Exeter Living - Issue 269 by MediaClash

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE Exeter’s latest foodie joint, see page 32; BELOW Oh-so pretty jugs, see page 16

ello Exeter! And...we’re back! Like many people up and down the country, we reluctantly downed pens and went on furlough in March as our magazine paused. And I must say, restarting back on the mag feels bloomin’ marvellous. As you may know, our big thing here at Exeter Living is to celebrate the city, to raise a toast to the many brilliant people and independent businesses that make this city such a thriving place. With the past few months being as challenging as they have been, we therefore couldn’t be prouder to be championing a plethora of new start-up businesses in this issue, as well as honouring some long-time city favourites; while also giving a big, heartfelt thank you to the people who have shown such generosity in the community. There is no doubt that things continue to be tough and that the road ahead is uncertain but it is abundantly clear that here in Exeter lies a community of people who are working tirelessly to get through this period with kindness and creativity, all to beneﬁt the city and its residents – and it’s our lucky job to shine a light on them. #ExeterTogether

HARRIET NOBLE Follow us on Twitter @ExeterLiving

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Issue 269/October 2020 COVER by Trevor Gilham

UPFRONT

6 SPOTLIGHT Inspiring news from all over town 9 JP HEDGE Welcome back to our amazing columnist!

FEATURES

10 NEW INDIES Who’d open a business in lockdown?

This punchy lot did

35 EDUCATION New term, new start 42 INTERIORS All the latest trends from the

local designers

SHOPPING

16 EDITOR’S CHOICE Autumn chic from

Exeter’s indies

THE ARTS

23 INTRO The must-see art exhibition this month 24 WHAT’S ON Loads of culture, plus half-term fun for

the kids

26 STREET ART A word with Exeter’s favourite artist

FOOD & DRINK

31 FOOD & DRINK NEWS A new fish deli, cookery

classes and a chocolate festival – we’re in

32 RESTAURANT Summer romance at Pura Vida

BUSINESS

51 EXETERWORKS Business movers and shakers

PROPERTY

59 PROPERTY NEWS Everyone wants to move to

Devon, and other stories

61 SHOWCASE Possibly the coolest pad in Exe

REGULARS

20 EXETER TOGETHER A word from Greg Ingham 66 EXETER LIVES DJ extraordinaire Paul Giblin

gets chatty

Editor Harriet Noble harriet.noble@mediaclash.co.uk Managing Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior Art Editor Andrew Richmond Graphic Design Megan Allison Cover Design Trevor Gilham Contributors JP Hedge Advertising manager Paula Miller paula.miller@mediaclash.co.uk Production/Distribution Manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Production Manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production Designer Gemma Scrine gemma. scrine@mediaclash.co.uk 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. 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, and Exeter. Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

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Everybody’s talking about…

ALL TOGETHER NOW

left: Exeter City Football Club fans are the best; below: Jamie Vittles, chief exec of CITY Community Trust

The impact of this pandemic has been that many have felt – or worried that others have felt – isolated and lonely; no easy problem to solve, especially during a national lockdown. But the Exeter community rallied forming a plethora of projects, reach-out programmes and collaborations to bring people together. Here are just two.

ockdown Blues is a project where members of the community were invited to share their creative responses to loneliness during lockdown, which then got turned into an online scrapbook. The result is a huge, and very touching, collection of poems, art, photos, videos, short bits of writing, and songs. This creative sharing space came about through a collaboration between academics Charlotte Jones, Frederick Cooper, Olly Clabburn, all at the Wellcome Centre for Cultures and Environments of Health at the University of Exeter, Exeter Phoenix, Devon Libraries and UNESCO Exeter city of Literature. “The project started as a way of letting people express how they’re feeling, primarily through writing or making art,” says Frederick. “We also wanted people to be able to see these and (hopefully) identify with them in some way, or realise that other people are going through similar things.” Anybody is welcome to send in their contributions. For more: www. lockdownblues.co.uk Darren Shaddick’s art shows people’s experiences

Standing tall, Cygnet Theatre

Charity

SAVE IT

Theatres are facing a very uncertain future at the moment; one such is Exeter’s Cygnet Theatre who is reaching out to the community with the launching of #SaveOurTheatres Crowdfunder as part of a national campaign, with backing from the Theatres Trust and its Ambassador Jude Law. Cygnet Theatre was created as a charity to train the next generation of repertory actors and bring communities together; it is a place to come together, to be entertained and to be inspired and has a legion of fans, notably Sir Ian McKellen who said after a visit to the theatre, “In future, when I am asked what an aspiring actor can do to advance their hopes of a career in live theatre, I shall recommend applying for a place at the Cygnet.” For more: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/save-cygnet-theatre

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econd up is health and wellbeing charity Exeter CITY Community Trust who have developed a unique programme designed for older people living in Exeter. The programme, called Tackling Loneliness Together, provides lots of opportunities for interaction, from telephone and ‘garden gate’ chats, to free activity packs and special Zoom sessions which offer sports talks, bakes and chat and even some beginners’ IT training. Of the activities on offer, one of the most special is the pen pals initiative. Youngsters in the city are being linked up with an older person to embrace letter writing. You can choose to write about anything you like, or you can join the Grecian pen pals which links older and younger fans of Exeter City Football Club. Already signed up to the programme is 22-yearold University of Exeter student Ellie Doherr. “When I read about this initiative it just appealed to me and I felt motivated to get involved,” she says. “If writing some letters could brighten someone’s day or just make a difference to a person who is isolated, it seems like a really lovely thing to do.” If you would like to be involved, please contact Jack Watts at jack.watts@ecfc.co.uk For more: www.exetercct.org

SPOTLIGHT Photography

An exhibition called Lockdown Legends has been launched to celebrate the local people who have shown particular kindness, courage, humanity, or ingenuity in the last few months. Launched by Exeter’s Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery (RAMM), alongside Liveable Exeter and Exeter City Council, members of the public were invited to nominate their Coronavirus champions, submitting both their stories and photographs to illustrate inspirational accounts of hard work, compassion and selﬂessness. Those nominated ranged from refuse collectors to face mask creators, fundraising heroes to taxi drivers-turned-delivery men, parents, grandparents, young people and many more. Lockdown Legends celebrates the resilience of the

Lockdown legend Mahi Ahmed

LOCKDOWN LEGENDS

people of Devon, showcasing those who have given so much during the Coronavirus crisis, helping some of Devon’s most vulnerable populations. It brings their stories together to be shared with everyone. Award-winning broadcaster and presenter Angela Rippon CBE was one of the panellists who reviewed these nominations. “There have been many uplifting stories about the heroic and selﬂess actions of individuals who have gone above and beyond to help others during this unprecedented time,” she says. “This exhibition is an opportunity to celebrate and honour them and provide those that have been supported, or seen the lives of others improved, a chance to thank those individuals.” The stories are available to view now on the RAMM website as well as at Exeter Guildhall, Exeter Library, Barnstaple Library and at Exeter Princesshay. For more: www.showcase.rammuseum.org.uk

Novelist Patrick Gale will be hanging out down at the Quay

Literature

SAY THE WORD

Literature Works has announced best-selling novelist Patrick Gale as the Quay Words Autumn 2020 writer-in-residence for their upcoming season of programmes. The theme of this season is ‘wellbeing’, which is at the heart of Exeter’s programme as a UNESCO City of Literature. Patrick’s works include his 2017 novel Man in an Orange Shirt which was screened by BBC2 as part of the Gay Britannia season and won an International Emmy for best miniseries. As part of his residence at Literature Works, Patrick will be hosting a series of events with other emerging writers, exploring the many positive impacts of reading and writing, while also looking at how mental health runs as a theme through his own writing. “I’m thrilled at the prospect of being writer-in-residence in such a stunning and atmospheric old building as the Custom House and of helping put together a series of public events there around the theme of wellbeing,” says Richard. “Now more than ever we need the healing power of reading and writing and I’m looking forward to roping in some old friends to help me spread the word.”

KEY DATES:

Wednesday 21 October, 6.30 - 8pm: ‘Reading and wellbeing’ with Ella Berthoud, hosted by Patrick Gale. Wednesday 11 November, 6.30 -7.30pm: Author event with Patrick Gale.

Exeter Custom House has recently reopened to the public and a small socially-distanced audience can attend the events in person. The events will be simultaneously broadcast live from Exeter Custom House, free of charge to an online audience.

Wednesday 18 November, 6.30 - 8pm: ‘Writing, creativity and therapy’ with Salley Vickers, hosted by Patrick Gale. Wednesday 2 December, 6.30 - 8pm: Quay Voices hosted by Patrick Gale. For more: literatureworks.org.uk

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OPINION JP HEDGE

Little wins

Despite the darkness of the last few months, JP has found solace in family, community heroes, and the odd unicorn

an you believe we stayed up at New Year to sing in 2020? What were we thinking? I imagine if most of us knew what this year had in store, we’d have banked the extra sleep instead. It has been an extraordinary time which will define our lives for a long time to come – mine included. Everyone will have made changes, sacrifices or altered behaviour in some considerable way. I think everyone’s efforts are worth reflecting and quietly acknowledging, even if it is done virtually on a conference call with a hand wash afterwards. It was only 18 months ago that you couldn’t move for Keep Calm and Carry On paraphernalia. It was a mantra that sat nicely, harmlessly, with all manner of

versions reproduced on tea cups and coasters. Looking back through the lens of 2020 – that wasn’t us. Not really. At best it was perhaps our grandparents, what they did, and what they helped shape for us. We claimed the coasters. Our keep calm and carry on days are right now – this very moment – and unfortunately we aren’t done yet. The calmness we are all looking for is probably better described as control. I don’t think there is a person in the city who hasn’t been out of their comfort zone at some stage recently. The certainty of Covid is that it is relentless. As colleagues try help the city recover and open up services that visitors and residents love, Covid couldn’t give two hoots about my optimism. Every time I think I understand this virus and

“When this is all over, we’ll properly mark how selﬂess people were”

create workarounds, it dashes best laid plans. So I spend a lot of time back to the starting block, trying to keep calm and carry on. I do this mostly from my twoyear-old’s nursery, surrounded by Peppa Pig, hedgehogs and unicorns, which is now my makeshift office. That situation got old quickly. In the middle of livelihoods being ruined and lives being lost, one of the coping mechanisms which has worked for me is trying to focus what I can control. Clearly it isn’t Covid. There have been positives this year. And if we can keep hold of those little things together with the best of the changes we have all made, we flip this to ensure Exeter is the amazing city we want it to be in the future. We could be living our legacy. Revaluating the undervalued role of retail workers, care and NHS, refuse workers has been a remarkable step I’d love to hang onto. It’s not perfect, but Exeter has seen huge movement around cycling, road closures and improvement to active travel due to the circumstances. I think we now all understand a bit better that we’re not immune to what Mother Nature has in store for us. That should pave the way better for the further sacrifices we need to make, but don’t always drive forward, around Net Zero and global warming. The likes of knowing your neighbours, actually speaking to them, spending more time with family and any children, valuing

exercise have all seen huge shifts. My wife has never exercised. It turns out all the government needed to do was restrict it to an hour and she exercised every day. I’ve already clocked where that method may also work well! In general though, once things that we take for granted are taken away, it does seem to focus the mind. Over the past few months I’ve seen colleagues shut down services and their careers to entirely focus on helping others through this. Faced with extraordinary financial difficulties and the world on its head the first thoughts of Exeter Chiefs, their charity and Tony Rowe was to help the city’s communities with a £100,000 pot. Despite the tragedy of Covid, there have been countless little wins like this. We are constantly capturing examples with things like Lockdown Legends. When this is all over, we’ll properly mark how selfless people were. There is more uncertainty ahead and Exeter will be doing a dance with Covid, to a lesser or greater degree, until we get a vaccine. I can say with certainty that for me this New Year’s Eve will be met with an early night and a quiet moment about just how amazing people in this city truly are. ■ Jon-Paul Hedge is a director at Exeter City Council where he currently looks after tourism, communications and culture. He is a former newspaper editor and lives in the city with his wife and two young children. www.exeter.gov.uk

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Richard and Sara, baby, boards and lots of smiles

When lockdown happened, Exeter people – entrepreneurial as ever – got busy. Professional ambitions and creative passions blossomed and, through hard work and a lot of determination, a wave of exciting local businesses sprung into life. Here is our pick of the latest local start-ups – and the amazing people behind them By Harriet Noble

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NEW START, NEW START-UPS

NEW BUSINESS

Travel by skate and never be late

JELLY COAST

What: Owners Richard and Sara Ebdon handcraft beautiful, and very

colourful, skateboards, cruiserboards, longboards and bellyboards. For every board they sell, they plant a tree in a piece of local woodland. They’re working on some glow in the dark boards as well. What it’s all about: “My husband made boards with a friend a few years back and always loved doing it,” says Sara. “We had just acquired a workshop when, during lockdown, a friend wanted a longboard, so we made one for her. The response we got pushed us to make it into a business. We had always talked about starting building boards as a business but it had never happened; lockdown gave us the time to set it up. “We were worried about what the reception would be as Covid has caused a lot of financial strain for people but lockdown has made people want to get outside. There’s been huge numbers of people learning to skate and longboard, especially women, which has driven a lot of interest our way.” Where: Their boards are all available online but they’re looking to sell at local pop-up shops and markets too. For more: www.jellycoast.com

COSY NOOK CANDLE CO.

