Swansea Life February 2018

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

SWA NSE A

LIFE february 2018 £2.95

INTERVIEW:

Sarra Elgan on family, love and rugby

DATE NIGHT:

Swansea dining at its best SIZZLING GIFT GUIDE

The

Valentine’s

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.

Visit two wedding venues in one afternoon Wedding Showcase at Fairyhill & Oldwalls Gower Sunday 11th March 2018, 12pm – 5pm oldwallscollection.com

Contents...

F E B RUA RY

2 018

SWA NSE A

FASHION

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

10. OOH LA LA… Sizzling lingerie for the one you love 12. RED ALERT! Make sure you look red hot this Valentine’s 26. KIDS ZONE Seasonal clothing for your little cherubs

10 HAIR & BEAUTY 31. BEAUTY NEWS What is new in beauty this month 40. HAIR SOS Give your locks some tlc in the cold weather

Swansea Life, Urban Village, High Street, Swansea, SA1 1NW @swansealife Email: laura.davies@trinitymirror.com www.swansealife.co.uk If we have published anything that is factually inaccurate, please contact the editor on 01792 545533, at postnews@mediawales.co.uk or at Evening Post, Urban Village, 220 High Street, Swansea, SA1 1NW and once verified we will correct it here as soon as possible.

Swansea Life is part of Local World, which is owned by Trinity Mirror PLC, which is a member of IPSO, the Independent Press Standards Organisation. We adhere to the Editors’ Code Of Practice as enforced

by IPSO, who are contactable for advice at Independent Press Standards Organisation, Gate House, 1 Farringdon Street, London.

EC4M 7LG. Website: http://www,ipso.co.ukTelephone: 0300 123 2220; email advice@ipso.co.uk If you have a complaint concerning a potential breach of the Code of Practice, we will deal with your complaint directly or IPSO can refer your complaint to us. Please go to http://www.trinitymirror. com/howtocomplain where you can view our Complaints Policy and Procedure. A “How To Complain” pack is also available by writing to the Legal and Compliance Department, Trinity Mirror PLC, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AP.

Average net distribution 7,500 copies sold and distributed in Swansea, Gower and the surrounding South West Wales areas.

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

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42. CHILL OUT Sit back and let your face mask do the work

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40 HEALTH & WELLBEING 48. FOOD BENEFITS Reap the benefits of the latest trend moringa 54. DIET TIPS Why you may not be shifting the pounds 56. SPICE IT UP The foods of love

BRIDE

MOTORING

60. REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS Brides share their stories

140

140. DRIVE TIME Try out the new BMW

64. FLORAL FANCIES Perfect petals for your big day 68. WEDDING DIY Cut costs with a few simple changes

86

64 FOOD & DRINK

WHAT’S ON 144. DIARY DATES Best events this February

74. FOOD REVIEW Dining out at Castellamare

147. READ IT The best healthy reads

82. VALENTINE’S TREATS Win their heart with chocolates and fizz 86. STIR FRY Celebrate Chinese New Year with themed recipes

HOUSE & HOME

115

92. HOME SWEET HOME Buy yourself a Carmarthenshire home

144 SOCIAL DIARY 152. MAGGIES A dinner at the River House

102. REFRESH Simple tips to update your home without breaking the bank

160. OIL FOR WALES The annual New Year’s party 164. AWARDS NIGHT Recognition for West Wales businesses

110. ULTRA VIOLET Decorate with shades of purple

132

148. THE BIG INTERVIEW Craig Gallivan and his latest show

164

OUT & ABOUT

TIME FOR YOU

132. WALKIES A leisurely walk with Andrew Morgan

168. GIFT OF LOVE Valentine’s inspiration for her and him

136. HOLIDAY! Travel destinations you need to book

172. INTERVIEW Presenter Sarra Elgan talks Six Nations and family

138. LONDON WEEKEND A night in the big smoke

174. PIN UP PETS Your cute pet pictures

174

swansealife.co.uk 5

E D I TO R’ S L E T TE R

Welcome...

At last, the January blues are behind us and we can now enter February with a bit of a spring in our step. In my opinion, it’s the month when we can really start to enjoy ourselves once again and truly look forward to the year ahead.

For me, the start of the Six Nations rugby is when we can really put Dry January behind us and celebrate with friends and loved ones as we cheer on our men in red, generally at the local pub or stadium. This month we speak to BT Sport presenter Sarra Elgan, who talks about the friendly Wales-Ireland rivalry in the Elgan-Easterby household, being a working mum and juggling a young family.

February is the month of love. Ladies, I am sure you have not forgotten Valentine’s Day! So with that in mind, this month, the magazine has been dedicated to the patron saint of love with our special Valentine’s edition. Inside, we have a three-page gift guide for him and her to make present buying that little bit easier, the latest lingerie collections and date-night fashion and beauty buys as well as suggestions about where to dine out in Swansea with a selection of swoonsome restaurants for just about every occasion, Valentine’s and beyond.

MARK REES

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

This month also celebrates Shrove Tuesday and the Chinese New Year, so expect a month of eating! Inside, we have delicious, quick, stir fry recipes as well as everything you need to make the perfect pancakes.

Don’t miss either our homes section with more ideas, more tips and more style than ever. And it need not cost a fortune either. We also have all our regular features including real-life wedding stories and inspiration, beauty and wellbeing and what to do over the month.

So, there you go. A packed magazine, to really get you in the mood for love.

Enjoy the read!

WI N N E R ! U K REG I O NA L MA G A ZI N E O F TH E YE A R

SWA NSE A

LIFE

DEBBIE ROBERTS

Advertising Manager 01792 545626 debbie.roberts@trinitymirror.com

FEBRUARY 2018 £2.95

INTERVIEW:

Sarra Elgan on family, love and rugby

DATE NIGHT:

Swansea dining at its best

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

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EDITOR

SIZZLING GIFT GUIDE

The

Valentine’s

Edition

COVER IMAGE: Jacket, £39; Trousers, £29; Top £22; all M&Co, Cardiff www.mandco.com

SANDRA EVANS

EDITORIAL DESIGNER sandra.evans@trinitymirror.com

Swansea lives OUR PICK OF THE MONTHS BEST PARTY GET-TOGETHERS (FOM PAGE 152)

STRADEY PARK HOTEL & SPA 

152

MAGGIES EVENT

155

EVA ASHLEY BRIDAL

From Wednesday 14th to Saturday 17th of February

Spoil your loved one...

156

YOUNG BUSINESS DRAGONS

Book a romantic meal in our newly refurbished Restaurant.

A lavishly delicious three course menu in a beautiful setting.

Only £25.00 per person or take a look at our mini

158

CWMTAWE SCHOOL REUNION

162

160

OIL 4 WALES PARTY

Valentine stay

packages available, which include dinner, bed and breakfast or a relaxing spa treatment package... for more information view our website www.stradeyparkhotel.com

Stradey Park Hotel & Spa, Llanelli, SA15 4HA T: 01554 758171 www.stradeyparkhotel.com @stradeyhotelandspa

PARISIAN CHRISTMAS PARTY

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Dressed to impress this prom 1 0 2 - 1 0 4 E v e r s l e y R o a d | S ke t t y Swansea | SA2 9DB Te l : 0 7 5 0 8 8 5 9 0 2 4 w w w. 1 0 2 c o u t u re . c o m

FA S H I O N F L A S H W I T H L AU R A D AV I ES @LawsDx

GREEN GODDESS

laura.davies@swwmedia.co.uk

Star by Julien Macdonald Bag, £49, Debenhams, Swansea

Pink Floral Pyjama Style Shirt, £28, and trousers, £26, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

Dress, £65, River Island, Parc Fforestfach Vero Moda Satin Wrap Dress, £59, Littlewoods.com

get the look

POP OF PINK

Jewel Detail Multi Tassel Earrings, £12, Very.co.uk

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE...

Say it with hearts, lip-prints and love slogans, this Valentine’s. Here are a few that take our fancy.

Add a pop of colour to your new season wardrobe with this classic cut, statement pink spring jacket. Priced at £239 and available in selected boutiques and online at www.josephribkoff.com

Heart Jumper, £55, White Stuff, Cardiff

This bag is perfect for a seasonal update. And we just love the bamboo handle. V

by Very Bamboo Handle Mini Embroidered Tote Bag, £30, Very.co.uk

LUST-HAVE

Classic, versatile with a pop of colour, these are on our pay-day wish list.

Cherubb, £75, Dune, Cardiff

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Sterling Silver and Diamond Alphabet Charms, £140 each, Sterling Silver Tie the Knot Heart Charm, £40, and Sterling Silver Chain from £50, Links of London, Cardiff

White Polka Dot ‘Love’ Frill T-Shirt, £24, River Island, Parc Fforestfach and Swansea

Read My Lips Scarf, £28, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Flare Shoe, £44, Office, Swansea

denim delights Wearing jeans needn’t be a failsafe option especially when you have so many stylish alternatives to choose from. Whether it’s embellishment, motifs or even colour and cut, there is a pair for you. We love this pair from Topshop with yellow embroidery which looks fab teamed with these yellow heels.

Jeans, £89, and Shoes, £62, both from Topshop, Swansea

date night dress

arm candy

Silky separates are going nowhere. For a beyond-comfy yet statement outfit, swap your boots for strappy or feathery heels and throw on an aviator jacket for maximum fashion points.

Per Una Jumper, £29.50, M&S, Swansea

Take inspiration from The Greatest Showman’s Rebecca Ferguson, who looked ravishing head to toe in red recently. You can’t go wrong with a bit of red, especially with Valentine’s Day around the corner.

Get the look, by teaming this Dorothy Perkins coat, £65, and trousers, £25, with this Oasis polo neck.

pyjama party

FASHION

If you are looking for a feminine dress for Valentine’s Day and beyond, this print wrap over from Next ticks all the boxes. Plisse Wrap Dress, £38, Next, Morfa Retail Park and Parc Trostre

FASHION Soft Roman ce Corded Lace Non-Pad Br a,£9, and Knicker s,£4.50, George at A sda, Llanelli and Gorseinon

River Island, Swansea

Light Blue Set, Top £9, Bottoms, £4.50 from George ast Asda, Llansamlet and Parc Trostre

Red Lace Bodysuit £12, Primark, Swansea

Balcony Bra,£18, Briefs, £9, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Set pluses racing this Valentine’s Day with these sizzling lingerie sets.

LAURA DAVIES picks out the hottest

valentine lingerie laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Black Lace Strappy Longline Bra, £16.99, Mesh Briefs, £8.99, New Look, Swansea

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Myah Balconette, £34, Thong, £14, Boux Avenue, Cardiff

Longline Bra £25, Briefs, £12, Next, Parc Trostre

@LawsDx

Ally Chemise Powder Blue, £40, Boux Avenue, Cardiff

Autograph Bra, £22.50, Knickers, £10, M&S, Swansea

Bra, £22.50, Knickers £10 M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre

Black and Pink Lingerie Set, Top, £9, Bottoms, £4.50, George at Asda, Gorseinon and Llanelli

Reger by Janet Reger, £38, Debenhams, Swansea

Bralet, £12.99, Briefs, £5.99, New Look, Parc Trostre and Swansea

n, Dressing Gow 0, £16, Bra, £1 , Knickers, £5 Tesco, and Llansamlet ach Parc Fforestf

Zoe High Apex Bra, £28, Thong, £14, Boux Avenue, Cardiff

£16.99, New Look, Swansea

Lovehoney Seduce Me Red Push-Up Bra and Suspender Thong Set, £29.99, lovehoney.co.uk

M&S Collection Bra, £25, Knickers, £8, M&S, Swansea

Bralet, £12.99, Briefs, £5.99, New Look, Parc Fforestfach and Swansea

Nine by Savannah Miller Bra, £22, Brazilian Knickers, £9, Debenhams, Swansea

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Red Blo £35 ck Heel , Sim A ply B nkle Bo e, C o ardif t, f Fa Deb ith Bag, enha £ ms, 29, Swa nsea

FASHION FASHION

RED H OT

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Limit ed E ditio n Sk irt, £ 25, M &S, S wan sea

Pu Nex ffa Coa t, M orfa t, £55, Reta il Pa rk

Red Mac , £39 .99, New Loo k, M orfa Reta il Pa rk

Red Flu Tesc te Slee v o, Pa rc Ff e Top, £ 7 ores tfach ,

Red Belt New Jumpsu it Loo k, Sw , £24.99 anse a

Red Tie Doro Front Sh ir thy P erkin t Dress, £3 s, Sw anse 5, a

Rach e Rub l Mule, y Dr £139 e , Hob ss, £199 , b s a John t Le Card wis, iff

Pop Plea t Top , £49 .50, Oliv er B onas , Car diff

LAU Get dat eRA D AVIE night re a S pic ks o dy with a ut th e ho touch o laura ttest f .dav ies@ trinit on t scarlet. ymir he h ror.c om igh s @La tree wsD x t

M&S Co M&S llection , Par Sho cT e, £ Swa rostre an 35, nsea d

Vero Mod a Po ppy Print Dres s, £3 6, Lit tlew ood s.co m

Little Mist ress Red Plea t Skir t, £4 8, Lit tlem istre ss.co .uk

New Red Ch u Loo k, Pa nky Nec rc Ff k ores lace, £9 tfach .9 and 9, Swa nsea

Red Vic Miss toriana B Self ridge louse, £ 28 , Swa nsea ,

M&S Coll ectio n Dr ess, £55 , M& S, Sw anse a

Pom Pom Nex Sweat t, Pa e rc Tr r, £34, ostr e V by Very Frill Deta il Tro user, £30 , Ver y.co.u k

Red Shirt Dres s, £1 3, Pr imar k, Sw anse a

Red Tie

Fron t Shir t Dre ss, £ 35, D orot hy P erkin s, Sw anse a

Jum per, £16 , Swa Sainsbu nsea ry’s,

Lost Ink a t Nav Navabi, abi.c o.uk £31,

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FASHION

It’s all

white

From award dos to the Celebrity Big Brother launch, women of all ages have been proving that lighter shades shouldn’t just be confined to the summer months. Inspired by a host of fashionable females, we look at four chic ways to wear white out of “season.” laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Suits

Coats

Trouser suits have been making a massive comeback in fashion recently, the once fussy form of tailoring now a viable option day or night.

If white is an uncommon fixture in your wardrobe, but you’re not keen on a big overhaul, the best way to incorporate it, is through outerwear. Follow Meghan Markle’s lead and wrap yourself up in an ivory trench, combining minimalist elegance with floaty femininity.

Take your cue from models Arizona Muse and Ashley James by choosing a longline jacket and team it with wide-leg trousers to give your look a relaxed feel. Add a pop of colour with crimson lipstick or bright court shoes.

Cotton Trench Coat, £299, Karen Millen, Cardiff

La Redoute Collections Cotton Mix Jacket reduced to £35.40 from £59, laredoute.co.uk and Ecru wide-leg trousers £45, Next, Swansea

Dresses It can be tricky to pull off a white dress without looking like you're attempting to upstage an unsuspecting bride, but actresses Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Charlotte Hope prove that it can be done, and done well.

Henrietta embellished short bridal dress, £349, Monsoon, Parc Tawe

Suits you: Arizona Muse at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards

Not only will it keep you cosy while temperatures plummet toward the minus numbers, but as the ultimate neutral, it’ll complement all your pre-existing outfits, making a bold statement without any risk of clashing.

In fact, a white dress is the coolest way to do black-tie right now, and if that means shopping from the bridal department, so be it (unless you are actually a wedding guest, in which case stay well clear).

Sleek accessories and understated jewellery complete the look.

Hetty Belted Wrap-Front Coat, was £295 now £190, Reiss, Cardiff

Follow her lead: Meghan Markle with Prince Harry

Hugo Boss Pointed-Toe Mules, £269, hugoboss.com

Shoes

Dip your toe in the trend - literally - with some sharp white leather heels. These playful Celine mules have been spotted on everyone from the Kardashians to teen actress Millie Bobby Brown, and now the high street has got in on the act too, so you can get a pair without the designer price tag.

Off-White Amelie Wedding Dress, £150, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea Wearing it well: Phoebe Waller-Bridge (left) and Charlotte Hope

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White Blazer, £50, and Wide-leg Trousers, £40, Wallis at Debenhams, Swansea

V By Very Divine Pointed Mule, £32, Very.co.uk

FASHION FASHION

BLOOMING

You can always rely on Pandora to come up with the goods on Valentine’s Day and this year is no different with a stunnning collection of jewellery to suit all. We love this Tree of Love Charm, £40, which depicts an intricate tree of love with heart-shaped leaves and symbolises friendship, love and loyalty There is also a matching heart-shaped pendant necklace to complete the set, £80, Pandora, Swansea

THIS MONTH

LAVENDER

This floral maxi dress from Next, is on our wish list this month.

It is so versatile and comfortable - perfect for a romantic date night, dressed with heels, or for a more casual look throw on a bright jumper and kick on some flats. Floral Dress £55, Next, Morfa Retail Park

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

@LawsDx

COLOUR POP

In the girliest of shades, we love this sweet treat. Arm candy at its best.

A DOG LOVER’S DREAM

PLUS SIZE

TREE OF LOVE

Norton Circle Bag, £20, Accessorize, Swansea

To celebrate St. Dwynwen’s Day and Valentine’s Day, Clogau has collaborated with Welsh poet and keen dog lover, Natalie Pritchard, to launch the limited edition Dog Lover’s Dream Milestone Bead Charm . Inspired by her six year old Labradoodle, Alfie, Natalie wrote a ‘A Love Note’, a poetic love letter from dog to owner which comes with the charm. £89 , Clogau, Cardiff

Make sure you wow with a chunky cable knit, which is a must this season. But if you want to earn extra fashion points, opt for a bright green colour to make your outfit pop. Whether you wear it casually with jeans, smartly with tailored grey and white check cropped trousers or prepare to dare with bright punchy bottoms, you can create several on trend looks with one hero piece.

Green Chunky Knit Roll Neck Jumper, £42, River Island. Swansea

THINK PINK Forget blue suede shoes and pick up these pink suede heeled boots, £27.99, New Look, Swansea

DESIGN FORUM

M&S has launched a new plus-size collection featuring more than 100 products.

M&S Collection Curve, which is available in sizes 18-32, includes everyday and occasionwear pieces - from elevated basics like sumptuous soft knitwear and faux leather outerwear, to beautiful blouses with intricate sleeve detailing and evening dresses and jumpsuits that skim the silhouette.The collection, which drew upon the expertise of plus-size fashion blogger Danielle Vanier, comes in a classic colour palette of blush, greys and khaki ranges from £7.50 for a white T-shirt up to £89 for a black fitted dress. Available now at M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre

HIGH STREET HIT Primark has upped its game this spring with hero pieces in washed denim, soft linens and beautiful broderie anglaise. And from an environmentally, friendly perspective it has added sustainable cotton products to the collection, while at the same time ensuring that each of its factories commits to meeting internationally recognised ethical standards.

Pictured: Shirt Dresses, £13 each (right), Coat, £30, Sweat, £8, Jeans, £15 (left) Primark, Swansea River Island has announced Holly Fulton as the final Design Forum collaboration.

Famous for her homage to art-deco bold prints, vibrant colour and heavy doses of crystals, Fulton has been showing at LFW since 2009. Launching in February, the 13-piece collection oozes decadence, elements of pop-art and enticement that “attracts someone fun, confident, who loves colour and appreciates the detail and workmanship in each piece.” Holly is known for her magpie-instincts, with key forefront pieces being the shearling jacket embezzled with gems, pastel contrasting sequin dresses and her favourite piece, a decadent embellished bodysuit.

Prices range from £20-£300, River Island, Swansea and www.riverisland.com swansealife.co.uk 17

FASHION 1

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1.J by Jasper Conran Dress, £75 2. Mood Earrings, £10 3. J by Jasper 6 Conran Bag, £45 4. Principles Blazer, £50 5. H! by Henry Holland Dress, £49 6. Principles Blouse, £34 7. Nine by Savannah Miller, £20 8. H! by Henry Holland Dress, £40 9. Faith Trainers, £29 10. Red Herring 7 Jacket, £45 11. Faith Heel, £49

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HIGH STREET HOTTEST

1

LAURA DAVIES shops this season’s High Street styles

2

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4 1. Alana Dress, £179; Rachel Mule, £129 2. Amara Dress, £299 3. Pippa Bracelet, £20 4. Chester Satchel, £179 5. Lillia Dress, £169 6. Lula Red Trouser, £110 7. Iris Skirt, £139 8. Alana Blouse, £89 9. Tallulah Trouser, £149 7 10. Paige Block Heel, £159

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@LawsDx

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1. Sunglasses £8.99, Blazer £29.99, T-shirt, £4.99, Skirt, £17.99 2. Grey Prince of Wales Check Jumpsuit, £24.99 3. Grey Twist Front Shirt, £22.99 4. Colour Block Jumper, £15.99 5. Green Sequin Sheer Sleeve Dress, £29.99 6. Yellow White Patterned T-Shirt, £9.99 7. White Leather and Black Contrast Bucket Bag, £17.99 8. Bralet, £12.99, Briefs, £5.99 9. Mustard Velvet Court Shoe, £19.99 10. Red Plisse Cropped Side Stripe Trousers, £22.99

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1. Pink Dogtooth Coat, £85, Pink Knit, £42, Jeans, £45; Bag, £30; Boots, £70 2. Pink Midi Dress with Halter Neck, £50 3. Multi Coloured Knitwear Laddered Jumper, £40 4. Top, £55 5. Green Belted Trench Jacket, £85 6. Blue Denim Belted Culotte Jeans, £45 7. Bag, £35 8. Slogan T-Shirt, £24 9. Happiness T-Shirt, £22 10. Slip on Sliders, £32

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1. Sweater, £25, Trousers, £35, Yellow Tote, £40 2. Earrings, £8.50 3. Embroidered Shirt, £40 4. Polka Dot Jumpsuit, £42 5. Cat Print Wrap Dress, £42 6. Cable Knit Sweater, £34 7. Floral Saddle Bag, £40 8. Pom Pom Sweater, £30 9. Floral Kitten Heel Boot, £40 10. Mini Tote Bag, £30

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lo e hearts LAURA DAVIES gets inspired by pastel hues that are good enough to eat.

Think fondant-coloured coats, good enough to eat candyfloss suits and candy-crush casuals. What will your sugary treat say? Our’s are shouting Be Mine!

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

18 swansealife.co.uk

@LawsDx

Jumper, ÂŁ22, M&Co, Cardiff

swansealife.co.uk 19

Lula Bag, £149, Lydia Trench, £269; Annie Trouser, £85; Annie Slingback, £139; Hobbs at John Lewis, Cardiff

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M&S Collection Top, £29.50, Per Una Trousers, £29.50, M&S, Swansea

swansealife.co.uk 21

M&S Collection Jacket, £55; Limited Edition Shirt, £29.50; M&S Collection Trousers, £29.50, M&S, Swansea

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Pink Blazer, £70; Pink Trousers, £42; Vest, £12; Necklace, £12, River Island, Swansea

swansealife.co.uk 23

FASHION

Pineapple x Grey Logo Cap, £14, Miss Selfridge, Swansea

M&S Collection Bra, £18, M&S, Swansea

F&F Coral Gilet, £22, Tesco, Llanelli and Parc Fforestfach

Cycling Gloves, £4.99, TK Maxx, Parc Trostre and Morfa Retail Park

&FAB

FIT

If you have started to break your New Year’s resolution of going to the gym and keeping fit, then give yourself a motivational boost with LAURA DAVIES’ pick of activewear from the high street

F&F Half Zip Lime Long Sleeve Top, £18, Tesco, Llansamlet

Cardio Shoppe r, £10, Paperch ase,

Cardiff

Souluxe Capri Leggings, £14, Matalan, Morriston

Gym and Tonic Slogan Cold Shoulder Jumper, £17.99, New Look, Swansea

Black & Aqua Coral Capri Leggings £14.99, TK Maxx, Morfa Retail Park

Green and Black Palm Leaf Print Crop Top, £14.99, Leggings, £19.99, New Look, Swansea and Parc Trostre

, George at atch, £8 Asd ess W a, Fitn

stre Tro rc Pa

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M&S Collection Pants, £25, M&S, Swansea

Slogan Vest, £12 , Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Bright Red Sports Top, £7.99, New Look, Swansea

Reebok Geo Print Crop Top, £31, Littlewoods.com

Nine by Savannah Miller Vest, £24, Debenhams, Swansea

Monochrome Brandy Knitted Trainers, £39.99, TK Maxx, Morfa Retail Park Pink Ombre Strap Trainers, £15, George at Asda, Llansamlet and Llanelli

FASHION

Bag, £30 , River Island, Swansea

&RED

Nine West Mcfally Origami Bow Court £125, Littlewoods.com

PINK

J by Jasper Conran Bag, £55, Debenhams, Swansea

V by Very Tie Detail Sandal, £35, Very.co.uk

LAURA DAVIES picks out heels and bags which are perfect for Valentine’s Day and beyond laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Mortimer Heel, £65, Dune at Debenhams, Swansea

Aspiration Heel, £95, Dune at Debenhams, Swansea

Brocco, £60, Dune, Cardiff

Faith Boots, £75, Debenhams, Swansea

Red Circle Detail Handbag, £17.99, New Look, Parc Fforestfach and Parc Trostre

Hay Hay Heel, £72, Office, Swansea

Red Strappy Heels, £29.99, New Look, Swansea and Parc Fforestfach

Dinidess, £65, Dune, Cardiff

Pink Heels, £36, River Island, Parc Fforestfach

M&S Collection Bag, £69, M&S, Swansea

Tommy Hilfiger Cross Body Bag, £130, Littlewoods.com

M&S Collection Shoe, £25, M&S, Swansea

Red Biba Bag, House of Fraser, £79, Cardiff

Bow Detail Flats, £32, Next, Parc Trostre and Swansea

M&S Collection Shoe, £35, M&S, Swansea and Parc Fforestfach

Red Herring Bag, £25, Debenhams, Swansea

Pink Suede Heeled Boot, £27.99, New Look, Swansea

V by Very Circle Detail Clutch Bag, £25, Very.co.uk

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FASHION

LAURA DAVIES picks out some of the newest kidswear to hit the high street laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Rhino Jumper, £5, Tesco, Llansamlet and Parc Fforestfach

Orange Gilet, £25, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff

Dashing and Dainty Outfit Set, £16, M&Co, Cardiff

Tractor and Stripe Detail Long Sleeve Top, £6, M&Co, Cardiff

Skaters, from £14, Next, Swansea

Boys Denim Dungarees, £22, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff

Grey T-Shirt, £10, River Island, Parc Fforestfach

Sweatshirt, from £7, Joggers from £6, Hi-Tops, £14, Matalan, Parc Cwmdu and Llansamlet

@LawsDx

Print Jumper, from £13, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Slogan Jumper, from £11, Next, Parc Trostre and Swansea

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Jumper, £10-£14, M&S, Swansea

Natalia Coat Dusky Pink, £52, Monsoon, Parc Trostre

Pink Bomber, £35, River Island, Swansea

Cat Cardigan, £20-£22, Bag, £9, Next, Parc Trostre

RI Mini Trousers, £12, River Island, Swansea

Pink Frill Bodysuit, £12, Floral Harem Trousers, £16, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff

Yellow Embellished Dress, £65, River Island, Parc Fforestfach

Giraffe Jacket, from £27-£29, Next, Swansea and Parc Trostre

Dress, £22-£26 , M&S, Parc Trostre

Top and Pinafore Set, from £14, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Elephant Top and Dungarees Outfit Set, £14, M&Co, Cardiff

Spot Pinafore Set, £25, Mamas and Papas, Cardiff

swansealife.co.uk 27

FASHION

Ring detail bags Dorseey Tan Bag, £80, Dune, Cardiff

Inspired by the Chloe catwalk, and as seen sported by Meghan Markle on Christmas Day, gold ring detailing bags are going to be huge for spring. In tan suede and leather, these Seventiesinspired bags are best paired with tonal outerwear, dark floral dresses and, later in the year, floaty summer frocks.

Marks and Spencer Collection Bag, £39.50; Dress, £39.50; Shoes, £25; Earring, £9.60; Necklace, £15, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre

HOT BAG TRENDS Diaries at the ready - this is when the season’s hottest bags will be landing in stores. LAURA DAVIES picks out the five biggest bag trends of 2018 and the standout styles on the high street. laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Metallic bags Metallic Tote Bag, £45, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

At the other end of the accessories spectrum, shiny sweet-wrapper bags are having a major moment. For day, a roomy tote in a neutral metallic like rose gold or gun metal will go with everything, but we’re also loving this trend for evening, when a mini bag in a punchy hue makes an all-black ensemble stand out.

