Exeter Living - issue 204

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Homes ISSUE 204 / JANUARY 2017 / £3

MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME

EXETER & BEYOND

ISSUE 204 / JANUARY 2017 / GET AWAY!

THE COSIEST LOCAL MINI BREAKS AND

E N E R GY H A I R D E A N FO R G E FO O D & D R I N K N E W S

THE BANK OF MUM & DAD ADVICE FROM EXETER'S EXPERTS

GETTING SNIFFY AT WOODFORDE'S PERFUMERY

Visit your local Amtico Retailer 11 Marsh Barton Road, Marsh Barton, Exeter EX2 8NU Telephone: 01392 279231 www.stonemanandbowker.co.uk

Monmouth Slate in Broken Bond laying pattern with Miarbelle Creme stripping.

FLOORING

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 204 / JANUARY 2017

And breathe. . .

52

SCENTS AND SENSIBILITY Whiffs of nostalgia at Woodforde’s Perfumery

We thought about making this a ‘scratch-and-sniff’ special.

You see, there are quite a few delicious aromas floating throughout these pages: mainly from this issue’s Special Shop, the extraordinary Woodforde’s Perfumery in Sidmouth, but also in the luxe products at Energy Hair, and in the roaring fires and fresh flowers of our mini-breaks feature.

Our pick of the best places to hunker down for a quick getaway with someone special starts on page 33.

But before you set off, can we pass on two pieces of seriously good advice?

1) Before you go, warn everyone you “might not have a signal” where you’re going; then give one person the hotel’s number in case of emergency and switch off your phone the second you pull up outside your weekend destination.

2) If planning to sneak in your own bottle of wine for the room, pack wine glasses. Drinking out of water tumblers feels a bit studenty.

You’re welcome!

Enjoy January, and we’ll see you back here in three weeks.

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 204 / JANUARY 2017 M EET T H E T EAM

UPFRONT

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

8 Spotlight

Allotments, Jim Moray, Extagram and other distractions

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 Fran McElhone, David Flatman, Roxanne Duris, Chris Bentley, Kitty Kane

15 Tess Read

We all love to travel – but do our friends love to hear about it?

17 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

Rachael Whitson of Absolute Media has a helluva view...

MAIN FEATURES 20 Bank of Mum and Dad All you need to know about supporting your kids (without leaving yourself high and dry!)

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

33 Staycation Best places for a cosy mini-break right on your doorstep

ARTS

20

39 Arts Intro Beautiful images of Queen Victoria’s trip to Paris

40 What’s On Who said January had to be quiet and frugal? Not this magazine...

FOOD & DRINK 47 News

52 Special shop

Meet three people shaking things up in the local restaurant scene

How to smell like Napoleon, MarieAntoinette or Kate Middleton...

49 Recipe A healthy but belly-busting salad for gluttons and clean eaters alike

SHOPPING 51 Shopping Intro In the mood to splash out on a woodburner? We’ve found an amazing one...

HEALTH 59 Energy Rating Fran McElhone visits Energy Hair at Darts Farm

PROPERT Y 70 Showcase Why Fire And Smoke Farm is the dream house for sports-loving aesthetes

REGUL ARS

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.

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

61 Seen!

Party, party, party! Were you there?

BUSINESS 65 Business Insider Boards, awards and more

47

70

82 Exeter Lives

Sarah Lacey of The Terrace

On the cover The Georgian Kitchen at The Pig at Combe

SALE NOW ON

CHURCH ROAD, ALPHINGTON, EXETER, EX2 8SW

01392 433292

WWW.QUEENSTREET.CO.UK

LUXURIOUS DUNLOPILLO BEDS WITH FREE UPGRADE

SALE

NOW ON BARCELONA SOFA & CHAIR AVAILABLE IN A WIDE RANGE OF SOFT FABRICS.

WHAT’S MAKING THE NEWS IN EXETER

Take care of all your New Year’s resolutions at once with a new allotment

EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT…

DIGGING DEEP If your New Year’s resolutions list contained things like eating more healthily, getting more exercise, saving money and helping the environment, we have one word for you: allotment Daniel Smith took over the management of Exeter City Council’s allotments 18 months ago, and in that time, he’s brought the citywide waiting list down from 800 people to 150. Thanks to closer links with allotment associations and larger plots being broken up, you now only have to wait 6-8 months for an allotment in most parts of Exeter.

Daniel says “the joy of working outdoors in the fresh air, fresh home-grown produce and being a part of a community that shares a common interest and passion” are what appeals to allotment holders.

“Scientists have shown that spending just half an hour a week tending your veg results in reduced levels of stress and fatigue as 8 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

well as improving users’ vigour, self-esteem and general feeling of good health. It is also a great alternative to the gym for burning off those post-Christmas calories, as well as improving your diet with the healthy fruit and veg you end up producing.

“Gone are the days of allotments only being the preserve of old men in flat caps. Women now make up almost half of those that use the allotments, with many couples and young families having small plots.

“Allotments also provide havens for wildlife throughout Exeter and have a significant role to play in the protection and promotion of biodiversity. With an increasing pressure on wildlife numbers in this country, allotments

are providing secure areas where they can survive and flourish.”

Exeter’s soil and climate are excellent for growing most everyday vegetables from carrots and spuds to runner beans and asparagus. And the workload? It averages out over the year at about five hours a week for a beginners plot, says Daniel.

To apply for an allotment in one of the 23 sites across Exeter, log on to the Exeter City Council website and find the allotments page, where there is an online form that asks where in the city would be most convenient for you (you can also specify an individual site). Or call and chat to one of the allotments team.

For more: 01392 265370; exeter.gov.uk

SPOTLIGHT

“If you say the words ‘metropolitan elite’ one more time, I’m gonna shove that sausage...”

Local folk share their photos This issue: musicians Velvet & Stone instagram.com/velvetandstoneuk

Beach days

THEATRE

FULL ENGLISH?

Lots of #songwriting inspiration to be had in deepest darkest, rainy Devon

Our talented @katgoldby moonlighting in the orchestra!

Oh dear. Just when you thought you’d mended fences with all the loved ones you fell out with over Brexit, along comes a play guaranteed to get you arguing all over again.

Although, maybe, with a few more laughs along the way.

Substance & Shadow Theatre’s new black comedy The Brexit Club, written by Midge and Rosie Mullin with Nathan Simpson, is set on the day of the 2016 EU Referendum and sees cousins Len Silver, Melvyn Gould and their workmates thrashing the matter out in the works canteen.

Says Midge Mullin: “We wanted to explore

the way in which the EU referendum came crashing into our homes, our workplaces, our pubs and suddenly careered through the front rooms of the nation causing chaos.

“Amidst all the confusion, misinformation and fears, people found themselves asking the question – how can our family and friends be so fundamentally different from who we are and how we see the world?”

The play runs on Fri 3, Mon 6 and Thurs 9 February – see page 40 for more details. cygnettheatre.co.uk barnfieldtheatre.org.uk

ART

GUILD ME UP

Privileged to record a new video @ cuberecording yesterday.

Look out for it shortly! Xx

Sunday Morning... processing

If it’s January in a year ending in an odd number, it must be time for Get Fresh.

The biennial Devon Guild Show celebrates new and emerging designer-makers from the South West who are within five years of graduating, finishing training or setting up a new practice.

This year’s event showcases furniture, ceramics, glass, jewellery, lighting, paper, photography, sculpture and textiles by 15 selected makers: Luke Axworthy, Jo Barker, Mark Cullen, Sarah Duncan, Carey Ellis, Emma Finch, Tom Gyr, Sarah Hitchens, Carol Hunt, Claire Read, Marieke Ringel, Fern Robinson, Katie Robinson, Heather Scott and Stacey West.

See work by Claire Read at Get Fresh

Catch it from Saturday 14 January - Sunday 5 March at Devon Guild of Craftsmen in Bovey Tracey. And if you’ve got Christmas money to spend, take it with you… crafts.org.uk

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

SPOTLIGHT

Ready for his close-up...

NATURE

OTTERLY BRILLIANT A public arts initiative on Dartmoor has just launched, with the aim of raising £100,000 to create an enhanced visitor experience and essential conservation on Dartmoor.

The Moor Otters public arts initiative will see 100 otter sculptures, all uniquely decorated by selected artists and sponsored by regional businesses, ‘released’ on and around Dartmoor next summer, creating a trail for the public to explore, before being sold.

The money raised will be used for projects to conserve and enhance Dartmoor’s landscape, wildlife initiatives not specifically covered by the Park’s core funding, and help develop Dartmoor’s Young Ranger programme.

SEVEN DEADLY SINS In our regular mini Q&A with visiting and local performers, folk musician JIM MORAY bares his wicked soul LUST: Who or what do you find yourself lusting after today?

Françoise Hardy circa 1968.

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

Procrastinating. I’m terrible for avoiding the thing I’m supposed to be doing.

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

Pizza Workshop, North St, Bristol BS3.

Order a number 4 and tell them I sent you.

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

Says Dave Southern, Project Manager for the Moor Otters campaign: “We hope the Moor Otters campaign will help people understand that wonderful spaces such as Dartmoor National Park require crucial and specialist conservation to maintain the stunning landscape and protect the wildlife. The money raised from the project will help to ensure this fantastic work continues.

“We’d like to thank everyone who has supported the campaign so far and encourage any other regional businesses that may wish to sponsor an otter or get involved in the project to get in touch.” moorotters.co.uk

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

I’m in the process of moving house, and I’ve got 10 years of stuff to pack into boxes. Deciding what to throw away is nearly impossible, especially as a lot of it is props from videos or photo shoots.

If anyone wants a huge rabbit mask and can collect…

WRATH: What/who makes you angry?

I’m angry (like everyone else) at the way anti-intellectualism has taken over in the last few years.

ENVY: Who are you jealous of?

I’m jealous of my former self for having twice as much time to do things. But he’d be jealous of his future self for having learned how to avoid disappearing down dead ends, so it evens out.

PRIDE: What’s your proudest achievement?

Finishing my song Sounds Of Earth. It was like a huge Sudoku to fit everything in the right amount of lines, but finishing it was like a milestone. And on to the next…

Jim Moray performs his acclaimed album Upcetera at Exeter Phoenix on Sun 22 Jan; exeterphoenix.org.uk

Anne on her 20th birthday

BOOKS

CODE CLUB Loved The Imitation Game? Then you’ll devour a new book by 94-year-old Topsham resident Anne Glyn-Jones, who worked for Bletchley Park during World War II, intercepting German Morse Code signals.

In Morse Code Station X: Bletchley’s Outer Circle, published on 1 February to celebrate 100 years of the Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRNS), Anne details her journey from boarding school to a life in military intelligence: the round-the-clock shifts, bed bugs, rats and poor diet that took their toll, as well as the lack of respect from the Navy hierarchy, and her frankly-expressed angst about the job at hand: “I was to listen to some German sailor and then do my best to get him killed. I felt as if I had just been appointed a member of a execution squad… I came of a generation which still saw women as primarily nurturers, not destroyers.”

A foreword by Princess Anne says of the author: “Her bravery, tenacity and discretion are a shining example to younger women today wanting to make a contribution to society by serving those around them.” imprint.co.uk

WHERE AM I?

