June issue of the Gazette and Diary magazine 2016

Out and About ● Fine Summer Dining ● Education Matters Green Fingers ● Golden Years ● Motoring ● Pets ● Expert Services

Gazette DiaryMagazine Magazine & Diary Gazetteand

... look out for ...

● WIMBLEDON - Two weeks of top tennis coverage beginning on Monday June 27. Come on Andy Murray!

● HOLLY Willoughby is to host a new dating show that will

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see people hoping to find love quizzing the parents of their potential suitors.

The format of the new ITV series, titled Meet The Parents, will give those "picking" a love interest the chance to ask the parents of the person they want to date any questions they like.

The candidates hoping to be chosen will be watching the question and answer session, but will have no control over what is revealed by their parents.

Willoughby said: "We all know how embarrassing parents can be and nobody knows you better than they do. I can't wait to hear what humiliating secrets they'll be revealing and see who will regret leaving their love life in the hands of their parents."

Anyone wanting to enter the show and find true love can enter on the ITV website.

● UK'S BEST PART-TIME BAND (BBC4, 9pm) sees Comedian Rhod Gilbert and Ultravox frontman Midge Ure, pictured, set off on an epic road trip across Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales to discover Britain's finest music groups, witnessing musicians playing in rehearsal spaces, pubs, barns and bedrooms.

From across the UK, more than 1,200 bands have entered the competition, playing rock to reggae, ska to skiffle, bhangra to blues and everything in between.

Eventually five acts are selected for a regional heat in Belfast, where they compete for a place in the grand final.

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Here comes SUMMER!

Welcome summer . . .

S

UMMER is here and its time to celebrate. So slake your appetite with our Summer Dining feature, showcasing the best places to indulge your epicurean side, the ideal antidote to a long day's walk in Monmouthshire's rolling countryside.

For those green fingered gardening enthusiasts who look to rival the Chelsea flower show with their DIY

back-garden endeavours, we're here to lend a helping hand with our helpful as ever go-to-guide of garden services.

Failing that we also have a special 12 of the best feature covering your every need.

All that's left is to bid you adieu and cross our fingers that the weather holds out.

Until next time ...

in association with

MONMOUTH MP DAVID DAVIES

The Abergavenny Chronicle For information on how to advertise in the next issue, please contact:

Jenna Hopkins 01873 852187 Ext 35

jenna@abergavennychronicle.com

F A C T O R Y O U T L E T

Part of the Tindle Newspaper Group

Printed by Trinity Mirror plc

carp ts south wales ltd

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holds regular advice surgeries throughout the constituency.

To make an appointment telephone 01291 672817 or email daviesd@parliament.uk www.david-daviesmp.co.uk

Published by the Abergavenny Chronicle, Nevill Street, Abergavenny, Gwent NP7 5AA

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June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue 3

Gazette DiaryMagazine Magazine & Diary Gazetteand

Family F fun at festivals

ESTIVALS are growing in popularity every single year.

Music, culture, friends, family, food and drink - what's not to like? And as the generations who grew up going to summer festivals are having children of their own and taking them along, there is now a vast array of family events taking place up and down the UK. You will have to accept that being at a festival with children is a different experience to one you may have had without them but embrace the change.

Keep them safe, protect their ears, pack the snacks, cater for all eventualities with rain ponchos and sun cream and then enjoy the fun.

From big, brilliant and expensive, to small, fun and free, there really is something for everyone this year.

TOP FAMILY FESTIVALS ◆ Latitude Festival (www.latitudefestival.com) WHERE: Henham Park, Southwold, Suffolk WHEN: July 14-17, 2016 WHY: There's a huge amount for families to do at Latitude. From crafting and workshops to an Inbetweeners Teen Area, there's music, comedy, science, food and fun around every corner.

Some great acts are playing this year too, including New Order, The Maccabees and The National. ◆ Camp Bestival (www.campbestival.net) WHERE: Lulworth Castle, Dorset WHEN: July 28-31, 2016 WHY: Camp Bestival adopts an annual theme and this year it's Outer Space. Expect dressing up, competitions, DJ workshops, comedy, storytelling, Mr Tumble, Dick and Dom, and brilliant music from Fatboy Slim, Tears For Fears and Jess Glynn. ◆ Green Man (www.greenman.net) WHERE: Brecon Beacons, Wales WHEN: August 18-21, 2016 WHY: Fast becoming known as one of the best

family fests, there's great music from Belle & Sebastian, James Blake and Wild Beasts, a cinedrome, teen area, kids' section right next to the family campsite, and many other intriguing hideaways worth some serious exploration. ◆ The Big Feastival (thebigfeastival.com) WHERE: Alex James' Farm, Kingham, The Cotswolds WHEN: August 26-28, 2016 WHY: Celebrating its fifth birthday, expect great music from the likes of Mark Ronson and the Kaiser Chiefs, delicious eats and foodie stars, kids' favourites Justin Fletcher and Dick and Dom, plus The Family Olympics, Little Dudes' Den and lots more to keep the littl'uns entertained.

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Out and ABOUT

Visiting the perfect weekend getaway I

N search of the perfect summer UK break, Sarah Marshall visits the award-winning Whatley Manor in the Cotswolds A former 1920s hunting lodge, now owned by a Swiss family, this Cotswolds country pile is a convivial upscale retreat with Tudor-style beams and large open fireplaces. Modern touches include the hotel's own mini cinema. No children under 12 are allowed, although pets are permitted.

Choose from 15 rooms and eight suites, kitted out with spacious bathrooms and Bang & Olufsen gadgets.

Suites are situated in the main house and Tudor wing, where numerous corridors offer privacy and seclusion.

Dining is first class at Whatley, with two restaurants overseen by twostarred Michelin chef Martin Burge. Le Mazot serves brasserie-style dishes in a Swiss chalet-style space, while The Dining

Room is a haute cuisine affair. Signature, vegetarian and seasonal tasting menus are available - and dishes are exquisite from start to finish.

Excellent organic Cotswolds brand ila is used in treatments at the Aquarias Spa. Inspired by an ayurvedic philosophy, facials and body rituals promise complete relaxation.

Spend time in a hydrotherapy pool, which extends outdoors, or work your way through several thermal cabins and experience showers. A salt scrub will leave skin feeling baby smooth.

The hotel offers a valet service, so you can drive right up to the front door and leave car keys at the desk. Check out to find a sprig of lavender tied to the rearview mirror, with a note wishing you a safe journey home.

Walking trails lead directly from the hotel, with routes ranging from one-hour to a full day. Ask hotel staff for maps and guides. ◆ Doubles from £325 (£350 on a Saturday) including breakfast and use of spa. The Dining Room serves dinner Wednesday to Sunday, with tasting menus from £116 per person.

A 60-minute ila Kundalini back massage costs £90.

Call 01666 822888 or visit www.whatley manor.com.

LOOKING FORWARD TO A BIG DAY OUT: Kate Humble and Gareth Malone

B

IG Day Out is returning to Humble

by Nature, Kate Humble’s working farm, for a whole weekend from Friday 1st to Sunday 3rd July 2016.

Friday’s brand new comedy evening features Miles Jupp, host of BBC Radio 4’s The News Quiz. The nation’s favourite Choir Master Gareth Malone OBE will be leading farm sing-along sessions for kids on Saturday afternoon.

Saturday Kitchen presenter Matt Tebbutt created a mouth-watering weekend of outdoor cookery and demos with world-

class chefs. Alongside comedy, food and crafts, there’s live music from Swing from Paris, Grace Hartrey, Railroad Bill, The Monty and Life Of Reilly.

