Exeter Living - Issue 308

This issue hits the stands two days shy of the new year – too early in our books to be remotely contemplating leaping off the sofa, jumping into leggings and starting a new healthy lifestyle or self-care regime*.

Instead, in this issue, we take a look at some of the big success stories of 2022, including the Exeter Carnival (see the dazzling pics on page 26); and the exciting crop of new businesses that launched in the city – think cafés, restaurants, galleries and events spaces (page 31).

We also hone in on some truly inspiring organisations set to grow even bigger and bolder in 2023, like Sarah Jepson’s unique networking group, Six Degrees (page 39); and, of course, our front cover stars – RV.ONE, the organisation doing fantastic work to encourage conversations around good mental health (page 16).

Whatever you’re up to, hopefully very little, we wish you all a very Happy New Year. We’ll see you back here in three weeks’ time, leggings optional.

*This will be in the issue out on 20 January!

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ABOVE: RV.ONE out for a winter swim at Exmouth beach, see page 16 for more;

BELOW: Pantone’s Colour of the Year, head to page 14 for shopping inspo

HARRIET NOBLE

© FRAN MCELHONE

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Nature ROOTING FOR YOU

A local historic estate with a unique micro climate has recently been awarded for bringing historic plants back to life. Canonteign Falls, approximately 30 minutes south of Exeter, has been granted National Plant Collection status by Plant Heritage, for restoring two Victorian fern collections – Dryopteris and Polystichum

Successful ongoing horticultural conservation work means that the historic plant collections now have a secure future ahead and will remain in cultivation for future generations to enjoy.

For more: www.canonteignfalls.co.uk

Charity IT’S A RUNDERFUL LIFE

From toddlers to grandparents, hundreds of runners, some fantastic festive pooches and even Exeter City first team player Jay Stansfield and assistant manager Kevin Nicholson, braved the cold to take part in the Exeter Santa run on 4 December.

Organised by Exeter City Community Trust, the partner charity of Exeter City Football Club, the seasonal spectacular sees a sea of Santas take over the High Street.

“It was brilliant to see hundreds of Santas dashing down the High Street, thanks to everyone who took part and made it such an amazing community event,” says Jamie Vittles, chief executive of Exeter City Community Trust.

For more: www.exetercct.org

GARY CALDWELL EXETER CITY FC

It’s been quite the year for this very special supporter-owned football club. After a decade of striving, the club was promoted to League One in May. Celebrations followed, including a bus parade, which saw thousands lining the High Street, and a civic welcome at the historic Guildhall.

Of course, this was all before my time, with the side being led to promotion and a good start to life in League One by then manager Matt Taylor, who moved onto Championship side Rotherham in October.

It’s rare for football clubs to keep managers for long periods, and Exeter is one of those rarities, with just two bosses over the last 16 years; the fact the club gives their managers time to get results was just one of the many things which appealed to me when I took the job.

Coming from Scotland, I didn’t know much about the area until I applied for the position. I’ve been getting out and about as much as I can and I’m living right in the city centre, so when I get some spare time, I’ve been testing out some of the city centre bars and restaurants; The Botanist and Lloyds Lounge have been checked out and I can report they’re all great, so far!

I even managed a dip in the sea at Exmouth, it was the end of October, but felt positively balmy compared to the Scotland climes. Talking of climate, I think I should apologise to you all, as I seem to have brought the rain with me, St Swithin has nothing on me for causing 40 days and nights of rain!

And as for the football, well, there’s nothing like joining a club days before the much-anticipated Derby match against Plymouth. This was rapidly followed by games against the six biggest teams in the league…the results have been mixed and we’re a work in progress, but we’re holding our league position and St James Park has been absolutely rocking – so come and join us!

For more: www.exetercityfc.co.uk

Fern collections at Canonteign Falls

The manager of Exeter City Football Club has all the latest news from the club

© EMMA SOLLEY PHOTOGRAPHY ©

Festive family fun run

A

OPINION JP HEDGE

Good news day

It’s official. Exeter’s city centre is the “greenest” in Britain – JP is delighted

hat a morning. hat a day. I was sitting in my shed when it happened, deep in my emails, when I came across a oogle alert. e monitor news to see what the city is talking about and why. It is generally a thankless task.

alf of the alerts I get sent actually pick up news from Exeter in merica.

nd then locally, the type of news is often predictable. ou can generally tell the filter of the writer and organisation before looking at the first words.

nd there it was. rare gem. completely unsolicited, unpredicted joyful news cycle. nd it was already international.

It read ccording to a new in-depth survey conducted by the niversity of She eld, Exeter s city centre is the greenest in ritain. Sound the alert. onk the horn. Someone

Wsaid something nice about this fine city and meant it. She eld niversity bo ns, we are arranging a wicker statue.

This was the first study to define and rank urban centres based on multiple green attributes. asically they put green cities in order and we came top. nd we didn t even know we were playing.

The senior team at Exeter City Council got pretty excited in a local government kind of way. I m talking about at least two text messages.

In all seriousness, this was a really good thing for Exeter. There is a great value in the new study itself, because it puts a value on the positive impact of having green spaces in your city.

It was some years ago now that Exeter s green spaces were put into the care of evon ildlife Trust to protect them forever.

Councils have allocated space for homes to be built, and the city voted that it would rather keep the large green areas it has.

That s all well and good, but the di culty is that Exeter s reen spaces aren t that well

there it was…a completely unsolicited, unpredicted joyful news cycle”

known by the population at large.

e have some 3 ,500 people that commute into the city every day and then head back again.

nd even if you are local, travelling along Exeter s two main oman roads slower than a snail on strike, you could be forgiven for not fully seeing the city s best bits.

dog or a run gets you out to some of them.

ut they are firmly in best kept secret territory for many.

I live in ewcourt and I have to admit, it wasn t until lockdown that I fully understood the nature of udwell alley Park. I made a point of getting lost, getting off my usual route, and going down roads I would have not normally passed. It was a game changer.

My particular favourite discovery are the routes around Countess ear. ow my family head down there often and I make a connection. I had no clue before.

This spring as people are making their health and wellbeing promises, there is an easy one to keep. hy not take some time and get lost in a green space in this city

It s your city, and your space, and once you connect, you won t look back. n

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

“And

THE ARTS

SNAPSHOTS OF EXETER’S CULTURAL LIFE

I HEAR THE S MS...

oin ula Shaker as they rock out their catchy psychedelic riffs including memorable hits Govinda, Hush, Shower Your Love, Tattva, Start All Over, and so many more.

long with the classics, expect to hear 1st Congregational Church of Eternal Love & Free Hugs – their epic double album from 2022, bristling with energy, vitality and most importantly, killer tunes, proving that ula Shaker has undoubtedly returned –rebooted, re-energised and ready to. et your joss sticks at the ready.

Kula Shaker are playing on 30 January at Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; www.exeterphoenix.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

30 December onwards

THEATRE

Until 7 January

ROBIN HOOD

Exeter Northcott and Le Navet Bete are joining forces to bring you all the festive fun of panto, with Le Navet Bete’s trademark madcap comedy, stunning sets and costumes, music and dance – fab family outing.

Exeter Northcott, Stocker Road; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

18 – 21 January

FRANKENSTEIN

Nick Dear’s adaptation of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein retells the wellknown story from the point of view of the creature, created by Victor Frankenstein, a troubled scientist. His dark ambitions drive him to play with life itself and he succeeds in bringing the creature to life.

Exeter Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

25 – 28 January

BANDSTAND

Exeter University Footlights presents a story about a group of veterans returning home to the United States after World War II; we see them struggle to fit into their old lives while dealing with the

lingering effects of the war.

Exeter Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

30 January – 1 February

MIND MANGLER: MEMBER OF THE TRAGIC CIRCLE

From the original cast of the multi-award-winning sold-out smash hit The Play That Goes Wrong and the BBC TV series

The Goes Wrong Show, Henry Lewis and Jonathan Sayer star in this hilarious new comedy that enjoyed a sold-out run at the Edinburgh Festival, and was called laugh filled, mindbending silliness”.

Exeter Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

7 February WILD ONION

Step into the circle and peel back the layers of this riotous, narrative cabaret. Blending theatre, dance, circus, and over 100 delightfully destroyed onions, this production brings three queer best friends together to explore and grow their chosen family.

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

MUSIC

6 January

TWELFTH NIGHT: A MUSICAL JOURNEY BY CANDLELIGHT

On the last day of Christmas, pianist Alex Wilson will be performing the songs and folk traditions of Europe at Christmastime. Also being performed is new music by Sadie Harrison based on seasonal melodies from Ukraine, and traditional French carols.

St Nicholas Priory, The Mint, Exeter; www.nicholaspriory.com

10 January

THE 1975

Formed in Manchester in 2002, The 1975 have established themselves as one of the defining bands of their generation with their distinctive, aesthetic, ardent fanbase and unique sonic approach. The band’s previous album, 2020’s Notes

On A Conditional Form, became their fourth consecutive No. 1 album in the UK.

Exeter Westpoint, Clyst St Mary, Exeter; www.westpointexeter.co.uk

20 January THE BEAT FT RANKING JNR

One of the key bands of the UK ska revival of the late ’70s and early ’80s, The Beat achieved a nearperfect balance of pop melodies and taut rhythms that made them stars in Britain and won them a worldwide following.

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

27 January

MARTIN KEMP

Martin Kemp’s ‘Back to the 80s’ DJ set is the hottest and most in demand 80s night in the UK, currently selling out every venue the event goes to in record time. The 80s icon and UK national treasure will be taking to the decks in Exeter and spinning all the best hits from the 80s.

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

2 February

LEWIS CAPALDI

The Scottish singer, who is best known for hits Bruises, Someone You Loved, Hold Me While You Wait, and Before You Go, released his debut album Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent in May 2019.

Exeter Westpoint, Clyst St Mary, Exeter; www.westpointexeter.co.uk

Henry Lewis of Mind Mangler is performing at Exeter Northoctt

© ANNA GIBBS

2 February

FAIRPORT CONVENTION

Fairport Convention have been entertaining music lovers since 1967 with their ritish folk-rock sounds.

The line-up features founding member Simon Nicol on guitar and vocals, Dave Pegg on bass guitar, Ric Sanders on violin, Chris Leslie on fiddle, mandolin and vocals, and former member Dave Mattacks on Drums.

Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; www.exetercornexchange.co.uk

COMEDY

22 January

JEN BRISTER

Described as ‘furiously funny’, if Jen Brister has learned anything in the past 18 months, it’s that she’s no good in a crisis. (Unless you count getting into the foetal position in under 30 seconds.)

