Cardiff Life – Issue 171

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 171 / AUGUST 2017 / £3

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

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ISSUE 171 / AUGUST 2017 / LET'S HIT THE 'DIFF!

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IAN HISLOP ON THE WIPERS TIMES

WHAT LOCAL LAWYERS AND ACCOUNTANTS ARE REALLY THINKING

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WEEKENDERS SHORE THING

SUMMER HOLIDAY ESSENTIALS

WOW YOUR OUT-OF-TOWN FRIENDS WITH THE BEST OF CARDIFF

MEET GAZ OAKLEY, VEGAN CHEF EXTRAORDINAIRE

WINNER

editor’s letter / Issue 171 / AUGUST 2017

City slickers There are over 4,000 cities on this planet. From Sao Paulo to Shanghai, you can bet that every single one of them is convinced it’s more beautiful, friendly, discerning and all-round desirable than the others. Yes, it’s inevitable that we all think precisely those things about Cardiff, but you know what? We’re right!

Many of us have dear friends in other cities, however, and often they’ll descend on us with weekend bags and expectant smiles. So what do they expect when they come to visit? Well, we obviously can’t speak for all of them, but it’s fair to say some simply aren’t prepared for just how competitive Cardiff and its environs are, in terms of world-class scenery, eating and drinking, shopping, sport, entertainment and, above all, warm, welcoming natives.

We had fun this issue rounding up Cardiff’s various attractions, guaranteed to silence even the most highrollin’, hard-to-please Londoner. Along with that, we have Ian Hislop, a stunning property showcase and a rising chef you’ll be hearing a lot more about in our ‘Cardiff Lives’ Q&A. Enjoy the issue – and your amazing city.

Lawr yn y ddinas

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THE WEEKENDERS You’ve got 48 hours to impress your out-of-town guests. We have ideas...

Mae dros 4,000 o ddinasoedd ar y blaned hon. O São Paulo i Shanghai, a gallwch fentro bod pob un ohonynt yn argyhoeddedig mai hi yw’r ddinas fwyaf prydferth, cyfeillgar, chwaethus a dymunol ohonyn nhw i gyd. Ydy, mae’n anochel mai felly y byddwn ni i gyd yn disgrifio Caerdydd hefyd, ond wyddoch chi beth? Mae’n wir!

Mae gan lawer ohonom ffrindiau da mewn dinasoedd eraill, serch hynny, ac yn aml byddan nhw’n dod i fwrw’r Sul gyda’u bag penwythnos a gwên ddisgwylgar ar eu hwyneb. Felly beth maen nhw’n ei ddisgwyl pan fyddan nhw’n ymweld â’n prifddinas? Wel yn amlwg ni allwn siarad ar ran pob ymwelydd, ond mae’n deg dweud nad yw rhai ohonyn nhw’n sylweddoli mor wych yw Caerdydd a’r cyffiniau, o ran y golygfeydd (sy’n cystadlu â’r goreuon yn y byd), y bwytai a’r bariau, y siopau, y cyfoeth o ddigwyddiadau chwaraeon ac adloniant sydd ar gael, ac yn anad dim, y croeso cynnes Cymreig.

Rydym wedi cael llawer o hwyl yn creu’r rhifyn hwn gan grynhoi’r amrywiaeth o atyniadau sydd i’w cael yng Nghaerdydd, sy’n siwr o fodloni’r Llundeinwyr mwyaf anodd-eu-plesio hyd yn oed sy’n hoffi byw’r bywyd bras.

Rydym hefyd yn rhoi sylw i Ian Hislop ac yn arddangos eiddo ysblennydd, ac yn ateb cwestiynau ‘Cardiff Lives’ y tro hwn mae cogydd sy’n prysur wneud enw iddo’i hun.

Mwynhewch y rhifyn – a’ch dinas anhygoel.

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

CONTENTS / ISSUE 171 / AUGUST 2017 M EET T H E T EAM

MAIN FEATURE

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

16 Guest Appearances Friends down for the weekend?

Show off your city and they’ll never want to leave

Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Hugo Ball, Matt Bielby, Jamie Rees, Katie Kissoon, Kora George, Rhys Williams

OPINION 13 A Man’s World As always, summer means a feast of outdoor sport...

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

THE ARTS 22 What’s On Your ultimate guide to going out in Cardiff

26 The Wipers Times Ian Hislop and Nick Newman reveal the inspiration behind their successful stage play, coming to Cardiff in September

33 Film Representations of queer culture on screen at Chapter

SHOPPING 36 Editor’s Choice Ten essential items for your summer hols

40 Fashion Flaunt those maxi dresses and cute midis – it’s party time!

FOOD 43 Food News Cheese Pantry’s Owen Davies, Imran Nathoo and a host of cool new Cardiff openings

44 Restaurant Kora George enjoys classic cuisine with a modern European twist at popular country hotel and restaurant, Manor Parc

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

26

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Cardiff Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW; 01225 475800, mediaclash.co.uk, @The MediaClash

BUSINESS

DEPARTMENTS

60 Land Of The Clients

9 Spotlight

Cardiff’s professional services community in the spotlight

The latest on the Cardiff Book Festival, St Fagans National Museum of History and National Theatre Wales

65 Business Insider The latest on Porter’s Bar, Olsen Fitness, FlowerBe, and more

PROPERT Y

48 Motoring Matt Bielby road-tests the remarkable new Lexus LC 500

70 Property Showcase

52 Snapped!

Katie Kissoon heads to soughtafter Cyncoed for a nose around an ultra-modern, detached, sixbedroom abode

Celebrity Cup Golf at Celtic Manor, Tafwyl, Womenspire Awards and much more – who’s been partying? And with whom?

74 Cardiff Lives Meet Gaz ‘Avant-Garde Vegan’ Oakley, vegan chef extraordinaire

© 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

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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

BOOKS

KEEP WRITE ON Bowie, book quizzes, Fighting Fantasy, Marcel Theroux, myths, legends, discos and devolution – the Cardiff Book Festival is coming...

(Clockwise, from below) Marcel Theroux, the latest Bowie biog, Kate Hamer, This Is Going To Hurt by Adam Kay and John Gordon Sinclair

Celebrating the written word, the initial line-up for the second-ever Cardiff Book Festival (22-24 September 2017) features big names and local talent from the worlds of fiction, non-fiction, prose and poetry, all of whom will descend upon the Welsh capital to bring books alive across two stages at the iconic Angel Hotel, Cardiff Central Library and official bookseller, Waterstones.

Organised by journalists Brian Meechan and Cerith Mathias, and novelist/PR man Dan Tyte, highlights include GQ editor Dylan Jones talking about his upcoming book, David Bowie – A Life, an engrossing, magisterial biography drawn from Jones’ interviews with the enigmatic star and over 180 of Bowie’s friends, rivals, lovers and collaborators; crime novelist John Gordon Sinclair (Gregory’s Girl) discusses his new novel, Walk In Silence, a taut and dark page-turner that sees a lawyer enter the brutal world of the Albanian mafia in her search for a kidnapped child; Marcel Theroux talks about his latest novel, The Secret Books, an epic mystery adventure set in a world of spies, propaganda, revolution and the ‘lost years’ of Jesus Christ; and Cardiff-born literary agent Cathryn Summerhayes from Curtis Brown will be hosting a ‘pitch in the pub’ session where aspiring writers can pitch their future bestsellers over Twitter and in person.

“We’ve tried to create more of a festival feel with this year’s event,” said Cerith Mathias, “adding wristband tickets, working with Green Man, adding more stages and writing workshops, and programming events like a book quiz and lit disco, where you can throw some shapes to tunes inspired by books.”

“The written word isn’t only meant for your favourite chair, the bathtub or those moments before you fall asleep every day,” added Dan Tyte.

“When it leaps off the page, when it’s read aloud, when it comes alive, when it’s debated, by the most vital writers from Wales and the world, that’s when beautiful things can happen. Come and be part of it.”

Book lovers across Cardiff and beyond can now snap up tickets for events at early bird prices, with a weekend wristband priced at £30 (until 18 August) and individual event tickets from £5 per adult (£3 concessions).

For more: cardiffbookfestival.co.uk

Home Made Cakes, Cup Cakes, Muffins, Ice Cold Frappe

Independent Coffee House at Cardiff Bay

EspressoLabUK EspressoLabUK 20 James St, Cardiff CF10 5EX 029 2047 3636

National Theatre Wales NHS artistic director, Kully Thiarai, wants your NHS stories

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

St Fagans brand-new Gweithdy building

ARTS

PICTURE OF HEALTH National Theatre Wales calls out for personal stories about the NHS WELSH HERITAGE

ON THE FACE OF IT A new welcome for visitors to St Fagans National Museum of History this summer Visitors to the museum will be greeted at a vastly improved new entrance building and will be able to enter Gweithdy, the newest addition to the museum’s collection.

Both the main building and Gweithdy are the latest developments in St Fagans’ £30 million ‘Making History’ project. Due to complete in October 2018, it is National Museum Wales’ biggest-ever redevelopment project, marking the greatest period of change for St Fagans since it was founded in 1948.

The museum’s existing Grade II listed main building has been transformed and refurbished by Kier Construction and leading architects, Purcell. Visitor facilities now include a new reception area, shop and café, and public space has doubled.

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

Gweithdy, meanwhile, designed by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, is a new sustainable building, celebrating the skills of makers past and present.

Visitors will be able to access the new coffee shop and participate in a wide range of courses and craft workshops run by skilled craftspeople and artists.

“I am delighted to see the transformation of the main building and opening of Gweithdy, which has been supported by the Welsh Government,” said Economy Secretary, Ken Skates. “Our £7 million investment in this project reflects our ongoing commitment to Wales’ culture and heritage. I am confident that these excellent new facilities will encourage people of all ages to visit the museum time and time again.”

For more: museum.wales/stfagans

One year ahead of the NHS’s 70th birthday, NTW is asking everyone and anyone in Wales to share their stories – anonymously, if preferred – of the impact the NHS has had on their lives; patients, doctors, surgeons, nurses, speech therapists, porters, cleaners, relatives, administrators and everyone in-between, about anything from straightforward GP appointments to life-saving operations, taking in everything from obstetrics to palliative care, stories both tragic and comic, from 1948 to the present day, and from cradle to grave.

Working with communities and artists, and inspired in part by the personal stories gathered, NTW will create a series of seven multi-platform productions, collectively titled NHS70, made and performed live across the country and online in July 2018.

“Almost certainly, you or someone you know will have been an NHS patient at some point,” said National Theatre Wales’ artistic director, Kully Thiarai. “What happened? Which services did you use? Who did you meet along the way?

What did the NHS do for you? Or maybe you or someone you know works, or used to work, at the NHS? What are the stories that stick out from that experience?”

For more info, and to share your experiences of the NHS, see nationaltheatrewales.org/nhs70

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A MAN’S WORLD

RHYS WILLIAMS

OUTSIDE CHANCE As always, summer means a feast of outdoor sport...

T

he Great British – well, Welsh – summer is upon us and as I’ve said many times before, Cardiff is a great city which really comes alive at this time of year. It has a real buzz to it during the warmer months, and I particularly enjoy my lunchtime stroll in the city centre, or a weekend walk around the many inner city parks or attractions.

And, of course, it’s at this time of year that everyone starts getting beach-ready before going on their holidays. I’m sure around the city, just as in our office at Cardiff Blues, the lunch and snack-time gluttony turns into healthy eating – the sheer amount of avocado, eggs and chicken consumed has increased exponentially!

It’s also the time for major sporting events. We’ve just had Wimbledon, the British Open and the Tour de France, and the cricket season is obviously still in full swing. Sport has such an amazing power, inspiring people to participate – even more so when the sun’s out. When Wimbledon was on, the parks were full of children playing tennis, imagining they were Andy Murray or Johanna Konta.

That’s what is great about Cardiff hosting major sporting events. They inspire the local population to challenge themselves while at the same time hopefully making strides to a healthier lifestyle.

Two events that I usually enjoy taking part in (and supporting) are the Velothon and the Cardiff Half Marathon.

Unfortunately, I missed the Velothon this

THE PARKS WERE FULL OF CHILDREN PLAYING TENNIS, IMAGINING THEY WERE ANDY MURRAY OR JOHANNA KONTA year, but it’s a fantastic event for Cardiff and a great way to see the picturesque landscapes around South Wales. Everywhere you cycle along the route, passing through villages and towns, there is always plenty of rousing support urging you on, particularly at Caerphilly Mountain.

