Plympton Magazine April 2024

Spring has sprung, the days are getting longer and the winter coats are back in storage. Inside this issue, we have lots of spring-themed editorials and some delicious recipes.

April is the month we are reminded to get active, with the longer days now here, we have more time to get those steps in! There’s plenty of ideas with activities you can get involved with any level of fitness.

You may have done a spring clean but what about a spring declutter? We’ve put together a checklist to get you started and make sure it’s manageable, we all know how regretful it can be when you pull everything out the cupboard and lose momentum!

We would also like to thank Dartmoor Zoo for offering the competition prize this month; A family ticket (4 persons, 2 adults max) for a day at the zoo!

I hope you enjoy this issue and have a wonderful April.

DECLUTTER FOR SPRING

Never mind cleaning away the cobwebs, lets clear away the clutter and enter spring with less to worry about.

Perhaps you’ve already spring cleaned your home and realised how much stuff you have, so for April it’s all about the declutter. A spring declutter is always better than a spring clean - the less we have, the easier it is to clean!

Do you remember as a child when you would pull out all of your toys from under your bed and in your cupboard? Take everything out your wardrobe and put the mountain of clothes on your bed? Then within the hour, regret and overwhelm creeps in and you ask yourself what on earth have you done? So you end up just chucking everything back where you got it and you’re no further forward. That’s what we’re not going to do this time round, we’ve learnt from our mistakes.

Before getting started, lets cover a few tips to ensure efficiency;

• Schedule into small chunks that work for you.

• Decide what needs decluttering - it doesn’t need to be done all in one day or a weekend.

• Create a realistic deadline to keep from dragging on indefinitely

• The less you have, the easier the cleaning

• Keep in mind your goal of how you wish your home to look and feel - this will keep you motivated

Ok, so now you’re ready to get this show on the road but where do you begin? We’ve put together a small checklist to get you started.

EntrancE hall

It may go without saying but the entrance hall is the first place you enter your home and it can become a

dumping ground for shoes, gloves, coats, umbrellas, keys, junk mail - you name it!

Only keep the shoes out for the season, pack the rest away. There are many cheap shoe storage options on Facebook Market Place and Ikea. This also applies for coats, only keep out what you need, over the door hooks are brilliant to hang on cupboard doors to hang your jackets.

Ensure the junk mail is recycled as soon as it you get it to avoid the buildup on the side.

lIVED In arEaS

Tackling the loft and the garage tends to always be top of the hit list for many, but you can lose hours and hours sorting out these areas but as soon as you close the door, you don’t see it again for weeks. Start with the easy wins first to get you gin the decluttering spirit.

Focusing on your most lived in areas like your living room, how lovely would it be to bask in the calm clean surroundings as you relax on your sofa. Rehome books you’ve already read and recycle old magazines or newspapers that have stacked up over time. Perhaps you’d like to rejuvenate the space and rejig the furniture, put away the winter throws and think about the items in the room - are they useful?

Declutter your kitchen so that cooking your evening meal becomes noticeably easier, this could be taking extra tins of food to a local food bank or discarding or repurposing chipped or broken crockery.

Our bedrooms should be of upmost relaxation, so

clear down the bedside tables and hung up those clothes ‘on the chair’ (we’ve all done it!) If you have space under your bed, store seasonal items like duvets, blankets and clothes in storage boxes and tuck them under. Avoid stashing things away if you have the space, be ruthless.

tacklE thE warDrobE

I think we’re all guilty of over filling our wardrobe and drawers and keeping those clothes we used to fit in 3 years ago, but we will get back into them this summer.

Tackling the wardrobe can be no easy feat but this isn’t about ‘out with the old and in with the new’, the fast fashion industry is causing devastating effects on the environment not to mention the landfills. Tackling the wardrobe simply means to go through your items of clothing and to be ruthless, have you worn it in the last year? If it’s a no, then it’s time to donate it. This is the same for clothing that is either too big or too small, either have it altered to fit you’re the way you wish or give it a new home. Clothes deserve to be worn, not locked away in a cupboard.

‘might use’ or ‘may fit into’ or children’s toys that haven’t been used, it’s worth asking yourself these questions;

• Do I need it?

• Why do I have it?

• What would I use if I didn’t own it?

• Does this bring me joy/add value to my life?

lESS IS MorE

A simple mantra to perhaps keep reminding yourself as you declutter your home is, the less I own, the easier it is to clean.

