RedHanded Magazine - Issue 51 Ed Sheehan by Taste Magazine Scotland

DON’T GET CAUGHT WITHOUT IT

SPRING 2018

PERFECT ED’S KING OF THE CASTLE

BIG HITTING INTERVIEWS!

TALKING TO GLAMORGAN’S FINEST

IT’S ALL GO!

VOLVO OCEAN RACE, HUGE GIGS,FESTIVAL OF VOICE

SLEEPING IN THE FRIDGE

CHILLING AT THE ICE HOTEL FC_Redhanded_51.indd 1

11/05/2018 17:28:15

DIAMONDS . WATCHES . JEWELLERY

CARDIFF EDINBURGH GLASGOW SOUTHAMPTON

laingsuk.com

CONTENTS Features

16 Sail of the century A chat with Volvo Ocean Race ace Trystan Seal 19 Squeaky bum time Cardiﬀ to go up and Swansea for the drop?

23 Hitting it for six Howzat! Two of Glamorgan’s rising stars talking all things cricket 26 Join the A-Team We love it when a plan comes together… Mr Ed Sheeran agreed to chat to us! 30 Two Tone Tunes The Selector’s Pauline Black on their up-coming gig at Caerphilly Castle 36 Forget Castles! Don’t turn your home into a castle, try a 5-star hotel, a spa or even a spaceship instead! 44 Do Cardiff like a local! Our NEW guide to everything that’s going on in the capital 56 Park House Aﬀordable luxury dining

Regulars

6 Scene & Heard Pack your wellies! It’s festival time again 10 Right Stuff Buy buy baby! Here’s some kit you’ll love! 12 Niall’s World Niall’s moggy scores a purrfect ten 14 Write On An early morning walk in the woods 33 Travel Chilling with mermaids in Swedish Lapland! 39 Fashion Sun’s out… so put a spring in your step! 46 Lifestyle Style and substance from looking great on a budget to the Festival of Voice and Skyline 54 Health & Grooming A new range from Mr Golden Balls himself! 59 Cars Coming to a forecourt near you! 63 Reviews Every issue we do it all for you! Reading, listening, moshing and munching! 66 Sport What happened at the Six Nations then? 74 The Back Page Snow joke! Bennett nearly died during the winter cold snap

20,030 Total Average Net Distribution per issue between 1st January – 31st December 2016 through an average of 862 quality outlets in South Wales Conroy Media Ltd all enquiries: 029 2019 0224 email: redhanded@conroymedia.co.uk www.facebook.com/red.handedmagazine twitter.com/#!/RedHandedMag

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REDHANDED 3 14/05/2018 14:34:40

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SCENE AND HEARD

Get off that sofa and do something! Sammy Maine has a ton of great ideas to tempt you...

Get drunk in a field

With Glastonbury taking a year off, it’s time for those smaller fests to do their thing and take the limelight for a little while. Wales is crammed full of brilliant events that will quench your thirst for getting drunk in a field with your mates while a band plays that one song you know. Like Green Man (Brecon Beacons, 16 Aug – 19 Aug, £180) a shining beacon of international and Welsh entertainment with a decent array of ale. This year The War on Drugs and Fleet Foxes will be headlining. If you don’t mind a family-friendly environment and all the kids it brings with it, you can also head to Festival No. 6 (Portmeirion, 6 Sep – 9 Sep, £180). A fancier soiree than most, their main stage – hosting the likes of Friendly Fires and Franz Ferdinand – is a Mediterraneaninspired, Grade II-listed fantasy village, surrounded by estuary, mountains and woodlands. Swish huh?

Steering away from splashing out, you can pick and choose specific events at Hay Festival and just pay for what you fancy (Hay-On-Wye, 24 May – 3 June, from £6). With everything from yoga classes to stand-up comedy from Russell Kane, it’s definitely worth a look-in if you like to explore culture stuff beyond bands. Working to a similar vibe is Festival of Voice (Cardiff, 7 – 17 June), an 11-day, city-venue event that will include performances from Patti Smith, Laura Veirs, Nadine Shah, Billy Bragg and the premiere of Gruff Rhys performing with BBC National Orchestra of Wales.

“Looking for a different way to brave the Great Welsh summer weather?”

Looking for a different way to brave the Great Welsh summer weather? Welsh Fest (Cardiff, 27 – 29 July, £45-£55) is the perfect chance to witness Welsh musical royalty and yes, that does mean Goldie Lookin Chain. Sticking to Welsh talent, the National Eisteddfod’s alternative little brother Maes B (Cardiff, 8-11 August, £12-£140) returns with some up-and-coming Welsh language acts including Chroma, Ffracas and Ffug. If guitars aren’t really your thing, you could always opt for Gottwood (Carreglwyd, 7–10 June, £175) and their eclectic line-up of some of the best electronic artists working in the scene today. Highlights include Ben UFO, Mr Scruff and Kiara Scuro.

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weirdo Bill Bailey (Cardiff, Motorpoint Arena, 1 June, £27.50+) will be bringing his surreal show to town, promising more music-making than ever before. (Watch out for his symphony crafted from a mere mobile phone ringtone and his reimagining of Old McDonald.) Continuing with the surreal vibe, Scotland’s favourite Vine-extraordinaire Limmy (Cardiff, Glee Club, 24 May, £15) will be screening his masterpieces with an audience Q&A allowing you to pick the brains of one of comedy’s biggest cult heroes. Celebrity Juice regular and Comedy Central host Chris Ramsey (Cardiff, St David’s Hall, 12 July, £22) brings his brand new show ‘Just Happy to Get Out of the House’ to town, set to feature upbeat anecdotes and feel-good humour. Finally, if you prefer your comedy to include more insults than you can shake a wig at, look no further than drag queen superstar Bianca Del Rio (Cardiff, St David’s Hall, 1-2 August, £37+).

That nice warm feeling inside

If you’re a bit of a wimp, don’t worry! You don’t have to spend a weekend in a damp field to enjoy live music this summer. The Manic Street Preachers (Cardiff, Motorpoint Arena, 5 May, £47.50) will be playing in support of their 13th full length album, Resistance Is Futile, with support from The Coral. If you’re a fan of the Welsh three-piece, chances are you’re a fan of Noel Gallagher (Cardiff, Motorpoint Arena, 6 May, £45) too. Well, lucky you! The former Oasis guitarist will be playing tracks from his latest album Who Built The Moon. Elsewhere, Sub Pop’s Bully (Cardiff, Clwb Ifor Bach, 13 May, £9) have quickly become one of the best grunge acts in recent years while The Wave Pictures (Cardiff, Clwb Ifor Bach, 19 June, £12) will be in town to promote the forthcoming release of their next album, Brushes With Happiness. Alex Turner collaborator and The Last Shadow Puppets member Miles Kane (Cardiff, Tramshed, 29 June, £22) will be pulling no punches as he promotes his err, wrestling-inspired new record. Over in Swansea, take your pick of rock or fluff as the Killers play one of just two UK live gigs (Swansea, Liberty Stadium, June 23, £50) and then Little Mix strut their spangles a week or so later. (Swansea, Liberty Stadium, July 7, £tbc). At time of writing Little Mix looked sold out (yeah, we can’t work it out either) but you could always shake your bits to Steps in Llanelli instead! (Parc y Scarlets, June 3, £45).

You ‘avin a laugh?

Course you are! Well that’s if you’re in comedy-central Cardiff! Sarah Millican (Cardiff, St David’s Hall, 9-10 May, £29) will be exploring her controlling personality with a hilarious new show while Jason Manford (Cardiff, St David’s Hall, 11 May, £29) will chat about the troubles of growing up working class and diverting into the middle class come adulthood. Comedy’s favourite

Shakespeare and stockings

Cardiff ’s Open Air Theatre Fair (The Everyman Theatre, 21 June – 28 July, £14+) will once again be offering up a broad range of theatre in a groovy outdoor setting. Enjoy a beer in the sun, while witnessing Shakespeare’s comedy of love, sex, power and revenge, The Merchant of Venice (21-30 June); fish out your favourite stockings and sing-a-long to a special screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1 July); return to beloved sitcom Dad’s Army (5-14 July) with a special stage adaptation; witness the breathtakingly beautiful musical Fiddler On The Roof (19-28 July) or if tragedy is more your thing, there’ll also be a performance of Shakespeare’s King Lear (22 July). For those who take the stage a tad less seriously, you can drop your jaw to the mind-controlling antics of Derren Brown (Cardiff, Wales Millennium Centre, 8-12 May, £25+) or rediscover the iconic tunes of The Beatles with the Let It Be musical (Cardiff, Wales Millennium Centre, 20-25 August, £15.50+). And, fancy a taste of the West End? Well you’re in luck! War Horse (Cardiff, Wales Millennium Centre, 4-28 July, £15-£55) and Michael Jackson’s Thriller (Cardiff, New Theatre, 23-28 July, £19.50+) will be moonwalking into town.

Outside the box

Looking for something a little more left-field? Ernie Sparkles: X-Rated Attenborough (Cardiff, Wales Millennium Centre, 11 May, £15) will make you see beloved national treasure David in a whole new light. Speaking of old guys off the telly, WWE and TNA Wrestling Legend Billy Gunn (Cardiff, Motorpoint Arena, 3 May, £15+) will be diving into his spandexfuelled past with a no-holds-barred chat. Elsewhere, the Film & Comic Con Cardiff (Cardiff, Motorpoint Arena, 12-13 May, £8+) is back once again to make all your Marvel dreams come true.

“Finally, if you prefer your comedy to include more insults than you can shake a wig at...” 6 REDHANDED

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In Brief Lab-our of Love

The chaps at Lab 22 simply love what they do. Imagine how they felt then when the world’s best cocktail bar The American Bar at the Savoy did a takeover. Through an introduction from an ex Lab 22 tender, now working at The American Bar and after a rigorous vetting process, two of the London Bar’s master cocktail makers presented a menu at Lab 22 comprised of 20th century classics, as well as a few offerings from the new 2018 menu at the Savoy’s bar. That’s awesome recognition for a lot of hard graft and imagination from Lab’s team. 22 Caroline St, Cardiff CF10 1FG. Tel. 029 2039 9997 www.lab22cardiff.com

A-Meze-ing Troy

While we’re talking about value money, the team at RedHanded recently paid a visit to Troy, the best Kebab restaurant this side of the Severn bridge (don’t take our word for it, this verdict came from the Times, no less), and had Troy’s all in £20 deal (min 4 people). It’s not far short of an all you can eat package – hot and cold meze that just keep coming until you’re stuffed and most of the main courses (excluding steak and fish). Gluttony? Hell, yeah. And we love it. Troy, 192 City Road, Cardiff CF24 3JF. 029 2049 9339 www.troymezebar.com

Stimulate the Senses

Audi take great pride in the ability of their cars to deliver a sensual driving experience. At Cardiff Audi they took this a step further at a celebration of the RS and S ranges, aptly titled ‘Audi Senses Evening’. Award winning top chefs including James Sommerin and Steven Gomes from Moksh were invited to showcase some great cooking skills while guests enjoyed the resulting culinary delights, whilst perusing the automotive muscle on show. Cardiff Gate Business Park, Cardiff CF23 8RT. Tel. 029 2054 7555

Up, up and away

After much fanfare, Qatar Airways will have officially launched their first services from Cardiff Airport around the time you’re likely to be reading this. It opens up a whole new world, literally, of destinations you’ll be able to fly to, many with just the one change of flight at Doha. www.cardiff-airport.com

Belly Vision

Well, you don’t see this very often. Diners at Mezza Luna on Cardiff ’s City Road get a double treat when they have a meal on a Friday or Saturday night. As well as enjoying some fine middle eastern and Moroccan tucker, they’ll be entertained, uniquely in Wales to our knowledge, by a real, professional belly dancer. Now that’s what we call appetizing. 159 City Rd, Cardiff CF24 3BQ. Tel. 029 2047 2772

To Infinity and Beyond

It’s all happening at Moksh. Award winning Moksh Restaurant in Cardiff Bay is renowned for the quality and ambition of its Indian cuisine (Indian Cuisine And Beyond, as they put it). It’s also ‘compact and bijou’ which, whilst eminently sensible for a young, independent start-up ten years ago, does limit the number of guests that can experience chef Stephen Gomes’ wizardry. It also places a limit on the potential for growing and expanding the business. So, Stephen and his business partners have bitten the bullet and are moving all of ten yards to a larger site in Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay in late spring. www.moksh.co.uk Tel. 029 2049 8120

Win, Win, Win! Competition time at RedHanded. Not one but two competitions for you lucky, lucky people. First up, we have a pair of VIP tickets for Steelhouse Festival, 27-29th July. Featuring Glenn Hughes (ex Deep Purple), Myles Kennedy and the Black Star Riders, you’ll get access all areas and the full VIP treatment. All you have to do is answer the following simple question. What colour was Glenn Hughes’ suit at the legendary Cal-Jam Deep Purple gig in 1974? Clue – read page 49. Email your answer to redhanded@ conroymedia.co.uk or message us on twitter @RedHandedMag Next up are a pair of tickets to a concert of your choice (subject to availability) at the Festival of Voice. There’s an amazing line-up throughout Cardiff with headliners such as Patti Smith, Elvis Costello and Gruff Rhys playing at lead venue, the Wales Millennium Centre. To win simply tell us the name of Gruff Rhys’ band. Email your answer to redhanded@conroymedia.co.uk or message us via twitter @RedHandedMag

8 REDHANDED 8_Redhanded_51.indd 8

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14/05/2018 13:49:27

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THE RIGHT STUFF RINGS AROUND THE WORLD

With every other aspect of our lives becoming wireless, it was only a matter of time before someone thought to apply that technology to the humble doorbell. Now you need never miss that important package that the postman can’t fit through your mailbox, or that life-affirming visit from the local Jehovah’s Witnesses. The Ring Video Doorbell 2 allows you to see, hear and speak with whoever is in your property from anywhere in the world via your tablet or phone, all through your Wi-Fi. Price: £179.00 Retail: www.ring.com

COFFEE AND QUIET…

For those of us who remember that 80’s Brooke Bond/ Red Mountain coffee advert it’s almost an anathema that a coffee maker would boast about how quiet their appliance is. That waiter would turn in his grave if he were to come across the Barista TS Smart from Melitta (providing that he is actually dead of course), as it carries the prestigious ‘Quiet Mark’ for being the quietest appliance in its field. It also makes a cracking cup of coffee, whatever your particular coffee persuasion. Price: £1,199 Retail: www.melitta.co.uk

LIGHTS, CAMERA…

We’ve all had those ‘did you see that nutter’ moments whilst driving along innocently, wishing that we could have recorded it for posterity to show family and friends (or send to Harry Hill’s You’ve been Framed!). Well 2.6 million people in the UK are doing just that, and they’re also increasingly making new friends with their car insurers as well. The next level of dashcams is brought to us via the NextBase 512GW, which is the all-singing and dancing version of their portfolio of dashcams. It records at 1440p QUAD HD, ensuring the footage is crystal clear, and has a 140° ultra-wide viewing angle capturing the entire road ahead. Price: £149.99 Retail: www.halfords.com

10 REDHANDED

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LISTEN-UP

When even the guy shining your shoes on the street corner is wearing a pair of Beats by Dre you know that it’s time to change things up. So where do you go for superior quality and standards without breaking the bank? Introducing the Focal Listen Wireless range of headphones, that combines acoustics with cost-effectiveness. Check out the ‘Chic’ range as well for more individuality. Price: £22.00 Retail: www.focal.com

LOVING A VACUUM

Robot vacuum cleaners are getting less and less like something from Back to the Future as more and more ranges become available and more ordinary people have them as the prices start to come down. The Roomba 980 is a further development in the evolution of these soon-to-be everyday household items. It is not only controlled via your smartphone, has intelligent manoeuvring skills and works with Amazon Echo – but it is also bagless. Meaning no faffing around on your knees in a cloud of dust, and more time tinkering with DeLoreans. Price: £899.00 Retail: www.irobot.co.uk

A MIGHTY ATOM

This isn’t a shortcut for the fair-weather. The Wattbike Atom indoor bike trainer incorporates Real Ride Feel technology that replicates the resistance and sensation of riding on the road. Perfected over 10 years working alongside British Cycling, Olympic Cyclists and world-leading sports scientists, it’s the most authentic ride feel in the world. So all the pain you put yourself through indoors translates directly to performance improvement where it really matters. Price: £1,499 Retail: www.wattbike.com

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REDHANDED 11

PAWS Is your cat an undiscovered genius? Niall’s is

“Boris bumbles and offends somebody somewhere. I email back: sterling. The cat washes his paw.

I’m checking my cat’s IQ, to the instructions of a little book subtitled ‘Is Your Cat an Undiscovered Genius?’. I’m hungover, and a bit bored, and the cat just wants to sleep off the half rat he devoured in the small hours, leaving the rear end on the kitchen floor for me to horribly step on in the bleary morning. I also have my devices open to the world: the smartphone, the laptop. Gmail and Twitter are both activated. The TV’s on, too, on the rolling news channel. I stroke the cat on the chin with my finger. He licks his lips and wins four points. I touch him gently on the spine and he ripples his fur and wins a further two. He watches, with murderous intent, a sparrow on the fatball outside the window. My phone buzzes and tells me that some standing orders have bounced. I check my balance and it’s negative. I fire off an email to the company in Dublin that should’ve recently paid some money into my account and ask what’s happened to it. Boris Johnson says something demonstrably untrue on the telly. Daniel Hannan says something utterly dimwitted.

