West Life Winter 2012/13 by Good Life Publishing

WEST LIFE WINTER 2012/13 PRICELESS

P R O U D

WE S T WA L E S

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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 A G A Z I N E

COOL

HOT HOTELS, HOT FASHION, HOT INTERIORS AND A HOT CAR NOW THAT’S SURE TO WARM UP WINTER

RESTAURANT REVIEWS, WHAT’S ON, BUSINESS, SHOPPING

THERE’S

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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. 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. 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. 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.

WELCOME Welcome to the latest edition of West Life magazine. Winter is a fabulous season in our neck of the woods with lots to do - from bracing walks in the countryside, and around our stunning coastline, to shopping and mooching around our wonderful towns and villages. I’m proud to be at the helm of, what I believe is, West Wales’ premier lifestyle magazine. I’ve grown up in West Wales and really want to share the best our region has to offer with our readers here in Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, and beyond. We had some lovely letters of encouragement after our pilot issue and many of you seemed to like our easy-on-the-eye style. To make this magazine the success I know it can become, I need your help. I’d like to hear about your favourite walks, your favourite places - basically what you love most about this fabulous part of Wales. If you have a favourite pub or restaurant, please let me know about them. If you’ve received exceptional service from a business, I’d love to hear about it. All too often media bombards us with negative stories - we want the positive ones.

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.

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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Here at West Life magazine we’re a small team and we’re passionate about what we do. We want to hear from you about the successes - the talented, the clever, the stylish, the life-changing - so, get in touch and we’ll share the story with all of our readers. We love history, we love stories, we love showing off our region. We want to celebrate the best of West Wales and we’d love it if you’d help us. Sophie Davies Editor 07875 130250 sophie@westlifewales.co.uk

CONTENTS Winter’s here and, in this issue, we bring you a wealth of fabulous features to enjoy.

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16 WEST LIFE IS WRITTEN, DESIGNED AND PRODUCED I N W E S T WA L E S A N D IS PROUD TO BE INDEPENDENT

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❧ COVER IMAGE YNYSHIR HALL , EGLWYSFACH

❧ SEE PAGE 10 FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT THIS GORGEOUS HOTEL

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IN THIS ISSUE - NEWS FROM ACROSS THE REGION - THE BEAUTIFUL YNYSHIR HALL BRYL ’ S BOUTIQUE - A MUCH NEEDED INJECTION OF STYLE FROM ANN BRYL CAREW AIRFIELD - TAKE OFF TO ONE OF PEMBROKESHIRE ’ S HIDDEN GEMS STRADEY PARK HOTEL - TREAT YOURSELF TO FOUR STARS IN LLANELLI TURNING JAPANESE - DAVIES MOTOR COMPANY TRIED AND TESTED - JANEY EVERS INTERIORS WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH - ARE YOU MADE OF THE RIGHT STUFF ? A SPECIAL LIFE - BEECHWOOD COLLEGE IS AN INSPIRATION TRIED AND TESTED - GW OF ST CLEARS IN SEARCH OF EXCELLENCE - LLANDOVERY COLLEGE COMPETITION - WIN A FABULOUS PHOTOSHOOT WITH FINUCANE PHOTOGRAPHY SOCIAL LIFE - WHO ’ S MOVING AND WHO ’ S SHAKING IN WEST WALES WWMB - RECOGNISING THE TALENTS OF WOMEN IN BUSINESS THE LAST WORD - ELLEN CHAPMAN OF MYRTLE HOUSE GALLERY IN LLANELLI COMPETITION - WIN A LUXURY TWO NIGHT STAY FOR TWO WORTH £800 AROUND THE WEST A KIND OF MAGIC

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

FAMILIES , OUR FRIENDS

( INCLUDING

ALL THE NEW ONES WE HAVE MADE ) AND OUR ADVERTISERS

WITHOUT THEM WEST LIFE

WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE . WE HOPE YOU LIKE WHAT WE ’ VE PRODUCED AND WE ’ LL TRY TO MAKE EACH ISSUE EVEN BETTER THAN THE LAST AND IF YOU HAVE A STORY THAT YOU ’ D LIKE TO SHARE , PLEASE GET IN TOUCH . 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 .

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

N ARBER TH

Bubble makes us pop to Narberth This gorgeous shop situated on Narberth’s stylish High Street has everything you need when it comes to irresistible natural organic skin and body care accessories. Bubble stock their very own Bubble Cosmetics, as well as Green People products and Busy Bee soy wax candles to name just a few. If you’re looking for the perfect gift or want to treat yourself this winter, then glam up your winter skin with the gorgeous Berry Shimmer Body Butter, or try the new Chocolate Delight Shower Butter that smells just like chocolate mousse. Our favourite is the ultimate beauty tool - Argan Oil, rich in Vitamin E perfect for flawless skin. Everything you and your bath could wish for this winter!

High Street, Narberth Pembrokeshire SA67 7AS Contact Erika on 01834 860688 Open Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm

SAUND E R S FO O T

The family run business have made massive strides when it comes to the set up of Hopshill Firewood, starting out with simply a cow shed and an axe, to now having purpose built sheds and the latest machinery to cope with the high out put demands.

Keep warm this winter with Hopshill Firewood Hopshill claim to be the number one supplier of seasoned hardwoods, softwoods, kindling and heat logs in Pembrokeshire. Located in the village of Saundersfoot, Hopshill Firewood have been supplying seasoned firewood to area residents since 2006. As an established business, farmers James and Andrew Merriman decided to diversify into the firewood sector due to changes in farming policy.

“Everything you and your bath could wish for.”

The softwoods are bought in from local forestry, being well-seasoned and very dry, which is great for the multi fuel burners and kindling. Hardwood timber is sourced from their own woodlands and bought in from nearby farms and forestry, where trees have fallen, standing dead or a hazard to power lines and machinery.

Hopshill Firewood take pride in their personalised service, ensuring their customers receive excellent seasoned firewood for whatever application. Hopshill Lane, Saundersfoot SA69 9ED Contact Andrew on 07974 020 550 or 01834 812 493 www.hopshillfirewood.co.uk jamesmerriman7@hotmail.com Twitter @HopshillLogs

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CA RMA R THE N

To get fit, it’s time to get Funky Funky Pump is the phenomenal fitness class that not only gets results but leaves you buzzing and wanting more. An exercise class offering an alternative to uninspiring everyday gyms, if you’re looking to workout in an uplifting nightclub atmosphere then this class is for you! C LASSES

Qualified Funkypump instructors take you through your paces with a combination of boxing and aerobics, while a live DJ plays the hottest house music. Funkypump offers a unique style of exercise with specific attention to core and cardio to create the perfect physique. Client base is diverse, ranging from all ages and levels of ability. Some Funkypumpers’ aim is to loose weight, some to gain muscle and others to maintain fitness levels.

