Cardiff Life – issue 175 by MediaClash

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 175 / AUTUMN 2017 / £3

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

ISSUE 175 / AUTUMN 2017 / TO MARKET, TO MARKET / SECRET CARDIFF / BUYING ART

GOODS TRADITION A DAY IN THE LIFE OF CARDIFF’S HISTORIC MARKET

GOOD FOR HUE ART TO BUY RIGHT NOW

SECRET STREETS THE CITY, UNCOVERED

PETER FINCH’S CARDIFF

TAKEOVER!

SPOOKY SHOPPING

DEFECT TO THE DARK SIDE

editor’s letter / Issue 175 / AUTUMN 2017

Orrigh’ Cardiff?

MARKET DAY

Lots of banter and chat, a warm welcome and all manner of stuff to buy at Cardiff’s lively indoor market

How’s it goin’? My name’s Christian and I run a Cardiff-lovin’ little entity called I Loves The ’Diff. When Vel asked me to guest-edit this issue of Cardiff Life, I was very excited but a little intimidated. Nevertheless, I immediately demoted Vel to intern and sent him to fetch more coffee, while I set about thinking up ideas. I wanted the issue to celebrate ‘real Cardiff’, or maybe just ‘my Cardiff’. Pretty soon, my thoughts turned to food. Beca LynePirkis (of The Great British Bake Off fame) was the first person I thought of for a very ‘Cairdiff’ recipe (page 61). Caroline Streetinspired chips with curry sauce, anyone? It doesn’t get more Cardiff than the market, and we also have a feature on this fascinating, unique and historic retail hub (page 14). Many of us, me included, need to use it more. And for the ‘secret Cardiff’ feature (page 24), we celebrate the overlooked street corners and back alleys that we use without thought every day. Sometimes these unremarkable places mean a lot to someone… I also got to meet local poet, historian and author, Peter Finch (Cardiff Lives, page 89), and it was a real privilege to hear him talk about ‘his city’. I hope you enjoy this issue – rest assured normal service will be resumed next time. Stay lush.

Cyfle i gyfarch Caerdydd Shwmae? Christian ydw i ac rwy’n rhedeg brand o’r enw I Loves The ’Diff, sy’n clodfori Caerdydd. Pan ofynnodd Vel i mi fod yn olygydd gwadd ar gyfer y rhifyn hwn o Cardiff Life, roeddwn yn teimlo’n llawn cyffro ond braidd yn ofnus hefyd. Er hynny, penderfynais yn syth gwneud Vel yn was bach ac fe’i hanfonais i baratoi rhagor o goffi er mwyn i mi allu dechrau meddwl am syniadau. Roeddwn yn awyddus i’r rhifyn glodfori’r ‘Caerdydd go iawn’, neu ‘fy Nghaerdydd i’ efallai. Cyn pen dim dechreuais feddwl am fwyd. Beca Lyne-Pirkis, a ddaeth yn wyneb cyfarwydd ar The Great British Bake Off, ddaeth i’m meddwl i’n gyntaf wrth ystyried cynnwys rysáit sy’n cyfleu agwedd ar Gaerdydd (ar dudalen 61). Pwy sydd am flasu sglodion gyda saws cyrri, sydd wedi’u hysbrydoli gan Stryd Caroline? Does yr un man yn ymgorffori naws Caerdydd yn well na’r farchnad, ac rydym yn rhoi sylw i’r ganolfan siopa ryfeddol, unigryw a hanesyddol hon (ar dudalen 14). Mae angen i lawer ohonom, gan fy nghynnwys i, wneud mwy o ddefnydd ohoni. Ac ar gyfer yr erthygl ynghylch cyfrinachau Caerdydd (ar dudalen 24), rydym yn clodfori’r strydoedd cefn a’r corneli stryd yr ydym yn eu defnyddio bob dydd heb sylwi arnynt mewn gwirionedd. Weithiau, mae’r mannau di-nod hynny’n golygu llawer i rywun… Cefais gyfle hefyd i gwrdd â Peter Finch sy’n fardd, yn hanesydd ac yn awdur lleol (yn yr adran ‘Cardiff Lives’ ar dudalen 89) ac roedd yn fraint ei glywed yn sôn am ‘ei ddinas ef’. Rwy’n gobeithio y cewch chi flas ar y rhifyn hwn – gallwch fod yn dawel eich meddwl y bydd pethau’n dychwelyd i’r drefn arferol y tro nesaf. Daliwch ati i fwynhau. CHRISTIAN AMODEO Guest Editor ilovesthediff.com Follow us on Twitter: @ILovesTheDiff, @CardiffLifeMag

CONTENTS / ISSUE 175 / AUTUMN 2017

MAIN FEATURES 14 Cardiff Market Christian Amodeo immerses himself in the city’s iconic market, a “microcosm of noise and banter”

24 ‘Secret’ Cardiff Local residents reveal their memorable personal experiences on the city’s streets

M EET T H E T EAM Editor Velimir Ilic vel.ilic@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Christian Amodeo, Hugo Ball, Anna Britten, Andrea Byrne, Katie Kissoon, Beca Lyne-Pirkis Advertising manager Mark George mark.george@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy ad manager Claire Hawkins claire.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Jonathan Willis jonathan.willis@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Lorena Cussens lorena.cussens@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Steve Hawkins steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk

30 Buying Art What to buy? And where to begin? Our galleries have got your back...

THE ARTS 37 Intro

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

The Welsh lady, reinvented

38 What’s On Arts, plays, gigs etc – time to update your diary

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

44 Le Navet Bete Watch out – Dracula will soon be prowling around Cardiff...

Cardiff Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW; 01225 475800, mediaclash.co.uk, @The MediaClash

SHOPPING 47 Shopping intro

FOOD

DEPARTMENTS

58 Restaurant

7 Spotlight

Quirky pizzas and delish cocktails at The Brass Beetle

Wales Book Of The Year shortlist, Techniquest after dark, and more

61 Recipes

68 Snapped!

Blue is the ‘It’ colour for AW17

Chippy Lane-style fries and chocolatey soda bread, courtesy of Beca Lyne-Pirkis

Red carpet pics from the BAFTA Cymru Awards, Cardiff Book Festival, The Admiral St David et al

OPINION

BUSINESS

89 Cardiff Lives

55 Girl About Town

77 Business Insider

Dogs, coffee mornings, book tours – yep, another hectic month for those busy Byrnes

The latest good news stories

Delicious, unadulterated, local honey – yum

48 Editor’s Choice A spook-tastic selection – must be Halloween, then...

52 Fashion

The one and only Peter Finch – distinguished poet, author and historian – is in the hot seat

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrate the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs (crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag). Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

On the cover Cardiff Market, as captured by Christian ‘I Loves The ’Diff’ Amodeo – read his feature on page 14

PROPERT Y 82 Property Showcase A unique, architect-designed beaut

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

THE FINE PRINT Those all-important Wales Book of the Year runners and riders... ENGLISH LANGUAGE AWARDS: ROLAND MATHIAS POETRY AWARD John Freeman: What Possessed Me (Worple) Rhiannon Hooson: The Other City (Seren) Maria Apichella: Psalmody (Eyewear) RHYS DAVIES TRUST FICTION AWARD Alys Conran: Pigeon (Parthian) Cynan Jones: Cove (Granta) Jo Mazelis: Ritual, 1969 (Seren) CREATIVE NON-FICTION Peter Lord: The Tradition (Parthian) Keiron Pim: Jumpin’ Jack Flash (Vintage) Catherine Fletcher: The Black Prince of Florence (The Bodley Head) WELSH LANGUAGE AWARDS: POETRY Aneirin Karadog: Bylchau Elis Dafydd: Chwilio am Dân Aled Lewis Evans: Llinynnau (all Cyhoeddiadau Barddas) FICTION Caryl Lewis: Y Gwreiddyn (Y Lolfa) Guto Dafydd: Ymbelydredd (Y Lolfa) Dyfed Edwards: Iddew (Gwasg y Bwthyn) CREATIVE NON-FICTION Alan Llwyd: Gwenallt (Y Lolfa) Menna Elfyn: Optimist Absoliwt (Gwasg Gomer) Idris Reynolds: Cofio Dic (Gwasg Gomer)

LITERATURE

ON THE WRITE TRACK Literature Wales announces this year’s Wales Book of the Year shortlist After many months reading, meeting and debating, the Wales Book of the Year judges have chosen their 18-strong list of favourites from the books published in 2016. The winners of the prestigious award will be announced at a special awards ceremony on 13 November at Cardiff’s Tramshed, with a total prize fund of £12,000 up for grabs. “It’s one of the literary highlights of the year,” said Lleucu Siencyn, chief exec of

Literature Wales. “We hope that readers will enjoy the wealth and variety of modern Welsh literature; they will travel from the shadow of slate mountains to 60s London; they’ll be lost at sea; they’ll experience the pain of radiation therapy; and they’ll learn about the history of Welsh art, and journey through themes of loss, myth and memory.” For more: literaturewales.org

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

THE SCIENCE BIT

A MATTER OF CRIME

Techniquest’s ‘After Hours’ returns with a spook-tacular Halloween theme Cardiff ’s science and discovery centre is promising an unforgettable night (to be held on 26 October, ages 18+) of fun-filled science, CSI-style forensic workshops, crime-solving and spooky tours. Visitors will also be able to take part in an immersive horror activity, with a Halloween-themed virtual reality experience. “Our ‘After Hours’ nights aim to

The Sixteen play St David’s Hall on 17 December

NEWS IN BRIEF

bring science to audiences in a highly unique way, combining learning with socialising in a relaxed format,” said Techniquest CEO, Lesley Kirkpatrick. “Crime scene documentaries are so popular and have such a huge following, so we thought that this would be a great way to get people excited about science.” For more: techniquest.org Release the bats!

MUSIC, MAESTRO! St David’s Hall has revealed its International Concert Series for 2017/18, and there’s a whole host of classical and orchestral music to get excited about. This year’s highlights include Manchester’s The Hallé orchestra (1 November), playing Ravel’s Bolero, Mussorgsky’s Pictures At An Exhibition, and more; the Welsh National Opera Orchestra (23 November), with key pieces by Mahler and Shostakovich; and The Sixteen (17 December), whose annual Christmas concert will feature seasonal hymns and traditional favourites. Book now! stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

CENTRE-STAGE Cardiff’s pub theatre, The Other Room (located at Porter’s), has announced its new Violet Burns Playwright Award, which aims to discover and develop Welsh and Wales-based female playwrights. In its inaugural year, the Award is looking for writers specifically interested in writing in the Welsh language, and winners will have the opportunity to have their first play professionally produced at The Other Room – see their website for more. otherroomtheatre.com

L E G A L a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

Our Expert Answers Your Legal Questions

Katie McColgan, Partner (Family Department) at Berry Smith

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y ex-husband and I managed to go through our divorce amicably and, as part of our financial order, agreed that he would pay child maintenance over and above what he was told he should pay by the Child Maintenance Service online calculator. He has since changed his mind and is now only paying the amount that the online calculator has told him he should. What can I do?

a: Where a financial order is made, requiring your husband to make payments for the children (known as periodical payments), then he is required to make these payments, and pay any arrears, whilst the order stands. If your husband has breached the order then you may consider

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CARDIFF MARKET

GOT A GOODS THING GOING Plenty of banter, chat, noise and some real characters – just a typical day in the life of Cardiff’s historic indoor market Stor y a nd photo s by C H R I ST I A N A MODEO

here’s nowhere else like Cardiff Market. Located right at the very heart of the city, it’s a microcosm of noise, smells and banter all under one great Victorian roof. These days, it offers faded charm, chat, all manner of characters and – to nick a book title from Peter Finch – a healthy dose of ‘real Cardiff’. There’s been a market in the centre of Cardiff since the 18th century. Built on the site of the town’s ‘gaol’ and opened in May 1891, the Grade II listed building that we know and love is home to some 68 businesses, offering a bewildering variety of goods and attracting all sorts of people. Cardiff Council estimates that 20,000 people visit the place in a typical week, looking for everything from vacuum bags to budgies, or maybe just a cuppa. This diversity is one of the market’s main strengths. Factor in the sense of community and human interaction, plus great customer service and stallholders’ knowledge and experience, and you have a package worth shouting about. I see much of this in just a few minutes spent at Hatt’s Vintage Emporium, the menswear outfitters run by dapper father and son team, Stuart and Levi Talbot. The pair offer pre-owned vintage clothing, tailoring and their own label, selling handmade, limited edition waistcoats, designed and made in-house. “There are no double figures,” says Stuart, referring to just how limited these editions are. “There’s only ever one of each size in any style we cut. So once you’ve got yours, you’ve got the only one.” Cardiff Market is a bit of a one-off, too. The stalls may be disparate but they share similar values, says Stuart. “Every one of these businesses in here is making a living – not necessarily making a fortune, but making a living, and it’s down to customer service. w 14 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

THE MARKET OFFERS CHARM, NOISE AND A

HEALTHY DOSE OF ‘REAL CARDIFF’

The market building in all its Victorian glory, captured from the balcony

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

CARDIFF MARKET

“I’ve had people coming in here after visiting a department store where the staff didn’t know what a cravat was. What you get here that you often don’t get on the outside is knowledge and experience, and people prepared to do that extra bit for the customer.” He breaks off to welcome a gaggle of freshers to his little shop. He explains to them what he offers, asks them about their courses, and tells them that photography students are welcome to use his space and clothing for assignments free of charge. It’s a nice touch. New students are far from the only out-oftowners to visit. “The market is a key asset and part of the city’s DNA,” says Heledd Williams, head of Visit Cardiff. “We are very proud to be able to sell Cardiff and its many attractions to the world, and the market is a unique experience.” “Tourists absolutely love it here,” says Lynette Ford, owner of The Woolpack, these days the best place in town for high quality vintage buttons. “A couple of days ago, an American couple came in. They’d been to Cardiff two years ago and were back again, wanting to buy more of my fancy scarves. They even remembered my name! They needed four before they left Cardiff, so I’ve been knitting like the clappers.” As we talk, a repeat customer who has come all the way from Gloucester approaches, looking for advice regarding a ball of wool that she has purchased online, she admits sheepishly. She shows it to Lynette who is happy to dispense nuggets of trusted advice. I get the feeling I’m in the presence of knitting’s answer to Yoda. Kevin O’Leary, meanwhile, is quietly doing a crossword and enjoying a coffee at B.R. Donnelly café, which he visits three or four times a week. For the electronics and mathematics lecturer, the market is en route from his home in Grangetown to Cardiff University. 16 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

