Exeter Living - Issue 296

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ISSUE 296 / LATE APRIL 2022 / £3

ISSUE 296 / LATE APRIL 2022 / EXETER LIVING AWARDS WINNERS GUIDE

LEGENDS! ALL THE JOY AND JUBILATION FROM THE EXETER LIVING AWARDS 2022

LIVING THE DREAM

CYGNET THEATRE’S CITY-WIDE FESTIVAL KICKS OFF

BEST SEAT IN TOWN

VISITING THE NEWLY OPENED MARGOUX

TIME TO GROW

GARDENS BE BLOOMING

AND RELAX…

PAMPER TIME AT THE PIG-AT COMBE



© NICK MAT THEWS

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE: bthechange CIC team:

Josephine Olszelwski, Josh Stunell, Sarah-Jane Tyas-Peterson, Hannah Chapman. Page 32; BELOW: Gardening accessories from RHS Rosemoor. Page 54

J

oyful front cover, isn’t it? The happy people you see before you are the team at local enterprise bthechange CIC. They scooped both the Charity and the overall Platinum Award at our recent Exeter Living Awards for the incredible work they do to support people in, or entering, the criminal justice system. It was a standing ovation moment at our awards and rightly so. We chat to the CEO, Josh Stunell, on page 32 about how this inspirational organisation helps people turn their lives around. And for all the Exeter Living Awards coverage, turn to page 15 where you’ll find the full Winners’ Guide Review, including all the triumphant, and impossibly glam, pics from the night. The good times continue with Cygnet Theatre’s DREAM Festival which kicks off on 29 April. This ambitious 10-week city-wide festival features over 162 events for us all to enjoy. The numerous plays and performances will be in arts venues all over Exeter as well as in some more unusual spots, Ikea for one! Check out some of the highlights of the festival on page 6 and delve into our interview with the festival coordinator Helga Beer on page 66. Elsewhere in this issue we dine out at the newly opened Margoux (page 38), get relaxed into oblivion at the Pig-at Combe (page 42), fall head over heels in love with the town of Chagford (page 46), visit some gorgeous local gardens (page 50), and pore over the new Courtyard Exeter Sandy Park Hotel (page 64). Enjoy!

HARRIET NOBLE Follow us on Twitter @ExeterLiving Instagram @exeterlivingmag

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Issue 296 / Late April 2022 COVER Exeter Living winners bthechange CIC: Jospehine Olszelwski, Josh Stunell and Sarah-Jane Tyas-Peterson. Image by Nick Matthews. Turn to page 15 and 32 for more.

THE BIG FEATURES

15 EXETER LIVING AWARDS WINNERS’ GUIDE REVIEW 2022

All the party pics from the night plus our wonderful winners

32 BTHECHANGE CIC Chatting to our double winners from the night 6 SPOTLIGHT It’s all about Cygnet Theatre’s DREAM Festival 9 JP HEDGE on the city’s local theatre and entertainment scene 66 LIVES What’s it like to organise a 10-week city-wide festival in Exeter?

Helga Beer spills the beans

THE ARTS

10 WHAT’S ON Theatre, music, art, and a sprinkling of comedy

FOOD & DRINK

35 FOOD & DRINK NEWS Tasty new openings in the city 37 TARA SMITH Our columinst knows the best way to kick-start the day 38 RESTAURANT It’s new, it’s glam, it’s delish...it’s Margoux

38

© NICK HOOK

REGULARS

46

HEALTH & WELLBEING

41 MIND, BODY & SOUL New openings and initiatives in the city 42 SPA TIME Hot stone treatments at The Pig-at Combe

OUT AND ABOUT

46 CHAGFORD How to spend a day in this charming town

GARDENING

50 IN BLOOM Local gardens to visit over the next few months 54 SHOPPING Gardening accessories to pretty up your outdoor spaces

BUSINESS

56 EXETERWORKS Stories, networking events and new businesses

PROPERTY

59 NEWS New developments and property events 64 IN CONVERSATION WITH... Adam Willis of KTA on developing

the new Courtyard Exeter Sandy Park Hotel

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, Tara Smith Commercial manager Paula Miller paula.miller@mediaclash.co.uk Production/Distribution Manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Production Manager/ Production Designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Exeter Living MediaClash, Carriage Court, 22 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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Arts and culture

CYGNET THEATRE’S DREAM FESTIVAL The city-wide festival runs from 29 April-2 July. Here are some highlights over the next few weeks… 29 April The Ramayana: Artemis Storytelling Dynamic storyteller Emily Hennessey and virtuoso musician Sheema Mukherjee have been fusing live storytelling and music for seven years, specialising in Indian mythology with music that draws on both Indian classical and contemporary traditions. 8-10pm, at Cygnet Theatre 29 April, 6, 20 and 27 May Newcourt Creative Arts Pop-up A creative pop-up café for teens and pre-teens. Each week will feature a visiting artist, who will run a workshop for young people in a different expressive art: cyanotype printing, drumming, drama and street art / graffiti. No pre-booking required, but workshop spaces are limited – turn up early to avoid disappointment. 4.15pm onwards at Newcourt Community Centre

11-14 May Romeo & Juliet Shakespeare’s enduring love story is being performed by Exeter College UAL Acting. 7pm at The Yard Theatre (matinee 2pm on 14 May) 14 May Flash mob As part of Pride, Soul of the City, Nuts & Vaults Theatre and Exeter Children’s Chorus will perform. Tbc at Princesshay. For more: www.cygnettheatre.co.uk

30 April Launch Party Join artists, businesses and communities for the launch of Cygnet’s DREAM Festival. An open day with performances in the evening. See the theatre, grab a brochure, volunteer or book tickets. 2pm onwards at Cygnet Theatre 30 April, 7, 14, 21, 28 May Adventure Hour Join the Northcott Theatre for Adventure Hour: a series of free creative, sensory storytelling sessions for families with children aged 2 – 4. 10am onwards at The Beacon Community Centre 2 May Blitz Event With interactive exhibits and performances throughout the day. Take a look back at 80 years since the Exeter Blitz. 9am onwards at Princesshay 6 May Exeter Comedy club Local comics will be serving up an evening of stand-up comedy; you can reserve your own table for four or more people. 8.30pm onwards at Exeter Corn Exchange

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TOP: Cygnet Theatre is hosting the festival; ABOVE AND LEFT: Performances will be held all across the city


SPOTLIGHT

SEVEN DEADLY SINS

Since winning Britain’s Got Talent in 2018 LEE RIDLEY, aka Lost Voice Guy, has been performing his stand-up to legions of fans up and down the country. Here, ahead of his gig at Exeter Corn Exchange on 1 May, the chocolate fiend bares his soul…

LUST: What do you find yourself lusting after today, and why?

Giant chocolate buttons! I just can’t get enough of them. My addiction to them has got so bad that people have started to bring packets of them to my tour shows. That’s how I know I have a problem!

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

One of my guilty pleasures is watching American Pickers whenever it’s on. I’ve watched it that much that I definitely reckon I could spot a good bargain in some old man’s garage just by looking at it. So maybe I should be cutting down on that.

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

INTERVIEW!

Any sort of chocolate cake. Are you starting to notice a pattern? I could easily have it for my breakfast, lunch, and tea without any problem. I’d get a lot fatter but it’d be worth it.

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

I’m on my Cerebral LOLsy tour at the moment, so I should be on working on that and tweaking it to make it the best show I possibly can. I’m a master of procrastination though, so instead, I’m answering these questions while watching American Pickers.

WRATH: What/who makes you angry? People who ask disabled people stupid questions make me angry. I think the question that I’m sick of being asked the most is definitely ‘have you ever tried to talk, just to see what would happen?’ As if I had just been lazy all of my life, and therefore just couldn’t be bothered to talk. Like I was only putting it on to take advantage, and jump the queues at Disney world. But, in case you are wondering, no I haven’t tried to talk before. Mainly because I know nothing would happen. I’m not going to suddenly open my mouth, and hear Brian Blessed’s voice booming out. Besides, I’ve built a career out of not being able to speak now. I don’t think I should be encouraging my voice to magically reappear too much. The found voice guy just doesn’t have the same ring to it. ENVY: Who are you jealous of ?

I get very jealous of these comedians who can talk on stage. I’ve got quite a quick mind, so I often think of funny things to say on the spot, but then I have to spend five minutes typing it out. So I’d love to be able to get my point across instantly.

PHOTO BY STEVE ULL ATHORNE

PRIDE: What’s your proudest achievement?

I’m going to have to say winning Britain’s Got Talent. Obviously, I’m a lot richer for a start. But please don’t tell the department of work and pensions. Seriously though, winning the show has changed my life in so many ways. I’m busier than I ever was before as a comedian. I’ve been on a nationwide tour, and I have also written a book called I’m Only In It For the Parking. The general public has been so supportive as well. I’m always getting stopped for selfies and having people congratulate me. And it has been excellent. I’m very grateful for all the kind words I have received. One of the best things to happen since I won is that people engage with me more than they would have in the past. For the first time, they seem comfortable talking to a disabled person. I’m used to being stared at for negative reasons, so it’s nice to be stared at for positive reasons for a change.

www.exetercornexchange.co.uk

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OPINION JP HEDGE “I had to pretend to get very drunk, and drop in some intimate clues about how well I knew the bride”

Let Exeter entertain you

These days JP is a happy consumer of live entertainment, but he’s had his fair share of unpredictable experiences on the stage over the years…

I

’m just in awe of the resilience of everyone working in culture in Exeter. The pandemic brought many new things in our lives. This included the unprecedented use of the word ‘unprecedented’ – but I think an exception for its use should be made in this case. The sector has never faced anything like the past couple of years. And we aren’t out of the woods yet. Brilliant shows and events need brilliant audiences to step up and visit. For me culture is the oil that keeps the gears of all parts of life in Exeter going. It wonderfully weaves its ways around so many other industries of the city. Yet it can never be taken for granted. I work around cultural ambition for the City Council so you’d expect me to be chief cheerleader. When I meet with people deeply involved in the sector I’m very much a consumer rather than an expert. And most of the time there is a guilt I’m on a stable salary rather than in the trenches with everyone else fighting for the next round of funding or audience. What I do understand and hold dear is how aspects of culture have enriched and shaped my own life.

