Exeter Living - Issue 274 by MediaClash

TAKE ME

CREATIVE

SPARK

ISSUE 274 / NEW YEAR 2021 / MOVING ON

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF VERONICA GOSLING AND STUDIO 36

LIFTING THE LID

EXETER’S NEWEST RESTAURANTS

WHAT A DRAG!

ARINA FOX ON BRINGING FABULOUSNESS TO EXETER

MAKE A MOVE

THE FUN WAY TO GET FIT IN 2021

CHANGE OF SCENE

NEW BUILDS MAKING AN IMPACT

ISSUE 274 / NEW YEAR 2021 / £3

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE: Hillside property, on page 62;

BELOW: Bluebells Cockleshells, on page 22

elcome to our first issue of 2021. Normally this issue is all about new beginnings, fresh outlooks, starting over – you get my drift. Of course, this year is different; we’re still very much in the throes of last year’s struggles. The wheels do keep turning though, and for some they whizz round just that little bit faster. Veronica Gosling (our cover star) is an artist who painted ferociously throughout the first lockdown, creating bold pieces to keep her spirits up. Not one to keep still, she also started up an online creative hub and got the local community involved in her arts display outside her house. Turn to page 10 to read the full interview with this inspiring woman. Elsewhere in this issue, we take a look at the food businesses that, despite the odds, launched restaurants in Exeter last year (page 30); we go for a nosey around the new builds emerging nearby (page 53); and we chat to the artistic duo who are telling stories through the medium of sculptures and bookbinding (page 22). Until next time, go easy on yourselves this January. We continue to share the good, positive stuff from the city on Twitter and Instagram, along with our hashtag #ExeterTogether so do tag us with your good news or look us up if you need a bit of a lift. #ExeterTogether, always.

HARRIET NOBLE Follow us on Twitter @ExeterLiving

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Issue 274/New Year 2021 COVER Veronica Gosling of Studio 36. Image by Jim Wileman, see page 10.

UPFRONT

6 SPOTLIGHT Positive news to put a spring in your step 8 JP HEDGE Home schooling...again

COVER FEATURE

10 STUDIO 36 Meet artist extraordinaire Veronica Gosling

and her amazing art space

THE ARTS

17 ARTS INTRO Hanging bicycles? Yes please 18 WHAT’S ON The cultural wheels keep turning 22 SCULPTURE & BOOKS The artistic duo make

SHOPPING

27 INTRO THE winter coat 28 EDITOR’S CHOICE How to work Pantone’s colours

of 2021

FOOD & DRINK

30 NEW OPENINGS Restaurants that launched in 2020 34 RECIPES Winter warmers 39 NEWS More openings!

their mark

WELLBEING

40 EXERCISE Motivation to get that bod moving

BUSINESS

45 EXETERWORKS All the top business stories

PROPERTY

51 NEW BUILDS Exeter property goes modern 61 NEWS All the latest developments 62 SHOWCASE Victorian semi meets Scandi minimalism

REGULARS

66 EXETER LIVES Say hello to Arina Fox

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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SPOTLIGHT

City

SHINE A LIGHT

A massive, hand-drawn animation of an unpaid carer will be projected onto a building in Exeter this February to celebrate the millions who work around the clock caring for family and friends at home. Spotlight on Care is an emotive contemporary art project inspired by a collaboration between Exeterbased illustrator-animator Leo Jamelli and University of Exeter academics, Dr Siobhan O’Dwyer and Dr Catriona McKenzie. The two-storey-high animation, to be projected onto the Exeter Phoenix after dark, aims to give recognition to the growing army of unpaid carers whose work saves the government £132 billion a year. The imposing installation will quite literally shine a light on those who provide ongoing care for family members and friends with long-term illnesses and disabilities. Artist Leo Jamelli – who helped care for his father for five years after he suffered a severe stroke – aims to create a ‘window into the world of carers’. “I want my animations to portray the positive aspects of caring for people, as well as the challenges,” says Leo. “The artwork for the Exeter animation is based on Julia, a mother from the South West, who cares for her profoundly disabled 12-year-old son Harrison. It captures a small moment in their day when she is cradling Harrison and smiling at him before she puts him to bed. It’s important to all of us involved in this

project that we celebrate the role of carers, as well as shining a light on their growing needs.” Dr Siobhan O’Dwyer from the University of Exeter leads Caring through Coronavirus, the rapidresponse research on carers’ experiences of the pandemic which is being shared with government departments, charities and social care providers. “Unpaid carers are the invisible scaffolding holding up the NHS and social care in the UK,” says Dr O’Dwyer. “Even if you just spend a few moments in front of Leo’s work, it’s hard not to be moved by it. The installations will also be filmed, so anyone who can’t experience them in person can view them online.” Spotlight on Care will also be screened at Exeter Phoenix on 4 and 5 February 2021. For more: www.exeter.ac.uk / www.leojamelli.co.uk/ www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

above: You can catch the projection online too; below: Illustrator-animator Leo Jamelli

Artist Sam Boughton: in sitting colour

Award

ART AND SOUL

Artist Sam Boughton has been chosen from all the exhibitors at the South West Academy’s Reflections 2020 exhibition as the winner of annual Brownston Gallery Award. Sam works out of her studio in Teignmouth and finds inspiration from the dramatic landscapes nearby. “When I feel a strong connection with a particular place, I make regular visits to experience it at different times,” says Sam. “This was particularly so during lockdown and the start of the Covid restrictions. The more I studied the same place, the more I became compelled to draw and make marks in different ways. I work fast and fearlessly in inks and pastels to capture the movement and energy of the particular moment and my emotional reaction to it. “I entered these recent paintings into the SWA Reflections exhibition and was so thrilled to discover not only was I selected but I had won the Brownston Gallery Award. So exciting!” Sam Boughton’s work will form part of The South West Academy Exhibition 2021 at the Brownston Gallery, Modbury from 19 March - 17 April. For more: www.brownstonart.com

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Literature

WORD UP

Exeter’s literary organisation Quay Words is linking up with Poetry Africa Festival to form a programme of new and exciting literature for 2021. Jointly, between March and November, Quay Words and Poetry Africa will host a total of five free online networking, writer development and showcase days, celebrating writing by women in the UK and South Africa. Each of the five days will include a professional development session for four selected emerging writers, a larger informal networking event, and an early evening reading that pairs a UK-based writer with a South Africa-based writer. The programme launches on 8 March 2021, International Women’s Day, with a live event featuring South Africa-based Efemia Chela, who is the Quay Words/English PEN digital writer-in-residence for February 2021 and Louisa Adjoa-Parker, who was the inaugural Quay Words writer-in-residence in July 2019. The project concludes on 25 November 2021,

The literature programme launches on 8 March

UN International Day for the Eradication of Violence Against Women and the launch in South Africa of 16 days of supporting activism. This collaboration comes as Quay Words at Exeter Custom House receives a British Council ‘Working Internationally’ grant to work with the Poetry Africa Festival in Durban, which in 2021 celebrates its 25th festival. Exeter and Durban are both UNESCO Cities of Literature.

“It’s thrilling to be able to pair Quay Words in Exeter with the wonderful work of Poetry Africa in Durban during the year of the 25th festival,” says Helen Chaloner, CEO of Literature Works. “We can put our shared experience of digital delivery to great use, pairing emerging and established writers in the two cities to create dialogue and to ignite inspiration.” For more: www.exetercustomhouse.org.uk

Our furry friends like living in Devon

Creative

STUDENT SKILLS

Top-level campaign

The new advertising campaign for Devon Air Ambulance has been designed by students at University of Exeter and their international peers from across the Atlantic at the Ontario College of Art & Design University (OCAD) and Simon Fraser University. The creative team of students first approached the charity hoping to gain some valuable experience by producing advertising footage to support the local life-saving service, while also showcasing their creative skills. Devon Air Ambulance was beginning to make plans for an advertising campaign that would attract a younger age group and felt that a collaboration with the students could give them first-hand insight into the demographic. “We are so pleased to have had the opportunity to work with such a professional, creative and genuinely talented group of students on this project,” says Ginette Gisborne who led the project on behalf of DAA. For more: www.daat.org

Nature

NEST-DOOR NEIGHBOURS

One of the UK’s rarest mammals appears to be thriving in a wildlife-rich Devon woodland owned by animal welfare charity The Donkey Sanctuary. Signs that hazel dormice were nesting were found in nest boxes during routine checks at Pig Wood at The Donkey Sanctuary’s Paccombe Farm in East Devon last month. Hazel dormice are officially classed as vulnerable in the UK and their populations have plummeted by more than 50 per cent since 2000. “Hazel dormouse populations are vulnerable to habitat fragmentation and degradation,” says Ruth Angell, ecology and conservation manager at The Donkey Sanctuary. “Finding them apparently doing well at The Donkey Sanctuary is fantastic and reinforces the importance of continuing to care for our semi-natural habitats to support this and many other wildlife species.” For more: www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk

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OPINION JP HEDGE

We can do this JP ruminates on the return of home schooling

appy New Year. Lol. The guilt is back. That constant gentle but forceful nagging that you should be doing something else, something better, at this particular moment. I’m writing this in the days after the city has been plunged into another full on lockdown. I fully expected a host of new measures and restrictions were coming – just not the full lockdown that was announced or the pace with which it was implemented. On Monday my children had returned back to school and nursery. They were incredibly happy thanks to the extraordinary eﬀorts of amazing teachers moving heaven and earth to keep them engaged and safe. The joy that we might be able to muddle through January in this new fashion was short lived.

Only seconds into the PM speaking on the announcement and my WhatsApp went wild from friends and colleagues processing the implications of the news. I do this in my own head too. When my wife Stacey said we were expecting for the ﬁrst time, I had to work through the impact of the next 18 years. I’m sure that is normal right? When the PM was speaking mostly mums, brilliant, strong, insightful women in my team and wider, were trying to work out how on earth to juggle life this spring with schools closed. Our household is tricky but I’m fortunate with my own circumstances compared to most. It doesn’t however stop the monkey bashing the symbols in my head. That battle of the mind is pretty simple.