(Clockwise, from top left) Sullivans’ colourful fruit and veg stall; the market’s ornate façade; Stuart Talbot, owner of Hatt’s Vintage Emporium; the old clock out front; Ashton’s Fishmongers, one of the biggest in the UK

Cardiff Market is in Kevin’s blood. For many years, his parents ran a fruit and veg stall that had previously been in the ownership of his father’s family, and at which Kevin himself worked as a schoolboy and student. “The market’s on my commute, but I’d make the journey to come here anyway,” he says. “I use the spices shop, buy meat here, get tailoring done, and I’ve been coming to this café forever. The market’s a good place. It’s a case, I think, that if we don’t use it, we’ll lose it.” Sian B Roberts, who runs food tour company, Loving Welsh Food, agrees. “It’s a fabulous venue – we all need to use it more,” she says. Sian takes small groups of visitors (and locals, including me last year) on Cardiff food tours each Friday and Saturday. “We visit cafés, delis, family businesses, places of historical and architectural interest and venues you can only visit in Cardiff. The market comprises all of these, and much more.” The tour takes in Ashton’s fishmongers for their laverbread and cockles, as well as Market Deli for faggots and Clark’s pies. “Many of our guests come from overseas and they love trying the very different foods, and walking around the beautiful building with all its history and colourful characters,” she says. “Residents of Cardiff who come on the tour get very nostalgic when they visit the market – and tell us stories of when they used to visit as children.” Next year, Loving Welsh Food will take also

CARDIFF MARKET

THE MARKET IS A GREAT PLACE FOR

INDEPENDENT START-UPS TO TEST THE WATER

this just came up,” says owner and dyed-in-thewool mod, Paul Reeves. “Another big pull is that a menswear shop called Gwyn’s used to be in this very unit a long time ago, and people have often said my shop reminds them of it.” Paul’s music- and football-inspired fashion fits in well with his neighbour, Kellys Records. Roath’s loss is most definitely the market’s gain; don’t be surprised if you see a row of vintage scooters parked outside on St Mary Street soon. From the newest member of the market’s community to one of its oldest is but a short walk to the other side of the balcony. Eighty-year-old Clifford Jones from CLJ Electrics has spent all his adult life working here. Softly spoken and amenable, Clifford – like everyone I approach – is more than happy to chat in-between helping customers to find specific components. “It’s very rewarding when people say they’ve been everywhere looking for a particular item and they find it here,” he says. Also reeling in loyal customers is Ashton’s Fishmongers, another market institution and one of the biggest retail fish outlets in the UK. “If people who work in the city centre swing by on their way home, they can pick up some wonderful fresh fish – we’ve 40 to 50 varieties on the counter,” says Ashton’s MD, Jonathan Adams. “We’re happy to prepare the fish, free of charge. Then there’s fruit and veg and the butchers – you can grab everything you need to make a healthy, home-cooked meal.” w

make stops at Cheese Pantry, which, along with vegan/vegetarian eatery, Milgi, represents the new generation creeping into the market. “I’d been wanting to open a cheese shop in the centre of Cardiff for years, and we’re still superexcited about being here,” says Mel Boothman, co-owner of Cheese Pantry, which opened late last year. “It’s quirky and unusual, and has real history to it, which I love. As it’s Council-owned and so central, it’s a great place for independent start-ups to test the water, and be among a community where everyone’s got each other’s backs.” “Other businesses have welcomed us and been really supportive,” confirms Owen Davies, Mel’s Cheese Pantry partner. “Being here has given us a great profile and we’ve learnt a lot already.” As we chat, Sophie Smith from coffee and vinyl shop, Outpost, stops to say hello. She has been hard at work preparing a new stall, which is due to open very soon, though they’re keeping their original shop in Castle Emporium. “We’re really excited to be opening up alongside strong independent brands such as Cheese Pantry, Milgi, Clancy’s and Kellys,” says Sophie. “The market is an amazing space and we’re really happy to be serving speciality coffee here and opening ourselves up to an entirely new crowd.” Probably the newest shop here is the mod-tastic Mojo King, which is in the process of relocating from Roath. “I’ve always wanted a city centre place but the overheads are just so high; then www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 17

CARDIFF MARKET

It’s the smell of Ashton’s fish that to me as a child was Cardiff Market, serving to lure in – or perhaps ward off – passers-by on Trinity Street. Having opened in the market in 1890 (incredibly, by that time, the firm was already 90 years old), the Adams family took over the business from the Ashton family in 1973. In more than 200 years, it’s only had three owners. Jonathan started working in the firm aged 11, eventually taking over from his father. It’s this sense of continuity and community, and of history, that I love about the market. Take Market Deli, for example – a small, family-run business that has been located at the same stall since 1928. Ashton’s has evolved and grown to meet the demands of the booming restaurant scene (it supplies Bar 44 and James Sommerin, among many others, and also offers free home delivery), picking up the slack from a decrease in over-thecounter sales. “Around 15 years ago, we were serving nearly 10,000 customers a week on the counter, and now we’re serving about 2,000,” says Jonathan. Times have clearly changed. Companies like Ashton’s have adapted, as has Kellys Records, which will celebrate its half-century in 2019, and has a thriving online business in addition to its vast array of vinyl. As a teenage rock fan growing up in Cardiff, most Saturday trips to town featured a visit to Kellys. Famous people shop here, too – the Manics, Bruce Dickinson, Martin Freeman and even snooker legend Steve Davis are customers of the store that Allan Parker took over from his aunt and uncle back in 1991. These days, Allan is also chairman of the Cardiff Central Market Tenant Association, which is working with Cardiff Council to revive the market’s fortunes. A damning Council report in

(Above) Cheese Pantry co-founders Melissa Boothman and Owen Davies; (Below, right) Market delivery!

I’D LIKE TO BRING IT MORE IN LINE WITH EUROPEAN MARKETS, WHERE YOU CAN SIT AND HAVE A GLASS OF RIOJA AND SOME ANTIPASTI

2014 concluded that the market was dirty and chronically underfunded – yet improvements have been made and, encouragingly, many more are planned. “The management of the market is evolving,” Allan explains. “There’s been a recent dramatic upheaval, bringing tenancies into line and speeding up the process of potential new businesses being vetted. We’re more pro-active, and have a far better understanding and working relationship with the Council now, which is great.” Spearheading the change at the Council end is Tye Whithear, Estates Management Officer, who was brought in three years ago. He’s introduced new branding, signage and social media channels. “We’ve got great responses from social media, and it has increased footfall,” he says. “And we had to look at bringing tenants’ service charges down, because the market was originally intended to be a space for start-up businesses. After three to five years, you’d progress to the arcades and later on to the high street.” After years of neglect, improvements are being seen. A sum of £300,000 has been set aside to cover new, low-maintenance lighting and the installation of a new flat roof, both due to be completed in early 2018. And there’s a lot more to come, with exciting plans – hush-hush for now – in the pipeline. “I’d like to bring it more in line with European markets, where you sit and have a glass of Rioja and some antipasti,” says Tye. “The new BBC headquarters and business district is just 500 yards away. Hopefully, in time, this is where the professionals will choose to come and relax.” I really hope so, too. If you’ve not been down to Cardiff Market for a while, I recommend you visit soon. At least it won’t look like you’re following the herd when it suddenly becomes ‘on-trend’. See you there! For more: Twitter: @CardiffMarket_

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advertising feat u re H A I R

CUTTING EDGE An abundance of expertise and exceptional cutting and colouring techniques at BOUVARDIA, Cardiff’s newest contemporary hair salon

ouvardia – a South American flower that represents harnessing the power of your dreams with budding joy and enthusiasm. This was the inspiration for Bouvardia Hair Co, a new hairdressing salon recently opened in Cardiff by three former directors of the city’s Sassoon salon – now sadly closed – who have joined forces in this new business venture. The trio – Alison, Jessica and Georgia – are using this exciting new opportunity to continue providing their exceptional cutting and colouring techniques to loyal and dedicated clients in a bright, new and inviting contemporary salon in the heart of the city. Their wish is to evolve the business further, welcoming new clients and extending the salon by fitting out the top floor and introducing Bouvardia in-salon education. With a combined employment history at Sassoon of over 60 years, Alison, Jessica and Georgia are highly-trained and educated with a brand that is still at the forefront of hairdressing around the world. Alison joined Sassoon in 1988, starting her career as an assistant in the Leeds salon. Her passion and dedication saw her promoted to salon director in 1995, transferring to the Cardiff salon to take on this new role. She is also fully qualified in the deliverance and

assessment of NVQ Hairdressing, and is looking forward to passing on her knowledge to the next generation of stylists. Jessica, meanwhile, joined Sassoon back in 2001, and became creative director in 2008. She translates her high-end fashion ideas into client-friendly, bespoke styles. Having frequently worked alongside the Sassoon creative team at international shows and seminars, she has also lots of experience of working on editorial photoshoots and fashion shows. Georgia joined Sassoon in 1995. She worked her way up from assistant to colour director, holding this position for 10 years. During her time with Sassoon, she was involved in the technical training of assistants, running of the technical department and also worked on shows in and around Europe alongside the Sassoon creative team. Georgia enjoys introducing new colours to her clients, however subtle or striking, and believes that each and every client deserves something bespoke and tailored specifically to their needs. Their loyalty and respect of the Sassoon brand influenced the trio to become a Sassoon Partnership salon at Bouvardia Hair Co. The Sassoon chromatology colour system is used at the salon, alongside the care range and other essential Sassoon products,

available for in-salon styling or to take home, ensuring that clients can keep their hair looking good at all times. They will also soon be introducing new luxury hair treatment, Wellaplex, a range of products designed to strengthen and lift hair. To welcome new clients to our exciting venture, we are offering £10 off cutting services and £20 off colour services until 30 November 2017. We look forward to meeting you!

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www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 21

MEMORY LANES A street corner kiss, lunchtimes in old Tiger Bay, a near-death episode – local residents recall memorable personal experiences at some of Cardiff’s forgotten, overlooked and iconic locations Wor d s a nd photo s by C H R I ST I A N A MODEO Add it iona l photo s by JA K E MOR L E Y & L AU R A L E W I S

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

A FRESH START OUTSIDE THE NATIONAL MUSEUM Melin Edo, owner of Me Design and host of Creative Mornings CDF “For me, a place that means a lot is the row of car parking spaces outside the National Museum in Cathays Park. Not the beautiful park opposite the Museum, or the glorious steps leading up to it, but the car park. Having planned it for months, this is where my then-fiancé Paul arrived in Cardiff after we decided to live together. “He took a bus from Poland to Cardiff (he is pretty much the only person I know who would take a bus instead of flying). “That moment, when he stepped off the bus at that location, felt like the beginning of our new life. Three months later, in August this year, we were married – and we immortalised this spot by taking a wedding photo there.”

PHOTO BY LAURA LEWIS

ardiff Life celebrates our fabulous little city’s finest landmarks, hidden gems (of which there are many) and champions its lesser-known independent bars, restaurants and shops. Yet there’s much more to Cardiff than these cherries on the cake, as it were. I thought it would be fun to celebrate a few humdrum, mostly overlooked spots. But that’s not to say that these everyday, in-between places don’t hold affection for many of us. After all, they are as much ‘Cardiff ’ as the city’s landmarks. Some of these unexceptional places have even been rendered unforgettable, holding special memories known only to one or two people. Have you ever wondered what events have taken place over the decades or centuries in the public spaces that we use every single day? This is a modest attempt to open a few windows on other Cardiffians’ lives by uncovering very personal, secret moments that occurred on the city’s streets. It’s a small celebration of sometimes unremarkable locations that witnessed memorable events. We all have a few tales to tell, and I’d like to thank each person who kindly shared his or her story with me.

SECRET CARDIFF

PHOTO BY JAKE MORLEY

STREET CORNER KISS David Le Masurier (on right in pic), owner of Pettigrew Bakeries “A major mundane landmark is the street corner by the [City United Reformed] church opposite Buffalo Bar, where, after a tumultuous first date, I first kissed Lee, my now-husband, nine years ago this month. That moment was four years before Pettigrew was even an inkling of an idea. I say tumultuous because Lee didn’t know we were on a date. He’d arranged to meet friends at the Iris Prize Film Festival and I talked his friend into my coming, then spent the evening trying to play it cool while also trying to convince him it was actually a date. “Years go by with me never going near that street. I see they’ve recently built student flats opposite. But there’s nothing to mark that we were ever there or that anything remotely special occurred here. When I do wander past from time to time, it hits me like a wave. I can’t help smiling and thinking back to all the hope, excitement and innocence.”

NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCE ON CAERPHILLY ROAD Salvatore Amodeo, my dad “One dry, almost sunny morning in the summer of 1974, I was driving to work along Caerphilly Road, heading from home in Rhiwbina to my office in Penarth Dock. Just south of the traffic lights, at the junction with Maes-Y-Coed Road, the car behind began flashing its lights – it was an old friend. “I was surprised as I hadn’t seen him for several years, so I stopped my car and went to say hello but, unwisely, stood close to his car on the driver’s side. We were having a brief chat and the next thing I remember, I was somehow flying through the air and over the bonnet of his car, then lying flat on my back on the road, just past the front bumper. “I’d been hit on the back by the wing mirror of a large van. Several kind people came to my aid, an ambulance was called and I was rushed to the Royal Infirmary. Luckily, I looked far worse than I actually felt. Even though I had several bloody scratches and bruises, X-rays confirmed that nothing was broken – I was patched up and sent on my way. “One curious aspect of the incident was that whilst waiting for the ambulance to arrive, I was sitting on the kerbside, feeling rather shaken and sorry for myself, when I saw my wife and her father drive past. I tried to wave, but they simply carried on without noticing anything. “As for standing in a busy road, it’s a lesson I’ve not forgotten.” w

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

SECRET CARDIFF

LUNCHTIME IN OLD TIGER BAY

BIG SMOKE ON THE TAFF Lisa Derrick, writer/copywriter “When I first moved to Cardiff from the little Valleys village of Hirwaun, I was so excited that people walked the streets and places were open beyond 9pm. I used to go out at night just to walk around and absorb the atmosphere of

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

things happening. Cardiff Central train station became a favourite place. I’d sit on those old benches that used to be opposite the station and watch people coming and going – it gave me goosebumps. “Coldstream Terrace became another favourite spot. When I moved to Riverside, the street signified entering the city centre – a symbol of connection. I’d walk over the bridge

PHOTO BY JAKE MORLEY

Paul Lago, group operations manager, Future Inns “I was born in the docks in 1953, long before it was called Cardiff Bay. I lived there with my parents for the first 13 years of my life, before being farmed out to my grandparents on George Street, as seemed to be the way in the 1950s when people had more children than they could probably cope with. Living here in the 1950s was very different. It was a much simpler way of life. “Coming back to Cardiff Bay about 13 years ago has been a real bonus of my job. These days, I work very close to where my grandfather once worked. It’s a curious thing – on a daily basis, I revisit where I went as a child, when I used to take him his packed lunch at the dry dock where he worked for Bailey’s. “In fact, Wales Millennium Centre is right where he worked. Quite often, at about quarter to 12, my nan would ask me to take him a little greaseproof packet of sandwiches and a Camp coffee bottle of cold tea, so I’d get on my bike and ride over to the docks entrance. Though it wasn’t allowed, the security men knew me, so always waved me through. “I kind of give myself a little hug every time I pass Roald Dahl Plass, and think about how amazed my grandparents would be at how the Bay has been developed. I think they’d also be quite proud that I was still here and a part of it.”

that spans the Taff, watch the river flowing, the train chugging past in the distance. It was also about transition and movement. “Seven years and lots of moves around Cardiff later, I’m now living on Coldstream Terrace, in the 1960s block I eyed up from the very beginning. I have a theory that no matter what time of day or night I look out at Cardiff Bridge, there is always someone crossing it.”

