Ex March 2014

INSIDE:FASHION:FOOD:DRINKS:ARTS:INTERIORS:LIFESTYLE:TRAVEL:FITNESS:BEAUTY:PROPERTY: SOCIETY SNAPS

EX The magazine for Exeter

MEET THE MAKERS Behind the scenes at Young & Norgate

Issue No 17 March 2014

NIGHT & DAY

Artigiano, the High Street chameleon

Electric & eclectic Exeter Open Studios returns for its eighth year

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Pages of spring weddings

Flour power

Join Paul Hollywood for a slice of The BIG Cake Show action

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Biggest Cake Show Ever in the South West

Coming to Westpoint!

Mary Berr

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©Gem Hall Photography

©Tim James/Mabel Gray

Mich Turner MBE

Paul Hollywood Stacie

John Whaite

Jo Wheatley

Stewa

MasterChef Finalist

Phil Vickery

rt

Edd Kimber

Winners of TV’s Biggest Baking Show

ow.com

kesh www.thebigca

28th, 29th & 30th March 2014 Check out our website and follow us on Facebook & Twitter

EX Welcome to the March issue of EX, the magazine for Exeter

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INSIDE:FASHION:FOOD:DRINKS:ARTS:INTERIORS:LIFESTYLE:TRAVEL:FITNESS:bEAuTY:pROpERTY: SOcIETY SNApS

EX

Issue No 17 March 2014

The magazine for Exeter

ON THE COVER: Cover star: Paul Hollywood Photo: Gem Hall Photography

Spring approaches, what will you do with the first (relatively) balmy and dry day?

Publisher: Michelle Pugh 01392 442454 mpugh@exmagazine.co.uk ‘A long run and a walk on the beach with my girls, happy days! ’ Sales manager: Kelly Sheath mpugh@exmagazine.co.uk ‘Stroll along the river with the family... rewarding myself with alcohol at the Double Locks!’

SALES TEAM: 01392 667515 info@exmagazine.co.uk Julie Radford 'I will go for a long cliff walk and wipe away the horrible winter days ’ Nina Theodoulou ‘A lovely coastal walk, followed by a pub lunch!’

Mark Watson ‘Take my wife out for a short walk in the sunshine’ Kerri Smith ‘I will finally get to try out my new telescope’ Alexandra Davidson ‘Clean the windows!’

Nick Powers ‘Go fishing on my boat’ Stuart Tolley ‘Golf, golf and probably a bit more golf after that! FORE!’ Mark Davitt ‘Get out on the golf course! Getting the DTs now with all this rain' Dru Durman ‘Head up to the local hillfort for some long overdue combat training' EDITORIAL TEAM: 01392 442242 Sue Kemp skemp@exmagazine.co.uk ‘Get out in the garden and start pulling up some weeds’ Anita Merritt amerritt@exmagazine.co.uk ‘Go shopping for some new spring clothes then put my feet up with a pint of Devon cider in a pub garden. Heaven!’

Fran McElhone fmcelhone@exmagazine.co.uk ‘An all-day bike ride (on the mountain bike or motorbike depending on how energetic I’m feeling)’ DESIGN Kathryn Clarke-McLeod ‘Pack some Victoria sponge, a flask of tea, my wetsuit and boards, and go find some surf’ Bridget Batchelor ‘Taking Titch, my new vintage Mini, for a lovely long drive – sunshine makes her happy!’

PHOTOGRAPHY Matt Austin ‘Start my Christmas shopping’ Gareth Williams ‘Today I'm going to go for a walk with my children across the estuary front where I live in Starcross; the sun's out right now, let's hope it here to stay!’

DISTRIBUTION Mike Evans 01392 442437 ‘Celebrate by taking a long bike ride over Dartmoor!’

PROMOTIONS 01752 765500

Become a fan on Facebook

inally there’s the feeling of spring in the air but it isn’t the smell of fresh flowers and the longer days that’s getting me excited.

What’s put a spring in my step is the arrival of the first ever BIG Cake Show to Exeter this March and the promise of the most delicious cakes you could ever hope to taste, along with celebrity appearances from the likes of Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry.

The three-day event is being held at Westpoint and there will also be some familiar faces from Devon, including Great British Bake Off contestant Glenn Cosby, a teacher from Teignmouth who has made some interesting cooking revelations in our What You Should Know About Me feature.

The onset of spring brings with it lots of hopes and plans for the rest of year, and they don’t get much bigger than organising a wedding. EX has put together a guide for brides and grooms to achieve the perfect Devon wedding.

As usual the city is also packed with exciting events over the next few months including shopping fun at Princesshay with its Treat Yourself and We’ll Treat You event; a charity John Lewis fashion show in Exmouth; the return of Exeter Open Studios; and the annual Vibraphonic Festival.

If there’s one date you don’t want to forget it’s Mother’s Day, and EX has its very own gift guide to help you. We’ll also help you give your house a spring make-over with advice from interior designer Lesley Taylor, and a behind-the-scenes look inside the workshop of contemporary handcrafted furniture makers Young & Norgate.

They reveal how the base ingredients of its furniture is passion and a good amount of graft, together with a healthy dose of perfectionism.

And that’s why they have become one of the most renowned furniture makers in the UK. Anita Merritt

Follow us on Twitter @EXMagExeter

EX online

exeterexpressandecho.co.uk/EXMagazine

Produced by:

EX is distributed throughout the city centre and beyond. Here is some of the main outlets you can pick up a copy of the magazine: Tesco Exe Vale • Sainsbury’s Pinhoe • Sainsbury’s Alphington • Exeter Central Station • Exeter Airport • Exeter City Council • St David’s Station • County Hall Exeter • Exeter Northcott Theatre • Exeter Corn Exchange • Exeter Phoenix • Westpoint • Exmouth Pavilion • Exeter City Football Club • Exeter Racecourse • Royal Albert Memorial Museum • Escot • Poltimore House • Woodbury Park • Exeter Golf and Country Club • RD&E • Gloss Art • Cafe Rouge • Cafe Nero • Costa Coffee • Starbucks • McGahey’s Cafe • Ferns Cafe • Tea on the Green • The Cafe, Topsham • Oddfellows • Vive Juice Bar, Guildhall • Sidmouth Garden Centre Cafe • Darts Farm

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CONTENTS EX March 2014

ISSUE NO.17

68

46

What’s on & Who is who 06 16

18 20

The month ahead What’s on this month, whether you’re staying in or going out Something wicked this way comes Shakespeare’s Macbeth is brought to life in Beer Quarry Caves by Four Of Swords What you should know about me Great British Bake Off contestant Glenn Cosby On top of the world Neil Rushton, Cullompton GP and adventurer

Wedding season special 40 42 44 46 48 51

Fashion, beauty, health 36 38

Fashion diary Princesshay’s late night event and John Lewis’ fashion show Mothers day gift guide The best mums deserve the best treats

Prepare to be moved Pirouette’s charm rivals that of its historic landmark premises Love a fair? Our round-up of the seasons best wedding fairs A sophisticated start Gemini Taxi’s silverliveried fleet will get you to church on time Happily ever after starts here The Bridal Emporium’s two decades of magic Big day beauty Top preening picks Wake up tired eyes Dr Ros Debenham’s top tips for looking wide awake

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56 61 62 75

Social diary Out and about with the city’s movers and shakers Matt Austin Images A month through the lens of one of Devon’s best photographers When body meets soul Why the new Mazda 3 has the makings of a champion Swish splash Lesley Taylor on why your bathroom should be your next renovation project

Food & drink 24 28

The odd couple Oddfellows gastro pub and cocktail lounge’s enduring appeal Oriental delight Becky Sheaves finds an oasis of calm and great taste at Jasmine Thai

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38 04

Art, interiors and property

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Let us make your perfect day more perfect

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62 On the cover 68

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Meet the makers Meet the men behind award-winning handcrafted furniture company Young & Norgate Light and dark Perfection, day or night, at Artigiano coffee and wine bar Electric and eclectic Exeter Open Studios and an interview with Ben Yates It’s showtime Cake lovers brace themselves for a baking extravaganza

Rings & things at: 24 Sidwell St.Exeter 01392 272228. or 154 Cowick St.Exeter 01392 422847

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THE MONTH AHEAD EX highlights this month’s must-dos... whether you’re staying in or going out

MUSIC Last night of the Rotary Proms Exeter Cathedral Saturday, March 1, 7.30pm The Rotary Club of Exmouth & District is holding a Last Night of the Rotary Proms charity concert to celebrate the Centenary of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland.

Performers include the Military Wives Choir.

Tickets from £12 to £25. Call 01392 665885 or visit www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk

Phil Beer Band Barnfield Theatre, Exeter Sunday, March 2, 8pm Best known for his multi-instrumental wizardry as one half of England’s top acoustic/roots duo Show of Hands, Phil is touring again with his own band. Tickets £16.

Call 01392 270891 or visit the theatre’s website www.barnfieldtheatre.org.uk

Martin Harley Exeter Northcott Theatre Sunday, March 2, 8pm A life-long devotee of acoustic guitar music, especially the ageless blues/roots sounds, Martin has travelled the globe absorbing a plethora of diverse influences and honing his craft. Tickets cost £12. Call 01392 493493 or visit www. exeternorthcott.co.uk

Oysterband Exeter Corn Exchange Wednesday, March 5, 8pm Oysterband emerge from their hugely successful collaboration with June Tabor, the multiaward-winning Ragged Kingdom, with a brand new album of original songs full of big, open melodies and uplifting, insightful lyrics, and take to the road. Tickets £18.

Call 01392 665938 or visit the Corn Exchange website www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange

Newton Faulkner Great Hall, Exeter Friday, March 7 The double number one, multi-platinum-selling, Brit-nominated acoustic guitar virtuoso is back with new album Studio Zoo. Tickets £19.50. Visit www.gigsandtours.com

35th Anniversary Tour: The Selecter Exmouth Pavilion Friday, March 7, 8pm Too Much Pressure, released by the influential platinum selling band in 1980, remains a classic touchstone for a generation of ska lovers. The Selecter will be playing the album in its entirety plus a selection of other much-loved tracks and some surprises. Tickets £16.50. Call 01395 222477 or visit www.ledtickets.co.uk 06

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Newton Faulkner is at the Great Hall, Exeter University, on Friday, March 7

Exeter Symphony Orchestra and Exeter Philharmonic Choir Exeter Cathedral Saturday, March 8 The two local choirs will be performing together for a concert in aid of ABF The Soldier’s Charity, and will feature Beethoven’s Symphony No 9 – The Choral Symphony; Wagner’s Die Meistersinger and Parry’s Blessed Pair of Sirens.

It will celebrate the centenary of the Royal Town Planning Institute. Tickets £12 to £25. Call 01392 285983 or visit www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk

Solarference – Jekyll and Hyde Exeter Phoenix Sunday, March 9, 8pm Award-winning electronic musicians and singers Solarference perform an electrifying live soundtrack to accompany the classic 1920 silent film Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Tickets £10.

Call 01392 667080 or visit the Phoenix website www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

The Answer Exeter Phoenix Wednesday, March 12, 8pm After a two-year stint supporting AC/DC, Irish foursome The Answer will bring an astonishing live performance to delight classic rock fans.

Tickets £14.50. Call 01392 667080 or visit www. exeterphoenix.org.uk

Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Great Hall, Exeter University Thursday, March 13, 7.30pm The programme will include Chopin: Piano Concerto No 1, and Rachmaninov: Symphony No2. Tickets £12.50 to £36.50, under 18s £1. Call 01392 667080 or visit www.bsolive.com

Vibraphonic Festival Various venues Friday, March 14 to Saturday, March 29 Dreadzone and Craig Charles Funk and Soul Show are just some of the acts announced

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Divine Dining

Heading out for a family dinner or just catching up with friends for lunch?

Take advantage of the Divine Dining offer at Michael Caines Café Bar and Grill and enjoy a delicious meal at great prices.

Delight in two courses from £11.25 per person.

ABode Exeter, Cathedral Yard, Exeter, EX1 1HD

Available daily for both lunch and dinner, excluding Friday, Saturday and Sunday lunch.

E: info@abodeexeter.co.uk www.abodeexeter.co.uk

For further information, or to make your reservation, please call

01392 223626

Please quote EX MAGAZINE when calling and receive a complimentary glass of house wine, when booking for lunch, or dinner before 7.00pm. Offer valid until 30th April2014.

www.abodehotels.co.uk

LOOKING TO SELL YOUR ANTIQUES AND COLLECTABLES? ITV’s hit show Secret Dealers is back on TV in 2014 and we are looking for people to take part now.

If you own at least 8-10 antiques or collectables and are keen to sell then get in touch.

@SecretDealers /SecretDealers

Call 0117 970 7674* or email secretdealers@rdftelevision.com

*Standard network charges apply from a BT landline. Calls from mobiles will be considerably more.

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THE MONTH AHEAD THEATRE for this year’s Vibraphonic Festival. Call 01392 667080 or visit www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

Dreadzone Exeter Phoenix Friday, March 14, 8pm Celebrating their 20th anniversary sees Dreadzone return with unique live performances of their classic tracks and highlights from their latest album Escapades. Tickets £15.50. Call 01392 667080 or visit www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

Mad Dog McRea Exeter Phoenix Saturday, March 15, 8pm To celebrate St Patrick’s Day, Mad Dog Mcrea will raise hands, lift feet and start parties with their spellbinding recipe of folk, pop, rock, jazz, bluegrass and ‘shake your ass’ music. Tickets £13.

Call 01392 667080 or visit www.exeterphoenix. org.uk

The Fortunes Past and Present Exeter Corn Exchange Saturday, March 15, 8pm The hit band of the ‘60s and ‘70s present a brand new show which include The Fortunes hits and others drawn from their times in other bands, along with untold anecdotes and stories. Tickets £15. Call 01392 665938 or visit www.exeter.gov. uk/cornexchange

Bombay Bicycle Club Great Hall, Exeter University Monday, March 17 North London band Bombay Bicycle Club are in the midst of their first major UK headline tour in two years following the release of their fourth album. Tickets £19. Call 0844 811 0051 or visit www.gigsandtours.com

The Feeling Exeter Phoenix Wednesday, March 19, 8pm Five-piece indie-popsters The Feeling have a string of recognisable, radio-friendly hits under their belts aided by their unadulterated brand of ‘proper’ pop. Tickets £18.50. Call 01392 667080 or visit www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

Crikey It’s a Party Exeter Castle, Castle Street, Exeter Saturday, March 22, 8.30pm to 1am The Crikey It’s Vintage event features lives music from Jack Rabbit Slim, The Sugar Bullets, DJ Louie Louie and burlesque. Visit www.crikeyitsvintage. co.uk

The Endellion Quartet Exeter Northcott Theatre Sunday, March 23, 7.30pm Renowned as one of the finest quartets in the world, the concert will feature Haydn, Beethoven and Schumann. Tickets £16. Call 01392 493493 or visit www.exeternorthcott.co.uk 08

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Bombay Bicycle Club will be at the Great Hall at Exeter University on March 17

Kathryn Williams Exeter Phoenix Sunday, March 23, 8pm Newcastle-based singer-songwriter Kathryn Williams performs songs from her new album Crown Electric as well as classics from her lengthy body of work. Tickets £12. Call 01392 667080 or visit www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

Lee Scratch Perry Exeter Phoenix Wednesday, March 26, 7.30pm With a career spanning more than five decades, Lee Scratch Perry is one of the most iconic figures in reggae and dub.Tickets £18. Call 01392 667080 or visit www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

The Craig Charles Funk and Soul Show Exeter Phoenix Friday, March 21, 8.30pm Craig Charles’ club DJ shows brings the same

eclectic mix of songs as his show on BBC6 Music, covering northern soul, funk, soul and modern remixes. Support comes from local funk hero Lack Of Afro. Tickets £12.50. Call 01392 667080 or visit www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

Broadway Big Band Big Noise Exeter Cathedral Saturday, March 29, 7.30pm Four Devon choirs are coming together to present showstoppers from some of the biggest hit musicals in aid of charity. Tickets cost £11 to £16. Visit www.bignoisechorus.co.uk

Stiff Little Fingers Exeter Phoenix Monday, March 31, 8pm Stiff Little Fingers were at the forefront of the punk movement and are renowned for classic singles such as Suspect Device and Alternative Ulster. Tickets £18.50. Call 01392 667080 or visit www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

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STROLLING

Magician “I can assure you that myself and my guests very much enjoyed your performance. I have had nothing but positive feedback from everyone who I’ve spoken to about your magic. Even the ‘sceptical’ amongst them were impressed. If there are future events at which I could employ you, I will.” Alison Shepherd.