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

27 January

EXETER COMEDY CLUB

Every show features four top performers, everyone gets a seat at a table and the bar serves throughout with extra cheesy pizzas which are available during the intervals.

Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; www.exetercornexchange.co.uk

5 February

GLENN MOORE

As seen on Mock The Week, expect a comedy masterclass and a highenergy barrage of the most jokes you ve ever heard humanely fit into one stand-up show.

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

ART

Until 8 October

A PICTURE OF HEALTH: EXETER’S MEDICAL HISTORY

From body snatching surgeons, to pioneering use of inoculation and medical statistics, and a revolutionary hip replacement, this exhibition engages audiences of all ages with a lesser known aspect of Exeter’s rich history, and highlights parallels which have particular contemporary relevance in light of the pandemic.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; www.rammuseum.org.uk

Until 8 October

THE SILVER WAVE

Inspired by objects from the Arctic region in RAMM’s collection, Michelle Williams Gamaker tells the story of Ada Blackjack, an Iñupiat woman from Nome, Alaska, who became the sole survivor of a doomed expedition to Russia’s Wrangel Island, in the Arctic Ocean, between the Chukchi Sea and East Siberian Sea.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; www.rammuseum.org.uk

21 January MAKING IT

Showcasing 16 early career makers who are breathing new life into craft and making, combining traditional craft practices with modern innovation, and championing sustainability. Expect everything from atpack rubber jewellery and outdoor installations made from salvaged geotextiles, to foam glass tactile art objects.

MAKE Southwest, Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey, Devon; www.crafts.org.uk

1 – 27 February

GAIA

Following artist Luke Jerram’s hugely successful Museum of the Moon installation at Exeter Cathedral, the artist’s next installation, Gaia comes to Exeter. Measuring seven metres in diameter, the piece features NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface.The artwork provides the opportunity to see our planet on this scale, oating in three-dimensions. A specially made surround sound composition by BAFTA award winning Composer Dan Jones is played alongside the sculpture. Exeter Cathedral, Cathedral Green, Exeter; www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk

COMING VERY SOON!

30 March 2023

EXETER LIVING AWARDS

The biggest business event of the city returns this spring when we’ll be celebrating the brilliant organisations of Exeter once more. Nominations are now open. For all the information head to page 46. www.exeterlivingawards.co.uk

ABOVE: Ranking JNR is performing at Exeter Phoenix; BELOW: Stephen Chadwick piece, exhibiting at the Making It exhibition

VIVID MAGENTA

This vivid shade is described as being both powerful and empowering – a new animated red hue that revels in joy, encouraging experimentation and selfexpression without restraint. To help you create the look, here are some pieces from local boutiques...

Annie Sloane capri pink wall paint chalk paint; local stockists include Odds & Suds, 20 North Street, Ashburton; www.oddsandsudsashburton.co.uk

SHOPPING LIST

1. Espresso glazed cup, £9.95, Hyde & Seek, 1 Paul Street, Exeter; www.hydeseek.co.uk 2. Red swirl high wine glass, set of two, £25, Bøde Living, Alexandria Road, Sidmouth; www.bode-living.com 3. Raspberry coned lampshade, £70-£100, Love Frankie, 34 High Street, Totnes; www.lovefrankie.com 4. Knitting kit: bobble bomber, £65-£70, Lauren Aston Designs; www.laurenastondesigns.com 5. Craspedia stem, £9, Toot Garook, 19 Queen Street, Exeter; www.tootgarook.co.uk 6. Stone washed cotton throw, £75, Holly Keeling Interiors, 6 High Street, Totnes; www.hollykeelinginteriors.co.uk 7. Wine lambswool scarf, £25.95, Brit Locker, Kings Wharf, Cellar 1, The Quay, Exeter; www.britlocker.com 8. Bespoke handmade earrings, £20, Leaf Street, Magdalen Road, Exeter; www.leafstreet.co.uk 9. Coffee for one cafetière, £36, Distinctly Living, 35 Lower Street, Dartmouth; www.distinctlyliving.co.uk 10. Savannah accent chair, £659, CASA, The Old Gaol, Strand, Topsham; www.casa-furniture.co.uk 11. Ruby and diamond ring, £3,565, Polka Dot Gallery, 12 Martins Lane, Exeter; www.polkadotgallery.com

TAKE THE PLUNGE

Meet RV.ONE. This Exmouth bunch proudly strive for good mental health through fitness, creativity, a bit of adventure

Photos by Fran McElhone/ Dotty Creative

“We dip weekly in the sea and put the world to rights”

RV.ONE (named after the french word Rendezvous, to meet) started out as a safe space for men to exercise out in the open and talk about their mental health. Such is the demand for this kind of community though that soon women wanted in on the action and RV.ONE grew and grew. The sessions now include everything from fitness classes at arren iew playing fields to local walks and epic treks across Dartmoor, plus open water swimming – they even do the Three Peaks challenge every year. Its founder, Thomas Merriman, a Royal Marine, wanted to create a welcoming community where people could meet like-minded individuals, enjoy a challenge or two, and feel that most sacred of things – a sense of belonging. All the classes that he runs are free, (though they do accept donations, RV.ONE relies entirely on them), and unique (they never repeat the same session) and the group tend to stay behind at the end of each class to talk about any issues that are affecting people.

The organisation also thrives on making the most of the amazing landscape we have on our doorstep.

e organise weekly walks along the coastline, artmoor and oodbury Common, says Thomas.

e dip weekly in the sea and put the world to rights. e run an annual colour run at the one ild festival at Powderham Castle. e run an annual fitness competition on Exmouth each and we recently ran a river trek in and along the River Dart supporting a former Royal Marine from Devon who will be taking part in the Summit to Sea world- first expedition that will take place next May in the ma on. This will be helping scientific exploration and the comparisons of mental health between the western societies and local tribes.

IT ALL BEGAN...

“A friend of mine once asked me for help regarding his own mental health, says Thomas.

“He knew that I had received help previously and I gave him some advice, tips, and useful contacts, I also spoke to these contacts to inform them of our conversation and to make sure that they contact him if he doesn’t do so himself. Months went past and he was in the system, I was checking in with him regularly and I presumed all was well. For whatever reason he missed an appointment and the following day he took his own life.

“I felt guilty and felt that I could have done more to prevent this situation. I didn’t want this to ever happen again, so I decided to help an established military mental health charity. One day, whilst working for this charity, I received a message from a firearms o cer in Plymouth, he was asking for help. I asked the charity I was working with if we could help him but since he wasn’t military, they said no. I had visions of a repeat incident occurring that had happened previously. I completely understand their decision to say no, I just didn’t agree with it and I m glad now that I didn t. I decided to find some help from another charity called Rock2Recovery and I continued to talk to him on a regular basis. The following week we met up for a coffee and he broke down in tears of joy, hugged me and told me that I’d saved his life and he was forever grateful. I was overwhelmed with the feeling of reward, pride, success and god knows whatever else, but it felt amazing. I had no idea how close to taking his life he was, I just acted on instinct, I had no ualifications in mental health or psychology, I just listened to a voice of a person that I did not know. I knew from that day on that this was what I was meant to do in life.

ATTENDEES

lot of the people who come to . E are those who have suffered with injuries and Thomas’s own job working in the Royal Marines as a physical training instructor means he has the perfect skillset to manage this.

“I am responsible for training recruits and preparing them physically and mentally for what’s to come. I’m also responsible for maintaining

ABOVE: RV.ONE founder Thomas Merriman; LEFT: RV.One’s Commando Beach Assault, a yearly event hosted on Exmouth Beach

a level of fitness within the trained ranks. I have also ualified as a rehabilitation instructor, this means that I rehabilitate anyone who develops an injury.

While Thomas and the leaders have military backgrounds, it is not run as a military organisation and they’re keen to stress people don’t need any military background to join in.

“Yes, we the directors, are serving or former Marines and we install a level of self-discipline, courage, teamwork, loyalty, respect, humility and honesty which often gets portrayed as being military standards, but I believe that this is stoic and just being a good human, not military, he says.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The classes do not occur in isolation; in fact, part of the success of the organisation is its ongoing support to its members.

“We communicate through the week [via WhatsApp] so by the time we get to the class, we already know what people have been going through. The main topics tend to be separation, social anxiety, depression, lack of confidence and loneliness.

“Some people have messaged me about their injuries begging for confidentiality, which is always maintained, but then within a few sessions they find themselves talking to strangers about their injuries, this always makes me smile.

This group was set back in 20 8, pre Covid. Has the mental health landscape got visibly worse?

“It’s easy to blame poor mental health on someone or something and I ve defiantly been guilty of this in the past. Covid was a nightmare for our community, but we were still allowed to exercise or leave our homes for an hour a day. We try and focus on changing how we think which will then change how we behave, we always look for the positives in everything. An example of this would be for myself, I’d been locked down for pretty much the whole of 2020, I love exercising and being outdoors and I was dreading it, but I managed to spend every day with my family. I started to exercise in the garden and in the living room and then my family started to get involved as well. This gave us all something to get up for in the morning, it gave us purpose.

There is clearly a demand for their organisation though, hence it mushrooming like it has.

“One of my biggest faults is I can’t say no. We set up as a men’s health organisation and then the ladies in the community were asking if they could do a Three Peaks challenge as well, so we said yes.

Then there was an incident involving poor mental health in the local community college, so then we started helping children as well. We will help whoever we can. We do encourage our classes to be of the same sex though as we find that this promotes conversations.

A POSITIVE IMPACT

“Some of the messages that I have received have literally brought me to tears, says Thomas.

“We have lots of success stories, people that we help tend to just be a lot happier. I think the biggest benefit for me is that once we have helped someone with their mental health, they stick around to help others. Just last night, Wales Vs England, mid game, a middleaged man was asking for help on our group chat as he was struggling with separation. Within seconds there must have been 10+ men, all watching the football who offered their time and kind words of support to help this man. Most of these men were where he was not that long ago and they are now coaching other men through the same problems. It s fascinating to see and it costs nothing.

When asked about his proudest moments with the group, Thomas has a long list: the actions that he took with the firearms o cer for one, the many people he has met and the memories he’s made, feeling privileged to be supported by the directors and helpers on the team – Lee Drinkwater, Luke Kelsall and Luke Wileman, and Becky Mathews.