Is your cat able to remain still, for two minutes, while awake? Yes, very often. He’s like Mickey Flanagan’s cockneys: he likes to look abaht. He gets another four points. Email: was the payment in euro or sterling? A retweet: the vote to leave the EU was a reaction against the establishment, says Jacob Rees-Mogg, cartoon toff, mansion-dweller, old Etonian, and berserkly, ridiculously rich. He’s right, says the factory worker from Barnsley; down with the establishment! Boris bumbles and offends somebody somewhere. I email back: sterling. The cat washes his paw. A text: I will be charged for my returned standing orders. I must ensure that there are funds in my account to meet these charges, and also the re-issued payments, the recipients of which may also decide to charge. I email Dublin, expressing urgency. Liam Fox is complaining that the EU is going to do precisely what it has told him on many occasions it was going to do. Boris bumbles. David Davis appears, looking like he hasn’t slept in 50 years. I tap a glass with my lighter and the cat turns his head completely around in the direction of the sound. Four more points. He’s doing well. They’re talking some nonsense about patriotism now. To which of the four countries of the union, exactly? And treachery, it apparently is now, to dare to question the government: these are the words they use, in 2018. After all that our grandparents saw and lived through. And besides - a fetishistic attachment to whatever scab of rock one’s genes happened to collide

12 REDHANDED • Issue 3

FOR THOUGHT

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and crash land on; isn’t this, really, unfathomably strange? Isn’t it the peak, or nadir, of human idiocy? Isn’t it the shallowest, most narrow-minded, most feeble basis on which to build identity? I ask this of my cat and he rolls over to expose his belly for a tickle and if I could award him 1000 points for this response I would but the book doesn’t allow it. The payment has been returned, says an email from Dublin; it was issued in euros and it’ll now have to be re-paid to me, following conversion into sterling. I grit my teeth. You had the address of my bank, I email back, which clearly states that it is in Wales. What currency does Wales use? This you must know. This you must be aware of. I slowly move a pencil towards my cat’s face and he bats at it thrice with a paw. His tally goes up further. Three missed standing orders three penalty charges of twelve pounds each I think it is. What currency does Wales use, for God’s sake? A shrieking orange demon with a rotting honey badger on its head appears on the TV. I jump in fright, then realise it’s the preposterous thing that America is now calling a president which, hungover as I am, makes me jump in fright again. He opens his gob and fear and stupidity dribbles out and I deduct no points from my cat’s total because I have never observed him sleeping in his food bowl. Twitter hollers on my phone. I glance, see another re-tweet that mentions Leave.EU and turn it off. Shut down my laptop, turn off the TV. Add up my cat’s total points and discover that he’s scored well into the category classed as ‘superior’. That deserves a tin of sardines. I go into the kitchen and he appears at my feet as soon as I take the tin down from the shelf; it’s almost telepathic. I tell him he’s ‘superior’. He purrs and gives me that look over his shoulder. Like, ‘If I’m the daddy… See these things that make me a Tomcat? They’re not gonna lick themselves.’ I get on all fours, like him. ©Niall Griffiths 2018

Red Handed_Layout 1 03/05/2018 14:06 Page 1

An Audience with Simon Reeve 20.09.18

Dave Gorman 15.09.18 & 16.09.18

Neil Oliver 18.10.18

Chris Ramsey Just Happy to Get Out of the House 12.07.18

Alexandra Burke The Truth Is 17.09.18

An Evening with Ant Middleton 31.08.18

An Evening with David Sedaris 10.07.18

Kevin & Karen Dance 2018 08.07.18

WĂźrth Philharmonic Orchestra feat. Maxim Vengerov 10.06.18

Project1_Layout 1 14/05/2018 14:41 Page 1

An Audience with Simon Reeve 20.09.18

Dave Gorman 15.09.18 & 16.09.18

Neil Oliver 18.10.18

Chris Ramsey Just Happy to Get Out of the House 12.07.18

Alexandra Burke The Truth Is 17.09.18

An Evening with Ant Middleton 31.08.18

An Evening with David Sedaris 10.07.18

Kevin & Karen Dance 2018 08.07.18

WĂźrth Philharmonic Orchestra feat. Maxim Vengerov 10.06.18

LAU R A A S H LEY

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10/05/2018 13:23:19

With the imminent arrival of the Volvo Ocean Race in Cardiff, RedHanded catches up with Wales’ own Trystan Seal as he prepares to compete in the world’s ultimate yacht race.

SAIL Red Handed: You grew up sailing in Cardigan Bay – did you decide at an early age that your career would have to involve messing about on boats? Trystan Seal: Yes, I guess I did. I’ve always had a passion for the water and yacht racing and once I knew there was the possibility of making a career out of racing, I knew it was for me.

RH: For the uninitiated, what’s the appeal of sailing? TS: I think it’s the challenge of the elements and, especially with this race, the sense of adventure and working in a strong team. There are so many variables to contend with when sailing such as the weather, wind and tides along with the setup of the boat which make it a rewarding sport when you get it right. RH: And was it always your ambition to race professionally? TS: Yes, once I saw it was a possibility to earn a living from racing yachts, I worked hard to make sure I got there. Sailed as much as I possibly could on as many different types of boats trying to learn all the time. RH: How did you get from a recently qualified engineering graduate to crewing in one of the sport’s premier events, The Volvo Round the World Yacht Race, so quickly? TS: So, once I moved down to the South coast of England from West Wales in around 2010 I got offered an apprenticeship with a company called Diverse Yachts who specialise in race yacht systems and electronics. Through them I got involved with the Volvo Ocean 65 fit out in Green Marine. I then was head of the Electronics team for the Boatyard in the 2014-15 race. From there I got to know the systems very well and met lots of the sailors. I also realised where my position on the boat would be. Being a bigger guy, I concentrated on that and spent a lot of the time in the gym to try to get big and strong. RH: Is the route you followed – working for a yacht builder in a technical role – a good way to get a berth in an ocean-going race team, especially if you don’t come from a particularly wealthy background? TS: For sure, especially with this race. It’s extremely important to be able to fix things at sea so having a trade brings another skill set on top of your sailing. RH: The tragedy that befell your crewmate John Fisher (who was swept overboard and lost at sea) shows that, for all the glamour, sailing is still a dangerous sport. Is that something you are always conscious of and how do you deal with it? TS: It is a risk we are all aware of when sailing but even more so ocean sailing. There is always an element

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OF THE CENTURY

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of risk and if there wasn’t the race wouldn’t have the same appeal. It’s a challenge so it is going to be tough and dangerous at times it’s just a matter of how you manage it. We are a very strong team in spirit and have all gotten very tight as the race has gone on. We will stick together and carry on to the future as John would have wanted us to do. RH: Tell us a bit about the yacht. Presumably it’s a different beast from a ‘normal’ sailing boat? TS: Yes, there is no interior, it is a fully stripped out racing yacht with no creature comforts. The boat is constructed of carbon fibre to make it very strong, stiff and lightweight. Being carbon it is a very resonant material so trimming and easing any sheet is almost deafening inside. They can also be very lively in heavy wind and big seas which can make getting around the boat difficult without being thrown around. RH: Volvo Ocean Race comes to Cardiff at the end of May. What can spectators lining the shore of Cardiff Bay expect to see? TS: It is the first time the Volvo Ocean Race has been to Cardiff so I hope that everyone gets behind the race as it is great to have such a high-profile event coming to such a great city. There will be lots of opportunity to see the boats in Cardiff Bay and some spectacular inshore racing before we leave. I just hope the weather can hold out otherwise I’ll never hear the end of it from Witty and the rest of the Aussies onboard! Volvo Ocean Race, 27 May-10 June. A two week long free festival located near Cardiff Bay Barrage, with race-themed attractions and entertainment, including live music and performances. Internationally renowned contemporary circus company NoFit State Circus will be performing their new production ‘LEXICON’ also created by writer and performance creator Firenza Guidi. Welsh producers will also be there offering locally-sourced food and drink featuring real ale bars and the most popular street food vendors.

® Specialising in original works and signed limited editions, the UK’s leading group of high street galleries, Castle Fine Art, boasts an extensive collection sure to enchant and inspire. Visitors can find works from cultural icons such as Bob Dylan and Ronnie Wood on gallery walls, alongside pieces from critically acclaimed artists making their mark on today’s contemporary art scene.

MEET THE ARTIST ROBERT OXLEY Wildlife painter Robert Oxley will be visiting the gallery on Saturday 28th July from 1-3pm to showcase his latest collection, Instinct. The works take inspiration from his eclectic taste in music and his love of animals.

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WHAT GOES UP?

Cardiff could go up, but can they stay up? Will Swansea avoid the drop? What’s for sure is every game in the last few weeks will feel like a cup final, says Will Burton There’s a chance we could see the return of the South Wales Derby after a four year absence next season. Few days can match the fervour, intensity and passion. It’s a game that matters intensely to two clubs separated by barely 40 miles of the M4 with some of the most passionate supporters in the football league. At the time of writing, although there are still fixtures to be played, Cardiff City are firmly on course for promotion, but whether Swansea City can avoid relegation is anyone’s guess. But how have we got to this stage and what lies ahead for both clubs in the coming months? The fact is Cardiff City were not supposed to be in this position, even manager Neil Warnock saw them as play-off candidates rather than challengers for automatic promotion. But, in the midst of several years of poor decision-

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“Warnock’s know-how has been the driving force”

“Swansea’s season has been a rather joyless aﬀair”

making and allegations of asset-stripping, the choice of promotion specialist Warnock as manager has proved the spark that has turned around a club that appeared to be operating with little discernible purpose. Warnock may turn 70 later this year, but the fire still burns brightly within the Yorkshireman, and his know-how has been the driving force behind the revival of the Bluebirds’ fortunes. Love him or hate him, his record cannot be denied. “The move to appoint Neil Warnock looked a smart decision, and it has proved that way,” says former Cardiff defender and caretaker manager Danny Gabbidon. “He already has seven promotions under his belt, he knows what it takes and he has brought a real clarity to the club. “The players know exactly what is expected of them, he knows the sort of characters he needs and the club have been wise enough to back him and he has delivered. “If you look at the resources of the likes of Aston Villa, Derby and Fulham, you can argue that Cardiff have no right to be where they are. The players have done brilliantly, Sean Morrison has led them well, Sol Bamba and Joe Ralls have impressed, but this is a team in Warnock’s image. “Hard to beat, horrible to play against, but with enough quality to hurt teams at the other end.” The most impressive part of Cardiff ’s season is that rather than putting together a late surge - they have been among the pace-setters all along and set out their stall by beating Wolves and Villa in the opening weeks of the season. They laid down a marker then and have shown real steel when overcoming tough spells. A four-match losing run over Christmas threatened to derail them, but was followed by an emphatic win over Sunderland. Defeats to Villa and Wolves in April were followed by wins over Norwich and Nottingham Forest. Those recoveries have been key and stymied the optimism of their rivals. Swansea’s season, by contrast, has been a rather joyless affair. Another poor summer transfer window - the sales of Gylfi Sigurdsson and Fernando Llorente, the misguided signings of Renato Sanches, Roque Mesa and Wilfried Bony - left an already weak squad particularly vulnerable. They slipped ever further into the mire and this lead to the sacking of Paul Clement in December. The appointment of Carlos Carvalhal enthused few among the Swansea faithful. But the Portuguese has overseen a remarkable turnaround to guide them to the brink of safety, a situation that appeared highly

unlikely when he was appointed in the wake of a 5-0 thrashing at Anfield. His relentless positivity has made a notable difference in mood, and the players have enjoyed being greeted by a smiling face when they report for duty rather than the sullen demeanour of Clement in the dying weeks of his tenure. Liberty Stadium wins over Liverpool and Arsenal lit the blue touch paper on the Swans’ revival. But that momentum has dissipated over the closing weeks of the campaign and it really could go either way. “He sees no reason why we cannot beat any side,” says Federico Fernandez. “Before the games against Liverpool and Arsenal at home he told us we would win, and we did. “He tells us stories, he makes us laugh, but he also knows when to be serious. He has made a difference and I hope he stays.” That will be the big conundrum facing Swansea this summer. Warnock has a new deal in his pocket at Cardiff, but do Swansea stick or twist with the manager, whether they get relegated or they stay up? Swansea City great Leighton James is in the proCarvalhal camp but believes there are other issues that will need to be addressed this summer. “I was never convinced by Paul Clement, but Carlos Carvalhal has earned the right to be given the chance next season,” says James. “Without him Swansea would already be doomed but I would add that whoever the manager is needs better help from the recruitment team. “Swansea used to be great at identifying talent like Michu, but that is no longer the case. Look at the money wasted on the likes of Borja Baston and Roque Mesa. Swansea cannot afford that. “The new manager needs a stronger squad and key players like Lukasz Fabianski, Alfie Mawson and Jordan Ayew - who have been excellent under Carvalhal - all need to be retained.” If Swansea will need strengthening, then Cardiff will face every bit as arduous a summer. They have overcome the odds in the Championship, but asking the same group of players to do the same in the Premier League will be asking for trouble. “They will need to strengthen, there’s no doubt,” says Gabbidon. “There are players there I think can perform at Premier League level, but there are plenty who are Championship players and no more. “That’s what’s going to be interesting: will Vincent Tan invest heavily now they are back in the top-flight? “He gave Warnock some money to spend, but the Premier League is another level and there are several positions where they need quality reinforcements, particularly up front and in midfield, to be competitive over a season.” For now, those concerns are for the future as the final chapters of 2017-18 are consigned to the history books. In the meantime, supporters will allow themselves to dream of the return of the fixture that matters most to them. The South Wales Derby provokes a rivalry so even that neither side has ever done the league double over the other. It’s a mouth-watering prospect. But will it happen?

“Swansea used to be great at identifying talent” 20 REDHANDED 19-20_Redhanded_51.indd 20

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SMASHING IT OUT OF THE PARK The county cricket season is upon us and Glamorgan are looking to build on an encouraging 2017 season and make strides in all formats of the game. Under the guidance of Robert Croft, the Welsh county have shown signs of genuine progress after a number of difficult seasons. Silverware is on the agenda in 2018 on the back of a series of strong performances in limited-overs cricket last term. Here, 21-year-old batsman Aneurin Donald gives us his take on the County Championship season to come, while one-day captain Colin Ingram previews Glamorgan’s Vitality Blast and Royal London One-Day Cup campaigns.

ANEURIN DONALD

How has the off-season and preparations for the new campaign gone? The off-season has been great for everyone at the club, a few of us were even lucky enough to go away to somewhere a lot sunnier than Cardiff this winter to train! David Lloyd, Owen Morgan and myself took part in the Gary Kirsten academy, based in Cape Town, for a couple of months which was fantastic. Cape Town and the cricket facilities we had were incredible, however the drought made general day-today life pretty interesting! Others were spread across Australia and New Zealand. The general vibe in the squad is great, everyone is excited to get on with the season on the back of a preseason tour in Dubai where we were based at the ICC academy and their world class facilities.

How do you reflect on the 2017 season as a whole? Last year was pretty much the definition of a season of highs and lows. A couple of brilliant performances in the longer format were probably overshadowed by some below-par ones. Winning at Worcester inside three days, losing a thriller at Colwyn Bay with a team full of Welsh youngsters and then finishing on a high with a brilliant performance at Kent left us with plenty of hope and confidence to carry into 2018. We didn’t finish anywhere near where we wanted and this was ultimately down to our lack of consistency, which is the foundation great four-day teams are built around.

Will Burton chats to two of Glamorgan Cricket Club’s big hitters on the hunt for silverware this season.

What areas do you hope the team can improve on this year and what are the targets? Speaking from a batting point of view, we know we need to face more balls and bat for longer periods of time, this is a sure-fire way to build the big totals that we need to dominate matches. Personally, I was a bit disappointed with my red-ball form last year, a few technical issues at points didn’t help. But this winter I’ve gone away and worked hard to simplify my game as much as possible. I am very confident I will produce the goods this year. Matthew Maynard has been working with the county as a consultant batting coach. What has it been like to work with him? We’ve been extremely fortunate to have Matt rejoin as our batting consultant. It is definitely the right step in trying to mould our young batting group into highclass batters and hopefully future internationals.

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His thoughts and views on batting resonate with me particularly. He has been there and done it for Glamorgan and England and, especially with his style of play, it is something I aspire to do. I will be looking to gain all the knowledge I can from him.

game has been rejuvenated. It’s been exciting and I’ve looked to grow my skills and play with a lot more freedom. It’s been great to have the backing and encouragement from my team-mates and it’s been an exciting couple years.

You also have Australian international Shaun Marsh on board after his fine Ashes series. What do you hope he can add in 2018? Signing an exceptional all-format top-order batsman like Shaun Marsh allows us to have that senior head in our four-day side.

People will always focus on boundaries and big hitting in limited-overs cricket but, from a player’s perspective, is it still about ensuring the fundamentals are in place? The game has really grown in skill level and it still amazes me how guys just lap and reverse lap or just get down and smoke one out of the park.

He has been fortunate enough to wear the daffodil before and, however painful it was to watch his Ashes form, it bodes well for us as a team this year.

“There are plenty of talented Welsh youngsters in the ranks.”

How did you find the development pathway at Glamorgan and do you feel a bright future lies ahead for the county? I was very lucky to be a part of the Wales pathway from under-11s right through to the Glamorgan academy. I was also involved with various ECB programmes and teams from under-15 and under-16 level. Wales juniors are always strong sides and it’s just making sure we develop the quality juniors coming through into players that will play first-team cricket. This is clear to see as the likes of David Lloyd, Ruaidhri Smith, Andrew Salter, Owen Morgan, Lukas Carey and Kiran Carlson have all played huge parts for us over the last few years. This is definitely an exciting time for the club, there are plenty of talented Welsh youngsters in the ranks.

COLIN INGRAM

You’ve been appointed as limited-overs captain for the 2018 season. That must be a source of pride and a role you are relishing? I’m really looking forward to the 2018 season. The last couple of years playing for Glamorgan have been amazing and some of the most enjoyable of my career. As far as captaincy is concerned, it will be great to lead a great bunch of characters who really enjoy their white ball cricket. I’m looking forward to the challenge and an exciting season ahead. You enjoyed a stellar 2017, what is the key to continuing that excellent form? I think one of the main keys is that I’m really enjoying my cricket. County cricket has grabbed me and my

I think we almost take it for granted watching on TV as it looks so easy. The crowd love to see boundaries and it captivates them. I think it’s part of every batsman’s game these days in white ball cricket. I love that part of the game. My main focus is to win games of cricket and with so much instinct flowing these days I try just to let the game tell me how to play, it simplifies it for me. I try to stick to that. Having been to the last Vitality Blast finals day, and narrowly missed out on a quarter-final in the Royal London One-Day Cup, is silverware the target in 2018? Silverware should be high up on any player’s to-do list and it certainly is for me. We’ve been close in the past few seasons which has been great and made everyone hungry for a trophy. Most encouraging has been the way we’ve played and the consistency in which we’ve won games. We’ve played a positive brand and won some thrilling games. Hopefully this year we can use that and go all the way. There were some special nights at the SSE SWALEC last year, you must be hoping for more big crowds and great atmospheres? Playing at the SSE SWALEC over the past three years has been special, we’ve played well at home and the excitement in Wales around cricket has been awesome. We’ve received great support and there really has been a great feel around the ground. I feel the players have fed off that and we’ve played an exciting brand of cricket. I must say I love it when the crowd starts singing and chanting; it’s great to play in front of that sort of atmosphere and the team really appreciate it. What would you deem a successful season for Glamorgan in one-day cricket in 2018? Success is always difficult to quantify but I would love to see us continue to grow. We’ve got to win games and keep developing our team and squad. It really has been great to see so many young players come through the system and step up over the past few years. Success for me would be to keep playing our positive brand, enjoy each other’s company and win a piece of silverware. For the latest news and fixture details for all cricket formats see www.glamorgancricket.com

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14/05/2018 12:22:15

DIVIDE AND RULE Ed Sheeran is back with a brand new album: Divide. And heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sold out four massive nights at the Principality stadium. Ken Summit catches up with the multiaward winning megastar.

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“I do think this is the album I’ll be known for” RedHanded: You’re back with a new album. Is it even better than your previous ones? ES: Yeah I think it was really important to make sure that it was a seminal record. Like the last two records I’ve made have been very successful but they haven’t necessarily been... like you know when you look back at Bruce Springsteen’s career or Bob Dylan’s you can pinpoint the albums that it just went f--king nuts for them. I don’t think I had that yet. I’ve had the kind of build albums. I haven’t had the Adele’s ‘21’ or Bob Dylan with ‘Blonde on Blonde’. Or Springsteen with ‘Born in the USA’

RH: So now it's that time? Time for the classic ES album? ES: Yeah well, maybe not classic. But I do think this is the album I’ll be known for, as opposed to the other two. RH: So was it harder to write? Or are you just getting better at it? ES: Yeah I did work harder. But also I wasn’t complacent. When I finished the album I left it for a month and then came back to it and chose which songs weren’t classics and chopped them off and tried to write new ones. So yeah, it’s definitely had more thought. RH: So do you have an ear for a classic song? ES: No, it’s not me. There’s like four or five people I play them to. And if all five of them go ‘Yeah’ then it’s usually a good song. RH: Who are those people? ES: My dad and Stewart, my manager, are always good ones. And my cousin Murray. Those three, if those three are into something then it’s usually a good tune.

