Swansea Life October 2017. by Sam Moon

W I N N ER ! U K RE G I O N A L M A G A Z I N E O F T H E Y E A R

SWA NSE A

LIFE www.swansealife.co.uk

october 2017 Â£2.95

HOUSE

& GARDEN S P EC I A L

Frightful Tastes & Treats for Halloween

Inspiring real life stories

AUTUMn edition 9 771750 843018

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The

new season looks for you and your home

Combining old-world charm with 21st century cool, this is Fairyhill, but not as you know it. As we toast to our future we welcome you to start yours with us. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to new beginnings.

Oldwalls, a collection of luxury wedding venues Wedding Showcase at Fairyhill & Oldwalls Gower Sunday 15th October, 12pm - 5pm oldwallscollection.com

Contents... O C T O B E R

2 0 1 7

FASHION 14. GOTHIC GLAMOUR Gets into the spirit of Halloween with a bit of black magic 24. HIGH STREET HOTTEST Keep up to date with this season’s High Street Styles 26. WOODLAND WONDERLAND Stylish, comfy casuals which look oh, so, snuggly!

SWA NSE A

HAIR & BEAUTY

LIFE EDITOR Laura Davies | 01792 545523 @LawsDx | laura.davies@trinitymirror.com PUBLISHER Lisa Cameron | lisa.cameron@trinitymirror.com PHOTOGRAPHY Adrian White, Jonathan Myers, Gayle Marsh, Hoosh Arabi, Steve Phillips, Robert Melen CONTRIBUTORS Lara Johnson & Dom Capel, Lesley Taylor, Richard Hammond, Sian Day, Victoria Wade, Joseph Atkin, Andrew Morgan, Emma Jenkins, Dr. Charlotte Jones, Chris Howells, James Richards, Marc White, Georgia Davies and Chris Peregrine

14 39. BEAUTY NEWS What is launching in October 42. CATWALK INSPIRED BEAUTY TRENDS... ...with a different spin for the new season

42 HEALTH & WELLBEING

46. NAIL DISASTERS... ...and how to avoid them

58. FOOD BENEFITS The health benefits of benefits of pumpkin seeds 60. WHEN TO WORKOUT When is the best time to exercise?

Swansea Life, Urban Village, High Street, Swansea, SA1 1NW @swansealife Email: laura.davies@trinitymirror.com www.swansealife.co.uk If we have published anything that is factually inaccurate, please contact the editor on 01792 545533, at postnews@mediawales.co.uk or at Evening Post, Urban Village, 220 High Street, Swansea, SA1 1NW and once verified we will correct it here as soon as possible. Swansea Life is part of Local World, which is owned by Trinity Mirror PLC, which is a member of IPSO, the Independent Press Standards Organisation. We adhere to the Editors’ Code Of Practice as enforced by IPSO, who are contactable for advice at Independent Press Standards Organisation, Gate House, 1 Farringdon Street, London. EC4M 7LG. Website: http://www,ipso.co.ukTelephone: 0300 123 2220; email advice@ipso.co.uk If you have a complaint concerning a potential breach of the Code of Practice, we will deal with your complaint directly or IPSO can refer your complaint to us. Please go to http://www.trinitymirror. com/howtocomplain where you can view our Complaints Policy and Procedure. A “How To Complain” pack is also available by writing to the Legal and Compliance Department, Trinity Mirror PLC, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AP.

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.

4 swansealife.co.uk

62. DR CHARLOTTE All you need to know about giving blood

138

HOUSE & HOME 104. HOME TRENDS Three of the hottest new autumnal decor trends 138. TICK TOCK Timeless time peices 148. SHADES OF GREY ...and why this colour is never dull

BRIDE

WHAT’S ON

68. REAL LIFE WEDDING The wedding of Carly Tucker and Ceri Williams

196. DIARY DATES What’s on in October... and there is lots!

70. WE LOVE Wedding inspiration we want

198. MUST HAVES Our favourite books and events

72. ARRIVE IN STYLE The perfect way to make an entrance

200. BIG INTERVIEW We talk to the leading lady of Sunset Boulevard, Ria Jones

172 GREAT ESCAPES

SOCIAL DIARY

172. MUNICH ...a taste of Germany

204. LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION Kev Johns host a charity event

174. DOWN TO A TEE A weekend break at Mottram Hall 175. 24 HOURS AT... ...Premier Inn, Manchester

OUT & ABOUT

234

178. RAMBLING Andrew Morgan takes a walk

121 78

210. LADIES DAY ...at Ffos Las Racecourse

204 MOTORING SOCIAL 185. DRIVETIME DIARY The new Peugeot 3008

212. A FESTIVAL OF FIZZ The UK’s first ever Prosecco Festival

185 234

214. HEAD Phphphp hphp hphp hphp

180. JOIN US.. ...in backing Swansea for UK City of Culture 2021 182. 21 REASONS WHY... Swansea should win UK City of Culture 2021

200

182

221. HEAD Phphphp hphp hphp hphp phphphphphphp 226. HEAD Phphphp hphp hphp hphp phphphphphphp

FOOD & DRINK

TIME FOR YOU

78. EATING OUT Dining out at Tycoch Square’s Bluebell

222. EDDIE’S VIEW Attends Kev Johns very first charity event

84. A TASTE OF HOME Blogger Nathan Lloyd shares his recipes from his new home in Sweden

226. BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH We talk to mum-of-two Anna Thorburn being diagnosed with the disease

87. WE LOVE Halloween treats

226

232. PIN UP PETS Your pet pictures swansealife.co.uk 5

E D I TO R’ S L E T TE R

Welcome... ...to the October edition of Swansea Life where we celebrate the new season ahead and the changes that come with it! As the trees begin to display show-stopping shades of burnt orange, conker brown and ochre yellow, there’s really nothing nicer than wrapping up in cosy layers and taking that first crisp walk outside. That followed by heartwarming food and comfort treats, snuggled up in front of the fire, a very close second.

MARK REES

WHAT’S ON EDITOR 01792 545529 mark.rees@trinitymirror.com

So, this month, we are talking about everything from how to update your autumn wardrobe and beauty make-up bags, tasty hearty seasonal foods, and what to do in Swansea Bay over the next four weeks. Plus, we have a bumper home and garden special. For homeowners autumn is undoubtedly one of two key times in the year when we yearn to make décor changes that mirror the seasons. From the clean sweep of spring to the wrap-up-warm moods of autumn, we have plenty of inspiration and advice ready for the colder and darker nights around the corner. This month is also Halloween and we have a cauldron of tricks and treats for you! Whether it is spooky supermarket foods, to discovering the health benefits of eating pumpkins, gothic-inspired fashion and the best Halloween events for kids, we have it all covered.

DEBBIE ROBERTS

ADVERTISING MANAGER 01792 545626 debbie.roberts@trinitymirror.com

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month we have a selection of products you can buy, while also donating to the cause. But, even more inspiring, we meet Langland mum-of-two, Anna Thorburn, who bravely and honestly shares her experiences of being diagnosed with breast cancer, aged 35. While, she has now been given the all clear after a gruelling year, she talks about her highs and lows, including losing her breasts and having to tell her young children about her illness. She hopes sharing her story with others will help other women to fight this disease. This is a must-read! After all, it can potentially affect us all. So, here’s to Anna and all the people who have been affected in some way by cancer. Enjoy the read

JESSICA HAMMETT SOCIAL MEDIA/FEATURES laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

LAURA DAVIES 01792 545523 laura.davies@trinitymirror.com @LawsDx Find us on Facebook @SwanseaLife

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EDITOR COVER IMAGE: Jigsaw Melange London Aubergine Jacket, £199 and Trousers, £125, House of Fraser, Cardiff; Aubergine Fever Iris Blouse, £54.99, No39, Cowbridge; Hallhuber Beaded Choker with Grosgrain Ribbon, £29, House of Fraser, Cardiff

SAM JONES

GRAPHIC DESIGNER 01239 460210 sam@yourlocalcrowd.co.uk

Swansea lives

STRADEY

OUR PICK OF THE MONTH’S BEST PARTY GET-TOGETHERS (FROM PAGE 203)

PARK HOTEL & SPA 

207 MAGGIE’S WALK

204

LIGHTS, CAMERA, AUCTION!

19TH OCTOBER 17 AT 7PM

208

SWANSEA BAY TOP 100 BUSINESS AWARDS

Dress to

Impress Tickets £30pp

210 LADIES DAY AT FFOS LAS

212 PROSECCO FESTIVAL

FASHION SHOW with

Stradey Park Hotel & Spa and Lou Lou Boutique, Pyle present a fashion show with a difference.... • Drinks on arrival. • Exciting catwalk show hosted by Lou Lou. • Delicious three course Welsh themed meal. • Chat with our Welsh rugby wives panel, compèred by Welsh TV presenter, Rhodri Davies. A tribute to dear friend at Ray Gravell and friends charitable trust. Profits on the night go towards the Oncology Unit at Prince Phillip Hospital, Llanelli.

2 18 CAPPACCINO GIRLS

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

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Fashion

FASHION FLASH (page 13) GOTHIC GLAMOUR (page 14) HIGH STREET HOTTEST (page 24) KIDS FASHION (page 34)

MuMbles

Clever Clothes at Sensible Prices We are looking forward to showing you our new Autumn / Winter Collections of jackets, knitwear and coordinates in sizes 10-20. Stockists of Frandsen of Denmark. 516 Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea, SA3 4BU 01792 366133

CALLING MUMS-TO-BE

FA S H I O N F L A S H We love Katie Piper’s latest debut maternity collection with e-retailer Want That Trend.Com. It consists of 26 pieces in a variety of block colour ways, prints and vibrant tones in sizes 6-18. Items within the collection include skater, bodycon, wrap over and midi dresses, along with a mix of T-shirts and jumpsuits. Pictured: Red Tea Dress, £24.95, www. wantthattrend. com (£1 from the sale of each dress will be donated to The Katie Piper Foundation, to support their great work with burns survivors.)

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

@LawsDx

Lorna Jane Vital Sports Bra, £55; Pipeline Core F/L Leggings, £85, www.lornajane.co.uk

STUDDED

FASHION

Head to Moda for these stylish black suede stud detailed boots from Guess’ AW17 range. £179, Moda, The Kingsway, Swansea

GET THE LOOK

GET FIT!

Rock n’ roll celestial, this slide bracelet is rhodium plated and features a lightning bolt and star studded with Swarovski crystals

Karl Lagerfeld Jewellery Ladies’ Silver Plated Ikonik Star & Lightning Sslide bracelet £67, WatchShop.com

STARGAZER Reach for the stars with these twinklers.

Shine Like a Star Embroidered Pumps, £32, Cath Kidston, Cardiff Black Star Print Embellished Bag, £19.99, New Look, Swansea

EYE-CATCHING JEWELS

We love these eye-catching, colourful and Victorian-styled pieces by Thomas Sabo. Adorned with filigree stones, the jewellery items, which are 925 Sterling Silver and 18k rose gold plating, enchants thanks to its royal look. There are also other pieces in this gorgeous collection. Thomas Sabo Bracelet, £179, Thomas Sabo Ring, £159, Stephen Hughes, available from Swansea Quadrant

Iris Star Jean, £59, Monsoon, Parc Trostre

ELECTRIC!

The countdown is on to the festive season, which means plenty of parties, and endless drinking and eating. Get fit and hopefully shed a few pounds at the same time by getting back into fitness. And to help.. fab gym kit from Aussie brand Lorna Jane. Bright stripes and pretty prints alongside basics in black and grey make the AW17 collection easy to mix and match with your existing workout wear.

Jumper, £109, M&S, Swansea Star Print Skirt, £35, River Island, Swansea and Parc Fforestfach

Fresh from London Fashion Week’s SimplyBe Curve Catwalk is this stunning red ruffle one shoulder scarf tie top. And at £29, it’s a snip. For your catwalk copy visit SimplyBe.co.uk

GET INSTA-TALL Look up to 1.5 inches taller with Get Long Legs secret insoles which add height, improve posture and lengthen legs in an instant. Simply slide them into your work shoes, stilettos or trainers to instantly boost your height and your confidence. They are 100 per cent washable, non-toxic, and are odour-free. £24, www.getlonglegs.com

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FASHION Earrings, £10, River Island, Swansea

Heels, £58, River Island, Parc Trostre

C I H T GO

ck, omsti o r b e th een banish ted Hallow to d n a t ha ts in stica witch’s ore sophi DAVIES ge agic e h t km Ditch here is a m t. LAURA f blac o t e it v sDx b o c @Law m with a me to it r irror.co u i m t y p s it s in o tr c the vies@ ura.da la

Black Lace Top with Tie Sleeve, £39, Miss Selfridge, Swansea

Star by Julien Macdonald, £39, Debenhams, Swansea

Gemstone Lace Top, £24.99, New Look, Morfa Retail Park Skirt, £45, River Island, Parc Fforestfach and Swansea

Black Sateen Asymmetrick Hem Skirt, £24.99, New Look, Parc Fforestfach Black Furry Brooch Mini Bag, £7.99, New Look, Swansea

Lois Drouser, £179, Coast, Cardiff

14 swansealife.co.uk

Sena Stripe Skirt, £89, Debenham, Swansea

Scarf, £39.50, M&S, Swansea

V by Very Sequin Bow Detail Mule, £42, Very.co.uk

Black Cross Over Dress, £24.99, TK Maxx, Morfa Retail Park

Choker, £14, River Island, Parc Fforestfach

R U O M A L G

Suede Lace Bow Choker, £7, Accessorize, Swansea

Dress, £45, M&S, Swansea

Jumpsuit, £65, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Mood Choker, £14, Debenhams, Swansea Sequin Palazzo Trousers, £60, Simplybe. co.uk

Black Oriental Drop Earrings, £6.99, New Look, Swansea

Helena Lace Dress, £169, Monsoon, Parc Trostre

Black Jewel Knit, £42, Wallis at Outfit, Parc Trostre

Black Polka Dot Mesh Sleeved Dres, £50, Evans, Swansea

V by Very High Neck Star Blouse, £42, Very.co.uk Carousel, £99, Dune, Cardiff

Cape Jumpsuit, £119, House of Fraser, Cardiff Victoria Lace Top, £69, Monsoon, Parc Trostre

Black Puffed Sleeve Dress, £110, Top Shop, Swansea

swansealife.co.uk 15

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Dressed to

Pageant queen Kelly Rowland swapped a career in scrap metal for a life selling beautiful dresses. JENNY WHITE met her at her new shop, 102 Couture in Sketty.

When it comes to choosing stunning dresses, Kelly Rowlands really knows a thing or two: the multiple pageant winner has previously taken the title of Miss Intercontinental Wales, won second place in Miss Wales, and third place in Miss Universe GB. She’s also about to compete in Miss European this autumn. “I started entering pageants as a confidence booster,” she says.“I used to be really shy, and would never smile in public - so I thought that if I could smile in front of a whole bunch of people, that would be good for me

– and then I fell in love with pageants. It’s a perfect excuse to travel and wear beautiful dresses.”

shop to get to know the business, and now I’ve re-launched it as 102 Couture.”

Earlier this year she was offered another opportunity to indulge her love of dresses by taking over the Stardust dress shop on Eversley Road, Sketty. She had just been made redundant from her job as a scrap metal weighbridge operator, so the opportunity could not have come at a better time.

The shop, which takes its name from its address (102 Eversley Road) has been totally transformed and now sports a fresh white and silver colour scheme, sparkling chandeliers and gleaming mirrors.

“It just all fell into place,” she says. “Since January I have worked in the

“I wanted to make it my own – it was very intense work getting it all ready, and now it’s wonderful to be in a position to welcome customers as the owner of the shop,” says Kelly.

During recent months she has found her pageant experience hugely valuable in helping each customer find the perfect dress. “I’m able to help customers choose dresses that will really help them stand out from the crowd, and I give them tips on how to wear the dresses, and how to walk in them – which can be a bit challenging if you haven’t worn that kind of dress before,” she says. “Working in the shop for the past few months has also taught me a lot about what customers want.” Kelly’s dresses come from sought-after brands, many of which are hard to find elsewhere in the region. They include Dynasty, Forever Unique and Angel

Forever from the UK; Loré from Spain; and Mac Duggal, Terani and Jovani from the US. The dresses are perfect for pageants, proms and special occasions, including weddings (she stocks some beautiful white gowns and countless dresses that are ideal for bridesmaids). In response to customer demand, she now stocks cocktail dresses too. “I also have bags and jewellery from Angel Forever and jewellery from Krystal – so you can create a complete outfit,” says Kelly, who loves her new role. “It’s especially nice when you get someone in who is a bit self conscious to start with, but after an hour with them their confidence grows and you get to know the person. It’s always lovely to see final result,” she says.

102-104 Eversley Road, Sketty, Swansea SA2 9DB Tel: 07508 859024 | www.102couture.com

FASHION Scarf, £25 , River Island, Swansea

E TH

CHECK MATE

J by Jasper Conran Coat, £140, Jacket, £65, Top, £25, Debenhams, Swansea

Studio by Preen Skirt, £55, Debenhams, Swansea

SUIT

Tie Neck Check Blouse, £30, Very.co.uk

It’s the print that never goes out of fashion. Whether its low key grey check or a bright large tartan print, LAURA DAVIES checks the latest High Street trend out laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Shirt, £40, River Island, Parc Fforestfach

J by Jasper Conran Dress, £59, Debenhams, Swansea and Parc Trostre

Studio by Preen Skirt, £55, Debenhams, Swansea

Heritage Check Hacking Jacket, £28, Check Skirt, £18, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

18 swansealife.co.uk

AT CO

Blue Check Ruffle Shirt, £22.99, New Look, Morfa Retail Park

One Shoulder Stop, £35, River Island, Swansea

Check Blouse, £14, George at Asda, Gorseinon and Llanelli

THE TAIL OR E

Mono Checked Coat, £75, Next Morfa Retail Park

TROUS

E R

E TH

IT SU

Check Skirt, £14, George at Asda, Parc Trostre Check Kilt, £18, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Grey Check Suit Trousers, £28, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

Checked Mini Skirt, £24 , Next, Parc Trostre

Check Metallic Mini Skirt, £59.50, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

HE C K E SS

Trousers, £45, Debenhams, Swansea

Autograph Jacket, £79, Autograph Trousers, £45, M&S Collection Body, £18, Earrings, £9.50, Bag, £35, Shoes, £35, M&S, Swansea

Trousers, £45, River Island, Swansea

Check Dress, £95, TopShop, Swansea

Harri POW Trouser, £55, Monsoon, Parc Trostre

Trousers, £40, River Island, Parc Fforestfach

swansealife.co.uk 19

FASHION

the

WORKWEAR shoe edit

LAURA DAVIES picks out her top shoes to wear 9 to 5 laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Kitten Heel Slingbacks, £36, Next, Swansea 1. Blue Slingback, River Island, £50, Swansea, 2. Alice Flat, £139, Hobbs at John Lewis, Cardiff, 3. Cassandra, £70, Dune, Cardiff 4. Clarks Chinaberry Leopard Court Shoe, £82, Littlewoods.co.uk, 5. Black Leather Kitten Heel Shoes £17.99, New Look, Swansea 6. M&S Collection Shoe, £35, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre, 7. My Girl, £62, Office, Swansea, 8. Stud Loafer, £10, Primark, Swansea 9. Right, from top, White Pointed Sliingback, £35, Miss Selfridge, Swansea, 10. Guilt Red, £75, Dune at Debenhams, Swansea 11. Heels, £32, Debenhams, Swansea, 12. Silver Court J by Jasper Conran, £59, Debenhams, Swansea, 13. V By Very Velvet Loafer with Gold Trim, £25, Very.co.uk, 14. Red Slingback, M&S Collection Shoe, £29.50, M&S, Swansea, 15.Pointed Flats, £30, Next, Morfa Retail Park 20 swansealife.co.uk

, PrettyLitt , £50 leT hin oat C g h c

.uk .co

Longline Belted ige Tre Be n

FASHION

by dio Stu

benhams, Swa , De nse 120 a ,£

INVEST

Erin Trench Coat, £90, River Island, Parc Fforestfach and Swansea

Preen Trenc hC oa t

Oversized Gingham Checked Trench Coat, £59, Miss Selfridge, Swansea

IN A TRENCH

If autumn calls for one thing, it’s an in-betweener coat, something that will keep the chill at bay without weighing you down - and the trench coat is the obvious answer. This autumn, the humble trench has been reworked in a multitude of colours, cuts and fabrics, so you can find one that’s practical and trendy, too. Take your pick from LAURA DAVIES’ pick of edgy trenches that will give your autumn wardrobe the boost it needs. laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Breasted Tre uble nch Do Co Rainbow Denim

Tre n

Very.co.uk 55, ,£ at

59.99, Bonprix at, £ .co Co m ch

Waterfall Trench Jacket, £45, Jdwilliams.co.uk

Principles by Ben de Lisi Trench Coat, £69, Debenhams, Swansea

swansealife.co.uk 21

FASHION

RED

TROUSER SUITS

Michael Kors Coat, £395; Biba Jacquard Oriental Boxy Shell Top, £69, and Trousers, £69, all House of Fraser, Cardiff

This is workwear, yes, but not as we’ve previously known it. Suiting is now slouchy, mannish and worn with trainers, as decreed by Celine, Stella McCartney and Vetements. A double-breasted blazer should be priority number one, preferably in a grey or brown heritage check (give black a rest for a while).

AUT U

Harry Pow Jacket, £79, and Trousers, £55, Monsoon, Parc Trostre

INTER W / N MWhat a season we’ve

trends

got to look forward to. The AW17 catwalks gave us heaps of ideas for revamping our cold-weather wardrobes and the high street has really delivered with the autumn/ winter collections. LAURA DAVIES looks at the key trends of the season. Silver Boots, £44.99, New Look, Morfa Retail

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Yellow Jacket, £92, River Island, Swansea and Parc Fforestfach

SEVENTIES

EIGHTIES BOOTS

22 swansealife.co.uk

The undisputed colour of AW17, RED cropped up on so many catwalks we lost count. Roksanda went for oxblood and crimson, at Prada it was pure scarlet, while Victoria Beckham and Molly Goddard plumped for brightest tomato. From cosy coats to bombshell dresses and Fendi’s showstopping latex midi skirt, whatever you wear this season, make sure it’s red. Michael Kors Coat, £395; Biba Jacquard Oriental Boxy Shell Top, £69, and Trousers, £69, all House of Fraser, Cardiff

CARDIGANS

The most talked about footwear of AW17 fashion month? It’s got to be Saint Laurent’s blinged-out, crystal-covered slouch boots, and at just £6,855 you’ll obviously want a pair... Well, maybe not. New Look’s £45 homage, however? Now that’s what we call a bargain.

Marc Jacobs was at the front of the Soul Train trend for AW17, sending out fabulous wide-collared coats in cord and suede. Mulberry and Chloe followed suit with wallpaper prints and a palette of mustard, ochre, crimson and camel. Equal parts cosy and cool, this is one trend that’s autumnal in every sense.

Roksanda AW 2017

Yes, really. The knit that has been decidedly out of vogue for years is back and better than ever. At Miu Miu, snug cardis were cinched in with skinny belts, while Christopher Kane went oversized - in green, pink, grey and a gorgeous shiny silver - lending a bit of librarian cool (yes, that is a thing) to pretty midi frocks.

FLORALS

The trees may soon be bare but your wardrobe can still bloom this winter if you take your cue from Mulberry, Erdem, Preen and Simone Rocha, where dark petal prints abounded. Midi dresses suit this trend well but for extra style points, opt for a trouser suit in a textured flower print. Jacquard Jacket, £159.99, and Trousers, £119.99, Navabi.co.uk

Mulberry AW17

WE LOVE...

BRIGHT SPARK

... these cute, pearl, studded earrings by Karl Lagerfeld. Designed in the shape of Karl’s Choupette, they are a playful addition to your jewellery box. Plus they will be perfect for Halloween. Pair with the matching ring and necklace for extra style points. Karl Lagerfeld Jewellery Ladies’ Silver Plated Pearl Choupette Earrings, £59, WatchShop.com

Banish the winter blues with this yellow coat. It is perfect for brightening up a dull, dreary day and will ensure you standout in the crowd as well as looking super stylish. Forget black, this is my go-to coat for Christmas. Coat, £80, River Island, Swansea

THIS MONTH

WE LOVE LAURA DAVIES rounds up some of her favourite products this month

SHIRT

You won’t get bored with M&S’ new season shirts and blouses. Give it a ruffle, or statement sleeve, or decorative collar. The new shirts and blouses have every style covered. We love this cobalt blue Collection Shirt, £35, M&S, Swansea

PURPLE PRAISE Discover Michael Kors’ new palette of rich, regal purples to revive your wardrobe this autumn. The colourblocked purple Mercer crossbody is a particular favourite and also come in a beige colour. Mercer Color-Block Leather Crossbody, £225, Michael Kors, Cardiff

BLING QUEEN We love Jon Ricard’s new jewellery collection for autumn/winter. This necklace is top of our list and there are also matching jewellery and other styles to choose from. Bonus! Jon Ricard, £80, Debenhams, Swansea

@LawsDx

WARMERS

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

The weather is starting to get colder, and it’s nearly time to get out the hats and scarves. If you need a new season update, these are top of my list. Black Knitted Pom Pom Scarf, £17.99, and Hat, £7.99, New Look, Swansea

LET YOUR T-SHIRT SAY IT ALL

FASHION

Party Animal Slogan Tee, £14; Glitter Black Pencil Skirt, £24; Black Feather Stiletto Heels, £32; Purple Velvet Glitter Mini Box Bag, £22; Dorothy Perkins, Swansea You can’t help notice the number of slogan tees on the High Street since they were all over the catwalks this season. Okay, so a few are a bit naff, but if you are looking to be a bit quirky, find a slogan for you. They look great teamed with a skirt and trainers for a trendy, I just-threwit-on look or wear with your favourite pair of jeans.

ROUND OF APPLAUSE.. Let your feet do the talking with these stunning embroidered gold and red heel boot. Applause Boots, £88, Office, Swansea

I WANT IT! Velvet is huge for autumn and we WANT this black flower-print blazer from Oasis. Embroidered Velver Blazer, £70, Oasis at Outfit, Parc Trostre swansealife.co.uk 23

FASHION 1

4 5

1. RJR.John Rocha Dress, £99 2. Principles by Ben de Lisi Bag, £49 3. Studio by Preen Blouse, £39 4. H! by Henry Holland Top, £35 5. J by Jasper Conran Skirt, £49 7 6. Star by Julien Macdonald Dress, £59 7. J by Jasper Conran Dress, £65 8. J by Jasper Conran Earrings, £12 9. Faith Boot, £69

HIGH STREET HOTTEST

LAURA DAVIES shops this season’s High Street styles

1. Coat, £199 2. Top, £39.99 3. Yellow Puffa, £39.99 4. Bracelet, £24.99 5. Zip Studio Top, £39.99 7 6. Jumper, £19.99 7. Skirt, £69.99 8. Dress, £119 9. Skirt, £49.99 10. Boots, £29.99

8 laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

9 10

24 swansealife.co.uk

4 5 6

4 1. Red Velvet Frill Jacket, £79 2. Carrie Print Coat, £129 3. Flora Embroidered Sleeve Jumper, £69 4. Embroidered Top, £59 5. Odette Dress, £99 6. Jane Jacquard Dress, £99 7. Vivian Velvet Red, £35 8. Elsa Embroidered 7 Boot, £79

1. Pink Puffa Coat, £79 2. Pink Waterfall 5 Coat, £65 3. Navy Lace Top with Tie Frill Sleeve, £36 4. Blush Metallic Knit, £38 5. Black Admiral Leather Jacket, £199 6. Purple Velvet Dress with Statement Sleeve, £45 7. Teal Polo Neck Jumper with Frill Sleeve, £30 8. Gold Drape Pointed Boots, £55 9. Red Heels, £45

1. Stila Bow Sleeve Blouse, £59, Coated Black Jean, £69 2. Carminta Pocket Coat, £179 3. Lia Tassel Statement Earrings, £19 4. Ava Flared Lace Sleeve Knit Top, £94 5. Delores Velvet Dress, £149 6. Karyn Drummer Boy Jacket, £99 7. Kris Maxi Dress, £169 8. Louella Blouse, £89 9. Iris Print Skirt, £129 10. Mizuna Jacquard Boots, £75

swansealife.co.uk 25

OODLAND ONDERLAND

Take an autumn stroll and brush off those post-summer blues with LAURA DAVIES’ pick of stylish, comfy casuals which look oh, so, snuggly! laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Mint Velvet Jacket, £129 and Jeans, £79, Whistles Parker, £189, Stefanel Scarf, £115, all House of Fraser, Cardiff

26 swansealife.co.uk

Stefanel High-Neck Sweater, £225, and Stefanel Trousers, £125, House of Fraser, Cardiff; Tan Fringed Tote, £249.95, Jon Ian, Cowbridge

Hallhuber Jeans, £99, Hallhuber Floral Print Winter Scarf, £39; Mint Velvet Rose Gold Boxy Knit, £89, all House of Fraser, Cardiff

28 swansealife.co.uk

Masai Tracy Coat, £229, and Amazing WomanJeans, £70, Loulou Boutique, Pyle; Bow Neck; Blouse in Cream Silk, £340.99 Cocoplum, Cowbridge; Hallhuber Pearl Necklace with Ribbon Fastener, £29 and Black Hat, £39, House of Fraser, Cardiff; Castana High Boots,£139.95, Jon Ian, Cowbridge

swansealife.co.uk 29

Deck Polo Neck Top, £36, Long Waistcoat, £105, Tempest Chain Bag, £48, all Loulou Boutique, Pyle; Stefanel Trousers, £125, House of Fraser, Cardiff; Castana Boots, £139.95, Jon Ian, Cowbridge

Jigsaw Scarf, £50; Hallhuber Petrol Jacket, £169; Mint Velvet Top, £45; Mint Velvet Jeans, £79, all House of Fraser, Cardiff; Aubergine Lace-Up Velvet Boots, £259.95, Jon Ian, Cowbridge

swansealife.co.uk 31

Fur-Lined Jacket, Â£450, Jon Ian, Cowbridge

32 swansealife.co.uk

Max and Moi Gilet, £399, Max Mara Jeans, £187.95, Max and Moi Blouse, POR, all Jon Ian, Cowbridge

ART DIRECTION Brian Brown 01792 301901 www.briandbrown.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Justin Harris 01792 898544 justinharrisphotography.co.uk PRODUCER Lisa Walsh 029 2024 3823 lisa.walsh@mediawales.co.uk STYLIST Jasmin 07970 013468 HAIR Vanilla Rooms, Cardiff 029 2076 4344 MAKE-UP Shevan McKenna @shevanmakeup email info@makeupbyvaun.com 07789 007 657

Shot on Location at New House Country Hotel, Thornhill, Cardiff To discuss bespoke wedding packages call 029 2052 0280 www.townandcountrycollective.co.uk

swansealife.co.uk 33

FASHION

kIDSWEAR Mantaray Raccoon Pocket Cardigan, £14, Debenhams, Swansea Baby Alannah Aqua Tweed Coat, £43, Monsoon, Parc Trostre Girls Fur Gilet, £18, M&Co, Cardiff

J By Jasper Conran Cold Shoulder Woven Dress, £32, Debenhams, Swansea

34 swansealife.co.uk

Cardigan, £14, River Island, Swansea

Floral Mary Jane Shoes, from £15, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Denim Dress, £13-£14, Next, Parc Trostre and Swansea

Caption

Coat, £20-£24; Dress Set, £12-£16; Trainers, £14 -£15, from George at Asda, Llansamlet and Parc Trostre

Catimini Girls Pom-Pom Coat, £68, House of Fraser, Cardiff

Cardigan, £9.99, H&M, Parc Fforestfach

LAURA DAVIES rounds up the latest kidswear fashion to hit the High Street in time for autumn

Blake Badges Tee, £13, Monsoon, Parc Trostre

@LawsDx

Camo Jumper from £5, Joggers from £6, George at Asda, Llanelli

J By Jasper Conran Mockable Top, £19, Debenhams, Swansea

Boys Mr Crocodile Jumper (3mths-5yrs), £9-£10, Matalan, Llansamlet

T-shirt from £9, Joggers from £12, M&Co, Cardiff

Baker By Ted Baker Coupe All Over Print Shirt, £22, Debenhams, Swansea

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Kenzo Boys Tiger and Friends Zip-Up, £96, House of Fraser, Cardiff

Khaki Army Print Jacket, £20, M&Co, Cardiff

Backpack, £10, George at Asda, Llanelli

Embroidered Long Sleeve Tee from £5, Badge Short Sleeve Tee from £5, Matalan, Parc Cwmdu and Llansamlet

Trainers, from £20, Next, Parc Trostre

swansealife.co.uk 35

Ruby Jacqs is your new style destination for the special Little person in your life

Nursery & Designer Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wear Boutique

At Ruby Jacqs we are extremely passionate and love what we do, with over 17 years experience in the Designer Children's wear business we hope this reflects in both the fabulous products and the high level of service you will receive when shopping with us. From Prams, Cribs and Clothing, Baby stuff galore, everything you are looking for you will find in our store.

