News and views September 2018

Keeping you in the loop.

The local approach

Meat59 are supporters of the local approach, sourcing as much of their produce as possible from a close network of local suppliers. Owner Jenna Heasman tells us: “I think it’s important for people to start looking at meat differently, to see it more as a treat which doesn’t necessarily have to be included in every meal and to think about buying quality meat over quantity.” With this in mind, Meat59 source all their meat from local butcher Gribbles, fresh buns from Oliver’s Bakery, fish from Gibsons Plaice on Magdalen road, beer from Bays, Exeter, Red Rock and Wild Beer breweries and ice cream from Yarde Farm. Jenna continues: “Sourcing quality produce locally means we play our part in reducing mass farming and have less of an environmental impact than if we rely on companies based further afield.”

For more information call 01392 672043 or visit www.meat59.com

Crafting and designing bespoke architecture

Louise Crossman Architects have been crafting and designing bespoke architectural schemes across Devon and Somerset for over 25 years. Working regularly within sensitive locations, and often with listed buildings, the team love to enhance the enjoyment and use of spaces. With consideration to the building, location, history and their clients’ aspirations, and by also considering the external landscape and natural light available, their aim is to create homes that will be a delight to live in for years to come. 

Whether you want to create a light and modern space or prefer to retain traditional features (or maybe even a mixture of both), why not have a chat with one of their architects to discuss the potential of your home?

For more information call 01392 260490 or visit www.lcarchitects.co.uk

Princess Theatre presents Dan Snow

Princess Theatre presents An Evening with Dan Snow. Dan is a historian, broadcaster and television presenter, who presents history programmes for the BBC and other broadcasters, and the show features anecdotes of memorable experiences from his successful career. Otherwise known as ‘The History Guy,’ Dan will also research and include historical facts and stories relating to the specific area/town of each theatre on the tour and will be aided by the use of digital screens. The show will be an undoubted success with academics, students, families (young and old) and all those interested in the history of Torquay and the surrounding area. Ultimately concluding with a 20-minute question and answer session so you can satisfy your burning historical queries!

For more information call 0844 8713023 or visit www.atgtickets.com/torquay

Transform your home

Bude Windows & Conservatories has completed this stunning new installation at Lynstone in Bude featuring infinity flush sash windows in anthracite grey, stunning Rayaners bi-folding doors to the rear of the property with an obscure glazed balustrade and an incorporated High-Tech blind system, which completes the look of this contemporary and unique property. All in all, the expertly installed windows create a modern and seamless finish that blends with the overall style of the house. Whether you need new windows, doors, an orangery or conservatory, Bude Windows are proud to offer an extensive range of quality glazing products and an expert fitting service to suit all budgets, so get in touch today and discover how you can transform your home.

For more information call 01288 356541 or visit www.budewindows.co.uk

School’s back in! The perfect time for a kid-free break

Autumn is coming and with the school holidays drawing to a close, September is the perfect time to enjoy the delights of Cornwall without those ‘pesky kids’. And just in case there are any still hanging about, play it safe with a stay at The Oceanic Suite Hotel in Falmouth – a luxury getaway exclusively for grown-ups.

Enjoy the stunning coastal walks, the historic sights at Pendennis Castle and the beautiful views over the estuary. Take a relaxing river cruise from the harbour or try your hand at sailing or deep-sea fishing. Indulge your taste buds at one of the many restaurants in town, take a trip to a tropical garden paradise or enjoy some culture at the open-air Minack amphitheatre.

The multi-award-winning Oceanic offers all the comforts of home within a small boutique hotel and has just five designer suites blending five-star hotel facilities with stylish apartment living. Each suite is individually laid out and provides spacious lounges with smart TVs, romantic bedrooms with sumptuous king-sized beds and luxuriously appointed bathrooms boasting showers with body jets and waterfall features. A fully-equipped kitchen or smaller kitchenette is also included for those with special dietary requirements, or for those occasions when you just want to stay in and relax.

Guests can also relax in the stylish rear garden with a large sunken wooden hot tub and enjoy a drink or two from the cosy honesty bar whilst watching the sun set.

For more information call 01326 389330 or visit www.oceanichotelfalmouth.co.uk

Keep your garden in check with Lewis Garden Machinery

Located in Chulmleigh, north Devon, Lewis Garden Machinery supplies and maintains a full range of high quality, excellent value garden machinery for your garden, country estate or contracting business. Owner Ryan tells us: “We know that every garden is different – small or large, level or sloping, contemporary or traditional – and that every gardener is different too. For these reasons, we offer free, impartial advice to help you choose the best machinery to suit your needs and, more importantly, your budget.” The team will go through the mechanism of your new purchase with you, ensuring that it’s as simple to use and maintain as possible, and thanks to the outdoor demonstration area, you can even try before you buy!

