Cardiff Life – issue 160

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 160 / DECEMBER 2016 / £3

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

DON’T GET IN A CHRISTMAS FLAP!

ISSUE 160 / DECEMBER 2016 / FA-LA-LA-LA-LA-LA-LA

BRRR-ILLIANT LAST-MINUTE PRESSIE IDEAS INSIDE

What do penguins have for lunch?

Icebergers

It's a kneveees-up!

New year's wON’T PLAN ITSELF, YOU KNOW

INDULGENT DINING DREAM TEAM: WINTER MEAL SQUARED RECIPES TO WAR REVIEWED

M YOUR COCKLES

editor’s letter / Issue 160 / DECEMBER 2016

17

PRESENT AND CORRECT Last-minute Christmas gifts for all budgets, ages and preferences

Wrapper’s delight There are two types of Christmas shoppers: those who relish it, dedicating hours of thought and legwork into finding unique, personal gifts for their favourite people; and the refuseniks who avoid it and end up panic-buying Maltesers and cheap plonk on Christmas Eve. Either way, we have good news: just put yourself in the hands of Cardiff’s cool retailers, traders and artisans, and you’ll surely find something special for everyone on your present list. Our lastminute Christmas gift guide, starting on page 17, is crammed with great and gorgeous ideas to get you started. It’ll be fun, we promise!

We’re also serving up Christmas recipes with a difference (no turkeys here) for an indulgent feast at home; and, with party season in full swing, there are some useful tips on how to nail AW16’s key looks.

And don’t forget that nominations are now open for the unmissable Cardiff Life Awards 2017 (cardifflifeawards.co.uk), celebrating the very best of the city – see inside for more. So, have a brilliant Christmas – easy on the sherry, now – and we’ll see you here again in three weeks. Chin, chin!

Mwynhau miri’r nadolig Mae’r sawl sy’n siopa ar gyfer y Nadolig yn rhannu’n ddau grwp: pobl sy’n ei fwynhau ac sy’n neilltuo oriau di-ben-draw i feddwl a chwilio am anrhegion personol, unigryw ar gyfer eu hanwyliaid; a phobl sy’n ei gasáu ac yn ei osgoi ac sydd yn y diwedd yn prynu Maltesers a gwin rhad ar frys ar Noswyl y Nadolig. Pa grwp bynnag yr ydych yn perthyn iddo, mae gennym newyddion da ar eich cyfer: gadewch i fanwerthwyr, masnachwyr a chrefftwyr gwych Caerdydd eich helpu, a byddwch yn siwr o ddod o hyd i rywbeth arbennig ar gyfer pawb sydd ar eich rhestr anrhegion. Mae ein canllaw i anrhegion Nadolig munud olaf, sy’n cychwyn ar dudalen 17, yn orlawn o syniadau bendigedig i’ch helpu i ddechrau arni. Bydd yn hwyl, wir i chi!

Rydym hefyd yn cynnig ryseitiau Nadolig ychydig yn wahanol i’r arfer (heb dwrci) sy’n addas ar gyfer gwledd flasus gartref, a gan fod pawb wrthi’n paratoi ar gyfer eu partïon di-ri rydym yn cynnig ambell air o gyngor defnyddiol ynghylch beth sy’n ffasiynol y tymor hwn.

A pheidiwch ag anghofio bod modd enwebu busnesau’n awr ar gyfer Gwobrau Cardiff Life 2017 (cardifflifeawards.co.uk) sy’n clodfori busnesau gorau’r ddinas – mae rhagor o fanylion i’w cael yn y rhifyn hwn. Felly, mwynhewch y Nadolig (gan bwyll gyda’r sieri) ac edrychwn ymlaen at eich gweld unwaith eto ymhen tair wythnos. Iechyd da!

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

CONTENTS / ISSUE 160 / DECEMBER 2016

48

MAIN FEATURE 17 Christmas Gifts Wrapping paper, sellotape and gift tags at the ready – seven pages of Christmas gift inspiration

OPINION 13 A Man’s World Rhys and chums get their kit off Another whistle-stop month for our resident columnist

THE ARTS 48 What’s On

53 Film Preview Here come the girls!

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

SHOPPING 30 Fashion Wrap up warm, now

Get your primp on and nail this season’s key party looks

38 Let Off Some Steam

GOING OUT

DEPARTMENTS

64 New Year’s Eve

9 Spotlight

From Bowie tributes to Spanish tapas, Cardiff’s got it all going on

A look ahead to next year’s exciting arts adventures... and ’Diffagram goes large

BUSINESS

Stressed out with Christmas prep?

Unwind and recharge at one of the city’s luxury spas

81 Business Insider

FOOD

PROPERT Y

56 Restaurant

86 Property Showcase

Dining dream team Meal Squared

A spacious five-bedroom home in Ystradowen, near Cowbridge

58 Winter Recipes

How to win a Cardiff Life Award, Arts & Business Cymru, and more

A decadent three-course festive menu with a twist

69 Snapped!

Pics from parties large and small – were you there?

98 Cardiff Lives Award-winning silversmith, goldsmith and bespoke jeweller Neil Rayment

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.

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrate the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (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

On the cover Cuter than cute penguin ear studs

by Helen Noakes, available at Anne Morgan Jewellery in Penarth

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38

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, Jamie Rees, Katie Kissoon, 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

From The Borrowers to Handel’s Messiah, we’ve got Christmas going out covered

34 The Party Line

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

Advertising manager Mark George mark.george@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Claire Hawkins claire.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Ian Fernando ian.fernando@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Steve Hawkins steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk

43 Andrea Byrne

HEALTH & BEAUT Y

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

The Russian Revolution is coming...

Stewart Lee

Martha Wainwright

ARTS

CENTRE STAGE Not that we’re wishing 2016 away or anything, but we’ve had a quick glance at Cardiff’s arts calendar for 2017, and there’s plenty to get excited about...

First up is R17 (r17.wales), an nine-month season of performances and events by arts organisations in Wales, marking the centenary of the Russian Revolution. An extraordinary programme of works is planned, featuring the likes of Welsh National Opera and National Dance Company Wales, in venues such as Wales Millennium Centre, National Museum of Wales, St. David’s Hall, Sherman Theatre and others; even R17 patron Michael Sheen has promised to perform.

“With the Russian Revolution creating exciting, challenging art, and links with Wales fostered through early cultural exchanges, our partner organisations throughout Wales have a collective desire to explore the art of the period, and to commission and present new work inspired by revolution,” said R17 producer Laura Drane. “We can look forward to a high-quality season of arts and culture,

recognising the rich artistic period in Russia before and after 1917, which continues to influence many art forms and artists today.”

Another goodie to look forward to is the world premiere of major new Welsh musical Tiger Bay, at Wales Millennium Centre (wmc.org.uk) from 15-25 November, a tale of ‘survival, romance and atonement’. Produced in association with Cape Town Opera, and set at the dawn of the 20th century, at the height of South Wales’ coal trade, it will feature characters drawn from the melting pot of Cardiff’s famous docklands, including John Stuart, Third Marquess of Bute, played

by Welsh actor/singer John Owen-Jones – best known for his high-profile roles in The Phantom Of The Opera and Les Misérables.

There are high-profile music acts coming to Cardiff, too – folksy singer-songwriter Martha Wainwright (26 January, Tramshed)

calls in, to coincide with the release of her new album Goodnight City, a gorgeous, genre-hopping melange of jazz, funk and electronica; The xx (17 March, Motorpoint Arena), purveyors of shimmering pop introspection; beguiling French/Irish songstress Camille O’Sullivan (23 March, St David’s Hall); and indie behemoths Coldplay, of course (11-12 July, Motorpoint Arena), to name just a few.

And there are comedy big-hitters, too: Sue Perkins (26 February, Wales Millennium Centre), Russell Howard (13-15 March, Motorpoint Arena), Stewart Lee (26 March, WMC), Omid Djalili (11 May, St David’s Hall), and more.

All in all, another great year in prospect, but this is just for starters – stay glued to these pages throughout 2017 for more cultural adventures...

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

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Autumn trees at Fforest Fawr , near Caerphilly, by @walkingtheb order Intricate wire art from Beth Nicholls (@wiremaker cardiff), currently on dis play at @victoriafearn gallery in Rhiwbina

A snapshot of city life from Cardiff’s igers (Instagrammers) – just a few of the pics that caught our eye this month...

eir 2017 y with th get sauc s ilable at e lu va a _b – @cardiff calendar blues.com s w rO o F iff ong shop.card d Gruff #StayStr nd announce @swnissou Super e Th . ow sh Rhys’ new t Fire Se s hi ay will pl the Furries man undtrack to so s ar St e To Th Theatre on ew N s ff’ di ar 2017 film at C 28 January

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

A MAN’S WORLD

RHYS WILLIAMS Ou r ma n at Ca rdif f Blues

THE BIG REVEAL Rugby players are always happy to get their kit off, says Rhys – as long as it’s for a good cause, of course

T

he weeks before Christmas are always pretty frantic, but aside from the stress and panic of getting all the shopping done, we should remember that it’s meant to be the season of goodwill.

Cardiff is always a great place to be in the build-up to Christmas. In recent weeks, I’ve attended events for Breast Cancer Care Cymru, the Princes Gate Trust and the KidsOut charity, to name but a few – there are so many worthy campaigns and events going on out there.

At Cardiff Blues, we are no different.

We’re inundated with requests to support many worthwhile causes and we try our very best to do that however we can. But Cardiff Blues flanker Ellis Jenkins – don’t drop that ball!

one cause that always remains dear to us is the continued support of Owen Williams and the #StayStrongForOws campaign.

This month, we’ve launched the inaugural #StayStrongForOws calendar, and it is already proving to be a resounding success It was an idea driven by the players, but there were some apprehensive faces when it came to the actual photoshoot at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park, especially as it was a slightly chilly day! It’s quite risqué, but not on the level of the Stade Francais calendars – Google it [Er, don’t – Ed]. Ours has been done with a little more modesty!

The likes of Ellis Jenkins, Josh Navidi, Gareth Anscombe and Lloyd Williams all took

WE ARE SO GRATEFUL TO THE PLAYERS FOR REVEALING ALL BUT THEIR TACKLE!

part at various locations around our iconic home, and Steve Shingler even graced the hallowed turf. It was all good fun, and once the boys had got their pump on [Is that a technical term? – Ed] with the dumbbells they brought along and threw themselves into it, they really enjoyed it. Safe to say, the marketing girls left work with a smile on their faces that day!

But it’s a great gesture from the boys, which will hopefully raise vital funds and awareness for #StayStrongForOws. We are very fortunate in Wales that so many players support such a wide range of charities – I think their generosity is a reflection of how humble and close they are to the community.

But back to the boys baring all... it got me thinking about some of the brave and bizarre photoshoots I was made to do during my playing career. In my very first shoot, I ended up doing some topless poses – youth and naivety, eh? It was for a lifestyle feature in Wales On Sunday, and I stupidly got changed on set. Before I knew it, I’d agreed to take my top off. I didn’t think much of it, but they were pretty much the only shots used and I became the boys’ source of amusement for several weeks, with the photos reappearing from time to time over the next few years. If only I could speak to young Reebo!

I’ve also featured in a similar calendar as ‘Mr February’ for the Welsh Rugby Players Association. It’s not a surprise that some of the more well-built members had to keep their tops on so as not to offend the public. I won’t name names in black and white... but I have no problem letting you know in person!

There was one with a group of us by the side of Lake Ontario, while on tour in Canada, which thankfully never saw the light of day.

But perhaps the cringiest/funniest shoot was one we did for a Testicular Cancer Awareness campaign.

All seemed good and well; we were wearing t-shirts promoting the campaign and covering our modesty with our hands – happy days, great cause, job done. However, none of us twigged that we were on the second floor of the building. As we were leaving, I looked up and realised that thanks to the limited cover of the blinds, you could look up and see bare backside, and more!

But all of these campaigns are for such worthy causes, so we are very grateful to the players for revealing all but their tackle for Ows. It’s the perfect stocking-filler!

