Swansea Life March 2020

Y O U R a w a r d - w i n n i n g MAGA Z IN E

SWA NSE A

LIFE

146 march 2020 £2.95

Swansea shopping treats

YOUR VERY

BEST Swansea party pictures

Royal Appointment By

Mumbles special...

Prince William and Kate enjoy a day at the seaside

PLUS: A stunning Gower home that could be yours!

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

Oldwalls, a collection of exclusive wedding venues oldwallscollection.com

Contents...

M A RC H

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actiNG Editor Peter Slee | 01792 545559 peter.slee@reachplc.com

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PUBLISHER Lisa Cameron | lisa.cameron@mediawales.co.uk Photography Adrian White, Jonathan Myers, Hoosh Multimedia, 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 editoral designerS Sandra Evans | sandra.evans@reachplc.com Sue Hall | sue.hall@reachplc.com Lisa Walsh | lisa.walsh@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

19 FASHION

HEALTH & BEAUTY

11. Pump for joy

The one pair of shoes which will work

with every outfit this month

28.

12. BEST KNITS Want to brighten up your winter in

style? Here’s how 18. WEDDING READY...OR NOT?

There’s no need to spend a fortune on

looking good when you attend your first

wedding of 2020 22. PAY DAY TREATS

Best buys to treat yourself to now

that you’ve been paid

COVER IMAGE: Steve Parsons. PA

4 SWANSEA LIFE

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, which is contactable for advice at Independent Press Standards

KEEP IT CLEAN As more and more of us become increasingly interested in the science of skincare, cleansing is the latest area to get a shake-up

34. A HOUSE OF BEAUTY

Make an appointment with Mumbles

hair supremo Lara Johnson 44. A how-to guide to sleeping well

Sketty GP Dr Charlotte Jones teaches

the basics of good sleep hygiene and

the secrets to a restful slumber to keep

your energy levels up

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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123 141 HOUSE & HOME

FLASHBULB!

TIME FOR YOU

66. IT’S ALL ABOUT THE LOCATION

A beautiful Gower seaside home that

could be yours

123. BLACK TIE EVENT

A night to celebrate West Wales’

diverse range of businesses

140. BEST FOOT FORWARD

Join Swansea’s Andrew Morgan for a

nature wetlands walk

88. IN THE GARDEN

Aberglasney’s Joseph Atkin helps you

make the most of your outdoor space

132. CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Swansea’s Copper Coast International

Film Festival

146. What to read

Expert reviews on great books to read

this month

100.

134. STAFF AWARDS

A night to remember for staff at

Swansea’s Marriott Hotel

ESCAPE TO THE CHATEAU? Meet the enterprising tv star couple who renovated a crumbling French castle for the hit Channel 4 show

135. OH WE DO LIKE TO BE BESIDE THE SEASIDE!

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s

visit to Mumbles

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. Prices correct at time of press.

SWA NSEA

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From the editor W

ell, here we go again.

Winter is well on its way to being over and we are (hopefully) on the downward run to early spring.

Honestly, the weeks are going by so quickly, aren’t they? Blink and another month of 2020 has already shot by as we all dust off the cobwebs and start afresh.

So in our pages this March we embrace as many opportunities and new experiences as we can. That’s because we still get excited and wide-eyed about the pockets of fun and glamour in Swansea we get to see from time to time.

And we love telling you all about them too!

It’s a time for us all to revel in. A time of soon-to-be infectious optimism and of the new still to come.

So the worlds of fashion and interiors are here as we leave the greyness of that winter behind. There’s also the chance to discover inspiration when it comes to that all-important ‘me’ time too whether it is simply a walk through a favourite part of Swansea, cooking and baking tips from one of our great local columnists or catching a favourite show or exhibition locally. It is right here for you!

This is also my last issue as acting editor for Laura Davies who has been away on maternity leave. She once again picks up the baton in April making sure you will be in safe hands.

But in the meantime, thanks for PETER SLEE reading.

Acting editor Together, our vision for Swansea Life has always been unashamedly Contact me at celebratory of all the great things peter.slee@reachplc.com Swansea and indeed, south-west Wales, 01792 455559 has to offer.

We make the magazine for you Find us on Facebook I ‘ve had a ball editing Swansea Life @SwanseaLife in my short stint at its helm. I very much hope you have enjoyed it too!

flashbulb!

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

west wales business awards

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EXHIBITION LAUNCH at Ffwrness Theatre, Llanelli

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

Shop local &

132 COPPER COAST INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Save

Download the FREE Big Heart of Swansea money saving app today Visit: bigheartofswansea.co.uk

Brought to you by

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www.bigheartofswansea.co.uk /BigHeartSwansea

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in mumbles

SWANSEA LIFE 7

FASHION

Top of the beauty charts!

STYLE If you think that a hefty dose of hydration can only come from a thick, unctuous cream, think again! Speed Plump mousse is about as airy as Angel Delight but still delivers intense hydration.

The whipped night cream snuggles nicely up to your epidermis and stays put so your skin retains that squidgy, just-moisturised feeling from dusk ‘ til dawn.

Soap & Glory Speed Plump overnight miracle moisture mousse, £14; Boots, Swansea

Gothic Chic The most surprising fashion icon referenced on the autumn/winter catwalks? It's got to be Wednesday Addams, whose trademark ebony pigtails and pallid complexion were seen at the Prada show.

So how do you take this trend from the runway to real life? One shortcut is to pair a Victoriana-style black dress with a pair of chunky boots, a la the Prada models.

Of course, it's going to involve a lot of black, but you can nod to the designers' rose obsession with hints of fuchsia and petal prints.

Black pigtails aren't essential to complete the look, nor is an ashen complexion.

But these Signature lace-up boots, £82 from Next in Swansea, might be!

Photography: Bater&Street

Time to channel your inner

Pretty Woman?

SPARKLE!

It’s true what they say – a beautiful piece of jewellery can make someone sparkle. And that’s particularly true of anyone’s big day when a truly magnificent piece of jewellery has the effortless ability to help its wearer truly eclipse everyone in a room. Whether it’s a necklace that shimmers tantalisingly on a lady’s décolleté or a pair of brilliant earrings that catch people’s eyes as they flash in the light. So we love these three-tiered sterling silver earrings with Swarovski crystal and pearl drops, £125 from Gill Clement in Mumbles.

Polka dots are the transeasonal staple that are a must-have print for your wardrobe, whatever the weather.

From dotty dresses to tops with super large spots, polka dots are the always fashionable, easy-to-wear print for your work, weekend and purely chilling at home wardrobes. Navy spot shirt, £12; F&F at Tesco, Swansea

Must haves...

Falsies don’t have to be fiddly If you’ve never tried them, false eyelashes might seem like they’re not worth the hassle. Or maybe you’ve seen someone sporting thick, moth-like lashes balanced precariously atop their lids and thought, ‘Yikes, that’s not a good look’.

But if you find the right falsies, no one will be able to tell they’re not real, and once you’ve got the hang of applying them, you’ll be hooked.

The Swansea Life team has been trying out these Velour Lashes Effortless Would I Lie? fakes (£24, Boots, Swansea) and liked the result.

From subtle to statement-making, they are designed for easy application.

Now the days are getting just a little brighter and longer, a bold statement piece like a bright bag or a coloured knit can rejuvenate a spring outfit. Shopping for new clothes and accessories that won’t hurt your wallet pre-payday can be tricky, but we’ve found a couple of great buys to bring some excitement into your wardrobe without too high a price tags... ÎÎWool-blend jacket, £39.99; H&M, Swansea

ÍÍKimball jersey smock dress, £10; Primark, Swansea

SWANSEA LIFE 9

10 FASHION

pieces to pack for a winter-sun getaway...

Nothing could be more welcome right now than a first-class ticket to somewhere hot and luxurious. If you are lucky enough to escape late winter for some sun on a far-flung island, here are some essential buys

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4 1. Straw hat, £12.99; TK Maxx, Parc Morfa | 2. Gyo ruffle detail mini dress, £49; Elvi | 3. Pink belted linen shorts, £28; River Island, Swansea 4. Ritchie preppy sunglasses, £15; Accessorize, Swansea | 5. Bottle travel set, £6.99; TK Maxx, Parc Morfa | 6. Yellow rope sandals, £14; Tu at Sainsbury’s, Swansea 7. Seafolly Boyfriend beach shirt, £55; John Lewis, Cardiff | 8. Cut out twist polka dot swimsuit, £8; Primark, Swansea | 9. Beach hut tassel bag, £45; Joe Browns

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PUMP FOR JOY The one pair of shoes which will work with every outfit as we head towards spring

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1. Fixture, £49; Office, Swansea | 2. Kley red point pump, £35; Debenhams, Swansea | 3. Sturdy ballerina, £14; F&F at TescoExtra, Parc Fforestfach 4. LK Bennett Kara flat bow pumps, £150; John Lewis, Cardiff 5. Red ballet shoe, £34.99; TK Maxx, Parc Morfa 6. Black bow ballerina pumps, £29; Lipsy | 7. Cornish lane trainer, £69.95; Seasalt, Mumbles | 8. Animal print flattie, £25.99; Zara, Swansea

SWANSEA LIFE 11

best the very

to brighten up your winter in style Tackle the cold, and hunker down in knitwear that delivers both colour and clout Whether you’re in the market for a super-sized, statement-making cardi wear with jeans and ankle boots on the weekend, or you’re looking for something sleek to layer under a structured blazer for the office – you’re still going to depend on the cosy stuff for a few weeks yet.

From new shapes to cult buys trending amongst the impeccably dressed style set, we’ve taken the stress out of knitwear shopping and rounded-up what we believe to be the very best cosy buys, whatever your budget or sartorial preference.

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Knit waistcoat with pocket details, £25.99; Zara, Swansea

Jumper £19.99, necklace £3.99, earrings £3.99, jeans £25.99; New Look, Swansea

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All from a range at Matalan, Cwmdu

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ÍÍHeavy knit jumper, £12; Primark, Swansea

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Soft touch printed sweater, was £25.99; now £9.99; Zara, Swansea

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we lo e these...

ÏÏCream and black jumper with beading, £24.99; TK Maxx, Parc Morfa

’s editooirce ch

ÏÏAnimal print cardigan, £19.99; Marks and Spencer, Swansea and Parc Trostre

Reversible jacket, £89.95; White Stuff, Mumbles

ÏÏGrey frill jumper, £19.99; New Look, Swansea

ÏÏModern Rarity pleat sleeve cashmere jumper, £195; John Lewis, Cardiff

...and why not wear it with..?

ÏÏAnkle boots, from a range at Next, Parc Morfa

ÏÏAmalfi landscape recycled scarf, £22.50; Accessorize, Swansea

ÏÏLarge tassel tote bag, £89; FatFace, Mumbles

SWANSEA LIFE 17

FASHION

What to wear to a

wedding It’s no secret that dressing for a wedding generally causes stress levels to sky rocket. No matter how far you plan in advance, a rain storm that you haven’t factored in or accidentally turning up in the same printed tea dress as three other guests can put a dampener on the day.

But you needn’t spend a fortune to look good at the impending series of spring nuptials which are almost upon us again.

Is it really possible to reinvent the wheel, style-wise, when it comes to this perennial fashion event?

Here are some 2020-ready style updates to try...

ÍÍJoseph Ribcoff, poa from a range at Rowberrys, Swansea

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1. Blouse top, £59.99; Hobbs, Cardiff 1 2. Shoes, £75; Dune London Montanna 1 3. Lola Skye gold organza blouse, £28; Dorothy Perkins, Swansea 4. Cowl neck dress, £199; Pure Collection 1 5. Andor pink open strappy court shoes, £89; John Lewis, Cardiff 1 6. Necklace, £12; JD Williams 7. Black croc detail handbag; £14; Primark, Swansea 1 8. Ditsy dress: from a range at Next, Swansea (coming soon) 1 9. Lupita Dress, £90; Chi Chi London 10. Gold and pink stripe earrings £18; John Lewis

SWANSEA LIFE 19

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1. Yellow raincoat, £30; Tu at Sainsbury’s, Swansea 2. Fringe biker jacket, £38 3. Charcoal grey floral brushed shift dress, £18 4. Navy sheer print blouse, £18 5. Cherry jumper, £20 6. Knee high boot, £30 7. Navy slip on, £16

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HIGH STREET HOTTEST

FASHION FASHION

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The Swansea Life team shops this season’s high street styles

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1. Black geometric print wrap dress, £40 2. Grey colour block jumper, £34 3. Floral print mesh tunic, £30 4. Blush frill long sleeve top, £32 5. Wide fit black wood heel slingback, £36 6. Wide fit monochrome ballerina shoes, £25

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1. High waist trousers, £25.99 2. Multi charm bracelet, £12.99 3. Contrast pleated dress, £29.99 4. Polka dot print dress, £29.99 5. Vinyl high heel shoes, £39.99 6. Animal print city bag with faux pearl trim, £29.99

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1. Jacket £35.99, jeans £25.99, heels £19.99, top £14.99, hat £9.99 2. Rust dress, £24.99 3. Petite black leather-look belted pencil skirt 4. Curves camel scuba tie peplum top, £19.99 5. Khaki denim tie waist cargo trousers, £19.99 6. Sandals, £23.99

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1. Per Una coat £129; roll neck, £35; trouser £49.50; trainer, £19.50 2. Dress, £29.99 3. Earrings, £15 4. Crossover jumper, £29.99 5. Boots, £69 6. Belt, £12.50 7. Backpack, £29.50

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SWANSEA LIFE 21

FASHION

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1. Colour block dress, £79; Crew Clothing, Cardiff 1 2. Shoulder strap dress, from a range at M&S, Swansea 3. Black colour block cape, £35; Wallis, Swansea 1 4. Brora alpaca cardigan, £195; John Lewis, Cardiff 5. Blaze tunic top, £69.95; Seasalt, Mumbles 1 6. Jessica linen spot jacket, £69.96; White Stuff, Mumbles1 7. Print dress, £42; Next, Swansea 8. Petite grey glitter mesh pleated midi skirt, £25.99; New Look, Swansea 1 9. Sheer ikat longline blouse, £14; Matalan, Cwmdu 22 SWANSEA LIFE

365 sleepless nights 2184 nappy changes 17472 baby wipes 2920 feeds 1 Mother’s day

MOTHER’S DAY AT THE VALE RESORT

Don’t forget to show her how much you care with a treat she won’t forget this Mother’s Day.

Mother’s Day Carvery Lunch with Live Entertainment Family

£85* | Adults £35* | Children £15*

Mother’s Day Spa from

Mother’s Day Champagne Afternoon Tea at Hensol Castle

£79*pp

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Mother’s Day Gift Vouchers Make the perfect gift

Vale Resort, Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY *Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability.

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Celebrating 21 years in business Winning awards, accreditation, experience and great knowledge along the way.

The ultimate destination to go, with experts within the Beauty and cosmetics industry Check out the extensive treatment list and book online at www.SwanseaSunLounge.co.uk H.I.W Registered, accredited clinic Member of British Association of Cosmetic Nurses BACN Member of SAVEFACE, accredited clinic Swansea Council Registered Royal College of Nursing Nursing & Midwifery Council NMC Chromogenix Centre of Excellence HydraFacial MD accredited clinic 5* Best Beauty and Spa Experience - Phorest Certificate of Endeavour with the WBTA Best Beauty Salon in the Swansea Life Awards Good Salon Guide five star awarded salon VISIA - Worlds Best Facial Analysis System

opening times: Monday - Friday 9am to 9pm Saturday 9am to 5pm • Sunday CLOSED

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BOOK ONLINE VIA ‘THE SUN LOUNGE’ APP OR VIA OUR WEBSITE

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Advertising Feature

Turn back the clock with confidence

Choosing the right cosmetic treatment can be difficult, so it’s best to consult a medical expert who combines all the latest knowledge with years of experience. JENNY WHITE introduces Alan Wyn Jones, owner of Defy Time in Killay.

Age-defying treatments are continually evolving, so when putting your face in the hands of an expert, it’s important to choose someone who is at the forefront of new developments as well as truly experienced in the tried and tested techniques.

Alan Wyn Jones is a prime example. If you visit his beautiful Defy Time clinic in Killay, you’ll get a detailed one-to-one consultation with him, a tailor-made solution and the assurance that Alan – a doctor with decades of experience – will deliver your treatment and after care personally.

In a country where you don’t have to be medically qualified to deliver many such treatments, Alan’s medical qualifications provide important reassurance, as does the knowledge that most of his clients find him through word-of-mouth recommendation.

Alan, a former GP has been pioneering

cosmetic treatments for many years, having founded his cosmetic clinic in 2005.

Among many other treatments, he is an expert in Sculptra, which for many years has been considered the best and most reliable way of replacing the facial volume we lose as we age, and is renowned for producing natural looking results – something Alan treats as a priority.

“One of the main areas of improvement in facial aesthetics is the ability to understand how the face ages and correct it in a much more natural, undetectable way than was done in the past,” he says. “My job is to ask the patients what concerns them, what makes them unhappy about their appearance, and then offer them the widest possible range of treatments and discuss with them the potential outcome, the cost and the downtime, and then fit the treatment to suit their particular lives.”

With this in mind, Defy Time offers a broad range of treatments, from classic fillers, lasers and Botox through to the very latest innovations that use platelets from your blood and stem cells from your fat to stimulate an authentically youthful look.

This approach can also achieve stunning results for acne scarring.

“Fat is not like a filler – you get an ongoing improvement to the structure of the face, it creates new blood vessels, and is totally different and ongoing. This is because our Fat contains over 500 times more stem cells than our bone marrow,” he says.

“One of the things I love about my work is seeing how people’s confidence improves

after receiving this treatment.”

call him directly with any queries.

Alan’s priority is to give lasting results, so he is pleased to give treatments that do not require regular costly top-ups.

“The big aspect for us is care – when people come here waiting for their first treatment they are sometimes very anxious and it’s our job to look after them every step of the way. We have delightful staff and our patients have a lovely relationship with them. This is something we do because we appreciate how important trust and respect is in our line of work, but is often sadly lacking. Besides we get great job satisfaction when we see such excellent results.”

“I regularly see people I haven’t seen for six years, and I am delighted with that – I want them to enjoy their lives, and only come and see me when need to,” he says.

When not treating his patients, Alan travels the world attending conferences and masterclasses on how to achieve the best results in his clinic. He’s also always on hand for after-care advice. All his patients are given his phone number so they can

Better still – people will notice how lovely you look, but you won’t look as though you have had obvious “work” done.

