english riviera magazine february/march 2015

9PAGES OF SPRINGTIME EVENTS

10 years of Flavel Arts

We try caving...

GOING UNDERGROUND!

Velopark visit

CYCLING FOR ALL! RIVIERA

HOMESpeek inside...

WALKING INANCIENT WOODLANDS

Recipes for winter nights

WINTER WARMERS

SkiingGive It A Go

Goodrington Beach Strolls & Young’s Park People

Riviera style

TYING THE KNOT

with Elisabeth Hadley

Celebrating Sculpture

21st AnniversaryCelebration

MEET THE BENCES

FREEWalks � Local Food � Heritage � Nature � People � Events � Arts

February/March 2015

EnglishRiviera magazine

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Contemporary living on the

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...to issue ten! February and March can be chilly but the signs of spring are in the air so we are suggesting that you wrap up warm and try something new. To inspire you we have been trying out a range of activities: dry slope skiing in Torquay (with tea and cakes!), caving near Buckfastleigh (damp but exciting), Velopark cycling (get those legs working) and early morning beach strolls at Goodrington (calm and relaxing). There’s also lots more suggestions in our What’s On and Theatre sections so why not plan something fun now?

Getting sociable, in this issue we meet some wonderful locals, this time from Brixham: Elizabeth Hadley, noted local sculptor plus the Bence family who are celebrating 21 years at the beautiful Berry Head Hotel. There are more celebrations at The Flavel in Dartmouth who only 10 years ago were campaigning for a new arts centre (and look at them now!) We also meet Lis Wallace from Dobies of Devon and garner her top gardening tips.

We wish you a wonderful early springtime on the English Riviera. Please keep sending us your news, your photos and your story ideas to [email protected] and do chat to us on Twitter and Facebook. We love parties, exhibitions and all kinds of events, so please feel free to invite us along if you’d like your event featured in the next issue.

We’d love to hear

from you!

© All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form without prior permission of the publishers. All material is sent at the owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, Devon Magazine Company Ltd will not accept liability for loss or damage. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of our content but the publishers cannot be held responsible for any omissions, errors or alterations or for the consequences of any reliance on these details; neither can they vouch for the accuracy of claims made by any advertiser. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers.

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Created and Published ByDevon Magazine Company LimitedAnita [email protected]: 01803 850886Julian [email protected] 01803 842893 Mobile: 07455 206470Advertising [email protected] Advertising [email protected]@englishrivieramagazine.co.ukWebsiteenglishrivieramagazine.co.ukfacebook.com/englishrivieramagazinetwitter.com/EngRivieraMagISSN (Print) 2052-8515ISSN (Online) 2052-8523Proudly printed in Devon at Polestar Wheatons, Exeter.Next issue 27 MarchLive out of area?Subscriptions: 6 issues for £12Call 01803 842893 for details or visit englishrivieramagazine.co.uk/subscribe-todayWrite to us at: ENGLISH RIVIERA MAGAZINE69 DAVIES AVENUEPAIGNTONDEVON TQ4 7AW

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11,000 copies delivered to homes around the English Riviera and stocked at:Torbay Bookshop 7 Torquay Road, Paignton TQ3 3DUKingswear Post Offi ce3 The Square (Lower Ferry Slipway), Kingswear TQ6 0AAHaddon Galleries6/7 Victoria Parade,Torquay TQ1 2BBHobb Nobs19/20 The Quay, Brixham TQ5 8AWChelston Post Offi ce & Newsagents24 Walnut Road, Torquay TQ2 6HSPreston Post Offi ce337 Torquay Road, Paignton TQ3 2EPMarldon Newsagents & Post Offi ceMarldon Cross Hill, Marldon TQ3 1NEWellswood Place Post Offi ceIlsham Rd, Torquay TQ1 2JGSt Marychurch Post Offi ceFore Street, St Marychurch TQ1 4PRGalmpton Post Offi ceStoke Gabriel Road, Galmpton TQ5 0NHChurston Traditional Farm ShopDartmouth Road, nr Brixham TQ1 2AFStoke Gabriel Stores Paignton Road, Stoke Gabriel TQ6 6RDBroadpark Post Offi ce 18 Roundhill Road, Livermead TQ2 6THLowes Bridge Post Offi ce 125 Newton Road, Torquay TQ2 7AJ

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30 Cycling For All

Meet the BencesA 21st Anniversary CelebrationFood & DrinkTasty tips and recipes for winter nights

Riviera WeddingsTyng the knot in Torbay

Social DiaryLocal people at local events

GardeningTop Tips from Dobies of Devon

Charities & VolunteeringWe meet the TPSA

What’s On5 pages of springtime events.

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Riviera HomesA super home with a yoga retreatGive It A Go SkiingAnita tries dry skiing at Barton HallCycling For AllWe visit the Velopark and Scadson Bike ParkGive It A Go CavingJulian goes underground at PridhamsleighWalkWatcombe to MaidencombeGoodrington In WinterBeach strolls and Young’s Park People

OpenersLocal news snippetsElisabeth HadleyTime well spent polishing brass

28 Give It A Go Skiing

Flavel 10th AnniversaryDartmouth’s arts centre celebrates

Business BreaksLocal business news

Theatre Round UpWho’s treading the boards?

The Briefi ngLegal news from Wollen Michelmore

Contents

February/March 2015

Cover image: Kestrel in Bluebell Woods© BRIAN BEVAN / Alamy

20 Winter Warmers

Food & Drink

NEW!

NEW!

10 Elisabeth Hadley

24 Riviera Homes

Openers... Openers...

Rare Jane Austen Letter on ShowA rare letter written by Jane Austen to her sister Casandra in 1799 is now on public display at Torquay Museum for the first time in over 20 years. “This is probably the finest surviving example of correspondence from the novelist to her sister, and was acquired by Hester Pengelly, daughter of one of the founders of Torquay Museum, William Pengelly,” said Museum Curator of Collections Barry Chandler. “The letter contains the first mention of one of Jane Austen’s best known novels, Pride and Prejudice.” Hester Pengelly was an avid collector of autographs and letters from a huge range of famous people – from writers and artists to scientists, explorers and royalty - and bequeathed her collection to Torquay Museum in the 1930s. This may be the last chance for local people to see the Jane Austen letter, as Torquay Museum is considering selling it and three of the other letters from Hester Pengelly’s collections in order to create an endowment fund to enable the Museum to continue to look after its collections. Only those letters that have no connection with Torquay and the surrounding area will be considered for sale, and then only with the agreement of the Museums Association and Arts Council England. Torquay Museum has also launched The Mammoth

Race for Life Torbay


Appeal to encourage local people to support the Museum with a gift, no matter how small, which will help to care for its internationally important collections, develop exciting new exhibitions and encourage children to explore Torbay’s rich past. Visit www.torquaymuseum.org or contact Hannah Hunter to find out more on 01803 293975. o

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life 2015, a women-only 5K event will be held at Torbay Velo Park on Sunday June 7th. Race for Life is non-competitive. It’s not about being fit or fast. Most women are able to walk 5k in an hour while chatting and having fun. Or they can choose to jog, run or even dance around the course. Maxine Bateman, Cancer Research UK’s Torbay Event Manager, said: “Race for Life is to celebrate those who are with us, and also remember those who are not. The atmosphere is electric, our participants are so inspiring and we’re calling on the women of Torbay to help make 2015 our best year yet.” Sign up now via raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770.o raceforlife.org

Openers...Openers...Openers...

Last issue’s mystery object was correctly identified by Bev Harvey from Paignton. The sphinx can be found mounted on a plinth at the entrance to Oldway Mansion ornamental gardens.If you think you recognise the object below then visit englishrivieramagazine.co.uk/competitions and let us know where you think it is and what it is? The answer will be in the next issue. o

Last issue’s mystery object was correctly

Follow us on Instagram!englishrivieramagazine


2015 Challenge Ahead

Seal Pup Reunited with Mum

After being injured in the final stages of last year’s British Rally Championship, Torquay’s young rally hope Chris Wheeler is back to full fitness and looking forward to competing in the English Rally Championship & the Vital Equipment Rally First Championship in 2015.This year’s championships will take place on all-gravel stages in the forests of Wales, the Midlands and Carlisle.Chris will be partnered for the fifth year by co-driver

A seal pup hand-reared by zoo keepers has been reunited with her mother at Living Coasts. Gemini, a South American fur seal was born at the coastal zoo in June to mother Grace. The pup had to be hand-reared because Grace was unable to produce milk. Now, staff have weaned Gemini and reintroduced her to Mum and the other adult seals. Living Coasts Operations Manager Clare Rugg said: “Gemini has been weaned off her fishy milkshakes and introduced to the joy of sprats. It took a while, as she had to learn how to swallow solid food! She is now eating 650grams of sprats three times a day.”o

Yan Griffiths with the first round commencing on 14 February in the Forset of Dean.You can keep tabs on Chris’ progress at facebook.com/CWRallying and on Twitter @Chrisrally ochriswheelerrallying.com

Openers... Openers...A Definite Pluss for Edward

Pluss, a local Social Enterprise that is part owned by Torbay Council, won the national Social Champion Award at the 2014 Charity Times Awards. The awards are a pre-eminent celebration of best practice in the UK charity and not-for-profit sector. Pluss customer, Edward Rawcliffe, 27, from Ashburton has recently found his first ever job as a Horticultural Assistant at Dame Hannah Rogers Trust at Seale-Hayne. Edward, who has dyslexia and is on the autistic spectrum, had previously found it very difficult to find work yet has proven to be an absolute model employee. The gardens at Hannahs are truly spectacular and Edward who, despite being a man of few words, is hard working and popular. Edward explains, “This is my first ever job with a proper working wage. Before that I had been a volunteer. My job involves sowing seeds, picking and harvesting. We do salads and herbs to sell in our restaurant and shop. I also do construction work like the propagation bench and fences.”o

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Edward Rawcliffe at work

A female Rothschild’s giraffe has been born to mother Janica at Paignton Zoo. Zoo keepers have been bottle-feeding the calf, which stood nearly six feet tall at birth, because Mum was not feeding her. Paignton Zoo Curator of Mammals Neil Bemment said, “At this stage we don’t know why Janica has rejected her. Giraffe mothers are fickle beasts. Sometimes they will rear their calves, sometimes they won’t. Janica reared her first, Tonda, who is now the breeding bull at Chessington Zoo, Surrey, but declined to rear her second Valentino, who was successfully hand reared by the keepers, reintroduced to the family group and is now in Port Lympne Zoo, Kent.” Senior Head Keeper of Mammals Matthew Webb said, “Hand rearing a giraffe is a lot of extra work and commitment for the keepers. “She is fed 4 times a day. She could need milk for up to 9 months.” Rothschild’s giraffes are classified as Endangered and there is a European Endangered species Programme for the species. o

Baby Giraffe for Paignton Zoo

Torbay Holiday Helpers Network held a grand opening of their new shop in St Marychurch. The ribbon was cut by THHN Founder and Chairman, Luke Tillen together with the charity’s mascot, Memory Maker Man. Luke Tillen thanked all the volunteers plus Shop Manager Carolanne Hart. Many local businesses contributed goods and services to help the project including Swift Carpets and Flooring, Medworth Plumbing & Heating, Dandy Decorators and Tactile Timber. A donation of £750 was also received on the day from Babbacombe Model Village’s Wishing Well Fund. Maureen MacDonald from Rotary Club of Torquay also presented £150 for the charity’s work. THHN provides free holidays to families with seriously ill children, families who are bereaved, having lost a child or parent

THHN Shop Opens in St Marychurchand families who have a terminally ill parent. o thhn.co.uk

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Time well spent Time well spent Time well spent polishing bronze...polishing bronze...polishing bronze...

