OM Magazine, Issue 14, September 2017 by OM Plymouth Magazine

OM Plymouth 104 September ‘17

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Plymouth & South Hams Leading Lifestyle Magazine

Oakley’s Coaches We meet Paul Oakley, who along with the help of his wife Michelle runs Oakley’s Coaches

Signs Express A year after our first visit, we catch up with Chris Reilly at Signs Express and meet his newest team member

! N I WM&S

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Plympton Chamber We visit Stella Goodman to talk all things Christmas ahead of Plympton Chamber switching on the Ridgeway lights

Plymouth Seafood Festival The city prepares to cook up a storm this month!

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www.omplymouthmagazine.co.uk Creative Director Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net Editor Libbi Chapple Libbi@oracle.uk.net Accounts Emma-Jane Corry emma@oracle.uk.net Sales Managers Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net Emily Trace emily@oracle.uk.net Graphic Design Libbi Chapple BA (Hons) Tom Coles BA (Hons) tom@oracle.uk.net Editorial Libbi Chapple

Editor's Note... September is an exciting month, whether you have children starting school, or even University there’s lots to look forward too. Am I also allowed to say that it’s only 4 months until Christmas?! This month Plymouth is preparing to cook up a storm as the Seafood Festival takes place on the Barbican on the 16th and 17th of September. Turn to page 26 for more information on the excing annual event. There are lots of things happening in the city this month, one that I am particularly looking forward to is the Weekend of Wonders at Royal William Yard. Turn to page 33 for more exciting events the whole family can enjoy. We have plenty of interesting business profiles for you in this issue, so get ready for an inspiring read about hard working local businesses! Have a lovely month, and fingers crossed the sunshine is here to stay!

Libbi

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A year after our last visit, we catch up with Chris Reilly at Signs Express and meet new team member, Jess!

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but because of the positiv e feedback I was getting- I just knew it would work

Paul Oakley also offers coach service s. In 2012, Oakley’s Coache s won the contrac for two school runs. ts “I had to rush out and get two more coache s!

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us how most of his money goes on maintenance. “You can’t cut corners on maintenance; my engineering manag er Mike, loves it here

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Paul Oakley he has to send them to Exeter DVSA where they carry out a full COIF (Certificate of initial fitness) “They will measur and tell me how many e every single inch seats I can have. They certify it for its carrying capacity to ensure passenger safety”.

I employed a driver, tely transformed and I was the other kfast ofPaulthecomple the driver”. It didn’t really fr ambulance to a modern interior matter that Paul was z ng brea aed n di , fun and out of the office at unique party the time, Paul explain nce complete with s how For Nov urse w with a dancing pole.bus“I experie let the answer machin he could afford to wish I hadn’t sold e pick up the call és | 3 co it, it te wine was amazing!” The ap hi for party busses -“as w an party bus was a huge C d we were al the only ones hit, capable of holding offering this size party groups of up to 8 | Red an ur choice from people Season bus, you could be . “It was completely confident that you guests) killing the limos. mony | could return missed yo ur re Nobody wanted of | yo ce calls them r when es e co when you got back to the office”. the ambulance at th | Dis was on offer”. d sash sserts fo person guests vers an and de The industry in ink per general was going As ever, Paul’s desire , mains | Chair co ning Buffet for 65 s to progress was soon up and up, we were One dr put into action again starters osecco so busy. with his purchase There are a lot of of e three a coach to convert ate room es | Eve training ass of Pr party busses St ec in to a super-size gl pi ry (choos out ed party ta there, re coach. SIA • aid imen but most are small “At that point I was cent • Paediatric first aidatraining the only driver, so A chill er First pl | more and have karao & br l was out doing every I training training om la SIA ea handling C ke machines. We Manual de safety courses| •Two job. It was hard work; First aid trainingyour m CanSpectator just been crazy to were offering some it’s | s look back on”. ks thing ow or different, B £180 rew £140 something uniqu es and n is rt | Fi e Paul explains the day course, SIA qualificatio Sa4sh courses and more visit ins and andy ca For detailed information onorthese 3 day course, included both to drive these vehicles outs of being able Talking safety, Paul supervisors required for door C 0 give us a call. - and tells

Our photographer Tom Coles went along to the Chestnut Appeal’s Breakwater Swim

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We speak to Paul Oakley and his wife Michelle at Oakleys Coaches

Business Profile: Oakleys Coaches

and wasn’t credit “I had this old Jaguar, worthy. “I was 33 and someone years old, I had a failing I knew had a Rolls-R business that I basical oyce that was walked out of and ly recently written off. was sleeping on I ended up acquirin my g friend’s sofa”. Then it for a fair price and he met Michelle. had a friend help “I got a job driving a van me with the body work”. for WH Smith News for three nights a week; first step to Paul starting This is the I was there for about a business months when a contrac 4 in Wedding cars. “I bought t offer came up”. limo... and then I bought a stretch another stretch Paul couldn’t get limo and things credit just naturally built from works van, so Michell to purchase a there really”. Paul explains how there e offered to put up the finance on his was a huge boom behalf. “I always in the demand for made a promise to never limos at the time, let her so business was what happened betwee down no matter doing well. Howeve r, it started to n us as we had only been together four become stagnantmonths”. Paul tells and demand started us how it was hard work to dwindle. “I then said to Michelle- we with unsociable hours. He carried the work need a party vehicle! on for four years, ” and gained contracts with large compa niesTufnell’s, Toys r Us, Paul started looking Staples and B&Q online for to name a few. “I phoned something to spark his imagination, a lot of them up myself and introdu when he came across an ced my company, American it just sort of built from ambulance. “It was there really and I brilliant ; it still ended up with a small fleet had the stretcher of 6 vans!” in the back and everything”. Paul brough However Paul tells in 2005 and set about t it home us he did hit some converting rough patches. “I had some it in to a New York fire department expensive issues with a couple of vans. style ambulance. I ended up spendin “I’ve never trained g a lot , I was of money and long useless in school; story short I had I had no qualifications to bring a partner in- which when I left at all but lasted about 2 months when I put my mind Unfortunately, there !” something I’m determ to was a clash of opinion ined not to fail”. when it came to the business- then named Colebrook Light Haulag I was one of the first e, and Paul ultimate left with one van ly in the country to and one contract be doing what I was. to start a new venture.ri ng d It was risky,

f eat

Paul Oakley, with the help of wife Michelle, has a vehicles and multip business to be le contracts includ proud of. With an that Paul’s obviou ing school runs impressive fleet and the infamous s determination of 20 and hard work has Pryzm nightclub bus, it’s safe to really business, it is appar say ent that he is extrem paid off, and after sitting down to talk about his ely modest about n 1999, Paul Oakley his success. was unemployed

“

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BUSINESS PROFILE Paul Oakley, with the help of wife Michelle, has a business to be proud of. With an impressive fleet of 20 vehicles and multiple contracts including school runs and the infamous Pryzm nightclub bus, it’s safe to say that Paul’s obvious determination and hard work has really paid off, and after sitting down to talk about his business, it is apparent that he is extremely modest about his success.

However Paul tells us he did hit some rough patches. “I had some expensive issues with a couple of vans. I ended up spending a lot of money and long story short I had to bring a partner in- which lasted about 2 months!” Unfortunately, there was a clash of opinion when it came to the business- then named Colebrook Light Haulage, and Paul ultimately left with one van and one contract to start a new venture.

Paul started looking online for something to spark his imagination, when he came across an American ambulance. “It was brilliant; it still had the stretcher in the back and everything”. Paul brought it home in 2005 and set about converting it in to a New York fire department style ambulance. “I’ve never trained, I was useless in school; I had no qualifications when I left at all but when I put my mind to something I’m determined not to fail”.

