West Magazine, August 6 2016

06.08.16

10

weather-proof weekend treats

Bags of style Super cool and made in Cornwall

Carol Vorderman

HAPPY single & smiling ‘Why moving to Somerset was the best thing I have ever done’

WIN!

Delicious

meals out

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The Art of Living

Hearth & Cook brings a new experience to home lovers and makers.

Expertly gathered together in our showroom in Exeter is a selection of the finest

products designed to transform homes and inspire wonderful culinary creations,

including an extensive range of beautifully designed outdoor ovens from renowned Danish stove manufacturer, Morsø. Visit our showroom now to see many of these

appliances in action or browse our website for more information.

• RANGE COOKERS FROM LA CORNUE AND ESSE • MORSØ STOVES & OUTDOOR LIVING RANGE • ASHGROVE BESPOKE KITCHENS Find us in Oaktree Place, 100 yards behind Carrs Ferrari & Maserati.

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Call 01392 797679 www.hearthandcook.com 14 Oaktree Place, Manaton Close, Matford, Exeter, Devon EX2 8WA

02/08/2016 11:33:24

‘A lot of my female buddies, we have a better time when we go out with the girls. We send the men off to play golf’

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ESCAPE FOR THE WEEKEND Where to go, what to do

Carol Vorderman on why life is good in Somerset, p16

16 30

CAROL’S LATEST CHALLENGE Ms Vorderman on men and motherhood

BOOST YOUR WELLBEING Great ways to feel your best

[contents[ Inside this week...

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THE WISHLIST Our pick of the best treats this week

9

JUST BETWEEN US...

Sh! We have the latest gossip!

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A CREATIVE CONNECTION The Cornish friends making cool handbags

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28

FASHION GOES WILD Animal prints for grown-ups

CAROL’S LATEST CHALLENGE Ms Vorderman on men and motherhood

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NAUTICAL BUT NICE How to add coastal chic to your home

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WEDDING OUTFITS TO ADORE Our new style guru gives the best advice

28

WILD THING Classy animal print ? Yes, really!

32

NATURALLY GOOD FOR YOU Bridie Nicol cooks scrumptious snacks

35

SMART WAYS WITH WINE April Marks picks her favourite tipples

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DOUBLE TROUBLE The Devon search for a secret twin

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ESCAPE FOR THE WEEKEND Where to go, what to do

46

POWERPOINT? OH, YIPPEE Phil Goodwin’s son makes a presentation

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SECRET PLACES The Westcountry treasures to visit now

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STYLING IT OUT

Our expert has all the answers 3

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SAILS AHOY

The ultimate in upcycled chic

[ welcome [

If you do one thing this week...

Why not make some festival plans? Tickets are now on sale for the National Trust’s South West Outdoor Festival (September 23-25). It is a chance to explore a wonderful range of fun outdoor activities in Heddon Valley, within Exmoor National Park.

The festival is being run in partnership with Cotswold Outdoor, the Trust’s official outdoor retailer.

Visitors can camp for the whole weekend in a riverside paddock (£60 adult camping) or just explore for a day visit, for free!.

Try everything from kayaking and tree climbing to stand up paddleboarding and wild swimming. Gentler activities include star gazing, wild food foraging, and nature walks. The festival will also play host to TV personality Monty Halls. For tickets and further details visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/swof

There’s plenty to celebrate across the Westcountry Win

ome things are worth celebrating. and we have plenty of examples in this week’s edition.

Jay and Sophie are two friends from Cornwall who had the inspired idea to make designer bags from upcycled sails and horse reins, an innovation that earned them a place in the final six at Liberty London’s ‘Best of British.’ Read more on page 12.

Another expert on a new lease of life is definitely the inimitable Carol Vorderman. Now in her mid50s, she reveals on page 16 that she is revelling in being single, working with NASA, and preparing

S

To celebrate the National Trust South West Outdoor Festival, we have camping kit worth £586 from Cotswold Outdoor to win, including two Robens Caucasus 600 sleeping bags, each worth £160, a Vango Banshee 200 tent, a first aid kit (£30), two sleeping mats (£22 each), cooking kit (£27), travel charger (£40) and travel coffee maker (£25). To enter, tell us the name of the valley where the festival will take place. Send your answers, together with your full contact details, to: National Trust Festival competition, westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk by August 5. Normal terms apply, West magazine will not share your details.

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Tweet

[

of the week

to fly solo around the world. Oh, and she looks fantastic doing it.

We’re also raising a glass to luxury hotel The Alverton. In June, this Truro gem added The Courtyard, which is made up of 15 new bedrooms and suites. Our favourite? The Chapel Suite, complete with a copper roll-top bath and a stained-glass window.

Now that’s our kind of weekend escape.

Need something to wear to a summer celebration of your own? Nothing says fierce feminity like animal print, (p28), or read our resident stylista Gracie’s new weekly column on page 26.

Here’s to the the good life!

Indefatigble Carol Vorderman is relishing life as a single woman

@NTSouthWest Thank you @WMNWest magazine for the feature about our South West Outdoors Festival, have you booked your tickets?

TO ADVERTISE: Contact Lynne Potter: 01752 293027 or 07834 568283, lynne.potter@dc-media.co.uk

[

[ [

Becky Sheaves, Editor

EDITORIAL: westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk Tel: 01392 442250 Twitter @wmnwest

MEET THE TEAM Becky Sheaves, Editor

Phil Goodwin

Kathryn Clarke-McLeod

Gillian Molesworth

Lynne Potter

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If you do one thing this week...

This summer you can taste your way around the world at Princesshay. Fancy Italian? Head to Carluccio’s and go al fresco or enjoy views of Exeter’s magnificent cathedral from the deliciously inventive Jamie’s Italian. Soak up the atmosphere in Yo! Sushi’s stylish and colourful surroundings or head to Wagamamas for Japanese eats overlooking the city’s historic almshouses.

With legendary burgers and all the sides at Byron, signature firesticks from Coal Grill and Bar, fiery Portuguese chicken in Nandos, French finery in Café Rouge or International favourites in Giraffe, Princesshay is the place to dine this summer.

Win

To win a £50 gift card to dine at one of Princesshay’s 14 stylish restaurants or cafes, simply tell us which city Princesshay is based in. Send your answer plus your name, address and contact details via email to westmag@ westernmorningnews.co.uk by August 17. Normal terms apply, West magazine will not share your details.

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02/08/2016 11:00:19

SUNNY Uptown Beauty yellow handbag £155 Folli Follie Dipped bamboo wooden table set £75 Marquis & Dawe

the

wishlist

Plaited belt £22.50 White Stuff

West’s top picks for spending your time and money this week

STREET STYLE STAR Lucy Wilson Lucy, 29, from Crediton, works as a multi-media marketing consultant. We love her distinctive and feminine style.

LY BY: JA Z RE IL

Lucy says “I like to get my style from a website called LIKEtoKNOW.it which allows you to shop from other people’s Instagram feeds.”

Skirt: Zara, £30 Top: Zara, £10 Shoes: Oasis, £40 Necklace: Lorna Ruby £25 Bag: Zara, £40

Send your stylish snaps of you or a friend looking fab to westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk

Alphabet luggage tag £11 Accessorize

SHINE Hammered stack rings £29 Jigsaw

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Wishlist

fave!

Aztec-patterned cushion £19.99 HomeSense

GOLDEN Otto boot £115 Dune

COOK! Marble-stripe chopping board £6.99 HomeSense

STORE WE ADORE: k, Exeter See Hyde & This beautiful store is bursting with beautiful and unusual contemporary homeware and gifts. It’s not hard to see why it won the prestigious South West Independent Retailer of the Year at The Great Gift’s Retailer Awards 2016.

