Style Magazine - Spring 2008, Daily Post

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style complimentary

The ultimate lifestyle guide for North Wales Spring 08

Bush babe Jungle Cerys gets the Island rocking for St David's Day

Spring style We bring you the latest fashions fresh from the catwalk

Win a wedding Find out how to win the day of your dreams health and beauty • fashion • property • motors • home • food and drink

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Contents AT last, spring is starting to tentatively poke her head through the clouds and we can say goodbye to the short days and long dark nights, awaken from hibernation and explore our surroundings again.

As the sunlight slowly starts to seep back into our homes, we look at things in a new light.

Perhaps your home needs brightening up a bit? Our magazine has plenty of inspiration on how to freshen up your pad (pages 4-5) and we manage to glean some top tips from interior designer, Julie Bagnall (page 9).

Moving outside, it’s time to give the garden some well deserved attention and we give some ideas of what you should be doing now to make them glorious in time for summer (pages 12-14).

But don’t forget to give yourself some TLC too. Read our tips on health and beauty

including an interview with fitness expert, Iona Roberts (page 15) and a few hints on how to hide those little imperfections (page 21) - not that we’re saying you have any, of course!

And once you’re feeling and looking great, it’s time to treat yourself to some new outfits.

On page 17, we outline the latest fashions for spring 2008, as well as advising which styles suit which shapes (pages 18-19).

And don’t forget it’s Mother’s Day this month. Check out our gift ideas on page 16.

Soon we will have Easter to look forward to - what a brilliant excuse for indulging in vats of chocolate! It’s also a great time to have fun with the kids. They will love getting covered in sweet stuff in the kitchen and while you’re there, why not have a go at our recipe for simnel cake on pages 24-25?

We have some suggestions for some ideal wines to wash down your Easter feasts with too as Paul Baker chats to the wine buffs at Gwin Llyn Wines (page 23).

And don’t worry about the calories, you can walk it off with some great walks in North Wales and we have some brilliant ideas of what to do and where to go over the Easter holidays (page 31), as well as a round up of St David’s Day celebrations featuring homegrown Welsh talent including Cerys Matthews.

And if you feel like a splurge, we have a round up of the latest exclusive new developments, not forgetting swanky new reg motors (pages 32-24).

You name it - we’ve got it covered - happy spring!

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Editor: Michelle Rushton michelle.rushton@liverpool.com Writers: Paul Baker, Sarah Hooley, Katie McLoughlin, Michelle Rushton, Emma Thompson, Charlene Ugbode Design: Bryan Mottram, Andrew Lloyd-Jones, John Ferry, Deiniol Jones Advertising manager Sharon Doleman Advertising executive Paul Hughes 01492 574429 Published by: Trinity Mirror North Wales Ltd, Vale Road, Llandudno Junction, Ll31 9ZD Printed by Colourprint, TMP, Cardiff style spring 08

04-11

Homes

12-14

Gardening

15-21

Health, beauty & fashion

22-25

Food and drink

26-27

Win a wedding

28-31

Out and about

32-33

Property

34

Motors 03

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Spring fresh WITH the winter blues leaving us Emma Thompson finds out how to add a little colour to your home and take advantage of the spring time tones.

YOU don’t have to do any drastic changes to your house to get it looking brighter, a few accessories are sure to have you ready for the new season ahead.

Spring trends are focusing on fresh clean colours with tones of green making a big impact for home styles. Whether it’s in the living room or kitchen accessories, green is here this year to accompany other earthy tones we’ve come to love over the last couple of years, such as deep browns and enlightening cream shades.

It’s not just colours that we’re keeping natural, it’s now the fabrics and the materials our

furniture is made from that we want natural too.

From Welsh wool and hand-made pottery, slate, glass and tapestry, trends this spring are focusing on what we have around us and using it to its full potential.

If you’re looking to add an extra dose of colour to your room then red is another great shade that you’ll see plenty of, from patterns and vases, cushions and art work it will add a spark of life to your room for those brighter days.

Add a little colour to your room with this selection of handmade vases from Svaja, Scarlet Orchid tall vase,bowl and short vase. ➤

➤

We’ll see plenty of fresh, natural tones this spring, such as this selection of accessories from Next.

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Inject some summer colour into your room with these patterned blinds from Sunway Blinds.

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Add a little twist to your room with this candle holder from Svaja.

➤

Bring spring tones indoors with accessories from Next in shades of green.

Made from natural vine strands, this shaped vase from Object Havoc will look great in any room.

➤ style spring 08

Abaca’s luxury organic divan sets are made to the highest quality, handmade and tufted, they are wrapped in four layers of luxurious organic Welsh wool and covered in 100% organic cotton.

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Spring clean Sarah Hooley caught up with Julie Bagnall, from Life Style interior design company to get some top tips on giving your home a make-over....

Interior designer, Julie Bagnall, from Life Style interior design company relaxing at home in her refurbished windmill.

SURE as snowdrops beginning to bloom and the first lambs being born, spring is almost here and with it comes the natural desire to spruce up your home and finish those odd jobs that you’ve been putting off for months.

Often a daunting task, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed with just how much needs doing, but with professional advice from talented interior designer, Julie Bagnall, you’ll have all the inside knowledge to up-date your home without the hassle.

Julie, who currently lives just outside of

Penrhyn Bay in a stunning, converted windmill - recently refurbished by her own fair hands boasts years of experience in both interior design and house sales, so is perfectly placed to offer expert advice if you’re thinking of redecorating your home this spring.

But before you go rushing out to your local DIY store or digging out those old paint brushes, Julie warns that the key to any good make over is preparation: "The first thing anyone thinking of giving their home a spring clean and make-over should do is take a good look at the room they want to change and ask themselves why? Does the room look tired? Is there no space? Then work from there.

"It could just be new storage that you need, so it’s worth playing around with furniture and seeing what improvements you can make with the layout first. Alternatively, if you’ve had the same decor for a couple of years and fancy a change, look at some of your favourite items within the home and use them for inspiration."

She added: "It’s also advisable to store any breakables and clear out rooms completely if possible. Not only does this make decorating so much easier, but it’s also an ideal time to sort out what you should keep and what can be recycled."

As for Julie’s inside tips on what are set to be the hottest trends for 2008, she believes that it’s all about making a statement. She explains: "Floral prints are still very popular at the moment, and using geometric designs or large stencils with embellished flowers along one feature wall will create a really striking effect."

