Plympton Magazine January 2023

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 Plympton Magazine are that of the individual contributor and are not always shared by the

Happy New Year! I hope you’ve all had a lovely Christmas and are excited for what 2023 will bring. We are starting this year off with a great edition of Plympton! In this issue we have three business profiles, lots of interesting editorials and some Veganuary recipes. New Year, New Career? The Murray Group, Plymouth tells us why we should consider joining their friendly team. Find out the benefits of working for The Murray Group.

Mike LeGassick talks all about saving your hard-earned money. He also speaks about his book, ‘Your Money, Your Life’ which goes into more detail about finance advice and investing.

Ashley, owner and founder of Swaye Electrical tells us all about his Plympton-based electrical company and what makes them unique.

K.F Kitchens tells us the story of how Plympton couple, Mike & Sue Taylor, received a kitchen and living room transformation by the KF Kitchens team.

We hope you have a great start to the year.

Amy Fry - Editor

MAKING YOUR HOUSE A HOME

Renovation tips and ideas for your home sponsored by brilliant local businesses.

Given the current state of the housing market, more people are opting to improve their own house rather than buy a new house. 2023 is forecasted to drop house prices by 5% which is good news for the buying market however, the current competition for houses is still very intense. For many people, the best option for now is ‘improve, not move.’

Given the current state of the housing market, more people are opting to improve their own house rather than buy a new house. 2023 is forecasted to drop house prices by 5% which is good news for the buying market however, the current competition for houses is still very intense. For many people, the best option for now is ‘improve, not move.’

Whether you’re wanting to make your house a home or increase the market value for when it comes to selling, we have gathered together some of the best local businesses in and around Plymouth to help you get the job done.

With the cost of living eating into our pockets, it’s important to get the right balance between affordable and premium quality. A cheaper option may sound appealing at the moment but may not last as long in the long-run costing you more to replace overtime. Investing a little bit more money into high-quality products will also have more of a high finish overall. This doesn’t mean you can’t cheap-out on other things to make the job more cost-efficient.

Exterior

Increasing the curb appeal of your house is just as important as renovating the interior. It’s the first thing people see when approaching your home and the first thing you notice when searching to buy.

Let’s begin with the front door. If your door is looking a little tired or needs fixing, The Door Doctor based in Plymouth can help transform your door without having to buy a new one. The Door Doctor UK Ltd stock all the parts needed for professional door, window and double glazing repairs in Plymouth.

Cleaning and fixing your windows will make your house look bright and fresh whilst helping to keep the heat in during the winter months. Along with cleaning the windows, dirty gutters can also make your house look tired so it’s best to get them cleaned annually and to prevent any moss and debris buildup.

Garage doors are easy to neglect as they are more practical than aesthetic, however, a garage door covers a very large portion of your house so it deserves some attention. Garolla offers roller garage doors in 21 different colours. They are also acoustic and thermal insulated which will save you a lot of money in heating bills in the long run. These garage

doors not only look smart but also save valuable space in your garage as they roll upwards, out of the way.

A common reason to move house is lack of space. Opting for an extension to your house could save you a lot of money and increase the market value of your home. Adding an extra bedroom upstairs and extending the size of the kitchen will transform your home and give you the space you require. You also have the flexibility to design it however you want rather than purchasing a new home that perhaps fit somebody else better.

Bi-folding doors from your kitchen to your garden are very popular additions to houses as they bring the outdoors in and flood the kitchen with natural light.

AJM Building Design, based in Plympton, have worked extensively on a range of projects both in type, complexity and demand since 1992. Whether it’s a domestic extension and remodelling of an existing house to maximise its potential or new housing developments, they are committed to providing a personal, tailored service, something which can be lost in large corporate structures.

Give your roof a new lease of life with Precision Roofing. Covering Plympton, Plymouth and the surrounding areas, they will be able to transform your roof which will uplift your whole house.

Interior

Kitchens are typically the heart of the home. You cook, host, eat and socialise in your kitchen so they are really important to invest that little bit more money to get them exactly how you want. KF Kitchens in Plymouth specialise in fitted kitchen and bedrooms in a fantastic range including traditional, timeless, elegant and contemporary cutting-edge design. Take a look at Nolte, at KF Kitchens, and be inspired by its quality, design and fully integrated appearance. Or if you’re after a more traditional finish, Burbidge & Son and Kitchen Makers Collection have a range of elegant timber painted doors in understated colours such as, Baltic Green, Putty, Soft Grey, and Seal Grey.

