Cardiff Life - issue 155

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property

CELEB RATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

ISSUE 155 / SEPTEMBER 2016 / £3

ISSUE 155 / SEPTEMBER 2016 / INDIE PICKS / WONDERMAN / SCHOOL OPEN DAYS

P CK & MIX CARDIFF’S INDIE RETAILERS CHOOSE THEIR FAVOURITE PRODUCTS

W HO IS WONDER MAN? H OT YOGA: FEEL THE HEAT LI FE’ S LI T T L E L U X U R IE S SOCIE TY STANDAR D: CAR DI FF’S FOX I ES T NEW BAR ( OR I S I T A K IT C H E N ? )

editor’s letter / Issue 155 / SEPTEMBER 2016

Little luxuries Many of us aspire to the sort of luxury lifestyle enjoyed by Hollywood A-listers and Premier League footballers, but indulgence doesn’t have to mean ostentatious stuff like flashy cars and dream holidays. It’s the little luxuries of modern life that are important; the small, day-to-day things and affordable little treats that keep us going, like breakfast in bed, a squirt of your favourite perfume, a bit of peace and quiet away from the kids, an after-work pint etc etc.

So, we asked Cardiff’s great and good what ‘luxury’ means to them, and got back some very interesting responses – turn to page 18 to see what they all had to say.

Also this issue, we get some of Cardiff’s indie shops to pick out favourite products from their own stock, eat out at über-cool bar/ kitchen Society Standard, get the lowdown on Wonderman, Gagglebabble’s exciting new Roald Dahl-inspired gig/theatre production, and a whole lot more. Enjoy!

Y pethau bychain

34

SEE THE LIGHT Cardiff’s coolest independent shops delve into their cupboards and pick out some gems

Mae llawer ohonom yn dyheu am y bywyd moethus y mae sêr Hollywood a phêl-droedwyr yr Uwch-gynghrair yn ei fwynhau. Ond nid oes yn rhaid i bleserau bywyd fod yn bethau sy’n tynnu sylw, megis ceir crand a gwyliau drud. Pleserau bach bywyd sy’n bwysig; y pethau bach, fforddiadwy o ddydd i ddydd sy’n rhoi boddhad i chi, megis brecwast yn y gwely, eich hoff bersawr, ychydig o lonydd ar ôl bod yn gofalu am y plant, diod ar ôl gadael y gwaith ac ati.

Felly, buom yn gofyn i rai o enwogion Caerdydd beth y mae ‘moethusrwydd’ yn ei olygu iddyn nhw a chawsom ambell ateb diddorol iawn – trowch i dudalen 18 i weld beth oedd ganddynt i’w ddweud.

Yn y rhifyn hwn, rydym hefyd yn gofyn i rai o siopau annibynnol Caerdydd ddewis eu hoff bethau o blith y nwyddau y maent yn eu gwerthu, rydym yn cael pryd o fwyd mewn bar/bwyty ffasiynol tu hwnt o’r enw Society Standard, rydym yn dod i wybod mwy am Wonderman, sef gig/ cynhyrchiad newydd cyffrous Gagglebabble a ysbrydolwyd gan Roald Dahl, a llawer iawn mwy.

Mwynhewch!

Velimir Ilic Editor vel.ilic@mediaclash.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @CardiffLifeMag

REGULARS / ISSUE 155 / SEPTEMBER 2016 M EET T H E T EAM

MAIN FEATURES

Editor Velimir Ilic vel.ilic@mediaclash.co.uk

18 Life’s Little Luxuries Cardiff’s great and good on the meaning of ‘luxury’

Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Andrea Byrne, Andrea Callanan, Elisabeth Mahoney, Hugo Ball, Katie Kissoon, Rhys Williams, Roxanne Duris, Sophie Rae

52 It’s Chriiiistmaaaas!

Yes, it is only September, but that Christmas party won’t book itself

56 Education

Advertising manager Andy Baker andy.baker@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Claire Hawkins claire.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Steve Hawkins steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk

How to survive school open days

OPINION 15 A Man’s World Fun and sun for Rhys Williams

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Christina West christina.west@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk

51 Girl About Town Andrea gets herself locked up...

THE ARTS 25 Arts Intro

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk

Artist Stephanie Tuckwell’s work, like ‘light and time unfolding’

26 What’s On Essential arts and culture picks

30 Wonderman is coming!

Gagglebabble’s gig-theatre spin on Roald Dahl’s dark stories

SHOPPING 34 Editor’s Choice

48

Cardiff Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800, mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

Local indie retailers show us their favourite wares

HEALTH & BEAUT Y

DEPARTMENTS

38 Fashion

48 Hot Yoga

11 Spotlight

The trend taking Cardiff by storm

Game-changing cinema tech, Viking treasure and more

Embrace the stripe!

FOOD & DRINK 41 Food News Street Food Circus’ Feast Clwb, Wales’ coolest cafés and more

42 Restaurant Elisabeth Mahoney gets that Friday feeling at Society Standard

BUSINESS 73 Business Insider Cardiff Life Awards update, Sherlock (yep, that one) and more

PROPERT Y 84 Property Showcase A character cottage with fab views

62 Snapped!

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag).

Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help.

Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

The usual happy mix of parties, launches, awards ceremonies etc.

Were you there?

90 Cardiff Lives This month, architect and former BBC telly presenter Michael Davies takes his turn in the chair

On the cover Cardiff’s indie retailers in the spotlight

BOOK NOW! For further information please contact the Business & Events Department on 01443 224204 or email: conference@miskin-manor.co.uk For a full list of Christmas events at Miskin Manor please see the ‘What’s On’ section of the website; www.miskin-manor.co.uk/whats-on

With an array of party nights on offer, there’s something for everyone and what better place to celebrate than in the exquisite setting of Miskin Manor Set in 25 acres of award winning grounds, just off Junction 34 of the M4, Miskin Manor takes on a different kind of appeal each season with Winter being no exception. Dating back to the tenth century, the Manor is bursting with an abundance of lure and history making it a truly magical place to celebrate the festive season with your friends and family.

Arrive at 7pm for arrival drinks and marvel at the charm and character of the Manor house. You’ll then be seated to a scrumptious three course dinner, carefully crafted by our dedicated chefs using only the finest, local ingredients.

After dinner, let your hair down and dance the night away with our resident DJ or live singer, not forgetting to make the most of the complimentary photo booth, ensuring you capture the festive cheer beautifully.

Miskin Manor Hotel | Groesfaen, Pendoylan Road, Nr Cardiff, CF72 8ND | 01443 224204

70s/80s Christmas Party Night Friday 2nd December | 7.00pm – 12.00am £45.00pp

Masquerade Christmas Party Night Friday 9th December | 7.00pm – 12.00am £45.00pp Flappers & Dappers Christmas Party Night

Sat 10th December | 7.00pm – 12.00am £45.00pp

Rock ‘n’ Roll Party Night Friday 16th December | 7.00pm – 12.00am £45.00pp

#goaircardiff

Brainstorming is better when you're bouncing From small team sessions to whole park hire, book Go Air – Wales’ largest trampoline park – for a completely unique and highly memorable corporate event! Whether its for a Christmas party, teambuilding event, client entertainment, sales meetings, training days, product launch or staff incentives, we can create a bespoke session spanning a thrilling mix of open jumping, trampoline dodgeball, fitness sessions and group challenges!

And besides… where else do you get to beat the boss at bounce basketball?!!

DEDICATED MEETING ROOMS TO CATER FOR GROUPS OF ALL SIZES AUDIOVISUAL FACILITIES AN ARRAY OF CATERING OPTIONS

Book online at www.goairtrampolineparks.co.uk. For more information please tel: 02920 099 899

SUMMER OFFERS

Tooth Whitening

£180

LAFFAN

Laffan Dental Care, 205-207 Blackwood High Street Gwent, NP12 1AA 13 miles from Cardiff. Full disabled access and parking at rear.

For more information please phone: 01495 224175. ba

Visit us online at: www.laffandentalcare.com

C A R D I F F: I T S L I F E A N D T I M E S

A DOG’S LIFE

IT MUTTS BE LOVE

Game-changer: 4DX is considered the biggest innovation in cinematic technology to date

Could you be a ‘super-fostering’ superhero to a special hound?

‘Super-fosterers’ are being sought by rescue charity Greyhound Rescue Wales – which re-homes around 300 ex-racing greyhounds and lurchers each year – in an innovative scheme to rehabilitate some of the dogs in its care while they wait for their ‘forever homes’. The three-month pilot project is a unique opportunity for fosterers to learn excellent dog training and behaviour skills, with full support from the organisation’s team of experts.

“Super-fosterers should be prepared to follow a pre-designed training plan to help the individual hound learn about life in a home,” said dog behaviour and training consultant Kerry Sands. “This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone wishing to boost their dog training skills and to improve the lives of these wonderful hounds, who have been overlooked by prospective adopters through no fault of their own.”

For more: Contact Kerry on 07980 853672, email superfoster@greyhoundrescuewales. org.uk or see greyhoundrescuewales.co.uk

FILM

SENSES WORKING OVERTIME Listen up, film fans – the revolutionary new 4DX experience is coming to Cardiff

Could you foster Wilson, a six-year-old black greyhound?

Cineworld Cardiff will be the first cinema in Wales to embrace the immersive, gamechanging motion picture 4DX experience, set to launch on 16 September.

Introduced from South Korea and considered to be the biggest innovation in cinematic technology to date, the 4DX auditorium will stimulate all five senses through high-tech motion seats and special effects such as wind, fog, lightning, bubbles, water and scents.

Available in both 2D and 3D formats, 4DX – exclusive to Cineworld in the UK – works in synchronicity with the action on screen, promising to create an exhilarating cinema experience, and has already been adopted by the big Hollywood Studios, with more than 300 movies and blockbusters screened in 4DX to date.

Cardiff’s 4DX auditorium will house 152 specially designed seats, plus a huge curved screen measuring 12 metres by 5 metres – bigger than a double-decker bus.

The 15-screen cinema will also be introducing Superscreen – another first in Wales – with a wall-to-wall screen that reaches the ceiling, dual projectors for a brighter 3D experience and a powerful, multi-dimensional sound.

“Nearly 150,000 4DX tickets have been sold since launching last year and cinemagoers have absolutely loved it, so we’re thrilled to be opening the first 4DX in Wales,” said Rich Barnes, general manager at Cineworld Cardiff.

“We cannot wait to see customers’ reactions when they try it out! We are always looking at the latest innovations in technology, and with our offering now including 4DX as well as Superscreen, we are giving customers more choice to watch a movie how they want.”

The Cineworld Cardiff 4DX auditorium opens on 16 September, with tickets going on sale from late August. For more information and film times, see cineworld.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 11

C A R D I F F: I T S L I F E A N D T I M E S

Coining it in: some of the rare Viking silver to be displayed at National Museum Cardiff

Local folk share their photos This issue: Cardiff-based clothing brand Xandra Jane Design instagram.com/xandrajanedesign

Inspired by vintage markets and antiques down at the Pumphouse [Pumping Station]

One more sleep until the launch of our #genderfluid jumper!

ARCHAEOLOGY

TREASURE TROVE

A hoard of Viking silver will be displayed for the first time as part of National Museum Cardiff’s Treasures: Adventures In Archaeology exhibition The haul, found last year in Llandwrog, north-west Wales, includes ingots and coins dating back almost a thousand years to the time of King Canute (101635). The exhibition, part of Wales’ Year of Adventure 2016, also explores how archaeology has shaped popular culture, since early adventurers started exploring the ancient world.

It also includes other exciting objects on display in Wales for the first time, including pre-Columbian gold and ancient Greek artefacts. “Wales has its own share of archaeological adventures and treasures,” said Dr Mark Redknap, head of collections and research (history

12 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

and archaeology) at National Museum Wales. “The Llandwrog hoard amplifies the picture we are building up of the wealth and economy operating in the kingdom of Gwynedd in the 11th century.

“Visitors will also be able to see the Roman hoard of coins and rings from Sully, silver from the wreck of the Ann Francis – which was lost on Margam Beach in 1583 – and human remains from Viking-age burials at Llanbedrgoch, Anglesey.”

The Treasures: Adventures In Archaeology exhibition runs until 30 October. For more, see museum.wales/cardiff

Strips of hand-cut jersey are all cut out and ready to be sewn together to create the yarn

Never been so excited over donated secondhand shirts

This is what a 7m handmade ball of custom yarn looks like – having a sofa Saturday!

A MAN’S WORLD

RHYS WILLIAMS Ou r ma n at Ca rdif f Blues

HAPPY DAYS Yet another month of fun and sunshine for Rhys – it’s alright for some…

A

lthough I’ve lived in Cardiff for 18 years, I’m still discovering new places and hidden gems within the city. Preparation for the new rugby season is gathering momentum, but that hasn’t stopped me from exploring our new-ish home in Pontcanna during the long summer evenings and weekends.

Just last weekend, I took my daughter Megan to Pontcanna Fields for a picnic and the park was so busy – lots of families had the same idea and took the art of picnicking to another level. There were lots of games being played and it reminded me of when I was a kid growing up and doing the same thing. We ended up staying there, in the sun, for three hours or more. I’ve enjoyed finding new little places, too; one of those is Kemi’s, a wonderful little delicatessen/café

Sam Warburton and fans grab a selfie at Cardiff Blues’ Land Rover sponsorship announcement at Cardiff Castle

on Kings Road that does the most beautiful salads and awesome coffee. My mission is to get out there and find some more, so please feel free to point me in the right direction!

Talking of gems – I was taken aback

by Cardiff Castle this week. We launched our new principal partnership with Land Rover, with all the Cardiff Blues squad and coaches in attendance, and more than 160 children from across the region taking part in tag rugby. It was a brilliant event and, of course, we are thrilled to have such a global, prestigious brand as Land Rover involved with us, but what an amazing setting Cardiff Castle is. I’m ashamed to say I have never had the full tour, but it is certainly at the top of the list for the next outing with Megan.