This class is a brilliant foundation to build a good level of fitness. Limited space. Funkypump’s Saturday morning class is Guerilla Fitness that offers an asymmetric approach to building core strength while using the environment. We’re talking tractor tyres for flipping, battling ropes, kettle bells, sledge hammers, sandbags and more! There really is no other class like it.

Funkypump ■ Monday & Thursday 6.30 - 7.30pm Held at Trinity Students Union ■ Wednesday 6.15 - 7pm Held at D12 Fitness Gym Funkpump Lite ■ Friday 6.15 - 7pm Held at D12 Fitness Gym Guerilla Fitness ■ Saturday 8 - 9am Held at D12 Fitness Gym

Also on offer is a stripped back class Funkypump Lite that concentrates on form and technique. Many of those who attend this class are individuals new to the world of fitness, returning to fitness, or have experienced an injury and want to get back into it.

For some the hardest part is walking through the door for the first time, but none of the Funkypump premises are testosterone filled pits of angry men, but a friendly and fun atmosphere. Just listen to the funky music and throw those punches!

Funky Pump Fitness University of Wales Trinity Saint David Carmarthen Campus Carmarthen SA31 3EP Contact Nik or Shane on: 07780 459 415 or 07929 177 190 www.funkypumpfitness.com

You can like us on Facebook too and we’re also going to be doing a Twitter feed which will be coming soon.

P E M B ROKESHIR E

www.westlifewales.co.uk www.facebook.com/WestLifeMag

Redbull Cliff Diving World Series

On the Friday the divers completed a practice dive followed by a scored dive that ranked them for the head-to-head dives on Saturday. With dives lasting only 3 seconds, cliff divers are judged on criteria similar to Olympic standards with technique, synchronisation of rotations and twists, clean lines and water entry all being scored. Four times Olympic diving champion Greg Louganis, was one of the judges.

ONLINE

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.

Tickets sold out as hundreds of spectators turned out as the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series made its UK debut in Pembrokeshire. The two-day event held at the Blue Lagoon in Abereiddy back in September, saw 14 of the world’s best divers launch themselves into the sea from a 27 meter man-made platform, three times the height of the Olympic diving board. On both days, the action kicked off with a breathtaking exhibition of aerobatics by the Red Bull ‘Matadors.’ The aeroplanes ran side by side as the pilots went through a host of moves to entertain the crowd. ❧ 7 ❧

American Steven Lobue came first, with Colombia's Orlando Duque second and British diver Gary Hunt taking third. However, finishing the World Series later that month in Oman, British diver Gary Hunt took home the winning spot for the overall competition with 860 points. www.redbullcliffdiving.com

PEM BRO K E

The Cornstore truly a dream store Situated on its own quayside opposite the historic Castle of Pembroke the Cornstore is a shop packed full of great ideas for the home. Displayed over three floors there are sumptuous leather suits, occasional chairs and solid wood furniture. Cushions and throws are available and co-ordinate neatly with ranges of design lead lighting, mirrors, images and home accessories. A visit to the jewellery room for gift ideas or perhaps a special treat is always popular whilst their range of handbags and personal accessories are always worth viewing. Couple all of the above with their Quayside Café serving Pembrokeshire produce and really good Italian Coffee wrapped up in an historic building and you get ‘truly a dream store’. The Cornstore North Quay, Pembroke SA71 4NU 01646 684290 www.thecornstore.com PEM BRO K E

Primrose Cottages - the perfect Pembroke break Primrose Holiday Cottages in the beautiful and historic town of Pembroke is a newly built, modern collection of Holiday Cottages comprising of three, two and one bedroom 4 Star properties. The Cottages are located on the attractive Commons which is a short walk from the town centre and within easy reach of the beautiful Pembrokeshire Coastline including the Coastal Path, local beaches and attractions.

The Cottages are easily accessed by all public transport services. All cottages benefit from modern environmentally friendly underfloor heating throughout. The choices of accommodation include: Three bed Town Houses sleeping six. Two bedroom Maisonettes sleeping four. One Bedroom Apartments sleeping two. All master bedrooms are king size with en-suite wet rooms. All properties have private south facing gardens, balconies or courtyards and all apartments are finished in bright, modern, contemporary, nautical themes and are fully equipped, furnished and decorated to a high standard. Parking is off street in the communal walled parking area.

A Welcome Pack on arrival provides that all needed cuppa after travelling and the basics to get you started. Primrose Cottages can cater for up to eighteen guests which make Primrose Cottages ideal for friends and families travelling and holidaying together. EXCLUSIVE WES T LIFE OFFER When enquiring, please quote discount code WLW W2012 to receive a 10% discount off your booking. Primrose Cottages Commons Road Pembroke SA71 4EB 07796 170418 celtichomesltd@gmail.com www.primrosecottagespembrokeshire.com

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A KIND OF MAGIC There are some beautiful hotels in Wales, and some are fortunate enough to be in truly beautiful locations, Ynyshir Hall is one of those select few.

On our arrival, we were met by owner, and award-winning hotel manager, Joan Reen. Joan is the perfect host and gave us an insight into the fascinating history of Ynyshir Hall.

There’s plenty of information on their excellent website but I can say it was once owned by Queen Victoria, who was responsible for much of the gardens as we you’d them today. The hotel was acquired in 1928 by William Hubert Mappin of jewellers, Mappin & Webb. On his death in 1966, 1,000 acres of the estate were sold to the RSPB, to establish the bird reserve that surrounds the grounds. We made sure that we spent a few relaxing hours strolling around the reserve. Ynyshir Hall has had its fair share of celebrity clients over the years, and is favoured by the great and good. Joan recounted a tale of when she turned away the ‘slightly scruffy’ Robert Plant late one night. Fortunately Robert hasn’t held it against her and has stayed ❧ 10 ❧

several times since. My wife’s ears pricked up at the news that Richard Gere had also been a guest. I must confess I was more interested in Ynyshir Hall’s rock star heritage. I can understand why Ynyshir Hall has such eminent clientele. It’s incredibly private, set in the most beautiful grounds and just exudes quality. It’s quirky and creative: Rob Reen’s artwork adorns the walls, and the hotel interior, and each of the nine beautifully appointed bedrooms (each named after famous artists), offer understated elegance and luxurious comfort. Each room mixes the traditional and contemporary. Several suites have their own sitting rooms and all have their own fabulous bathroom en-suite.

