West Magazine May 20 2017 by DCMedia

20.05.17

DISCOVER Devon’s coolest new hotel

summer style solutions

WIN!

Dinner for two worth £100

YOUNG AMBITION Torquay’s Lily Cole on books, babies and being a supermodel

- pg12 Cover_May20.indd 1

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Summer style

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16/05/2017 13:14:09

‘I believe that absolutely anything is possible. That is what has spurred me on’ Torquay-born supermodel Lily Cole on her life plans, p12

OUT OF THE BLUE The newest shade for today’s interiors

LILY’S ON A MISSION We talk to Torquay’s superstar

[contents[ Inside this week... 6

THE WISHLIST Our pick of the best treats this week

JUST BETWEEN US... Sh! We have all the latest gossip

LILY’S ON A MISSION We talk to Torquay’s supermodel

AIMING HIGH

AIMING HIGH Meet Michael Caines in his new hotel

RECIPE OF THE WEEK Mitch Tonks cooks up a storm

Looking around Devon’s latest luxury hotel

OUT OF THE BLUE The newest shade for today’s interiors

JUST ASK GRACIE Our style guru solves your problems

LOVELY LINEN The perfect fabric for summertime

BOOST YOUR WELLBEING Great ways to feel your best this week

SMALL BITES What’s hot in the South West foodie world

YOUR STARS THIS WEEK Cassandra Nye has your latest horoscope

SECRET WESTCOUNTRY Where to go, what to do

FULLY CHARGED Chris McGuire runs out of battery (again)

SECRET WESTCOUNTRY Where to go, what to do

STAYING COOL

Let linen be the answer this summer 3

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SIMPLY GORGEOUS

Devon’s new luxury hotel

[ welcome [ The Westcountry is certainly not short of talent, is it? ave you heard the buzz about the brand new hotel set up by Devon chef Michael Caines? We’ve been lucky enough to have a look around Lympstone Manor and it is, indeed, gorgeous. The decor is breath-taking, the food is aiming for a three-star Michelin grading and the whole transformation of a run-down Georgian mansion is really quite remarkable. We get to meet Michael and find out what drives him on page 16 today - it’s quite a story, from being given up for adoption as a baby, suffering life-changing injuries in a car crash to becoming one of the country’s top chefs (and now,

[

hoteliers). It’s a truly impressive achievement. Another star whose roots lie in Westcountry soil is the supermodel turned actress Lily Cole, who spent her early childhood in Torquay. We have a wonderful interview with Lily this week, in which she tells us all about making the move from looking beautiful in pictures to performing in films and on stage. She most definitely is a lot more than a (very) pretty face. Elsewhere in the magazine, we have the new fashion season very much in mind, with great new options for your summer wardrobe - from casual dressing to linen frocks. Have a lovely weekend!

The transformation of a run-down Georgian mansion is remarkable

of the week

@LooseyLocket

Great evening @ ExeterRaces with these lovely ladies helping to judge the best dressed

[

[ [

TO ADVERTISE: Contact Cathy Long: 01752 293017 or 07557 576668, clong@dc-media.co.uk

Becky Sheaves

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

COVER IMAGE: BBC - Harry Truman

MEET THE TEAM Becky Sheaves, Editor

Phil Goodwin

Kathryn Clarke-McLeod

Gillian Molesworth

Cathy Long

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If you do one thing this week... Why not treat yourself to a delicious meal in one of Plymouth’s most talked-about eateries? Celebrity chef Marco Pierre White has just opened a brand new restaurant on the top floor of Plymouth’s Holiday Inn, with sea views over the Hoe and towards Cornwall. Marco’s Steakhouse is a contemporary and fun restaurant where you can enjoy an interesting menu, tasty steaks and good service all in a wow-factor setting. It’s what Marco calls “affordable glamour”. www.mpwrestaurants.co.uk

Win

We have a three-course meal for two at Marco’s Steakhouse in Plymouth, with a bottle of wine, to be won worth up to £100. To enter, simply tell us in which hotel you’ll find Marco’s new Plymouth restaurant. Send your answers, together with your name, address, phone number and email to: Marco’s Steakhouse competition, westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk to arrive by June 2 2017. Alternatively, you can post your entry to: Marco’s Steakhouse competition, West magazine, Queen’s House, Little Queen Street, Exeter EX4 3LJ. Normal terms apply, West will not share your details. 5

EdsLetter_One Thing_May 20.indd 5

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Moroccan lantern £22 Sainsbury’s Home

Velvet chair £425 Oliver Bonas

the

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

Wicker bag £25 East

Tanisha balconette bra and briefs £42 Boux Avenue

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Wishlist

Beach wrap £50 Seaspray Amela bead necklace £25 East

fave!

Mosaic frame £6 Wilkinson An easy way to look good on the beach

Luiisa sandals £95 Dune

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talking points Fenella Tobey

Story of my life... When plans don’t work out as you expected hen I started this column, I was a graduate student looking for a job - and not just any job, a job in journalism. Funny isn’t it, when you consider I went to university to study Drama? At school, Drama was my thing, I was in all the school actress - I still love Drama! - and plays. But never the cool ones then there are some more stable, - while my rivals were in skinlucrative and sensible options. tight Lycra playing Sandy from But acting’s my number one. Grease, I would be in a bonnet The one I’ve been running from. and leg-of-mutton sleeves, lookYes I want to do it, but it’s going ing like a human Easter egg and to be hard, and I’m afraid of failplaying Mary Warren in The ing. And as pathetic as it sounds Crucible. I don’t want to be a cliché - the At the age of 17 I was suddenly wannabe actor. responsible for the rest of my Devon has been my Limbo, as life, as I was constantly being much as I love it. it’s not where asked what I I’m supposed to wanted to do with be right now. My it. Too quickly, at life has been like Now, I am not that age, real life a broken record seems to close in juddering helpsaying university around you. And lessly, but never was a mistake. I the realisation forwards. It feels kicks in: one day, like time is speedmade my greatest I will have to get ing up and leavfriends and a job! ing me behind. fondest memories The belief Old friends was that if you ask me why I am there. But I don’t wanted a good not acting. I feel have a job job then you had guilty, like I have to have a degree. betrayed them So even those of and betrayed us that probably shouldn’t have myself. They have expectations gone, went to university. Now, and so do I. I know I would never I am not saying university was forgive myself if I didn’t try. a mistake. I made some of the Cowards don’t try. I am not a greatest friends and fondest coward. Who knows, I may not memories there. And I did get a like it. I may run back to Devon good degree. But I don’t have a and be happy keeping sheep and job. spending my days knitting jumpAnd now it is time to support ers. Or, that could be me in the myself. Yet again I ask myself next series of Call The Midwife. what I want to do with my life? There’s only one way to find out. How can I possibly choose, there I’m moving to London in are so many avenues I want to August. I may be a cliché but I’ll pursue. One of them is to be an be a cliché with a plan.

A WINNING

combo

Posing for a photo shoot after she defeated Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark in the Miami Open tennis tournament, British tennis star Johanna Konta was all smiles - and who can blame her? We love her black and white dress which she teamed with a pair of white trainers for a sporty weekend vibe.

Striped shirt dress £20 Simply Be

steal her

style

OR MAKE IT YOUR OWN

OPTION B Delightful

Paisley dress £75 Cath Kidston

OPTION A Dotty

Tie-front tea dress £35 Bonmarché

Next week: Fenella on life in the boomerang generation. Gillian Molesworth is having a break but will return to West next month 8

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20.05.17

RHOD’S A SHY GUY Rhod Gilbert is, of course, Welsh (he was born in Carmarthen) but did you know he studied here in the Westcountry, at Exeter University? Apparently, for the first three weeks he was a Languages student there, he was so painfully shy that he could not eat with other students in the canteen or even make friends with the student in the next room. You’d think that, these days, the successful comedian would be feeling more confident – but apparently not. “To be honest, I don’t think I’m any different now to how I was back then,” he said recently. “I still have the same hang-ups

and anxieties, like striking up a conversation with a stranger or asking a girl for a dance – I still have problems with things like that. “Being well-known has sort of cured the problem because often it’s other people who’ll make the initial approach and come up to me for a chat. “But I don’t think I’ll ever completely shake the low self-esteem that robs me of the ability to go up to someone new and chat without feeling I’m being rude and intruding.” West says: Aw Rhod, that’s really rather sweet!

