2
LifeStyle
welcome
LifeStyle
Call: 01326 213333
November 27, 2012
Getting ready for a perfect Christmas SO, with just four weeks to go until the big day itself, there was only ever going to be one subject for LifeStyle to focus on in this edition - Christmas. From gifts for the special woman in your life, to perfect presents for gardeners, we are covering every angle. Our what’s on guide is taking a special look at all of the festive-themed events taking place in Falmouth and beyond over the next month. Meanwhile our gadgets guide is looking at the best ways of keeping warm and dry as the weather becomes more wintry. There are also your reviews of the latest books and albums, our guide to the best new app for your phone, fashion tips for the Christmas party, and our motoring guide on the latest car to hit the showroom. For the first time, we are also featuring readers pictures in our pages, with the sunset over Falmouth’s seafront on page 11 taken by Jo Trevelyan last month and Kennal Vale by Ted Schofeild on page 10. If you want to see your pictures featured in LifeStyle, then simply email them to the editor at the address shown (right), and the best ones will be chosen each fortnight. Happy Christmas! The LifeStyle team
n Contents What’s On 4– Where to see the lights 5– Festive entertainment Reviews 6– Judy Finnigan Why family means more than TV 6– Album reviews Example Breaking Dawn Neil Young and Crazy Horse
LifeStyle Views 10 – 11 Your pictures Fashion 12 – A Sparkling Christmas party Motoring 20 – Audi A1 Sportback road test Gadgets 23 – Hot stuff to keep you warm
Gifts for her 7– Gorgeous presents this Christmas
Recipes 23 – Meaty recipes for winter
Competitions 9– Get pampered at Budock Vean
Gardening 26 – Green fingered festive gifts
n Editor
Paul Armstrong Tel: 01326 213336 email: paul.armstrong@ packetseries.co.uk
n Advertising
Carley Savage Tel: 01326 213302 carley.savage@ packetseries.co.uk
n Address
Lifestyle Unit 3, Falmouth Business Park, Bickland Water Road Falmouth TR11 4SZ Front page picture: Mylor Bridge in the snow Picture: Paul Armstrong This page: Penryn in the snow Picture: The Packet
3
4
November 27, 2012
what’s on
Call: 01326 213333
LifeStyle
Truro comes alive
n A crowd gathers for celebrations in Falmouth for last year’s lights switch-on
A fabulous festive Falmouth FALMOUTH will be full of fabulous festive fun this Christmas, with events from lantern parades to Santa runs taking place throughout the next few weeks. The entertainment will all begin on Thursday, with a lantern parade ahead of the town's big Christmas Lights switchon. The parade will start at Events Square at 5.45pm, before the lights come on following a ceremony at The Moor at 7pm. A whole host of Christmas events will then be held in town during the run up to the big day itself. On Saturday, December 8, there will be a Christmas Fair at the Brewery Yard off the Old High Street from 10am to
6pm, with gifts, mulled wine and roasted chestnuts just some of the goodies on offer. The following Saturday will see an invasion of up to 1,000 Father Christmases in the town centre streets when the annual Santa Run takes place. The race, held in aid of Cornwall Hospice Care, will start at The Moor at 1pm. The following day, Sunday, December 16, will see a live nativity play take place in the town centre. Starting at Events Square at 2pm, the play will see Mary, Joseph and a donkey make their way to The Moor, where there will be live animals including sheep,
goats and horses. Then, on Christmas Eve, the Cornish Harmony Choir will be singing carols at various locations in the town. Their first performance will take place at the Watersports Centre in Grove Place at 10.30am, before finishing at The Moor at 1pm. The traditional event has taken place in the town each Christmas for more than 100 years. There will also be late night shopping in the town each Thursday from next week, and a host of other events to enjoy throughout the period. For more details visit falmouth.co.uk
n A warm welcome is guaranteed at Miss Peapod’s
Award winning eco-cafe OVERLOOKING the river at Penryn Harbour, Miss Peapod's Kitchen Café is part of the award-winning Jubilee Wharf eco-development. Surrounded by local artists' studios, a bike workshop, a nursery and the ZedShed where regular yoga and pilates classes take place, there is always plenty of activity and friendly community vibe to get involved with! If that sounds too energetic, grab a local ale or fine wine and chill out on one of their cosy couches, or outside on the decking. Join them for an all-day breakfast or the best Sunday roast.
Their philosophy is simple - use the best of local produce and products to make delicious fresh food and drinks. Sourced with a priority to local, organic and fair-trade, they shamelessly flaunt sustainable principles from the award-winning menu to the second-hand floorboards. During the day they run a laidback café boasting comfy couches, free wi-fi, outdoor decking overlooking Penryn river and of course a cheery hello. Their delicious selection of cakes are homemade, coffee is ethically sourced by local family-owned
roastery Origin, breakfast is available all day. At night Miss Peapod’s steps up the pace with Friday night happy hour offering discounted prices on all drinks 6-7pm (which include local ales and organic spirits), DJs, film and food nights, stand-up comedy, random rave-ups! Saturday nights are reserved for their excellent line-up of live performers - nominated Best Small Venue 2011 in the NME awards, they've played host to everything from American freak folk to Swiss psychobilly surf rock and loved every minute!