The Cardiff Half Marathon is now the

third biggest road race in the UK, following the London Marathon and the Great North Run. It’s a great event – I always enjoy cheering people along and seeing the different charities that runners are supporting. Yet another example of sport inspiring people.

I love watching my old teammate Gareth ‘Alfie’ Thomas and his ‘Alfie’s Angels’ as they progress through the training and then finally to the event itself.

It would be a challenge I’d definitely enjoy competing in if it weren’t for my ‘dodgy’ knee – well, that will continue to be my excuse...

I’m sure that whatever sport people attempt, they all have their own stories to tell, or sense of satisfaction from reaching their goals.

Sport has always been a huge part of my life and I hope it will continue to figure prominently in the future. Here’s to all of you being inspired by sport in some way – good luck, and enjoy!

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

For more, see cardiffblues.com

XXXXXXX XXXXX

GIVE THEM

48 HOURS THAT WILL HAVE THEM TRYING TO MOVE INTO YOUR GUEST ROOM ON A PERMANENT BASIS

O GUEST APPEARANCES Got friends coming for the weekend?

Show them your stamping ground in all its glory...

By K AT I E K I SSOON

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

h, you really must come to Cardiff!” you said to them a couple of months ago.

And now it’s Friday evening and they’re here, those visiting friends from mouthy Manchester, effervescent Edinburgh or well-heeled Cheltenham. And let’s not forget those dear old Londoners, who think everyone in Wales calls each other ‘boyo’ (who actually does that?) and that you can’t get chorizo west of Guildford.

It’s always good to see our friends from other cities, of course, but sometimes they need reminding that high-class, cosmopolitan, boundary-pushing leisure experiences are not exclusive to their own patch. After all, having undergone a remarkable transformation over the last decade or so (with more to come), Cardiff, as we know, is now one of the UK’s coolest, buzziest destinations.

So, next time your out-of-town pals arrive on your doorstep saying, “I guess there’s not much to do around here,” just smile knowingly, and give them 48 hours that’ll have them trying to move into the guest room on a permanent basis.

WEEKENDER

with the bespoke tasting menu, created for each and every table); or, for more casual eats, chow down at glorious gastropubs The Longhouse in St Nicholas or The Hare & Hounds in Aberthin, for the ultimate in Londoner-taunting rustic chic and self-confident swagger.

There’s more: the innovative, Keralanstyle food of Mint & Mustard and The Purple Poppadom’s nouvelle Indian cuisine; Southernstyle barbecue food, cooked ‘low and slow’, at Hang Fire Southern Kitchen in Barry; The Potted Pig, where you can feast on insanely good suckling pig; The Classroom, serving fantastic, European-style dishes cooked by talented trainee chefs; superlative street food (Street Food Circus, Depot), locally-brewed craft beer (Pipes, Roath Brewery etc), brilliant delis (Wally’s, Cheese Pantry)... we could go on and on.

And if your visitors are here on the weekend of 16-17 September, Abergavenny Food Festival is always worth a little jaunt with its markets, chef demos, tasting workshops, and more – star chefs this year include Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Tom Kerridge and Olia Hercules. Your house guests will love it all – with a bit of luck, it might stop them quacking on about Borough Market for five minutes.

Thrills and spills at Cardiff International White Water; and (below) Avo it large! A hangovercuring brunch at KIN+ILK

FOR THE CHAMPAGNE CHARLIES

FOR THE CULTURE VULTURES

Shake off the week, and their long motorway drive, with a glass or three of Friday night fizz at Park Plaza’s Laguna Bar. They do a great range of classic, signature and champagne cocktails, and there’s a resident DJ every Friday and Saturday from 9pm until late. In short, it’s a place your chums can wear their Missoni maxi dresses and Gucci brogues and meet all your high-achieving friends ( just so they know we have brain surgeons and brand consultants here, too).

Or, for quirky cocktails to rival anything in Westbourne Grove or Hoxton, we might head to speakeasy-style bar The Dead Canary, where you can sample a new drinks menu inspired by the Middle Welsh folklore of the Mabinogion – try the Sun In The West, made with Mezan XO, Appleton Signature Jamaican rum, passion flower syrup, pressed pineapple, hibiscus tea and lime.

Either way, we’d eventually move on to Dirty Martini, beloved of metropolitan movers and shakers for its glam interior and bespoke range of martinis and cocktails. Or we might hit the aptly-monikered Lab 22, for unusual, scienceinspired tipples. Then we’d go home and order a bit of tasty Mexican, Turkish, Lebanese or Japanese food, because – look, guys! – Cardiff has Deliveroo, too.

There are still, bafflingly, some out-of-towners who don’t think ‘contemporary arts’ when they hear the word ‘Cardiff’. Big mistake. If your theatre-loving mates are keen patrons of, say, Bristol’s Tobacco Factory or the Edinburgh Fringe, take them to see a play or production at Wales Millennium Centre, Chapter or Sherman Theatre; the latter in particular generates the sort of fresh, relevant shows that national critics fall head over heels in love with.

You’ll definitely want to get friends to stay during the Sherman’s major autumn production, w

FOR THE FOODIE FRIENDS

Despite what Jay Rayner says, Cardiff’s food scene is thriving. There are just so many good, lively places to go: glorious, northern Spanishstyle food, slow-cooked over charcoal at Asador 44; hangover-curing brunches at KIN+ILK and great cheese and coffee at Penylan Pantry; Michelin-starred, innovative fine dining at Restaurant James Sommerin (wow your visitors

Sherman Theatre’s award-winning shows are the hottest tickets in town

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 17

WEEKENDER

a radical reimagining of Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard (13-28 October, supported by the National Theatre), set in Pembrokeshire in 1980. And if your pals are the sort with lifetime membership of the Tate Modern, a trip to Cardiff’s National Museum will not disappoint.

On until 3 September is their major Gillian Ayres retrospective, featuring the work of the pioneering abstract painter, one of the most revered artists of her generation; and the ‘Bacon To Doig’ show (until 31 January 2018) features work by prominent 20th-century British artists and sculptors, including Francis Bacon, Lucian Freud, David Hockney, Grayson Perry and other such art world illuminati.

FOR THE SPORTY ONES

Wembley Stadium and Wimbledon are all well and good, but really, there’s nothing like match-day in Cardiff. Rugby takes precedence, of course, whether that’s watching Wales play at the cauldron that is the Principality Stadium, or taking in a Cardiff Blues match, where you’ll be able to watch British Lions hero Sam Warburton do his stuff at the Arms Park.

There’s always football, too: always outspoken and colourful, Cardiff City boss Neil Warnock is leading the club in the right direction, so we fully expect them to be in the frame for promotion to the Premier League this coming season. Or go see Cardiff Devils – the city’s buccaneering ice hockey team claimed an historic treble last season, and this year promises more exciting exploits, with a European Champions League campaign to navigate. And your adventure-seeking outof-town friends really can’t go wrong with an action-packed day of thrills and spills at Cardiff International White Water, with everything from white-water rafting to stand-up paddleboarding and hot-dogging (not as rude as it sounds!).

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

SHAKE OFF THE WEEK WITH A TIPPLE OR THREE

(Above) Bespoke cocktails at speakeasy-style bar, The Dead Canary; (Below) Independent boutiques and cool brands at Cardiff’s Morgan Quarter

FOR THE INSTAGRAMMERS

If your friends are generous enough to share their every waking moment with the internet, the very least you can do as a supportive host is introduce them to some pretty photography locations during their stay. You could hire bikes and do the Taff Trail, which goes all the way to the idyllic Brecon Beacons National Park, taking in crashing weirs rich with wildlife, impressive mountain backdrops and, of course, Castell Coch, the 19th-century Gothic revival castle built above the village of Tongwynlais.

Or there’s Penarth, perfect for meandering through tree-lined streets and lovely parks and gardens that handily link the seafront with the town centre. Whatever the weather, a slow amble up (or down) the splendid Esplanade, with its beautifully restored Victorian pier – with gallery, café and cinema – and views across the Severn Estuary, is always welcome. You could also take the attractive coastal path leading out to Lavernock Point, where Marconi received the first radio transmission over water from Flat Holm island – a bit of local knowledge to impress your chums with. For proper indulgence, boutique hotel Holm House is a real treat, with a luxury spa and stylish restaurant, offering more of those unique Penarth views over the water.

And as you’re pretty close to the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, the Vale Trails (10 coastal and

WEEKENDER

inland walks right across the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan, designed to get families into the great outdoors – see visitthevale.com) are a great way to explore. Try the eight-mile Ogmore-by-Sea walk (there’s also a shorter four-mile taster version), with wonderful natural views such as the Merthyr Mawr sand dunes, Dunraven Bay, Ogmore Castle and more. Or go for the ninemile Glamorgan Heritage Coast trail, with cliffs, nature reserves and ancient churches offering spectacular sights along the way. Just watch your pals amuse themselves by taking selfies against sunsets and agonising over whether to filter with Valencia or X-Pro II.

FOR THE DIE-HARD SHOPPERS

If you count ardent fashionistas amongst your weekend companions, take them and their credit cards to the retail behemoth that is St David’s Dewi Sant, where the likes of Michael Kors, Vivienne Westwood, Hugo Boss et al will have them enthusiastically flashing the plastic. There are indie fashion boutiques adding essential heart and soul to the retail landscape, too – Kiti in Pontcanna, for example, which stocks exquisite garb from exclusive European labels such as Indi & Cold, Muted Tones, Reiko and others; what owner Gwenno doesn’t know about the season’s

Nash Point in the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan, just begging to be explored

best, most wearable trends isn’t worth knowing.

And they’re bound to love award-winning contemporary jeweller Anne Morgan in Penarth, too, who exhibits her own handmade work alongside that of more than 30 other renowned designer-makers.

Fellas, meanwhile, can get their fashion fix at Morgan Menswear (they stock Oliver Spencer and Universal Works), bespoke outfitters Hawkes and fine footwear retailer The Brogue Trader, all located at the Morgan Quarter. And for unique little souvenirs or something chi-chi to take home, lifestyle/gifts/homeware shop Home By Kirsty and interiors boutique Pad Deco (Missoni Home, Curiousa & Curiousa lighting) always have quirky, covetable, on-trend stuff.

And that’s not to mention Cardiff’s gorgeous green spaces and parks, excellent schools, a thriving creative culture, the exciting new Central Square development (due for completion next year) in the heart of the city, reflecting its ambition to be amongst Europe’s most successful cities, and other such immersive goings-on.

All that’s left to do is have a peep into a couple of estate agents’ windows and tell your friends to strike now before house prices rise to London levels. Then go home, put the kettle on, and wait for the penny to drop.

YOU HAVE BEEN READING...

Those all-important websites for your visiting out-of-towners to Google

ARTS & CULTURE Chapter chapter.org

National Museum Cardiff museumwales.ac.uk Sherman Theatre shermantheatre.co.uk Wales Millennium Centre wmc.org.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Dirty Martini dirtymartini.uk.com

Street Food Circus streetfoodcircus.co.uk

Kiti kiticymru.com

Hang Fire Southern Kitchen hangfiresouthernkitchen.com

Wally’s Deli wallysdeli.co.uk

Michael Kors michaelkors.co.uk

The Hare & Hounds hareandhoundsaberthin.com

LEISURE

Morgan Menswear morganmenswear.co.uk

Lab 22 lab22cardiff.com Laguna Bar lagunakitchenandbar.com

Holm House holmhousehotel.com

Pad Deco paddeco.com

SIGHTSEEING

St David’s Dewi Sant stdavidscardiff.com

Castell Coch cadw.gov.wales

Abergavenny Food Festival abergavennyfoodfestival.com

Longhouse longhousewales.com

Asador 44 asador44.co.uk

Mint & Mustard mintandmustard.com

Cheese Pantry Twitter: @cheesepantry

Penylan Pantry penylanpantry.com

The Classroom theclassroom.wales

The Potted Pig thepottedpig.com

The Brogue Trader thebroguetrader.com

The Dead Canary thedeadcanary.co.uk

Purple Poppadom purplepoppadom.com

Hawkes hawkesbespokeoutfitters.co.uk

Depot depotcardiff.com

Restaurant James Sommerin jamessommerinrestaurant.co.uk

Home By Kirsty homebykirsty.com

Vivienne Westwood viviennewestwood.com

Vale Trails visitthevale.com

SPORT

SHOPPING

Cardiff Blues cardiffblues.com

Anne Morgan Jewellery annemorgan.co.uk

Cardiff City cardiffcityfc.co.uk Cardiff Devils cardiffdevils.com Cardiff International White Water ciww.com

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

28 July – 30 August

A new play about the life of celebrated comedian Benny Hill, and outspoken entertainer Stifyn Parri, both at Chapter; Tom Odell headlines the Burning Lantern festival

Plays/Shows/ Performance 1- 1 2 AUG US T

THE ADDAMS FAMILY Uncle Fester, Lurch, Pugsley and co return in this heart-warming musical comedy.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 5 AUG US T

FLOSSY AND BOO’S CURIOSITY SHOP Interactive show for all the family, filled with songs, stories, music and bizarre characters.