What’s more, Julie passionately believes that you don’t have to have a big budget to make your home look good. She advised: "One of the best make-overs I’ve ever done for a client was a small lounge, where we were on a really tight budget. The décor was very dark, the furniture was worn and the carpet had seen better days, but even though there were limited funds we managed to do a fantastic job. The client was so pleased with the result, and said that she would now be able to spend much more time in the room, as before she had found it quite depressing. It just goes to show that all you really need is little imagination and the right colours."

Make sure you prepare before getting started with the decorating.

Here are Julie’s top five tips to 'cheat' your way to a cheap, yet chic looking home: 1) De-clutter - it’s amazing what a difference sorting out belongings can make.

2) Simple décor - try to keep the same colours running through the main areas of the house to achieve an appearance of fluidity.

3) Striking lighting - it should pick out such items as pictures, as well as being subtle in living areas such as the lounge and bedroom.

4) Clean and tidy - tidying things away gives an air of space.

Sparkling greys and large stencil patterns are predicted to be a huge trend for this year. Pic courtesy of Crown style spring 08

5) Accessories - use the same colour scheme for accessories, cushions and throws to achieve a stylish feel to any room.

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Spruce up for spring Katie McLoughlin sows the seeds of success for a spring garden that’s bursting with vitality...

FROM new fashions to new life, spring is definitely a time for out with the old and in with the new.

So, as temperatures begin to rise and the first buds of spring tentatively emerge from the ground, now’s the time to prepare your garden for summer.

For a luscious horticultural haven that’s bursting with vivaciously bright colours all season long, it’s vital to give your garden some much-needed tender loving care.

Spring is the time to roll up your sleeves and dig in, before enjoying the fruits of your labour in summer, so kick-start your springtime gardening by cutting back dead stems, pruning weak or damaged branches,

mowing the lawn on dry days and cultivating and preparing the soil with a general purpose fertiliser.

Gardening at this time of year is also a great opportunity to do something together as a family, so why not get your children involved with fun jobs like planting seeds, herbs or bulbs?

However you plan to make your garden grow this spring, these top tips from Leigh Hunt, a horticultural adviser for the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), are sure to make your garden blooming marvellous in no time:

1. Keep weeds under control.

2. Apply at least a 5cm layer mulch of garden compost, manure or bark to prevent the weeds regrowing in summer.

3. Sow hardy annuals and herb seeds directly into prepared beds and borders.

4. Feed hungry shrubs and roses with a granular fertiliser, such as Growmore.

5. Sow new lawns and repair bare patches in existing ones.

6. Plant summer-flowering bulbs such as gladioli.

7. Mow the lawn on dry days (if needed).

8. Open the greenhouse or conservatory doors and vents on warm days.

9. Check containers regularly and water them before they dry out.

10. Protect new spring shoots from slugs

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Pest control THE rise in temperatures heralded by spring breathes new life not only into your greenery, but also into pesky pests, such as slugs and snails, which can wreak havoc amongst foliage, flowers and seedlings.

So to help you beat slugs and snails in your garden, which were the UK’s most troublesome garden pest of 2007, RHS entomologist, Andrew Salisbury, offers the following advice:

1. Key planter

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1. Take care with your planting. Use plants such as slug resistant potato varieties, fuchsias and lavenders that are less likely to be eaten by slugs.

2. Transplant sturdy plantlets that are able to withstand some slug damage.

predators should be encouraged in gardens.

5. Accept some damage and don't expect to be totally slug free! Slugs are often too numerous to be totally eradicated.

3. Collect slugs after dark on mild, damp evenings. Dispatch the collected slugs in a bucket of salty water.

4. Encourage wildlife: Some birds, frogs, toads, hedgehogs, slow-worms and ground beetles eat slugs and these

3. Tea light lanterns 7. Pink portable BBQ

2. Pretty useful gardening tools

4. Garden furniture

3. Herb potholders

3. Shabby-chic birdhouse

STYLE-conscious accessories to make your garden glow...

1. Funky planters are a great way to smarten up any garden. This quirky ‘Key’ planter, £90 by Haddonstone (www.haddonstone.co.uk), features art deco inspired geometric patterns.

2. If the sight of a rusty spade makes your style barometer cringe, try these divinely girly ‘Pretty Useful Garden Tools’ £19.99 from The Contemporary Home (www.thecontemporaryhome.co.uk).

3. Accessories such as these brightly coloured tea light lanterns, £10 each by Edge Company

style spring 08

(www.edgecompany.co.uk), are a cheap but chic way to transform your garden into a stylish spring sanctuary.

youngsters to grow herbs outside or on the kitchen windowsill?

4. Make the most of your outdoor space with contemporary styled garden furniture, like this table, four chairs and parasol set, £120 from Matalan’s spring summer 08 home collection (www.matalan.co.uk).

6. This white shabby-chic bird house is great for boosting your style credentials whilst creating a welcoming wildlife habitat in your garden. £14.99 from The Contemporary Home (www.thecontemporaryhome.co.uk).

5. These white daisy herb potholders, £7.50 for a set of three by Edge Company (www.edgecompany.co.uk), are kitsch and fun enough to appeal to children and adults alike - why not encourage your

7. It’s never too early in the year for a barbecue, so make the most of warmer temperatures with this cute pink portable barrel barbecue, £17.99 from www.drinkstuff.com.

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A splash of colour Charlene Ugbode helps you to make the most of beautiful bulbs this spring.

NOW that the sun is finally beginning to peer through the clouds, it’s time to clear out the shed and dig out your trowels, as spring time has finally arrived.

Spring can welcome an abundance of beautiful, natural treats including onions and shallots, and although daffodils are the seasonal favourite, there are lots of other bulbs that are perfect for this time of the year.

In general, you can start planting bulbs at the beginning of spring, but if the weather is still a little too cold then it is probably best to wait until the end of March.

Gladiolus are great for rockeries and will add plenty of colour to any garden.

Make sure that you plant them between March and June, for bright and beautiful flowers up until September.

Begonias will make your pots look stunning on any patio area. They can produce a variety of colours from deep purples to dashing reds, and have a delicate fragrance to sweeten up your outdoor entertaining space.

So make the most of your garden this spring, it will be well worth it when you can enjoy summer parties surrounded by beautiful flowers.

Beautiful bouquets Creating a bouquet for a table centrepiece or window sill is easier than it sounds, especially in spring time when blooming flowers are plentiful and they make great Mother's Day gifts if you are on a budget.

You can use whichever flowers take your fancy, but here are just a few suggestions: *Zantedeshia (aurum lily) has a bright yellow flower for a bold bouquet. *Agapanthusa, otherwise known as lily of the Nile, is blue in colour and has a delicate scent. *Dicentra, known as white alba, will help to create the perfect bunch, and all flowers combined will look radiant. *When all flowers are cut to the right length add some green foliage. *Use Viburnum Tinus on the inside of the bouquet and New Zealand Flax around the outside to create the perfect bunch.

