Swansea Life Mar 2017 by Sam Moon

SWA NSE A

LIFE www.swansealife.co.uk

WIN! £200 TO SPEND AT

MARCH 2017 £2.95

Spring

Fever YOUR ULTIMATE TRENDS GUIDE

MUM’S THE WORD Perfect gifts for Mother’s Day

A PLACE TO

UNWIND

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NEW SEASON INSPIRATIONS

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WHY YOU FELL IN LOVE

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Contents... M A R C H

SWA NSEA

LIFE

EDITOR Peter Slee | 01792 545530 @PeterSlee56 | peter.slee@swwmedia.co.uk

2 0 1 7

14. SPRING TRENDS We’ve alot to look forward to 18. TIME TO BLOOM Florals and bold blooms, the best of the bunch from the High Street 30. TRUE BLUE Make denim the star attraction in your wardrobe this spring

HAIR & BEAUTY 54. BEAUTY PRODUCTS WITH A PURPOSE Multi-use your beauty products 60. RAINBOW BRIGHTS How to work the rainbow trend in the real world 67. LOVE IT! Beauty we love this month

DEPUTY EDITOR Laura Davies 01792 545523 | @lawsDx laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

72 HEALTH & WELLBEING

PUBLISHER Lisa Cameron | lisa.cameron@swwmedia.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Adrian White, Jonathan Myers, Gayle Marsh, Hoosh Arabi, Steve Phillips, Robert Melen & Richie Crossley CONTRIBUTORS Lara Johnson & Dom Capel, Lesley Taylor, Richard Hammond, Sian Day, Victoria Wade, Joseph Atkin, Andrew Morgan, Charlotte Rogers, Dr. Charlotte Jones, Chris Howells, James Richards Marc White and Chris Peregrine

FASHION

80. FOOD BENEFITS Discover the goodness of oats 84. FILL UP 10 foods to keep you fuller for longer

86. FOOD FIGHT! Smart swaps and making the right decisions

Swansea Life, Urban Village, High Street, Swansea, SA1 1NW @swansealife Email: peter.slee@swwmedia.co.uk www.swansealife.co.uk

Swansea Life is published by Media Wales, a subsidiary company of Trinity Mirror PLC, which is a member of IPSO, the independent Press Standards Organisation. We adhere to the Editor’s Code of Practice as enforced by IPSO who are contactable for advice at IPSO, Halton House, 20/23 High Holburn, EC10 2JD.

Average net distribution 7,500 copies sold and distributed in Swansea, Gower and the surrounding South West Wales areas. Opinions expressed in Swansea Life magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or designer and the magazine is in no way liable for such opinions. While every effort has been made to ensure that the contents are fully accurate, we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies and late changes. No article, advertisement or graphic, in whole or in part, may be reproduced without prior permission of the publishers.

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FOOD & DRINK 92. THE FLAVOURS OF THE SIX NATIONS ...with food blogger Nathan Lloyd 94. TIME FOR TEA The six best gadgets for brewing up 104. HOME COOKING ...with Sian Day

94 01/03/2017 21:12

WHAT’S ON 182. DIARY DATES... ...Swansea’s best events this March

184. WIN TICKETS... ...to this years RHS Flower show in Cardiff 186. INTERVIEW... ...with Sam Bailey

182

GREAT ESCAPES

SOCIAL DIARY

160. SKI HEAVEN Try a new kind of ski holiday

196. CELEBRATIING... ...the Chinese New Year

162. THE GROVE Classic style and innovative indulgence

204. BURNS NIGHT DINNER... ...at Marriott Hotel, Swansea

163. WEEKEND GETAWAY Ashford Estate in Cong, Ireland

206. WEDDING The marriage of Cath Perry & Ashley St Leger

160

168

OUT & ABOUT 168. SNAP SHOTS OF SWANSEA BAY This month Richard Hammond visits Pwll Du 172. BEST FOOT FORWARD Andrew Morgan visits Clyne in early bloom

HOUSE & HOME

121

?? TIME FOR YOU

121. LESLEY TAYLOR How make the most of your home’s most underused space

214. MUM’S THE WORD Shower your mum with gifts this Mothering Sunday

138. JOSEPH ATKIN ...March magic

216. BOUNCING BACK Solicitor Jayne Thomas on learning to live with Cardiomyopathy

110. THROUGH THE KEYHOLE ...with Greg & Louise James

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230. I WANT THAT Swansea Life’s ‘must haves’ for March

24/02/2017 09:52

E D I TO R’ S L E T TE R

LAURA DAVIES

DEPUTY EDITOR 01792 545523 laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

Welcome... MARK REES IT is with a huge, optimistic smile that we launch into the March edition of Swansea Life. Why? Well, yes because it is the time of the year when we begin to look forward rather than back! But also, because we reckon the magazine really does celebrate some seasonal gems within its pages this month bestriding the late-winter/early spring divide like a papery colossus and packed with stories and features devoted to the area we all enjoy so much.

WHAT’S ON EDITOR 01792 545529 mark.rees@swwmedia.co.uk

When you are in love with Swansea as the team here is – not just its shops and restaurants but also the people who frequent them – the onset of every new season is a minor delight because of what comes with it. So we have been kicking back and chatting to your friends, your neighbours and your families. What they have been telling us makes up so much of what is included in these pages. The worlds of fashion and interiors are here as we leave the greyness of winter behind. There’s also the chance to discover inspiration when it comes to that all-important ‘ me’ time too whether it is simply a walk through Gower, cooking and baking with tips from one of our great local columnists or catching a favourite show or exhibition locally.

DEBBIE ROBERTS

ADVERTISING MANAGER 01792 545626 debbie.roberts@swwmedia.co.uk

Enjoy the issue, and have a wonderful spring.

SWA NSE A

LIFE www.swansealife.co.uk

WIN! £200 TO SPEND AT

MARCH 2017 £2.95

Spring

Fever YOUR ULTIMATE TRENDS GUIDE

JESSICA HAMMETT

SOCIAL MEDIA swansealifemag@swwmedia.co.uk

MUM’S

THE WORD Perfect gifts for Mother’s Day

A PLACE TO

UNWIND

Coastal home owners tell their stories

PETER SLEE

EDITOR

01792 545530 peter.slee@swwmedia.co.uk @PeterSlee56

Find us on Facebook @SwanseaLife

Editor'sPage_SLMAR17.indd 1

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NEW SEASON INSPIRATIONS

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COVER IMAGE: Model wears Camilla Top, £89; Makarni Printed Skirt, £149; Coast at Debenhams, Swansea, coast-stores.com

SAM JONES

GRAPHIC DESIGNER 01239 460210 sam@yourlocalcrowd.co.uk

24/02/2017 13:31

Swansea lives OUR PICK OF THE MONTH’S BEST PARTY GET-TOGETHERS (FROM PAGE 190)

STRADEY PARK HOTEL & SPA 

Treat your mum 192

WEDDING

198

WOMENS AID

204

BURNS NIGHT

190 JCP LAUNCH PARTY

206

WEDDING

3 course with a special

lunch y a D ’s r e h t o M 017 26th March, 2 Sunday

)

rice (Children ½ p p p 0 .5 6 2 £ only

208 FUNDRAISER

To book please contact Stradey Park Hotel & Spa, Llanelli SA15 4HA Telephone: 01554 758171 Email: reservations@stradeyparkhotel.com

www.swansealife.co.uk | 7

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PREMIER MENSWEAR SPECIALISTS

Solid Gold, is the premier menswear fashion store found within the Llanelli area. A privately owned business with a 33 year history in delivering excellent service with contemporary fashion labels.

“Definitely worth a visit”

Tel: 01554 758895 • 5 Stepney Precinct, Llanelli, SA15 1YN info@solidgoldmenswear.com • solidgoldmenswear.com

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Fashion

FASHION FLASH (page 13) SUNSHINE STATE (page 20) BRIGHT BLOCKS (page 27) TRUE BLUE (page 30)

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Ladies fashion boutique in the heart of Talbot Green Our beautiful shop offers a wide collection of ladieswear to suit all ages, from size 10-24, from all around Europe. At Boutique Box we have plenty of experience and offer personal, honest advice to all ladies making sure that they look elegant and feel amazing. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re off to the races, Mother of the Bride/Groom or just looking for that special outfit, we will do our best to make you look your best. 22 Stuart Terrace, Talbot Green, RCT, CF72 8AA (next to the Post Office)

T: 07712 448864

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FASHION

FA S H I O N F L A S H

IN THE JUNGLE!

Combining dark florals and an abundance of ruffles, the Peacocks Signature collection, which lands this month, offers lots of drama for your dosh. Pair this lace blouse with a leather skirt and over-the-knee boots for a fiercely feminine look. Peacocks Black Blouse, £18, Peacocks, Morriston and Swansea

Khaki Bee Embroidered Utility Jacket, £44.99, New Look, Swansea

Trousers, £32, Asos.com

Palm prints, zebra prints and khaki will continue to rule this season. It’s time to go wild!

Style Steal

Camo Jacquard Jacket £78; Khaki Parka £78; Metallic Printed Dress, £32; Printed Dress £28; Next, Morfa Retail Park and Parc Fforestfach

Zebra Print mules, £59, Top Shop, Swansea

PRINTS

Playful prints and pretty patterns to mix and match to suit your mood SHOW PIECE Nine by Savannah Miller Pale Pink Bird Embroidered Midi Dress, £75, Debenhams, Swansea THE SILK ROUTE Flat Oriental Mules, £19.99, New Look, Swansea

HORSEPLAY Painted Horses Reverse Coated Tote, £38, Cath Kidston, Cardiff

POST A MESSAGE Love The Little Things Scarf, £22.50, The White Stuff

BUY IT NOW

Mamas & Papas has partnered with ubercool Frame gyms on a range of maternity fitnesswear. Whether you’re stretching it out at pregnancy yoga, or just want something comfy to ‘athleisure’ around in, the mostly monochrome collection of leggings, joggers and tees is stylish and affordable, with prices starting at £19.

GRACEFUL

TREAT MUM!

@LawsDx

X Frame Super Soft Jumper, £34, and Slim Leg Joggers, £29, Mamas & Papas, Cardiff

laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

Why not treat your mum to a Pandora bracelet on Mothering Sunday. We love this Moments Sterling Silver Bangle with Loving Heart Clasp, £65, and Sterling Silver Mother and Daughter Hearts Pendant Charm, £50, Pandora, Swansea Quadrant

GET THE LOOK...

Maida Top, £99. Hobbs, John Lewis, Cardiff

W I T H L AU R A DAV I E S

Head to Coast for your seasonal fix of elegant showstopper dresses and separates. The Hally Artwork Dress features a beautiful sheer overlay detail that flows gracefully down into the statement skirt. Sheer is a massive trend this spring so get the net flowing! Hally Artwork Dress, £179, Coast at Debenhams, Swansea

Abbey Clancy wowed at the Brit Awards in this season’s must-have trend – asymmetrical. For a more subtle and less revealing dress, we love this crepe contrast monocrome dress by Gina Bacconi, £220, John Lewis, Cardiff

www.swansealife.co.uk | 13

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FASHION

KEEN SL

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IN THE PINK

From Chloe’s powder pink babydoll frocks to Balmain’s floor-sweeping raspberry suede overcoat and everything in-between, the rosy hue was inescapable on the catwalks, offering a multitude of ways to style it. Even those who’ve previously swor n off the shade, thinking it too ‘girly girl’, will find it hard to resist the grungy allure of fuchsia lace, or blush pink velvet paired with black leather. Angel Sleeve Midi Dress, £65; Dram a Black Studded Biker Boots, £49; Blac k Mesh Socks, £3.50, Miss Selfridge, Swansea

Maggie S u £75, Top ede Ankle Boots , Shop, Sw ansea

Tie Front Tea Dress, £25, Miss Selfridge, Swansea

TILT SHIFT

As for hem lines, designers are making a strong cas e neither-he for the re-n as part of an or-there hanky hem sk overall mo ve towards irt, asymmetr y. The most extreme e came at Sai xample nt Laurent, with a ‘one dress that required a shoulder’ nipple cove the model’s r to preserv modesty e for everyd try, a wrap ay asymm skirt is a sa efer bet. Elvi Suede Effe ct Contrast Sk irt, £65, www. elvi.co.uk

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Closet London Tie Front Shirt with 3/4 Length Sleeves, £52, www.closetlondon.com

14 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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HAVANA BALL

Flamenco floun ce has been making w aves on the catwalks fo r a couple of seasons now, but this summer the tre nd really comes into its own on the high street , with an inject ion of steamy Cub an style. Ruffled dresses and bl ouses have be en rendered in su nset shades an d tropical prints , read nights on the be y for balmy ach (or the dance floor).

Peacocks Halter Double Layer Dress, £16, Peacocks, Llanelli

5; h Top, £4 Autograp rousers, T n Collectio S, Swansea & £29.50, M

Bl Tail ue Ru ore f £23 d T fle Co , Do rous l e d Sh rot hy P rs, £2 oulde erk 5; W r To ins, p Swa hite an , £22; ON THE R d n s Silv Strip ea IGHT LINE er P ed Prada and S Lanvin serv lim ed up Wal sol McCartne l ls, Street-wo y patchwo rthy pinstri rked hers; seemed B pes; Stella while at Fe eetlejuice ndi and Nin was the insp bands. a Ricci, it iration for wide black However yo and white u choose to wear them , stripes fe el so right for spring.

V by Very Deep Cuff Cotton Shirt, £30, Very.co.uk

GET THE LOOK

Fearne Cotton ticked off spring’s biggest colour trend at the Garnier Ultimate Blends launch party last week. Teaming her bubblegum pink ASOS knit with wet-look trousers and silver heels, the presenter showed us how to turn a wintry woollen into a really party piece.

Blue Strip e Shirt, £ 28, River Isla nd, Swan sea

GET SHIRTY

ASOS High Neck Jumper with Cable Sleeves, £30, www.asos.com

The classic white button-down takes a back seat for spring, as deconstructed shirts come to the fore, with workmanlike blue playing up the mannish associations. Styled simply, these remixed staples elevate an ensemble with minimal effort.

Navy Wit h Nude Stripe Mid And Ivory Dorothy P i Dress, £24, erkins, Sw ansea

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FASHION 12. Floral printed midi dress, £45, Dorothy Perkins, at Outfit, Parc Troste

13. Franchesca Dress, £140, Debenhams, Phase Eight, Swansea

1. Antonella Dress, £99, Monsoon, Parc Trostre 2. Star by Julien Macdonald dress, £79, Debenhams, Swansea 3. Hollie Jacquard Dress, £110, Phase Eight, Debenhams, Swansea 4. Dress, £59, Top Shop, Swansea 5. Gingham floral print dress, £69, House of Fraser, Cardiff

10 3

DRESS UP!

LAURA DAVIES picks out some of the latest new season dresses

laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

6 7

6. Pink Long Sleeve Dress, £22.99, New Look, Swansea 7. Autograph Dress, £55, M&S, Parc Trostre

14. Dress, £155, House of Fraser, Cardiff

8. Jacquard prom dress, £85, Next, Morfa Retail Park 15. Yellow cold shoulder frill dress, £50, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

9. Dress, £70, River Island, Swansea 10. Dress, £265, Joseph Ribkoff, www.josephribkoff.com 11. Kyto Printed Dress, £110, Phase Eight, Swansea

16 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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FASHION

HIGH STREET HOTTEST

2 2

3 5

1. Blouse, £27.99; Jeans, £27.99; Sliders £19.99; 2. Black Floral Print Blouse £19.99 3. Black Floral Print One Shoulder Blouse, £19.99 4. Blue High Waisted Trousers, £24.99 5. Silver Black Stone Statement Choker, £19.99 6. Pink Balloon Sleeves Jumpers, £17.99 7. Blue Suede Tote Bag £44.99 8. Innocence Black Gingham Check Frill Trim Shirt Dress £24.99 9. Silver Sling Back Sandals, £18.99

1. Sequin detail top, £32 2. Longline quilted bomber, £60 3. Sequin joggers, £50 4. Pleated top, £65 5. Colour block sporty jacket, £42 6. Black ottoman sporty mini skirt, £28 7. Navy Cotton 2 Tie Waist Dress, £38; Citrine Mini Grab Bag, £32

LAURA DAVIES shops this season’s High Street styles

laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

18 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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1 1. Coat, £85 2. Shoes, £59 3. Bag, £80 4. Top, £42; 5. Dress, £49; 6. Jeans, £55; T-Shirt, £18; Boots, £69

4 3

2 4 3

5 5

1. Red suit jacket £40; Red suit trousers £25 2. Floral Top, £25 3. Denim Patchwork Jeans, £28 4. Yellow Peplum Top, £26 5. Green Embroidered Midi Skirt, £45 6. White Ruffle Sleeve Blouse, £30 7. Embroidered Grey Cross Body Bag, £25 8. Blue Bow Pointed Court Heels, £30

1. Pink Dot Dress, £16, Pink Biker Jacket, £28 2. White Embroidered Jumper, £16 3. Black Lace Embroidered Dress, £22 4. Leopard Bag, £12 5. Navy Floral Bomber, £16 6. Orange Ruffle Top, £10 7. Stripe Slingback Flats, £10

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FASHION

Sweatshirt, £22, Asos.com

Frill Detail Sweater, £28, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Off Shoulder Top with Drawstring, £89, Jaeger, Cardiff Botanica Skirt, £109, Monsoon, Parc Trostre

Cross Mules, £19.99, New Look, Swansea

SUNSHINE STATE Peplum Top, £26, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

Denvie bag, £65, Dune at Debenhams, Swansea

Sunshine yellow has been given a warm boost with a sticky infusion of golden honey and buttercup tones. LAURA DAVIES goes all sunny happy. laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

Top, £34, Top Shop, Swansea

Shoe, £59, Top Shop, Swansea

Ruffle Detail Mini Dress, £42, Glamorous.com

Trousers, £45, Top Shop, Swansea

Jacket, £75, River Island, Parc Trostre

Wide Leg Cropped Trousers, £19.99, New Look, Swansea

Cullotte Jumpsuit, £58, Asos.com

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DRESSING IN STYLE FOR MOTHERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DAY

A L L

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A V A I L A B L E

A T

N E X T . C O . U K

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N E X T. C O . U K AT AVA I L A B L E A L L

BRUNCHING L AY E R

L A C E

D E TA I L S

FOR MOTHER’S DAY

T H AT

M O D E R N

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L A C E U P G R A P H I C T E E £ 2 2 | L A C E P E N C I L S K I R T £ 3 5 | W H I T E S I L I C O N E WAT C H £ 2 6 L E AT H E R G R E Y B A G £ 3 6 | G O L D B L O C K S A N D A L £ 3 8

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S U M M E R

‘ 1 7

TA K E T H E

I N F L U E N C E

S P O R T S

A N D

S T E P

L U X E O U T

I N

F R O M T R E N D S S T Y L E

STROLL IN T H E PA R K

C R O P P E D F L O R A L C O AT £ 3 2 | W H I T E C A R D I H O O D Y £ 3 0 | G R U N G E W H I T E T E E £ 1 4 PINK WASH JEANS £ 2 6 | MINK TRAINER £ 3 5 | BLACK RUCKSACK £ 3 4

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S U M M E R

‘ 1 7

DINNER AND DRINKS

G O

F O R

T E X T U R A L

C O M B I N AT I O N R E A L

S TA N D

F O R

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L O O K !

G R E Y V E L V E T J A C K E T £ 6 8 | B L U S H V I N TA G E B O W D R E S S £ 5 8 | B L U S H M U L E £ 3 0 BLACK WEAVE BAG £ 2 4 | PINK NECKLACE £ 1 2 | PINK BRACELET £ 1 2

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23/02/2017 19:41:30

N E X T. C O . U K AT AVA I L A B L E A L L

HITTING THE SHOPS P L A N N I N G K E E P W I T H

B U S Y

D AY

Y O U R

L O O K

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F U N

G R A P H I C

O U T ?

L O G O !

G R E Y G R A P H I C S W E AT £ 2 5 | 9 0 ’ s P I N K WA S H S K I R T £ 2 4 N U D E B O W S K AT E R £ 3 5 | B L A C K S P O R T S B A G £ 2 4

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COMPETITION

WIN £200 TO SPEND AT NEXT

SWANSEA LIFE HAS TEAMED UP WITH NEXT TO GIVE ONE LUCKY READER THE CHANCE TO WIN A £200 SPEND IN NEXT SWANSEA STORES. TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE OF WINNING, ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION...

TELL US WHY YOU DESERVE TO WIN A NEW SPRING/SUMMER FASHION MAKEOVER. SEND YOUR ANSWERS ON A CARD, WITH YOUR DETAILS AND A DAYTIME TELEPHONE NUMBER TO LAURA DAVIES, NEXT COMPETITION 220 HIGH STREET SWANSEA SA1 1NW OR EMAIL LAURA.DAVIES@SWWMEDIA.CO.UK ALL ENTRIES SHOULD ARRIVE BY NOON ON THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017. *NORMAL SWWMEDIA RULES APPLY

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FASHION

BRIGHT BLOCKS laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

8 6

1. Yellow Frill Trim Long Sleeve Skater Dress, £24.99, New Look, Swansea | 2. Danessa Dress, £130, Phase Eight, Debenhams, Swansea 3. Dress, £22.99, New Look, Swansea | 4. Royal Blue Dress, £249, Hobbs at John Lewis, Cardiff | 5. Floozie by Frost French, £39, Debenhams, Swansea 6. Blue Plait Detail Tassel Suede Cross Body Bag, £55, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Retail Park | 7. Therapy London Yellow patent bag, £40, House of Fraser, Cardiff | 8. Pina Colada shoe, £45, Asos.com | 9. Yellow Pointed Flats, £12, George at Asda, Gorseinon | 10. Bright Blue Heeled Mules, £36, Wallis at Outfit, Parc Trostre | 11. Jumper, £19.99, New Look, Parc Fforestfach | 12. Pink High Necked Blouse, £45, Miss Selfridge, Swansea 13. Star by Julien Macdonald jacket, £39, Debenhams, Swansea | 14. Mustard Tie Front Top, £25, Glamorous.com

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FASHION

GO GREEN Vivid, fresh green is not only “The” shade of 2017 it is perfect for injecting some zest into your wardrobe. LAURA DAVIES reveals how to go “greenery” in time for St Patrick’s Day on March 17. laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

Quite the departure from last year’s muted rose quartz and ‘serenity’ blue duo, ‘Greenery’ has been declared. Colour of the Year for 2017. According to the experts at Pantone, the yellowy-green hue is “illustrative of flourishing foliage and the lushness of the great outdoors”. Now, chances are you haven’t got a whole lot of it in your wardrobe at the moment, but you needn’t be afraid of this limey bright, which will really come into its own as we head into spring and, eventually, summer. The way you wear this shade will vary depending on your dominant colour category. We offers some advice on how to style this succulent shade...

Beyonce

Skirt, £35, River Island, Swansea

Emma Stone

V By Very Contrast Metallic Rib Sweater, £35, Very.co.uk

Julianne Moore

GOLDEN GIRLS Colour category: warm and golden Celebrity matches: Julianne Moore, Emma Stone, Beyonce If you have warm/strawberry blonde to auburn hair, and pale to dark skin, this shade will look fabulous head-to-toe. All you’ll need to add is gold jewellery - in a size and shape that reflects your personality. Those who are dramatic and warm may want to try some more unusual colour combinations, perhaps a pop of pumpkin or primrose to really spice things up. Butterfly by Matthew Williamson Dress, £160, Debenhams, Swansea Yellow Peplum Top, £26; Floral Embroidered Midi Skirt, £45; Dorothy Perkins, Outfit, Parc Trostre

Cameron Diaz

Gwyneth Paltrow

Jennifer Lawrence

J by Jasper Conran Floral Print Bikini Top, £28, and Bottoms, £18, Debenhams, Swansea

LIGHT LADIES Colour category: light and delicate Celebrity matches: Jennifer Lawrence, Gwyneth Paltrow, Cameron Diaz Those who have light to dark blonde hair, light eyes and pale skin should try to reduce the contrast level between the colours you choose. Opt for subtle shades like soft white, stone and taupe. For the dramatics amongst you, try pairing greenery with coral pink an utterly show-stopping combination.

Precis Petite Peggy Placement Flared Dress, £149, House of Fraser, Cardiff

28 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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Celebrity Images by Getty Images

Leaf Print Culottes, £35, House of Fraser, Cardiff

Lupita Nyong’o

Melania Trump

Kendall Jenner

DEEP DIVAS

Colour category: deep and contrasting Celebrity matches: Kendall Jenner, Melania Trump, Lupita Nyong’o If you have strong colouring - i.e. dark hair, dark eyes and porcelain to black skin tone ideally you should pair greenery with a contrasting shade. Neutrals like charcoal, black and navy will work well. You could also pair greenery with damson, for a rich, Colour Block Tote, £30, JD contrasting combinaWilliams, www.jdwilliams.co.uk tion, or pure white for a striking look for summer. Geometric Jacquard Jacket, £35; Pleat Front Blouse, £26; Black Denim Jeggings, £22, M&Co, Cardiff

Courtney Cox

Colour category: Clear and Bright Celebrity matches: Emma Willis, Courteney Cox, Dannii Minogue For those with clear eyes and brown to black hair, greenery is one of the most flattering shades you could choose. Wear it as a block colour teamed with jewellery, or contrast it with hues such as navy, black, pure white and royal blue. If you would like to make a statement, add purple as an additional garment, bag, jewellery or shoes.

Emma Willis

BRIGHT-EYED BABES

JD Williams Green Built Up Strappy Cami, £14, www.jdwilliams.co.uk

Dannii Mingue

East Handkerchief Hem Top, £75, East, John Lewis, Cardiff

White Stuff Sprig Green Pepperpot Knit Jumper, £45, White Stuff, Cardiff

East Silk Blend Pom Pom Scarf, £35, East, John Lewis, Cardiff

Judi Dench

Colour category: cool and rosy Celebrity matches: Judi Dench, Helen Mirren This shade requires some “cooling down” if you have silver, white or salt-and-pepper hair. Your best option is to add it as an accessory, or wear it away from your face. Any shade of grey from light to dark - would be a great option, as would navy or white. Greenery teamed with violet would be an absolute head-turner!

Helen Mirren

COOL CATS

Topshop Razzmatazz Facet Mules, currently reduced to £25 from £52, Top Shop, Swansea

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Dark Wash Denim Jacket, £40; One Shoulder White Top, £28; Jeans, £26; Next, Morfa Retail Park and Swansea

Capion

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TRUE BLUE Make denim the star attraction in your wardrobe this spring. LAURA DAVIES picks out the top buys hitting the High Street laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

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Caption

Stripe Shirt, £30; Ripped Jeans, £26; Oversized Hoop Earrings, £4; Next, Parc Trostre and Morfa Retail Park

32 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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RI Studio Blue Stripe Wrap Back Shirt, £45; Jeans, £40; Trainers, £24; River Island, Swansea

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RI Studio Blue and White Stripe Dress, £75; Jeans, £40; River Island, Swansea

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Blue Two Tones Skinny Jeans, £29.99; Blue Two Tones Off Shoulder Blouse, £24.99; Pink Velvet Loafers, £27.99; New Look, Swansea, Parc Fforestfach and Parc Trostre

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HAIR & BEAUTY

SPRING FASHION TRENDS AT Spring has nearly sprung and with that means a new wardrobe refresh. Yay! With helping hand. LAURA DAVIES meets up with our friends at Fforestfach

CLARKS

Agean Cool Sandals, £60

Kamara Kiki Wedge Heeled Sandals, £45

Damara Closed Pumps, £60

Mesh Khaki Top, £30 Grey Wide Crop Trousers, £35, Bag £24, Shoes, £35

Barley Belle T-Bar Sandals, £50

M&S

M&S Collection Dress, £39.50; M&S Collection Silver Sporty Bucket Bag, 29.50

H&M loves Coachella £34.99

Sandals £17.99

Clutch Bag £6.99

Top, £25; Skirt, £45

Visit Fforestfach Retail Parc and make sure you select the perfect spring wardrobe. Big Brands, great stores and fantastic shopping all year round - Swansea’s premier outdoor shopping location has it all. 36 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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FFORESTFACH RETAIL PARC so many key trends to choose from we thought we would give you a little bit of a Retail Parc to pick out some of the key looks for the new season…

NEW LOOK Black Floral Embroidered Heeled Sandals, £29.99

Top £60; Pinny Dress £35; Ruffled Boots, £85

Pink Frill Blouse, £15.99

Red Longline Blouse Dress, £44.99

Blue High Waisted Trousers £24.99

White Floral Print Shirt £24.99

Pink Circle Handle Bag, £15.99

H&M

RIVER ISLAND

Dress, £24.99

Earrings £12; Shirt £35; Belt £14; Skirt £48

Striped blouse £32; Sunglasses £16; Jeans £45; Rucksack £32 Frilled Vest Top £39.90

Earings £12.99

www.facebook.com/fforestfachretailparc www.twitter/fforestfach_rp Website: www.fforestfachretailparc.co.uk

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Gingham Floral Detail Slip On Plimsolls, £18.99, New Look, Parc Trostre

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Gingham Shopper Bag, £20, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Road Park

Gingham floral print dress, £69, House of Fraser, Cardiff

Gingham Frill Blouse, £29.99, New Look, Parc Fforestfach

Gingham Cami, £16, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Lost Ink Gingham Jumpsuit, £55, Littlewoods.com

laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

Gingham gets a new lease of life this season and is this year not all about the kids’ summer school dresses. Pair your picnic piece with block colours or compliment your whites for a fresh and modern look. LAURA DAVIES goes Gingham style

GETTING THE GINGHAM GROOVE

Gingham tie detail midi dress, £40, River Island, Swansea

Red Herring, £26, Debenhams, Swansea

FASHION Lilac ruffle top, £28; Gingham Bodycon Pencil Skirt, £30; Grey Wrap Heels, £42; Wallis at Outfit, Parc Trostre

38 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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A HIDDEN GEM AT THE HEART OF SWANSEA ... TYLER JENKINS JEWELLERY is a small family business selling contemporary jewellery and is run by brother and sister Beth and Jonathan Jenkins. Beth and Jonathan have been in various shops in Swansea and renamed the business TYLER JENKINS JEWELLERY 15 years ago. Now back in one of the original premises in Plymouth Street, two shops combined into one, designed to create and showcase the many UK and international brands including Nomination Italy, Sif Jakobs and Coeur de Lion. Also designs from the UK Award winning jewellery designer of the year 2014 Collette Waudby. New this season we have a range of rings from Germany called Qudo. Stainless steel bands with interchangeable ring tops, made from Swarovski crystals in many different colours and styles.

We look forward to presenting this new brand. Also from Azendi their Spirited Away collection featuring feather earrings, necklaces and bracelets in sterling silver and yellow and rose gold vermeil. Added to last seasons introductions of Les Georgettes from Paris, Aurum by Gudbjorg from Iceland and Gulldia from Norway, we are looking forward to the introduction of our new collections. Due to the popularity of Nomination Charms and jewellery, we will be having a small refit at the end of March and or April and we will keep you updated nearer the time. We will still continue with all our other suppliers such as Ti2 Titanium, Trollbeads, Tiangus Jackson, and Danish Design Watches etc which we think will all be enhanced by our Spring refit. Mothers Day will soon be upon us so we look forward to seeing you.

4 + 5 Plymouth Street | Swansea | SA1 3QQ | T: 01792 475805

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FASHION

My Little Bestie t-shirt from, £6, George at Asda, Parc Troste

KIDS ZONE Embroidered Cardigan, £8, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Gilet from £27, Hoodie from £13, Sporty leggings from £9 and Trainers from £21, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Floral hoody, £12.50, Next, Swansea

Applique Elephant Footless Sleepsuit, £16, Jo Maman Bebe, Cardiff

Baby girls yellow ‘I Love Mummy’ top, £7, M&Co, Cardiff

All-Over-Print Jacquard Dress, from £42, Baker by Ted Baker Debenhams, Swansea Younger Girls Giraffe Cross Body Bag, £12, M&S, Swansea

Denim jacket, £35, River Island, Swansea

Pink outfit, £7, George at Asda, Llansamlet

Stripe top, £18, M&S, Swansea

44 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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Okay so its Mother’s Day this month, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t treat you little cherubs to a new seasonal wardrobe. LAURA DAVIES picks out the items which you won’t be able to resist buying

Boys Knitted Jumper Yellow, £14, M&S, Swansea

@LawsDx

Knitted Hooded Cardigan, £10, George at Asda,

Boys Jumper, £14, River Island, Parc Trostre

Boys Slogan T-shirt, £5, M&Co, Cardiff

Snake T-Shirt, £15, JoJo Maman Bebe, Cardiff

Monkey Applique Sleepsuit, £16, JoJo Maman Bebe, Cardiff

Stripe Polo Top, £4, George at Asda, Llansamlet Striped Jumper, £7, George at Asda, and Parc Troste

Shirt, £10; Jeans, £15; Trainers, £18; Sunglasses, £7, River Island, Swansea

Dinosaur print hoody, £11, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Boys Knit Stripe Body, £12, M&S, Parc Trostre

laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

Stripe Jacket, £9, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

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01/03/2017 20:49

Hair &

beauty

BEAUTY NEWS (from page 51) SPRING TRENDS (page 63) LARA JOHNSON (page 72) RAINBOW BRIGHTS (page 60)

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Natural beauty that looks untouched.....