“

I was one of the first in the country to be doing what I was. It was risky, but because of the positive feedback I was getting- I just knew it would work

Paul completely transformed the interior of the ambulance to a modern, fun and unique party bus experience complete with a dancing pole. “I wish I hadn’t sold it, it was amazing!” The party bus was a huge hit, capable of holding groups of up to 8 people. “It was completely killing the limos. Nobody wanted them when the ambulance was on offer”.

As ever, Paul’s desire to progress was soon put into action again with his purchase of a coach to convert in to a super-size party coach. “At that point I was the only driver, so I was out doing every job. It was hard work; it’s just been crazy to look back on”. Paul explains the ins and outs of being able to drive these vehicles- and the fact that he needed to apply for an operator’s licence. To ensure the standards of the new conversions

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Paul Oakley he has to send them to Exeter DVSA where they carry out a full COIF (Certificate of initial fitness) “They will measure every single inch and tell me how many seats I can have. They certify it for its carrying capacity to ensure passenger safety”. Paul Oakley also offers coach services. In 2012, Oakley’s Coaches won the contracts for two school runs. “I had to rush out and get two more coaches! I employed a driver, and I was the other driver”. It didn’t really matter that Paul was out of the office at the time, Paul explains how he could afford to let the answer machine pick up the call for party busses -“as we were the only ones offering this size party bus, you could be confident that you could return missed calls when you got back to the office”.

“

Paul couldn’t get credit to purchase a works van, so Michelle offered to put up the finance on his behalf. “I always made a promise to never let her down no matter what happened between us as we had only been together four months”. Paul tells us how it was hard work with unsociable hours. He carried the work on for four years, and gained contracts with large companiesTufnell’s, Toys r Us, Staples and B&Q to name a few. “I phoned a lot of them up myself and introduced my company, it just sort of built from there really and I ended up with a small fleet of 6 vans!”

“I had this old Jaguar, and someone I knew had a Rolls-Royce that was recently written off. I ended up acquiring it for a fair price and had a friend help me with the body work”. This is the first step to Paul starting a business in Wedding cars. “I bought a stretch limo... and then I bought another stretch limo and things just naturally built from there really”. Paul explains how there was a huge boom in the demand for limos at the time, so business was doing well. However, it started to become stagnant- and demand started to dwindle. “I then said to Michelle- we need a party vehicle!”

“

n 1999, Paul Oakley was unemployed and wasn’t credit worthy. “I was 33 years old, I had a failing business that I basically walked out of and was sleeping on my friend’s sofa”. Then he met Michelle. “I got a job driving a van for WH Smith News for three nights a week; I was there for about 4 months when a contract offer came up”.

The industry in general was going up and up, we were so busy. There are a lot of party busses out there, but most are smaller and have karaoke machines. We were offering something different, something unique

Talking safety, Paul tells us how most of his money goes on maintenance. “You can’t cut corners on maintenance; my engineering manager Mike, loves it here

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- OAKLEYS COACHES

“We have recently been inspected and they were very impressed with our set up and found no issues with the workings of the company , this is a huge compliment as they do look closely at all the systems and procedures and to not have any area where improvement is needed is rare indeed”. Paul shows us around his premises, and into the workshop where all the in-house maintenance takes place. One of Oakley’s towering double Decker coaches is being worked on as we walk in and his experienced staff are busy underneath the coach. Paul wasn’t exaggerating when he said they were completely self sufficient and it is definitely impressive. Oakley’s Coaches has gone from strength to strength, starting out as Paul himselfOakley’s Coaches now have 14 employees and an impressive fleet of 20 vehicles. “I like to have spare vehicles, so we’re totally self sufficient. It’s nice to know that if something goes wrong then you’re covered. I’m always conscious of- not just the stress of a breakdown, but ensuring your customers receive the service they have a right to expect and do not leave with a negative experience of the company”.

It’s safe to say that the businesses success is down to the hard work and determination of Paul. He explains how he decided to train and become a CPC holder for transport manager- which means he holds the ability to schedule all planning routes, maintenance and driving hours. “I didn’t want to rely on others managing my company “He officially passed in 2012 and has been a transport manager for the past 5 years. “I had a choice when my previous transport manager left, answer to somebody else or be completely self-sufficient so I just had to get through those exams!” We ask Paul what the most rewarding aspect of his job is. The answer takes us by surprise to start with! “The most rewarding aspect is when we’re having a really busy day and something goes wrong. When all of your staff and all your vehicles are out on the road and something happens, the stress levels are astronomical to start with of course- but at the end of the day we sit there and we think- wow we got through it and didn’t let anyone down”.

“

because if something needs doing we do it! There is no compromise on passenger and vehicle safety. Mike has played a huge part in getting to the high standards we have now- we are lucky to have such a good team around us”. Paul tells us he wants his coaches to be as safe as possible, and he wants to be confident in the case of a visit from the DVSA, the driver and vehicle standards agency- who run random spot checks on public service vehicles to ensure they are safe for use.

It’s hard work and at the end of the day this sort of industry is a way of life. A healthy business will just keep growing and that’s exactly what we’ve done Paul explains that the business is at a point now where they need more help. Whether this be purchasing more vehicles to reach demand, or hiring more employees and drivers. “Normally in August we’re really quiet because obviously the kids are off school- but we’ve been really busy! It’s good but tiring”.

Talking about future plans for the business, Paul explains how he would eventually like to take a step back and taper his

Paul and his wife Michelle involvement down. “My youngest son would love to be an apprentice in the workshops when he’s older just like his big brother who already works with us, so that’s something that has future potential. Michelle and I have talked about bringing someone in who we could train up and possibly take over as transport manager; I would still oversee the whole thing”. To conclude, we ask Paul what the secret to his success is. “Probably commitment and hard work, I think that’s about it! I’m not a clever person, so determination or maybe stubbornness... I won’t allow myself to fail”. Paul and his family have sacrificed a lot to be where they are today, so for the business to fall by the wayside was simply not an option. “You have to have the right person standing behind you and supporting you. Michelle has been my rock, and she is so organised! There came a point where I couldn’t cope on my own, so Michelle came in about 5 years ago to help with running the office. The DVSA visited on the day Michelle started actually- Just after she finished sorting out the mess that was my office- Says it all really! Michelle sat down with them and went through what systems they wanted to see improvements on and worked swiftly to put them all in place, I haven’t looked back” “I made a promise to Michelle when she put up the finance for my first van; it’s kind of stuck with me. I’ve just kept going and I haven’t stopped yet”.

Email: oakleyscoachesdevon@hotmail.co.uk | Call: 01752 729866 | Visit: oakleyscoaches.co.uk Please mention OM Magazine when responding to adverts

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September 2017 11

BUSINESS PROFILE 20 years ago, Chris Reilly left the Navy and opened the Plymouth branch of Signs Express. He’s part of the largest signs company in the UK and Ireland, which have branches across the country. They’re “Proud to Franchise”. We catch up with Chris a year after our first interview, to see what changes have been made to the business.

igns Express is a franchise that works really well for Chris. “I can pick up the phone and talk to someone that I’ve known for a very long time, and they can give me advice- although it’s not needed all that much now!” After 20 years running the Plymouth branch, Signs Express is going from strength to strength, and Chris has expanded his business with a new team member.

degree in Illustration at Plymouth University, and carried on her managerial role at Vue Cinema after graduating. “It was a filler job whilst I was at university really; illustration wasn’t working out for me so I started looking for something more in between”. That’s when a family friend recommended Chris. Jess applied for the vacancy, and her ‘can do’ attitude proved the right match for the job!

