Mercedes-Benz Points West by gareth allen

The South West lifestyle magazine from Mercedes-Benz South West

Points West

Issue One

The Extraordinary Life Of Charlotte Gordon Cumming - Gerald David & Family The New Cleaner V6 Engine - Mitch Tonkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Seahorse Restaurant - The CLS-Class The New C250 Blueefficiency Sport Auto Estate - Agility Finance - Healthy Living Devon Artist Alan Cotton - Affordable Servicing - The Blossoming South West New Engines For The S-Class - 2011 Gift Collection - The smart Attraction

WELCOME TO POINTS WEST

Hello and welcome

New V6 cleans up Significant improvements in both environmental compatibility and power

The Seahorse restaurant Nichola Vicker visits Mitch Tonk’s Dartmouth restaurant

White Spirit Our features editor, Simon Milton, drives the C-Class Sport Estate

Gerald David and Family The award-winning Devon butcher plays happy families

Refined sportiness A detailed look at the blend of style and driveability that is the CLS-Class

A Private View South West media darling Judi Spiers visits Alan Cotton’s studio to talk princes, painting and palette knives

You have to be smart to be noticed Paul Broadbent argues that this tiny icon is big on star quality

21 25

Electric A-Class goes live Mercedes-Benz A-Class E-CELL

A Brave Song An interview with singer/songwriter Charlotte Gordon Cumming, a.k.a. Mrs Nicholas Evans

With iPad sales projected to be in excess of 50million by the end of 2012, I do hope that you’ll take the opportunity to come along with us on this ride. Like everything from Mercedes-Benz, it promises to be exhilarating!

Extra special Treat someone or yourself with these fantastic gift ideas

Mike Wickins Managing Director

Road Raker We talk about service with Mercedes-Benz South West top management

Being a part of the Mercedes-Benz universe as we are it’s impossible not to be constantly aware of the innovation that’s inherent in every model of Mercedes-Benz that comes into the showroom. Ever since the company was founded by Karl Benz, the father of the motor car, we have consistently been able to demonstrate to our customers exciting innovations from Mercedes-Benz in driver safety, economy, financing, sustainability, quality, comfort and entertainment. I’m particularly delighted therefore to be able to be innovating ourselves, by bringing you not only an expanded magazine with twice as much content and with interviews and reviews from around the South West, but by also making this available as an even larger digital magazine for Apple’s innovative iPad device. The iPad version comes alive in your hands with interactivity, videos, sound clips and interactive galleries bringing you closer to the content. We’re covering a broad range of subjects across the region from arts and lifestyle to business and, of course, Mercedes-Benz’s latest news.

Two great offers to choose from.

A-Class.

B-Class.

Buy a refined A-Class Elegance SE or sporty Avantgarde SE for the price of a Classic SE. The upgrade includes features such as:

There are so many reasons to buy a B-Class and our free upgrade from a B-Class SE to a Sport line offers even more. The upgrade includes features such as:

• 16” alloy wheels • Light and Sight Package • Seat Comfort Package • Artico artificial leather/cloth upholstery • Nappa leather-trimmed steering wheel

• 18” AMG 5-spoke alloy wheels • Sports pedals • Tinted tail lights • Artico artificial leather/cloth upholstery • Front fog lamps with horizontal chrome trim

And even if you should choose to upgrade your specification, you can stillbenefit from our highly competitive Typical 6.9% APRˆ finance rate.

And even if you choose to upgrade to a Sport you can still benefit from our highly competitive Typical 6.9% APR^ finance rate.

Free specification upgrade worth £1,635.

Save £310 on a specification upgrade.

Contact your local retailer for more details and to book your test drive - today. Mercedes-Benz of Exeter Matford Park Road, Exeter, EX2 8FD 0844 822 5188 www.mercedes-benzofexeter.co.uk Mercedes-Benz of Plymouth Tavistock Road, Derriford, PL6 8BB 0844 822 5264 www.mercedes-benzofplymouth.co.uk

Mercedes-Benz of Taunton Toneway, Taunton, TA1 2EJ 0844 822 5299 www.mercedes-benzoftaunton.co.uk Mercedes-Benz of Truro Probus, Truro, TR2 4HX 0844 822 5335 www.mercedes-benzoftruro.co.uk

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the Mercedes-Benz range: urban 13.0(21.7)-52.3(5.4), extra urban 22.4(12.6)-72.4(3.9), combined 17.8(15.9)- 62.8(4.5). CO2 emissions: 378-118 g/km. Models featured are a Mercedes-Benz A 160 BlueEFFICIENCY Avantgarde SE 5 door at £19,205.00 on the road including optional metallic paint at £370.00 and 18” AMG alloy wheels at £1,145.00 a Mercedes-Benz B 160 Sport Automatic at £21,495.00 on the road (on the road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). Upgrade offer is provided subject to availability and is applicable to all A-Class Elegance SE and Avantgarde SE models and B-Class Sport models purchased between 4th January and 31st March 2011 and registered by 30th June 2011. ^Based on a Mercedes-Benz Agility agreement over 36 months. Offer is subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Prices correct at time of going to press. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK7 8ND. Prices correct at time of going to press (01/11).

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OUR IPAD VERSION HAS MORE

THE NEW V6 CLEANS UP

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he E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY is now even more of a polished performer thanks to a revised V6 engine that offers significant improvements in both environmental compatibility and power.

New V6 cleans up The increase in performance and power have not been to the detriment of efficiency and there are considerable advancements in fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

Compared to the previous E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY the new model has 15 per cent more power and torque, the respective outputs now being 265hp and 620Nm. However the increase in performance and power have not been to the detriment of efficiency and there are considerable advancements in fuel economy and CO2 emissions. Emissions are now as low as 162 g/ km (Saloon) with improvements for the Saloon and Estate being 10 per cent and 11 per cent respectively. Combined fuel economy is now bettered on the Saloon by 11 per cent and 13 per cent on the Estate. Behind the improvements are extensive revisions to the 2,987cc engine of the E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, which include an optimised turbocharger, aluminium crankcase and pistons and a new water pump. The new engine means the annual road fund licence for the E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Saloon is reduced from £300 to £155 in the first year and the standard rate is lowered from £200 to £155. Benefit in Kind taxation is decreased from 28 per cent to 24 per cent. Also contributing to the superb drive of the latest E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY is the 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission. A development of the 7G-Tronic seven-speed gearbox, this new transmission perfectly complements the flexibility of the enhanced V6 engine. Other E-Class models will receive this transmission throughout the year.