TRURO has come alive for the festive season and is now counting down the days to Christmas with a mix of heart-warming events and late night shopping. The city kicked off the celebrations with the City of Lights procession and Christmas lights switch on a fortnight ago, with the traditional reindeer parade held last week. Businesses will now stay open for late night shopping every Wednesday, remaining open for business until 9pm each week until December 19. The streets will be filled with festive market stalls, entertainers, brass bands and carol singers, with the scent of mulled wine and hot chestnuts filling the air. Truro's cafes, bars and restaurants will be opening their doors to hungry n The shoppers and festive merry makers alike, with many offering special deals on their food and drink menus. This year Truro also has plans for “Truro Ice Rink” which, subject to planning permission, is due to open on Wednesday. Evenings there will be changes to the park and ride service, due to road closures being in place in the city centre
Truro City of Lights parade from 3pm on those days. This means that the pick up and drop off points for Truro Park & Ride will move to Calenick Street, rather than stopping at River Street and Victoria Square, from 3pm onwards on those Wednesdays. Service times remain unchanged by the move.
what’s on
LifeStyle
Call: 01326 213333
November 27, 2012
5
From trees to panto Balkan folk mayhem FROM pantomimes to carol services, there will be plenty of festive entertainment on offer in Falmouth this Christmas. The entertainment will get underway this weekend when the Amity Theatre performs Snow White at Falmouth Methodist Church. The play begins on Thursday, November 29 and runs for three nights. Tickets are £5 for adults and £3 for under16s either by calling 01326 316286 or from the church. An alternative panto will then be performed at The Poly on Church Street on Sunday, December 23 and daily from Thursday, December 27 to Sunday, December 30, when Miracle Theatre will put on Frankenstein. Tickets cost £12, with concessions £10, and can be booked by calling 01326 319461. On Sunday, December 16, the Salvation Army will host their traditional carol service in main hall, starting at 4.30pm. A spokesman for the event said: “A chance to join The Salvation Army and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas once again. “Come and sing along with many of your favourite carols, listen to the Band & Songsters choir and also the child singers. “The theme for the day will be ‘The Light Has Come’. “Proceeds from the carol service will be n used to support this year's chosen good causes which are, The Cardiomyopathy Association and The Salvation Army's, and Kalimpong Children's School for The Blind in India.” Tickets cost £3, and seating can be reserved in advance. On the following Tuesday there will be a special Christmas family celebration in the garden room at the venue, with choirs sung by candlelight. Tickets for the evening, which begins at 7.30pm, cost £3 for adults and £1.50 for children. The admission costs include a glass of
TICKETS are still available for an evening of Balkan folk mayhem at Miss Peadpod’s in Penryn. Sheelanagig have been a firm fixture on the festival circuit for many years, but are equally at home at smaller music venues and even on street corners. They have developed a devoted following with their energetic and irreverent live performances, combining elements of story-telling and street theatre with intricate and irresistibly danceable music. Sheelanagig’s origins lie in the now defunct Dartington College of Arts in Devon. Two band members moved to Bristol in 2004 and were keen to collaborate with all comers in the famously diverse and creative city. After meeting three other talented and eager musicians in the musical melting pot of Bristol, Sheelanagig began playing in every pub and club they could. An early gig review in Venue magazine described the band as “fresh and distinctive”,
The Christmas Tree Festival at All Saints Church mulled wine and a mince pie for parents, and an ice cream and glass of squash for the children. There will also be the not-to-be-missed Christmas Tree Festival, held annually in the All Saints Parish Church. This year’s event takes place daily from 10am to 7pm from Monday, December 17 to Monday, December 31, except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day. The church will be packed with specially decorated Christmas trees from across the globe.
Treat for heavy rock fans
DELIGHTING fans of AC/DC and ZZ Tops, the double-whammy tribute ‘For Those About to Rock’ blazes into Falmouth on Friday, December 7. Portraying the original members of both the Bon Scott and Brian Johnson eras of AC/DC, their current tour is said to be bigger, better and louder than ever with plenty of high voltage. Expect the classics like Whole Lotta Rosie, Highway to Hell and Back in Black, expect cannons, the backdrops, a wall of Marshalls and a rock-hard rhythm section. And if that wasn’t enough, there’s The ZZ
n A wide range of garage doors are available
Garage door specialists since 1986 CORNWALL Garage Door Centre based in Truro was founded in 1986 by Richard Simmonds, the first garage door specialist company in Cornwall. When Richard decided to retire the business was bought by Bill Osborne in January 2000. Bill originally from Falmouth had worked away from home, out of county, for many years, but felt with a young family the time had now come to settle back in his home county. Cornwall Garage Door Centre seemed the ideal venture as a well established local business with a good reputation. Cornwall Garage Door Centre
continued to grow and Julie, Bill’s wife, soon became involved as the demands of the business grew. They now employ Jackie full time in the office, three engineers and a full time surveyor. Cornwall Garage Door Centre is based in Newham, Truro, but covers the whole of Cornwall. In June 2011 the business expanded again and they moved into larger premises and have a large showroom where many different types of working models can be seen on display, including up and over, sectional and roller doors. They also have a large outdoor showsite displaying full size doors of all the Garador steel designs and
and noted that “what lifts them above most folk is their rhythmic variety and great imagination”. Sheelanagig are touring the UK in support of their new album Cirque Insomnia, their fourth release and the first to feature original songs alongside the band’s trademark manic instrumentalism. The group will play at Miss Peapod’s on Saturday, December 1, starting at 8pm. Tickets costing £8 are available online at wegottickets.com/misspeapods
colours. Cornwall Garage Door Centre have accounts with all the major garage door suppliers in the UK and can provide doors made from steel, Timber, GRP (fibre glass), ABS (Upvc) and aluminium. All types of doors including up and over, sectional and roller doors can be supplied, installed and repaired. Bill & Julie pride themselves on being a local company with an excellent after sales service, which continues to thrive despite the current economic climate. Call Cornwall Garage Door Centre on: 01872 275997 for all your garage door needs!