Defy Time With Dr Alan Jones

30 years experience as a GP

15 years as a Cosmetic Doctor Member of:

British College of Aesthetic Medicine • (BCAM) British Association of Body Sculpting • (BABS) British Association of Sclerotherapy (BAS) • GMC registered • HIW registered Clinic •

The range of treatment offered at our clinic has certainly benefited from Dr Jones’ continued enthusiasm for attending conferences world-wide. The extent and diversity of these treatments, together with our expertise, enables us to create a bespoke treatment for each individual. Never before has it been possible to tailor the treatment so specifically to suit your individual needs. FREE NO OBLIGATION CONSULTATION 466 Gower Road, Killay, Swansea, SA2 7DZ

01792 208466 Private Car Park

www.defy-time.co.uk GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

TURN YOUR BACK ON AGEING ©LW

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HAIR & BEAUTY

Pow! De-ageing for the impatient. Recapture younger-looking skin with the full de-ageing power of fresh, potent Vitamin C. We love Clinique’s Fresh Pressed Renewing Powder Cleanser with Pure Vitamin C and Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%, a simple way to reinvigorate your de-ageing skin care routine. Boots and Debenhams, Swansea

laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

Hydra-Essentiel

PART ONE

Dull, dehydrated skin? Quench from within

TIME FOR A REFRESH Aveda’s The Art and Science of Pure Flower and Plant Essences’ beloved Blue Oil has just got a makeover. The cult-favourite cooling oil helps tame tension all over the body with a blend of certified organic peppermint and blue Chamomile and helps refresh and revive senses. From this month and in time for spring it will be called Cooling Balancing Oil Concentrate which is 100 per cent naturally derived and truly multi purposeful. Priced: £24 for 50ml or a rollerball 7ml, £17, from Aveda.com

We love Clarins new skin care range which not only smells great but deeply hydrates and moisturises. Its green fruit fragrance combines notes of jasmine and rose with nuances of wood, vanilla and musk and comes in four different textures to as well as a serum to offer tailor made fragrance and freshness. Pictured: Bi-phase serum, £44 and Silky Cream SPF 15, £36, Boots, Swansea

BRONZE AND GLOW BareMinerals launches its Invisible Bronze Powder Bronzer and Invisible Glow Powder Highlighter, the perfect combination to create a natural and sunkissed look. The silky, ultra-fine baked bronzer is formulated with specialised pearls that catches the light without creating an orange or muddy tone. For the ideal sun-kissed look, pair with the Invisible Glow after bronzing, which is developed to mimic sunlight reflecting on the skin and illuminates your skin tone for a lit-from-within-glow. This sheer, velvet, and creamy formula offers a naturally luminous finish and comes in different shades to suit all skin types. £25 each, Debenhams, Swansea

GALIFOIRNIA GIRL

Benefit launches its latest blush powder which is inspired by 1970s California surfer girls. GALifornia is a sunny golden-pink blush and gives cheeks a splash of California colour with a scent of sunny pink grapefruit and vanilla. Shimmery gold mingles with warm pink creating a look that’s part sun...pure fun! £24.50, Debenhams, Swansea

Fresh Pressed Renewing Powder Cleanser with Pure Vitamin C, 28 x 0.5g, £24 Activate this ultra-fine single-use packet powder with water for an exhilarating cleansing experience. Its non-drying, non-stripping formula is gentle enough for use each morning and jump-starts skin’s natural cellular renewal process and preps skin for treatment with the Booster. NEW Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%, 4 x 10ml, £58

SHAKE IT UP TO KEEP IT FRESH!

GET YOUR VITAMIN C

W I T H L AU R A DAV I E S

Ready to shake up your lash-look? Rimmel introduces new Volume Shake Mascara, the freshest mascara on the block that won’t dry out or cause clumps. Shake it up to keep it fresh from start to finish. Rock ultra-smooth, clump-free volume from first to last use. Available in black, £8.99, Superdrug, Swansea

Bobbi Brown’s iconic Art Sticks just got better. Introducing her art supplyinspired, modern take on liquid lipstick: Art Stick Liquid Lip. Creamy and superpigmented with a semi-matte finish, this squeezable colour stick offers a bold, full coverage look with a luxurious, ultra-lightweight feel. The moisturising formula conditions lips for comfortable, long-lasting wear and blends effortlessly onto lips for even application. Art Stick Liquid Lip is the perfect product when you’re on the run—just squeeze, swipe and go. Available in 16 nude, bright and bold shades. £21.50, Debenhams, Swansea

MEET YOUR NEW SQUEEZE

BEAUT Y NEWS

Refresh and renew your skin by pressing the button to release the pure Vitamin C. Shake to mix with the de-ageing soothing emulsion, and it’s ready to deliver its rejuvenating power. Like a daily supplement, simply mix two drops with your favourite Clinique moisturiser to instantly brighten skin’s look, and in just seven days see remarkably even-toned, retextured skin.

IN BLOOM Britney Spears introduces her newest limited edition fragrance fantasy Britney Spears IN BLOOM. Both luminous and uplifting, the floral fragrance begins with a burst of luscious Berries and juicy Mandarin, mixed with the charm of Cherry Blossom. Available in a 30ml, 50ml and 100ml, from £21.50 -£35, Superdrug, Swansea

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Healthy skin isn’t a luxury... it’s a necessity Do you have dry/damaged skin? ﬁne lines? Unwanted blackheads and spots? Hydra facial is the BRAND NEW latest generation of skin resurfacing technology and here at the Sun Lounge Beauty Centre, an now introduce a new device that will can combine six treatments in one: Cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration and antioxidant protection.

★ IMMEDIATE RESULTS ★ ★ EFFORTLESS AND PAINLESS ★ Call now for more information on our open weekend “It's very rare that you see a great result after just one treatment, but the difference after a HydraFacial is incredible" Karren Brady

ONLY SALON IN SWANSEA TO OFFER HYDRAFACIAL

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ll in to Please ca r a full fo n our Salo st. price li

www.swanseasunlounge.co.uk facebook.com/MorristonSunLounge 52 Woodﬁeld Street, Morriston, Swansea SA6 8BW

23/02/2017 19:47:24

HAIR & BEAUTY

FLOWER FUSION

BEAUT Y NEWS W I T H L AU R A DAV I E S laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

PART TWO

Inspired by the naturally radiant beauty of florals, Origins has created Flower Fusion Hydrating Sheet Masks to provide an instant boost of rose-like radiance and dewy moisture.

TAN IT!

Fed up of looking pale and pasty? Us too.! Now fashion retailer New Look has solved the answers to your prayers by launching a new Tanning collection. The range include four types of tanning products which include, Tan Remover and Exfoliator, Developing Bronzing Mousse, Gradual Tanning Lotion and Instant Bronzing Gel. All are available in store or online and priced between £6.99 and £8.99, New Look, Swansea

The single-use sheets are formulated with pure flower extracts and natural essential oils for added complexion protection and moisture and they are 100 per cent recycled and eco-friendly. They are available in six fragrances, including jasmine, lavender, rose and raspberry. Origins Flower Fusion™ Hydrating Sheet Mask, £5, www.origins.co.uk

EVERY DAY GENTLE

THE BLOOMSBURY SCENT

Inspired by the free spirit of The Bloomsbury Set, a collection of scents capturing the intoxicating essence of an unconventional life. The lily pond at dawn, bold blue hyacinths, blossoming fruit trees, absinthe afternoons and golden linseed on paint-stained hands. Warming whisky and sweet pipe tobacco. The secrets of waxed floors burnished by footsteps in the night. The five fragrances have a natural evolution and tell a story from morning to night at the Charleston house in the English Countryside. The scents are wonderfully combined and work surprisingly well together. Who would think of mixing Tobacco and Mandarin and Leather and Artemisia? Each 30ml Cologne is £45, Jo Malone, Cardiff

Women who have fine hair, an oily scalp or are fitness fanatics and wash their hair every day, will be familiar with their locks feeling dry and prone tobreakage with faster colour fade. Charles Worthington has therefore launched a range to solve these woes: new Everyday Gentle. It offers a mild cleansing solution specifically for daily washing and includes the world’s first Micellar Shampoo to hit the shelves alongside a Weightless Conditioner and Protective Detangling Mist. The shampoo and conditioner, which are paraben free, contain an uplifting fragrance of sweet fig and juicy mandarin, wrapped in soft woody and musky notes. £5.99 each, Boots, Swansea

PORTOFINO ADDITION TOUCHED BY A ROSE We love Lancome’s newest fragrance collection, La Nuit Trésor a fruity, musky Floriental scent created by the same designers as the original Trésor Eau de Parfum. Housed in a sensual, rose-inspired bottle, the perfume is available in 30ml, 50ml, 75ml 100ml, as well as a shower gel and body lotion 200ml. Prices from £35 to £89, available from March 29, at Debenhams, Swansea

We are absolutely loving the new addition to the Tom Ford Neroli Portofino Collection. This month sees the launch of the Neroli Portofino All Over Body Sprays - a refreshing and invigorating mist to be used all over the body. Lightly scented, the sprays, which come in three scents, add new dimension to experiencing the notes of the eau de parfum counterparts. Available in fragrance favourites Costa Azzurra, Fleur De Portofino and Mandarino Di Amalfi, £44 (150ml) , John Lewis, Cardiff

BROWMOBILE HITS THE ROAD Benefit is heading out on a road trip on March 1, bringing its eyebrow expertise to the remotest parts of the UK. The 4X4 BrowMobile (in signature pink, naturally) will be on the move for three months, transporting experts ready to wax, map, tint, shape and style, wherever they end up - and that could be your place. For a chance to win a stop-off, go to Facebook.com/ BenefitCosmeticsUK to explain where you are and why you deserve a visit.

MAKE ME BEAUTIFUL

For eye colour in one palette, why not try Next’s Make Me Beautiful Eye palette, £10. It is the perfect combination of pearlescent and matte shades that deliver high-impact colour to create your own individual look. Next, Morfa Retail Park

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23/02/2017 14:13

GET IN TOUCH WITH YOUR SENSITIVE SIDE

HAIR & BEAUTY

Finding suitable products can be tricky if you’ve got easily-irritated skin but it is possible, once you know the ‘rules’. LAURA DAVIES reveals the experts’ advice on the gentle giants of skincare laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

Are rashes, itchiness, blotchiness or stinging all too common whenever you try out a new skincare product, or do they flare up with environmental changes or stress? Then it probably won’t come as news to hear your skin is classed as ‘sensitive’, and as such,

@LawsDx

it requires extra TLC.So what causes these irksome flare-ups? “There are three potential initiators. Allergens that may stimulate an immune response, chemicals that stimulate a nerve response, and emotional and physical stress that can also induce a nerve response.

Darphin Azahar Cleansing Micellar Water, £25, www.darphin.co.uk

KIND CLEANSERS

Whatever the product, there is, unfortunately, a whole laundry list of potentially harmful ingredients it’s best to steer clear of. As a general rule for sensitive skin, avoid sodium lauryl/ laureth sulphate, soap, AHAs/BHAs, salicylic acid, high fragrance, colourants and alcohol. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is commonly used in skincare, particularly in cleansing products, due to its lathering effect. Avoid harsh chemicals such as SLS, as they strip the skin of its goodness. Alcohol strips the skin of its natural oils and leads to a loss of water in the skin’s upper layer. Use water-based products instead. For reactive skin, try a three-in-one product, such as Darphin Azahar Micellar Water, as this reduces the [number of] products/ingredients being introduced to skin, and there’s no need for water, which can also lead to skin sensitivity Harley Medical Group DermaQuest Essential Daily Cleanser, £29, Harleymedical.co.uk Pure Cleansing Milk, £2.50, Waitrose, Cowbridge

MILD MOISTURISERS

The final step in your skincare routine should be tailored to your particularly sensitivity. If it’s an allergic/reactive skin concern, always opt for products that are light in texture and readily absorbed, and avoid moisturisers which contain fragrance and colour. If the sensitivity is more associated with high colour/ flushing, choose a product which contains a green hue to counteract redness, such as Darphin Intral Redness Relief Recovery Cream. If the skin is more prone to irritation/ dryness, go for a richer texture to protect skin from environmental aggressors. Darphin Intral Redness Relief Recovery Cream, £45, John Lewis, Cardiff Avene Rich Skin Recovery Cream, currently reduced to £12.37 from £16.50, Boots, Swansea

That means you need to choose the products you use carefully, in order to avoid irritating ingredients and soothe stressed-out skin. What’s interesting is that besides common allergens like artificial fragrance, anyone can become sensitized to anything at any time

Beauty Kitchen Miracle Mother Nature Facial Konjac Sponge, £6.99, Holland & Barrett, Swansea

EXFOLIATORS

Excessive exfoliation is a common sensitizer. Some ingredients can be very active, such as AHAs, which are very stimulating and sometimes too aggressive for sensitive skin. Switch from a physical scrub - one that contains ingredients like grains and salts that help manually scrub or scratch the skin to dislodge dead skin cells - to a ‘chemical’ scrub, if your skin is acting up after using a physical scrub. Dermalogica Daily Superfoliant, £55, www.dermalogica.co.uk

Dermalogica UltraCalming Serum Concentrate, £53.15, John Lewis, Cardiff

SOOTHING SERUMS

Applied after cleansing and before moisturising, a serum can help to calm inflammation and counteract redness. Dermalogica has developed a proprietary blend of botanical extracts coined UltraCalming Complex, which contains key actives that target the symptoms of immunogenic and neurogenic inflammation, to help reduce and prevent future sensitivity, redness and irritation. Always make sure to test new products before applying to your skin. Place a small test patch on your skin at least 48 hours before using to check for any redness, irritation or inflammation. Avene Hydrance Optimale Hydrating Serum, £12.75, Escentual.com

52 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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23/02/2017 14:16

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HAIR & BEAUTY LOOSE POWDER AS A DRY SHAMPOO If you’re running low on dry shampoo, use translucent powder instead. A light dusting of loose powder on your roots will soak up the grease in your hair.

S T C U D O R E P S Y O T P R U BEA TH A PU WI

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DEODORANT TO PREVENT BLISTERS

PRIMER AS A MAKEUP REMOVER

DEODORANT TO REMOVE NAIL POLISH

PETROLEUM JELLY TO SET PERFUME

Before you head on a night out with your brand new heels on, simply apply some deodorant to the backs and sides of your feet. This will stop blisters and will leave your feet thanking you the next day.

Running low on nail polish remover? Then use your spray deodorant instead. Spray either directly onto the nail, or onto a cotton ball and wipe away the varnish from your nail.

BLUSH AS NAIL VARNISH

Don’t worry about sneezing and messing up your mascara, simply rectify it with your face primer. Dot some onto a cotton bud to clear away any mistake without smudging.

To get a flattering nail varnish that suits any skin tone, simply scrape a bit of your blush onto a clean surface and then mix with a clear nail polish. Shimmery blushes are also great to use, as they will add a bit of sparkle to your nails.

Placing a small dab of petroleum jelly onto the areas you spray perfume will make it last longer. The ointment is air and watertight so will seal in fragrance better than when you apply to dry skin.

SHAMPOO AS A MAKEUP BRUSH CLEANER

Don’t purchase expensive makeup brush cleaner to wash your brushes in, simply use regular shampoo instead. Wash your makeup brushes weekly in a bowl of warm water and shampoo, rinse and leave to dry for sparkling brushes that look like new.

ARGAN OIL FOR NAILS

Argan oil is a miracle to use on hair, and it can also be used on your nails to keep them healthy. Simply apply to dry cuticles to give them some tender loving care.

54 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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23/02/2017 14:18

RED LIPSTICK AS A TATTOO COVER UP

Have a tattoo you want to temporarily cover up? Trace it with a red lippy as this acts as a neutraliser to the ink, which will cover the tattoo up. After this, fill it in with concealer and powder.

CORAL LIPSTICK AS CONCEALER

CONDITIONER FOR SHAVING CREAM

Conditioner isn’t just good for your hair, it can also be used as a shaving cream for your legs. Simply coat a small drop onto your leg, and shave to get accurate and smooth results.

HIGHLIGHTER AS A LIP PLUMPER

Lip plumping products can be expensive, so instead, why not create the illusion with a highlighter? After putting on your lipstick, apply a small amount onto your cupid’s bow and across the middle part of your LIP BALM TO SET lips. Blend and blot YOUR BROWS to make your lips To set your brows you can use appear lusciously clear lip balm or coconut fuller with no oil if you’ve ran out of brow cost involved. gel. Simply comb through your brows with a clean (mascara free) wand for perfectly arched and groomed brows.

Did you know that orange cancels blue? You can use coral lipstick as a colour corrector to minimise dark under eye circles. Simply dab into the under eye area and blend with some foundation or regular concealer to balance out your bags perfectly.

LOOSE POWDER AS AN EYELASH PRIMER

Add a small touch of loose powder to your eyelashes before applying mascara. This will soak up any natural oils and will also beef up the diameter of your lashes. This allows mascara to look fuller and last longer.

EYE SHADOW AS A HIGHLIGHTER Want an ultra-blinding highlighter? Simply apply a super shimmering eye shadow to your cheekbones, Cupid’s bow and nose tip.

www.swansealife.co.uk | 55

DPS Beauty with purpose _SLMAR17.indd 2

23/02/2017 14:19

HAIR & BEAUTY

DOUBLE UP When it comes to beauty, sometimes it pays to double up. From two-step cleansing to multi-masking, LAURA DAVIES reveals your perfect preening pairs

CLEANSING COUPLETS

If you often end up with traces of foundation on the towel after washing your face, clearly you need to bolster your nightly cleansing technique. Like an electric toothbrush, a vibrating facial brush combined with a foaming wash will make light work of stubborn make-up, and exfoliate at the same time. Rinse your face then follow with a cleansing pad to sweep up any hard-toreach areas around your nose and hairline and take care of eye make-up. Foreo Luna for Sensitive/Normal Skin, £129, LookFantastic.com

Elemis Gentle Foaming Facial Wash, £28, Monks Spa at Machynys, Llanelli

This Works In Transit No Traces 60 Pads, £17, Boots, Swansea To melt away make-up, try a cleansing balm. Solid at room temperature, the balm softens on contact with the skin, then emulsifies when water is added, taking with it make-up and oil. Balms can be tricky to rinse off completely, however, so follow with a micellarcontaining product, which acts like a magnet for dirt and ensures a squeakyclean complexion. ARK Pro Remove Pre Cleanse, £30, www.arkskincare.com Nivea Micellar Wipes, £3.25, Sainsbury’s, Swansea In response to the ‘double duty’ trend, cult brand Pixi has paired up with highly respected blogger Caroline Hirons on a terrific twosome that combines a solid cleansing oil and a cream in one handy pot.

@LawsDx

Beauty Kitchen Seahorse Plankton High Definition Facial Oil, £19.99, Holland and Barrett, Swansea

HYDRATE IN TWO HALVES We’re often advised to change our moisturiser when it gets particularly frosty (or hot, for that matter), but adding an extra layer before your day or night cream can provide all the nourishment your complexion needs. Just a few drops of oil, warmed in your palms then massaged into skin, will make all the difference in winter, but make sure you let it absorb thoroughly before finishing with your usual moisturiser.

Clarins Hydra-Essential Silky Cream, £36, Boots, Swansea In Korea, 10-step skincare routines are the norm - a commitment most of us would be loathe to make. One tip we’d do well to borrow, though, is the use of an ‘essence lotion’. It may look like a toner, but this potent liquid gently soothes, smoothes and boosts hydration, before your moisturiser locks it in. Origins Original Skin Essence Lotion, £22, John Lewis, Cardiff No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Night Cream, £24.95, Boots, Swansea and Morfa Retail Park

MAKE YOUR OWN MASK

A weekly face mask is a must, whatever your skin type, but ‘multi-masking’ is particularly effective if you have combination skin. Apply an exfoliating, oil-absorbing treatment across the T-zone and a moisturising mask on the rest of your face, then sit back and let them work their magic. Elemis Exotic Cream Moisturising Mask, £34, Monks Spa at Marchynys, Llanelli GlamGlow Supermud Clearing Treatment, £39, M&S, Swansea If your skin tends to be on the dry side, a two-phase approach is your best bet. Start with a gently exfoliating mask to sweep away any flakiness, then use a sheet mask to deliver a hefty dose of moisture. The end result? Rejuvenated, plump-looking skin. Dermalogica Gentle Cream Exfoliant, £39.20, www.dermalogica.co.uk

Starskin Red Carpet Ready Hydrating Bio Cellulose Second Skin Face Mask, £8.50, House of Fraser, Cardiff

laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

Pixi + Caroline Hirons Double Cleanse, £24, M&S, Swansea 56 | www.swansealife.co.uk

x 1 Beauty Doubles _SLMAR17.indd 1

23/02/2017 14:21

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BLANK 5-pageJames.indd 49

1/21/2017 9:35:38 PM

Going To Great Lengths ...Rhydian Maher

hydian Maher Salon is a boutique salon in the Swansea City Centre offering bespoke hair design using an extensive range of luxury brands including Shu Uemura, Kerastase, KeraStraight, Great Lengths, GHD and more. The busy team are all about creating hair that’s current and emerging, but combining these looks with the use of classic beautiful techniques and the best product care to maintain optimum hair condition for a flawless colour and look. Hair extensions are a popular service amongst clients in the salon and is a trend that keeps growing. Marc Roach is a salon style director who has worked alongside Rhydian for over ten years, he also has the sole role of being the salons hair extension specialist. Here are a few looks Marc has created on a salon client with Great lengths extensions to show

2017MarAdsPlan.indd 58

how versatile they are to handle and how natural they look when they are applied and most importantly cut well. Before applying Great Lengths on Erin, her hair was already relatively long but lacking in volume. In this case they were used to add thickness to the hair for that voluminous look whilst only adding 3 inches in length. One of the great advantages our clients love from Great Lengths is the longer lasting curl it holds after styling. It is also so important that extensions are cut well to look completely natural particularly when styled straight. Look one is simple, sleek and straight. It is so important that extensions are cut well for this simple day to day look. We see it time and time again, Curls can hide a multitude of sins but realistically everyday women aren’t factoring in a big bouncy blow dry first thing in the mornings with all the other chores life throws at us. We can not emphasise enough how important it is to get the cut right for this to achieve the perfect balance and flow. In Erin’s Second look Marc had created a polished loose wave with a Max GHD Styler. On look three Marc used the small GHD Curve tong for this and shook the hair with his hands to break the look up for a soft bouncy unorganised curl. Great Lengths was established over 25 years ago and Guarantees Premium Quality 100% Human Hair. The finished product is of the highest quality and comes in a vast selection of glossy tones and lengths, and suitable for all hair types. Using the finest quality hair Great Lengths guarantee the source, origin, quality and ethicality of all hair used in the process. Their commitment to ethical practice sees the proceeds from the purchase of the Indian Temple hair go directly back into the local communities from where it originates, aiding the development of temples, medical services, schools and many other charitable concerns.

24/02/2017 17:02:09

Frequently asked answered by Marc.

questions,

Do I have to get a full head of hair extensions?

The hair is also lifted in a special way without the use of bleaches to maintain optimum condition.

No, the beauty of Great Lengths is that you can apply as few extensions as you need to achieve your desired look. Women with long hair often have finer sides lacking in density and length, a popular service we provide is to just target the side areas to balance with the back of the head.

Will Great Lengths give my limp hair life? For those of us who are unfortunate to have limp hair that always seems to drop the curls youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve spent what seems like hours to create, adding Great Lengths is a fantastic way of blending in a different hair texture. This will help support and maintain a styled curl in your hair for much longer without dropping. How much will my Great Lengths cost? There is no quick answer for this as all our Great Length Extensions are bespoke to each of our clients so prices will vary for each client depending on the quantity of bonds required, colour choices and the time required for application. A salon consultation is the best way to determine an accurate price. Are extensions difficult to look after? Not at all, you would handle Great Lengths just as you would your own. Great lengths are 100% human hair and each hair has been placed the correct way with the cuticle flowing the right way as though it was growing from you head. This minimises tangles.

2017MarAdsPlan.indd 59

Are Great Lengths suitable for everyone? This is a frequently asked question which indicates to me there are a lot of women out there who are interested but almost fearful of asking. Providing the hair is in healthy condition and is 5cm in length to allow proper attachment they can be used on different lengths and shapes of hair cuts from long to bob to short.

30 Castle Street Swansea, United Kingdom @RhydianMaherHairSalon Call 01792 470274

24/02/2017 17:02:25

HAIR & BEAUTY

Neutrals are nice, but the season’s happiest beauty look is all about the brights. From ravishing red (and, no, not just lippie) to ultra-violet, LAURA DAVIES looks at how to work the rainbow trend in the real world... laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

Illamasqua Powder Eye Shadow in Apex, £16.50, John Lewis, Cardiff

RED-Y FOR ANYTHING

Described as ‘explosions of colour,’ at the AF Vandevorst show, powder pigment was dropped at random with a pipette over eyelids. To soften this daring look, take a shimmery, dark red eyeshadow (or blush, which you’ve probably already got at home) and use your finger to tap it onto to the outer eye corner, then blend out with a blusher brush for diffused, subtle colour which is particularly flattering on hazel and green eyes.

Lady Danger Lipstick, £15.50, MAC, Debenhams, Swansea

Lottie London Blush Crush in Harry, £4.95, Superdrug, Swansea

HELLO, YELLOW!

Backstage at I’m Isola Marras in Milan, MAC’s Michelle Magnani blended yellow and orange cream colours to create a custom ochre shade, that was painted over the eyelids and waterline then gently smudged out. Magnani added a swipe of hot pink under the eye, but this look is more wearable if you stick with just yellow on the eyes and finish with a sheer magenta wash over the lips.

MAC Chromagraphic Pencil in Genuine Orange, £14, MAC, Debenhams, Swansea MAC Chromaline in Primary Yellow, £16, MAC, Debenhams, Swansea

BOLT FROM THE BLUE

Attention, scarlet lip devotees: try switching out your blue-toned red for a zingy orange every once in a while, and discover the joy of a fruity pout, a la the Proenza Schouler catwalk. If you’re fair-skinned, a shiny peach or coral shade works best, while matte tangerine and red-orange really pop against olive and darker skin tones.

Inspired by the Roaring Twenties, models’ eyes were ringed with masses of pretty powder blue at Thom Browne. If you’re blessed with huge, doll-like eyes, this look will totally work on you - if not, a finer line of shadow in a shade that contrasts your eye colour is more flattering. Complete the look with a dash of baby pink blusher and a pale lip. Thom Browne backstage image courtesy of MAC Cosmetics

NARS Audacious Lipstick in Geraldine, £25, House of Fraser, Cardiff

3ina The Eyeshadow 126, £6.95, www.3ina.com

ORANGE APPEAL

GIVE IT THE GREEN LIGHT

The ‘urban warriors’ on the Emilio Pucci SS17 catwalk were daubed with a wide slick of emerald paint in the eye crease, creating a fierce flash of colour. Tone down this gutsy look by drawing a floating green pencil line in the crease and blending it Sixties-style, or use a metallic green liquid liner to trace a sharp cat-eye flick. Urban Decay Razor Sharp Water-Resistant Longwear Liquid Eyeliner in Kush, £17, Debenhams, Swansea

INDIGO FOR IT

At Vivienne Westwood, nails were painted a stormy navy, the perfect shade if you want to go dark in the mani department without going full-on goth. Give your talons the indigo treatment with Essie’s inky Bobbing for Baubles. Essie Bobbing for Baubles Nail Polish, £7.95, Boots, Swansea

Illamasqua Antimatter Lipstick in BTCH, £20, John Lewis, Cardiff

VIVID VIOLET

‘Violet lipstick?!’ You might exclaim, but just a cursory glance at the #purplelips hashtag on Instagram proves a purple pout really is the way forward. On the Ohne Titel catwalk, the girls were given a moody purple hue, which looks gothically gorgeous against a porcelain complexion, but if you’ve a darker skin tone, a brilliant violet, whether matte or moist, will really zing. Ohne Titel backstage image courtesy of MAC Cosmetics Nizz Purple Haze Lipstick, £16, www.nizzcosmetics.co.uk

60 | www.swansealife.co.uk

x1 Rainbow Brights _SLMAR17.indd 1

23/02/2017 14:22

Discover the Beauty Within... Aesthetics

Beauty / Spa

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23/02/2017 19:48:05

HAIR & BEAUTY

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HAIR & BEAUTY Nars Soft Matte Concealer, £23, John Lewis, Cardiff

CHOOSE YOUR TEXTURE

From matte to moisturised, there’s no single rule when it comes to skin this season, but a subtle shine is the finish most make-up artists opted for - not harsh blasts of highlighter, however. It’s about enhancing your natural complexion forgo foundation in favour of a few dabs of concealer for the most authentic take on the trend.

Tresemme Botanique Nourish & Replenish Hydrating Mist, £6.10, Asda, Gorseinon and Llansamlet

MAKE WAVES

Gentle waves were the order of the day at a multitude of shows, with hair stylist Antonio Corral Calero going so far as to call the Temperley look ‘dishevelled’. This isn’t the kind of hair that happens by accident, however: it’ll take a frizz-fighting blow-dry creme and barrel tongs to create just the right level of dishevelment. Moroccanoil Blow Dry Concentrate, £16.85, LookFantastic.com

CITY SLICKERS

Elsewhere, hair was swept tightly back, sometimes with a hefty dose of product (Markus Lupfer’s ‘romantic rebels’), sometimes tied or braided at the back (Carolina Herrera’s ‘bow’ illusion was particularly pretty). Echoing the Eighties, these slick styles deliver heaps of attitude and put the spotlight on the make-up too.

MAC Strobe Cream in Silverlite, £25, Debenhams, Swansea

GET THE LIVED IN LOOK SPRING BEAUTY TRENDS

Once again, the catwalks delivered a bevy of hair and make-up inspiration for SS17. LAURA DAVIES looks ahead to the beauty trends you’ll be dying to try this spring laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

“Make-up that has been somewhere and done something... Lived!” is how Alex Box described the look at the Veronique Leroy show at Paris Fashion Week last September, and that’s an apt description for the prevailing attitude when it comes to SS17 beauty. Smudgy black eyeliner was ubiquitous, skin was glowing - almost raw - and even where colour was prominent, there was a real freedom to it. Hair had an equally unhurried feel, but make no mistake - it takes some doing to look this undone. Here’s how to tap into spring’s carefree mood...

Cream Crush Lasting Colour Eyeshadow in Pearly Electric Blue, currently reduced to £4.80 from £6.90, Kiko, Cardiff

HEAVY HUES

Bright cream eyeshadows made a splash on many a catwalk, from Emilio Pucci’s purple and green painterly daubs, to Haider Ackermann’s acid yellow eyeliner and Victoria Beckham’s azure blue lids.

THE CLEAR WINNER

In keeping with the season’s pared-back approach, nude nails were championed widely, but not just pale shades. Clear, high-shine polish over perfectly preened nails is the defining look of the season - you’d better get a mani booked (and fast).

Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat, £9.99, Superdrug, Swansea

CLOUD COVER

The other approach to bold colour harked back to the Seventies and Eighties, as powder shadows were buffed beautifully to create clouds of diffused colour, like the ‘lurex lavender’ shine Terry Barber mixed at Marques’Almeida, and the lipstick red repurposed on lids at Kenzo.