Time well spent polishing bronze...

Time well spent Time well spent Time well spent polishing bronze...



Time well spent Time well spent Time well spent polishing bronze...

Time well spent

Julian Rees meets Elisabeth Hadley, a sculptor of world renown, in her Brixham studio and meets her latest creation Man & Boy,

a celebration of Brixham’s fi shing heritage.

I meet Elisabeth Hadley on a bright January morning in her loft studio in central Brixham. We are accompanied by her faithful companion Guinness

who snoozes peacefully in the corner on a dog sofa. � e room is tall with open beamed ceiling and large windows that � ood the room with natural light, an essential tool for a sculptor’s work. I make myself comfortable alongside Guinness with a steaming cup of tea and we begin.

� ere is a small heater which can’t hope to heat the space, but as Elisabeth sets about her work (whilst answering my questions), sporting thick woolly jumper and spattered overalls, one can see this is no sloth artistic pursuit but one that requires a great deal of movement, energy and hard work.

Elisabeth tells me her life story. She was born in Rotherham, Yorkshire and studied for her � rst degree in ceramics at Bristol Polytechnic. During her studies she was commissioned to sculpt the head of Mr Bennett from the BBC children’s television programme Take Hart as well as winning a competition to design a trophy for Sports Personality South West, to be executed in silver and porcelain.

After completing her degree she took a model-making job at Aardman Animation where she worked for a year on advertising projects for Cadbury’s Creme Eggs and Lurpak as well as Aardman’s Bafta nominated War Story and the cult Channel 4 animated series Rex the Runt where she applied her friendly Yorkshire burr voicing the character of Wendy.

To some, a position at Aardman may have seemed

a dream job but Elisabeth had ambitions to sculpt more traditional pieces on a grand scale and when the opportunity came to study sculpture at the now-defunct Sir Henry Doulton School of Sculpture in Stoke-on-Trent, she jumped at it.

Having completed her three years in Stoke she was made aware of a studio that had become available in Brixham where she had some friends. Having always been a fan of the outdoors, she decided to move south.

In the early days, Elisabeth supported her sculpting projects by running classes in and around the Bay whilst spending her spare time indulging her favourite pastime of kayaking. She met her partner James whilst paddling down the Dart and now regularly coaches and leads kayaking expeditions around South Devon. Last year she paddled around Jura with James and is busy planning their next trip to Skye.

Elisabeth’s favourite local place is Churston Cove where she regularly

walks Guinness and likes to swim.Talk returns to sculpture and Elisabeth cites Alfred

Gilbert, famous for the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, in Piccadilly Circus, as a great in� uence as well as Arts and Crafts sculptor Gilbert Bayes. Although not a fan of modern sculpture, she has always had a strong appreciation for the shape and form displayed in the works of Barbara Hepworth.

If you’ve ever taken a boat to Dartmouth you will have probably seen, what is arguably Elisabeth’s most well known piece, Miranda - � e Dartmouth Mermaid


Riviera People

be sited on Brixham Quay, below the former Coastguard building in 2016 to coincide with the 150th anniversary of the great storm of 1866. � is was when more than 40 Brixham � shing vessels were wrecked in winds reaching hurricane force 12 and many lives were lost.

� e piece is no small thing, the � gures are ‘life plus ten percent’ and mounted on a moveable plinth that is repositioned as daylight makes its way around the loft studio. At the foot of the piece lies a clay-clad steel ruler that ensures every measurement of life is faithfully transferred to sculpture. Man is at this point represented by a skeleton of carved insulation foam, thick wire bent to shape and polystyrene atop a frame of welded steel extrusions. Elisabeth will use a life model to take measurements when adding � esh to the skeleton and I am surprised to learn that the body is formed in its entirety before having the clothes added. Boy’s legs are based on measurements of Elisabeth’s partner, whereas his trousers belong to the artist, inspiring friend, model and technical assistant Peter Stride - my mind wanders in the direction of � e Wrong Trousers...

I ask Elisabeth about life as an artist and she tells me it’s great, tough to make a living at, but ultimately satisfying. ¨hadleysculptures.co.uk


which was commissioned by Dartmouth resident Heather Robinson in 2006.

Some of the � gures in the studio represent commercial enterprise, gargoyles and hares for garden ornaments that will be mass produced but each will still be a joy to touch and look at.

� ere are many works in progress, they are all clay and nothing un� nished appears in bronze. � is prompts Elisabeth to explain the process which takes the clay sculpture to a � nished cast bronze. It involves taking a series of moulds from the � nished piece, which go to produce a wax form. � is is then used to create a further mould, into which the molten bronze will be poured. If the sculpture is particularly large, this will be done in sections that are then welded together.

One thing that struck me as Elisabeth described the process was that the original work in clay bearing the actual tooling marks that give every sculpture its life were lost - recycled back to raw material to be used again. At this point Elisabeth showed me a collection of heads, gathering dust at their leisure, on a ledge that ran around the top of the studio wall.

We move on to Man and Boy, the centrepiece of her studio, a grand traditionalist project of the type to which Elisabeth aspires. It is a tribute to Brixham, its history, heart and � shing heritage. It is due to

Elisabeth with Peter Stride


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Meet the Bences

As a Brixham resident, I already love the Berry Head Hotel and the 21st anniversary a� ords me a chance to � nd out more and celebrate the life

and times of this wonderful property. I arrive on a blustery winter’s day to meet Edward Bence, Managing Director and his daughter Lucy Chamings who is the hotel’s General Manager.

I am ushered into the Library, which has a lovely

welcoming � re and we settle in for a chat over a nice cup of tea. � is historic and striking building has truly spectacular sea views, which must be among the most beautiful in the world so we locals are rightly proud of it. It was originally built as a military hospital in support of the Napoleonic War Forts on Berry Head. Later it became the home of Henry Francis Lyte who was best known for his hymns, ‘Praise my Soul the King of Heaven’ and his most famous

2015 is the 21st anniversary of Edward and Sarah Bence’s arrival as new owners of Brixham’s Berry Head Hotel. Since then, with their family, they have transformed it into a much-loved jewel at the heart of the community; Anita Newcombe fi nds out more.

Riviera People


‘Abide with Me,’ which he actually wrote in the grounds of the house just prior to his death in September 1847.

In 1949 it became a hotel for the first time and experienced its heyday in the 1960s before falling upon hard times and going into receivership at the end of the 1980s. Although it subsequently rallied, by the time Edward and Sarah Bence came to buy the hotel in 1994, the hotel had just 6 letting bedrooms and a further 6

derelict bedrooms. Five tin baths were positioned under the roofs collecting rainwater so it must have been in a pretty sad state. It did have a bar and restaurant but half of the first floor was derelict so it was a big challenge for its new owners.

However Edward and Sarah had built up some impressive experience. Edward had taken a HND in hotel keeping at South Devon College and then trained


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at Torquay’s famous Imperial Hotel and the Cavendish Hotel in London. He became Manager at the Palace Hotel in Torquay and later returned to the Imperial Hotel as its Resident Manager. He subsequently decided to set up a consultancy business with a partner, primarily operating distressed properties such as hotels, golf clubs and caravan parks across the south of England. This proved successful with the consultancy getting most of the properties trading again so they could be sold on.

Edward had always been interested in buying the Berry Head Hotel, so when it came up for sale in 1994, both he and his wife Sarah who was working as a chef, felt it was a project they were ready to take on. Edward had always liked the Berry Head Hotel, having visited as a child with his parents. His earliest memory of the hotel was at 8 years old, sitting with his Mum and Dad on the beautiful terrace, enjoying a ploughman’s lunch.

Edward tells me, “I had a very clear vision of what the hotel should be, which is pretty well what you see here today. I certainly realised the potential – we wouldn’t have bought it otherwise.” Over the years, he and his family gradually restored the hotel’s ability to produce income. He was well aware that the Berry Head was not operating to its full potential and was determined that it should do so. There were just 8 staff members at purchase, which subsequently grew to 65, a staff number which has been largely stable for the last 6-7 years. The family built a

swimming pool, a function room and added the top floor. Profits were all reinvested into the hotel, which has gradually become the hugely popular venue it is now, not only for visitors but also very much for locals.

Edward explains that his philosophy is, “evolution not revolution” and he and his wife have always wanted the hotel to serve the community rather than becoming an exclusive, upmarket boutique hotel. He says, “Look after your customers well so they return and provide stable employment for your staff. It’s great if you happen to pick

up industry accolades along the way but it’s not worth going out of your way to get one.” He feels the number of repeat visitors a place has, is a better measure of success than having 3 Michelin stars and a huge debt. The Berry Head has 75% repeat visitors, some of whom return

4-5 times per year and the place is very much a ‘destination hotel’.

There is also a professional pride in creating such a successful hotel in Brixham. Edward explains that hoteliers on the other side of the Bay never for a moment considered Brixham as competition to them, for visitors, functions or anything else and this “had to change”.

It is clear that his daughter Lucy, now General Manager believes strongly in this ethos too. She tells me, “It’s difficult to sum up our clientele because we are lots of different things to different people. Families will celebrate their weddings, christenings and anniversaries

It did have a bar and restaurant but half of the

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or just come here for a family gathering or simple lunch or evening out. � at’s what de� nes us – our ability to give people what they want.”

Lucy explains that her Mum and Dad have always been very hands-on at the hotel and she worked here waitressing herself before gaining a � rst class Management degree at Bournemouth University. She then received a Young Guns Award from Caterer Magazine whilst on management placement at the Southgate Hotel, Exeter. Following four years as Assistant Manager at the Grand Hotel in Torquay she came home to the Berry Head Hotel as its manager retired in 2006.

Her brother, also called Edward, completed a Hotel Management degree at Plymouth and following a period at P & O, joined the Berry Head as Operations Manager around 3 years ago. Edward Bence senior tells me, “I tried to put the children o� the business; I certainly didn’t encourage them. You really do need to have your heart totally in it as it’s not a business in which you can work o� ce hours; you are looking after people 24/7, it is a way of life.” It seems that family chat didn’t work then, as the younger generation Lucy and Eddie seem � rmly ensconced and more than happy to look after the clientele 24/7.

Together, the family feel very strongly about their sta� ; remarkably, they have never made anyone redundant (quite an achievement in the hotel business I would have thought) and are probably one of Brixham’s largest employers. � ey train youngsters to join the sta� and they are then fully employed all year round. Indeed, sometimes the winter is the busiest given the sheer number of functions they manage and the business is now far too complex to run the place on seasonal sta� . Lots of local families are involved through sta� members

working here. One family has produced an impressive 7 members of sta� and another even sent an alternative family member in to work when he was ill. Sounds like one big, happy family to me.

Life is pretty interesting in such a large operation as sta� could be serving a burger one minute and then waiting on Prince Charles the next. Food and Beverage accounts for 80% of the business and on a busy summer’s Saturday with functions on, they can do over 700 covers. Long standing chef Rob Bateman retired recently and the new Executive Head Chef, Dean Gri� n, has � lled his place. � e local � sh market is of course a superb source of fresh � sh and scallops come from the local mussel

farm just a mile o� shore. � e aptly named ‘View’ brasserie, the more formal Bonaparte’s restaurant and the function menus all use lots of locally sourced Westcountry food and drink.