Just

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

MIA TAKES AFTER MUM

DEBBIE’S COMING WEST We’re SO excited that Blondie are playing in Cornwall this summer. The Tide is High stars – led by iconic punk beauty Debbie Harry – will be appearing at the Eden Project on June 23. The band is currently in the UK drumming up publicity for their upcoming tour and Debbie is still wowing everyone with her striking looks at the age of 71. She says: “I like compliments. I have an ego. You know, I’ve gotten kind of vain over the years with everybody commenting on my being

such a beauty!” It’s not entirely natural however, she has admitted in the past: “Yeah, I had a facelift years ago. Why not? It gives you all the things you need to be part of the action. I don’t feel like hiding myself away. “Everybody knows that I’ve had plastic surgery. I did it for business reasons. You photograph better, and looks are a key part of being an entertainer, so I felt it was something I had to do.”

Zara Tindall’s daughter Mia is shaping up to be a keen rider just like her mum (not to mention her grandmother Princess Anne and great-grandmother The Queen!), Zara’s husband Mike Tindall said recently. “Mia our daughter has inherited a love of horses, she has a Shetland pony and she enjoys it so I think her mum has passed that love on…” he said. Mike – a rugby international - says he hopes Mia will be sporty like her parents: “She’s got quite a little personality on her, and we encourage that. We have always had sport in our lives and through our childhood. I think that really is important in every child’s life to have that opportunity. I think we have got it off our parents and hopefully we can pass that on to Mia.” Zara – who went to Port Regis school in Dorset - held the World Champion Eventing title between 2006 and 2010, is a former BBC Sports Personality of the Year and also won a silver medal at the 2012 Olympics. Mike has captained England’s rugby team and was in the 2003 World Cup winning squad. Quite a lot to live up to, Mia, but just enjoy it!

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Sitting comfortably: Helpful Holidays gave a bench to the Farms For City Children charity in Iddesleigh

in pictures Made it to the end Teenagers completed this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gruelling Ten Tors Challenge on Dartmoor

We did it! A young fan enjoys the Plymouth Argyle parade celebrating promotion to League One

In full bloom: Oddicombe Beach, Torquay

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talking points A HISTORY

of the

WEST in

100

objects 46: ANCESTOR FIGURE

The best way to:

ENJOY A SUMMER EVENING With the arrival of longer evenings, there is nothing nicer than to be outdoors as the sun goes down. Fenella Tobey suggests a few places to enjoy the last of the rays... on the end to watch the dusk fall over Restronguet Creek. Then gaze peacefully at the silhouettes of bobbing boats and rolling hills beyond. www. pandorainn.com

Dartmoor: It’s not just the coast that offers the perfect sunset view, you know! Head inland to Dartmoor and perch on a tor to see a panoramic 360-degree view of the Westcountry. Simply fabulous. Combesgate Beach: At the far end

Watergate Bay: Head for this stunning north Cornwall beach for a superb sundowner. Whether you are hunkered down in the sand, or nestled on top of the cliffs with blankets and a hot chocolate the Atlantic views are worth seeing from every angle. Or you could book a table at Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Cornwall and enjoy the view with a glass of wine and a plateful of something delicious! www. fifteencornwall.co.uk

Pandora Inn: Tumble out of the Pandora Inn, near Falmouth, warm and full of food, perhaps still clutching your last drink. Wander down the pontoon and perch

of Woolacombe beach in north Devon you will find Combesgate beach. Only accessible between low and mid tide, Combesgate offers a dramatic and picturesque sunset; with rock pools reflecting the pinky hues of the sun. Civilisation may feel a world away here but heaven seems almost tangible.

Easter Island to Exeter, via Topsham, collected in 1868 Julien Parsons is the Senior Collections Officer, The Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) in Exeter. He says: An extraordinary wooden figure was added to our museum’s collection in the 1870s. It is about 18 inches tall, and with skinny ribs and prominent cheekbones is often described as “emaciated” (I’d prefer to call it stylised). Crucially, attached to the gift was a name, “Sainthill”, and a place, Topsham. Sainthill is an old Devon surname. One of the many sea-faring members of the extended family was Lieutenant Richard Sainthill, paymaster on board the English frigate HMS Topaze. In 1868 Topaze was cruising the Pacific when it briefly surveyed Easter Island, or Rapa Nui. This tiny island had once supported a population of 15,000 people, but by the time Topaze arrived only a few hundred were left. They presented the crew with two of the world-famous stone statues, which Sainthill helped transport back to Britiain – one named Hoa Hakananai’a is now at the British Museum. A few years later, Sainthill’s family in Topsham passed to RAMM other objects he had brought back, including the wooden figure which is incredibly rare: one of a handful of surviving 19th-century examples

from Rapa Nui. It is carved from toromiro wood and the eyes are inset with shell and black volcanic glass, or obsidian. The precious figure represented an ancestral spirit. He was carefully wrapped and stored in the rafters of a house, only to be seen during ceremonial occasions.

#46

On display in Gallery 12, Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter until July www.rammuseum.org.uk

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People

LILY’S ON A MISSION The Torquay-born supermodel and actress Lily Cole first found fame at 14. Now a mother herself, she tells Gabrielle Fagan about her latest project - to promote brand new literary talent ily Cole’s ethereal good looks long red hair, elfin bone structure and alabaster skin - projected her to supermodel stardom when she was a teenager. But that was just for starters, as she explains: “I was only 14 when it began. Although modelling was a fascinating experience, and great opportunity which allowed me to travel and meet creative people and gave me confidence in my looks, I knew from the beginning it would only ever be part-time. “I had loads of other things that I was determined to do.” So since then, she’s made the move to acting, appearing in films including the remake of St Trinian’s and The Imaginarium Of Doctor Parnassus. And that’s not all - Lily also runs her own skill-sharing online company, Impossible.

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People

com, is currently appearing on stage in The Philanthropist in London, and will shortly be seen in the title role in Channel Five’s historical drama, Elizabeth I. It is fair to say that these are busy times for the 29-year-old, who has a 17-month-old daughter with her partner, Portuguese entrepreneur, Kwame Ferreira, 38. But she is enjoying every minute of it. “I’ve always loved performing. I got the acting bug at six when I did a couple of short films, and later on I won a performing arts scholarship to secondary school. My work as a model was so visible and visual that it’s had a tendency to overshadow other things I’ve done, but those who really know me, know there are other more important achievements in my life.” Lily was born in Torquay thanks to her boatbuilder and fisherman father Chris Cole. Her mother, Patience Owen, is an artist and writer, and she and Chris parted ways when Lily was tiny. She and her sister Eveline were then raised by their mother in London, where Lily went to the Sylvia Young stage school. She will be 30 this year, in December. “When you’re a teenager, it’s an age you think you’ll never reach as it’s ‘so old’, but now I’m looking forward to it. I feel I’ve achieved a lot in the last decade, with a rich life with diverse friends and work opportunities, and I’m looking to do more in the next decade. Like anyone, I have good and bad days, but generally I feel pretty happy with where I am.” M o t h e r hood has had a lot to do with her sense of contentment, she explains: “When I had Wylde, the love was so unconditional that it totally overwhelmed me, and it’s brought me so much happiness. She’s changed my life significantly and made me more grounded. I can only describe her as a gift and an incredibly positive addition to my life. She’s 17 months and so far, she’s certainly

living up to her name, but in a lovely, positive way. “She’s full of life, curiosity and is a very affectionate, contented child. Life’s not about me now, it’s about the responsibility of making her strong, happy and confident.” Lily says becoming a mother has helped her to realise what’s important - the fundamental values of kindness and looking after close relationships and family. “That’s why I made the decision to rearrange things so my work on my Impossible.com company is not so consuming, and I can focus more on creative work like acting

