West August 27 2016 by DCMedia

27.08.16

ways to enjoy Bank Holiday

How to:

shape up in style WIN! Organic BBQ feast

ROCK STAR Why TVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Andrei Burton is happiest on Dartmoor

- pg 12 cover.indd 1

22/08/2016 17:14:43

C’est magnifique!

Hearth & Cook brings a new experience to home lovers and makers. Expertly gathered together in our showroom in Exeter is a selection of the finest products designed to

transform homes and inspire wonderful culinary creations, including a touch of je ne sais quoi from the renowned French cooker specialists, La Cornue. Visit our showroom now to see many of these appliances in action or browse our website for more information.

• RANGE COOKERS FROM LA CORNUE AND ESSE • MORSØ STOVES & OUTDOOR LIVING RANGE • ASHGROVE BESPOKE KITCHENS Find us in Oaktree Place, 100 yards behind Carrs Ferrari & Maserati.

Ads.indd 1

Call 01392 797679 www.hearthandcook.com 14 Oaktree Place Manaton Close, Matford, Exeter, Devon EX2 8WA

23/08/2016 12:53:40

‘I didn’t have a problem. To prove my point, I quickly tweeted “How much social media use is too much?”’ Chris McGuire goes smartphone cold turkey, p46

A ROOM WITH A VIEW Riverside living in the South Hams

16 44

AGAINST THE ODDS Celebrating inspirational women

SEASIDE FUN Insider info on the best of the west

[contents[ Inside this week... 6

THE WISHLIST Our pick of the best treats this week

JUST BETWEEN US... Sh! We have the latest gossip!

DEVON’S DAREDEVIL One man and his bike

HONOURING HEROINES

FRESH-FACED Our beauty expert’s tips to get the glow

The South West charity championing women survivors

WATERSIDE LIVING A tranquil riverside retreat

JUST ASK GRACIE Our style guru solves your problems

ATHLETIC APPAREL The coolest ways to lounge around

BOOST YOUR WELLBEING Great ways to feel your best this week

HAPPY HOUR April Marks tries a new South West gin

SPECIAL BREWS Darren Norbury on speciality ales

SECRET WESTCOUNTRY Where to go, what to do

ANTI-SOCIAL MEDIA Chris McGuire gives up the smartphone

FIND YOUR STRIDE Great ways to feel your best this week

I LIKE THE WAY YOU MOVE

Workout gear to get you in the zone

Contents_Aug27.indd 3

19/08/2016 17:04:50

VINTAGE SEASIDE FUN

Retro surfing at Holywell Bay

[ welcome [ Face your fears.... hey say that you should do one thing every day that scares you. For some of us this might be trying a new lipstick shade or working up the courage to try a new dance class. Lycra + strangers = terrifying. Sometimes though, the fear is on a whole different level. On page 16 this week we meet three women who have overcome terrifying odds in the form of illness, domestic abuse and addiction to become role models for the Tiverton-based charity Beauty Unseen. In a glittering event to be held in October a total of nine participants will share their stories dressed in high fashion en-

[

of the week

[

sembles, including one frock by Dame Vivienne Westwood herself. Now that’s a happy ending. Do you ever wonder if some people are immune to fear? Take mountain biker Andrei Burton from Exeter for example. Whether balancing on the edge of a 30ft drop or making it into the finals of ITV’s Ninja Warrior UK he is unflappable. Find out why Dartmoor is his favourite place to train on page 12. Oh, he is also ever so handsome. Speaking of gorgeous views, we think you’ll like the riverside property we have on page 22 this week. Light, spacious and perfect for big family celebrations, it is the ideal Westcountry bolthole.

[

Find out why Dartmoor is his favourite place to train on page 12

@gastrobusbeach Gastrotreats at Bantham The home of the macaron ice cream sandwich @WMNWest

TO ADVERTISE: Contact Cathy Long: 01752 293017 or 07557 576668, clong@dc-media.co.uk

Becky Sheaves, Editor

EDITORIAL: westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk Tel: 01392 442250 Twitter @wmnwest

COVER IMAGE: Matt Austin

MEET THE TEAM Becky Sheaves, Editor

Phil Goodwin

Kathryn Clarke-McLeod

Gillian Molesworth

Cathy Long

EdsLetter_1thing_Aug27.indd 4

22/08/2016 16:01:38

If you do one thing this week... Light up the barbeque and treat the family to the highest quality organic offerings in the form of Everfield Organicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Organic BBQ Box. Delivered directly to your door, the box includes spicy chicken wings, gluten-free beef burgers, sausages and lamb cutlets as well as chicken thighs and drumsticks. All meat is reared on and around the 450-acre Eversfield Farm in Devon, set on the edge of Dartmoor National Park. The beef and lamb come from animals grass-fed for life, while the pork comes from pigs allowed to roam freely around the farm and the chicken is free-range and cornfed. Delicious and ethical! www.eversfieldorganic.co.uk

Win

We have two Eversfield Organic BBQ Boxes to be won, worth ÂŁ30 each. To be in with a chance, simply tell us which National Park is next to the Eversfield farm. Send your answers, together with your full contact details, to: Eversfield BBQ Box, westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk to arrive by September 10. Normal terms apply, West magazine will not share your details. 5

EdsLetter_1thing_Aug27.indd 5

19/08/2016 16:47:09

COOL CASH Mid Century poppy travel card holder £3.95 Dotcomgiftshop

the

wishlist

Bang and Olufsen BeoPlay H5 Headphones in Dusty Rose £199 www.beoplay.com

West’s top picks for spending your time and money this week

Blue daisy box set £40 for a 12-piece set Sainsbury’s Home

MELLOW Double pouch cross body £85 Jaeger

HOTPOT Coral coffee pot £6.99 HomeSense

Wishlist_August27.indd 6

19/08/2016 12:06:14

Wishlist

Tessa table lamp £56 House of Fraser

BED TIME Off-beat geo panel bedding £29 Very

Floral double-layer top £25 Bonmarche

fave! Pale blue bowfront mid-block heels £19.99 New Look

HYPNOTIC Coral hurricane £30 Debenhams

Wishlist_August27.indd 7

19/08/2016 12:06:40

talking points Gillian Molesworth

Story of my life... From a handshake to a hug, Olympic style he Olympics are always a treat, and well done Great Britain! What an amazing medal count. Huge cheers to the Olympics team that had such vision and worked so hard to bring the Olympics to London in 2012, and also set up all those fantastic programmes that est person in the world? That’s are now bearing fruit. What an pretty straightforward. Others, achievement. like men’s gymnastics, carry the I saw a clip on the internet weight of tradition. showing how sport has evolved And some are baffling. Ping since the modern Olympics first pong and badminton, for example began in 1896. It showed TV clips – are those really Olympic sports? from the 1930s, comparing the To me they’re things you play winners and their winning times on the lawn or in a shed during to the 2016 athletes. The runners summer holidays. Beach volleythat finished first in the old clips ball. Really? In no way would I would have been eighth in today’s denigrate the amazing achievegames. Amazing how sport itself ment and hard work of any of has evolved. those players, but honestly I In those days, it would have thought that beach volleyball was been a hearty handshake for the chiefly a way for California beachwinners – how would those stiff goers to show off their gym-toned upper lip Britmuscles and cosmetish athletes have ic surgery. coped with toIt’s all about uniAnd some day’s culture of versality though, hugging? Blame isn’t it? I was fasciare baffling. the Americans. nated to see a team Ping pong and We are a nation of sport I had literally badminton, for huggers. never seen in my I do miss Amerlife. On a court that example – are ican hugs. There’s reminded me of a those really a technique to lacrosse field, a team them: you come of shouting women Olympic sports? in with your arms flung a ball to each angled, one up one other, sometimes down, so the other dribbling it on the person can lock in. Then there’s a ground, and hurling it towards a good friendly torso squeeze. Often goal. Turns out it was handball, I come in to hug a British person the athletic lingua franca of counand they sort of freeze midway, tries, if not continents. leaving you with a bony shoulder Well, it’s all been a jolly enlior elbow in the soft bits, and the vening experience, and I shall be feeling you’ve done something sorry not to see those striving parslightly intrusive. agons on the telly for another four I did enjoy watching the great years. It will be interesting to see athletic endeavours. Some of if it results in more people taking them are pretty easy to “get”, up athletics – or getting better at like running. Who is the fastgiving hugs.

MELLOW

in yellow Izzy Bizu, 22, is an up-and-coming young singer whose song ‘La Foule’ was the theme tune of the Euro 2016 football championships. Izzy did her best to brighten up an otherwise gloomy day in Gloucester recently, supporting singer Jess Glynne, in a pair of bright yellow trousers. Why not add a little sunshine to your wardrobe with one of these options we’ve tracked down?

