South Hams Lifestyle Dec 2023 - Jan 2024
Our last edition of 2023 is here, with lots of festive and New Year content to enjoy over the Christmas period. We've got wonderful competitions, delicious recipes, winter garden advice and a kitchen transformation to inspire you.
Our last edition of 2023 is here, with lots of festive and New Year content to enjoy over the Christmas period. We've got wonderful competitions, delicious recipes, winter garden advice and a kitchen transformation to inspire you.
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menu of Devon<br />
Handmade Meals<br />
• Frozen for freshness & convenience<br />
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HOMES IN SOUTH DEVON<br />
Visit our website or call us to find out more information<br />
about our menu and delivery options in <strong>South</strong> Devon
C O N T E N T S<br />
A NOTE<br />
from the editor<br />
18 21<br />
INTERIOR HOME FOR UPDATES XMAS<br />
Editor Katie Thomson<br />
e katie@minervapublications.co.uk<br />
Assistant Editor Kate Norris<br />
Publisher Sally Thomson<br />
Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose<br />
Contributors<br />
Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave,<br />
Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence<br />
JACK KITCHEN STEIN RENOVATION<br />
INTERVIEW & RECIPE<br />
22 16<br />
FOR ADVERTISING<br />
Account Manager Adrian Hill<br />
e adrian.hill@minervapublications.co.uk<br />
t 01225 984496<br />
04<br />
COMPETITIONS<br />
10 27<br />
PLANTS FOR POLLINATORS<br />
GIFT GUIDE<br />
MINERVA PUBLICATIONS<br />
Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm,<br />
Hilperton BA14 6JB<br />
t 01225 984 550<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk<br />
Printed on sustainably sourced paper.<br />
Please recycle this copy or pass it along<br />
when you are finished for someone else<br />
to enjoy.<br />
Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be<br />
held liable for any loss occasioned by<br />
failure of an advertisement to appear, or<br />
any damage or inconvenience caused by<br />
errors, omissions and misprints. No part of<br />
this publication may be reproduced without<br />
prior permission from the publishers.<br />
The opinions expressed within are not<br />
necessarily those of the publishers.<br />
‘Tis the season to be jolly, and<br />
I our had festive my spirits first are English soaring<br />
strawberry higher than this Santa’s week, sleigh! and my As<br />
word, we gear it was up for beyond the upcoming delicious<br />
- Christmas perfectly festivities, sweet, it was we’re a<br />
very excited good to share advert the for joy eating and<br />
seasonally. merriment with I’ve you. tried to echo<br />
this in all my recent fruit and<br />
vegetable<br />
In the spirit<br />
purchases,<br />
of giving,<br />
and<br />
we’ve<br />
it’s<br />
had<br />
wrapped<br />
a transformative<br />
up some<br />
effect<br />
fantastic<br />
on<br />
my<br />
articles<br />
cooking<br />
for you<br />
- everything<br />
to delve into<br />
just<br />
in the coming weeks. From<br />
tastes better - more vibrant,<br />
delicious Christmas recipes<br />
needing less seasoning and<br />
to gift guides - we’ve got<br />
just overall very tasty.<br />
even the most challenging<br />
person to buy for covered!<br />
I’m making the most of<br />
Let’s not forget our amazing<br />
cooking whilst I still have a<br />
competition guide, with<br />
kitchen - mine is due to be<br />
hundreds of pounds worth of<br />
ripped<br />
prizes to<br />
out<br />
be<br />
in<br />
won.<br />
two weeks and<br />
it will be camping stove and<br />
air<br />
If <strong>2024</strong><br />
frying<br />
sees<br />
for two<br />
you<br />
months<br />
undertaking<br />
from<br />
there! work on I’ve your already home, picked then our my<br />
kitchen, transformation but it got me thinking is sure<br />
about to inspire all the you other - hopefully areas that you<br />
need can take updating some tips, in my tricks home. and If<br />
you design are cues thinking from of this a similar lovely<br />
refresh, space. please check out our<br />
home pages this edition -<br />
they’re As we full bid of inspiring adieu to trends this<br />
and rollercoaster a few timeless of a year, classics. let’s not<br />
forget the lessons it taught us.<br />
We’ve If <strong>2023</strong> also was a got movie, some it’d lovely be a<br />
editorial blockbuster on with the best unexpected plants<br />
for plot pollinators twists and - a finale it’s never that<br />
been left us so eagerly important awaiting to support the<br />
wildlife sequel. in Here’s the garden. to hoping <strong>2024</strong><br />
brings fewer reboots and<br />
The more competition uplifting plot-lines! guide this<br />
issue is a bumper one - we<br />
have Wishing an you outdoor all a furniture festive<br />
set season from filled Bramblecrest with joy, laughter, worth<br />
nearly and the £3,000, warmth plus of loved a cordless ones.<br />
lawnmower May your days worth be £679 merry to and get<br />
that bright. garden in shape. This,<br />
plus a lot more makes it well<br />
worth Thank a you look for and reading an enter! our<br />
magazine - and to our loyal<br />
We advertisers. will be back Together again you in<br />
August<br />
make this<br />
- I’ll<br />
venture<br />
be fully rebooted<br />
possible,<br />
and<br />
and<br />
recharged<br />
I want to<br />
into<br />
give<br />
summer<br />
you all<br />
mode.<br />
a heartfelt<br />
See you<br />
thanks<br />
then!<br />
from the<br />
whole team. Cheers to a<br />
positively sparkling holiday<br />
season and a peaceful Katie and<br />
prosperous <strong>2024</strong>.<br />
Katie<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3
Time<br />
COMPETITION<br />
Find out more about entering our competitions online<br />
at www.minervamagazines/competitions.<br />
All the below close on 15th <strong>Jan</strong>uary <strong>2024</strong> with the exception of<br />
Copas which closes on 10th <strong>Dec</strong>ember<br />
CHRISTMAS HAMPER<br />
WORTH £500<br />
We have the ‘<strong>Dec</strong>adent Christmas in a<br />
Box’ to give away to one lucky reader.<br />
Worth £500, this delicious hamper is<br />
filled with goodies, including a 6kg<br />
free range turkey, 4.5kg unsmoked<br />
ham, 1kg side of salmon, 1kg organic<br />
Cheddar, 1kg Cropwell Bishop Stilton,<br />
Christmas Pudding, Harrow & Hope<br />
Brut Reserve, Pigs in Blankets, a range<br />
of luxury sauces and oils and Copas<br />
Rosemary Gin.<br />
You can see the full Christmas range at<br />
www.copasturkeys.co.uk<br />
Keyword ‘Copas Turkeys’<br />
WIN A CANDY SMART WINE<br />
COOLER WORTH £300<br />
We are offering one lucky reader the<br />
chance to win a smart Candy Wine<br />
Cooler worth over £300. This appliance<br />
helps preserve the natural taste and<br />
smell of your wine, giving you the<br />
experience of a professional wine cellar.<br />
Smart home appliance brand Candy<br />
has partnered with Vivino - when you<br />
connect to the hOn app, you can<br />
enjoy the ‘SNAP MY WINE’ function<br />
- allowing you to keep a record of the<br />
wines in your cooler, helping you pair<br />
wine with different kinds of food.<br />
Keyword ‘Candy Wine Cooler’<br />
BATTERY-POWERED<br />
PRUNERS<br />
STIGA, a world-leading manufacturer<br />
and distributor of gardening machinery<br />
and equipment, announces its firstever<br />
battery-powered pruner, the SC<br />
100e. The SC 100e’s exceptional<br />
performance pruning capability adapts<br />
to the operator’s needs and to the<br />
task at hand. Its high-quality carbon<br />
steel blades are extremely sharp. With<br />
an option to select from three blade<br />
opening settings, this allows the cutting<br />
and trimming of branches up to 3.0 cm<br />
in diameter. We have three of these to<br />
give away! www.stiga.com/uk<br />
Keyword ‘Stiga Pruner’<br />
SOS SUPERSTARS SET<br />
Give the gift of radiant skin this<br />
Christmas with the SOS Serum<br />
Skincare Superstars Beauty Elixir<br />
gift set. Inside there’s a gel-cream<br />
cleanser, hydrating daily moisturiser<br />
with SPF 30, a Night Cream that is<br />
ready to help you regain healthy skin<br />
that positively glows and nourishing<br />
and mattifying lip balm with broad<br />
spectrum SPF 30. We have 4 sets to<br />
give away, comprising SOS Cleanse,<br />
SOS H20 Day Cream SPF 30, SOS<br />
Night Cream, SOS Lip Balm SPF 30,<br />
andEssential Drops Fragrance for the<br />
Home: Pomegranate & Lychee<br />
Keyword ‘SOS Superstars’<br />
A LUXURY LINGERIE SET<br />
Create a storm this winter... New<br />
bra and brief set, Bobette, is both<br />
luxurious and seductive.<br />
Featuring feminine lace and with a<br />
generous cleavage the elastic lace<br />
creates a three dimensional look in an<br />
exciting play of colours.<br />