Big Day Out has lots of free activities for kids. Join the Jitterbug Circus, Wild Tots outdoor play, craft workshops and the Mad Hatter’s tea party or learn survival skills in the bush craft field.

Tickets are selling fast and it sold out last year. Don’t miss out – get yours now: www.humblebynature.com/bigdayout

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◆ PUSHING aside plates of chips and pints of beer, British travellers are becoming far more interested in healthy holidays.

Responding to growing demand for wellbeing breaks, Kuoni has partnered with Wellbeing Escapes to offer a range of yoga, detox, stress management and fitness holidays.

More than 60 handpicked resorts around the world are included in the new wellbeing collection from Kuoni and Wellbeing Escapes.

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June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue 5

Gazette DiaryMagazine Magazine & Diary Gazetteand

Nigel Heath joins a party of pack packers on a memorable trip to the Blue Mountains

T

Into the Blue A view of the Blue Mountains with the eucalyptus trees in the foreground and, above the famous Three Sisters Rock

HE lady in the Sydney tourist office listened attentively as we explained that 'yes' we wanted to go to the nearby Blue Mountains but 'no' we did not want to go on a coach tour around the various stunning view points.

We actually wanted to get out and walk in them there hills and that, it appeared, was going to be easier said than done.

But luckily there was an option and that was to join a party of young backpackers whose day out to the hills was going to include two dramatic descents into the lush tropical forest far below.

And, as a spectacular second descent finale , we would be riding back up to the top on the world's steepest rock railway.

Earlier that morning my wife Jenny and I had checked in to the Sydney Harbour Marriott and now wanted to make the most of our three day Sydney stopover on our month long trip to explore New Zealand.

And just to make us feel still very much at home, Cunard's mighty flagship Queen Mary Two had arrived overnight and was towering over the harbour, now awash with cross bay ferries and dozens of busy craft of every description.

Bright and early the next morning an empty bus drew up outside our hotel and then began a lengthy tour around various back packer hostels to pick up our fellow travellers, which inevitably involved a series of delays..

"Right guys, look at all those city folk walking to work," announced our driver

once all were safely aboard. "Let's honk the horn and give them all a wave to cheer them up?"

I had decided to chill out and simply go with the flow but now this resolution was being sorely tested. These two sixty somethings gave half hearted little waves before sinking down in their seats.

From that point on our tour was great fun and we learnt a lot from the commentary on our 60k drive out to one of Australia's most popular national parks with its spectacular Three Sisters rock formation.

The Rock Railway

Photos by Jenny Davis

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Out and ABOUT They were called the Blue Mountains because the atmosphere was filled with finely dispersed droplets of oil shed by millions of Eucalyptus trees which combined with water vapours, dust particles and the sun's rays which were predominantly blue in colour.

Visitors gaze out over the park from one of the many lookouts and there are the options of canyoning, abseiling, rock climbing, mountain biking and, of course trekking.

Our first descent to the spectacular fern filled forest floor was steep and rocky and on the long slow slog back up we chatted to the youngsters who wanted to know where we were from and were happy to tell us about their gap year adventures.

Oh how lucky they are these days I thought, recalling my four years spent as a junior reporter on a local paper with just two precious weeks holiday in a whole year and no cash to go travelling anyway.

Our second descent beside steep sandstone cliffs was rewarded, as promised, by ascending speedily and effortlessly on the rock railway, originally part of the old Katoomba mining tramways built towards the end of the 18th century.

The following morning we explored the old colonial quarter, now a Mecca for art and culture buffs, and walked across the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge while high

above us, more daring tourists, like columns of harnessed ants, were taking a skywalk over the top of the curved structure That afternoon we promenaded along the packed waterfront, a scene of almost permanent carnival, popped our heads inside that opera house, and then strolled through the verdant Royal Botanical Gardens to the famous Mrs Macquarie's Chair lookout.

This exposed sandstone rock was carved into the shape of a bench by convicts back in 1810 so that Governor Macquarie's wife could enjoy sitting and watching out for British ships sailing into the harbour.

Returning to the waterfront with its host of bars and restaurants we found a sunny spot where we could sit quaffing chilled white wine while gazing out over the bustling harbour framed by the mighty bridge on one side and the opera house on the other. Life could not get much better!

However it was down to earth with a bump the following day when the weather changed and our cruise around the giant natural harbour was dampened by mist and a light drizzle.

Still our three day Sydney stopover had been great and we were flying on to Auckland, New Zealand the following afternoon.

Sydney Harbour where the mighty Queen Mary 2 was moored during Nigel Heath’s stopover

to the great outdoors!

TRAVEL FACTS We used Travelbag (tel 0871 703 4698) to book our Qantas flights and later accommodation and car hire in New Zealand.

This company has been tailor making holidays around the world for over 35 years.

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Triley Fieldss Equestrian Cen ntre Upper Triley Farm Tel: 01873 890523 Email: suzanne@trifec.com m (On the A465 to Hereford, 3.5 miles north of Abergavenny)

Dates for your Diary June 2,9,16,23,30 - Govilon Car Boot, Main Road. Every Thursday mornings.

Weather permitting. 01873 830834.

5 – Glangrwyney Baptist Chapel Anniversary at 6.30pm. Chairman Mr Chris Over (Hereford). All Welcome.

11 - Ghost-hunting at The Abergavenny Chronicle offices with Beyond the Grave - stars of TV Rhod Gilbert’s Work Experience.

11 – Raglan Arts Club Exhibition Old Church School Raglan 10am to 5pm.

Free Admission.

22 – Daytime Trip Stratford Theatre “The Alchemist” £42 or shopping only £15.

Phone 01873 857367.

23 - Abergavenny Farmers Market, Market Hall, Abergavenny. Fresh local produce.

Riding Lessons, BHS Exam training, Live eries and P Pony L Loans, Sh Show J Jumping Sh Shows, Dressa D age Shows.

Cross Country and Working Hunter C Courses available for hire

July

1 – Phoenix Singers, Baptist Chapel Govilon, 7.30pm.

Music from nine decades of Elizabeth II, supporting the Mons Eisteddfod Appeal Fund. Tickets £5 Tel: 01873 830417

June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue 7

Gazette DiaryMagazine Magazine & Diary Gazetteand

C

SOLE MATES Mink soft suede espadrille wedges from M&S £39.50

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SPEND OR SPLURGE? SUMMER STAPLE Braid trim floppy wide brim hat M&S £18

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OUNTLESS horror stories circulate about the cost of using mobile phones abroad, but new price caps, which came into effect at the end of April, mean we're heading in the right direction for using mobiles in Europe.

Now incoming intra-Europe calls cost less than a penny a minute, and the amount providers can add to your domestic tariff has been reduced. The maximum surcharge you'll pay for using data is 4.3p per MB. It's good news, as mobile phones are fast becoming invaluable tools for travellers, with a range of apps now available to help book breaks and plan itineraries on the ground.

Some can even be used offline.

According to research, Sunday night is the most popular time to book a break. Rather than trawling through endless websites, search and compare cheap flights and hotels on the free Cheapflights app (iPhone, iPad and Android). A Price Calendar and Chart Views indicate the cheapest days to fly, while the Smart Value function helps you find the best flights by balancing out price and duration.

Anyone preferring to tour Europe by train should download the new, free Loco2 app (iPhone), which allows users to book

journeys across the UK and Europe in one single transaction at no additional cost. It's possible to find times and prices for almost any route in Europe.