“Not even Mary bloomin’ Poppins faced home schooling in a pandemic with kite ﬂying” 8 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Looking superb, JP and daughter Mollie

My brain suggests that if you are at work, you should be with your children. When I am with my children, now eight and three, I feel I should be at work. Clear structures, defined boundaries and routine are obviously the clear route out. I have a budget of millions and hundreds of projects on the go – you would think that a little school work added to the day wouldn’t be a big drama. In reality, they were fine for the first five minutes. I think that as soon as Netflix’s ‘are you still watching?’ message of doom comes, you’ve know it is game over for a balanced environment to nurture young minds. Cue over compensation, misfire of emotions, and a general sense of not being enough in any quarters. This is less than a week into our bright new year of 2021. So I’m saying this as much for my own benefit as anything else – we’ve got this. You’ve got this. Parents of Exeter – we have done this before. You are enough. Don’t listen to that inner monologue. You were enough last time – and you are certainly enough now. Not even Mary bloomin’ Poppins faced home schooling in a pandemic with kite flying. You have already mastered your primitive role to keep you family safe from this horrendous virus. The things you can control, you have controlled. We have backup and inspiration for the rest, from brilliant Exeter teachers, bloggers, books and tech. I’m looking forward to when,

what seems a disaster now, will make a conversational piece over the dinner table. The tale of the time the children walked into the Zoom call naked. The time Daddy gave Mollie (three) whipped cream and marshmallows for breakfast and then headed to the office to leave my wife in charge of the consequences. And don’t get me started on permanent marker pens. To the wider city, I’m sorry we are having to hunker down for longer than we hoped. The Exeter Living Business Club webinar session in December showed just how many organisations are working flat out to support people. There are now no less than nine grants for business to apply for – so please do if you haven’t already. Support is also available in terms of access to food and prescriptions, wellbeing support and a network of volunteering groups in communities across the city. The city does this really well. Please get in touch with Exeter Community Wellbeing on 01392 265000 if you need help. Many staff manning those lines usually work at your favourite things in the city, now closed, but are committed to helping you. Everyone will be doing it from their homes. We’ll try and keep the children with permanent markers to a minimum. Parents of Exeter – you are enough. ■ Jon-Paul Hedge is a director at Exeter City Council where he currently looks after leisure. He is a former newspaper editor and lives in the city with his wife and two young children. www.exeter.gov.uk

COLOUR INSTINCT Veronica Gosling has created something very special with Studio 36. The art space celebrates the unusual and the vibrant, oďŹ&#x20AC;ering visitors an experience that is as uplifting as it is unexpected. Here, artist and all-round community hero Veronica tells us how it all started... By Harriet Noble Images by Jim Wileman

Veronica in her sculpture garden

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INTERVIEW

f you haven’t been inside Studio 36, there’s a good chance you’ve walked past it and marvelled at the Get on Board noticeboard showcasing local art. Wishing to contribute to her own community of Newtown & St Leonards, artist Veronica Gosling started a project encouraging local artists, and writers, young and old, to unlock their thoughts, feelings and observations by sharing artwork, photos, poems and stories on the board – for all to see. Step inside the building and you’re in Studio 36, the art space owned and run by Veronica. Oh, and it’s also her home. Look around and you’ll find a space which, as one person on her website aptly comments, has “Veronica’s personality on every surface”. There are sculptures, paintings, pottery, charcoal drawings coming at you from every angle here, a piano (which, depending on when you come, might have someone tinkering away on it) and a sculpture garden and garage-turned-shop. Everywhere you look there is colour, albeit in chaotic form. Veronica’s great skill is making this space somewhere people want to spend time in; visitors come for the atmosphere as much as for the art that’s on offer to purchase. As well as holding exhibitions here, she hosts informal performances from groups of local musicians, poets, and dancers. She also hosts Budding Friends, a supportive initiative of Age UK Exeter; people with alzheimers and their carers come and paint for an hour and then chat over a cup of tea and some biscuits. And during lockdown, Veronica started up a project called House Lights

Veronica’s paintings adorn the walls

On where friends of Studio 36 shared their thoughts and creative works online, forming a supportive digital hub for each other. Taking it easy is clearly not on Veronica’s agenda, that’s for sure. Come rain or shine, lockdown or no lockdown, Veronica brings people together and never stops being creative. What was your vision when setting up Studio 36?

I had already run an informal gallery in the Forest of Dean so from our six acres of scrub to a large wild garden in Exeter it suited me and all the things I brought with me. I didn’t think, ‘I’m going to set up a gallery’, I thought ‘which trees shall I hang which sculptures from, which area of this large house will contain the paintings, cards, pottery, sculptures that I have, which space will be a studio’ and while builders were still turning a successful care home into a house with certain exhibition requirements I decided to have a show, using one room to show work by a couple of friends and my potter daughter-inlaw. I moved here in September 2003 and so began to meet likeminded people. I called it Gallery 36, and continued as best I could doing what I usually do, that is transform that which I see and do into some sort of artistic medium. How did you settle on Exeter?

My husband died, our children were off doing their own thing, my oldest son Jonathan was working at the University here, his daughters at school, his wife a potter, and they were helping me a lot, and I thought I should, with his huge help, try and make a new life. I particularly like the quay, and I very much like the ease and speed at which the lovely countryside is available.

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INTERVIEW

“I bash on with an idea and as much destruction as construction goes on” What made you want to open the studio?

My father was a writer and my mother sculpted so I feel a bit like a sheepdog that is bred to herd sheep: I mean my breeding makes me obsessional about doing, making and recording. I’ve had no formal art training, I don’t consider myself a proper artist, I bash on with an idea and as much destruction as construction goes on in my life leading to intense despair and sometimes huge relief. Studio 36 has been described as having the feel of a carnival...

For me it is a space I immediately have a need to fill. I have no reputation to keep up, so I just think of something, and do it. I found an old shoe so put it on the trunk of a tree that is somewhat lopsided but hasn’t fallen down yet, and then other shoes appeared and went on the tree until a trail of discarded shoes suddenly became a quite interesting sight as, uninhabited they set off up this tree trunk. At the top I made some legs, with fibre glass, and they are stepping off the trunk towards a shed. What might catch our eye when we wander around?

A huge sculpted yellow bird stands atop a shelter in the garden, and a host of other birds, some with Texas longhorn beaks ( I have a son who works in Texas) are on the grass around, brightly painted with fork legs so easily moved and plonked here and there. A scrapwood man hangs from a tree, with an umbrella, swinging happily in the wind as do a few other characters. Tell us about some of the work you do with other creatives… opposite page, top: Cheerful paintbrushes; opposite page, below: The art

continues outside; top: Toast-inspired piece of art; top right: Studio 36 with the Get on Board art visible; above: The sculpture garden

I do collaborate with poets, musicians and writers to produce performances. We have done quite a few, the latest we have performed at St Sidwells Community Centre, who are hugely helpful and produce a great interval supper.

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INTERVIEW

“Lockdown has made me more driven” What are your plans for 2021?

I would love to print a small sketchbook-style publication at some point about the time with this project. How did 2021 impact you creatively?

Lockdown has made me more driven; I’ve become obsessed with my work. It helps me to stop thinking about the situation we’re all in, and stops me feeling lonely. I like meeting new people and sharing this place with them. It’s a shame we can’t do that at the moment. Every time we have an exhibition, the place is full. I think people enjoy the informality of the gallery and garden. n Once it is permitted, Veronica will be opening the sculpture garden for private bookings for small groups, prior booking is necessary; 36 Denmark Road, St Leonards, Exeter; www.studio36exeter.co.uk

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top: Veronica painting colourful jugs;

above: Household items turned into intriguing pieces of art

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

RIDING HIGH Crane your neck up and you’ll probably do a double-take. No, it’s not an optical illusion or reﬂection oﬀ the water but a hanging sculpture, courtesy of artist Veronica Gosling of Studio 36 (see page 10) whose works spills out onto her sculpture garden, including this bicycle piece. “People used to bring me their old bikes which I’d paint and hang from trees, and it just happened that these two bikes were the same model, so I hung them as you see here quite high on a tree,” says Veronica. “When I moved [to Exeter] the bikes came too, and I still hang bikes, and quite a lot of things from trees,” says Veronica. Why not. Veronica runs open days by appointment. Studio 36, 36 Denmark Road, St Leonards, Exeter; www.studio36exeter.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 17

Katie Harrison (and her pooch) will be holding online classes at Revitalize

WHAT’S ON 15 January onwards

ART/ HISTORY Until 22 February

IN PURSUIT…AN EXHIBITION OF SPORTING AND MOVEMENT This time, like no other, has made us appreciate the outdoors whether walking, running, cycling, skiing, rowing, swimming or kite flying. This exhibition sees artists bring those activities, that energy, with colourful and complex linocuts and delicately crafted etchings and engravings. It’s all about energy and feeling uplifted, this one. You can view (and purchase) all art pieces online. Brook Gallery; www.brookgallery.co.uk

Until 13 March

WORK IN STOCK: GALLERY ARTISTS Hybrid Gallery exhibits figurative painting and sculpture by living artists, some have a narrative thread and often there’s a degree of quirk. This year they’ve got a bumper selection from their gallery artists which they’ll be showcasing online and in the gallery when permitting. Hybrid Gallery; www.hybrid-devon.co.uk

15 January

STRAIGHT LACED: CORSETRY THROUGH THE AGES Join author Jill Salen to learn about corsets which have been used to create fashionable silhouettes for centuries. This workshop will delve into whalebone, cording, lacing and flossing as well as exploring the history of the production of these garments. Staid, upright and straight laced are all terms whose roots lie in corsetry; while the 21st century sees them as acceptable bridal and evening wear, Jill will look at the many varied styles and types of corsets, as well as some unexpected explanations as to why they were worn. 10am-12.30pm, £15, RAMM (Zoom event); www.exeterramm.admit-one.eu

18 February

GIRTIN IN DEVON Not familiar with Tom Girtin? He was a friend of famed painter Turner and in his short life rivalled him as an innovator. He visited Devon in the late 1790s and again around 1800-1801, but the

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

watercolours derived from these tours are not as well-known as they should be. This talk places them in the context of artistic tourism in Devon at the turn of the century and reflects on Girtin’s contribution to the practice of watercolour. 1.30pm-2.30pm, £8, RAMM (Zoom event); www.exeterramm.admit-one.eu

of an election and a year like no other. Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival (online event); Tickets costs £10 per household, or £25 including a discounted signed copy of Jon’s book; www.budlitfest.org.uk

LITERATURE

POETRY AND REMINISCENCE WORKSHOP WITH CALEB PARKIN Across four free online sessions, explore the poetry of the elements: earth, water, fire and air. You’ll hear classic elemental poems: the ‘foam and glitter’ of Heaney’s coastline and Robert Frost’s snowy woods. There will also be contemporary poems which are solid, flowing, passionate and gutsy in their gustiness! The elements crop up all the time in language – ‘solid as a rock’ or ‘burning with desire’ – or through appearances in pop songs from Light My Fire to Bridge Over Troubled Water. As well as hearing a range of poems, these everyday examples will springboard the creation of your own poems, which

18 – 22 January

BUDLEIGH SALTERTON LITERARY FESTIVAL: UNPRESIDENTED WITH JON SOPEL The BBC North America Editor will be talking to The Guardian columnist, Jonathan Freedland, days ahead of the inauguration of Joe Biden. Sopel will discuss the most extraordinary election in US history outlined in his latest book (UnPresidented: politics, pandemics and the race that Trumped all others) as he take us behind the scenes of a White House in crisis and an election in turmoil, expertly laying bare the real story of the presidential campaign in a panoramic account

19 and 26 January, 2 and 9 February

WHAT’S ON you’ll be guided through step by step. 2-3.30pm, Quay Words, Exeter Custom House (Zoom event); www.exetercustomhouse.org.uk

2 February

IN CONVERSATION: HELEN FIELDS AND LOUISE SHARLAND An international best-selling author, Helen is a former criminal and family law barrister. Helen will be discussing her next book, the sixth in the series, Perfect Kill which is due out on 6 February. Louise will be chatting about her adult psychological thriller The Lake, which will be published by Avon Books in March 2021. Louise is fascinated with exploring ideas and themes around why good people do bad things, and her experience working with people who have experienced homelessness gives her work a strong humanitarian and social justice theme. Above all, Louise wants to tell a good story that is entertaining, thought provoking and well written. 7pm, Facebook live video event: @Exeter Library