A little research on the internet prior to our visit prompted us to book dinner at the hotel. For a treat, we chose the highly-praised tasting menu (£90 per person) with accompanying wine at £60 per person.

This might sound a touch extravagant but I’m a great believer that it is experiences, not things, that enrich our lives and I can assure you this particular experience will be with us for many years to come. Ynyshir Hall offers nothing short of Michelin Star standard. From the minute we arrived at Ynyshir Hall, we felt this place had something special - something quite spiritual. Our room, the food, the service - all faultless. I’m not sure what we were expecting but Joan and her staff exceeded our expectations with what seemed like ease. Would I return? In a heartbeat. Ynyshir Hall is officially one of my favourite hotels ever. You hear the cliché home-from-home used a lot to describe hotels. In this case, it’s true, and what a magical home it is. ❧ 11 ❧

Ynyshir Hall Eglwysfach Machynlleth SY20 8TA 01654 781209 www.ynyshirhall.co.uk

Boots by Ugg Australia

Whenever my wardrobe needs an injection of the latest season’s clothes, you would think that my first thought would be to head off into the city to the larger stores but you would be wrong.

BRYL’S BOUTIQUE You see, I’ve learnt over the years that I’m much better off shopping locally at an independent boutique.

Why? Well for many reasons. (1) local boutique owners don’t buy a lot of the same stock so you don’t run the fashion gauntlet of bumping into someone wearing the same item as you (2) a local boutique owner knows me, my lifestyle and my personality so is much more equipped to give me the best advice on what suits me and (3) with less overheads to pay for, chances are the prices are more affordable.

With brands such as French Connection, Sandwich, Nougat, Ted Baker, Darling, Traffic People, Great Plans, and her latest special occasion brand, Kate Cooper, Bryl’s Boutique has all that you need for daytime, evening and special occasions.

Mention West Life and you will get £20 off their large range of Ugg Australia footwear. Also look out for the arrival of new brand Beloved as seen on ITV’s This Morning.

Bryl’s Boutique in Barry ticks all three boxes. Owner Ann Bryl makes it her business to get to know her customers and their needs so that as soon as you walk in through the door, her mind immediately selects items that will suit you and your lifestyle. She has great fashion sense, buys stock that is on trend and knows will appeal to her clients. Her staff include family members which keeps the overheads down and which is reflected on the prices on the tickets.

Bryl’s Boutique 7 High Street, Barry CF62 7DZ 01446 748246 www.bryls-boutique.co.uk Find us on Facebook – Bryls Boutique

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Businesses based at Carew Airfield Complex

THE LARGEST & MOST EXCITING KART TRACK IN PEMBROKESHIRE! l 500m outdoor asphalt track l Fleet of 390cc (13hp) Thunder karts l Computerised timing system, full safety briefing and printout of lap times for each competitor l Free use of protective clothing

If you would be interested in basing your business at Carew Airfield Complex please telephone: 01646 651 442

Open Wed to Fri 12.30pm - 8pm Please call for availability Find us at Carew Airfield SA70 8SX Call 01559 384078 or 07974 5450689 For more details email carewkarting@btinternet.com www.carewkarting.co.uk

Ltd A ROOM WITH A VIEW

CARAVAN SALES AT CAREW AIRFIELD

For all your bike Servicing, Repairs, Motâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Parts, Tyres and Accessories. New Website available soon!

Telephone: 01646 685900

Email: kevingale5@aol.com

Auction Sales held every second Saturday of each month at Carew Airfield Pavilion An efficient and economical way of turning unwanted assets into cash â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the ultimate recycling! We offer free parking for up to 1,000 cars, and auctions are held undercover. We sell Antiques, Collectables, Modern Furniture, White Goods, China, Militaria, Jewellery, Vehicles, Boats, Gardening/outside Equipment, etc. Delivery collection service and storage facility available. 2013 Auction Dates Feb 9th, March 9th, April 13th, May 11th, June 8th July 13th, Aug 10th, Sept 14th, Oct 12th, Nov 9th Dec/Jan 2014: NO SALE Viewing prior to the sale: Friday 4pm - 7pm Saturday 9am - 10am. Sales start at 10am

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Carew Airfield Pavilion and Showground Carew Airfield is well known for its popular Sunday Market and Car Boot Sale. It’s one of the largest family run markets in Wales and is still thriving after 35 years. West Life talked to Phil and Sue Davies to find out why it’s so popular. “It’s everything you’d hope a market would be,” says Sue. “Everyone likes to pick up a bargain and there are plenty of those here! People like to socialise and the market still has that community feel about it.

“There’s hot food and drinks, free parking and superb undercover facilities. Carew Market is a popular place to visit on a Sunday. There’s a real buzz about the place.” With a variety of stalls on offer for visitors, including fresh fruit and vegetables, crafts, DIY materials, pet accessories, garden equipment and much more, whatever you need it seems to be available here from one of the many indoor and outdoor trade stalls.

If you’re interested in becoming an Inside Trader, please contact Carew Airfield on 01646 651 422 for more information about booking a weekly stand. Who knows, you might be the next Marks & Spencer! Did you know! ■ Carew Airfield Pavilion is also available for sporting, corporate and community events. ■ Commercial Unit Rentals ■ Office Space Rental

You don’t need to book for the car boot sales either, just simply turn up on the day, set up your stall and your fee is collected by the market manager.

Carew Airfield Sageston, Tenby Pembrokeshire SA70 8SX 01646 651 422 www.CarewAirfield.com Open every Sunday and Bank holiday Monday. Car boot set up: 7am - 9am Public access: 9am - 4pm

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Tucked into the Welsh hillside, standing proud over the world famous Gower and Carmarthenshire coastline, Stradey Park Hotel in Llanelli waits to welcome you into the family.

STRADEY PARK HOTEL Prepare to be spoiled as the team at Stradey Park Hotel take great delight in making your visit the first of many. They take pride in their first class service, and have earned each one of their four stars by creating an art form out of attention to detail.