We also offer a savings club allowing our customers to spread the cost on purchases.

Here at Ruby Jacqs we stock a wonderful range of designer brands including, Emile et Rose, Coco, Pretty Originals, Tutto Piccolo, A Dee, Mitch & Son, Satila of Sweden and many more. We have an extensive range of baby equipment from brands such as Bebecar, Babystyle, Cosatto, Mima, Ickle Bubba, My Babiie, Clair de lune, Eastcoast, Izziwotnot to name but a few.

rubyjacqs.co.uk 1, Sandy Bridge | 1 Pembrey Rd | Llanelli | SA15 3EU | Tel: 01554 227500

Hair &

beauty

BEAUTY NEWS (from page 39) PUCKER UP (page 44) WE LOVE IT! (page 45) BREAST CANCER BEAUTY(page 51)

Defy Time & Glow this Christmas with Dr Alan Jones at one of the UK’s most pioneering Medical Cosmetic Clinics

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) General Medical Council Registered Health Inspectorate of Wales Registered Clinic

Probably one of the most innovative Medical Cosmetic Clinic in the UK, where patients are treated with the utmost care and respect. The relaxed ambience puts even the most nervous patients at ease. Dr Alan’s skills and expertise are continually honed through regular training with world experts who are at the forefront of their field. His genuine and caring attitude is well matched by his friendly and attentive staff. It is easy to understand why patients return time and again, even after moving their homes half way across the world.

Defy Time

Medical Cosmetic Clinic

“This is Harley Street services on our Doorstep, but not their prices” ““I would like to say Dr Jones is the most caring individual, who gives professional personal advice, which is always in your best interest. A lovely, lovely person”. R, Feb 2017!”

From the simplest of procedures such as Thread Vein Removal, Muscle Relaxing Injections and Fillers, to Liposuction and the ground breaking Stem-Cell and Micro-Fat treatments, Dr Alan’s aim is to help you achieve a Natural Youthful Radiance.

466 Gower Road, Killay, Swansea SA2 7DZ • 01792 208466 • www.defy-time.co.uk • Private Car Park

F R E E P E R S O N A L & C O N F I D E N T I A L C O N S U LTAT I O N S

HAIR & BEAUTY

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

@LawsDx

PART ONE

VIVA LA JUICY Inspired by a world of frozen beauty, Viva La Juicy Glacé features fresh and “cool” notes like frozen mandarin, frosted cassis leaves, and pear sorbet. The elegant jasmine notes and lush fruits mingle with warm vanilla and smooth sandalwood to create a perfectly balanced scent that is perfect for any season. It comes in a gorgeous bottle with a powdery-pink feathered bow around the top. Viva la Juicy Glacé Eau de Parfum Spray, from £39-£70; (30ml, 50ml, 100ml) Viva la Juicy Glacé and Viva la Juicy Eau de Parfum Rollerball Duo 10ml, £9.99, Superdrug and Boots, Swansea

EXTRA STRENGTH

BEAUT Y NEWS MULTI-TASKING MASKING IN TWO MINUTES FLAT

Reveal a smoothed complexion with the power of bubbles. Introducing Clinique’s PepStart Double Bubble Purifying Mask, a refreshing, transformative cleansing gel mask that leaves skin deeply cleansed, perfectly purified and prepped for makeup. Within minutes, the unique formula begins to transform from a pink gel into a blanket of small white debrislifting bubbles. The energising bubbling sensation along with exfoliating ingredients work to lift away surface oil and dirt to reveal softer, smoother, makeup ready skin. £24, Debenhams, Swansea and Parc Trostre

If you are after a hair product that tames frizz while at the same time protects against humidity and heat for a glossy, silk smooth style, then this is it. Launching exclusively into Superdrug this month, John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Six Effects Serum, offers everything you and hair needs in one bottle. £6.99 , Superdrug, Swansea

Clarins 4-Colour Retractable Pen, £28, Boots and Debenhams, Swansea

BEAUTY PEN

Ultra Light Body Cream 200ml, £32, L’Occitane, Debenhams, Swansea

WHIPPED Here’s hydration like you’ve never felt it before. We love L’Occitane’s Shea Butter cream which has been whipped into a light, airy formula that melts on skin, leaving a soft-touch finish that lasts. This innovative mousse-like texture is both nourishing and light, leaving the skin feeling supple and comfortable and moisturised for up to 24 hours.

FREE YOUR SKIN

HALLOWEEN You can always rely on Lush to have a fab range of trick and treats at Halloween. Pop into the new Oxford Street Swansea store and you will be spellbound. We love the Little Pumpkin gift, £12.95, which includes a pink pumpkin bubble bar and pumpkin bath bomb. This pumpkin may be little but he means biz! Bathe by midnight in the glow of his charm with floral jasmine and pimento to warm. Our other favourites include Black Rose Lip Tint, £6.95, where charcoal black gives way to magenta when applied to the lips for a bright pink pout, and who can’t resist the Bewitched black cat bubble bar, £4.25 and Goth Fairy Shimmer Bar, £5.95. Lush, Swansea.

Ready to break beauty boundaries? Rimmel London introduces a new foundation and concealer that defy the norms of long-wear makeup. Lasting Finish Breathable Foundation and Lasting Finish Breathable Concealer deliver ultra-lightweight, flawless coverage with long-lasting staying power while still letting your skin breathe. Finally, a long lasting foundation that is super light on your skin that stays put all day and all night.

Clarins reinterprets the classic 4-colour pen, replacing biros with three eye liners and a lip liner to streamline your make-up bag. The retractable pen contains black and blue eye liners, a brown multi-use liner and a flattering nude lip liner that all contain The Clarins Plus, a complex of sunflower, jojoba and black acacia waxes providing the eyelids and lips with comfort all day long. We love the twist mechanism, which means you can do without a sharpener making application all the more easy and convenient.

MATTE OR SHINE Which one will you choose? Erborian offers two lip balms to its Lip Love collection, ROUGE FOR LIPS and MATTE FOR LIPS, two nourishing balms that tint and embellish the lips. Choose your finish according to your tastes: velvety and slightly rosy for a natural effect, or spiced up with a deep red and a glossy texture for a more dramatic look. £18 each, www.erborian.co.uk

Lasting Finish Breathable Foundation in 14 shades, £8.99, Lasting Finish Breathable Concealer, 6 shades, £6.49, Superdrug, Swansea

swansealife.co.uk 39

Defining beauty year after year...

! p o h s y t top beau

s e n o r u .with yo

10% off

when you first book online, facebook or our new app! Beauty Opening Time Fri - 9am - 9pm Sat - 9am - 5pm Sunbed Opening Times Monday - Friday 9am - 9pm Saturday - 9am - 5pm

Rated five stars on the

Good Salon Guide Lip Filler - Facial Treatments - Non Surgical Facelifts - Massage - Hydrafacial - Eye Treatments - LVL Lashes Manicure - Pedicure - Shellac - Gel Nails - Poly Gel Nail Extensions - Waxing - Sunbeds - Spray Tanning - Body Piercing - Permanent Make Up - Muscle Relaxant Injections - Restylane Fillers - Skin Peels - Microdermabrasion Laser Hair Removal - Teeth Whitening

Please call in to our Salon for full price list . or book online

01792 775558

www.swanseasunlounge.co.uk facebook.com/MorristonSunLounge Family run business. Est. 2000

52 Woodfield Street, Morriston, Swansea SA6 8BW

HAIR & BEAUTY

BEAUT Y NEWS PERFECT PALETTES

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

ORIGINS LAUNCHES AT M&S

W I T H L AU R A DAV I E S If you are looking for a new eyeshadow palette then look no further than Bobbi Brown. Christmas is an excellent time to invest in new makeup as often you get more value for your money, especially if its shades and products that you can use all year around. These three little beauties are ideal for taking you from day to night and are ideal for creating a smokey eye. We love Soft Smokey Shadow and Mascara Palette, £29.50, (top) Satin and Caviar Shadow and Longwear Gel Eyeliner Palette, £39.50; (middle) and Evening Glow Eye Shadow Palette, £35; Bobbi Brown, Debenhams, Swansea

Beauty brand Origins is now on sale in M&S! A range of the brand’s hero and best selling products will be available in M&S beauty departments and online. Not sure what to buy? A personal favourite is Ginzing Ultra-Hydrating Energy-Boosting Cream, £25. It’s your skin’s answer to a morning shot (or three) of espresso and packed full of moisture. It contains skin boosters such as nourishing coffee seed oil, caffeine and revitalising panax ginseng. Perfect for those colder month. M&S, Swansea

@LawsDx

PART TWO

SHOWER BURST Sass up your shower and get jiggy in cascading clouds of fluffy foam with Being Shower Burst, in five punchy, tropical, sweet or fruity flavours. Pump a small amount directly into your palm and watch as the colourful cleansing gel expands in seconds to form an out-of- control fluffy foam cloud. The bottles look super cool and with gels including Chilli Mango and Tonka Bean, Salted Caramel and Macadamia Shower Burst, or Water Lotus and Pomelo, you will be left feeling squeaky clean, super soft and smelling good enough to lick… or nibble! Being Shower Bursts, £7, Boots, Swansea

NEW GHD NOCTURNE COLLECTION In continuation from last season’s obsession with curls, AW17 is big on texture, with 80s-inspired looks taking centre stage on the catwalks. In response to these trends, ghd introduces the new ghd contour. Featuring advanced ceramic heat technology and multi-dimensional plates, with ghd contour you can add depth and bold texture to any look, to instantly enhance shape and volume. GHD Contour, £95, Unique Hair Design, Gorseinon

PERFECT BROWS

THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS

Christmas is not far away, and that means another year of fantastic beauty advent calendars. Yes, the beauty brands are upping their game this year. BareMinerals lovers will go dotty over its Box of Wonders’ Xmas Advent Calendar which launches on October 12 and features everything from skin care to lippies, mascaras to powders. £75, Debenhams, Swansea

We love Sisley’s new 3-in-1 pencil for intensified, redefined eyebrows with a perfect shape. The foam-tip coated with a universal shade highlighter powder enables the correct amount to be applied under the eyebrow, It comes in three shades for perfect brows. Phyto Sourcils Design (3 shades), £40 www.sisley-paris.co.uk An extra addition to the new range is Phyto-Sourcils Fix, a thickening and setting gel for eyebrows. This formula is enriched with nylon fibres and adds body to eyebrows, for an instant look of fullness. Shade 0 is completely invisible to tame eyebrows discreetly. White shades 1 and 2 subtly color eyebrows for an intensified look. Phyto Sourcils Fix (3 shades), £34, House of Fraser, Cardiff

PUCKER UP

Tom Ford lipstick lovers have a LOT to get excited about this month, as 40 new shades join the lip colour collection of cream and matte shades. For autumn, my personal favourite is Love Crime- a purple coloured lip. £40, John Lewis, Cardiff

Body Creme Collection. 3 x 50ml, £60 Cologne Collection 5 x 9ml, £75, (Lime Basil & Mandarin, Pomegranate Noir, English Pear & Freesia, Nectarine Blossom & Honey and English Oak & Redcurrant)

SNEAK PREVIEW We couldn’t resist giving you a sneak preview of Jo Malone’s Christmas collection which launches on October 26. These are just a few products on our wishlist. Christmas Cracker, £34, Jo Malone, Cardiff

HAIR & BEAUTY

No, not the bruised kind. This isn’t Halloween make-up, it’s about creating a seductive ‘morning after’ smudge, as seen at Elie Saab, Chloe and Molly Goddard. How? With lashings of jet-black eye pencil and powder shadow, then a hint of colour or shimmer to give a polished edge. Pur On Point Eyeliner Pencil in Heartless, £16, BeautyBay.com

It’s six months since the autumn/winter catwalk shows, which means the high street shops are now full of clothes inspired by the designer collections. It also means it’s time to experiment with the creative concepts the beauty pros came up with backstage at fashion week - and the good news is you might already have some of the tools needed to recreate these looks at home. In fact, there’s a good chance you do, because AW17 marks the return of some enduring - and very appealing ideas, though given a different spin for the new season. And if you don’t have what you need? Then we’ve got the product recommendations for you.

CATWALK-INSPIRED BEAUTY TRENDS THIS AUTUMNKE-UP laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

IN K

Red is dominating on the fashion front this season but in terms of beauty, the spectrum runs from darkest crimson to neon pink. It’s all about how you apply it take your cue from Giambattista Valli or Preen and dab on a wet, inky stain, or go for ultra-defined edges and matte colour like the girls at Chalayan and Christian Cowan. MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolour in High Drama, £17.50, MAC, Debenhams, Swansea

RED

P US

@LawsDx

This may sound like yet another rehash of the ‘no make-up make-up’ trend, but it’s not. It’s about using delicate apricot and peaches-and-cream shades to enhance your complexion and features. Max Mara and Marques’Almeida did it beautifully on the eyelids, while the flushed cheeks at Blue Marine and Salvatore Ferragamo were super flattering. MUA Blush Perfection in Riot, £3, Superdrug, Swansea

TO NOTHIN T G X

From make-up to hair and nails, AW17 brings back some enduring styles but with a different spin for the new season. LAURA DAVIES looks at the beauty trends that you can use now who lets us in on a few hair care secrets

NAIL ART

Sound the alarm: nail art is back. In a big way. OK, there were still plenty of short, nude nails on show, but the most exciting manis were found at Jeremy Scott (long red talons), Sophia Webster (frosted with sparkly tips), and Balenciaga and Marc Jacobs (logos painted on - so Nineties, of course). The easiest way to get the look? Stick on a handful of fakes, the more extravagant the better. Elegant Touch Opulence Ruby Royal, £8.95, FeelUnique.com

ROMANTIC REBELLION

As for hair, the words romantic and rebellious were quoted by many a H stylist to explain the tousled (verging A splash of aqua at on tangled), braided and waved Mary Katrantzou, thick red lines ‘dos seen at Antonio Berardi, at Oscar de la Renta and Prabal Alberta Ferretti, Mark Fast and Gurung, two-toned wings at Marco de Bora Aksu. Volume is key to Vincenzo - if it’s rainbow brights you’re create this undone look, so a after, there are plenty of eye make-up decent mousse is a must. options for autumn. Whether cream Bumble and Bumble or powder, the colour must be highly Thickening Full Form pigmented, but the application needn’t Mousse, £22, Boots, necessarily be precise - this is about Swansea freedom, not restriction. 3ina The Color Kajal 404, £8.95, 3ina.com

42 swansealife.co.uk

38 Ravenhill Rd, Swansea, SA5 5AW 01792 587444

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HAIR & BEAUTY

Nars Audacious Lipstick Louise, £25, John Lewis, Cardiff New to the Audacious Lipstick line-up for autumn are six punchy and pigmented shades, including Louise, a deep opaque blackberry.

wa n

Take the shortcut to an ombre lip with Smashbox’s clever triple-stacked stick. The technique takes a bit of getting used to (you have to turn it upside down to do the lower lip) and you’ll need a liner that matches the outermost shade to get a really clean outline, but the effect is gorgeous, and it’s still a whole lot easier than painting on three separate colours.

eL i

To n

@LawsDx

e Legendary Tri ple ox B

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

bre, £17.50, Boot s, S

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Whether you’re a glossy girl or an all-matte-everything type LAURA DAVIES has rounded up the lippies vying for a place in your make-up bag - and your heart - this autumn

PUCKER UP

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ed kR

Too Faced Melted Latex Liquified Lipstick Safe Word, £19, Debenhams, Swansea If it’s shine you’re after, it doesn’t get much glossier than this. Too Faced’s wet-look latex lippie comes in 16 succulent shades. We love the Barbie pink Safe Word.

ur Co

sm etic

s Ve lvet Matte L iq

Pur’s latest matte lipstick range comes in a palette that’s on the more muted side, but the formula is still highly pigmented and long-lasting. Pinkish-brown Oh Bae is our new daytime favourite.

ick, £16.50, D ipst eb en 2L

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Matte liquid lipsticks can sometimes feel thick and caked on, but this new solid formula from Bourjois is lightweight without compromising on colour payoff. Love a blue-toned red? Rubik’s Cute (see what they’ve done there?) is the hue to choose.

,£ ute

e lvet The Lips tick ge V

iteration of the link-up between MAC and the American actress and writer brings us a gorgeous goldenmahogany lipstick with a subtle metallic sheen.

uid Lip

Boots, Swan 8.99, se

, £16, Fee lUnique .

Mary Kay Gel Semi-Shine Lipstick Naturally Buff, £14, marykay.co.uk

Imparting a subtle sheen rather than all-out dazzle, Mary Kay’s Semi-Shine lipsticks come in 12 pinky shades, ideal if you want that ‘your lips but better’ vibe. 44 swansealife.co.uk

ou sR oi

Glam Taraji P Viva He C n A The next

Ainsel Sarong Lipstick, £19.50, ainsel.com New brand Ainsel wants you to forgo trends and find your perfect make-up staples instead, which is why its eight inaugural lipsticks are all classic shades, like Sarong, an uber-bright red with orange undertones.

Glamglow Plumprageous Metallic Lip Plumper Treatment Suggestive, £18, FeelUnique.com With plumping properties and a metallic finish, Glamglow’s new liquid lippie promises a Kylie Jenner-level pout - and it really delivers. Choose from Lusty, a pale rose gold or Suggestive, a deep copper brown.

HAIR & BEAUTY

The ultimate secret to youthful skin? Hydration.This unique two-step system gives skin a gentle peel with anti-ageing benefits. It intensely infuses hydration to visibly minimise fine lines and re-texturises and brightens the skin to reveal a youthful glow. Use the pre-soaked Retexturising Swab to exfoliate the skin with Glycolic and Lactic Acids and follow this with the Moisture Infusion Mask to deliver Hyaluronic Acid to the skin to lock in moisture.

THIS MONTH

Murad Hydro-Glow Aqua Peel £40, four treatments) House of Fraser, Cardiff or visit www.murad.co.uk

THE ONE We love Dolce & Gabbana’s latest fragrance, The One Eau de Toilette – an enchanting modern twist on Dolce & Gabbana favourite, The One Eau de Parfum. An oriental floral cent it is designed to hero the iconic Madonna Lily and is fresher than original The One Eau de Parfum.

Available in 30ml, 50ml and 100ml. From £43-£68, Debenhams, Swansea

WE LOVE LAURA DAVIES rounds up some of her favourite products this month laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

THE SMOULDER COLLECTION Inspired by modern, effortless, downtown style, we love Bobbi Brown’s Turn Up The Smoulder Collection. This assortment of must-haves makes it easy to get that donebut-perfectlyundone look. The collection includes a limited edition Long –Wear Gel Eyeliner Duo £19.50, a Downtown Cool Eye Shadow Palette £32.50, a Cream Glow Highlighter £21, a Dual-Ended Fine/Ultra Precise Liner Brush £28 and an Angle Eye Shadow Brush £25, Bobbi Brown, Debenhams, SwanseaLimited Edition Turn Up The Smoulder

REMOVER SPRAY We can’t get enough of Urban Decay’s long-lasting products, but how do you take them off?! With this Meltdown Makeup Remover Dissolving Spray. Formulated to easily remove even the most stubborn waterproof makeup, it’s as powerful as it is gentle. Meltdown Makeup Remover Dissolving Spray mists on weightlessly and starts working on contact to instantly dissolve our long-lasting products in one swipe—no rubbing or tugging on delicate skin.

FEEL THE DIFFERENCE...

YOUTHFUL GLOW

Ever wondered what makes activated charcoal the beauty essential of the moment? But how does it actually work? Toxins stick to activated charcoal which make it the perfect candidate for a deep cleanser and detoxifier. It’s completely natural and doesn’t add new chemicals to your skin. Instead, it will act like a magnet to attract and absorb dirt and oil which will be washed away when rinsed. Natura Siberica’s best-selling Northern Soap will leave your skin feeling and looking super clean and sparkling.

Northern Soap from Natura Siberic, £12, M&S, Swansea

SPARKLE LASHES Turn on your lash lights. Liquid pearls surround lashes with a multi-faceted lighting effect that adds extra sparkle to your eyes. This is definitely one to perfect in time for Christmas. Use all over lashes, or only for special spot lighting and sweep on over mascara after it dries. Estée Lauder Crystal Lash Topcoat, £21, Boots, Swansea

PROTECT YOUR HAIR COLOUR Look after your locks and highlights with Andrew Barton’s new Protect My Colour Shampoo and Conditioner, both £4.99 each. Asda, Llansamlet and Gorseinon

Urban Decay Meltdown Makeup Remover Dissolving Spray, 100ml, £23.50, Debenhams, Swansea

HOUSE OF HOLLAND’S PICNICWRAPS By far the most intricate nail art of the autumn catwalks was seen at House of Holland, where tiny rectangular rhinestones were glued side by side on false nails, to create a 3D gingham effect. You don’t have to go to all that effort however, because as part of the brand’s continued collaboration with Elegant Touch, House of Holland has created ready-made press-ons in adorable red and blue gingham. Elegant Touch House of Holland Picnic Pincers, £7.50, eleganttouch.com

PUNCH POPS

We love Benefit’s freshly squeezed assortment of liquid lip colours. Each vibrant colour has a POP of bursting colour, sensational shine and Vitamin E. The punch pops come in five shades, Watermelon, Strawberry, Bubblegum, Cherry and Mango, £15.50 each, Benefit, Debenhams, Swansea

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HAIR & BEAUTY

Top nail disasters AND HOW TO AVOID THEM Discoloured nails, dry cuticles and bubbles in nail polish are just some of the nail disasters that could easily be avoided. LAURA DAVIES looks at the care tips to stop nails from breaking and tricks to keep them chip-free laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

MY NAILS BREAK TOO EASILY If you’re fed up of painting your nails and then having one snap straight away you’re not alone. We’ve all had a manicure ruined by a broken nail at some point. Solution: Avoid quick dry nail polish as this dries out your nails and causes them to break easily. You can also use nail strengthener to keep your nails in top condition.

MY COLOUR ALWAYS CHIPS OFF After painting your nails, it often feels like you can’t do anything for fear of chipping them. Everyday tasks, such as washing the dishes, can spoil all the hard work. Solution: Look out for long-lasting top coats and apply every few days as a preventative measure, rather than waiting for nails to chip before fixing them.

MY NAILS ARE SOMETIMES DISCOLOURED It’s not uncommon to be left with a slight yellow or green tinge to your nails after removing nail polish, particularly if you’ve used a bright colour. This isn’t a great look but don’t worry, it can be avoided. Solution: Always use a base coat to create a barrier between your nails and the paint – this will make it easier to remove colour.

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MY CUTICLES ARE DRY Dry cuticles look messy and make at-home manicures a bit of a nightmare. Cutting your cuticles isn’t recommended, so it’s not uncommon for people to feel a bit lost. Solution: Apply cuticle oil to your nails regularly to keep them in top condition. At a pinch, baby oil also works to rehydrate.

I GET SMALL BUBBLES IN MY NAIL POLISH BOTTLES The bubbles in nail polish bottles rise when applied to your nails, and these unruly bubbles make nails look bumpy and messy, easily ruining a nice manicure. Solution: Store nail polishes in the fridge in warmer weather to stop these bubbles developing and always roll the bottle instead of shaking it.

MY MANICURE DOESN’T LAST LONG ENOUGH If you find yourself talking to your friends and realising their nails seem to stay in good condition for longer than yours, you might be making a simple nail mistake. Solution: Just as applying foundation to dirty or oily skin is a big no no, painting your nails when they aren’t clean can cause trouble later on. Make sure you clean your nails before painting them.

THE ENDS OF MY NAILS NEVER LOOK SMOOTH Jagged edges look messy and can scratch, so definitely avoid them where possible. The main way these are caused is by filing your nails incorrectly, so break this habit and your nails will be looking good in no time. Solution: When filing your nails, stroke in one direction rather than going back and forth for a smooth result.

I GET A MESSY FINISH WHEN PAINTING WITH MY NON-DOMINANT HAND Ever find that one hand looks perfect and the other a splodgy mess when painting your nails? We’ve definitely all been there. Solution: Although it can be tempting to rush to get it out of the way, using more coats with less polish when painting with your non-dominant hand is the way to keep things looking neat.

MY NAIL POLISH ALWAYS GOES THICK AND GLOOPY After time, nail polish tends to go thick, which is a nightmare if you like to switch your colour often so don’t use them up quickly. Don’t throw them away quite yet though – there is a way to fix this. Solution: Invest in some thinner and add a few drops of this to get nail polish back to a better consistency. As a preventative measure, storing nail polish in a cool place also helps to stop it from thickening.

THE STROKES FROM THE BRUSH ARE VISIBLE There’s nothing more annoying than being able to see the strokes from the brush on your freshly painted nails – it’s frustrating and easy enough to prevent. Solution: Start with a blob of paint in the centre of your nail and move outwards, using plenty of thin layers.

swansealife.co.uk 47

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 current winner of the National Federation of Hairdressing’s Welsh Make Up Artist of the Year award, Chris Howells, gives a Swansea woman a new look.

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 recently, 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 NICOLA...

This month’s makeover is Nicola, an alternative therapist from Swansea. Nicola emailed me to ask if I could help her with a new look. After being ill for a while she felt ready for a pick me up. Nicola has great skin and she needed very little product to balance the moisture barrier. I started with a mist of Laura Mercier Perfecting Water Mist, then applied two drops of Nuxe Huille Prodigieuse Oil to the drier areas of her face. This oil really nourishes. Then I followed with Natura Bisse C+C Vitamin Cream and a dab of Natura Bisse Diamond Extreme eye cream.

Before...

I started with Cover FX Illuminating Primer, this creates a great canvas. It is soothing and adds a natural glow. The foundation I chose was: Cover FX Natural Finish Foundation. It is oil free and long wearing. I applied this with a soft stippling brush. I applied Nars Soft Matte Concealer under the eye area and to conceal any redness or imperfections that were still visible. I then set it with Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder, to give an airbrushed finish. To enhance Nicola’s gorgeous cheekbones I used Illamasqua gel sculpt. A sheer gel is the most natural contour ever! I applied this under the cheekbones, around her hairline and temples, ensure a perfect blend. A Bobbi Brown nude pink crème blush was applied to the apples of her cheeks and then set with Cover FX Perfect Setting Powder, concentrating

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WIN Your very own autumn make over with Chris! All you need to do is send your details, along with a picture of yourself, to laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

on the T-zone. I applied a pewter shade of longwear cream eyeshadow all over the eyelid, into the crease and under the lash line and blended out with a soft brush. I then added a satin finish chocolate shadow tight to Nicola’s lash line and on the outer corners and blended it into the lashes. Then I used a black crème liner and a flat liner brush to line into the base of the upper lid. Sweeping a copper brown liner into the water line can add a little more definition to the eyes. I curled Nicola’s eyelashes and added a deep black mascara to help create more drama to her eyes. I used Hourglass Brow Sculpt Pencil to define the brows and I added a pale bronzer to the high points of Nicola’s face to create a little more warmth. I used Victoria Beckham Modern Mercury highlighter and applied a sweep to the apples of the cheeks, brow bone cupids bow and tip of the nose. On Nicola’s lips, I used Hourglass Confession High Intensity Refillable Lip Stylo in “I Desire”. I am sure you’ll agree Nicola’s finished look is elegant, sophisticated and above all glamorous.

After...

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HAIR & BEAUTY

PRETTY IN PINK

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, when you can indulge in beauty treats while knowing you’re doing your bit for charity at the same time. LAURA DAVIES rounds up her top beauty buys laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

GHD has created a pink blush range in support of Breast Cancer Research. The collection includes the hero product platinum styler, air dryer and paddle brush all in a pink blush shade. GHD’s pink blush collection, from £20. (With each sale of either the pink blush platinum style or air dryer, £10 will be donated to breast cancer research and £2 from the pink blush paddle brush will be donated) Available at Unique Hair Design, Gorseinon and www.ghd.com A “clear and romantic” scent, Jo Malone’s Red Roses Cologne contains seven varieties of its namesake flower, alongside notes of violet leaf and lemon to provide a modern yet still subtle upgrade to a traditional floral fragrance.

This pre-styler promises to add lift, volume and body while taming frizz, fly-aways and defining and separating the fluffiest of curls. Bumble and Bumble Thickening Spray, £22, Boots, Swansea (with £5 from each sale to the Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation)

Jo Malone’s Red Roses Cologne, £88, Jo Malone, Cardiff (£20 donation to the Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation from every bottle)

Clinique’s hero product hydrates and strengthens skin in a silky, lightweight formula that is perfect for a range of skin types from dry to combination. Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion, £38, Boots and Debenhams, Swansea and Parc Trostre (£2 from each sale will go to Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign.

Elemis celebrates 25 years of the Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Ribbon, with it’s pink Limited Edition Pro-collagen Marine Cream 100ml, £99, Monks at Machynys Spa, Llanelli. The lightweight cream absorbs easily and is proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles within two weeks. Elemis have pledged to donate £25,000 to Breast Cancer Care from the sales of the product.

This hero product reduces the signs of ageing leaving hydrated, plumped up and radiant skin in its wake. This limited edition version comes in a vibrant hot pink bottle with a cute keychain attached. Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair, £72, Boots, Swansea (with 20 per cent to charity)

We love Origins pink ultra-hydrating overnight mask that will leave skin feeling fresh, plumped and ready to face the day. Origins Limited Edition Drink-Up Intensive Overnight Mask, £25, John Lewis. (£4 from each sale will go towards Breast Cancer Research Foundation.)

This illuminating powder creates a healthy flush and sun-kissed look using the included mini face blender brush. Bobbi Brown Pink Peony Illuminating Bronzing Powder, £35, with 20 per cent from each sale going to charity).

swansealife.co.uk 51

HAIR & BEAUTY

Makeover!

W ITH

L ARA

JOHNSO N

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

Make over... Model: Emma Grattidge Occupation: Professional Model

EMMA SAYS... I really wanted a look that bends the rules of normal Halloween dressing up and wanted a look that was a bit more glamorous. I love the way it has all come together. The hair , styling and make up all works together perfectly.

LARA JOHNSON LIFESTYLE SAYS: This one is easy. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about costume and dressing for Halloween. We started by blow drying Emmas hair on large round brushes using Sebastian professional Mouse FortĂŠ. We then set the hair on Velcro rollers after spraying with Sebastian Professional Shaper Zero Gravity. If you are dressing the hair it is essential to get a foundation in which will help the style last. When the hair had set and cooled completely we divided into four sections and backcombed into a soft texture. The hair was then folded into shape and secured with pins. We specialise in dressing and feel that there is a look for every occasion, it was fun creating something for Halloween

Before...