To finish, take two different colours of ribbon and wrap them around the stems to hold them together, and, voila - you have a stunning bouquet for spring time vases!

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Shape up Charlene Ugbode seeks expert advice on how to beat the battle of the bulge.

NOW that spring time treats are poking their nutritious heads from the ground, it's a good time to start honing your summer holiday bikini body.

Iona Roberts is a health, fitness and nutrition expert who recently won the Welsh Fitness Instructor Award for 2007, and has some excellent advice for people of all shapes and sizes on how to achieve a super lean body.

Iona says that all women need to lose weight is a simple formula: "Put less in and more out!"

And she believes that the reason a lot of diets fail is because people starve themselves and then later binge because blood sugar levels drop. Does this ring a bell?

If so, Iona advises: "The best thing to do is to eat five or six small meals of 250 to 300 calories a day. This way you will reduce your calorie intake to around 1,500 a day, losing around 2lbs a week."

It may seem too good to be true but if you eat a small amount regularly you wont get those hunger pangs that make you gorge on anything with chocolate.

With regards to exercise, Iona recommends a combination of cardio training and muscle work to give you that lean and defined shape.

She says: "It may sound difficult but the truth is, the more often you exercise, the faster you will see results."

If you’re a beginner, try walking the dog in the morning before work for a good 40 minutes, getting your heart rate up, and including some hills in your walk. Then at night time, try some resistance or weight training with a friend or a personal trainer.

Classes are also a great way to beat the battle of the bulge and will help to keep you motivated.

Circuit training is a fantastic all around body workout, recommended by Iona, so if you’re short of time then this will be perfect for both cardiovascular and muscle resistance training in half of the time.

So to look and feel great inside and out, kick out the fatty food and dig out those old trainers for a stunning look in time for summer.

For more great advice about health and fitness give Iona a call on 07887 550801. style spring 08

Iona Roberts who recently won the Welsh Fitness Instructor Award for 2007 s t y l e s u m m e r 15

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Mum’s the word Katie McLoughlin finds the best ways to show you care this Mother’s Day. TAKING place on March 2 this year, Mother’s Day is a time of celebration, comemmoration, and family gatherings.

Most people use this special day to show their nearest and dearest how much they care, but many people don’t know the origins of Mothering Sunday.

According to history books, centuries ago it was important for people who were working away from home to return to worship in their ‘mother church’ (usually the nearest cathedral or large church to their home) at least once a year.

This led to children - who often worked away as domestic servants or apprentices from as young as 10-yearsold - to be given the day off to visit their family, with most bringing small gifts like wild flowers or simnel cake to give to their mum as a token of their love and appreciation.

Today, Mother’s Day has become a time to share laughs, memories and good food, as we celebrate the role of mums everywhere by giving gifts and spending much-needed time together as a family.

Whether you want to indulge your mum with a revitalising pamper day at a luxurious spa, treat her to a VIP shopping experience, or spark her creativity with a trip to one of the region’s many oriels - North Wales is bursting with places to visit and things to do to show your mum just how much she means to you.

Equally, if you want to treat your mum to an afternoon of fine dining, then the region has a veritable array of top eateries where you can enjoy the company of those you treasure most.

Whether you’re looking for a luxury family meal or a more relaxed dining experience, or you simply want to keep mum out of the kitchen on her special day by treating her to a scrumptious Sunday lunch the region has plenty of dining venues to choose from.

However you plan to spend this March 2, make it a Mother’s Day to remember with our selection of six of the best gift ideas: 16

1. A beautiful bouquet of flowers bursting with vivid spring colours is sure to brighten any mum's special day.

4. Any mum will treasure a special family photo in a fabulous frame, like this one £20 from Debenham's vintage collection. For stockists call 0844 561616.

2. Chocaholic mums will adore these quirky chocolate candles, £5.99 for a set of three from www.thecontemporaryhome.co.uk

5. Every woman loves a bit of arm candy so try treating mum to a stylish bag, like this Cario gem clutch, £28 from Accessorize's spring/summer 2008 collection. For stockist information visit www.accessorize.co.uk

3. Help your mum to relax, unwind and de-stress with a revitalising pamper day in one of North Wales' many health and beauty spas.

6. Pamper your mum with a sumptuous moisturiser, like this velevty rich Wheat and Honey Anti-Aging Cream, £21 by Korres. For stockists visit www.korres.com.

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Catwalk cool

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Chunky wood bangle, £8, from Accessorize’s spring summer 08 collection.

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THE bold and the beautiful - no it’s not the name of a cliche daytime soap, but the ethos of spring summer fashion 2008.

From acid brights to floaty chiffon, fashion this season is decidedly eclectic - with a neverending array of trends emerging from the catwalks, the emphasis is firmly on individuality, so go on, mix it up a little with our step-by-step guide to spring’s key looks:

7. Acid brights - add some heat to your summer palette with a statement coloured piece, think acid yellow, hot pink or electric blue.

8. Togas - try sophisticated toga-inspired, one shoulder dresses for an elegant evening look.

➤

Breathe new life into your wardrobe with Katie McLoughlin’s guide to the hottest spring trends.

1. Traveller - whether you give a nod to 70s hippy chic with a modern twist on tie-dye, or you plump for tribal inspired chunky jewellery, brightly coloured Indian saris, African beading, bold ethnic patterns or an Arabic-style tassled scarf, this look is all about ethnic chic.

Tier dirndl skirt £8 worn with bib stripe blouse £8 and chunky link multirow necklace £4.

Skirt in store now, blouse in store mid January from the Primark spring 2008 collection.

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2. Retro - from nautical style striped tops and high waist shorts, to 20s tea dresses or 50s Americana preppy pieces in block colour, retro reigns supreme this season.

Nautical: Striped turnback tee-shirt, £4 from Primark spring 2008 collection.

Printed scarf with tassels, £5 from Primark’s spring 2008 collection.

3. Romance - floaty dresses and tops in soft, luscious fabrics like organza, chiffon, tulle and silk, mixed with frills and ruffles - this look epitomises feminity, try combining a pretty pussy bow blouse with a waist cinching belt and the seasons hottest skirt shape, the dirndl skirt - a full skirt which gives the impression of curves.

➤

4. Prints galore - from ethnic inspired prints, to stars and floral patterns, prints are one of the most important trends of the season.

Remember to keep it simple though, balancing say a floral print maxi dress with simple accessories.

Polka dot print blouse, £18 from New Look's spring summer 08 collection.

Ezra 02 jumpsuit from Dorothy Perkins spring summer 08 collection.

