Take me back ‘ome

Cast your minds back to the glittering seventies when flamboyant outfits, platform soled-boots and dodgy haircuts meant glam rock was as much a fashion statement as it was a musical phenomenon. Famed for his pudding bowl haircut and a fashion sense that would today leave Lady Gaga in a state of shock is Dave Hill, one quarter of the foot stomping Slade.

Dave remembers growing up on a council estate in Wolverhampton, strumming the first guitar he bought for seven pounds fifty and meeting up at the local youth centre to ‘make a row’. But at the tender age of eight Dave discovered he wasn’t born and bred in the Midlands at all, life for him actually started in Devon – and in a castle no less!

“The war was over, Mum was pregnant with me and Dad had been offered a mechanics job in a village near Kingsbridge. It sounds quite fantastic really being born in a castle, but it was a maternity ward. Plymouth Hospital had been badly bombed and so Flete House owned by Lord Mildmay was opened up for women to have their children. I went back to see it a few years ago with Don Powell, my drummer, my wife and his wife. It was such an experience to go and see such a wonderful place and meet some charming people.”

Flete House where Dave was born

So it seems Devon is quite close to your heart. I believe it’s actually where Slade played some of its earliest gigs?

“Yes that’s right. It would take us all night to get there. It was before the days of motorways and the road to Torquay was like the road to Cairo! It was like a Bob Hope and Bing Crosby film on the road to somewhere. We used to stay at the Beverley Caravan Campsite and go down every night and play the 400 Ballroom. I remember The Tremeloes who were number one in the charts were playing there and they said to us ‘Do you mind if you go on after us?’ and this is The Tremeloes! And we’re going, ‘What! We go on after you!? But you’re number one in the charts!’ I think they must have had somewhere else to be!

In the seventies Slade scored an incredible 17 consecutive Top 20 hits, six No.1 smash hits and sold more singles in that decade than any other group. What was the highlight for you?

“Our first number one. Like most bands about to have success, we had no money and were all still living with our parents. We’d had a hit with ‘Get Down Get With It’, which was our first hit but the next one ‘Coz I Luv You’ just took off!  I remember standing on the top of the Mander Centre in Wolverhampton pointing to the sky for a photograph with the Express and Star saying ‘They’ve hit number one!’

I must ask, who came up with all the misspellings of your songs?

“That was me ‘cause I couldn’t spell! It used to really annoy the education people because they said we were teaching kids to misspell.”

One song you’ll always be known for is Merry Xmas Everybody, almost forty years on do you love it or hate it?

“Oh no I love it! You’ve got to love something that does so much for people like that song. It was released in 1973 when there were a lot of strikes. Britain was on a low and it lifted the spirits of the country. And no one wrote Christmas rock songs, it was all jingle bells in those days. The thing is you’ll never get forgotten, and I can go to anybody’s house in December!”

Slade’s original line-up has changed slightly and you’ve lost front man Noddy Holder, how different, if at all is your sound today?

“I think you’ll find it very close. Nobody replaces Nod, nobody could replace any of us. We can do all the old songs and we can do them well. The music lives on and as long as you have a respect for what you do. I wouldn’t do it if I wasn’t good enough. As a guitarist hopefully you get better as the years go by and I still have that fire and Don is a great drummer, a unique drummer and it would be a shame not to be doing that.”

Whether it’s original Slade fans coming to see you and reliving their youth or new and younger fans, your music has such a feel good factor.

“People will say to you, ‘thanks for making my youth great’ and that’s a good line.

The way we wrote, love songs or rock songs, they were uplifting, lyrically interesting and melodies you remember.  There’s a line in a Shirley Bassey song and she sings ‘I bought a ticket for a lifetime’ and that’s what I felt I did buy. I bought into it for the whole of my life until I’m unable to do it. It’s not about the fame for me, it’s about the people. It’s about what you do and the difference you make. 

FIGURING OUT FORENSIC ACCOUNTANCY

It is no secret that the world of accountancy is often linked to the words ‘dull and boring’. Forensic accountancy however, whilst admittedly slightly less interesting than ‘CSI-style’ investigations, is an unusual, yet important service in today’s society.

The forensic accountancy team at Haines Watts in Exeter comprises qualified Chartered Accountants accredited by the Academy of Experts with considerable experience in undertaking a wide range of forensic accounting, expert witness and dispute resolution engagements.