Perhaps one memory that stands out the most for Thomas is the Three Peaks incident last year. “Marnie Pyne attended the ladies Three Peaks last year. When she was a teenager she was involved in a road tra c accident where everyone else in the car died. Marnie suffered multiple fractures and is extremely lucky to be with us today. She is now the head mistress of Exeter Road Primary School and a mother of two children. When she was on the peaks she sustained a soft tissue injury whilst descending Ben Nevis, we applied first aid and did everything that we could to prevent secondary injury. Whilst ascending Scafel Pyke it was apparent that she was slowing the team down. I had to make the decision to pull her off the mountain or sacrifice the 2 hr achievement. Marnie was upset and I could see how much this meant to her, I didn’t want her to be the only lady to return to Exmouth without a medal so I decided to split the team, Luke Kelsall took the girls and Lee Drinkwater and I stayed with Marnie. The result was everyone got the challenge done and returned to Exmouth safely. This still makes me burst with pride every time I re-live it. n

For more: www.rvone.co.uk

“Once we have helped someone with their mental health, they stick around to others”help

RV.ONE supports community mental health through fitness sessions

FOOD & DRINK

NIBBLES FROM EXETER’S FOOD SCENE

HIGH GRANGE

25 January, £55 igh range, near xminster, is a rural foodie paradise, offering communal feast nights over fire. This urns ight, owner and chef Luke Mackay, together with his wife Sara and their lovely team, will be hosting a sumptuousScottish evening with whisky, haggis, neeps and tatties of course, but also a full feast of the best Scottish cuisine on offer – last year they served whisky macs with haggis bon bons, cured seabass, wild mushroom and tru e tartlet, grilled Scottish langoustines and oak-smoked venison loin, finished off with the oh-so-tasty Scottish dessert, Cranachan. agpiper ean will be making an appearance too For more: www.highgrangedevon.com

THE PIG-AT COMBE

24 January: The Perfect Kitchen Garden, £175 (and also 7 March: Fermenting the Garden, £195) Unearth your passion for plot-to-plate cooking right in the heart of the kitchen gardens at The Pig-at Combe, near Honiton. The rural restaurant and hotel has teamed up with food writer, grower, and cook Mark Diacono to host new adventurous ‘grow your own’ workshops, perfect for aspiring gardeners. These sessions will see you experimenting with forgotten foods and exploring new ways to grow and prepare food, alongside Mark and The Pig’s head kitchen gardener, and self-confessed veg nerd, Ollie Hutson, who’ll be sharing their knowledge on sowing, growing and cooking. For more: www.thepighotel.com

© JAKE EASTHAM

DINE THE WINTER WONDERLAND WAY

Enjoy this heartwarming, belly-filling delicious recipe from THE PIG-at Combe

Robin Hutson started his career with Claridge’s Hotel as a waiter before going onto co-found the Hotel du Vin chain in 1994. Since 2011, Robin has built up another collection of hotels, called THE PIG with eight locations including THE PIG-at Combe, near Honiton. Here is one of the winter warmer recipes from his new book The Pig: 500 Miles of Food, Friends and Local Legends: 2 which, with the help of interviews, notes, and recipes, celebrates the artisans, growers, farmers, foragers and fishermen who make each PI hotel special.

SPICY GARDEN ROOT PIE

Robin says, “It probably hasn’t escaped your notice that we love a good pie at The Pig. But this one is slightly different from the meaty ones we usually serve – it’s packed with veg from the kitchen garden and is light and wholesome. It can be made without dairy, so it’s suitable for everyone. The vegetable filling can be adapted to what’s in season and this mix, with the celeriac setting off the spinach and chard, is a firm favourite. Don’t hold back on the spices – they’re what help to make it so tasty. This one’s even been known to convert the odd meathead!”

You’ll need a 22cm x 26cm pie dish or 6 individual 16cm pie dishes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons rapeseed oil

1 large white onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, crushed

1 celeriac, peeled and diced (you want to end up with 00g esh

3 large carrots, diced

4 medium sticks celery, diced

Serves 4–6

1 tablespoon mild curry powder

½ teaspoon turmeric

½ teaspoon chilli powder

Salt and pepper

1 x 400g tin chopped tomatoes

120g fresh spinach

120g chard 320g puff pastry shop-bought is fine

1 large egg yolk

Method

1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan and sweat the onion and garlic without colouring. Once it’s fully softened, add the celeriac, carrot and celery.

2. Cook until everything has softened then add your spices and salt and pepper and cook for a few minutes more. Add the tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes (you may need to add a splash of water here .

3. Taste the mix and, if you’re happy with the seasoning, add your spinach and chard – this will take just a minute to cook, so take care not to overdo it. Remove from the heat and allow to cool.

4. Heat your oven to 200ºC, 180ºC fan 00 , gas mark . nce the mix has cooled, fill your pie dish or dishes if you re using individual ones .

5. oll out the pastry to fit your dish or dishes . rush the inside edge of your dish es and eggwash, then place the pastry on top, pinching it around the edge to seal.

6. Using a pastry brush, egg-wash the lid well – this will give the pastry a nice glaze when it’s cooked. Poke a hole in the middle to allow the steam to escape.

7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

The Pig: 500 Miles of Food, Friends and Local Legends: 2 (RRP £30) is available to order at local indie bookshops and also via THE PIG website www.thepighotel.com

SEEN!

ACROSS EXETER, ONE SHINDIG AT A TIME

Table talk

EXETER LIVING WINTER

RECEPTION

Friends and colleagues gathered recently at The Botanist in the Guildhall for the Exeter Living Winter Reception. Guests enjoyed drinks and nibbles at the festive bar, and around the roaring fires out on the terrace. reg Ingham, chief executive of MediaClash, this maga ine s publisher, gave a speech to thank everyone for their support this year and to reveal details on next year s events.

www.mediaclash.co.uk

Photos by Nick Matthews

Nikki FaircloughBob Irwin

Greg Ingham and Jay Page

Harriet Noble and Simon Scott-Nelson

James Arnold

Jed Hall

Our hosts, The Botanist team: Jay Page, Beth Fortune, and Ollie Holman

Ellie Burgin, Anna Fitzgerald, Angela Sims, and Andy Sims

Festive drinks at The Botanist bar Katie Mortimer

James Armstrong and Andrew Lovett

Charlie Tilt, Jonny Golder, and John Harvey

Elizabeth Score and Sophia Tapper

Glenn Redler

Yvan Williams

EXETER CARNIVAL RETURNS!

On 26 November Exeter witnessed the triumphant comeback of Exeter Carnival which was resurrected after a 24-year hiatus. Despite heavy rain, Exeter residents came out in force to watch the brightly-coloured acts as they moved through the city.

The revival of the carnival was organised by InExeter, the Business Improvement District for Exeter, and saw over 40 entries taking part which included over 600 people from Exeter, Devon and beyond. The carnival was also the last stop

for the Jubilation Cart which was built for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant parade in London this summer.

The Best Overall Float Winner was Harlequin Carnival Club with their entry Home on the Range (Cowboy yer really up the creek). It was a successful return for Harlequin Carnival Club who were at the very first Exeter Carnival in 1977 and had not been in Exeter for over 40 years where they were historically placed second.

© BART SADECKY

© BART SADECKY

© STEPH MACIUK

© STEPH MACIUK

© STEPH MACIUK

© STEPH MACIUK

© STEPH MACIUK

© STEPH MACIUK

© STEPH MACIUK

“We were overwhelmed by the reaction of Exeter to the return of the Carnival,” says Ann Hunter, BID Manager.

“Thank you toeach and every person who joined us despite the weather to celebrate the return of Exeter Carnival – what a brilliant community and city this is. We also could not have put this event on without the amazing support we have had from the carnival community, local organisations and volunteer marshals, who took part, so thank you Exeter. Bring on 2023.”

Details of Exeter Carnival’s future plans will be released to the public in early 2023; www.exetercarnival.co.uk

EXETER CATHEDRAL CHRISTMAS TAVERN

Crowds descended on the Exeter Cathedral Christmas Tavern on Cathedral Green which saw the festive marquee decked out as a Christmas Alpine Ski Lodge. This year the bar was run by Exeter Bar co, a Crossed Anchors Brewing company, and served a wide selection of local drinks including Bar Buoys cocktails and Two Drifters Distillery, as well as some big hitting German brands. www.crossedanchors.co.uk

Photos by Leigh Farmer Photography

EXE-CEPTIONAL EVENING

Six Degrees, a female community based in Exeter, hosted their final inspirational evening of the year at EXE Restaurant with amazing guest speaker Harriet de Winton. Over 50 women gathered to hear from the entrepreneur and author as well as enjoy festive drinks. For more on Six Degrees, turn to page 39. www.sixdegrees-group.com

Steph Stevens and Nhair Nunez

Vanessa Basford and Kathryn Britton

Erin Davey-Jepson, Millie Renaud and Carly Renaud

Sarah Jepson and Harriet de Winton

Louise Gregson-Williams, Kate Harper and Claire Vis-Bulmer

Photos by Rosie Parsons Photography

Faye Whitley, Megan McGregor-Shenton and Judy Caley

Alison Jobson, Sally Jackson, Emily Mcguirk and Katie Brook

Becky Craven, Rhi Bates and Caroline Thompson

CLASS OF ‘22

Exeter welcomed a fresh new batch of exciting businesses in 2022. Here, we chat to six of them...

By Paul Marland and Harriet Noble

Quayside, the new gin distillery

© DIRTY MARTINI

It’s the time of year to press the refresh button on your life and your business. If you started a new venture in 2022, congratulations – but you don’t need us to point out that you’ve picked a challenging environment in which to do so. Here, at the tail end of the year, is the perfect time to take stock of what you’ve done so far, and what you plan going forward. We caught up with six Exeter businesses that got going, or substantially reinvented themselves, over the past 2 months, to find out how it s gone

DISTILLERY

What is it? A cool destination venue that can be whatever you want it to be. Engagement party? They’ve got you covered. Makeshift yoga studio? They’re here to help.

Where? Exeter Quayside, 60a Haven Road, Exeter. Tell us more: “Whether it’s a special occasion, business meeting, party or corporate event, we can handle it,” says owner George Nightingale. “Plus, we have a one-of-a-kind distillery on-site, offering tastings, gin-making sessions and distillery tours, for those who love their spirits. We can distil pretty much anything, giving our guests the opportunity to run wild.”

What makes you special? “The equipment we use, and the warmth and atmosphere we create, make for an unrivalled experience – and being on the water’s edge is just the cherry on top. Our laboratory-style distillery is smack bang in the middle of the venue and a real head-turner, so you can enjoy our latest drink while watching new ones

being produced right behind the window.”

