Vale Life Winter 2014

P R O U D T O B E I N D E P E N D E N T

RestauRant Reviews

what’s On, Business, shOpping

plus aRt, Music, style

health, hOMes and Much MORe

theRe’s MORe Online

www.valelife.co.uk

penarth pier pavilion, inspirational interiorshair & beauty ideas, good food plus much more

th e va l e O f gl a M O R ga n’s pR e M i e R l i f e s t y l e Maga z i n e

PRICELESS

Vale life

Wrapped up

WINTER 2014

Vale Life Summer 2013_41_Layout 1 02/08/2013 08:33 Page 3Vale Life Summer 2013_41_Layout 1 02/08/2013 08:33 Page 3

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Spacefitting advert


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How many of us have made new year resolutions? How many of us have stuck to them? It’s hard at this time of year when all you want to do is cosy up on the sofa with a nice bowl of hot stodgy soup with bread and lashings of butter. Am I giving too much away here?If you’re being good then Dr. Helen McCarthy can help you stick to your goals as she reveals her failsafe method of weight loss on page 52.

If not, then check out our ideas for where to eat out. If you haven’t yet visited Penarth Pier Pavilion, then you really should as Dr. David Trotman and his team have really put this tourist destination on the Vale map.We chat to him about how he realised his vision on pages 12 to 14. With spring just around the corner, what better time to think about freshening up your home interior? A new kitchen or a new bathroom will make the world of difference or you could inject a bit of colour with a new sofa or a few scatter cushions.

Our regular contributors Spacefittingfurniture, Thomas Gardiner Bathrooms and Interiors and Benjamin’s Interiors can help you out there. We all need a bit of pampering during these long winter months so why not treat yourselves and head off (excuse the pun!) to Blu Hair Design, Penarth or Hairs ‘n’ Graces, Talbot Green or Usto, Porthcawl for a new haircut or skin treatment. Like the ad says – “You’re worth it”. Enjoy what’s left of this winter and we’ll see you all again in the spring.

Jennifer Hobbs-RobertsEditor07766 106 [email protected]/in/jenniferhobbsroberts

W elCOMeEditor

Jennifer [email protected]

Creative DirectorMark Roberts

[email protected]

Vale LifeCardiff House, Cardiff Road, Cardiff CF63 2AW

www.valelife.co.uk

0845 130 6452

The Vale Of GlaMOrGan’s PreMier lifesTyle MaGazine

Passionate about the Vale of GlamorganWe are a small independent publisher. We are not a large publishing

group pretending to be home grown. Vale Life magazine is written, designed and printed in the Vale of Glamorgan for the

people of the Vale of Glamorgan.

Our philosophyWe are committed to quality. This quote by William Foster pretty

much sums up our thinking: “Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent

direction and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.”

Caveat emptorAdvertisers supply their own copy or artwork, and therefore Vale Life cannot accept any responsibility for disputes between advertisers

and their customers. Caveat emptor - let the buyer beware.

Important you read thisWe have made every effort to ensure that all information contained in Vale Life or on www.valelife.co.uk (or our

social media streams) is correct and accurate. However, we accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions and can offer

no compensation should we get it wrong. Please note that the opinions, thoughts, views or ideas expressed in articles contained in Vale Life are strictly those of the authors.

Intellectual property© Copyright Vale Life 2014. All rights reserved. Nothing in this

magazine (including adverts) may be reproduced in any shape or form (in whole or part) without the express written permission of the publishers. We take breach of copyright and theft of intellectual

property extremely seriously and will sue at the drop of a croissant. You have been warned (nicely); ignorance is no excuse.

SubscriptionsTo guarantee your copy, please send a cheque for £20 (four issues)

made payable to Vale Life. Visit www.valelife.co.uk for special subscriber discounts and special offers.

Missed the last issue?We hold a small number of each issue in stock so if you do need

a pristine copy, please telephone us or email [email protected]. Hopefully we’ll have the issue you want (but we cannot guarantee it). Each back issue costs £5 including

postage and packing.

Yes it’s free. Priceless actually!Vale Life is distributed free through a wide variety of outlets across

Vale of Glamorgan and beyond and is given away free of charge on the understanding that we are happy for it to be lent, passed

on, given to friends and generally read until it falls apart. At which point, you can recycle it and we’d be delighted if you did.

Green is goodThe pulp used in the production of the paper Vale Life is printed on is sourced from sustainably managed Scandinavian tree farms

and utilises an elementary chlorine-free bleaching process.

We’re very sociable!

We’re on the web!www.valelife.co.ukLike on Facebook!

www.facebook.com/valelifeFollow on Twitter!

@ValeLife #ValeLife

Vale life

VALE LIFE WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED US OVER RECENT MONTHS. OUR CONTRIBUTORS, OUR FAMILIES, OUR FRIENDS (INCLUDING ALL THE NEW ONES WE HAVE MADE) AND OUR ADVERTISERS - WITHOUT THEM VALE LIFE WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE. WE HOPE YOU LIKE WHAT WE’VE PRODUCED AND WE’LL TRY TO MAKE EACH ISSUE EVEN BETTER THAN THE LAST AND IF YOU HAVE A STORY THAT YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE, PLEASE GET IN TOUCH. VALE LIFE IS REGISTERED AT THE BRITISH LIBRARY AS A MAGAZINE ISSN 1757-1723. FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.VALELIFE.CO.UK

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a rOund The Vale

VALE OF GLAMORGAN

The Vale Resort unveils a fairytale wedding venueAn historic castle in south Wales is reopening as a wedding venue for the 2014 season, following the first phase of a multi-million pound refurbishment to restore it to its former glory.

Hensol Castle has been closed to the public for almost a decade and only used as a stage set for the television series Doctor Who, Sherlock and Torchwood. However, thanks to the investment, it will be open as a wedding venue from April 2014 catering for wedding parties of up to 180 guests, who can hire it exclusively. The revamped venue, which will hold a wedding licence, consists of four ceremony and reception rooms, together with a marquee in the central courtyard. Located in Hensol Park, next door to the Vale Resort, the 400-year old castle has original architecture, turrets, gothic towers and feature staircases. The castles restoration is in keeping with its 17th century heritage in gothic style, and all of the conference suites are named after previous famous owners of the castle.

The former stately home, situated six miles outside of Cardiff city centre and three minutes off junction 34 of the M4, is set within landscaped gardens and has a 15-acre lake and serpentine pond. A wedding package at Hensol Castle includes the following as standard: Luxurious suite for the bride and groom, red carpet on arrival, personalised menus, silver cake stand and knife, preferential room rates for guests, 20% off treatments in the spa (one month prior to your wedding), free anniversary dinner, free three month’s free membership of the Health & Racquets Club (one month prior to your wedding), free round of golf for the groom and three friends (prior to your wedding) and free car parking.

Phase two of the investment will include adding 50 bedrooms. Currently, guests can stay at the adjacent Vale Resort, which comprises a 143 bed luxury four-star hotel, two championship golf courses, Wales’ largest spa, an extensive health and racquets club including a large gymnasium, pool, sauna and steam room.

Wedding menus at Hensol Castle start from £39.95pp.

COWBRIDGE

Gemma Chester donates her hair to the Little Princess Trust‘Gemma Chester is a bright and bubbly nine year old, who was inspired to donate her hair to the Little Princess Trust after watching Surprise, Surprise a few weeks ago, when a 14 yr old girl shaved her head, donating the hair to be used for a wig.

Gemma wanted to shave her head, but we felt she was too young to do this and cope with potential teasing,

so we came to a compromise of donating 12” of hair to the charity.

She wanted to raise some sponsorship money and we chose the Macmillan Cancer Support charity as her grandma had just been referred for such support; two of her grandparents have been diagnosed with cancer this year. In support, and to try to increase our fundraising efforts, I have decided to shave my head and hopefully donate my hair (if it’s not too grey) to be used for wigs. I contacted Fich and Ramous as I wanted Gemma to have a fantastic haircut, since she is being very generous and brave. I met Claire (the salon manager) last week, and we realised we have lots of

factors in common, such as Llangan, where Gemma goes to school and Claire used to teach.

Cowbridge Comp, where we both have children at school, the Velindre Hospital, where Gemma’s dad works as a professor of medical oncology and Claire at the salon helps many of the cancer patients by fitting wigs through the hospital, and Gemma wishing to have her hair used for a wig and Fich and Ramous supply wigs across South Wales - the bond was instant! The date was set for Wednesday 4th December at approx 16:15hrs. Gemma’s initial target was £200, but her target has been raised to £600 and by the Wednesday with the gift aid and the donations raised in salon we had received £1500.’

Written by Caroline Chester (Gemma’s Mum)https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/chestershaircutchallenge

The Chester family choose mydonate as including gift aid the charity receives £12.35 from a £10 donation, with no charges to the charity.

For further information about holding a wedding at Hensol Castle, please contact 01443 665803 or email [email protected]

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CARDIFF

Spacefittingfurniture nominated as finalist in kbb AwardsCongratulations to Spacefittingfurniture of Cardiff for being nominated as a finalist in the Kitchen Showroom of the year category in the kbbreview Awards 2014, the most prestigious awards event in the kitchen and bathroom industry which is celebrating its 20th year this year.

The Design Quarter, 145 Colchester Ave, Cardiff CF32 9XE 029 2045 5778 www.spacefittingfurniture.co.uk

The Old Post Office Cafe239 Holton RoadBarryCF63 4HT 01446 730116Follow on Facebook

BARRY

The Old Post Office gets a new deliveryAfter years of working in the public sector, Lisa Eveleigh, owner of The Old Post Office Cafe in Holton Road decided she’d like to give something back to the community in which she lives and decided to open a cafe.

Since opening May 2012, the cafe has gone from strength to strength.On the day I met Lisa, she was knee deep in felt dolls and happy schoolgirls for as well as serving up freshly made sandwiches, paninis and mouth watering cakes, The Old Post Office offers a number of classes for the young and not so young.

Lisa also offers outside catering for buffets and parties and has a meeting room on the premises for hire for small conferences. Lisa is proud of her 5* Hygiene Award and hopes in time to turn the business into a charitable organisation and attract even more groups. With the help of her four staff (two of which are her daughters), we wish them all the success they deserve as they provide an invaluable link to the community.

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How’s business?Very Good, Even though people are being careful with their money, my clients are realising it’s not just about looking good but giving themselves that precious little bit of time out from their busy schedules.

We have built some good relationships with our clients and word of mouth as had a massive effect, helping to build our business, and we are very grateful to them for spreading the word. It’s a sad but true fact that it only takes three seconds for people to get a good impression of you and if you’re confident in your skin, then this shows on the outside.

What treatments are proving popular?The favourites are the Micro dermabrasion and Murad Facials alongside the wrinkle relaxants, dermal fillers and laser treatments.

These address problems such as frown lines, wrinkles, dull aging skin, plus removal of bothersome skin tags, warts and moles. One treatment I would recommend this time of year is the hair removal. If you’re considering ridding yourself of unsightly or unwanted hair I would start that treatment now as it can take between 4-6 mobths to complete the treatment. So you would be smooth and hair free for summer.

Have you seen a rise in client numbers?Yes, word of mouth from satisfied clients helps enormously as does advertising in quality publications such as Vale Life and its sister publication InBusiness magazine. In fact, it was following a feature in InBusiness that we secured a presence in one of Cardiff ’s leading dental practices, Smiles Dental in Cardiff Bay. Our clinic in the Bay is open every Monday from 10am until 8pm and appointments are

made through Smiles. They are a very professional company and we are very happy to have this opertunity to work alongside them. They even have the same colour green in their branding so it was definitely a match made to happen!

Do you offer the same treatments there?Yes all except the laser treatments due to the manoeuvrability of the machines and HIW regulations.

I guess with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, clients are booking to make sure they look good for the big day?Yes, we are seeing an increase in calls both from clients and from loved ones looking to buy vouchers as a special gift! As we all know, it does cost to look good but to help with the cost, we’re offering a free £25 MDA treatment with any product or gift set bought through Feburary and then ready for Mothers Day we have 25% off Dermal fillers and Anti wrinkle treatments through March. in both the Talbot Green and Cardiff Bay offices. If clients can’t get to us during those months, they can use the offer at a later date as there’s no use by date.

Why do you think more and more clients are coming to Cyfoes?My clients tell me that we’re friendly, honest, approachable, professional and interested in people and building relationships. We’re not about charging exorbitant prices and giving clients treatments that we feel they don’t need. Sometimes little and often is best for a more natural look.

It’s now two years since Cyfoes Healthcare of Talbot Green opened its doors. Vale Life chats to director Andrea Evans to find out how business has been two years on.