You never know when you might need a forensic accountant, but if you do Haines Watts are the local experts. “Many people are not aware forensic accountants exist or fully understand the service we provide. We may assist in any situation where a financial discrepancy has arisen, or where there is a need for the application of specialist numerical or analytical skills.” says Caroline Thomas, head of forensic accountancy in the Exeter Haines Watts office.

Divorce:

Consider a relationship breakdown where there is a need to untangle the family finances, including identification of tax implications on property transactions. This is particularly important where separation occurs later in a marriage and accumulated wealth is significant or when a family business or valuable property is involved.

Personal injury:

Haines Watts can help in the assessment of loss in PI cases, particularly involving self-employed individuals or where injury is catastrophic resulting in severe physical injury, mental disability or death.

Fraud and misconduct:

The team can also assist a business where there is suspicion of fraud and can offer a review of the veracity of internal controls to prevent future irregularities.

To find out how we can help your business call Haines Watts accountants on:  0845 603 7020 or visit:

www.hwca.com/exeter’

STUNNING AND CREATIVE INTERIOR DESIGN IS A BREATH OF FRESH AIR FOR CITY BUSINESS PARK

Award winning Architects Design Group (ADG) based in Plymouth has been appointed for the design and delivery of the internal office fit-out for the prestigious new ‘Oxygen House’ HQ for ATASS on Exeter Business Park.  One of the largest office blocks built in the City for 5 years it also promises to be the most eco-friendly building.

ADG is more than just design.  Although architecture will always be at the heart of what they do they also offer a full range of services to complement the core practice including project management, conservation, interior and graphic design. From inception to completion, ADG can assemble a team for any project due to their breadth of experience.  The architectural group has created buildings and spaces for more than 20 years, combining commercial awareness with practical experience to add value for clients regardless of size or scope. A changing market demands a flexible response and ADG design in the present; anticipate the future and question the norm to deliver sustainable design solutions…

Salt Quay, Foot Anstey, Plymouth

The Gateway to Exeter:

A superb landscaped environment of over 100 acres in an elevated position with excellent visibility and support facilities, Exeter Business Park is widely acknowledged as the prime business park for the City and the wider Devon region.  It has attracted a wide range of occupiers including the MET Office, EDF Energy, Ashfords Solicitors and HSBC. 

Oxygen, West Upper

Project Oxygen:

Currently only a hole in the ground, Oxygen House will form part of a new development which will be the most significant ever to take place in Exeter providing approximately. 20,000 sq ft of office accommodation arranged over three floors with its own private access and entrance.  It promises to create an innovative and sustainable development that is both inspirational and stimulating.  There has been a consistent emphasis upon creating a successful Eco-friendly development ranging from the reduction of waste and emissions to the promotion of biodiversity recycling and a green travel plan.  Oxygen House will have its own micro electricity generation on site in the form of photovoltaic cells on the brise soleil that also act as solar shading for the building.  Other innovative features include the use of intelligent lighting systems, air source heat pumps and automatic windows to allow the thermal mass of the building to cool at night.

Interior Design:

Watergate Bay

Head of ADG Interiors Juliet Sluce takes the client from a bare shell to the completed interior, fully furnished and accessorised with marketing material if required.  “Whatever your budget, big or small, we will work with you to achieve the full potential of the project.  We aim to inject creativity into every scheme and pride ourselves on the clever use of incorporating existing features and re-cycling materials wherever possible. Also paint and colour can really lift a scheme so it does not need to be expensive” says Juliet.

Juliet worked closely with ADG’s Senior Architectural Designer Dale Beeson to create a workable and practical yet innovative interior scheme for Oxygen House based on the client’s aspirations. Dale assisted Juliet in helping to divide the space and also designed a spectacular bespoke staircase which is to be a key part of the interior. 

The exterior scheme of Project Oxygen includes cycle paths, landscaped grounds, a five-a-side pitch and even the possibility of a vineyard!   The creative Interior scheme designed by Juliet aims to continue this theme with the use of sustainable, natural materials sourced from local suppliers where possible.   This includes the use of innovative flooring materials such as a vinyl-type floor with natural components; carpets with high natural fibre content and BREEAM A rating (The Environmental Assessment Method for Buildings Around the World).  FSC timber floors (The Forest Stewardship Council) will be utilised and the design team is investigating the use of recycled timber flooring in a commercial space as a possibility.  The colours and finishes chosen are fresh and contemporary with a bold use of modern graphics and images as a means of decorating walls and partitions. 

