SWA NSE A
LIFE DECEMBER 2018 JANUARY 2019
Merry Christmas
& Happy New Year!
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9 771750 843018
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12
a w a r d - w i n n i n g M AGA Z IN E
the
Festive EDITION
Shot in Fairyhill’s 24-acre Gower garden
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. Here’s to new beginnings.
Oldwalls, a collection of luxury wedding venues oldwallscollection.com
Contents... D EC E M B E R / J A N UA RY
2 01 9
SWANSEA
FASHION
LIFE
10. PARTY Get ready to dazzle with our glam festive occasionwear 16. SLOPE STYLE Make sure you look fashionable on and off the piste
Editor Laura Davies | 01792 545523 @LawsDx | laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
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PUBLISHER Lisa Cameron | lisa.cameron@mediawales.co.uk Photography Adrian White, Jonathan Myers, Hoosh Arabi, Robert Melen Contributors Lara Johnson & Dom Capel, Lesley Taylor, Sian Day, Joseph Atkin, Andrew Morgan, Dr. Charlotte Jones, Chris Howells, James Richards, Marc White, Daniel Turner and Chris Peregrine
HAIR & BEAUTY
18. A FAMILY CHRISTMAS Outfits for all the family for the big day
42
27. BEAUTY NEWS What is new in December/ January 32. BEAUTY BAUBLES Deck the halls with beauty
Swansea Life, Urban Village, High Street, Swansea, SA1 1NW @swansealife
42. HAIR STYLE The hair trends for 2019
Email: laura.davies@mediawales.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 Trinity Mirror North West & North Wales Ltd, a subsidiary company of Reach 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.uk Telephone: 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 https://www.reachplc.com/ how-to-complain 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, Reach 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 SWANSEA LIFE
61
HEALTH & WELLBEING 45. FOOD BENEFITS Why mulled wine can be good for you 47. KEEP FIT Ski your way to fitness 51. FEELING BLUE How to banish the January blues
57
BRIDE 53. I DO Rachel and Rhys’ dream day
153. NEW YEAR HIGHLIGHTS The best shows to book now
OUT & ABOUT
HOUSE & HOME
144. DIARY DATES Best events this December 148. IT’S PANTO TIME! A round up of the best pantomimes
57. WE LOVE This month’s bridal inspiration
136
WHAT’S ON
164
148 SOCIAL DIARY
135. WALKIES A leisurely walk with Andrew Morgan
158. BEAUJOLAIS Howells solicitors head to Old Havana
136. WEEKEND BREAK A stay in Oxfordshire
160 LAUNCH EVENT Motoki launch their new business
138. LUXURY LONDON A weekend break in the Big Smoke
114
80. HOME SWEET HOME Buy yourself a new home 114. HAPPY SCENT-MAS! Scent your home for Christmas
164. WEDDING AWARDS All the pictures the Welsh National Wedding Awards
MOTORING SOCIAL 142. TEST DRIVE DIARY We try the newest BMW
137
214. HEAD Phphphp hphp hphp hphp 221. HEAD Phphphp hphp hphp hphp phphphphphphp
135. COLOUR TRENDS Check out the Dulux colour for 2019
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FOOD & DRINK
169
TIME FOR YOU
62. FOOD REVIEW We head to the new Seager’s restaurant in Gorseinon
169. GIFT GUIDE Last minute buys for all the family for under £40
67. WE LOVE Mouth-watering foods for Christmas
173. EDDIE Businessman Eddie’s month
74. HEALTHY NEW YEAR Delicious recipes from WW
176. OH BABY Products and essentials for your baby 178. LEGAL ADVICE Tips from the team at Peter Lynn SWANSEA LIFE 5
E D I TO R’ S L E T TE R
Welcome... to your Swansea Life Christmas and New Year spectacular, our bumper combined December and January edition, which has everything to inspire you over the festive season and beyond. I know we say this every year, but how fast has the time flown! It’s hard to believe it is nearly Christmas and the beginning of a new year. Hopefully by now you will have your tree and decorations up and have bought the majority of your presents, but if you are looking for that little bit of extra inspiration check out our last minute gift guide for all the family with buys for under £40. Seeking inspiration for partywear? Discover the pieces that will take you from after work drinks to New Year’s Eve celebrations with plenty of velvet, satin and of course sparkly and sequin fashion to choose from. We also have our ski wear edit, for those of you who are getting reading to go off on the piste as well as cosy loungewear for when you want to put your feet up and just chill out. Plus we also have a gorgeous seven-page fashion spread, with clothing for all the family on the big day. From festive children’s occasionwear to matching family pyjamas, I am sure you will all agree it is super cute and just what Christmas is all about. This magazine is sprinkled with enough festive magic and sparkle to light up the whole of Swansea and beyond! This Christmas and New Year will be quite a different and emotional one for me. It will be the last one my husband and I celebrate as a couple, before we look forward to the arrival of our first child in February. After years of trying for a baby we have a lot to be thankful for from the year 2018, and we are excited to ring in 2019, where our lives will change forever when our little miracle, our son, is born. So Christmas for me will be plenty of eating to make up for a lack of drinking! And there is lots of gorgeous festive foods inside this edition to get you in the mood. If you are fed up of overindulging, we have some delicious low calorie recipes from Weight Watchers (WW), perfect for those wishing to lose some weight after the festivities or foodies wanting some ideas for delicious home-cooked meals. Plus we have all your regular features and a lot more. This magazine is fit to burst! I’d like to take the opportunity to thank all our regular contributors and advertisers and YOU, our loyal readers for supporting us. I wish you all a happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year. Here’s to 2019 and new beginnings!
DEBBIE ROBERTS
Advertising Manager 01792 545626 debbie.roberts@trinitymirror.com
AWA RD -WI N N I N G MA G A ZI N E
SWA NSE A
LIFE DECEMBER 2018 JANUARY 2019
LAURA DAVIES
Merry Christmas
EDITOR
&
Happy New Year!
01792 545523 laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk @LawsDx
THE
Festive EDITION
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ON THE COVER: Getty Images
6 SWANSEA LIFE
SANDRA EVANS
EDITORIAL DESIGNER sandra.evans@trinitymirror.com
Swansea lives OUR PICK OF THE MONTH’S BEST PARTY GET-TOGETHERS (FOM PAGE 156)
156
Beaujolais Day
160
Motokiki Launch
Highly Commended
AWARDS AWARDS 2018 2018
THE FOUNTAIN INN
Welcome to the Family
Celebrate your birthday with us in January or February and receive 10% OFF the bill*
We cater for between 2 & 80 people for a party *ID required
DELICIOUS HOME COOKED FOOD 2 Course Lunchtime Special ONLY £9.95 pp Tues-Sat 12pm-5pm Evening Specials Menu 2 courses £14.95 pp Tues-Thurs 5pm-8pm
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7 swansealife.co.uk
THE PL
UGH Rhosmaen
Sparkle on your special day
Images above coutrtesy of Edmund Shum, Photography First
D
o you wish that you could find the perfect wedding venue? One where all your desires are met. An award-winning boutique hotel nestled within the tranquil surroundings of the picturesque Towy Valley.
The Plough Rhosmaen Llandeilo SA19 6NP 01558 823431 info@ploughrhosmaen.com www.ploughrhosmaen.com
Where you receive a dedicated wedding coordinator who is with you from the very first meeting right through to your special day, providing a bespoke service with meticulous attention to detail, to ensure a flawless and unforgettable experience.
FASHION
FA S H I O N F L A S H W I T H L AU R A D AV I ES laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
String of Beads Sliding Bracelet, £55
Christmas Pave Sphere Charm, £60
sparkle
motherly love
Ice Carving Dangle Charm, £45
Being a mum-to-be I am totally obsessed with local brand, The Tired Mama Collection. I love this yellow and black combo sweatshirt. Yellow is definitely a season must and brightens up the dark and dull winter days. I am already imagining packing it in my hospital bag!
green with envy
Motherly Love Jumper, £26, The Tired Mama, Thetiredmamacollection. co.uk
Get your sparkle on this Christmas with Pandora’s latest collection. As well as Mickey and Minnie Mouse charms to celebrate the 90th anniversary, they have their usual range of Christmas novelty items and winter jewellery. We love this blingy silver range, which oozes glamour with its gorgeous charms and earrings and bracelets and rings. All Pandora, Swansea Quadrant
new year, new you!
cosy
If your planning on keeping fit in 2019 - or even over the festive period, the High Street have some great fitness clothing on offer. Expect plenty of slogans and lots of animal print. I love this leopard print slogan set from Dorothy Perkins in particular. Active Leopard Print Leggings, £20 Dynamic Sports Bra, £16, Dorina.com
Active Black Slogan Vest, £12
Stronger Activewear Tee, £14, Tesco, Parc Fforestfach and Llansamlet
How gorgeous are these accessories from Loulou Boutique at Pyle Garden Village, perfect for cosying up over the winter months. This faux fur scarf, £98, from luxury brand, Helen Moore, is light, luxurious and easy to wear with casual jeans or smart coats. Finish off the look with this adorable grey faux shearling micro bag, £78.
Black Zip Up Jacket, £10, Black and Graphic Detail Leggings, £10 at George at Asda, Llanelli and Llansamlet
We adore this one shoulder green jumpsuit which makes a change from black and is equally as festive. Green is definitely the new black this season. Lotus Jumpsuit, £63, Chichilondon.com
SWANSEA LIFE 9
FASHION
Burgundy Velvet Handbag, £30, Miss Selfridge, Swansea
Metallic Gold Geometric Clutch, £22, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea
Etta Colour Block Clutch, £32, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff
‘tis the season to dress up!
Debut Dress £150, Faith Boots £59, Debenhams, Swansea
If you haven’t bought your party outfit yet, fear not! LAURA DAVIES picks out a number of dazzling outfits and accessories perfect for a Christmas occasion or a New Year’s Eve celebration laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
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Metallic Maxi, £25, George at Asda, Parc Trostre
Saturn Sequin Midi Dress, £99, Monsoon, Parc Trostre
Metallic Pleated Midi Dress, £187.50, Karen Miillen, Cardiff
Embellised Asymmetric Hen Alodie Spot Embroidered Dress, £185, Oasis at Dress, £114, Coast at Debenhams, Swansea John Lewis, Cardiff
Star by Julien Macdonald, £150, Debenhams, Swansea
@LawsDx
Lipsy AC Glitter Maxi Dress, £70, Lipsy at Next, Morfa Retail Park
Sequin Halter Neck Dress, £49, Oasis at Debenhams, Swansea
Purdy Dress, £85, Chichiclothing.com
Lace Bardot Dress, £85, Longtallsally.co.uk
Dune London Ophelea, £225, Dune, Cardiff
Purple Sequin Block Heel Court Shoes, £35 , Wallis at Debenhams, Swansea
Black Silver Tip Court Heels, £28, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea Pink Sequin Stripe Jumpsuit, £44.99, New Look, Swansea
Rainbow Glitter Jumpsuit, £39, Miss Selfridge, Swansea
Red Stripe Velvet Wide Leg Jumpsuit, £29.99, New Look, Parc Trostre and Swansea
Sparkle Jumpsuit, £55, Wallis at Debenhams, Swansea
V by Very Tux Jacket, £42, Cigarette Trouser, £28, Very.co.uk
Jumpsuit, £55, M&S, Swansea
Houston, £69, Office, Swansea
V by Very Sequin T-Shirt , £35, Very.co.uk
Silver Beaded High Neck Top, £75, Miss Selfridge, Swansea
Star by Julien Macdonald x Faith ‘Britney’ Heels, £55, Debenhams, Swansea Wine Glitter Velvet Cold Shoulder Top, £26, M&Co, Cardiff
Mesh High Neck Long Sleeve Embellised Top, £50, Wallis at Debenhams, Swansea
Sequin Cami, £40, Oasis at Debenhams, Swansea Faith Heels, £35, Debenhams, Swansea
bellished Lipsy AC Em 8, Lipsy at Jumpsuit, £7 Retail Park Next, Morfa
V by Very Sequin Dress, £90, Very.co.uk
Gold Shimmer V Neck Dress, £55, Wallis at Debenhams, Swansea
F&F Black Sequin Maxi Skirt, £40, Tesco, Llansamlet
Silver Beaded Midi Skirt, £70, Jon Richard Earrings, Miss Selfridge, £10, Debenhams, Swansea Swansea
Sequin Dress, £75, River Island, Swansea
Rainbow Stripe T Shirt Dress, £55, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea
Necklace, £17, Accessorize, Swansea
Black Sparkle Dress, £35, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea
Earrings, £10, River Island, Parc Fforestfach
SWANSEA LIFE 11
FASHION
Grey/Pink Star Supersoft Crew, £22, Grey/Pink Star Shorts, £14, Next, Morfa Retail and Swansea
Relax and cosy up in style with a new set of pyjamas, pair of slippers or comfy loungewear. LAURA DAVIES rounds up her favourites
Lyra Spot Print PJ Set, £45, Monsoon, Parc Trostre
Foil Spot Wrap Rope, £35, M&Co, Cardiff
COSY UP laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
Eiderdown Bunch PJ Set, £55, Cath Kidston, Cardiff
@LawsDx
Striped Nightshirt, £14, Tesco, Parc Fforestfach
Red Fairisle Hooded Top, £14, Tesco, Parc Fforestfach
Red Check Pyjamas, £19.99, New Look, Swansea
Wake Up & Sparkle Set 3 Piece Set £28, Debenhams, Swansea
M&S Collection Pyjama Set Top, £25, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre
Blue Loungewear Top, £20, Blue Loungewear Trousers, £16, M&Co, Cardiff
Sueudette Fluffy Slippers, £18, M&Co, Cardiff
Red Fluffy Slider, £10.99, New Look, Swansea
Cable Knit Mule Slippers, £15, M&S, Swansea
Layla Multi Pom Mules, £25, White Stuff, Cardiff
12 SWANSEA LIFE
FASHION 1
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1. Leopard Shift Dress, £38 2. Leopard Print High Neck Blouse, £28 3.Black Santa Slogan Jumper, £22 4. Grey Check Over Coat, £75 5. Rust D Ring Wrap Blouse, £28 6.Rose Gold Sequin Cami, £30 7. Red Sparkle Zig Zag Skirt, £35 8. Lilac Embellished Chunky Jumper, £35 9. Snake Skin Ankle Boots, £35 10. Black Silver Tip Court Heels, £28 11. Geometric Clutch, £22 7
HIGH STREET HOTTEST
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1. Blue Glitter Dress, £55 2.Embellished Asymmetric Hem Dress, £185 3.Gold Metallic Lace Dress, £65 4. Bag, £28 5. Reindeer Knit, £40 6.Sequin Cami, £40 7. Sequin Top, £39 8. Pink Fairisle Knit, £40 9. Rainbow Sequin Pencil Skirt, £46 10. Heels, £38 11. Gloves, £14
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LAURA DAVIES shops this season’s High Street styles
7 6
laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
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1. Autograph Dress, £49.50, Earrings, £7.50 2. Per Una Dress, £99 3.Yellow Coat, £89 4. Collection Dress, £55 5. Earrings, £15 6.Animal Print Longline Cardigan, £39.50 7. Star Funnel Neck Christmas Jumper, £29.50 8. Checked Pencil Midi Skirt, £39.50 9. Bag, £29.50 10. Star Funnel Neck Christmas Jumper, £29.50 11. Faux Fur Animal Print Scarf, £25 12. Shoe, £35
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1. Dress, £75, Earring, £12 2. Jumpsuit, £65 3. Blazer, £65 4. Dress, £150 5 5. RI Plus Top, £38 6. Necklace, £12 7. Trousers, £42 8. Print Skirt, £30 9. Red Pom Pom Cardigan, £46 10. Scarf, £20 7 11.Heels, £45 12. Bag, £46
6 1. Feather Bardot Dress, £70 2. Sequin High Neck Dress, £85 3. One Shoulder Sequin Dress, £60 4. Stripe Coatigan, £55 5. Zebra Print Shirt, £40 6. Tinsel Jumper, £36 7. Satin Frill Blouse, £38 8. Berry Tip Faux Fur Coat, £90 9. Velvet Quilted Bag, £39 10. Diamante Barely There Sandal, £65 11. Sequin Midi Skirt, £38
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FASHION
mustard
LBD
FASHION
We love this double breasted mustard dress, which can be worn with a pair of tights and a polo jumper in winter or on its own when the weather starts to get a bit warmer.
This would make the perfect party bag for Christmas. V by Very Multi Sequin Foldover Clutch, £28, Very.co.uk
THIS MONTH
WE LOVE LAURA DAVIES rounds up some of her favourite products this month
MAKE IT BRIGHT!
Mustard Dress, £35, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea
clutch control
laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
A Little Black Dress is always a classic wardrobe staple at Christmas. We have been eyeing up this gorgeous one at Wallis. Black Fringed Dress, £60, Wallis at Debenhams, Swansea
for the family
Leading British jewellery brand Links of London unveil a striking new Christmas campaign for 2018. The brand sends a message of positivity this year to live your best Christmas with your loved ones.The campaign showcases the contemporary new Ovals collection, sparkling Splendour range, alongside trend-led pieces from the Essentials and Sweetie XS collections. Festive Christmas Charms are elegantly draped on sterling silver chains and on sleek cuffs, offering a new way to style up each piece, and create the perfect personalised jewellery collection. Links of London, Cardiff
This Christmas we are totally obsessed with matching Christmas pyjamas and jumpers for all the family. The high street has plenty of great offerings but it is great to see independent Neath-based online shop, The Tired Mama Collection, following the trend. Not only does Tired Mama cater for mums and dads and children, it has extended its range for grandparents also. Prices from £12£24. Visit www.thetiredmamacollection.co.uk or Facebook and Instagram
STEP OUT Take on the cold season in style with these faux fur winter white leather ankle boots from Dune London. Wear with blue jeans and an on-trend teddy coat for maximum style points. Rosewood, £160, Dune, Cardiff
cosy club
You’ll struggle to come up with a cosier look than this for winter. This cwtchy, cuddly collection is all from White Stuff and while it’s colourful, it’s classy, too. The Rainbow’s End jumper is priced at £59.95, Bridget Plain Bobble Hat £25, Amelia Fairisle flip mittens £22.50, the Amelia Fairisle tassel scarf £35. White Stuff, Cardiff
Proud as a Peacock Peacocks has launched its new label and we love It! Envy is the new label for the feminine, confident and glamorous woman who likes to look good for any occasion. The 33-piece collection has two stories – seventies-inspired Disco Dreams and the decadent Opulent Nights. Each piece in the collection is stocked in sizes 8-18 and available at a pay-day splurge friendly. £12-£40. Peacocks, Swansea, Mumbles and Llanelli SWANSEA LIFE 17
FESTIVE FAMILY TIME It’s the most wonderful time of the year! LAURA DAVIES makes sure you and your family look the part this Christmas ready for those treasured pictures on the big day itself. laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
Merry Slothmas Tartan Pyjamas, £26 for adults, children’s from £10, Next, Swansea and Morfa Retail Park
Fleece Reindeer Dungarees and Bodysuit Set, £16, M&Co, Cardiff
20 SWANSEA LIFE
Mens Pyjamas, £16, Boys from £10, Girls from £10, (also available in Ladies, £16, Tesco, Parc Fforestfach, Parc Trostre and Llansamlet
SWANSEA LIFE 21
Embroidered Collar Blouse, £19, Gold Tutu, £22, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff
22 SWANSEA LIFE
Velvet Waistcoat and Shirt Set, £25, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff
SWANSEA LIFE 23
Mens PJ’s, £26; Boys, £15; Womens, £20, M&Co, Cardiff
24 SWANSEA LIFE
Dress, £35, River Island, Swansea
Reindeer Cross Body Bag, £14, Velvet Jumpsuit, £20, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre
FASHION
Floral Dress, £39, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff
Tartan Print Dress, £22, M&Co, Cardiff
John Rocha Girls Dress, £42, Debenhams, Swansea
Ruby Jacquard Dress, £50, Monsoon, Parc Trostre
Baker By Ted Baker Fur Fashion Jacket and Dress Set, £110, Debenhams, Swansea
Sparkle Tutu, £7, Tesco, Parc Trostre and Parc Fforestfach
Mermaid ; Pink Swimsuit, £9 0, Swimsuit, £1 ff M&Co, Cardi
Plum Xmas Santa Shirt (3-16yrs), £11, Next, Swansea
LAURA DAVIES looks at what’s hot this autumn for children laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
Novelty Shirt and Bow Tie, £8, Tesco, Llansamlet and Parc Fforestfach
Blue Santa Embroidered Check Shirt (3months-6yrs), £12, Next, Parc Trostre
Body with Collar and Bowtie, £12, Newbie.com
Baker by Ted Baker - Baby Boys’ Navy Checked Waistcoat, Bodysuit and Trousers Set, £42, Debenhams, Swansea
@LawsDx
Newborn Baby London Mockable Set, £24, Monsoon, Parc Trostre
e Party Dress Sequin Strip Next, 0, £4 ), rs (3-16y Park Morfa Retail
Check Print with Tie Shirt, £12, M&Co, Cardiff
Baby Boy Dinosaur Christmas Shirt, £16, M&Co, Cardiff
Velvet Waistcoat and Shirt Set, £25, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff
SWANSEA LIFE 25
HAIR & BEAUTY
BEAUTY NEWS NEW COLOGNE INTENSE
W I T H L AU R A D AV I ES laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
PART ONE
Bronze Wood & Leather Cologne 50ml, £75, 100ml, £120, available from January.
ALL EYES ARE ON THIS…
Following the success of the 2018 Limited Edition, Elemis No.1 Bestselling deep cleansing balm, now formulated with delicate English Rose will be permanently launching in January 2019. Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm is a powerful cleanser that easily dissolves make-up, daily grime and pollutants for a soft and glowing complexion. Rose petals are steeped in Safflower oil for two days, creating a deeply hydrating, delicately scented extract that leaves skin feeling soft and smooth. Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm, £43, Luxury Cleansing Cloth included, Elemis.com
MATTE AND METALLIC How gorgeous is this palette which features 18 stunning matte and metallic baked eyeshadow shades in intensely rich and silky pigments. You can apply them dry or with a wet brush to intensify the colour. We love it! Barry M Sandstorm Baked Eyeshadow Palette, £12.99, Superdrug, Swansea
invisiblewear
We love Paul Mitchell’s Invisiblewear range which launches in January. It’s a complete line of hair care and styling products that embrace the beauty of imperfection and making chic simple. Never stiff or overstyled, Invisiblewear is formulated with velvet flower to soften hair as it adds texture and volume for relaxed, lived-in looks that take you from day to day. Prices range from £13.75 to £21.95 , Paul-mitchell.co.uk from January
Prep eyes and intensify your eyeshadow with this amazing Lid Lock Eyeshadow Primer from Barry M. It is the ultimate solution for smooth, crease proof eye makeup that stays looking fresh all day and night. Barry M Lid Lock Eye Primer, £4.99, Boots, Swansea (out January 30)
Adding to Barry M’s magically metallic, Molten Metal Nail Paint collection are four new stunning shades. In an array of shimmering, cosmic colours, let Molten Metal give your nails show-stopping style and an instant luxe look. Each of the chrome effect shades have a mirror-shine foil finish that will glisten for days.
SWEET DREAMS
TALON TASTIC!
For a serious overnight potent oil, Scottish brand Beatitude has unveiled two new night oils with 16 proven bio-active ingredients. Renew - Youthful Skin with Vitamin A - is a retinol-rich treatment that works to reduce the signs of ageing and intensely hydrates and stimulates sluggish cells to encourage repair and promote resilience. Collagen production and skin elasticity is improved whilst fine lines and wrinkles are reduced, leaving skin feeling soft and supple with a refined healthy radiance. Also there’s Revitalise – Super Charged Skin with Vitamin C - so you can awake to brighter, tighter and complexion boosted skin. Launching January 7 , £38 for 30ml, £14 for 10 ml, Lovelula.com
NAIL AND CUTICLE TREATS
Jo Malone London has added a new fragrance to its Cologne Intense collection. Bronze Wood & Leather evokes the scent of sultry leather encased in a medley of woods. At once smoky and warm, bronzed by the sun’s evening rays. Enlivened with vibrant juniper and fresh grapefruit and finished with a mysterious twist of vetiver. Why not layer it with another scent to suit a particular mood or style. Compelling combinations include Wood Sage & Sea Salt, Myrrh & Tonka, Pomegranate Noir.
English Rose
L’Occitane is relaunching its iconic Nail & Cuticle Nourishing Oil in a new colour: champagne! What could be more fitting for a product that deserves to be celebrated? With 30 per cent shea oil and almond oil this is a formula you can always count on to rescue damaged nails and give them strength and shine! Plus that is not it! A limited-edition oil with a captivating rose scent will also be joining the range in January. Perfect for caring for nails and cuticles with an extra-feminine touch! Champagne Nail & Cuticle Nourishing Oil 7.5ml, £14 and Rose Nail & Cuticle Nourishing Oil, 7.5ml, £14, L’Occitane, Cardiff
Barry M Molten Metal Nail paints, £3.99 each, Superdrug, Swansea (out January 30)
SWANSEA LIFE 27
Defy Time with Dr Alan Jones Merry Christmas and a Happy New You Defy Time Medical Clinic, Where we invest in the very latest training and technology. where innovations in fields such as the use of Stem Cells are now being copied by world experts. 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
BEAUTY NEWS W I T H L AU R A D AV I ES
We love Bobbi Brown’s Crushed Liquid Lip which gives vibrant fullcoverage creamy colour that packs a punch. This feelgood formula wraps lips in an emollientrich moisture and imparts a sweet sheen for a plumped-up look and comfortable feel. Plus its infused with superfruit oils which leaves your lips super hydrated and smooth. The 14 shades from bare to bold to bright are so blendable they are virtually mistake-proof, Which lippy will be your crush when its launched on January 31? Bobbi Brown Crushed Liquid Lip, £19, Debenhams, Swansea
@LawsDx
PART TWO
EYE COLLECTION
Tom Ford Beauty introduces the ultimate way to update your eye-shadow for the season with seven opulent new Eye Color Quads to satisfy every whimsy. Each eye colour quad is designed with four lush, complementary shades of powder eye shadow that can be used to create a myriad of looks—from a bold, smoky eye to a sexy splash of colour, and everything in-between. Formulated with advanced colour processes, the four sumptuous finishes—sheer sparkle, satin, shimmer, and matte—provide a spectrum of intensity and effects and gorgeously enduring colour. Eye Shadow Quads, £68, Tom Ford, John Lewis, Cardiff (Out January 3) Glow 2 Go Duo Stick, £26 each
GET SELFIE READY WITH CLARINS This season get camera-ready with Clarins new Spring Make-Up Collection, with a range of products to perfect, define and highlight. They include:
Eye Palette, £32 Instant Poreless, £24
PERFECT FOR YOUR TOOTSIES L’Occitane introduces its new Intensive Foot Balm, which is formulated with 25 per cent shea butter, to nourish dry and very dry feet. No more dry and rough skin thanks to its ultra-rich texture and high concentration of shea butter, perfect for the winter months and after a season of partying and Christmas shopping. Shea Butter Intensive Balm 150ml, £22, L’Occitane, Cardiff
BLING THINGS
Discover bareMinerals’ BAREPRO Longwear Lipstick - the first long-wear, vegan lipstick rich in nourishing minerals. Available in 20 soft matte shades inspired by nature’s versatile colour palette, this nude-to-bright range is designed to stand out and stay true all day. Fade and feather-resistant, the weightless gel formula glides effortlessly across lips to nourish and condition via an antioxidant blend of baobab and berry oils, along with protective sunflower seed and jojoba waxes. A breakthrough Mineral Lock Long Wear Technology helps bind pigments in place for clean, comfortable, cushiony results that look and feel like your lips - only better. £23, Debenhams, Swansea
CRUSHED
FIRST VEGAN LIPSTICK
laura.davies@trinitymirror.com
We all like a bit of razzle dazzle around the festive period and this collection by MAC is the real deal. Expect high lacquered lips and molten cheeks which feel like an update of decadent disco glamour which is eternally timeless. Bling Thing Liquid Lipcolour (seven shades), £18, and Dazzle Highlighter (three shades) £25.50, MAC, Debenhams, Swansea
LUCKY RED
This lunar new year get lucky with MAC’s five fearless red lipsticks, (£17.50) including new Lotus Light and Lucky in Love. Take on even more fortunekissed colour with the blossomed-adorned special deco packaging of a powder blush duo, (£25.50) and powder/ blush brush, £28, Debenhams, Swansea.
