Tag Archives: devon

News

Slice of luxury at leading holiday parks following major investment and redevelopment

LUXURY lodge owners and visitors can enjoy a slice of comfort and leisure at picturesque holiday resorts following multi-million pound investment in the South West.

Darwin Escapes’ five-star parks at Cheddar Woods Resort and Spa, Somerset, and Hawkchurch Resort and Spa in Axminster, Devon, have attracted thousands of people to the region over the last decade.

Employing up to 100 staff across the two sites, the company has pumped hundreds of thousands of pounds into the local economy and both are thriving as destinations popular with residents and tourists, according to Senior Sales Consultant Stacey Dabinett.

At Cheddar Woods in particular, which was sensitively built on the grounds of a much-loved former campsite and BMX track in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), there has been a major transformation since day one.

“Darwin Escapes enhanced the location with an emphasis on greenery and landscaping, so we can welcome many holiday-home owners every year without imposing on the natural surroundings,” said Stacey.

“There has been significant investment on-site, but our number one USP has to be this incredible setting, which is why so many families have bought lodges here, notably for the views across the Somerset Levels to Glastonbury Tor.

“We are surrounded by nature and one of our most beloved features is a series of woodland walks which take in the amazing wildlife right on our doorstep, from deer and birds of prey to rare plants and more.”

A range of holiday homes are spread across the park, complemented by facilities including a heated indoor swimming pool with mini jet ski, ‘water walkerz’ and sea scooter sessions, which are available at a discounted rate for owners.

There is also the bar and bistro, the Eden Spa, sauna and steam room and activities via the popular GoActive programme, including climbing, bowling and archery, also enjoyed by the local community.

Meanwhile, at Hawkchurch on the south coast – which has a population of less than 600 people – the scenes are equally idyllic.

At the core of the local community, Darwin Escapes has redeveloped its footprint to include 120 lodges – 40 for ownership – and high-quality features, notably the exclusive Ezina Spa, with its hydrotherapy suite and pool complete with water cannons, waterfall, loungers and soothing treatments.

“The Spa has been a major transformation in the last 12 months and proven to be a hit with owners, who are here for peace and tranquillity, to get away from it all,” said Stacey.

“Both parks are surrounded by beautiful countryside, and I think reflect the ethos of Darwin Escapes, embracing and enhancing the surroundings, providing employment, supporting regional economies while creating environments which appeal to different demographics.

“Whether you’re a family with young children or a couple looking for a perfect home from home, there is something for everyone, especially here in the South West, and both Cheddar Woods and Hawkchurch are testament to that.”

For more on Darwin Escapes Cheddar Woods, visit Holiday Breaks in Cheddar – Cheddar Woods (darwinescapes.co.uk).

Visit Holidays in Axminster & Devon – Hawkchurch Resort & Spa (darwinescapes.co.uk) for the latest on Darwin Escapes Hawkchurch.

News

Hospitality consultant sets table for expansion and TV appearance after helping clients bounce back from pandemic

A LEADING hospitality consultant and mentor who served up success for businesses in the pandemic has set the table for expansion.

Following more than 15 years in the sector, Laura Anne Harvey launched her company – Laura Anne Hospitality Consultant Ltd – full time in the autumn.

She got off to a flying start, garnering clients across the UK and was even nominated in the Micro Business of the Year category at the 2023 FSB Wales Awards.

A coach and mentor with the Greater Manchester Leadership Hive, supporting entrepreneurs and start-ups with free guidance and advice, Laura is focused on helping firms in the sector bounce back from the challenges of Covid-19 to reach even greater heights.

Originally from Devon and now living in Hawarden, she is targeting new customers in North Wales having won contracts with venues nationwide, including Pendergast’s Steakhouse in Warrington, Pasta Cosa in Liverpool, and Wokingham’s Salty Olive.

“I’m working with cafes, hotels, bars and restaurants all over the country but not too many here on my doorstep,” said Laura, who is supported by partner Liam.

“There are many great hospitality businesses in North Wales doing incredible things, and people who are looking to start their own venture, which is where I can help.

“Despite the obstacles and issues around the Coronavirus, rising costs, and other factors, I’m seeing a lot of businesses that are enjoying a period of growth, which is heartening given the current economic climate.”

