OM Plymouth Magazine 180 May 2024

BRYAN ADAMS

When a global rockstar comes to Plymouth on a UK tour, OM Magazine gets the exclusive interview

Mental Health Awareness Week

13th - 19th May 2024

Get Around 1 in 5 adults will experience some form of depression in early 2024

Help Today.

“We support chosen charity partners who are actively practising consultancy and research to make a change by providing support, mental analysis and improving results.”

spread awareness, donate, get involved... visit: www.mentalhealthawareness.org.uk

Mental Health Awareness (MHA) is a not for profit organisation. All of the money raised or donated to MHA is used in pursuing the organisation's objectives and supporting our chosen charity partners.

ay is here and as the weather is beginning to warm up we can feel the promise of summer emerging.

In the May edition of OM, we have some very interesting editorials and an exciting exclusive interview with Bryan Adams.

We catch up with Sarah and Sean Gundry from Ultracardiac and see what’s been going on at the Tor View Clinical Rooms over the last 12 months.

With the Plymouth Summer Sessions just around the corner, we had the honour of interviewing Friday’s headliner, Bryan Adams. We discuss his UK tour, favourite songs and his links to Plymstock.

Plymouth is welcoming a new addition to the high street, Continue Arcades. Learn more about the gaming hub on page 20.

This month, we have given tips and advice on storing your produce correctly to ensure you get the best out of your fruit and veg.

And a massive thank you to Vault 53 for offering a wonderful cocktail-making and distillery tour experience!

I hope you enjoy this edition!

KITCHENS WITH SOUL

over the last sixteen years, kF kitchens plymouth have refused to stand still. With the growth of knowledge, experience, and tools available to them, what has resulted is a family-run business that can create your perfect, dream kitchen. For a glimpse into what opportunities they can create, their studio at Faraday mill presents brand new, top of the range working appliances and innovative designs.

Val’s ‘joyful’ kitchen is a dream come true

“We’ve lived here for 10 years and what we had before was totally different. The re-organisation makes the room a lot bigger, and when I’m cooking, everything now feels ergonomically correct. It’s revolutionised how I cook.”

no compromise needed with k f kitchens

“From the minute we walked in, it was a completely different experience, the customer service was far superior. Nathan went through all the ball-park costings for everything, item by item, so it was transparent from the start, we knew what we were going to get and how much it would cost. They wanted a small deposit, and payment for the kitchen when it arrived. There was no big sell and no requirement to pay in full, up front.”

“They are everything you would want a kitchen company to be, they were absolutely faultless. We were terribly worried about having this work done. It’s a lot of money to spend, and you’ve got to get it right. But the way that KF Kitchens handled it, they put us at ease. And we are absolutely delighted with the outcome.”

Quality and customer service at K F Kitchens

“What I liked about the process was that you could go down to see Nathan and Derinda as many times as you like, they were always willing to see you. They allow flexibility, you could change or add things, so you have the time and space to think over a period of weeks. You don’t have to make a final decision until two to three weeks before the production. That’s important, in getting the final design that you want. And then the work and fitting went very smoothly, we were very pleased with the workmanship.”

KF Kitchens Plymouth is an ambitious, local, family business that push’s the boundaries of what is possible in a kitchen. From the moment you enter their studio at Faraday Mill, everything becomes possible and available to you, to achieve your dream kitchen. How is this possible? Book a consultation in their studio, either by email (enquiries@kfkitchens.co.uk) or phone (01752 255022), and make your first steps towards your dream kitchen today!

Fresh Fridge, Fresh PrOdUCe

A guide to storing your fruits and veggies like a pro

Welcome to the wonderful world of fridge farming, where crispness reigns supreme and wilted veggies are a thing of the past! This month, we’re diving deep into the art of storing fruits and vegetables correctly in your fridge. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these insider tips and examples will help you make the most of your produce, keeping it fresh, flavorful, and ready for any culinary adventure.

let’s start with the basics: temperature control. your fridge is like a wellregulated kingdom, and maintaining the right temperature is key to preserving your bounty. aim for a temperature range of 1.6°c to 4.4°c to ensure optimal freshness without risking frostbite.

now, onto the star of the show—the crisper drawer. think of it as your produce’s sanctuary, where humidity levels are carefully calibrated to extend its shelf life. But beware: not all fruits and veggies play well together. For instance, leafy greens like spinach and kale thrive in high humidity, while moisture-sensitive items like berries prefer a drier environment. By segregating your produce accordingly, you’ll prevent premature spoilage and keep your fridge garden flourishing.