Biba Bag, £70; People Tree Top, £35; Salsa Jeans, £70, all House of Fraser, Cardiff (in store April)

Hobo bags It's been a while since hobo bags were in vogue, but one look at 2018's versions and we're wondering why this slouchy staple ever went away.

Blue Crossbody Bag, £38, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Retail Park

Blue bags Cobalt, electric or royal - call it what you will, there’s only one colour trend that really matters this season.

If you love a big, throw-it-all-in kind of bag, this is the one for you, but this spring the hobo has a slightly more structuredfeel and we're seeing more bright shades, like lemon yellow and pillarbox red.

Lucy Leather Hobo Bag, £65, Accessorize, Parc Trostre

Whatever the bag, this bold blue is perfect for adding a flash of colour to camel or grey outerwear, and looks equally chic against other saturated hues like bottle green or fuchsia.

Faith Bag, £35, Debenhams, Swansea

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Carter Barrel Bag, £30 Accessorize, Swansea (in store March)

barrel bags A cross between a bowling bag and a doctor’s bag, the barrel is ideal if you want something sizeable but still structured.

With both top handle and shoulder strap, this is a supremely practical bag but doesn’t scrimp on style either - a mix of textiles and gold detailing give even high street versions high end elegance.

Hobbs Lula Bag, £149, John Lewis, Cardiff

Gold Raffia Holdall Bag, £45, River Island, Swansea (in store end of March)

FASHION

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1. Earrings, £12, River Island, Swansea | 2. Jacket, £50, Debenhams, Swansea | 3. Per Una Coat, £99, M&S, Swansea | 4. Cherie Mini Handheld Bag, £34, Acessorize, Swansea 5. Lilac Ruffle Long Sleeve Dress, £50, Dorothy Perkins, Swansea | 6. Top, £32, Topshop, Swansea | 7. Myth, £65, Office, Swansea | 8. Pom Pom Sweater, £30, Next, Morfa Retail Park | 9. Pink Tie Waist Crop Trousers (part of a co-ord set) £19.99, New Look, Swansea | 10. V by Very Stripe Tiered Shirt Dress, £38, Very.co.uk 11. M&S Collection Skirt, £25, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre | 12. Matilde, £80, Dune at Debenhams, Swansea | 13. Mood Bee Earrings, £10, Debenhams, Swansea

swansealife.co.uk 29

BRIAN BROWN SALON MODELLING & MANAGEMENT AGENCY

01792 301901

1 BELLEVUE WAY • SWANSEA • SA1 5BZ

www.briandbrown.co.uk

HAIR & BEAUTY

L’Occitane and Rifle Paper Co. have worked together to adorn the beloved Shea Butter collection with hand-painted designs to bring to life the natural beauty of Provence.

For a beauty must make sure you buy the brand’s classic hand cream. Its yummy formula blends honey, almond extract and coconut oil with Shea Butter to leave hands soft and smooth but never greasy.

W I T H L AU R A D AV I ES laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

1ST ANNIVERSARY

To mark Izia fragrance’s first anniversary, the bottle has been reinvented by British artist and illustrator, Quentin Jones to create a colourful, floral and vibrant design to reflect its floral fragrance.

@LawsDx

PART ONE

WINNING GOLD! We are super excited about the new ghd Gold professional styler - proven to deliver sleeker, smoother and healthier looking hair.

It features dual-zone technology for premium performance, an improved heat up time of only 25 seconds, a modernised design for smooth, snag-free styling, plus an automatic sleep mode. So now really is the time to ditch your old styler and indulge in gold.

Sisley Izia Anniversary Edition EDP 50ml, £95, House of Fraser, Cardiff

NEW Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Tom Ford launches its new fragrance Vanille Fatale - a seductively fanged new vanilla scent whose initial subtleties belie the dangerously glamorous depth within.

Ghd Gold Styler, £139, www,ghd.com

Shea Butter Rifle Paper Hand Cream 150ml, £20, L’Occitane, Cardiff

PREMIER CRU - THE SERUM

Caudalie has partnered with Harvard Medical School to create the latest skincare breakthrough in slowing the ageing process, Premier Cru The Serum, features an innovative patented technology, Vinergy, a unique formula that combines Caudalie’s signature resveratrol and Betaine to help restore cellular energy metabolism.

SKIN BRIGHTENER Bobbi Brown introduces its newest addition to the brand’s potent Remedies Collection :Remedies Skin Brightener No. 42. This intensive, radiance-boosting treatment provides both a quick fix for tired skin, by gently sloughing off surface dullness to reveal clearer, newer skin, and long-term brightening via cell turnover stimulation and discoloration reduction. £19.50, Debenhams, Swansea

INSTANTCORRECT We love Sisley’s new Instant Correct, a professional tinted primer that creates a perfect base, prepares the skin for makeup and improves the hold and radiance of foundation. The skin-perfecting fluid instantly rebalances the natural skin tone and evens and blurs out imperfections to create smooth, luminous skin.

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Caudalie Premier Cru The Serum 30ml, £90, www.spacenk.com

superstar...

Tom Ford Vanille Fatale 50ml, £158, John Lewis, Cardiff

Sisley Instant Correct (2 shades – Just Rosy, Just Lavendar) £57, www.sisley.paris.co.uk

With the introduction of SUPERSTART Skin Renewal Booster, Elizabeth Arden marked the emergence of a new skincare booster beauty category to address the healthy look of skin’s surface layer. Now, it’s expanding it’s revolutionary line with the addition of SUPERSTART Probiotic Cleanser -Whip to Clay- and SUPERSTART Probiotic Boost Skin Renewal Biocellulose Mask, harnessesing the power of probiotics in conjunction with rich botanicals to holistically help restore skin to a radiant, healthy appearance. By supporting the skin’s natural microflora to strengthen its own natural defences, SUPERSTART leaves skin feeling resilient and refreshed. Together, these products provide the perfect boost to any skincare regimen for all ages and skin types.

SUPERSTART Probiotic Cleanser Whip to Clay 125ml, £22; Probiotic Boost Skin Renewal Biocellulose Mask, £40; Skin Renewal Booster 30ml, £45, Debenhams, Swansea

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H O LO G R A P H I C S H I N E

SOFT & SMOOTH...

BEAUTY NEWS

A mirage of megawatt colour comes alive on your lips with MAC’s Grand Illusion Glossy Liquid Lipcolour. Swipe on futuristic sheen with this exclusive holographic lip colour packed with iridescent pearls, then be transfixed by the refreshing cooling sensation that makes lips feel instantly fuller.

Available in 14 daring colours from green, to purple, pinks and even yellow. £18.50 each, MAC, Debenhams, Swansea

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING SHINY AND NUDE? BareMinerals is taking a literal shine to its beautifully bare hues collection with Gen Nude Patent Lip Lacquer, £17 - a range of 10 show-stopping shades from mauve, pink, peach and beige—handpicked to flatter and enhance every skin tone. Its patent-like shine leaves lips feeling soft, not sticky.

The brand also launches its Gen Nude Powder Blush in 12 natural-looking shades. £22, Debenhams and Boots, Swansea.

THIS IS YOUR PROOF

NEW YEAR NEW YOU Make 2018 the year you regain that youthful glow!

Visit Dr Alan Jones and his staff at Defy Time Medical Cosmetic Clinic in Swansea.

30 years experience as a GP, 16 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 Clinics 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

“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”.

Medical Cosmetic Clinic

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.

Gift Vouchers Available

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

ADVERT PROOF

WOULD YOU LIKE TO

BEAUTY NEWS W I T H L AU R A D AV I ES

SPRING IT ON...

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

NARS Cosmetics launches its Spring 2018 Colour Collection this February, which features new shades and formulas for lips, eyes, and cheeks. Face the season with a fresh spectrum of luminous neutrals and molten accents. Lips go creamy and full coverage with limited-edition high pigmented shades of fanfavorite, Lip Cover – a sensorial creamy lip gloss that combines extreme softness and incredible color saturation on lips. Eyes open up to polished shine in metallic Velvet Shadow Sticks, while a radiant gradient enlivens cheeks with tones of Liquid Blush and a newly formulated Highlighting Blush. Featuring a satiny, cool powder that imparts the most subtle pearly radiance to the skin, the new sheer and buildable Highlighting Blush formula is easy to apply and melts flawlessly into the complexion revealing an enhanced, healthy skin tone.

@LawsDx

PART TWO

lush

WATER BABY!

From £21-£24, John Lewis, Cardiff

You can always rely on Lush to come up with the goods at Valentine’s. We love their range of bath bombs, massage bars and gorgeous gift sets to get you into the mood for love…

REDHOT...

Lush Valentine’s Collection from £3.50

LIPCARE This Valentine’s Day, unleash your instinct….

Discover make-up that’s sexier than ever with Rimmel’s new limited-edition Red Instinct Look by Rita Ora. Turn up the heat with dark smoky eyes, lusciously black lashes and ravishing red lips and tips.

Magni’Eyes Eye Contouring Palette by Rita Ora, £8.99, Wonder’Full Mascara, £7.99, Lasting Finish Lipstick in Red Instinct and Crimson Love, £4.99; Super Gel in Red Instinct and Crimson Love, £5.99, Superdrug, Swansea

Valentine’s is definitely the time to give your lips a bit of tlc. That is why we are totally in love with this gorgeously scented lip care product by Jo Malone.

Enriched with moringa butter, rose flower wax and kukui seed oil and scented with enlivening notes of mint, balanced by the lively brightness of ginger, it is the perfect cold weather essential. For him and for her.

Jo Malone London English Mint & Ginger Lip Care, £20, Jo Malone, Cardiff

We have always loved Sisley’s range of shimmering khol pencils, but now even better news - they are launching a waterproof range.

The Phyto-khol star waterproof liner pens come with retractable leads and are available in eight deep shades (Sparkling Brown, Sparkling Bronze, Sparkling Blue, Sparkling Black Grey, Sparkling Mystic Blue, Mystic Green, Mystic Purple) to illuminate the eyes.

Sisley Phyto Khol Star, £36, www.sisley.paris.co.uk

Food for thought

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HAIR & BEAUTY

We adore Elemis’ new Superfood collection. The natural blend of highly concentrated superfoods deeply nourishes and hydrates. Anti-oxidant and omega-rich Broccoli, Flax Seed and Daikon Radish feeds the skin, helping to plump and smooth Now available in a facial wash, £25, a day cream, £42 and night cream, £46, Monks Spa at Machynys, Llanelli

ACTIVE BEAUTY FOR AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE

LET’S DO THE TWIST Sisley’s Phyto-Lip Twist is a shot of pigment with a velvet feel and an angled tip that follows the curve of the lips to help draw a perfect contour and provide impeccable coverage. This month it launches in four new matte shades ranging from pink beige to garnet red: Sisley Phyto Lip Twist Matt (4 shades – Drama, Burgundy, Ruby, Ballet) £32.50, www.sisley.paris.co.uk

This month we have fallen for CliniqueFit, a carefully curated line of athletic-inspired, high performance skin care and makeup that’s longwearing and designed to fit into an on-the-go lifestyle. Get that post-workout glow (without the workout), use mascara that won’t run when you’re on a run...or running around town, and skin care that helps you keep your cool, even as your day heats up. These game-changing products feel as comfortable as they look, stay in place while you move and go wherever the day takes you.

The range includes CliniqueFit Workout Makeup SPF 40, £29.50; Workout 24-Hour Mascara, £20; Post-Workout Mattifying Moisturizer, £26, Workout Face + Body Hydrating Spray, £13; Neutralizing Face Powder, £28; Lip + Cheek Flush, £20; Post-Workout Face + Body Cleansing Swipes, £16, Boots and Debenhams, Swansea

swansealife.co.uk 33

HAIR & BEAUTY

Invigorating Sleep inducing Not everyone wants a bath that will send them to sleep. If you love to jump in the tub first thing in the morning, you’ll want an energising aroma to wake you up. Oils infused with zingy citrus and fresh floral scents will set you up for the day.

Tropic Skincare Awaken the Senses Bath Soak, £38, www.tropicskincare.com

Struggling to get your requisite seven hours of slumber? Look for bath products that contain lavender (proven to help you drift off) and sweet scents like tonka bean and almond oil. Lie back and breathe in the fragrant fumes before bed to ensure a restful night’s sleep.

Floris Lime Bath Essence, £55, John Lewis, Cardiff

The Big Sleep Jelly Bath Bomb, £4.95 each, Lush, Swansea

Elemis Life Elixirs Sleep Bath & Shower Oil, £55, Monks at Machynys, Llanelli

the perfect soak From the calming to the energising, these are the aromatic additions that will take you to bath heaven...perfect for a relaxing Valentine’s soak laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Muscle Stress relaxing relieving Aromatherapy Associates De-Stress Muscle Bath and Shower Oil, £47, John Lewis, Cardiff

Persistent aches and pains can feel so much worse when it’s cold out, but a warm bath can make all the difference. Boost the healing powers of hot water with bath salts that contain arnica, a natural muscle and joint reliever, or massage your sore spots for a few minutes with oil, then hop into the bath to let the scent disperse.

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10 Kneipp Joint & Muscle Arnica Bath Crystals, £8.95, Holland & Barrett, Swansea

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34 swansealife.co.uk

Espa Soothing Bath Oil, £30, John Lewis, Cardiff

Reach for a luxurious oil packed with essential oils that will calm even the most stressed-out mind. A blend of floral and citrus notes will evoke sunnier days and brighten your mood.

Tisserand De-Stress Bath Oil, £10.95, Morrisons, Parc Pemberton 11

HAIRDRESSING DESIGNED FOR YOU

BOOK TODAY: SWANSEA - 01792 587444 SKEWEN - 01792 812858 www.hairloungebymarcisaac.co.uk

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 Chris Howells, gives a Swansea woman a new look.

WHO IS CHRIS HOWELLS? Chris is an International make-up artist who lives in Swansea. He has worked as a make-up artist for more than 15 years, working with a number of prestigious beauty brands including Laura Mercier.

He was trained by and worked for the iconic Laura Mercier herself, which has led to him travelling to some of the most prestigious beauty cathedrals and fashion shows around the globe. Chris won Welsh Make Up Artist of the Year 2016 in the National Federation of Hairdressing’s (NFH) annual and prestigious Welsh Hairdressing and Beauty Awards. .

MEET SARAH...

This month’s makeover is Sarah, a consultant. With the seasons changing she asked me to help with her skincare regime and show her how to achieve a glamorous look that she can replicate for a romantic date night with her husband.

Before...

Sarah’s skin is normal to dry but can be temperamental and prone to the occasional breakout. I started with a mist of Deciem Hylamide Moisture Mist to infuse extra moisture into the skin, then applied four to five drops of Nuxe Huille Prodigieuse oil. This incredible nourishing oil really feeds the skin and leaves no residue. I then used a dab of Rodial Bee Venom Moisture Crème and applied it to the orbital bone. You only need a grain of rice size amount of cream - it is more than enough for both eyes. By following this routine daily, you will see the skin become more even and rebalanced and will make you feel more youthful and comfortable.

I started the make up with Cover FX Illuminating Primer, which creates a great canvas and leaves skin glowing. The foundation I chose was Total Cover cream foundation by Cover FX. It’s a treatment foundation that you apply lightly with a soft stippling brush. Then I finished with a beauty blender. I used Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage under the eye area before setting the eye area with Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder, for an airbrushed finish.

For a gentle contour I used Illamasqua gel sculpt, this is the easiest, most natural contour I have ever used. I applied this under the cheekbones, around the hairline and

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WIN

Your very own make over with Chris!

All you need to do is send your details, along with a picture of yourself, to laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

temples, to the sides of the nose and my little secret, a small shadow under the bottom lip for a fuller pout! A soft pink crème blush was applied to the apples of the cheeks and the whole thing set with translucent powder.

For a soft smokey look I used a soft gold and a rich brown colour, I used By Terry crème eyeshadow sticks on the whole lid up to the crease, concentrating the rich brown around the lash line. I used a black crème liner and a flat liner brush to line into the base of the upper lashes and a soft flick to the upper lid. I sweeped a kohl pencil in copper into the bottom lash line it helps add dimension without closing the eye. Deep black mascara helps create more drama and enhances Sarah’s eye colour. I used Hourglass brow sculpt pencil to define Sarah’s brows and I added a little soft bronzer to the high points of her face to create a little more warmth. Using a skin tone colour highlight, I applied a sweep to the apples of the cheeks, brow bone cupids bow and tip of Sarah’s nose.

To finish I used, Chanel Rouge Coco Lipstick in Arthur with a dab of MAC Vamplify lip lacquer to the centre of the lip. I’m sure you’ll agree the finished look is elegant, sophisticated and above all glamorous.

After...

swansealife.co.uk swansealife.co.uk 37?

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

We love BareMinerals’ BarePro Performance Wear Liquid Foundation, a liquid foundation, which delivers sublime coverage while still looking natural - and genuinely stays put all day.

BEST GADGET:

A gadget that sucks your hair into a hot ceramic cylinder to create curls - sounds like a disaster waiting to happen, doesn’t it? But that couldn’t be further from the truth. The Babyliss Smooth And Wave is so quick and easy to use, it’ll have you ditching your curling wand after one go.

Babyliss Smooth And Wave, £129.99, Argos, Swansea and Llanelli

AWARD S SPECI AL

THIS MONTH

WE LOVE BareMinerals BarePro Performance Wear Liquid Foundation, £29, Debenhams, Swansea

As we are in the middle of awards season, LAURA DAVIES rounds up some of her top products of the year which range from make-up masks, skincare to scents.

BEST LIPSTICK:

It’s not always the most expensive make-up that performs the best, as proven by the Bourjois Rouge Velvet lipstick range. Killer pigment, a feather-light formula and major staying power, all for less than a tenner. We want every shade!

Bourjois Rouge Velvet Lipstick in Rubi’s Cute, £8.99, Superdrug, Swansea

BEST MOISTURISER

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Chanel Gabrielle Eau de Parfum, £79 for 50ml, The Perfume Shop, Swansea

Yope Fig Tree Natural Liquid Soap, £5.89, Nature’s Health Box, natureshealthbox.co.uk

BEST FOUNDATION

HAIR & BEAUTY

BEST SOAP:

New brand Yope produces dispenser soaps that are almost as aesthetically pleasing as cult brand Aesop’s, but at less than £6 a pop, they’re a lot cheaper - and the unusual scent combinations are lovely. Pop one in your bathroom and wait for the compliments to flood in.

@LawsDx

BEST FACE MASK:

This Aussie import had a waiting list of thousands prior to its UK launch, as fans clamoured to get their hands on the mask that promised instantly brighter skin. It really delivers and the mattifying effect is amazing, especially if you’ve got oily skin.

Sand & Sky Brilliant Skin Purifying Pink Clay Mask, £39.90, www.beautybay.com While we have seen a move away from the term ‘anti-ageing’ (which we fully support), plump and glowy skin is still on most people’s wishlists, and to get that, it’s all about protecting and boosting collagen. Enter Eucerin’s Elasticity+ Filler, which is uses a pair of innovative ingredients, Arctiin and Silymarin, to do just that, in a gorgeously rich night cream.

Eucerin Elasticity+ Filler Night Cream, £26, Boots, Swansea

BEST FRAGRANCE:

Could the first major new perfume from Chanel in 15 years possibly live up to expectations? Yes it could, we discovered it last September, when Gabrielle - an exceptionally elegant white floral composition, wafted into the world - and our hearts.

BEST HAIR PRODUCT: It’s not easy to choose one winner from hair legend Sam McKnight’s virtually faultless first product range, but choose we must, and the award goes to Modern Hairspray, a does-it-all spritz that gives invisible hold whether your locks are up, down, wavy or straight.

Hair by Sam McKnight Modern Hairspray, £22, CultBeauty.co.uk

swansealife.co.uk 39

HAIR & BEAUTY

winter-proof your hair

Whilst many people are already aware of how intense sun can damage hair during the summer, the cold temperatures and gusty winds of winter are just as detrimental to our locks. LAURA DAVIES looks at ten top tips to tame your tresses and avoid unsightly, brittle locks as the cold weather sets in. laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Avoid ponytails Wearing your hair down as much as possible will prevent the additional breakage that using a bobble creates. If you do go for a ponytail, make sure you wear it at slightly different heights each day to avoid too much pressure in one area.

Cover up Throw on a hat to save your hair during the cold winter months. Not only will it save you time in the mornings but it will also protect your hair from icy winds.

Avoid hot showers It can be tempting to whack your shower temperature up full blast when it’s near below freezing outside, but this will damage your scalp, leave it flaky and also strip your skin of much-needed moisture. Instead, keep showers and baths to ten minutes and keep the water mid-to-lukewarm.

Eat well Eating foods that are rich in natural oils, minerals, and vitamins will help to give your body everything you may need to keep your hair looking healthier, as well as for your own general well-being during winter. Making sure your diet includes plenty of Vitamin C, A, E, as well as iron and selenium, which can be found in a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, nuts and cereals will help boost your immune system and damage repair that can occur to your hair.

DIY avocado mask When blended with a nourishing oil, avocado is a fantastic ingredient that adds nutrients to the hair, making the ends less frazzled and hair shinier. Run this through the ends but avoid the roots as much as possible to avoid greasy looking hair.

40 swansealife.co.uk

@LawsDx

Invest in a humidifier Chances are you’ll have the heating on full blast at home, which will suck out any remaining moisture in the air. Invest in a humidifier and have it on at night to stop your hair and skin drying out.

Use vitamin E Harsh winds can cause split ends, so try rubbing vitamin E on the tips of your hair to replenish them. Some say massaging this miracle oil onto your scalp can make hair grow fast too.

Keep washing your hair to a minimum If you can, try and limit yourself to washing your hair just two or three times a week to prevent it from drying out in the cold. This will minimise the amount of heat styling you do as well, which can have double its effect in the cold.

Opt for a sulphate free shampoo Sulphate is a common ingredient in shampoo but can cause problems for damaged hair, as it strips beneficial oils. Minimise additional frizz by avoiding this ingredient as much as possible. You should also find a shampoo that’s designed to be used in the winter months, and avoid those which contain lots of additional chemicals and alcohol. Shampoos that contain shea butter and lots of natural essential oils such as ylang-ylang, bergamot and lemongrass help to open the hair cuticle so moisture can be more easily absorbed.

Use a thick, rich and moisturising conditioner One way of keeping your hair and scalp moisturised is to treat your hair once or twice a week with a thick, rich and moisturising conditioner that contain fatty acids and humectants, such as soy protein and panthenol. These ingredients help attract and retain moisture in the hair, which is great for glossy, soft locks.

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HOliSTiC THeraPy MaSSage

massage therapy helps us to relax and can help ease aches and pains. it helps trigger the release of the body’s natural painkillers and gives a general sense of contentment. We provide four types of massage therapy at the sun lounge: Hot stone Therapy, aroma Therapy, swedish massage and Deep Tissue massage.

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nOne SurgiCal FaCeliFT

a chemical peel is a technique

Thermotherapy (warming the skin/ opens pores), microdermabrasion to clear out pores. treat fine lines, ultra sound, bio - life to tone & film facial contours, leD light therapy to boost collagen, and finished with cryotherapy to close the pores and lock in products.

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.

We Care aBOuT yOur HealTH. geT in TOuCH TOday FOr PriCe liST. giFT vOuCHerS nOW availaBle Tel: 01792 775558 52 Woodfield street, morriston, swansea sa6 8bW Health & Beauty Opening times - Monday - Friday 9am - 9pm Saturday 9am - 5pm www.swanseasunlounge.co.uk

L ve your skin...

HAIR & BEAUTY

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ith t, w os d up bo roun S’ asks m

Give you r LAURA D face a A of fa VIE ce

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@LawsDx

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1. For quick and easy results: Bobbi Brown Radiance Boost, £33, Debenhams, Swansea 2. For anti-ageing: Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Mask, £49.50, Monks Spa at Machynys, Llanelli 3. For Firming: GlamGlow Gravitymud Firming Treatment, £39, Boots, Swansea and Parc Fforestfach 4. For brightening: Frank Body Glow Mask, £16, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff 5. For stress relief: Manuka Doctor Overnight Lavender Mask, £17.49, manukadoctor.co.uk 6. For your face and body: Cup O’ Coffee Face and Body Mask, £7.25, Lush, Swansea 7. For sensitive skin: REN Evercalm Ultra Comforting Rescue Mask, £28, REN Skincare, £12, M&S, Swansea 8. For tired skin: Kiehl’s Tumeric and Cranberry Seed Energizing Radiance Masque, £29, Debenhams, Swansea 9. For moisturising: Caudalie Moisturising Mask, £20.90, Escentual.com 10. For deep cleansing: Seaweed Oil Balancing Clay Mask, £11, The Body Shop, Swansea 11. For unclogging pores: Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask, £25, John Lewis, Cardiff 12. For very dry skin: Payot Hydra 24+ Baume-En-Masque, £28, Escentual.com

swansealife.co.uk 41

IS YOUR CHILD INELIGIBLE FOR ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT, OR ARE YOU TIRED OF WAITING? WE CAN HELP, WITH CHILDREN'S PRIVATE SPECIALIST ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT FROM UNDER £10 PER MONTH*.

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HAIR & BEAUTY

Makeover!

W ITH

L ARA

JOHNSON

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

Colour statement Model: Sara Berger Occupation: Model and musician

SARA SAYS: I have worn my hair short for a long time but really fancied a change for the New Year. I usually wear it spiky with lots of product. I love what the team have done. I wanted the cut to have more direction and a distinct style. I’m a big fan of the Sixties trend so I am loving this Pixie look. It’s shorter but it seems so much more versatile than it was before.

It’s really easy to style and I don’t need much product. The colour is a great change, so much softer than it was before and it looks so healthy.

LARA JOHNSON LIFESTYLE SAYS...

The New Year is often a time for a change and a chance to be adventurous with your look. If short hair is cut to work with the texture, head and face shape it can be surprisingly versatile.

With the right products the look can be transformed. We took the hair in tighter but softened the look by leaving some softness around the perimeter whilst creating a heavier shape around the fringe. It was then about creating shine and texture with some ‘on trend’ muted colours. This coming season we will see some sixties shapes returning with plenty of the Purdey, Page Boy and Pixie cuts.

44 swansealife.co.uk

After...

Before...

Step by step...

The Styled Sweep Inspired by the catwalk, this style is assertive and chic. It’s perfect for mid length styles or bobs with length through the front

1

Difficulty level: Medium Ideal hair length: Mid length. The hair needs to be long enough to be tied at the back of the head Assistance needed: With a little practice, no.

What you need: • Brush • Strong hairband • Grips • Hairspray • Gel

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Straighten your hair as this style looks best when its sleek

2

Brush the sides back and secure into a ponytail with a strong band to help the hair stay in the same direction use some spray.

When it is secure, apply some hair gel for hold. Make sure the top section is clean as it makes the style much stronger

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To stop the base of the ponytail from sticking out, grip the hair against the scalp. This is especially helpful if your hair is shorter

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Back comb the top section to give it height and a strong foundation

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Start at the back and work in sections of about a centimetre until the full top section has been back combed

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Smooth the top section back and spray with a strong hold hairspray. Secure the section into the ponytail base with a grip or pin

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swansealife.co.uk 45

HAIR & BEAUTY

best

adult-acne treatments

If you’re still suffering from blemish-prone skin as an adult, you’re not alone. It’s a problem more common than you think with twice as many women seeking help for their acne than men LAURA DAVIES looks at some of the best products available. laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

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Target blemish prone skin with Skin Republic Spots and Blemish Mask.

Containing Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil, Centella Asiatica and Witch Hazel, this face mask is one of the most effective treatments for controlling problem skin. With its active ingredients, the mask helps cleanse the skin’s pores and aids in the prevention of future breakouts whilst simultaneously tightening pores and stabilising the barrier function of the skin helping to fight spot causing bacteria. It works to remove excess oil, control shine and reduce redness without over drying the skin, leaving you with a clean and clear complexion.

Skin Republic Spots and Blemish Anti-Spot and Pore Refining Mask, £4.99, Superdrug, Swansea

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The ApiClear Facial Moisturising Lotion is nourishing and quickly absorbed, it feels instantly refreshing for skin and cleverly balances the perfect amount of oil and moisture for skin. This blemish tackling Facial Lotion features Purified Bee Venom (PBV) to fight blemishes. Purified Bee Venom has proven anti-bacterial and antiinflammatory properties. Experience the refreshing and cleansing properties of Papaya Extract while the Manuka Honey hydrates your skin.

Manuka Doctor ApiClear Facial Moisturising Lotion, £17.99, Holland and Barrett, Swansea

@LawsDx

3

High in Vitamins A and C, this oil is cold-pressed from the seeds of the rosehip plant and functions like a natural retinol, fading dark spots and boosting brightness without irritating the skin. Rosehip seed oil is a particularly effective treatment for acne scarring. The antioxidants fade existing scars, while linoleic acid (an antiinflammatory and anti-microbial acid) keeps new breakouts at bay.

