Plympton Magazine October 2024

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WITCHY WONDERS

Find your inner Witch with these easy at-home remedies

PUMPKINS GALORE

We’ve haunted-down some local Pumpkin Patches to find the spookiest pumpkins in town A£50voucher for News Cafe Plymouth

SLOW DOWN

Slow-cooker season is here and so are some mouth watering receipes to sink your teeth into

Kitchen Transformations

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CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net

DESIGN EDITOR

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

EDITORIAL

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 IF

Welcome... October

In my honest opinion, the best season is finally here which means it’s now finally acceptable to drape our homes in cobwebs, ghouls and pumpkins. Speaking of, I’ve haunted down some of the top patches to find those perfect pumpkins to sculpt.

To truly abracadabra you into the festive spirit, I’ve got some spells to bring out your inner witch with some easy at-home incantations (remedies) with the help of dõTERRA essential oils. And in true form, there’re some deadly delectable slow cooker recipes to sink your teeth into.

Whilst October is a month of Halloween and autumnal leaves, it’s also the month of Breast Cancer Awareness. We hear from Mary Jones about her experience with breast cancer and the importance of booking your screening.

Local Kitchen Designers, KF Kitchens, has been shortlisted for Kitchen Designer of the Year by KBSA Designer Awards 2024. I’m sure we can all agree, they’ve got our vote!

From myself and the team, Happy Halloween O

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 publication.

WITCHY WONDERS

October stirs something deep within us— the crisp air, the falling leaves, the golden light of the season. As the veil thins and Halloween draws near, it feels like the perfect time to indulge in some witchy, nature-inspired remedies that will not only enchant your space but also work wonders for your skin and hair. Whether you’re a seasoned potion-maker or a curious beginner, these simple, natural remedies will have you casting spells for self-care and a serene home, with ingredients already in your pantry and help from dóTERRA essential oils.

So grab your cauldron (or mixing bowl), and let’s stir up some magic!

The Full Moon Glow: Pumpkin & Honey Face Mask

Nothing says October like pumpkin, and this sacred squash isn’t just for carving. Pumpkins are packed with vitamins A and C, which brighten and nourish the skin, while honey, known for its antimicrobial properties, acts as a natural humectant, keeping your face hydrated and glowing like a full harvest moon.

You’ll need:

• 2 tbsp pumpkin puree (fresh or tinned, just make sure it’s unsweetened!)

• 1 tbsp raw honey

• A dash of cinnamon (optional for a warming boost, but leave it out if you have sensitive skin)

The Spell:

Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl. Apply to your face, focusing on areas that need extra love. While you let the mask work its magic (10-15 minutes), visualize your skin soaking in the energy of the full moon. Rinse with warm water, and say, “By pumpkin’s light, my skin shines bright.”

Witch’s Protection Mist: Lavender & Sage Cleansing Spray

Every good witch knows the power of cleansing her space. Sage, known for its ability to clear negative energy, pairs beautifully with lavender to calm and soothe the spirit. This spray will not only freshen up your home, but it can also banish any bad vibes hanging around—perfect for a peaceful October evening.

You’ll need:

• 1 cup distilled water

• 1 tbsp witch hazel (to help the oils blend)

• 10 drops lavender dóTERRA essential oil

• 5 drops sage dóTERRA essential oil (or dried sage if you prefer the herbier route)

• A small spray bottle

The Spell:

Combine the distilled water and witch hazel in the spray bottle. Add the essential oils (or a sprig of dried sage if using that instead), shake well, and you’re ready to go! Walk through your space, misting lightly in corners, around windows, and at doorways. As you spray, chant: “With lavender and sage, I cleanse this place, bringing peace, love, and grace.”

Black Cat-Approved: Coconut Oil Hair Potion

Dry, brittle hair doesn’t stand a chance against this witchy hair treatment. Coconut oil, the all-purpose elixir, deeply nourishes while soothing the scalp. Add in a few drops of rosemary oil, believed to strengthen hair and encourage growth, and you’ve got yourself a concoction worthy of a black cat’s approval.