What: Handmade natural soy wax products made by Siân Lewis. What’s the story: Siân has lived in Exeter since she was 16 and has

been a primary school teacher here for many years. This April she decided to set up her company after finding it hard to find locally made candles that didn’t contain either paraffin or synthetic fragrances. “When lockdown started this gave me the opportunity to utilise my weekends to work on and develop the idea,” says Siân. After much research and production, Siân opened up her online business and then set about offering her products locally. “Our local shop, the Berry Dairy in Thorverton, which is an amazing little general

“Exeter is no longer the sleepy provincial town of my youth!”

Cosy Nook candles are all about sustainability

store, also offered us the opportunity to stock our products, which allowed me to test the water in terms of customer feedback and product research, and it has been really successful! That was an opportunity we may not have had, had we not been in the middle of a lockdown.” Where: As well as Berry Dairy in Thorverton, Darts farm in Topsham and online: www.cosynookcandleco.co.uk

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Moments gift shop in Cullompton. Jo will also be selling them in local craft fairs soon, and you can also purchase online. www.facebook.com/DollyDrops

THE GLAM BAR EXETER

What: A luxury, very pink, very Instagrammable beauty salon run by

Fabian’s barbershop is new in town

BRICK & MORTAR

What: An appointment-based barbershop founded by Fabian Brabon. What’s the story: Fabian grew up in Sidmouth but has lived in

Liverpool, London (where he trained at the London School of Barbering) before deciding to settle in Exeter and eventually start a business in the industry that he loves. “It’s always been my ambition to open my own shop and Covid gave me the forced break and time I needed to properly plan and start the shop,” says Fabian. Ups and downs: “There were some difficulties with starting a barbershop during the pandemic, the biggest for me was the unknown with regards to PPE etc. I wanted to make sure the clients would feel as safe and comfortable as possible. We’ve got a nice spacious shop so social distancing wasn’t an issue for us.” On the Exeter community: “I love Fore Street, the community and indie business scene this end of town is great. I’d like to give a special mention to Renowned Hair Salon, we’re located above them; they’ve been great, very supportive with any issue or concerns we’ve had.” Where: 55 Bartholomew Street West, Exeter, EX1 2EW; www.brickmortar.resurva.com

Nadia Davey and Yjumye Hurley-Scot. They do makeup, nail and brow treatments. What’s the story: “We are both 24 and are actually both originally from small villages in Devon, not too far from Exeter,” say Nadia and Yjumye. “We met at Exeter College while studying Beauty Therapy Sciences seven years ago and have been friends ever since. Since then we have worked together at MAC Cosmetics before deciding to open the salon a few years ago.” Anything a bit different? “Our unique interior sets us apart from any other salon in the Exeter area with Instagram opportunities wherever you look; did we mention it’s a little bit pink?” Ups and downs: “We did worry that with clubs being closed and large events cancelled due to Covid, that this would have a detrimental effect on event makeup bookings, however we have been busy with all services.” On the community: “We have absolutely loved becoming a part of the Gandy Street family, we’ve received so much support from our neighbours, as well as so many businesses via social media.” What would you like people to feel when they come into your salon?

“Pampered, feminine, empowered, relaxed, inspired, beautiful and of course glam!” Where: 1 Upper Paul Street, Exeter, EX4 3NB; www.theglambarexeter.co.uk

DOLLYDROPS ACCESSORIES

What: Bespoke hand-painted wooden bead accessories, founded by

Jo Macpherson.

What’s the story: “During Covid, I was put on furlough for two

months and as I spent this time at home with my children it gave me some much needed down time to reflect on my life and put into perspective, my interests and desires for the future,” say Jo. “I have always been a creative person and have an active imagination; due to the ‘pause’ in my busy lifestyle, and time spent with my equally creative daughter, nine-year-old Malia, I started experimenting with some ideas. Very soon DollyDrops were born!” We’re loving these personalised Dollydrops

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Anything exciting:

“I have recently made a few ‘school children’ Dolly keyrings with matching uniform colour for some children at my daughters’ school and it really is a pleasure to see them hanging off of lunch bags at the school gates.” Where: DollyDrops are currently being sold in

Yjumye and Nadia at their pretty Glam Bar

NEW BUSINESS HOW ON EARTH PLANT BASED DELI

What: A family team who have set up a traditional deli with a non-

traditional fully plant-based counter. They’ve been supplying grab and go vegan lunches to the Guild shop at the University of Exeter since 2017 but opened up their deli premises this year. Ups and downs: “We signed an eight-year lease in January 2020 and had planned to open mid-March,” says co- owner Heidi Howarth. “Exactly a week before we opened the shut-down happened. It was a shock, but we adapted and as we have a rated kitchen at home we put the shop plans on pause and started home deliveries. “We finally opened the deli on15 July. We have already met some amazing customers, lots of them regulars and we are happy to provide a welcoming environment for people to give plant-based food a try.” What should we try: “Our most popular product so far has been our southern fried chicken-style pieces and our Reuben sandwich, so I would suggest trying those!” Where: 76 South Street, Exeter, Devon, EX1 1EQ; www.facebook.com/howonearthvegan

COFFERY&CO.

What: Coffery&Co is an independent artisan coffee and wine bar

Chloe, Phil and Heidi: it’s a family affair at How on Earth Deli

“Play the piano here and get a free coffee”

experience set up by Magdalena and Martin Bartnicka. As well as their coffee (which they manually brew), they also offer all-day brunch and, come evening, sharing platters, wine and live music. What’s the story: “We came to the UK from Poland almost 16 years ago, however we met only two years ago and got engaged soon after during our holidays in Sardinia,” says Magdalena. “We were looking for another project that we could get involved in together. We realised that Exeter is missing a casual, contemporary

Magdalena and Martin Bartnicka are the coffee aficionados

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NEW BUSINESS

“I love my team, they are my biggest cheerleaders”

coffee and wine bar that would offer a different food and drink experience and combine two of the best things in life to enjoy: coffee and wine!” Ups and downs: “We opened our business on 2 March 2020, so before the pandemic, and had been trading exactly 18 days before we had to close our business down following the lockdown. After so much preparation and a very successful launch, we were devastated. Re-opening during Covid-19, in a deserted city centre was a surreal experience. We did not know what to expect but our customers came back.” Anything quirky? Yes! Play the piano there and get a free coffee. Where: 50-51 North Street, Exeter, EX4 3QR; www.cofferyandco.co.uk

SOAP DAZE

Creative director Sam Sunshine and owner Sharon Mitchell love their new digs on Fore Street

What: Soap Daze make 18 different scents of soaps, in three different

sizes, including the ever popular soap on rope. All soaps are 100 per cent natural, plastic free, vegan, and palm oil free. The company is nearly 10 years old but owner Sharon Mitchell got her actual shop premises this March. On Exeter: “Exeter is my hometown,” says Sharon. “I’ve loved growing up here and having my children here, I love the people and the vibrant city centre. I think Exeter is capable of accepting change and progressing, it’s no longer the sleepy provincial town of my youth! The indie store scene in Exeter is very supportive, and we all shop amongst ourselves. I love selling products from other small businesses just like mine, and I love my team, they are all creatives, and my biggest cheerleaders!” Where: 126 Fore St, Exeter EX4 3JQ; www.soapdaze.com

THE FIRE TREES

What: Owners Simon Cummins and Steph Kemp make and sell

cheese and chopping boards from locally sourced hardwoods, as well as shelving, tables, mirrors and picture frames, usually from reclaimed building timbers – all at their shop down on the Quay. What’s in a name: “At our workshop at home, we use a device to burn random patterns into the wood using something called The Lichtenberg effect, which burns tree-like patterns into the wood, hence our name, The Fire Trees,” says Steph. Ups and downs: “Naturally, starting a new venture in such unprecedented times was a concern, but Jim [Steph’s brother-in-law, who ran Winterwood at the premises previously] had built a strong reputation for quality goods at reasonable prices over the years, and we aim to continue that whilst bringing a fresh perspective and set of ideas to the shop. “The Covid shutdown gave us the perfect opportunity to reorganise, redecorate and rebrand the shop, which has been well received by our customers.” Where: 21 The Quay, Exeter EX2 4AP. n

COMING SOON TO EXETER! THE PRESS HOUSE

What: A Letterpress Café. Not sure what this is? Letterpress is the original mechanical method of printing using plates and ink pressed into paper leaving an impression in the paper which is often now used in luxury stationery, for example wedding invitations. “We wanted to create a space for fellow stationery lovers who can watch the press in action as well as buy some of the prints, cards and personal stationery printed in store whilst enjoying a good coffee and food,” says Melissa Lockhart. “We offer a buy and post in house option for greeting cards and thank you notes as we want to encourage people to be able to sit down and enjoy the process of writing to someone.” When’s it opening?: This October, on Fore Street For more: Instagram: @thepresshouseexeter Can’t see the trees for the wood

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SMALL BUTTERFLY PURSE, £14.50 This gorgeous hand-beaded butterﬂy purse comes in a beautiful sunset orange velvet. It may be a purse but we think it’s so pretty it could easily be your autumn go-to handbag. From Moko, 17 Gandy Street, Exeter; www.mokoexeter.co.uk

MAKE LIKE A LEAF

Embrace autumn with cosy buys in ﬁery, earth hues

COMMISSION ‘BUTTON KNIT UP’ FUSCHIA CARDIGAN, £190-£220 Lauren of Lauren Aston Designs will make a bespoke dreamy cardie especially for yours truly. Choose from one of 25 colours and rock that slouchy-hip look. Cosy knits don’t get much better than this. From Lauren Aston Designs; www.laurenastondesigns.com

RED RETRO SUNGLASSES, £15 Channel your inner Marilyn Monroe with these chic sunglasses of yesteryear. Pair with a polka dot dress and plenty of gumption. From Frocks in Swing Time, 151-152 Fore Street, Exeter; www.frocksinswingtime.com

LAKAI SKATESHOES IN BURNT SUEDE, £70 Step into autumn, crunching on all those lovely leaves, with these durable suede trainers. They come with a fancy premium foam foot bed which oﬀers cushion and support for your tootsies. From The Board Basement, 4 Bridford Road, Marsh Barton, Exeter; www.theboardbasement.com

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RED BANGLE, £150 We love this beauty from Jane Adam. If Jackson Pollock had dipped into jewellery making this is quite possibly what he may have come up with. From Polka Dot Gallery, 12 Martins Lane, Exeter, EX1 1EY; www.polkadotgallery.com

ED’S CHOICE BURNT ORANGE RUCKSACK, £64.99 Love a bit of hiking in Devon? This handy rucksack is weather resistant, durable and pretty darn sleek, with a roll top design and magnetic hold so you can ﬁll this bag to the brim worry-free. Inside there’s a secret wallet pocket and even a padded area to keep your laptop. Here’s a banana, now oﬀ you go! From Toot Garouk, 19 Queen Street, Exeter; www.tootgarook.co.uk

CHILDREN’S DUNGAREES, FROM £70 One for the kids here – these pink berry cotton corduroy dungarees come with an adjustable tie strap and are pretty much the comﬁest thing you could wear this autumn. For grown-ups who love donning a dungaree – and who doesn’t? – they also come in adult sizes. From Black Sparrowuk; www.blacksparrowshop.co.uk