Tops. Formed to celebrate the music and career of one of the greatest rock n' roll bands of all time, this lil ol' band nails the look, the sound and the overall vibe of the Texas Trio with the beards, cheap sunglasses and fuzzy guitars, whilst they perform songs including, Sharp Dressed Man, Legs, Gimme All Your Lovin’ and of course the classic, Tush. Looks like a great night for lovers of classic rock. Starts 8pm. Standing. Advance Tickets £17.50 - available from the Pavilion box office on 01326 211222, or book online via SeeTickets and Hall for Cornwall.
6
November 27, 2012
reviews
Call: 01326 213333
LifeStyle
Why family means more than TV FORMER daytime TV presenter Judy Finnigan is relishing her new career as a novelist and life away from the cameras, Hannah Stephenson discovers. She talks about the late Caron Keating, who inspired her debut novel Eloise, her relationship with husband Richard Madeley and why she has no desire to return to TV. It must seem like home from home when Judy Finnigan settles down on the sofa for an interview only this time the spotlight's on her. Dressed in long blue cardigan and well-worn Birkenstocks, the former This Morning presenter, one half of the Richard and Judy partnership that lasted on screen for more than 20 years and has endured privately for 30, looks relaxed and happy. She's noticeably less gregarious than her ebullient husband, who can be heard chatting away in the corridor. Now 64, Finnigan has endured more than her fair share of cruel comments about her looks while, at eight years her junior, her husband Richard Madeley remains the Peter Pan of presenting, both in appearance and energy levels. However, switching to full-time writing seems a perfect move for Finnigan - it's something she can do privately at their homes in London, Cornwall and the south of France, which suits her well. Her debut novel, Eloise, is a ghost story-cum-thriller about Cathy, a woman whose best friend Eloise has just died from breast cancer, A devastated Cathy starts having disturbing dreams that imply there was more to Eloise's death than meets the eye. We discover that Cathy recently recovered from a nervous breakdown and has a history of depression, so her psychiatrist husband Chris is dubious when she tells him of her suspicions. The story was inspired by Finnigan's friend, the late TV presenter Caron Keating, Gloria
Album reviews Example The Evolution of Man SINGER-RAPPER Example, real name Elliot Gleave, has described his fourth studio album as a “rock album produced electronically” and its opening track Come Taste The Rainbow certainly fits that description, with its grinding guitar riffs and impending-doom vocals. Lead single Say Nothing is anthemic, radio-friendly pop and Perfect Replacement thunders along with squelchy synths. Working with big-name producers Benga, Dirty South, Alesso, Zane Lowe and DJ Tommy Trash, this album comfortably covers rock, pop and rap with intelligent, witty and, at times, vicious lyrics - all done with a confident swagger with tunes big enough to fill a stadium. Rating: 7/10 (Review by Lisa Allen)
n Judy Finnigan at a book signing in Falmouth earlier this month Hunniford's daughter, who died from breast cancer in 2004. “The emotional mood was inspired by Caron. After she was diagnosed she moved to Cornwall. We already had a house there and spent a lot of time together with our two families. It was very poignant,” recalls Finnigan. “Because Caron fought it successfully for so long, a few of us forgot she was ill. When it finally claimed her, it was still an awful shock. And because we still carried on going to Cornwall, every time I went I associated it strongly with Caron. “The sadness and the grief and the terrible fact that she'd died so young and left young children started me writing it, but then the rest is pure fiction.” Finnigan and Madeley go to Cornwall more frequently than they
App of the week
used to, which she says is one of the great joys of no longer being tied to daily television. “We'd finish work on a Friday night, drive down there, get there at midnight, but as soon as we got out and you could smell the sea, it was as if all the stresses of the week fell away. “We still feel that very strongly.” Because of commitments in London, they don’t live there permanently - Madeley frequently does fillin slots for Chris Evans on BBC Radio 2 and has just finished making a documentary for ITV which airs in December, while three of their four grown-up children still live at their home in the capital. Finnigan says she doesn't miss TV at all and no longer cares about it. “I'm so glad to not be doing it any more because it’s so all-consuming. We were never just presen-
DESPITE the surprising number of fishing apps available, this is one of the best on the market. You can fish in some of the most extreme waters of the world, from the American Lakes, Bahamas, Greenland and Tokyo. While in search of more than 60 different species of fish, you'll find a few surprises along the way. Plus you can buy the dedicated AppToyz fishing rod attachment for some extra fun.
n Eloise, by Judy Finnigan, is published by Sphere, priced £16.99. Available now
Books: What’s new? Havisham by Ronald Frame is published in hardback by Faber and Faber, priced £16.99 (£9.99 ebook). Available now.
Fish It - Free app on iTunes and Google Play
ters, rolling up, reading the autocue and going home, we were always very involved with the editorial content and who we'd interview. “It's exhilarating in one way, but totally draining in another because you never leave it behind. “You're always on the phone or in meetings. “After more than two decades of it we were both fed up with doing five days a week.” Family has always been her main focus. “I've been lucky that I've always been able to combine a career with Richard, because that's what's made it possible, being in the same place at the same time, able to get home and pick the kids up from school,” she explains.