You’ll need:

• 2 tbsp coconut oil (melted if solid)

• 5 drops rosemary dóTERRA essential oil

Easy At-Home Beauty & House Remedies Using Natural Ingredients

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional for a bit of scalp detox magic)

The Spell:

Warm the coconut oil and mix in the rosemary oil. Massage the potion into your scalp and work it through the ends of your hair. Leave on for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if you’re feeling extra witchy. As you massage it in, chant: “Roots deep and strong, hair grow soft and long.” Rinse out with shampoo, and behold your silky, enchanted locks.

Protection from the Season’s Chill: Rosehip

Oil Body Balm

October winds can be cruel, leaving your skin feeling dry and wind-chapped. Rosehip oil is a magical ingredient, filled with fatty acids and vitamins that heal and hydrate. This DIY balm not only nourishes the skin but also wraps you in a subtle, protective barrier.

You’ll need:

• 2 tbsp shea butter

• 1 tbsp coconut oil

• 1 tsp rosehip oil from dóTERRA

• 5 drops frankincense dóTERRA essential oil (for an extra mystical touch)

The Spell:

Melt the shea butter and coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave-safe dish. Once liquefied, remove from heat and stir in rosehip oil and frankincense. Let the mixture cool and solidify. Once ready, apply to dry areas, especially elbows, knees, and hands, while whispering, “By rose and resin, let the cold not burn— may warmth and softness return.”

Hearth and Home Charm: Cinnamon & Orange Simmer Pot

Autumn is the season to cozy up, and nothing makes a home feel warmer than the comforting scent of cinnamon and oranges. This spell isn’t just about making your house smell delicious—both cinnamon

and orange are known in folk magic for attracting abundance and protection. This fragrant charm will invite all the right energies into your home.

You’ll need:

• 1 orange, sliced

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 4 cloves

• A sprig of rosemary or a few bay leaves (for added protection)

• A pot of water

The Spell:

Fill a small pot with water and place it on the stove over low heat. Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and rosemary. As the water simmers, it will release a warm, welcoming scent. While it bubbles away, say: “Cinnamon for wealth, orange for joy, rosemary protect, let good luck deploy.” Let the potion simmer as long as you like, adding water as needed.

Moonstone Magic: Crystal-Infused Face Mist

Harness the power of the moon and the magic of crystals with this calming face mist. Rose water hydrates and soothes, while a charged moonstone (or any other crystal you love) adds a mystical touch to your daily beauty ritual. Perfect for an October full of transformation.

You’ll need:

• ½ cup rose water

• 1 tbsp witch hazel

• 1 small moonstone or clear quartz

• A small spray bottle

The Spell:

Place your moonstone outside on the night of a full moon to charge it with lunar energy. The next day, drop the moonstone into a spray bottle with the rose water and witch hazel. Shake gently before use and mist your face morning or night while saying, “By the light of the moon, I call forth my glow.”

As the autumn leaves turn and the spirit of the season fills the air, these enchanted remedies will nourish your skin, hair, and home, keeping you looking radiant and feeling cozy. After all, self-care is the greatest magic of all, and with the help of nature’s finest ingredients, you’re bound to feel like the most magical version of yourself.

Blessed be, beauties, and may your October be full of light, warmth, and just the right touch of enchantment!

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How KF Kitchens

Ask Kim Bamford what she loves most about her new kitchen, and she reels off a long list which covers just about everything, and that includes never having to upgrade her kitchen ever again: “I wanted a forever kitchen, and now I’ve got one,” she says.

Kim chose Plymouth family business KF Kitchens to design, supply and fit her kitchen after they were recommended to her by two of her friends: “They both had great experiences with KF Kitchens, so I went straight to them, and I’m so happy I did.”

Kim booked an appointment to visit the KF Kitchens showroom at Faraday Mill, where she was given a tour by designer, Nathan Damarell. Nathan outlined the ballpark figure of each element of the kitchen and a rough overall cost, which gave Kim an immediate understanding of what was possible.