Prepare to lose a happy hour browsing

BY: JAZ REILLY

Store we adore...

through beautiful hot air balloon mobiles, unicorn tape dispensers, quirky tea towels and too-good-to-tear wrapping paper.

Warning, you may go in for a gift but you’ll definitely leave with a little something for yourself!

15 Paris Street, Exeter, 01392 758435

Carrara teapot £30 Oliver Bonas

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talking points Gillian Molesworth

Story of my life...

Lack of letters didn’t spoil the fun of camp ummer is the season that Americans go to sleepaway camp: band camp, tennis camp, name your pastime and there’s a camp for it.

My father recently sent me some old papers, and among them was a letter I wrote home from tennis camp in Vermont called Windridge, aged 12. I remember my mother sent me off with her ridiculously oversized Prince tennis racquet.

And because I officially have no shame, here it is for your enjoyment, spelling errors and all:

S

twice the width. It itches badly and it made my gland swell up.

The gland hurts. Sara says that they’re attracted to the smell of your glands. She got one too and it went away after a while, so I’m hoping mine will too.

How’re the animals? Has the Duque written you? I feel sorry June 15, 1985 for him there because he has to Dear Mom and Dad, write everybody.

Camp is great. I borrowed sheets Mom, the grip on the Tennis and an extra blanket from Sara racquet is to large and I’m getting and Katie (my cabin leaders) and blisters on the flesh just below I’m all warm. where my palm meets my fingers.

We can have showers anytime It’s kind of embarrassing because we want and there is a candy shop during practice we have to hit one where we can get fast and run around two things a day. the court, and there (But please send are 4 people playing.

Ashley has got me candy, Skor (By the way, I’m in five letters and 2 bars and peanut the high group). packages. Even butter Twix.) I So it sounds like need film for the this – (I’m 4th): though I’m not Minolta. I haven’t PING!...PING!... overwhelmingly found any of the PING!...PONG! behomesick doesn’t right kind yet. cause my strings Today was are loose. I even mean I don’t like sunny and nice. asked the tennis pro to get letters Ask Gratia for my and he says they’re schedule because loose.

I don’t feel like He said with the writing it down again. bigger head you shouldn’t be able The councelers are GREAT and to touch two strings together, and so are the kids in our cabin, even I could. They’ve got a nice assortthough I’m the oldest. Ashley is ment of racquets here, but I need in it. Speaking of her, Ashley has your assent before I can buy one. got five letters and two packages.

PLEASE SEND MY PRINCE JR! Even though I’m not overwhelmI bought a sweatshirt that says ingly homesick doesn’t mean I Windridge on it, so you’ll be able don’t like to get letters. to see that.

I have a black fly bite just Love you, miss you, and behind my ear. It’s about as PLEASE PLEASE WRITE BACK! long as three mosquito bites and Love, Gilly Gillian Molesworth is a journalist and mum-of-two who grew up in the USA and moved to north Cornwall when she met her husband.

COOL

blues Attending Taste of the West’s 25th Anniversary Food Fair in the grounds of Exeter Cathedral, the Duchess of Cornwall did her best to keep cool on what was the hottest day of the year so far in this beautiful chiffon number.

Sheer sleeves are ideal for those of us who want to be slightly more covered up while still keeping cool. She paired the dress with a simple brown clutch, elegant pearls and black frames. Here’s our pick of the best style steals of Camilla’s cool blue look available now on the high street.

Marlena dress £99 Studio 8

steal her

style

OR MAKE IT YOUR OWN

OPTION A Fresh Zandra Rhodes gathered dress £37.50 People Tree

OPTION B Floaty Neeru Kumar Dress £189 East

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06.08.16

Just

TOM: ‘IT’S LOVE’ TOM HIDDLESTON is insisting his much-photographed relationship with TAYLOR SWIFT is “not a publicity stunt”.

The British actor has enjoyed a whirlwind romance with the US pop star, peppered with public displays of affection. The two have taken trips together to Rome and Australia and Tom also attended a party at Taylor’s house in Rhode Island, USA, where he was pictured wearing an “I heart T.S.” t-shirt.

Tom, 35, who recently starred in The Night Manager, told the Hollywood Reporter: “Well, um. How best to put this? The truth is that Taylor Swift and I are together, and we’re very happy.” He added: “That’s the truth. It’s not a publicity stunt.” We’re not sure - what do you think?

[ [ ‘It’s nice to work with your friends, isn’t it Miranda?’

TOGETHER AGAIN

between us Gossip, news, trend setters and more – you heard all the latest juicy stuff here first!

!

ARLENE’S AFTER LEN’S JOB! ARLENE PHILLIPS says she would consider a return to Strictly Come Dancing to replace outgoing judge LEN GOODMAN. The choreographer, who was on the original judging panel between 2004 and 2009, said she was not surprised Goodman was leaving after he appeared “tired” and “irritated” on the BBC show.

“I think Len for a while has been hopping there and back to America...

I think he’s had enough.

“Actually on the last c o u p l e of series s o m e -

times, I know everyone calls him grumpy, but oh my goodness! He really has let the fact that he is tired or irritated show.”

Asked who should replace Goodman, Arlene, 73, replied: “Me, of course. Who else?” The BBC says it is too early to say who will get the role, but Arlene would get a 10 from us.

We are very excited to hear of a new BBC1 costume drama currently being filmed - an adaptation of Wilkie Collins’ classic detective story about missing diamonds, The Moonstone. Even better, our favourite actress SARAH HADLAND (who starred in Miranda) is in it, playing the pious Miss Clack.

It’s perhaps not surprising she has been picked for the part - the show is a joint venture between the BBC and production company King Bert, which is run by Miranda Hart and David Walliams. Sounds like a gem to us.

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Wow: Andreas Byrne took this wonderful picture of Porlock Weir in Somerset

in pictures Style icon: Jessie Power from Hayle is 101 years old and makes her own clothes

Spectacular: The Poldhu 10k run had fabulous scenery along the coast to Gunwalloe Cove Parade: Lafrowda Festival in St Just, west Cornwall, was a great success

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talking points A history

of the

WEST in

100

objects QUIZ Of the Week:

6: Eddystone lighthouse salt

How Westcountry is:

Your career?

1. How do you make a living?

A) You work as an accountant.

Someone has to.

B) You don’t really have a job. You made such a lot of money selling your house in London and moving down here. But you make organic goat’s cheese.

C) In the summer, teaching surfing. In the winter, working in the family business.

2. What is your most cherished ambition?

A. To get good enough broadband to work from home.

B) It would be nice to win a Great Taste Award for your artisan produce.

C) To be paid to surf all day.

3. Describe your commute to work: A. Monday morning dash to the station, three nights up in London,

B) C)

Made in Plymouth, 1698

then home for a long weekend.

A two-minute stroll across the garden to your shepherd’s hut.

As long as the car starts (it’s getting on a bit) a 20-minute cruise along the coast. Great views and you can check out the surf as you go.

4. D escribe your work outfit A. Something navy from M&S. B) A sort of medieval-style smock and shorts. And beard (men only).

C) A wetsuit in summer, branded polo shirt the rest of the year.

5. Who is your career inspiration?

A. Richard Branson - legend.

B) Boris Johnson - legend.

C) Kelly Slater - surfer.

6. In five years’ time, you will be: A. A millionaire.

B) Doing pretty much the same.

C) In Australia.

results:

Mostly As) You’re not really very Westcountry at all, sorry. Nice suit, though.

Mostly Bs) You are getting more Westcountry by the day. Great cheese, too.

Mostly Cs) You are very, very Westcountry.