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

We found ourselves peering into this window recently.

Can you identify our location? Find out on page 82. . .

WANT MORE? Sign up now for the Exeter Living newsletter...

We have a New Year’s resolution for you, Exeter Living reader. Start receiving our popular 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

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

“so caring and understanding�

Brain injury has many causes and can happen to anyone at any time. We are the local specialists and have been providing care for people with brain injuries and their families for over 20 years. If you know someone who is affected by brain injury, we are here to help.

For more information please call us on 01392 211822 or visit our website.

www.headwaydevon.org.uk

OPINION

TESS READ

ALL WE REALLY WANT TO KNOW IS, WERE YOUR PASSPORTS EATEN BY KILLER MOTHS?

WHEN FIVE WENT AROUND THE WORLD Tess went on the trip of a lifetime – but don’t worry, some of it was awful

W

e took a trip a year ago. A long trip.

Specifically, my husband and I took our three children out of school for a year and home schooled them while we travelled the world. We went East, since you ask, travelling first across Europe, then into Jordan, Sri Lanka, then Bali, Australia, and on to New Zealand where we spent Christmas with family and the kids went to school for a month. Then we went across the Pacific to Tahiti, Easter Island, then to Latin America where we stayed in Chile, Argentina, Peru and Bolivia before travelling across America on a 7,000 mile road trip.

“Wow!” says everyone. “What was it like? I bet it was fabulous,” they say, but before we have a chance to reply, it’s straight onto the real question: “Did you have any disasters?”

Ah, travelling – that dream of escape, the call of the wild, the quest for adventure, or just the desire to sit on a beach in the warm sun. We nearly all of us love doing it, in one form or another, and when we come back home we love to talk about it. But do our friends like to listen?

We’ve all been there – your friends have just returned from their trip to the mysterious interior of eastern Greenland, or to the incredibly picturesque capital of Madagascan Guatemala, and are champing at the bit to tell you about their amazing experiences.

How they ate incredible food, met some wonderful people, were invited to the local street festival which went on for simply days, rode on camels and baby elephants and brought back such exquisite mementos to remind them of their fabulous time.

And how do we react to this news? Do we delight in our friends’ happiness? Do we urge them to tell us more and yet more? I fear not. Instead the eyes glaze over, the interest wanes, and soon we are making our excuses and finding urgent Facebook posts to read on our phones.

Because all we really want to know is – were your passports eaten by killer moths and you had to camp out at the Embassy for several days? Were your flights delayed by so long that you knew every inch of the one-horse airport and had to sleep on the floor with your possessions tied to your waist? Did you get such horrendous food poisoning on your beach paradise that your projectile vomiting could be heard across the whole resort, you could barely stand upright and lent a whole new meaning to going loco down in Acapulco? Did, to put it bluntly, you have such a terrible, horrible disaster that I can feel much better about having stayed at home?

You may be my friend, but I certainly hope so.

“Smile, everyone.

NOW!”

So, yes, you will be pleased to know, we did have disasters. While we were in Chile there was a flood, a drought and then a volcano erupted near us. It was horrendous! The sun didn’t rise that day! We had to drive for two days straight to escape the ash. It was a terrible, awful experience and we will none of us forget it.

But I’m not going to lie to you, the rest of the trip was ace. Sorry!

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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PEOPLE

MY DESK

RACHAEL WHITSON Out in verdant Dunchideock is where you’ll find the enviable workspace of Absolute PR & Marketing founder Rachael, a West Country native since 1995. She is also a trustee of Age UK Exeter and a volunteer press officer for Exeter Triathlon Club, runs triathlons herself and is a devoted servant to her dog, Monty. How she does any of this without being distracted by that gorgeous view, we have no idea. . . absoluteprandmarketing.com

Essential for amusing a flatcoated retriever in the workplace!

Nuts and energy bars provide fuel throughout the day and set me up for my after-work training sessions

My Apple technology is essential for running a business, ensuring my schedule’s on track, keeping me upto-date with the day’s news agenda and monitoring social media

The team made me this rather kitsch snow globe for a recent birthday featuring a lovely shot of my dog Monty

Binoculars and a bird book help me enjoy and identify some of the amazing wildlife right outside our window

Although lots of our work is now online, coverage in regional, national and trade print media still remains essential

Our personality profiling insights help us work and communicate more effectively – I keep this as a constant reminder

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 17

EXETER CATHEDRAL SCHOOL Nursery | Pre-Prep | Prep

‘Balances academia and childhood brilliantly’ Good Schools Guide review, October 2016

Chorister Voice Trials 31st January • School Open Morning 7th March 01392 255298 | www.exetercs.org | reception@exetercs.org

FEELING the SQUEEZE? Kids can cost their mums and dads a fortune; especially when they hit adulthood. ANNA BRITTEN asked some of Exeter’s most experienced experts in family finance and law everything you’ve ever wanted to know about supporting your offspring 20 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

OVER THE LAST

10 YEARS THERE HAS BEEN A NOTICEABLE INCREASE IN

FUNDS FROM THE BANK OF MUM AND DAD

T

he idea that each generation would be more fortunate than the last is now, sadly, as outdated as Betamax and Sodastream.

So-called millennials – those born between 1982 and 2004 – are widely predicted to become the first generation to do worse than their parents financially. Student debt, the global economic crisis, and a job market depressingly short of permanent well-paid, pensionable jobs, have colluded to make financial independence and prosperity increasingly hard to achieve. The wealth gap between older and younger people has also widened significantly for millennials. The Bank of Mum and Dad is estimated to have helped finance 25% of UK mortgage transactions during 2016.

So how can parents – some of them, of course, also victim to these woes – financially help their kids at all stages of life… from the day they’re born until their own twilight years?

BANK OF MUM & DAD We asked Exeter-based experts at bankers Handelsbanken and law firms Crosse & Crosse, Ford Simey and Cartridges for the best ways to safeguard your children’s financial future, whatever your income.

Have you seen an increase in parents seeking ways to support their children financially in recent years? If so, what do you think has led to this increase?

Handelsbanken: Most definitely. Especially in terms of supporting them through higher education and, increasingly, to help them get on the property ladder. To be honest, this is extending beyond parents to grandparents as well, as property prices continue to increase.

Ford Simey: Over the last 10 years there has been a noticeable increase in the funds received from the Bank of Mum and Dad. Baby Boomer parents saw a significant increase in house prices, many benefited from generous pensions and consequently had spare cash to lavish on their little darlings to help them buy homes. This either results as lump sums from things like pension payments or investments that parents have managed to accumulate over the years, or by parents taking out a loan on their own property, which is mortgage-free, to help the children. w

What role should parents be playing in the financial lives of their children, little and big?

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 21

BANK OF MUM & DAD What is the single biggest mistake that people make surrounding money/offspring?

Ford Simey: Making a gift that is too generous and leaving themselves in the future with financial difficulty. The second mistake is that they don’t really think to whom they are giving the gifts.

By that we mean that they may well be giving a gift to a couple who may or may not be married, and it is whether their intent is to give the gift to both parties, i.e. not just to benefit their own offspring. We come across situations quite often when parents are somewhat aghast that the happy couple is splitting up and that the parents’ hard-earned savings, which have been gifted to what they thought was just their daughter/son, have in fact gone into the melting pot and will benefit their non-blood relation.

There are several ways to ensure that these kind of difficulties do not arise. Take your accountant’s advice on the affordability and your tax position and make sure that you can afford what you are doing and you are doing it in the right way. If you are going to make the gift, then make sure you are clear to whom you are making the gift and that it is adequately protected. In the case of buying a house, this can be via a separate deed of trust which will clearly set out the intention of the parties and, in the event that they do split up, how the proceeds are then divided to ensure that everybody’s interests are protected.

Another important way of protecting your financial position is making sure that you make a valid and effective will that takes into account these kind of circumstances.

Handelsbanken: It’s a natural instinct of every parent to help and support their children, but really important to ensure that children take responsibility for their own finances (especially as they get older) and do not become over-reliant on you.

We’re parents but not spouses. Would it be better for the kids financially if we got married?

Cartridges: This depends on whose name the assets are in, and who the children will live with if you split up. If you are the parent with the assets in your name, especially the house, then marriage is unlikely to improve your financial security.

If, on the other hand, the assets are owned in the other parent’s name, then marriage will give you better claims. Importantly, it will give you occupation rights in the house, which you can register to ensure the home cannot readily be sold or re-mortgaged without your agreement, especially if you split up.

Crosse & Crosse: It is probably not advisable to get married if you are only doing so for purely financial reasons, and if you are both perfectly happy in your relationship without tying the knot.

That said, there are some financial benefits of being married. The main benefit only comes into effect when one of you dies, as married couples can pass assets to each other on death without incurring inheritance tax. What’s more, when 22 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

the second person passes away, you can use both spouses’ tax allowances which would enable you to pass on more of your estates to your children.

There can also be pension benefits to inherit on death, which will normally pass to the surviving spouse, but not necessarily to people who are only living together. A solicitor could assist you in considering your assets and the best way to protect them from a tax planning point of view.

I’ve helped my son/daughter buy a house; should I now get them to sign a pre-nup?

Crosse & Crosse: The best way to protect the money you have given your child is to make this a formal loan, and then secure that by registering a charge against their property. You can still do this after the purchase, provided all parties agree.

If the monies are intended to be a gift, though, it will be much harder for you to try and claw them back if your child gets married and then subsequently separates or gets divorced at a later date, as then the monies will have become intermingled with the matrimonial assets.

It might be sensible to consider a pre-nuptial agreement, and these are now more recognised by the Courts provided they are both procedurally and substantively fair when drafted. w

Below: Hold onto your own financial security, urges Penny Scott, partner at Cartridges Law

BANK OF MUM & DAD

BIGGEST MISTAKE? MAKING A GIFT THAT IS TOO GENEROUS

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Clockwise from left: Darren Galliford, branch manager of Handelsbanken in Exeter; Felix Medland of solicitors Ford Simey; steady on, son – sometimes the Bank of Mum and Dad is pretty stretched too. . .

NEED AN EXPERT? P i c k u p t h e p h one f o r more from our a dvi ce-gi ver s

Handelsbanken Full-service bank with a decentralised way of working and strong local presence 19 Southernhay West, Exeter EX1 1PJ 01392 494452; handelsbanken.co.uk/exeter Ford Simey Solicitors with offices in Exeter, Exmouth, Sidmouth and Honiton Senate Court, Southernhay Gardens, Exeter EX1 1UG 01392 274126; fordsimey.co.uk

However, whether it will be possible to ring-fence your contribution to the property and enable you to recoup it will depend on the needs of the parties, particularly any minor children, and the Court has discretion to ensure fairness, which may mean departing from the terms of any prenuptial agreement to the extent necessary to achieve that.

Cartridges: A pre-nuptial agreement would not be something you could be a party to, so this is not really worth the potentially awkward conversations it would be likely to trigger in the family. I would suggest they have a declaration of trust drafted. This will show the amount paid towards the purchase price by both parties and any other individual, and the shares in which they hold the property, and will secure their individual shares in the event of one of the parties dying.

In terms of protecting my children’s future assets, what’s the best age to sign over all my wealth? Should I do it as soon as I hit, say, 75, or wait until I become ill?