OUR IPAD VERSION HAS MORE. SEARCH FOR ‘MBSW’ IN ITUNES

NICHOLA VICKERS VISITS MITCH TONK’S DARTMOUTH RESTAURANT

The Seahorse

ith the sat nav working overtime on one of the coldest December nights in Devon, Pascal and I head for the welcoming lights of Dartmouth. We arrived at Mitch Tonks’ restaurant and are greeted by a wave of warmth, smiles and genuine hospitality. The Seahorse combines an air of sophistication and simplicity with a relaxed and cosy atmosphere – given Mitch’s reputation and our first impressions, we knew we were in for a treat! After delicious antipasti of roasted peppers with sweet vinegar and olives from Sicily, we explored the straight forward and non-effacing Menu of the Day. However, our choices were made all the more easier when Mitch came and introduced himself and gave us his personal recommendations. Having previously set my heart on having Calamari fritti as a starter, I changed my mind (a women’s prerogative after all) and ordered the Scallops from Lyme Bay roasted in the shell with garlic and white port. My partner, Pascal, chose the Brodo di crostacei, a Sardinian shellfish broth with tomato and fregola. Neither choices disappointed. The

scallops were mouth watering, the white port adding a slight punch to the subtle flavour of the scallops - the shellfish broth was earthy and wholesome, giving a real taste of the Mediterranean. For the main course, we shared a black bream – one of the day’s local ‘landings’. Grilled over a charcoal fire with herbs and garlic, this fish on a dish was delish! Simply presented, the skin was crunchy and smokey, and the fish flesh true to itself. The accompanying fennel gratin and pink fir potatoes complimented the simplicity of the dish beautifully as did the Chablis carefully chosen by Pascal. Although neither of us are ‘pudding’ people, Pascal was keen to check out the scroppino –this boozy smoothy from Italy was made from vodka, prosecco, lemon sorbet and mint and was a delicious palette cleanser. The Seahorse is a treat not to be missed – a wonderful chance to be at the receiving end of an experts love and joy of all things fishy. For reservations call 07720 894171 www.seahorserestaurant.co.uk

Baked Sea Bream ‘al cartoccio’ (Serves 4) You will need: 1 sea bream (1.25kg approx), scaled and gutted A few sprigs of rosemary 1 small dried chilli 6 whole cloves of garlic, skin left on Sea salt 50ml olive oil ½ glass of dry white wine 1 lemon

Navigate to the Seahorse by radio To Make: Put a piece of turkey-size tinfoil, about 70-80cm long on to a work surface and cover with a layer of parchment paper. Fold over each edge so that the foil and parchment are secured together at the edges. Put a couple of sprigs of rosemary in the belly cavity of the fish and a couple in the centre of the parchment. Lay the fish on the parchment and crumble the chilli over the top. Lightly crush the garlic cloves by putting the flat side of a knife on top and giving it a thump with your hand, then put them on and around the fish. Sprinkle with sea salt. Lift up the edges of the foil to keep everything in and add the olive oil and wine. Now encase the fish in the foil – it should be in a loose bag but sealed tightly, enabling it to steam. Place it on a roasting tray and bake in a hot oven for 35 minutes. Remove from the oven and carefully undo the bag, folding back the sides to make the fish easy to get at. Squeeze a little lemon over the top and give everyone a plate so they can help themselves. © Mitch Tonks

If you already have, or are thinking of specifying, the Audio 20 CD option on your next C-Class or E-Class car then the new Navigation 20 option will help you find your way. Literally. Navigation 20 transforms your radio into a powerful, easy to use navigation system complete with the latest map navigation, European maps and a wealth of convenient functions such as Reality View Pro to show what junctions really look like and Lane Assist Pro to help keep you on the straight and narrow. Installation is tidy as well, as the upgrade integrates directly into the vehicle’s control system and interior layout. As you might expect, the system also has media connections for music, whether from your iPod, USB or streamed from your mobile - with Navigation 20 your music is always on board. Speak to your local Mercedes-Benz South West showroom to find out more.

White spirit

hite is the new black, or so it seems at the moment. Having driven a black car for the last few years I have recently found myself increasingly drawn to white cars, as indeed it appears are many other people judging by their increasing frequency on our roads. I was therefore rather pleased to see that our test car for the day’s drive to Cornwall was a soft offwhite Sport trim estate, complete with 18” AMG five spoke alloys and a contrasting black roof with svelte aluminium roof rails and twin sunroofs - the latter item not entirely put to best use on this grey winter’s day, though I do find the additional daylight generally makes being in a car a more pleasant experience. Although we are based in the South West, we have clients across the country and I clock up around 25,000 miles a year as a result. I’ve never been keen on automatic gearboxes and my increasing years make me rile against them all the more, but the compromise offered by the Sport auto is intriguing, as the paddle shift Tiptronic controls provide some involvement with the car when you want it, with the option to fall back into auto as you idle in the slow-moving traffic of our nation’s capital.

