Exeter Living – issue 202

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Homes ISSUE 202 / DECEMBER 2016 / £3

EXETER & BEYOND

ISSUE 202 / DECEMBER 2016 / WRAPPERS’ DELIGHT

FESTIVE THEATRE: GOT YOUR TICKETS YET?

AND

/ TAG S - O N / C I T Y VS C O U N T RY / C O - B I K ES

TASTY NEW CHRISTMAS LUNCH RECIPES!

BUT WE’RE SO GLAD YOU DID...

OUR 100% LOCAL, INDEPENDENT CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

EXIT THROUGH THE GIFT SHOP: RAMM’S NEW BABY

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 202 / DECEMBER 2016

25

PRESENT AND CORRECT Christmas gifts for all budgets, ages and preferences, all from your local, independent shops and makers

WRAP BATTLE Do you relish Christmas shopping, dedicating hours of thought and legwork into finding unique, personal gifts for your favourite people? Or do you avoid it and end up panicbuying Maltesers and Blossom Hill in the corner shop on Christmas Eve? Either way, here’s some good news: put yourself in the hands of Exeter and East Devon’s many independent traders and artisans and you’ll find something special for everyone on your present list (yes, even that fussy, non-reading, musically-indifferent, kitchen-phobic, allergic-to-everything sisterin-law). Our Christmas gift guide, starting on page 25, is crammed with gorgeous ideas to get you started. It’ll be fun! Honestly!

We’re also serving up recipes for the ultimate Christmas Day feast at home, courtesy of Exeter Golf & Country Club. We’ve sampled them and, trust us, you and your guests are in for a treat.

And don’t forget that nominations are now open for the unmissable Exeter Living Awards 2017 (exeterlivingawards.co.uk), celebrating the very best of the city – see inside the mag for more on that. Good luck, everyone!

Have an exquisite Advent, and we’ll see you again in three weeks. When we sincerely hope to find you sporting a Santa hat, elbow-deep in a panettone, and denying for the umpteenth time that you secretly love Michael Bublé ...

Anna Britten, Editor Follow us on Twitter: @ExeterLiving

Bang & Olufsen of Exeter 30/31 Gandy Street | EX4 3LS 01392 424600 | exeter@bang-olufsen.co.uk Wires Removed. Inspiration Added.

Experience Beoplay H5 in store.

CONTENTS / ISSUE 202 / DECEMBER 2016 M EET T H E T EAM

UPFRONT

Editor Anna Britten anna.britten@mediaclash.co.uk

8 Spotlight

It’s Chriiiistmaaaas! Plus: Where Am I?, Extagram and more

Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Editor’s photo Emma Solley Contributors Tess Read, Kitty Kane, Roxanne Duris, Chris Bentley

15 Tess Read

Our new columnist is making a list, she’s checking it twice...

19 My Desk

Advertising manager Joss Phillips joss.phillips@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Paula Miller paula.miller@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Jason Coward jason.coward@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Steve Hawkins steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk

We snoop around Adam ‘Rokk Media’ Stone’s workspace

SHOPPING 25 Christmas Gift Guide You’ve got the wrapping paper, the sellotape, the gift tags – now here’s your inspiration!

46 Special Shops

58

RAMM have just opened a museum gift shop with a difference

ARTS 51 Arts Intro Utagawa Hiroshige at RAMM: this winter’s must-see exhibition

52 What’s On Your stick-it-to-the-fridge guide to the biggest events of the month

HEALTH & BEAUT Y

REGUL ARS

88 Electric Exeter

80 Seen!

Book without delay for the twinkliest, fuzziest, downright loveliest Christmas theatre in town

Why electric cycle hire scheme Co-Bikes is making our hearts race

Five pages of pics from parties large and small – were you there?

66 Restaurant We tuck in at Exeter’s new supervenue, The Terrace

73 Christmas Lunch: The Reboot Are you so over turkey and figgy pudding? Try these three delicious recipes from Exeter Golf & Country Club instead

114 Exeter Lives

BUSINESS 99 Business Insider What are Exeter’s ‘technology incubators’? Plus Lympstone Manor news and more. . .

PROPERT Y 102 Country vs City The most bucolically-named cottage ever, or a brand new loft apartment on the Quay?

73

102

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Exeter Living, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

58 Take A Seat

FOOD & DRINK

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

Photographer Adam Oseland

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

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

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

On the cover Exeter’s Erin Cox designed and made these jawdropping earrings. Find them and more amazing, contemporary pieces in her Castle Street shop or at erincox.co.uk

Visit us in store at: 11 Marsh Barton Road, Marsh Barton, Exeter EX2 8NU. sales@stonemanandbowker.co.uk

01392 279231 www.stonemanandbowker.co.uk

by

WHAT’S MAKING THE NEWS IN EXETER

Street food turns Christmassy at The Very Festive Christmas Market; (right) you’ll find real trees and real reindeer at Cotley Farm

EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT…

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING!

Shop, eat and drink, and be entertained right here in Exeter as the countdown to the big day begins It’s not actually about the 25th, is it, if we’re completely honest? The best bit of Christmas is definitely the build-up. The twinkling lights, the giddy children, the work party, the trips to friends and family, the shopping, eating, drinking, music and theatre, and general dogged pursuit of the festive spirit.

Everything, quite simply, is more fun.

Take shopping. A far cry from the usual Saturday trawl around the supermarket, Christmas shopping propels you to such gemütlich settings as Exeter Christmas Market on Cathedral Green until 18 Dec and Exeter City Council’s smaller Christmas Markets in Castle Street (1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 11, 8 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 and 21 December) and Fore Street (3, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 20 and 21 December). Trading times are 9am-5pm except on Thursdays when they’re open until 9pm and Sundays when they operate from 10am until 4pm.

You can even do all of your festive retail splurges after dark, for extra atmosphere.

Here’s our suggested late-night shopping itinerary: Sidmouth on 2 December, Magdalen Road on 3 December, Darts Farm’s Festive Indulgence Evening on 7 December, then winding up in charming Chagford on 13 December.

Hungry work, pounding those pavements,

so make sure you veer off to refuel at The Very Festive Christmas Market in Southernhay Gardens – speciality and festive street food and drinks from across the South West, courtesy of the wonderful Exeter Street Food. It’s happening 2-3 and 8-10 December, from 11-8pm and there’s everything from macarons to German sausage and – but, of course – mulled wine. Undercover seating, crafts and live music, too.

And finally, take the weight off and allow Christmas concerts/shows to bring a tear to your eye – we’ve got a round-up of the best in and around the city, from page 58.

Ahh, it’s a wonderful life. . .

This issue: Topsham papercut artists/ stationers Rhombus & Pineapple: instagram.com/rhombusandpineapple 2nd day of my new job I come in to find the @ rhombusandpineapple team have masking taped the contents on my desk to ceiling!! #livid

Want to get Exeter applauding just for you?

AWARDS

12 TOP TIPS FOR WINNING AN EXETER LIVING AWARD 1. Take time on your nomination Please don’t sell your company short by leaving it to the last day. There will have been ample time between the nominations opening and the closing date to marshal your most effective case.

Don’t worry Oscar, it’s nearly the weekend. #fridayfeeling

Is that paper cut letters on a Christmas tree?

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

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

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

4. Make sure you qualify Winners need to be based in the Exeter area.

There’s not a precise geographical definition (no tape measures here!). But if you’re close enough and much of your business is here, then you’ll be in. If in doubt – ask us!

Monday morning motivation! #mondaymotivation #topsham

The elves have well and truly moved in and have started some serious Christmas making

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Enjoy the nomination process!

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

12. Keep 6 April clear!

Just imagine how great it would feel to win an Exeter Living Award…

For more: exeterlivingawards.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 9

SPOTLIGHT

Graciela, Ian and Gary

FOOD & DRINK

Daniel being everso-slightly upstaged

by Gerald. . .

MUSIC

ANIMAL JAM Exeter-based, ’60s-inspired guitar-pop combo The Loft Club have recorded a pop video at RAMM. Shot to accompany the title track of their just-released debut EP Heart’s Desire (Lightyear/Caroline/Universal Music), the video sees the band performing amongst the curios of the landmark Exeter museum.

Explains Daniel Schamroth, lead singer: “Our director Alice Deuchar chose the venue as it’s such an iconic venue in Exeter and provided a visual

feast, perfectly fitting our video concept.

The staff at RAMM very kindly allowed us to use the museum exclusively for the shoot and we are all really pleased with the results. We are the first band that has been allowed access to film in the museum so it’s a bit of an honour. I hate to admit it, but Gerald the giraffe stole the show!”

The Loft Club’s debut album is due for release in 2017.

Watch the video here: bit.ly/2fo7HMY For more: facebook.com/theloftclubband

LET THE BELLS RING OUT Ask anyone from round here to name their favourite country gastropub and there’s an excellent chance they’ll say the Five Bells Inn in Clyst Hydon.

Saved from threatened conversion into housing in 2013 – by Paul Parnell and Chris Charles, who are also behind the award-winning The Jack in the Green nearby – the Michelin-rated, Grade II-listed 16th century hotspot is now beginning a new chapter under the ownership of Gary and Graciela Tubb, who have previously helmed the popular Puffing Billy in Exton and The White Hart Hotel in Moretonhampstead.

Says Gary: “Our aim is to make this the best village pub in the UK, as well as an integral part of the local community and beyond.”

Regulars will be pleased to hear that the existing staff, including fantastic, former Gidleigh Park head chef Ian Webber, remain.

For more: fivebells.uk.com

over-boiled a pan of water, I want to throw them down the deepest tunnel.

SEVEN DEADLY SINS The character SPROUT from the Bike Shed Theatre’s festive show Beneath The Blizzard bares his/her wicked soul...

LUST: Who or what do you find yourself lusting after today?

The Snowmen. Everybody is scared of them, but at least they’re free – above ground, amongst the Blizzard. Down here in the bunker, we live like rats.

GREED: What should you be cutting down on (non-food and drink!)

Power. We work all day, every day to generate power for the bunker. They even use the toilet waste. So when I see someone has left a machine running, or

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GLUTTONY: What one thing could you happily eat or drink until you burst?

Potatoes. Our spuds are a great source of pride to us bunker-folk. We haven’t quite cracked fruit, but our underground farms are perfect for root veg.

SLOTH: What should you be really putting your back into right now?

Well, I’ve bunked off my shift on the treadmill to answer these questions...

WRATH: What/who makes you angry?

Rules. The Mayor. The Mayor’s rules. So many of them don’t make any sense...

If I was in charge, we’d spend much less time in the gym and much more time making music!

ENVY: Who are you jealous of?

Everyone who lived in Exeter ‘before’...

Before the blizzard came in 2018 and sent everyone underground.

PRIDE: What’s your proudest achievement?

I can navigate the tunnels down here faster than anyone. And I reckon by Christmas I will have finally trained one of the rats to do a backflip.

Beneath The Blizzard is at the Bike Shed Theatre, Exeter from 8 December – 7 January; bikeshedtheatre.co.uk. See also page 58

Jonathan Dimbleby comes to Gidleigh

MUSIC

OPERA-TUNITY Advance notice, opera lovers! Local hotelier Andrew Brownsword may have been busy tackling the aftermath of the devastating fire that gutted his Royal Clarence Hotel, but he’s still found time to organise an open air opera gala in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, for next June.

Macmillan Gidleigh Opera (MGO) will be held in the grounds of the five-star Gidleigh Park Hotel, also owned by Brownsword, on 17 June 2017.

Featuring young stars from the National Opera Studio, whose alumni includes Barry Banks and Susan Bullock to name but a few, the evening will be introduced by TV/radio presenter and Devon resident Jonathan Dimbleby, and a charity auction of luxury prizes will take place in the interval. With wine and canapés upon arrival, indulgent picnics available to order, and the opportunity to hire private dining tents, limited tickets are bound to sell fast.

MGO are currently seeking sponsors and donations in support of the soloists, fireworks, and staging.

For more: 01647 433771; mgo-event.co.uk

Where am i?

Test your knowledge of Exeter’s hidden corners...

Loving your frilly party dress, stone lady – very Versace AW16.

Who can name this location? See page 114. . .

OPINION

TESS READ

I

CHRISTMAS PAST AND CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Our new columnist has a cunning plan. . .

C

hristmas is a time for fun, food, festivity... but, above all, for forking out. The average family spends over £800 on Christmas and buys more than 30 presents. No wonder we are all exhausted and broke by January!

A few years ago I thought I had the perfect solution to this – I wouldn’t buy things for Christmas, I would make them instead.

Yes, I would single-handedly stage a revolt back to the arts-andcrafts era, back to what Christmas is really all about – giving small gifts of love using my own time and Exeter’s superb Scrapstore.

Teaching the children the joys of home-made paper chains and hand-knitted hats. What could possibly go wrong?

A hundred-weight of poorly glued-together paper chains on the floor later – plus knitted creations which more resembled winning entrants in the competition for the World’s Worst Tea Cosy than hats; plus a houseful of crying children – and I realised a crafty Christmas was not for me. Lack of talent was an insurmountable obstacle.

WAITED

WITH INNOCENT FOR THE OF TO SET IN

EYES LOOK PANIC

So, this year I have come up with a new cunning plan. It is so cunning and dastardly that it has indeed been awarded an Honorary Professorship from a Russell Group University. Or at least, it has been published in a book. Well, my book, but please humour me, listen to the plan.

It was this: I realised that the problem with Christmas shopping was not just the expense of it all, but also the fact that I had to do it all. And I mean all of it! I was choosing, buying, wrapping and posting presents not just for all the members of my family who needed to be sent presents, but also all the members of husband’s family too. No wonder I could hardly function by the big day!

This was how the conversation used to go: Me: “I had a good idea for presents for your sister/brother/ decrepit aunt this year – I thought maybe we could get them x, y, z.”