Choose from the elegant Black or<br />
breath-taking Ruby Red versions.<br />
Available from www.ouhlala.co.uk<br />
Bra - £72, Shorty £33. Fits B-E cup<br />
We have two sets to give away.<br />
Keyword ‘Bobette’<br />
A SMART HEATING KIT<br />
FROM WISER!<br />
Wiser, the award-winning smart<br />
heating system, is giving two lucky<br />
readers the chance to win a home<br />
heating kit worth £299.99, which<br />
includes a Room Thermostat, Heat<br />
Hub and two Radiator Thermostats.<br />
Easy to install, the Wiser heating<br />
system can lower your energy bills by<br />
up to 30% per year. Wiser is available<br />
in classic white or stylish anthracite to<br />
suit your home. To find out how Wiser<br />
can help you save on your energy bills,<br />
head to wiser.draytoncontrols.co.uk<br />
Keyword ‘Wiser Energy’<br />
4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
DEVON CHRISTMAS<br />
TREE FARM CROWNED<br />
CHAMPION GROWERS <strong>2023</strong><br />
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
Dartmoor Christmas Trees has once again<br />
been chosen to supply Downing Street with a<br />
Christmas tree this festive season.<br />
Stuart and Jennie Kirkup have won Champion Christmas Tree<br />
Grower now three times, in 2016, 2019 and <strong>2023</strong>. As a result they<br />
have been asked to supply the tree for outside number 10 this<br />
year.<br />
In this year’s competition, which is run by the British Christmas<br />
Tree Growers Association, Dartmoor Christmas Trees won in<br />
the grower of the year category as well as walking away with<br />
five other awards including Best Norway Spruce, Best Fir Other<br />
Runner Up, Celebrity Choice Tree Winner, Celebrity Choice<br />
Wreath Winner and Best Natural Wreath Runner-Up. Yorkshire Vet<br />
star Peter Wright was also in attendance as a celebrity judge.<br />
Stuart and Jennie who have been growing Christmas Trees in the<br />
heart of Dartmoor for over 20 years have won over 40 industry<br />
awards for their trees.<br />
Stuart attributes their success to their passion about what they<br />
do and their dedication to producing beautiful trees that are local<br />
and sustainable.<br />
Stuart says, ‘We are delighted to be crowned British Christmas<br />
Tree Grower of the Year again, and our thanks go to the British<br />
Christmas Tree Growers Association and all the judges for<br />
choosing us. To be recognised by peers and other growers is<br />
a testament to the hard work and perseverance that goes into<br />
growing the best Christmas trees.’<br />
Dartmoor Christmas Trees have worked in partnership with<br />
Forestry England at Haldon Forest in Exeter for many years and<br />
will once again open their retail centre there this year; where they<br />
boast a huge selection of real Christmas Trees. Whether you<br />
prefer the low drop Nordmann fir or Fraser fir or the traditional<br />
smells and shape of the Norway spruce, they can help you<br />
decide on your perfect Christmas Tree.<br />
Dartmoor Christmas Trees can also be purchased at Morrisons<br />
Paignton & Totnes, or you can book their unique Choose & Cut<br />
service from their farm on Dartmoor.<br />
1<br />
2<br />
3<br />
4<br />
WHERE TO BUY YOUR FRESH CUT AND LOCALLY<br />
GROWN CHRISTMAS TREE THIS CHRISTMAS<br />
4 ways<br />
TO BUY<br />
Available at Haldon<br />
Christmas Tree Centre<br />
Order online for local<br />
delivery<br />
Choose your own tree from<br />
our Dartmoor farm - BOOKING<br />
REQUIRED via website<br />
Available at Paignton and<br />
Totnes Stores<br />
WWW.DARTMOORCHRISTMASTREES.CO.UK<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 5
Christmas at<br />
Occombe Farm<br />
The most wonderful time of the year<br />
is swiftly approaching. Whether<br />
you’re shopping, eating or playing<br />
at Occombe this festive season, we’ve<br />
something for everyone.<br />
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
When it’s all about celebrating with the finest food, drink and<br />
gifts, Occombe Farm Shop has got you covered. Brimming with<br />
extraordinary seasonal products, sourced from the most talented<br />
artisans in our region. Stock up with local cheeses, handmade<br />
pies, wines from across the region, beers, ales and ciders. Devon<br />
made chocolates handmade cakes and mince pies too. Our<br />
collection of gifts, books, toys even tree decorations is unique.<br />
There’s Christmas hampers for the ultimate gift. Crammed with<br />
delightful West Country products. Ready-made or create your<br />
own!<br />
Pick up a real, traditional Christmas tree from Occombe too.<br />
Our locally grown Nordmann firs are sourced from Dartmoor<br />
Christmas Trees and on sale from the beginning of <strong>Dec</strong>ember.<br />
Occombe Farm Café is unveiling our most indulgent afternoon<br />
tea yet! This festive feast features a mix of farm-made savoury<br />
bites and decadent cakes – a must-do-stop-off with friends<br />
during the hustle and bustle of Christmas preparations. Gather<br />
with family, colleagues or your gang on an Occombe Farm festive<br />
supper evening. Choose from a specially created menu for the<br />
ultimate seasonal celebration. Every Friday throughout <strong>Dec</strong>ember<br />
until 15th. Advance booking is a must and parking is free!<br />
Shopping for gifts, joining family for supper or indulging in a<br />
festive afternoon tea at Occombe Farm not only brings joy but<br />
also contributes to the wonderful work of our parent conservation<br />
charity, Torbay Coast & Countryside Trust. Our local charity is<br />
dedicated to conserving Torbay’s most beautiful green spaces,<br />
cherished by all, including gems like Cockington Country Park,<br />
Berry Head National Nature Reserve, and numerous wildlifefriendly<br />
woodlands, meadows, pathways, and bridleways in the<br />
Torbay. Good times that do good!<br />
www.occombe.co.uk www.countryside-trust.org.uk<br />
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.<br />
#occombefarm #torbaycountryside<br />
Christmas<br />
at Occombe<br />
Unique gifts, local products,<br />
delicious food & drink, & Farmer<br />
Christmas Markets. Festive supper<br />
evenings and afternoon teas.<br />
Asparagus<br />
See our website or in-farm for more...<br />
@occombefarm<br />
www.occombe.co.uk<br />
6 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Introducing Paignton Zoo’s biggest ever festive event…<br />
GloWild is an after-dark immersive light experience that will transport you to<br />
a magical world. See Paignton Zoo like you’ve never seen it before, with giant<br />
illuminated animals, light tunnels, a silent disco and much more.<br />
Paignton Zoo is seeing out its centenary year in style with this interactive winter light<br />
extravaganza. GloWild will invite you into another dimension, starting with a giant storybook<br />
that will kick off an adventure around the zoo. Keep your eyes peeled for amazing fibre optics,<br />
kaleidoscopes and illuminated trees, as well as a magical wishing well where you can make all<br />
your Christmas wishes come true. Will you spot the frogs leaping overhead, the gigantic<br />
butterfly, or the colourful chameleon?<br />
Be dazzled by the majestic snow wolf on his journey around this<br />
enchanted light trail, and chat to Paignton Zoo’s founder Herbert<br />
Whitley as he makes an extra-special appearance 100 years since he<br />
first opened the zoo gates. Don’t forget to leave time for a boogie in<br />
the atmospheric silent disco, where you’ll be enchanted by a whole<br />
host of special characters…<br />
Enjoy a mulled wine and a mince pie to fuel your journey<br />
around the zoo in this awe-inspiring experience.<br />
This one-of-a-kind event is running on selected dates from 17th<br />
November to 2nd <strong>Jan</strong>uary, with a special SEN night on 19th<br />
November. Corporate packages and group rates are available.<br />
Booking is essential, so be sure to grab your tickets before they sell<br />
out! Go to paigntonzoo.org.uk to find out more.<br />
GloWild is an after-dark immersive<br />
light experience that will transport<br />
you to a magical world<br />
See Paignton Zoo like you’ve never<br />
seen it before, with giant illuminated<br />
animals, light tunnels, a silent disco<br />
and much more
LOCAL HERO<br />
We talk to businesses in and<br />
around <strong>South</strong> <strong>Hams</strong> who are<br />
passionate about what they do...<br />
JAM ART<br />
GALLERY<br />
Tell us more about Jam<br />
Jam is the art collective of Ashburtonbased<br />
creatives Michael Jones and<br />
Glen Middleham. We’re proud to own a<br />
boutique gallery in the heart of Ashburton<br />
that opened this summer, where we offer<br />
an eclectic selection of prints, nostalgic<br />
dioramas and statement art pieces.<br />
What type of art do you sell?<br />
At Jam, we create art designed to spark<br />