MUSTARD POM POM BEANIE, £24 Handmade in Devon, this beanie is super thick and cosy ensuring snug ears during the colder months. The team from Sancho’s suggest pairing with a burgundy coat, grey tights and some geometric earrings for a chic winter look. We’re sold. From Sancho’s, 117 Fore Street, Exeter; www.sanchosshop.com

18CT WHITE GOLD FIRE OPAL AND DIAMOND DROP EARRINGS, £7,450 Opal is the unsung hero of the jewellery world; vivid and gracious, generic diamond earring these are not. Swish and sway your way through Exeter with these eyecatching lovelies. From Mortimers Jewellers, 87 Queen Street, Exeter; www.mortimersjewellers.co.uk

POWDER DESIGN ORANGE LEAF KNEE HIGH SOCKS, £13.95 Could these be more autumny? Wear with long boots, wellies or just with your jim-jams when you’re watching Strictly. From Leaf Street, 53 Magdalen Street, Exeter; www.leafstreet.co.uk

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Break new ground The Electric Skateboard has evolved throughout the years and is becoming increasingly popular. THE BOARD BASEMENT tells us more...

rustrated with surfing due to everyone from all over the country hitting the beach? Didn't get to the mountains last winter for snowboarding? Or simply want to commute while saving the planet? Electric skateboards have come of age. With reliable tops speeds in excess of 20 miles per hour and ranges of up to 12 miles on a single charge, these amazing machines are ready to give you all the excitement of surfing and snowboarding while carving on land. The Board Basement in Exeter stocks one of the best electric skateboarding brands in the world, Evolve Skateboards. These versatile boards are made to measure up to the highest standard in build quality, using some of the most advance electrical components to ensure reliability and safety. The boards themselves can allow for the wheels

to be changed for different terrain, whether you want to hit the dirt tracks or cruise the seafront. The boards are water repellent to allow riding in the rain and through puddles, but just like your bicycle, common sense dictates you will need do maintance and lubricate everything afterwards! These electric skateboards are not toys – they are battery powered machines to make you grin from ear to ear. Prices range from £949 for the smaller more agile Evolve Stoke, through to £1,449 plus for the Evolve Bamboo or Carbon GTR models. All of the boards are detailed on The Board Basement’s website: www.theboardbasement.com. Models are even available with removable travel batteries. Worried about never having ridden one? The exciting news is that you can test ride the boards at The Board Basement’s store located in Marsh Barton, Exeter. Simple bring a helmet, if you have one, and try them out.

Plus, there is an active local scene from Cornwall to Devon and Somerset, with people getting together to go for a ride on hidden trails and tracks. The Board Basement hosts riding events where you can gain friendly advice and tips, or simply ride with like minded people. Come join the revolution. n

The Board Basement Limited, 4 Bridford Road, Marsh Barton, Exeter, EX2 8QX; 01392 275 256; theboardbasement.com/skate/electric-skateboards

Casa Magnolia CHAGFORD

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Our Autumn/Winter Collections have arrived: CUT LOOSE BLUNDSTONE BLOWFISH HARLEY KNITWEAR PRIVATSACHEN OCHRE RED BUTTON JEANS ROBELL RINO & PELLE YACCO MARICARD QUERNSTONE LOUISE WEDDERBURN VOLKER LANG BAGS 38 The Square, Chagford, Devon, TQ13 8AB 01647 433905 / info@casamagnolia.co.uk

WWW.CASAMAGNOLIA.CO.UK

#EXETER TOGETHER GREG INGHAM

Always be learning… Perspective is emerging on the pandemic. Much is foul. Yet it is also a time of great learning: our age of experimentalism says Greg Ingham, the chief exec of Exeter Living’s publisher MediaClash…

ne of the oddities of education is that we readily define it by places, by buildings, by time. And insufficiently by people, by ideas, by experiences. So we say we went to this school or that college or uni and it becomes a timelocked experience that stopped when we were 16 or 18 or 21; ever more distant, perhaps ever less relevant. No other area of human existence stops when we start to be an adult, from relationships and sex to culture to working. Education though, is done at a fixed point. It’s wasted on the young. Yet the pandemic has allowed, perhaps demanded, a flowering. People have developed unknown crafts skills, discovered arts capabilities, demonstrated their creativity. Most have learned to Zoom to the extent of being puzzled now how we ever

managed without it; perplexed by what might have happened had corona blighted us in a less techcentric time. Companies have learned to pivot, the term du jour in place of the quotidian “change”: learning from our experiences that what we do will no longer suffice, that business as usual really cannot be business as usual. Yet why would we even want to cling to old certainties? Why must the past keep being mapped out in the present as our future? Isn’t disruption good, challenging? How about testing, experiencing, trying? These have been existential times, with shards of personal or professional mortality wounding our certainties. But they have also been the best time to try new ways, our age of experimentalism. So our own business of MediaClash had to learn to run video webinars (approaching 50 since early May), creating Business Clubs with live, candid, revealing, thoughtful discussions, free to watch live or

“We all learned or rediscovered the spirit of decency” 20 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

on YouTube afterwards. And to pivot – I too have rapidly gone off this word and promise never to use it again – our live awards in Cardiff and Bristol into joyous celebrations with a much broader reach into friends and family. (Try Googling “Beth Morris Twitter” and click on the pinned tweet to see what I mean!) Not quite the same live event like the Exeter Living Awards, yet with a recognisably similar spirit, gratifyingly with yet more support. Did we, like other pivoting – ach! – companies know what we were doing? No. We merely had the confidence of ignorance, the fearlessness of inexperience (in that respect only, it’s like being 18 again). It’s a powerful force. Paradox time, especially in a piece about learning: sometimes you really can have too much knowledge. Yet try this, as two of the learnings of the pandemic. Firstly, that people are intuitively accommodating. That they can adapt, rapidly: endlessly inventive, frequently receptive. We cope with the new better than expected, such as observing lockdown stringently until the signalling went off the grid with the cummings (but not goings) of the spring. It might have been stoicism but it felt more like exploration, or learning or mimesis. We live

our lives forward but understand them backwards. Secondly, that what we all learned or rediscovered was the spirit of decency in those darkest days. The smallest of light burns brightest in the darkest of caves. In passing, that very decency is needed, above all, by our charities. At a time when their services are most needed so their funding is most threatened: charity shops closed for too long, denuded for most of the time since, far fewer options online, if any; fundraising events impossible. Yet whether food-poverty, housing, drugs, education, childrelated – the need for all has risen dramatically. Whatever we have learned, planned or arbitrary, whatever experiences we have had domestically or in work, sad or boring or happy, let us all retain faith in sheer decency, inventiveness – and learning. This poor pandemic isn’t an experience any of us would have wished. But it’s a rich source of learning and life-store of shared experiences.

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TOP OF THE CLASS – EXETER SCHOOLS RISE TO THE CHALLENGE INNER SPACE – INSPIRATIONS FOR A HAPPY HOUSE

THE ARTS S N A P S H O T S O F E X E T E R ’ S C U LT U R A L L I F E

CULTURE CLASH The Glorious Art House on Fore Street is one vibrant joint. It’s a positively life-affirming place with bold and beautiful interiors that will make your heart sing. Travel upstairs and you’ll find a sweet courtyard area and a gallery space showcasing local artists’ work. “Clash of the Titans – Abstract vs Figurative” is the latest exhibition and, as the title suggests, sees two ends of the creative spectrum on show. Playing for team Abstract is Charles Somerton, with his colourful piece (left), while batting for team Figurative is Michael Edwards with his Five with Silver (right). Let’s hope it doesn’t get too fisticuffs… “Clash of the Titans – Abstract vs Figurative” runs until 17 October 2020 at The Glorious Art House, 120 Fore Street, Exeter, EX4 3JQ; www.thegloriousarthouse.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 23

WHAT’S ON 2 – 30 October

Always check Covid-19 restrictions and instructions with venues before your visit

Time to get crafty at Westpoint

EXHIBITIONS/ WORKSHOPS Until 31 December 2020

‘LOOKING FOR CLUES’ BY TERRY HOWE Put on some sturdy shoes and enjoy the beauty of Terry’s show, a playful yet thought provoking display of conceptual environmental art – indoors and outside. All visits must be pre-booked via website. Devon Sculpture Park, Mamhead Park (South), Exeter, EX6 8HE: www.devonsculpturepark.org

Until Jan 2021

LOCKDOWN LEGENDS A series of photos and stories celebrating local people who have shown particular kindness and courage during the pandemic. Exeter Guildhall, Exeter Library, Barnstaple Library, Exeter Princesshay and online at www.showcase.rammuseum.org.uk

27 October

COLLABORATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP Join expert analogue photographers Paul Blakemore and Karen Dews as they guide you through making

double exposure prints with your analogue camera. Cameras provided. 11am-3pm; meeting point at Muttersmoor car park, Peak Hill Road, Sidmouth, EX10 0NW; www.thelmahulbert.com

THEATRE COMEDY & DANCE 9-10 October

JACK DEAN: GREAT NORTH ROAD Exeter Northcott’s UNLOCKTOBERFEST kicks off with artist Jack Dean who’s creating a narrative based computer game entitled Great North Road. Primarily a theatre-maker and spoken word artist, Jack is developing a new multiplayer platform set on England’s motorways after the apocalypse. Players must find a way to work together to survive and in doing so, they must ask themselves what kind of character they want to be. 7.30pm (1 hour); Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

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

14 October

RICHARD CHAPPELL DANCE Internationally renowned choreographer Richard Chappell will present a solo performance that will be developed into a full production next year. With electronic music, classical violin and extraordinary dance, this new multi-sensory production explores ritual, rave and the way we connect with each other. 7.30pm (45 mins); Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

23, 24 October

NORTHCOTT EARLY CAREER ARTISTS AND NEW PRODUCERS: STARTING FROM SCRATCH A chance to see five short new pieces created by local early career artists and produced by new producers part of the Exeter Northcott Futures programme. 7.30pm; Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

28 October

NORTHCOTT YOUNG COMPANY: UNLOCKED

Three brand-new pieces of theatre exploring experiences of lockdown, whilst also drawing on similar events from history and literature. Various times; Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

OTHER EVENTS 2-4 October

THE TWO MOORS FESTIVAL: EXMOOR WEEKEND Expect joyful, uplifting music to soothe the soul from world class classical musicians. The line-up includes Misha Mullov-Abbado and his group and pianist Elisabeth Brauss, who’ll playing plays Scarlatti, Beethoven, Mendelssohn and Chopin. St Andrew’s Church, Wiveliscombe; various times; www.tickets.twomoorsfestival.co.uk

22 October

AGILE RABBIT: EMPIRE STRIKES BACK – WHY IMPERIALISM MATTERS How does British history impact today’s relationships with Commonwealth countries? Senior lecturer of history at the University of Exeter Gakendra Singh will be answering this and many

above and left:

Friendly dinos and night walks at Canonteign Falls below: According to Arthur from The Paddleboat Theatre Company

BOOK NOW!