My love of theatre helped land my first job writing about it. I just presumed everyone loved live entertainment as much as me – I didn’t know that wasn’t the case. Aged 5 to 18 I used to dance most nights – I just wasn’t good enough to take it forward professionally. I also did the usual am-dram and pantomimes and also worked on the murder mystery circuit. The most nerve-racking one I ever did was an actual real-life wedding where the bride and groom had secretly arranged for us to be among the guests. I had to pretend to get very drunk, very quickly, and drop in some intimate clues about how well I knew the bride and her bum-based birthmark. I can still see the look on the mother-in-law’s face. I met my real-life wife in a theatre and now our children love live entertainment as much as we do. Live entertainment provides something that just isn’t replicable elsewhere. I’ve got personal anecdotes galore. But I don’t think you can understate the real value and real purpose around the enrichment that culture brings to lives. Restrictions through the pandemic closed off doors and opportunities. On a real kinaesthetic level, there is nothing like being

in the room where live entertainment is taking place. So if you do have the time and resources to reconnect with live culture in the city, now really is the time to try something new and book something in. We are really spoiled for choice. Exeter Corn Exchange is the largest city centre venue with an incredible programme of events. It is run on a proverbial shoestring, and always under threat of swapping the shoe laces to Velcro. But the amazing team consistently punches above its weight in a phenomenal offering. There really is something for everyone in the current programme, already booking through into 2023. Google ‘The Northcott’ and ‘The Barnfield’ and you’ll see what the amazing team there has been up to in providing a second new home to a varied programme of events. There are some phenomenal things to immerse yourself in, but they are also leading the way directly in our communities. The Phoenix offers the most varied content of any attraction. Their live events offer such an intimate and personal experience. Just opposite to them, the RAMM have seen huge success with their ‘Lates’ series – adult only nights of exploration and entertainment. Sandy Park is making a name for itself as a venue for one-off events. Maketank and Positive Lights are then leading the way down in Sidwell Street and Paris Street. The UNESCO City of Literature live programme is always worth checking out, especially around events in the Custom House. In Exeter, the Guildhall and Princesshay are such good advocates and supporters of live entertainment. And long may Exeter Cathedral bring new innovative events to our city. The bottom line though is that although Exeter punches above its weight when it comes to culture, venues need us to go and enjoy things, be brave, and try something new. Let’s leave the box sets behind and binge on some brilliant live entertainment this spring and summer. ■ 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

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WHAT’S ON

Comedian Simon Amstell will be at Exeter Corn Exchange

© HARRY CARR

22 April onwards

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

THEATRE/ PERFORMANCE 27-28 April

BALLET BOYZ Meet the eight extraordinary young dancers who feature in this explosion of mesmeric dance. Bold, boisterous and beautiful. Exeter Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

29-30 April

THE STRANGE CASE OF DR JEKYLL & MR HYDE Immerse yourself in the myth and mystery of 19th Century London’s fog-bound streets where love, betrayal and murder lurk at every chilling twist and turn. Gripping, stylish and thought-provoking. Exeter Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

7 May

RIOT ACT This solo verbatim show is created out of interviews with three key players in the history of the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Provocative, tender, truthful, funny, political and personal. Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

10-15 May

FANTASTICALLY GREAT WOMEN WHO CHANGED

THE WORLD This new kick-asspirational pop musical sees our inquisitive heroine Jade go on a journey to meet the original and incredible wonder women: Frida Kahlo, Rosa Parks, and Emmeline Pankhurst to name just a few. Exeter Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

COMEDY 23 April

GYLES BRANDETH: BREAK A LEG! Without hesitation or repetition (and just a touch of deviation), Just a Minute regular Gyles delivers a dazzling evening of wit, wisdom, high drama, low comedy, and hilarious name-dropping. Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; www.exetercornexchange.co.uk

26 April

PAUL MERTON’S IMPRO CHUMS Be ready to be wowed as Paul Merton, Richard Vranch, Suki Webster, Mike McShane and accompanist Kirsty Newton flex their improvisational muscles. Exeter Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

1 May

LOST VOICE GUY: CERABRAL LOLSY

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Following the success of his huge sell out 2019 UK tour, Lost Voice Guy is heading back out on the road to put a smile on the faces of people up and down the country once again. Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; www.exetercornexchange.co.uk

7 May

DYLAN MORAN: WE GOT THIS The brand-new show from BAFTA and Perrier award-winning comedian Dylan Moran. It promises to be a joyously furious romp through the frustration and folly of modern-day life. Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; www.exetercornexchange.co.uk

29 May

SIMON AMSTELL: SPIRIT HOLE It’s been described as a blissful, spiritual, sensational exploration of love, sex, shame, mushrooms and more. If you yearn for a night of unprecedented joy and laughter book now and avoid regret. Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; www.exetercornexchange.co.uk

MUSIC 22 April

ZION TRAIN, REVELATION ROOTS & KOUATCHOU Zion Train are one of the most

unique and enjoyable live dub acts on the planet.This night is a fundraiser for Exeter’s community radio station Phonic FM. Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

5 May

ALBION QUARTET AT THE HONEYMEAD FESTIVAL The Albion Quartet include Tamsin Waley-Cohen and Emma Parker (violins), Ann Beilby (viola) and Nathaniel Boyd (cello); expect Haydn, Mozart and Dvorak. Exeter Cathedral, Cathedral Close, Exeter; www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk

10 May

HERE’S TO THEE SHOWCASE An hour of music and explanation on the theme of cider, touching on how people negotiate their relationships with microbial life through cidermaking and the folkways associated with it, such as wassailing – the tradition that celebrates the importance of apple trees to local communities. Courtyard at RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; www.exeterramm.admit-one.eu

18 May

‘THE SOUL OF A NATION’ RALPH VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of one of the great composers with a talk by Raymond


WHAT’S ON Lloyds Lounge, Catherine Square, Exeter; www.eventbrite.co.uk

29 and 30 April

TOBY’S GARDEN FESTIVAL Join Toby Buckland and the team for a two-day gardening show festival with the best nurseries, local food and craft, and garden talks. Powderham Castle, Exeter; www.powderham.co.uk

© PAMEL A R AITH PHOTOGR APHY

11 May

left: Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World at Exeter Northcott; above: Riot Act at Exeter Phoenix

Calcraft and live music from Hilary Boxer and David Davies. The illustrated talk with recorded musical excerpts looks at Vaughan Williams’ interest in folksong and its importance to his music, his contribution to this country’s cultural history and his remarkable musical legacy. Gallery 20, RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; www.exeterramm.admit-one.eu

majestic collection of symphonic compositions and arrangements mixed with field recordings of dawn choruses and solo birdsong, accompanied by original footage and digital art created by musician and producer GRICE. Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

nature of craft, art and design in the 21st Century, addressing the labels, status and boundaries associated with craft and fine art as well as the impact of new technologies such as digital design and rapid prototyping. MAKE Southwest, Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey; www.crafts.org.uk

ART

FILM

NICK GOSS: MUD ANGELS Nick Goss collapses time and space by filtering images of contemporary London and personal memories, with documentary photographs of historic floods in the Netherlands and Florence to create places that are simultaneously familiar and intangible. Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Dowell House, Honiton, www.thelmahulbert.com

FRESH! DEVON ARTIST NETWORK This exhibition brings together key works by leading Devon artists such as Karen Nicholls, Ella Slade and Martin Staniforth. Expect painting, sculpture, pottery, glass work, textile and mark making – with all pieces for sale. Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Dowell Street, Honiton; thelmahulbert.com

26 April

DELICIOUD + INTRODUCTION Ahead of the French Revolution one man sparks his own culinary one and ignites the birth of the restaurant in this amusing, tasty and inspiring period drama, fresh out of the French Film Festival. Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street; exeterphoenix.org.uk

29 April

DOWNTON ABBEY: A NEW ERA The much-anticipated sequel to the 2019 film takes the entire family on a grand journey to the South of France, all to uncover the secrets and lies behind their newly inherited home. Exeter Picturehouse, 51 Bartholomew St W, Exeter; www.picturehouses.com

8 May

‘ONE THOUSAND BIRDS’ SYMPHONY This short film features a

Until 14 May

Until 29 May

IN PLAIN SIGHT: TRANSATLANTIC SLAVERY AND DEVON This exhibition traces the local industries that relied on the trade and the lives of the people who benefitted from its profits. It features a film which reflects on RAMM’s iconic painting Portrait of an African and a new commission by the acclaimed artist Joy Gregory. Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

Until 2 July

ARTFUL CRAFT This exhibition focuses on the

28 May-23 July

30 May-5 June

ART IN THE STUDIO Bovey Tracey Society of Artists is holding a special exhibition this year as part of The Queen’s Jubilee celebrations. Expect a wide range of work by local artists including sketches, watercolours, pastels, acrylics and oil paintings. The Studio (the old library building), Abbey Road, Bovey Tracey; @Bovey Tracey Society of Artists

14 May

THE POETRY MACHINE This is your chance to experience poetry, created in response to your thoughts, feelings, ideas, and discoveries. Co-create a poem with poet Beth Calverley, distilling your words into a poem to take home with you. Exeter Custom House, 46 The Quay, Exeter; www.exetercityofliterature.com n

AND WATCH OUT FOR... 29 April 2022

PROPERTY SYMPOSIUM: SUSTAINABILITY A new arm of our annual Exeter Property Awards, this is an online conference full of dynamic, powerful insights about property and sustainability. For more, see page 59. www.exeterpropertyawards.com

30 June 2022

ENTRECONF Inspirational, practical conference for entrepreneurs and advisors. For more, see 56. www.exeterlivingawards.co.uk

21 October 2022

OTHER 25 April

SHALIMAR: A STORY OF PLACE AND MIGRATION Bookbag and University of Exeter present an evening of author Davina Quinlivan in conversation with Ellen Wiles. Quinlivan’s story begins in colonial India and Burma, where the women in her family descend from the indigenous tribes and diasporas of Portuguese Kerala and the Shan Hills of Myanmar, migrating to England in the 1950s. Bookbag, McCoy’s Arcade, Exeter; www.bookbag.shop

DEVON MAMAS APRIL MEET UP Coffee, brunch and the opportunity to meet fellow mums, and mums to be plus their babies.

EXETER PROPERTY AWARDS Following a successful first year, we are once again holding the Exeter Property Awards. For more, see page 59. www.exeterpropertyawards.com

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WE ARE FEATURING EXETER QUAYSIDE IN OUR NEXT EDITION.

IS YOUR BUSINESS SITUATED HERE?

We have the perfect marketing opportunity in our next edition out on the 13th May – deadline 29th April To find out how best to benefit from marketing your business please call Paula Miller on 07563 529772 or email paula.miller@mediaclash.co.uk



THE FUTURE IS UNWRITTEN

CALLING ENTREPRENEURS Inspirational tales Practical advice Unrivalled connections

Scan for first peek of EntreConf22

Backed by

CONTENT: claudia.butler@mediaclash.co.uk

EntreConf.com

COMMERCIAL: annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk

@Entre_Conf June 30


EXETER LIVING AWARDS

EXETER IS THE WINNER – ALWAYS…

© EMILY APPLETON

Joy and jubilation reigned supreme at the recent Exeter Living Awards. Here we take a look back at the highlights from that glorious evening...