conversation.<br />
Much of Glen’s work is inspired by his<br />
memories of family walks exploring<br />
Dartmoor, growing up by the <strong>South</strong> Devon<br />
coast and enjoying summer holidays in<br />
North Devon. Vintage ephemera from the<br />
region is regularly given a new lease of<br />
life in his collages, using old postcards,<br />
pamphlets, maps and literature.<br />
In contrast, Michael combines traditional<br />
printmaking methods with technology<br />
in his work, drawing inspiration from the<br />
pop art movement, vintage posters and<br />
typography, having trained as a graphic<br />
designer.<br />
Where in Ashburton are you?<br />
The Jam Gallery is on the main street in<br />
Ashburton at 18 North Street – we’re just<br />
a two-minute walk from the town’s car<br />
park, diagonally opposite the Town Hall.<br />
How can I find out more?<br />
Visit madebyjam.co.uk where you can<br />
view and order our entire range of prints<br />
and original art. Or pop into the gallery<br />
when you’re next in Ashburton – we’re<br />
open every day apart from Sundays.<br />
DAWN BOWMAN<br />
Tell us more about your new book?<br />
Snail Village was first written in 2016<br />
and launched October 8th <strong>2023</strong>, here in<br />
Plymouth. It is my first publication and<br />
its success so far has been extremely<br />
gratifying.<br />
So this is a story about a little girl who<br />
concerns herself about the safety of<br />
small creatures, how she gets through<br />
her upset and finds a way to help them,<br />
creating a little happy place in the end.<br />
Where did the idea come from?<br />
It’s a true story of myself and daughter<br />
Perri, who on the school run, would scour<br />
the ground, looking for snails to save, she<br />
would allow them to slide on her hand<br />
and put them safely to one side. This led<br />
me to think about how thoughtful she<br />
was. I wanted to highlight the importance<br />
of morals by story, like timing and a few<br />
other meanings along the way.<br />
You recently had a book launch – How<br />
did it go?<br />
The book launch was a huge success, it<br />
was a beautiful sunny day at the lovely<br />
BOAT HOUSE Seafood restaurant-<br />
Plymouth and the response was amazing<br />
selling over fifty signed copies that day.<br />
I had help from the following people-<br />
WTTB printing company, the amazing<br />
posters were designed by a Devon based<br />
printing company PDS and other prints<br />
from ABC printers, local photographer<br />
Darren Bond, local artist Paige Nolan for<br />
the clay snails and last but certainly not<br />
least the very talented illustrator Lorna<br />
Davey also based in Devon.<br />
We had a lovely couple of hours,<br />
celebrating with friends and family and<br />
the children enjoyed colouring in pages<br />
taken from the book at the colouring<br />
station with sweeties of course!<br />
How does it feel to have your first book<br />
published?<br />
To finally publish my first children’s book<br />
feels like I am literally living the dream.<br />
I have been truly humbled by the<br />
response from many children. To hear<br />
that parents are reading with them at bed<br />
time, and that some have taken the book<br />
to their schools has literally made my<br />
heart grow bigger than ever.<br />
Where can I find out more and order a<br />
copy?<br />
You can purchase a copy of Snail Village<br />
by going to www.bubbsoneguild.co.uk<br />
8 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Jam Contemporary Art<br />
Visit The Jam Gallery to view an eclectic range of prints, nostalgic<br />
dioramas and statement art pieces designed to spark a conversation.<br />
SHOP ONLINE<br />
18 North Street, Ashburton, TQ13 7QD • madebyjam.co.uk<br />
Introducing<br />
SNAIL VILLAGE<br />
the new children’s book by local<br />
author Dawn Bowman.<br />
Snail Village was first written in 2016 and launched<br />
October 8th <strong>2023</strong>, here in Plymouth and illustrated by the<br />
talented Lorna Davey, also based in Devon.<br />
Join Sammy on her journey,<br />
as she tries to prevent small<br />
creatures from harm and how<br />
she manages to help them<br />
create a home.<br />
Visit Dawn’s new website<br />
www.bubbsoneguild.co.uk<br />
where you can have a browse about me<br />
and my journey and buy the current book.<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 9
Alya Phone Case Bag<br />
Leather Black, £69,<br />
lonestaroflondon.com<br />
Hotel-quality dressing gowns - with<br />
embroidery options available Hotel<br />
Velour Robe, £70, tielleloveluxury.co.uk<br />
Comes in<br />
a matching<br />
cotton gift<br />
bag<br />
Keratin-coated hot air styler with<br />
8 accessories for drying your<br />
hair and creating different styles<br />
with a single movement, £99.99,<br />
bellissimaitalia.co.uk<br />
Orange & Neroli 100ml Reed<br />
Diffuser, £21, hauslife.co.uk<br />
gifts for<br />
HER<br />
Cotton PJ Sets, from<br />
£44.99, hauslife.co.uk<br />
Get a lash lift at home with this<br />
amazing complete kit - for only<br />
£39.99; glowforitshop.com<br />
Hayman’s Sloe Gin, £29,<br />
haymansgin.com<br />
Ideal for<br />
cooks<br />
This offers interchangeable grinding<br />
discs, a 15° grinding angle for a filigree<br />
edge and a 20° grinding angle for more<br />
robust blades. £159, horl.com<br />
More than just<br />
an air fryer, it’s<br />
a master in<br />
slow cooking,<br />
roasting, and more,<br />
thanks to precise<br />
temperature<br />
control. I-Master<br />
Air Fryer Series<br />
5, £199, smallappliances-uk.<br />
haier-europe.com<br />
Men’s Active Puffy<br />
Jacket £200,<br />
hellyhansen.<br />
com<br />
gifts for<br />
HIM<br />
British Wool Honeycomb<br />
Chunky Jumper, £79.95,<br />
glencroftcountrywear.<br />
co.uk<br />
Neoprene Dumbell<br />
Hand Weights,<br />
Currently priced at<br />
£19.99, amazon.co.uk<br />
Handleless Coffee<br />
Cup, £11.99,<br />
hauslife.co.uk<br />
Not only is it ultra-lightweight, but it<br />
also includes a travel case and has an<br />
amazing battery life of up to 90 days on<br />
a single charge. SonicSmile Plus £45,<br />
silkn.co.uk<br />
Ultra cosy<br />
and water<br />
repellent<br />
10 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Disney’s Wish Star<br />
Plush by Simba,<br />
Currently priced at<br />
£14.99 amazon.co.uk<br />
Pokémon Train<br />
and Play Deluxe<br />
Pikachu Toy, £34.99,<br />
smythstoys.com<br />
The perfect STEM gift. Once<br />
assembled, children learn about<br />
music notations and can compose<br />
their own tunes by placing the<br />
pegs in different slots. £37.99,<br />
smarttoysandgames.co.uk<br />
They’re easy to<br />
make - simply stick<br />
two puffy stickers<br />
together to make a<br />
charm! Wear them, share them<br />
or mix and match them! DIY Puffy<br />
Charms, £19.99 Argos<br />
Perfect for<br />
hard-to-buyfor<br />
teens<br />
Slimline Hollywood Mirror<br />
£84.99, vonhaus.com<br />
Perfect activity<br />
packs for all ages,<br />
toucanbox.com<br />
gifts for<br />
KIDS<br />
Squishmallow 16” Toy,<br />
smythstoys.com<br />
The Scottish<br />
Pantry £85,<br />
baxtersofscotland.<br />
com<br />
KitchenAid<br />
Cast Iron 26cm<br />
Casserole Dish<br />
with Lid, £200,<br />
hartsofstur.com<br />
Perfect smoked<br />
salmon from the<br />
experts. Whisky<br />
& Soy Glazed<br />
Salmon from<br />
£9.90, smokinbrothers.com<br />
This perfect gift for condiment lovers, spice<br />
freaks and foodies alike; Fermented Hot Sauce<br />
Discovery Box, £29.99, eatenalive.co.uk<br />
Salt and Pepper<br />
Mill, Set, £29.99,<br />
amazon.co.uk<br />
gifts for<br />
FOODIES<br />
Chocolate Slab Gift Box,<br />
£54.99, meltchocolates.com<br />
A delectable assortment of the most<br />
delicious Italian goodies - this is a great<br />
option for those avoiding alcohol at<br />
Christmas, but there are lots of great<br />
options on the website. The Grand<br />
Teetotaller, £93, lavialla.com
TONY<br />
HADLEY<br />
THE<br />
BIG SWING<br />
TOUR <strong>2024</strong><br />
Performing some of the greatest swing songs from a classic era<br />
of music as well as reworked versions from his own repertoire.<br />
Ade Hill met the legend to find out more!<br />
HI TONY. YOU’RE ON THE ROAD<br />
NEXT YEAR WITH THE BIG SWING<br />
TOUR. TELL US MORE?<br />
The Big Swing Tour <strong>2024</strong> which I’m<br />
so looking forward to performing will<br />
see such songs by the likes of Ella<br />
Fitzgerald, Tony Bennett, and Frank<br />
Sinatra; alongside stuff from Elvis and<br />
of course songs from Spandau ‘True’<br />
and ‘Gold’ which will have a real Vegas<br />
swing style version to them.<br />
GROWING UP WAS SWING A<br />
PART OF YOUR YOUNGER<br />
LIFE?<br />
Oh yeah very much so. My Mum and<br />
Dad would always be playing the<br />
greats, especially on the run up to<br />