Any best sellers? ur experimental gin avours, from pickled onion Monster Munch gin to distilled oysters – much nicer than it sounds!”

How’s the menu? “Evolving on a weekly basis, so there’s never just one new thing to try.”

What’s it like being down on the Quay? “There’s a real sense of community; in fact, we’ll be launching collaborations and events with our neighbours soon.”

Any highlights from your first year? “Just hosting so many functions, parties and engagements, which has helped us establish ourselves. It’s been a pleasure.”

And the challenges? “There’ve been a few: the cost-of-living crisis, an extremely hot summer, and generally finding our feet. Plus, hospitality is about to face its most di cult time. ur ability to adapt quickly stands us in good stead, however; while customer numbers will doubtless fall, we’ll continue to be here, ready to greet any question with a resounding yes.”

What does 2023 look like for you? “We’ll soon be launching seven core products – and no, I don’t mean more gin! That craze is coming to a close, so we want to wow Devon with something new www.quaysidedistillery.co.uk

ABOVE: Quayside bar and restaurant area ; INSET: Tom Cook, head distiller at Quayside

“Our experimental gin flavours include pickled onion Monster Munch”

©

DIRTY MARTINI

© DIRTY MARTINI

The Café THE CHEEKY VEGAN

Launched May 2022

What is it? plant-based eatery and coffee shop, designed to normalise vegan food – and show that going vegan can be delicious and accessible.

Where? Cathedral ard, Exeter.

Tell us more: e serve traditional comfort food, but in a veganised way, to show that delicious meals can be cruelty free, says owner Emma ates. The big cheeky burger – a be f burger with lettuce, fried onion, gherkin, cheese and our own cheeky sauce – is a definite favourite, as are our thick pancake stacks. ut I d say the fillet-no-fish burger is the hidden star some people hesitate to order it, but always finish it wishing they d tried it before

What might catch our eye? If it isn t the massive pink neon light logo on our wall, it ll definitely be our jolly customer service.

What’s it like being on Cathedral Green? It has ama ing footfall, which really helps create the impact we re aiming for, and we ve a beautiful view of the Cathedral. e ve enjoyed being right next to the Christmas Market too.

Any highlights from your first year? The Saturday we opened was actually Pride weekend, and it was great to see the bustle this brought to the town.

And any challenges? f course – this is my first business, after all. efore we d even opened, getting the space right and creating the image I d envisioned was a challenge, and getting to know the busy periods and the uiets ones is interesting too.

What does 2023 look like for you? eganuary adds to the excitement of bringing out new specials, and at some point I plan to start catering for events too. ut really, I m just looking forward to carrying on as I am and seeing where the road takes me.

www.thecheekyveganexeter.com

ABOVE: Emma Bates, The Cheeky Vegan owner; BELOW: Interiors at The Cheeky Vegan

© TYLER COOPER PHOTOGRAPHY

The Restaurant WABI SABI

Launched March 2022

What is it? “A pan Asian food establishment, providing great food, great tunes, great vibes,” says owner Jonathan Bailey. Where? Exeter Quayside, 38a Commercial Road, Exeter Tell us more: “We’re all about the quality of our food, so we ferment our own kimchi and spend months developing the broth alone for our ramen. The space is cool, with giant cherry blossoms, Japanese umbrellas and oral walls, and a new street food pop-up on the terrace, with a slightly different menu including new burrito-style sian wraps and an Asian slaw. In fact, we’re constantly changing things up, from adding breakfast for the new year to giving our new GM, Karen Webb, the chance to really drive the business.”

How’s the menu? mongst our best-sellers are the hoisin duck bao and some fantastic ramen and teriyaki dishes. I think the vegan crispy oyster mushrooms are underrated, though. When people try them, they’re like...wow.”

What’s it like being on down on the Quay? “It’s a great spot, lovely in the summer, and full of super-friendly local businesses and people. Any highlights from your first year? “Just enjoying the locals, I’d say; summer was bliss.”

And the challenges? “The wind and rain has a nasty habit of putting people off traveling down to the uay. e re happy to move with the times, though, so are adding new offers like discount nights and a bottomless brunch.”

What does 2023 look like for you? “The street food terrace will evolve, with log burners, chilled music and hot cocktails over winter, and in summer a yakitori grill, fun vibes and lounge seating. Our new breakfast menu is like no other too, ranging from a ‘Wabi take’ on traditional English fare to more specialist dishes like Filipino morning glory soup or okonomiyaki pancakes.”

www.wabisabibay.co.uk

ALLFROMWABISABI: TOP: Bowls of Asian food;

Enjoying cocktails;

Floral décor at Wabi Sabi

ALL IMAGES ON THIS PAGE

© SHORBYROB

The Showroom

HYDROLIFE

Launched August 2022

What is it? “We’re a forward-thinking retail business, focussing on wellness and providing an outstanding customer experience,” says Amy Helm. “The stunning new showroom in Topsham is our fifth nationwide, and sells Jacuzzi hot tubs and swim spas. We only sell Jacuzzis: they’re the original, and we believe the best.”

Where? Darts Business Park, Topsham Road, near Topsham. Tell us more: “The new showroom combines high-end style with garden design, and includes a private mezzanine area for customers to try the hot tubs; in fact, we have two swim spas and seven hot tubs across two oors. ut perhaps my favourite feature is the industrial lighting around the reception desk.” What’s it like down at Darts Farm? “Being on the outskirts of the city, but in a busy location rich with likeminded businesses, is perfect for us.”

Any highlights from your first year? “We’ve had an amazing welcome, both in our new home and at the Devon County Show, which was perfect for meeting our new client base. We’re actually having an o cial opening event early in 2023, with dam Peaty, the lympic

gold medalist swimmer, showcasing our swim spas. The hot tub industry saw massive growth over the pandemic, as families stayed at home and invested in their homes and gardens. Hot tubs aren’t just for fun, but can ease aches, pains and headaches, and help with everything from sports recovery to sleepless nights; in fact, 80 per cent of our customers invest in theirs for the health benefits and wellbeing.”

What does 2023 look like for you? It ll be our first full year here, but already the installation team has been blown away by the incredible locations where they’ve installed hot tubs so far. We’re progressing with some outstanding new build homes and landscaping projects too.

www.hydrolifehottubs.co.uk

“Adam Peaty, the Olympic gold medallist swimmer, is showcasing our swim spas”

ABOVE: Hydrolife team, Paula Blake-Pead and Amy Helm; INSET: The showroom houses Jacuzzis for viewing

ave a co ee on one o e unk c aise lon ues

What is it? ot just a gallery showcasing local fine art, but also a coffee shop – oh, and the management of curated galleries at numerous businesses in Exmouth and around. eally, we re all about building a strong community through art, says owner nna it erald. Where? eacon ill, Exmouth.

Tell us more: s we re not for profit, everything we earn goes towards art projects, such as the Seafront Paint – which removes hate gra ti – and our free creative classes for children, says nna. I took over from my friend arriet ates in ctober; I d been artist-in-residence at Powderham Castle, but wanted to move my studio back to Exmouth. eing both a gallery and caf , Sea og has a really sociable vibe; it s a great place to meet other creatives – manager Ellie urgin is a photographer, for instance – and have a coffee on one of the funky chaise longues.

What might catch our eye? e have over 20 artists work, from 2 cards and 0 earrings to paintings and sculptures at around 2,500. t the moment we have a life si e felt lamb by master felter oan Prowse in the middle of the room, so it s hard not to be drawn to that. Any highlights from your first year? e can t believe how positive the reactions have been. e ve created something we love, and though people will always have different tastes when it comes to art, everyone agrees it s a welcoming environment – and very much needed in the town.

And the challenges? e ve run exhibitions and art events before –but never a coffee shop What does 2023 look like for you? e ve been holding ew to Exmouth social evenings, plus pottery, mosaic and art classes, and next year we re filling up our diary with groups and classes, workshops and art trails. Try the upcoming sculpture park at inslade Manor. nd there s a new communal art studio we mean to build too www.seadogart.com

The Gallery

SEA DOG ART GALLERY New owners October 2022

BELOW: Anna Fitzgerland and Ellie Burgin; RIGHTANDBOTTOM: Art exhibiting at Sea Dog Art Gallery

© ELLIE BURGIN

© ELLIE BURGIN

The Shop NIASKI

Opened

December 2022

What is it? Owner-designer Nia Gould has created a feline-focused store, cleverly combining cats, art and humour in a range of products from greetings cards to pet accessories. From 2015 they’ve been an online business, but the bricks-and-mortar store is brand new.

Where? 32 Fore Street, Budleigh Salterton. Tell us more: “Niaski is a place where art obsession meets cat obsession,” Nia says. “I was originally inspired by my own cat, Salvador. He’s a big black-and-white cat with a white moustache, and I created an illustration of him for a screen printing course, alongside a Frida Catlo design” – basically, Mexican painter Frida Kahlo as a… but you guessed it – “and the rest is history. Niaski is very much a one woman show: I’m the designer, illustrator, curator and owner, and my studio shop is slightly different to traditional retail, in that I use the space to work while opening my doors to the public at the same time.”

What might catch our eye? “The wall-to-wall cat art, pink paint and cat door knobs, most likely.”

Any best sellers? “In store the cards are a big hit, and it’s so lovely overhearing customers giggling at the designs and trying to guess the famous art the cats have sneaked their way into. Online, it’s the cat artist collars: they sell so well, and I get sent so many lovely pictures of cats wearing them.”

Any highlights from your first year? “It’s been better than I could have imagined; I had no idea how combining my studio space with a shop would work, but I have the space to pack up all my online orders as well as create eye catching window displays, and have storage for my stock. And the local community has been amazing – very welcoming to a shop dedicated to just cats (and maybe a dog here and there).”

And the challenges? “Juggling everything with just one of me, especially as there’s a beautiful beach just behind the shop. When the sun’s out, it’s super tempting to just ‘pop’ out for an ice cream.”