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 13

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XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

‘Peter Pan’ faux-fur collar, £38 Exquisitely soft faux-fur to suit any and every occasion – perfect for these cold winter days and evenings!

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

BUY, BUY, BABY Baby, buy, buy... Go on, admit it, you’ve left the Christmas shopping right to the 11th hour, as usual. Best take a look at our handy, last-minute gift guide, then...

www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.ukI I CARDIFF CLIFTONLIFE LIFE I I 17 1

XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

Culinary Concepts mussel eaters, £26.99 Oi, mollusc fans – a word in your shell-like...

From Shore, The Esplanade, Penarth; shorecoastal.co.uk

Ruby oxidised silver earrings, £95 Made by Anne herself, no less From Anne Morgan, 10 Glebe Street, Penarth; annemorganjewellery.com

Panettone Tradizionale, £16.95 (1kg) Who doesn’t love a good panettone at Christmas?

From Carluccio’s, The Library, 16 Mill Lane; carluccios.com

Espresso set by Keith Brymer Jones, £34.99 Everyone’s favourite potter From Hamptons, 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth; hamptonspenarth.co.uk

KitchenAid Artisan Nespresso, £349 Bring barista flair to your coffee From Kitchens, 14 High Street, Cardiff; kitchenscookshop.co.uk

Classic red trike, £107 With removable push handle and adjustable seat – the perfect first trike From Wonderlings; wonderlings.uk

Gold and black dress by MICHAEL Michael Kors, £175 Need a showstopping little party number? We’ve got your back From Michael Kors, St David’s, Cardiff; michaelkors.co.uk 18 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Gentlemen’s Hardware hammer multi-tool, £15 With various screwdrivers hidden inside the handle – job done!

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

XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE One Mile Bakery gift vouchers, £125 Who can resist freshly-baked bread? An OMB voucher buys you a full-day class, including a two-course lunch, plus lots of baking and recipes to take home. Various courses available, taught at the new Rhiwbina OMB by pro rugby player turned baker Nick Macleod From One Mile Bakery, Rhiwbina; onemilebakery.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 19

XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

Springer spaniel double oven gloves

by Leslie Gerry, £13.95 S-o-o-o-o cute!

From Kitchens, 14 High Street, Cardiff; kitchenscookshop.co.uk

Zip case, £23 It says ‘Au Revoir’ on the other side...

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

Doric bag, £180 You’ll be including flight tickets and a travel guide to go with it, naturally From Vivienne Westwood, 55 The Hayes, Cardiff; viviennewestwood.com

Giant tower, £62 Post-prandial family fun From Wonderlings; wonderlings.uk

School badge cufflinks, £12.99 Dig out your old head boy/girl badge to go with it From Hamptons, 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth; hamptonspenarth.co.uk

Canasta box set, £9.95 There’s rummy, cribbage and bridge, too From The Pen & Paper, 13-17 Royal Arcade, Cardiff; penandpaper.co.uk

Scandinavian Comfort Food, £25 Get used to it – hygge is here to stay From Waterstones, 2A The Hayes, Cardiff; waterstones.com

‘Milano’ pet feeders by Lord Lou, from £54 Christmas: not just for humans From Pad Deco 35 Castle Arcade, Cardiff; paddeco.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 21

XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

Bluebird salt and pepper shakers

by Hannah Turner, £20 Condiments get quirky From Rossiters, 33 Royal Arcade, Cardiff; rossitersofbath.com

Arrival soundtrack, £11.99 (CD), £24.99 (2LP) Gorgeous score from the film of the moment From Spillers Records, 27 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff; spillersrecords.co.uk

Cinematype print by Tom Pigeon, £12.50 (unframed) Inspired by the typography of early 20th century film From Home By Kirsty, 16 Castle Arcade, Cardiff; homebykirsty.com 22 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Jazz wine goblets, £49.99 (set of 4, boxed) Jazz. Hmm, grrrrrreat From Hamptons, 10 Ludlow Lane, Penarth; hamptonspenarth.co.uk

Cove by Cynan Jones, £9.99 & We Don’t Know What We’re Doing by Thomas Morris, £7.99 Welsh writing at its very best From Waterstones, 2A The Hayes, Cardiff; waterstones.com

Astier de Villatte candles, £65 Luxury scented candles capturing the heady aromas of emblematic places From Pad Deco, 35 Castle Arcade, Cardiff; paddeco.com

‘Let It Glow’ gift set, £24.65 bareMinerals comes up trumps again with this handy, party-ready pouch From Central Pharmacy, 63-67 Wellfield Road, Roath; escentual.com

Seville orange marmalade No. 3, £4.95 Soft-set, deliciously bittersweet, with hints of orangey caramel – we’re sold From Bodlon, Yr Hen Lyfrgell, The Hayes, Cardiff; bodlon.com

XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

Red velvet cupcake truffles, £11.95 Stocking filler du jour From Bill’s, 27-39 Wyndham Arcade, Cardiff; bills-website.co.uk

Penguin silver ear studs by Helen Noakes, from £75 Our cover stars – just adorable From Anne Morgan Jewellery, 10 Glebe Street, Penarth; annemorganjewellery.com

Bordeaux tartan tie, £65 Love that tartan geometric design – our editor’s go-to tie...

From Vivienne Westwood, 55 The Hayes, Cardiff; viviennewestwood.com

BeoSound 1, £995 Portable wireless speaker with 360degree sound, integrated access to Spotify and other cool features From Bang & Olufsen, 12 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff; bang-olufsen.com

Holiday 2016 scented hand creams, £17.50 A limited edition trio of wishworthy minis From Kiehl’s, St David’s, Cardiff; kiehls.co.uk

Copper bell table lamp

by Tom Dixon, £420 It’s not wrong to lust after inanimate objects if they’re as perfectly formed as this From John Lewis, St David’s, Cardiff; johnlewis.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 23

XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

Hypotrochoid art set, £6.50 For ‘hypotrochoid’, read Spirograph From The Pen & Paper, 13-17 Royal Arcade, Cardiff; penandpaper.co.uk

‘Blois’ silk scarf, £138 Yep, beetles are still a thing From Pad Deco, 35 Castle Arcade, Cardiff; paddeco.com

Basil & Neroli cologne, £86 (100ml) Oh-so-floral neroli, with a delicious wink of basil From Jo Malone, St David’s, Cardiff; jomalone.co.uk

Black Pepper eau de parfum, £54.40 (50ml) Typically sensual, intense fusion from Commes des Garçons From Central Pharmacy, 63-67 Wellfield Road, Roath; escentual.com

The BFG Spelling Games, £7 To amuse the kids on Christmas Day while you sleep off the sherry From Rossiters, 33 Royal Arcade, Cardiff; rossitersofbath.com 24 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Ombré Leather 16 eau de parfum by Tom Ford, £148 (50ml) Tactile and voluptuous From John Lewis, St David’s, Cardiff; johnlewis.com

ghd copper luxe gift sets, from £99 Great hair, sorted From Goji Hair, 6 Pontcanna Mews, 200 Kings Road, Pontcanna; gojihair.com

NomNom Espresso Martini chocolate, £6.50 Eat now, repent later From Rossiters, 33 Royal Arcade, Cardiff; rossitersofbath.com

Inflatable hipster beard and glasses, £4.99 Instant cool... or not From The Pen & Paper, 13-17 Royal Arcade, Cardiff; penandpaper.co.uk

SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

WINTER WARMERS Lashing rain, chilly winds and dark nights getting you down? Cheer up – you can wrap up warm, stay chic and dress with style this winter at St David’s Cardiff

Y

our coat will be the first line of defence this season, but a practical piece doesn’t have to be boring – it needs to make a statement! We adore the sumptuous faux fur coat by Karen Millen for a luxurious look. Team with skinny jeans, a polo neck (the fawn rollneck

by Vivienne Westwood is a great staple piece), and simple but stylish boots and you have an instant outfit to rival any fashionista.

And the right accessories are the perfect way to update your wardrobe. Team last year’s coat with a cosy collar or a plush scarf and you have instantly hit the refresh button – our go-to is the plush scarf from M&S. Another vital accessory this season is your footwear, and the adaptable fawn ankle boots from Micahel Kors are ideal for any occasion.

Knitwear can often be a difficult trend to rock – some can be too bulky, affecting your outfit’s silhouette, whereas others are too thin, meaning you don’t keep out the cold.

Take the time to pick the best option, and make it an investment buy – good quality knitwear can last years and is pretty much guaranteed to never go out of fashion.

Another thing to consider when buying knitwear is wearability – consider how your desired jumper will look with your favourite pieces. For our money, you can’t go wrong with L.K. Bennett’s Maura poncho (available at John Lewis), which offers sophistication with an edge, and is the perfect accessory to keep you warm this festive season.

All items available at St David’s Dewi Sant in Cardiff at 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 at stdavidscardiff.com 30 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Atticus coat, £420, and Xavier boots, £228, both by All Saints

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1. Faux fur coat, £350, Karen Millen 2. M&S Collection scarf, £39.50, Marks & Spencer 3. Fawn voluminous rollneck, £285, Vivienne Westwood 4. MICHAEL Michael Kors pom-pom beanie, £130, Michael Kors 5. Maura herringbone poncho by L.K. Bennett, £185, John Lewis 6. MICHAEL Michael Kors Infinity scarf, £65 7. Lerico reversible wool poncho (navy rust), £220, Hugo Boss 8. Fawn Bootie ankle boots, £220, Michael Kors 9. Meyer faux fur gilet, £250, Reiss 10. Johnstons of Elgin blue tartan scarf, £150, Vivienne Westwood www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 31

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GET YOUR PRIMP ON! Don’t be left unkempt for party season. Make an appointment now to nail AW16’s key party looks

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

HAIR & BEAUTY

WE ALL LIKE A BIT OF GLAM IN THE FESTIVE SEASON

(Opposite) Great Lengths hair extensions are the ultimate party accessory, says Greg James from Goji Hair; (This page) Invest in some professional nail art to see you through to New Year’s Eve

PARTY BEAUTY SOS Primed to primp you good and proper this party season. . .

AURORA HEALTH & BEAUTY 25-27 Pantbach Road, Birchgrove; Tel: 02920 621731; auroracardiff.co.uk BELLE TOUJOURS 113 Cathedral Road, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 221608; belletoujours.co.uk GOJI HAIR Pontcanna Mews, Pontcanna; Tel: 02921 321211; gojihair.com GUY CHRISTIAN 2A Bute Place, Cardiff Bay; Tel: 02920 470900; guychristian.com KEN PICTON 8 Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay; Tel: 02920 662080; kenpicton.com LUNA ORGANIC BEAUTY BOUTIQUE 74 Merthyr Road, Whitchuch; Tel: 02920 212605; lunaorganicbeautyboutiquecardiff.co.uk MADAME WAX 26-27 St Mary Street, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 232560; madamewax.com YUME HAIR & BEAUTY Park Grove, Cathays Park & 9 Fidlas Road, Rhydypenau; Tel: 02920 233270/02920 766610 yumecardiff.co.uk

HAIR

Thought up-dos were just for weddings? Think again. Slightly mussed-up chignons have been big news on the AW16 catwalks, along with oh-so-casual ponytails tied at the nape of the neck. Natural hair in general is back, from ‘hippy’ to ‘just woke up’ to ‘fresh out the shower’ and all gradations between.

That said, we all like a bit of glam in the festive season. The AW16 catwalks were full of gorgeous hair embellishments which can work for all hair lengths, with clips being used to pin back one side of a sleek bob or tucked into a glam up-do.

“For longer hair, a relaxed chignon is a great way to give a party-ready look. Or putting a wave through shorter hair can make it look totally different,” says Greg James of Goji Hair.

“We also fit a lot of Great Lengths hair extensions at this time of year – the ultimate party accessory!”