L E I S U R E A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

LANELAY HALL Weddings, celebrations, business co-working or private members club – experience this historic and luxurious venue your own way

avid Edwards has always had a flair for property investing, purchasing his first property from a young age, starting out developing residential homes before moving on to commercial property. After many years of developing, David decided to set up Edwards Investments in 1997. Headquartered in South Wales, Edwards Investments is an exciting property and retail development company, specialising in developing outstanding facilities from existing or new developments. Driving past Lanelay Hall for over a decade, David has always admired the Hall’s striking beauty and strong presence. When the opportunity to purchase Lanelay Hall was presented, he had no reservations. The restoration on Lanelay Hall has respectfully complemented this historic building – timeless architecture beautifully combined with contemporary interior design. Lanelay Hall has seen many cork-popping shindigs over its long history, and David and his team are now giving

people a chance to create their own memories within this magical venue. Whatever the occasion, Lanelay Hall, with state-of-the-art technology and stylish interior design, gives you the flexibility to create your own luxurious and unique experience, and see the wonderful nooks and crannies of this truly amazing venue for yourself. There are five key business areas that make up the Lanelay Hall portfolio: Stay at Lanelay 17 individually designed rooms, ranging from deluxe suites to classic decor. Business at Lanelay Lanelay Hall offers elegant rooms and areas to suit a range of business activities and initiatives. Workplace membership The Hall has created a place to get down to business – perfect for flexible co-working. Lanelay Hall membership The Lanelay private members club gives access to a membership with a difference – a unique bespoke offering to a limited number of VIP members; contact us for more information

Special occasions For weddings, Lanelay Hall can comfortably accommodate 100 guests in its main ballroom. Every occasion will be given a bespoke service in line with client needs and aspirations. Exclusive access can also be provided for clients who want the Hall to themselves. CL

David Edwards and his Lanelay hosts invite you to join them for a tour of this magnificent venue. Please call 01443 558309 or email info@lanelayhall.co.uk to book your appointment. www.lanelayhall.co.uk

ARTS

BUYING ART

(Below) Some Corner Of A Foreign Field by Scarlett Raven, at Castle Fine Art

IN THE FRAME Purchasing a piece (or two) of art can be a lifetime investment, and never a decision to take lightly. But where to begin? And what to buy right now? Don’t worry – these Cardiff galleries will see you right... I nter v iew s by V E L I M I R I L IC 30 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SEE AS MUCH ART AS YOU CAN – FOLLOW YOUR EYES AND HEART

One Perspective by semiabstract illustrator, Oliver Gaiger, at Martin Tinney Gallery

hen it comes to art, most of us know the sort of stuff we like. But when it comes to actually buying the stuff, where do you start? Which are the go-to galleries? How do you even know whether or not an artist is worth collecting? Or whether a piece is any good? The truth is, it doesn’t really matter – there’s no right or wrong way to go about this (as ever, the key mantra is ‘buy what you love’), and you can spend as much or as little as you like. If you’re looking for statement pieces – to collect or display – here are a few wise words from some of Cardiff’s art experts to set you on the right path...

MOST POPULAR ARTISTS IN YOUR GALLERY RIGHT NOW?

We’ve had four very successful solo exhibitions this year – Gwyn Roberts, David Tress, Chris Prout, and Martin Llewellyn – and all have sold really well. Elizabeth Campbell, Albany Gallery Sarah Jane Brown (landscape), Paresh Nrshinga (abstract), Howard Jones (watercolour) and Mark Zytynski (photorealism). Marlene Outrim, Off The Wall

ON THE UP OLWEN MOSELEY, Dean at Cardiff School of Art and Design, on why you should consider buying student or graduate art There are three reasons to purchase student or graduate art. The first two are about investment: one is the gamble that an affordable purchase will one day reap financial riches when the artist achieves fame. The second is the altruistic, warm glow that comes from investing in emerging artists and being a patron of the arts. Materials are expensive and ‘time is money’ – most students and graduates support themselves with part-time work to fund their practice. The third is much more personal and what we would recommend when choosing what to buy, which is, buy what you like. That way, even if it never increases in value, at least you have something that brings you pleasure. For more: csad.online

A particularly popular work is Zen 1 by Ping-Gang Cheng, which perfectly combines the techniques of Western oil painting with traditional Chinese verve and calligraphy. Other popular artists include Hilary Barry and Allan Storer. Cate Cheng, Boundary Art Artists such as Bob Dylan and Ronnie Wood already have a huge fan following, so naturally they are very popular. The likes of cityscape artist Paul Kenton and landscape painter Richard Rowan are also wellloved by our clients. Kimberly Lewis, Castle Fine Art It changes all the time, really, but exhibitions by Shani Rhys James, Meirion Ginsberg, Mary Lloyd Jones (exhibition coming up in November), Kevin Sinnott (look out for a show of new work in December) and Cardiff artist Harry Holland are always highly anticipated. Myfanwy Shorey, Martin Tinney Gallery

WHAT’S NEW WITH YOU?

Our latest exhibition – Holiday House, by artist Molly Rooke – which is now open by appointment. Cat Gardiner, TEN New to us this year is Mike Carter, a Cardiff-based w artist who was featured in the BBC2 programme www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 31

ARTS

BUYING ART

about the RA Summer exhibition – he will have his first part-exhibition here in February 2018. Other artists new to the gallery are Gerald Green, Euan McGregor and ceramicist Willie Carter, whose standout quirky teapots and platters are proving extremely popular. Elizabeth Campbell, Albany Gallery

THERE IS NO REAL WAY TO DEFINE ‘GOOD’ – ART SPEAKS TO US ALL DIFFERENTLY

Some beautiful, incredibly detailed etchings on copper of bees and butterflies by Annette Townsend, who used to be employed by the National Museum as a scientific artist. Marlene Outrim, Off The Wall We’ve just launched the second instalment of Bob Dylan’s sell-out collection, The Beaten Path, which captures iconic images of his journey through America whilst on tour. We’re also exhibiting the Diamond Dust collection by popular artist, Simon Claridge, for which he has translated legendary photographer Terry O’Neill’s iconic images into silkscreen prints. Kimberly Lewis, Castle Fine Art

RISING LOCAL STARS ON YOUR ROSTER OR RADAR?

A rising star in the ceramics world is gallery artist, Sophie Southgate. She’s just been announced as an Ambassador for Ceramics in Europe by the judges of Future Lights, who showcase the future of ceramics. Cat Gardiner, TEN

Death’s Head Hawkmoth (etching on copper) by Annette Townsend, at Off The Wall Gallery

(Above) Epitome (oil on canvas) by Aidan Myers, at Boundary Art

Peter Kettle is an exciting young talent on the rise in contemporary landscape painting. Two others to watch are Pembrokeshire artists Maggie Brown and Tim Fudge. Elizabeth Campbell, Albany Gallery Aidan Myers, Lorraine Howells, Elaine Graham, Emma Wood and Robert Sawtell, amongst others. Marlene Outrim, Off The Wall We’re keeping a close eye on Aidan Myers and Daniel Edwards, whose artwork keeps going from strength to strength. Both of them exhibited at our Birth/Rebirth exhibition earlier this year, to mark the gallery’s second anniversary. Cate Cheng, Boundary Art Scarlett Raven’s work is really exciting. Her use of the Blippar app has led her to be the first oil painter in the UK to delve into the world of augmented reality. Whilst her paintings have a conventional surface at a first glance, Blippar allows the viewer to use their smartphone to unlock the creative journey of each painting. She’s such an innovative artist who is really changing how we all view art. Kimberly Lewis, Castle Fine Art

WHAT’S THE VERY FIRST ARTWORK YOU FELL IN LOVE WITH? A Ceri Richards lithograph from his Dylan Thomas folio of prints. This was the beginning of serious collecting for me. And I still love it to this day, nearly 15 years later. Cat Gardiner, TEN 32 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

BUYING ART

Frida Kahlo (marquetry) by Emma Wood, at Off The Wall Gallery

ARTS

I remember gatecrashing a private view at Martin Tinney Gallery back in its very early days, when it used to be on Windsor Place. The colourful orange and blue palette of a Neil Canning painting (The River) immediately struck me, with two sheep looking out as if in conversation with the viewer. Neil was living and painting in West Wales at the time and I instantly recognised the landscape as being home, having moved from Cardiganshire to Cardiff only a few years before. Myfanwy Shorey, Martin Tinney Gallery

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHETHER A PIECE OF ART IS ‘GOOD’?

This is a tricky, as it opens up a wider, muchdebated theme of what is ‘good’, what it is that makes a particular piece ‘good’ and who decides what falls into the ‘good’ or ‘bad’ category. My advice is to buy what you love. See as much art as you can, and follow your eyes and heart. Cat Gardiner, TEN This is purely subjective and a matter of personal taste. If you like it and want to buy it, then it is ‘good’ to you. Elizabeth Campbell, Albany Gallery There is no real way to define ‘good art’. Art speaks to us all differently, based on our background, personal experiences and style. Kimberly Lewis, Castle Fine Art If you are buying from a reputable gallery, they have made an initial judgment for you. After that, it is essentially all about personal taste. Myfanwy Shorey, Martin Tinney Gallery w A semi-abstract flower painting by an artist called Pippa Sykes – it’s a large canvas with clashing bright pinks, oranges and lime greens. I just had to have it! Everyone comments on it when they come to my home. Elizabeth Campbell, Albany Gallery

TEN gallery’s recent exhibition of large-scale work by abstract artist, Andre Stitt

Pieter Bruegel and Lowry are my earliest memories because of the colour, detail and the activity portrayed. You can look at their work for hours and see so much. Marlene Outrim, Off The Wall My first recollection, around the age of three, was of an exhibition of surrealist work by Miró. The pieces were so imaginative and expressive, and reminded me of dreamland. Cate Cheng, Boundary Art I vividly remember having to copy Picasso’s Weeping Woman when I was in school. I was so excited by how different it was to anything else I had seen. I later saw the piece whilst on an art college trip to the National Portrait Gallery and immediately burst into tears. I still get goosebumps whenever I see it. Kimberly Lewis, Castle Fine Art www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 33

ARTS

BUYING ART

For You Know Only Me (oil on canvas) by Allan Storer, at Boundary Art

IF YOU COULD CHOOSE JUST ONE PICTURE OR PIECE FROM YOUR GALLERY TO TAKE HOME, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Together with secondary-market artworks, the vast majority of my collection is the work of TEN gallery artists, to the point where we rotate what’s out on show. But of course, I will always have my eye on something! Cat Gardiner, TEN

(This pic) Simon Claridge’s Bardot With Cigar, at Castle Fine Art; (Below) Ah Yes (Thinking About Toller Fratrum), a mixed media on paper piece by David Tress, at Albany Galery

I’d love to own a painting by David Tress, widely regarded as one of Britain’s most inventive landscape painters. He paints on thick handmade papers that he tears, layers, scores and scrapes, so that his images appear almost sculptural. Elizabeth Campbell, Albany Gallery I love so much of our artists’ work, but if I really had to choose it would be Sarah Jane Brown and Corrie Chiswell – I can’t choose just one, and they are quite different artists! Marlene Outrim, Off The Wall We have a new exhibition beginning at the end of October, with ceramics from Japan. It will include work by Motomu Oyama, who excels in producing iron-glazed teaware. I’ll definitely be taking some of his work home with me, given the chance. Cate Cheng, Boundary Art I’m a massive fan of Bob Dylan, so I would love to own his Brooklyn Heights – I feel like he has truly captured the atmosphere of New York in this painting. The shadows on the building and the snowy pavement really make it feel like you’re viewing a movie scene. Kimberly Lewis, Castle Fine Art

YOU HAVE BEEN READING

If you’re paying: Evelyn Williams’ Husband and Wife Nest Building oil on canvas, for its playfulness and tenderness. If I’m paying: any of [semi-abstract illustrator] Oliver Gaiger’s paintings – and I can spread the payments using the Arts Council’s interest-free Collectorplan scheme for purchasing work by a living artist. Myfanwy Shorey, Martin Tinney Gallery

Cate Cheng Boundary Art 3 Sovereign Quay Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay; boundaryart.com

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

Elizabeth Campbell Albany Gallery 74 Albany Road, Roath; albanygallery.com

Kimberly Lewis Castle Fine Art St David's Dewi Sant, Cardiff; castlegalleries.com

Marlene Outrim Off The Wall Gallery The Old Probate Registry, Cardiff Road, Llandaff; galleryoffthewall.com

Myfanwy Shorey Martin Tinney Gallery 18 St. Andrew's Crescent, Cardiff; artwales.com

Cat Gardiner TEN 143 Donald Street, Roath; gallery-ten.co.uk (By appointment only)

LOCAL COLOUR

HOWARD JONES & LOUISE COLLIS Coastal Houses Howard Jones - Watercolour on paper

Amazing, colourful works of South & West Wales. Show now on.