3ina The Pencil Eye Shadow in 111 Black, £6.95, www.3ina.com

MAC Casual Colour in High Jinks, £19.50, Debenhams, Swansea

WEAR IT WELL

“Late night or early morning?” was the question Tom Pecheux posed at Rag & Bone, where black kohl liner was smudged beneath the eyes and lips were faintly painted. Pecheux’s point is that the make-up doesn’t look freshly applied, it appears worn-in, a feeling echoed at countless other shows, from New York to Milan.

www.swansealife.co.uk | 63

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23/02/2017 14:26

HAIR & BEAUTY

CHILL & UNWIND AT

LAURA DAVIES heads to the Vale Resort & Spa Hotel and Spa to try out their luxury Champagne and Truffle Facial Treatment laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

THE VALE

50 | www.swansealife.co.uk

DPS Vale review _SLMAR17.indd 1

23/02/2017 15:24

hampagne and Truffles anyone? Yes please! Pure indulgence in one sentence, luxury at its best. Add in the word facial and I am there! Can it get any better? One answer. Yes.

I am at the Vale Hotel in the Vale of Glamorgan, a few miles away from Cardiff and literally five minutes off the M4. I am sampling its luxury spa facility that boast 19 treatment rooms and three chill out zones, each one having their own bespoke design to help you find your idea of perfect tranquillity. It is quite simply relaxation at its best! There is also a pool with steam room and sauna facilities as well as a fitness area. But on this occasion I decide to give the whole energetic thing a miss! On arrival at the spa, I am given my robe and slippers and head towards the “float” zone where I lay on one of the comforting water beds and let my mind unwind while gazing dreamily at the water features in front of me. The area is so calming I actually nod off and before I know it, it is time for my treatment. I head to the snug and pour myself a lemon water while I wait for my therapist to collect me. I start talking to another woman and before we know it we are exchanging the treatments we are having. As nice as her one sounded, I couldn’t help thinking that my treatment sounded far more luxurious. After all it is dubbed the crème de la crème of facials. My therapist, Katie, arrives to take me to my room of calm. I am experiencing the Temple Spa Champagne and Truffle Facial Treatment. And for nearly an hour and a half I will be in her safe, healing hands. The treatment starts with a hot stone back and shoulder massage. As I hadn’t read what the treatment involved prior to my arrival, I was pleasantly surprised by this extra bonus. And it had to be the best hot stone treatment I had ever received. I could feel all the tension and stress instantly ooze out of my body as Katie moved her healing hands around my shoulders. After my back had been given a good going over, my facial begun. A quenching mask was followed by a layer of warm soya wax which is meant to penetrate the skin more effectively with heat. It was bliss! By the time I had my facial massage, where uplifting techniques were applied, I was completely in a trance-like state. Despite fighting hard to stay awake, I soon started to doze off as Katie continued working her magic. The treatment finished with an application of Temple Spa Skin Truffle. This cult-favourite is the moisturiser that sparked a near riot in Harrods when it was initially launched. It works by mimicking the endorphin effect on the complexion, giving the skin a happy glow. And I was definitely

LAURA EXPERIENCED TEMPLE SPA CHAMPAGNE & TRUFFLES DELUXE TREATMENT (85 mins) £75 The crème de la crème of facials The treatment begins with a gentle hot stone back massage followed by a warm melting mask to help iron out wrinkles and a luxurious lifting massage to strengthen, tone and reduce puffiness. Finally, an application of Temple Spa award winning cult product Skin Truffle and the results will leave you looking radiant, more youthful and instantly wonderful.

a happy customer when I came out with fresh and glowing skin to match my smiling face. I make my way to the Indian-inspired ‘slumber’ zone where shimmering lanterns and sumptuous quilts are the ideal environment to carry on my doze. After a quick nap, (yes another one!) I head to the chill zone and cosy up on a leather sofa and flick through some magazines before bringing myself to go out in the cold and drive home. The Vale Spa is definitely recommended and is the perfect retreat to go with friends, colleagues, a partner or on your own. And with Mothering Sunday coming up at the end of the month, why not spoil mum to a treatment or spa day to relax and unwind. The Vale Resort, Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JYT Tel: 01443 667800 www.vale-hotel.com/Spa

www.swansealife.co.uk | 65

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23/02/2017 15:23

HAIR & BEAUTY There’s been a flood of matte liquid lip launches this season, but which is best? We put three new shades to the test...

TRIED & TESTED

BareMinerals Gen Nude Matte Liquid Lipcolour in Friendship, £17, Debenhams, Swansea “Smooth to apply - not sticky at all - this shade is opaque and slightly darker, but than the frosted packaging suggests, but it’s still very wearable, for both day and night, and makes for a nice change from my usual bright reds and pinks.” 4/5

LAURA DAVIES puts a range of beauty products to the test... laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

Ciate Liquid Velvet Matte Liquid Lipstick in Bitter Sweet, £17, Asos.com

“The two months I took Beauty Beneath - a supplement containing ‘an expert blend of phyto-nutrients’ including Lycopene, vitamins C and E, plus Biotin, Marine Collagen and Omegas 3 and 6, which promises to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles - were the perfect testing conditions: First there was the gloomy weather, and I was going through a few stressful life changes. Usually, these things would really ‘show’ on my face, yet this time, they didn’t seem to affect my skin. I took the two capsules a day, as instructed, and even after several sleepless nights, there were no new wrinkles around my eyes, and the ones I did have seemed to reduce in appearance. There was also a marked improvement in the fine lines around my face overall. My skin felt super-smooth and soft too, and apart from a few spots around my chin, my complexion was very clear. Compared to the results I’ve had with expensive face creams and serums, these pills are worth every penny.”

Beauty Beneath, £39.99 for 60 capsules, Boots, Swansea

This beauty-boosting supplement’s been getting rave reviews. We put it to the test, to see if it lives up to the hype...

Is epilation too harsh for sensitive skin? We try out Braun’s new multi-purpose device... The Braun Silk-Epil 9 can be used wet or dry, so I first tried it out while having a soak in the tub. I have quite sensitive skin, and while I did wince as the first few leg hairs were tweezed out at the root by the revolving head, overall, it wasn’t too painful, and as I got the hang of it, I got a lot faster. My follicles were a little red after but they soon calmed down, and I was impressed with the long-lasting effects compared to shaving. The device also comes with a range of interchangeable attachments - I used the sensitive exfoliation brush on my legs, which helps prevent ingrown hairs (I haven’t seen any yet), and the deep exfoliation brush is great for a weekly thorough face cleanse.” Braun Silk-Epil 9 SkinSpa 4 in 1 Wet and Dry Epilator, £179.99, Argos, Swansea and parc Pemberton, Llanelli

3/5

Cr eam of the crop?

Which is best when it comes to mascara: wand, comb, or both? We put three mascaras to the test... Ciate London Wonderwand Mascara, £19.50, M&S, Swansea

4/5

”I love this rich, creamy mascara, which volumises lashes without clumping and is easily applied with the hourglass-shaped wand. It lasts for ages, doesn’t smudge, and lengthens lashes with just one swipe.”

Max Factor False Lash Epic Mascara Black, £11.99, Boots, Swansea and Morfa Retail Park

“While I’d recommend this mascara for its intense colour and lasting wear, its unique wand - complete with four combs and a ‘Zoom-Action Tip’ - is tricky to use and left me with some clumps, although I did improve with a bit of practice.”

5/5

“I’ve totally fallen in love with this matte finish lipstick! My lips are usually dry, but this liquid velvet lipstick left them feeling moisturised. It’s highly pigmented, so I didn’t have to apply a tonne of product, and the long-lasting weightless formula is a real winner.”

Burberry Liquid Lip Velvet in Dark Rosewood, £26, www.burberry.com “Sliding on like a gloss, this liquid lippie dries to a deep tawny-pink that manages to make my lips look plumper even though there’s no shine. It’s got fantastic staying power, but I found I needed a lip liner to create a really defined edge.”

4/5

Can you halve a double chin without dieting or hitting the gym? We get to grips with a face mask that claims you can... “I have a round face shape which looks puffy and saggy after even the slightest indulgence, so after a fun-filled couple of winter months, I was seriously in need of some help in the chin department... The ChinUp trial pack comes with two face masks, a face band and tape measure. I started by measuring my vital face stats, as instructed, then fitted the moist sheet mask around my jawline, followed by the band on top. It was a bit fiddly at first, because the band has to be secured around the back of the head so kept getting caught in my hair, but once it was in place, it felt fine and I could relax for the prescribed 40 minutes. Looking in the mirror after the big reveal, I can honestly say my double chin had practically gone! My jawline looked contoured, and the tape measure proved I’d lost over 2cm of sag and puff. The results lasted for a few days, so I’ll definitely be using the ChinUp again when I know I’m going to end up in lots of photos on social media. When it comes to beauty treatments, it’s a firm favourite.” ChinUp Mask Trial Pack, £29.95, chinupmask.com

Studio 10 Mascara 6-in-1 Perfect Lash Mascara, £24, M&S, Swansea “As well as a regular wand, this mascara comes with a comb-like applicator for lower lashes. It creates the perfect amount of coverage (not too spidery), and separated my lashes out for that Sixties-Twiggy look. It lasts all day long too, and comes off at night with ease. I’m very impressed.”

5/5

66 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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23/02/2017 15:07

SPEEDY BLOW DRY

Need the answer to perfect looking hair in a hurry? Look no further, as KMS California’s HAIRPLAY Quick Blow Dry works by speeding up your drying time by up to 50 per cent, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the finer things in life!

STEAL OF THE WEEK

A good travel hairdryer can be a life-saver on holiday, when heat and humidity frequently make our hair go bonkers. GHD’s Flight hairdryer is 60 per cent lighter than the full-size equivalent, but has 85per cent of the power, and until the end of March you can get it alongside the Platinum Black Styler for just £180, which represents a saving of £34. Holiday hair sorted.

GHD Ultimate Travel Gift Set, £180, Uniquer Hair Design, Gorseinon

SQUEEZE… Are you one of those people who just HAS to get that last drop of toothpaste or face cream out of the tube, squeezing until you’re red in the face? Well, here’s a tool that will do the hard work for you. The Squidger, £4.99, attaches to a folded tube and forces even the unreachable dregs, saving you time, effort - and money. Squidger, £4.99, www.squidger.co.uk

KMS California Freehshape Quick Blow Dry, £14, feelunique.com

THIS MONTH

WE LOVE LAURA DAVIES rounds up some of her favourite products this month laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

NEGLECTED LENGTHS NO LONGER

BRIGHT PINK PERFECTION

MAC Viva Glam Taraji P. Henson Lipstick, £16.50, and Lipglass, £15, Debenhams, Swansea

Tapping into a major spring fashion and beauty trend, this year’s MAC Viva Glam collection is bright pink perfection. Created in collaboration with actress of the moment Taraji P. Henson, the fuchsia matte Lipstick and pearlescent Lipglass helps to fund the fight HIV/AIDS via charities all over the world.

HAIR & BEAUTY

Give your mid lengths and ends some unconditional love between washes with Aveda’s new hybrid hair product Aveda Shampure Thermal Dry Conditioner 100ml, £25, www. aveda.com. Spritz the thermal dry spray on hair to instantly condition, detangle, and soften hair on non wash days. And it doesn’t make your hair as dry as some dry shampoos.

BUY IT NOW

We LOVE Philip Kingsley’s Coconut Breeze Elasticizer, a pre-shampoo conditioning treatment that gives hair an intensive moisture boost and increases manageability, softness and shine without adding any weight. The Coconut Breeze fragrance is designed to transport your senses to more exotic clime and smells absolutely divine! £19 (75ml), £32, (150ml), www.philipkingsley.co.uk

x1 We Love_SLMAR17.indd 1

BEE BUZZ!

EXOTIC BOOST

It’s nigh on impossible to find a lip colour that’s moisturising AND gives high-impact pigment payoff, but it looks like lip balm experts Burt’s Bees have cracked it. The new all-natural lipsticks come in 18 silky shades from pinky Iced Iris to deep Orchid Ocean, plus lots of neutrals ideal for everyday wear. Burt’s Bees Lipstick in Suede Splash, £9.99, Holland and Barrett, Swansea

If you’re loving matte velvet lipstick at the moment (we certainly are), you’ll know that a good lip liner is a must if you want clearly defined, long-lasting colour, but collecting one for every shade is a bit of a pain (and not cheap). Enter Max Factor Color Elixir Universal Lip Liner, £4.99, Boots, a colourless pencil created with waxes that don’t melt at skin temperature, so your lippie won’t stray where it’s not meant to Boots, Parc Fforestfach and Swansea

HAIR REPAIR Check out this fab hair treatment mask which will work wonders on dry locks. A walnut-size amount of this intensely nourishing treatment will encourage strength and shine. Infused with Moroccan Argan Oil and indulgent shea butter, it will leave hair feeling silky smooth at an affordable price. Andrew Barton SOS Hair Repair Treatment Mask, £3.60, Asda, Llansamlet, Gorseinon and Llanelli

23/02/2017 14:27

HAIR & BEAUTY

REAL WOMEN, WINNING LOOKS W ITH

C H R I S

H O W E L LS

Swansea based International Make Up Artist and recent winner of the National Federation of Hairdressing’s Welsh Make Up Artist of the Year award, Chris Howells, gives a Swansea mum and daughter a makeover in time for Mother’s Day

WHO IS CHRIS HOWELLS? Chris is an International make-up artist who lives in Swansea. He has worked as a make-up artist for more than 15 years, working with a number of prestigious beauty brands including Laura Mercier. He was trained by and worked for the iconic Laura Mercier herself, which has led to him travelling to some of the most prestigious beauty cathedrals and fashion shows around the globe. Just a few weeks ago, Chris won Welsh Make Up Artist of the Year 2016 in the National Federation of Hairdressing’s (NFH) annual and prestigious Welsh Hairdressing and Beauty Awards. Chris plans to use his experience and award winning tips to give Swansea Life readers expert advice and new looks.

MEET ALLISON & JESSICA..

With Mother’s Day just around the corner Allison and Jessica wrote in to request a makeover for a night out together. This almost never happens as they are so busy running Allison Jayne Bridal in Swansea, Cardiff and Bristol and the newest string in their bow Jessica Louise in Mumbles. Both of these gorgeous ladies have fabulous skin and really look after it, cleansing and treating it every night before bed. Allison loves to use Chanel Sublimage skincare and when she can find the time she uses a treatment mask. Jessica prefers to go for quick and easy cleansing and swears by Estee Lauder Take the Day off Wipes. She occasionally uses Advance Night Repair and Revitalizing Supreme moisturiser.

Before...

On Allison I applied my all-time favourite Nuxe Huille Prodigieuse Dry Oil. Followed by Embryolisse Lait Crème concentre and a little Laura Mercier Repair Eye Serum to brighten and hydrate. Then I smoothed Laura Mercier Radiance Primer over her whole face and followedg with Cover FX crème foundation, buffing it gently into the skin using the brand’s specialist foundation brush. I perfected under the eyes and around the nose area with Nars Soft Matte Concealer and made the cheeks pop with a little Laura Mercier crème blush in Blaze. On Allison’s eyes I used Khaki and Smoke Caviar sticks by Laura Mercier, lashings of mascara and finished the look with the Kajal Stick in Noir and Lashes “Cheryl Cole” by

WIN

Your very own make over with Chris! All you need to do is send your details, along with a picture of yourself, to laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

Eylure. I used a Brow Sculpting Pencil by Hourglass in Dark Brunette. I chose Laura Mercier Liquid Lipstick in Vermillion Red for Allison’s lips. On Jessica, I used the Radiance Primer, followed by Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser and a hint of Nars Soft Matte Concealer. I applied Laura Mercier Crème Cheek Colour in Praline and a highlighter by Cover FX Custom Enhancer Drops in Celestial! Her eyes are dressed with a Caviar stick in Jungle and blended out with Fresco eye colour. I used Urban Decay eye pencil in charcoal grey to buff out under the lash and a vibrant purple was used in the water line to make her emerald green eyes pop. I used Brow Sculpt by Hourglass and Laura Mercier Lip Colour in Pink Dusk and Bellini in nude over the top.

68 | www.swansealife.co.uk

DPS Chris Howells _SLMAR17.indd 1

23/02/2017 15:29

After...

Pictured: Mum Allison Jayne Letheren with daughter Jessica Louise and their dog Louis. Makeup: Chris Howells Photography: James Richards www.swansealife.co.uk | 69

DPS Chris Howells _SLMAR17.indd 2

23/02/2017 15:29

FASHION-EDITORIAL-BRIDAL EXPERT Email: Chrishowells_uk@yahoo.co.uk tel: 07830230887

Instagram: ChrisHowellsMakeup facebook: ChrisHowellsMakeup

WINNER NHF WELSH MAKEUP ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2016 2017MarAdsPlan.indd 70

23/02/2017 19:48:22

Subject

Photo: www.justinharrisphotography.co.uk

BRIAN BROWN SALON MODELLING & MANAGEMENT AGENCY

01792 301901 1 BELLEVUE WAY . SWANSEA . SA1 5BZ

www.briandbrown.co.uk 10

WM Winter 2016

2017MarAdsPlan.indd 71

23/02/2017 19:48:36

HAIR & BEAUTY

Makeover!

W ITH

L ARA

JOHNSON

Mumbles stylist & salon owner Lara Johnson shares her tips in her monthly column.

After

Before... 72 | www.swansealife.co.uk

DPS Lara_SLMAR17.indd 1

23/02/2017 15:16

Step by step... Milkmaid Plait The milkmaid plait is a sweet and simple everyday style. This look has been around for years yet has clearly stood the test of time as it is seen regularly on the fashion runways. This style works well with straight or wavy hair, and is perfect if you have extremely long hair - the plait has to be able to reach the other side of the head to achieve the true milkmaid effect. Even beginner plaiters can complete this style as it simply involves plaiting each side of the hair and draping the plaits over the top of the head

Make over... Model: Maisie Occupation: Student and model in Swansea

MAISIE SAYS... I am a student and part time model originally from Nottingham. My lifestyle is pretty busy with study and part time work so I like to wear my hair short. The only problem I have with my hair is that I tend to get a bit bored of it especially if I’m going out to a special occasion. My hair had become quite a yellowish, gold colour which I don’t particularly like and I wanted the make over to give me more of a clean Scandinavian blonde look. I love the colour I have now. It feels like it’s much more natural. The ideas and style that Lara Johnson’s team has given me really works for what I want. I didn’t think I could feel so glamorous with short hair. My favourite thing about the change, is that the stylists understood that I didn’t want to go crazy with my hair, and they have kept it looking soft and natural. They showed me how to create loads of volume and create a hair up do, which I have been able to do myself. I really enjoyed my morning at the salon. I was a little nervous but I really didn’t need to be, everybody was really friendly and listened to what I wanted

Difficulty level: Easy Ideal hair length: Long Assistance needed: No What you need: Brush Hair bands Hair Grips

LARA JOHNSON TEAM SAY... Maisie’s hair had been coloured a few weeks before but we both felt it was too warm on her. The colour had gold tones in it, which after consultation we agreed Maisie would be far more suited to a cooler shade of blonde. We highlighted Maisie’s hair using three different tones of cooler blonde shades - rose blonde, pearl blonde and smokey amethyst blonde. These tones are far more compatible and complimentary to Maisie’s skin tones. We used a selection of colours so that her hair wouldn’t look too blocky or heavy Maisie’s hair is worn in a cropped style with a little length on the crown and through the fringe. Maisie’s request was to have glamorous evening hair. When dressing the hair it is important to prepare it properly. We cleansed it using Sebastian Pro Volume Active Shampoo and Conditioner. We then dried the hair after applying Sebastian Profession Volupt spray. When the hair was dry I set the hair with a little Shaper zero gravity hair spray and small tongs. When the hair had cooled, I brushed the hair out and gently backcombed it into a full shape and secured the look with a spritz of Shaper Zero Gravity. We believe it is important that you should be confident to style your own hair. Maisie learnt really quickly and found the products helped achieve the look she was after.

Start with dry hair. Divide the hair in half from the middle of the hairline down to the nape of the neck. Split one side into three sections and apply a simple three strand plait technique until you finish the full length of hair. Secure the ends with a hair band

Repeat the same technique on the other side. Then tug the sides of the plaits to plump them out and add volume. Use a little hairspray to help with hold

Once both sections have been plaited, wrap the right plait across the front of your hairline and pin the ends into the root against the scalp using hair grips.

Take the left plait and wrap it over to the right side, directly behind the first plait and secure with hair grips. Pin detail.

www.swansealife.co.uk | 73

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WINNER

BEST OF SWANSEA 2016

A T R U LY U N I Q U E HAIRDRESSING & BEAUTY EXPERIENCE Unit 7, Squire Court, Swansea Marina Telephone: 01792 460203 Beauty Salon - telephone 01792 470277 Visit: www.jamiehill-salon.com

2017MarAdsPlan.indd 74

24/02/2017 11:42:22

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HAIR & BEAUTY

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www.swansealife.co.uk | 75

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24/02/2017 13:40

HAIR & BEAUTY

EMMA’S BEAUTY CHATTER Former Miss Wales Emma Jenkins is a TV make-up artist and presenter from Llanelli. She talks about her favourite Mother’s Day buys. Follow her on Instagram/Twitter @emmavjenx

I think it would be unfair not to dedicate my March beauty column to all the wonderful mother’s out there, wouldn’t it? With Mothering Sunday fast approaching, here are a few beauty gifts that are perfect to keep our mums feeling fabulous!

NON-FUSS MUMS WILL LOVE... If your mum enjoys a basic beauty routine without too much frill and fuss, then the Clinique, ‘We Love Moisture’ gift set is perfect! Featuring an eye cream, mascara

and eye make-up remover, tucked into a cute little bag, all for £26.50, at Debenhams, Swansea. Bargain!

nightly routine. Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a new pair of slippers and some ‘smellies’?

MUMS WHO LOVE THEIR ‘CWTCHY’ NIGHTS IN...

MUMS WHO LOVE THEIR SKINCARE...

For a mum who loves nothing more than sitting in her dressing gown watching ‘The Voice’ on a Saturday night, why not buy her a little pamper set. Baylis & Harding’s ‘La Maison Sea Salt and Wild Mint Luxury Slipper Set’, was £30, now £18, Debenhams, Swansea, is the perfect addition to mum’s

The Olay Regenerist set £19.99, Superdrug, Swansea, is perfect for any mum who enjoys looking as youthful as ever! Featuring a full size pot of Olay Regenerist 3 Point Age-Defying Night Cream, and two deluxe samples of Olay Regenerist 3 Point Day Cream SPF30, it’s sure to be a mum-pleaser!

GLAMAZON MOMMAS! L’Oreal Paris Parisian Extravaganza Femme Fatale Gift Set, £19.99, Boots, Swansea. The clue is in the name! If your mother gives you a run for your money in the glam department, then she is sure to love this set to create the perfect smoky eye! Beautiful packaging and fabulous products make for a tantilising treat!

Head over to my vlog at swansealife.co.uk

1192 Laser & Beauty clinic WITH OWNER AND LASER EXPERT DONNALEE ALFORD

I FEEL LIKE I HAVE NEGLECTED MY FEET THIS WINTER, THEY NEED A BOOST; WHAT CAN I DO? When cold temperatures hit, a lot of us breathe a sigh of relief. There’s an upside to winter for busy women; we don’t have to shave our legs as carefully or tend to our feet because few people are going to see our toes for the next few months. But here’s the problem with that way of thinking; pedicures do more than keep our toenails looking lovely and lively. They nourish our poor, overworked feet – which take an even more brutal beating in winter. Pedicures will get your blood flowing. Does anything sound more amazing than the

thought of soaking your feet in warm water fragranced with scented oil? You won’t rip your stockings or tights – every woman who has gone too long between pedicures knows the feeling of pulling on a pair of tights and watching them shred slightly from your unfiled toes. If you keep up with your monthly pedicures your therapist will detect any potential problems she sees with your feet, including fungal nail infections and corns. Indulge in pure relaxation. Pure Organics pedicure spa products are organically based and inspired by nature. Designed by profes-

sionals for professionals they give a purely relaxing and luxurious spa experience that enhances skin. Smoothing, detoxifying and hydrating ingredients are the bases of Pure Organics and each scent is formulated to ignite senses and relax the mind and body.

“The diamond crystals contain Koniac Mannan, which is derived from the native Asian plant’s root, this enables detoxification as it naturally swells in water, speeding up the excretion of harmful toxins from the body.”

To have your question answered in the next issue of Swansea Life, email: donnalee@1192clinic.co.uk

1192 Laser and Beauty Clinic Liberty Stadium, Swansea, SA1 2FA Call: 01792 651412 • You can also book online at: www.1192clinic.co.uk

76 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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                     

                    

                           

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Wonderful care

FOR YOUR ELDERLY RELATIVES With two care homes owned by the same family, we can provide a continuity of care and support. A key worker is assigned to each resident which enables clients and their families to build a relationship with their carer. All our care is personalised and individual with a focus on being a home from home. With discreet support from the staff team we aim to encourage our residents to remain as independent as possible. Whatever level of care you or your loved one needs, we can provide it at Ocean Living and Hawthorn Court.

HAWTHORN COURT ENJOYING WONDERFUL VIEWS OVER SWANSEA BAY AND SPECIALISING IN DEMENTIA CARE, TYCOCH BASED HAWTHORN COURT IS ONE OF THE ONLY RESIDENTIAL HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY IN THE AREA THAT IS DEMENTIA REGISTERED. We work in collaboration with Age Cymru, the Alzehimer’s society and other specialist, professional organisations to enhance the everyday well-being of our residents. Hawthorn Court is registered for 25 residents. Having worked with us for over 10 years, home manager Liz Watkins has a huge array of experience in delivering high quality care. Together with her dedicated staff, the team ensure our resident’s needs are their number one priority. Our members of staff are continually developing their training and skills, so that they are qualified and confident both physically and mentally.

OCEAN LIVING LOCATED ON THE SEA FRONT IN MUMBLES, OVERLOOKING SWANSEA BAY (OPPOSITE VERDI’S), OCEAN LIVING HAS ALL THE HALLMARKS OF SOPHISTICATION AND STYLE BUT WITH A UNIQUE HOMELY FEEL THAT IS ENJOYED BY RESIDENTS, THEIR FAMILY AND FRIENDS. Ocean Living has been developed and designed specifically for luxury senior care living, with generous room sizes, opulent interior design, magnificent en suites and comfort all round. Ocean Living is registered for 15 residents. Freshly cooked to order meals are made by our resident chef, including breakfast, three course lunch, supper and of course home-baked cakes and desserts and are all serviced in our restaurant quality dining room. In-room dining facilities are also available if preferred - our aim is to make our residents feel at home.

HAWTHORN COURT

OCEAN LIVING

01792 201427

01792 361818

12 Bayswater Road, Tycoch, Swansea, SA2 9HA info@hawthorncourtcare.co.uk

www.hawthorncourtcare.co.uk 2017MarAdsPlan.indd 78

HAWTHORN COURT

Residential Home for the Elderly

734-6 Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4EL info@ocean-living.co.uk

www.ocean-living.co.uk

23/02/2017 19:49:14

Health & wellbeing

FOOD BENEFITS (page 80) DR CHARLOTTE (page 82) 10 FOODS TO KEEP YOU FULLER FOR LONGER (page 84) FOOD FIGHT (page 86)

DefyTime

Cosmetic Clinic & Medical Spa

HealthAndWellbeing_SLMAR17.indd 1

466 Gower Road, Killay, Swansea, SA2 7DZ Tel: 01792 208466

24/02/2017 11:43

HEALTH & WELLBEING

FOOD BENEFITS

Oats

Oats - so pale, so small, and so easy to ignore. But they have so many health and beauty properties they should be a must in everyone’s diet. And with overnight oats being a massive breakfast trend at the moment, there has never been a good enough time to eat oats. LAURA DAVIES looks at the benefits.should include it in our diet. laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

Prevents cardiovascular disease The antioxidants present in oats are beneficial for heart disease and the dietary fibres help lower the bad cholesterol. without affecting the good cholesterol. Eating oats helps to protect your body against heart disease. It helps reduce your cholesterol levels and keep your heart healthy.

@LawsDx

Supports weight loss Oats are low in calories and helps slow digestion and makes you feel fuller for longer. Therefore by reducing your hunger cravings you can potentially shed a few pounds

Protects skin

Prevents constipation

Oats have long been used as a soothing agent to relieve itch and irritation and has plenty of skin benefits. Oats not only moisturises and softens the skin but also helps to normalise the skin’s pH.

Oats are a rich source of fibre, both soluble and insoluble, which helps in regulating bowel movements. .

Athletic Performance

Controls blood sugar levels

Oats help to stabilise blood sugar and reduce the risk of type-2 diabetes. High fibre and complex carbohydrates slow down the conversion of this whole food to simple sugar and help delays the fall in blood sugar levels before meals and slows the rise after a meal.

Reduces cancer risk Oats which contains the same compound that helps prevent cardiovascular disease have shown in studies to help reduce the chance of hormone-related cancers like breast, prostate and ovarian cancer.

Oats are a rich source of carbohydrates which give the body the calories to meet the energy needs of the body. Studies show they alter metabolism in a good way. By eating them 45 minutes to an hour before exercise provides enhanced performance. They are also great to eat after post performance.

Treatment of Dry And Itchy Scalp

Oats are a natural moisturiser and can be applied on the hair to get rid of dryness and itchiness. It makes hair soft and shiny and removes excess sebum, oil and dirt accumulated in the scalp.

Reduces hypertension

If you suffer from high blood pressure, a daily dose of oats will help combat this problem and in turn, lower risk of hypertension.

Rich source of magnesium Oats are a rich source of magnesium, which is key to enzyme function and energy production, and helps prevent heart attacks and strokes by relaxing blood vessels, aiding the heart muscle, and regulating blood pressure. The high levels of magnesium nourish the body’s proper use of glucose and insulin secretion.

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Enhances immune response to disease There is a unique fibre in oats which can help stop infections and help eliminate bacteria

Reduces hypertension If you suffer from high blood pressure, a daily dose of oats will help combat this problem and in turn, lower risk of hypertension www.swansealife.co.uk | 81

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

ASK

DR. CHARLOTTE

Sketty GP and Swansea Life doctor Charlotte Jones gives expert advice on dealing with jaundice....

What is jaundice? It is where the whites of the eyes and skin colour (including inside the mouth and nose) are yellow due to a build of bilirubin in the body. In babies, jaundice usually appears about three days after birth and disappears by the time the baby is two weeks old. Are there any other symptoms older patients may have? • Patients symptoms will depend on the underlying cause but they may notice: • Pale stools and dark urine. • Itchy skin • Pain • Fatigue • Feeling unwell or weight loss Who gets it? Jaundice is one of the most common conditions that can affect newborn babies. It’s estimated 6 out of every 10 babies develop jaundice, including 8 out of 10 babies born prematurely. However, only around 1 in 20 babies has a blood bilirubin level high enough to need treatment.

A baby with jaundice receiving phototherapy

In adults, it is it more common in middle aged and older patients and also in those whose lifestyle might place them at risk of liver disease such as drug users and alcoholics as well as people travelling to ‘at risk’ areas but who don’t get their recommended vaccinations. What are the causes? The causes depend on what is stopping bilirubin from being removed from the body and are roughly divided into 3 main areas: 1. Pre-hepatic jaundice i.e. the bilirubin transport from spleen or blood is disrupted before it gets to the liver e.g. malaria, some forms of anaemia like sickle – cell anaemia, some medications etc 2. Intra-hepatic jaundice i.e. the bilirubin removal is disrupted within the liver e.g. liver damage, liver infections (eg hepatitis), alcohol abuse, liver cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) or Gilberts syndrome (genetic disorder where a faulty gene causes problems removing bilirubin from the liver) 3. Post-hepatic jaundice i.e. something obstructs or stops the bilirubin in bile from draining out of the gallbladder e.g. gallstones, tumours etc What should I do if I become jaundiced? See your GP / ring 111 if your surgery is shut so that they can identify the cause of your jaundice. They will probably want to run some urine and blood tests on you (including a liver function test) as well as refer you for some imaging and to see a specialist. How is it treated? The treatment will depend on the underlying cause. But for most newborn babies it resolves without any special treatment after just a few weeks.

82 | www.swansealife.co.uk

x1 Dr Charlotte_SLMAR17.indd 1

24/02/2017 13:42

FREE GOLF TUITION for MEN 50+ at Langland Bay Golf Club plus 3 Months membership for JUST Â£90

Ye ar

ls We

2013

LANGL A

B LU

BAY GOLF C D N

olf Club of th

Langland Bay Golf Club are running an initiative to start in April 2017 that will allow beginners to have free funded tuition and a 3 month temporary golf membership.

The induction day will start Sunday 2nd April where you will receive a free lesson and a show around the facility.

Then you will receive expert tuition for 6 FREE Lessons in a relaxed environment where you will be taught to play to a standard that you can develop and enjoy.

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Contact Andrew Minty on 01792 361721 for additional information.