RH: You seem pretty untouched by fame. Agree? ES: It changed the people around me more than it changed me. And that in turn changes you because when the people around you change towards you, you get very paranoid. Fame is a weird thing. Like I can’t walk outside my house without putting on a baseball cap, sunglasses and a hood. That’s kind of why I moved back to my home town, like everyone treats me normally there. RH: You talk about your mates in Castle on the Hill. Do you still see them? ES: Yeah, I saw them at the weekend. We go on holiday twice a year together and then they all live probably about an hour away from me in London. So most weekends they have a party at their house that I go to. RH: So the parties aren't at your place? ES: My house is like... I have cats that would get scared of a lot of people… their house is like, it’s ten boys in one house. So it is just all my mates all in one house. So their house is a party house and they are more than fine with that. My house in Framlingham was the party house, but now I’ve got all the kitchen re-done to make it homely, wooden floors, country kitchen, big Aga, so it’s no longer the party house now. RH: What about this secret tunnel you've built underground? ES: [Laughs] So there’s going to be a pub. That’s the party pub. But the house is like completely separate. RH: Smart. So you keep the chaos away from the house if there's a party! ES: Pretty much. You don’t wake up in the morning and go down to the kitchen and there’s someone sleeping on the kitchen counter.

RH: What's been the best advice your dad has given you? ES: Well for the music industry he said don’t talk about religion or politics. And it seems to have been working. [laughs] There is actually a song where I said ‘My daddy told me don’t get involved in politics or religion.’ RH: So no plans to do a song about Brexit then!? ES: No. I have my own views that I feel strongly about. But I’m a 26-year-old boy that does not really spend that much time watching the news or reading newspapers. Therefore my opinion is not as wellrounded and educated as it could be. So I’m keeping my mouth shut. But of course I f--king love being in Europe. It’s an amazing place. RH: The rumour was you postponed the release date of this album due to all the noise surrounding the Trump election though? ES: Yeah, well I mean it was not for one reason or another. It was just everyone’s attention was turned to one thing – if they agreed with it or they didn’t agree with it, they were more interested in watching that than they were in music at that time. So I just didn’t want to release to deaf ears, I guess.

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REDHANDED 27

“Fame is a weird thing”

RH: You've said about your girlfriend Cherry Seaborn that she's the first real love of your life. Is that right? ES: Yeah, I mean, it is the first time I’ve had time to put into anyone. I’d never been able to have a proper relationship. I’ve had a relationship with a messenger on my phone with someone who is 40,000 miles away or something. I spent every day of last year with her and almost every day since July the year before. Now going to do promo runs I just feel very secure, whereas before I didn’t really know if it was a relationship or not.

for Americans. Like when Americans come to England they go to London and they go, ‘Oh London was amazing’ but that’s not England, that’s London. So people are like, ‘How was Japan?’ And I’d be like, ‘Tokyo is amazing’ and there’d be like, ‘Tokyo is here but you’ve got the whole...’ So I wanted to see from the north to then very south. So Hokkaido to Okinawa over two months and it was incredible.

RH: Will she be coming with you on tour? ES: No, she has a job, she actually has a really good job. And do you know what? It’s not difficult to get to Berlin on a weekend if I’m on tour, or even to get to New York, it’s only six hours. If you fly on a Friday night you can have the whole of Saturday and then fly back on a Sunday. So it’s not out of the realms of possibility to see each other every weekend.

RH: Did you write any songs whilst away? ES: Yeah so before the year off I had Castle on the Hill, Perfect, Happier and How Would You Feel. So I had four tunes before the year off. And then I took six months travelling and six months making the album and that’s when all the other songs came out.

RH: You were friends at school. Did you have a crush on her then? ES: We kind of both had crushes on each other. But it’s a very innocent thing when you’re that age. RH: Did you kind of know you'd one day be together? ES: No not at all. It just happened. She was living in New York when I was living in New York as well. RH: You just took a whole year off. Where did you go? ES: I went to Japan. Japan is very much like England

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RH: Anywhere else? ES: Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Ghana, Liberia, Italy, Iceland and finished up in America. Did a bit there.

RH: And you wrote a track on the Queen Mary? ES: Yeah I wrote Happier on there. Well, I wrote half of it in New York and the rest of it on the Queen Mary. RH: It's quite bittersweet isn't it? About an ex? ES: Do you know what? It was actually written in a really good place. I got to a point I guess that all men do where you step back from something and see the perspective and you’re like, ‘I can’t offer what that guy can offer’ and ‘He definitely makes you more happy than I ever did so why would I try to interfere with that?’ I think all guys get to that point. Eventually. Ed Sheeran plays four sell-out nights at the Principality Stadium 21st to 24th June

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10/05/2018 13:19:54

SKA FACE

“After nearly 40 years, I believe 2-tone is the musical embodiment of multiculturalism.”

Two of Britain’s ﬁnest 2-Tone exports, The Selecter and The Beat featuring Ranking Roger will unite for a date at Caerphilly Castle, one of the most stunning venues in the world, on Friday 13th July. RedHanded catches up with the Selecter’s Pauline Black, for many the face, and voice, of Ska… RedHanded: It’s amazing to think the heyday of Ska, and when The Selecter first charted, is 40 odd years ago and yet it all still sounds fresh and vibrant. Why do you think that is? Pauline Black: In 1979 the 2-tone movement was a loose subculture of different youth tribes - skinheads, mods, punks, rude boys & rude girls, who all enjoyed a love of ska music. We came together to fight racism, sexism, economic inequality & homophobia with music that subtly, and sometimes not so subtly, addressed these issues at a time when most bands avoided such subject matter if they wanted to get their albums in the charts. We defied that ethos and for a period of time won over a lot of young people with our inclusive ideas about the society we lived in. After nearly 40 years, I believe 2-tone is the musical embodiment of multiculturalism. I still believe that a hybrid mix of ska/reggae/punk/ and rock & forthright lyrical content gives a voice to disaffected people everywhere. It’s why The Selecter is at home anywhere it plays, be it a punk show, a rock show or a reggae show. We embrace the subcultures & they embrace us. RH: What are your favourite memories from that period? PB: Packed out proper dance halls on the 2-tone tour with sweat running down the walls. And appearing on Top Of The Pops a good few times. RH: Do you think that a lot of the inspirations and themes, such as the gulf

between rich and poor and harsh government policies, from those days are still relevant? PB: The insular jingoistic pot has been stirred again in Britain, particularly with the latest attack on the Windrush generation and similarly in the USA with the gunning down of many innocent black people on the streets by the police or racist civilians. World leaders always like to blame society’s ills on those most recently arrived in their countries, or those who do not look the same as their majority population; indeed anything rather than their abhorrent, mostly violent, foreign policies. It’s a hollow ploy and historically has never won as a strategy. RH: What does the current set consist of – the big well-known hits interspersed with more recent material? PB: The Selecter will be performing 5 new tracks from our newest album ‘Daylight’ and a ‘selected selection’, embracing all the hits like ‘On My Radio’, ‘Too Much Pressure’, ‘Missing Words’ & ‘Three Minute Hero’. But most of all, audiences will experience a typically high energy show that aims to ‘tickle the brain cells as well as the soles of their feet’. RH: How has the band’s sound evolved over the last couple of decades? PB: We’ve always played 2-tone music, which emphasizes the offbeat in a 4/4 time signature. That gives the music an upful, danceable beat which is irresistibly infectious and causes much joy to break out whenever we perform. RH: It must be great fun playing with The Beat again – just like old times? PB: We’ve known The Beat since they first supported us in 1979 at a show in Birmingham. That is a long friendship, particularly in the ‘dog eat dog’ world of the music business. Mutual respect are our watchwords. RH: Are you all able to party as much as ever on stage and is that what fans can expect to see? PB: It’s still a high-energy show, just as much as it was 40 years ago. The only difference is that half the audience doesn’t end up dancing on stage with us for the encore like they did back in 1979. In some ways that’s a shame, but it means our equipment doesn’t get trashed on a regular basis. That was expensive. RH: Any chance of any collaborations or guest appearances from any of your other old Two Tone label mates? PB: Who knows?! RH: Does the Ska revival mean your acting career is on hold? And which do you prefer and why – acting or singing? PB: I now exclusively sing and write music. Although the film rights to my 2-tone memoir ‘Black By Design’ which I wrote a few years ago, has recently been optioned by Molimetro Films. So hopefully, whatever I learned as an actress will be passed on to whoever gets to play me in my younger days in the movie. Tickets for the gig on 13 July 2018 at Caerphilly Castle are available from Ticketmaster.co.uk and in person from Blackwood Miners’ Institute or by calling Ticketmaster Box Office on 0844 844 0444.

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SWEDE Photo © Asaf Kliger

SENSATIONS

Swedish Lapland. It’s a pretty unusual place at any time of year. But mid-summer when the sun never sets, it can all feel just a bit bonkers. I spent my first night here in a freezer with a couple of mermaids. I hoped we’d get on, but they were both cold as ice. After being given the cold shoulder, I guess it was hardly surprising I didn’t sleep that well. But it was one of those ‘once in a lifetime’ moments I’ll remember for a long, long time. After 28 years building a hotel full of shimmering sculptures of ethereal beasts and alien shapes from ice and snow each winter, Sweden’s Ice Hotel is justly world famous. Located 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, winters in Jukkasjärvi are long, dark and exceptionally cold. But in late spring it warms up; the hotel slowly melts into the river.

“The bed is on an icy platform reached by a cascade of stairs”

At least it used to. My night in an ice hotel room took place in mid-summer. Those clever Swedes have created a permanent ice hotel which opened last year. Now you can sleep in an ice room, whilst outside there’s sunlight all night as well as all day. This far north it hardly sets in summer. This being Sweden it’s high-tech and environmentally friendly. Joakim gives me a tour. “We’ve installed loads of solar panels. Basically they generate enough electricity to keep the complex at a steady - 5 degrees, even in the heat of summer,” he explains. We’re walking around a chilly warehouse stacked with vast blocks of ice. “We harvest the ice in spring when it’s at its hardest and store it to build next winter’s hotel in November.” I walk between 2700 tonnes of shimmering ice and check out a computerised drilling rig that churns out half a million ‘ice glasses’ for people to use in the Ice Bar. Before we go inside the hotel, we don space-aged white ponchos to keep us warm. It’s another world. The shimmering Ice Bar has a large window cascading light into the room. Fairy lights twinkle inside ice sculptures, walls and tables.

Ice hotels in mid-summer, moving a town several miles, dining on reindeer… just a few of the remarkable things that go on in Swedish Lapland. Jeremy Head gets his licence to chill

There are 20 rooms in the year-round ice hotel. Each is themed, created by sculptors from around

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“This part of Sweden just never stops surprising you” Photo © Johan Ylitalo

Photo © Jeremy Head

CRUCIAL INFO Scandinavian specialists Best Served Scandinavia (www.best-served.co.uk, 020 7664 2241) offer three nights at ICEHOTEL 365 from £795pp based on two sharing. Price includes return flights, transfers, one night in an ice room, two nights in a warm chalet, breakfasts, ICEHOTEL 365 tour, thermal clothing and morning sauna. Additional activities include: Midnight Sun tour: £95pp; Make Your Own Ice Sculpture: £85pp and a Jukkasjärvi Sauna ritual from £90 pp.

the world. One has a vast stag in it, another is full of huge shimmering jellyfish, in another the bed is on an icy platform reached by a cascade of stairs. There are clowns, there’s a library, there’s a maze: it’s pure fantasy, all made from ice. The ideal way to prepare for a night in an ice room? A 10-stage sauna ritual. I thwacked myself with birch branches, washed with tar soap, sweated buckets, jumped in the icy river and wallowed in an outdoor hot tub. Then I feasted on the Ice Menu which included delicate fish roe (served in an ice glass of course), salmon, smoky reindeer steak in juniper sauce and arctic raspberry sorbet. Well, there was no going back now. It was time to go to bed. Stashing my luggage in a locker in the main hotel, I picked up my ultra-thermal sleeping bag and headed to my room. It was called Mermaids Wrestling. Two eight-foot high mermaids with spiky hair, squared up across my bed, which was set on a glowing ice plinth with a mattress with a plastic cover and reindeer hides. Zipping the bag up felt claustrophobic, so to begin with I left it open slightly. That wasn’t a good idea. The chill began to eat into my bones and I had to zip it right up. It was literally freezing. The air felt clammy. I was glad I’d brought a hat. With the light off it was pitch black, utterly silent. It took me a while to sleep. But I did, to wake with a start as someone kindly brought in a cup of hot lingonberry juice. The mermaids looked down impassively as I sipped. They still looked very pissed off with each other. Honestly, why couldn’t they just chill out?

Photo © Asaf Kliger

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I stepped blinking out into morning sunlight. My god it felt warm after the freezing temperature during the night. Most guests come to the Ice Hotel for several nights, but only spend one in an ice room. After a

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seriously big breakfast and several hours thawing out in the sauna, I checked into my log cabin room for my second night at Jukkasjärvi. I was back in the ice hotel later that day however. If you fancy trying your hand at ice sculpting there are regular classes, conveniently held right next to the bar area so all the curious visitors can watch you make a hash of it. Mikaela set me up with a big chunk of the stuff on a plinth and a whole toolbox of gleamingly sharp chisels. “Be very careful not to cut yourself!” she said sweetly. They sliced through the ice with surprising ease. Initial plans to create a heart shape had to be swiftly abandoned when I realised I’d chopped too much off one side. My final creation looked like a huge almond with a hole through the middle. “That’s one of the best we’ve seen anyone do in ages!” said Mikaela. Sarcasm is clearly not lost on the Swedes, but I was actually quite pleased with my creation. After my rather sleepless night with the mermaids you might imagine I’d be hitting the sack early. But no, here in the land of the midnight sun people stay up until all hours. So instead I went for a hike to the top of a hill above Jukkasjärvi to watch the sunset at around midnight. Thankfully Julia had brought a flask of coffee with us otherwise I’m not sure I’d have seen it. This part of Sweden just never stops surprising you. The town owes its prosperity to an iron ore mine. We could clearly see it across the valley. The seam of iron is exceptionally pure, but unfortunately it runs right under the current town. So they’re going to move it several miles. Over the next couple of decades they will move 5000 homes, municipal buildings and a historic church. “They still haven’t quite worked out how they will move the church,” chuckled Julia. If they can keep an ice hotel frozen in summer, I’m sure they’ll find a way.

When you think of visiting a cocktail bar what do you expect? If it’s outstanding service, excellent entertainment and fantastic cocktails then you’re exactly right. As one of Cardiﬀ’s longest running cocktail bars, we’ve worked extremely hard to gain our reputation for excellence.

Don’t take our word for it, pop in and discover why Mocka Lounge is loved and remembered by all who visit! For table reservations please contact us on... Tel: 02920 221292 www.mockalounge.com 1 Mill Lane Cardiﬀ CF10 1FL

info@mockalounge.com

BAR OF THE YEAR AWARD 2018

Welcome to Etc, the unique, one of a kind restaurant and cocktail bar, set in the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan’s attractive seaside town, Penarth. For table reservations please contact us on... t: 029 2009 0060 e: enquiries@etc-penarth.com www.etc-penarth.com 1 Royal Buildings, Stanwell Road, Penarth, CF64 3EB

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Space For Living When thinking about design in our homes, we naturally tend to concentrate on appearance. Increasingly however, interior designers are shifting the emphasis to satisfying fundamental human needs, whether that be stress-busting, health and fitness, socialising or helpful technology. Inspiration seems to come from all sorts of quirky places: five-star hotels, nature and even spaceships! Jake Young reports.

all be used simultaneously and a reservoir that can be manually filled or hooked up to the water supply. As you start cooking the heat turns the water into steam and fans spread the heat around to ensure your food is cooked evenly and quickly. Greasy, dry, flavourless and occasionally overcooked meals from regular ovens will be a thing of the past as a steam oven locks in moisture, retains more vitamins and minerals and guarantees you are getting the best from your food. Whether you are already into health food or you are looking to make a switch to healthier eating, the versatile steam oven is the ideal kitchen appliance for a clean-living lifestyle. Where to buy: Space Fitting Furniture (02920455778; www.spacefittingfurniture.co.uk)

Turn your kitchen into a trendy social spot for friends and family.

Give your home the five-star treatment Our daily lives are full of numerous sources of stress but very few of us can fork out on regular trips to luxury spas. Which is why interior designers are bringing relaxation back into the home in a big and more affordable way. So, in an effort to replicate that five-star experience, interior designers are giving our bathrooms luxury hotel makeovers to create your own personal sanctuary. BC Designs’ bathrooms look great being precision crafted with high gloss finishes, titanium steel enamel and stylish, innovative shower head and bath jets. These simple and durable designs give a light and uplifting feeling – ideal for soaking away your stresses. Combine them with a hydro massage shower and a jacuzzi bath and you’ll feel like royalty in your own home.

It doesn’t have to be all white, sleek and one textured. As kitchens increasingly become the social hub of the home, interior designers are turning them into homelier areas. Whether it be sharing in the food you’ve made or stories from the weekend, people are spending more time in their kitchens than they are in their living rooms. But not all the comforts of the living room are lost. Multi-textured kitchens from Beeck and more rustic and shaker looks from Laura Ashley, can bring the snug, cosy atmosphere appeal of the lounge to your eating space. By combining finished oak woods with coated polished enamels you’ll get a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s still got all the creature comforts of modern day kitchen designs too, like built-in fridges hidden by lush wood cabinets, integrated dishwashers and under-cabinet lighting. Created by family-run stylists, these kitchens will make your friends and family feel right at home. Where to buy: Smarta Kitchens (02920 006588; thinksmarta.co.uk)

Where to buy: Cardiff Bathroom Centre (02920 340 861; www.cardiffbathroomcentre.com)

Healthy living: turn your home into your own personal health hub Quick and unhealthy food is fast becoming a major problem. Healthy eating is often seen as time consuming, difficult and even thought to be less tasty despite the emergence of alternate food diets like vegan and a recently developed desire for cleaner eating. But there is an alternative. Steam ovens are convenient and make it possible to eat healthily and enjoy better-tasting food. In stainless steel or black, the Miele Combi steam oven removes all the guesswork when it comes to cooking and combines the qualities of a regular oven with the upgrades of the convectional steam oven. It has up to four cooking levels that can

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14/05/2018 00:05:21

Give your rooms a sophisticated, yet cosy charm. Dark woods, such as stained oak or mahogany, may not sound all that revolutionary but if you’re looking for a classy but cosy vibe they’re the way to go. Whether it’s for a personal library, a trophy case, a home office or just to add warmth and a touch of modern elegance, darker woods are making a significant impact on this year’s interior design trends. When combined with warm coloured soft furnishings these mood enhancing, natural but stylish woods are the finish of choice for a snug yet refined look. It’s a style that presents a modern luxury appeal with a homely aesthetic by merging natural, textured woods and elegant metallic handles, polished edges and a smooth authenticity to give a contemporary identity. A good example is the Storage Air cabinet in carbone oak, manufactured by Porro. Whether it’s an open shelf look, a corner cabinet or a walk-in wardrobe, they create airy, open storage that makes your home feel seamless. Equally dark stained oak desks make for dignified and attention-grabbing spaces. The Pecs desk by Cassina has a formal elegance that mixes voids with thick solid wood to create a desk that feels as though it was built to fit you. Supplement these with sofas from B&B Italia, a family of innovative padded furniture with timeless aesthetics and functional charm. They are available in a number of neutral or warm colours designed to create restful areas that suit both the space available and personal taste. Where to buy: Momentum (02920 236 266; www.momentumcardiff.com)

you greater control over your comfort by giving you command over numerous devices in your home, all at your fingertips at any given moment. Additionally, a home automation system can have different programmes installed, there’s a security feature which is great for watching over your hyper child in the room upstairs or if you just want to lock your car door from your sofa on a rainy night. It’s an exciting piece of equipment that is simple, efficient and redefines modern living standards. Where to buy: Smarta Technology (02920 006588; thinksmarta.co.uk)

Or keep your feet firmly on the ground and create that cosy log cabin feeling. Connecting to your home and feeling a deeper bond with your living space is not just achieved with technology. Interior designers have recognised that a more traditional appeal is a great way to achieve what the Scandinavians call ‘Hygge’, a deep feeling of cosiness and content. Handcrafted furniture made from wicker or rattan for indoors or outdoors add a naturalistic and mother earth feel to your home. Chairs, sofas and cabinets are among the numerous different products made in this way but there are plenty of designs of varying styles of woods to choose from to make every single item uniquely special. The Dante 2-seater outdoor sofa does exactly that, its wicker material gives you a natural finish but with a metal frame for durability, topped with soft fabric cushioning it’s an ideal fit for the picturesque garden lounging space. For indoors, the Kettler LaMode lounge chair, made from rattan is a simple but striking piece. Placing you at the centre of an inviting and tranquil home environment, the artisan woodland aesthetic of these products still manages to produce a striking and wholesome quality to your house. This furniture is the perfect way to release your stresses in a homelier and peaceful environment and get in touch with mother nature.