Pete’s Dragons winners: Alison Jordan and Tegan Rogers

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© NICK MAT THEWS

EXETER LIVING AWARDS

OH, WHAT A NIGHT

T

he mood of the night could be seen and felt in so many ways: victorious fist pumps, emotional hugs, moving speeches. And hundreds of people cheering each other on. The evening was, as always, a reminder of the sense of community in Exeter. After a tough few years with Exeter’s companies working stoically throughout it all, this was a time for everyone to show each other a lot of love and support. The night was certainly filled with many special moments – made all the more precious for the continued uncertainty and difficulty the world is experiencing right now. Ukraine was on everybody’s minds, and during the awards Greg Ingham, CEO of MediaClash, Exeter Living’s Living’s publisher, announced that our business will be contributing free advertising space in this magazine, and promoting any activity from any Exeter organisation through our various channels, using the hashtag #ExeterSupportsUkraine. Highlights of the evening were, of course, the announcements of our very special winners and people were on their feet to

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see local enterprise bthechange CIC take to the stage, twice, as they scooped both the Charity Award and the overall Platinum Award. We must mention the gang at Pete’s Dragons too, worthy winners of our Health and Wellbeing Award; they gave a really heartfelt speech – and were quite possibly the most glam guests of the evening! Local sporting legend Chris Bentley did a blinder as our cohost for the evening providing jovial, whip-smart banter to the proceedings; he joined Greg Ingham in giving out the Awards. After a hearty three-course meal, and plenty of bubbles, the party moved to Pink Moon where we danced into the small hours. Thank you to everyone who made this night so special: the winners, hosts, judges, sponsors, photographers – and ever single one of our guests. Your support and camaraderie made the night such a joy. We can’t wait to do it all again next year. With love, from Greg, Harriette, Harry, Jane, Paula, Steph and all the Exeter Living team For more: www.exeterlivingawards.co.uk


PHOTOS BY NICK MAT THEWS

Guests enjoyed their Exeter Living cover star moments

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CATEGORY WINNERS

ARTS

PHOTOS BY NICK MAT THEWS

WINNER:

POSITIVE LIGHT PROJECTS

BUSINESS SERVICES Sponsored by

CHARITY

WINNER:

WINNER:

SETSQUARED EXETER

BTHECHANGE CIC

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BAR

WINNER:

BARNOVA, THE CHRISTMAS MARKET BARS

CAFÉ

WINNER:

Sponsored by

COFFERY & CO

CIVIC

WINNER:

Sponsored by

EXETER WORKS AND YOUTH HUB DEVON


EXETER LIVING AWARDS

CREATIVE

EVENT

WINNER:

ALTUM MEDIA

WINNER:

Sponsored by

GUILDFEST FAMILY FESTIVAL

HAIR & BEAUTY

WINNER:

CORALINE ORGANIC SKINCARE

EDUCATION

FOOD/DRINK PRODUCER Sponsored by

HEALTH & WELLBEING

WINNER:

BOO TO A GOOSE THEATRE

WINNER:

CAKE OR DEATH

WINNER:

PETE’S DRAGONS www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 19


EXETER LIVING AWARDS

HOMES & INTERIORS

WINNER:

LEISURE & TOURISM

WINNER:

Sponsored by

PEOPLE SERVICES

NATURAL DESIGN STUDIO

BEAR TOWN

WINNER:

PI SOCIETY

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LEGAL & FINANCIAL

WINNER:

NEW BUSINESS

WINNER:

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

PROPERTY Sponsored by

PREMIER FINANCIAL PLANNING

ACUITIS OPTICIANS AND HEARING CENTRE

WINNER:

KTA ARCHITECTS


EXETER LIVING AWARDS

RESTAURANT

WINNER:

EAT THE BIRD

SUSTAINABILITY

JOINT WINNERS:

EBB TIDES SEAWEEDS AND IXORA ENERGY

RETAILER Sponsored by

WINNER:

ECO BABY BOX

TECHNOLOGY JOINT WINNERS: & INNOVATION NEWZAPP

COMMUNICATIONS AND VIRTUAL TOUR EXPERTS

Sponsored by

PLATINUM AWARD WINNER:

BTHECHANGE CIC

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ARCHITECTS

AWARDS 2022

Charlotte Hanson and Swati Grola

PHOTOS BY EMILY APPLETON ON PAGES 22 AND 25 PHOTOS BY SIMON TUT T Y ON PAGES 27, 29 AND 31

Liz Finnie and Lene Rayner

Hylda Stewart, Ros Vincent, Justin Pensham, Laura Robertson, Alice McGowen, Caroline Gee, and Louise Watts

Richard Carpenter, Claire Walpole, John Harvey and William Nowell The Great Hall

Ray Spurr and Mass Barbato James Gardner and Sarah-Jane Tyas-Peterson

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Katherine Wall and Liz Griffiths Glen King and Catherine Heuer

Co-host Chris Bentley

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Award Winning Indoor Role Play Experience for children aged 1 to 7 years

FIND US TODAY We're open daily! Located on B3181 between Exeter and Cullompton, come and join the fun!

Award winning WINNER

Book now www.beartown.co.uk | Westcott, Cullompton, Devon, EX15 1RZ |



ARCHITECTS

EXETER LIVING AWARDS

Sophie Withers and Luke Fleming

The Bear Town winners rejoice

Chris Walsh, Louise Jones, Anna Morgan and Beth Ardron

Anthony Ruocco, Cam Waters, Liz Wadeson, Andy Cule and Douglas Moffat

Claire Walpole

Ben Jordan, Adele Wordsworth, Tori Isaac, Carolyn Davey, Lee Ogden and Claire Jordan

Chantelle Znideric Hoorah!

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Phil Sheppard and Tom Butlar

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Harriet Noble and Ruby Borg

Liam Jones and Ivy Haddon-Silver

Marie (Mimi) and Mark Cassidy Nuala Edgar, Toni Kemble, Sarah Knight, and Robyn Warwick

The NewZapp Communictions gang and pals

Nathan Hoare and Abby Millar

Xxxx Design Studio winners Natural Kirsten Clarke, Hannah Overton and Sue Cade

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Standing ovations Liz Arriens, Kevin Troy and Ed Arriens

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EXETER LIVING AWARDS

Christian Olesen, Sarah Steele and Mushtaq Jaigirdar

Eat the Bird winners

bthechange CIC winners Ruth Wells and Dr Mary Ryan

Karin Joehr and Andrew Butler Snap happy

Greg Ingham and Drew Ellis Sarah Jepson and Louise Glanville

David Chamberlain and Sarah Knight

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Production


Exeter Works and Youth Hub Devon

Chris Bentley, George Barron and Brendan Barry Kirsty Hammond, Ellie Hammond, Will Hammond and John Hammond

NewZapp Communications winners! Daffne Zamudio

Chris Bentley and Nicky Dunn

Kezia Paget and Katie Cross

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Charlotte McGregor and Peter McGregor

A moment for Ukraine: Chris Bentley and Greg Ingham

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© NICK MAT THEWS

bthechange CIC team: Josephine Olszelwski, Josh Stunell, Sarah-Jane TyasPeterson, Hannah Chapman

bthechange CIC

Local enterprise bthechange CIC scooped both the Charity and the overall Platinum Award at our recent Exeter Living Awards. Their work is not straightforward stuff; they navigate complex bureaucracy to provide much-needed support to individuals entering, or at risk of entering, the criminal justice system. We chat to founder and CEO Josh Stunell to find out about the team’s mission...

J

osh founded bthechange CIC back in 2016 with the aim of helping to support people turn their lives around. He found the criminal justice system wanting in certain areas of support and knew that, as a result, this was having a long-term negative impact on both the perpetrators and victims. Convinced that there was a need for more help, he wanted to provide holistic support for people, particularly at the early stages. Without this, it seemed highly likely that individuals would not be able to move forward with their lives. Through bthechange CIC, he and the team run programmes in three key areas: support, education and transition. The aim stays the

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

same as ever: to be bold, entrepreneurial, and challenge and norm. Firstly, what are the some of the issues when it comes to the criminal justice system?

Nearly half of convicted adults (48 per cent) are reconvicted for another offence within one year of release, the economic and social costs of recidivism is £18.1 billion per annum. About 74,800 men and 13,500 women are sent to prison in the UK every year, many on remand or to serve short sentences for nonviolent crimes, often for a first offence.

There are a myriad of reasons why people get into trouble with the law, and it’s therefore complex, I imagine, to help someone turn their life around.

Where do you start?

We have a unique perspective and ability to inspire those we work with. We understand the multitude of hidden consequences of a having a conviction, we understand the shame, guilt, anger, the loss of loved ones, the labelling and misjudgements. We often find that our thinking is slightly different to others when it comes to our approach to working practice. We challenge wherever we see or experience things that we do not think are just or in the best interest of the people we work with. We use our voice to elevate the voice and concerns of others and to raise key issues facing the people in the criminal justice system. We are committed to being part of a positive shift within the system to better address the needs of our clients, which we believe will in turn have a positive effect on reducing criminality in the future.


BIG INTERVIEW system is not working. With nearly half of all people convicted being reconvicted within 12 months at a cost of £18 billon, we as a society have to do things differently as clearly it is not working and the answer is not to build more prisons and throw more money at it. Where possible, addictions need to be treated as a medical issues and not as criminal matters and trauma needs to addressed as a matter of course for as many people as possible entering the criminal justice system.

What are the some of the challenges people may face?

The biggest stumbling blocks are a lack of suitable accommodation and lack of investment in community drug and alcohol services, equally the “google effect” is not helpful as it does not allow people to move on and leave their past behind People who find themselves on the wrong side of the law come from all walks of life but what are the commonalities?

Women’s offences are commonly linked to underlying mental health needs, drug and alcohol problems, coercive relationships, financial difficulties, and debt. Over half the women in prison report having suffered domestic violence and one in three has experienced sexual abuse. Many of them have dependent children and are separated from them by imprisonment, every year nearly six out of ten women leaving prison have nowhere safe to go. Of the thousands of clients we have seen, most have unresolved childhood trauma, with high numbers of men disclosing adverse childhood effects (ACES). 43 per cent of our clients have substance misuse issues, 41 per cent have accommodation issues, 16 per cent have employment issues. The percentage of prison leavers engaged with community services following release only reaches 27 per cent.

bthechange CIC PROGRAMMES

SUPPORT: Mentoring Programme for clients released under investigation / police bail Through a 16-week peer mentoring programme bthechange CIC support individuals and their families at the pre-sentence stage of the criminal justice system (particularly first-time entrants). EDUCATION: Schools Crime Consequence & Anti-Social Behaviour Diversion Programme This programme empowers teenagers to explore, understand, challenge, and change attitudes that may lead to anti-social or criminal activity. Transition (Prison Exit Programme) Working with the regions prisons, the programme offers clients who are due to be released (within three months) the opportunity to meet with, engage and plan their resettlement needs with our mentors. Immediate needs are met such as: phone calls, giving breakfast and coffee, sorting out medication issues, calling probation, speaking to family, handing out clothing.

