Swansea Life June 2019

a w a r d - w i n n i n g M AGA Z INE

SWA NSE A

LIFE

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june 2019 £2.95

Transformed!

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A real Swansea home you’ll love How to add wow!

All set for

Summer 9 771750 843018

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50+ New-season accessories ONE CRAZY BIG WELSH FEAST

Style it your way this season

WHY YOU FELL IN LOVE Let us take care of every last detail and discover the timeless luxury of Oldwalls

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Contents...

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actiNG Editor Peter Slee | 01792 545559 peter.slee@reachplc.com PUBLISHER Lisa Cameron | lisa.cameron@mediawales.co.uk Photography Adrian White, Jonathan Myers, Hoosh Arabi, Robert Melen Contributors Chris Peregrine, Lara Johnson, Dom Capel, Lesley Taylor, Sian Day, Joseph Atkin, Andrew Morgan, Dr Charlotte Jones, Chris Howells, James Richards, Marc White and Daniel Turner

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editoral designer Sandra Evans | sandra.evans@reachplc.com advertising For all advertsising inquiries, please call Debbie Roberts | 01792 545626 or email debbie.roberts@reachplc.com Swansea Life, Urban Village, High Street, Swansea, SA1 1NW @swansealife

FASHION

HAIR & BEAUTY

9. FASHION FLASH

This month’s Swansea Life

wish list

34. MAKEOVER MARVEL

Mumbles’ Lara Johnson works

her magic

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36. IS YOUR TAN 2019 ENOUGH?

How to avoid those fake-tan mistakes

STYLE THIS SEASON’S HOTTEST TREND Why the polka dot can break your stripe style habit

13. STEP INTO JUNE

Shoes to pep up your look now 14. HIGH STREET HOTTEST

Our pick of this month’s best high

street store buys

40. ASK DR CHARLOTTE

Let’s re-think mental illness 41. SUPERCHARGE YOUR BODY

Lifestyle changed to help lower

your cholesterol

16. HELLO SUMMER

How to glam up in style for the beach

ON THE COVER: Image: Justin Harris Photography

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

Swansea Life is part of Trinity Mirror North West & North Wales Ltd, a subsidiary company of Reach PLC, which is a member of IPSO, the Independent Press Standards Organisation. We adhere to the Editors’ Code Of Practice as enforced

by IPSO, who are contactable for advice at Independent Press Standards

Organisation, Gate House, 1 Farringdon Street, London. EC4M 7LG. Website: www,ipso.co.uk Telephone: 0300 123 2220; email advice@ipso.co.uk If you have a complaint concerning a potential breach of the Code of Practice, we will deal with your complaint directly or IPSO can refer your complaint to us. Please go to www.reachplc.com/how-to-complain where you can view our Complaints Policy and Procedure. A “How To Complain” pack is also available by writing to the Legal and Compliance Department, Reach PLC, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AP.

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FOOD & DRINK

HOUSE & HOME

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REAL WEDDING Jessica Griffin and Stefan Jenkins’ big day at Stradey Park Hotel & Spa

58. KITCHEN KNOW-HOW

Gorseinon’s Sian Day whips up a

dessert favourite

70. SIMPLY DIVINE

The ultimate kitchen makeover

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STEAL THEIR STYLE! A fun-filled party to celebrate Olwen and Gavin Madge’s walk up the aisle

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HELPING HAND Swansea wedding insider Shakira Obaid offers up her best tips for your nuptials

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.

60. FOOD WITH FRIENDS

The ultimate fine dining experience?

62. THE NEW WAY TO DO.....

Citrus gins!

78. FAB FLORALS

Channel some flower magic into

your home accessories 85. JEWEL IN THE CROWN

Fancy a splash of colour in your

bathroom? Here’s how!

92. JUNE’S GENIUS GARDEN FINDS

Aberglasney’s Joseph Atkins and

his beautiful ideas for your garden

SWA NSEA

LIFE SWANSEA LIFE 5

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From the editor

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To be honest, I’m a bit of a coward when it comes to home improvement. It took all of my courage and 15 or so tester pots just to paint the living room off-white last winter! And when we put in a downstairs loo earlier this year, my anxiety level was off the chart.

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So I’m amazed by some people’s fearlessness in tackling big projects. Want proof? Then just take a look at the beautiful kitchen dining room of this month’s dream home over at Southgate in Gower. What its owners have achieved just shows what can be pulled off when you’re determined to create the best living space possible.

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Elsewhere in our pages for June, the fashion team has been “oohing and aahing” over the revelations of the summer catwalk shows and our pages reflect a record number of trends with, I’m happy to say, something to suit every taste, shape, age and budget. So, make sure you check out their thoughts before you do your holiday shopping.

As well as taking a look at everything from hair and beauty to eating out to weekends away and walks through the beautiful Gower countryside, we also have pages packed with a clutch of society pictures from get-togethers and your favourite local real life weddings with insider PETER SLEE tips and savvy buys to help Acting editor personalise your own big day.

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So look forward to the month ahead. Eat well, live well and rejoice at what is to come as the sun shines bright. For early summer is beautiful and the prospects really are good...!

Contact me at peter.slee@reachplc.com 01792 455559 Find us on Facebook @SwanseaLife

Congratulations go to...

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Verona Russell of Gowerton who has won May’s Swansea Life £200 Next compeition and who is handing over her voucher prize to daughter Claire Russell as she sets off on a long hoped-for career path.

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Swansea lives OUR PICK OF THE MONTH’S BEST PARTY GET-TOGETHERS

Hello Shoppers! £3 for 3 hours at St Davids Multi Storey Car Park in Swansea City Centre

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Monday - Saturday

ROWBERRY’S FASHION SHOW

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NPTC Lee Sta fford Acad emy

FREE parking every Sunday at all Swansea Council City Centre car parks

Shop local &

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MADNESS AT FFOS LAS

Save

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Brought to you by

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MORGAN LLOYD HAIR SALON

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FASHION

FA S H I O N F L A S H make a BOWS statement!

The puff sleeve trend isn't going anywhere for summer 2019

Oversized statement earrings are one of this season’s biggest trends. This dreamy Indianinspired Lady Goddess heart clip pair from Swarovski at £129 with attention-grabbing detail is where it is at.

Last summer saw snappier dressers ditch their bare-shouldered Bardot tops in favour of altogether more OTT puff at the shoulder.

And for 2019, the trend shows no signs of abating.

In fact, puff sleeves are fast becoming the only sleeve style worth knowing for summer.

While last year’s puff sleeves were largely seen on cotton, prairie-style blouses and white cotton tops with sweetheart necklines, 2019 sees the puff migrate to comfortably and confidently sit, cloud-like, on the shoulders of everything from jumpers and cardigans to ‘out-out’ cocktail dresses and even jumpsuits and tailoring.

Thought bows were prissy and girlish?

Think again. This season they came big, bad and bouncing, exploding from the busts of taffeta gowns and trailing dramatically from shoulders as well as popping up in all shapes and sizes on shoes and sandals. The mantra? Keep your eyes on the ties!

Bow shoes, £4; Primark, Swansea

Dress, £39; Miss Selfridge, Swansea

Polka dots If there’s one item you need to buy this month, then it surely has to be this polka dot wrap dress from Zara in Swansea (£19.99).

This mid-length cutie is subtle in style and comes in a silky material.

It’s flattering on most body shapes and sizes, plus it’s easily layered, meaning you can wear it all year round.

PRIMARK POWER! I don’t know but it sometimes feels like you can’t move in Swansea for people trailing those brown Primark shopping bags loaded with tees, shoes and jeans. And as for those queues at the tills, other big name brands must look on with envy!

We are not that surprised given the way the chain appears to have no problem persuading people to part with their cash with its value-for-money fashion. Take a look for example at these shorts, £6, and denim jacket, £13, and you can see the reason why!

head in the game From veils and beekeepers to caps and visors, bucket and boaters, to pillboxes and pin cushions, hats and headgear of all shapes and sizes were all over the spring/summer 2019 runways. Don’t be shy now, get your head in the game.

We found this little beauty at River Island in Parc Fforestfach.

Perfect Final Touches As wearable walking around town in jeans as it is on the beach, a straw bag is the arm candy of the season.

Joules in Mumbles has just launched a new collection made from corn husk and features luxurious ribbon handles.

Versatile, lightweight and roomy, it’s time to pick your perfect style match.

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FASHION

SWA NSE A

LIFE Why the polka dot is the solution to your stripe style rut Wearing a certain print can speak volumes. Leopard is vampish, florals ladylike, zebra stuck in the ‘80s. And who hasn’t got a wardrobe full of stripes! But what of the polka dot? It often gets a bad rap, and admittedly, in certain incarnations, can be a tad ‘little girl’s tea party’ for grown up women.

But in the right hands, polka dots can strike that tricky balance between modern and elegant

Polka dot dress, £19.99; Zara, Swansea

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LOVES

Rust polka dot wrap tie waist dress, £32; Glamorous

Black and gold polka dot bardot top, £9.99; TK Maxx, Parc Morfa

Polka dot blouse, £27.99; Bon Prix

Tiered polka dot maxi dress, £55; Oasis, Swansea

J by Jasper Conran pyjama top, £35; Debenhams, Swansea

Navy and white spot bikini top, £25; Laura Ashley, Pontarddulais Road Retail Park

Summer jive bag, £35; Joe Browns

Wesley black closed toe espadrilles, £25; Miss Selfridge, Swansea

Crepe polka dot culottes, £20; JD Williams Unmade Roana spot square scarf, £44.95; John Lewis, Cardiff

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FASHION

COSSIE CRAZY? THESE ARE THE COOLEST SWIMSUITS FOR KIDS THIS SUMMER Whether it’s a staycation with the family or you’ve booked and paid for some guaranteed sunshine, the essential new addition to every child’s holiday wardrobe is a swimsuit Baker by Ted Baker orange floral print bikini, currently reduced to £22.40 from £28; Debenhams, Swansea

Lipsy floral frill swimsuit, from £14; Next, Swansea

Mini club crocodile two-piece set, £14; Boots, Swansea

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Baker deep sea sunsafe, £26; Debenhams, Swansea

Strawberries baby frill swimsuit, £14; Cath Kidston, Cardiff

Mini Club Fearne by Fearne Cotton swimming costume, £10; Boots, Swansea

Princess Jasmine swimsuit, F&F, £12.99; TescoExtra, Llansamlet

Mantaray boys’ green jungle print swim shorts, currently reduced to £8.80-£13.60 from £11-£17, Debenhams, Swansea

step

Ready to

into Summer

Before you break out the rosé and prep the BBQ, it’s time to sort out your summer wardrobe. Wafty holiday dresses and simple skirts for the city don’t tend to date, meaning it’s much easier to add a modern touch via your footwear.

With a variety of trends already beginning to surface, here are the key ones to note to get a step ahead...

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Belted white jeans, £18; black twist sandals, £16; both at George at Asda, Swansea

1. Tan leather sandals, £16.99; TK Maxx | 2. Strobe sandals, £45; Office, Swansea | 3. Stitched neon sandal, £45; M&S, Swansea | 4. Silver toe catch flat sandal, £9.99; ShoeZone, Swansea 5. M&S Collection sandal, £15; Marks and Spencer, Swansea and Parc Trostre | 6. Harlow double strap sandals, £54,99; Joules, Mumbles | 7. Strappy sandal, from a range at Next, Swansea 8. Glitter sandals from Faith at Debenhams, Swansea, £49 | 9. Croyde cross strap sandals, £42; Fat Face, Mumbles | 10. Estella pink laser cut sandals, £29; Miss Selfridge, Parc Fforestfach 11. Pom Pom sandals, £12; Matalan, Morriston | 12. Black zebra print ankle tie ghillie sandals, £18.99; New Look, Swansea

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1. Pink floral kimono, £18; pink lace lingerie set, £16 2. Coral earrings, £4 3. Tan polka dot ruffle dress, £18 4. Khaki poplin cargo short, £14 5. Rust spot bandeau bikini, £12 6. Leopard two strap slider, £12.50

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HIGH STREET HOTTEST

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We’ve been checking out this month’s high street styles 6

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1. Hush tiered maxi skirt, £75 2. Bose Frames Rondo bluetooth audio sunglasses, £199.95 3. One button double layer ceramic bead necklace, £32 4. Powder tropical floral sarong, £28 5. Michael Kors MK2836 women’s runway watch, £189.00 6. Kin Liini open toe slingback espadrilles, £65

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1. Check tea dress, £18 2. Blue check blouse, £12.50 3. Printed cami top, £10 4. Check blouse, £14 5. Circle earrings, £4 6. Snake belt, £6 7. Lilac leather buckle mule, £16.50 8. Bucket bag, £16

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1. Rochelle dress £29.99; shoes £19.99; earrings, £5.99 2. Yellow chain print ribbon floppy hat, £12.99 3. Orange ruffle front Bardot midi dress, £22.99 4. Pink cat eye sunglasses, £7.99 5. Blue fray hem mom denim shorts; £19.99 6. White and black spot bikini set, £14.99 7. Tan wood 7 flatform sandals, £19.99

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1. Top £22 trousers £32; bag £28 2. Red floral print button through maxi dress, £39 3. Monochrome polka dot linen dress, £35 4. Khaki ring detailed bandeau bikini top, £18 5. Gingham shorts, £26 6. Black beaded rope shopper, £28 7. Tate multi colour panel trainers, £29

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glam up for the beach You found the most beautiful hotel with the most incredible view and your tan’s coming along nicely. Don’t ruin the moment by slinging on some old denim shorts over your bikini for lunch, max out your absolutely fabulous holiday vibe with some killer resort wear

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Add a little sophistication to your look with this delightful dotty skirt. We love the contrast godet print, bringing beautiful movement to this flowing style.

Great for holidays or everyday casual style.

Joe Browns, ÂŁ40

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Top £20, skirt £29, hat £14; M&Co, Cardiff

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Polka dot jumpsuit, £39.99; Monsoon, Swansea

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Polka dot cotton dress, £29.50; Marks and Spencer, Swansea

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Beach top; from a range at Evans, Swansea

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Orange floral playsuit, from a range at Dorothy Perkins, Swansea

...and don't forget these, either!

Swarovski X Marcolin sunglasses, £140

Hummingbird statement earrings, £15; Accessorize, Swansea

Joanna Hope wrap swimsuit, £32; JD Williams

M&S Collection polarised round sunglasses, £19.50; Marks and Spencer, Swansea

Tropical frill trim beach shorts, £9.99; New Look, Parc Morfa

Straw beach tote bag, £12.50; F&F at TescoExtra, Parc Fforestfach

Zebra sandals, £22; Miss Selfridge, Swansea

Penley printed slider sandal, £34.95; Joules, Mumbles

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Annie Cartwright

HELPING YOU to feel YOUNGER

Annie Cartwright MSc, RGN, IP Advanced aesthetic nurse practitioner

Worried by the effect of ageing on your saggy jawline? Annie Cartwright, director, Skin and Face Clinics, has a minimally-invasive answer to help you tackle head on the effects of gravity in your 40s and 50s….

My jawline and chin look saggy and it makes me look much older than I feel. Can I do anything about it without having surgery?

Many of the women and men I see whose gene pool didn’t bless them with high, ‘supermodel’ cheek bones or a strongly defined jaw and chin, are often concerned by the effects of ageing on their face as they enter their 40s and 50s.

One of the tell-tale signs as we age is the ‘crinkled’ appearance of the chin caused by a combination of skin texture changes, decrease of the fat in the area, and loss of bone. In those whose chin was always on the small side or recessed (as it is with many British Caucasians) this can be a particular concern.

Many clients who decide they need to tackle the effects of gravity head on if they want to age well, often have no idea what can be done about it, or fear that surgical chin implants may be the only answer.

If this is you, and you think surgery is a step too far to help address an ill-defined jawline, there is hope on the horizon. The great news is that inherited deficits, together with age-related changes to your jawline, can now be corrected with minimally invasive injectable fillers, thanks to the continually developing field of medical aesthetics.

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Results achieved with six treatment sessions over four years, using Voluma and Volux

The latest product addition to the marketleading brand Juvederm® is Volux, a nonpermanent, long lasting hyaluronic acid injectable gel, specifically formulated to add volume to the chin and definition to the jaw. I have achieved impressive results with this product and would highly recommend it to those who would like to ‘shape up’ in the lower face without succumbing to the surgeon’s knife.

For the best results with injectable fillers, you will need to visit an advanced medical practitioner with an artistic eye and a high level of experience to ensure you don’t look overdone. A razor-sharp jawline could be a real give-away to your friends that you have had treatment and look just as unnatural as someone with overdone lip fillers!

If you decide to take the plunge and recontour your jawline, one treatment session using Volux is expected to last between 18 and 24 months and could just tip the balance on the ageing scales leaving you feeling a more defined, yet very natural, younger version of you.

Call 029 2056 7096 to find out more or visit www.skinandfaceclinics.com Skin and Face Clinics The Coach House Llandaff Cardiff CF5 2DY

Be the best version of yourself...

NEW TO SKIN AND FACE CLINICS…

Worried about a saggy jawline and don’t want to have surgery to correct it?

There is now another option.

Juvederm® Volux is a non-permanent, long lasting hyaluronic acid injectable gel, specifically formulated to add volume and contour to the chin and jaw area, giving greater definition.

Call Skin and Face Clinics to book a consultation and find out more on: 029 2056 7096 We highly recommend you give this a try NOW! ALSO AVAILABLE Advanced injectable procedures ● Eight-point face lift ● Chin and jawline contouring ● Jawline reduction ● Tear trough correction ● Full-face rejuvenation ● Wrinkle-smoothing injections PLUS ● skinade® ● skin peels ● Micro-needling / Dermaroller® ● Lip filler ● Fire and Ice facials ● New Volite® treatment to improve skin quality and acne scarring

Recognised by Hello magazine, Advanced Nurse Practitioner Annie Cartwright, is raising the profile of medical aesthetics in Wales.

As Director of Skin and Face Clinics, Annie has been sharing her expertise at a national level to ensure cosmetic treatments in the UK are safe and effective.

She is dedicated to the safe delivery of advanced treatments, helping people to look and feel great by making them the best version of themselves.

Accredited by independent and impartial accreditation scheme Save Face as safe and qualified to carry out non-surgical cosmetic procedures.

Annie Cartwright MSc, RGN, IP Advanced Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner

Raising the profile of medical aesthetics in Wales Book a FREE consultation by calling 029 2056 7096 or visit www.skinandfaceclinics.com

HAIR & BEAUTY

Protecting your skin is of utmost importance in the summer, but there’s one patch of skin that is often overlooked...

LipS the

Brands are wising up to a demand for lip products that deliver vivid color but contain SPF and moisturising ingredients. So, take you pick from our four protective beauty buys that won’t dry out your lips this summer...

Chantecaille Lip Cristal contains vitamins A and C as well as SPF in a creamy formula to leave lips super hydrated, £42, Space NK

Clarins’ new Joli Rouge Lacquer has a rich vinyl shine and the indulgent feel of a balm, £22, Boots

beauty tricks and tips Hotter weather generally means smudged make-up, unless you act accordingly. Prudence Wade reveals the seasonal regime tweaks you need to think about The weather is finally heating up – just as you change your wardrobe to suit the finer weather, you need to switch up your beauty regime as well. It doesn’t necessarily have to mean lots of time and money, just a shift in what you prioritise, and the help of a few handy products.

Here’s how Isa Lavahun from Cosmetify thinks you should change your skincare and make-up routine to suit the rising temperatures...

Think about SPF If you don’t wear daily SPF all year around, summer is definitely the time to start thinking about it.

However, if you don’t want to put on regular sunscreen in the morning, Lavahun said: “Primer is a great place to start; it forms a base for the rest of your make-up, while smoothing the skin and creating a barrier between the skin’s natural oils and your foundation.”

You’re still able to apply your make-up flawlessly.

NARS Radiance primer SPF35, £29, Space NK

Infused with oils and a moisturising core to lock in shine, Dior Addict lipstick comes in 35 wonderful shades, £29, Debenhams

Get serious about exfoliating When you banish turtlenecks and tights to the back of your wardrobe, you need to put a bit more effort into keeping your skin looking and feeling healthy. That’s right; it’s exfoliation time.

“Regularly exfoliating helps your skin stay soft and smooth, prevents dry patches and makes removing hair that bit easier,” Lavahun explains. “NUXE Reve de Miel body scrub, infused with honey, not only smells delicious but gets rid of dead skin, to leave your body feeling nourished.”

Fresh Sugar Petal lip treatment uses sugar to prevent moisture loss and grapeseed oil to soothe lips, SPF 15, £19.50, John Lewis

Don’t forget your hair If you’re taking the time to protect your skin, it would make no sense to forget about your hair. “You should be using a treatment mask or conditioner to hydrate your locks twice a week, “ recommends Lavahun. PhytoPlage’s aftersun recovery spray will put some moisture back into your locks.

Phyto Phytoplage Sublime aftersun oil, £26.50, Look Fantastic Swimcap, £19, Philip Kingsley

Less is more Heavy foundation which has been a dream in the colder months won’t work as well, so Lavahun recommends the ‘less is more’ rule.

“Winter beauty products may be too heavy for the warmer weather, and a full face of make-up can clog up pores and feel hot on your face,” she explains.

This is why BB cream will be your new best friend: “They are lighter, have hydrating qualities and often contain SPF,” says Lavahun, who particularly likes Garnier’s BB cream, because it contains SPF 15.

NUXE Reve de Miel body scrub, £19.50, Look Fantastic

Garnier BB cream, £9.99, Superdrug

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE Dress by Lipsy

Spa spy...

T

Food is also taken seriously here offering something of a unique dining experience.

It aims to showcase the finest locallysourced ingredients while enjoying a threehour meal. It felt like bring back at home in Barcelona where dining is much more than just eating; it is about savouring delicious food, enjoying a fullbodied red wine and The best destination spas basking in the company.

ucked away in the middle of the Welsh countryside in Powys, The Lake Country House Hotel & Spa is a real hidden gem. From its stunning grounds and hotel to the attentive service, a stay in the hotel promises a lot. And it delivers too!

Waterproof your look Few things are more frustrating than applying a flawless face of make-up, only to have it melt off in the heat. Waterproof make-up might be a bit trickier to take off at the end of the day, but it’s the key to a long-lasting look. Waterproof mascara isn’t just for when you’re going through a break-up, it’s perfect for preventing any annoying summer smudges. Lavahun recommends the L’Oreal Paris X Fiber Xtreme Resist Waterproof Mascara to make sure there’s no chance of you looking bedraggled.