MAKE UP

According to Vogue, it’s all about a blackcurrant lip, graphic eyeline and glitter on your cheekbones. Let’s take those one by one. Lippie: go no lighter than red wine, and as dark as gothic black. Eyes: forget those chic little Audrey Hepburn flicks you’ve been doing for years,

and frame your peepers with almost-ridiculous graphic sweeps, like you’ve been doodled on by your teenage niece.

NAILS

Elaborate nail art remains huge. But this winter those in-the-know are also rocking ‘The new French’. Think traditional French manicure, but instead of white tips, they’re primary-coloured.

Or glittery. Or on a slant. Or you’ve added some horizontal lines across the nails, or around the outer edges. Instant minimalist chic. Colourwise, the hottest choices are moody metallics or pretty pastels. Whatever you select for your nails, be sure to hold your fizz at shoulder level so everybody can admire them.

BROWS

Big, bushy brows have been mainstream for yonks now and, inevitably, the pendulum is starting to swing. We’re talking about the ‘anti-brow’ or ‘no brow’. In other words: bleached, or at least not drawing attention to themselves in any way. Just not massive and fake-black. Got that?

It’s also pretty cool to add bright liner or glitter under or above the natural contour line of the browline: see Georgia May Jagger and Gigi Hadid on the AW16 catwalks. www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 35

H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

S PA S

LET OFF SOME STEAM Stressed out with Christmas prep already? In need of a little pampering to recharge your batteries? Sounds like you need to unwind with a luxury spa treatment or two...

By K AT I E K I SSOON 38 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Hmm, dreamy... indulge in an Elemis massage at Celtic Manor Resort

N

o doubt you’re immersed in the pre-Christmas ritual of present-buying, turkeyordering and planning for all those dreaded visiting rellies, right? Well, we’re here to rescue you. You need a bit of ‘me’ time – and we can think of no better way of recharging than with a bit of indulgent pampering at one of the luxury spas in Cardiff and surrounds. Relaxing massages, facials, saunas, holistic treatments... there’s a bit of something for everyone. Just put on your fluffy robe and flip-flops, and relax....

BEAUTY WITHIN

Over in Cowbridge, this medi-spa (and cosmetic laser clinic, if you’re that way inclined) has all manner of therapies and treatments for both sexes. There’s a huge list to choose from, including Elemis facials, de-stress face and body treatments, exfoliation, and the rather exotic-sounding Tahitian Bloom salt scrub.

Must-try: We love the sound of the ‘Moorish Ceremony of Dreams’ (for one or two people), with

Take a dip at the Marine Spa, at the award-winning St David’s Hotel

Try the romantic Couples Coastal Retreat package at Holm House

spa bath, frangipani body nourish float, deep tissue massage and advanced Elemis facial, lasting over five hours – wow. Where do we sign?

10 High Street, Cowbridge; beautywithinspa.co.uk

CELTIC MANOR RESORT

Making a splash at urbasba, at Cardiff & Vale College

The blissful treatments and pampering pickme-ups at Celtic Manor’s luxurious Forum Spa will have you drifting away with the fairies. Linger in the peaceful relaxation lounge, unwind in the spa bath or take a swim in the stunning pool, overlooking the rooftop garden.

Must-try: The Premium Sunday Spa Rollover – a luxury overnight stay with breakfast, three-course evening buffet at The Olive Tree restaurant, and a signature massage, facial or detox wrap.

Coldra Woods, The Usk Valley; celtic-manor.com

HOLM HOUSE

THE

‘MOORISH CEREMONY OF DREAMS’, INCLUDES A SPA BATH, DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE AND FACIAL – WHERE DO WE SIGN?

Located in Penarth, overlooking the Bristol Channel, Holm House is surrounded by its own stunning gardens, and is the first spa in Wales to offer luxury artisan brand La Sultane de Saba, with comprehensive ranges for face and body, combining deep-cleansing, nourishing body wraps, facials and an indulgent massage. Holm House also offers further beauty treatments such as waxing, tinting, nail care and more.

Must-try: Couples Coastal Retreat – a romantic stay that includes prosecco on arrival, luxury overnight accommodation, breakfast, two-course à la carte meal, a 60-minute full body massage and full use of the spa and leisure facilities.

Marine Parade, Penarth; holmhousehotel.com

ST DAVID’S HOTEL & SPA

Frequently cited as one of the UK’s top spas, the Marine Spa at St David’s Hotel is a real treat, whether you have an hour to de-stress or a whole day to completely unwind. Choose from an exhaustive list of treatments, facials etc to help you detoxify, refine, tone and relax – all packages also include full use of the spa facilities and a healthy light lunch. Seeing as it’s Christmas, you might be tempted to go for something a little naughtier on the food front...

Must-try: The Decleor ‘Me, Me, Me’ spa day, with body wrap, full body massage and facial – the whole shebang, naturally.

Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay; thestdavidshotel.com

URBASBA

Located at Cardiff & Vale College, right in the city centre, urbasba is a contemporary luxury spa experience with state-of-the-art hair and beauty facilities. The spa itself houses a jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, flotation bed and exhilarating monsoon shower, while the beauty salon offers a wide range of treatments for face, nails and body, as well as dedicated treatments for men and women.

Must-try: The ‘ultimate’ spa package – relax in the hydrotherapy spa pool, enjoy the deep-cleansing benefits of the eucalyptus steam room and pig out on a cracking five-star lunch at the college’s exclusive Classroom restaurant. Now that’s what we call pampering.

CAVC, Dumballs Road, Cardiff; urbasba.co.uk

VALE RESORT

Park Plaza’s Laguna spa offers a panoply of reviving beauty treatments. Guests have full use of the luxurious facilities, including steam room, spa bath, gorgeous relaxation lounge and modern gym (if you really must exert yourself ). End your day in the pool, watching the sun set over the city’s skyline.

Must-try: The Festive Cinnamon Salt Scrub, which promises to leave your skin feeling silky smooth, followed by a hot stone back massage to melt away muscle tension.

The award-winning Vale Resort in Hensol is pure spa indulgence, with an impressive range of spa and beauty treatments and therapies, plus countless holistic options, from aromatherapy and reflexology to traditional Ayurvedic-inspired treatments.

Must-try: The new Temple Spa treatments, available from January 2017. The Red Carpet Miracle facial promises a ‘radiant glow’ and the ‘sculpted firmness of youthful skin’ while the topto-toe Drift Away massage does exactly what it says on the tin. Bliss.

Park Plaza Hotel, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff; lagunahealthandspa.com

Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan; vale-hotel.com

LAGUNA HEALTH & SPA

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 39

Treat your loved ones this Christmas... · Free Gel upgrade with any Manicure/Pedicure · Free £10 Gift Voucher when you buy a Gift Voucher of the value of £70 or more · 20% off Elemis Facial Gift Card with any Elemis therapy booked in December ELEMIS GIFT SETS AVAILABLE

Discover the Beauty Within...

Let us help you keep 2017 resolutions on track with 17% off these amazing treatments! · 17% off Velashape III Courses (example: Abomen Course of 6, usually £1250, in January £1030) · 17% off Thread Vein Laser Removal courses (Price on consultation, starts from £80 per treatment)

· 17% off Laser Hair Removal Courses · 17% off Elemis 30mins Targeted toning Tightener (usually £45, in January £33 per treatment).

Courses available.

10 High Street | Cowbridge | Vale of Glamorgan | South Wales | CF71 7AG www.beautywithinspa.co.uk | info@beautywithinspa.co.uk

01446 774980 Medical Director: Dr Oliver Spencer B.D.S (Wales)

GIRL ABOUT TOWN

ANDREA BYRNE News a nchor

THE LONG WAY AROUND From Cardiff to London to Texas (!) and back, it’s been another whistle-stop month for Andrea...

W

ell, I did my usual trick and left everything in relation to Christmas prep to the last minute.

You too? Well, it’s way more fun that way, isn’t it? Nothing like a last-minute panic to get the heart racing, the sellotape tangled and the present tags in a muddle! What I do have prepared for you, though, are my excuses. It’s been a busy few weeks...

First of all, Lee and I realised that our birthdays had both passed us by without any celebrations. So, before mistletoe and wine could be contemplated, we decided it was high time we organised ourselves to

Andrea grabs a selfie with BBC sports presenter Jason Mohammad

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE A LAST-MINUTE CHRISTMAS PANIC TO GET THE HEART RACING use the gift he’d received for his birthday – at no less than Gordon Ramsay’s Maze restaurant in London’s Mayfair. Tasting menu and champagne, with a spectacular dry ice dessert thrown into the mix. Pretty impressive, Mr R! Highly recommend.

After that impressive spread, the next stop was Houston – in Texas. A four-day conference made all the more fascinating as it coincided with the aftermath of the US elections, and a country digesting an imminent new tenant in the White House.

I was flying the flag for Wales as part of the ever-growing Welsh contingent of the British American Project, a diverse transatlantic network of over a thousand professionals from the US and UK. A fascinating trip, which included a lecture from an astronaut about his experiences in space, as well as a visit to America’s largest hospital, which is pioneering mind-blowing research in international medicine.

On my return, I continued my health agenda, hosting the wonderful Nurse Of The Year Awards at Cardiff’s City Hall. The Royal College of Nursing is celebrating its centenary, so it was a pretty special ceremony this year – so special, it even resulted in ITV co-operating with the BBC, as I joined forces with presenter Jason Mohammad. It was a thoroughly uplifting and humbling evening, reflecting on the

Andrea’s cute pooches, Hank and Marcy

hard work and dedication of our nurses here in Wales. Congratulations to all the nominees and winners and, in particular, to the overall winner – children’s consultant nurse, Sian Thomas.

Amongst all this, Lee has been very busy with his own projects. As newly-appointed director of rugby for rugby league club South Wales Ironmen, he is now well into pre-season prep, making use of Olympic facilities at the Sport Wales National Centre.

It promises to be a great debut season for the relaunched team. So, if you need a last-minute Christmas present for a fan of the oval-shaped ball [I feel a shameless plug coming on – Ed], then I’m reliably informed that season tickets are now on sale.

And finally, as they say in the news business, our schnauzers Hank and Marcy have had a Christmas trim. So even if I’m not ready – they are! Looking dashingly cute for Santa’s reindeers, don’t you think?

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

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

The Whites Dental Centre Assisting your dental needs.

Dr Pamela White BDS GDC 52754 Dr Matthew White BDS GDC 52753 Ian Seddon BDS GDC 64868 (Practice Limited to Dental Implants) The Whites Dental Centre in association with Seddon Dental Implant Practice Ltd. 3 Station Road Radyr, Cardiff CF15 8AA

Tel 02920843658 info@white-smile.net www.white-smile.net

Limited to private practice.

M O T O R I N G a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

Stratstone Cardiff Dealer Principal, Barney McAllister

PRIME MOVER Need a premium, sports or prestige used car?

Look no further than STRATSTONE CARDIFF...

What’s been happening at Stratstone North Road?

There has been a sports or prestige offering at 156 North Road for longer than I can remember. I have very early memories of making my parents slow the car down so that I could look in and catch a glimpse of the cars in the showroom. 35 years later, when the chance came up to lead the business, I couldn’t turn it down. Most people in the area will know the site most recently as the Aston Martin showroom.

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

We will continue to retain our Aston Martin presence, but Stratstone have recently taken the decision to change the business to a premium sports and prestige used car sales and service centre. We have retained many of the key team members but we have changed the focus of the business.

There is so much experience and knowledge within the team here that we feel we can offer a great service to our existing customer base and to all the new customers in the city and beyond, without the cost that

main dealers will be charging. It’s a very exciting time for us here as we all believe we can build something great.

What will you be specialising in?

We will look to offer sales and service facilities for a wide range of vehicles. Our Aston Martin history is important to us and we intend to keep that going with a great range of used Aston Martin cars. In addition, we will supplement that with the best examples we

ad v ertising feature M O T O R I N G

Has Brexit affected car sales?

At the moment, I don’t think there has been a big impact. That said, Brexit hasn’t actually happened yet so it remains to be seen what the long-term picture will look like. My feeling is that when you can offer great value and service, you should be okay.