Usk Valley Louise Collis - Oil on Board

The Old Probate Registry, Cardiff Rd, Llandaff, Cardiff CF5 2DQ. T : 029 20554469 E : art@galleryoffthewall.com. Open Tuesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Friday 9.30-5.30 Sat 10.00-4.00 The Hayes Howard Jones - Watercolour on paper

www.galleryoffthewall.com

Rapeseed Flat Holme from Lavernock Louise Collis - Oil on Board

T H E A L B A N Y G A L L E RY

ROYAL INSTITUTE OF PAINTERS IN WATERCOLOUR Until 4th November WINTER EXHIBITION 9th November - 13th January

www.albanygallery.co.uk 74b Albany Road, Cardiff, CF24 3RS 029 2048 7158 | info@albanygallery.com Gallery open: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays 11am-4pm

Music/theatre/film/more

HISTORY REPEATING This typically striking Welsh Lady print from Cardiff-based illustrator and graphic designer Matt Needle caught our eye. “It’s inspired by Welsh heritage and traditional patterns/elements from Welsh history,” says Matt. “I based it on a ‘Welsh lady’ portrait that was hanging up at my grandparents’ house when I was growing up.” Available at £20 for an A3 giclée print, or £33 for a larger A2 (digital print on silk), it’s seriously covetable – and, if it’s not too soon to suggest such things, the perfect Christmas stocking-filler. For more: mattneedle.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 37

20 October – 20 November

The Other Room do Ariel Dorfman’s thrilling Death And The Maiden; Northern comic Justin Moorhouse; former Yazoo singer Alison Moyet, still on top form

Plays/Shows/ Performance U N TI L 2 8 O C T O B ER

OF MICE AND MEN August 012 present John Steinbeck’s American monolith – think Sergio Leone meets The Little House On The Prairie. Chapter; chapter.org U N TI L 2 8 O C T O B ER

RICHARD III The Richard Burton Company’s contemporary spin on one of the Bard’s most sinister characters. Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; rwcmd.ac.uk U N TI L 2 8 O C T O B ER

STARS IN THE MORNING SKY Moscow’s prostitutes are banished to a derelict hostel on the city’s outskirts for the 1980 Olympics. Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; rwcmd.ac.uk

U N TI L 3 N OV E MBER

THE CHERRY ORCHARD Radical reboot of Chekhov’s masterpiece, set in early ’80s Wales at the dawn of the Thatcher regime. Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk 2 3 - 2 8 OCTOBER

LITTLE WOLF Surreal and blisteringly funny, Lucid Theatre’s present-day retelling of Ibsen’s classic, Little Eyolf, finds a couple facing their ultimate fear. Chapter; chapter.org 2 4 - 2 5 OCTOBER

P.A.R.A.D.E An epic spectacle of dance, music, performance and art – a reworking of the revolutionary 1917 Paris original – created by National Dance Company Wales and artist Marc Rees. Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

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

31 O C TO BER – 10 NO VEMBER

8 NO VEM B ER

1-2 NO VEMBER

14-25 NO V EM B ER

DEATH AND THE MAIDEN Ariel Dorfman’s provocative, Olivier Award-winning thriller. The Other Room; otherroomtheatre.com

DRACULA: THE BLOODY TRUTH Comedy theatre from Le Navet Bete (see arts feature, page 44). Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 2-4 NO VEMBER

ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS Penarth-based Black RAT Productions do Richard Bean’s fast-paced, riotous farce. Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; rwcmd.ac.uk 8-19 NO VEMBER

CARDIFF DANCE FESTIVAL Cutting edge dance from Wales, UK and around the world. Various venues; dance.wales

STEPHEN FRY: MYTHOS Vivid retelling of the myths of Ancient Greece. St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk TIGER BAY A revolution is brewing in the dark and restless world beneath Cardiff’s Butetown, in this epic new musical drama. Starring John-Owen Jones as the Third Marquess of Bute. Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk 15-18 NO V EM B ER

HOW TO WIN AGAINST HISTORY Seiriol Davies’ tragi-comic new musical about Henry Cyril Paget, 5th Marquis of Anglesey, the Victorian toff who was “too weird for the world.” Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk

Comedy 2 6 O C TO B E R

MILTON JONES King of the one-liners, no less. St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 2 8 O C TO B E R

JIMMY CARR Best leave your moral compass at home... St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 9 NOVEMBER

THE NOISE NEXT DOOR Gloriously chaotic comedy improv quartet. Glee Club; glee.co.uk 1 2 NO V E M B E R

JUSTIN MOORHOUSE Sparky northern stand-up. Glee Club; glee.co.uk

Life’s a beach: Cardiff Dance Festival showcases contemporary dance from around the world

3 N OV E MBE R 1 5 NO V E M B E R

RORY BREMNER The satirical impressionist tries to make sense (and nonsense) of Trump, Brexit, Boris et al. Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk

Music 2 7 O C TO B E R

SLEAFORD MODS Brilliantly belligerent Lincs duo, with “electronic punk-hop raps for the working class.” Cardiff University; cardiffboxoffice.com

MALIJA Drummerless trio, combining bluegrass, tango and shimmering, abstract grooves. Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; rwcmd.ac.uk 4 N OV E MBE R

FATHER JOHN MISTY Polarising American singer/ songwriter/provocateur. Cardiff University; cardiffboxoffice.com 8 N OV E MBE R

WIRE Influential art-punk combo. The Globe; globecardiffmusic.com

2 8 O C TO B E R

SINFONIA CYMRU Featuring work by Haydn, Bartok and Schubert. Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; rwcmd.ac.uk 2 9 O C TO B E R

A NIGHT AT THE MUSICALS Musicals spectacular, with Lucie Jones, Sophie Evans et al. St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 1 NOVEMBER

THE HALLÉ Manchester’s symphony orchestra, with pieces by Ravel, Debussy and Mussorgsky. St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

Other, so brilliantly attests. St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES Principal guest conductor Xian Zhang oversees the sweeping scores of Verdi and Respighi. St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 1 0 N OV E MBER

BLONDIE Heart Of Glass, Atomic, Sunday Girl, Rapture – we could go on... Motorpoint Arena; motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk 1 8 N OV E MBER

ALISON MOYET The ex-Yazoo singer continues to shine, as her recent album,

MEGAN COPE & HELEN JOHNSON Joint exhibition of large-scale paintings and video work, exploring the complex colonial and cultural relationship between Australia and Britain. Chapter; chapter.org

20 NO VEMBER

VAN MORRISON Legendary Irish troubadour. St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

Art

UNTIL 1 4 J ANUARY 2 0 1 8

IN THE FUTURE THEY ATE FROM THE FINEST PORCELAIN Major touring exhibition of work by interdisciplinary Palestinian artist, Larissa Sansour. Chapter; chapter.org

UNTIL 4 NO VEMBER

HARRIE McCORMICK: CREATURES Abstract deconstructions of the animal form. Cardiff MADE; Twitter: @CardiffMADE

UNTIL 3 1 J ANUARY 2 0 1 8 UNTIL 4 NO VEMBER

1 0 N OV E MBER

UNTIL 2 4 NO V EM B ER

PETER PRENDERGAST Bold, expressionist landscapes. Martin Tinney Gallery; artwales.com UNTIL 4 NO VEMBER

ROYAL INSTITUTE OF PAINTERS IN WATERCOLOURS Paintings from selected members of the RI. Albany Gallery; albanygallery.com UNTIL 12 NO VEMBER

MOLLY ROOKE: HOLIDAY HOUSE Characteristic manipulation of found images. TEN; gallery-ten.co.uk

BACON TO DOIG: MODERN MASTERPIECES FROM A PRIVATE COLLECTION Prominent 20th-century British artists and sculptors, including Francis Bacon, David Hockney, Grayson Perry and more. National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk UNTIL 1 1 M ARCH 2 0 1 8

SWAPS Work by leading 20th and 21st century photographers Henri Cartier-Bresson, Eve Arnold, Bill Brandt and more, from the collection of documentary photographer, David Hurn. National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk w

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

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

Stars In The Morning Sky, set during the 1980 Moscow Olympics 2 8 O C TO B E R – 11 N OV E MBE R

SATU RDAY 4 NO VEMBER

2 8 O C TO B E R – 9 D E CE MBE R

SATU RDAY 4 NO VEMBER

THE F WORD Group exhibition of fashion photography, illustration and original garments. The SHO; thesho.co.uk

LAND/SEA Artist Mike Perry’s hard-edged environmental narrative, combining photography and painterly aesthetics. Ffotogallery; ffotogallery.org

CARDIFF BLUES v ZEBRE Guinness Pro 14, KO 7.35pm. BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park; cardiffblues.com CARDIFF DEVILS v SHEFFIELD STEELERS League, face-off 7pm. Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

SATU RDAY 1 1 NO VEMBER 8 -2 5 NO V E M B E R

MARY LLOYD JONES Established landscape artist. Martin Tinney Gallery; artwales.com

Sport S AT URDAY 2 8 O CTOBE R

CARDIFF CITY v MILLWALL Sky Bet Championship, KO 3pm. Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk S AT URDAY 2 8 O CTOBE R

CARDIFF DEVILS v COVENTRY BLAZE Challenge Cup, face-off 7pm. Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com TUE S DAY 3 1 O C TOBE R

CARDIFF CITY v IPSWICH TOWN Sky Bet Championship, KO 7.45pm. Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk

WALES v AUSTRALIA Under Armour Series, KO 5.15pm. Principality Stadium; principalitystadium.wales SU N DAY 1 2 NO VEMBER

CARDIFF DEVILS v EDINBURGH CAPITALS League, face-off 6pm. Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com SATU RDAY 1 8 NO VEMBER

CARDIFF CITY v BRENTFORD Sky Bet Championship, KO 3pm. Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk SATU RDAY 1 8 NO VEMBER

CARDIFF DEVILS v FIFE FLYERS League, face-off 7pm. Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

SATU RDAY 1 8 NO VEMBER

WALES v GEORGIA Under Armour Series, KO 2.30pm. Principality Stadium; principalitystadium.wales

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

WANT MORE? Sign up now for the Cardiff Life newsletter... As editor of this fine mag, there’s nothing I enjoy more than drawing your attention to this buzzing city’s best events and happenings. To keep readers fully updated about what’s going on in Cardiff, we email out a free newsletter every Friday, packed with news, our essential ‘see and do’ picks of the week, tips and special offers. So, if you’d like a friendly ‘hello’ from us in your inbox as the weekend beckons, then sign up today*: mediaclash.co.uk/cln (*Don’t *Don’t worry, we won’t share your data with any third parties – that’s just not our style)

C A R E H O M E S a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

CARDIFF CARE HOME RAISEs CASH FOR CHARITY WITH A BREW Private care home TY LLANDAFF raises £200 for charity, as part of Macmillan’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning

y Llandaff, a private nursing, residential and respite care home in Pontcanna, invited friends, family and the local community for coffee and cake in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support recently. The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning is Macmillan’s biggest fundraising event for people facing cancer. It asks people all over the UK to host their own coffee mornings, and donations on the day are made to the charity, which last year raised around £29.5 million. “Fundraising gives you such a good energy," said Ty Llandaff care home manager, Janice Evans. "Having an open day where residents and visitors can donate to charity is a fantastic idea. The money we have raised will help

ensure that anyone with cancer does not have to face the disease alone.” Ty Llandaff opened in January this year, and has 70 luxurious en-suite bedrooms across three floors. The home has the ability to accommodate people for nursing or residential care from the age of 18, and offers short-term respite care for individuals looking for a place to recuperate after surgery or illness.

For more information about Ty Llandaff call Janice on 02920 600 100, email info@tyllandaffcare.com or visit www.tyllandaffcare.com

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E L E G A L

THANKS FOR LISTENING Lisa Davies, senior solicitor at BLAKE MORGAN, on the importance of giving the right legal advice at the right time – and delivering it with tact, understanding and compassion

hen Carol and Mary first came to see me, they explained they were old friends who shared a property for companionship and convenience. They were both unmarried and wanted to make wills because Carol had just been diagnosed with a terminal illness. Carol wanted legal assurance that her estate and personal care would remain in their control and not be decided by distant family who were completely unaware of her beliefs and wishes. She needed confirmation too, that her share should pass to Mary with minimum complication and maximum security. However, the total value of Carol’s estate meant that inheritance tax would have to be paid on her death and their house would probably have to be sold to settle the tax bill. During our meeting, I slowly realised that these two women shared an exceptionally close partnership and were a deeply devoted couple. Carefully, I raised this with them and they revealed that they had been in a same-sex relationship for over 30 years. I could certainly understand why they had not wanted to share this information with me right from the outset. They were very private people and did not know me. However, the true nature of their relationship was critical to their estate planning. Spouses and civil partners enjoy a number of tax benefits – including the right to leave each other assets of unlimited value on death without paying any inheritance tax. This was the answer to Carol and Mary’s problem. If they entered into a civil partnership, then Carol could leave everything to Mary and there would be no tax to pay. Mary would still be grieving after Carol’s death, but at least both women could feel relieved that she would be financially provided for and could continue to live in the home they had shared for so many happy years, without having the added stress of moving when she was already going through something as difficult as a bereavement. Carol and Mary entered into a civil partnership and went on to make valid wills as civil partners, leaving everything to each other. Carol died a few months later, and I was then able to help Mary with the administration of her late partner’s estate. I think it was a comfort, both that I took

the burden off her and also that I had known Carol in her lifetime. I was pleased to have been able to make a real difference by listening carefully, building trust and advising with sensitivity. Mary later said I had “understood and fulfilled all our needs, explaining and advising everything with clarity and compassion during this traumatic time for us. You gave us, and now me, invaluable peace of mind for what could be a legal minefield.” It is these types of cases which remind me how important it is for people to get the right advice at the right time. They also remind me why I love what I do.

Lisa Davies, Senior Associate T: 029 2068 6172 E: lisa.davies@blakemorgan.co.uk One Central Square, Cardiff, CF10 1FS

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

Le Navet Bete: fangs for the memories

there will be blood – hopefully none of it real!

A HARD DAY’S BITE Count Dracula will soon be prowling around Cardiff, courtesy of Le Navet Bete. ANNA BRITTEN puts her neck on the line to find out more...