Replace or re-paint interior doors will bring a new lease of life to your home. Complete with a change of door handles will really help to make a big impact on a budget.

Flooring is one of the first things you notice when walking into a house so it’s a good idea to spend a little bit more to get it right. Russells Flooring Ltd, based in Plymouth, fit a wide range of flooring from carpet and laminate to real wood and tiles. They’ve got flooring covered!

If you are planning on doing some DIY yourself, we recommend you use Borrow Don’t Buy. Borrow Don’t Buy is Plymouth’s very own Library of Things (LoT) with nearly 500 items in our ever-growing Inventory there’s a good chance we have something you could do with! Why buy a drill when you’ll only ever use it once? Sign up to become a Borrower, and for just a few pounds, borrow what you need, when you need!

There are a lot of mistakes to be had when renovating a home which could cost you valuable time and money. Depending on the size of the project, it’s important to put a fair amount of planning behind the project. Aim for a budget but have realistic expectations of how much it will all cost. There may be hold ups or additional complications which may require more money.

If you have just moved into the house and are wanting to renovate as soon as possible, our advice is to hold off for a while to learn how the house works for you. You’ll be able to find out where the sun shines through, where the social spots are and where the washing ends up. This way you can build the house around your lifestyle.

If you are planning an extension or a complete renovation to your house, always ask plenty of questions to ensure you achieve exactly what you strived for. Besides, it’s your money you’re spending, you’ll want it to be right.

With this in mind, we hope you are able to transform your house into the home you have always dreamed of.

NEW YEAR, NEW CAREER?

Why the Murray Group is a great place to start your career in the automotive industry.

2022 sees local car Dealer Group, Murray Group, celebrate twenty-two years as a key player in the local area. From humble beginnings as a Sponsored Volkswagen Retailer, with 85 people across two sites in Newton Abbot and Plymouth, we have grown over the past two decades to in excess of 240 people across seven sites with eight manufacturers.

Our Brand partners now include Skoda, Trade Parts Specialist and, as a result of an acquisition in December 2021 of the well-respected local dealer group Rodgers of Plymouth, we are now excited to represent Kia, MG and Hyundai across the city too. The Murray Group are numbered in the top 250 automotive businesses in the UK and have been recognised for both individual and team awards across a variety of platforms.

We are immensely proud to represent innovative brands that consistently push the boundaries of technology. We are also immensely proud of the reputation that we have built amongst our loyal customer base and that is entirely down to our

people – who make the Murray Group so much more than just a business – they make us a family. It is this incredible culture that sets us apart from our competitors.

The Murray Group employ over 240 people in the local area and offer a variety of different careers for anyone hoping to get started in the automotive industry or ambitious individuals hoping to progress within a supportive, agile business. We believe that training is key to recruiting and retaining the right people and we offer continued professional development opportunities for individuals in roles across the business.

Group HR Manager Keri Brisley says: “I believe 100% that the success of this business is wholly down to the people we employ”. As a business, we are truly committed to recruiting individuals whom we believe will be able to carry out the needs of their role to the best of their abilities – whether they have industry experience or not. We also believe in investing in those people and as a result, we are proud to say that around 40% of our team members have been in post for five years or more.

Keri is just one example of this – having joined the Murray Group as an Administrator back in 2004. Keri undertook several CIPD qualifications and is now Group HR Manager. In an historically male dominated industry, Keri says of her 18 year career with the Murray Group:

“It is extremely unusual to be able to grow and progress your career as a woman whilst taking the time out to have two children and yet I have done that with the group.”

In fact, Murray Group embrace diversity and are proud of the fact that we have a substantial number of women working in senior management positions across the business – from HR, Finance and Marketing to Aftersales and Parts.

We are passionate about offering apprenticeships to individuals for both technical and non-technical roles across the group, and the possibilities for career development from these beginnings are immense.

We have recently launched our first, bespoke Leadership Training Programme, in conjunction with Martec Training. Six individuals from areas across the business were selected to take part in the first programme, which aims to hone their skills and equip them to become the leaders of the future in their chosen business area. The programme kicked off in late November and our first attendees thoroughly enjoyed the sessions.