Photo courtesy of Arcadia.

5. Jumpsuits - most major designers showed a jumpsuit of some form this season, try a parachute silk full length version, or opt for a short playsuit for a more relaxed summer look.

6. Trousers - the season’s new look trousers are volumous around the top, with tapered ends. However, given their unflattering cut and similarity to 90s rapper MC Hammer’s trademark balloon pants, this trend may not catch on.

➤ Print belted dress, £38 from Next’s spring summer 2008 collection.

➤ style spring 08

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Sizing it up Sarah Hooley figures out what looks great whatever your shape.

FASHION can be a fickle creature, and as the

Stay away from: Wearing big/bold prints on

shops fill up with this spring and summers’

the bottom half of your body, as well as

new lines it can be difficult to know where to

tapered, harem trousers and pale denim which

start and what will suit you and your body.

will only add to make your hips look wider.

But don’t worry - with a vast array of gorgeous garments there’s something to flatter every curve, so from apple and

Apples

pear shapes to squares, triangles

What looks best: Hippy/ethinic

and perfect hour glasses, we’ll help

styles and bright coloured tunic

you discover how to tailor this

tops with a wide open neckline

season’s hottest looks for your

look great on apple shaped ladies,

body.

and fitted tops that tuck in or tie under your chest to create the illusion of a high waist are also a

Pears

must have. For added glamour,

What looks best: This

accessorise outfits with delicate

seasons’ 50s Americana-

wedges.

style full skirts are perfectly suited to pears.

Stay away from: Tight 50s style

Skimming thighs and

tops tucked into skirts, large

emphasising waists, opt

‘tent-like’ t-shirts and any tops

for a knee length

with ruffles on that add more

version and team up

bulk to your middle.

Combine this wide necked floral dress and waistcoast to achieve a perfect look for apples. Clothes from Next, denim waistcoat, £25, flower print sundress, £28.

with a pair of heeled shoes and top that broadens the upper body. Structured ethnic style jackets or tops, floral

Hourglasses What looks best: Those lucky enough to have been blessed with an hourglass

shirts, bold

figure can get away with

prints and

most styles, and from

ruffles will

figure hugging dresses

also help to

with ruffles at the

balance your shape.

neck, to maxi and toga dresses cinched in with a belt, most styles

Triangles, pears and hourglasses will all look great in this brightly coloured dress from Oasis, spring/summer collection 2008.

18

will work for you this season.

For the more daring,

Hourglasses will look fabulous in this Marilyn Monroe-esque dress from Oasis' spring summer 2008 collection. style spring 08

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Triangles

Rulers

What looks best: Like many other

What looks best: All about creating curves,

shapes, the classic full skirt is a

use this season’s love for retro full skirts to

hit with ‘triangles’. Ideal for

make the most of your figure. Plus, thanks

adding shape they work

to their slim, boyish figure, ‘rulers’ can also

perfectly to

make the most of this season’s trends in

balance out

pale denim, romantic 1920s style dresses,

those broad

and bright, bold prints.

shoulders, as do

Stay away from: Straight dresses that

dresses

emphasis your lack of curves, together

flared at the

with cropped tops that make you appear longer.

bottom and slim strapped tops.

Stay away from: Tops that fail to give you any shape, as well as floaty This full skirt and short blouse, nipped in with belt, promises to flatter everyone from pears, hourglasses, and triangles to rulers.

Outfit is from Principles, skirt priced at £45, blouse £35, black peep toe shoes £60.

dresses.

you could even try retro sailor style, highwaisted shorts with a tucked in top to emphasise those curvaceous derrières.

Stay away from: ‘Baggy’ style clothes that hide your small waist or make thighs bigger, creating a ‘round’ appearance.

With their waifish figures, 'rulers' will look great in this season's trend of pale denim and sheer materials. Outfit from Dorothy Perkins.

This beautiful dress from Kaliko combines thin staps with a slightly flared skirt to balance out any triangle perfectly.

Dress from Kaliko's spring/summer 2008 range. style spring 08

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Cream of the crop Charlene Ugbode combs through the latest sensational spring time hair styles WINTER’S over and spring is here so it’s time for a head turning hair style, that will give you a sensational look for the new season.

A new season is always a fantastic time to get a new hairdo. For winter you probably went for a deep, dark and sultry look, so for spring its time to brighten up your hair colour and get a sassy style that will have you shimmering right through until summer is here.

There are plenty of stylish salons for both men and women in North Wales, so there is no excuse to ignore those split ends or out of control frizz.

This spring is introducing a wealth of popular styles, so whether you want a cut, colour or some sensational hair extensions, you won’t have to go far to find what you’re looking for.

Short styles seem to be a favourite with celebs this year, and we have the likes of R&B singer Rihanna and style icon Kate Moss sporting almost boyish looks, that they pull off effortlessly.

For those of you who want to keep a longer style then try some giant curls for a wavy, care free style.

Whatever style you’re looking for, visit your local salon to see if they can create a brand new you for spring.

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Face up to it Emma Thompson pays attention to those niggly problem areas.

WE all try to look our best with many of us enjoying a daily cosmetic and beauty regime, but maybe you have a little imperfection that needs a little attention?

Whether its acne, red veins, age spots, birthmarks or excessive facial hair, nowadays there are a number of treatments and clinics that can help you to banish those troublesome areas.

There are many procedures on the market so visit your local clinics and speak to fully qualified practitioners before undergoing any treatment and find out which method will suit you best.

Just one way to treat acne, sun damage and age spots is with a chemical skin peel, which comes in different strengths. Many skin problems are associated with an excessive build up of dead skin cells, which make the skin thick and dull, usually clogging the pores.

A light chemical peel gives strong dermal stimulation leaving you with a radiant glow, while a medium chemical peel with a course of four should improve the appearance of acne considerably. It will rejuvenate and tighten the skin, although light skin flaking can occur after

a couple of days.

The deep chemical peel is one of the strongest available and is perfect for localised age spots on the face and hands.

Another way to treat age spots, sun damage, facial thread veins, rosacea and birthmarks is with Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), a technology that helps restore the skin’s youthful appearance through a process called Photorejuvenation. This dynamic treatment generates intense pulsed light to safely reduce the melanin in the skin, so that pigmented lesions fade and slowly disappear.

Another form of technology to treat acne, blemishes, pigmentation and aged hands is Caci treatments, which encourages rapid healing and skin regeneration. It uses an ultrasound to deep peel, and laser to stimulate tissue repair, fading pigmentation and smoothing sun damaged skin.