LanglandBay Bay Golf Golf Club Langland Club EXCLUSIVE MULTI AWARD WINNING AFFORDABLE Langland Bay Golf Club, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4QR t: 01792 361721 www.langlandbaygolfclub.com 2017MarAdsPlan.indd 83

24/02/2017 13:20:34

your appetite in check…

U FULL O Y P E ER E K F GER ON RL O

10 FOO DS T

HEALTH & WELLBEING

reducing cravings for sugary ‘quick fixes’, and keeping us satiated.

1. BEAT CRAVINGS WITH EDAMAME BEANS

Edamame Beans are great to snack on or to add to soups, salads and casseroles. They are high in fibre to help make you feel full and help prevent overeating and snacking. They are a great way of keeping your appetite under control and have the added benefit of being high in protein, which will also help keep you fuller for longer

2. HAVE SOUP AS A STARTER

If you have soup before a meal you will end up eating fewer calories during the meal because soup stops the cells in the stomach producing your hunger hormone ghrelin and turns off your appetite. Studies show the body registers greater satisfaction when food is liquidised and soup moves out of the stomach more gradually than a solid meal would, leaving you feeling more satisfied for longer

3. ‘EGG-CELLENT’ FOR YOUR HUNGER

Eggs make a great snack as the combination of protein and good fats help you feel fuller for longer. Try boiling them in advance, and keeping them in the fridge as an easy snack to enjoy on the go. They will last up to a week.

4. OPT FOR OATS

Loving porridge oats? Oats are packed with a form of soluble dietary fibre; ‘beta glucans’ which support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements with the excretion of dietary waste and toxins. These help prevent the bloat and supports a reduction in the rise in blood glucose levels that occurs after meals. By keeping blood glucose levels stable, we feel fuller for longer and experience fewer of those nagging sweet cravings. Jazz up your oats with goji berries, cinnamon, almond milk, and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds.

7. BOOST YOUR SATISFACTION WITH BROCCOLI

Within an hour of having breakfast are you already checking the clock, counting down the hours until lunch? To resist your hand raiding the biscuit tin LAURA DAVIES looks at extra-satisfying foods to aid you in keeping your appetite in check… laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

Porridge is a great breakfast for fitness fanatics or gym-goers – either before or after training. The slow-releasing carbohydrates in oats are fantastic for powering a workout or for restoring muscles after training, and magnesium is vital for muscle function too

5. GET YOURSELF SOME GREEK YOGURT

Greek yogurt is a great source of protein which helps you to stay fuller for longer and is low in sugar, yet rich in calcium.

6. HALT THE HUNGER WITH QUINOA

This gluten-free carbohydrate is packed full of protein. When protein is combined with a carbohydrate, it slows the rate at which sugar from that carbohydrate enters the blood stream. This is great for balancing blood sugar,

Broccoli is a great choice to help with weight loss mainly because it is so low in calories. Broccoli is also high in fibre and water – this helps create bulk without calories. The fibre helps make you feel full and also slows down digestion, which is a great way to help you to stop snacking.

8. DRIZZLE VINEGAR ON YOUR SALAD

Drizzling vinegar on your salad improves digestion by keeping food in the stomach longer, reducing the hunger hormone ghrelin. Vinegar also helps prevent blood sugar spikes after a meal, helping cravings for up to three hours after.

9. AID YOUR APPETITE WITH AVOCADOS

Once avoided because people thought they were fattening – we now know differently! Avocados are a great source of fat. The healthy monounsaturated fats help to satisfy hunger. They also contain an amino acid called L-carnitine that is used by the body when metabolizing fat. Avocados benefit weight loss by helping you to feel satisfied and reduce your desire to eat. Having half an avocado a day is a great tasting way to help with your weight management.

10. WHOLEGRAIN SPELT PASTA

Spelt can be easier to digest than wheat, and is less likely to cause bloating. The wholegrain versions also contain more nutrients than your standard white pasta, and will be slower to digest and absorb, keeping you full for longer.

84 | www.swansealife.co.uk

x1 fuller for longer_SLMAR17.indd 1

23/02/2017 14:54

PICKED AT 10, SERVED AT 2 Kale from our garden, carrots from the neighbours. The food on your fork matters. Picked in Gower, served in Gower.

Always open, always welcome. Eat. Drink. Sleep. fairyhill.co.uk | 01792 390139

2017MarAdsPlan.indd 85

23/02/2017 19:49:33

HEALTH & WELLBEING

FOOD FIGHT! Sometimes the key to dieting is not about changing your diet drastically, it can be about simple swaps and making smart decisions. LAURA DAVIES reveals 10 top tips to prevent overeating laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

1. TAKE A MINUTE

If you feel peckish, be strong and wait for a few minutes, distracting yourself by doing something that’s not food-related. Often the urge to eat will disappear, especially if you’re not really hungry. Similarly, delay having second portions or dessert. Our fullness mechanism takes time to kick in, so eat more slowly and take a break after your first course. It may be that you don’t feel hungry enough for seconds.

2. EAT SLOWLY

Remember the age-old advice to sip water between bites and chew food thoroughly before swallowing. Research has shown it takes at least 12 minutes for food satisfaction signals to reach the brain of a thin person, but 20 or more minutes for an obese person, so eating slowly gives these important messages more time to reach the brain.

3. BE AWARE WHAT YOU’RE CONSUMING

Don’t nibble at your desk or while you’re driving. When people are distracted or hurried, the food (and calories) eaten won’t register in the brain, so more is eaten than it should be.

4. PETITE PLATES

Use a smaller plate - your brain registers whether the portion size is big enough to satisfy you, and if the plate’s smaller, the meal will appear bigger. Studies have shown this helps obese patients control calories and weight.

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5. CHOOSE BIG FOODS

Try to avoid calorie-laden food that has very little volume like chocolate! Instead, opt for high-fibre and high-protein foods, like porridge or wholemeal bread, which look bigger on the plate and will fill you up, without filling you with calories too.

6. FIVE-A-DAY

Fill up on vegetables and fruit. Hunger responds to volume, not calories, so by filling up your plate and stomach with two to three portions of vegetables or fruit, you can trick your body into being satisfied.

7. SMOOTH SNACKS

Buy a smoothie maker, or if you’ve already got one, keep it on the side near your fruit bowl to make it easier to whip up a healthy and filling drink.

8. SCOFF SALAD FIRST

Start buffet meals with plenty of salad to help fill you up with nutritious, lower-calorie food.

9. LITTLE AND OFTEN

Waiting too long to eat when you’re physically hungry can send you on an emergency hunt for food without the willpower to make healthy choices. Try to eat a small amount regularly - every four to five hours - to keep your blood sugar and energy stable, but make sure you’re snacking on healthy food like fruit, or a handful of unsalted seeds or nuts, which will fill you up and fill you with goodness too.

10. KEEP TREATS AT A SAFE DISTANCE

Keep temptation out of the way by making sure there are no sweet treats in the house. If you need to walk to the corner shop to gorge on sweets, you’re far less likely to do it. Keeping lots of treats in the house is a recipe for disaster for overeaters.

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Food & drink

TAFARN Y DERI (page 90) FOOD LIBRARY WITH NATHAN LLOYD (page 92) RECIPES WITH BETH ROSE (page 102)

Norton Road, Mumbles, Swansea, SA3 5TQ 01792 404 891 www.nortonhousehotel.co.uk

FoodAndDrink_SLMAR17.indd 1

enquiries@nortonhousehotel.co.uk Nortonhousemumbles @nortonhousemumb

01/03/2017 20:37

FOOD & DRINK

90 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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What better way to enjoy a night out than around a table with family and friends. PETER SLEE tests out a new favourite...

ONE of the posse of friends with whom we regularly eat out are as much a fan of Friday nights out as are we. Is there anything better than kicking back for a lazy few hours after a hectic week in the office? It’s a simple pleasure but one enjoyed by so many. We sometimes take it in turns to decide where we are going. It’s their choice this particular night. Tafarn y Deri, they say, comes highly recommended. It was taken over towards the end of last year and its new entrepreneurial owners have wasted no time in putting their stamp firmly on the place. So Llaneddi it is then. Just a few minutes drive beyond the confines of Pontarddulais, we find it like a shining beacon on the roadside. The surroundings inside are astounding. A bit of a magical stroll along tiled floors and white walls washed with light. At one end of the room, some cosy-looking Chesterfields in front of a brick wall and a warming fire and, to one side, a pianist tinkling away on the old ivories. To the other, a huge conservatory. The place is packed with people enjoying a night out with friends. It all looks and feels fresh. An army of red-shirted, drilled staff and the jolly chatter of birthday parties, and friend and family meet-ups make for a great atmosphere.

The simplicity and quality of this place is trying to go all out for though is clearest in the food. A starter of panko breaded calamari (£5.50) with citrus fruits and a lemon creme fraiche was fresh and flavourful. Of the mains, I enjoyed a chestnut, butternut and spinach wellington (£12.50) , a rich and wonderfully autumnal dish , gratifying, with its feet firmly planted in the earth of nourishment. Mine came with chips; chunky little guys cloaked in thin skins which opened to reveal thick, fluffy interiors. Though the star of the day was probably the fillet steak rossini (£23.50) on the other side of the table to me. It was cooked to absolute perfection and bursting with flavour. Likewise the toasted croute topped with pate and a sauteed forest mushroom jus it came with. THE PLACE IS PACKED Oh and I must remember the

“

WITH PEOPLE

ENJOYING

“

TAFARN Y DERI

The kitchen has had a shake up too. Offering the best seasonal, local produce, their kitchen team have created a succinct menu of rustic, modern favourites with a bit of a twist.

A NIGHT OUT WITH FRIENDS

IT ALL LOOKS AND

potatoes. Potatoes are just potatoes, aren’t they? Well, not here they’re not. Here they come crushed with chorizo and spinach and are delicious.

Our sparky waitress recommends a lemon posset to finish up with. Creamy, naughty and my kind of pud which added to the stream of delicious, thoughtfully presented dishes which continued to surprise all night.

FEELS FRESH

So yes, all in all, a bit of an unexpected treat. Under a leaden-grey sky and on an evening when the mercury hovered around freezing, this was a meal that provided a much-needed injection of warmth and a fist-bumping stampede of flavours. This place warmed us up nicely in every way imaginable. Tafarn y Deri Ebenezer Road, Llanedi. 01792 883318

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FOOD & DRINK

Nathan Lloyd’s

KITCHEN LIBRARY Swansea Life columnist and food blogger Nathan has been checking out the latest foodie developments in the city and likes what he finds!

Six Nations Buffet Nothing brings us together like sport, or so they say. To some of us football, rugby, tennis or (heaven help us) golf are totally anathema. That being said there are some ways we can use rugby as an excuse to throw a little party, have a little fun or even shut our significant others in the living room while the real fun happens in the kitchen or the back room. Food, in this WALES: Let’s start with the best bit! The options here are endless, I suppose, and you could go for something laver bread or cockle based but I’m electing for Pear Tree Deli’s Ddraig Goch sausage rolls. The Deli is based in Ammanford but they frequently appear at the markets in Morriston, Uplands and the Marina. Fiery and delicious they’ll be the star of the show for sure. ENGLAND: In the spirit of international cooperation, particularly in these increasingly xenophobic times, I suppose we simply must include a nod to the ‘old enemy’. Combine anything with alcohol and no one will complain! How about trying a cocktail using Fentiman’s rose lemonade with a generous serving of vodka or gin? Either way it’ll see you handsomely through the rugby, regardless of the result. SCOTLAND: You’d be forgiven for going for Scotch Eggs here and leaving it at that but I’m going to suggest the vegan Haggis from Brontosaurus Vegan in Swansea Market. Even for meat eaters haggis can be off-putting but this vegan option is delicious and will bring a bit of novelty to proceedings. Serve as fritters or lollipops for that instant wow factor.

instance, is the great unifying factor. The easiest and most fun thing to do is theme the food around the different nations. Fortunately, Swansea has you covered for all the possibilities. So here a few suggestions to tantalise your guests (and/or soak up a bit of the booze )

ITALY: Here’s an easy one. In South Wales you’re spoiled for choice for Welsh Italian delights. La Parmigiana in Swansea is a deli come cafe come restaurant of renown. If you’ve never been then stop what you’re doing and go book a table now, if you have been you’ll know that Francesca’s antipasti is delizioso. IRELAND: The temptation here is to forego the food and just pull out a slab of Guinness, but we want this to be a bit more considered and local so how about our very own Sian Day’s Baileys Welsh Cakes? It’s a bit of a stretch but I’m sure your guests will forgive you when they hear those three magical words spoken together: “You had me at Welsh cakes!” FRANCE: The French are tough to beat in many ways, they frequently play the best rugby and they frequently make the best food, so nothing short of quality will do. Cheese boards are great to have on a buffet as they look sophisticated and cater for a wide variety of tastes. I recommend a selection of fromage Francais from Goodies Deli in Swansea market. Don’t settle for supermarket when the best is on your doorstep.

Dragon Heart Pancakes Hopefully the last of the cold weather is behind us and now we can look forward to the Daffs making an appearance and the return of the sunshine. Cheer yourself up of a lazy Sunday morning with these fresh and moreish pancakes, made with as many Welsh ingredients as you can get your hands on. You’ll need: For the pancakes: •100g self raising ﬂour, •50ml non-dairy milk (I used Oatly) •1 mashed banana, •2tbs golden syrup/agave nectar •Pinch of salt

• Pinch of good quality salt (I used Halen Môn vanilla salt) Begin with the dragon heart so it has plenty of time to set (overnight is ideal).

For the strawberry & raspberry dragon heart: • Handful of frozen raspberries • Handful of frozen strawberries • Splash of water •1tbs golden syrup/agave nectar • Splash of gin (I used Brecon Gin by Penderyn Distillery) • A few fresh raspberries and strawberries

Start by heating up the frozen raspberries, strawberries, water and golden syrup/agave nectar in a pan. Simmer until they start to release their juice, add the gin and stir. Remove from the heat and whizz in a food processor until it forms a coulis. Set aside and leave to cool. When it’s cool pour the contents into a heart or dragon shaped mould (I used a cookie cutter on a plate!) and put in the freezer to set.

For the salted caramel sauce •1 tbs non dairy cream (I used Oatly) •10ml of water • 20g sugar

For the salted caramel, dissolve the sugar and the water in a pan. Raise the heat until it starts to form a caramel then add the non-dairy cream and stir in a pinch of Halen

Môn. Set aside and leave to cool. Sieve the ﬂour into a bowl and begin to pour in half of the nondairy milk, stirring gently with a whisk the whole time. Now add the mashed bananas and bring together into a thick batter, making sure you whisk out any lumps in the ﬂour. At this point you can judge how much more milk you need - for Scotch or American style pancakes it needs to be quite thick. Whisk in the sugar and the salt. When it’s ready, pour into a lightly oiled, hot frying pan

and watch like a hawk. When the sides start to cook and the middle is bubbling ﬂip it over with a ﬁsh slice. Adjust the temperature of the pan to suit your needs. When each side is golden brown set aside. After frying they might need 5-10 mins in the oven to make sure they are cooked through. When you’re ready to assemble, stack the pancakes high and be as creative as you like with soy whip, caramel sauce and top it with the dragon heart.

92 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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24/02/2017 10:25

WE ARE AFTERNOON TEA Introducing afternoon tea but not how you know it. Reinvented, reinvigorated and redeveloped. Sweet, savoury or simple - you decide. The taste speaks for itself.

Always open, always welcome. Eat. Drink. Sleep. fairyhill.co.uk | 01792 390139

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FOOD & DRINK STILL WATERS

APPY TEA TIME

Dualit Classic Polished Kettle 1.7L Rapid & Whisper Boil 72815, £129.99, Lakeland, Parc Trostre

Smarter iKettle 2.0, £99.99, Maplin, Llansamlet Stopping for a brew isn’t always convenient. At a film’s climax, pausing to switch the kettle on is an unnecessary diversion, likewise, lurching out of bed on a Saturday morning. But the problem is, the thirst for a comforting cuppa remains. This is where an iKettle comes good. Download the app and then flick the kettle on from anywhere in your house using your smartphone. You can also set the temperature of the kettle and have it notify you when it reaches the right point.

Gadgets with bells and whistles on them can be great - but actual noisy bells and whistles? Less so. This is where this Dualit kettle comes into its own. Awarded a Quiet Mark from the Noise Abatement Society, the kettle gently boils water without disturbing your ears, quietly clicking off when the water is ready. A cupful of water takes just 48 seconds to boil, promptly leading you to that restorative cuppa.

WATER GOOD IDEA Russell Hobbs 22851 Plastic Brita Kettle, £32.99, Argos, Parc Pemberton and Swansea

MAD HATTER’S TEA PARTY Sage by Heston Blumenthal the Tea Maker Kettle, Silver, £199, John Lewis, Cardiff This might be a whopping £199, but with the brains of ever-i nventive chef Heston Blumenthal behind it, it might just be worth it. The motorised basket lowers leaves in and out of the water at the exact right time to ensure the optimum cup of Rosie. There are 15 customised settings and the option to vary the strength and temperature of your brew too.

TIME FOR TEA

Make your cuppa as fresh as possible by using a filter. This one by Brita will sift your H2O through a hopper and into the kettle before boiling, to ensure a cleaner -tasting brew. If hot drinks aren’t to your liking, there’s nothing stopping you using the kettle to filter cold water as well.

Whether it’s with two sugars, a dash of milk or a herbal infusion, LAURA DAVIES picks out six of the best gadgets for brewing up, just in time for Dementia UK’s Time For A Cuppa Week, March 1-8 laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

JUST MY CUP OF TEA Breville VKJ785 Multi Temperature Glass Kettle, £61.99, www.very.co.uk Whether it’s a green tea, a mint infusion or a builder’s brew, each variety of tea comes with an optimal temperature. To help you get the most out of your char, this kettle from Breville has five different temperature settings, also handy if you’re a coffee drinker too. The glass kettle rests on the touch pad, which also doubles up as the dashboard, illuminating all your temperature options.

APP

OF THE WEEK

TEA ROUND, FREE, ITUNES

THE A-TEA Dualit Espress-auto 4 in 1 Coffee and Tea Machine 84516, £180, Amazon Take the strain out of big rounds by putting tech to work. Though pricey, this Dualit gadget can whip up a brew, as well as espressos, lattes and coffee orders. The tea function has a temperature gauge so you can reduce the heat to ensure infusions are at their best for that all-important first sip. There’s also a temperature boost function so tepid cups of tea are a thing of the past.

The office tea round can be a battleground - make yours a fairer system by downloading the Tea Round app. There, you can log who has brewed up - and who for. And if gently volunteering this info to the round-shy among you doesn’t stir them into action, you can resort to using the wheel function to choose a tea maker at random. Let’s hope it isn’t you!

94 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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20% OFF

SET DINNER MENU when booking via the website

T&C’s: Valid until 31st March 2017

Welcome to an unmissable new eating experience in Skewen! La Casona offers a New Mediterranean menu with the best in food from a range of Spanish & Italian-style dishes you will love. Run by Dadier Hernandez who has over 15 years in the restaurant industry locally and who knows how to keep his customers happy, La Casona offers modern, innovative cuisine, artistically presented and inﬂuenced by the classics of Mediterannean cuisine. Seating up to 150 people, the restaurant is suitable for any occasion and will happily tailor its offerings to suit YOU and your taste buds.

Whatever your mood or occasion there will always be a warm welcome...and, fantastic food!

SET DINNER

£14.95 STARTERS

Asparagus Chicken Livers Pinchos de Pollo Meat Balls Bruschetta al Pomodoro Garlic Bread Mussels in Garlic

MAIN 7oz Rump Steak Chicken Andalusia Salmon Lamb Chops Belly Pork Fillet of Seabass Spaghetti alla Napoletana Carbonara Pizza with Ham and Mushrooms Margherita

DESSERTS Tiramisu Pannacotta Chocolate Cake Ice Cream

All main courses served with a small side portion of steam rice and garnish. The Set Dinner Menu is available from Monday to Thursday.

207 NEW ROAD | SKEWEN | SA10 6ET

Tel: 01792

818182

or email reservations@lacasona-skewen.co.uk www.lacasona-skewen.co.uk 2017MarAdsPlan.indd 95

23/02/2017 19:50:10

Best places to Eat

Restaurant Guide Nine great places to eat and drink

BOOK NOW FOR MOTHER’S DAY! Pasta Pizza Ice Cream The Heart of The Seafront

Coffee Burgers Coffee

Family

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19/01/2015 13:31

The Heart of The Seafront

W e listen to our customers. You’ve told us what Burgers you want and that’s what we’ll deliver - superb food and drink in a spectacular setting with the warmest Pasta. of welcomes. Join us for a relaxing experience overlooking our magnificent Aberavon beach. P izza listen to our customers. You’ve told us what you want and that’s what we’ll Ice CreamWedeliver - superb food and drink in a spectacular setting with the warmest of 01639 welcomes. Join us for a882121 relaxing experience overlooking our magnificent Aberavon Family beach. Takewww.caferemos.com away food & drinks now available - open Monday-Sunday 9am-9pm.

01639 882121 • www.caferemos.com 2017MarAdsPlan.indd 96

24/02/2017 13:05:52

Best places to Eat PORT TALBOT

The Twelve Knights Hotel Margam Road, Port Talbot, SA13 2DB Tel: 01639 882381 • Pub website: www.twelveknights.co.uk

Famous for our delicious grills, generous pub classics and brilliant daily deals, join us whatever the occasion to enjoy a warm welcome and friendly service from our team! Join us every night of the week for... • 2 for £12 on a selection of main meals Monday – Friday • Fantastic deals at our weekly Burger Night, Grill Night & Spice Night • Add any starter or dessert for just £2 with a Sunday Roast Mother’s Day: 3 courses £16.99 • 2 courses £13.99 per person* Free glass of Prosecco for Mum only when you pre-book* *Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.sabrain.com for details

Like us on Facebook & Follow us on Twitter! http://www.facebook.com/twelveknights http://www.twitter.com/twelveknights

Madeira Restaurante SWANSEA

Open Mon - Sat 12 - 10pm

LUNCH MENU 12 - 5PM ONLY £9.95 T&C's apply

Book now for Mother’s Day Lunch Sunday 26th March

We are a family run business in the heart of Swansea offering an extensive range of freshly prepared Portuguese dishes including vegetarian, fish, poultry, meat and pasta options

Tel: 01792 470000

46 The Kingsway, Swansea SA1 5HG

www.madeirarestaurantswansea.co.uk

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Best places to Eat PONTARDULAIS

Papi’s Pizzeria 7a St.Teilo Street, Pontardulais, Swansea SA4 8TH 01792 928442 • www.papispizzeria.com

Papi’s Pizzeria is a traditional Italian take away with a selection of freshly prepared pizzas cooked in our wood fire oven. We also have a selection of homemade pasta with freshly cooked sauces. Catering service now available for any occasion with a delivery service. Ask for details. Open Tues-Sat 11am-10pm and Sun 5pm-10pm. Delivery service available. View our menus online.

MUMBLES

Forte’s Ice Cream Parlour Limeslade Bay, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4JT Tel: 01792 368863 • Email: forteslimeslade@hotmail.com

Forte’s first cafe was opened in Mumbles in 1936. The same family is running their cafe at Limeslade for over 50 yrs. All our ice cream is homemade and introducing new for 2017 a 10 flavour display freezer. Also serving a variety of Drinks, Cakes, Sandwiches, Panini, Jacket Potatoes and Homemade Soups. Our popular BYO Bistro evenings will return in the summer. Check our Facebook Business Page: Fortes Ice Cream Parlour Mumbles Opening hours: October to February 10-4 • March to September 10-5 June, July and August 9.30-6.30

SWANSEA VALLEY

Craig Y Nos Castle Brecon Road, Penycae, Powys SA9 1GL 01639 73 11 67 • www.craigynoscastle.com

Mother’s Day Sunday 26th March 2017. 3 Course Dinner only £19.95 per person. Call today 01639 73 11 67 www.craigynoscastle.com info@craigynoscastle.com

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W FOR O N K BOO ’S DAY R E H T MO

24/02/2017 13:06:14

Best places to Eat GORSENION

The Riverside Inn 1 High St, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 4BX (opp. ATS Tyres) 01792 896037 • www.riversideinngorseinon.co.uk

We are a family run restaurant and grill house serving freshly home cooked meals and freshly made desserts to die for! Book early for Sunday Lunches, Birthday parties & any special occasions. We offer a friendly service, a Children’s play area and lots more. £5 Lunchtime menu. 10% OAP discount. TC’s apply. Visit our website for a virtual tour before booking.

W FOR O N K BOO

Find us opposite ATS Tyres

’S DAY R E H T MO PONTLLIW

The Buck Inn Swansea Rd, Pontlliw, SA4 9EF 01792 892294 • www.thebuckinnsa4.co.uk

Welcome to The Buck Inn in Pontlliw, a friendly pub & restaurant located just off the M4. Excellent range of menus. We are a food orientated environment also offering real ales & a carefully chosen range of wines & beers. We are serving authentic Caribbean food and also a delicious range of traditional foods. Book now for special occasions including Mother’s Day. Look at our menus online.

SWANSEA

The Smiths Arms 51-52 Neath Road, Hafod, SA1 2HR 01792 466776

Family friendly pub serving food daily. Serving for food Monday-Wednesday 12-3pm & 5-8pm, Thursday & Friday 12-8pm, Saturday 11.30-6pm Sunday carvery 12-4pm. Choice of 3 meats £6.45. Curry & Pint night every Thursday 5-8pm. Free newly refurbished function room for parties. Car park at rear of building.

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FOR W O N BOOK AY ER’S D H T O M 24/02/2017 13:06:25

90 Walter Road, Swansea, SA1 4QF 01792 644688 www.ndjohn.co.uk

The wines to watch in 2017 IT’S A FAMILIAR SCENARIO, NEW YEAR, NEW YOU, SAME OLD WINE CHOICES.......BUT YOU NEED NOT FRET BECAUSE HERE AT N D JOHN WINE MERCHANTS WE HAVE INDEED KEPT OUR COLLECTIVE EYE ON THE PRIZE OVER 2016 AND HAVE ONCE AGAIN POLISHED UP OUR CRYSTAL BALL TO PEER INTO THE COMING YEAR AND SEE WHAT MAY WELL BE FILLING YOUR GLASS AT HOME, IN BARS OR AT YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANTS.

ith wines from all over the world tipped to take centre stage this spring including Portuguese reds and whites, sparkling reds, white wines from the Swartland region in South Africa and Bordeaux whites we think it’s the stars of the Loire Valley in central France who will shine the brightest!

We predict big things for these old world French classics especially the white wines of the region and welcome a comeback for these affordable, ever evolving, delicious and often under represented wines. The ‘Valle de la Loire’ is situated on the middle stretch of the famous Loire river in Central France where the flourishing viticulture of the area dates as far back as the 1st century AD and is home to many grape varieties you will already know and love such as Pinot Noir, Savignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc.

BLANK 5-pageJames.indd 88

Traditionally, the most popular white wine producing areas from Loire such as Sancerre and Pouilly Fume use the Sauvignon Blanc grape to produce fantastic crisp and herbaceous white wines alongside rich, full bodied wines that age well but we think this year the smaller regions such as Saumur or Vouvray where the Chenin Blanc varietal is used, could be set to become as well known to consumers as they are to the trade. These lesser known, largely family owned estate producers again create the most sublime light and fruity whites right through to rich, flavoursome and full bodied rackable wines that are all set for big things this year. With 2014 and 2015 already being excellent vintages for all wine production in the Loire valley we think now is the best time to get on board and try these three exceptional wines from the old world and raise a glass to the new year!

Domaine de Maltaverne Pouilly Fumé ‘L’Ammonite’ £13.95

Saumur Blanc, Langlois-Chateau £9.95

Ripe and concentrated on the nose, smokey and grassy with minerality and a peppery herbaceous note. The palate is also super smokey with a wonderful flintiness, as well as herbal and bay aromas and ripe pink gooseberries.

A lifted fresh and approachable, fruity Saumur which offers the freshness of its chalky soil with the white flowers and honeyed characteristics of its grape varietal.

Vouvray Demi-Sec, Les Coteaux Tufiers £8.95 A delicious off-dry style of Chenin Blanc with stony minerality, fresh just-picked walnuts, a hint of lime and a slightly sappy fresh note. The palate is honeyed with apple, ginger and a clean mineral finish. The sweetness is perfectly integrated and balanced, resulting in a refreshing wine with good length.

1/21/2017 9:45:01 PM

TREAT YOUR MUM THIS

MOTHER’S DAY Come and celebrate Mother’s Day with us at the Oxwich Bay Hotel.

Why not take your Mum somewhere special?

Treat your Mum to afternoon tea with Prosecco, or even a 5 course lunch in our sea view restaurant. Afternoon tea and Prosecco £19.95 after 3pm 5 course lunch from £29.95 Go on, treat your Mum this Mother’s Day!

For more information call our reservations team today on 01792 390329 or visit:

www.oxwichbayhotel.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

A piece of the piste P I C K

O F

T H E

C R O P

PETER SLEE selects an array of wines to enjoy this month... One of the best ways to enjoy our still sometimes cold March weather is in the comfort of a cosy mountain retreat, imbibing the joys of a catered ski chalet holiday. But you don’t have to be a skier to indulge in Alpine dishes and replicate the homely atmosphere you would expect to come back to after a hard day on the slopes. Along with a rewarding glass of wine, comfort food such as a cheese fondue or warming casserole can make you think it’s not such a bad thing to be stuck indoors after all - or keep those ski trip memories of snow-covered peaks close to your heart.

PRISTINE WHITES

Waitrose Gruner Veltliner 2015, Austria (£6.99, Waitrose, Cowbridge) Austria’s signature white wine grape is growing in popularity and it produces remarkably refreshing wines with a hint of white pepper and spice, with a citrusy, herbal character. Try Waitrose own label with its lively acidity to cut through the fat and it won’t overpower the light nuttiness and fruity flavours of gruyere. Zalze Vineyard Reserve Bush Vine Chenin Blanc 2015, South Africa (£8.99, The Co-operative, Swansea marina) Fresh, fruity and fragrant, this cheery chenin has yellow apple and tropical fruit flavours with honeysuckle aromas, good minerality and a crisp, clean finish. Versatile and food friendly, the freshness and acidity has the edge to cut through a platter of charcuterie if your bread falls off the fondue fork!

FIRESIDE REDS

When it comes to simple pleasures such as a piping hot pasta bake or rustic casserole with savoury additions of herbs and vegetables, ripe, generous reds will bring out the best of the rich dark sauces and tomato bases... McGuigan Black Label Malbec 2016, South Eastern Australia (£7, Morrisons, Parc Morfa) The mighty malbec is Argentina’s flagship grape, but if you find the wines too heavy, this mediumbodied, easy drinking style shows all the lush blackberry, blueberry and plum flavours, with hints of chocolate, violets and spiced fruit, but incorporates the lighter elements of French malbec to bring out the best of both worlds. Notte Rossa Primitivo Di Manduria 2015, Italy (£10, Marks & Spence, Swansea) A wine with character, this full-bodied primitivo is a plum choice with bunches of sweet black forest fruits, savoury, earthy notes and traces of vanilla, chocolate, cherries and plums. With structured tannins and a lingering finish, it’s the best choice with a casserole or spicy stew if you want to match weight with weight.

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Mumbles BBC Masterchef semi-finalist Beth Rose shares her recipes with Swansea Life...

