News and views December 2018

A creative approach with Cornwall Zinc Roofing

We hear from Cornwall Zinc Roofing Director, Ross Bland, who explains the benefits of choosing zinc roofing for your home. He tells us: “As well as providing a contemporary finish, which looks great both with new builds and older buildings, zinc roofing also lasts between 80 and 100 years – as opposed to 50 years with usual concrete or tile roofs.” Few materials are as dynamically useful as zinc and it’s also a more environmentally friendly and natural product. Ross continues: “We work with architects, builders and clients all over Cornwall bringing a much desired creative approach with unique roofing and cladding that’s visually pleasing with an architectural finish.” So if you’re after a long-lasting and luxurious roofing solution then get in touch and discover the benefits of zinc roofing for yourself.

For more information call 01326 370951 or visit www.cornwallzincroofing.co.uk

Revamp your home with Tileworld

What better way to welcome in the New Year than by making the finishing touches to the home of your dreams? If you’re in need of some fresh flooring, then make sure to get in touch with the team at Tileworld who will be more than happy to help. With 35 years of trading under their belt, the Tileworld team are experts in their field and can provide advice on everything from the season’s latest trends to how best to fit your tiles. So, if you’d like to see in the New Year with a gorgeous new floor, be sure to contact the Tileworld team and discover the stunning collections on offer.

For more information call 01726 65434 or visit www.tileworldcornwall.co.uk

Celebrate in style at the Budock Vean Hotel

If Christmas sees you rushing around shopping, cooking and looking after everyone, then why not let someone else take the strain come the end of the year? Budock Vean Hotel by the Helford river has some last-minute availability for their fantastic New Year’s Eve celebration break. With top local band The Grace Notes providing the entertainment, you can welcome 2019 in style with a two-night stay including dinner and breakfast, plus the dress to impress NYE party itself. And if you want to add something extra special then why not indulge in a seasonal spa treatment? The in-house Natural Health Spa has just won Bronze at the Cornwall Tourism Awards and was a finalist in the Good Spa Awards, so it’s certainly worth checking out!

For more information call 01326 252100 or visit www.budockvean.co.uk

Give the gift of a Rick Stein experience

In Padstow, arguably the foodie capital of Cornwall, Rick Stein’s has been pivotal in shaping the local food scene, with locals and visitors alike returning time and time again to both the renowned Seafood Restaurant and, of course, Stein’s Fish & Chips. What’s more, Stein’s offers discerning foodies the perfect Padstow break, with luxurious accommodation benefitting from the expert interior touch of Jill Stein – wonderful for retreating to after a windswept day spent exploring the local coastline.

And, as if all that wasn’t enough, Rick Stein’s Cookery School offers you an experience you’ll never forget, whether you’re a budding chef looking to hone your skills, or a complete novice in the kitchen. With hands-on demonstrations using some of the best locally caught seafood, Rick’s talented chefs will guide you through a day of demos, cooking and dining.

In the run up to Christmas, if you’re on the lookout for the perfect Christmas gift, then you’ll be pleased to know that Rick Stein’s Gift Experience cards are available for all of this! For a delicious dining experience at any Rick Stein restaurant, from a pint of prawns at The Cornish Arms in St Merryn, to a delectable three-course meal at The Seafood Restaurant, gift cards are available from just £10.

Or, for a stay in one of Stein’s sumptuous rooms in Padstow, gift cards start at just £120. Combined with a Rick Stein’s Cookery School gift card – available from just £40 – a stay with Stein’s would make a fantastic Christmas gift for one of the foodies in your life.

For more information call 01841 532700 or visit www.rickstein.com

Weather proof your garden with ColourFence

After a tumultuous winter last year, many of us are finding ourselves battening down the hatches, both inside and out. One thing that such windy weather did make all-too clear was how out of shape some of our fences were, with a number falling victim to the harsh Atlantic gales that swept through the Duchy.