Sales Executives Laura and Ross told us: “Prior to the course starting, we weren’t sure what to expect but the first few sessions have been incredibly interesting. They have made me think about different ways in which I can approach situations and I find I am already putting these into practice in my working life. I’m definitely learning a lot.”

Promoting a healthy work/life balance is of paramount importance and 2022 saw us proactively reviewing the working hours of our technicians. In conjunction with the technician teams, a working pattern was agreed that saw our colleagues undertaking a longer working day for part of the week, which in turn, means that

every member of the team is guaranteed a three day weekend every other week.

One of our technicians told us:

“ Every other week, I finish work at 4pm on a Thursday and don’t return until 8am on Monday morning. This is against the norm for my role and industry and makes a huge difference to my personal life.”

This scheme, trialled within the Skoda team 12 months ago has been introduced across half of the Murray Group franchises to great success, and will be rolled out to the remaining teams in 2023. Not only are our teams happier and healthier but they are also more productive. Additionally, the longer working hours during the week mean that our Aftersales Services are available for a longer time to our customers too.

From technical roles to admin, finance, service washing, sales and marketing – a career in the automotive industry can be hugely rewarding. A career with the Murray Group , which prides itself on being a high performance business based on exceptional customer service, can be so much more. We genuinely believe that to succeed, we have to have fantastic people who are prepared to go the extra mile, to treat customers and other staff how they expect to be treated and above all else – people who want to work for a company who have ambitions to be the very best in the South West. Murray Group isn’t just one of those companies who claim to put our people first – we really do.

So, whatever your future ambitions, if you’re looking for a career within an award-winning, family run business, why not take a look on our website at our current vacancies? If you don’t see the role you’re looking for, don’t worry! We are always on the look out for ‘Murray People’, so drop us your CV anyway. If you are hardworking, dedicated and have the ability to put customers at the forefront of everything that you do –we want to hear from you.

You never know – 2023 may just be the start of your new career as part of the Murray Group! We are looking forward to hearing from you to begin your new career with an outstanding local employer.

Healthwatch Plymouth is the independent consumer champion for health and social care in Plymouth. Local Healthwatch organisations were established under the Health and Social Care Act 2012 as fully independent bodies run by local people, for local people. We are part of a national network of 152 Local Healthwatch.

Healthwatch Plymouth is here to give the people of Plymouth a stronger voice to influence and challenge how local health and social care services are provided.

We are responsible for:

• Enabling people to share their views and concerns about health and social care services in Plymouth.

• Helping to build a picture of where services are doing well and where they can be improved.

• Providing authoritative, evidence-based feedback to organisations responsible for commissioning or delivering local health and social care services.

• Working with NHS Devon and Plymouth City Council to help make sure that services really are

designed to meet local people’s needs.

• Ensuring that the views and experiences of patients, carers and other service users are taken into account when local need assessments and strategies are prepared.

• Providing people with information about what to do when things go wrong; this includes information on how to complain and signposting people to the local NHS Advocacy service.

• Providing or signposting people to information about local health and care services, and how to access them.

You need services that work for you, your friends and family. That’s why we want you to share your experiences of using health and care with us – both good and bad. We use your voice to encourage those who run services to act on what matters to you.

Everything that Healthwatch Plymouth does brings the voice and influence of local people to the development and delivery of local services. We are here for YOU.”

KF Kitchens transforms the heart of couple’s home to create a stunning kitchen & living space

Mike and Sue Taylor knew exactly the kitchen they wanted the moment they stepped into the KF Kitchens showroom: “Once I saw it, I had to have it,” said Sue.

“It was just perfect for what we were looking for.”

We were the third company that Mike and Sue contacted when they started their kitchen quest - and the only one with a showroom. Suddenly, they were able to see - and feel - real life, working kitchens. It was a game changer!

The kitchen that really caught their eye was our Nolte kitchen in concrete stone - inspired by nature and guaranteed to add a touch of style to any home.

But it wasn’t simply a new kitchen that Mike and Sue were after: it was a whole new living space that would open up a large area of the downstairs of their house in Plympton and also connect the living space to their beautiful garden.