C yfOes

Cyfoes HealthcareFirst Floor, 35-37 Talbot Road, Talbot GreenRhondda Cynon Taff CF72 8AD01443 [email protected] on Facebook

Also at Smiles Dental11a Unit, 17a Mermaid Quay, Cardiff029 2048 1212

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With February being the month of love, who better to turn to for advice on how we can love our hair and skin than Hairs ‘n’ Graces, Talbot Green? Managing Director Linda Haggett has created some exclusive packages especially for Vale Life readers.

h airs ‘n’ G raCesh air & BeauTy PaCkaGes

Hair and Beauty Wedding Packages

COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF CHAMPAGNE FOR EVERY BRIDAL TRAETMENT & GUESTS

Package 1❙ Prescriptive

facial❙ Eye brow wax❙ Occasional

Make-up

HAIRS ‘N’ GRACES69 TALBOT ROAD, TALBOT GREENPONTYCLUN CF72 8AE

01443 231 [email protected]

www.hairsngraces.co.uk

Package Price only

£5000

specialists

Package 2❙ Gelish Hands❙ Full Swedish

body/aromatherapmassage

❙ Luxury pedicure

Package Price only

£7900

Package 3❙ Sienna full body

spray tan❙ Gelish hands❙ Minx or gelish

feet❙ Individual

lashes

Package Price only

£7500

Package Price only

£15000

Package 5❙ Luxury blow

dry/hair up❙ Luxury

manicure❙ Luxury pedicure

Package Price only

£6000

Package 6❙ Luxury blow

dry/hair up❙ Express

manicure❙ Express

pedicure

Package Price only

£5000

Packages may be tailor madeto specific requirements at thesalon or at your venue.(Call out/mileage charge applied)

Package 4❙ Bridal hair

up/luxury blowdry rehearsal

❙ Bridal hairup/on the day

❙ Bridal Make-upusing ArtDecoprofessionalrange l Luxurymanicure

❙ Individuallashes

We now offerfull make-up

using themineral

make-up ofArtDeco.

Hairs ‘n’ Graces69 Talbot Road, Talbot GreenPontyclun CF72 8AE01443 231000

[email protected]/hairsngracestalbotgreenTwitter @hairs_n_graces

E XC L u s I V E O F F E R s M O t h E R ’ s DAY O F F E R s

tA I L O R E D t O YO u

A R t D E C O M A k E - u p

All packages are subject to availability. Hairs ‘n’ Graces reserves the right to amend or cancel packages at any time.

Luxury 4 Step Treatment with blow-dry and Express Dermalogica Facial

pAC k AG E p R I C E Just £40

Prescriptive Dermalogica Facial, Eyebrow Wax and Occasional Make-up


Packages may be tailor made to specific requirements, gift vouchers are also available.

We now offer full make-up using the mineralmake-up of ArtDeco.

Cut & Finish and Swedish Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage


Gelish Hands, Full Body Swedish/Aromatherapy Massage and Luxury pedicure


f Or her PaCkaGe 1

f Or hiM PaCkaGe 2

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When business owners Wayne and Paul moved their busy hair salon in John Street, Porthcawl to a much bigger and more exclusive building in the same street in 2007, they had a big refurbishment task ahead of them to get the salon to how they wanted it. Now, five years on, and not willing to rest on their laurels, they have now completed a further refurbishment, taking the salon to another level.

How could they improve on what they had before? Well, they’ve changed the look of the salon completely, giving it a new tiled floor and new ceiling with stylish, individually controlled, spotlights. The backwash is now completely hidden from the main part of the salon, making it more private and comfortable for clients.

The furniture is hand-made andcustom fit. No expense has been spared on the floor tiles. The decor has been well thought out too (they’ve even painted the backwash ceiling a more

subtle shade of white, for a more calming effect). Wayne and Paul believe that the refurbishment costs shouldn’t be reflected in their prices. They may have extremely high standards and expertise but they don’t believe in over-inflating their prices.

We’ve certainly saved the best until last here as Wayne and Paul are delighted to announce the introduction of a beauty/treatment room, with therapist Anna St. Quentin Sinclair at the helm. The beauty room is as beautifully presented as the main salon, in creams and chocolates with just a splash of complimentary mosaic tiles. Anna has a vast amount of experience in beauty therapy, but it’s her passion for her work that outshines her many qualifications.

Anna’s most requested treatments so far are proving to be the celebrity-choice beautiful brows, one of her many facials using Eve Taylor products which are exclusive to south Wales, and her lash-perfect individual eyelash extensions.

Having met Anna myself, I can honestly say that not only is she extremely knowledgeable in her field but she makes you feel completely at ease and looking forward to the next treatment – even if it’s a wax and tint!

M Ore T han u sT u

With an environment that’s light and airy and, most importantly of all, relaxing, it’s easy to see why this perfect Porthcawl salon is attracting new clients week on week.

Ustu94 John StreetPorthcawl01656 773770

“Extremely high standards and expertise but they don’t believe in over-inflating their prices.”

M Ore T han u sT u

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Vale Life_Autumn 2013.indd 7 14/10/2013 19:41

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After years of ‘pier pressure’ and extreme hard work, the beautiful restoration of Penarth Pier’s Pavilion has been completed. Vale Life talks to proud Pavilion Director David Trotman.

Please tell us about your career?I moved to Penarth in the 70’s as a student studying Clinical Microbiology and Biochemistry at Cardiff. I obtained my Doctorate as an immunologist studying lung diseases caused by dusts. To keep my research going, I had to find funding, and I quickly discovered that I had skill for fundraising. This led me into the charity world, starting with Tenovus Cancer Research then Barnardos Cymru.

After living and working in London for ten years, I began to miss South Wales and I took the opportunity to move back for a European Funding Development post with RSPB Cymru. I spent a happy ten years there, ultimately as Head of Marketing, but when I saw the post of Director of Penarth Pier Pavilion advertised, I just had to go for the role. It was difficult to leave the RSPB and many brilliant colleagues there, but I could not miss the opportunity to take on this challenge and bring life to the wonderful project; here was an opportunity to serve my community.

What is your role at the Penarth Pier Pavilion?As Director one has to see that the Pavilion is functioning, staff and volunteers are happy in their work and the general public wish to visit us again and again. I have three aims: to develop Penarth Pier Pavilion as a meeting place for all, especially residents of Penarth, The Vale and Cardiff; to establish the Pavilion as a focus for tourism in South Wales; and finally, to enable the Pavilion to become a place where we can deliver the objectives of our charity, Penarth Arts and Crafts Limited.

As a charity, we aim to bring the experience of art in its many forms to all, particularly focussing on young people with special needs, learning disabilities and from disadvantaged areas. We are developing our work with veterans experiencing combat-related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and will eventually become a place for respite for carers of all ages.

Continued on page 14.

P enarTh P ier

P aViliOn

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“The Pavilion will also bring visitors and tourists to the area, which will be fantastic for the local economy...”

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What attracted you to the project?The love of the Pavilion, to help bring it back to life and to be able with my team to deliver a project that has a unique role in serving our community in many different ways.

What qualities or talents have you brought to the project?I think that is for other people to say! I am bringing lifelong experience within the health and social welfare fields but also the project has enabled me to apply skills directed at increasing access to arts, the environment and lifelong learning, and sourcing the funding to deliver those aims. Finally, I love being around people and serving my community.

What do you think Penarth Pier Pavilion brings to Penarth and the wider Vale?First and foremost, the Pavilion is a resource for the people of Penarth and the Vale of Glamorgan. We are committed to being a meeting place for all, somewhere that people will enjoy coming to, whether for a cup of coffee, a trip to the cinema or to see an exhibition.

The Pavilion will also bring visitors and tourists to the area, which will be fantastic for the local economy, and create many opportunities for growth and development.

What further plans do you have in mind in the coming months/years?We’ll be concentrating our efforts on bringing the Pavilion to life for everyone. We are planning lots of exciting events, including live music, cinema, exhibitions and socials. We’ll also be continuing with our art education and therapy projects. We also have some big plans for summer 2014, so watch out for news!

How many people work there and what are their roles?We have six full-time members of staff at the moment. Abi is our Exhibitions and Education Manager, Nardine is our Finance Manager, Alice works on Fundraising and Sponsorship as well as the cinema. Kevin developed and runs our website as well as offering administrative support in a super-human capacity and Paul Marks is our Volunteer Officer.

We are supported by a team of fantastic volunteers who help us on reception and in our box office and at the cinema. We really couldn’t do this without their help!

How has the project been financed? The project has been funded by a wide range of stakeholders. The building project itself was funded by Heritage Lottery Fund, Vale of Glamorgan Council, The Headley Trust, Cadw, and many others. Projects within the Pavilion have been funded by Children in Need, Arts Council Wales, Film Agency for Wales and the Ernest Cook Charitable Trust.

Everyone who has supported the project, whether joining our membership scheme, putting some coins in the donation box, or enjoying a cup of coffee has contributed to the building and to our charitable work, so we’d like to say a big THANK YOU to them.

What sort of numbers are coming through the door and where are these people coming from geographically?We have been lucky to have had visitors from all over the world, as far afield as the USA and as close to home as across the road! We have been surprised and delighted by the interest and support we’ve had from the local community who have really got behind the project, and put up with a few inconveniences along the way.

We had around 8,500 visitors in December and were thrilled that during the Christmas period, the Pavilion was somewhere that people wanted to show off to relatives and friends who were visiting.

Are you pleased with how it’s going so far?We are a team of perfectionists. We are really pleased with how everything is going so far, but we are always looking for ways to improve, new things to offer, and developing projects that will fulfil our charitable objectives. Onwards and upwards!

Penarth Pier PavilionThe EsplanadePenarth CF64 3AU

02920 712100info@penarthpierpavilion.co.ukwww.penarthpavilion.co.ukFollow on Facebook and TwitterFor up to date what’s on listings please visit the website

PENARTHPAVILION.CO.UK | 029 2071 2100 | [email protected]

REGISTERED OFFICE: PENARTH PIER PAVILION, THE ESPLANADE, PENARTH, CF64 3AU SWYDDFA COFRESTREDIG: PENARTH PIER PAVILION, THE ESPLANADE, PENARTH, CF64 3AU

Please refer to our website for fully up-to-date cinema, exhibition and events listings

CinemaFEBRUARY/MARCH 2014 AT THE PENARTH PIER PAVILION

TICKETS

Sheridan Ward: LightFriday 14th February - Sunday 23rd March

Private View: Friday 14th February | 7pm-9pm

Following a highly successful group exhibition in Cardiff, Sheridan Ward will be showcasing her newest oil paintings all on the theme of Light. This body of work shows both Sheridan’s studio work as well as her En Plein Air paintings which depict and have been created in and on various local beaches, parks and places of natural beauty. All works will be available to purchase and will go on sale from 7pm on Friday 14th February at the private view.

Roath Botanic Garden ArtistsTuesday 25th March - Thursday 10th AprilPrivate View: Friday 28th March | 6.30pm-8.30pm

Jill Schoenmann, Helen Lush, Christine Wilson, Chris Taylor, Louise Young and Sally Williams come together to showcase their individual interpretations of botanical art. The artists come from very different backgrounds, including Garden Design, Botanical Illustration and Fashion Design, resulting in richly diverse collections of work. All works will be available to purchase and will go on sale from 6.30pm on Friday 28th March at the private view.

Exhibitions If you would like to be added to the guest list for any of our forthcoming private view events, please email our

Exhibitions Manager at [email protected].

KIDS’ CLUB: MOON MAN (U)Thursday 27th February | 10amSaturday 1st March | 2pm

THE WOLF OF WALL STREET (18)Tuesday 11th March | 7pmWednesday 12th March | 7pmThursday 13th March | 7pm

INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS (15)Tuesday 18th March | 7.30pmWednesday 19th March | 7.30pmFriday 21st March | 2.30pm

THIS AIN’T CALIFORNIA (15)Thursday 20th February | 6.30pm

AMERICAN HUSTLE (15)Tuesday 11th February | 7.30pmWednesday 12th February | 7.30pm

THE MACHINE (PG)Friday 21st March| 7.30pmSaturday 22nd March | 7.30pmTuesday 25th March | 7.30pmWednesday 26th March | 7.30pm

MR PEABODY & SHERMAN (U)Saturday 22nd March | 10amSaturday 22nd March | 2.30pm

PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR OUR FULL CINEMA PROGRAMME

Adults: £6.50Young People: £4.50Over 60s: £4.50 on selected showingsKids’ Club - All Tickets: £4.50

To book tickets: 02920 713 201 (£1.50 booking fee) www.penarthpavilion.co.uk/cinema Book at the Pavilion

@penarthpavilionPenarth Pier Pavilion www.penarthpavilion.co.uk

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Mother’s Day is the time of year when you can show your mum just how much she really means to you. Instead of the usual last minute dried-up bouquet from the local supermarket, why not treat your mum to what most mums want the most – your time?

a T asTe Of C hina

River View Chinese RestaurantUnit 1, Britannia HousePenny LaneCowbridge CF71 7AD01446 771668www.riverview668.co.ukLike on FacebookFollow on Twitter

This is one day of the year (although it should be more often) that you can treat your mum to a day out shopping and then lunch at a restaurant.

Cowbridge has an abundance of shops where you and your mum can while away a morning. From boutiques, antiques, bags and jewellery; Cowbridge will keep your mum happy while earning you brownie points. Why not finish off the morning with a lovely lunch at River View Chinese restaurant?