‘I believe that absolutely

anything is possible. That is

what has spurred me on’

and directing, and can spend as much time with Wylde. “I don’t have a fixed idea about whether we’ll have another child or whether I’ll consider adopting. I’m aware there are so many kids out there who could benefit from loving homes.” She says that her other half, Kwame, is a supportive and hands-on dad: “But he also runs a sizeable company and we work together (on Impossible.com) - it’s how we met - so he’s as busy as me. “When I was pregnant, we had a conversation about how we’d share the parenting responsibility so it would be 50/50. For so many couples, it defaults to the woman, but if a woman’s career is as important as the man’s, that needs thinking about and addressing from the beginning. “We do divide it, but it’s not an exact science. For instance, I’m obviously doing 100% of the breastfeeding! By and large we try to strike a bal-

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Lily Cole outside Parliament campaigning to end global illiteracy

ance and try to call it out if ever one of us feels it’s not level. And life has changed in many ways, she admits: “Since I’ve had Wylde, I’ve caved in about having a TV - I hadn’t had one since I was a teenager living at home - and now we have one at the end of our bed as it’s so de-stressing at the end of a day relaxing there and watching box sets.” But above all, Lily is passionate about books and literature, which is why she is delighted to be on the judging panel for the Kindle Storyteller Awards this year. The competition is an opportunity for new writers to win £20,000 worth of support for e-publishing their new book. “Books have been important to me ever since I was little. I was a real bookworm. “Going to Cambridge University [Lily achieved a double first in History of Art] was another opportunity to bury myself in books, but I’m still

trying to catch up on all the wonderful books out there that I long to read. “I’m super-excited about being a judge for the Kindle Storyteller Award 2017 and hope it will give loads of people who might have a great idea, or have dreamed of becoming a writer, the opportunity to have a go.” “When I was writing my university thesis, I interviewed the physicist Stephen Hawking, and I asked him if he thought absolutely anything was possible. He said, ‘Yes’, so I thought he was a pretty good authority on the subject. I’ve believed that ever since, and it’s spurred me on. “That said, these days I also try to be mindful and live in the present, because it’s so important to appreciate and be grateful for the moment and not always be chasing the next dream.” Entries close for The Kindle Storyteller Award 2017 on May 19. Visit www.amazon.co.uk/storyteller 15

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Interview

AIMING HIGH Michael Caines tells Chris McGuire about the ambitious plans for his new Devon hotel, Lympstone Manor ’ll not be happy!” said one old lady, “ so everyone on the bus could hear, he ruins that place, Courtlands I “if House. Lovely it is!” Her companion nodded in agreement. “In fact, if he does, I’ll never watch his films ever again! He should stick to acting. Blooming Michael Caine!” I overheard this conversation between a pair of confused locals, just over a year ago. Today I find myself in the stunning surroundings of the renamed and renovated Lympstone Manor (formerly Courtlands House), the Westcountry’s new luxury hotel, talking to the man behind it all. Not the actor Michael Caine, of course - the chef Michael Caines. Indeed, Michael, 48, and I are seated in one of Lympstone Manor’s lounges – with beautiful views of the Exe Estuary – discussing the hotel, a project he clearly sees as the high point of an already impressive career. Born in Exeter in 1969, Michael was adopted soon afterwards: “I was adopted at the age of six weeks old into a loving family. I’m not a privileged kid. I didn’t get given anything, I’ve had to work for it.” Work he did. Michael attended catering college in Exeter and went on to train under likes of Raymond Blanc. At the age of 25, he had 16

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just taken over as head chef at Gidleigh Park on Dartmoor when a car accident changed his life. As Michael said at the time: “I was working seven days a week, because it was a new job and we had few staff, and you want to make a good impression.” Falling asleep at the wheel, he had a horrific crash – robbing the chef of his right arm. The resolve and determination he showed to get back into the kitchen is the stuff of culinary legend, although he doesn’t much want to dwell on it these days. “I didn’t want to let this beat me. All the time I’d spent learning my trade, I wasn’t about to give up without a fight. The accident made me incredibly focused on achieving.” Michael went to win (and keep for 18 years) two Michelin stars at Gidleigh Park, which is owned by the hotelier Andrew Brownsword. At Lympstone Manor, however, the chef has gone it alone, first buying the property himself and then appealing to affluent individuals to invest. Apparently, he asked 11 people to put money in and eight agreed to do so - the project has cost upwards of £8 million. It was a risk, he admits: “Anything I had is all in here, everything. My money, my personal wealth - I’m not going to disclose the figures. The point is ‘I’m all in’.” And he is aiming high. Rooms start at £350 a night for two and the best room tips over the £1,000 a night mark in the summer season. The a la carte dinner is £115 a head. This is a place

‘I’ve put in my money, my personal wealth:

for the internationally wealthy to enjoy. Just as well Michael is the head chef for the Williams Formula One racing team! Coffee arrives and is placed on a (vastly) expensive-looking coffee table. As he talks I’m gripped by the desire to avoid spilling any of the drink onto the opulent furniture. I find myself developing the shakes. In an attempt for focus I bring up the planning

the point is, I’m all in’

controversy that came with the project – not necessarily his favourite subject: “We’ve affected a few people’s lives. I don’t deny it. It’s never easy is it? To have a hotel created on your doorstep.” In fairness, the 21 bedroom hotel is set in its own 28 acre grounds leading down to the River Exe but its approach road runs through the suburban outskirts of Exmouth. Michael is evangelical in his conviction of the good Lympstone Manor will bring to the local economy: “I think when we measure the impact this business will have on people’s lives in the

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Interview

future, it’ll be overwhelmingly positive. And you know what, I’m not the sort of person who doesn’t like a fight. I’ve got through adversity,” he continues, “so dealing with a few planning issues, at times annoying, was all part of the game.” When I try to move conversation in the direction of his personal life, however, I find it’s an area that he wants to avoid. “I won’t talk too much about my private life,” he says, closing the door on the subject. Michael does, however, concede he has three children, Joseph, Hope and India. I wonder aloud about those precious Michelin stars. His plan is straightforward: “First of all get back the two stars then push on for a third. That’s my goal.” There’s that determination again. He’s certainly not one for false modesty: “Everything you see here is a product of my imagination. It is stunning. I want people to see it as the new benchmark. You know, I’ve been very brave here. It takes a bit of imagination, yes sure,

but that imagination is still vibrant in the food. Still vibrant in my local regional connection. Still vibrant in the reason why people will come here, because they want to be part of this.” Just as we’re wrapping up, the conversation takes a surprising turn back to Michael’s private life. “Of course there’s always a bit of drama and glamour. My life seems incredibly glamorous to people but it’s hard work. I know I’m on TV and this, that and the other. I’m a bit of a superstar perhaps in some people’s view and I’ve done incredibly well. But that’s just what they see. I say don’t confuse what I do with who I am. There’s a person there that’s sensitive. There’s a person there that works incredibly hard. “I’m not particularly proud of the fact that not all my relationships have worked out because of my workload,” he continues, referring, presumably, to his relationship with ex-wife Ruth. “But that’s people’s lives, that’s private. Why should

that be dragged in? It shouldn’t be. You don’t expect your laundry to be aired, just because you’re successful at what you do. It’s ridiculous.” It’s fascinating to hear the frustrations of a man used to being in control, dealing with an arena that persistently refuses to fall into line. “There’s a driven man here,” says Michael, of himself, in the context of the hotel, “but also there’s a sense of being frustrated that I haven’t really been able to show myself. So here I am.” We both look for a moment at the idyllic scene around us. “It’s not easy, life. You have dreams, follow them and they do materialise.” Stepping out of Lympstone Manor, I’m sure the old ladies on the bus wouldn’t have been disappointed – the historic house is in very safe hands. Crunching down the gravel drive, another thought hits me. I’ve never been so glad not to have spilled my coffee. www.lympstonemanor.co.uk

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drink

wellbeing

days out

fashion 21

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Live life in full colour Bold blues and brave moves... Gabrielle Fagan talks to leading stylist Hans Blomquist and finds out his views on getting wild with colour

ometimes nature knows best, but who’d have thought it also holds the answers to home decorating? Looking to the skies and the changing colours of the landscape is the newest (and highly welcome) alternative to struggling with perplexing paint charts, and it’s the method used by one of the world’s leading stylists. Hans Blomquist, renowned for his work as an art director with major home brands, including Ikea, Harrods, Marks & Spencer, John Lewis and Zara Home, reveals that looking up to the skies - whether sunny blue, stormy or rain-lashed horizons - as well as noticing the seasons, is his perfect inspiration for winning interiors. “It’s easy to take colour for granted. We forget to appreciate the amazing, dazzling world that surrounds us, full of a million different shades that have the power to lift our spirits or soothe our mood,” says Hans, whose beautifully illustrated book, In The Mood For Colour: Perfect Palettes For Creative Interiors, is a guide to seeing colour in a completely different light.