Why leave and go to Australia? Is it something we said - or just the weather?

Julien Parsons is the Senior Collections Officer, The Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter.

He says: At 50cm tall and weighing almost 500g, this silver tower for holding salt would grace any dining table. It was made in 1698 by Plymouth goldsmith Peter Rowe and depicts the ill-fated, first Eddystone lighthouse designed by Henry Winstanley.

Winstanley loved gadgets. He created popular attractions such as ‘Winstanley’s Water-works’ and invested the profits in shipping. So shipwrecks were a source of distress to him. It’s even been suggested that he lost two of his own vessels on the notorious Eddystone Rocks off Plymouth Sound – a good story but there’s no evidence to support it.

Backed by the Admiralty, Winstanley designed an offshore lighthouse to warn ships off the rocks and construction began in July 1696. The next year he was kidnapped by a French privateer and the partly built lighthouse destroyed. Once he was released, work resumed and in November 1698 the candles in the lantern-

room were lit. At a special dinner in Plymouth, grateful merchants presented Winstanley with Rowe’s miniature masterpiece.

There was no happy ending to this tale, however. After the punishing winter of 1698-99 the lighthouse had to be clad in stone and re-roofed.

Repairs were almost constant and the architect was back at Eddystone when the Great Storm of 1703 struck.

It took everything: Winstanley, his workers and the lighthouse.

#6

On display in the ‘Plymouth: Port and Place’ gallery, Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery until September 3.

Competition winners: Rocktails gift sets (worth £9.95 each) Well done to: Rosemarie Stanbury, Anne Wellum, Jane Clayton, Adam Lewis, David Rogers, Jill Treby, Kerston Langdon, Deirdre Dick, David Tubby, Melanie McLoughlin and Annabel Pring

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People

[

CREATED IN CORNWALL

Bagfuls of inspiration

[

Does it get more quintessentially Westcountry than designer handbags upcycled from boat sails and horse reins? Sophie Mason and Jay McInnes share the story of their blossoming business

By Gracie Stewart

riends Sophie Mason and Jay McInnes make gorgeous bags, using materials from two very Westcountry passions - horseriding and sailing. The sturdy but stylish bags are made from old sails, with handles created from the beautiful leather straps from re-used bridles.

Their business, started over coffee at a mother and baby group, is now flourishing from its north Cornwall base near Wadebridge.

“We both love Cornwall, its vibe and the lifestyle.” explains Jay. Sophie chimes in: “Creating and selling from Cornwall is definitely a plus as far as marketing is concerned. Cornwall and its image are somehow aspirational.” They have

F

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Friends Jay (left) and Sophie (right)

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Sturdy sails translate into wonderfully strong bags for shopping

called their business Rocke & Nutter, and it is based in the village of St Merryn. The duo’s range of innovative beach and town bags, which launched in July last year, is all crafted from re-used horse reins, sails and (sometimes) re-used hi-vis jackets, too.

“We were keen to produce a range that we could call our own,” Jay explains. “It was important to us to produce something that was unisex, practical and eco-friendly, while still being stylish and edgy.”

The pair first met at a toddler group just outside of Padstow – like many women, they formed a lasting bond over babies and cups of tea.

Both have a background in fashion; Sophie has a fashion degree, while Jay went to the London College of Fashion where she studied hairdressing.

“To design bags just felt like it was our thing,” says Sophie. “We live on the coast, we love the beach and we love shopping. So our first goal was to develop a brilliant beach bag that would perfectly transition from the sand to the high street.”

But the pair needed their work to fit around their young families. “Working for ourselves just seemed obvious and the only way to go. Having made that decision we seemed to tumble into it!” says Jay. “All of a sudden we found ourselves needing

‘We wanted a brilliant beach bag that would transition from sand to high street’

a website,” remembers Sophie. “Those who have run their own business before us were probably laughing as we said we were doing it to fit around our families,” she adds, admitting that it has been far harder work that she could have imagined.

“However, we do manage that to some extent. We still do most of the school runs and kids’ activities, though we often end up working into the night or getting up at some ungodly hour! Trips away to have stalls at festivals or buying have to be fitted into the shortest amount of time possible.”

But family still comes first: “When we want to do something with or for our families and work is calling we sometimes have to remind each other, this is why we are self-employed. We love Rocke & Nutter and are dedicated to it - but our families are the priority,” Jay tells me.

According to the duo, we have become “an incredibly disposable society”, constantly throwing things away not only when they are no longer fit for purpose but also when we’re bored of them.

It’s for that reason they are so passionate about up-cycling.

“It is so rewarding to see old sails, broken horse reins and hi-vis jackets taking on a new stylish lease of life. Being up-cycled is also what makes each bag unique. They have a story and bear the marks, scars and tell-tale signs of their

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People

past life,” says Jay. But sourcing these materials isn’t always easy.

“We scour harbours, sailing clubs, boat jumbles and horse tack sales. We go to sail makers and building yards. We also sometimes use eBay. And our labels are made from offcuts of leather from a brilliant leather worker based in Krowji Studios in Redruth,” Jay adds.

Prices for their bags start at £58, which they sell online, alongside a hand-picked range of eclectic jewellery, children’s items and homewares. But it is the sails and bridles that really sum up what Rocke & Nutter is really all about: “Between them these two materials encapsulate the outdoor lifestyle of the South West. There’s

a surf-and-turf thing going on and each one of them - the sailing and the horse-riding - has a romance and a story attached.

“In keeping with the sailing theme we actually buy our threads, linings and zips from a proper sail-making supply company. This not only keeps us true to the story but also gives the bags the strength and durability that you need from a bag for life,” Jay explains.

Going to the most recent Liberty London Open Call ‘Best of British’ was a highlight for Sophie and Jay. “From thousands of applicants we were selected to pitch our product to Liberty’s buyers,” recalls Jay. “We met Ruby Chadwick, the head accessories

buyer. To our amazement, she asked us back to the second round where we found out that we are one of her final six brands.

“She loved our product, our style, branding and the fact that our bags are up-cycled and that each one is unique.”

Looking further ahead, Sophie and Jay are full of exciting plans for their fledgling business. “It’s a bit of a cliché but so many friends and fellow entrepreneurs have encouraged us to plough on through the tough times,” says Jay. “My advice to anyone else thinking of taking the plunge would be to believe in your product, and enjoy the whole process.” www.rockeandnutter.com

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Interview

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DOn’t look back Carol Vorderman tells Kate Whiting why her move to the Westcountry means she is happier than ever arol Vorderman is sitting on the floor, her grey suede platforms and linen flare-clad legs crossed, demonstrating why she never unwinds with a little meditation.

“I was in this place in Austria about four years ago trying yoga with a German instructor. I got the giggles - my shoulders were shaking and I was thinking, ‘Please don’t open your eyes, please don’t look at me’. You know, this very serious health spa... it was terrible! So no, I don’t meditate,” she says, giggling.

And, it seems, she doesn’t need to. She’s happily single and very content with her life in the Westcountry, having made the move from London nearly 10 years ago. She is selling her luxury mansion in Somerset for £2.6 million but she won’t be leaving the South West, she explains. Now that her children have grown up, she is moving to Bristol to be nearer to her mother.

“Bristol is simply a great place to live. It is friendly, just the right size, and very beautiful. The city has definitely become even more attractive and is very green and quite bohemian, which I love.” Carol is a ball of

C

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Interview

Carol with her daughter Katie in 2012

A lot of my female buddies, we have a better time when we go out with the girls. We send the men off to play golf

Carol is planning to fly solo around the world this summer

energy, her newly blonde locks bouncing as she gets engrossed in each subject she feels passionate about. First up it’s victoria.co.uk, a new website for women over 50 she’s helping to launch. It is aimed at reclaiming the phrase “women of a certain age”, to mean being sure about who you are and what you want in life.