Twiggy woven trousers £35 Marks & Spencer

steal her

style

OR MAKE IT YOUR OWN

OPTION A Cropped Ankle grazer jeans £22 M&Co

OPTION B Casual Chino trousers £55 Laura Ashley

Gillian Molesworth is a journalist and mum-of-two who grew up in the USA and moved to north Cornwall when she met her husband. 8

MoleyGossip_Aug27.indd 8

23/08/2016 11:50:56

27.08.16

Just

CAREY’S ON THE CASE CAREY MULLIGAN, who has a home in the village of Ide in Devon, has become the first UK Global Dementia Friends Ambassador. Her new role will focus on the importance of dementia-friendly provision. The Oscar-nominated actress, who is married to Marcus Mumford of Mumford & Sons, has long been a supporter of the Alzheimer’s So-

[ [

ciety. Her grandmother Margaret, known as “Nans”, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2004. “My Nans has dementia and I have experienced first-hand how devastating it can be,” says Carey. “It’s so important that everyone affected by the condition is treated with the respect and dignity that they deserve. At the moment, there’s not nearly enough awareness.” Good for you, Carey.

Gossip, news, trend setters and more – you heard all the latest juicy stuff here first!

STRICTLY BECKONS FOR WILL

‘It’s been ten years - time to renew our wedding vows, Rod’

FEELING BLESSED SIR ROD STEWART’S wife PENNY LANCASTER has revealed the couple have privately renewed their wedding vows ahead of their tenth anniversary - to rid their new house of negative spirits. The 45-year-old model married Rod, 71, in 2007 and they have recently moved into an 18th century estate in Essex. The pair plan a grand renewal of their vows in Italy next year

between us

but Penny has revealed they have already secretly had a ceremony. “I wanted the priest to bless the house because I felt there was a lot of history and old spirits there: We wanted to say thank you to the old and welcome in the new. So we walked into the garden, under the largest oak tree there, and we said our vows again, just Rod, myself and the priest. It was beautiful.”

Will Young, who went to Exeter University, will strut his stuff in Strictly Come Dancing 2016, he has revealed: “As a fan of Strictly for years, I have always imagined myself on the show, but the timing has not been right... until now!” he says. “Music is my passion and the dancing I have done has always been with a microphone in hand. Now there will be no microphone or band, just me, my partner and the dance floor. “Strictly is a show with fantastic

live music and has an ethos of positivity and growth. I practise these two things every day, and I will try my hardest to be the best dancer possible.” The former Pop Idol winner is no stranger to performing on entertainment TV, of course, having beaten bookies’ favourite Gareth Gates in the final showdown of Simon Cowell’s inaugural series back in 2002. Good luck, Will!

MoleyGossip_Aug27.indd 9

19/08/2016 16:00:24

With a bang: Penny Cross captured the National Firework Championships on Plymouth Hoe

in pictures Rock gods: The Kaiser Chiefs played at Boardmasters, Newquay

Young handler: Richard Austin took this sweet picture at Honiton Show

In the stars: The Perseid meteor shower looked spectacular at Budleigh Salterton 10

WIP_GOSSIP_AUG27.indd 10

19/08/2016 16:39:31

talking points A history

of the

WEST in

100

objects 9: Prisoner of war model

QUIZ Of the Week:

Dartmoor or Plymouth, 1793–1815

How Westcountry is:

Your house? 1. Do you live in: A) An eco-home, with grass roof, which we built ourselves. B) A locals-only new-build scheme in the village where I grew up. C) Surrey during the week, Rock or Salcombe at weekends.

4. Where do your guests stay when they visit? A. In the yurt, in the garden. B) Ideally, at mum and dad’s place – you can’t swing a cat in our house. C) In the guest cottage. £590 a week.

2. What is in your garden right now? A. Homegrown tomatoes, beans, fennel, chickens and a yurt B) A kids’ paddling pool, a play tent, a climbing frame and some gone-toseed forget-me-nots. C) What are those blue ones called? Hydrangeas? And the gardener.

5. How often do you see your neighbours? A. All the time, for barbecues and get-togethers. B) We are into the fourth generation of a feud, dating back to a Methodist picnic in 1952. C) Alas, it is all holiday homes around here. Such a shame.

3. What do you cook on? A. A wood-fired pizza oven. B) A bog-standard electric cooker. It was there when we moved in. C) A four oven Aga… doesn’t everyone?

6. Where would you like to live next? A Happy where we are, thanks. B) We dream of more space but can’t see how it could ever happen. C) Once we retire, we’ll live here full time. Can’t wait.

results:

Mostly As) You’re quite Westcountry. Even though you moved here from the Home Counties for the beaches and mountain biking.

Julien Parsons is the Senior Collections Officer, The Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter. He says: Treasures wrought from gold or silver have their place in this selection of 100 objects but so do artefacts crafted from throwaways, which often display as much skill and more resourcefulness. This extraordinary bone model is a lesson in the power of people to create art in dire circumstances. Each and every carved and painted soldier, scaffold pole and fold in the drapery is made from bones saved by 19th-century prisoners of war. If properly cleaned and boiled, even sheep and cow bones from joints and stews can be used to make beautiful artefacts. Of course you needed great dexterity and time – and the prisoners had plenty of both. Often portrayed as a battle

Made from bones saved by 19th century prisoners of war Mostly Bs) You are totally Westcountry and that hasn’t always been easy for you. Life’s tough but you are truly local – hang on in there.

Mostly Cs) Sorry, not Westcountry at all. Great Aga though.

between Britain and France, in truth, most of Europe was gripped by war in the wake of the execution of Louis XVI in 1793 and the rise of Napoleon. Over 100,000 prisoners were held in Britain for years - not just French soldiers and sailors but men and their families from Denmark, Poland, Italy, Spain, Holland, America and elsewhere. Captives held in overcrowded ‘hulks’ (prison ships) off Plymouth or at Dartmoor prison made this model. They often banded together to create elaborate pieces that they sold for high prices at local markets. It was enough to eke out an existence before peace finally arrived in 1815.

On display in Plymouth: Port and Place gallery, Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery until 3 September. Competition winners: Congratulations to Christine Porter from Bradninch, who has won a £50 Princesshay Shopping Centre gift card.

WIP_GOSSIP_AUG27.indd 11

19/08/2016 16:39:59

Interview

Not your average

rock star No, this is not a trick photograph - Andrei Burton from Exeter really is the ultimate mountain biking daredevil. Fran McElhone finds out more... ndrei Burton loves to cycle - but not on the flat. A crop of granite boulders is more what he is after: “I come up here to Dartmoor, put my headphones on and can ride for six hours straight,” he says. “I’m the happiest person in the world and can’t believe other people don’t do this! I feel really sad when I meet someone who doesn’t have a passion in life.” Andrei’s passion is also his profession and has made him the best mountain bike trials rider in Britain and in the top 10 globally. Recently turning 30, Andrei first fell for the sport aged 13 after seeing a group of boys doing tricks on their bikes on the steps by Exeter Cathedral, entering his first competition a year later. He now spends between 20 and 40 hours a week training and has spent “thousands of hours” practising on Dartmoor over the past few years. You may have seen him in the media, doing everything from competing in the Ninja Warrior TV

ANDREI_FATURE1_Aug27.indd 12

19/08/2016 12:37:39

photography: fran mcElhone

ANDREI_FATURE1_Aug27.indd 13

19/08/2016 13:07:12

Andrei has travelled the globe but Dartmoor remains his favourite destination

show to advertising multi-vitamins. He is the besuited commuter on a folding bike who suddenly cycles down stairs, along a wall and over benches in the Berocca ad to the catchline: “You, but on a really good day.” What is more, Andrei has been all over the world with his bike, reeling off a long list of countries including Argentina, Australia, Canada, and Japan. He spends most winters training in Spain. But it’s Dartmoor that tops them all. Why? “Look at it!” he grins, throwing his arms out. “What more could you want?” Andrei says Cape Town, in South Africa, comes a close second to Dartmoor. “You’ve got Table Mountain in the background,” he says. “And whereas you’ve got sheep and ponies here, there you’ve got penguins and sharks.” So in demand is Andrei, that he struggles to describe his average week. “I’ve driven 16,000 miles, flown to three different countries, driven to Scotland twice and Europe twice, all in the past ten weeks,” he says. Over the years, Andrei has broken numerous world records, like the highest ever side hop on to a platform (157 and a half centimetres) and high-

est vertical drop on to a target. He’s appeared in several Top Gear Live shows, where he rides a bike on moving cars – the only rider in the world to take on this feat. He certainly looks invincible - he’s so at one with his bike it’s like an extension of him. “I feel naked without it!” he grins when I suggest he might abandon it for a few of the photos. But, perhaps unsurprisingly, his career has been punctuated with injury - he’s broken his shoulder, his hands, and has had 22 stitches in his face. His worst injury was crushing two discs in his back, which kept him off his bike for three months. He says the sport is: “50 per cent mental attitude, and 50 per cent physical skill. It’s like playing chess but getting sweaty! “There are riders I’ll beat in competitions because they are weak mentally.” Andrei grew up in Exmouth and was educated at the small private school of St Wilfrid’s in Exeter before moving to the city aged 16, where he started working as a bike mechanic. Then, when the invites to perform started multiplying - nowadays he does an average of 100 appearances a year - he went for biking as a full

‘I’ve sacrificed everything.

