West Life Spring 2017

WEST LIFE SPRING 2017

P R O U D

T O

B E

PRICELESS

I N D E P E N D E N T

We s t Wa l e s ’ P r e m i e r L i f e s t y l e M a gaz i n e

Fresh!

THE BEST OF WEST WALES’ INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES PLUS ATTRACTIONS, EVENTS, FOOD & FUN

Restaurant Reviews What’s On, Business, Shopping

There’s more online www.westlifemag.com

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

Shutters Awnings Blinds and Motorisation Conservatories Curtains

Inter

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W E S T WA L E S ’ P R E M I E R L I F E S T Y L E M AG A Z I N E

WEST LIFE Editor Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Creative Director Mark Roberts mark@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Editorial Thomas Goodyear editorial@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Features Lucy Atkinson features@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

www.westlifemag.com 0845 130 6452

Passionate about West Wales We are a small independent publisher. We are not a large publishing group pretending to be home grown.

West Life magazine is written, designed and printed in Wales for the people of the Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire.

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 West 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 West Life or on www.westifemag.com (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 West Life are strictly those of the authors.

Intellectual property © Copyright West 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 £40 (four issues) made payable to West Life. Visit www.westlifemag.com 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@goodlifepublishing.co.uk. Hopefully we’ll have the issue you want (but we cannot guarantee it). Each back issue costs £10 including postage and packing.

WELCOME

Welcome to the Spring issue of West Life magazine. If you love west Wales at this time of year as much as I do, you’ll already appreciate how special this part of the UK really is.

I’ve made Tenby my home for over a decade and I especially love the wild coastline around this beautiful, rugged part of Wales. And, while I love the scenery, it’s the people that bring Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire to life.

As I write this, the May Bank Holiday sunshine is streaming through the window and many of my friends and associates in local businesses have smiles on their faces because we’ve enjoyed a vibrant half-term with lots of visitors.

One think we’re passionate about at West Life is supporting local, independent businesses. So whether you’re a visitor, or someone who’s been fortunate to have been born and bred here, please support our local indie businesses this spring and summer.

Independent businesses are the life blood of our community.

They’re that great café you love, the quaint gallery, the cool gift shop and the special restaurant that you can’t resist. Every time we set foot in a chain, we’re supporting big business not local ones.

It’s a fact that more revenue is retained in a community when it’s spent in independent, small businesses so, please, choose where you spend your hardearned money wisely.

We hope you like what we’ve produced this issue. West Life’s summer issue will certainly be bigger and better. We’ll see you then.

Karl Long Client Relationship Manager 07464 426630 karl@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

Yes it’s free. Priceless actually!

West Life is distributed free through a wide variety of outlets across Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire 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 West 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.westlifemag.com Like on Facebook! www.facebook.com/westlifemag Follow on Twitter! @WestLifeMag #WestLifeMag

Photograph by Mandy Llewellyn

WEST 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 WEST 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. FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.WESTLIFEMAG.COM

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AROUND THE WEST

TRADITIONAL INN & ROOMS

Tenby House In the heart of historic Tenby, close to three golden beaches, Tenby House is an ideal base for your stay in picturesque Pembrokeshire.

Our lively seaside pub was built by Sir William Paxton as his Tenby Regency home, and we offer bed and breakfast in 16 tastefully furnished en-suite rooms. On your way back from the beach? Then pop in with your family for a refreshing pint or bite to eat in one of the bars or sunny courtyard. We have all the big football, rugby and cricket here on our multiple wide screens.

Freshly prepared meals are available daily including our Children’s Menu.

We look forward to welcoming you to Tenby House.

Tenby House Tudor Square Tenby SA70 7AJ 01834 842 000 info@tenbyhousehotel.com www.tenbyhousehotel.com Follow on Facebook

CA N T O N E S E R E S TAU R A N T

The Dragon Palace The Dragon Palace in Pentlepoir is a popular Cantonese restaurant and takeaway that offers an excellent choice of mouth-watering Chinese cuisine freshly prepared using the finest ingredients.

Their many years of experience shine through in their fusion menu and booking is highly recommended, especially at weekends. Their varied menu can be seen on their website www.dragon-palace.co.uk Open seven days a week (including bank holidays) from 12 noon to 2pm and 5.30pm to 11pm, the restaurant also offers a popular takeaway service.

The Dragon Palace is voted the number one Oriental restaurant in Pembrokeshire on Trip Advisor/Google and Facebook.

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Dragon Palace Pentlepoir, Saundersfoot SA69 9BH 01834 812483 dragonpalace@live.com www.dragon-palace.co.uk

When leading provider of bespoke shop interiors and creative joinery solutions, the BAPTT Group of Swansea were looking for a reputable windows and doors manufacturer to supply them with product, they chose to work with AAI. It was an easy choice as Adam Hitchcott, Managing Director of BAPTT told West Life.

Andrew Farmer, Managing Director AAI, Adam Hitchcott, Owner BAPTT Shopfitters, Alex Richards, Owner AAI

PLAY ON THE SWANS How long has BAPTT been established?

The BAPTT Group was established 37 years ago. We are a family run firm and, since we opened our doors, we have been the first port of call for those wishing to re-design and refurbish commercial spaces in London, Bristol, Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Swindon, Reading, Bournemouth, Southampton, Birmingham, Leicester, Milton Keynes, Brighton and Exeter.

What Services does BAPTT Group offer?

BAPTT Group are a design turnkey interior fit out company that offers a wide range of services to its clients.

Specialising in 3D interior design that is progressed into engineered working drawings for manufacture and procurement to fit out a large ranging variety of client briefs.

We manufacture all of our own Joinery so have control of the largest element of the fit out works and control all of the quantity surveying, project management, logistical delivery, M&E, fitting and any other aspect required for an interior design solution.

Why did you choose to use AAI for the work at the Swansea Liberty Stadium?

AAI had provided us very good work over the last few years and when I presented the company’s representative, Andrew Farmer, with the requirement for this project, he knew the exact system that we should be looking into.

He presented it to me and, as it fitted the brief, I presented it to the client and they loved it. With the tight budget for the project the price and engineering to make it the most cost effective offering we could for the Swansea Management Company.

“ AAI had provided us very good work over the last few years”

Andrew and Adam

Did you get other quotations?

I undertook an analysis of products that could be offered at the start of the brief.

AAI were asked to provide their options with costs and it was a combination of the product and price that allowed me to decide on taking them to the next stage over the other offerings that we received.

What work did they supply?

They supplied us with white full height windows with automated blinds built into the glass with a sliding door which looks onto the Liberty Stadium Football pitch.

What did you think of the way in which they carried out the work?

Andrew and his team were always helpful, on time and carried out the works efficiently and to all the Health and Safety regulations of our site with no issues.

What impressed you with AAI? The product offering and the engineering to provide a product within budget. Andrew was continually wanting to find a way for us to get the system to work.

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Did you think that they were cost effective?

AAI provided an excellent product for an excellent price. The end product is as good as expected and well worth and more for the money that was paid.

Would you use them again?

I would definitely use AAI again and have done on a number of projects since the summer fit at the Liberty Stadium.

BAPTT Unit 9 Kingsway Business Centre Swansea West Business Park Fforestfach, Swansea SA5 4DL 01792 588 995 baptt@baptt-group.com AAI Unit 3A Ashmount Business Park Upper Forest Way, Swansea Wales SA6 8QR Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter 01792 794 549 www.alexanderjamesbifold.co.uk

The race is on! St Davids and the Hundred of Dewisland has thrown its small but perfectly formed hat into the ring to become the UK City of Culture 2021. The bid is being put together by a partnership of Pembrokeshire organisations and they’d like your support.