The head chef at River View restaurant in Cowbridge, is a creative culinary genius in our eyes. The new team is looking forward to new challenges and to offering you dishes that not only look stunning but are fresh, light and full of subtle flavours. Vale Life features just a few of the dishes on offer at this popular restaurant for the forthcoming season. They may use the freshest of ingredients and cook to order but when a restaurant runs as smoothly as this one does, then you know it’s because the kitchen and front of house are totally in sync. River View constantly like to offer something different and this season is no exception.

Don’t leave Mother’s Day until the last minute. Book a table at River View Chinese Restaurant today and leave the dried up bouquets alone.

“ Why not finish off the morning with a lovely lunch at River View Chinese restaurant?”

“ Chinese at its best!”

•ExclusiveWelshstockistofReallyWild ClothingandHollandCooper–traditional andmoderntweedsforladiesandgentlemen•BeautifulAvocathrowsandknitwear•Tayberrylifestyleclothing•GorgeousCountryCandlesscents•LocalproducefromtheHendrewennolEstate•Seasonalhomewares,decorationsandgifts•Wishlistsheldforalloccasions

Town Hall Square, Cowbridge, CF71 7EE01446 771995

www.beaglesofcowbridge.com

Beautiful, affordable thingsa T asTe Of C hina

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How long have you been visiting Hawkes? I’ve know Russell and have been visiting Hawkes since 1995. There were only two gentlemen’s shops in Cardiff at that time and I liked them both in equal measure but since the demise of Woodies, Hawkes is where I shop now. How often do you shop there? Men buy differently to women don’t they. Women seem to want to shop for clothes, shoes and handbags all of the time. Men are different and I’m no exception. I tend to pop if I’ve got something special coming up, like the Six Nations, and Russell sorts me out. Mind you, I do pop in there when I’m not looking for anything in particular and I come away with things. What have you bought there recently? I’ve bought jeans, shirts, boots and a coat recently. I bought a Holland Esquire jacket which I wore on the weekend and I got lots of positive comments about it. I’ve also got some great comments from wearing my RH Williams boots. Sometimes Russell will try and put me in something really colourful like red trousers and I’ll say “that’s not for me” but then when I’ve tried things on that he’s suggested, they have looked good. So you never know until you try do you.

Men are notorious for not liking shopping. Can the same be said for you?I do enjoy shopping at Hawkes as there’s always something in there that I’ll like. They have different things in there that you’ll find anywhere else. What’s best about it though is the service. Nothing’s too much trouble and Russell seems to know what will suit me and what won’t. If I’ve got an important event coming up and I need a sharp dinner suit, I know I can go in there and come away with something that fits the bill, something different and unique.

If you appreciate the finer things in life and hate it when clothes fall apart or just don’t think you’ve had your monies worth, give Hawkes a try. We have a vast selection of unique menswear that will set you apart from the crowd. We’re not influenced by labels but by quality and fit. Next season we will be joined by Nigel Hall and Circle of Gentlemen, both of which are very popular brands in London. Jeffery West shoes will be doing some different colours using their notorious designs and I’m sure last season’s butterfly shirt will be topped! Talking of shirts, Eton are now the “in” ones to wear, combining style and panache, they are as comfortable with a pair of jeans as well as a suit. Weddings are our main concern for the spring/summer season, with many bespoke suits already on the production line. We have built, using our own designs, plenty of fantastic three piece suits, along with our flourishing morning wear hire businesses, which we tailor to fit, we should be your first port of call whether you’re the guest or groom. We have also discovered a market for the bigger chest, having put a few suits on Adam Jones, and looked after a lot of other rugby players, we now stock suits up to 54R and up to 50L so if your 6ft 10in, we can help. The reason you don’t find many on the shelves these days is there is often a 30% charge from the wholesaler. Whatever your shape or size, Hawkes can help. We look forward to your next visit.Russell Scott-Lawson

Russell Scott-Lawson, owner of Hawkes, is no stranger to dressing sports stars and celebrities. So when ex Welsh international rugby player and pundit Jonathan Davies, needs a wardrobe injection, he pays a visit to Hawkes.

a d ifferenT l eaGue

Hawkes 37-39 Morgan ArcadeCardiff CF10 1AF

Scan the QR code for more

029 2037 3780 www.hawkesessentials.comFind us on Facebook

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Choosing a new kitchen can be daunting, but if you go somewhere like Sigma 3 Kitchens, who’ve built a reputation for excellent customer service, you’ll be looked after and helped through every stage for complete peace of mind.

What will my new kitchen look like?It can be hard to imagine just how your finished kitchen will look when you begin, but if you go to a professional kitchen company like Sigma 3, who have been designing and making kitchens in South Wales for nearly 40 years, it’s easy!

Choosing the right styleIt can be overwhelming picking a new kitchen – there are so many styles, colours and finishes to choose from. Then there are handles, worktops, sink and tap designs and much more – but that’s exactly where a professional kitchen designer can help.

By asking the right questions about your lifestyle and how you use your kitchen - do you like to cook, entertain, socialise, whether you have young children or pets, do you want a low maintenance finish, prefer traditional or modern etc.

We can advise you on the best choices to meet those needs. Plus tell you about latest design trends and new products, what items are worth spending or saving on and of course, making sure everything fits within your budget.

It can take a while to get there, but once you know what you want, how can you begin to imagine what it’ll really look like?

Professional DesignOur Kitchen Designers spend all day working with door samples and coming up with creative designs, but understand that not everyone finds looking at a single door that inspirational! That’s why they’ll produce a very realistic computer generated image for you – they’ll measure your kitchen to the exact specifications so you can see how

everything fits and get a real sense of the space you have. It’s a great way of seeing whether you really like the layout and the colours. If you want to change or move anything, a new image will be created so you can see if it works or not.

The Finished ArticleWith a professional design, the plans are worked out in such detail that they can be followed easily to ensure your kitchen is fitted perfectly. So, from the image you liked and saw in our showroom, you’ll have no surprises when your new kitchen is finished. It’ll look the same, if not better!

At Sigma 3, our design and planning service is completely FREE. Come in and see us and we’ll guide you through each step and help you visualise your new dream kitchen.

Buying a new kitchen for most people is a big investment. With a plethora of kitchen companies available, how do you know which company is right for you?

s iGnifiCanTlyd ifferenT

Showrooms in Cardiff, Newport, Swansea & Abergavenny.

SALE NOW ON

SURPRISINGLY AFFORDABLE KITCHENS AND BEDROOMS FOR 40 YEARS

HAPPY NEW KITCHEN

Cardiff Newport Swansea Abergavennysigma3.co.uk

Showrooms in Cardiff, Newport, Swansea & Abergavenny.

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How did you hear about Bartholomew Hawkins?We heard about Bartholomew Hawkins through our financial advisor David Hulse who has been advising us for a while now.

Did you shop around?We did shop around but decided to go with someone we could trust and Bartholomew Hawkins can provide products from the whole market which means you get the best. This is vital when you are protecting your children’s future which is our main concern.

What services did they offer you?They have helped us with our wills, life cover, savings and investment products.

Were you happy with the process and the representative David Hulse? We couldn’t be happier with our advisor David Hulse. He is very friendly and approachable and always answers all of our questions/concerns - I usually have lots of these! He is extremely patient and explains everything thoroughly. He always makes sure that we understand everything and shows us charts/graphs/projections and relevant figures etc to explain things clearly.

Would you recommend the company to others?We wouldn’t hesitate in recommending David and the team at Bartholomew Hawkins. We are happy that our finances and children’s future are in safe hands.

It can be quite scary having to think about a will, life cover and investments but it really is a necessary evil. Finding a company that you can trust can be even more scary so a personal recommendation can be a life saver. We chat to a Barry couple with two young children about why they are happy to recommend Bartholomew Hawkins.

“We did shop around but decided to go with someone we could trust and Bartholomew Hawkins can provide products from the whole market which means you get the best. This is vital when you are protecting your children’s future which is our main concern.”

T ried & T esTed

Call your local Financial PlannerDavid Hulse today on 029 2050 8000or visit www.bhifa.co.uk

Bartholomew HawkinsChartered Financial PlannersHead Office: 5 Oaktree Court, Cardiff Gate Business Park, Cardiff CF23 8RS

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin

Bartholomew Hawkins Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales No. 5345179

Check out our virtual tour

www.benjaminsinteriors.com029 2034 3055

Unit 2 Freemans Park, Penarth Road, Cardiff CF11 8EQ

l Sofas & Soft Furnishingsl Dining & Bedroom Furniturel Mirrorsl Garden Furniturel Lightingl Rugsl Giftwarel Bespoke Furniture

benjamin’sinteriors

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Sisters Danielle, Hannah and Kelly Ball always wanted the shop to be located on Barry’s High Street. When they were given the chance to move to a new premises from Holton Road, they seized the opportunity to be in, what they considered to be in, a prime location.

“It was a no brainer!” said Hannah. “High street is full of beautiful localindependent shops and we feel that Belle Moi will be at home here among the thriving independents that make up the majority of the shops on the HighStreet.”

Danielle added “We were welcomed by all the businesses and made to feel part of the tight knit High Street community.”

Kelly said “Our loyal customers have been very supportive with the move. Wehave had great feedback from old customers and new. Our new location allows a cosy boutique shopping experience with luxury for less.”

Belle Moi’s new spring/summer collection will be available from 1st March, with occasion-wear for weddings and summer events.

The girls look forward to seeing you at our new premises.

Belle Moi dress agency has recently moved to 30 High Street, Barry. They sell pre-loved affordable designer womens-wear and accessories. Belle Moistocks sizes 6-20 with designer labels such as Karen Millen, Coast, Jacques Vert and Dune. Belle Moi allows you to purchase quality luxury labels for afraction of the cost.

B elle Of T he B all

Belle Moi30 High StreetBarryVale of GlamorganCF62 7EB01446 732184

wwww.bellemoi.wix.com/dressagencywww.facebook.com/BelleMoiBoutique

“Our new location allows a cosy boutique shopping experience with luxury for less.”

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What were your first impressions of the Spa Ruth? I arrived at St David’s Spa for my algae wrap and was greeted by friendlystaff who directed me to the spa where my treatment would take place. Thesurroundings were comfortable and the atmosphere relaxed, yet professional.

Who was your therapist?My therapist Amanda greeted me with a warm smile which put me at easestraight away. She was very knowledgable and professional and told me thatshe had been a beauty therapist for thirteen years. She was full of passionfor her trade and this gave me great confidence in her abilities. She talkedme through the treatment and made sure that I was fully aware of what wasgoing to happen and what to expect.

How was the treatment?I received an all over invigorating body brushing (which got my bloodflowing) and an all over body scrub, followed by a peppermint algae wrap,which was applied all over my body (delicious) and yes this meant beingwrapped up in plastic for twenty minutes! The products used were divine. They were from the Espa range and smelt and felt gorgeous. There was soft acoustic music playing in the background which added to the relaxing atmosphere and helped me float away while Amanda finished my treatment with a fabulous foot massage.

Just as I was drifting off (seriously nearly snoring) I was asked to shower,while Amanda prepared a glass of water.

How did you feel after the treatment?Very relaxed, yet invigorated and was told to drink lots of water as this would help to continue detoxing the body.

Were you able to enjoy the other facilities while you were there?As this is a very busy time at the moment getting the new spring displays and stock ready, I didn’t have any free time to take advantage of the pool and gym. The ladies in the pool looked as if they were enjoying their downtime and I felt a little envious that I didn’t have the time to dive in. However, I will maketime on my next visit as it looked inviting.

Would you go again?I will certainly take advantage of the spa again very soon as I was told they have a few promotions coming up that can’t be missed!

Would you recommend St David’s Spa to others?Most definitely! Not only did I thoroughly enjoy my treatment but thelocation is so convenient, the service so professional and at reasonable prices.

The promise of spring is just around the corner, so now is a good time to get your skin spring ready. Ruth Benjamin Green took time out of her busy day running Benjamin’s Interiors on Penarth Road, Cardiff to enjoy the Algae Body Wrap and Massage at St. David’s Spa, Cardiff Bay.

The St. Davids Hotel and SpaHavannah Street, Cardiff, CF10 5SD 0844 915 [email protected]

Benjamin’s interiorsUnit 2 Freemans ParkPenarth Road, Cardiff, CF11 8EQ02920 343055www.benjaminsinteriors.comFollow on Facebook and Twitter

T ried & T esTed

“ The surroundings were comfortable and the atmosphere relaxed, yet professional.”

For further details contact our wedding co-ordinator on 029 2045 4045 or to request a brochure visit www.thestdavidshotel.co.uk

How do you fancy an Evening by the Bay for your special day...Package includes:Function room hire • Red carpet arrival • Personalised wedding stationary • Cake stand and knife • Glass of sparkling wine or bottled beer on arrival • Hot finger buffet or cheese and terrine table • Resident DJ • Dance floor • Chair covers and bows to compliment your colour scheme • Uplighters • Junior suite for the bride and groom on the night of the wedding

£38.00Prices start from...

per person

T ried & T esTed

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Since opening its doors in 1986 they have offered more top brands than you can shake a stick at. Couple this with a team that provides knowledgeable, honest advice, and you end up with a great choice of clothing that suits your individual needs.