Jessica Parnell, a graphic designer for Signs Express- is the newest edition to the team, and is settling in extremely well. Chris tells us that he needed to take on another member of staff due to continuing demand plus new skills and a new perspective. “I took Jess on to help with our designing. We weren’t keeping up with demand so I wanted someone with a fresh set of eyes to come in and offer an enhanced service to our customer base”.

The business specialises in vehicle graphics, exterior and interior signs, window graphics, exhibition displays, PVC banners, labels and stickers, and health and safety signs for Plymouth and the surrounding areas. Jess tells us that she was already familiar with a lot of the design software that Signs Express use, as well as the printing machines. “I pick up new things quite quickly, which is a massive help”. Jess has also taken on the role of Social Media expert, after Chris tells us he tends to shy away from it! “Jess has been excellent; she’s come in and completely sorted it all out. She has made us an instagram which is great as we are such a visual business”.

Talking about getting the job, Jess tells us that the biggest challenge was actually coming in on that first day. “Being completely on my own and knowing that the guys have all been working together for years was quite daunting. However it is clear to see she has settled in extremely well! “I think the guys are great. They’re all so helpful; I’m picking up the office banter already!”

“

Jess, who has only been with Signs Express for a few weeks; tells us that she finished her

“

Chris tells us that attitude is the key reason he chose Jess to fulfil that role. “I took Jess on, not just because of the work that she had done in the past, but because of her attitude. We can train her exactly as we want her to work, but attitude is something that you just can’t teach”.

“

It’s very important that staff are multi skilled, and it’s a massive benefit in a small company like ours

Jessica Parnell and Chris Reilly

14 September 2017

It seems that Chris’ loyal and hardworking team is the reason behind Signs Express success. He tells us that having more than one design skill really benefits a small company, as employees can juggle the workload between them. “Nobody gets bogged down, because everyone can help them out. If someones away, another member can step into their shoes quite easily”.

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Chris tells us that since himself and his wife started up the franchise 20 years ago, the biggest challenge he has faced is finding the right staff. “We’ve got some really great staff now; and once you find them you have to keep them, because they’re like gold dust!” Mark, the Production Manager for Signs Express, tends to manage the floor now as Chris

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Great Blue Hole, Belize

- SIGNS EXPRESS, PLYMOUTH takes a step back. “I used to help with all of the design work, but now I’m more behind the scenes, managing the business and client relationships. I found that I was just getting in the way on the production floor!” A typical day for the Signs Express staff consists coming in at 8:20am for that all important cup of tea, followed by a brief team meeting about the day ahead. Chris and Production Manager Mark will then get together and discuss any emails and potential jobs that have come through. “Everyone here can quote on a job- which is another aspect of being multi skilled”.

“

Waiting on a quote seems to be the biggest complaint in our industry, so we always try and send one out after 24 hours of enquiry. It’s in our name after all- Express!

The printing industry tends to progress rapidly in terms of new technology, and Chris explains that they are looking to upgrade some of their equipment. “Our digital printer is coming to the end of its life, so we are looking to replace that. There is new technology out there now that means the ink dries onto the material straight

away. This will surely speed the process up and help us turn around customers orders even quicker”. Mark, the Production Manager, tells us of their biggest job undertaken since we last spoke to the team in 2016. “We’ve recently undertaken work for Babcock, one of our regular clients. It was at their large facilities within the dockyard- and included large fabricated tray signsand digital prints among other items”. Signs Express carries out a lot of internal work for Princess Yachts, as well as their most commonly requested work; vehicle graphics. Jess, although having only been at the business for a short time; has already partially completed her first big job. “I got an email through enquiring about vehicle graphics. The initial process is mainly back and forward correspondence making sure you get a design that the client likes”. Jess tells us that it’s

important to find a good middle ground, as sometimes what the customer wants isn’t necessarily the best design for their needs. “You want them to have the best they can get, so I like to give them alternative ideas and pointers”. The Design was signed off, and the vehicles are due in for the graphics to be placed in two weeks. Talking about the future of the business, Chris tells us that he thinks he has the right team in place for long term success.“I want to sell on the business in the few years- and retire. I want to ensure the business is the best it can possibly be, so it can be passed on confidently”. As part of the franchising process, Chris has regular contact with a business Development Manager, who is helping him to progress with his plans. “He comes down to us at regular intervals and we speak on the phone twice a week so I am getting plenty of help from someone not directly involved with the business, which can really assist with keeping on track”. It’s clear to see that Chris has built Signs Express up to the success it is now, and his plan to retire at a high point is in steady progress. Jessica Parnell makes a great addition to the hard working team, and adds another skilful individual to the ever growing franchise business.

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September 2017 15

Leisure & Events

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CHESTNUT

APPEAL PLYMOUTH

BREAKWATER SWIM The sixth annual Chestnut Appeal Plymouth Breakwater swim took place on Sunday 13th August and it was an early start.

wimmers started gathering on Commercial Wharf from 6am just as the morning broke. The sun was out and there wasn’t a breath of wind. But out on the Sound a mist was clinging to the Breakwater and it meant that the start of the swim was slightly delayed. At 8am the Plymouth Sound and Spirit of Plymouth left Commercial Wharf with 260 swimmers on-board setting out for the Breakwater. The mist was clearing and at 8.30 the 2017 Plymouth Breakwater swim was underway. The sea conditions were excellent and the first of the swimmers were able to take advantage of the Tidal push. It wasn’t long before the lead swimmers could be sighted from the beach at Tinside. And it was a race to the finish line for Steven Hurley and Paul Brew; Steven managing to pip Paul right at the end. Swimmers then came in at a steady flow and with the crowds gathering around the Terraces overlooking Tinside Beach they were greeted with huge applause. The delayed start meant that the Tide would be on its way out by the time the latter swimmers were nearing land and they really had to swim hard to reach the finish area. David Squires from the Chestnut Appeal said ‘We’ve had glorious conditions today, it couldn’t have been better. The sea was very calm and it always helps when the sun is shining.’ In 2016 the swim raised over £30,000 for the Chestnut Appeal for Prostate Cancer an amount that helped the charity provide the very latest in equipment for faster diagnosis of prostate cancer now in place at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth. At a cost of £105,000 the Ultrasound - MRI Fusion Scanner for Targeted Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer is the first of its kind in the region. The Chestnut Appeal are now fundraising for two more scanners; one for the Royal Cornwall Hospital and the other for Torbay Hospital. David Squires from the Chestnut Appeal said “‘The charity would like to say a huge Thank you and well done to everyone who took part in the 2017 Plymouth Breakwater swim as well as to all the Volunteers who had to get up extra early and helped make the event such a great success.’ If you would like to take part in one of the Chestnut Appeal swims this year then there is a new swim just launched at Looe Island on 16th September and then on 17th September we have our annual Burgh Island swim.