And I’ve been glued to the Olympics – the Rio Games came slightly under the radar after the Euros, but it has all been

IT’S BEEN FANTASTIC TO SEE TEAM GB IN ACTION, WINNING MEDALS GALORE brilliant so far. Like most people, I found myself watching sports I would never usually bother with – the diving has been great and I’ve really been enjoying the gymnastics.

As a keen cyclist, I’ve also been watching as much of the stuff on two wheels as possible, and was absolutely gutted to see Cardiff boy Geraint Thomas just miss out on a medal in the men’s road race. It looked as though he was on course for glory, following a brilliant ride, before coming off on the final corner of a savage descent in Rio. It was a devastating blow but Geraint dusted himself off in typical style – this is the man who rode the 2013 Tour de France with a fractured pelvis, after all – and managed to finish the race in tenth place.

But let’s not forget track cyclist Owain Doull, another Cardiff boy, who won a gold medal with the men’s cycling pursuit team.

What a race to watch! They had their work cut out to beat the Australian team, but all that training paid off as they won in world record time – beating their own record set in the semi-final. Amazing.

It’s been truly fantastic to see Team GB in action, bagging medals galore. Let’s hope there is more to come and that they can finish strongly in the medals table [at the time of writing, GB were in second place].

Now, could somebody please explain the rules of dressage to me?

Rhys Williams is an ex-Wales and Cardiff Blues rugby star, now commercial director at the club.

For more, see cardiffblues.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 15

Contemporary Jewellery Gallery Tues - Sat 10am - 5pm 10 Glebe Street, Penarth, CF64 1ED | 029 2071 1036

www.annemorganjewellery.com

Life’s a

beach

*

(*and other luxury-related stories) From completely free to obscenely expensive, luxury comes in different forms – Cardiff’s great and good tell us what ‘luxury’ means to them...

By H UG O BA L L

L

uxury doesn’t have to mean a fancy car, superexpensive holidays or an ostentatious bit of bling, and often means different things to different people: one man’s dirty burger is very likely another man’s foie gras, after all.

It’s the day-to-day little luxuries that are key, the small treats and experiences we all look forward to – a lazy weekend, really good coffee, the Peaky Blinders box set, or whatever. So, with that in mind, we asked some of Cardiff ’s brightest lights what luxury means to them – and got some very interesting responses…

Gorgeous, no? A good sunny walk on beautiful Rhossili Bay beach in the Gower Peninsula would be our go-to luxury indulgence

LIFE’S LITTLE LUXURIES

ALEX JENKINS

CLARE STURGES

So – what does ‘luxury’ mean to you?

Incredible food and drink in sumptuous surroundings. I had some amazing meals whilst working in the music industry – 25 courses at Nobu was definitely pretty special. And having the time to appreciate life, whether that’s a quick spin on the bike or a walk on the beach with the dog – very good for the mind and soul.

Most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

My wife – just kidding! My house, predictably.

What would be your desert island luxury of choice?

A Lebanese mezze – my favourite food.

What does ‘luxury’ mean to you?

Time to relax, chat with friends, stare out of the window at the rain, read, think, watch Netflix boxsets, cinema trips, walk in the sun. It has never been about expensive things, although I do love a good bottle of Taittinger.

Most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

A pair of £400 Prada kitten heels in Paris. For that price, I hope they last a lifetime!

What would be your desert island luxury of choice?

A super-techy pair of binoculars. I’d use them to admire the wildlife, scout out

CO-OWNER, KIN+ILK

DOCUMENTARY FILM-MAKER

faraway parts of the island for signs of human life, scan the night skies for beautiful constellations and scour the horizon for a rescue boat.

ANDREA CALLANAN FOUNDER, INSPIRE ME

EMMA JONES OLD BILLYO

What does ‘luxury’ mean to you?

Bling ain’t my thing. For me, it’s all about time – time to travel, eat, read, rest and appreciate good things. It’s a realisation that dawns with age.

Most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

A taxi ride in Beijing. I was with friends trying to get across the city; we ended the journey lucky to be alive and skint. Luckily, the beer was 23p per bottle, so we managed to console ourselves.

What would be your desert island luxury of choice?

An acoustic guitar. I’d have all the time in the world to master it!

What does ‘luxury’ mean to you?

Bubble baths (alone!), prosecco, time with my children, time with my husband (minus the children), a good novel and a holistic facial at Year Of The Tiger health spa.

Most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

My first hand-held mic – it cost me £997, after haggling down from £1,400.

What would be your ultimate desert island luxury of choice?

Necker Island – because I want to bend Richard Branson’s ear about inspireMe and get served cocktails on tap!

PAUL BEDDOE

SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR, VALE RESORT What does ‘luxury’ mean to you?

Time. Absolutely nothing beats time spent with my granddaughter or simply by myself, preferably with a nice glass of Allan Scott Pinot Noir and a good book, listening to the Nashville TV series soundtrack.

Most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

My recently acquired Jaeger-LeCoultre watch from Watches of Switzerland – pure indulgence.

What would be your ultimate desert island luxury of choice?

Probably a Tempur Cloud pillow. It’s a silly price to pay for a pillow, but how much value can you attribute to a good night’s sleep? w www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 19

LIFE’S LITTLE LUXURIES

HOLLY MULLER NOVELIST

What does ‘luxury’ mean to you?

Having the time and freedom to explore. So, a walk up in the hills or even just around the back streets and undiscovered alleys, a rifle around in the charity shops or market, or a trip out in my old car, that may be broken in so many ways, but can take me anywhere I want to go.

What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

The old broken car! Oh, and half of my upcoming wedding.

And what would be your desert island luxury of choice?

Notepads and endless pens, of course. If I couldn’t physically escape the island, at least I could escape in my mind, into whichever new world was filling my thoughts and dreams. So much uninterrupted writing time!

DORIAN BOWEN

ELISABETH MAHONEY OWNER, ONE MILE BAKERY

What does ‘luxury’ mean to you?

As someone who bakes for a living, luxury is sleep. Alarm off, deep sleep in a dark, quiet, rural bedroom. And if someone else can sort breakfast and I can go for a swim first thing; that ticks all the luxury boxes.

Most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

My dog. She cost us nothing to

re-home, but as a cumulative expense, it’s crazy. She’s a twoyear-old springer, so gets into everything, and I’m a sucker for all the posh snacks and toys. I buy dog popcorn at weekends!

Desert island luxury of choice?

Stretching the rules, I know, but a monthly sample of the world’s best cheeses, with an accompanying delivery of sourdough from Tartine bakery in San Francisco. Best bread on the planet (apart from mine!).

OWNER, PROJECT ONE What does ‘luxury’ mean to you?

The epitome of luxury would be taking the time to enjoy the world around me, but unfortunately I’m all about the next big thing, so I rarely get the opportunity to properly slow down and partake in such moments.

Most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

I’ve gone a little car-mad of late, the most expensive being an Audi R8. It falls rather short in the traditional luxury department but if sheer thrills and fun are your thing, you won’t be disappointed.

What would be your ultimate desert island luxury of choice?

Can I re-phrase the question to ‘luxury desert island’? It’d definitely be Zaya Nurai Island. We’ve recently returned from a design trip and as a ‘once in a lifetime’ destination, it’s an unbelievable experience on so many levels – you just have to keep pinching yourself.

DAVID MAHONEY ONLY MEN ALOUD

What does ‘luxury’ mean to you?

For me, luxury can be as simple as a (very rare!) day off in Cardiff Bay, seeing the city in a different light with a coffee – or something stronger – in hand and the masts of Penarth Marina on the horizon.

What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

My house in Pontcanna – they don’t come cheap there. But I guess that’s to be expected in one of the UK’s most fashionable suburbs (according to a Sunday Times poll, not me!).

What would be your desert island luxury of choice?

My phone. I know it’s a boring answer, but I like to keep up to date with what’s going on in the world and it would also double up as my source of music. How else would you start the desert island beach party? w www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 21

LIFE’S LITTLE LUXURIES

ANDREA BYRNE NEWSREADER

What does ‘luxury’ mean to you?

I love to escape into a good story and I’m always happy when I have my Kindle in hand. I’m also trying to write a novel which never seems to progress past the first chapter; and I’m also constantly threatening to run another marathon.

And anything that involves champagne and/or lying on a sunbed in an exotic location would also pass the test!

What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

Without a loan? Probably our Borneo/ Malaysia honeymoon!

What would be your desert island luxury of choice?

My schnauzers Hank and Marcy (assuming I’m already stranded with my husband, of course – goes without saying that he’d be my first choice!).

GAIL DE’CLAIRE

INVESTMENT MANAGER, CHARLES STANLEY

MELANIE CONSTANTINOU BAKED BY MEL

What does ‘luxury’ mean to you?

A good cooked breakfast – preferably that I haven’t made myself!

Most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

A velvet cape at a Country Living fair. I tried it on and there was such a crowd of appreciative ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’, that I was swayed by the vanity of the moment and said “I gotta have it!”.

Desert island luxury of choice?

Chocolate! I was once living on a beach, without electricity or running water, and discovered purely by chance that the beach ‘shop’ – a little hut – had a fridge with Twix and Mars bars. You’ve never seen someone get their flip-flops on so fast!

DAN TYTE

MD, WORKING WORD PR So, what does ‘luxury’ mean to you?

Whatever gives me the space and time to not have to think about anything other than what I’m doing right there and then.

Most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

My bar tab.

What would be your desert island luxury of choice?

A Moleskine notebook and a Mont Blanc pen – to help order my thoughts in the most elegant fashion!

22 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

What does ‘luxury’ mean to you?

Appreciating things in life that give you huge pleasure, and that are absolutely free, like walking to our local beach with the family and dogs and taking in the amazing scenery. And cycling across the barrage to work in the morning when few people are around, rather than driving bumper to bumper.

Most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

When I was 16, my nan gave me £250 birthday money (around £700 in today’s money) and I bought two very special pairs of shoes.

I still have them today and remember wearing them the first day I dropped off my daughter to nursery; the teacher commented on how nice they were. Looking back, they were a bargain!

What would be your desert island luxury of choice?

My treasured family photo album – each picture takes me back to a special time and place in my life. I travel with it whenever I go away. Can I slip in my lipstick, too?

WINNER! Best Hair Salon - Cardiff Life Awards 2016

why choose

?

MADAME FROMAGE THE FINE CHEESE SPECIALIST

WEDDING CHEESECAKES For a unique, attractive and personalised alternative to the traditional wedding cake it has to be a Madame Fromage cheese tower. A fun, eye catching and tasty way to surprise everyone as well as being surpemely satisfying... without the huge expense!

Why not visit our site in the centre of Cardiff or give us a call to start arranging your perfect cheese tower.

• all organic hair products and colour • Creative Director, Greg James, formerly of Kamigata • late nights Wednesday and Thursdays • Goji Junior for children, open on Sundays • Olaplex and Nanokeratin treatments offered • Great Lengths hair extensions specialist • secluded, relaxing environment in the heart of Pontcanna

We look forward to welcoming you to Goji!

No6 Pontcanna Mews, Kings Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9DH.

Ti Breizh Ltd ta Madame Fromage, 21-25 Castle Arcade, Cardiff, CF10 1BU. Tel: 02920 644888 Email: info@madamefromage.com madamefromage.co.uk

Telephone: 02921 321211 / Email: info@gojihair.com Twitter: @gojihair / Facebook: goji hair / www.gojihair.com

Music/theatre/film/more

WATER WAYS

Recently shortlisted for The Sunday Times’ prestigious watercolour competition, recognising the best in contemporary watercolour art, award-winning Cardiff-based artist and lecturer Stephanie Tuckwell’s work is “based on my experiences in the landscape, with a focus on the intersection of land and sea.”

Working quickly and directly, shifting between drawing and painting, her fluid, sensory explorations of watercolour, dry pigment, ink and gesso are beautifully realised, as illustrated by her Flow piece (pictured above), where intricate forms and layers seem to drift across the surface of the paper, like light and time unfolding, evoking the transitory nature of the world.

For more info, see stephanietuckwell.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 25

26 August – 27 September

Welsh National Opera do Macbeth; Xian Zhang conducts the BBC National Orchestra of Wales; Peep Show actress and popular stand-up Isy Suttie

Plays/Shows/ Performance

the human story often gets lost amidst the headlines.

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk

29 AUG US T – 3 S EPTE MBE R

6 - 1 8 SE PTE MB ER

NO MAN’S LAND Following their hit run on Broadway, Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart return to the UK stage in Sean Mathias’ acclaimed production of Pinter’s absurdist and entertaining masterpiece.

New Theatre; newtheatrecardiff.co.uk 6- 8 S E PTE M B E R

SCORCH For some, the internet is a place to be yourself. But out in the real world, things can be very different. A story of first love through the eyes of a gendercurious teen, examining how

FAULTY TOWERS: THE DINING EXPERIENCE Based on John Cleese’s classic sitcom (the spelling of ‘Faulty’ is intentional), this looselyscripted performance is barrels of fun – Basil is manic, Sybil is domineering and Manuel is hopeless. When they’re serving you a three-course meal, everything that can go wrong probably will…

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

story/tragedy of star-crossed lovers, featuring renowned physical theatre company Frantic Assembly.

New Theatre; newtheatrecardiff.co.uk 10 SEP TEMBER – 2 O C TO BER

WELSH NATIONAL OPERA WNO return with their thrillingly intense adaptation of Macbeth (10, 15, 17 & 24 Sept), André Tchaikowsky’s emotionally-charged The Merchant Of Venice (16 & 30 Sept), receiving its UK premiere, and Cole Porter’s Kiss Me, Kate (29 Sept – 2 Oct), full of wit, dance and hit songs.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 13-18 SEP TEMBER

9 - 1 0 SE PTE MB ER

ROMEO & JULIET Modern take on Shakespeare’s love

26 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

WONDERMAN A dark, humorous gig-theatre take on Roald Dahl’s short stories for

adults. See Arts feature, page 30.