TREASURE ISLAND

In partnership with local comedy troupe Le Navet Bete, Exeter Northcott will stage a version of Treasure Island running from 9 December – 9 January. Although the theatre’s pantomime has been put on hold, the team have found a way to stage this rib-tickling take on the Treasure Island classic, with social-distancing measures in place. Tickets from £16; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

LIBRARY LIFE

EMILY MACAULAY shares the latest from Exeter Library

more complex, topical questions. 7pm-8pm: Agile Rabbit, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter, EX4 3LS; www.agile-rabbit.com

22-25 October

ICHF EVENTS’ CREATIVE CRAFT SHOW Dive into papercraft, jewellery making and beading demonstrations; stock up on crafters supplies, shop for colourful goodies and get inspired by new and exciting ideas and tips from the experts. A must for the crafters. Tickets must be bought in advance. Exeter Westpoint, Clyst St Mary, Exeter EX5 1DJ; www.ichfevents.co.uk

FAMILY FUN Until 3 Jan 2021

THE GREAT BIG BRICK SAFARI Follow The Great Big Brick Safari Trail around the zoo and marvel at the giant gorilla, jumbo size elephant, majestic lion, marvellous macaws, beautiful butterflies and a cool

crocodile – all made from millions of LEGO® pieces. Paignton Zoo, Totnes Road, Paignton, Devon, TQ4 7EU; www.paigntonzoo.org.uk

24 October-1 November

HALF TERM ACTIVITIES AT CANONTEIGN FALLS A week of fun including a bat trail, a night walk to Clampitt falls around the Lily Lake – which will be looking all magical and lit up – and a fancy dress Halloween trail. Canonteign Falls, Christow, Near Exeter, EX6 7RH; www.canonteignfalls.co.uk

26-28 October

ACCORDING TO ARTHUR Expect an inspirational and heartwarming tale of an old man called Arthur who re-engages with the outside world and the adventurous life he once led. 11am and 2.30pm (45 minute family show); recommended age 3+; Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter EX4 3LS; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk n

Well, what odd times these are. But, we’re back. Hurrah for Exeter Living’s return and we’re excited to be back, too. Exeter Library is open for browsing (we’ve lots of new books on the shelves), PC use (including printing and scanning), WiFi enabled study space, children’s library use AND the yummy independent café in the foyer is open too. Our hours are slightly different but we’re still here seven days a week for you. Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm and Sundays 12noon – 4pm. Things will look a little different (where doesn’t?!) but the two-metre distancing, one-way system and hand sanitising stations are all in place to help keep everyone safe. Whilst it is great to have people back in the building, in some ways we never went away. Our e-books, e-magazines, e-newspapers and e-audiobooks were in big demand during lockdown (and remain so). We also moved our events online and have seen some great viewing figures. Catch up on any you missed (highlights include a tour of our “stack” and numerous author events) on our YouTube channel. Our next live event will be broadcast on the Exeter Library Facebook page at 7pm on Tuesday 6 October when we’ll be chatting to author Natasha Randall about her debut novel, Love Orange. The event is free of charge and will be available to watch again after the event via our YouTube channel. www.exeter.ac.uk/ library

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

“The birds have offered an escape for people”

ARTS

STREET SPIRIT Steve McCracken’s graffiti art has now officially got cult status in Exeter. He’s been painting his exuberant creatures onto any given doorway or wall in town for a couple of years. But in the last few months, his art has taken on new meaning as locals found much-needed joy in his colourful creations. And once you start noticing them, you’ll find you start to see them everywhere… By Harriet Noble Photos by Jade Hoksbergen

H Painting flamingos because, why not?

is art may be bold stuff but Steve is a modest, unassuming chap if ever there was one. We’re sitting in his current exhibition space where his explosive graffiti-style art is hanging incongruously above old dome-shaped hairdryers. We could be in a hip East London gallery but it’s actually the old Headstart salon in the Guildhall Shopping Centre. Steve’s outdoor paintings around the streets of Exeter have understandably gained him a lot of fans recently; they’re bright, bold and life-affirming. Just what we need now. He loves painting birds, and the connotations associated with those creatures means they have almost become symbolic in recent months. From painting on hoardings, doorways, pasting up temporary pictures every Wednesday, he’s now become sought after by businesses wanting him to paint on their premises, like the mural at The Oddfellows. Whether it’s down at the Quay or on Gandy Street, his art is out there for all of us to see – and that’s the joy of it.

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ARTS

above and left: Steve and his colourful friends

In his own words, Steve tells us how he’s been changing the streets of Exeter, one bird at a time... There has been a real positive reaction to my street works.

I think the birds have offered an escape for people. Something fun and bright during these times. I often get messages from people saying thank you and from families saying they go out looking for them. I have even been round to people’s houses to paint them on their garages. I want to offer passers-by a space even for just a few seconds where they have no worries or pressures... time for them to be themselves with no worries. After that, people can take what they want from my birds and read in it what they will.

The “text bits” are everything to me.

Bringing my thoughts and writings into my paintings has always been what it has been about. Also using the paint to cover up sections of text to leave ideas and thoughts open for the viewer to make up their own mind on subjects is as important as the text itself, leaving views open to the subject of what the painting is about.

“I’ve even been round to people’s houses to paint on their garages”

Birds have always been a part of my work.

They are part of our everyday lives. I love their form, flow, motion and the feeling of freedom and exploration they have. Birds are so recognisable to everyone which gives me the opportunity to bring my own take on them and paint expressively. The birds have developed into characters and have their own names, for example there is, “Marvin the Magpie, “Percy the Pigeon”, “Stu the Owl” and “Sid the Seagull”.

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

I am starting to discover artists down here too which is exciting.

I love finding other artists’ work in the street and the possibility of new collaborations. I have a pop-up shop/exhibition running until 18 October – maybe longer – in the old Headstart Salon in the Guildhall Shopping Centre which I open every Saturday and by appointment.

I am also looking forward to starting back at Canopy Market, Kings Cross London where I have a stall the first weekend of every month selling my giclee prints and greetings cards and where I perform live painting. I am also in the very early stages of writing a children’s book using the bird characters from the street. And I am also planning a collaboration exhibition in Detroit with American Street Artist Luis Rosenfeld which is very exciting. n For more: www.stevemccrackenart.com

FOOD & DRINK © NICK HOOK

NIBBLES FROM EXETER’S FOOD SCENE Open wide

Thank cod Amelia and Tom Williams-Hawkes have opened up a fish deli

Online cooking classes with a proper chef? Yes please © NICK HOOK

LARKING ABOUT A new virtual cookery platform called Larks Live has launched, bringing revered chefs, bakers, wine experts and food and drink producers directly into everyone’s kitchens through live, interactive online classes. Whether participants are looking to learn basic cookery skills, expand their repertoire of daily family meals, or learn how to recreate showstopping dishes to impress friends and family, they will be able to engage with an interactive, step-by-step class led by an expert. From the comfort of home, attendees can cook alongside the chef in real time to get the full sensory experience, while asking questions to the expert, just like they would at a cookery school – or they can observe the demonstration and replicate the dish another day. “We wanted to create a cookery platform that would bring a sense of community to people so it wouldn’t be just a functional experience,” says co-founder Clodagh Murphy. “You don’t have to cook along on the day – you can just watch with a glass of wine if you like, but we find that around 80 per cent of our participants like to cook along with the chef.” For more: www.www.larks.live

ONE FOR THE DIARY 14- 20 October

DIGITAL CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL A whole week of eating chocolate you say? The delicious Exeter Chocolate Festival might have been cancelled because of you-know-what but nothing’s going to stop Exeter folk enjoying chocolate this October! Enter the Digital Chocolate Festival with choccie masterclasses, meet the makers, guided chocolate tastings, cacao meditations and lot’s more yummy content. The event is taking place live on Facebook.

For more: www.celebratecacao.co.uk

Fresh from the sea

WHAT’S THE CATCH All hail the new fish deli in Topsham! Amelia and Tom Williams-Hawkes from The Salutation Inn added another string to their bow (or should we say fin?) and have opened a fish deli called Salt. Salt, as you may expect, is a-plenty in this joint; customers have a choice of nearly 60 lines of the stuff, along with a multitude of fresh, sustainable fish caught that day from local shores including everything from Teignmouth shellfish to skate wing and red gurnard. Expect loads of goes-with-fish condiments too, such as barrel aged soy sauce, Sea Magik epsom salts, and even lavender and rock salt candles from the Recycled Candle company. For those unsure how to cook fish or just a bit pushed for time, there are also prepared home meals such as fish pie and Sicilian fish stew. “Our passion for fish has always been here but the idea for our new shop was born in lockdown when we wanted to continue to provide for the community and support our local fisherman,” says Amelia.

“We are opening in times when sustainability and local produce are even more prevalent in our hearts.” The deli is onsite at the Salutation Inn – they transformed one of their front lounges – and they ran it first as a lockdown shop in May before opening up officially as a deli in September. What’s it been like opening during this tricky time? “We were lucky as the reason we opened was of course lockdown and this was when the idea was born and, as a family, we decided to go for it,” adds Amelia. “We truly feel that being part of the community and encouraging local shopping which had a good boost during lockdown can only serve us well... fingers crossed. “Weekends are definitely busier but we hope once people know we are here they shall incorporate this into their Topsham shop. The support from the local community has been excellent.” For more: www.salutationtopsham.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 31

PURA VIDA Exeter’s latest café has laidback, sunny charisma by the bucketload. Harriet Noble pays a visit…

f you’re part of the Exeter Instagram community you’ll have seen Pura Vida on your iPhone, even if you haven’t actually visited it in person yet. It’s deservedly been getting a lot of oohs and aahs this summer because of its oh-so pretty interiors. Pinky-coral hues, a surfboard nonchalantly leaning against a wall, rattan furniture, and dollops of greenery; if Pura Vida was a season it would be summer for sure. Howard Parker is the man behind this joint; the 25-year-old originally from Topsham who owns it, is the chef, and even did all the interiors himself, from the paintings of birds and tigers on the walls, to the slogans on the wall, to the upcycling of various bits of furniture. All to create a world that shows, in his words, a “love for Central America, colour, surf, and Cuban art.” And there might be a bicycle in the café but this is no painful hipster haven; it’s so much sunnier than that. When I frequent the café, it is all smiles and warmth from the friendly service to the clientele who, because of its location opposite St Sidwell’s Primary School, are mostly mums, dads, a few kids, a dog and some

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

chilled-out students. The menu is a simple but interesting read, studentleaning but with loads of options to suit all tastes: there are healthy bowls of granola, colourful smoothies, a load of stuff you can have on toast – avocado, peanut butter, chocolate spread, eggs, tofu – plus vegan-friendly fry ups as well as the meaty kind. I opt for a Vida bun with halloumi, rocket, sweet chilli and bacon. The Vida bun looks a bit like a Scotch pancake but feels a lot healthier – perhaps because it’s made from cornflour – while the halloumi, bacon and sweet chilli packs a tasty bunch. On a little bit of a health-kick, I wouldn’t normally opt for lunch with cheese and bacon but it’s a lovely light dish which leaves me energised rather than feeling sluggish. During my visit, I get chatting to Howard who seems unfazed by setting up a business from scratch during a global pandemic; it’s clear the sunny, chilled décor of his place is an extension of his personality. “I have always loved the ‘café culture’ from mum taking me as a young child to growing up seeking new independent spots,” says Howard. “To have my own place was always my ambition; when

RESTAURANT

“The name was inspired by my time spent in Costa Rica with my girlfriend ”

DINING DETAILS Pura Vida, 3 Well Street, Exeter EX4 6QR; Facebook: @PuraVidaCoffeeClub Opening times 8am-5pm, seven days a week Prices from £3.95 – £6.95 © HARRIET NOBLE

I was just eight I used to design logos/ menus and explore my passion for interior design. “But it was during the lockdown that this opportunity arose, I used it as a time to get the place together and to build the hype being the ‘light at the end of the tunnel’.” With a solid background in hospitality and extensive experience working in cafés and restaurants from South Carolina to Newquay, Howard carved out in his head exactly the kind of place he wanted to create. “The name Pura Vida was inspired by my time spent with my girlfriend in Costa Rica. I was hooked by the commonly used phrase and loved its meaning,” he adds. For those not familiar, the definition is painted up on the walls: to live a peaceful, simple, uncluttered life with a deep appreciation for nature, family and friends. “After researching its values I thought they were extremely transferable to the vibe of this café,” says Howard. “I want Pura Vida to have the feel of escape, no matter how your day is going or what the weather is when you step through the door you feel as if you’re in paradise.” I think we could all do with a bit of that right now. n

Vegetarian/vegan choices Excellently catered for Food/drinks choices Loads of things on toast, fry ups, granola, vida buns and smoothies Service/atmosphere Friendly, informal, super chilled

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EDUCATION Students at Exeter School are feeling bouncy

TESTING TIMES

The current shifting landscape has meant employers have an extra duty of care towards their employees. But what if you’re responsible for hundreds of children, teenagers, and a team of teaching and admin staff? We chatted to a bunch of Exeter schools to find out how they’re rising to the challenge of a new term in a new world By Harriet Noble

“We witnessed a joyous occasion when our doors opened” www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 35

EDUCATION

The kids from Exeter School hanging out

EXETER CATHEDRAL SCHOOL Our aim in all of this has been to allow the children to return to as ‘normal’ an experience as possible. There’s been an awful lot of work over the summer to get us to that point, but what matters is that the children return safely and happily. We’re doing things a little differently now, of course, but what a joy it is for everyone to be back.

tutors and our heads of section provide time and space for this every day, and we are encouraging colleagues to meet in small groups and to take time to reconnect over a coffee and some fresh air. Crucially, Bishop Martin Shaw has joined Team ECS as our new chaplain to make sure that mindfulness, wellbeing and worship are available to everybody. Exeter Cathedral School, The Chantry, Palace Gate, Exeter, Devon, EX1 1HX; www.exetercathedralschool.co.uk

How did you manage virtual teaching during lockdown?

