West Life Summer 2012

WEST LIFE SUMMER 201 2

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LAUNCH ISSUE! SHOPS, BOUTIQUES, RESTAURANTS AND MORE PLUS STUNNING BEACH AND FESTIVAL WEAR, AND THE WALES 100

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WEST LIFE W E S T WA L E S & C A R D I G A N B AY ’ S P R E M I E R L I F E S T Y L E M AG A Z I N E Group Managing Editor JENNIFER HOBBS -RO BE R T S jennifer@westlifewales.co.uk ❧ Creative Director M AR K ROBER T S mark@westlifewales.co.uk ❧ Studio PAUL S ES S ION S studio@goodlifepublishing.co.uk ❧ West Life Magazine Cardiff House Cardiff Road CF63 2AW ❧ www.westlifewales.co.uk ❧ 08451 808 707 © Copyright West Life Magazine Ltd. 2012.

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.

Passionate about West Wales We are independent. We live in West Wales.

We are not a large publishing group pretending to be home grown. West Life magazine is written, designed and produced in West Wales for the people of West Wales and Cardigan Bay. 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.”

Important you read this We have made every effort to ensure that all information contained in West Life or on www.westlifewales.co.uk 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.

Caveat emptor All advertisers have supplied their own copy (and in some cases artwork), and therefore West Life cannot accept any responsibility for disputes between advertisers and their customers.

Caveat emptor - let the buyer beware.

WELCOME It’s been on the cards for over a year but we’re finally here. Welcome to the launch issue of West Life magazine.

We think West Wales deserves a high quality magazine that reflects the wonderful lifestyle that we enjoy here in this truly special part of Wales.

Over forthcoming issues we’ll be bringing you reviews of the very best restaurants, delis, cafés and eateries the region has to offer.

We’ll do our best to introduce you to Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire’s superb food producers and acquaint you with some of our most talented chefs.

We’ll be visiting galleries, meeting artists, showcasing craftspeople and bringing readers the very best of creative West Wales.

We’ll be showcasing the very best businesses - there are so many excellent companies and tradespeople in our region and we want to present the very best of them to readers. We’ll be reviewing them, rating them and every word that appears in West Life magazine will also appear on our website www.westlifewales.co.uk There’ll be fashion features, health and beauty, events, interviews, profiles, sport and lots of leisure ideas, and we’ll be looking at the people and places that have shaped the region in the past and meeting those that are helping to shape it now.

West Life is your magazine.

We want to hear what you think.

We want your views. We’d like your recommendations too.

Where do you eat out? Where’s your favourite beach? Which businesses do you rate? We’d love to hear what you think.

We’re proud of our launch issue and we hope you like it as much as we’ve enjoyed producing it. If you’d like to advertise in the next issue, please get in touch - our rates are very reasonable.

Marcus Hamer 08451 808 707 marcus@westlifewales.co.uk

Subscriptions To guarantee your copy of West Life magazine, please send a cheque for £20.00 (four issues) made payable to West Life.

Visit www.westlifewales.co.uk for special subscriber discounts and special offers.

Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts Group Managing Editor 07766 106701 jennifer@westlifewales.co.uk

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@westlifewales.co.uk.

Hopefully we’ll have the issue you want (but we cannot guarantee it). Each back issue costs £5 including postage and packing.

We’d love to hear from our West Wales readers and we’re also looking for bloggers so, if you have something you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you.

Yes it’s free!

West Life is distributed free through a wide variety of outlets across West Wales and Cardigan Bay and is given away free of charge on the understanding that we are happy for it to be lent, passed around, 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.

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CONTENTS Summer’s here and, in this issue, it brings with it a wealth of fabulous features to enjoy.

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❧ COVER IMAGE COURTESY OF SOSBAN THE PUMPHOUSE , NORTH DOCK LLANELLI SA15 2 LF

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IN THIS ISSUE -

AROUND THE WEST

LET ’ S GET PHYSICAL

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WEST FOOD & DRINK TENBY

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MAYBE JUST READ A GOOD BOOK )

THE VERY BEST FROM AROUND THE REGION

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THE ASTON FAMILY OWN THE HOUSE OF THEIR DREAMS

RED , WHITE & BLUE

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BEST BEAUTY BUYS

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PICTURE PERFECT LIFE ’ S A BEACH FASHION FEST

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THE BEST OF BRITISH !

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL CORNISH AND JAC WILLIAMS

OUR BEST BETS FOR BEACHWEAR THIS SUMMER

THIS SUMMER ’ S HOTTEST FESTIVAL WEAR

NATURE NURTURED

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THE WALES 100

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WEST STYLE

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OUR FAVOURITE SHOPS , BOUTIQUES AND GALLERIES

GW OF ST CLEARS IS A REAL SHRINE TO STYLE TURN A BEAUTIFUL HOUSE INTO A BEAUTIFUL HOME

THREE GREAT COMPETITIONS

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BE IN IT TO WIN IT !

IN PEMBROKESHIRE , CARMARTHENSHIRE AND CARDIGAN BAY

THE LAST WORD

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YANNI HRYSICOS SHARES HIS VIEWS WITH WEST LIFE READERS

WEST LIFE WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED US OVER RECENT MONTHS .

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DEREK WEBB INTRODUCES US TO DENYS CORBETT WILSON

WIN ! WIN ! WIN !

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GET OUT THERE AND EXPLORE !

THE VERY BEST OF THE WEST !

BEAUTIFUL HOME

INBUSINESS

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HEAVY HITTERS FROM THE WELSH MUSIC SCENE

LOVE YOUR HOME

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TAKE A BROLLY )

ROB HODGE GIVES US HIS TOP SUMMER TIPS

THINK GLOBAL , SHOP LOCAL

HIGH FLYER

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ADOPTION AND FOSTERING INFORMATION

TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE

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PRODUCTS TO HELP YOU LOOK AMAZING THIS SUMMER

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS

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PROBABLY THE PRETTIEST SEASIDE TOWN IN WALES

GLASS HOUSE

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O UR CONTRIBUTORS , OUR ( 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 . WEST LIFE IS REGISTERED AT THE BRITISH LIBRARY AS A MAGAZINE ISSN 2050-4160 . FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW . WESTLIFEWALES . CO . UK .

FAMILIES , OUR FRIENDS

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AROUND THE WEST If you have a story which you would like to share, please contact West Life

TENBY

IRONMAN – for the serious athlete IRONMAN Wales is one of the most exciting events taking place in Wales. On 16th September over 1,500 athletes from over forty countries will take on the tough, but beautiful, course made up of a 2.4 mile swim at North Beach in Tenby, 112 mile bike through the Pembrokeshire Coastal National Park and a 26.2 mile run, within the seventeen hour time limit.

IRONMAN Wales acts as a qualifying event for the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii each year. IRONMAN Wales isn’t just a standalone event there is also an Ironman Expo, which is free to attend and see the latest in sports equipment.

The IRONKIDS event encourages children aged 5 to 15 to be involved and get active.

CA RMA R THE N

Get into shape with Hafan Cymru Still thinking about getting healthier? Want some motivation?

Hafan Cymru needs you to run for us at the Swansea Bay 10K on Sunday, September 23rd and the Cardiff Half Marathon on Sunday, October 14th this year.

Hafan Cymru are a Wales wide charitable organisation who give support to women, men and children who have experienced Domestic Abuse and Violence and helps them to put their lives back together again.

The inaugural IRONMAN Wales took place in 2011 and helped generate over £4m worth of economic impact to the region and this year there are a lot of ways for local people and local business to get involved and benefit from the event.

To find out more about IRONMAN Wales, IronKids, volunteering or business partnerships please go to www.ironmanwales.com or contact the IRONMAN Wales race office on 01865 596 266 or wales@ironman.com

They recently took over ownership of the Pembrokeshire Women’s Refuge, a safe temporary place for women and their children who need to leave their homes due to domestic abuse. Their services within Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire include temporary supported housing and floating support, where they visit families in their own homes.

During 2010-2011 Hafan Cymru supported 2,301 individuals nationwide and 352 in West Wales - the number increases every year. The money they fundraise helps to deliver the quality support that gives survivors of domestic abuse a chance to regain their independence and live a life free from fear.

Last year 25 people in total entered into the September Swansea 10k run and the Cardiff Half Marathon. Hafan Cymru raised an amazing £6,000 with the help of all of our runners, generous donors and invaluable helpers. By running for Hafan Cymru you will be helping to bring people’s attention to the importance of the work that they do in the local community and raising the all important funds needed to deliver this vital service. So come on, use this as an aim to put your trainers on, get fitter and help change lives! ❧ 6 ❧

Just email marketing@hafancymru.co.uk or call Sian on 01267 225569 to register your interest and request the entry forms.

Places will be allocated on a first come basis. Visit sweanseabay10k.com and cardiffhalfmarathon.co.uk for more info.

Hafan Cymru 5-6 Queen St, Carmarthen SA31 1JR 01267 225555 www.hafancymru.co.uk

A B E R A E RO N

Local novelist enjoys success Cynan Jones lives and works near Aberaeron. His first novel The Long Dry won a Society of Authors Award and is translated into several languages. Everything I Found on the Beach, his second novel, was published last summer.

LLA NELL I

West Wales Physiotherapy West Wales Physiotherapy was established in 2007 and is situated in a purpose built private clinic in Llanelli. Their aim is to provide specialist treatment for back and neck pain, post-op rehabilitation, neurological conditions, sports injuries, work place injuries and ergonomics.

With a team of three Chartered Physiotherapists who have extensive experience in treating sports injuries and all types of musculoskeletal injuries. Head Physio Tony Byrne says, “At West Wales Physiotherapy we assess and treat all levels of athletes from the elite to the amateur with a whole range of problems. We assess each person's individual problems and try to find the root cause behind their symptoms, not just the symptoms alone.

We aim to design a treatment and rehabilitation programme to reduce pain and discomfort quickly, but also to prevent recurrence of injury by giving the athlete an exercise programme, education and strategies to resolve and deal with the cause behind the symptoms.

We also assess and treat all sorts of aches and pains, twists and sprains, workplace injuries, symptoms of wear and tear, arthritic problems, whiplash injuries and low back pain. As well as providing workplace assessments for those wanting long term postural care at the workplace.”

More recently, a short story appeared in Granta. While reaching an international audience, Cynan’s stories are strongly linked with the dramatic backdrop of the West Wales coast and are a must read for visitors staying in the area.

“Visceral, pulsating…”

The Observer

“… Jones’s sense of place is acute, and his passion for the landscape - for its colours, its creatures, its textures, its scents - is absolutely magnetic.”

Sarah Waters

WIN! Dinner for two at The Meating Place, a bunch of music related goodies, plus a wedding with Grosvenor G Casino!

Turn to page 62 to find out more.

West Wales Physiotherapy The Exchange Building 6 Park St, Llanelli SA15 1YD 07530 629997 01554 774343 info@westwalesphysiotherapy.co.uk www.westwalesphysiotherapy.co.uk

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Isaac’s of Aberystwyth Fancy a trip down memory lane?

Then take a nostalgic step into Isaac’s of Aberystwyth. Opened in July 2010 and named after the young son of the owner Kam, this is a traditional sweet shop even Willy Wonka would be envious of!

Stocking old fashioned favourites such as Peardrops, Rhubarb & Custard, Teacakes and Bon Bons and well known brands like Lion’s Gums and Walker’s Toffees, there’s a huge collection of retro sweets - think Popping Candy, Dip Dabs and Wham Bars. But if you’re after something a bit more special why not try some of their high quality Fine Belgian Chocolate too.

17 Pier St, Aberystwyth SY23 2LJ 01970 624657

WEST FOOD & DRINK EACH ISSUE WE BRING YOU THE VERY BEST FOOD AND DRINK FROM WEST WALES NA RBER TH

The dish was served with a pea puree.

Then came chicken liver pate, served with thick and light toast in its own rack. The toast was hot! Why can hotels never get this right ? The pate was so moreish, especially when smothered with the accompanying apple and ale chutney. “My taste buds are having a party”, exclaimed Welshie. Last came the goats cheese which was rich, perfectly baked and offset cleverly with thin sliced beetroot, which cut through the richness with its natural acidity.

The devil’s in the detail at Diablo’s Phone message... “Hi Marcus, this is Alex from Diablo’s. I won’t be able to cook tonight because my toothache is killing me.”

Disaster I thought, Welshie and I had been saving ourselves for this gastronomic feast all week. Luckily, co-owner and brother, Andrew (Claridges trained) stepped into the breach. Result.

As soon as you enter Diablo’s, you are embraced by the moody atmosphere.

The bar is inviting, and cosy, with clever use of red uplighters and fresh flowers on the table. Two Mojitos to start and Welshie and I were starting to get in touch with our devilish side.

“Yum”, said my wife. Having both spent a week in Havana on separate occasions, the crisp cool, minty attack on our taste buds was certainly a rival to the best the Cuban capital had thrown at us. Diablo’s use ginger ale in theirs for an added twist - shame I was driving - happy hour is from 4 - 6pm daily. Taxi!

Non-alcoholic versions of the cocktails are available which I’m told are just as tasty, just not as much fun.

Canapes dutifully arrived on a Welsh slate tile. These consisted of mini homemade cheese burgers with onion jam.

These put an immediate halt to any conversation as we tucked in with messy fingers. Cheesy stuffed peppers and plump green olives were also devoured with as much vigour, all helped on down with virgin Marys.

We were then escorted through to the main restaurant via a tastefully lit curved entrance into a plush, vaulted space adorned with chandeliers, red carpets and beautifully naughty semiclad women on canvas.

Andrew had prepared five mains for us to sample. The food is certainly not fussy - simply presented with understanding of the ingredients and confident economy. The sign of a chef who knows what he is doing.

Our first plate was gnocchi - so hard to get right at home was suitably peppery and woody - al dente and with a smattering of pesto.

Then came crispy Cressingham duck leg on creamed Savoy cabbage which had us fighting over portions with our forks. The duck was so succulent and the cabbage was rich and textured utterly delicious. Cod and chips followed. This modern twist on a great British classic arrived with a ‘little stacked hut’ of chips. The cod had a light batter and the fish was moist.

All of the above was washed down with a Volandes Merlot for Welshie and Chilean Sauvignon Blanc for moi.

Served in large, sparkling wine glasses.

Hooray. So many restaurants get this wrong. I don’t want my wine glass filled to the brim. I want to swirl it around and let the air get to it.

The pause in proceedings allowed us a moment to savour the ambience.

The music provides an atmospheric backdrop, subtle and, like the service, it’s unobtrusive.

A slight pause... and then the desserts arrived. By this time, we were struggling a little, however more Welsh slate tile enticed us, frosted this time to reveal peanut butter squares, suitably buttery which melted in our mouths along with chocolate brownies, gooey and rich and a meringue, light with a sting from the raspberry and a mint aftertaste. Absolutely sated, we rolled out into the Narberth night - feeling full and our waistlines bulging with naughtiness. It’ll be a taxi to and from Tenby next month to give those cocktails the time they deserve and the wine list a serious interrogation.