I’ve had relationships break

up because of my riding’

ANDREI_FATURE1_Aug27.indd 14

19/08/2016 13:08:32

Interview time career. “I’ve sacrificed everything – I don’t see my family very much and I’ve had relationships break up because of my riding,” he admits. So if you see him on his bike, don’t tell him he’s fortunate to do what he loves for a living. “I actually hate it when people say, ‘You’re so lucky to ride your bike for a career’, when they don’t know what I’ve been through to get here. “I don’t know why I’m so driven,” he adds. “I’ve got quite a competitive personality, so maybe it’s that. I don’t think about myself competing with others, only against myself, to be the best version of myself I can be. “But money can’t buy the feeling after having a good day riding – it’s like a weird euphoria. “My whole career has been an accident really. I never set out to be a professional mountain bike rider. I still don’t. It was never a conscious decision.” But what he loves most about his job is inspiring the younger generation to take up sports, and he has worked with Devon County Council to do just that. And with his work ethic, if anyone is up to that job, it’s Andrei. “Trials biking is hard and takes a lot of work. That’s why a lot of people give up and jump on a

BMX bike instead,” he says. “But I would say to young people wanting to get into trials - or any other sport - is to enjoy the process of learning and set yourself small goals. I always break a challenge down into small goals that are achievable.” It is now time for Andrei to return to “paperwork and spreadsheets”, which need to be done so he has time for an evening bouldering session at Quay Climbing in Exeter. So I aim a few quickfire questions at him: What makes you angry? “Cruelty to animals,” says the man who has a 5ft Cuban red iguana, three other reptiles, and a cat as pets. “And, do you know what really makes me mad? People leaving rubbish, it drives me insane, I just don’t understand it!” Messy or tidy? “My girlfriend would probably say messy!” What makes you annoyed? “When people ask me why I have no seat on my bike,” he jokes. “Especially when I’m balancing 20 foot up on a granite boulder, mid trick!” Remember that if you see him out and about, everyone. Andrei Burton will be performing on Sidmouth beach at the start of Stage Six of the Tour of Britain bike race on Friday, September 9

ANDREI_FATURE1_Aug27.indd 15

19/08/2016 13:11:27

BEAUTY IN ALL ITS FORMS Gracie Stewart discovers a very special South West charity which champions women who have overcome adversity

Feature_Aug27.indd 16

19/08/2016 14:15:36

People

From left, inspirational role models Caroline Sykes, Fiona Richardson and Kirstie Tancock

hen you think of models and catwalk shows, what usually springs to mind? All too often, it will be identikit beauties parading perfect bodies and lives. However, one Westcountry woman is seeking to change all that, with a ground-breaking project that seeks to celebrate the very special beauty of women who have overcome adversity. Roz Thomas, 36, from Tiverton, has set up a charity called Beauty Unseen. Its aim is to break down social barriers by focusing on people who have overcome challenges to lead fulfilling lives.

Feature_Aug27.indd 17

23/08/2016 12:04:57

Roz, who lives in Devon, says the charity aims to use film, social media and a live fashion show to change perceptions. “We have selected nine role models from the South-West,” she explains. “Some have battled illness, others have disabilities or have overcome addiction. Each story can teach us all something new about how to be more inclusive, or where to find help if we find ourselves in a similar situation,” says Roz. Each role model is also using the project to raise awareness of a charity of their choice that has helped them along their journey, signposting

‘Each story can tell us all something more about how to be more inclusive’ others in similar situations to seek help. The first ever Beauty Unseen event will take place on Saturday October 1 in the Fashion Pavilion in The Mall at Cribbs Causeway in Bristol. Each of the nine role models will share their stories through a five-minute presentation of cutting-edge music, dance and film. And each will wear one outfit designed by a fashion designer for their performance – one model, Caroline Sykes, will be wearing an outfit donated by none other than fashion superstar Vivienne Westwood. Here, we meet three of the models who will be taking part. We are sure you will be both impressed and moved by their remarkable stories. www.beautyunseen.org

Roz Thomas (left) and the Beauty Unseen team filming in John Lewis in Exeter

Fiona Richardson with Ant and Dec on Britain’s Got Talent

Fiona Richardson Fiona, 43, is from west Cornwall, and has built a new life for herself and her son after courageously escaping an abusive relationship. She now teaches dance to children, and is eager to encourage a strong sense of self-esteem in them Fiona says: At 17 years old I found myself in a violent and abusive relationship, which isolated me from family and friends. I became pregnant, thinking that would help, but the abuse escalated. When my baby was born, I feared for my own safety and that of my baby, so I fled in the night to a women’s refuge. The next day, I caught a train to the other end of the country to start a new life with my three-month-old baby boy. At 18 I can honestly say my life was a mess. I was re-housed in a run-down estate, which has since been demolished, and I was a victim of robbery and other crime. Although I had a few positive people around me, I fell in with a bad crowd. I tried to make a fresh start but kept being dealt knock-backs. I felt sorry for myself and alone and fell into what I felt was an unchangeable position. I became a victim and not a survivor.

Feature_Aug27.indd 18

23/08/2016 12:05:48

Kirstie Tancock Kirstie, 26, is from Honiton, east Devon and has survived two double lung transplants and has lived with cystic fibrosis from birth. She believes strongly that exercise helps to keep you strong and is herself a teacher of fitness pole-dancing, aerial hoop and aerial silks classes

Kirstie getting measured for the fashion show

Luckily for me, I re-established contact with my family and my parents found me a place to rent closer to them. Once again, I moved home with just the bare essentials to start afresh, and this move changed my life. My son settled in an amazing school and, after he told the teachers there that I was a dancer, they asked me to teach some lessons to the schoolchildren. That dance class grew and grew. In 2008, when my son was 18, we entered Britain’s Got Talent for a giggle and ended up making the live show. The nation’s press highlighted us and overnight my dance school went from 50 to 400 members. Today I am happily married and run The Big Dance Company in Cornwall. I have provided dancers for professional work involving the likes of Take That, Stella McCartney, The Body Shop International, Audi and Alton Towers. Last year I was lucky enough to win the Pride of Penwith award and was invited to lunch with the Queen, right here in Cornwall. I do still struggle with nightmares and anxiety but I feel blessed for my second chance. Beauty Unseen is an amazing project that really highlights your possibilities no matter what your situation. I am proud and honored to have been selected to take part.

Fiona today sharing her story with the Beauty Unseen team

Kirstie says: I’ve had so many health problems in my life. As a child I had problems with my breathing and digestion and was diagnosed with the genetic condition cystic fibrosis. I also developed juvenile chronic arthritis at the age of seven, so I spent a lot of my childhood in a wheelchair. When I was 14 I nearly died after suffering undiagnosed appendicitis for several months and this illness triggered the start of cystic fibrosis-related diabetes. After leaving school I started my own business teaching fitness pole dancing but in 2011 my health declined to the extent that I was placed on the waiting list for a double lung transplant, which was really my only hope of survival at that stage. I wanted to live life to the full and so I got married to my wonderful husband Stuart. But two weeks after my wedding I was air-lifted to Harefield Hospital in London and received my desperately-needed lung transplant. I then had two wonderful years of good health. Unfortunately in 2013 I suffered rejection of the transplant and all efforts to save my new lungs failed. Things looked unbelievably bleak but I was extremely lucky to receive a second double lung transplant. After my second transplant, even though I knew it had saved my life, I suffered depression and anxiety as a result of all the trauma I had been through. I also went through an early menopause due to the radiation therapy I had received. In April of this year I was diagnosed with chronic rejection of my new lungs once again but I’m much more hopeful the treatment will work this time. Despite all of this, today I’m teaching fitness pole dancing, aerial hoop, aerial silks. My dream is to continue to tell my story to encourage others to live their lives to the full. And I want to love my life with my family. 19

Feature_Aug27.indd 19

23/08/2016 12:06:04

People

Caroline Sykes Caroline, 39, is from Tiverton, Devon. She had a tough start to life and has overcome a number of challenges, including abuse, drug and alcohol addiction and mental illness. She now works with deaf children with challenging behaviour and wants to use her spotlight at the Beauty Unseen Show to encourage the public not to give up on people who appear to be “a lost cause” Caroline says: As a child I had a very difficult life. My father was an alcoholic and my mother was constantly in and out of psychiatric wards. Sadly, in 1982, when I was only just at primary school, Mum took her own life. I grew up in care and at 16 years old I left home having already experimented with drugs. By 22 I had tried rehab but I kept returning to drinking as a way of coping. In my 20s I got married but it ended in divorce, as my husband couldn’t handle my emotional problems. My self-harm increased and I attempted suicide on several occasions. In 2004 I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder. Over the next ten years I truly struggled. Thankfully, through the power of therapy, I am now drug and alcohol-free. Even better, I am now well enough to help others and I work with deaf children who have challenging behaviours. I have three dogs, I have bought a house, I am debt-free and I’m getting married to an amazing man named Ray. With the help of Beauty Unseen, I want to show young people that they should never be ashamed of who they are, especially if they have mental health problems. We all have it within ourselves to be the best version of ourselves. I am proof of this.