This is not a sports car, nor does it pretend to be, and a smoother driving style paid dividends

Like many people, I suspect I have pigeon-holed Mercedes-Benz as belonging to an older generation and definitely not mine, regardless of my actual age. In searching for a replacement for my current car the usual suspects were on the list, BMW 3 series, Audi A4 and for the first time ever, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. I’m also a convert to turbo-charged diesel cars for everyday driving, as the low-end torque makes driving so much more relaxed and the improved efficiency of the Mercedes 2143cc unit (53.3mpg and 145g/km of CO2) beats the comparable BMW 325d MSport, which produces more CO2 and is 5.4mpg thirstier. On the road the car feels firm, but never harsh, despite the sport suspension, lowered by 15mm and the larger optional AMG rims. We drove from Exeter down the A38 and then cut across Dartmoor to get the feel of the car in atmospheric drizzly conditions and to see how it felt on various road types. The overall ride is very pleasant, with very smooth and impressive brakes keeping the wildlife safe as we traversed Haytor. The speed-sensitive steering is also nicely weighted and the car’s response is agile and accurate with little body roll. I also found

FEATURES EDITOR SIMON MILTON DRIVES THE C250 CDI SPORT ESTATE

On the road the car feels firm, but never harsh, despite the sport suspension, lowered by 15mm and the larger optional AMG rims

the seats very comfortable, the firmer upper areas really supporting my shoulders and making me feel more relaxed, which I felt translated into my driving style throughout the day. I did feel that one got the best from the car by using the torque of the engine rather than by messing about with the gearbox. This is not a sports car, nor does it pretend to be, and a smoother driving style paid dividends in terms of pace and comfort, making this the perfect car for my everyday needs. iPad

Our destination was the relatively newly rebuilt St Moritz Hotel near Polzeath, on Cornwall’s dramatic north coast. It’s an area I know well, having once lived locally for some years (I even stayed in the original incarnation of the hotel as a teenager), although I hadn’t been back for some years. Sometimes you fall out of love with a place despite its obvious charms, but as we rolled into the hotel car park I was delighted to see that here too, white was the colour of choice. The building, whilst being new, has echoes of Miami Beach combined with a contemporary re-working reminiscent of the 1920’s deco style on the outside, whilst the interior is never flashy, but extremely welcoming and comfortable.

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As we photographed the car in front of the main building I couldn’t help but think of the similarities between the two – both of them stylish, well considered, contemporary but with a nod to the past, both of them comfortable and extremely competent. Oh yes, and both of them in white. St Moritz Hotel Trebetherick, Wadebridge, Cornwall, PL27 6SD 01208 862242 www.stmoritzhotel.co.uk

LINDA HORNER IN CONVERSATION WITH GERALD DAVID

Gerald David plays Happy Families

emember Happy Families? And the jovial Mr Bones the Butcher illustrated by Sir John Tenniel of Alice in Wonderland fame? Well, Gerald David is your Mr Bones down to a T. With his wife, three sons and daughter and now the grandchildren. They all play a part in a prosperous business that has spread across Devon and Somerset. Gerald is proper Devon stock, born and bred. His affable chatter has soft Devon cadences interrupted by a peppery spat of opinion, followed by a chuckle to stay off any offence. The kind of man you want to listen to as much as for what he has to say as the way that he says it. Gerald was brought up on a farm and was hand-milking cows well before he came of age. But he could only take

it for so long. He was typically blunt: “I got fed up with those shitty cows’ tail wapping me round the face so I became a butcher”. That was in the 1969. What was his reason for success? Probably his uncompromising pursuit of quality but he puts it differently: “Well my way if thinking is, if you want your children to come into the business – which I did – you have to involve them in everything. I remember when the boys were coming in, I was worried how the heck they could improve on what we had achieved. I was so wrong. It’s amazing what they have achieved.” Today, the business is well-diversified as any good business has to be. There are shops in Minehead, Dulverton, Taunton, Newton Abbot and Topsham with a delicatessen and a fish shop at Minehead. They have a thriving on-line business sending top quality meat

His affable chatter has soft Devon cadences interrupted by a peppery spat of opinion, followed by a chuckle to stay off any offence.

Gerald David (second from right) with his family

across the country and are regular stallholders at the major food fairs from Monmouth to Kent. The fact is, Gerald is adamant about quality and does not mind what it takes to get it. He takes time to get to know the farmers, how they produce, how they look after their animals, how they’re fed. He has an abattoir, so he knows the whole journey of his product from pasture to plate. In his opinion there is nothing to beat the Red Ruby Devon for the best beef. It’s a breed distinguished by a coat as red as Devon’s soil. Gerald’s pride in his product is matched by the service he gives his customers. Mercedes-Benz commercial vans fit with his quality ethos. He relies on a couple of Sprinters and a Vito – all of them refrigerated. Supplying his shops, home deliveries and attending events is a logistical challenge. “I love ‘em,” says Gerald. “ A joy to drive. Automatic, too! I never realised they made such a thing. And comfortable, almost like driving a big car.” His shop is filling up with people waiting to be served. They seem cheerful and in no hurry. You can’t help wondering whether it’s the beef, lamb, pork, chicken or turkey they have come for … or to listen to his robust tales of the county his calls his own.

Visit Gerald David and Family at www.geralddavid.co.uk or drop in at one of his many locations. Minehead 3 Park Street, Minehead, Somerset TA24 5NQ Tel: 01643 702843 Jenny’s Deli 3 Park Street, Minehead, Somerset TA24 5NQ Tel:01643 702843 Dulverton Fore Street, Dulverton, Somerset TA22 9EX Tel: 01398 323308 Puxton Park Hewish, Western- Super-Mare Somerset BS24 6AH Tel:01934 523507 The Orchard, Taunton, Somerset TA1 3TP Tel:01823 334400 Darts Farm Darts Farm Topsham, Devon EX3 0QH Tel: 01392 878203 Fermoy’s Ipplepen, NewtonAbbot, Devon TQ12 5TN Tel: 01803 813747 Countryman’s Choice Farmshop Endsleigh Garden Centre, Ivybridge near Plymouth. PL21 9JL Tel:01752 897914

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A LOOK AT THE CLS-CLASS

scintillating fusion of sporting prowess and luxury awaits customers of the new CLS-Class. The sumptuous four-door coupé will be available with a choice of three advanced engines from launch, all of which ensure that the distinctive CLS-Class has the performance to complement its muscular styling. CLS-Class customers can pick from the 265hp CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY diesel and 306hp CLS 350 BlueEFFICIENCY petrol V6 models and, for the first time ever, a four-cylinder version in the shape of the refined CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY diesel. All models also benefit from the new 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission as standard. The engines utilise energy-saving measures such as the ECO start/stop function and the V6s are as much as 25 per cent more economical than their predecessors with considerable increases in power too. Efficiency is also optimised thanks to the slippery shape of the new CLS-Class, the often imitated but never rivalled coupé having a drag co-efficient of only 0.26Cd – a 13 per cent improvement on the original CLS-Class. Those who opt for the CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY will find that it more than meets their expectations. Smooth, seamless power is created through the engine’s twin turbochargers, producing 204hp and 500Nm torque. The car can accelerate from 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 150mph yet emits as little as 135g/km CO2 and returns an impressive 54.3mpg on the combined fuel economy cycle.