Diablo’s 13 Market Square, Narberth SA67 7AU 01834 869944 Also at 5 St. Mary’s Street, Carmarthen Carmarthenshire SA31 1TN 01267 232755 enquiries@diabloscarmarthen.co.uk www.diabloscarmarthen.co.uk

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T ENBY

CA R M A R THEN SHIR E

Traditional cuisine puts Ocean on the map

Dedicated trails for bon viveurs Carmarthenshire is full of foodie surprises, from a squirrel meat stall in Carmarthen Market, some of Wales’ best laver bread and cockles found on its shores, and the newly acclaimed ‘Best Restaurant in Wales’, Y Polyn, hiding in the sleepy village of Capel Dewi.

Ocean restaurant in Tenby is now in its fifth season under management duo, Viorel Vlasceanu and Alex Steele, Manager and Head Chef respectively. With magnificent picturesque sea and harbour views from the two storey restaurant, with a ground floor bistro and first floor fine dining room, Ocean really is a must visit establishment.

To help visitors uncover the county’s real ‘food heroes’ a number of food trails have been launched online at http://bit.ly/LFgTKr guiding you around Carmarthenshire’s very best food producers from farm shops, pie shops, delis and pubs, to restaurants.

There are unique experiences too, such as bearded fisherman Big Bill in Llansteffan who cooks up his catch every weekend and serves it up in his living room. The three mapped trails make it easy to avoid the supermarkets, experience the county’s authentic tastes and gain an understanding of the agricultural landscape.

Serving a wonderful variety of international cuisine, but specialising in beautiful traditional Italian dishes, there’s something for everyone for every occasion. Almost all produce is locally sourced and every dish is freshly prepared. Highlights are the great selection of fresh fish and seafood together with sumptuous Welsh Beef and belly pork.

Ocean offers a breakfast menu, morning coffees, light lunch menu including sandwiches, salads or omelettes as well as a more substantial all day menu all served in the newly refurbished ground floor bistro. They also offer a special early evening two course menu for only £11.95. Vio and Alex would also be delighted to create a bespoke menu and wine list for your special occasion if you wish to book one with them.

Ocean Restaurant St. Julian Street, Tenby Pembrokshire SA70 7AY 01834 844536 info@tenby-oceanrestaurant.co.uk www.tenby-oceanrestaurant.co.uk

01267 231557 www.discovercarmarthenshire.com

Barbucci

Bay of Bengal

Looking for a great night out with a wonderful selection of outstanding Indian cuisine and a relaxed and friendly atmosphere?

Exquisite curry and the best view in Tenby. What could be better?

Raj, the owner, has been serving up authentic dishes to Tenby locals and tourists for fourteen years.

Barbucci is the perfect restaurant for you with a funky asian style deco playing music from around the world and an extensive menu including Bangladeshi dishes and great vegetarian options. Most dishes can be tailored to your palette so whether you like it hot or mild, they can cater to your taste!

Enjoy an all-you-can-eat sunday buffet that will fill the whole family. With prices at £3.95 (under 12s), £5.95 (under 16s) and £7.95 (adults) it won’t break the bank either.

Warren Street, Tenby SA70 7JY 01834 845045 www.barbucci.co.uk

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The menu is eclectic from mild to very hot. The Goan Chicken Curry Bengal House special is sublime, no artificial food colouring here. You can choose to eat in the relaxed restaurant with stunning views or order a takeaway which comes with a 10% discount.

Even better, Bay of Bengal serves no alcohol so feel free to bring a bottle of your favourite tipple to enjoy with your meal.

1 Crackwell St, Tenby SA70 7HA 01834 843 331 www.bayofbengaltenby.com

LLANELL I

Alone on a Friday night in Llanelli…

Fortunately I’m sitting on the sun terrace of Sosban sipping raspberry Prosecco. The night is warm and the converted hydraulic pump house looks stunning.

I’m whisked inside to my corner booth which is comfortable and makes dining alone very civilised. There is a party on tonight at one end of the restaurant; a mixture of couples and families with children. The space is cavernous and accommodates eclectic clientele with ease. The acoustic is wonderful, must be the stone walls. So often in new restaurants one can’t hear oneself with all the sounds bouncing off the highly polished surfaces.

Bread and water arrive (always included in the bill) and my wine, Domaine Du Verdier Saint Chinian 2008. Ask for your red to be decanted because the choice on offer is so good, I feel some of them really open up over an hour or so. The house water is ice cold and served in little funky bottles.

I’m being greedy again with two starters (all for the benefit of you the reader you understand), choosing crab lasagne and smoked salmon. I know I should have white with seafood but, sometimes, you just fancy a red.

The crab lasagne is inventive with a sauce that packs a punch. The asparagus with the smoked salmon perfectly al dente, wolfed down with rustic bread and very salty butter.

Now, for the duck. Oh my God (OMG if I was texting), it’s gorgeous. Pink Barbary breast, a leg, rich sauce and nestled on Sarladaise potatoes. I remind myself that this is why I ordered the red. The succulent breast combines perfectly with the crispy leg and there’s some greenery; crispy Chinese cabbage to combat the richness.

I ask for a long pause between main course and pudding...

Lemon tart is all I can manage for dessert and I’m hard pushed to finish it.

Washed down with a rich Americano, I watch as one of the bar waiters checks a glass he is polishing in the light. Nice attention to detail. The staff are young and friendly and Sosban is informal yet manages to serve up top quality nosh.

There are four owners involved, including two stars of the Welsh rugby field and, I get a sense that they have really thought carefully about every aspect, from the crisp, linen napkins with their reclaimed copper wraparound bar to the expansive sun terrace and its St. Tropez furniture.

There’s a nice footnote on the menu which catches my eye...‘Unless we tell you otherwise, pork is from pedigree Welsh breed pigs on the Gower. Lamb is from the Preseli Hills. The smoked food is from Crickhowell. Beef is from farms in north and mid Wales. Chicken is from Pembrokeshire. Fish and shellfish are landed around the Welsh coast and the chef is from Kidwelly.’

Style and humour! A great meal, in a fantastic venue.

Sosban North Dock, Llanelli Carmarthenshire SA15 2LF 01554 270020 www.sosbanrestaurant.com

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NA RBER TH

Narberth Food Festival September 22 - 23 The award-winning Narberth Food Festival will be cooking up plenty of treats for everyone when it takes place in the Pembrokeshire town on September 22nd and 23rd.

Family fun, street entertainment, live music, masterclasses and workshops, a young chefs competition, a kids’ education day and plenty of food, glorious food will all add to the mix of this friendly, volunteer-run festival, which scooped Gold in the Best Event category of the 2011 Pembrokeshire Tourism awards.

Some of the superb Pembrokeshire produce that so frequently sees the county featuring in Welsh and UK food awards will be amongst the goodies on over 50 stalls in the festival’s massive marquee.

Event patrons, Angela Gray and Elisabeth Luard, will be cooking up a storm in the demonstration kitchen, along with Stephen Terry of The Hardwick, Abergavenny; Professional Masterchef semi-finalist Ludovic Dieumegard and The Modern Pantry’s Anna Hansen, who proved a festival favourite on her first visit last year.

The festival’s fun-filled flavour spills out into the streets of the busy centre of Narberth, whose eclectic range of businesses earned it a nomination for Google’s ‘best shopping street’ award.

Narberth Food Festival takes place on the Town Moor, Narberth from 10am-6pm on Saturday September 22nd and 10am-4pm on Sunday September 23rd.

For more information, visit www.narberthfoodfestival.com or the Narberth Food Festival page on Facebook.

Narberth Food Festival’s chairman, Lynne Cromptom says, “We may not be the biggest food festival around, but people tell us we’re the friendliest, and we try to be that little bit different and offer a good day out for everybody.”

And in the words of one stallholder, “I love the friendly vibe and mix of music, talks and stalls. Great!” So come along and sample it for yourself!

CA RMA R THE N

Get Stuffed Pizza Co. Authentic Italian cuisine Get Stuffed Pizza Co prides themselves on using the freshest ingredients to create the very best in pizza quality. Their dough is made fresh daily with an authentic recipe creating the lightest fluffiest deep pan base that melts in your mouth. Alternatively you can choose the thin base Italian style crusts, which are nice and crispy.

With a restaurant, take away and home delivery service available seven nights a week, all year round, you’ll never go hungry. If you fancy dinner out with friends or on the sofa with a film with your loved one, Get Stuffed Pizza Co is the perfect pizza company!

With three restaurants around the West Wales area - Carmarthen, Tenby and their newest in Narberth, there is sure to be a restaurant near you.

But these aren’t just your regular old Hawaiian and Margareta Pizza’s (although I’m sure that you could get them if you want). Get Stuffed Pizza has some fantastically inventive pizzas on offer, with some really catchy names too.

So, why not try ‘The Rossini’ Pepperoni, chilli beef, chicken tikka and onion topped with red Leicester Cheese. Or tackle ‘The Mountain’ Mexican chicken, mushroom, pepperoni, sweetcorn, prawns, mixed peppers and double cheese. With prices ranging from £5.10 to just £9.50 it’s not going to break the bank but will satisfy your appetite!

It’s not just pizza they have to offer.

Fancy something extra? Try their amazing garlic bread, choose from their great selection of hot filled baguettes or jacket potatoes. Maybe one of their made-to-order pastas or salad dishes will tickle your fancy? With a selection of appetisers and desserts, you’ll have your whole meal sorted. So, give them a ring or just pop in to your local restaurant, they will be happy to help and will feed you well!

Get Stuffed Pizza Co. Carmarthen Unit 7, Cambrian Way John Street, Carmarthen SA31 1QN (at the back of M&S) 01267 220077 Tenby 9 - 12 The Mews, Upper Frog Street Tenby SA70 7JD 01834 845945 Narberth 8 - 9 Market Square Narberth 01834 860070 info@getstuffedpizza.com www.getstuffedpizza.com

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TENBY

Eat like a King at Plantagenet House Jimmy Carter, Richard Harris, Ralph Fiennes, Christian Slater and Tony Robinson have all enjoyed fine dining at Plantagenet House.

If this place is good enough for an ex-president and Baldrick, then it’s good enough for me.

Friday night and the place is buzzing.

Abundant candles set the mood and the quiet contented hub-bub of the diners provides a reassuring audio backdrop.

Plantagenet House is so cosy and welcoming that I’m sure the charismatic and energetic host, Barney Stone, wouldn’t mind if you turned up in your slippers and dressing gown.

This is a place to lounge, to take your time, to savour the atmosphere and order yet another drink/bottle/case.

Upstairs now for the main event and we hungrily tuck into our rustic sundried tomato and olive oil bread and butter. Big thumbs up. At our corner table we can survey the diners, and Barney working the room.

The atmosphere is relaxed, no pomp and circumstance, with assured quality.

This is a well rehearsed restaurant with experienced waiting staff.

We are ushered downstairs to the Quay Room for pre-dinner drinks - a Dirty Rosso (don’t ask), and a Bombay Sapphire G & T are served up and we settle into our surroundings. Welshie has been ordering Dirty Rosso since she saw them in a Jennifer Aniston film.

She made me order one at Cresswell Quay once - I nearly got lynched.

The Quay Room is open for homemade cakes and coffee throughout the day but, when night falls, it takes on the character of a speakeasy - all dark corners, sculptures and ships timbers.

Tony Robinson’s other guise in Time Team would have an absolute field day in Plantagenet House. It may be the oldest house in Tenby with its Flemish chimney dating back to the tenth Century.

Mussels for Welshie to start and I cheat by having two starters: crab bisque and scallops. The bisque is thick and very rich, scallops are served on a half shell with grapefruit. Nice touch this last bit as it cleanses the pallet and cuts through. I can’t get a word out of Welshie - her mussels must be good.

We are treated to a vignette of sweets: the crème brulee is divine, the blackcurrant sorbet punchy and the chocolate like velvet. Apparently, the mother-in-law makes all the desserts.

Can’t say I’ve ever eaten like this at my out-laws. Barney insists we accompany this sugar fest with a dessert wine which I wouldn’t normally go for. This one is sweet and dry and celebrates the Queen’s 80th birthday.

God bless you ma’am.

Plantagenet House used to be a temperance hotel and I’m glad to say that it isn’t anymore. Time to powder my nose and I’m snuck into the ladies for the ‘best view in the house’.

You’ll see what I mean.

When she finally comes up for air, they are apparently clean and fresh and of generous proportions. The wine is a 2011 Sauvignon Blanc from Shaw & Smith. It’s buttery, mellow, chilled and eminently quaffable.

A nice pause follows between starters and main course. Some restaurants just do not get this. They hurry you up as they churn tables - none of this at Plantagenet House. The service is seamless and unobtrusive.

My halibut arrives, thick and succulent a gorgeous piece of fish. Served on a bed of mash with spinach and surrounded by mussels like little fishy guardians. Welshie has the fillet steak medium to well done which is sacrilege in my book. With a piece of meat this good, simply rip the horns off and put it on the plate! It still slices like butter though and the bearnaise sauce is delectable as are the very thick cut chips. ❧ 12 ❧

Plantagenet House Quay Hill, Tudor Square Tenby SA70 7BX 01834 842350

“Take your time and savour the atmosphere.”

TENBY

Chilling at The Mews Surf Bar & Grill For those in the Tenby know, Frog Street is the place to be. Away from the madding crowd it reveals its secrets as you wander uphill notably The Coach & Horses, the oldest pub in Tenby and claim to Dylan Thomas fame, and a wonderful collection of shops and salons. Pandora’s shop tucked away in a cobbled mews houses a treasure trove of trinkets and musthaves. Carry on a little further and take a left by Daisy Doo’s and you will spy The Mews Surf Bar & Grill.

Welshie and I decide to seek out The Mews to see what treats are in store. As we enter, David (chef and owner) is wielding a huge fan over coals stacked in a Parrilla grill bringing them up to heat. All the food is cooked in this Peruvian fashion, giving the meats a distinctive taste.

There is a healthy mix of families and couples at our 8pm sitting and we have a table with a view onto the courtyard.

Overhead fairy lights are strung tastefully across the walkway and heaters provide toasty warmth. I’m already thinking the Mews is the perfect place to escape the Tenby summer throng and we enjoy a chilled bottle of Rose.

The expansive menu caters for all tastes, including three very tempting vegetarian dishes. Having said that, someone has to tackle the ultimate burger - at 10 inches high, the menu boasts that this will ‘keep you going until tomorrow lunchtime’! If you do, please send a postcard to West Life towers and let us know how you got on. Our suitably chilled and fruity Pinot Grigio arrives at the same time as our starters. The flat field mushroom dippers are divine: breaded on the outside and succulent inside.