Trying to sell unwanted clothing can be a burden and stressful, when I’ve attempted this in the past the clothes ended up in a pile in the corner of my room for weeks. Just make peace with the fact the clothes are no longer serving you and support and donate them to your local charity shop.

If you have space, splitting your wardrobe into piles of seasons, it’s a good idea to used vacuum bags to store your clothing away compactly and protects them from dust!

aSk thE QUEStIonS

It can be hard to part ways with trinkets or items of clothing that we have an attachment of course, if something sparks joy within you then those of the things worth keeping. But for those other things you

I’m not suggesting to get rid of everything and have a home with no personality, but stuff is just stuff. We can’t take it with us when we go and it’s also worth noting that there is research that supports a cluttered home can affect anxiety levels, sleep and the ability to focus. The constant visual distractions can increase cognitive overload and even reduce our working memory!

We’ve all had those stressful moments when you can’t find your keys when you’re in a rush or a pen when you need it most. Having your home decluttered and organised immediately takes away that stress and anxiety.

So put on your favourite playlist, get yourself a nice cup of tea or even a cheeky wine and take your time tackling one room at a time.

Certain trinkets, items of clothing or things you forgot you had can take you down the path of sweet memories that give you joy. Don’t see decluttering as a laborious task, take your time and enjoy where it takes you!

“Your home is living space, not storage space” - Francine Jay

ACTIVE APRIL

Now is the perfect time to get out there and get moving. The sun is shinning, the days are getting longer - there’s no excuse to get active this April!

Active April is here! It’s that time of year when the days are getting longer, the sun is shining brighter, and the urge to get up, get out, and get moving is practically irresistible.

Whether you’re a seasoned fitness junkie or someone who’s just dipping their toes into the world of physical activity, there’s something for everyone during this month of motion.

Now, let’s talk about why Active April is such a big deal. Sure, it’s a catchy name and all, but there’s more to it than just a fun hashtag. This month-long celebration of activity is all about embracing the joys of movement and reaping the countless benefits that come along with it.

For starters, let’s talk about the physical perks. Getting active isn’t just about building muscles and burning calories (although those are definitely nice bonuses). Regular physical activity has been linked to a whole host of health benefits, including a reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Plus, it can help improve your balance, flexibility, and overall physical fitness, making it easier to tackle whatever life throws your way.

But the benefits don’t stop there. Oh no, my friends, getting active is also a surefire way to boost your mood and mental well-being. Ever heard of a little thing called endorphins? They’re the feel-good chemicals your brain releases when you exercise, and boy, do they work wonders. Just a short bout of physical activity can leave you feeling happier, more relaxed, and better equipped to handle whatever stressors come your way.

So, now that we’ve established why getting active is so darn important, let’s talk about some ways you can get in on the action this April. Spoiler alert: there’s no shortage of options!

walkIng/rUnnIng

It may sound simple, but don’t underestimate the power of a good old-fashioned walk. Lace up your trainers, grab your headphones, and hit the pavement for a leisurely stroll around your neighbourhood or local park. Not only is walking a great way to get your heart pumping and your muscles moving, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity to soak in some Vitamin D and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. If you fancy a bit of running, then why not opt for a good jog around some of the amazing trails we have in the South West.

bIkE rIDE

Dust off your bike and hit the open road (or trail) for a scenic bike ride. Not only is cycling a fantastic cardiovascular workout, but it’s also a great way to explore your surroundings and enjoy some fresh air and sunshine.

DancIng

Turn up the tunes and bust a move in your living room! Dancing is not only a blast, but it’s also a killer workout. Plus, you can tailor your dance party playlist to fit whatever mood strikes your fancy.

Channel your inner green thumb and spend some time tending to your garden. Not only will you get to enjoy some time in the sunshine, but you’ll also reap the rewards of your hard work when those flowers start blooming.

trY SoMEthIng nEw

Whether it’s tennis, squash, football or even golf, trying out a new sport is a fun way to challenge yourself and break a sweat. Who knows, you might just discover your new favourite hobby!

trY a claSS

From yoga to Zumba to spin class, there are tons of group fitness classes out there just waiting for you to join in on the fun. Plus, working out with others can help keep you motivated and accountable. Who knows, you might just discover your new favourite way to sweat

PIcnIc

Pack up some healthy snacks and head to your favourite outdoor spot for a picnic with friends or family. Bonus points if you incorporate some fun outdoor games like frisbee, football or rounders!

StaIrS

Skip the elevator and take the stairs whenever you can. It may seem like a small change, but those extra steps can really add up over time and help keep you active throughout the day.