FANS OF Charles Dickens's Great Expectations will find Ronald Frame's new novel a must-read. Starting with her early life, it tells the story of Catherine Havisham's privileged upbringing, from the moment she was born to the events that led her to become one of literature's most famous spinsters. During her early home life, she lives with constant reminders of her family's business, and the good name the Havisham brewery has gained. But it is when she is sent by her father to stay with the Chadwycks that she really discovers life's riches and all the things she has been kept from. Has this fresh awakening come too late? And how will the arrival of love in her life toy with her heart and threaten the very name Havisham? Frame masterfully unlocks the untold story of one of Dickens's most famous and iconic characters. Rating: 8/10 (Review by Philip Robinson)
The Gingerbread House by Carin Gerhardsen is published in hardback by Stockholm Text, priced £12.99 (ebook £6.99). Available now. THIS IS the first novel from the six-part Hammarby Series, published by the same team that introduced Stieg Larsson's The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo to readers across the world. Author Carin Gerhardsen weaves a complex tale that confuses and teases the reader throughout. It's a dark crime novel that bounces between the intense bullying that the murderer was subjected to at a formative age and the constant game of catch-up for the Stockholm-based team of investigators. Detective Chief Inspector Conny Sjoberg is brought in when a dead body is discovered by an elderly woman. Soon the body count starts to rise, with no apparent way to link them. Slowly the team members start to put the pieces together in a story that benefits from being read in one or two long sittings. Rating: 7/10 (Review by Rachel Howdle)
Various Artists - Breaking Dawn pt 2 - The Soundtrack BIG NAMES have been assembled for the soundtrack of the hit film series' final instalment, including Green Day, Christina Perri, Feist, St Vincent and Ellie Goulding. The (largely) female teenage audience of Twilight's vampire love saga has predetermined the album's tone, so there is plenty of emo, atmospheric string arrangements and breathy, earnest vocals. Ghosts by James Vincent McMorrow is gorgeously haunting, and St Vincent rocks everything up with distorted guitars on punky The Antidote. POP ETC and The Boom Circuits throw in electronica but A Boy And His Kite's ballad Cover Your Tracks is an unexpected gem. Beautiful instrumental Plus Que Ma Propre Vie, composed by Carter Burwell, gives a neat finish to this surprisingly satisfying collection. Rating: 7/10 (Review by Natalie Bowen)
Neil Young and Crazy Horse Psychedelic Pill THE RAGGED rock genius's first album of new material with his long-time collaborators in nearly a decade is, at first, a daunting proposition, with the opening track clocking in at almost 30 minutes, while two 16minute epics lurk on the double-disc tracklist. Driftin' Back is classic Crazy Horse, all loose, hypnotic riffing and soloing, but the Canadian singer's rants about MP3s and hip-hop haircuts interjecting the jam session become tiresome over its length. Ramada Inn is excellent. A heartbreaking study of an ageing couple's fading dreams, Young's solos are long, meandering and fraught with emotion. Elsewhere, the title track is ruined by phaser-style effects, while nostalgic one-two of Born In Ontario and Twisted Road provide light-hearted thrills. Rating: 7/10 (Review by Arj Singh)
gifts
LifeStyle
Call: 01326 213333
November 27, 2012
7
Gifts to make her Christmas one to remember
Show the woman in your life how much you care with one of the gorgeous festive gifts featured in this round-up;
n Cosy comfort
n Melt in the mouth
Need a gift for a stylish female and have no idea where to start? This on-trend winter knit should do the job.
Christmas is all about indulgence and any chocoholics will squeal with excitement at the sight of La Maison du Chocolat's Christmas Star. Made with dark chocolate and crystallised nut pieces, it can actually stand on its points. Not that it'll be pointy for long. Christmas Star, £28, La Maison du Chocolat lamaisonduchocolat.co.uk
People Tree Sausage Dog Jumper, £95, Amazon amazon.co.uk
n Warm up for winter
n Beautiful bracelet This dainty porcelain owl bracelet is sure to please any younger females you might need to buy for, and will look pretty dressed up or down.
A snugly gilet is always a good buy at Christmas time, and this bright colour will cheer up any grey morning. Gemma Gilet, £72, Fat Face fatface.com and stores nationwide
Porcelain Owl Charm Glass Bead Bracelet, £39, Dana Levy danalevy.co.uk
n Beauty brilliance
Elemis creams can truly work wonders on 'mature' skin ("Wrinkles? What wrinkles?!"). This travel set contains some cult classics and has everything you need to take away with you, all tucked into in a stylish bag. The Ultimate Travel Collection, £68, Elemis (available from timetospa.co.uk and selected John Lewis stores)
n Watch it... A beautiful timepiece will never fail to please and this Kyboe! rose gold design is sure to turn heads. Kyboe! Rose Gold Series Black Watch, £225, GiftLibrary.com gift-library.com n Santa's new boots
n Delectable digits
Gloves are so easy to come by, yet so easy to lose too. Buy her a beautiful leather pair she'll want to keep forever. Cross Stitch Leather Gloves, £45, Celtic Sheepskin 01637 871 605; celtic-sheepskin.co.uk
n Always handy
If you're looking for a small but lovely gift, you can't go wrong with this sweetsmelling hand wash and lotion set by Joules. Joules Hunky Dory Hand Care Kit, £10, Boots boots.com and stores across the country
Wellington Boots might seem boringly practical, but when they're adorned with the Hunter logo, they're almost as exciting as a new handbag. And after such a great British year, these Union Jack wellies are sure to raise a smile. Hunter Original British Flag Design Wellies in Dark Navy (also available in Pewter), £99.99, The Welly Shop thewellyshop.com
n Snow stylish
Soft, snugly and so perfect for winter, this Barbour scarf ticks all the boxes. Barbour Women's Tattersall Check Red Lambswool Scarf, £28, Van Mildert vanmildert.com
n Singin' in the rain
She can stride out in bad weather in serious style, thanks to this beautiful umbrella by Radley. Anne Walker Umbrella, £28, Radley radley.co.uk and stores nationwide *All prices correct at time of going to press
8
November 27, 2012
Call: 01326 213333
LifeStyle
LifeStyle
competition
Call: 01326 213333
November 27, 2012
Win a natural Head in Heaven treatment ENTER the Sanctuary of the Budock Vean natural health spa and it will change your spa expectations for ever. Dedicated to relaxation, rejuvenation and well being, this intimate spa offers organic, pure, effective treatments. From a suite of three treatment rooms, the experienced team of therapists deliver relaxing health and beauty treatments, using specialised techniques or promote natural well being. The treatments and products used include Elemis who are renowned for their award winning skin care, Jessica so nails are cared for to perfection and also locally produced Spezia 100% organic range that are created make you feel fantastic inside and out. The treatment menu offers an extensive range of relaxation and perfecting treatments which can be tailored to individuals needs. WIN a Head in Heaven treatment at the Natural Health Spa, Budock Vean Hotel. Simply answer the following. How many treatment rooms does the natural health spa have? Answers to carley.savage@packetseries.co.uk by Dec 7.