TRANSLATIONS

By BRIAN FRIEL

Director James Grieve

“This is Brian Friel’s finest play, his most deeply thought and felt” Daily Telegraph

Helping to make your special event even more magical.

Watch Mark perform at

www.expertmagician.co.uk or call 01392 252000

Spillers Spillers Chauffeur Hire Co.

30 years of quality

Driving Experience for Weddings, Touring, Social and Business events.

18 – 22 March 2014 Tickets: 01392 493 493 exeternorthcott.co.uk

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Rural location outside Exeter.

On a short or long term basis Collection and Delivery to & from your door in our enclosed car transporter

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Feel free to contact James on 01392 832809 or 07805 043 699 www.procarsolutions.co.uk procarsoltions@gmail.com

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THE MONTH AHEAD THEATRE Reduced Shakespeare Company in The Bible: The Complete Word of God (abridged)

Iolanthe

Exeter Northcott Theatre Sunday, March 2, 5pm and 8pm Expect an affectionate, irreverent roller coaster ride from fig leaves to Final Judgment as the bad boys of abridgement tackle great theological questions. Tickets £19. Call 01392 493493 or visit www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

Exeter Northcott Theatre Wednesday, March 12, to Saturday, March 15, 7.30pm Exeter University Gilbert and Sullivan Society return in their 46th year with the critically acclaimed and hilarious political satire Iolanthe.

There will be a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

Tickets £10 to £16. Call 01392 493493 or visit www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

Tony Hawks

Translations

Exeter Northcott Theatre Sunday, March 9, 8pm Comedian, author and filmmaker Tony Hawks combines storytelling, stand-up, musical comedy and film clips in an entertaining show.

Tickets £16. Call 01392 493493 or visit www. exeternorthcott.co.uk

Exeter Northcott Theatre Tuesday, March 18, to Saturday, March 22, 7.30pm Set in Rural Ireland in 1833, farm girl Máire finds herself torn between the affections of the local school teacher and the love of a British soldier.

There will be a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

Tickets £13.50 to £21.50. Call 01392 493493 or visit www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

Above Bored Bike Shed Theatre, Exeter Monday, March 10, 7.30pm This original psychological drama by Owdyado Theatre is a captivating two-hander where the actors double as both cops and suspects.

Tickets £12. Call 01392 434169 or visit www. bikeshedtheatre.co.uk

The Provoked Wife Matthews Hall, Topsham Tuesday, March 25 to Friday, March 28, 7.30pm Estuary Players are staging a roaring ‘20s version of Vanburgh’s thoughtful but ribald comedy

See Tony Hawks at Exeter Northcott Theatre on March 9 The Provoked Wife. Call 01392 873043 or visit Topsham Stores.

The Hole in the h Wall holeinthewall_

Little Castle Street EX4 3PX 01392 426994

holeinthewallexeter

Old pub, new style

Come & sample the ideal city-centre venue. Real ales in front of TV rugby, a dedicated late-night cider bar, carefully chosen wines & cocktails made with love.

Dine in front of 5 big screens, relaxing in the lounge or enjoy a proper sit-down meal in our restaurant.

Top quality food - gourmet hotdogs, juicy steaks, irresistible grazing plates, delicious mains, lovely desserts & more.

Refreshment & Entertainment

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THE MONTH AHEAD COMEDY

DANCE

Lee Hurst, above, and Roy Chubby Brown, below, are at the Exeter Corn Exchange this month

Exeter Comedy Club Exeter Corn Exchange Friday, March 7, 8.30pm Four top comedians hoping to become the stars of the future will grace the stage for another night of laughter. Tickets £12. Call 01392 665938 or visit www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange

Roy Chubby Brown Exeter Corn Exchange Friday, March 21, 7.30pm Roy Chubby Brown returns with his bluest show yet as his rip-roaring brand of banter continues to burst bellies across the country. Tickets £19.50. Call 01392 665938 or visit www.exeter. gov.uk/cornexchange

Lee Hurst Exeter Corn Exchange Saturday, March 29, 8pm In his new tour, stand-up comic Lee Hurst is travelling throughout Britain to find out what really winds you up. Tickets £16. Call 01392 665938 or visit www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange

Vienna Festival Ballet presents Cinderella, at Exeter Corn Exchange on March 12

The BCA Western Classic Cheerleading Competition Westpoint, Exeter Saturday, March 1, to Sunday, March 2, 8am It’s time to get the pompoms at the ready now that Westpoint has been chosen as a new venue to host a major regional cheerleading competition.

Spectator tickets are £15 for adults, £10 under-12s. Call 0844 562 3324 or visit www. cheerleading.org.uk

Exeter Northcott Theatre Saturday, March 8, 2pm A modern and fun twist on an old-fashioned afternoon tea dance. The award-winning Sugar Dandies, as seen on Britain’s Got Talent, serve up performance, social dancing and party games.

Dancers and non-dancers of all ages welcome.

Tickets £18 (tables on stage) or £14 (main auditorium). Call 01392 493493 or visit www. exeternorthcott.co.uk

Richard Alston Dance Company

Cinderella

Exeter Northcott Theatre Tuesday, March 4, to Wednesday, March 5, 7.30pm A programme which matches the shimmering beauty of Ravel with smouldering tango and the exhilaration of Benjamin Britten. Tickets £11.50 to £19.50. Call 01392 493493 or visit www. exeternorthcott.co.uk

Exeter Corn Exchange Wednesday, March 12, 7.30pm Vienna Festival Ballet is presenting its new spring ballet, the classic tale of Cinderella. It features a collection of music taken from the vast array of great Italian composer Rossini. Tickets £20 adults, £15 under-16s. Call 01392 665938 or visit www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange

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The Sugar Dandies’ Tea Party

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THE MONTH AHEAD DAYS OUT Plant a Memory: Snowdrop Weekend Killerton, Broadclyst, Exeter Saturday, March 1, to Sunday, March 2, 11am to 4pm Leave a lasting memory for somebody special by planting snowdrops in Killerton’s chapel grounds.

Please bring a trowel. Suggested donation £2.

Normal admission charges apply.

The Devon National Exeter Racecourse Tuesday, March 4, 2pm The Devon National is the equine equivalent of running a marathon. Some of the region’s best-loved horses will set out on a steady gallop for nearly four miles with the eventual winner adding their name to the prestigious trophy.

Tickets cost from £13 if booked in advance. Call 0844 5793005 or visit www.exeter-racecourse. co.uk

Lunchtime lecture: The Coral Reef Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter Wednesday, March 5, 1pm Expedition leader and photographer Pam Kemp will take visitors on a journey beneath the waves to explore a coral reef: its unique structure, the

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creatures that inhabit it and its special place within our world today. Tickets £6. To book call 01392 265858.

Premier League Darts Westpoint, Exeter Thursday, March 6, 7pm Darts biggest roadshow event will celebrate its 10th staging next year, with reigning champion Michael van Gerwen to defend his title against the likes of six-time winner Phil Taylor across 16 weeks of action around the UK and Ireland, live on Sky Sports. Tickets £35 to £40 for table seats or £20 tiered seating. Call 08444 99 99 55 or visit www.ticketzone.co.uk

Basic Butchery and Charcuterie Day Course West Town Farm, Ide, Exeter, EX2 9TG Sunday, March 9, 9.30am Good Game and West Town Farm have teamed up together to show how to butcher the main cuts of pork and make bacon, sausages and charcuterie. Call 01392 811257 or visit www. westtownfarm.co.uk

RockSolidRace Escot Park, Ottery St Mary

Saturday, March 15 RockSolidRace is an obstacle course race like no other with a cocktail of mud, sweat and team work. Competitors can choose between the 5k Dash or the 10k RockSolid followed by an after party. Visit www.rocksolidrace.com

Charlie Dimmock – A Passion for Gardens Exmouth Pavilion Sunday, March 16, 7.30pm Be inspired in your garden with TV gardening guru Charlie Dimmock, one of Britain’s best known and best loved gardeners, hosted by BBC Radio’s Paul Harris. Tickets £18.50. Call 01395 222477 or visit www.ledtickets.co.uk

John Lewis Charity Fashion Show Exmouth Pavilion Thursday, March 20, 7pm Exmouth Raleigh Rotary Club will present a fashion show in association with John Lewis in aid of Hospiscare Exmouth & Lympstone and Rotary Charities. The evening will also feature a demonstration by the internationally renowned hairdresser Daniel K Neaves. Tickets £12 to £14, including a glass of bucks fizz. Call 01395 222477 or visit www.ledtickets.co.uk

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Tommy by Mark Thomas, Gwynedd

Selected superior hand woven rugs and runners from £400 on display

Above: Vintage hand woven Persian Kashan, circa 1960. In outstanding condition. £1,200 120 x 79 in. (305 x 201 cm) New Afghan Kazak runner £590 77 x 27 in. (196 x 69 cm)

New Afghan Super Kazak £1,100 82 x 58 in (208 x 147 cm)

New Afghan Khotan £1,500 95 x 65 in. (241 x 165 cm) New Afghan Mahal £2,990 122 x 95 in. (310 x 241 cm)

29 March to 20 July

QUALITY ASSURED

VISITOR

ATTRACTION

RUG RESTORATION & PROFESSIONAL CLEANING

Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery, Queen Street Exeter EX4 3RX

T 01392 265858 E RAMM@exeter.gov.uk

www.exeter.gov.uk/ramm

Free entry

..Hundreds to view in our showroom or your home

Strand . Topsham . EX3 0JB Tel 01392 877443 www.brightsofnettlebed.co.uk

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THE MONTH AHEAD DAYS OUT

ART

Crikey It’s Vintage Exeter Castle, Castle Street, Exeter Saturday March 22, 10am to 4pm Back with a new venue and more on offer is Crikey It’s Vintage. The day includes 20 classic cars and hot rods, more than 80 stall holders, pop-up beauty parlour, tattoo parlour, fashion shows dedicated rooms for clothes sellers, vintage and retro sellers as well as steampunk exhibitors. The event is followed by Crikey It’s a Party. Visit www.crikeyitsvintage.co.uk

Westpoint Antiques and Collectors Fair Westpoint, Exeter Saturday, March 22, to Sunday, March 23, 10am to 5pm The fair has up to 400 stands from all over the UK, offering an extensive range of antiques and collectables. Adults £5, under-16s free. Call 01584 873634 or visit www.continuityfairs.co.uk

Lord Mayor’s Charity Wedding Fayre Exeter Guildhall Sunday, March 23, 10am to 4pm Meet a range of local wedding suppliers and enter a prize draw to win the chance to get married in the Guildhall for free. Fayre entry is free.

Hunter Chase Raceday Exeter Racecourse Wednesday, March 26, 2.10pm Exeter Racecourse is hosting four hunter chases, culminating in a prestigious final on May 6.

Tickets £13 in advance. Call 0844 5793005 or visit www.exeter-racecourse.co.uk

The BIG Cake Show Westpoint, Exeter Friday, March 28, and Saturday, March 29, 9.30am to 6pm, and Sunday, March 30, 10am to 5pm The baking extravaganza includes pre-bookable workshops, demonstrations and meet-andgreets with baking celebrities including Mary Berry, Paul Hollywood and Phil Vickery, plus regional chefs and children’s kitchens. Oneday tickets £12 adults, £10 senior citizens, £6 children five to 12, £32 family of four. Two-day entry (Friday and Saturday or Saturday and Sunday) £18 adults. Call 01392 829945 or visit www.thebigcakeshow.com

Unique Boutique Exeter Phoenix Saturday, March 29, 11am to 4pm The latest Unique Boutique will be dedicated to parties. Find wedding favours, room and table decorations, hen party ideas, the right hair piece, earrings or handbag for your new outfit, and gifts for every occasion. All the goods on sale are designed and/or made in the South West. Free entry.

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Explore the work of Gilbert & George at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter

Edward Chell: Soft Estate Spacex, Preston Street, Exeter Saturday, March 8, to Saturday, May 3 Prints made using road dust and etched car parts, a film of roadside shrines, and a new essay by nature writer Richard Mabey are just some of the highlights of the exhibition.

Watercolour Painting Workshop Park House Gallery, Queen’s Terrace, Exeter Friday, March 14, to Sunday, March 16 Beginners and improvers are invited to join in the small group workshop with Alexander Winter, a renowned watercolour artist, teacher and colour designer from Germany. The cost is £165. Call 01392 966376 or visit www. alexanderwinter.co.uk

Friends Art Auction Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter Wednesday, March 19, 6.30pm An evening reception and auction of artworks donated by local artists to raise money towards the purchase of a portrait of the Devon artist Francis Hayman by Sir Joshua Reynolds. The evening includes live music. Tickets £12.50. Call 01392 265858.

Gilbert & George Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter

Saturday, March 22, to Sunday, June 22 Gilbert & George are among the most celebrated artists to have emerged from the art scene in the late 1960s. The exhibition represents major aspects of the artists’ career from 1969 to 1991.

S Mark Gubb: History is Written By the Winners Exeter Phoenix Friday, March 28, to Saturday, May 10 Cardiff-based artist S Mark Gubb presents a solo exhibition of recent works including installation, sculpture, photography and performance.

Exeter Open Studios Friday, March 28, to Sunday, March 30 Various venues EOS is packed with exhibits created by more than 100 painters, illustrators, sculptors, jewellers and ceramicists which will be on display at almost 60 venues across the city. Visit www. exeteropenstudios.co.uk

British Wildlife Photographer Award 2013 Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter Saturday, March 29, to Sunday, July 20 A showcase of some of the finest images captured by photographers practising in Britain.