The hand-made chicken liver pate divides opinion. Welshie prefers her pate a little rougher and meatier while I am in seventh heaven. I simply cannot get enough of the stuff. David infuses the pate with chilli and lemongrass and I think it is the latter that has me hooked. Mixed Italian cheese bites dipped in cranberry are duly dealt with and we find ourselves topping up our glasses. Slow down foodies.

Baby back pork ribs finish off the starters and are smothered in a barbeque sauce - yummy, so far, so good. I try to stop you know who wolfing all the starters because I know the mains are inbound - she doesn’t listen. What a surprise.

Time for a slight pause as the plates are cleared and we survey our surroundings. A prominent wood burner presides proudly against one wall and whirring fans overhead take me back to my travels to South and Central America. Only the Dorian Spencer Davies canvas reminds us of the bustling Tenby harbour just down the hill. The funky music is welcome and unobtrusive. The light has started to fade outside now and the twinkling lights lend an air of romance to the proceedings.

“There’s an easy going feeling at The Mews.”

Now it gets serious. Delivered to our table are springbok, crocodile, kangaroo and bison. This really is a case of ‘I’m A Celebrity, DON’T Get Me Out Of Here!’ These meats are a first for both of us and, to tell you the truth, we are a little apprehensive. I go first, gingerly tucking into some crocodile meat - it is rich and flavoursome.

Soon our fears are put aside and our inner carnivore gets the better of us.

The bison is char-grilled and earthy.

The Kangaroo is pleasantly peppered and tender. Springbok is a full meat explosion and quite a surprise.

Chips, jacket potato and salad also accompany the meats.

Surf and Turf is a salty sea bass laid on a plump sirloin steak. The medium rare sirloin seems a bit tame after the exotica but is gorgeous just the same and is accompanied with a delicate sauce containing a peppery bite. The chicken burrito is unwrapped from its foil and is demolished. I’m a big fan of the burrito, the soft meaty parcel saw me through two months in Mexico.

I am planning to skip dessert on the grounds of being too full. Welshie forces me into a sorbet situation and I’m glad she does. Hers, the blackcurrant, is exquisite: tangy and bitty. My mango is a fruity, icy and a thankfully light concoction. We are full.

‘My Sloggis are going to burst!’ Welshie exclaims. Enough said.

The Mews Surf Bar & Grill Upper Frog Street, Tenby Pembrokeshire SA70 7JD 01834 844 068 www.mewssurfbargrill.co.uk

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Image courtesy of Pembrokeshire County Council Tourism Department www.visitpembrokeshire.com

If you’d like to suggest a restaurant or eatery in West Wales, please email jennifer@westlifewales.co.uk

TENBY

Probably the prettiest seaside town in Wales, Tenby rivals places like Mevagissey and Polperro in Cornwall for quaintness and charm.

The classic postcard view of Tenby harbour is from The Norton, a road that runs along the cliff top above North Beach. You can find several good hotels here. Several of the old hotels hereabouts were converted to self catering flats.

The Victorian seaside development on the west side of town, outside the town walls, was fairly limited so doesn't detract from the general ambience of the town. The imposing hotels along The Esplanade look over Tenby's South Beach towards Caldey Island. In the neighbouring streets you can also find plenty of B&Bs, guest houses and self catering apartments. Tenby has 3 Blue Flag beaches. North Beach faces east and is nicely sheltered if the prevailing

south westerly wind is blowing. Castle Beach faces south and also has high cliffs backing it, while South Beach stretches uninterrupted for a mile to Giltar Point and is perfect for all sorts of beach games like volleyball.

In between North Beach and Castle Beach is the picturesque harbour, which also has a sandy beach. The harbour is clean and sheltered so is a good place for toddlers. Regular boat trips run from Tenby harbour to Caldey Island when the tide is in.

The centre of Tenby is a maze of narrow streets which are pedestrianised during the day in the summer months when the bars and restaurants set up al fresco seating.

Images courtesy of Pembrokeshire County Council Tourism Department www.visitpembrokeshire.com

There are plenty of interesting and quirky shops. There’s also the National Trust owned Tudor Merchant's House and the independently run Tenby Museum and Art Gallery to visit, amongst many other visitor attractions in Tenby. Tenby was designated as a conservation area by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in 1972.

Tenby Tourist Information Centre is located next to the multi storey car park and there is a Visitor Centre run by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park by ‘Five Arches’, one of the gateways into the old town.

Pandora’s Shop

The Glass Gallery

OceanBlue

Come and experience Brychan Yard in the heart of Tenby and step into a world of sparkling colour and beautiful art.

The Glass Gallery is a working studio/gallery exhibiting the work of artists Neil and Diane Croucher, where visitors can view the finished work spread over 2 galleries and check out the work-inprogress, plus chat with the artists themselves.

Looking for something different?

OceanBlue are an exciting new retailer on Tenby High Street specialising in the exotic.

Pandora’s Shop is filled with exotic and unusual gifts from around the world; rugs, cushions, cards, fair trade clothing and more. Also visit Opal Glass, a fascinating stained glass workshop where you can create your very own traditional stained glass window with excellent tuition or choose from a variety of handmade gifts specially designed and made in-house by Pandora Hughes. Brychan Yard is unique, quaint and definitely worth a visit.

Brychan Yard, Upper Frog Street, Tenby 01834 842 971 or 01834 871 139

Situated on South Parade in Tenby this great gallery exhibits a collection of contemporary and traditional stained and fused glass in the form of fused glass panels, mirrors, sculptures and jewellery.

Picton Villa South Parade, Tenby SA70 7DG 01834 849351 neil@the-glass-gallery.co.uk www.the-glass-gallery.co.uk

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They sell a wide range of products including knitwear, vintage/antique collections, jewellery, home furnishings and clothing. All of their products are ‘fairly traded’ sourced from across the globe from countries such as India, Nepal, Madagascar and Thailand. There really is something for everyone here, not just for women, and their range of men’s clothing is often a pleasant surprise. So next time you’re in Tenby why not look them up?

21 High Street, Tenby SA70 7HD 01834 849107 www.oceanbluetenby.co.uk

My Little Treasures

Gower View

Located at The Pottery Shed in Tenby, My Little Treasures produce baby keepsakes to capture your most precious memories and help them last a lifetime. Babies grow up quickly so capturing their tiny feet and hands will help the memory of them at that age stay fresh in your mind for years.

With so much to see and do in Tenby - four beaches, regular festivals, thriving nightlife, castles, caves and forts, it’s no wonder that it’s on many people’s top ten of holiday destinations. If you’re looking for a boutique style bed and breakfast perfectly situated between Gumfreston and St. Florence - only two miles from the town itself, then Gower View Luxury Bed and Breakfast is sure to fit the bill.

My Little Treasures specialise in bespoke silver fingerprint, handprint or footprint jewellery, clay imprints and raised impressions of baby handprints and footprints on a number of pottery items or framed gift sets. Plus new 3D castings of babies hands and feet or mummies pregnant belly cast.

If you’re after a unique gift you could also get a personalised plate for a Wedding, Christening, Birthday, Anniversary or any other occasion.

Or, if you fancy turning your hand to pottery painting yourself, why not book a group party or drop in on one of their Pottery Shed Cafe Days.

Why not join one of their successful sewing workshops – you might uncover a hidden talent!

With only two individually styled rooms with en-suites, guarantees you great service and attention to detail.

Picture yourself in the ‘Arts and Crafts’ bedroom with superking bed or the ‘Oriental Garden Room’ with kingsize four poster and French doors opening onto your own patio to communal garden.

Owner Janey Evers, an interior designer, has worked her magic on this property which faces south east and offers wonderful views across to Tenby and the Gower Peninsular. Luxurious Egyptian cotton bed linen and fluffy white towels await.

The Jewellery Junkee This adorable little shop is a girly heaven, overflowing with one-of-akind handcrafted pieces and amazing bath and beauty items.

Run by the talented Liz, most of the jewellery is made on-site and is unique from Swarovski Crystal Necklaces to beautiful Dichroic Glass Jewellery and a selection of Fashion Costume Jewellery.Their fantastic gourmet bath range of handmade soaps and bath bombs are made especially for the store.

Liz creates beautiful Gift Sets that make perfect gifts for Birthdays, Thank You’s and much, much more! With their unique cute packaging The Jewellery Junkee is The-One-Stop-Gift-Shop!

Cobra House, Upper Frog St Tenby SA70 7JD 01834 843 499

My Little Treasures

Gower View Luxury Bed & Breakfast

1 Cheltenham House, Tudor Square Tenby SA70 7AD

1 Gower View, Gumfreston Tenby, Pembrokeshire SA70 8RB

01834 844894 a.andrews205@btinternet.com www.potteryshed.co.uk

Contact Janey on 01834 844974 info@gowerviewtenby.co.uk www.gowerviewtenby.co.uk

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They say the only way is up but, for the Ashton family, owning the house of their dreams became something of a sideways move.

West Life takes a closer look.

GLASS

HOUSE We first came across this stunning home when it was featured on the cover of the September 2010 issue of Self Build & Design magazine so upon reading the article, I was surprised and intrigued to see the property was in South Wales.

As someone who would ultimately like to self build, I couldn’t help but admire the design and creativity that had gone into its creation.

Mike and Pam Ashton had hoped to extend their existing home sideways when the 1930’s bungalow next door came onto the market in 2005.

With much deliberation, they came to the conclusion that completely replacing the bungalow with a brand new home was a far more practical solution. After exploring various ideas, including building an oak framed property, the couple chose to build in rendered block-work with a natural slate roof.

The creative design includes a basement garage, workshop and den.

Bedrooms are on the ground floor with a gorgeous open plan living, dining and kitchen area on the first floor which opens on to front and rear balconies framed with nautical themed stainless steel balustrades.

Mark Nayler, Managing Director of Vellacine said, “This was a wonderful project to be associated with. The tower and high level windows are glazed with Pilkington Activ Blue - a stunning blue glass that combines self cleaning properties with solar control for a cooler interior.”

One of the most striking features of the build is the glass. There seems to be acres of it. Blue aluminium-framed doors and windows from Cardiff-based Vellacine, the window and conservatory centre, ensure the light floods in, and their views over the water to the Devon and Cornish coast beyond are uninterrupted.

Owners Mike and Pam declared, “We chose Ocean Blue coloured aluminium frames, which complement the glass, and the self cleaning coating means we don’t have to worry about reaching the higher windows.”

Mark added, “We manufacture all our frames right here at our facility in Cardiff. We work with many different types of client from schools, architects and builders and some of our contracts are very large. However, projects on the scale of Mike and Pam’s are particularly enjoyable as they’re a little outside the norm and demonstrate that frames don’t have to be simply white or black. It gives us enormous satisfaction when we see features like the one in the magazine as you see the effect it has on the end user. Vellacine is delighted to have been associated with this project.”

You can’t help being impressed with Mike and Pam’s house. The stylish combination of contemporary design and natural materials; slate, glass, wood and stainless steel, has created a beautiful contemporary home and one that will be an inspiration to other self build enthusiasts.

Vellacine Limited The Window and Conservatory Centre Hadfield Road Leckwith, Cardiff CF11 8AQ 029 2022 8578 enquiries@vellacine.com www.vellacine.com

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Thanks to Ross Stokes, Editor of Self Build & Design magazine and Steve Taylor for his beautiful photographs. The full story appeared in the September 2010 issue of Self Build & Design magazine. Visit www.sbdonline.co.uk for more information.

RED, WHITE & BLUE With the Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics, 2012 is a great year to be British! Here’s a great selection of items, all by brilliant British Designers.

LEEKES OF LLANTRISANT SCALES, 19.99 CREW CLOTHING UNION JACK UMBRELLA, £35

LEEKES OF LLANTRISANT HOME CANVAS, £8

NEXT UNION JACK PHONE, £40

LEEKES OF LLANTRISANT CAKE STAND, £8 LEEKES OF LLANTRISANT BAG, FROM £8

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BEST BEAUTY BUYS

MAC PREP & PRIME FORTIFIED SKIN ENHANCER ILLUMINATOR, £21

Our favourite products to help you look and smell amazing this summer.

PRINCE £4.99 FOR 100G £8.95 FOR 225G

MAC TINTED LIP CONDITIONER, £11

TOM FORD BRONZING POWDER RRP£65

CLINIQUE EVEN BETTER DARK SPOT CORRECTING HAND CREAM, £22.50

CLINIQUE EVENT BETTER SKIN TONE CORRECTING LOTION, £35

JO MALONE, THE HAYES, CARDIFF LUSH AVAILABLE AT WWW.LUSH.CO.UK TOM FORD BEAUTY AND FRAGRANCE, HOUSE OF FRASER, CARDIFF MAC, CAPITOL SHOPPING CENTRE, CARDIFF CLINIQUE, ESTEE LAUDER, CREME DE LA MER, DEPARTMENT STORES, CARDIFF

TOM FORD NEROLI PORTOFINO EAU FRAICHE £85

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CLINIQUE SUPERBALANCED POWDER BRONZER, £25 JO MALONE VELVET ROSE & OUD COLOGNE 100ML, £95

MAC MINERALIZE SKINFINISH, £20.50

CLINIQUE EVEN BETTER CONCEALER, £18

CLINIQUE CHUBBY STICKS, £16

ESTÉE LAUDER IDEALIST EVEN SKINTONE ILLUMINATOR, RRP £46 ESTÉE LAUDER DAYWEAR ANTI-OXIDANT BB CRÈME SPF 35, RRP £32

CREME DE LA MER, THE GREAT BRITISH LIMITED EDITION, £1,150

ESTÉE LAUDER IDEALIST EYE COOLING ILLUMINATOR, RRP £40

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PICTURE PERFECT Paul Cornish and Jac Williams are photographers with a passion for beautiful imagery. Whether it’s people, places or products, it’s all fuel for their creative fire. In this issue we focus on their beautiful wedding photography.

How long have you been trading as wedding photographers?

It’s been five fabulous years with our business building year on year. We are almost at wedding saturation point with limited availability for this year but it’s definitely worth giving us a call!

What’s your style of photography?

There are loads of influences in what we do, but essentially, we capture what our clients ask us to based on what they want at the end? If our couples want a very classical styled album then it makes sense to shoot more classical shots, if they want an avant garde style, we will shoot for that, modern, paparazzi, fashion... It simply depends on them.

Why should a couple book you?

Trying to be modest here but, we are really good at what we do. We give an awesome package for a reasonable price tag. We train constantly to improve our skills and thus our offering to our clients. Our unique selling point is that even at our very high level, we don’t charge based on time but on the end result, we don’t have a complicated time based pricing system.

What advice would you give to a bride looking for a photographer?

Other than come straight to us first, look for someone who understands light. If you see images with bright noses and dark eyes, don’t book them and if you see people with horizons going through their heads or if you feel unsure about the person you are talking to, don’t book them.