Where to buy: John Lewis (03456 049 049; www.johnlewis.com)

Turn your home into a space-age command centre. Technology is advancing rapidly and we are all increasingly connected. Interior designers are taking note and advancing our home space, ensuring they develop as technology does. You’ve already seen the virtual assistants of Alexa and such, but also within reach are command consoles with lighting control, oven control, tv control, smartphone/remote locator and much, much more, paving the way for this new step in interior design. Home automation is the final frontier in modern day comfort, which is why the multi-room audio-visual system from Smarta is merging technology with our living spaces. Not only does it add a science-fiction quality but also gives

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SAT

26 MAY

SAT

26 MAY

SUN

27 MAY

TONY CHRISTIE

PALOMA FAITH

The Gates Arts Centre, Cardiff

Recreation Ground, Bath

ROBERT PLANT

& THE SENSATIONAL SPACESHIFTERS

THU JUN

WED

11 JUL

NICK HEYWARD

BURT BACHARACH

SAT

The Globe, Cardiff

JUL

Komedia Bath

The New Theatre, Oxford

SUN JUL

FRI

NOV

PETE TONG Cardiff Castle

UT SOLD O

CATFISH & THE BOTTLEMEN UT Cardiff Castle

SOLD O

GOGO PENGUIN

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama

Recreation Ground, Bath

SAT

16 JUN

THE LEVELLERS Caerphilly Castle

SAT

14 JUL

A L L T I C K E TS AVAILABLE FROM

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THUNDER

Caerphilly Castle

UT SOLD O

ORCHARDENTERTAINMENT.CO.UK | TICKETMASTER.CO.UK

09/05/2018 16:08

FASHION

PARK LIFE Joe Glen Dust 713Jeans - £55 Basic Baseball Cap - £18 Basic Polo Shirt - £18 Alvin Jacket - £40 Jack & Jones

PHOTOS BY MEI LEWIS

Liz Rose Pam Shorts - £78 Nadia Tee - £48 Aleida Blazer - £128 All Saints Inset: 18ct white gold ‘Anna’ diamond pendant - £5,485 Laings Jeweller

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FASHION

Joe Rick Original Shorts - £25 Button-down Summer Shirt - £35 Steven Blazer - £75 Cleo Sunglasses - £15 Jack & Jones Below: Omega Seamaster Aquaterra - £4,000 Laings Jeweller

Joe Glenn Felix 667 Jeans - £60 Bell Tee - £12 Jack & Jones

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FASHION Right Liz Palma Polka Dress - £168 All Saints Lower centre Liz Mina Buttercup Dress - £168 All Saints

Inset (top to bottom) 18ct rose gold ‘Esme’ diamond bangle - £5,850 18ct rose gold morganite and diamond pendant - £1,050 Chopard 18ct rose gold Happy Hearts pendant - £1,950 All Laings Jeweller

Joe Liam 502 Jeans - £50 Boshof Tee - £15 Chevron Sweat - £30 Grand Bomber Jacket - £30 Jack & Jones

Above left Joe Athletic Tour Crew - £45 Superdry Stadium Short - £40 Superdry Cartier Diver - £6,800 Laings Jeweller

Liz SD Sport Crop Hood - £50 SD Sport Printed Leggings - £35 Drawstring Bag - £15 SD Sport Fitted Vest - £30 Superdry

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FASHION

Liz Hot Biker Jacket - £80 Eliza Cut-off Shorts - £30 Delwen Cross Body Bag - £30 Radical Boyfriend Tee - £27 Splatter Pink Crew - £45 Superdry Tag Heuer Link - £1,350 Laings Jeweller

Top Liz Colour Block Cagoule - £65 Ivy Badged Montana Rucksack - £60 Harper Boyfriend Jean - £55 Strappy Bodysuit - £20 Superdry

Above Liz Alice Knot Dress - £45 Longline Denim Jacket - £70 Vintage Logo CL Wash Cap - £15 Superdry Joe Orange Label Vintage EMB Vest - £15 Homestead Shirt - £40 Int’l Sunscorched Chino Short - £40 Superdry

IWC Tribute Ltd Edition £3,890 Laings Jeweller

Credits: Thanks to our models Joe and Liz (Courtesy of Miss Wales 2018). Clothes supplied by Jack & Jones, All Saints and Superdry, St David’s Centre, Cardiff. Watches and jewellery supplied by Laings Jeweller, St David’s Centre, 27 The Hayes, Cardiff, CF10 1GA. Tel: 02920 660 890.

Cartier Diver - £6,800 Laings Jeweller

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Joe Icarus Tee - £25 Rookie Deck Jacket - £85 Core Lite Rip Stop Pant - £55 Superdry

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Anatoniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Cardiff â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first traditional Neopolitan Pizzeria Unit 6,The Globe Centre, Wellfield Rd, Cardiff CF24 3PE 029 2049 5975 Anatoni's_ad_v2.indd 1

13/05/2018 23:53:40

CAPITAL Cardiff. Caerdydd. The ‘Diff. We know our mighty capital has been the scene for many great sporting and musical triumphs, but this summer is set to be ground breaking. Ed Sheeran will play to a staggering 300,000 people at the Principality with Beyonce and the Rolling Stones also rocking up, whilst cricket fans will descend on Sophia Gardens for two Internationals with England playing Australia in a One-Day International in June, before going up against India in an IT20 in July. There is also the small matter of the Volvo Ocean Race, the world’s toughest endurance yacht race which, accompanied by a two week long festival of food, entertainment and boats, floats into Cardiff Bay at the end of May. So, aside from world-class sporting drama and music megastars, what else does Cardiff have to offer? Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned Cardiffian, we’ve drawn up a handy guide on the best places to eat, drink, shop and play.

EATING

Pitch - Mill Lane A Mill Lane favourite, Pitch is the destination for alfresco diners in the summer months. Fear not, there’s plenty of warmth inside this classy Cardiff eatery. Owner Ben Browne sources all his produce locally so expect some top beef and lamb cuts. However, the fresh mussels from Pembrokeshire are our personal favourite. Call: 029 2022 8882 Web: pitchcardiff.com Facebook: pitchcardiff3 Twitter: @pitchcardiff Troy - City Road In a survey by The Times, Troy Restaurant was ranked as one of the top five kebab restaurants in the UK. The meat is cooked over an open ‘Ocakbashi’ charcoal pit, not vertically rotating on a spike. Throw in some tasty meze dishes and aromatic breads and this is anything but a stop-off for the late night boozing brigade, it’s a real Turkish delight. Call: 029 20499 339 Web: troymezebar.com Facebook: Troy-Meze-Bar Twitter: @troymezebar Anatoni’s - Wellﬁeld Road Originally located in Lakeside, Wales’ only genuine Neopolitan pizzeria, Anatoni’s has recently reopened on Wellfield Road to the delight of both new and existing customers. If you want an amazing, genuine Neopolitan pizza experience, as laid down by EU protected status, Anatoni’s is the place to go. Call: 029 2049 5975 Seren Diemwnt – High Street, Llandaﬀ This gem (the name is Welsh for Diamond Star), despite being relatively new, has already won Cardiff restaurant of the year at the Food Awards Wales thanks to its winning combination of imagination, cooking finesse and high quality Welsh ingredients. And if you want to hear some Welsh, half the staff are fluent. Call: 029 2056 4646 Website: seren-diemwnt.com Facebook: SerenDiemwntCDF Twitter: @SerenDiemwntCDF

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Etc Penarth - Stanwell Road, Penarth Etc Penarth is a great fusion of style and taste. Part cocktail bar and part restaurant, Etc Penarth is all about providing a high-end gastronomic experience. We recommend going all out and trying the sensational 5 course Chef ’s Tasting Menu. Call: 029 2009 0060 Web: etc-penarth.com Twitter: @etc_penarth

The Red Lion - Pendoylan, Vale of Glamorgan Situated in the chocolate box village of Pendoylan, The Red Lion is a picture postcard 17th century gastropub and restaurant that has been the focal point of the of the local community for most of its existence. Owners Carmella, Mark and Holly took over a couple of years ago, giving the public house a refurb along with a completely new, Welsh sourced menu. Call: 01446 760690 Web: redlionatpendoylan.co.uk Facebook: RedLionPendoylan Twitter: @_TheRedLion_

Mezza Luna – City Road Also situated on City Road’s middle-eastern hub, Mezza Luna offers an exotic Lebanese and Moroccan take on the region’s cuisine, with a healthy selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Not to be missed is the ornate décor and the belly dancer on a Friday and Saturday night – the only place in Cardiff where you’ll find one. Call: 029 2047 2772 Web: mezzalunacardiff.co.uk Facebook: MezzaLunaRestaurantCardiff Twitter: @MezzaLunaCdf

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13/05/2018 23:55:53

STUFF! Pier 64 – Penarth Marina Pier 64 is the place to go for a steak. They do an awful lot more, and they do it well, but their steaks are in a different league (which is a clue to Pier 64’s well-known owner). Furthermore, you can take in the view over the marina, or better still if the weather’s clement, sit out on the balcony as you enjoy your meal. Call: 029 2009 0060 Web: etc-penarth.com Twitter: @etc_penarth

Chapter Arts Centre - Market Road One of Cardiff ’s most revered cultural institutions, Chapter has been serving art, cinema, comedy and a lot more in between for more than forty years. There’s also much to admire on the food and drink front with a wide-ringing menu and regular beer and cider festivals. Call: 029 203 0400 Web: chapter.org Facebook: chapterarts Twitter: @chaptertweets

SHOPPING

Park House Restaurant – Park Place A winning combination of stunning food and a jaw-dropping building, the Park House Restaurant is located in a Grade 2 listed townhouse designed William Burges for the Marquess of Bute and boasts a chef with a Michelin star pedigree (having worked at George Le Cinq in Paris). It also has one of the best wine lists in the world. If you really want to impress your nearest and dearest, this is your destination. Call: 029 2022 4343 Website: www.parkhouserestaurant.co.uk Facebook: ParkHouseCardiff Twitter: @PH_Restaurant

Castle Fine Art - St David’s Shopping Centre Castle Fine Art features original and limited edition fine art from the country’s most innovative and talented artists. Whether you’ve yet to acquire your first piece of art, or are lucky enough to already own a growing collection of work, Castle Fine Art is a welcoming, inspiring and exciting gallery space. Call: 02922 130 100 Web: castlegalleries.com/galleries/ castle-galleries-cardiff Facebook: castlegalleries Twitter: @castlegalleries Laings – St David’s Shopping Centre They say you can tell a lot about a person by the watch they wear. Well, if you see one of your friends modelling a timepiece from Laings Jeweller, you know they’re doing pretty well for themselves. This is a showroom that’s laced with high-end brands (Cartier, Oemga and IWC), expert customer service and an exclusively that marks it out from its competitors. Call: 029 2066 0890 web: www.laingsuk.com Facebook: LaingsJewellers Twitter: @LaingsJewellers

PLAYING DRINKING

Mocka – Mill Lane Fancy some stunning cocktails in award-winning surroundings? Mocka, has been the favoured watering hole for Cardiff glitterati for some time with good reason. Book a masterclass with one of the resident mixologists and create your own cocktails (or just sit back and let the experts show you how it’s done). Call: 029 2022 1292 Web: mockalounge.co.uk Facebook: MockaLounge Twitter: @MockaLounge

Cardiﬀ International White Water - Watkiss Way Located in the heart of the International Sports Village in Cardiff Bay, Cardiff International White Water is the place to go if you’re looking for high-octane water sports. Get a few mates together and hurl yourself into white water rafting. If you’d prefer to ride solo, step on a board and surf on the awesome indoor FlowRider. Call: 029 203 0400 Web: ciww.com Facebook: cardiffintww Twitter: @cardiffintww Tee It Up - Havannah Street Tee It Up is Cardiff ’s first indoor golf simulation centre. Pretend you’re on the pro tour and choose one of forty championship courses from across the world. If you’re game isn’t in the best shape, book on for some lessons or, failing that, enjoy some post-game food and drink in the fully licensed bar. Call: 029 2048 9768 Web: teeitupgolf.co.uk Facebook: teeitupgolfcardiff Twitter: @teeitupcardiff

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REDHANDED 45 13/05/2018 23:56:56

ONE BRAND, ONE FAMILY FROM PARKHOUSE TO LAINGS

LIFESTYLE

Laings, formerly known as Parkhouse, has a sparkling history that dates all the way back to 1840 when the family-owned business was founded in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City. Brothers James and William Laing established the family wholesale and manufacturing business and they began by supplying the revered Clyde-built vessels, which traversed all corners of the globe, with Glasgow-made crockery, silverware and optical and precision instruments. Laings is still in family-hands with the sixth generation of the Laing family at the helm. Over the years Laings built up their expertise and by the 1960’s was established as a destination for luxury jewellery and watches. Huge crowds flocked to their windows in Glasgow which displayed luxury watches sharing a tank with real fish. They also worked on presenting jewellery and watches in a captivating atmosphere and in 1991 they introduced the first ever Watch Gallery and, at the time, the only Ring Room in Glasgow. They also built relationships with the top

FASHIONISTA

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Ted Baker Blue Dress- WomensRRP £149 Outlet £99

brands in luxury watches, including Omega, Cartier and IWC, as well as creating bespoke collections of diamond jewellery. Laings expanded into England for the first time in 1995, purchasing Parkhouse and bringing the two luxury jewellers together. In 2005 the family business was split between brothers, Stuart and Michael Laing, trading as Laings of Glasgow and Laing Edinburgh, Parkhouse Southampton and Cardiff. In 2017 the family business came back together and is now known as Laings. Laings is now one of the largest independent jewellery companies, with seven stores in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Southampton, as well as a prominent online presence. They are one brand and one family business. Laings Jeweller, 27 The Hayes, St David’s Centre, Cardiff CF10 1GA. Tel: 029 2066 0890. www.laingsuk.com

THE PERFECT TREAT AT STRADEY PARK HOTEL & SPA

Gentleman’s Tea Due to the incredible popularity of their afternoon tea, which offers dainty finger sandwiches and a selection of cakes all served on fine china, Stradey Park Hotel have announced a more male focussed option, with heartier menu options. Their chefs were sent on a mission to forage the wilds of Carmarthenshire in search of the finest ingredients to be used in preparing the smorgasbord of deliciousness that is the Stradey’s gentleman’s tea. For an extra £19 you can opt for ‘The Business’ which also includes a hot towel shave, haircut and nasal wax. Despite being called Gentleman’s tea, ladies are more than welcome to savour it (though you may want to hold off on the shave and nasal wax). In fact, they’ve had as many women ordering the Gentleman’s Tea as men. Only £15.95 per person Award winning Parc Spa They also have the perfect day spa package for all men who wish to ‘take time out’ called Gentleman’s Time. Soothe away those aches and pains with a deep tissue massage, then to cap a great experience refuel with a gentleman’s tea. This package includes, a 25 minute deep tissue massage, use of the Hydrotherapy Suite & Relaxation Rooms and a delicious Gentleman’s tea. Only £55 per person Treat your dad this Father’s Day (Sunday 18th June) Spoil your dad with a mouth-watering 3 course carvery lunch within Samphires Restaurant. Dad’s will also receive a free pint on us to celebrate their special day. Only £20 per person (½ for children)

Lacoste Green Polo- MensRRP £50- Outlet £16

Ted Baker Bomber Jacket- MensRRP £199- Outlet £119

To book any of these great mens’ packages, contact 01554 758171 or email reservations@stradeyparkhotel.com

Sunglass Hut RRP £319- Outlet £214

Kurt Geiger Blue Court Shoe- FemaleRRP £130 Outlet £49

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Kurt Geiger Brogues- MensRRP £99- Outlet £59

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13/05/2018 23:44:07

RISING STAR

For a restaurant that’s less than a year old, Seren Diemwnt is creating quite a reputation for itself. So much so that it’s recently won Cardiff Restaurant of the Year at the prestigious Food Awards Wales 2018. Head Chef and owner Gethin Rees, has been a chef since he was seventeen and has a background helping venues achieve Michelin Star status. He puts his success down to a driving ambition to follow his dream and a deep-seated passion for food: “I opened Seren Diemwnt in September 2017 after many years of following a dream and aim of opening my own venue. We have been using fresh ingredients and local produce from day one and changing our menus monthly to grow a business and a dream.” “My passion for food comes from someone important I lost at a young age and my family who push me forward and inspire me every day to meet my goals and aims.” I enjoy being able to have the freedom to follow my heart and thoughts to create great food and most of all to present the dishes with passion and flair. I enjoy being adventurous with different seasonal ingredients to create tantalising food with imagination to keep pushing myself to new limits. A dream of mine was always to own my own venue and produce beautiful fresh food.”

LIFESTYLE

Dishes at Seren Diemwnt look amazing; more art, than food. So much so, it’s a shame to eat them. But, eat them you must to experience their flavour sensations – the goats’ curd red pepper tuilles and lemon herb crumb and the nut crusted Lamb cannon with orange and lamb source are dishes Gethin’s particularly proud of. As one would expect of a restaurant with a Welsh name, most of the produce is Welsh. As well as the meats, which come from Vin Sullivan and Castell Howell, Seren Diemwnt offers a selection of local beers, wines and spirits such as Pipes beer and Glyndwr wines, along with coffee from Cardiff ’s Uncommon Ground. Not only that, but if you want to conduct your entire evening in our native language, you’ll be able to do so as half of the staff speak Welsh. Despite the gastronomical approach, Gethin is proud of the fact that prices are very reasonable as he wants as many people as possible from all walks of life to be able to experience this high standard of cuisine. This says a lot about the man and his restaurant. Seren Diemwnt, 48 High St, Cardiff CF5 2DZ. Tel. 029 2056 4646 www.seren-diemwnt.com

ETC, ETC, ETC… We love Etc.. There’s nowhere quite like it in and around Cardiff and the Vale. In an age where it’s all about dressing down and being hipster ‘cool’, Etc is pure, stylish fun. On the one hand it harks back to a bygone period of glamour and style. The décor is inspired by Art Deco 1920’s Paris and it’s quite possible to imagine yourself in an intimate salon bar on an ocean-going liner of the same period while sat in Etc… It’s one of those rare places where you can dress-up – dust down the party frock or lounge suit and ‘put on the Ritz’ or dress casual.

office processes, the food menu and drinks offering. She’s also introduced even more events – a big favourite right now being the joyous Motown night on Thursdays.