An Android version is coming soon.

Research suggests that the average traveller spends around 21 days researching a trip and visits an average of 38 websites in the process. Save time by seeking recommendations from travel peers with new, free app Pearlshare. Users can create digital guides filled with pearls (restaurant, bar, shop recommendations), which can then be shared.

Currently available for iPhone.

If you're already in the city and quickly want to snap up a guided tour, try the free Viator app (iPhone and Android), which sells thousands of tours ranging from family run enterprises to bigger companies.

For a quirkier take on sightseeing, try the Topdeck app which features running routes in some of Europe's top city break destinations such as London, Barcelona, Berlin, Amsterdam, Rome, Florence and Vienna. Routes, ranging from 36km, are highlighted with notable landmarks, viewpoints and hidden gems, and can be viewed both offline and online.

The free app is suitable for iPhone and Android.

Travel apps to enhance your holiday

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Out and ABOUT

No-nonsense, good-old-fashioned pub grub at great prices - the newly-refurbished Potters pub and restaurant

S

ITUATED in the heart of Newport city centre, the new-look Potters was launched in conjunction with Friars Walk, which officially reopened last November – sparing no expense, the venue has been completely transformed.

It still retains many of its original features, but with an added urban vintage feel to the new decor and fit-out comprising a new ‘snug’ with log fire and comfy seating – a great place to enjoy coffee and a cake from a selection of freshly ground Segafredo Italian coffees and homemade cakes and read the papers or just relax.

The Rabaiotti family has successfully owned and operated the Potters for many years. The venue is renowned for its weekly live- entertainment, which it hosts every Friday and Saturday night from 8pm with a great variety of talented local bands and singers.

Since the refurbishment the menu has also been changed and it is now one of the best places in town to get good value, tasty food at any time of the day.

Food is freshly prepared using the finest local ingredients, with fruit and vegetables sourced from Newport Indoor Market, and meat coming from local butchers.

Breakfast is served until 11.30am Monday to Saturday, and you can enjoy a hearty full English breakfast for only £4.50, which includes a cup of tea or for the very hungry the Potters Mega Breakfast for £6.50 among many other tasty lighter breakfast options.

Main meals are served from noon until 5pm Monday to Wednesday, and until 7.30pm Thursday to Saturday. The restaurant can also be booked for large parties and private bookings during week nights.

The menu is full of traditional pub favourites such as sausage and mash, steak and ale pie, fish and chips, lasagne, chicken curry and chilli con carne to name a few.

The grills menu is incredibly popular, offering a choice of steaks, beef and chicken burgers, a mammoth mixed grill, and also gammon steak.

Main meals start from £5.95 with all meals being freshly made each day by a team of dedicated chefs and cooks from its well- equipped upstairs kitchen – they also offer a variety of daily specials and lighter snacks and healthy options including salads, jacket potatoes and paninis, and also a children’s menu.

Sunday lunch is priced at £7.95 for one- course, £9.95 for two courses, and £10.95 for three courses. Options include roast beef, pork or turkey served with Yorkshire puds, roasties and a selection of seasonal vegetables.

There are vegetarian options, children’s portions and a limited pub menu available too.

Sunday lunch is served from noon until 5pm and advance bookings are taken or just pop in.

Why not try them for Easter Sunday Lunch, March 27 –

booking is recommended. So, if you haven’t already been to the new- look Potters, make sure you do this spring and try their delicious, home-cooked food.

You’ll find The Potters on the corner of Upper Dock Street and Corn Street and whether you’re after amazing food, great real ales, live music or a party venue you’re sure to find all that and more here. Visit the Potters day or night and you’ll discover a vibrant, stylish public house with plenty going on and an amazing roof terrace with spectacular views across Newport.

For more information about Potters menus and entertainment call 01633 223311 or email info@potterspub.co.uk.

To keep up-to-date with the latest news, offers and entertainment, simply like the Potters Facebook page.

Alternatively, visit www.potterspub.co.uk

22-24 Upper Dock Street NEWPORT South Wales NP20 1DL Tel: 01633 223311

Come & see the new look Potters Purveyors of no-nonsense, tasty pub grub Good Food • Good drinks • Good friends • Good times

June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue 9

Gazette & Diary Magazine

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10 June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue

SUMMER Fine Dining

Chefs line up for food festival Jose Pizarro

Cyrus Todiwala

Monica Galetti

Jane Baxter

T

HE headline chefs who will appearing at this year’s Abergavenny Food Festival on September 17 and 18 have been announced.

They include Monica Galetti, Jose Pizarro, Cyrus Todiwala and Jane Baxter.

Monica Galetti will be a the Borough Theatre on the evening of Friday, September 16 to talk exclusively to food critic William Sitwell about her new cookbook ‘The Skills’.

Senior sous chef at two Michelin star Le Gavroche until 2015, Monica is now a MasterChef: The Professionals presenter and has published several successful cookbooks.

On Saturday, September 17 critically acclaimed chef, José Pizarro offers a masterclass in Spanish cooking. Using recipes from his new book ‘Basque’, he will share culinary secrets for pintxos plates so that you’ll never be intimidated by Spanish cooking again.

José has worked for some of London’s most prestigious Spanish restaurants. In 2011 he opened his first solo venture ‘José’ and later that year ‘Pizarro’ a few yards away. He has appeared on BBC1’s Saturday Kitchen, Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch and most recently on the newly launched,

The Wine Show.

Also on the Saturday popular chef and restaurateur Cyrus Todiwala will be demonstrating how to get 120 recipes out of just 10 spices using recipes from his new book ‘Mr Todiwala’s Spice Box.’ Cyrus Todiwala is the author of five phenomenally successful cookbooks, Cafe Spice Namaste, International Cuisine India, Indian Summer, The Incredible Spicemen and Mr Todiwala’s Bombay: Recipes and Memories of India. Dubbed the UK’s best Indian chef, Cyrus has regularly featured on BBC’s Saturday Kitchen and BBC Radio 4 Food programme.

On Sunday September 18 festival favourite and founder of Riverford Field Kitchen, Jane Baxter, will be offering a taste of her new cookbook, ‘Leon Happy Salads’.

Jane is a chef, food writer and regular columnist for Cook. She trained at the Carved Angel under Joyce Molyneux before moving to the River Cafe. In 2005 she set up the acclaimed Riverford Field Kitchen and currently runs food event company, Wild Artichokes based in Devon.

For more information and tickets go to www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com

Sunday 19th June, 17th July and the 7th August

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01495 302227 kahve-cafe@hotmail.co .uk EVI, Church Street, Ebbw Vale, NF23 6BE

June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue 11

Gazette & Diary Magazine

In with the GIN crowd THANKS to the current gin craze, there's a vast array of infusions to coax you into a juniper journey of gin and tonic or martini to celebrate World Gin Day on June 11.

A distilled spirit flavoured with juniper berries, botanicals and herbs, the recipe can be as free-spirited as the gin maker, produced anywhere in the world - London dry is a generic term for unsweetened dry gin - and, most importantly, reward us with an instant lift and leave you pining for more.

Here are some hand-picked gins worth foraging for...

HOLD YOUR HORSES Highwayman Gin (£39, 40% abv, 70cl, store.claptoncraft.co.uk) Launched last year by Vestal Vodka, Highwayman is a small batch gin made from Vestal vodka's cream base and infused with juniper, coriander and angelica root. Only 12 bottles are made a day at the distillery in Kentish Town to create the distinctive creamy palate with a refreshing citrus top note and floral sweetness.