How do you discover what style will suit them?

By talking to them, discovering who they are, we probably spend around 4 hours with our couples chatting prior to their day. Every wedding is unique, we ensure our quality and standards are high then use our expertise and knowledge to interpret what our couples want.

Other than that, it’s wise to consider a professional photographer with insurance and backup kit who can show you complete albums of good quality work. They’ll probably do a good job for you. You should still book us if we are available though!

Photography by Paul and Jacs 42 Beale Close, Llandaff Cardiff CF5 2RU 029 2056 5076 07966 925077 paul@paulandjacs.com www.paulandjacs.com Like on Facebook

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LIFE’S A BEACH

LENITA-XTG.COM, £52.50 Great bold pattern unlike anything else I have seen on the highstreet. You’ll really stand out from the crowd in this bikini!

The summer has finally arrived and with it has come the sun! Hurray! So some of you will be taking holidays soon and others will be planning trips to the beach or just sunbathing in the garden. The one thing you’ll all be needing is a swimsuit - that goes for the gentlemen too!

So, for this fashion feature we’ve chosen some of the best beach wear from the high street and some independent online suppliers.

The big theme with swimwear for the ladies this season is vintage styled suits. Keep an eye out for these as they are very flattering on all sizes. Or if vintage isn’t you, go for something bold and floral.

That’s very much on trend this summer. For men, bright and bold patterned trunks are everywhere, so be brave and show off your fun side in a pair of these.

Obviously you can’t just wear a bathing suit all the time so we’ve also found a selection of summer accessories to wear too.

Try donning a trilby or straw hat (that goes for men too!), a pair of comfy espadrilles or flip flops, an ethnic kaftan or comfy loose tshirt, some aviator shades or catseye sunnies, and don’t forget the big beach bag to pack it all in!

But, most of all, wear stuff you’re comfortable with, enjoy yourself and, of course, don’t forget to put the lotion in the basket!

TULA BEACH TOTE, £19 Colourful and practical with a novelty twist! available from Radley, St David’s 2, Cardiff

ACCESSORIZE, £28 This great swimsuit has a sweet ditsy floral print contrasted with a tiny bit of stripped trim, so cute!

J BY JASPER CONRAN, DEBENHAMS, £16 floppy hats are all the rage and this one is both stylish and elegant.

HEAD OVER HEELS, £18 How cute are these flip flops? The tiny flowers make them very sweet and girly and the rubber means they’re waterproof, so you can paddle right into the sea!

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M∙A∙C Senior Artist, Cher Webb’s top beach products

MATALAN SWIMWEAR, HAWAIIAN PRINT TOP, £6, BOTTOMS, £5 This hawaiian print isn’t for the faint hearted! You’re sure to be noticed in this ‘out there’ print. The frills add a girly edge.

DUNNES, TOP AND SWIM SKIRT, £8 EACH This suit screams retro with that frill and pleated skirt bottom. If you’re less confident about your hips and bikini region a swim skirt is the perfect answer.

PREP AND PRIME FORTIFIED SKIN ENHANCER SPF 35 IN ‘ADJUST’, RRP £21 An essential product to protect from the sun’s rays whilst nourishing and conditioning the skin.

A must have!

TINTED LIP CONDITIONER SPF 15 IN FUCHSIA FIX, RRP £11 Give a summery glaze to the lip whilst protecting and moisturising.

ZOOM WATERFAST LASH BLACK,RRP £14 You can swim and dance in the waves with no smudging whatsoever!

M&CO £22 Nautical stripes and beachwear go hand in hand so this is the perfect bag for a day at the seaside.

CLEAR BROW SET, RRP£11.50 Set to tame down eyebrows, keeping them a neat focus whilst bathing and enjoying the beach.

MATALAN, £14 The beach isn’t usually the place for glittery stuff, but add just a touch of bling with these super glittery sandals.

M·A·C MINERALIZE SKINFINISH RRP £20.50 One or two shades darker than your skin tone, this will give you a healthy, bronzed glow whilst mattifyng the complexion in the heat.

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FAT FACE, £35 A bold floral print but in B&W so its not too girly.

FAT FACE, £18 Take a leaf out of Olly Murs’ book and don a trilby, youll look cool and fun and approachable to all those girls

BURTONS, £12 Aviators with a difference. Tortoise shell may be a feminine thing, but fashion is blurring the boundaries this year, so don a pair if you’re man enough!

BANK, £16 You can’t stay topless all the time, so this graphic tee is cool and bold to keep the women looking!

MATALAN, £12 Nautical stripes are always a big summer trend, so these are bound to be a big hit and the’re a total bargain!

FAT FACE, £25 Blue stripes are stereotypically male.

These are a little different with the faded worn look.

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BURTONS, £5 Jewellery may not be your thing, but these surfer beads will make you look cool and trendy whilst on the beach.

ACCESSORIZE, £35 Perfect to wear over a swimsuit, on its own or wear it as a top with shorts or jeans at the beachside bar.

ASOS, £12 Cats eye glasses are hot and these are so amazing! Not just the great extra pointy shape but also the purple tinted lenses are beautiful.

ACCESSORIZE, £32 A kaftan is a perfect beach or pool side cover up to throw over your cossie. It’s loose and light, so you wont get too warm. Plus this pattern is bold but not too garish.

BERTIE, £60 These shoes are really comfortable are the little beads make them a little different to most espadrilles and add a surfer edge.

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DOROTHY PERKINS, £28 What could be more beautiful or retro - bold red and white polka dots and a keyhole cutout makes it sexy and eye catching.

MATALAN, £6 It isn't just the guys who can wear a trilby! If the floopy sunhat isn’t your style try this straw trilby with floral band. Feminine without being too girly!

FROST FRENCH, DEBENHAMS TOP £22, BOTTOMS, £14 A lovely bright colourful pattern and the top of the suits gives a beautiful shape.

Great to enhance a smaller bust

FIFTY PLUS, £50 It may be from Fifty Plus but I think every woman would look beautiful in this stunningly embroidered kaftan.

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EVANS, £33 1970s retro print is bold and beautiful. Perfectly structured to support and show off a bigger bust and shorts bottoms which are far more flattering then the tiny bikini bottoms you usually get

MONSOON, £65 Could there be a more elegant way to cover up on your holiday?

This stunning beaded maxi is the height of elegance.

MATALAN, £12 Another Matalan bargain!

This stunning silk kaftan hits the scarf print trend in a big way.

Loose and colourful, it’ll suit everyone

ISME, £25 This is the perfect holiday bag.

Nice and big but beautifully girly with the lace appliqué. Throw in your sun lotion, water bottle and a book and you’re ready to go,

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F+F, TESCO, SWIM SUIT, £14 HAT, £10, SUNGLASSES, £5 A perfect combo. Floral cossie, straw hat, vintage shades - brilliant!

Years ago when someone mentioned going to a festival, the image that came to mind was of grungey hippies or hardcore rockers but, ever since Kate Moss made festivalgoing popular, everyone wants to be at one and, more importantly, be seen there.

Festival sites aren’t as bad as they used to be either. These days you can expect a bit more luxury – think glamping with yurts and boudoir bed and breakfasts. But what to wear?

We don’t all have Kate Moss’s body or her money, so what does one wear to a festival these days?

Hopefully we’ve given you a few ideas. What we can’t guarantee is the sun, so you might end up covered in mud anyway. Isn’t that part of the fun though? Here’s hoping there’ll be some sunshine and you won’t get mud in your sandwiches!

NEXT, LUREX VEST, £22 Belted maxi skirt £35, Paisley scarf £10, Straw fedora £12 Simple block items look great with bold accessories.

FASHION FEST

MATALAN, £20 This stunning dress is just perfect for the summer.

The print is very vintage but the dropped hem makes it totally modern.

MOROCCAN BACKPACK HAFEZA, £75 When you think boho bags this is the kind of thing that comes to mind. Tribal pattern and slouchy style this is perfect for the festival circuit. www.bohemiadesign.co.uk

REPUBLIC, £TBC Why not don the star spangled banner and be bold? Cropped tied shirts are set to be a big trend this summer.

GREY WOODCUT FLORAL WELLINGTONS, £13.98 Glastonbury has a reputation for turning into a mud fest so don’t forget some cute girly wellies!

ECO TRAVEL CASE, £24.99 The Eco Travel Case is made from recycled hemp bags so every one is unique, and its good for the environment.

What more could you want!

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M∙A∙C Senior Artist, Cher Webb’s top festival products

PRO LONGWEAR LIPSTICK IN GOOD, RRP £16.50 To Go or Unlimited Red for a bright pop of fun colour that lasts for hours with no bleeding or fading.

TOPSHOP, DENIM CROPPED WAISTCOAT, £35 Wear over a tee or as a crop on its own if you’re brave enough! Personally I would wear over a graphic vest top with a bright flowing skirt.

BANK, SLEEVELESS BLOUSE, £22 Just the right amount of bling to add a little sparkle to your outfit. Not my colour but would look great at a beach festival to make you stand out from the crowd.

SUPERSLICK EYE LINER IN ‘ON THE HUNT’, RRP £15.50 Sweep this across your lash line to create a neat or dramatic liner. This transfer/water resistant liner will be rocked for your whole festival!

Amazing longevity and colour payoff.

LEATHER BELT, £69 A simple way to add some edge to an outfit is by adding a nice chunky leather belt. www.jaedi.co.uk

ZOOM LASH BLACK MASCARA, RRP £14 For super dramatic lashes that are lengthened in seconds with its unique slimline applicator.

NEXT, MAXI SKIRT, £25 Available in fuchsia, mustard and emerald, these stunning jewel toned basic maxis are great for all occasions and at £25 you could buy all 3!

PRO LONGWEAR FOUNDATION, RRP £22.50 Medium coverage liquid texture that lasts up to 12 hours with no need for touch up’s. Spf of 15 - perfect for when the rain stops!

Once this foundation is applied you don’t need to think about it; zero maintenance makeup.

TOPSHOP, AZTEC SHORTS, £32 I love these cute little aztec shorts.

Perfect for the beach or a field.

And the aztec print is big this summer

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HOGSTY VEST, £54, SHORTS, £TBC Bold shorts are going to be big this season, and vests are a super addition to a simple tank top. www.nikitaclothing.com

MONSOON, CHAMBRAY KAFTAN, £48 This sweet little chambray dress is so cute.

Channel your inner hippy child with a daisy chain headband!

BEADED LEATHER WRAP BRACELET, £44.95 Natural looking stones are everywhere in jewellery and these turquoise ones are simple and will add a hint of colour. www.wowthankyou.co.uk

FREEDOM AT TOPSHOP, FEATHER HEADBAND, £16.50 I love feathers and colours in my hair so this is perfect for letting that hippy out!

MOROCCAN DUFFEL BAG KHALID, £65 If you don’t need a big bag just carry a little duffel. These are so retro and cool. www.bohemiadesign.co.uk

GRID KANTOR WEDGES, £60 If you want to wear heels go for a wedge.

These komodo ones are are cute and chic. www.komodo.co.uk

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INDIAN EARRINGS, £CONTACT FOR PRICES Natural looking stones again, and these are very different from anything you can get on the highstreet. www.nadinekieft.com

FEDORA PANAMA, £75 Fedora’s are cool, there is no doubt about it and this one is girly with the bright pink strip. www.febronie.com

MATALAN TOP, FLORAL CAMI YELLOW, £10 Yellow is perhaps the summer colour so be bold and bright.

MATALAN, £12 Keep shoes simple if you’re going to be in a field or on a beach. There’s nothing worse than sinking heels!

LONG JOGI BAG, £25 Ethically made and cute. No matter where you’re going you’ll need a cute bag. www.aurague.com

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EDA DRESS, ÂŁ75 This cute mini dress is light and cool and its ethically friendly www.komodo.co.uk

REPUBLIC, £TBC A simple loose kaftan jacket is the perfect cover-up for the warm weather or the beach.

MATALAN TOP, FLORAL CAMI BLUE £10 Floral is always in for summer.

This is cheap and girly - pair with jeans or shorts.

ASOS, MESH SKIRT, £45 This bright mesh skirt is perfect for partying the night away, be bold and pair it with a sequined top or a bikini top if youve got washboard abs.

PAUL SMITH, 'BENITA' WEDGES, £180 Wedges are practical for the summer and these are so colourful and fun. www.parisclothing.co.uk

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When Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Fostering and Adoption teams say you really can change the course of a young person’s life – they mean it!

Rebecca, 30, tells us how she thrived with her adopted family.

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS ■ There are 49 children aged from 0 to

eight waiting to be adopted in Rhondda Cynon Taf. ■ Twenty of them are aged two and

under and nine of them have a brother or sister who should be adopted alongside them.

What adoptive parents say “Following years of trying to conceive, we decided to become adoptive parents and began work with our social worker, who has since become a strong contact in our lives.”

■ Each of them has been removed their

biological families, through no fault of their own, and many are affected by the issues that led to them being taken into care in the first place.

Rebecca, 30, tells us how she thrived with her adopted family.

Every person who is adopted has a different story about how they came to be removed from their birth parents.

There are just so many reasons why the family unit can break down. But it is never the fault of the babies and children who are removed from their birth parents. For me, my mother could not care for me and I was hospitalised due to malnutrition and went on to spend many of my first years in hospital due to ill health caused by neglect. My life was pretty grim.

I was placed in care aged six months and fostered by the family who went on to adopt me. They treated me as their own and gave me the care, support and confidence I needed.

They were always very open with me, they never kept secrets and I have always understood everything about my family situation. My adoptive parents told me I was special and they’d chosen me and that was how I always felt.

They had chosen to be my mum and dad, and also had three biological children of their own and been foster carers for many years before I arrived in their care. In fact, the incredible work they did was passed down a generation as their daughter, my adoptive sister, was unable to have children herself, so, eight years ago, adopted three siblings.

But each of them is also a child, with boundless energy and limitless imaginations. They have birthdays and dream of a cake topped with candles, the chance to twirl in their princess party dress or thunder down the road on their new bike.

They have energy - lots of it - and a penchant for Peppa Pig. They want to run and jump, sing and shout, cuddle up and read a story or tear around the football pitch until their legs can take no more.

They want a family and the chance for an upbringing that gives them the best start in life. Some people adopt because they choose to, others because they cannot have biological children, whatever their reason, the decision to adopt is never an easy one.

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is realistic and knows adoption is not for everyone. But it is also certain there are many people out there who, if they took the first step and found out more, would thrive as adoptive parents.

There are huge amounts of information and support available at every step of the way, from information evenings and chats with those who have already adopted before you make a decision, to ongoing support, training and family days. ❧ 42 ❧

“We will be honest and say the process was personal and took some time, which was daunting, but that was forgotten when we were told we had been approved and our daughter was placed with us.”

“Months of anticipation became years of joy and we cannot begin to explain how wonderful the last three years of our lives have been and how our days have flown by with laughter and excitement.”

