Plympton Magazine June 2023

WIN!

Swim1MonthGym&Membership forMcCaulay’s HealthClub

BIKE WEEK

Swap keys for helmets and enjoy local bike trails

KF KITCHENS

Transform your home with the perfect kitchen

DEVICE REVIVE

Your one-stop shop for technical management, support and repairs

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SPACE

Idea’s for your itty bitty outdoor space

Happy June and welcome to my very issue at OM Plymouth Magazine. Amy introduced me in the previous issue and I’m excited to finally be able to introduce myself to you!

We met with two very inspiring business owners and their wonderful teams this month and brought you two business profiles. Not only that, but we’ve put together some helpful editorials to keep you entertained as you kick back and relax in this beautiful warm sun we’ve been having. Don’t forget your sunscreen!

This month, we met with the incredible Nathan Damarell from KF Kitchens and I swear I almost walked away with a kitchen myself. We also met business owner Stephen Gray and his fantastic team at Device Revive, who tells us more about the unique I.T. management and repair service.

Let’s not forget, Father’s Day is just around the corner, so we’ve come up with some lovely local gifting ideas for that father figure in your life.

I hope you enjoy this months edition

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SPACE

Ideas for your itty bitty outdoor space

Plymouth properties are diverse in style and age as they are in design, especially when it comes to outdoor space. Of course, if you’re based on the outskirts you may find you aren’t in short supply of an outdoor entertainment area, but for those with a narrow balcony, courtyard or anything in between then I’m here to help you make the most of your space and make it into a tranquil aesthetic you deserve this summer.

Scale and PrOPOrtIOn

Firstly, it’s important to note the size of your outdoor space, some spaces can handle certain furniture and accessories, even plant pots. I understand having dreams of an open pizza oven with a luxurious double-seated egg chair, shaded by the grand pergola covered with rose climbing Zéphirine, but this would be far too chaotic for my little oasis. The idea is to be realistic with what could complement the space.

It’s exciting, decorating your petite plot but try to add accessories a little at a time, we don’t want to make the area cluttered. The intention is to create a well-portioned outdoor area, with furniture that compliments the space, this could be egg chairs (I

won’t be jealous, promise), sofa seats or even a bistro set. Ensure it allows room to manoeuvre, nobody wants to stub their baby toe on the metal leg of a chair, ouch!

create a SeatIng area

Creating zones in your outdoor space can help to make the most of what you have and consideration of where to have your seating area is important. Most importantly deciding if you’re placing this area in the sun or the shade. Of course, if you have a balcony for example, there may not be an option but a simple parasol could combat any sun exposure worries. If privacy is a bit of an issue, well-placed shrubs, plants and even artificial hedge trellis or bamboo-style reed fencing for a more natural look, can create some screening and make the area more cosy.

SPace SavIng

Once you’ve planned your garden arrangement, choosing space-saving designs will be your best friend. If you enjoy entertaining, outdoor dining (let’s face it, nothing beats starting your day with breakfast in the sun), or just a relaxing lounge area, there’re some great compact furniture picks out there.

● Foldable furniture is fantastic as you can easily tuck it away in your garden or even bring it indoors when you’re not using it.

● Tall garden furniture is an ideal option for narrow gardens or balconies as it doesn’t command much floor space.

● Cubed furniture is the ultimate space-saver hero as it can neatly interlock and be tucked away neatly.

addIng dePtH

Designing our smaller outdoor space requires us to get in touch with our inner Derren Brown, we must create the illusion of additional room. A clever and easy way is to simply draw the eye up and around the space, why not try and create a walled or vertical garden with pallets, and free up that precious floorspace or get yourself some lovely outdoor lighting and string them along overhead or on your fence. If you’re working with a balcony or courtyard garden and you’re wanting some additional depth of colour, an easy and hasslefree option would be to lay down some good quality artificial grass. l arry Speare offers artificial grass which is sold at a competitive price and is of a really high standard. Of course, outdoor rugs are a great alternative and can create a lovely boho vibe to any outdoor space.