Subjects range from the familiar to the rare.

EX 03/14 21/02/2014 10:46:18

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wicke

Something

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Pictures by Matt Austin

Standing out from the crowd is what Exeter-based theatre company Four Of Swords is all about.

The company’s reputation for staging energetic stories in unusual surroundings is about to get even more dramatic.

ed

Following the success of its sold out performances of Jekyll & Hyde at the historic Poltimore House on the outskirts of the city last year, its latest production is set to be even more spectacular.

This year is the 450th anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth and to mark the anniversary, Four of Swords will perform a striking new adaptation of Macbeth in Beer Quarry Caves. It will run on Wednesday to Saturdays from April 30 to May 10.

It is the first time a theatrical production has been staged at the 2,000-year-old site between Sidmouth and Lyme Regis.

Philip Kingslan John, co-director of Four of Swords, said: “Although it’s not a traditional theatre space, it’s certainly dramatic. We’re inside so it doesn’t matter if it’s raining, and the caves maintain a constant temperature of nine degrees. I’m most excited about using the cave walls to project our film sequences, and the acoustics are amazing.”

Adventurous theatregoers will be guided through the labyrinth of the caves by The Witches, whose prophecies predict and, just perhaps, steer Macbeth’s actions and seal his fate.

Audience members are advised they will be standing and walking throughout the onehour show. Comfortable footwear and warm clothes are recommended, and hard hats will be provided.

Four of Swords was formed in 2012 by Sarah White and Philip Kingslan. Its previous shows include Gawain & Green Knight, performed at Exeter Phoenix last December.

Tickets for Macbeth cost £10.

Call 01392 434169 or visit www.four-of-swords.com

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He made his mark while appearing on BBC2’s Great British Bake Off last year as the contestant who made sure that everything that came out of the oven was supersized. Now Glenn Cosby is set to appear in new cookery extravaganza The BIG Cake Show at Westpoint in Exeter from March 28 to 30.

His new-found cooking fame is enjoyed alongside his full-time profession working as teacher. He is head of the sixth form at Teignmouth Community School

what you should

know about me:

What is your signature dish?

Croquembouche – a tower of filled choux buns stuck together with caramel.

What has been your worst kitchen disaster?

There have been lots – perhaps my puff pastry in the Great British Bake Off week 7!

What was your best and worst moment on the Bake Off? The best moments were all the laughs with the other bakers and with Mel and Sue. The worst was when I cried on national TV.

y b s o C n n e l G

If you could cook for anyone who would it be?

The Dalai Lama.

What inspires you?

My friends and my husband.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received/lesson you’ve learned?

Life isn’t a dress rehearsal.

What did you have for dinner last night?

Pasta with bacon and leeks.

What’s your greatest triumph?

My marriage.

What is your favourite meal of all time?

There are so many… perhaps an Italian feast starting with antipasti such as salt cod mantecado followed by spaghetti carbonara, some kind of fresh fish or shellfish main course and then finished off with tiramisu.

What’s your biggest regret?

I try not to have any but I suppose it would be all the decisions I made because of fear.

What is your favourite ingredient to work with?

Eggs.

Who have you enjoyed cooking for the most?

My friends.

What do you enjoy about your career as a teacher?

Watching students grow in confidence and/ or aspiration is the most amazing thing in the world.

Have you ever considered giving up teaching to be a chef?

No. If someone offers me my own TV show I may have to think twice.

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What motto do you live by?

Many sayings and mottos inspire me. One of my favourites is: “The man who never made a mistake never made anything.”

Tell us a secret about yourself...

No. How did you become involved in The BIG Cake Show?

I was approached by the wonderful Mel and Sue via Twitter. We then met at the Powderham Food festival and got on like a house on fire – probably united in our love of big cakes.

What will you be doing at the show?

Cooking demos, workshop and hosting other cooks on the West Country Larder stage and generally having fun.

What is the best cake?

My massive one-hour chocolate celebration cake.

What do you make of Exeter?

I love Exeter – it’s the best city in the UK to live in.

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24/02/2014 09:25:37

Even if you’ve never heard of Neil Rushton and his adventurous antics, it doesn’t take long to work out there’s much more to him than just your usual GP, as Anita Merritt found out after a visit to his Cullompton surgery

On top of the world Visiting a GP becomes a whole new experience when you step inside the consulting room of Neil Rushton.

For starters, there can’t be many patients who are greeted by a doctor wearing shorts all year round. Even the recent storms haven’t deterred Neil from baring his legs to one and all.

It’s not that Neil has anything against wearing trousers, or has a liking for showing off his well-sculpted pins earned from his love of outdoor pursuits. His unconventional dress sense is admirably an expression of solidarity with a fellow GP who is undergoing chemotherapy for cancer.

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Neil and another colleague at Cullompton’s College Surgery have pledged to wear them until Dr Jacob returns to work in the spring, and by doing so raise money for Exeter Leukaemia Fund.

The shorts quickly become forgotten though once you cast your eyes around the unusual pictures and certificates adorning the walls of the room.

Instead of the typical GP personal mementos such as family photos, doctor qualifications and pictures of sunsets, Neil has a postcard of Island Peak in the Himalayas, a very bright handcrafted picture of a rainbow, and numerous climbing certificates. One reveals that in

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Picture by Matt Austin

2010, at the age of 58, Neil climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa – a feat he has achieved twice.

What you wouldn’t know from his walls though is that Neil’s head for heights, along with a love of adventure and helping others, has led him to accomplish even more remarkable achievements.

Two years ago, Neil swapped being a family GP for working at Mount Everest in what is the highest hospital in the world.

The clinic in Pheriche – two days’ trek from Mount Everest’s Base Camp – is run on a voluntary basis and charges Westerners but is free for the Nepalis.

Neil offered his services for three months and was accompanied by his partner Ceri Lloyd, who he met in the Mauritanian desert during a challenge called the Plymouth Banjul Rally.

A fortnight before their trip to the highest country in the world, the adventurous duo decided to enjoy a break in the Maldives, the lowest country of the world. The two extremes are a common feature in Neil’s life.

Recalling his journey to the hospital’s remote location, he says: “We had two weeks of learning about altitude sickness, diarrhoea and how to speak Nepalese, and then flew to Lukla airport. It is renowned for being the most dangerous flight in the world, and a week after our journey 16 people died on a flight.

“We then made our way to Pheriche and when we arrived there came the sudden realisation that this was it for the next three months. There was certainly some apprehension because if you get it wrong there’s no one to help you.

“I was paired with a Polish doctor and a translator. There was a feeling of medical isolation but fortunately our translator was very knowledgeable about altitude, even though he wasn’t a doctor.

“It was a huge contrast to normal life as a GP in Cullompton, but it was an amazing experience. The sickest people were the trekkers from all over the world who had no experience of altitude sickness. It happens when you don’t take care over how you come up the mountain.

“During the time I was there, 18 people were evacuated by helicopter. They are also brought down by sherpas (Nepal’s indigenous mountain workforce) with pack animals called yaks because they don’t seem to get altitude sickness.

“Helicopters won’t fly at night so trekkers often have to wait until the morning to get taken out. At the hospital we had oxygen concentrators which were powered by solar panels on the roof of the hospital because the electricity only works half of the time, so I like to think it was the Nepalese weather that helped them live. Nobody died in the time I was there which was good.”

In a busy year up to 10,000 people walk up to the base of the mountain and of those, hundreds summit Everest. The journey sees them ascend to well over 8,000 metres, the so-called Death Zone, where there is so little oxygen that the human body cannot sustain itself.

“I’ve had some personal experience of altitude sickness when I was climbing Island Peak,” admits Neil. “I suffered with dizziness which was actually swelling of the brain. It creeps up on people, like it did me.”

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Despite being so close to the summit of Everest, Neil admits he didn’t, and still doesn’t, have a burning desire to conquer the mountain himself.

“It’s become a bit of a ‘anyone can climb Everest’, if you have the money,” he says. “It costs about £30,000 and you are now taken up by sherpas on fixed ropes. You might perhaps get a nice picture out of it, but I think living there was more preferable than climbing Everest.”

Living in Everest was a world apart from the usual comfortable living in Devon, but Neil embraced every moment.

“It was also very cold, usually minus 15 degrees outside and minus three inside,” explains Neil. “The days were quite short and it was dark by 4.30pm. In the evenings we found warmth from a yak dung stove.

We got to know the price of yak dung well!

“There was very limited food. We mostly ate 21

21/02/2014 11:09:10

Out there I was making huge changes and the people I treated were very grateful rice, dhal bhat (a mixture of lentils in a soup and boiled or steamed rice), and other local food. There was no fruit or alcohol.”

It was a small price to pay though for the feeling Neil says he got when he got out of bed every day.

“I would wake up every morning, go outside and see dawn breaking over the famous mountain,” recalls Neil. “The beauty of it is absolutely stunning. It gave me this feeling of almost religious belief that the world is a beautiful, wonderful place. Seeing it every day was an amazing privilege. Compared to the rubbish rain we’ve been having recently it makes you feel very good!

“Professionally it was an amazing experience in my medical career. I was saving lives on a daily basis, whereas when you’re a GP, you might increase someone’s blood pressure tablets which means they might not have a stroke in 10 years’ time. But out there I was making huge changes and the people I treated were very grateful. I now have an amazing email book of people I met and have kept in touch with.”

The Neil who left Everest was very different to the one who arrived, both physically and mentally. The most noticeable change was Neil losing 1.5st and Ceri losing 2st.

“The weight loss was partly because you lose muscle bulk at that altitude, because your

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enzymes don’t work as well,” explains Neil, who gives talks about his adventures. “Ceri was also not well for the last month with a bad chest infection, so we hitched a lift back down by helicopter. I was really luckily and wasn’t sick a single day – but I had access to a good pharmacy!

“When we left and got to Kathmandu and saw a tangerine we screamed in anticipation as we had not had fruit in such a long time.”

The catalyst for Neil’s three-month secondment was what he describes as a belated “mid-life crisis” in 2009. He set himself four gruelling physical challenge to raise money for charity in memory of his wife.

They were to climb a mountain in the Himalayas; cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats; walk the West Highland Way; and row the River Thames.

By the end, Neil had raised an incredible £11,000 for the NET Patient Foundation.

“It was fitting that one of the events was cycling,” says Neil. “Carcinoid cancer is known as the silent cancer because it is often not until late in the disease that it shows itself – as it proved for my wife Chris on a tandem ride in 2002.

“She wasn’t pedalling well and had a lot of back pain. We got her a new saddle but she was later diagnosed with cancer. She

survived for nine months.”

Neil’s wife died aged 52, leaving Neil to look after their two sons and two daughters.

“Bringing up four children was not easy but I think they helped me more than I helped them,” admits Neil.

It was with two of his sons that Neil climbed his first mountain, Island Peak, giving him the confidence to test himself to the limits and capabilities even more. But the extent to which he has been willing to test himself has amazed his family, colleagues and patients.

“When I did Island Peak I listened to a talk their doctor gives every day about altitude sickness and wondered if I could come back in my own capacity as a doctor,” says Neil.

“I decided to study for an MSc in remote medicine based at Exeter and Plymouth University. As part of the course you have to spend three months in a remote environment, so that’s how I ended up at Everest working for the Himalayan Rescue Association.”

The self-confessed adrenalin junkie has also tried to swim the channel with five others in relay, but strong tides meant he had to abandon the attempt only three miles away from reaching the shore.

“The attempt didn’t quite work but it was great fun trying,” concedes Neil. “I would be tempted to give it a go again but there’s a lot of cold water training you have to do. What it has done though is given me though is a love of outdoor swimming.

“I have swum The Outdoor Swimming Society’s Dart 10k from Totnes to Dittisham, and next would like to swim the Scilly isles so I probably am an adrenalin junkie!”

But for now, Neil’s feet are firmly grounded on mostly dry land in Cullompton, and the truth is he wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

“Every day I come to work and think it’s the most wonderful job in the world,” he says. “I truly believe that and people pay me for it.

“Two of my children are getting married this year so it’s like a nice completion of the story.

“I have also become a grandfather which has made me feel even more rooted in the community. I love living in Devon and wouldn’t want to live anywhere else in the world.”

EX 03/14 21/02/2014 11:09:28

J O I N U S I N T H E D AY S P ECI A L I T Y CO F F E ES ARTISAN FOO D F R E S H J U IC E S & S M O OT H I E S

J OIN US IN TH E EVENIN G FINE WINES CRAFT BEERS C O C K TA I L S

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EX 03/14 20/02/2014 14:00:16

tHe

Oddfellows gastro pub and cocktail lounge has enduring appeal. Fran McElhone met owners Yvan and Faye Wiliams and found out why it’s anything you want it to be...

DD couple The Oddfellows style suits Exeter. When Yvan and Faye came along and turned a rather dreary drinking hole into a stylish urban gastro pub and cocktail lounge, they gave it back its original 19th century name, derived from the ‘poor freemasons group’ who would meet there in the mid 1800s.

Eight years on, the 39 year old and 36 year old remain true to their ethos encompassing core values including inclusivity, diversity, quality and style.

Who could tire of this?

Yvan and Faye know what they’re doing.

Having been in the trade since he was a child, learning from his parents who ran restaurants in Dartmouth, Yvan became deputy catering manager at Exeter University, opened up the Phoenix

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café bar, then Old Timers, then became operations manager for the Boston Tea Party. This is when he met his wife, who has a background in the hotel industry, when she was managing the Honiton branch.

So running their own place was, yes, on the cards.

“Exeter used to have horrible boozers,” Yvan recalls. “This was an opportunity. We both worked in places where we wanted to eat and drink, so we built this place on what we like when we go out, and brought it all together - the open kitchen, the real ales, the cocktails, the selection of beers which you can’t get everywhere, and a seasonal menu with quality produce.”

The maintenance of their ethos means Oddfellows, with its upstairs Speakeasy cocktail lounge, is keeping up with the

independents opening up across the city.

“Our vision was to create a bar and restaurant and cocktail lounge that everyone would like,” Yvan continues. “The Oddfellows is whatever you want it to be – a place to grab a pizza and a beer, a restaurant or place to drink a few pints or cocktails and champagne.

“If you want a party, you can have a party, if you want to come and have a date, come and have a date, if you want classic cocktails or a gin and tonic, you can.

“One Saturday, we had people eating who had been to the rugby, groups of students, hen parties, two retired couples who are regulars and enjoy a brandy after dinner, and a private party upstairs. On Monday we have open mic night, Thursday live music, pizza, steak, and burger nights, early diner

EX 03/14 21/02/2014 11:22:33

“

If you want a party, you can have a party, if you want to come and have a date, come and have a date

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Pictures by Matt Austin

offers.

This is the Oddfellows style. “It suits Exeter,” continues Yvan. “You have people who come in with a fiver in their pocket and want to have a couple of pints, other people who come in who want a £25 bottle of wine, some people who want champagne – you have that mix in Exeter.”