The story of HEALTHY SKIN starts here.
PICK YOUR PERFECT POUT The fan-favourite, Bobbi Brown Extra Lip Tint, is now available in six shades with Nude, Raspberry and Blackberry tint been launched on January 30. The colour-enhancing, oil-infused balm complements the natural tone of your lips for a sheer tint of colour that is uniquely yours. A nourishing blend of Olive, Avocado and Jojoba Oils condition and soften lips for a moisturised, plush pout. £25.50, Debenhams, Swansea
After weeks of indulging, the new year is a time to pause, take stock and positively plan for the year ahead. This January, Elemis has picked the tools you need to give your skin a fresh start, with four expertly curated skincare systems. Each one is unique, featuring signature products, packed full of potent ingredients from above and below the earth’s surface.
Choose from A Smooth Start - £55, Healthy Kickstart - £40, Restore, Refresh, Renew - £50, Face A Firm Future - £65, available from December 26 at Elemis.com
SWANSEA LIFE 29
38 Ravenhill Road | Fforestfach | Swansea | SA5 5AW T: 01792 587444 72 New Road | Skewen | Neath Port Talbort | SA10 6HE T: 01792 812858 www.hairloungebymarcisaac.co.uk
Highly Commended
AWARDS AWARDS 2018 2018
HAIR & BEAUTY
L’Occitane Verbena Christmas Star, £12, Debenhams, Swansea
Cowshed Tree Decoration Bath & Body Gift Set, £12, John Lewis, Cardiff
Molton Brown Frankincense & Allspice Festive Bauble, £10, Molton Brown, Cardiff
Burt’s Bees Beeswax Bauble Gift Set, £12, John Lewis, Cardiff
Mango Soft Hands, Warm Kisses, £8, The Body Shop, Swansea
Invisibobble Slim Bauble Hair Ties, £5.99, Lookfantastic.com
Santuary Wet-Skin-Panettone-Trio, £8, Boots, Swansea
Soap and Glory Merry Kiss-Much Gift Set, £6 , Boots, Swansea
Too Faced Better Than Sex Ornament, £10, Debenhams, Swansea
Crabtree & Evelyn Pink Rocker Bauble, £15, Crabtree-evelyn.com
tree
beauty Decorate your Christmas tree with LAURA DAVIES’ pick of beauty baubles and ornaments
Caudalie Beauty Elixir 30ml, £12, Feelunique.com
Clinique Beauty Bauble Christmas Makeup Gift Set, £15, Boots, Swansea
32 SWANSEA LIFE
@LawsDx
Floral Street Neon Rose Eau de Parfum Bauble, 10ml, £22, John Lewis, Cardiff
MAVALA Bauble Trio Nail Gift Set, £15, exclusive to John Lewis, Cardiff
This Works Sleep Tight, £13, SpaceNK.com
Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil, £10.50, Debenhams, Swansea
laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
Jo Malone London Christmas Ornament, £22, Jo Malone, Cardiff
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 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.
Beverley had been undergoing chemotherapy after being diagnosed with cancer recently. She has just had her last chemo session and fingers crossed all goes well. Her friends and colleagues organised a surprise fundraising evening for Beverley, and her daughter Ladan asked if I could help make her mum feel glamorous again since losing her hair and eyebrows.
before
Beverley has gorgeous skin although a little sensitive, so I used just a little Nuxe Huille Prodigieuse dry oil followed by Embryolisse Lait Cream Concentrate to prep. Charlotte Tilbury Youth Glow Primer was applied to her whole face and neck area with a Flat Topped Foundation Brush. I then applied Cover FX Powerplay Foundation with the same brush. I applied Nars Creamy Concealer with a concealer brush to the undereye area and on any blemishes to perfect the skin. Using the Large Powder Brush I applied Laura Mercier Translucent Powder all over the face using a press and roll technique. On Beverley’s cheeks, to contour I used Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow blending it seamlessly with the angled cheek colour brush and a touch of Nars Orgasm Blush on the apples of the cheeks. I applied Urban Decay Eye Base to the lids, right up to the brow. This provides a crease free base. Then using the Kim Kardashian X Mario Palette I applied the mid brown shade to the lid with the all over eye colour brush. Using the eye crease brush I used the deeper orange/brown shade along the lash line and into the crease. Using the smudge brush I applied dark brown along the lash line and into the outer corner and under the bottom lashes. Using the eye finishing brush, I dusted the metallic bronze shade across the centre of the lid and also under the bottom lashes. The waterline was filled with Urban Decay 24/7 liner in a deep copper. Next I applied lashings of Dior Exstase Mascara and a pair of Lash Unlimited No7 Lashes. Beverley’s brows were defined with NYX Brow Styler in Blonde and Taupe to create realistic hair, which was literally effortless. Lips were filled with Laura Mercier matte lipstick in Embrace using the Lip Brush and a little soft pink lip gloss just to make it pop. I used Victoria Beckham for Estee Lauder Modern Mercury Illuminator
I used: Walford-Richards Designs “The Complete Makeup Brush Collection” is available on www.walfordrichardsdesigns.co.uk. A set of 12 cruelty free luxury makeup brushes in a vegan leather zip pouch.
to add the finishing touches, which was applied with the fan brush to the cheekbones, tip and bridge of the nose, brow bone and on the chin. This helps to create the most amazing glow. I’m sure you’ll agree Beverley and Ladan look sensational and all set for the surprise fundraising party.
after
HAIR & BEAUTY
Makeover! W ITH
L ARA
JOHNSON
Stylist & salon owner Lara Johnson shares her tips in her monthly column.
Colour statement Model: Layla Occupation: Model and Student Lives: Swansea and Newport
layla says... My hair always feels lank and lifeless. I try to brighten it up with crazy colours but they tend to fade quickly and can sometime look a bit brash. I wanted something that was still a head turning colour and with more shape for a shoot and a busy Christmas and New Year schedule. I wanted to look like a classic film star. Lara, Dom and the team went right through the history of my colour and did lots of tests to make sure my hair was strong enough. My hair was cut and changed to a shorter layered shape that has been much easier to style and looks thicker when I haven’t done anything to it.
the salon says... Layla had mixture of tones through her hair. They were very bright in some areas and very faded in others. We started by cleansing the full head to achieve an even base to work on. We then achieved a blend of colours by using a Balayage sweeping effect. We kept the impact by using pink and amethyst tones at the root which gradually blended into steel grey and blue tones. We then cut the hair into a soft layered shape, this will help Layla achieve more volume easily. To give Layla her evening style we set the hair on Sebastian Professional Eruptek using a Wella conical wand. The hair was set in small diagonal sections. When the hair had cooled, we brushed it into shape and secured with Sebastian Shaper Fierce strong hold hairspray. A classic movie star look brought right up to date. 34 SWANSEA LIFE
After... Before...
Step by step... Classic Bouffant
A timeless classic. Perfect for a black tie event or your work’s Christmas party. It can be dressed with accessories and scarves to give it a completely different feel. Loosen a few pieces around the hairline to give it a real 60’s Brigitte Bardot feel
Difficulty level: Medium I Ideal hair length: Mid length to long hair Assistance needed? No
1
Accessories: Can be dressed with all manner of accessories. A headband for an informal look or a tiara for the evening! What you need • Brush • Hairband • Grips or pins • Hairspray
After...
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Before...
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Part your hair from ear to ear at the back and clip the top section up. (Divide into two if it makes it easier) Fix the lower section into a ponytail Flip your ponytail up and keep twisting your hair into a French twist. Tuck the ends of your hair inside the twist and secure in place with grips or pins Let down the top section and backcomb. Start at the crown and use a comb or fine bristle brush to tease your hair at the roots until it’s almost standing up on its own. Use the fine bristle brush to smooth over the front layer
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Roll up the ends of the top portion of hair around and under to form the base of the Bouffant. If it’s difficult to get hold of secure the ends into band Position it above the French twist and pin in place using bobby pins or hairpins. Secure with plenty of hairspray SWANSEA LIFE 35
FREE
DENTAL, IMPLANT OR ORTHODONTIC CONSULTATIONS IF BOOKED IN JULY 2018 - NORMALLY £75
A R E YO U H I D I N G A RYEOYUORU SH MIIDL IEN? G YO U R S M I L E ?
DENTAL DENTAL IMPLANTS IMPLANTS •• ADULT ADULT ORTHODONTICS ORTHODONTICS FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY Contact us today to arrange your first consultation: COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL & IMPLANT CLINIC
Woods Dental, 65 Walter Rd, Uplands, Swansea, SA1 4PT E: info@woodsdental.co.uk T: 01792 476 714 www.woodsdental.co.uk
WINTER Vs YOUR SKIN During the winter months we turn the heating on, wrap up warm... but do we look after our skin? The elements take their toll on our skin in winter just as much as any other time. Harsh cold winds, central heating, dry the skin causing damage and fine wrinkles. It is essential to look after your skin, our advise is to have a good daily skin regime and also monthly treatments.
HydraFacial
Latest generation of skin resurfacing technology. Combing six treatments in one: Cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration and antioxidant protection.
Crystal Clear Microdermabrasion
A non-invasive deep ex-foliation of the skin using a fine flow of microscopic crystals to gently remove old, dead skin cells layer by layer to successfully treat a wide range of skin problems such as open pores, wrinkles, acne, scarring, blackheads & milia
Chemical Skin Peel
A chemical peel is a technique used to improve and smooth the texture of the skin. Facial skin is mostly treated, and scarring can be improved. Chemical peels are intended to remove the outermost layers of the skin
Non Surgical FaceLift
Gift Vouchers now available
Thermotherapy (warming the skin/ opens pores), Microdermabrasion to clear our pores / treat fine lines, ultra sound, Bio-lift to tone & firm facial contours, LED light therapy to boost collagen, and finished with cryotherapy to close the pores and lock in products.
Skin Specific Facial
Cleanse, tone, mask & moisturise with facial massage and products tailored to your skin type.
01792 775558 Family run business. Est. 2000
o call in t Please for a full n our Salo e list pric
www.swanseasunlounge.co.uk facebook.com/MorristonSunLounge 52 Woodfield Street, Morriston, Swansea SA6 8BW
RADIANT
BRIGHT LIP
HAIR & BEAUTY
Revitalise and soothe skin with this ultra-light, fast-absorbing face serum. Enriched with anti-inflammatory apricot oil, brightening papaya and soothing tea tree oil, it will leave skin feeling soft and supple for perfect makeup application. Use to moisturise and prime skin and as an enriching night treatment. Or add some drops to your foundation for a dewy, radiant finish. Barry M Nymph Radiance Serum, £7.99, Superdrug, Swansea (Out January 30)
Unwind with a Soak
White Cardamom Collection
With this seasonal blend of sweetness and spice, hydrate your body with moisturising effects from the Crabtree & Evelyn’s White Cardamom Collection. Buff & revive in preparation for the party season leaving your skin feeling smooth and refreshed in time to start dancing. White Cardamom Hand Therapy, £18; White Cardamom Body Scrub, £30, White Cardamom Body Cream, £24; White Cardamom Hand Therapy, £8, Crabtree-evelyn.com/uk/en
THIS MONTH
WE LOVE
After all the partying is done, your body will be calling out for a long soak in the bath. We love Neom’s new Natural Multi Mineral Bath Salts which are packed with pink Himalayan salt, safflower, jojoba oil and other purposefully chosen ingredients that are perfectly blended with 100 per cent natural fragrances. In just one bath the bath salts give you 84 minerals that your body needs, working to restore, detoxify and balance, My favourite is Perfect Night’s Sleep Multi Mineral Bath Salts 450g, which is hydrating and totally relaxes and calms you before bedtime. £38, neomorganics.com
LAURA DAVIES rounds up the latest news, trends and best buys for your shopping basket this month
CLEANSES, BALANCES, HYDRATES
We love this gorgeous gift set from Elemis that brings harmony to combination skin and leaves your complexion feeling perfectly hydrated and balanced. The set contains Pro-Radiance Cream Cleanser 30ml, Balancing Lavender Toner 50ml, Hydra-Balance Day Cream 50ml (full size), and Peptide4 Night Recovery Cream-Oil, 10ml, all wrapped up in a gorgeous gift box. Balancing Beauty Secrets Gift Set, £42.50, Elemis.com
laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
Dreaming of Christmas
@LawsDx
Close your eyes and a take a minute to take in the joys of Christmas. Make sure you take a little time aside from the business of the festive with Lush’s Dreaming of Christmas gift set. Featuring Sugar Plum Fairy body scrub, Sleepy shower gel and Snow Fairy body conditioner, this is a perfect pre-Christmas treat. Dreaming of Christmas, £17.95, Lush, Swansea
.. n o w o l g r u o y t Ge
The multi award-winning beauty brand Seoulista Beauty has launched a new collection, the Head-to-Toe Glow Box, ensuring your skin is radiant and glowing throughout the winter social season. Now you can have salon quality results with impressive high-tech ingredients from the comfort of your own home. Each of the boxes contains three incredible Seoulista Beauty products for glowing, party perfect skin in an instant. Our favourite is the Super Hydration Instant Facia: A natural coconut gel-like mask infused with Hyaluronic acid to provide intense hydration. The antioxidant rich serum is packed with vitamins to deeply nourish, for a plumped, youthful and glowing complexion. It also features Rosy Hands Instant Manicure and Rosy Toes Instant Pedicure - the perfect treat for your party-weary feet. Seoulista Beauty Head-to-Toe Glow Box, £24, Seoulistabeauty.com
38 SWANSEA LIFE
Finish off your Christmas look with a bright lip. This hot pink lippy from MAC is just calling out our name. MAC Lipstick Shiny Pretty Things, Both Cheeks, £16, MAC, Swansea
Freshen Up
Stay fresh and flawless with this handy, TSA-friendly travel size of Two Faced iconic weightless 3-in-1 coconut water-infused mist that primes, sets, and refreshes makeup while it helps skin stay hydrated -perfect after a night out on the town. Too Faced Hangover 3-in-1 Setting Spray, Travel Size, 6.8g, £10.20, John Lewis, Cardiff
GREEN
WITH ENVY Create Tom Ford’s signature sexy, smoky eye look with this intense, kohleffect pencil. It combines innovative technology with rich colour pigments and glides on skin for an ultra-fluid application. Use outside and inside the lid for an instant sensual and sultry effect. This Christmas why not vamp it up a little and swap your black/ brown eyeliner with this stunning, metallic green shade. Green is definitely the new black this Christmas. Tom Ford Eye Kohl Intense in Metallic Moss, £29, John Lewis, Cardiff
BRIAN BROWN SALON MODELLING & MANAGEMENT AGENCY
01792 301901
1 BELLEVUE WAY • SWANSEA • SA1 5BZ
HAIR & BEAUTY
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2019
hair trends Check out the top colour predictions for 2019 and products to protect your new hue.
1. Bottle Green
4. Pastel panels
The winter trend for green totally reflects the high street fashion wardrobe for the season. It has high shine, and looks healthy, vibrant and strong. It can be worn with the gold, wine and pine green fashions of autumn/winter.
Here’s one of the latest trends - hair looking stunning with diffusion of apricot into seamless minky tones. These colours are great for autumn/winter. This look is created by placing panels in the right order and using a blending technique.
2. Coloured balayage Balayage is a freehand technique, as no foils or ‘meche’ are used to create the highlights. The term comes from the French word meaning ‘to sweep’ - balayage has softer, less noticeable regrowth lines than traditional highlights, the principal idea being less is more when creating soft, natural looks. Previously, balayage focused on natural hues, but pinks and purples are predicted to become more popular. For example, a muted grey balayage with a touch of lilac through the mid-lengths and ends. The effect? Supersubtle, ultra-lilac vibes. Also honey tones or strawberry blonde can be created. A word of warning, though: you’ll need a pro who can do the freehand dying technique, so this isn’t one to try at home.
3. Flat colour If colours - bright or pastel - aren’t your thing, fear not. “Disciplined colouring” could be big in 2019. People are going to go back to blanket colour, it’s ‘virginal’ hair, to make it look like the colour it was when they were a teenager. It’s a look that can currently be seen on Spice Girl Melanie C. As a complement to that, and to stop brown hair fading to a gingery colour, colourists are using blue and green tints so that it’s true flat brown. It’s a massive reaction to all the bright coloured hair we’re seeing, going back to your natural colour. 40 SWANSEA LIFE
5. Petrol blue Denim hair was a big hit on Instagram this year, but 2019 is going to be all about petrol blue, a more greenish, saturated shade. If you have naturally dark hair and a deep skin tone you’re a perfect fit for this hue. But if you want the colour to last, you may have to bleach your hair first. It does require quite a bit of maintenance. On the model pictured, the hair was bleached first, then toned using L’Oreal Professional Colourful hair range, which is great for any crazy colour.
6. Cerise pink The rich, cherry-esque shade is a nod to the Eighties that can be worn with most of the season’s fashion trends. It looks great with dusty pink, winter green and lavender. It’s vibrant, without the risk of washing out the skin in winter. It’s warm, bright and refreshing.
Shade savers: the best buys Keep your new hue looking fresher for longer with these colour-preserving shampoos and conditioners, from budget to premium.
Head and Shoulders Supreme Colour Protect Shampoo, £4.99, Superdrug, Swansea Redken Color Extend Magnetic Conditioner, £12.35, LookFantastic.com
Aussie Colour Mate Conditioner, £4.19, Boots, Swansea and Parc Trostre
7. Visible roots For a gentle transition into the new season, shadowy roots are starting to make an appearance. Placing some subtle highlights around the face make this look more polished and deliberate, rather than grown out neglected roots. For blondes, that means more neutral tones, neither warm nor cool, fitting with the deeper roots.”
Color Wow Color Security Shampoo, £16.50
FREE
IMPLANT CONSULTATIONS IN DECEMBER NORMALLY WORTH £99
DENTAL IMPLANTS • ORTHODONTICS FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY Contact us today to arrange your first consultation: Woods Dental, 65 Walter Rd, Uplands, Swansea, SA1 4PT E: info@woodsdental.co.uk T:01792 476 714 www.woodsdental.co.uk
ADVERTISING FEATURE
hair colour at i t s be s t
LISA MIDWINTER specialises in hair colour at Rhydian Maher Salon in Swansea City Centre on Castle Street. Lisa says from a young age she always wanted to be a hairdresser and early on into her career realised that hair colour was an obsession for her. Starting her career alongside Rhydian for the global brand Aveda in SA1 meant that a lot of her initial training was based at the Aveda Academy in Covent Garden London enforcing a strong Sassoon influence on her. Now 15 years in Lisa has built a vast knowledge of the effects of colour and the science involved in remedying issues and achieving the perfect beautiful colour. WHAT DO YOUR CLIENTS WANT FROM A COLOUR? In my opinion colouring has changed completely in the last few years. Apart from the obvious need of grey coverage and colour change it’s all about the techniques we use. Our clients have busy lifestyles and although they love visiting the salon its not always easy to find the time, so after the introduction of ombre’s and balayage’s a few years ago clients are still opting for these softer longer lasting looks as appose to conventional highlights which can require more up keep in 10-12 weeks.
These days people are also very conscious about what chemicals they put into their bodies and therefor seek natural alternatives in a product whether it be a face cream, shampoo or even organic food. This trend has had a direct influence on the way we colour hair meaning product brands are now ever evolving to cater for these needs with natural/ sulphate free products. Allergies are also on the rise so to ensure clients safety we insist of patch testing clients in the salon at least 48 hours before any colour service to check for any possible allergens. WHAT INSPIRES YOU? Celebrity looks always tend to dictate how people like their hair to be. I also like “how to” videos on Insta from other leading London salons and celebs. Despite 15 years experience this industry is constantly evolving and you never really stop learning new ideas. If ever I have had to create predictions of GIFT looks for a collection or competition VOUCHERS work then I always look closely at AVAILABLE what’s on the catwalks ahead of time to get a feel of upcoming trends. WHAT’S POPULAR AT THE MOMENT? We are losing length at the moment and creating the longer bob. This is seeing base colours become more solid for a glossier look or reducing the built up balayage look to soft baby lights. And on the polar end of soft and subtle the popularity of vivid colour is rising as we are seeing lots of pinks, rose gold and many more fun daring colour which we apply in the salon with low commitment as they gradually soften and wash out completely unless replenished.
R h y d i a n M a h er H a i r Bo u t i q ue
30 Castle Street | Swansea | Tel: 01792 470274 |
@RhydianMaherHairSalon
SANCTA MARIA HOSPITAL
Affordable healthcare without the wait. Swansea’s only private hospital offering over 250 procedures. Visit www.hmtsanctamaria.org or call 01792 479 040 Sancta Maria Hospital. Care You Can Trust.
HEALTH & WELLBEING
FO O D B E N E F ITS
mulledwine
As you relax with a glass of mulled wine in front of the Christmas tree this winter, you might think the festive season is playing havoc with your healthy choices. But we have glad tidings - your glass of mulled wine is actually brimming with health benefits (well, within reason, of course - and only when enjoyed in moderation!) laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
1. Reducing cardiovascular disease
@LawsDx
bone-weakening condition osteoporosis, by possibly contributing towards increased bone mineral density. This is believed to be down to the resveratrol - a polyphenol plant compound - in red wine, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help protect against bone loss.
Some studies suggest red wine may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, a known cause of heart attacks and strokes. Red wine is a source of antioxidants, and drinking it is thought to help increase levels of ‘good’ HDL cholesterol and eliminate ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol, helping to prevent clogged arteries and heart disease. Nutmeg, another mulled wine stalwart, can also help the cardiovascular system, as studies suggest it reduces cardiovascular disease and can boost heart function.
3. Slowing down ageing
2. Reducing osteoporosis
4. Boosting the brain
Red wine in moderation has also been linked with reducing the risk of the
More resveratrol magic - apparently, it also helps improve blood flow, and studies suggest this may boost brain function and memory. In addition, the nutmeg in mulled wine can help
The resveratrol in red wine is also thought to help rejuvenate cells and slow the ageing process. A high concentration of resveratrol helps fight against damaging free radicals in the skin too, keeping you looking younger.
stimulate the brain, reducing fatigue, stress and anxiety and improving concentration.
5. Beating colds The antioxidants in red wine could even help fight infections and support immunity: A Spanish study found people who drank more than 14 glasses of wine a week had a 40% lower risk of getting a cold than teetotallers. Cloves are also believed to have anti-viral properties.
6. Detoxing The nutmeg in mulled wine may help clear the liver and kidneys of toxins, and is particularly effective as a liver tonic. Nutmeg can apparently also help prevent kidney stones forming.
7. Fighting inflammation The cinnamon in mulled wine has been shown to have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, reducing swelling and restoring normal tissue function. This may help conditions like arthritis. The antioxidants in red wine and in cloves can also help reduce inflammation.
8. Improving gut health The cloves in mulled wine are thought to help increase gut motility, as well as improving digestion. As a result, the cloves are thought to improve digestive problems, including indigestion, wind and constipation.
9. Painkilling The essential oil eugenol, found in cloves, has local anaesthetic and antiseptic properties that can be used to help treat dental problems like toothache.
SWANSEA LIFE 45
HEALTH & WELLBEING
ASK
DR. CHARLOTTE
Christmas & New Year Stress “There ain’t no Sanity Claus” so said Chico Marx ….that quote will resonate with many of us as we feel frazzled with everything there is to do in the lead up to Xmas & New Year.
Feeling overwhelmed with the sheer volume of everything to do? I am a dedicated lover of “to do” lists…sad I know… I find I use my time far more effectively by being able to list all the things I have to do and then prioritising activities / tasks and creating a sensible time line. Sounds boring – maybe but it works for me and encompasses everything from food and drink to decorations, presents, cards and wrapping. Don’t forget to build in some “me time” – vital at this time of year. Money worries? Set a budget and stick to it. Shop around for special offers. Consider pooling resources with other family members or all agree a limit on how much you will spend on each other’s presents – this also works well for secret Santa –challenging but fun trying to buy something personal for a small amount.
This month Sketty GP and Swansea Life doctor Charlotte Jones, focusses on Christmas and New Year Stress
However, if you are anxious about money worries or have debt problems, you can get excellent sensible advice from many sources - I often signpost patients to the Citizen’s Advice Bureau or to the Council’s debt panic button page on their website. Your bank or building society is also a good place to get advice. Be careful with alcohol intake. Without wanting to spoil anyone’s fun, the risk of excess alcohol are well known – increased rates of falls and injuries (sometimes fatal), higher rates of unprotected sex, arguments etc.
Know who to contact if you need emergency help? If in doubt, ring NHSDW or look at the “Choose Well Wales” website – here is a brief summary of services available: (i) NHSDW offers a 24/7 advice line for medical issues (including pharmacy opening hours) and dental advice – ring them on 0845 4647 (ii) Pharmacists – can provide advice on minor ailments, medication queries, assist with emergency contraception and sell a variety of over the counter products (iii) Emergency GP service - available when your surgery is shut – just call 111 (iv) Emergency Dental service accessible via 0845 46 47 if your regular dentist is shut (v) Emergency Depts – Morriston and Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend have full A&E services available 24/7. The Neath Port Talbot Minor injuries Unit is open from 7.30am – 11pm and can deal with anyone aged older than 1 who has had an accident. (vi) Optometrists – experts at acute eye problems and have close links with hospital eye clinics and GP surgeries. Under the Welsh Eye Care Scheme, assessment for acute problems is free. www.eyecare.wales.nhs.uk Above, not helping and you are feeling stressed? There are a number of other avenues of help you can utilise to help: •
Websites such as NHS choices and Mind Cymru
•
Self help books from the library or your GP can prescribe a book from a list compiled by experts
How about thinking of taking part in the Dry January campaign see www.alcoholconcern. org.uk/dry-january-resources
•
Attend a stress control / wellbeing course – ABMU Health Board run a variety of these regularly – contact 07967 612246
Health Preparation
•
Order your repeat prescription early and make sure you have enough to tide you over the holiday period.