Creating levels is a fantastic way to separate areas and create zones which I previously mentioned. Decking is great for uneven terrain as you can float the decking over it - an inexpensive alternative can be wooden pallets.

tHInk BIg

Of course, we may all be manifesting that bigger plot with a swimming pool and a tennis court, but until there, let’s talk plants and pots. The natural thought process would be, a small garden, small pots and plants, right? Nope. In fact, it can make your space look quite fussy and let’s not even talk about how high maintenance it would be, not to mention all that extra back bending! The only thing your back should be doing is laying out in your garden with a cool glass of something delicious!

Choosing a few statement items will have much more of an impact in a smaller space, and remember, draw the eye up and around the space. Place hanging baskets or ornaments on surrounding fences, placement on pedestals and plant stands will have a great impact.

cOlOur

We all know the importance of colour and the roles they play paying tribute to anything from your clothes to your home, but this is especially powerful when it comes to visually enhancing your garden.

Darker tones can make your space feel enclosed and small, which is the exact opposite of what we’re trying to achieve. Opting for light, cool coloured tones

whether that’s through the selected plants or furniture and materials, it’ll help to open up the space. Don’t doubt those neutral colours either, they’re anything but boring. Paired with the perfect potted plant or coupled with a cosy cushion, it can make your space feel refreshed. The same goes for your fence too, banish harsh boundaries and choose a colour that blends in with your garden.

reflectIOn

What better way to double the size of your garden, than placing a large mirror against your wall – I recommend useing acrylic mirrors rather than glass for health and safety. Ensure to meticulously place the mirror as nobody wants to tuck it into their evening meal with the site of the wheelie bins reflected at every angle. Remember, we’re channelling our Illusion skills here, so be sure to hide the mirror’s edges with either close-knit hedge trellises or climber plants. For continuality, perhaps cover the rest of the wall with it too.

Of course, I fully appreciate you won’t have gotten to the end of this piece and are now running out the door and completely redesigning your garden, but perhaps it’s given you some inspiration to get creative and start to make small changes to your outdoor oasis.

The Low Maintenance Garden

Transform your garden with arti cial grass and rot-proof composite decking

Banish

From

From

Time to cut down on your gardening chores.

With careful choice of a few clever products it is possible to spend less time working in your garden and more time relaxing in it. Arti cial grass means no mowing, no mud and gives you the perfect lawn to use all year round. As well as looking incredibly realistic, it is pet and child friendly.

Why not install the latest generation wood-free composite decking to create the perfect area for relaxing and socialising. It is anti-slip, rot proof, maintenance free and comes with a 25 yr guarantee. From a vintage weathered look to chic modern golden oak, the decking comes in a range of nishes to complement your garden.

from what started as a gap year from university, to a weekend job, to now owning one of the most successful and well-known kitchen showrooms in Plymouth, Of course, like most fairytale stories, nathan had big dreams. With his bags packed, ready to leave for that dream banking job in london, he felt like something was missing, that dream job was no longer resonating. unbeknown to nathan at the time, making that decision to put down his bags and take a year out would completely push him in the opposite direction of economics and Politics and introduce him to the world of kitchen design.

It was 1995, and nathan was at the second stage of interviews for a job in a large bank in london, the career path was set. Well, so he thought. When nathan’s housemate returned from his gap year in Jamaica, the realisation hit them both, maybe banking wasn’t the desired choice.

Before taking the leap into the unknown, Nathan was working a weekend job at a local kitchen showroom, The Kitchen Factory. When deciding to take a break from his studies, he was then offered a full-time job. A year later at just 22 years old, Nathan was the one who cut the ribbon for the new larger showroom in Faraday Mill Business Park.Over the years, Nathan became a jack of all trades; designing and ordering kitchens, organising installations and managing the sales team. Installing 80 kitchens a month, the company was flying, those 80-hour weeks didn’t phase Nathan, he still had time to play golf so life was good. But everything was about to change.

Over the years, Nathan became a jack of all trades; designing and ordering kitchens, organising installations and managing the sales team. Installing 80 kitchens a month, the company was flying, those 80-hour weeks didn’t phase him, he still had time to play golf so life was good. But everything was about to change.