Sticky Chicken Thigh Flatbreads with Curryslaw I used to buy flatbreads until I realized how flipping easy they are to make at home, and how much tastier they are too! Indian coleslaw is a revelation. Crunchy raw vegetables in a creamy aromatic ‘Coronation chicken’-style dressing, that goes perfectly with sticky tender chicken thighs and fluffy flatbreads. Ingredients (serves 4) FOR THE STICKY CHICKEN • 4 chicken thighs, skin and bone removed • 1 tbsp curry powder • ½ tsp garlic powder • ½ tsp onion powder • ½ tsp mustard powder • 2 tbsp honey • 1 tsp black and white sesame seeds olive oil • salt and pepper FOR THE FLATBREAD • 160g self raising ﬂour • 140g full fat greek yoghurt • 1 tsp sesame seeds • 1 tsp mustard seeds • 1 tsp cumin seeds • 1 tsp fennel seeds • salt and pepper FOR THE CURRYSLAW • 1 small red onion • ½ red cabbage • 2 carrot • 4 spring onions • small bunch coriander • 1 lime • 1 pomegranate • 100g mayonnaise • 50g creme fraiche • 1 tsp garam masala • ½ tsp turmeric • ½ tsp nigella seeds • salt and pepper For the coleslaw, peel and finely slice the red onion and spring onions, shred the cabbage and roughly chop the coriander. Peel and grate the carrots. Add to a mixing bowl and

squeeze over the juice of the lime, add mayonnaise and creme fraiche and the spices. Cut the pomegranate in half, hold one half over the mixing bowl and hit hard with the palm of your hand so the seeds fall into the coleslaw. Give everything a good mix, check for seasoning and leave to the side for all the ingredients to become friends. Cut the chicken thighs into bite sized chunks. Add to a mixing bowl and mix with the yoghurt, curry powder, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder and season. Heat the griddle pan on a medium heat and add a glug of olive oil. Add your thighs to the pan and cook for around 4 minutes until browned on both sides. Drizzle over the honey, sprinkle in the sesame seeds and carry on cooking until the chicken is rich and sticky. Keep warm in an ovenproof dish and wipe clean the griddle pan. For the flatbreads, add all the ingredients into a mixing bowl and season. Bring together with a wooden spoon until you’ve got a ball of dough. Knead on a clean work surface for around a minute or so. Divide into 4 equal sized balls. Take one ball and flatten into a disc. Using a rolling pin, roll out your flatbread, rotating slightly between each roll to create a circle shape, around half cm thick. Heat your griddle until its very hot. Add one flatbread and cook until puffed up and charred, flip over and cook through. Repeat. Place your flatbreads on a plate, cover with a tin foil and keep in a low oven until serving.

24/02/2017 08:18

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23/02/2017 19:50:44

FOOD & DRINK

Three Best

Home cooking

D A I RY - F R E E A LT E R N AT I V E S

A deliciously simple recipe for March...

with Sian Day

Sainsbury’s Deliciously FreeFrom CheddarStyle Coconut Based Alternative To Cheese, £2.30 for 200g. Sainsbury’s, Swansea Coconut and soya provide protein in this dairy-free ‘cheese’. Although it doesn’t really taste strictly like Cheddar, you can use it in a similar fashion - on toast, in sarnies and jacket potatoes - for a nice creamy effect.

Spanish chicken Nush Almond Milk Yoghurt Peach Melba, £1.95 for 125g (Ocado)

This is a great way to spice up a chicken dish full of warming flavours and vibrant colours to brighten up a meal on a chilly Spring day. This recipe is inspired by a little Spanish bodega I visit regularly on my visits to Barcelona. They marinate the chicken overnight and spit roast it on an open wood fired oven.. Take it from me, it is the best chicken you will ever taste! However, this is as close as it gets in terms of flavour. Naturally, if you had an open fire and two willing volunteers to turn a spit wheel around for two hours then you would get the full package. So a gas or electric oven will have to suffice for most! Just be sure to baste the chicken whilst cooking to keep meat moist.

This is quite pricey compared with other similarly-sized yoghurts, but it is packed with almond goodness and makes for a tasty, filling snack.

Tesco Almond Unsweetened Milk, £1.40 for 1L. TescoExtra, Llansamlet and Swansea Many nut milks can be overly sweet, but this one strikes a good balance on flavours. Use on cereals, in cups of tea and for making puddings.

YOU WILL NEED...

METHOD

1 whole free range chicken or chicken thighs 2 whole garlic 1 orange or lemon 2 tsp thyme 2 tsp oregano 2tdp parsley Black pepper Sea salt Olive oil Smoked paprika New potatoes Chorizzo

Place the chicken into a roasting dish and pour over the olive oil then take the herbs, paprika, salt and pepper and rub over all the chicken this ensures the skin will be nice and crispy. Cut the garlic in half cut the lemon in half and place one half of each inside the chicken. This will infuse the meat with flavour from the inside out. Then thickly slice the chorizzo and cut the potatoes in half and tumble in to surround the chicken. Roast on 180 degrees for 1.5 hours keep basting the chicken during cooking every 30 minutes Serve with a green salad and some fresh, crusty bread!

FOLLOW SIAN’S DELICIOUS RECIPES on her blog page, siandaydream.wordpress.com, Facebook or Tweet her @SianDay 104 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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Make this Mothering Sunday a time to remember Well travelled executive chef Mark brings a wealth of experience to Tafarn y Deri, using his knowledge from studying at Neath College and working at Lorelei in Porthcawl and Cafe Deveraux in Wind Street. Mark will be working alongside head chef Dean and will be developing the menus to include not only family favourites but more international dishes.

lunchTime menu Tuesday to Saturday 12 noon to 2.30 pm

evening menu Monday to Saturday 5.30 pm to 9 pm

Sunday lunch Served 12 noon to 4 pm RESERvATioNS RECoMMENDED

STarTerS ➣ Cream of leek & potato soup ➣ Woodland mushrooms in a creamy garlic & white wine sauce on toasted ciabatta ➣ Classic prawn cocktail, ciabatta crisps, and TYD Marie rose sauce ➣ Swansea smoked salmon with crispy capers and citrus dressing ➣ Game terrine, mixed leaves & blackberry compote

main courSe ➣ Roast beef with Nan's Yorkshire pudding & roast potatoes ➣ Roast Turkey, cranberry stuffing & roast potatoes ➣ Roast leg of lamb with rosemary and cranberry stuffing ➣ Pan fried salmon with Penclawdd cockles and laver bread cream ➣ Butternut & roast pepper risotto All served with a selection of seasonal vegetables. Selection of home made desserts.

TAFARN

Y DERi

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Reservations taken for Mothering Sunday serving 12 noon to 6 p.m 1 Course £9.95 2 Course £12.95 3 Course £15.95

Tafarn y Deri Ebenezer Road, Llanedi. SA4 0YT Telephone 01792 883318 Approx 30 minutes from Swansea; ample car parking

www.tafarnyderi.com 23/02/2017 19:51:12

Lunch Menu 2 Courses - £12.95

3 Courses - £15.95

Starters Quay 3 Scotch Egg served with Mustard Mayo Crab meat & lime Mayo on Toast Deep Fried Brie with Cranberry & Gin Chutney Satay Chicken Skewers Salmon & Prawn Fish cake with Chilli Jam Bacon & Eggs: Poached Quails Eggs, Pancetta Crisp & Black Pudding Soup of the Day with fresh bread Pate & homemade toast

Mains Cod Fillet in Beer Batter, Pea Puree, Hand Cut Chips & Tartar Sauce Smoked Salmon Carbonara Risotto of the Day Buttermilk Chicken with Quay 3 Slaw & Hand Cut Chips Warm Chicken Super food Salad Lamb Chops with Crushed Potato & Salsa Verde Pork & Leek Sausage with Wholegrain Mash, Red Onion Jus & Braised Leeks 7oz Rump Steak, Cherry Tomato & Hand Cut Chips (£2 supplement) Available Monday to Saturday 12:00pm to 4:00pm

We are here

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Eat. Drink. Play. Repeat. 2017 at the heart of the Marina

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Bistro

Weddings and Functions

Brochures now available for 2017, 2018 and 2019 Late availability offers for 2017 All-inclusive wedding packages

Large selection of seafood and entrées available.

Lunch

Monday-Saturday 12noon-2.30pm 2 courses £12.95 3 courses £15.95

Call now to book your viewing 15th January, 11.30am - 3.30pm - NORTON HOUSE HOTEL Sunday 26th March - MOTHER’S DAY WEDDING OPEN Treat one of the mostDAY important people in your life to a special

Come and visit our refurbished wedding venue with lots of wedding suppliers onsite to offer youlunch what you need for a perfect 3-course with a present forwedding. all the mothers and live background

music.February Two sittings: noon and 2.30pm. Adults £25pp, 14th - ST12 VALENTINE’S DAY

Enjoy a 5-course drink on arrival and live background music on the most children undermeal, 12 £12.50. romantic day of the year. £60 per couple.

1st March - STApril DAVID’S DAY SUNDAY Sunday 16th - EASTER

4-course traditional Welsh menu; enjoy the taste of Wales on this festive day, served 3-course traditional lunch and dinner, £25pp.Sunday lunch. Easter eggs for all the children and

live background music. Two DAY sittings: 12noon and 2.30pm. 26th March -MOTHER’S

Treat one£19pp, of the most important people your life to a special 3-course lunch with Adults children under 12 in £11.50. a present for all the mothers and live background music. Two sittings: 12noon and 2.30pm. Adults £25pp, children under 12 £12.50.

Saturday 6th May - NORTON HOUSE HOTEL CHARITY NIGHT

Sunday 16th April - EASTER SUNDAY

Sunday lunches Sunday 12noon-2.30pm 2 courses £14.95 3 courses £16.95

Early Bird

Monday-Sunday 5pm-7pm 2 courses £14.95 3 courses £17.95

À la carte

Raising traditional money for this year’s Cancerand Research UK. 3-course Sunday lunch. nominated Easter eggs forcharity, all the children live background music. Twomeal, sittings:live 12noon and 2.30pm. Adults £19pp, children underOnly 12 £11.50. 4-course entertainment, DJ, raffle and auction. £35pp.

Monday-Sunday 12pm-2.30pm and 5pm-9pm

Saturday 6th May - NORTON HOUSE HOTEL CHARITY NIGHT

Afternoon teas

Raising money for June this year’s nominated charity, Sunday 18th - FATHER’S DAY Cancer Research UK. 4-course meal, live entertainment, DJ, raffle and auction. Only £35pp.

No washing up for fathers on this day! 3-course traditional

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Sunday lunch, gifts foron allthis theday! fathers andtraditional live background music. No washing up for fathers 3-course Sunday lunch, gifts for all the fathers and live background music. Two sittings: 12noon and 2.30pm. £19pp, Two sittings: 12noon and 2.30pm. Adults £19pp, children underAdults 12 £11.50. children under 12 £11.50.

Thursday Thursday 17th 17thNovember November- -BEAUJOLAIS BEAUJOLAISDAY DAY

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Available daily, advanced bookings required.

Our Garden Room is available for all events and functions - ideal for all family, celebrations and weddings.

01792 404 891 www.nortonhousehotel.co.uk /Nortonhousemumbles @nortonhousemumb

23/02/2017 19:52:29

House & home

THROUGH THE KEYHOLE (page 110) GREAT BATHROOMS (page 115) LESLEY TAYLOR (page 121) MOOD OF THE MOMENT (page 133)

LBS Home & Garden, 22 Rhosmaen Street, Llandeilo, SA19 6NL • 01558 823900 LBS Neath, Neath Abbey Road, Neath SA10 7BR • 01639 646511 LBS Port Talbot, Unit 5, Cramic Way, Port Talbot SA13 1RU • 01639 884433

HouseAndHome_SLMAR17.indd 1

24/02/2017 11:45

Pictures: Rachel White

HOUSE & HOME

WHERE: Cherry Tree Lodge, Overland Road, Langland HOW MUCH: Â£850,000. Freehold AGENTS: PA Black, 49 Mansel Street, Swansea, SA1 5SW 01792 641481 swansea@peteralan.co.uk www.peteralan.co.uk

110 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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THROUGH THE KEYHOLE

‘WE TOOK THE TIME TO GET IT RIGHT’ A disaster just months after you move into your new home isn’t the stuff of dreams. But as PETER SLEE has been finding out, there is a way of turning a negative into a positive.

EW people are lucky enough to find the house of their dreams at the first go. But when Greg and Louise James walked up the impressive driveway of what was to become their new home in Swansea’s Langland area for the first time, they very much liked what they saw. It was in its own grounds, had an impressive facade and size wise, well, it delivered. Inside though, things weren’t quite what they were after.

Cherry Tree Lodge dated back to 2000 and was of its time. Even so, the James’ could see the potential it offered and decided to put in an offer on the property. Then, just a year or so later, disaster struck. A pipe sprung a leak and the house was devastated by flood waters. There was little that escaped. “On the plus side,” says company director Greg, “ it offered us the opportunity to refresh the whole house. “We wanted to do it at some time anyway, just maybe not right then!”

www.swansealife.co.uk | 111

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HOUSE & HOME

So the builders moved in and the James’ moved out. Six months later and with just one week to go before Louise was due to give birth, they moved back in again. The result? A four-bedroomed house that now really does work for them as a brilliant family home. Design ideas have been fine tuned to deliver in every respect. The front door opens onto an impressive entrance hall leading onto the lounge, dining room, sitting room, a bespoke fitted breakfast kitchen, utility room and guest WC. Up the stairs and you walk onto a spacious landing, master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe, three further bedrooms, Jack & Jill style shower room and a family bathroom.

Outside there are lawns to the front, side and rear and a huge double garage offering bags of future potential. The couple took their time to get it right, but it has worked out beautifully. “It’s style now is very modern and clean,” adds Greg. “ It is also easy manageable which makes it a pleasure to live in.” Style wise, interior designers from Laura Ashley have worked their magic creating a light, bright and airy feel to it all with its modern, yet classic look. Its positioning within five minutes either way of Mumbles and Rotherslade Beach is also a big plus point. Four years on however, and the James’ now have the renovation

112 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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ADD SOME

WOW! A pop of colour really can make a difference to any room scheme...

SIMPLE

Dining chair, £249, DFS, Swansea

TOPSY

Yellow Elephant Pattern Cushion, £12, Argos, Parc Morfa,

SMART

Wooden Side Table with Blue Drawer, £49.99, Homesense, Parc Ffore4stfach

SAY NO TO NEUTRAL

Durable 2.5L Lemon Burst paint, £12, Wilko, Swansea

COLOUT HIT bug deeply rooted within meaning they are heading off to pastures new. They have seen a big six bedroomed property in Swansea West in need of renovation and have decided to go for it. “My family - though not me - has got a building background which will help.,” adds Greg “Even so, it is going to be quite a job. “Some people might question us we have got the house just as we want it. It is what we always wanted. Even better perhaps for whoever buys it, it has so much potential still to offer up, we believe. “But there are exciting times ahead which we are looking forward to.”

Flower Set of 4 Measuring Spoons, £16, Laura Ashley, Swansea

BRIGHT

Addison Chair in Chesterfield Grapefruit, £1,075, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park www.swansealife.co.uk | 113

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24/02/2017 10:11

01600 717 040

black

www.pablack.co.uk

Prestige homes from Peter Alan Ltd

Culfor Road, Swansea

Brombill Barns, Port Talbot

• Unique characteristic farm house • Five Bedrooms, two bathrooms • 12 Acres of Land • Heated Outdoor Swimming Pool • Separate Barn Conversion • EPC E

• Immaculate Barn Conversion • Four Bedrooms • Bespoke Kitchen • Two Reception Rooms • Utility with Shower • Ample Off Road Parking • Select Development

For Sale with PA Black Gorseinon 01792 894422

£625,000

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£369,000

Betws, Ammanford

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£600,000

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Delivering exceptional service for exceptional homes

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For Sale with PA Black Gorseinon 01792 894422

23/02/2017 19:52:54

HOUSE & HOME

13 BIG ideas for small bathrooms peter.slee@swwmedia.co.uk

@PeterSlee56

All accessories from a selection at Sainsburyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Swansea www.swansealife.co.uk | 115

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24/02/2017 08:25

HOUSE & HOME

LIGHT IT UP

Chic Pimlico Bathroom pull cord Wall Light with Glass Shade, £39.95. www.thefarthing.co.uk

NEW LOOK

SLEEK

Bathroom paint, 2.5L Bali, £12, Wilko, Morriston and Swansea

Crometta Shower starts at £271.67, www.taylorsetc.co.uk

RELAXING

La Maison de Senteurs Belle Provence Hand Wash, £5. M&S, Parc Fforestfach

COSY

Trussardi - Fregio Shawl Bathrobe, Cuoio, £177, www.amara.com

INDULGENT DESIGN

Cooke & Lewis Antonio Freestanding Acrylic Bath, from a range at B&Q, Parc Morfa

TRADITIONAL TIDY UP

Striped laundry bag, £7, Tiger Stores, Swansea

Oyster Catcher Light Pull, £4, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

CLEVER

This magnifying sensor mirror lights up automatically as you approach, £149, John Lewis, Cardiff 116 | www.swansealife.co.uk

DPS Bathrooms_SLMAR17.indd 2

24/02/2017 08:25

01600 717 040

black

www.pablack.co.uk

Prestige homes from Peter Alan Ltd

Sketty Park Road, SWANSEA Overland Road, Swansea • Impressive detached family home • Six double bedrooms & study • Four reception rooms, bespoke kitchen/breakfast room • Gated entrance, ample parking, double & triple garage • Four bath/shower rooms • Substantial leisure annexe with heated pool and jacuzzi

• Detached Four Bedroom Three Reception Room • Bespoke Fitted Kitchen, Guest WC and Utility Room, Underfloor Heating • Jack& Jill Style Shower Room, Family Bathroom • Double Garage With Rooms above, Gardens & Private Drive • EPC E

For Sale with PA Black Swansea 01792 641481

£1,000,000

Gower Road, Swansea

Eaton Crescent, Swansea

Gower Road, Swansea

• Oustanding detached family home with A High quality finish throughout • Located at the entrance of the The Gower Peninsula with Award winning beaches nearby • Four double bedrooms • Swimming pool and spacious out building • EPC F

• Five Bedrooms • Three Reception Rooms • Two bathrooms • Substantial Accommodation • Original Features

• Spacious Six Bedroom detached family home • Superb sea views from upper levels • Surrounded with mature trees providing privacy • Garage and driveway • EPC F

For Sale with PA Black Swansea 01792 641481

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£335,000

Delivering exceptional service for exceptional homes

Offers Over £830,000

£365,000

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Cardiff Monmouth Penarth Porthcawl Newport

£580,000

For Sale with PA Black Swansea 01792 641481

23/02/2017 19:53:14

Regionally 18 offices throughout the region Nationally 225 offices across Great Britain

THE ORCHARD BARN MURTON

MYRTLE HILL FARM CARMARTHENSHIRE

A beautiful stone barn conversion in desirable Murton. The barn has a wealth of character twinned with a superb amount of private gardens. Briefly comprising a lounge, kitchen/diner, family bathroom, master bedroom with en-suite and 3 double beds. Ample parking. EPC F

With panoramic country views his modernised farmhouse offers 4 beds, 3 receptions, large kitchen, family bath, separate wet room & 2 en-suite shower rooms. Plus 2 barn conversions provide a letting income. Traditional barns/outbuildings, paddocks & farmland. EPC E

Asking Price £795,000

Asking Price £635,000

New To Market

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GREENACRE SOUTHGATE

A wonderful farmhouse with spectacular views offers you open plan kitchen/diner, lounge/cinema, games room, utility, 3 beds, family bathroom and a vast barn. There is an additional 1 bed cottage with holiday let potential. Set in 2 acres. EPC D & F.

Perfectly located in Southgate this well loved detached family home presents 4 receptions, family bathroom and 4 beds incl a substantial master bedroom with en-suite. Ample parking & beautiful south facing garden. EPC D

Asking Price £564,995

Asking Price £750,000

Y PLAS MUMBLES

GLYNDEFAID COTTAGES GLAIS

With fabulous views this detached home offers large, immaculate living spaces. Presenting 4 beds, 3 receptions and generous kitchen/breakfast room. With ample parking. Set in a uniquely tranquil spot close to the village od Mumbles. EPC D. PART EX CONSIDERED

Set in idyllic country grounds consisting of 2 separate dwellings. Main house offers 4 beds & very spacious living accommodation. 'The Stables' has an office and annexe. Ample parking, 4 acres & planning for potential for a triple garage. EPC E & E.

OIRO £795,000

Asking Price £590,000

Fine & Country Swansea 77 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BN Tel: +44 (0)1792 367301 | Email: swansea@fineandcountry.com

2017MarAdsPlan.indd 118

23/02/2017 19:53:29

SOLD STC

BRY DEL COURT NEWTON

HAREPITTS RHOSSILI

Occupying a sizeable plot with generous gardens. This split level four bedroomed family home is generous and versatile and could easily accommodate an extended family. There is ample parking and integral double garage. Within in excellent school catchments. EPC - C

Set in an incredibly unique and spectacular location, overlooking the entireity of Rhossili Bay. You will be in complete awe of the views from the property. Briefly comprising 2 receptions, kitchen, WC, 4 bedrooms (1 with ensuite) 2 family bathrooms and a loft room. EPC F

Offers Over £700,000

£800,000

SOLD

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GREEN GATES MUMBLES Beautiful home with spectacular sea views & access onto The Mumbles Promenade. Top of the range kitchen, luxury bathrooms & under-floor heating. Double ensuite beds & dressing room. Balconies are situated to enjoy the views. Private gardens, gated entrance. EPC D

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£1,250,000

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BRYNVIEW CLOSE REYNOLDSTON

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Impressive country views, this family home has beautiful front & rear gardens. Briefly comprising lounge, diner, sun lounge, kitchen/breakfast room, study, utility, cloaks & wine store. First floor; 4 beds, 2 bathrooms with enclosed balcony from the master. EPC C

This Grade II listed cottage offers original features with exposed stone walls, beams and inglenook fireplace. Presenting 3 beds, 2 receptions, large garden and ample parking. This is a perfect project set in a wonderful Gower coastal village of Oxwich. EPC exempt.

£670,000

Asking Price £330,000

Fine & Country Swansea 77 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BN Tel: +44 (0)1792 367301 | Email: swansea@fineandcountry.com

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23/02/2017 19:53:56

HOUSE & HOME

L E S L E Y

TA Y LO R

CHANGE IS COMING Interior designer Lesley Taylor on how make the most of the home’s most underused space

“

IT’S THE FIRST ROOM

GUESTS SEE WHEN THEY ENTER OUR HOME BUT QUITE OFTEN THE LAST

WE THINK ABOUT

x2 rl- Lesley Taylor_MASTER.indd 1

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HOUSE & HOME

It’s the first room guests see when they enter our home, but quite often the last we think about when it comes to interior design. But transforming your humble hallway into a space that will wow visitors and become a place to linger – instead of simply passing through – can be done. Struggling for inspiration? Never fear; these pointers will have your entrance hall in magazine-worthy condition in no time. Firstly, imagine your entrance hall as the first scene in a film showcasing your entire property, so it needs to set the tone of what is to come. Whether you want a clutter-free passageway, an additional living space or something in between, don’t be afraid to echo the colours, textures and styles used around the rest of your home. The hallway experiences more footfall than any other room so your pick of flooring is paramount. Carpet is a great option. It’s relatively cheap and a popular choice in living areas and bedrooms – giving your entire house something of a curated, uniformed look. But be warned, it takes just one nasty stain to spoil it. That’s why tiles are often used in hallways. This hardwearing, easyto-clean option is perfect for an area as busy as a hallway. And don’t think your choice has to be limited to the traditional black-and-white chequerboard pattern either. These days the market is flooded with an abundance of tile ranges, with everything from subtle period patterns to bold, contemporary collections that really pack a punch. Most hallways lack any distinctive features. So create one. A wall of mirrors is a great way to make narrow hallways appear bigger, and on a practical note, are perfectly placed for a final check of your appearance before leaving the house. And they are pretty simple to throw together too. Invest in around five mirrors of different shapes and sizes (more if your hallway is large enough to take it) and hang in an ad hoc manner across one wall. If mirrors don’t work for you, create a focal point with oversized artwork or a fabuloulsly over-the-top ornament. Like all rooms in the home, the hallway does serve a practical purpose and can sometimes become a dumping ground for bags, coats, shoes and all manner of accessories. For me, there are two paths homeowners can go down when it comes to clutter: hide it or embrace it. Hiding it is simple. Benches with folding seats revealing additional storage spaces are popular, as are shoe drawers that can be both stylish and discreet. After all, who wants to be greeted by mud-caked wellies or scuffed school shoes? That-being-said, there is an emerging trend that is seeing some homeowners embrace the clutter and make a feature out of it. Using a neutral shade on the walls, an off-white or light grey for example, create a busy hallway with mismatched furniture, clashing artwork and lots and lots of coat hooks. These can be used to hang almost anything from school bags and umbrellas to hats and photographs. A classic coat stand will finish the look. Lesley Taylor is the author of 10 interior design books and has appeared on a range of network TV shows, including This Morning, giving inspirational advice on home styling. She lives in Swansea where she is the Founder and Design Director of luxury interiors lifestyle store Taylors Etc.

1. Tiles may be a practical choice but that doesn’t mean they cannot be stylish. Pictured is the London Funk Wave range from The Baked Tile Company, www. bakedtiles.co.uk 2. Embellish even the smallest of spaces with coat hooks to create a unique homely feel to your entrance hall 3. Mirrors are a great way to make a small space seem larger. Use a distinctive mirror on its own or pick a selection in varying shapes and sizes to create a feature wall 4. Distinctive features are often lacking in a hallway so create your own. These accessories are all available from the Taylors Etc showroom 5. This clutter free hallway sets the tone for the rest of the property. Tiles are from the London Trafalgar Taupe range from The Baked Tile Company, www.bakedtiles. co.uk

Interior Designer and member of the BIID, Lesley Taylor is the Design Director of Taylor’s Etc based in Cardiff. 02920 358 400 www.taylors etc.co.uk

122 | www.swansealife.co.uk

x2 rl- Lesley Taylor_MASTER.indd 2

24/02/2017 10:03

Spring STYLE

AT LEEKES

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Spring STYLE

Pretty Pastels.. Spring brings fresh new looks for your home, and is the ideal time to invigorate your interior with ideas from our leading brands and the latest trends from our exclusive collections. For a relaxed and ambient interior choose colour combinations in soft and muted pastel shades to help update your look and create a fresh living space. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to add impact with a room makeover or introduce a hint of colour with accessories, discover the perfect addition to transform your room.

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Visit your nearest store for interior inspiration at: Leekes Cross Hands Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0333 222 4120 | Online: leekes.co.uk

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Spring STYLE

Country Retreat.. Co-ordinate colours, patterns and textures in heritage tones of sage green, brown and cream for a refined finish. While this trend is timeless, the right statement pieces can give this look a contemporary twist. Layering tones and textures will create a rustic edge in your home, perfect for a real cosy living or dining room.

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Watercolour palette.. Take inspiration from the outdoors and transform your indoor space, creating a vibrant scene with a mixed palette of spring blooms in hues of pinks, purples, blues and greens. Discover stylish new additions for your home, from sumptuous sofas to beautiful bedding, incorporating distinctive features such as a bold patterned wallpaper or add a splash of colour with accessories to refresh your look.

Visit your nearest store for interior inspiration at: Leekes Cross Hands Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0333 222 4120 | Online: leekes.co.uk

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HOUSE & HOME

‘WE CAN’T WAIT TO MAKE HAPPY MEMORIES IN OUR NEW HOME’ 128 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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Lawyer Hugh Hitchcock and his partner Kelly Barnett were after the perfect work-life balance...and struck gold in Swansea, as PETER SLEE has been finding out N the hunt for their first home together, Hugh Hitchcock, and his partner Kelly Barnett, immediately had their hearts set on this elegant, yet modern Swansea home nestled in one of the city’s most sought after postcodes. The stunning family property, a brand-new build by luxury Welsh house builder, Waterstone Homes, in the leafy suburb of Derwen Fawr, is surrounded by beautiful woodlands and is just a short walk from the seafront – perfect for a couple who enjoy countryside and coastal walks.

Aptly named the Jane Austen by the developer, after the famous author, the home draws inspiration from the interiors found in her regency novels, combining traditional elegance with a contemporary twist. The four-bedroom property, which blends period features with modern comforts, sits in a prime location within Swansea. The city centre is just a 10-minute drive away, while the suburbs of Killay, Sketty and Uplands, with their abundance of restaurants, bars and cafés, are nearby for everyday shopping and dining needs. The picturesque and cosmopolitan Mumbles, a particular favourite for a spot of lunch, is also within a short drive. For Hugh and Kelly, it offers the perfect lifestyle and the couple were thrilled to be lucky enough to secure their dream home. Completed last month, it is the final addition to the luxury Howell’s Reach housing development – a development so popular that it did not even have a show home due to the houses selling so fast. Hugh says: “The house is exactly what we wanted in every respect from its appearance and modern facilities to its location and beautiful surroundings. It’s in the perfect spot with a range of local amenities and good transport links nearby. “At the same time, the development feels really peaceful. It’s only a small site, just 13 houses, and is surrounded by acres of landscaped gardens and trees, creating a relaxing and serene countryside atmosphere.” Originally from Carmarthen, Hugh enjoyed an eight-year stint at a London law firm, acting for an array of celebrity clients including Elton John and Sting before returning to South Wales in 1995, longing for the quality of life the region offered.

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HOUSE & HOME

After 21 years living and working in Swansea, where he has built up a successful commercial litigation practice and strong reputation, Hugh is now a Partner at leading Cardiff and London based law firm, Acuity Legal. His new house move coincides with exciting expansion plans for the firm, which has just opened a new office in Swansea, following a strong year of business growth. With a number of high profile and prestigious legal awards under its belt, Acuity is making waves across the UK legal scene and the latest addition marks an important step for Hugh, allowing him to bring the company’s sector leading

expertise to his adopted hometown of Swansea and the surrounding region. For Hugh, who’s work frequently takes him away to London, the new home will provide him with the perfect retreat for his time off, while also being conveniently located just half an hour walk from the new Swansea office he will run. With their hearts set on a new build, the couple had decided on a Waterstone home after visiting a number of the company’s previous developments and being blown away by their quality and reputation. Hugh adds: “We have both always preferred modern homes as they tend to tick an awful lot of boxes without having

to compromise – they’re usually bright, quiet and well insulated. Buying a new build has also enabled us to have a real input in its construction and customise it exactly how we want.” Entering through the front porch, guests are welcomed by a light and airy hallway leading into a large family lounge and study. Focused around a huge wood burning fire, the living room offers the perfect mix of classic and contemporary. Towards the rear of the property is the heart of the home – a spacious kitchendiner with large bi-fold doors opening directly onto the garden and flooding the room with natural light.

130 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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Hugh says “Life at the property revolves around the kitchen. It’s large, modern and bright, with a quality of finish. It will be the sociable hub of the home, and we’re excited to have friends and family over for food.” On the first floor is a generous master bedroom with garden views and en-suite shower room. Pale tones of grey and cream blend beautifully to create a luxury, high-end interior design, enhanced by quality furniture in warm tones and classic shapes. Next along are two double bedrooms, featuring a Jack-and-Jill ensuite shower room, while a further double bedroom and family bathroom also grace this floor.

Outside, the garden is large and secure, featuring a fenced lawn and patio area perfect for BBQs and summer parties. The home also benefits from a double driveway and double garage offering ample parking and designed to seamlessly complement the house itself. With the couple having only moved into their new home this month, it is yet to be fully furnished but they are excited to see the place come together. Kelly adds “It’s such a wonderful new home and we can’t wait to make many happy memories here. It offers us plenty of space, ideal as we have four children between us, and every single room is bright and airy with a modern feel.”

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HOUSE & HOME

COVER UP

Novo weave throw, £60, House of Fraser, Cardiff

COSY TOES

CLASSY

UGG® - Women’s Scuffette Slippers, £70, Amara

Pendant Light, £320, Debenhams, Swansea

CALMING

Potted faux flowers, £16.99, HomeSense, Parc Fforestfach

MOOD OF THE MOMENT Staying in

“ With the chill of winter still in the air, get the fire on, cosy up with a blanket and embrace all your favourite home comforts” peter.slee@swwmedia.co.uk

COVER UP

Novo weave throw, £60, House of Fraser, Cardiff

HOP TO IT

SEASONAL SHADES

Ceramic Hare, £15, Dunelm, Swansea

Leaf picture, £15, Next, Parc Morfa

@PeterSlee56

SOFTLY DOES IT

Hare Doorstop, £15, Laura Ashley, Swansea

FIRESIDE SEAT

Plain high wing chair, £498, DFS, Llansamlet

SIMPLE

GLOW

Mercury Tealight Holder, £2.50, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

George Home Floral Hurricane Vase, £6, George at Home, Swansea www.swansealife.co.uk | 133

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24/02/2017 09:59

VICTORIA WADE’S GARDEN Join Victoria Wade, an RHS Gold winning garden designer from Killay, with her seasonal growing tips.... www.victoriawade.co.uk

@WadeLandscapes

Edible flowers... From cornflowers to dahlias and pansies to nasturtiums, there are a huge number of edible flowers you can easily grow in your own garden. Perfect to decorate cakes, or to brighten up a summer salad, growing edible flowers is a fun way to add some creativity to your cooking! A surprising amount of flowers are edible, and they have a huge variety of flavours, colours and textures. Flowers can feature as part of a main dish- such as stuffed courgette flowers, but are more commonly used in the UK as a garnish and are becoming a very popular way to decorate a wedding cake. It is very important to know that not all flowers are edible and some can be very harmful if consumed so you need to know exactly what you are eating. Flowers are not easy to wash, and so any that have been sprayed with any sort of pesticide or herbicide are toxic, and should

not be used anywhere near food. Don’t eat or decorate a cake with flowers from a florist or supermarket unless you are certain they have not been sprayed and that you are confident that the species are definitely safe to eat. It is quite scary how many cakes I have seen recently at friend’s weddings and in magazines that have been decorated with poisonous flowers- some even poked directly into the cakes!! There are a number of small family farms in the UK that specialise in edible flowers that sell their flowers online: Greens of Devon www. greensofdevon.com and Maddocks Farm www. maddocksfarm organics.co.uk both have really good informative websites. So many edible species are really easy to grow from seed in your own garden. Or you can buy seed

x1 Victoria Wade_SLMAR17.indd 1

from The Edible Flower Shop www. theedibleflowershop.co.uk or Sarah Raven www.sarahraven.com Impress your friends with a pretty cake covered in calendula petals, cornflowers and pansies, freeze borage flowers in ice cubes for a pretty garnish to a cocktail, or spice up a summer salad with nasturtium and chive flowers. When growing, make sure you don’t spray the flowers with any chemicals and pick only the perfect blooms. Give the flowers a shake before adding them to your dishes to check there are no bugs hiding inside! Edible flowers are best used as fresh as possible- so decorate your cakes at the very last minute so they stay looking at their best. Flowers can also be crystallised (using egg whites and sugar) which helps them last longer; I find this works really well with primrose flowers. Other edible favourites, which are perfect in larger arrangements for wedding cakes include dahlias, roses and sunflowers.