� ere have been some famous visitors over the years including John Cleese, David Essex, Richard

Wilson, (One Foot in the Grave), Princess Anne, various politicians and Prince Charles who recently hosted a 4-day conference here.

“We’re very proud of our 21 years here,” says Edward. “We intend on staying, always continuing to improve. We do like to be seen as integral to the local community and the port of call for local people.”

� ey have certainly achieved that judging by the fact that the bar and brasserie are both buzzing with locals today, a midweek, winter lunchtime when many hotels are gloomy and empty. � e success of the Berry Head Hotel after 21 years under the stewardship of the Bence family speaks for itself.

� e family also owns the Hannafore Point Hotel in Looe. ¨berryheadhotel.com

“We intend on staying, always continuing to

improve. We do like to be seen as integral to the local community and the port of

call for local people.”


We’ve gathered some easy recipes together for you to try this winter. Perfect after a walk on the coast path or a stroll along the beach. Make plenty and invite some family and friends around – these dishes are made for sharing!

Winter Warmers

Golden Parsnip SoupBy reader Linda Jeyes

Cooking Time 40 Minutes - Serves 6Ingredients1 tbsp olive oila nob of butter2 onions peeled and sliced1 carrot peeled and chopped1 stick of celery chopped1 sweet potato peeled and chopped4 large parsnips peeled and chopped1 piece of ginger approx 5 cm peeled and grated2 heaped teaspoons of mild madras curry powder625 ml chicken or vegetable stock

MethodPlace oil in pan on a low heat, add thenob of butterFry the onions gently for a few minutes and add the grated ginger and curry powder, gently cook for fi ve minutes stirring so as not to stick to the panAdd the rest of the chopped vegetables and stir for a couple of minutesAdd the stock and turn up the heat, bring to the boil and simmer gently for 20 minutes or until the vegetables are cookedSeason to taste Put in a blender and blitz until smoothServe with a warm crusty roll and garnish with some coriander leaves. o

“Wonderful for lunch with crusty bread and a selection of local cheeses.”

Food & DrinkFood & Drink

Rhys says, “This dish is one I have done variations of several times. I love it for its simple but intense fl avours, its seasonality and its presentation. Curly kale and purple sprouting broccoli are two personal favourites of mine.”

Braised Beef Short RibWith caramelised onion and potato puree, purple sprouting broccoli, curly kale and natural braising reductionBy Rhys Jackson, Head ChefImperial Hotel Torquay

Prep Time 1 hour - Cooking Time 5 hours (oven does most of the work), Serves 4IngredientsFour bone-in beef short ribs4 medium sized white onions1 head of garlic1 baking potato1 carrot250 grams purple sprouting broccoli250ml red wine (more for drinking whilst eating is highly recommended)1 stalk of celeryButter (I never really measure butter, everything tastes better with more!)100 ml double cream250 grams curly kale2 stalks of thyme2 bay leavesSmall number of peppercorns (10-15)

MethodFirst start off with the ribs, I like to give them a lot of time in the oven, so they are literally falling off the bone. Rough chop one onion, the carrot, three cloves of garlic, the celery and the bay, thyme and peppercorns. Put into a pot with the beef ribs and red wine, cover with cool water. Place in the oven at 165°C for approx 4.5 hours, covered.

For the pureeFinely slice the onions, three cloves of garlic and small dice the potato.In a pot on medium heat with butter, add all ingredients and slowly cook until onions are golden brown and

potato is cooked. Add cream, reduce by 1/3 and then let cool slightly, puree in a blender until very smooth. Once ribs are cooked, set aside, reduce the braising liquid down until it coats the back of a spoon.Blanch the broccoli for 2 minutes in boiling water, chill immediately.

Putting it all togetherFry the broccoli with the kale in brown butter until hot.Re-heat the puree until piping hot and a smooth porridge like consistency.Make sure the beef is hot and the sauce too.Have fun with the presentation and enjoy! o



Pan Seared Cod Fillet with a Butterbean, Parsley & Smoked Bacon CassouletBy Dean Griffi n, Executive Head Chef, Berry Head Hotel, BrixhamCooking Time 15 minutes - Serves 4 Ingredients4 x 7 oz cod fi llets2 sliced shallots2 cloves of garlic8 rashers of smoked bacon – diced1 tbsp chopped parsley2 tbsp white wine800g cooked butterbeans½ pt double cream1 tbsp lemon juicesalt and pepper

MethodPan fry your fi sh in a non-stick frying pan, using a little oil for 3-4 minutes on each side with skin side

down fi rst, then turn over and take the pan off the heat. In another pan, add a tablespoon of oil then the bacon. After it starts colouring, add the shallots and garlic. When the shallots have softened, add the white wine, then the cream and bring to the boil. Add the butterbeans and simmer. Season with the lemon juice, parsley, salt and pepper. To serve, place your bean cassoulet in a bowl and serve the fi sh on top. o

“A very moreish dessert – mmm...”

Cranberry CheesecakeBy Linda Jeyes

Ingredients125 grams unsalted butter300 grams digestive biscuits300 grams fresh or frozen cranberriesZest of two lemonsJuice of 3 lemons250 grams icing sugar500 grams marscapone cheese200 grams cream cheese

MethodLightly butter a 23 cm spring form tin (loose bottomed).Melt the butter and meanwhile blitz the digestives in a food blender until they become fi ne crumbs. Mix the crumbs with melted butter and press the mixture evenly into the base of the tin then chill.Put cranberries in a pan with half the lemon juice and 175 grams of icing sugar on a medium heat for

If you’ve got a favourite recipe you’d like to share, drop us a line - facebook.com/englishrivieramag or email [email protected]

5 - 10 mins stirring. Taste and add more sugar if needed. The berries should be soft and are slightly thickened like a compote.Leave to cool. Mix the marscapone, cream cheese, remaining icing sugar and lemon zest and juice until smooth. Put half of the marscapone mixture onto the biscuit base, then a thin layer of cranberry compote and then add the remaining marscapone mixture. Chill for 4 hours or overnight. Remove from the tin and top with remaining cranberry compote. o

To serve, place your bean cassoulet in a bowl and serve the fi sh on top. o


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Romantic Retreat with Yoga!To celebrate St Valentine’s we take a look at a romantic retreat for two in the traditional fishing port of Brixham.

Stonewater Barn is a gorgeous barn conversion with oodles of charm and character that can be rented for a perfect winter getaway.

At this time of year, thoughts also turn to the best methods of keeping fit and what could be more revitalising than access to a yoga pavilion and exercise studio at the bottom of the garden?

Stonewater Barn has a cosy living room on the first floor with a woodburning stove to toast your toes and provide a wonderfully romantic atmosphere. If you want to batten down the hatches and chill on the sofa you’ll find a 40” flatscreen TV, a DVD player and and iPod docking station. w


Stonewater Barn is a gorgeous barn conversion with oodles of charm and character that can be rented for a perfect winter getaway.

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At this time of year, thoughts also turn to the best methods of keeping fi t and what could be more revitalising than access to a yoga pavilion and

exercise studio at the bottom of the garden?

� ere’s a stylish kitchen, ideal for whisking up a dinner for two and you can pick a few herbs for your culinary creation from the herb garden. If it’s warm enough you can sit out on the deck and enjoy a charcoal barbeque or just chill out in the pretty conservatory. � e deck overlooks a large lawn with a babbling stream – idyllic!

� e double bedroom has under� oor heating and an integrated wardrobe and the bathroom has a walk-in double shower cubicle. If you can tear yourself away, the delights of Brixham Harbour are a 20-minute stroll away. ¨

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❅28 February/March 2015 englishrivieramagazine.co.uk

Over 50 years ago in 1963, Torquay pioneered the very fi rst permanent dry ski slope in Britain after a prolonged period of snow in Devon had triggered interest in the sport. Anita Newcombe joins an adults-only ski coffee morning at the home of no-snow skiing.

If you are going to come along to a

coffee morning, having a couple of hours of skiing thrown in is

a wonderful way to socialise and the second

half of our session is relaxed and lively.

It has been raining heavily all night but the sun comes out on cue as I arrive at Torquay Alpine Ski Club at Barton Hall. I have skied before but never on a

dry slope and I am looking forward to having a go and � nding out who goes to ski co� ee mornings and why.

When I arrive, I get chatting to Kevin and Sam Illingworth who have been members of the club for 2 years and think the club is a great way to learn. � ey are getting slope-� t for their forthcoming holiday in Soldeu in Andorra and have also skied in France, Austria and Italy. I’m already discovering that the club is not just for beginners and youngsters. Everyone is very friendly and many are regulars at the weekly � ursday morning ski co� ee mornings, which turn out to be great fun.

Next I meet Mark Cleary, Chief Instructor who is responsible for the day-to-day running of the club. He has been an instructor at the club since 1986, leading a team of 22 self-employed ski instructors. � ey also teach snowboarding and were one of the � rst groups to teach the new boarding craze on ‘plastic’ slopes. Mark tells me that normal skis are used on the dry slope but they are shorter as this makes them easier to turn. � e slope is covered with a kind of shorthaired brush material laid in a diamond shaped pattern and ski poles are not generally used as they can get stuck into the matting and trip you up.

Now I am introduced to Rick McAuley, another instructor who has been skiing here since he was 14 years old. Rick kits me out with a pair of ski boots and skis and

we are now ready to hit the slopes. � ere are eight of us with 2 instructors and we are joined by Sophie Preston-Ellis who has been a ski and snowboard instructor for eight years and who is looking after me as ‘newbie’ today.

As it has been raining, the slopes are well lubricated which increases the speed our skis will travel. Great news for some! Newcomers all get the training and induction they need plus a safety brie� ng. Complete beginners will normally start on a � at part of the slope and learn basic skills of moving on the skis, how to descend, control speed and most importantly, how to stop. Of course falling over will usually do it but there are better methods to learn!

As I’ve been skiing before I just run through a number of exercises before attempting the slope and gaining some instruction on technique from both Sophie and Rick. Joining the rest of the group we have fun practising long wide turns and then shorter turns straight down the fall line. We are dragged back up the slope each time by a handy poma or button lift, alighting at various points on the slope depending on the height at which you fancy starting your ski down. After an hour, we break for

co� ee, cakes and chat in the clubhouse. If you are going to come along to a co� ee morning, having a couple of hours of skiing thrown in is a wonderful way to socialise and the second half of our session is relaxed and lively. It has been great training, great exercise and a very enjoyable session – I will de� nitely come again.

T ❅❅❅Cakes,Tea and Ski atTorquay Alpine Ski Club

❅❅

On Saturday and Sunday afternoons, youngsters can have fun on the Ringos, which are like great big colourful tyres that slide down the slopes. Ringo parties are hugely popular as guests need no experience and a half hour session is just £6 per person. You can hire the clubroom for a kids’ party for just £45 and bring in your own refreshments and cake. Perfect!

So what about the real white stu� ? Many members head to the slopes across Europe every winter and the instructors also visit numerous ski resorts. In fact Mark and several members of his instructors’ team are o� to Obergurgl in Austria this very evening for a few days.

So if you and your family would like to experience the joys of a skiing or snowboarding holiday in the near future or just enjoy some active fun in the fresh air, Torquay Alpine Ski Club is a brilliant place to start! ¨skitorquay.co.uk

Of course the club doesn’t only cater for adults partaking of co� ee, schuss and chat. Mark tells me that the club welcomes around 3500 skiers a year and the instructors regularly teach lots of school and scout groups. Local schools that ski here include Trinity, Torquay Boys’ and Torquay Girls’ Grammar Schools, Westlands, Torre Primary and many more.