Trilogy Rosehip Oil Light Blend, £31.50, John Lewis, Cardiff

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Stop spots in their tracks with Weleda Aknedoron Purifying lotion - an intensive spot treatment lotion which works as part of the Aknedoron two-step system for problem skin. This special combination calms irritation and stimulates skin, restoring blood flow to regulate problem skin whilst restoring its natural beauty. Harnesses the natural power of witch hazel, thyme and calendula to soothe irritated skin.

Weleda Aknedoron Purifying Lotion, £9.95, Lloyds Pharmacy , Gorseinon

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Dermatologically-tested and specifically formulated to target spots, blemishes and breakouts.

Boasting a rich concentration of natural AHAs (Fruit Acids) and Salicylic Acid, this provides rapidly effective results including an increased rate of skin cell

renewal. When applied to affected areas, this gel can help to leave the skin clearer, calmer, softened and revitalised.

Dr Organic Skin Clear Treatment Gel, £5.99, Holland and Barrett, Swansea

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A nemesis of breakouts, DermaQuest’s clarifying pads help remove impurities and excess oil from your skin, and can be used on more than just the face.

Fortified with Salicylic Acid,which penetrates the skin to reduce impactions and clogged pores, the pads are an effortless way to refresh and cleanse anywhere, anytime. Banish breakouts and temper acne with these cooling, exfoliating pads.

DermaQuest DermaClear Pads, £30.50, Harleymedical.co.uk

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The award winning formula harnesses the naturally soothing properties of Witch Hazel for healthy looking skin. The Witch Blemish Stick gets to work instantly, targeting blemishes by helping break down excess oils and fighting the bacteria that cause spots, making it the perfect partner for blemish-prone complexions.

Witch Blemish Stick, £3.19, Boots, Sainsbury’s, Superdrug, Swansea, Tesco and Asda, Llansamlet and Llanelli

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1 42 swansealife.co.uk

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D O YO U WA N T STRAIGHTER TEETH? LEAVE IT TO THE PROFESSIONALS, WITH SPECIALIST ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT FROM £27.30 PER MONTH*

DENTAL IMPLANTS • 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 *Finance 9.9% APR over 5 yrs subject to approval, terms and conditions.

FO O D B E N E F ITS

moringa Bursting with antioxidants, protein and all nine essential amino acids, moringa is finally getting the attention it deserves. LAURA DAVIES looks at the latest superfood trend that could be the newest foodie fad. laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

What is it?

Good for digestion

Moringa is a tree that grows in dry climates across Africa and Asia. It’s also known as the drumstick tree for its shape, or the horseradish tree for the taste of its roots, and thousands of the plants are scattered across the foothills of the himalayas. Its pods, bark and even twigs have been cooked and eaten for centuries, but the powder, made by grinding its leaves, is what’s started sending health addicts into a frenzy.

Moringa is a rich source of calcium which helps with the digestion process which contributes to the normal function of digestive enzymes.

Brands and food bloggers have been using it in smoothies and salads, and its use in beauty products is on the rise.

Rich in protein

Good for your bones Moringa leaves are a rich source of vitamin k and calcium which help promote bones

It’s unusually rich in protein - in fact, it contains all nine of the essential amino acids. It packs more protein than virtually any other plant-based product, and is richer in amino acids than whey protein, so is increasingly being incorporated into fitness regimes.

High in iron If you find yourself low on energy during the day, moringa’s high iron levels might be what you need. In traditional medicine, moringa is used to treat ‘tired blood’ and a lack of energy, a result of its high iron content. Lack of iron in the diet reduces the body’s capacity to make red blood cells and is a very common nutritional problem. In fact, one in four women in the uk have been found to have low iron levels, and tiredness and lethargy are common consequences.

High in fibre Moringa can help support a healthy digestive system and bowel regularity. Fibre can also be helpful for weight management as it helps you feel fuller for longer and supports a healthy metabolism.

48 swansealife.co.uk

Helps promote good eye vision Moringa is a source of vitamin a which contributes to normal vision.

Good for diabetics Moringa is a successful way to treat diabetes and is proven to decrease blood glucose levels. Research has shown that those eating a diet rich in plant proteins can help to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes

Helps your immune system One of the best moringa benefits is its super immune-boosting powers. Maintaining a healthy immune system is essential for helping our bodies stave off infections and illnesses.

Reduces tireness Moringa is also bursting with vitamins. It contains good levels of thiamin, which helps with the release of energy

Keeps skin healthy Moringa is jam-packed with skin-loving vitamins including Vitamin A, which is essential for healthy, radiant skin and also vitamin e, which protects cells from oxidative stress and helps fight the signs of ageing. Moringa also has one of the highest antioxidant contents of any food which is essential for protecting, repairing and preventing cell damage and minimising the ageing process of the skin in the long-term. They help counteract oxidative stress and the effects of free radicals - unstable molecules that damage collagen causing skin dryness, fine lines, wrinkles and premature ageing.

What does it taste like?

When it comes to taste, unlike other green superfoods, it doesn’t have a strong, overpowering taste.

Its subtle, slightly spicy flavour is reminiscent of spinach, making it a natural addition to smoothies and juices - which explains why so many brands are jumping on it.

So how can you get moringa into your diet? Organic brand Birt & Tang have a moringa leaf tea (£3.49 For 50 bags, Holland and Barrett, Swansea) which makes for a great evening cuppa. Or, if you want an energy boost at the start of your day, get your hands on some moringa powder and sprinkle it into your smoothie blender with whichever fruits you fancy.

[

Foodies are experimenting with moringa increasingly too. Why not make your own moringa latte, using the powder stirred through coconut milk, with a little raw honey? Or sprinkle some moringa into your oats and cook up healthy moringa porridge for breakfast? You can even treat your sweet tooth with moringa and cocoa chocolate-chip cookies.

It’s versatile, tasty, and jam-packed with vitamins and amino acids, and nutritionists insist it will keep you feeling fresh throughout the day - the hype about moringa seems justified, so it might be time to jump on the bandwagon.

The Body Shop’s Moringa Hand Cream £5, is great if you want to really benefit from the plant’s skinhealing properties.

The Body Shop, Swansea

[

The newest superfood you should know about

swansealife.co.uk 49

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

ASK

DR. CHARLOTTE

“MY HEART WILL GO ON…” Coining a popular line in the Celine Dion song for Valentine’s Day, lets focus on healthy hearts.

Cardiovascular disease is conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels with the main ones being coronary heart disease, strokes and peripheral vascular disease.

It is the highest cause of death in the UK and affects around 375,000 patients in Wales causing over 9,000 deaths per year.

Therefore it makes sense to think about how we can keep our heart healthy.

This month Sketty GP and Swansea Life doctor Charlotte Jones, focusses on keeping your heart healthy.

52 swansealife.co.uk

SO WHAT CAN WE ALL DO TO KEEP OUR HEART TICKING OVER NICELY? 1. STOP SMOKING – if you smoke, this is the biggest thing you can tackle to reduce your risk of heart disease. Your pharmacist can help with various free nicotine replacement therapies and you can also have lots of supportive advice at Ash Cymru so PLEASE make this your no1 priority. You will significantly reduce your risk of heart disease by giving up and after a year of stopping, your risk will be the same as nonsmokers the same age as you.

2. EXERCISE – I know how daunting it can be to start exercising if you are relatively sedentary. Start slowly and build up gradually e.g. go for walks along our beautiful promenade or enjoy the scenery in some of our wonderful parks. There are also plenty of programmes available to help you exercise from walking to more strenuous cardiovascular exercise – many of these are available free of charge on websites OR you could borrow a DVD from a library or buy whatever type of exercise appeals to you OR ask your practice if you can be referred to an exercise programme (this isn’t available to all but many people who have, or at high risk of developing heart disease will meet the criteria).

Experts often recommend doing 150 minutes of moderately strenuous aerobic exercise / week to reduce your cholesterol and boost your fitness levels.

3. EAT HEALTHILY – It’s not rocket science but the main focus should be on reducing saturated fats, reducing salt and increasing fibre (as well as being good for you it can reduce your cholesterol). We all know that cholesterol can cause furring up of the heart arteries but equally some cholesterol is benefit for building cells and for making some hormones and vitamin D – it is getting the right balance between saturated and non saturated fats that is key. There are plenty of advice sources on line but two of my favourites are: www.heartuk.org.uk and www.bhf.org.uk

4. REDUCE ALCOHOL – whilst one small 125ml glass of red wine is felt to be of some benefit to the heart, drinking large quantities can not only increase your weight but also can have other deleterious effects on your heart. Limit your intake to the recommended weekly limits 5. LOSE WEIGHT - I am sure no further explanation or signposting to useful resources is needed and nobody is under estimating the challenge, but it may happen naturally by following all these healthy lifestyle points 6. KEEP STRESS UNDER CONTROL – busy lifestyles means this can be tricky to do and many find some stress keeps them motivated. However, sustained significant stress has been shown to be a factor in developing cardiovascular disease.

If you are struggling with stress there is lots of support out there to help you including: 1. Websites (NHS choices and The Stress Management Society) are particularly good 2. Self help books – you can find a plethora in the library or your GP can prescribe a book from a list compiled by experts which you take to the library for an extended loan period 3. Attend a stress and wellbeing control course – ABMU Health Board run these regularly – Google ABMU Living Life Well for a list of resources or contact 07967 612246 4. Relaxation DVDs available to hire in libraries and there are many useful free apps to download to your phone 5. Your GP can help if these don’t help or aren’t right for you HOW DO DOCTORS ASSESS SOMEBODY’S RISK? Doctors can use a risk assessment calculator to assess risk e.g QRISK 2 score. This combines a number of known risk factors based on your lifestyle, age and other measurements (e.g. height, weight, BP, cholesterol results) and then gives you a percentage risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease and complications over 10 years.

Many of the risk factors are correctable as you can see from the advice above but some aren’t and are solely due to your age / other illnesses / ethnicity / family history etc.

Your doctor can discuss this with you and advise on whether diet and lifestyle changes alone can reduce your risk or if you need further tests and / or medication.

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

10

dieting mistakes to skip in 2018

Did you you fall off the diet wagon before the end of January?

If you want to achieve sustainable and healthy weight loss this year all-round, try to avoid being sucked into FAD diets and other speedy but unhealthy weight loss tricks. LAURA DAVIES looks at the top dieting mistakes that we need to avoid laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

1. Treats are a no-go all the time If you say you are going to lose X amount of weight and cut out all your treats including coffee then you can be setting yourself up to fail. You need to embark on a sustainable eating plan that includes a treat meal. Giving up coffee is not always necessary unless you are sensitive to caffeine, but cutting down is a good idea.

2. Little sleep is the norm People who are sleep deprived have an increased appetite. Inadequate sleep lowers levels of leptin, a hormone that suppresses appetite, and increases grehlin, a hormone that increases food intake and is thought to play a role in the long-term regulation of body weight. All this suggests that sleep deprivation can make weight loss extremely difficult because it causes your body to work against you!

3. You’re fixated on calories Calorie counting is a common mistake people make! It’s just not that simple as sugar calories cause fat storage and spikes hunger, while calories from fat and protein promote fat burning. What counts more is the quality, not the quantity of the calories.

4. Leftovers from the night before are a common occurrence If the night before you had oven-cooked salmon with herbs and a green salad, then having the leftovers for breakfast is not a bad idea… but if you indulged in pizza or fish and chips, then maybe rethink the dinner leftovers as a breakfast option. It is essential to start the day with energy and a clear mind to sustain activities throughout the day. Choose foods rich in fibre, antioxidants, and good protein and fats. A healthy and fulfilling option can be poached or scrambled eggs on a piece of whole grain bread and a freshly made green juice.

54 swansealife.co.uk

@LawsDx

5. DNA is ignored Rather than following what your friend or colleague recommends, find out what works for your body. Everyone is different.

Try getting a plan that is tailored to you.

6. You opt for sugary snacks before a work out To give yourself enough energy to work out – and to enjoy it – base your diet on foods that release their energy slowly and steadily.

We’re talking mainly about whole foods such as vegetables, whole grains, meat, eggs and fish, nuts and seeds. The opposite – processed foods, high-sugar snacks or sugary drinks – will give you an initial burst of energy followed by a slump that can leave you feeling drained. Not ideal in the middle of a workout!

7. You focus too much on what weight other people are losing Weight loss can affect people differently; so try not to be disheartened if you feel that other people are losing weight more speedily than you are. Weight loss depends on a number of things especially the medical conditions of the client. The Metabolic Balance blood tests show a number of out of range markers such as C Reactive Protein (which is an inflammatory marker), liver enzymes and thyroid, which may take the client longer to get to the fat-burning stage. This is when the body starts to burn fat for fuel, when this process occurs then the weight loss really happen.

8. Protein, what protein?

It’s important to perk yourself up with protein at breakfast. Protein-rich foods are more satiating than carbohydrate-rich foods – in other words, they can fill you up more quickly and for longer. They seem to do this by slowing down the emptying of the stomach, and by reducing the release of hormones such as ghrelin that stimulate appetite. The result is that you’re likely to eat less over the course of the day, making it easier to control your weight. To ensure you’re getting your daily dose of protein,

try a plant based protein powder. They are easy to digest and can be low-calorie. They can be used to make smoothies or shakes, and can be added to savoury foods such as stews and soups.

9. You opt for a FAD diets FAD diets are not sustainable. It is important that the client learns how to prepare simple meals and what to choose on menus or the weight will just go back on. It has to be a lifestyle change.

Starving yourself for example on juice diet can cause your body to go into shock, thinking that it is in starvation mode. This can cause the body to store fat, so after the FAD diet is over you can put on even more weight than before.

10. Gut bacteria – what’s that?

Our stomach is made up of good and bad bacteria, called gut flora, which has a controlling influence over many important body functions, including metabolism and fat reduction. However, our lifestyle habits (taking antibiotics, diet high in sugar, stress, alcohol) damage our gut bacteria. So how can we balance it? A healthy gut is made by limiting the bad bacteria and encouraging the good one to grow. Feed the good bacteria with fibrous foods and plenty of probiotics, which you can find in fermented foods (Kombucha tea, sauerkraut, yogurt, kefir and apple cider vinegar are all examples of probiotic-rich superfoods that help to balance your gut flora) or include a supplement in your diet.

5

HEALTH & WELLBEING

LAURA DAVIES picks out some of the best workout apps to optimise your fitness routine, track your success and help you smash your goals. No gym membership? No problem.

OF THE BEST...

FITNESS APPS

1

NIKE TRAINING CLUB

4

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

POCKET YOGA

Nike’s enviably chiselled trainers guide you through challenging workouts from yoga and strength training to boxing. One of its best features is its bespoke training plan tool: simply plug in your fitness goal and it will draw up a routine over a number of weeks, based on your personal schedule. Loaded with over 100 workouts, there’s a level of difficulty here that that anyone will find a challenge - whether you’re new to exercise or a stomach-crunching pro.

One of the best things about yoga apps is that you can reap the physical and mental benefits of the practice, even when you’re not in the studio. This illustrated app sets you a series of postures to stretch your way through and can be synced with your heart rate monitor to display a live counter of the calories you’ve burned off. If you’re a total beginner to yoga, there’s even a handy pose dictionary that can show you the correct way to hold each position.

■ FREE; NIKE.COM

■ £2.99; POCKETYOGA.COM

2

SWEAT WITH KAYLA

Instagram’s most famous female trainer, Kayla Itsines, gained masses of followers for transforming women’s bodies with her Bikini Guide Programme. Now she’s converted the cult guide into an app that promises to give you a summer-ready body in just three months. The 12-week programme sets daily 28-minute strength and cardio workouts that can easily be completed at home, alongside a virtual Kayla who visually guides you through each circuit.

You can also track your progress and whip up an impressive ‘before and after’ shot with a weekly photo journal function.

■ £14.99 PER MONTH; KAYLAITSINES.COM

3

7 MINUTE WORKOUT

For people who easily get bored of fitness, there’s 7 Minute Workout. This pocket rocket app packs in blistering, highintensity workouts that can be speedily completed anytime, anywhere. Each workout consists of only 12 exercises, each to be done for 30 seconds, with 10 second wheezing breaks between each exercise. All you need is a chair, a wall and a whole load of stamina.

5

8FIT

Press ups are all well and good but if you’re gorging on pizza and chips every night, your hard work is going to waste. That’s where 8Fit comes in. The app serves up exercise plans as well as daily meal suggestions for fuelling your workout with healthy and nutritious ingredients. There’s also a handy feature to filter out certain foods - so if you’re vegan, lactose intolerant or glutenfree, I’m afraid there’s no excuse.

■ FREE; 8FIT.COM

■ FREE; ITUNES.COM swansealife.co.uk 55

HEALTH & WELLBEING

E at y ou r way t o

LOVE this Val e nt in e’s

Chocolate Thank goodness we can eat some (dark) chocolate in the guise that it’ll enhance our sex lives! Simply nibbling a few squares of the ‘good stuff’ after dinner, you’ll help lift your mood enormously, going from stressed to, well...sexy! Go for quality (dark) chocolate (60-70 per cent cocoa solid) which contains the potential to relax you, intoxicate you and give you sheer pleasure, all thanks to a nutrient called phenethylamine. It does this by triggering those feel-good hormones; it provides us with tryptophan, which is a great relaxation chemical and it helps quell anxiety.

Tempt your taste buds with LAURA DAVIES’ top 10 foods to get you in the mood for love laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Asparagus Traditionally asparagus was thought to be an aphrodisiac for its ambiguous shape, but we know now that it is more due to the nutritional value.

Asparagus contains vitamin E that helps with sex hormone production by promoting testosterone in men and oestrogen in women. It is also rich in B12, B6 and folic acid that are thought to contribute to nitric oxide functions, which are essential in erectile dysfunction. These nutrients can also reduce stress and increase energy. Also, the amino acid asparagine in asparagus protects the urinary tract from infections, which is one of the main causes of a low sex drive.

Berries Try adding berries to your porridge, or opt for these as a snack to kick-start your libido this Valentines. Berries are rich in the mineral zinc, which is important for the production of sex hormones and are also high in antioxidants, which helps optimise blood flow to the sex organs

to

Avocados Aid your sex drive by adding half an avocado to your salad. Avocados are rich in folic acid and Vitamin B6, which are both needed for a healthy sex drive. Folic acid provides the body with a healthy energy boost and Vitamin B6, which stabilises the hormones. Avocados are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which naturally boosts your mood.

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Chilli and ginger Both chilli and ginger can contribute to good cardiovascular health and can increase blood flow around the body, including to the reproductive organs and erogenous areas. Ginger contains manganese, which is a trace mineral, found throughout the body and is essential to form and trigger the release of the sex hormone testosterone, which is vital for sex drive and sperm production. Chilli contains capsaicin, which can help to boost testosterone levels in men and women. Scientists have found that the men who’d doused their food in hot sauce had higher testosterone levels then their peers who’d gone for a milder heat… so let’s make it spicy!

Eggs Scrambled, poached or fried? However you choose to have your eggs, as they are protein rich they can give your energy and stamina a boost, which could help in the bedroom! Eggs are also a source for L-arginine, an amino acid that can aid in preventing erectile dysfunction.

Celery Celery contains androsterone and androsterol, two pheromones that are involved in triggering your sex drive. When you chew celery stalks the two pheromones travel from your mouth to your brain, which can increase your arousal.

Fish Fish such as wild salmon, sardines, herring and anchovies are all rich in omega-3, which is a multi-tasking hero. Not only does omega-3 help reduce irritability and reduce inflammation in the body, it also enhances your mood, helps balance your hormones, and aids the healthy production of sex hormones. It fights the build up of plaque in the arteries, thereby improving circulation and increasing sensation.

Omega-3 fatty acids also help with sexual response, raising dopamine levels in the brain that trigger arousal.

Spinach Add some extra greens to your meals with spinach. Spinach helps to increase the blood flow to the genitals, which can provide heightened arousal. So, spinach can be a great food to have before intercourse

Oysters

Oysters boost dopamine, a hormone that increases libido and zinc, which proliferates testosterone and sperm production. Some people also find the act of eating oysters quite erotic, so these could be the delicacy to get you in the mood.

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Voted

WALES’ BEST RESORT SPA 2017

at the World Spa Awards

SPRING ‘SPA’ TIME indulge at the Vale Resort

The Vale Resort offer a ‘5 Bubble Spa’ experience that will not disappoint.

SPA DAYS AND BREAKS n

Temple Spa Tuesday only £49pp*

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Wednesday Spa and Lunch only £65pp*

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Mother’s Day Pamper from £69pp*

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Sunday Lunch and Spa only £69pp*

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Pamper Spa Day from £79pp*

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Spa Breaks from £79pp*

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19 treatment rooms

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Five relaxation zones

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Three double suites

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20m pool, sauna and steam room

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Extensive leisure facilities

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FREE parking

Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY *Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability. Weekend supplement applies.

SL.01.18

01443 665888 | www.valeresort.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

THE VALE RESORT HITS THE RIGHT SPOT AS BEST SPA RESORT IN WALES The Vale Spa at the Vale Resort has been named Wales’ best resort spa by an international awards body that recognises excellence in tourism.

The spa at the four star hotel and leisure venue, in Hensol in the Vale of Glamorgan, was named Wales' Best Resort Spa 2017 at the 3rd annual World Spa Awards, held at the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, Vietnam.

It beat off competition from the Forum Spa at Celtic Manor and the Spa at Corran Resort to win the accolade.

Votes are cast by professionals working within the spa industry and by members of the public.

The ceremony was organised by the World Travel Awards, which describes itself as “the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence”. The win was the second of two World Travel Awards for the Vale

Resort, after it was named Wales’ Best Golf Hotel 2017 at the 4th annual World Golf Awards, held at La Manga Club, Spain.

The organisation holds various awards ceremonies to reward the best travel and leisure organisations in the world, which have been described by the Wall Street Journal as the ‘Oscars of the travel industry’.

The World Travel Awards previously recognised the Vale Spa as Wales’ Leading Spa Resort in 2006 and 2015.

Stephanie Metson, marketing manager at the Vale Resort, said: “The World Travel Awards is a prestigious global brand that is recognised as a benchmark of quality and excellence in the travel and tourism industry.

a testament to the hard work of all of our staff.

“The Vale Spa offers a unique and luxurious experience for customers that sets us apart from the competition and, as Wales’ largest spa, we have been fortunate to receive a number of industry awards over the years.”

The Vale Spa has 19 treatment rooms and six bespoke relaxation zones.

These include the ‘chill-out’ zone with leather sofas and magazines, the ‘float’ zone, with water beds and water feature, and the ‘slumber' zone, with low lighting and quilts. The resort’s spa and

leisure facilities also include a 20-metre pool, whirlpool bath, steam room and sauna.

The Vale Resort is also partnered with a host of luxury brands including Clarins, Temple Spa and Sundari – an Indian-inspired range of holistic Ayurvedic treatments.

Stephanie Metson said: “We pride ourselves on putting our customers at the heart of everything we do to ensure they have a memorable experience every time they visit.

“These awards will inspire us to maintain our high standards so we continue to excel.”

“To be named Wales’ Best Resort Spa 2017 against two strong competitors is an outstanding achievement and

SPA The Vale Spa has 19 treatment rooms and six bespoke relaxation zones. These include the ‘chill-out’ zone with leather sofas and magazines, the ‘float’ zone, with water beds and water feature, and the ‘slumber' zone, with low lighting and quilts. The resort’s spa and leisure facilities also include a 20-metre pool, whirlpool bath, steam room and sauna.

The Vale Resort is also partnered with a host of luxury brands including Clarins, Temple Spa and Sundari – an Indian-inspired range of holistic Ayurvedic treatments.

ABOUT THE VALE RESORT • In 1994, the family-owned retail company Leekes took ownership of the local golf club at Hensol. They proceeded to develop the club into the world-class Vale Resort set in over 650 acres of beautiful Welsh countryside.

• The Vale Resort, 3 miles off junction 34 of the M4, is six miles outside Cardiff City Centre and only 2 hours from London.

• The independent 4-star Vale Resort includes a 143-bedroom hotel, 13-suite conference facility, restaurants & champagne bar, award-winning golf courses, leisure and sports facilities, and a five-bubble spa.

HENSOL PARK | HENSOL | VALE OF GLAMORGAN | CF72 8JY | T: 01443 667800

BRIDE

Megan Griffiths & Gordon Legg Megan Griffiths, video reporter at the South Wales Evening Post, originally from Essex, married Gordon Legg, from Kenfig Hill the St. Catwg’s Church in Pentyrch, then on to Canada Lake and Lodge in Cardiff. LAURA DAVIES speaks to the bride.

How did the proposal happen?

We were away in Aberystwyth with Gordon’s family for his 30th birthday. We’d hired a cottage in the area but decided to go out for the day. We went and kicked the bar on the beach, an Aberystwyth tradition, and then went up Cosmeston Hill. The weather was unbelieveable for a weekend in late November - there wasn’t a cloud in the sky. I was off taking photos of the view and Gordon was trying to pull me away to be on our own.

When he got down on one knee I was in utter disbelief, I kept saying no! Gordon had always told me that he didn’t believe in marriage, so he really was playing the long game for the

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true element of surprise. When I finally said yes, he told me that my parents had come down from Essex and were in the cafe next to where we were. My mum came running out of the cafe in tears and we then went inside where he had ordered prosecco.

How would you describe your wedding theme?

I kept seeing these amazing bridesmaids’ dresses on Pinterest that were completely gold, and I just had to have them. The whole day was a gold theme. I spent the whole 11 months from engagement to wedding, like a magpie in shops, drawn to everything gold.

Tell us about your wedding dress...

There was quite a debate at the beginning of planning over whether we should get married in Essex or Wales. We eventually decided on Wales, as it’s where me and Gordon first met, and it’s where we have settled down.

So, I decided I would try and find my dress from Essex. I went to a shop called Bellisima in Chelmsford. The whole experience was amazing, the dressing rooms were huge for big dresses and they had a delay mirror on the wall so you could see the back of your dress.

I always had a clear idea in mind. I wanted something with a big train, fishtail shape with a straight neckline. But mainly, it was all about

what the back looked like. About a month before the wedding I tried on the dress and felt awful in it, as I had managed to lose a lot of weight. However, I found an amazing local seamstress who took the whole dress apart and put it all back together. She was a miracle worker.

and nail technician from Essex. She came and did my make-up on the morning and she made me feel totally at ease. I love the look she gave me on the day, I just wish I could do that myself.

Why did you choose the venue?

This was a huge element of our day. Video is a huge part of my job, so I knew I had to capture both still and moving images. Luckily, again I was able to pull in favours from friends. An excolleague, Johnny Mills shot the whole day and into the night, and I will be editing the footage.

Our photographer was Kate Adams - we were so lucky that she was free on our wedding date as I know she is in high demand. her style is beautiful epic shots with a light soft focus. The results were stunning, we are so pleased that we will have these snaps and clips to treasure forever. It just so happened that our wedding day had perfect weather, exactly the same as the day we got engaged. Not a cloud in the sky and a beautiful autumn sun, perfect for photography and video.

My husband knew of Canada Lake and Lodge as he had completed an electrical job there some years ago and it had always stuck in his mind.

The second we pulled up and I saw the lake - I knew I wanted to celebrate my wedding there.

The setting is just amazing and it’s stunning in the rain, wind, snow or sun. The fact the venue has two floors is a bonus - it meant that we could have welcome drinks upstairs whilst the breakfast was being set up downstairs and we could move seamlessly from one to the other.

Tell us about your wedding day beauty prep...

I’m not much of a girly girl but I am extremely pale so I did get a spray tan. It’s sort of the law for an Essex girl. I wear contact lenses so was struggling to think of what I could do about lashes, but I went two days before the wedding to Lashes By Emma in Cardiff and they were amazing. I didn’t have to worry about mascara running down my face during the ceremony as I didn’t have to wear any! I was extremely lucky that one of my close friends is a make-up artist

How important was photography and video to you?

How many bridesmaids did you have?

I had four and I think it was the perfect amount for me. I had my sister - Emily, my oldest and best friend Steph, my university best friend Lucy and my wonderful sister in law, Jess. My best friend Steph wrote one of the readings and read it out during the ceremony. It had me in bits, it was such a personal and beautiful moment.

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BRIDE

My sister then sang alongside my cousin, Eilidh during the signing of the register as she is a trained opera singer.

There were quite a few musical elements throughout the day wasn’t there?

Just a few yes! During the welcome drinks, my other cousin Calum sang and played guitar, then as a surprise just before we sat down for dinner, my sister and I got up and sang with him. My mum was handing out musical instruments to all our guests, so it was quite a surreal moment being in a wedding dress, surrounded by all the people we care about most in the world, shaking a maraca as we sung Sex Bomb by Tom Jones (it’s a family joke!)