FRENCH FANCY Waitrose cites gin as its bestselling spirit with "shoppers always looking for new gin flavours and distilleries to explore". Try Audemus Pink Pepper Gin (£40, 44% abv, 70cl, Waitrose) from Cognac in France, which is "proving really popular at the moment". The juniper, Spanish pink peppercorns and lesser spices are distilled separately to create the concentrated aromatics and the peppercorns are dominant on the palate with classic juniper and spice in the background.

The New Court Hotel 62 Maryport Street- Usk - NP15 1AD Tel. 01291 671319 • www.thenewcourthotel.co.uk

Our establishment has been rated 4 star by Visit Wales If you’re enjoying a walking holiday or golf weekend in Wales. You’ll find the lovingly restored The New Court Inn nestling quietly in the gentle Monmouthshire hills, just along the lazy banks of the River Usk. Open all day every day from 12 noon, The New Court Inn is the perfect place to linger during your visit.

Passionate about food, we source fresh, high quality local ingredients wherever possible. Not just lovers of great local produce, we also appreciate a drop of the ‘good stuff’ and as a Cask Marque accredited establishment, we have a wide range of real ales & ciders. We also have a list of over 40 varieties of wines. Whatever your tastes, you will find something to enjoy relaxing in the bar or dining in the restaurant.

Thinking of staying a little longer? Our newly refurbished en-suite double and king size rooms are very well appointed and amazingly comfortable, ensuring you have a great experience throughout your stay.

So whether you are staying over night or just stopping by, we look forward to welcoming you.

@TheNewCourtUsk

The New Court Hotel

12 June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue

BLONDE AMBITION A Scottish gin that can be enjoyed neat over ice, Daffy's Gin (£28.79 from £35.99 until June 8, 43.4% abv, 70cl, Waitrose) scooped a Gold at the IWSC (International Wine & Spirit Competition) last year and it has a creamy, complex character with no shortage of citrus, spice and juniper. Botanicals include Lebanese mint and it's smooth and well rounded.

BALANCING ACT Bright and citrusy with a herbal finish, the team behind Pickering's Gin (£27.95, 42% abv, 70cl, www.31dover.com) created this spirit from an old Bombay recipe and foraged for some new ingredients to create the perfect balance. Using nine botanicals, there's a zesty, lemon, juniper character with hints of coriander, cardamom and cloves, anise and fennel.

NORTHERN ACCENT Most famous for its bitter, the Yorkshire moors provide the bilberries, sweet hawthorne berries and spicy bog myrtle for Whittaker's Gin (£31.95, 42% abv, 70cl, www.31dover.com). Aromatic and fresh, delicate floral notes run throughout this Yorkshire gin with coriander, juniper and traces of cream and rose petals on the finish.

FAMILY FAVOURITE Foxdenton The Original 48 London Dry Gin (£29.50, 48% abv, 70cl, mainland UK only, www.foxdentonestate.co.uk) has a higher bottle strength than most and masks the alcohol well. Excellent in a martini, it's rich and full of flavour with a creamy smoothness. Beyond the juniper there are herbs, coriander and spice, and lemon and lime contribute to the bright, fresh finish.

SUMMER Fine Dining

H

E might be known for his rare-breed pigs, but entomologist-turned-farmer Jimmy Doherty's latest initiative lets their veggie sidekick - the humble potato - do the talking.

"The Jersey Royal is an iconic food item and something we should celebrate," the 40year-old enthuses of his collaboration with the seasonal spud. "If the Italians or French had this, they would be going on about it all the time."

Since taking on a 100-acre farm more than 10 years ago, which was famously documented in BBC Two series Jimmy's Farm, Doherty has made a name for himself in the world of TV, appearing in shows including Food Unwrapped and Jamie and Jimmy's Friday Night Feast, with childhood friend Jamie Oliver.

Add to that three books and a number of free-range food products, and it stands to reason that he's the ideal patron to champion the unique Jersey crop - or as he dubs it, "the champagne of potatoes".

"As a kid, having Jersey Royals with your spring lamb was pretty important," he muses. "I'm a big believer in seasonality."

Available until the end of June, Jersey Royals' Protected Designation of Origin status means its five-generational farmers use 130-year-old techniques to ensure their nutty flavour, creamy consistency and flaky skins.

Delivered to supermarkets within 48 hours of being gathered up, the TV foodie is also a firm believer that these potatoes - and other varieties - should be a diet staple.

"We forget potatoes are full of vitamin C, antioxidants and fibre, and we're moving to other carbohydrates like rice and pasta," he says. "We should go back to eating lots of potatoes."It's about portion control, that's all," he adds.

When he's not running the land, the star feels lucky to be dipping his toe in the world of showbiz - and even luckier, on occasion, to be doing so with good pal Oliver.

"We muck around and get told off because we talk rubbish," he reveals of his time filming Jamie And Jimmy's Friday Night Feast. "We've never grown up, but it's fun."

'I'm a big believer in seasonality'

Next up, he's pleased to be hosting a show that will see him travel to all corners of the globe, in search of people who've swapped the rat race for the wilderness - a concept that takes him back to the topic of sustainability.

"Without food producers and regular supply in our supermarkets, where would we be?"

Try your hand at Doherty's family-friendly recipe, specifically created for the iconic Jersey Royal...

SAUSAGE AND JERSEY ROYAL B A KE (Serves 4)

into quarters w potatoes, ely chopped ne l ya Ro y rse Je 2 cloves garlic, fin 600g cut in d an s, roughly d) ve ele lea pe ge ot sa 10 large scrubbed (n chopped half lengthways oes ages 200g cherry tomat 8 large herb saus s gu l ra oi pa as ive ol 0g p 15 2tbs t egar ion, peeled and cu 2tbsp balsamic vin 1 medium red on es dg lt sa we a 8 Se into black pepper seeded in quarCoarsely ground 1/2 red pepper, de ustard to serve d usty bread an m Cr ters t cu d an deseeded 1 yellow pepper, into 200C/180C fan. n of salted water for eight to 10 m Preheat the oven m pa iu ed m a in ls ya Cook the Jersey Ro . er poons of olive oil utes until just tend a large roasting tin with two tables to Add the sausages g ininutes. with the remainin and roast for 10 m ast to the roasting tin ro d d ad an d er an th ls, ge ya to Ro paragus. Mix as d Drain the Jersey s, an s ge oe ed at e m th to ng the sed around gredients, excludi e slightly carameli ar es bl ta ge ve til for 25 minutes un rther 10 and roast for a fu stir occasionally. paragus, mix well as d an s oe h. at m ug to ro Scatter over the en and cooked th sausages are gold rd. minutes until the ta us m d usty bread an Serve hot with cr

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June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue 13

Gazette DiaryMagazine Magazine & Diary Gazetteand

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01874 711137 | 07720 859621 June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue 15

T

he summer exam season is upon us and parents might think their primary role is to keep their teenagers wellfed and rested.

But as well as such practical help, positive psychology and emotional support is a key part of keeping the whole household calm and stress-free during the exam period, says happiness expert Andy Cope.

"As we enter the silly season, when kids get stressed about exams, teachers get stressed about kids not living up to expectations and parents get stressed trying not to nag too much about revision, it's important to stay calm and positive," he points out.

He promises the following tips can help the whole family sail through the exam period.

The 8:1 ratio

Taking the stress out of exams HABERDASHERS’ AGINCOURT SCHOOL & NURSERY Boys and Girls 3 - 7

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An attitude that equates success with hard work can lead to nagging, punishment and pointing out what's wrong, says Cope. As a result, kids learn to stick to what they know to be safe which leads to a fixed mindset - for example, 'I'm rubbish at maths. I'll never be able to learn it'.

