Plympton Magazine June 2024

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net

DESIGN EDITOR

Abigail Jones BA (Hons) editor@oracle.uk.net

ACCOUNTS

Emma-Jane Corry BS (Hons) emma@oracle.uk.net

SALES MANAGERS

Myles Lockwood

Tyler Cussen sales@oracle.uk.net

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Abigail Jones BA (Hons)

PHOTOGRAPHY

Front Cover - South West SUP Pixabay | Pexels | Freepik

SISTER MAGAZINE

OM Plymouth www.omplymouthmagazine.co.uk

Welcome... June

Summer has finally arrived and it’s time for more BBQs, exploring more of the South West and swimming and supping in warm(ish) waters. It’s also time for the June edition of Plympton. Inside this issue, we have two business profiles and how KF Kitchens has created a timeless kitchen in an extended Dartmoor home.

We caught up with Ashley Smith from H.M.Williams, 7 years later, to find out more about the accountants and the changes and additions made to the company since. Two years on and Spray Vision are busier than ever, so much so, that Dean took the leap and turned his passion into his full-time job.

Father’s Day is fast approaching so it’s time to think of what to do for the father figure in your life. We have found some of the best Dad’s Day Out ideas that are all local to Plymouth.

A huge thank you to South West Sup for offering our fantastic competition prize this month, giving the winner a family SUP session!

We hope you have a lovely month!

KITCHEN DESIGN FOR A TIMELESS FEEL

How KF KitcHens created a “timeless”

to Katie’s dartmoor Home

When Katie started refurbishing her 19th century home on the edge of Dartmoor, she faced the challenge of creating completely new living spaces downstairs that remained in keeping with the house and the location.

She decided to build an extension which would provide room for a spacious kitchen, dining room, and utility. She also wanted a bar. The dilemma was where to source the kitchen she wanted; how to incorporate a utility and a bar; and how best to furnish the dining room.

The answers emerged after she visited the KF Kitchens showroom at Faraday Mill in Plymouth and spoke to Nathan and Derinda Damarell, the experienced kitchen designers who run the family firm. Among the brands offered by KF Kitchens is the Burbidge Kitchen Makers™ range of hand-made, inframe solid wood furniture which can sit beautifully in any living space.

“I’d been to a couple of different companies, and they hadn’t been able to offer me the kitchen I wanted,” said Katie. “This was completely different. On my first visit to the showroom, Nathan gave me loads of ideas. And I really liked the Kitchen Makers range. I knew I wanted a traditional kitchen, but it had to be stylish at the same time, and timeless.”

The plan really started to come together when Nathan visited Katie’s home: “He drew everything up, and Derinda created the virtual look, so I had a vision,” she said. “I had started with an idea of one big kitchen, but Nathan suggested fitting a wall so that the utility room is separate. I really like that because it keeps things out of the way, especially when I have guests.”

After looking at various options of designs and colours, Katie chose the Kitchen Makers Somerton range in Bone, and an island in Baltic Green with a hob and extractor. The stunning quartz worktops are supplied by Plymouth firm, Mayflower Stone. All the integrated appliances are by Neff, and there’s a Quooker boiling water tap.

“I felt it was worth investing in the luxury of a Kitchen Makers kitchen because it’s such good quality and I know it will last,” said Katie. “And having the hob on the island was Nathan’s idea, because it’s more sociable when friends or family are here.”

The utility room is also by Burbidge in Baltic Green, from the Simply Burbidge range. But the inspiration didn’t end there, as Katie explained: “The dining room was another conversation. I wanted to have a bar, but I didn’t want it in the kitchen. So I decided to have it in the dining room where it’s better for entertaining, and the Kitchen Maker style was perfect.” The bar includes a drinks cabinet against the wall and a bespoke serving area with a tap.

KF Kitchens also installed a Kitchen Maker dresser, complete with warming drawers and an integrated dishwasher, and with a feature mirror and shelving from Armada glass.