Tramshed; tramshedcardiff.com 15-24 SEP T EM B ER

THE GOOD EARTH Facing pressure from the local council to move down the road when a new development is proposed, a group of passionate villagers decides to fight back in this explosive new play.

Chapter; chapter.org 16-17 SEP T EM B ER

CARGO In the dark of a container ship, a group sits huddled. Will they survive the perilous journey to find a better future? Or is their greatest threat already sitting amongst them?

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk

W H AT ’ S O N

Comedy 7 SEPTEMBER

ROB AUTON: THE SLEEP SHOW Offbeat, bumbling comedy/ theatre routine from the awardwinning writer and performer, exploring themes of sleep.

Chapter; chapter.org 1 8 S E PTE M B E R

ISY SUTTIE The Peep Show actress hits the road with her new show, The Actual One, in which a bet with her mum results in a mad dash to find a boyfriend within a month.

Glee Club; glee.co.uk 2 1 S E PTE M B E R

JAMES ACASTER “One of the sharpest comic minds to have emerged in recent years,” says The Guardian.

Glee Club; glee.co.uk 2 5 S E PTE M B E R

THE NOISE NEXT DOOR The off-the-cuff comedy japesters turn up the volume for their third national tour.

Glee Club; glee.co.uk

Film UNTI L 2 5 S E P T EMBE R

ROALD DAHL ON FILM A celluloid celebration of the great storyteller’s delightfully dark tales for adults. Highlights include Nicolas Roeg’s dark and witty take on The Witches (1-4, 13 Sept), and select episodes from classic and wonderfully macabre telly series Tales Of The Unexpected (6 & 20 Sept).

Chapter; chapter.org

surrounding the disappearance of her daughter.

Chapter; chapter.org

Music 3 SE PTE MBE R

ABSE & CO Musician Anthony Reynolds and songwriter Rachel Gill put the work of Welsh poet Dannie Abse to music.

Chapter; chapter.org 5 SE PTE MBE R

ELEANOR FRIEDBERGER American singer/songwriter, best-known as one half of indie/ rock duo The Fiery Furnaces.

The Moon Club; themoonclub.net 6 SE PTE MBE R

AN EVENING OF SUNSHINE PSYCH-POP AND BEYOND Featuring the skewed psych-folk of No Thee No Ess, squeezebox player Guto Dafis and Cardiff troubadour Harri Davies – think John Martyn meets Nick Drake.

Chapter; chapter.org 1 3 SE PTE MBER

NATALIE MCCOOL Mesmerising and deliciously dark alt-pop tunes from the fast-rising singer-songwriter.

The Moon Club; themoonclub.net 1 5 SE PTE MBER

CHRISTINA BIANCO Celebrating the music of the world’s iconic divas, from pop to Broadway, the vocal impressionist sings in her own voice and in the style of Ariana Grande, Celine Dion and Barbra Streisand et al.

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk

1 SEPTEMBER

HIGH-RISE Ben Wheatley’s adaptation of J. G. Ballard’s novel, a savagely brilliant satire on excess and consumerism. Starring Tom Hiddleston, Jeremy Irons and Sienna Miller.

Chapter; chapter.org

(From top) Improv comedy troupe The Noise Next Door are at Cardiff’s Glee Club; Liverpool’s rising alt-pop chanteuse Natalie McCool

romantic composer, Tchaikovsky.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

Exhibitions UNTIL 3 SEP TEMBER

2 3 SE PTE MBER

GUADALUPE PLATA Spanish psych outfit, with a frenetic blues and punk-style fusion of rockabilly, flamenco, spaghetti western scores and jazz rhythms.

The Moon Club; themoonclub.net

9 -2 1 S E PTE M B E R

JULIETA Spanish auteur Pedro Almodóvar’s latest, based on three short stories by Alice Munro. A chance encounter causes a woman to reflect on the tragic circumstances

ARTS

2 7 SE PTE MBER

BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES Principal guest conductor Xian Zhang oversees her inaugural concert at Hoddinott Hall, exploring the work of Russian

WHERE WILL I BE Photographs by Walter Waygood and Huw Alden Davies, depicting life in the South Wales valleys.

Ffotogallery; ffotogallery.org UNTIL 4 SEP TEMBER

‘WAR’S HELL!’ – THE BATTLE OF MAMETZ WOOD IN ART Exhibition marking the centenary of the titular conflict, one of the most significant battles fought by Welsh soldiers during the First World War. National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk

UNTIL 1 1 S EP T EM B ER

WEAVE Featuring the work of 24 artists – selected following an open call for artists earlier this year – each with an element of ‘weave’, highlighting their own individual approach to design and making.

Craft In The Bay; makersguildinwales.org.uk UNTIL 1 8 S EP T EM B ER

STICKY INTIMACY Inquisitive, quirky scultpures by artists Katie Cuddon, Emma Hart and Nicholas Pope.

Chapter; chapter.org UNTIL 2 4 S EP T EM B ER

DOES THAT INCLUDE US? Intergenerational programme of spoken word, theatre, music and visual art, presented by artists, facilitators and activists. g39; g39.org w

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 27

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

UNTI L 3 0 S E P T EMBE R

AUGUSTUS JOHN IN FOCUS One of the leading Welsh artists of his generation, no less.

National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk UNTI L 2 0 N O V E MBE R

QUENTIN BLAKE: INSIDE STORIES Co-curated by Blake himself, a magical insight into one of the world’s most important illustrators, best known for his work on the books of Roald Dahl.

National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk 2 S E P T E M B E R – 8 OCTOBE R

ELFYN LEWIS Distinctive abstract paintings from the North Walian artist. gallery/ten; gallery-ten.co.uk 8 S E P T E M B E R – 1 OCTOBE R

CLIVE HICKS-JENKINS Paintings and drawings based on the theme of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, the poetry classic vividly translated for a modern audience by Simon Armitage.

Martin Tinney Gallery; artwales.com

U N TI L 1 4 JA NUAR Y

THE WONDERCRUMP WORLD OF ROALD DAHL A magical, interactive experience inspired by the extraordinary life, work and boundless imagination of the much-loved, Llandaff-born storyteller, aimed at all ages from 7 to 107.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

Book Now 7 - 2 2 OCTOBER

THE WEIR Set in a remote bar in rural Ireland, four friends have disquieting stories to tell – and a stranger to impress.

Conor McPherson’s chilling, contemporary classic brims with heartfelt humour as the drinks flow and deepest fears are confessed in the dead of night.

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk 1 2 N OV E MBER

Family

THE QUEEN EXTRAVAGANZA The brainchild of Queen drummer Roger Taylor and guitarist Brian May, a show celebrating the 40th anniversary of the band’s iconic album, A Night At The Opera.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

ONGOING

1 7 N OV E MBER

DOCTOR WHO EXPERIENCE Experience mind-blowing special effects, fly the TARDIS through time and space, and face the Doctor’s scariest foes in 3D. Porth Teigr, Cardiff Bay; doctorwhoexperience.com

MARK STEEL The left-wing stand-up’s new show, about the search for his natural mother, is frank, funny and surprisingly poignant.

Glee Club; glee.co.uk

28 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

(Clockwise, from top left) Pedro Almodóvar’s Julieta; Clive Hicks-Jenkins’ narrative art, based on Sir Gawain and the Green Knight; chilling new drama The Weir

SUMMER

SALOEN! NOW

Frozen in Time - Dr Kevin Blockley - Carrara marble

Target Atlas - Glenn Ibbotson - Acrylic on Paper

Nina Simone - Dominic Castree - Acrylic on Board

Serendipity - Pauline Thomas - Acrylic on canvas

SERENDIPITY

Off the Walls’ Summer Show.

SUMMER SALE NOW ON!

The Old Probate Registry, Cardiff Rd, Llandaff, Cardiff CF5 2DQ. T : 029 20554469 E : art@galleryoffthewall.com. Open Tuesday–Friday 9.30-5.30 Sat 10.00-4.00 www.galleryoffthewall.com

ARTS

T H E AT R E

SHOW ME the WONDER

A new gig-theatre take on Roald Dahl’s dark stories for adults, Gagglebabble’s WONDERMAN promises grisly plots, thrilling twists and turns, and bags of wicked humour

By VELIMIR ILIC Photos by KIRSTEN MCTERNAN

I

n what would have been his centenary year, the Roald Dahl 100 juggernaut – 12 months of “gloriumptious treats and squiffling surprises”, celebrating the great Cardiff-born storyteller’s work and legacy – just keeps on rolling.

The latest addition to the itinerary is Wonderman, a brand new gig-theatre take on some of Dahl’s wickedly dark short stories for adults. Presented by multi-award-winning theatre company Gagglebabble, in conjunction with National Theatre Wales, it tells the story of a World War II RAF pilot who finds himself in a hospital bed, badly injured, slipping in and out of a world of dreams, hallucinations and nightmares, and down strange and unexpected corridors and rabbit holes.

Featuring sizzling original music performed by a live band, grisly plots, macabre characters, soaring imaginings and thrilling twists and turns, all shot through with wicked sense of humour, it promises to be a roof-raising spectacle, in true Gagglebabble style. Lucy Rivers and Hannah McPake, the creative geniuses behind the company, tell us more…

So, the obvious question, just to clear this up: Wonderman is Roald Dahl, right?

Yes! His first-ever published story, A Piece Of Cake, was an autobiographical account of his experiences as an RAF pilot during World War II, when he had a terrible crash in the desert. He cites this monumental bash on the head as being the trigger for his creative writing – this is the main story we tell. ‘Wonderman’ also refers to his talent for writing and creating wonderful stories.

What unique qualities do you think Daf has brought to this?

Daf is a brilliant writer and collaborator. He has an anarchic and playful sense of humour and is really able to move audiences.

WE LOVE DAHL’S DARK

HUMOUR AND LARGERTHAN-LIFE CHARACTERS – HE HAS AN AMAZING ABILITY TO GRIP READERS

What was it about Dahl’s stories for adults that particularly made you want to bring them to the stage?

We both love Dahl’s dark sense of humour and larger-than-life characters – he has an amazing ability to grip readers from start to finish. We like making theatre that is macabre and playful, and we thought our use of music and song would be a unique and fitting approach for his stories.

The script for Wonderman has been written with awardwinning writer Daf James – how was it conceived?

We have always worked with Daf as a dramaturg, and thought he’d be perfect to write the script and lyrics – we’re all big fans of 30 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Roald Dahl. The three of us chose the stories we wanted to use and came up with a way of linking them together. The adaptation was conceived quite early on – once we decided that Dahl was at the heart of the play as the central character, we worked to fit the stories around his journey.

Wonderman is a gig-theatre performance – can you give us any clues about what the production will look and sound like?

We start off with Dahl as the injured RAF pilot in hospital, drifting in and out of consciousness.

His dreams are populated by some of the more famous characters from his adult short stories – a sinister landlady, a downtrodden housewife, a naïve vegetarian, and a man with a penchant for gambling body parts! There is also a cracking live band and some great numbers. We’ve tried to match our style to Dahl’s writing, and it’s a feast for the eyes and ears.

How long has it taken you to put the show together? Are you happy with how it’s turned out?

We started developing the show two years ago, and have been working with the Roald Dahl estate quite closely to make sure we create a show we are all happy with. Thanks to a brilliant creative team and great musicians and performers, the stories have really come to life.

We’re really proud of what we’ve created.

You’re performing this in Edinburgh as we speak! How’s it going down?

We’re having a great time! So far, the audience response has been lovely, and people seem to be enjoying our take on Dahl’s stories.

Finally, sell Wonderman to us in five words…

Vibrant, twisted, musical Dahl stories!

Wonderman is at Tramshed in Cardiff from 13-18 September. For more info, see nationaltheatrewales.org or gagglebabble.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 31

WHITE CHRISTMAS “Sparkle in the Snow”

ALL INCLUSIVE

PARTY NIGHTS

At Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel and Spa. Available throughout December

FROM JUST

£45

PER PERSON

CARDIFF'S ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS PARTY VENUE IN 2016!

 Stunning glitz and "sparkle in the snow" atmosphere  Arrival cocktail  Delicious 3 course festive dinner with coffee and mince pies  Unlimited lager, beer, cider, house wine and soft drinks included*  Christmas novelties  Boutique Disco - bringing the ultimate in DJ, entertainment, photography and fun! *T&C's apply

BOOK EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

Call our Christmas team now on 02920 435 002 or email h6622-sb1@accor.com Mercure Cardiff Holland House, 24-26 Newport Road, Cardiff, CF24 0DD

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU OVER THE FESTIVE SEASON! Christmas Season Menu Available 2 courses - £22.00. 3 courses - £26.00

Christmas Party Nights - £34pp Our Christmas Party nights are Friday and Saturday throughout December but we can organise any other night for private parties of 50 plus guests.

Includes 3 course meal, half a bottle of wine per person and DJ / disco until 1 am.

Please see our website manorparc.com for more information and to view our menus.

We look forward to celebrating the festive season with you.

THORNHILL RD, THORNHILL, CARDIFF, CF14 9UA 02920 693723. enquiry@manorparc.com

WWW.MANORPARC.COM

Celebrate A FUTURE INNS Christmas

Celebrate in Style...

at future inns...

Christmas Disco Party Nights from £27.95pp

Have a Cracking Christmas Day Kids £22.00 | Adults £45.00

at Thomas Restaurant...

see the New Year in...

Christmas Dinner or Lunch Party from £13.00pp

with style at Future Inns Kids £17.00 | Adults £35.00

Swing into Christmas...