SwIMMIng

We’re incredibly fortunate to have beaches on our door step to take advantage of! Swimming is a fantastic full-body workout that’s easy on the joints, making it perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels. If dipping your toe in the sea isn’t on your agenda that we have brilliant pools dotted around the south west!

JUSt MoVE & haVE FUn

At the end of the day, the most important thing is to just get moving and have fun! Whether it’s going for a walk around the block or doing some jumping jacks in your living room, every little bit counts. Hiking with friends, playing tag with your children or grandchildren, or trying out a new fitness class, finding activities that you enjoy is key to staying motivated and sticking with your active lifestyle.

So there you have it! No more excuses - it’s time to get up, get out, and get moving this Active April. Whether you’re looking to break a sweat, clear your mind, or simply soak in some sunshine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So what are you waiting for? Let’s make this April the most active one yet! Your body and mind will thank you for it!

What’s On South Devon

Plymouth vegAn mArket

Central Park, Plymouth

Saturday 27th April

New to 2024! Showcasing the very best independent vegan businesses and brands. Expect everything from street food to sweet treats and bakes, vegan cheese to ethical fashion brands, zero waste household to crueltyfree skincare and more!

britAin’s oceAn city running festivAl

Plymouth Hoe, Plymouth

Sunday 28th April

Together, you’ll celebrate the vibrant atmosphere of Plymouth, push your limits, and achieve incredible feats. Spread the word and this years running festival the most unforgettable yet.

men’s dAy out

Plymouth Albion, Brickfields

Saturday 6th April

Grab your pals, join the mass of big-hearted men marching 12km (7.5 miles) through Plymouth to make a difference to families in your local community who need the compassionate, expert care St Luke’s provides at the toughest of times.

the WizArd of oz

Theatre Royal, Plymouth 26th - 30th March

The sensational new production of one of the world’s most beloved musicals comes to Plymouth. This spectacular production will be truly magical for all the family.

PAlomA fAith

Plymouth Pavilions, Plymouth

Sunday 14th April

Returning to Plymouth Pavilions after releasing her sixth studio album in February this year, ‘The Glorification of Sadness.’ Share this new era with Paloma, be moved and inspired by her most personal album to date.

fused glAss WorkshoP

University Of Plymouth, Plymouth

Friday 12th April

You will be taught the basic glass cutting techniques and laying out fused glass designs in a friendly environment. Tickets include parking, hot refreshments and materials to create your own beautiful, fused glass masterpiece; 3x suncatchers, a string of bunting or 3x coasters.

fishermAn’s friends

Plymouth Pavilions, Plymouth

Saturday 6th April

Fisherman’s Friend have nine albums to their name, two feature films, a stage musical, a book, a TV documentary, they’ve played for royalty and to tens of thousands of fans in sell-out tours year in year out… No, it’s not The Beatles, Take That or One Direction – it’s The Fisherman’s Friends!

tAvistock street food festivAl

Bedford Square, Tavistock

Saturday 20th April

Whether you’re a fan of exotic flavours or classic comfort food, this communitydriven festival has something to satisfy every palate. To complement the food offerings, the festival also features a dedicated bar serving a wide selection of beverages.

rAngers AcAdemy

Dartmoor Zoo, Sparkwell

8th - 12th April

Rangers Academy is a full week packed with practical activities, lectures and animal encounters; giving you a range of exciting new skills (perfect for adding to your CV), Open to students aged 13 to 18!

Paloma Faith 2024 UK Tour

KITCHEN DESIGN FOR LUXURY LIVING

QUalItY anD

cUStoMEr SErVIcE at kF kItchEnS

Question: what do you do when a kitchen company lets you down? Answer: head straight to local family firm KF Kitchens instead. That’s what Carolyn from Plymouth did, and from the moment she walked into their fabulous showroom, she knew she’d come to the right place: “We had a look around and had a chat with them and we knew straight away that this was the place for us,” said Carolyn.

r ead our reviews

Carolyn and her husband had originally gone to another company, but that proved a non-starter when the firm wanted to provide a quote for a kitchen without even going to their home to see the space.

Thankfully, they had a completely different experience when they went to the KF Kitchens showroom at Faraday Mill, where owners Nathan and Derinda Damarell were only too pleased to arrange a home visit. Carolyn said: “At the time, the space was separated into two rooms – a kitchen at the window end and a dining room at the far end, with a wall in between them. We had all wall cupboards in the kitchen, and with the dining table as well, it meant we had a small, tight space. I had my own ideas about what I wanted, but when Nathan came around, he made suggestions and recommendations which gave me a much better idea about what we could do.”

