Oracle Magazine August Issue 2014

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Plymouth Flavour Fest The biggest food & drink festival in the South West is back

Firework Championships The UK’s best pyrotechnics companies prepare for an explosive showdown

Interview with Laura Wright Exclusive interview with one of the biggest selling classical artists of our decade

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Wedding Planning

Step by step guide designed to help you plan your perfect day 22 August 2014

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Health & Beauty Eating & Drinking Leisure & Events Home

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Creative Director Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net Editor Lucy McGowan BA (Hons) lucy@oracle.uk.net Account Management Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net Emma-Jane Corry emma@oracle.uk.net Sales Appointments Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net Ashley Meads ashley@oracle.uk.net Graphic Design Lucy McGowan BA (Hons) lucy@oracle.uk.net Tom Coles BA (Hons) tom@oracle.uk.net Website Design Mike Pitches Photography www.mikepitchesphotography.co.uk Editorial Lucy McGowan BA (Hons) Photography Tom Coles Adam Pedley Paul J Andrews Alex Beverley www.shutterstock.com www.istock.com

editor's note..

There will be visitors coming from all over the world to watch the skies light up above Plymouth’s spectacular waterfront this month.

An amazing display of over four tonnes of fireworks will light up the sky, as six of the country’s top pyrotechnics companies battle it out to be named the British Fireworks Champion 2014. Whether you are an avid goer of the firework championships or have never been before, it is set to be an exciting evening for all the family (page 32).

The biggest food and drink festival in the South West is back! Flavourfest will be taking place in the city centre, where over 120 food and drink traders will line the streets with a tempting range of delicious local produce.

People can expect everything from fantastic fruit and veg to outstanding organic meat and everything in between including home baked cakes, artisan bread and pastries, preserves,

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chutneys, cheeses, beers and wines and so much more (page 23)!

Getting Married? We have a fantastic wedding feature in this issue, designed to help you begin to plan your perfect day. From a step by step guide to real brides stories offering inspiration and some of the best wedding industry specialists in the South West. Turn to page 12 to find out more.

I hope you enjoy all the great features in this issue of the Plymouth Oracle. I’ll catch up with you next month!

Lucy Lucy McGowan Editor/Head Graphic Designer

Individual, distinctive fitted kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms - innovatively designed and beautifully crafted

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All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publisher. We have done our utmost to ensure that all the content is correct and accurate at the time of print, but we emphasise that Oracle Publications accepts no responsibility for any mistakes or omissions in this publication. All opinions expressed in the Plymouth Oracle magazine are that of the individual contributor and are not always shared by the publication.

Image sourced from: istock.com The Plymouth Oracle Magazine is published, designed, & distributed by: Oracle Publications Ltd, Suite 8, Bowker House, Lee Mill, Near Ivybridge, Devon, PL21 9EF. Any comments should be addressed to the Creative Director.

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contents August 2014

Local Radio Station 10 Your Out and About in our city with Radio Plymouth’s

32

Jemma

West Weddings 12 South Everything you need to begin planning your special day, including inspiration from real brides

23

Love Food, Love Flavour Fest

26

Exclusive Interview with Laura Wright

32

British Firework Championships begins

The biggest food and drink festival in the South West is back for its eleventh year We caught up with glamorous soprano singer Laura Wright

Six of the UK’s best pyrotechnics companies prepare for an explosive showdown

23 12

34

What’s On Guide

38

Film Guide

Events happening across the city this Month Some of the best films being released during the month of August

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August 2014 07

EMPLOYMENT

New talent is on its way!

With Plymouth University Summer is almost over, and with September approaching Plymouth University are eager to welcome our new arrivals for 2014!

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he Student Jobs team have already begun preparations for the many events that will occur this September, beginning with Arrivals Weekend. In 2013 we recruited approximately 400 Student Ambassadors for these September events. During Arrivals Weekend we had Student Ambassadors stationed at each of the Halls of Residence to welcome our new students, and to assist the families with moving in their belongings. We were very proud to provide the students responsible for ensuring that our new arrivals settled into their new home as smoothly as possible. And we are looking forward to having this privilege again for September 2014.

Welcome Week then follows this, where many events and activities are organised for the new arrivals, such as the Welcome parties for the different faculties. Within this Week again our Student Jobs team are responsible in the recruitment of the Student Ambassadors that help with the preparation of these events, help encourage new students to participate and to help supervise these activities. Additionally, the Graduation ceremonies will take place in September, in which our team will be responsible for recruiting students to work as the

“We were very proud to provide the students responsible for ensuring that our new arrivals settled into their new home as smoothly as possible” 08 August 2014

“We encourage external employers in Plymouth to contact our Student Jobs team, as when the students return in September many will be eager to secure a parttime job!” hospitality staff. Therefore, our new arrivals and returning students will have a variety of work opportunities that they can get involved with!

In addition to these opportunities, our students are keen to get in contact with local employers. We encourage external employers in Plymouth to contact our Student Jobs team, as when the students return in September many will be eager to secure a part-time job!

With one of the largest talent pools in the South West we can help provide you with gifted, enthusiastic and hard - working candidates for your vacancies. We aim to be that crucial link between our students and local employers. As from day one at Plymouth University we have a strong

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focus on employability, and will offer excellent support to students eager to build their CV’s and improve upon their future employability.

Student Jobs will gladly manage the entire recruitment process for you. Over the years Student Jobs has developed strong long term relationships with clients, and will always ensure that your business is fully understood before entering the recruitment process. Once we have all the necessary information we will advertise your part- time vacancy using our dedicated vacancy website. Additionally, we will circulate all opportunities through our Twitter feed ‘@PlymUniJobs’.

Furthermore, our team will happily manage the applications and create a shortlist of the most suited candidates.

We have no fee, therefore we can offer you a prompt and efficient service that will lower recruitment costs and provide you with the perfect candidates!

As an employer or a student, if you are in need of our services or simply would like more information on our Student Jobs team – please contact studentjobs@plymouth.ac.uk or phone 01752 587722.

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August 2014 09

Out and About in our city with Radio Plymouth’s Jemma

Plymouth’s only commercial radio station based on Plymouth Hoe

Photo: Mike Pitches Photography

Pictured: Jemma Jones hosting the local MTV Crashes stage

M

TV crashed into Plymouth last month and it felt like the entire city was out in force. Not only did I get the chance to interview Example and Ricky from the Kaiser Chiefs, I was blown away when they asked me to host the local MTV Crashes stage the following night. We were entertained by some great local artists and my role was to entertain the crowd, not my average Wednesday evening by far, so I gave it my best shot.

The crowd were great and I felt very proud to be representing Radio Plymouth.

Have you been at an event, had your picture taken or face painted by one of our Radio Plymouth Lighthouse Crew, or has your business enjoyed a Teabreak or Bun Run from us? Well if you have there is a good chance I may have met you.

As the Events and Promotions Coordinator at Radio Plymouth, organising our activity within the local community is my responsibility. Our Lighthouse Crew are the face of Radio Plymouth and we are out and about on a daily basis, delivering treats to your workplace, such as Platters’

10 August 2014

Fish and Chips or Little Dom’s Cupcakes.