Caroline during fittings for the show

Caroline and her artwork for the show

Feature_Aug27.indd 20

19/08/2016 14:16:59

interiors

recipe

events

explore 21

Untitled-1 21

23/08/2016 11:12:41

Interiors_August 27.indd 22

19/08/2016 11:53:46

Interiors

Views to behold It took construction consultant Norman Biddle three months to persuade the owners of a tired south Devon bungalow to sell to him, but the transformation into a meticulous family home with spectacular views ensured it was time well spent by Charlotte Dear

hen Norman Biddle and his wife stumbled upon this idyllic slice of the South Hams overlooking the River Yealm and National Trust woodland beyond some 27 years ago, they knew there was no going back. After three months of persuasion, the previous owners finally agreed to sell White Cottage so that construction consultant Norman could set about transforming the rather tired chalet bungalow into the meticulously designed arts and crafts style family home it is today. “There was just one toilet and you had to stand on your toes to look out of the window and see the view; there really was no other option but to knock it down and start again,” recalls Norman. The rebuild took one year from start to finish and Norman and the architect were careful to use local suppliers, tradesmen and materials wherever possible. “Throughout the house we have added granite features, including a decorative column in the kitchen and the large fireplace in the drawing room, which was inspired by a similar one in nearby Puslinch House. The oak flooring is about the only feature of the original property we decided to retain.” With its oil-fired heating system, thick insulation and low-energy lighting throughout, this property has clearly been designed to provide low maintenance, energy efficient and economically sound living.

Interiors_August 27.indd 23

23/08/2016 12:07:01

Interiors

Downstairs the reception rooms, with their imposing fireplaces, high ceilings and picture frame windows set the scene for many a family gathering and celebration. Sympathetically decorated by Ashburton’s Ashton House Design, neutral wall tones contrast with soft pastel furnishings to create a serene and elegant flow from room to room. The master bedroom arguably enjoys the best views of the house, thanks to a very considerate brainwave from Norman. “Five years after the build, I said to my wife ‘you haven’t enough wardrobe space; we should build a bigger bedroom,’ ‘The property is so we extended to create the south-facing so rounded bay window and balwe tend to enjoy cony overlooking the water – it was all her fault!” meals outside The bedroom also enjoys a all year round as recently refurbished master long as the sun bathroom, complete with Italian fittings to include a large walkis shining’ in shower with rain bar and whirlpool bath. The neighbouring bedroom also benefits from a breathtaking balcony, while at the other side of the impressively wide staircase another bedroom overlooks the water. There is one further bedroom and two family bathrooms on this floor, while a galleried study hovers above the sunny kitchen and breakfast room below. Re-fitted six years ago, the kitchen features granite worktops, Fired Earth wall tiles, a twooven Aga, feature ceiling beams and a sunny breakfast area beyond. “The property is southfacing so we tend to enjoy meals outside all year Lots of the rooms enjoy spectacular views round as long as the sun is shining,” enthuses

[[

Soft pastel furnishings create a serene and elegant flow from room to room

Norman. “This area is also home to a population of geckos, which presumably came over with the Italian stone and marble so when the sun is shining you really could be in the Mediterranean! A lot of people who buy in Newton Ferrers want to be right on the waterfront, but down there you don’t have the incredible stillness and privacy of this garden.” Stocked with mature shrubs and trees, the sloped garden is very easily maintained and also features a dry stone turret currently used as a storeroom, which Norman swiftly altered so that it was child-friendly. White Cottage is within easy walking distance of Newton Ferrers village. Once in the village, a pub, post office, community store, yacht club, chemist and butchers offer residents most essentials without having to get in the car. With 16 grandchildren ranging in age from two to 26, Norman and his wife are moving house to be able to accommodate their expanding family, but the removal van will not have far to go. “We’re relocating next door!” explains Norman. “With the annual regatta, a fantastic primary school, excellent walks and sailing facilities there is something for everyone – we will never leave!” White Cottage is for sale with Luscombe Maye for £1.695 million www.luscombemaye.com

Interiors_August 27.indd 24

23/08/2016 12:10:01

GET THE

LOOK

Soft pastel furnishings can create an air of serenity and elegance Checked cushion £16 M&Co

Cookhouse wall clock £60 Laura Ashley

Wall tile £6 Sainsbury’s

Josie striped rug £135 Cuckooland

Armchair £569 Houseology 25

Interiors_August 27.indd 25

23/08/2016 12:10:57

Ask Gracie... Want to look your best this week? Our styling expert Gracie Stewart of Exeter can help you look your best, in every possible way. All you have to do is ask...

And that’s flat...

Emico loafers £69.95 Moda in Pelle

Tan sandals £17.99 New Look

How can I wear flat shoes without looking shorter than I already am? FE, Plymouth Speaking from personal experience, when you are on Q the shorter side, flats can be extremely intimidating. But being aware of little details like colour, cut, strap placement and shoe-to-hemline ratio makes all the difference on a petite girl. Wearing flats with long trousers does nothing but drown a shorter frame. Cropped pants will create more space between your shoes and the bottom of your hem, making legs appear longer than they actually are. Nude coloured shoes help create a seamless transition from leg to foot, so make the most of this optical illusion. Flats with a pointed toe, even in darker colours, also create a more streamlined silhouette for your legs.

Ballet flats £10 George at ASDA

Gracie_August27.indd 26

19/08/2016 15:51:20

Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 £22 M.A.C Cosmetics

Good foundations I’ve tried every foundation on the market but I still can’t seem to achieve that flawless, yet miraculously natural-looking skin. Am I using the wrong products or is it my application? BV, St Austell

Ever wonder why beauty editors always have good skin? Because we know how to fake it - and fake it well. When it comes to foundation, unless you have severe acne or rosacea, most women only really need foundation near their T-zone. Distribute most of the product on your forehead, nose, and cheeks, then buff the rest outward (this will

also help you avoid the dreaded foundation line around the jawline). Don’t be afraid to mix and match your products. Want a sheer tint? Just mix some moisturiser in. Want a glowing visage without the shine? Mix a primer with a radiance-boosting product and apply to your skin before foundation. I recommend using a beauty sponge to smooth out any dry areas. If you’ve finished applying foundation and discover any flakiness, simply dab a dampened beauty sponge in a light moisturiser, then press over the area. Your foundation will bond with any flakes and leave you with a smooth, fresh finish.

Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation £37 House of Fraser

Gracie’s shopping list Multicoloured lace pencil skirt £24.99 New Look A chic and edgy addition to your wardrobe, this pretty and striking pencil skirt is perfect for nights out.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stayin-Place Makeup SPF 10 £31 Boots

Dressing for two I’m four months pregnant and have no idea how to dress my growing bump. Do I really have to buy maternity wear? KS, Dorchester

Clinique AntiBlemish line correcting serum £39 Boots Developed specifically for adult skin that is experiencing breakouts along with lines and wrinkles, this gentle and hydrating formula helps clear blemishes without dryness or irritation.