Computerised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CCBT) can help look at how we think about problems and Living Life to the Full is an excellent free resource: “www.llttf.com”
•
Speak to your GP if you above aren’t working OR aren’t right for you
If you use a prescription collection / delivery service then check their last days for deliveries.
Lastly, I hope enjoy your festive season: eat healthily, drink sensibly and be merry and here’s to a fabulous 2019 to all
Binge drinking is as hazardous as regular excess alcohol and people are often unaware of the weekly limits. For more information on sensible drinking see www.drinkaware.co.uk.
If you are entitled to an NHS flu vaccine because you are in an at risk group then make sure you have it.
46 SWANSEA LIFE
HEALTH & WELLBEING
ski
YOUR WAY TO FITNESS
Ski season is well under way, which means it’s time to dust off your padded pants and perfect your snow plough. From strong abdominal muscles to leaner lower body, here’s why a holiday on the snow could benefit your waistline.
1. It improves core strength As well as requiring a good deal of courage, getting your balance on the snow is essential for skiing. Engaging the core muscles, including the back and abdominal muscles, is crucial for helping you to stay upright during a downhill session, as well as protecting the spine from injury. From navigating rapid slalom turns to skidding to a stop, skiing involves lots of different highly coordinated movements with intense bursts of tough muscle work. That’s why Olympic skiers have incredibly lean but muscular physiques, with incredible amounts of core strength to keep their body perfectly aligned on the snow.
2. It can help you lose weight It might not feel like it at the time, but skiing is also a very effective form of interval training, involving high-intensity effort with periods of recovery. All that stopping and starting is not only a great cardiovascular workout for your heart, it can also help to shed any unwanted winter weight.
This is because, during a high-intensity phase, the body burns off carbs for an instant hit of energy. During the recovery meanwhile, the body burns fat to help replenish itself after a hard effort. Researchers have found this process can continue for hours after training, helping you to continue to lose weight long after you’ve retired your skis for the afternoon.
A to B on skis is guaranteed to tire out even the most unsettled of sleepers.
3. It boosts your mood
6. It’s a complete lower-body workout
Breathing in lungfuls of fresh mountain air, feeling the rush of it against your cheeks and taking in the postcard panoramas - there’s a reason why so many hit the slopes, year after year.
Skiing is one of the few activities which will give your lower body a blistering workout. As you slide around the slopes, nearly every muscle is engaged to help you turn, bend, jump or simply stabilise your ski pose.
As well as being good for your waistline, skiing is a great activity for boosting your mental health. Studies have shown that being immersed in nature can lower blood pressure and levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which calms the body’s fight-or-flight response. Getting on a sunny slope can also give you a healthy dose of moodboosting vitamin D, which can help combat issues like seasonal affective disorder.
Because your body is constantly in a crouching position, you’ll feel the burn in your legs, as you work your inner and outer thighs, hamstrings, quads and glutes. It’s a much more entertaining way of training your lower body than hours squatting in the gym - and you’ll reap the same leg toning benefits.
4. It can improve flexibility If you haven’t got the patience for yoga, a ski holiday is ideal for improving your flexibility. From hamstrings to hips, skiing is a total-body workout that helps loosen up any neglected muscles. As well as helping to reduce aches and pains the day after exercising, increasing your mobility in general can help reduce the chance of injury, too.
5. It promotes deeper sleep There’s no two ways about it: Skiing is seriously exhausting business. From being on your feet all day to side stepping your way along a mountain, the sheer amount of effort required to get from
Having an active lifestyle can help you naturally feel sleepy at the end of the day, and research has also found that regular exercise, such as the dayin-day-out routine of a ski holiday, can help boost sleep duration, as well as quality.
7. It can keep your ticker in good nick As it’s a muscle, just like any other, your heart needs to be worked to stay strong, otherwise you could be putting yourself at risk of a whole host of negative health issues - and research has found that an hour of downhill skiing can be just as effective as cycling or rowing. By getting the heart pumping at a faster rate on a regular basis through cardiovascular exercise, you can keep arteries clear by raising “good” cholesterol and lowering “bad” cholesterol levels in the blood. Of course, fondue and boozy apres ski traditions aren’t the most heart-healthy of rituals, but when it comes to holidays - much like skiing - finding the right balance is key.
SWANSEA LIFE 47
ADVERTISING FEATURE
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An in-house catering team create delicious, nutritious home cooked meals from our 5 star kitchens. There is also an inhouse professional laundry.
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Residents are welcome to personalize their rooms.
SETTING A STANDARD FOR SENIOR CARE IN SWANSEA At Langland Care we offer exceptional levels of person-centred care and the highest possible quality of life and support. Trained nurses are on hand 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Our trained nurses are at the core of the care and attention we give to our residents - not just in a medical capacity, but also to give peace of mind and reassurance. The staff has an in-depth knowledge and experience, while constant on-going training keeps them up-to-date with new care methods and innovations, as well as the requirements of regulators.
Each Resident at our care homes are allocated a key worker and given individual care plans detailing their needs, likes and dislikes, with input from the residents and next of kin, and they are continually updated. Respect for privacy and dignity is central to our care philosophy. Our purpose is to create communities that enhance the quality of life and give rise to new beginnings and new futures. Professionals care not only for the resident but their family as well, so that families can be safe in the knowledge that their loved one is in safe hands.
A full programme of activities within a pleasant social atmosphere. Including trips out to local attractions around the Gower peninsula.
Small selection of fantastic rooms currently available For more information or to arrange a tour call 01792 366208
Killay Health & Fitness Club Killay Health & Fitness Club is an upmarket prestige and professional gym that offers first class facilities at affordable prices for all your exercise needs. Following on from the successful launch of our gym in February of this year, Killay Health & Fitness Club has now opened a brand new, state of the art, spa. Within the spa there is a sauna, steam room and heated loungers where hard working gym goers can relax after a tough gym session or one of the many vigorous classes we put on throughout the day. From Boxercise to Spin to Yoga, we have a class that suits every type of member, and with one of our many highly qualified instructors you’ll always be in safe hands. We programme all classes in a way to deliver a simple, transformational and effective social experience independent of age, flexibility and fitness level.
SPA NOW OPEN
If you want to push yourself a little further or keep in top shape around the Christmas period, then we also offer advanced personal training sessions that are perfectly tailored to your ability and fitness goals. Get the ball rolling on your killay health and fitness club membership. Drop your details with us and our Club Manager ‘Sara’ will get in touch with you. Alternatively, drive down into the club during office hours and have a look around, you can find us located in The Precinct, Killay, SA2 7BA or give us a call on 01792 208877
Join Now and get up to 20% off all membership plans www.killayhealthandfitnessclub.co.uk contact@killayhealthandfitnessclub.co.uk The Precinct, Killay, Swansea SA2 7BA
Tel 01792 208877
HEALTH & WELLBEING
9 ways to beat
blue monday Monday, January 21, 2019, has been dubbed the most depressing day of the year. LAURA DAVIES looks at ‘pick me ups’ to help you beat not only Blue Monday but all of those dreaded Mondays laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
1. Reach out to those around you When it’s an overcast grey day we may feel gloomy and choose to avoid being sociable. This avoidance may lead to a spiral of negativity. Whilst experiencing prolonged winters and occasional low mood, reaching out and connecting with a friend can improve it instantly. If this is ‘too much’ then connect via text or email and arrange to call or have them call you.
2. Foods to improve mood Feed the brain with essential fatty acids to boost your mood. Turkey is not only high in protein; it contains tryptophan, which is an amino acid that helps boost dopamine and serotonin in the brain. Healthy carbohydrates such as wholegrain foods, which are high in fibre are not only comforting, but they will also help stabilise blood sugar levels, preventing mood dips and irritability. In the winter a vegetable soup with barley and other wholegrains is a warming mood booster.
3. Look after your gut and it will repay you Numerous studies in the past two decades have demonstrated links between gut health and the immune system, mood, mental health and endocrine disorders. Fermented foods contain high levels of probiotics, which top up the healthy bacteria that naturally live in our intestine. They are known for aiding digestion, boosting the immune system and cleaning our gut. They’re a key contributor to the health of the gut-brain axis and have a calming effect on the body, specifically helping with aggression. Fermented foods containing probiotics, include kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles and live yoghurt.
4. Struggling to include kefir into your diet? If you are struggling to include fermented foods into your everyday diet, then opt for a supplement version. “Natures Plus GI Natural powder (£33.75, www.naturesplus.com) contains glutamine, probiotics, digestive enzymes, prebiotics and essential cofactors as well as very specific ingredients such as ginger, turmeric and Serrapeptase to work in synergy protecting the gut from inflammation and boosting gastrointestinal health.
5. Don’t relate to Pathetic Fallacy Just like weather, exercise has a big impact on mood and a little exercise goes a long way. It promotes the feel good hormone, serotonin that regulates mood, sleep and appetite. By taking a long leisurely walk or having a short burst of interval training,
alleviates symptoms associated with depression and anxiety. It’s even more beneficial to exercise outside even in the rain. Even walking on grey days allows UV exposure and regulates circadian rhythm and mood.
6. Beetroot may stain your clothes but it can also leave a smile on your face Incorporating this super food into your life may be more beneficial than you think. Beetroot powder is a fantastic source of the chemical betaine anhydrous and the amino acid tryptophan, both of which are shown to improve your mood. Betaine is a chemical that occurs naturally in the body, but is also found potently in beets. As well as this in order for your body to manufacture serotonin, the neurotransmitter known as the “happiness hormone,” needs a sufficient supply of tryptophan.
7. Cuddle your pet Give your pet a cuddle on blue Monday to start the day in a positive way There is a great evidence that having a pet boosts overall health by reducing stress, increasing immunity, improving mood, making us more sociable, increasing fitness and staving off heart disease and major mood disorders.
8. Harmonise your body and mind Hemp, the sought after natural ingredient, continues to hit headlines thanks to its highly nutritious health benefits. Hemp contains phytocannabinoids, natural substances found in cannabis sativa plants. When we absorb them, they interact with our nervous system, brain and immune system. They do this by mimicking – or helping to increase – the activity of natural chemicals produced in our own body known as endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids have effects on many systems and processes in our body, including digestion and appetite, mood, stress response, sensations of pleasure and pain, our immune system and reproduction. So, phytocannabinoids from cannabis sativa are thought to have beneficial effects in these areas.
9. Dry February Struggling to budge the Christmas bulge? We all know that alcohol is an anti-depressant, so not only will Dry January help improve your mood, but it could also help budge the extra chub that you may have added on over Christmas. Alcohol stimulates appetite so you are more likely to over eat, affects judgment and will power so you are less likely to make healthy food choices and provides ‘empty’ calories that are readily converted into fat in the body. If you’re too late for dry January, be different and try dry February.
SWANSEA LIFE 51
BRIDE
Newlyweds Rachel and Rhys White-Barnes tell LAURA DAVIES about thier dream day at the picturesque Newton House in Llandeilo laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
The couple: Rachel is a 23 year old team leader at Debenhams in Swansea. Rhys is 25 and is a customer service agent for a cycle retailer and they both live in Swansea. How did you meet? We met on Facebook of all places! Rhys added me as a friend and asked for my number, but a few months later we decided to meet in person and very quickly we felt like we had known each other for years. Tell us about the proposal... Rhys proposed to me at my 21st birthday party with both our families and close friends. My dad made a quiz for the party, and the last question was from Rhys, where he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. I couldn’t stop crying because I was so happy. Everyone knew it was going to happen and looking back I remember everyone acting strange up until then!
Where did you get married and why did you choose the venue? We got married in Newton House, Llandeilo. Growing up I would often visit Llandeilo with my parents and walk to Dinefwr Castle which overlooked Newton House. We both fell in love with the venue for its location in the beautiful countryside, surrounded by a deer park and loved it was part of the National Trust. What was the theme for the day, and did you have a colour scheme? I wanted to have a Welsh theme to our wedding which was inspired by the location, so we based our wedding around it. The wedding menu had all Welsh dishes, our tables were named after traditional Welsh female names and we had Welsh spoons for wedding favours. At this time of the year the house is covered by Ivy, so I had Ivy decorating my reception and had it incorporated in my bouquet. The colour scheme came from the colour of my dress, and we settled on a blush pink and navy theme.
SWANSEA LIFE 53
BRIDE
When did you know you had found “the dress” and what style did you go for? It was the fifth dress I tried on and I started to cry, then I knew it was the one. The dress was nothing like I thought it would be and everyone had a completely different guess on what it would be like. It was a complete surprise for everyone! I always wanted tulle, as I love how stunning it looks as it falls. It’s a Justin Alexander dress in blush with a tulle skirt and a beaded bodice. What about your bridesmaids and groomsmen? I had four bridesmaids, my sister Sarah, my sisters-in-law Emma and Laura, and my best friend of 11 years, Sarah. They made beautiful bridesmaids and knowing they were there for me all day really calmed my nerves. Rhys’ dad, Kevin, was also the best man and Rhys had his band members, Lee and Lewis for his groomsmen. They all scrubbed up well! How did you make your wedding personal to you? And did you have any DIY touches? Doing some DIY projects really helped to make our wedding personal to us, and to our family. The wedding plans started two years before so we had a nice amount of time to think of ideas. My whole family got involved with making it what it was and it couldn’t have been more perfect. Our wedding invitations were all handmade and took a whole day to make them all, so we made sure they were nice keepsakes for our guests. My mother made my beautiful bouquet, including the bridesmaids bouquets and the buttonholes, and helped me with all the table decorations. It was the small details like having R&R engraved into some of the guest’s love spoons for wedding favours that made it that much more special! What were your wedding highlights? The room our ceremony was held in was stunning, and we’ve been in love with the location for so long that finally reading our vows to one another is something we’ll always remember. A highlight for the both of us was my dad’s speech! He had the whole room crying with laughter, and even made a slideshow for the both of us, it was brilliant! Did you have a first dance? How did you choose the song? I am a huge Taylor Swift fan and always wanted this song for my wedding, so I don’t think Rhys really had much of a choice! It’s one of her old
54 SWANSEA LIFE
BRIDE
country love songs about a couple growing old together called “Mary’s Song”. Did you go on a honeymoon? Not yet. We had a membership for the National Trust included with our wedding, so next year we are going to visit a number of their locations across the country and have a few holidays at home. What was the best investment you made? (something you are really glad you did, bought, etc) We spent a lot of time at Newton House before we got married and learned about its history and the people that keep it running. It’s now a very familiar place to us and we’re happy we chose the location to hold the most special day
of our lives. We also spent a lot of time with Jenna, who helped us throughout the whole process by organising our day and making us feel welcome every time we visited. I couldn’t have asked for better support and she became an essential part in our wedding experience. So we want to thank her for making our day what it was and the process so much easier!
Photography - James Davies Photography 07875541481
If you could go back and change anything, what would it be? Absolutely nothing. Not even the stressful morning we all had trying to get ready as the bridal party. Everyone was having their hair, makeup and photos for the photographer done all at the same time, so you can imagine what it was like...but it’s a really funny memory looking back! The day was everything I wanted, and more.
SWANSEA LIFE 55
Gift a little bit of the Grove
understated luxury, intimate dining and perfect romance grovenarberth.wearegifted.co.uk
BRIDE
FLORAL CROWN
NEWYLWEDS GIFT
#bridesquad
We love Jewlr’s range of personalised jewellery for the ultimate hen party or bridesmaid accessories. Choose from a selection of bar or text name necklaces and bracelets in sterling silver and yellow, white or rose gold. Prices from £39, Jewlr.co.uk/shop Keep the love flowing with this delicious chocolate gift box. Spelling out ‘Mr & Mrs’, it includes three chocolate hearts for a luxurious and tasty finish. With so many newlyweds opting for gift vouchers and money in lieu of presents, it is a lovely gesture in addition to a cheque or a small something to give on its own. Choc on Choc Mr and Mrs Chocolates, 110g, £6.50, Choconchoc.co.uk
passports
THIS MONTH
WE LOVE LAURA DAVIES rounds up some of her favourite products this month
time to sleep
This pair of Just Married passports is the perfect gift to send the happy couple off on their honeymoon with. Made from real leather, they come in classic white with a message printed in gold foil. Inside there is a vertical pocket on the left and two corner flaps on the right to secure the passport inside. Why not pair them with the matching luggage tags for a coordinated wedding gift?
Bring a personal touch to the bedroom with this quirky set of pillowcases. Featuring simple lettering with the words 'Mr' and 'Mrs' printed on the face, you can have fun deciding who gets which pillow each night. Presented in an attractive fabric cover with envelope style fastening, this set will make a lovely wedding gift for your favourite pair. John Lewis & Partners Mr & Mrs Novelty Pillowcases, Pair, £12, John Lewis, Cardiff
Wedding Leather Passport Holders - set of 2, £22, Paperchase at Next, Morfa Retail Park
John Charles has just launched its new Mother of the Bride/Groom collection spring/summer 2019. And even though we have only had a sneak peek, what we have seen looks pretty good. So if you are lucky enough to have a wedding next year, head to your local John Charles retailer to get your standout outfit.
Pictures: Jan Lima Flowers www.jjanlimaflowers.co.uk, photos, hair andmake-up by Yolanda @yolandakingdon
WE LOVE Your wedding day is supposed to be as personal to you and your husband as possible. So we couldn’t help sharing this gorgeous wedding cake by Swansea-based cake-maker Amelia’s Dream Bakes. The couple, Emma and Sam, were looking for a fun alternative wedding cake that would be a talking point and a colourful eye-catcher. As the couple love playing board-games with their young family and their tables were named after a different game, Amelia incorporated the theme and used all the games subtly throughout the cake with the bride and groom being the Guess Who characters as a topper. The cake fed 120 and included the flavours of vanilla, chocolate and a salted caramel tier. We love it! Cake: Amelia James, Amelia’s Dream Bakes, Visit Facebook and Instagram
congratulations!
MUM’S THE WORD
The floral headpiece is seeing a real revival in past years with brides turning to fresh flora and fauna to accessorise their hair and match their bouquets. We especially love this headdress from Jan Lima Flowers, Cardiff. The mix of large and small bloom roses and hydrangea, with a bit of greenery and a few autumnal berries, makes a bold statement.
Toast the happy couple in celebration of their marriage, with these beautiful champagne flutes. Boasting three Swarovski crystals and a love heart design, 'Mr' is written on one, and 'Mrs' on the other in a white script font. Have their new shared surname engraved beneath so that each and every time they enjoy a glass of wedding fizz, they will be reminded that they are now their own little family. Personalised Petite Heart Swarovski Flutes, £39.99, Gettingpersonal.co.uk
SWANSEA LIFE 57
THE PL
UGH Rhosmaen
Last minute luxury stay
Amazing rates for exclusive last minute deals* at The Plough £95 per room
It is the season for unwinding, so make your last minute escape to the beautiful Towy Valley from just £95 per room.
One night Dinner Bed & Breakfast
The package includes accommodation in a Superior Double or Twin room with a two-course dinner and a full Welsh breakfast the following morning. Guests will also have use of the gym and sauna.
Two nights Dinner Bed & Breakfast £175 per room
based on two guests sharing based on two guests sharing
UPGRADE to an executive room for only £20 * Terms & Conditions apply, please call for details
The Plough Rhosmaen Llandeilo SA19 6NP 01558 823431 info@ploughrhosmaen.com www.ploughrhosmaen.com
ExclusivE • Romantic • uniquE Nestled within over 850 acres of stunning parkland 01639 883553 • orangery@npt.gov.uk • www.margamorangery.com The Orangery at Margam Country Park, Port Talbot, SA13 2TJ Photograph Credit: Lloyd Jones Photography
S L E B EC H PAR K C OU N T RY
E STATE
DISCOVER THE LEAST DISCOVERED
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FOOD & DRINK
seagers at no1 high st LAURA DAVIES heads to the much anticipated new restaurant in Gorseinon, Seagers at No1 High Street laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
A
fter months of waiting and eager anticipation, the new Seager’s restaurant in Gorseinon has opened its doors and I like many of its loyal customers have been looking forward to trying it out.
Seagers at No1 High Street has literally been the talk of the town since the family announced they were returning to the premises where they begun more than a decade ago. Like many, I have fond memories of the Bryngwyn, as it was called then, and have enjoyed hearing about its progress along the way. Since leaving Gorseinon, the family have set up two restaurants - Y Bryngwyn Newydd in Pwll, Llanelli and The Grill House in Waunarlwydd, where they have built up an enviable customer following and gained a reputation for its excellent service and quality food. Not forgetting the busy Porterhouse in Loughor, which they had for a few years before moving to a larger premises. It is fair to say that trying to book a table at the restaurant in its opening weeks would be like trying to win a golden ticket, so I was fortunate enough to get a sneak peek of their new venture before it opened its doors to customers. And what a pleasant shock I had! Living in the area, I heard that the restaurant was having a complete overhaul. But nothing could have prepared me for when I walked through the doors and saw it in all its glory. The two rooms that I remember have been knocked through and the large bar that was once there has gone, which instantly makes the room much more spacious, lighter and almost unrecognisable. A classy, smaller modern bar area, has taken its place, boasting a variety of ales and a good choice of gins. It is much more
62 SWANSEA LIFE
@LawsDx
open-planned, although there are a few snugs and a larger room which caters predominately for bigger groups. A focal point, although not for the faint-hearted or even vegetarians, is the Dry Ageing meat room in which you can see cuts of steak through a showroom window. It is definitely a talking point and offers something a bit different. When my husband and I dined at the restaurant, I must have spent half the time talking about the meat room and trying to learn more about the dry ageing concept. Apparently, it’s the art of allowing the meat to age under controlled conditions, and helps intensify flavour and improve the tenderness of meat. There is also a display board on the wall outside showing the cuts available and how long they have been ageing for, which is quite interesting to look at. So it goes without saying, that when we visited the restaurant, I ordered a dry aged sirloin steak. It had to be done. As a regular visitor to the Seager’s restaurants, whether it is The Grillhouse or Y Bryngwyn Newydd, my favourite meal is definitely the fillet medallions. So it was difficult choosing something different. The staff are well informed about the dry aged steaks and have enough knowledge to give guidance if you are unsure what to try. Tomahawk and T Bone steaks are available on the menu and the waitress gave me a few choices of cuts and sizes. I opted for a 8oz sirloin, (£18) which came with a free steak sauce, in which I chose peppercorn, mushroom, side garnish, tomato and a choice of potatoes - I went for chips. My husband decided on the Stilton Medallions (£18.95) with a red wine gravy, again with chips.
was superb and staff regularly checked our table for drinks and were always on hand, without the feeling of being pestered or watched. The family pride themselves on attention to detail, service and of course, good food. And it is no different at No 1 High Street.
The menu offers everything from steaks, grills, chicken classics and burgers and there is always a fresh fish option every day. There is also an extensive specials menu available with vegetarian options so it is fair to say it caters for everyone. The atmosphere in the restaurant is relaxed and not stuffy and it’s an ideal place to go for a celebration or just a mid-week meal after work.
Of course, we couldn’t resist a third course. I opted for Chocolate Drizzled Profiteroles while Gareth couldn’t look passed his favourite dessert - the chef’s special of Sticky Toffee Pudding, (both £4.95) and what a slab he had!
Our food arrived promptly and my starters were loaded with garlic mushrooms in a creamy sauce and served on brushetta with a side salad. My husband’s spears were full of pump tender chicken and looked delicious. Mains were even better, my steak was perfectly cooked and tasted gorgeous. Usually I like my steak to be medium/rare but due to being pregnant I had to have it more overcooked so went for medium/well and it still tasted delicious. There was definitely a difference between a dry-aged sirloin and a regular one - with a slightly flavoursome and subtle saltier taste. My partner’s stilton medallions looked mouthwatering and he said the stilton combined with the sauce was extremely tasty. Presentation
Children are welcome and food is served daily as well as Sunday dinners, which have already been highly recommended to me. We both had a thoroughly lovely evening at Seagers No 1 High Street and it is good having a nice restaurant back in Gorseinon especially as it’s conveniently located a five minute drive away from my house. The restaurant doesn’t need to rely on gimmicks or meal deals to entice people in - it relies on word of mouth, which is always the best recommendation. Like its other restaurants, it is consistent and reliably-good, with quality food at reasonable prices, served in comfortable, cheery surroundings with excellent and prompt service. Now, you can’t get better than that!
Seagers at No1 High Street, 1 High Street Gorseinon, Sa4 4bx • Tel : 01792 897744 • http://seagers.wales
Pictures: Adrian White, www.adrianwhitephotography.co.uk
For starters I was pleased to see my favourite nachos on offer, although now a sharer for two people, as well as Creamy Garlic Mushroom Brushetta (£5.95) and Tandoori Chicken Spears (£5.95) My husband opted for the latter whereas I couldn’t resist the mushrooms.
SWANSEA LIFE 63
GIFT A LITTLE BIT OF COAST
Delicious food, relaxed atmosphere and a magnificent coastal setting coastsaundersfoot.wearegifted.co.uk
Advertising Feature
Best places to Eat
Restaurant Guide Two great places to eat and drink
SWANSEA
The Smiths Arms 51-52 Neath Road, Hafod, SA1 2HR • Tel: 01792 466776
Family friendly pub serving food daily.
Curry & Pint night every Thursday 5-8pm.
Serving for food MondayWednesday 12-3pm & 5-8pm, Thursday & Friday 12-8pm, Saturday 11.306pm.
Free newly refurbished function room for parties. Car park at rear of building.
Sunday carvery 12-4pm. Choice of 3 meats £6.45.
Book now for Christmas. Prices: 1 course £9.95, 2 courses 12.95, 3 courses £15.95.
SWANSEA
Justin’s Catering The Mill Tea Rooms, Gower Heritage Centre, Parkmill, Swansea SA3 2EH • Tel: 01792 371206 • www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk
New to the Tea Rooms Sunday Lunch.
Children (5-12 years) 2 course £8.95 or 3 course £9.95.
Adults 2 course £12.95 or 3 course £14.95.
Under 5 eat FREE! Take Away simply bring your own plate along and leave the rest to us.