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er Aft

Step by step... 1

Faux Bob A simple twist on the classic ponytail for all occasions

A simple dressing that can completely change your look

Difficulty Easy You Need A brush, bands, pins or grips, hair spray

Before...

1 2 3 4

Tip If you have layers put some movement through the shorter top layers. This will soften and make the shape even more convincing.

Put you hair into the desired parting and secure with a couple of bands. One at the end and one just below the hair line. If your hair is longer use more bands which make it easier to control Roll the hair upwards until the roll is at the nape of the neck. Secure the hair with a grip from each side. If you hair is thick use more grips

Separate the top layers and spray with a light hold hairspray With tongs or styling irons create some movement to soften the look

CONGRATULATIONS! A massive well done to our very own columnists Lara Johnson and Dom Capel, who are finalists in one of the most prestigious British hair awards - HJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s British Hairdressing Awards. This is no small feat with the 2017 awards attracting hundreds of entries which take the form of photographic collections. The winners of this and 15 other categories including the prized British Hairdresser of the Year title, are all to be announced at The British Hairdressing Awards, which, takes place at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prestigious Park Lane on Monday, November 27. We all have our fingers crossed for you!

swansealife.co.uk 53

HAIR & BEAUTY

EMMA’S BEAUTY CHATTER Former Miss Wales Emma Jenkins is a TV make-up artist and presenter from Llanelli. This month she goes for a vamp look. Follow her on Instagram/Twitter: @emmavjenx October, home to one of my favourite days of the year - Halloween! I love channelling my inner ‘goth’ for this month, dark eyes and vampy lips being my signature look. Here are my steps to becoming the perfect autumnal Halloween queen!

SMOKE OUT YOUR PEEPERS! I love to achieve a deep smoky eye with a winged liner... think Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty. The Urban Decay ‘Vice Reloaded’ Palette, £46, Debenhams, Swansea, provides so many different colour options to create an enchanting eye look. Choose from violets, blues, blacks and greens, it’s so versatile and edgy.

PAIR DARK WITH DARK! The old rule stated we were to choose to go bold with our eyes or our lips... but I’m throwing this rule out of the window! I adore my NYX Liquid Suede lipstick in Vintage, £7, Boots, Swansea and Llanelli The perfect shade of plum, a MUST for the month of October. Go bravely into the world of vamp, I’m with you every step of the way!

GO BIG WITH YOUR LASHES! Don’t be scared - the time is now! Check out Illamasqua’s range of falsies, a pioneer in the world of alternative beauty, they have some seriously cool lash styles. My favourite lash is called ‘Desire,’ £12.50, www.feelunique.com, fluttery and light yet dramatic and glam. The perfect partner for a smoky eye.

6 BEAUTY PRODUCTS WE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT...

1 2

Do use SPF50 every day “A really good SPF that works for my skin tone, that is probably what I spend most of my money on. Heliocare do a tinted version which is gorgeous and it’s not that expensive.” Heliocare Gelcream Colour SPF50, £23.50, EffortlessSkin.com

Do apply mascara from the roots “I always apply as much as I can at the roots first. Get down to the roots and hold [the wand] there and massage very slowly as long as you can. It’s all about getting the bulk on first, otherwise the lashes can get very heavy at the end.” Lancome Hypnose Doll Eyes Mascara, £24.50, Debenhams, Swansea

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Do use concealer sparingly “I like to have more coverage where I need it and less where I don’t, because it tricks the eye. The person is looking at you and thinking, ‘You’re not really wearing a lot of make-up’, when actually you can get away with wearing quite a lot when it’s not heavy all over.” Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Wear Camouflage High Coverage Concealer, £22, Debenhams, Swansea

Go easy on the bronzer “The thing with bronzer is that it’s always hard to take it down once you’ve done it. Apply it with nice light layers over your cheekbones, cheeks, temples, across the top of the forehead and a little bit on the neck.” Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder, £36.50, John Lewis, Cardiff and Bourjois Matt Illusion Bronzing Powder, £5.95, FeelUnique.com

Do use a primer “I Bioderma products especially their Pore Refining Primer, a pore refiner that I use on clients underneath make-up.” Bioderma Sebium Pore Refiner, £15.10, Escentual.com

Do use face masks liberally “I am obsessed with face masks and try and wear one at least once a week. I love Susanne Kaufmann, which is a natural Austrian brand. That is probably my favourite at the moment.” Susanne Kaufmann Moisturizing Mask, £41, Naturisimo.com

R hydian M aher

30 Castle Street | Swansea | Tel: 01792 470274 |

@RhydianMaherHairSalon

Health & wellbeing

FOOD BENEFITS (page 58) DR CHARLOTTE (page 62) WEIGHT LIFTING (page 64)

DefyTime

Cosmetic Clinic & Medical Spa

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

FO O D B E N E F I TS

pumpkin seeds

It’s nearly Halloween which means time for pumpkins! Before throwing out your pumpkin’s insides during your Halloween carving, don’t forget the inside is just as nutritious and tasty as its outside. Pumpkin seeds can be eaten raw, or cooked and add spices or sugar to enjoy them salty or sweet. Eat them on their own or toss them over a pasta or salad dish. LAURA DAVIES looks at the benefits of pumpkin seeds laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Aids Sleep The sleep hormone can sometimes feel hard to come by during the restless winter nights. If you need help settling down at night, pumpkin seeds could be for you. Snack on some a few hours before sleep to find yourself more calm and drowsy. Just make sure it is a few hours beforehand!

Helps to improve your skin Because pumpkin seeds are rich with Omega-3 fats, there are many hidden skin benefits within your new favourite graze craze. Omega-3 can manage oil production in the skin, as well as managing the hydration levels – perfect for someone with combination skin. It can also help reduce the small red bumps often seen on the hair follicles of the upper arms, that are common in the winter months.

@LawsDx

Increases immunity Because these seeds contain a rich source of zinc, they are perfect for combatting winter colds. Zinc aids immunity and cell growth in your body. Many of us do not get enough zinc in our diet, which is what leads to an increase in cold and flu symptoms. So make sure to include some of these miracle seeds in your next meal if you want to avoid the yearly bout of sneezes!

Migraine relief Pumpkin seeds contain high levels of magnesium that is proven to be the ideal remedy for migraines, especially those brought on by the menstrual cycle. Much like zinc, we often do not get enough of these important minerals in our diets.

They curb hunger cravings

Stronger, healthier nails A deficiency in zinc is what leads to brittle nails that break easily, as well as white spots that we get on the surface of our nails. Eating pumpkin seeds could be your quick-fix to salon-perfect, healthy nails.

Gives you energy Pumpkin seeds make a great snack when you are on the move because they are easy to pile into a container and nibble on throughout the day. Even better if your daily routine involves a lot of hard work these little power-houses pack a lot of fast releasing energy!

These seeds may be small – but they are mighty! They are full of healthy fats and proteins. Mono-unsaturated fats, found in pumpkin seeds, send messages to your brain that you are feeling full. Eating these over a sugary snack may be less tempting, but in an hours time you won’t find your stomach grumbling for more. Handy for those looking for a diet hack. They also won’t leave you with a sugar crash!

Helps eliminate stress That same hormone that helps you fall asleep can also help you reduce stress and lighten your mood. It’s called serotonin, and a boost of it from healthy sources such as pumpkin seeds could result in a more relaxed and positive state to face the day with. Unhealthy snacks that contain high amounts of sugar and chemicals are proven to have a negative effect on your mood. Studies say switch these out for less processed foods such as seeds for a more sunny disposition.

Provides menopause relief Hot flashes, hormone imbalances, fatigue. The symptoms of menopause are absolutely no fun. Luckily, some say that pumpkin seeds can reduce all these symptoms due to their high level of Vitamin E. They also contain chemicals that act in the same way as oestrogen, which can balance out uneven hormone levels in the body.

Lowers cholesterol Pumpkin seeds are low in bad cholesterol. They also contain plant-based components that can suck out bad cholesterol already existing in your body, allowing you to continue living a healthy lifestyle.

Prevents dandruff

Helps premature ageing Antioxidants found in pumpkin seeds, Vitamins E and A, can fight the damage done by the sun as well as ward off free-radicals, helping skin look younger for longer.

You can use pumpkin seed oil, massaging it into your scalp to provide a gentle, natural alternative to harsher beauty products – or you can simply add the seeds to your daily diet for the same desired effect.

OF DA E M I T YT T S

O RK OU T ? WO

EN IS THE H BE W

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Some of the science says early-morning jogs for weight loss, early-evening weights for stress relief - but there are no hard and fast rules. LAURA DAVIES finds out laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

RUNNING

When’s best: Morning There are various benefits to heaving yourself out of bed for an early-morning run. Studies found that 7am is the best time to go for a jog if you want to reduce your blood pressure and get a better night’s sleep. One of the main benefits of running in the morning is weight loss. This is because running will kick-start your metabolism, helping your body burn more calories throughout the day. There’s also a psychological effect that morning exercisers will be aware of: You’ll head to work feeling far more alert and hopefully less stressed about the day ahead. There’s also that smug feeling of knowing you’ve nailed a workout before your colleagues have even reached for their first coffee.

WEIGHT TRAINING

When’s best: Early evening Research into what time is best to exercise has been examined by considering circadian rhythms; the idea is that the human body clock has an optimum time for peak performance just as night time signals sleep. For weights, it would seem the optimum time is early evening. For men in particular, testosterone and cortisone levels are found to be strongest in the early evening, meaning their muscle strength is at its strongest. One study found that those who lifted weights in the evening increased their muscle mass more than those who trained

60 swansealife.co.uk

@LawsDx

in the morning. However, the difference was not significant research into this subject has yielded mixed results. This is a less scientific point but definitely valid: If you’ve had a stressful day and then lift weights, chances are, you’re going to feel better.

SWIMMING AND CYCLING

When’s best: Afternoon or evening Studies have found high-intensity exercise (like cycling) works better when your body temperature is higher and your joints have loosened up. This means your performance is likely to be better during a 6pm ride than one at 6am. Swimming, cycling and running work many of the same major muscle groups, so there is little difference as regards when it is best to perform any one of them. But again, much like running, if weight loss is your aim, you might be swayed towards a morning session.

YOGA

When’s best: Morning Many yogis prefer a morning session but this is predominantly for mental, rather than physical, reasons. If you’ve only done one yoga class, chances are you did the sun salutation sequence of poses, which is specifically geared towards greeting the beginning of the day. Practising yoga as soon as you rise helps you dedicate yourself to yoga with a clear mind, before the day’s stresses get in the way.

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

ASK

DR. CHARLOTTE

This month Sketty GP and Swansea Life doctor Charlotte Jones, focusses on blood donation

BLOOD DONATION With Halloween approaching, let’s have a look at blood donation. WHY SHOULD I DONATE BLOOD?

HOW OFTEN CAN I GIVE BLOOD?

All parts of the blood have a special purpose in the body but after donation it only lasts a short time so regular donations are essential to meet demand.

n Men can give blood a minimum of every 12 weeks and give up to 4 donations / year n Females can give blood every 16 weeks up to a maximum of 3 times / year.

CAN EVERYONE GIVE BLOOD?

HOW IS THE BLOOD TAKEN?

Everyone is eligible to donate blood provided you are aged between 17 and 66 at the time of giving your first donation and in good health and weigh at least 50kg. However, in order to make sure it is safe for you to give blood and also to ensure there is no risk of potential contamination of blood samples and thus infect those receiving your blood, you may not be able too at all or have to wait a period of time before you can donate e.g. n if you are anaemic or have other health issues. e.g heart disease, cancer, stroke, chronic lung disease (not asthma), inflammatory bowel disease, chronic fatigue syndrome. n if you are pregnant or have been pregnant within six months – breastfeeding is fine n if you have had a blood transfusion or transplant after 01.01.80 n have recently travelled to some countries (see www.welsh-blood.org.uk where you can check the country you have visited) n if you have had a piercing or tattoo within four months n if you have had Botox or permanent and semi-permanent make up within four months (for acupuncture see www.welsh-blood.org.uk) n if you have had root canal treatment, crowns or tooth extraction withinseven7 days OR if you have dental pain or an abscess you should not donate blood. You only need to wait 24 hours after a scale and polish or fillings. n If you have HIV or are a carrier for Hepatitis B or C n If you are a drug user n Some sexual relationships – see www.welshblood.org.uk This list is not exhaustive. Don’t worry though as the blood donation team will always ask some questions before they let you donate your blood and don’t be afraid to ask if you are not sure.

A finger prick test is done initially to check your heamoglobin level. If that is fine, then a needle is inserted into the arm and drains off around 1 pint of blood and it usually only takes around 15 minutes. If donating plasma cells then that will take longer – roughly 60 minutes. You are usually advised to avoid hot drinks (because of potential sweating) and alcohol (due to potential loss of fluids) for a period of time after donating as these can make you feel unwell such as feeling faint or dizzy. It is also advised not to do strenuous exercise until the day after donation just in case you feel faint or dizzy or just unwell. You will usually get a snack though after donating.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN MY BLOOD HAS BEEN TAKEN?

It is transported to the local Welsh Blood Service laboratory where it is tested and then split into its three main components – red cells, plasma and platelets. To find out more about how and why each part of the blood is vital for life, see www.welsh-blood.org.uk

WHAT IS MY BLOOD TESTED FOR?

Every sample is tested for HIV, Hepatitis B&C, Human T Lymphotropic Virus and syphilis – some blood test samples have more tests (e.g. children’s blood)

WHERE CAN I GIVE BLOOD?

There are lots of different places from mobile vans to church halls to clinics in hospitals. Have a look at www.welsh-blood.org.uk to find your local venues

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Don’t worry, this isn’t about magically developing bulging biceps. LAURA DAVIES looks at why more women should give weights a try laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

PUMPING IRON

There’s still a pretty clear gender divide at the gym. Men tend to stick to the weights section and grunt as loudly as possible, while the majority of women avoid weights at all costs and opt for the running machines instead. Of course, this isn’t to say that no women lift weights, but there is definitely an imbalance. Why? Maybe women are less sure about how to use them, or are scared of looking too muscly. But lifting weights will not magically turn you into the Incredible Hulk. Here is why...

IT’LL STRENGTHEN YOUR MUSCLES

For muscles to grow stronger, all you need to do is make them work harder than they are accustomed to working. This is called the ‘overload principle’. It’s as simple as that: If you start lifting weights, you will get stronger. But following this principle, if you start lifting weights, you can’t just stay at the same level forever - to continue building up your muscles, you need to steadily increase your weights or reps. Gaining muscle will help tone your body (if you accompany weight training with a healthy diet), and generally make you feel even more fabulous. Promise!

BUT DON’T WORRY, YOU WON’T BECOME SUPER MUSCLY

One of the main things deterring women from lifting weights is the idea that as soon as you start pumping iron, you’ll become as ripped as Arnold Schwarzenegger. Women can get stronger but can’t, usually, get as large as men - simply because testosterone levels are lower. 64 swansealife.co.uk

Of course, women can develop a muscly physique, but it’s just harder to achieve than it is for men. Women generally have more body fat - breast and hip tissue attest to this - so their ability to pack on as much muscle as a male would require losing a lot of fat mass. Men, on the other hand, could simply add muscle mass, and with a little bit of fat loss could appear, and be, stronger than a woman of comparable size and structure. This means women would have to lose a whole lot of body fat, or be genetically inclined towards having extra testosterone, to become as bulky as most men. With proper diet this is not impossible, but this is at the extremes of training and genetic potential; most females cannot add enough muscle mass, and generally will not diet to such extremes to create the sculpted, largermuscled figures we see in elite athletes and lifters. At this point it’s worth noting that, as with any form of exercise, you need to pay close attention to diet if you want to see changes in your body - whether it’s toning up or losing weight.

IT KEEPS YOUR HEART HEALTHY

The American Heart Association recommends strength training twice a week for overall heart health. Strength training often gets overlooked for its importance in improving cardiovascular health, but it can be a valuable addition in reducing the risk of heart disease. Lifting weights can lower your blood pressure, something which has been found to reduce the risk of heart disease.

IT HELPS YOU BURN MORE CALORIES THROUGHOUT THE DAY

Although this type of exercise doesn’t burn many calories, it keeps your muscles and bones strong and can increase your metabolism. A lot of women opt for cardio-based workouts with the aim of burning the most calories possible. However, what you might not know is that even though a weights session might not burn as many calories as running on the treadmill, it’ll help burn more in the long term. This all comes down to your metabolism: The amount of energy you burn in a day. Muscle mass adds daily calorie burn to the overall metabolic rate. This means when you lift weights and increase your muscle mass, your metabolism speeds up and burns more calories throughout the day. It should be noted that the overall effect of this is smaller for women than men, but it’s still definitely something to take into consideration.

IT BUILDS YOUR CONFIDENCE

Sure, there are lot of incredible health and fitness reasons to start doing some strength training, but there’s also a psychological aspect to consider too. As a woman, lifting weights has the power to hugely boost your confidence. Getting stronger is an amazing feeling, as is knowing that weights are by no means a boys-only club.

• Christmas Afternoon Tea for Two • Casino Royale Party Night • Big Band Swing Night • Masquerade Ball at Hensol Castle • Family Sunday Lunch Parties • Christmas Day Lunch • New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner

£40 pp* only £59 pp* only £60 pp* only £70 pp* family £79 from £80 pp* only £179 pp* only

2 NIGHT CHRISTMAS BREAK Adult

£295pp* | Child £85pp*

Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY *Family: Two adults and two children under twelve years.

SL.09.2017

01443 665803 | www.vale-hotel.com

Bride

REAL LIFE WEDDING (page 68) ARRIVE IN STYLE (page 72) WE LOVE (page 70)

BRIDE

real life wedding Carly and Ceri Tucker-Williams Carly Tucker, 29, a charity worker from Penllergaer, married Ceri Williams, 30, a DVLA civil servant, at Brynich Barn in Brecon. JESSICA HAMMETT speaks with the brideâ&#x20AC;¦

68 swansealife.co.uk

How did the proposal happen? We were in Chepstow National Diving and Activity Centre, and Ceri had made a storybook from our recent trip to Scotland. It closed with the question: ‘Will you marry me?’ He then got down on one knee and proposed. We have known each other since school, and 11 years on we thought we would give it a go! Where did you get married, was it difficult to choose a venue? We got married in Brynich Barn in Brecon. It wasn’t difficult to choose a venue, as once we had visited, I knew it was the one! We just love Brecon as a place, and the venue and its views are simply beautiful. How would you describe your wedding theme? We didn’t really have a theme, as such. Although we had interweaved a few woodland touches. We tried our best to make things as personal as possible. Both of us are really into our music, so we had a guitar case for presents and cards, and there were jars personalised with music notes on tables. Was it a DIY wedding? Definitely! As we wanted to keep things as personal and hand-made as possible, we made everything that we could. I arranged the flowers myself, adding fabric and brooches to personalise them for each bridesmaid. I had a scrabble letter underneath each bouquet with the initials of my bridesmaids names. I made all of the invites, buttonholes, and table decorations. We bought centrepieces, but we sprayed them copper to match our colour scheme. Our guest book was a big wooden board for people to sign – we wanted something to keep, rather than something that would be left in the attic! Our table plan was made from wooden logs and we wrote our guests names on the bottom of the log. Tell us about your wedding cake? Our cake was made by one of Ceri’s friends. It had three log slices to look like a tree, and it had our names carved into it with a date. Ceri’s mum made two hedgehogs for the top, which were a bride and groom. It looked and tasted fab! Were there any quirky touches? Instead of having a dessert option, we decided to have an an ice-cream van. While we we enjoying it outside on the grass, we had a live musician – Tom Martin – playing acoustic music. We also had fire pits to toast marshmallows, and hot dogs outside in the evening. Luckily, we had a really sunny day and our guests were also able to enjoy playing with the garden games we had made. My dad had built a giant Jenga, which was brilliant! The bridesmaids had also organised a photo mirror, so we had plenty of fun with that!

Tell us about your wedding dress… I think I must have tried on about 50 dresses - it wasn’t easy! Everyone was saying once you try on ‘the one’ you’ll know. But I was struggling to believe them. I had seen a picture of my final dress, and I hired it from Rhapsody in Swansea. As soon as I put it on – the saying came true: I knew it was for me! Tell us about your beauty prep for the day… I had JM Makeup to do my bridal makeup, and she was brilliant. She has done my makeup plenty of times before, and she is fantastic at giving me a natural look. Our hairdresser was from Crown and Glory. I had a half-up halfdown do, with some waterfall braids. What was your favourite moment? One of my favourite moments was our first dance. I had recorded my own version of Paramore’s ‘Still Into You’ but Ceri didn’t realise it was me until halfway through! It was recorded about a week before we got married, in my old tech lecturer’s studio. It was a complete surprise, and only the photographer, DJ and myself knew about it. It was fantastic seeing his reaction when he realised. My bridesmaids also sang for us, and created a slideshow of our friendship. That was a really special moment; there were just too many enjoyable parts to name them all! How important was photography to your wedding day? Very important! I used to work in a photography studio, so I am quite picky with pictures and how they look. I have known our photographer, Paul Davies, for years, and I knew he would do a good job. I also knew I could tell him exactly what I wanted. Did you have a videographer? Yes, a company called First Class Films recorded our wedding. A couple of weeks before our big day, I had watched my parent’s wedding video, and I realised that I needed our wedding to be recorded to look back on in years to come. He was absolutely brilliant, and although he was always there in the background, he didn’t get in the way. We have seen a highlight three-minute clip, and he had overlaid it with my recorded first dance song. used the first dance song that we had recorded for. We haven’t got our final yet, but the three-minute one blew me away, so I can’t wait to see the rest! Do you have any advice for brides to be? Enjoy it! Make your day really personal, and just do what you want to do. Don’t let anyone else influence your choices on anything. Also, don’t stress too much - the outcome is the same, either way! Just enjoy every minute of it, before and after your wedding day. Pictures: Paul Davies Photography www.paul-daviesphotography.co.uk

swansealife.co.uk 69

BRIDE

ON POINT

Enhance your wedding look with Dune’s Beaubelle court shoe. Showcasing a classic pointed toe with a dazzling diamante embellished bow, the slim mid heel completes the elegant slip on style. Beaubelle heels, £99, Dune at Debenhams, Swansea

BREAK THE ICE

Add the extra sparkle to your day with these pack of 10 sparklers with personalised tags. They will look great in your wedding pictures too! £4.95, www.sparklers.co.uk

THIS MONTH

WE LOVE LAURA DAVIES rounds up some of her favourite products this month laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

PERSONALISED Say thank you to your maids with their very own personalised make-up bag. £12, Next.co.uk

FANCY FAVOUR These soap wedding favours look good enough to eat and are the perfect luxury gifts for your guests! The soap is mild, SLS-free and has a soft floral and washed cotton scent. It’s also sprinkled with fairy dust and decorated with a pink rose to create a lovely addition to any bathroom. Pretty Little Wedding Favours, Soap Fancy, £3.49, GettingPersonal. co.uk

CHEESE Personalised Mr & Mrs Wedding Cheese Board, includes Knife Set, £35, Next.co.uk

GET PLANNING Get organised in style for your big day with this gorgeous countdown calendar. The only way to organise your wedding. It’s ideal for managing all those important dates and it’s full of prompts and tips and includes cute stickers to mark important days in the run up and a pocket to store paperwork. Busy B Countdown Calendar, £11, John Lewis, Cardiff

70 swansealife.co.uk

@LawsDx

IDEAL TO DISPLAY Make the bride-to-be’s big day extra special with this personalised white wedding dress hanger! The wooden hanger features the bride-to-be’s new surname, a date and is finished with a white, silver or pastel pink bow. It’s a great way to display the all-important dress in the wedding photos and will be a unique keepsake to remember the day! Personalised White Wedding Dress Hanger, £39.99, GettingPersonal.co.uk

We love the new postcard app Wishing You, which allows you to send personalised postcards to your nearest and dearest from across the world, keeping them in touch while you’re on the move. Not only is it perfect for a special ‘thank you’, wedding invite, ‘save the date’ or honeymoon update, it is easy to use too! Just share your pictures at the tap of a button and upload photos or images, personalise and post for only £1 per postcard. For more information visit, www.wishingyou.co.uk

WISHING YOU WERE HERE

FAB PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

Just as important as table centrepieces, these quiz cards are perfect for in between dinner courses, photographs and speeches. Let your guests test each other with these 50 large self-discovery cards, featuring visual, logic and number puzzles from the great minds at Mensa. Ginger Fox, Mensa Riddles and Conundrums £9.50, John Lewis, Cardiff

Oldwalls, a collection of luxury wedding venues Wedding Showcase at Fairyhill & Oldwalls Gower Sunday 15th October, 12pm - 5pm oldwallscollection.com

Shot in Fairyhillâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 24-acre Gower garden

BRIDE

arrive in style Searching for the perfect way to make an entrance? From quirky and fun to classic and traditional, JESS HAMMETT’s top picks will get you to the church on time…

retro Step back in time with a retro classic. Whether you’re looking for cruising Vauxhall Crestas or fierce MGB roadsters, there are some absolute beauties waiting for that special big-day spin!

where can i get one? Champagne Wedding Cars, Swansea, champagneweddingcars.co.uk n Retro Hire Wales, Pontarddulais, retrohirewales.co.uk n Perfect Day Cars, Pontyclun, perfectdaycars.co.uk n

72 swansealife.co.uk

vintage

london chic

High quality vintage cars are a piece of art, bringing style and elegance to your big day. Not only are they gorgeous to look at, they are spacious and comfortable, offering ample headroom and wide doors. Some are even convertible, so you can enjoy the pleasure of open-top motoring – if the Welsh weather allows!

If you’re hunting for a totally different way for your guests to arrive at your ceremony or reception, a London Bus is a great place to start! It’ll not only be a fabulous talking point, but it can also be used as a fun backdrop for photographs. If globe-trotting is your thing, you could even incorporate it into a quirky travel wedding theme! Next stop? The altar!

where can i get one?

Ebony and Ivory, Penarth, Ebonyandivoryweddings.co.uk Kennedy Classics, Cardiff, kennedyclassics.co.uk n Exquisite Bridal Cars, Swansea, exquisitebridalcars.co.uk

London Bus 4 Hire, Monmouthshire, Londonbus4hire.com n Newport Bus, Newport, newporttransport. worldsecuresystems.com

n n

fun and funky

surf’s up

From quirky Morris Minor Police Cars, to Delboy and Rodney’s Reliant Robin, a really whacky car is waiting to take you to say “I do!” If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even hire a mismatch fleet. A London white cab would also add a quirky edge, without being too out-there.

Volkswagen classics usually have a quirky restoration story to tell – and you certainly can’t beat that iconic VW hum. The opening safari windows in vintage split screen campers offer the prettiest moments for your photographer, and cute little love bugs are sure to put a smile on everyone’s face!

where can i get one?

where can i get one? n

Champagne Wedding Cars, Swansea, champagneweddingcars.co.uk

horse and carriage Have you always dreamt of being a princess? A horse and carriage will make that fairy-tale wedding come true, drawn by matching horses with coachman and liveried groom. Your prince will be waiting for you at the aisle – just don’t lose your glass slipper!

where can i get one? Kilvey Carriage House, Swansea, kilveycarriagehouse.com South Wales Carriage Driving Centre, Gowerton, rowena-moyse. com n Gentle Giants, Cardigan, Cardiganshires.co.uk n n

LoveDub Weddings, Llantrisant, lovedubweddings.co.uk Big Day Bug, Aberaeron, bigdaybug.co.uk

rolls-royalty Rock up in a Rolls-Royce and feel like royalty! These classics typically seat up to four, so it’s a great way to treat the Groom, his Bestman and Ushers. It’ll grace your wedding with timeless elegance and design, and make for fabulous snaps.

where can i get one? iDoo Wedding Cars, Cardiff, idooweddingcarscardiff.co.uk Henrietta Hire, Pontypool, henriettahire.co.uk n Caseys Cars, Newport, Southwaleslimosandweddingcars.com n n

groom’s car Calling all petrol heads! Mix your big day with a driving experience, and it’ll certainly make it one to remember. Burn rubber in a Porsche, hit the track in a Lamborghini or arrive Bond-style in an Aston Martin – the options are endless!

limo

where can i get one? iDoo Wedding Cars, Cardiff, idooweddingcarscardiff.co.uk Wedding Car Hire, weddingcarhire.co.uk n Regency, Cardiff, sportscarhire.org.uk n n

The style and space of a limousine makes it the perfect transport for the bride and her bridesmaids, the pageboys or the wedding guests. Limos promise to get the party started early, with mirrored ceilings, fibre optic lights, and TV systems. Not forgetting the champagne and an illuminated bar, of course!

where can i get one? Caseys Cars, Newport, Southwaleslimosandweddingcars.com Swansea Limousine Hire, Swansea, swansealimousinehire.co.uk n Singletons Executive Cars, Bridgend, singletonlimos.com n n

swansealife.co.uk 73

Fashionably different

01792 898544 or 07971 487799 www.JustinHarrisPhotography.co.uk

@justinpixdotcom

justinharrisphotographyuk

@justinharrisphotography

Bespoke Wedding Packages Available

for 2018 and 2019 Winter Weddings from ÂŁ2,999 Looking for the perfect setting for your wedding day? Look no further than The Cliff Hotel & Spa in West Wales. Recently renovated to include an exclusive wedding suite, inclusive of ballroom to fit up to 160 guests (up to 250 for evening) exclusive use bar and your own terrace area. All areas of the wedding suite maximises the panoramic sea views of Cardigan Bay. Please contact our wedding coordinator Louise Jones on weddings@cliffhotel.com for more details or to arrange a meeting.

The Cliff Hotel & Spa, Gwbert, Ceredigion, SA43 1PP 01239 613241 | www.cliffhotel.com | weddings@cliffhotel.com

Christmas AT THE OXWICH BAY HOTEL

Relax and enjoy the festive period at the Oxwich Bay Hotel and let our superb chefs and attentive staff look after you, your family, and friends. Festive Afternoon Tea Including a visit to see Santa.

Indulge in an array of seasonal sweet and savoury treats served with a glass of mulled wine.

Festive Lunch & Dinner For groups of 10 or more.

Treat your friends and family for a festive 4-course meal to remember.

Party Night

Stay with us over Christmas Relax for 3 nights and let us take care of your friends and family.

Start off the celebrations with Afternoon Tea on Christmas Eve served in our luxury marquee overlooking the bay, followed by a sumptuous meal that night in the hotel. Wake up to a full English, Welsh or continental breakfast on Christmas Day, followed by lunch and an evening buffet. Enjoy breakfast on Boxing Day and perhaps a stroll along Oxwich Beach before enjoying dinner. Finally, if you’ve still got room, wake up to breakfast before heading on your way.

Join us on our luxury party night.

New Year’s Eve

Celebrate by joining in on our party night in the Marquee, with a welcome drink on arrival, a superb 5-course meal with coffee and mince pies to finish! Party the night away with excellent entertainment and a private bar.

See the new year in with style, with a drink and canapés on arrival, 5-course meal in the Hotel, or 3-course in the Marquee, and entertainment into the night.

Christmas Day

Available to both residents and non-residents. Let us look after you on Christmas Day with a welcome drink on arrival, and enjoy a delicious 7-course meal in the Hotel, or 5-course in the Marquee.

Choose from a masquerade ball in our luxury marquee, or gala dinner in the hotel.