466 Gower Road, Killay, Swansea, SA2 7DZ T: 01792 208466 • E: info@defy-time.co.uk www.defy-time-cosmetics.co.uk

HAIR & BEAUTY

happy

skin

The great cleanse debate: should you use a foam or a balm?

As more and more of us become increasingly interested in the science of skincare, cleansing is the latest area to get a shake-up.

Chances are, you do it morning and night, and if you’re a skincare pro, you’ll be following the 60-second rule of washing your face for a full minute. There’s nothing more satisfying than creating a nice foam to scrub your face with – it really feels like you’re getting squeaky clean in the suds.

However, we have bad news: foaming cleansers might not be the best choice for your skin. In fact, there’s a growing trend for balms which are particularly beneficial in cold, drying weather. And while you might not need to do away with the fun foam altogether, this is why you should be thinking about using a balm instead...

What’s the difference between foaming and non-foaming cleansers?

The clue is really in the name. A foaming cleanser is one you rub between your hands to create a foam, something the non-foaming version can’t do. The latter category includes jellies and balms.

“Cleansing balms have a mess-free texture and can be much more convenient when applying, they are solid at room temperature but become softer when massaged into the Dr Preema Vig skin and should be removed using a warm facecloth,” says Dr Preema Vig, medical director of the Dr Preema London Clinic.

Cleansing foams “normally have a lighter consistency”, she says, while balms “are a thicker, buttery consistency”.

Are non-foaming cleansers better?

“I believe that a cleansing balm is more effective than a foam at cleaning skin and removing make up,” says Anton Alexandroff, consultant dermatologist at BMI The Manor Hospital in Bedford. “A balm is more moisturising and is suitable for all skin types, especially dry skin. I would advise people with dry skin to avoid foam, because of its tendency to dry the skin further.”

Dr Amber Woodcock, medical director at Anton Alexandroff Cosmetics Doctor in Norwich, agrees with Alexandroff’s sentiment, saying: “Typically, a balm will feel more hydrating and helps those with normal or dry 28 SWANSEA LIFE

skin.” She also particularly recommends those who wear a lot of make-up give balms a go, as it’s a gentle way to melt all traces off your skin.

Are foams all bad?

Don’t worry – this doesn’t necessarily mean you have to cut foaming cleansers out of your life completely. Historically, foaming cleansers contained ingredients like sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) which Woodcock says Dr Amber Woodcock “can be drying or irritating to some skin types, and therefore people with sensitive skin tended to avoid foaming cleansers”.

However, now you can find products without SLS. “Check instead that the label mentions ‘hydrating ingredients’ rather than SLS,” she adds. “Those with acne, congestion or oiliness may prefer a foaming cleanser.”

Woodcock also advises those with acne-prone skin should “be careful that the oils in the balm are not pore blocking”.

At the end of the day, Abi Cleeve, founder of skinSense By Abi Cleeve, says: “It’s important to consider that simplifying product choices into ‘good’ or ‘bad’ can lead us to limit options unnecessarily.”

Should you switch up your routine depending on the time of day?

If you’re going to focus on one time of day to cleanse, Cleeve suggests the evening, because there’s “more work to do to ensure the skin’s surface is clear of SPF (which should be used daily, year-round), makeup and environmental and atmospheric aggressors, particularly for city dwellers”. The evening skin cleanse prepares for the best possible absorption of overnight skincare products, where the skin is at its Abi Cleeve optimum to receive and have them work most effectively, she says.

For an evening wash, Cleeve notes: “A balm can be massaged for a longer, deeper, more relaxing cleansing ritual, particularly when taken off with a hot cloth, for added gentle exfoliation.”

She also says the morning cleanse can be optional, depending on skin type: “A splash of water for those keeping things minimal, or a small amount of cleanser for those who may have used a few steps in their product choices the night before.”

HUDA KATTAN’S SKINCARE RULES 1

What balms should you try?

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1. Elemental Herbology Purify & Soothe facial cleansing balm with muslin cloth, £30 2. Clean Break cleanser, £15, available from Avon; 3. REN Rosa Centifolia No.1 purity cleansing balm, £23, Escentual; 4. EVE LOM cleanser, £40; 5. Pixi nourishing cleansing balm, £18; 6. Darphin Aromatic cleansing balm, £35, Escentual

Huda Kattan

Having conquered the makeup world with really pulls the make-up off. Next, I go in with a Tatcha The Deep Cleanse Exfoliating Huda Beauty – a company valued at Cleanser and the 111 Skin Antioxidant £935m and followed by a legion of more Energising Essence. It’s really the best than 41 million fans on Instagram – Huda Kattan is now setting her sights on skincare essence I’ve tried. I use Clinique Clarifying Lotion 2 to keep my skin clear. I will then with the arrival of Wishful. use a hyaluronic acid serum, I like Dr “Wishful is completely different from Barbara Sturm’s, and Dr Jart+ Peptidin Huda Beauty,” the Dubai-based CEO said.

Firming Serum. After that I use some “It’s not for the cake face,” she says, Wishful products (that haven’t referring to the heavily made up launched yet), the moisturiser look for which she’s become – which I’m obsessed with and known. “It’s for everyone.” our rose oil which has literally First up in the Wishful product changed my life.” portfolio is Yo Glow Enzyme 3. Facials aren’t essential Scrub, an exfoliator that “I don’t do facials,” Kattan says. combines pineapple and “Facial massage is like a papaya enzymes with alpha and workout for the face, I love beta hydroxy acids to sweep doing that. I’m really into away dead skin cells and reveal anti-ageing with facial yoga, a fresh, glowing complexion. those kind of things, I think Kattan has been trialling the that’s the way of the future.” scrub during the development 4. Feed your skin from the process and says it has inside transformed her skin.

“I eat pretty ‘clean’, I don’t like “I’ve just never had noneating greasy food or food textured skin, I always saw my that’s too salty,” she says. “I like pores, always saw the texture,” omega three fatty acids in my the blogger turned food, things like olives and entrepreneur says. salmon and avocado are really “And now for the first time good for my skin and my hair.” when I don’t wear make-up I’m 5. Try some tools like, ‘Oh my god, look at my skin!’ ÏÏWishful Yo Glow Also in Kattan’s skin-boosting I didn’t even know how to feel enzyme scrub, £34, arsenal? A range of beauty like that before.”

Cult Beauty gadgets, her favourite being red We asked the 36-year-old to light therapy devices, which are said to share her ultimate skincare tips... fade scars and prevent the signs of ageing.

1. Don’t cleanse in the morning “I also like to do EMS (electrical muscle “I think your natural oils are actually some stimulation) for the face. It was so common of the best oils for your skin, so it’s to get a facelift when you turn 40, but I feel important that you really preserve those like that’s just going to become extinct. oils. My morning routine is simple. I splash People are going to be more into EMS and my face with water and then I’m good to all those things.” go.”

6. You don’t have to spend a fortune 2. Cleanse thoroughly at night Kattan’s nightly routine, on the other hand, on skincare While Kattan’s skincare routine may be has no less than nine steps, to ensure her more complicated than most, the beauty face is thoroughly cleansed, treated and buff doesn’t think you have to spend a lot moisturised. “Because I wear so much of money to get good skin: “I believe in make-up it’s pretty intense,” she says. “First I circulating (with facial massage or tools) use Huda Beauty Makeup Remover Balm. and do those kind of things as opposed to That’s the only thing that removes a lot of shellacking on creams that are just like intense make-up. Then I’ll take a gentle doing little things.” microfibre cloth and use it wet, because it

SWANSEA LIFE 29

THECUTTINGEDGE

Marc Isaac has successfully fused his work as an educator with his role running the two award-winning Hair Lounge salons. He told JENNY WHITE why education is at the core of keeping his business up-to-date.

The two award-winning Hair Lounge salons are only part of Marc Isaac’s story.

His passion for hair also encompasses a successful career as an educator, teaching the next generation of hairdressers at a time when they are much needed by the industry. Hair salons are currently facing a recruitment crisis, and Marc has made it his mission to continue a tradition of excellence by training students in Gower College Swansea, while also ensuring his staff are at the forefront of the latest developments.

“One of the secrets of a successful salon is to invest in educating your staff,” he says. “There are always new products and techniques being developed, and if you keep your staff abreast of these you get amazing results. Each member of staff goes on a minimum of five courses a year, and at the start of each

year we close the salons for six days of in-house training, so that if someone has discovered a new colouring technique, for example, we will deliver that to the rest the team.”

The results speak for themselves: Marc’s two branches of the Hair Lounge – one in Fforestfach and one in Skewen, have been winners in the Swansea Life Awards, The Welsh Hair and Beauty Awards, and

the British Hair and Beauty Awards.

Marc has two colour specialists who are educated to degree level in colouring, and is working to expand their number to six over the next year.

One of the challenges faced by salons today is facing the unrealistic expectations some customers have after seeing colour transformations on the internet: they do not always realise that a drastic colour change cannot be achieved in just one sitting; nor are they aware of the damage a dramatic colour change can do to their hair. By having highly qualified staff, Marc ensures the right advice is given, and that colour changes are done with great care and skill, resulting in happy customers whose hair stays in good condition.

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“We use the best colouring products available, plus Olaplex, which stops the hair from deteriorating and builds the strength back up,” he says. “It’s rewarding when customers comment on the condition of their hair – they say they can’t believe how much better their hair feels after having it coloured.”

Marc’s salons provide a beautiful and relaxing environment in which to spend a few hours: both are decorated in Parisian style, and each salon has a

development room for customers to enjoy while their colours are developing.

“We found that customers don’t like having to sit at a styling station while their colours develop so we created rooms with tub chairs, mood lighting, magazines, coffee and TV for them to enjoy while their colours are developing,” says Marc.

Having founded his first Hair Lounge eight years ago, with the second branch in Skewen following five years ago, Marc

has become accustomed to juggling the demands of teaching and running a busy business.

“I have a massive passion for hair but since opening the salons I’ve also discovered I love business,” he says. “I’ve become passionate about bringing it all together - great hair, great education and great business. I find those three work really well together and I’m delighted with how much we have achieved in the last eight years.”

38 Ravenhill Road | Fforestfach | Swansea | SA5 5AW | T: 01792 587444 72 New Road | Skewen | Neath Port Talbort | SA10 6HE | T: 01792 812858 www.hairloungebymarcisaac.co.uk

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 spring Before

No Pore-Blem ucy’s makeup primer all over the look as always base then Cover FX starts with skincare. I started Powerplay with a fine mist of foundation in two Caudalie Beauty shades, one to match Lucy’s Elixir mist complexion and followed by Caudalie Premiere one the same base Cru moisturiser massaged into colour but two the skin with a jade roller. shades darker to On the eyes, I applied Urban enhance the 3D of her bone Decay primer potion then structure. I used the flat-topped followed with Bobbi Brown eye crayon in sunlight gold. Using the foundation brush and buffed the first shade of foundation over the all-over eye brush from the whole face, avoiding the eye area Walford-Richards Designs Brush and also taking it down the neck.

Collection, I blended out the Then a tiny amount of the darker crayon across the lash line up to shade and blending it seamlessly the crease and out to nothing. around the hairline and under the Taking the KKW X Mario cheekbones.

Palette, I used the eye finishing I used Charlotte Tilbury brush to blend the taupe/brown concealer to erase any dark shade over the crayon, circles, blending it onto concentrating on the Use Code: the skin with the lash line and the chris20 for concealer brush. socket, stretching it Taking the angled out to a soft point everything site wide cheek brush, I applied on the outside of www.

Laura Mercier Praline the eyes. walfordrichards cream cheek colour to Taking the designs.co.uk the apples of the cheeks. smudge brush blend Then taking the powder a small amount of a brush, I applied Ben Nye darker brown shade gently glowing light banana powder to into the crease and on the outer corner of the lash line, then blend set the base. Anastasia Beverly Hills brow wiz in dark brown the gold foil shade across the shaped the brows and I used Bite “ball” of the eye.

Beauty lip pencil in guava to line Taking a black gel liner and a the lip and the lip crayon in flat liner brush I pushed a tight electric coral to fill out the full lip line into the underneath of the shape. upper lashes, going from outer I then took the angled cheek corner to inner corner avoiding colour brush and Charlotte the waterline. Using the angled Tilbury Film star liner brush I lined the upper lash line out into a soft wing. Using the Bronze and Glow, to pencil brush blend the taupe into accentuate around the hairline and the lower lash line, applying Touch In Sol Stretchex mascara to under the cheekbones. Then upper and lower lashes.

Taking Bobbi Brown Then I applied the Lash Highlight in afternoon Unlimited Dbl7 lashes and to glow to the browbone, finish the eyes run Bobbi Brown cupids bow and top of Waterproof Kohl pencil in black the cheekbones and into the water line. the collarbone for that For the most gorgeous final Va-Va Voom! complexion, I used Touch in Sol

L

20% off

32 SWANSEA LIFE

 All hair products by Bardot Haircare. I used lift and volume spray and finishing hairspray  Photography by James Richards  Makeup brushes: Walford-Richards Designs  Makeup and hair by Chris Howells Makeup

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HAIR & BEAUTY

Makeover!

W ITH

L ARA

JOHNSON

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

ter af

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

LILLY says I am coming to the end of my studies in Swansea and looking forward to lots of parties and balls. I have had long hair for as long as I can remember and really felt the need for a change to how I usually wear it. I definitely wanted something far more directional and possibly dressed up. I was just bored and want to go to my events feeling energised! I love what the team have done. The style 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 wearing her hair down looking the same. The team in the salon work on photoshoots and shows around the world and love to introduce more directional and fashion orientated dressings to their clients. With Lilly we went for a directional shape that made a real statement and took. Her away from the same old hair down look. Loads of texture and movement. We actually loved Lillys natural hair colour so rather than trying to change it we enhanced it. We took Lillys natural dark tones and added depth and shine throughout. We finished Lillys hair with Sebastian Professional products to create texture and shine.

Enjoy the party!

B e f o re ...

34 SWANSEA LIFE

...

Step by step...

ish fin

Ro p e t w i st p o n y ta i l Inspired by the catwalk trend for classic sleek styling, this style is timeless and can be dressed up for the evening or given less volume for an everyday look.

Difficulty level? Medium Ideal hair length? Below the shoulder Assistance needed A friend could be handy until you get the hang of it Accessories With a little practice, No What you need? n Brush n Strong hairband n Small clear hairband n Grips n Hairspray

befor e

1

2

3

4

5

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Part your hair on the side at the front of your head. From the back section of hair (approximately your crown) lift up smaller sections and tease close to the root. If you want an evening look this is where you can put in plenty of height

Direct the teased section back and gently smooth over with a brush. Secure with a small amount of hairspray

Secure the hair into a ponytail at the nape of the neck.

Take a section of hair Twist the section to to you desired the end and secure thickness and smooth with a small band over some serum to help with shine

6

Step 6 Wrap the twist around the base of the ponytail and secure with a pin or grip

.

SWANSEA LIFE 35

an evening with

Lee Stafford Discover Lee’s award-winning training techniques and cutting-edge collections at this unique employer event for hairdressers

Tuesday 24 March, 6pm Neath College Drinks and Canapés on arrival

Ticket only event To book call: 0800 013 2544 £10 per person

www.nptcgroup.ac.uk

We go to for your hair care at No.64 HAIR EXTENSIONS Great Lengths Hair's focus is to provide upscale, quality and professional hair extensions giving instant length and volume to your hair in the natural looking way, to give you the perfect

locks you have always dreamed of. Great Lengths do not compromise condition, which is why we like them so much.

To ensure maximum return on your Great Lengths we provide you with a complimentary home care kit which includes specialist

Great Lengths shampoo and conditioner. Plus a complimentary hair extension blow dry check up a week or two after application where we check that the extensions are sitting correctly and answer any questions you may have.

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 call us or come visit us

There’s no place like Holm P I C T U R E S Q U E L O C A T I O N • E X C L U S I V E

U S E

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South East Wedding Venue of the Year Holm House Hotel, Marine Parade, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, CF64 3BG Contact our wedding and events team on: 02920 706029 | events@holmhousehotel.co.uk | www.holmhousehotel.com

Unique offering sees salon celebrate 10 years of hair styling success

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10

YEARS UNIQUE HAIR DESIGN

V

ICKY JONES was lucky to find the perfect platform for her passion for hairdressing - and it is one that has been enjoyed by countless customers ever since.

Unique Hair Design in Gorseinon was a case of a dream fulfilled for her and it has gone so well that Vicky and her team have now celebrated 10 years of success.

All the hard work in between has paid off and it was time to mark the special milestone with a champagne party for old and new customers.

The passion is still there for

Vicky, who said: “We aim to deliver quality everyday wearable styles and specialise in colour. I teach the art of colouring hair for the brand Mood, which is the brand of colour we use in the salon.�

She is qualified to advanced level 4 in hairdressing, holding a diploma in hairdressing, while the salon itself has a 4 star rating in the Good Salon Guide.

There is further recognition for Vicky and her team as extension artists and for the salon as a blow dry bar.

She trains her team to a very high standard and it is a continuing process to ensure they stay on trend with the latest techniques.

And that brings benefits to the customer, whether they are looking to change their hairstyle, update their hair colour or reinvent their look with a re-style.

Vicky and her team are here to help old, new and future customers, and advise on which hairstyle would suit their face shape and lifestyle in order to create a look that they will absolutely love.

It has been 10 years of success and there is more to come with plans to expand soon.

Our open day to celebrate our 10th birthday

A collection of our unique styles and colours

2 West Street | Gorseinon | Swansea | SA4 4AA Tel: 01792 891848 www.facebook.com/UniqueHairDesignGorseinon

HEALTH & WELLBEING

VITAMIn

D

Why we need it Are you deficient in vital vitamin D? It’s important for bone health and the immune system. Lauren Taylor speaks to the experts...

I

t could be five or six months since you’ve felt the warmth of sun rays on your skin.

Scientists used to believe we could get enough vitamin D during summer to last us throughout winter, explains Professor Susan LanhamNew, head of nutritional sciences at the University of Surrey, “that’s been proved wrong.” She says: “There are so many people – we’re talking millions - who are Rich natural sources vitamin D deficient, of vitamin D are and really have no limited to oily fish idea.”

The British Nutrition Foundation estimate that one in five of us are deficient in vitamin D – its main role being to regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body. As a result, Public Health England guidelines say everyone aged five and above should be

40 SWANSEA LIFE

getting 10 micrograms of vitamin D daily.