Laura added: “I think a lot of people are still uncertain as to how a consultant can help – they envision a Gordon Ramsay type scenario where I turn up and point out what’s wrong – but that’s certainly not the case.

“It’s more of a partnership, where we look at things strategically, take a step back and identify how best to be successful going forward, not just financially but in terms of efficiency, the environment and technology.

“For example, during the pandemic a lot of restaurants and cafes felt their food quality was too good to consider offering a takeaway or delivery service, and now for many of them it’s their main source of revenue.

“Having that coaching and mentoring support has proven invaluable to them, but also from a personal perspective there is no greater feeling for me professionally than seeing someone do well.”

A former Operations and Marketing Director with an international hospitality group, Laura fell in love with the industry from a young age.

Ahead of a hospitality TV series to be aired in the coming months, fronted by a prominent celebrity chef, the future is looking very bright for her.

“I want to be the go-to person for marketing, operations and business development in the food and drink arena, that’s my aim and I’m already on my way,” she said.

“It’s a sector hit hard in past years which has shown amazing resilience, driven by innovation and bright ideas, and my aim is to be at the heart of that, in North Wales and beyond.”

Laura added: “Every customer is different but for all of them I can help by offering a wide range of business coaching and consultancy services to business plans and operations manual writing.

“And it’s important I lead by example; I don’t just step in and tell them what they need, I help them deliver it. For one restaurant client I found the property, negotiated the lease, and managed the fitting-out, marketing and launch event. It’s the end-to-end experience.

“That’s what will help me to stand out as my business – and the industry – move forward with confidence and passion, supporting the economy, independent producers and the many established and upcoming hospitality businesses achieving amazing things across the country.”

For more information, visit the website www.lauraanneconsulting.co.uk and follow Laura Anne Hospitality Consultant Ltd on social media at @lauraanneconsulting.

News

RGB South Molton completes renovation project

The South Molton branch of RGB Building Supplies has opened a brand-new plumbing and heating centre, completing a 12-month full renovation project.

The new centre has allowed the branch to double the size of its plumbing and heating (P&H) product offering and install a dedicated trade counter, manned by a P&H specialist.

In addition to the new plumbing and heating centre, the branch has added a tool centre, featuring an increased range of hand and power tools from leading names such as DeWalt and Makita. It has also improved and expanded its range of decorating products and the materials available in its yard.

The bathroom showroom has been completely redesigned with new displays added, and a joinery centre has been created offering a comprehensive selection of floors, doors and ironmongery.

Tom O’Leary, Branch Manager at RGB South Molton, commented:

“We are committed to growing our range to meet customer demand, and we began transforming the branch in January 2022 to ensure we were offering the products that our customers need. The renovations have allowed us to develop and increase what we are able to provide to those who work in the trade, as well as customers who are taking on projects in their own homes.”

RGB Building Supplies’ South Molton branch is located on Pathfields Business Park.

News

Animals benefit from renovated homes thanks to south west builders merchant

As previous winners of RGB Building Supplies’ Surprise Supplies initiative, Woodside Animal Welfare Trust has been able to complete a number of projects and update its animals’ homes.

In February this year, members of the local community voted for the Plympton-based charity to receive £1,000 to spend on materials at RGB in Plymouth

Woodside Animal Welfare Trust is an animal rehoming charity that aims to provide loving new homes for unwanted pets, including dogs, cats, ponies, goats, rabbits, birds, and more. Due to age or illness, some of the animals are unable to be rehomed and remain with Woodside as much-loved residents.

The charity used RGB’s donation to improve the pens where cats who live on the site and those waiting to be rehomed are kept, create a home for its resident turkeys – Paul and Linda McTurkey – and build a home for cats who have trouble mixing with other animals.

Lisa Darcy, Deputy Manager at Woodside Animal Welfare Trust, commented:

“With approximately 150 animals onsite – some that live with us permanently and some that are waiting to be rehomed – we continually have to make costly repairs to our facilities to ensure the animals remain safe and protected. As we rely on donations, this can be a strain, so having the £1,000 from a local company to spend on materials and help us to complete projects across the sanctuary has been a massive help. Thank you RGB.”