Sunday lunch. I just adored how they<br />
sang and every summer we would<br />
holiday at Pontins which is where I<br />
started to sing as a young kid. We<br />
formed the band when I was sixteen<br />
at school and my parents were like<br />
we know you like Queen, Bowie, Led<br />
Zeppelin etc., but check these guys<br />
out. Really listen to how Sinatra and<br />
these other greats sing. I really started<br />
to analyse just how great story tellers<br />
they were and still are, so yes, I was<br />
very influenced growing up.<br />
I’VE GOT TO ASK ABOUT<br />
SPANDAU OF COURSE. WHERE<br />
DID IT ALL START?<br />
It really started at school. I wanted to<br />
be an orthopaedic surgeon but soon<br />
found out I wasn’t cleaver enough and<br />
discovered music. We formed the band<br />
at 16 and did R&B covers like any other<br />
school band, then became a punk<br />
band. We played all these punk places<br />
in and around town at the time until the<br />
music scene changed, and we changed<br />
with it. We bought a synthesizer after<br />
hearing Depeche Mode and that really<br />
changed everything.<br />
12 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
THIS MUCH IS TRUE...<br />
THE EARLY<br />
80’S WAS AN<br />
EXCITING<br />
CHANGE IN<br />
TERMS OF<br />
MUSIC AND<br />
FASHION,<br />
RIGHT?<br />
Yeah. If you look<br />
back at post punk<br />
around 78/79<br />
and punk was<br />
in decline, then<br />
you had stuff like<br />
Ultravox, Bowie,<br />
Duran Duran, The<br />
Human League all coming out with<br />
these incredible sounds. It really was<br />
a fascinating period and a defining<br />
decade.<br />
YOU GUYS STARTED OUT IN THE<br />
FAMOUS BLITZ CLUB, BUT WHAT<br />
WAS IT REALLY LIKE?<br />
It was a wine bar during the day. Steve<br />
Strange and Rusty Egan came along<br />
and said to the owners we’ve got a<br />
whole lot of people that want to drink<br />
and party, can we take it over on a<br />
Tuesday night, so the owners basically<br />
said you guarantee to fill the place<br />
then yeah. It became the place to be<br />
seen back then. You had Steve on the<br />
door and if he didn’t like the way you<br />
were dressed, then he would turn you<br />
away. He even refused Mick Jagger<br />
one night!<br />
WASN’T YOUR FIRST VIDEO<br />
SHOT AT THE BLITZ CLUB?<br />
Our first proper gigs were at the Blitz<br />
yeah. We were the house band, but<br />
our first video was actually shot at the<br />
London Dungeon in our tartan outfits.<br />
WHERE DID THE NAME SPANDAU<br />
BALLET COME FROM?<br />
It was from our Mate Rob Elms who<br />
gave us the name. He was working for<br />
London radio at the time and was in<br />
Berlin at a club one night. Basically, he<br />
went to the loo and saw it written on<br />
the toilet wall! We thought that sounds<br />
cool, so we nicked it.<br />
LET’S TALK ABOUT THE SINGLE<br />
TRUE. MY FIRST SNOG WAS TO<br />
THIS WITH A GIRL ON HOLIDAY<br />
“It was from our mate Rob Elms who gave us<br />
the name...Basically, he went to the loo and<br />
saw it written on the toilet wall! We thought<br />
that sounds cool, so we nicked it. ”<br />
WHEN I WAS ABOUT TWELVE.<br />
YOU MUST BE SO VERY PROUD<br />
OF THIS ABSOLUTE CLASSIC?<br />
When I sing True it has this effect on<br />
people, young and old singing along to<br />
all the words.<br />
It’s a very emotional song and you<br />
often see a few tears. It’s a very<br />
powerful song and holds memories for<br />
a lot of people. It’s a beautiful song<br />
and I absolutely love singing it still<br />
today.<br />
LOOKING BACK, WHAT BANDS<br />
DID YOU ADMIRE OR STILL<br />
LISTEN TO TODAY, TONY?<br />
I’ve always loved Duran Duran and<br />
good friends with. Depeche Mode, I<br />
adore. We used to hang out with these<br />
guys before they were signed. I’ve<br />
always loved live music so would see<br />
as many bands as I could from punk to<br />
Bowie and stuff.<br />
TONY IT’S BEEN A REAL<br />
PRIVILEGE TO SPEND TIME<br />
WITH YOU. WHERE CAN I BOOK<br />
TICKETS TO THE BIG SWING<br />
TOUR?<br />
I start the tour in Portsmouth on March<br />
3rd and finish in Ipswich on March<br />
21st.<br />
Check out dates and venues here.<br />
https://myticket.co.uk/artists/tonyhadley<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 13
STYLISH<br />
Stays<br />
Katie Thomson heads for a restorative break at the<br />
Dylan Coastal Resort, Carmarthenshire<br />
You may have visited <strong>South</strong> Wales<br />
for the gems of the Gower Peninsula,<br />
or even the coastal routes of<br />
Pembrokeshire - but if you didn’t stop<br />
to explore the joys of Carmarthenshire,<br />
you are missing some of the country’s<br />
most scenic spots. On its Western<br />
borders you will find the ancient<br />
Brecon Beacons, right to the golden<br />
sandy beaches along Carmarthen Bay<br />
- there’s so much to discover.<br />
Nestled in the quiet seaside town of<br />
Laugharne on the Carmarthen coast,<br />
the Dylan Coastal Resort is a state<br />
of the art, luxurious holiday retreat,<br />
complete with a beautiful spa and Milk<br />
Wood House, the on-site restaurant<br />
featuring the best of local produce.<br />
The Dylan Coastal Resort makes the<br />
most of the expansive vistas afforded<br />
by its prime location on the hills<br />
overlooking the Taf Estuary. The resort<br />
is a collection of 60 luxury lodges,<br />
all designed to maximise the setting<br />
and offer a supremely comfortable<br />
self-catering experience. Some, like<br />
our ‘Epic’ lodge, come with a hot<br />
tub - perfect for soaking up the everchanging<br />
sea view.<br />
Taking its name from poet and Welsh<br />
literary legend Dylan Thomas, guests<br />
can enjoy the same views as Dylan<br />
himself - his famous writing hut is set<br />
on the cliff edge below the resort. The<br />
setting is certainly inspiring and you<br />
can visit his hut, as well as enjoying<br />
some spectacular circular walks taking<br />
in coastal and woodland scenery just<br />
a stroll from the main entrance.<br />
With so much on offer on the site,<br />
you’d be forgiven for not wanting to<br />
14 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk<br />
venture far - there are a few lovely<br />
eateries in Laugharne, but we loved<br />
Milk Wood House. With three separate<br />
terraces to dine on, an open kitchen<br />
featuring a wood-fired pizza oven,<br />
and a refined yet rustic approach to<br />
cooking, the Milk Wood Kitchen and<br />
Bar is the perfect place to drink and<br />
dine, soaking in the views.<br />
Relaxation is paramount here and the<br />
spa delivers on every level. It has been<br />
thoughtfully designed to maximise the<br />
views - the swimming pool featuring<br />
two-storey windows out to the sea.<br />
The on-site spa also offers up a host<br />
of luxury treatments with premium<br />
skincare brand ishga, to help you relax<br />
into your stay, brightening, cleansing<br />
facials to deep tissue massages – all<br />
of which will be tailored to suit your<br />
individual needs.<br />
The resort is ideally placed for further<br />
exploration - on a gloriously sunny<br />
day, we took the scenic coastal route<br />
to Tenby. If you’ve not visited before,<br />
I’d implore you to - with it’s historic<br />
13th century fortress walls alongside<br />
rows of brightly coloured terraces,<br />
it’s picturesque and a joy to wander<br />
around. Couple that with it’s bevy of<br />
independent stores and charming<br />
pubs, it’s the perfect day trip from<br />
the resort.<br />
A trip to recharge the batteries was<br />
needed and the Dylan Coastal resort<br />
delivered on every level. If you’re<br />
looking for a destination which offers<br />
fantastic facilities, unparalleled<br />
comfort and the most picturesque of<br />
settings, consider this beauty spot for<br />
your next staycation.<br />
Stays at Dylan Coastal Resort start from £379.<br />
For more information or to book, please, visit<br />
www.luxurylodges.com/dylan-coastal-resort
Christmas<br />
Gift Vouchers<br />
available<br />
Torquay<br />
Escape to our Spa and take<br />
some time for yourself.<br />
• Luxury ELEMIS treatments<br />
• OPI manicures and<br />
pedicures<br />
• Dedicated relaxation area<br />
• Aztec Spa Shop<br />
• Aztec Spa Fire & Ice<br />
multisensory thermal suite<br />
Call 01803 400190<br />
www.tlh.co.uk<br />
Spa Days<br />
from<br />
Only<br />
£80pp<br />
A range<br />
of Gift<br />
Vouchers<br />
Available<br />
We’re social, join us on<br />
#TLHhotels<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 15
Cooking for<br />
CHRISTMAS<br />
We have some delicious recipes from the<br />
appliance pros at Cuisinart to make festive<br />
hosting easier<br />
Shredded Brussels & Pancetta<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
80g pancetta, cubed<br />
125g sprouts<br />
Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette<br />