Refined sportiness The CLS-Class debuts LED High Performance headlamps for the first time in a passenger car. Technological advancements are not only limited to the engines. The CLS-Class is the first Mercedes-Benz model to have frameless, all-aluminium doors and its electromechanical power steering is a world first, the system only using energy when the CLS-Class is actually being steered and providing an unprecedented level of feel between the driver, car and road. The CLS-Class also debuts LED High Performance headlamps for the first time in a passenger car and additional safety features available include Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist. Both systems use an array of sensors and interact with the ESP® system to highlight and avoid potential collisions. The new CLS-Class starts from £46,355.00 on the road.

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More choice, more equipment A change for the better The acclaimed 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission has been refined to create an even more impressive and smooth-shifting version – the 7G-Tronic Plus. Selected E-Class, S-Class and CL-Class models are available with the new transmission, which has been optimised to generate improvements in terms of fuel consumption and comfort. A new design of torque converter has sharpened dynamic response, whilst noise and vibration levels have been lowered too. Friction-optimised bearings and gaskets along with a newly-developed automatic transmission oil have increased the transmission’s efficiency and more than doubled the amount of miles before an oil change is required. In addition, the transmission’s ‘E’ mode has been altered in favour of lower engine rpm at cruising speeds. Further models will be fitted with the 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission this year, including the new CLS-Class.

Exterior colour shown not available on UK models. (pricing includes 20 per cent VAT).

The new CLS-Class really does offer more. Standard equipment has been enhanced and for the first time there is the addition of a new CLS Sport, which is positioned between the entry model and forthcoming, top-of-the-range AMG version. New for the entry model are the additions of front and rear Parktronic with Active Park Assist, Attention Assist and a DAB digital radio as standard. Other features include 18” alloy wheels, leather interior and satellite navigation. The CLS Sport adds 19” AMG alloy wheels, AMG bodystyling and LED High Performance headlights. The AMG version will continue to be called the CLS 63 AMG but will be fitted with the new 5.5-litre V8 biturbo that made its recent debut in the S 63 AMG and CL 63 AMG. Producing up to 557hp and a staggering 800Nm of torque with optional AMG Performance Package, the engine allows the CLS 63 AMG to sprint from 0-62mph in just 4.4 seconds (4.3 seconds with the AMG Performance Package) yet is actually 32 per cent more economical than the previous model. Further variety will be added to the range with the arrival of the V8 petrol engine CLS 500 BlueEFFICIENCY, which will be launched alongside the CLS 63 AMG soon after launch of the V6 and 4-cylinder models.

JUDI SPIERS IN CONVERSATION WITH ALAN COTTON

olaton Raleigh- based Alan Cotton is one of Britain’s most distinguished landscape artists. His efforts however weren’t always appreciated. At one time his auntie wanted to throw him out of the house because his paintings were, as she put it, “ everywhere.” “When’s Alan going to grow up and get a real job?” she was often heard to say. “If she could come back now” he told me, “I’d love to take her to one of my shows in London, I really would.” She would indeed be enormously proud of the young boy who started painting with brushes made from his mother’s hair, and who at 15 as he puts it, “had the audacity to send work to the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists.” He actually sent three paintings and got them accepted. For years as a young art student he had walked down Cork Street, London looking at some of the great exhibitions, dreaming of what it would be like to exhibit in the West End. At that time he had found the galleries intimidating and not at all welcoming to young students, dripping water over their carpets and polished wooden floors. Seeing his name emblazoned

County Kerry – Sunlight after the downpour

A private view with Alan Cotton in red across the window for the first time was as Alan said, “the most amazing feeling,” admitting that “even twenty years later I still feel the same excited anticipation as I arrive to see the show beautifully hung and lit by the gallery team”. After studying at Birmingham College of Art and then the University of Birmingham Alan came to Devon where he did research at the University of Exeter and went on to become Senior Lecturer in Painting and Art History at Rolle College, Exmouth, before giving up teaching to pursue his passion. After meeting and chatting with Alan a couple of times at various events he invited me to a private viewing at his home. Nothing could have prepared me for what I saw. A studio full of stunning paintings of Hartland, the West Coast of Ireland, Tuscany, Morocco and Provence and Venice. I was so knocked out that the mouth decided not to work with the brain and before I could stop myself I blurted out, “Ooh I love those gold frames!” Alan’s response? He laughed and was generous enough to admit that he too had “lusted” after them when he’d first seen them, only to be told when he tried to purchase some, “Oh no, you can’t buy them. These are made for individual paintings and rather special clients.” “I was quite deflated,” he admitted. “I have never forgotten the exact