T H E AT R E

ARTS

un isn’t usually a word associated with vampires. Think the po-faced teens of the Twilight series, or the stony faces of Bela Lugosi and Christopher Lee. But one Transylvanian bloodsucker definitely playing it for laughs is the one just spawned by brilliant, Exeter-based physical comedy theatre company Le Navet Bete – coming soon to Cardiff’s Wales Millennium Centre – who mark a decade in the biz with their new show, Dracula: The Bloody Truth, a familyfriendly production that promises to have the vampires back in the ground and leave audiences flying high. Still, you can’t be too careful, so we held a garlic bulb in front of our face as we asked them what people should really expect... Happy 10th anniversary! Can you sum up the last 10 years? It seems like yesterday that we were first meeting in a church hall in Exmouth, trying to make our first show, and now we have a huge repertoire of work that has seen us touring all over the world. We all met at Plymouth University and realised quickly that we shared a similar sense of humour and were interested in making the same type of work. After graduating we decided to take a punt and make a show together with no idea of what the future would hold. Fortunately, people seemed to like what we do. It was definitely hard to start with – the first few years saw us trying to balance different jobs alongside trying to tour and promote Le Navet Bete, but the struggle was worth it. The company has gone from strength to strength, with highlights including touring Mexico, six sell-out Christmas shows at the Barbican Theatre Plymouth, performing at world-renowned festivals and getting paid to wear dresses. Why Dracula? There have been so many different versions of Dracula, which means there is loads of source material for us to be inspired by. Having made a Western, a detective show and a series of fairytales, we thought it was about time we took on a horror! Can you explain your adaptation to us? It’s a sort of play-within-a-play, set in 1900 and presented by Professor Van Helsing, who has written, produced and directed the show to warn people of the real dangers of vampires. If you weren’t already aware, the events portrayed in Bram Stoker’s novel were actual true events that were sensationalised by Stoker just so he could sell more books. Van Helsing is on a mission to set the record straight, and will go to extreme lengths to get his point heard. Will there be lots of blood? There will be blood – hopefully none of it real! But don’t worry if you’re squeamish – we won’t go over the top, and it will all be presented in very good taste. You’re working again with John Nicholson, from awardwinning theatre company Peepolykus... John Nicholson is one of the best comedy directors in the country. This is now our third feature-length show with John, and the process is great. When making/writing comedy, it is so important that the people you’re working with share the same ideas, views and understanding. Just like us, John wants to make work that is funny, surprising, clever, entertaining and stupid – we are a strong team!

Oh, the horror!

What can you tell us about top theatre designer Phil Eddolls’ set? This is our second time working with Phil, following the success of Dick Tracy and the amazing set he designed for us. We didn’t hesitate in commissioning him again for Dracula. As the show is set in 1900, the design is inspired by Victorian theatre. As always when working with Phil, the set is truly interactive. We don’t want to give anything away, but the set might not look the same at the end as it did at the beginning. . . Who are your physical comedy heroes? Charlie Chaplin, Grock, John Cleese, Ade Edmondson, Rik Mayall, Jim Carrey and Rowan Atkinson have to be at the top of the list. However, we are inspired by anyone who puts physicality at the centre of their comedy. Having worked in comedy theatre for some time now, you realise how hard it is to be great. Sustained any injuries during rehearsal? No, not so far – but we haven’t sharpened the fangs yet. If you could be any TV/movie vampire besides Count Dracula, who would you be, and why? Any of the Lost Boys, because they wore double denim and had cool 80s haircuts. Dracula: The Bloody Truth (suitable for ages 8+) is at Wales Millennium Centre from 1-2 November. For tickets and more info, see wmc.org.uk

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

ANTIQUES – INTERIORS

HOBBIES - COLLECTABLES

THE

PUMPING STATION A N T I Q U E S

I N T E R I O R S

Penarth Road, Cardiff CF11 8TT | Open 7 Days a Week 9.30am – 5.30pm | Including Bank Holidays | Free car parking

TEL: 02920 221085 | WWW.THEPUMPINGSTATION-CARDIFF.CO.UK

Gifts/fashion/stores/more

HIVE MIND

Did you know there’s a honey farm in Lisvane? With more than 42 years’ experience, Lisvane Honey Farm offers a wide range of products including beeswax polish, candles, balms and soaps. And let’s not forget the delicious, unadulterated natural honey (priced from £4 a jar), made by Nature’s Little Helpers, the on-site ‘one stop shop’ for all your beekeeping needs. They also offer ‘beekeeping experience’ days, and have mentored many a ‘newbee’ beekeeper in the city. Who knew?

Lisvane Honey Farm, Mill Farm Industrial Estate, St. Mellons Road, Lisvane, Cardiff CF14 0SH; natureslittlehelpers.co.uk

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

1 2

BLACK NIGHT

DEFECT TO THE DARK SIDE – HALLOWEEN IS COMING... 5

1. FELINE GROOVY

2. BACK TO BLACK

3. YO, BLOOD!

4. BUCKLE UP

5. HANGING AROUND

Black cat apron, £19.95 Just add witch and broomstick From Kitchens, 14 High St, Cardiff; kitchenscookshop.co.uk

Otley O6 porter, £3.35 An oldie, but most definitely a goodie – Otley’s dark, decadent, award-winning brew is perfect for a stormy Halloween night From Wally’s Deli, 38-46 Royal Arcade, Cardiff; wallysdeli.co.uk

Nos Da-feratu A3 digital print, £5 (plus £3 P+P) Cardiff-based artist Tom Kitchen’s take on the German expressionist horror masterpiece – essential Taffywood daftness From I Loves The ‘Diff; ilovesthediff.com

Lori leather mid-calf boots by MICHAEL Michael Kors, £250 Now that’s what we call a serious boot From Michael Kors, 19 The Hayes, Cardiff; michaelkors.co.uk

Bat garland, £17.50 Handmade to order by Cardiff’s CherryChamberStudio. Not just for goths... From Etsy; etsy.com/uk/shop/ CherryChamberStudio

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

SHOPPING

ED’S CHOICE 8

6. BISH-BOSCH

7. ALL WRITE NOW

8.CLEAN LIVING

9. BIG ASK

10. GOURD BLIMEY

Unisex Bosch shirt by Vivienne Westwood, £665 Made with luxurious Habotai silk, and embellished with Hieronymous Bosch’s The Last Judgment print – what’s not to like? From Vivienne Westwood, 55 The Hayes, Cardiff; viviennewestwood.com

Devil’s Day by Andrew Michael Hurley, £12.99 Spooky second novel from the Costa-winning, bestselling author of last year’s The Loney From Waterstones, 2A The Hayes, Cardiff; waterstones.com

Crabtree & Evelyn Black Sea Mud Seaweed soap, £6.75 Made with sea silt and marine algae – cool packaging, too From Central Pharmacy, 63-67 Wellfield Road, Roath; escentual.com

Royal Blood How Did We Get So Dark? CD, £10.99 Second album of muscular riffage from the zeitgeisty Brighton duo From Spillers Records, 27 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff; spillersrecords.co.uk

Pumpkin drinks dispenser, £35 Add a bit of fun to your Halloween punch From John Lewis, St David’s Dewi Sant, Cardiff; johnlewis.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk II CLIFTON CARDIFF LIFE LIFE II 49 www.mediaclash.co.uk 69

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

Co-educational Sixth Form teaching launched By Dr Caroline Pascoe, Headmistress of Monmouth School for Girls

t is an exciting time at Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools because we are launching co-educational teaching in the Sixth Form from September 2018. Every decision we take is with the best interests of our pupils at heart, and the new structure will bring together students from Monmouth School for Girls and Monmouth School for Boys at this crucial stage in their educational and personal development. The move will strengthen the quality of the educational experience and classroom dynamic whilst giving pupils greater flexibility and choice regarding their options. It is also an exciting refinement to our Monmouth Model, which we believe will deliver the best preparation and support to our students in achieving their future ambitions. There are strong educational reasons for moving to this new structure. Co-education for

Sixth Formers improves academic standards through girls and boys bringing complementary skills and ways of thinking to lessons with mutual benefit. Sixth Form students will benefit from a wide choice of over 25 A level subjects and a broad and innovative range of co-curricular and enrichment activities. They will be taught at both sites in co-educational classes and remain members of their current schools, with pastoral care continuing to be delivered by their ‘home’ school. University preparation and careers advice will also be delivered across the Sixth Form by expert staff at both schools. We remain committed to single gender teaching between the ages of 7 and 16, when maturity and pupil interests are different, and to co-education for our youngest pupils in the Pre-Prep and Nursery. Our vision is to deliver an exceptional all-round education for boys

and girls by providing the best balance of single-sex and co-education at the optimum stages of our pupils’ development.

For more information, visit www.habsmonmouth.org, call 01600 710433 for Monmouth School for Boys or 01600 711104 for Monmouth School for Girls

On Friday 22nd September, 9 Park Place Barristers Chambers held a thank you party for their professional clients at Cornerstones. 2017 is a particularly special year for 9 Park Place as it celebrates its 70th anniversary as a Barristers Chambers, providing advocacy and advisory services to clients across the UK.

SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

BOLT from the BLUE Blue, in all its covetable hues, is the colour for AW17...

rom Bottega Veneta to Balenciaga, Miu Miu to Céline, blue is undoubtedly this season’s ‘it’ colour, with everything from aquamarine to deep, inky navy – and beyond – dominating both the luxury and high-street arenas. Whether you choose to emulate the catwalks with a subtle nod to the hue or go all-out blue, it’s easy to incorporate it into your wardrobe. The easiest way to pull off all-over blue is with a killer dress, both for daytime looks and full-on nights out – try floral prints (because florals aren’t just for spring!) or classic block blues, just two of the gorgeous styles available at St David’s various retailers right now. If you want to step into AW17 in style – and without having to overhaul your entire wardrobe – we have three words for you: accessorise, accessorise, accessorise! From a classic clutch to statement watches (we love the ‘Watch Hunger Stop’ Sofie Pavé smartwatch by MICHAEL Michael Kors) and shoes (try Kurt Geiger or Dune, for starters), there are all manner of seriously covetable ranges and styles out there. And if you’re only going to buy one key piece this season, the Mercer Tote by MICHAEL Michael Kors, in stand-out electric blue, is sleek and showy, with enough space to pop in your laptop and flats. Sorted! 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, Twitter (@StDavidsCardiff) or at stdavidscardiff.com 52 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Ruffled Silk-Georgette shirt dress, £335, MICHAEL Michael Kors

3 1

SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

10 9

1. BOSS Orange high neck cotton blouse, £85, Hugo Boss 2. Ennie neckline-detail cocktail dress, £175, Reiss 3. Fur pom-pom hat, £39, Kurt Geiger 4. Ivaa Colour By Numbers shirt dress by Ted Baker, £159, John Lewis 5. Satin maxi shirt dress, £215, Karen Millen 6. ‘Watch Hunger Stop’ Sofie Pavé smartwatch, £399, Michael Kors 7. Mercer large leather tote bag, £315, MICHAEL Michael Kors 8. Suede buckle ankle boot, £225, Karen Millen 9. Jo oversized roll-neck jumper (cobalt), £125, Reiss 10. Porta jacket light, £520, Vivienne Westwood www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 53

GIRL ABOUT TOWN

ANDREA BYRNE News a nchor

CWTCH ME IF YOU CAN Hygge, dogs causing havoc and husband Lee’s new autobiography – it’s another hectic month chez Andrea

myriad of coloured leaves blanket the pavements, the nights have drawn in and the temperatures have taken a tumble – ‘tis well and truly the season of mist and mellow fruitfulness! Before the clocks went back and the heavy coats and thick tights were hoiked out from the back of the closet, I did manage to join a couple of friends for a brief spot of stand-up paddle-boarding in the autumn sunshine; unless I invest in a wetsuit, I fear it might be the last of the watersports for 2017. So, sunbathing and beaches must make way for a bit of hygge, that adopted Danish phrase for enjoying life’s simple pleasures and a ‘feeling of contentment and wellbeing’, which, as far as I can see, the Welsh were doing first. What else is the the word ‘cwtchy’ designed for? Bring on the candles, throws, comfort food and a warm paned! As if on cue, there was a warm paned for everyone at Action Petz indoor dog play area when Lee and I dropped in. We went along to promote their Macmillan Cymru coffee morning, and to toast a mug or two to the charity’s tireless efforts, supporting those living with cancer and their families. Our two cheeky schnauzers, Hank and Marcy, along with Lee’s parents’ labradoodle, had a real ball mingling with the other dogs, causing complete chaos in the process.

HYGGE? THE WELSH WERE DOING THAT FIRST

Perk life: Andrea, husband Lee and pooches at one of Macmillan Cymru’s recent coffee mornings

Our thanks to all the lovely staff at Action Petz for putting up with them entertaining them so well – what a team! Behind-the-scenes at the Byrnes, there’s also been a frenzy of activity recently as my husband has been finalising his autobiography [I can feel a shameless plug coming on – Ed], written with the invaluable help of ITV Wales News correspondent, Richard Morgan. The finishing touches have been put in

place and the book, The Byrne Identity [Told you – Ed], is out now. If you happen to be a rugby fan looking for a stocking-filler, then Lee is going be very busy visiting bookshops around Wales in the next few weeks, signing copies. Can you believe we are talking about Christmas lists already? Follow Andrea on Twitter: @andreabyrnetv, or at andreabyrne.tv

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 55

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

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

The Brass Beetle What, another pizza joint, we hear you cry? Yes, but this one’s a bit different – check out the quirky toppings... By C H R I ST I A N A MODEO

THE

ore than any restaurant that has opened in Cardiff in the last few years, I wasn’t sure what to expect when it came to The Brass Beetle, a pizza place and bar that opened on Whitchurch Road in July. And this was in spite of seeing the smart signs go up, and tweeting about them. Was it the name, which might be more suited to a stylish bar? Did it just seem too slick to be a local indie? As we enter, we’re met by friendly staff. The deep green walls bring warmth, there’s a stylish bar, a huge pizza oven at the back and a bit of piped Primal Scream playing as we sit down. Around us, reserved tables quickly fill up. The place is relaxed and alive with chatter. This is really nice. Hang on, why haven’t we been here before…? The Brass Beetle has been packed since it opened, says Josh, our friendly waiter – an old school friend of Cardiff-based owner, Lauren Anwar, who, it turns out, is a fan of alliteration. For the restaurant name, she had ‘Brass’, but it was her mum who, “in a lightning moment of inspiration,” came up with ‘Beetle’. Mums, eh? What would we do without them? But I’m scurrying ahead. I want to talk a bit about me. It’s no word of a lie when I say I was lucky enough to be brought up on some of the best Italian cooking ever produced in Wales. It equips you with certain standards and expectations that often lead to disappointment. You see, I love pizza more than the Ninja Turtles (and I really like those little guys). Everyone thinks they know what good pizza is, but since we live in a world where Pizza Hut and frozen pizza exists, this ain’t necessarily so. I’m not for a minute suggesting that my standards are better than yours or any of my foodie friends. I’m just trying to explain that I’m not a complete pizza pushover. To get the ball rolling, I order a salted caramel cocktail – don’t judge me – and, loaded with Kahlua, Baileys, vanilla syrup, chocolate bitters and a crown of cream and popcorn, it’s exactly what I was hoping for. If that’s not to your taste, don’t worry – there are plenty of other cocktails to try. We choose two sides, one of which – the (very good) flatbread with a 1:4 scale model of Caerphilly Mountain in freshly-made hummus – comes as a kind of starter. With our pizzas, we get chip-shaped halloumi fries, served with a zesty homemade jalapeno dip. When you come, do have them.