But Cope says positive reinforcement can avoid such a mindset. "One of the most effective things a teacher or parent can do is use a positivity/negativity ratio of about 8:1," he advises.

"It may seem a lot and it can be difficult to get it right, but catch your child doing things well. Notice the little things and tell them. And mean it."

Celebrate better

Parents need to be 'active constructive', says Cope, by celebrating success with genuine enthusiasm.

enquiries@agincourtschool.org

www.habs-monmouth.org 16 June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue

Praise effort rather than talent

Positive psychology advice is that if your child accomplishes something, don't say, 'Well done, you're a genius', but rather 'You put the effort in and got the reward'.

Never pay for exam results

Cope acknowledges it's tempting to give cash for results, but warns: "What you're effectively saying is studying is horrible and you appreciate that your child will only do it for money.

"You're teaching them, albeit innocently and subconsciously, that learning is a chore."

He suggests parents should instead suggest a family day out as a reward for hard work.

Seven-second hug

The average hug lasts just over two seconds, says Cope, but if you hang on for a full seven seconds, "oodles of nice warm chemicals flow around both bodies and the love is transferred".

But Cope adds the wry advice: "Don't count out loud while you're doing the seven-second hug as it tends to spoil the effect.

"But they're lovely and they do help you stay calm."

GAMES CENTRAL

T

HE heroes in a half-shell are back, coinciding nicely with this month's film release in a narratively unrelated third-person action game that puts you in control of all four of New York's crime-fighting turtles.

You must protect The Big Apple from aliens, mutants and the fearsome Foot Clan in either a single-player campaign or partnered with up to three friends in fantastic four-player online co-operative play. But be prepared - defeating Bebop, Rocksteady, Shredder and other iconic bosses won't be easy. The open-world action is super fast-paced, and the teambased brawling challenges gamers to

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants In Manhattan Platform: PS4 Genre: Action Price: £31.99

Monmouth 01600 713970

"I'm not suggesting an over-the-top punching of the air celebration for every smidgeon of good news, but a raising of your levels of enthusiasm.

"Your active constructive response means they know you're proud. The result is that everyone feels great and your child will want to repeat that behaviour."

draw upon each turtles distinctive combat play styles to create some of the craziest fighting combos you'll have seen in some time.

Gorgeous, cel-shaded art design acts as the perfect comic book-style backdrop for the original storyline, which delivers wave after wave of quirky turtle quips to keep you smiling while the enemies keep rolling in. It may not be the deepest of games, but the combat mechanics have been brilliantlybalancedalongside impressive world traversal techniques using the environment around you, and anyone with just a smidgen of love for the reptilian quartet should snap this up now.

Education Matters

Celebrate strengths

Too much love and encouragement gives children an inflated idea of what they can do, warns Cope, yet too little means they may be crippled emotionally.

"A lot of people beat themselves up about what they're not good at to the point that it stops them celebrating what they are good at," he says.

"Be a strengths spotter."

Happy NOW!

"You can provide a silent room and a revision timetable for kids, but they still won't revise unless they want to," Cope points out.

"Getting kids happy now is the key.

Rather than waiting to be happy if they get good results in August, if you create an environment where kids feel valued, happy and positive, with high self-esteem, it's the starting point to good exam results.

"Getting them to revise because they want to rather than because they have to is a massive deal, and telling them how proud you are of the effort they're making is an important part of that."

The teacher’s verdict

Secondary school teacher Kiri Tunks, junior vice-president of the National Union of Teachers (NUT), agrees that positive psychology is an important part of exam success, although she points out that other, practical steps are also important.

"The temptation is to pile on the guilt and put pressure on teenagers at exam time," she says.

REVISION TIPS ● Don't cram and don't pani d about revision c. , an d R emember there timetable it for are second the time of day you chances if your work best. results are bad. ● If you feel ● Revise with ov er whelmed, talk other people w to a hen teacher, parent possible. or friend, or co nt act an organisatio ● Include tim n like Childline. e to relax and exercise ● For help w in your revision ith exam stress timetable. , contact Childlin ● Remember e on 0800 111 that sleeping, ea 1, or tin g visit Tiny.cc/ch well and gettin ildlineexamstre g fresh air "fee ss d the brain". ● Be organise

"But try to have a more positive conversation about exams, help them without being 'on' them the whole time, make sure they're taking rest breaks and reassure them if something's going wrong.

"There's no point trying to revise if you're in a panic. Take them out for lunch and get them into a more positive mental state, and maybe communicate with the school and find out what they need to do, as they may be panicking about unnecessary things."

Hereford Sixth Form College Wins National Award Hereford Sixth Form College has won the Sixth Form College of the Year award at the TES FE Awards.

Stephen Exley, Assistant Editor of the TES said, “Hereford Sixth Form College was chosen as the inaugural winner of this new award, in recognition of its i nnovative provision and impressive student outcomes.”

“The College’s Alps score (a national value added measure) puts it in the top 5% of all schools and colleges in the system. The proportion of A*-B grades per A-level entry is 60% – the best for non-selective sixth form colleges nationally. Taken together with the College’s focus on supporting and stretching all students, the judges agreed that this made Hereford an all-round outstanding place to study.”

In his submission, Principal Dr Jonathan Godfrey said: “I am incredibly proud of the commitment shown by

staff and students and it was for them I applied for the award.”

The judges said Hereford was “a worthy winner in what was a very strong field”, highlighting the College’s diverse enrichment programme and wide range of innovative teaching strategies.

Its victory was witnessed by over 600 people gathered to celebrate the s ector’s achievements at the prestigious awards ceremony held at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London, on Friday 22 April, hosted by comedian Shappi Khorsandi.

Now in their fifth year, the TES FE Awards recognise and reward the achievements of the wide range of colleges working in learning and skills.

Hundreds of FE providers submitted entries for the 14 categories, which recognise achievement in employer engagement, innovation in teaching, leadership and entrepreneurship.

Pictured L-R: Shappi Khorsandi, Jonathan Godfrey (Principal), Peter Cooper (Deputy Principal), Eddie Playfair (Chair of the Sixth Form Colleges Association

Hereford Sixth Form College Folly Lane Hereford HR1 1LU T: 01432 355166 E: sixth-form@hereford.ac.uk www.hereford.ac.uk

June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue 17

Gazette & Diary Magazine

BEST OF THE BUNCH Rhododendron

THESE gorgeous shrubs with blousy blooms can grow into giants that look stunning in larger gardens, but you can also get dwarf rhododendrons which are not only compact, but extremely hardy. Check the label to see how big the plant's going to get before buying. Hardy hybrid evergreen rhododendrons come in a variety of colours, but the best known include 'Britannia', which has scarlet flowers on plants which grow to 2.2m, and 'Pink Pearl', which grows 4m x 4m and bears bright pink flowers. Rhododendrons like well-drained, humus-rich acid soil in dappled shade, although they will withstand full sun for part of the day in a spot where the soil stays moist in summer. If you grow any of the smaller types in pots, use ericaceous compost.

I

N his Hampshire garden, green-fingered guru Alan Titchmarsh has swathes of butterfly and bee-friendly plants - from buddleia and verbena to catmint, cosmos and coneflower.

He has created wildflower meadows, a wildlife pond frequented by dragonflies and damselflies and, as vice president of the charity Butterfly Conservation, bangs the drum for beneficial insects.