IPL and laser treatments can also be used to remove thread veins on the face, body and legs. Laser procedures will remove fine and large thread veins quickly and effectively with usually only three to five sessions needed to leave your skin feeling smooth and blemish free.

Sclerotheraphy is also effective in removing thread veins from the body and legs, taking only 30-40 minutes a fine needle injects a solution into the vein and over a course of treatments disappears completely.

So, if you have any little imperfections don’t let them get you down, with a non-surgical procedure - they could be a distant memory!

1. With relatively simple non-surgical proceedures you can irradicate your blemishes from acne and age spots to facial thread veins.

2. Give yourself a confidence boost, with great technology to treat thread veins you'll soon have your legs back on show. stylespring 08

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Revellers at last year's Celtic Winter Fayre in Llandudno

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Raise a glass Paul Baker uncorks a wine-buffs Paradise - in Pwllheli!

WINE LOVERS have been travelling from as far afield as Shropshire in England just to seek out one particular family store located in Pwllheli.

The business in question is Gwin Llŷn Wines and it is fast building a reputation as one of the best independent wine and beer specialists in North Wales.

The store has been trading for almost 18 months now and owner Dean Pritchard believes its location in the pleasant market town of Pwllheli is a major selling point.

Dean and his wife Margaret live locally and were impressed by the growing number of independent specialist shops springing up in the town. In making the decision to buy their own wine store, the couple took what they described as "a leap of faith" and opened their self-styled "family wine ‘boutique’ merchant".

Now, a year and a half down the line, the leap has paid off, with Gwin Llŷn Wines proving a highly successful and extremely well regarded supplier of quality wines, beers and spirits.

Visitors to Pwllheli will find the shop on Y Maes and, once inside, it immediately feels welcoming and relaxing, not the dark stuffy image that often typifies wine stores.

As Dean explained: "The shop is light, bright and appealing not only to the wine enthusiast but also to those new to wine who appreciate the choice and advice on hand. Customers can while away the time reading my hand-written tasting notes which are attached to the wine bottles."

Funnily enough, one of the most popular services provided for customers of this wine store with a difference is actually one aimed at children. The colouring table allows parents the opportunity to browse and buy while their children are kept busy, happily colouring away.

Very cunning!

Product-wise, Gwin Llŷnʼs range is certainly

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impressive – and we’re not talking about the same old wines and beers you’ll see in your local supermarket. Dean sources quality products from around the world.

There are wines like Cloudy Bay from New Zealand, Jim Barry from Australia and Chateau Musar all the way from Lebanon. If you’re a bit of a beer connoisseur then you’ve come to the right place, as you’ll find

which Dean is rather taken with.

Dean is assisted in the store by his mother, Lynne Peters, while wife Margaret helps out at weekends. So if you want any advice on wine choices, do just ask. In fact, if you’re planning a dinner party Dean says to bring in your menu and he’ll happily recommend wine or beer to complement each course.

During a visit to Gwin Llŷn Wines, you may not

traditional Belgian beers, bottle conditioned real ales and even a speciality French Champagne lager. There’s also a great selection of Champagnes and malt whiskeys.

Importantly, though, Dean is championing locally made alcoholic products too. And with the likes of the Purple Moose Brewery at Porthmadog only about 12 miles away, Dean agrees it would be ridiculous not to make use of such a splendid local supplier. The Pen-lon brewery at Ceredigion also supplies quality local beers to the boutique, but there’s more than just local ales available in-store.

Worthenbury Wines of Wrexham offer an excellent selection of Welsh-produced wines with their sparkling varieties in particular proving popular, selling out at Christmas.

There are Welsh ciders and some great spirits too, with Toffoc Vodka coming in from Anglesey and the Penderyn range of Welsh spirits including their new peated malt whisky

get the "buy one, get one free" offers of the big supermarkets, but you will get excellent bin end promotions, an unsurpassed choice of wines, spirits and beers, free friendly advice and excellent customer service.

Deliveries are undertaken throughout the Llyn Peninsula and customers travelling to their holiday accommodation can ring ahead with an order which will, if necessary, be chilled ready for collection.

What more could you ask for? Commitment to service, choice, quality and Welsh produce – it’s all there! In fact, I’m so tempted by the Welsh whisky, I think I might go and book myself a little spring break somewhere near Pwllheli...

You can find Gwin Llŷn Wines at Y Maes, Pwllheli, Gwynedd.

Tel: 01758 701004; fax: 01758 701273; or email: gwinllynwines@btconnect.com.

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Easter feasts Charlene Ugbode looks forward to plenty of Easter treats EASTER is a great opportunity for kids to spend some time with parents in the kitchen, baking chocolate rice crispy cakes, and generally getting covered in sweet stuff.

Well this Easter you can introduce a few different treats to the menu, and we have a fantastic selection of snacks, cakes and meals for you and your little ones to enjoy.

If you gave up chocolate for Lent, then now is the time to put it back on your shopping list, and lots of it too. Add a couple of chocolate eggs to the list, as well as a few seasonal favourites to give yourself a truly indulgent Easter.

If you have children then this holiday has to include some fun recipes, but there are plenty of other Easter dishes that parents can also enjoy.

Fresh fish is a popular choice, generally eaten on Good Friday, and will probably be the only healthy meal that many will enjoy, even if it is covered in batter with a large portion of chips on the side. There are lots of ideas for fish if you fancy a night off from the local chippy.

But the important part is finding the right tipple to go with it.

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People traditionally drink red wine at Easter as opposed to white wine or champagne, probably because bold reds can help the

chocolate go down that bit easier.

Some typical favourites include Cortegiara Valpolicella Ripasso. This delicious red will go superbly with all of that chocolate. Although be sure not to over indulge as a combination of the two could lead to a very sickly feeling.

What you’re drinking always depends on what you are eating. So on Good Friday when you’re tucking into a nice piece of fish, a suggested white wine may be more appropriate.

A glass of Errazuriz Wild Ferment Chardonnay will provide a delicate citrus taste and is perfect to accompany any white fish such as cod or haddock.

Gran Fassian Trittenheimer Riesling Spätlese will be perfect for that Easter Sunday lunch, especially if you will be enjoying a cooked ham. The apple and honey flavours that this wine offers will be perfect for a roast meal.

If you're feeling a little enthusiastic then you could try buying your own rump of ham and cooking it for lunch. All you need to do is boil style spring 08

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Easter feasts it until cooked (depending on the size) and then cover it in honey, rosemary and garlic cloves, then roast it in the oven for about 30 minutes, turning it occasionally. Add all of the seasonal trimmings to make a truly scrumptious meal.

Easter is also a time to enjoy the traditional hot cross bun. These sticky, fruit filled buns are delicious when toasted with lots of butter on top, so it is no wonder this Easter treat is a popular choice all year round.