“Of course it has not been easy and our daughter has presented challenges, but then, life is not easy and all children present challenges.

“Our advice would be to really consider adoption, don’t give up and take strength and advice from the professionals who help you every step of the way – the support we were given was second to none, enabling us to become confident.

“We have since adopted our little girl’s biological brother, bringing the siblings back together and making our family complete.”

If you are interested in being part of a child’s memories please contact the Adoption Team, or visit the website for further information.

0800 085 2635

www.rctcbc.gov.uk/adopt

Library photographs have been used to protect identities

“They treated me as their own and gave me the care, support and confidence I needed.�

Whether you’re an enthusiastic amateur or a timeserved gardening expert, there’s always plenty of things to do to get the best from the summer garden. Rob Hodge gives us his top Summer tips.

NATURE NURTURED Here’s award-winning gardener Rob Hodge’s list of ten things we could be doing in and around our garden this Summer.

Weeding Regular weeding of the borders pays dividends. With our summers of warm spells and lots of rain, the weeds will easily take over if not attended to on a regular basis. Attention little and often will get the best results.

Lawn management Continue cutting and edging lawns.

In a lot of people’s gardens the lawn is the main feature and the area where we do our socialising and playing so it’s important to keep it looking neat, tidy and free from weeds.

Feeding and watering Feed and water summer bedding, especially the ones in containers, they soon use up the nutrients in the compost so a feed every two to three weeks will keep them in tip top condition and looking their best.

Vegetables and salads In the vegetable garden continue a successive sewing of salad crops.

It makes more sense than having them come all at once and ensures an ongoing crop throughout the season.

Decoration Dry your herbs and flowers for decorative use around the home.

Remember to cut the stems as long as possible. They need to be cut on a warm day bunched together and hung upside down in a garden shed or glass house.

Cuttings Take softwood cuttings of plants such as lavender and rosemary. Taken now, they will be well established as potted specimens before the winter comes.

Roses Check your roses for pests and diseases.

Spray if necessary and don’t forget to keep deadheading to extend their flowering period.

National Garden Scheme Take time out to visit other gardens that are open to the public for inspiration. The National Garden Scheme’s Yellow Book and Yellow Leaflets are available at most garden centres and they show which local gardens are open to visit on the weekends through the summer.

Bug hunt Plan a beast hunt, children of all ages love to discover what bugs, mini-beasts and creepy-crawlies are lurking in their own garden Enjoy it!

I think this is perhaps the best advice of all. Don’t forget to enjoy your garden when you can. Play games, have a barbeque and make the most of your outside space now matter how big or small it is. Fresh air and just being outside is certainly beneficial for both body and soul.

Rob Hodge Horticulture 01633 744075 www.robhodgehorticulture.co.uk

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All you would expect from a

sofa and more...

A Duresta sofa from Leekes is not just any sofa.

Lovingly handcrafted with an unrivalled understanding of quality upholstery, a Duresta sofa is a combination of traditional joinery, internationally sourced and expertly sewn fabrics and over 70 years of furniture expertise.

The result is an individually crafted and sumptuously comfortable Duresta sofa which will exceed your expectations in every way…

To view our Duresta range visit your nearest Leekes store at: Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT, CF72 8XU Telephone 0845 050 8240 | Online at leekes.co.uk

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To those unfamiliar with the Valleys, they can still evoke images of scarred hillsides dominated by spoil heaps and waste tips. Nowadays, as residents know, the hills are largely green again, rivers full of fish run clean, such that visitors are often taken aback by the beautiful countryside that envelopes the towns and villages of The Valleys. And places to see and explore nature are close at hand…

TAKE A WALK ON

THE WILD SIDE The Valleys will have a new National Nature Reserve this summer. Aberbargoed Grasslands in the Rhymney Valley is already designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) of national and European importance.

Its Purple Moor grass and rush pasture habitat is increasingly rare with more than 90% of it lost across Britain over the last 100 years. It supports a huge variety of wildlife including a colony of rare Marsh Fritillary butterflies.

Subject to the approval of the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW), the reserve is likely to be launched during Wales Biodiversity Week, commencing on June 11, with a series of community events, including a butterfly parade involving local schools.

A new education centre is being created at the site and specially developed apps for iPhones and Android phones will help visitors understand and enjoy the reserve and the wildlife.

Before the official launch, Caerphilly CBC countryside rangers are hosting a party of nearly 50 ‘Ecogardes’ from northern France and volunteer rangers from Belgium at the grasslands to undertake activities as part of the trans-European WECAN project in which the Valleys Regional Park initiative is a partner.

Marsh Fritillary Butterfly Primarily a wetland species as its name suggests, these beautiful butterflies have been declining in numbers in recent years as their natural habitats have become increasingly scarce. However, in areas of the valleys, they are more than holding their own. Adults emerge in the middle of May, reaching a peak in early June.

Image courtesy of © Cumbria Butterfly Conservation

Essential Nature

Just a few miles to the north of the grasslands and the town of Bargoed, Parc Cwm Darran, one of the Valleys’ wonderful Country Parks, is a great example of how former industrial sites have been reclaimed for nature and recreational purposes.

The location of the former Ogilvie Colliery is now a tranquil haven where two lakes have been created, surrounded by thousands of trees.

The park’s wonderful walking and cycling trails allow visitors to reconnect with nature and wildlife, especially at Cwmllywdrew Meadows, a Local Nature Reserve within the park, where Barn Owls hunt and Pied Flycatchers nest.

A nuthatch at Silent Valley Nature Reserve Image courtesy of © Lee Parsons

Photograph courtesy of © Gareth Owen, CCW

Tucked out of sight just off the ‘Heads of the Valleys’ Road to the east of Brynmawr is the Cwm Clydach National Nature Reserve, which recently featured as one of the ‘Top 50 Valleys Essentials’ by ‘Rough Guide to Wales’ author Mike Parker.

The reserve is managed by CCW as part of the wider Cwm Clydach Woodlands SAC. Beech trees cling to the side of the deep limestone gorge cut by the Afon Clydach, which resonates in the summer to a symphony of songs from birds including the Nuthatch, Green and Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers.

A new cycleway, which links to the Sustrans’ Valleys Cycle Network, passes through the reserve along the route of the old railway line.

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To discover more about nature reserves, and other wild places and attractions in The Valleys, visit: www.thevalleys.co.uk

The Taf Fechan Image: © Peter M Jeffs PMJay@pmjay.com

Just off the Ebbw Fawr valley is Cwm Merddog, home to the Silent Valley reserve. Within the woodlands at Silent Valley, the remnants of the old dramline that transported coal from the drift mines on the hillsides can still be seen.

Gwent Wildlife Trust and its partners have done a sterling job in managing the reserve for both conservation purposes and the enjoyment of visitors.

The Trust runs the newly-built Environment Resource Centre nearby on the site of the former steel works at Ebbw Vale and is certainly well worth a visit as well.

In addition to its magnificent variety of ferns, wild orchids and helleborines, Silent Valley claims the highest-altitude beech woodlands in mainland Britain.

The adventurous may wish to check if they are higher than those perched on the punchbowl above Cwm Tyleri, just north of the local nature reserve at Cwmtillery Lakes, one of three such reserves along with Beaufort Woodlands and Parc Nant-y-Waun on the new Ebbw Fach Trail, a 16 km trail that links fourteen community-run greenspaces.

The endlessly-fascinating contrast and relationship between man’s activities and nature often enhances the appeal of The Valleys’ wildlife sites. One of the many regeneration projects and

initiatives that are helping to transform the valleys is that at Cyfarthfa Park and Castle restoring the old Tramway and the historic Leat, which supplied water to the famous Cyfarthfa ironworks.

Here a new walkway will form part of a heritage trail between Cyfarthfa and the Taf Fechan Nature Reserve. The reserve is part of the Cwm Taf Fechan Woodland SSSI where the fast-flowing Taf Fechan river cuts through close to limestone cliffs. The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales has leased the site since 1975 from Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council, with whom they jointly run and manage it, and recently they have appointed its first ever full-time warden to look after it.

Just north of Swansea, close to the village of Craig Cefn Parc, the RSPB runs a nature reserve, also named Cwm Clydach. This has two special nature trails: a short one, which is suitable for pushchairs, and a longer one with steep, rocky sections. You might see spotted flycatchers and redstarts. Dippers and Grey Wagtails frequent the waters of the Clydach River whilst majestic Red Kites, with their iconic forked tails, can often be seen gliding overhead in their distinctive graceful fashion.

If you fancy a walk on the wild side near you this summer, you know where to go. ❧ 47 ❧

The magnificent crags of Pen Pych at the top of the Rhondda Fawr, one of only a few flat-topped spur mountains in Europe, where buzzards and peregrines often soar on the thermals.

Just to the south of Pen Pych is the fantastic SSSI woodland at Cwm Saerbren.

Notable for its wonderful geological features, the site is accessible from Treherbert railway station.

The WECAN project is a European Interreg IVB Project with partners from Valleys Regional Park, Regionaal Landschap Kempen en Maasland in Belgium, Parcs Naturels Regionaux Scarpe Escaut and L’Avesnois in France.

More details at: www.thevalleys.org.uk

James Dean Bradfield, Manic Street Preachers Photo courtesy of Steven Burnett

THE WALES 100 The music scene in Wales is probably as vibrant now as it has ever been with exciting new acts appearing on an almost daily basis. The Wales 100 has been compiled by Francis Brown of www.newsoundwales.com. Here’s a selection of twenty of the finest singers and bands from, or currently living, in Wales.

We hope that promoters, journalists, broadcasters and those that love original and exciting music will find The Wales 100 a useful resource. We will be updating the list on an annual basis so let us know if you think there’s a singer or band that we should consider including next year.

New Bands T HE JOY FORM IDABLE Joy Formidable were formed in North Wales in 2007 and quickly established themselves as one of the best new rock bands to emerge from Wales in recent years. They signed a major deal with Atlantic Records and released their debut album ‘The Big Roar’ in 2011. They have toured stateside and with their 2nd album on its way they are on the verge of joining Feeder and the Stereophonics in the premiere league of UK rock acts. www.thejoyformidable.com/ lewis@loudhailerpress.com http://youtu.be/PbYghzgt9IU

B RI GHT LIG H T BR IG H T LIGHT Bright Light Bright Light is the moniker adopted by former pop folkie Rod Thomas.

Since then he has had something of a ‘road to Damascus’ transformation moving into full blown electro pop. The band’s debut single “Love Part ll” caused quite a stir and after some hefty delays their debut album ‘Make Me Believe in Hope’ was released in 2012. paulrobertbonham@gmail.com www.brightlightx2.com http://youtu.be/Qs1VRlTbEO4

T HE K E YS In the 90s Welsh band Murry The Hump recorded three sessions for John Peel and had high profile fans such as Alex James from Blur.

The band never achieved the predicted success and went their separate ways. Ten years after the split several members re-grouped as The Keys. The band has released two albums 'Fire Inside' and ‘Bitten by Wolves’ and are signed to zeitgeist Cardiff label ‘See Monkey Do Monkey’. thekeys.squarespace.com/ aimee@semonkeydomonkey.com http://youtu.be/LQjv-y9Iqq0

HE N RY’ S F U N E R A L S H OE Made up of two brothers playing guitar and drum, Henry’s Funeral Shoe are influenced by blues and 60s bands their debut album ‘Donkey Jacket’ has pushed them into the first division of Welsh bands. www.henrysfuneralshoe.com/ henryfuneralshoe@hotmail.co.uk http://youtu.be/wFq_O3zAu5Q

T HE BOY ROYA L S You might know this Newport band under their previous name of ‘Town’. Influenced by bands such as The Jam, The Who and Britpop they released a single ‘Teenage Sky’ under their previous name that received airplay from DJ’s such as Steve Lamacq and Huw Stevens. theboyroyals.com theboyroyals@gmail.com http://youtu.be/TK9s10M-s1Q

Z E RVA S & P E P P E R Zervas & Pepper are from Cardiff and have a strong reputation as a live act and a strong catalogue of songs featuring rich harmonies and strong melodies. They have appeared alongside numerous artists including the legendary as Judy Collins. The band released their debut album ‘Somewhere in the City’ in 2011 and have received strong support from Radio Wales and BBC6 Music.

Folk & Acoustic

www.zervaspepper.co.uk/ Zervas_pepper@hotmail.co.uk http://youtu.be/RoyD7PWETWw

PAPE R AE ROP L A N E S The core of Paper Aeroplanes, formerly known as Halflight, are Sarah Howells and Richard Llewellyn. The band have received national airplay from DJs such as Bob Harris and released their debut album ‘The Day We Ran Into the Sea’ in 2010. They toured extensively throughout the UK & Europe and this has helped the band develop a loyal following. www.paperaeroplanesmusic.com/ info@paperaeroplanesmusic.com http://youtu.be/sOyr-hbszQw

AL LE W IS Al Lewis first came to prominence when he took part in the ‘Song for Wales’ competition in 2007 where his song ‘Llosgi’ came 2nd.

Since then he has released several critically acclaimed albums and in 2011 his album ‘In the Wake’ was short listed for the inaugural Welsh Music Prize. He is a popular live performer and has a close association with fellow Welsh band Paper Aeroplanes.

Bright Light Bright Light Photo courtesy of Thomas Cooksey

Jodie Marie

www.allewismusic.com/ info@allewismusic.com http://youtu.be/znH45Jpgffo

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F F R E D J ON E S Ffred Jones is a rising Welsh singer-songwriter who graduated from Paul McCartney’s Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts in 2006 where his fellow students included the likes of Eugene McGuinness. In 2011 he released his 2nd album ‘The Welsh Whiskey Society’ which demonstrated a maturing song writing style and extremely sophisticated guitar playing. In 2011 won a ‘battle of the bands’ competition to appear at the Big Weekend in Cardiff. ffredjones.co.uk/ f.jones@hotmail.co.uk http://youtu.be/vM7dO3NJqBM

J OD I E M A R I E Jodie Marie comes from Narbeth in West Wales and secured a deal with Decca Records when her father gave a record company executive a copy of a covers CD recorded by his daughter.