The ADG team has worked closely with Aecom, the Mechanical & Electrical Engineers, to incorporate a clever use of creative mood lighting in the Atrium space which will transform the building at night into a stunning feature which should prove to be a highly visible and iconic local landmark.

Wellbeing and Lifestyle:

The client’s aspiration was a clear commitment to creating a place to work that is fit for business and fit for people. Staff sports facilities include a contemporary gymnasium and outdoor activities on campus. All internal wellbeing break-out areas include physically active games, pool table, table football, air hockey and darts in order to create a relaxing yet stimulating environment away from the desk.  It will be company policy that hot drinks are taken together in the new eatery area in order to encourage regular breaks away from the computer screens and social interaction with colleagues.  A Café provision with in-house cooking encourages communal mealtimes with an emphasis on healthy eating.  The Café area and break-out space open on to the spectacular entrance atrium, providing facilities for holding corporate and staff entertainment events for up to 200 people. 

ADG Interiors Services:

-    Concept design and presentation boards

-       Perspectives sketches

-       Colour sample boards

-       Floor plans

-       Elevations and section drawings

-       Working detail drawings

-       Specifications

-       Furniture design

-       Product design

ADG received the Offsite Construction Magazine Award for ‘Best Small Scheme and Self Build Project‘for the stunning Cardinal House in Mayfair London.

The innovative build consisted of a pre-fabricated modular shell that was built off-site in several sections and craned up to its final resting position creating a new penthouse over the course of a weekend.

Living area, Cardinal House, London

Once at the top of an existing mixed-use building, the fit-out was then completed with a bespoke interior.  The predominant feature of the apartment is the living area that spans the full width of the building with roof-top panorama where privacy can be created with sliding white panels instead of blinds. This space accommodates an Italian kitchen with curved bar front for entertaining and concealed storage for TV screen and music system. The hallway is brought to life with the use of textured timber door fronts that were bespoke from the Timbmet range of textured timbers. 

An unusual feature en route to the master bedroom is the leather floor tiles on the floor of the dressing room area. The bedroom itself benefits from the drama of a double height window configuration and remote control feature vertical blinds from the Silent Gliss range.

Bedroom, Cardinal House, London

By Royal Appointment: Interview with Darren Baker

Visiting Triton Galleries in Torquay to showcase his never seen before originals, Darren Baker is about to embark upon the biggest commission of his career to date.  Darren is due to paint HRH, The Queen this autumn to commemorate her 85th Birthday in association with The Royal British Legion celebrating 95 years to be unveiled in May 2011. We caught up with him to find out what it's like being one of Britain's most celebrated figurative artists and how he feels about painting the country's most recognised face. 

Darren Baker at Triton Galleries, Torquay

At the tender age of four, artist Darren Baker can vividly remember people crowding around him as he sketched Big Ben... it was from that moment on that he has been fascinated by detail.

To date, 34 year old Darren has painted notable public figures such as Prince Charles and former Prime Minister Tony Blair which hang in St. James’s Palace and 10 Downing Street respectively. He’s collected numerous coveted awards including best artist at the Fine Art Trade Guild ceremony in London, the Garrick prize, Christies and specially selected more recently by Senior Royal Academician to exhibit at the ING Discerning Eye Exhibition.

When asked if he’s always wanted to be an artist, without hesitation Darren replies “I’ve never thought about being anything else. I was just born an artist.” Originally from Bradford, he explains how his talent doesn’t stem from anyone else in the family, “I’m just a freak of nature really.” Now living in the Cotswolds, Darren shares a character cottage with his wife Abigail and their 13-month-old Pug puppy called Albert, specially bred for them by an art lover as a wedding present. Describing the area as a ‘beautiful part of the world’ Darren is currently renovating his home studio to create his perfect working environment.  At the age of just 23 Darren was appointed official artist for the Professional Footballers Association painting such famous faces as the late great George Best, Stephen Gerrard and Ruud van Nistelrooy.

How did you get involved with the PFA?

I wrote a letter to the Chief Executive Gordon Taylor saying how much I like football and asked whether they’d like to commission me to do some artwork. They loved the idea and the rest is history!

And when you were first starting out you received a grant from the Princes Trust?