Katie used her own contractors to build the extension and to do the flooring, decorating, electrics and most of the plumbing for the three spaces. KF Kitchens supplied and installed the kitchen, utility room, and the dresser and bar in the dining room, working closely with the contractors to ensure everything dovetailed.

“The installer for KF Kitchens, Kevin, was fantastic. He coordinated everything. Nothing was too much, and he bent over backwards to create the bar.”

Katie has no hesitation in recommending KF Kitchens to other homeowners looking for a new kitchen that meets their needs: “From the planning and ideas stage with Derinda and Nathan, to the fitting with Kevin, they went above and beyond to make sure I got exactly what I wanted. There’s such a difference between them and other tradesmen I’ve worked with. They care.”

So, what three words would she use to sum up their new kitchen? “Timeless, quality, stylish. But especially timeless.”

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!

Please mention The Plympton Community Magazine when responding to adverts

It’s been just over a year since we first met Dean and Sarah of Spray Vision and learned about their unique new business venture. It’s safe to say that their leap of faith has paid off remarkably well with Dean now given up his full time career to pursue their dream.

Dean’s journey into the world of professional spraying began with a college course that allowed him to explore various trades. His passion was ignited by professional spraying, leading him to a four-year apprenticeship at a leading vehicle body repair garage, where he honed his skills in vehicle repair and respraying. His training at the esteemed Thatcham Research Automotive Training Academy equipped him with the latest techniques and technology, and he earned an ATA qualification and level 3 NVQ, ensuring his knowledge remained current with industry advancements.

In 2019, Dean transitioned to spraying luxury yachts for Princess Yachts, where his meticulous attention to detail and high standards were crucial. His pride in his work on both vehicles and yachts fuelled his desire to excel in this craft.

During an Easter 2022 family visit to Florida, Dean’s discussions with his father about his painting business inspired him to start his own venture. Upon returning to England, Dean and his wife Sarah brainstormed and researched extensively, eventually launching ‘Spray Vision.’ With premium equipment, top-quality paint, and a custom transit van, they were ready to transform homes in Devon and Cornwall.

Their first projects were on their own home, where

Dean perfected his techniques, resulting in stunning, unique matt anthracite grey UPVC windows and doors, whole masonry repaint, a gorgeous two-tone kitchen, as well as a modern black media wall, and many other items Dean could get his hands on to spray. Showcasing their work on social media quickly attracted new customers impressed by the quality and service. Initially, they were focusing on exterior home restoration projects but as demand grew, they added internal projects to their list of expertise.

Spray Vision now specialises in spraying kitchens, dominating the market in Plymouth and nearby, but they also spray UPVC windows, composite doors, garage doors, cladding, masonry, and furniture including fitted wardrobes or old pieces that need some restoration! Using only premium products and paints which are extremely durable, robust, UV resistant and with their professional, practiced techniques they achieve a flawless factory finish. Their services are customizable, with no extra charge for unique colours. The majority of their work has been in their home city Plymouth, but they cover most of Devon and Cornwall and have completed jobs in Okehampton, South Brent, Paignton and Liskeard to name a few.

“It’s a big step to leave a full time, well paid job. We had to wait until the time was right.”

Even though the business has been going for just over two years now, Dean and Sarah both kept their jobs along side building Spray Vision. As the brand took off, appointments and jobs showed no signs of slowing down, to a point where Dean was faced with the decision; does he stay or does he go? So only seven months ago, Dean took the leap and left his very sought-after job at Princes Yachts, to give all his time and energy to Spray Vision. Sarah, previously a primary school teacher, opted to change career and go for a part-time role in admin to free up more time to spend dealing with the other side of the business for Spray Vision. Sarah manages client enquiries, quotes and property visits where she will inspect the work which needs to be carried out and bring colour wheels and sample charts. Their competitive pricing offers significant savings compared to full renovations, reducing waste and updating homes aesthetically. They pride themselves on organisation &

communication, and the customer always experiences minimal disruption. For your average kitchen respray Dean is only in the home for one day, with the bulk of the work completed at his workshop. They take all their rubbish away, clean all the kitchen surfaces, and often leave your home even more spotless than when they started! They find having a female on the team is particularly encouraging to some female clients, who prefer chatting with another woman and liaising with Sarah.