Husband: “Great idea!”

Me: “OK great, I’ll look into it.”

And that was it – I was saddled with the task, and the expense, of doing it all. Every year!

Not any more. This year I said the following instead: Me: “I thought this year for your sister/brother/decrepit aunt I would get them a nice jar of home-made jam from the school’s Christmas fair – you know, as a present from me. What are you going to get them from you?”

And then I waited with innocent eyes for the look of panic to set into his.

It was genius. A masterstroke! Of course, the result could be that the only Christmas present husband’s sister, brother and decrepit aunt get from our family this year is a jar of home-made jam of uncertain provenance and extremely unreliable quality, but hey, that’s not my problem. Is it?

If, like me, you are artistically challenged, but also one of those people who shares the love, loves to give, and always finds ways to enjoy this special time of year whatever the cost, then I can highly recommend the delights of Exeter’s independents and, of course, the delightful Christmas Market, for the sourcing of great presents for everyone in your family circle. Make merry – it’s Christmas!

Tess Read is an Exeter-based author. Her new book The Contented Little Husband is out now on Michael O’Mara books. Twitter: @TessRead

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QLOCKTWO...

No hands...

No digits...

CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS IN TOPSHAM

PEOPLE

MY DESK ADAM STONE

They don’t come much more Exeter than entrepreneur Adam Stone. Born and raised in the city, the Rokk Media CEO knows everyone and everything worth knowing. When he’s not running the international, award-winning digital agency he started in a garden shed 14 years ago, he’s enjoying family life, cheering on the Chiefs, glued to his games console or acting as a judge for the next Exeter Living Awards. We swooped down on his custom-built Alphington premises to find a spick and span workspace with some very telling items upon it. rokkmedia.co.uk

A good friend of mine, Mike Blakely from Exeter College, gave me that – it’s a tongue-incheek swipe at those cheesy success quote posters

When I was growing up in the ’70s I was passionate about sci-fi.

From Star Trek, which I would watch on a Thursday evening with my dad, to Star Wars which was the spark that led to my lifelong interest in all things tech

When I get an opportunity to roll my sleeves up, it reignites my love for creating for the web and how we can help our clients achieve great things online

Someone has to tighten the door hinges and the broken toilet seats!

Coldplay, of course, is fronted by a famous son of the city and although I know I’ll never reach anything like his level of success, he stands for all that I’m proud of in our great city www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 19

TWINKLE TWINKLE…

TWINKLE TWINKLE… FINE ART, ANTIQUES AND COLLECTORS’ CHRISTMAS AUCTION THURSDAY 26TH NOVEMBER

FINE ART, ANTIQUESFINE ANDART COLLECTORS’ CHRISTMAS AUCTION CHRISTMAS AND ANTIQUES AUCTION TH TO INCLUDE A GOOD8TH PAIR OF DIAMOND EAR STUDS NOVEMBER THURSDAY 26 DECEMBER THURSDAY 2016 COMMENCING AT 10.00 AM

TO INCLUDE A GOOD PAIR OF COMMENCING ATDIAMOND 10.00 AM EAR STUDS VIEWING TIMES: MONDAY 23RD, TUESDAY 24TH, AND WEDNESDAY 25TH NOVEMBER ONLINECOMMENCING BIDDING AVAILABLE the-saleroom.com ATVIA 10.00 AM 9.30 AM – 4.30 PM

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EXETER CARPET COMPANY LTD A world of flooring at your feet

92A Old Tiverton Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 6LQ | Open: Mon - Fri 9.00 - 5, Sat 9.00 - 1.00

01392 493084 | www.exetercarpet.co.uk

XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

‘Esme’ cross-body bag in pewter, £100 Keys, wallet, phone, to-die-for statement handbag. . .

From Rare Pear, Topsham; rarepear.co.uk

BUY, BUY, BABY Baby, buy, buy. . . and keep it local this Christmas with a carefully-chosen gift from one of our inspiring independents. Welcome to the annual, remorselessly chain-free Exeter Living Christmas gift guide w

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‘Vermeer’ dress, £595 Simply stunning silk dress inspired by the Dutch Master From Caroline Charles, Roman Walk, Princesshay, Exeter; carolinecharles.co.uk

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XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

Boeing 737 flight simulator gift voucher, £150 Jet away to the sun – without leaving the ground From Virtual Jet Centre; virtualjetcentre.co.uk

Gefu ‘Spirelli’, £19.99 Dinky, drawer-sized spiraliser; works like a pencil sharpener From The Cooks Shop, The Harlequin Centre, Harlequins, Paul Street, Exeter; thecooksshopexeter.co.uk

Cat cushion, £65 For the feline fan in your life: hand-made and hand-printed on organic linen in Branscombe, East Devon From Artenax, 32 Fore Street, Topsham; artenax.co.uk

Maileg ‘Big sister’ mouse in a box, £19.95 Collect the whole squeaky family (but keep away from the cat) From Leaf Street 53 Magdalen Rd, Exeter; leafstreet.org.uk

TAG Heuer Aquaracer Chrono, £1,700 Certain to make even the smartest dresser walk around with his sleeves rolled up...

From Michael Spiers, 22 Cathedral Yard, Exeter; michaelspiers.co.uk

Swarovski grade Austrian crystal bracelets, £24 each Affordable, tasteful bling for party season and beyond From Toot Garook, 19 Queen Street, Exeter; tootgarook.co.uk

Tegu Pocket Prism, £18.50 Magnetic wooden blocks; fun for fidgets young and old From Maker Maker, 19 Magdalen Road, Exeter; makermaker.co.uk

Katie Loxton ‘Shine Bright’ pouch, £15.99 Should be just about room to hide the chocolate coins in here...

From Caramel, 17-18 The Strand, Exmouth; caramelclothing.co.uk

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XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

Exeter print by Susan Taylor, £14.95 unframed/£26.95 framed.

Every wall in the city needs one of these From Leela, 69 Magdalen Road, Exeter; leela-uk.com

‘British Spirit’ leather belt, £395 The best belt in town: hand-tooled in premium leather, with red, white and blue handstitching From TBM The Belt Makers, 147 Fore Street, Exeter; thebeltmakers.com

Princesshay honey, £1.50 Made by the bees on the shopping centre rooftop; does it get more local and seasonal than that?

From Chandos Deli, Princesshay, Roman Walk, Exeter; chandosdeli.com

Chocolate baubles, £3.50 each/ £6.50 for 2 These would make nice ‘favours’ for your guests on Christmas Day From Chococo, 22 Gandy St, Exeter; chococo.co.uk

BeoSound 1, £995 Portable wireless speaker with 360degree sound, integrated access to Spotify, and other cool features From Bang & Olufsen, 30-31 Gandy Street, Exeter; bang-olufsen.com/exeter

Sapphire ring, £1,847 True blue: a 1.24ct blue sapphire set into an 18ct yellow gold molten ring From Erin Cox Jewellery, 14 Castle St, Exeter; erincox.co.uk

Little Tokyo Bike, £240 Get your shutter finger ready for the moment your little one finds this under the tree From Bikelands, 46 The Strand, Exmouth; bikelands.co.uk

Otter Brewery gift pack, £9.99 Make an ale lover’s day.

Choose from three bottles, or two bottles and an Otter glass From Darts Farm, Topsham; otterbrewery.com 28 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Moomin mugs, £15.95 each Invite Tove Jansson’s dearly-loved children’s book characters into your home From Sapphire Spaces, Dart Business Park, Topsham; sapphirespaces.co.uk

Festive bath melts, £10.95 An excellent incentive to slip away from the post-lunch dishwasher stacking...

Choose from orange/clove/cinnamon or frankincense/orange From Aromatika, 86 Queen Street, Exeter; aromatika.co.uk

Snowdrop vanilla bombes, box of 8 for £10.95 Mouthwatering dainties from Exeter’s only artisan chocolatier From Choccie Bar, 29 Gandy Street, Exeter; chocciebar.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 29

XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

Hammered copper salt and pepper mills, £14.99 each Woe betide anyone who gets greasy fingerprints on these bad boys From Otter Nurseries, Gosford Road, Ottery St Mary; otternurseries.co.uk

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XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

#SWIsBest calendar, £9.99 Stunning shots from social media of the South West, including two of Exeter From southwestisbest.co.uk

‘Caprice’ leather boots, £89 Perfect marriage of sober and sassy, we think From Kathea Boutique, 18 High St, Crediton; katheaboutique.co.uk

Keepsake triangle, £22 Wear your favourite memento around your neck all day From Bassy Loves Betsy @ The Real McCoy, 21 McCoys Arcade, Fore St, Exeter; therealmccoy.co.uk

Nathalie Bond lavender & chamomile body oil, £21.50 Christmas Eve massage, anyone?

From Georgie & Flo, 1 Upper Paul Street, Exeter; georgieandflo.com

Exeter Cookery School gift vouchers, £65 (half day), £70 (evening) or £155 (full day) Treat them to some tuition at the excellent Quayside cooking school From 60a Haven Rd, Quayside, Exeter; exetercookeryschool.co.uk

Mrs Bridges condiment or preserve set, £4.95 Because who doesn’t love a bit of jam and chutney?

From Bernaville Nurseries, 3 Horse Shoes, Exeter; bernaville.co.uk

Metal arrow necklace, £8 Did you know Exeter’s craft emporium does a natty line in ready-made jewellery?

From Bunyip Craft, 111-113 Fore St, Exeter; bunyipbeads.com

Cast iron bottle opener, £7.95 Look out beer, it’s coming to getcha!

From Light & Beloved, 2A Lace Walk, 123 High St, Honiton; lightandbeloved.com

Exmouth bag, £14.95 A must for every proud Exmothian (and we know there’s an army of you) From INC, Bumble and Bee, Exmouth; inc-inc.co.uk

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We adore CHRISTMAS For the most sparkly decorations. luxurious Christmas trees and brilliant lights, visit Otter Nurseries. Each year we love unveiling new designs of lights and the latest colour ranges to make your home sparkle over the festive season. Our Christmas displays are inspirational, giving you plenty of wonderful ideas for your home.

Santa’s magical kingdom

At Otter Nurseries, Ottery St Mary. Santa is in his grotto on various dates from 19th November to 24th December. ÂŁ8.99 per child includes present and magical reindeer food. Visit our website for more information:

www.otternurseries.co.uk/santa-tickets

Otter Nurseries Garden Centre, Gosford Road, Ottery St Mary, Devon EX11 1LZ. Tel: Ottery St Mary 01404 815 815. www.otternurseries.co.uk

XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

Garden spider sculpture by Dean Patman, c50x40cm, £995 Wouldn’t want to find this in the bath...

From Hybrid Gallery, 51 High Street, Honiton; hybrid-devon.co.uk

Franco Sarto black star party shoes, £150 Keep the party sparkle going right to the tips of your toes From Elizabeth Ann, 3 Cathedral Close, Exeter; 01392 252876

Christmas bunting, £8 Perfectly hyggelig, reusable Christmas decorations From Bunyip Craft, 111-113 Fore St, Exeter; bunyipbeads.com

Earrings, £7.50 Zingy fuchsia pink and gold leaf handmade lobe trinkets From Boka, 3 High St, Crediton; boka.org.uk

Funky stag print, £25 Not sure what Rudolph would make of that titfer From Insideout, 1 Bampfylde Lane, Princesshay, Exeter gottohaveit.co.uk

Metal star light, £15 Hang in a window or on a wall and see if any wise men show up From Lark, 48 Fore Street, Topsham; larktopsham.com

Cast iron dog bed with mattress, £995 It’s the very least your best friend deserves, no?

From Naturalmat, Odhams Wharf, Ebford, Exeter; naturalmat.co.uk

The Ultimate Cheesemaking Kit, £36 For people for whom the festive cheeseboard simply is not enough From Millstones, Bickleigh Mill Tiverton; bickleighmill.com

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XMAS SHOPPING GUIDE

Books by Exeter authors, various prices Adult fiction by Virginia Baily, cookery from The Jack In The Green pub, a children’s story by Emma Cox, humour from Tess Read and fantasy from Lucy Hounsom From Blackwells, The Great Hall, University of Exeter, Exeter; bit.ly/2f4lBTp/Crediton Community Bookshop, 100 High Street, Crediton; creditoncommunitybookshop.co.uk/Winstone Books, 10 High Street, Sidmouth; winstonebooks.co.uk/ Quayside Bookshop, 43 Northumberland Place, Teignmouth; bit.ly/2fwI1h3

Scandi Bear kids’ apron, £18 You’re never too young to learn how to make roasties...

From Claire Close; claireclose.co.uk; notonthehighstreet. com/claireclose

‘Annie’ ankle boots, £89 These are just begging for a bracing, Boxing Day walk...

From Chatham UK chatham.co.uk

34 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Miss Milly navy blue resin necklace, £14.50 Glittery glamour for a nice niece?

From Mantis, 28 Gandy Street, Exeter; mantishomedirect.co.uk

Reversible ‘Star’ blanket, £75 Should keep them toasty for the Doctor Who Christmas special From Dotty Home, Market Place, Sidmouth; dottyhome.com

Mont Blanc Heritage Collection ‘Rouge et Noir’ special edition fountain pen, £510 Has anyone got a pen we could borrow for a second, please?

From Michael Spiers, 22 Cathedral Yard, Exeter; michaelspiers.co.uk

‘Josephine’ eau de parfum by Rancé, £84 (50ml), £119 (100ml) Divine floral fragrance created in 1795 for Napoleon’s first lady From Woodforde’s Perfumery, 11 Church St, Sidmouth; woodfordes-perfumery.co.uk

Gift Vouchers available

The perfect gift for foodies this christmas Exeter Cookery School gift Vouchers can be redeemed for half day, one day and evening cookery courses at our beautiful converted warehouse venue on Exeter quayside.

www.exetercookeryschool.co.uk

Your loved one can choose from: - A divine chocolate workshop - Vegetarian cookery - Essential sauces - Pasta making - Bread baking - Advanced desserts - Butchery - French bistro main course cookery - meat mastery - And many more...