Her debut album ‘Mountain Echo’ was released in 2012 and included songs co-written with Suede’s Bernard Butler and Ed Harcourt. jodiemarie.co.uk/ toby@transgressiverecords.co.uk http://youtu.be/Vi0okXxp01U

John Cale Photo courtesy of Ojo Espejo

Elder Statesmen J O HN CALE Former member of the Velvet Underground Cale became one of the few people from Wales to truly make it into the rock premiere league of the 1970s. Signed to Island Records after the break up of the Velvets he produced such classic albums as “Paris 1919” and “Fear”. Now aged 70 John Cale OBE is the elder statesman of Welsh rock yet still finds time to produce cutting edge music such as his “Extra Playful” EP released in 2011 and will release an album on Domino Records in 2012. john-cale.com http://youtu.be/yRU1oAfGEU0

M A NI C S TREET PR EACH E RS One of Wales’ most successful and long lasting bands the Manic Street Preachers have been together for over 25 years. Their uncompromising approach to their work has won them critical acclaim and a fiercely loyal audience. The band have released 10 studio albums with the most recent being “Postcards from a Young Man” in 2010. They have also had a surprising amount of success in the singles charts with over 30 top 40 singles in the UK. www.manicstreetpreachers.com http://youtu.be/gavcjNniIvk

S UP ER FUR RY ANIM AL S Fast approaching their 20th anniversary, the Super Furry Animals were formed in Cardiff in 1993 and feature Gruff Rhys, Huw Bunford, Guto Pryce, Cian Ciaran & Dafydd Ieuan. They have released 9 studio albums with their most successful being “Rings Around the World” in 2001 featuring their best known track “Juxtapozed with U”. The band has been on sabbatical since their 2009 album “Dark Days/Light Years”. superfurry.com/ http://youtu.be/BFU7FGXfBEM

S T EREO PHONICS Originally from Cwmamon The Stereophonics were formed in 1992. They secured a deal with Richard Branson’s V2 label and released their debut album ‘Word Gets Around’ in 1997. This quickly helped to establish them as one of the UK’s premiere rock bands. Original drummer Stuart Cable left in 2003 and died tragically in 2010. The band has released 7 studio albums with the most recent being ‘Keep Calm & Carry On’ in 2007. In 2012 the band were selected to represent Wales at a special Olympic opening ceremony concert in London’s Hyde Park.

“John Cale OBE is the elder statesman of Welsh rock yet still finds time to produce cutting edge music such as his ‘Extra Playful’ EP released in 2011 and will release an album on Domino Records in 2012.”

Welsh Language 9 BAC H 9Bach have been making some of the most interesting and beautiful music from Wales in recent years. They released their debut album in 2009 and specialise in new arrangements of traditional Welsh folk songs. Most recently 9Bach have been in Australia working on a collaboration with the Black Arm Band. www.9bach.com/ bach@9bach.com http://youtu.be/GdwzDRK3P2I

www.facebook.com/ghbonello thegentlegood@gmail.com http://youtu.be/Tv2DPJNOo6Q

E U RO S C H I L D S Former Gorky’s Zygotic Mnyci front man has produced a myriad of solo albums and projects since the band split in 2006. In 2011 he teamed up with Norman Blake to form Jonny and in 2012 released “Cousins” a collaboration featuring Meilyr Jones from Race Horses.

C OW B OI S R H OS B OT W N N O G The band was formed by the three brothers Iwan, Aled and Dafydd Hughes who are from Rhos Botwnnog in north Wales, hence the name. Their Welsh indie/Americana sound has evolved and their line up has gradually been extended. They released their 2nd album “Dyddiau Du, Dyddiau Gwyn” in 2010.

www.euroschilds.com euros@euroschilds.com http://youtu.be/9Pqk0PNYVCw

www.crhb.net band@crhb.net http://youtu.be/vTaSdNXJ6vU

Y R OD S Yr Ods are a five piece indie pop band originally from north Wales now resident in Cardiff. They have released a number of EPs and singles and released their debut album “Toi a Throsi” on Sain Records in 2011. They mostly sing in Welsh but have recently added English songs to their repertoire. Radio 1 DJ Huw Stevens has described them as “a brilliant indie pop band from north Wales with sharpness, melodies and a natural flow that can make you blush”.

www.stereophonics.com/ info@nettwerk.com http://youtu.be/IwOMnIuAGOY

M A R T YN JOS EPH Perhaps best known for his 1989 hit ‘Dolphins Make Me Cry’, Penarth born Martyn Joseph has survived his brief spell at a major label and continues to record and tour on a regular basis.

Most recently his 2010 album ‘Under Lemonade Skies’ was well received and he continues to have a high level of respect in the world of acoustic music. www.martynjoseph.net/ piperecords@imageacoustic.com http://youtu.be/mlkOMM4dW7o

T H E G E N T L E G OOD By day he’s Gareth Bonello, but by night he becomes the Gentle Good and sings wistful, melodic songs in both English & in Welsh. In 2011 The Gentle Good released the highly acclaimed “Tethered for the Storm” which featured accompaniment from a string quartet.

www.myspace.com/yrods gutobrychan@me.com

Euros Childs Photo courtesy of Steven Burnett

❧ 50 ❧

Check out The Wales 100 on the magazine website and if you have any suggestions for next year’s list, we would love to hear them.

Many thanks to Francis Brown of New Sound Wales for compiling the list. www.newsoundwales.com

Kelly Jones, Stereophonics Photo courtesy of Steven Burnett

WEST STYLE The best of the West!

LLANELL I

Art and coffee a perfect combination Myrtle House Gallery and Cafe, run

by Ellen and Bill Chapman, was officially opened a few weeks ago, but already it is a hugely popular place to visit if you wish to have a quite catch up with friends, a bite to eat at lunch time or to browse (or purchase) some of the locally produced art and craft on show.

Rig Out

Situated in the centre of Llanelli and serving great coffee, Myrtle House Gallery is a breath of fresh air. The Cafe offers luxury hot drinks, freshly prepared cakes, paninis and homemade soups daily. The art on show is all produced by local artists, and its all for sale. If you fancy trying your hand at producing some of your own pottery then why not attend one of the new pottery classes they have to offer.

Myrtle House Gallery 22 Myrtle Terrace, Llanelli SA15 1LH 01554 750 276 ellen@myrtlehouse.org.uk www.mhgallery.co.uk T E N BY

There’s so much more at County Clothes Owners Julius Rhys-Davies and Tina Phillips definitely know what their customers want from ladieswear, Crocs, unusual gifts, toys, greetings cards, pictures, souvenirs, gadgets and much more.

It’s probably Tina’s love of fashion and her knowledge of what her customers are looking for that encouraged her to extend her range of ladieswear. The mature, fashion forward ladies can find the popular brand Adini here, perfect for both daywear and evening wear along with Tayberry, Alice Collins, 42 Knots, Aimee, Nomads. New to County Clothes are the brands Marble and Signature which are sure to be a hit.

Established 30 years ago, this ladies boutique offers its loyal customers some of the best international fashion labels and up-to-date trends from brands such as Bolero, Sandwich, Marie Mero, Bianca and Aapnage. Whether you’re after an everyday outfit or something for a special occasion, they stock it all They have a great selection of high end accessories: shoes, jewellery, belts, hand bags and scarves to complete any outfit. Plus with a hat hire service and alterations by their on-site dressmaker, they can finish off your special occasion outfit to perfection.

105 Rhosmaen St, Llandeilo SA19 6HA 01558 822853 caryl256@btinternet.com

Also available are gilets from Grenouille and reversible coats from Carol C, perfect for when the sun goes down. Most sizes can be catered for from 10 to 20/XXL. Those looking for the popular Crocs will have a field day as there’s a range of the latest styles here, along with Classic, Baya, Crocband, Mens Yukon Sport, Ladies Patricia sandals and flipflops. Accessorise your look with a good selection of jewellery, hats and bags.

County Clothes Established 1901 3 High St, Tenby SA70 7EU O1834 842898 countyclothes@gmail.com

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Awens Lingerie Summer’s here and we’re all aware of the need for the right underwear for the right outfit.

Clothes are lighter in colour and fabric and we need invisibility in our lingerie as well as lift and support.

Awens keep a wide selection from all the main brands and have trained fitters who will help you get the style and size that is perfect for you; to make you feel like a million dollars! Best selling brands include Fantasie, Freya, Lejaby, Chantelle and many more in AA-K cups. Specialist post surgery brands include Anita and Royce.

11 Hall Street Carmarthen SA31 1PH 01267 233868 awens-richards@btconnect.com

Giddy Aunt Vintage clothes and handmade wonders to order, Giddy Aunt started life as a small vintage clothes shop in Narberth.

Donna, AKA Auntie opened the shop eighteen months ago, so her passion with all things vintage would have an outlet! Aunty knew how hard it was to dress vintage every day, so Giddy Aunts ‘Dresses for Girls’ and ‘Shirts for Boys’ service began. Bringing you vintage feel clothing with a modern fit and fabrics at affordable prices, dresses from £75, shirts from £65. You chose the style, the size and the fabric, Auntie makes it and sends it to you. Easy!

01834 861335 info@giddyauntclothes.co.uk www.giddyauntclothes.co.uk

CA RMA R THE N

Fine Lines Aesthetics Clinic The Fine Lines Aesthetics Clinic aims to provide innovative Medical Aesthetic Treatments that will have you feeling rejuvenated, looking younger and full of confidence.

Run by Theresa and Sue, both of whom are experienced registered nurses as well as Medical Aesthetic Practitioners, who look forward to helping you achieve the results you desire whilst focusing on confidentiality, professionalism and discretion. Offering a range of services, such as: Muscle Relaxing Injections - to smooth out brows, Derma Fillers - to smooth

wrinkles and enhance facial features, Derma Rollers - to nourish and rejuvenate skin with vitamins and minerals directly into skin, Mesotherapy - to combat a whole range of skin issues and Hair Restoration Treatment, all in their clinic in the centre of Carmarthen.

Plus if your just after a little pick me up and pampering they also offer Garra Rufa fish pedicures from only £5 and the use of Zenith Sunbeds from only £2 for 3 minutes. And if you’re a new customer you can get a great 10% off your first treatment.

Fine Lines Aesthetics Clinic 16a Bridge Street, Carmarthen SA31 3JS 01267 243688 suzyh1965@yahoo.co.uk www.finelinesaestheticsclinic.co.uk

Sashel Specialising in ladies fashion jewellery and accessories, Sashel has something for all occasions.

Their range of handcrafted jewellery uses natural stones, shell and pearl and is available in a variety of colours and Sashel’s designer bridal jewellery, tiaras and hair accessories are made with pearls and Swarovski crystals. Their selection of complementary colourful Bessie bags of London, Henley watches, beautiful pashminas and fascinators will ensure that your outfit is accessorised to perfection to complement any occasion.

Bath Cottage, 2 Upper Frog St Tenby SA70 7JD 01834 844022 www.sasheljewellery.co.uk

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THINK GLOBAL SHOP LOCAL A great selection of some of our favourite shops, boutiques and galleries from across West Wales.

Pembrokeshire has its fair share of superstores but there’s nothing nicer than being served by a human being rather than automatons.

Independent shop owners put personality into the high street and there’s personality a plenty in the shops we’ve featured within these pages.

fashion fix at Polly’s in Aberystwyth and finally if you’re a mum-to-be or want a gift for a baby or toddler, then Upsy Daizy in Narberth has it covered.

Pembroke based candlemakers and stockist of a wide range of candles, accessories, scented and handcrafted goods, as well as an extensive range of mind, body and spirit products.

Pure Art is a high end gallery for the discerning collector. Exhibiting work by some of the top Welsh and UK artists, including Gwilym Prichard, Kyffin Williams, Mike Jones, Valerie Ganz, Jonathan Pitts and many more.

The gallery has been open for 3 years with a new show each month offering a variety of quality artists’ work.

Landscapes are obviously a favourite in Pembrokeshire but they also show figurative, expressionist and abstract work. Pure Art are proud to have art in stock to please most collectors.

If it’s art you’re looking for then head straight to Pure Art in Milford Haven, for flowers, then The Flower Girls in Saundersfoot can cater for any occasion, for gifts, look no further than Wanton Wax and Wicked Wicks in Pembrokshire, Fire and Ice and Narberth and Hidden Treasures in Milford Haven, for the perfect item for the home, then Peppercorn in Llandeilo have all you need and want, get your

Wanton Wax & Wicked Wicks

Pure Art

6 Vanguard House, Milford Haven Marina Milford Haven SA73 3AH O1646 694591 www.artpure.co.uk

Fire and Ice

The Flower Girls

Fire and Ice in Narberth opened their doors in 2010 initially as an ice cream parlour but they are also known for selling bottled and draught traditional ciders.

The Flower Girls have been creating beautiful bouquets and flower arrangements for many years and pride themselves on an excellent standard of service and customer care and the top quality of their floral arrangements and cut flowers.

Have a personalised candle crafted for that special occasion. Wanton Wax & Wicked Wicks can add a picture and/or text to a candle for any occasion - great for weddings, anniversaries and birthdays. They also have a huge selection of alternative health supplies, crystal and gemstone items and jewellery, Feng Shui items, Divination Tools, Tarot Cards and Zodiac gifts.

Stocking over 50 different varieties, they specialise in Welsh ciders from producers such as Hallets Cider, Springfield Cider,Ty Gywn cider and Gwynt y Ddraig. Launching in June 2012 Fire and Ice will be selling their own range of frozen yoghurts and sorbets with an indulgent range of alcoholic infused sorbets such as Strawberry prosecco and Raspberry Sambuca. Not forgetting a range of cider sorbets!

3 Castle Terrace, Pembroke SA71 4LA 01646 68 68 68 or 0774 777 4759

65 St James Street, Narberth 01834 861995

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The Flower Girls flowers are the perfect way of spreading joy and happiness to the ones we love. Their flowers are perfect for all special occasions, be it a wedding, new baby, get well wishes, anniversary or just because you fancy some beautiful fresh cut flowers to lighten up your rooms.

Pharmacy Court, The Strand Saundersfoot SA69 9ES 01834 811167

Silverwood, Alessi, Emma Bridgewater and Dualit, Peppercorn really is a must visit store. With a wedding list service, they can even help you out with that special day, from helping make the gift list, to wrapping and delivering all items.

Polly’s

Peppercorn

Polly’s was first opened 18 years ago in Aberystwyth by husband and wife team Polly and Adrian Leonard, and later joined by their oldest daughter Alice and has now evolved into three beautiful and individual boutiques.

Peppercorn is a long established family run business and will be celebrating its 25th birthday this September, so why not pop in to see what has kept this shop a firm favourite with its many customers for a quarter of a century. Situated in a beautiful quirky Grade II listed building in Llandeilo, it retains many of its original features which gives the whole shop great character and charm.

Each shop offers a different theme and product line and their aim is to please everyone in every season. Their huge fan base is testament to how well Polly’s is run, and how much time and dedication Polly and her team put into editing the ranges, and sourcing the very best items.

Loyal customers come from near and far to browse the stores, especially when their winter boot range arrives in September. Customers comment that the hard work of trailing through shops has been done for them and they like that they can find such a great range in one place.

Whether you’re looking for pans, crockery, knives, coffee machines, food processors, an apple corer, garlic twist or even onion goggles this shop has it all. Stocking some of the best in quality kitchen items and small appliances from brands such as Le Creuset, Scanpan, Wusthof,

After something special or shopping whilst on holiday? Peppercorn can arrange delivery of larger items directly to you so you don't have to worry. Browse at ease with friendly experienced staff to assist you if required. Peppercorn is the one-stopkitchen-shop for all your kitchen needs, big or small.