S MALL CITY - BIG DREAM BACK ST DAVIDS’ BID TO BE UK CITY OF CULTURE

It is already being dubbed ‘St Davids versus Goliaths’. The tiny Pembrokeshire city and its surrounding villages are home to fewer than 2,000 residents. The bold UK City of Culture bid pits St Davids against English Goliaths including Coventry, Stoke-on-Trent and Sunderland and, closer to home, Swansea.

The official bid area is St Davids and the Hundred of Dewisland. As well as the city itself, the geographical area covers stretches from Solva in the south to Goodwick in the north, and will include nearby locations including Fishguard.

While size isn’t everything, those compiling the bid believe that with the passion of its people behind it, Britain’s smallest city St Davids can stand out from the crowd.

“It is easy to underestimate the power of culture.”

Mike Cavanagh, Head of Cultural Services at Pembrokeshire County Council, said: “Although small in scale compared with the other bidding cities, this area of Pembrokeshire punches way above its weight in terms of culture and heritage. “While there is not a public vote, it is a competition and to win we are going to need the support of everyone in St Davids and Pembrokeshire.

“We need input from as many people as possible, be it through attending our public events to contributing your ideas, or simply liking and sharing our posts on social media and spreading the word.” The bid is being led by Pembrokeshire County Council and St Davids City Council alongside a partnership of organisations and businesses including Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, Pembrokeshire Tourism, the National Trust and many others.

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If successful, St Davids and the Hundred of Dewisland will host a year-long programme of cultural events and activities.

The programme would use a mix of existing venues, new venues and the area’s iconic National Park landscape as the backdrop for innovative and truly memorable events.

People are being asked to put forward their ideas for the cultural celebrations.

Several public engagement events have already been held locally to gather opinion on what is important about the culture, traditions and heritage of the area.

Tegryn Jones, Chief Executive of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, said: “It is easy to underestimate the power of culture to create change. This is not just about putting on a few more music festivals and art exhibitions in 2021.

Back the bid

There is no public vote for the UK City of Culture; the winning city is chosen by an independent advisory panel.

But the partnership behind the St Davids bid is keen for the decisionmakers to feel the weight of public support for their city and the wider Dewisland area.

Show your support for the St Davids bid Facebook: Facebook.com/St Davids 2021 Twitter @StDavids2021

WIN!

For your chance to enjoy a night of luxury for two people at Twr y Felin hotel in St Davids and two half day adult adventure gift vouchers with TYF experiencing what this fantastic city and surrounding area has to offer, like the St Davids 2021 page on Facebook and share the competition post! *Terms and Conditions: The prize is based on two guests sharing a double or twin room at Twr y Felin Hotel, St Davids on a bed and breakfast basis.

The accommodation prize is available between Sunday and Thursday ONLY, between November 1st 2017 and March 31st 2018. *Excludes Bank and School Holidays and Valentines. Subject to change and availability at the time of booking. The adult gift vouchers with TYF are valid for one year. Competition entry closes at midnight on Sunday May 31st.

UK City of Culture fact file

“The City of Culture will be a true game changer for St Davids – the only city in the UK’s only coastal National Park. St Davids has been a place of culture for centuries and is already seen by many as the cultural capital of Wales.

“The bid will show the world this special place in this world-class landscape, but most importantly, the people of Pembrokeshire will reap the benefits for generations to come.

As well as developing a year-long cultural programme, if successful, the bid would also bring lasting rewards for local communities. It aims to improve people’s overall wellbeing, tackle urban and rural poverty, bring communities together and provide more opportunities for young people by inspiring a generation.

For this tiny city the journey to achieving the coveted City of Culture status has only just begun, but it is already attracting international interest and support.

n Government Ministers created the UK City of Culture title in a bid to repeat the success of Liverpool’s year as the European Capital of Culture in 2008. n Liverpool’s festival year saw a 34% increase in visitor numbers and generated £753m for the economy. n Derry-Londonderry was the first UK City of Culture in 2013. The city hopes to have 2,800 tourism jobs by 2020 as a legacy from its year as City of Culture. n Hull is the UK City of Culture 2017.

Since winning the title in 2013, Hull has seen a £1bn investment and this year will see an estimated £60m boost to its economy. n The bidding cities for 2021 are: Perth, Paisley, Stoke-on-Trent, Sunderland, Coventry, Hereford, Warrington, Portsmouth, Wells, Swansea and St Davids and the 100 of Dewisland. n All stage 1 bids must be submitted to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport by the end of April. n A shortlist will be drawn up in July, with stage 2 to be submitted by the end of September and the winner will be announced in December.

All images are copyright of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority and visitpembrokeshire.com

COCKTAILS | PROSECCO | GINS BAR BITES |SHARING BOARDS | SARNIES & BAGELS | SALADS LITTLE PEOPLE | PEMBROKESHIRE BEEF | LOCALLY CAUGHT SEAFOOD

14 High Street

Te n b y

f o o d @ t h e c o v e t e n b y. c o . u k

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Pembrokeshire

01834 842438 8

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SA70 7HD

w w w. t h e c o v e t e n b y. c o . u k

TENBY

Billycan Welcome to The Billycan - a gorgeous boutique bar/restaurant/hotel in the heart of Tenby.

Enjoy great value pub food at its best; from a wide range of classics to innovative bistro style dishes, using locally sourced produce wherever possible. Children’s menu options are also available.

In each of the carefully designed bedrooms you’ll find home-from-home comforts; it’s the little touches that make all the difference - from luxury toiletries and premium bed linen to white fluffy dressing gowns and slippers. Oh, and each Billycan stay includes Chef’s special full English breakfast to set you up for your day ahead.

The Billycan Lower Frog Street, Tenby SA70 7HS 01834 842172 info@billycan-tenby.co.uk www.billycan-tenby.co.uk Like and follow on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

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Mary Gabriel will take you on an approx 1/2 hour trip around Tenby’s North Bay and Castle Hill with a commentary that tells a fascinating history of Tenby’s 5 lifeboat stations. £5 per person – to book your trip, call at our booking kiosk in Castle Square, just above Tenby Harbour or telephone 07415 493109 Trips run daily from 9.45am, April – September

A GREAT PUB IN THE HEART OF TENBY

The Crown Inn Situated within the heart of Tenby, The Crown Inn is a mere two minute walk from the gorgeous beach.

A real ale pub, The Crown serves great quality drinks like Rev James, Abbot Ale, Peroni, Guinness, Thatchers and many more, as well as providing Sports TV, darts, and holds live music every Saturday.

Follow their Facebook page for details of their beer festivals and darts tournaments.

Sunday to Thursday 12-11 Friday and Saturday 12-12 The Crown Inn Lower Frog Street, Tenby SA70 7HU 01834 842796 Like and follow on Facebook 9

Lifeboat trips Tenby

TENBY

The power of Ten! Bar 10 in St Georges Street, Tenby, has an extensive drinks menu which includes some fantastic cocktails as well as a wide range of beers, wines and Champagnes.

If you’re into people watching like us, aim for a window seat upstairs and watch the world go by! Look out for their popular live music nights.

“Love Bar Ten… one of my favourite places to go in Tenby.”

Bar 10 St Georges Street, Tenby SA70 7JB 01834 844 322 TENBY FISHING EXPERIENCE

Tenby Sea Fishing Tenby Sea Fishing based at Tenby Harbour offers a range of family friendly fishing experiences from 90 minute Mackerel Trips to 8 hour Bait Fishing Trips around the stunning Tenby Coastline - and in deeper waters for their Shark Fishing Trips which are run on selected dates.