We have been bringing back the Great British Tea Break by delivering Plymouth Tea to a different business each week.

“At Radio Plymouth we provide that personal touch and create a positive, friendly atmosphere with a great crew.”

Working closely with Plymouth City Council, you’ve probably seen our Lighthouse Crew at events such as Pirate Weekend and Armed Forces Day. One of the next big events you will find us at is Flavour Fest. Pop along to our gazebo at Flavour Fest, bring the children to have their face painted and we will be giving away Little Dom’s Cupcakes across the weekend. Very recently, we joined up with Foster for Plymouth to help raise awareness of the need for more foster carers in the city.

Organising events at Radio Plymouth

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also has a glitzy side to it. We were media partners for the Volksfest, interviewing acts such as Bob Geldof and the Boomtown Rats, Razorlight and Toyah Wilcox.

At Radio Plymouth we provide that personal touch and create a positive, friendly atmosphere with a great crew.

The Lighthouse crew have a wide range of experience, we support community events free of charge whenever possible and are proud to be part of the only commercial radio station based in the heart of Plymouth.

Keep us up to date with what is going on in our city. If you have a charity or notfor-profit event visit www.radioplymouth. com, click on our “What’s On” page and enter all the details and I will see I can pop along.

Remember to tune in and support your local radio station, Radio Plymouth!

Article by Events and Promotions Co-ordinator Jemma Jones

www.radioplymouth.com

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August 2014 11

SOUTH WEST WEDDINGS

Planning Your Perfect Wedding So you’re engaged? Congratulations! It can seem a bit overwhelming thinking of all the details you need to consider for the biggest day of your life. Not sure where to start? Our step by step guide is designed to help you begin to plan your perfect day. By Lucy McGowan

Getting Started Once you have told your family and friends the good news and you have decided to start planning, sit down with your fiancé and talk money. These days, it’s very rare for the bride’s parents to pick up the whole bill, so find out how much both sets of parents may be willing to contribute and how much you can realistically afford to spend, and stick to it.

Set a Date Once you have a budget in mind, it’s time to set a date. It’s best to have an idea of which month or season you would like to marry, but more often than not, the availability at your chosen venue will be the deciding factor. Before you research wedding venues and arrange viewings, create a guest list, as this will determine where you can hold your ceremony and reception and how much it is likely to cost.

When these arrangements have been made, your whole day will start to fall into place!

Choosing the Dress

Buying a wedding dress is undoubtedly one of the most exciting experiences of the wedding planning process! There are some great bridal shops in Plymouth including Encore Adore, Perfection Bridal, Prudence Gowns and Sam Cox Bridal Wear. They have some stunning and elegant dresses that will make you look beautiful on your special day. No matter what your budget is, or the size or shape you are, there will be a style out there for you, so don’t get disheartened if you

12 August 2014

“Buying a wedding dress is undoubtedly one of the most exciting experiences of the wedding planning process!” don’t instantly find your perfect dress!

Remember to call in advance and make appointments so they know when to expect you and can dedicate their time to help you.

Book a Photographer Your wedding day will be the best day of your life, but it’s gone in a flash!

The excitement of your day can be overwhelming and it is all over so quickly.

There will be so many wonderful moments that you will want to remember forever, so finding a good photographer is important.

Do you prefer formal or candid natural shots? Each photographer has their own style, so take a look at their portfolios and decide which one suits you best.

Flowers & Decor When your venue details are all in place, you can arrange consultations with florists. Do your research beforehand so you have an idea of your colour scheme and the kind of flowers you would prefer, and check if they will be in season. Your wedding venue will be a blank canvas

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for you to decorate with your chosen arrangements, so think about church flowers, centrepieces and displays for your reception, and of course hand held bouquets and buttonholes. One of the best florists to visit would be Honors Flowers. With their expertise, they can provide stunning flowers for all aspects of your special day.

It’s easy to become caught up in the planning that you forget the most important thing - you! Remember this day is all about you and your fiancé, so no matter how big or small your budget it will be the most treasured, memorable day of your life. Happy planning!

My Wedding Checklist Ceremony & Reception Venue Wedding Dress Bridesmaids Dresses Groomsmen Suits Photographer Entertainment Flowers Transport Wedding Cake Rings Invitations Hair & Beauty Decorations & Favours

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SOUTH WEST WEDDINGS

Your flowers, their passion Organising your Wedding flowers can seem daunting but with expertise, experience and imagination the planning stages can be exciting and fun, and at Honors Flowers in Peverell, it really becomes an enjoyable experience.

C

onsultations by appointment in the luxurious Bridal Suite are arranged to suit you in relaxed surroundings, where you can view their Portfolio collection and discuss your individual floral requirements.

We asked bride to be Hannah Canning-Gray about her recent Honors experience: “I was greeted and showed upstairs, it was lovely, very vintage and “shabby chic”. It felt special as it was a place just for me, and was themed beautifully to create the perfect atmosphere.

I was allowed time to look through their portfolios, before we started the discussions.”

“It was great, because it wasn’t a pick off the shelf situation, it was totally unique” “It was great, because it wasn’t a pick off the shelf situation, it was totally unique and bespoke for my individual requirements. I’m an indecisive person, but Tania asked fantastic questions and

Paul J Andrews Photography

Tom Coles Photography

used her experience to help me really narrow down my choices. She made really good contributions where needed, and her suggestions and advice were really good. She listened very well, and I didn’t feel rushed at all. She really took her time and took into account our budget and the setting. It was a great balance between drawing upon her experience and catering for what I wanted. She even made great suggestions on ways we can save money, for example not using expensive flowers in our birdcage centrepieces. I feel confident and relaxed about the flowers for the wedding now, as

“Overall, it was a really welcoming, warm experience and really took the stress out of choosing our flowers” Tania sent me a complete breakdown of everything and assured me that changes can be made up to a month before.

Overall, it was a really welcoming, warm experience and really took the stress out of choosing our flowers. I went in with a rough idea, and came out knowing everything I needed to know.”

Honors can provide the whole range of wedding flowers, including beautiful

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“They also have an extensive for hire collection of items such as vintage bird cages, lily vases, mirror plates and candelabras” hand wrapped bridal bouquets, button holes, thank you flowers, flowers for the Church, Reception and wedding cars. They also have an extensive for hire collection of items such as vintage bird cages, lily vases, mirror plates and candelabras which the will even deliver and pick up again, which is one less worry for you!

Honors skills and expertise have brought them fame and accolade on several occasions, including being featured on BBC Three’s ‘Don’t tell the bride’ and even providing flowers for Her Majesty the Queen! High praise indeed for a local, family run business.

If you are planning your dream day, call Tania and the team at Honors on 01752 243524 to book your consultation and experience Honors for yourself.

Honors Flowers, 6 Peverell Park Road, Plymouth, PL3 4NA. Email: sales@honorsflowers.co.uk

August 2014 13

SOUTH WEST WEDDINGS

A Bridal Boutique Experience - without the price tag When women think about getting married, the first thing that springs to mind is often The Dress! However many women’s dream dress is often at a price they cannot really afford nor justify paying for.