1 clove garlic, slightly crushed<br />
1 lemon, juiced<br />
3 tbsp dijon mustard<br />
40ml apple cider vinegar<br />
120ml olive oil<br />
2 tsp honey<br />
Sea salt & pepper<br />
METHOD<br />
Add the pancetta to a medium /<br />
hot frying pan and cook until the fat<br />
renders and the pancetta is crispy.<br />
Place the pancetta on paper towel<br />
before setting to one side.<br />
Trim and peel the sprouts. In the<br />
Easy Prep Pro, set up the fine slicing<br />
disc in the large work bowl and<br />
process the sprouts on ‘HIGH’.<br />
Set up the small work bowl with the<br />
small chopping/mixing blade.<br />
Add all the vinaigrette ingredients<br />
to the small work bowl. Secure the<br />
lid and process on ‘HIGH’ until a<br />
thick emulsion forms. Season with<br />
sea salt and black pepper. Run the<br />
machine using the ‘PULSE’ button<br />
until thoroughly mixed. Pour the<br />
vinaigrette into a suitable jug for<br />
serving.<br />
Place the sprouts into a serving dish<br />
and drizzle over a generous serving<br />
of the vinaigrette. Combine well and<br />
scatter over the crispy pancetta.<br />
Tip: Any remaining vinaigrette can<br />
be stored in an airtight container in<br />
the fridge for up to 5 days.<br />
Spiced Victoria<br />
Sponge<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
250g butter, room temperature<br />
250g caster sugar<br />
4 medium eggs<br />
1 tsp vanilla essence<br />
1 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
1 tsp grated nutmeg<br />
175g self raising flour<br />
75g ground almonds<br />
1tsp baking powder<br />
Clementine Cream (not shown)<br />
300 ml double cream<br />
1 tbsp sifted icing sugar, plus some<br />
for dusting the cake<br />
1 large Clementine, zested and 1<br />
tbsp juice<br />
To Serve<br />
Seasonal berries<br />
Chopped pistachios<br />
METHOD<br />
Preheat the oven to 180ºC / Fan<br />
160ºC / Gas Mark 42.<br />
Grease a fluted bundt cake tin,<br />
alternatively you can use two<br />
greased and lined 20 cm springform<br />
cake tins. This will produce a more<br />
traditional cake.<br />
Set up the large work bowl of the<br />
Expert Prep Pro with the large<br />
chopping/mixing blade. Place the<br />
butter and sugar in the bowl and<br />
process on high until creamy.<br />
Add the eggs through the feed tube<br />
one by one, processing between<br />
each addition. Add the vanilla<br />
essence, cinnamon and nutmeg.<br />
Process to combine.<br />
Add the flour, ground almonds and<br />
baking powder. Process lightly.<br />
Pour the cake mixture into the cake<br />
tin(s) and smooth the batter until<br />
level.<br />
Bake in the oven for 30 to 35<br />
minutes until the cake is golden<br />
brown on top and a skewer comes<br />
out clean.<br />
Allow to rest for a moment in the<br />
tin(s) before turning out onto a wire<br />
rack and leave to cool completely.<br />
<strong>Dec</strong>orate the cake with berries,<br />
chopped pistachios and lightly dust<br />
with icing sugar.<br />
Make the Clementine cream by<br />
softly whipping the cream with the<br />
icing sugar, Clementine zest and<br />
juice using the whisk attachment of<br />
the hand blender.<br />
Serve with the clementine cream.<br />
If using traditional springform tins<br />
the clementine cream can be used<br />
between the sponges.<br />
16 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Catch of the day<br />
Mackerel stir-fry recipe<br />
If you’re trying to get more fish into your diet, try this<br />
wallet-friendly mackerel stir-fry recipe. Ready in just<br />
25 minutes, top gingery noodles and veg with a crispy<br />
mackerel fillet for a speedy midweek dinner idea...<br />
Ingredients<br />
2 tbsp vegetable oil<br />
4 mackerel fillets<br />
4 nests fine egg noodles<br />
30g ginger, peeled and finely chopped<br />
2 garlic cloves, sliced<br />
320g vegetable stir-fry mix<br />
3 tbsp light soy sauce, plus more to serve<br />
15g fresh coriander, leaves picked<br />
Method<br />
1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a non-stick frying pan over a medium-high<br />
heat. Pat the mackerel fillets dry with kitchen paper and fry<br />
skin-side down for 5 mins. Flip carefully with a spatula and<br />
cook for another 2-3 mins until cooked through and the fish is<br />
flaky. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.<br />
2. Cook the noodles in boiling salted water for 2-3 mins until<br />
tender. Rinse under cold water and drain well.<br />
3. Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or frying pan over a high<br />
heat. Add the ginger and garlic, then fry for 1 min until fragrant.<br />
Tip in the veg mix and fry for 4-5 mins, stirring continually, until<br />
cooked but still with a little bite. Toss in the cooked noodles<br />
and soy sauce. Mix well until everything is coated, then divide<br />
between bowls. Serve with the mackerel on top, scattered with<br />
the coriander leaves. Serve with more soy sauce if you like.<br />
CATCH OF THE DAY<br />
Fishmongers<br />
With over 40 years combined experience in the<br />
fish industry, we can prepare for you the finest and<br />
freshest available fish to your exact requirements.<br />
As well as superb local fish we offer a large range of<br />
frozen seafood products to compliment any meal.<br />
On site producers and suppliers of the famous<br />
Salcombe Smokies - named Champion Fish at the<br />
Taste of the West Awards.<br />
If that wasn’t enough, our shop<br />
also snatched the Gold status<br />
at the awards!<br />
Also supply restaurants and hotels<br />
and hold the highest award for<br />
hygiene the Council can give.<br />
54 Fore Street, Kingsbridge TQ7 1NY<br />
Telephone 01548 852006<br />
FANCY A FESTIVE BREW<br />
THIS CHRISTMAS!<br />
We chat to Plymouth’s Original Craft Brewery...<br />
Tell us more about Summerskills Brewery?<br />
Summerskills Brewery was founded in 1983 by Adam<br />
Summerskill using the redundant kit from Penrhos Brewery<br />
set up by Terry Jones of Monty Python fame. Initially situated<br />
in Bibgbury, near Adam’s home in Ringmore, the brewery was<br />
moved to the current site at Plymstock in 1985.<br />
What have you got brewing for Christmas?<br />
We have our Christmas beers “Turkey’s Delight” at 4.6% ABV in<br />
cask and 5.1% in bottles and our “Christmouse” at 5.1% cask<br />
only brewed, bottled and ready for Christmas.<br />
Can I purchase gift sets?<br />
We offer 3 bottle gift sets and you can select from our range of<br />
about a dozen different bottled beers.<br />
Where abouts are you?<br />
We are situated at 15 Pomphlett Farm Industrial Estate, just<br />
on the edge of the new Saltram Meadow housing estate, off<br />
the Billacombe Road in<br />
Plymstock and we have a ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
premises licence for the retail<br />
sale of alcohol so you can<br />
buy direct from the brewery.<br />
Where can I find out more<br />
online?<br />
Our website is<br />
www.summerskills.co.uk<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 17
Winter Pavlova<br />
METHOD<br />
Preheat the oven to 140ºC/120ºC<br />
fan/gas 1.Line a baking tray with<br />
greaseproof paper. Mark out<br />
a 23cm circle on the backing<br />
paper to help size your pavlova.<br />
Attach the whisk attachment to<br />
the Cuisinart Hand Blender and<br />
whisk the egg whites in a clean,<br />
dry bowl on a medium setting<br />
until frothy. Add the cream of<br />
tartar and the white wine vinegar.<br />
Continue to whisk on a higher<br />
setting until the egg whites start<br />
to form stiff peaks.<br />
Gradually beat in the sugar,<br />
whisking it back to stiff peaks<br />
after each addition. When it<br />
is glossy and smooth spoon<br />
the meringue mixture onto the<br />
baking paper, making a shallow<br />
dip in the centre with the back of<br />
the spoon.<br />
Bake in the oven for 70 minutes,<br />
until the meringue looks slightly<br />
gooey in the middle and crisp on<br />
the outside. Turn the oven off,<br />
leaving the door open slightly<br />
and allow the meringue to cool<br />
completely.<br />
Whip the cream to soft peaks<br />
using the whisk attachment of<br />
the Cuisinart Hand Blender on a<br />
high setting. Whisk in the icing<br />
sugar and vanilla essence being<br />
careful not to over whisk the<br />
cream.<br />
Spoon the cream onto the<br />
cooled meringue and decorate<br />
with the clementines.<br />
Sift over a dusting of icing sugar<br />
before serving.<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
4 egg whites<br />
1 tsp cream of tartar<br />
1 tsp white wine vinegar<br />
225g caster sugar<br />
250ml whipping cream<br />
1 tbsp sifted icing sugar<br />
1 tsp vanilla essence<br />
4 - 6 peeled clementines<br />
Icing sugar for dusting<br />
18 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Scan to watch<br />
senior designer,<br />