For further information visit: www.OxwichBayHotel.co.uk/Christmas

Food & drink

THE BLUEBELL (page 78) SIAN DAY (page 87) A TASTE OF HOME WITH NATHAN LLOYD (page 88)

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

enquiries@nortonhousehotel.co.uk Nortonhousemumbles @nortonhousemumb

FOOD & DRINK

BLUEBELL PETER SLEE falls for a glorious mishmash of flavours at Tycoch Square’s Bluebell....... peter.slee@trinitymirror.com

@PeterSlee56

I’m pretty sure that if my memory serves me correctly, Swansea used to be able to boast the kind of Greek taverna of the kind we all love so much from our holidays. The kind of place where waiters smashed plates on its floors, customers smashed on Domestica danced on tables and Shirley Valentines ruefully smoothed out their creased photographs of Tom Conti lookalikes. No one needed explanations of taramasalata, dolmades, fava, hummus or deep-fried squid. The knowledge was literally ingrained. And the experience was fun. But where was it? For the life of me I can’t remember. No matter, it’s long gone anyway! Which brings me in a roundabout way to The Bluebell. No, I agree. The name doesn’t immediatly conjure up images of anything vaguely Meditteranean. And certainly, its location on the ground floor of a fairly inauspicious flats complex in Tycoch Square on the site of the area’s old primary school isn’t one that could ever easily be mistaken for sitting in an eaterie on the slopes in the shadow of the Parthenon. But , this great, warm-hearted, gorgeously priced, delicious little neighourhood restaurant which takes reservations and offers brisk, cheerful service, will make you feel like you’re on holiday. Inside, its nicely homely rather than posh. To one side, an open’ish kitchen where you can watch the chefs sweating away if that’s what takes your fancy. Its young entrepreneurial sibling owners Tim and Sophia Joannides both with a background in the hospitality industry - have used their family heritage as a bit of a backdrop to the place. It is far though, from being its main theme. Cast an eye over the new, simple but dramatically pleasing menu this pair have just launched for the autumn and you’ll see the likes of buttermilk fried chicken, moules et frites, salmon fillets rib eye steak, pizzas and burgers as well as plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.

78 swansealife.co.uk

But dotted through it too there are some little authentic gems made with carefully selected ingredients and cooked with the kind of loving attention of a yia-yia (grandma.) Keftedes (greek meatballs); a Greek platter with flat breads, houmous, tzatziki and a chunky chickpea relish or from their morning offerings, The Big Greek breakfast with traditional sausage, Cypriot halloumi and oregano spinach all entice. We launch into little stumps of delicious, home-made bread with a small dish of excellent olive oil. Alongside it, an overflowing bowl of quite delicious, nicely-plump green olives. Then the main event. I plump for a safe option of roast chicken supreme with crispy skin, creamy mash and seasonal greens at £12.95. The silky mushroom sauce it was sitting in was spot on and perfectly balanced. Mrs S. orders soothing sounding sugarsnap peas and soba noodles with sesame seeds cooked in a soy sauce (£7.45) a dish which she tells me is an excellent way to discover how skilled the chef really is, and I realise I’ve done the fashion equivalent of choosing a beige V-neck sweater. So all good. My abiding memory of The Bluebell is that everything arrived with an extra oomph. An oily seductive puddle here. A blob of something curiously nice, there. A humble sounding plate of salad came in a joyous tumble having had black olives, oregano and feta dotted through it. The wine list is the kind you and I comb to find something tempting under £20. We do too. So all in all, a big hit. It is great to see somewhere like this open up in the city. It needs it, it really does. Sophia and Tim have also forged what look to be good relationships with local suppliers of meats, fish, vegetables and dairy products and it shows. As a result, the food spins on an axis of ingredients in their prime. OK, so Harlech Crescent doesn’t exactly conjure up images of package holidays in Greece and holidaymakers seduced by sun, sea, sand, ferries and an idyllic exchange rate with the drachma. But this place still offers plenty. Independent restaurants in Swansea with gifted cooks, benign service, decent wine lists and coffee, reasonable pricing: bring ‘em on. There can never be enough.

n Bluebell.

17-18 Carnglas Rd, Sketty, Swansea SA2 9BL Tel: 01792 207891 www.bluebellcoffee.co.uk

swansealife.co.uk 79

Advertisement Feature

Experience the discovered gem of the Gower Peninsula for yourself The beautiful magic that lies on our doorstep in Bishopston, just outside of Swansea, does not end at our luxurious boutique establishment.

Our location puts us right in a Valley, situated next to a breathtaking Church, St Teilo’s that some say dates back to before the 13th Century.

The Gower Hotel lies in a prime location, surrounded by the Bishopston village and valley, forests and only a walk away from some of the most amazing beaches and hidden walkways and trail paths.

Put your wellies or hiking boots on and with a short walk, you will find yourself feeling as though you are part of a movie scene, surrounded by lush vegetation, moss, ivy and trees that date back hundreds of years.

This is what makes our hotel newly discovered. Now known as THE “hidden” gem (as our recent guests would say).

We offer more than just a night’s stay, we offer our guests an experience. Escaping into one of the most beautiful parts of Wales.

Come and discover the best kept secret of the Gower Peninsula

Come stay with us to explore And experience what we offer

Come stay with us to explore and experience what we offer

Great for nature lovers, photographers, trail runners, Perfect for ALL

GREAT FOR NATURE LOVERS, PHOTOGRAPHERS, TRAIL RUNNERS. PERFECT FOR ALL. The Gower Hotel, not only offers a prime location for those couple night stays in-between business trips or family visits, most importantly we offer everyone the feeling of luxury in our well appointed boutique rooms, but we are the best hotel for those long weekends, or that week away and to reall explore Gower peninsula in your ownfortime. The Gower the Hotel, not only offers a prime location those couple night stays in-between business trips orWe family visits, importantly we offer everyone have 14most individually designed room, with three exquisite Signature rooms that have their own the feeling of luxury in our well appointed, boutique personalities, style. We offer rooms, but we are and the best hotel foralso those long 2 dog friendly lodges, which means you don’t have to leave your furorbaby behind. rooms are spacious and all our rooms are en-suite with modern weekends, that week awayOur andboutique to really explore the Gower Peninsula in your own time. finishing's. We have 14 individually designed rooms, with three exquisite Signature rooms that have ownfact that we treat each of our guests as part of the family, and As a hotel we take great pridetheir in the personalities, and style. We also offer 2 dog friendlyhave loved it so much they have just kept extending their there have been times where our guests lodges, stays.which means you don’t have to leave your fur baby behind. Our boutique rooms are spacious and all our rooms are en-suite with modern furnishings.

On site, we have our fine dining restaurant,

As a hotel we take great pride in the fact that we treat Monroe’s which is headed up byand Dean Parker each of our guests as part of the family, there Ourbeen Executive Chefour with ourhave owner, have times where guests lovedand it so much they have just kept extending Food Developer Mark Evans.their stays. On site, we have our fine dining restaurant, Monroe’s, Ourisfood hasupalready receiving rave which headed by Deanbeen Parker, our Executive Chef with our owner and Food Developer Mark reviews with foodie fans finding our restaurant Evans. to be a destination in itself, transporting diners Our has already beenspoilt, receiving rave reviews tofood a feeling of being glamour and with foodie fans finding our restaurant to be a With professional and great service. – you can destination in itself, transporting diners to a feeling of not spoilt, go wrong. being glamour and with professional and great service – What’s stopping you?

See you youwhen whenyou you See visit us visit us atGower The Gower at The Hotel Hotel AT A G L A N C E Fine Dining Capacity Venue Room Capacity Gardens & Terraces Bridal Suite Civil Ceremonies Total Guest Rooms Lodges Boutique Signature Parking Corporate Events Team Building Retreats

42 150 Yes Yes Yes 14 5 6 3 Yes Yes Yes Yes

Get in Contact +44 (0) 1792 234111 www.thegowerhotel.com THEGowerHotelOfficial @thegowerhotel info@thegowerhotel.com 11 Church Lane, Bishopston, Swansea SA3 3JT

LIMITED OFFER!

Room Special £100

Limited offer!

Room Special

PER ROOM • PER NIGHT Including Breakfast £100 per room per night

Including Breakfast

FOOD & DRINK

THE PERFECT TOAD IN THE HOLE A true British classic, toad in the hole never goes out of style. The combination of crisp, airy batter with sausages cooked until sticky and browned is perfect for a British winter. Our sausages are always popular, both on our stall and online. We make a variety of flavours, many of which work well in toad in the hole, although my personal favourites for this recipe are our traditional pork sausages or our Cumberland sausages. Serves 4

For the onion gravy

YOU WILL NEED...

n 1 litre vegetable stock

For the toad in the hole n 8 sausages n 3 tbsp sunflower oil – or enough to cover the base of your roasting tin n 150g flour n 3 large eggs n 200ml milk n salt

AUTUMN

WARMERS

(we favour Marigold vegetable bouillon) n 2 large onions n 1.5 tbsp flour n 1 tsp gravy browining n 2 tsp mushroom ketchup n 1 tbsp sunflower oil

METHOD...

1. Preheat oven to 220 degrees centigrade/gas mark 7 2. Put the oil and sausages in a roasting tin and cook for15-20 minutes until sausages are nicely browned. 3. Meanwhile, make the batter by beating together the flour, milk and eggs (ideally in a food processor) 4. Pour the batter into the roasting tin and return to the oven for 15-20 minutes. Do not open the oven until at least 15 minutes have passed or your batter may sink. 5. Meanwhile make the onion gravy: fry the onions gently in the sunflower oil for 10-15 minutes until soft and golden (but not burnt). 6. Add the flour then stir until it’s as smooth as you can get it, then start adding the stock little by little, stirring vigorously between additions to get rid of lumps. Continue until all the stock is used up. 7. Add the gravy browining and mushroom ketchup and keep the gravy simmering until the toad is ready. 8. Serve the toad in the hole with lashings of onion gravy and vegetables of your choice.

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As we approach Halloween, bonfire night and the run up to Christmas, our thoughts turn to hearty, warming food. For Gower butcher Catherine Butler, there’s no better time of year to get busy in the kitchen then with her excellent local meats. Here are some sure-fire ways to use them. Hugh Phillips Gower Butchers is based at Wern Fabian Farm, Llanmorlais, Gower, and has a stall in the heart of Swansea Market. You can also buy their produce online at www.bestonlinebutcher.co.uk.

WELSH BEEF IN ALE WITH HERBY DUMPLINGS Few things go down better on a winter’s evening than beef cooked in ale. This is recipe one of the very best ways to cook Welsh beef – especially when topped with fluffy dumplings. All of our beef is Welsh, fully traceable and slaughtered at our farm – so you can be assured it is local, and has racked up very low food miles. Serves 4 YOU WILL NEED...

used Brains Dark

For the beef in ale:

n 2 beef stock cubes

n 5 medium brown onions, sliced

n 2 tbsp mushroom ketchup

n 1kg diced stewing steak n A couple of tablespoons of

For the dumplings:

olive oil – enough to cover the base of your roasting tin n 1 bay leaf n 100g plain flour n 3 bottles of good dark ale –we

n 100g self raising flour n 50g Atora suet n 5 tbsp water n 1 tsp mixed dried herbs n Salt and pepper

METHOD...

Preheat oven to 180 degrees centigrade/gas mark 4 1. Fry the onions for 5-10 minutes until soft in an ovenproof pot. Choose one with a lid – you’ll need this once it goes in the oven. 2. Put the beef in a bowl and stir in the flour until all the chunks of beef are coated. 3. Put the beef into the pot and stir until browned. 4. Add the ale, bay leaf, mushroom ketchup and stock cubes. 5. Put the lid on, pop the pot in the oven and cook for 2 hours, checking occasionally. If it starts to look dry, top up with water. 6. Meanwhile, make the cumplings by combining all the ingredients and mixing until you have a ball of dough. Divide this into 8 balls.

MOROCCAN-STYLE WELSH LAMB HOT POT Serves 4

n 1 litre chicken stock

YOU WILL NEED...

n A 350g jar of preserved lemons

n 5 medium brown onions, sliced n 1kg diced lamb n A couple of tablespoons of

olive oil – enough to cover the base of your pan n 6 garlic cloves n 1 heaped tbsp cumin n 1 heaped tsp ground ginger n A tiny pinch of saffron

– or about 10 small preserved lemons n 1 400g tin chick peas n 2 large cinnamon quills n Salt and a generous grind of ground pepper n 1 350g jar of pitted green olives n 1 bunch fresh coriander n 1 bunch fresh flat leaf parsley

7. Put the dumplings in the pot and pop the lid on, then cook for 10 minutes. 8. Take the lid off and cook for a further 10-15 minutes until the dumplings have browned. 9. Remove from the oven and serve with your choice of veg and potatoes.

METHOD...

Preheat oven to 180 degrees centigrade/gas mark 4 1. Fry the onions for 5-10 minutes until soft in an ovenproof pot. Choose one with a lid – you’ll need this once it goes in the oven. For the last couple of minutes add the garlic. 2. Add the lamb and stir until browned. 3. Add the ground spices and stir for about 30 seconds before adding the stock, chick peas, cinnamon quills and lemons. Season with salt and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. 4. Put the lid on, pop the pot in the oven and cook for 2 hours, checking occasionally. If it starts to look dry, top up with water. 5. Add the olives and cook for a further 20-30 mins. 6. While it finishes cooking, chop the parley and coriander and cook rice or couscous as an accompaniment. 7. Remove the pot, sprinkle on the herbs and serve.

swansealife.co.uk 83

FOOD & DRINK

SUPERMARKET SWEEP Fancy tasting something different? We love these alternative wine labels from the supermarket. LAURA DAVIES goes wine shopping laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

It’s a wine crime we’re all guilty of. Buying the same bottle of wine every time we go to the supermarket. We ponder, challenge ourselves to be more adventurous, try to get to grips with the tasting notes, feel daunted, and end up picking the familiar label winking at us from the New World shelf. After all, we’ve tried it before, it tasted good, and we don’t want to make a silly mistake, right? Well, to save your blushes and challenge your taste buds, we’re on a mission to get you out of that wine rut. No matter what your favourite style is, here’s how to make the switch from sauvignon blanc, move away from merlot and pass on pinot grigio - while bagging a a delicious, come-hither wine that you wouldn’t normally take home.

@LawsDx

INSTEAD OF SAUVIGNON BLANC

Waitrose Vina Taboexa Albarino 2016, Rias Baixas, Spain, £8.29, Waitrose, Cowbridge A lesser known white variety and a perfect seafood white, albarino shares the same bright, clean flavours of a New Zealand savvy blanc, but with a touch of minerality and juicy acidity that keeps it lively and fresh.

INSTEAD OF CHARDONNAY

INSTEAD OF PROSECCO

Etoile de Nuit Viognier 2015, France, £5, Asda, Gorseinon and Llansamlet If you love the tropical notes of a rich chardonnay, but think some heady florals would make it even more attractive, then viognier is a delicious discovery. The blossomy scents and generous fruit flavours sing from the glass.

Paul Mas Sparkling Picpoul Chardonnay, France, £10, Morrisons, Parc Pemberton and Port Talbot We appreciate prosecco for its light, fresh taste and soft bubbles. Balanced and stylish, this sparkler from the South of France blends rich, creamy chardonnay with light, zesty picpoul for a touch more fruity freshness with pretty aromatics.

INSTEAD OF BORDEAUX

INSTEAD OF PINOT GRIGIO

TTD Vermentino Del Salento 2016, Italy, £9, Sainsbury’s, Swansea Why not try a vermentino as your new house white? Its fresh acidity means it’s just as easy drinking as pinot grigio, with a few extra peach and floral notes for something a little more complex. Usually from Sardinia, this one hails from Puglia.

TTD Chateau Tanunda Barossa Red Blend 2014, Australia, £10, Sainsbury’s, Swansea If a Bordeaux is your fail-safe Sunday roast red, why not give an Australian blend a go. Talented winemakers in Australia are increasingly imitating classic Bordeaux blends and this will go just as well with everything on the grill.

INSTEAD RIOJA

INSTEAD OF MERLOT

Pintao Reserva Carmenere 2015, Chile, £10, M&S, Swansea and Pontarddulais Road Retail Park Chile’s signature grape, for a time carmenere was mistaken for late ripening merlot with similarly ripe dark plum fruits and generous, rounded body. With aromas of black cherry, plums, soft tannins and a hint of spice, it’s definitely the way forward.

84 swansealife.co.uk

Wine Atlas Negroamaro 2016, Italy, £5.48, Asda, Llanelli Our go-to Spanish red that’s easier to pronounce than neh-grohah-mah-roh, why not trade a Rioja for a rich Italian that’s hearty and concentrated with bundles of blackberry fruits, a hint of chocolate and those all important traces of spicy oak.

Beaujolais Nouveau 2017 will be available from ND John Wine Merchants on Thursday 16th November at £7.95 a bottle

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

‘Le Beaujolais Nouveau est arrivé!’ IT’S AS MUCH A PART OF 1980S FOLKLORE AS MASSIVE MOBILE PHONES, SHOULDER PADS AND PERSONAL ORGANISERS. ON THE THIRD THURSDAY OF EVERY NOVEMBER THE CITY OF LONDON WAS AWASH WITH CELEBRATIONS FOR THE ARRIVAL OF BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU FROM FRANCE.

etting hold of the recently pressed, light red wine as quickly as possible became an annual event. Whilst the fanfare and celebrations slowed in the rest of the UK, Swansea has never tired of celebrating Beaujolais Day.

So what is Beaujolais Nouveau? Beaujolais Nouveau is the name given to Beaujolais and BeaujolaisVillages wines which are released almost immediately after harvest. Arguably the most famous expression of the Gamay grape variety, these light, fruity reds are usually the first of the year’s harvest in France. Simple wines made from the freshly harvested grapes have slaked the thirst of vineyard workers at the end of the vintage in Beaujolais for centuries, but traditionally these were distributed only locally. Interest in the style spread following appellation law reform at the end of World War II, and by the 1960s, the

early Beaujolais wines were being sold widely across France upon their release, often with the announcement, ‘Le Beaujolais Nouveau est arrivé!’ Producers of Beaujolais saw the marketing opportunities in being the first wine of the harvest and a ‘race’ to get the first bottle of wine to Paris was implemented by some of the bigger names, promoting the Nouveau style and attracting international interest. In the 1970s and 1980s, Beaujolais Nouveau grew into a worldwide phenomenon, with a particular following in the United States, Japan and Germany. By law, sales of the wine are restricted until one minute past midnight on the third Thursday of November. While sales have decreased dramatically since the 1980s, around half of all wine made in the Beaujolais region is still sold as Nouveau. As for how much of that is consumed in Swansea - the Friday morning headaches suggest quite a large proportion of it!

AvAilAble 1st - 23rd december christmAs bookings now being tAken 4 course Festive Menu Mon, tues & Wed ÂŁ17.90 thurs, Fri & sat ÂŁ19.90.

PArty bookings welcome parties oF 10 and above party organiser eats free

855 Llangyfelach Road, Treboeth,Swansea, SA5 9AU Telephone: 01792 700491 | www.theeagletreboeth.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Fright Night Treats... LAURA DAVIES picks out supermarket Halloween treats

Home cooking with Sian Day

A deliciously simple recipe for October... Halloween Decorate Your Own Ghost Train, £5, Morrisons, Port Talbot

Gingerbread Skeleton Biscuits (2 pack) £1, Morrisons, Parc Pemberton

Salted caramel popcorn The leaves are falling and the mornings are crisper. Nothing beats Autumn and that feeling of winter just ahead, getting cosy and lining up some catch-up tv or old films to watch. As the long winter months awaits, I am sure you will be in need of some comforting homemade treats. The smell of freshly popped corn is hard to beat! Especially when hot, buttery sweet and homemade caramel permeates the air, which then calls for the popcorn to be sprinkled with freshly ground sea salt! This recipe is so easy and takes just a few simple ingredients to take your popcorn to a whole new level! ‘Gourmet’ corn is really on trend in the foodie world right now, so here’s how to keep your household smiling this winter.

Lemon and S-Lime Popcorn, £1.50, M&S, Swansea Mini Gingerbread Mummies 45g, £1.50, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre Pumpkin Percy, £1.65, M&S, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park

YOU WILL NEED... n 120g butter n 2tbls vegetable or sunflower oil n 165g popcorn kernels n 2 cups dark brown sugar n ½ tsp sea salt n Turn the oven on to 170 degrees

METHOD Place the oil and corn into a large heavy based saucepan and pop on the lid cook on a medium heat for approximately 7 minutes when you hear the corn beginning to pop give the saucepan a shake to ensure it doesn’t burn on the bottom. When the popping sound subsides turn off the heat.

Petrifying Pumpkin Smash Cake, £13, Asda, Llanelli

Meanwhile take two baking trays and rub with a little butter. Transfer the cooked corn between the two trays and set aside. In a heavy based saucepan bring the butter and sugar up to a boil and let it bubble until it turns a lovely caramel colour for about 5 to 6 minutes keeping a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn. Then pour the caramel over the two trays of popcorn and give it a good mix to coat it, then bake for 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and give another good stir and bake for another 5 minutes. Then remove from the oven allow to cool and gently break up the corn and sprinkle with the sea salt. Then serve!

FOLLOW SIAN’S DELICIOUS RECIPES on her blog page, siandaydream.wordpress.com, Facebook or Tweet her @SianDay swansealife.co.uk 87

FOOD & DRINK

Nathan Lloyd’s

A TASTE OF HOME Swansea Life columnist and food blogger Nathan has recently moved to Sweden but is keeping his Swansea roots alive by sharing his recipes and news

The sort of NOMA experience The Nordic region is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, that’s an undisputed fact. But, getting to experience them can be a tricky and expensive undertaking. You could be waiting months or even years for a table. So when when NOMA’s ‘Under The Bridge’ pop-up project began I knew I had to get seats. While René Redzepi, its primary creative mind, is away gathering ingredients and inspiration for NOMA2 (the | re-opening of the 2 Michelin starred and avant-garde restaurant in Copenhagen), the rest of the staff are keeping themselves busy running Under The Bridge. Situated under Knippelsbro Bridge in the middle of the Copenhagen, UTB consists of one long table, big enough to sit 60 people all at once, under the additional cover of a tent. You sit next to strangers, as if your were attending a family meal with people you don’t know, and are encouraged to chat and get to know one another as the five courses are served (complete with wine or drink pairing, naturally). We signed up for a reservation long before we left for Malmö, so by the time it came around we’d already

been living in the region a week or two. So, with great relief and a renewed sense of ‘this is actually happening!’, we sat down at the enormous banquet length table along the other guests. Cosily rustic in look with lots of natural materials for the crockery and decor, a deliberate, well thought out and curated experience and the brain child of many dedicated minds. Just outside the tent were a

series of enormous coal grills that filled the space with that lovely barbecue aroma, especially as various courses were prepared or finished on it. To make itself distinctive from Noma, the cuisine of UTB is influenced by different dishes and cuisines from around the world. Bar the odd touch of flair, there’s no new Nordic flashiness as the emphasis is firmly on big flavours and a homely, sit

down environment. The first course was grilled focaccia with horseradish served with a biodynamic rosé (which tasted like a sharp and punchy, naturally cloudy cider). The was followed by a vegetable and fish based broth, then build your own tacos made from cabbage leaves, wild flowers and fried prawns. The main course was a much more Scandinavian affair - cod, capers and a buttery squid ink sauce, served with potatoes and cauliflower. Even though there was flare and talent on display, there wasn’t a hint of pretention to what was served - dish after dish was hearty and honest. Dessert was a blueberry ice cream sandwich, which looked quite unassuming but packed a mighty flavour punch with coffee. Afterwards we were encouraged to sit outside along the waterfront and watch the sun go down with a beer (or more wine). Flights to Copenhagen, even in school holidays are very reasonable if you catch them midweek and in advance. You can fly from a range of UK airports, including Bristol, and as a weekend break destination it’s hard to beat for what’s on offer in terms of food, drink and culture.

Whole Roasted Cauliflower One of the downsides of living abroad is the lack of homely comforts like a good roast dinner. Here’s a perfect cheap and vegan solution for those days when you just want something tasty that reminds you of home. The upside with this is that it’s so easy to mak, even Grandad could make it! INGREDIENTS: n A whole head of cauliflower n 3 tbs gravy granules (I used Bisto- Original (red)) n 3tbs cornflour n 1tsp dried thyme n 1tbs dried parsley n 1tsp mustard powder (I used Coleman’s) n 1tsp garlic powder (Available from Flying Tiger Copenhagen) n 1tsp onion powder (Available from Flying Tiger Copenhagen) n 1tsp ground black pepper

88 swansealife.co.uk

METHOD: Simply wash the cauliflower and carve off any stalk and unsightly bits from the main body. Pat down with a towel and pre-heat the oven to a nice 180°C. In a bowl, place all the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. Then, start adding water, bit-by-bit, until a thick, savoury paste has formed. Now, prepare to get messy! Use your hands (cleaned, of course) to cover the whole cauliflower with the paste. This will form a nice herby crust as it roasts in the oven. Make sure the cauli is evenly covered and place in the oven in a baking tray. Roast for roughly 50 minutes, before taking it out and turning the baking tray. Place in for a further 20 minutes. Once this is done, take it out and pierce the centre with a skewer, to check that it has fully cooked. If not, place it back in for a further 10 minutes. Once it has finished, leave to slightly cool before serving. I’d recommend serving it with a medley of vegetables and a classic British onion gravy, which I make from using

Bisto Original (red pot), the cooking water from all of the veg and some fried onions. I also served mine with some homemade stuffing, of which I’ll post the recipe soon! Enjoy!

Best places to Eat

NOW K O O B

MUMBLES

The Kitchen Table Mumbles

TMAS S I R H FOR C

626 Mumbles Rd, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4EA Tel: 01792 367616 • www.thekitchentablemumblesblog.wordpress.com

We are a cosy and independently run cafe style restaurant offering wholesome, home cooked and locally sourced food. The only Gluten-free dining restaurant mentioned on the Gluten-free Facebook in Swansea & Mumbles. We cater for Vegan and vegetarians. FREE Americano Coffee or Welsh Brew Tea with every breakfast ordered before 12 Mon - Thurs. Sri Lankan curry night last Thursday of every month with 20% off takeaway. FREE Cobra Beer with every Thali Plate. Terms and conditions apply.

SWANSEA

The Smiths Arms 51-52 Neath Road, Hafod, SA1 2HR Tel: 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. Book now for your Christmas party.

MUMBLES

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

New for winter 2017 Fortes popular BYO bistro is returning for Christmas. Our 4 course Italian menu starts from £25 pp. Relaxed and warm atmosphere, perfect for those cold winter evenings. Open on Thursday, Friday and Saturdays through December. Also available for private hire. Email us for menu and availability. Cafe is open as usual for breakfast, jacket potatoes, paninis, etc 7 days a week October to February 10-4.

Best places to Eat SWANSEA VALLEY

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

You are invited to an All Hallows Ghost Tour and Castle History Tour the next day. Book now for Halloween, Tuesday 31st October, or Pre-Halloween, Saturday 28th October: • • • •

Ensuite Accommodation 5-Hour Ghost Tour 3-Course Meal Haunted Bar

• Full Cooked Breakfast the next day, followed by Castle History Tour

£99 per person - Call today 01639 73 11 67

Also selected dates for Ghost Tours coming soon

Saturday 28th 2pm-6pm Halloween Extravaganza for kids £8 www.mosthauntedcastle.com/halloween.html

THE NEW ABERCRAVE INN WELCOMES YOU TO THE NEWLY REFURBISHED B&B ROOMS SERVING FOOD DAILY SUNDAY LUNCHES

LUNCHTIME SPECIAL OFFER MON-FRI

£6.95

TRY OUR DELICIOUS FAMOUS BBQ RIBS BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY NOW

145 Heol Tawe, Abercrave, Swansea Valley, SA9 1XS Tel: 01639 731002 | www.abercraveinn.co.uk

'Flavour of Wales & Faraway Places' Small plates with big flavours. Based in Swansea Marina, The Swigg has a Welsh DNA and an authentic, local heart. The team at The Swigg have a culinary ambition to celebrate the beauty of Swansea and the Gower with the outstanding quality of locally sources, seasonal ingredients. Don't miss our monthly 6 course vegan taster (last Wednesday of every month) and 6 course meat and fish taster (last Thursday of every month)

BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS

New Autumn/Winter menus available

1b National Waterfront Museum, Swansea SA1 3RD | Tel 01792 655666 | www.theswigg.net

House & home

THROUGH THE KEYHOLE (page 94) AUTUMN HOME TRENDS (page 98) LESLEY TAYLOR (page 109) WOODLAND WALKS (page 122)

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

HOUSE & HOME

THROUGH THE KEYHOLE When you can put on a charity garden party or two, you know your house is on the special side. It is not bad inside either, as CHRIS PEREGRINE reports. chris.peregrine@trinitymirror.com

SPACIOUS HOME AND

HEN they arrived at their new home 10 years ago, Professor Peter Sloane and his wife Avril were more than happy with improvements that had been made before purchase.

All they have done is to put in a few further modern touches to keep ahead of things. It means the next owners will find a four bedroom house in the Mayals area of Swansea, offering space inside and outside.It has a hall, a roomy lounge, a study or indeed a fifth bedroom, a sitting room, a fully fitted kitchen with open plan dining room off it, a utility room and a cloakroom. Upstairs there are four double bedrooms,a master en-suite and family bathroom. The property has a fabulous south west facing large rear garden, off road parking for several vehicles and a single garage. “We thought we would have a change of scenery,” said Peter, who

94 swansealife.co.uk

is an emeritus professor at Swansea University. “We are looking at Shropshire or Herefordshire.” But when the time comes, they will look back fondly at their life in Swansea and their current home. “It has got a nice garden,” said Peter. “There is a procession of trees around the back, which makes it nice and secluded. We do keep the garden in shape. We have held two hog roasts there for Macmillan Cancer Support. We have had 90 people there in marquees and a small band.” It is, of course, not all about outdoor life. “We have got four double bedrooms and a nice lounge,” he said. “It has had a new kitchen in the last two or three years. The house was modernised just before we got there, and that appealed to us. We have made further alterations. We have enjoyed it here.” The property has two porches, a storm porch with a slate tiled roof and outside light, and an entrance one with a UPVC double

GARDEN IS PERFECT FIT glazed entrance door and side panel. The spacious hall, with a glazed inner door, has a double cloaks cupboard, an understairs storage cupboard and a radiator in a feature decorative cabinet. The cloakroom comes with storage cupboards and a shelf, oak effect laminate flooring and inset ceiling spotlights. There is a spacious light and airy lounge with a uPVC double glazed window overlooking the rear garden. Two radiators, coving to the ceiling and a recessed feature electric log effect fire are other elements. Both the sitting room and study, which could be converted into an extra bedroom, have a radiator and coving to the ceiling. The kitchen is one of the focal points with a range of features, including a central island with wine cooler and larder unit with matching granite worktop providing seating for four people. There is an archway to the dining room, which has UPVC double glazed bi-folding doors opening onto the rear garden. A utility room adds to ground floor possibilities.

The master bedroom has three built in wardrobes, while the ensuite scores highly. As well as three other bedrooms, there is a family bathroom. Outside is a paved patio area with mature hedged boundaries, shrubs and flower beds, another large paved patio area with three electric awnings, a third side paved patio and a garden shed. There is outside lighting, a tap, external power points and an integral single garage with power and light.