EXETER SCHOOL

James Featherstone, headmaster

What has the big return to school been like?

Pupils spent time with their form teacher and friends each morning before undertaking a full curriculum of live and pre-recorded lessons. Assemblies and meetings happened too so that vital sense of community and engagement wad maintained, and we even kept our choristers singing. One of my favourite stories happened during a Year 7 maths class, when a pupil disappeared off camera to go and help deliver a baby calf in the garden. Then he came back and carried on with his equations! What’s in store for this term?

Joyously, our music department has sprung back into life with a (noisy) flourish this week. We have a new head of Drama and English who is running our new creativity hub with our Music and Art teams, and we’re looking forward to broadcasting some performances via our social media platforms. How about the nurturing side of things?

Recovery conversations are a key part of us re-opening safely. Our form

“During a maths class, a pupil disappeared off camera to go and help deliver a baby calf in the garden” 36 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Ms Louise Simpson, head

School’s just begun and you’re the new head! How’s it been?

Having spent the last six years in Brazil, it’s all change for me and for my family and we could not be happier to be in Exeter. It is challenging to return to school in the midst of a pandemic, but the senior team at Exeter School are a fantastically able and committed team and we have been planning for our return to school for some months. It feels excellent to be back and all Exonians, adults and children, are settling in well into the term.

FAMILY LEGENDS During lockdown Exeter School siblings Berenice and Ptolemy Rydin-Orwin, in Years 6 and 10 respectively, assisted their father Phil in producing PPE during lockdown. They not only crowd funded and produced the masks using their own 3-D printer but then sourced injection moulded parts for larger scale distribution and supplied almost 500 visors in a short timescale to many organisations such as local doctors surgeries and care homes. “I really enjoyed working with my dad during the lockdown period and feeling like we were doing something useful to help the local community,” says Berenice.

EDUCATION What positives have emerged from this surreal time?

Our recent investment in digital learning and technology could not have come at a better time, and has influenced the way that we operate now that we are back in school. Tablets and remote learning tools had been rolled out in the previous few months, and these proved to be invaluable in ensuring that the pupils continued to learn effectively online at home, and keep connected with each other. Now that we are back in school, classrooms look and feel different, with a more innovative, technology-based approach to the teaching and learning, and a confidence to use digital resources to great effect to enhance the school experience further. Any bits of exciting news…

We embraced the opportunity to do things differently with our speech day recently. Our guest speaker, Claire Harvey, inclusion and diversity campaigner and Paralympian was with us for three days, working with the pupils as well as awarding prizes to our prize winners. We embraced technology by combining her visit with a virtual event which was shared with the whole school community. Exeter School, Victoria Park Road, Exeter, Devon, EX2 4NS; www.exeterschool.org.uk

THE MAYNARD SCHOOL

Mr Matthew Loosemore, assistant head (safeguarding and welfare) How’s the new term going so far?

Despite all of the media coverage about children’s anxieties about returning to school after being away for many months, we witnessed a joyous occasion when our doors opened on 3 September. Initially it may have been quite daunting for the students to come in through designated gates and doors, in single file, following one-way systems into zoned sections of the school to exist as year group ‘bubbles’. But within 20 minutes the chatter, buzz and excitement took off and the school felt pretty normal by 9am. Young people are wonderfully resilient beings as long as they are given lots of reassurance and structure so that they feel safe and cared for. The staff were wonderfully buoyant as well and there was clear happiness on their faces as they finally got to teach in front of their classes again rather than in front of a screen.

What mental safeguarding measures have you put in place?

The school has won awards for its focus on student and staff wellbeing and was the first school in the South West to win the wellbeing Award for Schools. Of course, this expertise is particularly important at a time such as this, but what’s most important is that we have a happy, family community and our key ethos of kindness means that everyone supports one another. We have a wellbeing committee and breakout spaces in the school if students need some time to themselves and everyone knows that someone will be available to talk in our wellbeing hub. Any stories from lockdown?

A highlight for me was the brilliant virtual sports day our PE department ran and the online screening of the school musical; these events really bought everyone together and made me very proud to work in such a vibrant environment. What positives have emerged from this time?

Our pupils have become even better independent learners having had to organise their time and application to their studies from their home desks for so long and, in most cases, this has made them realise that they are actually pretty good at it! The Maynard School, Denmark Road, Exeter, Devon EX1 1SJ; www.maynard.co.uk

COLYTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL Tim Harris, headmaster

What’s it like being back at school?

It has been wonderful to be in school and to see so many students engaging with their learning in such a positive manner. Their conduct has been exemplary, especially as they are getting used to new procedures and systems.

Winning team from Taunton School

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EDUCATION The kids at the Maynard School are glad to be back

TAUNTON SCHOOL Ed Burnett, deputy head What’s new this term?

We have just opened our new dining room which is a wonderful space for our students to relax and socialise whilst enjoying freshly cooked food from our in-house catering team. Importantly in the current situation, it is a bright, airy space with huge glass doors opening onto a green area. This has enabled us to also create a ‘heart of the school’: a pedestrianised area which links all schools and means all students have an extended safe space to socialise with their friends. Any stories from lockdown?

Many of our students took part in philanthropic endeavours during lockdown which we are hugely proud of. These include four-yearold Monty who took part in a mini triathlon to raise money for our local hospital. What’s the best thing about being back at school?

Having everyone – students and staﬀ – back together and seeing the school full of life again. ■ Taunton School, Staplegrove Rd, Taunton TA2 6AD; www.tauntonschool.co.uk How are you ensuring a level of peace of mind for students, teachers and staff?

OCTOBER EVENTS

SHEBBEAR COLLEGE Caroline Kirby, head

What’s it like being back at school?

The pupils are so excited to be back and it’s been lovely hearing them laughing and chatting in the corridors and making the most of all our outdoor space! Mr Charlie Jenkins, senior deputy head What’s in store for this term?

We are aiming to “Covid-proof ” our activities on oﬀer as much as possible and, whilst outdoor education has always played a big part in life at Shebbear, we are making the most of our amazing location and getting our boarders out at the weekends as much as possible. We currently have surﬁng, mountain biking and sailing activities planned to keep our pupils active and enjoying the outdoors – which is not only great for their mental and physical health but also means the activities should still be able to take place should further restrictions be applied locally or nationally. Shebbear College, Shebbear, Beaworthy EX21 5HJ; www.shebbearcollege.co.uk

A WORD FROM THE THE KIDS

What’s the best thing about being back at school? James Fenwick, Year 7 pupil, Shebbear College Seeing my friends! I really missed being with them during lockdown and over the summer. It’s great to be back with everyone playing sport in person rather than on a screen! I also missed my teachers so it’s really nice to be learning in the classroom with them again – my mum was a bit of a rubbish teacher! Oh, and the lunches are better than at home too – I was getting a bit bored of sandwiches and jacket potatoes!

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Doctor Patrick Vernon OBE

We’ve had an extremely positive start to the term and students should be commended for the mature and adaptable way that they have followed the new routines. Our pastoral staff based in our new wellbeing centre are always on hand to offer support, we have actively drawn their attention to the new campaign ‘Every Mind Matters’ that has been launched by Public Health England. Staff and students are sharing the delights of ‘albums of the week’ and online book clubs. Colyton Grammar School, Whitwell Lane, Colyford, Colyton, Devon, EX24 6HN; www.colytongrammar.com

BLACK HISTORY MONTH The University of Exeter Business School will mark Black History Month this October with a programme of events that celebrate and reflect on black history as well as promote dialogue around diversity, inclusion, cohesion and equality (DICE). Students, staff, alumni and the wider community will be able to attend a range of talks, panel discussions, workshops and Q&As addressing issues such as racism and curriculum diversification. Every day throughout the month the Business School will highlight a Black Briton on its website and on social media, ranging from the pioneering nurse Mary Seacole to Joseph Junior Adenuga (aka the grime MC and producer Skepta). The profiles will serve as inspiration for a writing competition in which students research and write about a Black Briton of their choice. The competition will be launched by Dr Patrick Vernon OBE, author of the landmark 100 Great Black Britons list, a campaign recently relaunched in an updated book with new role models and little-known historical figures. The programme has been organised by Oliver Young, senior lecturer at the University of Exeter Business School. “During October we are keen to promote a positive peer learning environment where staff and students can develop together and learn from one another,” says Oliver. For more: www.exeter.ac.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Best served chilled

Be ready for your next outdoor adventure with a Yeti cooler from THE BOARD BASEMENT

n 2006, two brothers from the US founded YETI Coolers with a simple mission: build the cooler they’d use every day. One that was built for the serious outdoor enthusiast. One that could take the abuse it would be put through out in the field and on the water. One that simply wouldn’t break. So that is what they did but they didn’t stop at Coolers.

Yeti is now one of the world's best outdoor lifestyle brands providing premium coolers and drinkware, from wine tumblers (or G&T tumblers as we call them) to the perfect beach cooler in the form of the YetiRoadie 24L. In the Summer of 2020, Yeti became available at The Board Basement, only one of a hundred stores throughtout the UK and has proved to be a hit with new customers to the brand and to those of you who already knew from travels abroad. Their product innovation comes from first-hand experience and is even bear proof, not such a problem here in the South West. Built to last, Yeti will keep your drinks and food ice-cold or piping hot, even in extreme conditions. They are truely built for the wild. Yeti products are available from The Board Basement’s store in Exeter or online via www.theboardbasement.com Come and have a look at the range from insulated mugs and travelling cups with 360 degree drinking, so you don’t have to find the

hole when you’re driving, through to wheeled coolers for heading to the beach, a day of fishing or simply for the countryside. Yeti products truly are built for living in the South West! ■

The Board Basement Limited, 4 Bridford Road, Marsh Barton, Exeter, EX2 8QX; 01392 275 256; theboardbasement.com/brands/yeti

INTERIOR MOTIVES Interest in interiors has rocketed in recent months, as weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve all spent a lot more time at home. The spaces we live in have had to become an office, school, gym as well as a place to live in and enjoy. We chatted to the local designers for a bit of inspiration By Chloe Appleford

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

INTERIORS

Kitchen designs by Lowe and Bespoke

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INTERIORS ALL IS CALM

“In our experience people are looking to make the best possible use of space so their home feels calm and uncluttered,” says Mark Newbery, managin director at Sapphire Spaces. “Many of us need better storage solutions and other clients are keen to change their open-plan layout for a more broken plan arrangement where clever positioning of furniture and free-standing cabinetry can create zones for both working and relaxing.” There are plenty of on-trend furnishings that can help with creating a zen-like atmosphere too, from pretty tilings, homeware in ice cream pastel shades and pieces in earthy rattan and straw textures.