The hard work, dedication and passion that Nathan showed never went unnoticed, catching the attention of a large Bolton-based supplier who offered to support him if he went on to open his own showroom. In 2008,

The Kitchen Factory closed its cupboard doors and left a gap in the market.

Nathan took this opportunity to create a business plan and headed up to Bolton armed with knowledge, experience and a whole lot of passion!

Taking a leap of faith, Nathan, his wife Derinda and Simon came together and formed kf kitchens. The team was Kevin, Gary and Pete (now retired) who were the installers, James the electrician and Paul dealt with the plumbing. Jason handled all the flooring and Shaun took care of the decorating. Fifteen years later, KF Kitchens still have the same team which speaks volumes about the business.

“I’m not trying to sell you a kitchen. I’m going to help you buy one.”

From the start of KF Kitchens in 2008, Nathan’s motto was, “I’m not trying to sell you a kitchen. I’m going to help you buy one.” Unfortunately, over the years, the industry has been heavily dominated by businesses that don’t have the experience to design, organise and fit kitchens. You may be shocked to learn that this multi-billion pound industry has no regulations currently in place, there’s no supervision or governing body to say whether these businesses are conforming to standards. It’s a scary thought if, as a consumer, we were to buy a kitchen for tens of thousands of pounds only to realise there is no standardisation to protect us.

nathan has thirty years of experience within the kitchen industry and he prides himself on providing the customer the best advice based on his experience and knowledge, not what’s the easiest, not what’s best for the company but what he would do if the project was his. kitchen design is subjective, we all live differently, we all have different needs, and there’s no right or wrong way of designing your kitchen. kf kitchens design the kitchen that suits you and your needs, adding their creativity and advice through the process.

“Transparency, integrating & depth of Knowledge and experience.”

When helping customers, KF Kitchens’s three core values are; transparency, integrity & depth of knowledge and experience. Having an appointment-only service ensures Nathan and the team can make this happen as early as possible for the customer. Firstly, a tour

Nathan Damarell - Co owner of KF Kitchens

is given of the showroom where the kitchen designs, appliances and suppliers are explained, and options are given. Nathan then provides his award-winning presentation where he goes through in detail the cost of the project, not just the kitchen units, and appliances, but the plumbing, plastering and flooring, giving full transparency to the customer of the cost. The purpose of this 30-minute appointment is that the customer knows everything to make that decision if it’s the right product for them, as early as possible.

“Are we doing the right thing for us? Are we doing the right thing for the environment?”

Spending that bit extra for something that you will have for 15-20 years is far more sustainable and ethical for you, your home and your wallet. The cheaper option is not always right. Unfortunately, we are faced with a “Throwaway” culture and customers are being guided to ‘buy this one because it’s cheaper’ with no consideration of the environmental impact. Priding themselves on being Kitchen Designers rather than Kitchen Sales Advisors, KF Kitchens are not afraid to have real conversations and emphasize it’s an infrastructure purchase, you’re buying something that you are going to live with for a long time. They then explain to customers that what KF Kitchens offer is due diligence, in which they will dedicate the time to make these decisions, proportionate to the amount of money they’re going to spend on it, and is also proportionate to the length of time you’re going to live with it. But this all comes with experience, a resource generally lacking in both Plymouth and the industry on the whole.

Building their reputation on British Made Kitchens, in 2019 Nathan and Derinda wanted to expand and began the process of introducing the modern aesthetics of German brands like Nolte. What they found was that neither British nor German products were any better or worse but that they each gave different opportunities. British kitchens can offer

flexibility with more bespoke designs but the breadth of products that was available to them to design with their Nolte brand was far greater than they had with British products.

an exciting new addition to the kf kitchens showroom is nolte neo which is the exclusive end of the nolte range. the creative design of the dramatic simplicity is using higher work surfaces to hide the hob, and push to open cabinets to conceal appliances. the aim is that when entering the kitchen, you are greeted with the view of the beautiful unique charred Oak furniture warmly lit by integrated lighting.