Pregnancy style can be a challenge. Do you conceal your bump with pretty loose boho dresses or wear it with pride in form-fitting clothes? When you’re five, six or seven months pregnant, I say you should accentuate your tum because it’s a truly beautiful thing. You don’t want to look fatter when you’re pregnant, so it’s a fine line, but stretchy lycra dresses will show off your shape in a good way. The only maternity wear I would recommend buying is a pair of jeans as they have a hidden adjustable panel that will give your stomach extra support. Buy cheap

Kimball bodycon dress £6 Primark Hourglass wrap dress £35 Evans Ruched velvet bodycon dress £19.99 New Look

basics that will stretch as your belly grows. Wrap dresses are a great option, too, as the cut is comfortable, and there are no annoying buttons. Plus, plunging necklines look great on

W3LL PEOPLE Bio Brightener Kit £33 www.CultBeauty.co.uk Uniting the superb Bio Brightener Stick and Invisible Powder, these perfect partners are the secret to a stunning, soft focus skinfinish – think photographic filter for your face.

pregnant women. Steer clear of bright colours, satin (it’s not a forgiving fabric) and loud prints. Look for solid colour tops and dresses. Also, don’t be afraid to get your legs out.

Got a style or beauty question? Email Gracie at westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk with the subject Ask Gracie

Gracie_August27.indd 27

19/08/2016 15:55:26

Jumper £28 top £18 leggings £20 all Evans

Crop Top, £12.99, New Look

The fitness files

thleisure is the latest buzzword in the fashion and athletic industry and it’s a trend that’s here to stay, spurred on no doubt by the recent excitement of the Rio Olympics. It’s that gym-to-the-office look that’s incredibly popular because of its versatile and comfortable look and feel. When it comes to athleisure, the key is to invest in pieces that mix function and fashion. First and foremost, choose clothing made using performance fabrics so they are not see-through when you bend forward, you can’t see cellulite through them, and you’re not going to get a muffin top. Feeling unsure? Start with a geometric print or stick to black, white and grey - then move into brighter colours as you get more comfortable with this sporting life.

Fashion_Aug27.indd 28

23/08/2016 13:57:51

Fashion

Athleisure trainers £28 Evans

fave! Hooded jacket £18 F&F

Activewear leggings £20 Evans

Sports bra £22.50 White Stuff

Snake print vest £12.99 New Look

Trainers £22 F&F 29

Fashion_Aug27.indd 29

19/08/2016 16:43:06

Wellbeing

the boost

Life just got better. Our wellness guru Charlotte Dear has handpicked the latest health secrets and expert advice to help you be your best self, everyday

ONE-STOP SHOP If you’re in the area, drop into Combe Martin’s new health food shop, Heart’s Desire. Stocking a range of natural skincare products and nutritional treats as well as healing crystals, this is a one-stop shop for the feel-good factor inside and out. On a mission to improve wellbeing across north Devon, owner Amanda-Jayne Staddon will be offering educational workshops for the community and working with local schools to promote healthy, nutritional diets.

XXXX xxxxx

Boots on! Explore the glorious Cheddar Gorge this long weekend as you join the Ramblers for their 15th annual free walking festival. With three walks to choose from each day, each with varying levels of difficulty, follow an experienced rambler over this diverse landscape across the moors and Mendips before tucking into a well-deserved slice of cake in the village. www.cheddarwalking.org.uk 30

Boost_Aug27.indd 30

19/08/2016 14:30:34

WHY TEA TIME IS GOOD FOR YOU Us Brits certainly don’t need too much persuading when it comes to getting our daily quota of tea but research shows that different types of tea can benefit our physical and mental wellbeing in different ways. Sticking with good old English Breakfast simply won’t cut it. This month, try mixing up those tea breaks with peppermint, oolong, camomile, green tea and even coffee leaf – the results might just surprise you.

Mmm... SPA QUALITY Annual organic food and music festival Valley Fest returns to the Chew Valley on the weekend of September 2-4. 2016 promises a particularly exciting event with the launch of the festival’s new spa and wellbeing area. Overlooking its lakeside setting, feed your soul with yoga, lakeside hot tubs, wellbeing and beauty treatments to the calming sounds of acoustic singers, drum circles and discussions. www.valleyfest.co.uk What’s coming up? Tweet us your wellbeing diary dates

Whet your appetite and top up your Omega-3 levels this Bank Holiday Monday at Newlyn Fish Festival. Pick up cookery tips, enjoy live music, and watch the Fishmonger of the Year competition at this fun event, all in aid of the Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen. www.newlynfishfestival.org.uk @WMNWest or email westmag@westernmorningnews.co.uk 31

Boost_Aug27.indd 31

19/08/2016 14:31:14

Wellbeing

Sun kissed? A tan is one thing but age spots are quite another, says our expert

I have some brown spots and patches on my face that seem to get worse in the sun. How are they caused and how can I get rid of them to make them look less visible? GA, Launceston

Medical aesthetician Dr Pradnya Apte says: These brown spots or patches are caused by a variety of reasons that include sun exposure and hormone changes. Also known as hyperpigmentation, the condition can also occur as a side effect of certain aesthetic treatments such as laser hair removal, particularly on darker skins. The main cause of these brown spots, however, is sun exposure. You are likely to develop pigmentation in skin that is exposed to UV radiation, especially as the skin ages. Areas of the skin affected often include the face, backs of hands, shoulders and forearms. A brownish patch that develops on the face after sun exposure is called melasma. It is due to overproduction of melanin by the pigment cells called melanocytes, which is then deposited in the dermis. UV exposure deepens the pigmentation because it activates the melanocytes to produce more melanin. It is more common in women than men and its appearance can be quite distressing to the individual. Melasma formation cannot be totally avoided but the incidence can be reduced by simple preventation. Avoid sun exposure, especially

between the hours 11am-3pm, when the sunâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with topical agents so adjunctive procedures rays are the most intense. You should also wear such as chemical peels, micro-dermabrasion or sunscreen daily, choosing a minimum of SPF30 microneedling may be used for more stubborn containing both UVA and UVB protection. This cases. is vital to protect the skin from all photo-ageing These all have to be exercised with caution due effects. I also recommend wearing protective to an increased risk of hyperpigmentation. Reclothing such as long-sleeved clothes and a hat sults are normally seen after a few treatments. in the sun. It can also be treated with Treatments are now availlasers, but this should be apable for pigmentation in the proached with caution in skin. Hydroquinone is a skindarker skins too, as the pigYou are likely lightening agent that has been mentation can be made worse to develop clinically proven to reduce post-treatment. pigmentation in the right conThere are some newer treatpigmentation centrations. But recent cliniments that have been found to in skin that cal research has shown pigreduce melasma in a effective mentation can get worse once way and I personally recomis exposed to the treatment has stopped, so mend one such treatment to UV radiation, it has to be carefully controlmy clients. especially as the led by a qualified medical aesIt is called The Perfect Peel thetic practitioner. and works on all skin types. skin ages There are other skin lightThe beauty of this treatment ening topical treatments availis that it contains glutathione, able that do not contain hydwhich is best known for its roquinone. Kojic acid as part anti-ageing benefits. It is a of a skincare treatment is well known to reduce medical grade peel so it can only be offered by pigmentation as well and I offer such skincare in doctors,dentists or registered nurses, but well my clinic, using products from Image Skincare. worth a try. You can find out more at www.thepAny medication to treat pigmentation should erfectpeel.co.uk. be taken under advice in a Medical Aesthetic Dr Pradnya Apte runs the Revitalise-Rejuvenate Clinic as this condition is a very difficult condimediclinic in Exeterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Southernhay. Call 01392 tion to treat. 426285 or visit www.revitalise-rejuvenate.co.uk for Not all cases of pigmentation can be treated more details.

[[

WELLBEING_TIM_AUG27.indd 32

23/08/2016 12:12:06

Ingredient of the Week

Fennel flowers with Tim Maddams

am loving the summer bounty. colleagues over the years – and I also like the The courgettes, tomatoes, beetroot, dried-out stems and the more familiar bulbs salad and so much more are all just (though, of course, they are not bulbs at all but supremely indulgent and make you know what I mean). The flowers, though, cooking so easy. It’s the laidback beat the lot for flavour and I can be found chopseason in the kitchen and I am ping them into, onto and around taking full advantage of the simple summer treats from strawberside of cookery to make the most ries to slow-cooked cauliflower. of the flow of produce from field, I like to pick the flowering Yes, you heard fishermen and forager. heads in all their golden glory me right. I have I was going to write a little bit and keep them in a little pot in about tomatoes, and how you the fridge. Sometimes I flavour finally lost the simply can’t get better than home oil with them and recently I have plot completely grown, but I got distracted on the been adding them to the butter I and am making way to the greenhouse to pick a have been cooking scallops in. few and think it over. As I walked But the most eye-opening use fennel flower and past the herb bed, to the obvious recently has been in ice cream. honey ice cream annoyance of the bumble bees Yes, you heard me right, I have steadily working the mint flowfinally lost the plot completely ers, I was arrested by the scent of and am making fennel flower fennel in flower. and honey ice cream. Mad I love a fennel seed, I cannot live without them though I may be I can tell you this now: it’s very, in the kitchen in fact – a habit that has drawn a very good indeed and I am probably going to get fair amount of jovial ribbing from various chef a bit fat eating it. I don’t care.