“When Nathan visited, he made some great suggestions about how we could best use the space, which we hadn’t thought of. Between us, we decided where things should go, and it was then just a case of choosing the finer details, like the colour. It was a nice, simple process.”

The kitchen is the same size as before and the design retains the previous peninsula style kitchen: “But I’ve got double the storage space now,” said Kim. “And there’s more room to move around as well because the space is being used better. It’s much lighter and brighter than the kitchen I had before. It looks bigger,

even though it’s not.”

The kitchen took around three weeks to fit, and that includes ripping out and replacing the ceiling. All the work was done by KF Kitchens – the electrics, plumbing, plastering, decorating, and fitting: “They were absolutely fantastic workmen, and all very respectful,” said Kim. “They communicate with each other so that everyone’s ready when it’s their turn to come in. It was like clockwork.”

For Kim, investing in her beautiful German kitchen with high-end integrated appliances has given her everything she wanted: “We’re going to be staying here for the foreseeable future, so we wanted a kitchen that was stunning to look at, practical to use, and a lovely quality that would be a kitchen for life. And KF Kitchens have delivered us just that.”

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 or book a consultation in their studio, either by email or phone and make your first steps towards your dream kitchen today!

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

For the whole month of October, we are reminded to make those appointments, have the conversation and help raise money to fight the fight.

The sad reality is that we all know someone who has been affected by breast cancer, since 2020, it has become the most common cancer worldwide. This month is about raising awareness, raising money and reminding women of the importance of those screening appointments.

Breast Cancer UK estimates that around 30% of cases in the UK can be prevented by making lifestyle changes. We all know that living a healthier lifestyle is better for us and when we’ve got good health, we take it for granted. So why not act now, and do what we can when we can? It doesn’t need to be groundbreaking, but making the effort to get 10k steps in a day, go for those lovely swims, and make better food choices. It’s always hard to start something new, but after a while, it becomes habitual. And nobody has ever felt worse from that natural serotonin boost after moving your body.

Breast Cancer UK has a 30-day challenge which you can take part in. Spend the next 30 days during October doing ANY exercise-based challenge. It’s a great way to challenge yourself, build resilience, get fitter and raise money for Breast Cancer!

Having awareness about what we put into our bodies is just as important as what we put on them. Some cosmetics, hair products, cleaning and other everyday products contain chemicals that are linked to breast cancer such as Paraben, Phthalates and Triclosan, so it’s always worth checking the labels and consciously choosing other products.

With breast cancer now affecting every 1 in 7 women and around 400 men a year, it’s time to pay more attention to your breasts and the areas around them. Know your body and look out for changes. There are many symptoms and signs of breast cancer, everyone is different so if something doesn’t look or feel right, get it checked out.

My lovely mum, Mary Jones (below), was only diagnosed with breast cancer last year in 2022. After the original screening was cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19, it was a cervical smear appointment letter that jolted Mary’s memory to rebook that missed mammogram screening. As the last screening appointment was in 2017, it was a very quick turnaround;

“I initially had a letter post mammogram asking me to attend the Primrose unit at Derriford as some calcifications had been spotted. I attended and had an ultrasound where they then performed a stereotactic ultrasound (a strange procedure). This came back as inconclusive so back up for another one. I was told that calcifications are common and probably won’t need treating.”

Unfortunately, after the second round of testing, Mary saw the consultant who confirmed the calcification was malignant and after various tests, Mary received the devastating news that she would need a mastectomy;

“I had a thing called DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ). I had never heard of this and no lumps are felt at this stage as it is still in the nipple ducts but can spread if not detected early enough. I was very shocked at this diagnosis, the only bit of my body I liked was my boobs. After many tears and research about my condition. I then saw the amazing Mr Dixon who is a plastic surgeon. He explained that I was a candidate for a DIEP flap. They give you a tummy tuck and insert part of that tissue to perform an implant. It is an extremely long operation (10 hours).”