Devon Hartland - Surging Tide over the Rocks

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words he said to me; ‘Our man is in Somerset. If you give him a ring, he may care to accommodate you.’” Alan did just that and was deemed worthy of the said frames, and since then Michael Beddoe, Master Frame Maker and Guilder has made all of the frames for his London shows for the last 16 years, and as Alan says “we’re great friends.” Alan also enjoys a very special friendship with David Messum, his dealer for twenty odd years. I say ‘special’ because as Alan told me “there is a kind of folk law that there’s always a bit of a battle between an artist and his dealer.” SEE MORE IN OUR IPAD VERSION They first met when Alan SEARCH FOR ‘MBSW’ IN ITUNES was making a film about the Newlyn School of Artists for BBC television. An auction of paintings was in full swing New Zealand and Fiji as his Tour Artist in 2005. Despite and some of the local dealers had told Alan that a big the fact that official engagements didn’t allow much dealer from London, David Messum, was coming down time for the Alan to sit and paint with the Prince he was to bid for the star work – a painting by the Newlyn able to see first hand how he interacted with people. artist Thomas Cooper Gotch. The cameras were rolling and the painting was on the easel, but still no sign of “The Prince has the ability to put people at their ease and David Messum. Then as the bidding rose, a silhouette communicates easily. In Sri Lanka he gave everyone a appeared in the doorway, as Alan says, “like John lift. I am full of admiration for him. He is compassionate Wayne in an early western.” David took up the bidding and works very hard. His energy levels are phenomenal. and clinched the sale. Afterwards, as the highly valued I think his role is as a great motivator of people.” painting rested against the dirty hubcap of a car, Alan Alan was also impressed with the work of the interviewed him about his contribution to the revival Prince’s Trust which has had a great impact on local of the Newlyn School of Painting. Half way through the communities and in changing the lives of many interview, as Alan told me, young people, and is determined to try to help the “David suddenly stopped and said ‘ Hang on a minute, organization carry on its good work. In fact he has I’ve just placed you. You’re Alan Cotton, painter. What proposed an idea for a substantial fund raising project, are you doing this lark for?” which is now at the discussion and planning stage. He It turned out that he had seen a group of Alan’s has also been invited by his friend, the explorer and Hartland paintings, which he very much liked and was adventurer David Hempleman-Adams, who is leading about to approach him. They later met at his gallery an expedition up Everest next April, to join him as and David offered to represent him. Expedition Artist. Alan, who has always wanted to Nowadays they frequently travel the world together paint in high mountains, hopes to get to Advance looking for the perfect view to paint. The view that Base Camp, where there are spectacular views of the no on else has captured before. One trip David didn’t North Face and the Himalayan range and tells me he is go on though was when Alan accompanied His Royal currently in training! Highness, the Prince of Wales to Sri Lanka, Australia, The boy’s come good auntie!!

The C-Class Saloon and Estate. Get more for less and enjoy great savings.

C-Class Saloon.

C-Class Estate.

Buy the C-Class Saloon and we’ll contribute £1,000 towards your choice of optional equipment. As part of this offer, you also get the chance to benefit from competitive finance at

Buy a C-Class Estate for the price of the Saloon and save £1,225 with our compliments . As part of this offer, you also get the chance to benefit from competitive finance at

Typical 6.9% APRΔ.

Free specification upgrade worth £1,000.

Save £1,225 on a C-Class Estate.

Mercedes-Benz of Taunton Toneway, Taunton, TA1 2EJ 0844 822 5299 www.mercedes-benzoftaunton.co.uk Mercedes-Benz of Truro Probus, Truro, TR2 4HX 0844 822 5335 www.mercedes-benzoftruro.co.uk

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the C-Class range: urban 13.8(20.5) - 45.6(6.2), extra urban 29.4(9.6) - 70.6(4.0), combined 20.8(13.6) - 58.9(4.8) CO2 emissions: 316-127 g/km. Models featured are a Mercedes-Benz C 180 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Executive SE Saloon at £26,050.00 on the road including optional metallic paint at £645.00 and a Mercedes-Benz C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Executive SE Estate Automatic at £31,295.00 on the road including optional metallic paint at £645.00 (on the road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). Upgrade offer is provided subject to availability. ΔBased on a Mercedes-Benz Agility agreement over 36 months. Both the upgrade and finance campaigns are available on C-Class Saloon and Estate models ordered (and credit approved if financed) between 4 January and 31 March 2011 and registered by 30 June 2011, excluding model year 802, AMG and special request engines. Terms and conditions apply. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other published offer from the retailer and are subject to availability. Prices correct at time of going to print (01/11 ). Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK7 8ND.

TIME TO BE SMART

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You have to be smart to be noticed

SEE MORE IN OUR IPAD VERSION SEARCH FOR ‘MBSW’ IN ITUNES

They got it wrong, all those autophiles

Mercedes’ impeccable engineering.

who declared the

Model T Ford as the most

Once again, we have a car that appeals not so much

innovative motor car of the twentieth century.

for its performance – the sort that draws out the

At least, that is the opinion of Joe Hurrell

most irritating side of Clarkson – as its unique

who knows about these things. Or the second,

gad-about-town-and-country

the Austin Mini, one of the most iconic

joyous leap from the ordinary. The smart car is

automobiles of the century. What offends him

fun to look at and exhilarating to drive. It has

is that the smart car was not even mentioned. It

all we want – long-legs, economy, comfort and

hit the showrooms in 1998 and was an immediate

effortless parking – all this whilst modestly

hit which made it eligible. “So why wasn’t it

hiding a lot of muscle for its 3-cylinders and

there?” asked Joe, Sales Executive of smart

emissions as green as the West Country.

styling,

its

of Exeter, three times winner of the UK smart You should meet Joe and his stable mate, Tim

Dealer of the year.

Neighbour, also Sales Executive at the unique The Mini and the smart car share other

smart Cube just across the River from the

characteristics:

city centre. I asked Tim what brings in the

affordable price. The mini was not just

customers. “It’s the car. It sells itself”, he

another car, it was classless, charismatic

said. “Every year, we have a convoy of smarts

and cheeky. So is the smart Car. “The Mini had

snaking through the city. 115 this year. The

star quality.” He recalled. “Remember the

customers love it and the public just stand

Italian Job? The 1969 original starring the

in jubilant celebration. It is a lot more

Mini, Michael Caine and Noel Coward – in that

impressive than a cortège of Jags.”

impish

genius

order”. The smart could do that! I heard about the customer database, online To get a feel for character of the smart Car,

services and head office support but I switched

you have to go back to the 1980s. Swatch,

off.