So what’s next for Nathan, Derinda and the team? Nathan expressed that he would love to have the continued organic growth of the business but he enjoys the fluidity of the unknown. Five years ago he never thought they’d stock and sell German products but he hopes they will continue doing what they’re doing; changing the way people use their kitchens and making people’s lives better through design. A creative avenue he would like to explore is outdoor living and outdoor kitchens and see where that could lead. But overall, what Nathan would really like to see is for the industry to become more professional, with an element of regulation, ensuring that people are being looked after. Continuing his work with the KBSA (The Kitchen Bathroom Specialists Association) he’d like the ethos in the industry to be this: to question if what they’re doing is the right thing and if they can make a difference.

It is no surprise that nathan and the team fit 80 kitchens a year and have hundreds of thank-you cards in the showroom. from the hour I spent with nathan I could feel his passion and genuine love for the work he does and care for his customers, it’s a truly inspiring business. Be sure to book an appointment with kf kitchens and let nathan and the team turn your dreams into reality.

Nolte Neo Kitchen

Ask

With over 28 years hearing, balance & tinnitus testing experience & having worked in the NHS as well as for leading hearing aid manufacturers, Kevin’s international background is uniquely placed to o er you the very best hearing care advice available.

Kevin provides expert, relaxed consultations, friendly attentive care and bespoke professional advice.

Kevin Carlyon RHAD, MSHAA

All hearing aid brands available

BIKE WEEK

From 5th - 11th June it’s time to celebrate the 100th annual Bike Week, marking a century of dedicating this week to help yourself, the community and the planet

What did we do before cars, motorbikes and buses? ride horses. no, no, after that? Walk. Yes, but something a little faster? Oh, that thing with peddles?? Yes, that! You mean a bike? Yes, that’s it! a bike! the second week of June brings us Bike Week with the sole focus to encourage as many people as possible to ditch their automobiles, hop on the two-wheeler and explore their community.

Notably, we have become more aware of our health in recent years. We’ve always known that having good health is of course, good for us but perhaps it’s not always at the forefront of our minds. Now more than ever, there’s been a big shift, and we are taking more action to improve what we eat, what we feed our minds and spending time exercising. This week is another opportunity to continue the cycle (pardon the pun), dust off that helmet and get ready for an adventure.

Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, here are some things you can do for Bike Week;

Bike to Work

A great opportunity to clock in those miles, even if you are commuting, cycling to the train station is a perfect way to get involved where you can.

family day Out

A fun way to spend quality time with the family is a good old bike ride. Why not make a packed lunch, find a good location and lay out a blanket and enjoy a nice picnic. Perhaps to bring back some nostalgia, go blackberry picking and make a delicious pie when you get home.

Bike challenge

Cycling UK, a charitable membership organisation that supports and promotes bicycle use, have set up a series of challenges as part of Bike Week 100 with options for new, returning and experienced riders. These can be found on their website. cyclinguk.org

Bike ride

Why not organise a bike ride with your friends and other families, we have so many beautiful bike trails to choose from and it’s a great way to get other people involved too.

Of course, these are just some ideas to get you started, but there are so many other ways to get involved and swap your car keys for a bike helmet.

Now, let’s let talk about the health benefits.

It’s no secret that opting for the modern-day velocipede method of travel, not only tones muscles such as your calves, thighs and glutes just by pedalling but it’s an easy, fun and adventurous way of exercise. The low-impact nature of cycling causes less strain and injuries and you can choose the intensity of the ride. Proven to increase cardiovascular fitness, aids weight loss, lower the risk of other diseases such as type 2 diabetes and breast and bowel cancer, and reduces anxiety and depression, the list really does go on.

LOCAL BIKE TRAILS

Lucky for us, we are in the perfect location for ample bike trails and scenic routes to sink our tyres into. Here are just a few to get you started...

cann WOOdS

Plympton

Also known as Plym Forest, Cann Woods is a stunning example of newly planted trees and broad-levelled woodland. Cycling is a great way to explore the wonders of the woodland and is accessible from the City via the Plymbridge Woods cycle path. There are many trails to choose from, so no matter your rider level, they’ll be something for everyone.

the Victorian Country house and gardens and discover the history of the two sides of Victorian Life?