PROPERTY: 5 Willowbrook Gardens, Mayals, Swansea, SA3 5EB PRICE: ÂŁ669,000 BEDROOMS: 4 AGENT: Simpsons, Newton Road, Mumbles, 01792 361144

swansealife.co.uk 95

www.pablack.co.uk

Sketty Park Road SWANSEA

Gower Road Swansea

• Impressive detached family home in landscaped gardens • Six double bedrooms & study • Four reception rooms, bespoke kitchen/breakfast room • Gated entrance, ample parking, double & triple garage • Four bath/shower rooms • Part Exchange considered

• Detached residence with sea views to the front • Five bedrooms • Three reception rooms • Fitted kitchen/breakfast room • Long front and rear garden • Viewing highly recommended

For sale with pa black Swansea 01792 641481

Llys Y Nant Glais • Detached Executive Home • Three Floors • Six Bedrooms • Three Reception Rooms • Garage. Rear Garden • Popular Residential Area For sale with pa black Morriston 01792 798201

Offers Over £380,000

£1,000,000

£600,000

Millwood Gardens Swansea

Marina Villas Maritime Quarter

• Impeccably well presented 4/5 bedroom detached house. • Bespoke kitchen/dining room. • Versatile living space. • 3 bath/shower rooms. • Sun room/outbuilding. • Lawn and patio to rear garden

• Very well presented versatile family home • 32' first floor living space: kitchen/dining/sitting • Principal bedroom with vaulted ceiling & en suite shower room • Three further bedrooms • Parking for at least four cars • Adjacent to Marina and beach

For sale with pa black Swansea 01792 641481

For sale with pa black Swansea Marina 01792 463780

£350,000

£318,000

www.pablack.co.uk

The Bryn Swansea

Clyne Neath

• A highly individual versatile detached family home • Three reception rooms • Four bedrooms • En suite to principal bedroom • Very large fitted kitchen/dining/family living • Mature Gardens creating a garden atrium For sale with pa black Swansea 01792 641481

• Individual five bedroom detached house • Stunning bespoke kitchen/living/dining room • Living room with minstrels gallery and wood burning stove • Five double bedrooms 4 suite shower rooms and bathroom • Landscaped gardens, outbuilding, attached garage £658,000

For sale with pa black Neath 01639 635115

OIRO £450,000

Clyne Castle Swansea

Cadoxton Neath

St Catherines Court Swansea Marina

• A grand first floor two bedroom apartment • Stunning principal reception room with panoramic views • Fully fitted kitchen • Luxury bathroom suites and a cloakroom • Set in historic parkland • Many restored period features

• Spacious 5 bedroom detached house set in about 2.5 acres • Panoramic views to Swansea Bay • 2/3 reception rooms • Kitchen/breakfast room • Substantial garaging • A private secluded woodland setting

• Very well presented versatile four bedroom family home • 37' first floor living space: kitchen/dining/living room • Kitchen/Dining room with sit-out balcony overlooking the square • Master bedroom with en suite and Juliette balcony • Walking distance of the Marina and beach • Garage conversion into store and office

For sale with pa black Swansea 01792 641481

£375,000

OIRO £375,000

For sale with pa black Swansea Marina 01792463780

£300,000

HOUSE & HOME

MOODY BLOOMS

Delft Flower Graphite fabric

A berry-hued palette of blueberry, cherry, deep plum and purple, paired with designs featuring lush blooms, is a chic, seasonal way to interpret the fashionably botanical trend. This season sees collections draw inspiration from the humble tulip bulb

Aubriet Amethyst Cushion, £95, designersguild.com

Moody Blooms Floral Romance Occasional Table, from £160, miafleur.com

HOME TRENDS

AUTUMN

Arthouse Eastern floral Velvet Cushion, £19.99, Very.co.uk

While the temperature may be dropping as autumn arrives, there’s no need to feel the chill indoors. Moody blues, oversized florals and woodland settings are the new-season interiors trends to covet. LAURA DAVIES looks at the three hottest new decor trends which are rich with glowing colour, pattern and detail. Floralism Velvet Stool, £270, The FrenchBedroomCompany.co.uk

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Hare Lamp, £30, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Crop Print Bedlinen, Double Bed Linen Set, £21, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Jonanna Chair, in Matt Velvet Mustard, from £499, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Squirrel Print Cushion, £9, B&Q, Morfa Retail Park and Parc Trostre

WOODLAND WALK Our love affair with nature and the great outdoors continues, and one of the easiest ways to refresh an interior is to take inspiration from the countryside. Woodland walk captures the tones and textures of an autumnal country walk, creating a cosy living space with warm aubergine and mulberry colours, used across chunky knits and patterned textiles. These shades pop against mustard and duck egg blue tones, seen on ceramics and home accessories, complementing this classic look. There are figures in a rich, brass metallic finish, all finishing touches for an interior which is cosy, nurturing and perfect for autumn. 98 swansealife.co.uk

Mulberry Check Throw, £15, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Stockholm 2017 Two-Seat Sofa, £895; Pouffe, £85; Billy/Oxberg Bookcase, £190; Stockholm Nest of Tables, £160; Boja Pendant Light, £55, Ikea, Cardiff

Hendrix Small Corner Sofa, Scala Velvet Cobalt, £1,699, M&S, Swansea

MIDNIGHT TROPICS Deep moody blue shades and a focus on texture and luxury come together for this opulent trend. Midnight Tropics sees the summery tropical theme continue and develop throughout the autumn and winter. Instead of featuring bright and playful colours, this trend pairs rich, dark tones - such as navy and emerald green - with accents of brass and gold, to create an exotic and luxurious look with a touch of opulence. Accessorising with succulents and tropical plants is key, as is artwork and patterns that take their cue from nature, and in particular, feature foliage. Many major home brands have embraced this luxe look, including M&S with its Manhattan collection. It has a rich palette of inky matte black and brass accents, and is inspired by the opulence of New York’s luxury hotels, with details including soft velvets and green marble, mixed with bold monochrome furniture.

Linea Midnight Garden Sapphire Vase, £38, House of Fraser, Cardiff

JL Cole & Son Palm Wallpaper, Jungle, ink/grey, £82; Duresta Carnaby Chair, Harrow Velvet Navy, £1,249; West Elm Pedestal Side Table, £399, John Lewis, Cardiff

Throw, Dark Green, £20, Ikea, Cardiff

Stockholm 2017 Pouffe, in Sandbacka Dark blue, £85, Ikea, Cardiff swansealife.co.uk 99

Regionally 32 offices throughout the South West Nationally 225 offices across Great Britain

THE OLD COW SHED, SKETTY, SWANSEA

PLAS NEWYDD, MUMBLES, SWANSEA

Magnificent home in a glorious setting, winning the Building Excellence Award in 2010. With stunning open plan living areas/kitchen, lounge, 6 beds, 4 shower/ bathrooms and beautiful grounds with a range of outdoor entertaining spaces. EPC C

This home is very private & generous & is bestowed with lovely grounds. Briefly comprising kitchen/breakfast room, 4 living areas, 6 beds, 3 en-suites, 1 family bathroom & sauna. There is a double garage & ample parking. EPC C

Asking Price £1,100,000

Asking Price £925,000

GREENACRE, SOUTHGATE, GOWER

GELLIDOC FARM, LLANNON, LLANELLI

Perfectly located in the Gower coastal village of Southgate. This well loved detached family home presents 4 receptions, family bathroom and 4 beds including a substantial master bedroom with en-suite. Ample parking & beautiful south facing garden. EPC D

Full of character with fabulous countryside grounds & views, it is a home which is a complete joy to discover. Comprising 4 beds, 4 receptions & 3 bath/shower rooms. There is a wealth of outdoor spaces, professional kennels, chicken runs & storage barn. EPC F

Asking Price £699,500

Asking Price £450,000

SEAWINDS, MUMBLES, SWANSEA

LLYS GWYR, UPPER KILLAY, SWANSEA

With very impressive panoramas, Seawinds offers you a lovely detached family home arranged over 3 floors with, 4 receptions, 4 beds, 2 baths and double detached garage with room above. There is also an outdoor pool & entertainment areas. EPC D

Beautifully presented detached executive home with secure gated entrance. Briefly offering 3 reception rooms, kitchen/diner, utility, study, conservatory, cloakroom, 4 beds, master en-suite & 2 family bathrooms. Countryside outlook & ample parking. EPC C

Asking Price £1,200,000

Asking Price £540,000

Internationally Plus 75 offices globally 5000 professional associates all around the world

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

VENSLAND, BISHOPSTON, SWANSEA

PUMSAINT, LLANWRDA, N CARMARTHENSHIRE

A spacious detached bungalow provides 3 receptions, 4 double beds, 3 bathrooms, fitted kitchen & utility room. Vensland is a large, incredibly versatile property conveniently located within walking distance of local shops, schools, restaurants & nearby Pwll Du Bay. EPC D

Nestled among the most impressive countryside setting, surrounded by fields, forests, mountains and rivers in beautiful Mid-Wales countryside. This modern family 4 bedroom farmhouse stands in manicured grounds with an attached riverside meadow, in all approx 3.7 acres.

Asking Price £775,000

Asking Price £765,000

Regionally 18 offices throughout the region Nationally 225 offices across Great Britain Internationally Plus 75 offices globally 5000 professional associates all around the world

THE GRANGE, MIDDLETON, GOWER

GLEBE FARM, RHOSSILI, GOWER

Beautiful, modern detached 5 bedroom home is finished to the highest standards, providing a lovely family home. Providing generous accommodation and wonderful outside entertaining areas. Quiet coastal location with sea glimpses, close to Rhossili. EPC C

An incredible location overlooking the world famous Rhossili beach. Glebe Farm is beautifully finished & briefly comprises kitchen, utility/walk in shower, lounge, dining room & 4 beds. Generous grounds of large lawn area, decking, patio, gazebo/bar & hot tub. EPC C

Offers Over £650,000

Asking Price £895,000

BAY VIEW, WEST CROSS, SWANSEA

CNAP LLWYD RD, MORRISTON, SWANSEA

A spacious, detached family house presenting 3 receptions, kitchen/diner, 4 beds, 3 bath/shower rooms, utility & double garage. A convenient location within easy reach of coastal villages, beaches, city amenities & excellent public transport links. EPC B

Stunning park & countryside views from this beautiful 6 bed detached home. Very generous living areas & sought after open plan kitchen/diner. Vaulted ceilings & modern interiors create a lovely family home. Private garden, sizeable balcony off the lounge & ample parking. EPC C

Asking Price £595,000

Offers Over £375,000

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

Advertisement Feature

YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR LAND AND NEW HOMES

Dawsons Property is the only Swansea estate agent to have a dedicated Land and New Homes office. Jenny White takes a look at some of the stunning developments currently on offer, and discovers why dealing with a specialist makes such a difference.

f you’re seeking a newly built dream home, or want to buy or sell land, Dawsons can help you every step of the way. The trusted estate agent runs Swansea’s only dedicated Land and New Homes office. The department, headed up by partner Tim Kostromin, was founded in 2006 when Dawsons was appointed preferred agent for the prestigious 291 apartment Meridian Quay development.

“We had talked about setting up the department for some time because we had a lot of in-house expertise, but this seemed like the right time to do it,” says Tim. “I’m pleased to say we

haven’t looked back, and from humble beginnings on Walter Road we moved into our current Meridian Quay office, Swansea Marina, in 2010.” Over the years Tim’s department has dealt with numerous prestigious new developments, including 27 exclusive apartments in Grade II-listed Langland Bay Manor; 10 executive family homes in Bethany Lane, Mumbles; and 13 luxurious properties at the site of the former Langland Court Hotel. On its list at present are Westwinds, Langland, a collection of elite homes; Gower Court, a development of 5 executive detached houses at the top of

Mayals Road; and nine beautiful new homes adjacent to Sketty School. Tim’s office also handles smaller developments, individual, bespoke properties, self builds and the sale and sourcing of land for development – and its service goes far beyond sales. “With land disposal we can advise on current market values, and on the obstacles that can stand in your way due to planning policy,” says Tim. “If you are developing land, we can advise on reputable architects and town planners, and on important matters to consider before submitting a planning application. When it comes

Westwinds, Langland

to designing properties to go on the land, we can advise on current trends to ensure the developer creates the type of houses people really want.” Dawsons also works with several housing associations, advising them on demand for different property types, sizes and accommodation layouts. From a customer’s point of view, Dawsons is able to offer a truly bespoke service, working with developers to make changes to property designs that will suit an individual buyer’s needs, and working with the buyer to select flooring, colour schemes, bathrooms and kitchens. By collaborating with digital companies such as iCREATE, it can also offer computer generated images and fly-throughs of properties to give the buyer a true feel of what their new home will look like. Hand picked as the regional member of the Land & New Homes Network, Dawsons is linked to other expert land and new homes estate agents across the UK, meaning they can easily put a home buyer in touch with a trusted agent in any area they want to move to. The network also brings buyers to Dawsons, which has the largest selection of new homes in Swansea. Tim loves the specialised nature of his work, and the diversity it brings. “I’m very proud of our team, all of whom are trained specialists in land and new homes,” he says. “Our role is very different from other types of estate agents, in that we are involved at every stage right through to putting the final tweaks on the finished product. I’m very lucky in that I love what I do – no two days are the same, and I enjoy seeing a development go from an open field to handing the keys over to the new home owner.”

SELECTION OF CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS WESTWINDS | LANGLAND Dawsons are delighted to be continuing a long-standing relationship with Liberty Properties (Homes) Ltd, acting for what has to be one of Swansea’s most prestigious collections of properties to date. Westwinds offers just four truly exceptional properties of two styles. Occupying a prime location in Swansea’s most desirable postcodes, overlooking Langland Bay, the properties have been designed by renowned local Architect Hugh Griffiths, to satisfy a niche market.

GOWER COURT | MAYALS This beautifully presented collection of just five detached luxurious family homes sits in the leafy and sought-after suburb of Mayals. Gower Court is the latest offering by local, award winning, Clews Homes, whose name is synonymous with luxury and design. Clews Homes is now one of the most respected developers in South Wales.

BAY VIEW COURT | TYCOCH Situated on Llwyn Mawr Road, this beautiful development boasts one of Swansea’s very best views. Created by Purnell Homes, a highly regarded Gower developer, Bay View Court offers a choice of nine substantial detached properties of varying styles. Purnell Homes has a reputation for providing homes of the utmost quality and design. These properties have been aimed at the purchaser who is looking to acquire a property at the highest level in their chosen area.

HOUSE & HOME

1. NEAR THE BEACH For luxury living near the beach, look no further than this fivebedroom property in Gower. The home, which comes with a separate four-bedroom annexe building called the Coach House, is just a five-minute walk from Pobbles beach and also boasts spectacular views over both Three Cliffs and Oxwich Bay. Price: £2,650,000 Where: Southgate, Gower It’s on the market with Fine and Country. Image: fineandcountry.com

LUXURY LIVING These are some of the most expensive – and most impressive – homes that are being sold in Swansea now. VICTORIA JONES takes a look inside

2. COUNTRY LIVING Chantry Acre is an impressive country house that has been re-built (work started in 1985 and continued into the 1990s). The original house was part of the Chantry Acre Estate and dates back to 1920s. It has four reception rooms and six bedrooms (four are en-suite). Price: £2,500,000 Where: Bishopston It’s on the market with Savills Image: Savills.co.uk

3. FAMILY LIVING Set over three floors with six double bedrooms and vast living space, the property welcomes family living with the additional enjoyment of an indoor swimming pool. The property has window tinting technology allowing you to enjoy the special views whilst ensuring privacy. The ground floor houses underfloor heating and built-in Sonos sound system. Price: £1,595,000 Where: Langland It’s on the market with Fine and Country. Image: fineandcountry.com

104 swansealife.co.uk

4. SEA VIEWS A beautifully designed home, sympathetically extended and refurbished to take full advantage of the coastal views. The elevated setting creates the illusion of sitting amid the tree tops, and with the uninterrupted views out to sea, offers a spacious open ambience. Price: £1,500,000 Where: Caswell It’s on the market with Gower Coast Properties Image: gowercoastproperties. com

5. SWIMMING POOL There are spectacular sea views from this four-bedroom home which is arranged over three floors. The grounds are lush with greenery and mature plants, which surround the focal point of the swimming pool and patio area Price: £1,200,000 Where: Mumbles It’s on the market with Fine and Country Image: fineandcountry.com

8. BESPOKE A bespoke house built in the 1930s and remodelled by the current owners in 1997, set in its own grounds with elevated sea views across to Swansea Bay, a substantial leisure annexe, double and triple garage. Price: £1,000,000 Where: Sketty Park Road, Sketty It’s on the market with Peter Alan. Image: rightmove.co.uk

7. EXCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT This six-bedroom detached family home sits in the exclusive private development of just six properties, Channel View. The house design provides light, airy, spacious, well proportioned accommodation. Price: £995,000 Where: Langland It’s on the market with Astleys. Image: Astleys.net

6. NEW BUILD The property is a new build with four bedrooms. The entire home is surrounded with gardens and a number of different patio areas, one with a built-in open fireplace. There is also a wooden studio which has electricity, wifi and is insulated. Price: £1,100,000 Where: Sketty It’s on the market with Fine and Country. Image: fineandcountry.com

swansealife.co.uk 105

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105 PENTRE NICKLAUS VILLAGE, LLANELLI SA15 2DF 4 BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE

ÂŁ269,950 Davies Craddock are pleased to offer for sale this detached property with garage set in this prime location on the popular Pentre Nicklaus development in Machynys. This property has good access to local amenities, shops, schools and links to the M4. On the ground floor the property comprises of an entrance hallway, cloakroom, lounge/diner, kitchen, utility room and integral garage. To the first floor there are four bedrooms, one with ensuite and a family bathroom. To the second floor there is another attic room, a shower room and a walk in wardrobe. Externally there is a rear enclosed garden and a driveway and a decorative gravelled frontage. Internal viewing is highly recommended to appreciate what this ideal family home has to offer

4/8 John Street, Llanelli SA15 1UH â&#x20AC;˘ Tel 01554 779412

www.daviescraddock.co.uk

WE’RE NOT JUST BIGGER

WE’RE JUST BETTER On sofas, lamps, bedrooms, mattresses, recliners, dining rooms, rugs,chairs, accessories and much, much more!

48,000 sq.ft Showroom At homestores you will find a superb choice of dining furniture, suites, beds, bedroom furniture and carpets

Free careful delivery Free Parking Free Coffee Come see our Extended Giftware Department In Store

Gorseinon Road, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 1GG Telephone: (01792) 893121

HOUSE & HOME

L E S L E Y

TA Y LO R

STARTING FROM SCRATCH Lesley Taylor draws on the latest interior trends as she opens her new showroom in the heart of Swansea

“

YOU’D THINK THAT WHEN IT COMES TO

DECORATING

MY OWN PLACE

IT WOULD BE A

BREEZE

swansealife.co.uk 109

HOUSE & HOME

GIVEN that I’ve built a career designing homes spanning the entire spectrum of interior design, you’d think that when it comes to decorating my own place it would be a breeze. My ‘place’ is the new Taylor Etc showroom – a shop opening in Mumbles this month. As I would when designing any space, I have been drawing inspiration from the latest home trends, as well as taking into consideration the needs of a retail environment, and in the end I decided to bring an eclectic mix of five of my current favourites. New Traditional: As the name suggests, New Traditional is nostalgic but without being kitschy – it’s very pared down and brings with it the freedom to mix finishes and periods. At the centre of our scheme is a beautiful contemporary sofa in a rich navy velvet with an inviting appearance and is extremely comfortable when seated. New Traditional is a scheme making waves across the Pond and is winging its way fast to the UK. We’ve used it to inspire clients in our interior design area. Mid-Century Modern: I’ve been designing home cinemas in the residential market for a while, and I thought it would be great to show off some of the home automation technology needed in the showroom. So for my meeting room we’ve created a timeless Mid-Century Modern media-space, with Scandi-inspired furniture, wooden floors and a feature wall of 3D ceramic hexagonal tiles in white and gold. It’s a look that is very easy to replicate in a domestic setting and as this era of furnishings has now established itself as rather iconic, it is one that will always be in fashion. A home cinema can be easier to achieve than you may first think, using a big screen and the latest in home automation, such as curtains to section off the area and dimmable lighting for ambience, both of which can be controlled by the touch of a button. Our ‘boys toys’ room will be used to showcase our interior design ideas to customers. Industrial and dramatic bathrooms: I wanted every element of the store to showcase real design inspiration. That’s why even our customer loos are something I am really proud of. I wanted it to look like a showpiece so I turned to current bathroom trends and decided on a real industrial vibe with an aged floor and crackle-effect brick on the walls in one bathroom. The other is very dramatic with a mirrored wall, navy ceilings and a pictorial wallpaper from the Designers Guild. Tribal: Curved sofas, a nest of tables, overhead feature pendant lighting and woven fabric accessories are all on show in our furniture display – as well as some stunning tribal artwork - and the look would make the perfect lounge for this upcoming season. Mediterranean inspiration: For our tile area, we have looked overseas for inspiration – to an old Mediterranean country home.It’s a style that is set to be huge next spring/summer and our version includes wornedged porcelain tiles as a backdrop, with panels of decorative tiles in the floor as well as a free-standing section of tiles. I find that more and more homeowners are using tiles to create feature walls or areas of interest in their homes, something we have reflected in our design. Bringing current home trends into the new shop has been a fantastic challenge and one that I can’t wait to unveil when we throw open our doors this month.

1. The classic Mid-Century Modern look has helped inspire one area of the new shop 2. The Faded Delft collection from The Baked Tile Company forms the backdrop of the showroom’s tile section 3. Tiles from the 3D Offset Hexagon range from The Baked Tile Company will be showcased in the home cinema area of the new Taylors Etc showroom 4. Cushions and accessories give a designer finish 5. The new showroom will have an interior design section complete with the latest fabric books from top design houses 6. Temporary livery goes up outside the new Taylors Etc showroom in Mumbles

110 swansealife.co.uk

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. based in Cardiff www.taylors etc.co.uk

Great British kitchens Direct from the manufacturer.

Autograph Elements and Contour kitchen £3,466 For all these fully built kitchen units 

Swansea

Nantyﬃn North, SA7 9RF 01792 343 645

Cardiff

Cardiﬀ Gate, CF23 8NL 029 2060 1861

Newport

East Retail Park, NP20 2NW 01633 740 386

65 showrooms nationwide, visit wrenkitchens.com Priced kitchen is for units only and does not include the price of handles, worktops, appliances, sink, tap, props, accessories or small worktop appliances. Price taken 22/08/2017

HOUSE & HOME Blossom Vases Double Oven Gloves, £15, Cath Kidston, Cardiff

Velvet Floor Cushion, £29.99, TK Maxx, Morfa Retail Park

Stained Glass Lightshade, £149.99, HomeSense, Parc Fforestfach

Boutique Floral Embroidered Cushion, £39.50, M&S, Swansea

Inky Spot Placement Tea Towel, £13, Cath Kidson, Cardiff

Linea Midnight Garden Chartreuse Seurat Print Cushion, £15, House of Fraser, Cardiff

Woodland Walk Single Tea Towel Floral, £3, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Oriental Rug, £79.99, HomeSense, Parc Fforestfach

FLOWER POWER

Floral Print Round Cushion, £19.50, M&S, Swansea

Pink Floral Bed Linen, £37.99, HomeSense, Parc Fforestfach

ISABEL SHAW digs up some of this season‘s favourite florals, so you don’t have to get your hands dirty! Mini Rose and Chrysanthemum Faux Floral, £6, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Junipa Rust Floral Print Cushion, £20, House of Fraser,

Small Floral Jug, £12.50, M&S, Swansea

Sainsbury’s Home Set of Three Woodland Faux Flowers, £16, Sainsbury’s, Swansea 112 swansealife.co.uk

Waterside Heritage Mugs (Set of 8), £19.99, Very.co.uk

Gold Floral Tumbler, £6, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Floral Tweed Cushion, £19, M&Co, Cardiff

YOUR DREAM

Kitchen & Bathroom FROM LEEKES

Home Experts FOR

120 YEARS 1897 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2017

Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0800 015 7749 | Online: leekes.co.uk

Quality KITCHENS

Tableware

Your Dream Kitchen Create a perfect cooking space in your dream kitchen. Our studios showcase up to 40 displays in painted finishes, high gloss and wood effect to inspire you. Plus from everyday items to the latest culinary gadgets, discover a range of appliances and tableware to suit the style of your kitchen.

Shop with confidence with our LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEEâ&#x20AC; on Leading Brands including:

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After much legwork we found our dream kitchen at Leekes. We were pleased to support a local company and are delighted with the end result. Leekes were with us all the way and we are very happy with how they listened to our individual needs.

Liz Mason

Book your FREE design consultation at kitchens.leekes.co.uk

LEEKES

CUSTOMER

From start to finish the whole team at Leekes have been great and we cannot recommend them highly enough.Our kitchen has turned out beautifully and exactly how we imagined it to be.

Kel & Abi

Home Experts

Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU

120 YEARS

Tel: 0800 015 7749 | Online: kitchens.leekes.co.uk

FOR

1897 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2017

â&#x20AC;

Terms and conditions apply

Beautiful BATHROOMS

A Relaxing Retreat

Tiles

With up to 50 displays in store to provide design inspiration whether you are looking for a luxury haven, compact cloakroom or functional family bathroom. We have options to suit all styles and budgets from leading brands, and all the finishing touches to help you complete the look.

Storage

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Great reasons to shop at leekes Up to 50 bathrooms and 40 kitchens on display to suit all tastes, styles and budgets

LEEKES

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Expert advice from our experienced teams FREE 3D professional design service FREE pre-fit survey with an approved installer

Our experience with the team at Leekes was exceptional. They interpreted our brief perfectly but also managed and scheduled the whole process for us seamlessly. We are truly delighted with the end result.

Mr & Mrs Halling

Book your FREE bathroom design consultation at leekes.co.uk/bathroom

Home Experts FOR

120 YEARS

Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0800 015 7749 | Online: leekes.co.uk

1897 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2017 â&#x20AC;

Terms and conditions apply

KWIKSAND FLOORING

Before

Sp e

ciali

sts in woode

After

oo ﬂ n

in d n a rs

rbishment u f e r g&

• Dust free sanding • Repairs & Maintenance to existing parquet and plank flooring • New and reclaimed wooden floors supplied & fitted • 15 years experience in wood floor restoration • Domestic, Commercial & Insurance work undertaken

www.kwiksandﬂooring.co.uk enquiries@kwiksandﬂooring.co.uk T: 01269 597014 M: 07528 540646

Before

After

Kwiksand Flooring, 17 Old Road,Ammanford, Carmarthenshire SA18 2ED

Abigail Ahern Lamp, £95, Debenhams, Swansea

HOUSE & HOME

Caption A by Amara Pike Mirror, £200, Amara.com

Linea Midnight Garden Isabelle Vase, £16, House of Fraser, Cardiff

Hanging Hexagon Mirror, £10, George Home, Parc Trostre

Ben Di Lisi Wall Art, £25, Debenhams, Swansea

THIS MONTH

House Metallic Jacquard Cushion, £25, M&S, Swansea

WE LOVE LAURA DAVIES rounds up some of her favourite products this month laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

12 Piece Burford Dinner Set, £30, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Isabella Tall Vase, £28, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Caption

Horizon Coffee Table, £299, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Biba Marla Wire Frame Mirror, £110, House of Fraser, Cardiff

Copper Pendant Light, £49.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

Good Friend Canvas, £12, Very.co.uk

Decorative Perfume Bottle, £19.50, M&S, Swansea

Elements Wooden Sculpture, £35, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton

Blue Geometric Cushion, £24.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

Candy Stripe Ceramic Coffee Cup, £14, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park swansealife.co.uk 119

FREE OLD BED DISPOSAL

55 New Rd, Skewen, SA10 6EP

01792 815080

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

Unit 12-16 Tower Court St Davids Rd, Llansamlet SA6 8RU (Behind Smyths Toys)

01792 799213

HOUSE & HOME B&Q, Morfa Retail Park and Parc Trostre

WOODLAND WALKS Take inspiration from woodland walks and its forest friends. LAURA DAVIES goes back to nature laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

122 swansealife.co.uk

@LawsDx

Dickins & Jones Beatrix Folk Print Cushion, £18, House of Fraser, Cardiff

Leaf Bowl, £5, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

Large Wooden Bowl, £19.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

Set of 4 Hedgehog Nesting Bowls, £23, John Lewis, Cardiff

Hedgehog Tealight Holder, £3.50, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton

Fox & Owl Framed Prints, £15, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton and Pontarddulais Road Retail Park

Tree Print Cushion, £19, M&Co, Cardiff

Rabbit Doorstop, £6, B&Q, Parc Trostre

Set of 3 Candles, £7, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Mini Set Of 6 Pine Cone Candles, £5, B&Q, Morfa Retail Park

Woodland Etched Coasters, 4 pack, £8, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Copper Leaf Plate, £12, George Home, Parc Trostre

Caption Collection Bird Ornament £25, Debenhams, Swansea

Squirrel Print Cushion, £9, B&Q, Morfa Retail Park

Rustic Owl Table Lamp, £39, Dunelm, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park

Hedgehog, £8, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Owl Tealight Holder, £5, George Home at Asda, Gorseinon and Llanelli

Floral Applique Hare Cushion, £39.50, M&S, Swansea

Squirrel Doorstop, £20, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Small Bark Tealight Holder, £3, George Home at Asda, Llansamlet

swansealife.co.uk 123

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FREEPHONE 0500 212224 www.securahome.co.uk Unit C1 Kestrel Way, Garngoch Ind Est, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 9WN

HOUSE & HOME

TRICK AND TREAT! Trick out your home this Halloween with LAURA DAVIES’ pick of spooktacular decorations laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Wilko White Cloth Ghost Lights Pack of10, £5, Wilko, Llanelli and Swansea

Spider’s Web With Spider Decoration, £7, John Lewis, Cardiff Ginger Ray Boo Balloon Bunting, £4, www,gingerray.co.uk.