“Nature is my starting point for any project. For my job, I’m lucky enough to travel the world and colour surprises me wherever I go - I’m often transfixed by the different colours and lights I’ve experienced in different parts of the globe. Most of my inspiration comes from the colours of the natural world. There is beauty to be found nearly

‘Painting walls a deep blue will give you a sense of summer all year round’ everywhere you go and nature always inspires me with its wonderful colour combinations.” The perfect palette is out there just waiting to be seen, he says, and the easiest way of finding out what appeals is to take photos on your phone, of whatever catches your eye, over a period of

time. “Next time you leave your house, whether you’re passing through familiar landscapes or visiting a different country, look around and marvel at the variety of colours that surround you. You’ll end up with a collection of pictures which display a wide range of different colours and textures that will be a rich source of inspiration and help you refine your taste.” Blue’s a colour that works especially well when you layer up different shades to create a tone-on-tone effect, and Hans promises it will result in a harmonious interior with a sense of depth and calm. “I consider myself a ‘blue’ person. Painting walls a deep blue will give you a sense of summer all year round, and you can add warmth with natural objects and colours,” he enthuses. “Denim blue, greyish blue, duck-egg blue, shades of blue that veer towards green, and anything in between are all favourites of mine. “There’s nothing more comfortable to wear than denim, and it’s just as comfortable to live in a moody blue interior. Shades of denim can range from the deepest indigo to the palest, soft

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Interiors

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Interiors

grey-blue.” In an interior, dark blue works as a neutral and looks brilliant either covering walls or used as a grounding accent in the form of textiles and decorative objects. Try layering different shades of blue from darkest navy to washed-out cornflower . Natural colour schemes have a depth and softness to them, says Hans, and feel so unmanufactured and true in their shades that they’ll always bring a sense of integrity to your home and make it feel warm, inviting and relaxed. “I’m always collecting pieces of wood from the beach and the forest. I use some to light the fire, but the sculptural pieces usually end up on display and inspire me in my choice of colours,” he explains. “There’s nothing like the faded colours of smooth driftwood, washed vintage French linen, or antique grey painted furniture. I love everything about these soft, warm tones. “I like to mix vintage and new, textural wood playing off shiny porcelain, and if you feel the whole is too bland, introduce some greenery - a

single leaf or a pot plant can be the last extra touch needed.” If you have plain white walls, add layers of texture and introduce different shades of soft white to make a room more inviting. Layer textiles in different weaves or colours, hang a panel of vintage fabric as a work of art. “Even though I don’t like rainy days, I love it when dark, thundery rain clouds roll in because their deep tones are astoundingly beautiful, and every other hue sits so well against them, especially the bright green of spring leaves,” he says. “While you may be reluctant to repaint a room pitch black, I’m sure you would be pleasantly surprised if you did, as it’s such a chic, comfortable colour to live with. I wish I had more dark colours in my home. “A dark backdrop can have such an impact and create a sense of drama, yet at the same time give a very calm and cocooning feeling. It also makes any other colour you put with it stand out really beautifully.” In The Mood For Colour by Hans Blomquist. Ryland Peters & Small, £19.99.

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GET THE

LOOK

Add some blue notes to your home this summer season Indoor/outdoor rug £129 Cuckooland

Mose wine glass £4.50 Oliver Bonas Velvet cushion £29.95 Pignut

Shetland wool throw £70 Daisy Park

Distressed iron counter stool £159 Cuckooland

Perfect over the back of a sofa or armchair

fave! 25

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Ask Gracie...

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

What’s new, pussycat? Q

Wrap front jumpsuit £52 Littlewoods

What’s new for spring fashion - and what should I really be wearing? LT, Kingsbridge

From the catwalk to your closet, these are the five fashion trends I really do think you should be shopping for this season. 1.

Stripes: It doesn’t matter if they’re vertical or horizontal, try hitting refresh on this time-honoured trend with bold new hues.

Jumpsuits: It’s been bubbling under for a while but now the jumpsuit is a chic option for both day and night.

Off the shoulder: With just the right amount of skin on show, this trend will take you from summer soiree to beachside lunch.

Culottes: Culottes have transitioned to a wardrobe mainstay thanks to the flattering fit and their ability to work well for any occasion. Try them!

Pink open shoulder dress £55 Very 5.

Pink: From fuchsia to bubblegum and coral, pink is the hot colour of the season.

Striped camisole dress £29 Simply Be

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Gold sandals £55 Dune

Embellished flats £39 Accessorize

Gracie’s shopping list

On the flat I’m getting married next year and I’m looking for a pair of flat shoes that I can wear with my wedding dress as high heels aren’t practical for our venue. Do you have any ideas on what I should be looking for? ER, Penzance

There’s nothing like an amazing pair of shoes to complete your wedding look – and while heels are the most obvious choice, they aren’t the only option available. In fact, I’ve seen brides rocking flats, cowboy boots and even trainers on their big day. Here are a few options you might not have considered: Embellished sandals: Perfect for weddings on a lawn or patio, embellished sandals would look amazing with a long flowing gown or a short shift dress.

Ballet flats: Sparkly ballet flats are a great option for a taller bride who doesn’t want any extra height. Gold sandals: Gold makes a nice change from silver and it looks great with all shades of white. A low wedge: I find it is actually easier on your feet to wear a very slight heel rather than a flat.

Ballet flats £39 Topshop

Heads you win... I’ve been suffering from a dry, itchy and flaky scalp for the last few weeks and was wondering if you could suggest any products to help? GH, Crediton There are numerous conditions that can cause a dry, itchy and flaky scalp. Eczema, psoriasis, dehydration and even poor nutrition can all be to blame. However, it is possible to restore your scalp’s health with the help of these targeted products. Try a mask: Philip Kingsley’s exfoliating mask is perfect for those with sensitive skin. The stimulating ingredients encourage blood circulation to improve your hair’s texture and vitality, while a potent blend of vitamins and minerals soothe and calm irritation.

restore moisture. The signature ingredient bee propolis has antiseptic properties to soothe scalp conditions. Flake out: Perfect for flaky, itchy scalps, Sachajuan scalp shampoo is formulated with antifungal Piroctone Olamine and Climbazole to eliminate dandruff, while a blend of rosemary oil, menthol and ginger extract helps soothe irritation.

Developed for acneprone skin, Sonya Dakar’s clarifying wash is an ultra-gentle, oil-controlling formula for those susceptible to blemishes and breakouts. It helps to neutralise bad bacteria with silver ions, probiotics and non-drying sebum regulators.