The 21-mile route from Plymouth to Tavistock is a fantastic option for all ages and fitness levels with the new off-road cycle route. The trail takes you through the wooded river valleys, across the open moorland and up close to the wildlife including Dartmoor ponies.

The trail includes Gem Bridge which has replaced the older viaduct, and Grenofen Tunnels. Routes also include the Plym Valley Trail, which is a safe and easy trail to cycle and walk for all the family.

PlYMBrIdge

Plymouth

Starting at Laira Bridge and finishing at Clearbrook provides safe, traffic-free cycling. The 18-mile round trip gentle route is suitable for all ages and takes you through wooded valleys that open up into Dartmoor National Park or continue on the trails through the woods where you could enjoy a picnic by the river.

WaterfrOnt

Plymouth

One of the most popular recreational routes in the country is the Camel Trail. The 18-mile trail is mainly traffic free, surfaced and pretty much level, and provides front-row bike seats to the beautiful cornish countryside between Wenfordbridge, Bodmin, Wadebridge and Padstow.

lanHYdrOck

Bodmin

A purpose-built, off-road cycle trail that offers 10 kilometres of track makes it the perfect escape for the whole family. Offering easy, moderate and challenging rides, there’s a track for every skill level. After trying out the Saw Pit, Walters Trail or the gentler Lodge Trail why not visit

Starting from Sutton Harbour and the Barbican, you can take a nice easy route to the Plymouth Hoe then onto Millbay and Stonehouse and finish at The Royal William Yard with options to refuel at high-quality cafes and restaurants.

Enjoy stunning views over the sound and out to Mountbatten, Drake’s Island and Mount Edgecumbe.

rIverSIde

Saltram

Cycle along the Plym estuary and through the rolling hills of Saltram. Mostly flat with one steep hill, the ride is designed for all ages. Passing ancient oak trees and plenty of history to soak up on your adventure. Fancy something a little further? You can extend your ride up to Plymbridge Woods.

Of course, these are just some ideas to get you started, but there are many other ways to get involved and swap your keys for a helmet. no bike? no problem.

You may have seen the fantastic new instalment in and around Plymouth recently, the Beryl Bikes. Their very simple Tap and Roll service offers Pay As You Ride or Minute Bundles – which is the best value if you’re going for a bike ride. With a large front basket, lights and even an electric motor to help you tackle those pesky hills, it really is a great option if you haven’t yet invested in your own bike. Just download their free app on your phone and you can start your adventure today.

drake’S traIl Bickleigh

caMel traIl Padstow

WOOdS

cYcle

What’s On South Devon

The many deaThs of michael malloy

Melville Building, royal William Yard -4th May - 30th June

A 1930s inspired immersive musical comedy invites you into our very own speakeasy, The Blind Pig, for a show like no other. Performances takes place

Thursday to Sunday at 7pm, and a matinee on Saturdays at 2:30pm.

Trailblazer WalK

Mountbatten to royal William Yard - thursday 15th June

Join the SWCPA team as we walk the 630-mile South West Coast Path. Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the South West Coast Path Association and join them on their final stretch (7.5 miles) from Mountbatten to Royal William Yard.

Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

shreK The musical

the theatre royal, Plymouth 21st - 29th July

Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks film, the Broadway and West End hit Shrek the Musical is a fun-filled and hilarious musical comedy with a cast of vibrant characters and a ‘shrektackular’ score.

universiTy of plymouTh open day

the university of Plymouth

Wednesday 21st June

Named one of the most affordable places to be a student and one of the most underrated places on Earth!