Saturday 17th December - £31.95pp

Live performance from James Loughlin as seen on BBC National Lottery

Future Inn Cardiff Hemingway Road, Cardiff CF10 4AU 029 2048 7111 | www.futureinns.co.uk meetings.cardiff@futureinns.co.uk

INNS

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3

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IMPULSE BUYS CARDIFF’S INDIE RETAILERS CHOOSE FAVOURITE ITEMS FROM THEIR OWN STOCK

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1. BY A WHISKER

2. TEA UP!

3. BLOWIN’ IN THE WIND

4. GOING CHEEP

5. BOWL IN ONE

Peekaboo canvas tote bag, £10 “This screen-printed natural canvas tote bag has been made by us,” says The SHO’s Emily Michael. “We love cats!”

From The SHO, Castle Emporium, Womanby St, Cardiff; thesho.co.uk

Dodgy & Gabalfa mug, £5.99 “This makes me smile,” says ILTD founder Christian Amodeo. “It’s a bit of fun, intended as a celebration of a sometimes maligned area of Cardiff.”

From I Loves The ’Diff (available online) ilovesthediff.com

Hortelano voile fabric

by Clarissa Hulse for Harlequin, £96 per metre “This light, dip-dyed fabric is embellished with small sequins,” says Gail Jones from Haus. “It’s three metres wide, so no joins.”

From Haus, 6C Heol-Y-Deri, Rhiwbina; haus-cardiff.co.uk

Hummingbird necklace

by Rosita Bonita, £89 “Rosita has a pervading sense of dreamy fun,” says Anne. “Her printed leather statement jewellery is both nostalgic and novel.”

From Anne Morgan Jewellery, 10 Glebe Street, Penarth; annemorgan.co.uk

Batik platter, £125 “We love this handmade glass platter,” says Hamptons co-owner Andy Bradshaw. “The colour is hand-applied during the mouth-blowing process, so each piece is unique.”

From Hamptons, 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth; hamptonspenarth.co.uk

34 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

6

ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING

7

8 10

9

6. LIGHTING-UP TIME

7. TRUE COLOURS

8. PETAL POWER

9. CHOC, STOCK & BARREL

10. BOXING CLEVER

Curiousa & Curiousa pendants, from £270 “Free-blown glass is a fascinating, centuries-old technique,” says Pad Deco’s Penny Allen. “The pendants are available in a plethora of colours, too.”

From Pad Deco, 35 Castle Arcade, Cardiff; paddeco.com

Art print from Rifle Paper Co, £27.95 “This is fun and colourful,” says Nest’s Anna Knight.

“We also have their prints of Monaco, Havana and the Grand Canyon.”

From Nest Vintage Living, Brook House, 2 Heol-Y-Deri, Rhiwbina; nestvintageliving.com

The Avalanches Wildflower album (CD £9.99, LP £19.99) “The Avalanches finally follow up 2000’s innovative debut Since I Left You with this feelgood gem,” says Spillers’ Ashli Todd.

From Spillers Records, 27 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff; spillersrecords.co.uk

NomNom ‘Love’ super salted caramel milk chocolate, £4.50 “Produced in west Wales, NomNom offer an array of wonderful and unusual flavours,” says Rossiters’ Ann-Marie James.

From Rossiters, 33 Royal Arcade, Cardiff; rossitersofbath.com

Pyramid storage boxes

by Korridor, from £15 “These stylish and quirky wooden pyramid boxes are designed in Denmark,” says DD’s Debbie Sweet.

“We love the clean lines of these storage pots!”

From Dear Doris, Albert Road, Penarth; @ShopDearDoris

www.mediaclash.co.uk II CLIFTON CARDIFF LIFE LIFE II 35 www.mediaclash.co.uk 69

I N T E R I O R S a d v e r t isi n g f e at u r e

Affordable Oak Flooring Having accrued years of experience in the industry, proud husband and wife team David and Rowanne Shewring recently opened M Flooring Ltd in Pontyclun

H

aving accrued a wealth of specialist knowledge in the wood flooring industry over a period of many years, husband and wife team, David & Rowanne Shewring were delighted to launch M Flooring Ltd in Coedcae Lane, Pontyclun in recent months (check them out at www.mflooring.co.uk).

Specialising in premium grade hardwood floors, David uses his product knowledge to source the best timbers from worldwide sources - needless to say, all ethically produced from sustainably managed forests. David informs us that unless a product gets four "yeses" for sustainability, machining quality, finish and superb value for money then it won't make their range. M Flooring offer an in-house, hand finishing service, in addition to their other prefinished flooring ranges, which they inform us, allows them to supply an almost limitless range of colours & tones. In their experienced opinion, oiled finishes are usually preferable to harder lacquers & machine finishes, and are a lot more forgiving towards bumps and

bruises, and natural wear and tear.

When asked why they set up on their own in such a challenging business climate, Rowanne replied that the answer was simple, M Flooring recognise that whilst there are plenty of expensive High Street Boutiques out there selling overpriced hardwood flooring, along with countless cheap garage lock ups with a website (none of which can show you decent areas of their product prior to purchase), there was very little choice when it comes to buying quality wood flooring at affordable prices. From the sourcing of the timber through to the installation in their clients’ homes, everything is overseen by David’s critical eye and no job is finished until the customer is entirely satisfied. He explains that choosing a floor is probably one of the biggest choices a home-maker will make; get it right and it'll look fantastic for generations, get it wrong or skimp on one aspect and it can become an expensive disaster. M Flooring also offer a range of premium laminated & vinyl floors, for areas were real wood might not be appropriate, or the budget isn’t quite justified.” CL

Tel: 01443 520020 Email: info@mflooring.co.uk Web: www.mflooring.co.uk

Beautiful handmade kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and more....

t: 029 2023 3308 www.chalkhouseinteriors.co.uk 3 Bessemer Close Workshops, Cardiff CF11 8DL

SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

STRIPE A LIGHT! Step into AW16 with flair at St David’s Cardiff by channelling a style that slims and tones – embrace the stripe!

W

hether you’re a fashion front-runner or prefer a muted monochrome palette, the versatility of stripes means that anyone can easily rock this trend. They work on any item, meaning you can feature stripy accents throughout your wardrobe.

As we approach autumn and the nights get cooler, a killer cover-up is the essential wardrobe staple. The stripe brigade has taken hold of outerwear, from elegant jumpers to longline cardigans, so remember, however you dress to keep warm, you’re sorted. We love the Vivienne Westwood Princess coat – perfect for wrapping up in style. With wide stripes, it’ll pair prettily with your winter wardrobe without looking overly busy.

Stripes is a look that transcends dress codes, so you can easily work it into both your casual and formal looks. For a more relaxed vibe, we recommend L.K. Bennett’s Harpa striped dress, available at John Lewis, but if you’re going all out, Coast’s Kobe Print Dakini dress is stunning, with uniform distressed stripes offering an edgy but elegant feel.

If you still don’t fancy going full-on stripe, an accessory is the ultimate way of emulating the trend. One of our favourites is the Mulberry scarf from John Lewis – chic and understated, it offers instant Parisian fashionista-cool.

All items available at St David’s Dewi Sant in Cardiff at the time of writing. To keep up to date with the latest trends, news and offers, see St David’s on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@StDavidsCardiff), or online at stdavidscardiff.com 38 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Green Stripe Victoria Dress, £785, Vivienne Westwood

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1. Kobe Print Dakini dress, £159, Coast 2. L.K. Bennett Harpa striped dress, £225, John Lewis 3. Princess coat, £415, Vivienne Westwood 4. Ailette textured stripe dress, £180, Reiss 5. Interwoven drawstring sweater, £49.99, Mango 6. Mulberry preppy stripe silk square scarf, £195, John Lewis 7. Striped fold blouse, £285, Vivienne Westwood 8. Off-white stripe sneaker, £275, Kurt Geiger 9. Striped jumper, £85, Karen Millen 10. Radley triagonal multi-way bag, £99, John Lewis www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 39

FOOD & DRINK W H AT ’ S M A K I N G T H E G O U R M E T N E W S I N C A R D I F F

(Left) Zoe Adjonyoh, founder of Zoe’s Ghana Kitchen; (Below) Pizza, Dusty Knuckle-style – both are part of Cardiff’s Street Food Circus pop-up

CAFFIS CULTURE A new book, Caffis Cymru, gives a taste of 50 exceptional cafes in Wales Across the country, there’s a wealth of cosy, cool and quirky cafés to suit everyone’s tastes. But behind every teapot and cafetière, there’s a treasury of personal stories, anecdotes and snippets of local history, as detailed in the new Caffis Cymru book (£6.99, Gomer Press), which celebrates 50 of the best cafés in Wales – including popular Cardiff hangouts Caffi Bodlon in Whitchurch and Canna Deli in Pontcanna, amongst others.

“Welsh cafés in their various guises have been meeting points and great social hotspots for many years,” says the book’s author Lowri Haf Cooke. “And in recent years, we’ve turned back to independent cafés, tearooms and artisan coffee. As I discovered on my travels, there’s a new cross-pollination, too – the café-restaurant-deli-bakery-bar. So, reach for a cuppa, relax, and arrange your own whistle-stop tour of cafés in Wales!”

FEAST DAYS

For more: gomer.co.uk

There’s no keeping the team from Street Food Circus down, it seems Not content with just organising and delivering their latest street food pop-up event (which runs until 24 September at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff ), they’ve stepped up the food offer to include Feast Clwb, a members-only Thursday dining club with one-off celebratory dinners made by local and national culinary talent, including Dusty Knuckle (1 September), Anand George (8 September), Wright’s Food Emporium (15 September) and Zoe’s Ghana Kitchen (25 September).

“We love getting together around a table for a feast!” says Street Food Circus founder Simon Thomas. “So we thought Feast Clwb would be the right platform to bring some of the cooks and chefs we respect out of the kitchen and into the field to create one-off dining experiences under canvas, going the extra mile to deliver a memorable meal.”

Feast Clwb runs until 25 September. For menus and booking info, see streetfoodcircus.co.uk

TALL TALES Strange goings-on over in north-east Wales...

Order the Squid & Sospan’s seafood gumbo at your peril...

We wouldn’t usually report on goings-on in Rhyl, as you know, but this story was just too bizarre to ignore. A 71-year-old man has had what can only be described as an extraordinary growth spurt while eating at a local restaurant.

According to The Bulletin, Ifan Jenkins was halfway through a seafood gumbo, when his legs began to lengthen, sending him

crashing up through the ceiling, alarming fellow diners at the Squid & Sospan. The retired bus driver came to a halt several seconds later, but not before he had breached the restaurant’s roof, startling a seagull and severely grazing a magpie.

Whatever next?

For more: bulletin.cityoftheunexpected.wales

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 41

42 I cARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Society Standard With its industrial loft-style setting, cool ingredients (hello, dukkah!) and its own beer, brewed on-site, this newly-opened independent bar and kitchen on Cardiff’s Whitchurch Road is seriously ‘now’

By E L I SA BE T H M A HON E Y

L

et’s deal with the name first. Cardiff’s foxiest new independent eaterie is called Society Standard. I know, I know. It’s the sibling of successful Bristol venues The Urban Standard and North Street Standard – a family of Standards, if you like. But the Welsh outpost’s name is just plain clunky. “I’m going to Society Standard,” I tell friends. “You’re what?” they reply, bewildered. I’m a bit too embarrassed to say it again.

This bothers me no end before we dine there, but things change very quickly when we do. It is a seriously gorgeous venue: vast, sexy, all exposed brickwork and exposed everything, really. “Let’s do our house like this!” I purr to my husband, fantasising about cool, graffiti/Banksytinged artwork in an industrial loftstyle setting with bare wires draped everywhere, bi-fold doors that open out onto the gorgeous vista that is, er, Whitchurch Road, and an open kitchen full of minions knocking out relaxed, modern dishes to suit every mood.

It’s mobbed, mid-week, soon after opening, and it’s not hard to see why.

I struggle to think of a more ‘now’ place to eat: you can name-check the hardcore cool ingredients on the menu (yes, people, rest easy: dukkah is on there and you can barely move for pulled pork options); the staff are uniformly beautiful and friendly; it features locally-sourced produce but doesn’t shout about it; it’s ultrafamily-friendly but there’s enough space between tables so you don’t feel you are eating at a kindergarten; it promotes craft beer. This restaurant has a bearded soul and rides a fixie.

Except, it thinks of itself as a bar, despite the fact that when we visit, every single table is eating. This means no reservations, and no table service, both of which are very de jour trends, and very annoying. Call me old-fashioned: I like a reservation. I like putting them in my diary and smiling at them. It takes ten minutes to get served when

THIS PLACE HAS AN INSTANT CHARISMA, BUZZ AND VIBE – IT

MAKES WEDNESDAY FEEL LIKE FRIDAY

we want to place our food order. I end up chatting to a chap about his attempts at home-brew while I queue: all very entertaining, but I’d rather have been sitting with my husband at our table. There is then a quite inexplicable wait on our three starters, none of which take much cooking: 45 minutes in, and I’m thinking about mugging neighbouring tables for food. With no table service, this limbo feels quite alienating, as if we’ve been entirely forgotten. I think about ordering some bread and oil, but that means queuing again. Instead, I count the buses that trundle past.

Fortunately, when the food does arrive, the basics are sound. Our starters include a courgette pakora, which just needed slightly hotter oil to crisp up a little more, or less resting time on the pass; slow-roasted Mojo pork with devilishly good black beans, and delicious monkfish and prawn scampi with Baja sauce and a sweet, rich pea salsa. My husband’s Double Standard beer, brewed on site, is extraordinarily good: malty and deeply caramel yet aromatic and refreshing.

Mains follow swiftly, and they’re really good. The menu tilts towards feel-good, simple staples – comfort food with ambition – and there are some glorious highlights.

Truffled mac ’n’ cheese with added pulled pork is filthily good: a trough of carby comfort food with a rich, deep, thick crust we ever so slightly fight over. A half-rack of pork ribs is equally stunning, sat atop beautifully sharp and sour pickled cabbage and served alongside spiced skinny fries I could eat forever. The ribs are moist, rich and sweetly moreish, and I eat them happily and messily while reading the breakfast/brunch menu. Reading one menu while you eat from another; the sign of a true glutton.