Spearheading the charity's Plant Pots for Pollinators campaign, he explains: "One carefully planted, well-positioned pot or container can make a huge difference to butterflies, moths, bees and pollinating insects that need nectar to fuel their work."

The project is encouraging householders to plant a pot with nectar sources such as Shasta daisy, oregano and catmint.

His own private plot may seem to be on a grand scale compared to most of ours,

yet anyone can do their bit for pollination with a patio pot full of suitable specimens, he says.

"This country is an enormous patchwork quilt and if everybody looked after their little square, tiny as it is, we can make an enormous difference."

So, what sort of plants should we be choosing?

"You should be looking at single flowers with decent nectaries (nectar-producing tissue)," he advises. "The big double ones tend to have replaced their nectaries which bees love - and their pollen with more petals so they are less useful.

"Daisy-type flowers with a middle are good, but also things like lavender. There are oodles of plants that bees and butterflies love and it's just a case of doing your homework and finding out which ones you like.

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18 June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue

TGROEENETRHE HSIDE Up to £100 off all core range e law wnmowers before 31 July 2016 when you trade in your old equipment for a new Honda.

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O f f e r s av a i l a b l e a c r o s s t h e r a n g e

GREEN Fingers "I don't have a lot of double flowers in my garden, apart from one or two doubleflowered climbing roses on the wall."

Colour combinations in pots can create a wonderful impact on patios and beyond, he continues.

"Purple and yellow are always good, or blue and white work well. If you look at the colour wheel, opposite colours work well together.

"I'd certainly go for lavender in the middle, which bees would love, and osteospermums around the edge of it.

"Purple and yellow? I'd go for yellow bidens round the edge and perhaps purple petunias in the middle."

Those who prefer permanent plantings in patio pots also have a wealth of choice.

Lavender will last a few years in a pot before it goes woody, while perennial coneflowers should also return year after year.

"There are some great varieties of choisya - Mexican orange blossom - which you could plant in a really large pot. They have fabulous white-scented flowers that bees love," he suggests.

As a nursery site for egg-laying, the foliage is as important as the flowers.

"Every butterfly has its own preferred plants. The holly blue lays its legs on ivy, while on nettles, you'll get painted ladies, small tortoiseshells, red admirals and peacocks. Grasses are a great host for butterflies," he advises.

Use a John Innes mix of compost, preferably No 2, if you are planting a permanent container, because it's less likely to shrink than multi-purpose compost if it gets dry.

"And remember your front gardens too.

You can bring colour and life to your doorstep with a pot for pollinators. Per-

GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT - Celery

suade your neighbours to do the same and the street where you live could become a flowery super highway for butter-

More Titchmarsh tips

● Position your pot in a sunny sheltered

location to promote healthy plant growth and attract butterflies. ● Water your pot regularly, ideally from a water butt (as this is more environmentally friendly). Frequent watering prevents plants from drying out during hot weather and helps flowers to produce more nectar. ● Water the soil not the plant as larger leaves can act as an umbrella which prevents water from getting to the roots.

Remove the rose from your watering can to get nearer the plant base if necessary. ● Sprinkle some pebbles around the surface of the soil - this will help prevent

flies and moths, helping them move through built-up areas to find suitable breeding habitat." water evaporation from your pot and also suppress weed growth. ● Get creative with your containers and transform tins, tubs and buckets into plant pots. Don't forget to drill drainage holes in the bottom to prevent waterlogging. ● Dead-heading after flowering keeps plants looking attractive and encourages more blooms. ● Avoid using harmful pesticides by removing slugs and snails by hand instead.

Night is the best time to catch them ● The Butterfly Conservation scheme runs throughout the summer.

To take part go to www.plantpotsforpollinators.org

IF you forgot to sow celery seeds last month, you can still buy plants from garden centres, which can be planted out now, after preparing soil and raking in a general fertiliser.

Celery prefers an open site with a fertile soil which holds moisture well. If you have acid soil, you'll need to add lime to raise the pH to neutral. Plant celery plants in blocks, with plants 23cm apart each way. They will need regular watering and can never be allowed to dry out, plus occasional feeding with a high nitrogen fertiliser. Self-blanching varieties are less likely to bolt than old-fashioned trench varieties, but will need protecting from late frosts.

You should be able to start harvesting celery on the outside of the block first, from August onwards. Tuck straw between the remaining plants to enhance blanching, as exposure to light will turn stems green. Probably the most reliable variety is 'Victoria'.

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www.supalitesouthwales.co.uk 20 June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue

Golden Years

Delicious NEW summer menu from Wiltshire Farm Foods is here A

S the days get warmer and the evenings lighter, we’ve put together a NEW collection of seasonal recipes to get you feeling summery.

Using only quality ingredients, the new collection is the perfect complement to the great British summer.

Filled with light and vibrant flavours, dishes such as our Mediterranean Fish

SUMMER DELIGHT: Blackcurrant & Clotted Cream Ice Cream and, right, Lamb Tagine

Casserole, Lamb Tagine and Barbecue Pulled Pork are perfect for those warm al fresco evenings. For afters why not try our gorgeous Pineapple Upside Down Pudding topped with a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce or a cooling Blackcurrant & Clotted Cream Ice Cream!

The new Summer Menu Pack features seven meals and three desserts for just £29.95. Plus you’ll receive a FREE large cake of your choice!

We hope you’ll enjoy it as much as us!

Meals are delivered FREE of charge and direct to your door by our caring, policechecked drivers and if you wish, your driver will even pop the meals in the freezer for you. Simply heat your meal from frozen in an oven or microwave and enjoy!

Brian and Sara and their award winning team at your local Wiltshire Farm Foods have earned a reputation for delivering quality meals and outstanding customer service.

Give the team a call on 01600 892855 – they’ll be happy to take your order or answer any questions you may have. They can also arrange to send you your own copy of the free full colour Spring & Summer 2016 brochure.

HOW CAN WE HELP? The award-winning local team at Wiltshire Farm Foods

Our u NEW N season nall menu for the great British summer ummer Summer Menu Pack only £29.95

* FREE Large Cake of your choice

7 Main Courses with vegetables: • Barbecue Pulled Pork • Chicken & Chorizo Casserole o • Chicken with Tomato & Basil Sauce • Mediterranean Fish Casserole • Lamb Tagine • Chicken & Spring Vegetable e Casserole • Cumberland Sausages 3 Desserts: • Black kcurrant & Clotted Cream Ice Cream • Lemon Sponge • Pin neapple Upside Down Cake

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Summer is absolutely my favourite time of the yearr, I just love sitting out in the garden on those warm sunny evenings. nings. And this year, mealtimes are a bree eze as I’ve just ordered the e Summer Menu Pack from Wiltshire Farm Foods. oods Our Head Chef Phil and his team h have put together a delicious new range that really captures the essence of summer.

W Wiltshire Farm Foods, you can choose from ov With ver 300 ready m meals, each made with tasty ingredients that are q quick-frozen to lo ock the goodness in. It’s all available no-contract, no-commitment a with free delivery. Heaven! and To order the new Summer Menu Pack call

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June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue 21

Gazette & Diary Magazine

Life begins ... at 50!

FIFTY is the new 30 - or so the celebs would have us believe, so what do Madonna, Barack Obama, Simon Cowell and Carol Vorderman all have in common? They're all in their 50s - and having the time of their lives.