The family run business with Skipper Steve Bradley, was featured in “Sea Angler” offers a day trip you won’t forget, Shark Fishing in the middle of the Celtic Deeps.

“A day trip you won’t forget!”

Tenby Sea Fishing (Kerry Bradley) Tenby Harbour Tenby SA70 8HT 07837 405816 enquiry@tenbyseafishing.co.uk www.tenbyseafishing.co.uk 10

TENBY

Park Road Fish & Chip Shop Conveniently situated next to Tenby’s multi-storey car park in the town’s centre, Park Road Fish & Chip Shop serves up great fish and chips to eat in, or take-away.

The portions are extremely generous and the fish is freshly cooked to order which is well worth the short wait.

Park Road Fish & Chip Shop 1A, Upper Park Road Tenby SA70 7LT 01834 844240

“Excellent fish and chips as always!”

LLANTEG

Tenby Tourers Opened in 2002, Tenby Tourers are one of Pembrokeshire’s largest caravan dealers.

Tenby Tourers specialise in the sale of new and used touring and static caravans and are Wales’ only dealers for Adria, Hobby, Knaus and Victory Leisure Homes. They also offer a full range of services including caravan repair and servicing - they’ll come to you if required. They can even find you your perfect holiday park! What more could you possibly ask for?

“Tenby Tourers really looked after me.

They even delivered and sited my caravan.”

Tenby Tourers Crofty Showground, Llanteg, Tenby SA67 8QE 01834 831 900 www.tenbytourers.co.uk Like on Facebook

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WIN! The National Botanic Garden of Wales is a garden for all seasons.

We have over £250 worth of family tickets to give away. All you have to do is read on, answer the question at the end of the copy and email your answers in. Good luck!

As well as height-of-summer loveliness, there’s a rich palette of autumn colours; peaceful, tranquil lakeside walks in winter and stunning spring flowers. In all, there are 568 acres to explore.

The centrepiece is Lord Norman Foster’s Great Glasshouse, the largest single-span glasshouse on the planet - a ‘must-see’ on any visit to West Wales. There is a brand new Butterfly House to enthuse and enthral where 500 exotic butterflies bring a taste of the tropics to Carmarthenshire.

The Double Walled Garden is another must. Formerly the kitchen garden of the old estate, it is now restored and transformed into a riot of colour. As well as a restaurant, two cafes, a gift shop and plant shop, there is also a heap of history, a nature reserve and the waterfall of Pont Felin Gât. The National Botanic Garden is nearly 18 years old and is blossoming into a beautiful, much-talked-about jewel in the crown of UK gardens. But, be warned, you won’t be able to see it all in a day!

Email your entry to hello@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

Q

What

is the new attraction

at The National Botanic

Garden of Wales?

Answer

Open every day (except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day), 10am-6pm (times vary in winter)

Name Address

Admission prices Adults: £10.50 (with Gift Aid donation)

Postcode Phone Email

*Every Monday is Doggy Day at the Garden and keep an eye on the website for Doggy Weekends https://botanicgarden.wales

Terms and Conditions Apply 10 Family Tickets are available, each worth £25, and are for 2 adults and up to 4 children.

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With almost 30 years of experience, Big Brum’s opened its doors in Pembroke Dock back in 1988. With their extensive range of carpets, flooring, three piece suites, dining room and bedroom furniture they are unrivalled for their quantity of products in West Wales.

BIG BRUM’S

“Value for money and a first class customer service.”

From traditional to ultra-modern, and budget ranges to top brands, customers are spoilt for choice with around 300 rolls of carpets, over 65 types of beds and mattresses, over 70 three piece suites, 10 bedroom ranges, and 20 models of dining room furniture to choose from.

Big Brum’s don’t just provide the furniture and carpets, they also provide a carpet and floor fitting service; their fitters have over 75 years of experience between them and have been working at Big Brum’s for many years. The team deliver, set up new goods and take away old goods, and can also offer a same day service on lots of their stock.

Our products are always very competitively priced and we will do our utmost to ensure our customers are happy with the result.

By stocking extensive ranges in our large warehouse, we are able to pass on the savings to our customers.

Our aim is for customers to return to Big Brum’s time and time again for many years. So customer satisfaction is our ultimate goal.”

Their comprehensive delivery service means that you can take advantage of their high quality products wherever you live in the UK, and all of their goods are guaranteed.

We ask what sets Big Brum’s apart from other furniture and carpet retailers.

“We pride ourselves on providing excellent value for money and a first class customer service.

Big Brum’s Prembroke Dock 1 King William St Pembroke Dock SA72 6DR Open 7 days a week, Monday to Saturday 9am-5.30pm and 10am-4pm on Sunday Big Brum’s Milford Haven 73 Charles Street Milford Haven SA73 2HA Open 6 days a week, Monday to Saturday 9am-5pm 01646 687361 www.bigbrums.com

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TENBY

The 15th Terry Hermann Bass Fishing Competition Run by Mark Hermann Thomas, John Handicott, and West Life’s very own Karl Long, the annual bass fishing competition has raised over £100,000 for Cancer Research UK to date.

There’s an auction (as usual) and the celebrity auctioneer is local cobbler Dai The Boot.

It starts early hours on the tide and the weigh-in and auction takes place outside the Hope and Anchor in St Julian Street Tenby at 7.30pm.

This year it’s on the 23rd July and is a locals only Tenby and Saundersfoot invitation (boat only) competition. However, the more the merrier are welcome at the auction, which has become incredibly popular over the years; enough for even tourists and locals to arrange their holidays around it.

Teams are all pre-registered at the Hope and Anchor paying a fee per rod and are now limited to one bass per rod. All the fish are weighed and a prize is given to the biggest bass to a junior, biggest bass to a female competitor, the biggest fish of another species and, finally, the winner wins their name on the coveted Terry Hermann Memorial Cup. Other items kindly donated by local businesses are also auctioned such as meals at Tenby’s best restaurants, boat trips and soft toys. They also auction sports memorabilia, cooked lobsters and sell burgers to raise further funds. Last year Gareth Bale’s signed Welsh Football shirt raised £1,000 and was bought by a local race horse trainer.

The organisers produce polo shirts and hoodies in different colours each year which local businesses sponsor by having their name on the reverse and arms and this raises over £5,000 to the cause. You can see these shirts in varying colours and on various ages while walking around in the town in the summer.

The event all started after a few beers in the Hope and Anchor amongst a hand full of friends including Mark where it was decided that the best way to Remember Terry was to have a small fishing competition. The first year raised a couple of hundred pounds and last year raised over £12,000.

Terry would be proud as his widow, his son Mark, and his three grandchildren all are involved each year. Last year the event was featured in the television series, Harbour. So if you’re in or around Tenby on the 23rd, make a point of lending your support.

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“ The first year raised a couple of hundred pounds and last year raised over £12,000.”

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A gorgeous manor house set in picturesque Pembrokeshire countryside, offering luxury boutique accommodation and superb dining, with plenty of wonderful walks and places of interest nearby, it’s easy to see why family owned 5 star Trefloyne Manor is so popular. West life chats with the hotel’s General Manager Tom Beynon…

TREFLOYNE M ANOR

Tom, what led your family to Trefloyne Manor?

My parents have started various diverse businesses from fruit and veg shops and a retail shop Jago in Tenby and Narberth, to CelVac working within the water industry, so when they went for a walk to Trefloyne one afternoon they fell under the spell and magic of a very special hidden gem.