The new kitchen design meant removing the separating wall to create one large room; replacing a side door to the outside with a window and a new section of wall; enlarging the archway from the kitchen into the spacious living room which boasts an attractive fireplace and countryside views; and creating a hatchway between the kitchen and living

room. Some of the original dining area has been retained at the back of the room, with some additional cupboards and a sink added by KF Kitchens.

Carolyn chose a contemporary Nolte kitchen in two colours – lava, and flame scarfed oak. The integrated appliances are from Siemens’ high-end studioLine, most of them wi-fi connected. The multi-function single ovens has a warming drawer, steam oven and conventional oven, and there are two extra-tall dishwashers, a freezer, and a fridge.

The island has an adjoining dining table and an induction hob with a downdraft extractor which can be lowered out of sight when not in use. Both new sinks are by Blanco, and the main sink has a Quooker Boiling water tap which provides hot, filtered cold, and boiling water. It also has a food waste disposer. The stylish look is enhanced further by an artificial ceiling with lighting above the island.

With plenty of drawers and cupboards now installed – including five drawers with internal drawers as well – it has freed up wall space for stunning shelving with lighting at the window end of the kitchen. All the work was done by the skilled contractors who KF Kitchens have worked with for many years.

“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.”

So, what difference has the new kitchen made? “It’s much more functional, everything is within reach,” said Carolyn. “It’s all been fitted in the right places, so although it’s a big kitchen, it’s made it easier and more pleasing to work in. We also do a lot of entertaining, and we now have space in the kitchen for people to spill in from the living room, so it’s more social as well.”

And what three words would Carolyn use to describe her new kitchen? “There are too many words to describe it! Efficient, user-friendly, versatile, spacious, inviting, sleek, beautiful.

“Nathan and Derinda were so nice to work with, nothing is too much for them,” added Carolyn. “They deliver a quality product with excellent customer service. We’re recommending them to lots of our family and friends now!”

KF Kitchens is an ambitious, local, family business that is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in a kitchen. From the moment you walk through the door of their studio, everything becomes possible and available to you, to achieve your dream kitchen.

How is this possible? For a quick look, check out their website (www.kfkitchens.co.uk), social media on Instagram (@kfkitchens) or Facebook. 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!

A PAWS FOR THOUGHT

4 weeks of non-stop pet appreciation! April is National Pet Month which means 30 days spent spoiling our furry or scaley friends!

It has been proven that pets relieve stress in work environments therefore we thought we’d hear from some of our Plymouth businesses who work with their pets to find out what they love about it. We also wanted to hear about the funny stories and the unfortunate accidents too!

I don’t know about you but as soon as I catch a glimpse of an animal, I immediately have the biggest smile on my face. Not only do they always look so adorably innocent but all they want in life is to love and to be loved and that is very wholesome. They honestly don’t care about your looming deadlines or workload, what they do care about is your happiness and the time you spend with them instead of leaving them at home all day.

Pets are completely selfless (though some cat owners may disagree) and that selfless energy is radiated throughout the workplace. Research has proven that pets can lower blood pressure, reduce stress/anxiety, prevent loneliness and uplift your mood.

Dogs, in particular, force you to get outside during your workday as they need to be walked or let out for the toilet. Taking time away from your computer and heading outdoors is going to have a huge positive impact on your mental health and stress levels. It allows you time to clear your head, prioritise things and live in the present moment rather than constantly thinking about that deadline in 2 weeks’ time.

It’s hard to think creatively when stuck in an office all day. Walking also increases creativity, perhaps you could take your meetings with you on a dog walk to enhance new ideas.

Pets can be very funny beings to watch and engage with. Whether they are running around in circles with a toy or slyly about to push something off of a shelf, pets always find a way to make us laugh whilst also creating a little bit of mischief.

Sometimes that mischief can lead to our four legged friends into some mucky situations. Soapy Dog specialises in Bichon Frise and small to medium breeds, getting them ready for spring and looking their best for the season ahead.

They can also boost attendance as you won’t need to rush home to look after them. Whether they’re a new pet or they suffer from a bit of separation anxiety, having them with you at work will also prevent any worries as you can always keep an eye on them.

When we think of bringing pets to work, we usually think of our furry four-legged friends, however, there are also health benefits to keeping fish in nerveracking environments to calm people down. Fish tanks in waiting rooms are very popular as it acts as an escapism from the world you are in as you focus on the fish swimming around their home. The sound of the water is also proven to reduce stress and contributes to the act of mindfulness.