One of the most popular brands to grace Pavilion Clothing is Barbour, the iconic clothing brand established in 1894. Today the 5th generation family-owned business remains in the North East, with Barbour’s headquarters located in Simonside, South Shields. Although it sources products from around the globe, Barbour’s classic wax jackets are still manufactured by hand in the factory in Simonside and each year over 100,000 jackets are produced.

Nevertheless, in whichever area the company now operates, it remains true to its core values as a family business which espouses the unique values of the British Countryside and brings the qualities of ‘wit, grit and glamour’ to its beautifully functional clothing.

As winter prepares to bid farewell for another year, Barbour looks forward to stepping out in the beautiful British springtime. The spring/summer collections play host to standout pieces and summer-ready staples alike, influenced by all corners of Barbour’s archive and giving time-honoured themes a fresh lease of life for the new season.

The menswear collections offer a choice of looks, from rugged and functional to sharp and sophisticated. Bringing wax, quilt and cotton jackets together with summery shirts, lightweight knits and casual tees, the range is designed to sit perfectly together and be layered up or down to suit the (ever unpredictable) British weather.

For women, the lifestyle collection is made up of feminine and elegant capsules which are brimming with lightweight jackets, sumptuous knits and co-ordinating mid-layers that promise to make spring/summer a truly stylish affair.

Whether your wardrobe needs an injection of Barbour or one of Pavilion Clothing’s many other brands, may we suggest you call in and enjoy your shopping experience.

There are people that love to go clothes shopping and there are those that don’t, either way, Cardiff ’s shoppers are in luck: Pavilion Clothing offers that great personal shopping experience that only an independent store can give. It’s no wonder that Pavilion Clothing remains one of the market leaders.

W iT, G riT & G laMOur

Pavilion Clothing3 Wharton Street, Cardiff CF10 1AG029 2023 5333www.pavilionclothing.com

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

“ One of the most popular brands to grace Pavilion Clothing is Barbour, the iconic clothing brand.”

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W iT, G riT & G laMOur

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fit for purposeIt can be a costly and potentially messy business having a log fire installed and, with so much choice available, it can be quite difficult knowing which one would suit your home and lifestyle.


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The Stove Room21-22 Cardiff RoadBarry CF63 2QY01446 720408info@chiversrestoration.comwww.chiversrestoration.comFollow on Twitter @StoveRoom

John Bruno Total Training87 Glebe Street, Penarth Cardiff CF64 1EFwww.johnbrunototaltraining.comFollow on Twitter

What difference has it made to the way in which you live?The fire is situated in a very large room with vaulted ceilings and having the fire installed has made this a far cosier room.

Would you recommend The Stove Room to others?Absolutely. We have already recommended numerous clients with four already having them installed. We’re looking forward to having them back to install a second fire.

With fifteen years experience, Carlton Chivers of The Stove Room in Barry can certainly help. There’s not much Carlton hasn’t seen over the years when it comes to log fires so when Penarth personal trainers John and Tanya Bruno were looking for their ideal log burner, guess who they called? Vale Life chats to John at his lovely Penarth home.

How did you hear about The Stove Room?We had driven past their showroom numerous times on Cardiff Road in Barry and noticed their window display.

Why did you choose The Stove Room for your fire?We arranged an appointment for Carlton to look at the feasibility of having a log burner in our loft apartment and for him to give us a quote. On meeting Carlton, I realised he knew exactly what he was talking about; questions asked were answered with expertise and knowledge.

Did you get quotes from any other fire company?When we first purchased our loft apartment, we initially had a quote from a different company but at the time we decided to put this on hold. The quote from Carlton was much more competitive with a better quality stove.

What did you think of the service The Stove Room provided?They advised our builder on the regulations and materials needed to ensure that the fire would be safe. With each step of the way from the initial survey to advice on the stove and the installation of the flue and fire, they were excellent. Highly recommended.

Did they help you in choosing which fire you wanted?Carlton was quite enthused about the TermaTech TT20RS fitted with almost 80kilos of rounded soapstone on the sides and top plate. Apart from looking ultra modern, the heat is fantastic and when the fire dies down you still get a tremendous heat from the soapstone for hours. After doing lots of research online, there is so much choice and easy to get confused and make a costly wrong decision. Carlton asked the right questions to make sure that we had the best stove fitted for our lifestyle and budget.

“ Carlton asked the right questions to make sure that we had the best stove fitted.”

“ Questions asked were answered with expertise and knowledge.”


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You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the fine architecture and beautiful interiors of our Vale churches. This issue we received an especially warm welcome from Canon Derek G Belcher of Holy Cross, Cowbridge.

s P iriTualisedWhen was the church built?Cowbridge received its first Royal charter as a borough in 1254 and so it is reasonable to assume that the church, officially a chapel under the control of the church at Llanblethian, was built about that time. Much of the nave, tower and chancel dates back to the late thirteenth century.

Does the church have any special features that set it apart?The size and shape of the tower suggest that it was to serve as a watchtower or stronghold in case of attack. The church was enlarged in the fifteenth century. The South Llanquian aisle was built in 1473, reputedly as a gift of Lady Anne Neville, the wife of Richard, Duke of Gloucester and Lord of Glamorgan (later to be Richard III). The construction of the aisle involved the removal of the massive south wall of the church, and replacing it with the light pillars and arcading that are here today. Also in the fifteenth century, a chantry chapel was built on the north side of the chancel, for a chantry priest to say daily prayers and mass for the soul of the founder, and to teach; the priest lived on the premises. The chantry was terminated in 1548, and the chapel is now used as a meeting room (Taynton Room) and Parish Office.

In 1484, Richard III as Lord of Glamorgan and Morgan granted a chaplaincy to Holy Cross Church. The document, requiring Bishop John Marshall of Llandaff to provide a chaplain ‘for the purpose of celebrating divine worship and the holy sacrament in the church or chapel of Holy Cross’ with the king’s seal in red wax, is preserved in the Glamorgan Record Office. This charter put the previously more haphazard provision of ministers on an official and more regular basis. We know that soon after this an altar in the church was used as a place of solemn and binding agreement - there is a record that in 1516, William Bassett of Treguff conveyed to David Seys of Cowbridge and William ap John of St Hilary, property in Eglwys Brewis - the money to be repaid on the feast of St Andrew in 1526 ‘in the parish church of Cowbridge on the altar of St Nicholas’, between sunrise and sunset. This altar may have been at the east end of the Llanquian aisle. The Reformation saw the removal of the rood loft and other aspects of medieval worship.

Major alterations to the appearance of the church also came in the nineteenth century, with the construction of the present porch, much Victorian restoration, and the removal of the gallery at the west end of the church. In 1925 and 1926 the nave and Llanquian aisle were re-roofed, and the arcade pillars between the nave and the aisle were reconstructed - which is why most of the delicate fifteenth century columns have concrete bases!

How do you see its role in the Cowbridge community?Holy Cross is the Civic church of the community and hosts all Civic acts of worship such as Remembrance Sunday and the inauguration of the new mayor. It is essentially a community church that seeks to serve all in the local community of faith or no faith. It is always open and provides a safe and quiet place for anyone to come and reflect.

Do you visit churches elsewhere in the Vale? Yes, apart from those that comprise our benefice, there are many fine examples such as Llantwit Major.

Which do you admire?I particularly admire St Illtyds, Llantwit Major and its recent heritage provision through the building of the Galilee chapel. There are many others and the church tourist network highlights them. They are gems of local history and church interaction, with their local communities as places of prayer, welcome and help.

How can people help the church?At the moment our vision is to extend the facilities of Holy Cross church so that it better meets the needs of community events. We need better toilet and refreshment facilities for community groups that use the church.We also need volunteers to better extend our care for the disadvantaged in our community.

“ Our vision is to extend the facilities of Holy Cross church.”

Holy Cross Parish ChurchContact Mr. David Lloyd Jones (Administrator) or Canon Derek Belcher (Parish Priest).

Parish Office, Holy Cross Parish Church Church Street, Cowbridge CF71 7BB 01446 [email protected]

Canon Derek can also be contacted on [email protected] and 07796 170671

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“ It’s always open and provides a safe and quiet place for anyone to come and reflect.”

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This sweet little Grade II listed arcade reminds me of its slightly grander cousins; Royal, Morgan and Castle arcade in the centre of Cardiff. It’s been tastefully refurbished over several years by the landlord and is inhabited by a fine selection of small independent shops and businesses.

I love the stylish glass doors at both ends, the flagstone floor and the tasteful paintwork - a cool, calming homage to Farrow & Ball - a much welcome rest for the eyes after the plastic attack we receive on most high streets. There’s a great selection of businesses inside; a traditional sweetshop, a bespoke jeweller, great little gift shops and much more. It has a lovely atmosphere and can even accommodate you for a coffee, lunch or afternoon tea (and, thankfully, not a chain logo in sight).

Honestly, Windsor Arcade is a little bit special - it’s a reminder of the best of the past, when businesses thrived in small enclaves and shopping was as much about socialising as filling a basket. If you’ve not been, it’s well worth a visit. We think you’ll love it as much as we do.

O p t I C I A N

Penarth Eye CentreAn independant opticians who’ve been providing professional, friendly eye care services to families in Penarth and the surrounding area for over 11 years. For eye tests, spectacles, contact lenses and sunglasses, Penarth Eye Centre can help.

7 Windsor Road, Penarth CF64 1JB029 2071 2053www.penartheyecentre.co.uk

COFFEE LOuNGE & REstAuRANt

Celtic LoungeIf you are looking for lunch, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the Celtic Lounge menu. Breakfasts are a personal favourite and they rustle up one of the best lattes in Penarth. Staff are always friendly and make you feel welcome. We like the decor and love the food and excellent service.

7 Windsor Arcade, Penarth CF64 1JB029 2070 8157

a G r and a rCade

Penarthians are very proud of the town’s Victorian and Edwardian heritage and there are many fine examples of listed buildings that catch the eye - one of our favourites is Windsor Arcade.

Windsor ArcadeWindsor Road, Penarth, Vale Of GlamorganFollow on Facebookwww.facebook.com/windsorarcade

tA k E AWAY & s A N D W I C h B A R

Butter Me UpRated five out of five by Food Standards, Butter Me Up produces a great range of fresh sandwiches with home-made fillings made to order. Traditional Cornish pasties, home-made scones and cakes, a superb range of fresh breads and rolls, plus a self service salad bar.

11 Windsor Road, Penarth CF64 1JB029 2071 1176

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G I F t s

The Polka Dot DoorUnique gifts, home accessories, toys, jewellery, bags and much more. Many UK products available. Free gift wrap service. Brands available include Bill Skinner, Blaze, Inch Blue, Ohh Deer and Yoshi Satchels plus much more. 4a Windsor Arcade, Penarth CF64 1JA029 2070 3440 Follow on Twitterwww.The PolkaDotDoor.co.uk

YA N k E E C A N D L E s & G I F t s

Windsors GiftsYankee Candle specialist, gifts and home accessories with a difference – all served with a smile and personal attention to detail. 9 Windsor Road, Penarth CF64 1B029 2070 2460Like on Facebook windsorsgiftspenarthFollow on twitter @windsorspenarthwww.windsorspenarth.co.uk

M O R E t h A N j u s t A B O O k s h O p

Windsor Book Shop A local independent bookshop selling over 6,000 titles plus cards, stationery, jigsaws, classical CDs and printed music, the sale and redemption of National Book Tokens - regularly hosts bookshop events and signings, next day ordering available. 9a Windsor Road, Penarth CF64 1JB029 2070 6455 Follow on Facebookwww.windsorbookshop.co.uk

ENGRAVING, kEYs, shOE REpAIRs

FrangoulisEstablished for fourteen years, this popular business offers high quality shoe repairs, key cutting, engraving, leather goods, trophies and dancewear paraphernalia.

2 Windsor Arcade, Penarth CF64 1JA029 2070 0233 / 07811 444820Follow on Facebookwww.frangoulispenarth.co.uk

M AG I C A L s W E E t s h O p

Umpa Lumpa Sweet ShopTop quality sweetshop like the one your grandmother visited as a child. Serving everything from liquorice, Pick ‘n’ Mix, traditional sweets, bubble gum and lollipops, quality chocolates and sugar-free and gluten-free products. All served with a smile from Penarth town’s own Willy Wonka, Phil.

10 Windsor Arcade 07815 475614

j E W E L L E R Y

Northern Star Bespoke Jewellery LtdUsing state-of-the-art technology, together with traditional skills, they can design and create a bespoke piece of jewellery that suits both your budget and your style.

8 Windsor Arcade, Penarth CF64 1JA029 2070 9707Follow on Twitter and Facebookwww.northernstarjewellery.co.uk

B E A D s & j E W E L L E RY

Anastasia BeadsCustom-made jewellery and fascinators, repairs, alterations, beads and findings, jewellery making classes and parties, bridal jewellery and hair accessories, Pilgrim, Angel Bliss and Wow jewellery stockists.