L’Oreal Paris false lash X fiber Xtreme Resist waterproof mascara, £11.99, Boots

...And set it too “As well as waterproofing your look with specific beauty products, you will also need to ensure your make-up stays in place, which is particularly important in the heat and humidity,” Lavahun says.

This is where setting sprays and fixing mists come to the rescue.

Lavahun recommends the cult classic Urban Decay All Nighter to keep everything in check.

Urban Decay All Nighter setting spray, £24, Look Fantastic

First impressions do matter and, from the moment you first spot range from space-age We started the fivethe signs for the place fantasies to gleaming course dinner (£45 near Llangammarch per person) with the Wells, you realise just temples of self-care, ‘amuse-bouche’, which how special this hotel staffed by spiritual teachers consisted of three is going to be. Set in its and body workers who different types of own 50 acres, you are bring a lifetime of learning, appetisers. Sitting on surrounded by nature its veranda enjoying and feel miles away wisdom and timethe views, a glass of from everything. As honoured tools to preserve champagne was the we spent a night in the mind, body and soul. perfect addition. This hotel during a sunny, Estel Farell-Roig checks out was followed by carrot early summer weekend, and coriander soup everything was nicely a favourite in Powys and then the starter – in bloom and looking slow-cooked salmon gorgeous. A walk with beetroot and around the grounds is a yogurt. Cooked to perfection, the salmon must and staff will provide you with guidance was exquisite and mixed perfectly with the and a small booklet on request. We loved the different consistencies of the beetroot feeling of being close to nature. and the yogurt. My dining companion and I Tradition and nature are at the heart of then had the sirloin of beef with Dauphinoise the hotel, which has individually-designed potatoes and carrots, which was full of bedrooms. We stayed in its pumphouse flavour and delicate. For dessert we opted room, situated in a corner of the second for the vanilla cheesecake with raspberries floor. It was luxurious and spacious, split and honeycomb together with the selection into two with a lounge and a bedroom area. of Welsh cheeses with chutney and biscuits Even in the room, you feel connected with – sharing desserts is a good option for those nature and removed from the stresses of wanting to try different dishes and make the everyday life as it is filled with light from memorable evening last longer. the big windows. It invites you to leave your phone behind, let the world slow down and enjoy a cup of tea and a biscuit in the bay window overlooking the grounds.

The spa is located a short walk away from the main hotel, next to the tranquil lake. It has a 15-metre swimming pool, a sauna and a steam room. It also features an outdoor hot tub overlooking the lake. Never crowded - at least, not during our stop-off we were able to truly relax, enjoying our own space. The facilities were clean and the staff went that extra mile to help. I had an express facial (£42, for 30 minutes), which includes a surprisingly long massage. Both gentle and firm, the facial left me feeling relaxed and pampered.

VERDICT: Part of the Pride of Britain Hotels group, The Lake Country House Hotel & Spa is renowned as a properly luxurious place to go hotel - and the spa upholds this reputation.

The staff are friendly and welcoming and the therapists are exceptional at what they do. The space is clean and bright, with that added opulence we all enjoy once in a while.

Treat yourself to a body treatment, a facial and then cap off your day with a spot of lunch or dinner.

A welcome day of solitude and sumptuous pampering!

*The Lake Country House Hotel & Spa Llangammarch Wells, Powys LD4 4BS • spa@lakecountryhouse.co.uk SWANSEA LIFE 27

A D V E R T I S E M E N T F E AT U R E

SUMMER 2019 STYLES TO MAKE YOU LOOK AND FEEL GOOD

T has been a successful first year for a salon which took up residence in the Sketty area of Swansea in 2018 and there is the promise of more to come.

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Morgan Lloyd Hair marked its first 12 months with a belated launch party and is now looking to build on the considerable impact it has had in that time.

This starts with the latest summer styles from a nine-strong team led by owner Morgan Lloyd, whose 14 years in the hairdressing business consists of managing a salon in Cardigan, becoming an NVQ Assessor, working in Swansea and Llanelli and gaining the prestigious role of brand warrior for GHD. Now owning his own business, he is relishing everything about it.

“I wanted to take a year to settle into the business and to see in which direction it was going,” said Morgan.

“So, with the first anniversary of opening approaching, I was able to give the salon a refit and then decided to have a launch party to say thank you to all of my customers.”

He was never going to miss the launch, even though he did receive a rather attractive alternative invitation.

THIS SUMMER’S LOOK "Braiding and hair accessories are massive this summer,” said Morgan.

“Creating new looks and including accessories like ribbons or jewellery is really on trend. Also, short, blunter bobs are highly fashionable and Morgan Lloyd Hair is the place to get them."

“I was invited to assist at The British Soap Awards, but I obviously could not miss my own launch party,although it was an honour to be asked," he said.

His focus, though, is on Morgan Lloyd Hair, which provides expertise in areas such as colouring, balayage, keratin straightening, hair extensions, hair up, blow dry, total restyles, wedding and prom hair.

Morgan and the team also cover a range of special occasions including photo-shoots and charity events.

Men’s hair is also fully catered for.

All salon services are carried out with the safety of customers of paramount importance to avoid any potential risk of allergic skin reactions.

ALL ABOUT THE CUSTOMER “We are very customer-centric as our customers are our advert and our brand,” said Morgan. "We always ensure our customers feel happy and cared for and leave the salon feeling as special as possible. We want our customers to feel that our stylists are the best they can be.

“Every time a customer enters the

salon they are always treated as if it is their first visit. They will always have a full consultation to ensure a mutual understanding of their hair needs today and in the future. This could include a colour change or a full restyling and our team have the full knowledge and expertise needed.”

After hours on Tuesdays is Academy Night there when Morgan and colleagues share their wealth of knowledge in-house to ensure high standards. He is keen to give two new hairdressers a head start and is now after applicants.

Three months after the business started, Morgan Lloyd Hair got a five star rating in the Good Salon Guide, but he doesn’t want to stop there.

“We are always evolving, we are always changing,” he said. “Plans for the next year are to grow the academy and I have exciting new plans for a blow dry bar. There will be a menu and customers can pick a blow dry from it.

“I can honestly say that the first year has been amazing and my passion is to now grow the business further.

MORGAN L L O Y D HAIR 6 Dillwyn Road | Sketty | Swansea | SA2 9AE | Tel: 01792 202 143 |

@MorganLloydhair

HAIR & BEAUTY

REAL WOMEN, WINNING LOOKS W ITH

C H R I S

H O W E L LS

Swansea-based international makeup artist and winner of the National Federation of Hairdressing’s Welsh Makeup Artist of the Year award, Chris Howells, gives a Swansea woman a new seasonal look for June.

As bridal season is well and truly upon us, I am going to share with you what is one of my favourite bridal looks.

This versatile bridal makeup is groomed, polished and really is timeless. This look also suits all skin tones and ages and once perfected, can be ramped up to include a smoky eye or a red lip easily.

On Grace, I started with skincare. This is the most important part of any makeup routine. It ensures the skin is hydrated or helps control oil if needed, and really helps with that elusive glow - from - within look. Hydrated skin enables the foundation to glide so that it is as sheer as possible without clinging to imperfections or sitting in patches across the complexion.

My favourite skin oil that I start with is Kjaer Weis “The Beautiful Oil”, a gorgeous hydrating, nourishing oil with no nasties. I followed with a nourishing eye cream. I like to use one with caffeine especially on the wedding day, in case of puffiness. My favourite is ReVive eye renewal serum. It contains arnica for dark circles and it also has real pearl to illuminate and brighten.

On the skin, I have used TouchinSol. It feels like honeymoon primer which also helps with glow and ensuring make-up really lasts. Then, using the flat toped foundation brush, I applied an amazing Tinted Oil by Kosas Beauty.

This is incredible. A small amount looks like it won’t cover anything but it really has a lot of punch, leaving the skin beautifully dewy without leaving any oily residue. I then applied a little concealer to any imperfections, around the nose and under the eyes. I applied NYX ‘Can’t stop, won’t Stop’ concealer with the concealer brush and set it with Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder. Apply concealer only where it’s needed in small amounts and press it in with your ring finger. Using Kosas Cosmetics cream blush and highlight in shade Papaya I applied the blush with the Cream Contour Brush to the apples of the cheeks and blended out, leaving the most beautiful flush. Then I set the complexion using the Powder Brush and Hourglass Veil powder in a press and roll motion all over the face.

I applied Urban Decay Primer Potion to the lids giving a beautiful base for

30 SWANSEA LIFE

eye shadow that will last all day. I used the All Over Eyeshadow Brush and applied Bite Beauty Multi-stick in Crème Caramel over the lid, intensifying into the socket blending out and leaving a seamless finish. Then using the Fluffy Eyeshadow brush, I applied Cover FX Shimmer veil in Soleil to the inner corner of the eye and buffed in the edges.

I then took the Smudge Brush and applied the Crème Caramel along the bottom lash line and blended out leaving the intensity at the eye edge fading out.

I used Kat Von D cream Liner in black to tight-line the upper lashes using a flat brush. Applying Kjaer Weis Volumising Mascara onto curled lashes and fanning the lashes before setting really opens up the eye. I used Salon Systems Brow wax and powder palettes to emphasize the brow shape and density and the brow mascara to set the brows. Taking the Angled Powder Brush to sculpt the cheekbones with Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow, I then applied the Highlight from the Kosas Cosmetics cheek palette to the high points of the face, bridge of the nose, top lip and brow bone, giving the look luminosity.

Finally, I used Bite Beauty Lip Pencil in shade #62 to line the lips perfectly and taking lip crayon in Sugarcane, I filled in the lip, then using the Lip Brush applied a little Lip Gloss in Flat White just to the centre of the lips. I later made the lip richer by applying Lip Crayon in Peche over the lip and brushing in.

*All brushes used are all from the Complete Makeup Brush Collection available at: www.walfordrichardsdesigns. co.uk and are now available individually as well as in a 12 brush set. Chris is available for all your makeup needs, personal makeup shopping, evening makeup, event makeup, wedding make-up or just a special occasion. Some 2019 dates still available.

Makeup lessons are also available.

Contact @ chrishowells_uk@yahoo.co.uk for details.

All behind the scenes photography by James Richards Main images by Ryan Bater All jewellery

by Swansea designer Gill Clement

Celebrating 20 years in business Winning awards, accreditation, experience and great knowledge along the way.

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HAIR & BEAUTY

no need for frizz or faded look this

r e m Sum Katie Wright catches up with three industry experts, who reveal how to protect your locks whether you’re at home or abroad

‘You look well’ is the ultimate compliment when you return from a two-week tropical holiday with a beautifully bronzed complexion. Our skin may be glowing, but our hair? That’s usually another story.

“The sun and warmer climates can dry out the hair and cause split ends, and for many of us, leave hair frizzy and difficult to style,” says Kerry Capewell, in-house hairdresser and technical adviser for Naturtint UK.

Here, three experts offer their advice for keeping your locks looking lush this summer...

1. Cover up

“In the same way you change your skincare in the warmer months, the same should apply for your haircare,” says Belle Cannan, co-founder of Salon Sloane.

“Wear a hat as often as possible in the sun or, if you have longer hair, wear it in a bun so that much of the hair is covered,” says Capewell.

“Like with our skin, the sun can also damage our hair and scalp, so I advise my clients to use styling products with an SPF for extra protection as the weather heats up.

“The new Sisley protective hair fluid protects against the harmful effects of the sun, sea and chlorine and can be applied to dry or damp hair before sun exposure.”

“Summer holidays often mean time spent in the sea and the pool. Chlorine can significantly affect coloured hair, dulling blondes, reducing reds and even producing unsightly green tones.”

Sally-Ann Tarver, consultant trichologist at the Cotswold Trichology Centre, advises: “Apply a nutrient rich hair oil in the morning before you head to the beach to protect your hair from the sun, sea salt and chlorine, then wash it out when you return in the afternoon.”

Don’t we know it. Plus, with summers getting hotter at home, even a staycation can result in faded, frazzled hair.

“The sun can lighten hair and, in the case of coloured hair, fade the intensity of the shade significantly,” Capewell warns.

3. Try Co-washing

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

“Remember, if you take the time to protect your hair before and during your holiday, less time is needed to repair your hair afterwards,” she says.

Much like using sunscreen and sitting under a umbrella to protect your skin, your hair needs some TLC, too.

32 SWANSEA LIFE

2. SPF for your strands

“If you’re spending time in the pool, wet your hair in the shower before you go for a swim. This ensures that the hair is saturated with unchlorinated water first.

“Oh, and be sure to rinse your hair before you settle back down on your sunbed.”

“To keep your hair extra moisturised, why not try co-washing?” says Cannan. This means occasionally skipping shampoo and only using a conditioner to keep hair super-hydrated.

“Or, if you’re not willing to part with your favourite shampoo, add in a deep conditioning treatment once a week to lock in moisture.”

Buy before you fly: These protective products are like sunscreen for your hair

Label.m Sun Edition travel collection, £24.95 Great Lengths travel set, £14.95, available in salons (for stockists visit greatlengthshair.co.uk)

Joico Defy Damage protective shampoo, £17.50, LookFantastic

4. Down your tools

Philip Kingsley after-sun scalp mask, £20

“If you’re using heated styling tools in the evening, pop them on a lower heat as it’s less harsh and intense to the hair - a higher heat opens the cuticles, allowing essential moisture to escape,” Capewell says.

“Heat protectants, conditioning sprays and leave-in conditioners are also great, as they behave as a barrier between the hair and the heat, and restore lost moisture.”

Tarver thinks you should go one step further: “Do your hair a favour, give it a holiday away from the intense heat and leave your straighteners at home.”

5. Invest in a treatment

Rita Hazan lock and block protective spray, £20, Selfridges

Whether as a preventative measure to make sure your locks are in tip-top condition before you go away, or as an SOS measure when you return, a salon-strength treatment can make a huge difference.

Sisley protective hair fluid, £69

Batiste dry shampoo and colour protect, £3.99, Superdrug

“Investing in a hair mask is essential to help hair keep its moisture and shine, and to prevent breakage – overall, it will regenerate the hair,” says Cannan.

6. Soothe your scalp “If, despite your best efforts, you do catch the sun and end up with a flaky scalp, coconut oil is the answer,” Tarver says.

“Slather it on, rub it in and leave it on for an hour or more. When you wash your hair, the scale should just lift off.

“Shampoo your hair twice to remove the oil and clear your scalp of flakes. Combing through your conditioner before and during rinsing also helps to remove flakes from your hair.”

Naturtint anti-ageing CC cream, £8.49, Holland and Barrett

Schwarzkopf Professional BC Bonacure sun protect travel kit, £15.70, Escentual

SWANSEA LIFE 33

HAIR & BEAUTY

Makeover!

W ITH

L ARA

JOHNSON

Stylist and Mumbles salon owner Lara Johnson shares her best insider tips in her monthly column

C o l o ur stateme n t Model: Lilly Lee Occupation: Student

Lilly says...

I have had long hair for as long as I can remember and really felt the need for a change. I definitely wanted something far more directional and much shorter. I was just bored and want to go into summer feeling energised! I love what the team has done. The cut is so much fun and everybody loves it and the colour makes my hair look so much healthier.

Lara Johnson Lifestyle says...

Lilly was just fed up of her hair. It had been the same since childhood. She talked about going very short but was very indecisive. At the salon we live by the philosophy that ‘a hair cut isn’t what you cut off but what you leave on’. We can always cut more off! We went for a directional shape that has shorter internal shape, but with length throughout the perimeter with loads of texture and movement. We actually loved Lilly’s natural hair colour so rather than trying to change it, we enhanced it. We took Lilly’s natural dark tones and added depth and shine throughout. We finished Lilly’s hair with Sebastian Professional products to create both texture and shine.

34 SWANSEA LIFE

ter af

B e f o re ...

...

Step by step...

T r ip l e - P l ait B u n This is a dressing that is versatile enough to be worn every day or for a special occasion. You can accessorise to really make it stand out. Perfect for weddings and summer events. .Difficulty level? Medium. It may take a little practice to get the plaiting, but don’t worry if it is a little loose as it adds to the look.

Ideal hair length? Medium to long.

Assistance needed? A friend could be handy until you get the hang of it.

Accessories? Pair this style with your favourite headband and pin flowers in between the buns to create a fresh and relaxed look.

Try this: If you take a holiday on the beach this summer apply some UV hair protector (which also makes it easier to style) when you dress it. It will help to stop your hair becoming damaged. When you take it out it will have beach natural looking waves.

What you need

Before...

•

Clear hair bands

•

Hair grips that match your hair colour

•

Hairspray (optional)

1

. r.. te af

1

Divide the hair into three ponytails and secure with bands.

2

Plait each of the ponytails. We have used a three-strand plait, but any type will work giving different textures.

3 4

Secure the end of each ponytail with a band.

5

Tuck in the ends with a grip and gently loosen to make the plait softer.

Twist each plait around the base of the ponytail to creat a bun. Secure each end with a pin or grip. Grip or pin each bun a couple more time to keep it secure.

2

3

4

5

SWANSEA LIFE 35

HAIR & BEAUTY

Fake-tan

fails...

Eight common fake-tan mistakes and how to avoid them, because nobody wants streaky skin or stained bed sheets, says Katie Wright

When a natural tan isn’t an option, fake tan is an absolute godsend for giving your limbs that just-spent-a-week-in-Santorini glow.

But when sunless tanning goes wrong, it really goes wrong. We’re talking brown streaks, dark patches, a face that doesn’t match your body....

Here are eight self-tan fails and expert advice on how to avoid them...

1. Your tan is too dark

“If your overall colour is too dark, the quickest way of lightening it up is to lift off a layer by sitting in a warm bath for 10 minutes,” says Amanda Harrington, who has just launched a range of products to use at home.

“Then I would go in with a body scrub to wash the body. Finish this process by applying moisturiser to lock in that new-found colour.

If the tan is super dark, repeat this process a few hours later.”

2. Your tan is too light

“If you want to go darker, don’t be tempted to layer even more product on straight away, it won’t take your shade deeper and may clog up the work you’ve already done,” says Carly Hobbs, of Sienna X brand. “The best thing to do, is allow your light layer of tan to develop, rinse it off completely, then go in again. Do your base tan, then add on with a gradual tanner every day, to build things up beautifully.”  Sienna X Q10 tinted self tan mist, £21.99  Superdrug; Tancream premium sun protection, £44.95 36 SWANSEA LIFE

3. Your tan sweats off

“Common hot tan erasers are trainer socks, bikinis and bras – they rub where things get extra warm,” explains Hobbs. “To prevent this from happening, work a little translucent make-up setting powder over sweaty areas to keep your glow safe.”

4. You get spots

Post-tan, if you notice spots all over your legs, don’t stress – this means you’ve applied your fake tan too soon after shaving.

“De-fuzz at least 12 hours pre-tanning, as it allows your skin to calm down,” said Hobbs.

5. Your tan is streaky

Using your hands can leave invisible lines in your tan that show as streaking once it has settled. “Streaks can happen when you don’t fully wash off your guide colour – always rinse until the water runs clear, then pat dry,” Hobbs recommends. “If your tan is streaky all over, head to the gym – dive into the swimming pool to use the chlorine to start the removal process!”

There are now a variety of products you can use to tackle streaks, like Sienna X tanning eraser and Solait tan correcting sponges. “Or, if you want a DIY option, mix a bit of lemon with baking powder,” says Potter.  Sienna X Eraser self tan remover and Mitt, £19.99, Superdrug

6. You’ve got some darker patches

Before applying, make sure your skin is as smooth as possible, as self-tan is attracted to rough, drier areas.

“The Solait dual-action exfoliating mitt is great to use in the shower first. Drier skin areas which we all have hiding away will absorb tan ingredients deeper than any other areas,” says Michaella Bolder, St Tropez skin finishing expert. “Apply an oil free moisturiser on your hands, wrists, elbows, knees, feet and ankles, before you load up your mitt with tan.”  St. Tropez Purity bronzing water gel, £22, Boots

7. Your tan fades too quickly “Normally this starts with the face and hands, as you wash these more regularly,” says Harrington. “Avoid using retinol and enzyme-based skincare that lifts and rapidly exfoliates the skin. Keep your tan topped up with a gradual tan.”

 Amanda Harrington London body mousse natural rose, £36 and Big Body brush, £35, Harvey Nichols

8. Stained clothes or bed sheets

“Tan transfer on your clothes or sheets is from the guide colour that gives some tanning agents an immediate colour when you apply it,” Bolder explains.

“However, you can now prevent this by using a colourless tanning product, such as the St Tropez Purity bronzing water gel or mousse.”

Defy Time Medical cosMetic clinic

Dr Alan Jones

TIMELESS BEAUTY

Visit Dr Alan and his staff at Defy Time Medical Cosmetic Clinic in Swansea. He has 30 years experience as a GP, 18 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

ACHIEVE A NATURAL, YOUNGER LOOKING, MORE FLAWLESS YOU FREE PERSONAL & CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATIONS • PRIVATE CAR PARK

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

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

ASK

DR. CHARLOTTE

changing minds For many, the appearance of sunny dry weather often lifts one’s spirits and puts a spring in the step. But for those with depression, they may well not feel or experience the same.

WHAT IS DEPRESSION? It is a condition where an individual’s mood is low most of the time and impacting on their day to day life. Many people have times when pressures or other problems can make them feel low. But people with depression are consistently feeling sad.

The severity of depression can vary across a spectrum from mild symptoms through to very severe symptoms. Each individual is different. The reasons why they feel low are usually very different (eg. reaction to difficult events, ill health, after a baby, hormonal changes with periods or around menopause or peri menopause, although some simply cannot identify any reason).

Each person needs a tailored management plan as one size definitely doesn’t fit all when it comes to managing depression.

Mental health is often seen as a taboo subject but with Princes William and Harry recently opening up again about the struggles they have been through, and celebrities and other key national figures also highlighting mental health issues, there is more awareness and acceptance of how important it is to properly treat mental health conditions like depression. Sketty GP and Swansea Life doctor Charlotte Jones reports....