[[

Pigeon with fennel flowers I have been shooting a few pigeons lately and seasoning those pigeon breasts with chopped fennel flowers, chilli and a little garlic before barbecuing them has resulted in a need for more pigeon shooting to take place. If pigeon’s not your thing, try fennel flowers on fish. If you don’t have fennel in the garden, just keep an eye out - it’s common in the wild and dead easy to spot right now with its crown of bright yellow flowers and heady scent.

Tim Maddams is a Devon chef and author of Game: River Cottage Handbook no. 15 (Bloomsbury £14.99) 33

WELLBEING_TIM_AUG27.indd 33

22/08/2016 16:57:33

PHOTOGRAPHY: MATT AUSTIN

Wellbeing

Naturally Bridie’s

Zoccolini Salad Bridie Nicol says: This simple, healthy salad dish will provide you with lots nutrients. This dish helps to promote collagen synthesis which is great for our skin. It is also excellent for men’s health as those tiny, red goji berries may help to maintain muscle strength and the vegetables are good for prostate health.

You will need:

Method:

1 broccoli 1 zucchini (courgette) 12 green beans 1 and a half cups goji berries 1 tbsp Greek yogurt Juice of one lemon ¼ tsp fennel seeds 1 tbsp saffron oil

1. 2.

Cut the broccoli into halves and quarters and place into a big salad bowl. Cut off both ends of the zucchini (courgette) and peel half of it lengthwise into the bowl and mix through.

Chop the green beans and evenly mix them throughout the salad.

Sprinkle half a cup of the goji berries over the top.

Pop the rest of the goji berries into a mug and pour boiling water over them. Let them sit there for 10-15 minutes to allow to

soften up. 6.

Drain the goji berries, rinse under a cold tap and allow to cool.

Blend all of the ingredients together then pour into a jar, container or jug ready to serve up with your zoccolini salad.

You can make a batch of this dressing and place in small containers to go into the freezer for 3-4 months.

@naturally_bridie

Bridie Nicol runs the nutrition advice business Naturally Bridie in east Devon www.naturallybridie.co.uk 34

BRIDIE_AUG27.indd 34

23/08/2016 11:47:28

New This Autumn! Dorma Rose Toile Duvet set | Save 70%

THE W H AT ’ S O N F L AV E L BOX OFFICE 01803 839530 WWW.THEFLAVEL.ORG.UK THE FLAVEL FLAVEL PLACE DARTMOUTH DEVON TQ6 9ND

An intricate rose pattern printed with natural flowing floral motifs in creams and natural earthy tones 100% cotton 200 thread count. Set comprises duvet cover & pillowcase(s) RRP Our Price Single £100.00 £30.00 Double £130.00 £39.00 King £155.00 £46.50 Super King £180.00 £54.00 Bedspread 200x200 £250.00 £75.00 Cushion £40.00 £12.00

Padstow Bed Linen Set Save £5.00

Wild Poppies Bed Linen Set

Reversible Set comprises duvet cover & pillowcase(s) 60% Cotton 40% Polyester, for easy care, fully machine washable.

Reversible Set comprises duvet cover & pillowcase(s) 60% Cotton 40% Polyester, for easy care, fully machine washable. Our Price: single £12.99 | double £19.99 king £23.99

single double king

rrP £18.00 rrP £25.00 rrP £30.00

Our Price: £12.00 Our Price £20.00 Our Price £25.00

Robin Stripe & Noel Check, Brushed Cotton Duvet sets Save 50% Luxury 135gsm brushed cotton, perfect for the colder nights single double king

rrP £50.00 rrP £70.00 rrP £90.00

Our Price: £25.00 Our Price £35.00 Our Price £45.00

www.lawsonshop.co.uk Plymouth - tavistock - totnes - i vybridge

Ads.indd 2

©LW

23/08/2016 14:02:19

Cook

Sticky Ginger and Beetroot Muffins Recipe: Carol Bowen Ball, author of Esse’s The Four Seasons Cookbook

Ingredients

Method:

200g golden syrup  200g black treacle  150g unsalted butter  125g dark brown sugar  100g stem ginger, finely chopped 4 tsp ground ginger 2 tsp ground cinnamon 250g pack cooked beetroot 250ml milk  2 medium eggs, beaten  1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 300g plain flour Icing: 150g icing sugar Zest of 1 lemon, plus 1 tbsp lemon juice

Makes: 12 Muffins

Preheat the oven if necessary to 180ºC/Fan 160ºC/Esse Dial Guide MODERATE. (Aim for the dial reading to be at the top end of MODERATE or very low end of HOT). Line a large 12-hole muffin tray with cases.

Place the golden syrup, black treacle, butter, sugar, stem ginger, ground ginger and cinnamon in a pan and warm until the butter and sugar have melted.

Meanwhile, purée the beetroot with the milk, eggs and bicarbonate of soda. Add to the slightly cooled sugar mixture, mixing well.

Sift the flour into a bowl then beat in the beetroot mixture until the mixture is smooth.

Divide between the muffin cases. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm but springy to the touch. Be careful not to overcook the muffins, they are nice a little sticky. Remove from the tray and leave to cool on a rack.

While the muffins are cooling make the icing. Mix the icing sugar with the lemon zest and lemon juice to make a smooth paste. Drizzle over the muffins when completely cold.

These muffins keep really well for up to four days if stored in an airtight tin.

The Rangemoors Hearth & Cook showroom in Marsh Barton, Exeter supplies the full range of Esse cookers: www.hearthandcook.com 36

RecipeHappyHour_Aug27.indd 36

19/08/2016 14:09:30

Drink

Happy h ur with drinks expert April Marks

It’s taken me too long to discover Aval Dor. A delicious vodka made by the fifth generation of the Dustow family, potato farmers currently supplying Burts Crisps and McCain. Sixteen years ago the Dustows saw the potential of producing vodka from their King Edward potatoes, grown on the cliff tops at Colwith Farm, near Par, while also utilising mineral water from an aquifer beneath the property. After years of hard work they launched the product in 2014. This is by no means the neutral spirit you expect from vodka, it has a rich oily texture and there’s

flavour! You can taste a creamy earthiness with a hint of mushroom. Sensibly they have taken this base spirit and rectified it to produce a wonderful full-flavoured gin with botanicals foraged from the farm and further afield. Aptly, the family named the gin ‘Stafford’ after their greatgreat grandfather who bought the farm in 1904. You can really taste the lemon balm and bay leaves (from the farm) among almonds, juniper, rosemary, coriander and orange peel. I tried the gin with Mediterranean Fever Tree tonic which works a treat. Stafford Dustow would undoubtedly be very proud of his family’s achievements.

TOP OF THE HILL COCKTAIL

‘This is by no means

the neutral spirit you

expect from vodka’

LATE SUMMER WINE TASTING Grab your tickets now for a super selection of tasting wines to accompany a late summer barbeque being held at The Sportsman Inn in Ivybridge on the evening of Wednesday September 14. For tickets contact 01752 892280.

A fruity, elegant and tangy cocktail – perfect for Bank Holiday afternoons You will need; Cocktail glass Shaker 50ml sweet red vermouth 50ml orange juice 2 dashes pineapple juice 1 dash orange bitters ½ slice of orange Shake all the ingredients together firmly with ice in the cocktail shaker and strain into the glass. Perch the slice of the orange on the glass – enjoy!

WINE OF THE WEEK Ravoire et Fils, Cuvée Des Lices, Côtes de Provence Rosé, Provence Make the most of the last of the summer with this very delicate and very French rosé wine. A subtle blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah. Enjoy a glass outside in the sunshine at The Ferry Boat Inn in Dittisham, south Devon. 37

RecipeHappyHour_Aug27.indd 37

23/08/2016 12:14:21

Drink Beer of the week Yeovil Ales YOLO#10 is the latest incarnation of a series of golden ales marking the brewery’s 10th anniversary. Hopped with Belma and Columbus varieties, which offer orange citrus notes, there is a juicy malt balance and an excellent hop bite on the finish.

Darren Norbury

talks beer nusually, this year’s Champion Beer of Britain, as determined by CAMRA, is a speciality beer. Unusual because the competition involves a lot of judges and it can be difficult for a group with diverse palates and tastes to agree on something which is, well, a bit leftfield. The beer in question is Vanilla Stout, a 5% ABV brew infused with vanilla – not the cheapest of ingredients – made by Bingham’s Brewery, in Berkshire. It is one of an army of speciality beers in our midst now, outside of the constraining box of beer’s traditional four ingredients: malt, hops, yeast and water. There is a beer with which you may be familiar: Titanic Plum Porter. Now Titanic beers, from Stoke-on-Trent, are generally very well thought of. To me, the Plum Porter is the bum deal of the portfolio, a sweet, sickly brew thanks to the addition of plum flavouring. But what do I know: everyone else who drinks it seems to love it and it’s picked up more gongs than a butterfingered toastmaster and must rate as one of Britain’s favourite speciality beers.