9
10
November 27, 2012
Call: 01326 213333
LifeStyle views
n The beauty of Kennal Vale Picture:Ted Schofield
LifeStyle
Send your pictures for publication to: editorial@packetseries.co.uk
LifeStyle
LifeStyle views
n Falmouth’s seafront at sunset Picture: Jo Trevelyan
what’s on
Call: 01326 213333
November 27, 2012
11
Send your pictures for publication to: editorial@packetseries.co.uk
12
November 27, 2012
Call: 01326 213333
fashion
LifeStyle
Put some sparkle into the Christmas party RIVAL the Christmas tree with some festive sparkle this Christmas. Here, Lisa Haynes shows you how to dazzle in this season's partywear. DON'T even think about pulling out your trusty LBD this party season. There's far too much in the way of decadence, glitz and sparkle adorning the rails to resist. Even the traditional party dress is vying for attention with jaw-dropping maxi gowns, statement suiting and even dress coats that work for dancefloor and outdoors. This season, partywear is made for anti-wallflowers so don't go for half measures. “Every woman needs the ‘wowzer’ dress,” says Marios Schwab, Edition designer at Debenhams. “It's not about trends. It’s about what looks interesting and at the same time makes her feel totally gorgeous.” Whether you want to rock some baroque, go mad for metallics or indulge in sequin overdose, 'tis the season to be outrageously OTT.
rich jewel tones. The plusher the backdrop the better, so look for crushed velvet or glamorous satin. This is one trend where overaccessorising is perfectly acceptable so team with regal bling and a statement bag.
Metallic Medley Gold, silver, or bronze; now's the time to really celebrate Team GB's medal tally with your favourite metal. Metallics are the most decadent party colour palette. Because the material is highgloss, keep the silhouette clean and sleek to really outshine the competition. Separates are having a moment right now, so seek out a dress coat in pewter or gold that doubles up as both a cover-up and a dress when done up. Metallic cropped trousers will also look red hot teamed with pointy toe heels for their leg lengthening powers. Shiny or matte, leather is a surprise hit in metallic tones if you're looking for a rock chick edge with a hint of bling.
flattering look as sequins can add bulk to your frame. To achieve a tinsel effect, try super-sizing your sequins. Focus on separates like a top or skirt if you want to shimmer with subtlety. Low-key not in your vocabulary? Look for a dress with bold circular paillettes (spangles) in a bright gem colour to really make a statement. Swap sequins for intricate shimmering beading to channel Gatsby glamour. Think Twenties chic with a flapper dress that will swing as you show off your Charleston.
Lace Lambada
As the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton has proved so often, lace is a classic fabric for evening chic. But if you want to move away from super-safe black, inject a sprinkle of Christmas magic with festive reds, golds and sapphire blues. Contrasting materials and fabrics like flirty feathers will Baroque 'N' Roll ensure you look dancefloor-ready. Stand aside minimalists, excess and Also look to necklines and exuberance are this season's buzz sleeves with eye-catching embelS p a r k l e S a m b a words. lished details for lace with the fesReturn to an era of opulent luxury tive trimmings. Give the festive disco balls some with Baroque period-inspired pieces This season, the matchycompetition in sequins. Don't look that flaunt intricate embroidery, ornate matchy trouser suit is the anti-leg to the Strictly Come Dancing conbrocade and gilded embellishment. baring answer to party frocks. testants for inspiration; this look is A lustrous black and gold colourLook for a lace or lace print more glitterati than glitzy. way dominates the Baroque trend two-piece for an edgy take on Guarantee yourself a sparkling making this the ideal update for those Christmas outfit traditions. n Fleur De Lys gold skirt, £35; jumper, entrance in a floor sweeping sequin who can't give up their LBD habit. Killer heels are the essential gown. £35 and necklace, £10, Awear If you want to opt for colour, think Choose a darker colour like black, n Coast Va Va sequin maxi gown, £395 accessory if you're taking on this (www.awear.com) flocked fabrics and damask prints in glam tux look. gunmetal or deep purple for a more (www.coast-stores.com)
LifeStyle
Call: 01326 213333
November 27, 2012
13
14
November 27, 2012
Call: 01326 213333
LifeStyle
LifeStyle
Call: 01326 213333
November 27, 2012
15
16
November 27, 2012
Call: 01326 213333
LifeStyle
LifeStyle
Call: 01326 213333
November 27, 2012
17
18
November 27, 2012
LifeStyle
Call: 01326 213333
Stories of giants and mystical beings EVER since the early Victorian times it has been traditional to share ghost stories or tales of legends in the lead up to Christmas. Here in Cornwall our Celtic roots join us to many such stories of spirits, giants and mystical beings. In fact the “Yuletime� Season is a time of death and rebirth of the soul and of the sun, with the old Sun dying on the 21st December and the birth of the Sun of the New Year at dawn on the 22nd of December. Every fortnight we will bring you a tale of Myth, Mystery & Magic from the Legend of Cornwall and where better to start on these cold windy nights then the tale of Jan Tregeagle. Jan Tregeagle was a real person, a very wealthy magistrate in the early part of the 17th Century, and was known locally for being an harsh and evil man, pursuing many of the tenants of his land relentlessly, which lent him well to the development of many dark stories. He had supposedly made a pact with the devil after murdering his wife, child and sister and stealing his immense wealth from an orphan he was representing. On his death the devil claimed his soul; however during a later court case his ghost appeared after being summoned as a witness to help one of his former tenants. After testifying in favour of the tenant the local clergy thought it unchristen like to allow the demons to take him back to hell so instead set him some impossible tasks to keep him occupied until judgement day, since the spirit couldn't leave the earthly plain if it was carrying out chores. His first task was to empty the water out of Dozmary Pool with a leaking limpet shell. Dozmary Pool was thought to be bottomless after a thorn bush that was thrown into it was seen floating in Falmouth Harbour some weeks later. This task came to an end when Tregeagle tried to escape and was chased by demons to a little chapel on Roche Rock, pictured top right, where he became jammed head first. The clergy