Skiing and snowboarding sessions are available at all levels of ability with absolute beginners a speciality. On Saturdays a 12-noon session is run for 6 -16 year olds and there is Junior Racing on Monday evenings for over 8s. Helmets are worn for racing but are not a requirement otherwise. Open skiing is available for nine sessions a week during the winter months and you can either pay each time or buy a season pass for £100 that allows you to come as often as you like (plus a modest club membership fee).

Give It A Go - Skiing

29englishrivieramagazine.co.uk February/March 2015TTown refreshments and cake. Perfect!

Town refreshments and cake. Perfect!

So what about the real white stu� ? Many members

TSo what about the real white stu� ? Many members

head to the slopes across Europe every winter and the Thead to the slopes across Europe every winter and the instructors also visit numerous ski resorts. In fact Mark Tinstructors also visit numerous ski resorts. In fact Mark and several members of his instructors’ team are o� to Tand several members of his instructors’ team are o� to Obergurgl in Austria this very evening for a few days. TObergurgl in Austria this very evening for a few days.

So if you and your family would like to experience TSo if you and your family would like to experience the joys of a skiing or snowboarding holiday in the near Tthe joys of a skiing or snowboarding holiday in the near future or just enjoy some active fun in the fresh air, Tfuture or just enjoy some active fun in the fresh air, Torquay Alpine Ski Club is a brilliant place to start! TTorquay Alpine Ski Club is a brilliant place to start! ¨T¨

29T29February/March 2015TFebruary/March 2015


Cycling for all...Cycling’s never been more popular and there is a great variety of opportunities for all around the English Riviera. Whether you’re looking for fun, freedom or fi tness it’s a great time to get on a bike.

Bradley Wiggins’s Tour De France win in 2012 and recent Olympic successes have rekindled the nation’s love of cycling. With bicycles already

gaining in popularity as an environmentally friendly means of transport, providing an escape from the daily queue to work in the car, the local authority is very much behind provision of all manner of cycling facilities to both boost our � tness and improve the local environment. Having always been fans of everything two-wheeled, we decided to catch up on recent developments with a visit to the new Torbay Velopark and Scadson Woods Bike Park.

� e recently opened Torbay Velopark, at Clennon Valley in Paignton, o� ers seven day a week cycling away

from busy tra� c in an environment where serious racers can share a 1500m track with children taking their � rst tentative steps towards a lifetime of pedalling. It is the only outdoor closed circuit cycling facility in Devon and Cornwall. With links at strategic points, the circuit can be reduced to 1000 or 500m loops.

� e track is open from 8.30am until 4pm on weekdays and 10.30am until 4pm at the weekend. Prices are very reasonable for hourly sessions and can include hire of good quality bikes and helmets as well as ‘trailers’ for younger children.

On arrival on a cold but sunny Sunday morning we were kitted out with hire bikes by the friendly and knowledgeable sta� who ensured our seats were at the correct height and gave us a quick brie� ng before we

Getting set for the off!

Cycling


VeloparkFor more details on booking, events and membership contact Torbay Council Sports Team on 01803 208873 or email [email protected] Bike ParkTo fi nd out more about the downhill trails visit facebook.com/TQ3riders

set o� . � e track is very cleverly designed to European standards with gradients no greater than 4% up or down. � is means constant pedalling is possible with periods of recovery (going downhill!) following every incline. � e track is silky smooth so tyres can be pumped up to maximum pressure making progress very e� cient.

Without steep hills to climb there was no pu� ng and panting and the whole experience was very sociable. Although our group was of mixed abilities we caught each other up from time to time for a chat and eventually managed 15 laps in our one hour session, that’s just under 14 miles. We all agreed this was a great way to get some exercise on a Sunday morning without having to be mindful of tra� c, potholes or the inevitable steep hill.

As well as general cycling, the track is available for other activities such as athletics, Nordic walking and in-line skating (see the information panel for details).

Next stop is Scadson Bike Park, a set of three downhill trails built and maintained by a group of local cyclists called the TQ3 Riders in conjunction with Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust.

� e bike park is located in Scadson Woods in between Livermead and Cockington and can be accessed either from Cockington Road (using the Occombe Farm car park) or from Old Paignton Road.

� is is cycling at its most extreme and participation requires both a bike and safety equipment � t for purpose. Like the Velopark, helmets are obligatory and membership must be acquired. Day passes or annual memberships are available from Dialled-In Bikes at 249

Bumps and jumps all the way at Scadson Bike Park.

Torquay Road, Preston.� e three tracks are constantly evolving and feature

steep downhill sections with banked corners and jumps - not for the faint hearted! For safety there is a fourth route that is used solely for getting back up to the top.

On our visit we met a surprisingly wide age range of people from teens to forty plus, so if you’re looking for thrills as well as � tness (with a liberal coating of mud) then the bike park is well worth a visit.

Much work has also been carried out linking the Riviera’s on and o� -road cycle paths and cycle lanes over the last 18 months in an e� ort to create a cycle network that encourages and allows safe cycling throughout the Bay and beyond. Route maps and signposting are expected soon. ¨


Mud, mud, glorious mud!On a dark wet cold winter night Julian Rees gets in touch with his inner caveman on a visit to Pridhamsleigh Cavern with the Plymouth Caving Group

It’s early evening and I’m standing in a dark wet lane within earshot of a busy A38 just south of Buckfastleigh. I squeeze into a � eece lined ‘onesey’

followed by a heavy nylon boiler suit, welly boots and a hard hat with a head torch. I’m thinking that this wriggling and squeezing is good practice for the adventure ahead whilst being thankful for the warmth generated on what is one of the few really cold nights of the winter so far.

My hosts for the evening are the Plymouth Caving Group (PCG) which consists of about 50 members, between 20 and 30 of whom turn up to the regular Tuesday night session that happens throughout the year. My contact is Tara Beacroft, Cave Conservation O� cer at Kents Cavern in Torquay and she introduces me to the two leaders of tonight’s trip, Skip Greenwood and Bernard Page. I warn them I’m getting on in years and am not as � exible as I once was. Bernard tells me he’s in his sixties and only started caving a few years ago; he has no problems - I pipe down...

When everyone is kitted up we walk to the cave, stopping on the way to pay the local farmer his dues for access and to record our party’s presence on a chalk board for safety’s sake.

Caving can be a dangerous sport with most accidents caused by falls or exposure. Rescue can be extremely di� cult so before we venture underground there is a safety brie� ng. We split into two groups depending on experience and agree a meeting point at the deepest part of the cave. Although the club is fully insured, this is a dangerous sport and participation means an acceptance of the risks involved. In the case of Pridhamsleigh Cavern, no ropes or ladders are involved and the level of skill required would be similar to that of scrambling over a Dartmoor tor. � at said, what brings the additional, more mental challenge is that it all takes place deep within the bowels of the earth!

I imagine that many people reading this will be thinking, (in common with my wife), why on earth would you want to do this? Well for me it’s because I’ve always been slightly claustrophobic and challenging that situation seems the best way to overcome it. � e excitement of adventure, being

glorious mud!Mud, mud, Mud, mud, glorious mud!Mud, mud, Mud, mud, glorious mud!Mud, mud, glorious mud!Mud, mud,

somewhere and seeing things that relatively few people have experienced is a great leveller of fear. And besides, after every narrow squeeze lies a wide open chamber, a vaulted rooftop and awe inspiring features that have been millions of years in the making.

Devon’s caves were � rst fully explored by our forerunners in the early nineteenth century and many of the more delicate formations were plundered by these early explorers. Cavers today however, take conservation of their subterranean environments very seriously and there’s a strictly hands-o� policy when it comes to formations. If it’s not strictly necessary to touch anything then don’t; this way the beauty and fascination remains for the future. On our trip we discover helictites, formations growing at all angles rather than just up or down. Nobody in the group has noticed these before, despite having visited the cave dozens of times.

Within a few minutes of exploration everyone is plastered in sticky mud and it takes around an hour of squeezing, crawling and climbing to reach the bottom of the system. We take a break at the edge of the underground lake that lies at our deepest descent. Rainwater � lters fairly slowly down and over the course of the year the level only varies by a few feet meaning the majority of the cave is always accessible. � e water here is perfectly still and clear and after our exertions in the constant 14oC underground temperature, looks quite inviting!

Devon has quite a large selection of dry caves formed by water travelling underground when the sea level was far higher but the group also ventures further a� eld to areas such as the Mendips, Wales and Yorkshire to experience sink hole systems that have active water courses running through them. � ese provide a less muddy but far wetter experience. � e group also regularly explores mine workings throughout Devon and Cornwall.

If you’d like to give it a go and become a caver, a potholer, or a spelunker email Dave Warne, Chairman of the PGC at [email protected]. ¨

plymouthcavinggroup.org.uk trycaving.org.uk


Give It A Go - Caving

Helictite formations high on the cave wall at Pridhamsleigh Cavern

Squeezing through almost vertical holes gives you a great workout!

Tara Beacroft


Soaring Towers and Lyme Bay ViewsDistance: 3.5 miles Exertion: Moderate with some steep sections.Time: Allow 2 hoursTerrain: Coast path of varying quality - can be muddy. Not suitable for pushchairs or very young children. Dogs: Under close control on farmland.Refreshments: At Maidencombe.Start Postcode: TQ1 4SH

With ground cover of ancient ferns and bracken, the tall and spindly elder and sycamore woodland gives way to soaring

towers of much weathered red sandstone. One might expect to meet a prehistoric hunting party on a foraging trip from their Kents Cavern home at any turn in the path. Such is the feeling of ancientness one gets when entering the woodland at the beginning of this walk.

The formations in the Valley of The Rocks are awe-inspiring and make this walk an exciting adventure for families - watch out for the mud in the wetter months, welly boots are a must!

The woodland paths are shaded and cool but carpeted with pretty wild flowers in the spring. Further along, the pathway deviates from the South West Coast Path along permissive paths and open access land under the Countryside Access Scheme.

Take a break at Maidencombe and enjoy the picturesque beach or the ancient Thatched Tavern.

1Leave the Watcombe Beach car park via the stile in the north-east corner and follow the meandering path down through the woodland and into the Valley of the Rocks. The South West Coast Path joins from Watcombe on the right and the path continues downhill veering to the left where it rises fairly steeply on an uneven path with a steel handrail. There are long views above the treetops back towards Hope’s Nose and the Orestone and Tor Bay’s more familiar limestone formations.2 At the top of the path take the right hand fork downhill until you leave the woods.

3 Ignore the path to the left across open ground and proceed downhill following the coastline then re-enter the woodland via steep wooden steps.4 After 200 metres or so take the left hand turning to follow the coastline again. At this point one can either cross the stile into open farmland (dogs under close control here) or stay on the path that skirts the pasture along the cliff top. After more rise and fall the path descends into the thatched village of Maidencombe.5 The path leads into the Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust car park where one can turn right to detour down to the beach or proceed through the car park, following the metalled track uphill to the right, past several residences and back onto the coast path.6 The path is steep and undulating here. After half a mile take the left turn towards Gabwell Hill Road then after 200 metres another left turn over a stile onto open farmland.7 Follow the pathway back towards Maidencombe across fields and eventually over another stile onto a narrow pathway that leads back into the hamlet. There are stunning views across Lyme Bay to East Devon and as far as Portland on a fine day.8 From the car park follow the road (Rock House Lane) up past the orchard and on to the Court House and the village ’s famous Judas Tree. Take the path marked as the start of the John Musgrave Heritage Trail which follows a higher, meandering route back across farmland and into the ancient woodland to join the coast path again above the Valley of the Rocks which leads back to Watcombe Beach car park. ¨

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Places To Go


Goodrington is a delightful place to go for a stroll in the winter months and an exploration of Young’s Park with its pretty boating lakes, lovely green areas and wildfowl conservation area is a must.