24/02/2017 11:28

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HOUSE & HOME

MARCH MAGIC With JOSEPH ATKIN, Head Gardener at Aberglasney Gardens in Carmarthenshire.

Hydrangea aspera

For a gardener there’s nothing quite like the joy of seeing spring shoots bursting through the soil and the first flowers beginning to bloom. With the right plants, March as opposed to April, is the month when this happens; and yes the beginning of the month is usually reminiscent of winter but by the end of the month it’s usually much warmer. At Aberglasney we have planted a great deal of different plants that help ensures an early and vibrant start to the season.

Epimedium pinnatum subsp. colchicum ‘South Lodge’

Narcissus cyclamineus ‘Lemon Silk’

‘Barrenwort’ This group of plants is becoming a great deal more popular and Epimedium pinnatum subsp. colchicum in particular is an excellent garden plant. Some Epimedium are tricky to grow and very slow but this one is easy, we can grow it almost anywhere in the Gardena. The foliage is a lovely glossy evergreen colour and it is vigorous enough to cover the ground to knee height but certainly not invasive. The flowers appear in March just above the foliage, a mass of small yellow star shaped blooms. This is a plant best described as choice evergreen ground cover. One trick we have learnt is to use shears to remove all the foliage in January just before the flower buds appear, this really shows them off but does not harm the plant. • Height = 50cm • Spread = 30cm per year when established • Position/Aspect = Any • Soil = Any except waterlogged • Pest and diseases = Vine weevil in pots • Style = Ground cover, woodland, exotic, dry shade solution, great under small trees

Prunus mume

Of the hundreds of different Narcissus that we grow this is one of the most elegant. It is a wonderful soft yellow colour, has a light fragrance and is slightly smaller than the usual Narcissus. The cyclamineus group have swept back sepals (petals at the back) and very slender flowers. However for all its subtlety and daintiness it still manages to make quite a statement. At Aberglasney it is a real favourite with visitors. ‘Lemon Silk’ is particularly good for a small garden or a tight spot where early colour is required. What is also nice is that it dies down after flowering and tatty leaves are much less of a problem. We find it looks great under small trees such as Magnolia stellate. • Height = 25cm • Spread = 10cm • Position/Aspect = Sun partial shade • Soil = Any good free draining fertile • Pest and diseases = No real problems with good quality bulbs • Style = Cottage garden, mixed border, naturalised in grass underplanting shrubs

‘Beni-Chidori’

This flowering Cherry is one of the very earliest. At Aberglasney ours is almost always out during the first week in February and the whole tree is covered in tiny pink flowers. Like many flowering Cherries it makes a small tree quickly with a rounded head; it also has quite good autumn colour. What’s extra special about this tree is the flowers last well into early March. They also look great on a frosty morning and won’t be damaged by cold or wet weather. We grow ours in a shrub border where it catches the evening sun and really brightens a dark spot. This tree is also a great choice for a specimen on a lawn especially if you want early colour. • Height = 3-4m • Spread = 3-4m • Position/Aspect = Any except deep shade • Soil = Any except waterlogged • Pest and diseases = No real problems • Style = Specimen, Asiatic garden, shrub border or street tree

138 | www.swansealife.co.uk

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24/02/2017 10:04

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HOUSE & HOME

A HOME OF HER OWN She’s transformed what was a rundown wreck into the house of her dreams. Now Swansea lecturer Rebecca Perry’s exploits are about to be screened in a new Channel 5 TV property show. PETER SLEE has been to meet her..... O, how much would you pay to buy a house and then turn it into your dream first home? £150,000 maybe, £250,000 or even double that for some possibly. Well then, you obviously haven’t met Rebecca Perry. Her spend? Well, rather closer to the £56,000 mark all in. And for that she not only bought the house but did it up top to bottom as well.Yes, really! The enterprising university lecturer, 27, who mentors students and teaches in the business school at University of Wales Trinity St David in Swansea, was also filmed along with her partner John Little for a new Channel 5 March 2017 TV series that focuses on several people across the UK as they got immersed into property renovation on a budget. Of course, doing things on such a tight budget can also come with its own complications: Rebecca’s new house — a pretty terraced farm workers’ cottage in Bryn in Neath Port Talbot — was in a very sorry state when she bought it. But the couple quickly got to work stripping it back down to its bare shell to start the job of building it back up again. A year later, and it was finished. And at the end of it all, they have a dream home and one now valued at around the £95,000 mark

giving them a nice slab of equity into the bargain. “Yes it was hard work,” she admits. “And yes, the fact my dad is a builder and we were able to use his skills and expertise whenever we had a problem helped enormously too. Being able to send him a video link of something or another and then getting an answer on what we needed to do to resolve it was really beneficial and we were so grateful. “But even so, it wasn’t without its problems.” What she and soon-to-be husband John have ended up though with is a beautiful character cottage that manages to tick all their boxes. It feels very cosy and very comfortable. Go back less than a couple of years though and it was a very different picture. She set her heart on buying the cottage after viewing a string of possible restoration projects throughout 2015. She fell in love not only with its pretty looks and huge potential, but also with its stunning location: it sits on a hillside with mountain views to the front and views over a dry stone wall to fields and hills from the rear. “I found it in October on Rightmove. A cottage on a mountain not far from the beach is everything I want at this time in my life, and I couldn’t believe the price. I came to see it four times with my dad, and P142

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HOUSE & HOME

we chatted about what we could do with it and made sure there was nothing wrong structurally. I made the decision to go for it within about two weeks of seeing the house.” The cottage was up for auction with a guide price of just £30,000. Rebecca’s budget was a little over over £37,000 (with an extra £10,000 earmarked for renovations) so she knew the auction would be tense. “It took place in Cardiff and I went there with my mum and my dad’s partner. The auction started at £28,000. There were three of us bidding for it but I stayed strong, and one of the bidders dropped out at £34,000. “After that It was just me and one other person. We got to £36,000 and I could tell he was reaching his limit. He came in with an extra £500, then I outbid him at £37,000. I cried in front of everybody like a child when I won — I really, really wanted this house — I knew it was perfect and its postcode happens to be my initials!” When she finally bagged it and took possession of the house it was in a terrible decorative state. Windows were broken, and there was barely any kitchen — just a sink. The bathroom showed signs of a fire and the walls of the house were covered in wood veneer and decades worth of wallpaper. “We counted 20 layers in one place, and on the bottom layer we found sheets of newspaper from the 1950s,”she says. Rebecca was very hands-on with the renovation, stripping most of the interior herself. In addition to the help she got from her partner and her dad, she also credits her mother with providing inspiration and encouragement: she has built four houses over the years and used to own an estate agency, and this helped Rebecca feel confident about undertaking such an ambitious project. “It’s amazing,” says Rebecca now. “And yes it has been a lot of hard work for everyone. But the transformation is incredible.” A budget of £850 or so a month helped the couple slowly piece the house together bit by bit. They were also helped when John decided to up sticks from his home in Gloucestershire to Bryn so they could share the load. He now works for Jaguar Land Rover in Swansea. “I grew up around home renovators so I have a lot of DIY experience and I’m very stubborn — I will just get stuck in,” she adds. “I’ve got four brothers so I think that has made me hardy, and I don’t want to have to pay somebody to come and do something I could do myself. As soon as I got the house I got started on the ripping out. John had two days off work to help me. We took out walls upstairs, all the ceilings, and, with a bit of help, the beams in the bathroom.” As the project progressed she also got used to being filmed while she worked. The TV series - Climbing the Property Ladder - captured all the key moments of the cottage’s evolution into Rebecca’s new home. She is hoping that the series will provide her with a lasting record of the renovation of Buttercup Cottage. “I’m originally from Gloucestershire so I have family there, and also in Wales and Nottingham. “They can’t all come to see the house — for instance, I wouldn’t expect my grandparents to travel here when I can’t even offer them a cup of tea, so it will be nice for them to watch the progress on TV.” With the hard work now over, Rebecca and John are starting to think they might just have a go at another project. “The house is all we ever hoped for,” she adds. “ And we love living here. It is in a great location and you really do feel as though you are in the countryside. “We’ve made our money and secured our future, why would you not want to do that? “But yes, we are looking at doing it all over again!”

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Great escapes

SKI HEAVEN (page 160) WEEKEND GETAWAY (page 161) THE GROVE (page 162)

251 Oxford Street, Swansea, SA1 3BL Tel: 0844 800 3855

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GREAT ESCAPES

THE UPS & DOWNS OF SKI HEAVEN A holiday on the slopes needn’t mean returning to the same chalet, or the same resort, night after night – powder hounds in search of added thrills can try a new kind of experience instead. Swansea Life’s JACK PITTS packed his salopettes and headed off to France... T’S late at night but I can’t sleep. I’m looking across a snow-filled valley dotted with wooden chalets, their roofs lined with marzipan. In the distance great mountains arch across the sky and below, moonlight steals over sleeping ski-lifts. There’s not a breath of wind and everything is perfectly still. Eating a six course meal can often cause insomnia, but right now, I couldn’t be happier. Les Saisies is a mountain village that outgrew itself. Tucked away in a fold of mountains under western Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc, the village has become a beacon for families looking for a catch-all resort. Somehow the village managed to escape the post-war rush to the slopes which condemned many of the bigger ski towns to communist-esque concrete apartment blocks. Instead, Les Saisies is a copse of wooden chalets, their long wooden roofs slanting downward till they almost touch the ground. Despite 192km of piste - with everything from gentle greens to highoctane blacks - Les Saisies still feels like a village, albeit a village thronged with brightly coloured skiers stomping around in solid boots. The balcony I was standing on - in -10C temperatures - was at a new the Residence Armallis, notable for its stunning views across the valley and a spa complex that includes a tube-like sauna that juts out 10 metres over the snow below. A good skiing holiday, for many, has less to with skiing, and much more to do with ambiance, high-altitude fresh air and a chance to indulge in ways only available in France. At the Cosy Délice we sat at tables carved from dried tree trunks and sampled cured meats, local wine and village made cheese. Despite the cold weather farmers still work the hills all year around,

painstakingly collecting milk and bringing it to a ‘cheese co-op’ in the centre of Les Saisies where it it is churned into any number of crumbling blue or smelly soft cheeses. Les Saisies is best described as a winter resort, rather than a ski resort. This can be seen in its keenness to take in a new sport - snoocing. The creator of this winter offering explained he invented it so he and his myriad friends and their myriad hobbies could do something together on the slopes. Picture sitting on a single ski that uses your bodyweight to carve serenely down the mountainside. The beauty of the snooc is that older people can ski because falling off hurts far from that low down. But the icing on the cake of the snooc is that at the bottom of the mountain it can be dismantled into two parts, which you can

use to cross-country ski back up to the top of the hill. After crash-landing several times it was time to warm up in the Hotel Calgary, named after the location of the owner’s gold medal winning Olympic triumph. It was here, braced with more local wine, that we buckled up for a six course dinner - an apparently normal outing for hotel guests. Sumptuous meat followed delicate fish, all infused with a richness only seen in France - does anyone really know why it’s not an obese country? But the pièce de résistance was the cheeseboard. The chief waiter wafted in with a dustbin lid-sized plate with so many cheeses standing up and lying down that it resembled a fromage village. Indulgence may cause insomnia, but it’s rarely not worth it!

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APRES-SKI FUN

For those unfamiliar with the term apres-ski, here’s a definition!Apres-ski refers to going out and having drinks after a day on the slopes. It’s almost always done wearing ski gear and often results in dancing ( in said ski gear) . In short, it’s one of the best reasons to visit Europe’s mountain. It’s fair to say here therefore that while Les Saisies is not famous for its skiing, and has been overshadowed by larger, more commercial resorts nearby, it still delivers particularly in this department. And after a day on the slopes in blissful sunshine, it is easy to see why. Because the place is blessed with a variety of pistes that means almost every lift has a fast and slow option, and there are ample watering holes along the way for weary travellers. In fact, there are some 151 slopes, including 31 green (read, easy) options for beginners. We stopped at a ski-stop called Les Marmottes to enjoy a tartiflette - a sort of French version of lasagne, with creamy potato topped with smelly cheese - before we tottered lethargically back out to the slopes.The lifts run across several hundred square miles of piste which means whatever the weather you’ll be able to find somewhere out of the wind, or in sunshine. For après-ski daredevils can strap themselves into a mountain rollercoaster, which rollicks around twists and turns as it plummets down the alpine slope. The more sedate can go up front with a piste basher as they course up and down the steep hills. Every day the team of 16 scour the mountain side, using their £300,000, 490 horsepower machines to physically plough snow up the hill that was unknowingly pushed down by hundreds of skiers during the day. Of course, après-ski isn’t après-ski without a few late-night stiffeners, and there are spots to choose from. But a word of warning: always check the alcohol content of the beer, otherwise you might only find out it’s as strong as a vintage wine when you’re walking (stumbling) back to your apartment. It was a rugged skier who woke in the morning. But with the snow still glittering under an alpine sun, it was time for biathlon, surely the strangest combination of sports I’ve come across. Crosscountry skiing and shooting may seem like natural bedfellows for Scandinavians but to me they seem as likely a pairing as horse riding and scuba diving. Still, the sport is a unique way to see the snow crusted countryside. Skiers zipping down hills have little time to appreciate their beautiful surroundings. But honestly, when the slope is taken from vertical to horizontal time slows down and you can get lost among crystallised trees and untouched snow drifts. Heaven! • Jack Pitts was a guest of the Les Saisies Tourist Board, which represents the whole alpine village. Seven-day trips start from £600 pp, including ski pass and rental. Flights run from most UK airports to Geneva or Lyon. Visit www.lessaisies.com .

WEEKEND GETAWAY Ashford Estate in Cong, County Mayo, Ireland STYLE & SUBSTANCE Once the country retreat of the Guinness family, this stunning 350-acre estate on the shores of Lough Corrib near Cong, has an ancient, turreted castle and a 19th century, eclectic-styled lodge. Recent extensive refurbishment means both are impeccably finished. Ashford Castle has crystal chandeliers and oak panelling; The Lodge is bright, modern and stylish. There are countless activities including falconry, boat cruises, horse riding, golf and salmon fishing.

SPA NOTES The Castle’s award-winning spa has a pool, gym, steam room, hammam and five treatment rooms. Products include Elemis, and Voya based on seaweed from Ireland’s Atlantic coast, but if you want a treatment make sure you book well in advance.

SLEEPING MATTERS The Lodge has 50 chic, contemporary bedrooms with all mod cons. The Castle’s 82 individually-designed rooms/suites have sumptuous furnishings, marble bathrooms and chandeliers. There’s free Wi-Fi throughout.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Ashford grows its own fruit and vegetables and showcases local meat and fish. The Castle’s lavish George V Dining Room offers French-influenced Irish cuisine by Chef Philippe Farineau. There’s a choice of 8/12-course tasting menus with optional wine pairing (8 courses and wine, 140 euros) and dishes such as John Dory with lovage sponge cake, local pork with apple foam and wine from the hotel’s South African vineyard. The Castle’s buffet breakfast includes Connemara smoked salmon, rock scones and soda bread. The Lodge’s award-winning Wilde Restaurant offers an alternative dining option. The menu is contemporary and imaginative, with mains such as pigeon with thyme jus, and venison with chocolate (2 courses, 55 euros).

NICE TOUCH The estate is pet-friendly and provides fluffy towels, food bowls and welcome treats for dogs and cats. There’s even a pet menu.

ABOUT THE AREA Cong was the setting of the 1950s film The Quiet Man starring John Wayne. Watch it in the Castle’s cinema, then wander round the village. Waterford, on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic way (www.wildatlanticway.com), has pretty Georgian streets and family-run shops. Enjoy local seafood chowder at the town’s Clew Bay Hotel (www. clewbayhotel.com), a 40-minute drive away.

GETTING THERE: Knock Airport is an hour’s drive from Ashford with flights to Luton and Gatwick. • Ashford Castle (www.ashfordcastle.com): double rooms from 315 euros per night including breakfast. The Lodge at Ashford Castle (www.thelodgeac.com): doubles from 150 euros per night including breakfast

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GREAT ESCAPES

With deserved cachet, this luxe country hotel and restaurant entices visitors with its classic style and innovative indulgence. PETER SLEE has been to see if it lives up to its reputation......

THE GROVE peter.slee@swwmedia.co.uk

@PeterSlee56

VEN Mrs Satnav seems excited about arriving at The Grove. Three times she tells us we’re about to reach our destination and insists it is on our

left. No it isn’t! In fact, it’s on our right, down a windy driveway, lit up warmly at night. But at last, half an hour so later than we really wanted, we finally arrive. We park the car and head inside through a vast wooden doorway. Immediatly, my temper soothes. There is one roaring log fire in the lounge, and another in the dining room, and everywhere there is the smell of sweetly scented woodsmoke. It is just what the doctor ordered after a long week in work.

Window seats, squishy sofas and modern prints and paintings of coastal Pembrokeshire set the tone of the whole property. Yes, it is going to be good couple of nights! There are 26 rooms in total. Expect

treats amongst the genius design touches such as the softest of sheets, posh toiletries, thick towels and house-made biscotti on your tea tray. The 14 rooms in the main house have ornate fireplaces, gilt mirrors, well-lit modern art and floral or William Morris-style wallpaper.

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We hop over though to one of its suites in an adjoining characterful building which comes with its very own mini garden. It’s a mix of mostly country charm with a little bit of modern luxe thrown in for good measure. It’s details that matter here and there are lots of

them. Our accommodation is made up of three rooms, a cosseting lounge with sofas, huge, flat screen TV and wood burning stove linked at one end to a humongous bathroom with a deep double-ended, cast-iron tub and then the bedroom on the other with its majestic super king four poster, with bedposts carved in cocoa wood. I could quite easily not move from this spot for the entire weekend. Really, it’s that good. I want to stay here for ever! But food beckons. The main manor house set in 26 acres of stunning grounds is a foursquare handsome Georgian building, but was remodelled at the turn of the century so has lots of homely Arts and Crafts touches. It is genuinely beautiful. Privately owned, it was snapped up in 2007 in a then rather sad and dilapidated state with owners Neil Kedward originally from Cwmrhydyceirw in Swansea and his wife Zoe who, by the way, also lay claim to The Beach House restaurant in Oxwich, working round the clock to reinvigorate it again for a wholly new life. And my, how well it all works now! We have dinner in the wood-panelled dining room. Allister Barsby – previously of the Michelin-starred Gidleigh Park in Devon – presides over the kitchen, and his dishes are imaginative and memorable using the best local produce as well as herbs and vegetables from the hotel’s own kitchen gardens. My wife goes for venison with pears and peppered celeriac, which is beautifully tender, and I order mackerel with marinated daikon and crab to start followed by parmesan and rosemary gnocchi with wild garlic, an egg yolk vinaigrette and a rosemary foam. To finish, we share a pistachio souffle with ice cream and chocolate sauce. It is all stellar. The award-winning wine list (admittedly perhaps not the cheapest I have ever seen) is wide ranging, with bottles from Syria and India as well as more obvious regions. Breakfast, served in less formal surroundings in a conservatory extension, includes interesting cooked options, such as Welsh rarebit with poached egg and bacon, and an omelette with smoked haddock and laverbread. Someone, somewhere has also taken the trouble to ensure all the tables face out over the gardens. It’s a little thing but a welcome one nonetheless. We leave just as a wedding party begin to arrive. How lucky are they! On our way home, we just have to stop off at Narbeth itself, a honeystone town just a couple of miles away from The Grove. Yes, it’s a bit of a Farrow-and-Ball stomping ground . Yes, it’s touristy and the art galleries, antique shops and interiors stores are all a bit twee. But it is also absolutely buzzing. And surely only the most curmudgeonly could fail to be

charmed by this pretty version of rural Pembrokeshire. I search for a negative about this place and about The Grove in particular: an overlooked detail perhaps, but there is nothing. The staff here are fantastic, especially our knowledgeable bar workers, the rooms divine, the food, well, superb. Even the location is perfect, a real country retreat just over an hour or so away from Swansea. Nothing grates here and it’s the very antithesis of corporate. Now if only that old SatNav of ours would start playing up again and we’d find ourselves back at the front door of this little West Wales gem! Really, a faultless hotel is every respect! The Grove, Molleston, Narberth, SA67 8BX Tel: +44 (0)1834 860 915 Email: info@thegrove-narberth.co.uk

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E D WA R D S H O L I DAY S W E L C O M E O N B O A R D ANDREW JEANS AS CRUISE PRODUCT MANAGER Award winning Edwards Holidays are pleased to welcome one of Wales’ top selling cruise agents, Andrew Jeans, to their head office in his new role as Cruise Product Manager. Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge & experience to Edwards, and since joining has expanded the Edwards supplier portfolio to include P&O Cruises, Cunard Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Cruise & Maritime as well as the existing partners Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises. Andrew commented, “We are very excited about working with the above suppliers, we feel this shows how serious we are about growth within the cruise holiday market and we also want to give our customers the widest range of cruise holidays possible” Andrew is currently producing a Cruise supplement which will highlight Edwards’ unique door to port service, offering customers the opportunity to start their holiday from their very own front door, when booking one of their fantastic cruise holidays. With cruise deals worldwide alongside preferred cruise partners, Edwards can also include airport hotels, airport parking and departure lounges to make sure you start and end your cruise holiday totally relaxed.

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every time you stay. We have a range of apartments to accommodate 1-4 guests. Each apartment offers a double bed or 2x double beds, high spec fully ﬁtted kitchen, 42” or 55” television, stylish ﬁtted shower room, living area and dressing area. Avoid expensive hotel restaurants and room service by preparing your own meals and drinks. We aim to make your stay as homely as possible. Access to the apartment for your stay couldn’t be less stressful. You will be provided with a code to a key box situated in our spacious reception area. This allows you the freedom to arrive when it’s convenient for you - no waiting around to check in.

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23/02/2017 19:58:00

Out

& about

RICHIE HAMMOND (page 168) WALK OF THE MONTH (page 172)

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OUT & ABOUT Pwlldu in spring

S N A P S H OTS O F

SWA N S E A B AY Tranquil beaches. Hidden corners. Unexpected views. Join photographer RICHARD HAMMOND as he explores some of Swansea and Gower’s coast and countryside. This month he visits Pwll Du...

HIS month we visit Pwll Du which is one of the loveliest bays in Gower. For me there’s nothing better than walking there just before dawn then settling down just above the beach to photograph the sun rising and all that’s happening at that time of day.

It is situated at the end of the beautiful Bishopston Valley between Brandy Cove and Hunts Bay. It’s one of South Gower’s most inaccessible beaches which undoubtedly make it even more

desirable to visit. It’s a long walk to the beach which unfortunately means it can be difficult to get to if you have a disability or need assistance Travelling by public transport means a 35-minute journey from Swansea on the number 14 bus. Walking would commence at Bishopston where, proceeding along Pwll Du Lane you would turn left at the thatched roof cottage, continue past South Gower RFC and pass the entrance to Knapp Farm on your right. After a while this road turns into a rough track which will lead you to the bay.

Caption

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Swing Rope

Early morning Pwlldu

Pwll Du translated into English means Black Pool whose name derives from the large pool which fills the area behind the pebble bank in times of heavy rain. This can be seen by following the river to where it disappears into the pebbles behind the beach. The pebbles were used by visiting ships as ballast during the 18 and 19th centuries when the bay was a thriving natural port exporting Limestone

Black Pool

“

FOR ME THERE’S

“

Alternatively, you could walk along the beautiful coastal path from Caswell or Southgate or follow the path through Bishopston Valley crossing the lovely river bridge.

NOTHING BETTER THAN

WALKING THERE JUST BEFORE

DAWN

Pwll-du bay at low tide

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OUT & ABOUT Pwll Du daybreak

Pwll Du above the bay

Time for wine...

There are several nice pubs in the area. But one which stands out for me simply for the quality of its food has to be the Valley Hotel in Bishopston. The Valley opened in 1827 when it was called The Cross Inn. In 1871 new landlord John Bevan renamed the pub “The Californian” following his return from the USA during the Gold Rush. By 1877 the original building was demolished and this present one built in its place and included the first American Bowling Alley in Wales. Today, the present Landlady of 18 years Val prides herself on the quality of the food with fish being the speciality. The Bass in lavabread sauce is a big favourite. You can enjoy real ales in the bar and there’s always real ales on cask. A cheeky glass of chilled pinot on a hot summers evening or a warm rioja red in front of the fire in the winter are also crowd pullers.

“

IT’S ONE OF SOUTH

GOWER’S MOST INACCESSIBLE BEACHES WHICH UNDOUBTEDLY

“

MAKE IT EVEN MORE

DESIRABLE

TO VISIT

mostly to North Devon. The boats would be sunk on the ebbing tide by removing their sea cocks, the heavy stones would have loaded into the hold and the boats re-floated on the next tide. This was a labour intensive process with over 100 men and women working in the quarry and loading the boats. The workers’ salary included an alcohol allowance which would be claimed at the two public houses, The Beaufort and The Ship. These are the two prominent white houses you will today see on arrival to Pwll Du and many years ago, as public houses, provided accommodation for the sailors when tide or weather prevented them from leaving. The Bay has a fascinating a tragic history. On November 28 1760 an Admiralty tender named the Caesar set sail on a press gang mission to Carmarthen Bay from Mumbles. The weather, turning severe, compelled the Captain (Adam Hood) to change course and return to Swansea. The ship’s pilot mistook Pwll Du headland for Mumbles and steered the ship onto the rocks. Some of the crew scrambled ashore but as the night passed and the ship broke up the press ganged men who were locked in the hold tragically met their deaths by drowning. Approximately 90 men lost their lives that night and were buried on the headland in a mass grave nearby, now called Gravesend. During World War 2, U-Boats patrolled the Bristol Channel on intelligence gathering missions sending back vital information to Germany on allied shipping numbers and movements. Pwlldu, according to former U-Boat crews, was used to replenish fresh water supplies. By slipping into the bay under the cover of darkness, crew could come ashore, fill their water containers and then disappear into the night. Coastguard records reveal a German U-Boat was sunk near Pwlldu in 1940 at Latitude: 51.51494 Longitude: -4.07936

The two Pubs Ship and Baeufrod

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Dan’s quick photography tip

The wildlife

Comerants on ring rock

NEXT TIME... Next month we will be heading out of Swansea to discover a village opposite Gower on the map but an hour’s drive away – beautiful Llanstphan in Carmarthenshire. We’ll visit the local impressive Castle, walk the beach, visit the excellent pubs and discover the best places to stay for a mini break I’ll see you then Richie

Just take it! If you find yourself considering whether or not to take a photograph of something or not just take it. I have regretted many times not taking a shot of a scene or situation that will never be repeated. If you don’t like the photo just delete it no harm done . But if you’ve lost the moment you can’t turn back time so if in doubt take it, you have nothing to lose. So what can you do there? Pwll Du isn’t a regular Gower surfing spot as it’s well sheltered. But in the right conditions such as a big swell and a Northerly wind, it can produce excellent surf. However, as Gower surfer Mike Arnold explains, you would have to be a very experienced surfer to ride Pwll Du’ s waves as conditions can be deadly. Swimming on the other hand is excellent. The bay is protected from Gower’s rougher currents by its rock formation, the Needles, at the western end of the bay. There can’t be many better places to go in Gower on a warm summers evening than the clear waters there. Pwlldu, like many areas of the Gower coast, is managed by the National Trust. I have included a link from their web site of the excellent Southgate, Hunts Bay and Pwlldu circular walk. If you walk in the spring, you’ll see and smell the fantastic and aromatic wild garlic that grows close to the two white houses and makes an excellent addition to any salad. And its good news for dog walkers who can enjoy the beach all year round Pwlldu is excellent for casting a line, especially in late summer and autumn where Dabs, Flounders and Plaice can be caught off the beach and Bass off the headland in the spring and summer months. The beautiful Ballan Wrasse can also be caught off the rocks both sides of the bay all year round and can be seen regularly by snorkelers. Kayakers have also fish in the bay by trailing lines behind their craft as they paddle through the clear waters. The best fishermen however, without doubt, are the seals, cormorants and Shag who frequent the bay. Take an early morning stroll along the bay and you may be fortunate watch seals play closely behind an unsuspecting kayaker or observe the full-bellied cormorants and Shag drying their wings on the headland after a successful catch. Cormorants and Shags are often confused as they look very similar so here’s an easy way to tell them apart. The cormorant has a stouter, more powerful beak than the shag. The angle of its forehead where it joins the beak is shallower and the yellow skin around the face is more extensive. Cormorants can be found either on the coast or at inland waters, where there are some large breeding colonies. Shags are birds of the coast. Occasionally, they turn up inland along rivers and lakes, but usually alone (cormorants are often seen in groups inland). The shag’s beak is more delicate in comparison to the cormorant’s and the forehead angle is steeper. Young birds sometimes show the hint of the adult bird’s crest.

Did you know?

A 4 bedroom detached house for sale on Hilland drive, Bishopston can be yours for £318,000 . Not quite what you are after? Okay then, what about a five bedroomed detached house for sale on Backingstone Lane, Bishopston with Detached, Double and Single Garages for £1,250,000. Or how about a six bedroomed detached house for sale on Chantry Acre in Bishopston with detached barn and planning for 2 bed holiday let, yard and paddocks of approx. 6 acres for a mere £2,650,000. Or I can offer you a 4 bed rental on Bishopston Road for £1200 pcm if that helps?

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OUT & ABOUT

A N D R E W

M O R G A N â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S

SWANSEA BAY WALK Join ANDREW MORGAN as he leads us on a Swansea Bay walk. This month, he walks Clyne in early bloom.

Start/Finish location ..............Car Park by Woodman Inn Distance ......................................1.5 miles (1 hour) Level ............................................. Moderate Parking ......................................... As Above

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Clyne in (Early) Bloom... Clyne is famous for its Rhododendrons and each year ‘Clyne in Bloom’ becomes a celebration of the full flowering of the gardens. But by then you will have missed some of the early flowering varieties. These are often more colourful and there will be spring flowers appearing to make an early season walk all the more enjoyable.

Upcoming walks

Follow the lane at the side of The Woodman to the entrance gates and gatehouse of Clyne Gardens. Continue up the broad drive that gently ascends for some time, bringing you to an open area of grass that stretches to almost the top of the park. Watch on the left for a carved face in the remains of an old tree stump, now beginning to fade with age. Bare left on the path to cross the folly bridge in front of Clyne Castle. Continue along the path in front of the castle and ascend to Admiral Heneage-Vivian’s distinctive lookout folly where he would watch for ships sailing into Swansea Harbour.

MARCH... WED 01 Dare Valley Country Park (10 miles) • Moderate meet 9.00am Go Outdoors CP SAT 04 Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen (6 miles) • Moderate meet 11.00am Tairgwaith: Canolfan Maerdy

Bare left at the top then take a detour up the path towards the exit where the Vivian family dog graves are located. Retrace your way back down to the junction and turn right. Enjoy the view down to the sea then continue to the children’s rather grand Wendy House above the pond. Descend via the Japanese bridge and turn left on the tarmacadam path. Bare left and descend into the Dell and follow the stream in an area where later in the year you will enjoy the summer flowering. Watch for the Gunnera with its large leaves beginning to grow.