On the other, the menus – both food and drinks – are thoroughly modern. There’s a great selection of champagnes and prosecco available from the recently improved bar that also boasts shelf after shelf of gins and other spirits plus an awesome range of cocktails. And the food is great too. The exuberant fun of Steve Gomes’ original menu, with its smoke and sense of theatre, continues. It tastes amazing thanks to excellent ingredients and imaginative dishes that are expertly prepared and presented.

Etc… Royal Buildings, 1, Stanwell Rd, Penarth CF64 3EA. Tel. 029 2009 0060 www.etc-penarth.com

What it means to customers is the sense of fun and style is as great as it’s ever been but there’s an even better range of spirits (particularly gins) to choose from, a seamless front of house experience, an even better food experience and great events. Etc… goes from strength to strength.

New owner Konsa Micallef, came on board towards the end of 2017, attracted by Etc…’s glamorous allure and potential to evolve further. Thankfully, she’s kept the essence the same, using her long experience in hospitality to fine-tune and improve service, back

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REDHANDED 47 13/05/2018 23:49:05

LIFESTYLE

MORE #FAKENEWS

The hugely popular Art Car Bootique will be returning to Chapter Arts Centre on Sunday 27 May, and this year, the event’s theme is #FakeNews – think truth, lies, fiction, x-files, news and broadcasting, facts, stats and conspiracies, say the organisers! Established in 2011 by Chapter and Something Creatives, the Art Car Bootique is an eclectic and eccentric mix of artist projects and performances, live music, delicious street food and vintage fashion, celebrating the very best of South Wales’ creative community. From midday until 6pm, Chapter’s car park is transformed into a psychedelic village fete, jam-packed with over 70 pitches to explore and enjoy, with live music and performances on stage. This year’s line up of artists and stall holders includes Flossy & Boo, Rhod, Elysium, CCQ, Megan Winstone

& James Cocks, Guest Who, Printhaus, G39, Galerie Simpson, Rachel Helena Walsh, Twin Made, Vino Veritas Van, Joseff Badman, Head Over Heels Vintage, Eagle Eye Vintage, Dylan’s Mobile Book Store, Dirty Vintage, Kooki Two Bit, Vintage Mix, Jemma Roper, Baked by Lou, Jo.o Pequito, Dizzy Pineapple, In Rainbows, Nelly’s Treasures, Ellymental, Anna Palamar, Bonnie Designs, Mr & Mrs Clark, Lumin Journal, Cardiff Artspace, Made in Roath, Fourty9th, Jackie Chan’s North Circular (Hendon) Lock Up of Mops, Ffwrnes Pizza, Tukka Tuk, MILGI, Spit & Sawdust, Puckin Poutine, Fritti Italian, Chapter Picnic and Middle Eastern BBQ, a Chapter Prosecco Bar and more to be confirmed.

Do you dream of drinking cocktails on your own private terrace looking out to sea? Enjoy unrivalled views of Penarth Marina and Cardiff Bay from the comfort of your own rooftop terrace with a home at Crest Nicholson’s Penarth Heights. Recently shortlisted at the Housebuilder Awards 2017, this final phase of contemporary homes is ideally located just a short distance from Penarth’s thriving town centre. The three/four-bedroom Panache is part of Crest Nicholson’s premier collection at Penarth Heights. Spread over three floors with an open-plan kitchen and dining room, this is the perfect family home in this sought-after area of Cardiff. Views of Cardiff Bay are never in short supply at The Panache, as this luxurious home features a roof terrace that is ideal for enjoying sunset drinks and with friends and family. This beautiful home also offers three bedrooms, two with en-suite bathrooms, and an option for a fourth bedroom or study area. Residents can enjoy stunning views of Cardiff Bay every morning and evening from the comfort of their bed through the bedrooms’ large feature windows.

Haven’t sold your existing home? Not a problem, let Crest Nicholson take the stress out of moving with our VIP Part Exchange scheme*. With VIP Part Exchange, Crest Nicholson becomes your chain-free cash buyer. Your will receive regular updates and professional guidance every step of the way, and Crest Nicholson will even cover the cost of removals and estate agents fees. The picturesque town of Penarth was recently voted as one of the “Best places to live in Wales” by The Sunday Times. Superb leisure facilities and an array of excellent schools and charming boutiques make Penarth the ideal town for families. With its pleasure pier and idyllic walks in one of the region’s wildlife havens, Cosmeston Country Park, Penarth is ideal for outdoor living too. The three and four bedroom homes are available from £599,000. Crest Nicholson’s Sales and Marketing Suite and Show Home is open daily between 10am and 5pm. For more info, please call 02920 020247, email penarthheights@crestnicholson. com or visit www.crestnicholson.com/penarthheights.

There’s a typically diverse and action-packed programme coming up at St David’s Hall with everything from superb stand-up comedy, dazzling dancing and evenings with intrepid explorers! If you’re up for a laugh, the National Concert Hall of Wales is the place to be. Affable Scouser Paul Smith (Sun 24 June) brings his Hello Mate tour to Cardiff, whilst panel show favourite Chris Ramsey (Thurs 12 July) is Just Happy to Get Out of the House! The ever-popular Dave Gorman (Sat 15 – Sun 16 Sept) is back with a double-header of dates in the autumn, and genial Geordie Ross Noble (Weds 3 Oct) pops in via his mysterious alter-ego El Hablador! Yet, if you’re after some high-brow humour, you’ll love an evening with the endearing BBC Radio 4 personality and author, David Sedaris (Tues 10 July). Equally fascinating with tales of their extraordinary experiences are Ant Middleton (Fri 31 Aug) and Simon Reeve (Thurs 20 Sept), whilst much-loved TV presenter and archaeologist Neil Oliver (Thurs 18 Oct) explores The Story of the British Isles in 100 Places. There’s the usual offering of captivating classical music too as the prestigious International Concert Series

comes to an epic finale with the Würth Philharmonic Orchestra (Sun 10 June). Likewise, Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra (Sun 17 June) close their 2017/18 season in style with a powerful performance of Mahler Symphony No 3. If rock is more your thing though, why not play the guitar with Ziggy in the Bowie Experience (Sat 6 Oct)? Elsewhere, former Bowie collaborator Robert Fripp performs with iconic prog-rockers King Crimson (Weds 31 Oct). Plus, legendary Scottish siblings The Proclaimers (Weds 10 Oct) celebrate the 30th anniversary of their classic album Sunshine on Leith. Strictly fans are in for a treat as well with beloved ballroom couple Kevin & Karen (Sun 8 July). Last year, Alexandra Burke (Mon 17 Sept) reached the final of the popular dancing programme, and now the 2008 X Factor winner belts out new tracks and old favourites in support of her stunning new album The Truth Is.

ROOM WITH A VIEW

HALL TOGETHER NOW

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For more information visit www.chapter.org

Whatever you choose, you can’t lose at St David’s Hall! www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk for info and tickets.

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14/05/2018 00:08:19

SWEETNESS AND LIGHT

Nigel Humphries is an awardwinning UK artist who has steadily built a reputation for producing oil paintings of modern and retro sweets, chocolates and toys.

LIFESTYLE

it was great fun to do the doubles as it allowed me to introduce some bad guys into the scenario which helped create a bit of narrative within the piece. ‘’I always have the seed of an idea before I begin. First, I doodle and do several quick thumbnail sketches to determine the best overall composition. I then go on to flesh out the design in greater detail. ‘’Whilst some of the paper backgrounds look simple, they can sometimes be the most challenging element to create. I see them as the equivalent of a stage set. The white paper allows the characters to stand out. ‘’I thoroughly enjoyed painting these pieces and watching the characters come to life. It’s a real privilege to spend my days doing something that I absolutely love.’’

Intensely detailed with a light hearted feel, Nigel’s work is inspired by comic books, movies, soundtracks, music and all things nostalgic. His unique approach stems from years spent devouring the art of others in order to form a style that, in his own words, is ‘’traditional, but with a quirky element’’. Nigel hopes to spread happiness through his work. ‘’Although I love doing the single figure paintings,

ROCK, PAPER, STEEL

“I’m more than excited to make my way up that mountain road and see everyone at Steelhouse Festival again. I’ll get to see my good friends Glenn Hughes and Dan Reed. And don’t worry, I’m bringing the sun!” So said Myles Kennedy and we couldn’t have put it better. Wales’ classic rock festival returns to Ebbw Vale 28-29 July with a stellar line-up also including Black Star Riders, the Dead Dasies, Wildhearts, Phil Taylor (ex Motorhead) and Glenn Hughes.

It may be more family oriented than ever (with great facilities for kids such as climbing walls), with a location to die for (literally on top of a mountain with far-reaching views across south Wales) with great facilities (especially the camping and food) but first and foremost, it’s all about rocking out. As Black Star Riders’ Ricky Warwick said, “Bring YOUR rock n roll, because we will be bringing OURS”. And no one rocks out better than legendary Trapeze, Deep Purple and Sabbath frontman Glenn Hughes: ‘‘It will be incredible to get out there and play tracks like Burn, Mistreated, Stormbringer and Getting Tighter, as well as some of those older songs that helped define the genre. With this band, I can assure you of a concert that’ll blow your mind.” The man himself said before adding, ‘I’m really looking forward to this…Come see me up the Mountain… Peace, love and remember, music is The Healer’.

Nigel’s pint-sized superheroes charmed the directors, gallery staff and visitors at Castle Fine Art’s Summer Exhibition in 2016. All of his original pieces sold out, and he was swiftly offered a publishing agreement by Washington Green, he has delighted collectors ever since. Castle Fine Art will be releasing five brand new boutique limited edition prints this spring. For further details please head to Castle Fine Art gallery in St David’s Centre, Cardiff or visit castlegalleries.com

Promoters Mikey Evans and Max Rhead explained, “Growing up in 80’s Ebbw Vale, absorbing all the rock music we could, listening to handed down LPs and saving our pennies for a Saturday binge at the local ‘Record Centre’, a game-changing piece of tech hardware, the video recorder arrived and brought with it the possibility of seeing our heroes in glorious moving technicolour as well as hearing them. Our local video outlet had Deep Purple’s appearance at Cal-Jam, 1974, a concert so legendary and so exotic that it may as well have taken place on Mars. It proved to be a more popular rental in Ebbw Vale than ‘Friday the 13th’, and ‘Jaws’. We marvelled at the sheer scale, the virtuosity, the riffs, the vocals and a certain white suit. It was worn of course by Glenn, who not only laid down the foundation of that live wall of sound but was also in possession of an extraordinary voice. Thirty-five years after seeing that video we cannot believe that Glenn Hughes - the voice of rock - will make his Steelhouse Festival debut playing the classic songs of Deep Purple. This is a truly mindblowing announcement for us - his catalogue has helped define a genre, and the voice is still truly incredible... Glenn Hughes in Ebbw Vale - no video recorder or television required, just a Steelhouse Festival 2018 ticket.” Tickets are great value (£95 for the weekend) and available from www.steelhousefestival.com

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REDHANDED 49 14/05/2018 00:09:37

LIFESTYLE

MOCKA

Cardiff institution Mocka Lounge fought off some great competition to be crowned Bar of the Year at this year’s Regional Awards Cardiff. It’s testament to the hard work of the team led by Matt Zain to make Mocka Lounge Cardiff ’s most sought after cocktail bar, where you can enjoy celebrity treatment and exceptional service every day. Customers will enjoy award-winning cocktails and find out for themselves why Mocka Lounge remains one of the most desirable venues in the capital. And this time of year, as the days get longer and the sun streams down, there’s no better place than on Mocka’s terrace on Mill Lane to kick back and enjoy a coffee, sensational cocktails, a glass of wine or a fine meal (breakfast, lunch or dinner) any time of the day. Mocka’s renowned for its lounge nights every weekend. Kickstart your weekend with Friday Feeling or dress to impress on Saturday at House of Play and its deep house accompanied by Mocka’s very own saxophonist. And then relax into some old school classics alongside new tunes at Secret Sunday, where you can also take advantage of 2-for-1 deals on cocktails. And to cap it all Mocka will be celebrating its 9th birthday very soon – details to be announced on their website and social media. Drop in to discover why Mocka Lounge is loved and remembered by all who visit! Mocka Lounge, 1-2 Mill Ln, Cardiff CF10 1FL. www.mockalounge.co.uk @MockaLounge

ONE STEP AT A TIME

Kevin Arnold from Momentum Coaching looks at a recent key political event in Korea and explains how important a simple step in the right direction can be. The image of Kim Jong-un, leader of North Korea, physically walking over the border from North Korea into South Korea to exchange a warm greeting with South Korea’s leader was remarkable. History will judge the consequences of such a momentous event but there can be little dispute that it was almost unimaginable even a few months ago. In our own modest ways significant changes can often occur from a single physical step or thought. This is why I chose the name Momentum when setting up my coaching business. For often the first step (or thought) is the key to creating the momentum which leads to positive change. People often use expressions like “a step in the right direction” and I am often mindful of the wise words of a Tai Chi master I knew who often said, “where intention goes energy flows”. For thoughts become actions and the first step is often the most important. So, whatever it is that you want to do then start by chunking things down into small tasks. Set yourself a target but then allow yourself a minimum easily achievable level that you know you can achieve. For example, if you need to declutter a room and never get around to making a start then set yourself a minimum of say 15 minutes collecting items to take to the charity shop. Often you will find the 15 minutes become an hour and counting. The momentum has then kicked in. I find this strategy works in many walks of life. Try it and see! Kevin is a qualified Practitioner of Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and offers individually tailored sessions in Llantwit Major, in your home or via consultations by telephone or Skype. www. momentum-coaching.co.uk or tel: 07766 018831

WHAT IS THE HANGAR? Born from a desire for a gym with so many weights, plates and kettlebells that you never need to queue. For a gym that doesn’t tie you in with an uncomfortable contract and allows you to pay on your debit card. To manage your own membership with a phone app, where you can book into classes and shop in the store. That is clean, has brand-new equipment and truly excellent coaching. And that is friendly, welcoming and inclusive.

of Professional Fight experience in various combat sports; Oli Cole, Freestyle Wrestling Coach has represented Wales and GB in Wrestling; MMA Fighter Elliott Chilcott, who trains MMA at The Hangar under Ben Kerr, has just been selected to represent the UK at IMMAF Senior European Championships; Shaun Forde, Kickboxing Coach is a European, Twice-British, Celtic and Welsh Champion.

Family run, the Hangar is so far removed from any commercial gym, yet has the coaching, professional quality kit and literally tons of weights that will rival most facilities of its kind, anywhere. With a membership price of £40 monthly that includes a Strength and Conditioning program called APE developed by Head Coach Matt Bowring to ensure an individual’s progression, the Hangar offers outstanding value. Also included are daily Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) classes for all levels, and MMA Beginner Courses plus Muay Thai, Freestyle Wrestling and a challenging form of Yoga.

The Hangar also boasts a full-sized competition cage, that has hosted many MMA legends, and two immaculate treatment rooms offering excellent sports therapy. It has a cafe area with great coffee and healthy snacks at club prices. White-collar boxing courses are planned for July, in conjunction with a charity.

The Hangar’s trainers and coaches have walked-thewalk having many years’ experience coaching and competing. Legendary MMA fighter and Head MMA Coach Paul “Hands of Stone” Jenkins has 20+ years’

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Whilst MMA is regarded as a male-dominated sport, the gym is owned by a woman and girls are definitely not forgotten. The Hangar is actively looking for female fighters and many girls attend its APE classes. Additionally, for girls AND guys they have Pole Sport classes run by national pole sport judges with unlimited pole practise included. Contact Faith Attwell info@hangarhpc.com Tel. 07970 892755 www.hangarhpc.com

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14/05/2018 14:36:11

THE NAME’S KING, TIME KING.

Laings Omega Ambassador, Sarah Taylor explains why Bond’s watch brand of choice, Omega is so special

Omega don’t really need an introduction. Holder of numerous time-keeping records. The first watch to go to the moon. Timekeeper for the Olympic games. Inventor of the diving watch. The preferred timepiece of a certain James Bond. And also the official time-keeper for Volvo Ocean Race, due to arrive in Cardiff shortly. But despite the company’s fame, huge sales and many achievements I still the sense that some customers may not be fully aware of why Omega is so revered. The mark of a discerning customer, such as Bond, is to choose purely on the basis of quality, aesthetics and value. In these respects, there aren’t many watch manufacturers that can hold a candle to Omega. The Speedmaster famously passed a barrage of accuracy and stress tests to become NASA’s official watch in 1962 and, as the Z-33, it remains so today; the Seamaster is the preferred choice for professional divers the world over thanks to its accuracy and ability to withstand brutal deep-sea conditions and rough treatment.

LIFESTYLE

Omega’s movements are renowned for accuracy with more time-keeping records than any other and now exclusively boast the Co-Axial movement developed by Brit watch-making legend George Daniels. Acknowledged as the most important development in watch making in decades it increases long-term accuracy and reliability. The standard of finish is excellent and they’re aesthetically stunning with design reflecting function not fashion. And all this at a price that compares very well to other brands. But if you want the best of both worlds – Omega quality, style and affordability but something a little different and more exclusive – Omega has launched the Seamaster Planet Ocean 600m Deep Black to mark its partnership with the world’s most demanding endurance yacht race. With a ceramic finish, mechanically it’s the same as the standard Planet Ocean – Master Chronometer certification, waterproof to 600m, a Co-Axial 8507 movement, helium valve and silicon balance spring etc – but it also has a lovely Volvo Ocean Race inspired colour scheme. Laings Jeweller, The Hayes, St Davids Centre, Cardiff or www.laingsuk.com

WE HEAR VOICES There’s so much happening at this year’s Festival of Voice (7 – 17 June), it’s hard to know where to start. Lead by the Wales Millennium Centre (which is also the main hub) and spread across venues throughout Cardiff including the New Theatre, Chapter and St David’s Hall, this international festival celebrates the voice in all its forms. Add to that, there is a deep desire to involve local communities and leave a lasting legacy. Famous names are as good a place to kick off as any, with a number of absolute legends taking the stage this year. They don’t get much more influential than Patti Smith, singer/poet godmother of US punk and an inspiration for bands including REM and The Smiths. On a par, especially our side of the pond, is Elvis Costello & The Imposters, another punk and new wave stalwart. Still standing up for the downtrodden, Billy Bragg has plenty to rail against in post-Brexit, austerity Britain. The campaigning theme continues with Nadine Shah’s Voices of Protest and Wales’ own Gruff Rhys and BBC National Orchestra of Wales will be performing his new album ‘Babelsberg’. “I was looking for a name that evoked the Tower of Babel – people building towers to reach an idea of heaven (but maybe creating a kind of hell)…The idea of utilising an orchestra seemed to chime with the fact that we’re living in this weird, fake, opulent world with empty luxury flats towering over city centres and that veneer is there to disguise the cancer inside”.

There’s also Angélique Kidjo’s reworking of the Talking Heads’ masterpiece Remain In Light, Angela Denoke with WNO Orchestra and Passenger. LUMP, a new collaboration between Mercury Award nominated Laura Marling and Mike Lindsay, completes the main line-up. Charlotte Church returns to Festival of Voice – this time presenting a joy-fuelled evening at WMC entitled Utopia. “My perfect world has voices from the most diverse areas of world music, grime, cabaret, electronica, all snuggled alongside each other as comfortable bed fellows. I want to explore concepts of utopia and dystopia with the audience, whilst having unhealthy amounts of fun. It’s also great to be involved in Festival of Voice again this year – the festival offers artists and audiences new opportunities to explore, discover and find their own powerful voice – and all in Cardiff.” But there’s so much more, with a plethora of other artists, such as female Icelandic rappers Daughters of Rekyjavik and Wales’ Gwenno Saunders, performing. Plus admirable attempts to involve local communities such as Street Games, Gig Buddies (able bodied volunteers helping the less able get around), a women’s procession and opportunities to buy £5 tickets. www.festivalofvoice.wales for detailed info on acts, dates, venues and tickets.