SHOPPING LIST

1. Tiling, Mandarin Stone 2. Green Spiral Jute Rug, £29.95, Hyde and Seek 3. Handmade Stoneware Pinch Jug In Turquoise and Pink, £15, Insideout 4. Large Black Zigzag Seagrass Basket, £19.95, Hyde and Seek

TIPS FOR CREATING A WFH OFFICE “Pay attention to seating, there are some beautiful, supportive office chairs available that don’t look like they have just come out of a call centre! I’m a big fan of house plants too, not only do they soften a room and evoke a feeling of calm, the right plants will also cleanse the air around you.” Mark Newbery, managing director at Sapphire Spaces

“Nothing makes a home office look or feel more cluttered than wires hanging from your desk and running everywhere: go wireless, install good lighting. Personalise, don’t sacrifice on style! The great part about working from home is that you can decide how you want your home office to look and feel.” Fran d’Argent, sales consultant at Casa “Choose the room you are going to work in and keep it clear, empty a drawer or cupboard so that you can store your paperwork and stationary away at the end of your shift leaving that room free of the day’s work; this will enable you to let go of any work tensions and stresses and enjoy the rest of your day.” Farzana Chaudry Wise, interiors consultant at Drapes 2

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SHOPPING LIST

1. Storage solutions, Sapphire Spaces 2. Conceal bookshelf, £34,95 Hyde and Seek 3. Faux Olive Tree, £95, Nest

BE BOLD

Bright and daring colours are very popular in the interiors world right now, with the current furniture pieces oozing deep colours and textures that are perfect for going into autumn. “People have become braver and the lack of travel has brought memories of rich velvets, leather and warm tweeds, savoury and spicy yellows, teals and golds all adding to that exotic touch” says Fran d’Argent of Casa. “We love these trends because they add class, warmth and a feel of cosiness.” What else is on the horizon? “Green and pink are still going to be big, but we will see more ochre, yellow and terracotta tones emerging; adding that much needed warmth to schemes. Luxe style materials such as tiles that mimic natural onyx, bold marbles and fun terrazzo will be popular this autumn.” Louisa Morgan, creative director at Mandarin Stone

“Burnished red, mustard, pink blush tones, bronze – basically anything that goes with the hit grey trend! Japanese minimalism with graceful bird motifs, abstract and blooms are all stylized to create perfect prints for now. “ Farzana Chaudry Wise, interiors consultant at Drapes 2

A WORD WITH THE EXPERTS

Do you think that Covid has influenced the way people are reappraising their homes? “Making home improvements now seems to be a top priority and carrying out those projects that have been on the to-do list for years!” Louisa Morgan, creative director at Mandarin Stone “The predicted pent up demand after lockdown for home furniture and flooring came to fruition and we have had the busiest three months in the history of our business. Customers have been spending more time as ‘self taught’ interior designers during their time off work.” Gary Dixie, co-owner of CASA “People in lockdown have been spending much more time in the kitchen and baking bread (flour shortages were pretty prevalent!) and cooking became a bigger part of people’s lives. After an initial quiet period at the beginning we found we were getting an increase of interest in kitchen design, people wanting a change, realising what they have got isn’t working as best for them as it could do.” Ruth Andrews, director at Lowe and Bespoke

4 5

SHOPPING LIST

1. Lido Snuggler, £809.10, Casa 2. Ruffle Snuggler, £999, Casa 3. Dimmable table lamp, £218, Kartell, available from Drapes 2 4. Petite club chair, £329, Casa 5. Bunny Tails (Lagurus), Barn Florist

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INTERIORS 1

COSY UP

“Creating spaces that people can enjoy and relax in now matters more than ever,” says Louisa Morgan, creative director at Mandarin Stone. And with the changing of seasons, it’s all about making that place you spend a lot of time in – probably the sitting room and the bedroom – really cosy. As the explosion in people buying fire pits over the summer proved, there is nothing quite like sitting round a fire with your loved ones. Elsewhere, thick, soft furnishings and beautiful textures are the way to go to create the ultimate relaxation haven. 2

SHOPPING LIST

1. Chilli Penguin Woody, Faraway Stoves 2. Giant Knit Bed Runner, £270 – £320, Lauren Aston Designs 3. Elise Velvet Cushion in Green Grey, £39, Toot Garouk

LOCAL GO-TO INTERIORS EXPERTS Sapphire Spaces Limited, 3 Dart Business Park, Topsham EX3 0QH; www.sapphirespaces.co.uk Drapes 2, 86 Queen Street, Exeter EX4 3RP; www.curtainsandblind.co.uk Mandarin Stone, The Newton Centre, 3 Thorverton Rd, Marsh Barton, Exeter EX2 8GN; www.mandarinstone.com

Casa, The Old Gaol, Strand, Topsham, Exeter EX3 0JB; www.casa-furniture.co.uk Dusk Lighting, 1, Lancaster Court, Exeter Airport Business Park, Exeter EX5 2DP; www.dusklights.co.uk Devon Shutters, Unit 22b, Alexandria Trading Estate, Alexandria Road, Sidmouth EX10 9HL; www.devonshutters.co.uk Exeter Carpet Company, 92A Old Tiverton Road, Exeter EX4 6LQ; www.exetercarpet.co.uk

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

Faraday Stoves, Park Court, Devonshire Road, Heathpark Industrial Estate, Honiton EX14 1SW; www.faradaystoves.co.uk Devon Tiles, Devon Tiles Ltd, 23 - 25 Finnimore Trading Estate, Ottery St. Mary, Devon EX11 1NR; www.devontiles.co.uk Toot Garouk, 19 Queen Street, Exeter EX4 3SH; www.tootgarook.co.uk Lauren Aston Designs; www.laurenastondesigns.com

Barn Florist, Unit 23, Woodbury Business Park, Woodbury, Exeter EX5 1AY; www.barnflorist.co.uk Insideout, 1 Bampfylde Street, Exeter EX1 1GQ; www.insideout.co.uk Hyde and Seek, Unit 1, Harlequins, 1 Paul Street, Exeter EX1 1GQ; www.hydeseek.co.uk

The Devon Shutter Company Ltd British Made Shutters Since 2007 01395 578506 | www.devonshutters.co.uk

EXETER CARPET COMPANY LTD A world of ï¬&#x201A;ooring at your feet

92A Old Tiverton Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 6LQ Open: Mon - Fri 9.00 - 5, Sat 9.00 - 1.00 01392 493084 www.exetercarpet.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Meet the family lawyer When it comes to the sensitive and long-term issues surrounding family law, you need to know the right experts who can assist you through those difficult times What professional accomplishment has made you proud? Qualifying! I was not an academic however, when you work in a job you enjoy, it really surprised me what you can achieve. What is the biggest misconception surrounding family law? It is not like it is on the television! You would be surprised how many clients say this.

JESSICA BURGESS

GILBERT STEPHENS SOLICITORS 01392 424242; www.gilbertstephens.co.uk How has family law changed in the last few years? Vastly – with the restriction of legal aid, funding is now very limited. A lot more people act in person which has placed immense pressure on the legal system. What do you enjoy about your job the most? Helping people, particularly in domestic violence situations. Knowing that you can make a difference by keeping people safe and getting them out of abusive situations. Sadly, this area of work increased dramatically in lockdown.

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What advice would you give to anyone considering choosing a family lawyer? Take your time. It is important you feel comfortable with the person you are going to instruct. What do you specialise in? Working in my legal profession for over 30 years, I have gained a great deal of knowledge and experience, specialising in divorce and financial matters. I also deal with private law children cases involving the arrangements for the care of children following a marriage or relationship breakdown, as well as cases in relation to domestic violence, involving injunctions and emergency applications to the court. Tell us something about yourself? Strangely, I have really enjoyed lockdown. In some ways, I have worked harder than I have before – but no travelling!

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce? Breathe and do not rush into it. Take your time – it can be a very raw and emotional time. If you could introduce one new law what would it be? Animals can be a very thorny issue, and as an animal lover, I think the law should be changed so that they are not just treated as chattels. What was your very first job? I had a part time job as a teenager working as a waitress at a café near Buckfast Abbey. My first “real” job on leaving school was working in a chemist and assisted in dispensing of prescriptions. If you weren’t working in the legal world what would you be doing? I love anything to do with animals – particularly dogs. So I would love to run a business looking after peoples’ dogs – perhaps a dog hotel! What are the most common family issues? Contact disputes and enforcement applications have featured a lot recently as a result of the pandemic. For more information or to request a call back please visit our website at www.gilbertstephens.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE HANNAH QUICK

MOIRA REYNOLDS

CARTRIDGES LAW 01392 256854; www.cartridgeslaw.co.uk How has family law changed in the last few years? The most recent significant change to the whole legal system has been cases and court hearings being conducted remotely. What is the biggest misconception surrounding family law? I think for me, when I first joined the family law department at Cartridges Law, the thing that surprised me the most was the length of time court proceedings take. Now that I am fee earning it makes sense, the court are making a huge decision, especially when it comes to children and their future. They have to have all the available information before them in order to be in the best possible position to make such big decisions and obtaining this information can take a long time. What do you specialise in? Children Law and domestic abuse. I represent parents in proceedings brought by the Local Authority and social services. I also represent parents in proceedings where there is a disagreement about a child’s living or contact arrangement. My work also includes representing victims of domestic abuse and applying to the court for protective orders to protect them and, if they have them, their children too. Tell us something about yourself? I play netball and have done since I was in primary school. I currently captain a team in an Exeter league although we haven’t played for a while because of COVID19. I have a chocolate Labrador called Alfie who keeps me busy!

EVERYS SOLICITORS 07702 202882 www.everys.co.uk

Hannah Quick

Moira Reynolds

What professional accomplishment has made you proud? There are many: reuniting a father with his child after months of no contact (based upon unfounded allegations); supporting a wife who did not want contested proceedings against her husband, and securing spousal maintenance for her as well as a 62% share of the equity in the FMH; supporting an elderly victim of a domestically coercive relationship. What advice would you give to anyone considering choosing a family lawyer? Don’t choose the firm; choose the lawyer, and don’t rely upon Google reviews (they are often posted by the disgruntled spouse). What are the most common family issues? Lack of unity spurned from lack of communication and entrenched positions. Communication is key. A mutual respect to recognise that if your relationship has broken down, it will take time to undo the ties that exist (both emotional, financially and far wider). Remember the children (if there are any) – they suffer incredibly and the long term effects will come to the fore in the future. What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce? Make sure that talking is on the daily agenda – that will help to alleviate feelings of isolation.

GEMMA ROWE

SARAH WALLS

What do you enjoy about your job the most? The ability to help vulnerable people, children and those suffering domestic abuse. When they first get in contact, they’re often anxious and panicky – I’m pleased to be able to provide reassurance, explaining what can be done to help them and how the processes work. Ultimately I know I am helping clients to start on a journey to a more positive future. What areas do you specialise in? Children, which includes seeking to resolve issues such as where a child lives and contact with the other parent. I also help victims of domestic abuse get protection in the family courts. If you could introduce one new law what would it be? I’m in favour of legal aid being more available so everyone has access to justice and the no fault divorce which will help to mitigate antagonistic behaviour associated with the divorce process as people try to blame each other. Hopefully we’ll see that one being implemented soon! What are the most common family issues? Enquiries about domestic abuse, children and divorce really increased during and after lockdown, no doubt due to the added stress of families being shut in together, and ongoing anxieties to do with Covid-19 issues.

What do you enjoy about your job the most? When people first instruct me they can be upset, or angry, but as we work together, and subsequently reach an agreement with their spouse, I often see a significant change. It is so rewarding to know that I have helped to achieve a positive change. What professional accomplishment has made you proud? Stephens Scown’s family law team was named Family Law Team of the Year (South of England) in the 2019 Family Law Awards in London. I am so proud to be part of an award-winning team and to have represented our firm with Andrew Barton and Sarah Atkinson in collecting the award. What advice would you give to anyone considering choosing a family lawyer? Choose someone who not only has the expertise to help you achieve the best outcome for you and your family, but also who you can get along with. What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce? Take advice before you separate. Knowing what you may be entitled to in a divorce can help you make informed decisions about the actions you take on separation and subsequently. If you could introduce one new law what would it be? Parliament is considering a bill to introduce a no fault divorce. I would want to ensure this was passed to reduce the animosity caused by blaming one person in a divorce petition.

THE FAMILY LAW COMPANY 01392 421777; www.thefamilylawco.co.uk

STEPHENS SCOWN LLP 01392 210700; www.stephens-scown.co.uk

Gemma Rowe

Sarah Walls

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Relationship worries? Rachel Buckley from THE FAMILY LAW COMPANY shares advice surrounding separation

elationships have been put under pressure more than ever as the Covid-19 pandemic continues around the world but what happens if you think your relationship has come to an end? It is a confusing time. The Family Law Company's new guide to divorce is based around real-life client experiences. We wanted to create a free resource for those who were concerned about their situation. It provides a starting point for anyone considering or facing separation and aims to alleviate some of the initial anxiety and confusion. As a dedicated family law firm of over two decades, we've helped thousands of clients through separation, dissolution and divorce. We understand that it is never easy and that there are always going to be challenges – from the moment the decision is made to the day the decree absolute lands on the doorstep.

To help us produce our new guide, we spoke to a cross section of clients with differing circumstances and reasons for separating who were happy to share their stories. Happily, they have all come out the other side in the knowledge that the breakdown of a relationship is not just an end but also a beginning. We asked for their top tips – and this is what they told us: l Try counselling, it can help you to be sure if the marriage is salvageable or over. l Meet with different lawyers to make sure you find the right one for you. l Look at areas where you can do things yourself to help keep fees down – your solicitor will advise you. l Protect yourself by keeping the process as business-like as possible. l If you have children, try to maintain an amicable relationship. l Be open with friends and family, who will give you support.