VORDERS, rocking her blonde locks, is gearing up to fly solo around the world this summer, Obama's been dancing with Stormtroopers, Cowell's totally loved up with his "funny" toddler son Eric, and 'Her Madgesty' made the point that you can still be sexy at 57, with her revealing outfit at the Met Gala.

This might fly in the face of some 'traditional' views of ageing. But a US study found people were more satisfied with their lives in their 50s, with relationships and finances generally in a much better place - and they felt wiser and more balanced than ever, while benefiting from more free time to spend with romantic other halves and to learn new things.

We're not suggesting you buy your own plane and go out with your posterior wrapped in nothing more than a little lace, but there are still plenty of ways to put the fun back into your 50s...

BOOK THAT DREAM HOLIDAY Always imagined sunning yourself on a beach in Goa? Goa for it! The health and wellbeing benefits of getting away from it all, particularly somewhere sunny, are well known and you might come back with a completely

TAKE UP A NEW HOBBY If you've always fancied yourself as a frustrated guitar hero/carpenter florist/portraitist, you should have more time to crack it in your 50s. It takes around 10,000 hours of practice to become an expert, so what are you waiting for?

different outlook on life, as well as a sun tan.

GET A NEW DO Vorderman Carol wowed us all when she revealed her new blonde look last summer. She might tell you it's to cover the grey hairs, but who cares? She nailed it - and don't blondes have more fun?

GO TO A FESTIVAL Always been curious about the annual pilgrimage to fields around the country to listen to music? Get yourself a ticket for some of the most family friendly chillaxed festival around. See page 4.

GO DATING Fiftysomething and single? If you've been tied down all your life, now's the time to get out there and enjoy the thrill of the chase. With a little more money to spend on dressing up and fancy restaurants, and a better understanding of who you are and what you FUN IN THEIR FIFTIES: want in a partner, there's Carol Voderman, Barack never been a better time Obama and Simon Cowell to look for love.

This is Sarah. She’s busy cleaning her oven...

FEEL THE FEAR Bungee jumping, flying, odd socks: there are plenty of things that give us the chills. But imagine the buzz of seizing the day. Do something daring!

RECONNECT As you grow older, it's important to be reminded of who you were when you were younger - and, you know, the night when you were so blotto, you danced on the bar ...

SPEAK UP In our early-20s, we all thought we were going to change the world, right? Then life got in the way.

Time to stand up for what you believe in, whether that's joining a political party, or your local neighbourhood litterpicking collective.

SLEEP UNDER THE STARS Never done it, or not done it since you were knee-high to a grasshopper? Get outside on a balmy summer night with someone special, and make yourself MAKE LIKE MADGE? feel really small in Madonna shows a the grand scheme leg at the Met Gala of the universe.

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IAMOND Home Support opened an office in Abergavenny in 2014 and we’re bringing back the Home

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Due to Local Authority budget cuts many elderly and disabled people now have to find their own domestic support.

Our Home Assist Service provides vital support for the elderly and less able in a friendly, caring and professional manner.

We aim to challenge the preconceptions of domestic care by providing a client-led rather than a company-led service.

All of our workers are thoroughly vetted and are chosen more for their personality, ethos and attitude than anything else.

They are given plenty of time between appointments, so there is never the need for visits to be cut short in order for the worker to be on time for their next appointment. The same worker visits each week, month or fortnight, allowing the client and the worker to build trust and develop a relationship.

Loss of independence can be humiliating and frustrating, and we therefore aim to make the experience as friendly and personal as possible. We visit all potential clients in their own homes so that we can talk them through the service, explain exactly how things work and answer any questions which they may have.

Relatives need not be concerned that their family members will be pushed into signing up for our services if they are unsure as to whether or not it is right for them.

We respect the fact that each individual, however old, frail or disabled, has the right to consider the pros and cons of our services before signing on the dotted line and, to this end, we are happy to visit more than once should that be necessary.

We guarantee ongoing support; we are always available to discuss any problems, issues or concerns which may arise and will do our utmost to resolve these in the best way possible.

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June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue 23

WHEELS & DEALS

Smart and practical, Volvo has added eco-kudos to its XC90 SUV with the introduction of a plug-in hybrid version

V

OLVO'S XC90 has been around for a little over a year, but in that time, it's already secured a stack of awards and is proving hugely popular with buyers too. It mixes sensible design with attractive looks and is even more spacious and practical than the old car.

But now the crowing glory of the XC90 range has arrived in the shape of the T8 model. Combining a 2.0-litre petrol engine that is both turbocharged and supercharged, with an electric motor and battery pack makes the T8 a plug-in hybrid, and one that has the potential to deliver some impressive performance and economy figures.

LOOKS AND IMAGE Only the keenest of eyes will be able to distinguish the T8 from its conventional siblings. Chiefly, it is the discreet badges front and rear that are the most obvious changes, but also the additional filler flap on the front wing which gives access to the charging connections. This car then doesn't make a fuss about its capabilities; it is as discreetly handsome as all the other XC90s you can buy.

That's no doubt part of the reason why it holds so much kerb appeal. Where much of the competition has decided that bold or even brash is the way to design a large SUV, the more subtle Volvo approach is welcome.

SPACE AND PRACTICALITY It's not just a pretty face however, as the XC90 is even more of a family wagon than before. Up front there's acres of space, even with the wide transmission tunnel, the second row is comfortable and spacious too while the third row is one of the more useful in the class and is easy to access too. The

24 June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue

boot is useful in seven-seat mode and huge in fiveseat configuration, and plumping for the air suspension means you can raise and lower the rear end for easier loading.

BEHIND THE WHEEL Once installed in that attractive cabin, there's little to tell you that the XC90 T8 has a significantly different powertrain. It has four modes to marshal what's available; hybrid, where the car sorts out the best use of energy for itself, pure which uses electric only, power mode where both petrol engine and electric motor work at the same time to give four-wheel-drive and finally save mode, where the battery's charge is maintained until you choose to use it.

In hybrid mode, the petrol engine is dormant at low speeds and while the battery is charged, but should you prod the accelerator hard enough, it chimes in seamlessly. As with a regular hybrid you can add charge back into the battery by careful use of the brakes, helping it to reach the claimed electric-only range of 27 miles.

On the flip side, in power mode the T8 is something of subtle rocket ship. There's 401bhp avail-

able with both engine and motor combined, enough to propel it to 62mph from rest in only 5.6 seconds. Using it this way means higher fuel consumption of course, but the official NEDC combined figure of 134.5mpg and 49g/km of CO2 means it qualifies for the Government grant.

VALUE FOR MONEY There's no doubt the T8 is a relatively expensive car - ÂŁ60,455 in Momentum guise as tested here - but if it suits the way you need to use your car, it also has the potential to be very cheap to run. The specification is also quite lavish; satellite navigation on the large 9-inch touchscreen, powered leather seats, aluminium trim, 19-inch alloy wheels and a power tailgate to name just a few.

WHO WOULD BUY ONE? If you have almost any combination of kids and adults, the XC90 T8 can cope with it, making it a superb family vehicle. . It's a luxury car for sure, but one that justifies the expense.

This car summed up in a single word: Capable If this car was a stereo, it would be tasteful, capable of incredible sounds, but also smart enough to cut your electricity bills at the same time

Motoring Matters

T

HE majority of drivers would choose politeness over entertainment value when it comes to a digital co-pilot, says new research.

YouGov data from Nuance Communications has shown that in choosing a celebrity character to act as the face for next-generation in-car artificial intelligence, twice as many Brits would choose Stephen Fry as would pick Jeremy Clarkson.