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REDHANDED 51 14/05/2018 00:11:33

LIFESTYLE

PIZZA HEAVEN Tony Frawley’s Naples-born aunt taught him how to make pizza dough at an early age. And not just any dough. We’re talking Neopolitan pizza dough. It’s great that artisan pizza making has taken off in the UK, and Wales has some fine examples. But making a true Neopolitan pizza is an art, as well as a science. Tony first put his years’ of experience, knowledge and passion into practice commercially with Anatoni’s in Lakeside, Cardiff - the first ever Neopolitan pizzeria in Cardiff. With a pizza oven built by his cancer-stricken brother-in-law, it soon became a mecca for anyone who wanted to experience a stunning, real Neopolitan pizza. Enshrined in EU trademark law, a Neopolitan pizza must conform to a strict list of ingredients and method of cooking. It must be made from durum wheat flour, sea salt, fresh yeast and genuine mozzarella cheese from the milk of buffaloes. Only San Marzano tomatoes, which grow near Mount Vesuvius, will suffice. It must have a raised crust 3cms wide and a base no more than 3mm thick. The dough must be stretched by hand and then cooked in a wood-fired oven on a stone slab. But great pizza makers, such as Tony’s idol Naples legend Gino Sorbillo, take it to a whole different level.

TEE PARTY CENTRAL

The Cardiff Devils, Ospreys, Scarlets, CCFC and many more are just some of the groups that have had a wail of a time partying at Tee It Up indoor golf centre in Cardiff. With three golf simulators, a café, licensed bar, many food options and even an F1 simulator, it’s tremendous fun and perfect for a shindig of any size up to 60 people. There’s a great atmosphere in which to have a laugh and a drink with your mates, colleagues or extended family. It’s also great for parties, work and team building. The brainchild of experienced coach and PGA pro Rob Johnson and equipped with three state-of-the-art golf simulators, Tee It Up is the first Indoor golf centre of its kind in Wales. You stand 10ft from a large, 4k screen that simulates the view down the fairway. Then, using a normal club and ball, a hi-tech camera captures your stroke in the minutest detail, as you play your stroke. A computer calculates the path of the ball using inputs from the camera and meticulously constructed parameters and modelling. The technology is the most accurate there is and delivers unmatched accuracy and true-to-life performance. And you can play any one of 45 classic courses around the world in any weather conditions. For example if you want to play Carnoustie in a gale, no problem! You can also play real-time in ‘live’ events, pitching yourself against the best in the world. And at the moment Tee It Up has a cracking special offer on - you can hire it exclusively for that special occasion or event for just £99 instead of the usual £400 (minimum of 12 people). That’s a staggering 75% discount. As part of the package you’ll get unlimited use of the simulators and, of course, expert help will be on hand to give tips and advice on how to make the most of your group’s special day. Whatever the occasion – stags, hens, birthdays, team building, corporate or childrens’ parties – you won’t be disappointed. Tee It Up, Unit 1, Sovereign Quay, Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay CF10 5SF, Tel: 02920 489 768 www.teeitupgolf.co.uk

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It’s all about quality of ingredients, technique and the oven. He imports the best 00 durum flour from Italy, the finest San Marzano tomatoes and mozzarella cheese and meats that are second to none. “Watch your ingredients and don’t skimp.” he says. Anatoni’s new pizza oven is made by Naples’ oldest and best pizza oven manufacturer in Naples, Stefano Ferraro. It takes three weeks to make, is then transported to Cardiff from Italy and needs two weeks to dry out before it’s ready for use. And then there’s technique. Tony has immersed himself in pizza making and has studied the masters in Naples at work to gain an understanding of how to work the dough, how long to let it rise given ambient temperature and moisture, and how to prepare the pizza with the correct balance of ingredients. Tony’s abiding philosophy is pinched from Gino. “Without your customers you’re nothing. It’s never your pizzeria – it’s your customers’”. He continues, “I do this for the community who supported us all along. So many people wanted us to continue – Anatoni’s belongs to its customers and we want to give back.” Unit 6, The Globe Centre, Wellfield Rd, Cardiff CF24 3PE. Tel. 029 2049 5975

PERFECT PITCH

Restaurants and bars, such as Pitch, along Mill Lane in Cardiff have done a fine job to create an eclectic and quintessentially British Riviera-esque atmosphere in recent years, despite the less than perfect and rather, unpredictable British weather. And the guys at Pitch are going the extra mile to create a stunning outdoor experience for diners creating a uniquely Welsh take on continental style Al-fresco dining and drinking. The result is a full-on, continental, piazza vibe, with a partially covered, outdoor area, perfect for basking in the summer sun. But the big news is on the drinks menu. As well as offering an extensive array of local, ales, wines and spirits, which includes an awesome selection of gins, there’s a new and massively increased cocktail menu. As well as old favourites, there’ll be new twist on the genre. With too many to list here, your best option is drop and in and experience these beautifully made taste sensations yourself. To make the most of the al fresco vibe, in addition to the locally sourced, Welsh menu already on offer there’ll be more salads, light dishes and small plates, all still Welsh wherever possible. Because the menu is changeable, being seasonal and as fresh as possible, it’s always worth checking in to see what’s new. All you’ll need is some factor 12 and your shades. Pitch Bar & Eatery, 3 Mill Ln, Cardiff CF10 1FL. Tel 029 2022 8882. www.pitchcardiff.com

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14/05/2018 16:17:47

REACH FOR THE SKY

MJR Group, owners of The Tramshed and The Globe, are bringing a storming line up to their inaugural Skyline festival at St Philips Gate in Bristol throughout the Summer. With so many acts playing, drawn from a plethora of genres across the last few decades, from the 80’s to the present day, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Indeed, there’ll be acts that many of you will be desperate to see, as they’ll either have been part of the soundtrack to your formative years, or they’ll be bands that have been crucial influences on music ever since. Where would guitar bands like The Killers be without Jesus and Mary Chain’s Psychocandy? Or much modern underground rock without Echo and the Bunnymen. And it’s impossible to under-estimate Peter Hook’s (as a member of Joy Division and New Order) epoch making impact on Indie and all that’s followed. All of whom are playing at St Philipp’s Gate on 22nd June. Then there’s UB40 (23rd June), The Beat and The Selecter (both 3rd August) – the daddies of the current Ska and Two Tone revival. Feel good music that’s perfect for a summer outdoor gig. Also on the bill on 3rd August is From The Jam. Comprising Jam bassist Bruce Foxton and Russell Hastings, it’s as close as you’ll ever get to the intensity of the Mod icons at their best. The The produced a series of seminal albums in the late 80’s and early 90’s, such as Infected and

LIFESTYLE

Mindbomb, thanks to an ability to combine sharp lyrics, a sparse post-punk edge and catchy melodies. They play Sunday the 9th September. Imelda May’s star has been rising for the last few years thanks to her unique interpretation and fusion of rockabilly, early rock’n’roll and the blues. And on the same bill (31st August) are Scottish pop rock icons Texas, who, we shouldn’t forget, have sold an eye-watering 40 million records, including the stunning debut single I Don’t Want a Lover. It would be easy to pigeon-hole Garbage as Indie rock, thanks to the ‘90’s success of Stupid Girl and It Only Happens When It Rains but the truth is throughout their long career they’ve experimented with many different genres from grunge to trip hop to pop. Catch them on 7th Sept. But it’s not all about looking to the past. Future Islands are one of the hottest live bands around right now having stormed through sets at Coachella and Glastonbury. You can hear their high energy brand of synthpop/rock on 20th July. By contrast, James Arthur’s used his success on X Factor in 2012 to launch a serious, and seriously successful, career fusing pop, R&B, hip hop, soul and rock (24th Aug). And The Vamps bring yet another dimension on 26th August with pure unadulterated guitar pop. Add to all of this a gamut of support acts and some great local street food and you have the perfect formula for a festival. www.skyline-series.com for more info and tickets

STATE OF PLAY

The internationally renowned circus company will bring their newest large-scale touring show, LEXICON, home to Cardiff as part of the Volvo Ocean Race Stopover - their first performance of a large-scale tented work in Cardiff since 2015.

With the same award winning creative team that created ImMortal, tabu, and Bianco, Lexicon is a stunning new production that brings together world class circus performers, musicians, and artists in a daring, seductive and utterly contemporary take on the circus experience. Tom Rack, Cofounder and Artistic Director explains: “We’re excited to bring our new show, LEXICON to our hometown of Cardiff as part of the Volvo Ocean Race Stopover. Past shows like BIANCO were more like aerial spectaculars in a ‘promenade’ style, where audiences would walk around with the action going on above and all around them. “But in LEXICON we’re embracing the origins of circus with traditional style seated ‘in-the-round’ audience and some more traditional skills and techniques. There’ll still be spectacular, heart-inyour-mouth aerial skills, beautiful images and exciting live music, but now we can perform on a stage as well, which opens up a world of exciting possibilities.”

Born and bred in Wales, trapeze artist and rigger Lyndall Merry adds: “Lexicon is both a celebration of “the art of misbehaving” and how circus is the place where rules can be broken, but also a celebration of the difference and the individuality in each human being and how circus is the place where those who often are outside of society’s standards of normality can be accepted for who they are. “I think the highlights of the show are the new stage, seriously exciting new rigging techniques and that we’ve been able to include floor based skills nofitstate - allowing us to engage with small, intimate images in a way that has never been possible before. And playing with scale and going from the very small to the totally immense has been pretty exciting. “It’s always brilliant to be in Cardiff. The last two years we’ve been in Hong Kong, New York, London and it is super exciting to be in these places, but playing at home is always a special thing. We get to share the fruit of a lot of hard work with our mates and families but also hopefully continue to make Cardiff a great place for circus in the UK and inspire the next generation of circus performers who attend the classes in Four Elms and will become the next NoFit State performers.” Lexicon, 26 May – 9 June, Cardiff Bay. www.nofitstate.org for info and tickets

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REDHANDED 53 13/05/2018 23:46:26

HEALTH & GROOMING Want to live longer? Take a cold shower and get a dog, says Jason Jones

6 of the best… New Products

It’s official: the male grooming market is a bona fide multi-billion quid boom business. Since the turn of the millennium, the industry has swelled by a staggering 800 per cent. This is due to a trifecta of the self-promoting power of social media, the influence of body-baring Marmite TV like TOWIE and Love Island and a general pumped-up cultural awareness of the importance of keeping ourselves in presentable nick. It’s even survived our straitened, cash-strapped times, with profits this year not only set to remain steady, but significantly rise. Consequently, companies are confident about constantly debuting new products. As scores of lotion’n’potions launch on the literal and cyber High Street every week it’s increasingly confusing to sort the winners from the also-rans. Enter our countdown of the best new kids on the grooming block. 1. House 99 By David Beckham (£15-£22) Brand Beckhams’ bid for world domination continues apace with the launch of Goldenballs’ first grooming range. “Inspired by barbershop culture”, the 13-product collection is simply packaged, clean-smelling with a non-starry price-point. In other words, an inevitable hit. 2. Dermot O’Leary - Bergamot & Basil and Vetiver & Cedarwood Fragrances (100ml, £22) Still with ‘sleb’ endorsements, two fragrances

are the latest addition to Mr Saturday Night’s exclusive-toM&S men’s skincare line. Bergamot & Basil is zestily citrus and perfect for daytime, while Vetiver & Cedarwood is spicier and has big night-out written all over it. 3. Murdock - Quince & Oatmoss Shampoo (250ml, £12) From the big guns to an ‘indier’ operation. Sulphate- and pH-free, this doesn’t strip hair of its natural nutrients, but gifts a squeaky shininess that you can see your face in. 4. Molton Brown - Orange & Bergamot Range (from £10) A 2018 riff on a classic 30-year-old fragrance profile by the perennially popular über-brand. Including showergels, hand wash and lotion and body scrub, everything is redolent of warm summer evenings. 5. LUSH - Here Comes the Sun Shower Cream (100g, £9.75) Speaking of summer, the name here may be more prayer than promise in our climate, but with its combination of mandarin and tangerine oils this is a shot of sunshine in a bottle. Well, it doesn’t actually come in a bottle, but is fashioned into one that you lather up and use like a luxurious soap. 6. This Works - Evening Detox Cleansing Water & Spray-On Exfoliant (200ml, £22/60ml, £28) Everything that comes out of the This Works stable is stellar and these two newbies are no exception. Used in tandem, they are designed to cut through modern living pollution leaving our faces feeling country-walk fresh.

HEALTH HACKS TO HELP US LIVE LONGER Get a dog Dozens of studies have shown that dog owners enjoy a longer and healthier life. Dogs more than any other pet have proven to lower blood pressure by buffering us from stress as well as increasing physical activity and social interaction, which enhance both physiological and psychological health. Eat asparagus One of the best sources of folic acid, a form of vitamin B that helps prevent strokes, heart disease and some cancers. It’s also loaded with the antioxidant glutathione, which fights premature ageing by repairing DNA damage and boosting all-round immunity.

Spa Gazing The Corran Resort & Spa, Laugharne Signature treatment: The De-Stress Eye Treatment for Puffiness & Dark Circles (25mins, £25) does exactly what it says on the tin, leaving peepers looking perkier and the mind clutter-free. Prices: Surprisingly not too pocket-bruising considering the resort’s face-slapping swishness. A 25-minute Express Facial comes in at an impressive £35 while a full body massage (55mins) is a competitive £70. Service: Super-efficient without being too try-hard. The staff know their stuff, but tailor their approach to you individually. The X Factor: Between the sweeping drama of the surrounding salt marshes that so inspired Dylan Thomas and the high-end homeliness of the hotel itself with its topnotch restaurant, singling out one wowser aspect is difficult. The real draw here though is the feeling of rarified remoteness, a place where you can go off-grid and get away from the grind of life. Score: A slam-dunking 9 out of 10. thecorran.com

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Have sex Finally, it’s on doctors’ orders. Research carried out here in Wales – yay us! – showed that men who had at least two orgasms a week lived longer than men who had less. This is because sex builds up the body’s infection-fighting defences, releases natural-painkilling endorphins and (hopefully) calms stress. This, in turn, lowers blood pressure helping heart health and reducing stroke risk. And, yes, doing it alone does count, but is not quite as effective. (Or fun!) Take a cold shower As well as being a shot in the arm for the immune system and a mind sharpener, coldwater exposure speeds up cell recovery and limits muscle inflammation, which is why athletes take post-match ice baths. If that’s too extreme, then turn off the hot water for the last minute of your morning shower. Although, don’t do it before the previous hack for obvious aesthetic reasons.

www.theredlionatpendoylan.co.uk 01446 760690

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REDHANDED 55 13/05/2018 17:29:22

Affordable Everyday Luxury Fine dining in an iconic building If you are looking for affordable everyday luxury in an iconic building, then you have found the right place. Park House is an award-winning French-influenced restaurant and fine wine bar that was established in 2005. A fifty-seater restaurant, wine bar and two private dining rooms are spread across four floors in the iconic William Burges grade one listed building. This is located in the centre of Cardiff, only a stone’s throw from the Museum, City Hall and Cardiff ’s business district. ‘Creativity is at the restaurant’s core, reflected through the food, service and design’. The Park House is known for its unforgettable menus, and the wine list is regarded as one of the finest in Europe. Why visit the Park House? From business people just wanting to logon to the

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WIFI and have a coffee meeting (coffee starts at only £1), to presenting in our business suite and taking clients or colleagues for fine dining. To people passionate about excellent food and service that want to join us for lunch (from £20 for two courses) or dinner with our à la carte menus. Or why not indulge in the French afternoon tea (from £25). If you are looking for something to share why not try the very popular cheese and charcuterie menu in the bar. The Park House offers affordable everyday luxury.

It’s an exquisite setting that delivers a warm welcome of the highest standard. The service is exceptional, and the vibrant atmosphere of the beautiful wine bar to the world-class restaurant is unrivalled in the capital. At Park House, they are passionate about quality ingredients and seek to emphasise the wonderful aspects of our local Welsh nature with best that France can offer. Their mission is to create dishes that involve texture, flavour, and excitement while matching perfectly with their other passion – fine wines.

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Park House Restaurant is housed in a stunning Gothic style mansion house located in the heart of Cardiff ’s old district. The property was built in 1874 by the wealthy Marquess of Bute, who commissioned the first of the great docks, which transformed the Cardiff from a sleepy town into a modern, prosperous city. A quarter of a million pounds has been spent on refurbishing the venue from top to bottom, and the final stages complete this year. A visit to see both regal yet modern interiors and try the new menu is a must for anyone that values excellent food, wine and ambience. Park House is a family business that has captured the hearts of Cardiff for over a decade. Wine The passion is not just limited to the food they offer but also the drinks they serve. They truly believe that a perfect wine match not only elevates the dish but also the wine. Wine and food matching is at the core of what they do, and have built over the last ten years one of the finest cellars in the UK, and this enables them to offer multiple wine matches to every dish served. Monthly ‘meet the winemaker’ dinners with the finest winemakers in the world, in long table format are very popular giving customers a glimpse into the different wine regions of the world. Recognised for their wine program consistently throughout the years, recent awards include: 3 Stars - Worlds Best Wine List Awards 2017 – Jury Prize & Top 120 Wine Restaurants in the World Condé Nast Johansens Champagne Taittinger Best Wines By the Glass List 2018 Condé Nast Johansens Champagne Taittinger Wine List of The Year 2017 Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence 2017

tutelage of Head Chef Martin Green MCA, achieving 3 AA rosettes in 2001. He then moved to London to continue his training with Martin, his first taste of French Cuisine was at Auberge du Lac with Jean Christophe Novelli. A move to Paris in 2007 enabled Andrew to further his culinary experience. An opportunity arose for Andrew to be part of the opening team at the historic Trianon Palace in Versailles recently taken over by Gordon Ramsey. Here under the tutelage of Simone Zanoni, Andrew progressed to Sous Chef, and the Restaurant gained 2 Michelin stars. A move back to London with the Gordon Ramsey group as sous chef to Sean Burbidge saw Andrew be part of the opening of the now famed Petrus restaurant, gaining a Michelin star in the first year. Opportunity then arose for Andrew to work with the 3 Michelin Star chef, Arnaud Lallement aboard the world first true fine-dining cruise ship before returning to Paris to work in the famed 3 Michelin Star Restaurant Le Cinq under Eric Briffard and Christian Le Squer. Here Andrew truly developed his style of classic French culinary techniques, while embracing a newer, lighter cooking style. Andrew then opened one of Paris’s best fish restaurants, Belle Maison, gaining critical acclaim and a huge customer following. Andrew has now come full circle and returned home with a burning ambition to create something special in his home city as well as a wish to inspire and teach the next generation of chefs.

Meet the chef Andrew Frost – Chef Patron

The new Park House has opened its doors and Adam, Claire and the team can’t wait to welcome you all.