Penarth Pier Pavilion; penarthpavilion.co.uk 16 -2 6 AUG US T

HAIRSPRAY Baltimore, 1962: Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, is on a mission to follow her dreams and dance her way onto national TV, in the

popular comedy musical.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

Comedy 3 1 JU LY

DANIEL SIMONSEN Work-in-progress from the Norwegian comic and Edinburgh Comedy Awards’ Best Newcomer, as seen on Vic and Bob’s House Of Fools.

Chapter; chapter.org 4 & 1 8 AU GU ST

DRONES COMEDY CLUB Comedian Clint Edwards – a regular co-host on Rhod Gilbert’s BBC Radio Wales show – presents routines from the best up-and-coming stand-ups.

Chapter; chapter.org 3 0 - 3 1 AU GU ST

STIFYN PARRI: SHUT YOUR MOUTH Typically outrageous one-man

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

show (one in English, one in Welsh) from the outspoken entertainer and impresario – a cheeky, charming and eclectic mix of comic and poignant anecdotes, drawing on his showbiz life.

Chapter; chapter.org

12 AUG U S T

Music

BURNING LANTERN Music event and family country fayre, with Tom Odell, Jack Savoretti, The Shires, Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, Zervas & Pepper and more, plus street food village, kids’ area, local craft beers and other such goodies.

St Fagans National History Museum; burninglantern.com

5 AUG UST

16 AUG U S T

NATIONAL YOUTH ORCHESTRA OF WALES Featuring Strauss’ Der Rosenkavalier, Britten’s Four Sea Interludes from Peter Grimes, and Debussy’s La Mer, conducted by Carlo Rizzi.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 6 AUG UST

FUCHSIA Tony Durant’s psych/prog/folk/ rock collective reconvene.

Chapter; chapter.org

LARKINS Rip-roaring indie anthems from the rising Manchester quartet.

The Moon; @TheMoonCardiff 28 AUG U S T

CJ RAMONE Former Ramones bass player, promoting his latest album, American Beauty.

Clwb Ifor Bach; clwb.net 29 AUG U S T

TRICOT All-female Japanese alt-rockers.

Clwb Ifor Bach; clwb.net

W H AT ’ S O N

ARTS

Art UNTI L 2 7 AUG UST

JODIE HATCHER: METALWORK Beautiful sculptural objects made from thin copper strips.

Craft In The Bay; makersguildinwales.org.uk UNTI L 3 S E PTE MBE R

AGATHA CHRISTIE: A LIFE IN PHOTOGRAPHS New exhibition illustrating the life of the ‘queen of crime’, with rarely seen photographs, letters and personal belongings from the author’s private collection.

National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk UNTI L 3 S E PTE MBE R

GILLIAN AYRES Major showcase of work from the Turner Prize-nominated painter, one of the leading and most revered abstract artists of her generation, no less.

National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk

Quiffs and riffs: highly-tipped indie quartet, Larkins, play The Moon on 16 August

Wales’ artists past and present, including Gwen John, Augustus John, John Piper and others.

Martin Tinney Gallery; artwales.com

re-evaluating the life, work and last days of celebrated comedian, writer and actor, Benny Hill.

Performed by Liam Tobin.

Chapter; chapter.org

8 AU GU ST – 24 SEP TEMBER

16 SEP TEMBER

UNTI L 9 S E PTE MBE R

SUMMER EXHIBITION Changing exhibition of new work by over 50 emerging and established artists, across a variety of media.

Albany Gallery; albanygallery.com UNTI L 2 4 N O V E MBE R

MEGAN COPE & HELEN JOHNSON Joint exhibition of large-scale paintings and video work, exploring the complex colonial and cultural relationship between Australia and Britain, via notions of identity, power and social history.

Chapter; chapter.org UNTI L 3 1 JANUARY 2 0 1 8

BACON TO DOIG: MODERN MASTERPIECES FROM A PRIVATE COLLECTION Featuring work by prominent 20th-century British artists and sculptors, including Francis Bacon, Lucian Freud, Barbara Hepworth, David Hockney, Grayson Perry and more.

National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk 2 AUG US T – 2 S EPTE MBE R

SUMMER SHOW With specially selected work by

POPPIES: WEEPING WINDOW Dramatic cascade/installation comprising several thousand handmade ceramic poppies, commemorating the centenary of the First World War. The Senedd; 1418now.org.uk

Family ONGOING

DOCTOR WHO EXPERIENCE Experience mind-blowing special effects, face up to Who baddies and fly the TARDIS through time and space.

Porth Teigr, Cardiff Bay; doctorwhoexperience.com

JOHN HEGLEY The inimitable performance poet riffs on subjects ranging from Keats and Daleks to soot, belief, and osmosis. Shows at 2.30pm (family-friendly) and 7.30pm.

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk

TUESDAY 8 AU G U S T

CARDIFF CITY v PORTSMOUTH Carabao Cup, kick-off 7.45pm.

Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk SATURDAY 1 2 AU G U S T

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

Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk

TUESDAY 1 5 AU G U S T 14 DEC EMBER

JOHN OWEN-JONES A spellbinding evening of musical theatre in prospect from Wales’ own Broadway and West End leading man.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

Sport

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

Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk F R IDAY 1 8 AU G U S T

GLAMORGAN v MIDDLESEX NatWest T20 Blast, 7pm.

SSE Swalec; glamorgancricket.com

THUR SDAY 3 AUG UST U N TI L 3 SE PT EMBER

CARDIFF BAY BEACH Urban beach with traditional seaside attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

Cardiff Bay; cardiff-events.com

Book Now 6 - 9 SE PTE MBER

BENNY New play by Owen Thomas,

GLAMORGAN v GLOUCESTERSHIRE NatWest T20 Blast, 6.30pm.

SSE Swalec; glamorgancricket.com

SATURDAY 2 6 AU G U S T

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

Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk

MO NDAY 7 AUG UST

ENGLAND v INDIA Under-19 One-Day International, 10.30am.

SSE Swalec; glamorgancricket.com

MO NDAY 2 8 AU G U S T

GLAMORGAN v SUSSEX Specsavers County Championship, 11am.

Rhos-on-Sea; glamorgancricket.com

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

H S A CL HE T F O

T

CORPORATES

eam building, training and Corporate Social Responsibility activity that packs a punch can be stressful and time-consuming to organise. Luckily, there’s a kick-ass challenge from The Wallich, a Welsh homelessness charity, that ticks those boxes.

Clash of the Corporates is a POW-worthy fundraising competition that’s challenging businesses to raise money to help prevent homelessness in Wales. In an Apprenticestyle task, corporate SuperTeams need to pull together, be resourceful, creative and organised to return as much profit from a £50 investment in just 50 days.

Kicking off on 12 September, the SuperTeams will aim to raise £2,000 and zap the competition to win awards for “Most Money Raised”, “Most Creative Idea” and “Best Teamwork”, which will be presented at a good, old-fashioned award celebration.

The Wallich encourages participants to develop new or existing SuperSkills, such as leadership and communication, in this fast-paced race to the finish. Organisations such as Nationwide Building Society, Minuteman Press, and JLT Premier Pensions are already poised to take on the challenge.

The Wallich is a charity that is in the business of getting people off the streets, keeping people off the streets and creating opportunities for people and funds raised from Clash of the Corporates will be invested into these three principles.

Sign up now for Clash of the Corporates 2017. www.thewallich.com/cotc17 ☎ 029 20574 772 ✉ corporate@thewallich.net a @TheWallich

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

CUTTING EDGE

Introducing SANDS, your concept Aveda salon based in Penylan.

S

ands Hair is one of a select few Aveda ‘concept salons’. We follow Aveda’s vision, mission and beliefs to offer you a customised experience that creates balance in body, mind and spirit. Delivering inspirational and high quality styles since 1998, the salon provides a welcoming, calm and relaxing environment and a chance to unwind. Inside our welcomingly quaint salon, the decor is light, minimalist and non-fussy.

Using the finest Aveda organic hair products, our stylists are not afraid to negotiate styles with you to ensure you get the cut and colour that really suits you.

Free consultations are provided, taking account of skin tone, face shape, lifestyle and after-care regime. Our stylists provide exceptional precision cutting and colouring techniques.

Education is something that the Salon team

of 30 particularly love about the Aveda brand.

Advanced training is regularly provided by the Aveda Academy in London and through ongoing training with Denise Allen, formerly creative director at Vidal Sassoon for ten years.

Inspired by the Ayurvedic philosophy, we also offer clients a chance to unwind with a complimentary consultation and stressrelieving hand massage.

If you visit at lunchtime, we can also arrange for food and drink refreshments and, weather permitting, clients can even make us of the salon’s beautiful courtyard garden as a cool seating area whilst waiting.

For those with busy lifestyles, 7am appointments are available to enable you to have a cut, colour or blow dry before work.

Sunday at the salon offers a uniquely relaxing experience, inspired by the Aveda philosophy, where clients can enjoy a hand

or head massage with their service to make sure that they feel fully rejuvenated when they leave the salon.

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

F E AT U R E

READ ALL ABOUT IT! INTERIORS SPECIAL

Co-writers IAN HISLOP and NICK NEWMAN reveal the inspiration behind their successful stage play, The Wipers Times, the extraordinary story of a satirical newspaper published on the front lines during World War I

By H UG O BA L L

Crank ‘er up!

26 42 II CARDIFF CLIFTON LIFE LIFE II www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk

T H E AT R E

Is it gin o’clock yet?

W

e’re all familiar with Ian Hislop’s razor-sharp quips on Have I Got News For You (he’s the only panellist to have appeared in every show since it started in 1990) but what you may not know is that he’s also one half of a top-class writing duo that’s been going 45 years. Hislop and co-writer Nick Newman met as students at Ardingly College in Sussex in 1972 and have been writing together ever since, on Private Eye magazine, satirical ’80s puppet show Spitting Image and The Harry Enfield Show, amongst others.

Their latest collaboration is The Wipers Times, a stage play based on the true story of a satirical newspaper published by British soldiers fighting in the trenches in Ypres (mis-pronounced Wipers

by British soldiers), during the First World War. In a bombed-out building, two officers discover a printing press and create a newspaper – resolutely cheerful, subversive and very funny – for the troops, designed to lift the spirits of the men on the frontline. Defying enemy bombardment, gas attacks and the disapproval of the top brass, the newspaper rolled off the press for two years – an extraordinary tribute to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity.

How did the original idea for The Wipers Times come about?

Nick Newman: Ian did a documentary about 15 years ago about the First World War and came across The Wipers Times as part of that. He showed it to me and we both thought it was the most amazing story we’d ever come across. It seemed to us almost too good for a documentary, and because we write together we immediately thought, ‘Is there a way of getting what’s funny on the page, on to the stage?’

I THINK IT’S AN ESSENTIALLY BRITISH THING TO SAY, ‘YES, WE CAN LAUGH IN THE FACE OF DEATH’

ARTS

So you’ve seen copies of the original newspaper, then?

Ian Hislop: Yes, there are a few bound sets. The regiment’s got one and they turn up in old ladies’ attics. One delightful lady sent me hers. She said, “You’ll want this, but it’s still got mud on it.”

Newman: The paper itself is an odd mix of spoofs and some terrible poetry, but amongst all of that, there are some fantastic jokes. It’s quite subversive. There are bits in it, like a letter from a fictional correspondent saying, ‘Dear Sir, under what circumstances is it permissible to shoot a superior officer?’ and he comes back with: ‘Almost all. There are always mitigating circumstances…’

Hislop: And that’s really surprising – you think, ‘Blimey, that’s not the picture we had of life in the trenches’. The Wipers Times, we both thought, was funny then and it’s funny now. We’d have been happy to write those jokes. I feel as if Nick and I are kindred spirits of the editors, Jack Pearson and Fred Roberts. They are our heroes, eking out this wonderful newspaper under incredibly difficult circumstances.