Goodrington in Winter

Note: Goodrington Seashore Centre reopens on 01st April countryside-trust.org.uk/seashore

“I love barefoot walking.It is such a great thing to do before going to work, really

energises you.”

The area was formerly a marshland with a large lake called May’s Pool close to the beach. Local legend suggested that it was bottomless and

children were warned to keep well clear. In 1667 a Richard � orne drowned here after falling from his horse and the myth was perpetuated. Hundreds of years later when the park was being reclaimed, it was discovered that the ‘bottomless pool’ was only 2 foot deep! Now it is a boating lake, idyllically peaceful at this time of year.

In 1931, 80,000 tons of sandstone was moved in an attempt to prevent coastal erosion. Herbert Whitley of Paignton Zoo kindly provided many subtropical plants, shrubs and trees to enhance the zigzag paths that were put in. By 1935 the park, now known as Young’s Park was laid out in ornamental style.

Since then Goodrington and Young’s Park have become hugely popular with holidaymakers. � roughout the winter, however, it is much quieter and very popular with locals walking with or without their furry friends.

We spoke with Sue Mutlow, a local re� exologist who visits all year round and has been leading free, early morning barefoot walks for the last two years at Goodrington.

Sue tells us, “I love barefoot walking which I do from March to end of September on Goodrington South, 7.30 am - 8.30 am. It is such a great thing to do before going to work and really energises you. I like to � nish the walk with some Energy Medicine exercises.”

Sue explained why she loves Goodrington so much, “I do love Goodrington because each time it’s di� erent, due to the tide line, di� erent clouds, people, dogs and the vista to Brixham can change too. I love the Seashore Centre and

I enjoy looking in the rock pools to see what is lurking - together with seeing the natural wildlife around, swans, egrets, seals, dolphins; a basking shark was just next door near Broadsands.”

Sue also recommends the rock walk, “So many ways to ascend and descend and so pretty all lit up and with all the di� erent beach huts. From the top of Roundham you can see to Torquay and to Brixham - it is such a lovely place to be - the � r trees remind me of the Sound of Music, my favourite � lm. It’s great to see and hear the steam train - it allows me stop and wave. It’s just a good opportunity for me as a business woman to stop and look at the direction that I am going.”wContact Sue Mutlow via positive-steps-re� exology.co.ukGoodrington.

Sue Mutlow


Sense the creativity

April 1st Easter activities

May 10-11th Ceramics Festival at Cockington Court

July 14th Vintage Motorbikes

August Outdoor Theatre

September 15th Agatha Christie Festival -Murder, Mystery and Suspense at Cockington Court

October Big Draw Apple Day 22nd Halloween activities

November Food Markets

December 8th Christmas at Cockington Court

For details of activities please see our website www.cockingtoncourt.org

Events 2013

Free admission, open daily, 10am-4pm (Oct-Mar) 10am-5pm (Apr-Sep)

Cockington Court Craft Centre Cockington ,Torquay TQ2 6XA Tel: 01803 607230 Email: [email protected] www.cockingtoncourt.org

Details correct at time of print, but please visit the website for the most up to date list of events.

see

taste hear

smell

touch

l Craft studios

l Galleries and shops

l Tea Roomsl Play area

l Horse and carriage rides

l Manor House

l 460 acre award winning country park and gardens

l Arts and crafts workshopsl Weddings and room hire

• Craft Studios • Galleries and Shops • Tea Rooms• Manor House • Wedding and Room Hire• 460 acre award-winning Country Park and Gardens

Sense the creativity...

Places To Go


Hurrah for Young’s Park People!� is local voluntary group dedicated to caring for

Young’s Park and Goodrington Promenade was formed in 2007. Having successfully gained funding, the group’s volunteers have restored derelict � owerbeds and borders to their former glory, maintained the bandstand and done a great deal to support wildlife conservation. In the Wild Fowl Conservation Area they have provided interpretation boards, two extensions to the boardwalk, seats, CCTV cameras to cover the area and installed bird and bat boxes. � eir e� orts have been recognized with Green Flag status for the park and a number of other awards. � eir 100+ members provide new plants from their annual subscriptions.

Visitors can enjoy various bandstand events throughout the summer months with Carols In the Park every December.

Young’s Park People are always looking for new members and volunteers to help with the gardening. Get in touch via [email protected] if you’d like to help. ¨ypp.me.uk

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The Perfect Location For Your WeddingThe Perfect Location For Your Wedding

Brixham Torbay South DevonBerry Head Hotel

Classic Wedding Elegance at Torre Abbey

Lisa and Martin Morgan celebrated their marriage in the Ballroom at majestic Torre Abbey with a reception at Torquay’s Headland Hotel.



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On a beautiful day in July, Lisa arrived together with her father Brian Rogers at Torre Abbey for her wedding to Martin. She said, “It was

amazing! Walking down the aisle in the abbey’s ballroom and seeing Martin there was the best. Truly memorable.” Two Matrons of Honour, her sister Sarah Kell and her best friend Lois Morrissey also accompanied Lisa. A bridesmaid and two � ower girls completed the procession as proud Mum, Catherine Elliott looked on. � e bridal party and their guests then enjoyed a wedding breakfast for 60 followed by an evening party for 90-100 guests at the Headland Hotel. A stunning wedding cake was supplied by Dot’s Pantry in Torquay, Barton Bouquets supplied the � owers and the wedding dress was from � e Bridal Rooms of Wellswood. ¨

The Flavel seems incredibly well established as the cultural centre of Dartmouth. It’s a vibrant meeting place with a big programme of events

plus o� ering a superb venue for parties, meetings and even wedding receptions; a real asset to the town. However, just ten years ago, plans to build an arts centre in the town were very shaky indeed. � e team that were trying to push the plan forward were beset with obstructions and di� culties from several quarters. Funding was a major problem, and it was only their sheer tenacity, and a phenomenal fundraising campaign, that meant the scheme reached fruition. � e Flavel Centre Trust now owns and manages the freehold land on which � e Flavel operates and the arts centre has a very special place in people’s hearts.

� is February, the Flavel celebrates ten years of hosting great music, theatre, cinema and live screenings. For the tenth birthday, there will be a wide variety of events on o� er, so do please keep checking the website.

The Flavel’s Anniversary 10thThis year, the Flavel Arts Centre is celebrating its 10th Anniversary. We look back at how the Flavel got started and how it will be celebrating its fi rst decade.

Week-long celebrations include:

Plus children’s activities, exhibitions and raffl es.

Thursday 26 February 7.30pmBRNC Big Band� e much-loved volunteer band will be playing music from the big band era and recent dance classics. Tickets £8

Saturday 28 February 7.30pmTina May Sings Edith PiafAward winning vocalist Tina May brings to life the music of Edith Piaf, France’s most beloved entertainer, national icon and musical legend. Tickets £16.50

Saturday 21 February 11.00am-11.00pmDartmouth’s 1st Beer FestivalWith more than 20 real ales from breweries in the South Hams, there will be live entertainment, food and an opportunity to meet the brewers. Tickets £7 to include festival beer glass and four half pint beer tokens.

Sunday 22 February 12 noonFlavel 10th Anniversary LunchCelebratory 2-course lunch served in the Ballroom by Cru at the Flavel. Tickets £15



What’s On

Tuesday 3 March 8pmAndrew LawrenceHe has won loads of awards, been on telly more times than he can remember, but none of that has bought him any joy...come and � nd out why! Tickets £12.50

Wednesday 4 March 8pmTiffany StevensonNice, likeable and girly fun with support from comedian Jack Blake. Tickets are £10 or £34 to include 2 treatments from the Cove.

Thursday 5 March 8pmThe Noise Next Door� ey will be delivering explosive doses of their trademark o� the cu� comedy. Tickets £12.50

Friday 6 March. Supper 7 or 9pm, show 8pm*Curry & Comedy with Kernow King Tickets £20 to include your curry.

Friday 6 March, 8pmPete FirmanComedy and jaw dropping magic. Suitable 14yrs+. Tickets £14.50

Saturday 7 March 2pmJames Campbell Comedy 4 KidsJames is a pioneer in stand up comedy for children. Tickets £7 or buy 3 get 1 free.

All events are at the Flavel, except where marked *

In March there is also the hugely popular Dartmouth Comedy Festival in its 9th year

Volunteering� ere’s lots of ways you can join � e Flavel team as a volunteer. By getting involved, you will meet new friends, learn new skills, help a local charity, see some great shows, meet performers and the watch the latest � lms. Most days there are up to 15 volunteers at work at � e Flavel and roles can include:Stewarding � lms, lectures and live eventsBox O� ce ClerkBar StewardMarketingMaintenance/DIY/DecoratingAdministrationAccommodating performersFundraising

Flavel FriendsYou can also support � e Flavel by becoming a friend. � is gives you:Monthly Flavel Friends’ Newsletters & events programmesFriends-only events Pre-show talksArt Exhibition PreviewsCompetitions

the� avel.org.uk

Saturday 7 March 7pmAlexei SayleA preview of his second volume of his thought provoking and hilarious memoirs, with readings from ‘� atcher Stole My Trousers’ and ‘Stalin Ate My Homework’. Tickets £14, £12 concessions

Saturday 7 March 9pmTony Law� is show promises to be dangerously funny. 16yrs+ only. Tickets £12

The Flavel Arts Centre, Flavel Place, Dartmouth TQ6 9ND01803 839530thefl avel.org.uk

Treading the boards


Babbacombe TheatreBox Office 01803 328385Editor’s pickSTARLIGHTFROM 10 FEBRUARY (TUEsdAYs & WEdnEsdAYs)For those who love musicals old and new, Starlight will be a real treat with plenty of sparkle. Old favourites like Starlight Express and Love Never Dies are reassuringly present and there are some newer songs from shows currently doing well in London’s West End such as The Commitments and Memphis.