What does 2023 look like for you? “I’ll probably look to bringing in staff to help with the online demand, and free up my time to continue designing. That’s the fun bit, after all, and what working for yourself is all about.” n www.niaski.co.uk

ALSO NEW IN ’22

The past year has been awash with further launches, including these guys…

Exe Restaurant Fun, and ethical, fine dining on 14 Mary Arches Steet; www.exerestaurant.co.uk

Little Oink Restaurant/cocktail bar on 29 Magdalen Road, sister to Rusty Pig in Ottery St Mary; Instagram @littleoink

Margoux

Restaurant and wine bar, not strictly new but moved to new premises in Princesshay; www.margoux.co.uk

Sundays Indie coffee and surf shop on Exeter Quayside; Instagram @sundays_exeter

Sunset Society Café on 5 old Tiverton Road, from the people behind Pura Vida; Instagram@thesunsetsociety_

ABOVE: Owner Nia Gould; INSETANDBELOW: Niaski shop in Budleigh Salterton

By Harriet Noble

LEADING WOMEN

SARAH JEPSON is building a thriving community of women in Exeter. It’s networking, but not as you know it...

Networking around these parts has changed quite a bit in recent years. Yes, the suited and booted, businesscard-slipping clan are still doing their thing but there is a different crowd in the city. Alongside learning about anything from wealth to wellness, they are swimming in the ocean together, and chomping on melons and croissant for breakfast, al fresco no less. It all looks suspiciously like quite a lot of fun.

The group in question is Six Degrees, the Exeter-based networking group for women, owned and run by Sarah Jepson.

Sarah’s inspiration for a new kind of networking came from her dissatisfaction at the local events scene that some may relate to.

I was frustrated by the traditional networking on offer and I wondered whether other women were feeling the same,” says Sarah.

“The vision was to create a safe space for women to connect and grow, both personally and professionally.

“There were plenty of events to go to, I just never felt I really found my tribe. Whilst I did make some great contacts and friends, overall, I found the set-up of the events very corporate and I never really felt that relaxed or at ease attending them and I really, really disliked the forced selling nature at some of the events. I prefer a more relaxed, informal and authentic vibe.”

So Sarah set about creating a new type of event – the first taking place in a bar in Topsham in March 2019 for about 20 women.

There followed more smaller, intimate evening events which then

quickly built into much larger soirees with inspirational speakers, informal breakfasts and more recently, monthly lunch and learn sessions and success clinics where members can learn about a range of subjects. The workshops on offer have included talks on social media, wealth wellness, mindset, entrepreneurship, self-love and well, whatever members ask for. As an example, in November of 2022, Six Degrees board member Emily McGuirk gave a workshop on imposter syndrome, techniques for managing it, and manifesting what you want.

For Sarah, it’s as much about the atmosphere of the events as it is the business content that takes place there. aving been that person myself the nervous one, finding every excuse not to attend networking events we go to every effort to make sure our events are welcoming, from checking in on attendees prior to events, to making sure our team is there to offer a warm welcoming smile and help make introductions.

“It’s all about creating events in spaces that I feel are welcoming, fun and feel like a bit of a treat.

“After all, it is a time investment so it should provide everyone with an uplifting experience so the combination of amazing women, in a gorgeous venue and with inspirational speakers or content is our recipe for creating worthwhile and energising events. e go to every effort to make them friendly, inclusive and inspirational.”

Such is Sarah’s ambition to expand Six Degrees, that she has stepped aside from running her marketing agency, Attention Marketing (though she remains CEO, while Sarah Taylor is now MD) so she can invest all her time building the business further. She launched the Six Degrees membership in June 2022 and the events that she runs will be further ramped up – there were 55 in 2022, and there are over 100 planned for this year.

“The aim is to build a global franchise where we will have a community of thousands of women helping each other scale, grow and reach their full potential,” she says.

The feedback Sarah receives from her members is clearly the thing that propels her forward and keeps her raring to go.

“I’ve cried tears of joy witnessing the transformations and seeing the growth of our members. It gives me so much comfort and hope to see women start to believe in themselves and knowing this is just the beginning! Having the backing of so many women, when the entity is so new, has been a ‘pinch me’ moment.

“Women are just brilliant collaborators and excellent at lifting each other up and my goodness, they’re generous with their time and support; it is just mind-blowing to witness.” n www.sixdegrees-group.com

ABOVE: Six Degrees networking lunch; LEFT: Sarah Jepson with Six Degrees board member Emily McGuirk

© LEIGH FARMER PHOTOGRAPHY

© ROSIE PARSONS PHOTOGRAPHY

A TYPICAL MONTH IN SIX DEGREES LOOKS LIKE…

“A lunch and learn session where we give our community the chance to delve deeper into a topic and a larger evening event with a guest speaker. We also have our weekly sea swims in the milder months too which are well attended, and we are launching other subgroups in the New Year too. As well as in-person, we also launch at least one online Masterclass each month too and also have a very comprehensive members area on the website too where members can host their profile and interact with other members.”

aim is to build a global franchise”

“The

Sarah at a Six Degrees networking event at Darts Farm

It’s the city’s business

EXETERWORKS

PARK LIFE

Exeter Science Park has recently announced a string of new appointments and promotions across a number of areas of the organisation.

Matt Roach has joined Exeter Science Park as head of operations. Chartered accountant, Matt, who was formerly managing director of Exeter Airport for nine years, will lead on the operational aspects of Exeter Science Park and will work collaboratively to develop and implement the organisation’s strategy for growth.

Matt will also be working with the client services team, to further develop the food and drink and community services offer at the park, and in particular with David Morgan, a familiar face to Exeter Science Park visitors, who has been promoted to client services team leader. David will be joined by Richard Northcott who has been appointed to the position of front of house assistant.

Anne Beadon has joined the team in a maternity

cover role as executive assistant to the chief executive.

The Science Park, which is located just off junction 29 of the M5, has also increased its room hire offer and has recently expanded its hot-desking space.

For more: www.exetersciencepark.co.uk

HOWDY PARTNER

Exeter Chamber has recently announced its latest partnership with the city’s business improvement district (BID), InExeter, to deliver a series of collaborative networking events in the city in 2023.

InExeter’s sponsorship of the Chamber’s Coffee in the City events will see members of the business community connect with complimentary coffee at popular hospitality venues – the first

Coffee in the City with InExeter will take place at Luciano’s in Princesshay on 11 January 2023 from 8.30-9.30am.

Coffee in the City is open to any business; it is a chance to stop off and enjoy a coffee and chat with other businesses doing the same thing before they start their working day.

For more: www.exeterchamber.co.uk

BUSINESS DIARIES MATTER

17 JANUARY JELLY SOUTH WEST 10am-3pm, The Forge, Winslade Manor, Clyst St Mary

Jelly South West provide free not for profit co-working events in the South West where freelancers, start ups, home workers and small business owners bring their laptop, and work, chat and collaborate with other small business owners. www.jellysouthwest.org

18 JANUARY BUSINESS BREAKFAST MEETING 9am-10.30am, Venaspace, The Mount, Exeter

Along with hot drinks and breakfast, there’ll be the chance to present your business and services and make valuable contacts. www.eventbrite.co.uk

2 FEBRUARY NEXT STEPS TO NET ZERO

8.30-11am, Barnfield Theatre, £15-£30

EXIST (Exeter Initiative for Science & Technology) is hosting their quarterly event, which will explore innovative carbon reduction solutions and applications, aimed to help your business achieve its Net Zero goals. www.exeterchamber.co.uk

Exeter Science Park team: Richard Northcott, Matt Roach, Anne Beadon and David Morgan

Cheers! Exeter Chamber’s Richard Marsh and InExeter’s Ann Hunter

JOINING FORCES

Devon-based specialist joinery and carpentry company Wistman’s Ltd has recently announced that Julia Kendell, best known for her TV appearances on BBC’s DIY SOS since 2008, has teamed up with them as their specialist design consultant. Julia is well-known for her Grand Designs award-winning property design and working alongside DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles. www.wistmansgroup.co.uk

DUE SOUTH

The Family Law Company is celebrating success at the national Family Law Awards 2022.

The firm, which has o ces in Exeter, Plymouth and Cornwall, brought home the Family Law Firm of the ear – South, beating off stiff competition from family firms across the south of England. www.thefamilylawco.co.uk

HOTEL INDIGO

Hotel Indigo Exeter, on 3 Catherine Street – not yet open at the time of writing – has recently appointed a general manager, Rebecca Coonan. Rebecca has over 20 years’ experience in the hospitality industry having previously worked in several luxury, destination properties including The Idle Rocks in St Mawes on the Roseland Peninsula in Cornwall and the Cornwall Hotel in St Austell

“I want to make Hotel Indigo Exeter the best place to stay, drink, eat and relax in this amazing, vibrant city,” says Rebecca.

“We look forward to opening our doors to showcase this magnificent hotel and what we have achieved in its transformation.”

www.exeter.hotelindigo.com

A historic hotel in Exmouth with seaviews is now proud to host a Seascape Gallery. Over 20 of Devon’s artists are represented in this new dedicated gallery at The Manor Hotel, on The Beacon, with works on display ranging from abstract through to realism.

The gallery is open to everyone and there are planned art talks which will take place every second Thursday of each month. The public is invited to come and view the art and meet the artists.

For more: www.seadogart.com

SEA YOU THERE MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC

Design pro Julia Kendell

The new face of Hotel Indigo, Rebecca Coonan

The Family Law Company: Gemma Sparks and Dominika Windak receive the award

Manor Hotel’s Seascape art gallery

The hotel’s gallery has events planned for 2023

FINANCE DENNIS HALL

too many investors believe their goal is to ‘beat the market’”

arren uffett the world s fifth wealthiest person famously bet the S P500 index over a 0-year period against any hedge fund manager who accept the challenge. Hedge fund managers are supposedly the brightest of the bright but only one was brave enough to take on the challenge. It lost.

isk usiness

What makes a successful investor? Dennis investigates…

Periodically I am invited to review a portfolio of investments and I challenge myself to discover that person’s investment philosophy purely from looking at their portfolio. Then I compare my answer to theirs. Eventually I abandoned the challenge because my answer was always different to what the investor said they were doing.

Recently a new client forwarded their portfolio for my appraisal, and for old time’s sake I thought I would rekindle the challenge and attempt to discover their investment rationale. Again, I failed. Like many portfolios, there were too many funds to wade through, and I couldn’t fathom what drove the returns. as it skill, or was it luck

I often see opportunism or FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) represented in portfolios. Fund choices driven by sectors that were once hot. For every successful fund there are others that have lost money or underperformed. The more decisions made about which investments to buy or sell, the greater the probability of getting it wrong.

Still too many investors believe their goal is to ‘beat the market’. This is unrealistic when you consider that most professional fund managers consistently underperform the

market over the long term.

A realistic objective would be to achieve in ation beating returns over the long term. This can be achieved through investing in a simple low-cost global tracker fund. You don’t need the additional risk of making geographic or specific sector calls. To be a successful investor you only need remember three golden rules.