Sachajuan scalp shampoo £18 www.cultbeauty.co.uk

The best shampoo: Leonor Greyl has a gentle anti-dandruff shampoo that uses natural ingredients to relieve scalp irritation and prevent dandruff. When gently massaged into the follicles, it produces a delicate lather to

Philip Kingsley exfoliating scalp mask £17 www.lookfantastic.com

After a day at the beach or out in the sunshine, dust off flaky skin and dead skin cells with this exfoliating scrub, leaving skin feeling fresh and restored after contact with the elements. Sonya Dakar silver clarifying wash £50 www.cultbeauty.co.uk

Bold hues: Wedding flats can be just as pretty and powerful as heels, especially if you go for bright pops of colour.

Nathalie Bond Organics body scrub £21 www.nathaliebond.com

Cleo longline bra £34 Figleaves Leonor Greyl gentle anti-dandruff shampoo £29 www.netaporter.com

In a vintage-inspired style, this longline bra is just so pretty for springtime. It offers lots of support too and is really comfortable.

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

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Waterfall hem tunic top £22 Apricot

Cropped trousers £45 Monsoon

fave!

Palm print dress £59 Monsoon

Button up shirt £12 George at ASDA

Effortlessly chic and at a bargain price, too

Lovely linen

eep cool and comfortable this summer in linen. A wardrobe essential, particularly in warmer climates, linen is lightweight and low-maintenance making it an ideal fabric for all your summer vacations. From linen trousers like these cropped ones from Monsoon to pretty summer dresses like this block colour shift from East, let linen be your go-to fabric for your summer wardrobe.

Cuffed shorts £29.95 White Stuff

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Fashion

Oversized top £75 East

Shift dress £85 East

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A spring in your step!

Shoulder bag £55 White Stuff

Look cool for springtime at Drake Circus, Plymouth he sun is making a break for it but there’s still a nip in the air - so now is the time to get smart with some transitional new season shopping. Here’s our choice of the best casual buys for springtime to be found at Drake Circus shopping centre in Plymouth, where you will find more than 70 top-brand stores under one roof, plus parking after 4pm is just £4. What are you waiting for?!

FEET FIRST

It’s time to ditch the tights and socks in favour of more summer footwear. Cath Kidston’s colourful pumps featuring cutesy lobsters and starfish are designed for style and comfort with a seaside twist. They are also versatile, looking good with skirts or cropped trousers. These gold backless loafers from New Look are also totally on-trend, the perfect preppy-with-a-twist look for work - or just for fun.

DEFINITELY DENIM

GET SHIRTY

A crisp buttoned shirt? Every wardrobe should have several. Next and Marks & Spencer are famed for their classic tailored shirts. But White Stuff also have some great casual versions in store this season, we love this short-sleeved number in a warm and flattering shade of burnt ochre - the perfect match for your favourite denim jeans or skirt. If you are going for a laid-back look, try Monsoon for this lovely linen shirt, cool and comfortable for when (if !) the weather turns properly hot.

[[ Question: what do you get if you combine two huge seasonal trends in one item? A denim shirt dress, that’s what!

If there’s one thing a girl needs for spring, it’s a new denim skirt. They go with everything and can go pretty much anywhere, too. This patchwork version from Top Shop has a boho edge to update your look. Also - what do you get if you combine two huge seasonal trends in one item? A denim shirt dress, that’s what! This really should be your investment buy for 2017. We like this Oasis dress for its relaxed style. Pair it with a t-shirt underneath on colder days, along with some boots - or sandals if it’s turning sunny.

Slim fit trousers £35 River Island

IN THE BAG

Bag yourself a new handbag to instantly perk up your spring look. There are some great options to choose from now, so have a look at Cath Kidston, Marks & Spencer or Primark. We also like this metallic backpack from New Look, this clutch bag from Marks & Spencer and this lovely suede shoulder bag from White Stuff.

BE BRIGHT

Bin the beige - spring is a great time to go bright! A great pair of colourful trousers will take you far this season. Try these pink pants from River Island - Marks & Spencer and Primark also have great ranges.

SUNNY DAYS

Everyone needs a hot pair of new sunglasses - it’s THE essential spring/summer accessory. New Look and Superdry have fab selections right now but we also really like this retro catseye pair from Next, a bargain at just £12.

Josephine linen shirt £45 Monsoon

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Shop

Metallic pink bag £19.99 New Look

Violetta jersey shirt £29.99 White Stuff

Denim shirt dress £55 Oasis

Gold slip-on loafers £27.99 New Look

Cat's eye sunglasses £12 Next

Lobster loafers £24 Cath Kidston

Patchwork denim mini £35 Topshop

Collection bag £8 Marks & Spencer

All items available at Drake Circus shopping centre, Plymouth, @drakecircusplym www.drakecircus.com 31

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Wellbeing

the boost

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, every day

Facing up to the facts... Are you suffering from malnutrition? If your answer is no, your face could be telling a different story. It might be time to inject your diet with certain food groups to supplement low levels. According to nutritionists, most vitamin deficiencies will affect your face first, with crow’s feet pointing to Vitamin B2 deficiency, cracked lips hinting at a lack of B6, dry skin a sign of low Vitamin A and thinning hair a result of low Vitamin C. What will your mirror tell you?

Hearty walk

March along the moor tomorrow with local guides, Colin and Heather Ridgers, for a Dartmoor Day Out. The six mile walk will raise £1 per person for the British Heart Foundation. Traverse the Meavy Valley across open moors to reach Princetown. Here you will enjoy a restorative bite to eat before putting your best foot forward back to your car. Meet in the car park on the B3212 road from Yelverton to Princetown, 10am Sunday May 21, tickets £7.40 (adults), £3.75 (children), for details visit www.scruffnken.co.uk

CUTTING CARBS? If you’ve cut out all the carbs in pursuit of that perfect summer body, think again. Despite popular belief, dieticians have listed five diet-friendly carbohydrates that are released slowly into the bloodstream to provide us with lasting, sustainable energy. So it’s time to stop fearing the humble potato, healthy whole grains, super sweet bananas, melons and grapes, fibre-rich legumes and protein packed corn and peas. You’re welcome. 32

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Love Cornish seaweed Haven’t you heard? Seaweed is this summer’s health food trend and there are plenty of reasons why we should all be à la mode in 2017. Not only is this sustainable superfood great for digestive health but it is high in nutrients, low in calories and contains heavy-duty detox properties. It may even help to regulate hormones and can act as an all-round tonic if you’re feeling under the weather. Find your daily dose of sea greens at The Cornish Seaweed Company, who stock a range of products from seaweed bath bags to organic sea salad. www.cornishseaweed.co.uk

Move on up Moderate exercise several times a week is the best way to keep the mind sharp if you’re over 50, say health experts. As well as the obvious physical benefits, research suggests that thinking and memory skills are sharper among those who enjoy squeezing a gentle jog or cycle into our weekly routines. This positive correlation is also true for over 50s who are newly taking up exercise in later life, so it’s never too late to get the blood pumping and your brain boosting.

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

@WMNWest or email westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk 33

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Wellbeing

Looking for love later on? Dating in later life can be so rewarding, says our expert

I lost my husband five years ago after a long and happy marriage. I now feel just about ready to think about finding companionship once more. My daughter-in-law says I should try internet dating but that seems a scary prospect! I’m just not sure where to start when it comes to meeting someone, or even if I should. CS, Truro

Transformational coach Tiffany Macedo-Dine says: Getting back into dating can be scary, but it can be exhilarating and life changing too. Honestly, whether you are 35 or 85, it’s never too late to find love again. Here are the six best reasons why you definitely should date in later life:

1 Experience of life At this stage in life, you have experience on your side. You know your faults as well as your assets and have the advantage of being able to look back and see what times in your life have been the most fulfilling and satisfying. This valuable insight will help you identify what qualities you are looking for in a future companion.

2 Emotional maturity With experience comes emotional maturity. This isn’t about being old, staid and boring. You can still feel very young at heart, well into later life,

but you’ll also have developed patience and the ability to adapt, which are essential for healthy relationships. You’re a grown-up, able to learn from experience and you won’t focus on small, insignificant things.

enable new relationships to grow more organically and authentically from the outset.