To find out more www.chestnutappeal.org.uk or call David on 01752 792736

Photography by Tom Coles. See more photos from the event on our blog page. www.omplymouthmagazine.co.uk

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September 2017 17

Leisure & Events

18 September 2017

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September 2017 21

TARGET SET FOR LIGHTUP PLYMPTON 2017 The Plympton Chamber of Commerce have been responsible for the Ridgeway Christmas Lights, aptly names Lightup Plympton- for the past 7 years, and it’s safe to say that from very humble beginnings, the event has grown to impressive proportions. We visit Stella Goodman-Secretary of Plympton Chamber, Beverley Clarke- Volunteer, Mike Lee- Chairman and Mark Hinchliffe- committee member, to talk about how it all started, and their big plans for 2017’s event…

“The philosophy behind it was that it wanted to reach out to all Plympton businesses, one man bands to the larger companies and felt that price was a major factor for the smaller businesses. Some of our competitors can be quite expensive, so we wanted to reach out to local businesses and offer a fair price for that” says Stella. The Plympton Chamber of Commerce aims to represent, inform and support local businesses by holding local business network meetings. Stella tells us that the Ridgeway lights had been going on in some form for a few years before the Chamber was formed, but it had come to a halt due to lack of funding and local support. “Someone in the Chamber suggested it would be great if we could start it up again, as at that point there weren’t any lights for 5 years running. So, from those humble beginnings it all started really!” The first Ridgway Lights event run by the Chamber was held in 2010, the same year that the Chamber was formed. Stella tells us it wouldn’t have happened without the help of Phil John’s and his team at Weatherhead Shop designers. “Without them it just wouldn’t have gone ahead. It takes about a day and a half to get the lights up, not to mention all the testing beforehand- they dedicated their time to us and we can’t thank them enough”. There was a huge tree on display in the street, and Chamber members were handing out sweets to children and mulled wine to the adults for a real festive feeling. The first event in 2010 had a few hundred attendees, but that was set to grow in the

22 September 2017

following years. Beverley Clarke, a Chamber volunteer tells us that the figure has now grown to a few thousand attendees. “The Ridgeway was absolutely packed last year. It was so great to see”. Stella explains that in 2013, the popularity of the event was made apparent when it couldn’t go ahead, due to committee members being on holiday and lack of general support. “That year we had absolutely no lights, just a tree. The public really didn’t like it, so everyone started to get more involved to help bring it back again”. Chairman, Mike Lee tells us that as a result of this, Mike Lee- Chairman, Stella Goodman- Secretary the Chamber organised and (below) Beverley Clarke- Volunteer a number of fundraising events; charity bag packing, pig racing, quiz Plymouth City Council”. The Chamber nights and black tie events to name a spends most of the year fundraising and few! “It really kicked off, and in 2014 we gearing up for the light switch on. “Every had an events company come in and help year it gets bigger so more money needs us organise the whole thing”. Plympton to be raised to keep up with this. We Councillors have also shown their support would love to have more LED lights, as by donating to the Chamber for the past 4 the original ones we use have been in years, and with the help of public donations, situ for over 20 years- we need to move the event continues to grow and grow. forward with those now!”

“

he Plympton Chamber first formed in 2010. Stella Goodman, the Secretary for the Plympton Chamber moved her offices to Plympton in 2008 and joined what was formerly known as the Ridgeway Traders Association. The Chair, Andrew Briggs felt they should be reaching out to the larger Plympton business community and so the Plympton Chamber came into being.

Plympton Chamber would like to thank everyone who have donated and dedicated their time over the years to enable the event to be what it is today

Moving on to 2017’s event, Stella is keen to tell us that they have big plans. “The budget that needs to be raised is £7000, which includes the ongoing cost of new lights, insurances and permits from

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The more money raised, the better the event and the better it is for the community. We are all passionate about this and want to see it grow bigger and bigger! The Chamber are keen to tell us that they are running the event completely self sufficiently this year. “Planning the event takes time, we have to decide where the stage goes, where all the traders’ stalls are going to go and make sure there is

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enough room for emergency vehicle access if needed”. Mike tells us that this will be their fourth year having an event with a road closure. There is a real community feel to Lightup Plympton. Beverley tells us how the local Methodist Church organises a nativity, and local schools have choirs performing on the night. “There is a real local feel, everyone loves to get involved”. Mark Hinchliffe, a committee member, explains that they already have some stalls lined up for 2017. “We wanted a real variety of food stalls, to give it a Christmassy feel. We’ve already secured a Prosecco bar which is exciting!” Stella goes back to her original point about ensuring the Chamber has fair prices, and that this has to be reflected in their events. “It’s important that we have affordable stalls. If you’ve got a large family coming down to enjoy the night, you don’t want unrealistic prices to ruin that”.

“

Plympton Chamber are offering a number of sponsorship packages for local businesses. These packages aim for the business to promote themselves whilst supporting a local event

Ahead of the Plympton Light switch on, or Lightup Plympton, as it is known- The Chamber are introducing sponsorship packages for local businesses. These packages range from the ‘basic sponsor’ priced at £25, right through to an extensive sponsorship package, or the ‘platinum sponsor’ reasonably priced at £995. Stella explains that every year the Chamber has a large tree in the spotlight at the event, and each sponsorship package enables the business to have a bauble on the tree to show their support. This is a great centre piece to the evening, and a great way to showcase your business in a fun and festive way! The more extensive packages include links to the business on the Chambers social media portals, flyers banners and posters, and even a banner on the main stage. “Our aspiration is, if the packages take off then it eases the stress of fundraising throughout the year. Of course we will still carry on with this as it’s a great opportunity for the community to get together”.

“

The event this year will be held on Monday 27th of November. The stalls and grotto will be open from 3pm, and the lights will be switched on at 6:30pm.

Stella explains that they have an exciting surprise guest from Game of Thrones switching on the lights this year, and a fun raffle prize which is a three course meal cooked by the chairman Mike Lee himself. The winner will be waited on hand and foot by Stella and Beverley. Definitely a prize worth winning! The Chamber are always looking for volunteers to help. “We are in need of volunteers to help put the lights up 2 weeks prior to the event, and to take them down again. We are also welcoming any local entertainers that would like to showcase their skills on the night!”

If you are a business interested in the sponsorship package, or keen to get involved in this years event, then visit the Chamber website for more information Website: Plymptonchamber.co.uk | Call: 01752 340183 Email: enquiries@plymptonchamber.co.uk

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September 2017 23

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CONTaCT partY CENTral

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September 2017 23

Leisure & Events

Plymouth prepares to cook up a storm

in this month’s Seafood Festival The Plymouth Seafood Festival, organised by the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, takes place on Saturday 16 to Sunday 17 September, and will be bringing the Barbican and Sutton Harbour alive with a celebration of locally sourced and sustainably caught, high quality seafood. Councillor Glenn Jordan, Cabinet Member for Culture said: “Plymouth City Council are delighted to be supporting the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership by delivering a spectacular weekend, celebrating our fantastic locally and sustainably caught seafood.

It is great to see this event growing each year, and now supporting the wider marine sector as well as our fishing industry. It is very fitting, being Britain’s Ocean City that we recognise and celebrate this important sector The Festival will be offering visitors a weekend full of delicious dishes for all the family to enjoy as well as hands-on activities, including a children’s activity trail, cookery fun workshops where they can touch and taste local produce, as well as fascinating demonstrations and competitions.

Images Courtesy of Weareonshore

PWP’s Waterfront Manager and Chief Executive, Sarah Gibson, said: “I’m really excited about this year’s Plymouth Seafood Festival. It looks to be the biggest yet as it celebrates Britain’s Ocean City’s sustainable seafood offer. Plymouth certainly has much to shout about when it comes to the local fishing industry as ours was the first city in the world to be awarded the Fish2Fork Blue Fish status for its commitment to sourcing sustainable fish.