We share a dessert: a sticky toffee sundae, which somehow loses the best of sundaes (too heavy) and the best of sticky toffee pudding (that moment when the warm sauce meets pudding), but is still a fine, sweet concoction that we wolf down. I look around and realise that, despite wanting to be a bar first and foremost, this is a neighbourhood restaurant catering to young children and grandparents, and just about everyone in between. It has an instant charisma, buzz and vibe. “It makes Wednesday feel like Friday,” I jot down on my notepad. That’s always a good thing.

DINING DETAILS Society Standard, 79-81 Whitchurch Road, Cardiff CF14 3JP; Tel: 02920 611556, societystandard.co.uk Opening hours Breakfast served Mon-Sat 10am2pm & Sun 10am-12.30pm; main menu available from noon-10pm (Sun-Wed) and noon-10.30pm (Thurs-Sat) Prices Starters from £4.50, mains from £7.95, most puds £4.95 Vegetarian choice Plenty on offer; vegan and GF options, too Kids welcome? There’s a brunch and main kids’ menu for under-10s Drinks Local craft beers are the stars here Service/atmosphere Friendly and relaxed

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 43

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E H E A LT H & W E L L B E I N G

ALL SMILES! DR VIDA KOLAHI, Principal Dentist at CATHEDRAL DENTAL CLINIC, in Pontcanna, tells us a little bit about the practice...

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e have proudly been a dental clinic for over 50 years and over the last nine years have further expanded and developed to the fabulous clinic that we are today. Located on Cathedral Road in the leafy suburb of Pontcanna, we are easily accessible for all Cardiff residents and en route for commuters to the city centre.

My team of associate dentists, specialists, dental surgeons, hygienists, nurses and administration staff are all highly trained, and are always ready with a big smile to welcome you and guide you through the most pleasant of dental experiences.

Whether you’re attending for a routine examination, scale and polish or a complex treatment with the implant surgeon, we will

Dr Vida Kolahi

ensure that your visit is as smooth and as comfortable as possible.

We work with you to reach the highest level of excellence in oral health whilst at the same time achieving your perfect smile.

What makes Cathedral Dental Clinic different from other dental clinics?

At Cathedral Dental Clinic, we strongly believe in providing high-quality dentistry in a calm, relaxing and professional environment.

We offer a complete range of general and cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics and dental implants using the latest equipment, products and technology.

Our experienced clinicians and friendly staff will provide you with a five-star service to make you feel comfortable and confident about discussing your dental needs or treatments that you may require.

We also work closely with many of Cardiff’s large and small corporate companies, enabling them to offer their staff members and their families reliable and affordable dental care and treatment, via our Corporate Oral Health Campaign.

The Campaign stems from the importance we place on maintaining good oral health, and ensuring that treatment can be made readily available to everyone as and when they need it.

Who is eligible for your Corporate Oral Health Campaign?

All local businesses, employers and management teams that are conscious of the

importance of their employees’ well-being can benefit from offering our Oral Health Campaign.

As a trusted local clinic which offers immediate and superior dental care, employers can rest assured that their staff are in safe hands with us.

We already work closely with Admiral, Cardiff University, Blake Morgan and Fusion Point, to name just a few, and we can adapt our campaign to suit your company’s needs.

It is free to join and funded entirely by our clinic, and includes discounted private check-ups, free emergency appointments and concessions for general and cosmetic treatments.

My development co-ordinator is readily available to introduce the campaign along with its benefits to you. After all, a healthy workforce is a happy one!

To find out more, please contact Cathedral Dental Clinic Email: info@cathedraldentalclinic.com Telephone: 02920 382671 Website: www.cathedraldentalclinic.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 47

HOT, HOT, HOT! From artisan food producers to boutique craft stalls, everyone loves a pop-up – but what about a pop-up fitness class? We’re talking hot yoga, the global health trend that’s made its way to the Welsh capital

By SOPH I E R A E

REGARDLESS OF ,

YOUR LIFESTYLE HOT YOGA aims to make you betterequipped to tackle it

Align those chakras, people!

H E A LT H A N D BEAUTY

I

f you’re part of Cardiff’s yoga community, you may well remember Liz and Aaron Cousins’ launch of Hotpod Yoga in January this year – a 20-person inflatable studio, heated to 37 degrees, scented with aromatherapy essential oils, low-lit with a moodenhancing purple glow and with cool, mellow beats to add an interesting background edge. Now, thanks to a permanent home at Cardiff Central Sports and Community Centre, located off Ocean Way, the husband and wife duo are offering classes seven days a week.

The unique, immersive sessions are aimed at every body and mind. Chatting to Liz before my first class, it’s clear that the pair are passionate about using hot yoga to tackle life’s everyday stresses. “We all know today’s yoga stereotype – the bendy, beautiful Instagram goddesses, the green juice guzzlers and the kale crunchers,” says Liz. “We call them the ‘perfection chasers’ and they comprise about 1% of our population.

We wanted to find a way to open up hot yoga to the other 99%.”

Armed with only a towel and bottle of water, the glow of the pod is certainly enticing. Despite the initial wave of heat that hits you as you enter, your body quickly acclimatises to the temperature; it’s not until you’re transitioning through your fifth

Ooh, we feel their pain

Hot yoga is “designed for real life and real people,” says Hotpod Yoga’s Liz Cousins

vinyasa of the flow that you notice the beads of sweat running down your neck.

Following Aaron’s calming, mellow tones, the one-hour classes offer a mixture of beginners, intermediate, nurturing and dynamic flows. If I were to rate my flexibility level, I’d say I was more ‘squidgy doughnut’ than ‘bendy pretzel’, but the class allowed me to work at my own level through an active and passive flow of postures, with Aaron offering hands-on adjustments to deepen my poses and check alignment.

Despite the guaranteed holiday heat, this is not the time to don your neon bikini. Aim for breathable layers that dry quickly, so you don’t have to drive home with a soggy bottom – a pair of workout leggings, sports bra and a vest did me fine.

After just one class, my quest to master the headstand has intensified tenfold, with a steely determination that sees me stop, drop and tip my behind in the air whenever I pass a cushioned surface. But that’s the joy of yoga – the playful competition you set yourself to reach higher, twist further and stand stronger. It’s what guides you to your mat, even on those cold mornings when you’d give your right arm for another hour under the duvet.

“Every life is improved by being more flexible, relaxed and strong,” says Liz as we emerge from the pod, both with a beetroot blush on our cheeks and glistening with sweat. “Regardless of your lifestyle, our yoga aims to make you better-equipped to tackle it. Hot yoga stretches out the office hunch, releases the cyclist’s hamstring, revives the partied-out festival-goer and re-aligns the childbearing arm. This is yoga designed for real life and real people.”

It’s seriously addictive. So, if you can take the heat and are looking for a new fitness challenge, it’s time to align your chakras, breathe deeply – and get ready to do a whole load more washing. CL A single-class pass costs £8, a five-class pass is £35, a ten-class pass is £60 and an unlimited monthly pass is £55. Download the app (search Hotpod Yoga) for an easy way to book and cancel sessions and buy class passes. Hotpod Yoga, Cardiff Central Sports & Community Centre, Beignon Close, off Ocean Way, Cardiff CF24 5HF; Tel: 07908 659992; hotpodyoga.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 49

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GIRL ABOUT TOWN

ANDREA BYRNE News a nchor

The GREAT ESCAPE This month, Andrea finds herself locked up in a cell – what on earth has she been up to?

T

his last month, I got sent to prison [You’re fired – Ed]. My friends were there, too, as we had all got ourselves into this mess together. Locked in a pretty grim cell, we were unsure how long it would be before we got out.

Rest easy. This is not an exclusive admission that I’ve broken the law and been put away at Her Majesty’s pleasure. But neither am I lying – we were locked up… in Alcatraz, one of the games rooms at the brand new Xscape Reality in Cardiff (more on page 75), a 21st century take on Channel 4’s 90s game show The Crystal Maze.

In this version, you and your mates choose an escape game room and are given an iPad. Thinking outside the box – or cell, in our case – you have to unlock a series

Andrea at Xscape Reality with Dave Clarke, Mariclare Carey-Jones, Sian Pond, Jonathan Watkins-Davies, Lee Byrne and Carl Edwards

of puzzles and clues to escape. No spoilers allowed – that’s all I’m going to tell you. But it is great fun, and there are a load of other cool games rooms to choose from.

Having been released from jail, I decided to complement my new-found skills of puzzle-solving and logic with some physical ones by heading to a show where only those at the peak of their fitness dare to compete – ITV’s Ninja Warrior UK! I should verify at this point that, rather than competing, I was merely observing with my 7 and 11-year-old nephews.

Although I know it would have made their day to see Auntie Andrea fail at the first obstacle and bomb ungracefully into the water, to my relief the furthest I had to go to be part of the entertainment was to enthusiastically wave a giant foam hand and scream “Beat the wall!” a lot!

The mini ninjas – aka nephews William

Andrea and family grab a selfie on the beach

YOU HAVE TO UNLOCK A SERIES OF PUZZLES AND CLUES TO GET OUT and Thomas – then spent the weekend in Wales in the sunshine. I know those two words don’t often get used in the same sentence but we have actually been blessed with several days of wonderful weather recently. So, naturally, it was a weekend of cream teas and beach walks with dogs Hank and Marcy. Bliss!

Oh, and it also gave me a chance to show off my tentative but successful venture into the world of gardening. Yes, something has grown and no, it hasn’t died – yet. For me and gardening, this is the equivalent of an Olympic gold; at the very least, it deserves ninja recognition – weeding those nettles is fraught with danger.

The hottest wave of weather actually came, in fact, once husband Lee and I decided it was a good time to head abroad for a summer break (that’s what being stuck in jail does to you!). This isn’t the first time heatwaves have arrived in Wales when we have headed off on hols – but what I draw from this is that we should be forced to go away more often, as it means everyone left at home is guaranteed a sunny snap! So… where next?

Follow Andrea on Twitter: @andreabyrnetv, or at andreabyrne.tv

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 51

DECK the HALLS Yes, it’s only September, but that works Christmas do won’t book itself, you know – make merry and party the night away at these five local hotels

By K AT I E K I SSOON

There’s a flurry of festive party nights at St David’s Hotel & Spa – feeling Christmassy yet?

CHRISTMAS PA R T I E S

Jingle-tastic: Party on at Park Plaza’s Laguna Bar

YOU HAVE BEEN READING The Bear Hotel 63 High Street, Cowbridge; bearhotel.com Celtic Manor Resort Coldra Woods, Usk Valley, Newport; celtic-manor.com Park Plaza/Laguna Bar Greyfriars Road, Cardiff; parkplazacardiff.com St David’s Hotel & Spa Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay; thestdavidshotel.com Vale Resort Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan; vale-hotel.com

The 400-year-old Hensol Castle at the Vale Resort

A

h yes, the Christmas party – as much a part of the festive season as the John Lewis Christmas advert, boozy eggnog and unwelcome relatives.

We know it seems faintly ridiculous to be thinking about Christmas in the middle of summer, but this is the optimal time to get that Christmas party in the diary. Imagine how smug you’ll feel as December approaches, with everyone else descending into blind panic after invariably leaving it too late to book a venue.

As usual, the region’s hotels are offering an embarrassment of merry riches. Park Plaza Hotel (and its Laguna Bar) has various party nights and packages (see parkplazacardiff.com for all dates) – its Gala Extravaganza includes a Kir Royale cocktail on arrival and three-course menu (and midnight snack!), then you’re free to party after dark at its fashionable Kuku Club downstairs.

There’s a host of spectacular Christmas party events planned at the Vale Resort in Hensol, too, which will once again be hosting parties at its 400-year-old Hensol Castle building, and inside the Resort itself. This year, the Castle will host the returning Masquerade Ball (9 December), with four-course Christmas dinner, a seven-piece band playing Rat Pack classics and disco, and a Top Of

The Pops night (17 December), where you can sing and dance the night away to classic hits, from years ago to the present day. Guests can make a night of it and enjoy the Resort’s luxury four-star accommodation, including a full Welsh breakfast the next morning.

Even Christmas refuseniks might appreciate Celtic Manor’s glitzy, themed Yuletide party nights, including a glamorous Black Tie Extravaganza and, new for 2016, the Winter Wonderland night (various dates for both), with an indulgent gourmet feast included, of course. There are plenty of other options for family meals (Willy Wonka afternoon tea? Count us in!) and seasonal getaways, too.

And there’s more than one way to celebrate the festive season at the plush St David’s Hotel & Spa, from a flurry of festive feasts to various special events. If you’re in the mood for dancing, there are exclusive tribute and party nights (Ultimate 80s, anyone?) taking place throughout November and December. Or, for the ultimate in indulgence, the hotel’s Tempus at Tides restaurant will be serving a range of five-star festive lunches, dinners and afternoon teas.

Last but not least, The Bear Hotel in Cowbridge is planning its own party nights – choose from Abbaholics Night (15 December – the clue’s in the title), or The Last Bash (23 December), your last chance to see the festive season out with a bang before the big day, with a three-course meal and resident DJ. See you on the dancefloor, yes? www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 53

St John’s College, Cardiff

A leading independent day school for boys & girls aged 3–18 Choir School to Cardiff Metropolitan Cathedral

The Best A Level Record in Wales over 17 Years

Estyn Inspection - ‘Excellent’ including the seldom awarded ‘Excellent’ for Standards of Teaching Nursery & Infants

l

Juniors

l

Seniors

l

Sixth Form

Please contact Admissions to arrange a visit:

02920 778936

www.stjohnscollegecardiff.com

Charity No. 701294

OPEN

SESAME

If you’ve got a Year 6-er at home, chances are you’ll be navigating up to half a dozen open days/ evenings this autumn. Mum-of-four ROXANNE DURIS offers her guide for parents on what to look out for – and you can mark your calendar with the help of our handy list of essential dates

56 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

E D U C AT I O N

T

ake it from one who’s been there and got the leaver’s hoodie (actually, four of them): looking around a school is not unlike looking around a house for sale. It’s been cleaned, tidied and styled to win your approval. For vases of peonies, think walls of neatly-handwritten World War I diaries; instead of plumped-up pillows, it’s about perfectly stacked gym mats; the smell of fresh coffee is, in this case, replaced by the smell of that pink powder they clean the floors with. Here’s how to make the best of a school open day . . .