5 Evolving times

The world has never been so readily at your fingertips than it is now. With the advent of in3 Enjoyment ternet dating you’ll have more opportunities to Let’s face it, we all want to experience joy in meet like-minded people than ever before. Social our lives and dating can bring you just that. media and online dating has made the world a Compliments and flattery very small place indeed and this that often come from meeting is a great advantage in the quest someone new, help cement that of searching for a companion. inner confidence and can make Of course, you should take ‘Humans are you feel valued and attractive. care to guide yourself wisely meant to be with Access to these feelings can give through any online process other humans: so much energy and vitality but it can be a great vehicle for dating works wonders for our connecting with new people. when we are overall wellbeing.

4 Economic stability

[[ together we enjoy life, learn new skills and have new experiences’

It is often the case that, with age, comes financial stability. This can be really useful when entering the dating scene again. Stability doesn’t mean there are endless pots of cash in the bank - but it means you have a secure base, whatever size and shape it may be. This safety net helps new relationships to start on a more even footing. There will be less pressure over who is the main bread-winner, for example, and this can

6 Engagement with others

Humans are meant to be with other humans and when we are together we enjoy life, we learn new skills and we have new experiences. We all need social and relationship interaction to give us that sense of purpose and belonging. Whatever your time of life, you should never stop searching for that close connection with that special someone. Devon-based transformational coach Tiffany Macedo-Dine www.tiffanymacedo-dine.co.uk

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Food

SMALL BITES

Our pick of what’s on in the Westcountry food world right now

Sail into summer Devon-based Lyme Bay Winery has picnics, parties and festivals covered this summer with the launch of its rebranded Jack Ratt cider range, plus new three litre bag-in-box. Drawing inspiration from the rugged Jurassic coastline of Lyme Bay, this cider takes its name from notorious 19th century smuggler, Jack Rattenbury, who hid his contraband in caves and sunken barrels off the coast. The Jack Ratt bag-inbox range includes a traditional and fruity Scrumpy (£11.49) and a full-bodied strong Vintage Dry (£11.99). www.lymebaywinery.co.uk

Get grilling Philleigh Way Cookery School in Truro have launched a new series of barbecue courses for summer. Covering Seafood Essentials, American Classics and BBQ Classics, there really is a course for everyone from complete beginners to seasoned grillers. Those looking to expand their barbecuing ability from the fare of sausages and burgers can take part in the Weber Essentials course, which provides an introduction to using a Weber barbecue. Participants will be taught everything from lighting the barbecue to mastering Weber’s “lid-on” technique. Wednesday May 24 and Friday September 8, £99. www.philleighway.co.uk

Healthy local snacks Plymouth-based crisp makers, Burts Chips, have increased their Better For You range with the launch of a lighter snack, Quinoa Crinkles. With fewer than 90 calories per packet, Quinoa Crinkles are a healthy alternative and come in two delicious flavours: Sweet Pepper and Chorizo and West Country Cream Cheese. Burts Chips use ingredients with strong local provenance to reflect their Devonshire heritage, such as high-quality chorizo from Devon’s Good Game Company. www.burtschips.com

Birthday celebrations for Roly’s Fudge Established in Torquay back in 1987, Roly’s Fudge is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The fudge-making business now has 35 shops, making handmade traditional fudge in full view of customers every day. The Roly’s Fudge 30th anniversary kicks off with a new limited edition gold wrapping paper for gift wrapped boxes. There are also new celebratory flavours,such as Florentine Fudge which is made with real nuts and juicy dried fruits and Peaches & Cream made with real clotted cream Mmmm! www. rolysfudge.co.uk

Got some foodie news? Let us know on westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk 35

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FEAR OF THE

DENTIST? Are you worried about your smile? evitalise Dental Centre and Same Day Teeth have been developed for people who have a genuine fear or anxiety that prevents them from going to the dentist. Get the same day smile you want with this revolutionary technique that means we can provide a new arch of comfortable, natural-looking teeth â&#x20AC;&#x201C; fixed in place using dental implants â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in just one day, without your anxiety getting in the way. Sedation is administered by Dr Simon Martin or Implantologist, with patient safety and comfort our top priority. Relax and let the team take care of everything.

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Meet the highly experienced experts, Martin Docking, GDC No: 115044 and Simon Martin, GDC No: 67146

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I was the woman who kept in the background, hiding myself away from people. I was the one who talked to others with one hand across my lower face, I always felt embarrassed eating out so would make excuses and not go. I became introverted with very little confidence in myself. The Same Day Teeth team have put sunshine into my everyday life. I was always afraid of the dentist because of a few horrendous treatments in my earlier days. This was so different. They are not only completely professional, but gentle, kind and most importantly honest, explaining each treatment before the event. I cannot thank them enough, they have changed my life.

Tel: 01872 555915 www.revitalisedentalcentre.co.uk Revitalise Dental Centre, Hurlingburrow Farm, St.Agnes, Cornwall TR5 0PG Martin Docking, GDC No: 115044. Simon Martin, GDC No: 67146 Ads_May 20.indd 3

15/05/2017 08:53:22

Cook

mitch tonks:

Hake with Green Sauce Mitch says: I have tried several versions of this dish and cooked it many times. The green sauce comes from the amount of parsley used in the dish. It’s the classic Catalonian mix of garlic and parsley that just simply works together and makes this dish so enjoyable. The clams add a wonderful saltiness - you can just taste the sea.

Serves: 4

You will need:

Method:

4 fillets hake weighing about 180g each Flour for dusting 100ml olive oil 2 garlic cloves 2 good handfuls finely chopped parsley 2 potatoes peeled and very thinly sliced Splash dry white wine 1 birds eye chilli 1 bay leaf 200g fresh clams or mussels Salt and pepper

Give the fish a good dusting of flour and season well. Pour the olive oil into a casserole dish and when it’s hot add the garlic and fry for a minute then remove. By doing this you will give oil a real garlicky flavour which is a good base to start from. When the garlic is cooled, crush or pound it in a pestle and mortar and mix it with the parsley. It is important that the parsley is as fine as you can get it. Brown the fish on both sides in the oil and remove from the pan and set aside then brown the potato slices. Add a splash of wine and then sit the fish on top of the potatoes, add the parsley and garlic and just enough

water to cover the potatoes. Add the chilli, bay leaf and clams, cover and cook gently for 7-8 minutes until the clams open. The fish should be moist and cooked by this time and the thin slices of potato all breaking up as you serve the fish from the pan. 3.

This dish needs pepper to season but there should be plenty of salt from the clams. The sauce should be a vibrant green from the parsley.

FISH by Mitch Tonks, Pavilion, photography Chris Terry. Eat out at Mitch’s Seahorse and Rockfish restaurants: www.mitchtonks.co.uk 38

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Drink

Happy h ur with drinks expert April Marks

April says: It seems like only yesterday I felt I was on a one-woman crusade to get restaurants to serve Westcountry or English wines - although this was in fact 16 years a g o ! How things have changed in that time. No longer am I driving this category, my customers are actively seeking out local wines. There is an appetite in the South West to support local producers but I suspect the real demand for English wine derives from the recognition of the quality these wines are now achieving.