The Plymouth Fish Market was the largest fresh fish market in England in 2015, by landed weight. Plymouth Fisheries will be opening their doors for visitors during the weekend. “With so much on offer it’s no surprise that we have such a fantastic variety of seafood restaurants across the Waterfront and available to enjoy year-round. The festival is a great celebration of our local fishing industry and our Waterfront businesses in a weekend of family-fun.” Well known regional chefs from some of the best restaurants in the South West, will be showing off their culinary skills in the special Cookery Theatre. Throughout the weekend visitors can sample the delights of everything from lobster to whelk, as well as learning some new cooking techniques, such as picking crab. Join in the fish auction of the day’s freshly caught catch; all contributions support the Fisherman’s Mission charity. Top local chef, Jacques Marchal, said: “When I was asked six years ago to help organise a Seafood Festival I was happy and

26 September 2017

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excited to get involved. Moving on to the present this year, we will have lots of activities for the children, tasty morsels for the parents and a great weekend in store. See you there!” You will be spoilt for choice with the huge selection of delicious food stalls to enjoy, and the children will love the crabbing competition along the harbour, by the Boathouse Café. CATERed will be entertaining the children with hands-on cookery fun and activities, where they can learn about local produce through touch and taste. The National Marine Aquarium will be producing a fun trail with activities for the children to complete throughout their visit, with the opportunity to win some great prizes.

We are looking forward to welcoming the festival’s official resident artist, Debby Mason, who will have a selection of her beautiful work on display New for this year is the second demonstration area at Quay Square, where you can watch demonstrations, join in Q&A sessions, learn about what fish are in season from our industry partners Plymouth Trawler Agents. And, more importantly, where to purchase the freshest, locally caught seafood. Climb on-board the fishing trawlers, supplied by Interfish, and chat to the local fisherman about their fascinating and sometimes forbidding experiences out on the water. We are excited to see the return of the fantastic IMechE Cardboard Boat Race, which will be on Commercial Wharf on Saturday 16 September. Build a boat out of nothing but a few bits of cardboard and some sticky tape, and sail it around a course in Plymouth harbour. The winner is the last one to sink! Other highlights include the street food area on West Pier and on Sunday 17 September celebrity chef Mitch Tonks will be hosting a Crab Festival at his premium seafood restaurant Rockfish. With live music, entertainment, a stand for pots of crab cocktail, fresh crabmeat to buy and take home and of course a special menu featuring this great local shellfish. Mitch Tonks said, “Plymouth is the only city in the UK with a fish market right at its heart. In fact it’s the only fishing city right on the coast at the centre of England’s Seafood Coast, with the neighbouring ports of Newlyn and Brixham either side. And so, it’s very fitting that seafood should be celebrated here!”

The Sutton Harbour Ferry will be running from West Pier, during the Plymouth Seafood Festival weekend. It runs every quarter to and quarter past the hour from West Pier. It starts at 09:30 to 18:45. The price is £1 for a single trip and £1.50 for a return. Under 5’s go free. Plymouth Seafood Festival is delivered by Plymouth City Council, and is very grateful to its sponsors, Salcombe Gin, and its partners, including: Sutton Harbour Holdings, Plymouth Fisheries, Plymouth Trawler Agents, Interfish, National Marine Aquarium and Adrian Bartlett and Jacques Marchal who offer their support to make the event such a great success.

For more information on the Plymouth Seafood Festival, go to:

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September 2017 27

Eating & Drinking Local Directory Pub Food

Bars & Cocktail Annabel’s Steinbeck and Shaw The Slug and Lettuce The Dairy The Refectory Tigermilk

Vauxhall Street, Plymouth Barbican Leisure Park 19 Princess St, Plymouth 25-27 Bretonside, Plymouth 60 South Street, Plymouth Millbay Road, Plymouth

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1 Derrys Cross, Plymouth Colebrook Inn, Plympton 10-11 Southside St, Plymouth 9 Tin Ln, Plymouth 13 South Street, Plymouth 3 Buckland Terrace, Yelverton 115 Fore Street, Kingsbridge 203 Billacombe Rd, Plymstock Top Floor, Southside St, Plymouth 1 Radford Park Rd, Plymstock 14 Athenaeum Street, Plymouth 75 Hoe Rd, Plymouth 80 Royal Parade, Plymouth 57-59 North Hill, Plymouth

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Fish & Seafood Restaurants Catch 22 Faringdon Fish Bar Kingfisher Oyster Shack Platters Rockfish The Samphire Bush The Seafood & Pasta Bar The Village Restaurant

6 Quay Road, Plymouth 58 Faringdon Road, Plymouth 6 Glen Road, Plympton Stakes Hill, Kingsbridge 12 The Barbican, Plymouth Sutton Harbour, Plymouth 36 Admiralty Street 10 Quay Road, Plymouth 32 Southside Street, Plymouth

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35 Church St, Ivybridge Princess Street, Plymouth Royal William Yard, Plymouth

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Greek Restaurants Lanterns Meze Grill The Grecian Taverna The Leandra Zeus

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Indian Restaurants Cafe Indiya Ganges and Gurkha Himalayan Spice Mombay Brasserie Nibana Shapla Balti Cusine The Curry Corner The Eastern Eye The Spice Well

18 Church St, Stoke, Plymouth 36 Bretonside, Plymouth 31 New Street, Plymouth Penrose House, 4 Lockyers Quay 9 Morshead Rd, Crownhill 137 Ridgeway, Plymouth 1-3 Mutley Plain, Plymouth 57 Notte Street, Plymouth 18 Buckwell Street, Plymouth

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30-33 Derrys Cross, Plymouth Barbican Leisure Park, Plymouth 19 Princess St, Plymouth 9 Market Avenue, Plymouth 16 Barbican Approach, Plymouth 36 Mayflower Street, Plymouth Royal William Yard, Plymouth

28 September 2017

The Westward Inn Beefeater Rose and Crown The Bank The Britannia The Boringdon Arms The Burrator Inn The Chaddlewood The Elburton Inn The Fishermans Arms The Jack Rabbit The Miners The Royal Oak The Ship Inn The Ship

Lee Mill Bridge, Ivybridge 300 Plymouth Road, Plymouth Market Street, Yealmpton Old George St, Plymouth 1 Wolseley Road, Stoke, Plymouth Boringdon Rd, Plympton Dousland, Yelverton 100 Glen Road, Plympton 221 Elburton Road, Plymstock 31 Lambhay St, Plymouth 8-9 Howeston Road, Plymouth Hemerdon, Plympton Meavy, Yelverton Noss Mayo, South Devon Quay Road, Plymouth

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Speciality Restaurants Arribas B-Bar Blues Bar & Grill Chiquito Ed’s Diner Fishbone Restaurant Heaven JDs Grill Koishii Las Iguanas Nandos River Cottage Samphire (V) Seco Lounge Shirley Valentine’s Sizzall The Dock The Mission The Stable Yo Sushi Yukisan Wagamama

56-58 Notte Street, The Barbican Barbican Theatre, Plymouth 8 The Parade, The Barbican Barbican Leisure Park, Plymouth 1 Charles Street, Plymouth 1 William Prance Rd, Crownhill 162 Exeter Street, Plymouth 17 Derrys Cross, Plymouth 101 Mayflower St, Plymouth Royal William Yard, Plymouth 15 Old Town Street, Plymouth Royal William Yard, Plymouth 111 Mayflower St, Plymouth 4 Royal William Rd, Plymouth 12 New Street, The Barbican 15 Derrys Cross, Plymouth King Point Marina, Brunel Way Sir John Hawkins Square, Plymouth Vauxhall Street, Plymouth 1 Charles Street, Plymouth 51 Notte Street, Plymouth Royal William Yard, Plymouth