Take lettuce, for example. It loves a bit of moisture to stay crisp and fresh. Store it in the high-humidity drawer, away from ethylene-producing fruits like apples and bananas. This will help maintain its crispness and prevent

it from turning limp too soon.

now, let’s talk about ethylene—a natural gas emitted by certain fruits and vegetables as they ripen. While ethylene is the secret sauce behind the ripening process, it can also accelerate the decay of nearby produce. take apples, for example—they’re notorious ethylene emitters. By storing them separately from ethylene-sensitive items like lettuce and carrots, you’ll prevent your veggies from turning into mush before their time.

and what about packaging? We’ve all been guilty of tossing our produce into flimsy plastic bags, only to discover a mushy mess days later. But fear not! there’s a better way. invest in breathable

containers or reusable produce bags that allow for proper airflow while keeping your fruits and veggies protected. Your produce will thank you—and so will the planet.

For delicate berries like strawberries and raspberries, proper storage is key to extending their shelf life. Instead of leaving them in their original packaging, transfer them to a breathable container lined with kitchen roll to absorb excess moisture. This will help prevent mold growth and keep your berries fresh for longer.

And what about washing? While it’s essential to rinse your produce before consuming it, washing it before storage can backfire. Excess moisture can lead to mold growth and spoilage, particularly for delicate items like berries and herbs. Instead, wait until you’re ready to use them before giving them a quick rinse under cold water. Your produce will stay fresher for longer, and you’ll avoid any unwanted surprises.

Let’s discuss cleaning your produce for a moment. As we know, despite their outward appearance, fruits and vegetables can harbor unseen dirt, bacteria, and pesticide residues that can compromise your health and the quality of your meals. Here’s a simple yet effective cleaning routine:

Begin with a gentle rinse under cold running water. For tougherskinned produce, such as apples or cucumbers, a soft brush or sponge can help remove stubborn dirt. For leafy greens and delicate berries, a quick rinse is sufficient, as prolonged soaking can lead to water absorption and loss of freshness. After washing, ensure your produce is thoroughly

dried to prevent mold growth—a clean towel or air drying works wonders.

The debate among experts using baking soda to clean your produce has been doing the rounds, with considerations spanning its effectiveness, safety, and impact on taste and texture. Its a mild abrasive, it can effectively remove dirt, pesticides, and certain bacteria from the surface of fruits and vegetables. Additionally, baking soda has been shown in some studies to reduce pesticide residues, particularly on conventionally grown produce. Its ability to neutralise acidity further adds to its appeal as a cleaning agent.

contaminants.

Now, let’s talk shelf space. While the crisper drawer is a valuable asset, not all produce belongs there. Items like avocados, citrus fruits, and tomatoes prefer a slightly warmer environment, making them better suited for shelf storage. Just be sure to keep them away from the back of the fridge, where temperatures tend to fluctuate the most.

However, concerns exist regarding the potential drawbacks of using baking soda. Some individuals report that it leaves a residue or alters the taste and texture of certain produce, especially those with delicate skins or flavors. Moreover, there are considerations regarding health risks, particularly related to sodium intake. While baking soda is generally safe when used in moderation and properly rinsed off, excessive sodium consumption can be problematic for individuals on low-sodium diets or with certain health conditions.

Ultimately, the decision to use baking soda as a produce cleaner depends on personal preference, the type of produce being cleaned, and individual health considerations. While it may provide an extra layer of cleaning for some fruits and vegetables, it is not always necessary. For many types of produce, a thorough rinse under cold water and gentle scrubbing with a brush suffice to remove dirt and surface

And finally, rotation. It’s easy to forget about that bag of spinach hiding in the back of the fridge until it’s too late. To prevent waste and ensure you’re using your produce before it goes bad, make it a habit to rotate your stock regularly. Use the “first in, first out” rule to prioritise older items before they reach their expiration date.

