West September 20, 2015

20.09.15

INSIDE: + DAMIEN HIRST

Home chic home ‘How I got style on a shoestring’

48

New season solutions

DON’T MISS: + TV’s

PLUS:

+ WORKOUTS

CORNISH STAR

YOU’LL LOVE

Cover_Sept20.indd 1

15/09/2015 17:13:03

EXQUISITE • QUINTESSENTIAL • ENGLISH COUNTRY HOUSE

W I N A £10,00 0 WEDDING

AT D E VO N ’ S F I N E S T W E D D I N G V ENUE *

TEXT ‘DEER’ TO 66777 FO R I N FO R M AT I O N P LU S 1 0 R U N N E R U P P R I Z E S O F £ 5 0 0 TOWA R D S YO U R WEDDING Text is free but you may be charged a standard charge by your network operator

*Terms and conditions apply, for full details visit www.deerparkcountryhotel.co.uk

Deer Park Country House Hotel, Weston, Honiton, Devon EX14 3PG – www.deerparkcountryhotel.co.uk Ad pages.indd 4 DPH_WIN_A_Wedding_236x286.indd 1

16/09/2015 14:46:3909:58 15/09/2015

‘They are in many ways like us as a nation; small, a little oddly shaped and unpromising-looking, but actually full of wonder and beauty’

22

MOODY HUES New looks for autumn rooms

Tim Maddams on why he loves cooking with British pears, p40

11 41

SCENT OF A WOMAN The celebrity perfume business

ALL HAIL THE ALE Our expert gives beer advice

[contents[ Inside this week...

6

THE WISHLIST This week’s pick of lovely things to buy

8

LIFTING UP BABY Our new mum columnist works out

9

JUST BETWEEN US...

Sh! We have the latest gossip!

12

RISING STAR Meet Poldark actor Tristan Sturrock

16

30

IN THE PINK This season’s chicest shade

STYLE COUNCIL Win interior design books from Dorset

22

AUTUMN’S MOODY HUES Striking colours for new look interiors

26

AND SO TO BEDS...

40

BEARING FRUIT Pear recipes for the harvest

Anne Swithinbank’s veg plot advice

30

IN THE PINK This season’s chicest shade

35

YOUR WEEK AHEAD Cassandra Nye looks into the stars

36

BOOST YOUR WELLBEING Great ways to feel your best this week

39

SUPER SMOOTHIES Ally Mac gets creative in the kitchen

42

A WEEKEND AWAY Explore the best of beautiful Bude

46

BACK TO SCHOOL Phil Goodwin’s holiday is over, for sure

16

STYLE COUNCIL

Win interior design books

3

Contents_Sept20.indd 3

15/09/2015 17:18:28

38

LOVING LIFE

[

[

Why fitness can be fun

[ welcome [

13.09.15

A sense of freedom Riding on the beach in Cornwall

Talk about a fruitful harvest...

INSIDE:

+ HILARY

MANTEL

This magazine is so crammed with good things for autumn it’s practically groaning at the seams.

The challenge has been to fit it all in but I hope you’ll agree we’ve done a pretty good job. First up, we’ve got an interview with a rising star of the Cornish acting scene Tristan Sturrock. Tristan’s a familiar face to the many of us who have seen him in Kneehigh Theatre’s fabulous performances, but he is really breaking through on a national level too now, with appearances in TV’s Jamaica Inn, Doc Martin and - of course - Poldark under his belt.

Find out what’s next for him on page 12 today.

Another inspirational character from the other

WIN:

PLUS: + AUTUMN

FASHION

+ £50 ART

PRINT

Tweet

[

of the week @mefinx @swcoastpath @WMNWest Riding on the beach? Not dressed like that, you don’t.

Ed’s note: Oh but they did! That’s Cornwall for you!

end of our lovely region is Sarah Thompson from west Dorset. Like so many young local people these days, Sarah was struggling to buy a house in her home town of Bridport. Smartly, she took on a tired 1950s ex-council house and has totally transformed it. This not only gave her a lovely and affordable home, but led to her writing a coffee table book all about similar design projects, called Style Council. You can read all about Sarah and win copies of her gorgeous book on page 16.

Finally, we’ve got great advice on the new season’s fashion, starting on page 30. Clue: this year, it definitely doesn’t have to be black - hooray!

[

We’ve got an interview with a rising star of the Cornish acting scene

Becky Sheaves, Editor

COVER IMAGE: Alun Callender

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

MEET THE TEAM Becky Sheaves, Editor

Sarah Pitt

Kathryn Clarke-McLeod

Catherine Barnes

Phil Goodwin

4

Eds_letter_1thing.indd 4

16/09/2015 12:23:16

If you do one thing this week...

September marks the end of the lobster season and The Beach Hut at Watergate Bay, Newquay, is sending it off with a bang. Head to the beach for an all-lobster dinner date and your chance to work your way through a whole lobster. There will be lobster everywhere, (except dessert!).

To drink there are late summer cocktails, white wine and lobster’s favourite tipple, champagne. The feast starts at 7pm on Friday September 25 and costs £50, or £65 including wine flight. Look out too for further Fish Supper Fridays this autumn, including Fish Pie Night (£25) on October 9. See www.watergatebay.co.uk

5

Eds_letter_1thing.indd 5

15/09/2015 14:20:22

Raindrop stacking ring, gold vermeil set with blue topaz £255 www.damsonjewellery. co.uk

TWEET! Orla Kiely wooden bird house £29.95

the

wishlist

www.annabeljames. co.uk

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

Carry the sunny colours of Provence around with you with the Grasse shopping bag from funky Parisian brand Atelier LZC £35 www.

STREET STYLE STAR

jasmineway.co.uk

Sarah Worth

Sarah says: “I love Karen Millen.

My favourite style icon is Cheryl Cole, I am always looking to see what she is wearing in magazines.

She dresses so well and looks lovely in both smart and in casual clothes.”

Black top: Karen Millen £50 Bright pink skirt: River Island £30 Shoes: River Island £40 Handbag: River Island £50

SPOTTED BY: ABBIE BRAY AND CONNIE CHAMPAIN

Sarah, 49, is from Exeter and works as a receptionist.

6

Wishlist_Sept20.indd 6

15/09/2015 11:50:25

Wishlist

fave!

Quack Ducks doormat £39.99 www.modern-rugs. co.uk

Imagine Adventures are beckoning in this tipi £110.68 www. babyssimo.de

Store we adore Illustrated Living, Truro

Chris and Rosie Houghton are champions of original design from Britain and abroad. Their shop is full of colourful and inspired designs, reproduced on lampshades, cards, tea caddies, lampshades and cushions. Look out for leaf prints from Irish designer Orla Kiely, bold poppies from Finnish brand Marimekko and trawler screenprints from Mini Moderns. Art cards include seascapes by Cornish artist Elaine Pamphilon.

Illustrated Living, Lemon Street Market, Truro, www.illustratedliving. co.uk, 01872 273631.

Adorable Sailing boat bodysuit £11.50 en.dawanda.com

7

Wishlist_Sept20.indd 7

15/09/2015 11:50:57

talking points Crochet top dress £50 www.axparis.com

Champagne MOMENTS

Fran McElhone

Story of my life...

Former X-Factor hopeful turned Big Brother house resident Chloe-Jasmine Whichello stepped out looking elegant at a red carpet event, ahead of her stay with boyfriend Stevi Ritchie on the reality TV show. You might want to channel a slightly more covered-up take on the golden age of Hollywood, with these shimmering satins and lace in new season champagne shades.

Personal trainer?

No, just a small baby to lift! ust because you give before remembering I haven’t birth and your life is been out for a decent run in a few turned into wonderful days. disarray, doesn’t mean I kept up my running regime you have to turn into a slob and well into my second trimester stop exercising. Or does it? of pregnancy but then, due to The good news is, it didn’t me medical reasons, I was told to take long to find innovative ways stop. Instead, I carried on going to keep fit around the house – to yoga, which didn’t quite do it for a start, just carrying Woody for me, and then I gave up on that around and picking him up and because my bump was getting in lowering him into his crib is akin the way. I could hardly bend over, to a pretty serious session lifting let alone contort my limbs into all weights at the gym. manner of yogic positions.

For around 24 Plus, as my preghours after having nancy progressed, Woody, my stomI simply kept fallach muscles were ing asleep on the For 24 hours so spent I couldn’t sofa by the time after having even cough, but the class started at Woody, my I soon turned 7pm. nappy changing So by the time stomach into a workout I started running muscles were and started doing again after Woody so spent press ups over arrived, around the changing mat, half a year had I couldn’t pulling faces at elapsed – the longeven cough Woody and chatest I’ve ever gone ting to him, much without a proper to his amusement. cardio workout Then there are the daily (not including every hill or flight lunges and squats I’ve become of stairs I walked up from about accustomed to, and the endless week 30 onward). I couldn’t wait staircase climbing, both carryto get back on the trails, and ing Woody. They were deemed when I am, for that hour I’m out mandatory by him in the first few running through the trees and weeks of his life, otherwise he’d splashing through the mud, I refuse to drop off to sleep. feel completely revived. After all, Running, however, was admitexercise is good for mind, body tedly on hold for a while. I love and soul. I’ve now put in for the and need running – if I don’t London Marathon next April. go, I get het up about the smallAnd if I don’t get in, I’ll run a est things and then wonder why, marathon that day anyway.