At ColourFence Cornwall, Olly Daglish explains: “We firmly believe that ColourFence is the best general garden fencing product on today’s market, designed to stand the test of not just time, but Cornwall’s harshest weather too, which is why we offer a 25 year guarantee. It’s surprisingly affordable too!”

The best part is that it’s not just a fantastic product that Olly and the team offer. They provide fantastic service too – just head to the website and you’ll find a fantastic blog with a myriad of maintenance tips for your garden, perfect whether or not you have a ColourFence installed!

For more information call 01840 537547 or visit www.colourfence.co.uk

Authentic sash windows from Collington & Company

Collington & Company’s sliding sash windows are a collection of high end, timber-effect windows that are available in a variety of materials, colours and finishes. They combine the low-maintenance and energy efficiency of modern materials with the classic design features of traditional windows. So, what makes this collection different to others? Firstly, the attention to detail is truly exceptional and what’s more, they are so authentic that the windows have been specified and approved in conservation areas nationwide where maintaining a traditional look is crucial. Collington & Company are also exclusive stockists of the Bygone Collection and every window can be made bespoke for individual clients, ensuring a perfect fit every time.

For more information call 01326 572599 or visit www.collingtons.com

Innoscent Cleaning takes UK by storm

It’s been a very exciting year for Innoscent Cleaning, having established themselves as a benchmark for excellence in eco-friendly cleaning services. Throughout the UK, their range of 100% natural, eco-friendly, biodegradable and vegan cleaning products
are really causing a stir! 

These products are so effective that Innoscent Cleaning now supply to a whole host of equally forward-thinking, eco-friendly businesses, from other cleaning companies, to plastic-free subscription box services, to yacht charter businesses.

At the heart of their success is their commitment to sustainability. They ‘refuse, reuse, repair and recycle’ where possible and steadfastly promote a waste-less, self-sustaining circular economy, even off-setting their carbon emissions with the Carbon Trust for anything they can’t take care of.

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly gift this Christmas (and who isn’t?), Innoscent Cleaning is offering ethically produced, reusable jute bag hampers containing their entire range of products, including the brand new ‘Down the Pan’ gel cleaner!

For more information visit www.innoscentcleaning.com or www.facebook.com/innoscentcleaning

The sky’s the limit with Air Drones South West

With more than 30 years in both military and civil aviation, Air Drones South West founder, Stephen MacNeil, started his business in 2016 to join the growing market for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) services.

Based in Cornwall but covering any location in the UK, Stephen uses drones to support estate agencies with aerial photographs, also assisting surveyors acting on behalf of those buying property.

Being able to see property from above really helps give a unique perspective on a potential new home, which is what makes Stephen’s service such a powerful marketing tool for property agents. What’s more, when you’re buying a property, completing as thorough a survey as possible is crucial to ensuring peace of mind before parting with your hard-earned cash. Offering some of the most competitive rates in the industry, if you could benefit from having eyes in the sky, why not give Stephen a call and discuss a quote?

For more information call 07899 947802 or visit www.airdronessouthwest.co.uk

Looking to replace your doors or windows this winter?

Based on Longrock Industrial Estate near Penzance, father and son company Longrock Windows offers a huge range of doors and windows that’s tailored to suit Cornwall’s unique environment, with a team that understands your need for style and unrivalled functionality.

This year has seen the introduction of new colour palettes and styles for composite doors, as well as an extension of the contemporary styles already available. Longrock Windows’ front and back composite doors combine the traditional charming appearance of timber with the high security multi-point locking of a modern uPVC door. After all, your doors are all that stand between your family and the outside world!

All of Longrock Windows’ window, door and conservatory installations are carried out to the most exacting standards by a trained team of fitters, who work to ensure the highest level of workmanship is achieved while keeping disruption at your property to a minimum.

For more information call 01736 313113 or visit www.longrockwindows.co.uk

Indigo Clothing pops the champagne

Having been trading for more than 16 years, Indigo Clothing Wadebridge is celebrating ten years under the ownership of Carole Bourne, a successful decade that she puts down to her loyal and regular customers from all over Cornwall, as well as the annual visiting trade.