No Easter would be complete without simnel cake. Traditionally this rich fruit cake would be eaten at the end of Lent, and the cake would be decorated with 11 marzipan balls - try making your own by following our recipe.

So this Easter, step into the kitchen, put on your aprons and cook up some tasty treats for you and your little ones.

Simnel cake Making a simnel cake is actually quite simple. You will need: Ingredients: (For the base) 110g butter 110g soft brown sugar 4 eggs (one for glazing) 150g plain flour A pinch of salt 350g mixed raisins, currants and sultanas 55g chopped mixed peel 2 tbsp jam (For the marzipan) 125g caster sugar 125g ground almonds 1 egg 1/2 tsp almond essence

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Method: • First add all of the base ingredients (except for the jam) together in a large bowl and mix well.

• Then spoon the mixture into a greased cake tin and bake for 90 minutes.

• Make your marzipan by adding all of the ingredients together.

• Smooth the jam over the top of your cake once it has cooled, and then roll out the marzipan and place half of it over the top of the cake.

• You can then roll 11 small balls with the left over marzipan and decorate your cake with them.

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Win a wedding IF you have started to organise your dream wedding, then you’re probably beginning to realise how much work is involved in creating the perfect day.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could have it all prepared for you and just turn up looking radiant – with nothing to worry about but saying your vows correctly (and not falling over whilst gracing the aisle of course?!)

But your dreams could actually come true!

Wedding Belles bridal retail company knows only too well how much there is to organise, and is offering to do it all for you!

The company, based in Anglesey and Llandudno is running a competition for a deserving couple to win a whole wedding to take place on November 5, 2008.

Worth over £18,000, the packages includes everything from the bride’s and bridesmaid’s dresses, shoes, jewellery and flowers, to the groom’s party’s outfits. It also includes: *Drinks reception and wedding breakfast at a North Wales premier four star hotel *Civil ceremony *Bridal suite for the wedding night *Your own wedding planner *Bespoke designer wedding rings *Wedding cars *Bouquets and buttonholes *Photographer and videographer *Designer wedding cake and chocolate fountain *Venue dressing and flowers *Invitations, place cards and table plans *Bridal lingerie *Harpist *Lucky chimney sweep *Bridal hair and make-up *Mobile crèche *Hen and stag activity weekend *Spa day for bride and guest *Accommodation night before wedding

Winner of the Bridal Buyer Awards 2006 and finalists of the UK Best Bridal Retailer and Best Retailer Website 2008, Wedding Belles decided to hold the competition to celebrate its 10th year in business whilst raising funds for a good cause.

Diane from Wedding Belles said: "We could have had a staff party, but we wanted to do something memorable and raise funds for Welsh Air Ambulance (WAA) which is desperate for funding.

"It costs £1,000 every time they get airborne, and is funded totally by charity.

"Divided into three zones (North, Mid and South Wales) its combined number of missions flown is over 7,700 – North alone has flown 3,000 missions since 2003.

"40% of their missions are to serious road accidents, and given my previous life as an A&E nurse I have seen the difference they make in matters of life and death."

For more information on how to enter, telephone Wedding Belles Llanfairpwll on (01248) 717200 and Llandudno (01492) 879449, visit www.winaweddingcompetition.co.uk or email Diane@weddingbellesbrides.co.uk. And don’t forget to check out the advert on the left.

To enter, you need to fill in a form explaining in less than 250 words why you deserve to win the wedding. There is a £5 minimum donation entry fee going directly to WAA and the closing date is April 14.

A shortlist of finalists will be drawn and judged by a celebrity panel headed by world renowned opera star Bryn Terfel, actor Iestyn Garlick and TV presenter, Llinos Lee. Winners will be announced Oscar-style by Bryn at a black tie and tiara ball on June 14 at Barcud TV studios Caernarfon. The event will be filmed by ITV Wales as part of Love is in the Air, a documentary series. The story will also be covered in Trinity Mirror newspapers. style spring 08

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Welsh pride Paul Baker delves into the reasons we celebrate St David's Day. ON the first day of March each year, the feast of St David is celebrated by the Welsh community both in Wales and throughout the world, perhaps by holding a grand celebration, or perhaps simply by wearing a daffodil.

There are many traditions associated with St David's Day, but what is it that makes him so significant to the country of Wales and to the Welsh people?

The answer may lie, not in leeks or daffodils and an excuse for a party, but in a traditional and epic poem called the Armes Prydain. This poem contained a prophesy saying that, despite the differences and rivalries that exist between

the various peoples of Wales, they would join together as one under the name of St David.

Perhaps it is this vision of shared heritage and real unity as a "Welsh people" that brings such passion and national pride to the fore every March 1.

Saint David, or Dewi Sant, is believed to have lived and taught around the first half of the sixth century. Wales, at this time, was free from the grip of the Roman invasion and David - a descendant of the royal house of Ceredigion was well schooled.

He was famed as a teacher and he is said to have founded a monastic community in the Vale of Roses (Glyn Rhosyn), in Pembrokeshire, at the current site of St David's Cathedral. In fact, it is said that St Patrick may well have spent some time there before departing to take Christianity to Ireland, so the cultural histories of these two great Celtic nations are linked once again.

Glyn Rhosyn would become one of the most sacred shrines in the Christian world along with the focal point for the rise of Christianity in Wales, and a symbol of Welsh national power and independence.

The date chosen to celebrate the life and legacy of St David is said to have been the date of his death. On March 1, children across Wales will

St David’s Flags

perform and sing songs for St David and wear either the symbol of Wales - the daffodil - or the symbol of St David himself - the leek.

Sometimes girls will come to school wearing traditional Welsh dress and a Te Bach might be enjoyed - tea with teisen bach and bara brith.

St David’s Day is also an opportunity to fly the flag of Saint David’s, along with the traditional red dragon.

Apart from the flying of flags, concerts and 'Nosweithiau Llawen' - merry evenings - may be held. Local clubs and societies might hold an evening of Cawl (broth) and invite a guest speaker to celebrate with them.

Of course, it wouldn't be St David's Day without the St David's Day Parade. The main one is held annually in Cardiff on March 1 and is open to anybody who wishes to enjoy it.

Other towns hold similar events and the parade at Colwyn Bay is usually pretty spectacular.

That's the beauty of St David's Day - it allows people to come together no matter what their age, ethnicity or background, and celebrate the culture, heritage, traditions and the people of Wales.

For one glorious day, the entire Welsh nation can be united under the banner of Dewi Sant, for one wonderful party.