How difficult was Covid for you and how did the organisation have to adapt?

Josh Stunnell started the company in 2016

“Some of the interventions that my team deliver are truly ground-breaking” What were the difficulties in setting the organisation up?

The biggest challenges have been obtaining long-term sustainable funding. Everything is so short-term, so to remain sustainable has required a great deal of creativity. Equally statutory funding streams are very rigid, and this has made the whole process ultra-competitive and has forced many organisations to work in silos to protect their income; this does nothing for collaboration and partnership working of which is key in making a tangible difference to people’s lives as no one organisation has the solution, the best social outcomes are delivered by partnerships. We are supported by some excellent grantmaking organisations and trusts as well as some statutory providers. What is a success story for you?

We do not focus on rehabilitation, we focus on helping people to move forward with their lives, which ultimately means that they are in a better place now than they were before they met us. Sometimes that looks like minor steps like not being recalled to prison for 12 months and in some other cases that can look like massive steps: rebuilding family relationships, being substance-free and employed. Either way our service is not a generic offer and is focused on the individual and supporting them to ‘achieve’.

Do you think there is a level of ignorance towards people who have broken law?

I think society needs to made aware that the

In normal times, people leaving prison are anxious about adapting to life and accessing support. Covid made prison transition extremely traumatic for many leavers. We put plans in place to ensure that we could continue to provide vital support for our clients, as a result we adapted our mentoring model to enable us to continue to support our clients whilst adhering to government guidance. We felt it was extremely important that we did not allow our clients to feel abandoned at that time of distress and uncertainty. It was critical to ensure that communication was consistent – if not, all the good work that we had done previously would have been harmed. What is the most challenging thing about running this organisation?

The most challenging element is undoubtably having to deal with all of the red tape, bureaucracy and politics when all we are trying to do is help people What is the best thing about it?

Without doubt the pride I feel by the way my team treat and respond to our clients’ needs, the compassion and humanity shown is truly inspirational. Some of the interventions that my team deliver are truly ground-breaking. You won both the Charity and the Platinum Award at the Exeter Living Awards...

Winning these awards was incredibly special and it was so humbling to be acknowledged and rewarded for all of the blood, sweat and tears shed in developing the organisation, many a time I have felt like giving up so to get this recognition is so appreciated and has given me additional belief and confidence to try and do even more. The judges said your work was inspirational. What continues to inspire you?

I am inspired by the diversity of our team who come from a multitude of backgrounds, with varied cultures, beliefs and sexual orientations. We truly are a company that represents modern society. My team are sensational and the best in the business. n www.bthechange.org.uk

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re sto t . st we tree ne h S ur Hig it o er Vis Exet

on

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FOOD & DRINK NIBBLES FROM EXETER’S FOOD SCENE

© MAT T AUSTIN

The terrific trio: Harry Thorne, Olivia Carbonair and Robin Rea

KIND OF A PIG DEAL Tasty plates await

© MAT T AUSTIN

That’s the spirit

The distinctive site is right by the water’s edge

A new breakfast, bistro and cocktail bar is due to open on Exeter’s Magdalen Road on 22 April. Little Oink is located on the former Meat 59 premises and is owned by Robin Rea, owner of the Rusty Pig in Ottery, and Harry Thorne, a St Leonards local. Little Oink’s food offering is grounded in Robin’s commitment to local sourcing, high welfare meat, the freshest ingredients and showcasing great produce from the region. Food starts with breakfast served from 8am with choices including Rusty Pig firm favourite Pigout – a full English that features Robin’s homemade black pudding, sausages and bacon. Other choices include baked eggs and devilled kidneys, with a signature vodka-based Bloody Oinker on offer too. The evening bistro service offers a weeklychanging menu with three starters, mains and desserts including options for meat, fish and vegetarian dining. The menu will change each week although the team promise that they will be serving oysters every day.

Joining the team is chef Olivia Carbonari, who happened to stroll past and stuck her head round the door to find out what was going on. Her inquisitiveness paid off; shortly after, she was appointed as Little Oink’s head chef. Olivia trained at the Ashburton Chef ’s Academy before stints at Lympstone Manor and Topsham seafood restaurant The Galley where she honed her skills. She says her cooking is ‘rustic with a fine dining twist’ and that she’s looking forward to bringing a different taste experience to Magdalen Road. Robin is over the moon with the appointment. “Olivia’s exactly what we were looking for, she has exactly the right experience as well as a hunger to develop her own style.” Visitors can also expect an extensive range of cocktails, local ales and cider, Rusty Pig fizz and a curated wine list from Christopher Piper and Iain Smith Wines, plus some extremely funky interiors. For more: www.littleoink.co.uk

QUAY TO SUCCESS A new gin distillery, restaurant and bar has recently opened in Exeter. Aptly named Quayside, the new spot is located on the Quayside, it is a working distillery offering tours where visitors can learn about the innovation distillation methods and even make their open gin, handpicking the botanical and locallysourced ingredients. The restaurant will serve up Mediterranean-inspired small plates. On the menu at the moment is oak-smoked Cecina (cured beef, radish, aged manchego), chorizo a la plancha (chorizo, roasted pepper and pickled red onion on bruschetta) and Exmoor caviar served on a bed of ice with crackers. The bar sells a variety of local gins, others spirits, wines and beer. For more: www.quaysidedistillery.co.uk

The property has undergone a huge renovation

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FOOD & DRINK

clockwise from top left: Head to March

on South Street; eggcellent breakie at No 1 Polsloe; donuts to die for at March

LOVE YOU BRUNCHES

O

Our columnist, ballet-dancing home cook, foodie and blogger TARA SMITH has a passion for all things independent and local

ne of the most asked questions over on my Instagram is “Tara, where is good for brunch?” so this little roundup is for all of you fellow food fanatics looking for somewhere new to visit to fulfil your fix of eggs, bacon and coffee. First on my list is No 1 Polsloe. This spot on the corner of Polsloe Road serves only breakfast and brunch dishes and is Exeter’s original brunch café. The interior is laid back, cool with long tables for sharing and smaller intimate tables if you fancy a more private experience. Expect American-style pancakes served with maple syrup and bacon, avocado toast with perfectly poached eggs or go all out with their No1 Polsloe special… cheesy baked beans on toast topped with fried mushrooms, a

fried egg and your choice of either crispy bacon or vegetarian sausages. Are you drooling yet? Harry’s on Longbrook Street is an Exeter institution. This family-run eatery is in its 28th year of business and for good reason. The menu is ever changing, the service is above and beyond and it has an atmosphere that you only get at Harry’s. The only way I can describe it is you feel like you belong. It feels like home from home. Harry’s is always first on my list for any meal of the day in all honesty but it has become a tradition that I brunch here on my birthday! That’s reminded me. I must book. It’s not that far away now. You can get a fancy Full English but how about steak and eggs or Eggs Royale? If you want something a little lighter ask for the homemade granola or a bacon butty. One thing that elevates Harry’s over other brunch spots in town is the option to have a cocktail. Treat yourself to a mimosa, bellini or how about a marmalade vodka martini?

March on South Street is a leading force when it comes to city centre brunching. They serve their menu all week with additions available Friday – Sunday. A favourite of mine on their menu is their homemade cherry, pistachio and cacao nib granola served with fresh fruit, yoghurt and rosemary honey. If you want something more substantial they have an array of things on sourdough toast. Of course, you can get your avo on toast but try something a little different in the form of harissa black beans with smoked tofu, chive oil and pea shoots. They also serve THE best selection of handmade donuts in Exeter. They are made in house and can only be described as chefs kiss. The flavours are forever changing and there is always a vegan option for those that want it. My personal favourite is the lemon and pistachio; it’s wonderful. For more, head to Tara’s Instagram: @tarasbusykitchen www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 37


© NICK HOOK

MARGOUX RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

Lots of style, heaps of substance. The new Margoux is a delight By Harriet Noble

M

y FOMO reached new heights on the night of the launch party for Margoux. I couldn’t attend as the big C had me stuck indoors so I was left gazing through the window of Instagram watching as the party unfolded. The chandelier! The roof terrace! The fabulous wallpaper! Some fancy cars outside! Someone playing the piano! It looked like a great night. Anyhow, all better, and itching to get out and about once more in Exeter, my friend and I made it to Margoux for supper and had our very own party-for-two evening. Margoux is not new, of course, but they’ve moved from smaller premises in Mary Arches Street to the very spacious spot in Princesshay. The glass-fronted entrance leads you to rows of comfy leather green armchairs at marble-covered tables, tall ceilings and a sparkler of a

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

chandelier and bold wildlife-themed wallpaper (peacocks on the main wall, snakes and butterflies on the one by the stairs). Upstairs is the bar area, a decadent midnight-blue room, on the fun side of louche, which leads out to the showstopper outdoor terrace where you can spot Exeter’s own dreamy Exeter Cathedral spires. But for anyone who doesn’t get wowed with statement interiors and only cares about what’s on the plate do not worry – this restaurant is not a case of all style and no substance because the food is really really really good. I loved it. Every course. Every mouthful. For starters, I had the miso caramel pork belly with apple, celeriac remoulade and spring onion. The miso and caramel flavours spread their salty-sweet wings out, creating flavoursome yet mellow mouthfuls. My pal went for the salt and pepper oyster mushrooms which came with sweet soy ketchup and sesame and lime; she loved this dish, especially the addition of chilli that gave it a sprightly kick. Mains for me was tandoori cauliflower with Israeli cous cous, served with preserved lemon dressing and


© NICK HOOK

© HARRIET NOBLE

© NICK HOOK

RESTAURANT

“I try not to go for superlatives but this might just be the best dessert I’ve ever had in Exeter” DINING DETAILS Margoux, 20 Bedford Street, Exeter; www.margoux.co.uk In a nutshell Restaurant and cocktail bar, with a terrace overlooking the city Food Imaginative and colourful plates. They serve breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday lunch menus. For the dinner menu, starters from £7, mains from £14, desserts from £8.50

© HARRIET NOBLE

fried cauliflower leaves; a surprising and imaginative dish that I’ve not had before. I loved all the componants here: the crunchy cauliflower, the salty ash-like leaves, and the shiny, bulbous cous cous. The lemon dressing brought it all together and made it sing. My friend had the roasted squash risotto with pumpkin seed pesto and roast mushroom and hazelnuts. Similarly, she loved this great ensemble piece and, just generally, the originality of the veggie menu offerings. Tropical choux buns were my dessert of choice. I try not to go for superlatives in restaurant reviews but this might be the best dessert I’ve ever had in Exeter. It came with passion fruit ganache, lime leaf cream and mango and was so summery, refreshing and joyful. It really made me happy. My party companion had the tonka bean crème brûlée which came with warm sugared Yorkshire puddings and was equally loved and lingered over. The team here have created a really fun spot in the city. There may be elements of the swanky about it, no bad thing in my book, but it’s backed up by the quality and creativity of the food which is simply sublime. n

Opening hours Seven days a week. Monday and Tuesday 10am-6pm, Wednesday 10am-11pm, Thursday 10am-10pm, Friday 9am-12am, Saturday 9am-12am, Sunday 12pm-10pm Atmosphere Cool, fun and friendly Anything else? Live music, think acoustic guitars, on Fridays and Saturdays and a bit of piano on Sundays

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SPONSORED CONTENT

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EAR WAX PROBLEM?