T

here will always be women happy to pay the top end prices for the latest designers, but there are also many that either can’t or won’t pay that much (or both!), and that’s how the idea for Encore Adore came about. Encore Adore specialises in ex-sample, new with tags and preloved wedding dresses, saving you money without compromising on quality.

Based on Alexandra Road, near the Mutley junction (behind Boomerangs), Encore Adore offers a one to one service, so no one but you and your friends and family will be present during your fitting, making you feel more at ease.

Photo: Alexander Photography

A stunning wedding dress is something that should be within every bride’s reach, yet there seems to have been an increase in the number of websites and even some shops selling cheap copies, advertising their dresses using a photo stolen from a top designer. These are usually poor quality copies using cheap materials, not made by the original designer, and this is reflected in the very low price.

We should all be able to have the bridal boutique experience, without worrying about being able to afford the desired dress. At Encore Adore, we want to provide every bride with that experience and the gorgeous dress they have always dreamed of. We want happy brides!

Find your perfect dress today call 07738 174 929 Encore Adore, 1 Alexandra Road, Mutley, Plymouth, PL4 7ED www.encoreadore.com

Photo: Alexander Photography

Photo: Chelseaa Benwell

Photo credits: Hair/Makeup - Kim Burroughs, Eyelashes - Sarah Humphreyson, Models - Deeanne Coombes & Francesca Floris, Photography - Mandy Alexander & Chelseaa Benwell

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S A M E D AY D E L I V E R Y AVA I L A B L E Inspirational Floral Designs • Creative Bouquets • Stunning Bridal Flowers Funeral Wreaths • Corporate Displays

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SOUTH WEST WEDDINGS

Real Brides

A traditional white wedding...

Rebecca & Ben

Rings - H Samuel

Ceremony - Holy Cross Church Reception - Kitley House Dress - Prudence Gowns Photography - Adam Pedley

The Proposal...I certainly didn’t have the typical proposal and all my closest friends were in on it! We had been invited to a summer BBQ and just as we were leaving, Ben started an argument. I ended up storming out and went to the BBQ on my own, but little did I know this was all part of the plan. Now I see why my friends were laughing at me when I arrived and told them why he hadn’t arrived with me. When I turned around Ben was in front of me, and thinking he was going to continue our argument in front of all our friends I shot him the dirtiest of looks! The next thing I knew he was down on one knee - he always has to be different!

The Dress...Everyone had always told me that when you try your dress on you will know...I didn’t. I tried a few on and none of them were ‘right’. Then I went to Prudence Gowns and I knew straight away I wanted one of their dresses! The staff were so helpful and after trying on nearly all of their dresses several times I eventually found ‘the one’. It was a Satin A-line gown with a sweetheart neckline

and a ruched bodice leading into a gorgeous balloon hem.

The Flowers...Unfortunately my flowers did not entirely go to plan, I originally wanted to have peonies which were out of season in the UK, so my florist had to have them shipped from Sweden.

They arrived the day before the wedding and had completely fallen apart. Even though she tried her best to work with what she had, the peonies were unusable so I had to have completely different bouquets. The flowers are the only thing that I would change if I was to plan the day again!

The Ceremony...There was never a choice of the church, I had it all planned out since I was a little girl! The church was Holy Cross, the local parish to where I grew up in Newton Ferrers and it has a lot of family ties to it. It was bursting with people and it was lovely to see so many of our friends and family come together to share our special day with us.

The Reception...I always dreamt of a

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“I always dreamt of a traditional white wedding in a beautiful big manor house” traditional white wedding in a beautiful big manor house and I was very lucky to have one on my door step. Kitley House was the perfect choice, it was close to the church and could cater for everything I could have dreamt of! The picturesque surrounding created the most amazing backdrop for the wedding photos and a day that we will never forget.

The Honeymoon...For our honeymoon we went on a Mediterranean Cruise and it was so amazing to literally be in the middle of nowhere and completely relax after all the hustle and bustle of the wedding. We could also finally start to celebrate our pregnancy, which was announced during the wedding speeches, so everybody finally knew our exciting news!

August 2014 15

SOUTH WEST WEDDINGS

Real Brides

A classic fairytale...

Lucy & Jake

Ceremony - St. Andrews Church Reception - Langdon Court Dress - Perfection Bridal Suits - Debenhams Flowers - Honors Flowers Photography - Paul J Andrews

The Proposal...Jake proposed on our four year anniversary in December. He took me to my favourite restaurant, the Barbican Kitchen and we had a lovely meal. Once we made our way home, we decorated the Christmas tree together and then he told me to sit down and close my eyes. When I opened them, he was down on one knee with a ring in his hands and he asked me to marry him. It was such a surprise I couldn’t speak and instantly burst into hysterical tears leaving him anxiously waiting for an answer! I eventually managed to say yes and it was an amazing moment that I will never forget.

The Dress...I loved every minute of shopping for my wedding dress, but it took me a while to find it! Everyone told me ‘you’ll know when it’s the one’, and although I tried on some beautiful dresses, I just wasn’t getting that feeling.

Over the course of a few weeks, I went to every dress shop in Plymouth and was starting to lose hope! I went back to Perfection Bridal to try on one of my favourites again but as I entered they

16 August 2014

were arranging a display with a dress that had just arrived. It was an ivory dress with a beautiful lace bodice over a soft tulle skirt and a stunning decorative sash that tied round the waist into a large bow at the back. The second I saw it and before even trying it on, I knew it was the one for me!

The Ceremony...Our ceremony was held at our family church, St Andrews.

Ever since I even started to think about my wedding day, I always knew it was where I would want to get married. It was built in the 15th Century and is the largest parish church in Devon. It’s a breathtakingly beautiful church with an aisle roughly 124 ft long, so it was amazing to walk down, with all our friends and family around me.

The Reception...We held our reception at the luxury boutique Hotel, Langdon Court in Down Thomas. It is a stunning historic listed grade 2 manor house dating back to 16th Century. Our wedding theme was vintage, classic and traditional, and this venue was perfect for us. The food

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“the whole day had a relaxed and intimate atmosphere” was exquisite and the whole day had a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, which is just what we wanted. We couldn’t have imagined our reception anywhere else!

The Honeymoon...We went to Mexico for our Honeymoon, which was the most amazing experience! We stayed in a large five star complex in Riviera Maya, right on the beach. Before we arrived, we checked the weather forecast which said there was going to be heavy rain and storms throughout the length of our stay so we were slightly worried! Surprisingly, the weather was absolutely perfect with clear blue skies and sunshine all day long, so we were very lucky. During our time there, we swam with Dolphins, Sharks and Manatees, which was a once in a lifetime experience we will both remember for the rest of our lives.

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SOUTH WEST WEDDINGS

Real Brides An intimate celebration...

Becky & Neal

Dress - Perfection Bridal

Suits - Debenhams

The Proposal...Neal and I were best friends for years before we got together.

