Area 2
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net
DESIGN EDITOR
Dylan Thain editor@oracle.uk.net
07365610463
SALES MANAGERS
Tyler Cussen sales@oracle.uk.net
07535417264
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Dylan Thain
PHOTOGRAPHY
Front Cover -Pixabay | Pexels | Freepik
SISTER MAGAZINE
OM Plymouth www.omplymouthmagazine.co.uk
April arrives with a lighter touch, as Plymouth fully embraces the rhythm of spring. The days stretch further into the evening, blossoms begin to brighten our streets and gardens, and there’s a renewed sense of life across the city. It’s a month that invites us outdoors — to reconnect with nature, our community, and the simple pleasures that come with the changing season.
This edition captures that vibrant, feel-good energy. With National Pet Month upon us, we’re celebrating the animals that bring so much joy to our lives, alongside a special double-page feature from Cornflower Kitchens and bathroomss, showcasing inspiring spaces at the heart of the home. We also take a closer look at the timeless charm and character of Boringdon Hall, exploring what makes it such a standout destination here in the South West.
As always, I’d love to hear from you. Your thoughts, stories and suggestions help shape this magazine and keep it closely connected to the people and places that make Plymouth special. You can reach me at [editor@oracle.uk.net ] and I’ll always do my best to respond.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADVERTISE FOR AS LITTLE AS £60.00 A MONTH IN THE PLYMPTON COMMUNITY MAGAZINE please call sales on 01752 691007 plympton@oracle.uk.net
Copyright © 2026 The Plympton Community Magazine. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publisher. We have done our utmost to ensure that all the content is correct and accurate at the time of print, but we emphasise that Oracle Publications accepts no responsibility for any mistakes or omissions in this publication. All opinions expressed in The Plympton Magazine are that of the individual contributor and are not always shared by the publication.
n today’s homes, kitchens and bathrooms have become far more than purely practical spaces. They are places of comfort, routine, and personal expression, shaping how people begin and end each day. Cornflower Kitchens & Bathrooms continues to lead this evolution, offering a comprehensive design, supply, and installation service across Plymouth, Devon, and Cornwall. With a reputation built on quality, reliability, and an obsessive attention to detail, the company delivers bespoke interiors that combine high-end style with the rigours of everyday functionality.
At the centre of the business is owner Dan Sealey, whose experience and hands-on approach underpin every single project. With over 15 years in the industry, his expertise in both kitchen and bathroom design is reflected in the company’s ability to consistently deliver spaces that are not only visually impressive but also highly practical. His deep understanding of materials, spatial layouts, and evolving customer needs ensures each project is approached with precision and care, creating a smooth, professionally managed experience from the first consultation to the final sign-off.
Whether clients are drawn to the classic charm of a Shaker-style kitchen or the sleek, minimalist lines of a contemporary handleless finish, each design is tailored to suit individual
lifestyles. Cornflower has recently introduced striking new ranges featuring sophisticated metallic and stone finishes. These textures add a layer of architectural depth and tactile interest to the home, allowing for a truly premium, bespoke aesthetic that stands out from the crowd.
A vast range of colours, finishes, and bespoke paint options allow homeowners to create something truly unique, while thoughtful layouts ensure the space works effortlessly in day-to-day life. Storage solutions are carefully integrated, work surfaces are selected for both durability and visual appeal, and the overall flow of the room is designed to support both the art of cooking and the joy of socialising. This approach is particularly effective in modern openplan environments, where kitchens are expected to transition seamlessly into dining and living areas.
However, the Cornflower signature service now extends well beyond the kitchen. The company has seen a growing demand for Fitted Bedrooms, where the goal is to create a sanctuary that maximises storage without sacrificing style. Similarly, the rise of flexible working has made the Home Office a priority; Cornflower designs ergonomic, inspiring workspaces that blend perfectly with a home’s decor. For the living room, custom Media Walls have become a standout feature, providing a sophisticated way to house technology and fireplaces while creating a stunning architectural focal point.