We are a Consultant led service consisting of Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists, Consultant Paediatrician, Consultant Psychologist and a team of allied health professional associates. We provide assessment, advise and support for any physical health, mental health, neurodevelopmental or complex problem. EPIC Solutions, Holmedale Health, The Consulting Rooms, 34 Denmark Road, Exeter, EX1 1SE Website: epicsolutions.co.uk Email: admin@epicsolutions.org.uk Phone: 01392 247872

Living with ear wax buildup can cause isolation, distress and a general feeling of being unwell. EAR MATTERS EXETER tells us more...

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oanna Todd and Rebecca Templeton are two Exeterbased nurses with extensive experience in healthcare. Both qualified to perform ear wax removal, they set up their private business as they understood that patients weren’t able to access this service easily. They are the first independent Private Nurses doing ear wax removal in Exeter who have gained registration with the Quality Care Commission (CQC, www.cqc.org.uk). The CQC regulates the NHS and GP surgeries, ensuring a high quality of practice that is safe and effective, including training, management, health and safety, governance. It is worth noting that not all ear microsuction providers are regulated with the CQC. With many years experience in Primary and Secondary NHS care, Joanna and Rebecca love working as nurses, and enjoy having a professional relationship with their clients. Patient-centred care that is both effective and responsive is the starting point. At all appointments you will be given the time talk about your reason for attending, and be provided with a clear explanation of what treatment may be given. Microsuction to remove ear wax is known to be an effective and safe treatment. At Ear Matters Exeter the nurses offer timely appointments to both examine the ear for wax and carry out microsuction wax removal. The nurse-led clinic is held centrally in Exeter at 34 Denmark Road. There is a disability parking slot outside the building, with a pay and display car park five minutes walk away. The clinic space has good disability access. ■

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HEALTH & WELLBEING B R I N G I N G YO U A L L T H E G O O D S T U FF F O R T H E M I N D, B O DY A N D S O U L

St Sidwell’s Point memberships start from £25pm

STARTING POINT The wait is nearly over. Exeter’s new state-ofthe-art leisure centre will be open to the public from 10am on 29 April. St Sidwell’s Point is the UK’s first Passivhaus leisure centre, meaning it has been built and designed to use up to 70 per cent less energy than a conventional pool and leisure centre. The new leisure centre on Paris Street features an eight-lane, 25m main pool and four-lane, 20m learner pool, both with moveable floors making learning to swim accessible to all who visit. It also features a 100-station gym, fitness studios and luxury spa facilities. “It has been a long time coming but I can assure everyone that the wait will be worth it,” says council leader Phil Bialyk. “I want to thank everyone involved for all of their hard work in getting us to this point.” The centre has already been shortlisted for a major industry award – even before opening – in the Construction News Awards in the Project of the Year category. The winner will be revealed during a ceremony in May. St Sidwell’s Point will be open from 6.30am until 10pm, Monday to Friday, and from 8am until 8pm on Saturday and Sunday. Memberships for Exeter Leisure are available now from £25pm via the Exeter Leisure App or here: www.exeter.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture ALL PHOTOS © TIM PESTRIDGE

CHECK-IN TIME

Wellbeing Works offers wellbeing check-ins

A new wellbeing programme has launched in Devon that will support people and businesses, helping them to prioritise their wellbeing and resilience as we continue to recover from the pandemic. Wellbeing Works has been set up by Independent charity Devon Communities Together (DCT), and will enable people to access free one-to-one wellbeing check-ins with trained volunteers or join one of a series of online workshops designed to share tools and techniques for better wellbeing. Each workshop features an expert speaker and participants can join in as much or as little as they like, with no pressure. “As recently as February 2022, research showed that that 43 per cent adults in the UK said they were worried or somewhat worried about the effect of the pandemic on their lives right now and around a third of adults say their mental health has got much worse

since March 2020,” says Michelle McCartan, bestselling wellbeing author and project manager at Devon Communities Together. “The one-to-one wellbeing check ins are a great way to support people to proactively focus on their wellbeing. They focus on helping participants to limit stress, experience greater peace of mind, build resilience, feel connected and supported, identify opportunities, and perform and feel at their best. “There’s a tangible benefit for businesses too, with statistics showing that stress, depression or anxiety accounted for 50 per cent of all work-related ill health cases in UK in 2020/21. It really does pay to look after your team’s wellbeing and we can arrange organisation-wide workshops to help give your employees a real boost.” For more: www.devoncommunities.org.uk

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HEALTH AND WELLBEING The main house looks out over Otter Valley

THE PIGAT COMBE

Great escapes don’t get much better than a stay at this Elizabethan country house By Harriet Noble


M

y shoulders drop a good three inches before I’ve even entered the front doors of the main house at The Pig-at Combe. The long driveway courses through Otter Valley, panoramic views of Devon countryside await you at the top. Beautiful, and so very still, you can’t help but exhale deeply. The team tell me of summer evenings here when guests sit outside, gin and tonic in hand, watching the sun setting on those pinky skies. I’m at the country house hotel for a night of relaxation which kicks off with a bespoke 60-minute hot stone massage, also known as a ‘mindful dream’. Settled into the cosy potting shed treatment room, lovely Lily gets to work using heated volcanic stones. It is said that one stone movement is the equivalent to 10 hand movements and I can believe it. Such is the smoothness and the fluidity of movement I don’t know where her hands stop and the stones begin. What I feel is this gorgeous warmth travelling down my body. I can’t help but visualise this orange glowing light radiating through my body, penetrating out rays of heat into my skin, sinking though my muscles and deep into my bones, melting away layers of tension. I love the fact that this massage is a full 60 minutes. I’m sure I’m not alone here but when I’ve had a 30-minute treatment in the past, my mind whirrs, my internal voice saying, “It’s going to be over any second so you must enjoy every second of this” which is, obviously, not remotely relaxing. 60 minutes, however, is ample time to send me into a heavenly semiconscious zenland. My room for the night is a beautifully restored Horsebox, located on the ground floor of the converted stable yard, separate to the main house. Maintaining and celebrating its history, the original stable partitions have been kept, and separate different parts of my accommodation – the bedroom, bath area, and mini kitchen. It’s a really beautiful room and I particularly love the super-king four poster bed, mammoth walk-in shower and pigshaped biscuits left out for me.

The PIG-AT COMBE DETAILS The Pig-at Combe, Gittisham, Honiton; www.thepighotel.com. About 30 minutes’ drive from central Exeter.

ACCOMMODATION A unique set of rooms showcasing the heritage of the buildings. Choices include The Horsebox, The Hayloft, Chicken Run Cottage, and Stream Cottage. All rooms have a larder that is well-stocked with vintage treats. Rooms start at £225.

Comfy sofas await you at The Pig

Following Lily’s suggestions, I have my postmassage bath which gives me the chance to try out products I’ve been given. The Pig has recently partnered with Irish skincare brand VOYA for their treatments. Using the healing properties of seaweed, VOYA creates products which are packed with

“It is said that one stone movement is the equivalent to 10 hand movements” minerals vitamins and antioxidant properties that do wonders for the skin. The bag of seaweed works as a giant bath bomb and also an exfoliator; turning my bath into a mini ocean and making me feel not unlike Ariel aka the Little Mermaid. Supper at The Pig begins at the cocktail bar. Nestled into a large sofa, sat next to a roaring fire, I enjoy a sloe gin, blackberry and ginger ale cocktail. Pre-supper nibbles of generous strips of crackling and arancini balls dipped

into warm apple sauce are brought to me. Moving into the restaurant, I kick off with a starter of Somerset buffalo mozzarella on a garden salad, with tarte blood orange dressing, bitter radicchio, and fresh mint. It’s a joyful, punchy mix of textures and flavours. Main course is lamb leg with pease pudding and kalettes and a side of crunchy, moreish tobacco onions. Pinky and delicate, the lamb is tasty and tender as can be, the pease pudding bringing a comfort-food sensibility to the plate. Pudding is lemon meringue which is light, airy annd marshmallowy, taking me right back into my childhood. The UK is, of course, not short of historic, grand hotels set in rural surroundings. The Pig’s USP is in creating a country house that feels nothing like a hotel. The rooms are all unique, the interiors are not matchy-matchy, the staff wear jeans and there’s a strictly informal and friendly atmosphere here – all are made to feel welcome. I was going solo on my visit and I particularly loved feeling comfortable hanging out in the communal lounge room areas, sat next to a blazing fire, happily curled up with a drink and getting lost in a book. Heaven. n

TREATMENTS

DRINKS

The potting shed treatments use products by VOYA and include hot stone massages, anti-aging restorative facial, resurfacing radiance facials. All treatments are £115.

Extensive wine list which includes 19 French red wines and a sizeable selection of local wines. The cocktail bar is a must on your visit too, the décor is all deep burgundies and tasselled lampshades and the cocktails are sublime. Cocktails start at £9.

FOOD Eat in the beautiful panelled restaurant or in the conservatory. Everything on your plate comes from the on-site garden or from a 25-mile radius. Starters £8-£12; mains £16-£31; desserts £7-£14.50.

While you’re there… If you’ve got even a passing interest in history or architecture you’ll want to have a good snoop around the house so do

ask one of the staff for a tour. I loved visiting the Georgian kitchen with its original bells, vast ovens and clocks, the herb rooms, and the huge cellar. The bountiful gardens and veg patches are well worth a visit too. Here you’ll find no less than 13 types of mint, a smoke house where they make their own salt, a mushroom house, and infusion garden where the herbs get used in the massage treatments.