Everything just came so naturally, including the proposal. We had only officially been together for 6 months before Neal proposed, but we knew it was what we both wanted, so we didn’t want to waste any time! I knew it was coming because we had looked at rings together, but wasn’t exactly sure when it would happen. We were at home one evening getting ready to go for drinks with friends and Neal kept trying to get my attention.

Eventually he said “will you just come here so I can ask you to marry me?”. He knew I wasn’t into romantic clichés and wouldn’t have wanted any extravagant gestures, so a low key and private proposal was perfect for me.

The Dress...I went to a few dress shops in Plymouth and I tried on about 10 dresses before I found the one! I had such a set idea in my mind of what I was looking for, but in the end I went for something completely different! You can never tell what is going to suit you until you try it - just looking at a dress on the hanger doesn’t do it justice! I bought my dress from Perfection Bridal Wear and

Photography - Alex Beverley the lady was really helpful and gave an honest opinion. The dress I chose was a simple, strapless dress with a rouched, structured fitted bodice. It instantly made me feel really special and was so comfortable!

The Ceremony...We had an intimate

ceremony at Plymouth Register Office, with all our closest friends and family.

We didn’t want a huge affair; all that was important to us was to be able to share it with the people we love the most. I thought I would be really emotional but I think the nerves got the better of me and I was really giggly! I walked in to ‘Pachelbel’s Cannon in D’ and we had a beautiful reading called ‘What is love’.

The second I saw Neal, it filled me with happiness knowing I was about to marry my best friend!

The Reception...Our reception was held at The Astor Hotel on the Hoe. Our colour scheme was silver and white and the room was filled with fairy lights and candles, it was beautiful. We had a lovely relaxed reception, and as it was a perfect sunny day and as the Hoe was just a stone’s throw away, our guests

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“We didn’t want a huge affair; all that was important to us was to be able to share it with the people we love the most.” were able to venture onto the seafront for ice-creams. The evening consisted of lots of dancing and laughter and when it was dark, all our guests headed to the promenade and let off Chinese Lanterns into the sky. It was a magical moment.

The Honeymoon...For our honeymoon, we stayed at a 5 star resort in Nissi Bay, Cyprus. It was a lavish resort with breathtaking views. During our stay, we went on a lovely Catamaran trip, swam in the ocean and visited a water park nearby. The rest of our days were spent relaxing and soaking up the sun on the beach and by the pool. We really enjoyed the food there, as they had such a huge range of dishes on offer. We couldn’t have asked for more!

August 2014 17

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18 August 2014

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The simple question worth £176,000

Mike LeGassick

Who would have thought the simple question “How are you?” would make a £176,000 difference to one Plymouth family? Yet that’s exactly what happened.

With his clients’ consent, independent financial adviser Mike LeGassick of Manning and Company tells us their stories.

Matt’s story During a meeting with some clients in January, I casually asked after their son Matt, who was also a client of mine. It was an innocent question; but when their response was that he was “bearing up” I was somewhat confused.

It turned out that Matt had discovered a lump just a month before. It resulted in the immediate removal of a testicle as it was an invasive seminoma.

Matt had not contacted me about this so I had no idea. But only five months earlier I had arranged a £176,000 critical illness insurance policy for him and his wife Mel. I immediately called Matt and explained that he might have a qualifying claim. He had thought there would be no chance of a claim, as it had been caught early, removed and dealt with, and he’d now been given the all-clear.

But the great thing about critical illness cover is that it pays out on diagnosis. I instigated the claim for them, and three months later they received a £176,000 payment from Aviva.

Needless to say Matt and Mel are

delighted. They have two young children and can now move on with their lives safe in the knowledge that Matt is healthy and they have the funds to completely redeem their mortgage should they wish.

Bruce’s story I was carrying out a routine annual review with a client, Bruce, and asked how he was. He told me he’d had a bit of a scare 8 months ago: a very mild stroke. It lasted just 24 hours and thankfully left no lasting effects – but nonetheless, it was a stroke.

Bruce told me he tried to make a claim on his critical illness policy, but Legal and General dismissed it and told him that unfortunately his specific condition did not warrant a claim under their policy conditions.

Bruce explained to me that the policy had been taken out 18 years ago (long before he was my client) to protect the mortgage he had at that time. With his authority, I spoke to the insurer and asked them to send me their official definition of a stroke based on the specific contract sold to Bruce at the time. I discussed this with Bruce; and his specialist confirmed that it was precisely what Bruce had suffered.

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I pursued the claim, and a few days before Christmas a cheque for £29,000 arrived. Best of all, Bruce remains in perfect health.

Imagine if I’d never asked…

Matt and Bruce took the sensible precaution of preparing for the unknown by taking out critical illness cover. But imagine if I had never asked the simple questions – how are you? - and how’s the family? The money Matt and Bruce were entitled to would never have been paid to them.

Sometimes people forget the details of policies they have taken out. And sometimes insurance companies get things wrong, as Bruce’s story shows.

This is where a financial adviser can really help, using expert knowledge to check facts and pursue claims on your behalf.

If you think you might be entitled to make a claim, or even if you’re not sure, call me for a chat on 08700 333001, or 01752 837950. As an independent financial adviser I’m not just here to arrange policies – I’m here to make sure you don’t miss out on the money you’re entitled to.

August 2014 19

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Blueberry Swirl Cheesecake Serves 14 Ingredients

• 300g digestive biscuits • 140g butter, melted • 275g golden caster sugar • 100g blueberries • 1 tsp cornflour

• 600g full-fat cream cheese • 4 tbsp plain flour • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 3 large eggs • 200ml pot soured cream

Method

1.

Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Line a 20 x 30cm rectangular tin with baking parchment. Put the biscuits in a food processor and blitz to a fine crumb. Add the butter and blitz again to combine. Tip into the tin, press down firmly with the back of a spoon to cover the base, then bake for 10 mins. Leave to cool.

2.

Tip 25g of the sugar and the blueberries into a small pan. Mix the cornflour with 1 tbsp cold water and add this to the pan. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat and bubble for 1-2 mins. Set aside to cool.

3.

In a large bowl, whisk the cream cheese with an electric hand-held whisk until smooth. Add the remaining sugar and whisk again. Add the flour, vanilla, eggs and soured cream, and whisk until smooth and well combined.

4.

Recipe from bbcgoodfood.com

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the biscuit base and smooth the surface with a spatula. Drizzle the blueberry sauce over the top, then use the end of the spoon to ripple it into the cheesecake. Bake for 10 mins, then lower the heat to 110C/90C fan/ gas ¼ and bake for a further 30 mins. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hr, then leave for 1 hr more with the door ajar. Finally, leave at room temperature until completely cool, then chill for at least 3 hrs. Slice into 14 bars.