Last year's St David's Day parade in Colwyn 28

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Cerys comes home It’s all over the front page as Wales’ first lady of rock comes to Anglesey to celebrate St David’s Day. Michelle Rushton reports…

FRESH from the jungle, Cerys Matthews will be headlining Anglesey’s St David’s Day Festival this Saturday, March 1.

Recently seen overcoming the bush tucker trials and tribulations of ITV’s I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here and winning a new legion of fans, Cerys will be performing tracks from her new Welsh language mini-album, Awyren=Aeroplane, as well as tracks from throughout her career at the island festival.

The former lead singer of Catatonia said: "I am thrilled to be celebrating my homecoming

with a huge show in Anglesey on St David’s Day. "Join us on March 1 to celebrate the Patron Saint of Wales with some new and old, original and crazy-hoe-down versions of my favourite songs."

Guaranteed to draw the crowds with her sweet husky voice, the Festival line-up will also include Bryn Fôn and American singersongwriter, Jeb Loy Nichols.

It’s a real honour for the Isle of Anglesey County Council, which hosts the annual event at the Mona Showground.

Anglesey’s principal tourism and marketing development officer, Gethin Morgan, who has been busy organising the St David’s Day Festival, said: "Cerys’ presence is obviously a huge coup for us, especially given the increasing demands on her time since appearing on I’m A Celebrity.’

"On Anglesey, we’re committed to making our St David’s Day celebrations the best in Wales, and by attracting quality recording

artists like Cerys to perform, we’re well on our way to achieving our aim."

Council leader, Cllr Gareth Winston Roberts OBE, added: "This is the third year for us to hold this festival and it’s clearly going from strength to strength.

"We also hope that an event of this quality will attract local people as well as people from across Wales and the UK to celebrate the spirit of Wales with us."

Fans from as far afield as Cardiff have been snapping up tickets faster than the jungle crocs that Cerys is now accustomed to. The tickets are priced £15 and are available from: *Cob Records (01248) 353020 *Cwpwrdd Cornel (01248) 750218 *Tourist Information Centre, Llanfairpwll (01248) 713177 *Tourist Information Centre, Holyhead (in the port terminal building) (01407) 762622 *Anglesey Business Centre (01248) 752435 www.sebon.co.uk AS the island rocks to Cerys’ husky tones, the mainland will also be celebrating the day of our patron saint.

Over at Venue Cymru, Llandudno, internationally renowned stars from the world of opera and baroque will taking to the stage for a St David’s Day charity concert to raise money for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

The classical concert is the brainchild of Rhodri Hampson-Jones who has quite a bit of experience organising concerts for the Maelgwn Male Voice Choir and has set up Gwalia Promotions, promoting Welsh performers and classical concerts.

A proud Welshman, Rhodri noticed that there wasn’t much on in the area to celebrate St David’s Day and decided to take up the baton and stage a concert himself at Venue Cymru.

And what a feast of Welsh artists it promises to be starring local man, David Kempster.

The baritone from Chirk sings all over the world, and has represented Wales in the Cardiff Singer of the World competition.

He will be joined on the stage by Swansea’s Elin Manahan Thomas. In demand as a soloist Welsh baroque soprano, her Per Jesu has made her one of the most sought after performers in the UK. Completing the line-up is tenor Adriano Graziani, also from near Swansea, whose Italian style of singing wowed the audience in March 2007 at Maelgwn’s Three Tenors concert. His style has been likened to Mario Lanza.

“There is nothing better than seeing an audience leaving the theatre smiling, “ said Rhodri. “And that’s my goal for St David’s Day.” For more information and tickets visit ww.gwaliapromotions.co.uk

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Out and about Sarah Hooly puts a spring in your step this Easter.

COME rain or shine, there’s an eggstravaganza of events on this Easter in North Wales - and whether you’re looking for an eggxciting day out for the whole family, or simply want to marvel at the wonders of North Wales, the region has everything you could need for a fantastic day out.

A spectacular part of the world, North Wales looks particularly glorious during spring and from its rolling countryside, rocky mountains and miles of coastline to hundreds of fantastic attractions there a wealth of activities to keep even the most lively of families entertained over half term.

activities undercover, there’s no need to panic if the heavens open and threaten to spoil your day. From a trip to Rhyl Pavilion Theatre where you can catch Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s fantastic production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, from March 24 to 29, to enjoying fishy tails at Anglesey Sea Zoo, Brynsiencyn, as well as getting creative at Piggery Pottery near Caernarfon, there’s no reason to let a little bit of rain get in the way of a great day out.

Thanks to the region’s rich history, there are also a great selection of imposing castles and gaols, as well as captivating museums and art galleries certain to captivate kids and adults alike.

Embark on an egg-tra special train journey with the Welsh Highland Railway this Easter. Pic credited to © Crown copyright (2008) Visit Wales.

Visit the enchanting Portmeirion for a great family day out.

Pic credited © Crown copyright (2008) Visit Wales.

Fun for all the family this Easter at Anglesey Sea Zoo. Pic credited to © Crown copyright (2008) Visit Wales.

Out and about, why not explore some of the region’s most charming towns and attractions?

The beautiful Bodnant Garden and enchanting village of Portmeirion are just two great places worth a visit, or if you feel like burning off some of that pent up energy built up over winter, the region also boasts an array of activities. Including quad biking at Glasfryn Parc, near Pwllheli, rock climbing in Snowdonia or skiing in Llandudno, there is certain to be something that’ll keep your little monkeys happy.

Alternatively, with an equal abundance of style spring 08

Make the most of Easter by getting out and about on North Wales's beautiful beaches. Pic credited to © Crown copyright (2008) Visit Wales.

What’s more, there are a number of special Easter events planned for the school holidays.

Whether you fancy a day of family fun with Mr Bimbamboozle at Penrhyn Castle in Bangor, March 24, would rather hunt for Easter eggs at Erddig in Wrexham, March 21 to March 24, or embark on an important ‘Easter Bunnies’ trip with the Welsh Highland Railway, Porthmadog, on March 23, there’s so much to do. For those who fancy testing their nerve, you could even head to Greenfield Valley Heritage Park, Holywell, on March 25 when their Victorian School will be opening their doors.

So for an egg-tradionary Easter, simply fill up that flask, wrap up warm and get out and about in North Wales.

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Stylish seaside living Additionally, the ground floor apartments will have a small terrace area, while those on the upper floors will have a Juliet or walk-on balcony giving panoramic sea or coastline views.

Another fabulous development from Beck Homes is a truly unique property opportunity set within Bodlondeb Castle in Llandudno.

Emma Thompson checks out some fabulous properties by the sea WITH Wales surrounded on three sides by the sea, it’s no wonder there are fabulous developments allowing you to live just a stone’s throw away from the water's edge.