WIN!

For a chance to win A FAMILY TICKET (4 PERSONS, MAX 2 ADULTS) TO DARTMOOR ZOO

...just answer these questions

What do you like most about Plympton Magazine?

NAME:

ADDRESS:

AGE:

What type of businesses would you like to see advertised in Plympton Magazine?

Which businesses have you used from the magazine and why?

POSTCODE:

CONTACT No:

Please send to: Plympton Magazine Reader Response, Unit 5, Bowker House, Lee Mill, Ivybridge, PL21 9EF by Friday 3rd May 2024.

T’s&C’s: The voucher is non-transferable and no change can be given. Voucher cannot be exchanged for cash. Must be aged 18 or over. Voucher can be redeemed at Dartmoor Zoo. Must be redeemed and used by 3rd May 2025

WOW! – a hearing aid that now understands what you want to listen to!

The world’s rst 4D hearing aid sensor technology doesn’t just lter and amplify sounds like traditional hearing aids; groundbreaking head & body movement sensors help the user to hear & communicate better in background noise. Against a leading premium hearing aid - Oticon Intent delivers a remarkable 35% speech improvement score in social situations.

Acoustics

Sensors gather 360º sound picture & monitors environmental changes

Head Movement

Sensors monitor how our head moves during conversations

Body Movement

Physical sensors anticipate our spatial awareness and how we move when listening & talking Communication

The new Oticon Intent, with its latest computer chip and communication sensors combine all the information it receives to now help users engage & hear in the world around them like never before.

We have cats and dogs of all ages, sizes, breeds and temperaments looking for new loving homes

Recipes SEASONAL

We have tried and tested these recipes incorporating some of the best seasonal veg!

Rhubarb Crumble Muffins

Serves - 12

IngReDIenTS

• 175g caster sugar

• 175g rhubarb, halved lengthways then diced

• 2 tbsp sunflower oil

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 125ml buttermilk

• 200g plain flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

For the crumble topping

• 50g light muscovado sugar

• 50g plain flour

• 25g porridge oats

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 50g butter

1Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Line a 12hole muffin tin with paper muffin cases. Stir the sugar and rhubarb together and set aside while you make the crumble topping. Mix together the muscovado sugar with the flour, oats and cinnamon, then rub in the butter until clumpy with your fingertips.

2

Stir the oil and egg, vanilla and buttermilk into the sugary rhubarb (don’t worry if it’s a little bit juicy). Now, add the flour, baking powder and bicarbonate of soda and stir well.

3

Quickly spoon into the cases, then scatter each with a thick layer of the crumble mixture. Bake for 15-18 mins until golden and a cocktail stick poked into the centre of a muffin comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.

Pasta Primavera

IngReDIenTS

• 75g young broad beans (can use frozen)

• 2 x 100g pack asparagus tips

• 170g peas (use frozen if you can’t get fresh)

• 350g spaghetti or tagliatelle

• 175g pack baby leeks, trimmed and sliced

• 1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra to serve

• 1 tbsp butter

• 200ml tub fromage frais or creme fraiche

• handful fresh chopped herbs (mint, parsley and chives)

• parmesan, shaved, to serve

1

2

Serves - 4 3

Bring a pan of salted water to the boil and put a steamer (or colander) over the water. Steam the beans, asparagus and peas until just tender, then set aside. Boil the pasta following pack instructions.

Meanwhile, fry the leeks gently in the oil and butter for 5 mins or until soft. Add the fromage frais to the leeks and very gently warm through, stirring constantly to ensure it doesn’t split. Add the herbs and steamed vegetables with a splash of pasta water to loosen.

Poached Egg on Avocado Toast

Serves - 2 IngReDIenTS

• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 avocado

• 50g feta

Drain the pasta and stir into the sauce. Adjust the seasoning, then serve scattered with the cheese and drizzled with a little extra olive oil. 2

• 1 tsp chilli flakes

• juice ½ lemon

• 2 slices of sourdough

Fill a large saucepan with water, add the vinegar and bring to a hard boil over a high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat so the water is simmering, then use a spoon to swirl the water into a whirlpool. Crack in both eggs and cook for 2 1/2 mins.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mash the avocado, feta, chilli flakes and lemon juice, and season well with black pepper. Toast the bread.

Pile the avocado and feta on the toast, then put a poached egg on top of each.