Andrew started his career in 1999 at Sir Rocco Fortes newly built St David’s hotel as an apprentice under the

Reserve your table soon either online or give them a call on 02920 224343

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Website: www.parkhouserestaurant.co.uk 20 Park Place Cardiff CF10 3DQ T: 02920 224343 E: enquiries@parkhouserestaurant.co.uk

REDHANDED 57 14/05/2018 13:44:11

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14/05/2018 16:00:29

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14/05/2018 16:34:46

GT WITH ICE

Maserati Ghibli S 2018

The remake of the Ghibli was very well received and signalled Maserati’s return as a serious maker of luxury cars. With that acceptance, however, comes greater expectations and the hardest task in automotive engineering is the mid-model refresh of a proven product. And a flippin’ good job they’ve done. Along with the almost expected increase in horsepower comes a host of upgrades that help Ghibli’s continued journey from niche alternative to mainstream luxury contender. First and foremost is the addition of a new suite of safety devices. Superficially boring but absolutely necessary to compete with the likes of BMW, Mercedes and Jaguar. So, as much as it seems incongruous to mention Maserati in the same sentence as self-driving, the new Ghibli has now reached Level II autonomy. In addition to the now normal suite of lane departure warnings and forward collision warning, the 2018 model adds adaptive cruise control with highway assist, active blind spot assist and even active lane keeping. Then there’s adaptive LED headlights that can produce an almost infinite number of lighting patterns, ideal for lighting up the dark without blinding oncoming traffic. Another highlight is Maserati Touch Control Plus, with easily deciphered submenus and permanently displayed buttons — navigation, vehicle settings, audio, etc. — that precludes the need for a back button or always returning to the main menu when you get confused. But one doesn’t buy Maseratis for safety gear, light shows or user interfaces, the attraction of any Italian exotic is its sound and the fury. Of which there’s plenty in the Ghibli. The S pumps out 404 horsepower for 2018, a creditable number for a mere V6. And despite being twice turbocharged the 3.0-litre does the full Bryn Terfel every time you floor the throttle. It accelerates to 62mph in five seconds.

and tops out at 177mph — slightly more than the previous model, Maserati takes pains to note. More impressive perhaps is the Ghibli’s implementation of electric power steering. Weighting is ideal, the response impressively direct and, even the feedback, though a little diminished from the purely mechanical system, more than adequate. Combined with extremely well calibrated suspension, the Ghibli attacks flowing bends like few other sports saloons. And that road holding doesn’t come at the expense of comfort. Indeed, after all the compliments paid to engine and steering, the new Ghibli’s best feature is Maserati’s adjustable Skyhook suspension. It proves firm yet compliant; coddling yet sporty. Inside, the Ghibli is again typically Italian, all warm colours and soft leather.

Top Speed: 177mph 0-62mph: 5secs CO2: 223g/km MPG: 29.4 Price: £64,620

All this is great but let’s be honest, they resolve reasons that might prevent customers plumping for the famous Trident badge. What makes the Ghibli so desirable though is still there in abundance – the feeling of exotica that is driving a Maserati. No direct competitor matches its combination of power, handling, comfort and effortless Italian style.

GET REAL

It’s been a tough couple of years for the motor industry. Diesel’s taken a pummelling, Brexit’s not helped and, perhaps, most worryingly of all, Joe public no longer trusts industry data on CO2 levels and fuel economy. In a bid to address the latter point, the government is introducing new tests that accurately measure real-life performance. Here’s your handy, simplified, RedHanded explanation of how the new tests are conducted and what they mean. Called the Worldwide harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP), the tests are the result of years of research by boffins from the EU, Japan, India and the UN. Instead of conducting lab tests on a theoretical driving profile the WLTP cycle was developed using real-driving data and therefore better represents everyday driving. They’ve then been fine-tuned to better reflect British driving conditions and regulations (such as our urban and national speed limits). The WLTP driving cycle is divided into four parts with different average speeds: low, medium, high and extra high. Each part contains a variety of driving phases, stops, acceleration and braking phases. Maximum speed has been increased, additional weights

and options are considered, test distance is doubled, test cycle times are 50% longer, average speed is higher, acceleration and braking styles are closer to real life, and vehicle set-ups and test conditions are stricter. Another test, Real Driving Emissions (RDE) measures pollutants, such as NOx, emitted by cars while driven on the road. RDE ensures that cars deliver low emissions over on-road conditions. Whilst there are still some grumbles about their accuracy, the tests are a massive step towards truly accurate levels of pollutants and CO2 emissions, fuel or energy consumption and electric range. Some manufacturers will find the tests a real challenge whilst other such as Mazda, welcome them, knowing that their engines/drivetrains have always been good real-world performers. The Mazda 2 for example, in its 1.5l SkyActiv petrol, 90bhp guise returns 54.3mpg and 118g/km of CO2 under the new tests (it was 62mpg in the old) and fully conforms to Euro VI. There’s no doubting though that the real winners are the buying public, both financially and in health terms, and more importantly for many, the planet.

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Paul Kelly drives some cool speed machines

REDHANDED 59 14/05/2018 00:15:39

ADVERTORIAL

The Devil’s Work Crafty Devil Brewing Co. Ltd is on a mission to establish itself as THE independent Craft Beer brewer in Cardiﬀ

Their website might have you believe Crafty Devil’s success is the result of a Faustian pact with the dark Lord himself, made in the dead of night at a deserted cross-roads in the hinterland of the Taff delta, but, actually, it’s far simpler than that. Two guys with a passion for craft beer, a determination to make the best American style beers they can and to do it with an ethos inspired by the city they love. This, in essence, is what’s taken Crafty Devil in a few short years from a shed in the garden to a 130,000 litre annual capacity brewery with a range of lauded Craft beers, a brewery-tap bar and shop in Canton and, now, an ambitious plan to expand with the opening of a new bar in Cardiff City Centre – Beelzebubs.

Adam continues: “We purposely brew small select batches from specially selected American style hops, so our beers can afford to be a little more experimental and complex in their taste delivery. It can be difficult to keep producing new and exciting beers which is where we often draw inspiration from our other great passions – Cardiff and music.” Crafty Devil now produces a range of signature and rotational beers, often with tongue in cheek, music or Wales inspired names. There are five signature ales. ‘Rock’n’Roll Star’ named after the Oasis track is an American style Pale Ale with powerful all American hops and a clean, crisp, citrus zing with a hint of pine for a full flavour. I AM THE RESURRECTION! - a combination of American hops on top of blended malts to create a hoppy Amber Ale named after the legendary Stone Roses track of the same name. Mikey Rayer Alldayer Cardiff Pale Ale is session pale ale named after the Cardiff and Wales rugby legend Mike Rayer. Basket Case is a session IPA – a bitter, hoppy, fruity flavour bomb of an IPA, best named after the 1990’s Green Day’s track of the same name. Whilst Safe As Milk is becoming a Cardiff cult beer. A wholesome milk stout conditioned on Coffee supplied by West Wales roasters Coal Town Coffee and is named after the Captain Beefhearts’ Safe as Milk album. The ‘rotational’ beers tend to be a little more experimental and are intended to max out flavours Magic Bus IPA 6.7%, Cry Baby Lactose Pale Ale 5.3% and Taxman DIPA 9.2% are prime examples.

Launched in 2014, Crafty Devil is the brainchild of Rhys Watkins and Adam Edinborough, two Cardiff boys, frustrated with the daily grind, who wanted to pursue their dream of making great craft beers. They knew from early experiments in Rhys’ shed and a rapturous reception from local bars and bottle shops that they were on to something special so moved to larger premises with room to produce a full range of beers, that could supply local bars, independent craft ale haunts nationally, a packaged range and eventually their own shop and bars. The journey hasn’t always been plain sailing but their confidence was well placed. Their American style craft beers are now acknowledged as amongst the best in the UK with a fan base that includes BrewDog and usually number one in Wales ranking on beer rating site and app, untappd.

Crafty Devil’s beers are, like the great craft beers of the USA, best experienced locally. For Rhys and Adam this is fundamental. “If you look at the craft beer brewers in the US, they all serve their local community, rarely travelling much more than 30 miles, which is historically what happened in the UK. And for good reason – beer always taste better when it hasn’t travelled too far “This local connection is a two-way thing. Crafty Devil is rooted in Cardiff not just because that’s where most of our customers are and where are ales are at their best, having only travelled a short distance from the brewery, but because Cardiff feeds back into Crafty Devil in many other small ways. We lend support

As Rhys explains “Making craft beer is simple in principle but is actually not easy to get right. There are so many little problems that have to be solved and it can be difficult to maintain consistency, especially as you scale up. It was a steep learning curve but we always felt we were on the right track and the support and great feedback from local bars, customers and the craft ale community really helped as we developed the range and increased the size of the operation.”

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Bennett Arron, Niall Griﬃths, Owain Taylor Shaw, Phil Boucher, Iestyn Jones, Dafydd Jones to local events such as music and food festivals, sponsorship of local charities and clubs and vocal support for local campaigns such as Save Womanby Street”. Hell, they even have an occasional beer named after Cardiff Dog’s Home. Since beer is at its best consumed locally and Crafty Devil is so intrinsically linked to Cardiff, it was always a no brainer for Crafty Devil to have its own bars close to the brewery. Their first, the Crafty Devil Cellar Bar and Shop on Llandaff Road in Canton, opened in late 2015 and it’s been a great success, serving to spur the Crafty Devil team on to their latest and most ambitious move so far – a crowd-funded flagship venue on High Street in Cardiff city centre named, appropriately, Beelzebub. The revenue raised from crowd funding was double what was hoped for, vindication that people love what Crafty Devil are doing, and will enable Beelzebub to be a bar like nowhere else in Cardiff. Located in a part of Cardiff increasingly synonymous with quirky, independent bars and next to one of Cardiff ’s great drinking institutions, The Goat Major, Beelzebubs will have the feel of a New York bar and will be closely modelled on American craft ale bars – wide, open, and expansive with plentiful seating at the bar and sports screens. As well as creating a unique venue, a key aim is to make it easier for customers to get Crafty Devil in the city centre, at the same time securing a steady outlet for Crafty Devil’s beer. There’ll be ten Crafty Devil lines, comprising the core range and five rotating ales. Additionally, five sparkling ciders will be available plus two guest ales on tap. Realising that a key part of Beelzebub’s appeal will be a welcoming, New York style atmosphere and bonhomie, Chris Rowlands has come on board as a director to manage Beelzebub. One of Cardiff ’s great characters and an experienced hand (ex Brains and M&B), his larger than life persona will guarantee Beelzebub will be a fun place to enjoy a great craft Ale. But enough talk. The only real and by far the most pleasurable way to get the true Crafty Devil experience is to head down to Beelzebubs for yourself.

Photography: Mei Lewis MissionPhotographic.Com

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To receive RedHanded call: 029 2019 0224 RedHanded Magazine is published by Conroy Media Ltd, PO Box 607, Cardiﬀ CF24 1ZR ©Conroy Media 2017. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without the written permission of the publishers. Whilst every care has been taken in the preparation of this magazine, the publishers can not be held responsible for the accuracy of the information herein, or any consequence arising from it. The views expressed in RedHanded are not necessarily those of the editor or the publishers.

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Restaurants & Bars Mezza Luna - City Road, Cardiff

There are those who believe that City Road is one long stretch of interchangeable ‘kebab houses’, all serving up minute variations on the same Middle-Eastern theme. Mezza Luna has a couple of tricks up its sleeve. There’s a rich selection for non-meat eaters: broad beans heady with garlic, punchy pickles, a silky hummus, and an aubergine dip which carries a heft of genuine smokiness. But carnivores are in for a treat too. Order the mixed grill platter, roll up your sleeves, and go to town on the meaty delights therein. It’s a dish I can vouch for having enjoyed it on a previous visit. But it’s one of their shawarma dishes, which is both a house special and unique to the area, that grabs me. Twice-cooked duck (poached, then finished over live flame) is both tender and crisp-skinned; it’s scattered with pomegranate seeds for acidity and texture, and laced with pomegranate molasses, all sour-sweet astringency cutting through the richness of the breast meat. It’s no surprise to learn it’s a much-loved favourite, the kind of thing to turn you into a regular customer.

Despite City Road being full of restaurants, you can find getting a drink hard to come by. Here again Mezza Luna leads the way, with local brewers such as Crafty Devil on the bar and even their own signature pale ale, brewed in collaboration with up-and-coming Roath Brewery, in development. It’s a light citrus beer to complement the menu, and unique among their peers. Weekends sees a belly dancer for a relaxed, fun atmosphere. If that’s not your thing, just get down to the serious business of eating your way through a menu which is as light or as substantial as you want it to be. Mezza Luna is the kind of place which will have you coming back. And back. Just don’t blame me for your duck shawarma addiction.

There are Moroccan influences in this menu, too, with fine-grained, delicately perfumed couscous teamed with a chicken tagine. The layers of flavour build: there’s heat, and tart sweetness, and the (organic) apricots have cooked down slowly so the sauce achieves an almost jammy consistency.

Mezza Luna, 159 City Rd, Cardiff CF24 3BQ. Tel. 029 2047 2772 www.mezzalunacardiff.co.uk

Pier 64 - Penarth Marina, Penarth Pier 64 is about ‘feel good’. The location, next to Penarth Marina; the view through the full height bifold doors, over the terrace and beyond to the yachts moored in said marina; the relaxed, confident ambience; the bright ‘designer’ décor – all white, silver and black. It exudes confidence and success as do its clientele. But is it all mink and no drawers? Early signs are good. Staff are attentive, knowledgeable and friendly. There’s a real warmth as they talk through the menu, recommending options for starters, sides (we’d already decided on mains) and wines. We go with their advice, choosing calamari and scallops. The advice was spot on. The over-flowing bowl of chilli flake speckled calamari was tender, light (thanks to potato starch batter) and with a delightful kick, complemented by lovely sweet soy dip. The scallops were equally tender and plump with a sweet caramelised outer but delicate interior.

rich, luxurious ratatouille. An honourable mention is deserved for the generous sides of luxurious braised cabbage, tender green beans with parmesan, and breads with olive oil/reduced balsamic vinegar, both of which were clearly high quality. The Nutella gnocchi was not only fun, but worked brilliantly from a flavour and texture perspective with crunchy potato encasing a gooey Nutella centre. O’s spectacularly presented ‘Mixed Fruit Deconstructed Cheesecake’ was a melange of sweet summer zest. A great meal and service from start to finish confirms Pier 64 definitely has the substance to back up the style.

Having gone healthy with our starter we felt entitled to opt for a meat-fest with our mains – afterall Pier 64 is renowned in this respect. It’s easy to see why. Meat is sourced from Howell’s butchers in Swansea – their 100 years’ of expertise meant my aged sirloin, from slowgrowing, grass-fed, pedigree Welsh cattle, and O’s rack of free-range Welsh lamb were both melt-in-the-mouth tender and full of flavour. They were also both served exactly as asked; medium-rare and pink. Great meat, cooked right. Simple, but oh so good. A lovely rich pepper sauce and surprisingly mellow sweet potato with chorizo worked a treat with the steak, whilst the lamb came on a layer-cake of creamy mash and a

Pier 64, Penarth Marina, Penarth CF64 1TT. Tel. 029 2000 0064 www.pier64.co.uk

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Restaurants & Bars Red Lion at Pendoylan - Pendoylan, Vale of Glamorgan If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for the perfect pub. A cosy, conveniently located Welsh country inn, with great ales and contemporary takes on classic pub faves. But along with a brioche bun burger and gourmet fish and chips, the menu should also, ideally, express a distinct flair for local and seasonal fare. Am I asking too much? I think not. Look no further than The Red Lion at Pendoylan. Nestled in the Vale of Glamorgan, yet just 5 minutes from the M4, over the past few years this early 19th Century farmhouse has received a welcome breath of fresh air from local lass Carmella Smith of Llantrithyd along with her sister Holly and partner, Chef Mark Edwards, from Penparcau, Aberystwyth. The bar hosts a variety of ales, and a lovely lounging spot by the fire. The Alta Rita Chilean house wine, a creamy Chardonnay, was the perfect aperitif with the pre-starter ‘nibbles’, which - considering their generous size - should really be spelled with a capital ‘n’. The Rogers & Son of Carmarthen black pudding fritters are definitely a must, along with the Alex Gooch artisan breads. Red Lion at Pendoylan, Pendoylan, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7UJ. Tel. 01446 760690

www.theredlionatpendoylan.co.uk

and chive potato salad was perfect, especially for the lightest appetite. The prospect of a 70-day aged sirloin served with triple cooked chips was too ravishing to resist; the Carmarthenshire steak was a triumph, with the airdrying process lending an umami-rich heft to the beef. The rump of Welsh spring lamb was presented with aplomb, and had me humming the first few bars of Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau. The chocolate delice with pear and hazelnut was the perfect finishing touch; light and sweet and not too rich after devouring such a feast. Beautifully presented, it was a reflection of the ambition that’s at the heart of this friendly, family-run inn. I plan to return for more tastes of the Vale, such as local Pendoylan honey. It’s served with bee pollen and chilled rice pudding over summer. Are you with me? Bee there or bee square!

Our starters really let local flavours shine; in particular, Mand’s Miskin Eggs. Both the shredded duck hash and the new season Wye Valley asparagus were enhanced by the rich duck egg yolks of Caergwanaf Uchaf Farm, nearby. The fillet of mackerel with horseradish Volare Italian Restaurant - Caerphilly When writing up a restaurant review the temptation is to go into fine detail about every dish experienced – rather like a post-holiday conversation with an elderly foodie relative who insists on describing the minutiae of every meal when really all you want to know was that they enjoyed it. Well reader, this Italian gem in Caerphilly was amazing. From start to glorious finish. Done, so you could stop reading now. But you’d be missing out if you did. Volare is run by two relatively young Italian guys with a team comprised of family and friends which makes for a lovely warm atmosphere, friendly faces and welloiled service. First up, cracking Italian meatballs with a twist – wrapped in parma ham with a gooey heart of mozzarella – were layer upon layer of complementary, well-thought-out, savoury flavours in a rich but fresh tomato sauce. The generous fish platter starter of calamari, king prawns and whitebait was cooked perfectly and served in a lovely light tempura tasting as though it had just come off the boat.

Volare Italian Restaurant, 87 Cardiff Rd, Caerphilly CF83 1FQ. Tel. 029 2132 2077 www.volarewales.co.uk

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The rolled seabass main with salmon and prawns is a perfect example. Just like the fish platter it was beautifully fresh and thankfully the chefs’ contribution, other than cooking it perfectly, was subtle. It was not too heavily seasoned and came with a delightful sauce that didn’t distract from the wonderful flavour of each element. If you like fish you’ll love this dish. And then the ‘pièce de résistance’, or Italian equivalent. Home-made tiramisu. A’s something of a connoisseur on Tiramisu having spent the last 20 years trying to find somewhere that can match that of an old friend called Lucia, made to an ancient family recipe. Finally, she’s found it. Apparently, there’s a secret ingredient in Volare’s recipe – there has to be some explanation why espresso, sponge, mascarpone and hazelnut liqueur can taste so magical. Volare’s our new favourite Italian. It should be yours too. But you’ll need to book well in advance for the weekend – your best bet may be a weekday evening, or the excellent value lunch menu.

A’s an expert on mushroom risotto and her reaction to her first mouthful was an involuntary, “Wow. That is really good. Really good.” Forced to elaborate: rich porcini-ness, perfect consistency and a faint al dente bite. The best she’s ever had. Great fish done properly isn’t about strong flavours.

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14/05/2018 00:00:44

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REDHANDED 65 14/05/2018 15:09:48

SPORT Our sports editor Will Burton never tampers with his balls…

Six Nations leaves more questions than answers

For Wales and head coach Warren Gatland there is probably a sense of what might have been when it comes to the NatWest Six Nations Championship. Ireland walked away with the Grand Slam - and deservedly so. But had Wales taken their chances during the final quarters of their defeats at Twickenham and the Aviva Stadium, they might have claimed the top prize in European rugby themselves. Regardless, any number of players put their hands up with strong performances over the course of the seven weeks.