Rice Paper, Lantern, £2, Tiger, Swansea From a selection at John Lewis, Cardiff

Skeleton Hand Gold Glitter Pumpkin, Bottle Opener, Medium Light Up £9.99, Homesense, £9.99, Homesense, Pumpkin, £9, Parc Fforestfach Sainsbury’s, Swansea Parc Fforestfach

Skull Cup at Asda, £1, George Home, Parc Trostre

Selection from John Lewis

Large Halloween Glass Skull With Cork, £8, John Lewis, Cardiff

Puumpkin Glass, Sainsbury’s Home Halloween Tea Light £2.50, Primark, Swansea Holder, £12, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Sainsbury’s LED Webbed Lantern, £9.99, John Home Boo Light Decoration, Lewis, Cardiff £15, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Silver Pumpkin Group, £4.99, TK Maxx, Morfa Retail Park

t n e m it F d e b r e v O a r e iv R ST ÂŁ1,799.99 Complete Bedroom package JU

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Mirror, £195, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Bright palettes, colour blocking and geo prints, LAURA DAVIES picks out retro-inspired home decor with a modern twist laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

BEYOND MODERN

HOUSE & HOME Johanna Chair in Tweedy Blend Teal, £499, Kira Easy Fit Shade, £28, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Create Winter Geo Mug, £5, House of Fraser, Cardiff

Elements Dipped Ceramic Vase, £22, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton

Isla Patterned Chair, £199, Very.co.uk

Elements Circle Bowls, £3 each, Dunelm, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park

Sainsbury’s Home Trivet, £10, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Blue Ceiling Light, £69.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

Linea Create Klee Block Colour Cushion, £25, House of Fraser, Cardiff

Geo Panel Double Duvet Set, £12, George Home, Parc Trostre

Copper Wire Tealight Holder, £3, George at Asda, Llansamlet and Llanelli

Kurva Leaner Mirror Black, £99, jdwilliams.co.uk swansealife.co.uk 135

HOUSE & HOME

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

BEDROOM BOUDOIR As we move into a new season, it’s time to snuggle up with LAURA DAVIES’ pick of warming bedding

Homesense, Parc Fforestfach 136 swansealife.co.uk

HOUSE & HOME 1

1. Woodland Walk Crop Bed Print Linen, £17-25; Woodland Walk Ochre Stripe Woven Cushion, £14; Two Tone Cushion, £12; Sainsbury’s , Swansea 2. Elements Blomma Duvet Cover from £18; Blomma Pillowcase, £6; Jersey Quilted Square Cushion, £12; Quilted Bedspread, £65, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton 3. Chenille Throw, £16, Valentina Duvet Set from £34, Lux Chevron Cushion, £14, Midnight and Copper Sequin Boudoir Cushion, £10. Pineapple Foil Cushion, £20. Faux Leather Cushion, £10. Velvet Bedspread from £65; Dunelm, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park 4. Deer Cushion, £5, Round Mini Pinwheel Cushion, £5; Red Extra Large Velvet Cushion, £8. Lace Butterfly Duvet Cover, £10; George Home, Parc Trostre 5

5. Yellow Velvet Cushion, £5; Yellow Textured Cushion, £6; Metallic Scandi Geometric Mini Cushion, £5; Geometric Panel Duvet Cover, £12; Knitted Throw, £15; George at Asda, Llansamlet and Llanelli | 6. Cushion, £25; Throw in Brick, £65, John Lewis, Cardiff | 7. Sunset Stripe Bedding, £25; M&Co, Cardiff 8. Brooklyn Bed, from £799; Farmers Market Cushion, £12; Brooklyn Map Bed Set from £20; Waffle Throw, £60, Next, Morfa Retail Park 9

9. Bed Frame, £550; Pillowcases (pair), £26; Duvet Cover, £52; Cushion, £26. Runner, £65; Debenhams, Swansea | 10. Tulip Print Flannel Double Duvet Cover, £59; Pillowcase Pair, £24; Erin Print Double Duvet Cover, £59; Pillowcase Pair, £24; Hetty Folk Print Double Duvet Cover, £59. Pillowcase Pair, £24; Pippa Leaf Print Cushion, £32; Embroidered Flower Cushion, £28; Emily Lead Embroidered Beadspread, £150; Lottie Knit Throw, £75; Grey Graphic Weave Throw, £35; Stone Knitted Throw, £49; House of Fraser, Cardiff | 11. Mottled Leaves Bedding Set, £25, M&Co, Cardiff | 12. Cushion, £25; Throw in Brick, £65, John Lewis, Cardiff swansealife.co.uk 137

HOUSE & HOME W a

Mirrored Wall Clock, £29.99, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton

Metallic Analogue Clock, £29.99, TK Maxx, Morfa Retail Park

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laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

DAVIES picks out the b URA e st t . LA im ck e pie clo

Silicon Alarm Clock, £12, Next, Parc Trostre and Swansea

Rustic Wire Garden Clock-Gold Rust, £89, M&S, Parc Trostre

Giant Station Clock Grey, £10, Wilko, Parc Trostre

AYTM Stilla Marble Clock, £116, Amara.com

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Mustard Wall Clock, £19.99, TK Maxx, Parc Trostre

Hygena Wall Clock, £29.99, Argos, Swansea and Parc Pemberton

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Sainsbury’s Home Gold Wall Clock, £20, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Linea Home Propella Clock, £45, House of Fraser, Cardiff

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5 TIPS FOR

WINDOW TREATMENTS If you’re changing your home’s windows, there are lots of different options, but some are easier to do yourself than others. LAURA DAVIES looks at where to start.

Slatted shutters are a practical and attractive addition to a room - they provide privacy if the slats are angled the right way, and are a good way to disguise ugly windows (from the inside at least). The main downside of shutters is how much they cost - some manufacturers measure up the windows and fit the shutters for you, but you can often save money by choosing ‘no-frills’ shutters where you measure up and fit them yourself, which is great as long as your DIY skills are up to it. If they’re not, you could end up making an expensive mistake.

If you’re shopping for curtain poles, a 19mm diameter pole should be fine for very lightweight curtains. Choose a 28mm diameter pole for mid-weight curtains, and a 35mm diameter pole for heavy curtains. When measuring for a new curtain pole, a good rule of thumb is to add an extra 30cm on to the width of

144 swansealife.co.uk

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

your window.This extra 15cm either side will allow the curtains to stack back. If you have finite space either side of the window, you’ll need to factor this in to be sure that your finials fit comfortably in the space available.

Fitting a curtain pole to a bay window can seem difficult too, but there are DIY solutions. To create a bay curtain pole, cut a piece of pole to fit above each of the windows in the bay and use special angled/flexible connectors to join them together. An easier solution is to fit a straight curtain pole across the front of the bay instead, but this makes the room feel smaller when the curtains are closed.

If you’re measuring up for a blind inside a window recess, take accurate measurements (in millimetres) from several points in the recess because it won’t necessarily be square,

especially in an old building. If you have one, use a digital laser measurer to measure (quickly and accurately) at the top, middle and bottom of the recess, and the left, middle and right. Use the smallest measurements - round them down for the width, but you could add to the drop, depending on the type of blind. Take into account any protruding window furniture that may get in the way of operating the blind when it’s fitted. Sometimes blinds and curtains work well together - a blind inside the recess and curtains outside, for example.

Ensure that the surface of the shutter, blind or curtain pole will be fixed to can take the weight - wooden Venetian blinds can be very heavy, for example - and that you can get good fixings. Quality power tools make this job so much easier.

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Step inside a Stiltz HomeLift. Designed to make your life easier, a Stiltz HomeLift fits easily into your home and compliments any decor. Place it in the corner of a room, in a cupboard or a stairwell void. Alternatively, make a statement and position your lift centrestage in an entrance hallway or main room. A Stiltz HomeLift transports up to 3 people in comfort and style so you can transform your life without moving home. Do you need some help around the house? Are you thinking ahead and future-proofing? There’s never been a better time to consider a Stiltz HomeLift. Packed with sensors to keep everyone safe, it plugs straight into a domestic socket, runs very quietly and uses less energy than a toaster!

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Delta Beanbag Charcoal, £99, Very.co.uk

Marble Object, £10, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Grey Check Throw, £20, Wilko, Swansea

Feather Print Oversize Cushion, £25, M&S, Parc Trostre Hygena 24 Bottle Wine Rack Cube, £49.99, Argos, Swansea

Grey Kettle, £19.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

Bene Vase, £28, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Arthouse Slate Mirror, £89, Very.co.uk.

Camille Side Table, £249, M&S, Swansea

HOUSE & HOME

SHADES OF

Mini Frame Triple, £10, M&Co, Cardiff

GREY LAURA DAVIES’ pick of the most stylish interior ideas for Autumn prove that grey is never dull…

HEAD Copy

Classic Wall Clock Soft Grey, £35, jdwilliams.co.uk

148 swansealife.co.uk

Moss Knit Throw, £39, Very.co.uk

Throw, £40, Debenhams, Swansea

Vase, £10, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Grey Folding Table, £15, Asda, Llansamlet

@LawsDx

Storage Suitcase Metal, £95, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Nordic Felt Large Storage, £8, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Set of 4 Tribeca Print Side Plate, £15, M&S, Swansea

Star by Julien Macdonald Candles ( set of three) £15, Debenhams, Swansea

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Freestanding baths and separate shower cubicles need room to breathe, so squeezing them into a small space isn’t advisable. If your heart’s set on a freestanding bath, but you don’t have room, a freestanding-style shower bath is a good compromise. This looks like a freestanding bath, but the tap end and one side is flat so it sits flush against two walls, meaning you can have a shower above without water leaking down the sides onto the floor.

150 swansealife.co.uk

@LawsDx

Don’t forget to work out how much space is needed to comfortably use the loo and basin and to dry off after having a shower or bath. Pack in too much and you’ll find that your bathroom isn’t particularly easy, practical or pleasurable to use. It’s important to choose a suite that’s in proportion to the size of the room. Straight baths, for example, come in different widths and lengths, but if you’ve got a really small or awkward space, a tapered bath may be ideal. If there’s more space, a shower bath, which is roomier at the shower end, can be a good choice.

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Once you have a layout you’re happy with, it’s a good idea to make life-size templates of the fittings in cardboard to try in the room. Having an above-bath shower will restrict where you put the bath, for example, and you may come across other problems when placing your templates. Better still, try the actual loo, basin, bath, etc, when the room’s empty to see how they work together and in the space you have. If returning them isn’t a problem, you could try different loos, basins and baths if you’re unsure about which will work best.

Redoing your bathroom can be a great opportunity to improve the layout, but there are lots of things to consider. LAURA DAVIES looks at the best tips...

If you’re not using a designer and rejigging the layout is proving tricky, try drawing the bathroom on graph paper. Draw the room’s features, such as the window, door, airing cupboard, etc, on one piece of graph paper and the fittings you want on another, using the same scale. Then draw different layouts on different pieces of graph paper and lay them over the first plan to see how they work, or make life simple and do all this on a computer or tablet!

5 STEPS TO

If you’re happy with the layout of your bathroom, replacing the suite should be straightforward and relatively inexpensive, but if you want to change the layout, expect it to be more complicated and costly. Unless you’re a very experienced and competent DIYer, get a good plumber to do the work. They should be able to offer advice about changing the layout and what is and isn’t possible or advisable, as should a good bathroom/interior designer. A professional may think of things you haven’t, such as what you can and can’t do with the wastes, which could affect the layout and the products you choose.

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HOUSE & HOME

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HOUSE & HOME

SOMETHING OLD AND SOMETHING NEW FOR SEPTEMBER Hydrangea aspera

With JOSEPH ATKIN, Head Gardener at Aberglasney Gardens in Carmarthenshire October is ‘the’ month for Autumn colour in most gardens and it’s something we all look forward to seeing before winter sets in. Getting good autumn colour is relatively straight forward but in a home gardens there isn’t always enough space, at least not without sacrificing your display at other times of the year. Most people simply don’t have room for the traditional autumn stars like a huge beech tree. At Aberglasney we have been working on finding some good all-rounders that give good autumn colour but that also add interest year-round, a big ask from any plant, but we have found a few excellent options.

Cornus ‘Miss Satomi’

Hydrangea Paniculata ‘Brussels lace’

This shrub is a visitor favourite at Aberglasney as are its numerous close relatives, they all have wonderfully bracketed flowers in late spring, red fruit in summer and striking orange and yellow autumn colour in October. This plant is best positioned at the back of a border where all its different seasons of interests can be enjoyed. We find it is an excellent addition to a mixed border when it is underplanted with Hosta, Primula and Iris. This combination of only four different plants creates interest and colour for most of the year. Whilst ‘Miss Satomi’ requires very little maintenance (like most of its relatives) it is certainly not boring, both the summer flowers and autumn colour are really special. n Height = 3-4m eventually n Spread = 3-4m eventually n Position/Aspect = Any except very dry n Soil = Any except waterlogged n Pest and diseases = No problems n Style = Asiatic, woodland, mixed border specimen tree/shrub

Hydrangea are a key plant for us in the Gardens as they flower from July to the autumn and Brussels lace is one of the most reliable. Technically the flowers only last a few weeks but the striking heads of white, staining to pink, look great well into November. The impact these flower heads have is not to be underestimated either, we measured one that was nearly two feet long and almost a foot wide and the shrub is covered in them from July until they get cut back. An additional bonus is that the plant is very late to lose its green leaves which sets off the flower heads. On a more technical level, the paniculata type flower on spring wood, so they don’t lose their flowers to the frost like the more common ones. n Height = 1-2m n Spread =2m n Position/Aspect = Sun or part shade n Soil = Any except waterlogged or very dry (they don’t need acid soil like the more common ones) n Pest and diseases = No problems n Style = Cottage garden, woodland, mixed border, specimen plant, exotic

Stewartia Sinensis An equally good shrub/tree that flowers just after the Cornus in early summer is Stewartia sinensis. Its autumn colour is wine red and looks great next to plants with yellow autumn colour like Fothergilla. The general habit of the plant is to form a nice domed head, held on a stem with very ornamental bark. Additionally, the spring shoots are pretty so this one does something almost all year. Ours is planted at the back of a border with short shrubs and herbaceous plants around it and this works well. We find that despite being very choice and unusual it is easy to grow, very hardy and requires little in the way of maintenance. n Height = 5m eventually (quite slow) n Spread = 4m eventually n Position/Aspect n Soil = Any acidic to neutral except waterlogged n Pest and diseases = No problems n Style = Mixed border, specimen tree, shrub border, Asiatic garden, woodland garden 156 swansealife.co.uk

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HOUSE & HOME

5 STEPS TO CREATING A COLOURFUL

AUTUMN BARREL @LawsDx

Choose y

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

containe our

With autumn upon us, it’s time to think about what you can plant now that will give you greenery and colour in your garden throughout the cooler months. LAURA DAVIES looks at how to create a beautiful arrangement for the coming season

A wooden barrel is an attractive choice but you could choose anything you like. Make sure that the container has holes at the bottom for drainage.

ext ts to end

A large skimmia, which is an evergreen shrub with clusters of attractive flowers and berries, makes a great focal point. Plant bulbs such as Narcissus ‘Tete-aTete’ miniature daffodils, irises and muscari to give an injection of colour early next year. Add other flowering plants, such as cyclamen, violas and pansies, or try an ornamental cabbage for additional foliage interest.

the season

Select plan

ost

Use Multi Purpose Compost With Added John Innes, which encourages stronger plant development and longer plant life.

Wate r

Put the largest plant such as the skimmia in the middle of the container. Carefully place bulbs two to three times their depth and one bulb width apart, pointed end up. Then put smaller plants around the outside.

fee and d

Water every few days if it hasn’t rained, and use a feed such as Miracle-Gro all purpose continuous release plant food, which will encourage bigger, lusher plants with noticeably more blooms.

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HOUSE & HOME

Spring Bulbs PLANTING TIPS

Autumn is here, so it’s time to start planting your spring bulbs. LAURA DAVIES looks at tips to bulb planting to ensure you enjoy a riot of colourful flowers in spring. laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

WATCH YOUR PLANTING DEPTH

@LawsDx

CARE FOR YOUR CONTAINERS

Make sure the soil’s not waterlogged. If you plant tulips in light soil, they should go deeper than the conventional depth. I plant mine the week before Christmas, but it doesn’t make any difference. They’ll still bloom at the same time in spring.

Try the ‘Snowy Baby’, a tiny daffodil, a pale milky colour with a tiny dwarf trumpet and grows to around six inches high. Plant it in the front of a border or in a raised bed or rock garden. Plant in autumn and it will flower in March. Multiflora are a new breed of long-lasting tulip

with up to six heads per stem, growing to around 16 inches and flowering in April. Some change colour dramatically as they age. Chameleon tulips, which change colour over time, are particularly unusual. Try varieties such as ‘Antoinette’, which opens soft yellow before the petals become edged with an orange tinge which gradually deepens and spreads over most of the petal. Other new bulbs include Ranunculus ‘Mirabelle Vert Mix’, a striking double variety in a range of vivid colours with emerald green centres and Anemone ‘Mistral Tigre’, a stunning deep pink and green tinged anemone with shades of white and a deep purple middle, flowering from March to May.

Narcissus Snow Baby

Anemone Mistral Tigre

Multiflora Tulips

Traditionally people were told to plant bulbs twice as deep as the height of the bulb itself, but that is rubbish. Bulbs should be planted 4-6 inches deep. Put them into a sensible, deep hole away from the vagaries of heat and cold and wet and dry.

CHECK YOUR SOIL

160 swansealife.co.uk

Don’t use multi-purpose compost, which has the consistency of peat, when planting bulbs in pots. Use a large pot and fill it with loam-based compost, as multi-purpose tends to dry out. Ensure the pot has good drainage so the bulbs don’t rot.

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Wildlife gardening

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Bee on daisy

According to the Wildlife Trust, there are approximately 16 million gardens in the UK making up a huge living landscape! Even if your garden is tiny there are many ways to attract a wide variety of wildlife such as bats, birds, bees and even hedgehogs. One of the best things you can do for wildlife is to introduce water into your garden, even if it is just a tiny pond in a pot, or a bubbling water feature. A pond will provide important drinking water for birds and other wildlife and will provide habitats for frogs, toads and newts. If creating a wildlife pond, make sure that it has gently sloping edges to allow easy access. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the space for a pond then a bird bath is a great alternative. Planting lots of brightly coloured flowers is a brilliant way to attract bees, butterflies and other important pollinators. Fill your garden with plants that flower from early spring to late autumn- the brighter the better. Avoid plants with double or multiButterfly on petalled flowers as Echinacea they lack nectar, and insects have difficulty in gaining access. Avoid using pesticides on your plants as they will kill all insects, not just the unwanted ones. If you have the space, planting trees is a great way to encourage birds, as they provide shelter and feeding opportunities. For a small garden try a multi-stemmed specimen, or maybe a small fruit tree. The bees will enjoy the nectar from the blossom, you can enjoy the fruit, and the 164 swansealife.co.uk

favourite (birds love eating the hips in autumn), or try planting a honeysuckle or a clematis. Ivy flowers are a very important late source of nectar for bees, and the berries are a great winter food source for a huge variety of birds.

birds will happily munch on any windfalls. Try hanging a few bird feeders in the branches to make your trees even more appealing and position them out of the reach of cats. Make sure you keep them topped up all year round as the birds will come to rely on you. Climbers provide shelter and space for birds to nest, the flowers are rich in nectar, and they look gorgeous too! White single flowered rambling roses are my absolute

You can buy or build purpose made homes for a huge range of creatures in your gardenfrom bird boxes to bug hotels, bat boxes to hedgehog hideyholes. Try creating a log pile in a shady corner for minibeasts. Take care when carrying out any work on your garden, there may be a frog or a snoozing hedgehog in the long grass you are about to cut, so have a bit of a poke around to allow any creatures to run away before you fire up the lawn mower. Leaving a small gap under your fence will create a wildlife corridor, allowing hedgehogs, frogs and even newts to wander from garden to garden.

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Great escapes

MUNICH (page 172) MOTTRAM HALL (page 174) OVERNIGHT STAY (page 175)

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

GREAT ESCAPES Muenchner Marienplatz by Fritz Witzig

Viktualienmarkt by C Reiter

Muenchner Marienplatz by B Roemmelt

A TASTE OF GERMANY

Nowadays you’ll find Christmas markets all over Europe, but Germany is where they originated and Germany still does them best. PETER SLEE has been off to discover a new favourite in Munich......

ALL me a sucker for festive cheer, but the romance of Christmas seems infinitely more alive on the Continent than it does here. As more of us are discovering each winter, there’s something deeply appealing about buying handcrafted Christmas gifts from

Muenchner Marienplatz by L Barth

Lebkuchenherz Muenchner by L Barth

GETTING THERE

BMI regional flies twice daily between Bristol and Munich, Sunday – Friday and once daily on a Saturday. Fares on the route start from £99pp one way. flybmi.com Take the S-Bahn (commuter train), S1 or S8 into central Munich (mvv-muenchen.de; journey time is 40 minutes; €11.20/£9.10 one-way single, €20.40 /£16.60 for a partner ticket valid for up to five people) Consider investing in the €12.60 Gesamtnetz whole-network day ticket, which will get you from the airport and to all the S-Bahn and U-Bahn (subway) stops; it is also valid on buses. The partner ticket deal applies here too. Further information muenchen-tourist.de

WHERE TO STAY

Holiday Inn Hochstrasse 3, 81669 Munich A five minute walk from the Rosenheimer Platz S-Bahn station, the hotel is also a seven -minute walk from the Deutsches Museum and 1.4 km from Marienplatz central square so offers really easy access into the city centre. Straightforward rooms with a bright restaurant which features

172 swansealife.co.uk

candlelit wooden stalls in a snowy medieval square, especially when you’ve had a few cups of hot spiced wine. It certainly beats doing battle with hordes of people searching for socks, CDs and Scrabble on a dank high street with all the festive spirit of a fire sale in a tinsel factory. Stores can be full of fractious shoppers, weighed down with expensive junk.

Marienplatz by S Mueller

Bavarian cuisine and a breakfast buffet at an additional cost. Rooms from around the £100 mark. Hotel Pension Am Siegestor A friendly pension in a 19th-century mansion next to the Victory Arch and the university; clean, simple rooms – the quaintest are on the fifth floor under the eaves (0049 89 399550; siegestor.com; doubles from £60.

WHAT TO SEE

Veer away perhaps from the Christkindlmarkt on Marienplatz, which packs in more than three million visitors a year, and head to Alpenwahn (Viktualienmarkt 15, daily 2pm-11pm, where you can browse the wares while snacking on chilli-laced currywurst and drinking red or white mulled wine. In a courtyard just off of Odeonsplatz, Weihnachtsdorf in der Residenz (daily 11am-9pm,) is the city’s newest market, where live bands or choirs often perform and the scent of caramelised almonds perfumes the air. On the whimsical side, the Mittelaltermarkt (Wittelsbacherplatz, Brienner Strasse 6-10, open daily 11am-8pm, hovers somewhere between

Muenchner Marienplatz by B Roemmelt

Chinesischen Turm by B Roemmelt

Frauenkirche by S Mueller

So it’s with that in the back of my mind that I find myself in Munich rekindling a childhood love of Advent. A German Christmas market is the ideal antidote to the bland conformity of chain-store shopping. And a trip to one of the better ones is a great excuse for a winter break. Beer, sausages, lederhosen, dirndls and oompah bands are all still part of Munich. But so too are ornate baroque and extravagant rococo churches – check out the Asamkirche on Sendlinger Strasse – as the city remained a bastion of Catholicism during and after the Reformation. The city was severely bombed during both world wars, so a lot of the fairy tale is ersatz, notably the quaint gingerbread buildings. But post-war, the city has thrived – it is home to the Bayerische Motoren Werke, or BMW, for a start – and feels prosperous, pleasure-loving and elegant. It comes into its own even more at Christmas time. And where some Christmas markets can be crass, commercial affairs decked out in blaring

Eiszauber auf dem Stachus by T Loesch

traditional market and medieval fair, with steaming Drachenblut (dragon’s blood) served in goblets and roast suckling pig in flammkuchen (pizza-like flatbread with crème fraîche, bacon and onions). It was heaving the day we called in but was brilliant even so. Our favourite of them all saw us take a 20 minute stroll through the English Gardens to a site just outside the city. It was truly breathtaking with Saint Nicholas also calling in.

WHERE TO EAT

If Munich conjures up visions of poodle-sized pork knuckles, you wouldn’t be far wrong. It is packed with such venues and every one we tried was good. Eating as you tour the markets is very much the norm with potato pancakes, mulled wine and chips covered in mayo taking on a whole different flavour here. But we also splashed out at the Wirtshaus Hohenwart which was a real revelation. The 1896 building was gutted and refurbished to its rustic glory a couple of years ago. Original furnishings, including a vintage bowling

neon, many of Munich’s are of a different sort, with evergreen boughs, fairy lights and a genuine sense of holiday cheer. What’s so enchanting about them too are all the little things that never change: children gathered round the crib; grown-ups gathered round the Glühwein stalls; the nutcrackers, the carols, the candlelight ... Foreigners come here to stock up with gifts and delicacies. Locals often just drop in for a few drinks and a bite to eat. As you wander round, you can’t help thinking this is how Christmas ought to be. The Germans have two words that sum it up – kitsch (sentimental and slightly tacky) and gemütlichkeit (warm and cosy hospitality). Pleasure and elegance aside, the major attractions are also within easy walking distance or a couple of tram stops, so visiting is easy; and not only easy, but highly recommended – few other cities match Munich’s happy marriage of German gemütlichkeit and Italian romance and exuberance.

Kripperlmarkt am Rindermarkt by J Lutz

Zinnfiguren by J Lutz

lane, were kept wherever possible, while newer additions – such as the looping recording in the restrooms of comedian Gerhard Polt, who filmed Man Spricht Deutsch here – add a wry edge. Save for a few concessions to modern tastes – a tartare here, a salad with chanterelles there – the menu excels at the classics. Order fish from nearby Starnberger See lake or the regal veal schnitzel, cloaked in butter-fried breadcrumbs. Gietlstrasse 15, +49 89 6939 7575, hohenwart.net Ratskeller Located under the neo-Gothic town hall on Marienplatz, this could easily be a tourist trap but is usually full of locals. A good place to try Bavarian white sausage – if you must (Marienplatz 8; 219 9890; ratskeller.com). Spatenhaus A cosy Bavarian inn on Max-Joseph Platz looking across to the imposing Nationaltheater opera house. Good traditional food on the ground floor – order the Bavarian plate for sausages galore (Residenzstrasse 12; 290 7060).

swansealife.co.uk 173

GREAT ESCAPES

A WEEKEND BREAK THAT’S DOWN TO A TEE.... For players – good, bad and indifferent – golf can be an obsession. JONATHAN ROBERTS gets a couple of rounds in at a new favourite...

HE 19 th hole at Mottram Hall is called The Claret Jug, but seasoned golfers may suspect there’s an influence on this championship course that lies beyond the British Isles. The sculpted fairways with large sand traps protecting the giant greens is the first hint of a ‘North American feel’. The tree-lined and undulating back nine with a sprinkling of well-placed water features simply confirms that belief. It is no great surprise, then, that this course which hosted the 2013 European Seniors PGA Championship, was designed by former PGA Captain and Ryder Cup player Dave Thomas. His exploits in taking on the Americans can be felt on each hole. Mottram Hall plays every inch of its 7,006 yards off the back tees. Despite its length it is the front nine where any player looking to shoot their handicap needs to make hay. Rolling gently over the Cheshire meadowland with impressive views of the 18th Century Georgian Mansion, there are plenty of opportunities to make a score with a good strike from the tee. It is suitable for golfers of most abilities and all ages. The back nine, in sharp contrast, will test every shot you have in your locker.

174 swansealife.co.uk

The signature hole, the par 4 17th, requires two pin point accurate and lengthy blows to reach the elevated green. But anyone who still has a score going at this point in the round is clearly on top of their game. The 10th and 12th are potential card wreckers but a breeze compared to the uphill 13th where a par 4 will feel like a birdie or better. Fourteen and 15 are two great holes and the 18th is a genuine par 5 that finishes right in front of the clubhouse. Its design with spacious veranda would not be out of place in the Deep South and provides a perfect location to sit and dissect where it all went right or wrong out on the course. The resort is 16 miles from Manchester and three miles from Wilmslow but the beauty of staying on site is that it affords players the chance to have a second round. And with a choice of bars and restaurants Mottram Hall, which is part of the exclusive Q Hotels chain, is ideally suited for such a break. The 120 bedrooms come complete with all the touches you would expect from a four star resort. Having checked in in the evening many golfers seemed to gravitate back to The Claret Jug which is quite literally a stone’s throw from Mottram Hall itself.

24 HOURS IN... ...PREMIER INN, MANCHESTER

A modern, city-centre hotel; frills-free but bright and relaxed with comfortable beds. It is fairly central and offers great value and a jolly atmosphere. It is also conveniently near the city’s bus station and tram stops and not far from Manchester Piccadilly and Oxford Road Station. What you see is what you get but perfect for a lower priced stay right where you need to be.

STYLE & CHARACTER

You are not here for the view. But having said that, it is well placed and its style is pretty decent, given its budget hotel status. As the hotel is a new’ish build, everything looks bright and fairly modern. It’s had more than a lick of paint of late too which helps.

ROOMS The food is more that up to scratch and the setting is relaxed. For those looking for a more quintessential dining experience there’s the Carrington Grill, a contemporary restaurant and another great venue to socialise after 18 holes. It is here that breakfast is served and the choice and quantity on offer will ensure all golfers are set for a day on the course. There are full practice facilities, including a range, for those who like to be prepared when they arrive at the first tee. If back to back rounds are a struggle then, as you would expect at such a high class venue, golf buggies are available for hire. For those looking to take it a little easier the resort also has a health club and spa. My bet is you’ll want to have another go at that glorious back nine but it’s just as brutal the second time around. Mottram Hall, Wilmslow Road, Mottram. SK10 4QT 01625 828 135 A two-night break, including dinner, bed and breakfast, and 36 holes of golf, costs from just £179pp, based on two sharing. www.qhotels.co.uk/our-locations/mottram-hall

Straightforward and practical with a well thought out mirror with plug sockets and shelf underneath for hair drying and styling. Our room looked as though it had had a bit of a recent makeover with a 40” TV, decent shower and bathroom and a slumber-inducing Hypnos bed. None of it was fancy, but it did the job.

SERVICE AND FACILITIES

Efficient and friendly. We were bowled over by the friendly welcome at reception and a member of staff who really sold the brand well. But everyone we came across pretty much, was on the ball. In fact, the staff here were some of the best we have encountered at this level of accommodatio. There are self-service check-in desks at reception, but staff are also on hand to guide you through the process, and to explain Premier Inn’s exemplary Good Night Guarantee – your money back if you don’t get a good night’s sleep. 10/10!

HOTEL PARKING

There is no on-site parking available at this hotel. But 30% discounted parking is available at Q Park under the nearby Novotel Hote at £15.40 per 24 hours. You receive the discount voucher on check out.

FOOD & DRINK

Thyme, its in-house restaurant has a new contemporary British menu which was ok if somewhat predictable. ‘Gourmet’ burgers and steaks to salads and desserts. None of it will particularly wow but it’s fine for what it is. There’s a kid’s menu available too.

VALUE FOR MONEY

Double rooms from £67 excluding breakfast, on some weekdays booked long ahead. But rates are often considerably more so worth checking first. Address: The Circus, 112-114 Portland Street, Manchester M1 4WB

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Out

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WALK OF THE MONTH (page 178) 21 REASONS TO LOVE SWANSEA (page 180) SWANSEA CITY OF CULTURE BID (page 182)

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.

Start/Finish location .............. Aberdulais/Briton Ferry Distance ...................................... 7 miles (4 hours) Level .............................................Moderate Parking ......................................... On-street

178 swansealife.co.uk

Neath Canal The new Swansea Ramblers’ winter walking programme is now out and can be downloaded from our website, (see below). On Wednesday October 25,Tim will lead another of our midweek walks from Aberdulais to the end of Neath Canal at Briton Ferry. Being a linear walk, we’ll catch a bus from Swansea to start at Aberdulais then at the end, we’ll take a bus back. You are welcome to join Tim on the day but if you do this walk yourself, you could also vary it by using the bus services between Briton Ferry and Aberdulais (Check bus times before travel). At Aberdulais, the National Trust has preserved the Tin Works below the waterfall and it is worth a look around. To start the walk, use the pedestrian crossing and take the subway beneath the dual carriageway of the busy A465 that takes you onto Station Road. Here the River Dulais flows into the River Neath and you have good views of the canal aqueduct which links Neath Canal to Tennant Canal. Pass under the high railway bridge and turn left across a road bridge. Turn left just after the Railway Inn pub to pass under another railway arch to Aberdulais Basin. Turn right to where the end of the basin meets Neath Canal, then turn right along the towpath. It’s fairly straightforward now. Follow the towpath into Neath, passing the canal cottage at the lock gate then later, the historic St Illtud’s Church on the opposite bank. A more recent housing development has a superb canal side location as you come to the centre of Neath. Watch out for the low modern bridges that provide vehicle access to the supermarket car park. The canal towpath becomes a more urban affair. A road bridge completely covers the canal but continue forward and you’ll see it re-emerge the other side! Leaving Neath, the canal becomes more rural again, with waterfowl on its surface, journey the final section to its junction with the River Neath. The canal disappears into yet another culvert, leaving you perhaps a little disappointed that there isn’t a canal basin or something more impressive. Here the walk finishes, but you could ascend the tall Briton Ferry Bridge to join the Wales Coast Path. Turn left to visit Brunel Dock or to catch a bus from Briton Ferry to Swansea or Aberdulais. Below: Andrew Morgan

Upcoming walks October... WED 04 Dinefwr (4 miles) • Easy/Moderate, meet 11am Llandeilo SAT 07 Gnoll Estate & Tonna (6 miles) • Moderate, meet 11am Gnoll: main car park SUN 08 Mynydd Myddfai (11 miles) • Strenuous, meet 8.45am Francis St. TUE 10 Waterfalls (10 miles) • Strenuous, meet 9.20am Go Outdoors CP SAT 14 Foel Fynyddau (6 miles) • Moderate meet 11am Pontrhydyfen: Rhyslyn SAT 14 Weekend Away in Kington see programme THU 19 Five Gower Churches (12 miles) • Moderate, meet 9.30am Penmaen NT car park SAT 21 Jersey Marine (5 miles) • Easy, meet 10am Towers Hotel SUN 22 Rhossili Down & Worms Head (10 miles) • Strenuous, meet 10am National Trust Shop WED 25 Neath Canal (7 miles) • Moderate meet 9.50am Quadrant Bus Station: Stand D SAT 28 Llanrhidian and Cilibion (8 miles) • Moderate meet 9.30am Oldwalls: The Greyhound SAT 28 Oldwalls (4 miles) • Easy Moderate, meet 11am Oldwalls: The Greyhound SUN 29 Graig Fawr and St. Illtud’s Walk (10 miles) • Moderate, meet 9.30am Pontarddulais: Railway Station

Transport: Traveline: www.traveline-cymru.info 0871 200 22 33 or BayTrans: www.baytrans.org.uk/ Visit our website: www.swansearamblers.org.uk swansealife.co.uk 179

OUT & ABOUT

21 Reasons why Swansea should

Swansea is eagerly awaiting the imminent news of whether it has made the shortlist to be named the UK City of Culture 2021. As we all get behind this lovely, quirky, unique city of ours in its bid to win the City of Culture crown, here are 21 reasons why Swansea deserves to win. 1. SWANSEA CITY FC

The lively new SA1 hosts the International Jazz Festival, the Dylan Thomas Theatre, which is home to the Swansea Little Theatre Group, The Mission Gallery, the National Waterfront Museum, Swansea Museum, and the permanent Love the Words exhibition at the Dylan Thomas Centre.