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SUPPORTING YOUR MENTAL WELLBEING PSYCHOLOGY ASSOCIATES talks mental health awareness and the importance of supporting our health and wellbeing

T

he ongoing impact of the Coronavirus pandemic and current global events have had a major impact on all of us and, for some of us, our mental health has suffered. Although the last two years have been different for everyone, we have all shared high levels of uncertainty, unpredictability, and repeated experiences of disappointment. This has been stressful for everyone in varying degrees. As we emerge from this challenging period, we need time to reflect on how we are doing. Now more than ever, it is so vital to ensure that we regularly check in with ourselves and each other to support our mental health and wellbeing. We can do a lot to support our wellbeing through good self-care practices, but sometimes we may need some extra help from an

experienced mental health professional. Working with a professional can help us to feel better and to make permanent positive changes to our thinking or ways of doing things that can last a lifetime. At Psychology Associates, we are passionate about making a meaningful difference to people’s lives. We work with children and adults therapeutically in person or remotely. We are highly qualified, skilled and experienced to work with a variety of difficulties including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, chronic pain, loss and bereavement, relationship issues, menopause, gender and sexuality issues. Our multidisciplinary team can also help with parenting, sleep difficulties, learning difficulties, ASC and sensory difficulties. Mental health awareness is also very important within workplaces, and our team is committed to

helping businesses become more mental health and trauma informed. We provide support such as training, consultation and supervision sessions to organisations to help them work towards improving wellbeing in the workplace. n

For more information about how we can support you, please contact us. 0300 303 5233. www.psychologyassociates.org.uk enquiry@psychologyassociates.org.uk



© HARRIET NOBLE

© HARRIET NOBLE

DAYTRIPPERS

© HARRIET NOBLE

© HARRIET NOBLE

A whistle-stop tour of charming Chagford By Harriet Noble

clockwise: Tower House in the town square, St Michael the Archangel Church, The Beehive Farm shop & Cafe, Three Hares Gallery


OUT OF TOWN CHAGFORD OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOL

© FOLKLORE

The pool is located half a mile out of the town and is the largest river fed open air swimming pool in the South West. It opens for the season on 28 May. www.chagfordswimmingpool.co.uk

H

Check out the social events at Folklore Kitchen and Social

ow many small towns can boast a cheese shop, wine shop, a large outdoor swimming pool, and have breath-taking Dartmoor on the doorstep? The pretty market town of Chagford, just 22-odd miles outside of Exeter, has amenities – and charm – in spades. It doesn’t feel gentrified or ‘smart’ though; its soul remains perfectly intact. On my visit, I could barely get round all the places I wanted to because everybody, and I mean everybody, was so chatty and friendly. Here are some recommendations for when you visit…

© FOLKLORE

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK I headed to Folklore Kitchen and Social (as recommended to me by the nice people I met in the church, more on that later) and what a recommendation it was. This newish café (opened during Covid) is a welcoming, trendyleaning spot serving colourful and inventive food. I had a pear and fennel salad on my visit but there’s also a good choice of Smørrebrød, the Scandinavian-inspired open sandwiches, with toppings that include satay kimchi and dry-cured ham; and there’s waffles, eggs and avocado served every which way, porridge, a kids’ menu and cakes from Exeter’s very own Exploding Bakery. Owner Matt Tanner runs loads of events here too. Regular slots include monthly open mic sessions and quiz nights. On 7 May, Matt will also be hosting a Japanese dining experience. Where else? The Old Forge Caffè &

CHAGFORD DIRECTORY FOOD

(addresses shown where there is no website) Folklore Kitchen and Social; www.folklorekitchenandsocial.co.uk Ring O’Bells; www.ringobellschagford.co.uk The Old Forge Caffe & Restaurant, 6 The Square The Birdcage, 11 The Square The Green Man Cafe & Cakes, 4 - 6 High Street The Chagford Inn; www.thechagfordinn.co.uk

Restaurant, The Birdcage, Green Man Café and Cakes, Ring O’Bells and The Chagford Inn. If you’re on the go there are some great foodie shops all sourcing and celebrating local produce. Check out The Beehive Farm Shop and Cafe, Blacks Delicatessen, Beachwood Bakery, Jaded Plates Wines, and Fat Mouse Dairy for, you’ve guessed it, cheese. SHOPPING The shopping in Chagford is fantastic. I loved the treasure trove that is James Bowden & Son Hardware store; it’s one of those shops that goes back and back and up and down and all around. It sells just about everything and it made me want to play hide and seek in there. If it’s clothes you’re after, check out Divine and Casa Magnolia, and Proper Job Uptown for pre-loved clothes. Head to the elegant Rue des Fontenelles for French and European antiques, art and homeware pieces; and tucked inside the pretty eight-side Market House in the centre of Chagford is The Dartmoor Shepherd, which sells everything from hot water bottles to rugs. ART/ MAKERS Drop into the lovely Artisan where you’ll find work from over 40 local makers including leather, glass, ceramics, stone and textiles. For those who love wildlife-themed art, pay a visit to the oh-so pretty Three Hares Gallery for paintings, sculptures and ceramics celebrating the wildlife of Dartmoor. The Beehive Farm Shop and Cafe, 76 The Square Blacks Delicatessen; www.blacks-deli.com Beachwood Bakery; www.beachwoodbakery.com Jaded Palates Wines; www.jadedpalates.com Fat Mouse Dairy, 36 The Square

SHOPPING

Divine, 8 The Square Casa Magnolia, 38 The Square Uptown, 32a The Square Rue Des Fontenelles; www.ruedesfontenelles.co.uk The Dartmoor Shepherd; www.thedartmoorshepherd.co.uk

WALKING AROUND You’re on the edge of Dartmoor here so there are plenty of great hiking opportunities, with the moors on one side and the River Teign on the other. Within the town, definitely worth a visit is St Michael The Archangel Church. On my visit, I was given an impressive impromptu tour by two parishioners which included some eventful tales from the church’s history. I was shown carvings on the floor of the church dating back to 1641, commemorating Mary Whiddo who was, reportedly, shot by a former suitor on her wedding day. It is believed that this inspired R.D Blackmore to write the story of Lorna Doone. A tradition then started in the church, which continues to this day, whereby brides, on their wedding day, lay down a flower from their bouquet on this carving in honour of Mary. Melancholy stories aside, this pretty church has a strong community, thriving choir and hosts events throughout the year. Coming up next is the Queen’s Jubilee Flower Festival in June. STAYING THE NIGHT? For rural getaway spots head to Mill End Hotel or Gidleigh Park (both about five minutes’ drive from the town centre). If you want to be bang in town, try the Three Crowns Inn. LOOK OUT FOR THE HARES! The symbol of three hares running in a circle with their ears joined is said to date back to 581 AD when the symbol was first found in Buddhist caves in China. The symbol made its way to the UK and now has a strong association with Dartmoor. You’ll find hares all over this town: look up while you’re in the church and you’ll see two hare carvings, then there’s the Three Hares Gallery, of course, where you’ll find plenty more! n ART

Artisan; www.artisanmakers.store Three Hares Gallery; www.threeharesgalleryshop.co.uk

ACCOMMODATION

Mill End Hotel; www.millendhotel.com Gidleigh Park; www.gidleigh.co.uk Three Crowns Inn; www.threecrowns-chagford.co.uk

CHURCH

St Michael The Archangel Church; www.chagfordchurch.co.uk

Brunch and lunch delights at Folklore Kitchen and Social www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 47


escape....

TO YOUR DARTMOOR COUNTRY HOUSE HIDEAWAY...

Immerse yourself in the wild glory of Devon’s own Dartmoor National Park, whilst soaking up the hospitality, comfort and warmth on which we pride ourselves here at Mill End. 20 Individually-styled Bedrooms | Beautiful Riverside Gardens 2 AA Rosette Restaurant | Short Drive from Devon Coast Mill End Hotel Dartmoor National Park, Chagford, Devon TQ13 8JN Tel: 01647 432282 | E-mail: info@millendhotel.com millendhotel.com


Casa Magnolia CHAGFORD OUR SPRING/SUMMER COLLECTIONS HAVE

NOW ARRIVED CUT LOOSE NEIRAMI YACCO MARICARD OCHRE KNITWEAR QUERNSTONE KNITWEAR BITTE KAI RAND TERRE ROUGE THE SHIRT COMPANY RED BUTTON JEANS GINGER TOBY OWEN BARRY BAGS Great belts, jewellery and accessories included!

38 The Square, Chagford, Devon, TQ13 8AB 01647 433905 / info@casamagnolia.co.uk

WWW.CASAMAGNOLIA.CO.UK


© RHS/JASON INGR A

NATURE ORDINARY DAY Spring sees the flourishing of gardens and horticultural events a-plenty. Here are just two gardens, one in the city and one less than an hour away, to visit over the next few months

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© RHS/JASON INGR A

Blossoms and tulips at RHS Rosemoor

Pretty gardens at RHS Rosemoor

RHS ROSEMOOR

RHS Garden Rosemoor, Torrington; www.rhs.org.uk If you’re a sucker for a bit of blossom, head to RHS Rosemoor where you’ll find an abundance of cherry trees this spring. The garden centre is packed full of plants, gardening accessories, bagged compost peat-free compost, as well as RHS Exclusive Collections, local artisan produce, horticultural books and sustainable homeware in their shop. Visit the on-site garden kitchen restaurant and treat your taste buds to some fabulous dishes using produce from the garden. If you come with little ones, there’s a play area set in the pine woodland with


© JIM WILEMAN

GARDENS

Veronica Gosling in her fun-filled garden

living willow structures, sand pit, slide, bug magnifiers, stepping logs and climbing frames. Here are a few events happening at RHS Rosemoor over the next month...

7-8 May

PLANT HERITAGE SPRING FAIR Throughout the weekend, discover a wide variety of rare and unusual trees, shrubs and perennials from local Devon nurseries for sale under the Plant Heritage banner – a must for all keen gardeners and plant collectors.

13 May

CEILIDH NIGHT Enjoy live music from Banned from the Moor, a lively group based in and around the southern slopes of Dartmoor. A night of dancing with abandon.

18 May

AN AFTERNOON WITH AMANDA OWEN Enjoy an afternoon with Amanda Owen, the shepherdess, mother to nine children, passionate photographer and Sunday Times bestselling author of books including The Yorkshire Shepherdess. Hear Amanda speak about her love for the great outdoors with her usual good humour and heart-warming tales.

THE SCULPTURE GARDEN AT STUDIO 36

Studio 36, 36 Denmark Road, St Leonards, Exeter; www.studio36exeter.co.uk (the garden is open on weekdays yearround by appointment) The Sculpture Garden at Studio 36 in St Leonards showcases the quirky creations of resident artist Veronica Gosling, alongside contributions from invited artists and friends. Veronica’s magical sculptures are inspired by the shapes, textures and stories behind found objects. Watch out for hanging bicycles and shoes!

© JIM WILEMAN

8 May – 22 May

Hanging bicycles at Studio 36

‘GET ON BOARD’ PROJECT EXHIBITION The adversity of lockdown inspired Veronica’s ‘Get On Board’ project with people from the local community contributing art, photos, poems and stories to be displayed on a beautifully designed noticeboard. There will be a celebration of all the contributions over the last two years, with art hung from washing lines, trees and trellises around the garden. ■

The ‘Get on Board’ exhibition at Studio 36

AND IN YOUR OWN GARDEN...