For Yvan and Faye, embracing diversity is key. Having hosted a number of wakes, Yvan is keen to spread the word that they are open to private hire during the day too. In addition, cocktail-making classes will soon be on offer for corporate or private parties.

And Exeter Pride holds meetings at the space, where there used to be a gentlemen’s club which, Yvan says, could see a revival.

The pub bore the name from 1879 named after the poor freemasons group who would

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meet there. Then it was called the City Gate, Malloys, and the Thirsty Camel before becoming Oddfellows again.

“We looked at other names and just thought, so many people remember it as Oddfellows, when they were 16 and are now 60, so we put it back to what it used to be,” Yvan continues.

But no, this place isn’t the manifestation of their equilibrium. They have too many ideas.

Which from what I can see is the root of this joint’s success.

“We’ve worked hard to make sure this is the place people want to come,” Yvan explains.

“I’m full of ideas, and every week I put another idea into the pot. It’s about offering Exeter something different. It’s not about reinventing ourselves, but adding ideas.”

At this point Yvan instructs his bar tenders to make sure anyone coming in asking about the ales is given a taster. He’s planning on getting more pumps in and extending the range.

Food-wise, the specials board changes every fortnight and the menu changes with the seasons which is locally sourced and sustainable - as much as possible. Sunday roast often has 60 odd covers. And Yvan’s just added the classic Surf and Turf back to the menu but with Oddfellows quality – think rib eye steak, king prawns and home made chips.

“We always try new dishes out on people first,” he adds. “We’ve just tried a paprika battered deep fried cauliflower, it was delicious. Everything’s cooked to order so vegetarian dishes can be made vegan straight away, and altered if people have dietary requirements. If people have a list of requirements, they can have a chat with the chefs, it’s no problem. We get a lot of people asking if we can do things and it’s never a problem.”

Upstairs, the Speakeasy cocktail lounge, is like walking into a private members club that whiff of underground culture, where you can do all the things you think you can’t, breezing out from within when you open the door into its front room type comfort which is olive green, wooden, mirrored, and scattered with bottles, glasses and other 26

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intriguing bric-a-brac. I reminded Yvan of our autumn staff party where journalists and media sales execs were unleashed on the cocktail menu. He smiles, not battering an eyelid at our attempts to be naughty.

He tells me about another idea of his, to revamp the cocktail lounge and make it even more cool. “If you want to attract new people you have to run with what is happening now, you can’t sit back,” he adds.

“We’re about uncompromising quality. For us, it’s not about reinventing the wheel, but evolving it and just being inventive.”

EX 03/14 21/02/2014 14:01:45

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21/02/2014 24/02/2014 17:11:38 10:24:11

Award-winning food critic Becky Sheaves found an oasis of calm at Exeter’s Jasmine Thai restaurant during a busy Friday in the city Cutting to the chase, what a little gem of a restaurant the Jasmine Thai on Exeter’s Fore Street is. My husband John and I went there for the first time the other day, meeting up for a weekday lunch and a chance to escape the busy working day for an hour or so.

Outside, all was bustle and buses, not to mention tipping rain, parking problems and puddles. Inside, the place is a little slice of Thai tranquillity – a calm oasis of good service and delicious food in the midst of a busy Friday in Exeter.

We were met on arrival by a serene Thai woman with flowers in her hair, to whom I very nearly said hello before realising she was, in fact, carved out of wood and merely decorating the doorway. Once inside, we were met by another serene Thai woman, this time very definitely real and smiling, in an upbeat bright yellow oriental shirt.

The restaurant is decorated in simple, oriental style with large golden Buddha heads, dark wood and muted silvers, plus padded banquettes. As an aside, for all my fellow deaf friends out there, the acoustics in this restaurant are completely wonderful. I’m somewhat hard of hearing (ahem) and many a groovy or interesting venue is hell for me due to its preponderance of hard surfaces and odd-shaped ceilings, swallowing up sounds and bouncing them around in an impossible-to-hear fashion. Here, despite the almost laughably cheesy easy-listening background music playing constantly, John and I could chat with ease, without me saying “What?” every five minutes.

Jasmine Thai is open for lunch only on Fridays, as evening meals are really their thing. We opted for the set menu, going for the option that cost £13.45 per head.

This started with prawn crackers as nibbles – so far, so ordinary. Starters for me were thod man pla – Thai fishcakes. These I also found a bit dull, but John thought they were “delicate”. Their dipping sauce – clear and vinegary, with chopped vegetables, was very 28

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Oriental delicious, though.

John started with satay gai – fragrant chicken satay skewers with spicy peanut sauce, very good indeed. Next, he had a Thai green curry with prawns for his main course, which almost made me feel a bit jealous. Very coconutty, with lots of flavour and fresh ingredients, absolutely jam-packed with king prawns.

I went for the squid phad bai krapaow, tasty

EX 03/14 24/02/2014 11:11:08

“

The main courses both came with a half moon of steamed fluffy white rice and were, in short, altogether wonderful

delight stir-fried squid in a warm broth flavoured with chilli, garlic and Thai holy basil. It was really rather scorching thanks to the chilli but extremely tasty once you got into it.

These main courses both came with a half moon of steamed fluffy white rice and were, in short, altogether wonderful. Throughout, our waitress was extremely efficient, helpful and yet self-effacing, allowing us to have a relaxed and peaceful lunch.

Jasmine Thai, 153 Fore Street, Exeter 01392 689988 Cooking: 8 Atmosphere: 8 Service: 10 Price: Weekday three course lunch for two including drinks: £48.70

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For dessert, I chose banana fritters, which exceeded all expectations. Hot and sweet with a light, crispy sesame-seed encrusted batter and a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzled with warm syrup. John had ordered a coconut pancake stuffed with coconut. The pancake was an unexpected grass-green colour, wrapped in a neat parcel around loose handfuls of golden toasted coconut. I tried some and thought it tasted more than a little weird – the pancake could almost be described as slimy, with rather dry, hay-like contents. Definitely different.

However, John said it was well worth persevering, as once you got used to such an unfamiliar collection of textures and tastes, it was really special and rather delightful.

Despite the recipes coming from half-way round the world, I was impressed to see that Jasmine Thai aims to source ingredients locally. They use products such as topquality Devon ice cream, and even feature the superb Dart Valley wine from the Sharpham Vineyard near Totnes on their drinks menu.

We had a good look at the evening menu when I was there and, suffice to say, John and I will certainly be back before too long to give the much more extensive choice of dishes a good go. We really liked this restaurant. I’d say Exeter is lucky to be blessed with such a good example of Thai cuisine. All too soon our lunch was over and we had to leave this little haven of oriental calm to once more do battle with the shoppers out on the busy streets.

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20/02/2014 15:34:07

Picture by Des Willie

It’s showtime Cake lovers and bakers will be able to indulge their sweet tooth during the biggest baking extravaganza to come to Exeter’s Westpoint The BIG Cake Show is a three-day event with a star-studded line-up of chefs in the demonstration theatre including Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood – judges on the BBC hit show The Great British Bake Off – celebrity chef Phil Vickery, internationally renowned cake maker Mich Turner, MasterChef finalist Stacie Stewart, Great British Bake Off winners Edd Kimber, Jo Wheatley and John Whaite, plus 2013 contestant Glenn Cosby from Tiverton.

It opens its doors at 9.30am on Friday, March 28, and will run daily until Sunday, March 30. The show will have a second demonstration theatre, set within The Westcountry Larder – a dedicated area where visitors can buy locally produced products, watch demonstrations and meet local chefs.

It will see the likes of local celebrity chefs The Tanner Brothers and Richard Hunt sharing their top tips. All demonstrations are free and available to everyone on a first come first served basis.

Visitors can enjoy hands-on experience during interactive workshops.

Kim Vernon, one of the directors of The BIG Cake Show, said: “Providing an interactive and fun-packed show is really important to us. The workshops provide a chance for visitors to learn something new or hone a skill that they already have with professionals. We want people to go home feeling like they have learnt something”.

There will also be the opportunity to get up to date with the latest trends in all things baking, with exhibitors from all over the country selling and demonstrating their products.

Fellow director of The BIG Cake Show Mel Edwards said: “One of the main ideas behind this show was to make the cake and baking industry more accessible to people in the South West. We had friends who were travelling to London and Manchester to get their

baking fix and we wanted to make it so that the South West didn’t miss out.”

There will also be lots of things for children to enjoy such as The Kid’s Kitchen, run by Fun Kitchen, where they can learn new baking skills through having fun and getting stuck in.

On the Friday there will also be the judging of The BIG School where three secondary school students from the local region will go head to head.

A competitive theme continues in the show’s main competition area where amateur and professional bakers will battle it out for The BIG Cake Show Competition crown by creating an extravagant bake with a South West theme.

Other things to look out for at the show include the WHSmith book signing area where the nation’s favourite baking stars will be signing books throughout the weekend. There will also be also a Meet the Author area where visitors can chat with their favourite chefs.

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The show is open on the Friday and Saturday from 9.30am to 6pm, and Sunday from 10am to 5pm.

Workshops can be pre-booked.

One day tickets cost £12 adults, £10 senior citizens, £6 children five to 12, £32 family of four.

Two day entry (Friday and Saturday or Saturday and Sunday) cost £18 adults.

Call 01392 829945 or visit www.thebigcakeshow.com 31

21/02/2014 10:00:10

There is a reason why your coffee should be brewed at 93 degrees Celsius and take approximately 26 seconds to extract.

Light & Dark Joe Hill, co-owner and managing director of Artigiano coffee and wine bar on Exeter High Street tells Fran McElhone why...

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W

ithin 10 minutes of striding into Exeter’s answer to a European-style, hip coffee-byday, wine-by-night bar, my perspective on coffee exploded from the size of an insipid instant coffee granule to a bulging sack of beans.

And within days of licking the froth of my Artigiano flat white from my top lip, I’d spread the word to several friends, colleagues and family members, that there are four very compelling reasons to make sure you support independents like the high street’s new kid on the block, even if a cup does cost you a few pence more.

They are: fair trade ethics, quality and integrity. The fourth, for Artigiano anyway, is the uber-cool atmos.

From the point when Joe Hill, a former retail director for Specsavers in Exeter and Exmouth decided enough was enough three years ago and started actioning his idea of opening up an artisan coffee bar instead, the 33-year-old local lad always had his home town’s high street in mind.

But, also believing his business profile and brand would only be sustainable if he opened a few bars, while waiting for the ‘dream’ premises to become vacant he first opened up two in the heart of London’s which he says, in hindsight, worked out pretty well.

“There’s an improving coffee culture out there,” he affirms.

“People are really starting to enjoy spending time in coffee shops with a really nice design, which seemed to be lacking in Exeter,” he continues likening Starbucks to an ‘airport waiting lounge’.

But this place shouldn’t be described as having a ‘nice design’.

With its high ceilings, exposed brick work, industrial urban edge, with plans for rotating local art work, acoustic nights, wine tasting evenings and private parties, this is some trendy joint – with, most importantly, a focus on serving up coffee, beer, wine, lunch and evening sharing platters of the highest standard.

Now Joe fills my brain with the lowdown on coffee, before scrolling through the photos of his other coffee houses on his laptop showing me flat whites with beautiful peacocks and swans somehow inscribed in the foam by Exeter barista Matt Woolley, who came fourth in last year’s UK Latte Art Championships.

“High street chains will dark roast their coffee beans which gives a consistency of flavour, so their coffee will taste the same in Exeter as it does in London or America or anywhere else,” he explains.

“Our beans are much lighter in colour, a green-brown, and leaving them natural really allows the taste of the beans to shine through and results in all sorts of flavour profiles.

“At any given time we have on our bespoke standard blend.

A blended coffee goes best with milk. As far as our customers are concerned this is our standard coffee, but as far as we’re concerned we’ve worked really hard behind the scenes to create it!”

Artigiano works with Cornish coffee roaster Origin, a ‘really great’, small company which shares Joe’s approach and culture and whose directors go and visit the coffee farmers themselves and assess their costs in order to give them a fair price. Joe

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20/02/2014 17:10:00

Pictures by Matt Austin

and be too bitter.” explains that the term Fairtrade has sadly lost its meaning lately, There is even a complexity to the milk foam. with the minimum required percentage of profit returned to the “It should be a really smooth, creamy, silky consistency,” Joe farmers barely covering costs. educates. “We don’t heat the milk as hot as some of the big chains Their bespoke blend combines Brazilian and Argentine beans. It’s do, so it retains maximum sweetness and compliments the flavour called Farmer 30, because 30 per cent of the profit from the beans’ of the coffee. It needs to be 76 degrees. We’re happy to make it buying price goes directly to the farmer who cultivated them. extra hot if people ask, but we try to offer what will taste the best.”

“People may pay 20p more for a cup of coffee here than from In addition to good coffee, the lunchtime range is artisan, fresh the global chains,” Joe continues, “but they’re getting really good baguettes and salads, with locally sourced ingredients and made on coffee which has been built on sustainable relationships,” he adds, the premises, bread and all. explaining that they pay far more for their coffee to ensure its At 6pm, the ambiance swiftly shifts from coffee shop to bar, lights genuine fair trade credentials. are dimmed and the food counter is filled with craft beers. The “We’re establishing relationships with farmers who will soon start evening line-up is as important to Joe creating bespoke blends for us,” he says. as his coffee. The boss has spent hours For the more discerning coffee drinker, researching who to stock and is hoping to Artigiano also has a single estate option.

It’s called Farmer 30, because forge direct links with the producers soon.

“This changes every month depending on the season of the countries where the bean 30 per cent of the profit from The evening concept revolves around provision of a relaxed environment is grown. And this will alter the flavour.” Joe the beans’ buying price goes the for after works drinks and beyond, with says, likening the shrewd complexity behind directly to the farmer who mezze-style sharing plates, boutique type coffee to being a ‘little bit like wine’. wines, and four craft beers set to come on “I have a passion for good food and good cultivated them. tap. coffee, but have now really delved into the “When I lived in Nice, people would love spending time in nice depths,” he adds, before informing me that of equal importance coffee shops which would turn into bars after dark,” Joe says. “And to the quality of the beans is the sensitive and savvy approach a I used to think, why isn’t the UK like this, when 6pm to 9pm is the barista must take in the coffee’s extraction process. His baristas, he best time of the day? says proudly, ‘dial in’ (checking the variables such as the consistency “We saw Exeter as a huge opportunity,” he continues. “Having spent of the coffee grain and the temperature of the water, all which can time living in London, I always felt Exeter is hugely up-and-coming. make or break a cup of coffee), every so often throughout the day Our uptake has been phenomenally strong and the demand is ensuring its continued quality for his customers. definitely there.

“If you get a coffee and it tastes bitter or watery, it’s not because it’s “We could have gone further out of the centre but we felt so bad coffee but because it hasn’t been poured right,” Joe continues. strongly that the location was critical for our model and I was “Our baristas dial in the grinders three times a day to make sure determined to hold out for the high street. There are really good it’s the right consistency, so when it comes through the machine it independents out there but rarely in the high street. We want to comes through with the right dosage and time. work hard to maintain the quality of an independent.