I then sung again with the band in the evening as a surprise. No-one knew it was happening apart from the band and myself.

Did you have a first dance?

Our first dance was Unforgettable by Nat King Cole. We chose to have the original rather than it being played live, as you just can’t compete with the crooner himself. We picked our first dance before we even picked the venue. When we first went to look round Canada Lodge someone was singing our song as we walked in it was spooky.

Who made your cake?

What was your favourite part of the day?

I’m a bit of an amateur baker, and didn’t feel I would trust anyone else to make it, so I decided to make it myself the day before the wedding. I couldn’t recommend it, it was quite stressful and I didn’t have much time before the big day just to take a moment for myself, but I still don’t regret it. I made three tiers one chocolate flavour, one vanilla and one lemon. My mum helped by making 100 chocolate cupcakes as we were worried there wouldn’t be enough. We ended up with half the cake left and some cupcakes.

My mum’s freezer will be full of wedding cake for years to come.

Aside from marrying Gordon, I absolutely loved the speeches. I love them at any wedding. The speeches were so personal and funny and had me in tears of happiness and laughter. We also decided to run a book on the length of all the speeches. Everyone gave a pound to my brother in law, James and made a guess of the time. I think the winner won around £70, but it was a great way to break the ice during the welcome drinks.

Was that the only thing you made?

The idea when we were first planning the wedding was to try and cut costs where we could and anything we could do ourselves to a good enough standard, we would. So I made all the invites, save the dates, favours, decorations and other personal touches. We wanted it to feel like every element had been thought about for our guests, so at the church, I’d made miniature tissue boxes for each seat, then for the evening there was also a blanket box that guests could raid when they wanted to sit by the fires on the decking and flip flops for aching feet. I also made some toiletry boxes for each of the bathrooms complete with tissues, plasters, Paracetemol and of course glow sticks.

What about the band?

The band were incredible. They were called House of Chords and came down from Birmingham. They are a full time wedding band so really know their stuff. I spent an hour on the phone with Michael from the band a few weeks before the wedding to go through set ideas.

They also DJ’d between their sets, and there were songs that I had requested that they play on their breaks that they had actually learnt how to play. I spent the whole night dancing, barely leaving the dancefloor. They read the room so well and knew exactly when to play absolute corkers.

Where did you honeymoon?

We were really rubbish and completely forgot to book a honeymoon until two weeks before we were due to leave. We just couldn’t decide on the perfect honeymoon location and put a lot of pressure on ourselves. Eventually we managed to get a last minute deal to Mexico and saved a bit of money. The place where we stayed had the most incredible beaches and food. It took us about the first week to wind down before we could relax properly, but we’d both go back in a heartbeat.

Church: St. Catwg’s, Pentyrch Venue: Canada Lake and Lodge Photographs: Kate Adams Photography Video: Jonny Mills Hair: House of Hair (Alys Williams) Make Up: Valencia Beauty (Annie Valencia-Collins) Band: House of Chords Florist: The Dancing Daffodil, Port Talbot Cars: Executive Cars Wales Catering: Spiros Lashes: Lashes By Emma Candy cart and magic photo mirror: Dazzlevents

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Bespoke Wedding Packages Available

for 2018 and 2019 Winter Weddings from ÂŁ2,999 Looking for the perfect setting for your wedding day?

Look no further than The Cliff Hotel & Spa in West Wales. Recently renovated to include an exclusive wedding suite, inclusive of ballroom to fit up to 160 guests (up to 250 for evening) exclusive use bar and your own terrace area.

All areas of the wedding suite maximises the panoramic sea views of Cardigan Bay. Please contact our wedding coordinator Louise Jones on weddings@cliffhotel.com for more details or to arrange a meeting.

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

BRIDE

PETAL POWER Make sure your flowers are blooming on your wedding day with LAURA DAVIES’ petal picks laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

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1. Wedding Flowers By Shelley, Sandyhill, Pembrokeshire | 2. Francis Floral Designs, Ystradgynlais, www.francisfloraldesigns.co.uk 3. Garden of Eden, www.gardenofedenflowers.co.uk | 4. Garden of Eden, www.gardenofedenflowers.co.uk 5. Barrie Hughes Florist, Kidwelly, www.barriehughesflorist.co.uk | 6. Rosebowl Florist, Hendy, www.rosebowl-florist.co.uk 7. Garden of Eden, www.gardenofedenflowers.co.uk | 8. Francis Floral Designs, Ystradgynlais, www.francisfloraldesigns.co.uk 9. Blooming Belles, Pontarddulais | 10. Black Orchid, Swansea 64 swansealife.co.uk

w o n k Boo 18 0 for 2 9 1 & 20

With its opulent surroundings The Orangery will provide you with a truly magical setting for the celebration of your marriage. It is the perfect wedding venue in Wales.

Our team can provide you with the guidance and experience to assist you in your special day, from the initial discussions right through to saying farewell to your wedding guests.

at Margam Country Park For all your wedding requirements please contact our events team on

01639 883553 | orangery@npt.gov.uk | www.margamorangery.com

Want to add some extra pizzazz to your wedding?

You’ve come to the right place. We are an Award Winning company, offering a premium service to the whole of the UK. We specialise in making your wedding fun and memorable.

Magic Mirrors

NEW FOR 2018 Beauty Dish 5 reasons you should choose Ultrabooth • Voted best service provider in Wales 5 years running • 500 plus 5 star reviews on Facebook • Trusted service provider for many of the best venues • 15 years experience in the entertainment industry • 100% reliable with on-call event support Services • Photo booth hire • Marryoke videos • Frozen Yogurt cart • Event Photography • Professional DJ services • Light up letters & Signs • Starlight Dance floors & Backdrops

NEW FOR 2018 Rustic Letters & Lightbox

Photobooth hire & Marryoke • A host of themes & designs to choose from • Choose your song & we will do the rest

Wedding Entertainment & Props

Wedding Entertainment & Props

Lightup Letters, Starlight floors & Backdrops • Enjoy your first dance with some sparkle • Make your top table special

What our customers say:

Professional DJ services • Highly skilled wedding DJ’s • Music styles across all genres • Professional lighting, sound & Dance-floor equipment

2 0 1 3 - 2 0 1 7 VOT E D B E ST W E D D I N G S E R V I C E I N WA L E S

BRIDE

wedding a magical

on a budget

Every newly engaged couple is aware that their big day could amount to being the most expensive day of their life.

On average, a wedding in the UK now costs a whopping £27,000, with every pound and penny accounted for.

But creating a budget, whether frugal or not, is essential to ensure that your spending doesn’t get out of control.

We speak to Swansea’s Lauren Evans, founder of CompareMyWedding.com, about how to keep the cost down…

A manageable budget Breaking down your wedding allowance into manageable chunks is the first step of sticking to it. It can be easy to blow your budget on the wedding as a whole, so try dividing it into elements, for example: ceremony, reception, attire, food, entertainment, photography, gifts and invitations. Go through your day step-by-step to make sure you don’t leave anything off the list.

Trim down your guest list Guest list bloat. Every bride-to-be has experienced it. It can be all too tempting to add everyone you know to your guest list, or fall into the trap of inviting people because you feel obligated.

However, with every addition, you are not only reducing your wedding’s intimacy, but the cost will soon mount up. Prioritising who you really want to be there is key to saving pennies and, ultimately, pounds. Start by whittling your list down by 20 per cent, and continue until you are happy with it.

put every single purchase on your wedding books – no matter how small those decorations or accessories are – and keep a strong hold on those wedding purse strings.

Choose a weekday Wedding venues will often cost more on weekends, bank holidays and Fridays, especially in peak season. If you are booking far enough in advance, you will be able to give loved ones plenty of notice – and they will book a day off work if they want to be there! It can shed hundreds of pounds off your final figure, so be sure to give it some thought.

Consider second hand Price shopping is essential when you’re working on a tight budget.

With weddings taking place every day around the globe, it’s obvious that there will be a lot of second hand decorations and materials available.

Avoid impulse buys This is easily done! If you see something you adore that wasn’t on the list, follow these steps: step back, reassess your budget, give yourself some time to shop around and see if you really need the item. If it’s still as important days later, rearrange your budget to accommodate it.

Involve family and friends Get your family involved with brainstorming ideas and decorations for your big day – they’ll often have surprisingly good ideas, and possibly a few connections, that can save you money and effort. And remember – they know you best!

Keep track of payments Nothing chips away at a budget quicker than purchases that are unaccounted for. Ensure to

GO DIY WITH DÉCOR From the invitations, to table decorations and favours, DIY elements not only save you money, but also add a personal touch to your big day. If you’re stuck for inspiration, use sites such as Pinterest for ideas. It’s also good to remember that often less is more!

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Lauren Evans, founder of CompareMyWedding.com CompareMyWedding.com is the UK’s most celebrated wedding comparison site, with brides and grooms-to-be across the UK using the service to help plan their big day, stress-free.

GETTING ENGAGED? FIND YOUR PERFECT ENGAGEMENT RING AT SPENCER MORGAN. EICH GEMYDD PERSONAL.

HIGH QUALITY REPAIRS; WORKSHOP ON THE PREMISES. PERSONAL, PROFESSIONAL SERVICE. ESTABLISHED, FAMILY-RUN JEWELLERS.

247 OXFORD STREET | SWANSEA | SA1 3BL | TELEPHONE 01792 654800 www.spencermorgandiamonds.co.uk Spencer Morgan Jewellers MorganJeweller

The King arthur Hotel, set in beautiful grounds in the heart of the gower Peninsular, offers the perfect wedding venue for your special day. Our lovely room ‘avalon’ boasts an abundance of character and charm, with its high pitched ceiling and oak beams. The secluded courtyard and private landscaped gardens surrounding it offer ample opportunities for amazing wedding photographs.

Wedding Fayre Sunday 4th March 2018 11am-4pm no appointments necessary, free entry

Telephone: 01792 390775 Higher green, reynoldston, gower, Swansea Sa3 1ad weddings@kingarthurhotel.co.uk www.kingarthurhotel.co.uk

JET SET

CALLING ALL HENS...

BRIDE

Planning a hen do? Make sure you tick everything off, with this fun, keepsake hen book. Get your hens to leave a message and take a selfie with the bride, and fill it with lots of snaps and moments from the hen party. So much better than dare cards, we think!

Fiesta Hen Party Book, £10, Paperchase, Cardiff Forget the new blue British Passports, the only thing we have on our minds (apart from the honeymoon, of course!) are these cute passport holders. You never know, they could earn you a free upgrade or a bottle of fizz too!

Just Married Passport Holders, £22, Paperchase, Cardiff.

THE HAPPY COUPLE

THIS MONTH

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

These bride and groom signs are perfect to decorate the top table. At £5 each they are a wedding decor essential. Bride and Groom Sign, £5 each, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

BRIDESMAID STYLE

FLOWER GIRL AND PAGE BOY COLLECTION Ready for the new season, River Island introduces its 12 piece occasionwear range for little boys and girls. Soft baby pink dresses with delicate floral appliques are complimented by ivory white sandals, shaping the perfect outfit for a flower girl or bridesmaid.

Brushed cotton suits in pastels and hazy hues are at the height of next season. They go hand in hand with clean effortless tailored shirts teamed with basket weave loafers for a formal twist.

We love the three-piece suit which is perfect for weddings. The Flower Girl and Summer Suits Collection launches in ages six months old - 12 years old.

Toast the happy couple, with these beautiful, personalised champagne flutes.

It boasts three Swarovski crystals and a love heart design with a Mr and Mrs in white font.

Personalised Petite Heart Swarovski Flutes, £39.99, GettingPersonal.co.uk

THE PERFECT DISPLAY

Channel Art Deco opulence in your bridesmaid looks with Monsoon’s range of floor-skimming styles.

With hand-embellishment, intrinsic detailing and beading, the maxi dresses are in a range of styles and colours. Pictured: Blake Floral Embellished Maxi Dress, £169 and Rosie Sequin Tulle Maxi Dress, £199, Monsoon, Parc Trostre

A gorgeous wooden storage crate for your wedding - perfect for displaying favours, flowers or gifts from your guests. It is printed with the names of the couple, the venue of their wedding, and the wedding date. This rustic, personalised apple crate with a lid is stained white which comes with stapled corners and makes a truly memorable gift that you can treasure forever. Letterfest Personalised Wedding Keepsake Crate, £64, John Lewis, Cardiff

THANKS

RAISE A GLASS

River Island.com

These chocolate heart lollies make delicious table favours, especially if you are planning a Valentines themed wedding.

Raspberry White Lick, £2.50, Hotel Chocolat, Cardiff

SHOE HEAVEN

Be Wed, £250, Dune, Cardiff

Married, £250, Dune, Cardiff

Bestowed, £130, Dune, Cardiff

Dune launches its wedding collection this spring. And lets just say we are loving the range of wedding shoes, especially its embellished heels, which look wow! Here are a few of our favourites, ranging from £99 to £250, Dune, Cardiff

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We love a Wedding show

OUR WEDDING SHOW INCLUDES: GLASS OF BUBBLY ON ARRIVAL WEDDING GOODY BAG CANAPÉS EXHIBITION STALLS

SUNDAY 4TH MARCH 2018 11AM - 3PM REGISTER ONLINE FOR YOUR FREE PLACE VillageHotels.com/WeddingShow

Terms & conditions apply

Have your Picture Perfect Wedding At Norton House Hotel we offer comfort, style and service, Ensuring your special day is one to remember

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Valentine’s Day, Wednesday 14th February

A drink on arrival, 4 course meal, Ed Sheeran tribute act followed by resident DJ until midnight and a present for that special one in your life. £70 per couple or why not stay the night and enjoy our delicious breakfast the following morning for an additional £70.

Newly Refurbished Venue

St David’s Day, Thursday 1st March

Experience the traditional tastes of Wales in this 6 course taste of Wales £27.50

Mothers Day, Sunday 11th March

3 course Sunday lunch and a gift for all the mums. Adults £25.00 Children under 12 £12.50

Easter Sunday, Sunday 1st April

3 course Sunday lunch with Easter eggs for all the children. Adults £19.95 Children under 12 £9.95

Fathers Day, Sunday 17th June

Packages start from Just £25pp Picturesque scenery on our doorstep

3 course lunch and a gift for all the dads. Adults £19.95 Children under 12 £9.95

Norton Road, Mumbles, Swansea, SA3 5TQ

01792 404 891

Enquiries@nortonhousehotel.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

Castellamare PETER SLEE reviews Castellamare: ‘ Some of the best food I have eaten in months....’ peter.slee@trinitymirror.com

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umbles is ­— let’s be frank — its own microclimate. All roads to SA3 could be blocked by the military, but The Civilised People’s Republic of Mumbles would muddle along drinking ‘honesty box’ homebrewed prosecco and very rare steak with fries for at least six weeks.

Longer probably!

I was reminded of this fact while eating a plate of fried chicken at a chain restaurant just down the road in Swansea itself last week. I was suddenly filled with shame.

Why? Well, firstly because it wasn’t very good and, secondly, because I was reminded by my dining companion that this column has maybe been neglecting some of this city’s great neighbourhood restaurants, many of long standing.

I’m sorry. It’s just too easy to be seduced by the whistles and bells of the glitzy, heavily publicised openings we have had of late . ‘We have robot butlers! And imported Murano artisan chandeliers! And a chef who won three stars!’ says the press release, and off I trot, panting.

What I can occasionally find are legions of directionless staff and armies of managers wobbling about managing nothing. We can sit plaintively for aeons begging passing flounderers for drinks, menus, love. And often it’s not even terribly busy.

Meanwhile, wondrous local angels serving up satisfying, rustic-style portions of Haddock fillet with Gower crushed potatoes or spicy chicken with Italian sausages and fresh spinach pasta or wild mushroom and garden pea risotto are roundly ignored.

So here I am checking one of them out.

Of course, in reality, good neighbourhood restaurants that we can slink to in a jumper and jeans and be fed a good dish of something, are what we all dream 74 swansealife.co.uk

@PeterSlee56

of having in our postcode (SA3 or otherwise!).

We are busy, we often come home to a desolate fridge bearing half a jar of pesto and penicillin, some Babybels and a gently melting cucumber. At this point, Nigella would mutter something about ‘last-minute supper’ and begin snipping emergency, frozen, something or other out of the freezer on to a bed of windblown acorns. I, however, either eat Primula squeezy cheese on slightly stale oatcakes, lashings of peanut butter on soft white bread or my local neighbourhood restaurants prop me up.

So I really wish Castellamare was a little closer to my house, I’d be in there three times a week when my supply of squeezy cheese runs out.

There’s something quite rare about a really good homespun, independent Italian. But this is what it is.

It’s a pretty little restaurant too, standing nobly on a cliffside spot with wonderful views of Bracelet Bay and Mumbles lighthouse in front of it and with huge unobstructed windows so one can sit with a glass of wine and a plate of whatever takes your fancy surveying all life that passes by.

We are here on a Saturday night, and boy, it is super busy. We’ve booked ahead and are pleased we have done so.

In we go and immediately get the idea these people love to cook and love to be hospitable and are doing the best, moment by moment, that they can.

One of my dining partners orders a bowl of pasta gamberoni, which I would have avoided as typical pasta portions in many restaurants, however much one pays, are usually a measly pocket of stodge sat in a clear sauce, which should be served with a Sudoku to work on while everyone else eats their dinner. Here it is different and served up in a big, healthy, school dinner-style portion of remarkable pasta in a bright sunset-coloured tomato sauce.

Elsewhere on our table, panfried haddock fillet on those Gower crushed potatoes with a lemon and caper butter sauce is judged a huge winner as is my vegetarian pea risotto with black truffle and parmesan shavings. Wow, some of the best food I have eaten in recent months!

Our table waiter is ace and knows what he is doing which helps too.

Castellamare is one of those restaurants I will now dish out as a dinner tip nigh-on continuously. First, by listing its many plus points: ‘excellent but not up itself’ and then ‘modern without attempting hipness’.

caramel ice cream with a shot of fresh expresso to pour over it . By this point, semi-supposing myself to be on holiday and not out on a cold February night in Mumbles, I finished dinner with a Limoncello.

All in all, a crowd-pleasing formula that should be everywhere, but is actually rarer than hen’s teeth.

We left the place fatter, happier and smiling as did the legions of other diners also out that night here.

Simple things, brilliantly done.

It really matters!

For years now, it has remained elegantly busy, largely due to the reliably fine standard of its food and a chipper front-ofhouse who know how do things properly.

I hesitate, when explaining its ethos, to use the much-strewn foodie term ‘fresh and seasonal’. But in Castellmare’s head chef Marius Castelany’s case, it is roaringly true. A simple antipasti starter of bruschetta with onion and basil might be followed by fillet of salmon with a mixed leaf and rocket salad.

The wine list is good too.

Pictures: Adrian White www.adrianwhitephotography.co.uk

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Castellamare Bracelet Bay | Mumbles | Swansea SA3 4 Tel: 01792 369 408 Email: info@castellamare.co.uk

We very nearly split a raspberry pavlova; so simple, so dietdestroying, but instead went with an intense Affogatto - salted

swansealife.co.uk 75

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VALENTINE’S DAY AT THE OXWICH BAY

A STUNNING COASTAL LANDSCAPE LUXURY ACCOMMODATION DELICIOUS CUISINE

These are just a few of the many things the Oxwich Bay Hotel has on offer to make your Valentine’s Day magical.

Treat yourselves to a bespoke Valentine’s Day menu lovingly crafted with fresh and local ingredients, take a twilight stroll along the beach and relax in one of our cosy and stylish hotel rooms overlooking the sea.

01792 390 329 www.oxwichbayhotel.co.uk/events/valentines-day-2018

This Valentines, find your perfect mix at

A Mediterranean Dining Experience Where Spanish and Italian flavours combine

If food is the key to their heart, let us help you unlock the door !

Booking is essential

207 New Road Skewen SA10 6ET T: 01792 81 81 82 www.lacasona-skewen.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

the fountain inn Fabulous food in a cosy haven, says Christie Bannon as she heads to The Fountain Inn in Pontarddulais

A

t the end of a long day there’s nothing I enjoy more than kicking back and unwinding with a little help from a glass of white that I’ve been hoarding in the fridge all week.

But on this cold and damp winter’s night, I find myself heading out of the city to have my glass of white brought to me in the cosy surroundings of a classic country pub, as opposed to my usual sofa set-up that’s become a Friday night ritual.

The Fountain Inn takes pride of place on the outskirts of Pontarddulais and has definitely earned its stripes as an idyllic meeting place to catch-up with friends, get together with family, and even plot an attack on a toll gate.

That’s right, even back in the 1800s locals congregated here to make a decision that would go down in history.

Whether knowingly or not, The Fountain Inn played an important part in the Rebecca Riots, as the attack was planned in this very pub which saw a local weaver join forces with around 200 men wearing women’s clothes, to destroy a toll gate that charged as much as 6 old pennies to pass through.

I can’t say it looks as though anyone is plotting anything here this evening as we’re surrounded by a number of families all enjoying each other’s company over some good food.

After passing the revolving desserts cabinet on the way in, I’m already craving a sweet treat with the little devil on my 80 swansealife.co.uk

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shoulder telling me to skip straight to the cakes that are temptingly on display. Thankfully, the angel wins this fight as we take to our seats to mull over the savoury offerings.

The main menu offers a wide variety of classic pub grub favourites, including a beef lasagne, beer battered cod and chips, but also boasts impressive A La Carte offerings too, with chargrilled whole seabass, roast breast of duck and Welsh fillet of beef medallions all standing proud on the list.

The starters all float around the £5 mark, with stuffed field mushrooms, nachos and a goats cheese and pistachio salad all on offer.

It’s the Thai battered tiger prawn skewers that grab my attention.

Served with a side salad and a sweet chilli dipping sauce which adds a delicious burst of spice to the dish. My companion opts for a similar offering with plenty of kick as the marinated chicken skewers are placed on our table. Doused in Cajun spice with fruity hints of orange and lemon, this too is served with a dipping sauce to help tame the spices.

The wine list fails to disappoint too, with a glass of the house Chardonnay going down a treat. The bar sits to our left with a number of locals winding down over a quiet pint.

The warm tones of the patterned carpet and detailed curtains makes this feel like a homely haven. Whilst the multi-coloured tiling that encases the kitchen’s servery adds a modern twist to our surroundings.

Our main meals arrive very promptly and I can’t wait to taste the meal that has been artistically presented in front of me.

The roast supreme of chicken is the one for me, served with a delightful blue cheese and bacon cream, an array of vegetables and a generous helping of sauteed potatoes. The blue cheese and bacon sauce is just like velvet, making this dish well worth its £14.95 price tag.

The red Thai vegetable curry that sits opposite me looks just as tempting. The creamy curry is beautifully presented on a bed of rice, with a variety of vegetables throughout. Priced at £10.95 this is the perfect option to warm you up on a cold night.

I’ve somehow managed to find room to fit in a dessert and my eyes light up at discovering that a vanilla creme brulee is on the cards. The sugary blanket on top perfectly balances the two textures, whilst the shortbread on the side serves as an added indulgence!

The Fountain Inn 111 Bolgoed Road, Pontarddulais, Swansea, SA4 8JP Telephone: 01792 881866 Website: www.fountaininn.co

Pictures: Robert Melen

With a mix of the attentive staff, great food, and the laughing and chatting feel-good vibe around us, this place already feels like home and we will certainly be returning.

swansealife.co.uk 81

FOOD & DRINK

The way to the heart..

Say it with a chocolate treat or a glass of fizz, says LAURA DAVIES Limited Edition Valentine’s Ring Bun, from 80p, Greggs, Swansea

Home cooking with Sian Day

A deliciously simple recipe for February...

Valentine’s Shortbread

Milk Chocolate Heart, £3, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre

Make a batch of these lovely heart shaped shortbread biscuits for Valentine’s Day, your loved one will thank you for it. This is a traditional shortbread recipe but make it extra special by using Welsh salted butter. Rachel Allen and Glyn Purnell loved these when I baked them for our first round on Channel 4 ‘My kitchen Rules’. He even asked me for my recipe ha ha! A Michelin star chef asking me for my recipe - that made my day!

Asda Let Love Blossom Chocolate Rose with Love, £1, Asda, Llanelli and Gorseinon

Prosecco and Rose Love Heart Jellies, £3, M&S, Swansea Personalised Vintage Love Letter Collection, £39.50, Biscuiteers.co.uk

Personalised Set Of Three Ales, £24.99, Gettingpersonal.co.uk

Bake on 180 degrees for 6-8 mins depending on the size of your cutter.

YOU WILL NEED...

■ For the shortbread ■ 125g butter ■ 55g caster sugar ■ 180g plain flour ■ 1100g bar good quality dark chocolate

Edinburgh Gin Rhubarb & Ginger Liqueur, 50cl, £16, Tesco, Parc Fforestfach and Parc Trostre

4. Leave to cool METHOD 1. In a bowl beat the butter and sugar together then add the flour bring it together into a ball of dough

Prosecco and Chocolate Hamper, £30, Thorntons, Swansea

2. For best results wrap in cling film chill in a fridge for about an hour this rests the gluten and makes rolling out easy.

The Valentine’s Sleekster, £22.50, Hotel Chocolat, Cardiff 82 swansealife.co.uk

3. Now a little tip, roll the dough between two pieces of cling film, this prevents the rolling pin getting sticky. Cut into heart shapes then place on a baking sheet and ensure there is space around each one as they spread a little during baking.

5. Then melt the chocolate over a pan of gently simmering water and dip the cooled biscuits half way in.

6. You can even sprinkle with chopped nuts or some popping candy!

Enjoy the love!

FOLLOW SIAN’S DELICIOUS RECIPES on her blog page siandaydream.wordpress.com or Tweet her @SianDay

FOOD & DRINK

VEGAN SPECIA L

THIS MONTH

WELL BREAD

WE L VE

Bursting with flavour, Nakd Banana Bread bars are the ideal morning snack. Made from 100% natural ingredients with gluten- free oats, they are sure to fill you up between meal times. Better still, each contains less than 100 calories and counts towards one of your five-a-day.

If you’re going animal product-free this month, these buys will make it easier

CaulI POWER Mixed grains with cauliflower, coconut milk, broccoli, lentils, red pepper, roasted sweet potato and mango chutney with a blend of spices, this makes a tasy and quick snack.

Co-op Meal Pot Vegan Cauliflower & Coconut 275g, £2.80, Co-op, Llanelli

Nakd Banana Bread Raw Fruit Oat & Nut Breakfast Bars, £2.49 at Asda, Llansamlet and Gorseinon

TEA, ANYONE? Fermented Kombucha tea is the latest health trend from the States and is full of friendly bacteria which can help support digestion and boost immunity.

MILK FOR ALL As if coconuts weren’t healthy and trendy enough already, VitaCoco has brought out a light version of its coconut milk, which is just 20 calories per 100ml and 1% fat. Still creamy and delish, though.

The Equinox Kombucha range is available from Waitrose and is suitable for vegans.

275ml bottles cost £1.80 and come in original, ginger, wild berry and raspberry and elderflower flavours.

£3,Tesco , Parc Fforestfach

Waitrose, Cowbridge

SLAW & ORDER Grabbing a sandwich has never been healthier with the new fillings out there. We love this vegan Beetroot & Apple Slaw with kale pesto and a lemon dressing on soft beetroot bread. £3, M&S

nice rice baby

POP STAR FOOD COLOURING Tesco has partnered with pioneering chef, Derek Sarno, to create ‘Wicked Kitchen’ – a new range of plant-based meals.

The Wicked Rainbow Curry Bowl, 245g, £3.30, is full of colourful curried pulses with fiery sweet potato, onion bhajis, fragrant mango and a cool minty dressing.

It’s also gluten free. £3 from Tesco, Llansamlet and Parc Trostre

Satisfy any snack attack with vegan-friendly Metcalfe’s Sea Salt and Cinema Sweet bags of skinny popcorn which are under 100 cals per serving, at 87 and 93 respectively.

RRP £1.59 for the Sharing Pack, 79p for the Impulse Pack and £1.79 multipack, available in major supermarkets and in independent retailers.

Meat-free meals in a hurry

Pure Bite Clusters, £1.99 each, at supermarkets.

If you are looking for healthy and satisfying vegan food for when you are out and about then Vegan On The Go comes to the rescue with more than 100 lunchtime recipes.

A portion of these contains 24% of your daily protein, they’re gluten-free and high in fibre – plus they won a Great Taste award.

Very more-ish.

The step-by-step recipes include spaghetti frittatas, asparagus quiche and broccoli cakes with mango and avocado salsa.

Written by chef Jerome Eckmeier and fellow vegan Daniela Lais, the book (published by DK, priced £12.99) covers everything from salads and soups to sandwiches and sweet treats, and more, which are simple to make.

swansealife.co.uk 83

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Best places to Eat

Restaurant Guide Four great places to eat and drink

BOOK NOW FOR VALENTINE’S DAY!