Gardening tips for the month of May From Bernaville Nurseries, 3 Horse Shoes, Cowley, Exeter; www.bernaville.co.uk IN THE FLOWER GARDEN Feed trees, shrubs, and hedges with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser. Roses and rhubarb tend to be greedy plants and will greatly benefit from feeding as they come into growth. • Tie in climbing and rambling roses. Finish cutting back any dead foliage on perennials and ornamental grasses if you haven’t already done so. This will make way for new growth. • Mulch fruit trees with well-rotted manure or garden compost, taking care not to mound mulch up around the trunk. • Top dress patio fruit trees with fresh compost and a slow-release fertiliser. • Feed raspberry canes, fruit bushes and fruit trees to encourage good crops this season. Apply a fertiliser around the base, we’d recommend using Q4. Check roses, fruit and herbaceous plants for pesticides and diseases such as aphids. Apply organic fungicides and insecticides if needed.

IN THE VEGETABLE GARDEN • Make sure to continue weeding and thin out any vegetable seeds as necessary. Check for slugs and if needed apply organic slug pellets.

LOOKING AFTER YOUR LAWN Sow lawn seed now on well-prepared soil and keep the soil moist while it germinates. • For an instant lawn, lay new turf this month and keep it moist until it’s established. Apply any specialist lawn weed killers to your well-established lawn wherever moss and weeds are a problem.

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RHS BEETLES TROWEL & FORK, £18 This trowel and fork set is made from durable iron with FSC sustainably sourced Ash wood handles. Happy digging. From RHS Garden Rosemoor, Torrington; www.shop.rhs.org.uk

MACRAMÉ HANGER, £19.50 This summery beauty can be hung indoors or outdoors and will liven up any space. From No Guts No Glory, 125 Fore Street, Exeter; www.ngng.co.uk

TAKE IT OUTSIDE

Gorgeous gardening tools and accessories for the green-fingered among you

LARGE GARDEN CITRONELLA CANDLE, £22 This lemony candle sits in a sizeable zinc bucket; great housewarming present. From Distinctly Living, 35 Lower Street, Dartmouth; www.distinctlyliving.co.uk

TRIPLE PACK OF GARDENING GLOVES, £6.99 Adorned with a cheerful chilli pattern and ultra protective. From St Bridget Garden Centre, Sidmouth Road, Clyst St Mary, Exeter; www.stbridget.uk

GARDEN AND BACKYARD BEE HOUSE, £14.95 Hang this bee friendly house in a sheltered spot in your garden. From Hyde and Seek, Unit 1, Harlequins, 1 Paul Street, Exeter; www.hydeseek.co.uk

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

SEED CHUTE, £11 A vibrating chute for sowing those fiddly seeds with ease. From Brit Locker, Kings Wharf, Cellar 1, The Quay, Exeter; www.britlocker.com


ED’S CHOICE FEMALE BUST, £15.99 Put a bit of romance into your garden with this classic female bust. She’s frostproof too, so will withhold chilly climes. From Insideout, 1 Bampfylde Street, Exeter; www.insideouthome.co.uk

MOJAVE GLAZE MINI PLANTER, £8 We love the rustic texture and dip ombre effect on these boho planters. From Hutchhouse Plants, Unit 6, The Depot, Bampfylde Street, Exeter; www.hutchhouseplants.co.uk

BIRDCAGE TEALIGHT HOLDER, £9.95 Find the nearest branch and hang up this vintage tealight holder for your al fresco suppers this summer. From Leaf Street, 53 Magdalen Road, Exeter; www.leafstreet.co.uk GARDENERS HAND THERAPY GIFT SET, £14 Expect a fresh fragrance with hints of citrus, herbs and woody notes in this hand scrub and lotion. A godsend for those hardworking hands. From Toot Garouk, 19 Queen Street, Exeter; www.tootgarook.co.uk

VERTICAL HERB STAND, £104.99 Thyme to get this new spacious home for all your lovely herbs. From Bernaville Nurseries, 3 Horse Shoes, Cowley, Exeter; www.bernaville.co.uk

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It’s the city’s business

EXETERWORKS Ben is happily back in Devon

Mud, mud, glorious mud

FOLLOW THE TRAIL

NEW BUSINESS! A new marketing agency has recently launched in Exeter.

Bayou Creative is a 360-degree marketing agency set up by Ben Harrill which specialises in FMCG (fast moving consumer goods) and adventure brands. The agency’s work sees them create TV ads, new brand logos and packaging, web design, as well as producing marketing strategies and copywriting content. Ben recently returned to the area after living in London. “I grew up in Topsham, and just love being based in Devon,” says Ben. “I was head of creative at Tenzing for four years, and, during Covid, working remotely made me realise how much I love it here still. There are some really cool people creatively down here too, and I wanted to bring some cool business, brands, and creative projects down to the South West. We have some of the best nature and most beautiful scenery here, and I think that should be celebrated.” For more: www.bayou.uk

Devon’s muddiest adventure trail has opened for the new season following an investment of more than £350,000 in new facilities. The winter season, when the Bear Trail is shut, saw work on the site near Cullompton include building of a new facilities block where families can shower

and change after tackling the trail. The team at The Bear Trail are busy planning events for this year, including the popular Colour Bomb on April 30 and May 1 and the Water Wipeout Weekend on June 25 and 26. For more: www.thebeartrail.co.uk

Richard Marsh

10 June, 7pm onwards EXETER CHAMBER SUMMER PARTY AT EXETER CASTLE Moving away from the traditional end of year business dinner, the Chamber is hosting a fun, festival style event with street food from local vendors Big Bear Burgers, Soul Pizza Truck, and Feast17. The team at Barnova will be shaking and stirring some mouth-watering summer cocktails and there’ll be live music from Yonder Folk, Phil Smyth Music and Electric Spank. For more: www.exeterchamber.co.uk 30 June, 9am onwards ENTRECONF After last year’s success, we are running EntreConf to help entrepreneurs with practical advice – financial, legal, marketing, management – and to broker valuable new relationships. To increase our reach and make the greatest impact, EntreConf will once again be run as a virtual event, with a number of networking dinners in the spring and autumn. We seek to bring together some of the most exciting companies of this time who will be among the most valuable businesses in the future. Content and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Email: annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk for more. For more: www.entreconf.com

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

© STEVEN HAY WOOD

ONES FOR THE DIARY!

HELLO CEO Richard Marsh has recently been announced as the first chief

executive officer of Exeter Chamber. In this role, he will help drive membership and awareness of the organisation, alongside the implementation of the agreed strategic plan. Richard brings with him over 30 years of experience gained across marketing, branding and business development; he runs his own marketing and consultancy business and also worked on the rebranding and repositioning of Devon Waste Management to Coastal Recycling. “This appointment is the first in a line of progressive changes for the Chamber,” says Clodagh Murphy, chair of Exeter Chamber. “Having Richard in a dedicated role to lead activity supporting businesses in and close to Exeter is another step forward in realising the potential in our thriving business community.” For more: www.exeterchamber.co.uk


EXETERWORKS Networking

SIX DEGREES

Over 50 women gathered at The Terrace recently for an evening with Emily McGuirk to learn all about the art of ‘Mastering Self Love’. Hosted by female-only networking group, Six Degrees, attendees were treated to luxury goody bags to help kick-start their self love journey. Treats came fromThe Recycled Candle Company, Millie’s Organics, Energy Hair, The Terrace and Luxury Coastal. For more: www.sixdegrees-exeter.co.uk Images by Rosie Parsons Photography

Stacey Seaborn-Hall of Tilney Financial Planning, Holly Bryan and Stephanie Taylor of Trowers Hamlins, Laura Moss of Luxury Coastal

Sarah Jepson, Founder of Six Degrees

Emily McGuirk of Small Steps Big Vision Francesca Parka of Stories, Jodie Atkins, Agata Kolend of Upart Photography, Chrissie Gibbons of Hairdesign

UPCOMING EVENTS WITH SIX DEGREES

Louise Moxhay and Naomi Bowden of Lucky Knight Studio

28 April, 5.30pm-7pm and 7pm-8.30pm ELEVATE YOUR LOOK WITH CHANTELLE ZNIDERICK, AT LORNA RUBY Six Degrees will be hosting this evening which will see Chantelle Znideric, style guru and personal stylist, empower women to be the best versions of themselves by demonstrating hassle-free and thought-provoking style advice. www.sixdegrees-exeter.co.uk

Lizzie Jane, Rachel Miles of One Voice Media, Isla Fair of Archilime, Claire Bryson of Design the New

Xxxx

12 May, 6-9pm SOIRÉE AT THE PIG-AT COMBE, GITTISHAM Six Degrees will be officially launching Six Degrees Memberships. Be the first to learn more about the benefits of joining and grab your place as a fully-fledged member of this growing community of like-minded women. Expect an evening of networking and mingling with smoky wood-even flatbreads and tasty tipples. www.sixdegrees-exeter.co.uk

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

SPACED OUT More than £2 million has been raised to a buy a site close to the Exe Estuary to create a new green space for nature to thrive. The Woodland Trust has successfully secured the funds to buy and begin to transform this Devonshire site, close to Lympstone, into a wooded wildlife haven that will be free for people to enjoy. While the charity has raised enough to buy the 54-hectare site, it still needs to raise £275,000 to manage the transformation of this site into a resilient and thriving wooded landscape. “The site is a remarkable opportunity to contribute to nature recovery in Devon, creating, through tree planting and natural regeneration, a vibrant mosaic of woodland and wood pasture together with open grassland spaces,” says Woodland Trust Devon site manager Paul Allen. “The proximity of it to nature reserves including the Pebblebed Heaths and the Exe Estuary adds to its significance. It will improve the ecological connectivity and resilience of the landscape, as we face the twin threats of the climate and nature crises.” For more: www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

A new business park will be built on this site in Kingskerswell

PARK LIFE area of Devon,” says Burrington Estates commercial land director, Adam Pascoe. “With its accessible location, these high specification commercial properties are designed to meet the needs of both buyers and business tenants. Oak Tree Business Park presents an exciting opportunity for businesses looking for practical, contemporary units in a prime location.” Future phases will provide varying sizes of units from 2,000 up to 10,000 sq ft per unit. When fully complete Oak Tree Business Park will house 36 commercial units and one office with external parking for 165 vehicles. For more: www.burringtonbusinessparks.com