So, there you have it—a crash course in fridge farming 101. With these tips and examples in your arsenal, you’ll be well-equipped to keep your fruits and veggies fresh and fabulous. Say goodbye to wilted greens and mushy berries, and hello to a fridge that’s bursting with vibrant colors and flavors. Happy farming, friends!

Now, who’s ready to put their newfound knowledge to the test?

Let’s whip up some delicious dishes using our freshly stored produce and embark on a culinary adventure like no other. Bon appétit!

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BRYAN ADAMS

With the amazing “Plymouth Summer Sessions” just around the corner, starting in June it only seemed fitting we got an exclusive OM interview with headliner, Bryan Adams. We talk things tour, the UK crowd and his links to Plymstock.

Bryan Adams, among the global whirlwind of his 15th studio album, “So Happy It Hurts,” is hitting stages around the world. And nestled in his tour itinerary is one very notable stop: the Plymouth Summer Sessions on June 14th, where he’ll take centre stage on The Hoe. It only felt right to catch up with the man himself for an exclusive interview with OM.

Q: So, you’re coming here as part of your UK tour, So Happy It Hurts, Where does the tour start?

it started quite a while ago with the release of the album in 2022. tours don’t really have a logical end until another album comes out, so in the meantime whilst So happy it hurts has been going on, i also released the live at the Royal albert hall boxset and i’m about to do another one in may this year. all this keeps going while the album is still ticking along.

Q: You mentioned The Royal Albert Hall, was that for the 40th anniversary of Cuts Like A Knife? What is it like to perform there?

that’s right and we’re going to do that same for the 40th anniversary for Reckless in may this year. it’s a really good venue, that’s why we keep going back. it’s a really good vibe and it’s unlike any other building in the world.

Q: When you’re doing your live performances, do you have a favourite song you look forward to the most?

Well, i’ve got 16 albums, so there’s a lot of songs i really like doing. i like the songs that everyone else likes really, i like to pepper it up with a couple of the new tracks and introduce So happy it hurts.

Q: In So Happy It Hurts, what did it mean to you to have your mum feature in the music video?

i really wanted her to be part of it, she’s 96 years old now and she can no longer travel with me on tour, so it’s nice to have her with me all the time in some way.

Q: What’s it like playing in England compared to anywhere else in the world for you?

england has always been a really good place for us, particularly after i toured with tina turner. things just changed after that. one thing about the uk is that they always embrace the music as well, which has been amazing. there are songs that have been massive hits in the uk that never even got played in america, so i really love playing in the uk

Q: Everything I Do was number 1 in the UK for 16 weeks and is still the longest unbroken run for any song to remain number 1 in the UK. Did you have any idea the impact that song would have?

it was basically number 1 everywhere in the world and after that song

“One thing about the UK is that they always embrace the music aswell, which has been amazing ”

came out, we could play literally anywhere; Nepal, Pakistan, Vietnam, we played everywhere and it was incredible. I just thought it was a really pretty song, I had no idea what impact it would have.

Q: We found an interesting fact about you and your links to Plymstock, can you tell us a bit more about that?

Yes, so my grandparents lived in Plymstock and my mum is from Lyme Regis. My grandfather was from Gillingham and my grandmother was Maltese, but they came to Plymstock sometime after the Second World War where my grandfather built the house. It was a small little house and I remember we used to visit them there and it was one of the coldest houses I’d ever been in. I remember sitting in the front room around the coal fire to warm up. But yes, I would say there are some roots! I do have one recollection about the South West, it was always quite rainy!

Q: How did you get into the music industry?

I really owe it to my mum for letting me get out there and do it. She let me leave school when I was 15 to join a band and we started playing in clubs and got into gigs and studio work which kind of saved me really. The gigging wasn’t paying anything and it was quite audious as sometimes we’d do 3 to 4 sets a night. Whereas doing studio work, we’d go in for an hour and get some work and get paid. I dropped out of the club scene around 17 years old and just started writing songs and doing studio work, that’s where things kicked off really. There was no master plan, I just needed to pay my rent. All thanks to my dear old mum, we laugh about it because I honestly didn’t have two pennies to rub together. I was completely and utterly broke. When I met a musician called Jim Vallance, who I ended up writing a bunch of songs with, I had to borrow bus fare from him just so that I could get to him the next day and that’s what it was like.

Q: When you’re not performing, what do you like to do in your spare time?