“Whether a family break, romantic weekend or corporate event, you will find nothing is too much trouble to guarantee your comfort and enjoyment at Stradey Park Hotel in Llanelli.”

S LEEP

M A R RY

Wrap yourself up in the luxury of individually styled accommodation, as you lay claim to one of 82 rooms across our gracious Edwardian mansion hotel in Llanelli.

Stradey Park Hotel has been recognised as one of the leading wedding venues in West Wales, winning a host of awards for the high quality of service offered and the quality of venue. Contact one of our Personal Wedding Coordinators for an informal chat or request a brochure.

Stradey Park Hotel is a TripAdvisor certificate of excellence holder.

S TR AD EY PAR K HO TEL

Stradey Lunch Club & Stradey Supper Club Once a month at Stradey Park Hotel we hold our Lunch Club from 12.30pm 2.30pm. Guests are given a cookery demonstration before enjoying a delicious 3 course meal for only £15pp. Every month we invite a different food supplier to attend and sell fresh produce. On 31st January 2013 we will be launching the Stradey Supper Club, an evening version of the Lunch Club, which will feature a cooking demonstration and fine dining 3 course meal for only £20pp. Places will be limited and booking is essential.

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WO R K

Housed within Stradey Park Hotel is the exclusive Samphires Restaurant. Head Chef Stewart Williams and his team use locally sourced ingredients wherever possible to give you delicious meals whilst supporting local businesses. Our menu changes seasonally to ensure the freshest ingredients are used in your meal.

Stradey Park Hotel offers a range of conference rooms of all sizes to cater for conferences from 2 - 400 delegates. All conference rooms come equipped with state-of-the-art technology and Wifi is free throughout the hotel. Preferential room rates are available for business guests. Please request a conference pack.

Scan the QR Code to subscribe to Stradey Park Hotel’s mailing list and receive information on the latest offers and events ❧ 16 ❧

To join the mailing list or for more information please contact Reception using the contact details below.

Stradey Park Hotel Llanelli Carmarthenshire SA15 4HA 01554 758171 reservations@stradeyparkhotel.com www.stradeyparkhotel.com Follow on Facebook and Twitter

Weekend Getaway FRI DAYS O R SAT U R DAYS

Enjoy a delicious meal for 2 in the highly acclaimed Samphires Restaurant before enjoying a relaxing nights rest in one of our individually styled rooms. The next morning fill up on a hearty Welsh carvery buffet breakfast for two before departing.

£110 per night for 2 people* * Subject to T&C and availability. £25 single supplement. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

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Approved by Aston Martin, Bentley and Nissan, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the cream of automotive brands is all you’ll see passing through the body shop and spray booth at Davies Motor Company. With winter on the horizon, owner Sean Davies says this is the time when the classics and customs start to arrive in the workshop. We take a look at one of Davies Motors’ latest projects; a 1976 Toyota Celica GT2000. What’s the story behind this particular car Sean? It’s a 1976 Toyota Celica GT2000 RA28. It’s the first generation of the modern Celica you see driving around today. There were several models similar in style and two liftback coupe models like this the ST2000 had a single overhead cam 2 litre engine but this is the very rare GT which had a twin cam 2 litre plus some other upgrades. No ABS, no driver-assist - It’s really fun to drive. It looks a lot like an old Bullitt style Mustang... Yes, it’s affectionately called the poor man’s Mustang. In the early years, Toyota’s styling was ‘influenced’ a lot by the American market. This model is very similar in style to the Mustang driven in the film Bullitt by Steve McQueen. You do see them in Bullitt Highland green occasionally.

Not quite the same colour... No, this is a little less subtle. The base colour is the same as when it came in although it has had a full respray. The owner bought it in that colour and, although he has plans to change the colour completely in the future, he wanted one more season in the existing colour. This was very much a restyle and re-spray exercise with some subtle changes to make the car unique.

Fans of the RA28 GT will spot the subtle treatment around the front grill. The owner wanted the sidelights removed and replaced with new metal to give a cleaner line from the bonnet into the front bumper. He also wanted a competition style petrol cap so we’ve replaced the standard flip cover with a motorcycle locking fuel cap from a Honda Fireblade motorcycle. We also polished and repainted the wheels and colourcoded the bumpers and calipers.

What’s been done exactly? Well, all the wheels and doors came off and the glass was removed. We wanted to make sure it was completely rust-free going forward. We had to be careful as windscreens and rear windows are particularly hard to come by for classic Celicas. The Celica was in great shape but there were some issues with corrosion around the bottom of the front windscreen and the bottom of the tailgate, a known problem area on this particular model, so we’ve completely renewed a section of the tailgate and incorporated a keyless lock which can be opened from the inside by the driver.

Tell us about the paintwork... It’s very retro, very seventies and I’m delighted with the end result. I think the customer is already talking to various national and international magazines about having it featured. He has talked about selling it to get into a new project but I think he’s having second thoughts now.

Photography by Paul Cornish

What other projects are you working on? By the time your readers will see this, we will have completed a full restoration on an MGB and a classic Jaguar XJ will have had the Davies Motors magic but we work on all sorts - from family saloons to top of the line Aston Martins and Bentleys. Honestly, a good sixty percent of our work is standard stuff; Peugeots, Fords, Citroens, Alfas, Audis, Hondas, BMWs - we fix them all. The very poor weather this summer has kept us busy – lots of rain equals lots of business. We get a lot of the usual bumps and shunts to deal with but we treat every car as if it’s a Porsche, Bentley or Mercedes. Every customer’s car gets the five star treatment - it’s the only way we know how to work. Davies Motor Company Hadfield Close Leckwith, Cardiff CF11 8BD 029 2039 4407 info@daviesmotorcompany.co.uk www.daviesmotorcompany.com

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TURNING JAPANESE

Non-surgical cosmetic treatments at Spire Cardiff If you want to improve the appearance of your skin without undergoing surgery our expert cosmetic consultants can help you achieve a smoother, more youthful look with a range of treatments.

For more information

029 2054 2509

info@spirecardiff.com www.spirecosmeticsurgery.com

Cosmetic Surgery Cardiff Hospital Spire Cardiff Hospital, Croescadarn Road, Pentwyn, Cardiff, CF23 8XL

When you’re looking for quality interior design, it pays to use someone with a proven track record. Hilary and Keith Newman tell us the reasons they chose Janey Evers to style their Grade II listed home.