SYMPTOMS People can have a variety of symptoms which may be there all or some of the time and can vary wildly in intensity. Symptoms can include:  Feeling low or sad all of day or different parts of days  Lack of interest in activities of daily living, personal care, hobbies  Loss of concentration  Feeling guilty and worthless  Low self esteem  Poor sleep patterns eg. difficulty getting to sleep, waking early  Low energy levels  Lack of enjoyment of things you usually enjoy  Withdrawing from social activities  Loss of sexual libido  Unexplained physical symptoms  Feelings of wanting to hurt oneself and thinking of death and suicide etc

40 SWANSEA LIFE

WHAT IS AVAILABLE IF YOU HAVE DEPRESSIOn?  Support from mental health charities such as Mind Cymru, Depression Alliance etc can be enormously beneficial .They have lots of great patient information advice leaflets and often provide advice lines and local support groups  Mindfulness and stress management – the Health Board offers an excellent “Living Life Well” service which patients have told me is excellent . Check out living.lifewell@wales. nhs.uk or ring 07967 612246  Counselling – there are often long delays to access NHS counselling but there are many charities / voluntary sector organisations supporting the NHS in Wales delivering counselling and your GP can refer you to the primary care mental health liaison team who will assess your condition and identify avenues of support / input that could help.

In addition, there is free to access online cognitive behavioural therapy through a website called “Living Life To The Full”. This is an online modular based programme.

In Swansea we are also lucky to have access to a low cost psychological therapy service (which patients can access via contacting the Lighthouse Clinic directly) and teenagers can access help through the InfoNation drop-in service.

In addition, there are many self-help books available but Book Prescription Wales has a list of suggested books for many mental health conditions recommended by psychologists, psychiatrists and counsellors and your GP can prescribe one of these for you.

There are many other great organisations out there supporting people with depression, too many to include here but NHSDW/111 and your GP surgery can signpost you to other local services too.  Medication – there are a large number of medications available for depression from your GP (and/or psychiatrist if you are under their care).

6

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Regular exercise and some healthy food swaps can make a big difference to long-term heart health, a nutritionist tells Liz Connor

simple lifestyle tips to lower cholesterol

Raised cholesterol affects over half of UK adults – and many are completely unaware of it.

While high cholesterol itself doesn’t usually cause any symptoms, it’s linked with an increased risk of a number of major diseases, including heart disease.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that’s found naturally in the blood, and it isn’t always bad news.

In fact, we need cholesterol for our bodies to function healthily. But there are different types, and it only becomes a problem when levels of LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol are too high.

LDL is what’s known as ‘bad’ cholesterol. If there’s too much LDL cholesterol in the body, it can slowly build up and clog in the arteries, making it difficult for blood to flow.

HDL (high density lipoprotein) cholesterol, meanwhile, is the ‘good’ type.

This helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and return it to the liver, where it’s broken down and passed out of the body.

Anyone can have high cholesterol, even if you’re young and slim (sometimes it’s genetic), and it can be diagnosed by your GP with a simple blood test.

If you’re diagnosed with high cholesterol, your GP may prescribe medication such as statins, but making simple lifestyle changes can help too.

Nutritionist Sarah Franciosi says: “By taking simple steps towards a healthier diet and lifestyle, you can help to lower your cholesterol. For example, one of the most common causes of high cholesterol in people in the UK is eating too much saturated fat, so it’s a good idea to try and cut that out for better health.”

less fat than frying, so you can also cook up a storm with some of your favourite foods while cutting back on saturated fats.

3. Eat more fruit and veg There’s no two ways about it, eating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day is one of the easiest ways to improve your overall health. Not only are they a good source of vitamins and minerals, including folate, vitamin C and potassium, but many are also packed with dietary fibre, which can help to keep your gut healthy. Some fruit and veg contain soluble fibre which can help lower cholesterol, but oats, beans, peas, lentils and chickpeas contain it too, so you can keep it interesting by mixing up your plate with lots of different foods.

4. Drink in moderation

Sarah Franciosi offers her six top tips for naturally lowering your cholesterol this summer...

1. Stay active Throwing yourself into a sweaty gym session after a busy day at the office isn’t just a great tonic for stress, studies have also found that an active lifestyle can help lower cholesterol levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, five times a week or more.

2. Switch to healthier cooking methods Frying foods is quick and easy but it can destroy some of the vitamins in veggies – and if you chuck a knob of butter into the pan, this can add to your daily saturated fat count.

Grilling, steaming, boiling and baking use

Studies suggest that binge-drinking frequently can put you at higher risk of conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

5. Swap out saturated fats Saturated fat is found in high-fat dairy foods such as cream, whole milk, hard cheese, butter, as well as in fatty cuts of meat and in cakes, biscuits and pastries.

Unsaturated fat is better for your heart health and is found in a wide range of tasty and versatile foods, including oily fish – like salmon, mackerel and herring – nuts, seeds and vegetable oils, and spreads made from rapeseed and olive oil.

6. Try lowcholesterol alternatives There are now plenty of these about – such as buttery spreads, cheese and yogurts.

If you’re concerned about your cholesterol levels, speak to your GP, and anyone aged 40-74 can get their cholesterol measured as part of their routine NHS health checks.

SWANSEA LIFE 41

HEALTH & WELLBEING

get on your

bike

Interested in keeping fit, having fun and raising money for charity?

Then sign up for this year’s Gower Bike Ride on July 20 and 21.

Swansea Life takes a look at the event and the benefits of cycling

From feeling happier to protecting your heart, we look at the health and fitness benefits of cycling

1. It may help you to live longer It should come as no big surprise that low levels of physical activity have been linked to a myriad of serious and life-threatening health conditions, and a cycle a day can be one of the most gentle and enjoyable ways to get moving.

There’s lots of evidence to suggest that cycling can promote long life. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, conducted on over 80,000 British adults, found that 42 SWANSEA LIFE

cycling participation produced a significant reduction in causes of mortality – including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer.

Another study, published in the British Medical Journal, found that commuters who cycled had a 52% lower risk of dying from heart disease, and 40% lower risk of dying from cancer than those that didn’t.

2. You can lose weight Struggling to lose those stubborn extra pounds? It might be time to pocket the car keys and invest in a bike. Cycling is a great way to shed the calories, build muscles in the lower body and gradually improve cardiovascular fitness at a sustainable pace.

Cycling also packs on lean muscle – particularity in the legs. When your foot hits the downstroke, you use a fiery combination of the glutes in the buttocks, the quadriceps in the thighs, and the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles in the calves to propel you forward.

As you backstroke the wheel back into position, the body then relies on the hamstrings in the back of the thighs and the flexor muscles in the front of the hips to keep you in motion, creating a total lower-body workout. Perhaps best of all, it’s very lowimpact, which means it’s much easier on the knees than running. You can get all of the benefits of a challenging workout without straining your joints.

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3. You’ll sleep better We all know there’s nothing worse than staring at the ceiling in the early hours of the morning, willing sleep to come. So next time insomnia strikes, think about cycling your commute home instead. Cycling can be tiring work and it has been shown to have a significant positive effect on those who suffer with sleep issues.

Just as little as 20-30 minutes of cycling on alternate days is enough to have a significant impact on sleep quality.

Getting enough sleep is vital for overall health, and plays a role in improving your mood and balancing your hormone levels, while ongoing sleep deficiency is linked to an increased risk of conditions including heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke.

4. It can boost your mood If you’re looking for a way to lift your spirits, cycling could be just the tonic. It’s basically an alternative way to achieve what is known as ‘runner’s high’. The euphoria you feel after a rigorous cycle is all down to the exercise-induced release of endorphins within your body, which are not only potent pain relievers, but also help to boost your mood. Cycling is also an effective way to shake off stress; exercising burns off the excess adrenaline you’ve built up during the day’s challenges, while slowing down the production of the stress hormone cortisol.

5. Better heart health Cycling is a cardiovascular activity, making it a thorough workout for the heart. Like any form of aerobic exercise, it also increases the presence of good cholesterol in the body, whose job is to transport fat away from arteries. In fact, The British Medical Association found that cycling just 20 miles a week can slash your risk of coronary heart disease in half, when compared with staying sedentary.

To add to its merit, cycling is also one of the most enjoyable forms of exercise you can find. As with most things, long bike rides are best done with friends. So if you’re looking to build your physical fitness, why not take on a big cycling challenge? Not only does some company make for a more interesting ride, but you’ll all share the effort, help keep each other motivated and have fun along the way.

For more than 30 years, the Gower Bike Ride has been part of the Swansea summer calendar. Everyone at White Rock Events was delighted that we were able to “save” the event last year. We would like to thank Cycle Solutions, The Evening Post and Wales Online for their support and to the many other companies and individuals who came together to make the day possible. Last year, from entry fees, over £2,500 was donated to the Wales Air Ambulance via the Evening Post.

Cycle Solutions which sponsored the Ride last year are back again in 2019 and we will be working with the Evening Post and WalesOnline. The nominated charities are: Duchenne UK, Parkinsons UK and Lupus UK. We hope that the event history of supporting charity continues, but any such support is at the discretion of each rider.

We do want to encourage as many people as possible and so this year have introduced a 12-mile route in addition to the more traditional 35-mile distance. Safety will always be a major concern and we strongly recommend that you wear a helmet. Sorry, no helmet – no insurance cover.

The event never has been and never will be a race. We want you to enjoy the day and atmosphere. For the 35mile route, our lunch stop will be at Llanrhidian Primary School, which will be hosting a barbecue to raise money for a new defibrillator for the village.

Gower is not flat, but it does have some of the most fantastic scenery anywhere in the UK. We believe that 35 miles represents an achievable challenge to the recreational rider.

We know that many riders have started using this event as part of their progression to more regular cycling.

We concentrate the entire event throughout Gower and our riding marshals, so popular in 2018, return again this year. There will be a host of support along the route, but remember the event takes place on open roads so follow the Highway Code.

In the week before the ride you will receive a full rider pack, giving full details including where and when you can sign in on the day, all the details of the support along the route, and much more.

FACTFILE: Junior Gower Gower Bike Bike Ride: Ride: Date: Saturday, July 20 Distance: 8 miles around the bay Start time: 11am Entry fee: £12 On-the-day entry: £20

Date: Sunday, July 21 Distance: 12 or 35 miles around Gower Start Time: 8am-8.30am Entry fee: £12 On-the-day entry: £20

Visit: gowerbikeride.co.uk

SWANSEA LIFE 43

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BRIDE

real wedding Jessica Griffin and Stefan Jenkins

Network marketer and support worker Jessica Griffin, 25, and support worker team leader Stefan Jenkins, 23, from Carway in Kidwelly, married in a Welsh/Italian ceremony at Llanelli’s Stradey Park Hotel & Spa. PETER SLEE chatted to them about their big day The proposal It was December and Stef mentioned we were going out for food on the 18th but I didn’t know where and he told me to dress up and look nice – to which I replied: “Don’t I always look nice?” We travelled to Mumbles where we were overlooking the bay with the water flying high. He had brought me to Castellmare. We walked in and it was lovely: a home-run Italian restaurant business (on that note, I love Italian food) so we were definitely in for a good night. We were so full and I was totally ready to go home, until he said “I haven’t finished yet,” and went into his pocket to bring out an A4 piece of paper with our life story on which he read to me. I was, of course, totally emotional. He then went down

on one knee and asked me to marry him. The first thing I said was: “ Get up!” But of course, I replied with YES! And he put the ring on which was absolutely stunning.

beautiful flowers ever made by Eve Francesca.

They were seriously out of this world. We had the talented Nia Davies playing Welsh and Italian songs from her incredible harp.

Theme

Wedding dress

Our wedding theme was always going to be Welsh as I’m a proud Welshy. But I also wanted an Italian feel to it,too, as Stef’s mother’s side is Italian and like I said, I love the food! So our favours were Welsh cakes which were done by his amazing nanna and lemoncello shots from his Italian uncle.

Due to our wedding being in April, when greenery is not too much in abundance, we brought in the colour of coral as it was going into summer from spring. We had the most

Well, all brides are meant to just have one dress but I wanted to be different so I had a day dress and evening dress. I am so grateful I was able to do that. My day dress was Enzoani from Rowberry’s which was fitted, elegant and had a big trail, I loved it! But then I went to Samantha K’s and she was so lovely and friendly I bought a second one! I had always wanted a backless dress and something I was able to dance the night away in. It fitted the bill exactly.

BRIDE

Why the venue?

Bridal party

We wanted somewhere close to home for all our family members to attend. My sister got married at Stradey Park Hotel & Spa many moons ago and the service was outstanding and I have always remembered that. When it was time for Stef and I to choose, Stradey Park was the first place we went to and we both fell in love with it. Since a young age, I have always wanted a princess-style castle which Stradey Park gave us.

My bridal party were the best ever. They absolutely do mean the world to me. I had my sister Sam as my maid of honour and my best friend Dean as my man of honour.

How different is that? My best friend Emily who I have known from the age of three, my best friend Gabrielle and my niece Macy as bridesmaids and my niece Lilly as a flower girl. I had my nephew Callum and Stef’s cousins, Santino and Rocco as pageboys.

They all did a great job and I am so proud of them. Even the speeches from Sam, Dean and Emily where fab! All I did was cry and laugh!

Morning beauty prep I had Jenna Kelly as my makeup artist and Nicola Anderson as the bridesmaids’ makeup artist. They were both fabulous. We all had Claire Louise doing our hair and she also helped me get ready with my dress, shoes and jewellery, as did my mam.

Pictures: Pure Creation Photography

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Photographer and videographer We completely feel we had the best photographer and videographer. Rob and Sarah from Pure Creations did the most gorgeous photos ever. John Mark from John Mark films was so lovely. He made us feel we could be ourselves which just helped relax us all day.

Favourite part Stef loved the moment when I walked down the aisle. Seeing me smile was just amazing and he instantly felt emotional. That’s a moment I will treasure forever and I knew from then we would enter a new chapter in life together.

My favourite part was seeing Stef’s face when he put my ring on my finger, just after saying the wrong words which made everyone laugh.

But then, you have to have some laughter in a wedding. It completely melted my heart that I knew I was going to spend my life with the man of my dreams, the man that supports and stands by me.

Want to see your wedding in Swansea Life or WM magazine?

We are always looking for beautifully photographed events to feature.

What we’re looking for: We’ll want to see hi-res photographs of the bride getting ready, bouquets, floral arrangements, and décor, the vow exchange, first dance, the wedding cake, portraits of the couple and wedding party, and your guests having a great time. We’re always excited to see real couples’ cool, inventive ideas, so please include as many detailed shots as possible. Tell us a bit about yourselves and your wedding as well – maybe you wore your mother’s gown, or drew inspiration from a favourite film. One thing, you’ll need the official ok from your cameraman for us to use the images.

Where to send it: email all of the information above to peter.slee@reachplc.com

SWANSEA LIFE 47

BRIDE

Olwen and Gavin Madge

real wedding A fun-filled party in a beautiful country house This Cross Hands couple planned an outdoor ceremony at family-run Broadway Country House, in Laugharne. Bad weather scuppered their plans but failed to dampen their spirits, as the couple moved indoors to begin a beautiful day infused with music, love and laughter.

Steal theIR style...

Venue: Broadway Country House www.broadwaycountryhouse.co.uk Photographer: Michelle Huggleston 07811 609680 www.michellehuggleston.com Bride’s dress: Sally White Bride, Narberth 01834 4869341 Makeup: Farhana Ali 07904 290791 Bridesmaids’ dresses: ASOS Groom’s suit: Dyfed menswear www.dyfedmenswear.co.uk Wedding cake: Elin John 07899 772852 Flowers: Pinc Llandeilo, Nia Prytherch 01558 824515 Entertainment: Tom Collins Band Hair: Sarah Louise Carmody 07531 998199 Nails and eyebrows: Megan Jones, AURA 07805 765771

48 SWANSEA LIFE

SWANSEA LIFE 49

BRIDE

GO RETRO STYLE Second wedding, perhaps? This embellished veil by Joyce Jackson, £120, is perfect for older brides or those who don’t want a floor-length veil to block the focus of their beautiful gown. Its birdcaging and hand-beaded floral details hints of the 1950s for a vintage feel. www.laceandfavour.com

SOMETHINg BLUE It can be tricky to figure out fresh ways to incorporate time-honoured wedding traditions. This Glam and Soul anklet from Thomas Sabo, £45, has a single turquoise gem for a subtle and modern way to rock the ‘something blue’

your wedding

notebook inspiration for brides

TEAM BRIDE Satin robes look beautiful in ‘getting ready’ pictures and they will make the perfect gifts for your leading ladies. We love this embroidered bridesmaid robe, £28, from Lipsy.

ENDLESS LOVE Husbands-to-be can struggle to buy a wedding present... sometimes they just need a little inspiration...

Links of London ‘Endless Love’ silver heart bracelet, £350

his AND hers With the big day approaching, it’s time to get down to the little details and what better way to get organised than with a wedding planning notebook? These personalised bride and groom books will help prompt your partner to set his ideas in stone. www.notonthehighstreet.com, £16.99

HIGH STREET OPTION Dresses and their price tags can be the cause of much anxiety, but if you look to the high street it’s possible to find an elegant option without breaking the bank. We love this simple Bardot-inspired wedding dress from Monsoon, £249, with matching bridesmaid tie-back midis, £130. Oozing with style and sophistication.

50 SWANSEA LIFE

PrETTY FLATS Your wedding day outfit is not complete without some extremely comfy flats to change into at the end of the day. This pretty pair from Dune, £99, will also enhance any honeymoon outfits.

g in ew ks i V n ur ri Yo l & d r a o y F g me a t S n & di ne inclu i D 9 e, in t £14 W us J

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BRIDE

■ Image: Marc Smith Photography

Help! I’m planning a wedding and don’t know where to start They asked, you said yes and now you’re floating on a cloud of engagement bliss. But when you finally hit the ground don’t be surprised to find yourself slightly overwhelmed by the reality of actually planning a wedding. Forget any party you’ve ever organised; this is a different kettle of fish altogether. From worries about weather to escalating costs and catering questions to flowers, dresses and photographers, there’s a never ending ‘to do’ list and you’re just at the start. To help keep you on track (and from losing your mind), Swansea wedding PR specialist Shakira Obaid shows how a little attention to detail and a lot of organised thinking will ensure you make it from here to your big day in one piece and without making too many mistakes The wedding industry is worth a whopping £10bn to the UK economy, with 221,169 weddings taking place in England and Wales in 2018.

The age old tradition of ‘tying the knot’ remains an important part of British culture. But increasingly, couples are looking to inject some 21st-century cool into their special day. With the likes of Meghan and Harry flying the flag for breaking traditions, couples are no longer bound by tradition. They are free to embrace the endless inspiration that is easily accessible thanks to the internet and the infamous Pinterest.

Putting your own stamp on the big day is increasingly important. Flexibility and creativity in the wedding planning is key.

Here’s some of the trends that are set to continue to take the 2019/2020 wedding season by storm.

■ ‘Snap’ that: Social media is the modern-day equivalent of ‘keeping up with the Jones’. Social media is driving couples to spend more on the finishing touches

and ‘insta worthy’ spaces. According to a survey, an average of 3,400 photos are taken by wedding guests alone on the wedding day and 60% of brides will use social media on their wedding day. Some 30% of couples considered what their guests would post on socials when planning the big day!

■ Modern convenience: Only 26% opt for a church with everyone else now opting for a venue that takes care of the ceremony, drinks reception and reception. In line with the disregard for tradition, couples want a modern venue, not an old fashioned ‘grand castle’.

They want a venue that offers flexibility to deliver on their unique ideas. They want everything taken care of and experts on hand.

■ One day just isn’t enough: According to Bridebook.co.uk 23% more couples (compared with five years ago) are choosing to extend the celebrations into a two- to three-day experience. They want post-wedding brunches (did somebody say avocado and smoked

salmon?) and pre-wedding pamper parties/meet and greets. Look for a venue that has options on offer to make your wedding a ‘mini break’.

■ Fork on your fork matters: Millennials want to know the provenance of the ingredients, with an empathises on organic, local produce. They expect freshly-prepared dishes and authentic food.

It’s all the rage to be a foodie. They get excited about the canape select, appreciate extravagant wedding breakfasts and want to offer quirky street food-style buffets.

When creating your dream day, the possibilities are endless. Seek advice from the experts, there are so many amazing suppliers in the Welsh wedding industry and the best way to meet them is to research and attend local wedding fayres as your first port of call, or ask your venue for a recommended supplier list. But remember, the only thing that really matters is love. And try to stick within your budget and create a day that is right for you.

SWANSEA LIFE 55

FA L L I N LOV E W I T H C E LT I C MANOR

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Wedding Open Evening Friday 2nd August 2019 from 6pm Stradey Park Hotel & Spa If you are recently engaged or planning your wedding, come along and view all our award winning wedding venue has to offer.

Join us for canapés & arrival drinks Wine Tasting Enjoy live entertainment View our award winning Parc spa View our Bridal suite & accommodation Our wedding co-ordinators will be on hand to discuss all your wedding needs

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FOOD & DRINK

THRILL OF THE GRILL:

Five reds to fire up the taste bUds ready for the barbecue season Sam Wylie-Harris sources some top drops to enjoy outdoors with those meats and skewers.

The Big Gun Spanish red, Central Spain (£5.49, Aldi, Gorseinon)

Home cooking

Gorseinon’s Sian Day

with

A deliciously simple recipe for June

A crowd-pleasing fruit bomb that’s ‘big’ on flavour, powerful, heady aromas of blackberry fruits spiked with pepper meld with a sweet sun-drenched juiciness that floods the palate.

A tempranillo blend, the sweetish, jammy finish keeps you coming back for more – and at this price, you can afford to serve it in a generous glass. Made for big plates of burgers and buns.

Les Jamelles Syrah 2018, Vin de Pays d’Oc, France (£7, Co-op, Mumbles) A little gem from the sunny South of France, this has a smooth, polished feel with all the generous, fruity brightness (expect swathes of wild berry fruits, spice, cinnamon and hints of violets), a delightful richness and enough structure to pair with barbecued meats, sweet and sticky glazes and wild boar sausages with a side of creamy coleslaw.

Tesco Finest Fair Trade South African Pinotage 2017, South Africa (£7.50, Tesco, Swansea Marina) South Africa’s flagship red grape loves smoke, and the streak of smokiness flowing through this ripe, plummy, earthy, bushy red with a slightly dryish finish, makes this a great all-rounder to mop up sticky, sweet sauces – especially if you’re planning to tap into the trend for smoking pork and ribs with oak, hickory and milder wood flavours, such as apple, this summer.