Newman: There are similarities with the stuff we do for Private Eye. There are situations where you’re hit with really tough news, like when Diana dies or 9/11, and it makes you think, ‘Should we be doing jokes? What is the best response to this?’, but I think it’s an essentially British thing to say ‘Yes, we can laugh in the face of death’. As a nation, we’re not really suited to mawkishness and this is the strength of The Wipers Times. There’s an awful lot of literature about the First World War, which is all about loss and tragedy and the futility of it all. That’s there in The Wipers Times, written between the lines, but the first reaction is to blow a big raspberry at the whole situation. w

You booze, you lose...

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

ARTS

T H E AT R E

IT FEELS AUTHENTIC AND TERRIFYING...

THERE ARE SKETCHES THAT MAKE YOUR BLOOD RUN COLD

Which is remarkable, given that they were stuck right in the middle of a war zone...

Hislop: Someone said that, with The Wipers Times, what they do is ‘determined flippancy’, which I think is a fantastic description. They didn’t do it because they were idiots or twits, they did it because it was how they wanted to survive.

I’m always amazed to see films about the First World War. They’re very good and very moving but you don’t see a joke, you don’t see anybody smile – that’s not reality, is it?

Newman: There are sketches in it that make your blood run cold. It feels so authentic and terrifying, but amongst all the tension and almost certain death as they’re about to go over the top, they are still making jokes and that’s a great tonic for the human spirit.

Hislop: I think that’s why we admire Pearson and Roberts so much. Part of our doing this is to preserve their memory in a sense – it’s done in their honour.

Newman: Neither of them received any recognition in their own lifetime. The Wipers Times itself was quite famous for a brief window after the war, but Roberts should have come back to England and edited Punch, but he was never published again.

Hislop: He wrote a bit of a memoir but didn’t get a publisher. We only found it when one of the relatives gave it to us; it’s unfinished but full of amazing stuff.

So, how close to actual events is the play?

Newman: All of it is true. We haven’t made up any of the factual detail although the order of events has been twisted around a bit. That was one of the great joys of the whole research process – coming across these brief memoirs by our heroes made the reality so much richer. They were big fans of booze and really did fight against the Temperance Society who wanted to have all alcohol banned in the trenches. So beyond the

(Above) “Don’t look now, but I think that’s Hislop sitting in the third row...”; (Below) The man himself, with co-writer Nick Newman

initial story we discovered all these other conflicts – them against the brass hats, the Temperance Society and then, of course, finally, them against the Germans.

Hislop: Then we found out that Roberts won the Military Cross, and we now also know he was mentioned in dispatches three times. Pearson won the DSO [Distinguished Service Order] twice and also the Military Cross. They were extraordinarily gallant.

Newman: Yes, it’s not as if they were doing this newspaper in safety well behind the lines. They were on the front line, going over the top, taking gun emplacements and being decorated for it.

Hislop: They published 23 issues from about 1916 to 1918. There are gaps, of course, due to them being obliged to fight a war. And that’s the way they talk about it – ‘The damned high command will insist on us going and fighting from time to time’. That was their sense of humour.

The Wipers Times is at The New Theatre, Cardiff, from 12-16 September, and there’s a post-show talk (free to ticket-holders) with Ian Hislop and Nick Newman after the 12 September performance. For more info, see newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

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

FILM

ARTS

(Clockwise from left) Queerama, Britain On Film: LGBT Britain and Tom Of Finland

TO BE PERFECTLY QUEER To mark the 50th year since landmark LGBTQ rights legislation and Cardiff’s upcoming Pride Cymru, Chapter looks at representations of queer culture on screen

By JA M I E R E E S

F I L M O F T H E MO NT H

SHOT! A cinematic adventure into the mind of Mick Rock, one of music’s greatest living photographers This compelling documentary points the lens back at the pioneering snapper, from the glam rock shimmer of Bowie’s London to the snarl of NYC punk and beyond, featuring his images of game-changing icons such as Blondie (Debbie Harry pictured above), Queen, Lou Reed, Iggy Pop and more.

Showing at Chapter from 26-30 August, certificate 15

T

he first film in the season is Handsome Devil (15, 4-10 August), John Butler’s witty Irish charmer, following the turbulent path of a geeky 16-year-old boy as he navigates his way through a year at boarding school. Ned is not like the other boys.

He would much rather hide away in his room and listen to David Bowie than play rugby with the sports-obsessed lads who surround him. But Ned’s isolated existence looks set to be upended when he is assigned a new room-mate, a brooding hunk named Conor. It seems like a match made in hell, but appearances can be deceiving. Unapologetically light-hearted, yet overflowing with intelligence and insight, this trip back to school provides the perfect lesson in the power of being yourself, and the strength it takes not to compromise.

In Tom Of Finland (18, 11-17 August), Touko Laaksonen, a decorated officer, returns home after a harrowing and heroic experience serving his country in World War II, but life in Finland during peacetime proves equally distressing.

He finds Helsinki rampant with persecution of homosexuals, with men around him even being pressured to marry women and have children.

Touko finds refuge in his liberating art, specialising in homo-erotic drawings of muscular men, free of inhibitions. His work – under his signature ‘Tom of

Finland’ moniker – eventually became the emblem of a generation of men and fanned the flames of a gay revolution.

Featuring short films from 1909 to 1994, Britain On Film: LGBT Britain (PG, 25 & 30 August) is a programme documenting a century in which homosexuality went from crime to Pride, via decades of profoundly courageous activism, and the shifting attitudes to LGBT people and their rights during a time of explosive social change.

The programme includes some of the earliest known representations of LGBT people on screen, such as a 1925 film on Cutie Cattaro, a boxer more interested in flirting than fighting. Exploring the struggles and identity politics of the ‘80s and ‘90s, the films cover early AIDS victims recounting their painful experiences; the formation of the Gay Black Group, an early instance of intersectional thinking; and the 1980 fight for transgender rights in the European Court.

Finally, mining the jewels of the BFI archive, Queerama (15, 25-31 August) tells the story of an extraordinary century of gay experiences, set to a gem of a soundtrack by John Grant and Goldfrapp.

Directed by Daisy Asquith and produced by visionary Welsh production company, ie ie, the film takes us into the relationships, desires, fears and expressions of gay men and women in the 20th century – a period of incredible change.

For more: chapter.org, pridecymru.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 33

WHO WILL LOOK AFTER YOUR FAMILY? Trusts Wills

Probate

Court of Protection

Estate Planning

SUNDAY LUNCH MENU SERVED 12-5PM

Power of Attorney

Tel: 02920 706444 | 02920 388398 WWW.SINCLAIRSLAW.CO.UK Charles House Church Way Cardiff, CF10 2HE

36 Windsor Terrace Penarth, CF64 1AB

Receding tide oil on canvas Lorraine Newman Howells

Light on Llangorse lake Oil on panel Robert Sawtell

Bowie Marquetry Emma Wood

Butterfly etching on copper Annette Townsend

WINGS OF SUMMER

OUR SUMMER SHOW STARTS ON 29TH JULY Do join us for some great new artists The Old Probate Registry, Cardiff Rd, Llandaff, Cardiff CF5 2DQ. T : 029 20554469 E : art@galleryoffthewall.com. Open Tuesday–Friday 9.30-5.30 Sat 10.00-4.00 www.galleryoffthewall.com

2 courses £16 | 3 course £20 Where possible we source our Sunday lunch produce locally. Our beef is from Cefn Mawr farm in the Usk Valley, our lamb is from Blaengwawr Farm in Aberdare & our pork is from Raglan.

Longhouse, The Tumble, St Nicholas, Cardiff CF5 6SA Reserve A Table: 02921 157754

www.longhousewales.com

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1. BEAUTY SPOT

2. EAR, EAR

3. IN THE DARK

4. GOOD DAY SUNSHINE

5. PEAK CHIC

Goji hair and beauty treatments (various prices) Need to get beach-ready before you go? Goji will sort you out with the necessary cuts and colours, manicures, pedicures, waxing, threading etc – for both men and women – at their shiny new Pontcanna salon From Goji Hair, 175 Kings Road, Pontcanna; gojihair.com

Beoplay H5 wireless headphones, £199 Light, portable, with powerful sound and up to five hours playing time – now you just need a killer Spotify playlist From Bang & Olufsen, 12 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff; beoplay.com

Tortoiseshell half-frame hexagon sunglasses, £185 Proper, head-turning, pop star shades. Entourage and hangers-on not supplied From Vivienne Westwood, 55 The Hayes, Cardiff; viviennewestwood.com

bareMinerals Prep Step Mineral Shield lotion, £22.10 Helps protect your skin from sun damage and prolongs your make-up base – two for one!

From Central Pharmacy, 63-67 Wellfield Road, Roath; escentual.com

The Hundreds Hub ‘Dad’ cap, £35 Because dads are cool – just add Corbyn t-shirt and shorts From size?, St David’s Dewi Sant, Cardiff; size.co.uk

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

7 ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING

8

GET AWAY! ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR YOUR SUMMER HOLIDAY

10

9

6. TAKE IT AS RED

7. DRAW THE LINE

8. WORD HAS IT

9. STRAP LINES

10. PICTURE PERFECT

Eastpak Tranverz extrasmall cabin case, £68 Loads of packing space, yet small enough to be stowed in overhead compartments on the plane. We feel a city break coming on...

From John Lewis, St David’s Dewi Sant, Cardiff; johnlewis.com

Striped kaftan, £110 Stylish and easy to wear – pair with simple espadrilles and a sunhat From Karen Millen, St David’s Dewi Sant, Cardiff; karenmillen.com

The Noise Of Time by Julian Barnes & The Sellout by Paul Beatty, £8.99 each The former has been described as Barnes’ masterpiece, the latter is a Man Booker Prize winner.

Holiday reading, sorted From Waterstones, 2A The Hayes, Cardiff; waterstones.com

Mira embossed leather sandals, £120 Available in pale gold or silver – great with a printed sundress or flowing kaftan (now, where have we seen one of those?)

From Michael Kors, 19 The Hayes, Cardiff; michaelkors.co.uk

Leica Sofort instant camera, £249 Film photography never looked so cool. It even takes selfies...

From Camera Centre, 14-16 Morgan Arcade; cameracentreuk.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk II CLIFTON CARDIFF LIFE LIFE II 37 www.mediaclash.co.uk 69

dv er t

OF th F is * a m en tio n

20 %

yo u

w he n

Relax with a drink in our fully licenced man cave, with the best view in Pontcanna!

• Appointments can be made in advance • Experienced barbers offering fades and full scissor work • Cuts from only £17 • Late nights Wednesday and Thursday • Try ‘The Full Goji’: wash, cut & finish plus beard trim or cut-throat shave £35 *Terms & Conditions: One offer per person, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, appointments must be made before 31st August

First Floor, 175 Kings Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff, CF11 9DF 02921 321211 / hello@gojihair.com / www.gojihair.com / ba x goji hair

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All organic hair products and colour Beauty treatments now available Great Lengths extensions specialist Olaplex and Nanokeratin treatments Cut & finish from £38 Goji Junior for children, open on Sundays 175 Kings Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff, CF11 9DF 02921 321211 / hello@gojihair.com / www.gojihair.com / ba x goji hair

SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

Per Una dress, £59, and shoes, £45, from Marks & Spencer

HOT STUFF Summer’s in full swing! Still time to party and flaunt those maxi dresses, cute midis or trusty two-pieces, and see out the season in style

A

staple item of any summer wardrobe is a killer dress. If you’re looking for a magical maxi, we adore Reiss’ Elle printed version, with a layered drop hem – total style creds. If you want something a bit more daring – be it midi or mini – Vivienne Westwood has, as you might expect, various stand-out examples.

And if you’re even more outré – let’s face it, who isn’t in summer? – try rocking an immaculate mini skirt and tee combo.

The key to channelling your inner Mary Quant is to pick a key piece and build your outfit around it. Pick a statement skirt, team with a satin blouse and gorgeous stilettos from Michael Kors, and you’ll look be the ultimate sophisticate.

Accessories always provide a slick finish to any outfit, whatever the season, and when it comes to arm candy, block colours are the way to go. With so many amazing examples at Michael Kors, Vivienne Westwood, All Saints etc, you’ll have a job choosing just one. Keep it simple – Links of London have some classic pieces that will take you through the seasons.