Bathrooms are approached with the same level of care and refinement. Cornflower understands that a welldesigned bathroom should offer both practicality and a sense of calm. From modern, minimalist wet rooms to more traditional, luxurious suites, each space is created to suit the character of the home and the specific needs of the client. Fixtures and fittings are selected for quality and longevity, while layouts are planned to maximise space and comfort, whether it is a compact ensuite or a full family bathroom. The result is a space that feels considered, cohesive, and built to last.
What truly sets Cornflower apart is the certainty and peace of mind offered to every client. Navigating a home renovation can be daunting, which is why Cornflower takes the risk out of the process. As a Which? Trusted Trader with many 5-star ratings, the company’s credentials speak for themselves. Every project is backed by Home Improvement Protection Insurance and a 3-year workmanship warranty, providing a level of security that is rare in the industry. Clients can choose a complete end-to-end solution, covering design, supply, and installation, or opt for a design and supply package if they have their own trusted installers.
From initial home consultations through to detailed 3D visualisations, clients can clearly see their finished space before work begins, providing reassurance and confidence throughout. Ultimately, Cornflower Kitchens & Bathrooms is about more than just installing amazing interiors; it is about providing a professional, stress-free path to a better home.
Àclèaf is a showcase of inventive British fare by award-winning head chef, Scott Paton at Boringdon Hall in Devon. Book your table at acleaf.co.uk or call 01752 344455 @acleafrestaurant
Top tips for thinking about the planet whilst having a spring clean.
Aspring clean is like putting on fresh clean bedsheets in every crevice and item in your home. It’s extremely satisfying for your mind and your home but less so for the planet.
Most cleaning products contain nasty chemicals and are usually stored within non-recyclable plastic bottles. Anti-bacterial wipes are not biodegradable or flushable (though some claim to be), resulting in blocked drains or ending up in landfill. And a year’s worth (or more) of personal items get sorted out into piles and head for the tip. If only there was a way we could all experience the satisfaction of a spring clean without the harmful effects on the planet…
Well, you’re in luck. We have found lots of hacks, ecofriendly inventions and tips to get the job done with the same amount of satisfaction.
You may think you need a different cleaning product for every different surface in your house however, constantly buying plastic bottles is not good for the planet and it also adds unnecessary clutter. Stick to one multi-surface cleaner and cloth for the whole house and only buy purpose-made products when you need them.
Even better still, you can purchase reusable glass bottles to avoid plastic and opt for products such as multi-purpose refill sachets by Ocean Saver or concentrated disinfectants such as Zoflora which you only need to use a small amount at one time. Once you have used up all of your other cleaning products and correctly recycled the bottles, you will have a clean and tidy cupboard under the sink.
Clothes and shoes can be recycled by various retailerrun recycling programmes or at your clothes and shoes’ local recycling bin. Broken items of furniture
or damaged electrical appliances can be taken to your local recycling centre. If you are unsure where your local recycling centre or bin is, head to www. recyclenow.com, where they have a useful search tool to find out what types of items you can recycle and where.
Before throwing anything out, ask yourself if you could make anything new from the item. Upcycling is a great way to turn unwanted items into something tailored to your style. Whether that be a dress that you’d like to sew into a top or a cupboard that needs some updating. This is not only an eco-friendly way of adding new life to old items, but it can also be a lot of fun and you can learn a new skill along the way.
If you are unsure about upcycling, there are plenty of inspirational and educational videos on home DIYs on YouTube to avoid any mistakes.
Away
Anything that you don’t use that isn’t faulty or too damaged can go in this pile. When making this pile, think about who you want to give or sell it to.
Charity shops are always after new clothes to sell and they will happily take your unwanted belongings. You can take your clothes to your local charity shop or a charity shop in particular that you’d like to support once they are open on the 12th of April. You can also deliver your items to a charity of your choice with free postage.
Somebody in your family or a close friend might take it off your hands and put it to good use, it’s always worth asking them.
If it is in good condition, you could sell it on various second-hand shopping sites such as; eBay, Vinted, Depop, Gumtree or Shpock. Make sure the images are clear, and the description is honest and don’t forget about the postage and packaging costs.