For more information call 01769 580378 or visit www.lewisgardenmachinery.co.uk

Autumn colours at Pecorama

Ease into autumn and soak up the September colours in the Pecorama Gardens at Beer, on east Devon’s Jurassic Coast. Enjoy views of glorious Lyme Bay, whether strolling through the grounds or taking a ride on the award-winning Beer Heights Light Railway, whose miniature steam locomotives pull passenger-carrying trains on a mile-long trip through the grounds.

Pecorama is also the home of Peco, the world’s foremost manufacturer of model railway track and you’ll find superbly detailed layouts on display in the Model Railway Exhibition Hall. Complementing the exhibition is the Peco Model Shop, a mecca for enthusiasts with its vast range of stock.

There are also indoor and outdoor play areas, a licensed restaurant and free parking, all combining to make Pecorama an ideal venue for a family day out this autumn, whatever the weather!

For more information call 01297 21542 or visit www.pecorama.co.uk

Make a fresh start with Devon Law

It’s been a fantastic summer in Devon and whilst our gardens and fields aren’t as lush as we would like, we have all been able to enjoy the outdoor activities that the hot sunny weather permits, however, now its time to start thinking about a new season and a fresh start. Devon Law can help you with a wide range of legal services that can help you start making your plans and dreams a reality, from residential conveyancing to commercial advice; Devon Law can guide you and provide you with a personalised service that works with you. We did a little digging and found this review from one impressed client: “Devon Law are so easy to talk to, professional, yet down to earth; I have every confidence in their abilities.”

For more information call 01548 831514 or visit www.devonlaw.co.uk

Art Trek Open Studios

Now in its fifteenth year, the annual Art Trek welcomes visitors into the studios, workspaces and homes of artists across north Devon, Torridge and west Exmoor. This friendly event gives you a fantastic opportunity to meet artists, see their work in progress and buy or commission work directly from them. Event organiser Stella Levy tells us: “I’ve been involved in running Art Trek from the beginning, and it’s always encouraging to see new artists and craftspeople come on board keeping the annual event vibrant and fresh for our visitors far and wide who are drawn to the 55 venues taking part.” Participant, White Moose gallery are hosting the ‘Three Hares’ exhibition (including the pictured ‘Three Hares’ in gold by Jackie Morris), just one of the many art installations worth seeing!

For more information call 01271 379872 or visit www.arttrek.co.uk

Thinking ahead with My Favourite Cottages

It’s never too early to start thinking ahead for next year’s letting season. Although it’s vital that you always invest in the upkeep of your holiday home, it’s also just as important to check that you have the right marketing in place.

The holiday letting market has become increasingly competitive, with so much choice now available for potential bookers. As a Devon based holiday letting agency, My Favourite Cottages strongly believes that the key to successful marketing for any self-catering holiday home is via its own well-designed website, supported by an online booking system and bespoke online marketing plan. This way, an individual property reaches a national target audience and is not just fighting for presence on one agency’s portfolio website! But don’t just take our word for it – contact the team and discover how this unique marketing approach could help your letting business.

For more information call 01271 377432 or visit www.myfavouritecottages.co.uk

Discover marvellous menswear at the House of Sambrook

Specialising in everyday menswear as well as gentlemen’s accessories, the House of Sambrook in Barnstaple brings together traditional tailoring and craftsmanship with modern design, style and aesthetics. With years of experience handcrafting a wide range of bespoke clothing and accessories, as well as making alterations to garments, the team pride themselves on offering the very best service to each and every customer. As they say: “Underpinned by our expertise, we know that clothes maketh the man – and so we maketh the clothes!”

Whether you’re looking for a carefully curated selection of everyday clothing with an emphasis on quality and performance, or a rather more tailored fit, you’ll find what you’re looking for at House of Sambrook. The bespoke tailoring and made-to-measure outfitting service means you can walk away with a truly one-of-a-kind garment and, if you have something you already own that doesn’t quite fit like it used to, House of Sambrook can readjust it for you.

For more information call 01271 373446 or visit www.houseofsambrook.co.uk

Enjoy the perfect north Devon stay at Exmoor Manor

Owners Jan and Kevin have refurbished Exmoor Manor to a high standard and with great attention to detail, so that all rooms enjoy en suites and are perfect
for everyone!

Situated in north Devon with beautiful walks on its doorstep, Exmoor Manor Hotel is perfect for those looking to unleash their inner adventurer.

On top of all of this, you’ll find The Beggar’s Roost Inn – the perfect spot after a day spent exploring for enjoying a local ale, refreshing glass of wine or, indeed, a morsel or two from the delectable menu.