There were some complications post-op and necrosis of the wound but with three months of weekly hospital visits and the fantastic Primrose Nurses and Doctors, Mary eventually healed. Sadly, there’s some invasion into Mary’s breast tissue and she has to take immune therapy treatment for five years;

“My cancer was ER+ which means caused by too much oestrogen. Sadly there is a side effect of painful joints, especially knees and hips. But I have arthritis there, so it seems to inflame it. But I am alive and 1 year post-op. I have forgotten the discomfort of the first few months and was lucky not to have radio/chemotherapy.”

Had Mary not had that mammogram, things could have been so much worse and the treatment would have been more extensive and severe.

“SO LADIES AND MEN NEVER FORGET THAT MAMMOGRAM, IT CAN REALLY SAVE YOUR LIFE. I am extremely grateful to the doctors and nurses who looked after me and am blessed we have an NHS who still do this screening.”

winter tidy up

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY AT HOWARD & OVER

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Why Howard & Over?

If you would like to find out more, please speak to our specialist residential property solicitors at Howard & Over and let us help you unlock the door to your future.

Tel: 01752 556606

If you are looking for a trusted local solicitor to help you purchase, sell, or re-mortgage a property in or around the Plymouth and Ivybridge areas, then Howard & Over are the firm for you. We will provide you with your very own dedicated solicitor to guide you through the whole process from start to finish, delivering you jargon-free expert legal advice. At Howard & Over, we understand that your property is more than just a place to live—it’s a significant investment in your future. from normal people

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October 2024

What’s On South Devon

Buckland Abbey, Yelverton 19th October - 5th November

Baby Dragons have hatched and are taking over Buckland Abbey. Come and help track them down and discover some dragon secrets along the way. You can also cosy up with an autumnal read in the Book Nook. Storytelling will take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays throughout the trail.

HArvesT weekenD

Buckland Abbey, Yelverton 26th - 27th October

Join us to celebrate a bountiful harvest at Buckland Abbey. The Garden team have been working hard and grown squashes and pumpkins, showing off their hard work as part of a beautiful autumnal display in the Great Barn. Enjoy classic family games and enjoy seasonal treats in the café and delicious cider & mead tastings in the shop.

The Mansion, Saltash Friday 11th October

A unique trio of multiinstrumentalists perform folk songs and tunes from across the world.

okToberFesT PlymouTH

Central Park, Plymouth 27th - 28th October

This October experience a traditional Oktoberfest as Plymouth is transformed for one weekend into a traditional Bavarian bash! Bring on the bier - 30,000 litres to be precise! Top up your stein and step inside the our huge Bier tent and prepare to be entertained Bavarian style!

PlymouTH ColleCTors Toy & TrAin FAir

Scott Business Park, Plymouth Sunday 20th October

Buy sell swap at our friendly Collectors Toy Fair. Browse Diecast models Model Railway items Kits Books Sci Fi Lego and more.

Plymouth City Centre

26th October - 3rd November

Join the Halloween Trail and hunt for the 15 creepy characters hiding in the shop windows of the city centre! frightfully fun time exploring the streets and discovering the secrets of the Halloween Trail. And if you find them all, you could win an exciting prize!

Dartmoor Zoological Park 25th - 26th October

This Halloween, Dartmoor Zoo is opening its gates after dark to invite you to a truly FANG-tastic night at the zoo!

Join us on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th October for two FRIGHTfully good evenings, filled with shock horrors, hair raising delights and nail biting frights…

Darklake Lane, Woolwell Saturday 26th October

Dance your heart out at the monster disco, join in with the hauntingly fun crafts and games and jump like a zombie in the bouncy castle. There’s a fancy dress competition and a feast of chips, burgers and hotdogs and the bar is fully stocked. Just £5 for adults and £3 for children. Under 2s go free.

HAlloween PArTy AT woolwell CenTre
THe HAlloween TrAil
JAClArAbAg
boo AT THe zoo

Pumpkin Patches to Visit

As the days shorten and the crisp autumn air settles in, the South West of the UK comes alive with vibrant pumpkin patches and seasonal fun. From family-friendly farms to sprawling countryside experiences, the region offers some of the best spots for pumpkin picking, perfect for creating autumn memories with friends and family. Whether you’re in search of the ideal pumpkin for carving or a day of festive activities, these pumpkin patches will leave you spoilt for choice.