J

Fran McElhone and her husband Mike live in east Devon with their new son Woody. Next week: Gillian Molesworth on family life in north Cornwall

steal her

style OPTION A Dramatic

IMAGE: IAN WEST/PA

Little Mistress maxi dress £34.99 www. getthelabel.com

OR MAKE IT YOUR OWN

OPTION B Svelte Plisse maxi dress £65 www.simplybe. co.uk

8

Gossip_Moley_Sept20.indd 8

15/09/2015 11:55:46

20.09.15

Just

between us A head for heights KATE WINSLET once owned a clifftop holiday home in north Cornwall, back when she was married to her first husband. She recently put that experience to good use during a frightening descent of a mountain as part of BEAR GRYLLS’ latest TV show. Bear asked her: “Kate, do you trust me?” and urged the star to remove her hands from the rope. To which Kate replied: “Right, come on, get me down this thing.” Vertigo, what vertigo? Kate’s got a head for heights!

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

!

Sienna Miller:

MUM’S THE WORD

HAPPY DAYS RICHARD HAMMOND has said JEREMY CLARKSON’s axing by the BBC has brought the former Top Gear team closer together.

Richard, Jeremy and JAMES MAY will now present a new car show on Amazon Prime.

Richard was asked in an interview with The Times if the events had made them more tight-knit as a group, to which he replied: “Yes, I suppose so. And

that’s good.

“We are on the best footing we’ve ever been on to go ahead now and do what we do best.”

Speaking about the format for the new show, he said: “There’s a lot to be done because we will reinvent, do new stuff, and that’s as invigorating as it gets. So what a fantastic challenge.”

SIENNA MILLER has talked about the “curse of motherhood” and how sleepless nights are still very much a part of her routine.

The actress gave birth to daughter Marlowe Ottoline Layng in July 2012, with then-partner TOM STURRIDGE. She told Vogue UK: “Obviously, when you have a baby, it’s the most incredible experience, but your life is also catapulted into this chaos and you are exhausted. I could literally get on this table and fall asleep.”

The 33-year-old star, who’s on the front cover of Vogue’s October edition, continued: “I’d like to be better at managing things; I’d like to be more super – although we’re never going to feel it, even if we are.

“That’s the curse of motherhood – we just run ourselves ragged.”

9

Gossip_Moley_Sept20.indd 9

15/09/2015 11:56:28

Cute: Richard Austin photographed the tiny harvest mice at Secret World Animal Rescue Centre in Somerset

in pictures Rock n roll: Lyme Regis hosted a world record attempt for the most guitars ever – on a beach

Wild flowers: St Breward Church’s flower festival had a jungle theme this year

Yikes: Five sharks were spotted swimming in waters off Land’s End by diver Emma Hankinson

10

WIP_TOP10_Sept20.indd 10

15/09/2015 11:59:10

talking points September

Spritz!

ONE OF US Famous faces with links to the Westcountry

10 songs with this month in the lyrics:

1 September Earth Wind and Fire

2 See You in September The Happenings

3 September in the Rain Frank Sinatra

4 Try to Remember Harry Belafonte

5 September Song Diahann Carroll

6 The Calendar Song Boney M

7 Papa was a Rollin’ Stone The Temptations 8 Back to December Tay-

10 celebrity perfumes:

1 Storm Flower Cheryl Fernandez- Versini

2 3 4 5 6 7

10 Jet Pack Blues Fallout Boy

Swift

9 Rosie for Autograph Nuit Rosie HuntingtonWhiteley

10 Halle Halle Berry

The happy list

10 things to make you smile this week

1 Pig’s Nose 2 Cornish Gillyflower 3 Ben’s Red 4 Cornish Honeypin 5 Sops in Wine 6 Pendragon 7 Slack-ma-Girdle 8 Hangy Down 9 Hoary Morning 10 Breadfruit

The artist Damien Hirst has a home in Combe Martin, north Devon and created the 66ft statue Verity, on display in Ilfracombe

8 Wonderstruck Taylor

Fruity

10 traditional Westcountry apple varieties:

Damien Hirst

Kardashian

lor Swift

9 Maggie May Rod Stewart

This week:

I Am Woman Joan Collins Killer Queen Katy Perry Gold Magic Little Mix Femme Kate Moss Heat Beyonce True Reflection Kim

1 Art Alan Cotton’s new show at Exeter museum

2 Crumble blackberry and apple, of course

3 Dartmoor Killing spooky new movie out now

4 Powderham Food Festival Oct 3-4 near Exeter 5 Greengages heavenly 6 Mini breaks at low prices 7 Green tea with lemon 8 New wellies it’s time 9 Vintage Fair Mawgan Porth Oct 3-4

10 Bake Off just so good

Beginnings: Damien Hirst is one an art show in a green Rolls Royce of the Young British Artists, who and bought Damien’s first major dominated the UK art scene in the installation, a large glass case 1990s. His most containing maggots famous works include and flies feeding on a a real 14-foot tiger rotting cow’s head: “As DID YOU KNOW? shark, preserved in I was making the fly formaldehyde. piece, I was thinking: Damien ‘I’m gonna knock Hirst is said Devon: Damien you down dead, and has three sons and change the world.’ to be the spends a lot of time And I showed it to a UK’s richest in his 300-year-old few galleries and they living artist, farmhouse near all just turned round Combe Martin in and went ‘Marvellous, worth £215m north Devon. darling.’” according to

The Sunday Verity: He has loaned Diamonds: Damien’s Times Rich his 66ft sculpture most costly work of art of a woman, called is a life-sized platinum List Verity, to the town skull encrusted with of Ilfracombe for diamonds, which sold 20 years from 2012. for £50 million. “I don’t “I want to make art, create objects think [money] should ever be the that will have meaning for ever. It’s goal, but I had no money as a kid and a big ambition, universal truth, but so I was maybe a bit more motivated somebody’s gotta do it.” than the rest.”

School: His art teacher “pleaded” for Damien to be allowed to enter his school’s sixth form, where he achieved an “E” grade in Art. Success: In 1990, millionaire art collector Charles Saatchi arrived at

Ilfracombe: Damien has bought four houses on the quayside in Ilfracombe, and is said to be planning a museum there. He owns several other properties in north Devon, including a clifftop house for his mother, and a guesthouse for his sister Gabby.

11

WIP_TOP10_Sept20.indd 11

15/09/2015 12:00:18

Interview

Tristan Sturrock is on stage and screen in Cornwall

12

TristanPoldark_Sept20.indd 12

15/09/2015 12:03:17

From Mining to Mystery Cornish actor Tristan Sturrock combines Poldark with du Maurier this month Words: Vicki Wilson

eptember promises to be something of a busy time for Cornish actor Tristan Sturrock. Not only will he star as Maxim De Winter in Kneehigh Theatre’s production of Rebecca at the Hall for Cornwall, but he is also filming the second series of the new BBC Poldark adaptation, in which he plays Zaccy Martin, Ross Poldark’s right-hand man at Wheal Leisure.

“Kneehigh is where I grew up as an actor, and I’ll always feel an incredibly loyalty to them – and this production of Rebecca is so well crafted, it is a real pleasure to be a part of it. But equally, the role in Poldark is important to me too, so I was very concerned about how the two were going to marry together. At one point, it seemed there would be an irreconcilable clash and a very difficult decision to be made,” Tristan admits.

“I met with writer Debbie Horsfield a few months ago, and discussed the dilemma of me touring around the country with Rebecca and the fact that Zaccy Martin plays quite a key part in the developments of the second Poldark series. Thankfully, we were able to work something out.” The solution will involve Tristan working on the various locations of the Poldark sets by day, and being driven out to the Hall for Cornwall each evening.

Playing both roles will involve a transformation from salt-of-the-earth mining man Zaccy to the mysterious estate owner Maxim. “It’s going to be hectic and demanding,” says Tristan, “but equally it is a wonderful challenge as an actor to play such different roles, both in the same time period.

“They are so very different. Zaccy is a very loyal and hardworking man from a poor mining family who has managed to improve his situation having learned to read

S

13

TristanPoldark_Sept20.indd 13

15/09/2015 12:03:49

and write, and through Captain Pol- one day you are riding high on fabulous dark’s friendship. reviews, and the next you can be back “Max de Winter, on the other hand down to earth with a bump. is a complex and sophisticated char“The main reason that I am so acter, a man in denial about a painful pleased about the success of Poldark is past. The treatment of the story in the that it is so good for Cornwall. It showKneehigh production cases how fabulous the is quite different to the county is, and I really famous film adaptahope that it brings a tion, just as the origimuch-needed spotlight ‘Poldark is nal book differs in the and revenue to the rendering of the way county. I’ve seen what so good for that Rebecca’s death an internationally sucCornwall. It came about. There is cessful TV show can the question: is this do for Cornwall, and showcases man a murderer? This visitors to the set locahow fabulous alters the way I play tions do travel around the county is’ the character, withthe whole county, so it out giving too much really is good news for away.” the local economy.”