Manufacturers are working on systems that learn driver preferences, like restaurants, eating times, parking locations and car park types, so that when a driver issues a voice command stating a desire to 'eat out at an Italian restaurant tonight', the assistant will have existing parameters with which to set it up.

As well as preferring Fry's educated tones, 60 per cent of the more than 2,000 drivers in the survey said they would want their car to tell them if there is free parking at their destination.

A similar proportion want their car to mention it if they don't have enough fuel to complete the journey.

A tech-savvy 35 per cent would prefer to ditch their car key altogether and have their car recognise them using biometric technology like face or voice recognition.

I

f you've always wanted a Porsche 356 Speedster - and who wouldn't - then it could be your lucky day. The bad news is that the ÂŁ12,000 Pocket Classics version is only for kids.

Built on a 1:2.3 scale, the sublime miniature sits just 1,760mm long and 770mm wide. The company says the stunning reproduction is suitable for children aged 6-12, which, frankly, is a crying shame for the rest of us.

It uses an aluminium and steel chassis, with a hand-laid fibreglass body produced under licence from Porsche AG. "Exceptional" attention to detail includes gold front and rear badges, chrome accents and the correct slotted wheels for the vintage.

The one-person cabin is upholstered in the finest leather, fronted by chrome pedals, a wooden three-spoke steering wheel and three replica instruments displaying engine speed, vehicle speed and remaining fuel.

All three are functionless, though, as the dinky little machine runs on electricity. A 24v DC motor links to two forward gears and one reverse, for a top speed of 12mph with a lightweight driver.

Around three hours of charging from a domestic plug socket will give another three hours of small-scale driving.

The ÂŁ11,995 price tag, which excludes shipping, includes the facility to order a specific colour combination for the paint and leather.

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June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue 25

PRECIOUS PETS

Gazette & Diary Magazine

S

UMMER At last! In my veterinary role I have to focus on the health issues of the season, so in the style of public safety film I ask you to picture a typical back garden scene, barbecue sizzling and the family dog joining in the fun on a particularly warm day.

The most obvious risk in this situation is the heat. Pets cannot regulate their temperature very well - think wearing a fur coat with a wet suit underneath. The increasing popularity of huskies and malamutes with their incredibly thick double coats and pugs and French bulldogs with their exaggerated flattened faces are particularly vulnerable to the effects of temperature.

In my experience these breeds simply do not try to join in and it is the collie and terrier that cannot help but join the back garden football game that get into a dangerous situation with heat stroke. These dogs just do not have the sense to stop, and with very few sweat glands, fur coat

and desire to please, you have to ensure they do not get too hot.

The barbecue is another common cause of problems because we see a high number of dogs and cats who eat the leftovers and come down with gastro-enteritis. Socalled “garbage guts” is mostly the effect of stolen or leftover food and results in the obvious symptoms of purging.

A couple of days bland, frequent, small meals of chicken and rice resolve most cases but it is the lamb bone and corn cob that have lodged in the stomach that catch us out, as the symptoms are initially the same but the risk to health far greater.

Enjoy the summer, especially enjoy the longer days and opportunities to exercise and spend time with your pets. Please, be a responsible owner when it comes heat and never, just never, risk leaving them in the car at this time of year. Even if it means them staying at home it is just not worth the risk.

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Pets in the modern family Humans have kept pets for longer than you might expect – our best friend, the dog, was first domesticated 33,000 years ago. Today, almost half of all UK households (around 12 million) have pets, with a pet population of around 58 million, according to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association's Pet Population Report

T

YPICALLY, there are five reasons why people tend to own pets," says Professor Lance Workman, a psychologist from the University of South Wales whose previous research has explored different aspects of animal behaviour.

"A source of comfort comes high on the list, along with the fact that pets are aesthetically pleasing.

"They are also a valuable means of social interaction – if you have a pet, people are more likely to visit you, or to talk to you in public, and past research has revealed that more than half of the British public think that dog owners are friendlier than non-dog owners.

"The final reasons are security and as a status symbol. To my mind, the latter is not the best reason to keep a pet but people do."

Certainly research from Pets at Home discovered that keeping a pet increases your chances of happiness during childhood – particularly if you choose a dog.

Of the 2,438 respondents who had owned both a cat and a dog, 65 per centclaimed that dogs had brought them most happiness overall, and more than half believed that dogs had brought them the most happiness as a child.

In Pets at Home’s survey children younger than five are being given responsibility for the day-to-day care of pets, with the average age being 7.5 – a year younger than their parents. Interestingly, responsibility for a pet is seldom taken on during the teenage years – perhaps that teenagers really do have too many other distractions!

"I firmly believe that pets provide an invaluable taster for adult life," says Professor Workman. "If you care for a pet, this helps you to develop compassion, and to realise that you have a responsibility towards others. And later on in life, we can transfer those skills to our relationships with friends and partners." www.petsathome.com

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Wood treatment is a hot topic, and one local, family run company is telling you about their procedures of effectively treating and selling timber for fencing.

Woodland Services, based on Hereford Road, Abergavenny, has been trading for over 50 years with the current owners entering their fourth year in the business and are ensuring the quality continues.

They specialise in providing quality, locally sourced and appropriately treated wood for both agricultural and domestic use, and pride themselves on their endeavour to bring their treatment process as up to date as possible with a lot of money invested into their programme for machinery and tools.

Tracey O’Leary from Woodland Services said, “Before we treat our timber in house in our fully upgraded, computerised treatment plant we ensure that the wood is dried to 28% or less moisture content. It is then pressure treated soil or fresh water contact using Koppers Celcure AC500 – giving it a 15

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year life. This whole process is computer linked and closely monitored by our treatment suppliers Koppers who support the projected 15 year life of the product.

“Even though certain chemicals have been removed from the treatment solution by EU legislation in the past, this means that it is very important that the wood is dried to 28% or less moisture content then the penetration and the treatment will be as effective as it was prior to the change, and here at Woodland Services we ensure this procedure is adhered to.”

Tracey has spoken about her experience with peoples concerned about the treatment of wood, and wants to let the people of the local area know that at Woodland Services they can get properly treated wood from them for a great price. A high percentage of our business is repeat business which makes it even more important that we maintain the quality of our treatment process.

Tracey said, “I go to market on

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Wednesdays and I hear a lot of peoples concerns about timber treatment, so we wanted to show that we have put a lot of time, money and expertise into our treatment programme and assure people that our service is safe and effective.”

They also put a lot of emphasis on locally sourcing their timber that they prepare and treat, to go back to the local community.

Tracey said, “When dealing with natural resources, it is important to stay as local as you can, and by using local businesses in our supply chain it benefits the whole community.”

So to find out more about their work, contact Woodland Services (Abergavenny) Ltd on 01873 855431 or email Tracey on tracey@woodland-sa.co.uk.

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TELEPHONE 01873 830204 Fernybank, Quarry Road, Clydach, Nr Abergavenny June/July 2016 - The Summer Issue 27

Serene nestia al Anttur Trwy Ofo od ac c Amserr Adv Ad dve en ntture e thro ou ug gh h Time e and nd Spac ce gan / by Catrin Finch

Nos Fa awrth/Tuesday, 02.08.16 20.00 @ Y Pafiliwn / The Pavilion

Artistiaid / Artists: Catrin Finch Ballett Cymru Elin Manahan-Thomas Charllie Lovell-Jones Nidu um Ensemble

Adroddwr / Narrator: Sara Lloy yd d- Gregory Barddoniaeth / Poetry: Eurig Salisbury

To ocynnau / Tickets

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