For more information call 01598 753645 or visit www.exmoormanor.co.uk

The perfect base for a walking break

If you’re looking for a great base for a walking break, then Budock Vean Hotel and Cottages is simply perfect. Located by the Helford river, and just a ten-minute stroll from the coast path, there’s a wealth of inland and coastal walks that mean you can head out on anything from a two hour walk to a full day hike. Head across the water via the Helford passage ferry to explore the south side of the river, stop for lunch at a picturesque pub and then make your way back to the hotel for a spot of golf, a leisurely swim or even a rejuvenating spa treatment. The hotel and some of the cottages are also dog friendly so you can explore this beautiful part of Cornwall with your furry friend in tow.

For more information call 01326 250288 or visit www.budockvean.co.uk

Alex Brooks launches new lines of unique wood furniture

Furniture maker, Alex Brooks has just launched a range of indoor furniture, focusing on capturing and enhancing the natural aspects of wood. Alex’s designs (like the pictured charred oak table) cast a spotlight on the stunning end grain detail and organic forms of the material itself, unlike the traditional and standard indoor wood furniture you might find on the high street.

Alex will be showcasing his entire portfolio of work, including new lines, over a two-week period at a pop-up event from 11th until 23rd September, along the Jurassic Coast at Seaton. Alex’s pieces need seeing in person to fully appreciate them, and this event will allow members of the public, interior designers, architects and hotel and restaurant owners to buy furniture and discuss bespoke commissions.

So, if you’ve been looking at updating your old, tired furniture, why not head along and see Alex’s work for yourself?

For more information email hello@alexbrooksfurniture.co.uk or visit www.alexbrooksfurniture.co.uk

Bring your dream home to life with In Ex Design

In Ex Design is a dynamic architectural practice that combines all the critical aspects of design required to make exceptional places. With an integrated approach to architecture, interior design and landscape design, their projects show what can really be achieved with vision, creativity and expertise.

In the hands of In Ex Design you can expect something far beyond what you might have envisioned. Their philosophy to provide a seamless connection between building, interior and outside spaces offers their clients results that go above and beyond their aspirations!

The unique approach to design practiced by this team of Architects, Interior Designers and Landscape Designers delivers and transforms sites and houses to an outstanding level.

For more information call 01395 233807 or visit www.inexdesign.co.uk

Get ready for winter with Fords!

Are you ready for the winter ahead? Have you made sure your boiler fires up properly or that you’re getting the correct amount of heat? The team at Fords is passionate about Gas Safety Week, which is from 17th until 23rd September, and each Fords engineer is kept up to date with all relevant courses, ensuring that they are all gas-safe!

Aaron Patch, Operations Manager at Fords, tells us: “An annual service and gas safety check will ensure your appliances are safe, efficient and reliable which avoids unnecessary breakdowns, with no gas or C02 leaks. Always make sure your C02 alarm is tested and your boiler engineer is fully qualified (check the gas safe ID card); check no vents are blocked, and we strongly advise against any DIY, it just isn’t worth the risk!”

Finally, he tells us: “Set a reminder for your gas safety check!”

For more information call 01395 571000 or visit www.fords.co.uk

Gilboy’s polish really is the bee’s knees!

Established nearly 25 years ago with the help of the Prince’s Trust, the team at Gilboy’s Furniture Restorers are celebrating this autumn after being selected as a finalist in the Rural Business of the Year Awards 2018/19.

The small team of craftsmen have been busy bees over the last few years, developing a unique beeswax furniture polish, Gilboys Gold, produced by Simon, Will and Archie in their riverside workshop in Staverton just outside of Totnes.

“Our aim was to create a furniture polish using the very best ingredients with no compromise. We are extremely fortunate to have pure triple-filtered beeswax sourced direct from the bees at Buckfast Abbey,” says business owner Simon. Testament to its quality, Gilboy’s Gold has received high praise since its launch a few years ago, and continually received five-star reviews from users worldwide.

For more information call 01803 762763 or visit www.gilboys.co.uk

Danielle O’Connor Akiyama to attend Driftwood Gallery

On 16th September, Driftwood Gallery in Ilfracombe will host a unique exhibition by world-renowned Canadian artist, Danielle O’Connor Akiyama, who’ll be there from 1pm to 3pm, showcasing a selection of her original artworks and collectable limited editions.

Having enjoyed major international success as an artist for over 30 years, Danielle has spent much of her life travelling, exhibiting her vibrant, exquisite masterpieces to great acclaim all over the world.  She tells us: “The great forces in nature of wind, earth, water and fire fuel the creative flow, and as an artist it is important to honour the simple, basic qualities that are the foundation – the mother lode of enduring beauty.”

Akiyama’s floral and abstract canvases combine impressionistic style with a technical approach based on the extensive study of Japanese brush painting, creating a distinctive fusion of Eastern and Western artistry and making her works highly prized by art collectors around the globe.