A year later they had bought a run-down golf course and a dilapidated Manor House. That was in 2004 and we haven’t looked back. The magic goes on and it is still a very special hidden gem!

“We have an ever-evolving menu, a specials board and our famous fish board.”

Your rooms are stunning.

Thank you. We’re delighted to be rated 5 star by both Visit Wales and the AA. We have four different room types: Standard Double, Superior Double, Luxury Double, Suite. Each of our rooms is individually designed to the highest standard where impressive modern fixtures and fittings blend in with the spectacular original features of the manor.

Our beautiful suites in the coach house have been created out of a derelict barn to create rooms suited for everyone and any occasion. Guests love our in room picnics with cured meats, olives, bread, cheeses and a great bottle of wine.

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Talking of food, congratulations on being awarded your first AA Rosette.

Thank you. All our food is locally sourced wherever possible, this is extremely important to us as we are a local family supporting other local business.

We have an ever-evolving menu, a specials board and our famous fish board. There is also our recipe of the week, with ideas coming from everyone, not just Chef.

We also have a selection of fine wines on our list, so that you always have the perfect glass of wine to compliment your delicious meal. And if it’s a light bite you’re after our bar menu has a wide variety of snacks and meals.

Do you have any plans for the future?

Absolutely, we’re in the process of finalising plans for more Swedish Houses in the woods. And we have planning for a Spa as part of the ongoing development of Trefloyne.

TESTIMONIALS

Also a scenic 18 hole golf course surrounds the Manor, which is available for a yearly membership and day rate play. Whether you’re popping in for a drink after work, a special evening meal, a wedding, or the perfect retreat for a weekend away, we can highly recommend Trefloyne Manor.

“Great food and an amazing setting.

We will definitely be recommending to friends and family.”

Call them now, and let them know West Life magazine sent you.

Follow on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram

What guests say...

“Thank you very much for a really welcoming and comfortable stay.

The staff were superb!”

Trefloyne Manor Trefloyne Lane, Tenby SA70 7RG 01834 842165 www.trefloyne.com

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T R A N S F O R M YO U R H O M E Bring the outside in

Alexander James has over forty years experience designing and manufacturing bespoke bi-fold and sliding doors in both aluminium and uPVC. For a free, no obligation consultation and quotation, please call 01792 794 549 or email sales@alexanderjamesbifold.co.uk 18

ALEXANDER JAMES

Beautiful Bespoke Bi-Fold and Sliding Doors

01792 794 549 www.alexanderjamesbifold.co.uk

Unit 3A Ashmount Business Park, Upper Forest Way, Swansea, Wales SA6 8QR

Part of the AAI Group 19

Originally built in 1806 as a working windmill, today Twr y Felin is a luxury art hotel, located in Britain’s smallest city, St Davids, where guests can expect a traditional ‘Croeso Cynnes’ - ‘warm Welsh welcome’.

T W Y Y FELIN HOTEL

ST DAVIDS PEMBROKESHIRE

Introducing Wales’ first contemporary art hotel, Twr y Felin, located in the spectacular Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Meticulously restored and extended, featuring contemporary design throughout which contrasts beautifully with the unique characteristics of the historic building, the hotel is now home to 21 bedrooms including two unique suites - including ‘Tyddewi’ - a distinctive space occupying the site’s original windmill tower, which boasts spectacular 360 degree views of the St Davids Peninsula from its very own observatory.

The hotel joins sister properties, Roch Castle and Penrhiw Hotel, as a luxury accommodation provider in the heart of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and is the first fully serviced hotel in the group of heritage properties.

Twr y Felin Hotel’s two Rosette Restaurant, Blas - meaning ‘Taste’ in Welsh - offers a menu influenced by the season and locality, with dishes designed to reflect Wales and its produce, whilst Cornel Bar is a predinner art lovers snug and Oriel Lounge is a dedicated gallery space, with a relaxed ambience, perfect for guests to enjoy lunch or afternoon tea.

As an art hotel, Twr y Felin features the works of 20 Welsh, British and International artists, including the urban artists Phil Ashcroft, Xenz, Remi Rough, Mr Jago, Pure Evil and Harry Adams. Throughout the hotel are over 100 pieces of specially commissioned art which are inspired by the St Davids peninsula and Pembrokeshire.

“The hotel is now home to 21 bedrooms.”

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Pure Evil, whose iconic Nightmare Series works feature in Blas Restaurant, has also produced eight spray-painted portraits to commemorate Welsh icons of song and cinema, with featured depictions of Tom Jones, Richard Burton and Shirley Bassey, among others.

Set in its own private grounds, Twr y Felin is surrounded by landscaped gardens which offer a peaceful outside space for guests to enjoy and will later in 2016 include a sculpture garden, featuring the bespoke Monoliths created by local and nationally renowned ceramist, Adam Buick.

LOCATION Twr y Felin Hotel is situated just a ten-minute walk from the Pembrokeshire Coast Path and the beach at Caerfai Bay.

In St Davids itself the 6th century St Davids Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace can be found nestled in the valley, whilst just opposite the hotel, Oriel y Parc National Park Visitor Centre and Gallery offers information on the local area and the changing exhibitions of the National Museum Wales collections.

The long and varied coastline boasts stunning unspoilt scenery, an abundance of wildlife, more than 50 forts and castles and the spectacular Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Coast Path.

THE AREA St Davids is named after the patron saint of Wales, Saint David and is the smallest city in Britain with a population of just over 1,600. The historic cathedral was originally built in the 6th century and was a site of pilgrimage for many hundreds of years.

It was considered that two pilgrimages to St Davids, were equal to one pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

Pembrokeshire is located in the south west corner of Wales and has a fascinating history, dating back to prehistoric times.

“Set in its own private grounds, Twr y Felin is surrounded by landscaped gardens.”

RATES Twr y Felin Hotel start from £190 per room per night on a bed and breakfast basis for two guests.

Twr y Felin Hotel Roch Castle, Penrhiw Hotel 01437 725 555 stay@twryfelinhotel.com www.twryfelinhotel.com www.rochcastle.com www.penrhiwhotel.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

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ROOFING & BUILDING SERVICES

CK Roofing & Building CK Roofing & Building Ltd is a well established roofing and building contractors based in Pembrokeshire.

They have built up an enviable reputation for the company’s first class roofing and building services for residential, commercial and industrial clients throughout Pembrokeshire and West Wales.

They employ a reliable, and highly skilled, professional team enabling them to offer you a professional service from start to finish.

We asked them what they thought was the key to their success: “That’s definitely our professional and reliable service, which we undertake at extremely competitive prices.

All of our work is guaranteed and we belong to Homepro, Fair Trades, and Trust Mark for ease of mind. Our testimonials speak for themselves.”

CK Roofing & Building Pembrokeshire Coast National Park 77 Knowling Mead Tenby SA70 8EF 01834 844 887 or 07807 001 979 www.ck-roofing.co.uk Follow on Facebook

“ They employ a reliable, and highly skilled, professional team enabling them to offer you a professional service from start to finish.”

Photograph by Mandy Llewellyn

YOUR WES T LIFE

Where do you love?

We’d love to hear about your favourite places in West Wales Where you go for a walk - perhaps the woods, beach or special place.

We’d also love to see your photographs. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a professional; if we like them, we may even feature them in the magazine. Please share with us, email to jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk 22

www.andrewpricegroup.com

british business hairdressing director of the year 2016

wales’ largest salon group boasting innovative hair design academy - 01267 238 934 cardigan - 01239 612 955 carmarthen auction rooms - 01267 233 011 carmarthen bridge street - 01267 238 190 haverfordwest - 01437 760 454 lampeter - 01570 423 298 llanelli - 01554 746 995 narberth - 01834 860 008 swansea - 01792 641 333 tenby - 01834 844 810

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Bray Wedge - £75 www.Vandalshoes.com New store opening in the Royal Arcade, Cardiff in May.