who restored the Swiss reputation as the

matters is that these chaps have an easy charm

world’s

Too technical. And predictable. What

that’s far from pushy and they are “wise enough

two-seater Micro Compact Car 14 years later,

to keep their friendships and the cars they’ve

Mercedes-Benz started manufacturing it. The

sold in constant repair” as Dr Johnson would

name reflects the felicity of its parentage:

describe smart aftercare. I think I’ll take

S(watch) M(ercedes) ART. Swatch’s street-

the black one, The Ice, with its carbon fibre

wise grip of the public pulse coupled with

trim, please, Joe.

leading

watchmakers,

designed

SEAT RESEARCH

Are you sitting comfortably?

he specialists at Mercedes-Benz reckon that sitting can be stressful. Because we humans are designed for running around hunting and not for sitting down, doing so places a strain on our frame and musculature. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world often makes sitting down in a fixed position somewhat inevitable, particularly when we have to drive long distances or spend hours in front of a computer screen.

pitching and rolling of the vehicle. Many vibrations are so small as to be unnoticeable but nevertheless they can still cause headaches, impair some organ functionality and cause breathing difficulties. A good car seat must therefore be able to compensate for these vibrations, as well as providing even pressure distribution to support key areas of the body such as the loins and lumbar areas.

Mercedes-Benz has a dedicated seating research team who work with orthopaedic specialists, physiotherapists and doctors to develop the best possible stress-free seating. Vibration in a car is one of the main contributors to this stress, caused by uneven road surfaces, engine vibration and the

All Mercedes-Benz seats use a mixture of spring cores and varying densities of foam to provide this support, but some vehicles like the S-Class offer an array of options from simple lumbar support to dynamic multicontour seats with built-in massage controlled via the COMAND system.

ot on the heels of its B-Class F-CELL, Mercedes-Benz has begun limited production of the A-Class E-CELL. A run of 500 models, all produced in left-hand drive, has been built and each will be leased to users across Europe, including Germany, France and the Netherlands, as part of ongoing trials. At the moment, there are no plans to bring the A-Class E-CELL to the UK. The A-Class E-CELL is powered by an emission-free 70kW electric motor that provides a range of 124 miles (NEDC) and produces 290Nm of torque to allow the five-door A-Class to go from standstill to 37mph in just

GREEN DRIVING

5.5 seconds. The car is electronically limited to 93mph and its two lithium-ion batteries can be fully charged from a domestic socket in eight hours or three hours from special roadside charging points. Clever use of the A-Class’s innovative ‘sandwich’ construction means the high-tech running gear does not encroach on interior space, the only change to the cabin being a revised cockpit display showing details of the battery charge and range remaining. Little distinguishes the exterior from a conventional A-Class too, the electric version even having its charging point hidden beneath what would be the normal car’s fuel filler cap.

Electric A-Class goes live

They say

“a little knowledge is a dangerous thing...”

... We couldn’t agree more. At Caribtours we know what we’re talking about as we have been arranging luxury Caribbean holidays since 1979. Take Cotton House in Mustique. It’s about us knowing the staff by name; it’s us knowing which of the 17 elegant rooms and suites would best suit your taste; it’s being able to recommend their extra special rum punch because we’ve already tried it and it’s knowing that speaking to Basil at his eponymous bar is the best place on Mustique to pick up the local gossip. If it’s worth knowing, then you can rely on us to have the answer. We have a passion for gorgeous luxury bolt-holes like Cotton House and we want to share it with you. At Caribtours our friendly team has an unbridled enthusiasm for arranging luxury holidays and we just know that you will like the way we do things. 7 nights at Cotton House from just £2,679 per person including flights. Welcome to our Caribbean. 020 7751 0660 / caribtours.co.uk

CARIBTOURS ABTA V6665 / ATOL 2674

AFFORDABLE PACKAGES FOR A QUALITY SERVICE

It’s all about the service Here at Mercedes-Benz South West we know how important after sales service can be which is why we’ve come up with our Mercedes-Benz South West Service Plan to give you the service you deserve and your car the service it needs. A Mercedes-Benz South West Service Plan offers a choice of convenient ways to pay, either up front or on a monthly basis, helping you to budget for the cost of maintenance with affordable fixed price payments. These affordable ways to pay can provide 2 services over 24 months or up to 4 services over 24, 36 or 48 months. The Mercedes-Benz South West Service Plan covers the cost of all manufacturer recommended items required in the service schedule such as brake fluid, filters and spark plugs, and is available on all Mercedes-Benz models up to 7 years old.

Fixed Price Repairs and Fixed Price Servicing are great ways to deal with your vehicle maintenance. You get the benefit of knowing that any work is being carried out by Mercedes-Benz trained technicians using only genuine Mercedes-Benz parts and at a competitive price. So that you know exactly what you’re paying for and what you’ll get, we’ve fixed the price of a Mercedes-Benz Official Workshop service and you’ll be told in advance what work will be carried out. Any extended service items that are required to comply with the manufacturer’s replacement schedule will be advised and invoiced separately, although service measure updates, such as software upgrades, are complimentary. Speak to one of our dedicated Service Team Managers at your local Mercedes-Benz South West showroom to discuss the best Service Plan for you and your Mercedes-Benz.

Introducing Accident Aftercare. Keeping you mobile. Putting you first.

We hope you will never need it, but if you do, our complimentary Accident Aftercare service provides you with: • A Mercedes-Benz replacement vehicle for the duration of the repair process* • Representation in dealing with your insurance claim • Guaranteed repairs within a Mercedes-Benz Approved Bodyshop • Support throughout the whole process 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If you are unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident, you are entitled to have your Mercedes-Benz returned to its pre-accident condition without compromising its safety or integrity. That is part of our After Sales commitment to you.

0845 850 2211 – the only number you need to call after an accident.

Mercedes-Benz South West Matford Park Road, Exeter, EX2 8FD 0845 850 2211 www.mercedes-benzsouthwest.co.uk *Mercedes-Benz replacement vehicle provided where available. Terms and conditions apply, available on request.