HEAD TEACHER’S SPEECH

(Opposite page) Sixth-formers take a stroll at Cathedral School; (Clockwise from above) Mid-lesson at Kings Monkton School; impressive footy skills from this young man at Monmouth School For Boys; Haberdashers’ girls share a joke

All schools effectively say the same thing. If you don’t believe us, select any of their marketing claims, e.g. “We focus on the individual child’s potential” and consider how likely it is that any school, ever, would say the opposite, i.e. “We churn out robots” – it’s what the journalist Simon Hoggart called “the law of the ridiculous reverse”.

So when it comes to the head’s address, focus not on their words but on their manner. Do they have natural authority and confidence? Do they seem to mean what they say? Are they reading from notes without making eye contact, or speaking from the heart? Your child has to respect, defer to and – preferably – secretly rather like this person for years to come. How do you see that panning out based on what’s before you?

LEAGUE TABLES

Neither as indispensible nor as nonsensical as their fans/detractors would have you believe. The most important figures are the value-added and expected progress figures for that year. Don’t get

hung up on last year’s exam results. Look at the past three years. Blips happen; year groups differ when it comes to volume of high-achievers.

LOOK AT THE NUMBERS

If you’re going down the private school route, do find out how many students are actually on the books in each year group. In other words, is this school successfully weathering the recession and going to be around at least for the duration of your child’s education?

TALK TO THE TEACHERS

Sounds obvious, but in the maelstrom of tours, talks, handouts and the obligatory PTA cup of tea, many of us ignore the assembled ranks of teaching staff standing on the sidelines. Have a chat with them.

Genuine warmth and intelligence can’t be faked.

STARE AT THE TEACHERS

Do they seem to get along well with each another?

Look for clues as to their relationship with the head, too, as usually this is where schools succeed or fail: does it seem a happy relationship, or do they all scarper when he/she approaches?

TALK TO EXISTING PUPILS

Often these are deployed to accompany parents on guided tours. And they’ll answer your questions honestly – provided no teachers are within earshot, of course... Drug problems? Bullying? General attitude to learning? Best/worst teachers? You should get the full, unedited truth from a kid’s perspective. So brace yourself.

TALK TO OTHER PARENTS – A BIT

School gates opinions are likely to be reliable, so ask the opinion of anyone with children already w

GET THE

FULL UNEDITED TRUTH FROM A KID’S PERSPECTIVE

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 57

Independent day school for boys and girls 2½ to 18

01656 789966 info@stclares-school.co.uk www.stclares-school.co.uk Newton, Porthcawl CF36 5NR

LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE FOR SEPTEMBER

E D U C AT I O N

attending your favoured school. But not all parents get equally fired up about the same issues, so your own instincts should always take priority.

SNOOP AROUND

Find a darkened room and poke your head in to get a view of what the classrooms normally look like.

This is the school open day equivalent of sneaking a look at the cupboard under the stairs in a house you’re thinking of buying.

GAUGE YOUR CHILD’S RESPONSE A budding artist at Howell’s School in Llandaff

Did the school spark anything in them? Did they talk about it on the way home in the car? Were they still raving about it days later? If so, it’s a great sign – and, I think, the most important!

OPEN DAY ROUND-UP C AT H E D RAL S CH O O L

ST J OHN’S COLLEGE

WES TB OURNE SCHOOL

Independent school for boys and girls aged 3-18 Cardiff Road, Llandaff, Cardiff CF5 2YH Tel: 02920 563179, cathedral-school.co.uk Whole School Open Morning (Nursery to Sixth Form): Sat 1 Oct, 10am-12:30pm; Sixth Form Options Evening: Thurs 13 Oct, 5-7pm; Open Afternoon for Year 7 Entry 2017: Fri 25 Nov, 2-3.30pm; Nursery, Infant & Juniors Sections: Weds 15 Feb 2017, 9.30-11am & Tues 9 May 2017, 9.30-11am; Senior Section (Years 7-13): Weds 29 March 2017, 9.30-11am

Day school for boys and girls aged 3-18 College Green, William Nicholls Drive, Cardiff CF3 5YX Tel: 02920 778936 stjohnscollegecardiff.com For lower years, parents should contact the school to arrange a visit on an individual basis; Sixth Form Open Evening is on Tuesday 18 October at 5.30pm

Co-educational school for ages 3-18, with a long tradition of academic excellence Hickman Road, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan CF64 2AJ Tel: 02920 705705 westbourneschool.com Open days: Contact the school’s Admissions Manager directly to arrange a visit

H AB E RDAS H E R S’ MO NMO UT H SCH O O L F O R GI RL S 1 1 - 1 8

Happy pupils at Westbourne School in Penarth

Independent boarding and day school Hereford Road, Monmouth NP25 5XT Tel: 01600 711100, hmsg.co.uk Open days: Friday 7 & Saturday 8 October HOWELL’S SCHOOL

Llandaff-based school for boys and girls aged 3-18, and boys aged 16-18 Cardiff Road, Llandaff, Cardiff CF5 2YD Tel: 02920 562019, howells-cardiff.gdst.net Open days: Thursday 29 September, 1.30-3.30pm; Whole School Open Afternoon, Saturday 15 October, 9am-2pm; Whole School Open Day/College Taster Day/Year 5 for Year 7 Taster Day: Thursday 9 February 2017, 1.30-3.30pm KI N G S M O N KT O N SCH O O L

Welcomes children of all abilities aged 3-18 6 West Grove, Cardiff CF24 3XL Tel: 02920 482854 kingsmonkton.org.uk Open day: Thursday 6 October M O N M O UT H S CH O O L FO R B OYS 1 1 - 1 8

Boarding and day school, renowned for its academic, sporting and musical achievements Almshouse Street, Monmouth NP25 3XP Tel: 01600 713143 monmouthschool.org Open days: Friday 7 & Saturday 8 October

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 59

E D U C AT I O N a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

Accelerate your career at Cardiff Business School The Executive MBA programme at cARDIFF BUSINESSS SCHOOL is designed to help you gain knowledge, enhance your professional performance and realise your career potential

C

ardiff Business School is a worldleading academic institution noted for its research and teaching excellence. Currently ranked sixth in the UK for research quality and joint first for research environment (REF 2014) our academics are working at the forefront of their disciplines, and directly translating that research to class-based teaching.

Recently, the Cardiff Executive MBA (EMBA) programme held a networking and information evening. This was an opportunity to celebrate the current eMBA cohort prior to graduation, and share insights and knowledge with prospective participants.

Dr Maneesh Kumar, EMBA Programme Director, spoke extensively about the scale and impact of the EMBA programme, highlighting the success of past graduates and the career boost they have experienced.

Professor Martin Kitchener, Dean and Head of Cardiff Business School, told attendees of the School’s exciting and bold new Public Value strategy – a commitment to delivering social improvement alongside economic improvement. The new ethos influences and informs the School’s teaching, research and engagement, directing these activities to helping solve the grand challenges in today’s society.

This distinctive interdisciplinary approach places Public Value at the heart of what we do and benefits both our students and the wider community.

Our bespoke offering

We have offered an EMBA for more than 20 years but are constantly reviewing and updating

60 I Cardiff LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

the programme to ensure it remains ahead of the field and relevant to contemporary business realities.

The EMBA runs for 28 months with 13 modules taught in three-day blocks. Your class colleagues are an important part of your learning experience. Class sizes are small enough to ensure that you benefit from the time and attention of programme leaders but large enough to provide a dynamic and diverse cohort to learn with and from. They will also become the foundation of a rich extended network of business links.

Our programme is designed to provide you with the knowledge and tools to enhance your professional performance and help you to realise your career potential and aspirations. It is a challenging programme but you will gain the breadth of knowledge and confidence needed to work right across any organisation, to have a strategic influence and to effect change.

Participants come from a wide range of professions and backgrounds. Most recently, our cohorts have included medics, pharmacists, dentists, finance managers, lawyers and policymakers. The programme offered them the opportunity to solve real life business dilemmas, gain knowledge and insight from internationally renowned academics, industry experts and leading business practitioners. Modules are thematic and look at the variety of business functions, from marketing and operations

management to corporate finance, sustainability, organisational behaviour and leadership.

Limited places are available for September 2016 – join us now and take your career to the next level.

Scholarships closing 29 August Professor Richard Whipp Scholarship £4,000 (Public sector manager) Cardiff Business School Scholarship £4,000 (Private sector manager) We require a minimum of 3 years' relevant managerial experience and a second-class undergraduate degree (OR no degree but substantial work experience)

Apply now: Contact Cecile Boutrou, Executive MBA Course Administrator Email: BoutrouC1@cardiff.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0)2920 675130

More adventures in party-going

Philip Gross, winner of the Roland Mathias Poetry Award

SNAPPED! AC ROS S CA R D I FF, O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

ON THE WRITE TRACK The Wales Book of The Year awards ceremony was recently held at The Redhouse in Merthyr Tydfil. Winner of Wales Book of the Year 2016 (English Language Award) was Thomas Morris, for We Don’t Know What We’re Doing (Faber & Faber), his debut collection of short stories.

For more: literaturewales.org Photos by Sioned a Nia Photography (sionedania.com)

Thomas Morris with English Language Award judges Justin Albert, Professor Tony Brown and Caroline Sanderson

Elwyn Jones (Welsh Books Council), Helgard Krause (University of Wales Press) and Mick Felton (Seren Books)

Kathryn Shaw, Richard Ward, Caitlin Anderson and Nicola Lewis from Creo Cardiff

Caryl Lewis (Welsh Language Fiction Award winner) with Welsh Language Award judges Llion Roberts, Huw Stephens and Lleucu Roberts The audience shows its appreciation for the winners

62 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Gruffydd Aled Williams, winner of the Wales Welsh-language Creative NonFiction Award

SOCIETY

Jon and AnneMarie Saunders

WATCH IT! Watches of Switzerland and luxury watch brand Rolex held an exclusive exhibition and dinner evening for invited guests at Cardiff Castle, to showcase the recent launch of Rolex’s latest timepieces.

For more: watches-of-switzerland.co.uk Natasha and Lee Hembury

Adrian Harries, Anita Qin, Sam Warburton and Martin Robertshaw

Andy and Yvonne Wilmot

Adrian Harries, Nathan Palmer, Lindsey Doyle, Craig and Alexandra Elizabeth Smith

Nicola and Simon Moon

Bryan and Abbie Long

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 63

SOCIETY

THE SPLICE OF LIFE VIP guests got a first look at Cardiff’s new and exclusive luxury bridal boutique, Pritchard and Moore in Whitchurch, where all profits go to Cancer Research Wales.

The store’s name comes from two longstanding Cancer Research Wales trustees and eminent research scientists, John Pritchard and John Moore, who have both contributed enormously to cancer research in Wales and beyond.

Liz Andrews (director, Cancer Research Wales), John Pritchard, John Moore and Ruth Wignall (patron, Cancer Research Wales)

For more: pritchardandmoore.co.uk Photos by Huw John (huwjohn.com)

Hannah Beadsworth, fundraiser at Cancer Research Wales

Sara Milburn, Hywel Morgan and Nicola Wright

Laura Leon and Kasia Jones

Hannah Morgan and Rachel Morgan with Pritchard and Moore manager, Alison George

64 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Louise Morgan, Rebecca Proctor and Laura Anderson

Rachel Marsh and Hannah Beadsworth

We are excited to be one of the first to offer SculpSure

TM

-Taken the USA by Storm - FDA approved - No Downtime SculpSureTM is a non-invasive body contouring system for the reduction of stubborn fat in areas resistant to diet and exercise.

Utilising the most advance LASER technology with none of the unpleasant side effects associated with fat freezing! FDA Approved - The 25 minute procedure destroys 24% of treated fat cells permanently without surgery Treat any part of the body | Works on all skin types | NO DOWNTIME! Established since 1998 Cellite Clinic is one of UK’s most experienced Medical Laser and Skin Clinic.

For more information visit: www.cellite.co.uk Cellite Clinic Ltd, 52 Charles Street, Cardiff, CF10 2GF. Tel: 02920 644 644

SOCIETY

HAMMING IT UP

Champion ‘ham master’ Jose Sol

Cardiff’s Marriott Hotel welcomed Spanish ‘ham master’ Jose Sol to give a lively demonstration of his award-winning jamon carving.

Jose, who travels the world giving specialist masterclasses and has trained some of the top chefs in the UK, dropped into the four-star Marriott to chat with guests, who were invited to test their skills under the champion carver’s watchful eye.

Fiona Hawthorn and Tom Cockayne

For more: marriott.co.uk, spanishhammaster.co.uk

Helen Ward, Lydia Whitfield and Julia Sim

Chun Ho Cho, Liz Beynon and Nick Clements

David Menendez and Paul Smolinksi

Tracey Smolinski, Joan Davies and Catherine Maunder

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SOCIETY

PROST! Cardiff’s Bierkeller entertainment complex celebrated its first year in the city with a VIP birthday party. Guests were treated to live music from its resident oompah band, bubbly and a selection of canapés from the new ‘Around The World’ menu.