Of Poldark’s treThe TV show he mendous success, refers to, of course, is he says: “It is great for Aidan and the Doc Martin. Tristan played a role as a other main characters that the series local fisherman in the pilot episode and has been met with such a wonderful the preceding film, Saving Grace. He reception, but personally I take it with later returned as Danny Steel, Louisa’s a pinch of salt. I’ve been in the acting devoutly Christian ex-boyfriend, and it game long enough to appreciate that seems this character makes a return in

[[

As Peter Pan in the Bristol Old Vic production

Tristan, left, in the BBC’s Poldark

Tristan (fourth from left) in the recent BBC drama Jamaica Inn

14

TristanPoldark_Sept20.indd 14

15/09/2015 12:07:13

Interview As Louisa’s annoying exboyfriend Danny Steel in Doc Martin

In the major film The Queen, he played alongside Helen Mirren

the latest series as Tristan has been filming on the Doc Martin set this summer.

“There are some interesting stories around his return,” confides Tristan. The wealth of roles in Cornwall is always good news for Tristan, as it means more opportunities for the Bristol-based actor to visit family who still live in the county.

“We come down often to see everyone – my kids love playing with their cousins and running wild for a few days each time,” he says.

“My parents founded STERTS, the theatre and art complex at Upton Cross near Liskeard, more than 30 years ago, and are still busy with it. It’s always so good to see them.”

With his career success chiming beautifully with so many successful Cornwall-based productions, it seems we’ll all be seeing a lot of Tristan Sturrock for some time to come.

In Kneehigh Theatre’s production of Tristan and Iseult

15

TristanPoldark_Sept20.indd 15

15/09/2015 12:07:56

IMAGE: ALUN CALLENDER

Sarah Thompson has transformed her ex-local authority home

16

StyleCouncil_Sept20.indd 16

15/09/2015 17:06:50

People

[

SARAH THOMPSON

Style council

[

Meet the Bridport woman who turned a Dorset council house into a chic home – and then wrote a book about it

W

[[

house, found in Bridport’s vintage shops. And in the kitchen, where she made the most investment, she removed a muddle of fitted cupboards around the window overlooking the garden to install bi-fold patio doors, which really make the most of the fabulous views.

Sarah’s experience has inspired her first book, Style Council. In it, she showcases other council house owners who have transformed the blank canvases offered by their own ex-local authority houses and flats.

The project saw Sarah – who earns her living

IMAGE: SARAH CUTTLE

husband Tom, who were struggling – with their one-year-old son – to find a family home in a

By Sarah Pitt Westcountry town where house prices had shot up because of its desirability to out-of-towners. hen she first saw the house destined Once they had moved in, Sarah set about transto become her family home, Sarah forming the space, using its lack of architectural Thompson did not immediately embellishment to her advantage. Walls became fall in love. “I recolourful backdrops for pop art member seeing the prints and retro posters. She estate agent’s details a number mixed modern funky accessories ‘All my of times and passing them over,” with mid-century pieces of furreservations she says. The 1950s ex-council niture of the same vintage as the semi overlooking Bridport in melted away west Dorset did not appeal, to say when I walked the least.

“My eye was caught by the through the door. building’s vaguely modernist I knew I would lines. But it had a dirty concrete have space to exterior – we later painted it to brighten it up – which stopped breathe here’ me giving it proper consideration. All my reservations melted away, however, when I actually visited the house. As soon as I walked through the front door, I knew I would have space to breathe here.”

Behind that unprepossessing uPVC door with fake stained glass was a well-proportioned architect-designed three bedroom house with plenty of storage. Eight years on, and Sarah has replaced the offending door with a pink one, salvaged from the local tip. But the panoramic views over local landmark Colmer’s Hillare as good as ever. The house also had a large garden, far bigger than the plots which usually accompany new-build houses in the same price bracket.

And, with the help of an interest-free Government equity loan for a quarter of the asking price, it was even affordable for Sarah and her

17

StyleCouncil_Sept20.indd 17

15/09/2015 12:12:51

THIS IMAGE & RIGHT: ALUN CALLENDER IMAGE: SARAH CUTTLE

Authentic 1950s colours such as mustard and orange work well together

as a copywriter – leave Bridport and says. “I was aware that some people jump on a train to talk to fellow crea- didn’t quite get it and were saying tive spirits who had made the most ‘That isn’t a very nice house’. So to of spaces not traditionally associ- be able to take the train to London ated with aesthetic possibilities. She and Sheffield and see other people found it a rewarding endeavour: “A who were doing the same thing lot of these council made me feel that in houses don’t look fact my house is OK, pretty from the outthere is not a stigma side, that’s the realabout living in an ex‘My house is ity,” says Sarah, 40. council house. It is “They are often on actually quite cool.”

OK. There is estates and haven’t She has particunot a stigma been looked after. larly come to appreabout living in a But then you step ciate just how wellthrough the front built these houses, council house. It door and there’s a mostly constructed is actually quite burst of colour and in the 1950s and cool’ elegance.

These 1960s, are compared properties appeal with the developerto people who see built houses of later below the surface.” decades.

Seeing what others had done with “One of the things that almost evetheir homes made her appreciate ryone in the book talks about is the what she had achieved herself, she generous spirit of their house,” she says. says. “These council houses were “Because I live in a small town, I built just after the war, as homes for felt that had to swallow my pride a heroes. In my house, which was built bit when I bought this house,” she in 1952, there are lots of thoughtful

[[

18

StyleCouncil_Sept20.indd 18

15/09/2015 17:09:11

People Sarah Thompson loves council houses so much, she wrote a book about them

IMAGE: ALUN CALLENDER

19

StyleCouncil_Sept20.indd 19

15/09/2015 17:10:16

People Win

Books to be won!

We have two copies of Sarah’s book Style Council to win, each worth £18. To be in with a chance, email your name, address and phone number, to ‘Style Council’ westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk Normal terms apply.

[[

Sarah bought original mid-century furniture for her 1950s home

IMAGE: ALUN CALLENDER

touches, like the concrete posts for the washing line in the garden and the fruit trees that were planted in every garden. There’s a coal cellar, lots of storage and a huge, huge garden, compared to what we were looking at on the same budget elsewhere. And it was not just the garden but also the amazing view, which I would struggle ever to get again if I was to move up the property ladder. It really was a no-brainer for us.”

In common the other ex-council houses featured in her book, Sarah’s own home was lost to the local authority housing stock by the controversial Right to Buy Act 1980. By the time she bought it, the property had long since been sold on by the tenant who was its first owner-occupier and had passed into the hands of a developer.

“He had obviously seen the potential, but he was painting everything magnolia and putting in wrought iron light fittings which were rather gothic. I saw it halffinished and said ‘stop right now’,” ‘Council houses says Sarah. “We moved in, and are blank went from there.”

The funky interior she has creatcanvases which ed was possible, she says, precisely we can do what because of the house’s intrinsic lack of fussiness. “That’s another we like with. thing which everyone I interviewed They open up for the book says, These houses are so many with. blank canvases which we can do “When I first moved in, I what we like with,” she says. “Bepossibilities’ painted everything white and cause they are all about straight pale grey,” she says. “There lines, they open up more possibiliwere many, many repaints ties than an older property.” before I dared to go for the strong teal blue in the Indeed, these former local authority homes sitting room.”

– Sarah’s included – are, she says, like “jewels In the hallway, she opted for black and white which reveal themselves only when you open the tiles for a 1950s look and, alongside old furniture, front door and step inside”. In her décor choices, she has gone for the odd touch of cheery kitsch she’s been inspired by the era when the house detail. A splash of colour in an otherwise bright was built. She’s gone for a colour palette of midwhite bedroom décor is provided by two striking century teal, mustard, brown and blue which, flamingo cushions, from smart designer label she admits, took a little courage to go through

Graham and Green.

“Someone pointed out that the flamingos are facing in opposite directions,” says Sarah, wryly, who now lives alone in the house with her children Stanley, eight, and Betty, six. “I separated from my husband earlier this year and, during that difficult time, I really felt that this house was looking after me. It has been such a comfort. It just feels so solid.”

Style Council by Sarah Thompson is published

by Square Peg, £18. Sarah blogs about her life at youresomummy.com

20

StyleCouncil_Sept20.indd 20

15/09/2015 17:11:15

the wedding show the perfect show for planning your perfect day...

Westpoint Arena, Exeter

–4pm

10-11 OCT 2015 10am

vance Tickets just £5 in ad

Ad pages.indd 3

phed fashion shows ✦ stunning choreogra t pe rfo rm an ces ✦ live en ter tai nm en ✦ flo ris ts ✦ we dd ing dre sse s aid dre sse s sm de bri ✦ ✦ jew elle ry ✦ gro om sw ear ✦ ha ir an d be aut y car s ✦ ven ue s ✦ ers ✦ ph oto gra ph r s ✦ cha mp agn e ba ✦ cak e de cor ati on

.co.uk

www.theweddingshow

16/09/2015 14:44:18

Moody hues Say goodbye to magnolia with the hot new decor trend for strong colour. Gabrielle Fagan has some ideas to inspire a sumptuous home transformation

This opulent bedroom features Bedeck’s Ziba bedlinen, navy duvet cover £80, quilted throw £195 and gold cushion £45, www.bedeckhome.com 22

Interiors_Sept20.indd 22

15/09/2015 12:21:32

Interiors

ur homes have a dramatic effect on our mood and spirit, so investing in their visual appeal makes perfect sense.