Cartridges: We would never suggest ‘signing over your property’ or other ‘assets’. If you relinquish the legal rights in your property, there is no 24 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

legal entitlement to have these returned in the future. By doing this, you are therefore losing any financial security and choices over how the property is dealt with. Many people look at this as a way of reducing the value of the estate for Inheritance Tax (IHT) purposes, or for reducing any amount which can be considered for care home fees.

The government has means by which they can look into the reason why a property has been ‘signed over’ and, if it is considered primarily to be to avoid care homes fees or IHT, any transfer can be reversed.

Crosse & Crosse: It is only ever advisable to pass on wealth to the next generation to the extent that you are sure that you will not need to have access to the funds yourself.

If you do have spare cash or assets, for inheritance tax savings to be obtained it is better to make gifts before you become ill since you need to survive for seven years for the sums to fall outside of your estate.

Also, as part of overall estate planning, you should consider certain trust-based investments, which save inheritance tax. An independent financial advisor would be able to advise in that

Crosse & Crosse Proving legal advice on all aspects of law 14 Southernhay West, Exeter EX1 1PL 01392 258451; crosse.co.uk Cartridges Exeter solicitors with strong roots in local community 46-47 Cowick St, Exeter EX4 1AP 01392 256854; cartridgeslaw.co.uk

Also standing by to help, in an office near you: Legal WBW Solicitors: wbw.co.uk Gilbert Stephens: gilbertstephens.co.uk Financial Hawksmoor Investment Management: hawksmoorim.co.uk Seabrook Clark: seabrookclark.co.uk Investec: investec.co.uk Old Mill Accountants: oldmillgroup.co.uk

BANK OF MUM & DAD

WE WOULD NEVER

SUGGEST SIGNING OVER ALL YOUR PROPERTY OR OTHER ASSETS

regard. A solicitor will also ensure that you make the most of your inheritance tax allowances, in particular ensuring that your will meets the criteria of the forthcoming and rather complex Residence Nil Rate Band.

If you pass on your wealth to your children and then find that you are in need of social care, the Local Authority might be able to disregard such gifts and assess your capital to include what you have given away. This is less likely if you were in good health when you made the gifts.

Professional duties aside, what do you feel about parents increasingly supporting adult children? Is it a good or bad thing?

Ford Simey: For a lot of first-time buyers now there is little alternative other than to get help from the Bank of Mum and Dad. There have been other schemes such as Help to Buy (now withdrawn), but the most common and effective way of helping younger people onto the property ladder is through parents supporting their children financially in this way.

The alternative is to have them living at home – which probably isn’t the best alternative for either party! Over, say, the last 10 years, the fall in living standards and low property inflation in many areas means even the Bank of Mum and Dad is stretched at times!

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 25

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.

S O L I C I T O R S “Efficient and prompt service. Good value for money.”

“Best service we have ever had from a solicitor!”

“Very good service”

“Really professional and friendly”

“High quality, sought to protect our interests, got on with the job”

“Have always found you to be good”

Visit us online at: www.fordsimey.co.uk Exeter: 01392 274126 - Exmouth: 01395 272241 - Sidmouth: 01395 577061 - Honiton: 01404 540020

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

Cartridges Law How can I reduce my inheritance tax liability? By Karyna Squibb

A

t Cartridges Law we specialise in helping people plan for the future.

From writing a will, or dealing with a complicated probate issue, to advising on inheritance tax – the tax payable on the estate (property, money and possessions) of someone who has died.

One of the questions I get asked most frequently by my clients in relation to inheritance tax (IHT) is about the most efficient ways to mitigate their IHT liability.

Below are some options which you may like to consider: • Potentially Exempt Transfers (PETs) – any gift you make in your lifetime, if you survive seven years from the date the gift was made, will be exempt for IHT purposes. If you do not survive the full seven years from the date of the gift you may be eligible for taper relief, which will reduce the amount of IHT payable on the gifts.

• Gifts in each tax year – another way in which

you can reduce your IHT liability is by giving away £3,000 in any tax year. As long as the gifts are below £3,000 they will not be considered for IHT. • Charitable gifts – any gifts made to charity are exempt from IHT. • Gifting 10 per cent or more of an estate to charity – if you pass 10 per cent or more of your estate to charity, the total IHT amount reduces from 40 per cent to 36 per cent for the rest of your estate.

• Creation of a Charitable Trust – any money transferred into a Charitable Trust is exempt from IHT. • Creation of a Discretionary Trust – money transferred into a Discretionary Trust up to the IHT allowance, currently £325,000, is exempt from IHT. There are, however, other tax implications with regards to Discretionary Trusts which should be considered.

Inheritance tax is a complicated area of law and we recommend seeking advice from an expert.

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

S TAY C AT I O N S

Make YOURSELF at HOME Book a mini-break on your own doorstep this winter – from cosy country hotels to undiscovered Exeter, ANNA BRITTEN picks out some great spots to spark that holiday feeling with minimal effort… w

Hunker down at The Pig at Combe

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 33

S TAY C AT I O N S

R

umour has it, some people like to jet off to the snowy slopes of Courcheval or Whistler at this time of year. Good for them.

When they return with sprained ankles, ski goggle tan lines and a big credit card bill, we’ll feel awful about telling them what a lovely time we’ve had within an hour or so’s drive of Exeter.

And we’d never dream of lecturing them that local mini-breaks are vastly better for the economy, society and environment than foreign ones and that, in fact, 2017 is the UN’s International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. And that this is holiday country, right here in Devon. No, we’ll just enjoy the smug feeling.

Here are some of our favourite local (and local-ish) places to stay, and some great ideas from Exeter BID on what to do without even straying beyond the city limits.

THE PIG AT COMBE

You’ll never forget a stay (or a feed) at this ingenius informal spin on the country house hotel – all cheery staff, mismatched coloured glassware, stuffed animals, roaring fires and some of the most delightfully quirky bedrooms we’ve ever seen. We love the Horse Box, in the converted

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

stables, which left us literally lost for words.

Double room from £145 per night The Pig At Combe, Gittisham, Honiton EX14 3AD; 01404 540400; thepighotel.com

GIDLEIGH PARK

Nowhere will make you feel quite like you’ve ‘made it’ as a stay at the seriously upper-crust Gidleigh, where we’re told Coldplay stayed during R1’s Big Weekend. Just half an hour’s drive from Exeter but it might be another world: luxurious, elegant rooms and head chef Michael Wignall has secured two Michelin stars for the restaurant so, yep, food’s OK too. The family loft suite is a fantastic eyrie for a couple with little ones.

Double room from around £250 per night.

Gidleigh Park, Chagford TQ13 8HH; 01647 432 367; gidleigh.co.uk

DEER PARK COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL

You can choose from luxury rooms, a selfcatering three-bedroom cottage and even a glam tree house at this antique-packed 18th century Georgian mansion in the soporifically bucolic surroundings of the Honiton countryside. Various varieties of special offers from gourmet breaks to stay-and-pamper packages.

Double room from around £90 per night.

Buckerell Village, Weston, Honiton EX14 3PG; 01404 41266; deerparkcountryhotel.co.uk

THIS IS HOLIDAY COUNTRY, RIGHT HERE IN DEVON

Opposite: Warm up this winter at The Horn of Plenty Above: Book a cosy lodge at Longlands

FLY LOCAL! And if foreign climes are still irresistible…

“There’s a huge range of mini-break options from Exeter Airport,” says Exeter Airport’s Stephen Ayres.

“Fly over the Channel to Europe on one of the daily flights to Amsterdam or Paris; try a few days in Dublin or Belfast across the Irish Sea, then there’s Scotland with the choice of Edinburgh or Glasgow and the scenic Channel Islands with flights to Jersey and Guernsey. If smaller islands are of interest then there’s the summer service to the Isles of Scilly.

“The choice continues with Newcastle and Norwich, Manchester and London with the city airport in the Docklands only a short tube ride to the centre of the Capital.

“Frequent flights to Spain are also an option, with Alicante and Malaga ideal for a few days away in the Mediterranean climate.”

For more: exeter-airport.co.uk

BOVEY CASTLE

“Lock me in this castle and throw away the key,” wrote Exeter Living after spending the night at this magical and magnificent historic destination.

Sweeping along the elegant drive that leads to the castle is like arriving at Downton Abbey and inside you’ll find seriously Lady Grantham-worthy rooms with panoramic countryside views and sumptuous furnishings. There are cosy lodges in the grounds for larger groups, too.

Various offers up for grabs during the colder months, and a tempting Sunday night deal called ‘Keep calm and pretend it’s not Monday’.

Double room from around £179 per night.

Bovey Castle, North Bovey, Dartmoor National Park TQ13 8RE; 0844 4740077; boveycastle.com

THE HORN OF PLENTY

There’s always something new to see and fall in love with at Julie Leivers’ devilishly handsome four-star country house hotel between the rivers Tamar and Tavy.

Ask for a room in the old house, preferably the one with the sunken bath from which you can watch the sunset! 3AA Rosette fine dining restaurant, too.

Double room from just £159 in January/ February, and £179 in March (Winter Getaway offer until 31 March, with dinner and breakfast).

Offer excludes Saturdays and Valentine’s.

The Horn of Plenty, Gulworthy, Tavistock PL19 8JD; 01822 832528; thehornofplenty.co.uk

THE IMPERIAL HOTEL

Run by the AA Hotel Group of the Year 2016, Brend Hotels, this grand old lady of Barnstaple has legions of returning guests who love its tranquil setting overlooking the river, timeless English seaside style, and winning staff for whom nothing is too much trouble (they will always dish out an upgrade if they can).

The Imperial Hotel, Taw Vale Parade, Barnstaple EX32 8NB; 01271 345861; brend-imperial.co.uk

WOODBURY PARK

A huge brick fireplace with neatly stacked logs beside it greets you in the bar of this genial establishment. Golfers can book in for a Twilight golf package to enjoy a round on the world-class 18-hole course before dinner, and if you don’t know one end of a putter from the other, the greens make for a lovely, wildlife-packed walk.

Woodbury Park Hotel & Golf Club Ltd, Woodbury Castle, Woodbury, Exeter EX5 1JJ; 01395 233382; woodburypark.co.uk

BORINGDON HALL

With its four poster beds (one of them dating back to 1740), magnificent stone fireplaces and freestanding baths, it’s hard to think of many places more knee-weakeningly romantic than historic Boringdon Hall (from the Saxon ‘BurthY-Don’ meaning ‘enchanted place on the hill.’).

Luxury spa, too. Go on, whisk someone off their feet. w www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 35

S TAY C AT I O N S

DAYTRIPPERS

We asked Exeter BID how to be a tourist in your own town CRAFTING A staycation has the added benefit of knowing your holiday destination like the back of your hand, so you can put your energies into learning something new.

Exeter Phoenix has a huge range of arts and crafts courses to try, from lampshade-making to art tasters and photography to life drawing. Also, don’t forget the Double Elephant Print Workshop located in the basement of Exeter Phoenix for screen printing courses.

A family room at The Pig

Double rooms from around £129 per night.

Boringdon Hall, Plymouth PL7 4DP; 01752 344455; boringdonhall.co.uk

LONGLANDS

Dreaming ahead to a cosy family half term or Easter? Lanterns, woodburners, board games…

Few places do the safari lodges thing better than this esteemed glamping destination in a private valley surrounded by streams and woods.