“In the summer it’s not a problem, because you can get some vitamin D from just being outside – face, backs of hands, neck, even if it’s not a sunny day, because UV rays would still get to your skin, so you’d start to make some vitamin D,” says Lanham-New, a member of The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) and the vitamin D working group.

Can we get it from food?

In the winter months, food is often the only natural source. However, Lanham-New says it’s “really hard” to get enough from diet alone, as nature’s sources are pretty limited.

“You’re not going to get more than three or four micrograms, unless you really love your fish and eggs,” she explains. “A lot of breakfast cereals are fortified, but you’d have to eat quite a lot of them! The only plant source is mushrooms, either safe wild mushrooms or mushrooms that have had UV radiation.” She advises putting button mushrooms on a windowsill on a sunny day.

Dietitian Dr Carrie Ruxton at the Health and Food Supplements Information Service (HSIS), adds: “Rich natural sources are limited to oily fish (around nine micrograms per 100 grams, except for herring which contains 16

micrograms), eggs (two micrograms per medium egg) and liver (0.5 to 1 microgram per 100 grams).”

So even if you eat a healthy diet, you could still be deficient. “The bottom line is that people are nowhere near that 10 micrograms during the winter,” says Lanham-New. Which is why it’s advised we take a supplement.

She goes on to explain that the reason scientists have misunderstood the vitamin in the past is that it’s not actually a ‘vital amine’ (a vitamin) in the true sense of the word. “It is not an ‘amine’ group, but it is vital. Its correct definition is a ‘prohormone’, so I think we made a big mistake, because everyone thinks of it as a vitamin, but it’s not.

“It’s the only nutrient in the broad spectrum of macro and micronutrients where your main source of the nutrient is not diet, it’s UVB exposure, and that’s very unusual.”

5 Vitamin D is important to the immune system

Are there any symptoms of a deficiency?

If millions of us are unknowingly deficient in vitamin D, does that mean it’s symptomless? “No, not at all,” says Lanham-New. “When people feel really tired, have muscle ache or lethargy, these are symptoms people just associate with winter. It’s dark, it’s cold and wet, and while that might be a contributor, those are absolutely symptoms of what we would call mild osteomalacia,” which can cause bone softening over time.

“It’s the adult form of rickets; it presents itself as aches or feeling really tired.”

Secondly, vitamin D is important to the immune system, which can often be more run down after winter. “We always associate the common cold with (needing) vitamin C, but actually, it can have as much to do with vitamin D,” she says.

“So if you’re deficient, your immune system is going to be much more susceptible to colds.”

What other risks are there?

“There’s data starting to come out also for diabetes risk. So what we call pancreatic beta cells, what we use to produce insulin, they need vitamin D to be at optimal working. So, of course, if you don’t have enough vitamin D, that’s going to be an issue,” says Lanham-New. Certain groups of people are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency.

“South Asian men and women who dress for cultural stance, who cover up,” adds Lanham-New, “they really are vitamin D deficient.”

In addition, it’s particularly vital that pregnant women take the recommended 10 microgram supplement.

Ruxton says: “There is emerging evidence that a low vitamin D status in the womb predisposes a child to an increased risk of type 1 diabetes.”

After birth, formula milk is fortified with vitamin D, but it can become an issue when children no longer take formula milk, as cows’ milk isn’t usually fortified in the UK. Meanwhile, around a quarter of 11 to 18-year-olds are D3 is the preferred vitamin D insufficient, says Ruxton. form of You’ll find vitamin D supplements, and vitamin D multivitamins that contain vitamin D, in most and can major pharmacies. be taken For more information, visit the British in capsule form Nutrition Foundation at Nutrition.org.uk

MYTHS ABOUT DEPRESSION

Mental health awareness is improving but, as counsellor Lynn Crilly tells Lisa Salmon, there’s still work to be done.

Whether or not you’ve had to deal with some of life’s hard knocks, whatever your background, depression doesn’t discriminate.

It can hit for absolutely no reason, or creep in when you’re forced to cope with tough life events.

“Depression can affect people Lynn Crilly, from all different walks of life, author of Hope regardless of social background, age, gender, sexuality or ethnicity,” With Depression (Hammersmith says counsellor Lynn Crilly, author Books, £16.99) of Hope With Depression.

“It’s a deep-rooted, debilitating and destructive mental illness that affects both the sufferers and their carers alike, and ‘facts’ are often quoted in relation to depression that are actually myths, which can prevent people from really being able to understand depression.”

Here, Crilly tackles some of the common myths...

1. It’s obvious when people have depression “Many people with depression hide it very successfully, or at least try their hardest to. They may be so good at concealing how they really feel that only the most alert loved ones may see what’s really happening behind that smile. This is where knowing someone well, and knowing what’s normal for them, is vital.”

2. Antidepressants are the only way to treat depression “Some people see antidepressant medication as something to be feared, because of concerns about its side-effects and whether it could lead to an addiction. Those concerns should not be ignored, but neither should they put people off seeking medical help.

However, that’s not to say all responsibility should be handed to a medical practitioner. The patient themselves, along with their loved ones, should remain alert to any potential problems they may cause.

Medication is only one line of treatment. It’s not always needed and therapy or counselling can also be very effective.”

3. Depression affects mainly women “While the number of women known to be suffering with depression is greater than the number of men, we also know men are much less likely to come forward to seek help for their symptoms, and in our ‘macho’ society. However, the shocking fact that the biggest cause of death among men under the age of 50 is suicide clearly shows that men are also suffering with mental illness.”

4. There’s no longer a taboo about depression “Make no mistake, huge strides have been made in the way depression is recognised and understood. The younger generation of Royals have led their own campaign, Heads Together, to help break the stigma around mental illness. Suddenly it seemed awareness about these conditions had been placed firmly under the spotlight, and a real shift seems to have occurred in how mental illness is viewed at work and in wider society. However, the battle is not won there’s still a long way to go in society’s understanding of the issues.”

5. You can’t help people with depression “You can’t wave a magic wand and make the depression disappear, but you can support someone with the illness and show them acceptance and understanding, and in doing so you’ll help make their journey through depression easier to bear. Plus, appropriate professionals, teachers, youth workers and employers can play a very important role in ensuring they deal with depression appropriately, just as they would a physical illness.”

SWANSEA LIFE 41

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Dr Alan Jones

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

ASK

DR. CHARLOTTE

It is World Sleep Day in March and I have noticed more patients of all ages contacting the surgeries I work in complaining of difficulty sleeping and requesting sleeping tablets.

Sleep deprivation can be a really frustrating problem for patients.

Thankfully for many it is usually short lived. But for others it can be a longer term problem sometimes linked to other health conditions.

What is insomnia?

Insomnia can include difficulty falling asleep, waking through the night, staying asleep in the morning and waking un-refreshed (which then affects your ability to function during the day).

What can I do?

The experts recommend “sleep hygiene” 1. The best treatment is to try and re-establish your normal sleep routine – tricky and doesn’t give instant results but will work if you persist. It is essentially a bit like getting a baby to change routine from day to evening sleeping.

insomnia As the benefits of sleep for physical and mental health continue to pile up, we’ve become obsessed with whether we’re getting enough.

Here, Swansea Life and Sketty GP Dr Charlotte Jone reveals how to improve the quality of your slumber

42 SWANSEA LIFE

2. Cut down your tea, coffee and alcohol in the day.

3. Increase exercise during the day.

4. Don’t nap in the day, no matter how tempting.

5. Try and keep a regular time for both going to bed when you feel tired and a time for waking that you can stick to.

6. An hour before bed, make sure you start relaxing. That includes switching off electronic gadgets and letting your mind/ brain switch off. There are lots of good apps that can be found on line and music help with relaxing such as Headspace, Sleepio, Pzizz (be warned though, not all are free).

7. Consider a warm bath or warm drink (not coffee/tea).

8. Consider turning the temperature up a little in the bedroom, keeping it dark (I think black-out blinds are marvellous) and having a cosy and comfortable bed and pillows.

9. When in bed, if you find you are still lying there wide awake after 30 minutes, go downstairs and repeat steps 6, 7 and 10.

10. If you have thoughts racing around your head of things to do / worries etc – then right them down on a pad of paper by the bed . Don’t look at this until the morning, then follow steps 6 and / or 7.

Next day, look at the list and try to work through those things that are on your mind.

Why won’t my GP give me sleeping tablets?

Many people think that sleeping tablets will be a “quick fix”. While GPs do use them in certain circumstances usually for short periods of time, they are mainly avoided.

Medication can often cause a “hangover” feeling into the morning, impaired concentration and slowed responses which can affect ability to use machinery (including driving). More worryingly, they can increase your risks of falling and sustaining injuries, tolerance to the medication (thus needing higher doses) higher risk of side effects and of course dependency / addiction to the medication.

Sleep experts still advise sleep hygiene or cognitive behaviour therapy (see below) before contemplating medication.

I have heard there are herbal remedies and medicines from the chemist I can buy?

You can purchase various sleep aids from the pharmacist but always ensure it is safe to use especially if you are on other medication by asking your pharmacist.

Again, experts advise try sleep hygiene first.

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BRIDE

& WEDDING... you your

46 SWANSEA LIFE

Teacher Nia Howarth and property manager Ben Hole from Penclawdd chose Fairyhill in Gower as the backdrop for their wedding day, resulting in the most breathtaking wedding photos and an adventure filled day for their guests. The couple left their glamorous venue to do the talking for their relaxed and romantic day, adorning it with flowers and understated decorations for a decor that suited them perfectly. They spoke to Peter Slee about their big day...

Photography: WeCreate

How did you first meet?

great difficulty in ski boots) and asked me to marry him!

It was 12 years ago as love struck teenagers and we were together for a few years before going our separate ways. Then, 10 years after we first met, we got back together… As the saying goes “If it’s meant to be, it will be”.

Where did you get married?

How did he propose?

What attracted you to the venue?

Ben proposed in the snow. We were on a skiing holiday in France with my family when he dropped down on one knee (with

Ten months after Ben popped the question, we got married in Fairyhill.

Well Ben’s dad is actually one of the owners of Fairyhill but I can truly say we chose the venue on merit, it really is one of the best in

Swansea and it was an honour to have all our friends and family experience the venue as a wedding guest.

I knew I didn’t want to have a long engagement so needed a venue I could trust to take care of everything.

I also had a winter wedding in mind, and with its log fires, magical grounds and cosy interiors Fairyhill just seemed the perfect venue for a Christmas wedding.

SWANSEA LIFE 47

BRIDE

What really swung it though was the new epic extension. The ‘K’ room is truly breathtaking. It’s like getting married in the trees! The grounds at Fairyhill are perfect for photographs too (even in the rain!) and the staff are all unbelievably friendly, hardworking, and accommodating.

What was your wedding theme?

We wanted a winter wedding but didn’t have a ‘theme’ as such. We just knew we wanted to get the important things right: tasty food, plenty of drinks, and good music which would get people dancing.

I guess the theme was just a perfect day with all of our closest family and friends. The rest just fell all into place.

What stationary did you have?

I have always enjoyed doodling and calligraphy, so shortly after we got engaged my mum and I booked onto a course with London Calligraphy. I would highly recommend the trip to London to anyone who is interested in calligraphy or sign writing. It was amazing!

Thanks to my new ‘talent’ I decided I would do my own stationary. I personalised tree baubles for our guests’ place names and favours, and (with a bit of inspiration from Pinterest) wrote blackboards for our table plan, welcome sign, etc.

What did you wear? Tell us about your gown…

I wasn’t sure whether a two-piece dress would be the best option for a wedding in December, but it was the first one I tried on and I fell in love with it. It made me feel like me! I did have a slight panic the week before the wedding as the skirt didn’t fit me properly! I took it to the most wonderful lady in the ‘Attic Wardrobe’, on Plymouth street in Swansea. I can’t recommend her enough!

She altered the skirt in just three days and it fitted perfectly after she had worked her magic.

My earrings were from a company in Cornwall called Waunderlust life. I went for the ‘calming’ stone, and they certainly worked! I treated myself to a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes, which in hindsight wasn’t the best idea as I’m not sure they were designed for a day of dancing and walking through mud for photographs…but they did look pretty on the day!

What was the cake like?

The cake looked and tasted stunning. Alex baked three sponges: lemon, Victoria sponge, and chocolate and salted caramel.

They were all delicious! I was a bit of a nightmare bride as I hadn’t really thought about how to display them, but Alex was unbelievably helpful and she worked with the florist to set it up beautifully on the day.

How did your dress make you feel?

My dress just made me feel like me! I felt comfortable all day and danced all night in it.

What did the groom wear and where were the suits from?

The boys suits were from Dyfed Menswear.

They all scrubbed up pretty well!

48 SWANSEA LIFE

How did you feel when you first saw him at the altar?

When I walked into the ceremony room I was filled with an overwhelming sense of excitement! That feeling stayed with me all day. It sounds cliché, but it really was the happiest day of my life.

Tell us about your bridesmaids, who were they?

My bridesmaids were my closest girls, who I’m lucky enough to have been friends with for years. I also had Ben’s sister, Vicky, as a bridesmaid, and my brother’s wife, Bec, who are also extremely good friends. I had the very best girl gang!

What was your best memory of the ceremony?

I loved walking in to ‘Over the Rainbow’ by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole. It’s the most beautiful song and it reminds me of my very dear grandma. As well as that, my brother’s wife read a wonderful piece called “He’s not perfect”, written by Bob Marley. And, I guess I should also say marrying the love of my life!

How did you decorate your venue?

Eve did the most sensational job of decorating the venue with flowers. She is one of a kind! I also roped my very clever dad into covering the ceiling of the ‘K’ Room with fairylights. Spending hours suspending them from the ceiling wasn’t exactly what he had planned for the day before the wedding, but it was totally worth it as they looked magical on the day – thanks,dad!

Ben also built a bar for mulled wine and cider which was pretty cool. Fairyhill is such a beautiful venue that it doesn’t actually need that much decorating!

What was your first dance song?

Our first dance was Top Loader- Dancing in the Moonlight, followed by some of our

friends’ and families’ first dance songs, which they loved.

How did you entertain your guests?

The incredible talented local singer, Jeris and her right hand man, Steve Sax, played during our ceremony and drinks reception. They were amazing and had people up dancing before we had sat down for food. I would highly recommend them both, as well as ‘The Appletree Theory’ who played in the evening and filled the dancefloor.

How did you feel on the day?

I felt on cloud nine all day long. Our wedding day was everything we could have dreamed of, and more!

What’s your recommendation to future couples getting married ?

Definitely have a video.

Don’t worry about the weather as it honestly does not make the slightest bit of difference on the day. I actually love our photos under the umbrella!

Make the most of the planning, as a wedding is SO much more than just one day. From the moment we got engaged, Ben and I have made memories with our friends and families which we will treasure forever.

And try not to worry about the ‘little touches’, as on the day when your venue is filled with everyone you love you really will not notice them.

Directory: • • • • • •

Venue: Fairyhill by Oldwalls Photographer: WeCreate Florist: Eve Francesca Designs Dress designer: Rime Arodaky Dress shop: The Mews, Clifton Groom wear: Dyfed Menswear

• • • •

•

Videographer: WeCreate Hair: Natalie Barnett Hair Makeup: Jessie Dallimore Entertainment: Jeris Music, Steve Sax, The Appletree Theory.

Cake: Biggar Bakes

SWANSEA LIFE 49

HOW BOOKING YOUR WEDDING AT THIS BEAUTIFUL COUNTRYSIDE VENUE WILL HELP A WELSH CHARITY

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Bryngarw House has an important extra role on top of its commitment to happy couples

EDDING couples at a popular venue in south Wales do far more than just take centre stage on their big day as thanks to them they help make other people's lives better.

W

wedding sees them give back to a charity - Awen Cultural Trust.

EXCLUSIVE WEDDING VENUE The wedding-only venue in the heart of Bryngarw Country Park has been under new management since January.

It may be a bold statement, but at Bryngarw House, near Bridgend, they are confident that it stacks up because tying the knot there means making a real difference.

Country house charm and character meets modern elegance to form a winning combination. The importance of the big day is taken very seriously with no half measures.

Couples who choose Bryngarw House can feel as good about themselves as possible as their socially conscious

And you are right in 113 acres of multiaward-winning Welsh countryside to add that little bit extra to proceedings.

BLANK CANVAS FOR COUPLES At Bryngarw House everything is done to ensure that each wedding is truly unique to the couple at the centre of the celebrations.

So, there is a choice of all-inclusive wedding packages to suit all types of weddings and budgets.

The perfect backdrop for all-year-round wedding photographs just adds to it all. The ornamental bridge and pagoda in the oriental-style gardens is just one example.

Only a few minutes’ drive from junction

36 of the M4, the venue is easy to access but feels a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The venue is licensed to hold civil wedding and civil partnership ceremonies, whilst there are 18 boutique bedrooms for guests to stay overnight. The complimentary bridal suite for the couple on the night of their wedding is a perfect way to end a day like no other.

All in all, it has been a good 2019 for the wedding team which has received rave reviews on social media and through testimonials from happy couples.

SOCIALLY CONSCIOUS WEDDINGS ARE IN Richard Hughes, chief executive of Awen Cultural Trust, said: “We are meeting an increasing number of couples who are looking for a wedding venue which aligns with their socially conscious values.

By holding their special day at Bryngarw House they are, in effect, giving something back to a registered charity which touches more than a million lives a year through a range of wellbeing activities and opportunities across Bridgend and beyond.�

HOW OTHERS BENEFIT FROM WEDDINGS AT BRYNGARW HOUSE Every wedding booked there has a positive impact on adults with disabilities and also on the local environment.

The grounds within Bryngarw County Park, including around Bryngarw House, are maintained by the staff and trainees from B-Leaf, a work-based horticultural project for adults with disabilities.

Wedding payments are made to Awen Trading Ltd, which is the wholly-owned trading subsidiary of registered charity Awen Cultural Trust.

Profits from weddings are gift-aided back to the trust, which distributes money to the services it runs, including B-Leaf. That means opportunities for people on the project to pick up new skills and enhance their sense of wellbeing. The positive experiences they enjoy include enhancing the grounds within the park for all to enjoy.