Yes, after I graduated they introduced me to a business mentor who helped in putting my name forward for various fairs, getting me networking and raising my profile as an artist. I owe them a great debt.”

You’re about to follow in the footsteps of artists like Rolf Harris and Lucien Freud.  Painting the Queen is in celebration of her 85th birthday, how did this come about?

I was on tour about four years ago at The Windsor Horse Show. I’d been commissioned by the British Legion and when they saw my work they put my name forward.

Painting such a well-known and recognised face has proven rather controversial in the past with artist’s interpretations dividing critics. It must be rather daunting, how are you planning to approach the piece?

Well, once I’ve had the sitting I’ll have a better idea of how I feel about painting the Queen and what my take on her will be, so that will affect the style and size of the portrait.  That’s a kind of pivotal moment really. I might introduce some poppies as a nod to the Legion.

What medium will you be working in and why?

The portrait will be in oil. I just love the versatility of it and the colours you can create and the textures. It takes longer but the results are worth it.  Like anything, good things come to those who wait!

Darren says his true admiration in the art world is for the grand masters including Rembrandt and Vemeer, admitting he would love to paint the Queen astride a horse like traditional Royal portraiture.

In addition you are working in association with Lloyds Private Banking who have commissioned you to create portraits of various athletes leading up to a big exhibition in 2012 as part of their Olympic programme.    

There are quite a few things in the pipeline which I can’t mention at the moment but it is going to be a really exciting year.

Embarking on perhaps the most prestigious commission of his career to date, he casts his mind back fondly to the first ever paid commission when his Godmother gave him £25 to paint her cottage in Huddersfield. The price of that painting today would no doubt have extra zeros added with most of his works starting from £1,000.  Ever modest and humble about his work, the pieces closest to Darren’s heart are those of sentimental value including those of his family and one of his personal favourites; the church window at St. Bartholomew’s in Meltham which brings back fond memories of visits as a boy. 

www.tritongalleries.co.uk

A FRUITFUL DAY LEARNING HOW TO GET FROM VINE TO WINE!

Glen King spends a fruitful day learning about the art of getting from vine to wine..

A self professed wine lover (well I have had a lot of practice), I jumped at the chance to take part in an introductory wine course at the Devon Wine School in Cheriton Fitzpaine identified by Jonathan Ray of the Daily Telegraph as one of the top 10 places in the UK to learn more about wine. 

My fellow wannabe Sommeliers and I were in the capable hands of Alastair Peebles one of only 295 Masters of Wine in the World.  With over 40 years in the industry as a former director of the prestigious Wine Merchants Berry Bros & Rudd, Alastair has also made films for some of the world’s top wine producers.  With wife Carol, a professional cook, he now operates the only residential Wine School in the UK from a delightful 17th century farmhouse set in 3 acres of beautiful Devon countryside.  The group of ten on the day included couples who had travelled from as far afield as Durham and Berkshire who took advantage of the stunning 5* Gold Award winning accommodation on offer.

This one day course is perfect for someone interested in wine who wants to learn how to taste and enjoy it whilst gaining useful knowledge as to why a wine tastes as it does and what to look for when faced with a daunting row of bottles on the supermarket shelf.  Held in the relaxing and contemporary dining room, from the moment you arrive you are met with a warm welcome by the hosts and their adorable dogs, Dudley and Lilly.  After an introduction by Alastair, workbooks were handed out whilst Carol delivered a bowl of delicious, hot freshly baked homemade bread sticks to clear the palate between tastings. 

The programme uses the WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) systematic approach to Tasting Wine©.  In addition, Alastair is an Approved Programme Provider for the Wine & Spirit Education Trust’s Foundation (WSET) training in Intermediate and Advanced Level Courses offering in-house and distance learning and specially tailored external courses for pubs, restaurants and hotels.

Alastair is not your traditional “chalk and talk” teacher as he actively encourages audience participation.  “Never think a question is stupid or be afraid to stick your neck out and be wrong, it is the only way to learn.” Alastair informed us. “I hate it when some Sommeliers talk down to their customers.  There is no room for pretention”.

Our programme included the tasting technique; factors influencing the style of wine; key white and black grape varieties; New World versus Old Word sparkling and sweet wines and food and wine matching.  The average retail price of each wine tasted was £14 per bottle although we did sample a rather fine Premier Cru Burgundy from Beaune, retailing at £24.98.  Cru is French for growth and it is all about location, location, location of the vines, Alastair informed us.  The climate is a key factor to the wine industry and the type of wine produced is due to whether it is grown in a cool, moderate or hot location.  We learned that crisp dry whites with high acidity are generally produced on the cooler coastal regions with more robust wines made from grapes grown inland. 