This time of year, when designers and stores release their new collections, is a perfect opportunity to track new trends. You can embrace them if you’re in the mood for a complete makeover, or simply shake up your existing scheme with some smart new buys.

This isn’t a season for the faint-hearted, as there’s a roll call of bold looks: think dark tones and glittery metallics, and moody ‘gentlemen’s club’ style settings which can make an impressive backdrop for carefully chosen furniture pieces.

If that all sounds a little too rich for your decor palette, you can go for more subtle interpretations – no trend’s worth following just for the sake of it, it must suit you, your lifestyle and your taste, too.

That said, there’s plenty around to bring personality to your rooms, and make your home awesome for autumn.

O

[[ ‘Combine dark purple shades and oversized, dramatic floral prints against lilac or blush tones’

Puccini drinks cabinet, £1,999, Wendy Morrison jewels rug, £595, and Odyssey large sofa, £2,000, all John Lewis’s new autumn collection

Floral interiors can be recreated for a cosier look as nights draw in. Conjure sultry colonial settings with dark, exotic blooms, or whip up a wild gypsy chic.

“We’re seeing a modern take on a classic floral look, which will achieve a bold statement in any room,” says Abigail Bom-

ford, senior design manager at George Home.

“Combine dark purple shades and oversized, dramatic floral prints against a neutral backdrop of softer hues of dusky lilacs and blush tones. For the less colour-confident, focus on a floral print and pair with washed-out white accessories, to conjure a soft, romantic atmosphere which is so prevalent in the autumn collections this year.”

Rich berry shades are popular now and most of the leading homes collections have embraced

STYLE TIP: Think dark tones and glittery Sainsbury’s Midnight Bloom bedlinen, £25 a set

metallics for a striking ‘gentleman’s club’ look to your interior decor 23

Interiors_Sept20.indd 23

15/09/2015 12:22:16

Interiors

Dunelm Mill’s Misty Floral range is awash with blooms: Wool rug from £69.99, cushion £12.99 and large fuchsia cushions, £12.99, www.dunelm.com

them. Jewel-rich colours and bold patterns feaEltham armchair, from £599, which looks suitture on upholstery, china and bedlinen in the ably flamboyant covered in their vividly patvery reasonably priced Midterned Lasenby green teal fabric. night Bloom collection from By Opulence, decadence and fullSainsbury’s. on luxury are all being celebratGreen is the new ‘black’ – ed this season, and the ultimate ‘Accessories that’s the decree of the decor sanctuary should be sensual, in materials experts who are plumping for with touch-me textures, moody such as marble, a trend already seen emerging dark shades and glitzy finishes. strongly in fashion.

“The luxe trend works in any polished brass “Mix deep bottle or racing style of home and is all about and crushed car greens with ochres, brick layering beautiful fabrics and velvets will add reds and aubergine purples well-chosen metallic pieces – to create a luxurious, layered gold, copper or bronze – which a luxury touch’ feel,” advises Stephanie Chen, can be combined with almost director of home at Marks & any interior style,” says Sue RobSpencer. erts, design director at House of “Accessories in materials Fraser. such as marble, polished brass and crushed “Soft and shiny shimmering fabrics, velvets velvets will add a further luxury touch and interest to a room.”

You could conjure a wild green backdrop with designer Christian Lacroix’s striking Pantigre (tiger and panther print) wallpaper, in Topaze Kiwi – a green, grey and black colourway. It is available, at £83 a roll, from the online site Amara (www.amara.com), which is a good source of unusual and affordable homewares.

Once you have your colour scheme decided, you can allow well-selected pieces to star, such as an Art Deco-inspired Marks & Spencer

[[

and silks, glowing accents and gilded metallics are all a safe choice this season. But for added opulence, keep warm hues at the heart of a scheme. Combine bold geometric pattern with rich textures to bring a stylised look home.”

To create a cocooning bedroom, with a sense of intrigue and tranquillity, why not try dark textured wallpaper? It’s a big change from the neutrals which have prevailed in recent years and will give a whole new look to your room.

Pair it with a lavishly dressed bed and sparkling, shimmering lighting. I’m impressed with Bedeck’s Ziba bedlinen range this season (www.bedeckhome.com), which is suitably sumptuous. You can also ramp up the glamour with an Opulence chandelier, from £260, from House of Fraser. It could be just the thing to make the dark nights glow this autumn.

STYLE TIP: Green is the new black, use deep

bottle green or racing car green with ochres, brick reds and aubergines

24

Interiors_Sept20.indd 24

15/09/2015 12:22:52

Shop

GET THE

LOOK

Strong colours, luxury fabrics and metallics are all on trend Pom pom cushion £22 Butterfly Home by Matthew Williamson Designers at Debenhams Opulence chandelier £260 House of Fraser

Laura Oakes lily bloom scented candle £16 Debenhams

Copper side table £145 www. frenchbedroomcompany. co.uk

Pineapple pot £12 Sainsbury’s

Eltham armchair upholstered in Lasenby fabric from £599 Marks & Spencer

25

Interiors_Sept20.indd 25

15/09/2015 12:24:26

Gardens

ANNE SWITHINBANK

Where to sow?

Devon’s Anne Swithinbank, panellist on Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time, considers the pros and cons of raised vegetable beds

[[ The advantages of all this cossetting are easy to see, as there is no danger of seeds rotting or drying out

n recent years, there has been a huge movement towards building raised beds for crops to grow in.

These can be anything from low boards to stop soil from spilling onto pathways, right up to the monster beds I saw recently at a garden used for therapy. These beds were at least waist high, with solid pathways between them, so you could work comfortably and hold face to face conversations. How lovely,

I

I thought, to avoid all that bending and squatting, never mind speaking to other folks’ bottoms.

Alongside the use of raised beds has come the habit of starting crops in modules or pots under glass, where temperature and watering are more easily controlled. These are then hardened off by placing them outside in their containers until adjusted to the weather, before being planted out. The advantages of all this cosseting instead of sowing directly into the soil are easy to see,

as there is no danger of seeds rotting or drying out, never mind being nibbled by slugs, snails or bean-fly. The season is easily extended and you’ll lose less seed, as you can place plants where you want them without sowing full rows and then thinning them out.

So if starting crops under glass and then growing them in raised beds saves time and makes life easier, why am I still growing on the flat? In part, this is because I find playing with soil and plants

26

Gardens_Sept20.indd 26

15/09/2015 12:52:35

more fun than construction work. There’s the expense too, though I know many folk glean the wood and enjoy the challenge of DIY. The highest raised beds are usually half-filled with some kind of hard core, as you only need a depth of good soil and compost to mimic the layer of topsoil you would normally find on an allotment.

But you’ll still need to buy good quality topsoil in. Solid pathways will cost too, even if they are just weed-suppressing membrane with shredded bark on top. Raised beds also have issues when the soil becomes stale and needs refreshing. To an extent, an annual top dressing with well-rotted compost or manure will maintain fertility for some years but eventually the soil will need to be changed. Veg raised up in beds also require more watering than those at ground level.

Also, I see my plot as an ecosystem and prefer wildlife (good and bad) to roam freely, unbothered by walls. I’m not keen on the sterility of beds and paths as I prefer a jungle to form by the end of the season. In fact with me, aesthetics win hands down over practicality every time. I’m also an advocate of direct sowing for many crops.

Of course, I do raise plants under glass here, but you have to be rigorous about being there to plant them out at the precise moment they need it, otherwise the young plant becomes root bound and will suffer. A seed in good soil might rot if the weather turns wet and cold but under good conditions, roots will grow straight down rather than curling about at the base of a module.

Versatility is great too and though I generally divide the ground up into 1.2m/4ft wide, slightly mounded beds, an area is often allowed to merge into one huge bed, so my husband and I can play with runner bean wigwams and groups of sweetcorn, rising from a sea of squash plants. Fixed beds and paths would stop all that.

Once designed and installed, there’s no denying that significantly raised beds are going to make veg growing easier and more comfortable, with the extra task of wielding a hosepipe less onerous than bending to sow, plant and weed.

For now, the most I’m prepared to do is install some easily moveable plank edgings held in place with wooden pegs. But when old age takes its toll, bring on the waist-high beds.

Question time with Anne West reader queries answered by Anne Swithinbank

Q

In your garden, what do you find are the best plants for attracting insects at this time of the year?

The bees, especially honey bees, are loving Sedum ‘Matrona’ which is a brilliant border plant with purplish foliage and heads of soft pink flowers.

The bees also love borage, sunflowers, hyssop and my new toadflax Linaria ‘Neon Lights’ (bought cheaply from the alpine section). Sedum is also a favourite with butterflies and a pretty small copper was taking nectar. Buddleia and verbena bonariensis are their next favourites.