Time is pretty full up with a combination of making records, I am now an independent artist, I don’t have a record label, I don’t have a manager and so a lot of time is spent working out what we’re going to do next. I have 40 people that I take on tour with me so I want to make sure our tours continue. We do about 100 shows a year around the world but in between that I spend time with my family and making new music.

Q: You’re also a portrait photographer and you’ve photographed people like Kate Moss and the Queen! How did you get into that?

I just started doing it because I liked it. I used to carry a camera with me on tour and document my sessions in the studio and all sorts. That then led to taking photographs of friends, some of them actors and models and some of my pictures got published in magazines, which led to further work.

Q: How did you get to photograph Queen Elizabeth?

I had an agent in London, they’re called Camera Press, I am still with them, and they asked me if I wanted to represent Canada for her Silver Jubilee. They had a different photographer from each member of the commonwealth and so I got the gig! It was wonderful, what can I say, I was really lucky to have had that experience.

Q: Plymouth has a great music scene, what advice would you give to up-and-coming musicians?

Get out and gig, get out and play, that’s the best thing you can do.

Catch Bryan Adams, on Friday 14th June 2024, headlining at Plymouth Summer Sessions, The Hoe. Tickets for the 4-day festival can be found on www.smmrsessions.com with other headlining acts such as Tom Jones, Madness and Sting.

It’s been 12 months since we last spoke with Sarah and Sean Gundry from Ultracardiac and talked about their exciting new business venture; Tor View Clinical Rooms. We couldn’t wait to catch up and hear about all significant developments, cementing its position as a key player in healthcare provision in Devon and Cornwall.

Sean and Sarah Gundry, form a formidable business team blending Sean’s medical expertise gained from his service as a medic in the armed forces and later as an echocardiographer, with Sarah’s financial acumen honed as a Commercial Bank Manager. Their journey began with Sean witnessing the inefficiencies in NHS Trusts’ management of echocardiogram referrals during his extensive career in cardiology departments nationwide. Over dinner one evening, the couple brainstormed solutions, birthing a business idea.

in 2017, after years of diligent groundwork, ultracardiac emerged. Surpassing their own expectations, they secured contracts and earned the trust of local hospitals across Devon and cornwall, along with the integrated care Boards managing gp networks. By 2024 their team had grown to over twenty staff across ten regional sites.

in 2023, the couple embarked on

another venture, toR VieW clinical RoomS. Riding on ultracardiac’s success, they relocated to larger premises in estover, recognising the region’s need for premium clinical space. the newly refurbished facility offers flexible rental contracts to healthcare professionals, supported by an onsite admin team and a fulltime receptionist.

With the help of kate norcott Design, the cQc-approved premises boast a distinct identity separate from ultracardiac, allowing partnering businesses to thrive. the clinical rooms serve as a customisable space for tenants, while a communal kitchen and lounge area foster a sense of belonging among staff.

the clinic’s ambience aimed to alleviate patient anxiety, transitioning from a cosy waiting room to a clinical corridor to professional examination rooms. Warm welcomes and expert care define the experience at Tor View clinical Rooms.

over the past year, tor View clinical Rooms has experienced significant growth and transformation. the rental services have thrived, attracting multiple nhS clinics, private companies, and specialised practitioners such as menopause clinics, occupational health providers, therapists, and aesthetic practitioners. this diverse clientele has created a bustling and vibrant atmosphere within the premises, reflecting the dynamic tapestry of healthcare services being offered.

In alignment with their mission to enhance accessibility to healthcare, Tor View Clinical Rooms have collaborated closely with Trusts, Primary Care entities, and Independent Sector Providers. Together, it has pioneered initiatives to deliver cardiac diagnostics through the establishment of Community Diagnostic Centres across Devon and Cornwall. This strategic move brings healthcare closer to the communities they serve, facilitating convenience and accessibility for patients.

Sarah & Sean Gundry

Responding to the evolving healthcare landscape, Sarah and Sean have expanded their service offerings to include essential diagnostic tools such as ECG, Holter Monitors, and blood pressure monitoring. This expansion underscores their commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare solutions tailored to the needs of their patients, via both NHS and private selfreferred routes.