Our guide is called 'We are only human' reflecting the fact that nobody is perfect, mistakes can be made and feelings can be hurt. At The Family Law Company, we believe in empathy and understanding, supporting our clients towards a brighter future. n

To view the guide please visit www.thefamilylawco.com/only-human 01392 421777; enquiries@thefamilylawco.com

It’s the city’s business

EXETERWORKS Exeter Science Park is set to get a lot bigger

“THIS KIND OF COLLABORATION IS GOING TO BE ESSENTIAL FOR OUR REGION’S POST-COVID RECOVERY”

Joining forces

wo of Exeter’s most prolific organisations, Exeter Science Park Limited and the University of Exeter, have joined forces to create a focal point for science, technology, engineering, maths and medical (STEMM) innovation at Exeter Science Park; a move that is hoped to boost growth and employment opportunities in the local area. The partnership will see business activity being transferred from the Innovation Centre to Exeter Science Park and £2.25m funding being released to support the provision of innovation services by SETsquared Exeter over the next 18 years. “This landmark agreement brings a new focus to the existing collaboration between Exeter Science Park and the University’s SETsquared

Exeter team that will support recovery and drive growth,” says Dr Sally Basker, CEO of Exeter Science Park. “It will ensure that Exeter Science Park Centre tenants will continue to benefit freely from SETsquared, Exeter’s world-leading business incubation services.” What will this mean for Exeter? The partnership is also set to reopen the way for joint initiatives to secure new resources for businesses in the area, initiatives such as the new University Enterprise Zone and the Environmental Futures and Big Data Impact Lab. “Our goal is to secure and create high-value jobs, enhance productivity and boost economic growth in the South West and this agreement gives us the opportunity to do that, as well as

reinforcing Exeter Science Park’s position as the hub for STEMM-based business expansion in our region,” adds Dr Basker. How much growth? There are currently around 500 people employed by the tenant businesses at Exeter Science Park and projections forecast a seven-fold growth over the next 15 years, taking employee numbers to 3,500 by 2035, with new buildings and membership packages being developed. “This kind of collaboration between start-ups and universities is going to be essential for our region’s post-Covid recovery, helping businesses innovate and grow,” says Professor Lisa Roberts vice-chancellor and chief executive of the University of Exeter. For more: www.exetersciencepark.co.uk

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Human rights barrister Dexter Dias QC at TEDxExeter Presenting all of Exeter’s finest

BRIGHT IDEAS

IN IT TO WIN IT The Exeter Living Awards are back following the innovative success of this year’s virtual celebrations, with the organisers planning a highly-memorable, unmissable event for 2021 after the recent times following the pandemic. Last time round saw the biggest and best Exeter Living Awards yet: quality nominations, diverse set of finalists, excited sponsors and many magic moments. Plus a sold-out attendance of over 450 with plenty on the waiting list. Sponsorships are now available for the new Awards season. In 2020, the Awards were trending on Twitter in the UK once again, such was the massive interest in congratulating the winners. The Exeter Living Awards will be held on 25 March at the Great Hall, with the all-important nominations opening this November. “We were thrilled that so many businesses enjoyed the Awards last

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time round with so much positivity and support from the full array of Exeter’s organisations,” says MediaClash event organiser Claudia Butler. “We understand that 2020 has been tricky for many but there’s been plenty of good done throughout the city and we can’t wait to come together and celebrate all your kindness, collaboration and business achievements next March!” Information for businesses on How to Win an Exeter Living Award will be available via the website. “We’re keen for all companies to put the best possible case forward for an Exeter Living Award. Our comprehensive online top-tips will guide businesses through what the Judges are looking for and explaining how the Awards work,” Claudia adds. For sponsorship enquiries, please contact Paula Miller paula.miller@mediaclashco.uk For more: www.mediaclash.co.uk

During the Coronavirus pandemic, TEDxExeter has been running a series of monthly online events where groups watch a talk together and then break into smaller groups for lively ‘Conversations that matter’ discussions about important challenges facing us all. The ninth TEDxExeter Ideas Festival was scheduled to take place in April 2020 but was postponed. Keen to provide for its growing community, curator and licensee, Claire Kennedy and the TEDxExeter team organised the online conversations with speakers and ‘TED Circles’; to help people stay connected. “We have had as many as 500 people together online at any one time and it’s been a fantastic way of sharing powerful ideas and keeping the community connected while we are unable to meet in person,” says Claire. In June, after the horrific death of George Floyd and the global Black Lives Matter protests, over 450 people joined human rights lawyer Dexter Dias QC and Claire Kennedy, for a conversation about race and the struggle for racial justice in the UK. In July, Dexter returned for another online discussion with Marcia Rigg, whose brother Sean was killed in police custody 12 years ago and who has been fighting racial injustice ever since. On 13 October, TEDxExeter will be hosting the online launch of TED Countdown – a global initiative to champion and accelerate solutions to the climate crisis. Countdown’s goal is to build a better future by cutting greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030, in the race to a zero-carbon world. TEDxExeter online events are open to everyone. For more: www.TEDxExeter.com

EXETERWORKS

BE A CHAMP Support Local is the latest campaign from Exeter Chamber, celebrating businesses and organisations which are doing their bit to support the local economy by choosing local suppliers, providing jobs and serving the community. So far, more than 30 local companies have shown their support for the community, name-checking more than 90 local suppliers between them. “Greater Exeter is a fantastic place to do business; during the last diﬃcult months we have been blown away by the sense of community and collaboration between businesses in the city and its surrounds,” says Julie Hawker, Chamber board director and joint chief executive of digital specialists Cosmic. Local companies who’ve joined the campaign include local charity WESC Foundation (The Specialist Centre for Visual Impairment) who’ve employed 250 people from Exeter and the surrounding area. Those staﬀ help support children and young adults with visual impairment and complex needs from all over the UK, including many from our local area. ONE FOR THE DIARY!

Barry Creels from Axminster Carpets is supporting locals

Following in the footsteps of the Friday Lockdown Show, Exeter Chamber has launched a new web programme called Refocus. The new format will focus on giving local business leaders the information they need to make important decisions in this critical time period. The speakers will be a mix of regional leaders, experts in their fields and those with good news stories to share. The next shows will take place on 15 October and 12 November. For more: www.exeterchamber.co.uk

Local charity WESC are onboard the new campaign

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FOOTBALL NEWS Bringing you the latest from Exeter City FC Chris Bentley is raring to go

“MY AIM IS TO SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT THE GREAT WORK THE CLUB DOES”

Emma Paull is one of the newbies at the Old Mill

MOVERS, SHAKERS ETC DOUBLE WIN

Flying the flag for the region are two specialist solicitors from Devon who have been shortlisted in the national Family Law Awards. Director and co-founder of The Family Law Company Jane Chanot is a finalist in the International Family Lawyer category, whilst Grace Bradley is on the shortlist for Associate Solicitor of the Year. Both solicitors work at the grittier end of family law, dealing with complex, often harrowing cases that require commitment, tenacity, and unsociable hours. The awards ceremony will take place virtually, on 25 November. For more: www.familylawawards.com

BIGGER AND BETTER

Exeter financial firm Old Mill have welcomed 17 new starters as the business continues to expand. The company has recruited into all levels of the business, including school leavers, graduates, and more experienced positions. “For a business of our size to bring in 17 new staff at any one time is a fantastic growth story, but to be able to do so in the current climate is even more exciting and we are delighted to be in a position to give them the opportunity to either start or further develop their careers with us,” says Ian Carlson, managing director at Old Mill. www.om.uk

xeter City Football Club’s commercial team has made a top new signing with Chris Bentley, formerly of Exeter Chiefs, joining the football club as a consultant. “I’m both excited and enthused about the prospect of getting into the mix with City,” says Chris. “I’ve always been a fan of the rich heritage of the club and am raring to help increase revenues as we look to expand our commercial offering. “During the tumultuous time that we’re all facing, my aim is to spread the word about the great work the club does, not just on the pitch but in the community and with its successful academy. If I can introduce some new faces and help previous supporters rediscover the club, along with the sterling work it

does for the greater Exeter region, then I’ll be off to a good start.” Evertonian Chris actually began his sporting career as a goalkeeper but moved to the oval ball, playing professionally around the world throughout a 13-year playing career. After seven seasons playing for the Chiefs, he retired to join their corporate team and was a key player off the field through a period of exponential growth. “We are very excited to get Bentos on board and are looking forward to him adding his experience and distinctive style to the commercial team,” says Mark Jenkins, head of commercial. “We see his joining as a real coup and we’re very eager to see what he can achieve.” For more www.exetercityfc.co.uk

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GO WEST

White Wall Yellow Door, an initiative which provides museums, galleries and theatres with resources for families, is delighted to announce its plans to launch in Exeter. The company, whose clients include Trinity Buoy Wharf, the Petrie Museum of Egyptology and the Freud Museum, has been established in London for four years but has now set its sights on expanding in the South West. Based in Exeter, communications and marketing professional Lucy Sainsbury will be heading up operations in the area. “The South West is full of fascinating and beautifully curated museums, galleries and cultural establishments and I am really excited to be joining the team and launching the initiative in the South West,” says Lucy. “We feel that there is great potential to form partnerships in this region to help widen participation and increase family benefit.” For more: www.whitewallyellowdoor.com

EXETERWORKS

EXETER LIVING AWARDS 2020 Dedication, hard graft, and a rocking team saw The OddFellows scoop best bar at the Awards. Co-founder Faye Williams casts her mind back to the big night… How did it feel to win an Exeter Living award?

It was great for The Oddfellows to have the recognition for our hard work and dedication to local producers. Nearly 15 years in the city now!

How did you celebrate? We went ‘out out’.

Where do you keep your award?

It’s behind the bar in The Oddfellows, proudly on display.

Why do you think The Oddfellows won?

We outshone the competition. Our dedication to local quality products hopefully and the skill of our wonderful team.

BAR WINNER

“WE DO IT THE RIGHT WAY WITH THE BEST STUFF” What do you think sets you apart from other bars in Exeter? We have a great reputation in the city and having been here for 15 years; we have seen many places come and go. I’d like to think it is our ethical approach to business: free range, sustainable, slow reared, local,

seasonal, all made from scratch. We do it the right way with the best stuff.

Have you had to change your business model because of Covid? If so, how?

We have, but we actually love our new way of rubbing along. We now offer, on Friday and Saturday nights, our six-course Supper Club for £35 per head accompanied by a delicious cocktail, aperitif menu, Luciano wines, and local beers, cider etc. We have been fully booked most of the time. We are also open on Sundays for our epic Sunday roast.

What advice would you give someone looking to open a bar/restaurant in Exeter?

Choose your concept and stick to it,

consider your location very carefully and make sure you have back-up funds!

What do you love most about Exeter?

It’s a small city, it’s clean, very green and you’re very close to the countryside and sea. Good schools, good rail links and, even with Covid and other financial downturns, Exeter seems to carry on growing and developing and pushing forwards. An economic bubble of sorts.

What plans do you have for The Oddfellows? Getting through this pandemic!

For more: www.theoddfellowsbar.co.uk

The happy winners

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PROPERTY P L A C E S T O L I V E , W O R K A N D P L AY

WHAT A GIFT!

above: Roger Wilkinson is celebrating a big birthday right: Walking for Hospicare are these two smiley chaps

Exeter property company Wilkinson Grant & Co is celebrating its 25th birthday. And to commemorate the occasion, it is giving support to a number of local charities. “Since we first opened for business in 1995 we have been committed to helping local charities and community groups,” says owner Roger Wilkinson. “Over the years, we have been proud to support and promote many fundraising events for a vast number of them – helping raise much needed monies for the valuable work they do in our local community. “Those charities include Exeter

NEW!