This fantastic boutique has become a go-to destination for wedding guest outfits, holiday wardrobes and good-quality basics. Stocked labels include popular brands like Adini, Mistral, Capri, Intown, Emreco and Signature, and new brands and ranges are being added all the time. This year, these have included Rant and Rave, and Deck.

As you might expect, you’ll also find a range of accessories to complement any outfit. Carole, along with Sarah and Pauline, are always really helpful, and are extending the offer to all Cornwall Living readers of 10% off all fully priced items until the end of the year. Simply mention this article in store and the team will be happy to redeem your discount.

For more information call 01208 815887

Transform your house into a home

First For Floors has over 25 years’ experience in fitting all things flooring for both residential and commercial projects and are available to help with everything from the design stages right through to completion. We hear from General Manager, Stuart Dawes, who tells us: “The particular focus now seems to be a trend of luxury vinyl tiles, the likes of Amtico, Karndean and Moduleo to mention a few. Parquet Herringbone, borders and design strips are also popular – the possibilities are endless and our experienced in-house fitters can do it all.” From the smallest of spaces to the grandest of designs, First For Floors has got you covered so why not pop into the showroom where you can discuss the myriad of options with one of the company’s passionate sales advisors?

For more information call 01726 829836 or visit www.firstforfloors.com

Join the festivities in Penzance

Capture the fun of Christmas in Penzance, the go-to destination for those hard-to-find presents and the place to enjoy Christmas shopping and find your festive spirit. Boasting a high street brimming with independent shops, there are plenty of places to find inspiration!

There’s so much going on in Penzance this festive season. Enjoy Thursday Late Night Shopping on 13th and 20th December, and Sunday Christmas Shopping (11am until 4pm) on 16th and 23rd December, then take the kids to meet Santa in his grotto, 11pm until 4pm on 1st, 15th and 23rd December. Christmas markets are running between 11am and 5pm on 1st and 15th December, and you won’t want to miss the Christmas Lights Switch On, on 1st December from 4.30pm.

On 15th December from 4.30pm, witness a display of Christmas creativity with the Humphry Davy Lantern Parade, then on 21st December, don’t miss Montol Festival – the pagan celebration of the mid-winter solstice.

For more information visit www.lovepenzance.co.uk or www.penzancebid.co.uk

Success for Legacy at UK Property Awards

Prestige Cornish house builder, Legacy Properties, is celebrating success at the prestigious UK Property Awards.

Legacy won ‘Best Residential Development, Cornwall’ and received five stars for ‘Best Apartment’ for Fistral House, an exclusive collection of ten luxury apartments and flagship penthouses overlooking Fistral beach on north Cornwall’s iconic Atlantic coast.

The UK Property Awards celebrate the highest levels of achievement by companies operating in all sectors of the property trade.

With its trademark attention to detail, Legacy built Fistral House using only the highest-quality materials, maximising the indoor living space whilst celebrating the apartments’ exceptional coastal location.

Legacy Properties is a family-run developer which has been acquiring, designing and building luxury coastal homes in Cornwall for the last ten years.

For more information visit www.legacyproperties.co.uk

Christmas gift inspiration at Little piece of Cornwall

Little piece of Cornwall is a Cornish treasure trove brimming with beautiful keepsakes, including prints from local artists, stunning photography of the Duchy and, of course, our very own Cornwall Living calendar, which captures the beautiful and diverse landscapes across the county, from shimmering seascapes to magnificent, must-visit country estates.

Whether you’re searching for the perfect card, want to a memento to cement those fond holiday memories, or know somebody who holds Cornwall close to their heart, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Little piece of Cornwall. You can also subscribe to Cornwall Living – containing everything you need to know each month to lead your very own ultimate lifestyle by the sea.