Over the last year, the business duo have introduced a new sign written van which has gained traction aswell as refining their process in regards to booking appointments, visits and the work itself. Dean and Sarah have also invested and upgraded to a larger workshop in Plympton ensuring they have the facilities for a prep area, drying room, painting room and storage area. They have also sponsored Plymouth Argyle Community Trust!

“One of the benefits of having our own business is that I am more present at home now, present with our family and two kids, I even sometimes manage to fit in the school run, which I couldn’t before!”

Going from full-time employment working for another to now working and only answering to yourself, there are many lessons to learn along the way. “So for me, my biggest lesson has been time management. I’ve always been a free spirit, doing what I do,” says Dean, “and between myself and Sarah, we have found a system that works which flows better.” Like most business owners starting out, the couple were accommodating appointments no matter the day and the time, whilst they are still flexible, they’ve now put a process in place to ensure they meet the needs of their customers but also their own family life.

Operating as a one man band, Dean toys often with the prospect of taking on an apprentice or whether to hire an extra set of hands of someone with industry experience. That being said, Dean does have a list of trusted qualified colleagues he has met through his years of working at Princess Yachts and the motor

trade, who come and assist to help with certain areas when needed.

“The best part of this job is the customer reaction. It’s like 60 minute makeover when they walk in. We have had tears of joy, hugs and always gasps of astonishment. I never got that in the motor trade or with yachts.”

The main objective at the moment is to get their name and services they offer out there, to build the brand and continue to grow their fantastic reputation. They have nothing but 5 star reviews across google and their facebook page! So many customers tell them they didn’t realise that spraying a kitchen would give such amazing results. The progression of this budding business would be eventually to have a team of employees and be able to work on larger industrial buildings and projects. Whilst there have already been offers, Dean does not yet have the man power to agree at present but that is definitely on the radar for the near future. However, they have began to branch out into commercial work with well known local companies like KF Kitchens, LA Bodyworks and Stormseal, colour matching dining tables to new kitchens or respraying damaged units, gutters, cladding and more!

With over 15 years of experience, Dean consistently delivers exceptional results, earning glowing reviews for both his craftsmanship and customer service. Considering the success the pair have had in such a short space of time, I think we can all agree the future looks bright for Spray Vision. We’re excited to see their continuation of providing high-quality, transformative painting services, making homes in Devon and Cornwall fresh and modern, one house at a time.

“We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished in such a short space of time and we’re excited to see what the future holds!”

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June 2024

What’s On South Devon

Plymouth summer sessions

The Hoe, Plymouth 13t - 16th June

The Hoe will come alive with music as it welcomes 15,000 fans to the first-ever TK Maxx presents Plymouth Summer Sessions. The 4-day festival will host headliners such as Tom Jones, Bryan Adams, Madness and Sting. Head to summersessions.com for tickets.

Armed Forces dAy

The Hoe, Plymouth Saturday 29th June

Armed Forces Day is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to come along and show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community from currently serving troops to reservists, veterans, cadets and their families.

the rehAbilitAtion

triAthlon

The Hoe, Plymouth Thursday 27th June

The Rehabilitation Triathlon 2024, hosted by the Royal Navy Recovery Centre Hasler, sponsored by AECOM and The Royal Marines Charity, is a Tri-Service adaptive event for wounded, injured or sick Service Personnel and Veterans.

rAce For liFe

The Hoe, Plymouth Sunday 2nd June

Walk, jog or run together in a group or go solo at your own pace, or lead the way as a Group Leader and get family, friends and colleagues involved! However you choose to get muddy, you’re helping to beat cancer.

Plymstock tribute FestivAl

Plymstock Rugby Club, Plymouth Saturday 8th June

Now in it’s third year, Plymstock presents a huge line up of the UK’s very best tribute acts all on one day. With a Kidzone Silent Disco, Street food & market areas, bars and camper van camping, it’s a great family day out!