9 February

above:

below:

Bonne Journee! by Lisa Takahashi, showing online at Brook Gallery; Cox’s Eye View by Paul Cleden, showing online at Brook Gallery

IN CONVERSATION: MEL SHERRATT Mel Sherratt is the author of thirteen crime novels, all of which have become bestsellers. For the past four years, she has been named as one of her hometown of Stoke-on-Trent’s top 100 influential people. She also works alongside the National Literary Trust as an ambassador on The Literary Project, to support their ongoing work in the city, aiming to raise literacy levels. Senior supervisor Karen from Exeter Library will be chatting to Mel about her career in writing and her latest book Good Girl. 7pm, Facebook live video event: @Exeter Library

EXERCISE AND WELLBEING Throughout January and February

JAZZERCISE Blending dance with pilates, yoga, kickboxing and strength training, these one 55-minute sessions are the

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WHAT’S ON ultimate dance party workout. You don’t have to be super fit or dance like a Strictly pro, all that matters is your get-upand-go. Classes are everyday at a variety of times. Pre-booking is necessary. Jazzercise (online session); www.jazzerciseexeter.com

Throughout January and February

YOGA MASTERCLASS Sign up to a monthly subscription of yoga masterclass virtual studio sessions and get unlimited access to more than 50 yoga classes, with new ones added every week. Classes available for beginner, intermediate and advanced students, durations ranging from

15 to 90 minutes. Yoga Masterclass (online sessions); www.yogamasterclass.com

Jon Sopel will be chatting at the Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival

Throughout January and February

REVITALIZE STUDIOS The Topsham studio provides all manner of relaxing and energising classes for those keen to get their body moving in a friendly and fun atmosphere. Classes include power yoga, ballet fitness, aerial yoga, pilates, kids acro dance – great for all fitness levels. Their classes are online at the moment and prior booking is necessary. Revitalize Studios (online sessions); revitalizestudios.com n

COMING UP IN 2021… APRIL Exeter Corn Exchange is hosting great music and chat gigs in the spring. On 10 April the acerbic, not-for-everyone Jimmy Carr will be firing out his one-liners, while affable Madness frontman Suggs will be chatting about his life and journey in music on 11 April. The Simon and Garfunkel Story comes to Exeter Corn Exchange on 12 April. With a backdrop of projected photos and original film footage, a full life band will perform the greatest hits telling the story of the folky duo. Exeter Northcott Theatre will also be hosting The Gruffalo’s Child (15-17 April), Jenny Eclair (17 April), and Stricly’s Giovannie Pernice (18 April).

Jimmy Carr is coming to Exeter

Jenny Eclair will be bringing the laughs at Exeter Northcott Theatre

MAY It’s a chock-a-block month of comedy at Exeter Corn Exchange. On 2 May, Britain’s Got Talent favourite Lee Ridley (aka Lost Voice Guy) will be providing the laughs, comedy tour de force Reginald D. Hunter will taking to the stage on 12 May, while Sindhu Vee: Alphabet will be delivering her razor sharp material on 21 May. Elsewhere, May sees Cygnet Theatre kickstarting their 40th Anniversary Season (it will run through to July) which will offer theatre, comedy, music and workshops and ‘In conversation with...’ and Q&A events; and David Baddiel will be at Exeter Norchcott Theatre on 1 May taking on the dreaded internet trolls. JUNE Exeter Respect Festival is the city’s annual celebration of diversity. Having had to host their festival online this year, 2021 will see them celebrating back in Belmont Park on 5-6 June. The theme will be environmental justice; expect much music, dance and joy.

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JULY Remember gigs? Powderdam Castle is hosting some tiptop ones in the summer. First up is their Let’s Rock gig on 3 July. This is your chance to unashamedly get lost in nostalgia as you’ll be entertained by pop icons including Adam Ant, Wet Wet Wet, ABC, Kim Wilde, Tony Hadley, T’Pau and more. Singer and all-round good chap Olly Murs will be singing at the Castle on 8 July with special guests from The Feeling, while everyone’s favourite crooner Michael Bublé will be lulling audiences on 9 July. The Devon County Show – normally scheduled for May but this year happening on 3-4 July – will also be back with a bang. “Our fans missed out on 2020 so we’re going to pull everything out of the bag to make the show happen in 2021 along with as many of the trimmings to mark a great milestone in our history – the 125th Show,” says show manager, Sam Mackenzie. For the foodies out there, The Source Trade Show will be making a return to Westpoint on 8-9 July. Talks, exhibitions and, yes, lots of food and drink handouts.

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ART

PLAY TIME

Mid-action sculptures evoking fairy tales, books bound from objects found on Budleigh Salterton beach. Artistic partnerships don’t get more unusual (or beautiful) than this… By Harriet Noble

ennifer Mosley makes sculptures from mixed media, all inspired by fairy tales and childhood memories. Her partner Benjamin Knibbs is a self-taught bookbinder who makes books from natural objects found on Budleigh Salterton Beach and local woodlands. Together they form The Wren and the Writing Desk. Their works, though very different from each other, evoke times of yesteryear; you could say you expect to open one of Benjamin’s books and discover one of Jennifer’s sculptures on the pages. Art and books have always complemented each other – each telling their own story. We chat to Jennifer to find out more about these storybook creations…

Jennifer, tell us about your joint business...

The Wren and the Writing Desk is an online gallery of the art and craft work my partner Benjamin Knibbs and I launched in July 2019. When we were looking for the name of our business, we wanted to find something that encompassed both our disciplines. I have always loved Alice in Wonderland and took the Mad Hatter’s riddle “Why is a raven like a writing desk?” and combined with “Jenny Wren” it seemed fitting as it suggests all things bibliophilic. Benjamin is a self-taught bookbinder and creates journals by hand. He uses materials that are often overlooked or dismissed as not suitable for bookbinding. Natural materials often have flaws, and these imperfections are to be celebrated, such as flaking paint or patina on salvaged wood, a trace that can tell a story. Benjamin’s mission is to seek out materials that are sustainable, leave a light environmental footprint and to create books that can last a lifetime.

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What about your artistic background…

I graduated from Dartington College of Arts in 1999 with a BA (Hons) degree in Visual Performance. This background afforded me the opportunity to develop my skills with performance art, installation and time-based media: crossing boundaries of existing disciplines. During my Art foundation year, I was steering towards Set Design although I finally chose Dartington College of Arts On the Stroke of Midnight depicts because of the varied course content it had Cinderella running to offer, which gave me the opportunity to from the ball study several art disciplines. At Dartington I was working on large installations, with fairy tale themes, involving childhood memories and the uncanny. Through research I discovered books by Marina Warner and Angela Carter, and both explore different figures in the arts, myths and fairy tales. What is the inspiration for your pieces?

When looking back at my childhood I cannot avoid recalling all the fairy tale connections. Throughout my childhood my dad would spend most of his time in his workshop which was full of incredible objects that he had collected over the years. Our dining room was a miniature museum of automata which Dad had created: witches riding in carriages, a magician doing card tricks and blowing bubbles, a young girl holding a bird and moving as if singing. My Mum would read fairy tales to me creating the voices of the characters. On my eighth Christmas I received a beautifully illustrated Grimm’s fairy tale book, which I still treasure. My interest in fairy tales returned to me as an adult. They are a link with my childhood, when everything was a learning experience, and I was over-imaginative and a daydreamer. I discovered that most fairy tales are quite horrific; this juxtaposed with their childlike innocence is what drew me to them once again.

“My intention is to capture a moment from a fairy tale, as an illustrator would do”

Bluebells Cockleshells

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ART

clockwise: Old Tree Swing; Jennifer with her

fairy tale creations; Jennifer working on the sculpture of the two girls skipping

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above: Bookbinder Benjamin Knibbs; right:

Jennifer’s Come with me where dreams are born and time is ever planned; Benjamin’s Beach combers book and Monterey pine bark book

Tell us about the materials you use?

I begin with a wire- frame, then use paper and a plaster mix, followed by a rust oxidisation paint finish. I chose to work with these materials due to the delicate and fragile appearance. The rust represents deterioration, accentuating the fragility of childhood memories and how they fade with time. I also used the gold paint to accentuate Cinderella’s transformation and the sun on the figure of Icarus. I finish by encasing them in a dome, archiving them, as a museum would do with a fragile object that would deteriorate over time. Lots of your pieces express a moment that is in movement. What are you trying to capture?

That is exactly it: my intention is to capture a moment from a fairy tale, as an illustrator would do. I feel that the materials I have chosen to use enable me to capture a movement rather than a static moment which hopefully creates a more interesting, and captivating sculpture. If I chose materials of a heavier nature such as cast bronze or clay, I would not be able to achieve the same effect. Do you have a clear idea of what you want your piece to look like each time?

Yes, I do have a fairly good idea of how they will look. I begin by exploring different fairy tales and choosing a moment in the story that I feel would be visually interesting: Peter Pan and Wendy flying, Cinderella running from the Ball, Karen under the spell of the red shoes. I also bounce ideas off Ben at this stage. I am not one to do many sketches beforehand although I do note down my ideas. Your pieces can be seen as both beautiful and sad…

I am pleased they can be seen in this way. My intention is to try and capture the original tone of a fairy tale, which were used as a moral guidance to children. Fairy tales contain both childhood innocence with the sometimes terrifying and macabre, provoking a feeling of unease and the uncanny, which is the feeling I hope to create. n Jennifer’s sculptures and Benjamin’s books can be viewed and purchased online at www.thewrenandthewritingdesk.com and at www.folksy.com/shops/thewrenandthewritingdesk

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SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

OLIVE YOU SO MUCH Nail winter sophistication with this beautiful recycled coat from Sancho’s. Taking inspiration from traditional Kung Fu styles, this wrap coat features two large pockets and a side wrap fastening. Stretching to the knee with a loose ﬁt, pair this coat with your favourite chunky knit and jeans. A classic look with a modern twist. Kung Fu Wrap Komodoc Coat from Sancho’s. This coat is part of a transparent pricing collection, meaning you get to choose from diﬀerent price options. Sancho’s, 117 Fore Street, Exeter; www.sanchosshop.com

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RETREAT HOME GREY PLANT POT WITH WHITE HEART, £8.95 Keep your herbs happy in this homely container; no matter what your home décor is like, this little pot will ﬁt right in. From Leaf Street, 53 Magdalen Road, Exeter; www.leafstreet.co.uk DORIA BOW HEADBAND, £18 Brighten up your winter wardrobe with this sunny mustardy-yellow zinger. From Busby & Fox, 21 Cathedral Yard, Exeter; www.busbyandfox.com

Swatches of Illuminating and Ultimate Grey

MODERN MIXTURE

For 2021, the powers at Pantone Colour Institute have selected two shades as the new Colour of the Year: ‘Ultimate Grey’ and ‘Illuminating Yellow’. Sunshine and fortitude are on the trend forecast, and here’s our pick of local products to match…