Flavel Arts CentreDartmouthBox Office 01803 839530Editor’s pickRsC LIVE - LOVE’s LABOUR’s LOsT11 FEBRUARYSummer 1914. Dedicating themselves to a life of study, the King and his friends take an oath to avoid the company of women for three years – but then the Princess of France and her ladies-in-waiting arrive. Shakespeare’s sparkling comedy mischievously suggests that the highest of all academic endeavours is the study of the opposite sex. Also worth seeing…dartmouth Rock14 March

Palace Theatre, PaigntonBox Office 01803 665800Editor’s picknOEL And GERTIE 20 & 21 MARCHPlaywright and composer Noel Coward and Gertrude Lawrence, acclaimed actress, were a remarkable team and their friendship became show business legend. Sheridan Morley’s irresistable and sophisticated entertainment is crafted from diaries and letters between Coward and Lawrence and features songs, sketches and scenes from Coward’s best loved works. It promises to be a glittering evening of sophistication, delight, wit, song and dance.Also worth seeing…Humble Boy11 - 14 FebruaryThe Wonderful Wizard of Oz18 February

Also worth seeing…Humble Boy11 - 14 FebruaryThe Wonderful Wizard of Oz18 February


Box Office(01803) 328385

ENTERTAININGENTERTAININGENTERTAININGENTERTAININGENTERTAININGENTERTAININGYOU

SATURDAY 4th APRIL 2.30pm

SATURDAY 4th APRIL 8pm - TICKETS £16.50Seniors/Children/Groups £15.50

SUNDAY 5th APRIL 8pm - TICKETS £16.50Seniors/Children/Groups £15.50

Princess Theatre, TorquayBox Offi ce 0844 8713023Editor’s pickOH WHAT A LOVELY WAR – THE MUSICAL17 – 21 MARCHJoan Littlewood’s legendary musical has been revived to commemorate the 100th anniversary of World War One. Originally produced by Joan Littlewood at the � eatre Royal Stratford East, Oh What A Lovely War is a satirical masterpiece, which was made into a classic � lm in 1969, starring amongst others Maggie Smith, John Gielgud and John Mills.Also worth seeing…Brendan Cole – A Night to Remember14 March

Little Theatre, TorquayBox Offi ce 01803 299330Editor’s pickLETTICE AND LOVAGE14 – 21 MARCHLettice Du� et, an expert on Elizabethan cuisine and medieval weaponry, is an indefatigable but da� y enthusiast of history and the theatre. As a tour guide at Fustian House, one of the least stately of London’s stately homes, she theatrically embellishes its historical past, ultimately coming up on the radar of Lotte Schon, an inspector from the Preservation Trust. Neither impressed or entertained by Lettice’s freewheeling history lessons, Schon � res her. Not one however, to go without a � ght, Lettice engages the stoic, conventional Lotte in battle to the death of all that is sacred to the Empire and the crown. (A TOADS season production)Also worth seeing…The Crucible 14 – 21 February


Brought to you by the English Riviera Tourism Companywww.englishriviera.co.uk/whats-on

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Your official English Riviera events calendar

Further information about all of the events can be found by calling 01803 211 211 or visiting us in person at our Visitor Information Centre on Torquay Harbourside. There are also a number of Visitor Information Points throughout the resort.


Around the BayFebruary & March

Valentine Dinner, Berry HeadFebruary 14What better place to celebrate Valentine’s Night than the stunning, romantic headland of Berry Head? Treat yourselves to a top quality, home-cooked 3-course meal with a glass of bubbly on arrival plus co� ee or tea served with petit fours. � ere’ll be romantic stargazing on your walk back to the car park (weather dependent!)Cost: £20 per person.The Guardhouse Café, Berry Head National Nature Reserve, Brixham TQ5 9AW01803 855778 guardhousecafe.com

The Devon Wedding Show8 FebruaryA visit to � e Devon Wedding Show in Torquay is an absolute must for all those planning their perfect wedding! From dresses, to � owers, cakes, honeymoons and cars, � nd all you need under one roof. Lots of exhibitors providing thousands of inspirational ideas for your big day plus glamorous catwalk shows.Riviera International Centre, Chestnut Avenue, Torquay TQ2 5LZ01803 299992 rivieracentre.co.uk

Project Lydos by Louise Courtnell, Hannah’s7 February – 15 MarchA free exhibition showing a series of 50 oil paintings depicting two generations of local people from the nearby twin � shing villages of Kingsand and Cawsand. � is visual representation of a close-knit community also includes a childhood photograph, a brief history and memories of village life during the war years for each subject. The Gallery, Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot TQ12 6NQ01626 325800 discoverhannahs.org

Brixham Folk Club6 FebruaryOrganised by Anne and Steve Gill with help from Maggie Du� y and John Miles.Lounge Bar, Brixham Theatre, New Road, Brixham, TQ5 8LX01803 858394 batsweb.org.uk

The Heritage of Torbay, Torre Abbey6 February – 27 MarchA series of eight Friday afternoon lectures by local historian John Risdon. Cost: £40 for the full course or £6 per event, time: 2 – 4.30pm.The King’s Drive, Torquay TQ2 5JE 01803 293593 torre-abbey.org.uk

The Assam Garden, Torbay Film Club5 FebruaryTorbay Film Club is a not for pro� t group run by volunteers who want to see the � nest classic and world cinema in Torbay. Members vote for all of the � lms in the season. Membership of Torbay Film Club costs £30, includes entry to 9 � lms and is valid for 12 months (£25 for under 25s). £5.50 non-members per screening.St Matthias Church, Babbacombe Road, Torquay TQ1 1HWtorbayfi lmclub.co.uk

What’s On

Italian Cookery MasterclassOccombe Farm8 FebruaryIf you’ve acquired a taste for Italian cuisine and want to advance your culinary skills, then join Italian chef Giovanni Butto for a day of traditional Italian cookery. Giovanni will take you through antipasti, pasta, meat dishes, side courses and desserts. Try your hand at making a range of crostinis, pollo cacciatora, ricotta and spinach ravioli and pomodori ripieni alongside a dessert of torta di ricotta al limone with vanilla ice cream. Time: 10am-4pm, cost: £70 includes lunch, booking essential.Preston Down Road, Paignton, TQ3 1RN01803 520022 countryside-trust.org.uk

Artists’ Conversations: Holly Davey Torre Abbey24 FebruaryArtists’ Conversations is a series of Open Dialogue conversations as part of the Smooth Space residency project at Torre Abbey. � is month, invited artist Holly Davey, will talk on Memory, Object and the Archive. Event is free but places should be booked. Time: 6.30pm.Learning Lab, Torre Abbey, The King’s Drive, Torquay TQ2 5JE 01803 293593 torre-abbey.org.uk


Charity Variety Show in aid THHN, Torquay28 FebruaryEnjoy a charity variety show in aid of Torbay Holiday Helpers Network.Rainbow International Hotel, Belgrave Road, Torquay TQ2 5HJ07941 57318

A Gastronomic Giro D’ItaliaBerry Head27 FebruaryLucy will bring her knowledge and passion for authentic, regional Italian food and drink to Berry Head. � is � rst evening is from the Toscana region. Cost: £15 for a 3-course set menu, including a welcome drink, booking essential.The Guardhouse Café, Berry Head National Nature Reserve, Brixham TQ5 9AW01803 855778 guardhousecafe.com

Let’s Go Mexican, Occombe Farm20 FebruaryGet your Mexican hat on and join in a hands-on cookery day making Mexican favourites including salsa, bread tortillas, polvorones (Mexican sugar cookies), quesadillas and nachos. With all ingredients provided, you just need to bring along your appetite and some Tupperware to take your goodies home with you!Time: 10am-4pm, cost: £30 per child, booking essential, children can be left without their parents.Preston Down Road, Paignton, TQ3 1RN01803 520022 countryside-trust.org.uk

Chinese New Year, Berry Head Hotel19 FebruaryWelcome in the Year of the Goat with a special oriental themed bu� et at £12.95 per person. Each year in the Chinese calendar is represented by one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. Based on the lunar and solar calendars, the actual date of Chinese New Year varies, but always falls between late January and mid-February.Berry Head Road, Brixham TQ5 9AJ01803 853225 berryheadhotel.com

Occombe Kids Wild West Adventure Trail17 – 19 FebruaryEnjoy a family adventure trail with challenges to test the bravest cowboy and cowgirl out there. � ere’s also a fancy dress competition, hobby horse making and pony rides! Pick up a trail sheet from Occombe Farm Visitor Centre. Time: 10 am–3 pm, cost: £3.50 per child, no booking required.Preston Down Road, Paignton, TQ3 1RN01803 520022 countryside-trust.org.uk

Valentine Dinner & DanceBerry Head Hotel14 FebruarySpoil your loved one with a romantic dinner. Enjoy canapés & a glass of bubbly on arrival before sinking in to a mouth watering 4-course gourmet dinner followed by co� ee, with a red rose for the ladies. � ere will be entertainment after dinner for those who may like to dance. Cost: £30.00 per person.Berry Head Road, Brixham TQ5 9AJ01803 853225 berryheadhotel.com

Make Your Own Wild ArtColeton Fishacre18 FebruaryCome and create a piece of wild art in the Coleton Fishacre gardens as the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ fun continues this summer. Countryside rangers have beachcombed the South Devon coastline for bits and pieces to turn into wild art. If you’re an aspiring artist or a den builder, come and help turn their collection of materials into a work of art. Time: 2pm, cost £3 per child. Booking not needed. Normal admission charges apply.Brownstone Road, Kingswear, TQ6 0EQ01803 842382 nationaltrust.org.uk/coleton-fi shacre


What’s On

Bread Making for BeginnersOccombe Farm1 MarchLearn the essentials of breadmaking and discover how quick and easy producing delicious loaves of this everyday food staple can be. You will become hands-on in the breadmaking process during this workshop, getting to grips with simple loaves including wholemeal, white, millers or granary, soda bread, cinnamon rolls and foccacia - plus leave armed with plenty of baked goods to take home. Time: 10am to 4pm, cost: £75 to include lunch, booking essential.Preston Down Road, Paignton, TQ3 1RN01803 520022 countryside-trust.org.uk

Bicycle Thieves, Torbay Film Club5 MarchTorbay Film Club is a not for profit group run by volunteers who want to see the finest classic and world cinema in Torbay. Members vote for all of the films in the season. Membership of Torbay Film Club costs £30, includes entry to 9 films and is valid for 12 months (£25 for under 25s). £5.50 non-members per screening.St Matthias Church, Babbacombe Road, Torquay TQ1 1HWtorbayfilmclub.co.uk

A Gastronomic Giro D’ItaliaBerry Head6 MarchLucy brings her knowledge and passion for authentic, regional Italian food and drink to Berry Head. The second evening is from the Campania region. Cost: £15 for a 3-course set menu, including a welcome drink, booking essential.The Guardhouse Café, Berry Head National Nature Reserve, Brixham TQ5 9AW01803 855778 http://guardhousecafe.com

Roller Disco, Hannahs28 FebruaryExpect family-friendly fun and games galore, a tuck shop, skate hire and all safety equipment provided as the Revolution Skate return for their monthly roller disco. Time: 3.30pm – 5.30pm – Family Skate, 7pm – 9.30pm – Open Skate (everyone welcome!). Cost: £4 entry, 50p skate hire.The Sports Hall, Hannah’s at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot TQ12 6NQ01626 325825 discoversealehayne.org

Brixham Folk Club6 MarchOrganised by Anne and Steve Gill with help from Maggie Duffy and John Miles.Lounge Bar, Brixham Theatre, New Road, Brixham, TQ5 8LX01803 858394 batsweb.org.uk

Thai Night, Berry Head Hotel12 MarchWhether sweet, sour, hot or salty, harmony is the guiding principle behind Thai cuisine. Why not try a Thai buffet at the Berry Head. Cost: £12.95 per person.Berry Head Road, Brixham TQ5 9AJ01803 853225 berryheadhotel.com

A Gastronomic Giro D’ItaliaBerry Head13 MarchLucy brings her knowledge and passion for authentic, regional Italian food and drink to Berry Head. The third evening is from the Sicilia region. Cost: £15 for a 3-course set menu, including a welcome drink, booking essential.The Guardhouse Café, Berry Head National Nature Reserve, Brixham TQ5 9AW01803 855778 http://guardhousecafe.com


What’s On

Spring Flower Walks, Greenway14, 19, 28 MarchGreenway’s romantic woodland garden is renowned for its spring flowers - from camellias to rhododendrons, as well as swathes of spring bulbs. This walk and talk is a great way to find out all about what’s in flower, and the history of the garden. Finish your walk in the House Kitchen and enjoy soup and hot drinks to refresh you following an enjoyable and educational walk. Cost: Adult £10, Child £8 (under 12). Normal admission charges apply.Greenway Road, Galmpton, Brixham TQ5 0ES01803 842382 nationaltrust.org.uk/greenway