Tour our campus and world-class facilities - book your Open Day and see why so many students choose Plymouth.

rehabiliTaTion TriaThalon

the Hoe, Plymouth thursday 22nd June

The Rehabilitation Triathlon 2023, 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.

sir rod sTeWarT summer shoW

Home Park Stadium, Plymouth Saturday 24th June

Rod’s 2023 shows are set to be filled with show stopping classics and fan favourites from across his impressive career.

abba TribuTe nighT

crowne Plaza, Plymouth

Saturday 24th June

Take a Chance on Us is a Live ABBA Tribute comprised of some of the finest musicians and performers the UK has to offer. Ticket price includes; two course meal, live entertainment, DJ and much more!!

armed forces day

the Hoe, Plymouth Saturday 24th June

Armed Forces Day is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to come along and show their support for the Armed Forces community aswell as activities for all the family to enjoy and get involved in.

macrame WorKshop

the Bedford Hotel, tavistock

Sunday 25th June

If you fancy the idea of trying a new craft, with a little friendly tuition, the talented Jess from ShedMade would love to introduce you to the world of macrame with this relaxed afternoon craft workshop.

All materials are provided and an afternoon tea.

ARMED FORCS DAY, THE HOE

FATHER’S dAY gIFTS

It can sometimes feel challenging to find a meaningful gift that somehow shows your love and gratitude but do not worry, I’m here to help get you ready for the big day!

Sunday 18th June 2023

finding the right father’s day gift can be tricky at times, especially when they have everything they ‘need’, including a lifetime supply of socks from previous years’ gifts. Bless our dads, ever the practical types aren’t they? Well, I’m here to help you knock his socks off this year with some memorable gifts.

HAMPERS

Brown paper packages tied up with string, full of all of his favourite things!

It is often useful to stick to a theme when deciding what to put in a hamper. Whether that’s cinema night treats, delicatessen nibbles, home spa kit or even whisky related. To begin making your hamper from scratch, you will need a box or basket big enough to fit everything in, some tissue paper or any kind of filling you have around the house and some string for the finishing touch!

LOCAL BEER

In recent years, we are noticeably ditching the big chain shops and opted to support our local businesses

for our shopping needs. So why not look to local breweries such as Summerskills Brewery who, not only brew their ales here in Plymouth but can also give the bottles a personalised label, especially for Father’s Day, making it the perfect gift. Nothing says I love you more than the satisfying fizz of a freshly cracked bottle.

SWEET TREATS

Baking a batch of gooey brownies or triple chocolate cookies is a great way to show your dad some love this Father’s Day. If baking isn’t your thing, then why not try loco about cocoa. They handmake all of their chocolates here in Plymouth! Offering a variety of chocolate from White, Milk, Dark and Vegan, all made with the finest ingredients. Carefully packaged in a beautiful gift boxe, makes them a great Father’s Day gift. And we all know the way to a man’s heart.

FLOWERS

It may seem slightly unorthodox, but men like flowers too! Ok, they may not be a huge fan of pastel pinks, lavender or minty greens, but a general rule of thumb, opt for the “manly” bunch. Rich, bold colours and a solid, strong structure is a good way to go and perhaps a flower with more of a spicy scent rather than sweet. Get yourself down to a local florist who will help you find the perfect bunch.

Father’s Day can be an exceptionally difficult time for those who’ve lost their beloved Dad or Fathers who have lost their children. Take this time to sit with those beautiful memories, perhaps visit a favourite spot of theirs and reminisce.

from Sweet Shop to tech Support, business owner Stephen gray has an inspiring fluidity to his progression. Starting out like most entrepreneurs, Stephen was tired of working for companies that didn’t share the same core values and doing right by the customer. forming a sweet shop delivery service in 2022 laid the foundations to lean into something Stephen was really passionate about and created an I.t. management and repair service.

It’s hard to believe that at only 24 years old, Stephen has already had a very successful business and is now within the first 12 months of his new venture, device revive. So how did he go from Sweets to tech, I hear you wonder.

With the success of the sweet shop business, Stephen found himself working seven days a week taking and packing orders as well as making deliveries well into the night. Feeling inspired for a change of direction with the business it was time to make the shift from Slushie Machines to I.T. equipment.