Palataia Pinot Noir 2017, Pfalz, Germany (£9, Marks & Spencer, Swansea) Germany’s floral, delicate pinot noirs are becoming increasingly popular, and this has ripe summer berries and raspberries galore. There’s a silky elegance to the lush berry fruits, which are brightened by scented strawberry notes and a kiss of oak. Try serving it lightly chilled on a hot sunny day and you’ll be in good company – really lovely and uplifting.

Bird in Hand Two in the Bush Shiraz 2017, Mount Lofty Ranges, South Australia (£13.99, Waitrose Cellar) Opulent and rich with a wealth of perfumed, velvety smooth blackberry fruit, the wine spends 16 months in French oak and is elegantly structured with subtle hints of chocolate and pepper. Really impressive, enjoy with a seasoned T-bone steak for a match made in heaven.

Strawberry Fool Hello summer! We have been awaiting you for what seems like forever This is a classic British summer pudding and if you are hard pressed for time and find yourself wondering what to make for a dessert then look no further. This is a simple, quick dessert and a real crowd pleaser. Even better, now that British strawberries are in full swing and at their sweetest and juiciest, they really are the hero of the dish.

The name ‘fool’ is taken from the French word ‘Fouler’, meaning to mash or press so you can pretty much adapt this recipe and use most fruits – raspberries, rhubarb, or peaches maybe?

You will need Serves 4-6 ingredients ■ 250g strawberries hulled ■ 4 tbsp icing sugar ■ 150g double cream ■ Juice of half a lemon ■ Toasted pecans – chopped (optional) method 1. Begin by chopping your strawberries into halves, keep a few aside for decoration.

2. Place into a food processor with the lemon juice and sugar and pulse to a textured puree.

3. Whip up the cream to soft peaks.

4. Fold the puree into the cream.

5. Place into glasses.

6. Leave to chill for at least an hour.

7. Toast some pecans in a dry pan and chop then sprinkle on top just before serving.

8. Top with sliced or whole strawberries.

!

Bon appetit

FOLLOW SIAN’S DELICIOUS RECIPES on her blog page siandaydream.wordpress.com or Tweet her @SianDay SWANSEA LIFE 58

ENJOY

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FOOD & DRINK

Indulgent luxury

In search of a special occasion restaurant, PETER SLEE finds one in Narberth

I

’ve written about a fair few restaurants on this page over the years.

Family-friendly local eateries, out-of-theway pubs, cafes and chain restaurants. Some good, others, occasionally, a little less so.

But I’ve never before eaten in a restaurant quite like that at The Grove in Narberth.

Dining there on a Sunday evening last month was a bit of a surprise. I had been tipped off about it from a friend living locally. There was no PR bumf, no competitive tweets nor insistent Instagrams, no frenzied media telling me what to think, and no polls. Just us arriving at a slightly whimsical, comfortable country-house hotel that takes bookings enthusiastically and doesn’t have a sound system to rival that of a jackhammer.

60 SWANSEA LIFE

It stands in some splendid, rolling Pembrokeshire countryside in a thoroughly rural and peaceful spot near the pretty little town of Narberth offering Georgian meets Arts and Crafts interiors, luxurious and attractive bedrooms, and, of course, the highly creative food we were after the night we called in.

Fine-dining Fernery restaurant’s proximity to the countryside is echoed in its super stylish ‘country chic’ design, which plays greens and browns against natural textures in a space that flows seemlessly from one area to the next.

Michelin-starred Douglas Balish has just taken over as its new executive chef, moving in from the acclaimed Tudor Room in Surrey.

My general rule: if you’ve got the time and the money in a place like this, then go for the tasting menu. Not every time you eat out, obviously, or by Christmas you’ll be the size of Switzerland. As a treat, though, you can’t beat it. Two reasons.

First, the decadence; second, three lazy, sprawling, blissfully profligate hours of being waited on hand and foot, as a

seemingly endless succession of delicacies is presented with a humble bow for Your Majesty’s delectation. I love it. Proper banqueting. Regal luxury. It makes me feel like Henry VIII. Afterwards, I want to stagger outside, roar for my horse then down a bathtub of ale.

And if you are going to do it, then do it here!

Evening diners at this stylish eatery are free to revel in tasting menus of either six or eight courses at £79 or £94-a-head respectively or a three-course option at £69.

Balish’s celebrated style is in full view and the Scottish-born chef dazzles in his ability to create dainty concoctions. He is keen on noble ingredients and draws his inspiration from the area he now works in, so expect the best of Pembrokeshire produce together with the fabulous vegetables and herbs picked daily from The Grove’s very own kitchen gardens.

A pigeon dish comes arranged with black pudding, grapes and walnuts while monkfish is daringly envisaged together with langoustine, cauliflower and curry accompaniments.

Douglas Balish

beetroot, raspberry, cashew and avocado.

Service is bright, professional to a level you rarely see these days, and, knowledgeable.

Sauces are dotted, microherbs tweezed but there’s a real earthiness and depth to a main of lamb, curd, morels and wild garlic. A vegetarian main of cauliflower with dahl, coconut and coriander - a spirograph masterpiece - had an impact way beyond expectation due to the woody, earthy essence of its parts with little touches to enhance and intensify flavour rather than to show off.

We opt for that eight course tasting menu to mark a special anniversary with a couple of amuses all so fleetingly delicious, we mourn their passing as we eat.

Elsewhere in our little group, a langoustine tea and a main of pork with cabbage, piccalilli and potato also wowed. They had been nicely fussed over and were memorable.

A starter of scallop, truffle and chive is perfectly judged and perfectly cooked. So, too, on our table, a vegetarian starter of

Desserts - across the table a celestial assembly of rhubarb, ginger and tonka

“

bean and mine, chocolate, manjari with yoghurt and hazelnut are first rate though we are flagging just a little by the time the chocolates arrive. But yes, we still eat them and they are every bit as delicious as they look.

Head Sommelier Catriona Mcgregor who has developed an exciting selection of over 200 extraordinary wines from a diverse cross section of regions and grape varieties, was also on hand to nicely talk us through our options. It helped!

The atmosphere at dinner is upmarket traditional country house: white tablecloths and candles.

Balish’s stellar cooking combines first-rate classical technique with clever flourishes and interesting ingredients at every level.

It is a place quite like no other restaurant I have ever eaten in. It raises the bar when it comes to eating out and is absolutely worth the 40-mile trek from Swansea down to West Wales to sample it.

Now all I need is that ‘special occasion’ to call in again.

I can hardly wait!

three lazy, sprawling, blissfully profligate hours of being waited on hand and foot

“ SWANSEA LIFE 61

FOOD & DRINK

HERE’S WHY YOU SHOULD BE DRINKING CITRUS GINS Oranges and lemons lend themselves so well to the spirit, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

But do you really need an excuse?

62 SWANSEA LIFE

T

he phenomenon of flavoured juniper notes, as the fresh pine notes of the gins is nothing new. But what juniper complement the bright zesty lemon if you love the simplicity of a perfectly. With the orange, we pair cardamom G&T, ice and a slice – and then and cassia bark to bring a warming winter spice bemoan that you skimped on and create a richer, deeper flavour.” the lemon, or should have What should we expect from drinking garnished the glass with the them? refreshing zestiness of an orange segment?

“If you prefer a brighter, lighter style of spirit, “Citrus has always been a key element to gin opt for something led by lemon or grapefruit,” production. From the bright fragrant says Brayford. “Lemon, particularly when added zest of a fresh lemon to the candied fresh, will give a very fresh and sharp note to marmalade notes of dried orange the gin, whereas grapefruit will be peel – the flavours are varied and oily and slightly sweeter. powerful,” says Joe Brayford, brand “For something a little richer, ambassador at City of London dried orange can bring a lot Distillery (COLD). of depth depending on the “Many classic cocktails and variety, with bittersweet notes traditional serves for gin have of marmalade or candied citrus at their base, so having a orange. Ingredients such as gin led by citrus notes makes coriander seed, lemongrass, perfect sense.” thyme or even hops can all Award-winning COLD looked bring notes of citrus, along at the rapidly growing market with more aromatic or for flavoured gins and wanted herbal qualities. to find a way to add a little What cocktails do they tradition, and make them their work best in? own. By using these flavours, “Citrus gins are so versatile. which are common in both A bright, fresh citrus gin will contemporary and traditional really complement citrus gins, they found a way to bridge based drinks, for example the gap and bring the two sides our Six Bells Lemon Gin together. works really well in a Tom Its new release, City of London Collins, but will equally Distillery Murcian orange gin uplift stirred down darker (£35, 70cl, City of London drinks like Negronis.

Distillery) swiftly follows City “A richer, deeper citrus gin of London Distillery Six Bells like our Murcian Orange will lemon gin (£35, 70cl, City bring complexity to lots of City of London Distillery Murcian orange of London Distillery) – both and Six Bells lemon gin cocktails, lending a rounded of which have a London Gin body to your long spritz botanical base with ‘citrus style drinks and layers of complexity to already notes that sing’. heavily spiced aromatic serves.”

Is there something about citrus gin that Here’s how citrus gins differ from other might surprise us? flavoured gins, and bring some extra zing “Citrus doesn’t necessarily have to come from to a G&T... citrus fruits. Coriander seeds are one of the most commonly used botanicals in gin for their Why are citrus gins special compared to aromatic citrus notes,” explains Brayford. other gins?

“Ingredients like thyme, lemongrass, timut “The range of flavours available from different pepper and hops can all bring interesting types of citrus gives us lots of scope to citrusy flavours, as well as lots of depth and experiment with the botanicals we pair them complexity. They’re all perfect to pair with with,” says Brayford. traditional citrus to bring extra complexity and “For our lemon gin, we can still emphasise our character.”

SWANSEA LIFE 63

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Bishopston Road, Swansea

• 4 Bedroom Detached property • Victorian character features • Driveway / Off road parking • Sea Views • Sought after location • Catchment for well regarded schools • EPC - F

• 6 Bedroom detached family home • Two En suites plus Family bathroom • Spacious reception rooms • Kitchen & Separate utility area • Enclosed rear garden • Off road parking & Integral garage • EPC - AWAITED

Swansea 01792 641481 £750,000 Bethany Lane, West Cross,

Swansea 01792 641481 Eaton Crescent,

£550,000

£350,000

For sale with pa black Swansea 01792 641481

Llangennith, Swansea

New Road, Porthcawl

Higher Lane, Langland, Swansea

• Four bedroom detached property, including self contained annex • Views overMumbles, Llangennith beach and Rhossili StSea Annes, down, Situated in over 3 acre plot, Off road parking • Versatile accommodation, Business opportunities (subject to relevant permissions), EPC - E

• Detached Georgian style property • 4 double bedrooms • Two enView, suitesUplands, Dylans • Spacious reception rooms • Conservatory • Detached double garage • EPC - C

• 3 bedroom detached • En suite to master •Gower Spacious reception Road, Sketty,rooms • Low maintenance gardens • Sough after location • Coastal walks and beaches • EPC - D

Swansea 01792

For sale with pa black Swansea 641481 01792 641481

Cardiff Monmouth Penarth Porthcawl Newport

£550,000 £320,000

Porthcawl 01656

£625,000

For sale with pa black Swansea 771600 01792 641481

£450,000

Swansea 01792

£400,000

For sale with pa black Swansea 641481 01792 641481

Delivering exceptional service for exceptional homes

£395,000

©LW

For sale with pa black Swansea 01792 641481

£725,000

COASTAL LIVING ON YOUR DOORSTEP AT THE LINKS The Links at Rest Bay, Porthcawl comprises bespoke studios, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments. The first phase of thirty-five homes are situated within the Victorian Grade-II listed building, surrounded by landscaped gardens. Phase two will offer a collection of carefully-designed new build properties in the adjacent grounds.

The new homes overlook South Wales’ top surfing beach, offer magnificent panoramic sea views and are positioned next to the award-winning Royal Porthcawl Golf Club.

Prices from £200,000 - £750,000 MARKETING SUITE OPEN DAILY 10AM - 5PM REST BAY, PORTHCAWL CF36 3UP For further information contact: 01656771600 porthcawl@peteralan.co.uk Computer generated image shown for illustrative purposes only. Prices correct at time of print.

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

CHANTRY ACRE, BISHOPSTON, SWANSEA

BELLENDAINE, MIDDLETON, RHOSSILI, GOWER

This 1920's home is finished to a very high standard & located among glorious countryside with has immaculate landscaped gardens & exquisite, panoramic countryside views. With approx 8 acres of grounds, paddocks and large barn (full planning for holiday accommodation). EPC E

Stunning countryside & sea views with approx 1.8 acres. There is also an attached 2 bed annex which could be used as extra space or create additional income as a potential holiday let. The main house offers 2 beds, 2 receptions. Ample parking, large garden & large paddock. EPC E

Offers Over £1,795,000

Offers Over £699,950

BRANDY HOUSE, LANDIMORE, NORTH GOWER, SWANSEA

THE GRANGE, MIDDLETON, SWANSEA

Magically situated on the North Gower's waterside with great salt marsh & estuary astonishing panoramas across the great salt marsh and estuary. Offering 4 beds, 2 receptions, kitchen/ breakfast room and 2 bathrooms. Very large garden with estuary & marsh views. EPC F

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 £699,995

Offers Over £550,000

OAKTREE BARN, RHOS, PONTARDAWE, SWANSEA

THE FERNS, FERRYSIDE, CARMARTHENSHIRE

With rolling panoramic countryside views & tranquility this 2 bed barn conversion is a countryside haven. Beautifully designed generous spaces with vaulted ceilings, fabulous grounds & a log cabin. Ample parking, double garage with annex above. Set within 7.5 acres. EPC D

Spectacular waterside panoramas from almost every room & gardens of this 6 bed detached family home. 5 receptions, 3 bathrooms, fitted kitchen with AGA & utility. A short walk from beaches & amenities. Beautifully landscaped gardens & detached garage. EPC E

Offers Over 599,950

Offers Over £499,950

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

THE DINGLE, CASWELL, SWANSEA

MOORLAND AVENUE, NEWTON, SWANSEA

LAND WITH FULL PLANNING Magical secret garden situated only a 5 minute walk from Caswell Bay beach, & surrounds you with enchanting mature gardens, sounds of nature & is perfectly private. Full planning for a 4 bed ultra modern detached property. EPC n/a

An exclusive development of executive, detached properties finished to a very high standard.

Presenting 5 bedrooms, 4 receptions and 2 bathrooms with modern kitchen/breakfast room & utilty room. Landscaped garden, double garage and close to excellent schools. EPC B

Offers In Excess Of £1,100,000

Offers Over £800,000

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

SOUTHGATE ROAD, SOUTHGATE, GOWER

APT 2 DAVIDS WHARF, MUMBLES, SWANSEA

Spectacular spot with spectacular sea views in one of the most sought after coastal villages on the Gower. Presenting modern/kitchen/diner, 6 beds, 4 receptions & 4 bathrooms. Lovely large garden & hot tub. You will be a hop, skip and a jump from the nearest beach. EPC C

Waterside property located right on the seafront of Mumbles offer fabulous views of Mumbles seafront and the whole of Swansea Bay. Modern 3 bedroom apartment, 2 bathrooms & fabulous open plan living/kitchen area. Lift & underground parking. EPC B

Asking Price £895,000

Asking Price £549,000

APT 1 DAVIDS WHARF, MUMBLES, SWANSEA

3 SOUTHEND VILLAS, MUMBLES ROAD, MUMBLES

Courtyard Garden Waterside property located right on the seafront of Mumbles offer fabulous views of Mumbles seafront and the whole of Swansea Bay. Modern 3 bedroom apartment, 2 bathrooms & fabulous open plan living/kitchen area. Lift & underground parking. EPC B

Magnificent views, situated on the waters edge of Mumbles Bay. This Georgian building houses 3 large apartments, No 3 is on the top floor, has private access & parking for 2 cars to the rear.

You have 2 receptions, fitted kitchen, seperate utility, 3 beds & 3 bathrooms. EPC Exempt.

Asking Price £495,000

Asking Price £495,000

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

You can book appointments with us and check the progress of your sale, purchase or mortgage application 24 hours a day, 7 days a week www.peteralan.co.uk

MAKE THE MOST OF SUMMER.

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Gorseinon Road, Gorseinon, Swansea, SA4 9GG | Tel: 01792 892357 | www.brisco.co.uk

HOUSE & HOME

21st-century showstopper Want a modern house with sea views to die for? Take your cue from this marvel at Southgate in Gower

L

peter.slee@reachplc.com ooking for somewhere new to live which really has that added wow factor?

Add to that, a spectacular spot in one of the most beautiful and sought after coastal villages on Gower that is just a short hop, skip and a jump from the nearest beach and village amenities. Then welcome to this sixbedroomed beauty in Southgate.

Set at where the coastal cliff edge meets the waterside, those sea views are what will first grab your attention. Turn into the generous driveway, through the wooden gate, over your very own cattle grid and you'll be met with grounds lovingly designed and landscaped creating a welcoming, sunny fascia.

70 SWANSEA LIFE

In through the front door into a substantial, bright hallway with wooden floors, which leads to all the living areas. Immediately to your left is the very generous lounge, with a mammoth bay window and patio doors to the front leading onto an all-day, suncatching, private patio.

Then, if you haven't already been wowed quite enough, move into the heart of the property - its kitchen dining room - and into its stunning modern kitchen which flows into an open plan dining area with a wow factor part-pitched Velux ceiling, exposed wooden beams and bifold doors – creating a truly fantastic space.

The modern designed kitchen itself is perfectly thought out with family usage in mind. You grace the giant grey floor tiles as you explore the huge amount of MasterClass modern units and worktops.

The high-gloss units house a generous mix of storage space and integrated appliances

which include; fridge/freezer, wine cooler, two dishwashers, NEFF five-ring electric hob and three separate ovens.

A giant island is located centrally in the kitchen to provide further storage and stoolstyle seating space for four people. The island's unit doors are designed to contrast the remainder of the kitchen, creating a modern and bright overall design.

Walk through to the dining area of this sizeable space and you will be surrounded by two sets of bi-fold doors leading to the rear decking and patio with four Velux windows above, creating hoards of natural light which perfectly enhances the space.

The dining area is open to the sitting room, a naturally bright yet very cosy family room.

The wooden floors marry the warmth and character of the wood burning fireplace perfectly.

"It is here you can cosy up with its fire or

THE DETAILS: utilise the space as overflow when hosting a large family gathering or party,” say selling agents Fine & Country of Mumbles.

The first floor houses five bedrooms with its master staggering in size. The doubleheight pitched ceiling will impress instantly with its vast size, exposed beams and Velux windows.

Here, you’ll find a vast array of built-in wardrobes, and windows looking over the rear garden. The en-suite bathroom is fully tiled with underfloor heating and houses a lovely modern suite with a mix of glass, porcelain and wood.

The three bedrooms to the front of the home again take maximum advantage of those amazing sea views. Two of the three bedrooms are good size doubles and the third is currently used as a walk-in dressing room, but could nicely serve as a single bedroom. There is also a single bedroom to the rear, which currently houses bunk

beds and has a lovely outlook over the rear garden.

Up again to the property's second floor with its spectacular bedroom and bathroom suite encompassing the entire floor.

Asking price: £895,000 Agents: Fine & Country 77 Newton Road, Mumbles T: 01792 367301 E: swansea@fineandcountry.com

Externally, the home is lucky to have sizeable front and rear grounds.

"The rear of the property is fantastic in terms of privacy, peacefulness but also in terms of the different functions it provides," say Fine & Country.

"There is a large level lawn area, decking and patio areas leading directly from the kitchen/diner bi-fold doors and perfect for BBQ's and outdoor entertaining. There is a large decking area which houses a hot tub and an additional decking area at the bottom of the garden which is currently set up as a casual outdoor lounge area.

You also have a strip of land at the bottom of the garden, reaching around the corner which houses a shed and vegetable patch.

"The front garden is a welcoming and very well landscaped area. There is a private wooden gate entrance, two lawns, sculpted evergreens, raised beds, mature shrubs and trees and a very generous block paved driveway/parking area. There is also a private patio sitting off the front lounge, which captures the all day sun as it moves across the property.

"This really is a truly exquisite family home which could even be utilised as a wonderful holiday let.

"A spectacular spot in one of the most beautiful and sought after coastal villages on Gower!”

SWANSEA LIFE 71

TRANSfoRm youR ouTdooR SpACe wiTh ASTRoTuRf QuiCk ANd eASy To iNSTAll low mAiNTeNANCe pRiCeS fRom

£12.99 sq metre

we hAve A GReAT SeleCTioN AloNG wiTh expeRT AdviCe.

DESIGNER CARPET BRANDS

304 Carmarthen Road, Cwmbwrla, Swansea SA5 8NJ

01792 474922 www.ksc-carpets.com

A WIDE RANGE OF BRANDS IN STOCK

FULLY FITTED WOODEN FLOORING

YOU WILL BE FLOORED

BY OUR PRICES & SERVICE FREE CUSTOMER PARKING AT REAR OF OUR STORE

Kitchens & Bathrooms at Leekes

FOR OVER

120 YEARS EST. 1897

Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU Tel: 0800 038 3050 | Online: leekes.co.uk/kitchens

Beautiful Bathrooms Create the perfect space for cooking and dining with a stylish new kitchen from Leekes. Our studios showcase a wide range of up to 30 displays from painted finishes to high gloss options, with a choice to suit every home.

UP TO

Finishing Touches From tiles to towels and showers to storage we offer a wide range of accessories to complete your look.

4 YEARS

9.4 /10

FREE

TRUSTPILOT‡

INTEREST CREDIT#

UP TO

15% OFF RRP

rating on

Our experience with the team was exceptional.

We are truly delighted with the end result and cannot recommend Leekes enough.

Mr & Mrs Harris

The Leekes Difference All of our stores contain purpose built studios showcasing our extensive collection of kitchens and bathrooms.

Our Lowest Price Guarantee† means that we won’t be beaten on price on any like for like proven quote.

99% of customers would recommend Leekes to friends and family ^▲

Expert advice from our experienced and knowledgeable designers.

FREE pre-fit survey with an independent approved installer.