The UK is still a great place to be and I am sure that whatever trade deals are struck will allow us to continue to do well.

What about servicing – will you still be offering it?

can find of other premium sports and prestige models.

They will be prepared to a high standard and they will be priced competitively. We also offer great finance options to make that purchase as affordable as possible.

What are the challenges ahead?

There are many rumours around the area that the business is closing – that is definitely not the case. We are open for business and here to stay. The challenge is to get that word out to our customers and to convince them that we can continue to look after their needs as we always have done.

Of course the internet means that the competition is brought ever closer, but on the flip side that opens us up to the rest of the country – and it means we always have to be on our toes with pricing and the service we deliver.

Absolutely. Our workshop is a huge part of this business and our workshop leader, Richard Scott, has a vast amount of experience and knowledge. We are delighted that he has remained with us because his technical ability and customer knowledge is invaluable.

We offer the same level of customer service that we used to, without the costs that customers will pay at main dealer centres. We are also able to collect and deliver customer cars to make servicing not only cheaper, but more convenient.

What attracted you to join Stratstone?

A number of reasons. Firstly, I mentioned earlier that this site inspired very early ambitions in me and it just felt right to come here to take the reins. I have a burning ambition to make everyone who has contact with this place to be so impressed by the experience that they tell their friends, family and colleagues etc.

Also, the reputation of Stratstone really made me want to join the company. That name above the door should reassure people that we are a great place to do business. It also means that I have strong support behind me and access to a wide range of vehicles

that I can draw my stock from. If I don’t have what a customer wants on site, I should be able to find it for them.

Any deals you are offering now or in the future?

Our value pricing methodology provides price transparency to our customers which forms part of our Price Guarantee. All our stock is available on www.stratstone.com.

Right here and now we are offering some great incentives on servicing...

Finally, why is Cardiff a good place to do business?

As the capital of Wales, Cardiff is a great place to be. It is large enough to allow business and people to thrive, but small enough to retain that local spirit that is so apparent in the city. I know that when we do our job well, people will talk about us and the reputation of Stratstone North Road will grow and grow.

Stratstone Cardiff, 156 North Road, Cardiff CF14 3BH Tel: 02920 695700 www.stratstone.com/dealers/ used-cars-cardiff/

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

9 December – 9 January

Squeeze frontman Glenn Tilbrook is at The Globe; comedy silliness from Jack Whitehall; award-winning musical Mary Poppins

Plays/Shows/ Performance U N TI L 2 4 D E C E M BE R

WONDERMAN Gig-theatre take on Roald Dahl’s wickedly dark stories for adults, presented by Gagglebabble and National Theatre Wales.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk UNTIL 3 0 D E C E M BE R

THE BORROWERS Discover the secret world of Pod, Homily and Arrietty, whose lives are turned upside down by a dangerous encounter ‘above the floorboards’.

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk U N TI L 3 1 D E C E M BE R

THE EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES Have you ever lost something? A

toy? A tooth? A memory? What if, one day, you lost all of your ‘silly’?

A reimagining of the classic Hans Christian Andersen tale, written by award-winning playwright Alun Saunders, especially for 3-6 year-olds and their families.

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk 1 4 D E CE MBE R -14 J ANUAR Y

MARY POPPINS The story of the world’s favourite nanny, spectacularly brought to the stage with dazzling choreography, incredible effects and hummable songs.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 2 2 - 2 8 D E CE MB ER

THE NUTCRACKER This most famous of fantasy ballets for all the family begins as night falls on Christmas Eve, as the toys come to life...

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

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

Comedy

Music

15 DEC EMBER

10 DEC EM B ER

FIN TAYLOR: WHITEY MCWHITEFACE The critically acclaimed stand-up and “filth maestro” (Time Out) presents his sell-out Edinburgh Fringe show.

Chapter; chapter.org 9 J ANUAR Y

JACK WHITEHALL High-intensity silliness.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

Film 20-24 DEC EMBER

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE Frank Capra’s classic Christmas weepie. (See also page 53 for our regular film column from Chapter, previewing more key releases.)

Chapter; chapter.org

JOOLS HOLLAND AND HIS RHYTHM & BLUES ORCHESTRA The Later... presenter and former Squeeze man tickles the ivories in his inimitable style. Be warned: there will be boogie-woogie.

Motorpoint Arena; livenation.co.uk 12 DEC EM B ER

SØNDEGÅRD AT CHRISTMAS Thomas Søndergård and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales celebrate Christmas with Prokofiev’s atmospheric Winter Bonfire and his seasonal Lieutenant Kije Suite, both sure to get you in the festive mood.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

W H AT ’ S O N

13 DECEMBER

HANDEL’S MESSIAH The BBC National Chorus of Wales and WNO Orchestra come together for the first time to collaborate on Handel’s Messiah, a Christmas tradition and one of the best-known choral works in Western music.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 16 DECEMBER

CATRIN FINCH PRESENTS: CLASSICAL CAFÉ Christmas concert, featuring four emerging classical artistes.

Acapela; acapela.co.uk 16 DECEMBER

PER ODDVAR JOHANSEN Widely-respected Norwegian contemporary jazz musician.

Check out his beautifully meditative Let’s Dance album, released earlier this year.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 1 6 -1 7 D E C E M B E R

AL LEWIS & FRIENDS Annual Christmas show from Cardiff’s pop/folk/acoustic troubadour, with special guests.

St John’s Church; cantonstjohnmusic.co.uk 17 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS Start the Christmas countdown with a popular, family-friendly

ARTS

selection of festive classics and seasonal sing-alongs, performed by the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales, conducted

by Richard Balcombe.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 1 7 D E CE MBER

SUPER FURRY ANIMALS Gruff Rhys and chums reconvene to perform their luminescent debut album Fuzzy Logic and its esteemed follow-up, Radiator.

Motorpoint Arena; livenation.co.uk 1 8 D E CE MBER

AFFINITY Following last year’s sell-out performances, the talented Cardiff-based female choir of over 40 voices returns with Dreaming Of Christmas, its seasonal concert for 2016.

Chapter; chapter.org 1 8 D E CE MBER

CAROLS FOR CHRISTMAS A selection of popular carols, presented by members of the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales. St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 1 8 D E CE MBER

GLENN TILBROOK The Squeeze frontman, one of Britain’s most cherished singersongwriters, hits the road.

The Globe; globecardiffmusic.com

(Above, from top) Mixed Doner by Dale Lewis, part of the Jerwood Painting Fellowships at BayArt; good ol’ Christmas weepie It’s A Wonderful Life

Exhibitions

figurative painters. Martin Tinney Gallery; artwales.com

UNTIL 16 DEC EMBER

UNTIL 3 1 DECEM B ER

JERWOOD PAINTING FELLOWSHIPS 2016 New work by Archie Franks, Francesca Blomfield and Dale Lewis, three outstanding early career painters chosen as this year’s Jerwood Painting Fellows.

BayArt; bayart.org.uk UNTIL 24 DEC EMBER

CHRISTMAS SHOW The work of leading and emerging Welsh artists, including Harry Holland, one of Britain’s finest

CHRISTMAS/WINTER EXHIBITION A changing exhibition of selected new work from over 50 established and rising artists.

Albany Gallery; albanygallery.com UNTIL 2 J ANUARY 2 0 1 7

HYGGE Christmas show with handmade pieces and crafts from guild members and UK artists.

Craft In The Bay; makersguildinwales.org.uk w

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

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

Sport TUESDAY 13 DEC EMBER

CARDIFF CITY v WOLVES Sky Bet Championship, 7.45pm kick-off.

Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk

SATURDAY 2 3 DECEM B ER

CARDIFF DEVILS v MANCHESTER STORM League, face-off 7.30pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

MO N DAY 2 6 DECEM B ER SATUR DAY 17 DEC EMBER

CARDIFF CITY v BARNSLEY Sky Bet Championship, 3pm kick-off.

Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk

CARDIFF BLUES v NEWPORT GWENT DRAGONS Guinness PRO12, 2.05pm kick-off.

BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park; cardiffblues.com MO N DAY 2 J ANUARY

SATUR DAY 17 DEC EMBER

CARDIFF DEVILS v SHEFFIELD STEELERS League, face-off 7pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

CARDIFF CITY v ASTON VILLA Sky Bet Championship, 3pm kick-off.

Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 21 DEC EMBER

SATURDAY 7 J ANUARY

CARDIFF DEVILS v DUNDEE STARS Challenge Cup, face-off 7.30pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

CARDIFF DEVILS v COVENTRY BLAZE League, face-off 7pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

(From top) Revered food critic Jay Rayner is back in the ’Diff; and The xx return for their first live dates since 2014 UNTI L 2 6 F E B RUA RY 2 0 1 7

ARTES MUNDI 7 International contemporary art showcase and prize.

National Museum Cardiff & Chapter; artesmundi.org

Family ONGOING

DOCTOR WHO EXPERIENCE Experience mind-blowing special effects, and fly the TARDIS through time and space.

Porth Teigr, Cardiff Bay; doctorwhoexperience.com UNTI L 1 4 JANUARY

THE WONDERCRUMP WORLD OF ROALD DAHL A magical, interactive experience inspired by the extraordinary life and boundless imagination of the Llandaff-born storyteller. Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

Book Now 9 M ARC H

JAY RAYNER: MY DINING HELL The lauded restaurant critic

returns to Cardiff. Could be an interesting night, given his recent disparaging comments about the city’s food scene...

Acapela; acapela.co.uk 1 3 - 1 5 MA RCH

RUSSELL HOWARD Bristol’s cheeky comedy heavyweight brings his Round The World show to town.

Motorpoint Arena; livenation.co.uk 1 7 MA RCH

THE XX Their first live dates since April 2014, preceded by a highly anticipated new album, I See You, out 13 January.

Motorpoint Arena; livenation.co.uk 2 MAY

THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME Based on Mark Haddon’s award-winning novel, the story of a 15-year-old boy with an extraordinary brain – but illequipped to deal with daily life.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

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

WANT MORE? Sign up now for the Cardiff Life newsletter...

We have a little stocking-filler for you, Cardiff Life reader – it’s our new(ish) Friday email newsletter. Come and join us!

I’ll be sharing my picks of the coming week’s unmissable events, plus news, tips, special offers and other diverting little snippets and nuggets. And don’t worry, we promise not to share your data with any third parties – we’re just not like that!

So, if you’d like a friendly ‘hello’ from us in your inbox as the weekend beckons, then sign up here: mediaclash.co.uk/cln Cheers!

The Longhouse, formerly the Treharne Arms, is the new gastropub in Cardiff.

We are open every day for lunch, dinner and drinks - pop in and see us anytime!

Our menus are written with the seasons & make the most of what’s delivered to the kitchen each day.

WE ARE NOW OPEN! Longhouse, The Tumble, St Nicholas, Cardiff CF5 6SA Reserve A Table: 02921 157754

www.longhousewales.com

Wot, no Klingons? Acting royalty Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen in Harold Pinter’s No Man’s Land

FILM

ARTS

The much-anticipated Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, starring Felicity Jones as feisty mercenary Jyn Erso

Natalie Portman in Jackie, which is tipped for Oscar honours

HERE COME THE GIRLS Chapter’s monthly pick of must-watch movies sees girl power on the rise

T

By JA M I E R E E S

his time of year is synonymous with blockbuster films, and they don’t come much bigger than the eagerlyanticipated new Star Wars movie, Rogue One (30 December-29 January), which promises to be every bit as thrilling as 2015’s The Force Awakens.

After the formation of the Galactic Empire, resourceful mercenary Jyn Erso (played by Felicity Jones) is convinced by the newly-formed Rebel Alliance to work with a rag-tag group, led by intelligence officer Cassian Andor (Diego Luna), to steal the plans for the Death Star.

Set in the period between classic Star Wars flicks Revenge Of The Sith and A New Hope, this is a fresh new look at a galaxy far, far away. It will also be the first film in the franchise not to begin with the distinctive slanted rolling captions, or the ‘opening crawl’, as they call it in the industry. They’ll be getting rid of the Cinderella castle next!