For more information visit www.littlepieceofcornwall.co.uk

Plan your dream kitchen with Now Kitchens and Bathrooms

When planning your dream kitchen it’s important to prioritise how you use your space and ask yourself questions such as: is family dining a priority? Is an island or breakfast bar on the wish list? What about the latest innovations regarding storage, waste and recycling? An understanding of your style is also key to determining the overall look of your kitchen, whether you want to make a bold statement or go for a more classic look. And as with everything, it’s the finer details that can really make a difference, with the small touches of handles, doors, cabinets and splashbacks providing a unique finish. To take the stress out of the planning process, be sure to visit Now Kitchens and Bathrooms in Helston.

For more information call 01326 565522 or visit www.now-kitchens.co.uk

Couple smash £100k target for Cornish charity!

Dedicated fundraisers Bob and Marilyn Bosisto are celebrating, having hit their target of £100,000 for Cornwall Hospice Care. The couple have collected the funds via monthly charity auctions over the last seven years. The auctions have been held
at Penwithick every month and at Indian Queens twice a year.

They started collecting for Cornwall Hospice Care when a close friend died of cancer. In the first year they set themselves a £20,000 target. Bob tells us: “It was hard work, but we achieved it and we enjoyed ourselves, and with the support of many people we decided to raise £100,000.”

At a presentation at Mount Edgcumbe Hospice, St Austell, Paul Brinsley, Chief Executive of Cornwall Hospice Care told the couple: “Your support of our charity has been wonderful. Our focus is of course the care we provide at our hospices and in the community, and you’ve helped us to achieve this.”

For more information call 01726 66868 or visit www.cornwallhospicecare.co.uk

Keep those tails wagging this Christmas

Regardless of what we put in their bowls, our four legged friends always seem more interested in what he have on our plates! Unfortunately, human food can be extremely toxic to dogs. Slickers Doghouse in Padstow offer a few pointers to keep your dog healthy this Christmas.

Chocolate contains a chemical that’s toxic to dogs, causing vomiting and diarrhoea. It can also lead to muscle twitching, tremors, fitting and life threatening issues with their heart. Severe cases can be fatal, so be sure to keep chocolate out of your dog’s reach! Blue cheese is also dangerous and often causes dogs to develop tremors and seizures.

Grapes, sultanas, raisins and currants cause vomiting and diarrhoea too, and can cause kidney failure. Prompt treatment is crucial so if your dog eats any amount, contact your vet immediately.

Others to avoid are onions, garlic, chives and leeks, as they contain a harmful substance that can damage red blood cells and cause life threatening anaemia. Cooked bones are dangerous, being prone to splintering, and macadamia nuts can cause vomiting, tremors and lethargy. High fat foods are generally bad for dogs – as well as vomiting and diarrhoea, in the long term they can also lead to obesity, cardiovascular disease and pancreatitis.

It’s best to minimise risk by choosing good quality, low fat, grain and meat meal free food and treats all year round. Why not try some of Slickers Doghouse’s yummy food and treats, all of which are low fat and free of grain, meat meal and toxins. While you’re there, you’ll be tempted to spoil them for Christmas with a luxury Earthbound bed, perfect for an afternoon snooze!

For more information call 07917 005071 or visit www.slickersdoghouse.co.uk

Artisan jewellery with Cornwall at its heart

The roots of Silver Origins jewellery are firmly embedded in Cornwall’s untouched natural beauty, capturing the lifestyle and raw essence of the striking landscape in its designs. Each piece, in its own way, uses the iconic coastline, ocean waves and the stunning sub-tropical setting as an endless source of inspiration.

Exquisitely handcrafted in sterling silver, each stunning item is finished with subtle textures or dazzling semi-precious stones, which really enhance the spirit of the range.

The boutique collections can be found in store or online, with brand new pieces added on a weekly basis. However you choose to shop, you’ll find an extensive range of contemporary jewellery starting at just £16.95, from bold, on-trend statement pieces to delicate romantic and whimsical designs. Everything is beautifully gift boxed and exclusively designed in Cornwall. In short, it’s Christmas shopping made easy!