The day is made up of a series of blind tastings and Alastair invited us to utilise all of our senses to fully enjoy the experience.  Firstly we tilted the glass against a white background to check the clarity and intensity of colour and then swirled the wine to release the bouquet, burying our noses deep into the glass to inhale the heady aromas.  Naturally our Master of Wine is an expert at twirling the wine, however, as a novice I highly recommend engaging the base of the glass with the tablecloth as you swirl to avoid spillage!  We each got very enthusiastic feeling like real wine experts as we detected a diversity of smells ranging from delicate floral perfume to petrol, smoke and spice.  Next we moved on to the palate and the tasting technique (my favourite part), where we were actively encouraged to make loud slurping noises.  Utilising the taste buds on the tongue we experienced sweet, sour, salty and bitter elements.  We discovered that wines with high acidity dried out the side of the tongue leaving your mouth watering which sounds like an oxymoron but is a fact.  Naturally in order to write this article coherently I restrained from imbibing all of the 17 varieties of wine by utilising my spittoon; it did help my resolve when Alastair informed us that there are no taste buds in the throat.  My new found drinking pals and I were keen to out-shout each other with descriptions of the flavours we could detect, becoming more adventurous as our confidence grew throughout the day.  This included ‘manure’ which sounds unattractive but certain reds like Burgundies can take on a rustic farmyard smell and taste. 

At 2 pm we adjourned to the homely farmhouse kitchen for lunch where Carol had served a wonderful repast of spicy lentil soup, homemade breads, home cooked ham, fabulous salads, and a wonderful spinach roulade with prawns followed by a selection of cheese accompanied, naturally, with a choice of wine. It was a great way to get to know the rest of the group socially which included two couples who had travelled from Surrey to celebrate a Birthday.  Peter Merrett from nearby Sandford had been given the course as a Christmas present from his wife who heard Alastair being interviewed by BBC Radio Devon’s Judi Spiers.  Local wine merchant Rory Stapleton who owns the Jolly Vintner in Tiverton had recommended the course to his brother-in-law Richard Pettinger who was particularly enthusiastic about the day.

Further blind wine tastings followed with each of us encapsulated by Alastair’s enthusiasm and expertise which instilled a thirst for knowledge.  Mid afternoon we enjoyed a welcome tea break and a slice of Carol’s delicious homemade lemon drizzle cake which would have complemented the Sauternes from Bordeaux we tried later in the day; a sweet dessert wine with a deep gold and bright clarity with overtones of Seville marmalade and honey which was not cloying; just heavenly.  Eat your heart out Jilly Goolden! 

The day concluded at 5.30 pm with a celebratory glass of fizz and a certificate. The general consensus was that it was a unique and unmissable experience and we were all keen to put our new found knowledge into practice and to really take the time to appreciate good wine.

For full details of courses and wine tastings, lunches and dinners offered by The Devon Wine School contact: 01363 866742 - www.devonwineschool.co.uk

Huish Episcopi Academy's Bright New Future

Rachel Britt and Roger Madge of Huish Episcopi Academy a specialist college for Science, Languages and Applied Learning in Langport talk to Glen King Marketing about the bright future for this award winning college ....

It is a new era and a very exciting time for Huish Episcopi in Langport as the school can now offer their pupils a chance to continue their further education studies in a brand new cutting edge designed £4.5 million sixth form facility.

The new autumn term welcomed 6^th formers for the first time a chance to explore the newly completed building.  A multi-functional auditorium, contemporary café, high-tech computer suites and vibrant colour scheme are just some of the innovative design features.  And the response from the students was very positive. 

Laura Thornton

Laura Thornton is a year 12 student studying Maths, English Literature, History and Spanish, she said, “It was really exciting to come into such a modern building . The best thing is the size of the classes, because they are smaller you can really concentrate and get one-to-one tutoring.”