Heaven forbid.

Anyway... Felicity Jones’ top billing in Rogue One is just another example of girl

power in film on the rise. Chapter now proudly promotes the work of women in film with the introduction of a new nationally-recognised ‘F’ rating, for films and performances directed or written by women, or featuring women in major roles on screen and stage.

THIS TIME OF THE YEAR IS SYNONYMOUS WITH BLOCKBUSTERS Right at the top of the New Year, one of the big female leads taking to the silver screen is Natalie Portman in Jackie (27 January-9 February). Following the assassination of JFK, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy fights through grief and trauma to regain her faith, console her children and define her husband’s legacy.

The film, which reunites Portman with her Black Swan director, Darren Aronofsky (who produces this time around), chronicles Jackie’s life in the week following JFK’s death, and sees Portman give a powerhouse

central performance. Tipped for Oscar success, it’s a must-see.

Continuing with the female-only theme, we also give you Harold Pinter’s modern comic classic, No Man’s Land (15 January), screened as part of the NT (National Theatre) Live Encore series. A tenuous link, we grant you, but we couldn’t possibly leave out acting royalty Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart. The pair star as two ageing writers, Hirst and Spooner, who meet in a Hampstead pub and continue their drinking into the night at Hirst’s stately home.

As they become increasingly inebriated, and their stories more and more unbelievable, the lively conversation soon turns into a revealing power game, further complicated by the return home of two sinister younger men.

Following their brilliant, sell-out performance at Cardiff’s New Theatre earlier this year, the acting legends will be sure to sparkle again on screen in this glorious revival.

Chapter, 40 Market Road, Canton, Cardiff; Tel: 02920 304400, chapter.org

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 53

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

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Meal Squared Cardiff’s latest food pop-up, featuring James Sommerin, Penylan Pantry, Waterloo Tea and The Dead Canary, plus tunes from Spillers Records, is a veritable dining dream team

By E L I SA BE T H M A HON E Y Photo s by GA BR I E L L A JAC K SON & J E SSIC A ZSC HOR N

O

ne of the most depressing things, food-wise, is how identikit city centres have become, with the same chains dominating and the same offering in every location. But a new collaborative initiative from some of Cardiff’s most impressive food, drink, music and design independents is boldly challenging this with a series of one-off events in different locations across the city. Meal Squared is the ambitious brainchild of Penylan Pantry owners Melissa Boothman and Jolene Collins, and aims to be the antidote to soulless chain restaurant dining.

The line-up on the night I visit is eye-catchingly eclectic, with food from Penylan Pantry and Michelin-starred James Sommerin, cocktails from The Dead Canary, teas from Waterloo Tea (the event is held at their Wyndham Arcade venue) and music from Spillers.

It’s packed on a chilly Sunday night, and instantly buzzing with a diverse crowd sitting around shared tables in classic supper club mode. We start with an Earl of Sherbute cocktail, a perky mix of gin, elderflower, cucumber, mint and Viognier – there are also wines by the glass and bottle, plus craft beers – and tuck into sharing plates by Penylan Pantry: charcuterie from Trealy Farm, served with pickled radish and caperberries, and Pant-Ys-Gawn with charcoal crackers, walnuts and honey.

These are placed in the centre of the table which means everyone gets chatting, talking about the music and comparing notes on the food. Given the volume of the impeccably cool tunes, this takes some doing, but nothing breaks the ice when dining with strangers quite like bellowing “CAN YOU PASS THE BRESAOLA?” across the table.

A paired tea (oolong) is served and works well as a palate

IT’S QUITE A

NOVELTY TO BE EATING THIS SORT OF FOOD TO

A BACKDROP OF POUNDING, STOP-START

TECHNO

cleanser before the first of Sommerin’s four tasting plates, which are dainty plates of exquisitely beautiful food.

We begin with slow-roasted pork, octopus and peanut, a brilliant combination of firm (octopus) and meltingly soft (pork, carrot) textures with a rich satay flavour cut through with a pickled sharpness. The Genmaicha green tea that follows has a toasted rice flavour and a top note that’s quite sesame-seedy; I realise this is a different kind of night when we find ourselves swapping tasting notes on the tea, as the DJs treat us to The Electric Prunes’ I Had Too Much To Dream.

Next is slivers of cured cod with rosemary, dotted with sweet, soft jewel-like vegetables and a light, creamy foam – it could have taken a little more rosemary flavour in the oil – and then a stunning lamb dish with broad beans, tarragon, artichoke and daicon radish. The blend of textures and depth of sweet flavour is phenomenal and, like the best tasting plate, you miss it when it’s suddenly gone. It’s quite a novelty to be eating this level of food with a backdrop of pounding, stop-start techno. It’s at this point that I start to ever-so-slightly feel my age, and wish I’d worked some cool-looking Scandi ear muffs into my outfit.

The last tea is chai, which is aromatic, milky and sweet to link between the lamb and the last plate, which is a deconstructed apple tarte tatin that’s ridiculously delicious.

We eat this flaky, caramelised, soft, creamy celebration of apple while singing along to some Kid Creole. Rapper’s Delight by The Sugarhill Gang kicks in and there is a smattering of seated dancing in the room.

There are lots of happy faces, and an appreciation that we’ve just experienced something very special. I would nudge the music volume down a touch, just to make chatting across tables easier, but other than that this was a magical evening.

Everyone on our table concurred that if this was a restaurant, we’d come here all the time, but also relished the pop-up nature of such a creatively curated event. As I leave, I say hello to James Sommerin and ask him why he wanted to leave his Michelin-star kitchen in Penarth to cook here on a night off. “It’s about independents supporting each other,” he tells me, “It’s fun.” And it was.

DINING DETAILS Meal Squared – book upcoming pop-up events (on 17 & 31 December) via Penylan Pantry, 72 Kimberley Road, Penylan; Tel: 07854 724980, penylanpantry.com Prices £50 per head (drinks extra) Vegetarian choice Not at this event, but vegetarian and vegan events are planned Child-friendly? Suitable for children over 12 Drinks Impeccable cocktails from The Dead Canary Service/atmosphere Service was cheerful, relaxed and super-friendly; atmos somewhere between an informal supper club, dinner with very cool friends and a pre-club venue

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

FOOD

RECIPES

LUNCH IS SERVED Forget the turkey – how about something a little different this Christmas?

Here’s a three-course festive menu from some of Wales’ best chefs, including STEPHEN TERRY (The Hardwick), who’ll be cooking at Cardiff’s exclusive charity fundraiser Chefs’ Night Out on 4 February. Dig in...

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

RECIPES

STARTER

MAIN

Cauliflower soup with cheddar cheese & chives

Saddle of Brecon venison

(Serves 4)

(Serves 8)

I

A lovely velvety soup to warm the cockles from STEPHEN TERRY, chef/owner at The Hardwick in Abergavenny – Michel Roux Jr’s favourite Welsh restaurant, no less

’ve chosen this recipe as it’s tasty and not complicated to make. The flavours of cauliflower and cheese have worked together forever and this dish is an easy way to encourage people to eat something nutritious. And it’s seasonal!

Ingredients: 1 large white cauliflower 1500ml boiling water 100ml milk 75g butter Salt to taste Small bunch of chives, finely chopped 200g grated cheddar Method: 1. Bring the water and milk to the boil.

2. Remove all the green outer leaves from the cauliflower and finely slice the cauliflower using a mandolin.

3. Gently heat/melt the butter in a large, heavybottomed pan, add the cauliflower and cook over a medium heat with a lid on. Check the cauliflower every 3-4 minutes to ensure it is not catching on the bottom.

4. Approximately 15 minutes after the cauliflower is cooked, add the almost boiling/just boiled water and milk, bring to the boil and cook for a further two minutes.

5. Remove from the heat, season with salt and liquidise – you don’t need to pass the soup through a strainer.

6. Pour into bowls and sprinkle over lots of grated cheddar, then melt the cheese with a chef’s blowtorch, if you have one, or just put the bowls under the grill for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle with chopped chives and serve.

Stephen Terry (The Hardwick, thehardwick.co.uk) is also appearing at Chefs’ Night Out (2 February, St David’s Hotel, Havannah Street, Cardiff). For more, see chefsnightout.co.uk

FOOD

JUSTIN LLEWELLYN, head chef at Park Plaza’s Laguna Kitchen in Cardiff, shares one of his favourite winter dishes, full of rich and succulent flavours – certain to pack a punch at a festive dinner party

I

absolutely love venison – the rich flavours benefit from long, slow cooking, resulting in a truly decadent dish.

Served with earthy beetroot, tangy blackberries, cavalo nero, violet potatoes and a rich chocolate ganache on the side, this showstopping seasonal dish balances an abundance of beautiful flavours.

Ingredients: 1 long saddle of venison (1.5kg) 16 thin slices Carmarthen ham 50g butter 1kg (2 large heads) cavolo nero For the potatoes: 1kg violet potatoes (peeled, washed and cut into chunks) 50g butter 2 litres water Salt & pepper For the chocolate ganache: 400ml cabernet sauvignon vinegar 125g plain chocolate 110g unsalted butter, softened For the venison & blackberry liqueur sauce: 200ml veal jus Handful of venison bones 50ml crème de mûre (blackberry liqueur) For the beetroot: 6 large beetroot, peeled 5 litres water 1 sprig thyme 1 large head of garlic For the beetroot & blackberry purée: 500g blackberries 50g sugar Method: 1. For the cavolo nero, remove the leaves from the stalks and cut into strips, then cook in boiling water for around three minutes. Put into iced water to stop the cooking process, then remove, pat dry and put to one side.

2. For the chocolate ganache, put the vinegar into a saucepan, w www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 59

FOOD

RECIPES

bring to the boil and reduce to around 110ml.

Put the chocolate into a bowl over a pan of simmering water (don’t let the water touch the bottom of the bowl), and heat gently until it has melted.

3. Remove the bowl from the heat, then stir in the butter and reduced vinegar until wellcombined. Place in the fridge until firm.

4. For the venison & blackberry liqueur sauce, heat a sauté pan. Add butter and venison bones, cook for a few minutes, then add the veal jus and simmer gently for 20 minutes.

Add the blackberry liqueur, pass through a fine sieve and set aside.

5. Put the beetroot into a large, non-reactive pan with the remaining beetroot ingredients.

Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for about an hour (or until the beetroot is tender), then remove them from the pan, reserving the cooking liquid.

6. Using an apple corer, cut the beetroot into cylinders (keep the trimmings) and set aside.

7. For the beetroot & blackberry purée, put blackberries and sugar into a pan over medium heat and cook until the blackberries just begin to break down – about 5-6 minutes.

8. Put the cooked blackberries into a food processor with the reserved beetroot trimmings and blend until smooth. Pass the mixture through a fine sieve and set aside.

9. Wrap the venison loin with the Carmarthen ham. Heat a frying pan over a medium heat, add the butter until foaming, and fry the ham-wrapped venison loin for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently, until browned all over.

Remove from pan, cover to keep warm, and set aside to rest.

10. At the same time, put reserved beetroot trimmings and beetroot cooking liquid in a saucepan over a medium heat and bring to a simmer. Add the beetroot cylinders, and heat until glazed.

11. Put the potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, bring to a rolling boil and cook until tender (about 8 minutes), but not mushy.

Remove from heat and strain, return to pot, add 50g butter and mash.

12. To serve, heat up the cavalo nero and put a portion onto each plate.

13. Carve the venison loin into thick slices and put on top of the cabbage (four pieces per portion). Add the beetroot and blackberry puree, spoon on some mash and chocolate ganache, and drizzle over the venison and blackberry liqueur sauce to finish.