These are (1) invest in equities for the long term 2 be suitably diversified and 3 make sure you choose when to sell.

There’s a lot of academic research showing how higher equity in portfolios delivers higher and more sustainable returns over the long term. This is increasingly important to understand as more people rely on their own savings and investments when they reach retirement.

iversification means different things to different people. t a high level it means holding a range of asset classes like equities, property, and cash. Then there’s diversification within asset classes. Some fund managers try to balance performance and diversification by only holding 25 – 30 different shares in their funds, whereas a global equity index fund might hold more than ,000 different shares. ho s right

Making sure you choose when to sell means holding su cient cash or near cash so that when markets crash, you don’t have to sell investments at a loss. hen younger and still working, the amount of cash you need to hold is relatively small, but when you reach retirement, you might need closer to five years expenditure in cash.

I’ve mentioned that few managers beat “the index” and that most underperform. Statistically investing in the index serves most people better. Not just them, but their beneficiaries too. I have advised too many widows who have inherited portfolios with no idea what they’re invested in or why.

I challenge people to explain their investing philosophy to their beneficiaries left behind to manage things if they died. Very few can, and fewer still are confident the portfolio would fare well after they’ve gone. Little wonder then that arren uffett hasinstructed those in charge of his estate to invest 90 percent of his money into the S P 500 for his wife after he dies.

One thing I’ve learned about advising the bereaved is that these conversations must not wait until after someone’s death. Having conversations that lead to a shared philosophy enables couples and families to live life more confidently, knowing there s a sustainable plan even when things go wrong.

If you make simplicity your goal, how simple could you make it This uote from Einstein drives the philosophy of my own portfolio, “everything should be made as simple as possible, but no simpler”. n

Dennis Hall is the founder and managing director o ello ail inancial lannin a local r o independen nancial advisers e is also one o e or anisers o e er iverside arkrun au or o e ook o ill i ur en ie and a keen a a eur c e e lives in e er i is i e kiko

“Still

...And it’s kick off time!

The big business event of the city, the Exeter Living Awards, returns to The Great Hall on 30 March 2023. How can you make sure your nomination catches the attention of our judges? Here is some guidance to help you on your way...

Consider the judging criteria

Winners are chosen by the judges weighted on the following criteria:

• Clear evidence of business/organisation excellence in the year 50%

• Clear evidence of longer-term excellence 15%

• Civic/ESG/values 15%

• Quality of nomination 15%

• Testimonials 5%

Give measures of success

Explain clearly why your year has been so good.

For example, are your sales up? Have you taken on more people? Entered a new business area, launched a new product or opened up another outlet? Invested in the company’s future? Increased marketing successfully? Won an award? Or even acquired a company?

What have you been proud to achieve this year? What does success look like for you?

Quantify your success. Give tangible examples.

Longer-term excellence

How has your business developed? Indicate your success and quality over a longer period, whether a few years or longer.

Imagine being a judge

The awards are decided by our independent judges. They’ll read your nomination carefully and discuss what you’ve said. They – and they alone – will decide, collectively.

There will be several finalists shortlisted in each category. Imagine what it’d be like being a judge picking through all those nominations. Make it easy for them. Explain your

achievements clearly with key points. Think what the judges will want to know. Finish this sentence for them: “I think XYZ should win because…”

Marshal your case across categories

You can enter as many categories as are relevant to your business or organisation. And of course you could win two or more. Two options:

• Either provide extra information relevant to each category in question 5 of the nomination form.

• Or if the information in additional categories is significantly different, then complete a separate nomination form.

Awards are open to all

The awards are free to enter and can be won by any company: first timers, previous winners, advertisers, non-advertisers. If you’re in the area and have had a strong performance in one of our categories, then you can win. It’s a fresh panel of judges each time.

Make sure you qualify

Winners need to be based within approximately 20 miles of the city. If you’re close enough and much of your business is here, then you’ll be in. In the New Business category companies need to have begun no earlier than 1 July 2021. Please give your starting date.

Gather testimonials

Please submit up to three testimonials of which you are most proud. The more specific the better. And please make sure all testimonials are from the past 12 months.

Supporting material

Explain your values

How has your business contributed to the city? What are your values, from sustainability to diversity? How well run is your organisation and how do you look after your teams?

As with the business success section, quantify what you do.

Take care on your entry

Quality of nomination carries 15% of the decision. But more than that, make sure you demonstrate to the judges that you have taken the process seriously, with decent attention to detail and have been as thorough as they will need.

You don’t have to use up all the suggested wordcounts. But a thin nomination with throwaway one-liners won’t win. Likewise unanswered questions.

There is the option to supply up to four A4 pages of additional material. The more visual and/or case study-based this is, the better. If you think it will help your case, then please add it.

Enjoy the nomination process!

This is one of the very few opportunities in professional life to tell people about just how and why your business or organisation is exceptional. We all work so hard, all believe so strongly in what we do.

So enjoy the chance to reflect on your business, assemble your arguments and then to say exactly why you are great.

Keep 30 March 2023 clear!

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

For more guidance, head to: www.exeterlivingawards.co.uk

The nominations for the Exeter Living Awards are now open. Thinking of entering your business? Here are our top tips on how to write a winning entry...

PHOTO BY NICK MATTHEWS

2022 winners: Bear Town

“QUANTIFY WHAT YOU DO”

NEW YEAR, NEW HEALTH

How often should you get your ears, eyes and teeth looked at? What’s free on the NHS and what’s not? Here we ask a few local medical experts…

Christina Winterburn, Contemporary Dental

Getting a little bit older often coincides with paying more attention to one’s health and seeking regular checkups. Some tests and treatments are available on the NHS – though, of course, we know there are waiting lists. So, what kind of treatments are available to us privately in Exeter and how affordable is it e investigate...

CONTEMPORARY DENTAL

14 Queen’s Terrace, Exeter; www.contemporarydental.co.uk

Christina Winterburn, dental hygiene therapist

How often should people go for dental check-ups?

Ideally everyone should attend every six months for a dental check-up, however if you have no instances of caries (decay) or gum disease then a dentist may suggest annual visits.

Some people get very nervous about visiting the dentist... e offer sedation to allow our nervous patients access to high uality, pain- and stress- free treatment.

How do you help people manage the cost? e provide a monthly subscription called E P which spreads the cost of your routine appointments over a year. Fees start from as little as £16.40 a month and you will receive all necessary examinations, x-rays and hygiene treatment as re uired. s part of the plan a discount is provided for any further treatment and oral hygiene products you may need, and children under 10 are seen for free to each adult signed onto the plan.

What are your most popular treatments?

Our hygiene treatments are very popular; people are just more aware that the health of their gums matter as much if not more than the teeth. ithout healthy gums good uality dentistry just isn t possible, healthy gums helps achieve better uality restoration and help to maintain them.

EXETER VEIN AND HERNIA Nuffield Health,

Wonford Road, Exeter; www.exeterveinandhernia.co.uk

Mr David Birchley, consultant general and vascular surgeon Can you sum up your business and treatments?

Exeter Vein and Hernia (EVH) is my private specialist clinic based at u eld Exeter. I am an expert in the diagnosis, treatment and management of varicose vein disease, arterial disease, lower limb symptoms and hernia disease. I also work for the NHS in Exeter.

Tell us some of the issues people face with varicose veins...

Many patients have stories to tell of relatives who have lived with the conse uences of venous disease from bleeding veins to ulcers, endless dressings, and discomfort. Some have undergone treatment previously which has been unsuccessful the veins have recurred; the symptoms and worries returned.

lthough they are rarely dangerous, varicose veins cause aching and discomfort as well as an unsatisfactory cosmetic appearance. They are not a problem that needs to be accepted or lived with. Treatments are available which are uick, effective, and proven to improve uality of life.

www.mediaclash.co.uk

What does the NHS offer?

The NHS restricts treatment of varicose veins to those of Grade III and above (varicose veins with complications), meaning patients with cosmetic and symptomatic veins cannot be treated through the NHS. Similarly, hernias also need to meet certain criteria to merit NHS repair. These are so restrictive that many people live with life-limiting hernias before being eligible for treatment.

With the NHS under so much pressure right now, are you seeing more people come to you for treatments? bsolutely. Either because they are not eligible for S care, or they have been advised that the time to assessment and treatment within the NHS is longer than they wish to wait.

Do you offer any payment plans? es, finance packages can be arranged with the u eld. I also treat patients through most insurance companies.

INSPIRED DENTAL CARE 246 High Street, Exeter; www.inspireddentalcare.co.uk Molly Edwards (business manager) and Brittany Pittham (clinical manager) Dentistry is expensive, are there ways people can manage the cost?

e offer finance packages which helps people spread the cost of larger treatment plans without paying any extra fees. e also offer Practice Plan, which is a monthly payment starting from 9.95 which includes routine appointments throughout the year and gives a 10 per cent discount on any restorative treatment prescribed by your dentist and/ or hygienist.

What’s your USP as a company?

e are proud to have a dedicated in-house treatment coordinator who will be available six days a week to contact, speak to and liaise with. They will be with patients every step of the way to offer support whether that is clinically chairside during a treatment or virtually to offer advice, whenever they may need it.

What would be your top tips for maintaining healthy teeth?

ur advice would be brush morning and night with an electric toothbrush; do not rinse after brushing (spit don’t rinse!); don’t forget to brush your tongue; oss twice daily; and keep up to date with your routine dental exams and hygiene appointments.

The Inspired Dental Care team

ACUITIS OPTICIANS AND HEARING CENTRE

High Street, Exeter; www.acuitis.uk

Sophie Withers, optometry director

How often should people get their eyes tested?

A routine eye examination is recommended for all adults every two years. Children and those at higher risk of eye disease, may be recommended to visit their optician more frequently. This includes people with a family history of eye diseases like glaucoma and those with diabetes.

When do our eyes start to decline?

The risk of most eye disease increases with age, which is why the NHS fund free eye examinations for everyone over 60 years of age. However, as most eye diseases have no symptoms until they are advanced, regular eye examinations are recommended at all ages. During your routine eye examination your optometrist will assess your vision and preform a detailed health assessment that can detect a range of eye diseases as well as systemic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

proven particularly important in maintaining good eye health. Many opticians stock specialist ocular supplements to help support a healthy diet. Taking regular breaks from computer screens can help reduce dry eye disease and improve ocular comfort.

How much does it cost to get eyes tested?

NHS eye examinations are available free of charge from many opticians for those that are eligible. Private eye examinations vary in price dependent on the practice and can be anywhere between £2500. ou can find out if you are eligible for an NHS eye examination online or by visiting your local opticians.