FAther’s go Free At dArtmoor Zoo

Dartmoor Zoo, Sparkwell Sunday 16th June

If you’re looking for a memorable day out, bring your troop along for some fun and fresh air, explore our 33-acre site and see our beautiful animals. We’ll be teaming up with Hyped Events to bring you some exciting, competitive games to take part in such as Axe Throwing, Basketball and Curling!

hook And line bbQ And Fish mArket

The Hook & Line, Royal William Yard Every Saturday in June

Discover a variety of fresh and local seafood along with expert cooking tips and advice from the chefs. Why not enjoy some fantastic food straight from the BBQ - what better way to spend a sunny Saturday this June.

sociAl PAddle: south west suP

Firestone Arches, R.W.Y

Four days a week in June

Enjoy the instructor lead paddle sessions, whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just falling in love to the sport. The hour long sessions provides the perfect opportunity to explore the beautiful waters of our region.

DAD’S DAY OUT

We have created a list of our favourite things to do to treat your Dad to the Father’s Day he deserves - Sunday 16th June 2024

Time is the biggest and most valuable gift you can give to a person, so why not treat your Dad to some quality time, take him to one of these adventure-packed places and create some great memories.

continUe arcades

Step into a nostalgic wonderland filled with retro arcade games, pinball machines, and classic consoles. Watch his face light up with delight as he rediscovers childhood favourites and introduces you to the games that shaped his youth. With a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of gaming options to choose from, Continue Arcades promises an unforgettable Father’s Day experience for both of you. So why not challenge Dad to a game of Street Fighter or see who can achieve the highest score on Pac-Man? It’s a celebration of fun, nostalgia, and the timeless bond between father and child.

escaPe PlYmoUtH

Surprise Dad with an exhilarating adventure at Escape

Plymouth Ltd, located in the Plymouth City Centre. Step into a world of mystery and intrigue as you and Dad embark on a thrilling escape room challenge. Work together to unravel clues, solve puzzles, and beat the clock to break free. With a variety of themed rooms to choose from, ranging from daring heists to ancient mysteries, there’s something to ignite the imagination of every father-daughter or father-son duo.

PlaYer readY

Have you ever tried Virtual gaming? Nestled in the heart of the city, Player Ready offers a thrilling escape into the world of virtual reality and classic gaming. Treat him to a day filled with excitement as you battle it out in immersive VR worlds or team up for some nostalgic gaming throwbacks. With a wide selection of games and experiences to choose from, there’s something for every gaming enthusiast. Plus, with friendly staff on hand to guide you through the action, it’s the perfect place to try a new experience and put a smile of his face.

VaUlt 53

This Father’s Day, why not surprise Dad with an boozy experience for the taste buds at Vault 53? Located on Mutley Plain, this hidden gem offers a fantasic array of cocktails and boasts a selection of rum brewed right on site in their own distillery! Treat him to a journey through the rich flavors and aromas of meticulously crafted spirits. And for an extra special touch, why not sign up for one of their exclusive cocktail-making classes? It’s the perfect opportunity for quality bonding time as you both learn the art of mixology together, creating memories to cherish for years to come.

Ashley Smith

It has now been nine and a half years since Ashley Smith took hold of the rains at H.M.Williams Accountants, and seven years since we last sat down with Ashley to see how things have been going. With a new addition to Ashley’s business acumen, it seemed like the right time to find out what’s been happening with the local accountants.

In 2007, Ashley Smith joined H.M.Williams, bringing his accountancy experience from Truro, Cornwall. At the time, the firm was led by Hugh, an Eton alumnus, and his business partner Tim. Recognising the opportunity, Ashley aimed to prove himself capable of eventually taking the helm. H.M.Williams stood out not just for its small business services but also for its prestigious clientele, including landed estates, former cabinet ministers and Lloyds underwriters.

After completing his A-Levels, Ashley went down the apprenticeship route with a firm called J R Anson & Co. Located on the outskirts of Redruth in a place called Lanner, Ashley recalls starting in November 1998 and it being arguably the worst time to start in the industry as it’s a chaotic time with the tax return deadline just around the corner, at the end of January.