For more information call 01271 862590 or visit www.driftwoodcontemporaryart.co.uk/ilfracombe

The Blueriver Cottages portfolio continues to grow

From magnificently positioned accommodation in Salcombe, to stylish apartments in Dartmouth, Blueriver Cottages’ new properties will leave you even more spoilt for choice. With properties continually being added, there’s always somewhere new and exciting for you to book your next break in!

South Devon Manager at Blueriver Cottages, Thomas Kyle, tells us: “With a growing number of Britons taking one or more UK breaks, we are encouraging customers to book their holiday as soon as possible to avoid missing out. We’re proud of the choice we can give our customers – whether they’re looking for a dog-friendly cottage by the coast, a contemporary apartment in Dartmouth or perhaps a large property to accommodate groups of friends or family in Brixham. Whatever size or type of holiday accommodation our guests are looking for, we can help!”

For more information call 01803 833682 or visit www.bluerivercottages.co.uk

Make every day National Simplicity Day

Did you know the 12th July was National Simplicity Day? Imagine a whole day set aside to streamline the challenges and commitments that you face everyday. We live in a world that’s becoming increasingly fast paced and often difficult to manage, which is why some people may start to use alcohol or other substances as an aid to help them cope.

At Regain Recovery, founder Gerri tells us: “We think every day should be National Simplicity Day. We support our clients and their families to evaluate their priorities and take the time to be mindful of the important things in their lives. Clients who use the opportunity to reflect on the challenges of daily living learn positive coping strategies to help them enjoy the good things in life, leaving the stress and complexities behind.”

The Regain Recovery team can help you to view each and every day as National Simplicity Day.

For more information call 01237 405200 or visit www.regainrecovery.com

GOURMET GOSSIP

Launching Ode True Ale

This month we’ll see the result of a hotly anticipated collaboration between two award-winning south Devon-based businesses, Red Rock Brewery and Ode True Food, with the launch of the new Ode True Ale. Brewed using Olicana hops and oats, this brand new brew will be available to buy in the award-winning ODE outlets, located in and around Shaldon, a stone’s throw from the brewery. Lewis Parkes, owner of Red Rock says: “We are two businesses who share the same values in terms of quality and sustainability so we’re really excited about this collaboration.”

Red Rock will be showcasing this ale, and a selection of handpicked beers, ciders and gins at their Red Rock-toberfest mini beer festival on 5th and 6th October.

For more information call 01626 879738 or visit www.redrockbrewery.co.uk

A taste of Thailand at the Riverbank Bar and Bistro

On Friday 7th September, why not join the team at the Riverbank Bar and Bistro for an authentic Thai experience? Suree Pickard – an extremely talented Thai chef – will be joining head chef and owner, James in the kitchen, so it’s sure to be a night to remember!

Classic Thai dishes will be served in the friendly restaurant, where the lovely Mayor and Mayoress of Bideford will also be in attendance! The main menu of the evening will be Thai, but this will also run alongside the kitchen team’s classic menu as well as the children’s menu, meaning there’ll be something to suit even the fussiest of appetites!

The evening will take place between 6pm and 9pm – be sure to book your place!

For more information call 01237 473399 or visit www.the-riverbank-bistro.co.uk

Feedback for the Fresh Coffee Company

Making great coffee is what the Fresh Coffee Company is all about and we’re not the only ones who love the Italian grind and friendly approach that these coffee connoisseurs have. Manager of the River Exe Café, Jane Walters tells us: “We’ve been using their products since April this year and are extremely pleased not just with the quality of the coffee but also their high standard of customer service. We also use their plant-based catering disposables which are made from renewable, lower carbon or recycled materials, and can all be composted with food waste. Not only are deliveries super quick and reliable but we have been given fantastic training and continual support in all aspects of our coffee offering, we couldn’t be more delighted!”

For more informationcall 07776 184141 or visit www.thefreshcoffeecompany.com

Le Pisani brings Mediterranean flair to Seaton

Known for its fresh, Mediterranean menu, fantastic Italian coffee and its comfortable, stylish surroundings, Le Pisani has been wowing diners since 2014 thanks to the combined expertise of Maltese chef Ray Pisani and Italian barista Franco Pisani – the eponymous founders who share the name by pure coincidence!

On the menu, Ray tells us: “We take pride in using fresh and local ingredients. We prepare each dish to be delicious and unique, taking your taste buds on a sun kissed, Mediterranean journey.”

With their flagship restaurant based in Axminster, in 2017 Le Pisani was given the opportunity to open a second restaurant, this time in the seaside town of Seaton. Opened with the help of Ray’s nephew, Darren, and his wife Rosabelle, who now run the restaurant, it’s already proven a resounding success, offering seaside visitors the chance to sate their sea-air appetites with Le Pisani’s delectable menu.

For more information call 01297 624338 or visit www.lepisani.com