For more: thebierkeller.com/cardiff-bar

Steve Moore (NHS) and Glyn Mottershead (Cardiff University)

Mike Leeson, Paul Williams and Caitin Hoey (Golley Slater)

Alex Mills (Dynamo Cover), Richard Evans (Concierge Cardiff), Tom Daniels (Juno Moneta) and Cassandra Bodington (Action Coach) Mark Holvey, ‘Tonker’ (both Tata Steel), Ed Williams (BT) and Steve Holvey (Tata Steel) Rachel Kinsbury (Best of Cardiff), Sue Morris (Autism Directory), Bethan Davies (Best of Cardiff)

Jane Cook (Hungry City Hippy), Pete Gee (Wales Cancer Research), Lee Eynon, Sarah Duke (both Fuud Blog) and Christian Amodeo (I Loves The ’Diff)

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Shake-ups/launches/successes/promotions

CA R D I FF G E T S S ER I O US

Momentum is already starting to build for the 2017 Cardiff Life Awards – will you be a winner this time?

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS: KEY DATES 10 17 31 27 16

Nov: Nominations open Nov: Early Bird tickets on sale Jan: Finalists announced Feb: Finalists’ reception March: Awards night!

“WE’RE THRILLED TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO REPRESENT SHERLOCK AT THE EMMYS IN LA…”

THE BIG STORY

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS: UPDATE Key dates have been revealed for the 2017 Cardiff Life Awards – and a new shoulder event added for finalists only The all-important nominations open on 10 November and companies are encouraged to start marshalling their cases – there are 12 Top Tips on the new Awards website (cardifflifeawards.co.uk) to help create a winning entry.

A limited number of Early Bird tickets go on sale on 17 November.

Last year, these were all quickly snapped up and Awards night itself reached a record attendance.

Finalists will be revealed on 31 January, which has become a major time of celebration, with the Awards trending on Twitter for last year’s reveal.

The new event for 2017 is a finalists’ reception on 27 February, to be held at Park Plaza Hotel’s Kuku Club. The aim is to give finalists (and event sponsors)

a chance to meet each other before the big Awards night at City Hall on 16 March 2017. Park Plaza’s Laguna Bar has also been confirmed as the venue for the after-show party on Awards night.

Commenting on the announcement that Cardiff Airport is to be headline sponsor for the 2017 Awards, the airport’s MD and chief operating officer Debra Barber said: “The Cardiff Life Awards have increasingly become a very prestigious means of showcasing some of the best businesses in the local area.

“As the capital city’s airport, we have very close connections with our local businesses and feel this is a great opportunity to be involved in next year’s event as headline sponsor. We look forward

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

to building a strong working partnership with Cardiff Life in the coming months as we build up to the Awards, and of course to celebrating with the winning businesses at the event in March!”

Our initial roster of category sponsors already includes Cardiff Blues, Stills, Parkhouse, Chapel 1877 and Capital FM. For sponsorship enquiries, please contact Andy Baker: andy.baker@ mediaclash.co.uk. We are also keen to hear from companies and organisations who have services or products to showcase via the Awards. For more info, please contact Steph Dodd: stephanie. dodd@mediaclash.co.uk.

For more: cardifflifeawards.co.uk, @CardiffLifeAwds

Sherlock?? Wowzers!

Which cool Cardiff company is mixing it with the stars?

Find out on page 75…

230% THE BIG NUMBER

Which Cardiff PR company’s profits have increased by 230% over the last three years?

Turn to page 75 to find out…

Got a business news story for us? Email vel.ilic@mediaclash.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 73

Refurbed/defurbed office space 101 Cardiff is attracting lots of interest

BUSINESS PROPERTY

CONCRETE COOL With prime office space in short supply, MARK SUTTON of Knight Frank takes a look at how one Cardiff office building is leading the way with ‘defurbed’ working space in the heart of the city The way that tenants use office space and the environments they create to attract and retain staff is constantly changing. This search for a more flexible and inspiring place to work has led the landlords of one Cardiff city centre building to take a different approach.

When Golate House on St Mary Street was acquired in 2013, the building was tired and needed investment. The landlords embarked upon a refurbishment approach first seen in buildings in London’s creative heartlands of Shoreditch and Clerkenwell. So, gone are the traditional suspended ceilings and carpet tiles; instead, the rebranded 101 Cardiff building now offers a stripped-back approach that exposes its concrete fabric to create a striking and very cool working environment.

Top of the range fittings and LED lighting are balanced with 74 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

recycled feature lighting from Eastern Europe, while the highquality German carpet used features a design also used on Google’s HQ in London. And the toilet block has been totally demolished, rebuilt and fitted out with hotel-quality fittings and new showers; it’s clad in Austrian timber, too, with seamless joinery to create a floating feature.

Knight Frank, Savills and Anthony Phillips have been appointed to jointly market the first two floors, each offering 6,450 square feet. With the refurbished space on offer at rates well below the latest new buildings being developed nearby, 101 Cardiff is already attracting a flurry of interest. Get in quick!

For further details, see 101cardiff.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIDER BREAKING NEWS

TRIPLE WHAMMY

1

Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing and important local business stories happening right now…

BOOM! SHAKE THE ROOM The award nominations continue to pile up for BAFTA-winning special effects company Real SFX, who have been nominated for an Emmy – alongside Cardiff and London-based visual effects people Milk VFX – in the ‘Outstanding Special Visual Effects In A Supporting Role’ category, for their work on the Sherlock 2015 special, The Abominable Bride.

“We are honoured to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award alongside Milk VFX,” said Real SFX founder Danny Hargreaves. “As a

Cardiff company, we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to represent Sherlock at the awards in LA [on 16 September]. Real SFX provided a combination of many different effects for The Abominable Bride, including explosions, fire and atmospherics. I am very proud of my team and all of the production team involved in the series, and I’d like to congratulate Benedict Cumberbatch [up for Best Leading Actor] and all the other nominees.”

Special effects company Real SFX are up for an Emmy for their work on Sherlock, starring Martin Freeman and Benedict Cumberbatch

For more: realsfx.com, milk-vfx.com

A NEW CHAPTER

ITV Wales’ Andrea Byrne with husband Lee Byrne (right) and Xscape Reality manager Curtis Wade at the venue’s recent launch

2

XSCAPE TO VICTORY A new escape room offering a completely immersive experience has opened its doors in Cardiff, creating 15 new jobs. Overlooking St. John Street in the city centre, the newly-launched Xscape Reality is set over two floors and spans 4,300 square feet. Players are invited to take on any of six themed escape rooms, where they are faced with a series of challenges and mysteries to solve in order to escape in 60 minutes.

“We’ve significantly invested in each game and have gone overboard on quality theming to a level which will exceed expectations,” said manager Curtis Wade. “Cardiff stood out as the perfect destination for one of Xscape’s very first venues. It’s a vibrant, fun and cosmopolitan city and we look forward to welcoming more visitors.”

For more: xscapereality.com/cardiffcity

Independent PR agency Working Word is aiming for client, service and revenue growth following a recent management buyout. The deal for the Cardiff and London-based agency sees existing directors and shareholders Dan Tyte and Caroline Holmes acquire the business from founder Eoghan Mortell, who will stay on as associate director, using his experience to work with key clients and pursue growth opportunities.

Under the new structure, Dan takes up the role of MD, while Caroline becomes operations director, with each having an equal stake in the company. Both joined the agency in 2007 and have been central to its evolution. Over the past

three years, the company’s profits have increased by 230%, supported by a client list which has doubled to over 50 organisations.

“Working Word is a brilliant business filled with creative, clever people that make a real difference to some great organisations,” said Dan. “The future of the PR industry is an exciting place, as technology continues to transform how people communicate with each other.

“We’re determined to be at the forefront of this and are in the perfect place to take advantage of the opportunities for growth in revenue that this presents.”

For more: working word.co.uk

3

Working Word’s Eoghan Mortell, Caroline Holmes and Dan Tyte

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BUSINESS INSIDER

THE BIZ Q&A

RICHARD WARD

Richard Ward: “We work with some truly fantastic clients”

The director of successful fullservice creative/digital agency Creo in Cardiff

FORWARD THINKING LUX & LEARN

In a nutshell, what services does Creo offer?

We’ve been building websites since 1999 and have just continued to grow from there. Creo now offers in-house services which cover all aspects of brand, digital and strategy.

In business, you can afford a few little luxuries, says team-building guru ANDREA CALLANAN, founder of inspireMe

What does your job entail?

My role is pretty multi-faceted, however my main job is to look after the day-to-day running of the company: attending client and team meetings, ensuring that the team is working efficiently and that we continue to grow as a business.

As an agency, what makes Creo special?

We have a very strong digital team as well as an extremely creative team. Combined, we can work with clients to develop their entire marketing strategy and ensure that each element works together seamlessly.

How’s business at the moment?

Excellent! We are continuing to win new, exciting projects and are working with some truly fantastic new clients.

What has been your favourite project to work on so far?

I enjoy working on projects that use technology to increase productivity or improve the user’s experience. Building Blocks, for example (buildingblocks.org.uk), is an online tool that makes lesson planning simple for teachers and provides detailed monitoring of pupils and classes for schools.

How did you get into this industry?

Almost by accident! I was working as an interior architect in Cardiff and had set up an online visitor portal for Cardiff called NetCardiff with my now business partner Andrew Ashton. Whilst visiting venues to advertise on the portal, we were asked if we could build websites for the individual venues.

The rest is history…

down-to-earth personalities – you could imagine just having a drink and a chat down the pub with either of them.

Greatest professional achievement to date?

Probably seeing how Creo has grown as a company, having started the business with two people from a home office, to now owning our current building and employing 17 staff.

How important is social media to your work?

Extremely important – we use it a lot.

Any career ambitions left to fulfil?

Only to ensure the future success of Creo as an agency and maintain our growth plan.

Favourite place for business lunch or dinner in Cardiff?

I do enjoy a good steak and I’ve yet to find one better than at Miller & Carter.

What do you do in your spare time?

You’ll find me in the gym before work, three mornings a week. In the evenings and at weekends, I enjoy relaxing with my wife and family at home or catching a film at the cinema.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

The variety that every day brings, meeting new people and coming up with creative ways to solve a problem.

Finally, surprise us with a little-known fact about yourself…

At university, I shared my first student house with fashion designer Julien Macdonald.

Who do you admire most in business?

Richard Branson and Henry Engelhardt. Both have built hugely successful businesses, but have pretty

For more: creo.co.uk, @hello_creo

76 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Let’s be honest – running your own business is hard work and is not for the faint-hearted.

But I have some luxuries that others don’t. Now that the business is established, I have more choice over when and where I work. And my team have far more ‘flexi’ than they would if they worked for a different organisation.

People can also work from home pretty much any time they need to. I enjoy the luxury of choosing the customers we work with, too – we work with organisations we feel aligned with, which makes the whole business experience easier and more productive.

I’m proud to provide a space for folk who can fulfil their passions alongside their careers. We have the luxury of excitement, too, whether it’s working with sexy brands, the odd global team-build or a motivational talk. Variety is absolutely crucial in keeping our brains stimulated.

Entrepreneurism and working for small organisations isn’t for everyone, but the luxury of flexibility wins out for me every time. So, what’s your luxury in the workplace? If you don’t have one, just create one – and see how much better you feel about work when you do! inspireMe are a Cardiffbased engagement company that offer UK-wide creative team building and training. For more info, see andinspireme.com

F I N A N C E a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

Meet the IFA That’s Independent Financial Advisor to you and me – three of Cardiff’s finest tell us about their specialisms, why they love their jobs and typical clients

David Stealey

Senior Financial Planner and Managing Director, Romilly Financial Tel 02920 415100 www.romillyifa.com What do you specialise in?

Advice and strategies to build wealth, save tax, protect assets and reduce costs for individual clients and businesses What does your role involve?

Mostly meeting with new and existing clients, updating knowledge, writing reports and making the tea! Oh, and running Romilly Financial.

What is the biggest misconception surrounding what you do?

We only deal with wealthy people.

What is your proudest recent accomplishment?

Becoming accredited by the Society of Later Life Advisers.

What’s the best bit of your job?

Seeing clients happy.

What are your biggest frustrations?

Financial apathy.

What advice would you give someone looking to become a financial advisor?

Give us a call!

Tell us something about yourself...

I’m not very good at saying no!

78 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Gavin Kingsley

Niche Chartered Financial Planners Tel 01633 859555 www.nicheifa.co.uk What would you recommend when choosing an IFA? Someone who listens, to make sure they really understand your situation.

They should also be realistic; any advisor who promises unrealistic investment returns should be avoided.

Lastly, they should be transparent.

All costs of the advice and any ongoing service should be given to you prior to it being conducted, and all work should be explained to you in such a way that you can understand it.

What is your favourite aspect of the job?

Having worked as a radiographer for 18 years, I have always liked helping people. I really enjoy meeting new people, getting to know them and working with them to achieve their goals. I can honestly say that some of my clients have become good friends.

Who is your typical client?

As a company, Niche specialises in pensions and retirement planning.

However, I wouldn’t say that we have a typical client; they come from all walks of life, and we are able to offer a tailored service to meet individual needs, including investments, mortgages, tax and IHT planning, and protection.

Megan Dacey Grayling; Tel 0117 910 6360 www.grayling.com Marcus Rees Senior Financial Planner & Director, Romilly Financial What does PR mean to Tel 02920 415100 you, in a nutshell? www.romillyifa.com PR is a constantly evolving, 24/7 business, and no day is thespecialise same. For us, What do you in?this means that one moment you are Pensions – including final salary transfers. working on one of the biggest events in the UK, and the next arerole managing a crisis What doesyou your involve? across media/social media, or Listening and understanding what popping to a fashion shoot. clients are trying to achieve.

an Agency what stands What is theAs biggest misconception you apart from surrounding what you do?the others? has sevensalesmen! offices That we are Grayling all sharp-suited UK-wide and a global presence so proudest we have a real local agency What is your recent feel but we are also part of an accomplishment? means network. This Passing my impressive pension specialist exam. we¹re as adept at local PR as arebit at communicating What’s the we best of your job? on the nationalinteresting and international Meeting so many peoplestage. and This gives our clients the ability helping them achieve their goals. to tap into an unrivalled network professionals. of PRbiggest What are your frustrations?