FREE 3D professional design and planning service using the latest software.

Book your FREE consultation at leekes.co.uk/bathrooms or call 0800 038 3050 Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU FOR OVER

120 YEARS EST. 1897

Tel: 0800 038 3050 | Online: leekes.co.uk # 0% APR REPRESENTATIVE Finance is subject to status, conditions apply. Credit is provided by Hitachi Consumer Finance, a trading style of Hitachi Capital (UK) PLC and Leekes Limited who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Up to 5 years Interest Free Credit available on kitchens and up to 4 years Interest Free Credit available on bathrooms. Minimum of £500 or 10% deposit required. Qualifying spend, minimum and maximum loan amount applies. ‡As checked on 24/05/2019. † Terms and conditions apply, ask in store for details.

UP TO

5 YEARS

9.4 /10

FREE

TRUSTPILOT‡

INTEREST

rating on

CREDIT#

UP TO

40% OFF RRP 

Quality Kitchens Create the perfect space for cooking and dining with a stylish new kitchen from Leekes. Our studios showcase a wide range of up to 30 displays from painted finishes to high gloss options, with a choice to suit every home.

COOKING PASSION SINCE 1877

COOKING PASSION SINCE 1877

Finishing Touches Choose from our extensive selection of finishing touches to complete your kitchen including taps, tiles, tableware and cookware.

Integrated Appliances From dishwashers to fridges and extractor fans to hobs, create a seamless look with integrated appliances.

Our experience with Leekes was exceptional and we are truly delighted with the end result.

Mrs Halling

Book your FREE consultation at leekes.co.uk/kitchens or call 0800 038 3050 Leekes Cross Hands, Business Parc, Carms. SA14 6RB Leekes Llantrisant, Cowbridge Road, RCT. CF72 8XU FOR OVER

120 YEARS EST. 1897

Tel: 0800 038 3050 | Online: leekes.co.uk 0% APR REPRESENTATIVE Finance is subject to status, conditions apply. Credit is provided by Hitachi Consumer Finance, a trading style of Hitachi Capital (UK) PLC and Leekes Limited who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Up to 5 years Interest Free Credit available on kitchens and up to 4 years Interest Free Credit available on bathrooms. Minimum of £500 or 10% deposit required. Qualifying spend, minimum and maximum loan amount applies. ‡As checked on 24/05/2019. †Terms and conditions apply, ask in store for details. ■Discount applies to doored cabinets only. Excludes decorative items such as plinths, pelmets and panels, ex-display and clearance lines. Varies according to range.

#

HOUSE & HOME

fabfl rals

Channel some flower magic with these blooming marvellous home accessories. Sam Wylie-Harris reveals her pick of this season’s bunch

Yankee Candle salt mist rose, £23.99, The Yankee Candle Company Yankee Candle is celebrating its 50th anniversary with 16 limited-edition fragrances.

Flower Market everyday bowl, £59, Amara With a lovely vintage feel, you can almost sense the exotic fragrance resonating from this beautiful bunch

‘You can never have too many cushions, especially when pretty pink sprigs are planted among the greenery’ Millport pair of small fabric scatter cushions, currently reduced to £55 from £75, Furniture Village

Fashions and trends may come and go – but year in, year out, summer-flowering never fails to spark inspiration in home styling.

“We’re seeing more adventurous colour and fabric selections coming through when it comes to upholstery, and our love of florals continues to flourish,” says Vanessa Hurley-Perera, chief product officer at Sofa.com

We love Salt Mist Rose, which first came to light in the Nineties, and is characterised by ‘the beautiful scent of delicate roses by the sea’

Gold birdcage tealight holder, currently reduced to £39 from £79, Furniture Village

“These bold choices are increasingly popular for accent pieces, such as armchairs, footstools and cushions,” she adds.

“Long gone are the days of matching three-piece suites and itsy-bitsy prints - customers are plumping for larger designs and brilliantly bold tones.”

Check out our favourite floral finds to shop now...

The joy of this whimsy deco is that you can dress it up to suit any scheme. If your space is a pop of colour, mix’n’match bright tealights. Otherwise, keep tealights white and tie a silk ribbon through the loop, or – even better – drape some faux greenery along one side of the cage

Morrisons flourish jug, £14, Morrisons

‘This gorgeous jug imbibes a meadow of wild flowers’ 78 SWANSEA LIFE

Feather Juju wall decoration, £85, OKA Very swish, this feather deco in the shape of an exotic flower is simply stunning. And if you really want to transform a wall, you could frame a mirror with a bloom on either side.

‘This dramatic floral design appears to have almost been hand-painted onto the sofa, and works beautifully in a rich and vibrant colour scheme of super soft velvets’

Snowdrop two-seater sofa in periwinkle and petunia Chelsea Bloom, £1,640, Sofa.com

‘Ideally, this terrific trio is best suited to a conservatory, but would look just as striking in a sunny corner or bedroom setting.

Especially with a trendy succulent resting on the table’

Set of six peony glasses, £69, Graham & Green Versatile and pretty, these coloured tumblers are etched with blooms and will be the toast of Happy Hour

Face imprint plant pots and vases, available in white, green and taupe, £10.95-£17.95 each, Graham and Green

Bentwood and rattan flower chairs and table, £850 for the set, Raj Tent Club

As if these quirky plant pots aren’t eye-catching enough, they could give your favourite house plant a new lease of life

Pack of 20 Boho floral napkins, £3.95, Graham and Green A favourite with party planners, you don’t need to be a flower child to prize these quirky napkins

SWANSEA LIFE 79

Blinds VERTICAL BLINDS

VENETIAN BLINDS

ROLLER BLINDS

SKYLIGHT BLINDS

0% A REPRESEPR NTATIVE

FINA AVAILANBCE LE

Spread the Cost. Ask for more information Spread the costs of all Blinds and Shutters across 6, 9 or 12months at 0% Interest when you spend £600 or more with a minimum 25% deposit.

Representative Example for: Window Blinds Purchase Price £1000 Minimum Deposit (25%) £250 Amount of Credit £750 12 Monthly Payments £62.50

Total Payable Duration of Agreement Rate of Interest (Fixed) APR Representative

£1000 12 months 0% 0% APR

Payment plans are offered by Close Brothers Retail Finance. Close Brothers Retail Finance is a trading name of Close Brothers Limited. Close Brothers Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority. Finance is only available to permanent UK residents aged between 18-75, subject to status, terms and conditions apply.

CHILD SAFETY NEW 2017 FREE HOME FABRIC CONTROLS TO SELECTION FREE design advice and an RANGE ALL BLINDS obligation FREE quotation.

Tel: 01792 896531

Chic are members of the British Blinds and Shutters Association. Your assurance of quality standards.

Unit A2 & A3 Kingsbridge Business Park, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 4HJ

A family business celebrating 27 years in business with over 60,000 customer orders completed ELECTRIC CONTROL

ÂŁ85 FROM AS LITTLE AS

EXTRA PER BLIND

Control at the touch of a button. Ideal for all large or out of reach windows, and for multiple blinds (up to 16 blinds controlled from 1 remote). Operation by battery, Rechargable lithium motor or hard wired.

CHOICE OF MANUAL OR ELECTRIC

The latest addition to our range. A combination of opaque and transparent material gives an outstanding visual eect and the control of light and privacy.

For more information visit our website www.chicblinds.co.uk Email: sales@chicblinds.co.uk or visit our showroom

Tel: 01792 896531 Unit A2 & A3 Kingsbridge Business Park, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 4HJ

For more information visit out website www.chicblinds.co.uk Email: sales@chicblinds.co.uk or visit our 3 showrooms

A NEW SOLID ROOF CREATES A CONSERVATORY TO ‘LIVIN’ WHATEVER THE WEATHER

2000ft

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FREEPHONE 0800 808 3224

www.securahome.co.uk

Improving homes since 1994

Securahome PVCu Ltd, Garngoch Ind Est, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 9WN

HOUSE & HOME

1

L E S L E Y

TAY LO R

A SPLASH OF COLOUR

FANCY ADDING A POP OF COLOUR TO YOUR BATHROOM?

2

For too long, bathroom suites have been dominated by swathes of white.

Well not any more. Colour is making a comeback.

Well sort of. We’re not talking avocado suites and plum seat covers. More sophisticated waves of colour to brighten up everything from tiles to vanity units.

Now, radiators might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to adding colour, but manufacturer Bisque has been putting style into this interior staple for some time.

1. More designers, such as Dansani, are injecting colour into their suites. The Dansani Zaro collection allows homeowners to create a unique, elegant bathroom that wins in the style stakes

Its Lissett is ideal for large bathrooms and not only will it keep your towels toasty hot, it is available in a myriad of hues, from vibrant Traffic Yellow to subtle Mauve.

2. For a showstopping finish use colourful tiles to inject some personality. These are from The London Funk collection from The Baked Tile Company 3. Invest in brightly-coloured towels for an instant update

If your bathroom is not in need of a new radiator – or budget is an issue – invest in some statement towels. You don’t need to replace your entire collection, just choose two or three standout towels that will make your bathroom pop with colour.

4. Use tiles in different shades to create a feature wall

4 3

When it comes to bathroom tiles, the choice is endless. From contemporary Metro shapes to classic hexagons, tiles have come a long way in recent years and are perfect for stamping personality in this most functional of rooms.

Three-dimensional tiles are bang on trend, and adding colour and texture brings a whole new dynamic.

The 3D Offset Hexagon collection from The Baked Tile Company has a striking metallic gold tile, which will really make

your bathroom zing. Pair it with a more subdued tone from the same collection to create a feature wall like no other.

If your tiles are in excellent condition, why not consider re-grouting? Coloured grout is becoming increasingly popular and compared to re-tiling is a pretty small-scale job.

For a bold shot of colour, why not consider a colourful new fixture? From black basins to colourful vanity units, there are increasing options for those who want to breathe life into bathroom essentials.

But a word of warning, unless your interior decorating budget is endless, make sure you are completely in love with the colour you pick. Unlike towels and even tiles, fixtures can be harder to replace without ‘doing’ the rest of the bathroom, so pick something you’re in love with today and tomorrow, as well as the day after that and so forth…

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

For more information on her work, head to lesleytaylor.co.uk

SWANSEA LIFE 85

It's Pond

Season!

We stock everything you need:

Pond fish Pond plants - Everything from marginals to oxygenators Pond maintenance, pond liner and filtration Get £10 OFF an aqua garden pond vac when you buy any other aqua garden product

Specialist in koi, tropical, marine and cold water

GREAT DEALS

SAVE UP TO £230 ON FLUVAL AQUARIUMS

Pontarddulais Garden Centre | Allt-Y-Graban Road | Pontarddulais Swansea | SA4 8DS | T: 01792 882287

Maidenhead Aquatics at Swansea

Welcome to

Pontarddulais Garden Centre Garden

FIND US AT THE GARDEN CENTRE

Tel: 01792 882287

Tel: 01792 885959

Pontarddulais GARDEN CENTRE est 1969

VISIT OUR GARDEN CENTRE TODAY: Allt-y-Graban Road | Pontarddulais | Swansea | SA4 8DS Garden Centre: 01792 882561 | Restaurant: 01792 885948 www.pontarddulaisgardencentre.co.uk | @PontGC

FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING & LANDSCAPING NEEDS…

OPEN

7 DAYS

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Pontarddulais Garden Centre | Allt-Y-Graban Road Pontarddulais | Swansea | SA4 8DS Tel: 01792 885959 | www.kingacre.co.uk

D

Beautifully Beautifully Beautifully Bespoke Beautifully Bespoke Bespoke Bespoke

Open: Mon to Fri: 8.30am -5:15pm - Saturday: 9.00am - 3.00pm - Closed Sunday Visit our Cardiff showroom: Unit 2 | Leckwith Road | Cardiff | CF11 8AP

www.mpnwindows.com • Email: O sales@mpnwindows.com D O Freephone: 0800 158 8800 • Mobile/Text: 07976 640959

R

understanding and only made promises he knew he could keep. Tony Ferris The service I received from Paul of MPN Windows was excellent. He was polite,

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Visit our Cardiff showroom: Unit 2 | Leckwith Road | Cardiff | CF11 8AP Visit ourMon Cardiff showroom:- Saturday: Unit 2 9.00am | Leckwith | Cardiff | CF11 8AP Open: to Fri: 8.30am-5:15pm - 3.00pm -Road Closed Sunday Open: Mon to Fri: 8.30am -5:15pm 9.00am - 3.00pm - Closed Sunday Visit our Open: Cardiff showroom: Unit 2- |Saturday: Leckwith Road | Cardiff |- Closed CF11 8AP Mon to Fri: 8.30am -5:15pm - Saturday: 9.00am - 3.00pm Sunday Open: Mon to Fri: 8.30am -5:15pm - Saturday: 9.00am - 3.00pm - Closed Sunday

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HOUSE & HOME Anderson chaise sofa, velvet blush pink with natural legs, from £1,199, Cult Furniture

Pink neon star light duo, £29.99, Lights4Fun

k n i P Power of

Gabrielle Fagan catches up with Emily Murray of The Pink House to discover how to harness the prettiest colour of them all Once cast aside as ‘girly’, the colour pink is fast shaping up to be the hottest shade for interiors. Sugary pinks through to snazzy scarlets, pretty peaches and even funky neons are the winning shades on the palette this season.

Above and below: The home of Anna Atwal, founder of the interiors store, which features in Pink House Living

“Don’t make the mistake of thinking that pink is just for girls. Not any more it isn’t,” declares Emily Murray, creator of awardwinning blog, The Pink House, which celebrates the colour in all its hues in her own pink decorated home.

It’s been such a success since she started it three years ago that her new book, Pink House Living: For People Cheating On Fashion With Furniture, was a natural followon. It’s a brilliant guide to seeing the world through ‘rose-tinted’ decor spectacles.

Emily Murray and, below, her kitchen which features in her book

Stepping inside her home is proof of pink’s magic – she shows me around rooms which ooze personality, thanks to the magical touches of her “all-time favourite colour”.

Pink painted walls, a pink kitchen island, neon pink signs, splashes of pink to highlight period features, as well as an array of punchy pink accessories, are just some of the ways in which the colour has a starring role in her schemes.

Yet with her skill and sense of style, she makes it sing – rather than dominate or shock – in her Edwardian semi, and this uber-cool interior leaves you wondering why you’ve never thought of using pink more.

The mother-of-two is always hot on the trail of perfect pink homes, and her book features an array of brilliant pink settings from around the world, as well as her own rooms.

For those who fancy taking the plunge, she advises: “If you want more colour at home (it doesn’t have to be pink) simply choose your favourite shade and go for it.

“Make a scrapbook or Pinterest board of settings with colourful decor which naturally attracts you. You don’t need to design the

whole room at once – start with a piece of art or wallpaper and then slowly add further changes, so a room develops.”

“There are so many ways to use pink,” adds Murray. “You can accentuate a particular architectural feature, piece of furniture or art work, and sometimes simply use it to allow another gorgeous colour to shine.”

Mooi Lolita suspension light pink, £642, Rume

Pink House Living: For People Cheating On Fashion With Furniture by Emily Murray, photography by Susie Lowe, is published by Ryland Peters & Small, priced £19.99

SWANSEA LIFE 91

HOUSE & HOME

Hydrangea aspera

Garden favourites for the month of June With Joseph Atkin, head gardener at Aberglasney Gardens in Carmarthenshire As June is such a wonderful time of the year in the garden, we can afford a little decadence when it comes to the plants we grow. Many of our long-standing favourite plant groups such as peony, iris, clematis and Lily offer something spectacular. By adding just a few you’re guaranteed a show stopping display.

Lilium ‘Kushi Maya’

Rosa ‘Spirit of Freedom’ There are literally thousands of roses to choose from, but this variety does well in the cooler shaded conditions we have at Aberglasney. It will however also grow well in a sunny garden that is more suited to roses. Often called an English shrub rose ‘Spirit of Freedom’ provides wonderful large heavily scented old fashion styled flowers.

For us it is a repeat flower too. What is especially nice is that the flowers are so large the stems bend making the plant shorter, but they never break. If it is planted in a raised bed or a bank it arches over nicely to show off the whole flower.

Lily ‘Kushi Maya’ is a real ‘breakthrough’ plant and well worth a try. It’s a hybrid between a particularly beautiful wild lily, which is not easy to grow, and an oriental lily which is easy. The result is a plant with has all the beauty of the wild lily but is much easier to grow. The flowers appear in late June held on good stiff stems that don’t need staking. These are large and a white tinged green colour with a maroon centre. At Aberglasney it grows in a shady woodland situation where it thrives and flowers as the spring display is finishing.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

■

■ Height = 1.2m ■ Spread = 1.2m ■ Position/Aspect = Half shade to full sun ■ Soil = Any fertile ■ Pest and diseases = Less affected by the usual

rose issues such as black spot ■ Style = Rose garden, mixed border, cottage garden

Height = 1-1.5m Spread = 0.25m Position/Aspect = Shade to half shade Soil = Any good soil except chalky Pest and diseases = Lily beetle can be a problem, but regular removal does the trick Style = Woodland, shade, herbaceous, exotic, potted display, even cottage garden or exotic

Clematis ‘Snow Queen’ June flowering clematis are great garden plants, often filling the lull between spring and summer referred to as ‘the June gap’. We grow several different types on the walls behind the herbaceous borders. ‘Snow Queen’ is a good one for slightly shaded areas as the white flowers really stand out. These flowers are a good twenty centimetres across with lovely dark parts in the middle. Like all clematis it is slow to start but once it gets away it will do you proud for many years.

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92 SWANSEA LIFE

Height = 3-4m eventually Spread = 50cm against a wall Position/aspect = Sunny to half sun Soil = Any decent neutral to alkaline soil that stays cool Pest and diseases = No real problems for us Style = Herbaceous, arch, pergola, cottage garden, edge of woodland, against a wall

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EDIT your EDIT your perfect bathroom… perfect bathroom… perfect perfectbathroom… bathroom…

From family wetrooms to guest en suites, EDIT specialises in helping you create the From familyofwetrooms to guest en suites, EDIT specialises in helping create the bathrooms your dreams.

Interior designer Megan Griffiths explainsyou how… bathrooms of your dreams. Interior designer Megan Griffiths explains how…

1) Come say hello!

1) Come say hello!

�irst things first � come and visit us in our �wansea showroom, no appointment necessary! �irst things first � come and visit us in our �wansea showroom, no appointment necessary!

We’ll show you our latest bathroom arrivals and start chatting through yourbathroom design pro�ect.

We’ll show you our latest arrivalsWe and make a great cuppa and it’s the perfect chance start chatting through your design pro�ect. We to getatogreat knowcuppa our team start seeing the make and and it’s the perfect chance solutions we can offer. to get to know our team and start seeing the solutions we can offer.

2) Tell us 2) Tell us everything we everything we need to know… need to know…

We always make sure you get the perfect bathroom for ���.

It’smake not �ust fitting a toilet, bath and We always sureabout you get the in perfect bathroom sink, but about really planning the space, making for ���. It’s not �ust about fitting in a toilet, bath and sure itbut looks andreally feelsplanning right, and taking into account sink, about the space, making everything from tile colours, to blinds, to the perfect sure it looks and feels right, and taking into account locations for all the touches! everything from tile finishing colours, to blinds, to the perfect locations for all the finishing �ome consultations allow us touches! to walk through your space together and find out how youthrough use it onyour a daily �ome consultations allow us to walk basis. We’ll takeand detailed measurements space together find out how you useand it onphotos, a daily and ask questions to find out exactly what you want, basis. We’ll take detailed measurements and photos, yourask style preferences andout budget. an want, initial and questions to find exactlyThere whatisyou charge for this, but it’s refunded when you place your your style preferences and budget. There is an initial bathroom charge for order. this, but it’s refunded when you place your bathroom order.

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3) Let us work 3) Let work our us magic! our magic!

After our home consultation, we’ll take everything you’ve told us andwe’ll all our design After our home consultation, take knowledge to create your bathroom, providing everything you’ve told us and all our design high quality 3D visuals and moodboards to knowledge to create your bathroom, providing show you exactly what and we think your bathroom high quality 3D visuals moodboards to could become…a bathroom with wow factor! show you exactly what we think your bathroom could become…a bathroom with factor!

We know all the tips and tricks forwow making bathrooms We know alllook the fantastic tips and (without tricks for blowing making the budget) and we’re also not restricted to one bathrooms look fantastic (without blowing the brochure of products, so we really can find budget) and we’re also not restricted to onethe perfect products for you.

We’ll work with you brochure of products, so we really can find the to finalise the design and once you’re happy, perfect products for you. We’ll work with you the countdown can begin! to finalise the design and once you’re happy, the countdown can begin!

3D visual 3D visual

Showroom display Showroom display EDIT client elevation EDIT client elevation

4) Let us help with 4) the Lethard us help with work the hard work

EDIT can help make sure your bathroom fit out is as stress freehelp as possible too.your Depending onfitwhat you’d EDIT can make sure bathroom out is as like, we can work with your installation team from start stress free as possible too. Depending on what you’d to finish, making sure they have all the plans they need, like, we can work with your installation team from start that you’re kept fully thehave loop all and ensuring thatneed, to finish, making sureinthey the plans they everything arrives on time and in pristine condition. that you’re kept fully in the loop and ensuring that We can alsoarrives make on regular to make sure everything time site and visits in pristine condition. everything is going to plan, counting down to the final We can also make regular site visits to make sure grand reveal! everything is going to plan, counting down to the final grand reveal!

We love helping our clients create their dream bathrooms, so come and have a chat to dream see what we We love helping our clients create their can do for you! bathrooms, so come and have a chat to see what we can do for you!

Megan x Megan x 01792 439119 | www.edithomeanddesign.co.uk 01792 439119 | www.edithomeanddesign.co.uk

HOUSE & HOME Acapulco wall mural, from £32 per sqm, Wallsauce

Percy Parrot green parrot ornament, £120, The French Bedroom Company

Make your home

Velvet stool, £120, The French Bedroom Company

e l z siz

Orange glazed velvet matte apple sculpture, £199, Andrew Martin

with style

Want to transform your rooms into super sunny spots? Gabrielle Fagan reveals some mini decor projects and best buys.