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August 2014 21

EATING & DRINKING

Directory Pub Food

Chinese Restaurants 49 Mayflower St, Plym St. Andrews Cross, Plym Colebrook Inn Colebrook Rd, Plym 10-11 Southside St, Plym 13 Southside St, The Barbican, Plym 3 Buckland Terrace, Yelverton 115 Fore Street, Kingsbridge 203 Billacombe Rd, Plym 17 Derry’s Cross, Plym Top Floor, Southside St, Plym 30a Western Approach, Plym 11 St Andrew’s Cross, Plym 14 Athenaeum Street, Plym 75 Hoe Rd, Plym 80 Royal Parade, Plym 57-59 North Hill, Plym

Beijing Noodle Bar Buffet City China Wok Crystal Dragon Han Dynasty Jasmin Restaurant Jasmine Chinese Ming Dynasty New China Garden Noodle Lounge Ocean Palace Royal Garden The Hoe Cantonese The Wet Wok View Pan Asia Wah Tin

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French Restaurants 11 Whimple St, Plym Princess Street, Plym Royal William Yard, Plym

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Greek Restaurants Lanterns Meze Grill Mediterranean Paphos Shirley Valentine’s The Grecian Taverna The Leandra Zeus

Indian Restaurants Baba Indian Restaurant Cafe Indiya Gurkha Palace Lackys Balti House Mombay Brasserie Nibana Saltash Tandoori Sanjida Shapla Balti Cusine Spice Empire The Eastern Eye The Taste of India

17 Bretonside, Plym 18 Church St, Stoke, Plym 101 Mayflower St, Plym 4 Hooe Road, Plym Penrose House, 4 Lockyers Quay 9 Morshead Rd, Crownhill, Plym 23 - 25 Lower Fore St, Saltash 9 Broad Street, Modbury, Ivybridge 137 Ridgeway, Plym 153 Vauxhall St, The Barbican, Plym 57 Notte Street, Plym 2 Barne Roadm Plym

Italian Restaurants Bella Italia Frankie & Benny’s Morgans Pasta & Pizza Bar Pizza Express Positano Prezzo Trattoria Pescatore

22 August 2014

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Cafe Rouge Chloe’s Le Bistrot Pierre

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

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Traditional Restaurants

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EATING & DRINKING

LOVE FOOD, LOVE FLAVOUR FEST

F

lavour Fest, a food festival extravaganza sponsored by Boringdon Hall, takes place in Plymouth’s city centre where local and celebrity chefs share their tips of the trade.

Over 120 food and drink traders will be lining the streets from Friday 15th to Sunday 17th August, tempting visitors with a range of local produce including fresh fish, cheese, cider and even something sweet. This will be a lively and exciting way to experience the true taste of the South West.

People can expect everything from fantastic fruit and veg to outstanding organic meat and everything in between including home baked cakes, artisan

“People can expect everything from fantastic fruit and veg to outstanding organic meat and everything in between”

The biggest food and drink festival in the South West is back for its eleventh year with lots to tickle the taste buds! bread and pastries, preserves, chutneys, cheeses, beers and wines plus much more. At Flavour Fest you can always try before you buy, so come hungry and ready to sample!

Plymouth City Centre Company Manager, Stefan Krause, said: “Flavour Fest is now in its eleventh year and people come back time and time again and love to try the delicacies on offer.”

“It provides an opportunity for local retailers, independent market traders and restaurants to showcase what makes them so special in the world of food and drink. It brings a huge number of people into our City Centre and we will be encouraging people to take the time to visit the West End and Drake Circus shopping centre too.”

The main stage will be located underneath the Big Screen and will be managed by Lawson’s and Jacques Marchal. Kicking off on the Friday, top chefs and special guests will take part in

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August 2014 23

EATING & DRINKING with a full programme of demonstrations over the three day festival.

Already confirmed are local lads turned celebrity chefs Chris and James Tanner and celebrity chef Mitch Tonks along with Ben Squire from the Boat House Café, Andrew Ferns from Chloe’s Restaurant, Joe Draper and Andy Richardson from River Cottage and Kevin Robertson-Wells from Rhodes @ the Dome. For the first year Yo! Sushi will be joining the team by giving cookery demonstrations.

Chris and James Tanner own the popular Tanners restaurant, as well as the Barbican Kitchen, set in the medieval Prysten House. They both appear on the

a ‘Ready, Steady, Cook’ style show which has proved to be a highlight in previous years.

Throughout the weekend celebrity chefs stand shoulder to shoulder with the best of regional culinary talent on the stage of Flavour Fest’s Cookery Theatre,

“Throughout the weekend celebrity chefs stand shoulder to shoulder with the best of regional culinary talent on the stage of Flavour Fest’s Cookery Theatre”

small screen and have a range of solo and joint cookery books.

Mitch Tonks also has a restaurant in the city, Rockfish Seafood located on Sutton Harbour. He is a self-taught chef who has written 5 books, including Fish Easy published in 2012. He also has other award-winning restaurants located in Dartmouth and Bristol.

There will also be a ‘Food is Fun’ area for kids, sponsored by Langage Farm, where kids can see the wonders of how food is transformed into meals, in a fun and interactive way. Face painting and refreshments will jostle with colouring, bread making and other activities to encourage kids to take an interest in what they eat and understand what goes into their food.

For those parents and adults that like to experience a real festival feel, the real ale area, sponsored by Exeter Brewery which will also serve the Westcountry’s best made ciders, will have a seating area so you can take in the smells of the nearby stalls or enjoy the entertainment.

With lots to see, do and taste – this really is going to be a Flavour Fest!

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EATING & DRINKING

DJ’s, Cocktails & Platters – wagamama know how to do summer in Plymouth! wagamama Plymouth is introducing a newly renovated bar concept serving freshly mixed cocktails and tasting platters to guests along with their famed panasian menu. The bar will be home to a resident dj every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening throughout the summer.

T

his is the third wagamama in the UK to serve cocktails designed by mixologists to complement the pan-asian inspired menu. Exotic fruit brings a fresh burst to the raspberry mule and ginger lychee martini, and there is a Japanese twist on cocktail classics, such as the Yuzu Collins and Prosecco based Tokyo 46.

“we’re really excited to welcome people to wagamama to enjoy great food, great music and great cocktails together!”

“we’re looking forward to showcasing wagamama’s new summer concept at Plymouth and getting everyone in the summer mood,” said restaurant general manager Jenny Hilley. “we’re really excited to welcome people to wagamama to enjoy great food, great music and great cocktails together!”

wagamama is also introducing new tasting platters which are inspired

by Plymouth’s coastal location. They include a seafood offering, made up of grilled salmon and shitake mushroom skewers and chilli squid. Other options include a mixed platter featuring Korean bbq skewers, stir fried beef and ‘tori kara age’, tender chicken pieces served with a chilli, garlic and soy dipping sauce. A vegetarian option with grilled asparagus and wok fried greens will keep things fresh and completes the tasty new trio – all perfect for sharing!

Whether you are out for dinner with friends enjoying the new wagamama summer menu, or catching up over a cocktail, wagamama Plymouth is the perfect setting this summer!