The original lay-out had a long, narrow kitchen with a window above the sink looking out to the garden; an oven and units alongside the external side wall; and a breakfast bar which faced an internal wall between the kitchen and the separate dining room. At the far end of the kitchen was a utility room that also required updating.

To create the new kitchen and living space, we removed the internal wall and built the kitchen in what was the old dining room. We transformed what was formerly the kitchen into a new lounge and dining area and knocked down a part of the external wall facing the garden to remove the old window and instal patio doors. The utility room was also given the fresh Nolte look.

The project means the couple are now utilising the full space in their home - which wasn’t the case before: “When these were two different rooms, we never used the old dining room - we called it the forgotten room,” said Sue. “And we sat at the breakfast bar, facing the wall.”

The transformation process got under way as soon as they got in touch with us: “The experience we had with KF Kitchens was completely different,” said Sue. “With the previous two companies, we were shown brochures and samples, but we couldn’t actually see what the kitchen would look like. With KF Kitchens, we could go into the showroom and see everything working. And as soon as I went in, I saw this kitchen.

“I loved the texture, it’s beautiful - and it’s impossible to leave marks on it. And then I saw the Silestone sink, and I wanted that as well. But it all came together really when Simon, the designer at KF Kitchens, came to the house. He was fantastic. Nothing was too much trouble.”

The structural work was done first so that the internal wall could be removed and supports put in, and the external wall was opened up for the patio doors. From there, it was a case of creating the Taylors’ kitchen and living space just as they envisaged it.

They chose an illuminated MatrixArt handle-less rail system for the Nolte kitchen cupboards and drawers - this is a real statement that adds to the clean line elegance of the kitchen while also bringing a homely ambience with adjustable lighting to match the mood of the moment.

The kitchen has integrated Neff appliances including a Wifi Slide & Hide oven, a Quooker boiling water tap, spotlights, and Quartz worktops that allow plenty of space for food preparation and entertaining. Another nice touch is an extractor hood for the hob which doubles up as a storage space for a spice rack: “The fitter also went above and beyond to conceal the extractor fan workings by creating housing for it within the cupboards,” said Sue.

In the dining area, Mike suggested a special light feature for the centre of the ceiling, which we were able to create - another fabulous statement piece. The result of the work is that the Taylors now have a living space for life: “For 12 years, we didn’t even use the dining room,” said Sue. “So, we now not only have a new kitchen that will last us forever; we also have a fabulous living area - and it all connects to the garden through our new doors.

“It has made such a big difference to our home, and how we enjoy our home. It’s worth every penny.”

The work was designed and project managed from start to finish by KF Kitchens, with our skilled fitters, builders, plumber, electrician, door and window fitters, and decorator: “It was seamless,” said Sue, “the whole process was brilliant and there was a solution for everything. I can definitely recommend KF Kitchens, 100% - I really can’t fault a thing.”

SHAPLA BALTI CUISINE

Wins ‘Best Curry Restaurant in Plymouth’

The Bangladesh Caterers Association held the annual awards night, now in its 16th year, to announce the winners. The theme for this year’s event was ‘celebrating success and inspiring others’. Shapla Balti was chosen out of hundreds of nominees and was judged based on its innovation, presentation of food, hygiene standards and customer service.

Moshahid Ali of Shapla Balti, Plymouth says: “We are so proud! Our hard work and love for making curry has been recognised. Thank you, BCA for this award. Thank you for recognising our talented team, our chef and importantly the contribution we are making to the curry industry. Times have been tough; times are still tough, and this award makes a big difference. It’s a triumph! We ask everyone locally to continue supporting us.”

Mr. Mitu Choudhury, Secretary General, BCA says: “BCA Awards celebrates the very best of the Bangladeshi curry industry, shining a light on great local curry houses! All the winners are inspirational, creating some of the best experiences on the high-street.”

Saidur Rahman Bipul, Chief Treasurer BCA says: “All BCA winners are not just inspiring, they are keeping the legacy of British curry alive. The awards show the best of what our curry houses have to offer.”

Sir Gary Streeter MP for South West Devon and his wife Madam Streeter joined Mr Ali and his business partner and family at the awards night to support the Plympton-based Balti restaurant. Mr Ali feels blessed

to know that Sir Gary Streeter and his wife attended the awards night especially for Shapla and the other curry houses in the area.