BY THE LIGHT OF THE SILVERY MOON, £40 Textile artist Alison Whateley’s Giclee ﬁne art print is from an original textile artwork depicting grasses and teazles. Look closely and you can see the texture and stitching of the original piece. From Alison Whateley Design; available on Etsy: Alison Whateley

LEMON CERAMIC MUG, £6.99 Make tea-time a little sunnier with this glazed (and dishwasher safe) mug. From Insideout, 1 Bampfylde Street, Exeter; www.insideouthome.co.uk

SHY LION, £12 The perfect friendly furry creature to adorn your kid's walls. From Jane Foster Designs; www. janefoster.co.uk

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BUTTERFLY LACE CUSHION, £29 This 100 per cent cotton cushion cover comes in powder grey with a natural diamond and butterﬂy print, and a pom pom trim for good measure. From Toot Garouk, 19 Queen Street, Exeter; www.tootgarook.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE RAINBOW LOVE HEART KNITTED SWEATER, £40 Knitted by hand to ensure the perfect ﬁt, using the best wool yarn to make it a snuggly, longlasting dog jumper for your pup. From The Distinguished Dog Co; www.theddcompany.com HAND FELTED SHEEP WOOL CAT COCOONS, £35.95-£43.95 Make your cat the envy of feline high society with this warm, cosy and stylish cocoon. From Kedron Pet and Garden, Matford Business Park, Exeter; www.kedronpetandgarden.co.uk

RECYCLED PLASTIC SHOPPERS, £25 Braided by hand using 70 per cent recycled plastic, these beautiful bags are strong and oﬀer enough room for your daily groceries or for a day to the beach. Alternatively, they can work at home for pretty storage containers. From Boka, 3 High Street, Crediton; www.bokaonline.co.uk

LEATHER BELT WITH RED EDGE, £89 (IN STORE ONLY) Exude sunshine from your middle with this happy handsewn belt. From RBM The Beltmakers, TBM - The Belt Makers, 119 Fore Street, Exeter; www.thebeltmakers.com for bespoke belts

MUSTARD DRESS, £499 Sensational draping takes centre stage with this sophisticated number. Perfect for all those rescheduled weddings we’re looking forward to. From Julia’s Collection, 6 Roman Walk, Princesshay, Exeter; www.juliascollection.co.uk

YELLOW WATER BOTTLE, £19.95 Made from stainless steel, the 500ml bottle comes complete with a bamboo ﬁnish on the screw top lid and a handle that allows you to clip it to your bag or belt loop. Perfect for hiking trips in Devon. From Hyde and Seek, Unit 1, Harlequins, 1 Paul Street, Exeter; www.hydeseek.co.uk

EGOS SLIPPERS IN NATURAL GREY, £39 Handmade from pure wool and using eco-friendly dyes to protect the Earth, these slippers are insulated whilst allowing your feet to breathe, keeping your tootsies warm and comfy throughout winter. From Sancho’s, 117 Fore Street, Exeter; www.sanchosshop.com

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FOOD

NEVER BACK DINE

Shell we eat? A creation from the Taco boys

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Who’d open up a restaurant during a pandemic? Turns out, quite a few. We meet the people behind these Exeter businesses who, undeterred by the present challenges, are cooking up a storm

“We couldn’t aﬀord a restaurant so bought a horse box”

Welcoming smiles at STAGE

STAGE, TACO BOYS Magdalen Road recently welcomed STAGE, a new concept restaurant run by the TACO BOYS. The team tell us about starting the business on the beach, minamalist menus and making their guests happy Tell about your journey to opening STAGE?

We started the Taco Boys dream when we were running the St. Enodoc hotel in Rock, formerly run by Nathan Outlaw (two Michelin starred) and Clare Smyth (first and only female to run a three Michelin starred kitchen) so it had some rep. Kim and Tina, who owned the hotel and had worked with Clare and Nathan, brought us in to see out their last year at the Enodoc and when they found a buyer we took it as our cue to go it alone. We couldn’t afford a restaurant so bought a horse box, and we didn’t have any running water so couldn’t wash plates. So we made Tacos instead, a handheld plate where we could serve up our latest ideas in a portable format on the beach. Two years later we had enough money to get a restaurant. We hit Exeter, launched STAGE after the second lockdown and are pretty stoked to be here. What customer experience are you hoping to create?

We just want people to have a good time and not at the expense of anyone else, so that means being responsible and ethical with how we create the customer experience and also being true to ourselves. We know what we would enjoy on a night out; it’s a pretty difficult time for entertainment and hospitality right now so as long as you leave happy we’ve done our job. STAGE is a concept restaurant. Tell us more…

Aha! This does seem to be the most frequently asked question right now. Look up concept and it is defined as an abstract idea. Here is ours – we want this industry to be respected more, there are a lot of issues that we try to target: the first was how chefs and staff are

treated, the unfair wages and the workplace abuse. We are trying to prove that we aren’t servants, but instead craftsmen with a skill and an ability to create. Craftsmen and artists exhibit what they’re trying to say about the world through their medium. Ours is food and this is our STAGE and, trust me, we’ve got some things to say. Your menu is brief – and set on playing cards – what can you reveal?

Expect nothing from the menu, or at least expect to leave satisfied. From the moment you walk in that door we want you to relax and enjoy, just sit back, pick the drinks flight, don’t worry about anything. What have you got planned for 2021?

Trying to plan something in a pandemic is harder than trying to fight this receding hairline. In January we are doing Entangled Life, inspired by Melrin Sheldrake’s award-winning book on mycology. It’s also vegan as we wanted to do veganuary because we care about the future. After that we might do a menu inspired by one of our favourite films. What do you make of Magdalen Road?

It’s super cool to be surrounded by a load of hardworking Exeter business owners and it’s a pretty neat street to be on in terms of having everything you need without having to give your money to the Jeff Bezos of the world. The team at STAGE are currently doing takeaways; in normal times the STAGE tasting menu runs Wednesday-Saturday evenings, the TACO menu runs on Tuesday evening and Friday/Saturday lunchtime; STAGE, 31 Magdalen Road, Exeter; www.thetacoboys.co.uk

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FOOD

DEVON COOKERY SCHOOL

Jazzi Curley is the owner of newly opened DEVON COOKERY SCHOOL. She is now running online cookery classes to help anyone who wants to upskill their culinary talents. So, what’s she got lined up? Hi Jazzi, tell us a bit about your culinary background…

My cheffing journey started in London where I worked for Jamie Oliver for three years both teaching and doing menu development. I did several private cheffing jobs for two years and landed back in Exeter (my home town) and took on the second tutor role at Exeter Cookery school where I taught for three years and introduced lots of new innovative world food courses. What can we look forward to this year at Devon Cookery School…

We have lots of brilliant courses being held in January and February. Need to start from scratch? We have a brilliant back to basics lesson for those that are less confident in the kitchen. Learn how to make some fresh and delicious Vietnamese and Mexican Street Food (very popular courses!). We have several skill-based lessons including fish filleting, jointing poultry and pastry lessons. And if you are feeling fancy you can join our beef wellington class or dinner party secrets lesson. And later on in the year?

We are always thinking of new classes and how we can keep things as seasonal as possible. We also have a wonderful space that we are planning to use as an event/ party hire in the warmer months so keep your eyes peeled for that! What’s the atmosphere like in class?

Our approach is very fun, casual and relaxed. No chef whites or stainless steel in sight. We have kept the country farmhouse feel and we take great pride in making people feel comfortable from the second they arrive. I feel that our lessons are very varied and there is something for everyone. We are located out at Pipers Farm near Cullompton. It is a working farm so we do have animals around depending on which field they are grazing in. All classes are online for now. As soon as is permitted, Jazzi will be welcoming guests to classes onsite at Devon Cookery School, Pipers farm, Cullompton; www.devoncookeryschool.com

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Beef Wellington, lovely to meat you

HOUSE OF BRINE

A new café and restaurant, perched on the water’s edge of Exeter’s historic quay arrived late last year. You can dine on brunches, casual lunches and small plates. Drink coffee – or something harder. We caught up with owner Jodie Sawatzki to find out more…

BOTH IMAGES © MAT T AUSTIN

Opening a restaurant has always been the “big dream” for Jodie

Lockdown 2.0 was announced. The timing was unfortunate, and required quick thinking and commercial agility in order to adapt our offering so suddenly. This was only possible due to the flexibility and immense understanding of our team, and the wonderful support of local people. The hardest thing about opening a new business during the Covid pandemic has been the uncertainty. Understanding if, how and when you can trade is fundamental when making sustainable business decisions, and not having that insight has been tough. Any positives from this time?

Lockdown 2.0, whereby we offered takeaway only, has essentially been an extended soft launch for us! It has given us plenty of time to testdrive our recipes, systems and equipment as well as build our online presence, and drive future bookings. What have you made of the Exeter scene?

The Exeter business and community scene has been so generous with their support and encouragement. We have been blown away by the welcome we have received on the quay, and we are proud to be part of the family. What’s the big dream with your business?

Tell us a bit about your new busines Jodie...

House of Brine was born out of a passion for slow food and gentle living. Our menus showcase traditional methods of preservation and time-honoured traditions inspired by global flavours. Expect vibrant brunches and quality coffee by day, and a bold small plates menu by night. We have plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available too, which have proven very popular. Our bar menu is centred around distinctive wines and South West spirits. Tell us a bit about you..

Devon-girl born and bred! I lived in New Zealand for two years, managing a vineyard restaurant, and this experience underpins my love for all things food and drink – but the allure of Devon proved too strong. I feel very lucky to be able to call such a beautiful place home. What made you decide to start this business?

Opening a café and restaurant has long been “the dream”. Despite the unconventional timing, the idyllic location and enchanting history of 60a Haven Road was an opportunity not to be missed. This year has presented so many challenges, but it has also given me the opportunity to pause and reassess, for which I am grateful. What has it been like, opening up during Covid?

House of Brine opened its doors to the public just five days before

The dream is to be an established café and restaurant on the city’s fabulous hospitality scene; somewhere that you can be assured of a quality meal and warm welcome – time after time. The idea of House of Brine being a “go to” choice for a lazy weekend brunch or a special birthday meal really fills my heart! What kind of ambience are you hoping to create?

I’d like people to feel calm, comfortable and confident when they enter House of Brine. Calmness aided by peaceful water and the sea air rolling up from the Exe, comfort assisted by our wonderful front of house team and confidence that you will leave satisfied. If we come to your restaurant what should we look out for?

I may be biased(!), but I think our brunch menu and small plates menu each offer something unique. So, naturally, you should experience both! Our brunch menu is vibrant, creative and fun. The classics will prevail, but expect contemporary twists too. In the evening, our small plates are flavour heavy-weights, in spite of their size. Expect bold flavours, beautiful presentation and a multi-sensory experience from our open kitchen. Currently, House of Brine is offering takeaways; the restaurant will re-open as soon as it’s permitted to do so. House of Brine, 60a Haven Road, Piazza Terracina, Exeter Quay; www.houseofbrine.co.uk

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RECIPES DUTCH BABY PANCAKES FROM HOUSE OF BRINE SERVES 4 Ingredients 3 large free-range eggs 1 tablespoon of caster sugar 130ml full fat milk 90g plain ﬂour 1 pinch ground cinnamon 1 pinch ground sea salt 1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg The seeds of 1 vanilla bean ½ a grated tonka bean (if you can’t get your hands on these then you can leave it out) 35g melted salted butter

House of Brine, 60a Haven Road, Exeter; www.houseofbrine.co.uk

Method 1. Place 4 x 15cm (rim to rim) cast iron pans into a preheated 220 degrees Celsius oven. Beat the eggs with the sugar using a whisk until white and frothy.