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wagamama Plymouth is located at Brewhouse, 8 Royal William Rd, Plymouth PL1 3QQ - 01752 663200 August 2014 25

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH

LAURA WRIGHT

Glamorous soprano Laura Wright has become one of the biggest selling classical artists of our decade and performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the UK. Director of Oracle Magazine Myles Lockwood caught up with Laura to talk about her new EP and her upcoming performance, right here in Plymouth.

When did you first start singing and where did it all begin?

I started singing when I was 15. I did a competition with BBC Radio 2 called ‘Chorister of the Year’ and that was my first experience of performing. I was lucky enough to go on and win the competition and it all spiralled from there really!

Your new EP ‘The Sound of Strength’ was released on 30th June, can you tell us a bit about it?

It is a different style of music to what I have done in the past. It’s a real reflection of myself in a way, as it combines my two passions in life, which are sport and classical music. Over the past few years I have performed at a lot of sporting events and have been made the official anthem singer for the England Rugby.

So as a result of that, I wanted to create something very powerful and very empowering, especially to women, which is something I talk about a lot. I think of my body as an instrument in the sense that I train my body just like I train my voice. There’s a video for the new track,

01 August 2014

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and it’s all based around the sound of strength. Being strong is beautiful to me and I would really love other women to feel that.

Would you say the new track is the best work you have produced so far?

I think it’s definitely the most honest work I’ve produced. It’s taken me a long time to try and create this sort of music without turning my back on classical, because that’s my first love of music and where I have trained the most. It’s taken a while to find a way through different paths with producers who work in Drum and Base, Trip Hop and Dubstep and all different genres, and bring it together in a way that creates something very powerful and also something quite moving and emotional. I think classical music really has the power to do that.

You mentioned you are passionate about your fitness, which sport do you enjoy the most?

I play Rugby and I’m also really into Cross Fit, which is a crazy new sport that

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW is taking America by storm and slowly taking over in lots of different countries.

I’m into Yoga and Pilates as well, as it is my own time away from singing and helps with my breathing. I try to do things that complement each other, but I do love a good competitive game of Hockey or Rugby!

Do you have a daily fitness regime you follow to stay in shape?

Obviously at times it’s really difficult with travelling, but I try and do Yoga or Pilates in the morning as it starts the day off in the right way and then I’ll do something a bit more intense in the evenings. If I’m travelling around singing, I may just go for a run or something as I find it has a real positive impact on my personality.

“I think of my body as an instrument in the sense that I train my body just like I train my voice” Do you find being an accomplished sports person has helped you in any way with your singing career?

Massively! I think it’s kept my feet on the ground and helped me to keep things in perspective and as I said before, my body is an instrument and I train it just like I train my voice, so I think it has made me take my singing more seriously as well.

You are coming to Plymouth Pavilions on October 29th, supporting Paul Potts. Can fans expect to hear any new material?

Yes, it’s going to be all new material!

That’s the best thing and I’m so excited about it! It’s going to be an opportunity to perform my new music and I’ve got two wonderful musicians who are great friends of mine travelling around with me.

I’m just really looking forward to meeting the audiences and being able to build a relationship with them. I love being able to perform and for me, it’s the best part of my career so I’m really looking forward to it!

You have performed at some impressive venues, which is your favourite so far and why?

Twickenham Stadium has become a second home now. Even though I always get nervous, I feel like it’s a very special venue. I sang at Covent Garden Opera House as part of the Royal Ballet performance with the Royal Opera and

that was an amazing place to perform.

Alongside that, probably the Royal Albert Hall, which is of course a stunning venue.

It must feel overwhelming singing live in front of so many people. How do you manage your nerves?

I always get nervous, no matter how big or small the performance is. I try and manage my nerves by having 10 minutes of complete silence before I go out on stage and to try and create a really calm surrounding.

Do you do Yoga beforehand to calm your nerves?

I’ve started to! I have to be honest, I wasn’t into yoga until about 6 months ago but it’s actually really helped me find a process with breathing particularly, as it is such an important part of my job. I wouldn’t want the nerves to ever disappear though. The other alternative is that my mum always tells me to imagine everyone sitting on the loo, which would make me laugh!

Or the famous one is to imagine everyone naked!

Yes! Although, when you’re performing for the Queen that’s not really appropriate!

Which artists inspire you the most and who do you enjoy listening to?

I would have to say on my iPod at the moment, I love Coldplay’s new album.

I just want there to be more tracks on the album, because I love it! In terms of people who inspire me and are great soloists, it would be Billy Holiday and Russian Soprano Opera Singer Anna Netrebko, who has the most stunning voice. Also, my eldest brother is a massive inspiration to me as he’s just so passionate about music and that helped me discover music when I was younger.

“I love being able to perform and for me, it’s the best part of my career” If you could choose any artist to collaborate with, who would it be and why?

Oh my goodness, that is an impossible question! If it was anyone, I would have to say it would be my elder brother with Coldplay if that’s allowed?! He is an enormous fan of Coldplay and that kind of music. I think there are a lot of great bands out there, and also someone like Peter Gabriel who has stood the test of time.

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Laura performing at Twickenham Stadium When you’re not performing or playing sports and manage to get some time to yourself, what’s your favourite thing to do?

I have really got back into reading some good books at the moment. I love it in the summer time when the weather is nice, simply sitting in the park and getting my nose into a good book. It’s something I find really relaxing. My family are from Suffolk, so I try to go back and find a bit of peace and quiet there as well.

You are already one of the biggest selling classical artists of our decade, what else do you hope to achieve in your career?

There are a few things I would love to do next year. To perform at the Rugby World Cup would be a dream come true for me, obviously being held here it would be really special and something that would be very close to my heart. Then I would love to take my new music over to America. They are two of my aims for the near future! I think it would be the kind of music that they would respond really well to. I would also love to travel a lot more with my music and experience different cultures along the way.

Visit www.plymouthpavilions.co.uk to buy tickets to see Laura Wright supporting Paul Potts on October 29th. Her new EP ‘The Sound of Strength’ is available to buy now on iTunes, Spotify and Amazon.

By Lucy McGowan

August 2014 27

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August 2014 31

LEISURE

Photo: Chris Hopkins

Countdown to British Firework Championships begins Six of the UK’s best pyrotechnics companies are busy preparing for an explosive showdown when the British Firework Championships returns to Plymouth Hoe.

V

isitors from all over the world will be coming to see the skies light up above Plymouth’s spectacular waterfront on Tuesday 12th and Wednesday 13th August.

Hosted by The Event Services Association (TESA) in partnership with Plymouth City Council, the Championships celebrate their 18th anniversary this year and are one of the biggest annual displays put on by professional firework companies anywhere in the UK. Tens of thousands of Plymouth residents and holiday makers will head to the Hoe for two evenings of family entertainment, each culminating in three spectacular fireworks displays. More than four tonnes of fireworks will light up the skies as the country’s top pyrotechnics

32 August 2014

companies battle it out to be named the British Fireworks Champion 2014.

Shellscape from Maidenhead in Berkshire will open the competition on the Tuesday, followed by Blitz Fireworks from Crewe in Cheshire and Northern Lights Fireworks from Trowbridge in Wiltshire.