And the former Countdown co-host and mumof-two, who turned 55 in December, describes herself as “happily single” now, after an on-off relationship with pilot Graham Duff. “I love being single. There was a survey not long ago, of women my age, that found fewer than a quarter want to get married again. About three-quarters of men our age want to get married again because they want someone to look after them, don’t they? Well, we’re going, ‘Ohhhhh, done that! I’ve brought up the kids...’ not in a selfish way.

“A lot of my female buddies, we have a better time when we go out with the girls. We send the men off to play golf.

“If people want to [get married], brilliant, if people want to live together, that’s brilliant. One of the things my friends say about me is I’m so

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Interview I went to Cambridge at 17, a northern comprehensive girl - unheard of. That was like you’re fighting a system live and let live, I don’t judge. If that suits you, that’s fantastic. There’s no, ‘You should, you shouldn’t’.”

Ever since her mid-40s, when she moved to Somerset, she has been feeling more confident, she tells me: “You worry less about things, your goal is you live more for now rather than worrying about this, that and the other. And interestingly, you see girls in their 20s whose skin’s great, but who worry more than women in their 50s. It’s what happens in your head.”

Her children, Katie and Cameron, with second husband Patrick King, have left home. She’s just put the family home on the market and she’s about to fly solo around the world. Hang on, what? Yes, around the world.

It seems that Carol’s childhood dream was to be a pilot but the RAF didn’t take women and her family couldn’t afford flying lessons. Today, after years of training and gruelling exams, she’s hoping to become the ninth woman in history to circumnavigate the globe, stopping in about 30 countries and all while being filmed for a threepart Channel 5 documentary to be aired this autumn.

“I have to take off in the summer because I have to get through a lot of very cold places, including Greenland,” she says. “Two months it will take, but I have to land before the winter comes. I’m hoping that by the time I get to China, I’ll be feeling a little more confident than I am today!”

It’s an extraordinary feat, but then Vorderman loves a challenge and has fought hard all her life.

Her parents split just weeks after she was born and she was brought up by her mum in north Wales.

“I went to Cambridge when I was 17, a northern comprehensive girl - unheard of ! That was like you’re fighting a system. Then worked underground with 2,000 men, no women, in civil engineering. Again, you’re kicking back.

“I always wanted to fly and I have to have a target, I have the lowest boredom threshold. I get told off by instructors because I’m always pressing buttons. ‘Carol, just leave it, everything’s perfect’. So I need to have a project.”

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22

interiors

32

recipe

38

culture

42

explore 21

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Holkham armchair £1,199, Nelson sofa from £699, Padstow footstool £299, striped throw £49 and cushions from £20, all John Lewis

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Interiors

Beside the sea Coastal style is always in fashion, especially here in the maritime South West. Gracie Stewart explores the best ways to get your home looking shipshape

s an island nation, it’s hardly surprising we’re drawn to the sea, especially here in the nautical South West. Small wonder, then, that the trend for coastal decor returns with the regularity of the tide every summer. Its clean, crisp look is incredibly appealing and lifts spirits by bringing to mind memories of happy days filled with sun, sea and sand.

Luckily for us, taking the plunge and conjuring up this easy-on-the-eye look isn’t difficult, and it’s a perfect way to revamp rooms suffering a decor winter hangover.

“Opt for a pared-back style with a muted colour palette, which reflects all the shades of the sea, from stormy steel to high-noon azure.

The addition of bleached woods and pale textiles will create a living area that’s as calm and cool as an ocean breeze,” advises Andrew Tanner, head of home design at Sainsbury’s.

“Bring in detail with sea-green bubbled glasswear, model sailing boats, beachy artwork, and interesting textures provided by wicker storage and potter in drift-wood hues,” he adds.

Stripped floorboards, white-painted tongueand-groove panelling for walls and weathered furniture are essential ingredients for a shoreside retreat. However, you’ll need to navigate carefully through the vast array of nautical accessories as too many could capsize the look.

A practical coastal style is not about overloading your home with every little beach related motif that you can get your hands on. “Relaxed textures, simple stripes and plainly crafted

A

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Interiors Swallows print duvet set £16 George at Home

[[

pieces reflect the comfort and charcoal, off-whites or a very ‘Thoughtful informality of a home by the light yellow that inspires images sea,” says Caroline Driver, deof a sun-kissed beach at dawn. details, such as signer at John Lewis.

Refreshing light blues, cool rope, rustic linens, Coastal interiors should blur aqua, light teal and turquoise the line between indoors and out are perfect additions as the classic sailor or remove it altogether. Plentiful accent shades that enliven the stripes, emulate windows, glass doors and skyspace. “This season sees the conthe beauty of an lights allow sunshine to flood in, ventional coastal colour palette so if your home is skimping on take a theatrical turn, with the antique cabin’ these elements it could be time introduction of inky blues, hints to consider renovating. If that’s of soft pastel blue and smoky not an option, at the very least grey hues and lilac. Thoughtfake it with lamps and sconces. ful details, such as rope, rustic Window treatments should be spare and simple linens, classic sailor stripes, emulate the beauty enough not to muffle the glow and, if you’re of an antique cabin,” says Julie Varma, senior lucky enough to have a home near the water, the designer at George Home. last thing you want is to obscure that view.

In coastal interiors, fabrics are simple, unasWhile coastal interiors aren’t known for shine and shimmer, a few carefully chosen accents can help to diffuse light even further. Consider a mirror mounted opposite a window or a glasstopped table in a sunny breakfast room. Just be sure not to bring in so many high-gloss notes that you lose the cosy ambience. You can also add a touch of luxury with metallic silver to evoke the enigmatic glimmer of the ocean.

In case white doesn’t do it for you, use beachinspired shades such as sandy beige, light cream,

Glass bottles from £5, bird cushion £12, tasselled throw £12, vases from £12, all Sainsbury’s

suming and put-your-feet-up comfy. Think linen slipcovers, cotton rugs, and muslin curtain panels or floaty sheers that billow in the breeze.

You can’t go wrong with pure white but washedout pastels or tailored stripes fit with the look as well. The market is currently loaded with shell and nautical print fabrics, many of them tasteful and chic so go ahead and give in to temptation.

Nautical prints and patterns aren’t the only way to create the coastal look in your bedroom, as seaside stripes and the right colour palette can be enough to bring the cool and calming influence of this trend home.

Look for light-coloured bed linen with a simple stripe pattern. If you want more of a coastal feel you can add throws, cushions and decorative pieces with a stronger coastal influence. All in all, you’ll have fun with your decor this summer.

STYLE TIP: Creating a coastal style requires plenty of natural daylight, so in darker rooms use mirrors and silvery metals to bounce the light around

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GET THE

LOOK

Add maritime touches for some fun and nautical style Eichholtz light feature £125 Sweetpea & Willow

Clock £14 Sainsbury’s

Maritime lampshades £48-£196 from Cream Cornwall

Vegas metal LED anchor light £39 Cult Furniture

Ship’s crew Russian dolls set £180, The Glasgow School of Art Shop

Nautical stripe fourdrawer unit £35, Wilkinson 25

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27/07/2016 12:49:41

Recommended: Kiehl’s powerful wrinkle reducing eye cream £32 Debenhams

Ask Gracie...

“I am looking for an eye cream that targets wrinkles and I have a budget of less than £40, what would you recommend?” KH, Modbury

Q

Want to look your best this week? Our styling expert Gracie Stewart of Exeter can help you look your best, in every possible way. All you have to do is ask...