2. Add the rest of the ingredients gently folding until they are combined and then beat the mixture with a stiﬀ spatula until you have a smooth batter that resembles double cream in consistency. If it’s too thick, just add a little extra milk. 3. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil into each pan in the oven when the pans are very hot. 4. Without removing the pans from the oven, add enough batter to ﬁll the pan by a third. 5. Cook for 12-16 minutes until the batter has risen and becomes golden brown. 6. Serve by dusting the whole pan with icing sugar and adding your desired topping. We love chopped banana, fresh berries, a dollop of espresso mascarpone and a drizzle of honey!

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MUSHROOM SOUP FROM JACK IN THE GREEN SERVES 4-6 “I remember mushroom soup fondly from when I was a child. All these years later I still turn to it as a tasty, comforting treat that cooks in just a matter of minutes. In fact, I can’t think of a more soothing or mellow soup. I love the intensely earthy flavours in this recipe – it’s a classic and the truffle oil takes it to a whole new level of luxury. How about serving as an intense pre-dinner appetiser to start a great meal? Decant into espresso cups and top with a soft poached quail egg if you really want to show off.” Craig Griffin, head chef at Jack in the Green, London Road, Exeter; www.jackinthegreen.uk.com

Ingredients 25g dried Ceps (Porcini) 50g butter 1 garlic clove, sliced ½ an onion, finely chopped 400g mixed mushrooms, sliced (button, chestnut, portobello or even a mix of all three) 850ml chicken stock 200ml double cream Thyme sprigs Salt and pepper Truffle oil to serve Method 1. Bring a kettle to the boil, then pour the water over the dried porcini so they are just covered. 2. Heat the butter in a saucepan then gently fry the onion, garlic and thyme for 5 minutes until softened and starting to colour very slightly. Add the porcini and liquid to the onion with the mixed mushrooms and leave to cook for 5 minutes.

3. Pour over the stock and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes. Add in the double cream and return to the boil. Remove from the heat. 4. Carefully pour the soup into a blender (be sure not to overfill) and blend until smooth. Then pass through a fine sieve and set aside. To serve, heat the soup and if you like froth it up with a hand blender. Ladle the soup into bowls or cups and drizzle with a little truffle oil. N.B. If in season and you are lucky enough to have access to a variety of wild mushrooms I’d encourage you to try them. When we use the wild varities at the pub there is inevitably an element of preparation and trimming involved. We save this trim for just such a purpose – freezing down until required. I hate waste and work very hard to ensure that everything is used.

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RECIPES

BONED & ROLLED BRAISED PORK BELLY WITH ROAST BUTTERNUT SQUASH FROM JACK IN THE GREEN SERVES 4 “Historically in Devon we are excellent pig keepers. Proof of this is the year round supply of superb ethically produced pork being reared in the fields surrounding us. At the Jack we try to feature this naturally reared and succulent meat in as many different ways as we can. This is a fabulous dish that we serve on the restaurant menu. The skill here is really down to the butchery and Steve at Country Farm in Ottery St Mary is the king of the boned and rolled pork belly. You can make this at home at any time of the year – squashes and pumpkins aren’t just for autumn!” Craig Griffin, head chef at Jack in the Green, London Road, Exeter; www.jackinthegreen.uk.com Ingredients for your pork ½ of a boned and rolled pork belly, skin off (approx 1.5kg) 1 carrot ½ celery stick 1 large onion 3 bay leaves 6 cloves of garlic 2 star anise A good glug of Mead (not vital but great if you have it) Enough pork/chicken stock to cover (approx 2 litres) A few sprigs of sage and thyme

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Method for your pork 1.Season the boned and rolled belly well with salt and pepper. Heat a large sauté pan with a little oil and sear the pork all over until golden brown. Set to one side. 2. Roughly chop the carrot, celery, garlic and onion. Sauté briskly in the same pan as the pork and add to a large braising pot with the bay, alcohol, herbs and spices. 3. Place your pork into the pot with the vegetables and cover with stock. Bring to a simmer and cook in the oven for 4 hours at 160°C. Remove from the heat and allow the pork to cool in the liquid. 4. Once cooled, gently remove the string with a small pair of scissors. Wrap tightly in cling film to retain a nice, neat round shape. Strain and reserve the braising liquid. Leave the pork belly to set overnight in the fridge. 5. For the sauce, chill the braising liquid overnight. Then, as required, skim off as much fat as possible from the braising liquid, return to the heat and reduce to reach the desired saucelike consistency and keep warm until needed. Ingredients for your butternut purée 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced 60ml double cream 100ml chicken stock A few sprigs of thyme A generous knob of butter Salt and pepper

Method for your butternut purée Peel and dice the butternut squash. Cook in the butter with a sprig of thyme and salt and pepper until it begins to soften. Add the stock and cream and reduce until the liquid has all but gone, stirring frequently. Blend until smooth using a little more cream if necessary. Then pass through a fine sieve using the back of a ladle into a clean pan. Reserve until needed. Ingredients for your roast butternut squash 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced 40g of butter Salt and pepper Pinch of fresh thyme Method for your roast butternut squash Peel the butternut and dice into 1½ cm chunks alternatively use a melon baller for a neat shape. When ready, season and sauté with the thyme until golden brown. To finish Slice the pork into even pieces and season well. Heat a little vegetable oil in the pan and sear the pork belly until golden and crispy. Serve with some hot butternut purée, roasted squash and a little of the reduced sauce drizzled around.

LOIN OF EXMOOR VENISON WITH CHOCOLATE SAUCE FROM JACK IN THE GREEN SERVES 6 “Venison is a true winter meat. Naturally free roaming across the open moor and through forests, a lot of care and understanding is required to maintain a healthy herd of these beautiful beasts. This respect results in a magnificent flavour and beautiful meat that is low in cholesterol and often surpasses even the best cuts of beef. In winter a rare venison loin steak is every bit as good, if not better, than any rib eye, sirloin or fillet. My venison of choice is the red deer largely because of its excellent configuration and depth of flavour. The chocolate sauce may sound an odd inclusion but it really gives the finished sauce a richness much akin to adding butter to the final stages of any meat reduction.” Craig Griffin, head chef at Jack in the Green, London Road, Exeter; www.jackinthegreen.uk.com Ingredients 400g shallots, peeled and roughly chopped 2 cloves of garlic, peeled and roughly chopped 6 sprigs of thyme 2 bay leaves 350ml red wine 1 tsp mixed peppercorns, crushed

1 litre brown chicken stock 15g good quality bitter chocolate, grated Sea salt and freshly milled black pepper Drizzle of olive oil 6 venison steaks cut from the loin about 150g each (trimmed and all sinew removed – your butcher will do this for you. Reserve trim for the sauce). Method for your sauce 1. Sauté the shallots with the herbs, crushed peppercorns (and the venison trim if available) in a little olive oil in a deep sauté pan. Do this over a moderate heat (approx 5 minutes) until they have softened without colouring. 2. Add the red wine and reduce until the liquid has all but evaporated. Then add the brown chicken stock and reduce to a sauce consistency (about 20-25 minutes). Finally pass through a fine sieve into a clean pan. Method for your venison 1. Pre-heat your oven to 180°C and heat an ovenproof frying pan on the hob. Season the venison fillets and seal them well in a little olive

oil over a medium-high heat allowing 1-2 minutes each side. 2. Put the pan in the oven and cook for 3-4 minutes turning half way through. Allow to rest in a warm place for a few minutes before serving. 3. The timings for this are relevant to your own personal tastes – I like my venison served medium-rare and as I have already mentioned it is well worth investing in a meat probe for really accurate cooking temperatures especially if you are spending good money on high quality meat like venison loin. A core temperature of 54°C is about right. To serve While the meat is resting, re-heat the sauce and off the heat whisk in the grated chocolate until it has melted and the sauce is smooth. Make any final adjustments to the sauce’s consistency. Neatly slice the venison and arrange on warmed plates with your accompaniments – a great partner to game is braised red cabbage. Pour the sauce around and serve immediately.

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RECIPES STRAWBERRY & PROSECCO KILNER JAR CHEESECAKE BY CHARLOTTE VINCENT, THE FIVE BELLS INN SERVES 4 Ingredients Biscuits of your choice (I use Biscoff) 500g of mascarpone 500ml of double cream 100g of icing sugar Vanilla seeds (1 pod is enough) 500g of fresh strawberries 200g of caster sugar 100ml of Prosecco Method 1. Start by adding the strawberries to a heavy bottomed pan and cooking on a low heat with the sugar and Prosecco – this can take up to an hour. It should gently bubble away until thickened. You now need to blend the strawberries into a purée, pass through a sieve and return to the pan. 2. A good indicator to know if it’s ready is to place a spoon into the pan and when it’s lifted out, it should coat the back. You are looking to activate the pectin in the fruit. If in doubt, keep cooking on a low heat until it coats the spoon. Then cover and allow to cool. 3. Next, blend up your biscuits of choice (any biscuit will be a good choice; chocolate based biscuits work well with this). Beat the

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mascarpone and sugar together and then add the vanilla. 4. In a separate bowl whip the cream into soft peaks. Fold in the mascarpone, mixing in a little at a time then set aside in the fridge. 5. You can now build your cheesecakes! Always biscuit first, then have some fun with the layers. 6. I pop a layer of the cheese mix and then a drizzle of purée. Then a few more biscuits for a surprise crunch, more purée and then more cheesecake mix. Level off with the back of a spoon.

7. Leave in the fridge for 5 hours. Serve with fresh strawberries or dip them in chocolate for a decadent feel. You can serve this with any good ice cream (vanilla, strawberry, etc), a sweet sorbet or even a good dollop of clotted cream. The Five Bells Inn, Clyst Hydon, Cullompton; www.fivebells.uk.com

FOOD & DRINK NEWS NIBBLES FROM EXETER’S FOOD SCENE

Cheff Matt Mason

OPENING SOON!