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Kizamba exploded onto the scene in summer 2021, born from a shared love of Latin and Afro-Caribbean rhythms and a single goal: get people dancing! Their sound takes you from the Caribbean and Latin America to New York jazz clubs—genre hopping effortlessly between Latin jazz, reggae, Afro-Cuban salsa, soca, cumbia, and ska.
With deep Caribbean roots across the band and a multilingual lead singer raised there, Kizamba’s authenticity shines through every note. The joy is real, the energy is infectious—and the dance floor is unavoidable.
Includes a free Salsa dance workshop. Come ready to move!
19th
Hop through the egg-citing Easter themed course and crack the Easter challenge to win a chocolatey treat! Egg-straordinary fun for all ages.
PUTT your best foot forward and enjoy 18 holes of mini-golf, we are ROOTING for you to have a good time and can promise you won't LEAF disappointed!
With 18 holes of exciting crazy golf to conquer, streams to tackle and magic trees to avoid, no BUNNY compares to China Fleet Woodland Adventure Golf, in Saltash, Cornwall, near Plymouth, Devon. No booking required. Just turn up, pay and play. Free Easter treat for all children.
Tuesday 21st April
After the success of the first edition, Plymouth Music Meet will return on Tuesday 21st April 2026 at Steel Brew, from 7-10pm!
* Network with key players in the local and regional music industry
* Discover collaboration opportunities
* Gain insights from professionals
* Promote your music and business
Don't miss out on the EGGSTRAVAGANZA at Pennywell Farm this Easter Holidays! Your visit will be chock-a-block with activities for all ages to enjoy.
Join us this Easter Holidays for this egg-cellent event where there are thousands of chocolatey prizes to be won as well as VIP tickets, goodies, and a HUGE hamper! Make memories that will last a lifetime – there is so much fun to be had! With these egg-stra activities on top of everything else Pennywell has to offer, this is not one to miss…
ALL INCLUDED IN YOUR TICKET PRICE:
Easter Scavenger Hunt (EASTER WEEKEND ONLY 29th March – 1st April)
Find the Golden Egg Colouring Competition
Guess how many Eggs in the Jar
Guess the weight of the Easter Bunny’s Helpers
A partnership where everyone is accountable and everyone is accounted for is what will help to change the future of our planet. Businesses, governments and citizens, and it needs to happen now. Earth Day 2026 is all about ‘Investing in our planet’, whatever it takes, collectively, we can make a huge difference.
Here are some alarming facts about climate change that you may not be aware of.
When forests are cleared or burnt they release carbon dioxide, deforestation is responsible for 12%of all global greenhouse gas emissions. Deforestation impacts 1.6 billion rural people worldwide who rely on forests for their livelihoods. Every six seconds the world losses a piece of primary rainforest the size of a football field and more than half the world’s tropical forests have been destroyed since 1960. a leading cause of deforestation is commercial agriculture, this industry accounts for 40% of all deforestation.
800 million people are currently vulnerable to climate change, which is 11% of the world’s population. Worldwide people have lost homes and livelihoods
because of the direct impact of climate change. Floods, heatwaves, droughts, and rising sea levels are all having devastating consequences on people’s lives. Bonus Fact, if climate change is not tackled, parts of Plymouth could be underwater by 2050!
Climate Change is making our planet warmer at a faster rate compared to the previous 10,000 years, this warming has left many animals unable to escape to cooler climates to avoid extinction. One-third of all animals and plant species could be extinct by 2070 because of the changes in the atmosphere caused by anthropogenic climate change. The latest research by scientists shows that humans are responsible for bringing about a sixth mass extinction event.
On December 12th, 2015 countries came together in Paris to address climate change and the Paris Agreement was born. The agreement, which was signed by 195 countries, aimed to reduce emissions of gases that contribute to global warming. The objective of the agreement was to limit greenhouse gas emissions to levels that would prevent global temperatures from increasing more than 2 degrees above the temperature benchmark set before the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. Since the signing of the agreement, scientists have discovered that the given the risks to our planet, and aim for 1.5 degrees limit is necessary.
Here are some easy changes that you could make to your daily life that will collectively make a huge difference.