Laguna Kitchen, Park Plaza Hotel, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff CF10 3AL; Tel: 02920 111103; lagunakitchenandbar.com

THE RICH

FLAVOURS IN THIS DECADENT DISH BENEFIT FROM LONG, SLOW COOKING

RECIPES

FOOD

DESSERT

Black Forest arctic roll with kirsch-soaked cherries & Chantilly cream (Serves 4) A winning retro winter pud from AMY TURNER, pastry chef at The Discovery in Cardiff

T

his Christmas, we’re championing the retro arctic roll, but this time with a festive boozy twist. Although we always suggest cooking everything from scratch, this recipe includes one or two cheaty options – anything to make life a little bit easier at this busy time of year!

Ingredients: For the ice cream: 500ml cream 250ml milk 180g sugar 5 eggs Half a vanilla pod 30 tinned cherries, soaked in cherry brandy 50g chopped chocolate Good dollop of cherry jam For the chocolate cake: 4 eggs 4oz sugar 3oz plain flour 2oz cocoa powder

Method: 1. For the ice cream, heat the milk, cream and vanilla pod. Beat the eggs and sugar together.

2. Whisk the egg mix into the cream and then put back on the stove and cook slowly until it reaches 86 degrees. Strain and chill.

3. Churn in an ice cream machine.

Just before you start, add the strained brandy-soaked cherries and chopped chocolate and churn until set.

4. Once set, lay out 3 sheets of cling film on top of each other. Scoop a layer of ice cream on the cling film, roll tight into a cylinder shape and knot the edges. Put in the freezer and set.

5. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, use shop-bought vanilla ice cream. Roll it into a cylinder in the same way, and add the cherry and chocolate separately during this process.

6. For the chocolate cake, preheat oven to 180C. Whisk eggs and sugar till thick and fluffy, then sieve the flour and cocoa powder and fold into the egg mix.

7. Line a tray with parchment paper, and

pour on the cake mix. Spread out thinly, using a palette knife. Bake the cake until soft and allow to cool down.

8. When ready to roll, place parchment paper on your work surface and sprinkle on caster sugar. Put the cake on top, and spread cherry jam over.

9. Remove the ice cream roll from the freezer and cut off the cling film. Put it on the cake and carefully roll the cake around it. Re-roll in cling film and put in freezer until needed.

10. To serve, cut three pieces of arctic roll and put on a plate. Whip some double cream, adding caster sugar and vanilla to make a Chantilly cream, and quenelle onto the plate. Add a few brandy-soaked cherries on top.

11. For additional decoration, melt some chocolate, spread it out on a tray and freeze, then break off some shards to embed into the finished pud.

Job done!

The Discovery, Celyn Avenue, Lakeside, Cardiff CF23 6FH; Tel: 02920 755015; knifeandforkfood.co.uk

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The PARTY LINE Everyone loves a good old New Year’s Eve knees-up, right? From Bowie tributes – naturally – to posh frocks, and gourmet dining to Spanish tapas, Cardiff’s got it all going on this year. HUGO BALL is your guide…

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

NEW YEAR’S EVE

(Opposite page, clockwise from top) funky new cocktail bar Dirty Martini; celebrate the life and music of David Bowie at Chapter; tasty tapas at Bar 44; DJ Don Letts is part of the killer New Year’s Eve line-up at Tramshed; (This page, left to right) Family favourite The Borrowers is at Sherman Theatre; local stand-up Mike Bubbins is appearing at Cardiff’s Glee Club

N

ot that we’re wishing Christmas away already, but it won’t be long until New Year’s Eve is upon us.

So, if you’re ready to drink, dance and make merry, Cardiff has plenty up its sleeve to suit. Look sharp: these things don’t plan themselves, you know...

ARTS & LAUGHS

ALL MANNER OF QUEEN BITCHES, DIAMOND DOGS AND THIN WHITE

DUKES

WILL CELEBRATE THE MUSIC OF DAVID

BOWIE

Before you throw yourself into the night’s celebrations proper, you’ll have plenty of time to take the kids to see musical family adventure The Borrowers at Sherman Theatre (4pm, shermancymru.co.uk), a contemporary take on Mary Norton’s classic children’s fantasy novel.

Later, over at Chapter (chapter.org), there’s a Golden New Year’s Eve, where all manner of Queen Bitches, Diamond Dogs and Thin White Dukes will gather to celebrate the life and music of David Bowie, with ten-piece Bowie tribute band Let’s Dance, Bowie-oke, DJs spinning plenty of the great man’s tunes, Bowie-inspired cocktails and even prizes for the best-dressed Bowie heroes.

Put on your red shoes...

Alternatively, you could always usher in 2017 at Tramshed’s Harlequin night instead (tramshedcardiff.com), put together by Cardiff’s seasoned party-starters Matt The Hat and Kaptin.

Get ready to dance through the decades with a killer line-up that includes legendary DJ Don Letts, comedy rap act Goldie Lookin Chain, Afrofunk/hip-hop supergroup Afro Cluster and Clwb Tropicana disco, plus street food, photobooths, fancy dress and more.

And if you fancy a change to the usual carousing, a night of rip-roaring comedy at Cardiff’s Glee Club (glee.co.uk) is a great way to see in the New Year. Compered once again by go-to Bristol comic Mark Olver, this year’s four-

GOING OUT

strong bill includes local boy Mike Bubbins, fasttalking Andrew Stanley and rib-tickling Canadian stand-up Allyson Smith. There’s food available, too, plus a late bar and disco.

PARTY ON...

If you’re determined to get properly togged up and messy, the city’s various hotels, as usual, are pulling out all the stops. Enjoy an indulgent dinner at Park Plaza’s Laguna Kitchen & Bar (lagunakitchenandbar.com), with a DJ spinning tunes until late, or go the whole hog with the slightly more formal New Year’s Eve dinner dance, with a Kir Royale drinks reception, followed by dinner and a disco in the Plaza Suite.

The Vale Resort’s Gala Dinner (vale-hotel.com), over at Hensol in the Vale of Glamorgan, promises a suitably lavish affair, too. The evening begins with champagne and canapés, followed by a fancy five-course gala dinner and soul, pop and swing classics from The James Williams & The Sessions Big Band.

St David’s Hotel & Spa (thestdavidshotel.com) is also going big with its Black & White gala ball, including a luxury four-course dinner and live music inspired by New York jazz and the American songbook.

In Cardiff city centre, recently-opened swanky cocktail bar Dirty Martini (dirtymartini.uk.com), is the place to be seen, with glamorous interiors and a bespoke range of martinis and other such tipples. Ours is a Quince & Walnut Old-Fashioned, since you’re asking...

And for informal eats, you can’t beat a bit of authentic Spanish tapas at the award-winning Bar 44 (bar44.co.uk). Book now for the New Year’s Eve night (ticketed entry only) at its Cowbridge, Penarth or Cardiff city centre restaurants, with plenty of music, dancing (DJ at Cardiff and Penarth only), and plate-upon-plate of Spanishstyle delicacies to indulge in – see you there! www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 65

ad v er t i s i n g feat u re C H A R I T Y

Meet the CHARITY

Local charities tell us all about their good work – and how you can get involved...

Danielle Angell JONES

SHARON OWEN

How can people help?

You can sign up to take part in an organised event such as the Cardiff 10K or Walk For Life.

Alternatively, you can organise your own fundraising event – an active challenge such as a swim, cycle or walk. Or if that’s not your cup of tea, why not organise your own social event – a dinner dance, tea party, or a themed fundraising evening.

In addition, as a charity, we are always looking for volunteers to join us; our events could not go ahead without the support of our wonderful volunteers who donate their precious time to help us.

Tell us about your charity?

We are the leading heart charity in Wales for placing defibrillators in communities, delivering CPR and defibrillator training, heart screening sessions throughout Wales. With 8,000 sudden cardiac arrests outside of Wales each year the survival rate is just 3%. When a defibrillator and good effective CPR is applied, the survival rate increases to 50%. In 3 years Welsh hearts have placed 457 defibrillators throughout Wales and taught CPR to over 14,000 people. We have also screened 800 people for heart defects.

Kidney Wales danielle@kidneywales.cymru www.kidneywales.cymru

Most satisfying part of your job?

It must be knowing the difference I’m making to the lives of Kidney Patients here in Wales. My passion for fundraising for Kidney Wales helps me support our wonderful fundraisers across Wales, taking on weird and wonderful challenges on our behalf. I love to hear about all the new and exciting events and challenges that are going on.

Your next big event/ fundraiser?

Our next fundraiser will be our Walk Around Wales to mark our 50th year!

Nicola Wright

Charity Director; Welsh Hearts Tel 02922 402670 www.welshhearts.org

What was your inspiration for starting up Welsh Hearts?

I was inspired to set it up after a routine check-up with my GP at the age of 11, when I was told I had a heart defect.

I want to give something back to Wales – I have been fundraising for over 20 years, and I lost both my nan, pops and various relatives and good friends to heart disease.

Royal Voluntary Service Tel 02920 027855 www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk Wales at last has a heart charity that is saving lives everyday, but there is still so much work to do.

What is the most satisfying part of your job?

Saving lives! There’s no better feeling than knowing that you have helped people, who, without help may have never known they had a condition until it was too late.

How can people help?

We are currently looking for new trustees to take Welsh Hearts to the next level.

We are always grateful for volunteers to help in any way they can.

What’s your vision?

A future where nobody in Wales dies prematurely from heart disease.

Help us to raise more funds to saves more lives in Wales.

For more information about how to apply for a defibrillator or to attend a heart screening session please visit our website www.welshhearts.org.

Our next heart screening is 28th January in Llandaff Village.

Tell us about your charity...

Royal Voluntary Service wants to help create a society where everyone feels valued and involved, whatever their age. Our volunteers help older people stay active, independent and able to continue to contribute to society. They do this by providing practical and emotional help where and when it’s needed.

How can people help?

We need volunteers across Cardiff to help us make a difference to older people’s lives. If you would like to meet really interesting people, be inspired and inspire others, please contact your local hub now or see our website for more information.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Supporting people who want to volunteer within their community. Knowing that our volunteers care and that what they do truly make a difference to people’s lives.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 67

More adventures in party-going

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

SHERRY GOOD

Clare and Neil Davies and friends

Bar 44 Cardiff held its launch party for International Sherry Week – guests enjoyed a great night of pouring, food pairing, tasting, talking and laughing at the venue’s sherry bar.

For more: bar44.co.uk

Bar 44 co-owner Owen Morgan

Bev Downes and Elisabeth Mahoney

Vicky and Pat Silva

Mitchell and Debbie Young

Full disclosure – we have no idea who these fellas are

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 69

dream. design. live

SOCIETY

WORK THE ROOM Superwoman 12, an annual conference and charity networking event for business women in Wales, was held recently at Cardiff Metropolitan School of Management.

For more: superwoman.org.uk

Sarah Hughes, Janet Price and Natalie Evans Nia Wyn Lloyd and Liz Andrews

Dhanisha Patel and guest

Helen Jones, Bethan Darwin and Denise Lovering

Leanne Waring, Rachel Rees and Karen Dell’Armi

Libby Calder and Kerstin Fitzpatrick

Lisa Dafydd, Elin Evans and Ffion Paschalis

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 71

SOCIETY

RAISE A GLASS Swanky new cocktail bar Dirty Martini opened its doors to guests following a ÂŁ1 million refurbishment of its St Mary Street venue. Over 400 guests enjoyed a range of cocktails, including Red Dragon, a Welshinspired martini made with Brecon Botanical Gin. For more: dirtymartini.uk.com/bars/cardiff

Nick Edwards, Ceri Mears, Amy Protheroe and Leah Andrew

Katie Williams and Eifion Weinweig

Alison Debono and Daniel Morris

Rebecca Fea, Carys Fisher and Olivia Cull Rhys Evans, Anna Morris, Hollie Tudor-Smith and Simon Cox

Tracey and Paul Smolinski

Rosie Edwards, Emma Breeze and Giannina Joseph

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

SOCIETY

POP GOES THE PANTRY! Exciting new supper club pop-up Meal Squared, a collaboration between Penylan Pantry, James Sommerin, Waterloo Tea and The Dead Canary – plus music from Spillers Records – held its latest event at Waterloo Tea in Cardiff’s Wyndham Arcade. See page 56 for full review...