For more information visit www.silverorigins.com

Still looking for the perfect Christmas gift?

The Summerhouse Gallery is a beautiful, welcoming space showcasing the very best of Cornish art. Located just across the water from the iconic St Michael’s Mount in the historic market town of Marazion, the artists on display here vary from the very well established to the up and coming.

The team’s mission is to create the perfect place to discover paintings, jewellery, sculpture and glass in a relaxed manner. The beauty of art is in its ability to connect, and this is the ethos that sits at the core of the Summerhouse Gallery.

To find a bit of magic this festive season, why not pay the Summerhouse Gallery a visit and discover a beautiful, one-of-a-kind gift for that special someone? There’s also a gift-wrapping service available, perfect for those who lack time (or wrapping skill!).

For more information call 01736 711400 or visit www.summerhousegallery.co.uk

Celebrating 15 years of sustainable architecture

15 years ago ARCO2 set out to create and provide the most sustainable properties in the region and has won many prestigious local, national and international awards along the way thanks to their eco-conscious and innovative approach to architecture. We hear from Director Ian Armstrong who tells us: “Sustainability forms the heart and soul of everything
we do.”

With a talented team of ten employees, ARCO2 specialises in low energy, coastal houses, holiday homes and replacement dwellings. Experts in their field, the team produce beautiful eco-friendly buildings based upon the Passive House principles, in fact there aren’t many places in Cornwall you can visit without coming across one of their award-winning designs.

The imaginative, creative and energetic team are passionate about high quality, low energy design and pride themselves on delivering a friendly and professional service with a difference. In 2016 they built on their success by introducing their own contracting firm, ADD Sustainable Construction, in order to provide a relaxed and stress free service from concept to completion.

ARCO2’s continued success is not just down to them, it’s down to their clients, past and present; the best projects have the best clients and ARCO2 have been fortunate to work with like-minded clients, helping them turn their dreams into reality. With the holidays fast approaching, it couldn’t be a better time to plan your dream project, so why not get in touch with ARCO2 and see how they can help you realise your dream home too.

For more information call 01208 72100 or visit www.arco2.co.uk

Don’t miss Kurt Jackson’s latest exhibition

Perched in the open ocean and battered by the elements, the Isles of Scilly remain a pristine refuge from the relentless pace of modern life. In his latest exhibition, renowned artist Kurt Jackson explores the islands’ quiet wildness through a spectacular display of paintings, sculpture, jewellery and etchings. The wild drama of this weather-beaten archipelago is captured wonderfully, which Kurt puts down to the countless hours spent braving the elements on his many trips to Scilly.

The exhibition sits alongside information from the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust and the RSPB, who together work to preserve the islands’ unique habitats and protect the rare species that call them home.

Open Wednesday to Saturday from 21st December until 5th January, this is your penultimate chance to see Kurt Jackson’s latest acclaimed exhibition and take it from us – it’s not one to be missed.

For more information and opening times, call 01736 787638 or visit www.jacksonfoundationgallery.com

No more broken bottles thanks to Flexi-Hex!

From innovative Cornish brothers Will and Sam Boex, founders of Flexi-Hex packaging, comes a beacon in the dark for those looking to safely transport fragile and often-costly tipples.

Sam tells us: “Flexi-Hex was originally created to protect surf boards in transit, using a biodegradable, cost-effective and more reliable alternative to single use plastic.” But it soon became apparent that this revolutionary new product had potential well beyond the surf industry!

Hannah Lamiroy, founder of Tinkture, tells us: “Our organic Rose Gin is handcrafted and bottled in old-fashioned glass chemistry bottles, which were proving difficult to package securely. We’re so excited to be working with Flexi-Hex, as they have given us the peace of mind to know that when our gin is delivered, it will not only be undamaged, but wrapped in the most original and beautiful packaging!”

For more information visit www.flexi-hex.com