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Traditional Restaurants Barbican Steak House Barbican Kitchen Boringdon Park Grosvenor Casino Innfusion Restaurant Jolly Jacks Kitley House Langdon Court Lord Louis Moorland Garden Hotel Moorland Hotel Quay 33 The Dome Rock Salt Cafe & Brasserie Steak and Omelette The Artillery Tower The Bridge The China House The Dock The Foxhound Inn The Quayside The Treasury The Treby Arms

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61 Notte Street, Plymouth 60 Southside St, Plymouth 55 Plymbridge Rd, Plympton 15 Derrys Cross, Plymouth Jurys Inn, Exeter Street, Plymouth Mayflower Marina, Richmond Walk Kitley Estate, Yealmpton Down Thomas, Plymouth Glen Road, Plympton Yeoland Down, Yelverton Wotter, Shaugh Prior, Plymouth 33 Southside St, Plymouth The Hoe, Plymouth 31 Stonehouse St, Plymouth 116-118 Cornwall St, Plymouth Durnford Street, Plymouth Shaw Way, Mount Batten Sutton Harbour, Plymouth King Point Marina, Plymouth Kingsbridge Road, Brixton Quay Road, Plymouth Catherine St, Plymouth Sparkwell, Plympton

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recipe from bbcgoodfood.com

Coconut And Strawberry Custards

image from unsplash.com

Fruit fools with an exotic streak!

Ingredients

Serves 6

• 150ml good quality ready made custard • 100g creamed coconut in a block • 500g small strawberries • 1 tsp lime juice • 85g icing sugar • 250g carton mascarpone • Finely grated zest of 2 limes

Method 1.

Pour the custard into a small, heavy based pan and grate in the creamed coconut. Heat gently until the coconut dissolves, then remove from the heat and leave to cool.

Hull and halve two-thirds of the strawberries and put to one side. Blitz the rest with the lime juice and 2 tbsp of the icing sugar.

3. Tip the mascarpone into a large bowl and beat in the cooled coconut custard. Add half of the lime zestand the remaining icing sugar and mix well until smooth.

Recipe from: www.bbcgoodfood.com Image from: www.pinchofyum.com

Plymouth & South Hams Leading Lifestyle Magazine

4. Take 6 large wine glasses/tumblers and spoon a little of the custard mixture into each. Follow with a layer of strawberry halves. Pour over the strawberry sauce.

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Oakley’s Coaches We meet Paul Oakley, who along with the help of his wife Michelle runs Oakley’s Coaches

Signs Express A year after our first visit, we catch up with Chris Reilly at Signs Express and meet his newest team member

INS! WM&

ers Vouch

Plympton Chamber We visit Stella Goodman to talk all things Christmas ahead of Plympton Chamber switching on the Ridgeway lights

Plymouth Seafood Festival The city prepares to cook up a storm this month!

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Devon and Cornwall is home to plenty of beautiful beaches, but around the South coast only a relatively small proportion allow dogs all year round. The good news is that the vast majority of beaches welcome responsible dog owners outside of the summer (1st October to 30th April). We have compiled a list of the best beaches we could find that allow our well behaved furry friends all year round! Beesands Beach- kingsbridge Situated near the South Devon town of Kingsbridge is Beesands Beach. As you stroll along this shingle beach you will be able to watch the boats roll in with the catch of the day and find a new favourite stick nestling among the rocks on the beach. Allowing dogs for the entire year, Beesands beach is a mile in length and backed by fields so there is plenty of space to stretch legs.

Soar Mill Cove- Salcombe This small, remote beach is a genuine rural idyll and one of the prettiest in Devon. Soar Mill Cove is surrounded by dramatic rocks and cliffs and the craggy heath of Bolt Head. To the back of the cove are the gentle, rolling green hills of the South Hams. Thurlestone beach- Salcombe Thulestone offers the visitor two sheltered sandy beaches to choose from. Leasefoot, the smaller of the two lies next to Thurlestone Golf Club, while the larger Thurlestone Sands is just along the coast, closer to South Milton. Thurlestone Sands is a popular location for a wide variety of watersports.

Perranporth Beach- Perranporth together with Perran Sands, makes for miles of golden sands. Excellent for a long beach walk with your dog. Backed by steep Cornish cliffs both are popular with families, surfers and beach goers. Perran Sands has a seasonal cafe, Perranporth beach has excellent facilities and there is even a dog friendly pub, the Watering Hole, right on the beach itself! Whitsand Bay- Saltash Whitsand Bay Beach offers four miles of sand and rocks with shallow shelving beaches and rocky coves - note access from the parking areas is difficult down the cliff path with steps and uneven paths, also beware of the incoming tide as risk of being cut off. Four beaches make up Whitsand Bay.

Harlyn Bay- Padstow Considered one of the best family beaches in Cornwall, Harlyn Bay is a wide and spacious beach of yellow sand and pebbles with plenty of interesting rock pools backed by dunes and situated on the eastern side of Trevose Head, just west of Padstow. The perfect day out for your four-legged friends. Seaton Beach- Looe A short drive from Plymouth, this lovely family beach with a large cafe, shop and toilets, set in a quieter part of Cornwall has everything you need for a memorable day out with the pooch. The large beach of sand with small pebbles is south facing and located at the entrance of the River Seaton valley.

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What’sOn

September 2017 You will be spoilt for choice with a huge selection of delicious food stalls to enjoy, and the children will love the crabbing competition along the harbour. For more information on this event please visit: visitplymouth.co.uk AUTUMN FAMILY FUN DOG SHOW 17th September, 11am-3pm Gables Farm

The Invisible Circus are at Royal William Yard for a Weekend of Wonders

WEDDING EXTRAVAGANZA Sunday 17th September Plymouth Guildhall Up to 100 exhibitors, catwalk shows, gowns from over 40 bridal collections, complimentary bubbly, free gift bag for every bride. Plymouth’s premier bridal show, not to be missed! Tickets are £3 in advance and £5 on the day OPEN AIR CINEMA: WONDERWOMAN Saturday 9th September Royal William Yard An Amazon princess finds her idyllic life on an island occupied only by female warriors interrupted when a pilot crashlands nearby. After rescuing him, she learns that World War I is engulfing the planet, and vows to use her superpowers to restore peace. That description doesn’t really get anywhere near describing the blockbuster brilliance of this film. Tickets are £8, but there is also the option of buying VIP tickets at £17 GERRY COTTLES MAGIC CIRCUS Throughout September Central Park New for 2017, Gerry Cottle is back with his sensational ’The Magic Circus’– a high-energy family show featuring a new generation of vibrant young performers. Keep an eye on our social media for shows in 2017 where we bring you a high-energy family show featuring a new generation of vibrant young performers

against an infectious soundtrack. Gerry calls upon his 50 years in circus to provide an awe-inspiring line-up of the world’s greatest acts in circus, comedy and magic for LIVE entertainment to thrill and astonish all ages. WEEKEND OF WONDERS 16th and 17th of September Royal William Yard The invisible circus comes to the yard. Back for a third year this event is a huge crowd pleaser. Street entertainers work 7 pitches around the yard, and the award winning Good Food Market is in the factory Cooperage. A high wire walker wows the crowds by crossing the Harbour, on foot and by bike as well as a grand finale which involved performers on the wire 10m above the ground. PLYMOUTH SEAFOOD FESTIVAL

Gables are holding a fun family dog show this month. Entry is £1.50 per dog and the show includes categories such as; best puppy, best trick, best rescued, waggiest tail and best fancy dress! All 1st to 3rd place winners will win a professional pet portrait taken on the day by Furlap photography, leading UK dog photographer. APPLE AND CIDER DAY Sunday 24th September Saltram Celebrate the apple harvest with us by helping to press apples from the Saltram orchard to make scrummy apple juice and cider. Enjoy other rural skills demonstrations and entertainment. Traditional food and drink available and children’s activities. The event runs from 10am-4pm, and the event is free. PUPPIES & PIZZA NETWORKING 6th of September 1pm-3pm Devonport Guildhall Spend the afternoon networking over lunch and refreshments with professionals, creatives and local businesses from around Devon and get to spend time with a group of Guide Dogs and their volunteers!