Bryngarw House | Brynmenyn | Bridgend | CF32 8UU www.bryngarwhouse.com | Tel: 01656 729009 | events@bryngarwweddings.com @bryngarwhouse |

@bryngarwweddings

BRIAN BROWN SALON MODELLING & MANAGEMENT AGENCY

01792 301901

1 BELLEVUE WAY • SWANSEA • SA1 5BZ

We offer a range of packages to suit every budget, Exclusive discounts for selected dates and we can cater to all guest numbers Use of our Grade 1 listed historic theatre for your Ceremony Plus get exclusive use of the venue where your guests can stay the night before/after your wedding at 50% discount*

Book our spectacular castle in beautiful surroundings, to make your dream wedding, the most beautiful wedding ever.

Please contact us for more information on our Fantastic Packages Our experienced wedding planners are on hand to talk you through your options

Phone:

01639 731167 weddinginformation@craigynoscastle.com

Brecon Rd, Pen-y-cae, Swansea SA9 1GL

Email: Website:

www.craigynoscastleweddings.com *subject to availability

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Independent Cafe Bar Live music Friday, Saturday & Sunday Great selection of draught beers, ales, fine wines, gins, spirits & cocktails

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Upgrade your KITCHEN basics

Personalise your home by turning a functional buy into something special.. ÍÍKitchenaid Artisan mini stand mixer £249.98; Currys, Parc Morfa

Home

cooking

with Penllergaer’s Sian Day A delicious recipe for March

Caramelised French apple tart

ÐÐGlazed cannister

from a range at Matalan, Cwmdu

ÏÏIllustrated Kate Guy tea towel

£12 Oyster Gallery, Mumbles

On my visit to Paris last year I tried to visit as many French patisseries as I possibly could in the 48 hours I was there. There were too many to count! It was as if there was a patisserie on every street corner from generations old family ones to the more recent, modern, Artisanal ones. I assure you that this classic French recipe is as good as the ones in Paris. The secret is a good pastry, sharp apples and the caramelisation on top of the tart for that gorgeous look; that’s what makes them look so good through the bakery’s front glass windows, beckoning you in to smell the aroma of freshly baked goods and tempting you to buy the delightful tarts for tea.

Ingredients Pastry ■ 250g plain flour ■ 150g Welsh salted butter cold and cut into small cubes ■ 1 egg yolk ■ 1 tsp icing sugar

ÎÎStainless steel pan set

Four pieces, £70; John Lewis, Cardiff

ÍÍJoseph Joseph, 9 Piece multi-coloured food preparation set £30; Debenhams, Swansea

ÏÏGin making set, £6.99; HomeSense, Parc Fforestfach

ÍÍCharlie upholstered bar stool £64.99; Argos, Swansea

For the pie filling ■ 800g Bramley cooking apples, peeled, cored and sliced ■ 2 Granny Smith apples peeled, cored and sliced ■ 100g sugar ■ 2tsp fresh lemon juice ■ Grated zest of half lemon ■ 40g unsalted butter ■ 4tbsp smooth apricot jam method 1. Place the flour and butter into a food processor until it looks like breadcrumbs and then add in the icing sugar, egg yolk and 2tbsp cold water to form a stiff dough. Wrap this with some cling film and place in the freezer for 10 minutes to fast chill. This makes it easier to roll out when the gluten has rested and has become cold.

Prepare the Granny Smith apples and have a bowl of cold water with a little

lemon juice ready to put your apples into once they have been peeled and sliced. ( This will stop them from turning brown).

Cook the Bramley apples in half of the butter with 2tbsp water until tender but not mushy then stir in the sugar and 2tbsp jam and cook for another few minutes.

Next, roll out your pastry. I always roll it out between two large pieces of cling film – this stops it getting sticky.

Then line your flan case with the pastry, prick the base with a fork then bake blind for 10 minutes, remove baking beans and parchment and bake for another five minutes until slightly brown.

Place the cooked apple into the flan case and then arrange the Granny Smiths on top melt the rest of the butter and brush the apples then bake for 25 minutes.

Then finally warm the rest of the jam and brush over the warm apples serve with cream or custard.

FOLLOW SIAN’S DELICIOUS RECIPES on her blog page siandaydream.wordpress.com or Tweet her @SianDay SWANSEA LIFE 55

FOOD & DRINK

I tried the Jane Plan diet ...here’s what happened Swansea Life’s Claire Spreadbury tries out a diet plan delivered to your door. ll I wanted to lose was a few pounds – but between the demands of work and kids and life, I was struggling to find the time to prep healthy meals and the motivation to stay on track.

That’s why I decided to try the Jane Plan, an eating plan where every meal is delivered to your door, removing at least some of the effort and temptation to stray.

A

I followed it for six weeks and this is how it went...  What is the Jane Plan?

After an initial phone consultation with a nutritionist, a calorie-controlled diet is worked out for you, based on how much weight you’d like to lose, your current weight, height, BMI and what you do for a living (ie. if you’re a stay-at-home mum running around after three little ones, you’ll be burning more calories than a 9-5 office worker).

You can head to the website to order all your food, so you only pick out the dishes you think you’ll like, or you can sign up to a 56 SWANSEA LIFE

package. Because my job involves a lot of sitting at a desk, I am only 5ft 2 and I don’t have masses to lose, my eating plan is going to be quite tough, with a fairly low calorie count. For me, this might be OK, and every person on the plan converses with their own nutritionist. But it’s always worth speaking to a doctor before embarking on a diet change.  Day one I quickly realise this is going to be tough.

Breakfast is granola, berries and yogurt, which is what I often eat in the morning, but there’s about half the amount I would ordinarily scoff. I scrape every last bit and still want more, but manage to hold off for a couple of hours until my mid-morning fruit snack.

For lunch, I’ve chosen a couscous salad. I learn the hard way that it’s best to prepare your lunch at home, rather than grabbing one of the ready-made packages and shoving it in your bag.

You’re allowed to add veg to it, which helps fill you up, and seasoning – which you’ll need. It also means you can give it a good stir about and make it look more inviting than the sometimes congealed

A doctor’s verdict

offering that awaits once you peel back the lid.

Once again, it didn’t feel like it was enough, and I end up eating my very delicious oat bar snack come 2pm. But even though that looks a good size, I was hankering after dinner for hours. I later find out that this ‘snack’ is actually a breakfast.

Oops. My bad for not reading the information thoroughly...

I don’t get home from work until late, and often end up eating around 8.30pm, which makes this healthy eating plan really difficult. But I scoff my lasagne with a side of veggies and manage to decline the G&T my other half is enjoying.  What’s the food like?

The dishes are OK. There isn’t a single meal I’ve raved about, but this is healthy food for the masses, so you’re unlikely to be overexcited by them. As a vegetarian, my favourite is a lunch of chilli with beans and rice. It’s small but tasty, and nicely beefed out with broccoli, peas and sweetcorn.  What’s good about it?

The big plus is that everything is done for you. Prepping is needed but it is minimal.

They have also thought of lots of extras.

You can order ‘partner meals’ (which are the same size!), so it’s less antisocial, which I think is a really good idea. Although in practice, my other half refused more often than not. And you can also do ‘weekends off’. This is something that sort of naturally ended up happening to me anyway, but it still absolutely works, which is hugely encouraging.

GP for MedExpress, Dr Clare Morrison, says: “Cutting calories will generally lead to weight loss, at least in the short term, so it’s not surprising that this sort of weight-loss plan can be successful.

Limiting calories through portion control, whilst eating the same food as the rest of the family, will also achieve weight loss.

“In the longer term, good health requires a consistently well balanced diet, with plenty of fibre, vitamins, and the right amount of protein, fat, and unrefined carbohydrate. Refined carbs such as sugar and white flour, should be kept to a minimum. It’s also important to keep active, ideally doing 30 minutes of exercise (such as a brisk walk) every day.

“If you have any doubt about a weight loss plan, do check with your GP first, particularly if you have a chronic health condition, such as diabetes, or a food intolerance.”

managed to lose 3/4 of a pound, which I’m actually very happy with.

My level of cheating and result on the scales was the same in week two and in the weeks after, which just goes to show it is possible to have fun and gradually lose a little bit of weight at the same time.

In total, I lost around 5lb in six weeks, which met my personal goal and I’m really happy with it.  Overall verdict This eating plan isn’t easy. The Jane Plan website says most of its diets average 1,200 calories a day, which can be tough to stick to, though it could be more depending on the person. It isn’t cheap, either. You can choose a one, three or four-month plan, starting at £199 per month (though look out for deals online at janeplan.com). It does include all your food except add-ins,

like milk, fruit and veggies, so your shopping bill will obviously be considerably less.

On the other hand, with my modifications, it worked for me. The option to have the weekend off was a life-saver – and would have made it more of a long term option had I wanted it.

There are weekly check-in phone calls with your consultant, so you can ask questions, query anything you’re not sure about or get some encouragement. For anyone who’s time-poor and needs a helping hand motivation-wise, this could be worth a try.

 Results It’s safe to say I fell at many hurdles during my six weeks on the Jane Plan. The day I did a 35-minute weighted Joe Wicks workout, I felt so light-headed, I had to grab extra snacks. On week one, I snuck chocolates, went gin tasting, had the entire weekend off plan and generally did pretty badly.

However, I still tried to do a decent amount of exercise to balance things out, and SWANSEA LIFE 57

FOOD & DRINK

fake away!

How convincing and satisfying can homemade takeaway food really be?

Want to make your favourite takeaway recipes at home? It seems great minds think alike – Eat Well For Less presenter, Chris Bavin, and The Medicinal Chef, Dale Pinnock, have both released cookbooks that revolve around the idea of making takeaway food at home. So if you’re looking to cut down on ordering in, these tried and tested ‘fakeaway’ options might be worth your while.

HEALTHY BAKED SCAMPI from Chris Bavin Ingredients (Serves 4) Fakeaway: Healthy Home-cooked Takeaway Meals by Chris Bavin, photography by Liz and Max, Haarala Hamilton, is published

by DK (DK.com), priced £14.99.

Available now.

40g plain flour; 1tsp paprika; grated zest and juice of 1 lemon; salt and pepper; 2 eggs, beaten; 120g dried breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs; 20g desiccated coconut; 400g peeled raw king prawns; 1tbsp olive oil; Lemon wedges, to serve For the tartare sauce: 4tbsp mayonnaise; grated zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1tbsp capers, finely chopped; 2 large gherkins, finely chopped; 1tbsp chopped dill; salt and pepper

KUNG PAO CHICKEN from Dale Pinnock Ingredients (Serves 2)

4 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 5cm piece of ginger, peeled and finely chopped; 2 spring onions, chopped; 3 dried red chillies 2 chicken breasts, diced; Olive oil; 1 heaped tbsp runny honey; 2tbsp soy sauce; 1/2tbsp rice wine vinegar; 2tsp ground black pepper; salt; sauteed greens and brown rice, to serve; 50g unsalted peanuts, to garnish

Method: 1. In a pan, saute the garlic, ginger, spring onions and chillies in a little olive oil, with a pinch of salt, over a medium heat for three to five minutes.

2. Add the diced chicken and saute for five to seven minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

58 SWANSEA LIFE

Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan/400°F/Gas 6).

2. Put the flour, paprika and lemon zest in one bowl, the beaten eggs in another bowl and mix the breadcrumbs and coconut in a third bowl.

3. Individually dip the prawns first into the flour, then the egg and breadcrumbs to coat. Then place on the lined baking tray.

4. When you have coated all the prawns, drizzle over the oil and bake in the oven for 10 minutes until cooked and crispy.

5. Serve with homemade Tartar Sauce (just mix all the ingredients together) and lemon wedges.

3. Add the honey, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar and black pepper. Simmer for four minutes.

4. Sprinkle the peanuts over as a garnish.

5. Serve with sauteed greens and brown rice.

Fakeaways by Dale Pinnock, photography

by Faith Mason, is published by Hamlyn, priced £15.99.

Available now.

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MUMBLES, SWANSEA

Asking Price £795,000

A beautifully presented, Edwardian family home situated in the popular village of Mumbles. This gorgeous home oozes character with original features peppered throughout. The design and layout of this property has been carefully thought out, offering stylish and generous accommodation.

It also enjoys close walking proximity to the sea front promenade of mumbles and fantastic views of Swansea Bay.

20A JOINERS ROAD, THREE CROSSES, SWANSEA

1 SALT COTTAGES, PORT EYNON, GOWER, SWANSEA

A modern detached family home situated within the traditional village of Three Crosses. This hidden gem over looks rolling hills, Loughor Estuary and the village green. The detached home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms and private garden. EPC B

BEACH FRONT - NO CHAIN. An exceptional seaside home & simply breath-taking location right on the skirt of Port Eynon beach. You are a stone's throw from the spectacular beach front whilst being cwtched up in your lounge. Recently renovated you briefly have, a lounge/diner with wood burner, fitted kitchen, utility room, large double bedroom with modern en-suite shower room. Lovely garden with sea views. EPC F

Contact: 01792 367301

Contact: 01792 367301

Offers Over £550,000

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

Offers Over £300,000

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

SOUTHRIDGE, REYNOLDSTON, GOWER, SWANSEA

Asking Price £595,000

This much-loved family home is beautifully located in the fabulous community focused village of Reynoldston. This tranquil position offers exquisite far-reaching countryside views, large garden, tranquility and easy access to village amenities, Gower walks, beaches and bus routes. The home briefly comprises generous accommodation of 4 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, large fitted kitchen, utility room, family bathroom & attic room. EPC F

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

52 BEAUFORT AVENUE, LANGLAND, SWANSEA

HILLCOTE, BISHOPSTON, SWANSEA

A truly stunning home set on a quiet street in the waterside location of the highly desirable Langland. This beautiful, modern, extended and extremely well finished family home offers 5 bedrooms, 3 receptions & 2 bathrooms.

EPC D

Hidden on the edge of Bishopston stands this hidden gem, Hillcote. This delightful detached family home is nestled away & has idyllic views over gorgeous Bishopston Valley. Offering 5 beds, 4 receptions, 2 bathrooms 7 private grounds. EPC F

Contact: 01792 367301

Contact: 01792 367301

Offers Over £900,000

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

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AVAILABLE NOW! ONLY 2 HOMES LEFT AT THE PRESTIGIOUS DEVELOPMENT Enquire now to arrange your visit to the beautifully finished show home The Rioja, a modern, spacious home spread over four floors at Prince’s Wharf, offers coastal living with great access to Swansea City Centre. A stone’s throw away from Swansea beach, the popular SA1 Marina and bustling town centre. The home comprises of four double bedrooms, two en-suites, shower room and family bathroom, open plan kitchen/dining space and lounge as well as a sun lounge on the top floor leading to a private roof top terrace.

KEY FEATURES • Integral Garage and Parking • Prestigious SA1 location with waterfront views

• New build home with 10 year warranty • Set over 1,926ft2

• Private roof terrace

Contact Peter Alan Estate Agents to register your interest at 49 Mansel Street, Swansea, SA1 5SW Swansea@peteralan.co.uk | 01792 641 481

Plot 5 - The Rioja, ready to move in with flooring included at £385,000 Plot 15 - The Rioja available to reserve now at £385,000

Show Home open Thursday Monday from 10:30am to 5pm.

Call 01792 641 481 to book your appointment today!

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There are just three Afan homes remaining at Eglwys Nunydd. As an exclusive development of just 10 homes, you will share a small neighbourhood with like-minded people, in a quiet and connected location. Sitting within a generous plot, the Afan is a spacious, modern detached home. Offering luxury living in Margam.

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Eglwys Nunydd, Margam, Port Talbot SA13 2PS Call 0333 320 8161 llanmoor-homes.co.uk Prices from £609,995

Details correct at time of going to press.

All images are illustrative only.

INTRODUCING

WINNER FOR SWANSEA

Belvoir Swansea have just won the British Property Award for Swansea for the second year running.

Their team performed outstandingly throughout the extensive judging period, which focused on customer service levels.

Belvoir Swansea have now been shortlisted for a number of national awards which will be announced early next year.

The British Property Awards provide agents throughout the UK with an invaluable opportunity to compare the service that they provide against the service provided by their local, regional and national competition.

Agents who go that extra mile and provide outstanding levels of customer service are rewarded with our accolade, which acts as a beacon to highlight these attributes to their local marketplace.

Belvoir Swansea 29 Castle Street, Swansea, SA1 1HY 01792 461929 www.belvoir.co.uk/offices/swansea

THE BRITISH PROPERTY AWARDS are one of the most inclusive estate agency awards providers as they do not charge to enter. This has enabled their award to be structured in a manner that ensures maximum participation, on average judging over 90% of agents that meet their minimum criteria on a local level.

The team personally mystery shops every estate agent against a set of 25 criteria to obtain a balanced overview of their customer service levels. The judging criteria is both comprehensive and detailed exploring different mediums, scenarios and time periods to ensure that agents have been rigorously and fairly judged.

Robert McLean from The British Property Awards said "Our awards has been specifically designed to be attainable to all agents, removing common barriers to entry, such as cost, to ensure that we have the most inclusive awards. Our award has also been designed to remove any opportunity for bias or manipulation. If an agent has been attributed with one of our awards, it is simply down to the fantastic customer service levels that they have demonstrated across a prolonged period of time. Winning agents should be proud that their customer service levels provide a benchmark for their local, regional and national competition."

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HOUSE & HOME

Location. location, location Looking after a calming coastal home that’s a permanent reminder of sunny days by the sea? Peter Slee has been to check one out in Gower

Y

ou don’t have to live by the sea to enjoy the calming qualities of a coastal living room. But it is always a very good place to start!

Just take a look around this stunner at Port Eynon in Gower blessed with an ocean view and where the greatest accessories are sun, sea and sand.

This exceptional seaside home is in a breathtaking location and just a stone’s throw from the spectacular beach front .

Agent Beth Evans at Fine & Country in Mumbles says the approach to the waterside home is amazing.

“After meandering through the village of Port Eynon you are welcomed by a coastal road, where you can park” She says. Then walk through a five-bar wooden gate into the neighbouring field, continue through this field and along the elevated paved veranda to arrive at the front door.

66 SWANSEA LIFE

“Or, simply journey in your 4x4 vehicle down the concrete ramp, down onto the beach and ride along the sand/low rocks to arrive directly at the Salt Cottage steps.

“From here are some endlessly changing sea views, Gower countryside and the gorgeous North Devon coastline.

“It is a truly superb place to spend long hours with family and friends gazing out on the far-reaching views and enjoying the dream of living by the sea.”

Walk through its front door and you find an understated, contemporary coastal home where key design features have been carefully layered.