All items available at St David’s Dewi Sant in Cardiff at the time of writing. To keep up to date with the latest trends, news and offers, see St David’s on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@StDavidsCardiff), or at stdavidscardiff.com 40 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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1. Vasari Leopard dress, £470, Vivienne Westwood 2. New Fond dress, £410, Vivienne Westwood 3. Cammie leather A-line mini skirt, £225, Reiss 4. Satin blouse, £160, Reiss 5. Elle printed maxi dress, £250, Reiss 6. Botanical bloom skirt, £115, Karen Millen 7. 18ct rose gold Vermeil bracelet, £130, Links of London 8. Venice pouch, £210, Vivienne Westwood 9. Estee cross-strap stiletto sandals, £135, MICHAEL Michael Kors 10. Freedom leather slouchy hobo bag, £228, All Saints www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 41

66 High Street, Cowbridge, CF71 7AH Creating the best in Modern European Cuisine, our ingredients and menus will do the talking...

A FINE DESTINATION Please visit our website www.the-marketplace.co.uk

Book your table today 01446 774 800 | enq@the-marketplace.co.uk

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

CHEESE, PLEASE!

OH, LA FROMAGE!

OWEN DAVIES, from Cardiff’s award-winning Cheese Pantry, nips over to France to sample some superlative cheese Two cheese festivals in a week might seem excessive, but when in France, where cheese is a way of life, there’s no such thing as too much cheese – after all, they consume twice as much as we Brits!

My favourite spot was the Fete des Fromages, held annually in the beautiful town of Rocamadour, with stunning views overlooking the Alzou canyon. The Fete, which has been going for over 25 years, includes live music, attractions for children and a food stall serving the local speciality – mashed potato with lots of stinky cheese, served with green salad and barbecued lamb. Goat’s cheese definitely dominated (there’s a small goat’s cheese named after the town), ranging from a wonderfully fresh variety made that morning through to aged

MasterChef finalist Imran Nathoo

cheeses that resembled the rocks on which the town was built.

As we walked from stall to stall, I couldn’t help thinking how ‘traditional’ everything looked (French cheese is governed by strict regulations), and how in the UK we’re now so lucky to have such a diverse range of really good cheese, with more and more young cheese-makers producing the most wonderful varieties.

It’ll be interesting to see how our cheese industry develops as we finally leave the EU, but here at Cheese Pantry, we will continue to support our dairy farmers and creative cheese-makers. More power to their elbows!

Cheese Pantry is located at Cardiff Central Market. For more: @cheesepantry

Bored of brie? Cheesed off with camembert?

Try these British equivalents, says Owen

PAVE COBBLE Supreme champion at this year’s British Cheese Awards. Shaped like the French Valencay goat’s cheese (covered in ash), but made with ewe’s milk ROLLRIGHT A kind of reblochon/Vacherin Mont D’or hybrid. Bake for the ultimate tartiflette!

HEBRIDEAN BLUE Made to a roquefort-style recipe using goat’s milk. These happy goats all get to roam around on Dartmoor!

KERN Based on a gouda recipe, comparable to a nutty comté. Aged for a minimum of 16 months.

YAHOO FOR NATHOO Following a sell-out run of supper clubs, Cardiff’s very own MasterChef finalist Imran Nathoo is back with more food events. The series kicks off on 2 September at Jacobs Market; hosted with Lost Lands Cinema, there’s a rooftop screening of Jon Favreau’s feelgood movie, Chef, with Imran serving up his take on the much-loved lamb kebab (and paneer for veggies) plus other foodie surprises.

Following that, he will also be returning

AND WE’RE OPEN...

Lots of new Cardiff openings to tell you about, so we’ll rattle through... On the restaurant front, there’s The Humble Onion in Dinas Powys, serving hearty, expertly-made fare, and the muchanticipated Milkwood in Pontcanna, a small, independently-owned bistro run

by Tom and Cerys Furlong and Gwyn Myring (Potted Pig/Porro), based on modern Welsh/British cooking. Over on Whitchurch Road, there’s woodfired pizzas and cocktails at The Brass Beetle, and craft ale/vinyl record shop Pop’n’Hops.

IT’S THE BRITS...

to Pettigrew Tea Rooms for a run of further supper clubs, keeping the summer vibe going well into October. The first of these will take place on 23 September, with a brand-new three course menu.

Says Imran: “Aptly titled ‘Indian Summer’, these events will highlight how my food is evolving and improving while still drawing on my cultural background and heritage.”

For info/tickets, see lostlands.co.uk and kitchenclonc.blogspot.co.uk

M is for Milkwood – see left for more...

And yet more excellent coffee shops are popping up, including the über-cool 200 Degrees (complete with barista school) on Queen Street, and artisan hangout Corner Coffee in High Street Arcade.

If all that wasn’t enough, there’s another Street Food Circus happening, too, with outdoor food festival and night market – this time, they’re pitching up at Cardiff’s Sophia Gardens for five weekends from 25 August onwards. Go check ‘em all out!

For more: @humble_onion, @Milkwoodcdf, @TheBrassBeetle, @Popnhops, 200degs.com, @CornerCoffee_Co, street-food-cardiff.com

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

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Manor Parc Classic cuisine with a modern European twist at the popular country hotel and restaurant in Thornhill

By KOR A GEORGE

W

e all love a gastropub, the traditional boozer has made a comeback, and tapas is the new fast food, but who could deny the appeal of an à la carte dinner in an orangerie overlooking the city?

Keeping alive the splendour of its 19th century origins, Manor Parc country hotel and restaurant is nestled beneath Caerphilly Mountain and prides itself on its long-standing status as an independent, family-run venue.

Expertly prepared by chef Robert Evans, the food here is truly splendid.

Think seasonal produce, classic flavours, and creative, modern dishes imbued with a touch of European flair.

There’s nothing quite like ambling up a winding, country driveway to your dining destination, even if it is by Cardiff taxi.

Perfectly plush, the Manor is reminiscent of a stylish Venetian hotel. There seems to be a space to suit every occasion, whether that’s an intimate, private gourmet gathering, an al fresco dinner for two or a larger party/celebration. There are some surprisingly lovely views to be had, too. First stop is an aperitif on the balcony overlooking the beautifully landscaped gardens. And beyond the hotel’s trademark cedar trees lies an impressive panorama of the city.

Co-owner Mario and his team are true hosts. A warm welcome awaits with a glass of fizz (you’d swear it was Friday!) to accompany the selection of delicious canapés: goat’s cheese and asparagus, arancino balls (as authentically Italian as the hotel’s owners) and smoked

THE FOOD IS TRULY

SPLENDID: THINK SEASONAL PRODUCE, CLASSIC

FLAVOURS AND EUROPEAN

FLAIR

mackerel with beetroot, to name but a few, and all delicious. Already, it’s starting to feel like a good night...

Dinner is served in the newly refurbished Oak Lounge, an intimate space ideal for private dining or even a small wedding party.

First up is chicken liver parfait and apricot, its creamy texture perfectly complemented by the crunchiness of the hazelnut accompaniment (try it with a crisp, cold glass of the Ginestet Sauternes for extra sweet tones).

Then, a heritage tomato salad, a perfect combo of aged Serrano ham, black olives, goats curd and – you guessed it – tomatoes, not just red, but also green, yellow and cherry varieties. A really beautiful starter, it’s set off perfectly by a glass of Puglian Appassimento.

Next up, the fish course – stone bass (which we’re reliably informed is the ‘new’ meatier and far more sustainable sea bass), coupled with the curried undertone of spiced lentils. It’s paired with a Rockferry Pinot Blanc, with its twist of something resembling apple tart, setting off the fish perfectly.

But the highlight of the new summer menu has to be the Celtic Pride beef; perfectly seared, tender and full of flavour, it’s served with olive oil-mashed Jersey Royals, salsify, chard and a thyme jus – truly delightful.

And just when we thought things couldn’t get any better, the first of the desserts is served. Complemented by the silky, figgy tones of a chilled (yes, chilled!) ten year-old port, the chocolate yogurt sorbet is divine. If you’re less of a chocolate fan, then the Hereford strawberries and clotted ice cream are a perfect summer treat, especially when accompanied by the zesty yet honey-sweet flavour of the Palazzina Moscato dessert wine [I hope you won’t be putting all this vino on expenses – Ed]. And, of course, it’d be very rude not to partake of coffee and excellent, dainty petit fours to finish.

With a first-class reputation for dining and its unique spot overlooking the splendour of the ’Diff, there’s nothing about Manor Parc that disappoints. Just another reason to indulge in a bit of midweek dining out...

DINING DETAILS Manor Parc Hotel, Thornhill Road, Thornhill CF14 9UA; Tel: 02920 693723, manorparc.com Opening Hours Lunch noon-2pm, evenings from 6pm (closed Sunday evenings) Prices Starters from £5.50, mains from £14, puds from £5 Child-friendly? Families are very welcome, but best to come sans kids for evening dining Vegetarian choice Good Wine list Great selection that pairs nicely with each course Service/atmosphere The welcome is very warm and friendly, and staff are knowledgeable

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 45

Lex appeal Faster, wilder and more fun to drive than almost any Lexus before it, the remarkable new LC 500 shows the company’s mad streak happily in the ascendent

B

By M AT T BI E L BY

loomin’ heck, what a striking thing.

The Lexus LC has classic coupé proportions – it’s a sleek wedge with absolutely massive wheels – but it’s a hard shape to get your head around.

Challenging, even. (School kids attempting to draw one on the back of notebooks would get confused and give up, we reckon.)

There’s just so much drama to the sharply-angled sheet metal and intricate details that you don’t know quite where to look, save – perhaps – for that huge mesh grille that makes it seem part-basking shark, partelectric razor, and all crowd-stopper.

In the bright colours of the two test cars we tried – a 3.5 V6 hybrid LC500h version in the brightest of yellows, and the 5.0 V8 LC500 model in the richest of reds – it provides real street theatre. This is a deliberately (and outrageously) magnetic beast that

will remain rare enough in the foreseeable future to turn heads wherever it goes, and one designed to force passers-by to reconsider everything they thought they knew about Lexus.

Lexus, of course, is Toyota’s luxury car division and, since it launched 28 years ago, it’s built an enviable reputation for great quality, high comfort levels, good customer service and restrained design. In recent years its become something of a hybrid specialist, too; one day, it’s been suggested, Lexus will become a hybridonly marque, in Europe at least.

What Lexus has always lacked, though, is soulstirring glamour, and part of the new LC’s job is to bring that in abundance. Current Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda is on a mission to make the company’s cars more exciting across the board, and to that end has appointed a former car designer – not the usual engineer or marketing guru – to run Lexus.

In some markets, where they don’t demand a front number plate, this unbroken gob has been known to gobble up cats

CAR REVIEW

The rear, like the front, is a riot of strange angles and intricate details; inside, prominent grab handles tell you that this thing is fast

The LC is a key building block in the company’s new, sportier, shoutier incarnation, designed to bring glamour to the entire range – but the guys at Lexus can’t help themselves, and they’ve made it practical, comfortable and easy-to-live-with, too.

It’s certainly easy to drive. The seating position is excellent, and the leather and woods inside of the highest order – though there are as many flashy bits of design inside the car as out, giving it a flamboyance old Lexus owners would find hard to recognise. (That the boot isn’t the biggest, and the back seats only suitable for short journeys, is par for the course with this sort of car.)

Though it’s very cleverly put together – using lots of aluminium and composite panels over a superrigid steel chassis – the LC is not light, so needs some fairly meaty engines to pull it along.

Enter your two identically priced but very different choices: a clever 3.5 litre V6 petrol hybrid, making 354 bhp (about two thirds from the V6 and a third from an electric motor), or a brutish 5.0 litre/471bhp V8 for the full muscle car experience.

Both have a 10-speed auto with flappy magnesium paddles if you want to make gear changes yourself – it sounds like too many gears, but proves delightfully decisive in the flesh – and do the 0-62mph dash in under five seconds. The V8, though, is the sportier choice – and makes the more thrilling roar.

SHOPPING

To drive, it’s one of those cars – thank numerous driving modes, running from Eco to Sport+ – that can be whatever you want it to be, from relaxing grand tourer to hunkered-down sports car. I found it poised (and even crisp), with precise, delicate steering and a tactile road feel, while the cleveras-you-like suspension soaks up the worst our abandoned tarmac can throw at it.

The Lexus LC is a special car, then, but it’s also up against some pretty special competition – the Porsche 911 and Jaguar F-Type at the sportier end of the spectrum, of course, but also the BMW 6 series and assorted Mercedes. The 911 is still the great driver’s car of this bunch, but it wouldn’t be pushing things to suggest that the Lexus might have its other rivals licked in this regard, and if the looks are a bit love-it-or-hate-it, then I suspect that’s just the way they wanted it.

There’s a fun story about Lexus that tells how their top production line guys are tested on their ability to make an origami cat – using just their non-dominant hand. It’s a great party trick, and demonstrates their top-notch craftsmanship – but it also gives them an eccentric sort of cool. And now they’re making a car to match.