Re-opens March.

Lodges from around £625 for four nights (sleeps up to 6 people).

Longlands, Coulsworthy, Combe Martin EX34 0PD; 01271 882004; longlandsdevon.co.uk

ST ENODOC HOTEL

Under two hours’ drive from Exeter is the everfashionable Cornish seaside town of St Enodoc.

Foodies shouldn’t hesitate to make the journey: Nathan Outlaw has a hand in the renowned restaurant. The 16 double rooms and four suites are decked out New England-style with touches of bright colour, original paintings and, in many cases, with sublime estuary views. NB: closed for a light refurb until 25 January.

Double rooms from around £170.

St Enodoc Hotel, Rock, Cornwall, PL27 6LA; 01208 863394; enodoc-hotel.co.uk

Find more nearby weekend getaways and winter offers at Devon Hotels & Restaurants Association: devonhotels.com 36 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SIGHTSEEING Ahh, those clear, crisp January days. Make the most of winter sun to discover the city’s landmarks.

Try a Red Coat Guided Tour for hidden secrets – and you thought you knew everything there was to know about your city? From the street that inspired JK Rowling to what has been known as the narrowest street in the world – you don’t want to meet someone half way!

– where the witches hung out, where the Romans hung out and the how much the city has changed.

Don’t miss the RAMM. SHOPPING So, we all know that Exeter has undergone something of a

transformation in the past 10 years with great swathes of our city receiving a tidy-up or complete redevelopment à la Princesshay. When it comes to retail therapy, Exeter delivers!

Now, we love a High Street retailer as much as the next person, but a staycation shopping trip really isn’t complete without an explore of Exeter’s brilliant boutiques. Pick up a city map and promise yourself you’ll go that little bit further down the High Street or up that cobbled bit you’ve not investigated properly yet. It’s your mission, should you accept it!

FAMILY FUN As well as the workshops, courses, exhibitions, theatre, films, dance and er, yoga readily available to Exeter’s city slicker families, you may not yet have explored the world of medieval plumbing beneath your feet. Book yourself onto a tour, they are suitable for children aged five years and above – and in January don’t miss 2 for 1 on tickets for Exeter residents living in the EX1-EX5 postcode areas!

Make room in your itinerary for the interpretation centre which has interactive

displays, a talking medieval man, high-speed video of the passages, a full-size model of the passages and artefacts discovered during a recent archaeological dig.

ENTERTAINMENT Scratch the surface and Exeter has an awful lot going on. Theatre, live music, cinema, events, comedy, film festivals, arts and crafts classes and workshops abound.

A culture vulture can be very happy in Exeter!

Don’t miss…

• Warren Miller’s Ski Film Tour at Exeter Corn Exchange (11 Jan) • An informal concert

by Exeter Recorder Orchestra at Exeter Cathedral (14 Jan) • The Circus of Horrors at Exeter Corn Exchange (15 Jan) • The Bike Scratch Night at The Bike Shed EXETER TRAILS Do you know about Exeter Trails? There are some seriously beautiful maps of the city on the website which can be downloaded for free. Each is handdrawn and themed, helping you to discover delicious foodie places, cool cafés with seriously good coffee, antiques, boutiques, craft and new pursuits. It’s a gem!

Take in a concert at Exeter Phoenix

Antique & Modern Furniture Repairs French Polishing Staircases and Handrails Upholstery Piano Restoration

Unit 8, Bakers Yard, Alphinbrook Road, Exeter EX2 8RG 01392 275338 | workshop@parkhouserestorers.co.uk

www.parkhouserestorers.co.uk

Art/craft/music/theatre/more

SNAPSHOTS OF EXETER’S CULTURAL LIFE

Royal visit to Napoleon III illuminations at the Hotel de Ville 23 August 1855, by Adolphe Jean Baptiste Bayot b1810. Royal Collection © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2016

RED CARPET TREATMENT

Believe it or not, relationships between Europe and Britain were once even more fractious than they are today.

From the Norman conquests on, England and France spent centuries scrapping, until the Anglo-led coalition trounced Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. So we can imagine how trepidatious little Queen Victoria must have felt when she crossed the Channel in August 1855, becoming the first reigning British monarch to visit Paris in over 400 years.

Looking at the 44 watercolours on display at RAMM, commissioned by Victoria to commemorate the trip, you can see how her host, Napoleon III – nephew of England’s great enemy – rolled out the red carpet big-style. Harmony between the two countries and, eventually, the Entente Cordiale followed. Oh, those charming Frenchmen...

Queen Victoria in Paris: Watercolours from the Royal Collection runs until Sunday 23 April 2017 at RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; 01392 265858; exeter.gov.uk/ramm

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 39

6 January – 6 February

Kirill Karabits conducts the BSO on 19 Jan; Joana Serrat performs at Exeter Phoenix on 26 January; Exeter Northcott welcomes Miles Jupp on 10-11 January

Art UNTIL 8 JANUARY

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 UNTIL 16 APRIL

HIROSHIGE’S JAPAN: STATIONS OF THE TOKAIDO ROAD Utagawa Hiroshige’s woodblock prints of Japan were sold cheaply in their thousands to 19th century armchair travellers and have won fans and imitators in artists from Vincent Van Gogh to Julian Opie.

These 21 landscape prints from the series that made his name have been selected from the

Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, and capture a tranquility and beauty sure to trigger your own wanderlust.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; exeter.gov.uk/ramm 14 JANUARY-5 MARCH

GET FRESH See Spotlight, page 9.

Devon Guild, Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey; crafts.org.uk

Theatre, Comedy & Dance UNTIL 7 JANUARY

BENEATH THE BLIZZARD Fast forward to the near-future and venture underground to meet a gang of singing, dancing rogues and rebels living in the cellars beneath Exeter. As snow and ice transform the city above, they face a perilous quest…

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

14 JANUARY-25 FEBRUARY

SOUTH WEST ART ACADEMY WINTER EXHIBITION New paintings, photographs, prints and ceramics from Academy artists, including established names such as David Brooke and Alan Cotton.

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

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

10 JANUARY

THE GHOST OF MR DICKENS World premiere of a new play set aboard the SS Cuba, bound for America in 1867, upon which Charles Dickens is plagued by visions and ghosts.

Cygnet Theatre, Friars Gate, Exeter; 01392 277189; cygnettheatre.co.uk

10-11 JANUARY

MILES JUPP: SONGS OF FREEDOM Better known to parents as Professor Plum from Balamory and to Radio 4 listeners as host of The News Quiz, Miles Jupp is also a seasoned stand-up with impeccable manners yet a surprisingly sharp edge at times. Current tour, the ironically-titled Songs Of Freedom – he confesses his problems are all of the ‘first-world’ variety – sees him tackle such issues as diverse as hot tubs, WHSmith, touchscreens, Duchy Originals, and hipsters and their “cocktails in jars”.

Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; exeternorthcott.co.uk 12 JANUARY

YOUNG MEN Feature-length dance film paying tribute to the dead soldiers of World War One, shot on location in Northern France featuring dancers from BalletBoyz

W H AT ’ S O N

ARTS

Curtain twitching and conspiracy in Fish Eye at Bike Shed Theatre, 31 Jan-11 Feb.

dance company. Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; exeternorthcott.co.uk 17-18 JANUARY

OUT OF THE ASHES The story of a young girl’s experiences on her family farm in Devon, during the outbreak of foot and mouth disease across the UK. Based on the novel by award-winning writer Michael Morpurgo.

Bike Shed Theatre, Fore Street, Exeter; bikeshedtheatre.co.uk 19 JANUARY

PAINTBOX JANE Musical theatre from the highlyrated Mike and Kate Westbrook, celebrating the art of French painter Raoul Dufy.

Bike Shed Theatre, Fore Street, Exeter; bikeshedtheatre.co.uk 21-22 JANUARY

THE UGLY DUCKLING & OTHER TALES Retelling of the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, for ages 3-7, from Devon-based theatrical duo Above Bounds.

Bike Shed Theatre, Fore Street,

Exeter; bikeshedtheatre.co.uk 26-28 JANUARY

DICK WHITTINGTON & HIS MAGIC CAT Popular village panto, in which hero Dick leaves ‘Broadclania’ to seek his fortune in that there London.

Victory Hall, Broadclyst, Exeter; ticketsource.co.uk/broadclyst 28 JANUARY

FEEDING THE DARKNESS Immersive performance exploring state-sanctioned torture.

Cygnet Theatre, Friars Gate, Exeter; cygnettheatre.co.uk

Cygnet Theatre, Friars Gate, Exeter; cygnettheatre.co.uk; & Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Rd, Exeter; barnfieldtheatre.org.uk

Music & Opera 19 JANUARY

BSO: HEART & SOUL Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra performs Elgar’s Violin Concerto (with violinist Guy Braunstein) and Rachmaninov’s Symphony No. 3, conducted by Kirill Karabits.

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

FISH EYE New show from the ace Theatre Alibi about nosy neighbours, featuring original live music and film projection. Ages 14+.

Bike Shed Theatre, Fore Street, Exeter; bikeshedtheatre.co.uk 3, 6 & 9 FEBRUARY

THE BREXIT CLUB See Spotlight, page 9.

25 JANUARY

STEVE KNIGHTLEY Solo show from the songwriting force behind Show of Hands.

Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; exeterphoenix.org.uk 26 JANUARY

JOANA SERRAT Catalonian singer NME has compared to Joanna Newsom and Lambchop, and Lauren Laverne thinks is “amazing”.

Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; exeterphoenix.org.uk 29 JANUARY

22 JANUARY 31 JANUARY-11 FEBRUARY

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

JIM MORAY Multi-award-winning folk musician. See also Spotlight, page 10.

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

GRATEFUL DEAD The current incarnation of the legendary San Francisco band, includes keyboard player Tom Constantine, Mark Karen, and members of Jefferson Starship.

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

24 JANUARY

BEANS ON TOAST Quick-witted and unpredictable modern folk troubadour.

Support from Rapha Ghetti.

2 FEBRUARY

BSO: KISSED BY A ROSE Lovestruck works by Berlioz, Mozart and R Strauss from w

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ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

Tony Hawks hits Budleigh on 28 January; see work by Marieke Ringle at Devon Guild; The Ugly Duckling & Other Tales is the Bike Shed Theatre 21-22 January

the formidable Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.

The Great Hall, University of Exeter, Streatham Drive, Exeter; bsolive.com 2 FEBRUARY

JO HARMAN British blues singer who has toured with Patti Smith, Joan Baez and Van Morrison. Huey Morgan’s a big fan.

Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; exeterphoenix.org.uk 3 FEBRUARY

DUB PISTOLS Return of Barry Unsworth’s dub/ rap/jungle/dancehall vagabonds.

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

Other Events UNTIL 7 JANUARY

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 7 JANUARY

WASSAILING WALK Join in an ancient countryside tradition with a walk to bless the trees and encourage a new harvest. 10am.