Marion and Ben Joiner, and Emily, Oliver and Zoe Tune

For more: penylanpantry.com

Ashli Todd and Pascal Klein (Spillers Records)

Kate Fitzgerald, Joanna Cushion, Joanna North, Clare Anthony, Rhiannon Hurst and Sarah Harrison

Ffion Moyle and Lindsay Doyle PJ and Lyn Statham (Momentum Interiors)

Jamie Weston and Laura Rose

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 75

Shake-ups/launches/successes/promotions

CA R D I FF G E T S TO WO R K

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

“THERE’S A STRONG ECONOMIC CASE FOR TREE PLANTING…”

Arts & Business Cymru’s Yvette Kemble Jones, Gudrun Allsobrook, Rachel Jones, Louise Swindell and Becca Lloyd celebrate the charity’s fifth year of independence

THE BIG STORY

STATE OF THE ARTS Welsh charity Arts & Business Cymru announces growth in its fifth year of independence

Who’s going back to nature?

Find out on page 83…

Arts & Business Cymru (A&B Cymru), which has helped lever more than £1.5 million worth of investment in the arts from businesses, is celebrating five years as an independent organisation, following almost three decades of success as part of a UK-wide body. In that time, the charity has developed and supported mutually beneficial partnerships of all kinds between business and the arts across Wales.

But it hasn’t all been plain sailing. When A&B Cymru became independent, more than 65% of its income was drawn from the public purse, and several funding cuts since then have meant a need to adapt quickly to ensure its survival.

“The last five years have thrown up considerable issues that have affected the arts in Wales and also us as an organisation,” said Rachel Jones, A&B Cymru’s chief executive. “Our business model has had to respond to this, mirroring the changes that our colleagues in the arts are undertaking. Like them, A&B Cymru

2.1%

strives for sustainability without an over-reliance on the public purse. At a time when partnership working is more crucial than ever in the creative sector, we are determined to play our part as, after all, partnership is at the heart of A&B Cymru.”

Among A&B Cymru’s most successful ventures is CultureStep, a unique programme that invests cash in business and arts partnerships in order to strengthen and sustain them, while engaging and benefiting some of the most vulnerable people in society.

“Thanks to the hard work of our team,” says Rachel, “we have not only managed to sustain ourselves through a tough period, but we are doing better than ever. As we move into 2017, we will continue to develop our brokerage service, CultureStep, and training programmes, to ensure that the Welsh creative sector remains a priority for years to come.”

For more: aandbcymru.org.uk

THE BIG NUMBER

According to the Barclays Entrepreneurs Index, the number of new businesses starting up in Wales grew by 2.1% in the year to March 2016, reaching a total of 99,860. Wales also saw a 12.5% increase in the number of entrepreneurs realising their wealth from their businesses in the year to June 2016. Onwards and upwards!

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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 81

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS

NOMS FLOW & EARLY BIRDS FLY! It’s all systems go as the Cardiff Life Awards get into full swing Nominations for the Cardiff Life Awards are flowing strongly, as local business and organisations vie to win a prestigious Award.

And with a prominent radio campaign running through Capital FM, several of the special money-saving Early Bird tickets have already been snapped up.

Any company can enter the Awards, and there is no charge. Companies self-nominate via the Awards website (cardifflifeawards. co.uk), and a panel of independent judges will decide the winners.

“Nomination numbers are tracking some way ahead of the equivalent stage last year, and we look set for another record,” said Steph Dodd, event manager for Cardiff Life’s publisher, MediaClash. “It’s clear that companies see the long-term benefit of winning, for their teams and for their clients.

“Like hundreds of other organisations, we’re really looking forward to hearing those magical words on the night of 16 March: ‘And the winner is…’.“ All finalists are invited to a special new Finalists’ Reception on 27 February at Park Plaza’s Kuku Club in Cardiff. Finalists and winners also receive various marketing assets including window stickers, logos for websites and emails.

Early Bird ticket sales close soon, with updates via the Awards website and Twitter.

The nominations deadline will also be announced via all the usual channels, in good time for companies to be able to submit their entries – don’t leave it too late!

Limited sponsorships remain – our current roster of sponsors includes Cardiff Airport (headline sponsor), Cardiff Blues, Stills, Genero, Martyn Prowel Solicitors, Chapel 1877, Parkhouse, Park Plaza and Capital FM. The Awards themselves, to be hosted by legendary Welsh international rugby referee Nigel Owens, will be held at City Hall on 16 March 2017. For sponsorship enquiries, contact Mark George (mark. george@mediaclash.co.uk). Or to be involved on the big night, contact Stephanie Dodd (stephanie.dodd@mediaclash.co.uk).

For more: cardifflifeawards.co.uk, @CardiffLifeAwds 82 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Penylan Pantry, winners of the Café/ Coffee Shop category at the 2016 Cardiff Life Awards – it could be you!

12 TOP TIPS Winning a Cardiff Life Award can really put your business on the map. Need a few handy insider tips to help you put your nomination together? Look no further...

1. Take time on your nomination Please don’t sell your company short by leaving everything to the last day. There will have been ample time between the nominations opening and the closing date to marshal your most effective case.

2. Give measures of success Saying “We’ve had a great year” really isn’t enough. The judges will want to know more precisely what has been great. Are sales up?

Have you taken on more people? Or entered a new business area, launched a new product or opened up another outlet? Or increased marketing successfully? Or acquired a company? Or won an award?

3. Awards are open to all The Awards can be won by any company: firsttimers, previous winners, advertisers, nonadvertisers. NB: for the New Business category, companies need to have begun no earlier than 1 July 2015. Please give your starting date.

4. Make sure you qualify Winners need to be based in the Cardiff or Vale of Glamorgan area. There’s not a precise geographical definition (no tape measures here!). But if you’re close enough and much of your business is here, then you’ll be in. If in doubt – ask us!

5. Avoid empty claims Saying, “We’re the best in Cardiff” lacks context. So, say why you’re the best. What marks you out? What are the key strengths of your company?

6. Make sure your website is in order The judges will look at your website, so make sure it’s in good shape – if your last entry in ‘News’ was in February, then that doesn’t suggest you’re particularly active in marketing yourself. Similarly, broken links, typos or fuzzy pics will undermine your pitch.

7. If you’re using social media, be active!

Ensure you’ve haven’t tweeted only twice since the summer! Judges will be looking at any and all aspects of your business.

8. Testimonials It’s one thing for you to say you’re great, but it’s often more persuasive if customers say that. Give examples – the more specific, the better. Please make sure all testimonials are from 2016. And please don’t just say, “Check out TripAdvisor” (or similar). Do the legwork yourself and include the best examples.

9. Put yourself in the judges’ shoes Our independent judges will look at your nomination, visit your website and maybe even visit your business. And then they – and they alone – will decide. The judges will be faced with a number of finalists in each category. That’s a big pack of info! Make it easy for them. Write clearly with key points. Try to create some empathy. If it really would mean the world to you to win, then say so.

10. Use Twitter to build more support for your bid If you know you’ll be entering the Awards, then stick it out there on Twitter, making sure you tag @CardiffLifeAwds. You’re likely to gain some great comments which you can include in your nomination.

11. Enjoy the nomination process!

This is an opportunity to tell people about just how and why your business or organisation is so exceptional. Enjoy the chance to carefully assemble your arguments and to say exactly why you are great!

12. Keep 16 March 2017 clear...

Just imagine how good it would feel to win a Cardiff Life Award…

For more: cardifflifeawards.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIDER

BREAKING NEWS...

DYNAMIC DUO

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

JOLYON GOOD FELLOWS FORWARD THINKING CHRISTMAS IS COMING... ...and it’s time for a spot of reflection, says team-building guru ANDREA CALLANAN, founder of inspireMe This is generally the time of year when we look forward, but some of us are no doubt breathing a huge sigh of relief to have made it to the end of yet another year in business.

I’d like you all to reflect on the year you’ve just lived through.

Think of all your customers, your relationships, all the changes, challenges and joys. How do you feel about your business year? If you feel good about it, that’s great – write down why and celebrate it.

Then make sure you do more of the same next year. If not, spend a few more minutes thinking about what needs to change, then make a promise to yourself to take action and make it happen.

Ultimately, as the year draws to a close, it’s so important to have perspective and be grateful for our nearest and dearest, our homes and our provisions, especially with so many around us lacking those basics. My husband Matt and I founded #wemakegoodhappen this year, and we’re carrying emergency cold weather packs around with us this winter for the homeless in Cardiff city centre.

Sometimes it’s good to take the focus off ourselves and look outwards. It makes us better people, which ultimately makes for better business – win-win.

Merry Christmas, folks – see you in 2017, with bells on! inspireMe are a Cardiff-based engagement company that offers UK-wide creative team building and training. For more info, see andinspireme.com

Jolyon’s boutique hotel in Cardiff has been sold to a group of four investors, headed up by former Park Plaza general manager Hugh Hilary. The investors plan to rename the hotel and embark on an ambitious refurbishment programme.

The investors include Hugh’s brother Michael; George Enescu, founder of Intercity Removals; and former Jolyon’s director Mervyn Joseph.

“I’m very excited to be involved for the first time in my own project,” said Hugh Hilary, who has 38 years’ hotel management experience.

“Jolyon’s is a great hotel with huge potential. This, combined with its proximity to the city centre, is what made it such an appealing investment.

“We’re hoping to start on the refurbishments in early 2017 and give the hotel more of a luxury feel. We haven’t decided on a name yet, but the favourite at the moment is No.10, to keep an element of the existing branding.”

The group has already appointed Jordan Lewis, currently operations manager at Park Plaza, as the general manager of the yet-to-be-named hotel.

2

Nerys Lloyd-Pierce (Cardiff Civic Society) and Moginie James MD Nick James

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(Front) Jolyons investor Hugh Hilary with Mike Jenkins from HardingEvans, who advised on the purchase; (Back) George Enescu (Intercity Removals), general manager Jordan Lewis and investor Mervyn Joseph

TAKING ROOT Independent estate agent Moginie James has joined forces with Cardiff Civic Society in its latest campaign, ‘Canopy Cardiff’, which aims to conserve, sustain and develop the natural parts of the city.

The Cardiff-based estate agent has donated funds to sponsor a tree for planting in identified ‘grey’ areas later in the year. The campaign follows a recent Natural Resources Wales study, which showed that Cardiff falls below average in terms of the number of trees within a city.

“We aim to work alongside the local authority, organisations and businesses to plant scores of new trees over the next few years,” said Nerys Lloyd-Pierce, chair of Cardiff Civic Society.

“There’s a growing body of evidence relating to the health and well-being benefits of trees, indicating a very strong economic case for more tree planting.”

“We are passionate about preserving Cardiff,” said Moginie James MD Nick James. “By nature of what we do for a living, we want to make the city the very best that it can be. It is our pleasure to be working with Cardiff Civic Society, and to see the work they are doing to ensure the city is looked after.”

For more: cardiffcivicsociety.org

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 83

The Bulmore Caerleon Occupying an idyllic position, set back with panoramic views across the 5th Green of the highly prestigious, internationally renowned Ryder Cup course at the Celtic Manor Resort. This magnificent Grade Two listed Mansion House fronts a quiet and private select hamlet road, which travels through the manicured grounds of the resort, and backs onto the 18th Green. This is a charming detached stone built Victorian country residence dates back to 1840, for the past three years the present owners have extensively renovated and modernised to a very high specification and commands a truly picturesque position with an in and out gated entrance drive.