Soft furnishings and coastal-inspired wooden furniture are a nod to coastal living.

Seascape artwork and driftwood accessories stamp a further seaside vibe onto the decor without making it ‘too’ themed.

SWANSEA LIFE 67

HOUSE & HOME

“The lounge is the perfect space for relaxing and watching the seashore through the window at the front of the home where light floods in,” adds Beth Evans.

“The views from this room are simply exceptional! This welcoming room is laid with slate tiles which flow from room to room and houses a fantastic log burner which has a beautiful stone surround and stone feature wall which adds a lot of character.”

The kitchen looks out over an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which might help ease the strain of the messy kitchen chores. Furnished with a range of wall and base units, Cookmaster cooker, five-ring electric hob and elevated extractor fan, it is linked to a utility room packed with storage, integrated washing machine and a door out to the rear of the home.

Sitting cosily in the corner of the lounge is the stunning rustic oak staircase which will guide you to the first floor of this fabulous home and its spacious double bedroom which has light beaming in through the two windows which look out over those breathtaking and far reaching views of ever-changing seascapes and Gower countryside. Up a couple of steps and you are through a latched door into the bathroom. “ From the moment you step outside you instantly appreciate how magical and peaceful this wonderful location really is,” says Beth.

“With its panoramic views you can picture yourself spending those long summer months enjoying this fabulous home with 68 SWANSEA LIFE

friends and family. Up some charming sleeper steps to a mix of level lawn and patio area which is a perfect space for garden furniture and alfresco dining.

“It is quite simply, beautiful.

“Within a matter of minutes, you can wander into Port Eynon itself and enjoy fish and chips, ice cream or visit the local shop, pubs and restaurants. This home really is the perfect place to escape from reality and appreciate this seaside home.

“The current owners have loved and cherished this home for more than 30 years and have made some outstanding memories. Now it sits in readiness for new ones.”

ÍÍLoft spun metal shade, £15; Argos, Swansea

ÏÏBrighton accent chair, £449.99; Oak FurnitureLand, Swansea

The details: Offers over £300,000 Agents: Fine & Country, Mumbles Call: 01792 367730 www.fineandcountry

9

ÍÍSeascape glass lantern £7.50; Marks & Spencer, Swansea

ÏÏBlack swan neck light, £65; Cox&Cox

ways to get the nautical look in your living room and keep the holiday spirit alive

Summer days in your home all year round? Yes please!

Let the colours of the ocean wash over your home with cool blues and calming whites.

Here’s how to get nice and nautical in your living room for a cosy yet fresh scheme all year round ÍÍMonochrome paper basket, £15; Dunelm, Swansea

ÏÏPussy Willow paste-thewall wallpaper, £28; Laura Ashley, Swansea

ÏÏDiamond navy blanket, £45; Edit Home+Design, Mumbles

ÏÏFarrow & Ball lamp room grey paint, £47.95; B&Q, Parc Morfa

ÎÎMagnolia crackled grey vase, £5.99; HomeSense, Parc Fforestfach

SWANSEA LIFE 69

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

HOUSE & HOME

RURAL GRANDEUR

A splendid 19th century Welsh longhouse in the picturesque and panoramic Carmarthen countryside is on the market for £495,000. Peter Slee has been along to take a look.....

74 SWANSEA LIFE

C

wmoernant is an elegant and most impressive period home that has been beautifully renovated by the current owners, eminent antique dealers Robert and Carol Pugh. The couple purchased the property in 1997 (when it came to the market for the first time in over 40 years) and began a remarkable transformation. The house now reflects their impeccable taste and attention to detail throughout.

“It sounds like a cliché, but from the moment we first saw Cwmoernant we fell in

love with the property,” says Robert Pugh.

“The period features were wonderful and the views to die for, and whilst we knew we were taking on quite a project we also knew all the hard work would be worth it.”

“It is a truly superb place to spend long hours with family and friends gazing out on the far-reaching views and enjoying the dream of living by the sea.”

Walk through its front door and you find an understated, contemporary coastal home where key design features have been carefully layered.

Soft furnishings and coastal-inspired wooden furniture are a nod to coastal living.

Seascape artwork and driftwood accessories stamp a further seaside vibe onto the decor without making it ‘too’ themed. For over 20 years the property has been not only Robert and Carol’s home, but it has also housed the couple’s collections of antiques, art and Welsh Pottery. Robert is in fact a well-known authority on Welsh Pottery and has published two books on the subject. The ‘Longhouse Style’ property suited them down to the ground and allowed them to display their many collections.

Carol says: “Robert, as I suppose am I, is a prolific collector. When we decided to settle in Carmarthenshire, Robert being originally from the area, I knew it wouldn’t be easy to find the right property. We had long wish list and couldn’t believe our luck when we found Cwmoernant. It’s an extremely peaceful spot as it’s at the end of a no-through road, the views are incredible and yet it’s so very convenient to the town centre. The house itself had all the period details we were looking for and now also has a wonderful sense of space too.”

The original house at Cwmoernant was built around 1800 and was once a nursery. It has now been extended to provide spacious accommodation with four reception rooms and four large bedrooms. The extension was designed by family friend and highly regarded architect and interior designer Ian Douglas-Jones, now working in Auckland and Shanghai.

Cwmoernant’s timeless, neutral décor adds to the property’s light and spacious feel. The canopied front door opens to a large reception area and breakfast room from which you reach the kitchen, recently fitted with a new shaker style units. A range cooker and ‘Ruabon Terracotta’ flooring, along with views across the Towy Valley help make this room the heart of the home.

Also leading off from the main reception area is the family room. A feature fireplace fitted with a multi-fuel stove makes this the perfect room for a cosy evening in front of the TV. Cwmoernant’s impressive dining hall has a part vaulted ceiling and is the perfect entertaining space. Doors then lead to an elegant double aspect sitting room with a working feature fireplace. This room also has wonderful views of the Towy Valley and surrounding countryside. Decorative coving and ‘heritage’ radiators complete the room.

The stairs from the reception area lead to the first floor with its galleried landing and 4 double bedrooms. The wealth of character continues on the first floor, not only in the large bedrooms but upon the galleried landing. French doors lead out from here to decked terrace, the perfect spot for morning coffee or simply to enjoy the countryside views.

The family bathroom with its 3-piece white suite, and over-bath shower, is luxuriously finished with ceramic tiles and a chrome towel warmer. An en-suite wet room leads off from the master bedroom.

With travertine marble tiled walls and flooring, gain a sumptuous space.

SWANSEA LIFE 75

HOUSE & HOME

THE DETAILS: William Spurrell’s ‘Guide to Carmarthen and its Neighbourhood’ published in 1882 talks of Cwmoernant in glowing terms: “Leaving the town [Carmarthen] through Priory Street, the first turning to the left leads to the reservoirs. The way thence lies through a field to the left, towards a few cottages, with a plantation and a nursery [Cwmoernant] on the hill side. These secluded dwellings enjoy a prospect which would enhance the value of many a lordly mansion. Through an opening between the hills, the eye catches an unexpected glimpse

76 SWANSEA LIFE

Cwmoernant is on the market for £495,000. www.geraldvaughan.co.uk

Tel: 01267 220424

of the Towy vale with Nelson’s Monument, Dryslwyn Castle, and other objects of interest. Carreg Cennen Castle may often be seen when the sun shines on it and the clouds cast a dark shadow on the mountains behind.”

Cwmoerant’s elevated position and the

panoramic countryside views spoken of in 1882 remain one of the property’s most desirable features. The grounds extend to about 11 acres and include landscaped gardens, woodland and six acres of pastureland which has a stock-proof fence. A range of useful outbuildings including a former coach house (which could be renovated subject the necessary planning consent), a detached double garage and a store shed with an adjoining fuel store complete a wonderful package all less than a mile from Carmarthen.

Quality Kitchens & Bathrooms

Book your free kitchen design consultation at leekes.co.uk/kitchens or call 0800 038 3050

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

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We are absolutely thrilled with the finished result and spend so much time in the room. We now have a dream family kitchen.

Mrs Mason, Carmarthen

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rating on

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Complete the look...

Customise your kitchen with all the finishing touches from leading brands. Choose from a wide selection of plain and patterned tiles and enhance your countertop with the latest appliances and tableware to complete your look.

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FOR OVER

120 YEARS EST. 1897

â€

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

Tel: 0800 038 3050 | Online: leekes.co.uk/kitchens

Terms and conditions apply. Ask in store for details. ‥Checked on 17th February 2020.

Dream Bathrooms from Leekes

Storage

Create a relaxing retreat or a functional family bathroom with the help of our experienced bathroom designers. There’s plenty of choice from leading brands in both traditional and contemporary designs.

Complete the look...

From tiles to towels and showers to storage, we offer all the finishing touches.

Taps

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Why choose Leekes, the home experts?

Helpful advice from our experienced in store designers Free 3D professional design service using the latest software

Share pictures of your bathroom with #loveleekes We are thrilled with our new bathroom, it now looks like a room in a smart 5 star hotel.

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Book your free bathroom design consultation at leekes.co.uk/bathrooms or call 0800 038 3050

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/bathrooms

Terms and conditions apply. Ask in store for details. ‡Checked on 17th February 2020.

SPONSORED FEATURE

1 L E S L E Y

TAY LO R

Sustainable style INTERIOR DESIGNER LESLEY TAYLOR SHOWS HOW A FEW SIMPLE CHANGES WILL REAP HUGE REWARDS

2

1. Inject swagger into your kitchen with some new cupboard doors in a gorgeous hue 2. If your kitchen tiles have seen better days, a new splashback will inject vibrancy – these are from The Baked Tile Company 3. Invest in neutrals which will transcend seasons

4 3 4. Fancy having a go at upcycling?

Consider using an old set of drawers and get experimenting

82 SWANSEA LIFE

Sustainability is fast impacting every aspect of our lives; from influencing which groceries we buy to determining where we holiday.

It’s also playing a huge part in home renovations too, as more homeowners look to ‘make do and mend’.

It’s a trend that is going nowhere, and as a result, YouTube and Pinterest are packed with ideas for those homeowners looking to spruce up their existing furnishings.

If you’re looking to give parts of your home an update, without getting rid of perfectly good fixtures, here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

Quite often, the kitchen is the heart of the home so it’s important to have the one of your dreams.

However, you can give your kitchen a new look with a few simple, cosmetic changes.

Take the cupboards for example. They are a hugely important to both the function and aesthetic of the kitchen. If you’re happy with their layout and how they work, as well as their general condition, why not hang new doors? This instant update will transform the overall look of the entire room.

If your kitchen walls are tiled, consider removing a small section of old tiles behind the cooker and the sink to create a unique splashback. Tiles are available in all shapes, sizes and colours, some plain and others with the most beautiful patterns imaginable, which means there are plenty of options to create a bespoke wall covering.

In other areas of the home, you may think an entire room needs revamping, when in fact, just one significant update will change how the whole room looks and feels.

If your bathroom floor, for example, has seen better days, investing in new flooring will transform the entire space. The key is to choose something neutral and timeless, that will work with all the trends that come and go to ensure longevity.

Got an old chest of drawers that has seen better days? Upcycling is a great way to get a few more years out of it.

YouTube and Pinterest have some fabulous hints and tips on getting started. But in short, anything goes.

One of the simplest makeovers is a quick and easy paint job. Simply sand down the surface, grab some furniture paint and away you go. To complete the look, invest in some new handles or knobs which can be changed quickly and without much fuss.

A bolder look involves samples of your favourite wallpaper.

Simply measure your drawers and create a template on the back of your wallpaper sample. Cut the paper to size and cover the front of the drawer with wallpaper paste.

Then carefully attach the wallpaper, ensuring it aligns with the edges perfectly. Finish by applying a generous coat of sealer to protect the wallpaper from dirt, wear and tear.

If you’ve never upcycled before, make sure you experiment on an inexpensive item of furniture, such as a picture frame or old side table.

Lesley Taylor is a full member of the British Institute of Interior Design. She is the author of 10 books on Interior design and has been a regular contributor on many network interior design programmes. She is lead designer at EDIT Home and Design in Mumbles.

O n d i spl ay at LBS HOME & GARDEN LLANDEILO SA19 6LW Tel: 01558 823900

www.middleton.wales

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Here’s what one of our customers say:

We just had a new designer Loggia conservatory from Securahome.The design consultant was excellent and provided us with drawings and a written quotation. The weather was not the best but they dealt with it excellently.

The finish is great and it has totally transformed our house.

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Call us today 0800 808 3224 Visit our website securahome.co.uk improving homes since 1994

Showroom open 7 days at Kestrel Way, Garngoch Ind Est, Gorseinon, Swansea, SA4 9WN

Windows

Modern and heritage styles with the latest thermodynamic technologies.

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Sturdy and secure, offering total protection for your home.

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In UPVC, Timber or Aluminium, find the perfect living space to compliment your home.

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Proudly manufacturing Award Winning Kitchens in Wales since 1975.

Visit sigma3.co.uk to find out about our latest offers, order a copy of our brochure or book an appointment to meet a designer.

SIGMA 3 SWANSEA 2 Mannesman Close, Llansamlet Enterprise Park, Swansea, SA7 9AH Call us: 01792 790088 | Email us: swansea@sigma3.co.uk

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Visit our Large Swansea Showroom to see our great selection of furniture ranges

Gorseinon Road, Swansea SA4 9GG Tel: 01792 893121 | www.homestoreinteriors.co.uk

HOUSE & HOME

Spring heralds

With Joseph Atkin, head gardener at Aberglasney Gardens in Carmarthenshire

There are certain things that most gardeners wish for. One is an early spring and the other, mild weather. This combination means the garden comes to life that little bit earlier and as ever lifts our spirits. So growing plants that flower in March is always a good idea. At Aberglasney we have found a wonderful selection of trees, shrubs and bulbs that we fondly call spring heralds. Surprisingly, we often find the March spring display to be even better than the late spring display. Here are a few showstoppers for an early spring garden

Magnolia ‘Mark Jury’

Narcissus ‘Jetfire’

Magnolia are one of the most spectacular spring flowering trees or shrubs, surprisingly some of the most spectacular are the March flowering types. ‘Mark Jury’ is certainly that, with huge shell pink flowers covering its large stems it is one of the most impressive sights in the garden at any time. Granted the flowers only last a fortnight at most but for that period it is absolutely spell binding.

Although a luxury plant it is easy to grow when planted out of the wind, making it ideal for large sheltered gardens. Like many rare or special plants, it also requires little or no care once established.

Over the years we have really started to specialise in early flowering Narcissus as they are excellent for getting spring started early.

‘Rapture’ is part of the Cyclamineus group which are all early flowering dainty types that are generally shorter and have petals the curve backwards. They are great for smaller spaces and die down quickly after flowering reducing the problem of unsightly leaves. We combine them with hellebores to make a real impact at the front of borders or drift them under trees or in long grass areas. There is no reason why they could not be used for a bulb meadow as they are tough.

n Height = 10m maximum n Spread = 6m n Position/Aspect = Any sheltered spot that receives some light n Soil = Neutral to acid n Pest and diseases = No real problems n Style = Woodland, specimen, lawn tree, back of border or garden centre piece

n Height = 30cm maximum n Spread = depends on the number of bulbs planted n Position/Aspect = Needs some sun n Soil = Any except waterlogged n Pest and diseases = No real problem n Style = Meadow, potted display, mixed border, spring garden, cottage garden even a spring bedding scheme

Camellia japonica ‘Ohkan’ All Camellia have their good points especially the japonica types which generally flower early spring before many other spring flowering shrubs. A general bonus of all Camellia is the thick glossy evergreen foliage that makes a wonderful foil for plants or a screen or even a hedge. The flowers are very striking with this cultivar being very impressive. ‘Ohkan’ has a striking yellow centre with pink and white bicolour petals surrounding it. For the purist it is probably a bit busy but its certainly one to impress the neighbours. n Height = 2m maximum n Spread = 1m maximum n Position/Aspect = Any out of strong winds n Soil = Acid to neutral n Pest and diseases = No real problems n Style = Shrub border, woodland garden, hedge, screen, Asiatic garden, mixed border 88 SWANSEA LIFE

Your local online tile specialist!

ADD CHARACTER TO YOUR HOME Don’t forget we offer local residents 20% off our wonderful tile ranges

www.bakedtiles.co.uk Call us on 01792 439239 512B Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea, SA3 4BU Technical and design advice just part of the wonderful service.

Showroom service with on-line prices…call in to see us, we would love to help!

• Bespoke furniture and furnishings • Spatial planning • Bathroom design

• Home furnishings • Retail showroom • SS20 collections now available

EDIT your home to perfection Beautiful home furnishings and full interior design services for all areas of the home.

Call in to our Swansea showroom to view our full collection and for free, in store consultations.

512B Mumbles Rd, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BU | 01792 439119 | www.edithomeanddesign.co.uk

orial

ADVICE + INSPIRATION FOR YOUR HOME

Why use an interior designer?

Quite often our customers don’t come to our showroom looking to engage an interior designer, sometimes they are looking for a new sofa or some tiles and end up being helped to create their perfect room by the designers who are part of the EDIT team.

This particular client did just that, they were extending their home to create a large open plan living room and dining area, and initially were looking for tiles. But anyone interested in design or embarking on a renovation or design project at home knows, to get it right, you really need to know what look and feel you want to achieve at the end of the project that will drive your product selection.

We can help you determine the best models of furniture for your room.

• Bespoke furniture and furnishings • Spatial planning • Bathroom design

When our customer asked about tiles, we immediately set about asking some prudent design questions. This led to one of the design team creating a few inspiration boards so our client could identify the look he liked the most.

So, design concept decided, we could then draw together the products needed to create an inspired yet relaxing finished room. Understanding what shaped sofa and dining table would work best within the space was determined by the creation of floor plans, showing the customer all his options. It was then a matter of showing our customer some furniture options, looking at costings, processing an order and getting the products into production.

• Home furnishings • Retail showroom • SS20 collections now available

Our client has a real eye for detail so accessorising his room was easy, he selected a few items on his travels and came into EDIT and selected some statement items of lighting, mirrors and accessories with the guiding hand of one of the designers.

We were delighted to see the finished project and most importantly another very happy customer.

The moral of this story is, to create a beautiful home, don’t select items in isolation, choose your flooring, furniture etc with the finished look in mind. Make sure they all work in unison and don’t be frightened to engage the help of one of our friendly designers……we will help you get the very best out of your home and budget!