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@tomos_watkin
tomos watkin brewery
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FOOD & DRINK 1
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6 4
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THE FESTIV E EDIT
THIS MONTH
7 9
WE L VE
8 10
LAURA DAVIES picks out her top Christmas Day foods laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk @LawsDx
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1. Taste The Diffrence Melting Billionaires Bombe, £12.00, Sainsbury’s, Swansea | 2. Festive Prosecco and Orange Topped Christmas Pudding 900g, £12, M&S, Swansea | 3. Vegan Butternut, Almond and Pecan Nut Roast, £7.50, M&S, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park | 4. Tesco Vegan Roll Selection, £270g, £2, Tesco , Parc Trostre and Llansamlet | 5. The Best British Free Range Bronze Whole Turkey, 6kg, £60, Morrisons, | 6. Christmas The Best British 28 Day Matured Beef Topside, from £16.25, Morrisons, Morfa Retail Park | 7. Festive Chicken Parcels 600g, £8, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre | 8. Stuffed and Wrapped Pork Fillet 600g, £6 Tesco , Parc Trostre and Neath | 9. Melt in the Middle Chocolate and Salted Caramel Christmas Pudding 660g, £10, M&S, Swansea 10. Extra Special Pork, Turkey & Cranberry Wreath, £5, Asda, Llansamlet and Gorseinon | 11. The Best Cranberry Pistachio Nut Roast, £5, Morrisons, Morfa Retail Park and Parc Pemberton 12. Christmas Shapes Roasting Tray 300g, £1.75, Tesco, Parc Fforestfach | 13. Chocolate & Caramel Gingerbread Man, £6, Asda, Llansamlet and Gorseinon | 14. Extra Mature Cheddar Star Truckle, Mature Red Leicester Star Truckle, Morrisons, Morfa Retail Park and Parc Pemberton | 15. Jumbo Pigs in Blankets 274g, £2, Tesco, Parc Trostre and Llansamlet
SWANSEA LIFE 67
FOOD & DRINK
Drink Gifts LAURA DAVIES rounds up the top tipples for Christmas laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
Let it Sloe Cocktail (350ml), £10, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre A delicious fruity gin based cocktail containing sloe berries, plums and orange peel. The perfect aperitif cocktail, which is ready to drink. Simply add to a cocktail shaker, shake and pour over ice.
Maker's Mark Christmas Jumper Edition (70cl), £30, Asda, Gorseinon and Llansamlet A festive favourite, novelty Christmas jumpers are cosying up with the whisky market - and behold, we think this seasonal staple has really made its mark. A mellow, spicy bourbon, there's something magical about breaking open its signature red wax seal.
Home cooking with Sian Day
A deliciously simple recipe for December...
Slow Cooked Shin of Beef Hands up who’s fed up of Turkey ? I mean it’s a nice change at Christmas for one meal but by the time you’ve used it all up having had Turkey sandwiches,Turkey and chips then Turkey curry were all ready for something a bit more hearty and flavourful. So here is a real crowd pleaser, tasty, easy and packed with flavour. You will need to ask your butcher to remove the bone and trim the fat.
Grey Goose La Collection (5 x 5cl), £26.99, Amazon Pretty neat, Grey Goose have put flavour first with their mini collection of Cherry Noir, L'Orange, Original, Le Citron and La Poire flavoured vodkas. Best for budding mixologists, a grown-up secret Santa or last-minute stocking-filler.
M&S Chateau Barrail 2016, Bordeaux, France, £12, M&S, Swansea First class claret: Tick. Superb vintage: Tick. Receive and upcycle: Tick. M&S have it all wrapped up with their classic style of Bordeaux, presented in a neat gift box that can later be converted into a smart, five-bottle wine rack. Now that's what we call boxing clever.
Nicolas Feuillatte Enchantment Sleeve Reserve Exclusive Brut, £26.99, Waitrose, Cowbridge With its whimsy design - wildlife, flowers, grapes and vines - the number one bestselling champagne in France always delights and charms, with its gorgeously quaffing fine stream of bubbles.
Kraken Ceramic Limited Edition Spiced Black Rum (70cl), £35.90, Amazon With a mighty wish to save the seas, Kraken have partnered with Surfers against Sewage and will be donating £1 from every sale of this year's Salvage bottle to help protect our oceans and beaches. A delectably dark and sustainable way to drink merrily.
The beauty of this dish is after a little chopping the oven does all the work for you. It’s a perfect winter warmer and a real nutrition booster too.
You will need: Serves 4 ■
1kg shin of beef
■
1 large onion chopped
■
3 carrots sliced
■
2 celery sticks sliced
■
3 cloves garlic crushed
■
2x tins chopped tomatoes
■
2/3 of a bottle of red wine
■
1tbs plain flour
■
1 cinnamon stick
■
Sprig rosemary
■
1 bay leaf
■
Seasoning
■
Olive oil
method Turn the oven to 180d Toss the beef in seasoned flour and fry in batches to seal and
brown the meat then set aside. In a heavy based pan fry the onions, carrots & celery until softened Then add the garlic, bay leaf, rosemary, wine, tomatoes and cinnamon. Bring to a boil then add the beef. Then transfer to the oven for approx 3 hours until the beef is falling apart. Remove the cinnamon, rosemary and bay leaf then add some chopped parsley and check for seasoning. Serve with mashed potato and steamed greens.
e! Bon appetit
FOLLOW SIAN’S DELICIOUS RECIPES on her blog page siandaydream.wordpress.com or Tweet her @SianDay SWANSEA LIFE 69
Christmas Brownie Skillet, £6 , Morrisons, Morfa Retail Park
Kitchen Craft 3-Piece Cocktail Making Set, £24.99, Very.co.uk
FOOD & DRINK Dome & Cheeseboard, £22, Laura Ashley, Pontardddulais Road Retail Park.
Gourmet Gadgetry Chocolate Fountain, £32.99, John Lewis, Cardiff
World Traveller Hot Sauce Set, 4 Pack, £5 , Morrisons, Parc Pemberton
Biscuit, Fudge and Tea Gift Set, £18, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park
GIFT GUIDE Gifts for Foodies & Drink Lovers
Veuve Cliquot Yellow Label Brut Champagne with Message Magnet, 75cl, £59, John Lewis, Cardiff
Cheese and Tipple Tasting 350g, £20, M&S, Swansea
Espresso Martini Sparkling Cocktail Gift Set, £30
LAUIRA DAVIES rounds up her top picks laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
Rather Large Cracker, £38, Hotel Chocolat, Cardiff
Pizza Board with Herbs/ Oils, £26, Debenhams, Swansea
The Snowman Biscuit Tin, £35, Biscuiteers.com
Personalised Christmas Naughty or Nice Marmite Jar, £11.99, Prezzybox.com.
John Lewis & Partners Non Alcoholic Gift Box, £25, John Lewis, Cardiff
Panettone Al Prosecco and a Bottle of Prosecco, £29.95, Carluccio’s, Cardiff
Il Massimo, £75, Carluccio’s, Cardiff
Chilli Sauce Set, £15, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton
Twelve Beers of Christmas, £20, M&S, Swansea
70 SWANSEA LIFE
Ginger Hunks, £17.50, Prestat.co.uk
Guided Gower Package DECEMBER 2018 - FEBRUARY 2019 WALKS ON SELECTED TUESDAYS & WEDNESDAYS Stay with us and discover the stunning scenery of Gower with guided walks led by qualified Hill & Moorland Leader, Gaynor Rees. One night: £109 | Two nights: £199 Extra nights: £89 Price based on two sharing a standard room and includes: a delicious cooked breakfast each morning, one or two guided walks depending on the length of your stay, £25 per adult dinner allowance in our restaurant and a packed lunch on your walk day(s).
www.oxwichbayhotel.co.uk/offers for full details and walk information.
- ESCAPE TO THE COAST -
TO BOOK: 01792 390 329 info@oxwichbayhotel.co.uk Oxwich Bay, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LS Quote: SWANSEALIFE18 on booking
St Dwynwen’s Day FRIDAY 25TH JANUARY 2019 Celebrate the Welsh Valentine’s Day with a special 3-course dinner created by our award-winning chefs. £25 per person -Stay the night: £109 Accommodation price based on two sharing and includes: a stay in one of our cosy Secret Garden Pods or Static Homes, the 3-course St Dwynwen’s menu and a delicious cooked breakfast the following morning.
www.oxwichbayhotel.co.uk/offers for full details and menu information.
Terms & conditions: Offers subject to availability. Upgrade to a luxury room for £30 extra per night. Dinner allowance excludes drinks. Accommodation offers are applicable to new bookings only. Existing bookings cannot be changed, cancelled or re-booked under this offer. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.
Gift a little bit of Beach House
‘AA Restaurant of the Year for Wales’, 2018 ‘Swansea Bay Tourism Best Restaurant’, 2017
beachhouse.wearegifted.co.uk
FOOD & DRINK
“inventive and different fusion cuisine” LAURA DAVIES heads to Rasoi Indian Kitchen in Pontlliw for a Friday night Indian treat
It’s a Friday evening and despite it being bitterly cold and wet, the eatery is packed. On arrival, my husband and I are shown to our table, which is cosy and intimate. The restaurant offers a number of snugs and private spots that are tailor-made for family celebrations or for romantic meals – and its vivid, plush décor adds a certain warmth and sparkle to any special dinner date. Diners can enjoy open plan areas with clear views of the kitchen – and watching chefs at work is an eye-catching piece of theatre in itself. Beautiful surroundings add to the enjoyment of any good meal, but of course the focus will always be on the food itself. Looking at the Rasoi menu, it doesn’t reflect a standard Indian restaurant menu - which for me adds to the appeal. It’s fusion meals are inventive and different and it is clear that Rasoi take their food very seriously. Signature dishes like Machi Chatpati - pan fried sea bass, Bombay potato, curried pistachio sauce and vine tomato confit, show how adept their chefs are at conjuring up elegant, pleasing dishes which pay homage to the great Indian food traditions. But, Rasoi also offers your classic Indian dishes as well so if you are a loyal fan of Chicken Tikka Masala, for example, you will not be disappointed. The staff are very attentive and prompt, offering knowledge about particular dishes and advice. For starters, I ordered Tilka Jingha,
marinated King prawns coated with black and white seeds, (£8.80) while my husband went for Scallops Royale, seared scallops with mango, chili and coriander salsa, beetroot sauce and mint chutney. For mains I ordered Methi Chicken (£8.90) - roasted chicken from the tandoor, braised in a fresh peppery fenugreek masala sauce while my partner opted for the Mix Grill, £13.50) which included Tandoori Chicken, Chicken Tikka, Tandoori Prawn, Seekh Kebab and Lamb Chop. We also ordered rice and a keema naan as well as having the obligatory poppadoms and chutney tray as a pre-starter. Rasoi Indian Kitchen is family owned and operated, with a sister restaurant in Swansea’s SA1. All of its spices are sourced direct from India and it is no surprise that the restaurant has become a magnet for foodies who favour its authentic Indian dishes with a modern, inventive twist. From the alluring presentation of its dishes through to the restaurant’s plush and vibrant interior, Rasoi Indian Kitchen exudes style, panache and personality. The Rasoi ethos has always been about offering something extra and something unexpected – after all, how many curry houses have their very own helipad? Our meals echo the attention to detail the restaurant prides itself on. Food is well presented and looks almost fine dining and meals are plentiful and really pack a punch. It is fair to say we were completely full afterwards. However, that didn’t stop us ordering dessert. Our waiter suggested a traditional Almond and Pistachio Nut Kulfi, (£4) an Indian homemade icecream mixed with nuts. We had to choose it, so we shared a portion and it was delicious! We most certainly will be back.
Rasoi Indian Kitchen | Bryntirion Road, Pontlliw, Swansea, SA4 9DY | Rasoiwales.co.uk
Pictures: Adrian White, www.adrianwhitephotography.co.uk
R
asoi Indian Kitchen has won more awards over the years than they have had hot curries, and I must admit I am looking forward to eating at the Pontlliw restaurant.
SWANSEA LIFE 73
FOOD & DRINK
y h t l a e H Eating FOR 2019
After weeks of overindulging over the Christmas period LAURA DAVIES rounds up some delicious recipes from WW - perfect if you are looking to shed some weight or eat healthier in 2019. laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
Simple fish pie Serves 4
prep time 15 minutes cook time 50 minutes 4 SmartPoints value per serving
Ingredients ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■
2 x 250g potatoes Calorie controlled cooking spray 1 onion, thinly sliced 3 tablespoons plain flour 300ml semi-skimmed milk 2 x 300g packs fish pie mix 200g frozen garden peas 15g low-fat spread, melted 200g Tenderstem broccoli
Method
1 1 Preheat the oven to 200°C, fan 180°C, gas mark 6. Bring a large pan of water to the boil and add the whole potatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until you can just prick them with a fork – they don’t need to be cooked through. Drain and allow to cool, then slice into 3-4mm rounds and set aside. 2 Mist a pan with cooking spray and put over a medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until soft. 3 Add the flour, stir well and cook for 1 minute. Reduce the heat and gradually add the milk. Simmer, stirring constantly, for 5 minutes until the sauce has thickened. 4 Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the fish pie mix and the peas. Season to taste, then pour into a 2-litre oval pie dish. Top with the sliced potatoes, brush with the melted spread and season with freshly ground black pepper. 5 Put the dish on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes until the potatoes are golden and the fish is cooked through. 6 Meanwhile, cook the broccoli in a pan of boiling water for 3-4 minutes until tender. Drain and serve with the fish pie.
74 SWANSEA LIFE
French onion risotto Serves 4
prep time 10 minutes cook time 55 minutess 8 SmartPoints value per serving
Ingredients ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■
Calorie controlled cooking spray 3 large onions, finely sliced 1 garlic clove, finely chopped 250g Arborio rice 1.2 litres hot vegetable stock, made using 1½ stock cubes 2 tablespoons grated vegetarian Italian hard cheese 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, plus extra to serve
Method
1 1 Mist a large pan with cooking spray and cook the onions over a medium heat for 5 minutes, then cover the pan with the lid and cook for another20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelised. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. 2 Remove half of the onions from the pan and set aside. Add the rice to the pan with the remaining onions and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. 3 Add a ladle of stock to the pan and stir occasionally until the rice has absorbed
Chicken Curry Serves 4
prep time 10 minutes cook time 35 minutes 7 SmartPoints value per serving
Ingredients ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■
Calorie controlled cooking spray 1 onion, finely sliced 2 garlic cloves, crushed 3cm piece fresh ginger, grated 3 tablespoons mild curry powder 650g skinless chicken breast, diced 400g tin chopped tomatoes 200ml chicken stock, made with ½ stock cube 2 x 250g packs microwave brown basmati rice Juice of ½ lime, plus extra wedges
To serve ■■
2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh coriander, plus extra leaves,
To garnish ■■ ■■
80g fat-free natural yogurt, to serve Pinch of garam masala, to serve
Method
1 Mist a large pan with cooking spray, add the onion and cook over a medium heat for 6-8 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute, then stir in the curry powder and cook for a further 2 minutes. 2 Add the chicken and cook for 2 minutes, stirring to coat in the spice mixture. Add the chopped tomatoes and stock, bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. 3 Cook the rice to pack instructions, then stir in the lime juice and coriander. Serve the curry with the rice and lime wedges to squeeze over. Top with a dollop of yogurt, a sprinkling of garam masala and extra coriander leaves.
almost all of the stock. Repeat until all the stock has been used and the rice is just tender – this will take about 20 minutes 4 Stir in most of the cheese, the chopped parsley and the reserved onions, then season to taste. Scatter over the extra parsley, the remaining cheese and some freshly ground black pepper, then serve.
Chocolate self-saucing pudding Serves 8
prep time 10 minutes cook time 30 minutes 8 SmartPoints value per serving
Ingredients ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■
Calorie controlled cooking spray 150g plain flour 100g caster sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 50g cocoa powder, plus an extra 2 tablespoons for the sauce and ½ teaspoon, to serve Pinch of salt 1 egg 150ml skimmed milk 30g low-fat spread, melted and cooled ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 30g light brown soft sugar
Method
1 Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160°C, gas mark 4. Mist a 20cm baking dish with cooking spray. Sift the flour, caster sugar, baking powder, 50g cocoa powder and the salt into a large mixing bowl. 2 In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg, then whisk in the milk, melted spread and vanilla extract. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until combined. Pour the mixture into the baking dish. 3 I n a small jug, combine the brown sugar with 2 tablespoons cocoa powder and sprinkle over the top of the pudding mixture. Carefully pour over 300ml boiling water, then bake for 25-30 minutes until the top of the pudding feels firm and springy. Dust with the extra ½ teaspoon cocoa powder, then serve. SWANSEA LIFE 75
The Colliers Arms SWANSEA ENTERPRISE PARK CURRIES
Ham & Parsley Sauce
£6.99
Colliers Mighty Stack
£8.95
All served with chips, rice, naan bread and a chutney tub
Corned Beef Pie
£6.99
BBQ Chicken Burger
£6.95
Vegetarian Lasagne v
£7.25
Spicy Five Bean Burger v
£6.95
The Breakfast Burger
£7.50
Chicken Tikka Masala (Mild) Chicken Jalfrezi (Hot)
SUMMER LIGHT OPTIONS
Chicken Korma (Mild)
STARTERS & SHARERS
Chinese Chicken Curry (Mild) Vegetarian Jalfrezi (Medium)
Crispy Garlic Mushrooms v
£2.99
Fish Cakes
£3.20
Beef Madras
BBQ Chicken wings
£3.95
Light Summer Mex
£4.95
£7.95 or 2 for £14.00 Monday to Friday
Combo Sharer
£5.25
½ Rack of Ribs
£5.25
Kebab Sticks
£3.95
Prawn Cocktail
£4.95
SIDES Garlic Bread (3 slices) v Cheesy Garlic Bread (3 slices) Bowl of Chips Onion rings Coleslaw Bowl of Salad Bread Roll
£1.99 £2.60 £1.95 £1.95 £1.95 £1.95 85p
Lamb Rojan Josh
FROM OUR SUMMER SIZZLING CHAR GRILL All served with a choice of homemade chips, jacket potato, or mashed potato, onion rings, sliced mushroom and a ½ grilled tomato with peas & salad 8oz Rump Steak 8oz Sirloin Steak 8oz Rib Eye steak
All served with homemade chips, jacket or mashed potato Freshly Battered Cod £7.95 Breaded Plaice £7.95 Deep Fried Scampi £7.50 Haddock fish cakes £7.50 Battered Haddock £7.50
All served with a choice of homemade chips, mashed or jacket potato & with peas and mixed salad
£4.35
Coleslaw
£4.10
Cheese & Beans
£4.25
Chinese Chicken Curry
£4.40
Pork
£7.95
Prawn Mayo
£4.95
Beef
£7.95
Coronation Chicken
£4.95
Chicken
£7.95
Chicken Teryaki
£4.95
Vegetarian Option (Nut Roast) v
£7.95
SALAD DISHES
DESSERTS
All served with mashed or jacket potato
£3.50 each or 2 for £6.00 Chocolate Lumpy Bumpy
£9.95
£7.25
Toffee Apple Fudge Cake
£9.99
Ham
£7.25
Chicken
£7.25
Rhubarb & Strawberry Cheesecake g
Kebab Chicken Stick (2 Chicken Sticks)
£7.50
Chocolate Fudge Cake
Coronation Chicken
£7.25
Treacle Pudding
Prawn Mayo
£7.99
Ticco Limoncello Bombe
Mixed Grill
£14.50
Pork Chops
£9.95 £15.69 £8.15 £11.25 £1.95
• Red & Wine Shallot Sauce • Dianne Sauce • Pepper Sauce • Stilton & Mushroom
PUB CLASSICS
CHICKEN DISHES
Chicken & Mayo
Our famous Roast of the Day with seasonal vegetables, mashed potato, roast potatoes, stuffing and a Yorkshire pudding topped with our Colliers famous homemade gravy
Pork
£11.35
Add a sauce for only
£4.35
£7.25
£16.95
Surf & Turf
Tuna & Mayo
Beef
Steak Supreme
D-Cut Gammon
All served with a mixed salad
£9.25
16oz T-Bone
Colliers Mega Grill Platter
FISH DISHES
ROAST DINNERS
Jacket Potatoes
Served with chips, mashed potato or jacket and salad where appropriate Steak & Ale Pie
£7.25
Beef Lasagne
£7.25
Ice Cream Sundae
Belgian Waffle Stack
BAKED BAGUETTES Choice of white or brown baguette, all served with salad Chicken Teryaki
£4.50
Coronation Chicken
£4.50
Tuna & Mayo
£4.35
Cajun Chicken & Melted Cheese
£4.45
Rump Steak, Onion & Cheese Melt
BEVERAGES Served in a large mug Black Coffee
£1.50
White Coffee
£1.50
Latte
£2.00
Cappuccino
£2.00
£6.95
Espresso/Chocolate
£2.95
Mochaccino
£2.95
£4.10
Hot Chocolate
£1.95
Bacon & Cheese
£4.10
Tea
£1.50
Prawn Mayonnaise
£4.95
Ham & Cheese
Reggae Reggae Chicken
£7.60
Liver & Onions
£6.99
Chicken & Ribs
£8.50
Ham & Eggs
£6.99
BBQ Smothered Chicken
£7.60
Full Rack of Ribs
£7.95
Cajun Chicken
£7.50
Faggots & Peas
£6.99
Simply Chicken Breast
£6.55
£7.99
Sweet Chilli chicken
£7.60
Homemade Chilli Con Carne
Simply Beef or Chicken Burger
Chicken Kebab Skewers
£7.75
Sausages & Mash
£6.99
Ultimate Burger
£6.95
Tex Mex Chicken
£7.95
Brunch
£7.25
Hawaiian Chicken Burger
£6.95
Chicken Teryaki
£7.60
Chicken & Ham Pie
£6.99
Japanese Twist Burger
£7.25
2 for £12
BURGERS All served with homemade chips and salad, ¼ burgers all served in a gourmet bun £6.50
Monday-Friday, except Bank Holidays All products with Miner symbol, meals served from 12pm until 8.30pm
v = Suitable for Vegetarians g = Gluten Free
Food Served: Monday - Saturday, 12:00pm - 8:30pm | Sunday Lunch: 12:00pm - 5:30pm
The Colliers Arms
SERVING GREAT FOOD ALL DAY EVERY DAY! 2 MEALS FOR £12 MONDAY - FRIDAY 12-8.30pm
Look for the Miner symbol
(excluding Bank Holidays)
SUNDAY LUNCH 12-5.30pm
Tune in to KEVIN THE LANDLORD on RADIO TIRCOED 106.5 FM and online for the best variety of hits and the chance to win a meal for four
Tuesday 8pm - 10pm Saturday 2pm - 5pm
The Colliers Arms is a fantastic family pub in Swansea Enterprise Park with a great reputation for their home cooked meals. There is a huge choice on the menu including all the pub classics. Curries, steaks and superb roast dinners with all the trimmings are on the menu and more. The Colliers pride themselves on their food and good sized portions, this is the main reason for attracting custom through the doors time and time again at the Colliers so if you’ve not tried us yet you’re missing out!
FOOD SERVED 7 DAYS A WEEK... THAT’S WHAT WE’RE FAMOUS FOR!
s l a e m d e k o o c e m o h f Extensive menu o
Jersey Road, Swansea Enterprise Park
Tel: 01792 798340
FOOD & DRINK
BOSS SUNDAY DINNER
JASON EVANS heads to Boss Brewing in Swansea to sample their Sunday dinner, washed down with a pint of their real ale
So when you find a new place to go that does it properly, it is worth shouting about. Boss Brewing in Swansea
is just such place. I’d been to the establishment a few times before for a cheeky pint on the way to or from the Liberty Stadium but following a recommendation from a friend, my wife and I decided to make a Sunday visit to try it for ourselves. We were not disappointed. But let’s back up a bit - first a quick slice of history. Boss launched in 2015 with a brewery on Swansea Enterprise Zone - and they were soon winning awards for their beers. Next they opened the Copper cafe in the city centre (a great for coffee and cake if you are in town) and then earlier this year moved to their brewing HQ to the former cinema building in on Neath Road in Landore. As part of the operation they opened a tap room at the brewery site, and have recently moved into the Sunday dinner game. And as with everything Boss does, they do it well.
The tap room itself is simply furnished, with industrial fittings, and a polished concrete floor. There were a dozen other diners present when we arrived, and we grabbed and a coffee and a table to began to think about our food. The Sunday menu is admirably brief - five starters, three mains, and three puddings. This is how is should be. I went for whitebait for my first dish, while my better half went for prawn cocktail - and both starters were lovely. My whitebait was light, crisp, and perfectly cooked, and came with a green salad with a punchy dressing; the 70s classic across the table from me was rich and saucy, and was soon devoured. Both portions were more than ample, and came with nice crusty, warm bread. So far so good. For mains there was a choice of beef, turkey or veggie, which is reality is no choice at all - there was no way we were going to have anything other than topside of beef. The mains were fantastic - slices of meat and a roastie topped with a Yorkshire pudding and onions, and served with peas, carrots, mashed potato, and cheesy leeks in helpyourself side bowls. The gravy came in a little boat. Nothing fancy, just spot-on. Everything on the table was perfectly
cooked and utterly delicious, and special mention must go to the meat, to the lovely buttery mash, and to the cheesy leeks. In fact the leeks were so good, my wife declared that from that moment on she wanted all her leeks to be cheesy. I do not think for one minute she is joking. Again the portions were more than generous, and had I been less of a glutton I may have stopped after two courses - but with the likes of bara brith, and apple and custard pie on the menu, that was never going to happen. The big slab of pie that duly arrived was terrific. Over two pints of post-grub Boss Brave (do leave room for a beer or two from the bar - it was, after all, made just a couple of yards away from where you are sitting and it would be rude not to partake) we passed verdict on the dinner. My wife - from a Neath / Uplands family which knows a thing or two about good Sunday dinners - summed it up perfectly: The Boss Sunday dinner tastes like a proper, homemade Sunday roast. And there is no higher praise than that. We’ll definitely be going back to Boss for a Sunday dinner sometime soon. Perhaps we’ll see you there.
Pictures: Adrian White, www.adrianwhitephotography.co.uk
W
A good Sunday dinner is a joy - it comforts in a way few meals can do.
Boss Brewing Co | 176 Neath Rd, Landore, Swansea SA1 2JT | Tel: 01792 450978 | www.bossbrewing.co.uk SWANSEA LIFE 78
cOles clOse
HigH nOOk
redcliffe ApArtments
sOld
sOld
sOld Belvoir are excited to offer for sale a very peaceful and spacious one bedroom apartment with a separate annexe in the heart of Caswell Bay, offering spectacular views across Caswell Bay and beyond. £265,000
Belvoir Mumbles are delighted to offer to the market, this unique and rare, three bedroom detached house sitting in a commanding position in the heart of Mumbles and boasting spectacular views over Mumbles and Swansea Bay! £525,000
A contemporary two bedroom detached coach house situated in a quiet cul de sac location in the heart of Swansea.
£144,995 cOAstlAnds
OriOn ApArtments
sOld
sOld We are delighted to offer this stylish and spacious, two bedroom waterfront duplex apartment, with two parking spaces in the ever-popular Copper Quarter Development.