A significant milestone achieved this year is their registration with major medical insurance companies. This pivotal step enables self-referred private patients to utilise their medical insurance for scans, enhancing the affordability and accessibility of Ultracardiac’s services, and empowering individuals to prioritise their health without financial constraints.

While the clinic’s core clientele predominantly comprises of NHS patients, the Gundry’s commitment to affordability ensures that individuals from all walks of life can access quality healthcare services. The increasing number of self-paying referrals underscores their role as a trusted healthcare partner for those seeking proactive health management.

Looking ahead, Tor View Clinical Rooms is poised for further expansion and innovation. The vision encompasses service enrichment, geographical expansion, and facility

development. Sarah and Sean are dedicated to providing a broader range of diagnostic solutions to meet the evolving needs of both NHS and private patients. Exciting opportunities await as the couple embarks on expansion, tapping into new markets and communities to extend the reach of Ultracardiac’s and Tor View Clinical Rooms services. Additionally, they are committed to developing state-of-the-art facilities in Cornwall and Exeter to address the pressing need for adequate clinical space. These facilities will uphold the same high standards of accommodation enjoyed in Plymouth, fostering an environment conducive to collaboration and innovation in healthcare delivery.

In conclusion, Ultracardiac and Tor View Clinical Rooms stand at the forefront of healthcare transformation, driven by a steadfast commitment to accessibility, excellence, and community-centric care. As Sarah and Sean journey forward, they remain dedicated to shaping a future where quality healthcare is not just a privilege but a fundamental right for all.

“APPOINTMENTS WITHIN DAYS, RESULTS WITHIN HOURS.”

£50 – electrocardiogram (ECG)

£195 – echocardiogram with sonographer’s report. (Echo)

£245 – echocardiogram, sonographer’s report plus comments from a consultant cardiologist.

£395 – symptomatic patients “one stop shop” – echocardiogram, electrocardiogram, telephone consultation with consultant cardiologist and follow up letter.

Results will be with you in 24 hours.

If you are interested in renting one of their clinic rooms, please contact Sarah on Sarah@ultracardiac.co.uk

Tor View Clinical Rooms reception

The team at Tor View Clinical Rooms

What’s on

Plymouth street food festival

Central Park, Plymouth 3rd - 6th may

Bank holiday weekend enjoy four days of great food, entertainment and family fun with over 30 top street food traders coming together to serve up a diverse range of delicious dishes.

magiCal uniCorn month at PennyWell farm

Pennywell farm, Buckfastleigh 4th may - 2nd June

looking for an enchanting and magical experience? enjoy a host of special unicorn-themed experiences to help unleash your inner unicorn. meet merlin, our resident unicorn for the week, take part in unicorn hobby horse racing, and discover fascinating unicorn facts and figures on our Unicorn Farm Trail.

flavour fest

armada Way, Plymouth 31st may - 2nd June

plymouth’s food and drink extravaganza, Flavour Fest is set to celebrate 20 fabulous years along with an exciting new entertainment zone where visitors can kick back and relax, soak up the atmosphere of live music and ibizan beats, sample amazing street food and sip on cocktails.

may 2024

South Devon

mayhem at dartmoor zoo

dartmoor zoo, sparkwell 7th - 24th may

Dartmoor zoo have gone WilD and sliced all our prices! get 25% off all tickets by using code: dzsmayhem

Pirates Weekend

the Barbican, Plymouth 18th - 19th may

enjoy a swashbuckling weekend of fun and entertainment, inspired by the high seas, and explore a treasure trove of free activities across the Barbican, Sutton harbour, Royal William yard and Waterfront for all of the family to fall in love with.

green man Weekend

mount edgcumbe Country Park 25th - 26th may

a fantastic mix of entertainment provided by local bands, circus acts, morris dancers, re-enactment groups and much more to keep you entertained. Family activities, wood turning crafts in the Barrow centre, bouncy castles, a beer tent, and the obligatory hog roast. lots of fun for visitors of all ages!

romesh ranganathan

Plymouth Pavilions, Plymouth Wednesday 8th may

Back with a brand-new show examining the human condition... are people inherently good? is hustling the key to success? or is all this a load of rubbish we’ve made up to keep people working hard for no reason.