TRIED & TESTED Where was the work carried out? The work was carried out at our house in Tenby (Southsea House, Lower Frog Street) which is a five bedroom, three storey, Grade II listed, terraced house within the town walls. How did you come to hear about Janey? By personal recommendation - from one of the building renovation team working on the house. The property was being restored to a family house from a maisonette and flat. What work did Janey carry out? Janey gave us overall advice about style of décor and about colour schemes for walls and carpets. Each room was given a distinctive feel within the overall design of the house. The form, colour and fabric for the soft furnishings for each room were chosen by us after discussion with Janey who had plenty of examples of fabric to show us. She made the curtains, blinds and cushions after sourcing the fabric. She also sourced Venetian blinds and curtain poles. She advised us about lighting and informed of specialist lighting companies.

“Each room was given a distinctive feel within the overall design.” Did you have an input in the design or did you leave it to Janey? We told Janey about our ideas and then she brought her expertise and experience to the situation to bring about a successful and pleasing result. In some cases we changed our ideas after discussion with her. Were you pleased with the outcome? Yes, very pleased. We found that using an interior designer was a much more pleasant and effective experience than searching the high street or the internet. We also found it to be more cost effective in that mistakes were avoided and purchases sourced for us from a wide variety of trusted suppliers. The curtains and blinds fitted and hung well which was due to the method of construction. When our children visited they likened our house to a boutique hotel.

What particular qualities did Janey bring to the project? She was very professional but friendly in her approach. She always made us aware of the costs before proceeding and gave us choices. She met all the time scales agreed. Janey has a very good eye for what is going to look right in a house and is very artistic. She has very good professional qualifications. Would you recommend Janey to friends and family? Yes, unreservedly. We will be using her to help us to give our house in Surrey a facelift.

“Janey has a very good eye for what is going to look right in a house and is very artistic.”

TRIED & TRUSTED Janey Evers Interiors 1 Gower View, Gumfreston Tenby SA70 8RB 07710 273211 info@janeyeversinteriors.co.uk www.janeyeversinteriors.co.uk

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When Ironman arrived in west Wales in 2011, the vast majority had no idea what to expect of this event. What does one of the toughest events in sport, comprising a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and 26.2 mile run, bring to the county of Pembrokeshire?

WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH of athletes and supporters who descend on the town at the end of the season by producing special menus for athletes and changing their opening times to accommodate the slightly different Sunday schedule that Ironman brings.

Photograph courtesy of Gareth Davies Photography

No one then could have predicted that after its second year, it could have touched so many local people in so many different ways. Residents who turned out to watch the event in 2011 were mesmerised by the sights and sounds; be that the 1,500 athletes gathered on the North Beach for the swim start, as they pedalled their way around the bike course or as the runners wound their way around Tenby on the marathon course. Athletes from home and abroad praised the sensational atmosphere, which spurred many on to reach the finish line and achieve their ultimate goal of becoming an Ironman. The event grew and developed for this year’s race on 16th September, attracting a sell-out field of 1,600 competitors from across 40 countries. Lessons were learnt and improvements made but it is really the way that the event has been embraced by the community that is making Ironman Wales unique. Nicola Coates is just one of a number of locals who, having watched or volunteered in 2011, were inspired to attempt the Ironman event, joining Carlton on the start line in 2012. It’s the Welsh welcome that makes the overriding difference to sealing such success. From their first arrival in Wales, the volunteers turn out on force to make their Ironman experience as special as possible.

As race day arrives, the Welsh national anthem heralds the 7am starting gun on Tenby’s North Beach and the crowds turn out in their thousands to line the course with bells, clappers and drums to create a deafening support of the athletes right through to the final finisher as midnight approaches. Armed with homemade flags, banners and t-shirts they are the warmest and hardiest of spectators any competitor could wish for. Ironman Europe race commentator Paul Kaye hailed Tenby and Pembrokeshire as, “an amazing town and an amazing county”. He added, “I’ve worked on 17 of the events in the Ironman Europe tour and this is the one that stands out. The atmosphere was phenomenal!” Pembrokeshire Country Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for major events, Cir. Rob Lewis described the event as, “another stunning success and a wonderful advertisement for our county. The publicity it generates worldwide is something that as a local authority we could never afford to buy. And with all the competitors and spectators the event brings, the boost to our tourist economy is significant.” Ironman Wales is estimated to generate a £4m spend in the county, both in the build up to, and over the race week. Many businesses embraced the race and benefited from the arrival of thousands ❧ 22 ❧

A proud nation, the county becomes an endless shop window of Ironman Wales flags, with Saundersfoot erecting 50 flags along its Promenade in the weeks before the race. Saundersfoot has become one of the spectator hot spots to watch and cheer the cyclists up one of the toughest points on the 112 mile bike course - it doesn’t earn its title as ‘Heartbreak Hill’ without reason! The Pro field may relish this epic climb that separates the men from the boys, but the rest of the field are driven to the top not once, but twice, by the roaring support and fanfare from the spectators. Whilst the leaders complete the 2.4 mile sea swim, followed by the 112 mile bike through the truly spectacular yet brutal Pembrokeshire National Park before a 26.2 mile run in and around Tenby in just under a mind boggling 9 hours, the event attracts competitors from all walks of life who fancy this world class challenge. Regardless of ability, every athlete appreciates the help and support provided by the volunteers over the race week. It’s never too late to take up the challenge - the eldest competitor at this year’s Ironman Wales was 74 years old, whilst the sell-out 400 participants of IronKids can compete from the age of 5! Next year’s Ironman Wales is over the weekend of 7th and 8th September. To find out more and for online entry please visit www.ironmanwales.com If 2013 is not the year for you, the organisers World Endurance UK are always looking for volunteers. If you’d like to be part of the action you can register online at the website or contact the Race Office on 01865 596266.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Athletes from home and abroad praised the sensational atmosphere.â&#x20AC;?

You can judge a society by how it treats its most vulnerable and a recent visit to Beechwood College in Sully reassured me that some people feel the same. Here, a team of truly wonderful people are working to help some of our most vulnerable members of society realise their potential in a caring and nurturing environment.