Jason, discuss<br />
why the Sovereign<br />
range is so special.<br />
Reign supreme.<br />
Our NEW Sovereign range makes for<br />
the ultimate high-end, contemporary<br />
or classic, hand-crafted bespoke kitchen.<br />
Call to arrange a free no-obligation home design<br />
visit or book an appointment to visit a showroom.<br />
01363 773533 · ashgrovekitchens.co.uk<br />
Head Office and Showroom: Marsh Lane,<br />
Lords Meadow, Crediton, Devon, EX17 1ES
Renovate &<br />
ELEVATE<br />
We take a deeper look into a beautiful renovation to find out what<br />
makes a good kitchen great - with thoughts from the owner, Kate<br />
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE<br />
DESIGN PROCESS?<br />
Absolutely - we all know there are a lot of<br />
options out there for kitchens, but I knew I<br />
wanted an in-frame, painted design with a light<br />
wood grain. I came across Smile Kitchens and<br />
instantly loved the elevated styling they offer -<br />
the Hampton range caught my eye particularly.<br />
It had all the timeless styling that I was looking<br />
for, and a lovely combination of colours.<br />
I was initially a little concerned by the lack of<br />
a showroom, but I needn’t have been. After a<br />
discovery consultation where I listed my must<br />
haves, my designer Corinne got to work on<br />
rendering that with my space dimensions. In<br />
the meantime, I was sent large door and knob<br />
samples so I could have them to hand when<br />
my design was ready to view. To really give me<br />
a feel for how the kitchen would look, it was<br />
rendered onto a video, giving me a 360 view of<br />
the space. I make a few tweaks and Corinne<br />
came back each time, just perfecting the vision I<br />
had for this important space.<br />
This is a big room (approximately 4.5 x 5.5m)<br />
and it has openings or glazing on all sides - this<br />
meant that planning a more conventional kitchen<br />
with lots of base and wall units was a challenge.<br />
The interruption on each of the walls meant that<br />
the cupboard configurations had to be carefully<br />
considered - and Corinne got this spot on. We<br />
opted for lots of tall cabinets, including a built in<br />
larder and a pantry with bi-fold doors - perfect as<br />
a breakfast station. These cupboards hide all the<br />
“I think the triangular work space<br />
concept is a little outdated for how<br />
we use kitchens now. Of course it<br />
makes sense to keep everything<br />
accessible and easy to move around,<br />
but for me, it was also important<br />
that the space felt social and made<br />
the most of the setting.”<br />
big appliances, meaning the worktops can stay<br />
clutter-free, and help to keep you organised with<br />
lots of internal shelves.<br />
LET’S TALK FLOORING...<br />
Tiles are a great option for flooring, but because<br />
of the painted kitchen finish and the quartz<br />
worktops, I wanted to warm up the space with<br />
timber. Obviously, kitchen floors need to be<br />
robust - able to withstand spills, items being<br />
dropped and the general traffic of daily life. I<br />
was concerned a timber or engineered floor<br />
would dint, so instead opted for LVT from<br />
the experts at Karndean. I spent a lot of time<br />
comparing samples before settling on Canadian<br />
Nude Oak - it was light enough without reading<br />
too grey or white.<br />
The best bit about this floor was the ease of<br />
installation - my partner and I were able to cover<br />
a huge area over the course an evening. The<br />
rigid core planks click together easily and have<br />
a reassuring solidity.<br />
FUNCTIONALITY IS KING IN A<br />
KITCHEN - HOW DO YOU MAKE<br />
SURE THE SPACE WORKS?<br />
I thought long and hard about how I’d use the<br />
space. I think the triangular work space concept<br />
is a little outdated for how we use kitchens now.<br />
Of course it makes sense to keep everything<br />
accessible and easy to move around, but for me,<br />
it was also important that the space felt social<br />
and made the most of the setting. The kitchen<br />
sink enjoys the best views - looking even better<br />
with the lovely CRL quartz running over the sill.<br />
I wanted the island to be social - I didn’t include<br />
a sink on there because I didn’t want the<br />
washing up to be the focus. Instead the hob<br />
faces out into the room. Finally, the fridge is<br />
right by the island, so you can load shopping in<br />
easily, or food out ready to be prepped.<br />
Then for me it was about choosing the right<br />
appliances. These are the bits that make all the<br />
difference! I’ve lusted after a fridge with double<br />
doors for years, and this amazing Haier model<br />
is a technological gem. It automatically detects<br />
Hotpoint Built<br />
In Double Oven;<br />
Hampton Kitchen<br />
in Pearl<br />
20 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Clearwater Kettle Tap;<br />
CRL Stone Quartz<br />
worktops in Verona<br />
Photography by Lucy Hartley-Saunders<br />
Origin Bifold Doors;<br />
Hampton Kitchen in Onyx<br />
Heritage Bronze Sockets and Switches from<br />
Corston Architectural<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 21
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22 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
when you’ve gone shopping, and<br />
adjusts the temperature of the fridge<br />
in anticipation. Its different humidity<br />
control zones means food stays<br />
fresher for far longer too. The freezer<br />
drawers are perfect for actually<br />
being able to see everything - there<br />
will be nothing lurking at the back,<br />
forgotten about.<br />
The oven is lovely and capacious<br />
- mounted into the tall units for<br />
convenience. And the integrated<br />
dishwasher is ideal, with moveable<br />
baskets and there’s also ActiveDry<br />
technology, which opens the door<br />
near the end of the cycle to allow air<br />
to circulate.<br />
The design of the kitchen<br />
necessitated a venting hob - this<br />
means we can keep that clean look<br />
above the island without a hood.<br />
This hob from Hotpoint is a thing of<br />
beauty - it has a vast cooking area<br />
which can also be synced, creating<br />
increased zones for larger pots and<br />
pans. My favourite feature is the<br />
‘keep warm’ setting - perfect when<br />
you’re not ready to serve. Above<br />
the island is an inset ceiling speaker<br />
from Lithe Audio, which you connect<br />
to your phone with Bluetooth - it<br />
really creates a great social space or<br />
just a lovely place to cook.<br />
Finally, I’m not sure what my life<br />
was before a boiling water tap -<br />
but I don’t want to go back there.<br />
This is a quadruple function kettle<br />
tap - in essence it does everything<br />
your normal tap does, but with the<br />
bonus of filtered cold and 98C water.<br />
It makes cooking a breeze, and<br />
that morning cuppa so much more<br />
efficient. It’s got built in safety features<br />
too to make sure kids can’t get hurt.<br />
THE WORKTOPS ARE<br />
LOVELY - WHAT ARE<br />
THEY MADE FROM?<br />
I knew from the outset that I wanted<br />
quartz worktops - these are slim<br />
20mm profile tops from CRL Stone.<br />
I went with the Verona finish, which<br />
had a subtle marble to help bring<br />
together the colours of the wall units<br />
and the island. It’s hard-wearing and<br />
looks so beautiful - it’s the ultimate<br />
luxury.<br />
THE GLAZING IS SUCH<br />
A SIGNIFICANT PART OF<br />
THE ROOM - WHAT DID<br />
YOU CHOOSE?<br />
Yes, so we have glazing on three<br />
walls - the windows above the<br />
sink are UPVC but the doors are<br />
all aluminium. We agonised over<br />
whether to have bifold doors or<br />
sliders - worried that bifold doors<br />
can lose energy efficiency over<br />
time. We opted in the end to go<br />
with industry leaders Origin Doors -<br />
they are manufactured to very high<br />
standards and come with a 20 year<br />
guarantee, which was so reassuring.<br />
They have an eight-point locking<br />
system too, so essential for security.<br />
We had a 3.7m gap, so opted for<br />
three large doors - meaning we have<br />
a single openable door which is<br />
more convenient for everyday life,<br />
and fewer frames - maximising the<br />
views and the feeling of the outside<br />
being in. Origin make the doors<br />
to order, so they can find the right<br />
configuration for your space.<br />
ANYTHING YOU’D DO<br />
DIFFERENTLY?<br />
Nope! I genuinely love it and love<br />
cooking in here. It has a great feel<br />
and just functions so well. I love<br />
all the tech - it makes life so much<br />
easier.<br />
STOCKIST DETAILS:<br />
Appliances: Haier HFW7819EWMP<br />
Smart Fridge Freezer; Hotpoint<br />
PVH92BUK Black 90cm Vented<br />
Hob; Hotpoint Class 2 DD2 540 IX<br />
Built-in Double Oven - Stainless<br />