There are currently around 700 vineyards in the UK producing over five million bottles of wine every year, many of which are world class wines. Some receive internationally recognised awards and compete against wellknown regions such as Champagne in France. England’s largest wine producer is Chapel Down in Kent who recently released the most expensive wine in the UK. The £99.99 Kit’s Coty Coeur de Cuvée 2013 sparkling wine is produced using the “Champagne method” from Chardonnay grapes grown on what they claim to be the

There are 700 UK

vineyards, producing five million bottles

warmest vineyard slopes in the country. Here, limestone-rich chalk soils provide the perfect conditions for intensely-flavoured wine. If the whopping price tag doesn’t put you off, I suggest you seek out some fairly soon as only 1,600 bottles were made. Another idea would be to try more local alternatives from vineyards such as Sharpham in Devon and Camel Valley in Cornwall (see my product of the week, below). April Marks is co-founder of Regency Wines Ltd Exeter @regencywinesuk

Product of the week

Celebrate English Wine Week Every year across the country events are held to celebrate English wines. This year English Wine Week starts on May 27 running until June 4. To see the events taking place near you, look up www.englishwineproducers.co.uk

Sharpham Sparkling Reserve NV This lovely south Devon fizz is so good, The International Wine Challenge (IWSC) awarded it a silver medal. Sharpham use Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay grapes, processing the wine in the traditional method which is the same way Champagne is made. For 24 months the wine remains in contact with the yeast deposits (known as lees) which form after the wine has been fermented. This gives the wine a fabulous brioche aroma. The palate is fresh with soft bubbles and a long lemon almond finish. Available from Sharpham Vineyard for £31.95 online or £29.95 from the cellar door. 39

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Drink Beer of the week I mentioned the progress of Bude Brewery last week and at the weekend got to try their very impressive Pendeen American Pale Ale. It wasn’t quite clear, but the flavours were fantastic – brash, bold, bitter American hops against a bready malt background. The hops are the stars and the bitterness stays through a long, satisfying finish.

Darren Norbury

talks beer A PIZZA CORNWALL IN LONDON Visiting the London Pizza Festival, at Borough Market, Southwark, next Sunday (May 28)? You’ll be glad to know, then, that the huge variety of Italian-inspired treats can be washed down with Skinner’s beer, from Cornwall. I reckon Lushingtons would go well with a margherita…

South West champions

Congratulations to Exmoor Ales, of Wiveliscombe, and Dawkins Ales, of Timsbury, Bath, who took the top cask and smallpack (bottled) beer awards respectively at the Society of Independent Brewers’ South West competition, held at Newton Abbot. The winning beers were Ultra, a strong IPA, and perennial dark favourite Exmoor Beast.

ood things can come in small packTaphouse and Bottle Shop, Tucker’s Maltings, ages, they say, and while this phrase Newton Abbot; Beer Cellar, Exeter; Goldy’s Ale generally fails as a chat-up line, it and Cider Bar, Tiverton; the Woodyard Brewpub, could well be the way forward for Wellington; Just Ales, Wells; and the wonderfully what many still describe as our “benamed Pursuit of Hoppiness, Bridport. leaguered” pub industry. Now I hear that Stratton-based Ian O’Hare In 2005, a man called Martyn Hillier – unknown has plans to open Cornwall’s second micropub, at the time but hovering close to sainthood now the Barrel at Bude Alehouse. Subject to planin the British hospitality industry – opened Britning consent, he hopes to have the business up ain’s first micropub, The Butchand running on June 14, opening er’s Arms, in a former butcher’s Wednesday to Saturday, and posshop in Herne, Kent. sibly on Sunday if there’s beer Seven years later, and with left. There will also be Cornish You may know more venues opened nationgin, cider and wine available. I have a particuwide, he co-founded the MicroIan tells me: “We are very keen lar soft spot for pub Association, which gives us to make this something that suptoday’s definition of one of these ports the local community and Cornwall’s first hostelries: “A small freehouse something that locals and visitors micropub, the which listens to its customers, alike can feel part of. mainly serves cask ales, pro“Once opened, we intend to Pilchard Press motes conversation, shuns all ensure that the character and Alehouse, on the forms of electronic entertainwhat we serve is determined by Wharf in St Ives ment and dabbles in traditional our customers and local indepub snacks.” pendent suppliers. Anyone who follows me on “Although there are other pubs social media – and really, if not, in the town, we will be different, why not? – will know that I have a particular soft serving only local ales, straight from the cask, spot for Cornwall’s first micropub, the Pilchard and open for limited hours to ensure the beer is Press Alehouse, on the Wharf in St Ives. Here, always served at its best.” There are plans for live owner Nick Simpson dispenses between six and music, too, drawn from “the pool of great talent nine cask ales a week, often local brews but not we have here in Bude”. the “usual suspects” one so often sees on bars, I wish Ian the best of luck with this venture in a room where, if 25 people are present, there’s and look forward to trying a brew or two there. what amounts to a crush. Yes, we still need to worry about pub closures, It’s a great experience, combining good beer but we can also be very excited about the microwith a compelling social atmosphere and atpub movement. tracting a diverse age range. Other members of Darren Norbury is editor of beertoday.co.uk the association in the South West include: The @beertoday

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culture vulture Our pick of the most interesting and exciting things to see and do right now in the South West A Cornish gem The Fal River Festival was established in 2006 and embraces the places, people, history, culture and industry connected to this beautiful Cornish river. All the action takes place in Falmouth, Truro and around the Roseland Peninsula, where thousands of people flock to the area to take part in a range of events. You can pick up tips from celebrity chefs demonstrating seafood recipes, watch a street theatre performance, listen to a traditional male voice choir or dance the night away to Celtic music. Friday May 26 – Sunday June 4. www.falriver.co.uk

A passion for Pasha?

Dance the day away Into house and techno music? Hijacked is a one-day music festival set in the beautiful location of the Double Locks pub with its large garden on Exeter’s canal bank. This fun festival has been going for a few years now and this year’s line-up includes Bicep, Denis Sulta and Jackmaster - to name but a few. Time to dance the day away (from 1pm-11pm) in the sunshine folks - but hurry - the tickets are selling out fast. Thursday May 25, tickets from £25. www.hijackedfestival.com

Pasha Kovalev from Strictly Come Dancing and his fantastic dancers are back touring the UK with their brand new show. You can expect all your favourite dances, stunning costumes and great music. Pasha won Strictly Come Dancing with Caroline Flack in 2014 and has scored more 10’s than any other professional dancer since the series began. Sunday May 28, Exeter Corn Exchange, £24 per person. www.exetercornexchange.co.uk

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Natural beauty Lola Lui from north Devon runs a nationally-acclaimed skin care company based on a cattle farm. Fran McElhone finds out more about Lola’s Apothecary ola Lui is in a flurry of rose petals and butter milk, busy making an extra batch of her Queen of Roses bath milk. Yet the 28-year-old is the essence of calm. Lola runs Lola’s Apothecary with her friend Dominic Phillips from his parents farm near Chulmleigh. Each one of Lola’s beauty products, from bath oils and body soufflés to her candles and herbal teas, is 100% natural and handmade at the farm, which is also home to a herd of rare breed Red Ruby cattle. Everything is made in small batches, to keep it as fresh as possible, hence the rush this morning. “I feel passionate about being a small part in encouraging people to give themselves much needed nourishment,” she says. “Not everyone can live like a celebrity, doing an hour of yoga every morning and eating fine foods all the time,” she explains. “People often share with me their personal stories about how my products have helped them in personal challenges in ways you wouldn’t expect, such as in

their emotional healing. This is very humbling.” Lola started making her own natural products to look after her own sensitive skin. Soon after she graduated with a degree in Fine Art from Central Saint Martins in London, she made some of her bath milk as a gift for a friend. Little did she know how this thoughtful act would be the

'I feel like I've come home. I don't miss the city, I absolutely love Devon' seed for her future venture. “I went to a friend’s birthday party and gave her a bottle of my Queen of Roses bath milk and a bunch of flowers. “We were in this bar, and everyone just gath-

ered round, and then people started contacting me saying, ‘you know that thing you made your friend, can you make more?’ “I’m a geek and love cooking so I think it all stems from that,” Lola explains. “I started selling products in London at Old Spitalfields Market and had the time of my life. I’d dress up – I had a thing for tutus! “But it was just a bit of fun to make me some extra pocket money really." All that changed in the summer of 2013 when Lola was contacted by a journalist from French Vogue. “She had seen me at the market and asked me to send her some samples,” Lola continues. “A month later my products were featured in French Vogue and then British Vogue, too. Suddenly my little goodies were in magazines and I started getting stockist enquiries. I never dreamed this would happen.” A couple of months after appearing in Vogue, Lola and Dominic moved down to the farm. “We’re both entrepreneurial and adventurous, he had the van and I just jumped in! I feel like