Roger Madge, Head of Huish Sixth says, “The completion of Huish Sixth following 5 years of hard work on the project has given the entire school a new lease of life. There is a hub of excitement amongst the students and staff. Now that we have the facilities available we can really encourage a number of pioneering projects that have until now only been talked about for the future. In addition we are looking to establish strong relationships with local businesses to offer them opportunities such as using our conferencing facilities. We also want members of the local community to be fully involved and have the opportunity to benefit from the new development.  It has so much to offer and we want to share it with as many people as possible. We’re hoping to run art exhibitions and start-up a film club in the fantastic new auditorium as well as other community based projects.”

From left: Head of Husih Episcopi Graham Roff, Head of Governors David Bell, David Heath MP and Head of Huish Sixth Roger Madge

And it’s a double celebration as the school which is rated outstanding by Ofsted is one of the first in the country to attain *Academy status under the new coalition Government.   Following careful consideration by a panel of staff and governors this month the final seal of approval was given which means the school has freedom from local authority  and will be able to make changes that can maximise the potential of students at the Academy.

One area that will no doubt gain increased focus is the language department following its recent accreditation in the form of ‘The International School Award (ISA)’. This recognises the school’s commitment to embedding a global dimension into the curriculum through projects that collaborate with pupils in other European countries such as Spain and Sweden.   International Dimension Co-ordinator Rachel Britt says, “It is wonderful to receive this award in recognition of all our efforts to ensure our pupils are global citizens and realise the world is on their doorstep.  We feel it is essential that pupils take advantage of the opportunities available to link with their peers in countries all over the world to teach each other, share ideas and gain an insight into the culture of that country.” 

The world just got smaller with the use of webcams and Skype allowing pupils to immerse themselves in other cultures from day-to-day as well as through school study trips to Italy, France and Spain to increase awareness of local environmental schemes and implementing such schemes via the schools ‘Not Stupid’ campaign. Pupils are also encouraged to share their work with students in countries as far flung as Chile, New Zealand and India.

 www.huishepiscopi.net

Glen King discovers innovative fashion to transcend into the new season in style…

It’s that transitional time of year when the days are getting a little chilly but we’re not yet fully into heavy duty winter clothing.  If you don‘t want to be seen in the same clothes as everyone else particularly for that special occasion, ditch the High Street and head towards quirky Gandy Street in Exeter where you will find the hottest designers at independent Iris Boutique. 

Run by mother and daughter team Marion and Nichola Harbinson The name ‘Iris’ originates from beloved mother and grandmother who was sadly lost to cancer. 

Iris Boutique has gained a loyal following by providing the latest collections at affordable prices coupled with a very personal and enjoyable shopping experience.  As soon as you step into the gorgeously intimate interior of this two –storey boutique, you are welcomed with warm and friendly smiles from the small but dedicated team.

Nichola and Marion

Marion and Nichola’s retail experience means they are in tune with their customers’ needs and as this develops their buying is getting more exciting each season. 

This season expect to see a collection of prints and textures mixed with natural and sophisticated deep burgundies, earthy taupe’s, electric blues, midnights and oiled blacks. When buying they tend to purchase in small capsules, starting with their core basics  such as a good fit quality trouser, neutral knit cardi, basic layering tops building within colour ways so the collection mixes and matches together, then adding  highlight pieces such as  unique and interesting prints and textures and dresses- everyone needs a chic little number.   They find this style of buying works well for them but also for their customer.  “The clothes work beautifully together and so it is easier for our customers to put together an outfit” says Nichola.

Marion and Nichola stock many contemporary brands from across Europe including; Turnover, Stills from Holland, Lauren Vidal from Paris, Part Two and Noa Noa from Denmark, Jonny Q Jeans from Italy and new this season Elisa Cavelletti a sophisticated and funky Italian line with intricate details of beautiful buttons, charms, lace work and ruffles in an array of stunning colours blended with mixed denims; fabulous signature white blouses showcase the collection of dresses, waistcoats, jackets and  knits.

From Lauren Vidal you will find fabulous print net and jersey dresses, skirts, boleros, chunky knit cardis and wraps each beautifully layered and combined to create stunning wedding outfits or worn separately to add an individual twist to easy jean wear or velvets from Jonny Q.   To the other extreme they have strong electric blue tops and giletts set against midnights and oiled black denims, with interesting details such as sophisticated studded leather jackets and over the knee boots from Unisa brilliantly on trend for this season.  The gillet is the perfect outer wear for autumn and those milder winter days.  When the weather turns more wintery use as a mid layer to insulate against the cold and still be in hot style.