Younghayes Centre, Cranbrook; wildeastdevon.co.uk 12 & 18 JANUARY

HELP THE HEATH Enjoy the local countryside and feel strongly about keeping it beautiful? You can fill your lungs with fresh air and help the environment by joining in one (or both) of two working parties on Trinity Hill Nature Reserve, near Axminster, in January. East Devon Conservation volunteers invite you to join them on Thursday 12 January, 10am to 3pm, and Wednesday 18 January, 10am to 4pm, to help restore the heathland of Trinity Hill; on the latter date you’ll be clearing

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

scrub and rhododendrons to make way for the ponies to finish the job.

Trinity Hill Nature Reserve, nr Axminster; wildeastdevon.co.uk 12 & 28 JANUARY

WHAT’S THAT BIRD? Learn how to identify birds with an experienced guide. 11am-1pm.

Seaton Wetlands; wildeastdevon.co.uk 25 JANUARY

CYBER SECURITY TRAINING Devon & Cornwall Police and Devon Communities Together explain cyber threats and online

fraud; all local businesses and organisations welcome.

First Floor, 3 & 4 Cranmere Court, Lustleigh Close, Matford Business Park, Exeter EX2 8PW; 01392 248919 or info@devoncommunities.org.uk 28 JANUARY

AN EVENING WITH TONY HAWKS The local comedian discusses country life, and his book Once Upon A Time In The West Country, to raise funds for Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival 2017.

Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton; budlitfest.org.uk

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

OUT NOW

@TESSREAD #THECONTENTEDLITTLEHUSBAND

“Sunday lunch at Tea on the Green in Cathedral Close was magnificent (and inexpensive)” (The Times , 20.8.2016)

“The best omelette I have eaten, and I am 72!”

(Trip Advisor)

“Both (breakfasts) are great value but the Ulster Fry, for £1 extra, was amazing” (Trip Advisor)

“A perfect example of modern, traditional cooking” (Exeter Living)

2 Cathedral Close, Exeter, EX1 1EZ. Tel: 01392 276913 | Email: green.tea@zen.co.uk | www.teaonthegreen.com Open Monday to Saturday 8am - 6pm, Sundays 9am - 5pm. And evenings for private functions.

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

TO THE MANOR

FARE THAT CARES The head chef at Green Tree Court nursing home on the outskirts of Exeter has just scooped a national award for his culinary creations.

Tim Ware – previously senior chef de partie at the Jack in the Green and then head chef at the Diggers Rest – was named Chef of the Year at the 18th consecutive National Care Awards, an annual event that celebrates the very best people in the long-term care sector.

Says Helen Rushton, Green Tree Court home director: “When

you think of care home food, you generally don’t picture exceptional dishes that could be served up in a five-star restaurant, but daily that’s what we offer our residents at Green Tree Court.

“Tim is very passionate about cooking and is always creating new and exciting dishes for our residents.”

Tim’s award-winning menu included beef bourguignon and roast pumpkin cheesecake served with Devon mead and organic oats (above).

Michael Caines has announced two new appointments to the team at Lympstone Manor, his new hotel/restaurant venture launching in spring 2017.

Scott Andrews will join as general manager from the Michelin-starred The Atlantic Hotel and Ocean Restaurant in Jersey. Coming on board as group executive chef is Tom Hine, who’s been executive chef at Michael Caines at Abode Chester, and later at The Coach House by Michael Caines.

“I am delighted to welcome Scott Andrews and Tom Hine to this exciting new venture,” says Michael. “Their passion and enthusiasm for the project is fantastic, and I trust that guests will love both the personal service that Scott brings and the innovative dishes that Tom and I will be creating.’

For more: lympstonemanor.co.uk

For more: newcrosshealthcare.com

THE APPRENTICE Queen St Dining restaurant The Terrace has welcomed its newest recruit, apprentice Chelsea Cross (below). The 19-year-old is the first apprentice of the Queen Street Dining Academy, a collaboration

between Exeter College and Queen St. Dining – and will be working under head chef, Jack Alden, who also trained at Exeter College. Says Chelsea: “I was really interested in The Terrace when I heard it was opening, it sounded like somewhere you could be really creative and I love the fact that everything is local.”

Adds Lisa Shepherd of The Terrace: “Jack and Chelsea work really well together in the kitchen and Jack’s calm and collected approach makes him a fantastic mentor – they both bring a lot to the company and we’re delighted that we’re able to provide this opportunity for Chelsea.”

Tom Hine For more: theterraceexeter.com

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

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

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

Jason Coward 01225 475800

RECIPE

FOOD

CHOP CHOP! Eating clean for January, but can't face any more rocket? This salad from Exeter's THE TINY MARMALADE is equal parts healthy and hearty

Potato, apple, quail egg, caper and anchovy salad

V

(Serves 4)

irtuous but filling, this is a seriously snazzed-up potato salad, with so much crunchy salad veg thrown in you can eat a bowl of it without feeling like you’ve committed a criminal act. It also makes a fine accompaniment to cold meats or fish.

“A classic with a twist,” is how Exeter-based food blogger/preserve maker Paloma Hermoso of Tiny Marmalade describes it.

Ingredients: For the salad: 4/5 medium-sized potatoes 2 apples 1 red pepper 1 yellow pepper A bunch of spring onions 2 tbsp capers 50g anchovy fillets 12 quail eggs Salt and pepper to taste Fresh parsley For the mayonnaise: 1 large egg 1/2 tsp fresh lemon juice Salt to taste Sunflower oil, as needed

Method: 1. Gently boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain well and leave to cool slightly.

2. In a separate saucepan, boil the quail eggs for 5 minutes. Peel and set aside.

3. Chop the apples, peppers and spring onions finely and put in a large salad bowl.

4. Peel the potatoes, cut into chunks and add to the mixture.

5. To make the mayonnaise, combine the egg with the lemon and salt in the container of a hand blender. Set the blender on medium speed and gradually drizzle in the oil while it runs, without

moving the blender. When the mixture starts to thicken, move the blender very slowly until the mayo has the consistency you wish.

6. Add enough mayonnaise to bind.

Stir in the finely chopped parsley.

Mix together gently so that all the ingredients are thoroughly coated with the mayo, then add salt and pepper to taste.

7. Finally, top with the anchovy fillets and quail eggs.

tinymarmalade.blogspot.co.uk thetinymarmalade.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 49

Elizabeth Ann of Exeter

SALE NOW ON!

GLORIOUS GREENHOUSES Alton, Robinsons and Elite Greenhouses Available. Order now in time for Spring

Visit us at HAVEN CONSERVATORIES, St Bridget Nurseries, Old Rydon Lane, Exeter, EX2 7JU One of the largest show sites in Devon for Greenhouses, Summerhouses, Garages, Sheds and Conservatory Furniture

01392 876187 | www.havenconservatories.co.uk

Glass & Glazing Federation Member

Large selection of HB loafers and court shoes. Lisa Kay occasion shoes and boots. La Ross and Franco Russo handmade Italian evening and day boots. Van Dal. Cefalu colourful Spanish shoes and much much more.

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

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

Fashion/gifts/stores/more

THE FLAME GAME

You know when you’re all toasty by the woodburner – glass of merlot in one hand, TV remote in the other – and then you realise you have to stand up, and go into the kitchen to check your hearty casserole isn’t burning? Annoying, right?

That’s why we love this Dartmoor Baker stove from local company Dean Forge – it has an integral oven above the fire box, upon which you can cook, bake or warm your victuals without leaving the hearthside. If it contained a dishwasher for afterwards we’d love it even more…

The Dartmoor Baker W5, £1,350 (standard), £1,453 (multifuel); deanforge.co.uk

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Woodforde’s is the most extraordinary and delightful shop we’ve visited in ages

WOODFORDE’S PERFUMERY

ANNA BRITTEN gets a whiff of Napoleon, Marie-Antoinette and Kate Middleton at the extraordinary Sidmouth fragrance boutique Photo s by E M M A SOL L E Y

SPECIAL SHOPS

Opposite: Le Roi Empereur and other scents made for Napoleon Bonaparte Above: you’ll find the shop tucked away opposite Sidmouth Parish Church Below: Grossmith perfumes have been known to make elderly customers weep

W

e have smelled Napoleon. And now it all makes sense: the empirebuilding prowess, the irresistibility to women... His signature scent, Le Roi Empereur, created for him by his perfumers Rancé in the late 18th century, is one of the most attractively masculine aromas ever to grace our nostrils – whiffing of musk, orange, leather and coups d’état. “You’d fall in love with any man wearing that,” notes photographer Emma.

Le Roi Empereur still made today, unchanged, by the same firm. But you definitely won’t find it in Boots; in fact, the only stockist within hundreds of miles of us is Woodforde’s Perfumery in Sidmouth, one of only four specialist, artisan perfume shops in the UK. You haven’t heard of the place? Neither had we. Which is surprising, because Woodforde’s is the most extraordinary and delightful shop we’ve visited in ages.

Along with Napoleon’s fragrance, it also sells those created for his main squeeze, Josephine, and for Marie-Antoinette – who handed a vial of it over to a trusted friend before her execution; the formula was forensically recreated four years ago and is known as Black Jade – along with

SHOPPING

other exclusive, historic brands creating small batches with 100% natural ingredients.

Owners Jon and Jane Brewer, who also live on the Grade II-listed premises, used to be corporate credit risk analysts. “I woke up one morning,” remembers Jon, “and said, ‘I don’t want to look at balance sheets any more – let’s go and do something else.’”

That evening, after a bottle of wine, “this was the hallucination we basically dreamt up.

“If you go to a department store every fragrance house there is a dress designer: Chanel, Christian Dior, Tom Ford… Why would you go to a dress designer to buy perfume? Why wouldn’t you go to a perfumer? These – ” he says, indicating his range of stock – “are the world’s top perfumers.”

Jon is wonderfully scathing about mainstream perfumes: “It’s a sausage machine of big brands spending big money on advertising. The tragedy with that is, if you spend £50 million on advertising that’s £50 million you’re not spending on ingredients. So what you end up with is top high street brands where’s there’s 20 pence worth of synthetic ingredients in there.

The same stuff they put in toilet cleaners.

“We’ve got real perfumes, using real ingredients.”

To be precise, 130 of them for women and about 70 for men, from venerable perfume w www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 53

SHOPPING

SPECIAL SHOPS

The shop feels like an old-fashioned apothecary, thanks to the the careful interior design of Jon and Jane (pictured top right)

houses such as Annick Goutal, Antonio Alessandria, Enzo Torre, Pascal Rolland, Serge Lutens and Illuminum, whose divine White Gardenia Petals a certain Kate Middleton wore on her wedding day.

For several of these brands, Woodforde’s is the only UK stockist, because, says Jon, “no-one else is bothered”.

Which is strange, really, when you consider that prices start at £80, and about 50 fragrances come in at under £100. Comparable with Jon’s hated high street “synthetic rubbish”, in other words, yet a thousand times better in every way.

Half the bottles cost between £150-£300.

Customers are given extensive help to pick their perfect perfume, and are encouraged to roadtest a shortlist by wearing them around Sidmouth for an hour or two. (It’s true, by the way, that scents smell different on different people – apparently it’s all to do with diet).

Our sense of smell, of course, triggers memory.

One elderly customer recognised Phul-Nana by 19th century English perfumers Grosssmith as being the very scent her mother used to dab on before going to the opera. On sniffing it again in Woodforde’s, she burst into tears.