I’ve seen some hummingbird hawk moths on the verbena and have spotted a silver Y moth on the agapanthus. Hoverflies have been swarming around the marjoram and are also loving my herbaceous Clematis heracleifolia.

Q

I’m looking for a small shrub or low-growing, long-flowering perennial to plant along the front of a border. I don’t want it to reach more than 60cm/24in.

The plant that came instantly to mind is the hardy geranium (or cranesbill) ‘Rozanne’ or ‘Azure Rush’. ‘Rozanne’ came to fame when it scooped the ‘Plant of the Centenary’ award at Chelsea Flower Show in 2013 from a list of plants launched at Chelsea, one for each decade of the show. To begin with I thought “oh, surely they could have voted for something more sensational than a cranesbill” but in fact this is a stunning plant. The plant reaches 60cm/24in high and produces a profusion of bowl-shaped, 5cm/2in wide, white centred blue blowers from early summer to early autumn. ‘Azure Rush’, meanwhile, is slightly smaller, flowers a tiny bit paler and it begins flowering slightly earlier.

This week’s gardening tips Anne’s advice for your garden

• Clear, tidy, square up and top dress veg beds in earnest as crops finish, so they are all dealt with in good time.

The next growing season soon comes around.

• Plant autumn onion sets, to give an early crop from next June. Shallot sets for autumn plantings are also available. It is often good to get both of these planted into a well-drained bed that will stay sunny and well-drained

during winter.

They can put their roots down into warm soil.

• Add new clematis, remembering to give them something (a trellis, a shrub) to climb, somewhere where their roots will be shaded yet the top reasonably sunny and to plant them lower in the ground than they were in the pot. Buried stems can send up new growth should the top be damaged.

Plant Plant containers with evergreen shrubs or those with colourful winter stems, grasses, winter flowering heathers, bellis, violas and spring flowering bulbs. These will shine through to spring, when you can separate them and plant them out, or give the shrubs a slow release feed and swap the bellis and violas for summer bedding.

Send your questions to Anne at westmag@ westernmorningnews.co.uk 27

Gardens_Sept20.indd 27

15/09/2015 12:54:30

Beauty

Tried

& tested

We present the beauty treats and cheats of the week, picked by West magazine’s Catherine Barnes, with help from daughter Tilly, 18

IN BLACK AND WHITE Black poppy, white tea and wild fig are key ingredients of this gorgeous range, made in the Lake District and London by the The Soap Co. Buy this brand and you’ll not only smell fabulous, but also support the blind and disabled people who work there. Prices from £5 to £8 at thesoapco.org

GORGEOUS

SUPER SMOOTH Slather on Soap & Glory’s luscious Righteous Butter (£10) post bath or shower for supersmooth legs. Find it at Boots.

Devon’s own supermodel Rosie HuntingtonWhiteley has launched her second fragrance for Autograph at M&S. It’s a sweet jasmine scent called Nuit Eau De Parfum. Rosie for Autograph Nuit Eau de Parfum 75 ml £28 and 30 ml £14.

CHEEKY! Sail away with Sleek’s trio of Santa Marina blushers (£10), part of a limited edition Nautical Collection. www.sleekmakeup.com

28

Beauty_Sept20.indd 28

15/09/2015 12:41:28

the review SHINY HAPPY Say goodbye to bad hair days with Superdrug’s Coconut Water & Coconut Oil Masque (£3.99).

Substitute your conditioner and leave this to work for two to three minutes before rinsing.

This week we try:

Perfumes From glamorous and grown-up to feisty and fun, there’s an autumn fragrance for everyone.

Katie Wright sniffs out the scents of the season ICONIC CLASSIC Did you know that bluebells don’t actually have a natural scent? So to honour this iconic flower, Yardley has dreamt up a fresh new fragrance, blending white florals with bergamot and sandalwood to create the delightful English Bluebell.

Yardley London English Bluebell Eau de Toilette, £9.99 for 50ml (www.yardleylondon. co.uk)

SWEET SONG

JUST SPRITZ SK-II’s moisturising spritz has been given Cate Blanchett’s seal of approval. The actress had a mini bottle of the Mid-Day Essence with Pitera, £54, in her purse at this year’s Oscars to keep her skin fresh, and it’s now available at Harrods (www.harrods.com).

KISS KISS P.S: We love Primark’s tinted balm (£1) in Screen Siren Red – great for livening up lips in a hurry.

The latest songstress to turn her hand to scent is Ariana Grande, with the pom-pomtopped Ari. A succulent blend packed with vanilla, marshmallow and rose, the eau de parfum opens with a tangy flash of grapefruit and raspberry notes.

Ari by Ariana Grande Eau de Parfum, £31 for 50ml (www.theperfumeshop.com)

FABULOUS FLORAL Housed in a stunning, antiquestyle amber bottle, Diptyque’s new jasmine-based juice is the product of two different harvests of the heady white floral, resulting in a rich scent with a slight caramel edge.

Diptyque Essences Insensees Eau de Parfum, £100 for 75ml (www.diptyqueparis.co.uk)

GIRL POWER Described as a ‘feminist floral’, the unapologetically bold Ghost Girl melds punchy pomegranate with tuberose and almond – it’s a (girl) powerful combo.

Ghost Girl Eau de Toilette, £34 for 50ml (www.boots.com)

Want a review? Send your request to westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk 29

Beauty_Sept20.indd 29

15/09/2015 12:42:30

Bangle £42 Oliver Bonas

Ribbon-tie sweater £89 Jigsaw

Cocoon cardigan £26 JD Williams

Winter coat £245 Betty Barclay

Collection coat with cashmere £120 M&S

Leather skirt £149 Jigsaw

Lingerie set £37.50 Rosie for Autograph M&S 30

Fashion_Sept20.indd 30

15/09/2015 12:56:51

Padded jacket £185 Betty Barclay

Blush pink ant to look gorgeous this autumn?

Well, yes, obviously. And on trend too? The quickest way to tick both those boxes is to add a dash of this season’s must-wear colour: blush pink. It’s flattering, feminine and a really wearable alternative to the wintry blacks we can all to easy find ourselves wrapped in from October to March. Instead, you can be warm and cosy, but in this prettiest of light pink shades thanks to the lovely items on offer in the shops now. Betty Barclay has some wonderful coats and jackets, and we’re also very keen on Jigsaw’s offerings, especially this perfect little leather skirt. Which would go beautifully with their ribbon-tie sweater.

Off to the shops!

W

Handbag charm £15 Dune

Brogues £59 Autograph M&S

31

Fashion_Sept20.indd 31

15/09/2015 12:58:20

Trend

HOW TO WEAR IT:

High necks MAIN PHOTO HAIR: ADAM AT SAKS, EXETER MAKEUP: CLARINS, DEBENHAMS (BOTH PRINCESSHAY) PHOTOGRAPHY: STEVE HAYWOOD STILL-LIFE PHOTOGRAPHS: PR SHOTS

Kathryn Clarke-Mcleod on taking the high neck route on’t you love it when the season’s major trend is very likely already in your cupboard, in some incarnation or other? In fact, I’d put money on the fact that you have some version of a high neck jumper lurking in your knitwear pile, just waiting to be rediscovered. I’m not a clairvoyant, nor have I been rifling through your chest of drawers. Thing is, after nearly 27 years in the fashion wilderness, the polo neck had a pretty huge moment in 2012. Everyone from Carol Vorderman to Elle Macpherson was seen rocking the look and the Daily Mail reported that Marks & Spencer sold an impressive 400,000 polo necks in autumn alone. It’s definitely a bet where the odds are in my favour.

Three years later, they’re back again. DKNY and Orla Kiely were just two of the major fashion houses who embraced the elongated I have sat in a neckline for their AW15 colleccoffee shop with tions, and I’m more than a little pleased. sweat glowing A lot of style blogs are brimon my brow ming with images of women swathed in high neck knitwear, fighting the gilets and even coats, which can urge to rip off be a bit bewildering when we are mid what the media are dubmy gorgeous bing ‘an Indian Summer’. chunky knit I think the best way to approach your 2015 foray into the roll-neck terrain is to opt for something sans sleeves. This way, you get to your core temperature reaches dangerous levels. jump on board even on the balmiest of Tuesdays, It is essential to be able to strip down to a bottom and being sleeveless makes it an even more eslayer that is just as chic as the total ensemble. sential part of your wardrobe as winter rolls in.

The amount of times I have been caught out by Here’s why. I don’t know about you, but my the above scenario is embarrassing. I have sat in pet peeve as things cool off is how difficult it Coffee #1 with sweat glowing on my brow fightis to dress appropriately for a day that will see ing the urge to rip off my gorgeous chunky knit. you moving between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Eventually, primal needs take over and I end of Such as, well, a shopping trip. When there is a bit sipping the rest of my beverage in shame, horriof a chilly wind you need that extra layer when bly aware that the stretched-out string vest I had dashing between Zara and Oasis, but the minute flung on under my magazine-worthy cashmere you sit down for a skinny decaf in a heated space is not only doing a dismal job of hiding my bra

D

Top, All Saints, Princesshay, £98 Skirt, All Saints, Princesshay, £65 Necklace, Next, Princesshay, £14

straps, but it makes me look like I am on day release from a facility of sorts. Oh, and that I stole the jumper lying on the seat next to me. Cringe.