For more info: 07843 282371

Elizabeth Ann of Exeter

come to us for the

festive season

Locally handmade cushions and cushion commissions, cards, jewellery and a unique range of gifts for all the family

New stock arriving weekly - Pop in and get your Christmas shopping started early!

10% OFF WHEN YOU SPEND OVER ÂŁ15 - just show this advert in store!

Valid until 10th December 2016

Also at Exeter Christmas market in the Cathedral Green!

Light and Beloved - Home and Gift Shop Unit 12a Lace Walk, Honiton EX14 1LR Call Amy on 07702 42228 or follow us on Social Media.

www.lightandbeloved.com

Sizes 2 (35) to 8 (41) available and various fittings

3 Cathedral Close, Exeter EX1 1EZ Telephone: 01392 252876

Because every woman needs, and feels simply amazing, in the right underwear....

Professional Fitting Service Now Available, in Boudoir, Exeter.

Providing a professional fitting service and advice on a one to one basis for both ladies and young girls from 9 years old upwards who are ready for their first bra. We work by appointment so you don’t feel rushed to find the perfect fit and shape.

We believe it makes a huge difference to your confidence and self esteem to be wearing the right fitting bra - so contact Samantha for your appointment today!

Boudoir, 12 Cherry Tree Close, Exeter EX4 5AT | 07920 443173 | www.leboudoirlingerie.co.uk

Choccie Bar is delighted to welcome Sabine Orchard Macarons, now producing awardwinning macarons on site.

Come and meet her... yum!�

What is Santa bringing you for Christmas?

Up the cobbles of Gandy Street - visit the choccie emporium where the elves are upstairs creating all manner of delights for Santa to bring, and downstairs producing the lightest most delectable macarons from French recipes handed down from generations. Chocolate gifts, chocolate wine, chocolate making courses, chocolate kits - find them here, made by our own fair hands...

Choccie Bar Chocolatiers, 29 Gandy Street, Exeter EX4 3LS | Tel 01392 423003 | www.chocciebar.com

toot garook gifts . clothes . jewellery . lights . homewares

19 Queen Street Exeter EX4 3SH. Tel 01392 201660 E: info@tootgarook.co.uk f facebook.com/tootgarookexeter

10% discount with a valid NUS Card

Chris t mas in

tiverton

for all your christmas shopping and dining this year!

3 hours free parking at nearby superstore.

MOORLAND KITCHENS & TILES LTD KITCHEN DESIGN AND TILE SPECIALISTS Stockists of Emma Bridgewater & Suppliers of Beautiful Kitchens

40 Bampton Street, Tiverton, tel: 01884 252250 www.moorlandkitchens.co.uk

No.39 The Art House Local art, pottery & framing Tivertons Independent health food shop.

Visit us for specialist food and inspirational Christmas gifts.

Unique Christmas Gifts 39 Gold St, Tiverton Tel: 1884 252661 www.no39thearthouse.co.uk www.kirstenelswood.co.uk

18 Bampton Street, Tiverton EX16 6AA. 01884 255310

58 Fore Street, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 6LD. 01884 252655

come and see tiverton’s award winning market (follow us on facebook for more info)

a splash of colour from bristish designers

Come to artenax, Topsham for that original Christmas present you won’t find on the high street beautiful and different from top designers hand blown glasses, elegant candlesticks, handmade painted ceramics, funky tableware, colourful and silver jewellery, fabulous silk, devoré, and lambswool scarves, luxury cushions, mohair throws, contemporary furniture, lampshades to die for, stocking fillers, and more...

prices range from £3-£1,800 so plenty to choose from!

you’ll be supporting independent British designers too.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS from us all!

visit us online: www.artenax.co.uk 32 fore street, topsham tel: 01392 874172 email: info@artenax.co.uk b artenaxdesigns a @artenaxnikki x artenax

Men and women’s clothing.

Surfboards for beginners to expert.

Stockists of: • Billabong and X-Cel wetsuits • Volcom • Rhythm • Protest • Rip Curl

IF YOU BUY A SURFBOARD AND YOU DONT GET ON WITH IT, WE WILL CHANGE IT FOR YOU FREE OF CHARGE ESTABLISHED 26 YEARS Support your local Independents

Saltcity Surf Shop Lower Fore Street, Exeter EX4 3AN • 01392 424015

www.saltcity.co.uk

www.virtualjetcentre.co.uk | 01626 852119 | Just off the A38 at Chudleigh, Newton Abbott

Make your gift the one they talk about with a thrilling, memorable flight experience for individuals, couples or families!

Sele c route t your ow n the v and adm ire iew f cockp rom th it Boein of a mo e tion g 73 simul 7 flight ator.

Come and Browse our new Showroom!

Open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 9am-4.30pm

Find us opposite

DARTS FARM

Come visit us at: 5 Topsham Units, Dart Business Park, EX3 0QH T: 01392 873085 E: sales@dusklighting.com

www.dusklights.co.uk

WHITE STUFF, JACK WILLS ALL SAINTS, HOLLISTER HOBBS, BODEN...

AND MANY MORE BRANDS AVAILABLE IN OUR ONCE LOVED CLOTHING STORE!

Premier Clock, Watch & Barometer Sales, Repairs, Restoration & Jewellery Repairs.

We have a wide selection of Antique & Modern Clocks, Watches & Barometers for sale.

Right Top: English, Art Deco mantel timepiece. Of 8 day duration. Housed in a round oak case, and set upon a chrome base.

HUGE RANGE OF IDEAS FOR CHRISTMAS PRESENTS! FIND US AT EXETER CHRISTMAS MARKET.

WE ARE NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

Leaf Street - Home of Beautiful Things 53 Magdalen Road, Exeter EX2 4TA t: 01392 253307 e: leafstreet@talktalk.net

Above: German 'Winterhalder & Hoffmeier' 'Ting Tang' 1/4 striking clock. Of 8 day duration. Architectural oak case, complete with a compatible oak wall bracket. Circa 1890/1900.

Left: French, Georgian, mechanical timepiece desk/ mantel clock. Of 8 day duration.

Housed in a burr yew & ebonised case. Circa 1820 Left Bottom: French, timepiece carriage clock with an alarm function. Of 8 day duration.

Housed in an ornate brass case, complete with original carrying case. Circa 1900/10

27 Magdalen Road, St Leonards, Exeter, Devon EX2 4TA Tel: 01392 207707. www.primetimeexeter.co.uk Email: cathy@primetimeexeter.co.uk www.timeforremembrance.com

THE SHOP AT RAMM The long-awaited museum shop impresses ANNA BRITTEN with its quality-first attitude Photo s by E M M A SOL L E Y

the

voice of the people has been well and truly heard

46 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SPECIAL SHOPS

Opposite: High quality children’s gifts refer back to the museum’s collections Clockwise from above: the stylish new shop space; mementoes of the insect displays; we would love one of these in our Christmas stocking!

W

ell, the voice of the people has been well and truly heard in 2016, has it not?

Brexit, Trump and now – calm down, it’s an uncontroversial one – the brand new, and rather wonderful gift shop at RAMM. “More and more of the public were saying ‘Where’s the shop, where’s the shop?’” recalls manager Rachel Hone. Because, for a long time, there wasn’t one.

Back in the noughties, prior to closing for its four-year face lift, RAMM did house a retail outlet – a concession run by Judith Durham of Toot Garook across the road. But by the time the museum re-opened in 2011, the received wisdom within the industry was that museum gift shops were commercial loss-makers.

“Various museums were guiding us and said ‘Don’t do it!’,” explains Rachel.

So, apart from a couple of tables bearing catalogues and a few children’s toys, at the Garden Reception entrance, that was it – to the public’s vocal disappointment.

“But time’s moved on,” says Rachel of the museum’s decision to give it a go, “and a lot of museums are now running very successful

SHOPPING

quality gift shops.” When Exeter City Council voted in favour of a new RAMM shop last year, “we took advice from the person who set up the very successful shop in Leeds Museum and she helped put our shop together.”

Just eight weeks into the job – she used to work for Dartmoor National Park’s retail arm – Rachel is rightly proud of the shop’s stock, much of it curated (in the true sense of the word) by the “very creative eye” of the museum’s head of conservation, Alison Hopper Bishop. w

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 47

SHOPPING

SPECIAL SHOPS

Clockwise from above: Vin Jelly’s Exeter cityscape is used across a range of products; carefully curated stock; handmade jewellery

Don’t expect too much in the way of souvenir mugs/pens/badges sporting the RAMM logo (thought there will be a little of that), rather items that are truly unique and long-lasting.

We’re immediately drawn to a range of bags, tea towels and kitchenware covered in a witty, black-and-white Exeter cityscape by artist Vin Jelly. It’s full of allusions that natives will adore: the statue of General Buller’s got a cone on his head; there are peregrines around St. Michael and All Angels church; clouds over the Met Office; a rugby ball at Sandy Park, and so on.

Elsewhere, contemporary glass display cabinets hold exquisite jewellery, ceramics and other hand-made products by local artist-makers. These will change regularly, thoughtfully hand-picked to complement the museum’s exhibitions, either visually or thematically. To accompany this winter’s major Hiroshige exhibition (see page 51), for example, there will be Japanese-style jewellery, raku pottery, tableware and scarves, as well as the usual catalogues, postcards and books.

There are also sections inspired by RAMM’s permanent collections, and general quality gifts for children and adults.

The shop itself is no slouch in the looks department: a graceful, white, high-ceilinged square with an eye-catching counter unit, it is a welcoming space in which to browse.

“We’ve had lovely comments from people,” says Rachel. “It’s been going very well. It would be lovely to have a shop front on the street – obviously people visiting the museum are coming in, but we also want to encourage people to come here just to buy their gifts. The museum is free to enter and they’ll be purchasing something creative, different, quality.”

Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery, Queen St, Exeter; rammuseum.org.uk/visiting-us/shop 48 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

IT IS A WELCOMING SPACE IN WHICH TO

BROWSE

For all your Christmas Party wear THIS SEASON

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from everybody at Care Clean!

For any other enquiries please see our website or phone us.

Tel 01392 218270. Info@carecleanexeter.co.uk

www.carecleanexeter.co.uk

Seasons Greetings from

CREDITON

“A hilarious guide to turning your slovenly spouse into the perfect partner”

Come and visit Crediton for a special Christmas Shopping experience!

3 High Street, EX17 3AE. Tel: 01363 899506 email: 72boka@gmail.com www.boka.org.uk Follow us: ab

GRAPE & GRAIN WINE MERCHANTS 130 HIGH STREET, CREDITON

01363 777719

GRAPEANDGRAIN@BTINTERNET.COM A GREAT RANGE OF FINE WINES, LOCAL BEERS & CIDERS

& SPIRITS FROM

AROUND THE WORLD. EXPERT ADVICE AND FRIENDLY SERVICE

18 High Street, Crediton EX17 3AH. Tel. 01363 776677 www.facebook.com/katheaboutique. www.katheaboutique.co.uk

Treloars

Fine Caterers Delicatessen & Tea Rooms 25 High Street, Crediton, EX17 3AH Tel 01363 772 332 | www.treloars-deli.co.uk

A.J. COX Quality Family Butchers

16 High Street, Crediton, Devon EX17 3AG Tel: 01363 772091 | sales@coxbutchers.co.uk

Nostalgic Sweet Selection & Candimama’s Own Home made crumbly Fudge

49 High Street, Crediton. www.Candimama.com Facebook.com/CandimamaUk

OUT NOW

@TESSREAD #THECONTENTEDLITTLEHUSBAND

Art/craft/music/theatre/more

Clear Weather After Snow at Kameyama, 1833-34, Utagawa Hiroshige I (1797 – 1858).

Colour woodblock print © Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford

SNAPSHOTS OF EXETER’S CULTURAL LIFE

BIG IN JAPAN

Utagawa Hiroshige’s woodblock prints of Japan were sold cheaply in their thousands to 19th century armchair travellers, both in the artist’s homeland and across the West – and have won fans and imitators in artists from Vincent Van Gogh to Julian Opie.

Now, a selection of 21 landscape prints from the series that made Hiroshige’s name – Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido Road – have been selected from the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, for the delectation of Exeter art lovers. Depicting the journey along a main highway between the great cities of Edo and Kyoto, they capture a tranquility and beauty sure to trigger your own wanderlust.

Hiroshige’s Japan: Stations of the Tokaido Road is at RAMM from 29 November – 16 April; rammuseum.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 51

25 November – 25 December

Charity Christmas Tree Festival, until 6 January, Roman Walk; Midge Ure is coming to RAMM on 10 Dec; The Spirit Whistle, Tiverton’s Oak Room, 7-17 Dec

Art UNTIL 4 DECEMBER

KURT JACKSON: REVISITING TURNER’S TOURISM Beautiful paintings by the contemporary British landscape artist (and Glastonbury Festival artist-in-residence), inspired by Romantic painter JMW Turner.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; exeter.gov.uk/ramm

marine life.

Woodhayes Gallery, Luppitt, Honiton; woodhayes.co.uk 29 NOVEMBER-16 APRIL

HIROSHIGE’S JAPAN: STATIONS OF THE TOKAIDO ROAD See page 51.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; exeter.gov.uk/ramm 8 DECEMBER- 8 JANUARY

PRESENT MAKERS 2016 See and shop for unique crafts from designer-makers across the South West.

Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Dowell Street, Honiton; thelmahulbert.com

COMIC ART CLASSICS Screenprints by John Patrick Reynolds that reproduce images from classic comics The Beano, The Dandy etc.