2. ANCIENT EGYPTIAN MUMMY

Port Talbot acting legend Sir Richard Burton rightly called it ‘the Welshman’s caviar’ and this iron-rich Swansea staple is sold throughout the city, particularly in Swansea market.

An ancient Egyptian mummy sleeps in Swansea Museum which is the oldest museum in Wales. Hor was a clothier priest and scribe of the God Atum, who lived in Akhmim in Upper Egypt between 250-200 BC, during the Ptolemaic Dynasty.

3. DYLAN THOMAS One of the most lyrical voices in British literature, Dylan is Swansea’s most famous son who adored his ‘Ugly, lovely town’.

4. TWIN TOWN The cult classic that launched Rhys Ifans’ career, Kevin Allen’s Twin Town is one film that almost everyone you meet in the city can quote a favourite line from.

5. JOE’S ICE CREAM We don’t call it ice cream in Swanse, we call it Joe’s.

180 swansealife.co.uk

6. MARITIME QUARTER

Who are we? The Swans were the first Welsh club to be promoted to the Premier League, after winning the Football League Championship play-offs against Reading in 2010/11, and are currently the only Welsh team in the top flight.

7. LAVERBREAD

8. SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE A gorgeous and ornately-iced, old-school theatre, built in the 1890s and opened by opera superstar Adelina Patti. Everyone from Anthony Hopkins to Catherine Zeta Jones has trodden its boards.

9. EISTEDDFODDAU Swansea hosted the National Eisteddfodd in 1863, 1891, 1907, 1926, 1964, 1982 and 2006.

10. THE QUEEN’S HOTEL One of the oldest pubs in Swansea, the pub was a beloved haunt of Dylan Thomas who would soak up the tales of its sea-faring regulars, and played host to Charles Dickens in a Victorian themed episode of Doctor Who.

11. ANN OF SWANSEA Actress, dance teacher and one of Britain’s most popular novelists of the early 19th century. Ann published 15 novels in 20 years.

be the UK City of Culture 2021

it boasts a dozen orchid species, varied birdlife and rare invertebrates. And then there’s Rhossili, the 5km long beach that was featured in the 2012 Olympic Games opening ceremony and has garnered many awards including best picnic spot in Britain and 10th best beach in the world.

12. SWANSEA AIR SHOW The biggest crowd-pulling outdoor event in Swansea brings the Typhoon Eurofighter, Tigers parachute display teams and the Red Arrows to Swansea Bay each year, with the 2017 event breaking all previous attendance records.

17. DR LYN EVANS The Swansea University graduate is the man behind the Large Hadron Collider based at CERN in Switzerland.

18. THE EMPIRE PANELS

13. GLYNN VIVIAN GALLERY Recently reopened after a multi-million pound refurbishment, Swansea’s leading art gallery includes treasures from home-grown artists including Alfred Janes, Ceri Richards and Evan Walters, along with national favourites Augustus John, Gwen John and Christopher Williams.

Sir Frank Brangwyn’s epic Empire Panels were originally commissioned to take pride of place in the House of Lords. Fortunately for Swansea, before they were completed a change of regime in Westminster decided they were inappropriate for the Royal Gallery, and a new home had to be found - right here in the yet-to-be-named Brangwyn Hall.

14. ROWAN WILLIAMS

19. SWANSEA JACK

The former Archbishop of Canterbury and spiritual leader to 70 million Anglicans worldwide was born in Swansea and went to Dynevor School.

The famed black retriever who proved to be man’s best friend when he came to the rescue of local people who got into difficulty in Swansea docks. In total, Jack saved 27 people from drowning during his lifetime and he remains the only dog to receive two bronze medals – the Canine VC – by the National Canine Defence League.

15. SINGLETON PARK Swansea’s largest urban park, its 250 acres, which were once part of the Vivian Estate, have been enjoyed by generations of picnickers, concertgoers, dog walkers and hide and seekers.

16. GOWER PENINSULA Made Britain’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1956,

20. HIGH STREET REVIVAL Home to The Hyst, Volcano Theatre, Elysium Studios, Gallerie Simpson, Tech-Hub and a number of new venues, there are new works of art, festivals and events popping up on High Street on a regular basis.

21. SIR KARL JENKINS The Penclawdd-born maestro is the first Welsh composer to receive a knighthood, and was named as the world’s most performed living composer for his seminal mass for peace, The Armed Man. swansealife.co.uk 181

OUT & ABOUT

Why You Should Join Us In Backing Swansea’s Bid

UK CITY OF CULTURE 2021

The countdown to the UK City of Culture 2021 Bid is on, with Swansea being the only Welsh city on the coveted shortlist. Now it is up to the city to really get behind the bid and to show the judges and the Department for Digital, Culture Media and Sport that we are passionate about Swansea and its cultural life and that we are ready to make the most of the many opportunities winning the title would bring to the city we love. The UK City of Culture title is all about bringing positive social and economic change to a place which really needs it. The accolade is no empty title. Recent winners, similar cities to Swansea, have seen the very real benefits of being awarded this crown. The current UK City of Culture 2017 holder, Hull, has seen £1billion of investment since winning the title in 2013 and it is estimated that this year alone will deliver a £60million boost to the local economy thanks to an influx of tourists and business investors attracted by the year-long programme of high profile events. Here at Swansea Life we wholeheartedly back the bid along with some of our city’s more well known faces:

WE’RE BACKING THE BID

#Swansea2021

182 swansealife.co.uk

RICHARD ROWBERRY

Owner of Swansea’s Moda Collections: “These are exciting times for Swansea, with the City Deal investment creating a sense of optimism about our future. What better way to help cement this future than bidding for the UK City of Culture 2021? From the tourism standpoint alone, a previous winning city reported that the number of visitors booking into its cities soared by more than 90 per cent when they won the title. We have a city by the sea with an enviable coastline, with great shopping, fine visitor attractions and warm, welcoming people. It is in our interests to let the rest of the world experience this for themselves and a UK City of Culture 2021 win would help us do this.”

MAL POPE

Musician and BBC Radio Wales presenter: “Swansea has, quite rightly, always been proud of its rich cultural life - from our choirs and community theatre groups, to our vibrant sporting life, our recording artists, dancers, actors, artists and writers. Swansea’s bid for UK City of Culture 2021 could see us take everything we do so well and put it on a world stage, with the backing and the support that genuine investment would offer. Hull, the most recent UK City of Culture, has enjoyed a great boost in investment since they won, and during 2017 they are estimated to be looking at an economic boost of at least £60 million. Those figures speak for themselves and they show that a win could bring concrete, longlasting results for our great city of Swansea.”

SWANSEA 2021 FACTS

LARA JOHNSON

Owner of Lara Johnson Lifestyle: “Entering a UK City of Culture bid shows real ambition on the part of the city and I was delighted to see Swansea make the shortlist. It is so important that we all get behind the bid and spread the word about the opportunities it could bring to Swansea. As a business person I know how important it is that we attract genuine investment into the city in a way that would boost our economy long-term. It is clear that a UK City of Culture 2021 win would do this in aces. If you have visited a previous winner of one of these titles you will know the kind of buzz, self-assurance and pride a title like this can bring to everyone. It really can help people to see their own city in a new light and commit to promoting its unique qualities whenever they get the opportunity. I’m backing Swansea’s UK City of Culture 2021 bid – I hope Swansea Life readers are too.”

KEVIN JOHNS

Swansea Sound presenter: “One of the things I enjoy most about Swansea is the fact that its people and its communities really love this vibrant, quirky, unique city of ours. Winning the UK City of Culture 2021 bid would give us the chance to show the world why we are so passionate about Swansea and it would bring a host of quality national events to our city that would make the rest of the world sit up and take notice. Beyond this, a successful UK City of Culture 2021 bid would help to establish Swansea as a must-visit cultural hotspot for many years to come. Come on Swansea - Let’s get this bid in the bag!”

Swansea 2021 facts: What is the UK City of Culture? The UK City of Culture is a title given to a city for one year during which it creates a programme of local, national and international events which becomes a catalyst for investment, regeneration and economic growth. The title, which is awarded once every four years, is administered and judged by the UK Government’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. The inaugural holder was Derry-Londonderry in 2013, with Hull taking over the title this year. Both cities have reported significant social and economic benefits from holding the title. Winning UK City of Culture status could do wonders for Swansea’s economy, delivery a multi million pound boost for the city. Why Swansea? Because Swansea needs it and it is Swansea’s time. Our city is facing enormous change, with investment already coming into the city through the City Deal and the potential Tidal Lagoon project. Building on this momentum and drawing on our rich heritage and culture, there’s never been a better time to knit all of these together and provide an absolutely compelling case for Swansea to win.

As the current UK City of Culture, Hull has already seen a £1billion boost in investment since being announced the winner of the title in 2013 and the city is estimated to enjoy an economic boost of at least £60 million during 2017, its title year. In just the first three months of this year, the city attracted 1.4million visitors and now features in a list of the top 10 places to visit in Britain. Of course, there are many other benefits to be gained by winning this title, beyond the financial dividends. The international and national exposure enjoyed by UK City of Culture winners, and the feelgood factor and sense of pride this fosters in the city, is worth its weight in gold. Who is behind the bid? This is a ‘Team Swansea’ approach with many of the city’s leading public and private sector institutions, organisations and companies working together to ensure the outcomes in the Swansea bid for the Swansea people and economy are as strong as possible. These include: n Swansea Council

Swansea University University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) n Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board n Welsh Government n Coastal Housing Swansea BID Tidal Lagoon Museums Wales Creative professionals Businesses Arts and cultural leaders n n

WE’RE BACKING THE BID

Swansea is a creative city rich with heritage, stories and culture – the UK City of Culture provides the perfect stage to showcase that and will bring an unprecedented level investment into the arts, sport, leisure and recreation which will be felt in our communities for years to come.

We NEED it, we WANT it and we CAN deliver it.

How can I back the bid?

What do we get if we win? Winning cities have a year-long cultural celebration with significant investment from a range of UK bodies to get the infrastructure in place to support it. As well as seeing a wide programme of quality national events come to Swansea, there will also be an active and exciting community programme. The bid is an opportunity for Swansea to establish itself as a heritage and culture hotspot, with the benefits going way beyond the year of the title. Londonderry, which took the tile in 2013, saw the number of people booking in to its hotels in and around the city soar by 92 per cent, with £47 million injected into its economy.

n n n n n

n Follow ‘Swansea2021’ on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and get involved in the conversation by using the hashtag #Swansea2021 n Sign up to the Swansea 2021 newsletter at www.swansea2021.co.uk/back-the-bid/ n Tell all your friends and family about the bid and what it could really mean for Swansea and its people

What happens next? The submission of the full and final bid takes place in September with the winning city announced in December. There will then be three years for the winning city to prepare for the title in 2021. Your city needs you! Join Swansea Life in backing the bid!

#Swansea2021

WE’RE BACKING THE BID

swansealife.co.uk 183

Motoring

DRIVE TIME (page 186)

TRAINER SWANSEA

375 Carmarthen Road, Swansea 01792 651474

MOTORING

If you don’t want a new car then for heaven’s sake don’t test drive Peugeot’s 3008. You’ll never be able to resist its charms

drive TIME:

THE PEUGEOT WHAT IS IT.... Welcome to Peugeot’s second generation of family crossover. And what a car it is! Peugeot has fixed what was wrong with the original 3008. And developed what was right. The new one moves on to the Group’s newest platform, so it’s light, strong and has a longer wheelbase before for better proportions.And as for that interior, well, wow! It’s car we can’t get enough of, really! Get behind the wheel and you are going to love it too.

TELL ME MORE: The Peugeot 3008 is practical, good to drive, comfortable and packed with high-tech equipment. It’s also one of the best large crossovers on sale, which is saying something given the strength of the competition. The interior is stylish and modern with neat details, plus it uses high quality materials, giving it an upmarket feel. It’s a huge improvement on the previous 3008. There is enough room in the back row for adults to sit in comfort and the boot is generous at 520 litres, slightly more than alternatives like the SEAT Ateca. Its 1.2 Puretech petrol engine is very impressive and ideal if you’re not going to be doing big miles. However, our pick of the range is the 1.6-litre BlueHDi 120PS with official economy of 70.6mpg. In real life you’re more likely to see

186 swansealife.co.uk

around 55mpg which is still pretty good. It’s smooth, quiet and powerful enough for all kinds of driving, plus it is available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed auto. On the road the 3008 impresses with its quiet cabin, neat handling and good ride quality. There’s plenty of traction despite the lack of an all-wheel drive version and body roll is well-controlled through corners. It’s also available with useful convenience features like adaptive cruise control that stops and starts in traffic jams.

WHAT ABOUT THE DETAIL: The 3008 is a big car, but it doesn’t feel that way to drive. There’s not much body roll, even in tight bends. And while acceleration isn’t hugely impressive, petrol models feel sprightlier than the diesels – although every car in the range is adequately powerful. The whole Peugeot brand is on a push upmarket and that means that materials, trim and overall quality has received a significant upward shove. A real highlight of the 3008’s design is its interior – probably the best Peugeot has ever made, with a stylish, modern design and great ergonomics, plus the addition of an attractive eight-inch infotainment display above the dashboard that works well. Every 3008 is fitted with the brand’s 12.3-inch ‘i-Cockpit’ digital instrument display, a feature that’s usually found on the options list, even with premium manufacturers. The new 3008 is chic and sophisticated. Proof, if ever it was needed, that a crossover SUV can turn heads. In going from more of a crossover to an SUV, the new Peugeot 3008 now has to compete with an ever-increasing number of competitors. That means do more than look pretty – it needs to persuade the average

buyer that going French is a good idea. This is the second-generation 3008 and it is based on the EMP2 platform used by the 308 and 308 SW. At 4,447 metres in length, it is 800mm longer than its predecessor and has a 62mm longer wheelbase, making it roomier inside, but has a kerb weight as little as 1,250kg if you go petrol. You even get Hill Assist Descent Control for crawling down slopes at a constant 2mph and the tyres are of the all-season variety so you should always have the grip to cope with Britain’s worst weather. The 2017 3008 is not exactly a full-blown, all-out off-roader, but it can go further off the beaten track than a conventional car, which will be adequate for most buyers, and it has serious practicality going for it as you shall soon find out.

HOW DOES IT DRIVE? Like a Peugeot. The good ones, that is. It has a whiff of the 308 GTi about it in terms of how precise the steering is and how enthusiastically it grips. You tend to forget you are in quite a big C-segment car until you slide into the clutches of understeer. The six-speed manual gear stick is so chunky passengers thought it was an automatic and the distance between gears is acceptable. The three-cylinder turbocharged petrol takes 10.8 seconds from 0-62mph, which sounds painfully slow, but in reality not once did we panic about making an overtake or making it up a steep hill. Complimenting its motorway abilities is the lack of wind noise up to 70mph, although to be fair we had the truly excellent Focal sound system (it’s up there with Meridian and Harmon Kardon offerings) blaring after the second day of testing. It helps, too, the new 3008 has a sport mode for a twitchier accelerator and exhibits almost

zero body roll, a by-product of the suspension and relatively low kerb weight. Where some SUVs feel heavy, the 3008 feels nimble and poised for some B-road shenanigans.

INSIDE: Peugeot has absolutely nailed the interior of the 3008 when it comes to aesthetics. The few nastier plastics are hidden away nicely. Peugeot has kept things simple and drawn in some inspiration from recent concept cars, resulting in a clean and uncluttered cabin. The stylish ‘brumeo’ fabric material, the ‘piano key’ metal switches, the angular lines – everything goes against the mundane beautifully. Even the materials are solid and closing the door is met with a firm, reassuring thud. Not once during our 460-miles of motoring did anything rattle, come loose or fall off in our hand. In the 3008 we began to trust. The ability to adjust the digital dial display is a neat touch, especially as it allows you to focus on a specific element such as fuel consumption or your own customised setting. Not only is it useful and clear, Peugeot bothered to make it compliment the physical elements. The interior is often an overlooked element of a car or the one where cost-cutting takes place, but Peugeot’s i-Cockpit is proof you can get a spot of luxury and style without having to look to the Germans and spend more money.

SAFETY: Our test version of the Peugeot 3008 featured six airbags as standard, as well as numerous safety systems including lane departure warning and autonomous emergency braking, which means the car can automatically apply the brakes if it detects you are about to run into the vehicle in front. PRICES FROM £22,495

swansealife.co.uk 187

Welcome to VISIT OUR NEW LOOK SHOWROOM AND VIEW OUR LATEST OFFERS LAUNCH WEEKEND 14TH & 15TH OCTOBER

DAYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PEUGEOT | BEAUFORT ROAD | PLASMARL | SWANSEA | SA6 8HR

WE ARE AN OFFICIAL PEUGEOT ELECTRIC DEALERSHIP We are pleased to announce that our Peugeot Swansea branch is recognised as the only dedicated Electric Peugeot dealership in South Wales. As a result, we are pleased to offer: ● On-site electric vehicle charging facilities ● Dedicated electronic vehicle aftersales care ● Staff who are trained to offer guidance and advice on the range of available Peugeot vehicles. We are also suppliers of electric vehicles to local authorities and councils.

will soon be expanding to include a Peugeot Partner Tepee model as well. The new Peugeot Partner Electric van is available in two lengths and is identical in appearance to diesel and petrol versions. Its battery which is guaranteed for eight years, is able to drive for 106 miles with just one full charge, making it ideal for businesses who are conscious of their carbon footprint. Due to our status as an Electric Peugeot dealership, we have the Partner Electric available to test drive at a moment’s notice and our in-house Peugeot Business Specialist, Richard Evans, is available to discuss the benefits of choosing this type of vehicle for your business.

We currently have a fully electric Peugeot Partner demonstrator van on site as well as being able to sell and provide the iOnPeugeot’s fully electric city car. This is a privilege offered to only a small number of Peugeot dealerships. Peugeot have long been committed to electric vehicle technology, having first produced the electric Peugeot 106 model back in the 1990s. This vehicle was the market leader for several decades. Since then they have been working to develop this technology to improve the vehicles and the distance that they are able to travel with just one charge. The electric range of vehicles

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR RANGE OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES, CALL US ON 01792 616000 OR VISIT WWW.DAYS.CO.UK/PEUGEOT FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TEL: 01792 616000 | WWW.DAYS.CO.UK/PEUGEOT |

NEW PEUGEOT 308 AUGMENTED TECHNOLOGY

AVAIL ABLE WITH 0.0 % APR REPRESENTATIVE * DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION FROM £1,20 0 *

A DVA NCED DRIV ER A SSIS TA NCE S YS TEMS NE W GENER ATION ENGINES NE W 8-SPEED (E AT8) AUTOM ATIC TR A NSMISSION PA NOR A MIC FIXED GL A SS ROOF

CONFIDENCE

CEM DAY Beaufort Road, Swansea SA6 8HR. 01792 61600 swansea.peugeot.co.uk

Official Fuel Consumption in MPG (l/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km) for the new 308 Range are: Urban 34.9 – 80.7 (8.1 – 3.5), Extra Urban 57.6 – 97.4 (4.9 – 2.9), Combined 47.1– 91.1 (6.0 – 3.1) and CO2 139 – 82 (g/km). MPG figures are achieved under official EU test conditions, intended as a guide

for comparative purposes only and may not reflect actual on-the-road driving conditions. *Personal Contract Purchase. Finance subject to status. 18s +. Guarantee may be required. Finance provided by PSA Finance UK Ltd, Quadrant House, Princess Way, Redhill, RH1 1QA. Terms and conditions apply. PEUGEOT Motor Company PLC is acting as a credit broker and is not a lender. To finance your purchase we will introduce you to PSA Finance UK , RH1 1QA. Offer available until 31/12/17. Model featured is a new 308 GT Hatch in Magnetic Blue metallic paint. Advanced Driver Assistance Features are optional. New 8-speed (EAT8) automatic transmission is available to order from November 2017 production and is available on GT versions only. Fixed Panoramic Glass Roof is available from Allure versions. Visit Peugeot.co.uk for more information. Information correct at time of going to print. Information correct at time of going to press. Visit peugeot.co.uk for full product details.

ALL-NEW

PEUGEOT 3008 SUV

NEVER HAS AN SUV GONE SO FAR

NEW PEUGEOT i-COCKPIT® 8” MULTI-FUNCTION TOUCHSCREEN

12.3” HEAD-UP DIGITAL INSTRUMENT PANEL

COMPACT SPORTS STEERING WHEEL

EXPERIENCE

CEM DAY Beaufort Road, Swansea SA6 8HR. 01792 616000 swansea.peugeot.co.uk

Official Fuel Consumption in MPG (l/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km) for the all-new 3008 SUV Range are: Urban 37.2 67.3 (7.6 - 4.2), Extra Urban 55.4 - 80.7 (5.1 - 3.5), Combined 47.1 - 70.6 (6.0 - 4.0) and CO2 136 - 103 (g/km). MPG figures are achieved under official EU test

conditions, intended as a guide for comparative purposes only and may not reflect actual on-the-road driving conditions. Visit Peugeot.co.uk for more information. Information correct at time of going to print.

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Swansea • Port Talbot • Llanelli • Cardiff • Penarth • Pontypridd • Caerphilly

what’s on

CALENDAR OF EVENTS (page 196) WHAT’S COMING UP (page 198) BIG INTERVIEW (page 200)

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

THIS OCTOBER...

mark.rees@trinitymirror.com 01792 545529 @reviewwales

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

VEGGIE PATCH KIDS

A CELEBRATION OF VERNON WATKINS

OUR HOUSE

WWT LLANELLI WETLAND CENTRE, LLANELLI, 11AM

TALIESIN ARTS CENTRE, 7.30PM

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, UNTIL OCTOBER 7

THURSDAY

WEDNESDAY

GREAT HALL, BAY CAMPUS, SWANSEA, 7.30PM

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE (ARTS WING), 7.15PM

SHYLOCK

ELIN MANAHAN THOMAS

FRIDAY

NOT ABOUT HEROES

TALIESIN ARTS CENTRE, 7.30PM

MONDAY

JONATHAN HOPE (ORGAN) PLAYS THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA BRANGWYN HALL, 7.30PM

196 swansealife.co.uk

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES

FORMERLY OF BUCKS FIZZ – CHERYL, MIKE & JAY W/BOBBY

FAMILY CONCERT, BRANGWYN HALL, 3PM

GWYN HALL, NEATH, 7.30PM

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

LORD HESELTINE IN CONVERSTAION

MICHAEL MORPURGO’S KING ARTHUR

GRANTON STREET

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, 7.30PM

FFWRNES, LLANELLI, 6.30PM

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE (ARTS WING), UNTIL OCTOBER 13

10 11 12

WHAT’S ON ur Swansea Grand To

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

ST PETERSBURG SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

PRIMARY SCHOOLS MUSIC FESTIVAL

BRANGWYN HALL, 7.30PM

BRANGWYN HALL, 2PM

14 15

JO BRAND

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, 7.30PM

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

17 18 19

ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS

PONTARDAWE ARTS CENTRE, 7.30PM

FRIDAY

SUNSET BOULEVARD

THE CREEPY CARMARTHEN TOUR

SLAVA’S SNOWSHOW

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, UNTIL OCTOBER 21

CARMARTHEN, 7PM - 9PM

WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE, CARDIFF, UNTIL OCTOBER 21

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

20 21 22 23

TUESDAY

AN AFTERNOON WITH KEV JOHNS

GERMAN BEER FESTIVAL

CHILDREN’S BALLET WALES

THE WELSH AT MAMETZ WOOD

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE ARTS WING, 2PM

BRANGWYN HALL, FROM 5PM

THE PRINCESS ROYAL THEATRE, PORT TALBOT, 2PM

SWANSEA MUSEUM, UNTIL APRIL 2018

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

24 25

DYLAN THOMAS: “I MIGHT WANT TO SMILE,”

A NIGHT OF DIRTY DANCING

DYLAN THOMAS CENTRE, UNTIL DECEMBER 22

THE PRINCESS ROYAL THEATRE, PORT TALBOT, 7.30PM

26 27 HELEN SEAR EXHIBITION

GLYNN VIVIAN ART GALLERY, UNTIL NOVEMBER 19

THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, 7.30PM

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

GHOSTS OF WALES

FRANKENWEENIE FILM

DYLAN’S BIG BIRTHDAY BASH!

HALLOWEEN FILM CLUB

TABERNACLE ARTS CENTRE COVER TO COVER, MUMBLES

NATIONAL WATERFRONT MUSEUM

DYLAN THOMAS CENTRE, 1PM - 4PM

GLYNN VIVIAN ART GALLERY, 10.30AM

SATURDAY

29 30 31

WHAT’S ON

A NIGHT OF DIRTY DANCING – THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE SHOW

WHERE: The Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot WHEN: Wednesday, October 25, 7.30pm No film has captured the hearts of a generation like Dirty Dancing. Relive the passion, the romance and joy of the cult classic, and celebrate the music of one of the greatest movie soundtracks of all time. Be part of the glorious summer of ‘63 and experience all your favourite songs such as She’s Like The Wind, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Hey Baby, Wipe-out, Hungry Eyes, and of course, the Oscar-winning (I’ve Had) The Time of my Life.

OUR HOUSE

WHERE: Swansea Grand Theatre, Swansea WHEN: Tuesday, October 3 – Saturday, October 7 From the writer of Calendar Girls and Kinky Boots comes the Olivier-award winning Madness musical, Our House. On the night of Joe’s 16th birthday, a split-second decision forces him to choose between himself and his heart. As two very different paths unfold before him, the consequences of that choice will change his life forever.

SWANSEA INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OPENING CONCERT

WHERE: Swansea University’s Bay Campus’ Great Hall WHEN: Wednesday, October 4 The 2017 Swansea International Festival is back, and the series of live events across the city kicks off with an opening concert at Swansea University’s Bay Campus’ Great Hall on Wednesday, October 4. It will feature Swansea’s very own Elin Manahan Thomas, who joins forces with pianist Jeffrey Howard to present My Own Country, a “magical world tour in song” which will include the première of Jeffrey’s song cycle about Swansea which was composed for this year’s festival.

198 swansealife.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

WHY NOT...

AUTUMN READS The evenings are getting darker so snuggle up with LAURA DAVIES’ top reads for the month The Wardrobe Mistress by Patrick McGrath is published in hardback by Hutchinson, priced £14.99 (ebook £9.99). This latest novel from the author of Asylum and Spider is set in the freezing, fog-bound austerity of 1947 London. We open on the funeral of Charlie ‘Gricey’ Grice, one of the great actors of his day, and pan across our key players - his widow Joan, a theatre wardrobe mistress; his daughter Vera, an exceptional if troubled actor; and Vera’s mysterious husband, the theatre impresario Julian Glass. Not long after her husband’s death, Joan begins a complicated friendship with Charlie’s understudy for Malvolio in Twelfth Night, his final role. The quietly ambitious Frank Stone had studied Gricey’s performance so well that his impersonation seems to Joan like possession. As this new intimacy grows, Joan - a Jew - makes the odious discovery that her husband was a fascist sympathiser. Now she must keep both her own and her husband’s secrets from their highly-strung daughter. As comedy turns to tragedy, the wheels of the plot spin fast and true, and a dark and compelling tale unfolds.

Ghosts of Wales: Accounts from the Victorian Archives by Mark Rees, £12.99 (The History Press) In the Victorian era, sensational ghost stories made headline news. Spine-chilling reports of two-headed phantoms, murdered knights and spectral locomotives filled the press. Spirits communicated with the living at dark séances, forced terrified families to flee their homes, and caused frightened workers to down their tools at the haunted mines. This book reveals for the first time more than 50 hair-raising – and in some cases, comical – real life accounts from Wales dating from 1837 to 1901. Unearthed from the newspaper archives, they include chilling prophecies from beyond the grave, poltergeists who terrorised the industrial communities, and more than a few ingenious hoaxes along the way. The book will be launched with a night of Halloween ghost stories at Cover to Cover in Mumbles on October 28

...have a spooktacular Halloween in Swansea City Centre? WHERE: Swansea City Centre WHEN: Saturday, October 28, from 10am Roll up, roll up for a Spooktacular Halloween celebration as “All the Fun of the Scare!” comes to Swansea. For one day only, Swansea city centre and Castle Square will be transformed into a Scareground with a live show featuring Uncle Assylum, as well as a Junior Jamboree for your little terrors. There’ll be freaky face-painting and fairground games, along with the chance to learn silly circus skills from the weird but wonderful clowns. Round off the day with the zombies that zumba, and get involved in Swansea’s All the Fun of the Scare Crazy Carnival Parade. If you enjoy dressing up, booo-geying on down, or just love all things carnival, then take the family along this Halloween weekend. Dressing up is encouraged, but not compulsory.

CHILDREN’S BOOK OF THE WEEK The Wizards Of Once by Cressida Cowell is published in hardback by Hodder Children’s Books, priced £12.99 (ebook £8.99). Cressida Cowell, the bestselling author of the How To Train Your Dragon books has returned with a new children’s series all about Wizards and Warriors. But don’t expect this to be anything like Harry Potter. Yes, the Wizards are extremely magical, but they exist in the Iron Age and are being driven out of the Wildwoods by the Warriors, led by the steely Queen Sychorax. Packed with Cowell’s own quirky illustrations, and as imaginative, funny and warm-hearted as the Dragon books, The Wizards Of Once is a pacy, exciting read that’s sure to herald another hit series.

The Resurrection Of Joan Ashby by Cherise Wolas is published in hardback by The Borough Press, priced £14.99 (ebook £6.99). The Resurrection Of Joan Ashby is the debut novel from American writer, lawyer and film producer Cherise Wolas. It tells of the hugely talented author Joan Ashby, who puts her life’s passion of writing on hold when she unexpectedly falls in love and gives birth to two boys. Refreshingly, Wolas gives an alternative perspective on motherhood to one we normally see in literature. Joan is a strong central character battling her dual lives as an author and a mother, and Wolas recognises that she’s under no obligation to unconditionally love her children. Despite needing some tightening, Wolas’ effortless writing style and characterisation make for an impressive debut.