set him free and gave him another task, this time to weave a truss and rope out of sand on the beach of Gwenvor Cove near Sennen. This task too came to an end during a cold frosty night when the water froze in the sand allowing Tregeagle to complete both the truss and the rope. St Petroc was then summoned and he bound Tregeagle with a massive chain and dragged him to Helston. Here Tregeagle was set the task of carrying the sand from Berepper to Porthleven, until only rock remained at Berepper beach. St Petroc thought this task to be impossible since every tide would sweep the sand back again. But one night the huge sack that Tregeagle was carrying split open depositing all the sand, which dammed up the stream and formed Loe Bar, which you can visit to this day near Helston. Tregeagle was finally taken to Land's End, where he was set the task to sweep all the sand from Porthcurno Cove around the headland into Mill Bay, a task which he is still carrying out to this day. If you listen to the wind during a gale, anywhere in Cornwall, you can hear him roaring and moaning at the hopelessness of his task. Hence the Cornish saying "The wind is blowing like Tregeagle"
LifeStyle
Call: 01326 213333
November 27, 2012
19
20
November 27, 2012
Call: 01326 213333
motoring
LifeStyle
First drive: Audi A1 Sportback I WOULDN'T go as far as to say I'm a religious person, but I am a born-again motorist, writes Iain Dooley. In a good way, I might add. The combination of wanting to better previous fuel consumption figures and the need to be extremely well behaved after the intervention of Her Majesty's Constabulary meant that rather than dashing across the country as quickly as (ahem) legally possible, I've been cruising, pootling and maintaining a general mood of steadiness over the last 1,000 miles or so. That might sound like a recipe for middle-lane snoozing, but in actual fact I've been arriving at my destinations far less stressed than before and often only a few minutes later than if I'd been trying a lot harder. And although this A1 wears the Sport tag that delivers stiffer suspension as well as bigger wheels, it's been more than happy to play along. The S tronic gearbox gives a lovely tall seventh gear, and although a motorway incline tackled with just a sniff of throttle usually means a single downshift for the most part it will hum along with around 2,000rpm on the rev counter at the legal limit. If there's one further wish to be granted it
would be for cruise control, but frankly that was an omission from the options list on my part rather than the fault of the car. Silly me. I've also been trying hard to keep the A1's cabin de-cluttered, the only problem being is that it is rather good at swallowing it in the first place. The front cupholders are almost always occupied, swiftly followed by the one in the driver's door. Even with a cup in there you can still stuff plenty of crisp packets and parking tickets in the space behind it, and the packet of biscuits that are kept on standby as emergency snacks for the kids has stayed untouched in the armrest cubby for several months on the trot. Anything A4-shaped (paper, not the car) is an arm's length away in the pocket on the back of the passenger seat, and the space underneath the boot floor has housed emergency wellies and an umbrella without a problem. Small it may be but the A1 has swallowed everything I have reasonably asked of it, and sometimes a bit more. I'm also more in love with its looks than ever. Lots of armchair experts are keen to predict the end of white as a fashionable colour for cars,
but this A1 is still turning heads as well as making me turn and look wistfully at it as I lock and walk away. I've been extra good and treated it to a personal wash and a proper spruce-up at the hands of someone who really knows what they're doing, and although it's fun to give the local kids the opportunity to write rude messages in the dirt it positively zings when it is immaculately clean. And behaving myself on the road means it stays clean for longer too. Next to a three-door A1 with a bodykit installed it looks a little plainer, but it sits nicely in the space between discreet and posh. A sporty coupe version would look the absolute business. The parcel shelf attachments, so often the first thing to fall off with heavy use, remain stubbornly in place and doing their job. All the buttons and switches still operate with the same slickness and robust feeling as they did on day one, and despite having almost everything thrown at them the seats and their fabric trim have shrugged off numerous stains. It might not look like a family car at first but it's fit and ready for the job. And when I very
occasionally allow myself a bit of fun on a deserted back road it still dives into bends with aplomb. The 1.4-litre TFSI petrol unit has a useful wodge of torque low down but happily revs high up too, feeling much like a larger-capacity naturally aspirated engine. It's also a pleasure to give the gearshift paddles a workout, and the sports suspension comes into its own. Time is almost up for the A1 and although it's a month away from heading off into the sunset, I'm already starting to miss it. There'll be some kind of replacement to follow it but unless it's the Batmobile or Schumacher's championshipwinning Ferrari I can't help thinking I'll be wishing the A1 was still here. n Facts at a glance Audi A1 Sportback 1.4 TFSI Sport, ÂŁ17,680 list, ÂŁ20,085 as tested Engine: 1.4-litre petrol producing 120bhp and 147lb.ft of torque Transmission: Seven-speed dual clutch gearbox driving the front wheels Performance: Top speed 126mph, 0-62mph in 9.0 seconds Economy: 53.3mpg combined (official)
LifeStyle
Call: 01326 213333
November 27, 2012
21
22
November 27, 2012
Call: 01326 213333
LifeStyle
LifeStyle
gadgets/recipes
Call: 01326 213333
November 27, 2012
23
Hot stuff to keep you glowing in the cold THE seasonal shift in weather is well under way but don't be downbeat. Instead, let's embrace it. While you bundle away your summer clothes and dig out the chunky knitwear, LifeStyle has searched out six gadgets to help you beat the cold.