A rare opportunity to purchase an exceptionally beautiful family home in the sought-after and picturesque South Gower village of Oxwich.
£149,950
Averil viviAn
£525,000
rHyd-y-defAid drive
stOnemill
Presenting this stunning two bedroom cottage in the highly-desirable area of Parkmill.
£340,000
£349, 995
glOucester plAce
A beautifully presented and deceptively spacious three bedroom cottage situated close to the heart of Mumbles and only a short stroll from the seafront.
£259,950
Situated in the much sought-after area of Derwen Fawr, is this beautifully presented, three bedroom, detached family home, with a south-facing and landscaped rear garden and £399,950 large driveway with parking for a number of cars.
beAufOrt gArdens
mumbles rOAd
sOld
sOld
sOld
sOld With pleasure, Belvoir are presenting this stunning Four bedroom detached property in the sought after area of Averil Vivian Grove.
sOld
sOld Mumbles - Belvoir Mumbles are pleased to offer for sale this spacious, beautifully presented, two bedroom property boasting sea and coastal views
£220,000
Kittle - Belvoir are delighted to present for sale this gorgeous three bedroom semi-detached dormer bungalow, situated on a quiet residential street in Kittle.
www.belvoir.co.uk/swansea
belvoir swansea 29 Castle Street, Swansea, SA1 1HY Sales and Lettings: 01792 461929 belvoir mumbles 42 Queens Road, Mumbles, SA3 4AN Sales and Lettings: 01792 361656
£245,000
HOUSE & HOME
through the keyhole
Individuality holds sway at unique home All is not what it seems at this property, which comes complete with a stunning view over Burry Port, as CHRIS PEREGRINE finds out.
chris.peregrine@walesonline.co.uk
W
hen Silvia Kesnerus is asked to pinpoint the highlight of her home, she does not take long to answer. “All of it,” she replies “It’s a beautiful home.” And an unusual one at that, with entry at the traditional living quarters level but with the bedrooms below, not above.
“It’s an upside down house, an unusual house,” says Silvia. The three bedroom detached property is described as an unique executive split level home. It has oak doors throughout and spectacular panoramic coastal views, particularly from the balcony. There is a good size plot of land, off street parking and an annexe.
80 SWANSEA LIFE
“We have got the sea in front of us and if we turn around we have got the forest and mountains,” says Silvia, who has lived there with her partner Steff Williams for nine years.”It’s a beautiful place, the whole of it. We are sad to leave.” The need to downsize is the only reason for the move, and she thinks their successors will enjoy living there as much as they have done. The home has part solid oak flooring and a feature solid oak staircase down to the bedrooms. You enter into an open plan kitchen/dining area, lounge, study, cloakroom, two double bedrooms, a family bathroom and a utility room. There is an annexe with two access points and a lounge/kitchen area, bathroom and double bedroom.
There is a driveway with parking for several vehicles, a garage, a store room and the enclosed rear garden has a well maintained patio area, a low maintenance balcony with attractive views and a sloped lawned area with feature flower beds. The living space on arrival is an L-shaped room with three radiators and loft access. It also goes through to the kitchen, and the balcony offers the aforementioned panoramic coastal views. The kitchen has wooden effect laminate flooring and a range of wall and base units with complimentary worktops over, tiled splashback, fitted wine racks, an integrated dishwasher, an integrated eye level cooker, space for a microwave, spotlighting and other elements. Carpet flooring, fitted shelving and a radiator are features of the study, while the cloakroom has tiled flooring and tiled walls. Into the lounge and you will find an electric fireplace with feature surround, two radiators and uPVC French doors opening onto the balcony. Bedroom one has two radiators, fitted wardrobes and uPVC French doors opening onto the rear patio with great views, while bedroom two has wooden effect laminate flooring and a radiator. A range of wall and base units with complimentary worktops, space for washing machine and a tumble dryer, and a floor standing oil boiler are in the utility room, while the family bathroom includes a heated towel rail, a bathtub with swan neck mixer tap and retractable shower head and a walk-in double shower cubicle with rainwater shower head. Features of the annexe include a range of kitchen units with complimentary worktops, space for a fridge, and the property’s third bedroom with an en-suite containing a double shower cubicle. It all starts with the tarmacadam driveway, which can accommodate several vehicles as it leads to the garage. And the welcoming front door leads to a storage room. Last, but not least, is the side and rear patio balcony area.
PROPERTY: Llys Y Wenallt, Graig, Burry Port, SA16 0DF. PRICE: ÂŁ490,000 BEDROOMS: 3 AGENT: Davies Craddock, Llanelli, 01554 779412
SWANSEA LIFE 81
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 FERNS, FERRYSIDE, CARMARTHENSHIRE
117 RHYD Y PANDY RD, MORRISTON, SWANSEA
Spectacular waterside panoramas from almost every room & gardens of this 6 bed detached family home. 5 receptions, 3 bathrooms, fitted kitchen with AGA & utility. A short walk from beaches & amenities. Beautifully landscaped gardens & detached garage. EPC E
An immaculate family home located in Rhyd Y Pandy village & surrounded by countryside. Comprising 3 reception rm's, modern kitchen/breakfast rm, utility, sun room, 5 beds with 2 ensuites, study and 2 family bathrooms. Lovely big private garden, hot tub, outbuilding & detached garage. Great location close to the M4 & Morriston hospital. EPC D
Contact: 01792 367301
Contact: 01792 367301
Offers Over £550,000
Asking Price £425,000
LONG OAKS COTTAGE, PENMAEN, GOWER
MAES YWENNOL, GLANAMMAN, AMMANFORD
Possibly the best hidden spot in South Gower, the fairy tale home is nestled at the foot of Cefn Bryn with glorious, large gardens. Quaint cottage with 3 beds, 3 receptions, kitchen, 2 bathrooms together with a more modern self contained, attached 2 bedroom annex. Heated outdoor pool, hot tub and garage. EPC G
Surrounded by exquisite welsh countryside & breath taking panoramas, the property comes with approx 17 acres of land. You have very generous room sizes, 3 receptions, fitted kitchen, large utility, 6 beds, 4 baths, heated indoor pool & games room. The garden is substantial, landscaped & houses a pizza oven. EPC Additional 27 acres available under separate negotiations
Contact: 01792 367301
Contact: 01792 367301
Offers Over £800,000
Fine & Country Swansea 77 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BN Tel: +44 (0)1792 367301 | Email: swansea@fineandcountry.com
Asking Price £750,000
Regionally 18 offices throughout the region Nationally 225 offices across Great Britain
3 SOUTHEND VILLAS MUMBLES, GOWER
CARISSIMA, RHOSSILI, SWANSEA
An incredible situation on the water's edge of Mumbles Bay. You have magnificent views & a perfect situation allowing easy exploration of Mumbles and Gower. This Georgian listed building has been converted into 3 apartments, No 3 is the top floor apartment, has private access & parking for two cars at the rear of the property. You have 2 reception rooms, fitted kitchen, separate utility, 3 beds & 3 bathrooms. EPC Exempt.
Spectacular sea & countryside panoramas, this detached family home provides modern accommodation comprising fabulous kitchen/diner & large utility, lounge, 5 beds, 2 baths & 1 ensuite. Large block barn & garden with countryside views. You are located in the exquisite Rhossili & only a short walk away from the famous beach itself. EPC D
Contact: 01792 367301
Contact: 01792 367301
Asking Price £495,000
Offers Over £650,000
5 CHURCH LANE, BISHOPSTON, SWANSEA
TYLLWYD NEWYDD, NR BRYNCOCH, NEATH
A charming Georgian period family home, with a stunning country setting & a wonderfully peaceful location in the glorious Bishopston National Trust Valley, Gower. Boasting bags of character, 3 receptions, kitchen/breakfast rm, utility, 4 beds with 1 ensuite & family bathroom. Glorious country garden, summer house & outbuildings. EPC F
A magnificent family home with striking proportions & phenomenal countryside views. Possessing approx 12 acres & equestrian facilities. Beautiful interiors comprising 5 receptions, 6 bedrooms & 5 bathrooms. 3 stables, horse school & planning for 6 stables. EPC D
Contact: 01792 367301
Contact: 01792 367301
Asking Price £575,000
Fine & Country Swansea 77 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BN Tel: +44 (0)1792 367301 | Email: swansea@fineandcountry.com
Offers Over £1,299,950
Internationally Plus 75 offices globally 5000 professional associates all around the world
HOUSE & HOME Colour Changing Filigree Ball Lights, £19.99, Very.co.uk
Light up Words Doormat, £22, Next, Parc Trostre and Swansea
Velvet Tray Wall Mirror, £35, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff Animal Print Armchair, £399.99, HomeSense, Parc Fforestfach
Star Bauble Decoration, £20, Debenhams, Swansea
Cocktail Of Shades Cocktails Neon Light, £70, Talking Tables.co.uk
THIS MONTH
WE LOVE LAURA DAVIES rounds up some of her favourite products this month @LawsDx
Christmas Joy Red and Green Serving Plate, £59.95, Emmabridgewater.co.uk.
laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
House Shaped Salt and Pepper Set, £10, Next, Parc Trostre and Morfa Retail Park
Wake up a Wall Cactus Vase, £42, Abode.com
Cream and Pink Pouffe, £150, Riverisland. com Metal Frame Table Lamp, £65, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff
Vox Concept Chest of Drawers in Grey & Blue, £345, Cukooland.com Set of 3 Diamante Effect Penguin Sculptures, £10, Next, Morfa Retail Park
Hammered Metal Cocktail Shaker, £15, M&S, Swansea Wake Up A Wall Tom Dixon Copper Pendant, £455, Rume.co.uk
Jo Malone London Pine & Eucalyptus Diffuser, £62, Jo Malone, Cardiff
SWANSEA LIFE 85
INTRODUCING
Westacres is a prestigious residential property development company that is passionate about providing high quality homes designed to afford the homeowner the very best in contemporary living. From choosing the location of the developments, through to completion of their prestigious homes, every aspect of the design and construction process is carried out to the highest standard ensuring that our developments create a community that we and our homeowners are extremely proud of. We pride ourselves in our personal service and work alongside each home buyer taking into account their individual needs and visions, wherever possible, to provide the living space of their dreams without compromising on the finished result. The experience and attention to detail of our dedicated team ensures that the highest standards are achieved for every home we build.
Coming soon toCaswell... Summerland offers prospective purchasers the rare opportunity to buy an affordable, modern, high specification home nestled in the heart of Caswell, one of the most sought-after locations within the Gower Peninsula. Located in a peaceful rural setting enriched with local identity, identit this exceptional development boasts a varied selection of contemporary and luxurious house types bordered by lush, mature hedgerows and the dense deciduous woodland of the wider landscape. functionality, each individual home has been Driven by quality and functionalit specifically designed for modern family life. With meticulous attention to detail and internal specifications of the highest standard throughout, every aspect of this development provides prospective purchasers the opportunity to find the living space of their dreams. Externally, Externall a combination of detailed stone work, render and coloured cladding create the optimal balance of contemporary and tradition. As a result, the design enhances the area’s character, maintaining the coastal feel you’d expect from a development merely a minute’s walk away from Caswell Bay.
TEL: 0800 091 1809 Call our sales team now to talk through your opportunities at Summerland.
*Interior photos are shown for illustrative purposes only.
Further information We would be delighted to talk through your opportunities at Summerland, please feel free to give our sales team a call: 0800 091 1809 If you would like to receive one of our brochures please send our sales team an email: info@westacres.co.uk To browse at your leisure, please visit our website for more information: www.westacres.co.uk We look forward to welcoming you at Summerland in the near future.
WEB: WWW.WESTACRES.CO.UK
*Interior photos are shown for illustrative purposes only.
Westacres is an associate company of Morganstone Ltd, a renowned construction company established in Wales in 2008.
www.pablack.co.uk
01600 717 040
black
black
www.pablack.co.uk
www.pablack.co.uk
Prestige homes from Peter Alan Ltd
Coed Glas, Hendy
The Links, Porthcawl
• Move in by March 2019 • PLOT 3, Bronallt • Be a part of this modern and contemporary development with a unique design and its eco credentials and sustainability to the local area. This executive development includes a selection of 4, 5 & 6 bedroom homes both energy efficient and cost effective designs. The development also gives easy access to Swansea city, M4 and local amenities.
• • • • • • •
Gorseinon 01792 894422 £350,000 Bethany Lane, West Cross,
Porthcawl 01656 771600 Eaton Crescent,
£550,000
£430,000
£350,000
For sale with pa black Swansea 01792 641481
Home Farm Way, Swansea
Eaton Crescent, Swansea
Sawel Court, Swansea
• Four bedroom detached • Two en suites • Executive style property St Annes, Mumbles, • Detached double garage • Front and rear gardens • Excellent commuting links (A483, M4) • EPC - C
• Seven bedroom end of terrace • Over Three floors • Generous reception rooms Dylans View, Uplands, • Original features • Enclosed rear garden • Close proximity to local amenities • EPC - E
• Five Bedroom Detached • Indoor heated swimming pool •Gower Large family kitchen Road, Sketty, • Generous plot • Triple garage and converted workshop • Excellent access to M4 • EPC - D
Gorseinon 01792
For sale with pa black Swansea 894422 01792 641481
Cardiff Monmouth Penarth Porthcawl Newport
£410,000 £320,000
Swansea 01792
£400,000
For sale with pa black Swansea 641481 01792 641481
£450,000
Gorseinon 01792
£475,000
For sale with pa black Swansea 894422 01792 641481
Delivering exceptional service for exceptional homes
£395,000
©LW
For sale with pa black Swansea 01792 641481
NOW AVAILABLE Two Double Bedroom Ground Floor Apartment En-Suite to Master Bedroom Two Allocated Parking Spaces Open Plan Living, Private Terrace to the Rear Stunning Location with Sea Views over Rest Bay Other plots are also now available
QUALITY WOODEN FLOORING AND CARPETS.. ...all at great affordable prices
DESIGNER CARPET BRANDS
304 Carmarthen Road, Cwmbwrla, Swansea SA5 8NJ
01792 474922 www.ksc-carpets.com
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE a wide range of styles and designs available
ALL THE LEADING BRANDS IN STORE
A WIDE RANGE OF BRANDS IN STOCK
FULLY FITTED WOODEN FLOORING
YOU WILL BE FLOORED BY OUR PRICES & SERVICE FREE CUSTOMER PARKING AT REAR OF OUR STORE
HOUSE & HOME
1
L E S L E Y
TAY LO R
The future’s bright, the future’s fabulous As we bid farewell to 2018, interior designer Lesley Taylor looks ahead to one of the key trends making a massive impact in 2019
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Have you ever taken down all your Christmas decorations, looked around the home and thought ‘I need something new’? January is a great time to start thinking about home improvement; after all, the madness of the Christmas period is done and dusted and there are some fantastic bargains to be had in the new year sales.
1. Crittall-style doors are perfect for partitioning rooms; combine with London Funk tiles from The Baked Tile Company for a truly Art Deco feel 2. Bar carts and trolleys were big news in 2018 and look set to stick around in 2019
Well if you’re thinking about introducing a new look into your home this year, 2019 is bringing with it some fantastic trends to ensure it looks better than ever.
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3. Scalloped edges are going to be everywhere. Tiles from the Fes collection from bakedtiles.co.uk
And one of the most exciting is a return of the Art Deco look. Art Deco has been on the fringes of a comeback for some time, with the return of the glamourous bar cart and our passion for all things gold. But in 2019 it is set to return to the fore and bring with it some fabulous new looks.
4. Invest in some key pieces, such as a new cutlery set, to get the look 5. Gold taps and accessories will give kitchens and bathrooms a real Art Deco touch
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Such as scallops, curved edges are going to be everywhere, from furniture and tiles to kitchen accessories and cupboards. And it’s a look that works in every home because it isn’t tied to a single colour or scheme and best of all, it’s within most budgets. Something slightly pricier, but still in the Art Deco aesthetic are Crittall-style doors.
4 90 SWANSEA LIFE
With the increase in open plan living, more and more homeowners are looking
for ways to open up their living spaces. Crittall-inspired walls and doors are perfect. The industrial-inspired grid-like doors allow the home to be separated into distinct sections without blocking the flow. These Crittall-inspired doors are also giving bi-folds a run for their money when it comes to exterior entrances too. For more Art Deco styling, combine strong dark colours, such as matt black and the darkest of blues, and combine with highly polished metallics. If your budget is tight, consider upcycling something from a local salvage yard or even an old piece of furniture you no longer love.
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. For more information on her work, head to lesleytaylor.co.uk
Quality made truly affordable
Wood burning stoves, gas & electric fires, fireplace surrounds, range cookers large selection on display
Gorseinon Road, Gorseinon, Swansea, SA4 9GG Tel: 01792 892357 | www.brisco.co.uk
From traditional to sleek and contemporary styles... Over 70 fires & 35 fireplaces on display.
Knowledgable staff, ready to assist you to find the perfect fire for your home
HOUSE & HOME Winter Kids Duvet Set Single, £14, Wilko, Swansea
Textured Green Velvet cushion, £18, Teal Faux Mohair Throw, £25, Grey Sheepskin Cushion, £45, ‘Nordic Nights’ Bedding Set – Double - £35, Debenhams, Swansea
Pine Printed Bedding Set, £29.50 - £59, M&S, Swansea
FESTIVE BEDS
Stag Print Bedding Set, from £35, M&Co, Cardiff
Red Snowflake Print Easy Care Duvet Set Double, £12, George at Asda, Parc Trostre and Llansamlet
Transform your bedroom into a winter wonderland with LAURA DAVIES’ pick of Christmas bedding for all the family laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
Set of 2 Merry Christmas Pillowcases, £12, Brushed Cotton Fitted Sheet, from £17, Next, Morfa Retail Park and Parc Trostre
Bedding from £9 (Single) - £13 (King), Grey Cushion £10, Throws, £20, Garland Lights, £10, Primark, Swansea
Kids Dino Single Bedding Set, £10, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton and Pontarddulais Road Retail Park
SWANSEA LIFE 94
Merry Christmas to all Our Customers Thank You for your continued support A Company built on its reputation & personal service • Wood/Laminate Flooring • Cushion & Hard Vinyl Flooring • Carpets • Natural Flooring - Coir/Sisal • Safety Flooring • Full Floor Preparation • Domestic & Commercial Contracts • Free Measuring & Estimates RECOMMENDED INSTALLERS OF AMTICO FLOORING
Don’t Miss Our January Sale
Technical & professional advice on the best flooring for your home or business SWANSEA’S ONLY NICF MASTER FITTER
Tel: 01792 896523
E: theflooringstudioltd@btconnect.com Visit: www.theflooringstudio.biz Visit our showroom at: 72 High Street, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 4BP
Paul James
Est.1982
UR O Y G IFE BRIN L O T K C A B F F L O ROO D U ER R O F E ED B S O N D E R E H DS! T N A L r e e d n Rei f your roo an ot to cle n e d u r It's
up! nta turns a S e r o f e b
• Window Cleaning • Guttering Cleaning • Patio Cleaning • Driveway Cleaning • Pathway Cleaning • Algae & Moss Removal • Builders Cleans • Let Cleans • Facia Cleaning • Brick & Stone Cleaning
T: 01792 905 858 | M: 07979 205 330 | www.progleam.co.uk | E: danjames@progleam.co.uk
NEW PLACES NEW SPACES
SPACE FITTING FURNITURE HAS EVOLVED NEW DESIGN STUDIO OPENING JANUARY 2019 WWW.SPACES-DESIGN.CO.UK TEL-02920 756840
HOUSE & HOME
all about
COLOUR
Colour blocking is the trend that keeps giving. LAURA DAVIES looks at bright interiors that will be striking whatever the colour combo. laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
Ruben Sofa - Spiced Honey Gold Velvet, Rume.co.uk
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1. Concrete Mini Planter, £12, Iansnow.com
9. Faux Fur Cushion, £16, M&Co, Cardiff
2. Nomu Decanter, £28, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff
10. Pink Faux Fur Rug with Gold Foil Reverse, £50, Riverisland.com
3.Motrik Inspection Lamp in Pink or Yellow, £110, Outthereinteriors.com 4. Cook Up A Colour Storm Tasiemki Hand-Painted Two Door Mango Wood Cabinet, £250, Ian Snow.com 5. Naika Bar Stool, Velvet Upholstered Seat, Forest Green, £129, Cult Furniture.com
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12. Jansen+Co My Mug Jade, £12, Printerandtailor.com 13. La Cafetiere Core Brights Colour Set Of 4 Espresso Mugs, £18, Creativetops.com
6. Upholstered Curve Wall Mirror, £89, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff
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7. Turquoise and Orange Candle Holder, £12 and £10, Riverisland. com
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11. Pink Velvet Office Chair, £149.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach
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8 Pink Flamingo Glassess, £3.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach
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Pop of Colour on Two Armless Mo dules, £1,400, Serious lysofas.co.uk
For the sleep you’ve always dreamed of.... Swansea’s Number One Sleep Destination, let us provide you with the perfect night’s sleep guaranteed or we’ll refund all your money back, in full
WHY NOT COME AND VIEW OUR HUGE RANGE OF BEDS... Most available with immediate delivery
✁ Exclusive to Swansea Life - 100 Night Comfort Guarantee including a full 100% Money Back Guarantee Voucher must presented at time of order
✁
WINTER SALE, PLUS 0% INTEREST FREE CREDIT
NOW AVAILABLE ACROSS THE STORE 8 A4
MORRISTON
SWANSEA CITY CENTRE
01792 771 012
67 A40 RIVER TAWE
LIBERTY STADIUM
DAYS MOTOR GROUP
8 A4
Unit 11, Beaufort Court, Beaufort Rd Plasmarl, Swansea, SA6 8JG
ASDA
WE ARE HERE
A4 06 7
Viewourfullrange&buyfromthecomfortofyourhome
www.dreamtimebeds.co.uk
LOOK FOR SIGN AT THE ROUNDABOUT
German Engineered Kitchen
ÂŁ7,490*
*Complete kitchen including sink, tap, integrated lighting, Neff ovens, hood and hob.
Quality, custom-made kitchens at unbeatable prices, direct from the world’s largest manufacturer. Talk to us today to arrange your free design & home measure.
Queens Arcade, Cardiff T 02920 235562
E showroom@Cardiff.kutchenhaus.co.uk
Huge Selection of Beds and Bedroom Furniture in Store from all Leading Brands
Visit
www.sweetdreams-beds.co.uk for our full range Units 12-16 Tower Court, St Davids Rd, Llansamlet, SA6 8RU (behind Smyths Toys 55-57 New Rd, Skewen, SA10 6EP
Tel: 01792 799213 Tel: 01792 815080
HOUSE & HOME
Give your home a festive feel with LAURA DAVIES’ pick of Christmas -inspired cushions laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
festive
@LawsDx
cushions
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12 13 10 14
1. Novelty Reindeer Cushion, £10, M&S, Swansea | 2. Llama Cushion, £20, Debenhams, Swansea | 3. Christmas Car Cushion, £14, Next, Swansea and Parc Trostre 4. Wonder Cushion, £19.50, Parc Trostre and Swansea | 5. Snowflake Cushion, £12, Matalan, Morriston and Parc Cwmdu | 6. Christmas Tree and Santa Cushion, B, John Lewis, Cardiff 7. Noel Embroidered Red Cushion, £35, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park | 8. Ho Ho Ho Cushion, £29.95, White Stuff, Cardiff | 9. Christmas Tree Cushion, £19, M&Co, Cardiff 10. Merry Christmas Pom Pom Cushion, £12, Next, Morfa Retail Park | 11. Stag Cushion, £6, George Home, Parc Trostre | 12. Three Birds Cushion, £14.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach 13. Constantine Folklore Deer and Tree Cushion, £100, Amara.com | 14. Christmas Sheep Cushion, £25, John Lewis, Cardiff
104 SWANSEA LIFE
Improve your home with Leekes
Home Experts FOR
120 YEARS 1897 – 2017
Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0800 038 3050 | Online: kitchens.leekes.co.uk
Why Choose us? Beautiful Bathrooms
Extensive in store displays of up to 50 bathrooms and 40 kitchens to suit all spaces, styles and budgets Expert advice from our experienced and knowledgeable designers
From a practical family bathroom to a luxurious en-suite, find the right one for you from our wide selection from Leading Brands. Make a design appointment in store and let us help you to create a beautiful new room perfect for your needs.
FREE 3D professional design and planning service using the latest software
†
FREE pre-fit survey with an independent approved installer
Shop with confidence – we won’t be beaten on price on Leading Brands
We are thrilled with our new bathroom, it makes our small bathroom look like a bathroom in a smart 5 star hotel. Mr & Mrs Scott
Home Experts FOR
120 YEARS 1897 – 2017
Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU
Tel: 0800 038 3050 | Online: leekes.co.uk
Terms and conditions apply – ask in store for details.
†
Quality Kitchens Create the perfect space for cooking, dining and entertaining. Our studios showcase a wide range of solid wood, gloss and painted finishes to suit every home. Make an appointment with one of our designers and let them help you with your kitchen project.
COOKING PASSION SINCE 1877
COOKING PASSION SINCE 1877
I would heartily recommend Leekes to future customers. Their standards of customer care both during and after the kitchen installation were really very good. It was a pleasure to do business with them. Mrs Gavey
Book your FREE consultation at kitchens.leekes.co.uk or call 0800 038 3050
Home Experts FOR
120 YEARS 1897 – 2017
Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0800 038 3050 | Online: kitchens.leekes.co.uk
Terms and conditions apply – ask in store for details.
†
HOUSE & HOME
TOP KITCHEN TRENDS FOR 2019 Natural grains, stone and bolder colour choices will all star in kitchens next year. Gabrielle Fagan finds out how to create a cutting-edge theme.
Make it bold, open and interesting... Greys and darker blue shades are still a very popular choice when planning the colour scheme for a more modern-looking kitchen and work brilliantly, especially when combined with a clean, contemporary work surface. That being said, there has been a rise in homeowners wanting a bolder focal point in their design. Choosing to apply a more vibrant colour to their kitchen, whether a brightly coloured island, accessories such as stools or appliances, or painted cabinetry, is a fantastic way to make a statement.
Nespresso by De Longhi Lattissima One EN500.W Coffee Machine, £198, Currys PC World, Morfa Retail Park
Interesting textures are a growing trend and this can be achieved with work surfaces in sandblasted timber, polished concrete, or even with an unpolished natural stone slab.
Open-plan is still by far the most popular choice for lay-out, as people want to blend or extend the kitchen into the main living space, so it's a social area during everyday family use and an entertaining zone when needed. DECOR TIP: Kitchens are the perfect area for experimenting with colour. When deciding on a shade for cabinetry, consider your space first. Bolder, darker colours work particularly well in large, well-lit areas, while vibrant shades for accessories, such as lighting and kitchen gadgets, can be sufficient to lift a more enclosed space.