The awards night took place in the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hall in London and was joined by hundreds of hopeful nominees from across the UK. The competing restaurants were all of such a high standard which gave Mr Ali such pride in winning the best Balti house in the South West Region 2. The awards night was also joined and presented by celebrity chef and BBC Masterchef presenter Gregg Wallace.

Mr Ali of Shapla Balti Cusine would like to thank all their customers for their continued support by dining with them and writing wonderful reviews online that has enabled Mr Ali to be considered for this award. He would also like to thank everyone who voted and supported them, without you, they wouldn’t be in the position they are today.

We are proud to announce that on the 30th October 2022, Shapla Balti Cusine from Plympton, were awarded ‘Best curry restarant in the South West Region 2’ at the Bangladesh Caterers Association 2022 Awards.

Mr Ali and his team would like to wish everybody a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

TALKS SAVING MONEY

Happy New Year! I hope this article finds you and your family well. It has been a chaotic couple of years with Covid and the Ukraine war, so let’s hope 2023 brings some peace, stability, and normality back our lives. I imagine the Ukraine situation is unfortunately going to rumble on for a while yet. This tragedy is the root cause of the global cost of living hikes we are all having to deal with. Historic long-term inflation is around the 2.5% per annum mark. Right now, we are around 11%. This is temporary and is beginning to slow, but it will take a while before it comes back into what can be deemed ‘normal’ territory.

With all the chaos we have experienced over the last few years, I feel it is important to reiterate some timeless truths:

• The economy can’t be forecast.

• The market can’t be timed.

• Therefore, the correct time to invest for the long run is whenever you have the money.

• By the same logic, the correct time to sell investments is whenever you need the money.

• Everything else is commentary and speculation.

I can’t advise you on economic and/or market timing. No shame on me for that: neither can anyone else, as the last nearly three years of chaos conclusively demonstrate. I am much more interested in creating lifetime retirement/legacy plans with and for my clients, then spending the rest of my relationships with clients making sure that their plans come to fruition and generate an income that cannot be outlived.

Where Can I Reduce Costs?

As most people are more closely examining where their money goes every month and any areas where they can make savings, I would like to recommend Martin Lewis’ website for this type of information. https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/ Mr. Lewis does often sail quite closely to the wind when giving financial advice because he is not regulated or qualified to do so, however, there is no denying that his website is a great source for up-to-date money saving ideas, tips, and deals. I strongly recommend you add it to your website favourites and dive in every now and again. I get no reward for recommending his site, I just think that it is one of the best ones out there to get

quick up to date information for consumers to assist in making things a little easier.

In this digital age we live in, many of us have become victims of the ‘Auto Renew ‘ syndrome. It can be extremely costly. Cancel automatic subscriptions. Chances are, you’re paying for multiple subscriptions like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Spotify, gym memberships, and annual mobile phone subscriptions. These costly renewals often go unnoticed. It’s time to cancel any subscriptions you don’t use regularly. The annoying ones are the ones we no longer use and have forgotten about. Check your Google auto renew page to see who is still happily taking your regular subscriptions. And make sure that you turn off autorenew when you make a purchase. If you cancel it and decide you can’t go without it, subscribe again—but only if it fits into your new and improved budget.

And for those subscriptions you do want to keep around, think about sharing memberships with some family or friends. A lot of streaming services, like Netflix let you watch your favourite shows from two or more screens (with an upgraded account). That way, everyone wins—and saves!

Accessing Pensions During Tough Times

We all know that a pension is designed to generate an income for us in retirement, but you can you access them early if you feel you need to. Whether you have personal pensions kicking around or whether you have an old or existing defined benefit/final salary schemes, you can access them from age 55.

It certainly will not be the best thing to do for most, but if needs must? If you have any personal pensions,

Meet Mike LeGassick

you can access up to 25% of the value of them tax-free from age 55. If you have an old or existing defined benefit/final salary scheme, you have the possibility of transferring it to a private pension to access benefits flexibly. This could be used to pay off debt early and allow someone to go part-time by using their pension to subsidise income.

Unfortunately, the transfer option is not available to you if you are in or were a member of the Civil Service, NHS, Armed Forces, Emergency Services or Teachers’ final salary pension schemes because these are unfunded public sector schemes.