When it comes to skincare I always say get the best you can afford. That doesn’t mean it has to be crazy-expensive but it’s

worth investing in. At £32 the Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Eye Cream from Kiehl’s combats a dull under-eye area with a powerhouse duo of copper and calcium that replenishes moisture, firms sagging skin and deflates puffiness. I find it helps me look brighter and more youthful whether I feel that way or not!

Wrap-front culottes £30 JD Williams

Elvi charcoal pencil faux leather skirt £65 House of Fraser

Q

Burgundy leather jacket £95 Next

“I’m 54 and like to look stylish. But am I too old to wear leather?” ID, Launceston

For older women, the key to looking good in leather is to stay away from anything too biker-ish (think motorcycle jackets and studded leather) too short or too tight. I would also advise swerving leather leggings and skinny cigarette pants unless you wear them with a tunic top. There are some new, easier-to-wear shapes such as a highwaisted trouser, a tapered trouser or a loose track pant. When it comes to leather skirts, whether pencil-shaped, A-line, or pleated, the skirt should hit around the knee or slightly below. If black leather feels too rock ’n roll for your comfort, try a softer neutral such as olive, blue, wine or taupe. You’ll look great.

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Stripes Stripe jumpsuit £50 Simply Be

fave!

Gracie’s shopping list Foreo LUNA anti-ageing skincare device, £125, Boots This gadget provides a professional standard of skincare in just two minutes.

It targets skin cells gently yet efficiently, helping to unclog pores and lift away dirt and oil.

Lower-frequency pulsations reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.

Paisley Softly draping printed jumpsuit £29 La Redoute

Floral Sapphire for Wallis black printed jumpsuit £60 Wallis

Menorquina-style rose gold leather sandals, £39.50, Oliver Bonas With buttery rose gold leather straps, these are a holiday essential.

“I’ve got a couple of weddings coming up in September but, as someone who tends to be more casual, I find it hard to get inspired for fancier dress occasions. Do you have any suggestions?” DS, Dulverton

Q

Ah, the joys of the wedding season. Trying to keep a sense of yourself while adhering to what seems like a million rules and regulations can be difficult. For formal situations I really like culottes, a jumpsuit, or long, high-waisted flared trousers. They feel more relaxed than a dress but look amazing with the right accessories – plus, you’re far less likely to bump into another guest wearing the same thing.

I often find that the bestdressed women at weddings tend to manipulate pieces from their existing wardrobes rather than wearing dedicated

wedding ensembles which can sometimes feel stiff and a little outdated. Wearing white to a wedding remains very tricky and possibly a no-go area but black on the other hand is entirely doable. Teaming it with a print, stripe or lighter plain colour for a monochrome look is ideal for those of us who don;t naturally steer towards colourful outfits. Have fun!

The Aevi Summer Wellness Box, £120, www.aevibox.com Fancy a quarterly wellness delivery that arrives at the start of each season to prepare you for the coming months? The 2016 Summer Wellness Box features six beauty and wellbeing products sourced for their purity and power from all around the world. Mmm!

Got a style or beauty question? Email Gracie Stewart at westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk with the subject Ask Gracie

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Animal print dress £48.99 JD Williams Lace trim shirt £30 Very

Cross-body bag £15.99 New Look Pleated leopard print skirt £29.99 New Look

Zebra print swimsuit £18 Bonmarché

Leopard print heels £70 M&Co

Wild Child ashion is certainly having a safari inspired moment this season, with leopard, zebra and snakeskin prints all over the place. Although this vibrant look can be a little daunting to wear, the key is to keep it simple by teaming it up with block colours and minimal accessories. If you choose a print blouse, pair it with a black skirt or trousers. Animal print handbags are a great way to get in on the trend without going overboard. And as for shoes - just ask Theresa May!

F

Biba zebra dress, £75 House Of Fraser

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Fashion

fave!

Culottes: wear these with a plain tee and highheeled sandals Animal print culottes £32 Very

Ruffle sleeve top £38 Debenhams

Sole Diva shoe boots £30 Simply Be

Snakeskin bag £40 Debenhams

29

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Wellbeing

the boost

Au natural

Life just got better. Our wellness guru Charlotte Dear has handpicked the latest health secrets and expert advice to help you be your best self, everyday

FIND YOUR TRIBE We all know that gardening is good for our wellbeing, but which garden tribe do you belong to? According to the gardening social networking app Garden Tags, there are six different tribes for every type of gardener, from novice to professional. Are you a member of the ‘Plants Shoots Leaves’ tribe – preferring to keep a low-maintenance garden? Or perhaps you’re a Premier Class Planter – dropping those Latin terms into every possible conversation.

Download the app to find out.

If you feel you could benefit from or are simply intrigued by herbal medicine, look no further than The Elderflower Practice. With an impressive portfolio, Helen Kearney shares a medicinal herb farm with her husband Stuart, offering both learning opportunities and consultations.

Whether you would like to receive medical, nutritional or lifestyle advice, or sample edible flowers, discover the healing power of plants at Elder Farm. www.elderfarm.co.uk

Scrub up!

Last month, health-conscious Plymouth residents were given a real treat as a brand new Holland and Barrett ‘More’ store opened in Drake Circus Shopping Centre. Showcasing exciting new concepts including the Olive Bar, Bees Knees Honey stand, Pick n Mix station, Beauty Kitchen and even Make Your Own Body Scrub station, this is your one-stop shop for daily essentials, special treats and gifts for friends.

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Come on, dance!

Fancy yourself as a mover and a shaker?

Head to Plymouth Guildhall on August 13 for a tea dance with a twist. Accompanied by live music performed by the Metropolis Swing Quartet, try your hand at the waltz, cha cha cha, jive, Charleston and Lindy Hop before tucking into some tea and cake in the Vintage Tea Room. Open to over-50s with no experience or partner required, it’s time to don those dancing shoes for an afternoon of fun and frolic. www. plymouthdance.org.uk

16% of fitness apps sold on Apple’s App Store are based on tracking cardio activities!

What’s coming up? Tweet us your wellbeing diary dates

Bonjour!

The Cornwall Hotel Spa & Estate has some tasty news. The brand-new Elephant Bar and Brasserie offers spa-goers French cuisine with a discernibly Cornish twist.

Making the most of the local larder of land and sea, the brasserie, which is situated in the main Victorian White House, boasts unique design, an inviting terrace, an extensive menu and next-to-no food miles. www.thecornwall.com ,

@WMNWest or email westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk 31

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PHOTOGRAPHY: MATT AUSTIN

Wellbeing

Naturally Bridie’s

Tuna Popping Patties You will need: 1½ cups millet grain 224g tuna (drained weight) 1 onion 1 garlic bulb 165g corn (drained weight) 3 kale leaves ½ stem broccoli 5g fennel bulb 2 tsp wholemeal flour 2 tbsp coconut oil Handful of rocket leaves ½Lime For the dressing 1½ tbsp mayonnaise (vegan, if possible) 2 tsp Dijon mustard 1½ tbsp apple cider vinegar ½ lime (juice only) 1 tsp maple syrup 1 tsp poppy seeds ¼ tsp tabasco sauce

@naturally_bridie

Bridie Nicol says: The millet in these patties is a good source of magnesium, essential for healthy nerve and muscle function, while the tuna is an excellent lean protein.

Method: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Place the millet grain into a sauce pan and add boiling water. Cook for 20 minutes, then strain and rinse under cold water. Leave to one side to allow to cool down.

Drain the tuna and place into a medium-size bowl, along with diced onion, diced garlic and corn.