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

Family friendly pub serving food daily.

Serving for food Monday-Wednesday 12-3pm & 5-8pm, Thursday & Friday 12-8pm, Saturday 11.30-6pm Sunday carvery 12-4pm. Choice of 3 meats £6.45.

Curry & Pint night every Thursday 5-8pm.

Free newly refurbished function room for parties.

Car park at rear of building.

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The Kingsbridge Inn Swansea Road, Kingsbridge, Gorseinon, Swansea, SA4 4AS Tel: 01792 892229 • www.kingsbridgeinn.co.uk

Relax in our newly refurbished lounge & bar or enjoy home cooked food in our family run award wining restaurant. Specialising in gluten free and dietary needs.

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Tiffany’s Restaurant @ The Coach House Longford Road, Neath Abbey, Neath, SA10 7AJ Tel: 01792 816307 • www.coachhouseneathabbey.co.uk

Relax and enjoy your lunch or evening meal in the Tiffany’s Restaurant.

Look out for our weekly lunch offers.

Open Tue-Fri 12-9pm. Sat 6pm-9pm. Sunday Carvery 12-3pm.

Meet our new chef. Book now for Valentine’s Day!

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FOOD & DRINK

Quick & Easy

STIR FRIES TO CELEBRATE THE YEAR OF THE DOG Celebrate the Chinese New Year - the year of the dog - on February 16 with LAURA DAVIES’ round up of tasty stir-fry recipes laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

SPICY HONEY GARLIC PRAWNS WITH WATER CHESTNUTS Super simple and quick, this stir-fry dish is spicy and satisfying.

Serves 2 Ingredients

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

1tbsp rapeseed oil 2 garlic cloves, crushed and finely chopped Knob of fresh root ginger, peeled and grated 1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped 200g raw tiger prawns, shelled and deveined 1tbsp Shaohsing rice wine or dry sherry 1 x 225g can of water chestnuts, drained 1tsp chilli bean paste 1tbsp runny honey 1tbsp low-sodium light soy sauce 2 spring onions, cut on an angle into 1cm slices, to garnish

Method:

1. Heat a wok over a high heat until smoking and add the rapeseed oil. Add the garlic, ginger and chilli and stir-fry for a few seconds to release their aroma.

2. Add the tiger prawns and leave to sear and brown for a few seconds, then flip them over and cook for one minute.

Season with the Shaohsing rice wine or dry sherry.

3. Add the water chestnuts and toss well, then add the chilli bean paste, honey and light soy sauce and toss for a few seconds to mix the sauces well.

4. Garnish with the spring onions and serve immediately.

AUBERGINES IN ASPICY PEANUT SAUCE In need of a hearty veggie stir-fry?

This one will do the trick.

■ ■

Serves 2 Ingredients

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

■ ■

■ ■

1tbsp rapeseed oil, plus 1tsp 300g purple aubergine, sliced into 1cm x 3cm strips 1 red chilli, deseeded and finely sliced 1tbsp Shaohsing rice wine or dry sherry

For the sauce: ■ 1tsp smooth peanut butter ■ 1tbsp chilli bean paste ■ 1tsp sesame paste, such as tahini

86 swansealife.co.uk

2tbsp low-sodium light soy sauce 1tbsp Chinkiang black rice vinegar or balsamic vinegar 1tbsp cornflour 50ml cold water For the garnish and to serve: 1 spring onion, finely sliced 1tsp toasted sesame seeds Wheat flour noodles or steamed jasmine rice

Method

1. Whisk together all the ingredients for the sauce in a jug, then set aside.

2. Heat a wok over a high heat until smoking and add one tablespoon of

THREE-CUP CHICKEN STIR-FRY This easy sticky chicken dish is a classic Taiwanese recipe, perfect for a quick and speedy supper.

Serves 2 Ingredients

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

250g boneless chicken thighs, sliced into 1cm x 2.5cm cubes Pinch of sea salt flakes Pinch of ground white pepper 1tbsp cornflour 1tbsp rapeseed oil Large knob of fresh root ginger, peeled and cut into large slices 2 garlic cloves, crushed but left whole 1 red chilli, sliced into rings 1tbsp Shaohsing rice wine or dry sherry 50ml low-sodium light soy sauce 50ml toasted sesame oil

rapeseed oil. Add the aubergine strips and stir-fry for four to five minutes while adding small drops of water to soften the aubergine - about 100ml in total. As the water evaporates, keep adding more.

3. Once softened, push the aubergines to one side of the wok and add the second teaspoon of rapeseed oil.

Fry the sliced chilli for a few seconds, then season with the Shaohsing rice wine or dry sherry.

4. Give the sauce a stir, then add to the wok and cook gently, stirring and tossing all the ingredients together until the sauce is heated through and has coated the aubergines - about two minutes.

5. Garnish with the spring onion and toasted sesame seeds and serve immediately with your choice of noodles or rice.

■ ■

1tsp caster sugar 5g Taiwanese nine-pagoda leaf basil or Thai sweet basil

Method

1. Place the chicken in a bowl, add the salt and ground white pepper and then dust with the cornflour. Mix well to coat then set aside.

2. Heat a wok over a high heat until smoking and add the rapeseed oil. Add the ginger slices and fry until crispy and golden, then add the garlic and red chilli and toss for a few seconds to release their flavour.

3. Add the chicken pieces and leave for 10 seconds to sear and colour, then flip them over. Season with Shaohsing rice wine or dry sherry and stir-fry for two to three minutes on a high heat until the chicken is almost cooked.

4. Add the light soy sauce, the toasted sesame oil and sugar and cook for five minutes until the liquid has almost evaporated.

The chicken should have a dark brown, slightly sticky shine. Add the basil leaves and toss through to wilt, then take off the heat and serve immediately..

Recipes from: Stir Crazy: 100 Deliciously Healthy Stir-fry Recipes ~by Ching He-Huang, photography by Tamin Jones, is published by Kyle Books, priced £19.99. swansealife.co.uk 87

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@LawsDx

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laura.davies@trinitymirror.com @LawsDx Whisk, mix and flip the perfect pancakes on February 13 with LAURA DAVIES’ pick of must-have Shrove Tuesday products

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FOOD & DRINK

GETTINGFLIPPING

ng ixi , M t 9 s Se us p f Pl u if st g C ard Ne urin s, C ph as wi se e Le Jo d M hn ph an Jo se ls 4, Jo Bow £2

GH 4-piece Stainless Steel Measuring Cups £3, George Home, Llanelli

swansealife.co.uk 89

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The perfect match...

MATCHING THE PERFECT WINE TO A PARTICULAR MEAL IS A MATTER OF INDIVIDUAL PREFERENCE; BUT SOME VARIETIES OF WINE SIMPLY WORK BETTER WITH SPECIFIC MEALS THAN OTHERS. THIS ARTICLE WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH A SET OF FOOL PROOF RULES TO FIND THE PERFECT FOOD AND WINE COMBINATIONS.

Rule #1: The No-Goes

While white wine and red meat is not necessarily incorrect (you can drink Champagne with pretty much anything), the more traditional approach to red meat would be a full-bodied red wine. It is also untraditional to pair red wine with fish, for example.

Rule #2: Sweet with Heat For the most part, a sweeter wine with a low alcohol content is the perfect match for a spicy dish. Even if you haven’t a sweet tooth, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how the flavours are modified when heat is brought into the equation. We recommend a Riesling or a Gewurztraminer.

Rule #3: Matching Ethnicities

It’s the safe option to pair foods of a particular region with wines from the same region; for example, Spanish food with Spanish wine. Regional pairings are a classic match as the vineyards and

farms share the same terrain, giving them flavours that naturally enhance each other.

Rule #4: Complex Wines go with Simple Foods When it comes to cracking open the 1959 Chateau Margaux your attention should be on the wine, not the food; therefore a simple meal would be a favourable match. You don’t want to overpower the subtleties of fine wines.

Rule #5: Don’t forget dessert The dessert wine must always be sweeter than the dessert; if the dessert has more impact, the wine will seem dull in comparison.

Armed with these tips, go forth and experiment. Sometimes, you stumble upon the perfect match and it just works. When that happens and the food compliments the wine and the wine compliments the food, it really is a wonderful thing!

Here are some great wine/food matches to get you started!

Terrazas de los Andes Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina £13.95

Charles Smith Kung Fu Girl Riesling, Washington State, USA £13.95

Moscato Passito Palazzina, Piemonte, Italy £6.95

Intense purplish colour with red shades. Very expressive, revealing a floral and red fruit profile of violet, raspberry and cherry, with marked aromas of toasted coffee and chocolate. Characterised by a broad and sweet mouthfeel, delicate tannins add finesse to this great Malbec.

This wine is from the Columbia Valley region of Washington state, two states up from California on the west coast of the USA. The grapes come from a cool site producing fruit with sublime minerality. A lively number with tonnes of character, this wine is bursting with delicious stone fruits and citrus notes.

A nose of intense lemon meringue pie, marmalade, hard caramel and toffee apple. The palate has lots of ripe apricot and acacia honey characters with a core of homemade lemon curd running through to the long, fresh and lingering citrus finish.

Try with a big, juicy steak with chimichurri sauce

Will be an ideal match for spicy Chinese food or Thai fishcakes!

Could this be the perfect match for lemon tart?

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HOUSE & HOME

THROUGH THE KEYHOLE

LIVING ON THE EDGE OF A FOREST

If you go down to the woods today, you will find a residential retreat that also offers business opportunities, as CHRIS PEREGRINE reports. chris.peregrine@walesonline.co.uk

I

t has got a rural feel that stands comparison with other similar locations, and benefits from outstanding nearby features.

There is a private access road through the forest and even an opportunity for a new owner to run a ‘cottage’ business through use of a large barn as stables or for other means.

Close by is Penybedd Wood, Pembrey Country Park and Cefn Sidan sands. Then there is the property itself, the name of Forest House giving a certain clue.

It has been a delightful home for Eleanor Parker and her family over 36 years.

Cue its immediate setting, six acres of land, comprising pasture, woodland and garden areas surrounding the well presented family home, complete with double glazing throughout and a central heating system. There is a lounge, a sitting room, a dining room, a kitchen and breakfast room, a study area, a utility room and cloakroom. Upstairs there are four bedrooms, an en suite and family bathroom.

92 swansealife.co.uk

“We moved here in 1982,” she said. “It was previously a Forestry Commission house and we extended it. We put in a garage and a kitchen one end and a lounge the other end. It is a long Welsh house.”

It has been great as a family home for three generations.

“It has got a big barn and a storeroom unit for wood as we have got a woodburner,” said Eleanor. “We are a mile from the country park and the beach, and the race track. It is a wonderful family home.”

There are two ways in, one via a private track from the country park car park and the other down a lane. The drive leads to hardstanding to the front of the property.

The hallway has a ceramic tiled floor, a window seat and two store cupboards, one of which houses gas fired central heating.

A door opens up the cloakroom, and the utility room is fitted with a range of larder, wall and base units, with worktops over.

The kitchen has the same features and a four ring electric hob, extractor fan and hood over. Also to be found there are an inset double oven, grill and microwave, and wine rack. It has a garden view, ceramic tiled flooring, textured ceiling and inset spotlights.

To the front of the house is a breakfast room with features including a radiator, a textured ceiling and inset spotlights.

There is also an alcove with shelves and a door to an integral double garage.

An ornamental open fireplace is an eye-catching feature of the dining room, which has ceramic tiled flooring, a wall mounted radiator and two wall lights. The spacious sitting room overlooks the garden and has an open fireplace, three wall lights and access to the study. Double glazed ‘French style’ doors in the lounge open to the patio leading to the garden.

Moving upstairs and you will find a good range of built in store cupboards on the landing and access to the attic.

Fitted wardrobes, providing ample hanging and storage space and with mirror fronted sliding doors, feature in the master bedroom and there is also a side balcony looking out over the garden, paddock and woodland. The en suite has a vanity unit, with wash hand basin and store cupboards/drawers under, a toilet, bidet and shower cubicle.

Bedroom number two again has fitted wardrobes with mirror fronted sliding doors, and overlooks the rear garden. There are two other bedrooms and a bathroom.

The paddock area to the front is skirted by woodland, while the garden areas have mature shrubs, trees, flower beds and borders.

PROPERTY: Pen Bedd, Forest House, Pembrey.

PRICE: Offers in the region of £575,000 BEDROOMS: 4 AGENT: pa black, Gorseinon

www.pablack.co.uk

Cadoxton Neath

Killan Road Swansea

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

• Impressive Detached Family Home • On The Entrance To The Gower Peninsula • Substantial Gardens • Private Rural Location • Four Double Bedrooms With Two En-Suites & Two Balconies • Gated Driveway Leading To Detached Double Garage

For sale with pa black Neath 01639 635115

For sale with pa black Swansea 01792 641481

Pontarddulais Swansea

OIRO £375,000

Brombill Barns Port Talbot

• Spacious five bedroom detached country cottage • Two large reception rooms • Bathroom and Shower room • Numerous outbuildings/cottage/garden room • Quiet country location close to M4 • Viewing highly recommended

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

For sale with pa black Gorseinon 01792 894422

For sale with pa black Neath 01639 635115

£410,000

£535,000

Forest House Burry Port • Detached Country Residence • 4 Bedrooms, 3 reception rooms • Nestling on the fringe of Pembrey Country Park • Set in approx 7 acres-pasture woodland & garden • Large outbuilding

£369,000

For sale with pa black Gorseinon 01792 894422

OIRO £575,000

www.pablack.co.uk

Allt-Y-Cham Drive Pontardawe

Graig Road Trebanos

• Period Property + Features • Set In Mature Grounds • Six Bedrooms • Basement and Wine Cellars • Close to local amenities

• Detached Three Bed • Character Property • Local Amenities Nearby • Four Reception Rooms • Beautiful Gardens

For sale with pa black Morriston 01792 789201

Lletty Dafydd House Neath

£595,000

For sale with pa black Morriston 01792 798201

Bishopston Swansea

• A large family house dating back to 1850 of local historic importance.

• 5 bedrooms • 4 reception rooms plus cellar • Large gardens and paddock • Outstanding views • Spacious family home

• Period property set in about three acres • 3 reception rooms • 5/6 bedrooms • Triple garage with mezzanine • Panoramic views of North Gower

For sale with pa black Neath 01639 635115

For sale with pa black Swansea 01792 641481

£450,000

£379,995

Coed Glas Swansea • Detached executive • Unique design • Master bedroom with en-suite • Energy efficient & cost effective • CRL Warranty

£945,000

For sale with pa black Gorseinon 01792 894422

£350,000

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

SHIRECOMBE HOUSE, SOUTHGATE, SWANSEA

THE COACH HOUSE, LANGLAND, SWANSEA

A hidden gem with the most spectacular views of Three Cliffs & Oxwich Bay. Within a 5 min walk are Pobbles beach, village pubs, stores & Pennard golf club. Also included is a detached 4 bed Coach House, used presently as a holiday let. EPC D&D

Offering a unique, architect designed converted coach house, with contemporary interiors & moments from the family friendly Langland Bay & benefitting from mesmerising sea views. There is a manicured communal garden with gate onto the coastal path & a car parking space. EPC B

Asking Price £2,650,000

Asking Price £420,000

NEWTON VILLAS, MUMBLES, SWANSEA

SEAWINDS, MUMBLES, SWANSEA

Situated with private access into Under Hill Park, with the village of Mumbles and beaches just a short stroll away. This luxurious home offers an open plan kitchen/diner/ lounge with benefit of additional separate living areas also. 4 beds & 4 en-suites. EPC B

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

Offers Over £825,000

Asking Price £1,200,000

NEWTON ROAD, MUMBLES, SWANSEA

WHITEWALL, LANGLAND, SWANSEA

A breath taking Grade II property which is set within approx. an acre & delicately eclipses Underhill Park in Mumbles. Presenting very generous, versatile space of 9 beds, 5 reception rooms & a wealth of character. Wonderfully positioned in the heart of Mumbles. EPC exempt.

Situated in one of Swanseas most desirable addresses & only moments from the popular beach at Langland. This detached home offers versatile, generous accommodation which is presented beautifully with a blend of traditional features and modern luxuries. EPC C

Offers Over £800,000

Offers Over £725,000

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

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

RAGLAN, ST ANNES, LANGLAND SWANSEA

GWENDRE FECHAN, LLANDYFAELOG, KIDWELLY

A bespoke home situated on the award winning Gower coast line. This truly idyllic location with picturesque sea views provides tranquil living, set over 3 floors with 6 beds and vast living space the property welcomes family living with the additional of an indoor swimming pool. EPC B

A wonderful farmhouse lovingly extended & restored, with spectacular views.

Comprising kitchen/diner, lounge, games room, utility, 3 beds & family bath. Lovely grounds, a large barn & a separate 1 bed cottage with holiday let potential. EPC D & F

Offers in the Region of £1,595,000

Offers Over £500,000

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

HEATON RISE, SKETTY SWANSEA

THE GRANGE, MIDDLETON, SWANSEA

Situated to enjoy impressive sea views this house offers versatile accommodation briefly comprising: kitchen/breakfast room, 3 receptions, 4 beds & 2 bath/shower rooms.

Generous front & rear gardens with a swimming pool, detached garage & workshop. EPC D

Beautiful, modern detached 5 bed home is finished to a high standard providing a generous & flexible family home. Quiet coastal location with sea glimpses & close to Rhossili. EPC C

Offers Over £900,000

Offers Over £625,000

WEST ACRE, GROVES AVENUE, LANGLAND, SWANSEA

THE OLD COW SHED, SKETTY, SWANSEA

Located in the most desired private road in Langland, this detached family home has exceptionally generous room sizes & stunning interiors. Comprising 3 receptions, kitchen/diner, 4 beds & 2 bathrooms. The master bedroom has sea glimpses. EPC D

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

Asking Price £1,299,950

Asking Price £1,100,000

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

HOUSE & HOME

Charcoal grey is a great colour for kitchen units – it’s stylish, goes with almost any colour and hides dirt (yay!).

Can’t afford a new kitchen? Paint your units with a cupboard paint from RustOleum – visit Makeityours.co.uk for tips.

■ A grey scheme can look a bit safe so inject some fun with flashes of yellow, from the lighting and bar stools to bowls and kitchen tools.

■ Black kitchen appliances, such as fridges and ovens, are back in fashion.

Smarter than white or chrome, they work well with dark grey, and – again – won’t easily show up dirt.

■ Keep things from looking too dark with white, off-white or very pale grey walls, worktops and flooring.

■ Give your room personality with framed prints, or a mural that echoes your colour scheme (this peacock wall art is by Bristol-based artist Alex Lucas, Lucasantics.bigcartel.com).

■ Make a tiled feature wall. Mix mosaic or geometric tiles in blue, navy, yellow and white (or a patterned tile in those shades) behind your hob, then pick out these colours in the room.

bright ideas Give your kitchen a makeover in charcoal grey with fun pops of sunshine yellow and peacock blue… laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Jackson Pendant Light, £59, Made.com

■ Blue-and-white striped Cornishware has been around since the 1800s. The sturdy ceramic storage jars, utensil pots, jugs and bowls are fun, functional and beautifully made.

Helsinki Chopping Board, £8.50 for 3, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Peacock A3 Print, £30, LucasAntics.bigcartel.com

Hexa-Cube 3D Tiles, £32.95 per sqm, WallsandFloors.co.uk

Cornish Blue Serving Bowl £50, Utensil Jar £28, StorageJar £32, Cornishware.co.uk

BIA Egg Crate, £6.50, NotJustJugs.com

98 swansealife.co.uk

This is Arbequina Olive Oil, £10.95, Brindisa.com

tool, £ l Bar S om .c a Meta Victori ultFurniture C

79,

■ You don’t have to have the same handles. Stick to the same colour (here it’s brushed chrome), but go for the shape that works best – finger-pull handles might work better on drawers; round knobs are easier to grab hold of on cupboards.

Ochre Yellow Hexagon Tiles £79.95 per sqm, WallsandFloors.co.uk

Rose Gold Wire Basket, £14, JDWilliams.co.uk

■ Go for a mix of lighting. Ceiling spots will give you plenty of light throughout the room; two or three pendant lights over the central island or seating area will create intimacy.

NEW DEvElopmENt Plot 2 & 3 Heol y Meinciau, Pontyates, Llanelli, SA15 5SE

‘A lifetime service under one roof’

4/8 John Street Llanelli Tel 01554 779412

www.daviescraddock.co.uk

Davies Craddock have the pleasure in offering for sale a Well Designed Modern Bungalow set in a Small Peaceful Development in the Semi Rural Village of Pontyates, Carmarthenshire.The accommodation comprises Entrance Hallway, Kitchen, Lounge/Dining Area, Family Bathroom, Master Bedroom with En Suite & Second Double Bedroom.

Externally there is an enclosed garden to the rear and a Garage to the side of the property.The property has good road links to Llanelli and Carmarthen but is also located within walking distance of Schools, Shop and Amenities.

Mae gan Davies Craddock y pleser i gynnig Byngalo modern sydd wedi’i osod mewn datblygiad bach tawel ym Mhentref Lled-wledig Pontyates, Sir Gaerfyrddin. Mae’r Byngalo yn cynnwys Cyntedd, Cegin, Lolfa / Ardal Fwyta, Ystafell Ymolchi Teulu, Ystafell Wely Feistrolaeth gydag En Suite, Ail Ystafell Wely Dwbl. Tu allan mae gardd yn y cefn a Garej ar ochr yr adeilad. Mae gan y Byngalo gysylltiadau ffyrdd dda i Lanelli a Chaerfyrddin ond mae hefyd o fewn pellter cerdded i Ysgolion, Siop a Mwynderau.

Plot One has Sold • Plot Two - £149,995 Plot Three - £169,995

w e N just k c o t s rived ar

Outlet furniture store

Up to 70% off HigH Street price i m m e d i at e c o l l e c t i o n o r d e l i v e ry

High Street brands at factory prices

We buy the latest over-runs, cancelled orders re-runs and end of line items from famous UK leading suppliers

Leather 3 seater plus 2 chairs RRP £4077 Our price £995

Manual Reclining Corner Group RRP £1999 Our price £695

tel: 01792 588066

Swansea Gymnastic Centre

Unit 2 Celtic Trade Park, Bruce Road, Swansea West Industrial Estate, Fforestfach, Swansea SA5 4EP Open Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5.00pm, Saturday 9.30am - 1.00pm Stock changing weekly

YSTRAD ROAD

www.sofasolutions.co.uk CELTIC TRADE PARK

WE ARE HERE

BRUCE ROAD

Star Lantern, £40, Next, Morfa Retail Park

HOUSE & HOME

Helsinki Date Block, £8, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

London Toile Tea For Two, £28, Cath Kidston, Cardiff

Cactus Lamp, £39, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

Ceramic Snail Plant Pot, £16, Next, Swansea

Maia Table Lamp, £99, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre

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

Hearts Mug, £10, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park

@LawsDx

Owl Coffee Canister, £8, George Home, Parc Trostre and Llansamlet

Faux Plant, £16, Next, Morfa Retail Park

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Aqua Speckled Vase, £8, Wilko, Parc Trostre

Porcelain Leaf Pattern Lantern, £7, M&Co, Cardiff

THIS MONTH

RJR.John Rocha Cushion, £30, Debenhams, Swansea

Textured Pottery Jug Vase £35, M&S, Swansea

Gold Rainbow Lunch Bag, £18, Paperchase, Cardiff

Hexagonal Shelf Mirror, £149, M&S, Swansea

Marble Clock, £6, Wilko, Swansea

swansealife.co.uk 101

HOUSE & HOME

1

DECLUTTER AND DE-STRESS

Now is the time to do away with all those home accessories and furniture pieces that are holding your home back from looking fresh and stylish.

Decluttering 'de-stresses' and simplifies your home, allowing for a space in which every item has a considered, rightful place and creating a sense of harmony throughout. It is the perfect way to create a blank canvas to redesign and refresh your home décor!

2

TRENDSET WITH 2018'S COLOUR OF THE YEAR

Refresh your home with the very fashionable, newly announced Pantone colour of the year 2018, Ultra Violet!

Inject this stunning shade into your interiors by using it as an accent colour, punctuating throughout with new cushion fabrics, artwork and homewares.

5 6 7

LUXURIATE WITH CUSHION FABRICS

An affordable and gorgeously indulgent way to refresh your home is to replace your cushion fabrics. It is the perfect way to treat yourself in 2018! It allows you to introduce a new accent colour to your decor or rich, tactile textures, setting the tone of the whole interior.

RESTYLE YOUR HAVEN

It can not get better than buying a new bedding set and throw? This can dramatically freshen up your bedroom, and more importantly, can help with the perfect night sleep.

AMBIENT AROMAS Scent plays such an important role in interior design, dramatically influencing how we experience a space. Why not invest in a luxury candle or a diffuser.

10

EASY TIPS TO REFRESH YOUR HOME

3

Make your coffee table a focal point in the room, restyling it with beautiful books, ornaments and a diffuser or candle. If you prefer a minimalistic look, use the rule of three to ensure it looks balanced and stylish.

Fancy a change of home decor or a seasonal refresh without breaking the bank?

REPOSITION LAURA DAVIES looks at 10 easy tips AND RESET to revitalise your home for the Rearranging your new year which don’t require furniture is the greener, cheaper extensive funds and simpler way to refresh your rooms. In just a few simple or efforts.

9

IMPACT WITH ARTWORK

Replacing your artwork with new pieces is an extremely effective way of creating a fresh visual impact in your interiors. It can change the key focal point of a room, completely shifting the style or tone of the space in a different direction, or it can be a powerful means of punctuating with your new scheme’s accent colour.

4

8

REVITALISE YOUR COFFEE TABLE

FRESHEN WITH FLORALS

Whether you opt for fresh flowers that emit an exquisite floral scent, or faux flowers that offer a beautiful authentic look, adding florals to your interiors is the perfect way to refresh your home.

Display in all rooms to abundantly rejuvenate your entire home interiors with life and vitality, and for a twist of style, arrange your flowers in vases of different heights and widths.

102 swansealife.co.uk

movements, you can transform the ambience of a room and make a huge impact. Place furniture in an entirely new location in the room, rotate them in a different direction or even swap pieces from different rooms.

10

ENHANCE WITH LIGHTING SCHEMES

Rethinking your room's lighting scheme can create a new atmosphere and give it the boost it needs. Introduce ambient or background lighting where there isn't already, or accent lighting to highlight special features, colours and patterns in furnishings.

Adding table lamps and floor lamps can also make for a stylish feature in any room, enhancing key areas and making rooms look more spacious.

HOUSE & HOME

1 L E S L E Y

TAY LO R

IN WITH THE NEW Fancy a new look? Interior designer Lesley Taylor on the hottest schemes of 2018

2

3

RUSTIC LUXURY,

THINK SUB-SAHARAN HERITAGE AND FREE-SPIRITED ACCESSORIES.

4

swansealife.co.uk 103

HOUSE & HOME

3

With Christmas out of the way, and the January sales nothing but a dim and distant memory; it’s time to look ahead to the rest of 2018.

And while I cannot predict the global events or celebrity gossip which will make the headlines, I have a pretty good idea on what we’ll be seeing on the front pages of glossy home mags.

Top of the trends will be geometrics. It’s been creeping closer and closer to the forefront of the interiors world for some time now, but this year it will be everywhere.

Introducing just a couple of key geometric pieces can instantly uplift even the most mundane of rooms, and where you’re working with a pale or greyscale palette you should feel confident in going big, bold and bright.

Thankfully, for newbie interior designers, geometrics will also feature on all sorts of fabrics and accessories – from bedspreads and cushions to rugs and mugs, making it super easy to be on trend in 2018.

Another classic look coming to the fore in 2018 is parquet or herringbone-patterned flooring.

This up and coming wooden flooring scheme has got everyone talking.

This classic trend has recently resurfaced with a beautiful vengeance, with 70s-style short plank parquet all the rage. For a more informal, relaxed feel, the longer-length Herringbone is ideal and this flooring can be especially effective in a formal room such as in the dining room or luxe kitchen.

Recent year have seen us looking towards our Scandinavian neighbours for our interior inspiration and while the Scandi look continues to be in vogue this year, trends this year will also be influenced by countries a little further afield, namely those in Africa.

African-inspired design will be everywhere, with a heavy reliance on Kuba and mud clothes; two different styles of handwoven textiles. Striking and beautiful, both feature traditional patterns usually in deep, dusty colours and will add interest wherever they are placed.

To further the look, think rustic luxury, sub-Saharan heritage and free-spirited accessories.

Faux fur is somewhat of a timeless interior design material, and it’s true to say that it’s never really fallen out of fashion. Yet early 2018 will see faux fur used in unprecedented ways – appearing in a wider range of richer colours teamed with teals and glittering silvers, as well as contrasting against the cooler of colour palettes.

