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