Cut the kale up into small pieces and finely shave the broccoli head with a knife. Place these into the bowl and stir.

Grate the fennel bulb or place into a food processor and cut up before adding to the mixture.

Pour in the millet grain to the batch and stir.

Add in the flour, but do this slowly as you keep stirring to evenly spread it through the mixture.

Turn on the gas hob at medium heat and place a large, deep pan on with a dollop of coconut oil in it.

8.

This is the fun part, get your hands on in the bowl and grab a handful of the mixture and roll into a ball.

9. Place the tuna ball into the pan and gently flatten with a fish slice into a patty. Repeat this until a few patties are in the pan.

10. Once crispy on the heated side, scoop and turn over to cook on the other side. Repeat this until all of the batch is finished.

11. Place 1 or 2 onto a plate, add a handful of rocket leaves and cut up your lime to add a couple of wedges. This is now ready to be served up with the dressing.

12. To make the dressing, place all the ingredients into a blender, mix and then place into a small bowl or cup with a teaspoon.

Bridie Nicol runs nutrition advice business Naturally Bridie in east Devon www.naturallybridie.co.uk 32

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02/08/2016 13:24:45

Cook

Strawberry and Macadamia Blondies Recipe: Carol Bowen Ball, author of Esse’s The Four Seasons Cookbook

Ingredients

Method:

125g unsalted butter 200g white chocolate 100g light muscovado sugar 2 eggs 130g plain flour Pinch of salt 120g Viva strawberries, chopped 100g macadamia nuts, roughly chopped

1.

Preheat the oven if necessary to 180ºC/Fan 160ºC/Esse Dial Guide MODERATE. (Aim for the dial reading to be at the top end of MODERATE or very low end of HOT).

4.

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar until they are thick and golden. Add the flour, salt, and your chocolate/butter mix and fold in with a spatula until smooth.

2.

Line a 22cm2 baking tin with greaseproof paper.

5.

3.

Place the butter in a pan, heat to melt then cook on a low heat for 5 minutes or until the white solids start to turn golden. Pour into a cold bowl, add half of the chocolate and stir until melted.

Add the strawberries, nuts and remaining chocolate and stir briefly to combine.

Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 30 minutes. The blondies are cooked when they have a light golden crust but are still a little squidgy inside. Allow to cool in the tin then cut into 16 pieces to serve.

Makes: 16

The Blondies can be made ahead and will keep for 1-2 days if stored in an airtight tin – if they last that long without being eaten!

The Rangemoors Hearth & Cook showroom in Marsh Barton, Exeter supplies the full range of Esse cookers: www.hearthandcook.com 34

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Drink

Happy h ur with drinks expert April Marks

April says: This summer, 95,000 of us will pass through Exeter International Airport en route to our holiday destination, eagerly anticipating sun, sea and the local delights.

Moments after reclaiming your hand luggage, shoes and small change the holiday sensation furiously kicks in. Next stop? The bar of course! All three are run by The Mount Charles Group who are based in Northern Ireland. They have built their reputation on sourcing the best local produce and this practice has been successfully transferred to Exeter Airport where 67% of produce is sourced from suppliers throughout the Westcountry.

While waiting for your flight, relax with Tarquin’s Cornish gin or Wicked Wolf gin made in Devon. If vodka is your thing then grab yourself

‘While you’re in the

a Black Cow from Dorset, alternatively if your flight is just too early for spirits then plump for a glass of Kenton Estate wine from Devon.

The Spanish Balearics are a top destination from Exeter airport. If you’re visiting Menorca this summer consider tearing yourself away from the beautiful beaches to visit the Binifadet Winery in Sant Lluis. This compact winery produces nine wines with something for everyone. I urge you to try their Chardonnay, full and fleshy yet clean and elegant in style. The late morning tour has an English-speaking tour guide then you could stay for lunch on the terrace for an exquisitely prepared local menu (you may want to book ahead).

April Marks is co-founder of Regency Wines Ltd Exeter @regencywinesuk

airport, have a look at

what the bar offers’

Gin fling Exeter’s first gin festival is coming to the Exeter Corn Exchange on Saturday 13 and Sunday August 14.

Tickets are available from www.ginfestivalsuk.co.uk

Cocktail creation: FLOSSY’S FANCY I’ve borrowed this recipe from a good friend, Flossy, who knows how to make a great cocktail Ice cubes 25ml aromatic gin such as Wicked Wolf or Bathtub 25ml Crème de Poire Ginger ale to top up Fresh mint Fill a high ball glass with ice, pour over the gin and liqueur, top up with ginger ale and garnish with a sprig of mint, that you should smack to release its oils.

WINE OF THE WEEK De Bortoli Vat 8 Shiraz, South Eastern Australia Barbecue season has well and truly arrived, so try this all round meat friendly Shiraz from the multi-award winning De Bortoli Winery in Australia. This supple and smooth red has a distinct vanilla and chocolate character, plenty of bramble fruits with just a hint of pepper and spice. If dining out is your thing, you can order it at The King William IV pub in Totnes.

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Drink Beer of the week For those who like a little gentle sweetness in their beer, a cool Skinner’s Hops ‘n’ Honey is a wonderful thing. It quenched my thirst during a CAMRA rural-pubof-the-year presentation at the Star Inn, Vogue, near Redruth, the sweetness balanced by light orange citrus hop notes.

Darren Norbury

talks beer STILL A GOOD GUIDE? Just one month until the publication of the 2017 Good Beer Guide, and murmurings already on blogs as to whether the book is still relevant in a digital age. One of the things, presumably, that CAMRA is currently reviewing as part of its revitalisation programme.

see you there!

It’s new v old in the capital next week, with Westcountry beers among many hundreds on offer. At Olympia, from August 9-13, it’s the annual Great British Beer Festival, organised by CAMRA. For a more indie, hip vibe, the London Craft Beer Festival is returning to The Oval, Bethnal Green, from August 12-14.

hile others are engrossed in the forthe first with Corvus. It held blind tasting sestunes of Trump, the progress (or sions giving regular Guinness drinkers glasses not) of Brexit and the battle for the of their usual and the Corvus. Suffice to say the heart and soul of the Labour party, new brew now has the coveted Guinness spot on I find myself in yet another argumany Wadworth bars. ment about the definition of craft beer (albeit, We’re rather hoping the Mena Dhu stays on in a sunny beer garden, and in the company of at our local. The stout aficionados and the cask good drinking companions, so ale drinkers are both enjoying no great hardship really). it. If it has a fault, it does come I’m sticking to my guns that out quite cold, but once a bit of any beer which is made with a heat has been transferred from I’m sticking to degree of hands-on, artisanal hand to glass, the rich, roast my guns that care is a craft beer, but the malt, coffee, vanilla and slightly any beer which others around our umbrellasmokey flavours burst through. covered picnic bench aren’t And with a long-lasting, thick is made with a having it. The subject has come creamy head, it really is a thing degree of handsup because St Austell Mena Dhu of beauty. stout has appeared on the bar, I don’t wish Guinness any ill on, artisanal care in a spot previously occupied by will. Anyone who’s been to the is a craft beer Murphy’s and, before that, the brewery in Dublin and taken ubiquitous Guinness. the tour will testify that it comAlas, poor Guinness, I knew it plies with my definition of craft well. It was my beer of choice in beer. But I’m hoping Mena Dhu a strange bar where there was reaches the audience it deeither no real ale or where I didn’t like the look serves, at least through all St Austell houses and of what I saw. Most memorably taken on an away pockets of the free trade. pool match at St Just Rugby Club where it was As for winning my craft beer argument, any kept magnificently. But the Guinness fell out of chance I had disappeared entirely when I refavour in our bar, and the Murphy’s turned out counted how I’d enjoyed a pint of Worthington to be a short-lived replacement.