Here are the top pumpkin patches to visit in Devon and the South West this October:

Strawberry Fields, Lifton, Devon

A beloved destination in the heart of Devon, Strawberry Fields in Lifton offers more than just pumpkin picking—it’s a full-fledged autumnal experience. Their popular Pumpkin Fest is a major attraction each October, featuring a large pumpkin patch where you can choose from a wide variety of sizes and shapes, perfect for Halloween decorations or carving contests.

Strawberry Fields enhances the autumn spirit with hayrides, spooky maize mazes, and a variety of seasonal treats available at the farm shop, including freshly baked pumpkin pies, hot cider, and homemade soups. Kids can enjoy the play area and take part in fun pumpkin-themed crafts, making this a top spot

for family outings.

Top Tip: Head to the farm’s café for one of their famous cream teas and take home a basket of their fresh, seasonal produce along with your pumpkin.

Pips Pick Your Own, Yealmpton, Devon

Nestled in the scenic Devon countryside near Yealmpton, Pips Pick Your Own is a hidden gem when it comes to pumpkin picking. Known for its warm, family-friendly atmosphere, this patch offers an array of pumpkins, from vibrant orange to rare varieties like white and striped pumpkins.

Pips is renowned for its “pick your own” ethos, encouraging visitors to wander through the picturesque fields and hand-select their perfect pumpkins. The patch also offers seasonal activities, including face painting, tractor rides, and plenty of photo opportunities for those looking to capture the spirit of autumn.

Best for: A peaceful countryside experience, ideal for those seeking a more intimate and relaxed day out in nature.

The Cornish Maize Maze & Pumpkin Patch, Saltash

Local Pumpkin Patches to Visit in Devon and the South West This October

Located just across the border in Saltash, The Cornish Maize Maze & Pumpkin Patch offers an exciting and adventurous autumn day out. This site boasts a large pumpkin patch filled with all kinds of pumpkins, alongside one of the South West’s most popular maize mazes—a winding, fun-filled adventure perfect for kids and adults alike.

With plenty of outdoor activities like tractor rides and a scarecrow trail, The Cornish Maize Maze & Pumpkin Patch makes for a memorable family day out. Their Halloween-themed events towards the end of October feature spooky evenings and twilight maize maze walks, adding a thrilling twist to the traditional pumpkin-picking experience.

Don’t miss: The onsite food stalls serving up warm, hearty seasonal fare like Cornish pasties and pumpkin-flavoured treats.

South Devon Pumpkin Patch, Ipplepen, Devon

For those near the Torbay area, the South Devon Pumpkin Patch in Ipplepen is a fantastic place to celebrate all things autumn. This familyrun farm has become a favourite for locals, thanks to its expansive pumpkin fields brimming with a variety of pumpkins, from classic orange to decorative gourds.

Alongside the pumpkin picking, the farm offers a selection of Halloween-themed activities, including ghostly scavenger hunts, tractor rides, and photo opportunities with vintage farm equipment and autumn displays. The welcoming atmosphere and beautifully set-up patch make it a hit with families and Instagrammers alike.

Perfect for: Families with young children looking for a friendly, low-key pumpkin-picking experience in South Devon.

Devon Pumpkin Picking, Newton Abbot, Devon

Conveniently located near Newton Abbot, Devon Pumpkin Picking is a must-visit for those in search of an authentic pumpkin-picking adventure. This sprawling patch features a diverse selection of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes, making it easy to find the perfect pumpkin for both decorating and carving.

The farm also hosts an array of seasonal activities, including a straw bale maze, face painting, and a kid-friendly spooky walk. In addition to the classic pumpkin experience, Devon Pumpkin Picking often offers local artisan stalls and food vendors, making it a festive day out for the whole family.

Insider tip: Be sure to check out their special events, which include pumpkin carving demonstrations and contests for the bestdecorated pumpkin.

