, Owner, Northern Star, Penarth.

“At last, advertising that really delivers.”

Ann Bryl, Owner, Bryl’s Boutique, Barry.

“A truly astonishing response.”

Russell Scott-Lawson, Owner, Hawkes, Cardiff.

“The experience I have had with this magazine has restored my faith in advertising. Gauci Organic Candles is a small business with an equally small advertising budget. We have to make every pound count and that’s what we get with Vale Life, City Life and Valleys Life. It’s refreshing to find a magazine that really understands my business. They are never short of ideas. I recommend them whenever I can.”

Spiro Gauci, Owner, Gauci Organic Candles, Cardiff www.gaucicandles.co.uk “These are beautiful publications. We love working with people who are passionate about what they do.”

Spiro Borg, Spiros Caterers, www.spiros.co.uk We’d love the opportunity to show you what a truly effective campaign in our publications can achieve.

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St P Peters eters H Hall, all, St Peters Peters Street, Street, Cardiff Cardifff CF24 3BA T el: 029 2049 4425 • www.spiros.co.uk www w..spiros.co.uk • info@spiros.co.uk inffo o@sp os.co.uk o@spir Tel: Find us o on nF Facebook acebook @SPIROSCATERERS @SP IROSCA AT TE TERERS