Within the grounds is an orchard, a detached stable block with full planning to be converted into a two bedroom cottage and surrounding gardens and paddock, approximately 3.85 acres. A secluded landscaped private sun terrace boasts a pretty garden vista across the surrounding gardens and there is ample space to convert the current wood store into several stables. The property consists of a detached double fronted five bedroom period home with extended living space, and a fully renovated basement cellar comprising four rooms with restored stone walls and original flag stone floors and a ceiling height of (7’3 FT), industrial lighting, a stone staircase and three windows. There are a total of five bedrooms with further attic space available to convert into a sixth bedroom. The master bedroom (23’9 x 13’1) includes a new ensuite shower room and a wrought iron decorative bespoke spiral staircase which leads to an attic dressing room. There is a further guest bedroom with ensuite and a generous re-modelled family bathroom. The bathroom fittings throughout were supplied by Arundel Bathrooms with mandarin stone tiles, including limestone tiling, traditional fittings including crosswater taps and stone shower trays and a cast iron bath from the Cast iron Bath company.

For sale with PA Black Llanishen Branch 02920 618552

£1,350,000

Towy Court Llanishen A private development of just three beautiful detached family homes built the traditional way and to a high specification.

Four bedrooms | Three classic bathrooms/ensuites | Magnificent open planned fitted kitchen and family sitting area with aluminium bi folding doors onto garden | Lounge and Study | NHBC 10 year warranties | Generous specifications | Lawns and rear patios | A development by Randall Brown Developments Ltd. Main contractors - Ashfield Building Contractors Ltd www.ashfieldbc.co.uk

For sale with PA Black Llanishen Branch 02920 618552

ÂŁ595,000

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

ASHFIELD

86 112I I CARDIFF CLIFTONLIFE LIFE I I www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

Wow, check that double-height entrance... a unique, five-bedroom family home in Ystradowen, near Cowbridge

By K AT I E K I SSOON

www.mediaclash.co.ukI I CLIFTON CARDIFFLIFE LIFE I I 113 87 www.mediaclash.co.uk

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

W

ith its wide facade, doubleheight glazed entrance hallway, and accent-lit staircase, Ashfield imposes itself on you right from the moment you step over its threshold.

It’s certainly not short of space.

On the ground floor is a large living room, a generous multi-purpose space with a solid wooden floor, a woodburner with a handsome brick fire surround and broad floor-to-ceiling windows that look out over – and provide access to – a sheltered side patio and rear garden. There’s a study, too, which could easily double up as a second sitting room.

Next to the living room is a large kitchen/dining area, a family-sized room with granite and wood worktops, a two-oven, gas-fired Rayburn range cooker and ample space for a dining table and further seating, tailor-made for those big family gatherings. Probably too late to be in by this Christmas, but you can always start planning ahead for next year...

Upstairs are five double bedrooms, including a master bedroom with its own dressing room, a luxurious en-suite shower and lovely views out over the paddock. A second guest bedroom is also en-suite, while the other three double bedrooms all have use of an impressive modern family bathroom.

Out front, there’s a generous parking area, a detached garage block and that adjoining paddock, totalling just over an acre of land. Amble round to the back of the property and you’ll find a large, sheltered, private garden, with paved seating and lawn, which can be accessed from both the living room and the kitchen-dining room. So... looking good for Christmas 2017, then?

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More space than you’ll know what to do with...

HOUSE NUMBERS Ashfield, Ystradowen, nr Cowbridge

5

bedrooms

3

reception rooms

3

bathrooms

1

large kitchen/dining room

£835,000 price

For more info, contact Watts & Morgan, 55 High Street, Cowbridge, Vale Of Glamorgan, CF71 7AE; Tel: 01446 773500, wattsandmorgan.co.uk

P R O P E R T Y A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Recently sold properties give an idea of the fantastic standard of quality by MYJM Developments

LUXE LIVING

Peter Alan is extremely excited to be in involved in a fantastic new development in Victoria Park, brought to us by MYMJ DEVELOPMENTS

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ituated on sought-after Fairfield Avenue is a large redbrick house with a contemporary flat extension to the side that makes this property just ooze kerb appeal. It’s just a short walk away from Victoria Park, which covers almost 20 acres and includes the original model boating and paddling pool which is a very popular attraction in summer.

At the very north of the park, there are tennis courts and a five-a-side astroturf football pitch. There’s also easy access to the cool local bars and wide choice of eateries, featuring cuisine from around the world. And there’s quick access to Cardiff city centre, too, which is just over two miles away.

MYMJ Developments have been buying property in and around Cardiff for years, and are known for their boutique and luxury developments providing first-class homes in locations to perfectly match your lifestyle.

There are only four spacious apartments to be had, in a prime location that will attract lots

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

of attention from potential buyers wanting to be close to Victoria Park.

The apartments are ultra-modern, with the latest technology such as underfloor heating, Sonos sound systems in all the rooms, and contemporary, high-spec fitted kitchens and bathrooms – just a few of the features included.

“COME ALONG TO OUR LAUNCH DAY ON SATURDAY 17 DECEMBER” Come along to our launch day on Saturday 17 December at 11am, where you will be greeted by one of Peter Alan’s representatives and find out more about the conversion – and about how you could own one of your own!

There has already been significant interest prior to the build being completed, so to avoid missing this fantastic opportunity, call

now to register.

There are four apartments in total, one of which is a ground floor duplex apartment, benefitting from private gardens.

Prices start from £124,950. Some of the photographs featured are recently sold properties completed by MYJM Developments to give an idea of the fantastic standard of the conversation.

424 Cowbridge Road East, Victoria Park, Cardiff CF5 1JN Tel: 02920 397077 www.peteralan.co.uk

DESIRE

def: DESIRE: a strong feeling of wanting to have something; to set one's heart on; to crave; to aspire to; to feel passion for..."

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

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

advertisin g feature P R O P E R T Y

Enjoy Christmas at Crest Nicholson’s Penarth Heights... ... with a stress-free move using the VIP Part Exchange scheme.

F

or young families and professional couples looking for a new home that offers stylish living, the fourbedroom Brigadier homes at Crest Nicholson’s Penarth Heights are a perfect choice.

These stylish three storey houses are ideally suited for those seeking a taste for luxury. Built to the highest specification, each of these homes features a large, fully-fitted kitchen along with a separate spacious dining area and a substantial living room set on the first floor. The master bedroom includes an en-suite, and four large bedrooms complete this contemporary town house. On-trend bi-fold doors open onto a private rear garden, perfect for entertaining on summer nights.

These detached properties also come with fully fitted bathrooms, garage and parking and low energy downlights to keep electricity bills down.

Prices for Brigadier homes at Penarth Heights start at just £407,000, so you could afford more space than you think.

Using the Part Exchange scheme to secure a Brigadier would make Crest Nicholson your chain free cash buyer for your current home, removing complicated chains and taking the stress out of moving house. Crest Nicholson will make you an offer on your existing home following valuations from local estate agents. You will be guided through the buying process at every step of the way, with regular updates and professional guidance throughout, and no agents’ fees to pay along the way.

With Crest Nicholson’s VIP Part Exchange scheme, your packing and removal costs are even taken care of, making moving to a

Brigadier at Penarth Heights quick, easy and stress free.

The picturesque town of Penarth was recently voted as “one of the best places to live in the UK”, by The Sunday Times, with leisure facilities and an array of excellent schools all within close proximity to the development. The town also boasts charming boutiques, the recently refurbished pier and one of the region’s top country parks, offering

something for everyone. The Welsh capital’s sporting events, bars, restaurants and shops are right on the doorstep, via water bus – or if you’re the active type then a short bike ride will get you there!

Penarth Heights, located in the heart of Penarth, is a stunning collection of one and two bedroom apartments and three and four bedroom homes in one of the most-sought after towns in Wales. All of the luxury homes at Penarth Heights are built to the highest specification, ensuring that your new home is designed to create the perfect environment for modern living, whilst being surrounded by the beauty and idyllic views of Cardiff Bay.

Prices for a four-bedroom Brigadier start at just £407,000. For further information call 02920 020 247, email penarthheights@ crestnicholson.com or visit www.crestnicholson.com/ penarthheights.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 93

CARDIFF LIVES

Q&A

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ith over 20 years’ experience, Neil Rayment has established himself as an eminent figure in British jewellery design. Having won countless prestigious awards for his work, he founded bespoke jewellery business Advanced Jewel Craft in 2004, and continues to design and make gorgeous, high-quality, contemporary jewellery today. Ratners it most certainly ain’t...

So – where’s home in Cardiff?

Home is soon to be Pentyrch. It’ll be our ‘forever’ home – had way too much fun with the interiors!

You’re an award-winning silversmith and goldsmith, and founder of Advanced Jewel Craft – how would you describe your style?

I’m a real traditionalist at heart, and love looking back at great periods of design – the 1920s and 30s. I love getting a balance, the perfect continuation from one curve to the next... which isn’t immediately obvious in my work, because it’s so subtle. I think that’s why I was asked to work with architect Zaha Hadid on her most recent adventure into designing jewellery. RIP, Zaha.

What are you working on at the moment?

I’ve just come back from a brilliant trade mission with the Welsh government in Japan. It truly was a pilgrimage for me, having had a lifestyle of all things Japanese since my early days, practising traditional Shotokan karate. So, an inspired collection is being formed, but I’m determined not to rush it – it could be ready by early spring next year, I think.

What’s new in the world of AJC? Early in the new year, I’ll be rebranding as Neil Rayment: Goldsmith. The website will be beautiful, with lots of great images of my work.

Most famous person you follow on Twitter?

I’m not that kind of guy.

How do you relax?

I love to exercise – I’m most at peace during exercise and afterwards, whether it’s crashing through the woods with the kids or paddling out for another wave.

Proudest life moment so far?

My children, and my wife for having them – my proudest and scariest moments ever.

What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you?

My brother and I [see also final answer below...] were once asked to present a literary award in London. The main host (who I won’t mention) for some reason took a dislike to us, and left us on stage unannounced to wing it in front of a collective of great literary minds and stumble through our award announcement. The award winner was Terry Pratchett, and I was an admirer of his work, so I’ve always regretted not showing the appreciation I felt.

Shame on your ego, host person!

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NEIL RAYMENT The award-winning silversmith and goldsmith, and founder of bespoke jewellery business Advance Jewel Craft, on design inspiration, his love of all things Japanese and being a film star Dream dinner party guests?

Will Smith – I’ve been lucky enough to hang with him for a few days. I would no doubt die laughing.

Must-watch television programme(s)?

I’m a self-confessed zombie/apocalyptic type, so probably Z Nation and The Walking Dead.

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

Traditional Japanese food.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

Gills would be good. If not, then a humility beam.

If your nearest and dearest had to describe you, what would they say?

God, I don’t have a clue...

Who would play you in a film about your life?

I’ll leave that to the casting director – maybe I could pick the casting director?

Guiltiest pleasure?

I love clothes. It never used to be a guilty pleasure until I had kids, though!

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

Opportunity comes disguised as hard work, and a smile costs nothing.

What’s on your bookshelf at the moment?

Loads of stuff that I haven’t read! I love making a weekend of the Hay Festival with the family and always come away with something unexpected.

I’m currently reading What Is The What: The Autobiography of Valentino Achak Deng, a novel by Dave Eggers – extraordinary.

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

Music is such a daily part of my life, and I have quite the eclectic taste, so I can go full goosebump on any day!

Best thing about Cardiff?

Best thing about Cardiff... is Cardiff.

Favourite shop in Cardiff?

I love the arcades and the shopping expedition that is St David’s.

Locally, where do you like to eat and drink?

When we’re out with the kids, Wagamama is the order of the day. For those fleeting grown-up moments, there are so many great choices: The Potted Pig, Mint and Mustard and, more recently, Porro in Llandaff, which is really my thing.

Secret or favourite Cardiff spot?

My studio is in Cardiff Bay and the place has really blossomed in the last six years. I love jumping on my bike and riding over to the barrage, or grabbing a coffee from my favourite coffee house, Quantum, and taking some time out on a sunny bench right by the water.

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

I’m an identical twin, and starred alongside my brother in the Warner Bros movie The Matrix Reloaded.

For more: advancedjc.com

www.icebodysculpting.co.uk - info@icebodysculpting.co.uk 02921 202 190. 122 Cowbridge Road West, Cardiff, CF5 5BT