Brook Gallery, 30 Fore Street, Budleigh Salterton; brookgallery.co.uk

26 NOVEMBER-3 DECEMBER

10-11 DECEMBER

UNTIL 24 DECEMBER

VALERIE WALL: THE REALITY OF NATURE Acrylics and watercolour, inspired by botanical and

WONDERWORKS CONTEMPORARY CRAFT FAIR 27 designer-makers from across

52 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

the South West exhibit and sell textiles, children’s clothes, leather and metal work, jewellery, ceramics and more.

Jubilee Hall, Chagford; wonderworkscraft.com

north-west face of the Mirror Wall in Greenland, which he recently became the first to scale.

Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange

17 DECEMBER

29 NOVEMBER- 3 DECEMBER

Theatre, Comedy & Dance

2 DECEMBER-1 JANUARY

LETTERS IN PEACE Watch members of calligraphy group the Exeter Letterers write, paint and illuminate calligraphy projects.

Exeter Guildhall, High Street, Exeter; bit.ly/2fYlVVZ

28 NOVEMBER

LEO HOULDING: REFLECTIONS: THE MIRROR WALL The world-renowned climber tells of his epic ascents, including Everest and the

LIVING WITH THE LIGHTS ON What happens when actor Mark Lockyer meets the devil? This Actors Touring Company is in Exeter prior to a run at no less than The Young Vic in London.

Bike Shed Theatre, Fore Street, Exeter; bikeshedtheatre.co.uk PETER PAN See page 58.

Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; exeternorthcott.co.uk 7-17 DECEMBER

THE SPIRIT WHISTLE See page 58.

W H AT ’ S O N

ARTS

John Patrick Reynolds (and Betty Boop) are at the Brook Gallery, Budleigh Salterton from 8 Dec; Ring by Alex Aurum, at Wonderworks in Chagford, 10-11 Dec

Oak Room, St Peter Street, Tiverton; oakroomtiverton.com/events

Exmouth; ledleisure. co.uk/exmouth-pavilion 14-23 DECEMBER

8 DECEMBER

NISH KUMAR: ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS, UNLESS YOU SHOUT THE WORDS REAL LOUD History, democracy and capitalism eloquently and persuasively interpreted by one of the country’s finest comedians.

Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; exeterphoenix.org.uk 8 DECEMBER-7 JANUARY

BENEATH THE BLIZZARD See page 58.

Bike Shed Theatre, Fore Street, Exeter; bikeshedtheatre.co.uk 10 DECEMBER-1 JANUARY

BEAUTY & THE BEAST See page 58.

Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange 11 DECEMBER

A CHRISTMAS CAROL See page 58.

Exmouth Pavilion, Esplanade,

ACCORDING TO ARTHUR See page 58.

Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Rd, Exeter; barnfieldtheatre.org.uk 18 DECEMBER-3 JANUARY

ERNIE & THE SEA OF ICE See page 58.

Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; exeterphoenix.org.uk 24 DECEMBER-2 JANUARY

THE WIZARD OF OZ See page 58.

Exmouth Pavilion, Esplanade, Exmouth; ledleisure.co.uk/ exmouth-pavilion

Music & Opera 1 DECEMBER

BSO: ROMAN HOLIDAY Italian-themed works by Elgar, Mendelssohn and R Strauss.

The Great Hall, University of Exeter, Streatham Drive, Exeter; bsolive.com

The Exeter two-piece deliver their foot-stomping folk/rock.

Exeter Cathedral, 1 The Cloisters, Exeter; exeter-cathedral.org.uk 2 DECEMBER

THE BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT IN THE WORLD Michael Morpurgo and Virginia McKenna narrate the former’s story about Christmas 1914 in the trenches, in this candlelit carol concert in aid of Farms For City Children. Exeter Cathedral, 1 The Cloisters, Exeter; exeter-cathedral.org.uk 4 DECEMBER

THE DAMNED Return of the original goth punks.

Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; exeterphoenix.org.uk 6 DECEMBER

EXETER SCHOOL CONCERT Christmas favourites, classics and readings by pupils, in aid of the National Trust.

Exeter Cathedral, 1 The Cloisters, Exeter; exeter-cathedral.org.uk 7 DECEMBER

1 DECEMBER

SOUND OF SIRENS

Performed by Exe Singers and the City of Exeter Railway Band.

St Paul’s Church, Starcross; exesingers.org.uk/ exeter-railway-band.co.uk

MUSIC FOR THE CHRISTMAS SEASON

7, 10 & 13 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS WITH THE CATHEDRAL CHOIR Traditional advent concert

by Exeter Cathedral School choristers, joined by professional singers and choral scholars from the University of Exeter.

Exeter Cathedral, 1 The Cloisters, Exeter; exeter-cathedral.org.uk 8-10 DECEMBER

SHOW OF HANDS Top trad folk Topsham duo Steve Knightley and Phil Beer, with double bassist/vocalist Miranda Sykes, bring down the curtain on their UK tour.

Exmouth Pavilion, Esplanade, Exmouth; ledleisure. co.uk/exmouth-pavilion 10 DECEMBER

MIDGE URE: SOMETHING FROM EVERYTHING The affable Brit singersongwriter performs a track w

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 53

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

Hear the angelic voices of Exeter Cathedral School choristers at Exeter Cathedral on 7, 10 & 13 Dec

from each of his albums (from the Ultravox and Visage years to his solo works).

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; exeter.gov.uk/ramm 16 DECEMBER

GLENN TILBROOK The Squeeze frontman brings Exeter an early Xmas gift in the form of his impeccable, wry, catchy songbook.

Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; exeterphoenix.org.uk

Other Events UNTIL 6 JANUARY

CHARITY CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 35 Christmas trees donated by Princesshay and decorated by local charities.

Roman Walk, Princesshay, Exeter; princesshay.co.uk UNTIL 7 JANUARY

WANT MORE? Sign up now for the Exeter Living newsletter

We have a little stocking filler for you, Exeter Living reader. Spoiler alert: it’s our new(ish), Friday email newsletter.

If you haven’t yet signed up, please do, so that I may gently foist upon you my personal choice of the weekend’s best happenings. You’ll also get some moneysaving special offers, the week’s most amusing Exeter-based tweets and a dollop of snoop-able local property. . .

And your data is safe: we won’t share it with third parties!

So if you’d like a friendly distraction

WINTER GARDEN Take a trip out of town to enjoy a magical festive trail through the garden which is illuminated by hi-tech, colour-changing LED lighting.

RHS Rosemoor, Great Torrington; rhs.org.uk/rosemoor

54 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

3 DECEMBER

MAGDALEN ROAD CHRISTMAS FAIR Unmissable festive event in which local traders take over the road, with stallholders from all over the region. 2-6pm.

Magdalen Road, Exeter; stleonards.talktalk.net 3 DECEMBER

WILLOW CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS Make stars, garlands and Christmas trees out of willow.

Suitable for beginners.

Booking essential.

Reed Base, Seaton Wetlands; wildeastdevon.co.uk 7 DECEMBER

DARTS FARM FESTIVE INDULGENCE EVENING Join chef Michael Caines, wine expert Susy ‘Saturday Kitchen’ Atkins and cheese legend Mary Quicke for an evening of food, drink, carols, shopping and more.

Darts Farm, Topsham; dartsfarm.co.uk 8 DECEMBER

TWO SHORT NIGHTS FILM FESTIVAL Fantastic celebration of short film, now in its 15th year.

Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; exeterphoenix.org.uk

RECLAIM THE NIGHT A march promoting awareness of violence and harrassment against women and girls on the streets. Starts 6pm, St Sidwell Community Centre. Bannermaking at Exeter Phoenix on 3 Dec, 10am-2pm. devonrapecrisis.org.uk

2 DECEMBER

10 DECEMBER

1-2 DECEMBER

in your inbox as the weekend beckons, simply sign up here: mediaclash.co.uk/eln

streetfoodexeter.co.uk

SIDMOUTH LATE NIGHT SHOPPING EVENT Enjoy carols, music, mulled wine, mince pies and more, while ticking off items on your Christmas shopping list.

Sidmouth town centre; sidmouthchamber.co.uk

WREATH MAKING Make your own Christmas wreath for your front door, and enjoy mince pies, mulled wine and carols. Book ahead.

Younghayes Centre, Cranbrook; wildeastdevon.co.uk 13 DECEMBER

2-3 & 8-10 DECEMBER

THE VERY FESTIVE CHRISTMAS MARKET Seasonal street food and drink, crafts and music, courtesy of the Exeter Street Food gang.

Southernhay Gardens, Exeter;

CHAGFORD CHRISTMAS LATE NIGHT SHOPPING Hot chestnuts, hog roast, carols, Santa’s grotto and, of course, all those lovely independent shops in ‘the jewel of Dartmoor’.

Chagford; visitchagford.com

adve r tising featu r e T R AV E L

Merry Bristmas!

An exciting, vibrant city at any time of year, Bristol positively dazzles at Christmas.

R

ight in the city centre, the real-ice ice-rink has already opened for the festive season, and it’s joined this year by a new après-ski bar and a giant ferris wheel – the perfect way to get an panoramic overview of the city.

The surrounding Harbourside area looks especially beautiful at the moment, and has restaurants to suit every taste and pocket.

Shoppers can choose between a huge selection of the UK's most popular stores in Bristol's Shopping Quarter, at Broadmead, The Galleries, Quakers Friars and Cabot Circus, along with historic St James Arcade which has an atmosphere and character all of its own.

The traditional German market has also just opened here, offering a magical winter atmosphere for visitors as they explore over 40 wooden chalet-style stalls full of unique gift ideas, from original homemade crafts to food and drink. New for this year is the Jägerbarn bar and beer garden. Especially alluring at evening time, with the smell of mulled wine and pine branches in the air; enough to convert the most reluctant of Scrooges!

There are plenty of smaller markets taking place over Christmas, too – keep an eye on the excellent Visit Bristol website for more details (www.visitbristol.co.uk/whats-on).

If you love to buy unique goods directly from the makers, put the Made in Bristol gift fairs in the diary; these take place undercover in Bristol's Colston Hall (www.colstonhall.org).

The remaining ones are on 26 November, 3 December and 10-11 December.

For a quieter shopping experience away from the crowds, try the rows of gorgeous independent shops up in Clifton Village.

No-one does Christmas more enthusiastically than Clifton – their Christmas tree is famously the biggest in any village in the UK, while the Clifton Suspension Bridge, outlined with twinkling fairy lights on a November and December evening, is a sight to behold.

Stagecoach South West is bringing back its popular Falcon Megadays offer on Mondays in the weeks running up to Christmas. All bookings made in advance via megabus.com for seats on the South West Falcon on 14, 21, 28 November and 5, 12, 19 December will cost just £1 (+50p booking fee) – for which you can get right into the centre of town with no hassles about driving or parking, do your Christmas shopping, and be back home before the cat’s even missed you.

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ARTS

XMAS SHOWS

Laura Prior stars as Peter Pan at Exeter Northcott

TAKE a SEAT From the boy who wouldn’t grow up to an apocalyptic blizzard, Exeter is brimming with fantastic family shows this Christmas and New Year. Here’s ROXANNE DURIS’s round-up – buy your tickets the second you finish reading!

58 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

XMAS SHOWS

ARTS

Catch A Christmas Carol at Exmouth Pavilion

FROM CONVENTIONAL TO CRAZY AND ALL SHADES IN-BETWEEN

S

tudies have proved that people who attend a Christmas show at their local theatre enjoy the festive season on average 47% more than those who don’t. All right – we made that up. But we know in our heart that it’s true.

This year, living as we do in the most theatrically rich city in the South West, we have several, solid-gold options to choose from, from conventional to crazy and all shades inbetween.

Or, hey, why not just grab a seat at all of them?

PETER PAN

Where: Northcott Theatre, Exeter When: 2 December – 1 January What: Emphatically not a panto, here’s another glorious, seasonal, in-house production from the Northcott following last year’s A Christmas Carol. Directed by Paul Jepson, this new stage adaptation of J.M. Barrie’s classic story, for ages 6+, has a great cast inviting audiences to Neverland, including Kerry ‘The Bill’ Peers

playing Captain Hook and Mrs Darling, current Cygnet Theatre students and 20 children from around Devon. In keeping with tradition, the boy who never grew up is played by a female actor (Laura Prior) and Tinkerbell’s a fella (Steve Bennett). We can’t wait!

Tickets: £12-£28; family tickets from £27.

Exeter Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; 01392 493493; exeternorthcott.co.uk

BENEATH THE BLIZZARD

Where: The Bike Shed Theatre, Exeter When: 8 December – 7 January What: Fast forward to the near-future and venture below ground to meet a gang of singing, dancing rogues and rebels living in the cellars beneath Exeter. As snow and ice transforms the city above them, they face a perilous quest…

This new show from award-winning Bristolbased theatre company and folk band Fine Chisel – of whom The Guardian said: “Wistful charm and foot-tapping energy from an engaging company of boundless potential” – is aimed at ages 8+ “and brave adults”. w www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 59

ARTS

XMAS SHOWS

Says Bike Shed director David Lockwood: “The company’s work appeals to those often put off by traditional theatre.”

Tickets: Previews (8-10 Dec) £6. Regular shows: £12 (concs £10); members £10 (concs £8).

Bike Shed Theatre, Fore Street, Exeter; 01392 434169; bikeshedtheatre.co.uk

ERNIE AND THE SEA OF ICE

Where: Exeter Phoenix When: 18 December - 3 January What: Has your little one not yet been to the theatre? Then this new show for ages 5+, from wildly original children’s theatre specialists Quirk Theatre, is an excellent place to start.

An inventive take on Ernest Shackleton’s famous expedition across Antarctica 100 years ago, it promises “derring-do, penguins and Great British spirit” and is their 14th show at this venue, so they must be doing something right.

Tickets: Children £7, adults £10 (concs £7), family (2 adults + 2 children, or 1 adult + 3 children) £27. 23-24 Dec only: Children £8, adults £11 (£8), family £31.