EDIT home and design is a beautiful showroom based in Mumbles, where you are free to relax and browse the ranges of furniture, lighting, soft furnishings, wallpaper and homewares.

You can simply buy a perfumed candle to enhance the atmosphere of a room or have a chat with one of our qualified designers, to see how we can help you make the most of your home.

www.edithomeanddesign.co.uk

Beautiful home furnishings and full interior design services for all areas of the home.

Call in to our Swansea showroom to view our full collection and for free, in store consultations.

512B Mumbles Rd, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BU | 01792 439119 | www.edithomeanddesign.co.uk

HOUSE & HOME

HOME WORKING

Looking for simple ways to upgrade your home office or desk? Well, you don’t need endless space and budgets to snap up stylish and clever remote-working solutions, says Sam Wylie-Harris

Whether you’re a solo freelancer, selfemployed or striking a balance between the office and home, chances are you’re in the market for a stylish space for you and your screen.

Especially if you need to be just as productive while working remotely, as when making your mark in the boardroom or team meetings.

Even those who don’t technically ‘work from home’ might want to think about having a bit of a work station or desk set-up, for all that life-admin, homework and other projects that crop up.

Whatever task you’re tackling, these home office supplies will get the job done...

ÏÏPersonalised Cubist desk display, engraved with message, £19.99 (was £39.99) Getting Personal If you spend half your working life hot-desking, more the reason to make it one’s own on home ground.

Argos Home Nomad two-drawer desk - oak effect, £180 (chair and desk accessories from a selection), Argos Cool and contemporary, this desk will sit well whatever you’re tasked with

ÍÍVelvet shell back bean chair, £95, Next Being studious doesn’t have to equal seriousness, and what could be nicer than sinking into this plush bean bag to catch up on email and Insta action?

ÎÎPortia The Diamante Panther bookend, £16, Next We’ve gone wild for this panther-head bookend, which will glam up a dreary desk and is sure to bring a new lease of life to even the most mundane project.

94 SWANSEA LIFE

ÏÏASUS C423NA-BV0078 Intel Celeron, 4GB RAM, 32G eMMC 14 inch Chromebook - silver, £249.99, Very Sleek by looks and sleek by design, with up to 10 hours’ battery life, this web-only device will make your dayto-day surfing and streaming routine that much quicker.

Striking metallic emulsion, from £19 for 1.25L, Crown Paints Feature walls are right on trend, and a splash of shiny emulsion is a stroke of genius if you want to complement metallic desk decos.

Adam And Eve Lamps, from £85-£132 each, Smithers of Stamford Can’t choose between the two? These vintage-feel lights work great as a pair.

ÏÏBelsize scoop back diner-style chair - wool fabric, beige, £109 (other items from a selection), Cult Furniture

Magazine holders - dark ebony, smoked oak and warm walnut, £80 each, iwoodesign

Amtico Spacia wood flooring, Amtico; other items, stylist’s own

These sturdy, made-to-last wooden box files can hold glossy mags, newspaper cuttings and work sheets - or anything you need to store and grab in a hurry.

If you’re torn between working at the dining room table or a desk depending on your mood, this diner style chair offers a happy medium.

ÍÍArgos Home Copenhagen one-drawer standing desk - two tone, £150, Argos Small and tidy, this nifty standalone desk will fit into the tightest corner - and has the potential to be used as a dressing table to hold all your beauty booty if you change course.

ÍÍFulton ladder desk, £129, Dunelm A simple solution, especially if you’re freelancing and don’t want to commit to a designated home office (or don’t really have space for one). These three tiers can also hold books, baskets, kitchen kit and house plants.

ÎÎPaperchase Order and Purpose range, selection of journals, work books and desktop accessories, from £3 each, Paperchase Filing can be fun! Especially when you mix-and-match pretty pastels with soothing caramel and toffee tones.

SWANSEA LIFE 95

Quality made truly affordable

Electric, gas & wood burning fires Stone, wood & marble fireplaces

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

T

HE FLOORING STUDIO have been an established recommended Amtico Retailer / Installer for over 30 years, servicing Swansea to the tip of West Wales.

In store we have the full range of Amtico Signature & Spacia on display.

Our reputation is second to none built on quality products, customer service and excellent workmanship.

We also supply full range of Carpets, Natural Flooring. Wood Flooring, Laminate and Cushion Vinyl, whatever type of floor you are looking for THE FLOORING STUDIO is the one stop flooring specialist.

Q: What is Amtico?

A: Amtico is the UK’s original luxury design floor company. It is unrivalled in its design capability and offers our customers the opportunity to create a totally unique floor. With over 4000 design options we can create the ultimate experience in bespoke designs which will compliment any room type.

Q: When you say Amtico bespoke floors what exactly do you mean?

A: We look at the decor and furniture etc to create a floor with unique and creative designs and colours which will compliment the room.

Q: How does it perform?

A: You can have the real look of wooden floors without the maintenance required of sanding, sealing polishing etc. The Amtico range of tiles look as good as ceramic, however, they are warmer and softer to the touch with special design strips in between the tiles. These strips allow the grout lines to be added however will not discolour and stain like most grouting in between normal floor tiles.

Q: Does Amtico require specialist installation?

A: Yes, we ensure that our fully trained installers carry out a preparation process prior to laying the floor, this ensures that our customers receive the floor and finish they desire.

Q: What about maintenance?

A: Amtico is a very low maintenance product and is also very tough and durable. Amtico Signature has a lifetime warranty and Amtico Spacia has a 25 year warranty (visit www. amtico.com for full warranty terms and conditions).

Q: Is Amtico expensive?

A: Absolutely not, when compared to most woods and stones it is of a comparable price however as previously mentioned more unique.

Q: Where is Amtico manufactured?

A: Most competitor design floors are sourced from the Far East or Europe however we are proud to say that Amtico is made in England.

Our customers want UK products not just to support the economy but also the fact that they believe they are manufactured to a good standard.

Q: What are the steps to creating an Amtico design floor?

A: Easy, simply call into one of our stores. We can discuss customer requirements and ideas that they may have and we will help them create this within a luxury design floor. They will be able to view many of the Amtico products in store and take samples as required. We then can arrange a free no obligation home visit and the necessary checks required by Amtico to ensure we create the perfect floor.

A company built on its reputation & personal service • Wood Flooring • Vinyl Flooring • Carpeting • Safety Flooring • Full Floor Preparation • Domestic & Commercial Contracts • Free Measuring & Estimates Technical & professional advice on the best flooring for your home or business SWANSEA’S ONLY NICF MASTER FITTER

Recommended installers of Amtico Flooring

T: 01792 896523 Email: theflooringstudioltd@btconnect.com Visit our website: www.theflooringstudio.biz Our showroom: 72 High Street, Gorseinon, Swansea SA4 4BP

HOUSE & HOME

Angel and Dick Strawbridge outside their home, the Chateau-de-laMotte-Husson, France

&

Fun Creativity at the chateau

As she launches her Sainsbury’s Home range, Gabrielle Fagan talks to Escape To The Chateau’s Angel Strawbridge about style, dreams and finding joy

M

A living room at Angel and Dick Strawbridge’s home, the Chateau-de- la-Motte-Husson, France

100 SWANSEA LIFE

eeting Angel Strawbridge – unmistakable with her bright red hair and trademark mega-watt smile – is like encountering a whirlwind of energy and enthusiasm.

She and her husband, Dick, have found fame as the eccentric and totally irresistible couple on Channel 4’s popular series, Escape To The Chateau.

Viewers have been enthralled by their challenging journey renovating and transforming the dilapidated 19th-century Chateau-de- la-Motte-Husson in France into a stunning family home and wedding venue, where they live with their children, Arthur, six, and Dorothy, five.

Their love for each other is as much a part of the show’s success as their love for the chateau. Dick, as cheery as he appears on screen, keeps a vigilant eye out for Angel’s pet dread – spiders – whenever they crop up.

“That’s so lovely but the only trouble is he often mistakes my false eye lashes for spiders and throws them away too,” says Angel, 41, giggling affectionately.

“But ours truly is a big, fat love story. It was love at first sight when Dick and I met. My heart literally was fluttering and pounding

when I saw him. After our first date, we both knew we didn’t ever want to leave each other.

“Then we moved to France and I had another love-at-first-sight moment, when I saw a picture of the chateau online. I really trust my instinct and would have bought it without visiting, but Dick sensibly insisted we check it out first!”

That life-changing moment came in 2015, just after they’d traded in their two-bedroom flat in Essex to move to France – and has undoubtedly paid dividends. They paid just £280,000 for the 45-room property and endless grounds, but it’s now a hugely successful enterprise.

Angel’s launched her own home accessories and fragrance range, The Chateau

by Angel Strawbridge, for Sainsbury’s Home.

The pair seem perfectly matched in skills as well as outlook. A former Lieutenant Colonel in the British Army, engineer and chef Dick has a wealth of TV experience – appearing on Scrapheap Challenge, It’s Not Easy Being Green, and Celebrity MasterChef.

Angel is an entrepreneur, designer, author of The Vintage Tea Party book series, and a successful Dragons’ Den contestant.

What does the chateau mean to you?

“We’ve given this our all but it’s been a real bonding experience too. It’s definitely our forever home. The work transforming it has felt relentless at times but so enjoyable.

“We’re both so proud of it – when we first moved here in the middle of winter there was no running water, heating or electricity, bats in the bedrooms and the only sanitation was the moat surrounding the property. You had to love the place, otherwise you’d have given up.

“For me, it’s a brilliant combination – a truly beautiful home, where we can raise our kids and run our weddings business. I’m a total wedding junkie and would carry on doing them even if I ever became a millionaire.”

How would you describe your style?

“Eclectic, whimsical and always vintage, because that’s the underpinning of everything I do. I’ve been a fan from five-years old and spent my pocket money collecting 50’s trinkets and tea sets from car-boot sales and second-hand shops, then moved onto clothes as a teenager.

“My mega collection of tea sets and British and royalist memorabilia is brilliant for curated displays. I can never resist a little bit of fantasy, like one wall decorated with 3D butterflies, and the kids’ playroom with its vintage helter-skelter.”

Where do you get your inspiration?

“I have a very open mind, partly because I’m dyslexic – I didn’t learn to read until I was 11.

In a way, it was brilliant because I never had my brain swamped by academics, which allowed my creative side to flourish. I was always good at business though, I’m a qualified accountant, and the two skills are a great blend.

“Often, something inspires me when Dick and I go ‘thrifting’ – one of our favourites outings – when we browse French second-

hand markets and antique shops for everything from linens, china and glasses through to taxidermy.

What’s your colour palette?

“When I was living in London, it was very much red, white and blue and a little bit of Victorian darkness. But now the house reflects a brighter kind of French Provincial style, with loads of ochre, dusty pink, lavender, and greens.

“I’ve used the same soft colour palette for my new Escape To The Chateau fragrance range for Sainsbury’s, and the scents are inspired by the plants and flowers that surround the house.”

How do you feel about this time in your life?

Angel Strawbridge in her work room at Chateaude- la-Motte-Husson

“I’m the happiest I’ve ever been. There’s never enough hours in the day – I often get up at 2am so I can get a head-start on work before the kids rampage into our room. This year, we both want to focus on a bit of ‘me’ time – the nearest I get is half an hour soaking in a bath!

“But it’s wonderful being together as a family – my parents live in a converted outhouse next door and are a great support.

Although people may recognise us from the TV when we go back to London, in France we’re just ‘the people who do weddings and live in the chateau’.

“It’s wonderful watching the kids grow up here and they’re involved with everything we do, helping with the cooking and chores.”

What’s your ambition for the future?

“We are literally in this whirlwind of amazing-ness and it’s been such a journey, with ups and downs and huge highs. We’re always just trying to be better at doing what we do, and be a great example for the kids.

“But really we don’t look too far ahead, because what we’re really good at is enjoying every moment and never taking anything for granted.”

ÏÏThe Chateau by Angel Strawbridge: Potagerie Bedding Set, £60-£75, from her new home fragrance and accessories range for Sainsbury’s ÏÏThe Chateau by Angel Strawbridge: Potagerie cushion, £30, from her new home fragrance and accessories range for Sainsbury’s ÍÍThe Chateau by Angel Strawbridge: Pretty peony ceramic diffuser, £10, Sainsbury’s Home

ÎÎThe Chateau

by Angel Strawbridge: Scented ceramic diffuser opulent tuberose, £10, Sainsbury’s Home

ÏÏAngel Strawbridge who decorated the honeymoon suite at the Chateau-de-la-Motte-Husson with scraps of vintage wallpaper the couple found hidden away in the attic

SWANSEA LIFE 101

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Home-accessory inspiration from Japan

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eastern promise

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Artificial bamboo tree, £25, George Home

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HOUSE & HOME

Teacup, £3, Sainsbury’s Home

Wedgwood wonderlust large mug – oriental jewel £30, Amara.com

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Wash bag, £29, Ted Baker Pillowcase (part of a set with double duvet cover), £65, Christy

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Sainsbury’s Home Bright oriental double oven glove, £5.50

Tray, £40, Wedgewood

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Cushion, £16, Dunelm

Jug, £35, Oliver Bonas

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Eastern influence oriental painting with cranes and tree, £179.99, HomeSense

Teapot, £12.99, Homesense

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Bamboo fan, £45, Oliver Bonas

Crane chopstick rest, £4.99, British Museum shop

Vase, £24.99, TK Maxx Bowl and chopsticks, £20, Anthropologie

102 SWANSEA LIFE

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Notebook, £3.99, TK Maxx

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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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ÎÎJan Constantine pop art love and heart cushion, £110, Amara

SWANSEA LIFE 104

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Nissan ups ante on its QashqaI NISSAN may lay claim to having invented the first crossover model with the introduction of the Qashqai back in 2006, but these days the majority of new arrivals on the new car scene seem to be vying for sales in that fiercely competitive sector writes Maxine Ashford.

So, clearly Nissan needs to up its game with every reinvention of the Qashqai and, most recently, the Japanese manufacturer has introduced upgraded diesel engines to the mix which deliver extra power, improved performance and lower emissions.

We tried the Qashqai in high-end Tekna trim powered by the latest 1.7-litre diesel unit delivering 150ps and 340Nm of torque, priced at £33,315 – vivid blue metallic paint added an extra £575 to the cost. This engine boasts an extra 20ps of power along with 20Nm of torque and was mated to the highly impressive Xtronic automatic transmission.

The Qashqai could complete the 0-62mph dash in 11.2 seconds and topped out at 120mph, while delivering 40.9 to 41.2mpg under the more stringent WLTP testing with carbon emissions of 154g/km.

It’s a vehicle that can carry three adults in the back provided they don’t mind rubbing

Nissan Qashqai

shoulders. The boot capacity ranges from 430 litres to 1,598 litres with the 60:40 split-folding rear seats folded flat (reduced to 401 and 1,569 litres on this car due to the optional superior Bose sound system with extra speakers).

First impressions count and the five-door Qashqai looks good from any angle thanks to its sporty profile, a V-Motion front grille, sweeping light clusters, silver roof rails, privacy glass, chrome glass surrounds, a rear roof spoiler and 19-inch Diamond Cut alloy

wheels.

Move inside and the interior is upmarket with clutter-free styling and the likes of part-leather upholstery, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, carbon-effect dashboard trim, plus all the techno treats you could wish for.

All in all, the Qashqai may be the most established and successful crossover available to buy today, but Nissan has made certain every new update really ups the ante to keep the car high in the sales charts.

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Qashqai 1.3 DiG-T N-TEC 5dr: Combined 39.8MPG (7.1 l/100km). CO2 emissions 130g/km. Micra Manual N-TEC IG-T 100: Combined 48.7MPG (5.8 l/100km). CO2 emissions 105g/km. X-Trail 1.7 DCi 150 N-TEC 7 seat: Combined 54.9MPG (5.9 l/100km). CO2 emissions 135g/km.

Models shown are Qashqai 1.3 DiG-T N-TEC 5dr, Micra IG-T 100 Manual N-TEC and X-Trail 1.7 DCi 150 N-TEC 7 seat. WLTP figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare figures with vehicles tested to the same technical procedures. Actual real-world driving results may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions, driving styles, vehicle load or any accessories fitted after registration. WLTP is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures; however, until April 2020 the CO2 figures are based on the outgoing (NEDC) test cycle which will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration.

106 SWANSEA LIFE

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

New Juke’s Roundabout Success route A NEW Nissan Juke takes to the road this month with vastly improved road holding and ride – thanks to roundabouts, writes Edward Stephens.

Technicians at the car maker’s European Technical Centre at Cranfield, near Milton Keynes, realised that if they could perfect the handling of the newcomer on roundabouts then everything else would fall into place.

And the project went so well the car became known as the “Roundabout Star”.

“We did a lot of work ensuring that the new Juke offered the perfect ride set up for entering and leaving a roundabout,” David Moss senior vice president research and development told me.

“We knew that if we could get that right the car’s handling would be fine on all types of roads. Our aim was always to make the customer’s experience better.

“Surprisingly a lot of countries don’t have roundabouts. In fact we had to build one in Japan to help us with the work.”

Word of the ride improvements – not to mention improvements to style, space and connectivity – must have leaked out as there are already 2,000 orders for the new car from Juke enthusiasts. Prices range from £17,395 to £23,895.

Nissan Juke

The new car, which is designed, engineered and built in Britain, loosely retains the shape of the original but has more flair and has moved up market in every way.

The Juke becomes the first Nissan which allows owners to check their car’s status using their smart phone to find out, for example, how much fuel is left in the tank or if the doors are locked.

And if they aren’t you can do from the comfort of your own home. Later in 2020 in-car wi-fi will also be available.

The second generation Juke is powered by a

three-cylinder, 117ps 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine, with a choice of either a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed auto.

And while both tend to be a little slow off the mark they give a good account of themselves if you wind the revs up, hitting 60mph in a very respectable 10.4 seconds and going on to a top speed of 112mph.

But best of all is the handling. The work on the roundabouts of Milton Keynes – and there are a lot of them – obviously paid off.

The new Juke handles them with aplomb.

Flowing in and out as if they didn’t exist. Nice work Mr Moss.

SWANSEA LIFE 107

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Nothing scary About aUDI E-tron AUDI may be a little late arriving to the all-electric party, but with the launch of the all-new e-tron comes absolute proof that it’s been well worth the wait, writes Maxine Ashford.