Another exciting launch in the pipeline is the opening of Winslade Manor Restaurant and Bar. The restaurant is set in the Grade II listed building in the heart of the parkland of Winslade Park in Clyst St Mary. The team are describing the imminent foodie spot as ‘casual elegant’ which will be offset by the surroundings: decorative high ceilings with original period features, the lounge bar sporting spectacular views across a perfectly manicured lawn, where guests can catch a game of cricket on a warm summer afternoon, whilst sipping a cocktail on the veranda. Matt Mason, formerly of Jack in the Green, will be the head chef and joining him is his partner Jo Mason, who will be the restaurant manager. “Jo and I are immensely proud to have left a legacy at The Jack, and we bring our passion for creating memorable experiences for guests to Winslade Manor Restaurant,” says Matt. “Starting with a complete blank canvas is every chef ’s dream. From the design of the kitchen to the creation of the menus and hand-selecting everything from the crockery, linens, and staff, we’ve had complete carte blanche throughout the entire process, with unprecedented support from the Vida team,” Matt explains. Vida is the operations company behind Exeter’s restaurant; they have further plans for the Winslade Park site, which is presently being developed. “Upon final completion, Winslade Park will be home to a boutique health club, subterranean day spa, onsite childcare facilities, and first class catering,” says Joe Hammond, co-founder of Vida. “The 85-acre site lends itself perfectly to hosting wellbeing and food festivals and open air music concerts. We’re also thrilled to be working with the beautiful Clyst St Mary parish church, in providing wedding receptions at the stunning Manor House and utilising our open spaces. We’re really looking forward to revealing our events plan in 2021, but for now, we’re keeping that under wraps”. For more: Winslade Park, Manor Drive, Clyst St Mary, Devon; www.winsladepark.com

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WELLBEING

FIT TOGETHER

How do you get motivated to exercise in January? And how can you stay fit when the gyms are shut and it’s cold outside? Scott Britton, owner of Move Forward Gym, gives us his top tips Gyms are shut at the moment, what advice can you give people about exercising at home?

Wherever you choose to workout, spend a little time on prepping the area. Your home is your home so try and make it a little more like a gym. Try moving your sound system into the area, pick somewhere that you can be removed from distractions, give as much space to move as possible and plenty of light, natural light is even better. The second is to try and get a routine around your new daily life. Using the workout as a break in the day is a great way to set up instead of seeing the workout as a chore in the day. Even if the workout is just 20 minutes, hitting that at the same time each day where possible creates a new routine and slowly your body will really look forward to that break of sweat. For someone trying to get fit from scratch, where is a good place to start?

Looking for basic movements that are easy to understand and simple timings will help you feel really good about the exercise time. Looking at military, bodyweight and beginner style workouts is a great place to start. One of the biggest challenges in starting exercise is ensuring you stretch and recover. Try to include basic yoga flows and simple stretches in each of your workouts. We offer a great home-based program that has easy to follow descriptions and simple beginner movements for anyone. You don’t even need to be a member or have any kit!

incredible Kids Fitness classes. These functional fitness classes for ages 6-12 will teach and develop their core, balance, strength and cardiovascular capacity. A fun group class, they will meet new friends and learn new skills while supplementing any other sports they might play. Tell us a little about a particularly fun class…

The really fun classes are the ones that get members out of their comfort zone, laughing and working together. We put a focus on team workouts – even under Covid measures where members are socially distanced, they are responsible for each other via communication and strategy. Our most recent Christmas Throwdown saw pairs go headto-head and take on a series of mini-workouts in their best festive dress. Reindeer antlers optional, laughs guaranteed. Move Forward Gym, 1-3, Finnimore Trading Estate, Ottery St Mary, Exeter; www.moveforwardgym.com

For anyone struggling with motivation at this time of year, what can help?

Some practical hints to stay motivated include finding your own cheerleader. This can be a family member, a work mate or a close friend. Involving someone in your training either to take on the workout with you or just be on hand to cheer you through the work. Try joining an online community where you share your workouts, feelings and results; this will really help you stay on track whilst working out at home. Another key tip is all about the music, spend a few minutes building your perfect playlist. This might include those classics like Eye of the Tiger or some of your favourite songs to dance to. That feeling of moving to some great music can make the difference during those difficult sessions. When you’re back to being fully open, what classes are you offering?

We have our signature class, the Move Forward class which is made up of fun nine-minute team workouts using body weight and lightweight equipment. The Move Forward class is high-intensity but accessible workouts aimed at those just beginning their fitness journey or someone who wants to move for an hour under our trademark lights to some great music. The core day-to day-classes are made up of our functional fitness classes, using barbell workouts, gymnastics and metabolic conditioning. We offer speciality classes that focus on cardio endurance, weightlifting, gymnastic skills; these are a great way to learn new skills whilst under the watchful eye of some of the country’s best coaches. Along with offering one-on-one personal training we have our

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Great Scott

Downtime with Scott

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Try joining an online community where you share your workouts, feelings and resultsâ&#x20AC;?

“I guarantee you’ll be hooked on that postclass buzz!”

As you bike it

WELLBEING

SHIFT INDOOR CYCLING

Pumping music, disco lighting and cycling like your life depends on it – Natalie Grainger is bringing a ‘high octane’ experience to Exeter with her new business, SHIFT: Indoor Cycling Tell us a bit about your background in fitness…

Having left the military after a 10-year career, I won’t lie, I was a little lost initially on a new career choice. For me, going to the gym became my focus, improving my health and lifestyle, and I loved how it improved my mental wellbeing too. So, I decided to make a career out of it. I trained up as a Level 3 (L3) personal trainer, CrossFit coach (L1) and indoor cycling instructor, and set myself up in the centre of London. I loved helping people achieve their goals, watching my clients fall in love with exercise, and the way training makes you feel both inside and out. What made you decide to move to Devon?

I’m from Guernsey originally; I always knew I needed to live by the sea, and when I visited friends in Devon a couple of years ago, I just fell in love with the place. Luckily my better half is a Royal Marine and he didn’t need much convincing to move to the area, so we’ve now settled in the beautiful Lympstone Village with its easy access to the cycle path, the river and the sea, it’s perfect for us! Tell us about SHIFT Indoor Cycling, what is the big dream?

SHIFT was founded because I realised that Devon has a lot of keen

cyclists and a very active community but was missing what London has an abundance of – pay as you go indoor cycling studios using music and lighting to create a ‘high octane’ training experience – during which, you’ll probably forget you’re even in an exercises class! The big dream for me would be to help as many people as I can achieve a positive mindset towards exercise, learn to love cycling and most of all have fun.

Is it like going to spinning classes?

Spinning is just another way of saying indoor cycling, for me our classes use the best quality bikes, highly experienced instructors, great music and you’ll struggle to match the level of service provided anywhere else. Yes on the surface it may seem like just 45 minutes sat on a bike, but it is so much more than that, and I’d encourage anyone and everyone to come and try just one class, I guarantee you’ll be hooked on that post-class buzz! You offer power SHIFT rides, what are they?

Power SHIFT is our next level training session. We utilise the awesome state of the art stages SC3 bikes and their data to target specific training zones over an eight-week programme all designed to improve your FTP (Functional Threshold Power = The maximum power you can sustain four one hour measured in watts, aka how fit you are!). All done to music and with the electric ambience created by the lighting effects, the 45 minutes will be up before you know it.

What are the advantages of cycling in a class as opposed to on your own outside?

Protection from the elements would probably be first and foremost! Secondly, the atmosphere created by utilising the beat of the music to get you through a tough climb, and mood lighting to help raise the adrenaline for that big sprint finish. Thirdly, you can’t underestimate the power of working out in a group – a joint battle to get through the sessions leads to an awesome camaraderie that you’ll struggle to match cycling in your own at home. What kind of atmosphere do you hope to create?

I want to create somewhere that everyone feels welcome, no matter whether this is your first foray into indoor cycling or you’re a seasoned cyclist. There is no judgement at SHIFT; in our eyes by being in class you’ve already taken the toughest step, which is signing up in the first place for a fresh challenge. Where can we find you?

The SHIFT studio is based within the awesome CrossFit Pi gym on the Woodbury Business Estate, which is between Exeter and Exmouth. It’s a great location, with easy access and plenty of parking. When do you hope to open?

We had hoped to open in January but unfortunately due to the current government guidelines we have had to postpone our grand opening. We will open as soon as we are able to, and get everyone SHIFTing into 2021! n Work out, peace out

To keep up to date follow SHIFT on Facebook or Instagram @shiftindoorcycling

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Planning your pension

Charlotte Corr of OLD MILL tells us what to consider before accessing your pension early

he main purpose of a pension is to give you sufficient money to live off throughout your retirement. Whatever you take out now will influence what you have to live off in later life. If you’re thinking about accessing your pension to increase your disposable income, ease any financial pressures or to retire earlier than you originally planned there are a number of things to consider before you do, and it’s important to seek financial advice as to what is best for your personal circumstances. Are there any other savings you can use first? Accessing your pension is a major step. Make sure you’ve explored all your other options first. For example, with current low interest rates it may be worth using some of your cash savings before dipping into your pension fund.

Unlocking/releasing your pension early For those over the age of 55 the pension rules allow you to take out as much as you want from your fund, with 25% being tax-free and the remaining 75% being subject to your marginal rate of income tax. Most people take the whole of their 25% tax-free lump sum when they first access their pension. However, you can take out a smaller tax-free sum at the outset and then further taxfree entitlements throughout your retirement.

Paying into your pension in the future When drawing pension benefits for the first time, it’s important to take advice to avoid falling foul of some of the complex tax rules. For example, you may still be working and access some of your pension fund to supplement your earnings. If the drawing of these benefits is not structured properly, you may be restricted to how much you and/or your employer can contribute in the future if you are still paying into your fund. n

Consider the tax implications By taking a large amount out of your pension in a particular tax year you could tip yourself into a higher tax bracket and pay more tax than if you take smaller amounts over a longer time. One-off withdrawals from a pension can be taxed at emergency tax rates, so you may receive less than you expect. This additional tax can be claimed back but this will take time.

If you’re considering accessing your pension or want to talk about your retirement plans, do get in touch. Contact Charlotte Corr on 07702 808858 or email charlotte.corr@om.uk

It’s the city’s business

EXETERWORKS

Fore Street, the home of Sancho’s

The happy winner: Kalkidan Legesse, co-founder of Sancho’s

Big win

ongratulations are in order for sustainable fashion shop Sancho’s, which has recently won the award for ‘High Street Shop of 2020’ in The Independent Awards ceremony hosted by Holly Tucker MBE (founder of notonthehighstreet) of Holly & Co. Sancho’s was set up by Kalkidan Legesse and Vidmantas Markevicius; they sell inclusive ethical clothing and lifestyle items from their store in Exeter’s Fore Street , as well as online. Winning this award is impressive to say the least – there were 50,000 businesses nominated by the public for the best of independent shops in the UK, and along with public votes, the six awards were chosen by a series of judges including Mark Constantine OBE, founder of Lush and Oliver Tress, founder of Oliver Bonas. The event, hosted on Instagram Live announced the winners and runners up for six categories plus a peoples’ choice award, with a £10,000 prize for each winner.

For more: www.sanchosshop.com

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John Laramy

WHAT AN HONOUR

A lending ear for Exeter’s business owners

EAR GOES A Devon charity is launching a pilot ‘Listening Ear’ service this January to provide a safe space for Devon business owners to chat about the challenges of running a business during a pandemic. Listening Ear has been developed by a partnership of independent charity Devon Communities Together and Devon County Council, as a response to a need for business owners to have somebody to talk to about their general stresses and concerns, especially if they would rather not talk to their family and friends about these issues. From the New Year, business owners who feel they would benefit from having someone to talk to will be able to register with Listening Ear and access the benefits of a conversation with a friendly, experienced volunteer.