How much does your carbon footprint impact the planet? Visit footprint.wwf.org.uk and answer the simple questionnaire to see how you impact the earth daily. You will get a full breakdown so you can see which areas you can change and improve to help you cut down on nasty emissions. The site has tips to help you become greener and there’s even a free app so you can really challenge yourself.
Around 26% of our carbon emissions come from our home energy so what can you do to help.
Check your boiler, windows, and insulation and see if it’s up to date with the new green standards, if it’s not you may qualify for a government scheme to help you green your home. Check your energy supplier, many of the major energy suppliers now offer 100% renewable energy, which may even be at a cheaper rate than your current fossil fuel! Turn off those lights, phone chargers, TVs, and games consoles, even on standby these naughty appliances are still eating up energy. Get a smart meter installed so you can keep track of your energy spending habits, this one is not just great for the planet but your wallet as well.
To avoid your food having its own plane ticket try and shop for locally grown produce, here in the Southwest we are extremely lucky to have so many local meat and veg providers. Reduce your food waste by planning your meals ahead of time and always freezing your leftovers to reheat later.
Fast fashion is a leading cause of climate change with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change calculating that the fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon dioxide emissions each year and uses 1.5 trillion litres of water annually. Avoiding fast fashion brands that promote cheap, trendy clothes that go out of style quickly and instead by vintage or recycled clothes, websites such as Depop are a great way to help avoid clothes ending up in the tip. Buy quality clothes from brands that have sourced their materials ethically, good brands will have a climate statement on their websites so you can read exactly where the company ethos lies.
The climate change reports that we hear about on the news are very scary and it’s easy to get wrapped up in the bleak future that our planet is headed for and give up hope entirely. However, it’s still not too late to make a huge difference. We hope that by making these small yet conscious changes, we will be able to enjoy our beautiful planet and the wildlife on it for much longer.
4 weeks of non-stop pet appreciation! April is National Pet Month which means 30 days spent spoiling our furry or scaley friends (Even though every month should be Pet Month!)
IT has been proven that pets relieve stress in work environments therefore we thought we’d hear from some of our Plymouth businesses who work with their pets to find out what they love about it. We also wanted to hear about the funny stories and the unfortunate accidents too!
I don’t know about you but as soon as I catch a glimpse of an animal, I immediately have the biggest smile on my face. Not only do they always look so adorably innocent but all they want in life is to love and to be loved and that is very wholesome. They honestly don’t care about your looming deadlines or workload, what they do care about is your happiness and the time you spend with them instead of leaving them at home all day.
Pets are completely selfless (though some cat owners may disagree) and that selfless energy is radiated throughout the workplace. Research has proven that pets can lower blood pressure, reduce stress/anxiety, prevent loneliness and uplift your mood.
Dogs, in particular, force you to get outside during your workday as they need to be walked or let out for the toilet. Taking time away from your computer and heading outdoors is going to have a huge positive impact on your mental health and stress levels. It allows you time to clear your head, prioritise things and live in the present moment rather than constantly thinking about that deadline in 2 weeks’ time.
It’s hard to think creatively when stuck in an office all day. Walking also increases creativity, perhaps you could take your meetings with you on a dog walk to enhance new ideas.
Pets can be very funny beings to watch and engage with. Whether they are running around in circles with a toy or slyly about to push something off of a shelf, pets always find a way to make us laugh whilst also creating a little bit of mischief.
They can also boost attendance as you won’t need to rush home to look after them. Whether they’re a new pet or they suffer from a bit of separation anxiety, having them with you at work will also prevent any worries as you can always keep an eye on them.
When we think of bringing pets to work, we usually think of our furry four-legged friends, however, there are also health benefits to keeping fish in nerveracking environments to calm people down. Fish tanks in waiting rooms are very popular as it acts as an escapism from the world you are in as you focus on the fish swimming around their home. The sound of the water is also proven to reduce stress and contributes to the act of mindfulness.
Move more month is as basic as it gets when it comes to fitness-themed activities. It can be as simple as going on a walk when you might not usually, or even extending your normal dogwalking route. Within this little guide I’m going to help you set your goals for the month, track your progress and create a habit for life.