It’s the premium German manufacturer’s first fully electric production model and it comes in full-SUV guise sized somewhere between the Q5 and Q7. There are two trim levels called e-tron and e-tron Launch Edition priced from £71,520 and £82,270 respectively (excluding the £3,500 Government plug-in grant).

There was also an Edition 1 version that was limited to just 30 cars for the UK and they were snapped up within days of being announced.

From a design point of view the e-tron is easily distinguishable from a ‘regular’ model, but it’s not so radical to scare away buyers.

There is a unique e-tron grille, signature daytime running lights with four horizontal struts integrated into the LED headlights, LED Matrix lights, dynamic front and rear sweeping indicators, privacy glass, a panoramic sunroof and a choice of 20 or 21-inch alloys with orange brake calipers available as an option to match the e-tron badges on the front wings.

The interior is premium quality throughout with soft touch surfaces, the finest leather upholstery and a wealth of on-board

Audi e-tron

The driving range is an impressive 241 miles (WLTP) and charging can be as rapid as 30 minutes for up to 80% on a fast charger. Up to 11kW AC charging enables a full charge from empty in 8.9 hours. And for convenience, the e-tron has charging points positioned on both sides of the car.

All in all, factor in the comprehensive array of safety features and the e-tron is a spectacular launch model for Audi in the EV sector.

And it’s just a sign of things to come as Audi claims it is the standard bearer for a major expansion of BEV and PHEV vehicles that will see in excess of 20 electrified models joining the range by 2025.

technology to explore. There are two high definition colour touchscreens with the upper one responsible for all the car’s infotainment, navigation, phone, audio, vehicle settings and much more.

The lower screen is where all the climate control and seat heater functions are located.

Powering the e-tron there is a 95kWh battery mounted beneath the passenger compartment that feeds two electric motors (one on each axle) to produce a maximum 408ps. This translates into a 0-62mph sprint time of 5.7 seconds and top speed limited to 124mph – not bad for a vehicle weighing just shy of 2.5 tonnes.

Isn’t it time you switched?

All electric and all Audi. Embrace change with the new e-tron 50 quattro offering a driving range of up to 186 miles, fast charging in around 30 minutes and available with £3,500 off the purchase price via the Government’s OLEV Plug-In Grant*.

The new Audi e-tron 50 quattro. From £59,900 at Sinclair Audi Centres now.

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www.sinclairaudi.co.uk *The Plug-In Vehicle Grant is a grant currently offered by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) to eligible manufacturers to promote the purchase of ultra low emission vehicles. All Audi e-tron models qualify for this grant. The £3,500 grant has already been deducted from the recommended ‘on the road’ price shown (and therefore the recommended ‘on the road’ price will increase in the event that grant funding is withdrawn, or eligibility for the grant or the grant amount changes, for any reason). Customers purchasing an Audi e-tron 55 or Audi e-tron 50 will receive a maximum of £3,500 off the purchase price. Your Audi centre will submit the details of your order online in order to claim the grant funding. The grant is subject to full T&Cs and eligibility requirements. To find out more contact your Audi Centre or visit https://www.gov.uk/plug-in-car-van-grants.

110 SWANSEA LIFE

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Jaguar e-pace ready to Pounce THERE are no doubt some who still view Jaguar’s entry into the SUV sector with suspicion – mind you they are probably the same people who didn’t like the idea of Jaguar making an estate car, writes Enda Mullen.

Jaguar is no longer just about sports cars and sports saloons and with its expanding range of SUVs starting to dominate when it comes to sales you can be sure that they’re here to stay.

While another Jaguar SUV (the all-electric I-PACE) is seen as hugely important because it’s spearheading Jaguar Land Rover move’s towards electrification, the E-PACE is arguably going to prove more significant.

It’s shaping-up to become the breakthrough car for the brand that the XE saloon was intended to be.

The XE represented a huge investment by Jaguar and was described by some as the most important car it had ever made.

The E-PACE is Jaguar’s most affordable SUV. It looks nice enough, with a profile that hints enough at Jaguar’s current design language, though falling short of saying ‘look at me I’m a Big Cat’.

On the inside the ergonomics are impressive, something that was enhanced in this very high-spec R-Dynamic HSE model.

It featured a super snazzy red and black

Jaguar E-PACE

interior that was hard not to like and most passengers who came on board commented favourably on it.

All E-PACEs also come with Jaguar Land Rover’s latest Touch Pro infotainment system with voice control, a 10-inch touchscreen interface and a customisable home screen.

The 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel engine is available in three different power variants – 150, 180 and 240ps.

Petrol power comes courtesy of two 2.0-litre petrol units delivering 240 and 300ps.

The more powerful unit fitted to this car proved to be a sweet and smooth performer.

It powers the E-PACE along surprisingly quickly with a choice of driving modes depending on what you’re doing. The E-PACE is at its most sporty in dynamic mode, but feels sufficiently sprightly in normal mode. A 0-62mph sprint speed of 6.5 seconds is impressive to say the least.

However, it does come at a price in terms of fuel economy. A combined economy figure of 31.7mpg might be a bit off-putting, though using the ECO mode does make a difference.

When it comes to handling it has a nice car-like and agile feel which make driving it a pretty pleasurable experience.

JAGUAR E-PACE

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Available to test drive today, contact us for more details.

Search Jaguar E-PACE Offers Sinclair Jaguar Swansea Enterprise Park, Valley Way, Bon-y-maen, Swansea SA6 8QP 01792 764240 www.sinclairjaguar.co.uk

SWANSEA LIFE 111

Advertisement feature

off-road challenge no problem for disco HERE’S a professional secret; testing an off-roader off road often means a change of car and a change of tyres too, writes Ian Donaldson.

So, you arrive at a demanding off-road course in a snazzy new XYZ and you’re rapidly decanted into a similar vehicle except it’s now wearing chunky tyres in place of the roadgoing ones.

Some little time later, suitably impressed with the way your XYZ managed the roads, streams and sheer descents put in its path, you switch back to your original car and head out on the open road.

It was, therefore, a bit of a surprise to find myself in a new Discovery Sport in remote North Yorkshire and on the sort of off-road challenge a careful goat might think worth avoiding – and on the same set of road tyres it arrived on.

Less of a surprise to discover the newcomer romped round. You could almost sense its disdain at the obstacles in its path, some of them tackled without the driver needing to touch either brake or accelerator pedal, with the right button touched on its shiny new dashboard.

No doubt about it, the new Disco Sport will do everything (and much more) that a likely owner is going to ask of it, what with the

Land Rover Discovery Sport

danger of scratches and scuffs on body and alloys on a car whose repairs would be down to you.

Mud hosed off the alloys, the news is as cheering when the car is hustled down the road too, with the diesel engine never raising its voice above a whisper and turning almost limo-like in sheer refinement on smoother sections of the M6 (yes, they do exist).

So, on and off road the new Discovery Sport makes a convincing case for itself. Which is just as well for it’s the company’s biggest seller, just nudging into second place the new Evoque.

All the new Discovery Sports bar the base diesel help themselves to better economy and

tailpipe emissions with a (very) mild hybrid system that charges an underfloor battery when the car decelerates and pushes power back into the drivetrain when you accelerate.

This saves up to 10g/km of CO2 and improves official fuel economy by 7%. A more full-on plug-in hybrid arrives next year with a new three-cylinder petrol engine that promises still better eco credentials.

Out on the road in a middish range D180 AWD SE Discovery Sport (£43,175) it’s the car’s interior hush that instantly impresses. You have to listen hard for the diesel knock at low speeds and it vanishes completely at a main road cruise.

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112 SWANSEA LIFE

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Optional purchase payment²

£11,350.00

Purchase activation fee² Total amount payable³

£10.00 £33,085.24

Duration of agreement (months)

48

Retailer deposit contribution

£3,644.04

Excess mileage ex. VAT

Total deposit

£4,013.04

Fixed rate of interest

5.78%

£24,791.76

Representative APR

5.9%

Amount of credit

8p

A 200 AMG Line

From £379 a month with £379 upfront* Representative example based on 8,000 miles per annum A 200 AMG Line (manual transmission, metallic paint) Finance product 48 monthly payment of¹ On-the-road price Customer deposit

Agility £379.00 £28,855.00 £379.00

Optional purchase payment²

£11,425.00

Purchase activation fee² Total amount payable³

£10.00 £33,202.85

Duration of agreement (months)

48

Retailer deposit contribution

£3,196.85

Excess mileage ex. VAT

Total deposit

£3,575.85

Representative APR

5.9%

£25,279.15

Fixed rate of interest

5.78%

Amount of credit

8p

To find out more, please speak to a member of the sales team at your local Mercedes-Benz Retailer listed below.

Mercedes-Benz of Cardiff & Newport

Mercedes-Benz of Swansea

Mercedes-Benz of Bridgend

Mercedes-Benz of Neyland

Mulberry Drive, Cardiff Gate Business Park, Pontprennau, Cardiff CF23 8RS 029 2054 2400 Old Field Road, Bridgend CF35 5LJ 01656 868700

Langdon Road, Swansea SA1 8QY 01792 479400 Havenbridge Road, Neyland SA73 1QY 01646 602211

www.mercedes-benzsouthwales.co.uk Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the A-Class Range: combined32.5(8.7)-282.5(1.0). CO₂ emissions* from 192-31 g/km.

The indicated values were determined according to the prescribed measurement method - WorldwideHarmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). Figures shown may include options which are not availablein the UK. *CO2 figures have been converted into NEDC-equivalent values for use with the current VED andBIK tax legislation. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare with other cars tested to thesame technical procedures. Figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a numberof factors including factory-fitted options, accessories fitted (post registration), variations in weather, drivingstyles and vehicle load. Further information about the test used to establish fuel consumption and CO2 figurescan be found at www.mercedes-benz.co.uk/WLTPPrices, Information correct at time of going to press (02/20), data sourced from KeeResources/KWIKcarcost. *Terms and conditions apply. 1Finance offer based on a Mercedes-Benz Agility agreement. Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may be payable. 2Payable if you exercise the option to purchase the car. 3Includes optional purchase payment, purchase activation fee and Retailer deposit contribution. Orders/credit approvals on A 180 SE, A 180 AMG Line Executive and A 200 AMG Line (manual) hatchback models only between 20 January and 29 February 2020, registered by 30 June 2020. Guarantees may be required. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Subject to availability. Over 18s only. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Finance, MK15 8BA.

For Business users From April 2020 Electric cars are exempt from company car tax, claim 100% of the cost of the vehicle as capital expenditure

QUALITY STAIRLIFTS TAILORED FOR YOU.

w w w. r t e c g a r a g e . c o . u k

Welcome to

NEW FOR 2020

• Alton Towers • Cadbury World • Chessington World of Adventures • Disneyland Paris • Harry Potter • Legoland • Longleat Safari Park • Paultons Park • Thorpe Park • West Midlands Safari Park

TEL: 01639 636640 @DJThomasNeath

@DJThomasNeath

TIME FOR YOU

Weekend wonder

The annual two-week holiday is becoming a thing of the past, according to an Office of National Statistics report, with long weekends away now surpassing them in popularity.

Rob Dalling heads off for one in London...

f there’s one place which is always going to offer up fun, exciting and varied places to do without jetting off to foreign shores it’s surely London.

From history and landmarks to some of the best entertainment and finest places to eat and drink, the capital is a place that always remains full of endless possibilities. And it was that hustle and bustle of The Big Smoke that my partner and I felt was the perfect place for a weekend getaway and a sightseeing adventure away from the monotony of our sometimes daily routines.

And a little under three and a half hours later, after a pleasant enough train journey out of Swansea towards the Big Smoke, we found ourselves doing exactly that!

I

118 SWANSEA LIFE

STAY AT It will come as no surprise that the English capital is jam packed full of accommodation options. But this time, we decided to try out a budget option with a difference, still within close distance of at least some of the main attractions, but at the same time slightly removed from the hysteria the city sometimes encompasses.

To this notion, we lodged in the heart of the business district and within walking distance of famous landmarks and attractions such as the Tower of London and London Bridge. After a 25-minute tube journey from London Paddington, we found ourselves at the sparkling new flagship Travelodge London City PLUS. We’ve stayed at a Travelodge before, who hasn’t? But this was something different to the norm promising a step up in terms of look, style and comfort.

The first impressions were noticeably different too. Its decor was more contemporary than the Travelodge norm with rooms boasting blackout curtains and a seriously comfy king sized bed. There were other added comforts too notably, an in-room Lavazza A Modo Mio fresh capsule coffee machine to get the day off to the best start, followed by a refreshing three-jet shower. There’s also a stylish new bar cafe, where we made the most of its unlimited breakfast and licensed bar to have a few drinks in the evening.

On top of the enhanced facilities, we were equipped with all the home comforts you’d want, with a freeview TV and a modern en-suite bathroom and handy bedside USB charging points, along with an iron and ironing board.

Practically speaking, the hotel was easy to find, as it’s only a stone’s throw away from

Tried and tested...

Plaza Lounge at Heathrow Terminal 4

Aldgate East underground station, which is ultra convenient when you want to make the most of your time and don’t want to waste any travelling to outlying areas.

OUT AND ABOUT The most fun we had on our 48-hour break was at the capital’s coolest bar – quite literally. Ice Bar London is well worth a visit.

It’s something of a secret in London, tucked away down an alleyway in Heddon Street in Mayfair. You walk into a bar literally made of ice, with temperatures at -5c. Wrapped up warm in a cape and gloves to keep you warm whilst inside, you get treated to a cocktail of our choosing served in a glass, you guessed it, made of ice.

There’s a variety of different ice sculptures inside the bar and even a throne made of ice, which is worth sitting on to get a memorable picture, but you won’t manage to sit there long as it’s freezing. After enjoying a 40-minute session inside, it’s definitely time to warm up.

And you can do that without going anywhere else – as the venue also has its own ‘firebar’, where you can warm up and enjoy a few more cocktails and some signature snacks before carrying on with your day.

HAVE LUNCH Hop on a tube to St Paul’s and you’ll find Paternoster Square and Paternoster Chophouse. It’s situated in the backdrop of St Paul’s Cathedral and has a good range of dishes from meat, fish and vegan options.

You get decent portions whatever you go for, so go with an empty stomach. The chophouse burger comes recommended.

There’s a good bar service, with varied cocktails, wine and beer options available to keep everybody happy.

SPEND THE AFTERNOON You can’t go to London without taking in some history, and you can do so without spending a penny at British Museum, the first national public museum in the world.

It brings together under one roof the cultures of the world, spanning continents and oceans and had an unbelievable eight million inside, exploring the diversity of human cultures, from small communities to vast empires. It’s Egyptian area is particularly fascinating, and if you’ve got a young family, there’s no doubt the imaginations of young ones will be captivated by its mummies..

THE NEXT DAY Head to Hyde Park, it’s one of London’s most stunning parks and the best part of all, it’s free, so is a good way to balance out an expensive weekend.

There’s plenty of points of significance, from memorials, fountains and statues including some to honour Diana, Princess of Wales, and the victims of July 7, 2005 London Bombings. The Rose Garden, Speakers’ Corner and if you’re lucky you’ll spot a diverse variety of flora and fauna within its wildlife.

Oooh, we love a bit of an airport debate, don’t we?

Absolutely love it. Cardiff over Bristol, Bristol over Cardiff... the argument rages for ever.

Someone will invariably chip in about the woes of one over the other whenever the subject is raised. Airport snobbery is alive and well. And when it comes to airport lounges, well, don’t even get me started! Are they worth it or not? Well, generally speaking I’d say ‘ yes’ . Who is going to say no to a bit of VIP luxury, albeit with a price tag attached. With that in mind, we’ve been putting Heathrow’s Terminal 4 offering, The Plaza Premium Lounge to the test.

First impressions

Pretty impressive! The lounge is in two parts.

The larger part is to the right, and it’s here you’ll find the buffet and main seating area, to the other side is a good-looking bar.

What is immediatly apparent is that someone has cast a designer eye over the place and a fair degree of attention has gone into the place. There are decorative shelves with clever back lighting, comfortable chairs of every variety, different floor surfaces and an urban feel to the wall coverings.

The overriding sense was one of calm and luxury, a bit like a spa helped by the fact it was spotless.

There wasn’t a scrap of litter or dust in sight.

WHAT’S ON OFFER?

For me, what I like best about a good airport lounge is not having to scramble with thousands of others for an overpriced sandwich and a drink at a bar or terminal shop that is usually understaffed. What you get here is the very opposite: a good selection of food and drink in an unrushed atmosphere and service with a smile.

We were here early, so opted for a full English from a self-service area ...finishing it off with a couple of boozy drinks each which we picked up from the bar. Well, we were on holiday after all!

VERDICT:

From costly car parking fees to uncompetitive currency exchanges, travelling through an airport is something of a minefield for people who don’t want to get ripped off.

Food and drink is where they really get you; by the time you’ve ordered a pint and a not-so-satisfactory airport snack, you’ll be lucky to get much change from £20. Even water can wind up setting you back a small fortune at a sometimes extortionate price of £4.

Enough to make you choke, ironically.

So while airport lounge might be seen as just another way of extorting money out of passengers, I reckon they have tangible benefits for consumers and offer good value with unlimited drinks (hot drinks, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages), complimentary Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, newspapers and magazines. At a walk-in rate of £35pp, it’s a 10/10 for this place in our book!”

* www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/639/London-City-hotel • 08719 846534

* Opening hours: 05:00 – 22:00 daily Tel: +44 208 745 0765 Website: www.plazapremiumlounge.com Email – uk@plaza-network.com

WHAT’S ON

h c r a M

Seven GOOD THINGS TO DO ART IN THE MANSION

WHERE? Aberglasney Gardens • WHEN? March 20. 6.30 - 8.30pm The ever-popular work of David Cowdry is returning for Aberglasney’s ‘Art in the Mansion’ exhibition. This year is the 15th anniversary showcasing his work so the event promises to be special.

“It’s all about light and atmosphere for me,” says Cowdry. “ Trying to paint realistically the landscapes and wildlife that I love but trying to give the paintings something extra, something that a photo wouldn’t be able to capture.”

Organisers say it should offer up the best opportunity to view and purchase his sought-after artwork and talk to the artist himself about his latest pieces. Following the preview evening, the exhibition will be on display until March 26.

Copyright David Cowdry

Jean-Christophe Novelli

WHERE? Food marquee, Portland Street, Swansea WHEN? March 1. 12 noon.

Multi Michelin Star award-winning celebrity chef JeanChristophe Novelli takes centre stage for a street cookery demonstration as part of the Swansea’s St David’s Day Croeso Food & Drink Festival, a two day event celebrating all things Welsh.