Owning this sleeveless version will ensure I can swan in and out of shops without a care this season.

It’s so useful, I bet it’s the only one I buy this season! On second thoughts, scrap that. After all, one must gamble responsibly.

All fashion in these pictures is from Princesshay Shopping Centre, Exeter, www.princesshay.co.uk

32

Trend_Sept20.indd 32

16/09/2015 10:29:35

NEW LOOK Bronze foil ribbed high neck sleeveless top £12.99

DOROTHY PERKINS Funnel neck jumper £24

GET THE

look NEW LOOK Gold high neck sleeveless bodycon dress £29.99

NEW LOOK Burgundy ribbed jumper £19.99

WI N £50 Princess hay gift card Now that the autumn season is upon us, what better way to upgrade your wardrobe than with a £50 Princesshay gift card? You could be shopping the latest trends and enjoy a day out in Princesshay with friends or family this season with this fabulous prize!

MONSOON Anastasia black fur jacket £119

Princesshay is home to more than 70 shops to suit all styles, budgets and shopping lists. Fashion fans can shop top brand names, from Reiss, Hobbs, MAC and Karen Millen to high street favourites including Topshop, Zara, New Look, Oasis and Gap. To enter, send your name and contact details to: West Magazine Competition, info@ onevoicemedia.co.uk by October 2 2015. Normal terms apply. By entering this competition via email you agree to receiving promotional and marketing emails from Princesshay. Princesshay will not pass your details to any third party.

33

Trend_Sept20.indd 33

16/09/2015 10:30:33

Fashion

The edit Your straight line to style: chic layers for autumn comfort

Gypsy blouse £20 BHS

+

Cashmere jumper £99 Monsoon

+

Blouse £69 Phase Eight

+

Black faux fur £44.99 New Look

+

Edition Preen £69 Debenhams

Suede £59 Very

Beaten texture cuff £35 Jaeger

Gold coin open cuff £3.99 New Look

Allusions triple stone cuff £10 BHS

+

+

34

Grid_Stars_Sept20.indd 34

15/09/2015 13:30:44

Stars

Your stars

by Cassandra Nye This week’s sign:

Happy birthday to...

People born on the Virgo-Libra cusp enjoy beauty in their lives. They may find themselves drawn to the arts, and often wish to make both themselves and their surroundings more pleasing to the eye. They have a great mind for detail, and can do a terrific job running a business or planning large gatherings because of their interest in appearances.

Billie Piper born September 22, 1982 Actress and singer Billie Piper celebrates her 33rd birthday this Tuesday. Her debut single ‘Because We Want To’ went to Number One in the UK, when she was just 15 but she later changed her focus from singing to acting. Her TV roles include Rose Tyler in Doctor Who and Belle de Jour in Secret Diary of a Call Girl.

Billie’s marriage to DJ Chris Evans, 16 years her senior, ended in divorce in 2007 and she is now married to fellow actor Laurence Fox, with whom she has two children.

VIRGO (August 24 - September 23) It is so easy to be overwhelmed by what we feel is bad in our lives. Sometimes this feeling is so strong that we forget to look at what is good. Despite experiencing something upsetting, try to see a brighter side this week.

A gloomy face could find you on your own. A smile, however tentative, brings others to you.

Being kind to others is a good investment of your time and also warms your heart.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) Feeling dynamic and go-getting? Great.

Along the way, also take the time to look after your health. Time out with a loved one, albeit small, can make the world of difference to your mood and energy. Don’t lose control of finances by being over-sentimental.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) Don’t take anything for granted this week as situations chop and change.

Keep ahead of any gossip, especially if it involves your work. Something that seems urgent does not need rushing at. Think first for the best results. You want someone to be close to you but they are not a mind reader. Communicate!

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 21) You are strong and capable of doing what others want. Don’t refuse because someone else thought of it first, as that would seem petty. Be the grown-up this week and let others do the fussing and fighting. The weekend brings good news and excitement in the family. Try being more ambitious – if not for yourself, then for loved ones.

CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 20) Mingling socially relaxes and brings new ideas. There are temptations, maybe in the form of the opposite sex.

Flattery comes your way and you find it a delight. Who wouldn’t? By the weekend, however,

you see someone in a clearer light. It isn’t that you only want to take, but you simply have nothing to give this person. This is not a time to change course.

AQUARIUS (January 21 - February 19) This week gives the chance to have another go at a pet project. Keep it under wraps until you are in the running to avoid pressure. Finances are looking up, but counting chickens before they are hatched could leave a bit of a mess.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20) Something that you see as a chore can be fun. Just get more people involved and explain exactly what you want them to do. Evenings are for relaxation, not more work. Compromising with a loved one is the best that you can do at the moment. Even so, that quality time together should be sooner rather than later. A piece of news, not necessarily connected to you, makes you see the light.

ARIES (March 21 - April 20) There is a special kind of closeness with partners and neighbours this week. If you are thinking of taking a relationship one step further, then this could be the time. It is not often that the ideas and ambitions of others tally with our own, so this time really is special.

Be charming rather than forceful when it comes to getting your way.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 21) There are magical times to be had with someone special. Those who are just starting a relationship will want to make an extra effort. Something that will make a difference to your life is offered. It is not in disguise but you will need to read between the lines.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) A crafty approach will give you what you want this week. Rather than touch on someone’s pride, let them think that the matter in question was their idea. Perhaps there is a feeling you should not have to ask for something that should already be yours but you should not suffer from pride.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) Thoughts of the past may be befuddling your mind as we go into a new week. Look into the eyes of someone who can take you forward. A workmate who seems to be stepping into your territory is probably just trying to help.

LEO (July 23 - August 23) Never talk down to someone who could one day be able to help you.

There is an art in explaining things.

Learn tact and patience and the rest will come naturally. It is important that you form good relationships this week.

35

Grid_Stars_Sept20.indd 35

15/09/2015 13:31:32

Wellbeing

the boost

Life just got better. We’ve handpicked the latest wellness trends, best-body secrets and expert advice to help you be your best self, everyday

NEW RESEARCH: It may not be calories that count in the battle for good health. Doctors Aseem Malhotra and Professor Simon Capewell say that there’s been too much focus on the calorific content of food, whereas it’s the nutritional content that counts.

For instance, a daily sugary drink of 150 calories increases the risk of diabetes, but a daily 60g handful of nuts significantly reduces risk of heart attack and stroke. It’s food quality, not calorific content that matters.

HEALTHY APP-ETITE? If cooking healthy family meals from scratch is your aim, but work and extra-curricular activities leave you pushed for time and groping in the deep freeze, then a free app from www. planwelleatwell.com could be for you. It will help you plan weekly meals, shop and cook recipes and also keep within budget. Download it onto your phone for inspiration while you do the shopping.

WALKING

week

The Bedruthan Spa and Hotel kicks off a Walking Week on Saturday with a day-long rain-orshine ramble (9.30am to 4pm) along the coast path from the hotel. Guide Steve Crummay will help you identify wildlife and wild flowers along the way.

Places cost £30 per adult (£10 per child) and it’s advisable to book, on 01637 860860, or visit www. bedruthan.com for details of other scheduled activities.

36

Wellbeing_Sept20.indd 36

15/09/2015 13:34:22

LOOK GOOD FEEL GOOD Sport England’s This Girl Can adverts have inspired millions of women to get out there and exercise – wobbly bits and all. Which could be why sales of women’s fitness gear are now growing more rapidly than men’s, according to marketing experts Key Note. The ‘athleisure’ trend for stylish keep-fit wear is now popping up all over the high street.

GOING THE

DISTANCE

SLEEP ON IT

Keen runners and cyclists who register to take part in the Dartington Duathlon on October 18 will start off with a 10 km road run, then a 40 km bike ride before finishing off with a 5 km cross-country run within the grounds of Dartington Hall Estate. Could you go the distance? Register at: www. justevents.org

Are you changing your pillowcase often enough? According to skincare experts Flint + Flint, bacteria and oil may get reintroduced into the skin during sleep, so if you’re prone to outbreaks or acne, having a fresh, clean pillowcase to sleep on may help.

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

@WMNWest or email westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk 37

Wellbeing_Sept20.indd 37

15/09/2015 13:34:58

Wellbeing

My job involves long deskbound hours and over the past couple of years, I’ve put on weight. I’ve tried dieting and joining a gym.

But planning meals and exercise sessions makes me feel even more pressured, as well as tired at the end of the day, craving comfort food and then feeling like a failure. Help!