NEOPOLITANSTYLE PIZZAS – FLAT IN THE MIDDLE, NICE AND PUFFY AT THE EDGES – ARE

SPOT-ON

In fact, chances are you will, because the menu’s not huge. That’s no bad thing, of course, but I wonder if doing proper starters might increase the amount a typical person spends. Just a passing thought. There are eight wood-fired pizzas on offer (and four different ones at lunch), but this isn’t your traditional pizza joint. In keeping with the times, they’re mostly quirky. Like the sound of lentils, crispy kale and asparagus on your pizza? Or how about a topping of roasted cauliflower, caramelised leeks, Emmental and parsley? Then you know where to come. Those unusual combinations and full flavours would be wasted if the base wasn’t good, but fortunately, the young fellas at the back of the room know what they’re doing. These are Neapolitan-style – very flat in the middle and nice and puffy at the edges. For my money, absolutely spot-on. My wife Helena opts for a pizza of sweet chorizo, roast heritage tomatoes, hot honey and mozzarella, which offers subtle spice and lovely sweetness. Honey and mozzarella are two of my favourite things – not really sure why I didn’t go for it myself. Ah, yes – because my pizza has cockles, on-trend samphire, pancetta, laverbread and parmesan. Flavour-wise, it’s a hit, but I don’t get on with the samphire. It doesn’t ruin things, not by any stretch of the imagination. And when I take some off to munch, it’s lovely, with a slight, pleasing sort of crunch to it. On pizza, though, its twig-like texture doesn’t do it for me. But would I have this pizza again? You bet. It’s always nice to chat to the people who make your food, especially when they’re very friendly, as they are at The Beetle (I’ve dropped the ‘Brass’ as a sign of affection). One of three chefs hard at work is Ben, and he’s responsible for the chocolate orange brownie with chocolate sauce and pistachio cream. I love chocolate but I don’t like brownies – until now. It’s the chief reason why I leave the place with a huge grin on my face. Arguably more a torte than a brownie, it’s seriously lush. And the pistachio cream is the sort of thing I’d happily eat a bucket of, accompanied by a short power cut, so I could consume the lot in the dark without judgmental stares. Bringing its unique brand of cool to the growing foodie hub that is Whitchurch Road – alongside neighbours Society Standard and Got Beef – The Beetle is yet another independent of which Cardiff can be justifiably proud. It would do well in Covent Garden, Brooklyn, Pontcanna... Great for a good catch-up with a friend (looking around, there’s plenty of that going on), it’s smart yet completely relaxed. The very reasonably priced menu isn’t vast but what it offers is fresh, fun, interesting and, crucially, really well executed. To my mind, that’s the perfect kind of restaurant.

DINING DETAILS The Brass Beetle, 11 Whitchurch Road, Cardiff CF14 3JN; Tel. 02920 623956, thebrassbeetle.co.uk Opening hours Mon–Sun 11am–3pm and 5pm–11pm Prices Pizzas from £5.95 (lunch) and £7.95 (dinner) Vegetarian choice Half the pizzas are vegetarian – all can be made vegan-friendly and gluten-free Drinks Wide selection of cocktails, bottled beers, plus a selection of wine and prosecco Service/atmosphere Relaxed feel, friendly service, perfect for a quick bite with friends or a date night

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

RECIPES

FOOD

CHIPS AWAY! Two must-cook recipes from former Great British Bake Off contestant, celeb chef and lovely local, BECA LYNE-PIRKIS – including her update on Cardiff’s time-honoured Saturday night takeaway, inspired by a famous city street

Curly fries with curry sauce (Serves 2-3) We all have a fondness for Caroline Street – or Chippy Lane/Alley as it’s affectionately known. But my connections to this Cardiff institution go further back than the odd chicken fillet burger of my university days. During the potato famine in Ireland, my great-great-great-grandfather emigrated to Cardiff and the family’s first house was on Caroline Street; a great-aunt of mine also had a fish stall there. As an ode to Chippy Lane, I’ve pimped up the Saturday night classic of chips and curry sauce by making homemade curly fries (time to dust off that spiralizer!), with a quick, easy and very tasty curry sauce to dip them into. Ingredients: For the curry sauce: 2 onions, chopped 1 tbsp vegetable oil

5-6 cloves of garlic, chopped 2 inch piece fresh ginger, chopped 1 tsp garam masala 2 tsps curry powder 2-3 tomatoes, roughly chopped Salt, to taste 1-2 tsps mango chutney Small bunch of coriander (stalks only, chopped) For the chips: 2-3 large potatoes 1 litre vegetable oil Salt, to taste Method: 1. For the curry sauce, heat the oil in a saucepan over a medium heat, add the onions with a pinch of salt and stir. Put a lid on and leave to sweat for five minutes, stirring occasionally. 2. Add the ginger and cook for 3 more

minutes, then add the garlic and cook for 3-4 minutes more. Add the spices and cook for 2 further minutes before adding the tomatoes and a little water (around 150ml). 3. Cook out the mixture, stirring occasionally, until soft. Taste to check the seasoning and sprinkle in more salt if needed. 4. Mix in the mango chutney – add more if you prefer a sweeter sauce – and the coriander stalks. Cook for 2 more minutes then take off the heat and blitz in a blender until smooth. Keep warm until needed. 5. For the chips, heat the oil until it reaches 180˚C, and spiralize your potatoes – I used the ‘medium thickness’ blade. 6. Once the oil is up to temperature, carefully add the potatoes and deep-fry for around 3-5 minutes, until golden – you may need to fry the potatoes in two batches so as not to overcrowd the pan. Drain the fries on kitchen paper, season with a little salt and serve with the curry sauce. w

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 61

FOOD

RECIPES

‘Death by chocolate’ soda bread (Makes one loaf) As a nod to my Irish roots and love of baking, this recipe uses a dark and stormy oatmeal stout made by local brewers, Roath Brewery. Having tasted a few of their beers, I decided that ‘Death Junction’, with its moody name and hint of vanilla, lends itself perfectly to chocolate. This is a ‘no-prove’ loaf – perfect for beginner bakers, but probably not one for the kids! Ingredients 185g self-raising brown flour 135g spelt & rye flour blend, plus extra for dusting 30g cacao powder 1/2 tsp salt 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 150g good dark chocolate, chopped 4 tbsp light brown sugar 280ml Roath Brewery’s Death Junction 1 tsp vanilla extract Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 200˚C (fan) and line a baking tray with greaseproof paper, dusted with a bit of flour. 2. Put the flours, cacao powder, salt, bicarb, sugar and chocolate in a mixing bowl and stir to combine. 3. Make a well in the middle, pour in the beer and vanilla extract, and bring the dough into a ball using a dough scraper or spatula. 4. Tip out the dough onto a work surface dusted with flour, roughly re-shape it into a ball and place it on the prepared baking tray – the dough will be sticky, so don’t handle it too much. 5. Make a cross in the centre of the dough using a sharp knife, then bake in the oven for 30 minutes. Leave to cool slightly before slicing – this rich and slightly bitter chocolate bread is best served slightly warm, with lots of butter. Beca’s new series, Parti Bwyd Beca, will be on S4C from November, with an accompanying book, Bwyd Beca – My Food. For more, see Twitter: @BecaLynePirkis 62 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

f o o d & d r i n k a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

A WORD TO THE WINE As the colder nights draw in, its time to hunker down with a glass or two of really good red wine, says Dean Euden from the wine & spirit education trust (WSET)

’m not a big fan of summer – I have no compulsion to ‘wail on my pecs’ to get beach-ready and really hot days make me unbearably grumpy. Autumn and winter, however, fit my mood and my wine preferences just fine. Deep, enveloping reds are just perfect when the rain is lashing against the window and the fireplace crackles in the background, my little paunch hidden well under colder weather clothes. There are so many beautiful reds I could direct you to but then this magazine would be called Cardiff Wine, so let’s pick a couple covering the old and new world. For the old world, I’m talking Spain and in particular a little-known region called Priorat, located just south of Barcelona. The wines are mainly a blend of Garnacha (aka Grenache) and Cariñena (Carignan) though you will find Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot

and Syrah thrown into the blend on occasion. Big, juicy with notes of plum, cherry and cassis, some oaky spicy notes and sometimes a liquorice note. Wines from Priorat have plenty of body and alcohol levels tend to be at the higher end, as does price. You are looking at least £20+ to get a good example. Drink it with rich casseroles. Let’s take the price down a notch or two and look at a good example from the new world. My go-to would be Chile and the red grape of Chile is Carménère (though it started life in Bordeaux). Carménère is medium-bodied, with flavours and aromas of raspberry, plum and green pepper. It’s not too heavy and its good acidity means that it goes down a treat with tomato-based sauces. Priorat wines will leave you feeling like you’ve been hugged by a wookie, while Carménère is light enough to enjoy on its own, with your

feet tucked under a blanket watching Antiques Roadshow. Expect to pay around £10 for a good Carménère, although if you go up to £15+ you could be knocking on the door of something really special. Think of Priorat as your treat wine and Carménère as your weekend staple. Now light the fire, grab a blanket, hunker down and heed the words of Jon Snow… "Winter is coming!" Enjoy!

For more information, go to: www.wsetglobal.com

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Meet the recruitMENT CONSULTANT Searching for the right job? Or looking to fill a job? Look no further than these guys...

Helen Jones

Andover Nursing Services Ltd 01685 884762 www.andovernursing.com What organisations does your agency work with? We work specifically with NHS Hospital Trusts, independent hospital groups, residential care and nursing homes. We work in the areas of general nursing, mental health and also with children and adolescent services. We provide registered nurses (RN, RNMH and CAMHs) and healthcare support workers throughout South, Mid and West Wales. What is unique about working for Andover Nursing Services? Andover has been established since 2000. Our agency staff are not numbers. We know them all individually and we insist on their personal development and training so they are fit for the roles and assignments we procure. We pride ourselves on high standards, and reliable and committed staff who care about what they do, so we are able to give a quality and tailored service to our purchasers. Top three qualities you look for in a candidate? In addition to the appropriate skill levels, we look for a professional approach, reliability and commitment to the role.

ALUN DAVIES

Vetro Recruitment 02921 660880 www.vetrorecruitment.co.uk What sectors or organisations do you recruit for? We recruit for the health, social care, nursing and education sectors across South Wales. What is the most challenging aspect of your job? Finding enough of the right sort of people is an ongoing challenge for our sectors. The demand for nurses, teachers and support staff has never been higher, and bridging the gap between the demand and supply of these sorts of staff is a very demanding and challenging task. What is the most common mistake candidates make when interviewing? Not doing your homework on an organisation. It’s a basic, but you need to be able to illustrate that you are interested in them as a company when you are interviewing for them. What are the top three qualities you look for in a candidate? In our sectors, it’s a caring nature, honesty and Integrity. Everything else can be taught.

ALASTAIR TULLOCH

Simon Dawes

Vetro Recruitment 02921 660880 www.vetrorecruitment.co.uk What is unique about your recruitment company? In short, our staff. All of the consultants that work within our office have worked within the sectors that we supply to. The people that we supply support some of the most vulnerable and impressionable people within our society. Having consultants that have walked in the shoes of the staff that we supply gives us a greater understanding of how we can support our clients. We also have a three-legged office dog called Opie! What advice would you give to any new candidate? Think about your ‘why’ before applying for your next role. Why do I want this job? Why do I work in this sector? Why should they employ me? You must do lots of preparation before you apply for a job, before you interview and before you accept. We have a lot of information on our website around this. What is the strangest thing you’ve ever seen on a CV? I have been sent birthday invites, menus for restaurants, and even a piece of GCSE homework, plus some things that are not publishable... Check what you’re attaching before you click ‘submit’!

Fresh Recruitment 029 2022 6732 www.freshrec.co.uk

What sectors do you recruit for? Fresh Recruitment provides permanent and temporary staff to clients in South Wales and across the UK. We have specialists in a number of key areas including business support, sales & marketing, finance & insurance, legal and technology. What is unique about your recruitment company? In a highly competitive marketplace, it is essential to match the right candidates to the right clients. To do this, we manage the reputations of both parties by promoting our clients to our candidates, and by having an in-depth knowledge of how that business is run and what it does. On the flip side, we understand the abilities of our candidates and match these very closely to what our clients need. Armed with this knowledge on both sides, we are able to put the right individuals in front of our clients with a high success rate. What is the strangest thing you’ve ever seen on a CV? I once had a CV from a candidate who had seen Bruce Springsteen live about 45 times in cities all over the world, and proceeded to list every gig with the date and venue on the CV!

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More adventures in party-going

Kimberley Nixon (Best Actress)

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

WINNING EXPRESSIONS

Jack Parry Jones (Best Actor)

BAFTA Cymru’s annual British Academy Cymru Awards – honouring the best in film, games and television in Wales – took place at Cardiff’s St David’s Hall. First-time nominees Jack Parry Jones and Kimberley Nixon won the awards for Actor (Moon Dogs) and Actress (Ordinary Lies) respectively, while Aberfan: The Green Hollow – a film commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Aberfan disaster – picked up three gongs. For more: bafta.org/wales

Abi Morgan receives the Sian Phillips Award, presented by Peter Capaldi

Charlotte Church and Jonathan Powell Lucie Jones

Vicky McClure chats to fans on the red carpet

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

John Rhys-Davies (Outstanding Contribution to Film & Television)

SOCIETY

BRICK OF THE BUNCH Marking the tenth anniversary of the opening of their Cardiff office, estate agents Savills celebrated this key milestone with a special party for invited guests and clients at Cardiff Castle. Photos: Two Cats In The Yard Photography (twocatsintheyard.co.uk) For more: savills.co.uk Steve Thomas, Simon Gray and guest

Miles Davies (SWLD), Rhys Morgan (Richard Morgan & Co) and Alex Kalebic (Savills)

Becky Blakeway, Caroline Vanner and Celyn Evans BBC sports and radio presenter, Jason Mohammad

David Bradberry, Ocean Broadhurst, Jeannette McLaren and Dale Marriott

Gary Carver (Savills) and Sarah Clewett (Lewis Silkin)

SOCIETY Jo Carnegie and Laura Kemp

THE WRITE STUFF The second-ever Cardiff Book Festival saw around 1,500 booklovers hear debate and discussion from over 30 acclaimed authors including Robert Harris, Catherine Mayer, Dylan Jones, Marcel Theroux and Kate Hamer.