We feel weirdly emotional, too. In our coat pocket we still, weeks later, carry around fistfuls of the card strips on which Jon and Jane sprayed various magical aromas. Throwing them away seems wrong. Instead, we throw things at the TV when that awful J’Adore advert comes on…

Woodforde’s Perfumery, 11 Church Street, Sidmouth EX10 8LY; 01395 577777; woodfordes-perfumery.co.uk

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CUSTOMERS ARE GIVEN EXTENSIVE HELP TO PICK THEIR PERFECT PERFUME

MOTORING

CAR REVIEW

NEED for SPEED Earning its ‘everyday supercar’ stripes, the Audi R8 is a sophisticated and safe little number

By DAV I D F L AT M A N

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T

he lovely chaps at Audi did their very best to show me every inch and every control inside the new R8 V10 when I went to collect the keys, but my childishness eventually overcame their professionalism. It was their fault, though. They wanted to teach me how to use the sat nav and the Bluetooth, but they did so having already started the engine to let me hear the exhaust note. Too late. Just give me the keys and let me loose.

I’ve no doubt that they said some very useful things and that, had I changed a lifetime’s habit and listened properly, I might have been rewarded further by the experience, but I was gone to the noise. I think they were still talking as I pulled gingerly out of the car park, but who knows.

The thing with an Audi R8, they say, is that one can reasonably use it as an everyday vehicle. Well, let’s talk about that for a minute. Without even driving the thing, it’s clear that this excruciatingly lustful object isn’t going to be much good at transporting labradors, popping to the tip, or doing the big shop at Sainsbury’s. Sure, it might be easy enough to operate and manoeuvre, but even my Land Rover’s boot heaves at my appetite.

CAR REVIEW

MORE POWERFUL

THAN VLADIMIR PUTIN

And the only people willing to get dog hair in an R8’s cockpit by letting Fido ride shotgun are rappers, who don’t count.

As it happens, it is an utter cinch to drive about the place. It’s small enough to whack into the tiniest car park without a worry, the double clutch gearbox removing the need for a third pedal and, despite being more powerful than Vladimir Putin, its docility around town at low speeds is genuinely granny-friendly. In fact, it was so docile that I began to wonder whether or not it would produce the goods once the roads freed up and the opportunity came to (safely) kick it in the guts.

It rapidly transpired that my worries were somewhat misplaced. Now, I am lucky enough to have driven many fast cars over the years. I’ve gone quickly in Porsches, Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and even a £1.6m Pagani in rural Italy. However – and I say this with no hint of hyperbole – nothing has ever felt as real-world quick as this.

By ‘real-world’, I mean country roads in the Vale of Glamorgan, dual carriageways in Surrey and A-roads in the Midlands. I like my children and didn’t want to die in a horrible car accident, so I wasn’t an idiot, but I did, being totally honest, boot the thing when it felt safe to do so. And sweet Jesus. This car is rabidly, breathtakingly accelerative. It is so fast that speed ceases to be the main event, giving way in the driver’s mind to the sheer technological expertise that prevents something so ballistic ever feeling ragged or lethal. It just feels sorted. Missile-quick, but safe.

This planted feeling is doubtless to do with Audi’s famous Quattro four-wheel drive system,

MOTORING

and this is an interesting conversation in itself.

So many car enthusiasts bemoan anything that isn’t rear-wheel drive, declaring it impure, and ultimately too helpful. But I’m not down with this. I can drive a bit, but I’m not a racing driver and I’m on public roads with other non-racing drivers. I don’t want to power-slide around Powderham, or kick the back out in Buckfastleigh.

I want to feel safe, to sit somewhere beautiful, to love the accompanying soundtrack (oh god, that soundtrack), and go quickly for fun when I can.

This R8 V10 is a masterpiece because it delivers all of these wants. Something this comprehensively engineered ought surely to feel mechanical and unengaging, but nope. It can chill out when you want it to, for sure, but when one feels the urge, this car can take its driver somewhere otherworldly. And it can do it any time, any place.

Looks are subjective, of course, but I happen to think this car looks close to perfect (a bit more mud would complete the aesthetic), but its capability, I think, cannot be argued. Built like a tank, as light as a feather, comfortable, supersonically quick, tactile and adjustable on the limit, with a bark more penetrative than the local hardnut’s Rottweiler, this is a seminal piece of equipment.

You should get one. Or, if you can’t, just pretend you might and take it for a test drive. You’ll never forget it. Don’t forget to listen to all the sat nav instructions, though. Ruddy useful, all that.

More info: Marshall Audi of Exeter, Denbury Court, Marsh Barton, Exeter EX2 8NB 01392 338057; audi.co.uk

AT A GLANCE Audi R8 V10 Prices From £119,500 on-the-road Under the bonnet 532bph, naturally aspirated 5.2 V10 petrol engine Performance Punchy, doing 0-62mph in 3.5 seconds and topping out at 198mph

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CONTEMPORARY DENTAL AND FACIAL CLINIC For more than 20 years, Contemporary Dental has Pioneered Private Dentistry in Exeter...

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Come to the First Private Practice in the best City in the Southwest!

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Just call us today on 01392 490949, or book on-line at www.contemporarydental.co.uk

IV Sedation available for anxious patients contemporary dental Dr Bob Brazenall BDS MFGDP(UK) 14 Queen’s Terrace, Exeter, Devon EX4 4HR • 01392 49 09 49 • email: care@contemporarydental.co.uk

www.contemporarydental.co.uk

0% Finance Monthly payment plans

H E A LT H A N D BEAUTY

Energy Hair holds a customer feedback forum

Before

After

ENERGY RATING

I

FRAN MCELHONE enjoys some me-time at the Darts Farm-based hair salon

’ll be honest with you; I’m not really a hair-y person. A tomboy at heart, I have a sporadic, lovehate relationship with hair salons; on the one hand, I do rather like the aftermath of freshly washed, trimmed locks, and the hour of me-time (especially these days – as a working mum, these lone hours are a rare commodity). On the other, I feel a bit awkward because I find it all a bit confusing; I never know which way round the robe goes, whether it’s OK to close your eyes just a little during the hair wash head massage, or know what to say to all the questions, like, ‘How would you like your hair blow-dried?’

But all of those woes drifted away when I wandered into Energy Hair and was greeted by an aroma as sweet as a bag of candies, and the lovely Ellie. Having put me at ease with her bubbly smile and agreeing to take

I WAS GREETED

BY AN AROMA AS SWEET AS A BAG OF CANDIES

my embarrassing ‘before’ picture, she was happy to analyse what on earth to do with my tresses – which can’t remember the last time they saw a pair of scissors – and advise on a plan of action. Naturally blond, the only time I’ve ever added colour was in my rebellious 17th year when I turned it pillar box red. So, colour aside, I took all of Ellie’s advice: lop a couple of inches off which will thicken my hair up, cut it blunt but add a slightly long layer to give it bounce, and take the ends of the fringe long. And, have my hair blow-dried with a curl.

Founded and run by Nathan Plumridge, Energy Hair used to live on Topsham Road, but relocated to Dart’s Farm five years ago.

The salon, which uses Kérastase Paris and Shu Uemura products, celebrated its 18th birthday in the summer and is gearing up for a refurb in the new year which will involve a re-jigging of the space to fit in more seating to keep up with the growing business demand.

Energy’s clientele ranges from babies having their first haircuts, to their most mature client who is 92 and still looking fabulous. The team get asked to do all sorts of styles and colours, on men and women, some looking to experiment or express

themselves, with others simply enjoying their weekly blow-dries.

Ellie, who qualified with Energy eight years ago and has been there every since, was so good at the hair wash head massage (always such a treat, done to remove all that built-up tension), that I almost, almost, drifted off. And throughout the blow-dry, as my hair took shape, I suddenly thought, ‘Ooer, my hair-do looks a bit like the Duchess of Camridge’s!’ It doesn’t really get much better than that, does it?

But, what I’ll remember most about my lovely hour of me-time, as well as the feeling of fabulousness when me and my blow-dry bounced off, is what Ellie said her favourite thing about being a stylist is: “There are times when people will come in and it’s obvious that they’re feeling a bit low,” she told me mid-snip. “But then throughout the time you spend with them, you see them getting happier and happier, and then they walk out totally uplifted, with a smile on their faces! That’s my favourite thing about this job.”

Energy Hair, Darts Farm Village, Topsham, Exeter EX3 0QH; 01392 211817; energyhair.com

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Y U need 2 know about ‘Text Neck’ Every year, more and more people come to me with a condition known as text neck. You may have already suspected that looking down at your phone or tablet for hours on end is seriously bad for your health. You’re right. It is.

Phone Facts: • Over 4bn mobile device users worldwide • More than 1bn text messages sent each month • Typically we spend 2.7 hours daily looking at a mobile device Symptoms range from persistent discomfort to extreme pain, but in the very worst cases, text neck causes permanent damage, particularly among young people.

Symptoms: • Shooting pain • Headaches • Stiffness • Disc herniation (slipped disc) • Pinched nerve • Permanent spinal damage

For lasting pain relief and advice on how to keep your spine healthy, don’t delay. Text neck is a progressive condition that will only get worse without addressing the cause.

Did you know that tilting your head forward just 15 degrees increases the load on your spine by around 15 lbs. This is the same as more than doubling the weight of your head. At 45 degrees, it’s quadrupling it.

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.

Chiropractic treatment offers best results: • Chiropractic addresses the cause • Chiropractic uses no drugs or surgery • Our techniques are shown to enjoy a 90% success rate • The vast majority enjoy lasting relief

SPECIAL OFFER 50% off

Full Health History, Complete Spinal Exam, ALL NECESSARY X-RAYS and a Report of Findings Press delete on text neck while you still can. Call ROCK chiropractic on 01392 790499

Were you there?

Claudia and Tracey Bennett

SEEN!

Stephanie and Lulu Chiupek

AC ROS S E X E T ER , O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

WHAT A BEAUT Y

International rugby players Jack Nowell, Moray Low and Greg Holmes joined guests at a special Christmas event hosted by Mariam Badavi and her team of therapists at Purity Spa Boutique, located on Exeter’s Cathedral Green. Over 50 clients celebrated Purity Spa’s sixth Christmas anniversary with a glass of mulled wine and mince pies, and complimentary mini-treatments were carried out throughout the evening.

Purity Spa therapists Vicki, Lydia, Hannah, Zoe, Milly and Laura with Mariam Badavi, middle

Photos by Actual Colour

Glen King and Izzy Dimoline

Clients enjoy a complimentary manicure Moray Low, Mariam Badavi and Jack Nowell

Lara Philip, Emma Draper and Sam Lydon-Drake

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SOCIETY

PARIS, JE T’AIME The local art world elite joined public figures, including Ben Bradshaw MP, at the launch of the Queen Victoria in Paris exhibition at RAMM – see also page 39.

Rachel Sutton Robert Guyver, Norman Shiel and Margaret Guyver

Benedict Rubbra, Patricia and Alan Cotton with Leslie Moss

Percy Prowse, Ben Bradshaw MP and Bridget Shiel

Sam Tuke, Theresa-Mary Morton, Rosie Razzall, Jonathan Marsden, Camilla Hampshire and Martin Clayton

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Peter and Patricia Faulkner

Charles Lanning with Charlie and Julian Tagg

CONCERTED EFFORT Local charity Farms For City Children held a fundraising concert at Exeter Cathedral before Christmas. A narrated, musical story inspired by Christmas 1914 in the WW1 trenches, The Best Christmas Present In The World saw author Michael Morpurgo team up with actor Virginia McKenna before a VIP-packed audience.