“Coffee will come out anywhere between 15 and 90 seconds, but it “You can have a really great business, or not, depending on needs to be around the 30 second mark,” Joe says. “We put 19g of coffee in the basket, the water is 93 degrees, and we know our shots location. When this came up it was a no brainer.

“Competition is good, because it means there’s a market out there, need to come out in 26 seconds. If it’s too coarse it will come out and people have a choice and we have to work hard to be that too quickly and be too watery or if it’s too fine it will take too long

“

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choice.

“You have to be better at everything and work really hard to get that strength of brand.

“But there’s a real popularity and support for local traders at the moment, and I think if you do something different and do it well and don’t let people down, then they’ll support you.”

Joe’s cousins run the Paternoster Square and New Oxford Street bars, and his Exeter head barista, former school pal and transport engineering manager Charlie Stead, is set to become a joint venture business partner in the near future with plans to open another South West location.

“Now we do fun jobs,” they glance at each other and laugh.

Joe Hill with Exeter store manager Matt Williamson

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21/02/2014 09:55:09

Late night Not that us ladies ever need an excuse to shop, but Princesshay has the perfect reason to indulge in some retail therapy by hosting an exclusive late night shopping event.

More than 30 retailers and restaurants within the Exeter shopping centre have united for the Treat Yourself & We’ll Treat You event, offering pampering and exciting offers.

Taking place on Thursday, March 27, from 6pm to 9pm, ladies across Exeter are invited to partake in a free evening where they will be rewarded just for shopping at Princesshay.

Many retailers including GAP, New Look, River Island, Saltrock and Hobbs will be offering a discount of up to 20 per cent.

The Princesshay Style Clinic will showcase the latest collections from a selection of retailers on the night, including Reiss.

Trained stylists from Saks will give consultations and free hair styling, while Princesshay’s beauty retailers will be on hand with complimentary treatments and product advice on latest beauty trends, including Cath

Enter and win

spoils

Kidston nail art.

Style consultations, sample and refreshments will be on offer in some shops. Treat Zones will be located throughout the centre issuing a selection of goodies.

The Treat Yourself event also offers shoppers the chance to create their very own Glamour magazine cover to share on Facebook or take home in a 6x4 print. Shoppers will need to spend over £25 in one transaction and present their receipt to receive the photo shoot.

There will also be the chance for shoppers to enter competitions to win handbags, shoes, vouchers and more on the night.

Event organiser Hannah Overton said: “This shopping evening is packed with fabulous offers, fashion must-haves and makeovers not to be missed.

“This one night only event is the perfect excuse to indulge in guilt-free shopping to get your wardrobe ready for the coming season.”

Shoppers who register for the free event in advance, being run in association with Glamour.com, will receive a token to exchange for a complimentary treat on the night.

One lucky EX reader is being offered the chance to enjoy a VIP experience with a friend at Princesshay’s Treat Yourself & We’ll Treat You event.

The prize includes two £50 Princesshay gift cards; a glass of fizz and canapés at Strada in an exclusive VIP area, a beauty goody bag and a glamour photo shoot each.

To enter simply answer the following question: When is the Treat Yourself & We’ll Treat You being held?

Send your answer on a postcard, along with your name, address and telephone number to: Princesshay Competition, c/o Anita Merritt, EX, Heron Road, Sowton Ind Est, Exeter, EX2 7NF, or email it to amerritt@expressandecho.co.uk The closing date is Monday, March 17. Usual terms and conditions apply.

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Don’t miss:

John Lewis Fashion Show Bringing the latest spring and summer fashions to the catwalk during an unmissable evening is Exeter department store John Lewis.

Its stock changes so much that the clothes won’t be picked until the week before the show at Exmouth Pavilion on Thursday, March 20.

But what the retailer can reveal is the styles will include outerwear, sportswear, holiday/ beach wear, casual wear and occasional wear.

The John Lewis Charity Fashion Show, being held in aid of Hospiscare Exmouth and Lympstone and Rotary Charities, will also feature a demonstration by internationally renowned hairdresser Daniel K Neaves.

The show starts at 7pm and tickets cost between £12 and £14, and includes a glass of Bucks Fizz. For tickets call 01395 222477 or visit www.ledtickets. co.uk

The catwalk looks are yet to be selected, but expect high levels of chic, as pictured here 36

24/02/2014 11:24:05

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20/02/2014 15:38:18

If she’s your rock...

Fantastic ‘vivid’ green rare Columbian emerald and diamond octagon cut cluster ring. £16,500. Ivor Doble Jewellers 01392 272226 or 01392 422847.

Simply stunning large diamond solitaire mounted in a classic six claw setting, set in platinum. Brilliant cut diamond weighs 4.24 cts. £47,000. Ivor Doble Jewellers 01392 272226 or 01392 422847.

The Mother hen Mother Hen pendant.

Rose gold plate on sterling silver. By Alex Monroe, £125. (also available in all silver) Polka Dot, 01392 276 500.

Take wing Bright and colourful brooches. By Melanie Tomlinson. Made from tin. £37 each. Polka Dot, 01392 276500.

mother

of all gifts

Choose your favourite from our selection of the best finds in town for guaranteed delight this Mother’s Day

Make a statement Elisa Cavaletti Necklace Style: SE05503 £85 A unique statement necklace featuring flower embellishments, entwined leather and chain.

A great accessory to dress up any outfit. Available online at www.exivboutique.co.uk or in store. 01392 213111

Award winning pampering This luxurious salt scrub melts on contact with skin to leave it beautifully soft and nourished. Mineral rich salts and hibiscus cleanse and exfoliate, whilst an infusion of exotic Tahitian Monoi oil and frangipani flowers seal in moisture. Skin is left delicately fragranced.

The perfect Mother’s Day gift , or to 38

MothersDay.indd 1

use before your holiday. £36.50 Special Care and Awareness: Please store out of direct sunlight to minimise natural colour variation.

Skin Type: All Quantity: 480g Heyford House Day Spa 01884 35554

EX 03/14 21/02/2014 16:20:51

season

wedding Our gift to you, a collection of Exeter’s finest service providers Will Dolphin Wedding Photography

Wedding fairs • Venues • Getting to the church • Finding the perfect dress • Photographers

EX 03/14 WeddingSection.indd 1

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20/02/2014 16:26:47

fun to

Pictures by GRW Photography

moved

Prepare to be Historic city landmarks don’t get much more interesting than Exeter’s legendary House That Moved. It attracts visitors from far and wide every year, but it’s not just sightseers and historians who flock there. For more than 20 years it has been a bridal shop and is now under new ownership Like many first time visitors to Exeter, Tania Gill-Jones had never heard the story about the House That Moved. The discovery was made while she was still living in Kent and was looking to buy a business in the South West.

The search stopped as soon as she saw Pirouette – a longestablished bridal business in the old West Quarter of Exeter which has helped hundreds of brides achieve their fairytale happy ending since it was established in 1980.

It is renowned for stocking some of the best bridal designers such as the internationally acclaimed Maggie Sottero, Sottero & Midgley, Temperley and YolanCris.

“At present, we are getting our new season collection in as we speak which includes vintage inspired colours, embellished designs and 40

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beautiful lace and organza fairytale gowns. The look at the moment is very glamorous.

“The quality and finish of our collection is second to none. A lot are corseted which gives the bride a fantastic shape and structure.

“Our YolanCris collection is very appealing. The designers are based in Barcelona where there dresses are also manufactured, and their creations are innovative and totally different, using shapes and fabrics and are ever changing. Their collections range from bohemian laid back styles to classic cut sleek ‘50s screen sirens.

“Our new Sottero & Midgley collection is outstanding, and are another team of designers who dress the female shape to perfection using low cut backs, lots of beading and soft gold colours.”

The Pirouette range is forever changing, but that’s probably the only

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fun together is really special

History:

The House that Moved

med merchant’s house was The 16th-century timber-fra Street, but was moved to originally sited at 16 Edmund 1 to make way for a road Stepcote Hill on rollers in 196 development . site where it now stands The building that occupied the ond World War. was destroyed during the Sec

change you’ll notice since Tania has taken over.

“It’s fantastic that brides come to Pirouette because of the reputation that has been built up over the years,” says Tania.

“It was such a fantastic opportunity to take over an already fantastic business that I moved my family here from Kent last May and then took over the business in November. It’s been really exciting – and really hard work!

“It’s a special business to be involved in, and we feel honoured to share and be part of a bride’s big day.

Our brides love to re-visit the shop with photos, which we display in the shop.

“You are part of their journey from the very beginning when they walk in and don’t know what they want, to when they leave having found the perfect dress.”

What’s also different is the look and feel of the 16th century merchants house which makes Pirouette unique from any other bridal shop in Exeter. For Tania the shop is as special as her brides.

“When I first set eyes on the house I thought it looked so unique,” recalls Tania. “There are lots of bridal shops that look lovely and plush, but this is something very special.

“You don’t need an appointment but it is highly recommended as our ethos is to give our brides an intimate private appointment where they can try a range of styles and accessories with our staff.

Not everyone wants to get changed with everyone looking at them.

“We have a relaxed atmosphere here but it can be an emotional moment when the right dress is found!”

The importance of finding the right dress is a top priority at Pirouette and is coupled with lots of fun at the same time.

Tania says: “What makes my job so worthwhile is when they find that dress they really love.

“We look at the bride’s body shape and their personality. What’s also important is the bride has fun picking her dress.

“Our team of seamstresses customise your gown if required. We also offer a bespoke service for making jackets, belts and handmade headpieces.”

Pirouettes stocks a selection of shoes from Rainbow Club, veils and tiaras, and handmade jewellery and headpieces from Kye Tew. The Pirouette team have all been with the business for many years, including manager Marian Couch

who has worked in the industry for more than 14 years.

In the future, a new addition to the staff could be Tania’s 17-year-old daughter, who is studying fine art, textiles and photography at Exeter College, and could possibly be keen to pursue a career in the bridal industry.

Pirouette The House That Moved 24 West Street Exeter 01392 432643 www.pirouettethecollection.com Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm (Sunday and late evening appointments are available on request)

EX 03/14 WeddingSection.indd 3

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LOVE Well, then pop into one of these gorgeous collections of the best of South West bridal Sigma Studios

Sunday

23

a fair?

t him along How to:BarTemp will be serving a

March

Abode’s Cafe one who roast dinner @ £9.95 for any ween bet d foo for would like to stay .

3pm noon and

10am – 4pm

Lord Mayors Charity Wedding Fair The Lord Mayor’s Charity Wedding Fayre is in aid of the Lord Mayor’s chosen charity, ATAXIA UK. Ataxia is a group of neurological disorders that affect balance, coordination, and speech.

We will be holding a raffle, where the winner will receive a free wedding in the Guildhall.

We have Pirouette-The House That Moved exhibiting, along with some hair, beauty, photography and dental stands!

Sunday

16

March

11am – 4pm

Abode Exeter Wedding Fayre Come and join us at ABode Exeter, consider this beautiful historic venue with its fabulous food for your wedding day, while meeting our suppliers and getting ideas for your special day. Bedroom tours available on request. Refreshments and lunch available in the MC Café Bar and Grill.

For further information, please call 01392 319 955.

Oh,my deer

The Deer Park specialises in fun, original, made-to-measure weddings. Their utterly delectable 18th century Georgian house is licensed for civil ceremonies and is perfect for exclusive use weddings, accommodating up to 60 wedding guests in the main house for intimate celebrations and up to 130 guests.

Deer Park hosts free wedding fairs held in association with Blue Fizz Events.

Meet our delightful wedding coordinators and get some inspiration for your special day.

Thursday

Thursday

13

March

6pm – 8.30pm

Spring Vintage Wedding Fair

5

June

6pm – 8.30pm

Colour Pop Wedding Festival

Thursday

18September 6pm – 8.30pm

Late Summer Garden Party

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EX 03/14 20/02/2014 16:36:57

DOCUMENTARY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY - TELLING YOUR STORY...

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Then we take the best photographers the region has to offer.

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The result: A magazine sharply focused on celebrating the diverse beauties of our area, that is a pleasure to look at, and a reward to read.

21/02/2014 11:05:42

A sophisticated start Gemini Taxi’s silver-liveried fleet will sweep you off your feet on your big day.

Gemini Taxis combine elegance with efficiency through their wedding car service. “Our fleet is handpicked,” says business development manager Steve Screech. “A selection of silver-liveried luxury vehicles are on hand to add a touch of uncompromising class to your big day.” Being a long established local company means

that Gemini knows that its clients demand value for money along with this sought after high end service. “Brides can start to feel that as soon as they mention the word ‘wedding’, the price skyrockets,” says Steve. “This simply isn’t the case with us. A lot of the time brides come to us with a quote that they got from someone else, and we

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WeddingSection.indd 6

Mix and Match

collections from casual to wedding wear

EX 03/14 21/02/2014 11:15:26

Stunning designer collections in an amazing location can halve it, without compromising on any of her wishes.”

Gemini have been offering the service for the past seven years, and the result is a team of drivers who know every inch of the territory and who are guaranteed to get you to the church on time. The cars are guaranteed to arrive sparkling, and adorned with ribbons and bows as a standard part of the service. The chauffeurs always look equally immaculate. “We always do our best to fulfil any special requests you may have,” says Steve. “This is your day, and if we can enhance it in any way possible just let us know.”

The fleet comprises of a matching Mercedes E-class, a BMW 5 series duo, a Jaguar XF (with a matching partner in the pipeline) as well as a Mercedes Vito Traveliner and a VW transporter shuttle. “We allow people first and second choices for their big day,” says Steve. “And with the selection we have on offer it really is a win-win situation.”

“A fair amount of research went into the selection, we started with Mercedes as they were most customers’ definition of excellence, and then we expanded with the BMW and the Jaguar after chatting to clients about their preferences.”

The team at Gemini can move up to 40 people as a part of a wedding party without turning a hair, and all the passengers are sure to enjoy the satisfaction that comes with travelling with a company dedicated to reducing Exeter’s carbon footprint. “We have a large fleet of eco cars available,” says Steve. “We have just added our 100th vehicle to the line-up and are proud to be able to offer them as a part of any service, be it executive, city travel, or even to the environmentallyconscious bride.”

For more information visit www.geminiweddingcars.co.uk

In The House That Moved 24 West St, Exeter, Devon EX1 1BA Phone 01392 432643 www.pirouettethecollection.com

EX 03/14 WeddingSection.indd 7

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21/02/2014 11:16:18

Pictures by GRW Photography

starts here

Happily ever after For two decades, Exeter’s The Bridal Emporium has been dressing women for the starring role in their very own love story. Kathryn Clarke-Mcleod meets the sisters who wave the magic wand The Bridal Emporium is a double storey delight nestled on Exeter’s bustling Fore Street. Those who step inside are instantly whisked away to a kingdom where formal frivolity reigns supreme. It is, surely, as close as an adult woman can get to that magical Disneyland feeling. This is a place where magic is possible, where princes marry princesses and live happily ever after, and where dresses are given the place of honour they deserve. As I look around I see them in every imaginable shade, length and style, beckoning from the rainbow of rails found in the downstairs section. The ground floor belongs to the bridesmaids, flower girls, and even contains elegant occasion wear for the mother of the bride. On shelves, shoes in a tantalising array of styles encourage a closer look, and there is even a darling nook dedicated to Christening wear, ensuring that even the earliest special occasion of our lives are catered for.