HEALTH KICK More than half the public disagree with official health guidelines on alcohol consumption, according to a YouGov poll. In the survey, 61% of 2,040 people agreed that moderate alcohol consumption can be part of a healthy lifestyle.

So what is a speciality beer? Well, very broadthe last year or so, and Atlantic Brewery, near ly, it’s a beer which doesn’t fit any other style – Newquay, came up with Earl Grey PA (pale ale), you know, the usual categories where the fragrant tea notes such as bitter, porter, stout, IPA. came through. Plenty of fraThere are many ways in which grance, too, in the Elderflower It’s picked up it might veer from the norm: IPA Slow Beer bottled by South more gongs than perhaps by production method Devon-based Red Rock Brewery. (an ice beer, for instance); ferChocolate’s a popular addition a butterfingered mentables, such as sorghum – I’m talking about real chocolate toastmaster and grass grain; an adjunct, say oats; here, not the chocolate flavours must rate as or other additions, such as those that can be achieved purely plums, or honey. through malt. Think multione of Britain’s When I think of speciality award-winning Mexi-Cocoa from favourite beers in the West Country, my Rebel Brewng Co, in Penryn, or speciality beers mind turns close to home and Chocolate Slug, a variant of RCH Skinner’s GTA (previously Brewery’s perennially popular known as Ginger Tosser) and Old Slug Porter, from Hewish, Hops ‘n’ Honey (previously Helinear Weston-super-Mare. gan Honey). Darren Norbury is editor of beertoday.co.uk Tea-infused beers have been popular over @beertoday

[[

BREWER ON THE MOVE Former lead brewer at Harbour Brewing Co, Ian Cobham, has been appointed head brewer at Dartmoor Brewery. Working alongside outgoing head brewer, Mike Lunney, who is staying on as a consultant, Ian will develop new recipes as well as being custodian of existing beers.

Beer_Aug27.indd 38

23/08/2016 12:16:52

ESCAPE TO THE

DRIF T WO O D S PA R S

THE BREWERY, P U B A N D B & B BY T HE SE A

WE HAVE IT ALL! A wonderful restaurant and even our own micro brewery! A seafood takeaway, the pub which hosts a range of live music, wedding and conference facilities. WONDERFUL SEA FRONT LOCATION IN THE HEART OF ST AGNES.

W W W. D R I F T W O O D S PA R S . C O . U K Trevaunance Cove, Saint Agnes, TR5 0RT For reservations and bookings call:

01872 552428

Ads.indd Driftwood 5Spar - West Full Page.indd 2

23/08/2016 15/03/2016 14:01:20 11:40:15

culture vulture Our guide to what’s on in the South West by woman-in-theknow Gracie Stewart

Down by the Sea Festival Next weekend around 1,000 people will head to Holywell Bay in Cornwall for a celebration of all things coastal and vintage. Beachgoers can enjoy seaside activities from the early 1920s through to the 1960s. Weekend activities will include the Bellyboard Club Championships, the World Picnic Awards and a classic car competition. In the clubhouse at Trevornick you will be able to learn to Lindy Hop, play a ukulele and watch film screenings and a beauty pageant. There will also be vintage stands and a Sunday morning vintage and surf jumble. Join for the weekend of September 3 and 4 with Camping at Trevornick or alternatively buy a one-day or two-day pass. For more information visit www. letsgodownbythesea.com/

WOW Ball City to Sea The City to Sea Ultramarathon starts from Exeter Quayside and winds its way to Berry Head in Brixham before heading to Torquay and finally up to Babbacombe Downs. The City to Sea Marathon, which you can run or walk, starts from Exeter Quayside and takes a more direct but still very scenic route. On Babbacombe Downs there will be the event village, with finish line, race HQ and the Festival of Fun featuring live music, family entertainment, stalls, games, inflatables and much more. So even if you’re not racing, enjoy a day out with the family and show your support for those who are. Saturday September 3, finishing at Babbacombe Downs, Torquay, Devon.

Taking place on Saturday September 10, the WOW Ball is an annual charity ball with black-tie dress code organised by the charity Women of Worth. Women of Worth restores dignity and hope to vulnerable women, advocating the value of their lives and demonstrating compassion through support, friendship, and practical aid. Tickets cost £35 each or £340 for a table of 10. To book or for more information call 01803 663 681. Riviera International Centre, Chestnut Avenue, Torquay, Devon.

Culture_Vulture_Aug27.indd 40

19/08/2016 13:56:58

Get Active Your Way Get Active Your Way Get Active Your Way - It’s Never Too Late! It’s Never Too Late! Over 55s taster sessions Never Too Late! It’s Over 55s taster sessions

r 55s

Wednesday 21st September 2016, 10am—4pm tasterWednesday sessions21st September 2016, 10am—4pm

Explore the wonders of Haldon Forest for this special day of activities.

esday 21st September 10am—4pm Explore 2016, the wonders of Haldon Forest for this special day of activities.

Try something new or rekindle a past hobby e the wonders of Haldon Forest for thisorspecial day of activities. Try something new rekindle a past hobby Lots to inspire you Lots to inspire you Delicious food to tempt you mething new or rekindle a past hobby Delicious food to tempt you Free and reduced price activities with qualified instructors inspire you Free and reduced price activities with qualified instructors us food to tempt you To find out more visit www.forestry.gov.uk/haldonforestpark or nd reduced price activities withmore qualified instructors To find out visit www.forestry.gov.uk/haldonforestpark or follow us on Facebook @haldonforestpark or @AgeDevon follow us on Facebook @haldonforestpark or @AgeDevon out more visit www.forestry.gov.uk/haldonforestpark or Working in partnership with us on Facebook @haldonforestpark or @AgeDevon Working in partnership with

ng in partnership with

Ads.indd 6

16/08/2016 13:18:19

The land girl Lucy Johnson meets Dee Dee Sibley, who says becoming the first female tenant farmer at Babeny Farm on Dartmoor is the best thing that could possibly have happened to her

“

y dad always said that the only way a farmer retires is in a box. We don’t retire because the job always needs to be done,” laughs Dee Dee Sibley as she walks among her pedigree South Devon cows high on Dartmoor above the Duchy of Cornwall-owned farm where she was brought up. “But we stay healthy for longer,” she adds as we stop for a while and admire the breathtaking scenery of the moorland. Dee Dee is the fourth generation of her family to farm the 211 acres that make up Babeny Farm. It's not an easy place to work - only 80 acres are tamed grassland and the rest is wild moorland. What is more, she is the farm's first ever female tenant - quite a record for a holding whose records date back a cool 750 years. It's a label that is not for the fainthearted, especially given Dartmoor’s unyielding nature and tough winters. “But I love that harshness,” she says. “When I was growing up, I’d stand on a tor in driving wind and rain. It made me feel alive, giving me a sense of belonging and, oddly, security.” On this bright sunny day, however, it is a mesmerising picture that unfolds before us, with vast and beguiling scenery stretching into the distance. Below us, tucked into the folds of the

hills, is the Devon farmhouse with its 13th century origins where Dee Dee lives with her husband Darren and children Barney and Reuben. With support from the Duchy of Cornwall, the house has recently been renovated to create a home worthy of inclusion in a glossy magazine, and a new barn is being erected so that the cows can winter indoors, something that will ease the heavy work burden for Dee Dee and Darren. The Duchy of Cornwall is a vast private estate originally set up in 1337 to provide an income for the Prince of Wales, and still thrives today: “The Duchy has been incredibly supportive. To have them behind me, doing up the house and the barn is wonderful. Prince Charles himself visited us during his recent trip to Devon. He was lovely and he seemed very pleased with all the renovations,” she says. Dee Dee was brought up at Babeny where her father farmed and also ran a renowned riding

stables in an era when less stringent Health and Safety rules and red tape made it easier to run such a business. She remembers freezing cold winters with a temperamental generator to provide electricity, no heating or running water and walking for miles to get water to the animals when the snow arrived. Dartmoor and its many moods gave Dee Dee a sense of belonging that proved a lifeline during her teenage years. She loved working with the farm animals, helping with the trekking centre and riding her pony to check the stock on the high moors. As an adult, she left but always wanted to come back, she explains. “Since I was four it was my dream to farm Babeny. You become so in tune with the seasons that you are a part of the world around you, and it is as if your soul is here. There’s a deep-rootedness about being on Dartmoor,” she says. She made her own way in life, buying her first house when she was 22, and acting upon the