A SPECIAL LIFE

How long does the placement last? Usually two years, Having said that, as the college have identified that there is more that they can do to develop Rhys we have been fortunate to gain a third and final year for him at the college. Can Rhys stay there indefinitely? If not what would happen then? As in the above answer, unfortunately he cannot stay there indefinitely - the burning question for us as a family is what happens next? Whilst we are extremely grateful to Carmarthenshire County Council and the Welsh Government for funding Rhys’ placement at Beechwood College, unfortunately there is nothing in Carmarthenshire that can be remotely compared to it. We dream of winning the lottery so that we could continue to fund his placement at Beechwood College.

Beechwood College is Wales’ first Further Education College dedicated to supporting young people and adults (aged 16+) with autistic spectrum conditions or Asperger’s Syndrome. The College provides clinical, physical, learning, sensory, social and emotional needs to its students. West Life talks with Vernon and Janet Thomas from Carmarthenshire whose son Rhys is a student at Beechwood College.

How did you hear about Beechwood College? We heard about Beechwood College from Ben Smith of Hywel Dda NHS Trust Behaviour Intervention Team, whom has worked tirelessly on Rhys’ behalf and has been a knight in shining armour for our family.

What difficulties does Rhys experience? The difficulties Rhys faces is predominantly communication and his inability to articulate himself leads to bouts of frustration.

How do you think Rhys benefits from being at Beechwood College? Rhys is benefiting greatly from his stay at Beechwood College. The staff are experts in autism they have developed his communication skills which, in turn, has led to a greater understanding and a reduction in the bouts of frustration. Also the facilities that the college can offer are second-to-none and Rhys’ days are packed with activities and life skills.

Did Rhys attend a special needs school? No, Rhys did not attend additional needs schools but attended additional needs units in a mainstream primary/secondary setting. Obviously these units had to cater for all additional needs and, therefore, were not specialists in autism.

How much time does Rhys spend there? Rhys is on a 38 week placement.

How long has Rhys been at Beechwood College? Rhys started at Beechwood College in September 2010. ❧ 24 ❧

What concerns you most about the future for Rhys? Our main concern for Rhys is that whilst we are fit and well we will do our best to make Rhys’ life as easy as possible for him however, we are conscious of the fact that we are getting older and worry what will happen when we are no longer around. All families get financial assistance from either the Welsh Government or Local Authority. The deadline for application submissions for September 2013 intake is the end of January 2013. If you are a parent or social worker wanting more information or to arrange a visit to Beechwood College, please contact Colin Howarth on 029 2053 2210 or email colin.howarth@Ishealthcare.co.uk

Beechwood College Hayes Road Sully CF64 5SE 029 2053 2210 www.beechwoodcollege.co.uk

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When Mr and Mrs Churchill wanted to update their kitchen and put in an en-suite, there was only one company they were going to call GW of St Clears. West Life visits the couple at their lovely home just outside Carmarthen.

TRIED & TESTED THE D ESIGN P RO C ESS

Design challenge small spaces While the kitchen makeover was a relative walk in the park for GW of St Clears’ designer, Adriana, the en-suite was an altogether more challenging task. John Mycroft rose to the occasion, designing an ensuite in the least amount of space. John was asked to design and construct an en-suite bathroom in their bedroom similar to one he’d recently completed in Carmarthen for a friend of the couple.

What made you choose GW of St Clears to undertake your work? GW’s installed a bathroom for us a few years ago and we were so pleased with the work we naturally thought of them when we decided to update our kitchen. Did you talk to other companies before choosing GW? GW was the only company that we spoke to. What work did GW carry out? GW installed a new kitchen and they also installed an en-suite bathroom in our bedroom. Did you have an input into the design or did you leave it to GW? Adriana gave us two designs for the kitchen to consider after she visited us and discussed our requirements. We decided on the one we preferred and met up with her at the showroom and finalised the details. She has a great eye for colour and design and was able to help us choose the worktops and the radiator that would best complement the units and the flooring. There was also a great choice of fabrics for the window blind and a fabulous selection of mirrors in the show room so we were really spoilt for choice.

John made a brilliant job of designing the en-suite which had to be very compact because of space constraints in the bedroom. He helped us select the tiles on floor and walls from the quite vast range available at GW. Were you happy with the work GW carried out? We are thrilled with both the kitchen and en-suite and cannot compliment them enough. The men who installed them were excellent. They are all craftsmen and it was a real pleasure to keep them going with cups of tea.

John said, “After visiting the couple’s home and carrying out a site survey, I returned to GW of St Clears and set about drawing the bedroom to scale. I incorporated their existing bed and bedroom furniture on my plan and found that there was sufficient space to incorporate an en-suite bathroom with a sliding door. The Clients visited the showroom, examined my plans over a coffee, chose wall and floor tiles and approved my design and choices, at which point I was able to give an accurate cost for the job. The work took the anticipated two weeks and the clients were delighted.”

Was the project completed on time and on budget? Both kitchen and bathroom were completed to the timescale set out, and on budget. Would you recommend GW to family and friends? We already have recommended GW of St. Clears to our friends. No hesitation!

“John made a brilliant job of designing the en-suite which had to be very compact.” ❧ 26 ❧

TRIED & TRUSTED 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

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are thrilled with both the kitchen and en-suite and cannot compliment GW enough.â&#x20AC;?

Llandovery College, set in the heart of the stunning Towy Valley, is one of Wales’s oldest and most respected independent schools.

IN SEARCH OF EXCELLENCE At the heart of Llandovery College’s ethos is the emphasis on the importance of individual effort, talent and attainment - a philosophy that extends beyond the classroom onto the field of play and across the wide spectrum of cultural and leisure activities. Through the College’s thriving Combined Cadet Force and the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme, pupils often discover unexpected talents while acquiring the vital skills of leadership, responsibility, consideration and endurance.

Within its 45 acres of safe, wooded campus there is a wonderful mix of traditional and modern; a truly global approach to education and an international reputation for sport. Mellow old buildings blend with modern teaching faculties and pupils have access to the very latest technology and facilities. Headmaster Guy Ayling says, “Our parents and pupils speak of the ‘unique feeling’ they get at Llandovery College which, they say, sets us apart from other schools. We believe this is because we are a small school with a strong sense of community and which values respect, honesty, integrity and academic determination. All this is strongly rooted in our Welsh culture and heritage.” Academic excellence is Llandovery College’s primary aim and their 2012 A Level examination results reflect this. A record 64 per cent of students achieved A*-B grades (a four per cent increase on last year while a total of 81 per cent gained A*-C).