For more: lexus.co.uk

THERE’S SO MUCH DRAMA TO THE SHARPLY-ANGLED SHEET METAL, YOU DON’T KNOW WHERE TO LOOK

AT A GLANCE Car Lexus LC Prices From £75,595, rising to around £85,000 for the fully-loaded model we tested Under the bonnet Either a clever 3.5 litre V6 petrol hybrid in the LC500h, making 354 bhp, or a brutish 5.0 litre V8 in the LC500, making 471bhp. Both come with a 10-speed auto Equipment specs Very high-end, and packed with gadgets and kit; the base model gets 20” wheels, a glass roof with sun-shade and a 12-speaker audio system; the Sport Pack adds the bigger wheels, a (lighter) carbon roof and yet posher front seats; and the Sport+ Pack gives Limited Slip Differential, real-wheel steering and more. (We say go for the Sport+ Pack.) Performance Top speeds are a limited 155mph (hybrid) and 168mph (V8); 0-62mph comes up in 4.4 seconds with the V8 (the hybrid isn’t much slower on paper, but is a less sporting device in the real world); and mpg is where the big difference comes in (44mpg plays 24mpg, or thereabouts.) In a nutshell A bold, striking, in-your-face luxury sports coupé, with bags of comfort and remarkable road manners; Germany, watch out. Dealer Lexus Cardiff, Hadfield Road, Cardiff CF11 8AQ; Tel: 02920 509158; cardiff.lexus.co.uk

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F I N A N C E adverti s in g feat u re

DOWN TO BRASS TAX Worried about Inheritance Tax? Fear not – PENGUIN can help you avoid this unnecessary bill being imposed on your family wealth

A

ccording to HMRC figures, a record amount of Inheritance Tax (IHT) – a total of £5.2 billion – was collected by the government in the past year.

More and more families are finding themselves having to pay – but there are many easy ways to reduce or avoid IHT, all within the legal tax framework.

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

“More and more families are having to pay – but there are many easy ways to reduce or avoid IHT” This is why it is often known as the Voluntary Tax. It starts to hit individual estates at £325,000, or £650,000 for a couple. This level is frozen for several years to come.

There is now another additional allowance for residential home owners – The Residential Nil Rate Band (RNRB) – but this may only apply in certain circumstances.

Family wealth does not have to be extravagant for IHT to be a problem. It is normally paid by those families who do not take steps to deal with it, and avoided by those who do take steps.

If you are concerned that your wealth may be subject to Inheritance Tax, Penguin Wealth LLP, a multi-award winning Cardiff firm of Certified Financial Planners, will be able to help you.

More adventures in party-going

Red Arrows fly-past

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

PAR EXCELLENCE

Celebrity Cup 2017 winners, Team England

Golfing glitterati were out in force for the Celebrity Cup at Celtic Manor Resort, won by Team England.

The two-day tournament saw stars including Gareth Bale, James Nesbitt, Rob Brydon, Mike Tindall, Denise Van Outen and Ronan Keating swap paparazzi for putters to raise funds for cancer support charity, The Marie Keating Foundation.

For more: celtic-manor.com

James Nesbitt Gethin Jones and Craig Bellamy

Gareth Bale keeps his eyes on the ball

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

Event presenters Mark Foster and Chris Hollins snap a selfie

SOCIETY

The real Rob Brydon waves to the crowds...

Denise Van Outen dances the night away at the Celebrity Cup gala dinner Peter Jones chases Mike Tindall with champagne to celebrate an England victory

...while celebrity Rob Brydon lookalike, Anton Du Beke, dances with Zara Phillips

Gareth Bale and girlfriend Emma Rhys-Jones

Ronan Keating performs Boyzone classics at the gala dinner

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

SOCIETY

WONDER WOMEN Some of Wales’ most inspiring women have been recognised at the annual Womenspire Awards, held recently at Wales Millennium Centre. Organised by equality charity, Chwarae Teg, 400 guests attended the prestigious event, which celebrates the personal and professional achievements of women across Wales.

For more: cteg.org.uk/womenspire-17

Morgan Hart, Laura Davies, Hade Turkman and Chris Price Anne Marie Rogan, Rhodri Packman and guests

Emily Roberts with her Woman In The Rural Economy Award Sarah Draper (Inspire Fitness), winner of the Game Changer Award

Cerys Furlong (chief exec, Chwarae Teg) and Joy Kent Samantha Rosie (executive producer, BBC Wales) receives the Creative Sector Award

Jane Hutt AM and Gemma Richards, winner of the Woman in Business/ Enterprise Award

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

SOCIETY

ARTS AND MINDS Held at its temporary home of Llandaff Fields, annual Welsh arts and culture festival Tafwyl – organised by Menter Caerdydd, which promotes the use of the Welsh language in Cardiff – enjoyed another sunny and successful year, with over 38,000 attendees enjoying music performances from the likes of Geraint Jarman, Yws Gwynedd, Candelas and Meic Stevens, plus an expanded street food area, the Big Fish Little Fish family rave, and more.

Geraint Jarman

Candelas

Boo!

For more: tafwyl.org

In a spin Xxxxxx

Author Lloyd Owen, arts critic Lowri Haf Cooke, singer Aled Rheon, Huw Stephens (BBC Radio 1) and musician Ani Glass

Children from Treganna School in Canton perform on the schools stage

Kizzy Crawford

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SOCIETY

GRAND DAY OUT GrandFest Cymru, a festival celebrating the heritage skills of talented older people and presented by the Royal Voluntary Service charity, took place at St Fagans National Museum of History. The one-day, family-friendly event offered a series of free masterclasses – including quilting, embroidery, bread-making, dance – hosted by the ‘GrandMakers’, all aged over 70.

Red letter day...

Cowbridge Male Voice Choir

For more: grandfest.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk

GrandMaker Clive Lillow and Lucy Owen

Xxxx

GrandMaker David Johnson

GrandMaker Dian Carol Smith and Rhodri Owen

Robi Thomas

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

SOCIETY

ROYALLY GOOD The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama hosted its third annual President’s Dinner.

The evening celebrated ten years of success and advancement under the leadership of Principal, Hilary Boulding, who leaves in August to become the first female president of Trinity College, Oxford.

Catrin Finch and Helen Dunning Elizabeth Talfan Davies, Lord Rowe-Beddoe, Babs Thomas, Peter Thomas CBE and Geraint Talfan Davies OBE

Manon Antoniazzi, Edwina Hart MBE, Hilary Boulding

For more: rwcmd.ac.uk

Menna Richards OBE, Clare Hudson, Sean Crowley, Kathryn Roberts and Jemma Terry

DREAM TICKET

Peter Karrie, Jenna Curtis, Bridget Atkinson and Tony Curtis

Supporting seriously ill children and their families, the Dreams and Wishes charity held a fundraising Masquerade Ball at Cardiff’s City Hall. Guests included Peter Karrie (Phantom Of The Opera), soprano Katy Treharne and artist Nathan Wyburn (Britain’s Got Talent).

For more: dreamsandwishescharity.org

Claire Payne, Philip Payne, Wendy Hobbs, Mark Hobbs, Claudia Hobbs and Jake Lobl

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

2-3 Station Approach, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan CF64 3EE 029 20 702 622 www.davidbaker.co.uk info@davidbaker.co.uk

9 Park Tower, Penarth ÂŁ1,100,000 An opportunity to purchase arguably one of the best penthouse apartments in South Wales situated in a development where properties very rarely come to the market. The spacious penthouse has spectacular views across the Bristol Channel with a fantastic south facing roof top garden spanning 1,000 sq. ft. as well as a separate balcony. There are three bedrooms, three bathrooms and two reception rooms, and the property further benefits from having two allocated undercroft parking spaces and communal grounds. Viewing of this penthouse is highly recommended to appreciate its uniqueness, size and location.

No Chain. Tenure: Share of Freehold. Energy Efficiency Rating: C. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter at /DavidBakerandCo

LAND of the

CLIENTS Solicitors, financial advisors, PR people and more – like it or not, you’ll probably be utilising them at some point.

Luckily, Cardiff is blessed with plenty of good professional services companies that can help in your hour of need...

By H UG O BA L L

T

here are times in your life – especially if you’re in business – when you’re going to need a solicitor, someone to help with your financial affairs, or good marketing/comms guys. So, right on cue, here are some of the leading lights of Cardiff’s professional services community to take the mystery out of locating high-quality help and advice...

LAW

ELISABETH EVANS

Associate Solicitor, MDJ Law What does your company offer?

Specialist employment law advice to businesses and individuals on all issues relating to the workplace, from grievances, disciplinaries and redundancies to discrimination and whistle-blowing.

What sets you apart?

The provision of advice on a personal basis, from a dedicated specialist employment lawyer.

Hot topic in your industry right now?

Zero hours contracts. It’ll be interesting to watch the situation develop and see the government’s latest response to them.

Tell us a secret about yourself…

With the British and Irish Lions just returning home from their tour of New Zealand, I’m proud to say

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

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 2017 retained a personal, friendly atmosphere. A lot of the discussions I have with clients are about what happens to their physical assets after death. Clients often comment on how much easier it is to talk to someone who is friendly and approachable.

Key benefit(s) to your clients?

As a multi-disciplined firm, we have a wide range of legal expertise available. This can help save clients time as they don’t have to go to lots of firms for different legal advice.

Tell us a secret about yourself…

My voice was used for a telephone system in a wellknown international institution. They must have liked the Welsh accent!

For more: hughjames.com

CLIVE THOMAS

Managing Partner, Watkins & Gunn What does your company offer?

We’re an award-winning law firm offering a full range of legal services to individuals and businesses.

Our expert solicitors are highly regarded in their specialist areas and represent clients in some of the most high-profile cases in Wales.

that my father actually toured there with the Lions in 1977, when they won 21 of their 26 games.

For more: djlaw.co.uk

LISA DAVIES

Senior Associate, Sinclairslaw What does your company offer?

Sinclairslaw has been acknowledged as a leading law firm in the Chambers Directory for its specialist services, including the nationally regarded education law team. We have now also established a new private client department.

What sets you apart?

We challenge ourselves to exceed our clients’ expectations and offer an unrivalled service. We champion jargon-free legal advice, and thanks to our client-first approach, we have received a number of prestigious national awards in recognition of the high-quality service we deliver.

What sets you apart?

We are a niche practice which has maintained a personal touch whilst offering the quality of advice often expected from much bigger firms. Even as we grow, we’ve never lost sight of the fact that our clients are the reason we are here.

Most exciting thing about the legal sector?

The march of technology, with the emergence of AI and the development of online courts.

Tell us a secret about yourself…

There is no longer a Watkins or Gunn here!

Key benefit(s) to your clients?

Every client is treated as an individual and receives excellent advice at accessible costs.

For more: watkinsandgunn.co.uk

JODI WINTER

Partner, CJCH Solicitors What does your company offer?

We’re a law firm, but not in the traditional sense.

We see ourselves as a member of the community – we are the main sponsor of GlastonBARRY music festival, for example – and pride ourselves on the personal touch.

Most exciting thing about your industry?

There are some interesting developments in wills and probate, in particular around the new Inheritance Tax rules involving the family home.

Tell us a secret about yourself…

In my early 20s, I worked in a button factory in Italy. I’m now quite picky about the buttons garment manufacturers use, and frequently replace them with my own once I’ve bought an item of clothing!

Key benefit(s) to your clients?

Being supported by a firm of expert lawyers with international experience and local values.

For more: sinclairslaw.co.uk

Tell us a secret about yourself…

I might have become a psychologist, as I’m fascinated by the human mind and human behaviour.

That, or a backing singer/dancer for Prince!

SARAH CASH

Partner (Tax, Trusts and Estates), Hugh James What does your company offer?

We’re a Top 100 UK law firm delivering comprehensive legal services for professionals, directors, wealthy individuals and retired people.

What sets you apart?

Although we have more than 680 staff, we have

For more: jchsolicitors.co.uk (From top) Elisabeth Evans (MDJ Law), Lisa Davies (Sinclairslaw), Sarah Cash (Hugh James) and Clive Thomas (Watkins & Gunn)

KATIE McCOLGAN

Partner (Family Team), Berry Smith Lawyers What does your company offer?

Pretty much anything you need advice on in w www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 61

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 2017 relation to your family – divorce and finances, child arrangements, maintenance, cohabitation, prenuptial agreements etc.

Key benefit(s) to your clients?

It is always beneficial for clients to resolve matters without contested court proceedings. At Berry Smith, we offer the whole range of alternative dispute resolution options, including mediation, collaborative law, arbitration and negotiation.