Judy Salmon, the wellbeing business coach

“If you are struggling with the pressure of running a business during a pandemic and would like a friendly ‘listening ear’ to talk to, please do get in touch,” says project manager at Devon Communities Together, Dr. Louise MacAllister. “We’re not here to offer business advice; we’re here to provide a friendly, impartial listening ear so you can talk about whatever you feel you need to. Our experienced volunteers will provide a supportive ear and will also be able to signpost you to other services if you need them. “If you have experience in running a business, providing professional services for businesses, or are an experienced coach, mentor or counsellor, we’d love to hear from you. Listening Ear’s focus is on people’s wellbeing.” For more: www.devoncommunities.org.uk

GET WITH THE PROGRAMME Nexa law has appointed leading Exeterbased business coach Judy Salmon to oversee its newly developed wellbeing programme. The law firm hired an external consultancy to speak to each lawyer to gather confidential feedback on their wellbeing needs; as a result of their findings, they decided to create a wellbeing programme. “I’m really excited about working with nexa to give their lawyers the best experience of working in a distributed law firm,” says

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In recognition of his services to education, Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive John Laramy has been awarded a CBE in the New Year’s Honours List. John has been with Exeter College for 12 years and under his leadership the college continues to win various awards. In his first year as Principal, it was ranked as the top college in the country by FE (Further Educaton) Week. In fact, in the five years the paper has ranked every college in the country, Exeter has never been outside of the top five. “I am thrilled, delighted and humbled to have been awarded this honour,” says John. “Education changes lives and it certainly changed my life. I am fortunate that I work in a sector that exists to try and make everyone’s tomorrow better than today. Education is a team sport, so I would like to thank all of those who have contributed to this honour, including all of those that I have worked with during my career, thus far, and the students who make further education the special sector that it is.” In addition, former Exeter College Principal and current Further Education Commissioner Richard Atkins CBE has been awarded a knighthood for services to further education. For more: www.exe-coll.ac.uk

Judy. “Notwithstanding that nexa’s lawyers are geographically far apart, it’s my job to ensure they feel connected – both to each other and the nexa brand.” “I’d encourage every business to listen to what their people are saying and to understand how they’re really feeling,” adds Matthew Dunne, nexa’s business development manager who is also based in Exeter. For more: www.nexa.law

Trophy and smiles: Nourish founder Sarah Martin

BUSINESS CLASS Flying the flag for the South West, Exeter zero waste retailer Nourish Zero Waste has been named joint runner up at the Best Small Shop Awards 2020. The Best Small Shops competition celebrates, not only the commitment and creativity of entrepreneurial independent retailers on the UK’s High Streets but also, the central role independent retailers play in their local communities. The competition received hundreds of entries which were whittled down to just 30 finalists, before judges chose one overall winner and two runners up, one of which was Nourish with its two small shops in Magdalen Road and Topsham.

The judges referred to Nourish as “clearly an innovative business working hard to engage with the local community.” They noted the drive and determination about this business, its pioneering spirit, calling it “cause-driven, honest, authentic, and energetic”. “The proof of the pudding is in the eating,” they added, “in the sheer amount of single use plastic they have managed to eliminate from the local area. The use of technology to make the business smarter and the collaborative approach with others during lockdown is really impressive.” “This is such a wonderful accolade to receive, especially this year when business has been

challenging for small shops everywhere,” says Nourish founder Sarah Martin. “It’s especially satisfying that both runners up have a focus on being plastic-free and ecofriendly. It underlines the fact that businesses like Nourish are making a real impact on shopping habits.” This is the second year in a row that an Exeter business has been runner up in the awards, as The Recycled Candle Company took the same accolade last year. “Maybe next year an Exeter small shop will take top spot!” adds Sarah. For more: www.nourishzerowaste.com

WHERE THERE’S A SKILL

Opportunities to skill up are coming to Devon

Digital and technical bootcamps are being launched to help provide free training to people in Devon. The Government-funded #Train4Tomorrow bootcamps, have been designed to help those out of work, returning to work, or in-work and wishing to advance their skills and will aid adults in developing digital and technical skills that lead to higher-paid roles within growth sectors, opening up opportunities to move into careers such as cyber security, data science, software development, digital marketing, IT, digital healthcare, welding, engineering and construction. “It’s more important now than ever for our business community to pull together to help the region recover from the impact of the pandemic,” says Karl Tucker, chair of Heart of the South West LEP (HotSW LEP), the company behind the initiative. “Providing local people with job opportunities in the region’s growing sectors, is key to the success of the economy in the heart of the South West region; filling the skills gap for employers and getting people back in work.” For more: www.train4tomorrow.org.uk

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NEW BUILDS

MAKE A FRESH START And do it in a new home. Follow our 2021 living upgrade, featuring the residential builds popping up in and around Exeter By Imogen Davidson

Picture perfect: a Redrow home in Saxon Brook

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NEW BUILDS

e all know the benefits of new builds: everything works. And in a time when we are spending a lot of our time inside our homes, stuff working has gone from being on the it-would-be-nice list to the must-have list. However charming a period property is, dodgy heating and intermittent Wifi just won’t cut the mustard anymore. So onto new builds. The great news is that the local ones are surrounded by gorgeous Devon countryside so you’re never far from green space to go running around with your kids/dog/ partner/good self. We caught up with a few local developers to ask them what’s on their books at the moment that might tick all the right boxes for those looking for the perfect, modern Devon abode.

THE EQUINOX DEVELOPMENT…

On the eastern outskirts of the city, close to Exeter Science Park lies the Equinox Development, a new community of 79 two- to four-bedroom open market homes built with traditional craftsmanship and finished in a mix of white render, brick and timber cladding. Among the houses, is their four-bedroom Plym home (which homeseekers can explore when it’s permissible) which has a modern open plan kitchen / dining room with double doors leading into the garden, perfect for entertaining guests with a BBQ in the summer, plus a master bedroom with an en suite, and a spacious family sitting room. Easy living? Yes, very much so. All kitchens having modern integrated appliances, and depending on the build stage, buyers can choose their bathroom tiles, kitchen fittings, and flooring choices. All gardens have a turf, as well as planted borders at the entrance on selected plots. How about outside? There’s a 15-acre country park close by, perfect for walking the dog, cycling, running or relaxing. There’s easy access by car, bike or bus to supermarkets, a selection of primary, secondary schools and colleges, and a doctor’s surgery. Perfect for? Anyone who fancies the best of both worlds of living in a modern three-storey townhouse but with plenty of greenery on your doorstep. For more: Exeter Cavanna Homes; www.cavannahomes.co.uk

“There’s a 15-acre country park close by, perfect for walking the dog” Space to roam nearby at Equinox Three-storey delights at Equinox Development

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“Buyers can customise the internal layout” THE MARKET QUARTER

This Kingswood Homes development is a collection of 102 new homes in the heart of the traditional Devon market town of Hatherleigh, made up two-, three- and four-bedroom homes and bungalows. One such property is the three-storey Thornworthy, a four-bedroom home. “There is plenty of space in the lounge to gather all the family together in comfort and handily located through one door is the large open plan kitchen/diner with French doors opening to the rear,” says Lesley Myers of Kingswood Homes. The property has three bedrooms on the first floor, including an en suite and family bathroom and a further master suite bedroom on the second floor with an en suite. This room could also be used as a luxury guest space or easily converted to a study, office or teenage den. What’s the draw? The team at Kingswood have initiated a shape your home concept which allows buyers to customise the internal layout

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of their home to suit their lifestyle needs. In Thornworthy, this means having the opportunity to turn the property into a three-bedroom home, with each bedroom benefitting from an en suite, and creating a luxury master bedroom on the first floor. Design your own home? Sounds good to us. Perfect for? “Hatherleigh ticks the box for people who want traditional Devon charm with the natural beauty of Dartmoor on the doorstep but with the cities of Exeter and Plymouth within commuting distance,” adds Lesley. “As the development sits in the centre of the town, it is perfect for anyone wanting the amenities of a town on their doorstep. The development has been equally popular with downsizers wanting to be at the heart of the town and younger couple and families keen to put down roots.” For more: Kingswood Homes; www.kingswoodhomes.uk.com

NEW BUILDS

left, above and below: Plush interiors and loads of space at The Market Quarter

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NEW BUILDS SAXON BROOK DEVELOPMENT

Lawn and order at the Saxon Brook development

Situated to the north east of Exeter in the village of Pinhoe lies Redrow’s Saxon Brook Development, where you’ll find a range of three- and four-bedroom houses, all with expansive gardens. What’s the draw? The location. On your doorstep in Pinhoe are local amenities like a post office, local shop, GP surgery and, of course, Pinhoe train station which has direct trains to London. If you move here, you’ll also be treading on a bit of the past – the village of Pinhoe has a long history of its own, dating back over 1,000 years to the days of the famous Battle of Pinhoe between the Saxons and Vikings and Saxon Brook is positioned close to what is believed to be the location of this battle. Easy living? Yes, if you like your mod cons these are the properties for you. The Redrow kitchens in particular feature the latest in energysaving appliances manufacturers such as Siemens, Bosch & AEG. Perfect for? Anyone yearning for a bit of village life but wanting all the advantages of the city within easy reach. n For more: Redrow: www.redrow.co.uk

Your dream boudoir awaits

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Coming Soon! A development of just 10 individual 4-bedroom new homes set in the centre of Lympstone.

RBL Homes Ltd Rosario, Ebford Lane Ebford, Exeter, Devon, EX3 0QN

t - 01392 875475 m - 07736 374417 e - info@rblhomes.co.uk w - www.rblhomes.co.uk

Lympstone Nursery Plot 1 Bedrooms – 4 Bathrooms – 3.5 Garage – Single Total Size – 2,497 ft2

Plot 3 Bedrooms – 4 Bathrooms – 3.5 Garage – Single Total Size – 2,928 ft2

Plot 10 Bedrooms – 4 Bathrooms – 3.5 Garage – Single Total Size – 3,014 ft2

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Buy to Let – Do I or Don’t I? THE MORTGAGE QUARTER‘S new ‘buy to let’ division has been set up to guide you though the process

istorically, investing in property has generally been a pretty safe prospect and a solid means of generating income. However, after a year of such economic uncertainty, is a buy to let investment still worth it and if you are thinking of becoming a landlord, where do you start? The Mortgage Quarter, as one of Exeter’s leading mortgage brokers has recently set up its very own Buy To Let (BTL) division. The aim is to offer accomplished and aspiring landlords the opportunity to experience a first class investment service and advice, from highly experienced and passionate mortgage advisers, with over 40 years combined experience.