Entertainment will be starting from 6.30pm each evening, courtesy of Heart Radio. There will also be fairground rides and refreshment stalls and the first firework displays will start at around 9.30pm each evening as dusk falls.

Deputy Council Leader Peter Smith said: “The British Firework Championships is back and each year it seems to get better and better. Thousands of people enjoy this event and visitors come to Plymouth for a holiday specifically to see

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“Tens of thousands of Plymouth residents and holiday makers will head to the Hoe for two evenings of family entertainment” the fireworks.

“Plymouth Hoe is a perfect setting for this and everyone is guaranteed a great evening out. If you haven’t been to one of these firework shows before, this one is not to be missed.”

Keep up to date with the latest information on this event visit www.visitplymouth.co.uk.

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August 2014 33

LEISURE

What’sOn

AUGUST 2014

WEST SIDE STORY - THEATRE ROYAL PLYMOUTH PEOPLE OF PLYMOUTH 1914 26TH JULY - 21ST SEPTEMBER, VISITOR CENTRE, FORD PARK CEMETERY

Discover a local perspective on the life of families in Plymouth during the early months of the Great War in 1914. Free admission and no need to book. Exhibition opening hours are 10.30am to 3.30pm on Tuesday and Thursday and 12.30pm to 3.30pm on Saturday and Sunday.

WEST SIDE STORY 29TH JULY - 9TH AUGUST, THE LYRIC, THEATRE ROYAL

3RD AUGUST, TAVISTOCK TOWN HALL

The Big Summer Wedding Fayre is set to be a fantastic event not to be missed.

Visit a range of foodie marquees, have your photo taken in a fun photo booth, enjoy live music and chat to over 40 local wedding industry experts about your special day.

FIRST WORLD WAR COMMEMORATION 4TH AUGUST, CITY CENTRE

Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim’s West Side Story changed the course of musical theatre when it opened on Broadway in 1957 and it still remains one of the most successful stage shows of all time. Based on Romeo and Juliet, the score features the unforgettable songs Maria, Tonight, Somewhere, America and I Feel Pretty.

34 August 2014

BIG SUMMER WEDDING FAYRE

To mark this historic day Plymouth will be bringing together communities and visitors of all ages to commemorate the lives of those who fought and died in the First World War. In this act of remembrance we aim to make this a time for reflection and thought for everyone who attends.

PEPPA PIG LIVE 5TH - 6TH AUGUST, PLYMOUTH PAVILIONS

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Peppa Pig returns live on stage with super cute puppets and brilliant singalong songs in this brand new show that will brighten your day. So grab your wellies and brollies and get splashing!

LEE EVANS LIVE 7TH - 12TH AUGUST, PLYMOUTH PAVILIONS

Lee Evans comes to Plymouth try out new material for his forthcoming MONSTERS Arena Tour taking place over 50 nights in the UK and Ireland.

WILD ABOUT PLYMOUTH: SUMMER NATURE TRAIL 9TH AUGUST, WOODLAND WOOD NATURE RESERVE

Take a walk on the wild side at one of the city’s beautiful nature reserves between 10am and 12pm. Experts will help you identify the trees, plants, birds and animals you see and there will be

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LEISURE free activity bags for the children. Bring binoculars if you have them and wear appropriate clothing.

which is one of the biggest annual displays put on by professional firework companies in the UK.

BREAKWATER TO PLYMOUTH HOE SWIM 2014

FLAVOUR FEST 2014 15TH - 17TH AUGUST, THE PIAZZA

10TH AUGUST, PLYMOUTH BREAKWATER

The biggest food and drink festival in the South West is back for its eleventh year!

Flavour Fest takes place in Plymouth’s city centre where local and celebrity chefs share their tips of the trade.

The Chestnut Appeal for Prostate Cancer is holding its third annual Breakwater to Plymouth Hoe sponsored swim.

The first stone was laid on the Breakwater in August 1812; a massive 7 tonne foundation stone and some thirty years later was finally completed.

Today the Breakwater still protects those inside the sound and the swim from the mile long structure has been one done by individuals and clubs for many years.

BUGLE BOY 11TH –16TH AUGUST, THEATRE ROYAL

Bugle Boy traces the life of Glenn Miller and his tireless search for a unique band sound. Bugle Boy features all of his famous and instantly recognisable tunes including In The Mood, Little Brown Jug and Moonlight Serenade.

FIREWORK CHAMPIONSHIPS BRITISH FIREWORK CHAMPIONSHIPS 2014

Over 120 food and drink traders will be lining the streets tempting visitors with a range of local produce including fresh fish, cheese, cider and even something sweet. This will be a lively and exciting way to experience the true taste of the South West.

12TH - 13TH AUGUST, THE HOE

MEGA-RIDE 2014

Plymouth is again preparing to host one of the most exciting events in the UK; the internationally renowned British Firework Championships.

17TH AUGUST, THE HOE

Plymouth City Council coordinate the event in partnership with The Event Services Association and 2014 will be the 18th anniversary of the championships

This year will be the 20th Mega-Ride with thousands of bikers leaving Lee Mill Industrial Estate for the charity ride finishing on Plymouth Hoe where the bikers are greeted to a huge array of trade stands, catering stands and live music.

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August 2014 35

Let us assist you or a loved one to maintain a good quality of life using our high quality, short term, care packages, allowing family carers a well deserved break from full time caring.

We are here to support the older person who requires care and support as well as their family.

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August 2014 37

LEISURE

FilmGuide

AUGUST 2014

SIN CITY: A DAME TO KILL FOR

STEP UP: ALL IN IN CINEMAS FROM 1ST AUGUST Stars from the previous films come together in glittering Las Vegas, battling for a victory that could define their dreams and their careers.

Stars Alyson Stoner, Briana Evigan and Ryan Guzman.

THE NUT JOB An incorrigibly self-serving exiled squirrel finds himself helping his former park brethren raid a nut store to survive, that is also the front for a human gang’s bank robbery.

Stars Will Arnett, Brendan Fraser and Liam Neeson.

IN CINEMAS FROM 1ST AUGUST

38 August 2014

Stars Rebecca Hall, Alan Rickman and Richard Madden.

THE INBETWEENERS 2 IN CINEMAS FROM 6TH AUGUST

IN CINEMAS FROM 1ST AUGUST

A PROMISE

A romantic drama set in Germany just before WWI and centred on a married woman who falls in love with her husband’s protégé. Separated first by duties and then by the war, they pledge their devotion to one another.

Will, Jay, Neil and Simon head Down Under in this raunchy sequel to the record-breaking comedy. Last time we met the Rudge Park posse, they were causing chaos in Malia, Crete. Nearly a year on, Will, Jay, Neil and Simon have gone their separate ways. But when Jay emails the group to say he’s now become the biggest DJ in Australia, the threesome need no encouragement to leap on a plane for a wild Easter break.

Stars Simon Bird, Joe Thomas, James Buckley and Blake Harrison.