5 Windsor Arcade, Penarth CF64 1JA029 2070 8493 / 01446 700071F anastasiabeadsuk T @Anastasia_beadswww.anastasiabeads.co.uk

I N D E p E N D E N t G R E E N G R O C E R

Windsor Fruit Stores All you could want from your local fruit and veg supplier including free delivery service; a fresh, daily supply of fruit and vegetables; pure Welsh honey; extensive range of herbs and spices, fruit hampers freshly made to order.

11 Windsor Arcade, Penarth CF64 1JA 029 2070 [email protected]

R E s tA u R A N t & C A F E

Windsor Tea RoomsA welcoming restaurant at the top of Windsor Arcade offering good quality food, home-made lunches and morning coffee and afternoon tea. They have a great daily specials board and free WiFi all in comfortable Victorian surroundings.

1 Windsor Arcade, Penarth CF64 1JA 029 2071 1176

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Just as you feel better when you are clean and healthy, your pet does too. Why should we take our dogs to be groomed? We ask this and other questions of professional dog groomers Jo and Kath from Posh Pawz in Rhoose.

P Osh PaWz

I have bought a new puppy, at what age should I bring it in for its first groom?We suggest you bring your puppy to us for their first groom as soon as possible, usually between 3-6 months, where we are happy to give advice on the upkeep of their coats and brushing techniques to be used at home in between groomings. The sooner they become familiar with the salon surroundings and the process of being groomed the better, particularly for those breeds who will require regular grooming every 6-8 weeks as it will be a large part of their lives.

Should I do anything before I bring my dog in to be groomed?On arrival, new clients are asked to complete a registration form which will give the opportunity to inform us of any special needs, ailments, problems or ongoing veterinary treatments. Your dog should arrive with a collar and lead and, ideally dry! We also suggest clients take a look at our Facebook page where we have 100’s of photos of our work.

My dog is old, can I still have it groomed?As we age, we still like to be clean and tidy. This is no different for your dog. As long as you tell us about any achy joints, ear or eye problems or skin irritations, we’ll make sure its session is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

My dog can be a bit aggressive, can he still be groomed?We have experienced aggression from a few of our doggie clients as, like us, they get nervous and can’t control their emotions. At Posh Pawz we will always try to work with your dog to gain their trust and help them to control their anxiety. This may take more than one grooming session and we only ever use muzzles as a last resort.

How often will my dog need grooming?This will depend entirely on your breed of dog and we can discuss this when you visit.

What does grooming involve?A full grooming treatment will include nail trim, ear pluck and clean, and gland expressing as required. Your dog will then have a warm bath and a blow dry using professional standard driers, we do not use cabinet driers. They will then be clipped to your requirements and finished with a spray of one of our fabulous colognes and a ‘Posh Pawz’ bandana.

How long will it take?Depending on the breed of and condition of the dog, usually between one and three hours. We ask owners to leave their contact details and we ring them when their dog is ready.

Do I stay or do I go?It is less stressful for your dog and we find they settle much quicker into their groom once their owner has left, and in some cases they are reluctant to leave us when ‘home-time’ comes!

How much does it cost?Prices start at £15 for a bath only and £25 for a full groom depending on breed.

Posh Pawz Salon and Spa11 Fontygary RoadRhooseCF62 3DR

01446 [email protected]

Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter

“ At Posh Pawz we will always try to work with your dog to gain their trust.”

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W in! W in! W in!

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We all lead such busy and stressful lives that sometimes we need to stop, regenerate and refresh.

The Secret Garden of Beauty in Barry is offering one lucky reader a bumper pampering package to include Lava Shell Massage, 55 minutes at £35, Results Driven Facial with Skin Scanner 90 minutes at £48, Fragrant Flower Escape Massage, 70 minutes at £38 and a Warm Coco Butter Massage, 55 minutes at £35.

Having just undergone a major refurbishment, The Secret Garden of Beauty, Barry can now offer treatments over two floors as they’ve added additional treatment rooms, due to demand.

To be in with a chance of winning, you’ll need to answer the question the box below and either post your entry to: Vale Life, Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Vale of Glamorgan CF63 2AW Or email your answer and contact details to [email protected]

W IN! W IN! W IN!£100 worth of vouchers at Hairs ‘n’ Graces

Win two tickets to Penarth Pier Pavilion’s gothic masque ball – worth £70

A bumper pampering package from The Secret Garden of Beauty, Barry worth £156

Autumn is here which means that both our skin and our hair needs that little bit of extra attention.

One of the Vale’s leading hair and beauty salons in Talbot Green is offering one lucky reader a chance of winning £100 worth of vouchers to spend at the salon as they wish. You may choose to treat yourself to the perfect hairstyle for the office party or family get together leading up to Christmas or a hair, face or body treatment which will help you look and feel a million dollars. Please visit www.hairsngraces.co.uk to see full range of treatments available.

To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the following question:

Where is Hairs ‘n’ Graces situated??

Answer

Name Address

Postcode Phone Email

When was Penarth Pier Pavilion built?

Answer

Name Address


In which town will you find The Secret Garden of Beauty?

Answer

Name Address


Q Q

If you do not wish to receive details of specialoffers from Good Life Publishing please, tick here.



On Saturday 26th October 2013, Penarth Pier Pavilion will hold its first Masque Ball. With a

Gothic Victoriana theme, the newly-opened Pavilion

will be transformed into a ghostly ballroom full of faded glamour. Enjoy canapés and drinks on arrival in your best dress from hell, have your picture taken in our bespoke photo-booth before dancing the night away to our live band. Gates will open at 8pm.

Tickets are £35.00 including canapés and a cocktail on arrival. Tickets are available from www.penarthpavilion.co.uk or by telephone on 02920 712100.

To win two tickets to Penarth Pier Pavilion’s Gothic Masque Ball, tell us when Penarth Pier Pavilion was built.

Q

Penarth Pier Pavilion was built in 1929 and has recently undergone a £4.2million restoration to ginclude a gallery, cinema, café, shop and bar.

£100 worth of vouchers at Beagles Country Store, Cowbridge

£100 worth of vouchers at Hairs ‘n’ Graces,Talbot Green

Win One of Melinda Mulcahy’s best selling Sweet Petite bracelets

In which town is Beagles Country store situated?

Answer

Name Address


In which town is Hairs ‘n’ Graces located?

Answer

Name Address


In which town is Melinda Mulcahy’s studio situated?

Answer

Name Address


QQQ




Here is your chance to win a voucher worth £100 to spend at one of the latest additions to Cowbridge’s high street, Beagles Country Store.

You could choose to spend your voucher on anything in the store, from Avoca throws and scarves to candles, sweatshirts, gilets or wonderful tweed jackets. As the voucher cannot be exchanged for cash, you can be sure that there’s plenty to choose from in store and Claire Donovan (store owner) and her team will be on hand to help you.


With spring on the way, now is the time to get our skin and hair in tip top condition.

One of the Vale’s leading hair and beauty salons in Talbot Green is offering one lucky reader a chance of winning £100 worth of vouchers to spend at the salon as they wish. You may choose to treat yourself to a new hairstyle or face or body treatment which will help you look and feel a million dollars. Please visit www.hairsngraces.co.uk to see full range of treatments available.


For your chance of winning one of Melinda’s gorgeous Sweet Petite bracelets, all you need to do is sign up to Melinda’s newsletter via www.melindamulcahy.comand answer the question below.

Offer closes 31 May 2014. Please see Melinda’s fabulous feature on page 53. Melinda makes precious jewellery from her new studio shop located behind Gregg’s the Bakers on the High Street, Cowbridge.


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We all lead such busy and stressful lives that sometimes we need to stop, regenerate and refresh.

The Secret Garden of Beauty in Barry is offering one lucky reader a bumper pampering package to include Lava Shell Massage, 55 minutes at £35, Results Driven Facial with Skin Scanner 90 minutes at £48, Fragrant Flower Escape Massage, 70 minutes at £38 and a Warm Coco Butter Massage, 55 minutes at £35.

Having just undergone a major refurbishment, The Secret Garden of Beauty, Barry can now offer treatments over two floors as they’ve added additional treatment rooms, due to demand.

To be in with a chance of winning, you’ll need to answer the question the box below and either post your entry to: Vale Life, Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Vale of Glamorgan CF63 2AW Or email your answer and contact details to [email protected]

W IN! W IN! W IN!£100 worth of vouchers at Hairs ‘n’ Graces

Win two tickets to Penarth Pier Pavilion’s gothic masque ball – worth £70

A bumper pampering package from The Secret Garden of Beauty, Barry worth £156

Autumn is here which means that both our skin and our hair needs that little bit of extra attention.

One of the Vale’s leading hair and beauty salons in Talbot Green is offering one lucky reader a chance of winning £100 worth of vouchers to spend at the salon as they wish. You may choose to treat yourself to the perfect hairstyle for the office party or family get together leading up to Christmas or a hair, face or body treatment which will help you look and feel a million dollars. Please visit www.hairsngraces.co.uk to see full range of treatments available.


Where is Hairs ‘n’ Graces situated??

Answer

Name Address


When was Penarth Pier Pavilion built?

Answer

Name Address


In which town will you find The Secret Garden of Beauty?

Answer

Name Address


Q Q




On Saturday 26th October 2013, Penarth Pier Pavilion will hold its first Masque Ball. With a

Gothic Victoriana theme, the newly-opened Pavilion

will be transformed into a ghostly ballroom full of faded glamour. Enjoy canapés and drinks on arrival in your best dress from hell, have your picture taken in our bespoke photo-booth before dancing the night away to our live band. Gates will open at 8pm.

Tickets are £35.00 including canapés and a cocktail on arrival. Tickets are available from www.penarthpavilion.co.uk or by telephone on 02920 712100.

To win two tickets to Penarth Pier Pavilion’s Gothic Masque Ball, tell us when Penarth Pier Pavilion was built.

Q

Penarth Pier Pavilion was built in 1929 and has recently undergone a £4.2million restoration to ginclude a gallery, cinema, café, shop and bar.

Entering is easy. Just answer the questions below and either email your entry to [email protected] or post to our address at the front of the magazine.

Spiro Borg of Spiros Fine Dining Caterers and Derek Smith, General Manager of Cottrell Park Golf Resort

39

Opened in 1997, the 400-acre, two championship golf course resort near Cardiff, says it is reaping the rewards of a permanent 500 sq metre marquee and bar development which accommodates weddings and functions of up to 400 guests.

Family owned and operated - by David and Jonathan Johns-Powell, whose grandfather purchased the historic estate in 1942 - the resort has appointed Spiros as in-house caterers, to spearhead a new era of cuisine for members and visitors alike.

Derek Smith, General Manager of Cottrell Park Golf Resort said: “In recent years we have benefited both from having the biggest golf club memberships in South Wales and the largely recession-proof wedding market, through our marquee investment.”

As part of its growth strategy, the resort intends to develop luxury guest accommodation in the near future, to attract tourists and provide a warm and friendly 365 day a year visitor experience at Cottrell Park.

Derek Smith added: “Outsourcing our food service to Spiros, enables us to provide members and walk-in visitors with fine cuisine in all areas, from clubhouse to bar and of course marquee functions, seven days a week. Our ultimate vision is to develop Cottrell Park into a high quality golfing, leisure and hotel facility that maintains our signature customer friendly focus and being open to all.”

Cottrell Park boasts a total of 36-holes, driving range, two golfing simulators, fishing lake, snooker room and Segway adventure trails. The resort’s clubhouse, overlooking gardens and the golf course, has also been progressively extended over recent years.

Cardiff-based Spiros Caterers, currently celebrating 30 in business, has just been awarded the title Best Outside Wedding Company in Wales 2013 in The Welsh National Wedding Awards.

Spiro Borg, Managing Director of the family-owned business, which is also the newly resident hospitality and match-day catering provider at Cardiff Arms Park, said “This is another exciting development for us in this our 30th anniversary year. We are excited to be working with Cottrell Park which has many natural advantages and potential for growth; its beautifully landscaped parkland makes it the perfect setting for both golf and a superb rural setting for weddings, conveniently close to Cardiff. We look forward to being a key role at Cottrell Park’s as it further develops and expands as a leading regional leisure attraction in coming years.”

Medieval in origin, the landscaped Cottrell Park is also noted for its connection with two of the major events in world history; it’s Button Gwinnett course is named after the Button family, who resided at Cottrell Park during the 17th Century. Button Gwinnett was one of the fifty-six men who signed the American Declaration of Independence in 1776.

It was later the family seat of Admiral Sir Charles Tyler, who triumphantly commanded one of Admiral Nelson’s flag ships, the HMS Torrant, at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

Spiros - The Fine Dining CaterersSt Peters Hall, St Peters StreetCardiff CF23 3BA029 2049 4425 [email protected] Facebook and Twitterwww.spiros.co.uk

Cottrell Park Golf ResortSt Nicholas, Cardiff CF5 6SJ01446 781781www.cottrellpark.com

The Cottrell Park Golf Resort in the Vale of Glamorgan is benefiting from investment in expanded facilities and a new cuisine offering through a partnership with the award-winning Spiros Fine Dining Caterers.

C uisine & G Olfi n P erfeCT h arMOny

“We are excited to be working with Cottrell Park which has many natural advantages...”