16th and 17th September The Barbican and Sutton Harbour Plymouth with come alive on the 16th and 17th of September, with a celebration of locally sourced and sustainably caught, high quality seafood. Now in its sixth year, the festival will be supporting the fishing industry by offering a weekend full of delicious dishes for all the family to enjoy as well as hands on activities, including children’s cookery fun. There are many reasons to celebrate our fishing industry, Plymouth was the first in the world to be awarded the blue fish status for its commitment to sourcing sustainable fish.

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Apple and Cider Day at Saltram

September 2017 33

GLOBAL FIRM GENERATES EXCITING EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Sitel UK, part of the Acticall Sitel group; originated in the US 30 years ago. Since then, their rapid growth plan has led to the Company having over 75,000 employees across the Globe, situated over 150 sites in 22 different countries. We speak to Tim Chapman, Talent Acquisition Manager for the UK and Ireland; and Kirstie Wright, HR Manager for Plymouth, to discuss the massive employment opportunities made available when Sitel decided to take up premises in The Ship, an iconic building at threat in Derriford.

itel are one of the world’s leading outsourcing providers of customer experience management. Originating in Nashville, Tennessee in 1985; a call centre was opened. Tim Chapman, Talent Acquisition Manager, tells us of these humble beginnings. “Essentially it was quite a small operation, and it just started to expand across the United States”.

Tim tells us that Sitel deal with both inbound and outbound calls, and stresses the importance of being flexible to their client’s needs. “We’ve got agents who are specifically trained for social media, but what is key for us is that our staff are multi skilled. That way, as the landscapes change they can adapt and flex to their clients’ needs”.

An obvious expert in their field, Sitel work very much in a consultancy capacity for a range of high end clients, including John Lewis. Kirstie, HR Manager for Plymouth explains a little more; “There’s the insight element to what we do. As a business we are very good at managing the data around the customer service experience, and feeding this back to our clients in a way that can be used to manage the business”.

“

We’ve got the infrastructure for those clients to come on board and be assured that they’re going to get a good service from the outset

Sitel opened its doors to the first associates on April 18th this year, so they are very new in terms of being an operational site. Kirstie tells us that they made the decision to set up premises in Plymouth after much deliberation. “There’s clearly a lot of regeneration going on in the city, it seems like the place to be. We have a sister site in Exeter which has been phenomenally successful- so this was a really good springboard to explore other southwest opportunities”. Tim tells us that Sitel have a lot of fantastic community partners in Plymouth, Plymouth Council, the Job Centre and the University to name a few. “There has been a real buzz and a real want for Sitel to come and do well in the area. We feel as

34 September 2017

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a business that in a lot of rural areas there aren’t always job opportunities coming in abundance, so we want to invest in those local communities.”

“

As a city to partner in, Plymouth has been one of the most successful launches that I’ve been a part of so far. We invest in and have a reciprocal relationship with the community at large, so it’s been a really collaborative approach. Plymouth has been such a good example of a community getting behind a new business

“

Because Sitel are an industry leader, they have the skills and expertise that underpin the options they give to the business, and they can provide support in taking that route forward. Tim explains that Sitel’s work with John Lewis in the Plymouth branch has been a fantastic partnership, and they are really seeing the benefits of sharing best practice.

In response to this, Sitel have their own in house progression and development programmes. “When we look at our associate satisfaction surveys, a lot of what we see coming back is our training and development programmes are what sets us apart. We are not compartmentalising people and saying; you’re only qualified for this, we’re saying we are giving you the skills needed to progress in the Kirstie Wright- HR Manager for Plymouth, and future, not just with Sitel- but in the Tim Chapman- Talent Aquisition Manager for customer service arena as a whole”. the UK and Ireland

Of course there has to be a mention of the building choice for their new premises. The Ship, built in 1993 by leading architect Sir Nicholas Grimshaw, played host to the former Plymouth Herald offices. When they decided to move in early 2003, the Grade II listed building came under threat of being demolished unless a new buyer could be found.

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The impressive view over Dartmoor from the Crows Nest

“

The Ship is a modern, contemporary building. It’s in a great location, people can commute easily; you start breaking that down and it’s a no brainer that we had to come here really. People love the nautical theme!

Sitel have generated huge employment opportunities for the city, with just over 200 employees currently working at The Ship, Kirstie tells us Sitel have only just started their growth plan for the business. “Our approach to recruitment has always been direct; we have that model put in place because we want future employees talking to current employees, with no middleman. As we head for Christmas we have a huge range of job roles available, to help with the rush for our retail clients. We had a recruitment day on August 19th, and plan on having many more in the future”.

“When it comes to our community partners, we never go to them and ask for potential employees. It’s more a case of, well what can we do for you in return, and that’s where the council has been really great. We’ve done a lot of work together to identify what kinds of skills gaps are in the local community, and what we can do to bridge those gaps”. Kirstie and Tim want to stress that Sitel have great internal progression opportunities, something which they have both experienced firsthand. Tim tells us he joined the business in 2014 as a secondment in the recruitment department. “I had just moved back from Brighton at the time, so I joined for three months- in

November which was one of the busiest times!” Tim was fortunate that his role was made permanent and he has been able to progress from there. A similar route was taken by HR Manager Kirstie; “I joined the business back in 2001, as a part time call advisor having just started my family. I had an opportunity to take a secondment into HR team to help at a particularly busy time, I absolutely loved it and was lucky enough to secure a permanent position.” Kirstie tells us that not only did she feel she benefitted from formal education, but also through the support of her team members at the time. So what do Sitel look for in potential employees? Tim explains that the general rule of thumb in any industry is Will. “If someone has the will to do a good job; that is more important than the skill to begin with. We can teach the skills, but having the right attitude is something that can’t be taught. We want people who are engaged by what they are doing” If someone’s got that ambition, Sitel recognises that and helps them to develop.

“

Tim tells us that they did look at different locations, but what won them over was the building itself. “It’s such an impressive, iconic building. Make no mistake; there has been a lot of hard work in getting the building to an operational state. As soon as we mentioned the Ship, there was a real desire to for someone to come in and keep it alive, and that really decided it for us”. Tim says it’s amazing how a 24 year old building can adapt to a modern call centre environment, and has the flexibility to grow as a space.

About 70% of our team managers are there through internal progression, so many of them started out as call advisors

Tim finishes by telling us “recruitment is important, making sure that you are recruiting the very best talent; but actually what we’ve recognised is, we want our website and social media to not only attract possible candidates, but celebrate the achievements of our current associates. We want them to be proud of the work they do. It’s to make sure they know that they are working for a company that recognises their successes”.

For more information and current vacancies please visit sitel.com

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September 2017 35

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RESOLVE I INNOVATE I SERVE I EXCEL www.GAsolicitors.com I enquiries@GAsolicitors.com YOUR BUSINESS

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September 2017 37

BUSINESS PROFILE Standing proudly at the top of Crownhill village is a solicitor’s firm which has served its community for almost 40 years. Headed by Stephen Hall, who became a director in 2008- Evans Harvey’s warm and friendly atmosphere is clearly the reason behind their ongoing success. 7 months after our previous visit earlier this year, Evans Harvey have big plans underway…

vans Harvey offer a full range of services, including property and conveyancing, wills, tax and probate, family and matrimonial law, personal injury, company and commercial, employment, litigation and inheritance claims.

a clinic on a Tuesday 5pm-6pm which covers general matters.