Transferring a final salary pension scheme should never be taken lightly as these schemes provide guaranteed and rising incomes in retirement. The professional advice process in looking into the financial viability of transferring is lengthy and thorough and you should only ever seek advice from suitably qualified independent financial advisers who can evidence that they have the appropriate qualifications and experience to advise you in this area. Never speak to any cold caller who says they can get your pension out quickly and cheaply. It will be a scam and you could lose your entire retirement savings. Always carry out thorough due diligence on any company you are thinking of using. Manning and Company have been established for over 30 years and have the credentials to advise in this area.

On the subject of retirement planning, I have learned a great deal during my 30 odd years as an adviser. So much of retirement planning focuses on the money side.

DON’T PANIC MR.

In over 30 years as an adviser, the single biggest mistake I see long-term investors make is confusing volatility with the permanent loss of capital. These are 2 very different things. Losing money by pulling your money out when you don’t need it just because the markets are temporarily down is a purely human achievement. Markets will always be temporarily down at times during your investment timeframe. Quick tip, they always come back stronger and reach new highs. It is the way markets have always behaved and as an investor you must learn how to behave yourself to wealth.

The 4 most dangerous words an investor can utter are “this time is different”. It never is, it just feels this way at times. Knowledge is not enough to alter human behaviour, it takes discipline. 70% of my job as an investment specialist and a Behavioural Investment Coach is spent managing my client’s behaviour around money. It is making sure that none of my clients make The Big Mistake, panicking. Doing the wrong things at the wrong time for the wrong reasons.

If you want to find out more on how to be a smarter investor and how much money you need to retire comfortably and stay comfortably retired, please contact me on 01752 837950 or visit my client education and behavioural investor website which brings all the above to life: www.saverbehaviour.co.uk

Mike is the author of Your Money and Your Life available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/YourMoney-Life-Strategies-Getting/ dp/1716233372/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1BX

Too much in fact. If you’re less than 5 years away from retirement. Start thinking about investing in your social assets such as old friendships, hobbies, and interests. Start investing in them. You will reap the benefits. w: saverbehaviour.co.uk

Please send to: Plympton Magazine Reader Response, Unit 5, Bowker House, Lee Mill, Ivybridge, PL21 9EF by Friday 3rd February 2023.

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 Hub Box Plymouth. Must be redeemed and used by 4th April 2023

RECIPES VEGANUARY

Vegan banana & walnut bread

Serves - 8

• 50g coconut oil or sunflower oil, plus extra for tin

• 200g self-raising flour

• 25g ground almonds

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 75g light muscovado sugar

• 4 dates, finely chopped

• 3-4 very ripe bananas, mashed

• 3 tbsp soya milk

• 75g walnut pieces, toasted

ONE Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Brush a 450g loaf tin with a little oil then line with baking parchment.

TWO Mix the flour, almonds, baking powder, sugar and dates. Beat together the mashed banana and oil, then combine it with the flour mixture. Add the soya milk to loosen the mixture, fold in the walnuts and scrape the mixture into the tin. Bake for 1 hr, covering the top if it starts to look too brown. Insert a skewer into the centre

Vegan Mushroom Risotto

Serves - 4

• 20g dried porcini mushrooms or dried wild mushrooms

• 1.2l vegan vegetable stock

• 4 tbsp vegan butter

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 long shallot, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 250g chestnut mushrooms or mixed mushrooms, sliced

• 250g risotto rice

• 125ml vegan white wine

• ½ small bunch parsley or chives, finely chopped

ONE Put the dried mushrooms and stock in a saucepan over a high heat and bring to a boil, then lower the heat and keep warm while you start the risotto. Heat 2 tbsp vegan butter and oil in a wide, shallow pan over a medium heat, and fry the shallot for 6-8 mins or until tender. Stir in the garlic for a minute, then add the chestnut mushrooms. Strain the rehydrated mushrooms from the stock with a slotted spoon and add those, too. Fry for 8-10 mins or until tender and golden. Stir in the rice and coat in the vegan butter and oil. Add the wine and simmer for 2 mins to reduce.