For more: berrysmith.com

FINANCIAL LEE FLAVIN

CEO, RateSwitch What does your company offer?

We switch homeowners to better mortgage rates via their current lender, completely free of charge.

What sets you apart?

We provide consumers with complete transparency.

We accurately compare interest rates available to them both internally, via their current mortgage lender, and externally, if they were to switch to a different lender.

organisations and other larger enterprises, as well as individual private clients.

Most exciting thing about your industry?

The government’s plans for digitisation of tax and the new regulations coming into force. We think it’s a good thing – businesses will have real-time figures against which they can make informed decisions that can enhance their profitability.

Key benefit(s) to your clients?

Expert, impartial, fee-free mortgage advice without obligation. In many cases, we’re able to execute rate switches as a same-day transaction.

Tell us a secret about yourself…

I’m a black belt in martial arts and was once shot by an air rifle. Who says accountants are boring?

Most exciting thing about your industry?

The wave of FinTech start-ups entering the mortgage market. As a mortgage adviser, being part of this ‘uprising’ is incredibly exciting.

For more: broomfield.co.uk

CRAIG PALFREY

Partner, Penguin Wealth What does your company offer?

Family-focused wealth management. We look at the client first and what their life goals are, then, once we have understood that, we start thinking about their finances.

Tell us a secret about yourself…

I’m a qualified hypnotherapist. And s-l-e-e-e-p...

For more: rateswitch.uk

TOM O’BRIEN

Director, Verde Corporate Finance What does your company offer?

A complete corporate and commercial finance service, supporting a diverse range of the nation’s fastest-growing businesses. As a specialist boutique, we advise on the financial aspects of fundraising, business structures, mergers and acquisitions.

What sets you apart?

We invest heavily in our staff. If our team is the best it can be, it translates into a wonderful experience and meaningful outcomes for our clients.

Most exciting thing about your industry?

Today’s world is very ‘tech’, but what’s exciting for us is producing outcomes that utilise modern tech with old-fashioned virtues of living life successfully.

What sets you apart?

Verde was launched as a result of a joint venture with leading Cardiff-based business advisory firm, Greenaway Scott. This highly successful partnership allows us to offer a unique holistic advisory service, and to operate independently, depending on our clients’ individual needs.

Tell us a secret about yourself…

I’ve been on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? and also a children’s special of The Crystal Maze.

For more: penguinwealth.com

For more: verdecf.com

PHILIP PAYNE

LEIGHTON REED

Director, Broomfield & Alexander What does your company offer?

We are a leading independent firm of accountants and professional advisors. We advise small and medium-sized businesses, not-for-profit 62 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

(From top) Katie McColgan (Berry Smith Lawyers), Jodi Winter (CJCH Solicitors), Lee Flavin (RateSwitch), Tom O’Brien (Verde Corporate Finance)

Director, Mulberry Wealth Management What does your company offer?

We are independent financial advisers, focused on managing all types of pension and investment arrangements for our clients. We also advise on mortgages and life assurance.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 2017 Key benefit(s) to your clients?

Our clients get true independent advice at a very competitive cost. With currently well over £250 million under management, we have good economies of scale with leading industry providers and have negotiated competitive cost and charging structures, all of which are passed on to our clients.

customers start adopting VR, reaching the end user through a VR experience is something that marketers will have a lot of fun with, allowing us to inject even more creativity into what we do.

Most exciting thing about your industry?

Pensions! Sweeping changes to legislation and the introduction of pension freedoms means people can benefit from their pension savings like never before.

For more: stationrd.co.uk

Tell us a secret about yourself…

I speak five languages, including Greek and Swahili.

ALED EDWARDS

Director, Freshwater UK What does your company offer?

We’re an independent integrated comms agency, with dedicated teams in PR, advertising, media buying, digital, design, public affairs and events, as well as specialist healthcare and training divisions.

Tell us a secret about yourself...

As much as financial services is a passion, if I’d had more patience at university I’d have been an architect instead.

For more: mulberrywealth.co.uk

What sets you apart?

Our people. We have an incredibly talented team, made up of sector specialists and channel experts.

Most of us have been with the company for more than five years – quite rare in this industry.

COMMUNICATIONS/PR LYANNA TSAKIRIS

Partner, Station Rd Marketing What does your company offer?

We are a strategic comms agency, working with clients to grow their businesses through insightdriven campaigns, strategy and planning, marketing strategy, content creation and SEO. Our work helps boost brand reputation and puts our clients in front of their target audiences.

What sets you apart?

Understanding. Understanding business, people, our clients, the markets they (and their customers) operate in, technology and the various communications channels we have at our disposal to get the right results. We don’t take a ‘one-size fits all approach’ to marketing and PR. Most exciting thing about your industry?

Virtual Reality (VR) – as users and potential

Key benefit(s) to your clients?

Being integrated means we can take an objective view and develop a strategy that will best meet our clients’ needs.

What’s the most exciting thing about your industry right now?

My specialism is events, and it’ll be interesting to see how soon we’ll be using facial recognition to register and track delegates.

(From top) Craig Palfrey (Penguin Wealth), Philip Payne (Mulberry Wealth Management), Lyanna Tsakiris (Station Rd Marketing); (Below) Aled Edwards (Freshwater UK)

Tell us a secret about yourself…

I have a tattoo, but it’s somewhere my colleagues will never see…

For more: freshwater-uk.com

BEN MILES-DAVIES

Account executive, Effective Communication What does your company offer?

We’re a bilingual Cardiff-based communications agency providing PR, social media, digital marketing and creative services to more than 50 clients across the UK. What sets you apart?

Our ability to embrace the latest trends and technologies to deliver better results for our clients; we’re always looking to try new things and approach campaigns differently.

What’s the most exciting thing about your industry right now?

Video. It’s such a versatile form of communication and has never been more accessible to create and consume.

Tell us a secret about yourself…

I can’t sleep if my arms or legs hang off the side of the bed because I feel exposed. It’s both irrational and ridiculous.

For more: weareeffective.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 63

Shake-ups/launches/successes/promotions

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

(Left) Sweet Baboo played live at Porter’s, in celebration of the venue’s recent PRS for Music award; (Below, back row) PRS Chairman Nigel Elderton and music producer Steve Levine; (Front row) David Wilson, Lewis Morgan and Dan Porter

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

“I’VE RECENTLY WORKED WITH SOME OF JUSTIN BIEBER’S DANCE CREW...”

Ooh, who’s been jumping and jiving? Find out more on page 66...

THE BIG STORY

HITTING THE RIGHT NOTE Porter’s Bar in Cardiff celebrates £10,000 ‘Music Makeover’ award win Named winner of PRS for Music’s national competition, Porter’s – a hidden gem, tucked away in Harlech Court, on Bute Terrace – beat more than 200 other pubs across the UK, trumping pubs from Glasgow to Cornwall for the sought-after accolade.

As well as an upgrade to their music set-up, which includes a bespoke music consultancy from globally renowned producer Steve Levine (The Clash, Culture Club), the prize also included a gold disc presentation.

PRS for Music, a collecting society that represents the rights of over two million songwriters, composers and music publishers across the globe, launched the annual Music Makeover competition seven years ago to raise awareness of the important impact music can have on local businesses, and to showcase businesses that use music to maximum effect.

An established creative hub, Porter’s events range

from theatre productions to comedy nights, while also offering a platform to local and emerging musicians.

Many of the staff are artists themselves, creating a welcoming environment for performers and customers alike. As part of the celebrations, PRS for Music held a special party at Porter’s, with live performances from Welsh acts Sweet Baboo and Kizzy Crawford.

“We’re delighted, surprised and humbled to be the winners of this year’s Music Makeover,” said Lewis Morgan, Porter’s manager and the venue’s in-house sound engineer. “We will use this fantastic prize to give back to all the artists and good people who are the lifeblood of not only this venue but also this city. Thank you so much, PRS for Music!”

For more: porterscardiff.com, prsformusic.com

19% THE BIG NUMBER

That’s how much passenger growth for June 2017 at Cardiff Airport was up versus the same month last year - 185,787 passengers in total, enough to fill the Principality Stadium more than twice over!

For more cardiff-airport.com

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

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BUSINESS INSIDER

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS WINNER’S PROFILE

OLSEN FITNESS Winner of the ‘Health’ category at this year’s Cardiff Life Awards, Olsen Fitness founder KIER OLSEN talks personal training, booming business and er, Keith Lemon How did it feel to win a Cardiff Life Award?

To tell you the truth, it was a bit of a shock.

Olsen Fitness is a relatively young business and the Health category was full of brilliant health service providers. But it was an amazing feeling.

It was great to be rewarded, not just for all of our hard work but the commitment and loyalty of all of our clients.

What did you enjoy most about the main Awards night?

Aside from winning the award itself, it was an honour to be part of such a great awards ceremony, recognising the best of Cardiff’s businesses, and to be able to chat and celebrate with other finalists.

Where is your Award now?

Sitting in my parents’ living room. I gave it to them to keep because they’ve helped me out so much since the beginning of Olsen Fitness.

What sets Olsen Fitness apart?

Our clients’ transformations. Everything is clientcentric, and every client will find they have a coach accessible to them 24/7. When a client doesn’t need us anymore, we’ve done our job well. At Olsen Fitness, education is key – we work with clients to help them understand nutrition, their training and how it all affects their body and health.

As a personal training business, what have you found to be the best tools for success?

Genuinely caring about clients. I always focus on helping as many people as I can – it’s never been about financial gain. I love what I do, watching people change not just physically, but also seeing their mental well-being improve.

How’s business at the moment?

It’s going really well. Since winning the Cardiff Life Award, our client base has grown with oneto-one sessions and bootcamps becoming a lot busier. Corporate well-being packages have also become quite popular and our ‘Becoming 66 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

BIZ WISDOM PAY THE PRICE?

When is it right to invest in support, asks ANDREA CALLANAN, voice expert and founder of inspireMe Olsen Fitness founder Kier Olsen and performance coach Melanie Squire with their Cardiff Life Award

Extraordinary’ workshops – fronted by our performance coach, Mel – are receiving more and more bookings. We’re also working on a few really exciting projects, to be announced via social media in the coming months.

What’s the best piece of professional/ business advice you’ve ever been given?

I’m not sure it’s advice, but my father is a big inspiration to how my business is run. He worked the majority of his career as a police officer in Cardiff Bay and was always thinking of new ways to engage with the community and make the community stronger. He’s retired now, but people still stop him and thank him for the work he did.

As a business, what advantages does Cardiff offer you?

Cardiff is such a vibrant city and is constantly growing and changing which makes it a very exciting place to base your business. Through running my sessions at St David’s Hotel in Cardiff Bay – a fantastic location – I’ve got to work with some pretty cool people: a cast member from Orange Is The New Black, an actor from the Sherlock Holmes movie, and most recently, some of Justin Bieber’s dance crew.

Are there any other local businesses you particularly admire?

We work very closely with Agile Therapy, who are based in Roath – they have a wide variety of services boasting second-to-none physiotherapy, sports massage, orthotics and much more besides. I wouldn’t think twice about sending anyone with sports injuries, muscle tightness or soreness there.

Finally, tell us a secret or little-known fact about yourself...

My signature dance move (my only dance move!) is the ‘Keith Lemon Cossack’, which my knees hate me for!

For more: olsenfitness.co.uk

As a seasoned boot-strapper, I’ve both ‘made do’ and taken the plunge of paying for experts when needed.

If money were no object, I’d always pay to have ‘aces in places’ – it’s usually more efficient and you get better quality. Doing the hard work and learning a skill that you may use throughout your business is often beneficial, too. This is typical of tech start-ups, where online tutorials can often be found on YouTube and various forums.

Generally, you get what you pay for, but there’s some excellent free advice on websites such as startupdonut, businesswales.gov.wales, careerswales.com and many others.

There’s also a myriad of online forums and articles. If you’re lucky enough to know someone who’ll invest their time and energy into supporting you with your business, then jump at it – assuming that person is good, of course. They need to have a tried and tested business of their own before you put your business baby in their hands.

Bartering is a great way to swap skills that you may not be able to pay for financially. Again, make sure the person you’re bartering with is a match for your competency. I’ve been let down by bartering partners many times, but I’ve also shared some outstanding reciprocity within my business journey, which I’m eternally grateful for.