relive at argyle

home Park stadium, Plymouth sunday 26th may

a brand new one-day, family-friendly music festival, featuring a lineup of much loved headline acts with both live performances and DJ Sets from the 90s/00s and beyond. Bouncy castles, fairground attractions, a food village and more to make this full family stadium show truly one of a kind…

the Big Boozy BrunCh

the hook & line, royal William yard saturday 18th may

Join the primrose Foundation for their brilliant big boozy brunch to raise money for charity. tickets cost £20 per person and include a set brunch choice with topping options and your choice of a cranberry mimosa or cuban run hot chocolate.

piRateS WeekenD

Your Wellness, Naturally

Experience award-winning Gaia Spa nestled within the serene landscape of Boringdon Hall’s 16th-century estate in Devon. Gaia Spa offers a secluded sanctuary, providing nourishment and nurturing to leave you feeling your best self. Book

Step Back in time at

Continue ArCADes:

GPlymouth’s RetRo GaminG lounGe

et ready to immerse yourself in a nostalgia-fueled journey through the golden ages of gaming as Continue Arcades opens its doors in the heart of Plymouth’s vibrant city centre. Nestled among other entertainment hotspots, bars, and restaurants, Continue Arcades promises to be a haven for gamers of all ages, offering a trip down memory lane with a modern twist.

Scheduled to open its doors on May 24th, Continue Arcades invites you to experience the magic of retro gaming without the hassle of tokens or coins. That’s right, every game and machine from the 80s, 90s, and today is set to free-play, ensuring that your gaming adventure is as seamless as it is thrilling.

With classics like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and Street Fighter alongside modern favorites, there’s something for every gaming enthusiast to enjoy.

“At Continue Arcades, we’re passionate about preserving the rich history of gaming while also

embracing the latest trends and technologies,” says Austin Wood, owner of Continue Arcades. “Our goal is to create an immersive experience where guests can relive their favorite gaming moments and discover new ones, all in a welcoming and inclusive environment.”

For just £12, guests can enjoy unlimited access to all the arcade has to offer, with the freedom to stay and play for as long as they like. And to keep energy levels high, Continue Arcades will provide a selection of snacks, drinks, and even a small range of alcoholic beverages, ensuring that the fun never stops.

But Continue Arcades isn’t just about gaming—it’s about community. With its prime location in Plymouth’s bustling city centre, the arcade aims to become a hub for gamers to connect, compete, and create lasting memories together. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer looking to test your skills or a casual player seeking some nostalgic fun, Continue Arcades welcomes you with open arms.

Continue Arcades works on the basis of its values, Fun is contagious, nostalgia is visible and competition is a feeling. These value will be felt throughout the guests experience. And to top it off the experience will change frequently, we games rotating in and out to keep the fans coming back.

So mark your calendars and prepare to embark on a gaming adventure like no other. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or discovering new favorites, Continue Arcades promises an unforgettable experience for gamers of all generations.

For more information and updates, visit www.continuearcades.com and follow them on social media.

Don't miss out on Plymouth's newest gaming hotspot & get ready to press start and continue the adventure!

Writing a will might not be on the top of your to-do list, but trust me, it’s one of those things you’ll be thankful for getting sorted out sooner rather than later. I know, it sounds morbid, who wants to think about their demise? But we’re all human and getting a will together is a responsible move that saves a lot of headaches down the road.

First off, what even is a will? it’s basically a legal document where you lay out what you want to happen to your things after you kick the bucket. Sounds simple, right? Well, it can get a bit complex depending on your situation, but it’s nothing you can’t handle with a bit of guidance.

now, why should you bother? imagine you’re gone, chilling in the great

beyond, and your loved ones are left scratching their heads, trying to figure out who gets what. Without a will, your assets could end up in a messy tug-ofwar, and let’s be real, that’s the last thing you want for your family and friends.

So, how do you go about writing one? First, take stock of what you own. your house, car, bank accounts, that vintage collection of comic books— yeah, it all counts. then, think about who you want to inherit what. maybe you want your little brother to have your prized vinyl collection, or perhaps you’d rather donate your savings to your favourite charity. it’s your call, so make it count.

next up, choose an executor. this is the person who will make sure your wishes

are carried out when the time comes. pick someone you trust, someone organised who won’t lose your will in a pile of paperwork.

now, for the legal nitty-gritty. you could scribble your wishes on a napkin, but that’s not going to hold up in court. It’s best to get an official document drawn up by a lawyer. yes, it might cost a bit, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind.

and once it’s done, you can go back to living your best life, knowing you’ve got your affairs in order. So, what are you waiting for? get cracking on that will, and let future you thank present you for being so organised.