'Prince Charles himself visited us the other

day - he's so supportive'

FARMER_AUG27.indd 42

22/08/2016 16:19:24

MAIN PICTURE: MALCOLM SNELGROVE

People

advice of a neighbour who said he believed she should go for a career and suggested she apply for a job with the NHS, rather than work every hour behind the tills in a large countryside store. “I always thought I was too thick to go to university or college. I didn’t think I was capable of achieving anything but my neighbour believed in me, I got an interview and went right up the ladder, staying for 22 years and managing three hospitals by the time I left seven years ago.” In 2009 she left the NHS and established South West Coaching Ltd, a life-coaching business. But nagging away was the desire to return to Babeny and periodically she’d ask her father about the tenancy until in 2014 he did, after all, decide it was time to retire, rather than wait for "the box". “To have the opportunity to come back to my roots is the best thing that could have ever happened to me. It just feels so right being here, no matter how tough it gets. I am really grateful to my dad for that,” she says. She is building up the horse-trekking part of the business because ultimately, she says, she’d love more people to experience the benefits of time spent on horses in such a breathtaking landscape where everyday worries can be left at the stable door. Her experience as a life coach and a lifetime spent with horses will play a central part in this - already she works with the FarmAble project, which helps Armed Service personnel recover from trauma-related conditions. She will also partner with other organisations and schools. It’s an unfolding chapter of her life that will lead to immeasurable benefits for many people. She also runs a busy stable yard, which supplements the farming income. It’s popular and people come and go throughout the day but still an overriding sense of calm pervades, probably because Dee Dee is such a warm and gentle character herself. “I did a lot of work on myself to get to where I am and now everything I want to do is about making a difference to other people’s lives. At Babeny we can do that,” she says as she gazes fondly at the cows. “My great grandfather had pedigree South Devon’s which is where I learned my love for them. They are such a gentle breed and good for both meat and milk. We have 30 now and I hope to increase to 40. The first calves we ever sold at Newton Abbot Market won a cup for the best

Dee Dee Sibley is the first ever female tenant of her Dartmoor farm

South Devon calves, and we’d love to show them more in the future,” she says. With dreams and aspirations to help better the lot of other folk, the cows will always be a welcome pull back to her farming roots. “Most farmers I have met seem to prefer the solitude of farming and it’s the same for me,” she says. “For me, to recharge the batteries you need

time on your own. Farming makes you feel purposeful. "When you are working hard physically, you eat well and you sleep well and it’s a way of life that suits the human body. It’s so healthy. And it really makes you appreciate the summer!” For more details on Babeny Farm, visit the website www.babenyfarmstables.co.uk 43

FARMER_AUG27.indd 43

23/08/2016 12:18:35

Jacky Swain

My Secret Westcountry Jacky Swain Jacky Swain is communications and site manager for Carlyon Beach in Cornwall. The 55-year-old mother of four grown-up sons says ‘she’s still 25 in her head’. Jacky lives on the Roseland with her husband Phil My Favourite… Walk: Messack near St Just-in-Roseland, looking across the Fal to Loe Beach & Restronguet Point. You walk through National Trust farmland and it’s particularly beautiful in the spring when the bluebells are in full flower. Place to eat: The Globe in Fowey – the birthplace of cakey tea! It always takes me ages to make a decision about which dish to order and I love the fact that everything is sourced so locally.

Weekend escape: Out on the water in St Austell Bay. The scenery is stunning, good fishing in beautiful clear water and then pop into Polkerris for a pint of Pear Rattler.

View: The view from Carn Grey at Baal Pit in St Austell is breathtaking. You look out over St Austell Bay to Fowey and then down to the Lizard in the west. Pub: My local village pub! The Kings Arms in Tregony, lovely people, great service and the

Camel Valley Vineyard

MSW_Aug27.indd 44

19/08/2016 13:41:33

People

Polkerris

Cornish mussels

The Red Arrows over The Gribben St Austell Bay

Messack Point

best fish & chips. Plus we can weave our way home on foot after too much Korev.

Food: Local Cornish seafood, especially mussels picked from the mussel farm out in St Austell Bay and eaten by the sea at Samâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Polkerris or Carlyon Beach.

Drink: Difficult one because Cornwall produces some wonderful spirits and ciders, but it has to be Camel Valley Brut sparkling wine. It is difficult to beat watching a Cornish sunset with a glass of this delicious Cornish fizz.

Secret place: There is a little cove underneath The Gribben in St Austell Bay that you can only get to from the sea. The water is beautifully warm and clear, and you can hear the distant clanging of the Bell Buoy warning boats away from the rocks at Fowey. A little piece of heaven. Polkerris

For more information visit www.carlyonbeach.com 45

MSW_Aug27.indd 45

19/08/2016 13:48:27

My life Chris Mcguire

I’m feeling anti-social Going cold turkey on social media is no big deal - or is it? didn’t “Like” this at all. the loss of my digital companion. On that walk I I’ve got to admit, I was a bit ansaw a cat with a Brian May hairdo, two mis-spelt noyed. At last, my composure signs in shop windows and a newspaper headline broke and I decided to “Share” my with an unintended double entendre. Yet I had thoughts: no means of sharing this social media gold. It “Look, I haven’t got a problem! I could stop any was devastating. time I want.” That night, watching TV, I found myself As I spoke I realised these were words more involuntarily giving the thumbs up usually associated with alcoholics or drug adsign in order to “Like” things that apdicts. In this case, I was having a particularly peared on the screen. I tried “Sharheated conversation about my social media use. ing” crisps with my partner but I was addicted – apparently. I wouldn’t believe found it a pale imitation of sharit, I didn’t have a problem. To prove my point, ing online. Putting Post-it notes I quickly tweeted “How much on random items social media use is too much?”. around the house It was then that my partner was nowhere near I didn’t have wrenched the phone from my as satisfying as hand. “Denial”, she told me, “is “Tagging” a problem. To not a river in Africa.” Yes, this photos on Faprove my point, I week I learned that going social cebook. media cold turkey is nothing to It took a quickly tweeted LOL about. few days for “How much As she locked my phone in a the social social media use drawer, I reflected that perhaps media I’d started doing a few things that addicis too much?” might be considered strange: tion to 1: Posting on Facebook a photo w e a r of every lunch I’d eaten for the off. At last month (pasties, mostly). last, parted from my 2: Tweeting about tweeting. smartphone, I felt lib3: Checking how many Twitter followers I had erated. There was no every three and a half minutes. compunction to “Like” OK, it was clear I had a problem. friends’ pets or babies, “That’s staying locked away,” said my girlboth of which (if we’re friend. “For a week!” A week? She might as well honest) are of no interest have said forever. If a week is a long time in polito anyone but the respectics, it’s an eon on social media. tive owner/parent. I spent After an hour without a tweet, Facebook update no time at all thinking about or even a quick Google I was getting the shakes. my “Status”, so there was no My hand kept drifting towards my trouser pocket need to update anyone about it. to check a phone that wasn’t there. I went for a I found it thrilling to look at life walk to distract myself, yet found I was absenthere in the wonderful Westcounmindedly staring at my empty palm, mourning try, rather than take blurred photos

[[

of it to share with others. Unphotographed meals tasted better somehow. When, at last, my girlfriend gave the phone back, I had no desire to use it, none at all. I was cured. I could hold the phone in my hand and not write an update. It was amazing. Moments later I was all over social media telling my followers how cured of social media I was. I got a lot of “Likes” for that. Chris McGuire is a writer who recently moved to the Westcountry. He’d like it if you followed him on Twitter, so please don’t. @McGuireski

NEXT WEEK: Phil Goodwin on love, life and parenthood in the South West 46

ChrisM_Aug27.indd 46

19/08/2016 16:04:15

Crafted in Devon

W I T H A S H G ROV E K I T C H E N S Ashgrove Kitchens is one of only a handful of kitchen manufacturers in the South West supplying our individual, bespoke kitchens direct to our customers. So if you’d like to create something special that will last and function beautifully for years to come, call us and we can arrange a no-obligation home visit with one of our designers, or see our website for more examples of our work.

DEVON SHOWROOMS: HEARTH & COOK, 14 OAK TREE PLACE, MATFORD, EXETER, EX2 8WA. LORDS MEADOW, CREDITON, EX17 1ES.

Ads.indd 3

ASHGROVE Telephone 01363 773533 • www.ashgrovekitchens.co.uk 23/08/2016 12:54:25

SUMMER

CELEBRATIONS

dream shopping...

Ads.indd 4

23/08/2016 12:53:04