Aid Artisan Stand Mixer in Majestic Yellow, £499.00, Currys PC World, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park
Arbor kitchen blends simplicity of Shaker style with touches of intricate detail. It can be painted to any colour of choice and starts from £18,000, Harvey Jones. com Viva Collection Pasta And Noodle Maker, £124.99, amazon.co.uk
110 SWANSEA LIFE
£4 55 , Ru me. co.uk
Max out on materials Maximilism no longer excludes the kitchen when redecorating the home, and increasingly people are looking for a kitchen that has impact.
Contrasting materials and bold shades have a strong presence in contemporary kitchen design. A kitchen island is the perfect place to be brave with a colour or finish and to embellish with luxury materials. t, an nd e P Tom Dixon Copper
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We’ll see a trend in kitchens gravitating towards more natural colours, textures and materials, such as bronze, burnt brass and timber. Next year, colours will begin to warm and soften.
Bespoke Portobello kitchen, with Carrara marble waterfall island with copper mirrored splash back and warm oak chevron floor. Deep green hand-painted cabinetry with satin antique lacquered Portobello handles and antique brass tap, from £50,000, Mark Wilkinson Furniture, mwf.com
.c ng
ll C i DECOR TIP: Shimmer and sheen are all lock, rth £44.50, The Fa that’s needed for a luxe look. Metal finishes, such as bronze, steel and copper, are making their mark on everything from furniture and tiles to accessories, and can also soften the look of Le’ Xpress 1.1 Litre Stainless Steel Hammered Copper Finish Coffee Pot, an edgier industrial style space.
£34.99, visit Kitchen Craft for stockists, Kitchencraft.co.uk
Shine a light A lighter colour palette works well in most kitchens, because a variety of surfaces and textures reflect light and brighten it, giving the illusion of more space. A blend of two, three at most, complementary light shades creates a calm and sophisticated space. Our colours, pale green Sage, subtle Old Rose and taupe Driftwood, work well individually or combined. Generally, islands are an essential ingredient in a kitchen because they act as a sociable hub and provide a perfect place for preparation. We can configure ours in a variety of ways, so they can include a sink, hob, an integrated fridge or chopping board
cabinet, or be used purely for storage. Seating's always desirable and, where possible, we'll also include a wine rack, so it's the ideal spot to unwind and relax with friends.
Tolix Style Metal Bar Stool, Rose Gold, £69, Cult Furniture.com
Cloudnola Structure Wood Wall Clock, £67.20, Viva lagoon.com
DECOR TIP: While whitewashed woods are in tune with the enduringly fashionable Scandi style, there's a growing trend for Retro Cross Back showcasing the Dining Chair, Pink, £99.99, Garden grain of different Furniture Centre, woods, which brings gardenfurniture centre.co.uk drama and character to a scheme. Exposed timber can add warmth to a pale scheme, contrast well with smooth surfaces, and is a natural balance for painted cabinetry.
Suffolk Kitchen from £12,000. Cabinets Tulipwood, Plywood, and Oak; Charlecote Kitchen Island, all painted in Driftwood, Neptune.com Suffolk Bi-Fold Larder painted in Old Rose £4,725; Suffolk rectangular table £825, Suffolk dining chair, £235, Neptune.com
Cleo 6-Seater Oak and Matt White Dining Table, currently reduced from £329 to £229, Danetti.com
SWANSEA LIFE 111
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WINDOWS, DOORS
M.P.N & CONSERVATORIES
M.P.N windows, doors, orangeries and conservatories. Established Family Run Welsh Company
Every installation comes with a 10 year insurance backed warranty and FENSA Certificate
Swansea: 01792 359244 | Neath Port Talbot: 01639 607426 | www.mpnwindows.com Email: sales@mpnwindows.com | Open 8am to 9pm 7 days a week
HOUSE & HOME Bud Vase, Cobalt Blue, £13.95, Annabel James.co.uk
Jo Malone London Pine & Eucalyptus Collection, £46-£300, Jo Malone, Cardiff
Mistletoe & Fir Lidded Candle, £12, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre
Sophie Allport Cinnamon And Orange Reed Diffuser, £25, Sophieallport.com
l l e m S it’s beginning to
Christmas Spice Gel Jar Candle, £10, Sainsbury’s, Swansea
a lot like Christmas...
Christmas home fragrance is one of the joys of the season, but which scents should you go for? LAURA DAVIES looks at the different festive fragrances that are guaranteed to fill your home with festive cheer whether it’s a diffuser, candle or a room spray laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
Lily-Flame Merry Christmas Scented Tin Candle, 250g, £9, John Lewis, Cardiff
Elemis Joyful Glow, £27.50, Monks Spa at Machynys, Llanelli
Annabel James Spiced Orange Candle, £16.50, Reed Diffuser, £14.95, Annabeljames.co.uk
Sanctuary Spa Home Comforts, £18, Boots, Swansea
Spiced Apple and Cinnamon Scented Pot-Pourri, £4, Wilko, Swansea and Llanelli
Large Cinnamon Candle, £2.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach
@LawsDx
Baylis & Harding Midnight Fig and Pomegranate Festive Scented Tall Candle Jar with Christmas Tree Lid, £18, Amazon.co.uk
Winter Fruits Scent Candle, £15, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park
Scented Candle with Gold Stag, £7, Morrisons, Parc Pemberton
dle Icy Blue Yankee Can ingerbread G ty os , Spruce, Fr .99-£23.99 Candles, £8 Swansea e, dl Yankee Can
SWANSEA LIFE 114
sale winter
Garngoch, Gorseinon, Swansea, SA4 9WF Tel: 01792 892381
starts 27th december Mwyndy Cross, Llantrisant, Cardiff, CF72 8PN Tel: 01443 222929
www.arthurllewellynjenkins.co.uk
0% interest free credit available
Collections by
& many more
Our price promise Please ask for details FREE DELIVERY for orders of ÂŁ250 or more within 50 miles of store Easy free parking We know quality is very important to our customers so we only work with manufacturers of distinction who are committed to quality and workmanship as we are.
sale winter
Garngoch, Gorseinon, Swansea, SA4 9WF Tel: 01792 892381
starts 27th december
Mwyndy Cross, Llantrisant, Cardiff, CF72 8PN Tel: 01443 222929
www.arthurllewellynjenkins.co.uk
HOUSE & HOME
Footstool, £24.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach
Dulux Colour Futures Colour Of The Year 2019 A Place To Think Livingroom Inspiration Global
Palm Set of 2 Plant Pots Sand and White, £25, Made.com
taste of
honey Stone Masonry Hexagon Tiles, £29.95, Wallsandfloors.co.uk
Dulux Colour of the Year 2019 Spiced Honey
Cult Living Kelby Lounge Chair Velvet Upholstered Mustard, £189, Cultfurniture.com
Sainsbury’s Home Drury Lane Ceramic Prep Bowls, 4pk, £10, Sainsbury’s, Swansea
fach forest Parc F , e s n e omes .99, H , £399 ir a h tC Velve
120 SWANSEA LIFE
Ishino Table by Walter Knoll, (Small) £3805, (Medium) £4255, (Large) £4930 Chaplins.co.uk
Bronte by Moon Herringbone Throw, £89, John Lewis, Cardiff Bloomingville Tassel Edged Cotton Throw, £19, Amara.com
Spiced Honey is the Dulux colour of the Year for 2019. LAURA DAVIES looks at the rich, natural tone that will have everyone talking. laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
na Lu
ed Honey), £300, Chaplin (Spic s.co pan .uk r e V by g Ru
Foiled Base Plant Pot, £6, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff
@LawsDx
Camel Stewart Tartan Cushion, £39.95, Annabeljames.co.uk
Ferm Living Coral Wallpaper Dusty Rose Beige, £74, Cloudberryliving.co.uk
Petit Pompom Mocha Cushion, £45, Artisanti.com
Velvet Cushion, £6, Primark, Swansea and Parc Trostre
Dulux Colour of the Year 2019 Spiced Honey
Croft Collection Herringbone Linen Cushion, £35, John Lewis, Cardiff
SWANSEA LIFE 121
HOUSE & HOME
Christmas Pudding Baubles (3 pack), £2
Iced Metallics Wooden Advent Calendar, £15
Glass Santa Scene Bauble, £4 Merry Christmas Hanging Photo Frame, £2
Frosty Mistletoe Wreath, £12
Glitter Nutcracker, £5
Cone and Berry Mini Tree, £4
Christmas Pudding Plate, £4.50 Tartan Text Merry Xmas Garland, £10
Countdown to Christmas Box, £5
Glittered Stag Room Decoration, £5
Christmas Eve Box, £4
Christmas Pom Pom Holly Hanging Dec, £1.50
Sainsbury’s Home Christmas Winter’s Mist
Santa’s Town Plush Reindeer Countdown, £20
Hanging Prosecco Plaque, £6
Felt Snowflake Runner, £12
Forest Hideaway Advent Calendar, £22.50
Traditional Wreath, £18 Stag and Fawn Objet, £16
122 SWANSEA LIFE
Winter Apple & Spice Lidded Candle, £12.50
Bronze Nutcracker, £15
Lit Rustic Star Wreath, £25
Large Hexagonal Lantern, £35, Small Hexagonal Lantern, £25, Faceted Bauble Lights, £10, 6 Pack Mixed Metallic Glass Baubles, £10
Trapped Glitter Alphabet Bauble, £3
Pom Pom Throw, £69, M&S, Swansea
Christmas Spirit Tumbler, £4.50
Marble & Ash Tree Platter, £29.50
Christmas Llama Bed Set, £29.50
sweep
Give your home an instant Christmas update while doing your food shop with LAURA DAVIES’ pick of festive interiors laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
Wonder Cushion, £19.50
Small Gold Star Light, £10
@LawsDx
Gold Effect Heel Christmas Bauble, £3
Santa Travels Print Easy Care Reversible Duvet Set, £10
White Angel Ornament, £8
Gold Stocking, £5 Grey Penguin Cushion, £6
Gingerbread House Decoration, £8
Santashaped Tea Pot, £8
Tartan Print Dinner Set, 16 Piece, £20
Star Print Wine Glasses Set of 2, £6
SWANSEA LIFE 123
HOUSE & HOME
WOODLAND: Red Fox Christmas Stocking, £10, Debenhams, Swansea SANTA: Santa Present Sack, £14, Next, Morfa Retail Park PERSONALISED: Red The Walpole Christmas Sack, £22, Handmadechristmasco.com
JEWELLED: A by Amara Magenta Trim Bejeweled Stocking, £25, Amara.com
KIDS: Stocking, £4 George Home, Parc Trostre
Stockings
FAIRISLE: Stocking, £18, Debenhams, Swansea
ANIMAL PRINT: Leopard Stocking, £20, River Island, Swansea
LAURA DAVIES rounds up a range of stockings for children and adults, perfect to hang above the fireplace this Christmas, from traditional, personalised to novelty. laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
FIRST XMAS: Hanging Blue Baby’s First Christmas Stocking, £7, The Contemporary Home, Tch.net
Champagne Fern Wreath, £25, Stockings, from £15, John Lewis, Cardiff
POM POM: Pink and Multiple Pom Pom Stocking, £12.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach
KNITTED: Faux Fur Knitted Stocking, £12.99, Very.co.uk
NOVELTY: Llama Christmas Stocking, £18, Marquisanddawe.co.uk
UNICORN: Pink Unicorn Stocking, £6, Primark, Swansea
124 SWANSEA LIFE
SNOWY: Pure White Faux Fur Stocking, £20, John Lewis, Cardiff
: 01685 874599
: 01269 592383
: 01437 764070
: 01239 613413
: 01646 698822
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HOUSE & HOME
Hydrangea aspera
Bringing Christmas to the Garden With Joseph Atkin, Head Gardener at Aberglasney Gardens in Carmarthenshire December and early January in the garden is often over shadowed by Christmas but there are plenty of plants that can bring some festive cheer to our gardens as well as our homes. Many of them are great sources of material for decorations such as wreathes, alternatively they can be potted and placed near the front door.
Cyclamen coum
Gaultheria mucronata ‘Signaal’
There are some plants that just seem to put a smile on people’s faces. Cyclamen is one of those plants and you’ll see the florist’s type in shops throughout the winter. These types are often not hardy whereas Cyclamen coum is. It may be less spectacular but nevertheless has a certain charm and is more than happy outside. We walk around the garden every Christmas morning and not once in seven years has our Cyclamen coum not been in flower. The plants are long lived and stay small throughout their lives making them perfect for a small garden. They also make a lovely gift and are very reasonable. Whether in a pot or in a border they flower on and off for around six months, so the recipient of this Christmas present will be very impressed.
This is the perfect Christmas plant, the combination of rich red stems, berries and dark green ‘holly like’ leaves mean it’s perfect for all sorts of situations. In the garden it makes a good solid shrub that is pleasing all year. The evergreen leaves make a great weed suppressant and the foliage will work well in a summer display. It’s also happy grown in a pot which then means it can be moved during the Christmas period to a more prominent place. If you clip it to shape you can also create a nice feature. If it does manage to snow, the result will be Christmas card perfect. ■ Height = 2m if unclipped ■ Spread = 1m if unclipped ■ Position/Aspect = Sun or half shade ■ Soil = Acidic is best ■ Pest and diseases = No problems in the ground but watch out for vine weevil in pots ■ Style = Mixed border, winter garden, shrub border, informal hedge or potted seasonal display
Helleborus ‘Pink Beauty’ When it comes to a Christmas present for a gardener a Hellebore is a good option, what’s more they are really good garden plants. The summer foliage along with flowers through from Christmas to May are a welcome sight. ‘Pink Beauty’ is an exciting new hybrid that combines the qualities of later flowering Hellebores with the early flowering types. This plant is a real favourite with visitors at Aberglasney and has the bonus of looking good when it’s in bud. It does best at the front of a border or in a potted winter display. We combine it with early spring flowering plants so that you get interest from Christmas to mid spring. There are a few other new hybrids like this one and we’re finding them all to be excellent plants for Christmas interest whilst making worthy additions for the rest of the season. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
126 SWANSEA LIFE
Height = 40cm max Spread = 50cm Position/Aspect = Sun or shade Soil = Any good fertile soil Pest and diseases = No real problems Style = Herbaceous, mixed border, woodland, winter border, potted display or rock garden
■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Height = 20cm max Spread = 30cm max Position/Aspect = Sun or shade Soil = Dry positions are best, we find they do particularly well under conifers Pest and diseases = Vine weevil in pots can be a problem but not in the ground Style = Rock garden, winter garden, winter planters, dry shade border, small spaces or under trees
N IN OW LL O AN PE EL N LI
tr O Ad P E EN & tO Pu bL Ic
IN EXCEss Of OVER 200 LA-Z-BOY sUITEs IN sTOCK sofa’s, Chairs, Corner suites
RRp £3598-£6497 • OPENING OFFER FROM £995 ( 3 seater plus 2 seater)
OpENINg OffERs
La-Z-boy 3 seater and 2 seater £999 Branded Armchair £99 | Branded 2 seater £199 Single divan bed £149 | Double divan bed £199
Hugh selection of designer high street sofas at up to 70% off. We buy the latest over-runs, cancelled orders, re-runs and end of line items from famous UK leading suppliers.
Phillips of Lianelli
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SOFA SOLUTIONS
A484
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2 seater £199 | 3 seater £299 Sofa Solutions, Unit 2A Dura Business Park, Bynea, Llanelli, SA14 9TD (near Phillips of Llanelli Motor Dealers by Short Brothers Homes)
Opening Times: Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm.
01554 756800
IMMEDIATE DELIVERY OR COLLECTION
Living Spaces... Relax & entertain in luxury
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PRICE FREEZE SALE Starts 27th December Go online for further details
DON’T MISS OUT
PRICE FREEZE SALE Starts 27th December Go online for further details
Bespoke designs from Planning to Completion
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Free Planning & building regulation advice Free Quotations with 3D Imaging 36 months Interest Free Credit 10 Year Insurance Warranty
FREEPHONE 0800 808 3224 www.securahome.co.uk Unit C1 Kestrel Way, Garngoch Ind Est, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 9WN
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BRING YOUR S T E P R CA O T K C BA LIFE... • Carpet Cleaning
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HUGE REdUctions Upto 60% oFF
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SERVING SOUTH WALES FOR OVER 50 YEARS YSTRAD ROAD | FFORESTFACH INDUSTRIAL ESTATE SWANSEA | SA5 4LH | TEL 01792 580339
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HOLIDAYS
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
IRELAND’S ANCIENT EAST
GALWAY DELIGHTS
28th Jan 2019 3 LAWLORS HOTEL, DUNGARVAN 3 NIGHTS ONLY £239
4th March 2019 3 FLANERY’S HOTEL, GALWAY 3 NIGHTS ONLY £229
Executive coach travel • Ferry crossings • Dinner, bed and full Irish breakfast • Irish story telling evening • Excursion to Cork • Excursion to Waterford • Entry into Waterford Crystal
Executive coach travel • Ferry crossings • Bed and full Irish breakfast • Tea, coffee and scones on arrival • Evening of music • Connemara scenic drive • Free time in Galway
IRISH CRAIC
ST PATRICKS DAY, WATERFORD
4 NIGHTS | 4 TREACY’S HOTEL, ENNISCORTHY 17th Feb 2019 ONLY £249 24th Mar 2019 ONLY £269
16th Mar 2019 | 3 NIGHTS 3 DOLLEYS HOTEL, WATERFORD
Executive coach travel • Ferry crossings • Porterage • Welcome drink • Tea or coffee after dinner • Live entertainment in the Temple Bar • Free use of the waterfront leisure facilities • Irish coffee and whiskey soda bread demonstration • Quiz and games night • Excursion to Waterford • Excursion to Dublin
ONLY £239 3 TREACY’S HOTEL SPA AND LEISURE CLUB, WATERFORD
ONLY £249 Executive coach travel • Dinner, bed and full Irish breakfast • Ferry crossings • One evening of traditional Irish dinner • Entertainment • St Patricks Day in Waterford • Excursion to Cork • Excursion to Blarney
KILLARNEY - JEWEL OF IRELAND
ST PATRICKS DAY, ENNISCORTHY
17th Feb 2019 3 EVISTON HOUSE HOTEL, KILLARNEY 4 NIGHTS ONLY £329
16th Mar 2019 3 TREACY’S HOTEL ENNISCORTHY 3 NIGHTS ONLY £289
Executive coach travel • Ferry crossings • 3 nights dinner, bed and full Irish breakfast in Killarney • 1 night dinner, bed and ‘grab & go’ breakfast on return • Breakfast on board return ferry • Nightly entertainment • Excursion to the Ring of Kerry • Excursion to Dingle Peninsula
Executive coach travel • Dinner, bed and full Irish breakfast • Ferry crossings • Porterage • Welcome drink • Tea or coffee after dinner • Excursion to Waterford • Excursion to Dublin • Free use of the waterfront leisure facilities
DONEGAL DISCOVERY
DUBLIN MINI BREAK
18th Feb 2019 3 CENTRAL HOTEL DONEGAL 3 NIGHTS ONLY £249
24th Mar, 7th Apr, 24th Apr, 20th Oct, 24th Nov & 8th Dec 2019 3 BONNINGTON HOTEL, DUBLIN 2 NIGHTS ONLY £219
Executive coach travel • Ferry crossings • Dinner, bed and full Irish breakfast • Donegal scenic drive • Entry and mini bus transfer to the Slieve League Cliffs viewpoint • Free time in Donegal
Executive coach travel • Bed and full Irish breakfast • Ferry crossings • Free time in Dublin • Dublin city tour
TITANIC BELFAST & ANTRIM COAST 5 NIGHTS 28th Apr 2019 ONLY £439 16th Jun 2019 ONLY £469 4th Aug 2019 ONLY £539 15th Sep 2019 ONLY £469 Executive coach travel • Irish sea ferry crossings • 1 night bed and breakfast accommodation in County Wicklow area en route • 3 nights dinner, bed and full Irish breakfast accommodation in Wexford / Waterford area • Half day guided tour in Belfast • Entry into Titanic Belfast • Scenic drive along the stunning Antrim Coast • Entry into Giant’s Causeway Visitor Experience • Visit to Downpatrick, burial place of St Patrick • Free time in Dublin
Come and see us in your local travel shop or book online edwardscoaches.co.uk Blackwood Travel Shop 01495 222272
Cardiff Travel Shop 02920 348811
Llansamlet Travel Shop 01792 274444
Llantrisant Travel Shop 01443 202048
Merthyr Tydfil Travel Shop 01685 387877
Neath Travel Shop 01639 250250
Prices are per person and based on two people sharing and include return executive coach travel. Single room supplements apply. Excursions as described in the itinerary.
Swansea Travel Shop 01792 456600
OUT & ABOUT
A N D R E W
M O R G A N ’ S
SWANSEA BAY WALK Join andrew morgan as he leads us on a Swansea Bay walk.
Start/Finish location ......... Bracelet Bay/Langland Bay Distance ..................................... 3 or 6 miles (2-3 hours) Level ............................................. Easy/Moderate Parking ........................................ Bracelet/Langland Bay (charge)
A Boxing Day Stroll A cold winter and a warm fire makes you want to huddle around the TV to watch the Christmas schedules - but you’ll be missing out on the fun of strolling along on a crisp winter’s day with a group of friendly walkers. If you find yourself alone over Christmas, come out and have some fun in the company of friendly walkers. Swansea Ramblers walk all year around so we get to see the countryside as it changes with the seasons and for the last few years, we’ve arranged a Boxing Day walk that provides a great introduction to walking and an alternative to sitting in front of the Christmas TV. For 2-3 hours, you can join us for a ramble along the splendid coastline between Bracelet and Caswell. If you don’t want to do the whole walk, you can meet us at Langland and just do the bit to Caswell and back. If we are lucky, we may see a seal or two but at Langland, there may be hundreds of Walruses – not the furry kind but the hardy Boxing Day swimmers who brave the freezing waters of Langland Bay! The walk will start at 10.15 a.m. from Bracelet Bay. Clive, our leader may vary the route but he’ll probably climb the steps at the side of Fortes’ café that take you up onto the top cliff path with fine views across the bay. Make sure you look back to see the lighthouse. This cliff-top path gradually descends to the lower path which you then follow to Langland. Here
we’ll watch for those brave souls going for their freezing dip in the sea while we wait for any further walkers who will join us by the lifeguard station at 11.15 a.m. We’ll set off again along the coast path, watching for seals and anticipating a hot coffee at Caswell. From there, the return journey starts inland by ascending the path just opposite the Bishops Wood visitor centre. Turning right, the path gently ascends to top of the main road above Caswell. Turn right into Hillgrove and a footpath at the right hand bend goes left then down to the path alongside the golf course. We’ll follow this across the green to join the road back to Langland. Here we say farewell to those who came for the shorter walk then the rest of us will continue along the coast path back to Bracelet. Hopefully, we’ll find another warm watering hole to have a Christmas get together after the walk. If you can’t drag yourself away from the TV or you have Christmas visitors with you that day, check out all the other regular walks we put on and come along when you can. It’ll be a good way to burn off those festive calories and you’ll be very welcome to join us. Transport: Traveline: www.traveline-cymru.info • 0871 200 22 33 or BayTrans: www.baytrans.org.uk/ Visit our website: www.swansearamblers.org.uk
Upcoming Walks DECEMBER 2018 Sat 01 Llanelli’s Lakes and Docks (6 miles) Easy meet 11.00am Llanelli: North Dock Thu 06 Kidwelly (8.5 miles) Moderate meet 9.15am Gowerton: Car Park Sun 09 Graig Fawr (10 miles) Moderate meet 9.30am Pontarddulais: Railway station Mon 10 Marina and SA1 (4 miles) Easy meet 10.00am Outside The Queen’s Hotel: Tue 11 North Gower (7 miles) Easy/Moderate meet 10.00am Cwm Ivy Car Park Sat 15 Mon 17 Wed 19 Sat 22 Sun 23 Wed 26 Wed 26 Sat 29 Sun 30
Bethlehem (6 miles) Moderate meet 9.45am Francis St Neath Canal Resolven (4 miles) Easy Access meet 10.00am Resolven: Car park off A465 Swansea Canal (8 miles) Easy meet 10.00am Clydach: Coed Gwilym Park Llandybie (6 miles) Easy/Moderate meet 11.00am Llandybie Rail Station Car Park Bryn (Maesteg) (10 miles) Moderate meet 9.00am Francis St South Gower Beaches (6 miles) Easy/Moderate meet 10.15am Bracelet Bay South Gower Beaches (3 miles) Easy/Moderate meet 11.15am Langland Bay: Lifeguard Hut Swansea Parks and Beach (6 miles) Moderate meet 11.00am Francis St Gower Sand and Hills (10 miles) Moderate meet 9.30am Penmaen: NT car park
JANUARY 2019 Wed 02 Gorseinon to Swansea (Bring Bus Pass) (8 miles) Moderate meet 10.00am Gorseinon: CP by Lloyds Pharmacy Sat 05
Llangeinor (6 miles) Easy/Moderate meet 11.00am Bridgend: Blackmill: Cattle Market
Sun 06 Pontneddfechan Waterfalls (10 miles) Strenuous meet 8.45am Francis St Tue 08
Llanmadoc Hill (8 miles) Moderate meet 10.00am Cwm Ivy Car Park
Sat 12
Goytre Reservoir (5 miles) Easy/Moderate meet 11.00am Goytre: AFC Car Park
Tue 15
Rhossili (6 miles) Moderate meet 10.30am Rhossili N.T. CP
Tue 15
Clyne Valley by Torch Light (3 miles) Moderate meet 7.00pm Killay: Railway Inn
Sat 19
Oxwich Point (5 miles) Easy/Moderate meet 10.15am Oxwich: Beach Car Park
Sun 20 Ilston Valley (10 miles) Strenuous meet 9.30am Southgate: NT Car Park Mon 21 Fendrod Lake & Stadium (4 miles) Easy meet 10.00am Fendrod Lake car park Wed 23 Swansea Bay (Bring Bus Pass) (7 miles) Easy meet 10.00am Quadrant Outside Costa Sat 26
Craig-Cefn-Parc to Lluast (6 miles) Easy/ Moderate meet 11.00am Clydach: RSPB car park
Tue 29
Cwm Lliedi & St Illtud (7 miles) Moderate meet 9.30am Gowerton car park off B4295
SWANSEA LIFE 135
OUT & ABOUT
IDYLLIC COUNTRY INN, CLOSE TO HISTORIC OXFORD Peter Slee stays at the newly refurbished The Lion in Wendelbury, Oxfordshire
■ THE SETTING The Lion’s location really is idyllic Cotswoldery at its very best. One mile from the M40, twist down narrow lanes to the meandering village of Wendlebury which is almost ridiculously pretty. Candles, open fires, wooden beams and the kind of cosy clutter you associate with such place make for a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. ■ STYLE & CHARACTER Think rural-chic decor! Step through the front door and you”re in a proper, traditional pub where locals drop in for a pint most evenings. It’s a relaxing space with window seats, fireplace and exposed stone walls as well as quirky elements with plenty of up- cycled bits and bobs. The appealingly intimate conservatory restaurant at one end with its wooden tables, stone floors, damask furniture and inventive flourishes is less boutique and more bucolic both in looks and setting. Outside, a flagstone courtyard with attractive gardens, large white parasols and outdoor log fire is perfect for all seasons. An added plus? A great spot for posh-people watching! 136 SWANSEA LIFE
■ SERVICE & FACILITIES Staff under general manager Claire Lenkowiec are mostly local and touchingly enthusiastic. Facilities range from its tucked-away garden area to a welcoming ‘bits&bobs’ box at reception which helpfully includes anything you might have forgotten for your weekend away such as phone chargers. The service during our stay was top notch with staff attentive and keen to help. ■ ROOMS These are new and so have plenty of space perched as they are in a converted Cotswolds barn to one side of the gardens. They are beautifully devised too with Feather & Black beds clad in fine linens, mis-matched chairs and decor in greys and creams. Colour and individual character for each room are added through cushions and individual lighting. Deluxe rooms include a sofa bed. ■ FOOD & DRINK Think Best of British with an emphasis on artisan and free-range Cotswold
ingredients and combinations that skilfully bring out great flavours. Everchanging but appealing meat, game, fish and vegetarian options will entice as will its 40-or-so- strong wine list. A new, enhanced fixed price menu is worth looking at too. Pricing for the food is pleasurably reasonable for a menu of this quality although drinks prices are a little steeper. ■ VALUE FOR MONEY Standard double rooms from around the £90 mark including breakfast and wi-fi. ■ VERDICT What’s not to like? The Lion’s new look was only unveiled last Spring and the result, new interiors and menu hit the mark at all levels. A sensitive update has retained its authentic appeal and the food is a complete treat. The place also already feels ‘lived in’ thanks in no small measure to its knowledgeable staff!