“[I] was given some accounting working papers and was told to spend some time to look through that and away you go really.”

Completing his three year AAT Qualification (Association of Accounting Technicians) in two years and starting his ACCA Qualification (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), Ashley moved to Truro to start in a 3 partner firm called Lang Bennetts where he gained experience working in an environment run effectively as three practises under one roof. Then after a few years, the opportunity presented itself at H.M.Williams and the rest was history.

Fast forward to January 2015, Ashley purchased the firm from Hugh, gaining full control and the ability to steer its direction. He introduced significant operational

changes, such as implementing timesheets to monitor staff performance and optimise client service, essential for their fixed fee model. The firm prides itself on transparent, tailored quotes, ensuring clients understand their fees upfront.

Ashley emphasised creating a friendly, approachable atmosphere, fostering strong client relationships, and maintaining an open-door policy for client inquiries. This ethos contributed to a familial work environment, easing Ashley’s transition from employee to owner. Notably, clients often formed personal connections with staff, reflecting the firm’s closeknit culture.

A major milestone was relocating to a new, more accessible office in Ashleigh Way, Langage Business Park, signifying a fresh start and a departure from the previous, less convenient location on Valley Road. The new open-plan office, designed by local firm Karris, offered ample space for future growth without extensive modifications.

When we last spoke with Ashley in 2017, he expressed his dreams of expanding the firm by potentially bringing in a business partner to share the workload and enhance the practice’s expertise. With dedicated managers, H.M.Williams was poised for continued growth with an aim to attract talented staff and maintain its reputation for exceptional client service.

One large expansion for H.M Williams was in 2020 and the welcoming of Metherell Gard. Still keeping H.M Williams separate, Metherell Gard, located in Morval on the outskirts of Looe, is a cornerstone of the local community and is renowned for its comprehensive and personalised financial services. Since taking over the business, Ashley wanted a more cohesive experience for the team and the clients so he has introduced changes, such as a cloud-based server, meaning the team are able to access the files from any location and deal with the workload between the two offices. We are also able to offer clients the opportunity to have work completed in a specific office, should they wish this.

Another string to the company’s bow is the offering of business books. Originally, these were written and updated annually by members of the team, but there has been a pause on publishing over the last few years. However, this is something Ashley would like to

bring back, as it isn’t something offered by other small firms that he is aware of.

So why choose H.M Williams? What makes the firm differ from others?

The team have always opted for a more personal approach as, let’s face it, tax and accounting can be quite stressful so without sounding cliche, they aim to take away the stress surrounding it. With Ashley’s previous work history, he’s implemented a ‘One Stop Shop’ approach, meaning clients aren’t passed from pillar to post and you will deal with one associate. This allows the team to treat each client and their case with individual attention, providing a comprehensive overview and personalised service.

“My favourite part about this line of work, for me, is meeting the clients.”

Both firms serve a diverse clientele from the South West and beyond. Ashley’s audit visits encompass a wide range of businesses, from optometrists and

cookery schools to farms and stables. Contrary to the notion that accountancy is purely a desk job, Ashley thrives on the opportunity to meet various clients, travel to different locations, and learn about other industries.

In the next five years, Ashley aims to continue building a strong team. With a succession plan in place, six staff members are currently training for their Chartered and Technician qualifications, expected to be completed within the next two years. While there are no plans to merge H.M Williams and Metherell Gard, as both firms operate successfully as separate entities, Ashley remains open to expansion opportunities. So, watch this space.

Why Howard & Over?

If you’re seeking a trusted local partner to navigate the commercial property landscape in Plymouth, Ivybridge, or beyond, we can help! With decades of combined experience, our dedicated team will provide you with tailored legal solutions, addressing your specific needs.

If you would like to find out more, please speak to our specialist commercial property team at Howard & Over and let us help guide you through the whole process with confidence and clarity.

01752 556606

We are specialists in loft ladders and hatches for easy and safe access to your loft. We can provide boarding, lighting and insulation solutions. Call us now to find out how we can help you turn your lost space into a really useful loft space.

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