Steel Hotpoint H8IHT59LSUK Fully<br />
Integrated Standard Dishwasher;<br />
Clearwater Kettle Tap, 01684 299555,<br />
clearwaterproducts.co.uk<br />
Kitchen: Hampton Range in Pearl<br />
and Onyx from Smile Kitchens,<br />
smilekitchens.com<br />
Flooring: Karndean Luxury Vinyl<br />
Tile in Canadian Nude Oak from<br />
palioexpress.com<br />
Worktops: CRL Stone in Verona,<br />
01706 863600, or visit crlstone.co.uk<br />
Sockets and switches: corston.com<br />
Ceiling Speaker: Lithe Audio,<br />
litheaudio.com<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 23
Located above Plymouth’s bustling Ridgeway highstreet,<br />
our highly skilled team have been designing and<br />
creating handmade, made to measure, curtains, blinds,<br />
and soft furnishings for over 20 years. We will guide you<br />
through the process of planning and selecting styles<br />
and fabrics to complement your type of windows and<br />
interior. From the initial consultation to provide ideas and<br />
inspiration, to a full survey, delivery and installation.<br />
“ ”<br />
Marie delivers knowledgeable advice in a friendly manner,<br />
from choosing fabrics through measuring up to delivery<br />
and installation of my blinds and cushions it has been a<br />
pleasant experience and needless to say I am delighted<br />
with the finished product. All round excellent service from<br />
Marie and her team.<br />
Sam, Private Client<br />
Marie Hewitt<br />
Marie is actively involved in the day-to-day activities of<br />
the studio, contributing her experience, knowledge and<br />
creativity to both her clients and team. “Even though I<br />
have been dressing windows for over 17 years, I still love<br />
what I do and my favourite part of the process is faffing<br />
with curtains and cushions at the completion stage!”<br />
Sourcing products such as fabrics, linings, tracks and poles to suit any scheme and budget, we are able to<br />
work with a variety of clients, including local homeowners with one window to large-scale<br />
commercial projects for Interior Designers. We will travel to wherever the work takes us - delivering projects<br />
all over the UK from the depths of Cornwall, to the Lake District and Jersey to name a few. Our attention<br />
to detail provides our clients with a “personable service from beginning to end”, as quoted by a client on a 5<br />
star Google review.<br />
As a major fabric supplier for over 40 reputable brands, the studio holds around 30,000 fabric and wallpaper samples<br />
to choose from and we are happy to supply fabric by the metre. We are also suppliers of roller, venetian and vertical blinds,<br />
shutters, upholstery, and handmade cushions. With 2 workbenches, 3 full-time seamstresses, 4 sewing machines and 3<br />
project assistants, we invite you to visit our light and spacious studio to see our team in action!<br />
24 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Winter in the garden<br />
NOTES FROM<br />
THE GARDEN<br />
As you look out of your window on<br />
a cold grey day you might not be<br />
inspired to head into the garden.<br />
However, there are all sorts of jobs to do and a good hour or two<br />
in the garden means that your cup of coffee at the end of it will<br />
taste even better – and you can reward yourself by snuggling up<br />
with your favourite gardening magazine or plant catalogue and<br />
plan for sunnier days!<br />
Apple and pear trees are due for a prune and this can be a<br />
prospect that is a bit of a challenge. Really good loppers,<br />
telescopic ones work really well, are essential and not tackling<br />
the whole tree in one go is an<br />
idea too. When pruning, do<br />
remember to step back regularly<br />
to just look at your progress, as<br />
you need to maintain its natural<br />
shape. It is very easy to go at it<br />
full tilt and then realise you have<br />
been less than consistent - this<br />
applies really to any pruning you<br />
do.<br />
The greenhouse is a good refuge<br />
from those cold winds and now is the time to clean it out, clean<br />
the pots, with a scrubbing brush and environmentally friendly<br />
disinfectant and get everything spic and span for Spring. I<br />
really love doing this as it reminds me that soon I will be sowing<br />
seeds and taking cuttings ready for a lovely new gardening year.<br />
You can even sow broad beans now and keep them in a cold<br />
greenhouse so its not all cleaning and tidying! Don’t forget to<br />
plan for the bees and bugs, making home-made bug hotels will<br />
keep the kids happy for hours – and do keep feeding the birds<br />
and ensuring that they have clean unfrozen drinking water.<br />
Bare beds can be turned over now too – a really good work out,<br />
or cover them with a layer of well- rotted compost if you favour<br />
the ‘no dig’ method. At the end of all this hard work you can<br />
sit with a notepad cuddling your hot coffee and start planning<br />
changes so that <strong>2024</strong> is a fabulous gardening year.<br />
For more advice, visit Matt Bigg’s website:<br />
www.matthewbiggs.com<br />
Get your weekends back<br />
Unit 4-7 Torr Trade Park. Torr Quarry Industrial Estate<br />
Tel: 01548 853679<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 25
PRACTICAL PLANNING:<br />
When it's time<br />
to Divorce<br />
The festive season, with its<br />
pressures, close confines and focus<br />
on family-time, can sometimes be<br />
the final straw in the breakdown<br />
of a marriage. Getting divorced<br />
after the Christmas season can be<br />
emotionally challenging, but it’s<br />
important to approach the process<br />
with a clear understanding of your<br />
rights and responsibilities. In the UK,<br />
divorce proceedings are governed<br />
by family law, and the process<br />
typically involves several steps:<br />
REFLECT ON YOUR<br />
DECISION<br />
Before initiating divorce<br />
proceedings, take some time to<br />
reflect on your decision. Divorce<br />
is a significant life event, and it’s<br />
essential to be sure that it’s the<br />
right step for you. Consider seeking<br />
counselling or support from friends<br />
and family to help you navigate your<br />
emotions.<br />
CONSULT WITH A<br />
SOLICITOR<br />
Once you are certain about your<br />
decision to divorce, it’s advisable<br />
to consult with a solicitor who<br />
specialises in family law. A solicitor<br />
can provide you with legal advice<br />
and guide you through the divorce<br />
process, helping you understand<br />
your rights and obligations.<br />
FILLING OUT THE<br />
DIVORCE APPLICATION<br />
Your solicitor will assist you in<br />
completing the divorce application.<br />
This document is then filed with the<br />
court, along with the appropriate fee.<br />
SERVE THE DIVORCE<br />
APPLICATION<br />
The divorce application must be<br />
served on your spouse, who will<br />
have the opportunity to respond.<br />
This is usually done online or by<br />
post. Your solicitor can help ensure<br />
this step is carried out correctly.<br />
FINANCIAL<br />
SETTLEMENT<br />
Alongside the divorce proceedings,<br />
it’s essential to address financial<br />
matters, including the division<br />
of assets, property, and financial<br />
support. You may wish to attend<br />
mediation sessions to reach an<br />
agreement or via solicitors. If an<br />
agreement cannot be reached, an<br />
application to court can be made<br />
and the court can make a decision<br />
based on the circumstances.<br />
CHILD<br />
ARRANGEMENTS AND<br />
SUPPORT<br />
If you have children, it’s crucial<br />
to decide on arrangements for<br />
them and child support as soon<br />
as possible. The court’s primary<br />
concern is the best interests of<br />
the children, and it’s typically best<br />
if both parents can agree these<br />
matters through mediation or<br />
negotiation. The sooner these are<br />
settled, the better for your children.<br />
ATTEND COURT<br />
HEARINGS<br />
Depending on the complexity of<br />
your case and whether you and<br />
your spouse can agree on the<br />
terms, you may need to attend<br />
court hearings. These hearings will<br />
address any outstanding issues<br />
related to financial matters and<br />
child arrangements.<br />
CONDITIONAL ORDER<br />
AND FINAL ORDER<br />
After the court grants a Conditional<br />
Order, there is a waiting period of<br />
at least six weeks before you can<br />
apply for the Final Order, which<br />
finalizes the divorce.<br />
MOVING FORWARD<br />
After obtaining the Final Order,<br />
your marriage will be legally<br />
dissolved. Take this time to focus<br />
on your emotional healing, seek<br />
support from friends and family,<br />
and begin planning for your future.<br />
Getting divorced after Christmas<br />
or any time of the year can be<br />
a difficult process, but with the<br />
right legal advice and emotional<br />