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If you’re more concerned about where you food comes from and how it was grown, then visiting a local market should be high on your priorities. The Vale of Glamorgan Farmers market is made up of farmers, growers and producers who travel from from within south and west Wales to sell their produce in person.

All products sold have been grown, reared, caught, brewed, pickled, baked, smoked or processed by the stall holder.

Shopping at the Vale Farmers’ Market enhances the environment, by reducing packing, waste and food miles. It supports the local economy, and with the traditional and organic methods employed by producers, helps maintain our beautiful countryside and provides the ultimate in traceability.

What can you expect to see there? Everything from meat and poultry, vegetarian and specialist products, eggs, cheese and dairy, bread and baking, fish,

honey, chutneys and preserves, fruit and vegetables, drinks, plants and herbs.Visit them throughout the year.

Tyn Y Caia Farm Our free range hen eggs are eggs which are produced using birds that are permitted to roam freely. This means they taste so much better!We take lots of care to keep our hens in peak condition to provide the best quality free range eggs on a daily basis. Chloe Ford

Tyn y Caia FarmLlandow, Cowbridge, 07866 290761

Llwyn Frank Community Farm Based in Abergavenny, these producers supply potatoes, blackberries, honey, Rowanberry jelly, elderflower, strawberry plants, feverfew, wild garlic, charcoal, firewood, bean poles and dried lavender. Llwyn Ffranc Farm Llanvihangel Crucorney Abergavenny, Monmouthshire NP7 8EN01873 890032 / 07791 [email protected]

Artisan CakesOffers a wide range of cakes, from Welshcakes and cupcakes to individually designed occasion cakes. Every cake is tailor made to suit your requirements. Not only stunning to look at, they taste delicious!

Myfanwy Edwards @artisan_cakesHilton House, Colwinston, Cowbridge CF71 7NJ 01446 771033 www.artisancakes.co.uk

Quality Welsh Plants Selling Fresh Kitchen Herbs, Hand-Made Herb infused Olive Oils and Vinegars, Raspberry Vinegar and Herb Salad Dressings.Also bedding plants, spring baskets and planters and Floral Mothers Day gifts.

Nigel Hunt 01685 877349 / 07564 394378 [email protected]

V ale f arMers

Farmers’ markets are hot business nowadays with more than 50% of people saying it’s more important to buy local produce than organic.

Great House Farm LambYou can be confident that what you purchase from us is top quality, and backed by the British Quality Assured standard mark. This means your meat is of excellent eating quality and comes to you direct from our Great House Farm. Dave & Rob Llewellyn

Great House Farm LambCowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan CF71 7NJ 01446 772344

Mackeral Mal At any one time, the back of my mobile fishmonger van is filled with trout, hake, cod, plaice and monkfish and, of course, ready-to-eat treats such as cockles and crab sticks. Some of the fish is local, some comes from further afield. I always aim to source my fish locally and always look first and foremost for quality and freshness.Mal DaviesMackeral Mal

Cowbridge Farmers MarketArthur John’s Car Park, Cowbridge 1st & 3rd Saturday of every month.

Penarth Farmers MarketWestbourne School, Penarth4th Saturday of every month.

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The Parsnipship We produce unique and original vegetarian and vegan food to sell at farmers markets, festivals and food fairs. We supply our products wholesale too, run a monthly cookery school and cater for weddings and other special events.

Unit C, Penllwyngwent, Saville RoadOgmore Vale, Bridgend CF32 7AX01656 857130 [email protected]

Twin Rivers Poultry And WaterfowlWe pride ourselves on rearing happy, free-range chicken, duck and guinea fowl. available all year round together with free-range turkey and goose. Perfect for Christmas. Mark and Dawn Adams

Penrhiw Farm Llandeilo Road, GarnantAmmanford, Carmarthenshire SA18 1JS01269 822214 / 07880 522165www.penrhiwfarm.co.uk

Tregwilym Produce Freshly made specialist products using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients wherever possible.An original selection of pesto and hum-mus, sauces, jelly preserves, elderflower cordial, and luxury Christmas cakes. Made in the comfort of my own kitchen; handled, prepared and packaged with loving care. Anne Loam

[email protected] 01443 225275

M arkeT Myfanwy Edwards / Jan Rees07813 761474 / 01446 [email protected]

Caermynydd PiggeryOur pig unit is found within the Welsh Hills of Ceredigion and is farmed the traditional way. We produce award winning sausages and bacon products together with fresh pork. Should you have any particular requirements please feel free to contact us.John and Kathy Fordham

Tregaron, Ceredigion SY25 6RF 01974 821 361 www.caermynydd-piggery.co.uk

Caws Teifi Cheese We’re an artisan cheese maker - our renowned cheese, Celtic Promise, is a raw milk, washed-rind cheese. Awarded the most prestigious prize in British Cheese Awards - Supreme Champion in 1998 and in 2005.

John Savage-OnstwedderCaws Teifi Cheese, Glynhynod Llandysul Ceredigion, Swansea SA44 5JY 01239 851528

Pwllywrach FarmFamily run farm, at Colwinston, selling Welsh angus beef and Welsh lamb, using traditional farming practices to produce delicious meat produced the natural way.

Richard EdwardsHilton House or Pwllywrach FarmColwinston, Cowbridge, CF71 7NJ01446 771033www.welshangusbeef.co.uk

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Asia Spice BoxWe sell spice kits containing uniquely blended massalas and a paste of garlic and ginger which truly takes the fuss out of preparation. Our four portion kits are not loaded with salt and preservatives. Try one for yourself and taste the difference! Pete Bowley

07810 293011www.asiaspicebox.com

Blaencamel FarmA family run business in the Aeron Valley, which has been certified organic since 1974. For over 30 years they have produced a wide range of vegetables and field crops from electricity accessed through PV panels.

Cilcennin, Lampeter Llanbedr Pont Steffan Ceredigion SA48 8BD 01570 470529 [email protected] www.blaencamel.com

Seasons Farm FoodsWe offer an extensive range of home baked products made from locally sourced ingredients. We create a range of savouries; pies, pasties, sausage rolls, cold slicing pies, scotch eggs, Glamorgan sausages, faggots and gravy plus a range of stews. We offer a buffet service for all budgets and occasions.

07920 427410 www.seasonsfarmfoods.co.uk

Otley BreweryAward winning suppliers of locally produced real ale.

Unit 39 Albion Industrial EstatePontypridd CF37 4NX

01443 [email protected] on Facebook and Twitterwww.otleybrewing.co.uk

Venison From The ValeOffering a variety of organic venison cuts, including mince for a quick spag bol or loin, all available from the Deer Park Shop on Friday’s between 4-6pm. The only producers of prime (under 2yrs old) venison in Wales.Wayne Edy & Maria Leijerstam

Llantrithyd Park, Bonvilston CF5 6TQ01446 781900 Follow on Facebookwww.healthyvenison.co.uk

Flapjack FairyHere at Flapjack Fairy, cakes and bakes are home produced in small batches right here in Wales, using quality ingredients offering the taste of home-made to all. We proudly, and passionately, produce flapjacks, traybakes and bespoke baking for any occasion. Emma

[email protected]

V ale f arMers M arkeT

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InspIratIonal kItchens

that reflect your style, personalIty

and complIment your home

Richard Marc Anthony

01656 657514

[email protected]

www.luxuryforliving.co.uk

facebook.com/luxuryforliving

@luxuryforliving

linkedin.com/in/luxuryforliving

STunning diSplAyS

cAn be Seen AT ewenny

gARden cenTRe

geT yOuR FREE eSTiMATe TOdAy

KiTchenS MAde in bRiTAin

C O W B R I D G E

New Ty Hafan boutique opens in CowbridgeStars from the worlds of entertainment and sport joined crowds of shoppers for the opening of Ty Hafan’s first boutique-style store in Cowbridge.

Real Radio’s Jagger and Woody officially opened ‘Emporium’ and Nev Wilshire and Ragsy, star of The Voice, entertained the crowds with some songs, including a joint rendition of The Call Centre’s ‘Mr Brightside’ Christmas single. Cardiff Blues player Andries Pretorius and his wife Rosie, a Welsh international netball player, also attended, adding extra glamour to the launch.

The shop, on 29 High Street, sells designer items, vintage-inspired homeware, wedding dresses and statement jewellery, fit for the most discerning fashionista. After opening its doors at 1pm, an amazing £1,600 worth of goods was sold in just four hours.

Income from Ty Hafan’s shops makes a valuable contribution towards providing comfort, care and specialist support to hundreds of life-limited children and their families from across Wales

To volunteer or to donate items to the Emporium store, please visit www.tyhafan.org or call 029 2053 2199.

VA L E W I D E

Could you be a therapeutic counsellor?Would you like a career in therapeutic counselling?To qualify as a counsellor, you can complete a diploma.

The Ty Elis Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling runs over two years on a part-time basis and includes 100 hours of supervised practise. The course is competitively priced for affordability and no formal qualifications are necessary. Tŷ Elis www.tyelis.org.uk [email protected] 786486Follow on Facebook and Twitter

DIPLOMAINTHERAPEUTICCOUNSELLING

Please contact us:www.tyelis.org.ukTel: 01656 786486

email: [email protected]

Follow us on

* 2 year part time diploma

* Qualify as a counsellor

* 100 hours of supervised practise

* Competitively priced for affordability

* No formal qualifications necessary

Tel: 01443 667800 | www.vale-hotel.comVale Resort, Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY*Two adults, two children under 12

Carvery Sunday lunch, family ticket £60* Mother’s Day spa package only £55pp Afternoon tea for two only £15 Cupcake break only £99pp

Mother’s Day break for two from £130

Gift ideas from the Vale Resort

Sunday 30th March

WIDE SELECTION OF

GIFT VOUCHERS ALSO AVAILABLE

ONLINE

MOTHER’S DAY

365 sleepless nights2184 nappy changes

17472 baby wipes2920 feeds

1 Mother’s day

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M eeT T he s TylisT

Owners Hayley Williams and Alexis Williams of Blu Hair Design, Penarth love it when they take on a young, passionate apprentice, only to watch that person develop and grow. They saw that passion in Stephanie Henley, 19 who will be passing her level 3 examination in June. We chat to Stephanie to find out why she wanted to get into the profession and what she feels she brings to Blu.

Where do you live?I live in Cardiff, not far from Penarth, so it’s really convenient.

When did you join Blu Hair Design?I started in 2011 as an assistant.

What will achieving a Level 3 in hairdressing mean to you?It will mean I will be proficient in lots of different techniques of cutting and styling.

What qualities do you think you bring to the salon?I am artistic and quirky. I love working with all of the clients at Blu but I particularly love working with young students as they are not afraid to try new styles and colours and are open to whatever I suggest.

What do you enjoy about working at Blu Hair Design?I love the team and the clients. There’s a really friendly atmosphere and Hayley and Alexis are very supportive. We get to enter competitions and work on fashions shoots for fashion shows and magazine photoshoots. There’s never a dull day.

What do you like to do in your spare time?Like any young girl I love shopping and fashion. I like Armani, Topshop, Zara and also online shopping. I like the idea of mixing name brands with high street stores. I love shopping for vintage items online or in charity shops. I don’t like to follow the crowd and always try and get a bit of my personality into what I wear.

Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?I’d love to be in London, being involved in photoshoots and runways. It’s my dream job.

Describe yourself in three words ...Crazy. Loud. Quirky.

Blu Hair Design 1 Washington Chambers Stanwell Road, Penarth CF64 2AF 029 2070 4040 Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

s TePhanie h enley

“ I love the team and the clients. There’s a really friendly atmosphere.”

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Why am I sharing it with you? Guilt possibly - my mum always encouraged us to share. Seriously, we love it there and it deserves to do well - good businesses do. I love everything about The Gallery; its interior design is chic and tasteful, the service is excellent (could front-of-house be more any more friendly and accommodating?), the food is, quite frankly, a revelation. The truth is the Vale needs more restaurants like The Gallery - restaurants where the passion for great cooking and creating the kind of ambience where people want to eat is embraced.

If you have to pat a back in praise for The Gallery’s success then that should fall squarely on the shoulders of Barnaby (Barney) Hibbert. The Gallery is Barney’s vision. “I always say if you’re not enjoying the process, what’s the point?” Barney says. “Sometimes small is beautiful and we’re just trying to create something really special in our small part of the world.”

The one thing that shines through is Barney’s passion for using the very best local produce from local suppliers. His face lights up when he talks about The Gallery’s home-made cooking, the rustic style, and the local ingredients. Yes there are the pretty, playful dishes that all good chefs enjoy creating, but nothing too self indulgent and everything is cooked with the greatest integrity and respect for the ingredients. This is grown-up cooking. There’s a maturity to the kitchen and confidence in the cooking that you rarely find these days. It’s natural - not forced in any way.

The Gallery has just been awarded 3 star champion status from The Sustainable Restaurant Association with special praise saved for their sourcing policy which was given 81% the best in Wales from members of the association. Due to the popularity of the restaurant they now offer a bistro menu downstairs.

I like The Gallery’s friendliness. It’s relaxed. It’s informal - you can pop in for a beer, a coffee or cocktail.No drama, no pretence, just great service and really good food - it’s everything you could want from a restaurant. So, as much as it pains me - as much as I want to keep shtoom, as much as I want to keep it under my hat, I can’t, it’s just too good not to share. Hmmm, talking about sharing... it’s Mother’s Day soon.