Star of stage and song, Rhydian Roberts who rose to fame as an X Factor finalist, is a former head boy at Llandovery College. Rising star Iwan Lewis, who recently appeared in the film version of Les Miserables alongside Russell Crowe and Hugh Jackman, is also a former pupil. As a broad-ability school, Llandovery College offers both day and boarding places to boys and girls from the ages of four to eighteen. Classes are kept deliberately small, and in so doing create a strong sense of community within a unique home-from-home environment. Cosy boarding houses are run by houseparents, themselves teachers with their own families, ensuring pupils thrive in a stable environment.

Llandovery College Prep School Llandovery College Prep School is growing at an unprecedented rate. The school has seen a remarkable 32% increase in numbers this year and is still growing! Prep pupils enjoy an incredibly broadbased curriculum and a rich and varied co-curricular activity programme that includes swimming, hockey, rugby, netball, fencing, athletics, cross country, Chess, Welsh, French and Spanish, Drama, Music, LAMDA, Nature and Photography, ‘Big Sing’ Choir and a Philosophy and Debating Society. Buses run daily from Carmarthen, Ammanford, Llanelli, Lampeter and Brecon. DATES FO R YO UR D IARY

Entrance Exam and Scholarship Day Saturday 19th January 2013 at 9.30am Rugby & Sports Scholarship Day Saturday 23rd February 2013 at 9.30am Llandovery College and Llandovery Prep School Open Morning Saturday 20th April at 9.30am A very warm welcome awaits you. To register your interest in any of these dates, contact the Admissions Office admissions@llandoverycollege.com or call 01550 723 005.

Well-known for its sporting excellence, Llandovery College takes great pride in having four former pupils in the Wales squad. George North, Andy Powell, Rhodri Thomas and Alun Wyn Jones are all old boys.

For further information please contact Vicky Douch on 01550 723005 admissions@llandoverycollege.com www.llandoverycollege.com

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WIN! A fabulous photo shoot worth over £135

Gill Finucane of Finucane Photography in Narberth is offering one lucky winner the opportunity to win a studio shoot in Narberth. The lucky winner will receive a studio photo shoot and 2 x mounted prints (A4 size). The shoot duration will be one to two hours in the studio in the beautiful market town of Narberth. This could be a great opportunity to have a photo taken with loved ones or a portrait to cherish. Finucane Photography 11 Market Square, Narberth Pembrokeshire SA67 7AU 07984 607 917 www.finucanephotography.com

To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the question in the box below and either post your entry to: Finucane Photography Competition West Life, Cardiff House, Cardiff Road CF63 2AW or email your answer and contact details to sophie@westlifewales.co.uk

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Closing date: March 1 2013

Who is the owner of Finucane Photography

Answer

Name Address

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.

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Social Life covers launches, parties, exhibitions, charity events, fashion shows, engagements and weddings.

WEST

CA RMA R THE NS HI R E

Pretty in Pink raises £20,000

The event raised £20,000 for Ty Bryngwyn Hospice (A centre of Excellence for Palliative Care) and the fun-filled glitzy evening with a fine three course dinner ensured guests had a most enjoyable time. Stradey Park Hotel Llanelli Carmarthenshire SA15 4HA 01554 758171 reservations@stradeyparkhotel.com www.stradeyparkhotel.com

Photographs courtesy of C A Photography

Pretty in Pink, a celebrity dinner and fashion show took place on 18th October at Stradey Park Hotel in Llanelli.

A BERA E RO N

Steil Charity Fashion Show 2012 On Thursday October 25th, Steil boutique hosted its first ever charity fashion show at the Castle Hotel, Aberaeron. It was a wonderful evening with champagne reception and helped raise £500 for Cancer Research UK. The night was compered by Radio Cymru’s Yvonne Evans and was organised and styled by personal style consultant Eleanor Gardner of Style-id (www.style-id.co.uk).

Janet modelling

Steil 11 Bridge Street, Aberaeron Ceredigion SA46 0AR www.steilaberaeron.co.uk Meinir Bowen, Dai James ,Eleanor Gardner, Yvonne Evans

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Jennifer modelling

SOCIAL LIFE LLA NE L L I

The great and the good head for Stradey A wonderful evening full of nostalgia was enjoyed by all at the Ray Gravell & Friends Charitable Trust Annual Patrons Dinner on Friday 9th November at Stradey Park Hotel. The dinner raised over £3,000 for the Llanelli, Gorseinon and Carmarthen food banks via donations on the night and the auction of a fully signed ‘9-3’ rugby ball. The money raised will be used to purchase food to stock the food banks and Brian Jones of Castell Howell Foods (chfoods.co.uk) has agreed to sell this food to the Trust at cost price.

Champagne reception in the Castle Hotel

Karen and Mary from Parsley a Thyme shop, Aberaeron

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All the models and back stage helpers

WALES

Welsh Women Mean Business Awards 2013 Welsh Who Mean Business (WWMB) is passionate about encouraging, recognising and celebrating the extraordinary achievements of women in business. They are dedicated to providing not only a platform for successful women through their annual awards, but to encourage and support their endeavours through scholarships, conferences and training. Established in 2010 by former Welsh Woman of the Year, Sarah CorneliusPrice, and supported by her husband Ben Cornelius-Price they were committed to supporting and championing women of all ages across all sectors. In 2012 Sarah CorneliusPrice decided to gift the awards to the charity The Joshua Foundation of which she is the founder and president of. The WWMB Awards return for 2013 The Welsh Women Mean Business Awards are back and is guaranteed to be a bigger, better and more glamorous event than ever before sponsored by GoCompare.

“Awards which recognise the achievement and success of women in business across Wales.”

Founders of the WWMB Awards Sarah and Ben Cornelius-Price have gifted the running of the Awards to the Joshua Foundation, a charity that provides holidays and experiences for children with cancer and their families. Sarah is the founder and president of the charity. The Joshua Foundation are pleased to announce that the awards which recognise the achievement and success of women in business across Wales are back for 2013. The glittering awards ceremony will be hosted on 8th March 2013 at the Vale Resort & Spa, Wales UK. They are now accepting entries for 2013, closing date for applications is January 31st, 2013.