Peppercorn 5 King St, Llandeilo SA19 6BA 01558 822410 sales@peppercorn.net www.peppercorn.net www.facebook.com/peppercornllandeilo

With labels ranging from Sandwich and Eucalyptus to Fever, FCUK and NoaNoa (to name but a few). Plus bags from Nica, shoes from Naturalist and a great selection of jewellery and gifts for all Polly’s is proud of their ability to help customers choose a whole new outfit or help with a special gift.

Polly’s 4, 11 and 21 Chalybeate St Aberystwyth SY23 1HS 01970 636 636 07816 585 306 pollyaberystwyth@btinternet.com

Hidden Treasures

Upsy Daizy

Hidden Treasures is a book shop with a difference. This treasure trove not only offers new and preloved books that will help you lose yourself into a world of fiction for hours but also a great selection of traditional wooden toys, jewellery, sweets and a range of gifts.

If you’re after the perfect baby item or a great fancy dress costume, Upsy Daizy is the one-stop-shop for all things baby and party.

You can enjoy a great cup of coffee whilst you browse in a relaxed and friendly environment. Plus with a book finding service they can help you source that out of print, rare or new book at a price to suit you.

1 Neptune House Nelson Quay, Milford Marina Milford Haven SA73 3BH 07894 742 034 www.hiddentreasurespembs.co.uk

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Stocking some of the littlest and prettiest baby clothing, nursery accessories, plus clothing for toddlers, Trunki bags and Kidorable Children’s Rainwear, Upsy Daizy is the place to visit for all your children’s needs. Plus if you’re visiting, why not check out the party section, where you’ll find helium balloons from £1.99 - £19.99, Chair Covers to hire from £1.80 each, party supplies and fancy dress for all the family.

5 Market Square, Narberth 01834 869396 upsy-daizy@hotmail.com

It’s been around for thirty years but, rest assured, GW of St Clears hasn’t stood still. This fabulous showroom of home style showcases the very latest designs and is definitely on-trend.

LOVE YOUR HOME If you’re a customer of GW in St Clears, you’ll already know that it’s a store that really does have something for everyone: kitchens, bathrooms, fires and fireplaces, tiles and stylish soft furnishings.

The first thing that strikes you when you enter GW of St Clears is that everything on show has been considered. Each product is either welldesigned or is just plain gorgeous. As you wander through the themed areas, there always seems something new to catch the eye. You get the sense that this is a company that takes great care in what it presents to its customers.

I chatted to Rhys Williams, who is responsible for the day-to-day running of GW of St Clears and was immediately impressed by his genuine enthusiasm for what the company offers and his quiet confidence in their ability to deliver on their promises.

“We’ve been doing this a long time,” he says, “We operate on simple principles. Give the customer quality and the very best standard of service at all times. We have customers who’ll come in and buy a cushion for £20 and then we have customers spending thousands on a new kitchen or bathroom. We treat each and every customer exactly the same. Customers deserve the very best from us and we make sure that’s what they receive.”

“We are the area specialist for Villeroy and Boch, Imperial bathrooms and Victoria and Albert baths,” Adriana adds. “With our own in-house granite worktop manufacturing facility, we can create amazing worktops for our customers with sunken drainers, shaped edgings and forms. We also offer a large selection of tiles ranging from Original Style tiles, Marlborough and Porcelanosa tiles.”

Adriana Delle-Case heads up the design team at GW of St Clears. Adriana is responsible for design and client liaison. As a trained designer with a talent for product, space and design she is passionate about the design side of the business. “I love my role,” she enthuses, “It’s about understanding clients’ design requirements and providing them with illustrations to ensure we understand what they’re aiming for and to ensure that what they imagined is realized.”

Adriana also oversees the installation of her own projects to ensure the projects achieve and surpass expectations. “We always go the extra mile and aim to make anything possible. We’re here to help customers realise their dreams.”

Rhys is keen to add, “We design and build fine art bathrooms, kitchens and fireplaces with made to measure granite and Silestone worktops all created in St Clears by our skilled and talented team at our well equipped granite facility. I’m proud to say that working with stone has been part of the Williams family for over 100 years as they are the renowned monumental masons in the area.”

GW of St Clears carries a superb selection of brands such as, Villeroy and Boch bathrooms, Victoria and Albert, Imperial bathrooms, Gazco and Stovax Dovre fires and stoves, British and German manufactured kitchens, Neff appliances, Osborne and Little fabrics, Harlequin, Sanderson’s, Romo fabrics, Cole and Son wallpapers, plus many more. ❧ 56 ❧

Just from talking with Rhys and Adriana, it’s clear to me the company has a real passion for ensuring a job’s well done. I’m also aware that this is a company that is constantly moving with the times. They’ve recently revamped the showroom and are now offering a complete interior design service and made to measure soft furnishings and have appointed interior designer Aileen Pyle to help achieve a service second to none.“The showroom is a creative canvas that, visually, is constantly evolving and improving.

It’s this need to constantly improve that, I believe, sets us apart,” says Rhys. “The new showroom displays have been created to represent an aspect of all the interior elements in a home. This is new to the business but we are very excited. It even includes a walk-in shower! Customers clearly love it as we’ve received fabulous feedback. We’ve had orders already for the amazing porcelain wood grain floor tiles, streamline shower head and controls.”

I like GW of St Clears. It’s a place where I get the sense that the owners and the team really appreciate my business but, more importantly, they actually sell the things I like and want, which means they’re in tune with me and that’s the real test of any business.

GW of St Clears Bridge Works, Pentre Road St. Clears SA33 4AA 01994 230384 sales@gwofstclears.co.uk www.gwofstclears.co.uk Twitter @gwofstclears www.facebook.com/gwofstclears

IT’S A TEAM EFFO R T

GW’s of St Clears’ talented team John Mycroft is key bathroom surveyor and bathroom installations manager. John visits you at your home, measures and helps you every step of the way to achieve a bathroom you will enjoy for many years to come.

Meirion Morris, has been with the company since it started and is a key member in the fireplace sales department. Meirion is a Welsh speaker and a valuable asset to the team.

Andrea Thomas is responsible for accounts and administration, and will be one of the first voices you hear when you call.

Carole Lewis is responsible for the administration and the day-to-day coordination of the fireplace department. Carole looks after fitting and servicing schedules.

Aileen Pyle is the most recent valuable member of the team with over 30 years experience in the field of interior design and soft furnishings and we welcome her to the team.

Richard Law is a Plumber and HETAS registered wood burning stove surveyor and installer and an all round team player.

Blethin Lewis is a qualified Gas Safe and Oftec installer and works daily on site either servicing or installing new fireplaces.

Allan Compton is our most experienced plumber and our gas safe expert surveyor and installer. He has trained a legacy of fitters to carry on his good work.

Robert Leefe is a granite and stone fabricator. Robert is responsible for the manufacture of the in-house made-tomeasure granite worktops.

Jeff Davies is a granite worktop fabricator and on-site installer.

Brian Howells is a bathroom and tiling installer and has been with the company from the beginning.

Cecil Harper is key stores and delivery person and has also been with the company from the very beginning.

“Customers deserve the very best from us and we make sure that’s what they receive.” ❧ 57 ❧

From electrical, tiling, carpentry and decorating, GW’s has a formidable team of expert and trusted subcontractors that they can call on.

We speak with Janey Evers of Janey Evers Interiors on how she can turn a beautiful house into a ...

BEAUTIFUL HOME Many people think, that hiring an interior designer will be too expensive, or that they’d lose control. This is not true.

When you work with a designer you are more likely to meet your budget.

You are much less likely to make expensive mistakes and you’ll also have an expert working with you, someone who will make sure the end result is exactly what you were hoping for and who will save you time, headaches, and money.

What is your background Janey?

I have been working in interior design for the past twenty years having arrived there by way of an honours degree in fashion and a post graduate year at the Royal College of Art, followed by a career in shoe and fashion design, then as a costume designer for television and film. I re-trained in interior design at the University of Arts whilst working with a London interior designer friend on a project for Wentworth Estate followed by many projects in London, Switzerland and Malaysia. I became a regular contributor to the Independent on Sunday’s interior shopping page.

Having the expertise to mix fashion and interiors, I often found myself working with window designers John Field Ltd. for their Gucci and Christian Dior windows creating very interesting and challenging prototypes for them.

My fashion and styling background provide a great love and knowledge of textures, colours, decoration and historical reference which I uses to mix contemporary with classic creating comfort with style.

I relocated to Pembrokeshire in Wales to work on my own property to create a relaxed luxurious retreat of boutique bed and breakfast and a new home for my Interiors business.

What services can you provide?

I can create contemporary interiors both traditional and bespoke, working with the client’s taste and existing furniture to create a fresh look or starting from a blank canvas to create a sensational new environment. I’m equally happy to design just one room in your home or a large project such as a thirty bedroomed hotel.

What does the process involve?

There is an initial no-obligation visit to the clients’ premises, which is free of charge (within a 10 mile radius of Tenby, Pembrokeshire), to discuss the clients’ needs, size of project and to answer any questions they might have.

I then create sample mood boards and room layouts to include colour schemes, fabrics, walling and flooring, best window treatment and lighting.

Once agreed, I can source wallpapers, fabrics and trimmings. I can also source soft furnishings including all styles of curtains, blinds, valances, bedspreads, throws, cushions, headboards and upholstery, all beautifully made, with a large range of curtain poles and tracks, tiebacks and holdbacks.

How are you enjoying Tenby and your bed and breakfast enterprise?

I’m really enjoying living life at a slower pace. It’s such a difference from the frenetic life of living in London.

My bed and breakfast business is such a joy. I’ve enjoyed designing the rooms and have had great feedback. Bed and breakfasts in the area have had a reputation for discount honey pine furniture but it really doesn’t have to be that way.

Welcoming my guests and ensuring that they get the best out of what’s on offer in the area is very rewarding and waking up every day to look at the beautiful blue sea each morning has its own rewards!

I hear you offer sewing courses at the bed and breakfast as well.

Tell me more.

Yes, there’s a real resurgence in make do and mend, especially with the current economic climate, so making your own soft furnishings can come in very handy. It’s also a very relaxing and enjoyable hobby. I would encourage interested parties to visit my website to find out more.

I also offer a bespoke soft furnishings made to measure service including curtains, blinds, cushions and bed furnishings. I can visit, bringing fabric books, measure and provide an estimate per item for making and fitting. Clients may have their own fabric which they would like to use for which a making cost can be quoted.

Which suppliers do you use?

Leading names including Abbott and Boyd, Osborne and Little and James Brindley. I also work with a range of budget ranges.

If a client is selling a property, can you help there too?

Yes, I can help stage a property in order to maximise the selling price.

I can offer advice on staging a property or show houses for new building developments and full design packages to help fit out buy-to-let properties for maximum return. ❧ 59 ❧

Janey Evers 1 Gower View, Gumfreston Tenby SA70 8RD 07710 273211 info@janeyeversinteriors.co.uk www.janeyeversinteriors.co.uk

“The landing gear consisted of two ‘bicycle’ wheels with a tail skid at the back to help slow the aeroplane on landing.”

HIGH FLYER

2012 celebrates the 100th anniversary of the first flight from the UK to Ireland – when the small North Pembrokeshire village of Goodwick earned its place in aviation history. Derek Webb tells us more.

In 1912 ‘aeroplaning’ as it was known was in its infancy. Owning an aeroplane was something that only the rich could indulge in. But indulge in it they did. One of these early pioneers was Denys Corbett Wilson. An Anglo-Irishman, he was born in Surrey; his mother was from Kilkenny in Ireland, his father a wealthy barrister.

Not many years after the Wright brothers made the first flight and only a couple after Louis Bleriot first flew the English Channel, Corbett Wilson bought a Bleriot XI monoplane for the princely sum of £480 – excluding the engine. He kept his new machine at Hendon aerodrome in north London (now the RAF museum) and it was here that he met a fellow flier, Damer Leslie Allen who challenged Corbett Wilson to a race across the sea to Ireland. In terms of distance alone, the Irish Sea was much more of a challenge than the English Channel, especially as neither of them had flown any further than 30 miles at any time before.

Ambitiously (some would say foolhardily) they decided to fly by way of Chester and Holyhead to Dublin and set off on the afternoon of April 17th 1912. Allen followed the railway lines north, while Corbett Wilson found himself buffeted by winds which had sprung up. So bad were they that his compass became dislodged and and fell overboard. Without a compass, he looked for anywhere he could land and spotted a field below him, which turned out to be a farm a few miles from Hereford. And landed safely.

The next day he went off in search of a new compass, and petrol and oil for his plane. At the time aeroplane engines used, as a lubricant, castor oil, since it didn’t mix with petrol. Unhappily, the castor oil which Corbett Wilson bought was the wrong grade and, within a few miles of taking off and heading westwards, the engine began to fail.

Once more he was forced down but this time he was high above the Black Mountains. Miraculously, he succeeded in finding the only area of flat land for miles around, a field in Colva, in what was Radnorshire.

Wisely he waited for his mechanic, a Frenchman called Gaston Vial, to catch up with him and see that the Bleriot had the right fuel and lubricant before setting off again. It was early in the morning of April 21st 1912 that his wheels touched down in a field overlooking Harbour Village in Goodwick, Pembrokeshire. His confidence however must have been severely dented when he learned that his fellow pilot, Damer Allen, having made Chester as arranged, had set off for Holyhead where he was observed flying out to sea – but was never seen again.

In the pouring rain, the Bleriot touched down and kept going until eventually it ran into a bank damaging his landing gear and propeller. He was in a village called Crane, near Enniscorthy in County Wexford and in so doing earned the distinction of being the first person to have flown successfully between the UK and Ireland. Later he went on to give air displays throughout Ireland and Europe. He joined the fledgling Royal Flying Corps in 1914 as a pilot on observation planes and was tragically killed by enemy fire in May 1915 and is buried in France.

The morning of the 22nd April was beautiful and cloudless – and to the cheers of hundreds of Goodwick folk, Denys Corbett Wilson flew off over the sea at 5.47am. It is worth bearing in mind that the aeroplane he was flying was predominantly made of wood, with the flying surfaces covered with fabric and the rear of the fuselage left uncovered. The landing gear consisted of two ‘bicycle’ wheels with a tail skid at the back to help slow the aeroplane on landing. At the time, there were no brakes! Wingspan was about 29½ feet and length about 28 feet, and the power from the single rotary engine gave a maximum speed of about 65mph.