A trip up the staircase is like ascending into the clouds at dawn. Soft white tulles and silks dominate the horizon, wisps of gold, hints of sparkles and incandescent pearl shades add to the breath-taking beauty while delicate lace adds an element of intricate detail to the otherworldly scene. Oversized windows allow natural light to stream in and bathe the rows of gowns, while in front of a full length mirror 46

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a pedestal awaits. This area is designed to ensure that those who visit feel like a queen long before their big day begins.

Behind the scenes, sisters Jenny Billington and Trisha Pulman have been making dreams come true at The Bridal Emporium for the past twenty years.

A classic tale of two women following their dreams, the sisters first set up shop in Princesshay two decades ago, and then five years later made the move to Fore Street. Before joining forces, Trisha specialised in silk flower bouquets and made-to-measure headdresses. Jenny meanwhile, ran her own made-to-measure wedding dress business after studying fashion design at Somerset College. “It was a natural progression for both of us,” says Jenny. “We both had love of fabric, design and texture, and by then both had a background in the bridal industry.” Their favourite part of the job 20 years later? It’s still seeing the thrill on a bride’s face that comes with finding ‘the one’; in a bridal shop context this means the perfect dress… not Mr Right! “But we have had cases when we have sold a wedding dress to a lady even before she has known her groom-tobe!”

Having experienced the bridal landscape over such a significant period of time makes the pair uniquely skilled when it comes to

EX 03/14 20/02/2014 16:42:29

choosing a dress that is both timeless and modern. “We have seen it all,” says Trisha. “Twenty years ago there was only really one single ‘type’ of wedding dress. Now the array is endless, and includes separate pieces you can use to make your look uniquely your own from headpieces to jackets. We attend the top trade bridal fairs every year to select our range from the best in the world, it’s a daunting task but one those years of experience makes easier. ” The Bridal Emporium stocks creations from amongst others, Mori Lee, Mark Lesley, Phil Collins, Olivia Grace (designed by British bridal wear designer Jennifer Anne Gibbs) and homegrown Devon brand Romantica.

“All our dresses are available in size 8 to 28/30,” says Jenny. “Prices start from £295 for a simple gown and range up to £1,600, so there really is something for everyone.”

However, even the vast array on offer at The Bridal Emporium need not dictate the parameters of your wedding day look. The advantage of having skilled seamstresses at your disposal means that the gowns on offer can be customised to ensure you don’t have to compromise on a single element of your dream dress.

“Whether you need a neckline transformed, embellishment added or removed, or sleeves reconstructed we do it all,” says Jenny. “Best of all, we don’t send your dress away to get altered, it all gets done under this roof. The customising and alterations service is a great complement to our impressive range and we can also sometimes offer this service to customers who haven’t actually bought from us. It’s also worth mentioning that we will store your dress free of charge until your big day.”

It’s easy to see why the five fitting rooms upstairs sometimes aren’t enough on a Saturday. “Even with eight staff on hand we have our hands full,” says Trisha. “Appointments are recommended but not essential; we never turn anyone away. If you want a quieter and more serene experience we definitely recommend making one for a weekday, although the vibe in here on a Saturday is fantastic, the bustle of dresses and the sound of Champagne corks popping are quite electric.”

Shopping for ‘the one’ is an integral part in the build up to any wedding, and the team at The Bridal Emporium endeavour to ensure this magical day lives up to their bride’s expectations. “Our changing rooms are spacious, with lots of room for us to help you dress, “says Jenny. “If necessary, we can quickly make any temporary nips and tucks to the dress to get it to hug your body perfectly, so that your first view is always a perfect fit.”

The internet is a great resource for wedding planning, but nothing compares to choosing your dress using your own senses. “We have had more than a few brides come in with a dress they bought online that just didn’t live up to their expectations, which definitely

steals some of the sparkle from their day. Of course, we are always happy to help them, for example selecting from our range of underwear that helps with the fit. Some have even been so unhappy with their internet purchase they have bought a brand new dress from us!”

The team aim to make the path to happily ever after a smooth one. British-made Liza tiaras, Miranda Templeton headwear and British-made Joyce Jackson veils in a variety of lengths, even an impressive array of lingerie and shape wear add the finishing touches to bridal perfection. The wedding party will also be polished to perfection. “We dye shoes, bags and cravats to match chosen colours and are always on hand to give advice.”

It seems an undeniable reality that brides who fall under the enchantment of The Bridal Emporium have a dream-like experience from start to finish. From the moment they step inside on their quest to find their ultimate gown to the day they don it, eyes glittering and surrounded by perfectly co-ordinating lovedones, to marry their prince charming.

Get in touch!

The Bridal Emporium EX4 3HY 105-106 Fore Street Exeter Tel:01392 493814 m.co.uk Email: mail@bridalemporiu

EX 03/14 WeddingSection.indd 9

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20/02/2014 16:42:52

Fresh faced beauty

beautiful

Re-create the flush of love for your walk down the aisle. Lancome’s Limited Spring Edition Blush Highlighter is in the form of a beautifully embossed rose. Sweep onto the apples of your cheeks for a fresh, pink glow, £35 (www.lancome.co.uk).

Big day

Creating that perfect look for your wedding day – includes getting the preparation right. Make yourself feel like a million dollars with some indulgent beauty loving beforehand.

Sweet matrimony Show your body some love with Baylis & Harding’s Limited Edition Strawberries & Cream five-piece gift set to make you smell good enough to eat, £18 (Tesco).

United in...

Show your big day make-up the love it deserves with a new designer home. Love Mosch-’s Peace And Love Multi Coloured Cosmetic Bag is worthy of your best red lippies, £49 (House of Fraser).

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EX 03/14 24/02/2014 09:56:46

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21/02/2014 11:19:58

Wake up

tired

eyes

Owner of state-of-the art Radiance MediSpa in Exeter, Ros Debenham has 22 years experience as a GP and is now a renowned aesthetic doctor.

Tired of looking tired? Dr Ros Debenham has the reasons behind tired eyes and the solutions There is nothing worse than being told you look tired when you have had a good eight hours sleep and feel raring to go. This tired look is associated with looking older which is not want you want. The eye area and mid-face are the areas we focus on most when we are speaking to each other so it is the area to address first when considering treatments.

In the UK we spend millions of pounds on ‘cover up’ products. Most of these are whitish in colour, whereas a peachy colour, similar to the Circle Delete product from Jane Iredale’s make-up collection is the one to hide the darkness.

In fact, light coloured products often draw attention to the area rather than away from it. Think about light highlighter pencils we use to emphasise the brows and cheek areas.

We can look tired at any age but the reasons are very different. Sometimes we have dark blue or purple discolouration to the skin under the eyes. This can be due to tiredness or dehydration which can be addressed. However, as we get older, it is more common and is due to the fact that our skin gets thinner from the lack of collagen production in the skin. When the skin is thinner, the small veins underneath the surface become more visible and make us look tired. Vitamin A taken orally and Vitamin A creams used topically help stimulate skin to produce collagen and hence make it thicker, therefore dark circles are reduced. Products such as Jane Iredale’s Dark Circle & ZO eye cream, that you can’t buy on the high street, are excellent.

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The other reason for looking tired is having ‘sunken eyes’ or ‘eye bags’ which is due to enlarged orbital margins meaning that the holes in the skull for the eyes become larger.

Some people are born with naturally larger orbital margins but everyone eventually experiences the loss of bone around the eyes – it’s inevitable.

Even people who have had surgical facelifts will not have this problem resolved. The only treatment for this is dermal fillers.

Dermal fillers, such as Juvederm & Restylane, are hyaluronic acid which is present naturally in our skin but reduces in volume with age. Injecting the dermal fillers into the affected area helps to rebuild this volume, restoring that youthful look, and the results are instant.

The treatment involves numbing the area under the eyes with a cream followed by piercing the skin with a tiny needle. Tiny amounts of dermal filler are slowly placed under the skin to fill the area. The results are significantly different while still natural looking.

The product typically lasts about a year and for many people is the best investment they make in their appearance. It helps to change a tired to look into a rejuvenated, wakeful one.

As patients regularly say to me: “I wear my face every day. Why shouldn’t I look after it?”

Radiance MediSpa Lower Ground Floor, Augustus House, New North Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4HL www.RadianceMediSpa.co.uk 01392 277799 51

20/02/2014 16:47:17

Art festival Exeter Open Studios returns for its eighth year and is packed with exhibits created by more than 100 painters, illustrators, sculptors, jewellers and ceramicists which will be on display at almost 60 venues across the city.

The three-day event will run from Friday, March 28, to Sunday, March 30, and EX has picked out some of the highlights taking place. EOS, dubbed a festival of creativity, gives art lovers and buyers an exclusive peek into their creative lives of local artists in their homes, work or a gallery. For a full list of events visit www.exeteropenstudios.co.uk

Electric

& eclectic Ben Yates

Venue: Exeter Contemporary Arts Hub, 25 Manor Road, St Thomas, Exeter EX4 1EN Bringing a whole new meaning to the word unique is Ben Yates, who combines photography with sculpture to produce new ideas, concepts and applications of the art form.

The 35 year old from St Leonard’s, Exeter, will premiere the latest addition to his Electri-Cities series – installations of cityscapes made from circuit boards inside acrylic and glass coffee tables.

A closer look inside the Perspex table reveals a working stereo and tiny figures which Ben describes as inhabiting a futuristic world, bathed in a multi-coloured glow.

Revealing what awaits visitors, Ben said: 52

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“Electri-City Mountain is number 22 in the series and is larger and more complex than any other single piece of mine to date. It has taken six months to complete.

“It’s a circular tiered mountain with different styles of city on each level, built inside an octagonal coffee table, with integrated lighting advanced enough to not be available in the UK. “With the exceptions of the lighting, table and the tiny people, the materials are all recycled, mostly circuitry still, but also other bits and pieces such as up-cycled toys and the large piece of moulded plastic I found in a skip that the city is built on.

“I've also started paying more attention to the little people; painting and adding to them myself so they appear to be of other-worldly demographics such as uniformed maintenance crews, cyberpunks, steampunks, aliens, even full blown cyborgs with bionic limbs. I want them to be as detailed as the circuitry they stand on.

EX 03/14 21/02/2014 11:49:23

See a list of the artists and venues taking part in the Exeter Open Studios  “In the past people have asked if I based my cities on anywhere real. This is a project where I've tried to reach as far from reality as possible.”

Having studied engineering and drama, Ben brings those influences to bear on his work. His mini cityscapes bring to mind the dystopian cinematic world of Blade Runner and Fritz Lang’s groundbreaking Metropolis, as well Ben Electri-City Mountain as Yates’ displaying an engineer’s fascination with the intricate inner workings of electronics, or as Ben puts it, ‘the aesthetics of circuitry’.

However, the Electri-Cities are only one aspect of Ben’s work. He has also developed what he terms ‘photocubism’. From a miniature world to 3D pictures, Ben is an art magpie where a photograph, or a collection of photographs, is mounted on a polyurethane base made up of a series of blocks of varying depths.

The combination of photography with a hand-made sculptural mount gives the photographic work an added dimension and a different experience depending on the viewpoint.

“It’s a method of displaying a variety of small pictures in one artwork, gelling them together in an abstract colour study from a distance, but up close is an almost infinite amount of detail and can tell a very personal story.”

Ben has utilised his massive photographic archive of more than 40,000 images to create works like The Ringleader. Hundreds of images – 975 to be exact – have been arranged by colour, shade and shape to form a completely different image, in this case Sonic the Hedgehog.

Ben said: “Most of my work is inspired by computer graphics or science fiction – images that you might see in films or advertising but never actually given a physical form. My artwork is all about making the impossible real.”

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Devon Artist Network Venue: Exeter Northcott Theatre Enjoy a broad range of styles and materials in a varied and vibrant show produced by members of the Devon Artist Network. The exhibition runs until April 27.

Exeter Contemporary Arts Hub

Venue: 25 Manor Road, St Thomas, Exeter, EX4 1EN The city’s new space for creativity is where arts, craft and design co-exist under one roof. It offers open plan studios and acts as a platform for showcasing teaching, inspiring and making.

Gloss-Art Exeter Barnfield Crescent, Exeter

The gallery based in Barnfield Crescent will host the launch of EOS on Thursday, March 27, from 6pm to 9pm.

It is also showcasing work by a selection of EOS artists for the public to help choose the venues they want to visit.

Rachel Jamieson Venue: Age UK Exeter, 138 Cowick Street, Exeter, EX4 1HS

Faces of older people, drawing on her work with Age UK Exeter, along with those of friends and neighbours are the subject of Rachael’s work. She uses oil paint to explore different ways of capturing an individual's unique character.

t Alasdair Urquar Venue: 17 Maple Rd, St Thomas, Exeter, EX4 1BN The artist, writer, poet and illustrator is known for his paintings which depict richly detailed scenes and reflect his own deep interest in the lives of people and their work.

Alasdair says: “The style of my art has a figurative, colourful element which is a partial response to the visual impressions received.”

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EX 03/14 21/02/2014 11:50:26

Not Op en S tudios Exeter During the run up to, EOS artists are teaming up with NOSE, an event that runs during the same weekend and acts as a platform for more conceptual creatives. It focuses on building relationships between artists and the local community, and students at Exeter University.

Sylvia Llecha

Jeremy Sp eck

The Old Dairy, West Town Farm, Ide, EX2 9TG

Venue: Hope Hall, Hope Road, Exeter, EX2 5JN

Going by the quirky name Uglydesign, Sylvia is a designermaker working mostly in ceramics and surface pattern. Her preoccupations are about everyday life and domesticity.

The work of Jeremy ranges from graphic imagery inspired by the German Expressionists through to geometric abstracts, where colours and shapes are overlaid to achieve a balanced and contemplative composition.

n

S tephen Henderso Venue: EVA Studios, Marsh Gate House, Alphinbrook Road, Exeter, EX2 8TH

Rosy Tydeman Venue: 3 Exe View Cottages, Canal Banks, Exeter, EX2 8DY Surprises and reminders of everyday extraordinariness and the delight of being alive is what you can find in Rosy’s work.

Captured moments of love and whimsy are expressed in textiles, colours, soft clocks and other curiosities.

Kenson Low

Venue: EVA Studios, Marsh Gate House, Alphinbrook Road, Exeter, EX2 8TH For more than 20 years, Kenson has been producing artwork professionally as an artist, illustrator, designer, concept artist and prop designer and builder. He works in both traditional and digital media and boasts an impressive list of clients including EMI Records and Games Workshop.

Isabel Merrick Naomi Hart Venue: Hope Hall, Hope Road, Exeter, EX2 5JN Colour and light in nature are Naomi’s main inspirations. Her paintings, drawings, sketchbooks and cards will be on display.