Ferrari Man In Red RRP £52 (100ml) Available from House of Fraser and online at www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Favourite T HINGS...

MY

Frankincense Intense™ Lift Serum £75, 30ml www.nealsyardremedies.com

Panache Britt Stripe Bandeau bikini - £36 Britt Stripe High waisted pant - £23 Available from size 28D-38G with maximum support and coverage.

From Selfridges and nationwide stockists or from www.panache-lingerie.com

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Tutti Rouge Lilliana Bra in Teal (D cup +) - £29.50 Liliana Short in Teal - £15.50 Liliana Brazilian in Teal - £14.50 www.TuttiRouge.com

Cyberjammies BOW WOVEN SHORT SLEEVE CHECK PYJAMAS £43.50 (in sizes UK 8 - 22) www.Cyberjammies.co.uk

Clarins Pore Perfecting Matifying Kit £33 Sleek matte gold compact containing a mirror and refillable blotting papers

Clarins Pore Perfecting Foundation £28

*Blotting paper refill contains 2x70 papers £15 - From good department stores and www.clarins.com

Origins, Flower Fusion Sheet Masks £5.00 www.origins.co.uk

Jo Malone London - The Bloomsbury Set, An unconventional life celebrated in scent - Each 30ml Cologne RRP £46 Collection includes: Blue Hyacinth 30ml Cologne, Garden Lilies 30ml Cologne, Leather & Artemisia 30ml Cologne, Tobacco & Mandarin 30ml Cologne, Whisky & Cedarwood 30ml Cologne.

Available from all good department stores.

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PREMIERCLUB W E S T WA L E S

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.

PREMIERCLUB SOCIAL

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BUSINESS

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DINING

For membership opportunities in Pembrokeshire please contact Karl Long 07464 426 630 For membership opportunities in Carmarthenshire please contact Lucy Gallivan 07860 930 399 www.premierclub.biz

Perfectly situated on the Esplanade, the luxurious and relaxing Atlantic Hotel enjoys one of Tenby’s finest locations with cliff top gardens and panoramic views of the spectacular sweep of the South Beach. West Life chats with General Manager Nicky Rees…

ATLANTIC HOTEL

Nicky, we understand the hotel is family owned and run?

That’s right, the hotel was purchased by my parents Bill & Doris James in May 1984, and is still family run by myself, my brother Andrew James, and my father.

Can you tell us about your facilities?

We have 42 bedrooms within the Hotel, many of which have sea views, along with Leisure facilities which include an indoor salt water pool, spa bath, steam room and heated loungers for our residents. Our Lounge and Bar both have gorgeous sea views and have recently been refurbished as have many of our bedrooms, it’s a constant process! We have an adjacent private car park for Hotel residents with parking for 28 cars.

Across the road is our beautiful clifftop garden with a large top terrace where drinks and snacks are available from the Salt Cellar Restaurant. The private steps and terraces lead all the way down to the South Beach.

Is the Salt Cellar open to non-residents?

Yes, the 2 AA Rosette Salt Cellar restaurant, which is under separate management, is open every day for lunches and evening meals, non residents welcome. For sample dishes their website is www.thesaltcellartenby. co.uk, advance booking is essential.

And can you tell us about your new luxurious Ocean room?

We’re very excited about our new venture “Ocean”. This unique accommodation is for two adults only, located on the cliff with breath-taking views from the full length windows which virtually surround the room, bi-fold doors lead to a private terrace complete with Jacuzzi. The en-suite has a bath and separate double rainfall shower with luxurious Templespa toiletries. It’s more than just a room, and not really a suite, so we settled on calling it “somewhere very special”. It will be available for reservations from 25th April 2017 on a 3 day break basis i.e. Friday to Monday, Tuesday to Friday.

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Set in the cliff face, this space is truly unique and totally gorgeous.

You can see more via the hotel’s flipsnack brochure: https://www. flipsnack.com/ATLANTICHOTEL/ oceanattheatlanticbrochure.html but do it soon, this will book out in double quick time!

Atlantic Hotel The Esplanade Tenby Pembrokeshire SA70 7DU 01834 842881 www.atlantic-hotel.uk.com

Opened in January 2016 by Nick Bolwell, the owner and Chef, The Lighthouse Kitchen has garnered a well-earned reputation for its tasty local food in an informal and comfortable setting.

THE L IGHTHOUSE K ITCHEN

Nick, what led you to setting up The Lighthouse Kitchen?

I studied hospitality management in Portsmouth University for four years and have worked within the catering industry for fourten years. It’s always been my goal to have my own restaurant so many years of saving and sacrificing led to being able to open back in January 2016. I have always had a passion for honest food and service where there is no trickery and you get what you see.

The Lighthouse represents many years of hard work in planning and gaining necessary experience to be competent enough to do so.

Can you talk us through the type of food that our readers can enjoy here?

We have a varied menu taking influences from many cultures across the world. We serve a lot of seafood, mainly indigenous species that are local to Pembrokeshire, and focus on simple flavours done well.

We change our menus seasonally but also have daily specials that change according to what is available that day.

Buying produce locally is very important to us, we try and source as much as possible locally and use fresh fish, crab, lobster, Pembrokeshire beef, but also smoked salmon, mussels and laver bread from Swansea and the Gower.

Do you have any plans for the future?

We would love to be able to expand the business into the outdoor catering market, but as a new business of less than 18 months we certainly wouldn’t want to rush into this.

What are your most popular dishes?

We serve a great deal of fresh fish and shellfish; one of most popular lunchtime dishes is freshly grilled mackerel fillets on granary bread with caper mayonnaise, and in the evenings we often serve a Sicilian fish stew with spiced sausage, tomato and squid which goes down tremendously well.

What sets you apart from other restaurants?

Aside from our excellent quality food, we have a unique approach to service in as much that we are attentive but informal; we like our diners to feel relaxed without being over served and intruded upon.

“ Buying produce locally is very important to us.”

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Now that the summer season is underway you can enjoy delicious food at The Lighthouse Kitchen 7 days a week: Sundays to Thursdays 11am – 9pm Fridays & Saturdays 11am – 9.30pm The Lighthouse Kitchen St Julian’s Street Tenby SA70 7AS 01834 844555 www.thelighthousetenby.com Follow on Facebook and Instagram

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The Long Course Weekend is now in its 8th year in Pembrokeshire, and is set to be bigger and better than ever in 2017, with places selling at a record speed to athletes all over the world. The Long Course Weekend is three events over three days, covering some of the most scenic locations Pembrokeshire has to offer.

THE LONG COURSE

This year The Long Course Weekend takes place on 7th, 8th and 9th of July. On Friday the athletes will tackle a 2.4 mile swim, before a 112 mile cycle on Saturday and 26.2 mile marathon on Sunday.

We also provide the option to be part of the weekend by doing the events individually. Athletes can choose to take part in the swim, cycle and run, with various distances available so there is something to suit every level of athletes from first timers to elites. The Long Course Weekend accommodates some of the best athletes in the world!

On entering The Long Course Weekend, as well as being able to race around the picturesque location of Pembrokeshire, and upon finishing receiving a unique medal for each discipline, our athletes gain free entry to pre-race seminars by top athletes, nutritionists and event sponsors, a discounted stay with

Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire and full use of their concierge team to arrange great perks to their stay such as, massages, yoga classes, food hampers and much more.