Mercedes-Benz SOUTH WEST

Road Raker

ercedes-Benz have been blossoming in the South West. Points West spoke to Managing Director Mike Wickins and Service Manager Adrian Watts to find out why. Mercedes-Benz South West has been established in the South West for 10 years now. The territory extends from Somerset, across Devon to the tip of Lands End. The regional headquarters are in Exeter and there are locations in Plymouth, Truro and Taunton. Points West: It’s a pretty cut-throat time for motor manufacturers right now where does Mercedes-Benz stand on that? Mike: We spend a lot of time training and incentivising our people. Technology is moving very fast. Good training and the cutting–edge equipment put us ahead of all our competitors. We spend a lot of time trying to improve our customer service. A lot of businesses talk about it but we win awards: we were smart Car retailer of the year in 2006, 2007 and 2009; Mercedes-Benz was Retailer of the year in 2008. Adrian: As Service Manager, I make sure customer visits run as smooth as possible. We have five Service Team Managers each with three or four trained technicians under them. The customer will be checkedin and checked out by the same Service Team Manager who will keep the customer informed, ensure the work is finished to the highest standard and be ready on time! Points West: Buying a car is fun but getting it serviced is a pain. What can you do about that? Adrian: We realise that so we try to make the experience as smooth and easy for the customer as possible. We do that three ways:

One. We are a one-stop shop so that you can get an MOT while we service your car, we’ll recharge the airconditioning and do smart repairs (that is, cosmetic repairs to wheels and body work). This includes vans and smart Cars. Two. We can arrange a replacement car. We have a fleet of 25 loan cars and a pool of 20 drivers who offer a collection and delivery subject to availability. It pays to book in advance. Three. We run the Mercedes-Benz South West Service Plans where a monthly subscription covers 2, 3 or 4 services over 24, 36 or 48 months - just £27.50 a month for an A Class or £24.99 for a smart car. For older cars we have the Three Plus Club which entitles you to variety of discounts: half price MOT, discounts on labour, repairs and so on. We are currently introducing a new Service Club with even more benefits for every age of vehicle. Points West: What’s the future for Mercedes-Benz? Mike: The state of the world economy presents challenges. The public want more for their money. They look for quality and economy, cars with a social conscience. Good servicing is part of our response to that need. So is leasing which is becoming ever more popular. We have been at the forefront of innovation since we started 125 years ago. What other brand of car has that heritage? We are constantly coming up with something exciting. The smart Car for example. It’s not just a funky looking car, it’s appeal has no frontiers. Then the Roadster version of the SLS AMG, the current spiritual successor to the famous Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gull wing, will be in showrooms in 2012. Points West: Thank you both. By the way, Mike, what car do you drive? Mike: Me? I drive the ML class. I live on the edge of Dartmoor and it suits me perfectly.

WATCH THIS INTERVIEW ON OUR IPAD VERSION SEARCH FOR ‘MBSW’ IN ITUNES

LINDA HORNER IN CONVERSATION WITH CHARLOTTE GORDON CUMMING

harlotte Gordon Cumming is a singer/ songwriter. Her first album was “Mindwalking”. Her second, “The Brave Songs”, released in January 2011 whilst she was recovering from a near-fatal accident. “I’m a very quiet, spiritual person”. she says. It’s as if her mind is talking to you from a distant, secret place. Her voice is beguiling. She seems fragile, almost vulnerable, but there’s true grit there. It shows in her career. Charlotte Gordon Cumming has a steely determination to succeed, a Delphic insight and, paradoxically, the gift to articulate the way she sees and feels her relationships with people, landscapes and situations. She is resolutely protective of her own talent. In the eighties, she went to New York where she thought her kind of music had a place but after writing the lyrics for various bands like Simply Red, Fine Young Cannibals and Sugar Babes, she found she was travelling down the wrong road. “The whole industry was looking at me in the wrong way so I started writing for myself.” Charlotte’s first success was “Mindwalking” written after she had returned from Africa, her memories resonating with the chant of ancient legends drifting over huge skies and dusty panoramas. This was the first time she was able to produce her own songs. “I wrote a song and then went into a studio and created all the sound and the whole picture of the song. Fantastic!” Here again under these African skies I see stars of rain. Fear and you search and you find all these things in your mind … - African Skies

A Brave Song I had a picture of my young son next to my bed and he gave me the will to fight. Charlotte has a lyrical style which she expresses in her music and its arrangement: the entire production in fact. What we hear is a very pure, uncompromised form of soul. It exposes a very secret side to her something few people have the courage to do. After Mindwalking came The Brave Songs. Her husband, author Nicholas Evans, famous for The Horse Whisperer, was onto his fourth novel, The Brave, about the visceral side America’s Wild West. “I had always had this idea of the synergy between an album and the book. The book had some unpleasant and uncomfortable dialogue in it and I wanted to encapsulate that in the music.” This is her favourite: It’s so hard to sit here with you like this. I don’t know you and you don’t know me. I’m not who I used to be, no. All my intentions, all my beliefs run stray today. - Steal for me The song took half an hour to write. Charlotte was out walking and it all came to her in a flash. She ran home, flew upstairs to her studio and … “I got a rhythm and a bit of guitar and I just sang into the computer. And that was it. Half an hour! That was very special.” Whilst writing The Brave Songs she was caught up in a bizarre accident. Mushroom spores, carried on the wind from Scandinavia, germinated in Scotland where

Extraordinary things come out of extraordinary times. she was on holiday. They looked like ceps but were deadly. After eating them, Charlotte, her husband, Nick, and her brother became critically ill and were taken to Aberdeen hospital. “I had a picture of my young son next to my bed and he gave me the will to fight.” After a week, she was walking down a long corridor and found an old piano. “I sat down, put my fingers on the keys and burst into tears. I knew if I didn’t push, I would never play again”. All three survived thanks to the care of the doctors and nursing staff at the hospital. Despite moments debilitating collapse, she drove herself to complete the project. All three are on dialysis and have donors lined up for kidney transplants this year.