Venue: St David's Community Centre, 17 St David’s Hill, Exeter, EX4 3RG Isabel has been self-employed as a potter and painter for 18 years. She says: “Living in the heart of the Devon countryside, my designs have become mini-landscapes of my surroundings and the local coastlines, which have been a great source of inspiration.”

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Highly detailed oil paintings of Exeter and the surrounding landscape is what you can expect from this popular Devon artist. Selected drawings and prints are also available.

Siobhan Martin Venue: St David's Community Centre, 17 St David’s Hill, Exeter, EX4 3RG As a book artist, most of Siobhan’s work involves using properties of the book in some format; sometimes using sequence, structure or creating something that can be 'read'.

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21/02/2014 11:50:51

SOCIAL DIARY

//

From left, Steve Dalzell, Ed Perrott and Adam Myers

From left, Griff, Julie, Paul and Lisa

From left, Josie JK, Andrew and Adam

From left, Robin Mepstead, Leigh Mardon, Terri Doick, Rosy Painter, Agata Sawicka and Ed Holbrook

Hole in the Wall

From left, John Cartwright, Elle Birt, Dave Maylon, Emma Ellis, Liam Ellis, Steve PinkertonClark, Amy Pinkerton-Clark, Danny Potter, Toni Sadler and Gemma Gelder

The VIP relaunch of popular city centre bar The Hole in the Wall marked its recent transformation. Guests were served with a complimentary glass of bubbly on arrival and canapĂŠs. The highlight of the evening was a live performance from legendary Westcountry band The Wurzels. The venue in Little Castle Street has been taken over by the owner of Exeter nightclub Timepiece and Old Timers George Sloan and his business partner Rob Skinner.

The final phase of the refurbishment will include the opening of a jazz bar.

From left, Tina Franklin, Glen King and Anita Merritt

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From left, Emma, Theo, Rhys and Anouka

EX 03/14 20/02/2014 17:21:03

Robin Cousins’ Ice show launch On the opening night of Robin Cousins’ Ice at Westpoint Arena, more than 200 people came to the after-show party. The stars of the spectacular ice skating show joined press and local business people at the party where money was raised for Devon Air Ambulance Trust.

Alan Quick, Crediton Courier; Ashley Jeary, Radio Exe; Devon Air Ambulance Trust’s mascot Ambrosia; Andrew McNeilly, Guildhall Shopping Centre

Derek Phillips, Exeter Chamber of Commerce, and Richard Ball, Exeter City Council

Devon Air Ambulance Trust volunteers with Robin Cousins’ Ice skater Philippe Poirier

Ed Dolman and Lucy Warren, Global Radio; Claire Suliauskas and Tony Curtis

Jane and Graham Godbeer, East Devon District Council; Deborah Custance Baker

Caroline Erd and Emma Connett

Lord Mayor Councillor Rachel Lyons and Lord Mayor’s Consort Chrstine Raybold-Gooding

Maureen Scott, Jean Kingdon, Tammy Falloon and Janet Flinn

Richard Maunder, Westpoint; Jilly Greed, One voice Media & PR; Graham Cheriton

Robin Cousins’ Ice skaters Brandee Malto, Neill Shelton, Natalie Cunningham, Vaughn Chipeur and Jenna Smith

Alun and Marcy Sands

Jilly Greed, One Voice Media & PR; Lisa Brewin, Robin Cousins’ Ice

Nichola Hartley and Marion Harbison – Exiv Boutique

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20/02/2014 17:21:33

SOCIAL DIARY

//

Michael Caines’ food festival tasting event In preparation for this year’s 11th Exeter Festival of South West Food & Drink, festival co-founder Michael Caines met with a selection of 2014 festival producers to try some of this year’s taste sensations for himself. From salted caramel macaroons to smoked lamb prosciutto, he identified some must-try flavours for visitors to discover at this year’s festival being held at Exeter Castle and Northernhay Gardens from April 25 to 27.

Shute Fruit

Michael Caines with festival producers

Naomi Dymond, corporate partnerships fundraiser for Children’s Hospice South West; Rhiannon Bates, Brewin Dolphin Exeter; Kye Tew, Kye Tew Jewellery; Karen Pike

Charity Drop & Shop Wealth management company Brewin Dolphin in Exeter organised a Drop & Shop to launch Children’s Hospice South West as its new Charity of the Year and raise money. Team members arranged collection days for unwanted clothes, jewellery, toys and homeware from local office staff based at Pynes Hill. A temporary shop was set up in the office with delicious homemade cakes and tea for sale and raised £500. Unsold items were taken to the two charity shops in Exeter to raise more money.

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Rhiannon Bates, Brewin Dolphin Exeter; Tracy Sparks, Francis Clark; Laura Jones, Glen King PR

John Crompton, divisional director; Bryan Riley, investment manager; Richard Pike, head of charities South and South West, all of Brewin Dolphin Exeter

Helen Curtis, Sally Chapman, Karen Arney and Rhiannon Bates, all Brewin Dolphin Exeter Caroline Barnes, Brewin Dolphin Exeter; John Crompton, divisional director Brewin Dolphin Exeter; Mandy Cornish, Lombard

Nick Jarvis and Jane Vigers, Lombard

EX 03/14 20/02/2014 17:21:58

Sam Johnson of Vickery Holman, Charisse Crawford of Stephens Scown and Claire Cochrane of Vickery Holman

Sian Lloyd of Stephens Scown, Zack Maiden of Stratton Creber, Mark Forsey of Stephens Scown and Freya Barnett of Savills

Law firm fun fair

Jessica O’Riordan and Justin Butt, both of Stephens Scown

Legal firm Stephens Scown ensured that its guests had all the fun of the fair at its annual gathering for local surveyors.

The event was held at its offices in Southernhay, Exeter, and was themed around a trip to the fair with side show games and prizes galore. The event was one in a variety of events organised by Stephens Scown to ensure that its clients and partner businesses have a chance to network.

James Baker of Strutt and Parker with Catherine Matthews of Stephens Scown

Nigel Edge of Stephens Scown with Lucy Back of Smiths and Gore

Dale of Jones Lang LaSalle with Chris Sexton of King Wilkinson and John Kinsey also of Jones Lang LaSalle

Alun Sands, Sands Consulting; Roger Davis, Topsham Technical Services; Stuart Monk, University of Exeter

Sophie Cocks, Environment Agency; Samantha Chidley, Exeter Science Park; Chloe Nielson, Environment Agency

ExIST event The quarterly Exeter’s Initiative for Science & Technology (ExIST) event was recently held at Flybe’s Training Academy. More than 100 people from the local science and technology community attended and listened to speakers from the Environment Agency, South West Water and the University of Exeter.

Robin Pearson and Bridget Williams, Environment Agency

EX 03/14 Social_diary.indd 4

Kath Murphy, University of Exeter; Lucy Hawkins and Tom Greenwood, Centre for Business & Climate Solutions

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24/02/2014 11:31:54

Josh Frape, Nick Byrom and Damian Hopley, The Rugby Players Association

SOCIAL DIARY

//

Andrew Smith, Prydis Legal; Glen King, Glen King PR and Marketing; Mark Newbery, Sapphire Living Space

Josh Frape, Nick Byrom and Damian Hopley, the Rugby Players Association)

Rugby career talk Retired rugby professionals and business leaders from Exeter attended an event organised by the Rugby Players’ Association to help explain to current stars of Exeter Chiefs that playing is not a career for life and to talk about the career challenges that they may face once they retire from the game. It was held at Sapphire Living Space in Topsham and guests enjoyed drinks and canapes, and were entertained with a food demonstration by Nick Crosley from VZUG.

Simon Cachia, Arbuthnot Latham & Co; Jack Arnott

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Nick Agg-Manning, Outdoor Adventure Consultants Ltd; Laura and Nick Sheepy, Vitra; Maggie Stacey, Outdoor Adventure Consultants Ltd

Nicky Dunn, Mango Personnel; Simon Girling, Girling Jones Ltd; Phil Sampson, Sampson Hall Limited; Tommy Hayes

Alex Brown , Jon Cadwell and Will Carrick Smith

EX 03/14 20/02/2014 17:22:45

Duncan will be here to celebrate the launch of a powerful new collection of originals including some vibrant paintings on glass, alongside his high-impact handembellished limited editions and exciting new sculpture.

Join us to view some of the most exhilarating new artwork of the year.

Untitled-3 1

21/02/2014 17:20:27

My sister Maddie with my new niece Isla

A vintage dress shoot at Southernhay House, Exeter, for seamstress La Di Da

A month in the life ....

Devon photographer Matt Austin

Sapphire Living Space in Topsham who were recently given 10/10 by a secret shopper survey

Spotted – a horse being rescued by the fire service in Newton Poppleford

The launch of the Trencherman’s Guide at Southernhay House, Exeter.

Pictured is the Trencherman’s Tipple Helmores Estate, Shobrooke Park

Lyme Regis

Bickleigh Castle’s Grand Tudor Ball

Michael Caines at Exeter College

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24/02/2014 11:33:28

When body meets

soul

Spirited, powerful, yet balanced in every way. Kathryn Clarke-Mcleod finds out why the all-new Mazda 3 has the makings of a champion Pictures by GRW Photography

that I admit to uttering the following words: My yoga mat goes in first. The door on “Want to dance Audi? Let’s go!” (I won) the new Mazda 3 closes noiselessly, and I and “Get your Beemer out of my way,” (it slide into the driver’s seat and take in the moved). sleek interior that cocoons me in athletic elegance. According to Autocar one in every When I reach my destination, I stand for a second and stroke the car’s gunmetal three Mazdas sold anywhere on the planet flanks while I wait for my heart rate to at the moment is a 3, and 48 hours later I normalise. Mazda’s ‘fun to drive’ reputation know why. is certainly alive and kicking in the 3, and My mat travels with me wherever I go, as when coupled with the intuitive intelligence since the age of 15 I have been a student built into every model of yoga. It began the combination is to rehabilitate a The Active sprinting injury Much like the average yoga potent.

Driving Display ensures (hamstring, three class attendee, or sprinter, that essential driving places, never ran as fast again), and the engine design of the information such as speed, turn by turn became a useful Mazda 3 is centred on navigation, and safety tool for curbing my competitive being lighter, stronger and warnings are on hand constantly. The ‘headsdrives. I’ve spent a more efficient up display’ crouches fair while drifting directly in the driver’s eyeline, so you can in a neutral and placid state as a result. keep an eye on speed and even enable lane However, less than an hour after getting departure warnings. The blind spot warnings behind the wheel of the 2L petrol Sport displayed on the rear view mirror when Nav version of this car, this has changed. indicating ensure that even those totally I ease on to the M5, and am immediately immersed in the race remain conscious of treated to a driving experience that is as the realities around them. precise as it is powerful. It’s the same feeling Much like the average yoga class attendee you get when the gun goes off for a 100m or sprinter, the engine design of the Mazda race and in the first few metres you know 3 is centred on being lighter, stronger the body and stride you have crafted with and more efficient. SKYACTIV technology countless hours of training is about to give delivers the ultimate ‘body meets soul the performance of a lifetime. Turns out, experience’. old habits die hard. It is with red cheeks

“

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EX 03/14 20/02/2014 16:03:35

EX 03/14 Mazda3.indd 2

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“

The lithe styling of the 3 is the product of the Kodo Soul of Motion design language, which focuses on capturing the instant in which energy becomes motion The SKYACTIV petrol engine offers performance coupled with outstanding fuel consumption and class leading CO2 emissions and economy, and the chassis that cocoons it lightweight and graceful, and provides the perfect balance of agility and stability.

The sense of a balanced design philosophy is inescapable, in both the interior and exterior of the car. The lithe styling of the 3 is the product of the Kodo Soul of Motion design language, which focuses on capturing the instant in which energy becomes motion.

Defined as a dense of dynamic poise, the streamlined body and sculpted edges of this Mazda embody a sense of fluid power.

The interior is defined by seamless curves,

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space, and integrated intelligence such as the 7� colour touch screen that houses navigation, communication, and a whole new level of web based connectivity. Within seconds my iPhone was paired, and all I had to do was issue a gentle request to allow the voice command feature to allow me to safely work my way through podcasts, social media accounts, playlists and even send text messages.

The question then is, can the raw power of a performance-focused athlete co-exisit with the sense of harmonious balance found in the yoga devotee? Ask the Seattle Seahawks, crowned NFL (American football, arguably one of the most physically demanding sports on the planet) Superbowl Champions

on February 2, and a team who integrated yoga into their winning training regime. It seems that when it comes to integrating force and finesse, the Mazda 3 keeps good company.

And for those of you not au fait with the sporting world, just think of the Mazda 3 as Naomi Campbell in a tracksuit: sporty, sophisticated, undeniably gorgeous, and with a backhand her rivals have come to fear.

Test drive the all-new Mazda 3 today at: Vospers Honiton Road*, Exeter EX1 3RS Tel:01392 203822

EX 03/14 20/02/2014 16:05:45

Beautiful inside and out: the sleek lines of the Mazda 3’s exterior combined with the intelligent elegance of the interior makes it a class leader.

EX 03/14 Mazda3.indd 4

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DEFY CONVENTION

TURNS OUT YOU CAN BUY GOOD LOOKS

ALL-NEW MAZDA3 120PS SE

From

£209 £500

per month

www.vospers-mazda.co.uk

Vospers Honiton Road

Honiton Road, Exeter, EX1 3RS. 01392 203800

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includes up to

Mazda Deposit Contribution

Retail sales only, subject to vehicle availability for vehicles registered between 01.01.14 and 31.03.14 at participating dealers. T&C apply. Examples shown: All-New Mazda3 120ps SE, £209 per month with a deposit of £3,845 and an Optional Final Payment of £7,470 is based on 6,000 miles per annum over 36 months on Mazda Personal Contract Purchase and includes dealer contribution. At the end of the agreement there are 3 options: (i) Renew: Part exchange the vehicle, where equity is available, (ii) Retain: Pay the Optional Final Payment to own the vehicle or (iii) Return the vehicle. Further charges may be made subject to the condition of the vehicle. Finance subject to status, 18s or over. Guarantee/Indemnity may be required. Mazda Financial Services RH1 1SR. Channel Islands excluded. We can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers. We may receive a commission from them for the introduction. Models shown: All-New Mazda3 120ps SE, OTR from £17,525. OTR price includes VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months’ road fund licence, first registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warranty and 3 years’ European roadside assistance. Test drives subject to applicant status and availability. Details correct at time of going to publication and may vary, e.g. if list price changes. Not available in conjunction with any other offer unless specified. Calls to Vospers may be recorded for training purposes.

The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results obtained through laboratory testing. These are provided for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your actual driving results.

The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the all-new Mazda3 range: Urban 37.7 (7.5) – 60.1 (4.7). Extra Urban 58.9 (4.8) – 80.7 (3.5). Combined 48.7 (5.8) – 72.4 (3.9). CO2 emissions (g/km) 135 – 104.