Having an I.T. background from apprenticeships, it was a no-brainer for Stephen which route to go down. Opening its doors in August 2022, with just Stephen and a colleague repairing devices, but within 7 months the team rapidly expanded to five and they’re now looking at continuing to grow the team to help with demand. Device Revive covers everything I.T. related, from PC support and repairs to CCTV and installations, No matter the device, they will support it.

Stephen wanted to bring something to the area that puts its main focus on helping residential customers with any I.t. enquiries which makes up 90% of their client base. for this reason, device revive has an all-in-one service so that customers can pay a small monthly fee for the company to handle all of the I.t. like phone lines, internet, repairs etc. they also have a 24-hour phone line which goes straight through to a technician in case of any emergencies.

Whilst they are based in Plympton, they are not

capping themselves to just the Plymouth and South West area. Device Revive will travel and assist anywhere within a 2-hour radius but they’re not stopping there, within the next 12 months, their goal is to open another premise in Lancashire to be able to cover more of the UK.

Within the 7 months of the business being open, they have secured themselves a fantastic contract with a customer in Lydford, managing and installing the CCTV, broadband, phone line and mobile phone. Device Revive is the one-stop shop that handles all of those technical issues, rather than calling up various providers for each device, each time having to wait in a long hold queue. Having Device Revive on your side, all the customer would need to do is make that one call and they take care of the rest.

Since introducing CCTV installations to their repertoire, they have seen a rise in demand. The addition of CCTV installation to their list of services was inspired by a customer who was having trouble finding reasonable quotations. Device Revive contacted one of their suppliers in the UK who, luck had it, sells CCTV systems and asked for a quote. Including the parts, labour and installation, Device Revive charged the customer half of what he was being quoted elsewhere.

“You’ve paid for the hour, we’re there for the hour.”

As a business, they are aware the prices they are charging are a lot lower compared to other similar businesses on the market at the moment, for installations and repairs. Their call-out fees start from £35 (depending on location) and their hourly rate after that is £17.50, they want their services to be affordable, especially as their main client base is residential customers. Whilst on the call out, the customer will have that technician for an hour and they will not charge any extra to help with other I.T. issues, as opposed to other similar companies, where they will charge separate fees for separate problems.

When a customer comes to Device Revive with a budget for a new laptop, for example, they will look into their suppliers to see if there is anything within that

amount. If not, they will contact one of their many suppliers that also supplies the likes of Currys and other major retailers. If all is well and the customer is happy, Device Revive will go and collect the product, transfer the warranty into the customer’s name and will do a data transfer to ensure the setup is exactly how the customer wants it. After that, they will even re-deliver the device back to the customer’s desired address. This business takes five-star customer service to a whole new level.

When placing a callout, customers can expect help within one to two working hours depending on their location and they will try their best to rectify the issues on-site at the callout location address. If the device is needing some extra t.l.c. they will take the item back to their premises to fix the issue and redeliver once repaired. On average, clients can expect the item to be returned in 3-7 working days depending on the delivery of parts.

What makes Device Revive stand out from the rest is they provide a bespoke quote for each customer. For example, if there is a request for CCTV installation, they will come to the property and assess how many are required and how many the customer would like, how long they’d like the recordings to be available for and they will provide full training on how to use the system and through the app which is all included within the price.

Amongst all of the above of what they already offer, they haven’t forgotten where they started; repairs. The business offers any type of device repair service

with their stateof-the-art lasering equipment and polishing machines in the workshop. Customers are more than welcome to pop down to their office and meet with the incredibly friendly team and enjoy a nice coffee, or Device Revive can arrange to collect and redeliver once it’s been repaired.

Now let’s give it up for the teddy of the hour, the Device Revive mascot. With custom-made hoodies, you will find them pop up on social media to mark which areas where the technicians have been. So far, the team is Devon, Somerset, Cornwall and Cambridge and hopefully, they’ll welcome Lancashire to the teddy tribe soon.

after meeting the young entrepreneur and the team, it’s very clear that they really enjoy the work they do and have a genuine care and a desire to help people. the core values of device revive is to make technical support and help accessible for their customers and will always recommend the best options for their clients even if that option is not with them.

keep an eye out for their call-out van on the roads and you’ll be seeing their second one on the road in the next few weeks.