“The NHS fund free eye examinations for everyone over 60”

What can do people do in their day-to-day lives to keep their eyes in good health?

We can do a number of simple things to help protect our eyes from eye disease and improve ocular comfort. UV exposure has been clinically proven to increase the risk of eye diseases such as dry eye, cataract and macular degeneration. Protecting our eyes with sunglasses, all year round, can help prevent sight loss from these conditions. Studies have also proven that the health of our diet can directly impact the health of our eyes, with green leafy vegetables such as kale and oily fish been

What is special about your eye

testing?

Most optometry practices charge additional fees for advanced tests not funded by the NHS. This includes OCT scan technology, a 3D, infrared scan designed to detect eye diseases, such as glaucoma, years earlier. At Acuitis we believe this revolutionary technology should be accessible to all and include OCT in all eye examinations, with no additional fees.

Failing eyesight is a sensitive subject…

Patients often tell us their sight is the sense they fear losing the most, and yet it is often something that we take for granted. Sight loss can be sudden and have a big impact on a person’s quality of life. At Acuitis, we pride ourselves on treating our customers like a member of our own family, with longer appointment times to communicate our findings and provide specialist low vision solutions. It is important to remember that most sight loss is preventable if detected early, and I would recommend anyone who is concerned about their eyesight to visit their optician as quickly as possible. n

LEFT: Doctor David Birchley, Exeter Vein and Hernia; RIGHT: The reception at Contemporary Dental

POST-COVID TRAVEL GUIDE

Covid had a devastating effect on travel, but as restrictions are all but gone, people are once again spreading their wings. EXETER TRAVEL CLINIC remind us of a few basic reminders of how to stay safe and healthy.

PREPARATION

Some simple preparation will help you prevent many problems, and 5% extra effort here can equal 20% extra comfort in the long run...

• Sort healthcare problems or dental issues before you leave

• Obtain any necessary vaccines and antimalarials early

• If you take medicines, ensure you have enough, plus some spare

• If you have a condition such as diabetes or epilepsy, we suggest carrying a medicalert bracelet

• If you carry an adrenaline auto-injector, confirm with the airline you can take this on-board

• Obtain appropriate travel insurance

• Scan passports and insurance documents, and email copies to yourself

• Have a hard-copy of important phone numbers

• Put together a small first-aid kit

• Visit the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office website for the latest in-country information

• Check accommodation reviews… with a sense of realism.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN

Travelling with young children can be an amazing experience, but can also be slightly daunting, as requirements for entertainment can be colossal.

• Keep snacks and drinks close to hand

• Consider how they are best entertained e.g. iPads/tablets, books or drawing

• If taking electronic devices, keep a small bag with charging leads, spare headphones, extra batteries and adapters

• Turn travel into an adventure, and keep a list of simple games to play

• Pay special care with food and water to avoid tummy bugs

• A parent’s mobile number on a wristband can be a sensible addition

• Car seats for kids may be different/nonexistent

GENERAL TRAVEL HEALTH

When you finally arrive remember a few pointers:

• Check the nearest fire escape to your room, and remember its direction from your room

• Does your door lock and is there a room safe? This is particularly important when staying in hostels

• If there is a mosquito net – check it for holes

• If there is no mosquito net – do you need one?

• Stay attentive. For instance, when leaving accommodation, have your eyes on your surroundings and not on your phone, and finish any calls before stepping out.

• If travelling as a group, make a note of everyone’s room numbers

Poorly cooked food is a leading cause of travellers’ tummy, so careful attention to what you eat and drink is essential:

• If you can’t cook it, boil it or peel it, forget it

• ‘Going veggie’ affords no greater protection against bugs!

• Market food cooked in front of you can be safer than some restaurants

• Market food left in the sun is not so safe

• Avoid tap water for anything other than washing

• Avoid ice in drinks

• Be particularly careful with dairy produce and shell-fish

If you do end up with traveller’s tummy, take it easy for a few days, and remember:

• Stay hydrated. The darker the pee, the more dehydrated you are. Aim for straw-coloured urine, (or if posh, champagne coloured (without the bubbles!))

• Add a little extra salt to your food, or have salty crisps. This is especially important in hot climates

• Flat cola with half a teaspoon of salt will help you rehydrate

• Seek medical attention if bitten by a mammal. n

ON RETURN

Occasionally medical problems crop up on return and these should be discussed with your GP. If you’ve been travelling for a long time, or to a particularly stressful location, it sometimes takes a little psychological adjustment on returning home. This is normal and remember, talking about your experiences will sometimes help.

USEFUL WEBSITES

www.travelhealthpro.org.uk www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/ life-with-diabetes/travel

22 Southernhay West, Exeter, EX1 1PR Email: enquiries@exetertravelclinic.co.uk Tel: 01392 430590. Twitter: @exetravelclinic www.exetertravelclinic.co.uk

PRIVATE MENOPAUSE CLINICS

DR CHARLOTTE CHANDLER MBBS MRCGP DCH WELLNESS@SKINSOUTHWEST.CO.UK

THE COSY

CLUBS

Want to make your winter holidays a little different this year, but still keep it close-ish to home? We have eight gorgeous options for you to check out in and around the vibrant cities of Bath and Bristol

By Matt Bielby

Hunker down and hibernate in the glorious No.15

“Set in an old boot factory and townhouse”Georgian

ARTIST RESIDENCE

Where is it? rade-I listed Portland S uare, five minutes from Cabot Circus, ristol What’s so special? Set in an old boot factory and eorgian townhouse, the eccentric, intimate and design-led rtist esidence offers 23 individually decorated bedrooms, including two suites and The ookout, a uni ue room tucked away in the eaves and set over two oors, with a private terrace overlooking the rooftops. What else? h, and there s art everywhere, much of it from locals like ose ickers, nnie Clay, and street artist edals. The food and drink at the industrial chic oot actory – their concrete-and-brick bar, caf and kitchen – is pretty special too, crowd-pleasingly Mediterranean and built around pi as, grilled meat and fish, and hearty bowls of pasta. For more: www.artistresidence.co.uk

AVON GORGE BY HOTEL DU VIN

Where is it? p in ristol s fancy Clifton illage with ama ing views across the worldfamous suspension bridge. What’s so special? Once one of the city s greatest wasted opportunities, now reinvigorated by the otel du in group, von orge offers suites, balcony and even garden rooms, witty-yet-elegant decor, and one of the most spectacular locations you ll ever see. What else? Plus, there s a uni ue restaurant, oram incent – imagine a gritty smokehouse with an open kitchen, coal fired grills and bespoke clay ovens – and the publike hite ion bar, both enjoying the most sublime views. lternatively, if you fancy being more central, otel du in s original City

Centre site is housed in a collection of radeII listed former sugar warehouses, and has a newly refurbished bistro too.

For more: www.hotelduvin.com

THE BATH PRIORY

Where is it? In leafy eston Park, 20 minutes walk from the centre of the city. What’s so special? The best British hotels tend to be either country houses – big, beautiful, but essentially isolated – or set in the heart of a city, inevitably a little smaller and a little louder, but with everything right on your

doorstep. Welcome to the best of both worlds: The ath Priory feels like the first, but it s just a short wander through a top-notch park to the heart of the ESC world heritage city. What else? Either relax in four acres of gardens, sink into a feather sofa in front of a roaring fire, explore the historic glamour of ath itself, or pamper yourself at The arden Spa by ccitane, the only one of its type in the . lternatively, try the afternoon tea this place is home to the Daily Telegraph’s ‘best scones in ath , don t cha know

For more: www.thebathpriory.co.uk

ABOVE: The stylish Artist Residence café space in Bristol; BELOW: Enjoy champagne in bed at Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin

BRISTOL HARBOUR HOTEL & SPA

Where is it? Right in the middle of historic Corn Street, occupying two former banks rammed into one.

What’s so special? This is a hotel with real wow factor, from the 42 rooms to the stunning Sansovino – built in 1850, inspired by Jacopo Sansovino’s 16th Century Venetian library, and once a banking hall. Then, deep underground in the former bank vaults, explore the HarSPA – central Bristol’s only luxury spa, we’re told – or the ultra-luxe Gold ar in the old bank manager s o ce, with its plush velvet armchairs, resident weekend DJ, and high-end speakeasy vibe.

What else? There’s the Harbour Kitchen, with its seafood-centric menu, to fortify you before hitting central Bristol’s bars, theatres and clubs – or exploring St Nicholas Market next door.

For more: www.harbourhotels.co.uk

HOTEL INDIGO BATH

Where is it? Between the Abbey and the railway station in central Bath.

What’s so special? Perfectly placed in the heart of the city, taking up numerous town houses on South Parade, Hotel Indigo Bath this year opened its 18th Century underground ault ooms, completing the final stage of a multi-million-pound restoration project. These 12 are each stunning and spacious, featuring exposed brickwork with soft lighting, timber finishing, vaulted stone ceilings and under oor heating, not to mention king-size Hypnos beds and spa-inspired bathrooms with roll-top baths and walk-in rainfall showers.

What else? Happily, on-site

restaurant The

CLOCKWISE: The sumptuous drawing room at the Bath Priory; the dining is pretty special at The Elder in Hotel Indigo Bath; The glittering Gold Bar at Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa

“Perfectly placed in the heart of the city”

Elder is at hand, sumptuous yet informal with an extraordinary menu, independently owned and run by restaurateur Mike Robinson and executive chef Gavin Edney. It’s widely acknowledged to be one of the most exciting dining options in Bath.

For more: www.bath.hotelindigo.com

LUCKNAM PARK

Where is it? Near Colerne in Wiltshire, seven miles northeast of Bath.

What’s so special? With a whopping 500 acres of parkland, Lucknam Park in Wiltshire really comes into its own in winter. This 42-room Palladian mansion provides an ideal escape for those looking for long country walks in the crisp winter air (dogs welcome), perhaps following the trail of statues dotted around the estate, while an E uestrian Centre offers hacks through the woodland and children will be kept busy with crafts and adventures inside The Hideaway. You can even take part in falconry or archery, before lazing in front of roaring log fires, accompanied by a wide choice of books and board games. What else? There’s an indoor pool and the Michelin-starred Restaurant Hywel Jones too, offering great views of the frost-touched gardens. Lucknam re-launched its spa this summer, alongside two new partners: Bathbased sustainable brand Natural Spa Factory, and global skincare leader 111SKIN, whose premium offering features non-surgical face lifts and an innovative Cryo chamber, designed to mimic the effects of extreme cold on the body’s natural system.