BARS & COCKTAIL

la Bistrot pierre

DEVON

Spring Walks

Spring is the perfect season for hiking or walking, with more sunny days, a gentle breeze and lots of beautiful wildflowers. It’s time to put your walking boots on and explore more of what Devon has to offer. (All route statistics are rough estimates.)

BigBury-on-Sea

4 miles 2 hours

This walk has a great mix of coast, woodland and countryside, perfect for spotting wildflowers and wildlife.

Park in the Bigbury-on-Sea car park, head down to the beach if you can’t resist the golden sand and then head back up to the car park to begin your walk. Follow the public footpath signs at the top left of the car park and head North Easterly following the South West Coast Path. You will walk past Challaborough and Toby’s Point before making the steep descent down to Ayrmer Cove. Walk over the river and take the public footpath on your right which heads inland to the village of Ringmore, passing sheep in the valley.

Once you walk past Manor Farm, follow the public footpath around to your right where you will meet the quaint Journey’s End Inn where they serve a delicious Sunday roast. From the pub, continue your walk towards the church in the centre of the village and then head right at the crossroads, continue down this road to join back onto the public footpath. Walk over two steep valleys and then at the top of the second valley, you will be met with a fence. With the fence on your left, head right and follow the fence into the next field and then straight down through Bigbury-on-Sea to the car park.

DogmarSh BriDge via CaSTle Drogo

5 miles 2.5 hours

This walk follows the stunning river Teign and Teign gorge up to Fingle Bridge and Castle Drogo.

Begin at Dogmarsh Bridge, you can either park on the grass verge or if you plan to have a pub lunch afterwards, you can park in a nearby pub car park. (We recommend asking the pub beforehand if this is okay to do so) Head east through the gate and onto the path which follows the tranquil river Teign and the Teign Gorge. Keep the river to your right and follow it around until you reach Fingle Bridge.

Fingle Bridge is a beautiful 17thcentury stone arch bridge. Opposite the bridge is Fingle Bridge Inn, a lovely pub if you needed a spot to rest.

After Fingle Bridge, stay on the road heading North for a few meters and then take the next left footpath. Follow this path passing Hunting Gate, Sharp Tor, Castle Drogo and Hunter’s Tor. Head North and follow the footpath until you reach a T junction of paths. Take the left footpath which will take you back down to the River Teign. From there you will recognise the path you originally came from which will take you back to your car.

STarT PoinT To TorCroSS

7.5 miles 3.5 hours

on a beautiful spring day, this coastal walk along Start Bay will give you epic views of the 15-mile stretch of coastline. This walk involves walking back the same way you came. Depending on your walking abilities, there are three great options.

Begin at the Start Point car park and head right, and take the 1.3-mile walk along the dramatic headline to reach the Start Point Lighthouse. This stretch of coastline is one of the best coastal walks along the South West Coast Path.

If you fancy a longer walk, head back the way you came and carry along the coast path passed Hallsands before reaching Beesands. A quaint seaside village with cottages and a pub lining the coast and a beautiful beach.

If you feel like exploring more of this coastline, carry on the coast path until reaching Torcross. Be sure to check out Stokeley Farm Shop for a browse and a bite to eat at their café. To get back to your car, simply head back the way you came, taking in all of the breathtaking views along the way.

Image of Start Point taken by Visit South Devon

RECIPE Doughnut

May 11th - 18th is none other than doughnut week. Why not give this receipe a try and if you’re feeling brave, experiment with different flavours.

Ring Doughnuts

Makes 6 ring doughnuts plus 6 mini bites

IngredIents

• 250g strong white bread flour, plus extra for dusting

• 30g caster sugar

• 7g sachet fast-action dried yeast

• 100ml lukewarm milk

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract

• 50g butter, softened

• vegetable oil, for deep-frying

For sugar-coated doughnuts

• 100g caster sugar

• 1 tsp cinnamon

For glazed doughnuts

• 200g icing sugar

2 3

• Sprinkles, freeze-dried raspberries or chocolate curls, to decorate (optional

1

Tip the flour, sugar, yeast and 1 tsp salt into a bowl and mix to combine. Pour in the milk, egg and vanilla, and bring everything together with your hands into a rough dough, making sure all the flour is mixed in. Or, do this using a stand mixer. Cover with a clean, damp cloth and set aside for 30 mins.