The team’s combined experience well exceeds 100 years, and Stephen works closely with them having become a Director in 2008 after joining the practice the previous year as a solicitor. He tells us that since taking over in 2011, the practice has gone from strength to strength.

“

I think our organic growth has happened because of the way in which we deal with clients. We don’t stand on ceremony here

Stephen tells us that Evans Harvey still offer home visits to customers that may need it, rarely are any fees charged for this service.

Evans Harvey hold free drop-in clinics during the week. On a Tuesday 10am-12pm they deal with Wills, Trusts, LPAs and Probate, and on a Wednesday 10am-12pm they will deal with family law matters. They also offer

To ensure that their customer service is the best that it can be, clients are asked to complete a customer satisfaction form, and for every form filled in the firm will donate money to St Luke’s Hospice. Stephen is proud to tell to us that the feedback is 99% positive; “Because it’s generally positive feedback, it makes any negative experiences quite stark. We will then have a team meeting and use this as a means to address what we can improve on”. Evans Harvey is made up of over 15 loyal staff members; however, this is nowhere near enough for their ever increasing work load. “We were looking for other premises purely because our current place isn’t big enough”.

Stephen Hall - Director

However, the business has just recently

completed on the purchase of their building- meaning an exciting renovation and a well needed extension is underway! Evans Harvey have been situated in their current building for over 35 years, but have only recently been able to purchase it. This means they are now able to plan an extension at the back of the building, to expand the available space and create an even better environment for both staff and customers.

“

It’s a three stage plan really, buy the building, which we have done; build the extension, which would then enable us to recruit more team members

Stephen explains that they are having an 8 week break to settle down from the purchase, before the planning and renovations take place. “We are aiming to get the ball rolling around Christmas time, in the hope that it will be completed early next year. It’s a chicken and egg scenario; we need to recruit, but can’t unless we have more space!”

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Great Blue Hole, Belize

- EVANS HARVEY SOLICITORS “We have recently acquired a new team member, due to securing a block contract for conveyancing through Lloyds Bank. Sarah, who is a Chartered Legal Executive dealing with residential conveyancing, joined the team earlier this year. However, Stephen tells us that a lot of his staff members are sharing office space, and it isn’t ideal. “We have one interview room, which we are planning on upgrading to four. We also want to create a boardroom, nothing too grand but it will enable us to have easier meetings”. The expansion plans on the table will enable the firm to broaden the type of cases they deal with. “We offer services to the community, but we are also looking to offer commercial business and commercial conveyancing as well; probable tax and finance advice”. Evans Harvey’s popularity is growing, as is their work load. “We seem to have gained a reputation for inheritance cases. Although I deal with wills and probate, I have a speciality in civil litigation, in particular Chancery work”. Stephen explains he is spread thin now; “I’m snowed under, so there’s definitely scope for people to come and join us!”

“

We do want it to grow, but we don’t want it to explode out of what is at its core. It can lose identity. We are very much a family firm; in as much as we all feel like family. We look after each other, it just works

“We work hard but we play hard and I think that reflects in the attitudes of our staff. A great team is all you need. If you get too big, you lose that identity and it becomes very artificial and formalised. We don’t want to lose our family feel, that’s where our strengths lie”.

Stephen tells us Evans Harvey have a lovely receptionist called Sam who is great on the phone. “If we have customers call up and are obviously distressed, she is the perfect person to calm them down”.

Deborah Best, who is Company Secretary as well as office manager- is heading up a new updated website for the firm, due to go live soon. Stephen says “She’s very good; I don’t know what I would do without her. Always the way isn’t it- always the ladies behind the men! She’s brilliant”.

From left to right: Deborah Best, Stephen Hall and new team member, Sarah

Government legislation is constantly changing within the industry, and Stephen explains that you have to have continued education. “In our profession, we have to have 16 hours a year of compulsory education, but now this has changed so you only have to self certify”. The staff at Evans Harvey keep up with the 16 hours, even though it is no longer compulsory. They attend seminars and complete courses, and each department will set themselves a training target annually. “We never let our training slip, you can’t afford to. We take it very seriously”. Stephen is also Chairman of the Crownhill Networking Group, who serves to provide service to the local community and also to address issues backed by the local council. “We also promote the Christmas lights in Crownhill, we want it to be bigger and better this year.” Each year, the Christmas lights are in aid of a cause of choice- as voted for by the group. “This year the group are doing it in aid of dementia. We’ve arranged for all of the businesses in Crownhill to work towards becoming dementia friendly, so you can come and be assessed and have a sticker in your window recognising your efforts”.

In regards to future plans, it is clear that Evans Harvey have some very busy months ahead, juggling a huge renovation whilst still delivering their first class customer service. Stephen tell us that they are looking to recruit younger people into the firm; “We want young, ambitious people who will take the firm forward”. Stephen finishes by telling us that he is looking to make sure Evans Harvey is here for decades to come, it is not short term. “It’s a very happy team and we work extremely hard. We’re incredibly dedicated and everybody has the client’s interest at heart. I’m very proud of Evans Harvey, and it’s all down to the staff and their dedication.”

Evans Harvey Solicitors

Call - 01752 785715 www.evansharveylaw.co.uk 37 & 39 Morshead Road, Crownhill, PL6 5AD

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September 2017 39

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September 2017 41

IT Starring Finn Wolfhard, Bill Skarsgard

guide

Your guide to the films hitting cinemas this month

Set in the summer of 1989- In the town of Derry, the local kids are disappearing one by one, leaving behind bloody remains. In a place called ‘The Barrens’ a group of 7 kids are united by their horrifying and strange encounters with an evil, shape shifting demonic clown and their determination to kill it.

Released: 7th September

AMERICAN ASSASSIN

KINGSMAN: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE

Starring Michael Keaton, Dylan O Brien and Taylor Kitsch

Starring Tarron Egerton, Channing Tatum, Colin Firth

Mitch lost his parents to a car accident, and his girlfriend to a terrorist attack. Seeking revenge, he is enlisted by CIA Deputy Director Irene Kennedy as a black ops recruit. Kennedy then assigns cold war veteran Stan Hurley to train Mitch. Together, they will later on investigate a wave of apparently random attacks on military and civilian targets.

With their headquarters destroyed and the world held hostage, members of Kingsman find new allies when they discover a spy organization in the US known as Statesman. In an adventure that tests their strength and wits, the elite agents from both sides of the pond band together to battle a ruthless enemy and save the day, something that is becoming a bit of a habit for Eggsy.

Released: 14th September

Released: 28th September

ANIMAL CRACKERS

GOODBYE CHRISTOPHER ROBIN

Starring Emily Blunt, Sylvester Stallone

Starring Margot Robbie, Domnhall Gleeson

Owen Huntingtons life is one continuous loop.Then, one day Owen discovers his long lost uncle has left his circus to Owen. What could have been a blessing, soon unfolds into a curse as the circus is a complete disaster. But then something magical happens, Owen discovers a box of animal crackers that enables the user to become any animal in the box!

A rare glimpse into the special relationship between beloved children’s author A.A.Milne and his son Christopher Robin, whose son’s toy inspired the magical world of Winnie the Pooh. Christopher and his family are swept up in the international success of the books, but with the eyes of the world on Christopher Robin, what will the cost be to the family?

Released: 15th September

Released: 29th September

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