Pick and Mix round stools, £195 each, Andrew Martin

Tier-on-tier shutters in custom colour, from £499, Hillarys

100 SWANSEA LIFE

like Strawberry Parfait, Blueberry Mash, our home’s interior can be as Pineapple Crush, Pistachio Cookie and sunny as you like, no matter Peach Syrup.” If you really want to transform the weather – all it takes is a your home landscape, splash out on an few simple, budget-friendly exotic beach scene mural. Wallsauce’s updates and best buys.

Acapulco Wall Mural, from £32 per sqm , Indulge in the sweetness could have you reaching for the sunglasses of the season with sugary and swimsuit. shades and accessories; transform your outlook with exotic prints and a TIP: If a medley of sweet shades is just mural; change your view too rich for your taste, add one with blue-sky window or two as ‘pops’ of colour set shutters reminiscent against an overall dominant of Mediterranean neutral, such as Coconut Juice scenes; turn up (Premium Blend v700 Walls the heat with & Ceilings, £28 for 2.5L), tropical foliage Sweet Tooth Decor hot suggests Kim. Alternatively, (real, faux or palm magenta velvet matte choose one shade for a apple sculpture, £249, print will do the Andrew Martin furniture up-cycle project, or job), and last but for doors and skirting boards for not least, create a smart update (use Valspar’s your very own ‘hot Premium Blend v700 Wood spot’ for essential & Metal). chilling on sunny days.

Be inspired and put your 2. Sweet tooth decor own spin on the suggestions - and your Follow that ‘sweet’ theme with fun stools space will brim with personalised style all from Andrew Martin, that look as though summer long... you’ve bagged a handful of pick ‘n’ mix. As a ‘healthier’ choice, add a couple of apple 1. Scoop up style with ornaments – a five-a-day decor delight. ice-cream shades

Y

“We’re all naturally drawn to certain colours and tastes. Why not choose a paint colour that reminds you of your favourite flavour ice cream?” says Sue Kim, senior colour designer, Valspar. “If you’re really brave, go for them all, in a perfect palette of ice cream colours. Choose sugary shades

3. Create a ‘hot destination’ wall

“Bring instant sunshine to a room, no matter what the weather outside, with summerthemed prints,” suggests Omar Obaid, co-founder of art print specialists, Abstract House.

Front walls: Clementine Cream.

Back walls: Blueberry Mash (both Valspar Premium Blend v700 Walls & Ceilings, £28 for 2.5L) and (door) Peach Syrup (Valspar Premium Blend v700 Wood & Metal, £32 for 2.5L). Valspar paints available from B&Q stores nationwide

“Photos of dreamy beaches you’ve enjoyed can transport you back to happy times and conjure nostalgic memories, while images of those tropical destinations on your bucket list could inspire you with hopes for the future. Research has also shown that just looking at pleasing art can lift mood and reduce stress.”

4. Change your view

“If your home could use a seasonal pick-up, windows are a great place to start,” says Susan White, design director at Hillarys.

“Whether the light in the room is natural, artificial, reflected, muted or diffused, it can have a major influence on our mood and feelings. Shutters are widely regarded as the ultimate window dressing both from a style and security point of view, allowing plenty of light and air to filter in, and they have a perfect summer feel.

“They can be a boon for allergy sufferers, because as long as they’re wiped down regularly they’re less likely than swathes of fabric to attract dust mites,” she adds. “Tier-

Squishmeister love seat chaise, in thatch house fabric Mellow Yellow, £1,145, Loaf

on-tier styles, where the top half operates separately from the bottom, offers privacy while still allowing light to flood in from the top.”

5. Turn it tropical

“We’re great fans of the sultry colonial aesthetic – tropical birds, hibiscus flowers, fresh palms and bright ferns are key elements in creating this look,” says Georgia Metcalfe, founder and creative director, The French Bedroom Company.

“This on-trend look combines perfectly with furniture of all styles from classic to contemporary, for a style that is reminiscent of holidays, summer, jungle-freshness and nature – all things that make our hearts sing!”

6. Let it grow

“Fresh green foliage and plants are the ideal Pick and mix square stools, £195 each, Andrew Martin

way to bring an outdoor, summery feel to a room, and living wall planters have to be one of our favourite finds in recent years,” enthuses Claire Bishop, from garden centre specialists, Dobbies.

“They were incredibly popular at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show and the finished look is hugely Pinterest-worthy. A ‘vertical garden’ gives you a statement focal point – you could have a kitchen herb garden or a leafy living room jungle feature – and because they come in sets of three ‘pockets’, they can be tailored to suit your space.”

TIP: “These are quick and easy to fit and simple to use, even if you’re not very greenfingered, and as they’re vertical they take up little space,” promises Bishop. “Simply water the top row of the living wall and this will cascade down to water every pot.”

7. Conjure a summer spot

Rearrange furniture for summer and position it to take advantage of any sunlight coming into a room, so you have your very own corner where you can stretch out and bask on hot days.

“We all like a special place at home where we can kick back, put our feet up and enjoy lazing on summer days,” says Charlie Marshall, founder of furniture company, Loaf.

“Colour choices play a big part in the atmosphere of a room. While light, pastel tones always work well, recently there’s been a big move towards zingier, bright statement shades – yellow, orange and pink – as people become more adventurous about decor. Demand for yellow upholstery is up 64% this year, and this colour’s brilliant way to give a room a visual lift and can’t fail to cheer a space on a dull day.”

SWANSEA LIFE 101

HOUSE & HOME

Faux dahlia, £16.99, TheFarthing.co.uk

SUGAR & SPICE Soft dusky pinks and muted mustard tones make all things nice…

Mustard, with its spicier and more muted tones, is the classy take on yellow – perfect for a chilledout living area. Bright yellow is notoriously difficult to decorate with, even though it’s the colour of sunshine and positivity.

strong colour theme like this, you can combine formal geometric prints with more bohemian florals without the different styles jarring.

Go for a bit – but not too much – of both so neither one dominates the other.

Mix it with other soft spice tones for a warm, cosy effect. Dusky rosewood pink, ginger and cayenne orange are mellow, tonal additions.

You could also try making the most of different textures.

Spicy colours really lend themselves to tactile fabrics, such as deep pile rugs and soft velvet furniture.

Keep walls and ceilings white to add some coolness and keep things modern.

Feature walls are still really popular, but rather than covering a whole side of a room, choose a panel or a feature area. You could even use it as a background behind open shelves in a recess.

Mix your prints, too. When you have a 102 SWANSEA LIFE

Orange cushion, £5, George at Asda

Henley tub chair, £449, Cult Furniture

Upgrading your front door is a brilliant way to change up your home too. It’s one of the few things you can do that instantly transforms the inside and outside of a house.

Even from adjoining rooms the extra light and colour is really effective.

Wallpaper, £12, B&Q

Volcano teapot, £45, Le Creuset

Pendant light, £24.99, Very.co.uk Vase, £17.99, H&M

Table lamp, £24.99, HomeSense

Rug, £59.99 Very.co.uk

Pouffe, £65, John Lewis

Bowl, £7.99, TK Maxx

White chair, £59, Danetti

Coffee table, £125, TheFarthing.co.uk

Sofa, £449, The Range

SWANSEA LIFE 103

A LUXURY DEVELOPMENT OF 3, 4 AND 5 BEDROOM HOMES  Summerland offers prospective purchasers the rare opportunity to buy a modern, high-specification home nestled in the heart of Caswell, one of the most sought-after locations within the Gower Peninsula.

Located in a peaceful rural setting enriched with local identity, this exceptional development boasts a varied selection of contemporary and luxurious house types bordered by lush, mature hedgerows and the dense deciduos woodland of the wider landscape.

Driven by quality and functionality, functionalit each individual home has been specifically designed for modern family life.

With meticulous attention to detail and internal specifications of the highest standard throughout, every aspect of this development provides prospective purchasers the opportunity to find the living space of their dreams.

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HOUSE & HOME

Looking for some garden inspiration?

From eco-friendly home composters to super quick pizza ovens and inventive garden lighting, we look at seven garden products of the year

Want a composter with a difference? Or a light that doubles as a Bluetooth speaker?

Or even a pot or seed tray made from bamboo?

These are just some of the finalists for the RHS Chelsea Product of the Year title which may take your fancy in the coming months, whether you’re looking for the practical, the sustainable or the high tech.

Here are seven clever products which have impressed the RHS judges:

1

‘Grande’ Plant Belles (from £53, will be available to order from Chelsea plantbelles.co.uk)

To mark the company’s 10th year of trading, it is launching three new ‘grande’ plant belles, elegant but robust steel wire frames to support larger freestanding herbaceous plants, unruly shrub roses and other floppy heavy headed shrubs like Hydrangea ‘Annabelle’.

The new taller, wider and heavier plant belles are inspired by the Sissinghurst method of training shrub roses, offering needy plants support once grown through, but also give the gardener the chance to prune and train shrubby plants in creative ways, by looping and tying branches back to the structure.

2

Ooni Koda gas-powered outdoor pizza oven (£244.99, uk.ooni.com)

If you love eating pizza in the open air and you don’t want to wait too long, you may invest in this smart, sleek pizza oven which you can assemble in seconds, place on your patio and have a pizza ready in 60 seconds.

Flip open the foldable legs, put the stone baking board into the oven, connect it to a gas tank and pre-heat the oven for 15 minutes. It reaches temperatures of up to 5000C, which is why it can cook your pizza so quickly. It has a clean, streamlined silhouette paired with one-touch gas ignition for easy, convenient outdoor cooking.

3

Obelisk composter and obelisk (£39 composter, £59 obelisk, wilstone.com)

This ingenious invention launching at RHS Chelsea Flower Show features a galvanised mild steel compost bin which you put directly on to your flower bed or in your vegetable patch, and an elegant obelisk which goes over it which you can use as a support for anything from climbing beans to sweet peas or clematis.

2

1 106 SWANSEA LIFE

4

3 You scoop compostable waste directly into the drum and the resulting compost inside then feeds the growing plants directly into their roots without you having to lift or carry the compost anywhere.

4 5

although this was based on a pot that had been left outside, so it’s likely that if kept indoors, it will last longer.

Cuba LED lantern and combined Bluetooth speaker (£249, lightinnovation.com)

6

Swan watering can (£8, madewithhusk.com)

7

Shed a little light on your patio and enjoy music at the same time with this new lantern and combined Bluetooth speaker.

It’s highly portable and can be used indoors or out, recharging from 0 to 100% in six hours. The dimmable 7-watt LED light will work for up to eight hours on one charge and the lantern will connect to any Bluetooth-enabled device, from a phone to a tablet.

With an emphasis on sustainability, this swan-shaped indoor watering can is fully biodegradable and made from 75% waste bamboo powder collected directly from farms. Testing has shown that the product can last up to seven years,

6

Bamboo pots and seed trays (£3.99-£6.99, www.haxnicks.co.uk)

Continuing the eco-friendly theme and the war on plastics, these bamboo pots and seed trays from Haxnicks are made from bamboo and rice, can be used indoors or outdoors and are reputed to last for five years or more. They’re also biodegradable and compostable, so give a feelgood factor to gardeners who really care about their environment.

Hotbin mini (£150, hotbincomposting.com)

Following in the footsteps of the award-winning Hotbin which can transform your food and garden waste into rich compost within 30-90 days, its smaller sister, the Hotbin mini (launching at Chelsea) does the same thing but is easier to house in smaller gardens.

It reaches temperatures of 40-600C which allows the efficient composting of more types of waste, more quickly. All food and garden waste can be added in, including cooked food, small bones and perennial weeds.

It’s also sealed well enough, with a bio-filter in the lid, to stop odours that can attract rats and flies. Add a bulking agent such as wood chippings to aid the process.

5

7

SWANSEA LIFE 107

MOTORING

W

Advertisement Feature

YARIS GETS A FACE-LIFT hen Toyota went for a facelift on the best-selling Yaris, it was tinkering with a highly-successful product, writes Patrick James.

But the firm says it wants to broaden its appeal to new and increasingly discerning customers in a highly competitive marketplace with its latest revamp.

It certainly looks the part, particularly this GR model with new front bumper that creates a catamaran shape and a black theme featuring piano black door mouldings, a honeycomb grille, door mirror housings and front fog light surrounds all in black. Not to mention the 17-inch black alloy wheels.

It looks good, a match in exterior design to anything on the market, particularly the hybrid with its blue flashes to signify its green credentials.

The sporty-theme continues inside with GRbranded suede seats and small three-spoke leather trimmed steering wheel.

However, the performance from a combined battery and 1.5-litre petrol engine hybrid is definitely more geared for economy, sporty looks and excellent economy, a hybrid in more ways than one.

Inspired by Toyota’s Yaris GRMN performance

model it inherits the uprated suspension for sportier handling, using Sachs Performance shock absorbers. So you have the chassis and suspension set up for hot performance, but not the performance.

That it handles well is a given, but the ride is firm, bordering on harsh at times ride.

However, if you want a sporty looking city car which also delivers the best part of 60mpg, this could be the answer.

The interior itself has soft touch trim in most, though not all, areas as well as a satin finish.

The centrepiece is a seven-inch touch screen which controls major functions including sat nav, Toyota’s clever multimedia system and a colour TFT information screen in the binnacle. The cabin has a light and airy feel, while the boot, even with the hybrid battery, remains one of the biggest in its class at 286 litres.

The 1.5 petrol engine and battery combination means it cheap to run, with nearly 60mpg achievable and CO2 emissions of just 89g/km.

At just under £20,000, it is keenly priced for a hybrid and standard kit is impressive, with goodies such as reversing camera, rain sensing wipers, dusk sensing headlight, auto-dimming mirror, cruise control and climate control.

FAST FACTS Toyota Yaris GRS hybrid Price: £19,840 Mechanical: 100bhp, 1,497cc, 4cyl petrol engine and electric motor driving front wheels via automatic gearbox Max speed: 103mph 0-60mph: 11.8 seconds Combined mpg: 78.5 Insurance group: 8 CO2 emissions: 89g/km BIK rating: 22% Warranty: 5yrs/100,000 miles

108 SWANSEA LIFE

Safety kit is comprehensive with seven airbags, traction and stability control, pre-collision alert, lane departure warning and road sign assist and ISOFIX child seat fitting.

On the road, the hybrid system combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor delivering 100bhp in total. It is mated to a variable transmission that is mostly reasonably muted, but harsh sounding under heavy acceleration, like most CVT transmissions.

Switch to electric-mode only, particularly around town and in slow traffic and the economy is brilliant. It is initially quick off the mark at the lights, but acceleration to 60mph in nearly 12 seconds is pedestrian.

However, it does handle well with the updated suspension with little or no body lean in corners, and the nicely weighted steering responds well to minor adjustments.

It is cheap to run. I drove hundreds of miles on the motorway and was pleasantly surprised at only having to visit the petrol station once.

Toyota is good at hybrids, witness the Prius all those years ago, and the Yaris hybrid is well equipped and cheap to run, too.

Toyota Yaris

it’s a no brainer...

£199 per month NO customer deposit 0% APR Representative £1 250 Finance Deposit Allowance AND 2 free services*

D iscover more in branch today FRF Toyota Neath Road, Morriston, Swansea, SA6 8HF

0330 100 5386 www.frftoyota.co.uk *5 year/100,000 mile manufacturer warranty. Terms and conditions apply. 0% APR Representative, £1,250 Finance Deposit Allowance and two free services only available on new retail sales of Yaris Conventional (excluding Active grade) when ordered, registered, and proposed for finance before 30th June 2019, and financed through Toyota Financial Services by 30th June 2019 on a 42 month AccessToyota (PCP) plan with 0%-35% deposit. Only applicable to eligible models produced before 20th May 2019. Subject to availability. Payment shown is based on a 42 month AccessToyota (PCP) contract with £0 customer deposit and Guaranteed Future Value/ Optional Final Payment. Toyota Financial Services is a trading name of Toyota Financial Services (UK) PLC; registered office Great Burgh, Burgh Heath, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5UZ. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Indemnities may be required.

Se Finance subject to status to over 18s. Other finance offers are available but cannot be used in conjunction with this offer. 8,000 miles per annum, excess miles over contracted charged at 6p per mile. Toyota Centres are indepedent of Toyota Financial Services. 2 free services on selected Yaris Conventional models purchased, registered and proposed for finance before 30th June 2019 and financed through AccessToyota (PCP) by 30th September 2019. Offer applies t o qualifying retail customers only. Free servicing includes 1 intermediate and 1 full service in accordance with manufacturer’s servicing schedule (each 12 months/10,000 miles, whichever the sooner) and must be redeemed at an Official Toyota Service Outlet. Wear parts are excluded. Service plan administered by EMAC Ltd on behalf of Toyota (GB) Plc. Terms and conditions apply.

MOTORING

Advertisement Feature

Audi TT takes its top off If you believe that life is a beach, then the Audi TT has been riding on the crest of a wave, writes Robin Roberts

I situation.

ts success over 21 years has been awesome and the envy of many manufacturers, not because it’s particularly clever but because it’s essentially simple and satisfying in any

For a comparatively small car in the line up there’s a staggering 40-strong choice in twoor all-wheel drive, with coupe or cabriolet bodies, diesel or petrol engines attached to manual or automatic transmissions. No wonder you see so many on the roads.

Today’s range may shrink as diesel engines seem doomed, but the reality is the petrol engines are very good and a more compact series would bring substantial savings in manufacturing, so it could continue for many years.

Our sunny days are lengthening and the ability to open-up or snuggly close the roof in a matter of seconds is one of the best features, so I took advantage of the latest Audi TT Roadster 45 TFSI 2.0 S-tronic 245ps with its fully electric folding canvas roof.

It is a highly sophisticated system which slightly drops powered windows while it stows behind a tonneau cover or reverses the procedure to securely close the glass against the roof sides. Wind and waterproof it’s a delight to experience and use because it’s so refined.

That also extends to the powertrain and the very beefy 2.0 turbo-petrol engine with its seamless seven-speed direct shift gearbox, and the ability to fine tune responses with comfort, normal, dynamic and eco modes to make the most of any conditions and driver’s character.

The upper ratios in the automatic gearbox 110 SWANSEA LIFE

are overdrive and on long runs in the most miserly setting we saw near 40mpg at times.

The instant punch of power if needed is there and the changes are silken and swift with little advantage gained in using the manual paddle shifts on the column for most occasions. Then sometimes you want to use them for the feel and fun of it and there is no drawback, just delight.

It’s quick and safe from standstill to the legal limit, cruises with utter composure and can be surprisingly economical when you want it to be.

I liked the very smooth, easy and feelsome steering and the way the brakes applied power without much effort and no drama. It also held on our steep slope when we tested the parking brake itself.

With its quattro or four-wheel-drive transmission and grip there is never a moment’s concern for its cornering ability on any surface and that is so reassuring in our climate in the UK. The road noise can be joined by a busy engine note when it’s stretched, but that’s not really intrusive and with low wind or other mechanical sources the Audi TT cabriolet is a quiet car despite its lack of a metal roof.

The two people inside certainly have a comfortable cabin, not ideal if you’re over six feet tall however, but the backrests and cushions are well shaped and hold well with modest adjustment range.

Oddments room was limited and a bit frustrating if you generally carry a few things on trips and the space for luggage or shopping in the boot was small and low.

Visibility was a slight compromise with the

roof erect but much better when folded down. The lights and wipers were excellent.

Our car came with more than £8,300 of options, so you really can bespoke an interior.

The Audi TT has become an icon of the early 21st century, a future classic you can buy now and enjoy because it has few faults and none of these are more than irritating, a bit like sand in your shoes.

FAST FACTS Audi TT Roadster 45 TFSI 2.0 S-tronic 245ps Price: £47,460 Mechanical: 245ps, 1,998cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving four wheels via 7-speed automatic gearbox Max speed:155mph 0-62mph: 5.5 seconds Combined mpg: 34 Insurance group: 43 CO2 emissions:165g/km BiK rating:37% Warranty:3yrs/60,000 miles

The new Audi TT RS

Breathtaking performance, jaw-dropping style Now available for test drive Search Sinclair Audi

Bridgend Audi

Swansea Audi

Audi Approved Neyland

Tremains Road, Bridgend CF31 1TZ 01656 353515

Langdon Road, Swansea SA1 8QY 01792 621660

Havenbridge Road, Neyland SA73 1QY 01646 796618

www.sinclairaudi.co.uk Official WLTP fuel consumption figures for the Audi TT RS Coupé in mpg (l/100km): Combined 35.3 (12.5) – 35.8 (12.7). NEDC equivalent CO₂ emissions: 181g/km.

Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO₂ figures with other vehicles tested to the same technical procedures. Figures may not reflect real life driving results. Data correct at time of print 05/19.

MOTORING

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Introducing the new

The instantly-recognisable, powerful Mustang profile now delivers a sleeker, more athletic appearance, enhanced with LED lighting technology, and a choice of eleven bold exterior colours and new alloy wheel options. The new Mustang is anticipated to be the fastest accelerating ever, with an enhanced 5.0-litre V8 engine that offers an anticipated 450 PS, combining with Ford’s new 10-speed automatic transmission.

FORD MUSTANG

Ultimate performance Exhilarating performance and a fun-to-drive experience have been at the heart of the Mustang’s DNA since the first model was launched in 1964. New powertrain, chassis and technology enhancements enable the new Mustang to deliver the most rewarding driving experience yet.

Ford’s 5.0-litre V8 engine has been further developed to deliver more power and a higher rev-limit than ever before. Anticipated peak power of 450 PS is supported by the introduction of Ford’s new dual-fuel, highpressure direct injection and low-pressure port fuel injection system, which also increases low-end torque.

The new Mustang 2.3-litre EcoBoost delivers 290 PS, and offers a more responsive and

available now at the Day’s FordStore, Swansea

drift out of lane. The sophisticated technologies will contribute to an improved Euro NCAP safety rating.

The new Mustang also features Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system, which allows drivers to control their connected smartphones, audio, navigation, and climate functions with conversational voice commands, and by using pinch and swipe gestures on the central eight-inch touch screen. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™.

engaging driving experience thanks to a transient overboost function for the turbocharger – triggered under heavy acceleration to provide an extra burst of boost following each up-shift – and Ford’s new 10-speed transmission.

There are also two new drive modes, in addition to the existing normal, sport, track and snow/wet modes.