Make the Most of Your Pumpkin Patch Adventure

When visiting any of these fantastic pumpkin patches in Devon and the South West, be sure to wear sturdy boots and warm clothing, as fields can get muddy and temperatures often drop in the autumn months. Many farms offer additional activities, from haunted corn mazes to seasonal food stalls, so plan ahead to make the most of your visit.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect pumpkin to carve, or simply want to immerse yourself in the beauty of the autumn countryside, these pumpkin patches in Devon and the South West offer something special for everyone.

Happy pumpkin picking!

RecipesSLOW COOKER

Slow cookers are perfect for minimal effort and flavorful, hands-off meals—here are some great recipes to try!

Slow-cooker beef stew

Serves - 4

INgREDIENTS

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 celery sticks, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp rapeseed oil

• 3 carrots, halved and cut into chunks

• 2 bay leaves

• ½ pack thyme

• 2 tbsp tomato purée

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 beef stock cubes or stock pots

• 900g beef for braising cut in chunks

• 2 tsp cornflour (optional)

• ½ small bunch parsley, chopped

• buttery mash, to serve (optional)

1

Fry the onion and celery in 1 tbsp oil over a low heat until they start to soften – about 5 mins. Add the carrots, bay and thyme, fry for 2 mins, stir in the purée and Worcestershire sauce, add 600ml boiling water, stir and tip everything into a slow cooker. Crumble over the stock cubes or add the stock pots and stir, then season with pepper (don’t add salt as the stock may be salty).

2

3

Clean out the frying pan and fry the beef in the remaining oil in batches until it is well browned, then tip each batch into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hrs, or on high for 4 hrs.

If you want to thicken the gravy, mix the cornflour with a splash of cold water to make a paste, then stir in 2 tbsp of the liquid from the slow cooker. Tip back into the slow cooker, stir and cook for a further 30 mins on high. Stir in the parsley and season again to taste. Serve with mash, if you like. Leave to cool before freezing.

Slow Cooker Roast Chicken

Serves - 4

INgREDIENTS

• 1 large onion, peeled and cut into thick slices

• 2 carrots, halved lengthways and chopped

• 1 small or medium chicken

• 2 tbsp butter, softened

• 1 bay leaf

1

2

Preheat the slow cooker if necessary. Put the onion and carrot in the base of the stock pot to form a protective layer to sit the chicken on, and add 100ml boiling water. Gently ease the chicken skin away from the breast. Stir some salt and pepper into the butter and push the butter under the skin. Put the bay leaf in the cavity of the chicken and sit on top of the onion and carrot.

3

There will be some gravy in the base of the dish with the veg, tip everything through a sieve and press the veg gently to make sure you get every last drop. Serve the veg on the side, if you like.

Cook on low for 5 hrs, then check that the chicken is cooked by wiggling the wing – it should feel very loose. Tip the chicken up so any liquid inside flows out, then cook on high for 30 mins. If the chicken isn’t cooked through after the initial time, cook for another hour, then turn the heat up. If you want the skin to be browned, grill it for a couple of minutes (make sure your slow cooker insert is flameproof if you keep it in the pot, or transfer it to a roasting tin).

Slow Cooker Ratatouille

Serves - 6

INgREDIENTS

•2 tbsp olive oil

•1 red onion, sliced

•2 garlic cloves

•2 large aubergines, cut into 1.5cm pieces

•3 courgettes, halved and cut into chunks

• 3 mixed peppers, cut into chunks

1

2

• 1 tbsp tomato purée

• 6 large ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped

• small bunch of basil, roughly chopped, extra to serve

• few thyme sprigs

• 400g can plum tomatoes

• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 1 tsp brown sugar

• sourdough, to serve

Heat the oil in a large frying pan and fry the onion for 8 mins until translucent. Add the garlic and fry for 1 min. Turn the heat to medium-high, add the aubergines and fry for 5 mins until golden. Stir in the courgettes and peppers and fry for 5 mins more until slightly soft. Add the tomato purée, fresh tomatoes, herbs, canned tomatoes, vinegar, sugar and 1 tsp salt and bring to the boil.

Transfer to the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until everything is soft and the sauce has thickened. Season, scatter over some extra basil, and serve with sourdough, if you like.

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