“Extraordinary things come out of extraordinary times. I hope people will read my husband’s book and listen to my album because there’s no doubt that what happened to us is in that book and in those songs.” Like guardians to my soul, when the darkness takes me like a virus unchecked, do I lower my head in surrender or do I fight like a warrior possessed? - Scream

iPad

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AND LISTEN TO CHARLOTTES ALBUM ON THE IPAD VERSION OF MBSW SEARCH FOR ‘MBSW’ IN ITUNES

Only, wouldn’t it be great, for a change,

all-encompassing that, actually, even

if you weren’t at home? Wouldn’t it

if you never meant to melt, you’d be

be great, instead, to wake up to 180

powerless to resist?

degrees sea and sky? In a bed so vast, with food so fresh and beautiful, surf so close, atmosphere so relaxed, a spa so revitalising and comfort so

It would feel like a dream come true. It would feel like St Moritz Hotel.

Agility Finance With ever-increasing demands on our finances, Agility Finance makes it even simpler to drive a MercedesBenz whilst letting you keep your options open right up to the end of your contract. The future value of the vehicle is guaranteed based on your specification and annual mileage, so after the agreed term you can choose from one of three options, pay the pre-agreed Optional Purchase Payment, return it (subject to mileage and condition) leaving you free to take out another contract. The third option is to partexchange your vehicle and any equity can be used towards the deposit for a new one. What this means is that you can change vehicles more often, even during an agreement. In addition you can enhance the fixed-cost motoring this provides by adding a fixed-price service contract, paid for either monthly or as a one-off payment. Interest rates are fixed for the period and the finance, which is supplied by the Bank of MercedesBenz, is not only protected by the consumer credit act but is also secured against the vehicle. For more information please call your local Business Manager to discuss how you could benefit from Agility Finance. Mercedes-Benz of Taunton Mercedes-Benz of Exeter Mercedes-Benz of Plymouth Mercedes-Benz of Truro

01823 447555 01392 822700 01752 720199 01872 520900

Powered up Mercedes-Benz has heightened the appeal of the S-Class with the introduction of a trio of new engines – the diesel S 350 BlueTEC and the petrol S 350 BlueEFFICIENCY and S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY. Using AdBlue® emission control that converts up to 80 per cent of nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water, the 2,987cc, 258hp engine of the S 350 BlueTEC is one of the world’s cleanest diesels. At only 177g/ km CO2 the S 350 BlueTEC emits 11 per cent less CO2 than its predecessor yet has 10 per cent more hp and 15 per cent more torque at 620Nm. BlueDirect technology with spay-guided direct petrol injection and multi-spark ignition features in the S 350 BlueEFFICIENCY and S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY, complementing such efficiency enhancing measures as the ECO start/stop function, load-controlled oil pump and lower rolling resistance tyres. Both are more economical and more powerful than their predecessors. For example, the V6 S 350 BlueEFFICIENCY has a fuel consumption figure of up to 24 per cent lower and the S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY has a 32 per cent improvement in torque to 700Nm with a corresponding decrease in fuel consumption by as much as 19 per cent. The new 5.5-litre Biturbo S 63 AMG is even more efficient than the previous model too, emitting 30 per cent less CO2.

Extra special Get the New Year off to a stylish start with the new, bumper 2011 Mercedes-Benz Collection. Packed with eight extensive ranges of superb gifts and stunning lifestyle accessories, the Collection features something for everyone to suit all budgets and all tastes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whether they are an existing Mercedes-Benz owner or simply a fan of the brand. Here is just a small selection of some of the new items now available â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all of which reflect the quality and style you would expect from Mercedes-Benz. Money matters : Made from 100 per cent leather, this luxury wallet has plenty of features to keep your finances under control including two note sections, six credit card slots and a coin compartment. Simply sparkling : This gift will definitely hold the key for the style-conscious. Including the Mercedes-Benz star logo trimmed with crystallized Swarovski elements, this Kiev key ring is one of many available within the Collection. Bags of style : This high quality shoulder bag is sure to carry plenty of favour and is certainly very accommodating with inside features including a zipped pocket, mobile phone pocket and hook for keys. Time gentleman please : Any man would be delighted to make time for this smart business watch which has a metal bracelet strap and hardened mineral crystal glass face with anti-reflective coating on one side. Fore-midable : This cavernous golf bag is practically perfect and includes helpful features such as club dividers, a cool compartment, pocket for valuables, rain hood, putter well and umbrella holder. Small wonder : This replica SLS AMG (scale 1:18) is a genuine supermodel in every respect and is also available in Obsidian Black and Iridium Silver as well as AMG Monza Grey shown. Order items from the 2011 Mercedes-Benz Collection now at your local Retailer, where you can also pick up a brochure.

Approved Used Cars

Exclusive Sales Event.

Privilege Preview. Thursday 20th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tuesday 25th January. As a highly valued customer of Mercedes-Benz South West, we would like to offer you a unique opportunity to preview the Approved Used Mercedes-Benz that are featuring in our Exclusive Sale Event before its starts on Wednesday 26th January. This unique opportunity, which is available to selected customers only, will take place at each of our retailers from Thursday 20th to Tuesday 25th January.

It will provide you with the perfect chance to enjoy a leisurely look at any cars in which you may be interested and, of course, reserve them for purchase before the event opens to the general public. If you purchase during the event you will benefit from price reductions as well as two years warranty on our range of models. We hope that you can attend, however if you are unable to make it we would be delighted to see you at the Exclusive Sales Event that starts on Wednesday 26th January.

For further Event and Approved Used car details, call or visit your local retailer. Mercedes-Benz of Exeter Matford Park Road, Exeter, EX2 8FD 0844 822 5227 www.mercedes-benzofexeter.co.uk Mercedes-Benz of Plymouth Tavistock Road, Derriford, PL6 8BB 0844 822 5270 www.mercedes-benzofplymouth.co.uk

Mercedes-Benz of Taunton Toneway, Taunton, TA1 2EJ 0844 822 5304 www.mercedes-benzoftaunton.co.uk Mercedes-Benz of Truro Probus, Truro, TR2 4HX 0844 822 5340 www.mercedes-benzoftruro.co.uk