We’ll Meet Again Charity Weekend13 – 15 MarchBeverley Holiday’s 3-day We’ll Meet Again Charity Weekend will celebrate the glamorous 40s and 50s with classic cars, trade stalls, period costume hire, authentic 1940s make overs and some great musical entertainment. The event is in aid of The Royal British Legion and Sidmouth Lifeboat and tickets can be purchased admission only or a part of a stayover package. Goodrington Road, Paignton TQ4 7JE07957 715884 wmaweekend.co.uk 01803 843887 beverley-holidays.co.uk (quote WMA)

An Evening at Fawlty Towers, Hannahs13 MarchEnjoy a night of comedy cabaret entertainment, as the staff from the most infamous hotel on the English Riviera take over the Bistro at Hannahs. In association with Moonstone Theatre Company, expect a unique and interactive comedy dining experience, perfect for fans of the TV show. Includes a gourmet three-course supper. 7pm for a 7.30pm start. £25 including food and entertainment. Advance booking essential. The Bistro, Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot TQ12 6NQ01626 325825 discoversealehayne.org

Torbay Schools Festival of Performing Arts18 – 25 MarchYoung Torbay musicians will showcase their talents at the Bay’s premier music event for young people. The festival is expected to attract over two thousand performers enabling them to experience the excitement and achievement associated with performing.Riviera International Centre, Chestnut Avenue, Torquay TQ2 5LZ01803 299992 rivieracentre.co.uk

A Gastronomic Giro D’Italia Berry Head20 MarchLucy brings her knowledge and passion for authentic, regional Italian food and drink to Berry Head. The fourth evening is from the Trentina / Alto Adige region. Cost: £15 for a 3-course set menu, including a welcome drink, booking essential.The Guardhouse Café, Berry Head National Nature Reserve, Brixham TQ5 9AW01803 855778 http://guardhousecafe.com

Torbay Singers’ Spring Concert21 March & 22 MarchThe Torbay Singers, a chamber choir that has been performing in South Devon for over 40 years presents Victoria Requiem with Lenten Motets. 7.15pm. 21 March 7.30pm Buckfast Abbey, Buckfastleigh22 March 3.00pm Crediton Parish Church, CreditonTickets £10 - online, phone or on the door. 01803 269840 torbaysingers.com

Spring Photography at Greenway21 March

Join Greenway’s volunteer photographer in the beautiful setting of the glorious spring gardens. Take away with you some useful tips to accompany your photos. Includes a delicious lunch of homemade soup. Booking essential, cost £18, normal admissions apply with NT members free as usual.Greenway Road, Galmpton, Brixham TQ5 0ES01803 842382 nationaltrust.org.uk/greenway

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Holiday includes: 3 nights bed and full English breakfast • Stop at Windsor • Optional Chelsea Flower Show • Canal cruise from Camden Lock to Little Venice • Queen Elizabeth OlympicPark & ArcelorMittal Orbit • Travel by Pullman coach • Accompanied by our Tour Manager

Where would you like to be in 2015?

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What’s OnItalian Night, Berry Head Hotel26 MarchBuon Appetito! Try something different with an Italian themed buffet for £12.95 per person at the Berry Head’s Italian Night.Berry Head Road, Brixham TQ5 9AJ01803 853225 berryheadhotel.com

Babbacombe Model Village Easter Egg Trail28 March – 12 AprilA chocolate treat for all successful young explorers! Time: 10am to 4pm.Hampton Avenue, Torquay TQ1 3LA01803 315315 babbacombemodelvillage.co.uk

Easter Underground Fun, Kents Cavern28 March – 12 AprilFun cave tours all day every day with lots of Easter activities to complete. Piece together the Dino facts around the caves and solve the Cavog riddles to see if you can win an Easter surprise! Activities are included in the cave admission price, no booking required.Ilsham Road, Torquay TQ1 2JF01803 215136 kents-cavern.co.uk

Easter Fun at Coleton Fishacre28 March to 12 AprilJoin a host of exciting activities including a trail round the garden leading to your own Cadbury’s chocolate ‘Egghead!’ and other fun things to do. £2 per child, parking spaces must be booked in advance, normal admission charges apply.Brownstone Road, Kingswear, TQ6 0EQ01803 842382 nationaltrust.org.uk/coleton-fishacre

Dinosaur Zoo, Torquay27 – 29 MarchDirect from Australia, Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo brings dinosaurs to the stage as you’ve never seen them before, up close and personal! Children can watch wide-eyed from a safe distance or dare to get right up close to the creatures. Suitable for ages 3+. Tickets from £13.50 to £16. Tickets available at English Riviera Visitor Centre on Torquay harbourside.Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, Torquay TQ2 5EZatgtickets.com

Anderton & Rowlands Fun Fair, Paignton28 March – 12 AprilThe Anderton and Rowlands Fun Fair returns to Paignton Green.Paignton TQ4 6BW

Reptile Ramble, Paignton Zoo31 MarchJoin an after hours’ guided tour of Reptile Tropics and Crocodile Swamp and get an exclusive opportunity to watch the crocodiles being fed! Enjoy a rare chance to meet experienced keepers and experts in reptile conservation plus refreshments, a presentation and Q & A session with the keepers. Cost: £15 non-members, £13 members.Totnes Road, Paignton TQ4 7EU0844 474 2224 paigntonzoo.org.uk

Feva Zone Training, Torquay28 and 29 MarchDinghy sailing from Royal Torbay Yacht Club.Beacon Terrace, Torquay, TQ1 2BHrtyc.org

Holding an event in April or May? E-mail us at

[email protected] and we’ll list it in the next issue


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Relax, sit back & enjoy

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Fri 22nd - Sun 24th May 2015, 2 nightsCHELSEA FLOWER SHOW£255 per person (based on 2 sharing)4«««« Victoria Park Plaza HotelFri 19th - Tues 23rd June 2015, 4 nightsSANDRINGHAM AND THE NORFOLK BROADS £299 per person (based on 2 sharing)All excursions includedFri 21st - Sun 23rd August 2015, 2 nightsCORONATIONS & CELEBRATIONS LONDON TOURInc WESTMINSTER ABBEY & BUCKINGHAM PALACE£230 per person (based on 2 sharing)

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SHORT BREAKS

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10th February14th February20th February

25th February

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Riviera Charities


In the first of a series focusing on Riviera charities and volunteer organisations we meet Peter Hosking, chairman of the Torbay Prostate Support Association (TPSA).

Former Brixham Lifeboat chairman Peter Hosking set up the TPSA in 1999 along with seven other cancer patients and their carers. This came about

after his own personal battle to beat an aggressive form of prostate cancer. Peter was diagnosed after a routine health check in retirement and was lucky to catch the cancer early in its development. He was successfully treated over a seven month period at Torbay Hospital and still receives advanced treatment on a monthly basis.

Peter recounts how he was humbled by the reassurance and moral support showed by the medical team as well as his family and friends. At the time, prostate cancer received very little funding from central government and although that situation has now improved, the disease receives little publicity outside the realms of those directly affected.

As many as 4 out of 10 men will have prostate cancer but many will never know as the strain may be docile or benign yet the condition still kills as many as 10,000 men each year. However, it does feature in the list of top ten most survivable male cancers.

The main aims of the TPSA are to create awareness amongst the community, provide support to patients and their carers and to provide funding for the purchase of equipment for patient treatment. Since its creation the charity has raised almost half a million pounds and has purchased many essential pieces of equipment for Torbay hospital as well as providing two Macmillan trained

Get in touch...If you’d like to nominate the TPSA as your charity of the year or would like more information on volunteering or just making a donation, call the chairman, Peter Hosking on 01803 842886 or email [email protected]

In 2012 the charity’s efforts were

recognised with the Queens Award for Voluntary Service.

The Lord Lieutenant of Devon, Peter Hosking (Chairman)and David Wakely (Trustee).

‘buddies’ who support both patients and their relatives throughout treatment and beyond, in person and over the phone. There are two further volunteer members awaiting Macmillan training.

The charity primarily creates awareness through its comprehensive website at tpsa.org.uk where details of the

condition, its treatment as well as patient stories can be found. It holds quarterly meetings for patients and carers as well as providing a newsletter to supporters outlining recent achievements. Peter tells me that the website has received enquiries from individuals as far afield as Canada and Australia.

The charity gives talks to local groups and clubs and distributes pamphlets throughout the Bay as part of its community education programme. As prostate cancer often has no obvious outward symptoms,

awareness is the key factor in early diagnosis. The charity raises money by organising concerts and

coffee mornings and via gift aid supported donations. ¨tpsa.org.uk

TPSA


01803 845837

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Gardening


Lis’s garden includes a wide range of � owering plants but it is the veg patch and greenhouse that receive the most attention. Lis will share some of the knowledge she has gained from her father (a professional gardener) from working at Dobies and also from her own trial and error. Storm, the Jack Russell is bound to chip in now and then. � at’s what terriers do!

Early Spring in the GardenEarly spring can be a delightful time for planning the gardening year ahead. Lis Wallace from Dobies of Devon, based in Paignton offers us some great practical tips. They’ve been in the gardening business since 1880 so they know a thing or two!Review and PlanAt this time of year, gardening is often more about sitting down with a cup of tea and planning rather than actually getting out there with wellies, trowel and enthusiasm.

� e weather will dictate how much gardening we can do and there really is no point braving it on wet or icy days as you’ll just compact the soil and cause more harm than good. Planning is rarely time wasted and will result in maximum use of the space available with plants growing happily in the right place, producing � owers, fruits or veg in abundance.

So have a think about what worked well in the garden last year and what perhaps needs improving. Which colours contrasted or complemented one another and what new plants would you like to try in this year’s tubs and hanging baskets? From the veg patch, what did you enjoy eating and what did you simply grow too much of? Growing from SeedTo give yourself a head start, you can bring your gardening indoors and use a heated greenhouse, windowsill and/or conservatory for raising seedlings. Late February and into March is prime time for raising plants from seed – the cheapest and possibly most rewarding way of � lling your garden.

Dobies of Devon recently came top in a vegetable seed trial conducted by Which? � eir on-site seed testing laboratory and trial grounds at Occombe takes the risk out of seed sowing. All you need do is check on the seed packet for sowing dates and follow the detailed

instructions.Plants for Coastal GardensCoastal gardens can be tricky with plants struggling to cope with wind and salty air so again some planning and research is needed. Tough plants are needed such as tamarisk, heather, lavender, sedum and California poppy. Sea pinks are perfect for coastal gardens and can be easily grown from seed sown from mid-February onwards, as can Red Hot Pokers.

Many vegetables will grow happily in coastal gardens especially brassicas and cruciform. � ose most tolerant of salty air include beets, kale, spinach and asparagus but potatoes, cabbage, peas and broccoli will also perform well.

If you like the look of a plant but are unsure as to whether it will be suitable for a coastal garden, then check out the leaves. Tough, leathery and/or hairy leaves are a good sign as they will reduce moisture loss and protect against salt. Another option is to take a look in the beautiful public spaces around the Bay plus take a peek in your neighbours’ gardens and see what grows well for them. Chances are it will do the same for you. ¨ dobies.co.uk


Anita and Richard Newcombe (English Riviera Magazine) Chrissie and Geoff Sanders, Michelle Carey (Cary Arms)

Mark Salmon (Bays Brewery), Peter Salmon (Bays Brewery) and Paul Hiles (Windward Supplies)

Steve Poyner (Cary Arms), Mary Holbrook, Anne Farzer, Sam Lucy (Cary Arms) Sue Hallam, Ian Solkin (Cary Arms), Anne Broad

Cocktails at The Cary ArmsThe Cary Arms, known as ‘The Inn on the Beach’ in Babbacombe celebrated the festive season with a private cocktail party in the hotel’s beautiful residents’ lounge.