Ultimately, if you have the time and inclination to up-skill yourself, good for you. When you can afford it financially, pay. Sometimes you have to loosen the reigns to let your business breathe, which often means bringing in experts to support you. As always, trust your instinct and don’t worry too much about getting it wrong. Just keep learning and you’ll be fine! inspireMe are a Cardiff-based engagement and self-development company that offer UK-wide teambuilding and training. For more, see andinspireme.com

BUSINESS INSIDER

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC Constructaquote’s Lyndon Wood Leaf it out: FlowerBe founders Sean Millard and Lisa Roberts

GROWTH SPURT

Leading Caerphilly-based UK insurance broker, Constructaquote.com, has announced a 34% profit increase of £663,000, an organic growth that comes as a result of a pioneering and solid development strategy drive across its direct and wholesale insurance business. “Innovation is a key driver in everything we do,” said CEO and serial entrepreneur, Lyndon Wood.

“My teams are building recurring revenues by growing our key accounts as we continue to provide business insurance, van insurance, public liability insurance and professional indemnity insurance to both SMEs and large organisations.” constructaquote.com

DIGITAL DONS

Cardiff marketing and technology company, UpriseVSI, has made three new appointments on the back of several major project wins and strong demand for thinkBooker, its award-winning online booking software.

Michaela Hinton comes on board as an account manager, David Frederick has been appointed to the position of digital marketing manager, and Ilias Stivasaris joins the company’s web development team as a front-end developer. uprisevsi.co.uk

LONDON LINK

More Cardiff Airport news – with summer infrastructure works set to cause problems on the railways around Cardiff during August and September, regional airline Flybe’s Cardiff to London city link looks set to benefit rail passengers affected by the disruption. The up-totwice-daily flights, departing from Wales’ national airport, allows passengers to land in the heart of London’s Canary Wharf just over an hour after departing Welsh soil – ideal for those commuters who need to get to business meetings without having to worry about delayed trains. flybe.com, cardiff-airport.com

POLLEN POWER Love flowers? Then read on... Launched earlier this year by Penarth-based Lisa Roberts and her brother, Sean Millard, FlowerBe is an exciting, rapidly-growing flower membership service, with big plans for the future.

Having studied Garden Design at the Chelsea Physic Garden and the Guild of Florists, Lisa is currently the florist for the Principality Stadium; her stunning designs have decked the VIP areas for events such as the Six Nations, and the recent Coldplay gigs and Champions League Final.

Employing local printers, designers and distributors, the flower design and delivery service is already seeking its next round of investment. “We saw a gap in the market to bring together florist-grade flowers at

an affordable price – varieties not available in supermarkets – with an accessible approach to learning about flowers and arranging,” says Sean.

Once signed up, members just choose their favourite flowers each month from three seasonal selections (including unusual, on-trend varieties). These are then delivered to their door, loose in a box, allowing them to create their own professional arrangements using expert guides. Simple, no? We’re ‘lavender’ idea!

For more: Memberships start from around £22 per month, and FlowerBe is offering Cardiff Life readers a 50% discount on their first delivery, using code ‘CDFLife’.

For more: flowerbe.co.uk

Ridgeway, Lisvane A capacious detached double fronted five bedroom family house, occupying a fine position with a particularly large corner garden, and fronting a quiet residential road, away from busy passing traffic. Built in 1970, this substantial property benefits from an attached double garage, PVC double glazed replacement windows, cavity wall insulation and gas heating with panel radiators. This well designed versatile residence is one of only a small number of similar designed houses available in this location and would prove ideal for a growing family or possible two generation living. The extensive surrounding gardens command a high level of privacy by means of a mature well-manicured screen of conifer trees, whilst the main garden is laid to lawn beyond a paved sun terrace. In recent years the space between the double garage has been converted into a large store room/ utility room (15’9 x 1010), and a new white Roca ensuite contemporary shower room has been re-modelled. This spacious home comprises a central entrance reception hall (11’5 x 10’8), a super-sized lounge (27’0 x 13’9) into a circular shaped bay, a large formal dining room (11’10 x 10’7), a kitchen/breakfast room (13’5 x 10’10), a downstairs cloak room and a separate snug/study. The first floor comprises five good sized bedrooms and two bathrooms, one ensuite. A double width 3/4 car entrance drive leads to a double garage (16’9 x 16’2), and the garage is positioned alongside the property, with room to extend! Only a small number of five bedroom purpose built houses were built in Ridgeway, and many of those have been extended right across the double garage to allow for a further master suite which could provide kan ensuite dressing room, a large master bedroom and an ensuite bathroom. In other cases many owners have converted both the kitchen and dining room into a super-sized open plan living and kitchen area which would be approximately 21’5 in length. In order to complete these extensions full planning and building regulation approval would be required.

For sale with PA Black Llanishen Branch 02920 618552 £579,950

Squirrel Oak Barn, The Vale Occupying an idyllic position, set back within a private select hamlet comprising just two distinctive houses of character. This charming detached stone built Barn conversion has been extensively renovated and modernised to a very high specification and commands a truly picturesque position adjacent its own paddock, approximately 3 acres, with lawned surrounding gardens and a secluded courtyard with a private sun terrace. The property consists of two barns and a detached leisure complex, the main Barn having been sympathetically converted. There are a total of four bedrooms and three luxury bathrooms, whilst the second barn has been converted into a four car garage plus work shop. The newly re-furbished detached leisure complex includes a fully heated indoor swimming pool, a sunken hot tub, a games room, a solarium, a sauna and a separate shower room/WC. The location would be ideal for those looking for tranquillity with lovely uninterrupted views across the surrounding countryside. The property is only 20 minutes from J35 of the M4 providing easy access to Cardiff and the rest of South Wales. Features within the barn conversion include luxury UNDER FLOOR heating and stylish new powder coated Paladin cast iron bespoke radiators throughout the first floor. A bran new Oil tank has been installed, enclosed within a timber fenced surround, and a new private drainage system added. All windows have been replaced with double glazed units and a new electric system has been installed equipped with surround sound system, and the property has been completely re-plumbed to accommodate the three new Villeroy & Boch bathroom suites, two of which are bespoke en suite shower rooms with wet room showers with concealed natural flow soak away’s and Mandarin tiled walls. A charming feature within this magnificent Barn conversion are the natural exposed stone walls, strategically placed to balance the contemporary walls throughout the accommodation. Large solid oak beams are visible throughout, and the minimalist living space includes an entrance reception hall with a full height clear glass front entrance door with side screen picture window and a returning solid wood staircase leading to a glass balustrade. The hall leads to a downstairs cloak room with a bespoke Villeroy & Boch white suite, and a formal dining room (17’6 x 11’7). Clear glass double doors approach the hall, whilst a french door leads to a private lawned rear garden inset with a sun terrace. The kitchen/(18’0 x 17’5) is superb with a high specification, balanced with contemporary work surfaces and high gloss doors with concealed handles and soft closing doors and deep pan drawers provide exceptional storage space.

For sale with PA Black Cowbridge Branch 01446-772857

£999,999

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

WESTMINSTER CRESCENT

70 112I I CARDIFF CLIFTONLIFE LIFE I I www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

An ultra-modern, high-spec, six-bedroom detached abode in affluent Cyncoed

By K AT I E K I SSO ON

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

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

T

his contemporary home has so much going on (including a swimming pool, natch) that it’s difficult to know where to start, so we’ll just um, dive in... Approached via a blockpaved driveway, you’re met by an imposing, beautifully designed, white rendered facade with green aluminium windows (much more pleasing to the eye than they sound!). Once inside the entrance hallway, with its vaulted, double-height ceiling and lots of glass, you’re bathed in lots of lovely natural light.

There’s plenty of downstairs space to call your own – a sitting room, family room, games room and study – but it’s the spacious, open-plan luxury designer kitchen/ breakfast room that forms the real hub of this sleek home, with integrated appliances (including a Neff coffee machine, microwave, two ovens, induction hob with extractor, wine cooler and full-height fridge), plenty of storage space and magnificent bi-fold doors that open out onto the rear garden. There’s a handy utility room, too, with space and plumbing for a washing machine and tumble dryer.

A walnut and glass floating staircase leads to the first floor landing, with more of that glorious natural light flooding in. There are four decent-sized bedrooms up here, including the luxurious master bedroom, with walnut floor, a fitted walk-in-wardrobe, modern en-suite wet-room and bi-fold doors leading to a balcony that overlooks the rear garden. And there’s also a high-spec family bathroom/wet-room, with a jacuzzi bath and separate rainwater shower. Further up, another landing provides access to the second floor, with its own TV/ games area, attic storage space and two more very spacious bedrooms.

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Lots of lovely natural light floods in to this spacious and very modern family abode

HOUSE NUMBERS 8 Westminster Crescent, Cyncoed

6

bedrooms

5

reception rooms

1

swimming pool

1

open-plan kitchen

£1.5m guide price

Back outside, the private, fully enclosed, lowmaintenance rear garden is tiered with a combination of artificial lawn, decking and shrub borders, providing a host of options for entertaining (including that outdoor swimming pool we mentioned earlier) and al fresco dining. And your guests – they’ll be beating a path to your door – will love the home automation system that allows you to control lights and sound throughout the property.

So... will you be the one to get the party started?

For more info, contact Savills, 12 Windsor Place, Cardiff CF10 3BY; Tel: 02920 368920, savills.co.uk

CARDIFF LIVES

Q&A

A

vant-Garde Vegan is right: Gaz Oakley’s beautifully assembled and expertly photographed vegan dishes look more like far-out works of art than plates of food – check out his website, YouTube channel and Instagram feed (@avantgardevegan), and you’ll see what we mean. Now, who’s for a spot of super-green gazpacho with rose petal ice?

Where’s home in Cardiff?

I live at home with my parents in Cyncoed. They have really supported me since starting AvantGarde Vegan, especially when times were tough.

As AGV, you knock up some incrediblelooking vegan food, and have notched up 100,000 Instagram followers – what inspired you to start it up?

Initially, the main reason was just to show my friends what I was eating – they couldn’t believe I’d gone vegan.

Where does your food passion stem from?

My dad got me into cooking at a very young age; he always used to cook lovely meals for my family, and still does – when I’m not in the kitchen, that is...

So, why vegan food?

Too many positives to mention: for my health, to stop cruelty against animals, to help save the planet... and because it tastes incredible!

Signature dish?

Super-green gazpacho, served with an avocado rose and rose petal ice. Its raw-vegan, so extremely healthy and packed full of punchy flavours – perfect for summer.

What’s the quickest recipe you know?

Chocolate and avocado mousse. Throw an avocado into a blender with cacao powder, maple syrup and a splash of almond milk then whizz until smooth – really delicious and creamy.

What might be a typical day for you?

I’m often cooking and photographing my food, or filming recipe videos for my YouTube channel.

You might also find me at the gym or jogging around Roath Park Lake. Lately, I’ve been locked inside, writing my recipe book.

Ooh, tell us more...

I recently signed a deal with Quadrille, and the book’s due out in 2018. I was over the moon to sign with such a major publisher – it felt like all my hard work had paid off. I’m off to London soon to shoot the pictures for it.

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GAZ OAKLEY The chef otherwise known as Avant-Garde Vegan tells us about his new cookery book, food passions and his 30-second recipe for choccy mousse Most famous person you follow on Twitter?

Fellow Welsh boys Gareth Bale and Tom Jones.

Proudest moment so far?

Signing my book deal and seeing my subscribers grow on YouTube (currently at 90,000 followers!).

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

About how a vegan lifestyle is the future, and how incredible vegan food can be – which is basically what I do on social media.

When did you last cry?

When Wales got to the Euro 2016 semi-final.

Dream dinner party guests?

[Grime MC] Jme, Rihanna, Barack Obama, Tom Jones, Steve Carell and Drake.

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

A big bowl of fried plantain.

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Leonardo DiCaprio.

Guiltiest pleasure?

I’m addicted to watching The Office US. What’s the most important lesson life has taught you?

To be kind and compassionate to everyone, and not to judge.

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

Revelry by Kings Of Leon.

Karaoke choice?

I would never, ever do karaoke [Philistine – Ed].

What’s on your bookshelf at the moment?

Food mags – some have my photos on the cover, but I buy them mostly for food photography inspiration.

Best thing about Cardiff?

Everything is local!

Favourite shops in Cardiff?

Cardiff Indoor Flea Market in Tremorfa.

Locally, where do you like to eat and drink?

Anna-Loka, but most of the time I tend to cook for myself.

Secret or favourite Cardiff spot?

There are some amazing vegan options at Ponnuswamy, a great South Indian restaurant on City Road.

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

I appeared on the ITV programme, Britain’s Best Dish, at 14.

For more: avantgardevegan.com

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