The team from left to right; Kindri, Tori, Drew and James

RECIPE IDEAS cheesy

easy cheesey recipes to celebrate national cheese day on June 4th ... not that we needed more reasons to eat it

Beer Mac ‘N’ Cheese

(Makes 4)

Ingredients

• 50g butter

• 2 garlic cloves, grated

• 50g spinach

• 500ml milk

• 250ml pale ale

• 200g macaroni

• 100g cheddar, grated

• 200g mozzarella, grated

ONE Heat the grill to its highest setting. In a flameproof casserole dish or metal frying pan, melt the butter and fry the garlic for 2 mins. Add the spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2 mins. Pour in the milk and beer and bring to a gentle bubble. Add the macaroni and stir intermittently for around 20 mins until the pasta is cooked and covered in sauce.

TWO Stir in the cheddar and half the mozzarella. When it starts to melt, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top and put it in the oven for around 7-10 mins or until browned on top and sensational underneath.

Classic Cheese Scones

(Serves 5-6)

Ingredients

• 225g self-raising flour, plus extra for dusting

• pinch of salt

• pinch of cayenne pepper

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 55g chilled butter, cut into cubes

• 120g mature cheddar, grated

• 90-100ml milk, plus 1 tbsp for glazing

ONE Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6 with a large baking tray inside. Sift the flour, salt, cayenne pepper and baking powder into a bowl, then sift again to make sure the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

TWO Add the butter to the bowl and combine with your fingertips to make breadcrumbs. Sprinkle 100g of the cheese into the breadcrumb mixture and rub together until evenly distributed. Try not to mix too much as the heat from your hands may start to melt the butter.

THREE Make a well in the centre of the mixture and pour in enough milk to give a fairly soft but firm dough. Do not pour in all the milk at once as you may not need it all to get the right consistency.

FOUR Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough to approximately 2cm thick. Cut out the scones with a medium (about 8cm) cutter, then put on a sheet of baking parchment, glaze with a little milk and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Slide onto the hot oven tray.

FIVE Bake in the oven for 15-20 mins or until golden brown and cooked through.

Image by BBC Good Food

Caramelised Onion Sausage

Rolls Makes - 8

• 6 pork sausages

• 2 tbsp caramelised onion chutney

• 1 tsp wholegrain mustard

• 1 tbsp chopped thyme

• 320g sheet puff pastry

• 1 beaten egg

• ½ tbsp poppy seeds

ONE Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Squeeze the meat from the sausages into a bowl and mix with the chutney, mustard and thyme. Unravel the pastry and roll out until one side measures 43cm.

TWO Arrange sausagemeat down the centre of the pastry. Use the egg to brush along the bottom of the pastry. Bring the pastry around the meat, and seal the edges with a fork, then cut into eight. Brush with a little more egg and sprinkle with the poppy seeds. Transfer to a lined baking sheet and cook for 25 mins or until golden.

RECIPE IDEAS Picnic

to celebrate Picnic week on Sunday 18th to friday 26th June, we’ve put together some easy al fresco ideas for you and the family

Caprese Sandwich

Makes - 4

4 slices of focaccia or 8 slices of bread

• 2 tbsp basil pesto

• 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil

• handful of rocket

• 2 x 125g balls of mozzarella, sliced

• 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced

• small handful of basil leaves

• 1⁄2 small red onion, sliced (optional)

• 2 tsp thick balsamic vinegar

If using focaccia, cut the slices across the middle so you have a total of eight slices. Spread 1/4 tbsp pesto over four of the focaccia or bread slices, and drizzle each of the remaining four slices with 1/2 tsp olive oil.

Divide the rocket, mozzarella, tomatoes, basil leaves and red onion slices over the pesto-topped focaccia or bread. Drizzle 1/4 tsp balsamic vinegar over each of the remaining slices. Sandwich the slices together, wrap up for a picnic or serve straightaway. Best eaten on the day they’re made.