4

Tip the dough onto a clean surface and knead for 10-15 mins by hand or 5-8 mins in a stand mixer on low speed until springy and glossy. Use your hands to work the softened butter into the dough – this will take about 5 mins. At first, it will look like it’s not coming together, but keep working the dough through your fingers and it will become smooth and glossy. Form the dough into a ball and return it to the bowl. Cover and leave in a warm place to prove for 2-3 hrs, or until nearly doubled in size. Line a baking tray with baking parchment.

Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to a 2cm thickness, then use a 9cm cutter to stamp out as many circles as you can. Use a 4cm cutter to stamp out the middles. Re-roll the trimmings (including the middles) and stamp out more (you should end up with six ring doughnuts). Re-roll any remaining trimmings and use the 4cm cutter to stamp out five or six mini bites. Put the doughnuts and bites on the prepared tray, cover with a clean tea towel and leave to prove in a warm place for another 2-3 hrs, or in the fridge overnight until doubled in size. The lightness of the doughnuts depends on this second proving, and a longer prove in the fridge will give the doughnuts more flavour.

Fill a deep-fat fryer following manufacturer’s instructions, or a heavy-based pan, ensuring it is no more than a third full. Heat to 170C or until a cube of bread dropped in browns in 30 seconds. Carefully lift two or three doughnuts from the tray and slide them into the hot oil using a floured spatula. Fry for 2 mins each side until puffed up and golden brown, then remove to a sheet of kitchen paper using a slotted spoon or tongs. Leave to cool. Repeat with the remaining doughnuts, then fry all the mini bites for a total of 2 mins.

When the doughnuts and bites have cooled, you can either coat them in sugar or a glaze. For sugar doughnuts, combine the sugar and cinnamon, then toss with the doughnuts. For glazed doughnuts, sift the icing sugar into a bowl and mix in 2 tbsp cold water until you have a runny icing. Dip in the doughnuts, then decorate with the toppings of your choice. Best eaten straightaway, but will keep in an airtight container for a day.

Cocktail

RECIPES

May 13th we celebrate World Cocktail Day. We’ve tried and tested some springtime cocktails you should try

Gimlet Cocktail

Makes 2 - Difficulty - Easy

IngrEdIEnts

• 50ml homemade lime syrup or lime coridal

• ice

• 50ml London dry gin

• slice of lime and an edible flower, to garnish

• 2 limes, grated zest and juice

• 200g caster sugar

1

Put a martini or coupe glass in the fridge to chill. Pour 50ml of the lime syrup (see recipe, below) or cordial into a jug or tall glass and add a few ice cubes and the gin. Stir until the outside of the container feels very cold.

2

Strain the mixture into your chilled glass and garnish with a slice of lime and an edible flower.

3

Gentain White Lady

Makes - 1 Difficulty - Easy

IngrEdIEnts

• 25ml lime juice

• 50ml Portobello Gin

• 20ml sugar syrup

• 20ml egg white

• 10ml violet liqueur

Put all ingredients into a cocktail shaker and shake well to froth up egg white. Strain and serve.

For the homemade lime syrup, put the lime zest into a saucepan. Squeeze the juice from both limes into a measuring jug – stop when you get to about 60ml, then top it up with water so you have 100ml of liquid in total. Pour this into your pan with the caster sugar. Heat very gently, stirring occasionally just until the sugar has dissolved, but don’t let it boil. Strain the mixture into a heatproof jug and leave to cool. Makes 280-300ml. Lasts up to two weeks.

Rhubarb and Ginger

Negroni

IngrEdIEnts

Makes - 1 Difficulty - Easy

• 40ml Botanist gin

• 20ml Martini Rosso

• 20ml Campari

• 1 tsp Rhubarb and ginger jam to serve orange zest or candied ginger

1

Stir all ingredients over ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with orange peel and ginger candy on a cocktail stick.

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