“Cardiff Devils deserve to be recognised as one of Welsh sport’s great success stories”

Rhys Patchell and Gareth Anscombe are now genuine alternatives to Dan Biggar at fly-half, Hadleigh Parkes excelled in the centre, while Aaron Shingler and Josh Navidi made telling contributions in the back row. It means, for the first time in a while, Gatland and his coaching team have several areas of their side where it is no longer absolutely clear what the strongest combination is. Some may argue that uncertainty is not a good thing, but the reality is Wales arguably have more strength in depth now than at any stage since their back-to-back titles of 2012 and 2013. Some 18 months out from the World Cup in Japan, there is a lot to be positive about.

Devils at the double

They may go under the radar of many, but Cardiff Devils deserve to be recognised as one of Welsh sport’s great success stories. The recent 3-2 win over Belfast Giants ensured Andrew Lord’s ice hockey heroes secured back-to-back Elite League regular season crowns. Winning one title is hard enough, to be able to redouble your efforts and back it up marks out a true champion side and this is a period of success that has the potential to go on and rival the golden era of the mid-1990s. With their new Ice Arena Wales home recently opened, and their average attendance figures on an upward trend, there is an awful lot to look forward to for the Devils.

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Chaz’s chance

Chaz Davies has long been among the leading contenders in the Superbike World Championship, but 2018 looks set to give the Welshman his best chance yet of tasting title glory. Davies has had to watch on enviously as Jonathan Rea has romped to a hat-trick of global crowns on the all-conquering Kawasaki, with the Northern Irishman picking up a Sports Personality of the Year nomination in 2017. But, this year, Davies’s Ducati team look to have taken a step forward over the winter and have taken the fight to the Kawasakis over the opening rounds. There is no doubting Davies’ credentials, he is a proven race-winner and frontrunner. If he can maximise his 2018 challenge there is no reason a first title and a potential return to grand prix racing cannot await the 31-year-old.

Giggs can reflect on fine start

Wales may have lost the China Cup final to Uruguay but Ryan Giggs has plenty of reasons to look forward with optimism after events in Nanning. The Manchester United great was not a universally popular choice to take the reins after Chris Coleman’s departure, with some supporters pointing accusatory fingers at his poor record when it came to playing friendly fixtures for his country. The 44-year-old acknowledged results and performances were the only way to silence the doubters, and he has made a good start in that regard. China have proved obdurate opponents for many sides, but they were swept aside 6-0, before Wales gave as good as they got against an accomplished Uruguay side in the final. There were encouraging signs of a more attacking approach, and an increase in depth as Harry Wilson, Declan John, Chris Mepham and Marley Watkins all made notable contributions. Far sterner tests lie ahead, of course, and we will get a better feel for where Wales are under Giggs once the UEFA Nations League kicks off in September. But, as starts go, this was one to be filed under quietly encouraging.

A tantalising place to meet and eat

Cardiff Restaurant of the Year, Food Awards Wales 2018 48 High Street, Llandaff, Cardiff CF5 2DZ 029 2056 4646 www.seren-diemwnt.com info@seren-diemwnt.com

award winning FAMILY RUN FULLY LICENSED FRESH & HEALTHY wide selection of vegan dishes

our location

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REDHANDED 67 14/05/2018 15:36:55

MUSIC REVIEWS ALBUM

GIG

Manic Street Preachers - Resistance Is Futile

Paloma Faith, - Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff

Having gone through so many stylistic twists and turns through their lauded career, the last decade or so has largely seen Blackwood’s favourite sons fall into a familiar groove. Whether it’s the chiming bells of opener People Give In or the joyous refrain of International Blue, the stripped back twang of Vivian or shimmering emotion coursing through Hold Me Like A Heaven it’s James Dean Bradfield’s knack for creating effortlessly catchy vocal melodies that continue to punctuate the most memorable moments from the Manic’s 13th effort. Instead of full-on flirtation with a theme such as last album Futurology’s dalliance with shaking krautrock, each track seems to take on its own character without straying too far from the mould, with the more boisterous 80s poptinged Broken Algorithms sitting next to the blissful synth effects of In Eternity and the sweetly strummed The Left Behind. As ever there are moments of melancholy and a longing look into yesteryear, but all wrapped up in such cleverly presented verve that balance is always achieved. They proclaimed that You Love Us back in 1992 and it’s still the case for this national institution.

Quirky, eccentric and enigmatic are all words that crop up when discussing Paloma Faith, from her music to persona, yet it’s these traits that mark out the most unique performers through musical history. As such it’s no surprise to see a packed Motorpoint totally enthralled by every moment of her performance of The Architect Tour, witnessing an artist who’s equal parts singer, comic and human rights activist, unashamed in her approach to do things on her terms. Dazzling in a sequin playsuit in front of an effervescent backdrop, Paloma is as engaging when she’s commanding the crowd through the party moments of Changing and Lullaby or sultry piano playing of Just Be as she is explaining the messages of motherhood and injustices behind the songs, chattering away as if we’re all old friends. It’s a similar juxtaposition as she wrenches her emotions out one minute while head banging to a squalling guitar solo the next, culminating in a wander through the crowd on a closing Love Me As I Am, much to the excitement of those who’ve spent the evening hanging on her every word and note and continue to provide a raucous chorus as she makes the rounds.

Adam Rees

BALL WINNERS

Attraction Award - Street Food Circus

The champagne flowed, the music rocked and the great and good of Cardiff had a rare old time at the Regional Awards Cardiff Ball in Mercure Holland House. Here’s our pic of 2018’s winners.

The Food Award - Blaenafon Cheddar Co

Restaurant of the Year - Volare

Overall Winner - Vetro Recruitment Hotel of the Year - Radisson Blu 1

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Bar of the Year - Mocka Lounge

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Beverage Industry Award - Brew Monster

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DON’T GET CAUGHT WITHOUT IT

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POP PERFECTION IT’S LOVELY JESS GLYNNE

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NEIL WARNOCK IS FIXING CARDIFF FC

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14/05/2018 14:59:07

BOOKS & FILMS

VEGAN 100

THINKING OUT LOUD

Like all creative fields, food has its trends. For a long time, fine dining – or rather fihn dahning – with its pinkie-in-the-air pretention ruled restaurants. More recently, the dude food diet of burgers, hotdogs and drool-down-your-face grease came along as a democratic rebuff to all that rigid ritzinesss. Now, clean eating has ‘smashed avocado’d’ its way into our kitchens, so much so there’s a worldwide shortage of the green stuff.

What is our problem with grief? For something that’s such a life given, we’re incredibly bad at dealing with it. We shrink from it, turn our faces away like a child who covers their eyes and pretends they can’t be seen. Ironically and inevitably, it’s taken a footballer to give us a straight-talking take on this cultural taboo and how to navigate the profound pain of grieving.

Gaz Oakley £20, Quadrille

As the next logical step, veganism is currently having a culinary moment. Obviously, it’s been around since the dawn of time, but in the past couple of years it’s gained in popularity with people concerned with the effect animal products have on our bodies. Which throws up two clichéd carnivore questions: does vegan food taste any good and is it doable as a long-term lifestyle? According to Cardiff-native chef Gaz Oakley’s debut cookery book the answers are a double ‘yes’. Often vegan (and vegetarian) grub is defined by the absence of meat, sideshow afterthoughts once the main event is off the table. But Oakley’s mission is to unapologetically centre-stage vegan scran as star. So, there are recipes for quarter pounders and chilli dogs, ‘fish’ (it’s tofu and is delicious) and chips and even desserts that don’t scrimp on indulgence. Perfect for die-hards and dabblers alike, the book showcases food, not just vegan food, as the celebratory life-pleasure it is.

DEADPOOL 2 Bring out that 15-year-old child that resides within most of us men, because it’s time for puerile black humour and foul-mouthed flippancy. The original Deadpool was 2016’s unexpected guilty pleasure, and Ryan Reynolds continues his equally unlikely career u-turn as a genuinely amusing actor. Who knew? Self-referential comic-book nerdishness is splattered all over the second instalment, as the title hero recruits a bunch of young charges to take on new villain Cable (Josh Brolin) with satisfyingly ‘stoopid’ results. Will he save the day? Probably. Will there be a bunch of gross-out ultra-violence in the process. Pretty much. Rumours of a cameo from Welsh equivalent Daipool – he’s an actual real thing, apparently – could not be confirmed at time of writing. For fans of: Deadpool; Kick-Ass Verdict: Dead good 4/5

SORRY TO BOTHER YOU The dust might still be settling on this year’s Oscars season, but here’s an early shout for 2019’s shortlist. Splendidly surreal and savagely satirical, Sorry To Bother You uses the medium of telemarketing as a jump-off point to strike at the heart of social and racial issues, with a side order of Inception’s wall-rearranging impact. And all while you spot American comedy top bods. (Oh look, there’s grouchy Terry from Brooklyn Nine-Nine). Lakeith Stanfield, of Atlanta and Get Out fame, steals the show as Cash, even if his chief comic device – the “white voice”, as coined by Danny Glover’s character – isn’t actually from his own throat. A

Rio Ferdinand £20, Hodder & Stoughton

Jason Jones likes nothing more than a nice ripe avocado

When Man U and England veteran Rio Ferdinand’s wife Rebecca died of cancer, predictably his world fell apart. He was plunged into deep shock and started drinking too much. He also had two children to take care of and help through their grief. After years of subscribing to the stereotypical male way of burying feelings because expressing emotion is seen as weakness, he realises pretty quickly that he needs to open up, not only for his own sanity, but also for the sake of his kids. The real takeaway here, though, is that no-one really ‘gets over’ – yes, that casually callous phrase is still bandied about – the death of someone they love. All we ever do is make an uneasy truce with the loss that stays with us for the rest of our lives. That’s not depressing, but actually uplifting because grief is the price we pay for love and from reading this unflinching, affecting and important book, it’s ultimately a price worth paying.

leftfield hit. For fans of: Atlanta, Get Out Verdict: Weird and wonderful 4/5

TAG For whatever reason, Wales’s top acting talent seem to have collectively taken the season off, so our best imminent representative is Rashida Jones. (The Office star has a Welsh surname and a great-grandfather from the nation, genealogy fans.) However, it’s the A-listers – including two of Hollywood’s ‘you’d-like-to-be-them’ leading men in Jon Hamm and Jeremy Renner – who carry this riotously ridiculous but oddly heartwarming tale. It’s based on a true story of a group of friends who maintained a game of tag across decades. Unsurprisingly the game semi-accidentally lends a circle-of-life lilt to the story, elevating Tag beyond silly playground japes. Chuckles abound, too – in fact, it might prove the bro-comedy of the year. For fans of: Anchorman; The Hangover Verdict: You’re it – and so is this 3/5

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At heart, Adam Kennedy’s just a sniggering teenager. Are you?

REDHANDED 71

FULL OF BEANS Katia from Cardiff Bay based Quantum Coffee Roasters explains how their coffee roasting business got off the ground.

many customers that keep supporting us. It’s the chats we have with them, the laughs and the many friendships we have made and keep making!

RedHanded: Who’s involved in the business? Quantum Coffee Roasters: Quantum Coffee Roasters is a family venture, set up by Dimitri and myself, Katia. We have three lovely staff at the moment who have become part of the family.

RH: What makes Quantum special? QCR: We always strive to get the best coffee and products and we never have anything in Quantum that we wouldn’t personally approve of first. This and the buzz and chats with our customers - the personal feeling you get when you come in, as well as great coffee and our expertise in all things coffee is what we feel sets us apart from other coffee shops.

RH: Did you have a relevant background in coffee? QCR: Dimitri worked in hospitality but roasted coffee as a hobby for a number of years in Greece. I was an Architect but had worked with coffee before. We are both passionate and appreciate good coffee, its origins, its history and the methods of brewing and ways of drinking it! We always wanted to do something so we took the plunge. RH: When and why did you start coffee roasting? QCR: Dimitri had roasted coffee beans in Greece years before. We started roasting at Quantum as soon as we opened because we are passionate about the whole process and the journey the coffee bean takes. If you choose the best green coffee beans, it is vital that the roasting process respects the hard work of the farmers – you want the subtleties of each bean to shine. Roasting can destroy those flavours before it even gets anywhere near the brewing. This is where we believe the roaster brings craftsmanship and science together and this is where we go beyond the bean and experiment with the possibilities of coffee! RH: What’s been the progress so far? QCR: We have grown organically for various reasons and this means a lot of things have and are still done slowly. However, this organic growth enables us to take in various aspects of the business, and it gives us the insight to take the next step. We are working towards goals and when one is achieved or well on its way, then we tackle the next one! We are happy with our gradual progress and growth and are constantly learning. RH: What has been the most difficult aspect of setting up and running the business? QCR: They say most new businesses struggle with cash flow and that is definitely true! That and being able to keep up the energy levels and the passion going as running a business can definitely take its toll. For us too, with a little one to look after, it has meant plenty of compromises for our personal life through long hours. origincoffee.co.uk developmentbank.wales

RH: What has been the most rewarding? QCR: Being so busy, the great feedback and the

RH: Did you have a plan for growth from the outset or has it all been quite organic? QCR: We did have a plan but this had to be adjusted quite significantly when we found out we were not allowed to roast within the premises we were using. This resulted in the main part of the business which was the roasting, taking a back step. We had to adjust the business plan to make the coffee house side of the business work harder for itself. However, then, we needed that injection to move a bit faster to the next step. RH: How did Development Bank of Wales come to be involved? QCR: We heard about Development Bank of Wales through our Business Wales advisor helping us with the roaster issue. We also heard from a couple of customers who had a very good experience with them. RH: How have they helped? QCR: We decided that the best way for us to realise our initial business plan was to use a micro loan from the Development Bank of Wales to help us set up our roastery in premises not too far from Quantum coffee. The micro loan has given us the means to get this done much quicker than we would have been able to otherwise and in turn it enables us to grow at the right pace. Organically growing is great but sometimes, an injection of finance and energy is required to get to the next stage, Development Bank of Wales is enabling us to do just that. RH: Advice to anyone looking to do something similar, whether it be coffee or a similar artisan product? QCR: For anyone who is passionate and wishes to take the plunge and do something different then go for it. There is help out there such as Business Wales and the Development Bank of Wales. A solid business plan, determination, hard work, passion and patience will pay off in the end and that is something we both truly believe in!

“Katia and Dimitri are absolutely passionate about their coffee and we were delighted to help them with a small loan to enable them to roast their own coffee beans. Having traded for over two years, the pair were a perfect fit for our fast track application process and a decision within just two days.” We have finance ranging from £1,000 to £5 million for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Donna Strohmeyer Portfolio Executive Micro Loans team

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Call me on 0800 587 4140 or visit developmentbank.wales Please note neither the Development Bank of Wales plc nor its subsidiaries are banking institutions and as such they are not able to take deposits from the public.

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13/05/2018 20:42:11

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THERE’S SNOW BUSINESS LIKE SHOW BUSINESS The show must go on, even if it means Bennett nearly dies

For the past 20 years I have toured the world attempting to make people laugh. Fortunately most of the time I have been successful and most of the time the travelling has been incident free. Except for last week….

Along with Mark, a comedian friend of mine, I was booked to perform at a show in Bournemouth. Although the weather conditions weren’t ideal for a drive to the south coast, we left early and stocked the car up with hot drinks, blankets and shovels. (In truth we actually took two packets of crisps, a cinema bag of Maltesers and an ironic bottle of Lucozade Sport – but I don’t want my mother to know). The journey there was actually pretty fast. There were few cars on the roads as people had been advised not to travel unless it was absolutely necessary. As far as Mark and I were concerned, making the people of Bournemouth laugh was an absolute necessity. The event itself was great fun, a lovely group of people in a very nice hotel. Although we had been offered accommodation, we decided that we would drive straight back as we’d heard that the weather would be bad the following morning and we didn’t want to be stuck in Bournemouth. Which is no slight on Bournemouth, just that we both had things on the following day.

We went back into the car, with the wind and snow howling through the broken window... 74 REDHANDED

Again, when we left, the weather was okay. Cold, but not snowing. However, 30 minutes into the journey, the snow started. And gradually became worse. And worse. One of the major roads we were going to take had been closed due to an accident. So we had to use side roads. This is where things started to go downhill. Literally. At one point, on an incline, a car in front of us slammed on its brakes. Mark, who was driving, did the same. However our car didn’t stop. Instead it skidded, quite gracefully, towards the car in front. Mark attempted to steer out of the way but couldn’t in time and the side of his car smashed against the rear of the stationery vehicle. The back of the other vehicle was damaged as was Mark’s driver’s door and window - which shattered into a kaleidoscope of shapes, before falling out. Insurance details were exchanged and Mark and I, now regretting not having taken up the kind offer of accommodation in Bournemouth, decided to look for

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somewhere to stay overnight. Sadly, akin to some other people who once needed accommodation, there was no room at any inn. So, as we were still able to drive, albeit with the wind and snow coming in through the broken window, we continued our journey home. The driving conditions worsened and more major roads were closed due to accidents. As best we could, we followed the intermittent directions of a faltering Sat Nav, which was probably thinking “Why didn’t you just stay the night?!” At one point we found ourselves driving through a wide open space. This would have been fine until we realised we were no longer on a road. With that, there was a horrific bang and the car stopped. Had we hit something? Had something hit us? We got out of the car and discovered that we had driven over a large rock and the wheels of the car were virtually off the ground. We tried every way to move the car but to no avail. We were stranded. There was nothing around as far as the eye could see – which wasn’t that far due to the bad visibility caused by the icy blizzard. We had no signals on our phones so couldn’t call for help or use Google maps to know in which direction we should walk. We went back into the car, with the wind and snow howling through the broken window, and looked at each other. We literally did not know what to do. We must have sat there, in silence, for about 30 minutes. We then saw, in the distance behind us, headlights. We quickly got out of the car and flagged down the passing vehicle. It was a van. The driver got out, shovel in hand (my mother would have been proud of him) and came to help. However he could see that the car could not be moved. We asked him where he was going. Incredibly his intended journey virtually would pass my house! I asked if we could have a lift to anywhere close to where we lived. He was happy to help. We got into the back of the van, shaking with cold and with our fingers frozen. Along the journey with our new best friend, we almost skidded off the road twice due to the awful conditions and had to stop whilst he helped four other men push the car of a stranded woman. We would have helped but they were all a lot stronger than us. Three hours later and Jay, our driver and saviour, dropped us off outside my house. Yes, he drove us home. (Well, he drove me home and Mark got a taxi to his house but that’s not the point). The Press and TV is usually so full of stories about bad and evil people that we sometimes forget about the good ones. Jay, who saved us from….well, I’m scared to think, is one of those good ones. © Bennett Arron Spring 2018 See what Bennett’s up to at www.bennettarron.com Follow Bennett on Twitter @bennettarron

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An authentic selection of Turkish, Kurdish, Greek and Mediterranean dishes in a warm and friendly, relaxed, environment. ~ the best ingredients, hand-prepared daily ~ Lemon Sole now available ~ traditional Ocakbashi charcoal grill for a genuine taste of the med ~ ~ hot and cold meze, kebabs, fresh fish, vegetarian and special dishes ~ ~ fully licensed bar with a range of beers from Italy, Greece and Turkey, wines from Turkey, Spain, Italy and Portugal and a large selection of spirits ~ Arguably the best eastern Mediterranean restaurant in Cardiff and voted one of the Top Five kebab restaurants in the UK by The Times

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