SUN 05 The Lower Swansea Valley (9 miles) • Moderate meet 9.00am Francis St. WED 08 Jersey Marine (7 miles) • Moderate meet 10.00am Swansea: Maritime Quarter: Cambrian Place SAT11Aber Valley Heritage Trail (6 miles) • Moderate meet 9.30am Francis St. MON13 Kilvey Hill (3 miles) • Moderate meet 10.00am Junction of Harbour View Rd/St. Illtud’s Cres.

Bare left on one of the paths and meander around the plantings, descending gently towards the entrance gate. As long as you keep descending, you are going in the right direction! Passing through the entrance gate, Clyne Chapel is located on the other lane to the right and is worth a quick diversion to see it from the outside before finishing the walk.

Andrew Morgan

Transport: Traveline: www.traveline-cymru.info 0871 200 22 33 or BayTrans: www.baytrans.org.uk/

WED15 Southgate to Swansea (11 miles) • Moderate meet 9.30am Swansea: Quadrant Bus Station: Outside Greggs SAT18 Penllergare (6 miles) • Moderate meet 11.00am Penllergare Valley Woods car park SUN19 Cwm Gwrelych (11 miles) • Moderate meet 9.00am Francis St. TUE 21 Penrice Castle & Cefn Bryn (8 miles) • Moderate meet 10.00am Penmaen: Rose Cottage Car Park SAT 25 Kilvey Hill (5 miles) • Moderate meet 11.00am Swansea: SA1: Village Hotel car park WED 29 Kidwelly to Ferryside (5 miles) • Moderate meet 10.00am Gowerton car park off B4295

Visit our website: www.swansearamblers.org.uk

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Advertisement Feature

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MIKE DAVIES LEISURE LTD. 665 Gower Road, Upper Killay, Swansea SA2 7HE 01792 203177

2017MarAdsPlan.indd 174

24/02/2017 13:31:34

Motoring

THE ALL NEW MINI COUNTRYMAN (page 176)

TRAINER SWANSEA

Motoring_SLMAR17.indd 1

375 Carmarthen Road, Swansea 01792 651474

24/02/2017 11:52

MOTORING

It may not look new, but Mini has made some big changes to the Countryman. We sent Peter Slee to investigate WHAT’S NEW? Despite looking similar to its predecessor, the 2017 Mini Countryman is an all-new vehicle. It’s based on the BMW ‘UKL’ platform underpinning the BMW X1 and 2 Series Active Tourer, which Mini already uses on its newest-generation Clubman estate. This does mean that the Countryman is dramatically larger than its predecessor, packing in an extra 20cm of length - 7.5cm of it between the wheels - and 3cm of width. It’s a significant increase, because it moves the Countryman up into the C-segment, which is the broadest and most competitive market sector in the UK.

LOOKS AND IMAGE The exterior may be a bit ‘love-it-or-hate-it’, but even the biggest MINI detractor can’t ignore the improvements inside. Quality has taken a significant step forward from the old car, with plusher materials, neatly styled switchgear and a general air of solidity only bettered by the Audi Q2 at this price point.

A significant part of that appeal is the way the cars drive - which Mini somewhat chintzily refers to as ‘maximum go-kart feel’ - and despite the fact the Countryman is the largest Mini ever, it seems to translate pretty well to the big crossover. The chunky steering wheel offers a precise and well-controlled action and the size of the car means that some of the fidgety nature of the smaller hatches is removed. On the Cooper S model we tested, the interior was a pretty highquality environment, with backlit surfaces, leather upholstery and suede on the door panels. Mini is aiming for a luxury feel to what is ultimately its flagship vehicle.

SPACE AND PRACTICALITY The march of progress brings along this second-generation car, which finally adopts the UKL2 platform found underneath cars like the Clubman estate and BMW X1. The new architecture means the Countryman is

FACTS AT A GLANCE Model: Mini Countryman Cooper S All4 Auto Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol (192bhp, 280Nm Transmission: Eight-speed automatic Performance: 0-60mph in 7.0 seconds, 138mph top speed Economy: 44.1mpg

Driving the most

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24/02/2017 10:16

MASSIVE MINI YET...

200mm longer and 30mm wider than the old one – making it larger than a Mazda CX-3 and significantly bigger than a Nissan Juke.

The extra length in the wheelbase liberates a huge amount of interior room and, as such, the Countryman is now no less practical than any other C-segment vehicle, whether hatchback or crossover, making it an ideal family car. Wherever you look, there’s more space, with significantly more legroom in the rear and more than 100 litres of additional load space in the boot too, which can be improved further by sliding the rear seats forwards. Any middle-seat passengers in the rear will be grateful for the car’s extra width too. The rear doors in particular are much larger for easier access and a handsfree boot opening operation is available.

BEHIND THE WHEEL Our test car was equipped with the 192bhp, 2.0-litre petrol engine. Fitted with the eightspeed Steptronic automatic and All4 four-wheel drive, this propels the Countryman to 60mph in seven seconds, although it doesn’t feel anywhere near as quick as that even with the vehicle set to sport mode. On paper, Mini cites a 44.1mpg fuel economy figure, but even in mixed use and with Green mode selected as often as

possible, we didn’t see much over 30mpg.

The car can also be specified with a lower output 1.5-litre, which with 136bhp sacrifices 2-2.5 seconds for the 60mph sprint depending on gearbox options, for around a 10% gain in fuel economy. A pair of 2.0-litre diesel engines is available, with 150bhp and 190bhp, the latter of which rivals the Cooper S for pace, but has up to 61.4mpg on paper. A hot Cooper JCW model is to follow, with a plug-in hybrid Cooper S E coming later in 2017. The Countryman proves a good steer on country roads, whatever the drive mode selected. While undeniably a much larger car than before, it doesn’t feel like a particularly big vehicle when you get it on enjoyable roads. The steering is well weighted and reasonably communicative, and without the fidgeting of the smaller models, it’s not as tiring to drive either. It’s also pretty solid on the motorway, although there is a fair amount of road noise at higher speeds. With park distance control as standard on all Countryman models, it’s an easy vehicle to manoeuvre too.

VALUE FOR MONEY The starting price for the Countryman is a reasonable £22,465. However, the automatic

gearbox and the All4 four-wheel-drive systems are options that will both set you back around £1,600 and soon start to make the Countryman look a little pricey - to say nothing of the other optional extras. In this Cooper S trim too, it’s not an inexpensive car to run - 44mpg on paper isn’t terrific and real-world economy will likely be lower still. Nevertheless, if you stick to a more frugal model, it should prove decent value for money. All cars come with Mini Connected infotainment, satellite navigation as well as Mini Visual Boost Radio with a 6.5-inch colour display and Bluetooth connectivity.

WHO WOULD BUY ONE? The Countryman is very much a car for someone who’s sold on the whole idea of Minis, but needs the space for all the trappings of modern family life. Mini’s Countryman is bigger than before and that puts it into some hard-fought territory, but it’s a talented car that has enough appeal to pull it off. It’s enough fun to drive to deserve being part of the Mini range, but adds some more genuine family-friendly abilities than its predecessor thanks to the new, larger platform. www.swansealife.co.uk | 177

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24/02/2017 10:16

THE NEW CITROËN C3 AT BASSETTS WITH CONNECTEDCAM CITROEN™*

NEW CITROEN C3 brings you innovative on-board technology, like the world first ConnectedCAM Citroën™* positioned behind the rear-view mirror, it’s integrated full HD camera with a wide 120° angle view, 128Gb memory and GPS. With a touch of a button, you can take a photograph or record up to 1 minute of video to share on social media or email to friends. The free ConnectedCAM Citroën™* app is like a personal safety camera too. It transmits GPS coordinates every time you stop, which could be

vital in a breakdown or accident. If the car senses an impact, the camera will save the footage from 30 seconds before and 1 minute afterwards. With a choice of 9 body colours and 23 roof colours, there are 36 possible combinations to consider. Colour touches also include fog light surround, door mirrors and rear quarter panels. You can express yourself further by selecting the unique Airbump® panels and dramatic optional panoramic sunroof.

ECONOMY, PERFORMANCE & SMART TECHNOLOGY NEW CITROEN C3 features a choice of the latest PureTech petrol and BlueHDi diesel engines. Each delivers a balance of economy, efficiency and inspiring performance. To keep you in control everywhere. CITROËN Connect Nav navigation* offers real-time traffic information at your fingertips or via voice recognition. Meanwhile the Blind Spot Monitoring system* alerts you to unseen vehicles behind, using a warning light in the door mirror. At your destination, the Reversing Camera* shows

a perfectly clear view on the 7 inch touchscreen for precise manoeuvres. The PureTech 110 engine won International Engine of the Year Award in the 1.1 to 1.4 category, organised by the Engine Technology International magazine. NEW CITROËN C3 was awarded the best ‘Urbanite in BBC TopGear Magazine’s latest ‘Best Cars of the World’ issue, in addition to being a finalist for European Car of the Year 2017.

AVAILABLE AT BASSETTS NOW!

2017MarAdsPlan.indd 178

24/02/2017 12:53:36

NEW CITROËN C3

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FROM ONLY £195 PER MONTH & £495 INITIAL PAYMENT ON PERSONAL LEASE° bassettsgroup.co.uk Model shown: New Citroën C3 PureTech 82 Manual Flair incl. Polar White paint and ‘Cross’ alloy wheels from £195 per month & £2767 initial payment. °Prices & offers apply to retail sales of qualifying models ordered & registered 01/01-31/03/2017 or until such time as offers/prices may be withdrawn by Citroën at its complete discretion & include VAT, delivery to dealer & number plates, Government Registration Fee & 12 months’ graduated vehicle excise duty. Optional paint available at extra cost. Elect 4 Personal Lease rentals shown apply to New Citroën C3 PureTech 68 manual Feel. 34 monthly rentals at the rates shown will be required followed by a significant optional final rental. Excess mileage charges may apply if the agreed annual mileage is exceeded. Payment of the optional final rental extends the rental term (this does not transfer title of the vehicle) & requires an annual rental equivalent to one months’ rental. You will not own the vehicle. Finance subject to status. Finance provided by and written quotations available on request from PSA Finance UK Ltd (company registration number 01024322), Quadrant House, Princess Way, Redhill, Surrey, RH1 1QA, UK. PSA Finance UK Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Over 18s only. A guarantee may be required. ARTHUR BASSETT & CO LTD IS ACTING AS A CREDIT BROKER AND NOT A LENDER. TO FINANCE YOUR VEHICLE WE MAY INTRODUCE YOU TO A LIMITED NUMBER OF LENDERS. Offers & specification correct at time of going to press from participating Dealers. Terms & conditions apply. Please ask us for details. Subject to stock availability. *Standard on Flair models.

Official Government fuel consumption figures (Range): Urban cycle, Extra urban, Combined (litres per 100km/mpg) & CO2 emissions (g/km); Highest: New Citroën C3 PureTech 68 manual Feel 5.7/49.6, 4.1/68.9, 4.7/60.1, 109. Lowest: New Citroën C3 BlueHDi 75 S&S manual Touch 4.2/67.3, 3.1/91.1, 3.5/80.7, 92. MPG figures are achieved under official EU test conditions, intended as a guide for comparative purposes only, and may not reflect actual on-theroad driving conditions.

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what’s on

CALENDAR OF EVENTS (page 182) WHAT’S COMING UP (page 184) BIG INTERVIEW (page 186)

WhatsOn_SLMAR17.indd 1

24/02/2017 11:54

Got something to tell us about, for inclusion in the What’s On section? Please contact Mark Rees...

THIS MARCH...

@reviewwales

SATURDAY

WORLD BOOK DAY

SWANSEA BAY BUSINESS LIFE AWARDS 2017

‘WHAT IS SWANSEA?’ PHOTO EXHIBITION

BRANGWYN HALL

CREATIVE BUBBLE, FINAL DAY

THURSDAY

MAX BOYCE LIVE IN CONCERT, THE PRINCESS ROYAL THEATRE, PORT THE PRINCESS ROYAL THEATRE, PORT TALBOT, 7.30PM

01792 545529

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

mark.rees@swwmedia.co.uk

DYLAN THOMAS CENTRE, 10AM - 3.30PM

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

ST DAVID’S FESTIVAL

AN EVENING WITH LEVISON

CYNTH WEYMAN EXHIBITION

MUMBLES PIER, FROM 10AM

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, 7.30PM

FFWRNES, LLANELLI, UNTIL APRIL 8

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

SAM BAILEY

THE MAGIC FLUTE

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, 7.30PM

PONTARDAWE ARTS CENTRE, 7.30PM

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

10 11 12

GRIFFITH JOHN: SWANSEA’S MISSIONARY SWANSEA MUSEUM, UNTIL JUNE 26

ST DAVID’S GALA CONCERT FFWRNES, LLANELLI, 7PM

LINDSAY SEERS NOWHERE LESS NOW GLYNN VIVIAN ART GALLERY, UNTIL MARCH 19

MONDAY

DONG DING MURDER ME ON HIGH! SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, UNTIL MARCH 15

182 | www.swansealife.co.uk

DPSWhatsOn1_SLMAR17.indd 1

24/02/2017 15:55

WHAT’S ON Thriller Live, Swansea Grand Theatre

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

MATTHEW BOURNE’S THE RED SHOES

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE (ARTS WING)

WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE, CARDIFF, UNTIL SATURDAY MARCH 18

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE (ARTS WING), UNTIL MARCH 17

14 15

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

16 17 18

SWANSEA SPORTS AWARDS BRANGWYN HALL, 7PM

MONDAY

LLYS NINI FUNDRAISING NIGHT

101 DONATIONS AT THE LIBERTY STADIUM, 7.30PM

TUESDAY

19 SPRING CRAFT FAIR

VARIETY NIGHT LIVE

ENVIRONMENT CENTRE, FROM 11AM

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, 7.30PM

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

MARILYN

LES MISÉRABLES SCHOOL EDITION

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE (ARTS WING), 7.45PM

PONTARDAWE ARTS CENTRE, UNTIL MARCH 26

MONDAY

TUESDAY

DAVID STARKEY: HENRY VIII

THE MOON AND A SMILE

20 21 22 23 24 THRILLER LIVE

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, UNTIL MARCH 25

TEA DANCE

PHILIP EGLIN: THE WAKELIN AWARD

FFWRNES, LLANELLI, 2.30PM

GLYNN VIVIAN ART GALLERY, UNTIL MAY 2

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

WRITING CRIME FICTION WITH KATHERINE STANSFIELD

ULTIMATE MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH

DYLAN THOMAS CENTRE, 2PM

BRANGWYN HALL, NOON UNTIL 4PM

27 28

25 26

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, 7.30PM

GLYNN VIVIAN ART GALLERY, UNTIL MAY 1

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

DAVID WALLIAMS’ GANGSTA GRANNY

LIZZIE EAST MORRISTON PHOTOGRAPHER

BBC NOW: BEETHOVEN 6

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, UNTIL APRIL 1

SWANSEA MUSEUM, UNTIL APRIL 3

BRANGWYN HALL, 7.30PM

29 30

FRIDAY

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WHAT’S ON

RUBY WAX: FRAZZLED

Where: Swansea Grand Theatre When: Tuesday, March 7, 7.30pm Join Ruby Wax for a tour of the mind – how to use it, not lose it. Outrageously witty, smart and accessible, U.S. born comedy-actor-writer will spend the evening exploring a scientific solution to modern problems: mindfulness, based on her latest best-selling book, A Mindfulness Guide for the Frazzled, in what is described as “the ultimate guide to saner living.” “So far this year I’ve been working on the return of my show Frazzled following the publication of my book, A Mindfulness Guide for the Frazzled in paperback,” says Ruby. “I’ll present a fantastically entertaining show that will remain conversational, as well as being funny and insightful. This is your passport to saner living. I might not be sane myself but I do a pretty good imitation.”

VARIETY NIGHT

Where: Swansea Grand Theatre When: Friday, March 17 and Saturday, March 18, 7.30pm How’s this for a line-up? Following last year’s sell-out show, the variety spectacular returns to Swansea for TWO nights this time out, with host Kev Johns introducing: music from Only Men Aloud, Britain’s Got Talent’s trampoline artist Vladimir Georgievsky, Stella’s Craig Gallivan, The X Factor’s Kayleigh Marie, panto star Matt Edwards, BGT’s mother and son team Mel and Jamie, with dancing from Millie and Millie. “The initial idea came while watching Sunday Night at the London Palladium on TV a couple of years ago,” explains Craig Gallivan, organizer of the show with Gemma James. “The success of Britain’s Got Talent had given new life to variety and ITV were now confident enough to commission a new series of London Palladium shows. We just thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be great if there was something like this at The Swansea Grand Theatre?’ And so...Variety Night Live was born. “Having taken the plunge to go for two nights this year, we knew we had to go all out for an incredible line-up...we think we’ve hit the jackpot.”

3 To celebrate the return of this year’s RHS Flower Show Cardiff, we have two pairs of tickets to give away. All you have to do is correctly answer the question below: Which park is the RHS held in? A. Singleton Park B. Bute Park C. Underhill Park Then send your answers on a postcard with your address, name and telephone number to Swansea Life, Urban Village, High Street, Swansea Sa1 1NW. To arrive no later than Friday, March 24

GET YOUR GARDENING MOJO BACK...!

When: Friday 7 to Sunday 9 April Get ready for your annual spring onslaught on the garden ahead of the hugely popular RHS Flower Show Cardiff which returns to Cardiff next month embracing Wales’ Year of Legends, 2017 with a host of themed gardens and features to spark the imagination. The Flower Show – which is organised by the Royal Horticultural Society in partnership with Cardiff Council – pulled in some 26,000 visitors in 2016 and this year will run from Friday 7 to Sunday 9 April in Bute Park. Encouraging visitors to embrace this year’s magical, mystical theme – and inspiring showgoers to experience the rich history of Welsh legends and their connection to the surrounding landscape – featured show gardens will include Bridgend College’s ‘Y Meudwyaeth’, inspired by the Blackfriars monastic site and heritage, as well as Chris Myers’ homage to Blodeuwedd, a mythical woman made from flowers who, legend has it, was turned into an owl as punishment for trying to murder her husband. The Museum of Wales will also be at the show with a ‘Welsh Wood and Woodlands’ display, telling the story of the diversity of Welsh woodlands, both historically and today.

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THIS MARCH, WHY NOT...

MARK REES rounds up a selection of this month’s best new book reviews.

Glamorgan Folk Tales for Children

By Cath Little, available now in paperback from The History Press priced £9.99 Travel on a magical journey through the beautiful landscape of ancient Glamorgan with this unique collection of folk tales retold for children by a professional storyteller. Of the book, author Cath Little says, “These are our treasures, our intangible heritage; these ancient tales connect us with one another, with the land and with the people who once lived here. I love these old stories and I wanted to help pass them on and keep them alive on the tongue.”

Voices From the Factory Floor: The Experiences of Women who Worked in the Manufacturing Industries in Wales, 1945-75 By Catrin Stevens, available now in

paperback from Amberley priced £14.99

Pupils of Danygraig Primary School with author and headmaster Nigel Paul Morgan celebrate World Book Day

… celebrate World Book Day 2017? World Book Day 2017 returns on Thursday, March 2– which means mums and dads all over Swansea will be getting their children ready to become characters from Harry Potter or the Mr Men. The day is marked in more than 100 countries worldwide, and designated by UNESCO as a worldwide celebration of books and reading. World Book Day is a celebration of authors, illustrators, books, but most importantly, it’s a celebration of reading. This is the 20th year there will be a World Book Day, and thanks to National Book Tokens, millions of children and young people will receive book vouchers which they can redeem at their local bookshop to pick one of ten, new, exclusive and completely free books.

In Wales the post-Second World War period was one of gradual decline for the major, traditional, male-orientated industries of coal, steel and slate. While whole libraries have been devoted to chronicling the rise and fall of the heroic miner and quarryman in Welsh history, the story of working-class Welsh women, who laboured in our factories in Wales during this same period, has been largely neglected and ignored. Voices from the Factory Floor aims to put this right and to allow the women to tell their own stories

Welsh Folk Tales

By Peter Stevenson, available now in hardback from The History Press priced £12.99 Wales is steeped in tradition. All over the country, people will point out a mountain, cottage or standing stone that has a story of its own. Today these old tales are kept alive by Welsh speakers and also storytellers, who retell the ancient tales for a new audience. Discover the lost Pembrokeshire island of Gwales, the Beddgelert Hound, Merlin’s tree in Carmarthen and Arthur’s hunting of the giant boar.

The books featuring this year include a Peppa Pig story, Where’s Wally?, The Famous Five and Horrid Henry as well as an exclusive tale by David Walliams.

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WHAT’S ON

THE BIG interview

“I will never ever stop singing my heart out!” The X Factor winner Sam Bailey is bringing her new tour to Swansea in March, and can’t wait to get back on the road. MARK REES reports mark.rees@swwmedia.co.uk

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She might be packing out theatres on her latest tour, but it wasn’t so long ago that Sam Bailey was an aspiring singer hoping to break into the industry. As such, she can still recall the hard graft involved when she was starting out in her career in music. “I know how it feels to be gigging for little money and chasing a dream,” says the 2013 The X Factor winner. “It is so hard to get a break in this industry and I wanted to give back to people who are in the same boat that I used to be in. If I can give even just one person a leg up into the industry then I will be happy.” And that’s exactly what she’ll be doing when she arrives in Swansea this month, and the aspiring musician supporting her will be local rising star Shellyann Evans, who appeared on The Voice UK in 2015. As for anyone else thinking of following in her footsteps, Sam has some handy words of advice: “Don’t give up! And always stay grounded and humble.” Sam first came to prominence thanks to her powerful performances on the reality TV show, and has since released two albums, the second of which forms the basis of her new tour. “I am so excited,” she says ahead of her visit to the city on March 8. “For me, nothing is more rewarding than getting the chance to share my music with my fans live. My fans are so diverse, so there’s something for everyone from ballads to dance track and poppy numbers. There’s nothing worse than an album or show where every song is the same. “Swansea Grand Theatre is such a terrific venue, and I’ve always had such great support from my Swansea fans, I’m really looking to giving them my thanks by giving them an incredible live show.” Sam also reveals that she has some pre-show rituals which she’ll be going through backstage at the city’s landmark theatre. “I like to chill out in my dressing room with a cup of tea – vocal coaches would have a field day with me as you are not supposed to have milk before singing, but I have never found that I have a problem with this. I usually have my hair and make-up done and then just have some time to sit. “I always have to Facetime my hubby before I go on stage, if he is not there with me. It’s become a bit of a ritual for me now to get my good luck message from him and it makes me

feel good before a show. Facetime is a life saver for me whilst I am on the road as it makes me feel like I am not missing out on time with Craig and the kids, I can call and see them at home and talk to them as if I was really there, I love it.” Sam’s rise from modest prison guard to musical star is well documented in her new album, Sing My Heart Out, which was released at the end of last year. A musical collaboration with three-time Grammy Award nominees Steve Dorff and Ben Adams, who first rose to fame as a member of A1, the album is completely original and has been co-written by Sam herself. “After the success of my first album, I knew that I wanted to release more music,” explains Sam. “This time has been so different for me because it contains my own material. I have been song writing since I was a teenager and it’s always been an ambition of mine to release original music. I love all the songs on my first album, but I wanted to give a piece of me to my fans. “I’ve loved doing my promotional signings and getting to meet fans and hear first-hand how much they love the album. It’s so rewarding to know that I have made something that so many people can relate to. I know how I feel about music and how certain songs make me feel different things and remind of certain times in my life, so to be able to do this for other people just feels incredible to me.” When asked to single out a favourite track, she has some difficulty, but she settles on one – for now, at least. “So many of the songs are personal to me and so will always be close to my heart, however at the minute my favourite is No Tomorrow. “It is such a beautiful love song and is exactly how I feel about my wonderful husband Craig, who I wouldn’t be able to pursue this career without. Even my children love this song and whenever I hear it I always imagine couples using this as their first dance at their wedding.” Looking to the future, with the tour wrapped up Sam has a few more ambitions that she’s like to achieve. “I loved starring as Mama Morton in Chicago and this is definitely something I want to do more of. I’m a huge musical fan and have seen Les Mis about ten times so it would be a dream come true to be in that. I’m keen to do more acting and presenting too. But I will never ever stop singing my heart out!”

“The show has a big heart and people love it so they return.”

Sam Bailey will be at Swansea’s Grand Theatre on March 8. Her latest album, Sing My Heart Out, is out now.

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Social diary

WEDDED BLISS (page 192) BURNS NIGHT CELEBRATIONS (page 204) MISS WALES FUNDRAISER (from page 208)

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SOCIAL DIARY • LAUNCH PARTY

LAUNCH PARTY

WHAT: The launch of the 2017 JCP Swansea Half Marathon. WHERE: Morgans Hotel TELL ME MORE: The JCP – backed event which is now seen as one of the UK’s top 10 half marathons is back for the 4th consecutive year on June 25 with a record-breaking 8,000 runners.

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SOCIAL DIARY • WEDDING

WEDDING WHAT: The marriage of GP registrar Ritu Nirula and cluster network pharmacist Rhys Jenkins from Bishopston WHERE: St Peter’s Church in Newton followed by a reception at Swansea University’s Bay Campus ©Marc Smith Photography

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;¢ WEDDING

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SOCIAL DIARY • CELEBRATION

CELEBRATION

WHAT: ‘ Thank you’ reception WHERE: Maggie’s Cancer care Centre, Swansea TELL ME MORE: The event offered charity officials the opportunity to share their plans for the next 12 months with friends and supporters

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SOCIAL DIARY • CELEBRATION

CELEBRATION

WHAT: Chinese new year celebrations. WHERE: Brangwyn Hall, Swansea. TELL ME MORE: The Year of the Rooster was welcomed in a celebration event which helped raise money for the Swansea Chinese Community’s most vulnerable.

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SOCIAL DIARY • CELEBRATION

WOMENS AID WHAT: An evening get-together organised to celebrate St Dwynwen’s Day WHERE: Coast Café, Swansea TELL ME MORE: The event was organised by Women’s Aid in Swansea

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SOCIAL DIARY • RESIDENT EVIL

RESIDENT EVIL WHAT: The Swansea premiere of Resident Evil: The Final Chapter. WHERE: Swansea’s Odeon. TELL ME MORE: Production designer Edward Thomas brought his latest film, the sixth instalment in the Resident Evil franchise, home to Swansea for a Welsh premiere. Pictures: leeshawilliamsphoto@gmail.com

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;¢ CELEBRATION

CELEBRATION WHAT: Staff party and awards ceremony. WHERE: Marriott Hotel, Swansea. TELL ME MORE: An annual night recognising staff at the maritime quarter hotel

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;¢ BURNS NIGHT DINNER

BURNS NIGHT DINNER WHAT: Burns Night Dinner WHERE: Marriott Hotel, Swansea TELL ME MORE: Swansea Bay Business Club hosted the event. Aberdeen-born Graeme Yorston, the current chief executive officer of the Principality Building Society, joined members for dinner and celebrations.

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SOCIAL DIARY • WEDDING

WEDDING WHAT: The marriage of Cath Perry and Ashley St Leger WHERE: St Hilary’s Church in Killay followed by a reception held at The King Arthur Hotel in Reynoldston. Pictures: Martin Ellard. www.mybigdayphotos.co.uk

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;¢ FUNDRAISER

FUNDRAISER WHAT: Fab Feb Fundraiser. WHERE: The Riverside, Aberdulais TELL ME MORE: Shannon Lewis who is a Miss Wales 2017 finalist representing Neath Port Talbot organised a charity money-raising dinner event

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N2SW Cycle Ride for Maggie's Saturday 24 – Sunday 25 June 2017 Start: Bangor University, ﬁnish in Swansea. In association with Amigo Cycling Club, cycle the length of Wales. Accommodation, meals, transfers, jersey & goody bag included. Registration: £100. Fundraising target: £400. Register: https://www.maggiescentres.org/how-you-can-help/take-part/allevents/n2sw-cycle-ride/ Maggie's Swansea provides free practical, emotional and social support for people with cancer and their family and friends. For further information contact Lucia Osmond at lucia.osmond@maggiescentres.org

www.maggiescentres.org facebook.com/maggiesswansea @maggiesswwales Maggie Keswick Jencks Cancer Caring Centres Trust (Maggie’s) is a registered charity, No. SC024414

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Tforme you

REAL LIFE WEDDING (page 218) EDDIE’S DIARY (page 212) MOTHERS DAY GIFTS (page 214) YOUR BABY PICS! (page 229)

Stradey Park Hotel, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, SA15 4HA (01554) 758171 • myddfaispa@stradeyparkhotel.com

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TIME FOR YOU

BY INVITATION W I T H

E D D I E

W H I T N E Y

Swansea businessman Eddie Whitney Keeps us up to date with his charity work and social diary...

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TIME FOR YOU

Well no, not really actually. Because as I strolled through The Quadrant my eyes were drawn to a gathering group of families and excited teenagers. An avalanche of red and white confronted me as I ploughed my way through the excitable crowd. Over 100 enthusiastic smiles greeted me as I was swamped by the sound of talented voices echoing through the streets of Swansea. The 100 strong Bishop Core cast of High School Musical blew me away that day with their talent and skill. So much so that I booked my tickets almost immediately. Upon walking into the school on that rainy night my heart was lifted by the balloons, bunting and bursting energy of this vibrant festival of talent. The show itself reflected an incredible amount of work and flair from its pupils within cast, crew and orchestra. There were moments where I completely forgot that this was a Swansea school hall and envisaged myself in a West End theatre. Yes, really! Matthew Parker played the lead Troy, with the perfect blend of truth and theatricality. Kaiah Rutterford rightly deserved the title of leading lady given the colour and maturity of her voice. And the cast, well, spine-tingling is probably the best way of putting it! Their execution of choreography, acting and singing was completely mesmerising and a real delight to watch. Combine this with the hilarious performance from Ava Howard as the ridiculous Ms Darbus and Dylan Hopkins as the bundle of energy that is Ryan and you have one incredible performance. The cast and crew created a magical experience for the audience. The set propelled the audience into an American high school gym, accompanied by exciting lighting effects and flawless orchestration. It is evident that this school has a thriving Performing Arts Department committed to producing work of an exceptional quality and ensuring inclusivity and professionalism within their cast.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

UST an average Sunday in Swansea city centre...

THE CAST & CREW

CREATED A

MAGICAL EXPERIENCE FOR THE

AUDIENCE

Eddie x

Bishop Gore are set to do it all again with their site specific Shakespeare production in the summer months and their sophisticated performance of Les Miserable next February. Given the success of this sell out run, be sure to get your tickets early as this is most certainly going to be one to watch!