2013 CATEGORIES FOR ENTRANTS ■ Best Business Leader ■ Best Woman in a Legal Business

(Sponsor: Watkins & Gunn) ■ Best Woman in Financial Services and

Accountancy (Sponsor: Accounted For ltd) ■ Best Female Business Newcomer (Sponsor: Alphabyte IT) ■ Best Woman in Manufacturing ■ Best Woman in Business Investing in the Environment Award ■ Young Welsh Female Entrepreneur (under 25) (Sponsor: University of Glamorgan) ■ Best Woman in Property ■ Best Woman in a Media/Creative Business (Sponsor: Katie Brandon PR) ■ Best Woman in a Beauty Business (Sponsor: Ken Picton) ■ Best Woman in the Tourism/Leisure/Service Sector (Sponsor: Vale Resort & Spa). Overall Award: ■ The WWMB Woman Of The Year

2013. Special Awards: ■ The Joshua Foundation memorial

prize for outstanding contribution from a Businesswoman in the field of Charity work. Welsh Women Mean Business Please download theApplication Form and Information Booklet from www.wwmb.co.uk/awards

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Are you the next

ww b Woman of theYear Entries for WWMB are now open for more information see

www.wwmb.co.uk

ww b welsh women mean business

WWMB Awards 2013 will be held at the Vale Resort, Vale of Glamorgan on March 8th, 2013 Sponsored by In aid of The Joshua Foundation

Charity Number 1072365

Do you own a Fashion or Beauty business in Wales? Then enter Wales’first

WWMB Fashion & Beauty Awards The WWMB Fashion & Beauty Awards 2013 will recognise and celebrate fashion and beauty companies and individuals who have shown extraordinary creative, determination, dedication, courage and entrepreneurial skills. They are specifically targeted at owner / managers running small and mediumsized enterprises.

• Best Business Leader in Fashion & Beauty

• Best Welsh Designer Award • Best Medium/Large Fashion Business Award • Best Beauty Business Award • Best Small Fashion Business Award

WELSH FASHIO N AWARD & B S 2 EA 01 U T Y 3

• Best Day or Residential Spa of the Year • Best Therapist of the Year • Best Fashion or Beauty Business investing in the environment award For further information and enter, go to www.wwmb.co.uk ❧ 33 ❧

ww b welsh women mean business

THE LAST WORD Ellen Chapman is not only a grandmother, chef and nursery director, she’s also an Art Gallery Director of the popular Myrtle House Gallery in Llanelli. We spoke to Ellen about her many roles. Who are you and what do you do? My name is Ellen Chapman and, together with my husband Bill, we lead the Elim Pentecostal Church in Llanelli. I’m a grandma, a chef, nursery director and art gallery director. Do you love what you do? Absolutely. I love the opportunity to meet and serve people, and the gallery is the perfect place to do just that. Providing a wide selection of homemade cakes and the best Illy coffee we can, it is proving to be a great trigger for all sorts of conversations. I suppose making the visitors to the Gallery feel valued is a big part of what I love about this opportunity along with being able to create jobs for eleven local people and having great fun working together. What makes you different to other galleries? We set out to do something different in Llanelli. At our church facilities we had already been running a coffee shop and we thought it could work. We thought it would enable us to support and promote local artists and students in the local colleges and university. Nearly all of the artwork on display is produced locally, this was never the plan, to limit the gallery to just local people, but the amount of talent in west Wales is staggering and the more opportunities they have to show their talent the better. Which artists will you be showing during the winter months? We have an ever changing display of local artists work, people like Helen Elliot, Diane Mathias, James Chapman, Roger Lewis, Jo Partridge, Diana Lloyd, Siramik, Pembrey Pottery and other local people to numerous to list. We are really excited about our latest artist to be displaying with us in the gallery, Denise Di Battista a well know Llanelli artist. A big part of what we plan this autumn is to develop our connections with local schools and colleges to be able to showcase their work in our gallery and craft rooms on the first floor.

Which artist would you love to show in your gallery and why? There are so many good artists who live and exhibit in and around our area but what would be really great would to be to give exhibition space to some young artists and for it to be the break they needed to help them get going on an amazing career. What is on the café menu this season? The menu at Myrtle House Gallery is built around simple home-made soups and cawl. We also have a selection of paninis, but the most popular, by far, are our home-made cakes, with people coming to sample them from far and wide. Are there any exciting plans for the future? Indeed there are! We are planning to develop craft clubs in our craft room where artists and makers can share their skills and encourage people to pursue developing their own talents. These will be for both adults and children. We are also planning on doing guest evenings, where people will share about their journey, talking about why their particular area of art is important to them and what drew them into it. ❧ 34 ❧

On a personal level, what is your favourite food and where do you go to eat? Bill and I love to eat at Y Polyn whenever we can, but with the business of life at the moment that is not as often as we'd like. I think if I had to say what my favourite food was I'd struggle as I like anything that is well cooked and well presented but I do love Y Polyn's crispy belly pork followed by their panna cotta. Sum yourself up in three words Busy, excited, tired You may not know this but… In our first four months, I made over 600 cakes. In a nutshell, our philosophy is... Bringing hope to the high street. Myrtle House Gallery 29 Stepney Street Llanelli SA15 3YB 01554 750276 manager@mhgallery.co.uk www.mhgallery.co.uk Like on Facebook Follow on Twitter

WIN! SAUND E R S FO O T

A luxury two night stay for two worth £800 The lucky winner will enjoy one of St Brides Spa Hotel’s best sea view bedrooms and to start your weekend off properly you’ll receive a bottle of wine on arrival. The prize includes breakfast each morning and a three course evening meal each night. Each person will also be entitled to one 25 minute spa treatment during the stay and use of the thermal suite and hydro pool each day. St Brides Spa Hotel also has a fitness suite which will also be available to the lucky winners. So, whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway or good friends who deserve a pamper weekend away, this superb competition is definitely one you’ll want to enter. St Brides Spa Hotel St. Brides Hill, Pembrokeshire Saundersfoot SA69 9NH www.stbridesspahotel.com To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the question in the box below and either post your entry to: St Brides Spa Hotel competition, West Life Magazine, Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, CF63 2AW, or email your answer and contact details to jennifer@westlifewales.co.uk Please type ‘St Brides Spa Hotel competition’ in the email title. Closing date for entries 14.02.2013. Terms and conditions apply.

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In which county is St Brides Spa Hotel?

Answer

Name Address

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IF YOU CAN DREAM IT

W E CA N C R EAT E I T