Add the stock a ladleful at a time, stirring regularly until absorbed before adding the next ladle. Keep adding and stirring for 20-25 mins until most of the stock has been absorbed (leave the last bit of stock in the pan as this will hold any grit from the dried mushrooms) and the rice is tender. Remove from the heat, stir the remaining 2 tbsp vegan butter and the herbs into the risotto, then rest, covered, for 5 mins before serving.

It’s Veganuary! With all major supermarkets stocking vegan alternatives now, it’s easier than ever to create delicious vegan dishes.

• 75g coconut oil, plus extra for the tin

• 200g vegan dark chocolate (at least 70%), roughly chopped

• 2 tbsp golden syrup

• 200g vegan ginger nuts

• 100g dried cranberries

• 50g pistachios, toasted and chopped

ONE Lightly oil a 20cm square brownie tin with coconut oil and line the base with baking parchment. Melt the chocolate with the coconut oil and golden syrup in the microwave in 30-second bursts until smooth and glossy.

Vegan Tiffin Makes 25 small squares Mobile Hairdresser Covering all your hairdressing needs from the comfort of your own home.

Ashley Ward

Where did it all start for Ashley? Inside the workshop of his late grandad, where he was taught the basics of hard work and perseverance. This was where a young mind was shown the importance of construction and engineering. Ashley found his way as an electrician and inevitably became the business owner and founder of SWAYE Electrical Services Ltd. Ashley followed in his Grandads footsteps, and with the guidance and hands-on attitude of his Grandad, he was able to apply the skills he learnt back then, to his successful and ever-expanding electrical business. Ashley and the team at SWAYE have brought light to Plymouth (literally!) and has been able to build a solid customer base and a considerable number of happy customers in the community.

The early prospects of Ashley’s career began when he was just 6 years old with the help of his Grandad, who was a self-employed electrician and general builder. Whether it was creating electricity with old batteries or knocking down walls and building kitchens from scratch, Ashley was unknowingly, watching his career begin. He watched and he learned.

After excelling in college, Ashley qualified as an electrician at the age of 22 and was continually thrown into the deep-end with multiple large-scale projects. By 23 he was running large solar PV installations throughout Cornwall, taking control of the design, installation and commissioning of the installation.

“The fear of being totally out of my comfort zone and that dread of failure to succeed is something that has helped me progress personally and professionally. There is a solution to every problem, you just have to be focused enough to find it.”

Once he believed he had gained enough experience in the electrical industry, he knew that it was time to

take matters into his own hands and go at it alone. Ashley wanted nothing more than to be free to make his own decisions, to be the master of his own fate. When he was 25, he founded SWAYE Electrical Services Ltd.

After a year of hard work, Ashley’s workload had almost doubled and so it became apparent that he needed to take someone on. Ashley took Steve on, his first employee and registered him with the local college so he could eventually become a qualified electrician. It was a massive step for me to take.

“It wasn’t really part of the plan to grow this quickly, but I took the opportunity it created with both hands and ran with it.”

“I can help customers with the design of their kitchens and bathrooms, the choice of décor and finishes as well as how to create the best space possible with different building fabrics and designs”

Ashley also pounced on the opportunity to take on a commercial unit, which has an office, workshop and storage area. This move allowed Ashley to present his company in a more professional manner, allowing customers to pop in for a coffee and chat through current and future projects.

Ashley explains the merits of moving into their new premises,

“The commercial unit has enabled the team to be more efficient and professional by making it feel like a space where they are happy to work in. We can now order materials ahead of time and set up mock installations to ensure the work will go smoothly once transferred to site. During the pandemic, there wasn’t much to do socially, so I found myself working till midnight every Friday night for the last year. We are so busy, the work needed to be done, so what better way to spend a Friday night!

The SWAYE Electrical mascot

SWAYE have been inundated with new customers and interesting projects. A recent law change in the UK meant that every rented property must have a satisfactory electrical report, similar to gas. The UK suddenly had thousands of landlords that needed our services. The work came flooding in and we couldn’t have handled it if we didn’t have the cloudbased infrastructure organised the year before. With the electrical testing came electrical faults, fuse board changes and re-wires. Ashley has built good relationships with several builder and property investors in Plymouth, Cornwall and the South Hams.

Commercial and Industrial – This can be anything from new business premises, shops and offices. They can help with 3 phase installations, CCTV, security alarms, fire alarms, electrical vehicle charging points and much more.