As indicated in the introductory paragraph, Move More Month is all about keeping your heart happy and healthy. We all know why heart health is so important, but to put it into perspective, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death around the world. Just 30 minutes a day, five days a week (150 minutes in total), can be enough to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Whether you think 150 minutes is a lot or not, it’s not always the easiest to fit into a busy schedule. This is where the simplicity of Move More Month shines—unlike other health challenges, Move More Month is simply about getting people out of the house. This can include a walk one day, maybe a bike ride or a gym session.
One of the best ways to be and stay active is by joining a gym, No longer can your level of activity be dictated by the weather outside. Joining a gym can open you up to all sorts of exercises and classes. Going with a friend can be the best way to enjoy the gym for alot of people.
Being more active is scientifically proven to support positive wellbeing by boosting what are known as our ‘happy hormones’ in the brain. Spending time outdoors is also shown to reduce stress and anxiety. So why not join us throughout April and move your way to a happier and healthier life?
Remember, it doesn’t matter how you move—just that you do it a little more often!
Making working out a Habit can be challenge for many people but there are a few ways to make it easier. My first tip would be to start small, going for a small run or maybe a long walk. Putting too much pressure on yourself to get into the habit straight away can be more detrimental than benaficial.
As the days and weeks go on you will find yourself falling into my habit, where people then tend struggle is after a long day or week where maybe they’ve been too busy that they done excersise. This can be a difficult time but as I said before putting too much pressure on yourself can be the downfall. Allowing for a week off and getting back to it the next week is the best thing you can do.
Easter Sunday is on the 17th of April this year! We have gathered together some delicious Easter inspired recipes for the whole family to enjoy.
• 300g plain flour
• 150g white caster sugar
• 150g slightly salted butter
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the iced option
• 500g royal icing sugar
• food colouring gels
ONE Weigh the flour and sugar in a bowl. Add the butter and rub together with your fingertips until the mixture resembles wet sand, with no buttery lumps. Beat the egg with the vanilla, then add to the bowl. Mix briefly with a cutlery knife to combine, then use your hands to knead the dough together. Shape into a disc, then wrap in cling film and chill for 15 mins. Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Line two baking sheets with baking parchment.
TWO Dust a work surface with flour, then roll one half out to the thickness of a £1 coin. Use an rabbit-shaped cookie cutter to stamp out as many as you can, then transfer them to one of the baking sheets, leaving a little space between the biscuits. Repeat with the other half of the dough.
THREE Bake for 12-15 mins, until the biscuits are pale gold. Once cool, decorate to your liking. Will keep in an airtight container for up to five days.
(Serves 12)
• 300g active sourdough
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 200ml milk
• 500g strong white bread
• 60g golden caster sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp mixed spice
• 1 orange, zested
• 150g raisins
• 100g unsalted butter
ONE Before you start, ensure the sourdough starter is very bubbly (if it’s not, feed it and wait until 1 tsp of the starter floats in warm water). Tip 200g of the starter into a large bowl with all but 2 tbsp of the egg, the milk, flour, sugar, cinnamon, mixed spice, orange zest and raisins. Mix with your hands until you have a shaggy dough. Cover with a clean, damp tea towel and leave to prove for 30 mins.
TWO Work the butter and 1 tsp salt into the dough by squashing it in using your hands. Once fully combined, tip the dough onto a surface and knead gently for 5 mins until smooth and springy. Form the dough into a ball, then return it to the bowl. Cover and leave somewhere slightly warm for 3-4 hrs to prove until the dough has almost doubled in size.
THREE Tip the dough onto a floured work surface and knead briefly, then divide into 12 pieces. Roll the pieces into balls and arrange on a baking tray lined with baking parchment, leaving some room between each. Cover with a clean, damp tea towel, then leave to prove again for 2-3 hrs at room temperature until doubled in size.
FOUR Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Brush the buns with the reserved egg. Tip the remaining starter into a piping bag fitted with a small nozzle, and pipe crosses onto the buns. Bake for 20-25 mins until light brown. Leave to cool slightly and serve.
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