Key pieces will be oversized sofa throws layered on top of one another, expansive floor rugs and even bench coverings for the rustic winter table.

From the fluff and comfort of faux fur to the earthy tones of the African vibes, it’s safe to say 2018 is going to be the year of beautiful interiors.

1. Parquet-inspired flooring beautifully complements a dining suite; this is the Townhouse Basket Weave flooring from The Baked Tile Company 2. Geometrics will be everywhere; tiles from the Creative Geometric collection from The Baked Tile Company 3. Faux fur has long been around, but this year the trend will be hard to escape from – and why would you want to?

104 swansealife.co.uk

Lesley Taylor is the author of 10 interior design books and has appeared on a range of network TV shows, including This Morning, giving inspirational advice on home styling.

She lives in Swansea where she is the Founder and Design Director of luxury interiors lifestyle store Taylors Etc. based in Cardiff www.taylors etc.co.uk

YOUR DREAM

Home Experts FOR

120 YEARS 1897 – 2017

Kitchen OR Bathroom AT LEEKES

Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0333 222 4120 | Online: leekes.co.uk

Kitchens

AT LEEKES

Book your FREE design consultation at kitchens.leekes.co.uk Superb savings on Leading Brands If you’re planning a new kitchen, discover a range of

COOKING PASSION SINCE 1877

options to suit your style at Leekes.

Crafted with quality and innovative ideas, we offer a range of options from Leading Brands including Laura Ashley, Sheraton and Rotpunkt. Our in store designers will lead you through the design process to ensure you have the perfect kitchen for you.

COOKING PASSION SINCE 1877

Shop with us at Leekes...

Up to 40 kitchens on display to suit all tastes, styles and budgets

Expert advice from our qualified and experienced designers

FREE 3D professional design service

FREE pre-fit survey with an approved installer

Shop with confidence with our LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEE† on Leading Brands

Home Experts FOR

120 YEARS 1897 – 2017

Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0333 222 4120 | Online: leekes.co.uk †

Terms and conditions apply – ask in store for details.

Bathrooms

AT LEEKES

â€

Shop with confidence with our LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEE

Superb savings on Leading Brands If you’re creating a luxurious and peaceful haven or simply need a functional family bathroom, choose from our wide selection from all the Leading Brands.

With options to suit all styles and budgets, featuring superb savings, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Once you have designed your dream bathroom discover the ideal finishing touches such as tiles, taps and towels to complete the look.

Tiles

Freestanding Furniture

Home Experts FOR

120 YEARS 1897 – 2017

Baths

Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0333 222 4120 | Online: leekes.co.uk †

Terms and conditions apply – ask in store for details.

HOUSE & HOME

Pheobe Glass Stacked Table Lamp, £35 Littlewoods.com

Linea Baby Cot in Beech with Optional Accessories, £450, Cuckooland.com

ULTRA [VIOLET[

Pantone announced their Colour Of The Year 2018 as Ultra Violet - a shade inspired by this year’s advancements in tech and space-travel, and looking to the future. LAURA DAVIES rounds up her purple picks

Cooks Companion, £1,600, Harvey Jones, www.harveyjones.co.uk

laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

110 swansealife.co.uk

Normann Copenhagen Lust Mirror Small, £80, Amara.com

@LawsDx

Phoebe Velvet Bedroom Chair, £230, SweetPea and Willow, www.sweetpeaandwillow

Purple Coasters, £4.99, TK Maxx, Parc Trostre

Purple Swirl Lamp Base, £34.99, TK Maxx, Parc Trostre

Tarantula Atrafloor Swatch, www.atrafloor.com

n, ushio le C e Mead, k p r u P o.u uis ad.c , Lo £20 uiseme o .l www

Wilko Pillar Candle Lavendar, £2.50, Wilko, Swansea and Parc Trostre Purple Geometr ic G las

Prima Cotton Luxury Towels Mulberry from £8, jdwilliams.co.uk

Cushion, £12.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

Shutters from £290 per m2, Shutterly Fabulous, www.shutterlyfabulous.com Hurricane No. 26 Heather, £74.95, Urban Avenue, www.urbanavenue.co.uk

LSA Pleat Vase in Heather, £50, Black By Design Ltd, www.black-by-design.co.uk

6, jdwilliams.co n, £ .uk ter an sL

Linea Midnight Garden Winona Vase, £30, House of Fraser, Cardiff

Amy Sofa, £1070.30, Darlings of Chelsea, www.darlingsofchelsea.co.uk

swansealife.co.uk 111

A

RES

THE

X E T PA . ..

WE

. . . d e r i p s n i e B

RE

TS IS L SPECIA

Your bathroom should reflect your personality thats why we taylor make every bathroom to suit you & your

. . . e l y lifest

Call in and see for yourself, you won’t be disappointed, no one ever is.

Transform your bathroom in just 2 DAYS from start to finish OPEN Mon to Fri 9am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 12pm or Telephone 01269 595806 and arrange a time that suits you.

104 Wind St, West End Ammanford, SA18 3DU

Tel: 01269 595806

www.norwaveltd.co.uk

Suitable for underfloor heating 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 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

HOUSE & HOME

Circles Footstool Blush, £49.99, Very.co.uk

Daisy Bowl, £5, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park

Vase, £16, Debenhams, Swansea

Pink Hanging Lantern, £6, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

pink think

Dylan Blush Cushion, £35, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park

It’s time to blush with LAURA DAVIES pink interior picks laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Cosmo Cushion, £20, Debenhams, Swansea

Michelle Keegan Pink Ombre Glass Table Lamp, £49.99, Very.co.uk

Glass Shade Pink Marble Table Lamp, £78, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Roma Set of Four Chairs Pink, £199, Very.co.uk

Frame, £3.50, Next, Parc Trostre Star by Julien Macdonald Candle, £25, Debenhams, Swansea

Textured Mug, £5, M&S, Parc Trostre

114 swansealife.co.uk

Pastel Biscuit Tin, £4.99, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

HOUSE & HOME Sara Miller Chelsea Cake Plates

Set of 4, £45, jdwilliams.co.uk

Junipa Mikki Rice Bowls (Set of 4), £16, House of Fraser, Cardiff

Ocha Teapot, £25, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

J by Jasper Conran Wooden Pendant, £125, Debenhams, Swanseaa

A TASTE OF THE

Dipping Bowls, £10, Next, Morfa Retail Park

ORIENT Mark the Chinese New Year this month with LAURA DAVIES’ pick of oriental-themed decor laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Sara Miller Chelsea Mug Green, £15, jdwilliams.co.uk

Chinese New Year Bamboo Serveboard, £10, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

’s,

sea an w S

Plate, -ú3.50, S ains bu ry

Wooden Chinese Dragon, £25, Homesense, Parc Fforestfach

Chinese New Year Cookshop Lifestyle, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

ea tal T ien Or

Sainsbury’s Home Oriental Bowl, Small, £3, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Wedgwood Wonderlust Bowl Oriental Jewel, £35, Amara.com

Debenhams Collection Kaeming Bamboo Salad Bowl, £15, Debenhams, Swansea

swansealife.co.uk 115

HOUSE & HOME lorent Rustic Grey Table Lamp, £33.60, Candle Holders F From A Selection, Amelie 2 Drawer Bedside Table, £169, Sheepskin Rug, £34.99, Fluffy Faux-Fur Cushion, £8, Faux-Fur Grey Cushion, £9.60, Amelie Double Bedstead, £599, Set Of Three Keys Wall Art, £20, Natural Twig Bundle, £5.99, Brushed Cotton Check Double Duvet Set, £18, Chunky Pom-Pom Throw In Grey £50, All Dunelm, Parc Pemberton and Pontardullais Retail Park

L arge Ivory Pouffe £39.9Cord Mikabou.co 0, m

Glass Candle Holder 99p, H&M, Swansea and Parc Fforestfach

Sheepskin Rug £34.99, Dunelm, Parc Pemberton and Pontarddulais Retail Park

Graham & Brown Cable Knit Cushion £12.50, Debenhams, Swansea

om Knitted Pom-PNext, Cushion £14, rk Morfa Retail Pa

HAPPY [ HYGGE [ Embrace the cosy Danish concept of hygge and create a warm and inviting environment in the home laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Cashmere Blend Cable Knit £35, John Lewis, Cardiff

@LawsDx

Four Oversized Mugs £25, Made.com Kindling Wooden Box £26, Amara.com

Tree Tealight Holders £22, La Redoute, laredoute.co.uk

Umbra Axis Photo Frame £25, John Lewis, Cardiff

118 swansealife.co.uk

Silja Faux Sheepskin Blanket £38 each, Graham & Green, grahamgreen.co.uk

Quality made truly affordable

A family-run business with over 75 years of experience FIRES • FIREPLACES • ELECTRIC • MULTIFUEL • GAS • STONE • MARBLE • WOOD

Visit our showroom at: Brisco Williams, Gorseinon Road, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 9GG 01792 892357 | www.brisco.co.uk

HOUSE & HOME

OFFICE

plants

It’s time to clear out the office clutter and bring some zing to your workspace - and a new plant could be just the ticket to add some colour and freshness, and boost your productivity in the process. Research suggests plants can bolster workplace wellbeing in more ways than one, LAURA DAVIES looks at some low-maintenance options to consider. laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

5

3

1

1. Devil's Ivy

4. Aglaonema

Devil's Ivy (Epipremnum aureum, a type of evergreen vine, can grow beyond 30ft in the wild, but indoors it rarely exceeds 8ft. The leaves are large and sometimes heart-shaped and come in a wide variety of light and dark shades.

Sometimes just called 'aglos' or Chinese evergreen, aglaonema are popular because of the colour their leaves can attain. They have short stems bearing long-stalked, often attractively variegated leaves. While many are deep green, they can also have traces of silver or red. They symbolise long life to the Chinese.

This species adapts well to a variety of office conditions, from low light levels to brighter ones, but is ideally placed near a window but out of direct sunlight. Water when the surface has dried out, allowing excess moisture to drain through. These plants don't like soggy bottoms. Their heart-shaped white-splotched leaves make a lovely addition to a desk, shelf or table. Larger specimens, trained around a pole or cane, look great in big pots on the floor.

2

4

5. Ficus benjamina

Peace lilies have very wide, broad, deep green leaves and grow beautiful white flowers that have given them their common name. They are popular because they don't need a lot of light and are forgiving of occasional overwatering, too.

Commonly known as the 'weeping fig', this is a versatile plant that looks attractive as a standalone specimen or as part of a mixed display. They grow wild in the tropical forests of India, south-east Asia and northern Australia.

Peace lilies are also known for cleaning the air, helping to remove toxins and creating a healthier work environment.

They're also tolerant of low light and are vigorous growers. These plants work well for focal interest and screening.

3. Dracaena These tough plants make a great choice for eliminating pollutants.

Easy to care for, they can also provide a focal point or be used as a screening plant.

Dracaena cincta (sometimes called Dracaena marginata), can survive in drought-like conditions and have a relentless root system which makes them tough to wilt - perfect for a neglected desk plant.

7

120 swansealife.co.uk

They need temperatures of 16-26C and can tolerate low light conditions.

The darker the leaves, the less light is needed. Keep the soil moist at all times but you'll need to water less in the winter. Repot them every two or three years, but they like to be pot-bound so don't worry if the roots start showing through the bottom of the pot.

2. Peace lily (Spathiphyllum)

Plants which don't flower need to be put in brighter light - but out of direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

Brown leaf tips can be caused by overwatering. Water thoroughly, but don't let the soil get soggy.

6

@LawsDx

Not only are they sturdy, but their thin, often colourful leaves look attractive on desks. For darker areas, or where a statement is needed, Dracaena 'Janet Craig', with its bold, green foliage, is tough and forgiving.

Indoors, keep the area humid, regularly misting the plant or setting it on a pebble tray filled with water. However, weeping figs don't like wet roots, so only water them if the top of the soil is dry. Cold draughts from windows or doors will harm them, so place them in a draught-free spot.

6. Zamioculcas zamiifolia Commonly abbreviated to the ZZ plant, the fat stalks and bulging roots of these low-maintenance plants store a huge amount of water, meaning you don't have to search around the office for a watering can every day.

A favourite for people who are prone to killing their plants, they can also tolerate prolonged periods of low light and are ideal desk plants in our dark winters.

They need little fertiliser, don't require much water, and can handle neglect.

7. Philodendron Philodendrons have been a mainstay as indoor plants since their discovery in the late-1800s in South America. The Imperial Green is a hybrid, with large, lush, deep-green leaves with a glossy coating, and can maintain this sleek appearance in the shade.

Preferring a low humidity and temperatures of around 18-20C, they are ideal for offices as they can be used as part of a large display in a corner, either with other philodendrons or different plants, giving your office a lush, tropical feel.

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

@WadeLandscapes

Perfect plants for your Valentine Flowers are a wonderful way to say ‘I love you’ on Valentine’s Day (or any day!), but rather than the traditional bunch of flowers, why not give your Valentine a plant instead this year that they can enjoy for years to come!

Roses What could be more romantic than a gorgeous potted rose?

At this time of year rose bushes won’t be flowering, but if you choose a plant with a nice photo of the flowers on the label and wrap it up it will be a gorgeous gift. David Austin roses are wonderfulthey have an amazing selection on their website (www.davidaustinroses.co.uk).

Some of my favourite varieties include Desdemona, Gentle Hermione and The Alnwick Rose- they all are easy to grow and have the most beautiful and incredibly scented blooms.

Bare root roses are available at this time of year and may be slightly cheaper than ones in pots but they would need to be planted immediately when they arrive so I would recommend buying a pot grown plant if you’re giving it as a gift.

Peonies Peonies are one of the most popular wedding flowers and it’s easy to see why.

Their gorgeous ruffled blooms are so romantic and the good news is they are really easy to grow!

They are quite slow growing (you may only get a couple of flowers in the first year) but once established they will last for years and years. Plant them in a sunny spot in rich soil and they will reward you with beautiful blooms, potentially for decades!

Kelways have won many awards for their peonies and have a huge selection on their website (www.kelways.co.uk).

124 swansealife.co.uk

Potted Spring Bulbs A cheery spring display in a pot is a lovely gift. You can buy daffodils or tulips growing in pots at this time of year from all good garden centres and DIY shops.

They are really good value for money so why not buy a few varieties that your Valentine can plant in the garden when they have finished flowering and they will go on blooming year after year.

If you are buying potted spring bulbs, it is best to buy ones that haven’t quite come into bloom yet to get the longest possible display.

Buying a plant is a really lovely thing to do if you have just bought your first house together, something you can enjoy watching grow. If you are renting or think you may move you could get a nice pot to put it in rather than planting it out in the garden.

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HOUSE & HOME

VALENTINE’S DAY GEMS FOR THE GARDEN Hydrangea aspera

With JOSEPH ATKIN, Head Gardener at Aberglasney Gardens in Carmarthenshire With February comes the promise of spring. Early bulbs are coming through and winter flowering shrubs are beginning to bloom. There’s no doubt that the worst of the winter is now behind us and gardeners everywhere are looking forward to the new season. Early bulbs make lovely gifts whether planted in the ground or presented in arrangement for the home and it is these along with another Aberglasney favourite, Witch Hazel, that I want to draw your attention to this month.

Crocus ‘Ruby Giant’

Hamamelis/ Witch Hazel

There are a large number of Crocus that flower in February. They all have wonderfully poised little flowers and come in an array of colours. ‘Ruby Giant’ is a striking ruby-purple colour and makes quite a show planted in a small drift in a rock garden or in any sunny spot. They have some useful qualities as a garden plant, the main one being they can be interplanted between later flowering perennials as they die down quickly after flowering.

They also mix wonderfully with other winter flowering plants such as Hellebore, Snowdrops, Crocus and Witch Hazel.

This is a probably the best garden gift for Valentine’s Day as it will not only be in flower on the day but will flower every Valentine’s Day for many years to come. This wonderful shrub flowers on bare stems. The flowers are usually scented and although small they are striking.

Witch Hazel also have good autumn colour and are a nice shape throughout the year. They are very slow growing so useful in most spaces and there is an array of colours from a delicate pale lemon to orange, red and vivid yellow. One important thing to mention is that they like full sun and an open site to perform best and to flower well.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

■

Height = 20cm Spread = 5cm per bulb Position/Aspect = Any free draining, sunny spot Soil = Sandy and dry is best Pest and diseases = Mice can be an issue but put a little piece of mesh over the planting hole and this should solve the problem Style = Herbaceous, Mediterranean, rock garden, dry garden, pots

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Iris ‘Katharine Hodgkin’ Iris ‘Katharine Hodgkin’ is an early flowering Dutch Iris, often called a bulbous Iris. They can be treated in the same way as the Crocus but have a very different flower. The flowers are about five centimetres across on a very short stem. The petals or ‘falls and crests’ are wonderfully intricate with many shades of blue and yellow. Although its not culturally correct they do look stunning when you closely pack them into a terracotta pot.

Alternatively, you can drift them through a border in the same way as Crocus.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

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126 swansealife.co.uk

Height =10cm Spread = 5cm per bulb Position/Aspect = Any sunny Soil = Free draining, they also like a gravel covering Pest and diseases = Again mice can be a problem but putting a little piece of mesh over the planting hole will help Style = Herbaceous, Mediterranean, rock garden, dry garden, pots

Height = 3m maximum Spread = 3m maximum Position/Aspect = Sunny Soil = fertile and free draining Pest and diseases = No problems Style = Mixed border, Mediterranean, Shrub border, Specimen plant, Edge of woodland

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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 ........ Mumbles, The George Hotel Distance .................................... 1½ miles (1 hour) Level ............................................ Moderate Parking ....................................... Mumbles Seafront Pay & Display

132 swansealife.co.uk

Love of the countryside February is a cold month to think of love but Valentine’s Day brings a warm glow to the hearts of many couples. Ramblers also feel a warm glow as they walk along and develop a lasting love for … the countryside! When Valentine’s Day has passed and become a distant memory, the countryside is there to welcome you back 365 days a year! That’s not to say love doesn’t beckon and we’ve seen a number of walking relationships develop into love. That can be one of the added benefits of joining a social group that not only walks but also regularly has other events such as meals out. About 70 new members last year discovered a love of the countryside with us and who knows, some may have found a soul mate on the way!

Saturday walks are especially popular with an average of over 30 walkers so even if you’re not looking for love, there’s a good chance you could make lifelong friendships while you develop that other love - for the great outdoors!

As usual, we have a lot of walks this month that you’re welcome to try out with us but today I’ll describe a short walk that maybe would be nice for just two to enjoy on Valentine’s Day and discover if a love of country walking brings another form of lasting love!

So first book that romantic table for two at one of Mumbles fine restaurants then, allowing enough time for a walk, set off to see a view of Swansea Bay that 18th century travellers compared to the Bay of Naples – Now there’s a way to begin a romantic evening! Begin near The George Inn with a nice stroll along the promenade past Verdi’s and to the pier. Having taken in the view, double back to where the road ascends but take the steps beside the building to get to the top. From there, follow the pavement towards Castellamare but half way along, cross the road and ascend the broad track that winds its way up to Mumbles Hill Nature Reserve. At the top you get that romantic view of ‘The Bay of Naples’. Continue to follow the track past a Trig Point and eventually to a wooden sign where a path on the right descends to the back of The George, passing the woodland of Tiddy’s Ood (worth going just to say you’ve been Below: Andrew Morgan there!). Depending on where you’ve booked your meal, you can vary the start point to end up at your chosen eating establishment. So have a good Valentine’s Day - and remember who brought you together!

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

Upcoming walks February...

THU 01 Oxwich Bay (8 miles) Moderate meet 10.00am Southgate: N.T. CP SAT 03 Oxwich (6 miles) Moderate meet 11.00am Oxwich: Beach car park SUN 04 Llanfrynach (9 miles) Strenuous meet 8.30am Francis St. WED 07 Swansea East to West (7 miles) Easy meet 10.00am Quadrant: Outside Costa SAT 10 Drummau Mountain (5 miles) Moderate meet 10.00am Francis St. SUN 11 Burry Port (8 miles) Easy/Moderate meet 9.30am Francis St. SUN 11 Fan Llia (10 miles) Strenuous meet 9.00am Francis St. MON 12 Gowerton (4 miles) Easy meet 10.00am Gowerton Library TUE 13 Afan Argoed (7 miles) Moderate meet 10.00am Pontrhydyfen: Rhyslyn SAT 17 Mynydd Carnllechart (5 miles) Moderate meet 10.30am Pontardawe: Tesco SUN 18 Llandeilo and Trapp (11 miles) Moderate meet 10.00am Llandeilo Railway Station TUE 20 Oxwich & Penrice (10 miles) Moderate meet 9.30am Penmaen: Rose Cottage Car Park SAT 24 Llangennech (6 miles) Moderate meet 10.00am Francis St. TUE 28 Caswell (8 miles) Moderate meet 10.00am Blackpill: Woodman

March...

SAT 03 Slade and Oxwich Point (5 miles) Moderate meet 11.00am Oxwich: Beach car park SUN 04 Beacons Way & Sarn Helen (10 miles) Strenuous meet 9.00am Francis St. WED 07 Ogmore Valley (7 miles) Moderate meet 10.30am Blackmill: Cattle Market

Visit our website: www.swansearamblers.org.uk swansealife.co.uk 133

OUT & ABOUT

THE WOW FACTOR! A Gower beauty close to the award-winning Oldwalls wedding venue, Mulberry House is an ultra-chic and immensely relaxing retreat for grown-ups, with magnificent gardens and contemporary rooms, Peter Slee has been to check it out. peter.slee@trinitymirror.com

LOCATION 9 / 10 This gracious, former farm building is tucked into the heart of handsome Oldwalls which lies in particularly lovely, rolling landscape. You’re very much in Gower’s rural reaches here yet access is easy: Swansea is just a 25-minute drive away and Oldwalls itself a minute or two by car. Sadly, it is probably just a tiny bit too far to totter on high heels to a wedding at Oldwalls itself.

STYLE AND CHARACTER 10/10 By the time we settled in its squashy sofas, we were reduced to quivering jellies of abject appreciation.

Cosy yet elegant, a plush lounge area with modern prints and paintings - set the tone of the whole property. Expect luxury treats such as the softest of sheets, posh toiletries, thick towels and house-made chocolate brownies. Where other such places can suffer from a profusion of bling, this has been transfomed into the stylish and relaxing haven that it is today.

With its weathered stone, oak beams and huge windows

134 swansealife.co.uk

@PeterSlee56

this is a dreamily romantic house. Beyond is a terrific garden with its own under-cover hot tub, patio areas and outlying meadows.

SERVICE & FACILITIES 10/10 Modernity rules when it comes to cutting-edge luxuries. But that is coupled with slick professionalism , welcoming informality and with committed owners at the helm. It will sleep up to 10 with three luxurious en-suite double bedrooms and two double sofa beds located in the stylish living area of the cottage. In keeping with its rustic style, there’s also a fully equipped farmhouse kitchen, complimentary Wi-Fi, a Sonos music system and Sky TV.

ROOMS 10/10 Bedrooms and suites, in different styles, display astonishing attention to detail, But there’s also a firm commitment to keeping interiors ultra-cool and contemporary. Rustic chic cream, grey and lilac furnishings enhance engaging artworks. The place also offers an outdoor ‘glamping pod’ which will sleep another two in cosy solitude.

WEEKEND GETAWAY PREMIER INN, GRAVESEND

FOOD & DRINK 9/10 The huge, bespoke kitchen here is of the sort you will wish you had at home. Everything about it has been calibrated to convey a sense of pleasing simplicity – although of course that requires much painstaking effort, not least with the ingenious positioning of its windows for spectacular light-filled effect.

Breakfast was waiting to be cooked in the fridge although we were too busy cramming its under-counter wine larder with bottles to spend too much time languishing over bacon and eggs for the next morning!

If you really can’t be bothered to reach for the pans, the in-house catering team and chefs at Oldwalls will also happily rustle up their signature delicious dishes to the door at an added cost.

WHAT ELSE? Mulberry House is a place of many parts, all of them wholeheartedly luxurious.

This place has been designed to cater to bridal parties the night before the special day. But it is also popular with the overspill wedding guests who can’t get a room on site at either Oldwalls or Fairyhill but who still want the experience.

We were here for a Saturday wedding so joined friends for a couple of nights of luxury living and made a weekend of it. It works well too if you’re looking for a romantic couples’ retreat, celebrating a special occasion or simply want to getaway to the countryside. It is the perfect escape not too far away from home.

When it was time to go home, we almost refused to leave and would have booked for another night had it not already been taken. It’s honestly that good.

VALUE FOR MONEY 10/10 £750 per night for up to 12 guests, including rustic breakfast hamper; reasonable given the level of luxury you get here. Free Wi-Fi.

ACCESS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Offering easy access from its huge car park, there should be no problem at all.

FAMILY FRIENDLY? Very! Mulberry House is a sophisticated retreat where peace is paramount. But even so, children are accepted.

Call 01792 391468 www.oldwallscollection.com

This chain hotel is a reliable option for stays near to Ebbsfleet International and the Channel Tunnel which is an easy 15 minute drive away. You can expect the usual Premier Inn style here: clean, efficient but few frills.

■ STYLE & CHARACTER

Practicality is the order of the day at this Premier Inn. If you’ve ever stayed in one, you’ll know exactly what to expect: functional rooms and rock-bottom prices. The building is charmless, modern’ish and redbrick, but comfortable enough if you’re not banking on too many spoils.

■ SERVICE & FACILITIES:

Everything here is geared around getting you checked in and out as swiftly as possible – many guest pre-pay in advance, which means it’s usually an efficient process. Beyond that, you’re pretty much limited to your bedroom or the next-door pub for entertainment . No in-house restaurant. But be warned , for some reason the pub seems to close at 9pm at night most days meaning the chance of a relaxing something to eat after your journey or an end-of-day drink have to be tightly managed. We missed the door by five minutes. Annoying!

Staff in the hotel itself though were very friendly and personable when I visited and helpful with detailed directions. But as you’d expect from a budget chain hotel, the level of service is functional rather than five star. Extra pillows are available on request, and the usual Premier Inn ‘Good Night Guarantee’ applies, which offers a refund if you have a poor night’s sleep.

■ PARKING:

Yes and lots of it. It’s free too which is a bit of a bonus in this location.

■ ROOMS:

A no-frills set up really. But having said that, it offers all you need. The ensuite bedrooms are spotlessly clean, comfortable and inoffensive with tea/coffee facilities, workdesk and Freeview TV. Ours was also fairly spacious. The décor is purple and white with wooden furniture, plus excellent Hypnos beds. Our room had a view of an adjacent car park, not ideal, but hey, we were only there for one night.

■ VALUE FOR MONEY:

Double rooms from £62 year-round. Breakfast £7/9.

Free Wi-Fi and parking.

■ ACCESS FOR GUESTS WITH DISABILITIES?

Adapted rooms available.

■ FAMILY-FRIENDLY?

Yes.

HEVERCOURT ROAD, SINGLEWELL, GRAVESEND DA12 5UQ. PHONE: 0871 527 8472 • ROOMS FROM £29.

swansealife.co.uk 135

OUT & ABOUT

It is time to start planning your travel calendar, LAURA DAVIES maps out some of the places topping the list laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS

WISHLIST

PICOS DE EUROPA, SPAIN

BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

Best for: Hiking

Best for: Urban discovery

Later in the year, Norwegian plan to launch a subsidiary to fly domestic services in Argentina’s interior, which will make it easier to visit other parts of the country too.

Why: One hundred years ago, this stretch of peaks linking Cantabria, Asturias and Castilla y Leon was designated the first national park of Europe. Just 20km from the northern coast of Spain, it’s regarded as one of the most scenic wilderness areas in the country.

Why: Once considered territory only for backpackers and career-break travellers, South America is now a very feasible option for a shorter holiday. British Airways paved the way with a series of direct flights, but now Norwegian is opening the destination up to the low-cost market.

How: Norwegian (norwegian.com) offer flights from London to Buenos Aires from £283.80 each way, with four departures per week.

Limestone mountains, cloud-reaching forests and tumbling glaciers make up the 300sq mile terrain, which is ideal for easy, multi-day hikes. Aside from the landscapes, there’s also the possibility of seeing golden eagles, wild horses and (if you’re really lucky) the Cantabrian brown bear.

How: Pura Aventura (pura-aventura.com, 01273 676712) offer a 7-night Picos de Europa Inn to Inn walking holiday from £1,050pp.

Two tango dancers in Buenos Aires 136 swansealife.co.uk

On February 14, the ambitious airline will launch a direct service from London Gatwick to Argentina’s romantic capital Buenos Aires.

Along with sampling some of the country’s finest steaks and Malbecs at parrillas such as Don Julio (parrilladonjulio.com), admire the ornate beauty of the Teatro Colon opera house (teatrocolon.org.ar/en) or learn about the history of tango at the Carlos Gardel House Museum (museo-casa-carlos-gardel. business.site).