Eastern Promise - Samurai Umbrella £19.95 from red5.co.uk Sling this over your shoulder in the supplied sheath, perhaps even secreted under your overcoat, then reveal your defence system at the first sign of precipitation. It all sounds fairly dramatic, but why not? This shield is perfect for doing battle with the rain and it comes with a push button release and detailed hilt.
Feet Heat - Outback Battery-heated Socks - £17.99 from iwantoneofthose.com In the battle against cold feet, the gadget gods have created these unisex heated socks they're radiators for the feet. Inside each is a heating element that'll keep your toes toasty up to 39C. With the socks staying cosy and warm for four to five hours, there's plenty of time for a decent hike, or to sit on the sofa and watch a couple of films.
Stay Upright - Nordic Mini Ice Grippers - £7.99 from iwantoneofthose.com Slipping on the snow and ice might make for some amusing video footage but it really is a pain in the posterior. To ensure you're not a victim of a seasonal
trip, use these grippers on the front of your shoes; each one has a pair of metal studs to help you walk on slippery surfaces more safely. They're available in a choice of four colours, so you should find a pair to match your footwear.
n Outback battery heated socks
Digit Warmer - Touchscreen Mittens £39.99 from iwantoneofthose.com
n Digit Warmer touchscreen mittens
The trouble with smartphones and tablets is that these touchscreen devices are rendered near useless unless you can tap directly on the screen. These handwarmers have a pull-back mitten top that reveals a glove underneath with the fingertips equipped with touchscreen technology, so you can tap away and keep your extremities warm.
Just Add Water - Warm Up Soles £12.99 from iwantoneofthose.com After a single charge, these shoe inserts will provide up to 35 minutes-worth of foot-warming relief. And to reactive, just boil them in water for 10 minutes. The soles will mould to your feet and they can be reused up to 100 times.
n Just Add Water warm up soles
n The Firm Favourite Slanket
Firm Favourite - The Slanket - £24.99 from firebox.com
n Nordic mini ice grippers
A hybrid of a blanket and a dressing gown, this is a mighty fine way to cover up and keep warm. Comfier than a bathtub full of cotton wool, these oversized fleece covers keep your entire body enveloped in what can only be described as a great big cuddle.
n Eastern Promise samurai umbrella
Meaty recipes for some real winter warmth WITH the colder weather arriving, try out these warming winter meat dishes:
Slow-cooked beef with gnocchi (Serves 4)
Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan. Cook the beef for 4-5 minutes in batches until brown on all sides. Transfer to a 1.7l/3pint heatproof casserole pot. In the same frying pan, cook the onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes. Spoon into the casserole pot. Add the tomatoes and stock, cinnamon, sugar and tomato puree. Bring this to the boil, reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 2-2½ hours. Add the gnocchi 10 minutes before the end of the cooking time. Garnish with the parsley and serve with crusty bread. Tip: If preferred, substitute the gnocchi for freshly cooked pasta shapes. *Recipe from www.simplybeefandlamb.com
Slow-cooked Shoulder of lamb (Serves 6) 450g lean boneless shin or chuck steak, cut into 2.5cm cubes Salt and freshly milled black pepper ½tsp cayenne pepper 1tsp paprika 2tbsp sunflower oil 1 large onion, peeled and chopped 2 large garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped or crushed 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes 200ml good, hot vegetable stock 1 cinnamon stick, halved 1tbsp light brown sugar 1tbsp tomato puree 1 x 400g pack fresh gnocchi 2tbsp freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley, to garnish Place the beef in a large plastic food bag. Add the seasoning, cayenne and paprika; seal, shake well to coat the beef in the spices.
1 whole shoulder of lamb (1.75kg) Salt and pepper 2tsp olive oil 20g butter 250g mushrooms 1 onion (chopped) 4 cloves of garlic (sliced) 2 sprigs fresh rosemary 6 sprigs fresh or dried lavender 5 tomatoes (cut into wedges) 125ml white wine 250ml chicken or beef stock Allow the meat to come to room temperature. Preheat the oven to 140°C/285°F/Gas 1.