PROPERTY SECTION

AGE UK; Hospiscare; Exeter City Community Trust; Exeter YMCA: Exeter Leukemia Fund; FORCE; Balloons; Dreamaway; Headway Devon; Estuary League of Friends and Exeter Dementia Action Alliance and a number of other smaller local charities and community groups.” Wilkinson Grant & Co is inviting all of the above named charities to apply for a discretionary grant from their Wilkinson Granted Anniversary Fund. Each will receive a minimum of £250 and the maximum will be determined by sharing whatever monies are raised through their Just Giving page. For lesser-known local charities and community groups, there are fourteen more separate grants available of £50 each, available via separate application to the same fund. “Now is a particularly challenging time for such organisations and we are keen to help, calling on our clients, customers business associates and friends to join us in lending your support,” adds Roger. For more: www.wilkinsongrant.co.uk

OPEN DOORS After work halted earlier in the year, Exmouth’s newest school, the Deaf Academy, has opened its doors to students. The £10.5million Deaf Academy features cutting edge Deafspace architecture and technology designed to enhance and improve the learning for its students, who are aged from five to 25; many of whom have additional special needs. The Academy, which moved from its former home on Topsham Road in Exeter, where it has been based for almost 200 years, had been due to open earlier this year and the new build was in the final stages of completion when work was halted due to the impact of Coronavirus, and the students’ learning was taken online. Staff at the academy worked with architects, south west-based Stride Treglown in the development of the new Academy. “We undertook a lot of research, looking at other deaf schools across Europe and the United States of America, and particularly the work of the Gallaudet University in the US to understand the unique challenges and opportunities that this exciting project posed,” says Carl Harding, architect at Stride Treglown. “Everything possible has been done to create an environment which improves and enhances communication.” For more: thedeafacademy.ac.uk

PROPERTY NEWS

Market commentary from Sarah-Jane Bingham-Chic, head of residential for Savills Exeter “Prime property sales in Exeter and the wider South West intensified over the summer with new buyer registrations up 125 per cent between June and August, when compared to last year, as people activated decisions made during lockdown. Particularly sought-after, coastal properties have seen a considerable increase in demand. “Many predicted that the immediate shift in priorities seen in April was just a response to lockdown, and would be short-lived. This latest survey highlights greater commitment from people to make real changes and from June to August deals agreed by the Exeter office were up 15 per cent when compared to the same time last year. “Buyer determination to avoid compromise on lifestyle factors has boosted the appeal for a more rural lifestyle. Garden and outside space has become more important and there is a greater desire for separate home working space. “The buoyant market conditions are giving owners confidence to bring their homes to the market while buyers retain a degree of price sensitivity. Keeping buyer and seller expectations on pricing aligned will be key to maintaining the summer momentum through the autumn and beyond.” For more: www.savills.co.uk

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Home-grown success TMQ is one of Exeter’s recent business success stories

uying a house and securing a mortgage, is no easy feat at the best of times, let alone during Brexit, a global pandemic and huge economic recession. Despite this, Exeter based Mortgage brokers, The Mortgage Quarter (TMQ) have continued to push through in what has certainly been an unexpected and challenging first few years of business. Strong in the face of adversity, it has taught the team to always expect the unexpected and regardless of the challenges, to keep pushing on, and that is exactly what they have done.

BACK TO THE BEGINNING When James Miles and Michael Tilston launched TMQ in June 2018, they never anticipated the growth and success they would achieve in such a short time. As the team quickly outgrew the first office, new premises were acquired in March to accommodate the now team of nine. Located on Richmond Road in a stunning three-storey town house, just a 5-minute walk from the city centre, the team is proud to offer a warm, welcoming and down to earth, customer-centric approach. Evidence of this lies within their 100 plus (and growing) 5* customer reviews.

In the last year, the team also has a plethora of exceptional community focused achievements under their belt, to include: ● Fundraising almost £1000 for Exeter Leukemia Fund during lockdown by running a marathon over 10 days. ● Celebrating two hugely successful Christmas Toy Collections for the children’s Bramble Ward for the Royal Devon & Exeter NHS Foundation Trust. ● Offered a fee free service to all Key workers during lockdown. With countless good news and success stories, even lockdown hasn’t dampened the team’s spirits. James from TMQ says, “We would like to say a huge thank you to our loyal clients who kept us extremely busy during these trying times. It’s a credit to the Exeter business community pulling together to ensure the City and its people continue to thrive.”

“THE PROPERTY MARKET, ESPECIALLY IN EXETER, IS FLYING AND MORE LENDERS ARE MAKING MORE MONEY AVAILABLE FOR MORE PEOPLE”

STRONGER TOGETHER

THE PROPERTY MARKET

Supporting local businesses and the community has been high on TMQ’s priority list from the very start. Having built a strong network of connections and partnerships with local estate agents and solicitors, they aim to take the pressure and stress away from what can often feel like a difficult task.

Despite the uncertainty this year has brought, a post-lockdown surge in the property market and a widespread reflection of what people now want from their homes, has led to a whirlwind of activity for TMQ. Richard Grigg, TMQ Mortgage Advisor says, “The property market, especially in Exeter,

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is flying and more lenders are making more money available for more people. The Stamp duty holiday has without a doubt been a huge factor in the recovery of the housing market with Rishi Sunak waiving the standard rate of stamp duty on all purchases up to £500,000 until March 31, 2021.” For you as a house-buyer, this means potential savings of up to £15,000. In addition to this, the Help To Buy scheme has been extended further to match. With a fast moving local property market and significant savings to be made in stamp duty, getting the extra space from a new home could be more affordable than you think. Rates are still low, houses are selling, and the professional team at TMQ are using their knowledge with lenders to get the very best for their clients. So whether you are a home mover, a first time buyer, investor or you’re simply looking to remortgage, there really is no time like the present. ■

The Mortgage Quarter, 23 Richmond Road, Exeter, EX4 4JF; 01392 660219; info@tmq.org.uk; www.themortgagequarter.co.uk

PROPERTY A PL ACE TO C ALL HOME

HOLMBUSH

Calm, spacious – dollops of West Country festival vibes – welcome to the ultimate rural retreat By Imogen Davidson-Smith www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 61

A PLACE TO CALL HOME PROPERTY

ho could blame people for wanting to have a staycation in Devon during the last few months? It’s got countryside, ocean and that gorgeous, friendly city called Exeter. And this property looks a bit like a high-end holiday home; a thing of beauty that might exist in one of those listicles entitled “The top Ten Most Stunning Holiday Homes Near Exeter.” Something so gorgeous you’re only allowed to stay there for a week. Nobody could possibly live there permanently, could they? Well, yes, they could and they can because it’s on the market now. And in any given time this property would be a find but after lockdown this one really fulfils the criteria for it’s got that thing we’ve all been craving over the last few months – outdoor space. And in a really cool, I’m-having-a-festivalin-my-back-garden-in-Devon kind of way. This shindig comes teeming with huge, beautiful outdoor terraced areas, one a rooftop terrace attached to the house and the others all spaced out around the garden; one even has a bar in it, all for eating, drinking, and being merry. We think you could even go the whole hog and theme these terraces: the disco terrace, the yoga terrace, the wine and

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cheese terrace, the possibilities are endless! In short, these outdoor areas mean you can have as much fun – or solitude – as you wish. Inside, the mellow party continues with a décor that is cool, contemporary and bright; where light colour schemes and whopper windows pervade. The ground floor accommodation is accessed from a reception hall, opening into a dining room with French doors leading to the fabulous exterior terrace. There’s a good-sized office, an extensive sitting room with bi-fold doors to another garden area, and a spacious kitchen which comes with a large breakfast bar. Completing the ground floor accommodation is a generous size family room, a useful utility room and a cloakroom. Upstairs, Holmbush offers a spacious master bedroom, complete with en suite wetroom and French doors leading to a wonderful roof terrace. There are four further double bedrooms, two on the second floor, and two with en suite shower rooms. Bedroom two also has a dressing room, and a stylish family bathroom completes the accommodation. To top it off, if you are one of the many whose living arrangements have meant there’s an additional bod in your brood, separate from the main house is the coach house complete with openplan kitchen/sitting/ dining room and a bedroom and wet room. There’s really no need to book that one-week staycation holiday – how about you just buy this dreamy home to spend the rest of your days in. n

HOUSE NUMBERS Square footage 3,000 Bedrooms 5 (main house), 1 (coach house) Bathrooms 3 Where Ide, Exeter

Outside Spacious lawn, roof terrace, outdoor bar and four decked terraces Guide price £975,000 For more Strutt & Parker Exeter Estate Agents, 24 Southernhay W, Exeter EX1 1PR; 01392 249164; www.struttandparker.com

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EXETER LIVES

“Culturally Exeter punches well above its weight”

PAUL GIBLIN Pink Floyd obsessive Paul Giblin knows a thing or two about Exeter and its residents – he’s director of local radio station Phonic FM and works in adult social care locally. We caught up with him to find out about his love for the city… Whereabouts do you live?

I live in the Heavitree part of Exeter, which I love. For me it’s special because our neighbours are all friendly, as are most of the people I meet when out and about in that part of the city. It’s also the part of Exeter that I lived in for my second and third years as a student many years ago. Tell us about your day job…

My role is with Devon County Council where I have the job title of involvement manager for adult social care. I manage a great team that is responsible for ensuring

that people who use adult social care services have a say on the development of those services. At its best, it’s incredibly rewarding to empower people, at its worst it means having to explain tough decisions to people whose lives are affected by them. It’s never boring and during the pandemic I was deployed into the role of communications lead for our adult social care cell, which was an extremely full-on role – as I’m sure you can imagine. And Phonic FM?

As a founding director of

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Phonic FM I am one of five board members who all do our bit to keep the station afloat, so we all multi-task. My major roles are acting as company secretary and working with our accountant to keep us solvent and administratively sound. The role I relish most is organising many of our fundraising benefit gigs, which I promote under the guise of The Future Sound of Exeter. I also speak on behalf of the station at public events and I host my own weekly Future Sound of Exeter show and am a co-host for The Respect Show, having co-ordinated Exeter Respect festival from 2003 to 2013. What have you learnt about Exeter through your roles?

With my social care hat on I think Exeter is essentially a caring city with a well-developed voluntary sector that arises from a strong community spirit. With my Phonic FM hat on I think that Exeter contains a lot of creative people and culturally it punches well above its weight for its population size and location. I love it! Any positives that you’ve taken from the last few months?

I’ve always done a fair amount of drawing and during lockdown I started drawing the plants in my garden, which has given me a lot of pleasure, has doubled-up as a mindfulness activity and has been well-received when posted on social media.

the décor in The Glorious Art House café on Fore Street, the creative company to be found in the Exeter Phoenix café bar, and the racks in Rooster Records on Fore Street are always far too tempting. Who would play you in a film about your life?

I’m not very good at recognising actors but Jeff Goldblum has been great in every film I’ve seen him in and would deliver the required level of sarcasm and puns. What great thing about Exeter does not receive enough attention?

The Urban and Rural Plants exotic plant centre, with its stunning array of weird vegetation. What band do we need to listen to?

As a Pink Floyd obsessive, I am adamant that we can never listen to enough Floyd, and anyone who likes the early stuff really needs to listen to Nick Mason’s Saucerful of Secrets if they have yet to do so. Times are uncertain at the moment, what do you know for certain?

Karl Marx’s old phrase “nothing is certain but change” springs to mind, but I’m certain that as long as we have an arts centre to broadcast from, there will be enough volunteers to keep Phonic FM on air as Exeter’s sound alternative. n

Where are your favourite places to eat, drink and shop in Exeter?

I love the food in the Cork & Tile Portuguese café on Gandy Street,

For more: www.phonic.fm

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Book your consultation today 01392 248 630 17 Castle St, Exeter, EX4 3PT reception@exeterdentalcentre.co.uk exeterdentalcentre.co.uk

Exeter Dental Centre is a trading name of Oasis Healthcare Limited. Registered in England and Wales no: 03257078. Registered oﬃce: Bupa Dental Care, Vantage Oﬃce Park, Old Gloucester Road, Hambrook, Bristol, United Kingdom BS16 1GW.

DUK05982 | Aug20

EXETER

Fina nce opti ons avai lable

Exeter Living - Issue 269

Articles inside

EXETER LIVES DJ extraordinaire Paul Giblin gets chatty

PROPERTY NEWS Everyone wants to move to Devon, and other stories

INTERIORS All the latest trends from the local designers

EXETERWORKS Business movers and shakers

EDUCATION New term, new start

SHOWCASE Possibly the coolest pad in Exe

RESTAURANT Summer romance at Pura Vida

EDITOR’S CHOICE Autumn chic from Exeter’s indies

EXETER TOGETHER A word from Greg Ingham

JP HEDGE Welcome back to our amazing columnist

NEW INDIES Who’d open a business in lockdown? This punc hy lot did

INTRO The must-see art exhibition this month

SPOTLIGHT Inspiring news from all over town

STREET ART A word with Exeter’s favourite artist

WHAT’S ON Loads of culture, plus half-term fun for the kids