V&A Museum of Design, Dundee

DUNDEE, SCOTLAND Best for: Art and design

Why: Excitement is mounting for the new V&A Museum of Design Dundee (vandadundee.org) which is expected to open late summer and is part of an ambitious £1 billion development of the city’s waterfront.

The first museum of its kind in Scotland will house a permanent collection tracing the country’s design heritage - from Charles

Boat safari on the Shire River in Liwonde National Park in Malawi

The Terracotta Army, Liverpool

Macintosh, the inventor of waterproof fabric, to Ian Callum’s creative input at luxury car manufacturer Jaguar - along with worldclass touring exhibitions.

In 2018, the city also celebrates its links with Mary Shelley, whose Gothic classic Frankenstein was first published 100 years ago. Explore streets described in her book on a walking tour with Dark Dundee (darkdundee.co.uk; tours from £10).

How: Booking.com offer rooms at the Hampton by Hilton Dundee from £80 with breakfast.

Lower Broadway Area, Nashville

How: South African Airways (flysaa.com) offer flights from London Heathrow to Lilongwe via Johannesburg from £694 return. Stay at the Mvuu Camp (cawsmw.com) in Liwonde National Park from £270 per person per night full board.

LIVERPOOL, UK Best for: Culture

MALAWI

Why: With 12 months of cultural events planned for this dockside city, there’s good reason to visit year round. One of the biggest talking points is the impending arrival of the Terracotta Army from Xi’an.

Why: Although it’s frequently overshadowed by neighbouring safari giants Zambia and Tanzania, this small, friendly and politicallystable country is gearing up to be a worldclass wildlife destination.

For more than 2,000 years, these statues guarded the tomb of China’s First Emperor and, from February 9 until October 28, they’ll form part of a major exhibition at the World Museum (liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/ wml/) recounting one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries.

Best for: Wildlife

Last year, the world’s biggest ever translocation of elephants took place, successfully restocking the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, and next year there are plans to reintroduce lions into Liwonde National Park with the help of Leonardo DiCaprio’s charitable foundation.

But even without the big cats, Liwonde is a natural treasure. Watch elephants swim across the park’s Shire river on a boat safari and fall asleep listening to hippos snuffling in the undergrowth.

Other highlights in the arts calendar include a return visit from French puppeteers Royal De Luxe as part of the city’s celebrations to mark 10 years since being European Capital of Culture, The Liverpool Biennial of contemporary art (July 14-October 28), and Tate Liverpool’s 30th birthday celebrations.

How: Booking.com offer rooms at the Z Hotel Liverpool from £45 per night.

Dimmuborgir lava formation, Iceland

NASHVILLE, USA Best for: Foodies Why: Whether you’re a country music fan or not, Tennessee’s capital ripples with intrigue.

Sure, cowboy boots still tap to irresistible riffs in crowded bars, but the appeal of the city renamed ‘Nowville’ by American GQ is so much broader.

A dynamic food scene runs from gritty Southern fare to classy gourmet creations, and the reinvigorated neighbourhoods of 12 South and East Nashville are shaping up to be hipster magnets.

Responding to growing interest in the city, British Airways will launch Europe’s first direct flight on May 4, with five services operating weekly from £499 return.

How: Abercrombie & Kent (abercrombiekent.co.uk) can tailor-make a three-night break including the new direct flights, accommodation and private transfers.

AKUREYRI, ICELAND Best for: Adventure

Why: A wilderness within easy reach, Iceland’s popularity grows every year.

Now second timers are venturing beyond Reykjavik and heading north for similarly striking waterfalls, geothermal pools and lava caves - only without the crowds.

Last month, Super Break launched direct charters to Akureyri from Bournemouth, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Exeter, Humberside and Newcastle; from February, additional services will operate from East Midlands, Liverpool, Leeds Bradford, London Stansted and Norwich.

Iceland’s second city is the gateway to the Arctic North, where highlights include Europe’s most powerful waterfall Dettifoss, lava formation Dimmuborgir and Myvatn Nature Baths - a far less touristy alternative to the Blue Lagoon.

How: Super Break (superbreak.com) offer the 4-night Incredible Iceland trip from Liverpool from £749ppp including B&B accommodation, flights and two excursions. swansealife.co.uk swansealife.co.uk137?

OUT & ABOUT

LONDON WEEKENDER LAURA DAVIES experiences a night at the Holiday Inn London Regent’s Park. laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

C

hoosing to stay at a Holiday Inn hotel has always been a failsafe option for me.

You generally know what to expect, wherever you decide to stay in the country - a clean and modern chain hotel, with good, prompt service and comfortable rooms, which are ideal for a few nights away.

So I had no hesitation in booking the Holiday Inn London Regent’s Park when I was looking for a recent, overnight stay in the Big Smoke.

On this occasion, I was travelling alone and was looking for a central hotel, close to a tube station and not too far away from the hustle and bustle of the bright lights of the West End. Holiday Inn London Regent’s Park ticked all the boxes. After leaving the train at Paddington station, it took me around 10 minutes to get to Great Portland Street on the circle line. The hotel is roughly a two minute walk from the tube and is also close to the leafy grounds of Regent’s Park and the shops on Oxford Street.

On arrival at the hotel, I was greeted by very friendly and helpful staff at reception and was fortunate that my room was ready more than an hour before the 2pm check in. I was upgraded to a suite on the top floor which was comfortable and spotless, and while it wasn’t the largest of suites I have stayed in, it more than served its purpose. It was in keeping with the Holiday Inn decor and was warm, inviting and cosy without being cramped. It had all the

138 swansealife.co.uk

@LawsDx

mod cons including a flat screen television on the wall, complimentary tea and coffee facilities, 24 hour room service and even a pillow service. I couldn’t ask for more.

The hotel had a lovely, welcoming vibe and there were a variety of guests staying there, from tourists to businessmen and women, to families with young children. After an afternoon of shopping, I was glad that I had booked into the hotel’s restaurant for dinner. And what a treat it was! Usually, when I go to London on my own, I spend all day looking around the shops and then take forever deciding where to eat. I usually feel self conscious dining alone so I tend to grab something to eat on the run.

At the hotel’s restaurant, The Grill Room, the mood is relaxed and chilled, unlike many hotel restaurants which can be stuffy and a little bit pretentious. The staff were welcoming and friendly without being too overbearing.

The menu was exceptionable and varied and reasonably priced, especially for London.

For starters, I was torn between the pan fried scallops, (£7.95) and the seasoned crab meat on toasted focaccia (£7.50). I ended up choosing the latter. For mains, it was a tough choice between braised lamb shank, tandoori chicken skewers, fillet steak and oriental spiced duck. After much deliberation I went for the 6oz fillet steak, (£25.95) with sweet potato fries.

The quality of the food was amazing and I could not fault any of it. The crab was delicious and there was plenty of it, and the

steak was cooked to perfection, tender and was literally melt in the mouth. The chef even came to my table to see if my steak was to my liking. His passion for the dishes and cooking was evident in how good the food was and for that I applaud the hotel. I would even consider going back to dine at the restaurant even if I wasn’t a guest at the hotel. The food was that good. For dessert, despite being fit to burst, I opted for the warm chocolate fondant with salted caramel ice cream, (£6.95.) Again, perfection.

The next morning, after a good night’s sleep, I headed down to the self service breakfast, which like dinner, was excellent. Despite the restaurant being busy the staff were quick and attentive.

My overall experience at the Holiday Inn London Regent’s Park was faultless. Its location was excellent, the food, fantastic and the staff were so friendly. It was better than some 5 star hotels that I have stayed in.

I left the hotel knowing I will definitely be back and after reading the applaudable reviews on Tripadviser, I am sure I will not be the only one.

Laura stayed one night at the: Holiday Inn London – Regent’s Park Carburton Street, London, W1W 5EE 0871 942 9111 www.hilondonregentsparkhotel.co.uk Rates for a standard room start from £120

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MOTORING

first drive:

BMW M5 The all-new BMW M5 is the latest in a long line of super-saloons.

WHAT IS IT? So here it is - the all-new BMW M5.

Following in the footsteps of some of the best-regarded super-saloons ever made, this latest four-door powerhouse has got a tougher job than ever to remain top of the pile thanks to some hugely capable rivals.

Utilising the very latest engine technology, it’s also the first M5 to feature all-wheeldrive, as well as a host of other features designed to make it sharper and more capable than ever before.

WHAT’S NEW? There’s a lot going on. The new BMW M5 makes use of a 4.4-litre V8 turbocharged engine as well as that all-important allwheel-drive system - one of the biggest changes to the M5’s layout, with most M-cars traditionally powering the rear wheels only. That said, this new car can still be locked off to rear-wheel-drive only - so purists need not be too aghast. Not only this, but this sixth-generation car is lighter than ever before too, making use of carbonfibre reinforced plastic to keep its overall weight down.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET? As mentioned, the new BMW M5 uses a 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 engine to power all four wheels. Here, it produces 592bhp and 750Nm of torque, allowing it to hit 60mph in 3.2 seconds before reaching an electronically limited 155mph top speed. All that fury is sent to the wheels via an eightspeed Steptronic transmission. BMW claims swansealife.co.uk ?140swansealife.co.uk

that the M5 will do 26.9mpg on a combined cycle, while emitting 241g/km CO2 - so there’s still some degree of sense despite the performance madness.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? BMW M5s of old had a reputation for being somewhat spiky to drive. This latest one has been designed to offer a little more traction - and it’s well and truly achieved this.

Despite packing close to 600bhp, the M5 rarely feels out of control, instead offering a lot of balance and adjustability.

The biggest factor in this is that all-wheeldrive system. There’s no doubting the car’s rear-drive-bias; when the system is set to allow a certain amount of slip, the M5 will fall into delightful mini-drifts, sliding you through corners without ever feeling like it’s going to spin around and bite you. Turn all the systems back on, and it transforms into a point-to-point weapon with all of the traction you could want.

Then there’s the engine. Anybody who doubted turbocharged engines in performance cars needs to experience the way the M5’s V8 deploys its power. There’s no lag to speak of, just shove throughout the rev range. Of course, lower down is where you notice the power the most and any press of the throttle is accompanied by a deep, mechanical bellow. The steering also has a decent weight to it, though it feels its most capable in sport mode - the middle of the three. Comfort feels too light, while sport plus is granite-heavy. The middle ground, unsurprisingly, is the best bet.

HOW DOES IT LOOK? The M5 exudes all of the classic styling that we’ve come to expect from big, powerful M-cars. It’s certainly not as wild as the current-generation M3, but it still looks special. At the rear, four exhaust pipes to give some hint of the car’s performance, as do the gills at the side of the car, but all in all it’s still instantly recognisable as a BMW saloon - and that’s no bad thing at all.

M-cars aren’t meant to be shouty and brash in terms of exterior styling, as they let their performance do the talking - and that’s just the case here.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE? The interior of the M5 uses the vast majority of components from the standard, but excellent, 5 Series cabin. That means you still get an infotainment system which is simple and easy to operate, as well great build quality and good materials. The M5 builds on this with additional ‘sporting’ touches, such as carbon-fibre finishers for the dashboard.

The biggest changes come in the form of driving mode selectors. Two red ‘M’ buttons sit at either side of the steering wheel, and allow you to customise the suspension, steering and engine responsiveness to one of three modes. There’s also the drivelogic selector, now found on the top of the gear stick, which controls how quickly and sharply the car changes gear.

Of course, as it’s based on a standard 5 Series saloon, the M5 remains hugely practical.

There’s loads of space for both sat up front,

while rear seat legroom is excellent too.

The cabin, as a whole, feels special as well as comfortable - and this makes it ideal for those who are planning to undertake longer journeys but still want plenty of ‘star’ factor.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE? You’d expect any high-powered executive saloon to pack a lot of toys and, thankfully, the M5 delivers in this respect. Standard equipment includes 20-inch alloy wheels, adaptive LED headlights and dynamic LED brake lights on the outside, with BMW’s professional media system, 10.25-inch colour display and front heated seats just a variety of the long list of included technology for the inside.

Being a BMW, there’s still a long list of options to choose from. Highlights include ceramic brakes, a sports exhaust system and a full carbon engine cover. That said, the car’s price starts at just shy of £90,000 which means, even by ticking just a few boxes, the M5 could easily nudge into the six-figure bracket - and that’s a lot, even for a car with as much performance as this. That said, it’s in line with its competitors - the MercedesAMG E63S matches the BMW in the price department.

VERDICT The M5 certainly came into this world with a lot of competition. However, thanks to better all-round capability than ever before, it’s likely to come out on top when it goes on sale next year. It’s relatively expensive, but given the sheer amount of technology and performance on board, it feels more than worth the money.

FACTS AT A GLANCE Model: Price as tested: Engine:

BMW M5 £89,640 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 Power (bhp): 592bhp Torque (Nm): 750Nm Max speed (mph): 155mph 0-60mph: 3.2 seconds MPG (combined): 26.9 Emissions (g/km): 241g/km

swansealife.co.uk swansealife.co.uk141?

The Wheel Specialist ALLOY WHEEL REFURBISHMENT & CUSTOMISATION “ DON’T TAKE MY WORD FOR IT, HERE’S WHAT MY CUSTOMERS THINK” - Mark Allcott, Owner, The Wheel Specialist Swansea I was really pleased with the whole experience.

Mark Allcott was very helpful and his advice was spot on. The work was carried out very professionally and I was extremely pleased with the results. It’s a shame that more business’ aren’t the same. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending to others.

Kind Regards, Barry H

Had my wheels refurbished recently at The Wheel Specialist in Swansea on my car. I must say the guys there did a fantastic job, very professional and very helpful. Would highly recommend them to anyone, so many thanks to Mark and the guys at Swansea.

Regards, Vaughan Just had my car done, with Mark and the guys at Swansea branch. Fantastic service, I’m delighted with the finished product and shall be using them again.

Kind regards, Matt L

“Would like to thank you and your team for the really good work that was carried out on my Audi, the wheels look as good as new and I will be recommending you to others.”

Paul Trueman “The wheels are brilliant, the boys did a terrific job matching them to my car, Please thank those concerned. I am very pleased with the results.”

Don Lewis

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DIAMOND CUTTING NOW AVAILABLE AT THE WHEEL SPECIALIST - SWANSEA The Wheel Specialist has redefined wheel refurbishment and customisation with 25 years’ experience in the industry pioneering the power coat techniques delivering outstanding quality and finish, transforming your wheels you’ll be proud to have on your vehicle We have now introduced Diamond Cutting to our extensive range of services with all the work completed at our facility in Swansea

• 12 Months Guarantee (conditions apply)

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Ashmount Business Park (Unit 9B), Upper Fforest Way, Swansea Enterprise Zone, Swansea, SA6 8QR

So if you’re looking to return your wheel to their original factory finished condition or customise your wheels with a completely new look, then The Wheel Specialist Swansea is here to help

WHAT’S ON

Got something to tell us about, for inclusion in the What’s On section?

Please contact Mark Rees... mark.rees@trinitymirror.com

THIS FEBRUARY...

01792 545529 @reviewwales

SUNDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

HITCH - A NEW PLAY ABOUT ALFRED HITCHCOCK

WOMAN OF FLOWERS

LUKE JERMAY

THE RAILSPLITTERS

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE (ARTS WING), UNTIL FEBRUARY 2

TALIESIN ARTS CENTRE, UNTIL FEBRUARY 3

PONTARDAWE ARTS CENTRE, 7.30PM

TALIESIN ARTS CENTRE, 7.30PM

MONDAY

TUESDAY

RETRO COMPUTER GAMES EXHIBITION

MICHAEL MCINTYRE: WORK IN PROGRESS (14+)

LIPSTICK ON YOUR COLLAR,

NATIONAL WATERFRONT MUSEUM, UNTIL MARCH 18

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, 8PM

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, 7.30PM

THURSDAY

1 5

2

3

4

WEDNESDAY

6

7

SATURDAY

FRIDAY

THURSDAY

10

9

8

SISTER ACT (SA15 STAGE SCHOOL)

BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES

ENGLAND V WALES, SIX NATIONS RUGBY,

FFWRNES, LLANELLI, UNTIL FEBRUARY 10

BRANGWYN HALL, 7.30PM

4.45PM

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

FAMILY FILM CLUB

SPECIAL FIRST WORLD WAR EXHIBITION

1930S ORIENT EXPRESS INSPIRED AFTERNOON TEA

WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUP

GLYNN VIVIAN ART GALLERY, 10.30AM - 12.30PM

SWANSEA MUSEUM, UNTIL APRIL 24

11 12 13 14 144 swansealife.co.uk

FOOTLIGHTS (SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE), UNTIL MARCH 24.

BOOKING ESSENTIAL.

MARGAM COUNTRY PARK, PORT TALBOT, 10.15AM

THURSDAY

15

FRIDAY

16

MILTON JONES

PULP FICTION

THE PRINCESS ROYAL THEATRE, PORT TALBOT, 7.30PM

PONTARDAWE ARTS CENTRE, 7.30PM

TUESDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TRAINSPOTTING

THESE WATERS HAVE STORIES TO TELL EXHIBITION

DON’T DRIBBLE ON THE DRAGON

ANIMAL ZONE: RAINFOREST ADVENTURE

FFWRNES, LLANELLI, 7PM AND 8.45PM

GLYNN VIVIAN ART GALLERY, UNTIL MARCH 11

THE WELFARE, YSTRADGYNLAIS, 1.15 PM

PLANTASIA, UNTIL FEBRUARY 22

20

17 18 19 WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

JIM DAVIDSON

THE LITTLE MIX EXPERIENCE

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, 7.30PM

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, 6PM

21 22 FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

WELSH NATIONAL OPERA: TOSCA

WALRUS DIP

DANCE TO THE MUSIC WITH STRICTLY’S KRISTINA RIHANOFF

WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE, 7.30PM

CEFN SIDAN BEACH, PEMBREY COUNTRY PARK

THE PRINCESS ROYAL THEATRE, PORT TALBOT, 7.30PM

23 24 25

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

SUNSET BOULEVARD

MADE IN DAGENHAM: THE MUSICAL

SWAN LAKE

WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE, CARDIFF, UNTIL MARCH 3

THE GWYN HALL, NEATH, UNTIL MARCH 3

SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE, UNTIL FEBRUARY 28

26

27 28 swansealife.co.uk 145

WHAT’S ON

1

SUNSET BOULEVARD

WHERE: Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff WHEN: February 26 - March 3 It was billed as Swansea’s “biggest ever musical” last year, and Sunset Boulevard, starring our very own Ria Jones as Norma Desmond, didn’t disappoint.

But if you want to see it again, or weren’t able to get a ticket, you’re in luck becasue it’s coming back to Wales this February.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award-winning masterpiece will also star Strictly Come Dancing’s Danny Mac when it arrives at Wales Millennium Centre.

He plays impoverished screen writer Joe Gillis who, on the run from debt collectors, stumbles into the reclusive world of Norma, and is seduced by her and her luxurious lifestyle. Joe becomes trapped in a claustrophobic world until his love for another woman leads him to try and break free, with dramatic consequences.

2

THE LITTLE MIX EXPERIENCE

WHERE: Swansea Grand Theatre WHEN: Thursday, February 22, 6pm If you can’t wait for the real thing to arrive in Swansea this summer, there’s good news for Little Mix fans — the next best thing are coming to town.

The Little Mix Experience are said to ”look like Little Mix, sound like Little Mix” — in fact, “you’re sure to L.O.V.E. The Little Mix Experience.”

Paying tribute to one of the X Factor’s most successful exports, the four girls will bring the tunes to life with breathtaking dance moves, replica costumes, and some fine vocals.

You can expect all the greatest hits as well, including DNA, Wings, Salute, Black Magic, Love Me Like You and Secret Love Song.

3

STEWART LEE: CONTENT PROVIDER

WHERE: Swansea Grand Theatre WHEN: Friday, February 9, 8pm Stewart Lee is considered to be a master of anti-populist comedy.

Indeed, he certainly pulls no punches about what he thinks about the current big hitters of the scene, pouring vitriolic scorn on many of them as part of his own shows.

Lee came to prominence in the mid-’90s with comedy partner, Richard Herring, who became cult comedy heroes as a result of the BBC 2 series, Fist Of Fun and This Morning With Richard Not Judy.

Now back after four years writing and performing his TV show Stewart Lee’s Comedy Vehicle, Content Provider is Stewart’s first brand new full-length show since the award-winning Carpet Remnant World.

146 swansealife.co.uk

WHY NOT...

STAY HEALTHY WITH OUR MUST READS From nourishing cookbooks to wellness-approved body bibles, we finds page-turners for better mental and physical health this year.

THE MODEL METHOD by Hollie Grant is published

by Piaktus, priced £16.99.

Ex-pastry chef and Pilates teacher Hollie Grant has become the poster girl for moving away from fad diets, thanks to her ‘strong not skinny’ ethos. Her latest book, The Model Method, is all about eating and sweating your way to a flexible bod and lifelong wellness. As well as heaps of nourishing recipes, there are Pilates and HIIT-inspired exercises to help strengthen, tone and bring mindful balance.

THE FAT-LOSS PLAN: 100 Quick And Easy Recipes With Workouts by Joe Wicks is published by Pan Macmillan, priced £16.99.

With over one million books already sold, which gymlover hasn’t tried Joe Wicks’ famous Lean In 15 series?

If you’re looking to shed a few pounds (or achieve the enviable abs of Mr Wicks), his latest instalment will help you to lose weight through guided diet plans and handy meal prep tips. There are over 100 delicious recipes for busy people who don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen, as well as a handful of Wicks-approved workouts to try. Sadly, no amount of salad or sit ups will help you to achieve his enviable good looks though.

THE HEALTHY GUT HANDBOOK by Justine Pattison is published by Seven Dials, priced £14.99.

.... celebrate St David’s Day with Paul Potts?

WHAT: Paul Potts St David’s Day Concert WHERE:The Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot WHEN: Thursday, March 1, 7pm Ten years ago, more than five million viewers tuned into the inaugural episode of Britain’s Got Talent to witness mobile salesman Paul Potts shuffle up to the microphone to perform his rendition of Nessun Dorma.

Fast forward to 2018 and Paul is still touching people’s lives all around the world, and returns home to Port Talbot for a St David’s Day party on March 1.

Having just released his most ambitious album to date, On Stage, Paul says we can expect a mixture of favourites from the musicals and opera: “I spent months listening to so many powerful songs and discovering which ones I really connected with. I also had my professional opera debuts last year in London and in Szeged in Hungary. I had great fun in performing the roles of Cavaradossi and Steersman in the productions of Tosca and The Flying Dutchman, and it would be remiss of me to not include pieces that I have performed on stage.”

Considering the rise in kimchi, kombucha and probiotic products, it’s pretty clear gut health is something we’re all starting to take seriously. This practical guide to boosting your microbiome is a handy cheat sheet for anyone who hasn’t yet jumped on the trend. There’s a 28-day guide to eating with your gut in mind, alongside 80 simple recipes that won’t disrupt your good bacteria - from sweet potato and spinach dhal to spiced chicken and rice salad.

THE ULTIMATE FODMAP COOKBOOK by Heather Thomas is published by Vermilion, priced £13.99.

If you suffer from digestive issues, chances are you’ll have a whole blacklist of evil foods that will leave you writhing on the floor in pain. Thankfully, the FODMAP regimen has revolutionised eating for the two in ten people who live with IBS in the UK, and there are loads of new gut-friendly recipe books on the subject to provide inspiration. This one has over 100 delicious recipes that won’t upset your stomach - from breakfast and lunch to dinner and supper.

VEGAN 100: Over 100 Incredible Recipes From @ avantgardevegan by Gaz Oakley is published by Quadrille Publishing, priced £20.

Instagrammers will probably know Gaz Oakley as @ avantgardevegan, the plant-powered chef who cooks up some seriously tasty, cruelty-free dishes. Now the Instastar has turned his account into a recipe book in a bid to inspire others to try their hand at meat-free cooking too.

With everything from fried ‘chicken’, ‘fillet steak’ wellington and summer berry mousse cake, this book will dispel the myth that going vegan means miserably chowing down on chickpeas and lentils.

swansealife.co.uk 147

WHAT’S ON

interview

A stella line-up of variety Variety returns to Swansea in February when Craig and Gemma Gallivan bring their annual night of music, dance, comedy and magic to the Grand Theatre. MARK REES takes a look...

And how do the pair go about finding the right acts for the night?

hen Craig and Gemma Gallivan decided to “bring variety back to Swansea” in 2015, they had no idea if it would be a success — in fact, they worried that nobody would turn up.

W

“It’s not an easy task,” admits the actor, who is currently appearing as Dewey Finn in School of Rock on the London stage.

“There are plenty of sleepless nights involved, but something Gemma has held firmly on to since day one, and which we think proves the be the key, is staying true to the traditional essence of variety and trying to deliver things which people haven’t seen before.

But turn up they did — it sold out, in fact — and now they’re back for a third year with another varied line-up of familiar faces from stage and screen.

“If you’d have told us back then that our late night musings on bringing variety back to Swansea would have led us to being here at the Grand Theatre in 2018 for a third year having played annually to packed houses we’d have called you mad,” says Gorseinon-born Craig, who will be familiar to many as Luke in Sky One’s Stella.

“Both Gemma and I have grown up performing at this beautiful theatre and to now be producing our own sell-out shows here is a dream come true.”

“It’s so easy when putting a line-up together to end up with six or seven contemporary singers, which would be fine, but it’s not the brand we’re going for. It means you have to dig a little deeper into the talent pool but when you finally stitch together a nationally recognised musical theatre star, a best selling classical soprano, a pop TV favourite, a British Championship winning dance troupe, a Covent Garden street performer, a local dynamo with The Voice, and an award winning European violinist, the end result is definitely worth it.”

Craig’s guide to this year’s line-up: RAI-ELLE “The incredible talent of 16-year-old Rai-Elle saw her sail into the live shows of this years X Factor. Her spine-tingling a capella performances and self-penned rap interludes regularly blew the judges away, with Simon Cowell telling the youngster during the ‘Six Chair Challenge’ sing off battle: ‘If Sharon (Osbourne) doesn’t give you a chair, you can take mine!’

Rai-Elle is a real talent, and sure to be a superstar of the future.”

JOANNA FOREST “The calibre of this years line-up is just staggering, with our next artist having recently had an official UK number one album in the iTunes chart. As if that wasn’t enough, classical soprano Joanna Forest was invited to record a song to celebrate 70 years of marriage between The Queen and Prince Philip. This song also went to Number 1 in the classical singles chart.”

148 swansealife.co.uk

BEN LANGLEY

“Comic firecracker Ben Langley has delighted audiences all over the world.

His mischievous brand of circus and comedy was honed over eighteen years as a street performer on the tough cobblestones of Covent Garden. From playing Charlie Chaplin at the Royal Opera House London to warming up audiences for Joe Pasquale and Paul Zerdin. Whether he’s juggling fire or exploding giant balloons over his face, Ben really does have something for everyone, young and old.”

JUDE LANDEG “Port Talbot youngster Jude Landeg came to our attention after appearing on BBC’s The Voice Kids. His flawless rendition of Bruno Mars hit Treasure quickly won over McFly frontman Danny Jones who snapped him up immediately saying ‘You literally controlled

my emotions and my feelings. It was incredible.’ Jude really has a gift of a voice with incredible pitch and an ice cool persona to match

NOTORIOUS “Notorious are a force to be reckoned with!

The local dance troupe were finalists on Sky’s Got To Dance, with lead judge Ashley Banjo saying ‘You girls are the best... You could take on any adult crew’, and Aston Merrygold adding: ‘I loved you first time I saw you, now I love you even more! Can i join the group?’

They’ve since won numerous awards including the Welsh, British and world championships. They need to be seen to be believed.”

ANNA DOVAK “Originally from Budapest, Anna now lives in Swansea and teaches music at Neath College.

She began playing violin at the age of six and went on to achieve huge success in her home country, winning the Best Musician Soloist Of The Year Award twice in 2007 and 2011.”

Darren Day “Darren shot to stardom when he took over from Phillip Schofield in the title role of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Over a glittering career spanning more than thirty years, he has starred in countless West End and national productions including Summer Holiday, Grease, The Rocky Horror Show, Hello Dolly and We Will Rock You. Not content with conquering British theatre, Darren is also a television favourite with leading roles in Hollyoaks, Stella, as well as featuring in Celebrity Big Brother and I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here. Darren’s incredible voice, experience and captivating on-stage charisma made him one of the most in-demand performers in the country, and we are absolutely thrilled to have him headlining our show in Swansea this year.”

KEV JOHNS “And of course, our MC for the evening needs no introduction. We’re so lucky to have him at the helm for our production. When you’ve got Kev running the show, you know you’re in safe hands. He’s the man that keeps the whole thing ticking over and makes it look so easy.