Season the lamb shoulder with salt and pepper. Preheat a large, flame-proof braising pan. Add oil and butter and brown the meat on all sides until nicely caramelized. Remove the meat from the pan and leave to the side. Add mushrooms, onions and garlic and braise for 5-8 minutes. Return the meat to the pan. Add all the remaining ingredients to the pan and bring to the boil. Cover with the lid and place into the oven and cook for 2½ - 3 hours. After 2½ hours test the meat. It should be tender and sticky. When the meat is tender remove the pan from oven. Place the lamb on a warm serving platter and allow to rest for up to 20 minutes. Remove the remaining pan ingredients and arrange around the meat for a nice presentation. Use the delicious juices to make a gravy. To serve carve the meat straight from the bone and arrange on preheated plates. Serve with green beans and potato gratin. *Recipe from Donald Russell (www.donaldrus sell.com)
Spiced rib of beef with red wine gravy (Serves 8-10) Cooking time: Rare: 20 minutes per 450g/1lb plus 20 minutes Medium: 25 minutes per 450g/1lb plus 25 minutes Well done: 30 minutes per 450g/1lb plus 30 minutes 1 x 2.7kg lean boneless rib of beef, sirloin or traditional rump roast
Salt and freshly milled black pepper 2tsp ground allspice 2tsp ground mace 1tsp ground nutmeg 40g light soft brown sugar 3tbsp port For the red wine gravy: 1tbsp plain flour 300ml good, hot beef stock 300ml good red wine Preheat the oven to 180-190°C. In a small bowl mix the spices and sugar together. Place the joint on a chopping board; make several slashes over the surface of the joint, taking care not to cut the butcher's string or elasticated meat bands and season. Coat on both sides with the spice mixture. Place the joint on a rack in a roasting tin and open roast for the preferred, calculated cooking time. Cover with foil if browning too quickly. Ten minutes before the end of the cooking time, remove the joint from the oven and brush with the port. Return to the oven for the remainder of the cooking time. Remove the beef from the oven, cover and leave to rest for 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile, to make the gravy; spoon off any excess fat from the roasting tin and discard. Place the tin over a medium heat and sprinkle with the flour. Stir well with a small whisk or spoon, add a little stock and stir again, scraping the base of the pan to release any rich, beefy sediment. Add the remaining stock, wine and any meat juices from the platter. Adjust the seasoning, if required and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally or until reduced to a well-flavoured gravy. Strain before serving. Garnish the beef with fresh rosemary leaves and serve with seasonal vegetables and the gravy. *Recipe from www.simplybeefandlamb.com
24
November 27, 2012
Call: 01326 213333
LifeStyle
LifeStyle
Call: 01326 213333
November 27, 2012
25
26
November 27, 2012
Call: 01326 213333
gardening
LifeStyle
Great gifts for a green fingered Christmas WITH Christmas just around the corner, Hannah Stephenson looks at some of the best presents on offer for the green-fingered this Christmas:
n National Gardens Scheme 2013 Yellow Book (£9.99, NGS, www.ngs.org.uk): Anyone who enjoys visiting gardens during the year will appreciate this guide to more than 3,800 gardens which will open on behalf of the charity. The recipient will be sent their new edition in February hot off the press.
UNDER A FIVER n Cupcake Stakes (Poundland, £1 each, available in stores nationwide. Stockists 0800 731 5622): If the gardener likes quirky ornaments, they can brighten up a container or perk up a border with these colourful cupcake stakes in a variety of colours and styles. Bound to create a talking point among guests. n Novelty Kneepad (£4.99, www.gettingpersonal.co.uk): Ideal for green-fingered friends and family, a practical gift with a fun twist. Place the foam kneepad down anywhere in the garden and save those aching knees. Available with a range of novelty phrases. UNDER £10 n myBunjee (£6.95, Perennial charity, http://shop.perennial.org.uk): The national horticulture charity Perennial is offering this new device which fits on to any mobile phone handset and features an extendable cord that clips
UNDER £20 n Enamel Herb Pots In A Tray (£14.95, Burgon & Ball): Keep favourite kitchen herbs to hand this to your bag, coat or belt loop, allowing you to keep your phone close and safe while you are in the garden or elsewhere. Funky colours include hot pink, lime green and black. All profits go to Perennial, the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Society. n Mr Turf (£6.99-£8.99, www.thebalconygardener.com/020 7431 5553): If your man's pedantic about his lawn, this may be the ideal stocking-filler for his desk. Mr Turf is a ceramic figure with a head full of grass, just seep him in water for an hour and then water every one to two days to watch his hair grow. He comes in five different designs and is only 8cm tall. Ideal for an office desk, windowsill or coffee table.
n Decorative Enamel Watering Can (£17, National Trust online shop at http://shop.nationaltrust.org.uk): Traditional garden design meets contemporary graphic styling in renowned British illustrator Sally Elford's watering can. It was inspired by the gardens at Emmetts and Wakehurst Place and with a nod to Fibonacci numbers. n Piazza Decorative Planter (from £14.99 to £19.99, available in good garden centres and DIY stores, visit www.stewart-garden.co.uk): New from Stewart, these easy-to-move, lightweight stone-effect planters look great in both contemporary and traditional settings. UNDER £30 n Willow Gift Basket (£24.99, Thompson & Morgan, www.giftstm.com, 0844 573 6011):
Christmas in these stylish and contemporary pots. They're pre-printed with basil, parsley and thyme but any label can be slotted into the window. Available in Jersey Cream and Lime Green. n Aged Ceramic Bird Bath (£18.50, www.thebalconygardener.com/020 7431 5553): This decorative blue and white patterned birdbath will not only benefit your feathered friends but is easy on the eye too.
What to do in the garden this week: n Shorten hybrid tea roses and floribundas to reduce the damage from windrock. n Cut back a third of the summer's growth on hardy fuchsias, leaving the remaining bare stems as protection over the winter. n Complete the pruning of bush fruits as soon as practicable, remembering to leave late-fruiting raspberries until February. n If carrying out late turfing, protect the ground to be worked on and any stacked turf, or frost may prevent the job. n When staking trees, place the stake on the side which receives the prevailing wind, so that the stem is blown away from the stake and the bark is less likely to be damaged. n Increase stocks of winter jasmin, Jasminum nudiflorum, by taking cuttings now and inserting them in a cold frame. n After putting this year's lifted dahlias away for the winter, check next year's requirements and order fresh stock.
This yummy hamper is packed with luxury goodies, from old-fashioned traditional recipe biscuits and preserves to creamy fudge. Each product is made in the UK from the finest natural ingredients and presented in a reusable woven basket finished with a satin ribbon.
n Have a good weeding session to catch as many as you can before they start growing again in spring. n Continue to plant tulips at around three times their own depth of soil, as shallow planting can cause them to fail.
LifeStyle
27