BUY TO LET EXPERTS Highly qualified in many fields of finance, cofounder and director of The Mortgage Quarter, Michael Tilston has taken a specialist BTL licence with the Mortgage Advice Bureau network. With numerous changes in the BTL market over recent years; including tax rule changes and mortgage affordability criteria, it’s more important than ever that you choose the right BTL mortgage. With Michael’s knowledge and expertise, you can be certain that whether you require a mortgage for a simple BTL property or are looking to refinance a property portfolio, he will find the best deal for you. Michael explains the reason behind the team’s new pursuit. “Having noticed a consistently high demand for buy to let mortgages and enquiries, we sought the opportunity to create a unique offering for landlords. We offer competitive and exclusive mortgage deals on HMOs, student lets,

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private lets and for limited company landlords. We pride ourselves on having a remarkable knowledge of both the local and national buy to let markets and can offer advice and knowledge on a range of different mortgage options available for those looking to invest in property.” Whether you are a prolific investor with a large portfolio, an accidental landlord or a new landlord who would like to purposefully invest, The Mortgage Quarter’s BTL division is there to provide investors, with specialist, tailored advice about everything from the best mortgage rates through to rental yield, capital growth and setting up a limited company. The team’s new venture provides an expert, comprehensive service for both new and professional portfolio landlords. Michael continues to explain. “We are well aware that one size does not fit all, which is why we take time to find out about what you need and take the time to create a perfectly tailored solution to match your requirements. Investing in a buy to let is very different to buying your own home. Essentially it’s a bit like running your own business, with legal responsibilities, tenants and an additional mortgage to consider. We are fortunate to have built fantastic affiliate links with other local estate agents, who have great letting opportunities and can guarantee landlords a first class service into the next chapter of their buy to let business.” Whether you are already a portfolio landlord looking to further invest, considering a BTL investment, or need specialist advice on a residential mortgage, The Mortgage Quarter is here for a no obligation chat. Call them on 01392 660219 or drop them an email, info@tmq.org.uk. ■

Michael Tilston

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

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

The view is looking good for the property market

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

The Devon housing market was under the spotlight in December as Savills Devon and Cornwall were joined by over 200 clients for a virtual Home Truths event during which a panel of experts, hosted by Richard Brooks (head of South West residential), reviewed the trends in the UK housing market and the outlook for 2021. “Demand across the UK has been driven by shifting preferences for rural and lifestyle locations, not least in Devon and Cornwall,” says Kirsty Bennison, from Savills residential research. “We have seen a strong rebound in activity since the initial lockdown but the market remains price sensitive. “The South West led the way in rising levels of activity experienced over the summer,” adds Kirsty. “In particular, markets in the South Hams region (+95 per cent) and Cornwall (+52 per cent) saw considerable increases in agreed sales to the end of October, when compared to the same period in 2019, according to data from TwentyCi. “Coastal locations are more buoyant than ever. This is especially true for £1m-plus homes with 163 £1m-plus transactions recorded in Devon, and 131 in Cornwall, over the past two years to June 2020.” The panel discussed the impact of changing lifestyle preferences and referred to a survey conducted by Savills in August, of 1,400 registered buyers and sellers, that highlighted the increasing demand for more outside space. Research showed that 62 per cent of respondents said access to a garden

HOUSE IT GOING

or other outside space, for which Devon and Cornwall are well known, is now more important in their search for a property. The demographic of buyers was considered and shows that 50 per cent of registered buyers are people relocating from elsewhere in the UK while 23 per cent of buyers have purchased property as a second home. Also giving insights into the local markets were Sarah-Jane Bingham-Chick and Chris Cliﬀord, both of Savills. “We have undoubtedly seen an increase in demand for property with more space, both inside and outside, echoing the appetite for rural and lifestyle locations which given the experience of the past decade continue to oﬀer good value,” says Sarah. “The markets in Devon and Cornwall show little sign of slowing down and continue to be sought-after with an increase in agreed sales (+44 per cent) and new buyer registrations (+63 per cent) when compared to 2019.” For more: www.savills.co.uk

Redrow site manager Steve Damerell has received, not for the ﬁrst time, the Seal of Excellence Award at the NHBC’s annual Pride in the Job Awards 2020 for the South West. “A massive congratulations to Steve on his Seal of Excellence award win, just a month before his sixth anniversary with Redrow,” adds Lee Hawker, managing director at Redrow South West. “It is amazing to have such a regular winner within the South West team. The NHBC has a very rigorous judging process and only the best in the business receive the Seal of Excellence award, making Steve’s win even more impressive and truly reﬂective of his consistent hard work.” For more: www.redrow.co.uk

Exeter estate agents Naomi J Ryan team has announced the appointment of Kerry Hart, their new lettings manager. Kerry has worked in the industry for 10 years, holding her ARLA qualiﬁcation since 2014, and joins the lettings team of Andrew Harris, MARLA and Vanessa Johnson. For more: www.naomijryan.co.uk

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PROPERTY

HILLSIDE Fancy moving into this transformed Victorian property? By Imogen Davidson

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ocated in the heart of the estuary village of Lympstone is a three-storey Victorian house named Hillside. From the outside it looks like a perfectly nice, but not remarkable, semidetached house. Step inside though, or take a peek around the rear side, and you’ll see a chic, sleek, and thoroughly modern property. Yes, these digs have had quite the most extraordinary transformation. And just like the best people in life, there are lots of layers to unpeel here. The most noticeable addition is the two-storey extension (pictured here). This is the hub of the house, the sociable place where you’ll deﬁnitely want to hang out. It’s attached via a glazed walk-through link, which provides a generous open-plan kitchen, dining, living space where light, space

and generally looking serenely cool is the mood of the digs. Everything from the fitted lighting scheme to the tidily inserted modern fireplace to the muted grey décor is simple and contemporary; this is Exeter’s take on Scandi living and we love it. The transformation project also includes some techy wizardry, including a home cinema snug room upstairs (which includes a bar) and an inbuilt multi-room audio system. Back to the original part of the house. This layer of the house has been renovated to provide a snug / sitting room and formal dining room on the ground floor. Here they’ve kept with the period styling; you’ll notice the bay windows and original fireplaces plus deep, wintery blue décor which has us thinking of only of cocktails and velvet.

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The decadence continues upstairs with the master bedroom with an en suite, walk-through dressing room and study. The second floor includes two bedrooms, a bathroom and a loft room. Pore over the beautiful bath and walk-in wardrobe (see image on opposite page) room that would make Carrie Bradshaw squeal with delight. Outside, in the south-facing landscaped garden space you’ve got a hot tub, swimming pool, decked seating area with patio heater, outside fire, plus a trampoline built into the ground. It’s safe to say you’ll get a mighty thumbs up from your kids if you purchase this house. To the side, the double garage has front and rear electric doors and above the garage there is a gym with fitted storage space. Not too familiar with Lympstone? The village sits between Exmouth and Topsham, with Exeter about nine miles away. It grew from an ancient settlement on the eastern shores of the Exe estuary, building its reputation on maritime trade and agriculture. The village has a primary school, doctor’s surgery, two churches, four pubs, one café, a hairdressers and a village shop. There are also clubs and societies galore including sailing and tennis clubs, and an active gardening club and film society. The half-hourly Avocet line train service, with its beautiful views across the River Exe, links the village with Exeter’s two main stations: Exeter St David’s with its fast train service to London Paddington and Exeter Central with its service to Waterloo. The Exe Estuary Trail – 26 miles of cycleway along both sides of the Rive Exe – is another addition to this perfectly positioned old-meets-new wonder of a house. n

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HOUSE NUMBERS Guide price £1, 500,000 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3

Outside Swimming pool, patio heaters, outside fire and garden For more: Wilkinson Grant, The Old City Library, 1 Castle Street, Exeter; www.wilkinsongrant.co.uk

PROPERTY

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EXETER LIVES

“I took the plunge and fell in love with drag in that moment”

ARINA FOX Arina performs in cabarets and catwalks all over the city; here she chats powerful pride gigs, bringing happiness to the masses and why you‘ll have the best night of your life if you’re with a drag queen Hello Arina! Whereabouts do you live?

I currently live in St Thomas and I love my little house with my doggy (beagle) Luci and my hubby.

Tell us about your journey to becoming a drag queen...

Ever since I was young, I’ve always wanted to experience drag and become a fabulous drag queen. I then noticed that there was not a drag scene in Exeter and I wanted to set myself a challenge to create one. I came across a great event called BeYou and they offered for me a guest

spot performing in drag. I took the plunge and did it, and I fell in love with drag that moment. Once I did this performance I knew I wanted to make this a career and grow and create a fabulous drag community in Devon. I have gone on to create my own drag shows in and around Devon. I currently work at Coolings in Exeter doing cabaret shows and also drag brunches at Pink Moon. I have been doing drag for three years now and I have created the Exeter Pride drag catwalk show on Gandy Street, I have put many people in drag

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to allow them a moment to feel powerful, pride gigs and so much more. I feel like I want to give back to our community and show that Exeter can be like any big city! Drag is so powerful and can create so much happiness. It’s kind of an escape from reality and allows you to let you hair down and have a good laugh. I think like I have made an impact within our LGBTQ+ community but there is so much more I want to accomplish. What can we expect if we come and see you?

Comedy, fun, fabulousness, a show and laughter. I want to make you leave my shows knowing you have had a fabulous night and you will leave saying “Wow, what a drag queen!”. Tell us more about the brunch events at Pink Moon…

Me and the fabulous Pink Moon met in January [2020] to make something that is so popular in London but bring it to Exeter, therefore we created our very own drag brunch. You can have a fabulous drag queen, food and alcohol. It’s a really great way to go out, have fun and have a good meal too. What is the best thing about your job?

Meeting all the amazing people at my gigs and entertaining them. Watching someone smile and enjoy themselves knowing I have created that memory for them.

And the most challenging?

Sometimes people can be rude and take it too far. For example, if a guy knows it is a man underneath they feel like they can pass crude remarks. I have dealt with quite a lot of uneducated people who do not understand personal boundaries. Any highlights?

Being able to create drag moments for people. I had the pleasure of helping a mum and her son, by putting her son into drag at the age of 15. He was fabulous and so confident. It’s so humbling to see parents allowing their children to express themselves and support them. My mum is the best and No.1 Arina Fox fan. I got to the semifinal of Drag Idol which was a great experience and now being known around the UK is an amazing feeling. What can you tell us about the local drag queen scene…

There isn’t one really. If I could open my own LGBTQ+ cabaret bar in Exeter, I would! If any rich people want to open one with me, let’s do it... For anyone who’s not been to see a drag queen in action, why should they do so?

To show you that drag queens are fun, human, and that you will have the best night of your life with drag queens. I can guarantee you will laugh and have a good time at a drag show. n For more: Facebook: Arina Fox or Instagram: @arina_ fox_drag

Bereavement And Loss LOoking ONwardS

Supporting bereaved children and young people in Exeter, Mid & East Devon

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Balloons provides 1:1 pre- and post-bereavement support to children and young people aged 5-25 living in Exeter, Mid & East Devon. We also support their families by providing our telephone helpline and family events, and we deliver childhood grief training to local agencies. Losing a signiďŹ cant person through death is a universal human experience. We recognise that children and young people can be vulnerable if they are not supported to process and manage their grief and to develop coping mechanisms to go forward positively with their lives.

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We are looking to build new partnerships in 2021 so that we can continue our important work and reach out to even more grieving children and young people. If you are a local business and would like to hear more about our corporate sponsorship packages, then we would love to hear from you.

Get in touch to see how we can help you, or how you can get involved: Basepoint Business Centre, Yeoford Way, Marsh Barton, Exeter EX2 8LB 01392 826065 â&#x20AC;˘ sarabennett@balloonscharity.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ balloonscharity.co.uk BalloonsCharityDevon

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Pre & post bereavement support