Also, athletes will receive a 30% discount for The Wales Triathlon 2017, a limited Long Course Weekend cycling jersey, brilliant official FinisherPix race photos and also a Long Course Weekend black band, which will provide our athletes and their families to a range of discounts and offers to a number of places locally and nationally. Please note that entering all the disciplines separately will limit the added extras received.

The Long Course Weekend is an event in which we try to cater for everyone, entering the full Long Course Weekend is an unbelievable achievement, however we want the weekend to have something for everyone, athletes at all levels, so each day is split into an event in itself.

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The Friday is the opening day of The Long Course Weekend with The Wales Swim where you can enter the swim at two different distances, full at 2.4 miles (2 laps) or short at 1.2 miles (1 lap).

The Wales Swim takes place at Tenby’s North Beach, with an unbelievable amphitheatre style cauldron of spectators.

The Saturday, day two of The Long Course Weekend, is an early start for The Wales Sportive, setting off from the Saltern’s car park in Tenby, where you can enter at three different distances, the full at 112 miles, medium at 66 miles and short at 45 miles around the Welsh countryside which is lined with enthusiastic crowds.

This is an open road event which features its own challenge; King of The Hill in Saundersfoot which will give the best climbers a chance to shine.

This day is fantastic for both spectators and athletes.

WEEKEND

“The Long Course Weekend is an event in which we try to cater for everyone.�

The Sunday is The Wales Marathon (26.2 miles) starting in Tudor Square Tenby. The Wales Marathon is what the athletes will have to tackle to complete the full weekend. The Wales Marathon has quickly become a fantastic event in its own right. This day has also been divided into smaller distances to suit all, The Wales Half Marathon (13.1 miles) starting in Pembroke Castle, The Wales 10K (10 kilometres) starting in Manorbier and The Wales 5K (5kilometres) starting in Tudor Square, Tenby.

For more information, please visit www.longcourseweekend.com 31

CREATIVE ENGINEERING Bottle fed on code, Corey Hearne is part of a new breed of web developers - a generation that has been brought up on HTML, Wordpress and SEO. Corey thinks differently and, as his clients are finding out, he knows a thing or two about website design.

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enjoy working with people who are passionate about their business or service. We’ve built up a varied client base and with that an exciting portfolio. From recruitment agencies and local hairdressers to physiotherapy clinics and even a local builder - we’re really trying to reach out into as many sectors as possible. It’s really about people - if we like you, we’ll work with you.

Why is the company called Cog? There’s a few of us involved in the business and when we were deciding about branding, we had a brainstorm about the company name. We batted a few names around and we whittled it down to three possible options. We each then drew a possible logo to go with the names and Cog eventually came out on top. That’s also how we came up with the logo. It’s simple, we’re part of the machine - the client’s machine. We work better together.

Describe what you do/offer…

We’re a full service digital design agency. We try to offer businesses, or individuals, the complete package when it comes to any branding, web design or social media. It can become quite a mess when you’ve got one company doing one job and another doing something else. We keep everything in-house and that really helps us promote a brand in a coordinated and coherent way.

Are you formally trained?

My background is website development and there’s no formal qualification for that. Anybody can get into developing websites, you just need to be a little bit crazy because there’s a lot of code involved! Our Creative Director has over 30 years of experience working at some of the world’s best design and advertising agencies. We know what we’re doing. We’re no mugs.

be a lot more work involved when developing an eCommerce website but the companies who we have worked with so far have had fresh ideas about how to market their products and that’s really satisfying.

Describe your approach to business?

Just be open and honest. Whether it’s when you’re having a quick chat with someone you’re working with or giving a presentation to a potential new client. We’ve found the types of clients who we enjoy working with are those who are open and honest too and that helps us build trust with them. I think we have the right approach – people seem to like it.

What mistakes do people/businesses commonly make with their websites?

We’ve seen websites where the company hasn’t put any of their contact information, where links for news articles are broken and text that’s so small it can’t read. The worst website mistake a business can make is not having a responsive site that’s compatible on all mobile devices.

With 1.2 billion people across the world accessing the web through their phones, it’s a no brainer for a website to be mobile and tablet friendly.

Why would a business come to you?

We’re always open and honest about the whole process. No design speak, no fluff, no nonsense – we believe our approach is a refreshing change to the ‘usual’.

What other services do you offer?

We predominately offer branding, graphics and website creation.

We also offer SEO (search engine optimisation) and content management for websites and social media.

We’re also branching out into app development, with the way people are using mobile technology, it only seems right for businesses to offer a mobile application.

Do you offer eCommerce?

Yes certainly! With businesses looking to offer their services through the web with minimal fuss and online stores popping up ten to the dozen, it would be silly for us not to! There tends to

Are you busy? What kinds of businesses are you working with?

Cog started properly at the beginning of this year and we’re getting busier.

We’re always looking to take on exciting new projects and really 33

Are you expensive?

Good branding or a great website doesn’t have to cost a fortune. We have clients who have literally junked their old websites after talking to us. Why spend money trying to fix something that’s so awful when, for a third of the cost, you can have a brand new one?

What advice would you give to anyone starting out in business?

Try to get as much help as possible from those who have experienced starting their own business.

Are you happy working for yourself?

What do you like about it?

Yes, definitely! There’s something extremely satisfying about running your business. It’s not for everyone.

You have to be driven. Waking up every morning knowing that you are your own boss is pretty cool.

What have you learned so far in business?

When running your own business always take time to work ‘on’ it and not just ‘in’ it.

Sum yourself up in three words…

Honest. Determined. Jokester.

Cog Creative Valleys London Sydney (hopefully) corey@cogcreative.co.uk www.cogcreative.co.uk

Proseal Roofing Ltd is an independent specialist roofing company with a reputation for quality craftsmanship at competitive prices, covering all aspects of roofing.

PROSEAL ROOFING

The Proseal management have a combined experience of over 80 years with offices in West Wales and Bristol. With strong links to the major manufacturers, they have access to the latest technology and design allowing them to provide the best systems available even to their domestic customers.

We ask West Wales domestic Director Simon Welch what sets Proseal Roofing apart from other roofing companies.

“What sets us apart is based on our historic roofing experience and the continued ability to move with the times updating and developing through our united highly trained teams, working together delivering to our customer’s quality roofing projects at affordable prices.”

We have a large well established portfolio of product installations available to offer our customers project and price range, such as: Pitched Roofing; All aspects from Slate/tile to standard and raised profile cladded systems.

Flat roofing; High performance felts, Single Ply membranes, Liquid applied systems and EPDM and Green Roofs.

Problem Solving; With an experienced management we are able to survey, identify and propose solutions for issues others may not.

And can you tell us about your guarantees? “Our roof operatives are trained and experienced in the system we are installing, allowing us to offer a manufacturer linked guarantee ranging from 10-25 years covering both the labour and materials. Proseal Roofing can also offer insurance backed guarantees providing long term secure confidence that our customers have come to rely on.”

Members of an impressive number of professional bodies including the Competent Roofer, Confederation of Roofing Contractors, Construction line, as well as Safety associations such as Acclaim and CHAS. Proseal Roofing provides national coverage on commercial and domestic projects with offices in Tenby covering Pembrokeshire and the bordering counties of Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion. Their Port Talbot offices cover Swansea, Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys, and their Bristol offices cover the South, South East and Midlands.

The last word goes to James, Managing Director as he tells us of their business ideas; “Future plans include ongoing training with the latest systems, as well as improving Health & safety and starting an apprentice scheme. We will also be opening a home improvement company specialising in high quality 34 34

double glazed windows, doors and conservatories, as well as decorative wall coatings.”