Richard Perry from RGB Plymouth visited the charity to learn more about what they had achieved. Richard added:

“Woodside Animal Welfare Trust does a vital job caring for a wide range of animals, and we are big supporters at RGB Plymouth – me and my colleagues have adopted our own family pet from the charity. It was great to return to see how they have benefitted from the £1,000 donation and we will do all we can to support them further in the future.”

More information about Woodside Animal Welfare Trust can be found by visiting https://www.woodsidesanctuary.org.uk/.

Apprenticeships, Construction, Construction News, News, South West

New apprenticeships launched by RGB Building Supplies

RGB Building Supplies has launched a new apprenticeship programme helping to bring young people into the builders merchant industry.

Two new branch operative apprentices will be based at RGB depots in Barnstaple and Porthleven and will learn all aspects of the industry, including managing stock, raising quotes, assisting customers, processing orders, liaising with suppliers and completing paperwork. They will gain a broad knowledge of industry-leading products and develop their communication, customer and teamwork skills.

At the end of the 12-month apprenticeships, the apprentices will receive a Level 2 Trade Supplier qualification with any additional maths or English exams taken during the period.

Helen Mahoney, HR Manager at RGB Building Supplies, commented:

“There is a generational skills gap in the builders merchant industry, so it’s vital that we do something to help change that. It’s not an industry that many young people consider when thinking about a future career, but there is a wide variety of roles and positions available, and it is a sector that is constantly seeing innovative products being launched.

“An apprenticeship gives young people the perfect balance between training, working and earning by allowing them to gain experience and a qualification at the same time.

“Our apprentices do not need any experience, as they will be given full external and internal training throughout the 12 months. They just need to be enthusiastic, well-presented, friendly and have an interest in delivering exceptional customer service.”

Further information about the RGB branch operative apprenticeships can be found on the careers page of RGB’s website – rgbltd.co.uk/careers. Those interested in joining RGB as an apprentice can apply by sending their CV and covering letter to HR@rgbltd.co.uk.

Construction, Construction News, News, South West

RGB thanks the South West community for generous donations to Ukraine appeal

RGB Building Supplies is thanking those who donated to its appeal for essential items that could be passed on to Ukrainian citizens.

In support of the Builders Merchants Federation’s (BMF) national appeal, RGB received 13 bulk bags of donations. The bags usually hold around 800kg of sand or aggregates.

The donations included thermal clothing, bedding, sleeping bags, torches, first aid kits, toiletries, baby items, household cleaning items and non-perishable food.

All the donated items were delivered to the charity Feed the Hungry by Umberleigh-based RTD, which is part of the RGB Building Supplies group. Feed the Hungry will distribute the donated items to those in need.

Andy Gamble, Managing Director of RGB Building Supplies, commented:

“We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who generously donated items to the appeal. Some of the people the items will be passed to have lost everything and are in a desperate situation – everything that has been given will be greatly appreciated and will help to change the lives of hundreds of people.”

News

Advice from RGB: How small changes can help reduce energy bills this winter

With the head of Ofgem, the UK’s energy regulator, warning that the annual household energy bills are likely to rise by a further £800 when the price cap is adjusted in October, RGB Building Supplies is giving advice to local households about cost-effective changes they could make to receive a potential saving of up to £700 on the average yearly energy bill*.

Paul West, Branch Manager at RGB Exeter, commented:

“We are all hearing daily about the cost-of-living increases, and as purses are definitely feeling the pinch for many families, we have put together some tips about small changes people can make in their home now to reduce energy bills. Our tips don’t cost a lot of money and will also have a benefit to the environment.”

Cut out draughts

Fixing draughts is one of the cheapest and simplest jobs that can be done to conserve energy. A home loses heat through gaps around windows and skirting boards so by fitting draught excluding tape, or applying silicone around windows, and using draught excluders at the bottoms of doors will help heat to be locked inside. For homes that have open fireplaces, use excluders that can be fitted in chimneys to stop heat disappearing when not in use.

Energy saving cost: up to £45 per year / up to £65 per year for properties with chimneys

Switch to LED lightbulbs

Not only can money be saved by ensuring that lights are turned off in rooms that aren’t being used, but replacing all lightbulbs to LED alternatives, which are even more efficient than traditional energy saving bulbs, money can be saved on your electricity bills. LED bulbs use less energy and last longer than halogen lightbulbs.