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WHAT’S ON

interview

I’ve come home at last A major touring production of Sunset Boulevard comes to Swansea Grand Theatre this October. Leading lady Ria Jones talks to MARK REES about “the biggest musical Swansea has ever seen o you believe in fate? Ria Jones does, and when she took to the stage last year to a barrage of boos after replacing Glenn Close in the West End production of Sunset Boulevard, this seemingly low point of her career would turn out to be — as fate would have it — the biggest blessing in disguise. The Hollywood superstar has pulled out of the opening night at the last minute, and the news soon filtered through the auditorium that the stand-in form Swansea had been given the thankless job of taking her place as Norma Desmond. Some of those in the crowd had travelled from around the world to see the big name headliner, and their anger and disappointed spilled over as they vented their frustration at whoever was in front of them — which, in this case, happened to be Ria. But nobody could have predicted what would happen next. Ria took to the stage, sang her heart out, and five minutes later was greeted to another barrage of noise — but this time, it was non-stop applause. The story of how the singer had conquered the naysayers made headline news, and people from New York to Paris were soon talking about the events. Although it came as no big surprise to those of us here in Swansea, who were already fully aware of Ria’s considerable talents. Reflecting on that time 12 months on, she admits that it was a defining moment in her career. “I do believe in fate,” Ria tells me. “I was in the right place, at the right time, and everything came together. It sounds dramatic, but those performances changed my career. People are still sending me messages about it. “I do look back and think ‘wow.’ I went back and sat in the auditorium afterwards and thought, ‘how did I do that?’ “But you just do it. That’s my job, you don’t think about it, you do it. And I will never forget it.” Making the occasion even more remarkable was the fact that Ria was advised not to take the job in the first place. “In the beginning, people thought I shouldn’t take a stand-in role,” she says. “I was thinking, ‘I’m not going to go on stage,’ but I had to do my homework just in case she fell down the stairs or something. It was the best decision I ever made.” And how did she react when she heard the hostile reaction from the crowd? Ria says that she could understand their annoyance,

and was more than prepared for the backlash. “I knew that would happen,” she says. “The audience turned when they found out, and I turned the tannoy down backstage so I couldn’t hear them. But people had travelled from all over the world, and they were disappointed.” So as the underdog, she took to the stage, and after the curtain was raised she sang her heart out, to be greeted five minutes later with rapturous clapping. “At that point, I just thought I’ve got another two and a half hours to go!” she laughs. Not only did that role make Ria the talk of the West End, it also paved the way for her to reprise the role for a major touring production which also stars Strictly Come Dancing finalist Danny Mac and features a 16-piece orchestra. And the best news for us here in Swansea is that it will be stopping off in the city - thanks to the insistence of the leading lady. Which means when Leicester’s Curve’s largescale take on the Andrew Lloyd Webber classic comes at Swansea Grand Theatre for a week’s residency in October, we can all thank Ria for bringing what she describes as “the biggest musical Swansea has ever seen” back home . “I’m thrilled that I’m doing Sunset Boulevard at the Grand, because when people ask me, ‘what’s your dream role?’, it is Norma Desmond” says Ria, who has a long history with the iconic venue. “I’ve never done a professional musical in my hometown, I’ve waited 33 years for this. And it’s not just the city that’s my home — the Swansea Grand Theatre is my home. It’s where I got my child equity card at nine years old in Cinderella with Clive Dunn, and it’s where my mum and dad met.” But despite being surrounded by family and friends for the week, Ria says that she will still be fully focused on the job at hand — maybe even more so with the added pressure of singing to her home crowd. The role of Norma Desmond is no walk in the park, with Ria describing it as “vocally taxing but the most fantastic ride” as she veers from complete joy to utter devastation. And then there’s the potential pinnacle of the whole show, when Ria sings musical highlight As If We Never Said Goodbye, which will have special significance in Swansea. “When I sing the line ‘I’ve come home at last,’ which is so poignant anyway, I’ll want to get it right on home turf. The atmosphere is going to be special, and the adrenaline will take me higher.”

Sunset Boulevard will be Swansea Grand Theatre from Monday, October 16 until Saturday, October 21

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Penyrheol Theatre Swansea PERFORMANCE TIMES AND DATES:

Friday 22nd December at 7pm • Saturday 23rd December at 2pm Saturday 23rd December at 7pm For Tickets and More Information, Please Visit:

www.facebook.com/UpNextSouthWales

It's time to celebrate the NEXT generation this Christmas! It's YOUR time to stand UP and stand OUT during the festivities as UP NEXT arrives this December. We’re inviting you to join us as the stars of tomorrow SHOW case and show OFF their spectacular skills, poise, and talent in a merry and joyous Christmas themed production. Join the best schools, the elite clubs, the champion groups and ultratalented individuals within the theatrical performing stage of South Wales in this up and coming Christmas Spectacular!

Each Production collects and raises money for a different Charity and the show is supported by Media Wales.

SHARE YOUR TALENT! If YOU know or any one or any group looking to share their talent,then we want to HEAR FROM YOU!! Swansea Life and Wales Online are launching a campaign to find young talent and aspiring starts all across South Wales to perform in this HUGE showcase bursting with the best of what South Wales has to offer.

We are encouraging all soloists, groups and performers to express their interest by sending in a short audition clip to upnext@jerminproductions.co.uk. These video clips will not only be viewed by the creative team at Up Next but will also appear online at the WALES ONLINE website where they will be viewed by hundreds, if not thousands of readers. We want to help you use Up Next as your biggest platform, showcase your talent and achieve your dreams! Come and join the future stars of tomorrow to belt “Merry Christmas!” and see for yourself whose spot in the limelight this Christmas is... UP NEXT!

Social diary

KEV JOHNS CHARITY EVENT (page 204) LADIES DAY AT FFOS LAS (page 210) PROSECCO FESTIVAL (page 212)

SOCIAL DIARY • CHARITY EVENT

LIGHTS, CAMERA, AUCTION! WHERE: Marriott Hotel, Swansea TELL ME MORE: Kev Johns MBE held his own first charity evening in aid of The Rising Stars Theatre Company and Paul Popham Renal Support Wales. More than £7,000 was raised on the night through raffles and auctions and there was entertainment from magician Jon Jones, Jimi Webb, The Rising Stars Theatre Company and music from Lost Frequency. Pictures: Ann Dineen, wwwanndineenphotography.co.uk

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;¢ CHARITY EVENT

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SOCIAL DIARY • CHARITY WALK

MAGGIE’S WALK WHERE: Swansea TELL ME MORE: Fundraisers took part in the Walk for Maggie’s event which took pace from the Maggie’s Centre in Singleton along the promenade to Verdi’s in Mumbles.

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SOCIAL DIARY • AWARDS

SWANSEA BAY TOP 100 BUSINESS AWARDS WHERE: Marriott Hotel, Swansea TELL ME MORE: The Swansea Bay Top 100 Businesses Awards returned for a sixth year. It highlights the achievements of the region’s biggest 100 companies, calculated by turnover and compiled by the South Wales Evening Post and Swansea Bay Business Life

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;¢ LADIES DAY

LADIES DAY AT FFOS LAS WHERE: Ffos Las Racecourse, near Trimsaran TELL ME MORE: Annual August Bank Holiday Ladies Day race meeting at Ffos Las Race Course. Pictures: Adrian White www.adrianwhitephotography.co.uk

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SOCIAL DIARY • CELEBRATION

PROSECCO FESTIVAL WHERE: Brangwyn Hall, Swansea TELL ME MORE: The UK’s first ever Prosecco Festival, which is touring nationwide, was held in the city for Prosecco lovers. As well as 40 varieties of fizz, there was Italian street food and live music and entertainment. Pictures: Hoosh Arabi

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SOCIAL DIARY • VIP OPENING

TURTLE BAY VIP OPENING WHERE: Turtle Bay, Castle Street, Swansea TELL ME MORE: Turtle Bay restaurant has opened it’s doors following a VIP party which saw rum, reggae and jerk in abundance. Guests partied in Caribbean style, to the live sounds of reggae legends Laid Black as well as Troy Ellis & Amp; Hail Jamaica. The restaurant is part of the new Castle Square Development. Pictures: Robert Melen

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;¢ HOTEL OPENING

NEW-LOOK MERCURE HOTEL UNVEILING

WHERE: Mecure Hotel, Enterprise Park, Llansamlet TELL ME MORE: The Mecure Swansea Hotel has had a new look. An unveiling took place with cocktails and canapes as well as music from Morriston Orpheus male choir and players from the Ospreys and Swans.

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SOCIAL DIARY • CHARITY EVENT

MUMBOULES DAY WHERE: Southend Gardens, Mumbles TELL ME MORE: Boules players from 32 teams raised more than £5,000 for the RNLI, Newton Neighbourhood Friends, Forget Me Not Swansea and the Lord Mayor of Swansea’s charity fund in the inaugural tournament organised by the rotary clubs of Swansea Bay and Mumbles. Sponsor was Douglas-Jones Mercer Solicitors and there was music from La Musique Française, The Steve Williams Trio, Captain Cat and the Sailors and The Oyster Boys.

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SOCIAL DIARY • CELEBRATION

CAPPUCCINO GIRLS WHERE: Ostreme Centre, Mumbles TELL ME MORE: Lara Johnson Lifestyle sponsored an evening of Mal Pope’s show Cappuccino Girls with proceeds going to Maggie’s cancer centre. Pictures: Robert Melen

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EDDIE’S DIARY (page 222) REAL LIFE BREAST CANCER STORY (page 226) PIN UP PETS (page 232)

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TIME FOR YOU

The Rising Stars Theatre Company Perform

Celebrating a great event with Kev, Whitney and Jimi

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...

ights, camera, auction Oh what a night! My mate Kev Johns MBE put on the best event of the year so far.

Lights, Camera, Auction was Kevâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very first charity evening staged at the Marriott Hotel, in my opinion the best venue in town. It was a time for everyone to support Kev and the two charities he was supporting - The Rising Stars Theatre Company and Paul Popham Renal Support Wales. After decades of Kev working with hundreds of charities and giving his time so freely, it was time for the people of Swansea to return the favour. Hundreds of people from all walks of life came to show the love and respect we feel for this man, who has given so much to the community over the years. To look in the faces of so many people I love all in one room, enjoying

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the evening and giving to these two amazing causes warmed my heart. To top off the evening, my grandson Whitney performed along his fellow superstars in the Rising Stars as they performed two musical numbers in sign language and song. This never fails to make me cry like a baby! This company has gone from strength to strength over the last few years, their performances show that anything is possible if you just work hard enough and believe in yourself, these beautiful people inside and out, shine through. They have no fear and only see the best in everything and everyone. I am so proud to be a patron of this extraordinary company along with Kev. As many of you will know Kev loves a good game at an event, Michael Jackson/Marilyn Monroe did not disappoint, Alan Curtis doing his best impressions of both characters was my personal highlight!

“

I AM SO PROUD

TO SEE MY FRIENDS

SUPPORTING

EACH OTHER AND GIVING

The Marriott Hotel (my second home) donated a night for two but Kev managed to persuade them to throw in an extra night, dinner and champagne. You always get a bonus prize when Kev is doing the auction. Signed football and rugby shirts from our fantastic premier league teams were among the other prizes, along with a trip to the Houses of Parliament and golf days. Over £7,000 was raised on the night with a promise of more to come. My good mate Jimi Webb supplied all the sound gear for free and performed two great numbers to a standing ovation. Fantastic close up magic from Jon Jones had all the guests baffled and roaring music from Lost Frequency made the evening complete.

SO MUCH BACK TO THE

COMMUNITY

I am so proud to see my friends supporting each other and giving so much back to the community. Well done Kev and all involved in the planning of the event. I am already looking forward to the next one!

Eddie x

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NEXT MONTH IN SWANSEA LIFE

Countdown to Xmas - A Festive Season Special The Coat Edit Hearty Autumn Foods Real Life Weddings Cosy Autumn Homes Bonfire Night Treats Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New in Beauty - get ready to put these on your Christmas lists OUT OCTOBER 31

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www.oakleighhouseschool.co.uk admissions@oakleighhouseschool.co.uk

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TIME FOR YOU

LAURA DAVIES speaks to Swansea mum-of-two Anna Thorburn, who gives a brave, open and honest account of her experience being diagnosed with breast cancer, aged 35, and how she is now overcoming it. laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

“There have been two defining moments for me, over the past six months. Moments that will undoubtedly have an everlasting impact on my future. The first is being told I have cancer. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in February, aged 35. It is ridiculously true what they say…You NEVER think it is going to be you! Especially at just 35 and more so when there’s no history of breast cancer in the family.

mammogram.” Tears rolled down my face and Heidi took my hand. “Can you phone my mum please”, I wept. Looking back now, I knew then what was being said. A week later I was called back, and the words came. Breast cancer. I broke down.

The treatment plan got delivered to me there and then a course of six chemotherapy sessions followed by Unlike the stereotypical ‘lump’ that is so famously surgery. associated, I had experienced a shooting pain in my right breast last September. I will never I translated it as, ‘you might die, Anna, before forget it. I was applying sun-cream on holiday you’re going to lose your hair diagnosed and, sweeping my hand over, I felt a sharp, and we’re going to take your deep pain. I remember thinking it was unusual boobs off and that’s just to be on and I didn’t like it. I had always checked my the safe side.’ boobs and I knew them. I had never had any I was in hell. I was told I needed lumps, bumps or pains before. This feeling a CT scan to see if the cancer stood out. As well as being worried, I did try has spread but I was incapable to rationalise things by thinking it could have of understanding any details at been an accidental knock from one of my sons that point. That moment, my life (I have a five and three year old). I started to changed forever. convince myself that that’s exactly what it It was such an overwhelming was. relief a week later when my I went to the doctors almost immediately consultant told me that the cancer Anna’s friends held a after I returned from holiday. I was told hadn’t spread. post-chemo party for her that there was nothing to worry about and I was diagnosed with stage 1, that it was a swelling of the chest bone. grade 3, her 2 positive breast Months went by and still the pain was cancer. Stage 1 means that it there, only now I could feel a hardening on was caught early but the grade the area and another pain on the other side 3, meant it was aggressive of my breast. It wasn’t until February that I (expected in a person so young). managed to get referred to the Breast Care My prognosis was good. I was Clinic at Singleton Hospital. I remember told that the treatment to cure sitting in the waiting room alone, her 2 breast cancer is excellent feeling pretty calm, reading nowadays and I was especially through my appointment letter. fortunate that I was offered the It said that the appointment additional drug Herceptin. included a breast consultant check and, if needed, an I suddenly had fire in my ultrasound and mammogram. I stomach and a strength came over honestly thought I would be out me! I was going to fight this and make after the check. significant changes to my lifestyle. I wasn’t a smoker, drug user or obese, but I was taken through by a lady I was overweight. I needed to cut back who now holds a very special on the glasses of wine mid week and place in my heart, Heidi, one for the past few years. I had led a very of the breast care nurses. I unactive lifestyle. I had felt tired and old put a gown on, lay on the bed and suddenly wanted to bring back the and lifted my right arm above old Anna! my head as instructed by one of the breast surgeons. Going into the chemotherapy unit at Singleton Hospital for the first time is one scary, emotional and eye opening “I’d like you to have an ultrasound Anna,“ she said.“I can experience. After a good cry, I very quickly stopped feel three lumps and it’s just to check whether they’re feeling sorry for myself and believe it or not, I started to cysts.” enjoy it. The staff in that unit are living angels. They work I then went into another room and had to lie in the same tirelessly to ensure that each patient is comfortable and position. Heidi and another nurse were with me and the content. As well as the copious amounts of medication radiographer started the ultrasound. they have to deal with daily, they sit with you and chat. I started to feel scared as it all seemed to get very serious. Chemo visits were always enjoyable for me! It was a time for peace and reflection as well as meeting so many I looked up at the radiographer’s face and I will never different people, all with their own cancer story. forget the words, “I don’t like this; I am not happy with what I am seeing. I am going to send you in for a Lots of people have asked me what chemo is like.The first

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cycle was the hardest for me. Sitting in ‘the chemo chair’ having powerful, intrusive drugs pumped through your veins is tough; brushing your hair and feeling it gently come out (especially when you’ve spent £300 on hair extensions, the month before being diagnosed) is tough; shaving it all off is tough, watching your children’s faces when they see mummy’s ‘new hair cut’ is brutal.

so much fun! I felt relieved that I had got through one massive milestone on the cancer battle but I still couldn’t relax. I had the scans and surgery to go.

MY THANK YOU’S

That’s cancer! I had prepared my eldest son with the inevitability of mummy’s sudden hair change. We had sat down prior to losing it and I had explained that mummy had a poorly boob. I had told him that I needed to take some of George’s marvellous medicine but that mummy’s hair might turn green, fall out or stand on end. Of course being a five year old boy, the thought of mummy having green hair like the Joker was the most horrific thing imaginable so we both said a prayer that it would fall out instead. As shocking as it was to him, my son was very relieved that his mummy had no hair as opposed to looking like the Batman villain!

My wonderful Consultant Dr Bertelli. My two extraordinary surgeons Dr. A Guattaura and Dr Patzrik. The nurses in the Breast Care Clinic (especially Heidi) The most welcoming receptionists I have ever met (in the breast clinic) thank you for the laughs! The angels in the Chemo unit (especially Anita, Janine, John and Dawn) The angels on Ward 12 at Singleton Hospital. The angels on the HDU at Morriston Hospital (especially Laura, Lucy, Jo and Kelly) My Red Cross angel Hazel- I’ll forever adore you! The staff on the chemo triage line! Dr Jamie Richmond (Queens Road Surgery) and lastly, my family and friends.

I was fortunate as I didn’t suffer with nausea or sickness. I did feel ill though. Flu-like ill for a week after. And my energy levels were zilch. I did, however, bounce back and was so grateful to have seven to nine days of feeling well. These days were what I needed, to appreciate how precious life is, and I crammed so many ‘special days’ in with my children, family and friends. It was evident that I had taken life for granted before. Loyal and suppor tive friends As expected, there were many grim days during chemo. I had very low days of feeling ill, scared and physically and emotionally drained. One night, I had felt particularly ill and knew that I had to phone the chemotherapy triage line. My temperature was high and I could barely get out of bed, let alone walk. I was taken to Ward 12 at Singleton Hospital. I wept to myself as I was wheeled up there.

Anna with her mum and friend Sophie

How did a 36-year-old teacher, fun-loving girl, with two small children, become a patient on a cancer ward? Why me? But then, why not me?

I had to stay on the ward for little over a week. It turned out I had become neutroplenic which meant that my immune system was extremely low and my blood counts were zero. My stay on Ward 12 was a positive experience. I will never forget the care, humour, compassion, advice and positivity I received from the nurses on the ward. I got better, had time to reflect and became stronger again. The fight was back on! The NHS get such awful publicity. It amazes me. Every second of the past seven months for me has involved the help, support, guidance and top care from our NHS. I feel utterly blessed and forever grateful to have received the treatment I’ve had for free. To put it into perspective, overall, I have personally received over £400,000 worth of treatment and care. My chemotherapy came to an end on June 24. I’m blessed to have such a wonderful, close group of friends that organised an ‘End of Chemo Party’ which was

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Leading up to the scans and tests were the worst days for me. When you’re having chemo, you feel like you’re actively doing something to try to combat and rid your body from this vile disease. The scans are there to tell you if it worked. Thankfully, the ultrasound showed no tumours. July 24. Surgery Day. The surgery involved a double mastectomy and a D-Ep reconstruction. Which meant that both my breasts were being removed, but I was also having new breastreconstruction from my stomach tissue. In my mind it was a boob job and tummy tuck! I was in surgery for 13 hours and spent eight days in hospital. I spent two weeks after that, at my parents house having the care I needed to recover from the surgery. It was incredibly debilitating and frustrating not being able to do anything. I wasn’t even allowed to pick up a kettle for two weeks.

After a week at my parents house, I remember having a phone call from Heidi. I burst into tears when I heard her voice. She was so cheerful and comforting and I had been feeling so sore and useless. Heidi had phoned to ask me to go into the clinic the next day for the results from Pathology after the surgery. I mentioned at the start that there had been two defining moments. The first I have loosely covered. The second defining moment was being told I was cancer free. Tests showed there were no cancer cells left after the chemo. You’d probably expect me to announce that I was so overwhelmed with the euphoria and that I had celebrated with copius amounts of champagne and danced on tables etc, etc. What did happen on August 7, the day of the news, was that I gave my sons the biggest hug, read them a story and went to bed early! I was exhausted. But more importantly, I had smashed it!”

THINK PINK

TIME FOR YOU

LAURA DAVIES rounds up the incredible products that are supporting Breast Cancer Awareness, this month laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

T-Shirts, £14, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea , with 10 per cent going to Breast Cancer Care

KitchenAid Raspberry 4.6L Stand Mixer, £569, John Lewis, Cardiff, £50 donation to Breast Cancer Haven

Aveda BCA Hand Relief Moisturising Creme 150ml, £22, John Lewis, Cardiff, with $4 going to Breast Cancer Research Foundation wordwide.

Tickled Pink Scarf, £4, George at Asda, Parc Trostre and Gorseinon, 25p from each sale to Breast Cancer Care/Now KitchenAid Raspberry Kettle, £159, John Lewis, Cardiff, £20 donation to Breast Cancer Haven

Tickled Pink Socks, £2.50, George a Asda, Parc Trostre Donation from each sale to be made to Breast Cancer Care/ Now

Jucco Floral Bag designed by Emma Bridgewater, £5, Waitrose, Cowbridge, with 50p to Breast Cancer Haven

WE LOVE

Following on from the success of The BEST Makeup Brush Cleaner, which is made by Walford-Richards Designs, here in Swansea, the product is now available in a limited edition to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It has been coloured a fabulous shade of pink and the already striking packaging has been emblazoned with the iconic pink ribbon. Each Brush Cleaner retails at £25 with free UK p&p with £5 from each tin being donated to the charity during October. Available from www.walfordrichardsdesigns.co.uk

Kusmi Sweet Love Tea, from £5, kusmitea.com, with 10 per cent to Breast Cancer Research Foundation

Pink Jumper, £24, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea with 10 per cent going to Breast Cancer Care

Limited Edition RevitaLash Pink 3.5ml, £104, Limited Edition RevitaBrow Pink 3ml,£99, www.revitalash.co.uk, with 10 per cent of the profits from sales of the Pink RevitaLash and RevitaBrow donated to Breast Cancer Awareness.

Tickled Pink Jumper, £8, George at Asda, Gorseinon and Llansamlet Donation from each sale to be made to BreastCancer Care/ Now swansealife.co.uk 229

to... The Grove Clinic

The Grove Skin Clinic is the creation of Jodie Grove Advanced Aesthetic Nurse prescriber.

Gemeg Accountancy

At GEMEG, we pride ourselves on our high quality of service to our clients, offering a fully mobile personal service where we can attend your place of business or home at a time convenient for you. We offer accountancy and taxation advice for new start-ups from the initial idea to private individuals, self employed, partnerships and limited companies. Our expertise covers self assessment and partnership tax returns, payroll completion, PAYE and National Insurance matters, auto enrolment for pension schemes, limited company accounts, corporation tax returns and VAT. GEMEG is a registered agent with HMRC.

We are experts in our field of Skin Health, Aesthetics and Advanced beauty based in Gowerton, Swansea offering a variety of treatments to address many skin concerns including lip fillers, anti-wrinkle injections, skin peels, medical needling, prescription facials (Environ), IPL Laser Hair Removal along with a range of beauty treatments. Finalist in the prestigious London aesthetic awards two years in a row and commended in the category for Best Clinic in Wales.

01792 447630

91 Sterry Rd, Gowerton, Swansea SA4 3BN www.thegroveskinclinic.co.uk

Rachel Selby Makeup Artist

An expert in my field with over 20 years experience both here in Wales and abroad in Miami, I pride myself in being able to create a look for all occasions. My mantra is that â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;you never get a second chance to make a first impressionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and I strive to do this by using my skills to enhance your natural beauty, not hide it and make you more fabulous than you already are. I tailor each look to suit you, catering to everything from wedding bookings at hotels, to catwalk events or prom preparations at home. Being fully mobile I cover anywhere within Swansea and the surrounding areas. To discuss my range of tailor made packages, including nights out and even personal make up lessons, please give me a call.

Remember self assessments must be filed by 31st October in paper form or 31st January online. Contact us for more information and to see how we can help you.

01792 875789

Mobile: 07725 992533 Email: dave@gemeg.co.uk www.gemeg.co.uk

07534 273923

Email: rsmakeupdesign@gmail.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ RSmakeupdesign

GOWERTON Jonathan Hardy Contractors

With countless’ years experience in laying tarmacadam surfaces in and around Swansea, Jonathan Hardy Contractors are specialists in our field. A family run business, we pride ourselves on offering a personal touch with an emphasis on providing the highest level of customer service. Experienced in various types of groundwork for commercial and residential clients alike, we can offer a bespoke service, tailored to your requirements. From laying expert driveways to supplying aggregates including sand and stone, we do all of the hard work so that you don’t have too!

Fusion Stylists

At Fusion Stylists, we can confidently say that our attention to detail and quality of service is second to none; and our 5 star ratings on Facebook are testimony to this! We aim to deliver a V.I.P style experience to every customer and our friendly and experienced stylists are on hand to create that perfect look you’ve been searching for. Trendy and innovative, we can deliver any style from Unicorn hair and vibrant colours to glamorous up-do’s, perfect for brides or for the prom.

Call us today for a free no obligation quote.

Gower Gym

At Gower Gym and Fitness Centre, we pride ourselves on being a family run, welcoming, friendly gym! Our manager Sam, took over the gym in January and has since been building it’s reputation as more than just a gym, but a place where people can get fit while feeling at home. No matter what your age or body type, we have something to suit with the gym and classes including karate, MMA and spin. Even the younger generation can get involved with school groups from age 11 already having regular sessions. No contract and no joining fee, Gower Gym offers the flexibility that many larger chains do not. Prices start from just £4 for adults per week and £3 for children. Call today to book your free induction.

We use the latest, cutting edge products, including Olaplex treatments, Kerestraight treatment and NXT colours with a range of competitive prices for all occasions. Contact us today.

07971 486457

Email: hardy.jonathan@yahoo.co.uk www.jonathanhardy.net

01792 411538

88 Sterry Rd, Gowerton, Swansea SA4 3BW Facebook: www.facebook.com/FusionStylis

07826 926174

Gower Gym Fitness Centre, Sterry Road, Gowerton, SA4 3BN www.facebook.com/ gowergymfitnesscentre/

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@trinitymirror.com

Name: Rico Age: 3 Breed: Jorkie Likes: Cuddles and treats! Dislikes: Being told off when he’s naughty. Owner: Jack From: Dunvant

Name: Sox Jones Age: 9 Breed: Jack Russell with a Norfolk TerrierLikes: Children, begging for food especially if it is treats and sleeps with his tongue hanging out Dislikes: Rain Owner: Lisa and Ashley Jones From: Cwmavon

Name: Franklyn Age: 3 Breed: Dachshund Likes: Tennis balls and Joes Ice Cream Dislikes: Nothing Owners: Nikita and Martin Winstanley From: Swansea

Name: Ted Owen Age: 4 Breed: Black Labrador Likes: Children, long walks and food Dislikes: Anything to do with being cleaned. He loves rolling in poo but hates having it washed off! Owner: Tania Crole From: Bridgend

Name: Ziggy Age: 7 Breed: French Bulldog Cross Pug Likes: Walks, scratches,the heating on and attention Dislikes: Next door’s dog, animals on TV and being told off Owner: Samira Jefferies From: Neath

Name: Dolly Age: 2 Breed: Cavacheon Likes: Rolling in mud! Dislikes: Being washed Owner: Mike Semmens From: Neath

Name: King George Age: 6 Breed: Puggle Likes: Sleeping, food and being a Pettifor Trust Ambassador Dog Dislikes: Water Owner: The Pettifors From: Llangennith

Name: Bud Age: 7 Breed: French Bulldog cross Pug Likes: Food, lots of sleep and cwtches Dislikes: The bin, large objects and sudden movements Owner: Samira Jeffery From: Neath

Name: Flump Age: 3 Breed: Mixed breed moggy Likes: Sitting like a human, plastic ties and cuddles Dislikes: The Hoover, the hairdryer and when we go on holiday Owner: Jenna Leigh From: Cockett

Find Pets, pet food, pet toys and pet acessories in store! Village Farm, Pyle, Bridgend, CF33 6BJ

232 swansealife.co.uk

Open 7 Days

01656 741443

thepylegardencentre.co.uk

Demy Hair Design

Sharks Swim & Triathlon

JordAn Hair Centre

Sharks Swim & Triathlon Shop is based on Sketty Cross. We specialise in all products associated with Swimming, from Learn to Swim to Racing. We also specialise in fitting wetsuits for triahtlon and open water swimming. We also sell training equipment, running and triathlon apparel and nutrition for training and racing.

Jordan Hair Centre is a great place to come and chill and have a laugh! Not only do we offer great blow dries, colours and cuts, we are experts in greatlenghts hair extensions. We also have a great nail technician who does bio sculpture nails and gel nail extentions. On top of all of this we are now offering threading!! So come along and have a luxury experience with us!

Demy Hair design is a great place to come and relax whilst having a hair makeover. Not only will you have fabulous hair you will also feel relaxed in a friendly and comfortable environment. We cover all aspects of hair services including perming, setting blow drying with business owner Donna. Cut and colouring with our senior stylist Maxine plus our newly qualified stylist Aimee offering introductory prices at 50% off. Free tea and coffee for all clients. Est 2007.

01792 202135

43, Eversley Road, Sketty Swansea

sketty

01792 202795

47 Gower Rd, Sketty, Swansea SA2 9BH

01792 296932

77 Carnglas Road, Sketty, Swansea SA2 9BL

Blinds VERTICAL BLINDS

VENETIAN BLINDS

ROLLER BLINDS

SKYLIGHT BLINDS

0% A REPRESEPR NTATIVE

FINA AVAILANBCE LE

Spread the Cost. Ask for more information Spread the costs of all Blinds and Shutters across 6, 9 or 12months at 0% Interest when you spend £600 or more with a minimum 25% deposit. Representative Example for: Window Blinds Purchase Price £1000 Minimum Deposit (25%) £250 Amount of Credit £750 12 Monthly Payments £62.50

Total Payable Duration of Agreement Rate of Interest (Fixed) APR Representative

£1000 12 months 0% 0% APR

Payment plans are offered by Close Brothers Retail Finance. Close Brothers Retail Finance is a trading name of Close Brothers Limited. Close Brothers Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority. Finance is only available to permanent UK residents aged between 18-75, subject to status, terms and conditions apply.

CHILD SAFETY NEW 2017 FREE HOME FABRIC CONTROLS TO SELECTION FREE design advice and an RANGE ALL BLINDS obligation FREE quotation.

Tel: 01792 896531

Chic are members of the British Blinds and Shutters Association. Your assurance of quality standards.

Unit A2 & A3 Kingsbridge Business Park, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 4HJ

A family business celebrating 27 years in business with over 60,000 customer orders completed ELECTRIC CONTROL

ÂŁ85 FROM AS LITTLE AS

EXTRA PER BLIND

Control at the touch of a button. Ideal for all large or out of reach windows, and for multiple blinds (up to 16 blinds controlled from 1 remote). Operation by battery, Rechargable lithium motor or hard wired.

CHOICE OF MANUAL OR ELECTRIC

The latest addition to our range. A combination of opaque and transparent material gives an outstanding visual eďŹ&#x20AC;ect and the control of light and privacy.

For more information visit our website www.chicblinds.co.uk Email: sales@chicblinds.co.uk or visit our showroom

Grow your diamond The ‘Grow your diamond’ policy at Stephen Hughes Fine Diamonds is a great way of trading up your smaller diamond to that special diamond you’ve always wanted. Pop in store to see us today. 5 Queens Arcade, Quadrant Shopping Centre, Swansea, SA1 3QW | 01792 462999

stephenhughesfinediamonds.com