Information:

Car: All-new Mazda 3 Sport Nav Colour: Meteor Grey

Vital statistics: 120 brake horsepower 2L petrol 18” Alloy wheels Adaptive Front Lighting System Premium Bose Centrepoint surround-sound system with 9 speakers Black leather interior including driver’s seat power adjustment Tax from £20 per anum

Price: £22,150 (inc metallic paint, and optional extras such as leather seats and safety pack)

*My test drive was moved back by a few hours to accommodate a customer who wanted to take the new Mazda 3 for a spin. By the time I arrived to take my turn, he had bought it.

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21/02/2014 09:52:58

Meet the

makers When Kathryn Clarke-Mcleod ventured into the rural depths of Budleigh Salterton, she discovered a place where wood is lovingly transformed into luxurious pieces which will become tomorrow’s heirlooms.

She spoke to Dave Young and Ross Norgate about their bespoke furniture business

The way is shut. The Middle Earth words echo bizarrely in my ears as I contemplate the expanse of surging tidal water that separates me from the farm premises that houses handcrafted furniture makers Young and Norgate. I’ve barrelled my way across a sodden Devon towards Budleigh Salterton to visit the up and coming design duo, and appear to be thwarted in the very last mile.

I put in a damsel in distress call to the workshop, and they promise to dispatch someone to meet me at a safe point to guide me around the tide.

New Zealand-born Dave Young arrives in a Land Rover and I am led on a route that, even with the skies, river and sea in a temper, reminds me that Devon is an undeniably gorgeous place to live.

Inspiration is clearly in plentiful supply, and Young & Norgate haven’t let a drop go to waste, as evidenced by their growing stack of achievements including a Furniture Makers Design Guildmark, a coveted Bespoke Guildmark and an invitation to exhibit at the upcoming Design Shanghai event in China.

Upon arrival, Dave leads me into a characterful brick structure, and my first sensory experience upon entry is the slightly sweet and earthy scent of sawdust. “This is where we transform the wood,” says Dave in his distinctive lilt. Several refurbished 1950s and 60s machines stand to attention under his gaze. “They don’t make beds like this anymore,” he muses, patting a machine’s surface as one would a faithful steed. In all, there are no fewer than eight

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Pictures by Matt Austin

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“

There should be no compromise; something that looks good should work just as well

pieces of machinery stabled in the lower level. A craftsman brings one to life and the low roar that ensues sees us on our way.

The wood store is our next stop, where slabs of rough and elemental timber lie awaiting the expert touch of the team. Dave strokes an expanse of walnut lovingly. “A large part of our craft is being able to select wood, and we put a lot of care into ensuring a piece is at once characterful, robust and luxurious,” he says.

We ascend the staircase, and here I meet Ross Norgate in a highceilinged workspace with exposed beams.

It’s the first time I view the two as a pair, and as we talk it becomes evident why the results of their signature blend have become design classics. Dave’s appreciation of functional and aesthetically superior design was born when he won a scholarship to study in Copenhagen after school. “I share their ethos that design should be considered,” says Dave. “There should be no compromise; something that looks good should work just as well.” Ross is Devon born, and immediately comes across as an individual who possesses the rare ability to combine an unswerving practical streak with unlimited design prowess. “I had been in the joinery world since the age of 16, and after a few roles got to the point where I could do everything in the shops with my eyes closed, I was hungry for a very different level of work,” says the selfconfessed perfectionist. “Dave and I met on a cabinet-making course and it soon became apparent that we had shared ideas.”

Since joining forces in 2010, the pair have proven unstoppable.

The tiny fox that serves as their logo encapsulates the local, crafty and iconic nature of the items the produce, and a quick introduction to some of their key pieces makes it immediately evident why the little fox is galloping. Demand for Young & Norgate items is growing, fast, because what emerges from these workshops is, quite simply, breath-taking.

“We’ve just kitted out hedge fund offices in London and injected new life into one of the oldest wine merchants in the country (think leather-clad counters and full wall bottle installations),” says Dave. “Our work is very varied and has a strong residential component too, from bespoke walk-in wardrobes and libraries to freestanding one-of-a-kind furniture pieces that will essentially be the heirlooms of tomorrow.”

Even pieces this outfit calls ‘off the shelf ’ (among the ‘shelves’ is Liberty of London) are only ever one of a hundred. A qualityfocused approach that has no doubt earned them their recent barrage of awards. “The prestigious Bespoke Guildmark we were awarded for the Zoetic chest of drawers by the Worshipful

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Company of Furniture Makers was especially satisfying,” says Ross.

“It’s one of the hardest awards to win, and each one given out gets a number and a seal. We are only the 450th in the UK to achieve this.”

Typically for them, design superiority is balanced by a keen grip of the practicality of the process. “Some clients have a clear idea of what they want, while others need our guidance from square one. We are happy to visit the space and conceptualise with them, and present them with 3D visuals of what they can expect the finished product to look like,” says Dave. “No one gets rushed; we’ll take them through each step if they fancy it.”

“The environment in which we create is also of utmost importance,” adds Ross. “The space in which we make our furniture and installations needs to be as similar as possible to where they will end up living. Before we got started we made sure everything was double glazed, installed carefully selected lighting, painted accordingly, and we even keep the thermostat set just right so that the workspace lends itself to the interior of a house.”

Perhaps their most practical consideration of all is cost. Products

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featured in titles such as How to Spend it (March 2013) may seem unattainable to many of us “Our items are undeniably exclusive and high end,” admits Dave. “But part of being crafty is knowing how to work to a set budget. Even if you have limits, we can still surpass your expectations. “ I bid farewell to the team (including a stern-faced yet affectionate mixed breed called Ian) and follow Dave’s sleek black Land Rover over uncertain territory and back to higher ground. As he waves goodbye from behind the wheel I can’t help think of the similarities between the pair and this iconic vehicle choice –flawless functionality and unapologetic style spring to mind –and the way nature’s elements allow them to showcase the raw and elegant power of good design.

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Taylors Etc Palomba bath by Laufen

Swish splash If you’re looking for a renovation project this year make it your bathroom, recommends interior designer Lesley Taylor With a bathroom now being recognised as a room in the home that has the potential to add value to a property and with many of us desiring to create a space in which to relax and unwind at the end of a long, stressful day, it’s no wonder we’re opting to invest time and

money into renovating them.

Bathroom design has rapidly evolved over recent years and the boundaries of possibility have undoubtedly been challenged.

If you are lucky enough to have a large bathroom, then a

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Vogue (UK)’s Allure towel warmer add detail and personality to any bathroom

freestanding bath is one of the easiest ways to create a sense of grandeur and can work in both a modern and traditional scheme.

In a contemporary styled bathroom, select a smooth, sculptural design in a white finish to maintain a minimalist appearance, but if your bathroom design is going to adopt a high-end country house décor, then a traditional freestanding, roll-top bath, with beautifully chrome feet and brassware would certainly make an ideal centrepiece.

If your bathroom is restricted in terms of space, why not consider a wetroom or walk-through shower installation as an alternative to a bathtub? Many UK bathroom designs are now based around a hotel style of living with an open plan, continental edge and I’ve noticed in recent years that homeowners are becoming increasingly tempted to sacrifice the tub and focus their attention on a ‘wow-factor’ showering experience.

It may seem simpler to have a bathtub installed but the process of installing a wetroom doesn’t need to be a daunting one.

The wetroom market has progressed so rapidly in recent years that manufacturers have been encouraged to develop products and

installation techniques that will ensure wetroom installation causes minimal upheaval and is an easy, quick and efficient process to undertake. If you choose to install a wetroom in your home, you will also find that your bathroom gains a feeling of spaciousness, resulting in a tranquil environment that can be enjoyed.

When it comes to sanitaryware, this may sound a little unimaginative, but I would always recommend a non-invasive, plain white suite. My reasoning for this is that although you may feel a plain white suite is ‘playing it safe’, choosing this colour will ensure that the bathroom remains on trend for years to come. It’s important to also think of the shape and style of sanitaryware you choose in relation to the overall décor; if you are creating a contemporary space then geometrically styled sanitaryware is an ideal choice.

Plus, by keeping the sanitaryware plain, it’s then possible to bring excitement and luxury into the room via additional elements such as decorative tiles and brassware, adding a sense of personality and individuality to the space. An interesting towel warmer design is also worth considering as there are some wonderful designs available on the market that will make a bold statement in their own right.

Lesley Taylor is an interior designer with years of experience in both domestic and commercial property. As a member of the British Institute of Interior Design, she has established herself as one of the UK’s top design consultants and has worked on a broad range of projects throughout the UK. For more details visit www.lesleytaylor.co.uk 76

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This page: Wetrooms by Impey Showers.

Below & opposite: Taylor’s Etc. Venetian Irridescent Mosaics

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Perfection

& potential

Becky Sheaves finds an impressive family home, with land, near to Exeter. With planning permission previously granted, this property is ripe for development, and the gym, Aga and en-suite master mean that life is sweet in the interim

If you are seeking a spacious family home with annexe, land and potential to extend close to the city of Exeter, then you should definitely take a look at Oakfield House.

This impressive four-bedroomed property, with a one-bedroom annexe, is set in a wonderful position on the northern edge of Exeter.

Despite being only just over two miles from the city centre, it comes with a sizeable amount of land and fantastic countryside views.

The owners are a couple with three children who are relocating to the Midlands for work reasons.

The property is conveniently located for access to the favoured Exeter area of Pennsylvania, the university and Exeter city centre, as well as the business district of Sowton and the M5 motorway.

“The property has been extended to provide a family home with 78

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integral annexe,” explains estate agent Michael Shaw, who is marketing the house with Wilkinson Grant.

“However, what is also exciting is that the current owners had planning consent (now lapsed) to create an exceptional property by significantly re-configuring and extending to include a fifth bedroom with a balcony taking full advantage of the stunning views.

“You could add significant value here, should you want to do so.”

The planning permission almost doubled the size of the house, turning it into a five-bedroomed property with lots of en-suite bathrooms, dressing rooms and a significant balcony upstairs to take the very best advantage of the views.

It was allowed to lapse because the current owners realised they would be moving on for work reasons, as their job situation had

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Oakfield House, Exeter ÂŁ725,000 Property: Four-bedroomed detached 1950s family house, onebedroom annexe, and paddock on the edge of Exeter.

Location: On Stoke Hill, on the northern edge of Exeter, near Pinhoe and Stoke Canon.

Accommodation: Four bedrooms, three reception rooms, and a large kitchen.

Outside: Large gardens and paddock, amounting to 2.5 acres in total.

Agents: Wilkinson Grant, Exeter, 01392 427500, www.wilkinsongrant.co.uk

The generous master with en suite

The 1950s doors are made of oak

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changed.

The sale of Oakfield House represents a rare opportunity to buy a spectacular home with land, in close proximity to Exeter, and there is no forward chain.

The accommodation in the main part of the house comprises four bedrooms and the master bedroom has an en-suite bathroom. There are three reception rooms and a large kitchen including Belfast sink, Siemens ceramic hob and double oven, Aga cooker and granite work surfaces.

There is also a wonderful garden room, gym, cloakroom, and utility area.

The annexe comprises a ground-floor bedroom, en-suite shower room and kitchenette.

“The style of the house is also very charming,” says Michael. “The doors are original from the 1950s and are beautifully made of oak, with lots of high-quality workmanship on display.”

Oakfield House has gas-fired central heating and double glazing throughout. It is approached via wrought iron gates and has a gravelled parking and turning area bordered by mature shrubs and trees. Private gardens at the rear provide far-reaching countryside views and enjoy aspects to the south and west.

The gardens and adjoining paddock extend to about 2.5 acres, which is enough to consider using the land for all sorts of purposes, including possibly equestrian pursuits. All in all, this is an exciting property with a great deal of potential.

“

You could add significant value here, should you want to do so

Local Area Facts: Stoke Hill: Oakfield House is on the north eastern edge of Exeter, on Stoke Hill, a large hill rising to 500 feet about sea level, near Stoke Woods.

History: There is a large Iron Age hill fort on Stoke Hill, as well as a Roman signal station.

Walks:The Forestry Commission runs Stoke Woods, a large area of woodland containing some of the largest and oldest trees in Exeter. There are marked walks through the woods where you will see plenty of wildlife including deer.

Schools: The nearest schools for primary aged children are Stoke Hill Junior and Stoke Hill Infants, both “good” according to Ofsted. Newly-built St James School nearby offers education that is “good with outstanding features”, and has only 600 pupils. There are several good private schools in Exeter.

Connections: Oakfield House is a short distance from the centre of Exeter. It is also well-connected for the M5 and A30. Commuter trains for the city centre of Exeter stop at Pinhoe station and there is a mainline rail station at Exeter St Davids.

The spacious living area at Oakfield House

Shopping: Exeter has some of the best retail in the South West, with the newly opened John Lewis store just 2.2 miles from Oakfield House

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City

Exeter Outskirts A well-presented property set in superb parkland gardens Kitchen/breakfast room | Reception room | Shower room | Four double bedrooms, one en suite | Garage | Private allocated parking | Wine cellar | Resident's indoor heated pool, gym and tennis court EXE130011

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Guide £375,000

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OIRO £1,100,000

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Guide £685,000

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20/02/2014 17:44:01

Untitled-2 1

Countess Wear

Newton St Cyres

Two high specification four bedroom town houses. Both have entrance hall, cloakroom, dining room, kitchen, large sitting room, 3 bathrooms. G.F.C.H. Garden & garage.

Available now. EPC Band B. Tenant fees apply. Web Find: 60369

A beautifully presented attached Victorian cottage. Cloakroom, sitting room, kitchen/ dining area, utility, 3 bedrooms, bathroom. Garden & parking. G.F.C.H. Unfurnished/ part-furnished. Available now. EPC Band D. Tenant fees apply. Web Find: 32156

£1,450 pcm

£950 pcm

Exeter 01392 671598

Exeter 01392 671598

Chudleigh

Shillingford Abbot

A substantial three bedroom period house situated in a semi-rural position. Kitchen, drawing room with open fire, bathroom, three bedrooms. Parking, storage. O.F.C.H. Available now. Tenant fees apply. Web Find: 64283

A spacious four bedroom barn conversion in rural hamlet. Sitting room, dining/family room, kitchen, four bedrooms, family bathroom and shower room. G.F.C.H. Parking & garden. Available now. EPC Band F. Tenant fees apply. Web Find: 31930

£850 pcm

£1,295 pcm

Exeter 01392 671598

Exeter 01392 671598

21/02/2014 10:56:03

Edge of Exeter

Pennsylvania

This wonderful family home provided the best of both worlds with easy access into the city and a stunning rural outlook. Web Find: 57500

This wonderful period townhouse received keen interest from buyers, with a sale agreed before hitting the open market! Web Find: 59549

Guide £395,000

Exeter 01392 255202

Guide £360,000

1 Acre

Quayside

Dawlish Road

Untitled-2 2

Exeter 01392 255202

This rare and unique property provided our Exeter buyers a chance to acquire a stylish lodge house on a large plot. Web Find: 60184

Quayside properties provide the ideal lifestyle purchase. This apartment received multiple offers. Web Find: 58382

Guide £410,000

Guide £305,000

Exeter 01392 255202

Exeter 01392 255202

21/02/2014 10:59:28