Creamflow on a hot sunny day at the Bluff Inn, There is quite a trend now for regional brewnear Hayle. I know, I know, but it hit the spot… eries to come up with their own interpretation Darren Norbury is editor of beertoday.co.uk of a Guinness-style brew. Wadworth was one of @beertoday

W

[[

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This Summer - Enjoy the Freedom of your own Holiday Home on the South Devon Coast.

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At Bovisand you will not find a clubhouse or organised entertainment, instead the emphasis is on conservation of the natural environment, creating a haven for wildlife and peaceful surroundings. Although rural, Bovisand is easily accessible and is centrally located to explore Dartmoor; towns and the historic fishing villages of Cornwall.

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02/08/2016 14:21:16

culture vulture Our guide to the best don’tmiss events coming up in the South West right now

Fashion to dye for Killerton’s 2016 exhibition, called Fashion To Dye For, is on show now until Sunday, October 30. Selected outfits from the huge collection here tell the story of how colour in fashion has evolved and signified different meanings over time.

Find out why black is associated with mourning, white with weddings and why red is seen as racy but was a masculine colour in the Tudor period. The exhibition also includes an exciting display of over 100 pieces of work by Exeter College Art and Design students, inspired by the ever-changing colour palette of Killerton’s estate. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton

Summer lunch

Sail away with me…

Falmouth Week has grown into the largest sailing regatta in the South West, with more than 450 yachts racing over eight days along with a lively programme of shore-side events. Apart from watching the exciting sailing on the water, there are activities from a marching carnival and a firework display to themed party nights and samba bands. In Events Square there’s a daytime artist and Cornish crafts market, as well as free fun for all the family at the “Science in the Square” event, while in the evening you’ll find a great line up of music acts. Falmouth Week is on now until August 14 and the event is free to attend. www.falmouthweek.co.uk

Long, summer days deserve to be filled with good food, so gather your friends and family for a lazy lunch in the 17th century barn at River Cottage HQ near Axminster.

You’ll enjoy three courses of River Cottage fare featuring the freshest summer produce from their garden, and there will be plenty of time to drink in the glorious countryside it sprang from.

Take a stroll, explore the farm and then settle in for a feast. Adult tickets £55, children under 12 £10. There are dates left for August but booking is essential. Book online at www. rivercottage.net.

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02/08/2016 13:53:39

Sophie Robehmed with her 'twin' Lauren

Double trouble Sophie Robehmed from Devon set out to find her double - her unrelated twin and the results will surprise you.. t was November 7, 2011. The date I started searching for my doppelgänger. I was working as a freelance journalist in London at the time when I came up with an idea for a social experiment for a magazine feature. I wanted to see if it was possible to find a complete stranger who looked like me, by using social media, word of mouth... by any means possible.

The idea that each and everyone of us has an unrelated clone going about their day-to-day life, living it up in Exeter, where I grew up, or Ecuador, fascinated me. It still does.

I set out guidelines for my #doyoulooklikeme project: I wanted to find an everyday person as opposed to a celebrity (unless of course a familiar face was, indeed, my doppelgänger), who also happened to be a similar age and looked like me. If this person existed and I could track her down, I wanted to find out if the similarities went deeper than our aesthetics.

The first thing I did was create a blog explaining what I was doing and why. I also made a YouTube video, set up a Facebook page, met a facial recognition expert for a BBC video. Before long, my search went viral and led to press coverage and interviews around the world.

I took to Twitter too, targeting high-profile tweeters, in which I used #doyoulooklikeme as a hashtag in an attempt to get my search trending and to give the project an identity.

Comedian Dom Joly and writers Caitlin Moran, India Knight and Jill Mansell all helped spread the word, which led to lookalike suggestions, which were, admittedly, predominantly celebrities like Natalie Portman, Helena Bonham-Carter and Keira Knightley. Flattering, but not quite right. I received my first genuinely promising suggestion the day after I shared #doyoulooklikeme on my Facebook timeline:

I

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Enjoy

Sophie found she was not the only person to find their unrelated twin

Lauren, a Birmingham-based filmmaker, who for their doppelgänger. was suggested by a guy we’d both worked with My campaign has never been a vanity project in the past. and I would say the majority, if not all, of these He had even told Lauren at the people do not appear to be motime that she looked just like me. tivated by narcissism either.

Soon after, Lauren and I became Rather, it seems that a lot of Facebook friends. Browsing her people have an innate curiosity We captured pictures, I could certainly see to come face-to-face with someour meeting our likeness. And the fact she one who faces the world as they was a fellow creative made it all do, to determine whether they with plenty the more exciting. really are as individual as they of pictures, in We finally met on August 27 think they are. Some even have a which she looks 2013. We got on really well. Our very real desire to connect with biggest similarities seemed to rea stranger who just happens to a lot like the volve around our careers, friendlook like they do. Apparently, younger sister I ly, open, easy-going nature and we might all have not one but sartorial choices. We captured seven doppelgängers roaming don’t have our meeting with plenty of picthis mortal coil. So, before you tures, in which she looks a lot like dismiss your chances, and mine, the younger sister I don’t have. the possibility of coming face-toStill, my search, my story, isn’t over yet, as face with another you might just be around the readers of my new book, Doppelgänger: My corner.

Search For Another Me will find out. The book is a dual narrative, which will examine the doppelgänger phenomenon – everything from how is it genetically possible that doubles even exist to why couples often look alike, and all points in between – while documenting my quest to find my own double.

It’s been taken on by the award-winning publisher, Unbound, that puts books back in readers hands. So that means it’s up to readers like you – and enough people pre-ordering the book – for it to get published. There’s a host of rewards on offer for your support, too. (OK, I’ll stop trying to sell you my book…)

Since starting this experiment, I’ve found the interaction with strangers around the world particularly interesting, alongside the staggering number of strangers, who are also looking

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You can pre-order Sophie’s book, Doppelgänger: My Search for Another Me, at unbound.co.uk/books/ doppelganger

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Enjoy A WEEKEND IN

TRURO

ornwall’s one and only city, Truro thrived as a port and the prosperity of the late 18th and early 19th century that continues to this day can be seen in the elegant town houses that line the city’s streets. Centre stage is Truro Cathedral with its impressive gothic towers dominating the city skyline. Steeped in history and awe-inspiring architecture, there is plenty to see and do in this great little city.

C

Stay:

The Courtyard at The Alverton is a brand-new complex of 15 individually designed bedrooms and suites. Set a short distance from the main hotel, The Courtyard is a haven. Each of the rooms has been individually designed and includes the finest materials from some of the world’s top designer brands and modern features to make every stay enjoyable. The Chapel Suite is the crown jewel of The Courtyard where a freestanding roll-top copper bath sits under a stained-glass window, the perfect spot to unwind, relax and recharge (with a glass of wine in hand, of course!). The original features of The Courtyard have been uncovered and are now celebrated throughout, with every room paying homage to its illustrious past. Arched doorways and windows, original flagstone flooring and exposed brickwork compliment DAB radios, USB mobile charger ports and movement sensored lighting.