support, you can navigate it<br />
successfully. Remember that every<br />
divorce is unique, and the specific<br />
steps and timeline may vary<br />
depending on your circumstances.<br />
Consulting with a qualified solicitor<br />
is essential to ensure that you<br />
understand and meet all legal<br />
requirements in the UK.<br />
26 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
UNDERSTANDING DIVORCE<br />
As many people are aware, divorce law changed in April<br />
2022. To obtain a divorce under the old law you had to prove<br />
fault on the part of the other spouse.<br />
The divorce process did little to bring<br />
about a sense of acceptance needed<br />
in order to move forward with life.<br />
It was also a rather cumbersome<br />
process which could easily get side<br />
tracked into satellite issues such as<br />
costs. Under the new law there is<br />
every incentive for spouses to consider<br />
the sharing of the divorce costs at<br />
the start and agree how to proceed<br />
either via a joint application or a sole<br />
application. The divorce application is<br />
issued through His Majesty’s Courts &<br />
Tribunals Service (HMCTS). The online<br />
process is relatively straightforward for<br />
those comfortable with technology.<br />
However, I would urge caution before<br />
issuing. For a young couple without<br />
dependants and few assets, there<br />
may not be too much to worry about<br />
but for others, there could be a lot<br />
more at risk. Before doing anything,<br />
it is sensible to consider how divorce<br />
will impact your position. There are<br />
many areas to consider. It is important<br />
firstly, to be fully aware of all the<br />
assets you may individually or jointly<br />
own or have an interest in. Thereafter,<br />
consideration can be given to how<br />
these might be shared fairly. Pension<br />
entitlements should be assessed.<br />
Widow/widower benefits might be<br />
wiped out by the hasty issue of the<br />
Final Divorce Order. Whilst that might<br />
ultimately be rectified through pension<br />
sharing, a period of risk will have been<br />
created which could otherwise have<br />
been avoided if matters had been<br />
considered at an early stage. In my<br />
experience, most cases ultimately<br />
reach agreement which can be<br />
incorporated into a final clean break<br />
type order approved by a judge and<br />
without the need for contested court<br />
proceedings.<br />
People are becoming more aware of<br />
options to try to safeguard their assets<br />
and potentially assets of extended<br />
family, should the worst happen.<br />
Marriage is not for everyone and<br />
cohabitation remains as popular as<br />
ever. Be-spoke documents such as<br />
Pre-Nuptial Agreements, Cohabitation<br />
Agreements, Post Nuptial Agreements,<br />
can all assist in trying to preserve<br />
assets. Other steps such as making<br />
wills and buying properties with a<br />
<strong>Dec</strong>laration of Trust may also assist.<br />
Should you wish to discuss matters,<br />
please do not hesitate to contact me,<br />
Helen Saunders email<br />
helen.saunders@beersllp.com or<br />
01548 857000.<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 27
CARE CONSIDERATIONS:<br />
OPTIONS<br />
FOR CARE<br />
IN THE<br />
HOME<br />
Many people living with chronic<br />
pain, illness or limitations on mobility<br />
maintain a strong desire to stay in<br />
the home – but, to ensure safety,<br />
there are lots of considerations to<br />
bear in mind. There are various<br />
considerations to ensure their<br />
comfort, safety, and well-being. We<br />
explore essential factors for providing<br />
care at home...<br />
MOBILITY AID<br />
SUGGESTIONS<br />
Wheelchairs: Wheelchairs offer<br />
mobility for individuals with limited<br />
or no ability to walk. Choose<br />
between manual or powered<br />
wheelchairs based on the<br />
individual’s strength and preference.<br />
Mobility Scooters: For outdoor<br />
independence, consider mobility<br />
scooters, which can be used for<br />
shopping, outdoor activities, or<br />
visiting friends and family.<br />
Walking Aids: Walking sticks,<br />
crutches, or walking frames provide<br />
support for those with limited<br />
mobility. Ensure they are the right<br />
height and offer proper support.<br />
Stairlifts and Ramps: Install<br />
stairlifts or ramps to make the home<br />
more accessible for individuals who<br />
have difficulty climbing stairs.<br />
Adaptive Bathroom Equipment:<br />
Invest in grab bars, shower chairs,<br />
and raised toilet seats to enhance<br />
bathroom safety.<br />
LIVE-IN CARE OPTIONS<br />
Overnight Care: Overnight care<br />
provides peace of mind for both<br />
the individual and their caregivers.<br />
Trained professionals or family<br />
members can stay overnight to assist<br />
with any needs that may arise.<br />
Respite Care: Respite care offers<br />
caregivers a temporary break while<br />
ensuring the person’s well-being.<br />
It can be arranged for a few hours<br />
a day or several days a week,<br />
depending on the caregiver’s needs.<br />
Personal Care Assistants:<br />
Personal care assistants are trained<br />
professionals who offer personalised<br />
support with daily activities such<br />
as bathing, dressing, medication<br />
management, and meal preparation.<br />
Live-in Caregivers: Live-in<br />
caregivers provide continuous<br />
support, allowing individuals to<br />
maintain their independence while<br />
receiving assistance with daily<br />
tasks and companionship. These<br />
caregivers can also help with<br />
household chores.<br />
CONSIDERATIONS FOR<br />
QUALITY CARE<br />
Assessment and Planning:<br />
Begin by conducting a thorough<br />
assessment of the individual’s needs<br />
and preferences. Create a care<br />
plan that outlines specific tasks,<br />
schedules, and goals.<br />
Training and Certification: Ensure<br />
that caregivers are properly trained<br />
and certified to handle the specific<br />
needs of the individual, whether it<br />
involves medical care or assisting<br />
with mobility.<br />
Communication: Maintain open<br />
and regular communication with<br />
the care team, including healthcare<br />
professionals, to monitor the<br />
individual’s condition and adapt the<br />
care plan as needed.<br />
Safety Measures: Implement safety<br />
measures such as fall prevention<br />
strategies, proper medication<br />
management, and emergency<br />
response plans.<br />
Emotional Support: Recognise<br />
the emotional needs of both the<br />
individual and the caregiver. Seek<br />
support from support groups or<br />
counselling services if necessary.<br />
Caring for someone with chronic<br />
pain, illness, or physical disability<br />
at home requires careful planning<br />
and consideration. By selecting the<br />
right mobility aids and exploring<br />
care options, individuals can<br />
receive the support they need while<br />
maintaining their independence and<br />
quality of life.<br />
28 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
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Powerchairs<br />
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Daily Living Aids<br />
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Visit One of our Showrooms Open 6 Days<br />
Trudoxhill Nr Frome - *Shepton Mallet - Coxley, Wells - Warminster - Melksham<br />
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Hundreds of rolls of designer fabrics<br />
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Avon Mill<br />
Café, Garden Centre & Shops<br />
In The Beautiful Avon Valley.<br />
Wonderful Woodland walks • Dogs welcome<br />
Cosy Café serving Fabulous Breakfasts,<br />
Lunches & Devon Cream Teas.<br />
Loddiswell • Kingsbridge TQ7 4DD<br />
www.avonmill.com 01548 550338<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 29
Beautiful bedrooms, creatively designed for you.<br />
PRICING<br />
£HONEST<br />
• Sliding Wardrobes • Fitted Wardrobes • Fully Project Managed • Expert Free Home Design Service<br />
14 Oak Tree Place, Manaton Close, Marsh Barton, Exeter EX2 8WA<br />
Showroom Opening Times: Monday-Friday 9.00am-5.00pm, Saturday 10am-4pm (Or by Appointment)<br />
MADE IN<br />
BRITAIN<br />
01392 922 182 | master-bedrooms.co.uk<br />
Master Bedrooms is a division of Ashgrove Kitchens Ltd, 3 Lords Meadow Industrial Estate, Marsh Lane, Crediton EX17 1ES. Company Registration No. 2092604.<br />
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See the full collection at hauslife.co.uk<br />
30 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
01548 521339 ∙ 07595 914330<br />
info@mooregardenrooms.com<br />
mooregardenrooms.com
diamond<br />
sparklers<br />
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M_Spiers_Taunton_Living_Ad_OCT23_options.indd 1 04/10/<strong>2023</strong> 09:59