Sun 18 Dec, 2pm: Relaxed performance for audiences including, but not exclusive to, children and adults with an Autistic Spectrum Condition or learning disability.

Thu 22 Dec, 2pm: BSL interpreted performance.

Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; 01392 667080; exeterphoenix.org.uk

BEAUTY & THE BEAST

Where: Exeter Corn Exchange When: 10 December – 1 January What: Quintessential traditional panto experience, with big budget set, nudge-nudgewink-wink gags for mums and dads, pop hits, sing-alongs and slapstick. Best of all? Regular professional panto producers Kickline tend to favour skilled West End performers and homegrown talent over C-list slebs; this year you get Olivier Award-winning Miles Western, of The Pirates of Penzance, and Priscilla Queen of the Desert tours, and local rising stars Laura Porter and Will Trafford.

Tickets: £13-£22.50; family tickets £40-£65.

Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter, EX1 1BW; 01392 665938; exeterpanto.co.uk

THE WIZARD OF OZ

Where: Exmouth Pavilion When: 24 December - 2 January What: Back for a third year, Trio Entertainment present the tale of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Lion with an, ahem, “all-star cast” including: Ken Farrington off Emmerdale and Coronation Street; Lucinda Rhodes from CBBC, Grace Adams-Short off Big Brother 2006, and Britain’s Got Talent’s Steven Hall.

Tickets: £12.50 adults/£10.50 children (£2 commission on the raised seating).

Exmouth Pavilion, Esplanade, Exmouth; 01395 222 477; exmouthpavilion.co.uk 60 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ACCORDING TO ARTHUR

Where: Barnfield Theatre, Exeter When: 14–23 December What: PaddleBoat Theatre Company delivered a most amusing Christmas Chaos at this venue last year, and return with a nationally acclaimed show for ages 3+ about a lonely old man called Arthur whose only friend is the moon. When the clouds cover the sky, Arthur calls upon the audience’s help to find the moon in time for Christmas.

Tickets: Adult £8, under 16s £6, family (2 adults + 2 children) £25.

Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Rd, Exeter; 01392 270891; barnfieldtheatre.org.uk

Above: Quirk Theatre bring their wonderfully silly and exceptionally inventive new production Ernie and The Sea of Ice to the Phoenix this Christmas

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Where: Exmouth Pavilion When: 11 December What: Chapterhouse Theatre Company bring Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim to the seaside, as part of their UK tour of Dickens’ festive morality tale. Nothing to frighten grandma here, as you can expect a traditional vibe, complete with period costume, song, dance and an original musical score.

Tickets: Adult £13.50, children £10.50, family (2 adults + 2 children) £42.

Exmouth Pavilion, Esplanade, Exmouth; 01395 222 477; exmouthpavilion.co.uk

THE SPIRIT WHISTLE

Where: Oak Room, Tiverton When: 7-17 December What: “We have sought to honour the muchloved ghost story by MR James,” says writer and director Matthew Lawrenson of this twist on the classic story Oh, Whistle And I’ll Come To You, My Lad. Expect a skilful combination of spooky puppets, physical comedy and film – and top local acting talent including Sarah White and Philip Kingslan John. Ages 10+.

Tickets: £12 (concs £9).

The Oak Room, St Peter Street, TIverton, EX16 6NU; oakroomtiverton.com/events

DERRING-DO,

PENGUINS AND GREAT BRITISH SPIRIT

XMAS SHOWS

ARTS

The Bike Shed Theatre will be transformed into a secret bunker for foot-stomping Christmas show Beneath the Blizzard

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PIROUETTE Set in the historic west quarter, ‘the house that moved’ is home to our beautiful collection.

We are stockists of maggie sottero, sottero & midgley, rebecca ingram & lou lou bridal, and offer an intimate appointment and bespoke alteration service

01392 432 643 www.pirouettethecollection.com ‘the house that moved’ 24 west street exeter EX1 1BA

Gastro Pub & Speakeasy Cocktail Bar

The oddfellows is a quirky British themed gastro pub with a delicious Speakeasy style cocktail lounge on top.

Locally sourced ethical produce, expertly crafted food and drink, lightly eccentric, eclectic decor and warm, smart service.

Lunch, dinner and epic Sunday roast.

Exeter & Exmouth.

BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEARS EVE DINING!

High Street | Exmouth | EX8 1NP Tel: 01395 27 70 30 exmouth@theoddfellowsbar.co.uk 60 New North Road | Exeter Devon | EX4 4EP Tel: 01392 20 90 50 exeter@theoddfellowsbar.co.uk

www.theoddfellowsbar.co.uk

66 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

The Terrace Big, brash, ambitious – but does it deliver?

ANNA BRITTEN visits Queen Street Dining’s flagship dining destination

M

y old headmaster used to counsel school leavers against becoming a jack-of-all-trades.

Better, he said, to do one thing brilliantly rather than be just OK at many. I thought that was garbage then, still do.

But his words come back to me as I mull over my first visit to The Terrace – because this flagship, Queen Street Dining venue, which opened at the end of September, has set its sights on offering brilliance, and not just OK-ness, across not one but three different (and difficult) offerings: bar, restaurant, and club.

What nutters would even attempt this? There is a whiff of West End hen night package about the very concept.

Yet those nutters are the estimable Joe Hill and Steve Keough – the entrepreneurial local duo behind the city’s much-loved Artigiano and Base & Barley – so if anyone can pull off such an ambitious plan, it’s them.

Appearance-wise, The Terrace has consummately nailed that all-important ‘bright lights big city’, urban brasserie feel. Lots of stylish glass, dark wood, chestnut leather, industrial this and statement that, spread across two-storeys – the first floor a restaurant by day, a club lounge with VIP booths, DJs and dancing by night; and the second floor, also part of the restaurant, incorporating the wraparound rooftop terrace (it’s Exeter’s first rooftop venue) where you can enjoy the view of the Cathedral spires and acoustic music three nights a week. It’s cool.

Indeed, I feel 10% more cool just sitting here. That is, before I gradually realise the tables for two are rather too small to comfortably accommodate a big plate each, two side dishes, wine and water glasses, bottles, and cutlery for each course. And our table wobbles, too. Just as well both my lunch date, S, and I were brought up not to put our elbows on the table. . .

MY PIPERS FARM

VENISON IS SERVED IN TWOINCH THICK SLABS, COOKED TO

PERFECTION

My mood sinks further when a very sweet waiter takes our order without writing it down. Restaurants born in the 2010s love this; punters don’t. (I bet waiters don’t, either).

Things look up on the arrival of the food. The menu – modern European with Devonian twists – goes large on fish and meat, with sections entitled From The Sea and From The Land, alongside brunches, sandwiches and salads. We dive straight into the serious stuff. My Pipers Farm venison is served in two-inch thick slabs, perfectly seasoned, cooked to rosy perfection, it is the taste of autumnal England and some of the most delicious meat I have ever eaten. The crispy kale, beetroot and yoghurt on the side are both superbly-cast supporting actors, and the black quinoa, thought it does not convert me to the quinoa fan club, makes me feel like a good girl. S’s celeriac and walnut tart, with its almost caramelised nuts, crisp pastry and marriage of natural, earthy flavours, is also a huge hit; enhanced by an apple and onion salad that is perhaps slightly lacking in apple. Hats off, then, to chef Jack Alden, recently of Magdalen Chapter and ABode.

Autumn greens – kale, confit onion and pine nuts – arrive in a little cast iron skillet, and are less exciting; and the so-so skin-on fries are warm, rather than hot.

We’d asked the supermodel-esque sommelier for a recommendation, and the Italian Pinot Nero he suggested is spot-on, dark and earthy.

There’s a delightful, defiantly ‘nursery’ flavour to the dessert choices: set buttermilk with blackberries and honeycomb, peanut butter parfait, doughnuts (with filling of the day) all leap out. Sadly, we don’t get to try any: because we move tables to talk to someone, get forgotten by staff, and then have to run to a meeting. Our bad.

We can only imagine the length of the To Do lists when you’re running a place like this. The effort required to excel, from a standing start, in three separate fields of the hospitality industry. In a tough economic climate. As a nightspot, this place is winning many friends, and rightly so. But as a restaurant there’s some screw-tightening to be done. It’ll get there, because it has brains and balls behind it. And when it does, chef Jack is welcome to braise this review in a skillet and force-feed it to me.

DINING DETAILS The Terrace, Unit 19, Higher Market, Guildhall, Queen Street, Exeter EX4 3FB; 01392 793030; theterraceexeter.com Opening hours Mon-Sat: lunch 12noon-4pm (last booking 3.30pm except for Christmas period weekends, when it will be at 3pm); dinner 6-10/10.30pm (last booking 9.15pm); Sun: 12noon-6.30pm Prices Reasonable – starters from £5, mains from £12; desserts from £4 Vegetarian choice Several great options Disabled access Can’t be faulted – wide doors, large lift etc Drinks About 30 reds, 25 whites, copious list of spirits, classic cocktails, and bottled beers, ales and ciders including local names like Otter and Powderkeg Service/atmosphere Staff lovely and eager, but feel undermanaged

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a d vertisi ng fe at u re F o o d & D r i n k

RAFA IS BACK! FORN’s head chef Rafa Sanmacario has assumed the reins once again...

And the future looks YUMMY!

B

ack from his ‘exciting challenges’, the man who so impressed Exeter Living with his tantalising fresh take on tapas is back where he belongs. From the mouth-watering Tuna Tataki to the moorish Monkfish in Serrano Ham (both of which he vows will make a comeback during the course of the year), his dishes take the traditional tapas and give them a swanky, modern twist. FORN has been famous for its creative presentation from the get-go but now, with Rafa back, we anticipate even more culinary delight!

Famous for their Cocktail Masterclasses – run by Exeter’s best mixologist, Babylon Belekas – FORN is to launch Paella

Masterclasses in conjunction with their highly anticipated Outside Terrace Bar (did you know they have Exeter’s most beautiful and aptly-named ‘Secret Garden?’).

The perfect paella, Rafa explains, is all about the stock: “People don’t often consider the importance of the stock when making, well, any rice dish really. Risotto is the same, you have to spend time on a good stock, don’t just use ends of vegetables that are going bad in the fridge or throw in things that don’t belong in there.

Treat the stock like a lady and take your time wooing her!”

The Masterclass calendar gets booked up way in advance, so what are you waiting for? Vamos!

CHRISTMAS IS COMING!

Check out FORN’s Christmas Party Menu online now - www.fornexeter.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 69

C H A R I T Y a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

CHRISTMAS for all Help Exeter Food Bank bring a little festive cheer to every family in need in the city

C

hristmas is just around the corner and, here at Exeter Foodbank, we have long been planning in order to ensure that the people referred to us near Christmastime are well supported.

We could tell you many different stories of the individuals and families who are referred to us with little or no food – you can imagine the additional stress this adds to their Christmas ‘celebrations’ – but one stand out story is of the father who was referred to us at the beginning of last December. He had been made redundant and his application for Job Seekers

Allowance was in the pipeline, but until it came through he had little money to live on and to feed and support his family.

Generously, a number of people had donated Advent Calendars to the Foodbank for us to pass on to families and so we offered this dad a calendar for his six-year-old son. The dad took the calendar and, through tears, told us that he would take out all the chocolates and wrap them as his Christmas gift for his little boy – he was relieved that at least he now knew he had something to give to his son on Christmas Day. This may seem a little extreme but there will be many families this Christmas who, because

of circumstances beyond their control, will struggle to celebrate this family time of the year.

Friends of Exeter Foodbank is a financial donation scheme giving you the opportunity to partner with us to ensure the Foodbank continues to be able to operate and help local people in crisis.

Here are some examples of how your donation will be used:

£10

covers postage costs

per month

Helping us to supply front-line referrers with vouchers & communicate with food donors.

£20

covers the rent of our main distribution centre

per month

Where hungry people come to collect food.

£35

covers phone costs

per month

Enabling us to respond to people in crisis

£40

keeps the petrol tanks in the vans topped up

per month

Equipping us to transport food to where it’s needed

You can sign up and make your contribution by simply visiting our website www.exeterfoodbank.org.uk and click on the DONATE button.

Thank you.

EAT

Christmas menu using the finest local produce

DRINK

A vast range of fantastic ales and wines

RELAX

at

THE THORVERTON ARMS

by our warming real log fire

New Chef - New Menu

Christmas party bookings Lunch £15 | Dinner £20 Menu available on request

Christmas Day Lunch

12.30 for 1.30pm. 4 courses £50 per person. £39 if booked before 5th December with a deposit.

Menu available on request.

New Years Eve

Brampford Speke, just 5 minutes from Exeter Easy to find, hard to leave!

Tel: 01392 841591 • thelazytoad@outlook.com thelazytoadinn.com

Suited and Booted. Champagne and canapes available on arrival. 8pm for 9pm.

--- LIVE MUSIC --5 courses £55 per person. £45 if booked before 15th Dec with a deposit.

Menu available on request For more information please call: 01392 860205

www.thethorvertonarms.co.uk

The Lamb Inn Sandford Crediton

Superb food and luxury rooms in a real pub

CHRISTMAS MENU NOW AVAILABLE FOOD & DRINK DEVON: BEST PUB IN DEVON 2016/17 THE TIMES JULY 2016 “BRITAIN’S 30 BEST SUMMER PUBS” DAILY MAIL AUGUST 2015 “THE 20 BEST BRITISH COUNTRY PUBS” ALASTAIR SAWDAY’S 2014/15 Runner-up: “BEST PUB IN BRITAIN”

From only £17.50 for 2 courses.