In my play ‘100 Minutes’ about Corbett Wilson, I set it in the cottage in Bethune, France, where Corbett Wilson was stationed in the First World War – with the Irish trip forming the centre of the play as flashbacks. Besides covering the flight itself, the play features characters who were with Corbett Wilson in World War One, including a famous actor of the period, Robert Loraine, who was also a pioneer aviator and in fact attempted the Irish Sea crossing himself a few years before Corbett Wilson. A faulty engine forced him down into the sea only a few hundred yards from the Irish coast, so he couldn’t claim the accolade.

At first things went very well indeed, but as he approached Ireland he ran into a heavy squall of rain and wind.

On top of which, his engine began to misfire and his compass was behaving erratically too, so he flew on blind for several miles until, through a break in the clouds, he spotted fields below and decided to land.

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The play was premiered at 4U in Fishguard on April 21, 100 years to the day when Corbett Wilson landed in Goodwick and then crossed the sea to Ireland for a performance on April 26 at Wexford Arts Centre.

Derek Webb lives in Pembrokeshire with his wife and son. He is an author, poet and playwright. www.derekwebb.co.uk

WIN! Dinner for two at The Meating Place This fabulous prize includes a bottle of Champagne at either Crystal or Mocka and VIP entry.

If you haven’t yet visited The Meating Place on St Mary Street in Cardiff, then you’re truly missing out on something quite special. The clue is in the name, and that’s probably one of the reasons why The Meating Place has become so well known for its theatrical trademark dish, the famous mouth-watering Hanging Meat Skewers.

They don’t just serve meat here though.

There’s also a good selection of fish and vegetarian dishes. Their desserts are to die for and their wine list is impressive.

There’s a lot to be said for a good atmosphere and The Meating Place has this in spades.

✃

Q

What is The Meating Place’s trademark dish?

Name Address

Postcode Phone Date of Birth Email It is a condition of entry that entrants will receive a communication from West Life and separately from The Meating Place. Entrants will be able to unsubscribe from the list if they wish to do so. If you wish to receive further communication from West Life or The Meating Place you need do nothing. Your statutory rights are not affected.

“This fabulous prize includes a bottle of Champagne at either Crystal or Mocka and VIP entry.”

To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the question in the box to the left and either post your entry to: The Meating Place Competition, West Life Magazine, Cardiff House, Cardiff Road CF63 2AW. Or email your answer and contact details to jennifer@westlifewales.co.uk.

Please type The Meating Place as the email title. Closing date 31/08/12. ❧ 62 ❧

WIN! WIN! A bunch of music related goodies!

A wedding with Grosvenor G Casino To celebrate its recently-awarded wedding licence, Grosvenor G Casino Cardiff is giving one lucky bride-to-be the chance to win their very own unique casino-style wedding, worth over £1,000.

We might even throw in a £25 iTunes voucher! For more information about The Wales 100, please see the feature on page 48. You can also visit our webiste at www.westlifewales.co.uk which features the complete list of all 100 artistes and musicians.

To be in with a chance of winning, you’ll need to answer the question in the box below and either post your entry to: The Wales 100 Competition West Life Magazine, Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, CF63 2AW. or email your answer and contact details to jennifer@westlifewales.co.uk please type The Wales 100 Competition in the email title.

Terms & Conditions Entries must be received before the 31st August 2012.

The prize is not transferable. Judges decision is final.

✃

Q

Who compiled The Wales 100?

Answer

Grosvenor G Casino Cardiff is the first casino in Wales to be granted a wedding licence. The recently refurbished 20,000 sq ft Welsh venue now offers you the opportunity to tie the knot in one of Cardiff’s leading casino and entertainment venues, with a range of wedding packages available, plus great value food and drinks to delight your wedding party.

Grosvenor G Casino Cardiff is ideal for a great night out. With free entry seven days a week, Grosvenor G Casino Cardiff offers a wide range of gaming facilities for beginners and experienced players. It also offers an extensive drinks menu in its contemporary lounge area with five large plasma screens for watching live TV, a stage providing a platform for exciting entertainment and great value food in the restaurant. It really is an amazing venue and a great night out!

To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the question in the box below and either post your entry to: Grosvenor G Casino Wedding Competition, West Life Magazine, Cardiff House, Cardiff Road CF63 2AW. Or email your answer and contact details to jennifer@westlifewales.co.uk.

Please type Grosvenor G Casino wedding as the email title.

Closing date 31/07/12.

For more information please contact Grosvenor G Casino Cardiff on 029 2046 8350 or visit the casino at Grosvenor G Casino Cardiff, Red Dragon Centre, Atlantic Wharf, Hemingway Road, Cardiff, CF10 4JY. Keep up to date with the latest G Casino Cardiff news. Follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/grosvenorcasinocardiff

✃

To celebrate the launch of The Wales 100 we’ve had a number of prizes donated by some of the acts who appear on the list including Martyn Joseph, Paper Aeroplanes, Christopher Rees, Bright Light Bright Light and Lowri Evans.

Celebrate your special day in style with a Vegas style wedding - a definite showstopper that will have your guests talking about your big day for many years to come. This amazing prize will include a lavish ceremony complete with a dressed room and registrar, a delicious buffet style wedding breakfast for 80 guests, a champagne toast to the bride and groom and a DJ to get you and your guests dancing until the early hours. All you need to worry about is your dress!

Q

How big, in sq ft, is the newly refurbished Grosvenor G Casino Cardiff?

10,000

20,000

50,000

Name Address

Postcode Phone Email If you do not wish to receive details of special offers from West Life please, tick here.

Name Address

If you do not wish to receive details of special offers from Grosvenor G, please tick here.

Terms and Conditions: ■ Entrants must be over 18 years of age ■ Entries close on July 31 2012 ■ The prize includes a champagne toast, dressed room and registrar, buffet for 80 guests and a DJ ■ The prize does not include wedding attire, cars, complimentary drinks at the wedding reception, flowers, wedding cake or anything other than the items specified in the point above.

■ The prize must be taken by the following date: 30th November 2013.

Postcode Phone Email If you do not wish to receive details of special offers from Good Life Publishing please, tick here.

If you do not wish to receive details of special offers from other companies, please tick here.

❧ 63 ❧

INBUSINESS Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Cardigan Bay CA RD IG AN

Cardigan makes jeans once again Cardigan is a small town of 4,000 good people. 400 of them used to make jeans. They made 35,000 pairs a week - for three decades.

Indeed, they were so skilled at making jeans, it was the very last jeans factory in Britain to close.

In Hollywood, it’s hard to find a waiter who is not going to be an actor. In Cardigan, it’s equally as hard to find someone who hasn’t made jeans.

Suddenly, we’re not so comfortable with Britain not making things any more. There’s a collective unease that factories are lying empty and that skills are being lost. Combined with this, during a recession, we tend to gravitate towards quality. Our love affair with cheap and throwaway is not over, but it is showing signs of being on the wane.

A new mantra seems to have been adopted: buy less, but better. Quality is enjoying a revival, and that’s good news for Britain. So yup, our town is going to make jeans again. It won’t be easy, I know in some ways we have chosen a more difficult path to tread, and I know I have to make the numbers add up too. Here goes… David, Hiut Denim Hiut Denim Co. 01239 612469 www.hiutdenim.co.uk

Welsh Homes 4 U Welsh Homes 4 U is a newly established estate agents, specialising in houses for sale and rent in the Carmarthenshire area.

Whether you are looking to sell your home or buy a new one, they can help.

Whether your a landlord or a renter looking for somewhere to live, they can help.With houses available in all price ranges they will be able to find something to suit all budgets. If your after a larger family house or looking for your first home, Clair and her team will be able to guide you through this stressful yet exciting time with ease.

83 Rhosmaen Street, Llandeilo SA19 6EN 07568 071661 info@welshhomes4you.com www.welshhomes4you.com

O NLINE

Visit us online Like us on Facebook To complement West Life magazine, we have a beautiful website. We’ll be updating and developing this over the next year and it will carry its own exclusive content. You can also like us on Facebook too and a Twitter feed will be coming soon. www.westlifewales.co.uk www.facebook.com/WestLifeMag

If you’re a business and you’d like to promote yourself in West Life magazine please telephone 08451 808 707. ❧ 64 ❧

WES T WAL E S

TEN BY

Gauci Candles heads way out West

Crab Cottage - an ideal first property by the sea

South Wales’ very own organic candle maker has created a new candle ranges aimed specifically at the West Wales market.

The new ranges are based on themes from the South Wales Valleys, West Wales and Cardiff. With names such as Llanelli Lemons, Fishguard and Chips, Narberth Nectarine and Lime of Llandeilo, owner and candle maker Mr G hopes the company’s new creations will be embraced by organic candle lovers across Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire. “We use only organic soy wax in our hand-made candles and we ensure every stage of the process completely eco-friendly.”

Gauci Candles is looking for retail outlets across West Wales so if you’re a gift shop owner or boutique and would like to stock them, please get in touch with Mr G. Gauci Organic Candles www.gaucicandles.co.uk

This two bedroomed cosy terrace cottage is conveniently situated in the heart of Tenby, being within a short walk of the beach, shops and amenities.

The recently converted accommodation comprises entrance hall, lounge, kitchen, bathroom and two bedrooms. To the rear is a small courtyard garden with storage shed, outside WC and decked seating area.

There is the added advantage of residents permit parking.

WES T WAL E S

Pallet Truck Solutions gives business a lift New Welsh company, Pallet Truck Solutions, is aiming to make a big impression in the manual handling market across Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire.

Pallet Truck Solutions will be expanding their range of products over the next twelve months and also offer a pallet truck repair service in the CF postcode area.

Its new website features hundreds of products; from pallet trucks to Lift Tables and Tow Tractors to storage solutions. “We’ve been in the engineering industry for many years and understand what kind of equipment businesses need to ensure the safe movement and handling of heavy and awkward items,” said Director, Rhys Evans.

Pallet Truck Solutions Ltd The Workshops , JT Evans Transport No 2 Dock, Barry CF63 3RA 029 2009 0390 www.pallettrucksolutions.com Find pallettrucksolutions on Facebook

“Over recent years, there have been a lot of cheap and, quite frankly, badly engineered products flooding into the UK. These inferior products are poorly engineered and cheaply manufactured and, at best, fail after a few months but, more worryingly, can fail around workers when they are carrying significant weight,” added Rhys. “At Pallet Truck Solutions we choose our products carefully and offer our customers a one year replacement guarantee.” ❧ 65 ❧

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Terrace Cottage Two Bedrooms Ideal Holiday Home Rear Decked Garden Close To North Beach Residents Permit Parking

Crab Cottage is on offer for £130,000.

To view this property or request more details, please contact 07941 556027 or email hamermarcus@hotmail.com

THE LAST WORD Yanni Hrysicos is manager and proud owner of of the very popular Caffè Vista in Tenby. Yes, it has an unbeatable view, but there’s so much more to this café that makes it the success it is.

West Life talks to Yanni about what keeps bringing his customers back for more.

What is your style of cooking?

Mediterranean, with strong Greek influences. I learnt everything I know from my mother who emigrated to Australia from Greece. She makes authentic peasant food which I grew up with and have brought to Caffè Vista.Quite a few of our customers call us a restaurant, because they think the food is of restaurant quality, which is nice, but we are proud to be a café serving great, authentic food.

What’s on the menu?

We serve the same menu during the day as we do in the evening. Typically we have ‘Fasolatha’ - a traditional Greek vegetarian stew with butter beans, beef stew, three types of country pies (two meat and one veg), Greek salad, pitta bread with humous or filled ciabattas all of which can be enjoyed inside or at our tables overlooking the picturesque harbour. We also have a range of tempting cakes and pastries, some of which we bake on the premises.

We have a small, but quality, selection of wines and the usual range of beers and spirits. Our customers can come in for a coffee, glass of wine, a light lunch or something more substantial whatever they want any time of day or evening. We’re really quite relaxed. I believe serving good coffee is essential!

Our staff have been trained to make excellent Italian style espresso coffees and we pride ourselves on using the finest beans and roasts.

The view is just stunning...

Yes, we’re blessed with the view and our location in the heart of Tenby.

Caffè Vista has been written about as having, “probably the best coastal view from a cafe in the UK.”

I also organise monthly music performances in Caffè Vista and other venues in town with National and International performers. We’ve created quite a following and most events are sold out long before the date.

What do you offer in the evening?

When the sun goes down, that’s when the mood changes. The lighting is more subdued with candles on the tables.

There’s a different feel to the place.

Customers can enjoy a glass of wine, with or without food. We also take bookings for private parties and can alter our menu to order.

Tell us about your staff Good staff help to make a good place great. I’m proud to have really good staff. They each have their own strong personalities. They enjoy their work and that shows. Sometimes we have to cool it because we’re enjoying ourselves so much! Customers come in and ask for certain staff members, which is great.

Music plays an important part at Caffè Vista?

Each Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evening we have live acoustic music.

Again with a laid back feel. It’s mellow, mainly jazz, blues and folk.

What would you say you’re good at?

I think we are good at providing simple quality and authenticity with a warm and ‘homey’ spirit. Whether it be coffee, food and drink or music, it will be as it says - the ‘real thing’!

Caffè Vista 3 Crackwell Street, Tenby SA70 7HA 01834 849 636

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Entries will be accepted until the closing date of midnight on 31 August 2012.

Rooms are offered subject to availability and must be used before 23 Dec 2012. (excluding school and public holidays).

Entries will be accepted until the closing date of midnight on 31 August 2012.

Terms and Conditions You must be at least 18 years old to take part in the competition. Only one entry per email address per competition will be accepted. The closing date for the competitions is Terms and Conditions midnight on the date shown in the competition details. The winner(s) will be selected by The Grove and notified by email shortly after the closing date. At this point, each winner Youmay must at leastto18give years old toaddress take part in the competition.

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The winner(s) (eg Facebook). All entrants will be added to the Grove mailing list unless the Grove is instructed not to do that at the time of entry. The 20% discount offered to all entrants willcannot receivebe the prize(s) indicatedwith in the details. cashtoalternative willroom be offered as a prize. The winner’s name may be displayed on the Grove website and social media used in conjunction anycompetition other offer and onlyNo applies the standard rack rates. outlets (eg Facebook). All entrants will be added to the Grove mailing list unless the Grove is instructed not to do that at the time of entry. The 20% discount offered to all entrants cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and only applies to the standard room rack rates.

National Botanic Garden of Wales

Summer Fun Sunday 8 July FFESTIVA! - WORLD MUSIC DAY IN THE GARDEN Saturday 14 July INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DANCE Saturday 4 - Sunday 5 August SUMMER CRAFT FAIR IN THE GREAT GLASSHOUSE – ‘FOUR SEASONS CRAFT FAIRS IN THE GARDEN’ Sunday 5 August SOLAR DAY Saturday 11 - Sunday 12 August BLACK MOUNTAINS FALCONRY Saturday 18 - Sunday 19 August TREE FESTIVAL Saturday 25 - Monday 27 August AUGUST BANK HOLIDAY FAMILY FUN

For more info and loads more events,

www.gardenofwales.org.uk