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At H ome with Ash ley T hom as Pl atte r, £8 , De ben ham s,

Swa nsea

Baylis and Harding Pink Prosecco and Cassis Weekend Bag, £49 , Lloyds Pharmacy, Gorseinon and Neath

Black fur pearl sliders, £30, River Island, Swansea

Body and Soul Collection, £32, M&S, Parc Trostre

Strawberry Cotton Lawn Long Pj Set, £50, Cath Kidston, Cardiff

Decorative Vases (set of 2), £12.50, Next, Morfa Retail Park

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Hanging Heart Frame, £3, M&Co, Cardiff

English Pear and Freesia Home Candle, £44, Jo Malone, Cardiff

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Engraved Compact Mirror, £14.99, GettingPersonal.co.uk

Flower Heart Frame, £4, Matalan, Parc Cwmdu

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Love You Mum Biscuit Card, £9, BiscuiteersBaking.com

L’Occitane From Provence With Love Collection, £20, Debenhams, Swansea

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23/02/2017 14:37

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Link s Nec of Lond klac e, £8 on Auro 5, St r eph a Bi-Me en H t ughe al Clust er s, Sw anse a

Lancome La Rose à Poudrer, £35, Debenhams, Swansea

Mother’s Day Bouquet, £25, M&S, Swansea

Pink and Prosecc mug o gift s & Cass is et, £ 12, M shower cr orris ons, eme Mor fa

Thanks Grandma Jug, £8, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Teapot Cake, £12,M&S, Swansea

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Sanctuary With Love gift set,£22, Boots, Swansea

Wooden Heart Frame, £6, Wilko, Swansea

Silver Sterling sentiments for mum pendant charm, £40.00, Pandora, Swansea

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Wireless Activity Tracker, £24.99, Aldi, Gorseinon and Llansamlet

Thanks Mum Floral Cushion, £10, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

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BOUNCING BACK Solicitor Jayne Thomas went to bed as usual one night...to wake up in Morriston Hospital the next morning after her heart stopped beating. She tells PETER SLEE how the experience has changed her outlook on life and health

peter.slee@swwmedia.co.uk

It’s true that everyone has a story to tell, but some are definitely more unique than others. Not many can claim that they have stared death in the face and lived to tell the tale. Jayne Thomas can. Not only did she stare death in the face, she had a good look and decided it wasn’t for her. Four years ago, on October 26, 2012, Jayne Thomas ended her working day as she would any other. She prepared dinner and bathed and put to bed her 18 month old son Jacob before retiring for the night. At some point during that night however, Jayne’s heart stopped beating. Her heart stopped beating and she died. There was no warning, no symptoms, no aches or pains; no indication of what was about to happen to her. Apart from recovering from a recent cold she was in good health. But instead of waking up the next morning in her own bed, she woke up in Morriston hospital, Swansea and was greeted with a very uncertain future. Mercifully her husband at the time woke during the night and noticed that she wasn’t breathing. He was able to provide life-saving CPR until paramedics arrived to take her to hospital. Having been revived however, Jayne went on to cardiac arrest a further three times. At the hospital doctors estimated that she had approximately an hour to live. They assumed she had suffered brain damage due to a lack of oxygen. Her close family were called and told to prepare themselves for the worst. But Jayne’s heart did continue to beat and she eventually woke up four days later. But it was only to be met with the news that her heart was irretrievably damaged and the cause was unknown. At the time Jayne experienced extreme physical pain but she said what caused the most suffering was being told that she was, in all likelihood, about to die. ‘I was 31 and I had to come to terms with the fact that this was the end for me,” she says “ I had to say goodbye to my family and friends. I can’t even begin to tell you what it was like to look at my son at that time. The psychological impact was just devastating.’ On her fifth day in hospital, while trying to come to terms with all of this, she cardiac arrested for the fifth time. The doctors and nurses in intensive care and the cardiac care unit did everything they could to keep Jayne alive. She was airlifted by air ambulance to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham and placed on the transplant list. At one time Jayne was the number one priority for a heart transplant in the UK. She managed to survive this traumatic event and while at QE hospital she was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy. Tests revealed that the left side of Jayne’s heart wasn’t working. Her ejection fraction, that is the fraction of blood ejected from a ventricle of the heart with each beat, was less than five per cent. In essence she was experiencing heart failure. Jayne received an implant in the form of a pacemaker and defibrillator. These were to regulate her heart beat and to automatically restart it were it to stop. Jayne was told that if she could go six months without an incident her life may well go back to normal. Normal was not something Jayne was sure she would ever feel again. While she was enormously thankful for the care she had received from all staff at both hospitals, when Jayne got home she felt lost.

@PeterSlee56

She didn’t understand her condition. In fact she was still unsure what cardiomyopathy was. This is where Cardiomyopathy UK stepped in and provided invaluable support at a very difficult time. Cardiomyopathy UK, also known as the heart muscle charity, was founded 25 years ago. Its purpose is to help those affected by cardiomyopathy to lead long and fulfilling lives. It is not curable but it can most often be successfully treated so those affected can enjoy long and fulfilling lives. As Jayne began to come to terms with her experience and life slowly got back on track she realised just how lucky she had been. Not only that she had survived but also that she was surrounded by close family and friends. She was aware that others suffering from cardiomyopathy may not have such a strong network to fall back on. She decided to be proactive and give something back to Cardiomyopathy UK; to help ensure that their vital work with patients continued. Bounceback was Jayne’s way of doing this. Bounceback consists of a series of three events - the Swansea half marathon, a sponsored bounce event - yes that 24hrs of continuous trampoline bouncing- and a sophisticated black tie dinner event. Jayne completed the half marathon in June last year. On September 24 she was joined by many family, friends and supporters to make the 24hr bounce event a great success. The black tie dinner will take place on March 11 at the Liberty Stadium in Swansea. Jayne says she wanted to do something significant not only as a way to raise more money for CMUK but to challenge herself. Although from a sporting background (she once represented GB at gymnastics) she would never have contemplated running a half marathon. ‘It was really hard...almost as hard as dying!’ she jokes. Despite training for the event she admits that she was not in her comfort zone. But knowing that she was running for all of the other people who had had a similar experience to her really motivated her, ‘Honestly, it’s the only reason I made it across the finish line. And although I found it hard I was so proud of myself for finishing’ The 24hr bounce event was also a real physical challenge but Jayne admits that it was a lot more fun than running! Jayne has already exceeded her fundraising goal and she looks forward to adding to that total with her next event. Jayne works full time as a criminal solicitor at a Brecon-based law firm. She still lives in Swansea and enjoys nothing more than spending fun-filled weekends with her six year old son Jacob and her new partner. What next for her? As always, she has a few things in the pipeline, including participating in the next Swansea Bay 10km race. But she says it’s important to not set limits for herself anymore, “Before this happened to me I know I wouldn’t have been brave enough to attempt some of these things,” she adds. “ But when you survive something like this and surprise everyone, including yourself with how strong and determined you are it just feels wrong to ever tell yourself you can’t do something. I can do anything I want! “

• Tickets for the March 11 dinner are available at Bounceback16events@gmail.com

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24/02/2017 13:54

TIME FOR YOU

REAL LIFE WEDDING Shaunna-leigh Bowen & Andrew Clarris Shaunna-leigh Bowen, 25, a Midwife from Gowerton, and Andrew Clarris, 30, a Computer Server Consultant from Loughour, had a winter wedding at Oldwalls. Swansea Life’s JESS HAMMETT speaks with the bride…

How did the proposal happen? We were in Las Vegas in front of the Bellagio Fountains, on an evening in September 2015. I was really shocked as I wasn’t expecting it! Where did you get married? Was it difficult to choose a venue? Originally, we always said we would get married in Las Vegas. But three days leading up to the proposal, we had food poisoning! We also always thought we would get married in June, but after we came home from Las Vegas, we heard about Oldwalls, and visited in December. I am quite indecisive, but I really like Christmas. Although we never considered a winter wedding before, once it sprung to mind it just seemed right. The gorgeous lake and trees that surround Oldwalls looked so pretty when we visited, even though it was raining. We decided to book for the following December, as we knew it would be beautiful - rain or shine! We were very lucky on our wedding day, as it didn’t rain. In fact, our photographer struggled

to capture our group shots because the sun was so bright and low! We also had photographs at Gower Fresh Christmas Trees, in Three Crosses. It would have been really muddy if it had been raining, but it was beautiful! How would you describe your wedding theme? We wanted our theme to be Christmassy, and quite traditional. We chose a deep purple colour scheme to make it classy. We made some decorations, using Pintrest for inspiration, but we also used Sparkles and Bows. They were at a wedding showcase in Oldwalls, and we loved their centrepieces. One of my bridesmaids made the invites and table decorations. Did you have any flowers? I struggled finding a florist. I had gone to a few wedding fayres, but I couldn’t find anyone with examples of what I had in mind. We found BloomingBelles through Facebook, and she was truly amazing. I met up with her a few times, for

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her to understand what I wanted. She was like a friend in the end – I would be there for an hour and we would start talking about all sorts of things! Tell us about your wedding dress… I booked the appointment with Cariad Bridal in Swansea, and it was the first dress I tried on! It was nothing I thought I would have gone for. It is quite fitted, flaring at the bottom, with a high neck with lace and a diamante band around the middle. It fitted my theme perfectly. Years ago, my mum bought her dress there – before it was Cariad Bridal – so it was very special to me. What suits did the groom choose? We bought the suits in Crush Mens Outfitters. We found out about them through a wedding fayre. They were grey tweed, and were new in when we started looking. We thought it would be different and compliment the Christmas wedding theme.

Did you have bridesmaids? I had two bridesmaids, one of them was Andrew’s sister, and the other has been brought up like a sister to me. Their dresses were deep purple, and they were from Rhapsody Bridal. Tell us about your beauty prep on the day… Following recommendation, Farhana Ali did my makeup. I found my hairdresser, Lucie Summerfield, through Facebook. I had my hair half up half down, and curled. What was your favourite moment? I loved it all! After the ceremony, Andrew and I went for a quick drink and had confetti photographs. This was the first time with each other since saying our vows. It was nice to be able to relax and enjoy with one another! How important was photography for your big day? It was one of the most important things we booked. After my parents passed away I realised

how important photographs were. I wanted them to keep, to show family in the future. I would highly recommend Rob from Pure Creations Photography. We wanted someone we could get along with, because Andrew and I are not the most confident in front of the camera! He got to understand us, and we had a pre-wedding photo shoot at Llanelli beach. We didn’t know how to stand or pose, so this was a great opportunity to get used to the camera. He was happy to do anything we suggested, and he was really approachable. Do you have any advice for brides to be? Don’t rush into any decisions. Choose what you want – not what other people want you to choose.

Images: Pure Creations Photography www. purecreationsphotography.com www.swansealife.co.uk | 219

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24/02/2017 08:12

TIME FOR YOU

‘We should all

STOP persecuting ourselves’

Journalist and TV presenter Sian Williams battled breast cancer two years ago. The mother-of-four whose father was from Llanelli and mother Swansea, tells GABRIELLE FAGAN how the experience has changed her outlook on life and health

LTHOUGH Sian Williams acknowledges she’s “living with uncertainty” since her battle with breast cancer two years ago, the experience has, she reveals, given her a new and more liberated perspective. The former host of BBC Breakfast for 11 years, was diagnosed a week after her 50th birthday in 2014 and underwent a double mastectomy. “One of the brilliant doctors who treated me told me at the end of it all, ‘You’ve got to live with uncertainty because there’s no clear-cut path ahead,’” she explains. “But knowing that actually made it a lot easier, because after all, we’re all living with uncertainty as no one ever knows what’s around the corner. That doctor also told me, ‘You’re lucky, you’ve got a full and healthy life, just go out, enjoy it and live it.’ In the early days, I did have anxious moments thinking, ‘Maybe it’s back’, but then you just get on with things like work and the family and realise there’s no point constantly worrying.” The 52-year-old mother-of-four, who has two adult sons from a previous marriage as well as a son, Seth, 10, and daughter, Eve, seven, with her TV producer husband Paul Woolwich, has previously revealed that her biggest fear following her diagnosis was not being able to see her youngest children grow up.

“Nowadays I just feel very blessed and so fortunate that my cancer was very treatable. I’m in robust good health and all my check-ups, which I will continue to have for years, have been clear,” says this down-toearth woman who acknowledges, “it’s taken work and been an effort”, but she’s now able to feel “very positive” about the future. Health is currently a work focus too as she’s been investigating the vast array of health products available on the high street with co-host Dr Ranj Singh on ITV series Save Money: Good Health. “We spend so much money as a nation on over-the-counter remedies and supplements, because often we’re looking for a quick health fix or may be reluctant to go to a doctor. It’s about helping viewers decide if they’re spending their money wisely and exploring any cheaper alternatives,” says Williams, who was born in London to Welsh parents. “My dad, John was one of the volunteers testing out products and that was great fun for both of us. I’ve always been a big vitamin taker, but my father had never taken a pill in his life before taking part in this, and is hugely cynical about supplements and remedies. It was interesting for me to test sleep aids whose use is increasing as more and more people struggle with sleep problems. I had years of getting up in the early hours for breakfast TV which can jar your body clock. Lately, I find I can get to sleep, but sometimes wake up in the early hours and find it hard to drift back off again. As well as sleeping pills, we looked at natural ways to see if they help, including drinking cherry juice.”

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Her personal health battle, which she kept secret until May 2016, has made her re-focus her own approach to health and dieting. “We should all stop persecuting ourselves about what we eat. ‘Diet’ is a word which reeks of a punishment regime where pleasure doesn’t get a look in, and that can’t be good for us,” she declares. “I watched my mum on diets while I was growing up and although I’d sworn never to diet myself over the years, I started excluding quite a lot of food groups in the belief it would make me healthier. I’ve tried fasting, cutting out sugar, gluten, and paid attention to reports about wine or certain foods which have been said to raise our cancer risk. So I’ve been all about drinking green tea, eating salmon and running.” The presenter, who anchors 5 News on Channel Five and who lost her mother and her aunt to cancer, reflects: “It’s ironic that my husband’s never done any of that, and has been known to have things like a couple of doughnuts for breakfast, but I’m the one who got the cancer! Recently I’ve found out that it’s a varied diet which keeps you healthy and if you cut out too many food groups, your gut simply doesn’t like it. “The gut’s called the ‘second brain’ because it has such a direct influence on the way we feel and think and I’m researching foods which can give us a happy gut and healthy mind.” Nowadays she avoids imposing ‘healthy’ rules on herself and says: “I’m

kinder to myself. I’ve had enough of the ‘shoulds’ and ‘should nots’ which used to define what I did and instead this year my approach is: ‘I might do this or that’, which I regard as far better. I’ve realised if you break the rules you’ve set yourself, the result is you feel you failed, and who needs that?!” The last few years have, she says, inevitably changed the way she looks at life. “You become very aware of how important the people you love are to you after [illness]... and how important it is to spend time with them,” says Williams. “I focus on looking after the family, having a happy home, and showing compassion to other people. It’s about being more aware of when people need a bit more help and, hopefully, being the one who can offer it. That’s become much more important to me, and my philosophy is: concentrate on the big stuff and let the small stuff go by the way.” Ageing is of little consequence to her, she says with a smile, because “my fifties have been fab for me so far and I just feel everything’s all good at the moment. I have two mantras which are: ‘Be mindful, be grateful, be kind’ and one from the wonderful Winnie-the-Pooh books: ‘You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think’. I’m healthy, I’ve got amazing children, and, after renting for two years, we’ve just moved and are making a new home in Kent, a project we’ve dreamt of tackling. Life couldn’t be better.”

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So...are

you in or out?

Celebrate the start of our season on 18th & 19th March with the Big Spring Sports Launch! Enjoy fun for the whole family with two full days of beach and watersports activities including kayaking, SUP and FREE beach volleyball and multi-sport taster sessions. During March and April we will have plenty of watersport offerings daily on weekends and all throughout school holidays.

BOOK NOW ON OUR WEBSITE! 01792 655844

www.360swansea.co.uk

info@360swansea.co.uk

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Unwrap an Oakleigh House Education Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will ever have to make. Whether your child is about to start in Nursery or preparing for Secondary School come and see what we have to oďŹ&#x20AC;er. Open Morning Thursday, 23rd March 2017 We look forward to welcoming you. To reserve your place contact Vikki Napier on: 01792 298537 or visit: www.oakleighhouseschool.co.uk admissions@oakleighhouseschool.co.uk Oakleigh House School, 38 Penlan Crescent, Swansea SA2 0RL

Oakleigh House Independent Nursery and School FOUNDED 1919

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Oakleigh House School is part of the Cognita Schools Group www.cognitaschools.com

23/02/2017 19:59:23

TIME FOR YOU

Dedicated teacher, 26, who suffers from a rare disorder is ordered by doctors to give up her job because working with CHILDREN could kill her peter.slee@swwmedia.co.uk

T was a job Hannah Harry had always loved. Standing in front of a class, of excited children and teaching them was all she ever wanted to do. But that is now all in the past. And Hannah, 26, has been forced to give up the job and can no longer work with children. She spends her days instead mainly at home taking more than 100 tablets and 18 IV injections every day. Hannah from Neath has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (PoTS) and mass cell activation disorder. It means her life revolves around daily treatments and hospital appointments up to three times a week. “It’s taken me six years to get to this point and it’s just part of my normal routine now,” she says.

@PeterSlee56

not being able to do a lot of the things that other children could do – I’d fall asleep during films and things like that. “It became my routine after lunch, I can remember the overwhelming feeling of the energy being drained out of my little body.” Even after repeated tests, doctors and specialists couldn’t work out what was

“But I’m very lucky because I’ve got a very supportive family and fiancé,. “People have been surprised as to how serious my conditions are as sometimes I’ll go out for a couple of hours and I don’t tell people I’ve had to go home for treatment. “I don’t want people to define me that way. Yes, it is tough and my conditions are hard work. But if people with my condition read my story I want them to be able to know that there is some positivity – in the end you just have to get on with it.” Hannah had struggled with her health since childhood. When she started school, teachers would regularly find her fast asleep. The former teacher adds: “I can remember

wrong, with consultants suggesting it was a unidentifiable virus or infection. In 2009, Hannah started university and moved into halls at Trinity St David’s to study teaching. While there, she was diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, a group of rare inherited conditions that affect connective tissue. But determined to live a normal life and unaware of the severity of her condition, Hannah went out and lived like a typical student.

In 2011, at the age of 21, she fell seriously ill yet again and decided to take control of her health. After three days of exhausting and painful testing at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, she said she was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tacychardic Syndrome (PoTS). Incredibly, Hannah managed to finish her degree while in hospital – even completing her final dissertation on the ward. After starting her medication, Hannah says she started to “come back to life”. She got her first teaching job soon after in a primary school in Neath. She loved her job and was enjoying her life getting back to normal again. But it was thrown into turmoil once again when a measles outbreak hit South Wales in 2012. The young teacher, who wasn’t vaccinated against measles as a child due to her allergies, caught the disease when it broke out in her school. She was driving home when she started to feel ill and within the space of an hour she was seriously ill. Along with measles, she also caught pneumonia. Hannah was rushed to Morriston Hospital in Swansea and spent nine weeks in intensive care. She describes it as a “terrifying, lifethreatening experience” and said while she can’t remember a lot of it, it was “horrific” for her family. Unable to get a job due to her illnesses, Hannah has now decided to write a blog to help spread positivity about her conditions. She says: “I was fed up of reading all this doom and gloom. It’s not all bad. Yes, I sometimes have to be in a wheelchair but when I’m well, I don’t. There are so many people who have no choice. “I want to highlight the positives.”

You can follow Hannah’s blog here: www.medicsmylineandme.com www.swansealife.co.uk | 223

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24/02/2017 08:16

TIME FOR YOU

Your pet pics! Who‘s the fur-est of them all? They’re part of the family, we wouldn’t be without them, and now we want to see just how gorgeous the furrier members of your household are... Email us your pet pics: laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

Name: Chester; Age: 2; Breed: French Bulldog Likes: Cuddles and ice cream; Dislikes: Passing traffic and ambulances; Owner: Gemma Amura; From: Killay

Name: Juno; Age: 2 years; Breed: Tabby; Likes: Food, playing with cat toys; Dislikes: Being left alone ; Owners: Gemma Parry and Chris Flynn; From: Fforestfach

Name: Hector; Age: 2; Breed: Miniature Dachshund Likes: The beach, running around on the sand & cwtches Dislikes: Rain and getting up early; Owner: Andrew Jones; From: Swansea

Name: Ginny; Age: 10; Breed: Ginger Girl; Likes: Cwtches, tickles, following her owners, waking them up at silly o’clock and her food; Dislikes: The Hoover; Owner: Helen & James Lumber; From: Treboeth

Name:Baloo; Age: 2; Breed: Chipoodle Likes: Steak; Dislikes: Bath time; Owner: Ashleigh Pyle; From: Waun Wen

Name: Miss Tiggywinkle; Age: 12; Breed: Miniature Jack Russell ; Likes: Travelling, (currently touring Europe) Dislikes: Other dogs; Owner: Julie Harris

Name:Luna; Age: 14 weeks; Breed: Blue Point Ragdoll Likes: Tickles under the chin and strangely enough, loves water!; Dislikes: Being on her own; Owner: Emili Staddon; From: Birchgrove

Name: Sali; Age: 6; Breed: Boxer; Likes: Long walks to the beach and chasing squirrels ; Dislikes: White vans and baths; Owner: Steve and Vicky; From: Newton

Name: Hari Llewellyn Jones; Age: 5 months; Breed: Cockapoo; Likes: Sleeping and cwtches; Dislikes: The Hoover; Owner: The Llewellyn Jones family From: Ammanford

Bridge Street, Neath,West Glamorgan. SA11 1RP Tel: 01639 641111 • www.zoarsark.co.uk

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24/02/2017 10:43

SPRING INTO ACTION IN 2017 ! FREEFALLING AT 120MPH OVER GOWER.

CHARITY TANDEM SKYDIVES & GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE. FILMING & PHOTO OPTIONS.

Swansea Airport, Fairwood, Swansea SA2 7JU Tel: 01792 207035 / 07779019655 info@skydiveswansea.co.uk / www.skydiveswansea.co.uk Open Weekends, Bank Holidays and some Friday afternoons. Weight and health restrictions do apply. Please contact us for further details.

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23/02/2017 19:59:42

TIME FOR YOU

HOROSCOPES Your forecast for the month of February...

LIBRA

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

When passion comes calling it is hard to keep a cool head. Still, no need to break the bank when what is needed is just your company. Did I say ‘just’? Putting the most romantic efforts into the weekend can see a whole change in your direction. Will you be celebrating? A long-awaited breakthrough builds confidence and gives fuel to the fire in your heart.

Speaking to friends and colleagues helps to clear up a puzzle. There is, after all, no substitute for experience! A younger member of the family has something to celebrate and needs your full encouragement. Indeed, giving praise where it is due becomes important as the week ends. A single-minded attitude may slow down personal progress but will greatly benefit others close to you.

A chance remark from a colleague or friend brings something sharply into focus. Perhaps an idea that fell by the wayside because of other commitments has now found its time? Open communications and develop a closer relationship with others. Make the time, this month, to take some new ideas on board. A ‘to-do’ list becomes essential as midweek arrives.

ARIES

TAURUS

A passionate time takes you back and could even stop you in your tracks. Could efforts made in the past to attract someone finally be paying off? Resist the urge to play it cool when you know what you want. There seems little point in denying that you feel a surge of happiness. They say everything comes to he who waits. It isn’t always true but, in your case, have a lovely time this month.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

PISCES FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

Using your talents and creativity makes something happen this month. Imagine you had all the confidence possible. What would you be trying out right now? Is there any real reason you should not give it a go? There is so much to gain here. Look to your own resources to get ahead but also be willing to read and look for practical backup where needed.

Being a little bit crafty sets you ahead of the crowd. With your mind truly sharp, make the most of any chance to advance a plan. Some days small moves are all that is needed. Get a feel for what you are trying to do. Could your instinct play a part? You bet! Tempted to wear your heart on your sleeve Just make sure you are in the right place for it to be seen!

GEMINI

CANCER

MAY 22 - JUNE 21

JUNE 22 - JULY 22

Talking around a subject takes time and patience. However, just when you think that you are getting nowhere, a response comes. Finances seem tangled up with friends, perhaps due to a joint holiday plan. Be flexible when it comes to longer-term benefits and try to fit in. Things can change quickly and for the better if you remain flexible. New approaches can quickly alter the outcome.

Strong friendships and new colleagues at work set the tone for this forward-looking month. Suggestions from a friend for a change of direction are appealing. Getting down to the practical details, however, needs determination. Aim to bring romance into your life this weekend even if it means cancelling putting up those shelves or painting that ceiling!

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

Your enthusiasm for a pet plan or idea is great, but think carefully before you start going about it. There are some short cuts to use, especially if you can chat to someone who has been there before! Being patient where love is concerned is the way to get the best response from a partner. The more you care about a loved one, the more open they are able to be to your needs.

The atmosphere of support this month gives you the confidence needed to make an important move. Choose your words and actions carefully around someone who is currently being a little touchy. Giving up some of your leisure time is really appreciated by a family member. Business and other commitments could see you having to juggle between home and work.

LEO

VIRGO

JULY 23 - AUGUST 23 Naturally others are drawn to you because of your happy nature. Overall there seems to be a much bigger demand on your time than usual. This is extra effort worth making, especially for older relatives and friends. Although you are loved and appreciated, it is nice to be told so. This does not always happen but that does not mean you should be concerned about it.

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23 Progress in love can take you by surprise this month. Just when you thought you were running in a rut, along comes a novel situation! Could it be that someone who has been busy and distracted has noticed you at last? Keep their interest going by being enthusiastic and inventive. There is much to gain by pulling out all the stops and making that extra effort.

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24/02/2017 14:17:14

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24/02/2017 10:28:41

Hello gorgeous!

Name: Primrose Eira Smith-Froome Born: August 18, 2016 Parents: Claire Smith and Craig Froome From: Penlan

Name: Cadi Haf Richards; Born: March 1, 2016 Parents: Janine and Lee Richards From: Gorseinon

Name: Luca Christian Zenati Born: March 20, 2016 Parents: Elizabeth and Christian Zenati From: Gorseinon

Name: Anwen Eira Vallance; Born: October 16, 2016; Parents: Ian and Rachel Vallance From: Gowerton

Name: Aden Joseph Davies; Born: January 1, 2017 Parents: Claire and Ian Davies From: Loughor

Name: Susie Jayne O’Kelly Born: December 20, 2016 Parents: Jayne Davies and Nick O’Kelly From: Gorseinon

Meet Swansea Life’s new arrivals and toddlers...

Name: Lewis Cairns; Born: August 30, 2016 Parents: Lisa and Sion Cairns From: Pontarddulais

Name: Iestyn Harries; Born: October 4, 2016 Parents: Launa and Gethin Harries From: Loughor

We’d love to see your new arrivals. Send your pictures along with details to laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk x1 BabyPics_SLMAR17.indd 1

Name: Ca Parents: J From: Go

Name: Ffion Gwenllian Carter; Born: December 26, 2016; Parents: Matthew Carter and Angharad Wooldridge. From: Birchgrove

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23/02/2017 11:00

TIME FOR YOU

4 TIME FOR TEA

ARM CANDY! Talk about pretty as a Peacock! We love this new Kate Spade New York Peacock Watch which is the perfect stand out timepiece, £179, WatchShop.com

GINGHAM GIRL This cute as a button fabric is everywhere this season, including jewellery. We love this colourful necklace by Spanish Label Bimba y Lola, £115, www.bimbaylola.com

Tea for two, with Cath’s dog Billie! This novelty porcelain teapot and cups stack neatly on top of one another and are the perfect talking point over tea and cake. Billies Town House Tea For Two, £24, Cath Kidston, Cardiff

LUST FOR LIPPY

How fab would this look in your dressing room, ladies? This cerise lipstick ornament (yes it is an ornament!) is just one of the funky designs by Swedish glassmaker Asa Jungnelius. Other standout pieces include nail varnish pots, glass shoes, and lip ornaments… the perfect wow factor for your boudoir or dressing table. Kosta Boda Mini Lipstick Ornament in Cerise and Raspberry, £35, John Lewis, Cardiff

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DPS Wish List_SLMAR17.indd 1

23/02/2017 10:58

SETTING THE MOOD

BAG IT

Wake up with the gentle play of light and scent, or freshen your room with your favourite aromatherapy scent before you get home with the Dimplex DXAD100 Electronic Aroma Diffuser. One way to get you up in the mornings! £39.99, www.dimplex.co.uk

How cute is this patent, pastel stripe bag? Very Jackie O! Therapy London, £45,House of Fraser, Cardiff

SWANSEA LIFE’S

WISH LIST! Laura Davies’ pick of this month’s most wanted... laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

@LawsDx

PRICKLY HEAT Cue the Cactus! This prickly plant will be everywhere this season especially in lighting. Add to your greenery collection with this quirky and retro fun stand out marquee wall light, £135, Debenhams, Swansea perfect for introducing a touch of character to your home.

SUPER STRIPES Stripes are having a spring makeover. We love the neckline of this top which oozes effortless glamour. £30, Asos.com

7 MATCHSTICK MAKER

VB COLLECTION

Add a quirky-cool feel to your repertoire in this unique asymmetrical hem midi skirt. In a red base, it comes with an all-over matchstick print. Matchstick Asymmetrical Midi Skirt, £39, Top Shop, Swansea

Victoria Beckham is now taking on the beauty world with her new collection for Estee Lauder. After it successfully sold-out last year, the limited make up collection is looking to fly off the shelves so be quick. We love Eye Foil - a liquid eyeshadow that delivers a high-shine, vinyl-like finish. Sparkling pearl pigments showcase flecks of foil for a liquid-metal effect, even after it has dried. Victoria Beckham Estée Lauder Eye Foil, £28, www.esteelauder.com

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23/02/2017 10:58

TIME FOR YOU ROLL WITH IT

LIGHT UP

Kindle Oasis E-reader with Black Leather Charging Cover, 6’’ High-Resolution Display (300 ppi) with Built-in Light, £269.99, Amazon

Kobo Aura eReader, 6” Illuminated Touch Screen, £99.95, John Lewis, Cardiff Take this Kobo on a sunny holiday and reading in the daylight won’t be a problem. The screen is glarefree, making beach or poolside reading a possibility, with the touchscreen ensuring turning the page is a doddle. On the flipside, reading in a dark room is also a breeze thanks to a solid front light and easy to adjust brightness settings.

At £269.99, the Kindle Oasis is considerably dearer than other e-readers on the market, but if you’re looking for an investment and are already accustomed to using a Kindle, this is a lovely piece of kit. Ease is the order of the day here, and with one half of the device slightly thicker than the other, the heft of the Kindle sits in your palm, making reading easier, especially if you’re doing so one-handed. A nice little touch is the leather case which boosts battery life every time you close it, and looks sleek too.

Kindle Paperwhite E-reader, 6” High-Resolution Display (300 ppi) with Built-in Light, Wi-Fi (Black), £109.99, Amazon Lighter than a paperback, this Kindle Paperwhite stores thousands of books and displays them in the new Bookerly font, which is easier to read, especially with the wide range of larger font sizes. There’s also an inbuilt light to aid bedtime reading and a word-builder function to add interesting vocabulary. One charge should give you a month to six weeks’ worth of reading, presuming you read for half an hour every day.

BEST

IN YOUR GOOD BOOKS

OF THE

BRIGHT IDEA

e-readers

Curl up with a good book with the help of these e-readers... PETER SLEE checks out the best

VTech DigiGo Pink, £79.99, www.very.co.uk This VTech device puts children - and multifunctional use - at the forefront. Designed for 3-7year-olds, the DigiGo is a pocket-friendly - the screen is just 4.3inches - tablet capable of taking photos, hosting games and best of all, storing e-books. You can download books, videos and music from VTech’s own Learning Lodge. As well as this, children can use it to message smartphones.

READ ALL ABOUT IT

BOOK UP YOUR IDEAS

If you’re new to the world of e-readers - a world dominated largely by Amazon - this basic Kindle could be a good starting point. Not least because the screen is glare-free making lengthy sessions with your tome of choice easier on the eyes. At just 161g, the Kindle is portable and kinder on the hands if you’re planning on tackling some Tolstoy this year. As well as that, the battery lasts for a couple of weeks - providing you give it a full four-hour charge - so it’s an ideal travel companion.

If reading in the bathtub sums up perfect relaxation, this e-reader has your name on it. Obviously, dunking the Kobo Aura H2O into water for any length of time isn’t going do it any favours, but it is waterproof, sand-proof and dust-proof, making beachside - or desert-side - reading less precarious. You can store up to 3,000 books on the device and each charge should give you 1,400 hours of reading pleasure.

Kindle E-Reader, 6” Glare-Free Touchscreen Display, Wi-Fi (Black), £59.99, Amazon

Kobo Aura H2O Waterproof E-Reader, £129.99 from £139.99, Argos, Swansea

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24/02/2017 10:45

Relax..

Dine..

Stay..

Set in the center of a 650 acre privately owned estate with a commanding position over the upper reaches of the DauGleddau river Estuary, deep in the heart of the Pembrokeshire National Park.

We offer a relaxed and ‘’Graceful’’ dining experience supplemented by ‘’Good old Fashioned’’ Pembrokeshire hospitality.

All our rooms have Egyptian cotton sheets and king size double/twin beds by Savoir, the ultimate in luxurious Mattresses and have ‘’John Masters’’ Organic toiletries, Ironing facilities, Welsh cakes and Bara brith Tea cakes.

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NEXT MONTH IN SWANSEA LIFE

372

Irresistible New Looks & Ideas for your home Chef! What to cook and how to cook it with The Grove’s Allister Barsby Glamour fashion... It’s back! Shopping haul: New season finds OUT April 4

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24/02/2017 13:57

ESCAPE THE ORDINARY Escape the hustle of everyday life at Mulberry House. No ordinary cottage. Book now.

oldwallsgower.com | T: 01792 391468 | E: enquiries@oldwallsgower.com

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Discover the

Diamond Bouquet V ISI T US IN STOR E TO V IE W T HE W HOL E COL L EC T ION

5 Queens Arcade, Quadrant Shopping Centre, Swansea, SA1 3QW | 01792 462999

stephenhughesfinediamonds.com

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15/12/2016 14:52:40 13/12/2016 16:37