The team at SWAYE are professional, genuine and honest. They serve their customers with the utmost respect and love to help them with their projects, whether its small remedial works or large construction projects.

‘At the end of the day, all we want to, is to be able look every customer in the eye knowing that we did the best job possible.’ – Ashley

The service they provide is always of the highest quality, but they offer it at an affordable and fair rate. They are flexible and happy to go the extra mile to ensure the job is done properly and the customer is happy.

The reviews for SWAYE Electrical are always positive but above everything else, they pride themselves on being able to fix any problems that come their way and do it to the best of their ability. The construction

industry is an industry where plans change all the time. We pride ourselves in excelling at keeping projects running smoothly, even if it means working out of hours or on weekends. Our experience in the construction industry allows us to see solutions before the problems even arise!

No matter how difficult the proposition is, Ashley and the guys at SWAYE will never say no to a challenge. “What would life be like without challenges? Pretty dull if life always went to plan. Would Hercules be Hercules if he hadn’t had all those battles to win or would he have just turned over in his bed and gone back to sleep?”

In 2019, the Ridgeway Christmas lights were not working and the team at SWAYE got called in to help fix the problem… a day before the formal switch on! The SWAYE team managed to fix the faults and save the Christmas lights that year and the Plympton Chamber were very grateful. Ashley is now a committee member of Plym Chamber and now takes care of the light switch on every year and have adapted the technology so that all of the lights turn on at the same time with a touch of a button on Ashley’s phone.

SWAYE Electrical cover the whole of Devon and Cornwall and are currently doing a renovation project in Wales with Homes Under the Hammer presenter, Martin Roberts himself! Martin was impressed that over ten years ago, Ashley was watching him on TV and that now, he is working directly for him! The project consists of an old, haunted building in the Brecon Beacons which they are converting into a hiking lodge and SWAYE electrical had been recommended as the team for the job.

With the positive hands-on influence of his grandfather, Ashley has been able to provide the city of Plymouth with great service and amazing customer relationships. He hopes to continue his journey with SWAYE and grow the business, without ever forgetting how he got there.

ASHLEY - “Life is a journey and I am definitely here for the ride!”

LOCAL DOG WALKS

January marks ‘Walk Your Dog Month’and what better way to celebrate than discovering some new places to explore with your furry friend this month.

Start at the carpark which is located opposite the Two Bridges Hotel and head through the gate into the Moors. Follow the trodden grass track until you meet the ancient woodland. Turn back the way you came or explore deeper into Dartmoor and head off in any direction you choose.

Start at Dartmeet carpark and head up the river with the water on your left until you meet the Clapper Bridge. Turn left after the Clapper Bridge and head back down to cross the river via the stepping stones. Keep walking with the river on your left until you reach the carpark again.

Park in Dartmouth centre and walk along the waterfront towards the sea. Pass by Warfleet Creek before heading onto the wooded Castle Road until you reach Dartmouth Castle. Explore the Castle, Cove and it’s surrounding trails before heading back through the woodland above Castle Road.

Park in the village hall carpark and walk up past The Ship Inn. You can either walk through the woodland or stick to the road with the estuary to your right. The long circular walk hugs the coast before heading back to the village or you can walk to Cellar Beach and back which takes just over an hour.

This is the deepest river gorge in the South West owned by the National Trust. From the carpark, head into the visitors centre before starting your walk down the gorge. Witness the 30m high waterfall, ancient woodland and wildlife and the dramatic nature of the gorge itself.

Park in Ermington village where you can grab a drink and some food at the local pub before venturing off into the woodland. Ermington Woods become carpeted with gorgeous bluebells in Spring. These woods are part of the 17mile Erme-Plym Trail.

Park in Bellever Forest carpark which has toilet facilities, lots of picnic areas as well as a beautiful river running through it. Head off into the woods from the carpark and follow one of the many routes that you can take marked on the OS map. Stop by the Postbridge Clapper Bridge on your way back too.

Begin at the Wembury Beach carpark and walk up the South West Coast Path passed the church. Admire the stunning coastline whilst heading towards Warren point located at the end of the river Yealm. Walk back the same way or make it a loop by heading up into Wembury village.

WistMAN’s Woods

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