PHOTO: MORGAN JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY, FFOTON

PHOTO: FFOTON

For more: cardiffbookfestival.co.uk

PHOTO: TRACEY PADDISON, FFOTON

David Howell and Horatio Clare

PHOTO: FFOTON

Catherine Mayer (author of Attack Of The 50 Ft. Women and co-founder of the Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Equality Party)

PHOTO: FFOTON

Cathryn Summerhayes (literary agent, Curtis Brown, @taffyagent)

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

John Gordon Sinclair in mid-flow

PHOTO: FFOTON

PHOTO: BRIAN CARROLL, FFOTON

GQ editor Dylan Jones discusses his new biography of David Bowie

Fatherland author Robert Harris signs his new book, Munich

SOCIETY

BONZER! Cardiff’s five-star St David’s Hotel held a launch event for its new Australasian restaurant and bar, The Admiral St David. Guests enjoyed treats from the venue’s menu, which draws inspiration from the eclectic food culture and bold flavours of Australasia and Asia-Pacific. Elin Rees, Emily Anthony (Bobath Cymru), Sue Wardle, Jayne Brewer and Poppy Sturgess (all Wales Millennium Centre)

Photos: Matthew Horwood Photography (matt-horwood.com) For more: thestdavidshotel.com

Elliott Thomas (Red Buckle) and Lowri Evans (Spectrum Collections)

Jeanette McDonnell (International Greetings), Abi Dimmock (Jack and Amelie), Lyndsey Jenkins (JamJar PR) and Katie Brickle (International Greetings)

Xxxxxx

Nicola Edmunds (St David’s Hotel), former Wales rugby international Ian Gough and Samantha Atkinson (Princes Gate)

Kalina Konova, Debbie Tovey, Angela Williams (all Sony UK TEC) and Russell Durnell (GM, St David’s Hotel)

Mike Pycroft, Coleen Pycroft, Sophie Pycroft (all Spectrum Collections) and Paul Stevens

Elliott Hooper-Nash (Jeffrey Ross), Tom Williams (Maison), Alex Smart (JR Smart) and Ross Hooper-Nash (Jeffrey Ross)

Celebrate Christmas in Style at Barley & Rye Book your table now and join us this Christmas, with colleagues, friends or the whole family. Serving freshly prepared food using the best local ingredients Wales has to offer.

Tel: 02920 345 5051 | Email: info@barleyandrye.co.uk

SOCIETY

CHILD’S PLAY Stylish new children’s lifestyle store Barney & Beau in Pontcanna celebrated its official launch with a fun-packed party, where guests were treated to delicious cupcakes, fizz (not the kids, obvs) and a children’s entertainer.

Amanda Sheehan, Sian Gunney, Mia Kowsor (owner, Barney & Beau), Sam Carter-Ellis and Heidi Dupres

Nida, Yasmin, Poppy and Hana

For more: barneyandbeau.com

Tennessee – looking cool, little man!

Morgan Griffiths and Cybi

70 UP!

Kate Hawkins and Michelle Jones

Celebrating 70 years in business, barristers chambers 9 Park Place – which provides advocacy and advisory services across the UK – held a ‘thank you’ party for their professional clients at Cornerstone conference/arts centre in Cardiff. For more: 9parkplace.co.uk

Paul Hopkins QC (Head of Chambers) and David James

Eifion Williams, Leah Pollard, Rhys Davies, Sion Gwilym, Andrew Barcello and Angela Ricciardi

Emmanouella Maragoudaki, Josef Morgan, Rachel Board, Adrian Jackson, Joseph Edwards, Robert Goodwin and Rhys Davies

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Shake-ups/launches/successes/promotions

CA R D I FF G E T S S ER I O US (Main pic) Bring walking boots for the Brecon Beacons; (Inset) Michelin-starred food at Restaurant James Sommerin in Penarth

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

THE BIG STORY

THE HOTEL INSPECTOR The Welsh Rarebits Collection is looking for someone to experience a whole month of free dining, luxury accommodation and stunning scenery at some of Wales’ most unique and special hotels – could it be you? The company, which showcases Wales’ top hotels, is searching for someone to stay in the stylish properties owned by its members, and travel across every region in Wales to find out exactly what creates the ‘welcome in the hillside.’ All the successful applicant needs to do during their month-long stay is test out the rooms, food and drink, leisure facilities and to rate their overall experience and welcome. They would also need to write about and photograph their stay, sharing their experiences on social media. Applicants should also be

skilled writers and storytellers, with experience in social media, blogging and vlogging. The itinerary is yet to be revealed, but candidates need to be over 18 years old, have a driving licence and their own transport, and would also need to record a one-minute video explaining why they’d be ideal for the role. “Wales is famous for its warm welcome,” said Mike Morgan, co-owner and director of The Welsh Rarebits Collection. “Our Welsh Rarebits hotels are selected based on ‘above and beyond’ quality and personal service, brilliant

attention to detail and hands-on hosts who care. “The successful applicant will travel the breadth of the country and stay in an eclectic collection of traditional country houses, stylish townhouses, boutique hotels, cosy traditional inns, famous eateries and coastal boltholes with luxury spas, as they help us to test whether we have truly perfected the art of the ‘croeso’. It’s a tough gig, but somebody’s got to do it!” For more info about the role and The Welsh Rarebits Collection, see rarebits.co.uk

“IT’S A CHANCE TO SHOW EVERYONE HOW YOUR BUSINESS MAKES CARDIFF A BETTER PLACE...” Ooh, sounds like a great marketing opportunity – but what is it? Find out over the page...

£83.7m

THE BIG NUMBER

That’s the cost of an exciting new conference venue in Wales – and it’s just announced a major new event... See page 79 for more...

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

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BUSINESS INSIDER

AWARDS

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS: GIVE IT A GO! Any local company can win a highly-prestigious Cardiff Life Award – and with nominations opening on 13 November, Cardiff’s businesses are urged to begin considering their entries The clock is ticking down to next year’s Cardiff Life Awards...

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS: KEY DATES 13 NOVEMBER 2017:

Nominations and ticket sales open 27 NOVEMBER 2017:

‘How to win’ seminar 30 JANUARY 2018:

Finalists announced 21 FEBRUARY 2018:

Exclusive reception for finalists and sponsors 15 MARCH 2018:

Cardiff Life Awards – the big night! APRIL 2018 (EXACT DATE TBC):

Winners’ dinner

Now in its fifth year, the über-glam Cardiff Life Awards celebrates local business success and provides an unrivalled business marketing showcase. Open to all Cardiffbased companies and organisations, the Awards are completely free to enter and can be won by anyone: first-time entrant, manytimes winner, advertiser, and even a company which has never appeared in Cardiff Life. All decisions are made by a panel of independent judges, newly selected each year. “Entering the Cardiff Life Awards is a chance to show everyone how your business makes Cardiff a better place,” said Steph Dodd, events manager at MediaClash, Cardiff Life’s publisher. “With a record number of nominations last year and so many fantastic companies in Cardiff, even making it to the finalists list is a huge achievement. We ensure finalists are 78 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

celebrated within our marketing plans in the run-up to the glamorous event.” There will be a free ‘How to win a Cardiff Life Award’ seminar held on 27 November, designed to help entrants craft the perfect nomination – places for this can be reserved via the Awards website. Winning an Award is highly beneficial for company profile, and serves as great recognition for teams and individuals who go the extra mile for your business. All winners receive coverage in Cardiff Life magazine, as well as a hand-crafted engraved trophy, window stickers to proudly display success, two free places at a special post-Awards winners’ dinner and the longlasting remembrance of a Cardiff Life Awards winning moment. Added Steph: “If your business would like to align itself closely to the prestigious Cardiff

Life Awards, why not consider sponsorship? You’d be in good company!” The Awards are backed by an eight-month marketing campaign, peaking in March. In 2017, the Awards were trending on Twitter, such was the huge interest in them. Sponsors already on board include Cardiff Airport (headline sponsor), Cardiff BID, WSET, Genero, Savills and Chapel 1877. Goji Hair has also been announced as official beauty partner for those wishing to look their best at the prestigious event on 15 March 2018. To align your brand with Cardiff’s most prestigious Awards, and to benefit from our targeted marketing campaign, please get in touch with Mark George (mark.george@ mediaclash.co.uk). For more: cardifflifeawards.co.uk, Twitter: @CardiffLifeAwds

CONFERENCE CALL It’s been confirmed that the UK’s largest dementia research conference – the Alzheimer’s Research UK Conference – is to be held at ICC Wales in March 2020, one of the first conferences to be confirmed at the new venue, where building work began earlier this year. The venue, an £83.7m joint venture between Celtic Manor and the Welsh Government, is set to open its doors in July 2019. Said Ian Edwards, Chief Exec

of ICC Wales: “We’re thrilled to be welcoming the Alzheimer’s Research UK Conference. As a brand new, state of the art convention centre, we’ve positioned ourselves as a key venue for major conferences such as this, and our location, size, flexibility and experienced events team all adds to our high profile in the events industry.” For more: iccwales.com

Cardiff City FC Women, currently flying high in the Welsh Premier Women’s League

RESULT! Cardiff-based Welsh communications firm Orchard Media and Events Group has secured a new deal with the Welsh Premier Women’s League (WPWL). The company, which has a history of working to promote women in sport, has secured sponsorship of the WPWL for the second year running, and will be headline sponsor for the 2017/2018 season. Said Lucy Kelly, WPWL League Secretary: “Women’s football has never been so popular, and Orchard’s increasing portfolio of success with major events over the last number of years means that we are uniquely positioned to keep bolstering support for the sport together.” “As proud supporters of Welsh sport, and a major player in media and events in Wales, we are only too happy to support the development of the women’s game in Wales,” said Orchard’s PR director, Tim Powell. “We enjoy a great relationship with the FAW, and want to play our part in their success.” For more: thinkorchard.com

WHEELY GOOD A primary school in Southern Africa will soon receive a new school bus, thanks to Pentwynbased civil engineering consultants, CD Gray & Associates. The company, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, decided to raise £10,000 towards the cost of providing a new mini-bus for Mabele Primary School in Botswana. Glyncoed Primary School in Pentwyn has also helped with fundraising for the project and filled the bus with gifts for pupils before it started its recent journey to Botswana. CD Gray MD, Chris Gray, who visited the school last October, was moved by the sight of primary school children having to walk up to five miles to and from school each day in searing heat, in dangerous areas frequented by wild animals. “The journey to and from school should be safe for every child, so we wanted to do something practical for Mabele School to mark our company’s 25th birthday,” he said. “Working with Glyncoed Primary, we purchased the bus and filled it with gifts [for Mabele School], including footballs, school equipment and fans to make the classroom temperatures more tolerable.” For more: cdgrayassociates.co.uk

Chris Gray with schoolchildren from Glyncoed Primary, and supplies for Mabele School in Botswana

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BUSINESS INSIDER

One of Adam Elliot’s beautiful, bespoke, Shaker-style kitchens

Dan Langford (Acorn Recruitment) and Fflur Jones (Darwin Gray), cofounders of the Wales HR Awards, with presenter Sian Lloyd

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC THE BIZ Q&A

HR IN FOCUS

ADAM ELLIOT Co-founder STEVEN ELLIOT TUCK tells us what makes the successful Cowbridge-based bespoke kitchen and furniture company tick As a company, you design, make and install bespoke kitchens and furniture – what sort of ranges do you offer? Traditional, modern and everything in between. We make occasional free-standing pieces, too. As a kitchen/furniture business, what sets you apart? As a team, we’re passionate about our craft. Our customer service is unparalleled, and we value our customers greatly – satisfaction is paramount. Customers can be involved in the whole process, if they wish – design and manufacture is all logged on a What’s App group, which is updated weekly. What sort of kitchens are popular/prevalent at the moment? Recently, we’ve been exploring more avantgarde avenues – doors made from stainless steel, worktops in both concrete and brass, and of course the traditional hand-painted Shaker style, which we are best known for.

Steven Elliot Tuck and Peter Adamec, co-founders of Adam Elliot 80 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

What would your dream kitchen look like? It would probably have an Art Deco look, incorporating iconic motifs and traditional and modern techniques. In your industry, what have you found to be the best tools for success? Being completely honest with customers. We don’t offer 30%, 50% or even 75% off sales, but price competitively with those who we perceive to be closest to us in the marketplace. Compared to some of the other luxury brands out there, we think our offering stacks up pretty well. How’s business at the moment? Since Adam Elliot was formed, we have seen year-on year-growth. We’re very happy with how things are progressing, and are looking to consolidate our position as one of the area’s leading bespoke manufacturers. What do you enjoy most about what you do? Pretty much everything – meeting customers for the first time, developing a good working relationship with them, designing furniture. My favourite bit is the actual hands-on production of cabinet-making. As a business, what sort of advantages do Cardiff/Cowbridge offer you? We have an extremely loyal local customer base, and have had lots of ‘word of mouth’ recommendations – a testament to our high levels of customer service. For more: adamelliot.co.uk

Entries are now open for the 2018 Wales HR Awards, celebrating HR excellence throughout the country. Created by specialist recruitment agency, Acorn, and commercial law firm, Darwin Gray, the Awards are the annual flagship event of the Wales HR Network, the country’s leading networking platform for HR professionals. Deadline for entries is 31 January 2018. waleshrnetwork.cymru

MAKING A MARK

Cardiff Metropolitan University has been awarded the Social Enterprise Mark, which proves it is in business to benefit society, community and the environment. It is the first Higher Education Institution (HEI) in Wales to gain this recognition, and one of only ten HEIs across the UK. socialenterprisemark.org.uk, cardiffmet.ac.uk

ON THE MOVE

Savills Cardiff has announced plans to relocate in early November to 2 Kingsway, a Grade A office building in Cardiff city centre, with all 50 staff moving from its existing office at 12 Windsor Place. savills.co.uk

TOP ONE!