“ A beautiful, sensitively refurbished country pub and restaurant with the Bicester outlet shopping village right on its doorstep and Oxford just a short drive away.”
The Lion, Wendlebury, Oxfordshire, OX25 2PW • thelionwendlebury.co.uk SWANSEA LIFE 137
OUT & ABOUT
walking in the footsteps of rock and roll legends LAURA DAVIES spends a weekend at the former BBC Recording Studio Kensington House, better known now as K West Hotel and Spa in fashionable west London. laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
It’s not everyday that you check into a hotel that has seen the very best of rock and roll royalty stay, play and misbehave in! From the likes of Bob Marley and the Wailers, David Bowie, The Kinks and Roxy Music to name just a few, the K West Hotel and Spa building in west London has seen them all. Formerly the BBC Recording Studio Kensington House in the 70s and 80s, the list of artists who have made an appearance here has been endless, and since becoming a hotel, the venue has continued to strike a chord with musicians, who often stay while playing at nearby music venues O2 Shepherds Bush Empire and the Apollo. When I arrive at the hotel, just a few minutes’ walk from Shepherds Bush Tube Station, a number of American musicians are off-loading instruments off a coach and are checking into the hotel for a few nights, while they play at one of the nearby music venues. My mum and I, who are in London for a weekend of Christmas shopping, are trying to earwig who they may be to no avail. After an easy check in, we looked around the hotel, which is inspired by the rich music heritage and history of the musicians who have stayed here - walking down the corridors is a bit like going down the hall of fame with pictures of famous stars displayed on the walls. Everything is very quirky and cult, with features including upcycled furniture to retro decor. There is a library area which features statement Andy Warhol style artwork depicting Amy Winehouse, a tribute to yet another music legend who loved the hotel, and guests can relax on comfy charcoal grey sofas and armchairs. Against the opposite wall, a large flatscreen TV sits in the centre of floor-toceiling bookshelves, which display an eye-catching collection of 138 SWANSEA LIFE
@LawsDx
coffee table books. The library is also a multifunctional space which is used for screenings, events, pop-ups and a place for guests to chill out. The creative atmosphere, can be completely sealed off from the buzz of the rest of the hotel, with black and silver drapes suspended between a giant wooden frame. Before looking around the rest of the building, we have the pleasure of trying out the hotel’s new Glam Rock Afternoon Tea in the Studio Kitchen. Edgy city landscape sketches stretch along the walls, mirrored by a quirky wave of banquet seating hugging the back of the room. Sprinklings of filament light bulbs suspended on individual wires add an abstract, arty feel. It has very much an urban New York vibe and is informal and the food offered on the menu sounds good and is reasonably priced. Nothing could have prepared me for our afternoon tea - probably the quirkiest I have ever had. Tea is served in bright coloured metallic tea pots and cups, and everything is tastefully mismatched. Our placemats are old vinyl records and our food is served on a small record player. It really has to be seen to be believed. The choice of finger sandwiches we had varied from Crab and Avocado on basil bread to Ham, Brie and Apple served on carrot bread. The selection of sweet treats were inventive, and included everything from Chocolate Shake, Red Velvet Bomb and Prosecco Jelly with Fresh Berries. Absolutely delicious! Our scones that followed were still warm from the oven, crumbly and were gorgeous. All the teas were named after rock and roll legends and the leaves were all in test tubes. I would highly recommend the Glam Rock Afternoon Tea if you are staying here - everything about it was so glamorous and definitely a talking point.
After food, we needed a lie down. I was fit to burst. Our room was immaculate and very spacious with a desk that wound around to a sofa and table and an inviting large bed. The rooms are designed to offer a soothing respite from the fast pace of London life, with luxurious oversized beds and a calming colour scheme. Modern flourishes including LCD flat screen TVs, sandblasted glass, and original artwork give the rooms a distinctive K West stamp. The bathroom features The White Company products which go down a treat with us. We take advantage of the hotel’s close proximity to the Westfield shopping centre, one of the largest retail destinations in Europe with over 450 shops and restaurants - not that we can eat a single thing more. It’s a Friday evening, and the centre is open until 10pm so we take advantage of shopping until we were dropping. When we arrived back to the hotel there was such a fantastic vibe, with live music playing in the bar area, so we popped in for a much needed drink. And what a vibe! Industrial style pendant lamps hang low over raised tables, and textured silver wallpaper give the bar a modern edge. The polished dark walnut-wood flooring brings warmth to the area, which is opened up with the use of floor-to-ceiling mirrored pillars and relaxed seating arrangements. Upcycled furniture is used to create high backed booth seating along the back wall, separated by silver and black voile curtains to create intimate VIP style corners. Chic black and white artwork depicting musicians hangs above each booth, with punchy contrasting accents of colour adding vibrancy. Even the drinks menu has been injected with some Rock ‘N’ Roll swagger, with six signature Bourbon Whiskey Cocktails available, plus the quirky K West special ‘Pickleback’ shot of Jack Daniels whiskey accompanied with a shot of pickle juice. Top DJs play from 10pm until 2am, but you can’t hear anything from your room. Breakfast was served the next morning upstairs in the Studio Kitchen, which we ordered a full English before heading off for a
day shopping. It certainly set us up for the day! It was good quality and faultless. There is also lighter, continental breakfasts served downstairs in the Studio Bar which in the days also provides a light and airy space for creative media meetings over coffees and laptops. Plugs are fitted conveniently by seats; ensuring meetings never run out of charge, and a ‘Geek Hub’ laptop bar with complimentary iMacs for guests to use can be found tucked into a snug area around the corner from the bar. While we didn’t have the chance to sample the hotel’s spa, we had a little peek. Wow! The spa features a twinkling hydrotherapy pool, sanarium, sauna, dry flotation tank, aromatic herbal steam room and the fully equipped K Fit gymnasium. It has also been awarded ‘Best Spa in London’ at the Good Spa Guide Awards 2015 and is the winner of a World Luxury Spa Award. K West’s holistic spa offers a range of exclusive treatments and it introduced the first ‘Snow Paradise’ to London, which mimics the Finnish experience of alternating between freezing and steamy environments. After two wonderful nights, it was time to check out and the staff couldn’t have been more helpful. It may not have been five star ultimate luxury, but it certainly was the most interesting, quirky and hotel with the best atmosphere and vibe. It is a very good and decently priced hotel, convenient and accessible to everything you need during a trip to London. I will definitely be back, I hope you are enticed too!
Prices start from £119 per room per night, and the K Suites are from £540 per night including VAT. Spa packages are also available and include overnight accommodation and treatments.
K West Hotel & Spa, Richmond Way, London W14 0AX | Visit www.k-west.co.uk SWANSEA LIFE 139
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MOTORING
■ WHAT IS IT? Say the words ‘BMW 8 Series’ to any car enthusiast, and you’ll probably get wet shoes as they melt into a puddle, babbling about V12 engines and pop-up headlights. Now, the contemporary 8 Series isn’t quite as instantly iconic or quirky as the original - but it’s an important step for BMW. A car that can challenge ultra-luxury offerings such as the Mercedes S-Class Coupe but in true BMW fashion - by placing driving dynamics and passenger enjoyment rather than comfort at the top of the list of priorities. ■ WHAT’S NEW? The 8 Series is an all-new car, so while it shares plenty with other BMW models, under the skin, the overall package is like nothing else in the range. Initially, it’s exclusively available as a two-door coupe, but BMW will also introduce convertible and four-door ‘Gran Coupe’ variants to the line-up. All will share the same trio of engines, too. It also occupies a new market sector for BMW, sitting between truly focused sports cars such as the Porsche 911 and genuine luxury models such as the S-Class Coupe. Forthcoming four-door models will also rival the Porsche Panamera. ■ WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET? Although there will be a 40d diesel model available, we drove the M850i - a step down from a full-fat M car but still packing a 4.4-litre V8 with 523bhp. It’s paired with an eight-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, and the combination is simply brilliant. Power - as you’d expect from such hefty numbers - is ample, and the 8 Series always feels like it has more to give. The gearbox is silky smooth when you’re just ambling around at low speeds, but put your foot down (and whack it into ‘Sport’ mode) and changes are ferociously quick. That’s backed up by the figures: 0-60mph arrives in 3.5 seconds and top speed is limited to 155mph. Despite being turbocharged, the V8 gives plenty of punch right through the rev range, and in the upper echelons it roars like a tiger - though how much of this is artificially generated, we’re not sure. Regardless, it’s an impressive powertrain and one we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend, despite the obvious cost and economy penalties over the diesel. ■ WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? BMW’s sporting heritage is clear to note as soon as you begin to press on. The 8 Series isn’t a darty, quick sports car like a Porsche 911, but the fluidity of its handling - the ease with which it grips in fast corners and the way it simply gobbles up a twisting road - means it’s incredibly satisfying to drive. 142 SWANSEA LIFE
bmw 8 series
BMW’s brought an iconic name back from the grave with its new 8 Series. Tom Wiltshire tries it out. Two aspects of the 8 Series help it in the corners - four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering. The former is BMW’s well-known xDrive system, which in the 8 Series is rearbiased for greater poise but can push all the power to the front wheels if necessary. The latter works as most systems do, turning the rear wheels in the opposite direction for faster and tighter cornering at slow speeds, or in the same direction for greater motorway stability. It really works too - this feels like a far smaller car than its 4.85-metre length would suggest, although the sensation of the rear shifting by itself does take some getting used to. Meanwhile, ride comfort is a good middle ground between the pillowy softness of an S-Class and the hardened sports suspension of a Porsche 911. ■ HOW DOES IT LOOK? The 8 Series has seriously elegant proportions; a long bonnet and rear deck, flowing lines and a compact passenger cabin. A few styling details don’t sit too happily on this frame, though - the traditional ‘kidney’ grilles look a little too stylised and don’t play totally naturally with the super-slim LED headlights, while the rear’s complex interplay of surfacing, shutlines and aerodynamic controls is a little messy from some angles. Yet the overall shape and a few features, such as the double-bubble roof, are just wonderful. It’s worth mentioning the car is extremely spec-dependent, too. The vehicles we drove were all covered in black detailing on the window line and front grille as well as having black alloys. Models that feature chrome detailing look totally different - less sporting and a little classier. ■ WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE? Inside, it’s classic BMW, which is a good and a bad thing. The driver-focused cabin is simplicity itself to use - all the controls are
well situated and the iDrive infotainment system is one of the best in the business. There are some intricate touches just for the 8 Series as well, such as a cut-glass gear knob and infotainment selector. The driving position is also perfect, and infinitely adjustable. If we’re being critical, though, there’s little of the ‘wow’ factor that you get with some rivals. This cabin would be equally at home in a 5 or even 3 Series, and we’d quite like a little more than just a shiny gear selector to mark it out as the brand’s flagship. In practicality terms, a big coupe has never been the most spacious of things - but we’d have liked a little more legroom in the rear of the 8 Series. Thankfully, the forthcoming Gran Coupe should solve that and bring an extra pair of doors into the equation, too. ■ WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE? As expected for a car costing well over £70,000 (almost £100,000 in 850i form), there’s a good level of spec on offer. Clearly, climate control, cruise control, electric seats, adaptive LED headlights, a whole suite of safety aids and a wireless charging pad all come as standard, but the options list has a few things to offer. We’re big fans of the M-striped seatbelts, front seat ventilation and soft-close doors, and it’s also possible to option an exterior carbon-fibre package for an even racier look. ■ VERDICT The 8 Series is a seriously impressive coupe and one that shows BMW’s ability to blend the luxurious with the sporting is still alive and well. It doesn’t feel quite as special as some rivals, however - a Porsche 911 is still far better to drive, while a Mercedes S-Class Coupe trumps it on luxury. So the appeal of the 8 Series will depend on whether you see it as the best of both worlds or an uncomfortable middle ground. We’re leaning towards the former.
FACTS AT A GLANCE
Model as tested: BMW 8 Series M850i xDrive Coupe ■ Price: £100,045 ■ Engine: 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 ■ Power: 523bhp ■ Torque: 750Nm ■ Max speed: 155mph ■ 0-60mph: 3.5 seconds ■ Fuel economy: 29mpg ■ Emissions: 224g/km ■ Rivals (3): Bentley Continental GT, Porsche 911, Mercedes S-Class Coupe
The new Touareg. With £3,000 towards your finance deposit. Available with Solutions PCP.* The new Touareg’s leap forward in styling is complemented by impressive specification, new technology and ground-breaking levels of digital dashboard design. You can customise the 15-inch Innovision glass display like a smartphone to project information such as speed, directions and driver assistance messages onto the windscreen. An SUV with real power and strength, Volkswagen’s latest Touareg also offers true off-road capabilities. Available to test drive in our showroom today.
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We are brokers and not lenders and can introduce you to a limited number of lenders, who may pay us for introducing you to them. *At the end of the agreement there are three options: i) pay the optional final payment and own the vehicle; ii) return the vehicle: subject to excess mileage and fair wear and tear, charges may apply; or iii) replace: part exchange the vehicle. With Solutions Personal Contract Plan. 18s+. Subject to availability and status. T&Cs apply. Offer available until March 31st, 2019. Indemnities may be required. Offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Accurate at time of publication. Freepost Volkswagen Financial Services. This vehicle is a WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure) type approved
vehicle. More information is available at www.volkswagen.co.uk/owners/wltp. However, in line with Government guidance, to facilitate comparison between different models from different manufacturers and to accommodate the full transition to this new testing regime, we have displayed NEDC figures. These NEDC figures are the values for this vehicle used in registration and taxation documentation until further notice from the UK authorities. These NEDC figures have been derived from WLTP testing, and may not be equivalent to NEDC figures from NEDC testing, so comparisons may be unreliable. Fuel consumption and efficiency figures are provided for comparative purposes only and may not reflect ‘real world’ driving results. Choice of wheels and other options may affect fuel consumption and emissions data. Official fuel consumption figures for the new Touareg model range in mpg (litres/100km): urban 36.7(7.7); extra urban 47.9(5.9); combined 42.8(6.6). Combined CO2 emissions 173g/km. Excludes battery, electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
http://dc3-otxapp-07:8280/MMWSI/MMWSI?action=GetAssetData&user=SandraEvans&service=Drag_To_Application&db= WHAT’S ON 2Vzc2lvbmlkIjoicUFXUkx6MzZzQks0Vkh6alhyRTZnc3AxLmRjMS1vdHhzcmNoLXUwMV9VQVRfOTM4MCIsImFwcG sInByb3BlcnRpZXMiOnsiaGl0bGlzdE5hbWUiOiJTRUFSQ0hfUkVTVUxUU181MCIsInNlbGVjdGlvbiI6WyJUUk1STU1H HJhUGFyYW1zIjp7fSwic291cmNlS2V5IjoiVFJNUk1NR0xQSUNUMDAwMTYyNDM5NjYwIn0%3D Got something to tell us about, for inclusion in the What’s On section? Please contact Laura Davies... laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
THIS DECEMBER...
01792 545523 @LawsDX
SUNDAY
MONDAY
Santa’s Magical Steam Trains,
Into the Wild Animal Encounters
Father Christmas Needs A Wee
Gwili Railway, Bronwydd Arms Station, Carmarthen, from 10am
Plantasia, Parc Tawe, 10.30am - 4pm
Swansea Grand Theatre, 10.30am & 1.30pm
SATURDAY
1
3
2
TUESDAY
FRIDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
Matilda
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
You Win Again (Bee Gees)
Pontarddulais and Hendy Christmas Parade
Wales Millennium Centre, 7.30pm (until January 12)
Dylan Thomas Theatre, Swansea
Swansea Grand Theatre, 7.30pm
from 6pm Hendy to Pontarddulais
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
Frozen’ Storytime and Breakfast
Swansea Vintage and Artisan Fair
Family Friendly Elf (and Pizza)
Aladdin, The Lyric Theatre
Stradey Park Hotel, Llanelli
National Waterfront Museum, Swansea, 10am
Cinema & Co, Swansea, 4.45pm
Carmarthen, 10am until December 16
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
G4 Christmas by Candlelight
Supper with Santa
Brangwyn Hall, Swansea, 7.30pm
Gower Heritage Centre, 2.30pm
5
4 SATURDAY
8
7
9 10 11
12 13
144 SWANSEA LIFE
6
FRIDAY
14
Cinderella Pantomime, (until January 14) Swansea Grand Theatre, Swansea, 7pm, then various times
=jSuite&r=1537278295526&id=TRMRMMGLPICT000162439660&j=eyJzcmNwYW5lbGlkIjo1MCwic G5hbWUiOiJDSFAiLCJzb3VyY2UiOiJoaXRsaXN0IiwidHlwZSI6ImFzc2V0IiwiYWN0aW9uIjoibGluayIHTFBJQ1QwMDAxNjI0Mzk2NjAiXSwibWV0YUtleSI6ZmFsc2UsInNoaWZ0S2V5IjpmYWxzZX0sImV4dSATURDAY
15
Connie: Christmas is Orff Wales Millennium Centre, 9pm
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
Tea Time with Santa
A classic Christmas with Richard and Adam
The Margam Deer, Port Talbot, 4pm
Brangwyn Hall , Swansea, 6.30pm
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
Santa Feeds the Deer
A Candlelit Christmas
Margam Country Park, 11am
Brangwyn Hall, Swansea, 7.30pm
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
Walrus Dip
Swan Lake
Christmas Holiday Fun
Walrus Dip, Cefn Sidan Beach, Pembrey Country Park, 10.45am
St David’s Hall, Cardiff, until December 29, 5.30pm
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
Swansea Christmas Market
Santa’s Grotto
Taith Hudolus y Nadolig / Magical Christmas Journey
Oxford Street, Swansea, 9.30am - 5.30 pm
Portland Street, Swansea city centre, 11am - 5pm
Pembrey Country Park, 10am-4pm
16 17 18 19 20 FRIDAY
22 23
21
Prosecco Festival (Christmas Special) Brangwyn Hall, from 6.30pm
MONDAY
TUESDAY
24 25 26 27 28 Christmas Eve Carriage Rides Parc Howard · Llanelli, 12pm
Merryas Christm
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
Christmas Parties at the Pier
Cinderella
Mumbles Pier, 7pm
St David’s Hall, Cardiff, until December 31, 2pm and 5pm
29 30
WWT Llanelli, 9.30am
MONDAY
31 NYE 10 Miler
Llandeilo, 10am
SWANSEA LIFE 145
GIVE THE GIFT OF ENTERTAINMENT THIS CHRISTMAS... Tickets are now available for the following shows at the GWYN HALL in 2019
Friday 4th - Sunday 13th January Jack & The Beanstalk Saturday 26th January
George Galloway & Friends
Saturday 2nd February
One Night of Elvis
Thursday 28th February
Jason Donovan
Friday 8th March
Islands in the Stream
Friday 15th March
Jethro
Saturday 23rd March
Walk Like A Man
Thursday 28th March
The Fureys
Saturday 30th March
Rod Woodward Comedian
Tuesday 2nd April
Russell Watson
Saturday 13th April
The Bowie Experience
Monday 15th April
Pongo’s Party Childrens Show
Thursday 25th April
Forbidden Nights
Saturday 4th May
Showaddywaddy
Wednesday 15th May
The Witching Hours - Victorian Theatre with Bite!
Friday 21st June
Chicago Blues Brothers
Tuesday 25th June
The Rhythm of Dance 20th Anniversary Tour
Orchard Street | Neath | SA11 1DU | Tel: 0300 365 6677 | www.gwynhall.com
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WHAT’S ON
It’s panto time...oh yes it is! ALEX EVANS and LAURA DAVIES gets into the pantomime spirit by rounding up some of the top pantos in the area laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
Aladdin Take a magic carpet ride this Christmas and join Jermin Productions on their most magical adventure yet. The family theatre group Jermin productions are bringing back their panto for another year with their touring performance of Aladdin. This year the panto will be flying across the M4 corridor and stopping off at The Princess Royal Theatre in Port Talbot, The Lyric Theatre Carmarthen and The Ffwrnes Theatre Llanelli. The Jermin Productions panto company, which is run by stagey siblings Mark and Nia Jermin, is now in its sixth year. The strength of their production lies in their distinctive script that perfectly blend child friendly humour with hilarious innuendos. Nia Jermin, co-director of Jermin Productions says: “There’s nothing more exciting than live theatre. Panto doesn’t happen anywhere else in the world, it’s a proper British tradition. “It’s true escapism and a brilliant way to spend time with the family. It doesn’t matter if you’re three or 93, you can all be completely immersed in a wonderfully crazy, wacky and funny world for a few hours.” Jumping aboard the high-flying carpet ride as the hero Aladdin will be West End performer Gareth Evans as he dashes around a whole new world in search for his Princess, the beautiful Jasmine played by the equally beautiful Elin Pavli Hinde whose credits include S4C. With the help of his wacky and hilarious brothers J J (Adam Byard from BBC’s Casualty and feature film Hunky Dory) and Junior J, and their outrageous mother Widow Twankey (Marc Skone from Pobol Y Cwm), Aladdin stumbles across a mysterious cave that lures them in with the promise of riches and gold. Will Aladdin rub the lamp and make all his wishes to come true with the help of Slave of the Ring (Kayleigh Marie Morgan)? Or will the evil Abanazar (Ben Hamer) trick 148 SWANSEA LIFE
s will take Performance place at: yal Theatre The Princess Ro Port Talbot - December 8, be Novem r 30 tre Carmarthen The Lyric Thea ecember 16 D December 11 eatre Llanelli The Ffwrnes Th ecember 24 -D December 19 g include mornin *Performances ll we as s screening and afternoon line for on k ec Ch s. as evening show ecial shows details of any sp
him into a life as a prisoner?! Only you can find out with a visit to watch Aladdin this December: the jam packed soaring adventure filled pantomime. This year there will be special performances in Welsh and British Sign language as well as relaxed performances for audience members with autism or learning difficulties to make this year’s panto the most accessible it’s ever been. There is even an over 18’s performance, an after dark adaptation of the original and not for the fainthearted! You’d be a genie-us not to miss it!”
Sleeping Beauty Where: Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl When: December 14 - January 6 This year the Grand Pavilion s puts on the classic panto, Sleeping Beauty which guarantees to be the perfect family panto with spectacular sets and costumes, fabulous songs and dances and bags of slapstick fun. Vern Griffiths will play Dame Dolly Dumpling with Kyle Tovey as the hilarious Happy Harri, comedian Cerys Nelmes as Fairy Marina, Laura Mansell as the wicked Carabosse, Aled Herbert as King Frogmore, Trixie Waggott as Princess Rose and Jack Malin as Prince.
Cinderella WHERE: The Grand Theatre Swansea WHEN: December 14 - January 13 Prepare to be enchanted by one of our all time panto classics - Cinderella.. The Grand’s entry to the Panto game this year is a performance of Cinderella starring Ian H Watkins of Steps fame, Kevin Johns and Ceri Dupree. Qdos Entertainment Managing Director Michael Harrison said: “We are all absolutely thrilled that H will be joining us this Christmas at the beautiful Swansea Grand. Not only is he a terrific singer and dancer, but he is an absolute natural at panto, bringing all the fun and local laughs we know the Grand audiences come to expect each year. We have plenty more casting and surprises to come and we can’t wait to bring the magic of another spectacular pantomime to the city.” Packed with all of the traditional pantomime ingredients audiences expect, Cinderella
features laugh out loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses. Join Cinders as she goes from rags to riches, outwits her very ugly sisters and meets her dashing Prince Charming.
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK WHERE: Ffwrnes, Llanelli WHEN: January 10 - January 27 The Friendship Theatre Group are into their 26th year of pantomimes in Llanelli and it’s going to be a giant with Jack and the Beanstalk. Normally the Friendship
Group put on a magical performance filled with comedy and fantastic costumes and this year promises to be no different. Starring Llanelli local Denny Twp and panto regular Sean Davies the cast this year is stronger than ever making this one performance not to miss.
Jack and the Beanstalk Where: Gwyn Hall, Neath When: January 4 - January 13 If you want to see Jack and the Beanstalk and can't make it to Llanelli then don’t fear because the Gwyn Hall in Neath have you covered. This year's panto promises to bring the New Year’s season to life with stunning sets and costumes, first-rate musicians and actors, witty storytelling and lavish spectacle.
Beauty and the Beast Where: Pontardawe Arts Centre When: December 14 - December 23
beauty and the beast Where: New Theatre, Cardiff When: December 8 - January13 What’s it all about? Dreaming of a happier life, Belle finds herself transported to a cursed castle and held captive by a hideous beast. This year’s run stars Lisa Riley, Gareth Thomas, Ben Richards, Mike Doyle, Danny Bayne and Stephanie Webber and is packed with all of the ingredients Cardiff panto-goers have come to expect. So lots of laughter, stunning costumes and sets.