Dubbed the nation’s favourite French chef, Novelli, who has catered for royalty, heads of state, and Hollywood stars, will be creating some speciality dishes to inspire visitors at the free event which will also feature local chefs and celebrity home cooks making good use of fresh local produce and providing plenty of inspiration for foodies. www.enjoyswanseabay.com

Tickets: Normal admission prices to the garden do not apply for the preview evening.

This Is Me WHERE? Grand Theatre, Swansea WHEN? March 3. 7.30pm Showman Giovanni Pernice is set to light up the stage, along with his cast of professional dancers, for his fourth year of touring.

The Italian’s natural charm and beautiful choreography, perfectly complemented by a fabulous soundtrack pays homage to the music and dances that have inspired his career, from a competition dancer to one of the biggest names on the hit BBC show, Strictly.

Tickets: 01792 475715

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Rob Brydon Songs and Stories

FIDELIO Royal Opera Chorus

WHERE? Taliesin Theatre, Swansea WHEN? March 20. 7.15pm

WHERE? Brangwyn Hall, Swansea WHEN? March 7. 7.30pm

Beethoven’s only opera is a masterpiece, an uplifting story of risk and triumph. In this new production, conducted by Antonio Pappano, Jonas Kaufmann plays the political prisoner Florestan, and Lise Davidsen his wife Leonore (disguised as ‘Fidelio’) who daringly sets out to rescue him.

Join celebrated comedian, singer, actor, presenter and impressionist – the brilliantly talented Rob Brydon, for a very special evening of toe-tapping tunes and laughter!

Best known for feel-good TV favourites like Gavin and Stacey and Would I Lie to You, Rob swaps the screen for the stage as he takes his new show ‘Songs and Stories’ out on the road to a series of intimate venues across the UK. He will be accompanied by a live band in what promises to be an unforgettable evening of storytelling and song. Expect Sondheim to Rodgers and Hammerstein, Paul Simon to Tom Waits.

Set in strong counterpoint are the ingredients of domestic intrigue, determined love and the cruelty of an oppressive regime. The music is transcendent throughout and includes the famous Act I Quartet, the Prisoners’ Chorus and Florestan’s impassioned Act II cry in the darkness and vision of hope. Tobias Kratzer’s new staging brings together the dark reality of the French Revolutionary ‘Terror’ and our own time to illuminate Fidelio’s inspiring message of shared humanity.

TICKETS:

01792 475715

Wales v Scotland

Where? Principality Stadium, Cardiff When? March 14 Venue: Principality Stadium, Cardiff

Wales have been chosen to kick off Super Saturday in the early 2.15pm slot as this year’s Six Nations comes to what is bound to be a dramatic conclusion.

Scotland are the visitors and down the years matches between the two countries have tended to be open affairs. It was 18-11 to Wales at Murrayfield on the road to the Grand Slam last season. That is out of their reach this time around, but the new coaching regime led by Wayne Pivac has brought a new attacking emphasis to play, so expect tries.

Tickets: Via the WRU’s official online ticket office (powered by Ticketmaster).

ARTISAN FESTIVAL

WHERE: Gower Heritage Centre When: March 21 and 22

Some of the finest artisans in the region will be showcasing their talent in Gower at this traditional get-together running over two days in March.

The finest traditional artists, collectors, creators and maybe even a candle stick maker will be bringing their wares to the Heritage Centre offering the public the chance to see how they go about their work.

Tickets: 01792 371206

SWANSEA LIFE 121

INCREDIBLE PERFORMANCES THIS SPRING...

MIKE DOYLE

ROH SWAN LAKE BALLET

Rocking with Laughter

On the Big Screen

27th March

1st April

An Evening of Stories and Songs with

MAL POPE

3rd April

24th April

17th April

Orchard Street | Neath | SA11 1DU | Tel: 0300 365 6677 | www.gwynhall.com

|

SOCIAL DIARY

going out...

16 pages of people and parties in swansea

AWARDS NIGHT WHere: Stradey Park Hotel, Llanelli Tell Me More: A black-tie event run by WalesOnline along with sister papers the Carmarthen Journal and the Llanelli Star, recognising and celebrating the diverse range of businesses in Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion.

Pictures: Hoosh Multimedia

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EXHIBITION LAUNCH WHere:

Ffwrness Theatre, Llanelli TELL ME MORE:

An exhibition VIP opening night for the artist Peter Spriggs photography:

Hoosh Multimedia

SWANSEA LIFE 127

SOCIAL DIARY

VENUE LAUNCH WHere: Bunkers, Little Wind Street, Swansea TELL ME MORE: Proprietor, Adventure Leisure Limited, which owns and operates 10 existing Mr Mulligans adventure golf venues across the UK, staged a VIP launch night to unveil its new Swansea ‘Bunkers’ venue. The night also saw Swansea aerospace engineering student Louis Marsh named as the winner of its Facebook and Instagram competition.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Mark Lewis Photography

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AWARDS NIGHT WHere: Marriott Hotel, Swansea TELL ME MORE: A party and awards night for staff at the popular Swansea Marina hotel PHOTOGRAPHY: Hoosh Multimedia

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SOCIAL DIARY

FILM FESTIVAL WHere: Reading Room at the Alex Design Exchange, Swansea TELL ME MORE: The Copper Coast International Film Festival returned for its fourth run with a packed week of screenings and speakers, and a variety of discussions and debates. At its heart is an international short film competition, with entries submitted from around the world and which were screened throughout the week, culminating in an awards ceremony, hosted by the University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s Honorary Fellow Mal Pope.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Adam Davies

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SOCIAL DIARY

BUSINESS GET TOGETHER WHere: Basekamp by Afan Coffee Co, Swansea TELL ME MORE: A ‘Strategies to Success Panel’, an exclusive network of innovative entrepreneurs who meet once a month to share ideas, experiences and support one another.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Amy Reed – Flashbulb Photography and Video

134 SWANSEA LIFE

ROYAL VISIT WHere: Mumbles TELL ME MORE: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge met some of the many hundreds of residents and high-fived schoolchildren on a visit to Mumbles calling in to meet crew members at the RNLI lifeboat station and going on a walkabout along a blustery seafront. William, 37, and Kate, 38, also stopped off at Joe’s to sample a scoop of ice cream and to talk to parents about her UK-wide survey to help improve early childhood.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jonathan Myers, PA & Getty Images

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2 Adults & 2 Children

3 nights from

HOLIDAYS

Our price includes

©Disney

©Disney

Accommodation 2 day Disney® Parks Hopper Ticket Ferry Crossings Executive Coach Travel

All 2020 dates now available 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 • Swansea 01792 456600

£956

TIME FOR YOU

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 .......... Reserve entrance opposite school Distance ..................................... 1.5 miles (1.5 hours) Level ............................................. Easy Parking ........................................ On-street between school and Tregof Estate (one-hour limit weekdays)

Swansea Vale Nature Reserve This nature reserve, almost in the centre of Swansea, is surprisingly hard to visit in the weekday by car, given the limited parking time allowed. But at the weekend the restrictions are lifted and you can park just around the corner from the entrance. This six-hectare reserve is one of the few remaining wetlands in Swansea. Here, otters and kingfishers live but keep themselves hidden from passing walkers.

More likely to be seen are the orchids, dragonflies and other waterfowl.

I’ll be leading a few walks in the area, starting on Sunday, April 5 when I’ll do a walk in the morning followed by another walk in the afternoon. This will give you the option to come along for one or both walks as I explore the reserve and surrounding area. I’ll also have a couple

140 SWANSEA LIFE

of evening walks here in June and July.

Details will be on our website by April.

Enter the reserve by the wooden gate opposite the school and follow the path to the meeting of two streams. Here, where the Nant-Brân flows into the reserve, turn right, going across the bridge to follow the boardwalk. This path runs parallel with the road in which you parked. At a path junction, turn right to emerge back onto this road then go left a few yards to cross over at the designated crossing area into the northern section of the reserve.

Here, in contrast to the southern, more untamed section, is an idyllic setting of a small lake with waterfowl surrounded by a park-like grassy area with seats. Follow the path around the lake then go northwards along the grassy bank of the Fendrod River.

Upcoming walks march 2020 Sun 01 Five Gower Churches (12 miles). Moderate.

Meet 9.30am Penmaen: NT car park Tue 04 Gorseinon to Swansea (Bus Linear) (8 miles).

Moderate. Meet 10am Gorseinon: Lloyds Pharmacy Sat 07

Henrhyd Falls (5 miles). Moderate.

Meet 11am Ynyswen: Jct. A4067 & Cribarth Road

Sun 08 Dare Valley and the Rhigos (11 miles).

Strenuous. Meet 9am Guildhall (Francis Street)

Here if you are lucky, you may, as I once did, see a kingfisher. I’ll be leading a longer walk further along this path but for now, on meeting a tarmacadam path, turn left onto it to double back then left again at the next path junction.

This tarmacadam path returns parallel to the riverbank path you used on your way north.

Returning to the lake and the road, cross at the same point but this time go straight over to the cycle path on the edge of the reserve. Follow this south then turn left over a bridge across the Fendrod. Continue along the reserve path (ignoring the exit into another estate) and follow it north as it returns to the first bridge you used when you started the walk. Don’t cross but continue on to leave the reserve by the gate opposite the school.

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

Sun 08 Corntown (8 miles). Moderate.

Meet 9.15am Guildhall (Francis Street) Mon 09 Mynydd Gelliwasted (4 miles). Moderate.

Meet 10am Craig-Cefn-Parc: Rhyddwen Road Tue 10 Rhossili to Penmaen (Bus Linear) (13 miles).

Strenuous. Meet 9.30am Penmaen: NT car park Sat 14

Brynamman (5 miles) Moderate.

Meet 11am Brynamman: Jct. A4068 & A4069

Sun 15 Penlle’r Castell (9 miles). Strenuous.

Meet 9am Guildhall (Francis St) Mon 16 Clyne Valley and Common (4 miles).

Easy/moderate. Meet 10am

Blackpill: The Woodman Inn Car Park Wed 18 Landimore (8 miles). Moderate.

Meet 10am Landimore Sun 22 Gower Alps (13 miles). Strenuous. Meet

9.30am Reynoldston: Park on road to P.O. Sun 22 Twyn Eithinog from Ystradgynlais

(8 miles). Moderate. Meet 10.30am Ystradgynlais: Outside Diamond Park Mon 23 Glyncorrwg and The Afan Valley

(5 miles). Easy/moderate. Meet 10am

Glyncorrwg: Jct. Bridge Street / Castle Street Wed 25 Baglan & Briton Ferry Woods (4 miles).

Moderate. Meet 10am Baglan: Near

Blaenbaglan School Sat 28 Poor Man’s Wood, Llandovery (Train)

(6 miles). Easy/moderate. Meet 9.15am High Street Station: 9.34 am train Sun 29 Burry Port and Mynydd Penbre (11 miles).

Moderate . Meet 9.15am Gowerton (B4295):

Public car park Mon 30 West Cross to Rotherslade (4 miles). Easy.

Meet 10am West Cross: Grange Road: SA3 3ES

SWANSEA LIFE 141

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PETER LYNN & PARTNERS

Inheritance Disputes As much as a Will is designed to represent the final wishes of a loved one, it is not always the case that they will distribute their assets in a manner that some family members would regard as “fair”.

To this end, there are two types of claim an individual can progress: 1. A claim against the validity of the will – a Contentious Probate Claim; or 2. A claim brought under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependents) Act 1975 Contentious Probate Disputes These disputes are brought about when the validity of a Will is challenged.

Neil Jacobi, Solicitor & Specialist in Will Disputes & Inheritance Act Claims, talks this month about inheritance disputes

There can be several reasons for this challenge:  Fraud and forgery  Undue influence  Lack of knowledge and approval  Lack of testamentary intention  Lack of due execution  Lack of testamentary capacity  Revocation Inheritance Act claims It is important to note that these cases are different to contentious probate disputes (when the argument is that the will is NOT valid) as in Inheritance Act cases you accept that if there is a Will, it is valid – but you are arguing that it doesn’t make “reasonable financial provision” for you.

The Inheritance Act 1975 provides a route where someone can make a claim

on the basis that the deceased’s Will or the intestacy rules do not make sufficient financial provision for them, usually because they were financially dependent on the deceased at the time of death.

People who are eligible to make this type of challenge include:  The spouse or civil partner of the deceased.  Someone who had lived with the deceased during the whole of the period of two years ending immediately before the date when the deceased died, in the same household as the deceased and as the husband or wife of the deceased.  A former spouse or former civil partner of the deceased (but not one who has formed a subsequent marriage or civil partnership).  A child of the deceased (including those who are now adults).  Any person (not being a child of the deceased) who was treated by the deceased as a child of the family.  Any person who immediately before the death of the deceased was being maintained either wholly or partly by the deceased.

This type of legal dispute is often complex and requires expert advice and guidance, so our advice is simple; arrange a free 30-minute meeting with the team at Peter Lynn and Partners who will assess your case and advise you on the most appropriate course of action.

For more information, call 01792 450010 or email Wills@plandp.co.uk

To arrange a free initial meeting, call 01792 450010 or email Wills@plandp.co.uk Preventing legal problems 144 SWANSEA LIFE

TIME FOR YOU

The best new books to add to your march reading list A good book by your side is surely an essential... here’s Swansea Life’s pick of the best

 Hotel Du Jack And Other Stories

by Dan Brotzel is published in paperback by Sandstone Press, priced £8.99 (ebook £4.99). Available now Dip into Dan Brotzel’s new collection of short stories and you find yourself nimbly, leaping from story to story. He packs each mini escapade with surprise and wit, playing deftly with form and tone and probing what is absurd and poignant in everyday life. Nothing So Blue considers the difficulties involved in actually landing the superhero powers you wished for; Foods Of Love is a sweet and thoughtful ode to the meals that make a marriage, before

a sucker punch of a final line; Listing To Port offers an exposing series of shopping lists that outline the rise and demise of a relationship; and In Here is a truly malevolent snapshot from the mind of an increasingly abusive man inflicting ‘love’ on his girlfriend. Each story can turn on a phrase, and there’s a powerful sensation that something sinister is inching towards you with every line. Quite irresistible!

 America Was Hard To Find

by Kathleen Alcott is published in paperback by Weidenfeld & Nicolson, priced £8.99 (ebook £4.99). Available now In the late 1950s, against the backdrop of the Mojave Desert, an Air Force test pilot and a bartender have a brief but intense affair. Each will go on to find fame, infamy or both. Vincent Kahn will become an astronaut and the first man to walk on the moon, while Fay will be wanted for violent acts of political terrorism, campaigning against the horrors of the Vietnam war for which she believes the space race has become a shield. The third voice of the

novel is from the next generation. Wright, the unsuspecting consequence of a desert romance, becomes the by-product of his parents’ wars, denied a clear future without first finding his cause. America Was Hard To Find is an ambitious attempt to capture three turbulent decades of political unrest. A striking voice, visceral and electric, Kathleen Alcott is an author to watch.

 Miss Austen

by Gill Hornby is published in hardback by Century, priced £12.99 (ebook £7.99). Available now It’s well known that Cassandra Austen, Jane’s sister, burnt many of the writer’s letters after her death. What caused her to destroy them remains a mystery – although it’s likely it was to protect Jane’s reputation. In Miss Austen, Hornby imagines scenarios that could have caused Cassandra to take such action. In so doing, she must create unflattering representations of an at-times confusing array of characters from the Austen family.

Hornby is clearly familiar with Austen’s writing and is able

to mimic her style, but at times, the narrative is bogged down by sentimentality, or drags with a lack of plot movement. Where the theme threads around the concept of spinsterhood – and what that represented for unmarried women in the 19th century – the spirit of feisty independence is muddled and muted as the story reaches its end. Miss Austen is likely to frustrate Austen fans – and disappoint those simply after a light read.

 People Like Us: What it Takes to Make it in Modern Britain

by Hashi Mohamed is published in hardback by Profile Books, priced £16.99 (ebook £10.31). Available now Hashi Mohamed’s People Like Us casts a judgemental eye over social mobility in Britain today. Race, class, confidence and language are considered along with Mohamed’s own experiences, as the successful barrister tells the story of how he transformed his early life as a refugee of the Somali civil war. The author’s argument uses personal anecdotes and findings from social studies to highlight the improbability of his success. CVs landing on the right desks, conscientious teachers and a string of bold moves from Mohamed himself made the difference,

but the statistics appear stacked against the large majority of the working class. The second generation Somali argues that the immigrant and BAME experience compounds the stifling conditions many in Britain find themselves in when looking to ‘better themselves’. The stark reality is offset by Mohamed’s optimism: “Society has never been more aware of the issues being explored in this book... there has never been a moment more ripe to make the most of it.” The solutions for a fairer Britain are just as complex as the society they attempt to serve.

CHILDREN’S BOOK OF THE MONTH

 Would You Like A Banana?

by Yasmeen Ismail is published in hardback by Walker Books, priced £12.99. Available now Essentially this story is about a picky eater; except the eater in question is an increasingly hungry and grumpy baby gorilla, who doesn’t want a banana.

From the book’s bright yellow jacket to author Yasmeen Ismail’s bold and funny illustrations (the frowning gorilla is particularly cute hanging upside down from a swing), Would You Like A Banana? is vivid 146 SWANSEA LIFE

and lively, even though the finale lacks a little gusto.

The writing though has excellent panto vibes, with the voice of the parent asking: ‘Would you like a banana?’ and the grouchy gorilla saying no – so little ones can shriek along too: “No, I WON’T eat a banana!” Definitely read aloud for the punchiest results.

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Everyone has been to a wedding; but not everyone has been to a tailor made Pencoed House Estate wedding.

Pencoed House Estate are excited to once again offer one of our lovely couples the opportunity to win the cost of their wedding back!

A lucky couple will have the chance to win the cost of their wedding back which would include venue hire, accommodation and pre-order drinks package to a maximum value of ÂŁ6,000, depending on how much the individual couple has booked for their special day. This exclusive prize draw will take place at Pencoed House in January 2022 for any couples who are getting married with us between January 1st and December 31st 2021 - Personal Wedding Co-ordinator - Wine Tasting Evenings - Distinguished Caterers - 36 Acres of Stunning Grounds - Bespoke accomodation - Welsh Wedding Breakfast - Use of our Woodland Bar - Bentley Cars for hire

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