Whatever your roofing requirements you’ll undoubtedly benefit from Proseal Roofing’s vast experience, producing free detailed no obligation quotes without obligation. They can also provide detailed reports for property sales valuations, insurance purposes, renovations or new build prebuild budgets. Proseal Roofing Ltd echo their long history of hands on experience and continue to carry it forward, working to support customers old and new long into to the future.

Proseal Roofing promotes quality, value, confidence and security that all professional roofing company strives to achieve.

Proseal Roofing Greenfield Office, The Ford Tenby SA70 8RR 01834 814588 www.prosealroofing.co.uk

Stables Restaurant can be found next to the Normandie Beer Garden, between the picturesque medieval town walls in the popular seaside resort of Tenby. Historically an old coaching inn, the vibrant restaurant’s emphasis is on delicious food, fine wines and great beers, making ‘The Stables’ a much loved haunt with both locals and visitors alike.

STABLES R ESTAURANT

Locals will know Steve and Elleen Warren from their thirty years at Penally Abbey; they are to be commended for building an enviable reputation for great, fresh food using local produce wherever possible.

Their delicious meat comes from the award winning butcher, Andrew Rees, from Narberth; fresh fruit and vegetables from Hugh and Janet at Four Seasons Tenby; Catch of the day includes bass, skate, cod, hake, salmon, tuna, and sole from Pembrokeshire Fish at Milford Haven and when the boat comes in they have locally caught Pembrokeshire lobster from fisherman Neil Thomas. Milk, cream and eggs come from Tim Evan, their local milkman, and their wines are from Celtic wines. Two micro-breweries in Tenby provide bottled beers - it’s fair to say it doesn’t get much more local and fresh than this.

Popular dishes include loin of venison with a sour cherry sauce, grilled duck breast with a whisky and onion marmalade, prime fillet of beef wrapped in bacon topped with Stilton in a red wine jus, and lobster thermidor. The dessert that caught our eye was iced coffee Tia Maria walnut meringue cream slice; we recommend taking a peek at the menu on their website. They also cater for vegetarians, vegans and are family friendly, serving a healthy children’s menu.

The staff obviously love working here as it shows in their attitude; they are friendly without being intrusive which gets top marks from us.

Open five nights a week, food is served from 6pm with last orders at 9pm.

You can book your table online via www.stablestenby.co.uk or by calling 01834 843318. You’ll be glad you did.

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OPEN Tuesday to Saturday, open Bank Holiday Sundays. Six nights during school holidays.

Stables Restaurant South Parade, Tenby SA70 7DG 01834 843318 or 07793 002639 info@stablestenby.co.uk www.stablestenby.co.uk Follow on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

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My Name is Mandy Llewellyn and I am a Pembrokeshire Photographer based in Tenby - South Wales.

I live with my husband who inspired me to take photography a step further in life. I’m never without my camera and can often be found on a beach or headlands awaiting perfect lighting for the perfect image. I have the passion to capture the beautiful and stunning landscapes and seascapes all around us which I’ve been enjoying for the last seven years.

My love for photography gets me out and about at times all over Wales. With its rich coastline, fascinating hidden coves and little beaches, which are visited by so many people every year.

All my knowledge is self-taught - simply by being inspired by what my eyes see and my camera captures.

To see more of my work, please visit my Facebook page at TenbyCalendar You can also follow me on my travels on My Facebook Photography Page at MandyLlewellynPhotography www.mandyllewellyn.co.uk 07814 562332 mandyllewellyn@hotmail.com 37

One of the real pleasures of publishing is meeting new people. A chance encounter introduced us to Rob Higgins who owns a modest smallholding in Peterston, and is a Director of a brand new(ish) gin distillery hidden in the depths of south Wales.

We had to visit, we just had to.

ECCENTRIC CRAFT GINS ECCENTRIC CRAFT GINS

The fabulous four…

Eccentric Gin currently produces four quite distinct gins (we have to admit, after tasting them, we’re fans). Here’s how Eccentric describes its range…

MADAM GENEVA London dry: 42% abv.

A London dry as it should be. Simple, dry and juniper forward with citrus and a hint of liquorice and some subtle floral and sweet characters added by the sacred duo ‘meadowsweet and wild sunflower’.

LIMBECK A new Western style gin: 45% abv.

A gorgeously heady mix of blue ginger and citrus with tarragon, Seville orange and Orris. Rested in recycled burgundy French oak casks to develop a smooth texture. The oak casks leave a subtle peach colour, which will vary subtly with each batch (that’s craft!).

Hidden in a secret location, Eccentric Gin, is a craft gin distillery producing a superb range of very unique and innovative gins. Now most new gin distilleries would give themselves a pat on the back for launching one good gin in their first year. Eccentric produced four. And not only that, these particular four gins have been going down a storm with connoisseurs and gin lovers right across the UK. Using a combination of traditional methods fused with established innovative botanicals (even barrel ageing some gins - very clever stuff), the result is a range of smooth gins with flavours that appeal to all ages and palates.

Eccentric originally operated in Llantrisant in 2015 but recently moved to larger premises. Eccentric’s innovative gins are distilled by a mix of brewers, mixologists and even a freeman of Llantrisant.

Indeed it was William Price, a true eccentric, with radical, innovative ideas that served as the inspiration for the Eccentric brand.

Described as one of the most unique men in Victorian Britain, William Price (1800 - 1893) was a physician and freeman of Llantrisant. “He was quite the eccentric!” says Rob, “He was a believer in free love, democracy, and the emancipation of women, druidism and legalised cremation. He really sums up the Eccentric ethos!”

YOUNG TOM Fresh juniper malt gin: 46% abv.

Fermented from ipa wash and refined to a clean aromatic distillate. Naturally sweetened and vapour infused then rested. A sweet and floral style of gin with fennel, wild sunflower root and star anise seeds. Rested for 6 weeks to develop its flavours…

London Dry Gin, Dublin Dry Gin, Edinburgh Dry Gin, and even Plymouth have had a Gin named after them for many years. Eccentric Gin produce an innovative craft gin called Cardiff Dry finally putting Cardiff the capital of Wales on the gin map at long last.

CARDIFF DRY A unique dry gin: 37.5%abv.

A new style of gin chosen by the people of south wales. Rich herbal notes of rosemary, fennel, sorrel and liquorice, together with citrus notes from the lemongrass and verbena. Perhaps the new aperitif gin of the world?

I ask Rob what are Eccentric’s plans for the future? “More gins! But we’re also planning on growing and harvesting Juniper in the Vale of Glamorgan to produce our own gins making it a truly local and Welsh product. We have also been helping clubs and societies with their fundraising by conducting gin tasting sessions and ‘master classes’ time. Which are obviously great fun.”

We’ll drink to that.

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If you’re a retailer, hotel, bar, pub or restaurant that would like an Eccentric behind your bar, please get in touch.

You can buy single bottles online at www.eccentricgin.com or on Saturdays from our outlet in Petertston super Ely or at Caerphilly. Call 029 20 397554. www.eccentricgin.com rob@eccentricgin.com

The world’s changing. Pollsters and political experts are consistently wrong.

Where can we turn? “Try Bart Simpson!” jokes Neil Ballard of Lewis Ballard Accountants. Way back in 2000, the irreverent Simpsons character saw a future with Donald Trump as President of America. Intended as a ridiculous joke, it’s hard to believe it’s actually come true. Neil takes time out to ponder the implausible…

L EWIS BALLARD

These are certainly interesting times.