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GOD’S POCKET IN CINEMAS FROM 8TH AUGUST When Mickey’s crazy step-son Leon is killed in a construction ‘accident’. He tries to bury the bad news with the body, but when the boy’s mother demands the truth, Mickey finds himself stuck in a life-and-death struggle between a body he can’t bury, a wife he can’t please and a debt he can’t pay.

Stars Philip Seymour Hoffman, Christina Hendricks and Richard Jenkins.

ALL THAT REMAINS IN CINEMAS FROM 8TH AUGUST The true story of Dr. Takashi Nagai, scientific pioneer, war hero, Christian convert and survivor of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki, who worked tirelessly in his efforts to heal the wounds of a country utterly devastated by war.

Stars Leo Ashizawa, Yuna Shin and Meg Kubota.

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LEISURE THE EXPENDABLES 3 IN CINEMAS FROM 14TH AUGUST Barney and his team, known as “The Expendables”, come into conflict with ruthless arms dealer Conrad Stonebanks, the Expendables’ co-founder, who is determined to destroy the team.

Stars Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham and Jet Li.

THE ROVER IN CINEMAS FROM 15TH AUGUST 10 years after a global economic collapse, a hardened loner pursues the men who stole his only possession, his car. Along the way, he captures one of the thieves’ brother, and the duo form an uneasy bond during the dangerous journey.

Stars Guy Pearce, Robert Pattinson and Scoot McNairy.

THE CONGRESS

THE INBETWEENERS 2

IN CINEMAS FROM 15TH AUGUST An aging, out-of-work actress accepts one last job, though the consequences of her decision affect her in ways she didn’t consider.

Stars Robin Wright, Harvey Keitel and Jon Hamm.

THE UNBEATABLES IN CINEMAS FROM 15TH AUGUST Amadeo becomes an unbeatable football player on an arcade-version of the game installed in the small café laying in the small town he lives. Villian Grosso challenges Amadeo to a real football match and the arcade-game players come to life.

Stars Rupert Grint, Anthony Head and Peter Serafinowicz.

WHAT IF IN CINEMAS FROM 20TH AUGUST Medical school dropout Wallace has been repeatedly burned by bad relationships. So while everyone around him seems to be finding the perfect partner, he decides to put his love life on hold. He becomes friends with Chantry an animator who lives with her longtime boyfriend Ben. There is no denying the chemistry between them, leading the pair to wonder, what if the love of your life is actually your best friend?

Stars Daniel Radcliffe, Mackenzie Davis and Zoe Kazan.

struggling with his own personal issues, begins investigating a series of disturbing and inexplicable crimes. He joins forces with an unconventional priest, schooled in the rituals of exorcism, to combat the frightening and demonic possessions that are terrorising their city.

Stars Eric Bana, Édgar Ramírez and Olivia Munn.

LUCY IN CINEMAS FROM 22ND AUGUST

Stars Gil Darnell, Matthew John Morley and Andrei Zayats.

IF I STAY IN CINEMAS FROM 29TH AUGUST

A woman, accidentally caught in a dark deal, turns the tables on her captors and transforms into a merciless warrior evolved beyond human logic.

Life changes in an instant for young Mia Hall after a car accident puts her in a coma.

During an out-of-body experience, she must decide whether to wake up and live a life far different than she had imagined.

Stars Scarlett Johansson, Analeigh Tipton and Morgan Freeman.

Stars Chloë Grace Moretz, Mireille Enos and Liana Liberato.

SIN CITY: A DAME TO KILL FOR

MILLION DOLLAR ARM

IN CINEMA FROM 25TH AUGUST

IN CINEMAS FROM 29TH AUGUST

The town’s most hard-boiled citizens cross paths with some of its more reviled inhabitants. Dwight is hunted down by the only woman he ever loved, Ava Lord, and then watches his life go to hell.

A sports agent stages an unconventional recruitment strategy to get Indian cricket players to play Major League Baseball.

Stars Jessica Alba, Mickey Rourke and Rosario Dawson.

ONE NIGHT IN ISTANBUL

SOLDIERS OF THE DAMNED

DELIVER US FROM EVIL

IN CINEMAS FROM 27TH AUGUST

IN CINEMAS FROM 22ND AUGUST

Major Kurt Fleischer, war-weary commander of an elite troop of German soldiers, is ordered to escort a female scientist into a

New York police officer Ralph Sarchie,

mysterious forest behind enemy lines to retrieve an ancient relic. As his men begin to disappear in strange circumstances, Fleischer realises that there is something in the forest that is far more deadly than the Russians.

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Stars Jon Hamm, Aasif Mandvi and Alan Arkin.

IN CINEMAS FROM 31ST AUGUST A screen adaptation of the hit play about the exploits of a group of Liverpool Football fans at the European Cup final in Istanbul.

Stars Steven Waddington, Samantha Womack and Lucien Laviscount.

August 2014 39

HOME & GARDEN

Create a greener healthier home Most of us are concerned about the effect that we are having on our planet and do our bit towards reducing our carbon footprints. Most of us take basic steps to try and make our world a better place to live in, but are we doing enough? Do we give as much thought to what damage we may inadvertently be doing to our health by our choice of furnishings and decor in our own homes?

U

nbeknown to most of us we have been filling our homes with potentially toxic materials that are not only harmful in their manufacture and use to the planet, but also to ourselves when placed in our homes.

To improve your home environment and enhance your quality of life, use green eco-friendly decor and furnishings.

By choosing these readily available products you can greatly enhance the air quality in your home which is better for your health.

40 August 2014

When re-decorating, use paints that are chemical, heavy metal and volatile organic compound (VOC) free. There are plenty to choose from that are suitable for all painted surfaces and as they are completely non-toxic, they immediately improve the air quality in your home.

These natural paints are also very kind to the environment in general.

For flooring, look for carpets made from natural plant fibres or wool. Other carpets are produced using materials

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derived from petroleum, which is a pollutant. You can usually notice the chemical smell coming from a newly laid conventional carpet. This is not the case with those made from natural fibres, which produce no pollutants during either manufacture or daily use and are far healthier for your family. If your preference is for wood flooring, there is now a wide range of boards made from sustainable woods such as bamboo and cork.

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HOME & GARDEN In your kitchen go for countertops made from recycled materials such as crushed stones, glass or porcelain rather than ones made with conventional materials, which need toxic adhesives and chemicals to fit them. Kitchen cabinets have generally been made from synthetic wood and the glues used in their construction emit PVC, VOCs and other toxic vapours. Fortunately, there are now a few glues which are free from formaldehyde. Cabinets made from bamboo are becoming popular because of their attractive finish and sustainability.

In the garden, for lighting a pathway or entrance porch, choose solar lights.

These come in various designs and sizes and give off sufficient light for these outdoor areas. Solar powered water features are both attractive and energy saving. Not only are these products free to run, but there are no cables or cords lying around your garden or patio.

With just a little research and thought we can all take a step further forward in protecting our family and our planet next time we decide to re-decorate.

Did you know? Our indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than the outdoor air we breathe

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August 2014 41

42 August 2014

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August 2014 43

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