Smart tech for safety and convenience Mustang for the first time will be offered with adaptive cruise control and distancealert technologies that help drivers maintain an appropriate distance to the vehicle ahead, as well as lane departure warning that can warn when drivers unintentionally

The new Ford Mustang is available to test drive now, call 01792 616000 to book 112 SWANSEA LIFE

DRIVE AWAY IN A NEW FORD MUSTANG

AT DAY'S FORDSTORE SWANSEA

Models Available Mustang 2.3 EcoBoost Fastback 6SPD, Manual, Custom Pack 1; Oxford White, Ebony Leather: Mustang 5.0 V8 GT Fastback 6SPD, Auto, Custom Pack 2; Magnetic Grey, Recaro Seats, Ebony Leather:

Only £39,775 Only £48,500

Mustang 2.3 Ecoboost Fastback, Auto, Custom Pack 1; Racing Red, Ebony Leather:

Only £41,125

Mustang 5.0 V8 GT Fastback, Auto, Custom Pack 1; Magnetic Grey, Ebony Leather:

Only £47,400

Mustang 5.0 V8 GT Fastback, 6SPD, Manual, Custom Pack 2; Velocity Blue, Recaro Seats, Ebony Leather:

Only £46,350

Mustang 5.0 V8 GT Fastback, 6SPD, Manual, Custom Pack 2; Magnetic Grey, Ebony Leather:

Only £45,100

Mustang 2.3 EcoBoost Fastback, Auto; Shawdow Black, Tan Leather:

Only £39,860

Mustang 5.0 V8 GT Fastback, 6SPD, Manual, Custom Pack 2; Shadow Black, Recaro Seats, Ebony Leather:

Only £46,350

Mustang 5.0 V8 GT Fastback, 6SPD, Manual, Custom Pack 2; Shadow Black, Ebony Leather:

Only £46,950

Visit Day's FordStore Swansea for more information

Ford

www.days.co.uk

01792 616000 FordStore, Beaufort Rd, Plasmarl, Morriston, Swansea SA6 8HR

or contact us at fordstoresales@days.co.uk

Model shown are All-New Mustang, 2.3 EcoBoost, Fastback, 6SPD, Manual. Fuel economy Mpg (l/100km) (Combined): 31 (9.1) *CO2 Emissions 199g/km.

Retail Only. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. *There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures. The CO2 figures shown, however, are based on the outgoing test cycleand will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. Contract by 30th June 2019.

Register by 30th September 2019. Private retail sales only. ^Retail sales only. Finance subject to status. Freepost Ford Credit. C E M Day - Swansea only offers finance products from Ford Credit. C E M Day - Swansea acts as a credit broker in relation to finance products, and not a lender. Terms and Conditions Apply, Retail customers only. Pictures for illustration purposes only. Details correct at time of going to press.

WE HAVE BEEN SUPPLYING AND FITTING ACROSS SOUTH WALES FOR 34 YEARS We are experts in fitting:

■ TOW BARS

■ VAN RACKS

■ NUMBER PLATES

■ TRAILERS

■ CYCLE CARRIERS

■ DUAL CONTROLS

■ PARKING SENSORS

Llanelli Trailer Centre Let the specialists fit it for you

Unit 3A, Llanelli Workshop, Trostre Industrial Park, Llanelli, SA14 9UU Tel: 01554 773608 | E: info@ltcmobility.co.uk Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm | Saturday 9am to 12.30pm

OUT & ABOUT

A N D R E W

M O R G A N ’ S

SWANSEA BAY WALK Join Andrew as he leads us on a Swansea Bay walk

Start/finish location .......... Outside George Hotel, Mumbles Distance ..................................... 4 miles (2 hours) Level ............................................. Moderate Parking ........................................ Pay and display on seafront

Mumbles and Langland This is a lovely walk that we do occasionally, especially in the summer when we can enjoy the walk on an evening after work. We’ll be walking this area again on June 18 at 7pm with a leader who is in his nineties and an example of how walking keeps you fit for life. Come along and find out why Swansea Ramblers enjoy a walk and a chat every week while seeing the countryside.

Turn left uphill to the junction and hairpin back along Western Close. A footpath at the end of the road takes you onto Mumbles Ridgeway walk. Emerging onto Wychwood Close, continue to the end of the road and turn right onto Overland Road. Turn left and watch for the stone inscription commemorating the early aviator Sir Arthur Whitten Brown of ‘Alcock and Brown’ fame.

At the end of the road you arrive at Langland Corner. Descend Rotherslade Road to the coast path and turn left. Navigation gets easier now.

Keep the sea on your right side and the land to the left and you shouldn’t have a problem getting back! The path passes Fortes Café and continues to Bracelet. Descend the steps after the ‘Big Apple’ kiosk and continue along the coast path back to the start.

At the side of The George is a right of way that ascends above and behind the pub onto Mumbles Hill. At the top, turn left and follow the path to the transmitter. Here you have fine view over Swansea Bay. Retrace your steps back and continue past the path on which you ascended the hill. The path passes beneath the caravan park and after a wider area of grassland, descends next to a row of houses onto Thistleboon Road.

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

Upcoming walks JUNE 2019 Sat 15 Crai Reservoir (6 miles) – moderate –

meet 11am Crai: Lay-bys on west

side of A4067 Sun 16 Twyn Eithinog from Ystalyfera (8 miles)

moderate – meet 11am A4067 layby

at ASDA roundabout Sun 16 Ystradfellte Reservoir Ridge (13 miles) –

strenuous – meet 9am Guildhall

(Francis Street) Mon 17 River Tawe (4 miles) – easy/moderate

meet 10am Swansea: Outside

Sainsbury’s Café Tue 18 Evening walk: Mumbles and Langland

(4 miles) – easy – meet 7.05pm

Mumbles: Outside the George Hotel Wed 19 Fan y Big & Taf Fechan Forest (9 miles) –

strenuous – meet 9.30am

Go Outdoors CP (Llansamlet) Sat 22 Landimore (6 miles) – easy/moderate

meet 11am Landimore: Marsh CP Sun 23 Bryn (12 miles) – moderate – meet 9am

Guildhall (Francis Street) Wed 26 Sugar Loaf (12 miles) – strenuous –

meet 8.30am Go Outdoors CP

(Llansamlet) Thu 27 Evening walk: Arthur’s Stone (3 miles) –

moderate – meet 7pm Reynoldston: On road near Hotel Sat 29 Llangeinor (6 miles) – moderate –

meet 10am Guildhall (Francis Street)

SWANSEA LIFE 115

OUT & ABOUT

Want a view to wake up to?

When it comes to seeing Wales in all its unspoilt glory, there’s no better way to catch it close up than by pitching up a tent and spending a night under canvas, writes Rachael Misstear and Joshua Knapman When you live in a country as beautiful as Wales, you don’t need to stray too far for a picturesque getaway. And what’s more, you can stay right in the midst of the stunning scenery as camping in Wales makes for a fun and affordable holiday in the country we know and love.

While camping may not have crossed your mind, it’s a good way to take in the local wildlife, history, geology and natural beauty of Wales. It also gives you the freedom to move around during your stay, as well as being a much cheaper option than a hotel.

Camping is also a green option and you can easily travel to some incredible locations by bike, on foot or on public transport.

So why not try sleeping under the stars – there’s really no better place for it.

• Trevayne Farm, Tenby This is a beautiful farm and camping park above Monkstone Beach. Nestled between Tenby and Saundersfoot, its a perfect location for a trip to the splendid coast of Pembrokeshire - it’s spacious, flat and has wonderful panoramic views.

The site’s Tenby field has easy access to the surrounding woodland, hiking trails, beaches and coves with a great facilities building in easy reach.

116 SWANSEA LIFE

What are the facilities like?

Hot showers, toilets, disabled facilities power supplies, hair dryers, chemical/grey waste points, baby changing and wash up rooms. A stones throw from the farm shop is a little laundry room with washers, dryers and a pleasant place to do the ironing.

To book visit trevaynefarm.co.uk or TripAdvisor.

• Trellyn Woodland Camping, Abercastle, Pembrokeshire

Wish you w ere

here!

Just yards from the sea, Trellyn Woodland Campsite is set in 16 acres of an 80-acre farm near the harbour of Abercastle, Pembrokeshire.

What are the facilities like?

Set on the St Davids Peninsula it enjoys the same sort of weather as Cornwall but without the crowds. Part of a conservation project, it is within striding distance of rockpools and the magnificent coastal path of Pembrokeshire.

New this season are two family-sized walk in shower/washrooms and separate toilet (these are power showers with thermostatic low volume water heads).

You can stay here with your own tent or caravan or you can book some of the wonderful luxury glamping accommodation such as the Geo-eco domes, yurts or tipis and even stay in a Hobbit yurt!

There are just five secluded pitches at Trellyn, each with their own covered campfire area, a picnic table and grill.

In the main building there is also a washing up area and power supply for charging phones, torches, etc. There are also two communal freezers, a fridge, a pizza oven, sauna, wet suits and surf boards, which are free to use on a first come, first served basis.

Visit trellyn.co.uk or TripAdvisor

This beach-side park on the South Gower Coast, overlooks the picturesque village and Bay of Port Eynon.

The 15-acre site is surrounded by steep cliffs to one side and magnificent coastline on the other, and accommodates caravans, motorhomes and tents in five well-drained and maintained fields.

What are the facilities like?

The 400 pitches are non-marked or specified, allowing visitors to choose their own spot in relation to the facilities and the beach. Electric pitches however, are allocated upon arrival.

Two modern sanitary blocks serve the park which comprise of toilets, showers, laundry and dish-washing areas. It also has an outdoor wetsuit shower area, along with a disabled persons and family washrooms which are wheelchair- and pram-friendly.

Visit porteynon.com or TripAdvisor

• Three Cliffs Bay, Gower Set in some of Wales’ most stunning coastline, this award-winning family campsite in the heart of Gower, is a short walk to the beautiful Three Cliffs Bay where families can enjoy the golden sands.

Families or couples can stay with their tents, caravans or motorhomes. There are both sandy beaches and rocky coves to explore nearby.

What are the facilities like?

Gas supplies are also available.

Visit hillendcamping.com or TripAdvisor

• Faerie Thyme, Crwbin, Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire Invoke your inner hippy at quirky Crwbin campsite, Faerie Thyme. This is an adultonly campsite. Among the stone circles, vintage caravan and pirate ship, lies an accommodating site. Tracing the leylines of wizard heritage, nearby Mynydd Llangyndeyrn is rumoured to be the birthplace of Merlin. It was one of only two Welsh sites to receive a ‘member’s recommended best site’ award from the UK Camping and Caravanning Club.

What are the facilities like?

There are 10 tent pitches, some tucked away in the woods and five pitches for motorhomes and caravans. The site lots of shelters and has (composting) toilets and shower facilities.

There are undercover washing up facilities, and a recycling area. There’s even a small ‘honesty shop’ where you can find logs for the fire and even some marshmallows to toast.

Visit faerie-thyme.co.uk

Clean, well maintained toilet block with free showers, toilets, washbasins, family room and disabled room. There’s electric available for tents, in addition to electric hook-ups for caravans and motorhomes.

There’s also a farm shop stocked with local produce.

• Caerfai Farm,

Visit threecliffsbay.com or TripAdvisor

St Davids, Pembrokeshire

• Hillend campsite, Gower

Set in the UK’s smallest city, the picturesque St Davids, Caerfai Farm is just a stroll away from the city centre, but overlooking Caerfai bay in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Situated on the headland this beautiful site and offers stunning views right across St Brides Bay to the south.The site opens directly onto the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

What are the facilities like?

Water standpipes within 100m. of every pitch. The service building including toilets, hot showers, hot water wash-basins, hair dryers (ladies and family rooms) hot water sink units, two family rooms, shaver points, and refuse and chemical toilet disposal points.

Located on the Gower peninsula, the campsite consists of four fields totalling 14 acres of level meadow which can accommodate up to 300 tents and motorhomes.

Two of the fields are for families and couples only, and all are within 200 metres of the magnificent Rhossili Bay. From Worm’s Head in the south, to the tidal islet of Burry Holmes to the north, the three-mile sweep of golden sands is a constant reminder of the splendour of Gower.

It is here, at the foot of Rhossili Down, 200m from the beach, embraced by farm and moorland and an extensive sand dune system, that you will find Hillend .

There is a laundry room at the farm (100m from site) and this has coin-operated washing machines and dryer plus hand wash facility and spin dryer.

What are the facilities like?

The Farm shop sells basic essentials and organic produce, including cheese made from their cows’ milk from the farm.

There’s a children’s playground and site shop, which stocks a wide range of groceries, fresh local produce and camping necessities.

There is also an off licence and freezer block exchange facility.

Visit caerfaifarm.co.uk or TripAdvisor

• Carreglwyd, Gower

e 27 y on Jun a D s e s s l Sungla Nationa

Modern washrooms, with separate male and female indoor showers and coin operated washers and dryers.

Rhossili, Gower SWANSEA LIFE 117

AFFORDABLE LUXURY HOLIDAY HOMES IN THREE SPECTACULAR GOWER SETTINGS

With a choice of three stunning leisure parks all based on the glorious and renowned Gower Peninsular, Premier Leisure Parks offer three jaw dropping locations to own your perfect holiday home. A paradise you can escape to at the drop of a hat, time and time again, whenever it takes your fancy.

Premier Leisure Parks is an independent, family run business that has been providing high quality holiday homes in the most picturesque parts of Wales for nearly 25 years.

All three parks are privately owned and based on the philosophy of providing high quality holiday homes, with a customer service to match, in the most idyllic of settings. A leisurely life of luxury awaits prospective holiday home owners and with no commercial fleet hire available this is as far removed as possible from the busy, boisterous and hectic holiday parks as you can get. A family owned and run business since 1994, there really is a personal touch to owning a holiday home here.

Premier Leisure Parks are more like communities with friendly neighbours forming long lasting friendships. Many of the pitches are spacious and offer impressive sea and/or countryside views.

The vast majority of the caravans are deluxe models from some of the best manufacturers including: BK Bluebird, Swift, Willerby and ABI. The caravans have either two or three bedrooms and can accommodate four to eight people. With an impressive range of new and pre-owned caravans available there is a holiday home to suit everyone’s budget and it's more affordable than you may think.

Whiteford Bay Premier Leisure Park overlooks the beautiful bay, has wonderful sunsets and its peaceful location is one of Gower’s best kept secrets. This is the largest of the three Premier Leisure Parks but shares the same intimate, friendly atmosphere as all the groups parks.

Nestled behind Whiteford Burrows this hidden gem has a large children’s adventure playground making it an ideal choice for families. There is also a laundrette and shop and with no clubhouse on site but the award winning Britannia Inn public house with restaurant in walking distance along with a lovely village shop where you can sit in the cafe for homemade tea and cakes or buy local produce at your leisure.

PREMIER LEISURE PARKS Telephone: 01792 391203

Greenways Leisure Park offers holiday home owners some spectacular scenery overlooking the beautiful Oxwich Bay. Greenways has high quality holiday homes available for sale for holiday use by private owners and boasts an array of facilities for owners to enjoy.

LUXURY LODGES

across Oxwich bay to Three Cliffs.

Greenways is the only leisure park in Gower to offer these very impressive luxury lodges that can be used as either fully residential Park Homes or as upmarket holiday home Lodges.

These really are the ultimate in luxury and command spectacular views

• The lodges cover around 800 square feet in area

The park has it's own small play area, small laundrette and also demands some stunning views across the coast.

Customers of Green Meadow are also

• 2/3 bedrooms with walk-in wardrobes in some models • 1 bathroom

There is a children’s recreational area with large adventure playground; family focussed lounge-bar; disabled friendly facilities; a new launderette and a boat storage facility.

Green Meadow Holiday Park is the newest addition to the Premier Leisure Park group and is now the sister site to Greenways Premier Leisure Park just down the road.

• Lounge/diner

• 1 en-suite shower room • Decking • Designated parking

invited to use the sister site facilities of Greenways of Gower.

As soon as you arrive at a Premier Leisure Park you can feel the stresses and worries of everyday life disappear as your mind and body immediately adjusts to the slower pace of life and the beautiful surroundings. The only dilemma you face is... deciding which park to choose!

JOIN US FOR AN OPEN WEEKEND ON THE 13TH-14th JULY AT GREEN MEADOW

Email: info@premierleisureparks.co.uk | www.whitefordbay.co.uk | www.greenwaysleisure.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

SEE YOU AT...

Swansea Life selects the shows and events you don’t want to miss

Morriston Orpheus Choir: Annual Gala Concert Where? Great Hall, Swansea University When? June 15 Formed in 1935, the internationally-acclaimed Morriston Orpheus Choir enjoys a reputation as a leading exponent of male choral singing. The annual highlight is their Annual Gala Concert, and the choir returns to the Great Hall at Swansea University in Jersey Marine. This year they will be joined on stage by soloists Trystan Llŷr Griffiths, tenor, and Huw Euron, bass.

Tickets: £18 DETAILS: 01792 604900/604999

STEREOPHONICS Where? Singleton Park When? Saturday, July 13 One of Britain’s best live bands the Stereophonics are on their way for a special performance at Swansea’s Singleton Park.

The stadium rockers will perform in their south Wales heartland to celebrate 20 years since the career milestone show in Swansea at Morfa Stadium to 55,000 people and the release of Performance and Cocktails.

The band will be joined by singer-songwriter Tom Grennan, Super Furry Animals front man Gruff Rhys and Aberdare-born Welsh rockers Fireroad at Singleton Park for the July 13 event.

Tickets: www.ticketmaster.co.uk, axs.com or www.myticket.co.uk.

Swansea Half Marathon

Where? Starts and finishes at the Brangwyn Hall, Swansea When? June 23 2019 sees the return of the multi-awardwinning JCP Swansea Half Marathon, voted the UK’s best half marathon (2017 and 2018) and Wales’ biggest and best summer half marathon.

Some 10,000 runners are thought likely to take part in the event this year.

The JCP Swansea Half Marathon starts in front of the Brangwyn Hall, before heading through the city centre, along Oystermouth Road down towards Mumbles before heading back towards Swansea via the cycle/walkway alongside miles of sandy beaches.

TIME: 10am DETAILS: www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk

120 SWANSEA LIFE

Discover the joys of Welsh wildflowers

Where? National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne When? Friday, June 21, to Sunday, June 23; 10am to 6pm With orchid-rich meadows and displays of rare and endangered Welsh wildflowers, this is something of a unique opportunity to get up close to some of nature’s hidden treasures. With talks, guided walks, activities and stalls, the gardens will have enthusiastic experts on hand to not only show these special wildflowers but also the pollinators associated with them.

This year, there’s a special emphasis on Welsh wild orchids. Sue Parker of the Hardy Orchid Society and author of three books on orchids including the Wild Orchids of Wales, will be giving two standout talks on ‘Welsh Orchid Species’ and ‘Top Orchid Sites in Wales’. She’ll also be co-leading a walk onto the Garden’s orchid-rich hay meadows.

Tickets: Normal ticket prices apply

Rhydian + special guest, Royal harpist Claire Jones Where? Brangwyn Hall When? June 22

Rhod Gilbert: The Book Of John

WHERE? Grand Theatre, Swansea WHEN: June 19 and 20 This show sees Rhod as funny as ever, but like never before. Raw, personal and brutally honest; no more lies, no more nonsense.

As seen on 'Rhod Gilbert's Work Experience', 'Would I Lie To You?', 'Taskmaster', 'Qi', 'The Apprentice: You're Fired', 'Live At The Apollo', 'Have I Got News for You?', and much more...

Tickets: £29.50 are sold out, but contact the box office closer to the date for returns, 01792 475715.

ART EXHIBITION

Where? Tides Fine Art Gallery, Mumbles When? Until July 4 Killay-based artist Jeff Kirkhouse brings his exhibition “The White Frame Of Mind” to the gallery, showing many of his best pieces “Inspired by living and breathing the Gower Peninsula for very many years.” Plus, there are a few contrasting new pieces of cityscapes including Paris and New York.

Tickets: Free entry Details: 07918 733830

Award-winning, double-platinum-selling vocalist Rhydian is joined this year by renowned harpist Claire Jones. Friends for many years, the pair have achieved chart topping success and legions of fans across the globe. Claire has been the official Royal harpist for four years and Rhydian works closely with Prince Charles as an ambassador of the Princes Trust. They are thrilled to be bringing their show to the Brangwyn Hall, Swansea this year. Not only will you get to hear Rhydian and Claire at their best, but for one night only they will be joined

by Britain’s Got Talent finalist and golden buzzer winner Gruffydd Wyn.

TICKETS: £19.50-£39.50 DETAILS: 0870 780 0425

The Great British Food Festival Where? Margam Country Park When? June 22 and 23

Fancy the perfect recipe for a fun, foodie, family day out?

Then perhaps head to Margam Park for this fantastic taster of all things food and drink!

Delectable delights and tasty treats from a range of street food vendors and amazing artisan producers. You can also try polishing up your culinary skills with its free chef demos.

Also on offer: Bake-off stars on a free, interactive bake stage; a cocktail of niche bars, with their tempting tipples, ready to enjoy; sampling the cake-off creations or being entertained by the Men v Food warriors.

Tickets: Adult, £9; child, £5 Details: www.margamcountrypark.co.uk

Wales Airshow Where? Swansea Bay When? July 6 and 7

Not too long to go now until one of the city’s most popular annual get-together events! Breathtaking aerobatic displays over Swansea Bay, state-of-the-art aircraft and vintage planes from the past, will again be thrilling hundreds of thousands of visitors in the skies above Swansea. It’s not just breathtaking aerial acrobatics on offer at the Wales Airshow – there’s plenty of family fun to be had on the ground too! With flight simulators, fun fairs, armed forces vehicles and displays and much more, there’s loads to see and do.

And don’t forget plenty of food and drink on offer as well! The ground displays are open from 10am – 6pm both days, you can arrive early to beat the traffic and take in the displays before the action in the air kicks off.

Tickets: Free entry Details: 01792 635208

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HOLIDAYS

The magic is closer than you think...

Choice of Disney® Hotels....

Disney’s Hotel Santa Fe

Disney’s Hotel Cheyenne

Disney’s Sequoia Lodge

Les Villages Nature® Paris

Brand NEW!

Departure dates 21st July, 31st July, 15th Aug & 25th Aug 2019

Our breaks include Executive Coach Travel Disney accommodation Ferry Crossings 2 day Disney® Parks Hopper Ticket

©Disney

T&Cs apply. Subject to availability.