The Lamb Inn, Sandford, Crediton, EX17 4LW Tel: 01363 773676 Email: thelambinn@gmail.com

www.lambinnsandford.co.uk

RECIPES

FOOD

LUNCH is served

Fancy something a little different this Christmas? We invited ADAM LITTLE, head chef at Exeter Golf & Country Club, to create a festive menu with a twist for Exeter Living readers Photos by EMMA SOLLEY w

Start as you mean to go on: see overleaf for this splendid first course

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FOOD

RECIPE

STARTER

Beetroot-cured salmon, buckwheat blinis, celeriac remoulade (Serves 4) Ingredients for the remoulade: 1 celeriac 1 lemon 3 tsp wholegrain mustard 2 tbsp mayonnaise 2 tbsp crème fraiche 30g parsley Pinch of salt Method for the remoulade: 1. Peel celeriac, cut into quarters and grate.

Once grated, squeeze the lemon juice over and mix well. Add the salt – this will stop it from oxidising, and help to break down the fibres.

2. Mix the crème fraiche, mayonnaise and mustard in a bowl and add the celeriac. Mix together and add in the chopped parsley.

3. Check seasoning and leave for 20 minutes before serving.

Ingredients for the buckwheat blinis: 100ml whole fat milk 50g buckwheat flour 50g plain flour Pinch of salt

1 egg white 20g butter 50g sour cream 3g yeast Method for the buckwheat blinis: 1. Warm the milk to room temperature and mix in the yeast.

2. In a bowl, mix the flours and salt then add the milk and sour cream. Mix together to make a paste, cover with cling film and leave for 30 minutes.

3. Whisk the egg white into soft peaks, and fold into the paste (don't whisk this in, but use a spatula and fold the whites in until combined). Cover with cling film and leave for 1 1/2 hours, or until double in size.

4. Melt the butter in a non-stick pan on a medium heat. Add spoonfuls of the mix and cook until golden brown each side.

Ingredients for the beetroot-cured salmon: 500g salmon fillet, skin on 150g sugar

150g salt 1 lemon 25g dill stalks 400g grated beetroot 20ml vodka 5g white peppercorns Method for the beetroot-cured salmon: 1. Make three small cuts across the skin of the salmon.

2. In a bowl, mix the sugar, salt, lemon juice, vodka, peppercorns and dill stalks.

3. Lay out two layers of cling film and place on it a quarter of the mix, then the salmon skin, side down, on top. Rub the rest of the mix over the flesh of the salmon.

4. Spread the grated beetroot over the top and carefully wrap tightly with cling film, and leave in the fridge for 24 hours.

5. Wash off the curing mix and slice as thinly as possible. Serve with the blinis and remoulade.

MAIN

Beef Wellington, dauphinoise potatoes, glazed parsnips, bacon and sprout salad with walnut dressing (Serves 4) Ingredients: 800g beef fillet 300g chestnut mushrooms 4 shallots 60g English mustard 500g puff pastry 3 egg yolks Pancake: 2 eggs 1/2 pint milk 200g flour Pinch of salt

74 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Method: 1. Blend the mushrooms in a food processor. Dice the shallots and cook on a low heat. Add the mushrooms and cook on a medium heat. You want the mixture to dry out. Stir every couple of mins.

2. Lightly season the beef and seal in a hot non-stick pan, about 20 seconds each side – the beef should be golden brown all over but not cooked – and then chill it.

3. To make the pancakes, mix the eggs, flour, salt and milk in a bowl and leave to rest in the fridge for 20 minutes.

4. In a non-stick pan, add a teaspoon of butter and a small ladle of the batter. Cook

until golden brown on the bottom and flip over. Repeat, then allow both to cool.

5. Brush the beef with mustard and spread the mushroom mix all over. Roll out the puff pastry and overlap the pancakes on top, place the beef on top of the pancakes and brush the rest of the pastry with egg yolk. Fold the pastry over, and tuck in the ends (with the fold underneath).

6. Brush the pastry with the remaining egg yolk and place in the oven at 200ºC/gas mark 6, for 20 mins. Turn the oven down to 160ºC/gas mark 3, and cook for another 15 minutes.

7. Allow to rest for 15 mins before slicing.

Bacon and sprout salad: 300g sprouts 1 tbsp sherry vinegar 3 tbsp olive oil 200g streaky bacon (cut into lardons) 2 shallots 60g walnuts Method: 1. Trim the ends of the sprouts and separate the leaves.

2. Chop the walnuts or blitz in a food processor.

3. Finely dice the shallots, place into a bowl and add the vinegar, olive oil and walnuts. Season.

4. Heat a thick-based pan, add the bacon, cook until crispy, strain the fat, and add a few tbsps to the walnut dressing. Keep a little back to cook the sprout leaves with.

5. Add some of the bacon fat to the pan, add sprout leaves, cook and stir continuously until bright green. Add the cooked bacon, remove from pan, add to the dressing, mix well and serve.

Glazed parsnips: 1kg parsnips 100g honey 100g butter 50g demerara sugar Method: 1. Peel and cut parsnips into thick wedges.

2. Place in a pan and cover with water, bring to the boil, and strain.

3. In a pan add the sugar, honey and butter.

Stir until combined.

4. Put a little oil into a roasting tray and heat in oven for 5 mins. Add the steamed dried parsnips, season, and return to the oven (180ºC/Gas mark 4) until slightly brown in colour.

5. Pour the honey mixture over and return to the oven until golden brown.

Dauphinoise potatoes Adam recommends making this 24 hours in advance, and then popping it in the oven on the day to reheat.

5 large potatoes (peeled) 2 cloves garlic 1 sprig thyme 1 pint double cream 1/2 pint milk (full fat) Method: 1. Add the milk, cream, garlic and thyme to a pan and bring to the boil. Remove from heat, cover in cling film and leave to infuse for 20 minutes.

2. Slice the potatoes as thinly as possible – so you can see through them!

3. In a ceramic dish, layer them close together, alternating direction. Season each layer and repeat until the tray is full.

4. Cover with greaseproof paper then tin foil and cook for 1 hour at 180ºC/gas mark 4.

5. When cooked, lay a weight on top of the dish and chill until set. Slice and reheat when needed, until golden brown. 

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FOOD

RECIPE

DESSERT

Christmas pudding fritters, brandy cream, cranberry and orange compote (Serves 4) Ingredients for Christmas pudding fritters: 300g Christmas pudding – you can make this yourself or buy one in!

120g self-raising flour 30g sugar 120ml sparkling water Brandy cream: 250ml double cream 30g icing sugar Splash of brandy Cranberry and orange compote: 200g fresh cranberries 150g sugar 1 cinnamon stick 1 orange (zest and juice) 1/2 pint orange juice

76 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Method: 1. Peel the orange and cut the peel as thinly as possible. Squeeze out the juice.

Add it, with the cinnamon, cranberries and sugar, to a thick-based pan, and put on a medium heat until reduced and thick.

Remove the cinnamon and leave to cool.

2. In a bowl, add the double cream, icing sugar and whisk to soft peaks. Add as much brandy as required (!) and place to one side.

3. Crumble the Christmas pudding into a

bowl, then roll into small balls.

4. For the batter, whisk together the flour, sugar and water. Leave for 5 minutes to rest.

5. Dip the pudding balls into the batter and fry at 180ºC. Don't overload the fryer – just do 5-6 at a time.

6. Drain the fritters on kitchen roll, serve with a generous spoonful each of brandy cream and orange compote. exetergcc.co.uk

The freshest seafood in foodie Topsham In the little town with a big foodie reputation, The Galley is a fantastic find for the freshest fish and shellfish, crafted into beautiful dishes, and served with estuary views

www.galleyrestaurant.co.uk 01392 876078

Christmas at L’estuaire

FESTIVE AND CHRISTMAS MENUS NOW AVAILABLE. BOOKING ESSENTIAL.

L’estuaire Bistro and Bar is the perfect place for casual and relaxed dining in Topsham.

We have a lovely outside seating area for fabulous food and drinks!

Open: Tuesday to Saturday, 9.30 till late. Sunday, 10-4pm.

6 The Quay,The Strand Topsham,Exeter EX3 0JB Phone: 01392 876 801 | Email: info@lestuaire.couk

www.lestuaire.co.uk

Were you there?

SEEN!

AC ROS S E X E T ER , O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E Elizabeth Matthews, Geoff Poad, Andrew Moodie, Anne Smith, Andrew Millington, Chris Burns, Pam Poad, Celia Russell and Michael Vizard

STRIKING THE RIGHT NOTE There were hallelujahs all round as Exeter Philharmonic Choir celebrated the start of no less than its 170th season with a rousing Handel’s Messiah at Exeter Cathedral.

VIP guests gathered at the Guildhall for drinks and canapés prior to the evening’s performance.

Photos by Pam Gurney

Henry Yoo, Lucy Fisher and Jim Fisher

Maggie Sheldon (Mayoress West Devon), Cllr John Sheldon (Mayor West Devon), Cllr Peter Smerdon (Chairman of South Hams) and Cllr Cynthia Thompson (Lord Mayor Exeter)

Jane Chalmers, David Amos, Nicola Amos and Robert Pocock

80 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Phil Hudson, Susanne Hudson, Joy Whipps and Alan Whipps

Neil Gardner and Kevin Moran

SOCIETY

(CAT)WALK THIS WAY Exeter-based pre-loved fashion e-tailer Tags-On.com brought glitz, glamour and fizz to their latest bi-annual fashion show series, Catwalk and Cocktails. As well as the great clothes, 56 guests enjoyed cocktails, a pop-up shop, had their locks primped by Richard Beaumont Salon’s stylists, and makeovers by Arbonne consultant, Emma Tellesy.

Stylists from Richard Beaumont Longbrook Salon

Sharon Goble, Jo Bromley and Lyndsay Quincey

Sally Hackney, Pam Chickley, Belinda Shoemaker, Margaret Edmonds and Jane Smith

Alex Bond and Tara Brown

Tracy Halligan and Dana Mulligan

Frances Lewis and Merryn Marsh Natasha and Annalisa Patient

Clara George and Emily Wall

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SOCIETY

DINNER DATE One of the most prestigious private dining clubs in the world – Mosimann’s Club in London’s Belgravia – was the venue for a recent VIP dinner in support of the New Build Appeal for Exeter Deaf Academy, hosted by Mr and Mrs Stephen Edge. High-profile guests included actress Rachel Shenton, and director of the 2012 Paralympics opening ceremony, Jenny Sealey MBE.

Jenny Sealey, Jonathan Farnhill and Stephen Morton

Steven Haberman, Mandy Haberman and Jonathan Farnhill Rachel Shenton and Chris Overton

Jo Milne and Tracey Beaumont

Mel and Steve Edge 82 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SOCIETY

SMART PEOPLE Devon-based writer and onetime Children’s Laureate Michael Morpurgo was guest speaker at Exeter Chamber’s 12th annual Exeter Business Dinner at Sandy Park Conference Centre.

Guests at the black tie event raised over £6,000 for Michael’s charity, Farms for City Children.

Amanda Connick, Amy Laver, Alex Rogers, Charisse Crawford, Rhiannon Cox and Kelly Harking

Wayne Pearce, Hannah Overton and Craig Bulley

Sandra Sampson, Nicci Gratwicke, Phil Sampson, Catherine Hill and Karime Hassan

David Savill, Derek Phillips, Adrian Hills, Cynthia Thompson, Dave Sargent, Michael Morpurgo and David Kirk

Alan Denby and Kate Doodson Tessa Stone, Maureen Phillips and Clare Morpurgo

Hannah Davis, Sara Bond, Sally Moss, Sophie Randle and Kerrie Preston

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SOCIETY

Continued from page 83

Laura McFadyen and Catherine Mathews

Owen Richards and Michael Roberts

Simon Cachia, Paul Russell, Carli Hooton, Emma Matthews and Chris Harris-Deans

Mark Bugler, Lillyanna Aust and Andrew Aust

AN AWFULLY BIG VENTURE Over 150 business representatives rose early to attend a VIP breakfast, sponsored by Michelmores, at Sandy Park, Exeter. The morning gathering was part of Venturefest South West, a flagship event championing the most cutting edge innovation, technology and entrepreneurship in the region.

Feyi Ogunyeye, Jason Williams and David Solomides Richard Cobb and Adrian Dawson

Gerry Shattock, Stuart Brocklehurst and Matthew Elliot

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Tom Torkar, Maureen Gori de Murden and Graham Austin

E H HF EEATAULR T INTERIORS

SPECIAL

Electric EXETER 88 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Get on your bike – the UK’s first on-street, electric bike hire scheme has launched!

A TRAVEL REVOLUTION IS NEEDED; ELECTRIC

BIKES ARE THE CATALYST FOR THIS REVOLUTION

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t’s something else for the city to be proud about: in October, Exeter became the birthplace of an ambitious electric bike hire scheme that is set to revolutionise urban travel. Co-bikes is the brainchild of the team behind Exeter-based Co-cars, the fastest-growing hire-by-the-hour car club in the South West, and already transforming the city.

Managing director, Mark Hodgson says: “Co-bikes are changing the way that people travel around Exeter. We all know that our cities are becoming more congested and spread-out, and a travel revolution is needed to help people more easily, quickly, enjoyably and affordably reach their business, study or leisure destinations.

Electric bikes are the catalyst for this revolution.

“Because of their small footprint, they can easily be docked on the street by transport hubs, business and retail parks, and residential communities – helping people link up other transport options in the way that best suits them.”

The e-bikes are available from on-street docking stations at Exeter Central train station, Exeter University and Digby Park and Ride. There are also docking stations planned for the Civic Centre and County Hall, and by spring 2017 there will be eight in and around the city, with four to eight bikes available at each one.

Riders can hire, ride and drop a bike off at any docking station – much like London’s ‘Boris Bike’ concept except purely with electric bikes.