The site near Lympstone will be a wildlife haven

© L AURIECAMPBELL

Land near Newton Abbot is going to be turned into a business park that will provide 80,000 sq ft of energy efficient units suitable for business, general industrial, storage and distribution. Oak Tree Business Park will be the latest commercial development from Devon developers Burrington Estates, who have just purchased the land. The site in Kingskerswell is close to the A380 South Devon Highway, 2.5 miles south of Newton Abbot and strategically located between Torbay and Exeter. Planning approval has been granted and work will commence this May with a 12-month build for phase one comprising of 21 contemporary units each providing at least 1,000 sq ft of commercial space. All units will be built using the latest insulated panel technology, roof mounted solar panels and EV charging capability. “We’re delighted to move forward with this latest development, which addresses a need for high quality new build units to help support the potential for businesses in this

CELEBRATING EXETER PROPERTY

The Exeter Property Awards are back for a second year! From residential to commercial, from lettings to new builds, from civic buildings to bold re-imaginings, Exeter simply teems with clever property companies shaping our city’s destiny and we will celebrating the sector on 21 October. Nominations open on 8 June so stay tuned for more announcements. www.exeterpropertyawards.com

ONLINE CONNECTIONS The Property Symposium is back on 29 April with a virtual conference on sustainability. The morning event, which is sponsored by Action Net Zero, GA Energy, Interaction and Futureground runs from 9am-1pm and is bringing together industry experts for panel sessions and networking opportunities. The Thought Leadership segment

offers dynamic insights via exclusive research into residential and commercial property with Lucian Cook, the head of residential research for Savills, and Jennet Siebrits, the head of research at CBRE. Panellists include senior players from Barefoot Architects, Coutts, JLL, Principality, Interaction, FORE Partnership, Futureground, GA

Energy, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Sero, Socius and BDP – with more to follow. The Property Symposium is powered by a multi-channel regional marketing campaign, building on the success of the Property Awards in Exeter, Bath, Bristol, and Cardiff. www.exeterpropertyawards.com

FROM TOP: Lucian Cook, the head of residential research for Savills, and Jennet

Siebrits, the head of research at CBRE will be offering market insights

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Courtyard Exeter Sandy Park Hotel has a striking exterior

OPEN L DOORS The 40million 250-bedroom Courtyard Exeter Sandy Park Hotel is due to open in just a few weeks. Here we chat to KTA’S Adam Willis, the project architect on this development, to find out how this epic building was created... Photos by KTA Architects 64 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ocal firm KTA Architects is the company behind Courtyard Exeter Sandy Park Hotel, due to open in late April/early May of this year. Their mission was to design a state-of-the-art 250-bedroom hotel that would complement the existing rugby stadium, while also working as a place for both business and leisure and appealing to both a local crowd and visiting guests from far and wide. No small feat, then. Adam Willis, project architect on the development and associate at KTA talks us through their journey...

Hello Adam, the first thing we notice are those eye-catching vertical fins on the outside of the building…

The vertical brise soleil (fins) were designed practically for solar shading, but also as a defining aesthetic for the exterior of the building. As I’m sure you can appreciate, the mass of the building is rather large, and the design intent was to break this mass through movement. The building sits adjacent to the M5 motorway and will be viewed by millions of car users throughout the year. All these moving spectators will notice the wave pattern which offers intrigue and assists in providing a statement building. The fins offer a nod to Exeter as the historic centre for the woolen trade in the South West, and the colour of the fins was carefully selected and pays homage to Devon’s familiar red soil tones. And how about the glazed bridge that links the hotel to Sandy Park stadium…

This was an interesting design feature. We were challenged with


ONE TO ONE bar area, media, library, conferencing and reception. The views are nice from here, however the top floor is the main event with the The View Restaurant, Piano and Cocktail Bar and the external terrace. Does the connection with the rugby stadium bleed through to the interiors?

Indeed, it does. The client has been involved in both the interior specification and artwork throughout the scheme. The artwork in particular relates to Exeter Rugby Club and the city of Exeter, with historic photos and current player images used within the imagery. What were the design challenges, and solutions, with this development?

There have been various iterations of the design, and some challenges along the way (inevitable in such a large scheme), but the most challenging aspect was probably the complexity in the structure. The building was originally designed as tunnel form concrete, but as the scheme developed, we had to evolve the design using a mix of reinforced concrete, hot rolled steel and light gauge steel framing (LGSF). The design benefits from modern methods of construction (MMC) and has utilised both LGSF and modular bathroom pods. Offsite construction has become very popular within the construction industry and it has enabled construction programme benefits and improved health and safety on site.

“The tenacity of the team to build this beast of a building through Covid is impressive”

What, for you, have been the ‘wow’ moments?

top: The bar area with views out over Exeter; above: Sociable open-spaced areas for

eating and drinking

introducing a reception level for the hotel at the fourth storey level. The site sits on Old Rydon Lane, however this meant it was four storeys lower than Sandy Park and has a road dividing the two sites. This quickly led to the decision of having a bridge link from Sandy Park into the hotel and providing a level transition between the two. Tell us about the restaurant...

The restaurant has been named The View and it really is all about that view. On a clear day you can see Exmouth and the sea. Guests are going to have a fantastic experience here. We know this is going to become a popular destination for both locals and guests visiting the city, but I believe game day at Sandy Park will be particularly special with this facility now on their doorstep. Covid struck during the development of this hotel. What were the main challenges of this?

Inevitably Covid did have an impact, but the team involved dealt with the various challenges admirably. The main issues revolved around labour shortages within sub-contractor teams. What is your favourite space at the hotel?

It’s all about the public levels. The entrance level is home to a coffee/

Having taken the project from inception to completion, there have been a few moments – achieving planning, breaking ground, completing the structure, bridge install, fin install and now seeing the interiors reaching completion. Overall, I would have to say the most important ‘wow’ moment was the overall delivery of the project during what has been a challenging time for everyone. The project delivery during Covid has been testament to the whole team and really shows their commitment and belief in the client’s vision and project itself. What will appeal to locals?

This was very important to our client and as a gateway building into the city of Exeter, we wanted to ensure there was something to offer both visitors and locals. The hotel benefits from the The View Restaurant, Piano & Cocktail Bar and an external terrace, all with fantastic views down the River Clyst and on to the Exe Estuary with Exmouth beyond. This floor was additional to Marriott brief and beyond anything with a standard courtyard hotel. The restaurant will provide Devon red beef and locally sourced fish from Brixham demonstrating the best ingredients the county has to offer. It’s worth mentioning that this Courtyard by Marriott will be the flagship hotel for Europe (in terms of scale and spec) and will also be the largest hotel south of Bristol. Lastly, what are you most proud of with this development?

The tenacity of the team to build this beast of a building through Covid is impressive. We hung in there and got through the various bumps in the road. This being said, six years of hard work has gone into this complex building and we are proud to have delivered a landmark building for our client at Sandy Park, the city of Exeter and the South West. We can’t wait for everyone to enjoy. n For more: www.kta.uk.com

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EXETER LIVES

“I have lived, breathed and dreamt this festival” with who have given time and shared their connections to enable the festival to be set up in only a few short months. The Exeter business community have likewise been incredible, providing in-kind support from media and marketing advice to offering venues for key events (thank you IKEA). The biggest breakthrough was possibly when InExeter sponsored the festival, this enabled us to make massive leaps forward with our website design and branding.

HELGA BEER

Helga is the festival coordinator for Cygnet Theatre’s city-wide DREAM Festival, which starts on 29 April. The 10-week festival celebrates the theatre’s 40th anniversary and will see a whopping 162 events happening in 33 venues across the city Hello Helga! Firstly, can you tell us why is the festival called DREAM?

It falls over midsummer and the festival will be peppered with A MidSummer Night’s Dream references – Avanti School is putting on a shortened version of the play at Cygnet. It was the favourite play of our founder Monica Shallis. The festival theme is ‘finding your creative spark’, inspiring people to connect with their creativity and take the first bold steps towards reaching their creative dreams. We were also inspired by the Martin Luther King ‘I have a dream’ speech. There are so many ways that DREAM resonates. The words also stand for Drama, Resilience, Exeter, Arts, Music. The festival is happening all across the city… any unexpected venues?

John Lewis and IKEA aren’t

obvious art venues, but neither are Harry’s restaurant, Topsham Brewery, St Petrock’s shop at 19 Paris Street, The Mint Methodist Church, the historic Guildhall and Princesshay. The festival is all about bringing art to unexpected places and I think we will certainly have hit this marker. We are also super grateful to be working with Exeter Northcott, Exeter RAMM, Exeter Phoenix, The University of Exeter, The Corn Exchange. This festival is not just about the anniversary though…

Having a festival once more is a nod to where it all started but also a genuine desire to connect with other arts organisations in the city and bring a little joy after what has been a tough few years for everyone. Organising this festival, I have been so heartened by the generous attitude of the arts people we have worked

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A 10-week city-wide festival is a huge undertaking, how’s the preparation been so far for you personally?

I have lived, breathed, and dreamt this festival. DREAM Festival couldn’t be a more appropriate name! When I answered an advert for ‘eight hours a week for a festival co-ordinator’, I had a hunch it might entail a little more. I guess it’s a labour of love. As Ros said earlier, there really is something special about Cygnet and once you step through its doors, you cannot help but be enthralled. I certainly have been infected with the theatre bug! What’s been tricky so far?

The challenges have been the time frame, in that we have only had five months to organise everything. The size of the budget has also been challenging but I genuinely believe that challenge promotes creativity. I have certainly had to find creative solutions to problems and some of them have ended up being better than anything that could have been achieved by simply making a bank transfer. I was stressing about the budget once in the presence of our founder Mary Evans, who simply said, ‘My dear, that’s the Cygnet way. You can make it work’. And who am I, to disagree with a woman who has been running the theatre for the past 40 years?

And the joys?

Working with the incredibly dedicated Cygnet team, meeting Mary Evans, watching the students perform and just the privilege of soaking up the special atmosphere at Cygnet. I have loved listening to the fascinating stories principal Ros Williams recounts about past productions. I have enjoyed watching our creative director Alistair Ganley at work with the amazingly talented students. I have learned so much about incredible projects in Exeter, been overwhelmed by the extent of the talent in the city and been heartened by how open and generous people have been. I am not sure if this project would have come together so well in another city. I think there is something magical about the creativity of Exeter people. What are you personally looking forward to?

I can’t wait to see Multi-Story Orchestra play here and I want to see Cygnet’s own production of Twelfth Night. I am also a big fan of the Mellow Tones, so I am looking forward to their set at Cygnet. I write poetry, so shall enjoy Vox! at Cygnet and the Exeter Poetry Slam at The Hall. To be honest, there are too many exciting things to mention. I can’t wait to be out every night for weeks! Lastly, what do you hope will be the legacy of this festival?

I hope we will create lasting relationships with other arts organisations and community groups. I very much hope more people will know about Cygnet Theatre and that there will be a waiting list for our actor training. I hope that in years to come, the festival will be remembered by local people as having been a positive turning point, post pandemic. These are all big ‘dreams’ but that’s what this festival is all about after all! n For more: www.cygnettheatre.co.uk


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