For more: www.lucknampark.co.uk

NO.15

Where is it? Half-way down Great Pulteney Street, familiar from Bridgerton, Vanity Fair and The Duchess What’s so special? No.15 is the perfect place for a winter hunker-down, right in the middle of one of Bath’s most spectacular roads yet feeling apart from the hustle and bustle somehow. This makes it the ideal base for both exploring the beautiful city, and hiding from it with sweets and popcorn from the Pantry and a classic disc from the vinyl library spinning on the in-room record player.

What else? Head down to The Spa (one favourite option is the Copper Room ritual, best with a carefully chosen plus one!) or for afternoon tea, carefully curated by pastry chef Gabi. No.15 is undergoing something of a revamp at the moment, with air conditioning rolling out across the hotel in time for the spring. And if you don’t fancy one of those orange-pink electric scooters that have started colonising Bath’s streets and pavements, why not borrow a Brompton bike from the hotel and explore on two wheels?

For more: www.guesthousehotels.co.uk

ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL & SPA

Where is it? Right in the centre of arguably the city’s most famous street, The Royal Crescent. What’s so special? Recently voted ‘Hotel of the Year’ at the 2022 VisitEngland Awards, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is a classic destination in a classy city. Pick from 45 luxurious bedrooms and suites, all by interior designer Jane Clayton, then explore Bath –just a pleasant five-minute stroll away – with the hotel’s concierge team on hand to book the best tables and recommend things to do. Later, dine or take afternoon tea at The Dower House Restaurant; pamper yourself in the award-winning spa, with its heated Relaxation Pool; or enjoy the Taittinger Spa Garden (perhaps with a blanket over your knees), part of the hotel’s acre of grounds. What else? In 2023, The Dower House undergoes an exciting refurb, with stylish new d cor to accompany a new fine-dining menu, while April will see the launch of a new Luxury Balloon Flight Experience, inviting couples and friends to take to the skies during the warmer months, and experience breath-taking views of Bath’s beautiful landmarks.

For more: www.royalcrescent.co.uk

ABOVE: Opt for private dining in the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa’s Library Room; BELOW: Lucknam Park provides an idyllic retreat

MONEY TALKS

In an industry where more online investment platforms are coming onto the market, Redmayne Bentley provides a service based on long-term relationships, built on trust and understanding of client requirements.

What do you find rewarding about your role? The relationships built up with clients is one of the most rewarding aspects of my role. Relationships are built on trust, and I pride myself on the London Stock Exchange motto “Dictum Meum Pactum” which means “my word is my bond.”

should people utilise your services over others?

We provide a personal, tailored and flexible approach to managing clients’ investments, using expertise across all asset classes to tailor the portfolio and service to each client. Clients can speak directly with the person who makes decisions on their behalf.

This culture is also at the centre of our stockbroking service which is suited to a wide

range of investors seeking a high-quality service with a stockbroker.

Do you offer any bespoke services to clients?

Our bespoke discretionary investment management service is one of our main offerings. In this service we create and manage portfolios according to the individual needs of the client, taking the time to get to know and understand them and their financial situation. This includes their investing timeframe and whether they require an income stream or would simply like to either grow or preserve their capital.

This service is ideal for clients who either do not have the time or knowledge to manage their own portfolios and who want to benefit from direct access to their own personal investment manager.

Any recent success stories?

The firm was awarded Wealth Manager of the Year, Stockbroker of the Year, Self-Select ISA of the Year and Investor Champion of the Year at the 2022 Investors’ Chronicle and Financial Times Investor Awards held in November. n

For more information visit us at: 20 Southernhay West, Exeter, EX1 1PR Email: Denis.Oppong@redmayne.co.uk Tel: 01392 687230 www.redmayne.co.uk/Exeter

Why

Denis Oppong, Investment Manager at REDMAYNE BENTLEY LLP explains what sets them apart as a business...

THE CIDER BARN

Step inside this gorgeous rural property, just two miles from Exeter St David’s train station

By Imogen Davidson-Smith

Nestled in East Devon countryside, just outside of the small village of Longdown, and about four miles west of Exeter, lies the Cider arn. pproached off a quiet, no-through country lane via a shared gravel driveway that sweeps around to a parking area, this semidetached property is thought to date back to the early to mid-Victorian period, and was originally part of a collection of substantial former agricultural buildings arranged around a central yard. If you like the idea of being in the sticks but fear being completely cut off this might be the perfect choice for you, as the farmhouse and adjacent barns now form a small community of five separate properties positioned amidst a patchwork of fields and broadleaf woodland.

That said, privacy between the properties has been carefully considered and optimised by walling and hedging, and most of the windows in the barn face out across the garden and grounds to the rear.

The barn is built of stone, mostly rendered, under a slate roof and the interiors have been modernised cleverly to make the best use of all the available space and has a south east/north west axis.

An old dingy old farmhouse this is not – there is an abundance of roo ights combined with a long galleried landing on the first oor and a pale colour scheme provide a fabulous feeling of light and space.

n the ground oor, you ll find the dining room and sitting room on one side and the superbly equipped kitchen, adjacent breakfast room and snug on the other. The sitting room has a charming inglenook fireplace fitted with a wood-burning stove and rench windows

opening to the terrace and garden, while the snug is a cosy spot for relaxing over long winter evenings.

The kitchen has a wide opening through to the adjacent breakfast room and both rooms have reclaimed wood ooring and are well lit by natural light.

The kitchen is fitted with a range of units including a large central island, all under black granite surfaces, a bespoke kitchen wall, fitted with built in merican style fridge/freezer, TV, Bose sound system and SMEG bean-to-cup coffee machine, a range of built-in electric appliances plus an oil-powered, two-oven AGA. pstairs and off the first oor galleried landing are four bedrooms, two of them with en suite shower rooms including the principal, which is accessed by a second ash wood oating staircase. The other two bedrooms share the family bath and shower room with the large attic bedroom that currently serves as a home o ce. ead outside and you ve got generous grounds at your disposal, about 1. 2 acres in full to play with.

On the opposite side of the parking area and immediately adjacent to the house is a sheltered and paved terrace, which provides a lovely spot with room for separate seating and dining areas, that is perfect for outside entertaining in fine weather.

Most of the extensive gardens extend out beyond the terrace and are designed for ease of maintenance with a long sweep of gently sloping lawn planted here and there with a variety of trees, including multiple fruit trees, with views out over unspoilt countryside beyond. On the south-east side of the barn is a further paved terrace area that enjoys sunshine from early afternoon to sunset, that is accessible from the sitting, dining and breakfast rooms and overlooks a communal lawn.

If these thoughts of wide open spaces and beers out on the terrace are making your heart skip a beat, we suggest booking a viewing – pronto. n

HOUSE NUMBERS

Outside double garage, garden (1.20 pacres) and patio Guide price £895,000

For more Knight Frank, 19 Southernhay E, Exeter; www.knightfrank.co.uk

HANNAH FOLEY

Hannah is an award-winning children’s author and specialist nurse at the RD&E. Here, she chats about her new book, tending to her veggies and her love for Devon

The Tiger Who Sleeps Under My Chair comes out in February. What’s it all about? It’s a family mystery exploring themes of mental illness, but it’s also about fossils, a triathlon, golden summers, and most of all, friendship.

You write and illustrate. With this latest book do you both?

Illustration has taken a back seat to my writing more recently, but yes, I illustrated the chapter headings for this book. The front cover is illustrated by another wonderful Devon lady, called Lucy Rose. I’m a visual person so my writing often starts with imagery. This story started with the autumnal scene where Emma walks through the woods with the tiger, surrounded by falling leaves. I couldn’t help wondering where

this young woman was going and why. How did she come to have a tiger for a companion?

Can you tell us about your journey to becoming a children’s author...

I was working as an illustrator and my agent encouraged me to write my own picture book. I went to a writing evening class, but picture book texts are really di cult, and I ended up writing a children’s novel, The Spellbinding Secret of Avery Buckle instead. That book went on to win the Kelpies Prize and I’ve carried on writing.

Where do you live and why is it special?

I grew up in East Devon and now live in Exeter. I love that I can stand in the middle of Exeter and see green hills. It’s a

city with a strong relationship with the countryside. I think Devon folks are a brilliant mixture of expansive generosity, connectedness, down-toearth common sense and wry rebelliousness that’s very special.

How does being in Devon influence your stories?

The spirit of a place and the way humans are connected to particular landscapes is inspired by my own relationship with Devon. My dad was an agricultural worker. I love how it’s possible to read stories in the form of the land, like the ancient timeline in the Jurassic coast or the way ploughing practices have shaped hills and headlands. But Devon is subject to the same pressures as other places, and I wrestle with that – the good and bad of where you come from.

Where do you write and what is your routine?

I write wherever there’s a quiet corner at home. Having so little time means I’m good at focussing quickly and getting on with it whenever I have chance.

You work from home, and also have kids – how do you manage it? Any top tips for parents who are also writers? There’s a lot of juggling! We don’t have a telly and my partner is very supportive. I think it’s easy to think writing is all about sitting at a desk and getting words down, but part of my mind is always searching for plot line solutions and grappling with dialogue even when I’m cleaning the loo or bathing the kids. Really I’m writing all the time. My top tip would be to find ways of keeping that conversation with your text going even when you haven’t got fingers on a keyboard.

What does a really good day for you look like?

I’m happiest tending my veggies on my allotment, cooking up hearty stews and sitting by a fire under the stars with the family.

What’s the trickiest thing about your chosen profession?

Both my professions are poorly paid but at least there’s some stability with nursing. For ordinary people who need to put food on the table, writing is impossibly unpredictable.

Does your career in nursing inspire any of your writing?

Absolutely, especially the mental health themes of this book. You get to look behind the scenes at what makes people tick. It’s a very privileged position.

What do you hope to put out there in the world with your books?

We’re socialised from the minute we’re born, our ideas boxed in by walls we don’t even realise exist most of the time. I hope I can encourage children to ask questions about the value of different perspectives and experiences.

Where can we see you locally?

4 February is my book launch at Exeter’s bookshop, Bookbag [in the Real McCoy Arcade on Fore Street] and on 13 February is a book event at Exeter St Thomas Library.

Lastly, if someone made a film about your life, who would play you?

Catherine Tate. n

For more: www.hannah-foley.co.uk

© ROSIE PARSONS

“Devon folks are a brilliant mixture of expansive generosity, connectedness, down-toearth common sense and wry rebelliousness”