A true Swansea legend.”

swansealife.co.uk 149

CIRQUE DU HILARIOUS THE RUSSIAN STATE BALLET CINDERELLA

26 Feb/Chwe 7.30pm

THE SNOW MAIDEN 27 Feb/Chwe 7.30pm

15 - 17 Feb/Chwe 7.00pm Sat Mat 2.00 pm

19 Feb/Chwe 7.00pm

28 Feb/Chwe 2.30pm & 7.30pm

8 Mar/Maw 7.30pm

13 & 14 Mar/Maw 7.30pm

17 & 18 Mar/Maw 10.00am & 1.00pm

30 Mar/Maw 7.30pm

5 - 7 April/Ebrill 7.30pm Sat mat 2.30pm

SWAN LAKE

Opera and Ballet International presents an Ellen Kent production

10 - 14 April/Ebrill 7.30pm Wed, Thurs & Sat mats 2.30pm

17 - 21 April/Ebrill 7.30pm Wed 11.00am & Thurs 2.30pm

1 - 5 May/Mai 7.30pm Wed, Thurs, & Sat mats 2.30pm

11 May/Mai 7.30pm

Help Maggie’s help everyone with cancer

kitchen table day Friday 27 April Gather together around your kitchen table to raise money for Maggie’s.

Register online for your free fundraising pack. maggiescentres.org/kitchentableday

Maggie Keswick Jencks Cancer Caring Centres Trust (Maggie’s) is a registered charity, No.SC024414

SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;¢ MAGGIES

MAGGIES EVENT WHERE: The River House Lounge and Restaurant, SA1, Swansea TELL ME MORE: The first in a series of events showcasing the work and impact of Maggies in Swansea, hosted by Chairman Blanche Sainsbury.

Pictures: Hoosh Arabi

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SOCIAL DIARY • CHARITY BALL

HANDS UP FOR DOWNS CHARITY BALL WHERE: National Waterfront Museum, Swansea TELL ME MORE: Swansea based charity Hands Up For Downs held its first charity ball which included with a three course meal as well as wine donated by Cheers Wine Merchants Ltd. Kev Johns presented the evening and was also auctioneer. Guests enjoyed live music from Swansea band Joe Schmo.The purpose of the ball was to raise the profile of the charity and raise awareness of what it is like to live with Down’s Syndrome today within the community.

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;¢ OPENING LAUNCH

EVA ASHLEY BRIDAL LOUNGE LAUNCH WHERE: Eva Ashley Bridal Lounge, Castle Street, Swansea TELL ME MORE: To celebrate the opening of the new Eva Ashley Bridal Lounge in Swansea city centre, a launch party was held at the former Rhapsody bridal shop. The party was also the perfect opportunity to showcase all the wonderful bridal brands available as well as evening wear, bridesmaid dresses and accessories.

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;˘ AWARD CEREMONY

YOUNG BUSINESS DRAGONS WHERE: The Marriott Hotel, Swansea.

TELL ME MORE: A total of 19 schools stretching across Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire, Swansea and Neath Port Talbot pitched their ideas to a panel of judges on the theme of saving the planet for future generations. The Bryngwyn Comprehensive School team in Llanelli claimed the title for their energy-saving invention, a mobile phone charger that charges itself from kinetic energy.

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;¢ SCHOOL REUNION

CWMTAWE COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL REUNION WHERE: Pontardawe Golf Club TELL ME MORE: Former pupils of Cwmtawe Comprehensive held a school reunion in aid of the British Heart Foundation. It was also held in memory of two past pupils, Kieran Sparrow and Adam Rumming.

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;˘ PREMIERE

LOOK INSIDE THE RAINBOW GRAND SCREENING WHERE: Sony Theatre, Bridgend College TELL ME MORE: VK Photography has teamed up with the National Autistic Society and local community project Spectropolis - Pay it Forward to make a mini documentary about autism. The aim of the documentary, Look Inside the Rainbow , was to raise money to support autism families, as well as raise awareness and acceptance of those who are on the autistic spectrum . All the money made from ticket sales went to the local autism charities. A premiere was held at Cinema and Co, Swansea followed by a second screening at Bridgend College. Pictures: VK Photography

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;¢ CHRISTMAS PARTY

OIL 4 WALES PARTY WHERE: The Towers Hotel, Swansea.

TELL ME MORE: A post Christmas party was held for the Oil 4 Wales management, staff and some of their customers. Max Boyce was in attendance as well as some Wales and Ospreys rugby players. Pictures: Hoosh Arabi

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SOCIAL DIARY • christmas party

Parisian christmas party WHERE: Brangwyn Hall, Swansea Tell Me More: Parisian Christmas party at Swansea’s Brangwyn Hall. Pictures: Hoosh Arabi

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SOCIAL DIARY â&#x20AC;¢ BUSINESS AWARDS

WEST WALES BUSINESS AWARDS 2018 WHERE: Stradey Park Hotel, Llanelli TELL ME MORE: A black tie dinner and awards evening took place to recognise businesses leading the way across the West Wales area - namely, Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion. The night was hosted by Frances Donovan and guest speaker was Wales and Lion legend Shane Williams. Pictures: Hoosh Arabi

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Darparu llety i fyfyrwyr rhyngwladol

Become a host for international students

Allwch chi gynnig amgylchedd gofalgar, cartrefol i’n myfyrwyr rhyngwladol?

Can you provide a caring, homely environment for our international students?

Rydym ni’n chwilio am bobl all gynnig llety a phrydau bwyd i fyfyrwyr rhyngwladol 16 i 18 oed (sy’n byw yn ardaloedd cod post SA2, SA3 a SA4).

We are looking for new homestay hosts to offer accommodation and meals for international students aged 16 to 18 (in SA2, SA3 and SA4 postal code areas).

Gallwch gael hyd at £140 yr wythnos ar gyfer pob myfyriwr.

Hosts can receive up to £140 per week per student.

Cysylltwch â ni ar 01792 284007 neu international@gcs.ac.uk

Contact us on 01792 284007 or email international@gcs.ac.uk

gcs.ac.uk/international

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...

B

efore Christmas, I was introduced by a close friend to a wonderful charitable organisation called Matthew’s House.

Matthew’s House exists to offer hospitality and hope to the most vulnerable in Swansea through its projects. One of the projects called Matt’s café was set up in February 2017 from the lovely Matthew’s House. Matt’s Cafe aims to feed the most vulnerable including any Swansea Jack that finds themselves homeless. It is part of The Real Junk Food (TRJF) Project with one central objective: to intercept food waste destined for landfill and use it to feed people who need it, on a pay as you feel basis.

Matt’s Café is the first registered café on the TRJF network in Swansea and it is equipped with first-class facilities. The innovative pay as you feel concept encourages people to think about what the food means to them, and value it in whatever way they can. By choosing not to segregate people based on financial circumstances, Matt’s Cafe and others similar are funded in a way of donations only but also gives dignity without patronising. It also ensures those who can and are lucky enough are empowered to freely support it. It provides the balance between the need for funding and the need for giving, but it does so in a very blended format – everyone is equal in being fed, everyone is human and everyone has the same worth.

There are over 60 regular volunteers and the family at Matthew’s house have served up more than 8,000 meals. The wonderful, caring mother and son team Sally and Thom Lynch that I met, are truly inspiring people. They work tirelessly to help support and feed the most vulnerable and homeless in Swansea that seek Matthew’s House as a home of hospitality and hope.

They decided that during December they would open their doors on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. They also wanted to bring the Christmas feeling to all of the lovely people who use Matt’s Cafe by providing entertainment for them when they come in from the cold to eat the glorious food that is on offer.

This is where I realised I could get involved, so I approached the lovely Kirsten Orsbourne who I have done a lot of good work with over the last year’s or so, and asked her if she would like to come along and provide some free entertainment to them, adding more joy in what could be a very difficult time for some of them. I had a wonderful time meeting everyone, having a cuppa and getting to know the guests and hearing all about their stories and how they ended up at Matt’s Cafe and how much they have been helped to get back on their feet. The day we were there, along with the usual volunteers were also professional people offering free haircuts, massages and manicures.

Matt’s Cafe has such a lovely, warm, caring and friendly atmosphere offering a lovely welcome to everyone. I plan to stay in touch with the café and help them in the future as much as I can.

Please take the time to look them up online at Matthewshouse.org.uk or on Facebook perhaps, if maybe, you can lend a hand or even become a friend to ensure Matthew’s House and it’s projects stay open and supported all year long and not just at Christmas.

They also have a weekly top five donation request online if anyone would like to donate anything else. I wish them all the luck for the future.

Eddie x swansealife.co.uk 167

TIME FOR YOU Felt Heart Bunting, £16, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Retail Park

Clarins Beauty Essentials Skincare Gift Set, £20, Boots, Swansea

Myleene Klass Placement Embroidery Floral Bra £32, Embroidery Floral Thong, £12, Littlewoods.com

BaByliss 5560PU Elegance Hair Dryer, £35, John Lewis, Cardiff

igan, t Card Prin art rdiff He a ed on, C t ds

Fuji Fujifilm Instax Mini 9, £69.99, Very.co.uk

Sausage Dog He £70 art F ,C l ath ock Ki

Lock Your Promise Clip, £55, Pandora, Swansea Quadrant

All you need is love...

Love Hearts Gift Set, £24.95, Lush, Swansea

LAURA DAVIES rounds up some Valentine’s gifts for the woman in your life, or just treat yourself... laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

@LawsDx

Heart Tea Lights 9 pack, £2, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Jembers, £25, Dune, Cardiff

Memory Box, £12, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

EWA 9ct Gold Garnet Pendant Necklace, £195, John Lewis, Cardiff

t Hear

er, 2, Tig Swan s, £ w a Str

sea

Play Round Jewellery Box, £20, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Tom Ford Black Orchid Eau de Parfum, from £55.50, John Lewis, Cardiff

3D Bunny Frame, £10, Next, Morfa Retail Park

Personalised Mug, £9.99, Gettingpersonal.co.uk

Valentines Hearts Hot Water Bottle, £14, Paperchase, at Next, Morfa Retail Park

168 swansealife.co.uk

Iphoria Phone Case, £45.90, www.iphoria.com

Cosmetic Bag, £12, Next, Parc Trostre and Morfa Retail Park

Patch Cushion, £10, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

Orla Kiely Gold Plated Charm Bracelet, £130, orlakiely.com Hearts Set of 4 Placemats, £18, Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Retail Park

Awesome People Heart Compact Mirror, £12, Oliver Bonas, Cardiff

Bag, £30, River Island, Swansea

Pink Heart Key Locket Necklace, £140, Pandora, Swansea Quadrant

Cwtch Frame, £55, www.vintageplayingcards.co.uk

e, Parc T tters, £3.5 ros 0, orge Hom Cu t ie Ge

Travel Mug, £7, Georg e at Asda, Llansamlet and Llanel li

re

Co ok

All Of Me Mug, £4.50, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

M&S Collection Bra, £22.50, Knickers, £8, M&S, Swansea and Parc Trostre

Mercer Gallery Medium Leather Tote Bag, Bright Red, £315, Michael Kors, Cardiff

Medium Tin Love Chocolates, £35, Biscuiteersbaking.com

LED Heart Lights, £8, M&Co, Cardiff

B by Ted Baker Robe, £42, Debenhams, Swansea

iPhone Snap Cover Initials, £14.99, Gettingpersonal.co.uk Ted Baker Bowtiful Signature Pen, £25, John Lewis, Cardiff

Str aig

Things I Love About Your Journal, £4, Paperchase at Next, Morfa Retail Park

,

Love Balloon, £1, Tiger, Swansea

lat, Cardiff oco Ch l te Ho rt, £39 a e H he mT Fro

ht

Michael Kors Heart Stud Earrings, £59, Goldsmiths, Cardiff

swansealife.co.uk 169

TIME FOR YOU White Lucky Slogan Tee, , Burton, Swansea

Men’s Glacier Snow Goggles, £44.99, Superdry, Swansea

Beats Studio Wireless Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones with Pure Adaptive Noise Cancelling and Mic Remote, £299.95, John Lewis, Cardiff

Paco Rabanne 1 Million Aftershave Lotion, 100ml, £40, Boots, Swansea

Sportful R&D Light Jacket, £135 sigmasport.co.uk

mic Mug, £ Cera 8, Pa ard e B

rk Pa ail

in Next, Morf aR ase et rch e p

Personalised Matte Black Hip Flask Gift Set, £29.99, Gettingpersonal.co.uk

Gifts for him

Philips PQ20317 Mobile Shaver, £29.99, Superdrug, Swansea

Treat the man in your life to something special this Valentine’s with LAURA DAVIES’ picks laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Pink Pique Muscle Fit T-Shirt, £12, River Island, Swansea

@LawsDx

Men-u Selection Box Grooming Essential, £24.95, www.men.u.co.uk

Pink Suit Jacket, £65, Burton, Swansea

Silver Friendship Bracelet, £8, River Island, Parc Fforestfach

Holdall, £55, Next, Swansea and Parc Trostre

Continental Men’s Watch, £270, WatchShop.com

Boxer Shorts, £14.95, Joules, Mumbles

Camera Lens Mug, £14.99, Gettingpersonal.co.uk

PS4 Shadow Of The Colossus, £30, Tesco, Parc Fforestfach and Llansamlet

Ultimate Fit Food by Gordon Ramsay, £25, Waterstones, Swansea Clinique For Men Custom Fit Set, £25, Boots, Parc Fforestfach and Swansea Eden Mill Golf Gin Edition, 50cl, £35, John Lewis, Cardiff

ff ardi ,C on

Bootbag, £9.99, w ww.wru.c o.uk

Lo nd

170 swansealife.co.uk

£55, Links of

Cheese Lovers Set, £14, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

ing Silver C Sterl oll on ar nd

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Tom Ford Private Blend Neroli Portofino Shower Gel, £44, John Lewis, Cardiff

Links of Lo

Modern Man Tool Kit, £9.95, Dotcomgiftshop.co.uk

Boss Tankard, £4.50, Sainsbury’s, Swansea

TIME FOR YOU ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

ASK S A R A

Sara Plant, Partner and Head of Family Law at Peter Lynn Solicitors talks this month about divorce

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.

“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”.

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”.

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.

Whilst Christmas can mean 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 biggest 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.

Sara Plant continued “We use a variety of resources from property valuers to forensic accountants and even antique valuers and whilst 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 with the level of expertise on offer, 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 Sara Plant or one of her team, call 01792 450010 or email advice@plandp.co.uk 171 swansealife.co.uk

TIME FOR YOU

“MY HEART IS ALWAYS WITH WALES” BT Sport presenter and mum Sarra Elgan speaks family, love and Six Nations rugby to Nino Williams

E

veryone forges their own destiny, but a sporting life seems to have been an inevitability for Sarra Elgan.

The daughter of Wales and British Lions winger Elgan Rees, also represented South Wales at hockey and tennis and is married toanother former Lion, and Ireland international, Simon Easterby. But that isn’t why she has been the face of BT Sport’s rugby coverage for the past five years.

It is something to do with her knowledge and love of the game, and presenting skills honed from years in front of the camera, and in front of the microphone.

A Welsh-speaker, her first break was in S4C soap opera Pobl y Cwm, which led to presenting stints on music and children’s programmes, as well as her own radio shows. Her obvious enthusiasm for the job also helps.

I meet her on a miserable Sunday morning in Swansea, the type of day when rain doesn’t fall, but just loiters in the air, grey, and impermeating everything. Even engulfed in a North Face jacket that threatens to swallow her whole, she is impossibly glamorous. The location is a mobile unit in the Liberty Stadium car park, where she is preparing, with co-presenters Shane Williams and David Flatman, to present BT Sport’s coverage of the Ospreys game against Northampton in the European Champions Cup. I’ve been in more salubrious settings, and I’m sure she has, and yet, even here, hours before kick-off, her enthusiasm is obvious. “I love my job,” she says.

“I know how fortunate I am to have a job like this and I never take it for granted.

“I’ve been with BT Sport now for five years now, ESPN for three years and BBC Wales before that for a couple of years I think, so we are looking at five, six, seven, eight…ten years, so it’s quite a lot really.

“And it means I’m lucky enough to be able to spend a lot of time with the kids, as well as work. I think it’s good for the children to see their parents working and I’m lucky that they love rugby and sport.

“So they come to games with Simon and I 172 swansealife.co.uk

sometimes. Ffredi, who is eight, loves rugby, he can’t get enough of it, he wants to be just like his dad. He plays for Cowbridge and he plays cricket and football too, and he’s just started tackling this year, because it’s been tag before then, and he is his father’s son – he came off the pitch after his first two tackling sessions and said: ‘mummy, I think I even prefer tackling to scoring tries’.

“And Soffia, who is ten, is really sporty as well. She plays netball and hockey. They’ve both been brought up with it, with their parents working in rugby, so it’s lucky they both enjoy it.”

Sarra first met her future husband at a fashion show where she was modelling for a Welsh programme, and he too was doing a bit on the runway, representing the Scarlets. But like so many other couples, they really hit it off after bumping into each other on a night out in Cardiff.

“I think as well because a lot of them played with Simon; Ben Kay played with the Lions with Simon, Lawrence Dallaglio went to school with Simon in Ampleforth. He’s a few years older than Si, and obviously Brian O’Driscoll played with Simon, so they all look out for me and all look after me.

“And I’d like to think that I will stay with rugby. I’ve been lucky enough the last couple of years, to do Scrum V and internationals as well, I do that with Ross Harries. BT Sport have been really good allowing me to do that.

“I just think when you have a job you enjoy you want to do the best you can.

They married in Builth Wells, almost 12 years ago, with a guest list that included a mix of rugby and televsion stars including Ronan O’Gara, Stephen Jones, Robin McBryde and Lucy and Rhodri Owen.

“There is a lot to be said for job satisfaction, I get to meet a lot of interesting people. I think the rugby world is unique in a sense, that everybody does support each other. We have a great team at BT Sport, I count them all as mates as opposed to work colleagues. I’ve worked with people like Austin Healey and Ben Kay and Nick Mullins now for eight years, so we’ve become really, really good friends.

These days, Simon is forwards coach for the Ireland national rugby team, and with Sarra’s television commitments, it means they have to manage their time together carefully.

“I think the reason BT Sport is a success is because we all get on so well on screen, and off it, because I don’t think you can fake it, I think that’s why it works.

“But we live in Cowbridge so the airport is quite close, so even though he commutes quite a lot back and forth, it works out quite well, as most of my work is on the weekend, although I do a highlights show for BT Sport in the week as well, called Rugby Tonight which airs on a Wednesday night.

“

“

“Simon is over in Ireland a few days a week, and obviously he’s there en bloc when it’s Six Nations time and during the autumn internationals, so he’s there quite a lot.

WHEN YOU HAVE

A JOB YOU

ENJOY YOU WANT TO DO THE

BEST YOU CAN

“So I’m lucky to be able to spend a lot of time at home. I love the school runs, being able to take them to school every morning, pick them up and take them to clubs.”

And does he watch her when she’s presenting on telly?

“He does, when he’s around,” she smiles.

“He’s not so much a critic, but I ask him advice such as ‘was that right, was that fair what I asked there?’.

“We’ve all been there from the beginning, and there’s nobody really who has come in or gone out, so I think that says a lot about all of us enjoying what we are doing.

“I think we do the coverage for the fans, and we are all fans now, even the boys that have played, they’re now fans. Our main aim through our coverage is to look at everything from a fan’s point of view, try to make it as relaxed as possible, we try to have a laugh, as if you are at home watching it with your mates, or down the pub watching it with your friends.

With the Six Nations about to begin, there’s one obvious question to ask before we go our own ways. Is there a conflict of loyalties in Ty Easterby when it comes to international rugby? Sarra laughs.

“It is really hard, because obviously my heart is always with Wales, but then when your husband makes his living coaching Ireland it is really difficult.

“But my heart is always with Wales.

“He will give his opinion, but he doesn’t critique.

“And the kids are the same. They support Wales when they play against everyone else, and when they play against Ireland it’s a little bit tougher I suppose.

“If I ask him, he will tell me. We don’t tend to talk about rugby that much at home. We do, but maybe not as much as people may think.”

“Si’s really easy, he’s really laid back. He loves it that the kids support Ireland, and he equally loves it that they have such strong Welsh roots and they are so passionate about being Welsh.

I wonder what is it like working in such a male-dominated environment – in particular notorious wall flowers such as Austin Healey. Do they mind their p’s and q’s because they are working with a lady?

“They are a good mix – a bit of Welsh and a bit of Irish.

“No! They definitely don’t do that,” she says.

“That is one thing they do not do. I like the fact that they kind of treat me as one of the boys, and look out for me.

” It’s difficult to argue with that, and it is as good a place as any to end our conversation, as Sarra heads off into the drizzle, microphone in hand.

But you sense, just perhaps, her heart will prevent her being so sanguine come February 24, when Wales take on their Celtic cousins at the Aviva Stadium.

swansealife.co.uk swansealife.co.uk173?

TIME FOR YOU

TIME FOR YOU

Your pe t pi cs!

Your pet pics!

Who‘s the fur-est of them all? They’re part of the family, we wouldn’t be without them, and now we want to see just how gorgeous theof furrier of your are...

Who‘s the fur-est themmembers all? They’re part household of the family, we wouldn’t be without them, and now we want to see just how gorgeous the furrier members of your household are...

Email us your pet pics: laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Email us your pet pics: laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Name: Menna Age: 2 Breed: Patterdale Terrier Likes: The beach, her ball and belly rubs Name: Jonjo Jenkins Age: Breed: Labrador Dislikes: Lawn mower and2the vacuum Likes: The beach Dislikes: being cuddled Owner: Julie Phillips From:Not Swansea Owner: Cullan Cameron From: Pontarddulais

Name: Missy Age: 3 Breed: Cavachon Name: Phoebe Age: months old Breed: Maine Likes: Chicken and4the beach Dislikes: ConnieCoon the collie.

Kitten Likes: Cwtches, ball Glynneath and bribing us for Owners: Lesley andchasing Martynher From: treats with kisses Dislikes:The Hoover and being left alone Owners: Jo and Emyr Orchard From: Swansea Marina.

Name: Honey Age: 3 Breed: Labrador Likes: Swimming, balls, tickles, steak Name: Coby Age: 3 Breed: Red Staff Likes: A cup of Dislikes: Buses, being ignored. tea in the morning front of the fire, chewing up toilet Owners: Katy andinIfan From: Clydach rolls and hiding under blankets. Dislikes: Rain, battery powered drills and small torches Owner: Chrissy Morgan From: Cwmbran

Name: Milly Age: 12 Breed: West Highland Terrier Name: Alffibeach, Jamesgoing Age: 9 Yorkshire Terrier Wil Likes: The in Breed: the car, his baby brother Likes: Popcorn Dislikes: The rain Owners: Emma Dislikes: The postman James From: Brynaman Owner: Lynsey Webster From: Gorseinon

Name: Nala Age: 1 Breed: Pug Likes: SocksAge: 5 months old Breed: Somali Cross Name: Baxter Dislikes: Puddles British Short Hair Likes: Treats, cuddles and the TV. Owner: Gabythe Jones Cilfrew Dislikes: Hates bathFrom: Owner: Kelly Williams From: St Thomas

Name: Harvey Age: 8 Name: Age: 2 Breed: Westie Likes: Absolutely Breed:Phoebe Black Labrador loves attention Dislikes: Hates the word no Owner: Likes; Playing ball Jaime Belshaw From: Loughor Dislikes: Having a bath Owner: Emma Brittain From: Aberdare

Name: Whitley Name: Age: 9 Breed: British Bulldog Age: 13Primrose Breed: Moggy Likes: eating is a Floyda chin Mayweather fan tuna Likes:Sleeping, Pretending to beand a princess, rub, chicken, Dislikes: Exercise Owner: Emma Jones-Thomas and catnip Dislikes: Tummy tickling From: Winch Wen Owner: Karen Jones From: Caswell

Name: Lola Name: Age:Bedlington 8 Breed: Pug Likes: to sit on Age:Missy 7 Breed: terrier crossLoves whippet feetLikes: and perch herwith bumaon top of her really sister fast, Molly.

Dislikes: Playing ball, running swimming Doesn’t like anyone eatingGoing food in of her unless they and surfing!

Dislikes: in front the bath are sharing and Alex Bolt From: Sketty and Owner:Owner: AndrewPaul Meadowcroft From: Caswell West Cross

Name: Arthur Name: Age: Breed: Boxer Likes: Loves long Age: 2 Molly months old12 Breed: Pomeranian walks, cwtch andofhead strokesDislikes: Dislikes:The When Likes:aThe noise the hoover rainher sister Missy eats her food and has more attention than Owner: Christopher Norman and Robbie Salisbury her.

AndSwansea the rain! Owner: Paul and Alex Bolt From: From: Sketty and West Cross

Find Pets, pet food, pet toys and pet acessories in store!

Village Farm, Pyle, Bridgend, CF33 6BJ

174 swansealife.co.uk

Open 7 Days

01656 741443

thepylegardencentre.co.uk

TIME FOR YOU

PREGNANCY WELLBEING As with one in four women suffering from mental health issues during pregnancy, LAURA DAVIES looks at simple and natural lifestyle changes to bring calm and happiness. laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

GET AN EARLY NIGHT There’s no denying you always feel happier and healthier when you wake up after a restful night’s sleep. The National Sleep Foundation advises that pregnant women need a few extra hours rest at night than the average adult, and they could benefit from a few short naps during the day too. Sleep impacts many of the chemicals in your body, including serotonin, and people who are deficient in this neurotransmitter are more likely to suffer from depression. You can help to boost your serotonin levels by making sure you’re getting between 8 and 10 hours of sleep each night during pregnancy.

@LawsDx

MAKE TIME FOR THE THINGS YOU LOVE

oh

baby...

LAURA DAVIES picks out this month’s baby buys laura.davies@trinitymirror.com

Skip Hop Moby 3 Stage Baby Bath Tub, £40, Mothercare, Parc Tawe

One of the most daunting things about pregnancy is the overwhelming feeling that your life is about to change drastically. Make sure you keep the hobbies and rituals that define who you are, to help bolster a sense of self during a period of flux. Whether it’s going to see an exhibition, scheduling an evening of pampering or keeping up with a local book club, it’s important to make small pockets of time for the things you enjoy.

Jellycat Jungly Tails Boing Ball Soft Toy, £10, John Lewis, Cardiff

GET OUTSIDE It’s true what they say - fresh air is good for you. Studies have found that spending just 15 minutes a day in nature can boost focus, ease anxiety and increase levels of the feel-good hormone dopamine. More importantly, getting your fix of all-important vitamin D from natural sunlight can help you to sleep better at night. And the better you sleep, the better you’ll feel during the day.

Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Getting Started Kit, £12.99, Holland and Barrett, Swansea

Baby Joule Razmataz Festival Friends Sleepsuit, £19.95, Joules, Mumbles

MEET OTHER MUMS

PRACTISE PREGNANCY YOGA Getting into a downward dog pose is probably the last thing you want to do when you’re six months pregnant, but practising prenatal yoga can improve sleep and reduce stress. As well as gentle stretching to relax and strengthen, a pregnancy yoga class will usually include guided meditation and breathing exercises to help calm anxious thoughts.

Find a local prenatal instructor who can modify the postures to suit your stage of pregnancy and do your own research about safe and unsafe poses.

@LawsDx

Any mother will tell you, having other women on speed-dial who know what you’re going through can be a sanity-saving connection.

During the later stages of pregnancy, it’s normal to feel quite isolated and even just getting out of the house can be difficult. That’s why it’s crucial to have a strong support group that can lighten the load of motherhood and ease feelings of loneliness. Look for local meetups, mother and baby groups or simply sign up to online forums like Mumsnet.com

Peter Rabbit Push-Along Toy, £12.99, JoJo Maman Bebe, Cardiff

NEW: 500ml Bottle Childs Farm Baby Moisturiser, £8, Boots, Swansea

Lumie Bedbug Child Sleepaid Light, £59.95, Boots, Swansea

Gro Clock, £19.99, Smyths Toys, Llansamlet swansealife.co.uk 175

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Explore our new wonderfully indulgent all over body Cocoa Butter range in store and online today Available at selected Holland & Barrett stores and online at www.hollandandbarrett.com

www.drorganic.co.uk *of users said the product left their skin feeling moisturised after just one application, based on an independent consumer trial of 51 participants.

NEXT MONTH IN SWANSEA LIFE

MUM’S THE WORD...

Your Ultimate Mother’s Day Gift Guide Cracking Easter Treats Beauty Buys Ready For Spring New Fashion Trends Seasonal Home Updates Real-Life Weddings Hearty Welsh Recipes OUT MARCH 5

178 swansealife.co.uk

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