Will Travers, Virginia McKenna, Maddie Rayner and Felicity Welsted

Will and Caz Morrison

Lord Lieutenant of Devon David Fursdon and Michael Morpurgo

Simon Gregory and Carol Hughes

FULL HOUSE Exeter-based Cornerstone Housing celebrated 90 years with a 1920s-themed party in their offices off Western Way. Guests included colleagues, tenants and staff along with past Board members and special guests who have helped define the housing association.

John Middleton, Barry Burt, Keki Cooper and Anne Seaborne

Paul Goodes

Catriona Yates, Debbie Holloway and Megan Lindsay-Bush

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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

PHOTO BY JAMES MILLAR

Naomi Hart, Rob Mulholland, Deborah Clark and Stuart Crewes

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

“MANY HAVE MADE THE JOURNEY TO EXETER FROM CALIFORNIA”

TOP OF THE AGENDA...

BOARD MASTERS Art Week Exeter gets serious as it unleashes a new board and reaches out to local businesses

A

fter the success of the first Art Week Exeter (AWE) last May, its steering group – local artists and curators Stuart Crewes and Naomi Hart, Rob Mulholland of Exeter-based marketing, communications and fundraising agency McQueenie Mulholland, and entrepreneur Deborah Clark of Southernhay House and Burgh Island Hotels – felt that a stronger organisational structure was needed to support and develop future AWEs. Art Week Exeter CIC (Community Interest Company) was duly created, combining business prowess and marketing aptitude with tight organisation and creative vision.

They’re now hard at it, working with a number of city venues and unusual spaces, partnering with cultural organisations, building a multi-site marketing campaign and developing a series of promotional and supporting engagements that will stretch across the

city and beyond.

Submissions are now open for artists, curators and producers, and the team have a number of inviting opportunities for businesses keen to be involved with sponsoring: from whole event to artwork-specific deals, and advertising and in-kind support (e.g. space or catering services) for artworks.

“Association with this event and the high-quality work on offer could be a part of your philanthropic or corporate social responsibility aims, or marketing and promotional opportunities,” say the AWE board.

Art Week Exeter 2017, which will run for nine days from 13–21 May, is set to include exhibitions, performances, an AWEsome Art Fair, art bar, art car boot sale, art train, art trails and tours and much more.

For more: artweekexeter.org.uk

Which company’s been impressing Silicon Valley?

Find out on page 67. . .

5k THE BIG NUMBER

People who enjoyed a Christmas party at Sandy Park Find out more on page 67

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BUSINESS INSIDER

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

HURRY! AWARDS NOMINATIONS CLOSE SOON You’ll have to hurry if you want to nominate your company for the Exeter Living Awards. The deadline is Friday 10 February!

Entries have been flowing in and are tracking some way above last year, although many companies leave it until the last moment. The finalists will be unveiled on the Grand Reveal Day of Tuesday 14 February.

As momentum builds towards the big night in April, the latest innovation for the Awards is to be a special Media Wall sponsored by Aquamarine Media. Social media posts at the Awards will be shown on a big screen sponsored by the search and social media marketing agency.

“These Awards are set to be our biggest and best yet,” said Steph Dodd, event manager of Exeter Living’s publisher MediaClash. “We’re very pleased to have such superb support from sponsors, and it’s great to see such a rush of nominations. Please don’t leave it too late: the deadline is 10 Feb at bang on midday!”

Finalists will be revealed at midday

You could be a winner!

Mike and Lara

TOOTHY GRINS on Tuesday 14 February by email, on the Awards site and on Twitter. All finalists are invited to a new event, the finalists’ and sponsors’ reception on 8 March at the Cathedral.

The Exeter Living Awards are on 6 April at the Great Hall, University of Exeter. First sponsors include Wilkinson Grant, Princesshay, Otter Brewery, Energy Hair, Cathedral Appointments and, now, Aquamarine Media.

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

The Exeter Dental Centre has been recognised with an award at one of the biggest celebrations in UK dentistry.

The state-of-the-art dental practice in Castle Street, which is open seven days a week, was awarded Highly Commended in the ‘Most Improved Practice’ category for the South at The Private Dentistry Awards 2016 at the Park Plaza Hotel in London.

Say Mike and Lara Hesketh: “We are delighted to be recognised on the national dentistry stage.

This is something that we have worked towards since buying the business in 2012 and is the first time we have entered. We are so proud of the business and team and this is the perfect reward for all the hard work and commitment shown by everyone.”

For more: exeterdentalcentre.co.uk

KITTED UP

The new futsal kit

Exeter City Football Club have kitted up future stars at Exeter College to celebrate both 15 years of partnership, and futsal becoming part of the college Sports Academy offer.

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The club’s long-established partnership with the college has gone from strength to strength in recent years and now sees 45 students on the men’s academy, 23 on the women’s academy, and 50 students combined taking part in the level two and three futsal Academy.

The new playing kit, provided by Exeter City and supported by Joma, allows for both the men’s and ladies teams to proudly display the partnership during training and at matches.

Futsal is a BTEC sport programme offered by Exeter City’s charity Football in the Community. It provides a unique

opportunity for 16 to 19 year-olds to complete either a level two or three BTEC qualification, while competing in a professional futsal league against other Football League clubs.

Throughout the programme, students earn qualifications that will help them gain employment in the sport and leisure industry, as well as training and competing in a professional futsal environment for one of the five Exeter City teams.

Chris Wall, Exeter College sports academy manager, says: “The partnership between the college and Exeter City has grown rapidly over the last few years; it is a testament to the effort and dedication shown from both organisations.”

For more: exetercityfc.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIDER

SOFTWARE CELL

Professor Philippe Young with a 3D model

Following its acquisition by Silicon Valley-based software firm Synopsys – the world’s 15th largest software firm – Exeter-based Simpleware plans to not only remain in the city but expand its team to meet growing demand.

The 3D image, data visualisation and analysis software business was founded in 2000 by Professor Philippe Young at the University of Exeter, and its products are used in a range of industries including medical, automotive, aerospace, and oil and gas.

Simpleware employs more than 30 staff, mainly in Exeter, but also overseas in the US, India and the Netherlands.

Says Professor Young: “We are also very pleased that we are able to remain here in Exeter and that I am able to continue my active role in the

business. Part of the reason behind the successful development of the company has been thanks to the attractive work-life balance the area offers, which has allowed us to retain a large proportion of our workforce. The University’s research facilities and the high-calibre professionals it produces have also been a huge driving factor.”

Adds Terry Ma of Synopsys: “We are impressed with the Simpleware team, and are very pleased to expand our footprint in Exeter. Many of the Synopsys team members have already made the journey to Exeter from our headquarters in Mountain View, California and we are keen to continue to build our R&D team in Exeter.”

For more: synopsys.com

EXETER CHIEFS NEWS Chris Bentley brings you the latest from inside Sandy Park An atmospheric Sandy Park

PHOTO BY @PPAUK

At the beginning of a New Year it is customary to remember what has gone and look to what is to come.

Without a doubt, 2016 was a landmark year for the Exeter Chiefs. The highlights of the 2015/16 season being the European quarterfinal appearance and the Premiership final at Twickenham. Having come so close on both fronts, the only silverware for the first half of the year was the A League title as the second string Braves took out the competition beating Northampton’s Wanderers in front of over 4,000 fans right here at Sandy Park.

The opening stanza of the 2016/17 season hasn’t quite hit the same heights to date but, with 15 international players in the squad, a lessening injury list and a spot in the top four very much in our hands, the expectation for a big run in is growing. Big home games against Wasps, Newcastle, Sale, Bristol and Northampton require the loyal tribe to pack the park and ensure the Chiefs do their thing!

Off the pitch, Sandy Park continues to affirm its reputation as a facility for the highest level of rugby with both the England U20 and 7s team due to frequent our pitch this year. First on the rank are the U20 team who will face their French equivalents on 4 February in what promises to be a great afternoon at Sandy Park; and we will screen the Scotland/Ireland and England/France senior games straight after the youngsters, providing a feast of international rugby.

Following later on in the year (15-16 July) we play host to the European GP 7s tournament, as the cream of Europe’s sevens teams come to compete for the third year on the bounce. As with the last few seasons, the growing event is shadowed by an elite and

amateur competition, meaning there is room for all to play or come and enjoy a cracking few days as there will be a rugby festival.

With Bournemouth having set the bar for rugby festivals the aspiration is to continue to grow our very own event with ‘fancy dress Saturday’, the interactive fan zone and a chance to see the Olympic silver medallists from Team GB (some of whom will be competing in the English team) all on the agenda.

Additionally, the conferencing arm of the business section continues to thrive on the back of a bumper Christmas party booking programme that saw well over 5,000 of us enjoy a king’s welcome and a sumptuous menu from executive chef Denis Turner and his team. This is carrying on in the New Year with our Question of Sport evening on 26 January.

Hosted by TV personality and favourite son of Exeter, Mark Tyler, the event sees

Olympians Jo Pavey and Giselle Ansley joined

by Chiefs Gareth Steenson and Julian Salvi alongside Exeter City footballer Lee Holmes and Somerset cricketer Lewis Gregory. With the last event having sold out well in advance, be sure to check the website for details of ticketing.

And finally, stonemason Anna Steinmetzer has ensured the Chiefs will be immortalised well beyond our times, having cast the iconic club badge in stone to adorn the walls of the east gable of the Cathedral. As part of the extensive work, the badge will be one of four new stones; the Chiefs head representing the City of Exeter.

Next up for the Chiefs at Sandy Park: 28 Jan – Wasps (Anglo Welsh Cup) 12 Feb – Wasps (Aviva Premiership) For more: exeterchiefs.co.uk

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BUSINESS INSIDER

ONE TO WATCH

JOANNE MANVILLE Joanne Manville Virtual Assistance

What was your first ever paid job?

My first ever paid job was a newspaper round, and I also did strawberry picking at a local farm in the summer. My first ‘proper’ job was as a sales assistant in Argos over Christmas, and I also worked at an amusement park over the school holidays.

Dib, dib, dib – dob, dob, dob!

How did you come to set up Joanne Manville Virtual Assistance?

I had worked for almost 10 years as an executive personal assistant, and whilst I loved the jobs that I had, I wanted to help more people and have a more varied day. Lots of people had said to me, ‘You could have your own business supporting people’ – and eventually I got brave and took that step!

Can you tell us a bit about what your work entails?

I provide admin support for the owners of small businesses. As a business grows, many business owners find that the day-to-day admin takes them away from what they love doing, so my role is to deal with all the things that they no longer have time to do, or don’t want to do, so they can spend their time to the benefit of their business. I get asked to do all sorts of tasks for all sorts of companies. I can be helping a client with emails and invoicing one minute, and arranging an event overseas the next. I’ve also helped people with CVs, trained them on PowerPoint and spent an afternoon making bunting for an event!

How have you spread the word about your business?