Eat (and drink):

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The Alverto a complementary tasting. Exton Restaurant offers a relaxplore the chilled, cobbled cellar A freestanding ing haven in which guests and where the whiskey barrels lie, visitors can enjoy a wide range or the lovingly planted orchards roll-top copper of British favourites. Overlookwhere apples drop fresh from bath sits under ing the garden and terrace, the trees. With fascinating talks a stained-glass it is bathed with light during as you walk, an eye-opening the day, whilst in the evening kids’ quiz and a film that reveals window, the you can enjoy a more intimate a year in the life of a working perfect spot to dining experience. Grab lunch cyder farm, this is a day out like in the brasserie or sample the no other. unwind, relax hotel’s famous afternoon tea and recharge with delicate finger sandwichExplore: The Royal Cornwall es, freshly baked scones and Museum has acquired a wide cakes. At night you can indulge and varied collection encomin fresh seasonal dishes includpassing all aspects of Cornwall’s ing the highly recommended maple roast duck history, culture and environment. Treasures breast with dauphinoise potatoes from Head include a 5,000-year-old jade axe, the 4,000-yearChef Simon George and his brigade. The restauold Cornish lunulae and the 2,500-year-old Egyprant, which was awarded a second AA Rosette tian Mummy. You can measure up against the only a few weeks ago, truly is fine dining at its Cornish Giant, examine a famous explorer’s best. medicine chest and explore the internationally famous Rashleigh mineral collection with over Don’t Miss: Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm is 1,200 beautiful specimens on display. Running a small independent family run business that now until the November 12, there’s also a special brews and sells its own cider, brandy, whisky, ‘Exploring Beauty’ exhibition where Cornwallcountry fruit wines and apple juice, all of which based artist Tony Foster invited Sir David Atare produced on site. You’re welcome to look tenborough and other ‘luminaries’ to name the around their press house, bottlery and jam kitchworld’s most beautiful wild places, before setting en free of charge and even treat your tastebuds out on a 10-year odyssey to paint them.

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The Chapel Suite

Healey’s farm tours

The Malpas River

Must See: No visit to Truro is complete without taking in the magnificence of Truro Cathedral with its three soaring spires forming an iconic part of the city’s skyline. Standing serenely amid the bustle of the city centre, the Gothic Revival-style cathedral holds daily services throughout the week and offers guided tours in the summer months for those who’d like to delve deeper into its fascinating history. The cathedral also hosts a wide range of special events including concerts and art exhibitions.

Shop: The award-winning Lemon Street Market, situated in the heart of the city, is the epitome of all that is great about Cornwall.

Bursting with individual shops, offering foods, gifts, furniture and even a barber, it’s an oasis in the centre of Truro. On the first floor you will discover The Lander Gallery, Cornwall’s largest selection of combined classic and contemporary art, all with a Cornish theme. Illustrated Living, run by Chris and Rosie Houghton, stocks stylish gifts and an eclectic mix of desirable homewares from British designers such as Orla Kiely, Angie Lewin, Lush Lampshades and Rob Ryan, as well as modern Scandinavian glassware, ceramics and textiles from Marimekko, ISAK, Ferm Living and Sagaform – make sure you pay this fantastic store a visit, but be prepared to walk out with one of everything!

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My Secret Westcountry Ian Wellens Ian Wellens, 57, runs The Cheese Shed, an online cheese retailer specialising in Westcountry cheeses, including cheese gift boxes and cheese wedding cakes. He lives in Bovey Tracey, south Dartmoor with his wife Susie.

My favourite: Walk: The coastal path at Zennor is a spectacular slice of the Cornish coast and you can look foreward to dropping in to The Tinner’s Arms at the end of it.

Place to eat: Riverford Field Kitchen in Buckfastleigh. It’s not a vegetarian restaurant but vegetables are to the fore in the dishes served here. It never disappoints. Service is informal and friendly, the food is served in large sharing dishes and you eat communally. Susie and I love it there.

Weekend escape: The National Trust rents out a historic property called Carolina Cellar at Port Quin on the north Cornwall coast. It has the view to end all views, looking down the rocky inlet to the sea. Time your visit right and you can take in some fabulous concerts at the St Endellon festival just up the road.

View: Looking south from Belstone Tor, Dartmoor provides a breathtaking panorama of true wilderness.

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Belstone Tor

PHOTO: ANDREW SWEENEY

People

Port Quin

Pub: The Pilchard Inn on Burgh Island is tiny but unique, nestling below the 1930s art deco hotel and looking across to the mainland. Sit and watch the sea below, as the island’s famous sea tractor ferries guests across the causeway Food: Quicke’s Ewes’ Milk Clothbound Cheese is, I am sure, the world’s sexiest cheese. If this gets too popular, the birthrate will soar.

Drink: Any Luscombe juice. I love everything this great Devon-based producer comes out with. Pushed for a favourite, I’d go for their apple and pear.

Secret place: Hidden deep in the woods on a hill behind Bovey Tracey, Shap Tor is up an insignificant-looking side path. The reward for your climb is a stunning view up the valley that leads north to Moretonhampstead.

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My life

MAN AND BOY

Next slide, please ne of the great delights of children is their innate ability to spread joy; to spirit you away from the dull grown-up world into a land of wonderment. We adults tend to forget the rejuvenating power of play whereas these naïve, innocent creatures flit without a care from one adventure to the next - skipping, painting, dancing and singing their way through life.

Smart phones and tablets may have changed humanity but the leisure society promised to my generation is yet to arrive - if anything, we seem to work harder and longer now despite all the gadgets. Technology may be the way the world winds down but when you earn a living in the media, screen time is not really down time.

So I was a little perplexed the other day when I came home ready for a dose of An offer from my child’s play six-year-old that only to receive an offer from would normally my six-yearsend a shudder old son that down my spine: would normally send a shud‘Daddy, do you der down my want to see my spine: ‘Daddy, Powerpoint do you want to see my Powerpresentation?’

Point presentation?’

It is generally accepted that kids are maturing faster these days, but are they also getting more serious? I was immediately reminded of tortuous afternoons spent in semi-darkened rooms watching slide after slide pass by; my life ebbing away with every click of a hand-

O

held mouse. But hang on, I thought. Free-spirited young James could not have dreamt up anything so dull or so interminable. He had obviously been studying the software and had cobbled together a

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few images. It would be a bit of fun; nothing too arduous. Before you know it we would be back in the comforting world of silliness, acting daft and having fun. ‘Oh-kay,’ I said, kicking off my shoes.

‘What is it about?’ ‘Sea creatures,’ he said. ‘I have done sixty nine slides.’ Right, I thought, and I settled down for the duration.

Off he went, merrily clicking through. To be fair, he had sourced some great pictures from the internet and presented them with captions.

Some of the spellings were great, some of them so wildly wrong whilst also being phonetically perfect that I had to stop myself laughing out loud. It was an eclectic collection, full of terrifying great whites, tiger sharks and even obscure species like the goblin. There were creatures from the dark ‘midnight zone’ like the vampire squid; there were sharp-toothed angler fish, gulper eels, siphonophores (me neither), deadly jellyfish and strange reef crawlers with exterior digesting stomachs.

If there was a common theme which knitted together this aquatic menagerie it would have to be danger. Everywhere was ruthless predation, poison, fangs. Seeing these denizens of the deep all lined up one after another made you wonder why the hell anyone ever so much as dipped a toe in the briny. It was carnage in there.

Then he capped the show with the final slide and made a fool of me for thinking this was random: an image of clear Caribbean seas lapping against pure white sands; a blue sky, palm trees in the background. It was the perfect holiday destination. The lad tapped the mouse pad and the final message scrolled down. Don’t forget to enjoy your day at the beach!

A punchline. ‘Brilliant,’ I told him, ruffling his hair. ‘You should do more.’

Oh I have,’ he snapped back, double clicking to open a folder. My god, he had. There were dozens in there.

NEXT WEEK: Chris McGuire on starting his new life in the South West

MAIN PICTURE: STEVE HAYWOOD

Phil Goodwin and James, six, unwind with an educational presentation

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