Sometimes you come across a restaurant that’s so good you really don’t want to share it with anyone else. The Gallery on Barry’s, Broad Street is one of those restaurants.

M uM’s T he W Ord

The Gallery2 Broad Street, Barry01446 735300Twitter @TheGalleryBarrywww.the-gallery-restaurant.co.uk

Open Thurs 5pm onwards. Fri and Sat12pm onwards (restaurant 12pm -2.30pm and 6pm - 9.30pm). Sunday12pm - 4pm. Available for private hireall other times.

“It’s informal - you can pop in for a beer, a coffee or cocktail. No drama, no pretence, just great service and really good food.”

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Usually, when press releases describe someone as dynamic, you can be pretty sure they’re not - at least in my experience, so when I received a release about a new retail venture in Morgan Arcade, I would have been a little sceptical had I not already bumped into Chris at a charity event several weeks earlier.

Chris is one of Wales’ most dynamic businessmen - fact. He is one of the most charismatic and enthusiastic entrepreneurs I can honestly say I’ve ever met. Back in the charity event, as he was painting his picture of The Brogue Trader, I believed he could pull off his vision but you never really know until you see the finished article.

Some months later, I happened to be chatting to Russell Scott-Lawson of Hawkes Essentials and Russell informed me that Chris was in and feverously transforming what used to be the skateboard shop in Morgan Arcade so I thought I must take a look.

At this point, I must say I meet a lot of dreamers in business. Lots of people talk up their plans but, in my experience, for one reason or another, they fall short. The Brogue Trader is certainly not one of those. Chris’ retail dream surpasses everything he described to me at the dinner several months earlier.

What was, a quite a cool skate shop, has been transformed, beautifully, into a shrine to fine footwear. To say it’s elegantly appointed does it a disservice. Hand finished wood panelling showcases the very best gentleman’s shoes including many hand-made items which have received a Royal Warrant.

The decor is sublime - the branding is perfectly and professionally executed. If you didn’t know any better, you’d say The Brogue Trader had been established over a hundred years. Honestly, if I had to show someone an excellent example of how to start a retail business, The Brogue Trader would be it.

Chris’ enthusiasm is infectious. He’s passionate about every aspect of the business - from the British hand-made shoes he sells to the quality coffee he proudly serves you as you browse. Nothing about this business is second rate.

I ask him if he intends to open more shops - knowing the answer before he replies. “Of course,” he replies with a big smile. “We want to get the offering absolutely right then we’ll think about expanding around the country.”

As we go to press, Chris is launching The Brogue Trader website - an ecommerce operation with a mobile element offering customers the opportunity to have an expert fitting service and to purchase prestige shoes at their office or home.

Chris tells me The Brogue Trader has exceeded all sales expectations since opening and I’m not in the least bit surprised.

While enjoying a very successful sales career in the automotive industry, Chris Macnamara had always dreamed of opening his own business. In December 2013 - after months of planning and hard work - that dream became reality.

B rOGue T rader

The Brogue Trader27a Morgan ArcadeCardiff CF10 1AF

Tel/Fax 029 2037 203607811 111 [email protected] www.thebroguetrader.com

“Chris is one of Wales’ most dynamic businessmen - fact.”

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50

Matthew Hapgood is a man who knows that life is short and you have to take your opportunities when they arise so, last October he decided, with the help of his partner Danielle, to open Flow Surf and Skate in Porthcawl. We find out more ...

Why did you set up in Porthcawl? I gained most of my retail experience working for Double Overhead in Porthcawl, and I feel as though I know the local area pretty well. I had a great time working for them in retail and also in the wholesale side of the business, but I always wanted to set up something myself. When the Double Overhead store in Porthcawl closed, we felt there was a gap in the market with nobody really promoting surfing and skating hardware in a big way. Porthcawl has a rich heritage in both surfing and skateboarding - the town has produced European and British Surfing champions like Simon Tucker, Mark Schofield and Brad Hockridge and there are also some talented youngsters who now call Porthcawl home. We also boast some really good surf spots, and with Rest Bay just ten minutes from the M4 motorway, we get people visiting from as far away as London, Birmingham and sometimes even further afield.

Who is involved in the business?I manage the day-to-day running of the business, and my partner Danielle helps me out on certain days of the week. Our little one-year-old keeps us on our toes too, so time management is crucial! Our family has been instrumental in setting up – and they are always roped in to help whenever possible!

How is the business doing?We had a pretty good start – We must thank people who came out to support us (and who continue to do so). Our opening day in October was great, with tea, coffee and cakes – and even though our credit card machine failed on us, everyone was really stoked to see us open. At the end of the year we were running about 10% off our forecast, which is not too bad all things considered.

We have worked very closely with brands and suppliers who tend to hold a lot of stock. This way we can free up cash and work more on a ‘just-in-time’ approach. Many of the big brands prefer stores to place large pre-orders, which is great for the brands, but not so good for small start-ups like us. We are expanding our range of products on a weekly basis – and if we don’t have it, we will do our very best to get it for you!

Do you surf and skate yourself?Yeah – well I started skating probably before I started surfing, and back then in the late 80’s we were always getting moved on for skating curbs and steps in the local neighbourhood. The local skate club, or skate faction I think it was called, campaigned to get some facilities which never happened.

We had to resort to building our own ramps – we even built a halfpipe in my back garden. Thinking about it, I’m not sure my mum had a say in it at the time! I think it is great that the Council have finally built the concrete bowl over at Heol-y-Goedwig near the duckpond in Porthcawl, and there are plans for more facilities for the future.

Nowadays, it is a lot more difficult to go for a skate or a surf, but we still manage it when the waves are good or when it is dry! We close the shop on Mondays so that’s normally the time we go to the beach. Again it is great to have friends and family around to call on for babysitting duties! Thanks guys!

l eT i T f lOW

“We try to focus on brands that excite us.”

Photo by Claire Beach

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What products does the shop stock and what are your most popular brands?We stock all manner of wetsuits and neoprene accessories like gloves, boots, hoods as well as all of the hardware associated with surfing – surfboards, boardbags, leashes and of course that great smelling wax! A popular brand of surf wax (Sex Wax) now produce air fresheners – and they are amazing! We also carry a load of backpacks, skate decks, and all of the components to make your own board as well as complete skateboards which are ready to roll! We also offer clothing, and for spring, we will have the complete line-up of men’s, ladies, girls and boys. Popular brands for us are C-skins and Xcel wetsuits, Elusive, Northcore surf hardware, Mi-Pac backpacks and Animal clothing. We are taking on some great brands for summer including Reef and Havaianas sandals, Red Paddle Co stand-up paddle boards, and we will have a load of Rip Curl wetsuits arriving too. We try to focus on brands that excite us, and that aren’t churned out to the masses. We’re looking to import some cool surfboards from the US too!

Do you offer any services? We offer advice on anything to do with surfing or skating – be it where and when to go for a surf or skate, and of course we offer advice on equipment. If we haven’t got the most suitable thing in the shop for you, we will do our best to get it for you, or send you in the direction of someone else who can help. We do not do surf lessons right now, but we are working with Hugh at the Porthcawl Surf School who does a great job – he’s at the beach in all weather, and pretty much 364 days a year!

What do you think sets you apart from other surf/skate shops?We are trying to create a community store – Of course we need to survive and make money, but our mantra is to ‘spread the stoke’ about surfing and skating. We want our store to be a relaxed place to visit and to hang out, and also to create a place where people will enjoy shopping.

Who shops with you? We have a huge range of clientele right now – We get the local kids checking out all of the skate stuff, guys and girls who have surfed their entire life, as well as newcomers to the surf lifestyle. In the run up to Christmas we saw a huge spike in clothing sales – from grandparents kitting out their grandkids, to mums and dads buying for each other. We are trying to cater for all ages – and we will get there, just one step at a time!

What are your hopes for the business in the future?Our website www.flowsurfandskate.co.uk is a pretty good representation of our brand, but keeping it updated is a full-time job. Moving forward we will look to integrate the stock control we have in the shop with the website (they are separate at the moment) and push online a bit more.

Aside from that we will be expanding our range of surfboards, bringing in some new brands that aren’t available locally right now. We’re also excited to be offering rental on wetsuits and surfboards this spring so we can give the ‘surf buzz’ to as many people as possible. Sometimes it’s a big outlay to buy a board and wetsuit off the bat, but trying it out for a day for £15 is much more reasonable.

l eT i T f lOW

Flow Surf and Skate 28 New RoadPorthcawlMid GlamorganCF36 5DN

01656 788446info@flowsurfandskate.co.ukwww.flowsurfandskate.co.ukFollow us on Facebook and Twitter



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Like many women, our New Year’s resolution to diet has gone by the wayside, and it’s only February! If you have tried every diet under the sun and you can’t seem to shift the weight then here’s something you might want to try. Dr. Helen McCarthy tells us more about her approach to permanent weight loss without dieting.

P OsiTiVely h unGry Do you:n Love food but hate dieting?n Want to lose weight permanently?

For those of us who enjoy good food, dieting can lead to feelings of deprivation and loss of enjoyment.

Dieting usually fails because1. The way you eat on a particular diet is very different from the way you normally eat. This demands effort and energy which you may not have time for. 2. All diets work against the systems in the body which regulate appetite and eating and therefore put physiological and psychological pressure on the dieter to eat. 3. People have natural inbuilt blocks to changing established habits, even if they are adept at dealing with external challenges. This is recognised in many diets but is not effectively addressed.

You can lose weight without major changes to your lifestylePermanent weight loss requires permanent changes in eating habits. But these changes don’t have to be drastic.

In fact, changing habits is easier when done in manageable steps. Also, with Positively Hungry© there is no change to the types of foods you eat. If your diet is unbalanced, you improve the balance.

Work with, not against, your body’s systems for regulating eating and appetiteWeight loss is much easier when you work with rather than against your biology. When you do this, you minimise the physiological pressure involved. Tuning in to what your gut is telling you about how hungry or full you are allows your eating to be governed naturally. When you wait to eat until you are definitely hungry and stop eating as soon as you are just full, you can lose weight.

Deal with internal barriers to success from the startPsychological factors which don’t cause a problem in other areas of life can stubbornly hamper efforts to lose weight. If you find that the simple steps below don’t work for you, Positively Hungry© can help with simple techniques to overcome these “saboteurs” permanently.

Steps to achieving permanent weight loss

Step 1:Use the Positive Hunger (PH) Scale© printed below whenever you think of eating. For a free credit card sized copy of the scale, email [email protected] with your name and postal address.

Step 2:Wait until you are -3 (definitely hungry) on the scale before eating. This will mean tolerating mild, gentle hunger. When you are -3, it is time to eat.

Step 3:When you eat a meal, keep an eye on your PH number. Stop eating when you reach +3 and do something else.

Positively Hungry was developed by Dr Helen McCarthy, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society who has 25 years’ experience working as a Clinical Psychologist. She has a B.Sc. Honours degree in Experimental Psychology from the University of Durham and a Doctorate in the Psychology of eating disorders from the University of Oxford. Dr McCarthy trained as a Clinical Psychologist within the British National Health Service. She now works in private practice and offers individual Positively Hungry consultations in Cardiff, Harley Street and Bristol.

Visit www.positivelyhungry.com where you can book a consultation with Dr McCarthy in person or via Skype and read more about the approach.

Positively Hungry© is a trademark of Dr. Helen McCarthy and is copyright.

“Weight loss is easier when you work with your biology.”

Positively [email protected]

53

It’s been only a few months since Melinda Mulcahy opened her studio in Cowbridge. We caught up with her to see how things were going.

Who are you and what do you do?My name in Melinda Mulcahy and I make precious jewellery from my new studio shop located behind Gregg’s the Bakers on the High Street, Cowbridge. It’s been open since Mid November.

What drew you to designing and making fashion jewellery?I love high fashion and I have always kept a keen eye on the catwalk. In fact there was a time I thought I would go into fashion design straight after school as I studied textiles, design and art for six years during school. Ten years ago now, I left my sales career with a feeling that I wanted a challenge. I attended an event that showed jewellery and thought I could do it better myself, so I started to investigate working with gemstones and it grow from there.

How do you come up with such innovative, creative ideas?I love the arts, having studied ballet from the age of three. I travel a lot so I’m drawn to different cultures and have a keen interest in architecture. Even a chance meeting can influence my creations. There is often a meaningful message behind a design. For instance I designed the Postcard with Love to send to my mother who lives in Australia. Often one design leads to another as I then followed with the Love Letter in Morse code as Men prefer more streamline designs and I get loads of orders to send to military personnel around the world, so I thought Morse code would be more personal.

I want to make customers feel like they are giving something really meaningful and heartfelt; it’s not just a gift.

Who would you like to design for?At the moment I’m currently in contact with Cate Blanchett’s stylist Elizabeth Steward who is highly ranked as a stylist. But over the years I’ve had the pleasure of working with several stylists like Gok Wan and each experience brings new and unique challenges. I have special private clients who travel to different continents weekly, so they send me pictures and I’m trusted to post them bespoke designs to their next destination.