My inability to play golf like Rory What’s the best project McIlroy! you’ve ever worked on?

We’ve worked What advice would youwith giveSt David’s Cardiff for number ofa years someone looking toabecome – it’s incredibly rewarding and financial advisor? fun, and alwaysatops list of The hardest part is building clientthe base, favourite so establish as many projects. contacts We andrecently and cult with St professional worked connections asDavid’s you can.

I Loves Theand ‘Diffconsider on an Work on yourbrand telephone skills eventintothe celebrate the city, and purchasing leads early years. it was fantastic. It was amazing to see how excited the public Tell us something about yourself... celebrities such as Huw I’m hopeless– and at telling people Stephens from Radio 1 – were something interesting about myself. aboutI’m it. boring?

Does that mean

Voted best small chain in UK Cefn Coed Road, Cyncoed

£1,200,000

A unique opportunity to offer this detached property located on one of the most sought after roads in Cardiff and within walking distance to Roath Park.

Built in 1910 this attractive five bedroom property appropriately named “Twin Gables” has stunning features which really gives this property it’s striking individual appeal. This charming property has plenty of character and with the original features and abundance of space this package makes a stunning home. The property is set on a generous well maintained private plot, perfectly suited for the growing family and even allowing potential to extend further on its original footprint. To the front there is a long sweeping driveway adding extra privacy with hard standing to rear for several cars and garage.

No Chain.

Cyncoed: 02920 761999 • Detached five bedroom house • Substantial plot • Character & original features • Garage • Driveway/No Chain • EPC Rating - F

Colchester Avenue, Penylan

£499,950

An impressive and unique ‘Tucker’ built five bedroom semi detached double fronted residence, positioned in a favoured avenue within Penylan, within close proximity to Roath Park recreation ground and gardens. This elegant and classically decorated abode boasts many of its original features and has been sympathetically modernised providing an exquisite balance of originality and modern day living. Entered via an original wooden panelled and stained glass door you are welcomed by a grand entrance vestibule with doors leading to a bow fronted study, 27ft living room/dining room leading to a veranda, chic kitchen, pantry, lobby area with wc and utility area on the ground floor, four bedrooms and stylish bathroom on the first floor and a further bedroom and en suite on the second floor. Outside there is a block paved driveway leading to a garage to the front and a landscaped Southerly facing rear garden with lane access.

Roath 02920 484898 • Semi detached residence • Five bedrooms • Two reception rooms • Ensuite shower room • Driveway & garage • EPC Rating - E

Iestyn Street, Pontcanna

£320,000

Located just off Pontcanna Street in this sought after location is this stylish two bedroom, bay fronted terraced house. Contemporary decorated and superbly presented throughout this spacious abode offers open plan living space perfect for entertaining and is within close proximity of the vibrant café shops, restaurant and bars that are on it its door step in Pontcanna. The property offers a 23ft living room and a chic kitchen/dining area with French doors leading out onto a modern urban rear garden on the ground floor. Two bedrooms and a stylish four piece bathroom suite to the first floor. Further benefits include a boarded loft with a pull down ladder and skylight window, gas central heating and both the City Centre and Llandaff fields are also within close proximity. Offered for sale with no onward chain.

Pontcanna: 02920 344434 • Bay fronted terrace house • Two bedrooms • Open plan living • Sought after location • No onward chain • EPC Rating - TBC

www.moginiejames.co.uk

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

PEN Y GARN Steeped in history, this beautiful character cottage is framed by the wonderfully picturesque Brecon Beacons – it really doesn’t get much better

By K AT I E K I SSO ON

84 112I I CARDIFF CLIFTONLIFE LIFE I I www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

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PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

S

ituated in the breathtaking Brecon Beacons National Park, near the village of Llangynidr, just a few miles from Crickhowell, Pen y Garn’s bucolic setting is about as picturesque and beautiful as it gets. Surrounded by approximately 520 square miles of mountains and moorland, this vast space of natural beauty provides a wealth of potential leisure activities including outstanding walks, horse riding, water sports, cycling, fishing and caving – right on your doorstep.

The property itself – a pretty, historic detached house, formerly part of the Duke of Beaufort’s estates – is thought to date back to around 1600. Although it has been sympathetically extended and painstakingly renovated over the years, the inherent charm of this character cottage has been retained.

It has lots of space: on the ground floor is a sizeable drawing room, with stone-built fireplace (featuring a wood-burner and original bread oven) and picture windows with splendid views of the garden and valley beyond; and, further on, a large open-plan sitting room/ garden room with plenty of natural light.

The kitchen, meanwhile, is fitted with a bespoke range of oak units and granite worktops, plus integrated appliances and a central island with extra storage. There’s also a downstairs shower room, and all the ground floor rooms have Portland flagstones. Upstairs, you’ll find three bedrooms, all with uninterrupted views of the valley, and a modern family bathroom.

There’s even a large detached stone barn (previously used as a function room), with a wood store and electricity and water connected, and with lots of potential for alternative uses and conversions, subject to the usual planning permissions.

Pen y Garn also boasts delightful gardens with lawned areas, mature shrubs, bushes and seating/terraced areas, 86 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Painstakingly renovated and extended over the years, Pen y Garn has retained its inherent character and charm

HOUSE NUMBERS Pen y Garn, Dyffryn Crawnon, Llangynidr, Crickhowell

3

bedrooms

2

reception rooms

2

bathrooms

1

ideal for alfresco dining. And there’s decent parking, both between the house and the barn, and at the rear of the barn itself.

Ultimately, though, it’s the idyllic location that truly sets this place apart, so you can expect friends and family to be beating a path to your door from day one. You can’t blame them – who wouldn’t want to drink in those magnificent views every day?

large stone barn

£650K price

For more info, contact Savills, 12 Windsor Place, Cardiff CF14 1DJ; Tel: 02920 368930, savills.co.uk

Millwood Lisvane A truly capacious detached double-fronted four/five bedroom family sized modern residence, occupying a delightful position with large and lovely private rear gardens, backing onto woodland and approached by a wide private entrance drive leading to a substantial integral double garage. This impressive family home enjoys a quiet select location, fronting highly favoured Millwood, a cul-de-sac comprising distinctive detached dwelling homes each varying in design and appearance. Built in 1968 this deceptive property has been extended to provide versatile living space with the option of a granny/guest suite and a wonderful first floor sun room which enjoys a wide open view across the mature pleasing gardens and onto protected woodland behind. The ground floor living space is approached by an outer porch leading to a useful boot room and a spacious entrance reception hall with contemporary open tread staircase leading to a semi gallery landing. The principle reception rooms include a 23 ft lounge, a 20 ft formal dining room and a 17 ft family room which doubles as a fifth bedroom/granny suite equipped with an modern ensuite shower room. The stunning open plan kitchen and breakfast room is a generous 20’10 x 11’0 fitted in November 2013 and equipped with quality Maia work surfaces, beech block work tops, a Franke sink with rotaflow mixer taps and a stylish Rangemaster Professional Deluxe Range cooker.

There is also a downstairs cloak room with a stylish modern white suite, conventional cloaks hanging room, a utility room and a store room. The first floor which is both spacious and bright includes four double sized bedrooms, the master suite being a generous (20’3 x 13’4), equipped with a stunning ensuite shower room (11’3 x 5’7) and a walk in ensuite dressing room (11’3 x 5’9). The master bedroom leads into the relaxing sun room which commands a superb rear garden view. The guest bedroom includes an ensuite shower room, and off the main landing is a large bespoke family bathroom (11’9 x 8’10). The property also benefits from gas heating with panel radiators and a Worcester combi boiler annually serviced and fully installed with 13 radiators in October 2002. The windows are white PVC double glazed, replaced in June 2003 by a well-known local company (Thomas Wright), and there is a sophisticated intruder alarm (phone linked) and an Amtico floor within the entrance reception hall.

For sale with PA Black Llanishen Branch 02920 618552

£800,000

Cardinal Drive Lisvane A capacious detached double fronted six bedroom modern family residence, built in 1982 to a unique design and occupying a fine level corner plot with sizeable south facing landscaped gardens. Fronting a quiet residential cul-de-sac this magnificent property incudes PVC double glazed windows, gas heating with panel radiators and a conventional boiler installed just 18 months ago and annually serviced with British Gas, coved ceilings and white panel traditional internal doors. In recent years a 21 Ft PVC double glazed sun lounge conservatory has been added as well as the accommodation slightly altered to provide the facility for a granny annex suite with independent lounge, kitchen, and bedroom and ensuite shower room! For family needs, however, the property lends itself well to accommodate any large family providing a 26 ft sitting room, a 15 ft lounge, a conservatory, a useful and versatile snug and a well fitted open plan kitchen and dining room (25’10 x 10’1). There is also a separate utility room and a downstairs cloak room with a modern white suite. The first floor is approached by a returning staircase leading to a spacious landing with access further to a particularly sizable attic space. There are six double sized bedrooms, the master suite equipped with a walk in en-suite dressing room fitted with mirror fronted wardrobes, leading onto a spacious ensuite bathroom with a corner suite.

There is an en-suite shower room off guest bedroom two, equipped with new white fittings and additional features which would be of assistance to an elderly parent/ second generation living. Outside a private double width entrance drive leads to an integral garage, and the rear gardens are ‘L’ shaped continuing the full width of the property and extending to the side. Built with cavity elevations in facing brickwork, the upper levels finished in smooth render, all beneath pitched roof covering, this property provides 2800 square feet of space. This is a first class opportunity for a large growing family with possible needs for two generation living to acquire a supersized family home within a well-respected residential road in highly sought after Lisvane.

For sale with PA Black Llanishen Branch 02920 618552

£600,000

CARDIFF LIVES

Q&A

A

fter forming Davies Sutton Architects with business partner Kevin Sutton in 1993, Michael Davies has built a strong reputation for his architectural experience and expertise.

Along the way, he’s managed many projects, including the RIBA Award-winning restoration of historic Sker House near Porthcawl, and even been a telly presenter, on BBC series Discovering Welsh Houses. These days, he also lectures regularly on building conservation and design.

Where’s home and what makes it special?

I was born in Grangetown, brought up in Llanrumney, and I now live on Caerphilly mountain, but have always worked in Cardiff. Our offices are in Grangetown, so I have come full circle.

You’re director of Davies Sutton Architects in Cardiff, amongst other things – as an architectural practice, what is it that makes DSA special?

Most of our work comes from the heritage market – restoring old buildings, sometimes altering or extending them. But we also design new ‘highend’ buildings, particularly on sensitive sites, such as inside some of the castles of Wales.

What has been the most memorable architectural project you’ve worked on?

Sker House, near Porthcawl – a Grade I-listed Tudor house. It was in total ruin when I first saw it in 1989. The restoration won several awards and I am still working on the house today. It has been a lifetime’s project, but it’s a stunning place.

You were also the presenter of the BBC series Discovering Welsh Houses (and author of the associated book), a guide to 18 architectural gems across Wales – which was your favourite?

Sarn Badrig, near Harlech. It was commonly known as the ‘chocolate house’, as it was built by a member of the Cadbury family. It’s a very simple 1930s bungalow, well-detailed, with stunning views over the Irish Sea and a beautiful beach that seems to go on forever.

If you could get up on your soapbox about a particular issue, what would it be?

Referring to GB as England. For me, this is worse than the erosion of the Welsh language, slowly and systematically removing the Welsh nation from people’s consciousness.

How do you relax?

Walking and chatting with my wife, Pat. We have been best friends for 42 years.

Proudest life moment so far?

I have been lucky enough to experience many proud moments, but my most recent is being awarded the RIBA Welsh Architect of the Year 2014.

90 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

MICHAEL DAVIES The co-founder of Davies Sutton Architects on his time as a telly presenter, memorable projects and being addicted to Welsh cakes What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you?

Many years ago, after meeting a client in Pearl House, Westgate Street, the tallest building in Cardiff at the time, I was parked in the basement and accidentally punctured my petrol tank whilst trying to change a flat tyre. With petrol flowing everywhere, the whole building had to be evacuated and several large fire engines surrounded the building.

Which piece of music always sends a shiver down your spine?

Ave Maria by Franz Schubert. I first heard it at about ten years old. A woman was rehearsing when I was helping my father prepare the hall for a concert in our local church.

Dream dinner party guests?

Probably guests who would make me laugh, without being crude: Stephen Fry, Michael Palin and David Mitchell.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

Teleportation – no more traffic congestion for me!

If push came to shove, what would be your final meal of choice?

A bacon sandwich, with thinly sliced fresh tomatoes, in a lightly toasted ciabatta roll.

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Mark Rylance.

Guiltiest pleasure?

My mother always used to bake Welsh cakes when the family came around, and now I can’t pass up the smell of warm, fresh Welsh cakes, particularly at Cardiff indoor market.

What’s the most important lesson life has taught you?

To treat others as you would like to be treated.

What’s on your bookshelf at the moment?

Empire by Niall Ferguson, who also happens to be one of our clients. Also Meetings With Remarkable Trees by Thomas Pakenham, and Michael Caine’s autobiography.

Must-watch television programme?

Upstart Crow, The Durrells, Fake Or Fortune, and any of the David Attenborough series.

Best thing about Cardiff?

The Principality Stadium – having such a worldclass stadium in the centre of the city is unique and creates a fantastic experience for visitors and locals. It has raised Cardiff to another level.

Favourite shops in Cardiff?

The indoor market and the Apple Store.

Locally, where do you like to eat and drink?

When I’m in town, Carluccio’s – I like the light, relaxed atmosphere; and, away from the centre, Penylan Pantry.

Secret or favourite Cardiff spot?

Driving down Thornhill at night – there’s a fantastic panorama of the city all lit up.

Finally, surprise us with a little known fact about yourself...

I attended a De La Salle Brothers boarding school.

After two years, they decided I was ‘not suitable’, and asked me to leave.

For more: davies-sutton.co.uk

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