Cardiff law firm Clarke Willmott LLP has been named in the prestigious Legal 500 guide, which ranks the UK’s top lawyers and organisations. clarkewillmott.com

St John’s College, Cardiff

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

Top performing secondary school in the UK - 2017 (The Times - A*/ B attainment)

Nursery & Infants

●

Juniors

●

Seniors

●

Sixth Form

Wraparound care - 8am - 6pm - Monday to Friday

Please contact Admissions to arrange a visit: www.stjohnscollegecardiff.com | 02920 778936 | @SJCCardiff Charity No. 701294

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

PENN ONN Located in St. Brides-super-Ely, this unique, architect-designed property is the epitome of modern luxury By K AT I E K I SSOON

82 112I I CARDIFF CLIFTONLIFE LIFE I I www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

www.mediaclash.co.ukI I CLIFTON CARDIFFLIFE LIFE I I 113 83 www.mediaclash.co.uk

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

ere at Cardiff Life, we see lots of impressive properties, but there are those rare moments when a really special one comes along to make our hearts beat just that tiny bit faster. Penn-Onn, in all its aesthetically-pleasing magnificence, definitely falls into that category. Designed by awardwinning local architect Chris Loyn, it’s a glorious amalgam of visionary architectural genius, beautiful construction and über-modern fittings. Situated in the hamlet of St Brides-super-Ely, near Peterston-super-Ely, in the Vale of Glamorgan – in a spectacular and private rural location, with far-ranging views of the lovely surrounding greenery (of which there is plenty) – the house is reached by a sweeping driveway with an electronic access gate, leading onto a large forecourt area with extensive parking. Behind that distinctive exterior lies a thoughtfullyconsidered, contemporary and exceptional family home. Incorporating the highest quality fittings and fixtures, Penn Onn manages to be both luxurious and energy-efficient, offering spacious, open-plan family accommodation arranged over three levels; floor-toceiling windows allow lots of natural light to flood in and command truly enviable views. On the ground floor, there are living rooms at either end of the property, to either side of a hallway; a modern kitchen/breakfast room with appliances to match; and a generously-sized dining room, for entertaining all those weekend visitors who will invariably invite themselves over for a good nose. An additional sitting room, between the ground floor living areas and the first floor bedrooms, also has access to its own private patio. Upstairs, you’ll find four double bedrooms, all with fitted wardrobes. The master bedroom suite has its own dressing room and en-suite, and there’s a second/guest 84 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Penn Onn’s visionary architecture makes for cutting edge 21st century living

HOUSE NUMBERS Penn Onn, St. Brides-super-Ely, Vale of Glamorgan

double bedrooms

reception rooms

kitchen/breakfast room

extensive gardens

£1.395M guide price

bedroom (also with en-suite) with balcony area, while the remaining bedrooms – one of which is currently used as a dressing room – both share a shower room. It doesn’t end there – up on the second floor is another living room, perfect for escaping the clan with your box-set of choice. Currently used as a study and work space, it has access to a large balcony with far-reaching views across the grounds – almost an acre’s worth – and the surrounding farmland. Speaking of grounds – the extensive gardens and sprawling lawns are beautifully maintained, with mature and youthful trees, private paved seating areas, balconies, terraces and courtyard areas. There’s also a double garage which links back into the main family home. Essentially, it all boils down to sleek, cutting edge, 21st-century living, the sort of outside-the-box ‘grand design’ that would surely have Kevin McCloud purring. For more info, contact Watts & Morgan, 55 High Street, Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7AE; Tel: 01446 773500, wattsandmorgan.co.uk

Reach the best in the west Aﬄuent, active and inﬂuential and just a call away

Cardiff Life team 01225 475800

The Coppins Lisvane A superior detached double fronted five bedroom family residence, occupying a fine position fronting a quiet and select close with the special benefit of a large and private corner garden. Built circa 1965 and extended circa 1980 this truly capacious well-designed modern home offers versatile living space, beautifully improved in recent years by the current owners. Within a short walking distance is Lisvane primary school, whilst Lisvane Village with its historic church (St Denys), a local general store and The Griffin public house and restaurant are also a short distance away. A little further are the extensive amenities of Llanishen Village and Thornhill, whilst two railways stations connecting with Cardiff City centre are close by. This outstanding home includes stylish PVC double glazed windows and outer doors, panelled oak contemporary doors, porcelain tiled floors, an intruder alarm, and a bespoke fully fitted 32 FT kitchen and breakfast room installed by Keller kitchens in 2010 with integrated Neff appliances and solid granite work surfaces. Further improvements include two stylish and contemporary bathrooms, one ensuite to the generous master bedroom (16’4 x 15’7), the family bathroom installed in 2012. The master bedroom includes quality stylish fitted wardrobes and white PVC double glazed French doors which open onto a Juliet balcony and enjoy wonderful views across the large private gardens and extend towards distant hill side! A lovely view to wake up to! The extensive ground floor living space also includes a central hall with stylish downstairs cloak room, a 31 FT kitchen & breakfast room, a 14 FT utility room, a 21 FT lounge equipped with solid oak floors and inset with a handsome Minster fireplace with marble hearth and surround, inset with a living flame coal effect gas fire, a 17 FT dining room and a separate sitting room (16’2 x 13’9) inset with a further contemporary stone fireplace and a square bay window, and a further first floor study which enjoys relaxing views across the stunning rear gardens. Further features include gas heating with panel radiators, a large block paved private entrance drive with space for several cars, an attached garage (18’9 x 12’2) equipped with fob operated electric doors and boasting a versatile first floor hobbies room. The well manicured rear gardens are a very special and unique feature of this substantial house, level and enjoying a high degree of privacy by natural screens of high hedgerow and a thick screen of conifer trees. Useful outbuildings include a detached cabin/summerhouse, a separate work shop/hobbies room, and an enclosed and under cover side store room. There is also a very private area within the garden which currently houses a hot tub! This truly impressive five bedroom residence enjoys a lovely position within a quiet and well establish part of highly popular and well sought after Lisvane. Must be seen!

For sale with PA Black Llanishen Branch 02920618552

£849,950

Pendwyallt Road, Whitchurch A most impressive and distinctive detached bay fronted six bedroom family residence, built circa 1988 for the current owners, set back with a wide and private frontage drive with secluded gardens on both sides, and approached from Pendwyallt Road by double gates leading to the main residence and the detached double garage. This unique and most spacious family home benefits hardwood effect PVC double glazed windows, gas heating with panel radiators, hardwood panelled doors with distinctive finger plates and handles, ornate coved and panelled ceilings, and a very impressive 25 ft long entrance reception hall approached via an open fronted porch, and inset with a hardwood spindle balustrade returning staircase with full height picture window leading to a gallery landing. Built to a high specification in the late 1980’s this versatile and magnificent home enjoys considerable privacy by means of natural screens of conifer trees and boundary walls along three sides, with the special benefits of a long block paved main drive providing turning space and parking space for several vehicles, a south facing courtyard garden to the rear of the property, useable lawned side gardens that border the main drive and a further courtyard garden located to the side and behind the main detached double garage. The ground floor well-designed living space also includes a downstairs cloakroom, a 19 ft lounge with ornate fireplace, a 15’ 7” bay fronted sitting room, a 14’ 7” formal dining room, a 12’ 8” PVC sun lounge conservatory and a 20’ 10” open plan kitchen and breakfast room. The first floor comprises four large double size bedrooms - two with distinctive bay windows, two full bathrooms with French two tone coloured suites, one being the ensuite to the master bedroom, and a further versatile first floor study which equipped with a single flight staircase leading to the second floor landing with access to two further double size bedrooms, one with an ensuite cloakroom. The property stands a distinctive plot, tree lined, and well placed within minutes driving distance to an exit onto the M4 providing fast travel to Swansea, Newport and Bristol. The property lies within the highly sought after Whitchurch High School catchment, and within a short distance is the ever popular Whitchurch Village centre with its host of extensive amenities.

For sale with PA Black Whitchurch Branch 02920 612328

£825,000

PHOTO BY CHRISTIAN AMODEO

Q&A

CARDIFF LIVES

How is the city flourishing? One way is this rush of high-rise, student accommodation and tall buildings, which are happening all over the place. I have never known it like this. It’s a mirror reflection of previous booms here, going way back before the industrial revolution, although back then they obviously happened on a smaller scale.

PETER FINCH The pre-eminent local author, poet and historian tells CHRISTIAN AMODEO about his beloved Roath, ‘real’ Cardiff and embracing change

n literary terms, poet and writer Peter Finch is something of a local legend. Formerly chief exec of Literature Wales, he’s written countless acclaimed poetry books, the Real Cardiff series – alternative and highly entertaining guides to his native city – and also The Roots Of Rock, tracing music all the way from Cardiff to Mississippi and back again, amongst many other things. We catch up with him over a cuppa... Where’s home in Cardiff, and why is it special? Roath. It’s special because I know it intimately. I suppose the rival in Cardiff has always been Roath versus Canton – which side are you on? Canton traditionally had the bohemian edge, if you like; Roath was far more regulated and had fewer pubs. There was a magic moment when I discovered that actually Roath could well have been the original name for Cardiff. When you track that history down, it bears repetition and I’m not the only person to discover this. I thought, “Bloody hell, I come from the real Cardiff.” Roath has become the new place to be, the bright part of the city. Where did you grow up? In Roath. There’s a problem with this – that I live in the area where I grew up. I walk past the sites of many memories, and they lose their power. If you keep going past the spot where something occurred as a child, eventually the

magic fades. There are some places, I suppose, where that doesn’t happen because the place itself has magic. I lived in Canton (my mother called it Victoria Park) for a time. When I go back to the west side of the city to those places of my childhood, there’s a vibrancy to them, because I don’t visit often. What are your favourite Cardiff places? I wish Bentley’s was still here, which was of course Ferrari’s before – that was our nearby equivalent of a greasy spoon caff, and it leaves the city with precious few of those. I love the shape of the Altolusso building. The way they kept the old façade and built the unconventional, curved tower. I like the fact that it’s next to the railway and the feeder canal, which is almost an obsession of mine – walking along the feeder from Blackweir down, seeing where it vanishes, and finding it again. What are you working on right now? I’ve just finished – though I use that word with caution because I’ll have to go back to it – a book called Real Cardiff: The Flourishing City, which will come out next year. I’ll do more work on it because I have to go round again before it goes to press to check on the ‘flourishing’, because things flourish all the bloody time. You write about something and when you go back it’s totally transformed. I’ve done a long walk with a couple of friends from Death Junction in Roath right up to Caerphilly Mountain, via what green is left.

You’ve also been commissioned to write a book about walking in Cardiff. Tell us more... I’m doing it with John Briggs, famous photographer of old Cardiff. These 20 or so walks are not going to be your conventional routes – I don’t see the point of going to the tourist sites that everybody goes to. What’s one of the more unusual local discoveries you’ve made? In the first Real Cardiff book, I went hunting for the lost holy wells of the east of the city. One of them, which was supposed to have healing properties, turned out to be in the back garden of the kebab shop on Albany Road. Do you feel under pressure to keep up with a changing Cardiff? The changes these days are so rapid. You really have to keep your wits about you. What I’ve discovered about the city is that every time I think, “That’s it”, it isn’t. There’s always something else that I haven’t delved into or considered. It seems to me that the Cardiff has reached that size where this will never cease. There’s always going to be something flourishing and new or previously undiscovered to be found. Cardiff is also growing outward. Do you welcome that? I welcome it completely. I recognise that this is what happens with cities – they get bigger. Lifeblood is change, not staying the same. Development means energy, commerce, people, excitement and everything else that makes life worth living. Change is not only inevitable but it can be exciting and life-affirming. It’s also a precious thing. I recall long periods when we did not have that. Cardiff has to grow. I was giving a talk once and I described the city as small enough to know but large enough to get lost in. I said, “You can have an affair here and not get found out.” And someone at the back shouted out, “No, you’re wrong!” w www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 89

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Q&A

A burst of blossom in Roath, Peter’s stomping ground (photo by Esme Charles)

Is Cardiff mindful or protective enough of its past? I think what we do wrong in Cardiff is we don’t bother to record anything. We don’t bother to keep good examples of things. We don’t bother to give out good information. In the new districts, whether it’s Llanedeyrn, Pentwyn or the newer Pontprennau, all of which were built on farm and woodland, there’s nothing there that points back to the past. Nothing has been kept. There’s a perception perhaps that because Cardiff is mostly quite new, there’s no history here... That’s what motivated me to write in the first place. There are ancient cities in Britain like Edinburgh, Bath or London, which have got long, complicated, involved histories – but there was a notion that Cardiff had nothing. I went to Pembrokeshire and visited some of its many standing stones, burial chambers and cromlechs, which are immeasurably ancient. I wondered why we didn’t have any of these in Cardiff, too. So I went looking, both for a pre-historical past and to answer the question, ‘Why haven’t we got things like London?’. What I discovered was, we do. How should we bring local history to life? I would provide a lot more markers and memorials – plaques are easy, cheap, unobtrusive ways of celebrating people and places. I went to Barnsley – it has signs everywhere for just about everything. There is nothing to mark the two great music venues of Cardiff: The Capitol and Sophia Gardens Pavilion, where The Beatles and countless famous acts played. Both gone, and there’s nothing there. Yet those are significant places. If this were America, we’d have a Tom Jones Hall of Fame, but we have nothing of that nature here. How do you relax? Cinema. I get upset if I don’t go to the cinema once a week. You can get totally consumed by a film – all your senses go towards the big screen. We’ve got much better at cinema over the decades. What’s your proudest moment? My daughter getting married – we lived just around the corner from the church, St Margaret’s, so we went this short distance in a car and all the neighbours came out to watch. Some of them were even sitting on chairs that they’d put in their front gardens.

Most embarrassing moment? Initially, I got a reputation as a poet and there were two sides to the poetry – more conventional stage performance with jokes, and more avantgarde stuff. In Islington, I got it wrong and instead of performing the avant-garde material, I did the jokes. The avant-garde coterie did not appreciate it. That was quite a difficult evening. How has the poetry scene changed in Cardiff over the years? There’s much, much more of it. When I began, there wasn’t much, whereas now you can literally find any night of the week some platform or space where poetry is being presented. And poetry has found a much larger audience because it mixes in with all kinds of other things. I came down Queen Street a week ago and there was a guy chalking his poems onto the paving slabs. The exciting thing about poetry is not so much that anyone can do it, but you can do anything with it.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learnt in life? Listening [properly]. So many people don’t listen. And even when you do listen, you mishear. I have found myself down the years missing the point because I haven’t listened, because I’ve been too self-absorbed and thinking I was so clever I didn’t need to listen. Listen to what someone is saying, and give them the space to say it rather than drowning them out. Tell us a little-known fact about yourself... My mother gave me a middle name – that I won’t admit to – when I was christened, aged six. I remember it taking place and this name being imposed on me, which I hated. She liked it because it sounded like a girl’s name and she had originally wanted a daughter. As soon as I conceivably could, I removed it from the record totally.

Fantasy dinner party guests? Novelists Howard Spring and Jack Kerouac. Kerouac showed how you could live without constraints – that it was possible to take all the exciting things life had to offer and roll with them. Spring, who wrote The Spur, was born in Canton. He knew old Cardiff at the end of the 19th century. For more: peterfinch.co.uk

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