What are your most requested pieces?The most requested is the plectrum. But I stopped making the Daddy’s Stash bowl about four years ago now and I still get emails requesting to me make them one.

What materials do you use and why?I use various materials throughout all my designs that I have personally sourced around the world. Yellow gold, sterling silver, natural gemstones and pearls in varying qualities, shapes and sizes. I also have shells from around the world.

The main product for personalised items is 999 fine silver which is in fact a 100% recycled product and is more pure than sterling. It offers a wonderful hands-on approach to designing although it’s rather notorious to produce a high shine. I really enjoy mixing materials, quite often gemstone pieces are one-off designs that cannot be reproduced.

Who is your market and where do they come from?As my business has been online for ten years now, orders come from around the world, especially families who have moved abroad. Customers are surprised and appreciate the gifting service I offer, either sending abroad or receiving orders from abroad to be sent within the UK and because I have such a large selection of gifts, there is something for men, women, children from £10 upwards.

Are you constantly thinking of new designs? Every waking moment of the day and sometimes in my sleep as well. Sometimes it drives me crazy.

Why did you choose Cowbridge to set up your design studio?I love the buzzing atmosphere of Cowbridge and we have many connections there, it was a natural choice. I hope Cowbridge will attract more designers so that it becomes a hub of creativity.

Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?I hope to be called upon by Welsh celebrities who choose to support Welsh designers for their big events! I’m introducing other lines including homewares this year and I never stop designing so I’m looking forward to seeing more designs coming to market. It would be amazing to be involved in a real Welsh Fashion Week or Day that showcases and promotes independent Welsh based designer/makers rather than multi-national brands. Finally, I know there are some amazingly talented workers/crafters around south Wales who have lost their jobs and craft over the years in leather manufacturing and I would love to team up and see what we could create.

M elinda M ulCahy

Melinda MulcahyRear Ground Studio27 High Street, [email protected]

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P lanninG M akes P erfeCT

With spring just around the corner, now is the time to plan what jobs are needed in the garden. We ask our resident gardening expert, Rob Hodge, what should we prioritise and what is achievable right now.

Make a plan and try to stick to itDo your research, books, magazines and of course the internet are all there to help you decide where you want your garden to be before spring arrives. Prioritise what’s important and what’s achievable in the time you have available.

Try to create as clear a picture as possibleClean and clear away the remains of last year’s garden rubbish. Remember to recycle as much as possible, compost as much as you can and if allowed by your neighbours have a controlled bonfire and spread the ashes onto the garden afterwards.

Once you have decided on your plan do your hard landscaping firstLaying, paving and patios, painting, fencing, sheds and other wooden garden structures with wood preservative should all be done now if the weather allows.

Major pruning can also be done now Simple tree surgery, reducing large shrubs and hedges must all be done before the new growth appears before the spring.

Consider wildlifeBirds, mammals, and amphibians must all live happily alongside us in the garden, create a wildlife garden that can be left throughout the whole season or a simple pond to help frogs and toads breed and create their own environment.

Make use of all aspectsFences, walls, dead trees will all provide a perfect framework for climbers, even think about framing doorways with fragrant varieties such as honeysuckles and jasmines.

If you have enough space create a vegetable gardenStart off small and only grow for your immediate family, you can always add to it when you have more time.

Create a herb gardenConstruct it if possible as close as you can to the kitchen door for easy access. Keep the choice of plants simple, plants like rosemary, sage, thyme and chives are all easy to grow and just as easy to use in the kitchen.

Remember to leave gaps for plants that are not available nowSuch as annuals and bulbs, most of them will only become available as the season progresses.

Don’t suffer from gardening guiltYou don’t have to do it all by yourself, there are people out there who can help you out, sometimes even the simplest of plans can become unachievable and the work in your garden has the opposite affect that gardening should have on you and it becomes a struggle and a chore. Remember some people’s garden enjoyment is to just sit in it and enjoy it, don’t suffer with gardening guilt, it’s not everybody’s cup of tea, but it is mine!

Rodge Hodge Horticulture01633 744075www.rodgehodgehorticulture.co.ukFind us on Facebook

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Why did you set up The Hair Consultants?I have over sixteen years’ experience in all aspects of hairdressing, hair extensions and hair replacement. I was seeing a lot of clients needing help when I had a very popular hair dressing salon. It gave me so much pleasure being able to help people with a small amount of hair loss and those who were totally bald, that I decided to work specifically in this area. We are not on the high street so clients feel comfortable in a private environment.

Who are your clients?We see clients that have thinning hair, male and female pattern baldness, and those who have total baldness. Parents also bring their children to us for help.

What treatments do you offer?Firstly we chat to our clients about their lifestyle as this will depend on the type of treatment we offer. We also investigate what type of hair loss the client is suffering from and work with them to help them decide the best option of hair replacement system for them.

What method of replacement do you find works best?I love our mesh replacement system, it is an alternative to conventional wigs, the beauty of this is that clients can wear it day and night without removing it. It’s the ultimate breathable mesh membrane, this allows hair to be implanted between any existing hair allowing your own hair to breath on the outside unlike a wig. Our mesh system moves with the natural contours of the head creating a natural look even close up.

Can clients treat it like normal hair?Yes, they can shower in it, go swimming, and not be afraid of going out on a blustery day.

How is it maintained?Clients need to come to us once a month for slight realignment and tightening and they usually choose to have a replacement in around a year and a half ’s time.

Would you ever trade places and go back to hairdressing?Not in a heartbeat. I get so much satisfaction seeing my clients leave me with a smile on their faces and walking with their heads held high.

T he h air C OnsulTanTs

Losing your hair through stress or illness can be a very upsetting thing. It can knock your confidence, make you feel isolated from your friends and family and stop you enjoying your life to the full. There was a time when the only option was to wear an uncomfortable, unnatural looking wig. Not anymore, with the help of Victoria Shellard, clients can look and feel amazing. Victoria tells us more.

Victoria ShellardThe Hair Consultants01446 781324www.thehairconsultants.com

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

“Firstly we chat to our clients about their lifestyle as this will depend on the type of treatment we offer. We also investigate what type of hair loss the client is suffering from and work with them to help them decide the best option.”

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C O W B R I D G E

River View celebrates Chinese New YearGuests enjoyed an evening of delicious food and colourful entertainment at the River View Restaurant in Cowbridge as the restaurant celebrated Chinese New Year.

The food was plentiful and the guests thoroughly enjoyed the elaborate and energetic lion dance.

River View Chinese RestaurantUnit 1, Britannia HousePenny Lane, CowbridgeCF71 7AD01446 771668www.riverview668.co.uk

p E N A R t h p I E R pAV I L I O N

VMG Christmas Event at Penarth PavilionA successful and enjoyable VMG Christmas event took place at Penarth Pier Pavilion.

The VMG was honoured to be the first corporate event to be held in this beautifully restored pavilion. Guests were greeted by young musicians from Stanwell School who serenaded them on cello, guitar and violin. In the comfortable theatre David Trotman, Pier Pavilion Director, gave a fascinating talk on the restoration project.

Working with a wide range of groups, especially local children and servicemen suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. On the commercial front, the theatre is now showing a number of films each week and has proven itself to be so successful that the programme will be expanded, space is also available to hire for exhibitions and meetings.

For more information visitwww.gardenofcardiff.com

Welcome to Vale Life Magazine’s Social Life section, a veritable who’s who in and around the Vale. Vale

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L L A N t R I s A N t

Expansion for leading micro-breweryOne of Wales’ leading micro-brewers, The Kite Brewery, has acquired a new premises in a bid to deal with growing demand. The Kite Brewery, established in early 2011 has relocated from Gorslas, Carmarthenshire to Llantristant, Mid Glamorgan. The new site, five times the size of the former location, comes following a record year for the company and is designed to increase annual output by 60%. Over £350,000 has been injected into the business resulting in a state-of-art brewery designed to further improve brewing technique and the creation of several new jobs. The brewery’s locally sourced ales are currently stocked in more than 300 pubs, bars, hotels and restaurants throughout Wales and the South West.

For more information visitwww.thekitebrewery.com

sOCial l ife

(L-R) Director, Rhys Anstee, Managing Director, John Anstee and Director of Glamorgan Beer, Richard Anstee

Chris Rogers

p E N A R t h p I E R pAV I L I O N

Pavilion celebrates with Gothic Masque BallThe Pavilion was transformed into a ghostly ballroom full of faded glamour. Canapés and drinks were provided, while guests were photographed in full gothic splendour in a bespoke photo-booth. Dancing was actively encouraged and guests duly obliged wholeheartedly, accompanied into the early hours by a live band.

For further information please visit www.penarthpavilion.co.uk

B A R RY

Food For Thought celebrates 30th birthday Customers flooded the very popular deli in Barry’s High Street as they celebrated their 30th anniversary in business.

The deli has built up an envious following of loyal customers who pop in for early morning coffee, a wide selection of sandwiches, rolls, salads etc for lunch, their famous pasties and welsh cakes for midday break and lots of cupboard essentials. Roll on the next 30 years!

Food for Thought Deli12 High Street, Barry CF62 7EA01446 735711Follow on Facebook

58

t h o m a s g a r d i n e rB A T H R O O M S & I N T E R I O R S

029 2067 9815 www.thomas-gardiner.com

59

t h o m a s g a r d i n e rB A T H R O O M S & I N T E R I O R S

029 2067 9815 www.thomas-gardiner.com

Thanks for taking the time to read the winter edition of Vale Life magazine.

Vale Life is the Vale Of Glamorgan’s premier lifestyle magazine.

We print 10,000 copies of each edition and cut no corners on design, production and the quality of our print.

Talking about printing, we source pretty much everything locally, and over 95% of Vale Life’s turnover is reinvested

back into the community of South Wales.

If you have a business and are interested in promoting your goods or services to an aspirational audience in the Vale then

Vale Life is almost certainly right for you.

Jennifer Hobbs-RobertsEditor

[email protected]

T hank Y ou

Kevin Green, Wealth Coachwww.kevingreen.com

“Follow your heart, not your head.”

We value our advertisers. We appreciate the trust they place in us by promoting their businesses in our magazines.

With our local partners, we currently publish a range of high quality quarterly titles across Wales.

You can advertise your business from as little as £35 per season in this magazine.

Pick-up-ability! Our magazines aren’t like other magazines. They have real

pick-up appeal - in fact, they really do go like hot cakes.

Quality comes first... along with the environment. We’re passionate about quality. The magazines are beautifully written and designed, and printed locally in South Wales on high quality paper (and no nasty varnishes or lamination -

we’re as green as green can be).

Quality distribution to an affluent, aspirational audience... We distribute our magazines to over 1,000 carefully selected

outlets across South Wales.

We’d love to have your business on board. If you’d like to promote your business or service in our

magazines, please get in touch, we’d love the opportunity to work with you.

P romoTing Y our B usiness

We proudly publish four Life-style magazines and one business to business title.

Vale Life (our first magazine). This covers the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan - the most southerly county in Wales and deemed to be the most affluent. Vale Life was the first magazine we published.

City LifeThe premier lifestyle magazine for Cardiff, Wales’ capital city.

The magazine is delivered to all areas of Cardiff.

Valleys LifeAt the heart of the South Wales Valleys. From the Neath Valley

in the West to Blaenau Gwent and Pontypool in the East.

West LifeCovering Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and coastal

Ceredigion, West Life is in touch with the relaxed lifestyle of this very special part of Wales.

In BusinessWales’ premier magazine for people in business. This is the kind of publication people in business want to read;

interesting, inspirational and aspirational.

o ur T iTles

We proudly publish four Life-style magazines and one business to business title.

“The best advertising we’ve ever done!” Andy Bradshaw, Partner, Hamptons, Penarth.

“Honestly, the best response I’ve ever had.”Matt Mullooly, Owner, Northern Star, Penarth.

“At last, advertising that really delivers.”Ann Bryl, Owner, Bryl’s Boutique, Barry.

“A truly astonishing response.”Russell Scott-Lawson, Owner, Hawkes, Cardiff.

“The experience I have had with this magazine has restored my faith in advertising. Gauci Organic Candles

is a small business with an equally small advertising budget. We have to make every pound count and that’s what we get with Vale Life, City Life and Valleys Life. It’s refreshing to find a magazine that really understands my

business. They are never short of ideas. I recommend them whenever I can.”

Spiro Gauci, Owner, Gauci Organic Candles, Cardiffwww.gaucicandles.co.uk

“These are beautiful publications. We love working with people who are passionate about what they do.”

Spiro Borg, Spiros Caterers, www.spiros.co.uk

We’d love the opportunity to show you what a truly effective campaign in our publications can achieve.

W haT a dverTisers s aY

St Peters Hall, St Peters Street, Cardiff CF24 3BATel: 029 2049 4425 • www.spiros.co.uk • [email protected]

“Our passion is bespoke catering for conferences, events, location catering, your business buffets or our Chef at Home service. We love to make your occasion truly memorable.”

Find us on Facebook @SPIROSCATERERS

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Vale Life Winter 2014