Q

Escape the desk If your job is sedentary, there’s still lots you can you do to keep fit and lose weight

Devon-based personal trainer Sian Brooks says: As a personal trainer I worry that, when people in moderation. embark on a diet or exercise regime, they put Stress is a fact of life and has a major impact too much pressure on themselves to lose the upon our overall wellbeing. Biologically, when weight. They not only slow the we’re stressed or anxious, we process but do themselves more release cortisol, a hormone deharm than good. signed to increase blood sugar I read a Facebook post recentand enhance our fight-or-flight If you enjoy ly which simply said: ‘The six response. While a certain best doctors are sunshine, water, amount of cortisol is essential swimming, rest, air, exercise and diet.’ How for day-to-day living, excessive swim. If you true. And if these six things, levels can lead to problems: a which are essentially free, are suppressed immune system, enjoy cycling, the keys to being healthy, why weight gain, gastrointestinal ride.

Do what do we spend so much money on problems, sleep deprivation and makes you the health and fitness industry? blood sugar imbalances.

If you’re carrying too many So how do you break the happy pounds, weight loss is essential cycle? First, stop trying to refor long-term health. But just solve your health and weight think about how much money worries with drastic lifestyle the diet industry’s generating, changes that will only prey on when we could improve our quality of life just by your mind. Forget fad diets and starvation tactics getting outdoors every so often, drinking plenty and only sign up to an extreme boot camp if you of water, sleeping better and savouring good food think you’re going to enjoy it!

[[

Yes, there are huge benefits to training hard.

But if the thought of it is enough to get you stressed out before you’ve even started, then ask yourself, what’s the point? Furthermore, if you beat yourself up because you’ve only lost 2lbs instead of four, you’re doing it wrong. This is NOT sustainable!

Instead, find something you enjoy doing that raises your heart rate and challenges your muscles. Powerwalking with a rucksack (picnic on the moor, anyone?) is a great example, while a yoga class or pilates session will also help destress and relax your mind. If you enjoy swimming, swim. If you enjoy cycling, ride.

Do what makes you happy and gives you the satisfaction of having done it. Eat what you want, but ask yourself, do I need this, or do I want it?

Fitness and weight loss don’t have to be expensive, or indeed, cost anything at all.

Sian Brooks offers lifestyle-balanced personal fitness coaching and specializes in rehabilitative exercise after stroke. Find out more at www.salad-dodgers.co.uk

38

Wellbeing_Ally_Sept20.indd 38

15/09/2015 13:38:38

Eat

ally mac’s

Avocado Kale Smoothie Ally says: I’m a big fan of green smoothies and they are an excellent way to incorporate extra greens into your diet without much effort. All my green smoothies start with coconut water, which is the perfect base because it’s super-hydrating and it has a very clean and subtle taste.

To thicken the smoothie without the use of ice (which is really hard to crush in a blender and eventually waters down the flavours of the smoothie) I use frozen bananas. Frozen bananas are just magical.

While raw kale isn’t very pleasant on its own, once you blend it with rich creamy avocado and sweet ripe bananas, it tastes really good! I also added a little fresh squeezed lime juice to brighten up the flavors.

Technically this recipe serves two, but I can easily polish off the entire jug myself. It’s that refreshing and delicious.

@allyskitchenstories

You will need: 1 1/4 cup coconut water 2 cups kale leaves 1/2 cup avocado, peeled and cut up 1 banana, frozen 2 tsp fresh lime juice

Method: Pour coconut water into your blender. Add your kale, avocado, frozen banana and lime juice.

Put on the lid of your blender and blend until smooth. Pour your smoothie into two glasses and serve immediately.

@AKitchenStories

Natural food expert Ally Mac lives and cooks in South Devon. Ally specialises in devising good-for-you recipes that are easy to prepare at home. She also sells several of her own delicious healthy products online at www.allyskitchenstories.co.uk 39

Wellbeing_Ally_Sept20.indd 39

15/09/2015 13:39:23

Eat

Ingredient of the Week

Pears

with Tim Maddams to appear on these pages, so a few more cheffy tips should help you to use up what is set to be a plentiful harvest this year.

Pear makes excellent puddings and desserts, either poached, pureed, baked or otherwise and beauty. they love a little spice. Cinnamon Properly ripe pears are a is commonly used but I prefer star treat and a far cry from the anise and even a few coriander supermarket all-year-round seeds and chilli. An excellent spicy Cinnamon is cold-storage cardboard ones. chutney or ketchup can be made There are lots of varieties from pear, pumpkin and green commonly used to try right now, some firmtomatoes. A pear and rocket salad but I prefer star fleshed and crunchy, others with plenty of Cornish Yarg or soft and grainy. You’ll see Devon Blue makes for an excellent anise and even shiny and green pears, some dish. Oh, and I love pears with aira few coriander spotted and some russet dried ham. seeds and chilli but all are excellent. Even Finally, I like to make pear and the most common of pears, blackberry crumble. It just works the conference, is a thing of better than apple and there are gastronomic delight when few things tastier than a good old properly ripe. crumble. Give your pears a little I love a pear with a pork pie and some mustard. thought, handle them carefully and they will In many ways it’s the perfect packed lunch. reward you greatly in the kitchen – and even But that’s hardly enough of an endorsement more so in the dining room.

T

here is something very British about a pear. They are in many ways like us as a nation; small, a little oddly shaped and unpromising-looking, but actually full of wonder and

[[

And a partridge in a...

I have on occasion served pear and partridge together and, if you’re up for giving it a go, then now is the time. Roast your pears quartered and cored in a hot pan with a little pork fat to get them going, dress them with the resting juices from the partridge and cook them in the oven until just giving a little. Then finish with chopped rosemary before serving with the partridges. Yum. @TimGreenSauce

Tim Maddams is a Devon chef and author of Game: River Cottage Handbook no. 15 (Bloomsbury £14.99) 40

Tim_Beer_Sept20.indd 40

15/09/2015 13:53:07

Drink

Beer of the week To the Angarrack Inn, near Hayle for the first beer festival there under licensees Nick Simpson and Geoff Greaves.

From a superb beer list of award winners, most former champion beers of Britain, I was particularly smitten by Aurora from Sussex brewery Burning Sky, set up by ex-Dark Star brewer Mark Tranter. Golden and full of fruity, resinous hop, but so well balanced and drinkable, even at 5.6% ABV.

Still waiting for reform

Campaigners fear the government is dragging its heels on pub company reform legislation. The pubs code and adjudicator element of the Small Business Act won’t come into effect now until June 2016. Dave Mountford, of the Pubs Advisory Service, says: “With 29 pubs closing a week shutting, it can’t happen fast enough.”

Darren Norbury

talks beer pat is the wrong word, but I have of this world. Don’t get me wrong, I like beer in got involved in a little contretemps all its manifestations. But the more beer festivals on Facebook, all about brown beer.

I go to, the more I feel the traditional British pint If Facebook needs a protection order. wastes as much That we lost St Austell Tinners of your life as it does mine, a few years ago just when head you’ll know how easy it is to brewer Roger Ryman had made I am starting get drawn into things which it a go-to session bitter was unto feel the you really should just let go. fortunate, although I do like its But the intimation that golden replacement, Trelawny. Cornish traditional beers are the way forward led Best (formerly Dartmoor Best) British pint me to point out that, while that has some of Tinners’ qualities, needs a may be so, we shouldn’t forget and thankfully, down my way, traditional bitter. In fact, new, we have other good examples protection order young hipster brewers should of the bitter style which mean be mastering a standard bitter there’s no need to panic yet (Penfirst before venturing into the zance Brewing Co Crowlas Bitter, realms of triple IPA and ImTintagel Harbour Special, Penperial Stout with cacoa nibs. pont Roughtor spring to mind).

Reader, it didn’t go well, but I stood my ground.

But I do hope our Westcountry bitters survive for And I stand by my argument. Craft beer is the future generations, when the hipster beards have buzz, hipsters the target audience, but there’s turned to grey goatees and the dimpled pint glass a huge audience still out there for traditional remains iconic rather than ironic. dark amber/brown bitter. The Otter Ales, DartDarren Norbury is editor of beertoday.co.uk moor Jail Ales, Spingo Middles and Doom Bars @beertoday

S

[[

HALF TIME? The Driftwood Spars, in St Agnes, Cornwall, has added a new third beer festival to its list of annual events. The teasingly named Beer Festival of Two Halves will be held on October 30 and November and will feature live music as well as beer and cider. But what can that title possibly mean?

41

Tim_Beer_Sept20.indd 41

15/09/2015 13:53:54

Enjoy A WEEKEND IN...

Bude

Summerleaze beach

here’s plenty to do in Bude and now’s a great time of year to do it and make the most of the early autumn sunshine. A host of stylish boutique hotels and eateries have popped up here in the very north of Cornwall, but it’s still possible to stay, play and eat affordably - and of course, its beautiful beaches and coastal walks are free.

T

Make glass at Beau Nidol workshops

Stay: In the town centre, The Falcon Hotel was built in 1798 and overlooks the historic Bude Canal. A double room starts from £62.50 per room. Or check out the hip Hebasca, where boutique-style B&B costs from £85 per night and you can upgrade to include dinner. Elements Hotel on a clifftop between Bude and Widemouth Bay is also gorgeous – rooms cost from £79 a night, while its restaurant caters has a laid-back and family-friendly menu.

Eat: There are lots of great eateries now in Bude.