One of the recent developments that has just opened its doors is situated on the West Promenade of Rhos on Sea, and these superb new apartments at The Waterfront are set in a great position.

Built by Charter Homes, househunters are already taking advantage of the excellent offers with more than half already reserved.

The striking new show apartment has a contemporary design in keeping with its seaside location, having a natural green and linen theme complemented by Wenge furniture and glass detailing.

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Charter Homes ensures all its properties carry high specification and quality, and The Waterfront development is no different, with all apartments having underfloor heating to1

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32 s t y l e s u m m e r

1 fabulous new designer apartments at Doc Fictoria (Victoria Dock) are positioned in the chic new Caernarfon Marina and provide uninterrupted sea views.

Providing up to 3,000 sq ft of stunning multilevel living space with balconies overlooking the marina, Menai Strait and Caernarfon Castle, they offer amazing value for money at

8 With only three apartments remaining there’s no time to waste in viewing these spectacular homes, priced from £269,950.

Benefiting from top-of the range appliances, fittings and modern technology it’s a sharp contrast to the castle’s history, that offers plenty of charm.

Sales manager Simon DiCanio says: "This building is one of the most striking in the area and we believe we have thoughtfully transformed the interior to provide high specification apartments of which residents can be proud.

"From the impressive façade to the imposing entrance hall, the style of the building has been maintained; only when you enter the

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3

5

the bathrooms and kitchens.

Prices start from £149,950, and the development includes a range of 23 different size one, two and three bedroom stunning apartments facing the sea, and along with the fully furnished show apartment, the company is about to launch two view apartments.

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apartments can the introduction of modern styling be seen."

The three-bedroom duplex includes a £23,000 interior design package already fitted and enjoys impressive views of the north and west shore beaches from the turret dining room, making this a spectacular home.

Another area offering luxury living in a stunning location is in the beautiful and historic town of Caernarfon.

Created by Watkin Jones Homes, these

just £285,000.

Crafted to the highest specifications throughout this is true designer living with fabulous fully fitted interiors.

So for stylish living with coastal views, North Wales has a whole host of ideal properties.

1. Experience contemporary living in the charming converted Bodlondeb Castle from Beck Homes.

2/3. Enjoy coastal views from the turret dining room and a high quality interior design package at Bodlondeb Castle from Beck Homes.

4. In keeping with its seaside location, The Waterfront development from Charter Homes has a natural green and linen theme.

5. Having modern features and quality fittings The Waterfront from Charter Homes is well worth a visit.

6. An artists impression of the apartments available in Rhos On Sea at The Waterfront development from Charter Homes.

7. Created by Watkin Jones Homes, these fabulous new designer apartments at Doc Fictoria (Victoria Dock) are positioned in the chic new Caernarfon Marina.

8. Stylish interiors with stunning views at Doc Fictoria in Caernarfon Marina. style spring 08

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Deals on wheels On March 1 the new ‘08’ car number plate is launched. Paul Baker checks out the best deals across the showrooms.

IT’S that time of the year again - new car registration time – and as March 1 rolls around, the new ‘08-plate’ is launched.

It’s always a great time to buy with deals aplenty and lots of new models hitting showrooms. This year, however new car buyers are so spoilt for choice it may actually be difficult to make your mind up, according to a report from EurotaxGlass, the company behind the series of vehicle price guides "Glass’s Guide to Car Values" for 75 years.

From February, buyers can select from more than 7,000 different model derivatives, which is a 75% increase over the 4,000 available at the beginning of the decade.

These numbers will be swelled further before the end of the year with manufacturers aiming to introduce a further 72 new model ranges.

The greatest influx of new models will comprise large cars from the mainstream manufacturers.

Some of the deals currently on offer are spectacular but it is important to know what they are before entering the showroom.

Here's a brief overview of the latest deals...

Small cars: *Ford’s Fiesta is being replaced by an all-new range so there are cracking deals to be had on Renault Clio

represent savings of about £150 for every £1,000 spent. Yep, that’s £1,500 saved on a £10,000 model. *Renault’s Twingo can be had with discounts of up to almost £750 in the case of the 1.2litre 75bhp Dynamique model. *Vauxhall Corsa models come with free finance over three years with a 20 per cent deposit in some cases. *Volkswagen’s Polo is available with reductions of more than £950 for the sought-after Bluemotion models.

Family models: *Vauxhall Astra models come with a threeyear finance deal at just 3.9 per cent, plus £500 off in some cases.

Vauxhall Astra *Peugot’s 308 can be bought with a massive saving of up to £2,000 on models such as the 2.0 HDi 136 SE five door. *Ford’s Focus is being replaced with a revised range so expect to pay about £1,950 less for the previous ones including the Zetec Climate plus free Sports and ICE packs. *Nissan’s Qashqai may be the success story of the industry but is still available with free finance on some models over three years with a 30 per cent deposit. *Ford’s Mondeo is proving hugely successful and can be bought at a rate of 7.9 per cent with £1,000 off. *Renault’s Laguna may be brand spanking new but there are discounts of up to £2,500 to be had on models such as the 150bhp diesel Hatch. *Vauxhall’s Vectra comes with a great moneysaving deal of free finance over four years on Exclusiv versions with a 30 per cent deposit. *Ford Focus models come with a standard price cut of at least £1,500 because of the BMW 3 Series

the current crop. The Zetec Climate is typical, with a whopping £1,300 off plus Technology and Sport packs now included. *Nissan faces extremely tough opposition for its Micra models from newcomers such as the Fiat 500 so there are discounts of up to £1,000. *Renault Clios come with cheap finance that 34

arrival of the newer range. *Vauxhall Astra estates in most guises come with interest-free finance over four years with a 30 per cent deposit. *BMW 3 Series models may not be famed for their discounts but stiff competition means reductions of about £2,500 on models such as the 320d ES. This is the biggest time of year for buying new cars and competition has never been as fierce with dealers desperate to shift stocks.

Nissan Qashqai Showrooms are awash with new models and it is very much a buyer’s market as manufacturers have invested millions in a bid to out-do each other.

Sectors of the market that were once referred to as "niche" are now mainstream and buyers are spoilt for choice.

New cars have been given the sort of safety, security and luxury features as standard that were once expensive optional extras, including air conditioning, remote central locking, electric windows and masses of air bags.

Despite this huge investment there are still deals to be done on even the most lavishlyequipped models. Dealers expect buyers to haggle and usually have room for manoeuvre within the official list prices.

See if you can bag a great deal on an 08-plate car at your local dealership. You’ll be the envy of the neighbourhood

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