Like its sister company Co-cars, Co-bikes are hired on a pay-as-you-go basis. Hire a bike on spec, or become a joint member of both

HOW IT’S GOING SO FAR • 66 members (+ 160 registrations pending) • More than 60 unique hires in the first 7 days • 1, 2 & 3-mile rents are the most popular • Co-bikes have been cycled along the estuary from the city to Exmouth and Dawlish • Furthest someone has cycled? 20 miles!

10 REASONS YOU SHOULD HOP ON A CO-BIKE 1. It’s fun 2. It’s easy 3. The power assisted pedalling makes it a doddle!

4. You can whiz up a hill in a jiffy 5. It’s only 75p for half an hour (for members)!

6. You’d be doing your bit to beat the congestion 7. It’s environmentally friendly 8. Discover more of the city we love 9. You can pick up a Co-bike from one hub and leave it at another 10. It’s much faster than walking

organisations for discounts. Prices start from 75p per 30 minutes for members and £1.50 for 30 minutes for non-members. With this unique hiring scheme, a single smart card will give members access to all of the bikes and cars under the Co-bikes/Co-cars umbrella. This is the first one-card membership scheme for car and bike hire in the UK. The initiative is part of Exeter-based not for profit social enterprise co-operative Co-cars and has been launched with support from Department of Transport, Bikeplus, Devon County Council, Great Western Railways, University of Exeter and Exeter City Council.

Says Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council cabinet member for Highway Management: “We’re pleased to have been able to help Co-bikes make this ground-breaking scheme in Exeter a reality. The Co-bikes provide a truly sustainable travel choice that makes it easy to get around the city, and opens up the option of travelling by bike to more people.”

Don’t just take his word for it: ask those who’ve already been converted. Says a user called Susannah: “EXCELLENT! Spent nine years in Exeter and you couldn’t have paid me to cycle up those hills.”

For more: co-cars.co.uk/co-bikes

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Headaches: why do you put up with them?

Having a headache can turn a great day into a miserable one in a few short seconds. From the pervasive tension headache to the more sinister migraine, it’s something you want to get rid of as quickly as possible. And yet many people put up with headaches and migraines for years on end, taking painkillers and just hoping they’ll go away.

I’m here to tell you about another way Painkillers target the pain, never the cause Whenever you feel a headache coming on, do you automatically just reach for the painkillers? We’ve all done it at some point, and it’s what advertising tells us to

do. When in reality if you suffer regularly you’re actually just postponing the problem – or allowing it to worsen. Why not try to treat the cause instead?

Why not come and see me at ROCK Chiropractic Health Centre on Exeter Quayside for an informal, no-obligation chat. Im looking forward to seeing you.

This is where Chiropractic comes in.

Chiropractic addresses the causes of pain, offering pain relief both straight away and in the long term. In the large majority of cases, once you correct the poor posture, spinal misalignment or lack of joint mobility that’s responsible, your pain simply goes away.

I don’t use any drugs or surgery in my Centre, just a combination of precise spinal adjustments, right exercise, good nutrition, education and common sense!

If you want to get rid of headaches for good Call ROCK chiropractic today on 01392 790499

a d vertising feat u re E d u c at i o n

The New School

Independent pre-preparatory school for children aged 3-7 years

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he New School in autumn is quite spectacular. Overlooking a wide, tree-lined avenue, the school is carpeted with golden leaves, a delightful picture as the children chatter and crunch their way along the drive each afternoon, heading for home, their book bag in hand.

‘I love the way the seasons bring such a different flavour to life at school,’ explains Miss Taylor, now in her eleventh year of ownership of one of the only standalone pre-preps in the area. ‘And the children really benefit from having such a beautiful space to explore’ she adds. The children certainly make the most of the freedom and can be found building dens, digging for bugs or even using their scooters around the playground.

‘Our grounds really lend themselves to the development of Forest School and I want the children to explore, investigate and just enjoy being in such a beautiful spot every day’.

Academically, the school continues to go from strength to strength and now boasts stronger links than ever with Exeter School; the vast majority of New School pupils transfer to Exeter in Year Three. Not only are they all offered a place there, but each year some of the children will be awarded one of the few available scholarships, in recognition of their achievements.

‘For me, reading is the key to our success’, explains Miss Taylor. ‘We listen to the children read on a one-to-one basis every day, without fail, and the children are real bookworms’.

“we want them to love every minute of being here” A wide range of clubs, including drama, rugby, football, ballet and now Mandarin, is also part of the weekly diet of activities and the children are encouraged to learn a musical instrument, with piano, guitar and violin available during the school day.

At lunchtimes, a hot meal is available for those who want one and children can join for breakfast from 8.00am and stay until 5.30pm each day.

‘I feel so sorry for parents who dash in to collect their child from late room, only to find that the little one would really rather stay and play with friends’, says Miss Taylor. The atmosphere created is very much a home from

home and the children clearly adore coming to school. The New School motto, ‘Semper Curiosus’ (always be curious) is pronounced in the style of a Harry Potter magic spell and that feels very appropriate for a school which has a hint of Hogwarts about it, with perhaps a little magic in the air.

‘We want to create happy memories for our children and we want them to love every minute of being here’.

Here’s to the next decade at the not-so-new New School.

The New School, The Avenue, Exminster Exeter, EX6 8AT. www.thenewschoolexeter.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 95

Reach the best in the west Auent, active and inuential and just a call away

Jason Coward 01225 475800

a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e L AW

Cartridges Law

The law around Inheritance Tax has undergone significant changes of late – ask the professionals how best to protect your estate

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his month, as part of our series of articles focusing on the work of the Private Client team at Cartridges Law, we would like to explore the issue of Inheritance Tax (IHT).

There have been recent changes to the law around Inheritance Tax and we highly recommend seeking professional advice. This is an area which can seriously affect family wealth, but with careful planning, some of these issues can be avoided.

Every individual has a nil rate band of £325,000, which means that no tax is paid on estates worth less than this sum. Your ‘estate’ is the term for your belongings, including property, assets and savings, which are left after you die.

Any assets which pass to a spouse or civil partner are exempt from inheritance tax – this is known as a spouse exemption. If all assets are passed to a spouse or civil partner using the spouse exemption, upon the second

death there is available what is known as the transferrable nil rate band. This means the spouse or civil partner which is second to pass away will have a nil rate band of £650,000.

There is a further residence nil rate band which is due to be phased in over a four year period beginning in April 2017. If you meet the criteria in relation to the residence nil rate band there is a potential to receiving a further £175,000 nil rate band in relation to the family home.

Any gifts which are made in your lifetime can be considered for IHT unless they were made seven years before you die, in which case they are considered to be Potentially Exempt Transfers – no IHT is payable in relation to these gifts.

In order to be able to deal with the administration of an estate you will need to be either an appointed executor if there is a valid will, or an administrator if there is a valid will with no executors appointed, or in the case where there is no valid will in place at all.

Tel: 01392 256854 Email: enquiries@cartridgeslaw.co.uk Online: www.cartridgeslaw.co.uk

Your Local Investment Team in Exeter Do you feel that: ✔ Once personal advice has somehow become impersonal? ✔ Your investments are not performing as they should be? ✔ Your investment manager is too busy for you these days?

If so, Hawksmoor can help by offering you:

• Personally designed and managed investment portfolios crafted to suit your individual needs and preferences. As they change, so should your portfolio.

• A highly qualified, approachable team of investment managers.

• An award winning service.

For further details contact the Exeter office at Southernhay Gardens, Exeter EX1 1UG. Tel: 01392 410180 Email: info@hawksmoorim.co.uk | Web: www.hawksmoorim.co.uk | a @hawksmoorim Hawksmoor Investment Management Limited is authorised & regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Past performance is not a guide to future performance.

The value of an investment and any income from it can fall as well as rise as a result of market and currency fluctuations. You may not get back the amount you originally invested.

Registered Address: 2nd Floor Stratus House, Emperor Way, Exeter Business Park, Exeter EX1 3QS. Company Number 6307442.

Shake-ups/launches/initiatives/awards

E X E T ER A N D E AS T D E VO N G E T TO WO R K TOP OF THE AGENDA...

TECH BACK THE CITY

Develop your ideas at Fab Lab

As a major report names Exeter as a centre of technology excellence, its key players are getting together to share knowledge

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xeter was recently named in the Tech Nation 2016 report – the most comprehensive analysis of the UK’s digital tech economy to date – as a key cluster location for digital technology growth. Now the city’s tech community is building on its growing reputation by getting together to share ideas, and inspire the younger generation, in an growing number of hubs, or ‘technology incubators’.

These include Data Science Exeter which discusses trends, such as machine learning or big data, and Digital Exeter which organises regular seminars to connect the digital community in Exeter – their inaugural conference ‘Tech Exeter’ was held in October 2016. Meanwhile, Canopy Exeter brings together start-ups, freelancers, and mentors, and The Exeter Initiative for Science and Technology (ExIST) optimises interaction between Exeter businesses in the STEM industries. There’s also Being There, a collaboration between the University of Exeter and five other universities exploring robotics; SETsquared which offers support to high-technology and highgrowth potential ventures; TechExeter which brings together like-minded innovators; and Thrive Hub and The Generator, which offer flexible working space and other benefits. New initiative SW Tech Hub is expected to be up and running by June 2017.

Besides these useful meet-ups, local tech businesses are well supported in other ways. Office space and resources can be sought at Exeter Science Park or the Innovation Centre; Exeter City Council’s Invest In Exeter assists companies in relocating to the city; and open-access workshop Fab Lab at Exeter Library lets entrepreneurs develop prototypes using professional 3D printers. See page 100 for more on its new Business & Intellectual Property (IP) Centre.

Says Rosie Denham, Exeter City Council’s lead councillor for economy and culture: “Exeter’s tech

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

sector is flourishing. We are seeing an increase in tech firms moving to the city, as well as ambitious new start-ups. This is reflected in the continuous creation of tech incubators, offering diverse support and invaluable services to the budding tech industry.

“We were excited to be recognised in the Tech Nation 2016 report. This reflects our buoyant technology economy, incredible community-minded co-operation, and an environment that enables success for our technology residents.”

Data Science Exeter: meetup.com/data-science-exeter Digital Exeter: digitalexeter.uk Canopy Exeter: exetersciencepark.co.uk/news-events ExIST: existexeter.co.uk Being There: being-there.org.uk Setsquared: setsquared.co.uk Tech Exeter: techexeter.uk Thrive: thrive-hubs.com The Generator: the-generator.org Exeter Science Park: exetersciencepark.co.uk Invest In Exeter: investinexeter.co.uk Fab Lab: fablabdevon.org

“I CAN’T WAIT TO WELCOME OLD AND NEW FRIENDS” Whose long-held dream is reaching fruition?

Find out on page 100. . .

500k THE BIG NUMBER

Small businesses helped by the British Library’s IP (Intellectual Property) Centre. Guess what?

Now Exeter has one, too Find out more on page 100

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 99

BUSINESS INSIDER One of the new, Merakidesigned dining rooms

FANTASTIC FOUR Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing or important local business stories right now

PATENTLY OBVIOUS Entrepreneurs and businesses in Exeter can now protect, research and commercialise their ideas with the help of Exeter Library.

The new Business & Intellectual Property (IP) Centre in Exeter Library is one of ten Johnny centres across the UK Winfield and modelled on the successful British Library Business & IP Centre in London, which opened in 2006.

An independent report found only one in ten of the more than 500,000 companies helped by the London Business & IP Centre fails after year three, compared with four in ten across the UK. The Business & IP Centre in Exeter provides access to business databases, market research reports, company data, and information on patents, trademarks, designs and copyright.

Qualified and experienced staff will provide Patent Clinics, monthly

TO THE MANOR BORN

meetings and one-to-one advice and The Centre will also work with local partners to deliver workshops and events and to refer people to relevant local business support services.

The Centre officially launched with an event attended by local business people – and Johnny Winfield from Letter Box Hamper, which sells personalised and luxury hampers of British food and drink, won the Itch to Pitch competition to win a £500 support package.

Michael Caines has announced he plans to open his new, luxury country retreat Lympstone Manor in spring 2017.

Currently being converted into a 21-bedroom hotel and 60-seat restaurant by the two-Michelin star local chef and his architectural and interior design specialists, the Grade II-listed Georgian mansion, known to locals as Courtlands House, sits in 28 acres on the southern edge of Lympstone village, and has stunning views across the Exe Estuary.

There will be three beautiful dining rooms, each with their own decor and identity – Haldon, Mamhead, and Powderham – and a vineyard and tasting rooms are also in the pipeline. Nightly rates will start from £245 per night including breakfast.

“The opening of Lympstone Manor is the realisation of a dream,” says Michael. “Everything that I have achieved in my long career has brought me to this point where I can fully express my vision of contemporary country house hospitality for the 21st century. I can’t wait to welcome old and new friends to my new home!”

For more: BIPC.librariesunlimited.org.uk

For more: lympstonemanor.co.uk

NEW SPONSOR FOR EXETER LIVING AWARDS The Exeter Living Awards are properly, officially open for business! Tickets are now on sale and nominations have opened. And another sponsor has signed up: award-winning hair salon Energy Hair, based at Darts Farm.

The 2016 Awards had extraordinary numbers of nominations, with over 300 companies coming forward. Early signs are that this figure may be beaten, with many new companies discussing how to enter. All the nominations details and tips are on the Awards site (see below).

A strictly limited number of Early Bird tickets are now on sale, covering individual tickets and Associate Tables. Please note, these are set to close soon.

“With last month’s announcement of our panel of wonderful judges and now the tickets and noms opening, things are really motoring!” says Steph Dodd, event manager at MediaClash, which publishes Exeter Living. “And we are delighted to welcome Energy Hair on board as the sponsor of the Creative category.”

The Exeter Living Awards are on 6 April at the Great Hall, University of Exeter.

First sponsors include Princesshay, Wilkinson Grant, Cathedral Appointments, Otter Brewery and, now, Energy Hair.

For sponsorship enquiries, please contact joss.phillips@mediaclash.co.uk.