Above Right Tim Treneary (Skivvies Torbay) and Daniel Darlow (Devon Leather Care)

Right Stephen Beasley (Village Property) and Vicky Seiflow (Eco Trades)

Richard Newcombe (English Riviera Magazine), Kate Haskell (ITV West Country) and Mark Haskell (Teignmouth Golf Club)

Members at the Breakfast Networking Club Torbay met at the Grand Hotel, Torquay.

Breakfast Network

Andy Coleman (DEA Torbay), Jim Thomson (SWCL) and Ron Peterson (ADS Windows & Doors)

Quentin O’Gorman (Q-Ball Media) and Sue Coleman (DEA Torbay)


Miscellanea at Artizan GalleryArtizan Gallery held a private viewing for guests to preview works by several local artists in an exhibition entitled Miscellanea.

David Cowell (artist)

Julie Brandon (Artizan Gallery), Cllr Nicole Amil, Anna Grayson (artist) and Jennifer NicholsonJulian Rees (English Riviera Magazine) and Peter Stride (artist)

Lisa Richards and Becky Nuttall (both artists) Vera Stride and Julie BrandonGreg Newman (artist)

Lee Pover (artist) and Rachel Rees

Social Diary

The English Riviera Tourism Company held their Winter Industry Update at the Imperial Hotel in Torquay.

Winter Update

Ian Handford (Torbay Civic Society) and Chris Hart (Chairman ERTC)

Simon & Sarah James

(Hob Nobbs) and Carolyn

Custerson (Chief Executive ERTC)

Simon Read, Neil Worrell, Jackie Robinson (all

Golden Hind), Richard Cuming

(Bygones)


Royal British Legion Christmas Lunch

Over 100 members of the Royal British Legion attended the annual luncheon at the Redcliffe Hotel in Paignton.

Jane Blewitt-Owen, Brian Jeffery and Keith Risby

Carol, Peter and Sheila Goldsmith, Ian & Lesley Brant and Nicola Monks

Gundel Bonfield, Major Ron Goodwin MBE (President), David Henshaw (Chairman), Doris Goodwin , Kevin Jeffery (Secretary)

Ralph & Caroline Howard-Williams, Roger & Mary Garratt, John Prior and Sue Stevens

Maria & Mike Norsworthy, Bethanie Taylor, Ronnie Carter and Karen Taylor

Diggy, Jackie Kemp, Dave & Sue Hayward

Carol & John Michell, Arthur & Claudette Coulton, and Pat & Peter Brown.

David Henshaw, Lesley Brant, Major Ron Goodwin MBE, Ian Brant and Nicola Monks,

Cathy Elliott, Tony Brown, Marie Gee, Irene Cleanthons, Alex Green and Sam Roberts

Jan Reid, Maurice Mann, Doreen & David Lewis, Katherine Box and John Steel.


Carols in the CourtyardTorbay Singers, Greenway staff and volunteers joined the local community for an evening of carols, mulled cider and mince pies in the courtyard at Greenway.

Social Diary

Contact us at: [email protected]@EngRivieraMagfacebook.com/englishriveramagif you are hosting an event you would like us to include. UUUUU

Alan Forster, Carol Forster, Heather Ball, Audrey Goddard

Eve, Teresa, Stephen and Jessica Lewis

Anne Lunt, Sarah Giles, Claire Smith, Susan Page, Amy Page

Geoff Worden, Carol Pryce, Andrew Pryce

Vivien Henley, Sabina Collier,

and Carly Mays (National Trust

Greenway)

Tony and Suzanne

Turner

Roy and Dinah Matthews

Katherine and Jacqueline Ward

The Riviera International Centre is redesigning its Bay Brasserie, which will become known as the Aqua Lounge in early February. The new café will be of a contemporary and open plan design incorporating a new colour scheme, bespoke counters and bar, modern self-service fridges, new lounge chairs and dining furniture, plus a pirate themed soft play area for children. As well as light snacks, gourmet burgers, fresh cakes and an extensive children’s menu, the Aqua Lounge will be serving Starbucks coffees.

Simon Jolly, General Manger said, “We have been exploring options with Starbucks for a couple of years and the planned modernisation of our coffee shop presented the perfect opportunity for us to begin working with the Starbucks brand. We are therefore delighted to be joining others such as selected Marriot and Crown Plaza Hotels, Heathrow Terminal 5 and P&O Ferries.” There will be family launch day for the new café on Saturday 14th February, from 11am to 3pm. o

RICC’s New Aqua Lounge

BusinessBreaks...

Designer Comes Home Keeping the West Open for BusinessTorquay-born jeans designer and entrepreneur, Sally

Allen-Gerard, says she’s delighted to be ‘back home’ after moving her business from London to the English

Riviera and creating a new shopping experience. Sally has opened her first Wizard Jeans factory outlet shop within Babbacombe Business Park. In addition to a full range of jeans, the new shop sells jackets, accessories, blouses and casual wear as well as one-off pieces by French and Italian designers,

many at heavily discounted prices. Dubbed ‘denim spanx’, the jeans come in a range of styles and shapes to suit both men and women. They are sold online around the world, in shops in the United Kingdom and across Australia and New Zealand. Sally, who recently won a NatWest Venus Award for Lifetime Achievement, has had a varied career. She ran a boating and leisure business in Barbados and worked in banking, before starting a Marketing and Events Company dealing with high-profile clients, including Lord’s Cricket Ground and Guinness. o wizardjeans.com

Stagecoach South West was awarded a Special Commendation at the 2014 UK Bus Awards held recently in London. The commendation was awarded for ‘Keeping the West Open for Business’ during the Dawlish rail closure. Following the unprecedented weather events of February last year which resulted in the closure of the main rail line into the South West, Stagecoach introduced a range of measures to help local residents continue about their daily business. These included extending the Exeter Megarider Plus to include Dawlish and the Torbay Ticket zone as far as Teignmouth. They also offered discounts of up to 50% on single and return fares on key routes, accepted rail tickets on bus services and provided free travel for local residents displaced from their homes. o


BusinessBreaks...

Tally Ho! – was the cry of the early stage coachman arriving in town and bringing news from afar, but it’s also the name of a local holiday company, celebrating an impressive 90 years in business this year.Manager Don McIntosh explains, “Many Devonians know the Tally Ho name for our local bus services’, ‘but we did in fact offer holidays as far back as the 1920s, on the Tally Ho Sunshine Coach.” When the current owners took over, they took the opportunity to resurrect the mothballed holiday business and since 2009 Tally Ho has been gaining a reputation for excellent holidays and short breaks to the UK and Europe. Don McIntosh describes the Tally Ho experience, “We pride ourselves on offering a really top quality experience combined with friendly and efficient service. Convenient pick-up points, lovely people, great location, delightful hotels and fantastic experiences; a truly modern

Ian Gray, local inventor of a compact and manoeuvrable personal mobility vehicle, RollerScoot, has taken delivery of the first batch of products after a successful crowd funding campaign earlier this year. Ian, who has an office at Paignton’s South West Energy Centre, was inspired by a moving walkway in a supermarket. The stand-on mobility device has been designed for those who are less able-bodied including those who use a mobility scooter, a zimmer frame or walking stick. Advanced features such as lithium-ion batteries, an aluminium frame, two motors and a joystick controller make the RollerScoot the lightest, most manoeuvrable personal mobility vehicle in the world. RollerScoot has already scooped some awards including the Naidex New Product Award and a Small Business Sunday award from Dragon Den’s Theo Paphitis. Ian said: “When I invented this device I never dared hope that it would be the success that it now promises to be.” o

Beverley Holidays and Whitehill Park in Paignton, owned by the Jeavons family, is investing £1million in 2015. Beverley Holidays is offering guests 26 brand new Premier Plus and Platinum caravans, due to launch this spring. A Platinum Hot Tub lodge has also been added to its fleet of luxury lodges. Sister holiday park Whitehill has a brand new development of 14 boutique Bouja caravans which will open to guests at Easter. Whitehill Park’s latest accommodation offering will feature a VIP range with outdoor hot tubs. Described as ‘a new dawn in caravanning’, the boutique caravans will also come with funky outdoor bean bags, iPod docking stations, WiFi and Wii U, plus a dog-friendly option. o

90th Celebration for Tally Ho!

RollerScoot £1m Investment for Holiday Parks

BusinessBreaks...


experience, ‘Sunshine Coach’ holidays for the 21st Century!”So if you are tempted by the idea of Monet’s garden in France, the medieval architecture and mountain scenery of Cantabria or the Celtic legends of Scotland, start by browsing Tally Ho’s 2015 holiday brochure. otallyhoholidays.co.uk

Michael Jeavons

TORQUAY HARBOURSIDE

PAY ONCE RETURN FREE 7 DAYSConditions apply

livingcoasts.org.uk 0844 474 3366

The law which governs our rights at work and the obligations we owe our employees is ever changing and 2015 looks set to be no exception. The General Election in May only adds to the likelihood of further change ahead with the main parties each outlining proposals for reform.

Significant changes are planned for parents – for those with children born after 5th April 2015, parents will now be able to choose how they want to share arrangements for care of their child for the first 12 months after birth by ending maternity leave and sharing the remaining leave between them as flexible parental leave.

We are to see a change in the rules on statutory adoption leave and pay with the current 26 week qualifying period being removed bringing adoption pay into line with maternity pay.

From 5th April, the right to take unpaid parental leave is being extended - currently only available for children aged under 5, it is to be extended so that it will be available to parents with children up to the age of 18.

The cost to the state, business and individuals of long term sick leave has been a matter of concern for some time. Nearly a million employees a year are absent from work due to illness for 4 consecutive weeks or more. Employees have felt inadequately supported and employers have been concerned about taking action for fear of facing a claim. The government is introducing a national Fit for Work Service which will offer free advice to employers, employees and GPs. An occupational health assessment will be offered to employees after 4 weeks

sickness absence and return to work plans will be drawn up in conjunction with the employer - the intention being to help the employee back into work more quickly. Participation will be voluntary, and uncertainty still exists surrounding the operation of the service, whether a sufficient number of suitably qualified staff can be appointed and the potential benefits it will ultimately deliver.

Concern remains at the number of employers who are not paying staff the national minimum wage so the penalty for each underpaid worker is to be increased to £20,000 and the names of employers found to be in breach of their obligations will be published.

The controversial subject of zero hours contracts – where an employee is not guaranteed any minimum working hours – will almost certainly be subject to change. Proposals have already been set out to prevent employers restricting zero hours workers from working elsewhere but in time restrictions may go further - this is a subject all the main political parties are likely to address in the months ahead.

If you have any questions arising from this article please contact me on 01626 332266 or by email: [email protected]

the briefingstraightforward and honest legal advice to take the stress out of tough situations

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DARTMOUTH01803 832191

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www.wollenmichelmore.co.ukThis firm is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulatory Authority (No.565599)

Regional Law Firm of the year South West

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Wollenmichelmore

David Scarrott SolicitorPrivate Client Law

The government is introducing a national Fit

for Work Service which will offer free advice to employers,

employees and GPs.

Employment law – the changes ahead

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english riviera magazine february/march 2015

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