Mostly through networking, both locally and online. It’s really important to be visible and tell people what you do and make sure people know that you are there, as well as building relationships with other business owners. I’ve also been able to offer advice as well as benefiting from brainstorming ideas with others.

What’s the best bit of career advice you’ve ever been given?

‘Know your numbers’. Whether it is where your leads are coming from, what you are invoicing out, where you are spending your time or how you are performing against your targets. If you don’t know your numbers, you don’t know if what you are doing is working and whether you have a profitable business model.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I really enjoy seeing the impact that having support can have for a small business owner. Having someone to delegate to or brainstorm with can make a big difference and I thrive on seeing clients regain control and be able to spend more time doing the things that they enjoy, with 68 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

the peace of mind that the other stuff is getting done. I also enjoy running my own business and being in control of my own workflow.

What has been your greatest professional achievement to date?

Starting my business and reaching my first anniversary, which was in October. I was also a finalist in the Best Virtual Assistant Newcomer category for the national 2016 BeMyVA awards.

THESE

DAYS IT’S ONLY ME I

HAVE TO MAKE TEA FOR

What are some of the oddest matters you’ve ever had to resolve at work?

I do know one VA who was asked to find ‘50 really ugly extras’ for a video shoot with two days’ notice and another who had to fly to Australia to deliver a document!

I’ve not been asked to do anything too unusual (yet).

What are Exeter’s strengths as a place to work?

I’m really enjoying the recent increase in co-working spaces. I’ve worked from the Generator Hub in town, as well as Exeter Library and, more recently, I have joined Canopy, the co-working space at Exeter Science Park. It means that when you take a break, you have a choice of environment to enjoy, and someone to talk to! It’s also a great way of making new business contacts.

What are your favourite stress-busting strategies?

I enjoy going to the theatre (big fan of the Bike Shed) as well as meeting up with friends and enjoying the great outdoors. I’m also a Scout leader in my spare time.

What’s the one item in your workplace you can’t live without, and why (not including computer or phone)?

I’ll have to say the kettle, and these days it’s only me I have to make tea for, which for any PA is a dream!

What’s your motto for life?

Try and say ‘yes’ to everything – you never know what you might end up doing, and who you might end up meeting. It’s good to step out of your comfort zone every once in a while.

For more: joannemanville.co.uk

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PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

FIRE AND SMOKE FARM

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

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

This beautiful farmhouse gets KITTY KANE looking for her shinpads

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 71

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

L

ooking for a new family home and wish your children would show a teensy bit more interest in the whole process? Here’s a property that’s guaranteed to get them abandoning Pokémon Go and booking the removal van themselves.

The dramatically-named Fire And Smoke Farm, a stone farmhouse with an award-winning modern extension, sits in 48 acres. So far, so adult-pleasing. But it also has, wait for it, full-sized football and rugby pitches that were created for the vendor’s teenage sons and are so good that local teams have used them. Not just that, but there’s also a professional-style dugout complete with leather seats.

Not into footie or rugger? Never mind – there’s also all-weather cricket nets and, indoors, a golf simulator and gym. Not into sport at all? Easy: there’s a large cinema room too.

The sports-mad owners have, you see, lovingly remodeled and refurbished Fire and Smoke Farm over the course of 13 years, taking it from rundown wreck to the sort of luxury pile that sees high-spending buyers from far and wide helicoptering in to take a squizz.

Just up the coast from Sidmouth, near the village of Salcombe Regis, in a tranquil corner of the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the property sits at the end of a long gravel drive with masses of parking space. Those 48 private acres are mostly level grassland, in the centre of which the property just floats like a ship in a still, emerald sea: beyond the patio/terrace areas there’s no differentiation between ‘garden’ and ‘land’. Yet when civilisation calls, you’re just five miles 72 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Old meets new to showstopping effect in this luxury farmhouse

HOUSE NUMBERS

£1.8m Offers over

48 acres

5

bedrooms

3

bathrooms

1

award-winning extension

2

sports pitches

from Sidmouth and its many amenities and charms, and 28 miles from Exeter.

We’ve raved about the fun stuff, but don’t worry, grown-ups, your common-or-garden rooms are all present and correct, too: smart, contemporary kitchen/dining room, sitting/snooker room, five bedrooms (two of them with en suite), family bathroom, utility, study and snug.

Throughout, high quality, design-led 21st century stylings blend harmoniously with original, rustic details such exposed stone and timber beams. There isn’t a single room with which we can imagine you’ll want to play around.

An excellent extension on the corner by Exeter-based architects Barrie Simons & Associates houses some of these rooms. A far cry from your average ‘glass box’, it doesn’t only look incredible, but in 2010 scooped the LABC (Local Authority Building Control) Best Domestic Extension or Conversion award for its innovation, outstanding craftsmanship, sustainability, high levels of compliance with building regulations and so forth.

And it’s a real beauty – a trio of linked geometric forms, combining timber with crisp white render and lots of glass, and is connected to the original farmhouse by a fantastic, wide hall.

Outbuildings are plentiful, too: a stable block with paddocks, substantial garage, workshops and storage and all allow you to pursue your passions, be they horses, cars or large-scale sculpture.

Better find your shinpads and mouthguards because we’d pull off a dirty tackle to secure this…

Knight Frank, 19 Southernhay East, Exeter EX1 1QD; 01392 423111; knightfrank.co.uk

“Thinking of selling in 2017?”

“Over the festive break hundreds of people will have contemplated their next move. Contact us today for your free market appraisal to make sure your property is waiting for them in the New Year.”

Edward Khodabandehloo Head of City Sales 01392 976178 edward.khodabandehloo@knightfrank.com

Sold

Guide Price: £1,000,000

Streatham Rise, Exeter

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MOVE FASTER SELL WITH KNIGHT FRANK St Leonards, Exeter

Pennsylvania, Exeter

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Our understanding of the everchanging market enables us to price your property accurately.

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Call us now for a free market appraisal 19 Southernhay East Exeter, Devon EX1 1QD Exeter@knightfrank.com 01392 976178 @KFExeter KnightFrank.co.uk

St Leonards, Exeter

St Leonards, Exeter

Pennsylvania, Exeter

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Streatham Rise, Exeter

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St Leonards, Exeter

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@KFExeter KnightFrank.co.uk

St Leonards, Exeter

Streatham Rise, Exeter

Pennsylvania, Exeter

Residential Sales, Lettings & Property Management

Duryard - £475,000 4 Bed – 2 Bath A superb opportunity to purchase this extended detached family home with four double bedrooms, in an excellent position for access to Exeter University, the City Centre and Exeter St Davids Train Station. The house is located in a private no through road and has extensive parking on the driveway for several vehicles. Offering spacious accommodation throughout, the property comprises entrance hall, living room, open plan kitchen/dining room, conservatory, study, utility room, ground floor cloakroom, four double bedrooms, ensuite bathroom to the master bedroom, family bathroom, gas central heating and double glazing.

Outside is an enclosed rear garden, laid mostly to lawn with a raised timber decked seating area. A single garage and driveway are located to the front. Internal viewing is highly recommended.

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

Residential Sales, Lettings & Property Management

Exeter - £300,000 3 Bed – 1 Bath A beautifully presented three bedroom 1930’s semi detached home located in a quiet cul de sac within the popular residential area of St Loyes. The property is conveniently located for access to Ludwel Valley Park offering pleasant walks, well regarded local schools and transport links into the city centre. The accommodation is spacious and light throughout and comprises in brief entrance hall, bay fronted living room, open plan and modern recently fitted kitchen/diner, cloakroom and conservatory to the ground floor. Three good sized bedrooms and a family bathroom fitted with contemporary suite are situated to the first floor.

Features include gas central heating with recently fitted boiler and double glazing. Outside the property boasts generous front and rear gardens, driveway offering off road parking for three vehicles, car port and single garage.

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

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estate agents ★★★★★

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Please contact us on: 01392 256766 or 07723093133 Email: cleaning@cpmestateagents.co.uk or headoffice@cpmestateagents.co.uk

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

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EXETER LIVES

Q&A

Answer to Where Am I? (page 11): Window overlooking Cathedral, St Martin’s Church in Cathedral Close

S

arah Lacey here is in charge of music and events at Exeter’s swanky new flagship restaurant/ bar/club The Terrace. She’s also founded Loft Barbers Live Sessions, worked for Mama Stones Records and worked with various musical artistes.

You’ll also recognise her as the force behind the Breathe For Jo campaign. So that sort of makes her Exeter’s Simon Cowell – but with a heart.

Where do you call home and what makes it special?

I live just outside Exeter city centre. I have three gorgeous girls, Lottie (18) Bobby (14) and Lily (9) and four collie dogs, so my home is always full of kids, music, four-legged friends and complete chaos. I wouldn’t want it any other way.

What would be your dream booking for The Terrace?

Etta James – if she was still alive – and Aretha Franklin.

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

I will usually put on Miles Davis’ Kind Of Blue then pour myself a bucket of red wine.

What’s your karaoke song of choice?

I’m not a big fan of karaoke, however, when I was a kid my little sister Hetty and I used to do a truly terrible rendition of Elton John and George Michael’s Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me. What has been your proudest moment?

Kids give you countless proud mum moments!

Every time my eldest daughter Lottie gets on a stage and sings, I’m a mess! Other than that, creating the Breathe For Jo campaign for my beautiful best friend Jo Smith, and seeing the community come together to help, was really overwhelming for both of us. I was so proud to have pulled such kindness together on a national scale.

What’s your earliest childhood memory?

My parents had a donkey named Doogle, who lived in our garden. I came downstairs and found him in the kitchen once. I must have been five years old. He was the coolest donkey ever!

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

They would say, “Don’t go to Lacey’s house without the essentials: loo roll and wine!”

SARAH LACEY Donkeys, dogs and Miles Davis have all helped make the local music impresario the woman she is What issue, more than any other, makes you want to get up on a soapbox?

Cancer, the lack of education behind prevention rather than a cure. It makes me so mad!

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

I think now that The Terrace has opened, it’s a far more vibrant place; Exeter really needed an upmarket club. I think with the new Queen Street Dining development, The Quay and all the lovely street markets, Exeter is a really lovely, safe and welcoming place to live.

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Well, Jo and I have discussed this. We were on a sleeper train between New York and Arizona, we had been travelling for 10 days, and I think it came down to the obvious choices: Cameron Diaz played me and Jennifer Aniston played Jo. We had a giggle about that! We are still awaiting their calls.

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

Haldon Forest with the dogs.

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

The 1920s – so elegant. I want to own a speakeasy one day.

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Do you have any hidden interests?

I love visiting historic buildings. My father always had a keen interest in history, and as a child we were always visiting National Trust buildings. It’s definitely something that has resonated with me.

What’s your favourite indulgence?

Gin and tonic, and peanut butter and tomato sandwiches.

If you had a super power, what would it be?

To cure all disease.

Who was your last text from and what was it about?

It was from The Voice UK series one contestant Vince Freeman. He is performing for us and wanted to know if he needs to bring his own PA system. He also wanted to tell me he was bringing ‘Bongo Pete’ with him.... I’m excited about that!

We should let you get on now.... what are you doing after?

Calling Vince Freeman to find out who ‘Bongo Pete’ is!

theterraceexeter.com

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