Once, when someone with silver blonde hair, huge white teeth and a scary tangerine tan monopolised the press, you knew it was just an outrageous reality TV star. Now the reality TV star is also US president!

And what about Brexit? Whether for or against - who really predicted that one?

And who really knows what to do next?

The unexpected happens surprisingly often…

Bart may not have all the answers but, joking aside, in turbulent times old ways of thinking won’t do. Back in 1789 Benjamin Franklin wrote, “…nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” However, as businesses worry about Brexit, Trump or Isis, it’s true that our tax obligations still remain. Yet with quarterly digital tax submissions beginning in 2018 even this system is undergoing a complete overhaul.

Time for a fresh approach to tax?

Finding the thought of tax bills painful, many people wait until the last possible minute to look at their Personal Tax, VAT or Corporation Tax affairs.

Resulting in overdue tax bills and often hefty fines, penalties and interest charges too. This puts extreme pressure on cash-flow, which seriously damages their business.

Just when it’s crucial to know exactly how you’re doing, this ‘I hate paying tax’ last minute approach leads to poor decisions, extra stress and, more often than not, even more tax than necessary.

Under the quarterly tax regime, fines and penalties could mount-up even very sharply.

Wagging that tail…

My advice is always to make sure the tax tail isn’t wagging the business dog!

In other words make decisions to strengthen your business, not just to hide from tax.

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After all tax is the by-product of success.

If you’re not successful you won’t have any tax to pay, but you won’t have profits either. Who wants a business like that?’

Meeting the Digital Challenge…

Lewis Ballard are Gold Partners of Xero, the world’s leading cloud accounting providers. Our in-house expert Sam Howells, presents on the benefits of using this cutting edge software at the Apple Showroom.

‘It’s been amazing, working alongside two such prestigious companies. It gives us confidence that our approach is providing the best tools and strategies for people to use.’

Saving you tax…

Our team of Chartered Accountants and our Chartered Tax adviser Johanna Evans will save you tax and structure your business to keep as much of your hard earned cash as possible.

We also focus on building brilliant businesses, which prosper in these most challenging times. Giving you the rewards your hard work deserves, with the time to enjoy them.

When you know how you’re doing in real-time, how much money you make and what you owe, you’re ready to seize opportunities, without mounting tax liabilities holding you back. Because, in this world, when everything is uncertain, anything is possible!

For a free consultation to help get your Personal Tax affairs in order, or to discuss any tax or business queries please ring now on 029 2073 5502 or visit www.lewisballard.co.uk

“Make decisions to strengthen your business.”

Lewis Ballard Celtic House, Caxton Place, Pentwyn Cardiff CF23 8HA 029 2073 5502 info@lewisballard.co.uk www.lewisballard.co.uk Follow on Twitter and Google+ 41

Andrew Farmer loves being able to work in west Wales. He manages Alexander James Bifolds, a company based in Swansea that has an enviable reputation for manufacturing and supplying beautiful bi-fold doors and windows to businesses and homeowners across the UK.

THE L AST WORD What do you love about West Wales?

It’s a fantastic region. We’re completely spoilt by the countryside and coastline.

There’s so much to do for all the family we love it.

What do you enjoy most about living where you live?

I think the south Wales coastline is one of the most under rated places in Wales.

We have an abundance of parks, beaches, countryside and eating places. That along with magnificent beaches and coastal areas, why would you not want to live here?

Who lives in your home with you?

My wife of 29 years Maria. We met when Maria was in the Navy and I was a member of the Royal Marines Reserve.

We have two sons, Tom who is 20 and at University in Portsmouth, and Sam who has recently turned 11.

What do you do for a living?

I manage the day-to-day affairs of an aluminium manufacturing company, AAI, that specialises in aluminium doors, windows and curtain walling. We cater for both the commercial market and also the domestic market. I also run our Bifolding Door Division which is known as Alexander James Bifolds.

What services does the company offer?

We offer a full bespoke service to both commercial and domestic customers who require anything aluminium. We have recently completed a variety of selfbuild homes alongside projects like the Hamptons by Hilton Hotel in Bristol.

How long have you worked there and what do you enjoy about it?

I have worked here since 2014 following a long spell as Contracts Manager for various Main Contractors. I really enjoy the contact with our customers and seeing their dreams become a reality.

What geographical areas does the business cover?

We are happy to travel anywhere in the mainland of the UK.

What do you enjoy doing in your downtime?

I enjoy a variety of things from spending time with my family, playing golf, mountain biking and more recently playing the guitar and doing a small amount of singing.

Where do you like to eat out?

I particularly enjoy tapas and seafood but will try anywhere that has the potential for good food.

What motivates you?

The same things that drive me.

Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?

Hopefully sitting back a little and spending more time enjoying life whilst overseeing our younger members of staff running the business on a day-to day basis. I think that my role will soon develop more towards the business development and client/customer relationship side.

What three words describe you?

Slim, suave and sophisticated! Only joking, I would say loyal, trustworthy and dependable.

What drives you?

Being able to provide a stable home and a good start for our children, along with seeing something I took over as a small business growing into a quality, well respected and larger company.

What makes you laugh?

Laurel and Hardy, Tommy Cooper and my two boys Tom and Sam. 42

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

Following many years’ experience in the vehicle rental and haulage industry, Director Lewis Rees and Steve Mott set up a family run business, Pembrokeshire Self Drive Hire, and it does exactly what it says on the tin! We call in for a chat with Lewis and Steve.

PEMBROKESHIRE

SELF DRIVE HIRE & VEHICLE SALES

Can you tell us a bit about your business?

Up until 2016 Pembrokeshire Self Drive hire was operated on a smaller scale alongside a separate company, Nationwide Executive Chauffeurs in New Hedges, Tenby.

After the sale of the Executive Chauffeur Company we moved Pembrokeshire Self Drive Hire ltd to our current larger location on Carew Airfield, Carew, Tenby when we expanded the company.

And how have you grown your business?

Since moving to Carew Airfield we’ve expanded the daily hire fleet to 50 plus vehicles. We’ve also managed to establish great relationships with a number of finance companies allowing us to establish a contract hire side of the business to businesses throughout Wales. Plus we’ve entered into vehicle sales, offering a wide range cars and commercial vehicles. And we also offer 1st class finance rates though our finance company partners.

What sets you apart from other vehicle hire businesses?

We offer a first class personal service, offering advice on the best vehicle to suit the customers need - we’re always available to answer any customers’ questions. And we’re proud members of the BVRLA, the trade body for the vehicle rental and leasing sector.

What does your hire price include?

Our daily rentals include full comprehensive insurance (subject to an excess), full roadside breakdown & recovery assistance in the unlikely event of a breakdown, and if you’re travelling abroad we can offer European breakdown cover & green card insurance.

Can you tell us the benefits of leasing a vehicle over purchasing?

Contract hiring or finance leasing a vehicle offers many advantages over outright purchase.

“We offer a first class personal service.”

43

100% of the rental payments can be claimed against your tax, you can have the use of a new vehicle for very low initial outlay and improved cash flow, plus all servicing can be included which makes it a very rewarding option for our clients.

And finally, do you have any plans for the future of your business?

We aim to establish an increased a number of working relationship with private individuals as well as companies nationwide who like to deal with a company that is large enough to cope with customers’ requirements but small enough to care.

Pembrokeshire Self Drive Hire & Vehicle Sales Ltd C1 East Runway, Carew Airfield Carew, Tenby SA70 8SX 01834 814042 www.pembrokeshireselfdrivehire.co.uk Follow on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Self Drive Hire

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