Enjoy fresh seafood in the chilled-out and trendy Tommy Jack’s Beach Hotel restaurant (this place also has its own mini aquarium!). Its menu options include a delicious cod-stuffed burrito (£10.95).

Starboard @Rosie’s Kitchen on Crooklets beach cooks many of its menu options over eucalyptus wood, including its ‘de-constructed’ chicken kebab (£12) served with a homemade flat bread.

Veggie options are also available.

Explore:

Head for the Castle Bude, which was formerly the home of Victorian inventor Sir Goldsworthy Gurney and is now a heritage centre. Among its attractions is an art gallery, currently showing paintings by artists including the Westcountry-based Irene Jones. Stop for tea and cake at the Castle’s Limelight café and enjoy the sea views.

42

A_Weekend_In_Sept20.indd 42

15/09/2015 13:57:07

Tommy Jack’s

Hebasca B&B

MAIN PICTURE: ROSS HODDINOTT

Elements Hotel Glass from Beau Nidol

Do: Grab

your wetsuit – you can learn to surf or hire a board at the Bude Surfing Experience year round, £35 per session. Or try stand up paddleboarding, with individual sessions costing £90 or £35 each for a group session. Book on 07779 117746.

Try: Take part in a glass art-making workshop at Beau Nidol on the wharf (01288 353388). Places cost £35 each.

Shop: For vintage inspired kitchenware try The Kitchen Front. The ceramics, peg bags and aprons are all made by artist Clair Roberts, who also hosts an occasional pop-up tea room at her Lower Wharf shop (with ration-inspired menu) and is also set to host a 1940s tea dance at The Falcon Hotel on November 14.

43

A_Weekend_In_Sept20.indd 43

15/09/2015 13:57:56

Putsborough beach cafe and shop

My Secret Westcountry Veronica Henry Veronica Henry, author of bestselling novels including The Beach Hut, lives in Ilfracombe, north Devon with her sons. She worked as a TV scriptwriter on programmes such as Heartbeat, Doctors and Holby City before becoming a novelist. Her latest book, High Tide, is set in the Westcountry.

My favourite...

Walk: Holdstone Down, near Ilfracombe – it’s smothered in heather and gorse in clashing bright yellows and purples. As you reach the brow of the hill the sea stretches out in front of you. It always takes my breath away. Half of me expects a swashbuckling horseman to come galloping past – but none has yet.

Beach:

I walk from Woolacombe to Putsborough every day with Zelda, my miniature Schnauzer, and have a cappuccino at the cafe in Putsborough The beach is different every day, depending on the weather and the tide, so I will never tire of it.

Festival: It’s a tie between the Fowey Festival of Words and Music and Appledore Book Festival (which begins on September 25). They are both small, but lively, in glorious seaside 44

MSW_Sept20.indd 44

15/09/2015 14:09:55

People

The Old Quay House, Fowey, above Holdstone Down

Dinner at Kentisbury Grange

time for Christmas. Mix with prosecco for a Sloegasm – a good Westcountry cocktail!

Pub: Sunday lunch at The Kings Arms in Georgeham is the perfect pitstop after a long dog walk – there’s a fantastic range of roasts and tons of fresh vegetables and rib-sticking puddings. And a roaring log fire in winter!

And they’ll call you a cab if you over-indulge…

Restaurant: The Coach House by Michael Caines at Kentisbury Grange is a wonderful treat for lunch – superb cooking and chic surroundings. I always see someone I know in there, so I’m not the only one with a guilty pleasure.

Putsborough beach cafe and shop

settings and attract some wonderful authors and celebrities.

Activity: I’ve recently tried Stand Up Paddleboarding, which is waaaaay easier than surfing but still quite strenuous. It’s an exhilarating way to explore the coastline. I’ve just about stopped falling in!

Food: Fresh crab, bought from the kiosk at the harbour in Ilfracombe. Our favourite family supper is crab linguine – just add garlic, chilli, flat leaf parsley and good olive oil.

Tipple: Well, it will soon be time for sloes, so I find out on the grapevine where the best are growing and then make sloe gin and vodka – in

Relaxation: I recently joined the North Devon Wild Swimming group on Facebook, and they do some amazing swims in secret places.

I haven’t been as often as I would like but they are very adventurous and inclusive and friendly. Moonlight swims are a favourite.

High Tide is published by Orion Fiction (£7.99) www.veronicahenry.co.uk 45

MSW_Sept20.indd 45

15/09/2015 14:12:01

My life

[

man and boy

Back to school

[

Phil Goodwin, father of James, five, are back to the grindstone again ow was your return to work after your summer break? Did you slip smoothly back into gear? Did you relish the challenge, roll up your sleeves and apply your sunburned nose firmly to the whirling grindstone? Yes, of course you did. I certainly found the return from holiday refreshing – plunging from 32C in Southern Russia to 12C in cloudy England – that was quite a shock to the system.

I returned to the homeland with a hangover after the overnight plane trip (Sochi to the UK is a complicated affair involving a 3am start and a changeover in Istanbul). Free drinks so often seem like the perfect solution to boredom. But despite my delicate state, I remained upbeat. For a while. All it took to plunge me into a pit of miserable autumn depression was a crushing defeat for my beloved Liverpool FC. I had returned home just in time to take advantage of my hugely expensive Anfield season ticket and was able to witness firsthand the complete humiliation of the millionairesin-red, who dutifully obliged by crashing to a humbling three-nil loss to West Ham United. I kicked stones down the streets of L4 while the Hammers, whose last victory at our place came in 1963 with a goal by a certain Geoff Hurst, sang of ‘forever blowing bubbles, pretty bubbles in the air’. Well, at least someone was happy, I thought. And anyway, there is more to life than football. Right?

The family returned home a little after me and a couple of days before the start of school term. The boy came back with armfuls of gifts from his Russian inlaws. It also appeared the grandfather has been collecting copies of a railway enthusiast’s magazine – 40 to be precise – each

H

with a separate component of something approaching the Great Western Railway. One suitcase contained almost an entire layout, complete with platforms, water towers, houses and so one.

All it required was glue, I was told. Wonderful, I thought. Young James was eager to start work and started tearing open the weekly instalments.

My dear wife is now into the final stretch of her three-year doctorate and writing up her thesis, a soul-destroying process as any veterans

[

“How was it then?”

I asked him after school. “Boring,” he said.

[

will attest. The end of summer for her simply represents another reminder that she is right up against it. No joy there.

The lad, by contrast, has had a pretty good summer of it, judging by almost any standards.

He really shouldn’t have a care in the world.

He travelled on four aeroplanes, played to his heart’s content, swam in 28C seas almost every day and even rode a ski lift to the top of a high peak in the Caucasus mountains.

I reminded him of all these events as we completed his summer diary the night before the first day in big class. No more Reception – now he is in year one. He and his classmates regaled the teachers with tales of their summer adventures, or so I discovered when I picked him up.

The tiny cohort emerged from the class looking pristine in freshly pressed shirts and dresses, crisp new shoes, all clutching rucksacks and book bags. How delightful, I thought, to be so free of the cares of the adult world, lost in a journey of discovery.

“How was it then?”, I asked him. “Boring,” he said. “But did you tell them about your trip?” I pressed. “How you caught a jelly fish?” “Yes I did,” he grimaced. “So where did your friends go then – anybody do anything exciting?” I tried. “I can’t remember,” was all he could manage, and that through gritted teeth. “Never mind,” I said, “You have got tennis tonight”, I encouraged. “You remember how much fun that was at the start of summer?”

“Don’t wanna go,” he declared.

“That’s boring too.” So young, so ungrateful, so cynical.

Such happy days.

46

ManandBoy_Sept20.indd 46

15/09/2015 14:15:08

Ad pages.indd 3

16/09/2015 14:45:22

live.com

Kirill Karabits Chief Conductor

Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra    ⁄ 

Concerts across Devon and Cornwall Brahms Two

New Year Johann Strauss Gala

Truro, Hall for Cornwall

Torquay, Riviera International Centre

   .

   .

 Oberon Overture   Cello Concerto  Symphony No.2

 Fledermaus Overture, Tritsch-Tratsch Polka, 40 Thieves Overture, The Blue Danube and many more

Frank Zielhorst conductor Michael Petrov cello

Aleksandar Markovic conductor Rebecca Bottone soprano

01872 262466

01803 206333

BSO Concert Season at Exeter, Great Hall Organ Symphony    .

John Lill Piano Recital    .

 Euryanthe Overture  Piano Concerto -  Organ Symphony

Sibelius 150    .

Yan Pascal Tortelier, Louis Lortie

Mozart by Goebel    .   Amadis des Gaules: Overture & Suite  Violin Concerto K571a  Symphony No.31 “Paris”  Chaconne from Idomeneo Reinhard Goebel, Mirijam Contzen

Tickets from Exeter Northcott Theatre

01392 726363

 Piano Concerto  Symphony No.7   Kirill Karabits, Juho Pohjonen

Last Night of the Christmas Proms    . New Year Johann Strauss Gala     For more information and online booking visit live.com A cultural beacon for the South and South West of England

Ad pages.indd 4

16/09/2015 14:47:18