Or to be involved on the night, it’s stephanie.dodd@mediaclash.co.uk.

Full details are on the site exeterlivingawards.co.uk with updates on Twitter: @ExeterLivingAwd. 100 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIDER

MOTORING ON The 80-acre, multi-award winning, four star Deer Park Country House Hotel near Honiton has just launched its new corporate hospitality and conferencing venue, The Motor House.

Facilities include state of the art AV, air conditioning, and can accommodate 26 guests boardroom-style and 60 for theatre-style meetings. With a range of country pursuits available from paintballing to hovercraft racing, Deer Park aims, in the words of MD Mark Godfrey, to “put fun on your agenda”. As you might have guessed by now, the space also boasts its own collection of classic cars.

For more: deerpark.co.uk

EXETER CHIEFS NEWS Chris Bentley brings you the latest from inside Sandy Park Internationals Luke Charteris and Geoff Parling tussle at 20 feet!

PHOTO BY @PPAUK

‘Heartbreaking’ is about the only word to describe the Chiefs’ most recent game in the Aviva Premiership.

Having already lost four games by a combined total of eight points in a season of near misses, the Chiefs led deep into injury time against top of the table Bath but, with six minutes of injury time elapsed, England international Semesa Rokoduguni swerved in to break 12,000 Exeter hearts!

Following the Bath game, the Anglo Welsh Cup took centre stage and there were wholesale changes to the starting XV, as Ricky Pellow assumed the coaching mantle and the ‘front line’ troops took a well-earned rest. A tough assignment against Harlequins garnered another loss (29-15) but then things, at last, looked like clicking into place as a team boasting 14 of the academy ran in 10 tries to crush Cardiff Blues 62-25.

The fact the Chiefs have been so close in so many games this season shows there isn’t much that needs to change as the season heads to the halfway mark – but the next few games do take on more significance, as fellow midtable teams Newcastle, Worcester and Sale are the opponents. With spirits up from the big win over Cardiff and the injury list clearing, I’m backing the guys to turn the corner and start the assault on the top of the table.

The Cardiff game fell on the 11th day of the 11th month and it was rightful that the club chose to mark the occasion as our ‘forces fixture’. With free tickets to all members of the frontline emergency services and armed forces, the pre-game saw club chaplain Reverend Simon Atkinson lead an emotional service for the 9,000 crowd before chief executive Tony Rowe received the Bronze Forces Covenant in recognition

of the club’s support to serving personnel.

With the club motto ‘semper fidelis’ shared by the Royal Marines – along with three of the backroom staff being former Marines – it’s no surprise the club enjoys a close connection with Her Majesty’s finest, and perhaps this had something to do with the return to form in the game that followed!

Christmas is just around the corner and it’s great to see that Sandy Park has surpassed its record of attendees for parties this season as over 5,400 are now booked in. With the crazy year we’ve had on and off the field it’s great to see the people of Exeter are up for a big shindig; we still have a bit of space on the 3rd December, if the hottest ticket in town is of interest!

And finally, it’s with a heavy heart that I have to admit things didn’t go as well for yours truly on my annual pilgrimage to Bermuda and the World Rugby Classic.

Having won the tournament last season, hopes were high for the Classic Lions team, with Shane Williams leading the charge and Willie John McBride as president. Sadly, a spirited South African team beat us in the semi en route to winning the competition.

This was compounded by an ankle injury limiting me to a 12-minute cameo. Worse was to come on my return home when I noted a 7.5kg weight gain over the 10 day tour!

I’ll put it down to premature Christmas spirit and so, with Christmas in the air, I would like to wish you all the best for this festive season.

Next up for the Chiefs at Sandy Park: 11 December – Bordeaux Begles 24 December – Leicester Tigers For more: exeterchiefs.co.uk

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PROPERTY

TA L K

COUNTRY VS CITY

Hundred Acre Wood-inspired idyll, or swish new city apartment? Decisions, decisions…

Can you see any heffalumps?

COUNTRY HOUSE Were there an award for Best House Name In The UK, this would win hands down. Named after an area of Winnie The Pooh’s Hundred Acre Wood, Where the Woozle Wasn’t – yes, really! – is guaranteed to elicit disbelief and delight from everyone you need to give your address to.

A detached 1930s home, Where the Woozle Wasn’t is the sort of Dartmoor retreat that claustrophobic urbanistas dream about.

On the edge of the village of Manaton, and under a handsome slate roof, spreads 1,800 square feet of living space, arranged thus: five bedrooms (three doubles, two singles), large dining room, generously-sized sitting room, kitchen and family bathroom.

Outside are just over two acres to call your own – well-maintained, mature gardens blessed with native trees, extensive lawned areas, flower and vegetable gardens, fruit trees, terracing, goat shed, chicken shed, 102 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

greenhouse and large double garage (with an extra room). But you can also lay claim to an area of woodland behind the house,

Inevitably, splendid panoramas of tors – including Hunters Tor and Sharpitor – wooded valleys and combes complete the picture.

The Woozle wasn’t there. But maybe you will be?

MAKE AN OFFER IF: You’re a Winnie The Pooh fan AVOID IF: You were, actually, hoping to find a Woozle…

NEED TO KNOW: You are allowed to draw water from a local spring.

WHERE THE WOOZLE WASN'T Manaton, Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ13 9UW £595k

replete with oak, ash, beech, birch, sycamore, hazel, blackthorn, wildlife including badgers, foxes, deer, dormice, owls, ravens, buzzards and woodpeckers and, in spring, bluebells.

Stags 21 Southernhay West, Exeter, EX1 1PR 01392 799076 stags.co.uk

TA L K

PROPERTY

CITY HOUSE You’ve doubtless seen this luxury development taking shape on the Quay next to Samuel Jones and Cricklepit Bridge, and wondered what was going on.

Wonder no more: a converted warehouse yards from Exeter’s waterside, it’s a mix of seven apartments for which the adjective ‘stunning’ is an understatement.

The building’s proud industrial past is ever-present: glorious, double-height vaulted ceilings with original roof trusses in the main living areas and original, exposed brick wall, and period windows.

These are complemented by stylish, contemporary features, including In-Toto kitchens, no less; designer bathrooms; glass room-dividing walls and doors; oak floors; amazing Amos Lighting-designed smart illumination; thermostatically controlled underfloor heating; and large balconies from which to watch the world go by.

We lust so intensely for one, we may need a restraining order…

MAKE AN OFFER IF: You’ve yearned for a loft apartment since that Halifax advert in the 1980s where the man runs out of milk for his cat AVOID IF: You don’t like swans NEED TO KNOW: Car parking's nearby, by arrangement with car park operators.

That world being one of the best, most popular parts of the city, with a number of bars, cafés and restaurants, an eclectic range of artisan shops and interesting businesses, the lovely canal basin and relaxing, trafficfree canal and riverside walks or bike rides, all the way to Topsham and beyond.

Each flat is arranged over two floors around a central, shared atrium courtyard complete with olive trees and trendy seating.

KENNAWAY APARTMENTS Commercial Road, Exeter EX2 4AE 3 bedroom £700k; 2 bedroom £500-£625k; 1 bedroom £425k Wilkinson Grant & Co, Exeter The Old City Library, 1 Castle Street, Exeter EX4 3PT 01392 427500; wilkinsongrant.co.uk

“Easy like Sunday morning…”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 103

EXCEPTIONAL PROPERTIES IN EXETER To find out how we can help you please contact us 19 Southernhay East Exeter, Devon EX1 1QD Exeter@knightfrank.com 01392 976178

Price on Application  @KFExeter KnightFrank.co.uk

Lyndhurst Road, Exeter Built by Heritage Homes, a fantastic modern house within an amazing development of just 5 luxury large homes in the heart of St Leonards. 4/5 bedrooms, contemporary open-plan reception space, fitted kitchen and dining room. Driveway parking, double garage and garden. EPC: B.

Guide Price: ÂŁ995,000

Tedburn St Mary A rare opportunity to acquire this substantial period property with over 13,000 sq ft of floor space in a fantastic rural setting.

Outbuildings, a leisure complex, sweeping driveway and ample parking, in all about 6 acres. EPC: G.

New Instruction

EXCEPTIONAL PROPERTIES IN EXETER To find out how we can help you please contact us 19 Southernhay East Exeter, Devon EX1 1QD Exeter@knightfrank.com 01392 976178

Guide price: £850,000

Ottery St Mary A charming period property with large gardens and a 1 bed annexe. 4 bedrooms, 5 reception rooms and 3 bathrooms. In all about 1.2 acres. EPC: D.

@KFExeter KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide Price: £1,300,000

Topsham Modern 4 bedroom house with views across the River Exe. Large open-plan living space, study and family room. Garden, parking and double garage. EPC: B.

hometrust

estate agents ★★★★★

Stand Out Service Sales, Letting & Property Management 01392 493113. info@hometrust.co.uk

www.hometrust.co.uk

Residential Sales, Lettings & Property Management

Moving in 2017?

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Following an exceptional year for both sales and lettings, we have buyers and tenants looking for property across Exeter and the surrounding areas.

For more information please call: 01392 215283 or visit www.naomijryan.co.uk

Residential Sales, Lettings & Property Management

If you are considering selling or letting your property we would be delighted to hear from you to discuss your requirements.

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Contact us to arrange your free, no obligation valuation on 01392 215 283

Visit: 23 Southernhay West, Exeter EX1 1PR or email: enquiries@naomijryan.co.uk

EXETER OIRO £440,000

A Hatchard-Smith 4 bedroom family home with gardens and grounds approximately 1 acre, situated in one of Budleigh Salterton’s premier residential locations, adjoining the East Devon Golf Club. EPC=D REF:DJB00304

A beautifully proportioned modern town house, perfectly located in a most convenient and remarkably peaceful position overlooking a green. Includes entrance hall, cloakroom, excellent kitchen/dining room, utility room, first floor sitting room, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, delightful south facing rear garden, garage and parking. A fine property and a fabulous opportunity. EPC=C REF:DWE05516

BUDLEIGH SALTERTON GUIDE PRICE £650,000

NYMET ROWLAND OIRO £565,000

One of the largest detached houses with a garden room and garage on this exclusive development built by Blue Cedar Homes in 2011 for the over 55’s. Sitting/dining room, garden room, kitchen with integrated appliances, ground floor bedroom and shower room, 2 first floor bedrooms, dressing area, bathroom, garage, gardens and patio. EPC=C REF:DJB00384

An outstanding period Grade II Listed 4 bed farmhouse with detached stone and cob barn plus nearly 3 acres. 2 living rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, work room, 3 bath/shower rooms, paddocks REF:DWE05286

AG SA RE LE ED

BUDLEIGH SALTERTON GUIDE PRICE £950,000

01392 259395

www.whittonandlaing.com Sales / Lettings / Block Management / Chartered Surveying / Auctions

20 Queen Street, Exeter, EX4 3SN

EXETER LIVES

Q&A

A

Answer to Where Am I? (page 11): Statue in front of Reed Hall, Exeter University

dam Oseland learned to cook at Exeter College and worked as a pastry chef at, among others, the Lanesborough Hotel in London, Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant in Padstow, the Puffing Billy in Exton and The Royal Clarence Hotel in Exeter.

That was before photography took over his life. However, he still indulges his passion for the perfect dish by training his lens on it. “After all it is said that we eat with our eyes,” he says.

Adam’s also an in-demand wedding photographer based out of Topsham but travelling all over the country, and cites Irving Penn, Jerry Uelsmann, Martin Parr and Andreas Gursky among his camera-wielding inspirations.

Where do you call home and what makes it special?

Topsham and the community spirit.

What are your memories of working at the poor old Royal Clarence Hotel?

It was an amazing old building to work in because of its age and design – however, the building would challenge you every day. Luckily the staff there were highly trained professionals and always pulled together to provide the service that was expected, time and time again.

ADAM OSELAND

What piece of music would you put on at the end of a trying day?

Frankie Goes To Hollywood: Relax.

When did you last cry?

My dad’s funeral. Or the time I got sawdust in my eye.

What’s your karaoke song of choice?

I’ve never done karaoke – it’s best avoided, I find.

What issue, more than any other, makes you want to get up on a soapbox?

MPs’ expenses, and Hinckley Point.

What has been your proudest moment?

Marrying my wife.

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

Every time I had to stand up and read in school.

(I’m dyslexic).

What’s your earliest childhood memory?

Being tucked into bed so tight I couldn’t get out.

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

She would say ‘determined’ or ‘stubborn’ – one or the other.

The Topsham-based photographer and father of twins dreams of Otter Amber and fish and chips on the beach

What’s your most treasured possession?

My MacBook and camera.

When people ask “So what’s Exeter like?” what do you say?

Growing up in and Exeter all my life, I have seen many changes to the city but one thing that hasn’t changed is the friendliness and resilience of the people. However, in rush hour it’s like a giant car park.

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Matt Damon.

Your favourite places to eat, drink and shop in Exeter and the surrounding area?

The Salutation for dinner – we are so lucky to have a hotel like this on our doorstep, or Krispies fish and chips and a walk down Exmouth beach with the family and dog. As I’ve aged, I find myself being strangely drawn to charity shops, as you never know what you’ll find.

114 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Where in the nearby countryside do you like to go to escape the hustle and bustle of town life?

Woodbury Common.

What are you reading/listening to/watching at the moment?

These questions/our 11-month-old twins crying/ the twins eating the dog’s biscuits.

If you had a time machine, which era would you return to and why?

That’s like buying a car with only reverse.

Do you have any hidden interests?

I’ve had a look and I can’t find them.

What’s your favourite indulgence?

Locally-brewed ale. Otter Amber is my first choice followed closely by a pint of Tribute.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

To pause time. Or to fly.

We’d better let you get on… What are you doing right after this?

Walking the dog.

adamoselandphotography.com

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