Disney’s Bonfire Spectacular and Disney’s Enchanted Christmas dates now on sale!

Come and see us in your local travel shop: Blackwood 01495 222272 Cardiff 02920 348811 | Llansamlet 01792 274444 | Llantrisant 01443 202048 Merthyr Tydfil 01685 387877 | Neath 01639 250250 | Swansea 01792 456600

sOCIAL DIARY

ROWBERRY’S FASHION SHOW WHere: Marriott Hotel, Swansea Marina.

Tell Me More: A fashion show organised by Rowberry’s, in aid of Alzheimer’s Research UK.

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SOCIAL DIARY

LAUNCH EVENT WHere: NPTC College.

Tell Me More: Employer launch event of The Lee Stafford Academy. Lee gave an on-stage masterclass to more than 200 hairdressers from Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend.

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SOCIAL DIARY

MADNESS AT FFOS LAS WHere: Ffos Las racecourse, Pontyates.

Tell Me More: One of Britain’s best-loved bands, Madness, celebrated 40 years of hits in front of thousands after a day at the races.

Pictures: MGB Communications

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SOCIAL DIARY

LLANELLI ROTARY CLUB: JAMES BOND 007 BALL WHere: Stradey Park Hotel, Llanelli Tell Me More: The evening was hosted by Llanelli Rotary president Alison Evans. Llanelli businessman Paul Harries kindly lent his Aston Martin to the Rotary Club for the pre-ball cocktails party. The evening featured a raffle, auction and entertainment by Emma Jay. A total of £3,000 was raised towards a special project at the Prince Philip Hospital chemotherapy unit. The money will help to purchase a piece of equipment called ‘Accuvein’- this aids the nursing team in identifying patients’ veins for venepuncture.

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SOCIAL DIARY

Charity lunch WHere: Ocean View Gower Tell Me More: This charity lunch was hosted by Julie Smith and Deb Barrow for the Old Mill Foundation cancer charity in Penclawdd. The main sponsors were Samphire Hair Design, Penclawdd, Ocean View Gower, Llanrhidian and GS Properties, Crofty. More than ÂŁ2,500 was raised for the charity which provides holistic therapies and support for those affected by cancer.

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SOCIAL DIARY

NEW SALON OPENING WHere: Morgan Lloyd Hair, Sketty Tell Me More: An evening event to launch the Morgan Lloyd hair salon. Family, friends and customers enjoyed supporting the unveiling of the newly-completed salon. Pictures: Adrian White

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SOCIAL DIARY

West Wales Community Awards 2019 WHere: Parc y Scarlets, Llanelli Tell Me More: An event to celebrate the unsung heroes and community champions throughout the Carmarthen Journal and Llanelli Star circulation areas. Hosts for the night were Jonathan Roberts, editor of the Carmarthen Journal and Llanelli Star; and Louise Davies, a past judge and long-term supporter of the awards. Entertainment was provided by CĂ´r Lleisiau Hardd and The Wilderness. Pictures: Hoosh Arabi

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SOCIAL DIARY

West Wales Community Awards 2019 (continued)

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SOCIAL DIARY • Marriott 30th Anniversary

Anniversary party WHere: Marriott Hotel, Swansea Tell Me More: An event building on Marriott International’s culture of recognition and pride. The celebration paid tribute to all associates for their dedication, commitment and outstanding service. Pictures: Hoosh Arabi

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DISCOVER MUMBLES

Msummer U Mfestival B L2019 ES

DISCOVER MUMBLES

M U M B L E S E V E N T S 2 019 JULY

AUGUST

HERE COMES THE SUMMER

RNLI MUMBLES RAFT RACE

Thursday 25th July 5.30pm to 9.30pm

Sunday 11th August

Newton Road closed to traffic

BIG ART OF MUMBLES Saturday 24th August Registration 10am One day art competition across Mumbles

CRACKER 7S – 7S RUGBY TOURNAMENT Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th August Underhill Park Sunday evening social with THE CONTENDERS

MUMBLES CLASSIC CAR SHOW Thursday 29th August 5.30pm to 8.30pm

COMING SOON SEPTEMBER MUMBLES OYSTER FESTIVAL Southend Gardens

NOVEMBER CHRISTMAS IN MUMBLES Thursday 25th November Turning lights on

HOLIDAY COTTAGES, CITY APARTMENTS AND MORE

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Have you considered making extra income through holiday rentals or short-term lets?

Get in touch to find out about our flexible management services.

Why you can trust Home from Home ✚

A passionate customer service team committed to marketing your property

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Local and national advertising campaigns

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A strong digital presence on homefromhome.com as well as managing bookings from other affiliate websites including: AirBnB, HomeAway and Booking.com

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A space for your property in our brochure sent to over 10,000 holiday makers

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Photography and 3D tour

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Advice on all your paperwork and certification

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Provision of monthly and annual financial statements

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Successfully managing properties for over 45 years

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Long established office in Mumbles and new office in Cardiff

Simply give us a call to find out more on

01792 360624 | 02922 671200 or email enquiries@homefromhome.com

Proudly Supporting

WONDERFUL CARE FOR YOUR ELDERLY RELATIVES RESIDENTIAL HOME FOR THE ELDERLY

“Ocean living is an excellent place. There is a lovely atmosphere, great food and lovely staff. We are very pleased that mum has settled so well. Overall score 5/5 for care/support, management, rooms, value for money and overall standard”.

March 2019 Russell H (son of resident)

Located on the sea front in Mumbles, overlooking Swansea Bay (opposite Verdi’s), Ocean Living has all the hallmarks of sophistication and style but with a unique homely feel that is enjoyed by residents, their family and friends.

Freshly cooked to order meals are made by our resident chef, including breakfast, three course lunch, supper and of course home-baked cakes and desserts and all are serviced in our restaurant quality dining room. In-room dining facilities are also available if preferred - our aim is to make our residents feel at home.

Ocean Living has been developed and designed specifically for luxury senior care living, with generous room sizes, opulent interior design, magnificent en suites and comfort all round. Ocean Living is registered for 15 residents.

“Very good food. The staff are excellent and the rooms are very good. The area outside is very good with plenty to do and see. I would recommend the care home to my friends and family”.

Philip E would highly recommend Ocean Living and his overall score is 5/5 for care/ support, food & drink, staff, safety/security and being treated with dignity.

April 2019 Philip E (resident)

Ocean Living are proud of achieving 5 stars for their food standards

734-736 Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4EL | Tel: 01792 361818 | info@ocean-living.co.uk | www.ocean-living.co.uk

RESIDENTIAL HOME FOR THE ELDERLY Enjoying wonderful views over Swansea Bay and specialising in dementia care, Tycoch based Hawthorn Court is one of the only residential homes for the elderly in the area that is dementia registered.

“The care home I am staying in at the moment is very homely and very nice”.

October 2018 Peter B (resident at Hawthorn Court)

We work in collaboration with Age Cymru, the Alzehimer’s society and other specialist, professional organisations to enhance the everyday well-being of our residents.

Hawthorn Court is registered for 25 residents.

Having worked with us for over 10 years, home manager Liz Watkins has a huge array of experience in delivering high quality care. Together with her dedicated staff, the team ensure our resident’s needs are their number one priority. Our members of staff are continually developing their training and skills, so that they are qualified and confident both physically and mentally.

We have recently installed a new lift.

“My mother entered Hawthorn in August 2018. Her room is excellent and the carers are attentive and extremely sympathetic.

The senior staff are friendly and nothing appears to be too much.

Up to this point, we feel we have made an excellent choice of care home and would encourage others to entrust their loved ones to Hawthorn.”

August 2018 Sara G (daughter of resident)

12 Bayswater Road, Tycoch, Swansea SA2 9HA | Tel: 01792 201427 | info@hawthorncourtcare.co.uk | www.hawthorncourtcare.co.uk

No.64 is dedicated to ensuring the highest quality of services and attention to detail Call us on 01792 360449 Find us at: 64 Newton Road, Mumbles, SA3 4BE To find out more please pop in, call or come and visit us

NOW HIRING

ConTaCT us For more inFormaTion

e s a h c r u p o Looking t ome but h your next ? s r u o y d l haven’t so

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Come and talk to us about our personal, flexible and tailored approach to mortgage lending. We can help you raise funds so you don’t miss out.* Speak to your local mortgage manager for a no obligation discussion. * Subject to the Society’s Lending Criteria and Mortgage Terms and Conditions.

MUMBLES BRANCH 01792 739200 496 Mumbles Road, Swansea SA3 4BX YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME Swansea Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Financial Services Register Number: 206066

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

From left: Karen Miller, Michelle Mather, James Mather and Cath Green of Mumbles Flooring

Birthday celebrations for Mumbles business Newton Road-based Mumbles Flooring is celebrating 10 years in business this month as the independent, family-run business continues to go from strength to strength.

Like many successful companies, it started from humble beginnings, as founder James Mather explains: “I was at a crossroads in my career and was looking for a new challenge and having had previous experience in the flooring industry, decided to concentrate in this market and launched the Mobile Carpet Showroom.”

As the summer of 2009 approached, James was busy posting flyers through homes across Mumbles and the surrounding area, and soon, his hard work began to pay off.

“We started getting a few enquiries and slowly built up an order book of customers, as more and more people began recognising us,” said James.

“By visiting people directly, we were able to offer a personal touch to our service by getting to know our customers, what they were planning for their home and recommending different products which suited their tastes and budget – something that remains at the core of our business today,” continued James.

As the business grew, and with aspirations to open his own showroom in Mumbles, James needed to recruit staff, and his first appointment was his wife, Michelle.

“The children were still very young when I started helping James with the company,” said Michelle, “but we were able to juggle it all and opened our first showroom on Gower Place in 2011 and renamed the business Mumbles Flooring.”

Stocking a range of carpets, vinyl, wood flooring and luxury vinyl tiles; the business began to develop further and soon branched out into different markets, namely commercial properties and working with landlords.

“Some of our residential customers asked if we could quote on flooring for their workplaces or the apartments they let out and thanks to the excellent relationships we had developed with our suppliers, we were able to source and fit a range of products for high-footfall locations,” James said.

By 2107, it had outgrown its showroom and needed to move into larger premises, something easier said than done, as Michelle explained: “We couldn’t move out of the village, but finding a ground floor location with street access and parking for customers wasn’t easy.”

Thankfully, in January 2018 they eventually found the ideal site half way up Newton Road, just past the Principality Building Society.

“We were very fortunate to find such a great spot that was perfect for our needs,” said James, “and we now have three full-time and one

part-time members of staff working in the shop, alongside a team of three specialist fitters.”

While the first 10 years in business has gone very quickly for this local, independent flooring specialist, it has its eyes firmly set on another 10 years of success.

Mumbles Flooring is located at 55 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BL and is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and from 10am to 4pm on Saturdays.

For more information, visit: www.mumblesflooring.co.uk

SWANSEA LIFE 145

Plan for your future Contact us for your free initial consultation – Wills and Lasting Power of Attorneys We understand Wills and LPA’s are not at the top of everyone’s ‘to do’ list.

To help you, we are offering a free consultation for 30 minutes with an Estate and Trusts Solicitor, based in our Mumbles Office. During your consultation, we can determine your options and the most suitable solution. Please feel free to call in to our office to book an appointment, or alternatively, your consultation can be over the phone.

We look forward to hearing from you!

To Swansea

Oystermouth Castle

B4593 Newton Road

67 A40

et tre el S ap Ch

reet Stanley St

Underhill Park

P.A’s Wine Bar

The White Rose

d Roa les mb Mu

Oystermouth Primary School

Amy Cooper-Davies SOLICITOR Email: alc@djm.law.co.uk

www.djm.law.co.uk

@DJMSolicitors

Chelston House, 103 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BN Tel: 01792 304090

SWANSEA

LIFE AWARDS 2019

LIFE'S GREATEST ADVENTURE IS FINDING YOUR PLACE IN THE CIRCLE OF SWANSEA LIFE! Celebrating Swansea’s finest with a heady fusion of music, dance and African inspired cuisine

BRANGWYN HALL, SWANSEA •••• 13TH SEPTEMBER 2019

SWANSEA

LIFE AWARDS 2019

WHO DO YOU THINK SHOULD WIN? BRANGWYN HALL, SWANSEA • • • • 13TH SEPTEMBER 2019

SO HERE WE GO! THE Swansea social night of the year is looming large once again. The wraps are off for the 2019 Swansea Life Awards paying tribute and rewarding the successes of our highest achievers from right across the Swansea Bay area. Last year’s awards really got you talking and saw some of the best places and people in Swansea recognised for making 2018 their year.

But who do you think should take the titles in 2019? Which do you think is the bay’s best restaurant? What about your favourite shop, hair salon, pub, gym or wedding retailer? This year, 16 categories are being opened up for public vote and over the next couple of weeks we’ll be chatting with you on social media to find out who you think should make the final list.

VOTE FOR A SWANSEA BUSINESS THAT YOU FEEL DESERVES RECOGNITION The Swansea Life Awards, Swansea’s red carpet event of the year, rewards individuals and businesses that have helped to push Swansea onwards and upwards, with regards to outstanding quality, customer service and innovation. Winning or even being nominated would be a huge publicity boost for your chosen businesses. It is recognition that really does last well beyond the awards night itself. The businesses associated with the awards will get coverage in Swansea Life magazine and the South Wales Evening Post, as well as regular mentions on www.walesonline. co.uk and the Swansea Life Facebook and Twitter pages.

THIS YEAR’S CATEGORIES BEAUTY Are you looking good for one of our Awards?

CAFÉ CULTURE Finest cafe, coffee shop or deli in Swansea?

Tell us which your favourite is...

WEDDING VENUE Pulling out all the stops to make your big day the best possible.

BEST RESTAURANT Do you cater best to your customers?

EVENT Have you run Swansea’s most successful event? Marshal your case

AFTER DARK Top Swansea drinkery or dance spot? You tell us!

BEST PUB Great food, drink, service and vibe: might you be a winner?

FASHION RETAILER (LOCAL) Smart operator? Go shopping for an Award!

HAIR Is your salon award-worthy? Let us know!

FASHION RETAILER (NATIONAL) Highlighting and celebrating great service from your high street, big name favourites

HEALTH/GYM/SPA Are you fit for the purpose of winning?

LEISURE & TOURISM The area is full to bursting with brilliant attractions. Which one gets your vote?

HOTEL Are you feeling comfy? Here’s which you say is the very best

HOMES & GARDENS Which shop makes your home dreams a reality?

WEDDING RETAILER Who has inspired your aisle style?

WEDDING SERVICES Who made your big day run smoothly?

HERE’S HOW TO VOTE Simply go to www.reachplcevents.com/ events/mediawales/swansea-life-awards and enter the name of the business/businesses you feel deserve recognition, in their relevant category/categories.

Voters can enter multiple businesses in as many categories as they like. We will accept only one submitted form per person. But make sure your vote counts, voting starts on 3rd June 2019 and finishes on 14th July 2019 - so make sure you get your votes in early.

BE PART OF THE SWANSEA LIFE AWARDS 2019 The Swansea Life Awards offer a great opportunity to put your organisation in front of some of the most dynamic and forward thinking businesses in Swansea.

With categories covering all types of businesses you are sure to find a category that suits you.

SWANSEA

LIFE

AWARDS Sponsorship of events that are attractive to your target 2019 audience is one of the most effective ways of communicating to your customers. By utilising this type of marketing activity, you can increase and build on your brand awareness whilst informing and introducing new customers. Effective sponsorship can complement your existing advertising and communication strategy whilst raising your company profile to the community at large. Sponsorship of events that are attractive to your target audience is one of the most effective ways of communicating to your customers. By utilising this type of marketing activity, you can increase and build on your brand awareness whilst informing and introducing new customers. Effective sponsorship can complement your existing advertising and communication strategy whilst raising your company profile to the community at large.

Category sponsorship packages start from £1,750.

For sponsorship enquiries contact Debbie Roberts: Tel: 01792 545626 • Email: debbie.roberts@mediawales.co.uk

Tickets NOW AVAILABLE For ticket enquiries contact Isabel Goodman: Tel: 01792 545511 Email: isabel.goodman@mediawales.co.uk

£75 per person

TIME FOR YOU

Allaboard for hotel lux!

■ IN A NUTSHELL

King’s Cross is one of the latest London districts to morph from ‘not very nice’ to ‘must visit’ destination with millions spent on the area in recent years.

Juxtaposed between the clean lines of the station’s contemporary architecture and the grande dame grandeur of a string of impressively-restored nearby buildings, the Grade II-listed Great Northern Hotel building serves to fuse the two with understated elegance.

The timeless townhouse originally designed in 1854 by Lewis Cubitt (as was King’s Cross station itself), has been retained by the present owners and it fits right in. The perhaps slightly cramped lobby belies what is otherwise a rather grand interior, with an elegant wrought iron staircase providing access to the curving, handsomely wide corridors on each of the four floors.

A magnet for media and entertainment types, darling, as well as out-of-towners.

Interiors are charmingly retro, service is polished, breakfasts are excellent. The GNR is a perfect study in how to elegantly update a grande dame hotel. The stylish interiors bring it into the present day, but there is still a sense of its grandeur and history. A superb restaurant and wonderfully eccentric bar make it the type of place that becomes the in-the-know visitor’s base in London.

■ LOCATION

Slap bang next to King’s Cross station and across the road from St Pancras, the hotel couldn’t be better located for travellers heading to the continent or the North. The British Library and the British Museum aren’t far away either. The shops, restaurants and bars of the very up-market Granary Square development are a five minute walk away with the artisan food

stalls of the Real Food Market more or less on its doorstep. We also spent an hour or three on a Saturday afternoon sitting on a pavement bar close to the Grand Union Canal and loved every minute of it!

■ Service &

facilities

Superb: friendly, polished, relaxed, swift – just how we like it today. Bosses here have assembled an imposing team. Simplicity and directness is the key from reception to housekeeping and from its restaurant to its cocktail bar. The comfort and happiness of the guests have been given impressive thought and you feel it the moment you walk through its flower festooned doorways. Staff were probably amongst the most impressive we have seen in any hotel of late. They want to please and do it in expert fashion.

■ What are the

rooms like

As is so often the case these days, all the rooms are decorated the same. However, at the Great Northern, their decoration is so charmingly retro, sensible and domestic, yet stylish and original, that it matters far less than in other hotels.

Understated five-star elegance is where it’s at. Looks and comfort wise, rooms are impossible to fault even if they are just a little on the snug side. Our bathroom, however, was huge with two rainfall showers.

■ Food & drink

Culinary wizardry abounds and the changing menu at the highly praised Plum + Spilt Milk is delicious and perfectly suited to its surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling windows and hand-blown glass lightbulbs warm the dining room. The menu created

by acclaimed chef Mark Sargeant adds modern twists to British classics that are ideal for any occasion. Our beef wellington at £80 for two was worth every penny. Yes, really! Breakfast was top notch.

The service, by accomplished waiters chosen for their personality, is brilliant.

On the other side of the restaurant is the three-roomed Anthracite Martini Bar with fabulous views over the area and everything to entice martini lovers to King’s Cross. Think glamorous, elegant and sophisticated - as well as drinks at a somewhat eye-watering around £14-a-pop - and you are somewhere there. The Coastal Martini made from samphire-infused gin, cured lemoninfused Mancino extra dry, black pepper tincture, pumpkin, chilli oil and a garnish of seaweed crisp was our favourite.

■ Value for

money

Double rooms from £188, year-round.

Breakfast excluded; à la carte options range from continental from £15 to full English at £25. Free wi-fi.

need to know: great northern hotel London Website: gnhlondon.com Address: Pancras Road, Kings Cross, London N1C 4TB

SWANSEA LIFE 151

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

ASK

PETER LYNN & PARTNERS

TIME FOR YOU

What is a Deputy Application and how does it differ from a lasting power of attorney?

If someone close to you loses the ability to make decisions about their lives, what happens if there is no Lasting Power of Attorney in place? (an LPA is a document which allows someone to appoint a person to look after their affairs.

If your relative or friend loses capacity and doesn’t have one, there is still a way you could get legal help to manage their property, finance, health, or welfare.

You will need to consider making a Deputy Application.  What is a Deputy Application?

A Deputy Application is a legal document that allows someone to manage another person’s affairs if they are unable to do so themselves.

In other words, if a person cannot decide something for themselves – often through a severe illness, brain injury, dementia, or severe learning difficulties – a family member, friend or carer can apply to look after specific aspects of the person’s life.  What types of Deputy Application are there?

Ian Walker, solicitor and specialist in wills, probate and lasting powers of attorney.

You can apply to be a property and finance deputy or a health and personal welfare deputy, or both.

A property and finance deputy will typically look after a person’s home, bank accounts, and investments, while a personal welfare deputy will usually oversee the person’s medical treatment and social care.

Personal welfare deputies tend to be appointed where family members disagree about care or where someone needs to make specific issues about something over time.  How do you apply?

Application forms must be sent to the court with a £385 application fee – this is doubled if you want to be both types of deputy.

If the court decides your case needs a formal hearing, you must pay £500.

The court looks at whether the person needs a deputy or another kind of help, and whether there are any objections.  Who can apply to be a deputy?

You must be over 18 to apply. Deputies are usually relatives or friends of the person involved.

If you intend to be a property and finance deputy, you need to show you have the skills to make financial decisions for another person.  What happens if the court grants the application?

You get written notification of what you can and cannot do from the court.

However, you must also report to the Office of the Public Guardian once a year, as it ensures the person for whom you care is protected, and you get the support you need to carry out your role.

You must also pay an annual supervision fee after and a ‘security bond’ if you become a property and affairs deputy. The level of the fee depends on how much supervision you need, £320 for general supervision or £35 for the minimal supervision of a property and finance deputy managing under £21,000.  Why seek the assistance of a solicitor?

Having someone on your side who knows the law and understands that your situation needs great empathy is a significant help when making deputy applications.

Solicitors can take you through the application, step by step, and make the process far less stressful. The legal costs can also be fixed to give you extra peace of mind.

For expert advice on this and similar legal matters, contact Peter Lynn and Partners for a free 30-minute consultation on how we can assist with your deputy application by calling 01792 450010 or email Advice@plandp.co.uk

To arrange a free initial meeting, call 01792 450010 or email Advice@plandp.co.uk 152 SWANSEA LIFE

Preventing Legal Problems

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