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I’ve come home. I absolutely love Devon. I don’t miss the city at all. Lola's Queen of Roses bath milk has since been featured in Harper's Bazaar magazine and won the Natural Heath International Beauty Awards best bath treat award last year. It sells at £70 for 300ml. The products are free of parabens, sulphates, mineral oils and synthetic fragrance, Lola explains. Living in the South West has helped rather than hindered her business, she explains. Products are sold on her own website and several others, including Not On The High Street and also stocked in independent stores across the country. “When I first created this brand I wanted to bring the glamour of conventional cosmetics into the realm of natural beauty,” she continues. “My vision is to create products that marry effective natural skin care with fine fragrances. I love perfume and I set myself a challenge to create natural products that feel and smell wonderful. "I’m constantly reformulating - I’ve just reformulated the body oil, yet again!” Lola is also in the process of creating a new facial skin care range and is hoping to host creative workshops soon. She has more than 7,000 followers on the Instagram social media site and close to a thousand on Twitter, many of whom are keen to share with Lola how happy her goodies have made them. “I like to respond to every single comment we receive on social media,” she says. “It takes a lot of time, sometimes hours, and maybe there will come a day when I won’t be able to. But I love that there is a community of people that have been brought together.” For the last year or so, Lola and Dominic have been making herbal teas and chocolates too. “Dominic and I drink herbal tea all the time, and this was another aspect of our interests. So I set myself the challenge of creating something that tastes good and looks happy. I’ve always wanted to create chocolate inspired by our fragrances, because while we’re a wellness and beauty brand, we’re also about pleasure. People were always saying our orange patisserie oil smelt good enough to eat!” So Lola and Dominic devised an Orange Patisserie chocolate bar (£12 for a 50g bar) In Lola’s two tea blends, called Whirlwinds & Rainbows and Clementine Calamity (from £12 for 20 teabags) she uses traditional and therapeutic herbs and adaptogens. “Adaptogens are a very special part of a plant’s chemicals that have the ability to help promote mental clarity and boost your immunity,” she tells me. “These adaptogens exist in plants that live in harsh terrain, such as Rhodiola, also known as Golden Arctic Root, which you generally only find in Scandinavia or Siberia. "It’s just one of those wonderful things. I take a holistic view of wellbeing so the tea and chocolate is a continuation of the philosophy behind my beauty products.” Visit www.lolasapothecary.com

Enjoy

'A month later my products were featured in French

Vogue and British Vogue'

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Haytor, Dartmoor

My Secret Westcountry Mike Downs Mike Downs (centre) runs The Volunteer Inn in Ottery St Mary, east Devon, with his wife, Jacqui. They have three children, Haydon, Connor and Chantelle, one grandchild,Lacey - not forgetting their much-adored pub dog, Scrumpy.

The Anchor Inn at Cockwood

My favourite: Walk:

I have a favourite walk around the beautiful manor house of Cadhay in Ottery St Mary and walking across Cadhay Farm where I grew up. It’s peaceful and quiet, and Scrumpy has all the freedom he needs to run around with no distractions.

Beach: Out of choice this would be in the Caribbean! But closer to home in the Westcountry my favourite beach is Exmouth. It’s the sandiest beach around, and is dog friendly in places all year round, so it is another great location for Scrumpy to have fun. Event: This has to be any Exeter Chiefs game. I go to home games at Sandy Park regularly but also away games when I can. The Chiefs are my local side, they’re in the Premiership and their games always have a great atmosphere. Weekend: My wife Jacqui and I like to drive to the Rock Inn at Haytor on Dartmoor. It’s close enough to get back to our pub if we’re needed but it is also the ideal spot to get away from it all. The walking around Haytor is spectacular. Jail Ale

Place to eat: In Ottery St Mary, you’ll find me at the Star of India. They serve really great food

Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park

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People

The beach at Exmouth

PINNACLE PHOTO AGENCY

and it’s such a friendly service. Further afield we love to go to The Anchor Inn at Cockwood near Dawlish during the winter months for seafood and the outlook over the harbour.

View: The Otter Valley from Cadhay – the view

local ciders, especially Thatchers or Ventons Devon Cyder from Cullompton. From the many wonderful real ales available I would pick out Otter Amber from Otter Brewery and Jail Ale from Dartmoor Brewery.

takes in East Hill and Ottery St Mary. It’s a view I’ve loved all my life.

Special treat: Both my lads have played rugby

Icon:

for Sidmouth, so my special treat would be to watch both of them play – or even to join in myself ! Hayden’s on a rugby tour in New Zealand at the moment so perhaps when he gets back.

Being a fan of real ale, I have a great respect for Patrick McCaig of Otter Brewery, based at Luppitt in east Devon. It’s such a successful, creative business and Patrick’s kept it independent and with the same family ethos.

Favourite food: You can’t beat local mussels

Drink:

and for me there’s only one way to serve them, with wine, garlic and cream.

I’m spoilt for choice! I enjoy a pint of

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My life

CHRIS MCGUIRE

Fully charged Chris McGuire and son Sam run out of battery life... n the past, it might have been can take a good 10% from its stores. As a result, “Mama” or “Dada” or even, perI’ve become a little obsessive about knowing all haps, “Vroom, vroom” (indicating the places in any area I frequent that I can plug a car). I’m talking first words here, my device in, should the need arise. a topic that’s been at the forefront If you see me, out and about in a café or pub, of my mind of late – as my son, Sam, begins to looking at your ankles, I don’t have a peculiar bridge the gulf between sounds and sentences. fetish, I’m inspecting the skirting boards for Yet I’ve got a horrible feeling the next generasockets. You’ll find that I’m not alone in this action of babies will be grappling tivity. I often see a whole gaggle with first phrases of a different – what’s the collective noun manner completely. Sentences like for millennials? A downThere I lay on “WhatsDaWifiCode?” and “Wahload, perhaps? – of the floor (the NoSignal!” will be etched into My phone users clustering charging lead is First… books across the nation, as around a table where our reliance upon technology ina totally unsuspecttoo short for me creases. ing customer has to stand) making This week, I realised just how unknowingly bagged dependent on my smartphone I am the best charging my call, rocking – when the battery ran at out at expoint. Sam’s pram with actly the wrong moment… This week, I my foot First World Problems, that’s found myself what they call them. The little in a totally new issues we millennials find oure nv i r o n m e n t , selves moaning about every day. where I have Yes, I’m aware that I’m a little too old to be a milno vital socket knowledge, lennial (I’m 38) – age is one of the few problems with a rapidly depleting that nobody has created an app to solve (yet). phone. Combine that with And yes I am, I admit, a little addicted to using an important work call and my smartphone. I’m equally aware that it’s not you have the recipe for disa good thing. Far from it. I sometimes dream of aster. turning it off and going completely off grid – a So what happened? phrase that I think makes me sound like a secret After losing the connecagent, James Bond with a pram… The thing is, I tion several times, I evenneed my phone for work. People expect to be able tually found a charging to get hold of me all the time at any time – litersocket in the corner of a ally. It may seem like the phone unlocks access kids’ soft play centre. There to the entire world. But some days it feels like a I lay, on the floor (the lead prison guard. is too short for me to stand) My personal phone is a little elderly. It’s at making my call while rocking least three, which in phone years is practically Sam’s pram with my foot. If this prehistoric. I won’t say the brand but be assured ridiculous situation can be considI’m getting more than my five-a-day’s use out of ered progress, well they can keep it! it. The main way my gadget’s age shows is in its PS: Sam’s first words have just come battery life. Just thinking about making a call through: “Dada”. I saw it as a minor

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victory until his mum pointed out he was probably just a fan of the revolutionary Dada-ism art movement. The child’s a genius, I swear. Chris McGuire is a writer and new dad. If you catch him looking at your ankles, there’s probably a plug socket nearby @McGuireski

NEXT WEEK: Phil Goodwin on life, love and fatherhood in the Westcountry 46

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