It’s an Act present the spectacular pantomime Beauty and the Beast. It features a new action-packed script full of excitement and laughter, spectacular costumes, as well as fun and frivolity for all the family. This magical tale tells the story of the beautiful Belle and a Prince who is turned by an Enchantress into a Beast until he can learn to love and be loved. This is a love story like no other. Can Belle soften the heart of the Beast before the last rose petal falls? Or, is he destined to live in his castle locked away in that grizzly guise? SWANSEA LIFE 149
2018 r e 30th November - 31st Decemb PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:
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At Penyrheol Theatre Swansea To book Tickets visit: www.ticketsource.co.uk/up-next-south-wales upnextsouthwales @upnextsouthwales
WHAT’S ON
“I do love playing an Ugly Sister!” LAURA DAVIES talks to KEVIN JOHNS about his love for panto and celebrating his 20th consecutive year at Swansea Grand Theatre laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
P
anto just wouldn’t be panto without Swansea’s very own Kevin Johns. And this year marks his 20th consecutive year starring in Swansea Grand Theatre’s pantomime - everybody’s all-time family favourite, Cinderella.
But Kev, who is known for playing the flamboyant dame, wouldn’t have it any other way as he gets ready to glam it up and take on the role of the Ugly Sister alongside the glamorous Ceri Dupree, who also hails from the city. “It will be my 20th in a row and my 21st Grand Panto in total, “ says Kev. “Cinderella is one of Pantoland’s most popular shows and I do love playing an Ugly Sister! It really is a show for all the family and famed for that magical transformation of Cinders into her ballgown.” One of Wales’ most prolific performers, Kev’s career has spanned musical theatre, stand-up comedy, presenting and of course pantomime. Famous for his huge charisma, Kev has entertained thousands of audience members every Christmas with his trademark comedy, outrageous costumes and quick wit.
@LawsDx
From Shakespeare to Songs of Praise, Kev has appeared in numerous theatrical productions, television programmes and radio shows as well as being a newspaper columnist, author, fundraiser and recipient of the MBE from Her Majesty the Queen. Kev says: “I’m delighted to be back at the Grand especially after the production of Aladdin that Qdos produced for the Grand last year, which was a fantastic show!” Produced once again by Qdos Entertainment, the world’s biggest pantomime producer, audiences will join Cinders as she goes from rags to riches, outwits her horrible sisters and meets her dashing Prince Charming – if it all goes to plan! Cinderella will be packed full of the usual seasonal magic, glittering costumes and festive fun and frivolity that audiences have come to expect from Swansea Grand Theatre pantomimes. This year, sparkling ‘Steps’ star and actor, Wales’ own Ian ‘H’ Watkins, stars as Dandini, servant to Prince Charming. Adding more festive fun to the magical mix are Britain’s Got Talent star, Paul Burling as Buttons, Jalisa Andrews as the fairy godmother and the belle of the ball, Cinderella, is Welsh musical actor, Holly Bluett. The clock is ticking, so make sure you book your tickets today.
Cinderella runs at Swansea Grand Theatre from Friday, December 14– Sunday, January 13, 2019 152 SWANSEA LIFE
christmas and new year highlights... MATILDA: THE MUSICAL WHERE: Wales Millennium Centre WHEN: December 4 – January 12 Roald Dahl’s much-loved story bursts into life on stage. The book, which turned 30 this year, follows Matilda, an extraordinary girl with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, whose talents are constantly belittled by her cruel parents and headmistress. Dreaming of a better life for herself, she dares to take a stand against these oppressive forces and takes her destiny into her own hands.Seen by over eight million people and the winner of over 85 international awards, Matilda The Musical is the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company with original songs by Tim Minchin.
JERSEY BOYS: The Story of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons WHERE: Wales Millennium Centre WHEN: January 16-26 The West End phenomenon Jersey Boys returns to Cardiff for 10 nights This smash hit musical has won 55 major awards worldwide, including the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. Jersey Boys tells the true story of four boys from the wrong side of the tracks who wrote their own songs, invented their own unique sound and sold 175 million records worldwide. Featuring hit after legendary hit including Beggin’, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Oh What a Night, Sherry, Walk Like a Man, Bye Bye Baby and Big Girls Don’t Cry. Jersey Boys is a story full of heart, humour and “sheer musical razzmatazz.”
DIRTY DANCING WHERE: Swansea Grand Theatre WHEN: February 18 - February 23 Dirty Dancing is back! Seen by millions across the globe this worldwide smash hit tells the classic story of Baby and Johnny, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds, who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives. Featuring 35 hit songs, including Hungry Eyes, Hey Baby, Do You Love Me? and the heart stopping (I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life.
ONE FOR THE KIDS: Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom WHERE: Swansea Grand Theatre WHEN: February 6-7
Somewhere, hidden amongst the thorny brambles is a little kingdom where everyone is very very small… From the makers of Peppa Pig comes this BAFTA award-winning television animation live on stage! Holly is a young Fairy Princess, who is still learning how to fly and her magic doesn’t always go quite according to plan. Her best friend, Ben the Elf, doesn’t have wings and he doesn’t do magic, but he runs very fast and flies on the back of Gaston the Ladybird. They live in the Little Kingdom, a tiny land where flowers and grass rise high above them and every day is an adventure. Join Ben and Holly, and their friends on this exciting, enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter. This beautiful story of elves, princesses and childhood innocence will delight all the family!
THE BAND:
WHERE: Swansea Grand Theatre WHEN: January 29 - February 2 Written by Olivier Award winning writer Tim Firth and featuring the musical of Take That, The Band is the story for anyone who grew up with a boyband. It’s 1993 and for five 16 year old girls, the band is everything. Join us as this group of girls who were once inseparable, reunite after 25 years apart and try once more to fulfil their dream of meeting the boyband whose music became the soundtrack to their lives. Songs include Never Forget, Back for Good, A Million Love Songs, Greatest Day, The Flood, Relight My Fire, Shine and Rule the World and stars Five to Five, the winners from BBC’s Let It Shine. SWANSEA LIFE 153
WHAT’S ON
SPONSORED
Gower Gallery Gower Gallery proud to showcase work of acclaimed Mumbles artist Valerie Ganz
Gower Gallery is excited to mark its first Christmas in its new location in the heart of Mumbles with an exhibition of the work of the late Valerie Ganz. The gallery, which has moved from its previous location at the top of Newton Road to 530 Mumbles Road, has continued to grow since artist Ronald Banning handed it over to his daughter Arwen Banning five years ago.
a pillar of cultural life in Wales since her subterranean adventure in coal mining brought her to the public attention in the 1980s. As it turned out these were to be the last images of mining in the Welsh valleys before the industry collapsed. For the sake of the nation’s heritage, the people of Wales were very lucky that Valerie was not afraid to descend down into the earth with these men and produce the drawings
Valerie Ganz, who grew up in Mumbles, has left a legacy of remaining original work and images to be reproduced for prints. Some of her originals and the complete portfolio of her prints have been released to Gower Gallery as part of an ongoing relationship with the Ganz family. “This is a real thrill for us,” says Arwen, an artist in her own right. “Valerie has a very special place in the history of Welsh art and having missed out on meeting her in person it is wonderful to talk to her daughter, Lisa Ganz, about her mother’s work and her fascinating life. “I know that Valerie was a great support to other artists during her lifetime and is highly praised by her peers not only as an artist, but as a friend. This is an artist who is studied in schools in Wales as part of the National Curriculum. I wish I had met her.” Pillar of Welsh cultural life Her passing in 2015 deprived the Welsh art world of one of its stars. She had been
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and paintings which were to form the bedrock of her artistic reputation. Valerie’s strength of character and determination in her choice of subject throughout her career cannot be underestimated. Her bid to join miners at the coal face meant working in dark cramped spaces, deep underground and would have been an intimidating prospect for anyone. She entered into an alien world that was totally male. But instead of being
intimidated, she was inspired. Valerie won her place in the hearts of the colliers in a show of solidarity and artistic passion which delivered to the public a world hitherto known only to the miners themselves. International career Valerie’s long career was wide in scope and international in nature. Valerie crossed the globe in pursuit of subject matter. Gauchos in Argentina, the Great Wall of China: she travelled to New Orleans to paint the musicians in their famous jazz clubs. The oil platforms of Buenos Aires, which she visited regularly, was another adventure into the hidden lives of working men. Whilst Valerie’s work took her around the world she always returned to Wales. She was fascinated by people, even venturing into Swansea Prison to study its inmates with compassion and empathy. Her exploration of the city’s infamous Wind Street, with its clubs and bars, is testament to her energy and will to present a picture of all aspects of humanity. All this when she was well into her 70s. Growing up in Mumbles, it is fitting that Valerie’s work has returned there and Gower Gallery is grateful to her family for allowing it to have a part in her history. The exhibition will run until spring 2019, with other works by Valerie Ganz to follow.
Gower Gallery Everything Arty in Mumbles
Gower Gallery is a contemporary art gallery in the heart of Mumbles less than a hundred metres from the waterfront opposite the Oyster Wharf Development and licking distance from Joe’s ice-cream parlour. And it’s not just art, we have a wealth of locally made arty gifts, sculpture, jewellery, ceramics, glass, ornaments and greetings cards all chosen because of their artistic appeal and the fact that we love them. We take great pleasure and satisfaction in finding new work to bring to your attention. Always worth a trip come and visit Gower Gallery soon.
The King Arthur Hotel Higher Green, Reynoldston Swansea. SA3 1AD Tel: 01792 390775 Email: info@kingarthurhotel.co.uk
GALLERY
Gower Gallery | 530 Mumbles Road | Mumbles | Swansea SA3 4DH www.gowergallery.co.uk | 01792 368669 SWANSEA LIFE 155
SOCIAL DIARY • Beaujolais Day
Beaujolais Day WHere: Brangwyn Hall Tell Me More: Beaujolais-goers enjoyed the day with a meal and entertainment by former Pop Idol finalist, Gareth Gates, as well as a number of local musicians and singers. Pictures: Hoosh Arabi
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SOCIAL DIARY • HOWELLS LEGAL Beaujolais Day
HOWELLS LEGAL Beaujolais Day WHat: Old Havana, Swansea Tell Me More: Howells Solicitors and guests raised £1,000.00 for Singleton Breast Care Unit and the Alzheimer’s Society on Beaujolais Day at Old Havana in Swansea. Pictures: Left page: Adrian White, www.adrianwhitephotography.co.uk Right Page: Howells Solicitors
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SOCIAL DIARY • Motokiki Launch
Motokiki Launch WHERE: Motokiki HQ, Port Talbot Tell Me More: The official launch of the UK’s impartial tyre comparison site Motokiki.com. The Port Talbot-based business is the UK’s first independent vehicle tyre comparison site, co-founded by former managing director of Confused.com Debra Williams. Pictures: Jonathan Myers
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SOCIAL DIARY • LADIES LUNCH
LADIES LUNCH WHere: Morgan’s Hotel Tell Me More: Women attended Ladies Lunch Beaujolais Saturday to raise money for the Maggie’s Centre in Swansea. Pictures: Adrian White, www.adrianwhitephotography.co.uk
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SOCIAL DIARY • Welsh National Wedding Awards
Welsh National Wedding Awards WHERE: Brangwyn Hall, Swansea Tell Me More: JR Events held its annual Welsh National Wedding Awards with a Greatest Showman theme. The awards recognise all those in the wedding industry, the work, passion and commitment to ensuring a a couple’s big day is perfect. Pictures: Hoosh Arabi
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SOCIAL DIARY • Benny at 70
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Benny at 70 Where: Morgans Hotel, Swansea Tell Me More: Former team mates JPR Williams and Tommy David were on hand to help Welsh rugby legend Phil Bennett, the former Llanelli, Wales and British and Irish Lions captain, celebrate his 70th birthday at a sell-out lunch hosted by Phil Steele and organised by The Events Room.Pictures: Riley Sports Photography
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CHWARAEON ABERTAWE
Prifysgol Abertawe
SPORT SWANSEA
Swansea University
SUPPORT A SCHOLAR
CEFNOGWCH YSGOLOR
Spend the evening with a plethora of Wales’ finest Sporting Personalities, past and present. Dine with The Swans, The Ospreys, The Scarlets and more…
Swansea University ‘Serious About Sport’ Annual Fundraising Dinner The evening of Wednesday 20 February 2019 at the Great Hall, Bay Campus
Cinio Codi Arian Blynyddol ‘O Ddifrif Am Chwaraeon’ Prifysgol Abertawe Dydd Mercher 20 Chwefror 2019 yn Y Neuadd Fawr, Campws y Bae
For the very first time, Swansea University plays host to a Sports Gala Fundraiser. With a new vision and goals set to take Swansea University into a new era of high performance sport, we ask your business for support in attending our Sports Gala evening. Contact Rhian Walters, Swansea University, on r.a.walters@swansea.ac.uk or 01792 513627 to secure your place.
Cyfle i dreulio’r noson gyda llu o Sêr Chwaraeon gorau Cymru o’r presennol a’r gorffennol a chael cinio gyda’r Elyrch, y Gweilch, y Sgarlets a mwy… Am y tro cyntaf erioed, mae Prifysgol Abertawe’n cynnal Cinio Chwaraeon Mawreddog i godi arian. Gyda gweledigaeth a nodau newydd i fynd â Phrifysgol Abertawe i oes newydd o chwaraeon perfformiad uchel, rydym yn gofyn i’ch busnes ein cefnogi drwy ddod i’n Noson Chwaraeon Fawreddog. Cysylltwch â Rhian Walters, Prifysgol Abertawe yn r.a.walters@abertawe.ac.uk neu ar 01792 513627 i archebu lle.
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SWA NSE A
LIFE Gift Guide LAURA DAVIES rounds up last minute gift inspiration for all the family! laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
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TIME FOR YOU L’Occitane Cherry Blossom Bauble, £12, Debenhams, Swansea
Prosecco Princess Cosmetic Bag, £12, Next, Parc Trostre
Manicure Set, £14, Debenhams, Swansea
Gold Bee Stud Earrings, £18, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff
GIFT GUIDE
Pom Pom Necklace, £9.99, TK Maxx, Morfa Retail Park
Love Faux Fur Hot Water Bottle, £24, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff
Gifts for Her
George Fitness Watch, £20, George at Asda, Parc Trostre
Seasonal Single Wick Candle, £20, Cath Kidston, Cardif
Sterling Silver & Pearl Snowman Charm, £110, Links of London, Cardiff
tbreaker ion Hear 8 Collect Asos.com 01 2 ay , Holid lette, £35 Blush Pa
Handled Large Wash Bag, £20, Sainsbury’s, Swansea
LAURA DAVIES picks out last minute gifts for women for under £40 laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
Alpacas Lip Balm Set, £13, Cath Kidston, Cardiff
@LawsDx
Gibsons Krispy Kreme Jigsaw Puzzle, 500 Pieces, £15, John Lewis, Cardiff
Necklace, £18, River Island, Swansea
Green People Daily Essentials Starter Pack, £17, Greenpeople.co.uk Reversible Sequin Slippers, £16, Accessorize, Swansea
Monogram Gin Glass, £6, Next, Morfa Retail Park
Winter Cocktails, £10, Hotel Chocolat, Cardiff
Dune London Kollie, £18, Dune, Cardiff
Fever-Tree Ultimate Gin & Tonic Selection, 500ml, £35, John Lewis, Cardiff
Gloves, £19.50, M&S, Swansea
Dune London Kollie, £18, Dune, Cardiff Sanctuary Spa Ultimate Travel Selection, £18, Boots, Parc Fforestfach and Swansea
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Clinique Pop Sampler Makeup Gift Set, £22.50, Boots and Debenhams, Swansea
Brown Check Boxy Fit Tee, £20, River Island, Swansea
Brown Harris Tweed Manicure Set, £20, Next, Swansea and Parc Trostre
Brown Check Boxy Fit Tee, £20, River Island, Swansea
Amazon Fire TV Stick with Alexa, £39.95, Argos, Swansea and Pontarddulais Road Retail Park Ashby & Brant Hat and Hip Flask Set, £28, Next, Morfa Retail Park
Arm band Phone Holder, £8, Sainbury’s, Swansea
GIFT GUIDE
Chocolate Golf Balls, £4.50, White Stuff, Cardiff
Bike Boxer Gift Set (2 pack), £19.95, White Stuff, Cardiff
Le Bicycle Shaving Stand Set, £14.95, Rexlondon.com
Gifts for Him
Nextbase Dash Cam 112, 720p HD, £39, John Lewis, Cardiff
Check Blue and White Pyjama Bottom, £16, M&Co, Cardiff
LAURA DAVIES looks at gifts for him - all under £40 laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
M&S Collection Leather Gloves, £39.50, M&S, Parc Trostre
@LawsDx
M&S Collection Snowflake Penguin Christmas Jumper with Lights, £29.50, M&S, Swansea
Molton Brown Men’s Distinguished Treat Cracker Gift Set, £20, Molton Brown, Cardiff Heat Change Mug, £10, Debenhams, Swansea Cottage Delight Chilli Beer Selection, 500mll, £15, John Lewis, Cardiff
Brown Wallet, £32, Debenhams, Swansea
Tu Mens Online Exclusive 5 Pack Marvel Socks, £8, Sainsbury.co.uk
David Gandy For Autograph Checked Gown, £39.50, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre
Tan Strap Watch, £25, River Island, Parc Fforestfach
Elemis Magnificent Man Gift Set, £38.25, Elemis.com
Babyliss For Men Carbon Steel Multi Groomer 7428U, £31.99, Argos, Parc Pemberton and Swansea
Brown Slippers, £29.99, TK Maxx, Morfa Retail Park Chilli Bowl and Sauce, £16, Debenhams, Swansea
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3X Character Stretch Bracelet Pack, £4.80, Accessorize, Swansea
Minnie Glitter Backpack, £10, Primark, Swansea
Ravensb urger Har ry Potter P Smyths Toys, Lla ictopia, £19.99, nsamlet
TIME FOR YOU
Baker by Ted Baker Earmuffs, £14, Debenhams, Swansea
Crayola My Painting Case Kit, £24.99, Amazon.co.uk
My 1st Christmas Wrap Romper, £14, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff
Gifts for Kids
JoJo Maman Bébé’s Reindeer Onesie, £26, Jojomamanbebe.co.uk
Christmas Dinner Set, £24, JoJo Maman Bébé, Jojomamanbebe.co.uk
Dear Zoo Pram Book, £4.99, M&Co, Cardiff
LAURA DAVIES finishes off present buying with last minute gifts for children, under £30 laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
Jojomamanbe be. co. uk
Wh oo zi
, y, £11 y To vit i t c tA
@LawsDx
Polar Bear Backpack, £16, M&S, Swansea
Soft Toy Santa £10 Mamas and Papas, Cardiff
GIFT GUIDE
Heart Message Board, £18, Debenhams, Swansea
Tractor, £4, Tiger Stores, Swansea
Pie F a £26.9 ce Cann on 9, Ve ry.co , .uk
Surpr ise G
Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Puppy, £15, Tesco, Parc Fforestfach
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Rainbocorn, £25, Debenhams, Swansea
Fairisle Flip-Mitts, £12.50, White Stuff, Cardiff
sea wan s, S m
Unicorn Backpack with Office Accessories, £7, Tiger Stores, Swansea
es, £11, Debe Seri nh ter a lit
Peter Rabbit Rattle Toy, £11.99, M&Co, Cardiff
Early Learning Centre HappyLand Tractor Set, £22, Mothercare, Parc Tawe
TIME FOR YOU
BY INVITATION W I T H
E D D I E
W H I T N E Y
Swansea businessman Eddie Whitney keeps us up to date with his charity work and social diary...
I
had the pleasure of attending a wonderful charity event at The Hyst, Swansea, to help raise money and awareness for our Heroes of The Falklands Conflict of 1982.
starting with Dusty Road, a fabulous local duo of country and pop music. Kirsten Orsborn followed, filling the dance floor with the classics of Soul and Motown and to end the evening Kirsten brought Ireland to Swansea for one night only in the form of three very talented, friendly Irish musicians known as The Celtic Gypsies who performed the Irish favourites along with ‘Galway Girl’ and ‘Wagon Wheel’.
The event was organised by our very own Forces Sweetheart Kirsten Orsborn and her mum Karen. Attending the event were members of The Royal Marines Association, SSAFA and SAMA UK/Wales. People came from miles around to attend the evening, the furthest being South Africa, along with Kirsten’s musical journalist Ian Davies of Stargazer International Music Magazine and Marc Silver from London’s Square Rock Group, who recently invited Kirsten to perform at his prestigious event celebrating the life of the outstanding Audrey Hepburn. Kirsten had the pleasure of meeting Audrey’s youngest son Luca Dotti. The charity event was held at The Royal Lancaster Hotel in London and raised money for Lymphoma Action and Eurordis. During Kirsten’s opening speech she explained, “Even though we are here to
In June, Kirsten toured Ireland for four weeks where she first met Gerard Timmons the lead guitarist of The Celtic Gypsies. During her stay she wasted no time and jumped straight into the studios with Gerard to record their very own single ‘We Are Glass’, which they performed together live for the first time at The Hyst. Whilst in Dublin she was able to perform a few songs live with The Celtic Gypsies in Murray’s Bar where their friendships blossomed. Kirsten will be returning to Ireland next February.
support our heroes, all we want you to do tonight is have some fun.” And fun it certainly was. The event was filled with entertainment
Kirsten is now preparing for the busy months ahead having been officially adopted as The Sweetheart of The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal of South West Wales. After raising money for our Falkland Heroes at The Hyst, Kirsten is now looking forward to visiting The Falkland Island in February.
Eddie x
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Jacket - £79.99 -H&M
TIME FOR YOU
2 Joy Dior EDP 50ml- £75.00 - Boots
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Bobble Hat - £9.99 - New Look
Guiness World Records - £10 The Works
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3
Llama Cushion - £16.99 - Homesense
COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS c r a P l i a t e R h c a f t s e r o With Ff Tis the season to be jolly so head to Fforestfach Retail Parc for Christmas gifts for all your family.
Blazer - £68 - River Island
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Bag - £15.99 - New Look
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Bag - £37- River Island
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Reindeer Sack- £3.99 Card Factory
20
Black Leather Shoes £36 - Clarks
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Gold Glass Cake Stand £24.99 - Homesense
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Satin Sandals - £29.99 H&M
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Santa Cam - £1.99 Card Factory
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Bag - £17.99 - New Look
Nike Epic React Flyknit Mens £130 - DW Sport
Reindeer Christmas Jumper - £35 River Island
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Scarf - £12.99 - New Look
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Win!
£50 each week of December
19
to spend on Christmas Gifts at Fforestfach Retail Parc by visiting our Facebook page @fforestfachretailparc www.fforestfachretailparc.co.uk Felt Dog Stocking £9.99 - Homesense
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Sanctuary Lavish Luxuries £20 - Boots
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*stock availability may vary
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Shoes - £7.99 H&M
Fleece sweatshirt £7.99 - H&M
Nike Element Half Zip top girls £28 - DW Sports
5
Skirt - £65 - River Island
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Letter LED Lightbox - £9.99 Homesense
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TIME FOR YOU VTech Portable Soother – Myla the Monkey, £36.99, Amazon.co.uk
Snuz Snuzpouch Baby Sleeping Bag 2.5 Tog, Geo Breeze, £36.95, Boots, Swansea
Rocking Scooter in Cream, £64, Nubie.co.uk
Newbie Bear Hat, £12, Newbie.co.uk
Beatrix Potter Peter Rabbit Money Box, £20, John Lewis, Cardiff
Offspring Tummy Time Activity Toy £19, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff
OH BABY LAURA DAVIES rounds up newborn essentials, gifts and keepsakes for your little ones laura.davies@mediawales.co.uk
@LawsDx
Fire Engine Ride On, £45, John Lewis, Cardiff
MyChild Walk N Rock 2 In 1 Baby Walker, £59.99, Argos, Swansea
RI Baby Soft Toy, £10, Riverisland.com
RI Baby Blue Two Piece, £28, Riverisland.com
Pabobo Mimi Bunny Musical Star Projector, £36, John Lewis, Cardiff
Cuddle Book and Comforter, £19, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff
Joie Sansa Rocker Petit Rocker, £150 Mothercare, Parc Tawe Newbie Bear Sweater, £18, Newbie.co.uk
Organic Babies Newborn Collection, £35, Greenpeople. co.uk
Wish Upon a Cloud Sit and Play, £29, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff Special Edition Tranquil Pioneer, £945, Silvercrossbaby.com
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Cuddleduck Group, £10.99 each, Cuddledry.com
Jumini Wooden Fox Bead Maze Toy, £13.99, Jojomamanbebe.co.uk
Cuddledry Baby and Me Washbag, £24.99, Cuddledry.com
TIME FOR YOU
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P ETER LYN N & PARTN ERS
What Not To Do When Filing For Divorce Applications for divorce surge in January, especially the first week after the New Year, as people decide to start the new year with a clean slate after what can be a very stressful Christmas holiday. Being with your partner for many days when a marriage is already experiencing problems is an issue but add the pressure of in-laws and putting on a “happy face” for visitors and it can quickly reach breaking point.
Divorce & Family Law Team at Peter Lynn & Partners Solicitors talks this month about what not to do when filing for divorce.
Sara Plant, Partner and Head of Family Law commented “Christmas for some couples can be fraught with lots of tension, emotion and financial issues which can expose the fractures in an already strained relationship. We see this reflected in the volume of divorce applications we receive in the New Year”. While Christmas can mean a breaking point for some, applying for divorce through anger can also cause many issues. Sara Commented “Our advice is to be strategic. You need to protect yourself, your children and your assets so making such a big decision when emotionally charged can cause problems further down the line”. From a financial point of view, divorce is one of the most significant decisions you will make and handled incorrectly, can have devastating results on your finances, especially if your partner earns more money or you are forced to sell your home. To that end alone, it is
imperative you seek legal advice before making any announcements. “Don’t rush and think about the end game” advises Sara. “Many people apply for divorce quickly and sometimes out of anger, especially if there has been infidelity, but it is better to be strategic”. In situations where high-value assets are concerned, obtaining financial records first before announcing the divorce will save time and money in the future, especially if your partner has the ability to try and hide assets. Sara Plant continued “We use a variety of resources from property valuers to forensic accountants and even antique valuers, and while we have the means to identify and locate assets, it saves time and money if the documentation relating to assets is provided at the outset”. For expert advice on matters relating to divorce, contact Peter Lynn & Partners. We have one of the largest, and arguably the best Divorce & Family Law teams in the region and offer a sympathetic yet professional service in a confidential manner. To arrange a meeting with the team, call 01792 450010 or email Divorce@plandp.co.uk
For expert advice on divorce or any family law matter, call 01792 450010 or email Divorce@plandp.co.uk to arrange a free initial meeting. SWANSEA LIFE 177
NEXT MONTH IN SWANSEA LIFE LOVE IS IN THE AIR... Valentine’s Gift Guide New Season Fashion Trends Bumper Bridal Edition Keeping Fab and Fit Shrove Tuesday Pancake Essentials DON’T MISS! OUT FEBRUARY 11
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Put a classic on your Christmas list with a pre-owned Rolex.
Stephen Hughes Fine Diamonds now have the largest collection of pre-owned Rolex in Wales. Come in store to view the range.
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