 

Creating a core wardrobe needn’t be boring but needs a realistic understanding of who you are and how you lead your life. 

 Focus on clothes that:

- Give you a maximum amount of wear eg jeans, trousers or skirts, tops, knitwear and outerwear. 

- Are smart enough for work but casual enough for private life

- Layer without creating bulk

·         - Are transitional pieces that cover more than one season

·         - Combine well together.

Keep fabrics plain, patterns and stripes reduce the number of times a garment can be paired. It is best to add interest with accessories e.g. interesting jewellery and scarves that finish and set the style.  Once a core capsule has been achieved exciting, unique prints and textured highlight pieces can be added. 

Jumper and jersey dresses can be layered over jeggings and  boots dressed down with chunky knit outwear and scarves for day and transformed into evening by replacing these with tights, heels, neat little jackets and  fabulous statement jewellery.  Marion said’ In essence our outfits and clothes can be put together in any way that is suitable for your occasion.’

Marion a water colour artist has an instinctive eye for colour and form, Dartmoor and the surround countryside has always been an inspirational place to her.  Nichola studied fashion and textiles at Exeter collage followed by Ba Hons in Creative textile design at the University of Huddersfield.  Exeter has always captured Nichola’s heart with its relaxed, cosmopolitan atmosphere, beautiful Cathedral, the calming tranquillity of Exeter Quay, and the unique and intriguing Gandy Street where Iris Boutique is located .

           

CARING IN THE COMMUNITY IS A REAL HOME FROM HOME

Glen King meets the team at Hendford Care Home with Nursing - the first new care facility for the 21^st century based in Yeovil….

Developed on the former Milk Marketing Board site at Hendford Hill on behalf of health care providers Aurora Care Limited, Hendford Care Home opened in spring this year.  Offering seven communal spaces and forty beds, the home provides much needed nursing, palliative and dementia care to the elderly population of South Somerset with 24 hour registered nursing staffing provided by Matron Sue Aldworth and her dedicated team.  “Our aim is to create a state-of-the-art care facility providing hotel standards coupled with personal care and specialist expertise.  We have taken on highly qualified staff with the relevant experience and caring values which are very important” says Sue.

Aurora Care also operates Hurst Manor Nursing Home based in Martock.  This won ‘The Caring Business Pinder Award for Best Development’ which aims to promote and recognise the very best developments in all types of care related property and this winning formula has been adopted at Hendford.  Michael Lawson managing director of Aurora Care accompanied by Matt his hearing dog is my guide for the day.  First stop is one of the individually interior designed en-suite bedrooms furnished with domestic lighting and pine furniture.   Residents are actively encouraged to make the accommodation their own, including the knocking of holes in the walls to put up mirrors, pictures and photographs from home.  To make it even more homely they have the option to replace some or all of the furniture with their own. “Our residents enjoy a home from home atmosphere with the knowledge that they have expert and friendly staff on hand for all their needs, physically, mentally and emotionally but without the clinical environment.”

In the spacious and tastefully designed lounge we are greeted with laughter and high spirits as the residents enjoy a fun game of giant dice organised by Chris Hewlett the resident activities manager. Michael says “There are no set visiting hours as it is important that they invite friends and relatives over, after all it is their home and we want them to feel happy, comfortable and enjoy living here”

The delicious aroma of food draws us to the kitchen boasting cutting edge equipment.  Here top chef Manager Dave Duggan serves home cooked cuisine to restaurant standards. A three course lunch is the main meal of the day with complimentary wine, bottled water and soft drinks served in one of the three dining rooms or in the resident’s room.  After lunch they can do as little or as much as they wish; sitting with friends in the spacious dayroom, resting or taking a walk in the garden which has raised beds for the keen gardeners, joining in crafts and hobby classes such as flower arranging or listening to talks on bee-keeping or vintage motorcycles.  “We have even had owls brought in and later this year we are expecting a donkey” says Michael.  There are also regular outings in the minibus with the most popular days out at West Bay and the bluebell woods at Batcombe Down.

Next stop is a designated leisure room enjoying a ‘No TV policy’ providing both residents and relatives access to computers and a library.  There is also a hair and beauty salon utilised by a visiting hairdresser and beauty therapist with many treatments including aromatherapy and reflexology.  Michael says, “In addition to providing specialist palliative care and general nursing care we want to enhance the quality of lifestyle for our residents.”

www.hendfordcarehome.co.uk