Energy saving cost: an average of £4 per year per bulb depending on the wattage equivalent / average UK home saving of £40 per year

Make sure a home is insulated

“Much like fixing draughts, ensuring a home is adequately insulated will stop heat from escaping,” said Paul. “As heat rises, as much as 25% could be vanishing into a loft space. If a home does not have loft insulation, start by filling the gaps between the floor joists. If an attic space is used quite often, add insulation between the roof joists to increase the saving and improve the thermal efficiency.”

Energy saving cost: up to £250 per year

 Ensure radiators have working thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs)

TRVs allow radiators to be set at different temperature settings in each room. This means that energy will not be wasted on rooms that aren’t used as regularly as others. TRVs can easily and cost-effectively be replaced without having to spend money on a new radiator.

Energy saving cost: up to £150 per year

Bleed radiators regularly

Air can become trapped in radiators meaning a heating system will not work to its optimum. By bleeding radiators, this air is released; it’s best practice to do this at least once a year. If a radiator is warm at the bottom and cold at the top or it’s making a gurgling noise, then it needs bleeding. Keys to bleed radiators are very cheap and can be picked up from most builders merchants or hardware shops.

Energy saving cost: up to £100 per year

Install energy saving shower heads

Energy efficient shower heads restrict the volume of water that flows through them, without reducing the pressure. This means less energy is needed to heat the water. If every member of a family reduced their showering time by one minute, they will see an impact on energy bills.

Energy saving cost: up to £30 per year off energy bill / £45 per year off water bill

Paul West concluded:

“Other small changes families can make to save on their energy bills include ensuring electrical items are turned off when not in use and not left on standby, only boiling as much water as is needed instead of a full kettle every time, using the eco setting on an appliance, and turning down the temperature to 30 degrees, or even lower, when using a washing machine.

“At RGB we have a range of products that can help a family cut their utility bills by saving energy and we are happy to give advice.”

* Saving is for an average household energy bill. Energy saving costs will depend on the size of the family and property.

News, South West

Devon builders merchants support national campaign to help Ukrainian citizens

Devon builders merchants supports national campaign to help Ukrainian citizens

RGB Building Supplies is supporting the Builders Merchants Federation’s (BMF) national appeal to help the people of Ukraine by collecting essential items.

RGB’s branches have created donation areas where its staff, customers and those in the local area can drop-off items such as thermal clothing, bedding, sleeping bags, torches, first aid kits, toiletries, baby items, household cleaning items and non-perishable food.

All the donated items will be passed to the charity Feed the Hungry who will distribute them to those in need.

The donation points will be in RGB’s branches between Monday 4th April and Saturday 30th April.

Paul West, Branch Manager at RGB Exeter, commented:

“The brutal war has caused so many people to flee their homes leaving them with nothing, so builders merchants from across the country have joined together to support the BMF’s appeal and help Ukrainian citizens during this humanitarian crisis. At the outset we want to thank the kind-hearted people in our community for their donations.”

A full list of the items that can be donated is available as part of the appeal can be found on RGB Building Supplies’ website – https://www.rgbltd.co.uk/ – or in the branches.

 

Education, News, South West

Devon primary school voted as a Surprise Supplies winner

Bridgerule CofE Primary School has been voted as a winner of RGB Building Supplies’ Surprise Supplies initiative and now has £1,000 to spend on materials at RGB’s Holsworthy branch.

RGB invited charities, schools, community groups and care homes from across the region to get in touch and explain how a donation of materials would help to complete a project. Alongside Woodside Animal Welfare Trust in Plymouth, Bridgerule Primary School received the most votes following a public poll and each winner has received a donation of £1,000.

Bridgerule Primary School is aiming to transform an area of grass in its playground into an all-year-round sensory and quiet garden where pupils can go to talk or enjoy some calming space. The project will include plants that provide gentle fragrance and some seating for chatting with friends. The £1,000 donation will be primarily used for this project.

Anne Bunning, Principal at Bridgerule CofE Primary School, commented:

“We’re delighted to have been voted as a Surprise Supplies winner and thank you to every parent and member of our community who voted for us, and to RGB for the donation. The new area of garden will be an important part of our school and we have a group of parents who are on standby and ready to help bring it to life – we’re excited to get started with the project.”

Tony Curtis, Branch Manager at RGB Holsworthy, visited the school to learn more about their plans. Tony added:

“This is exactly the type of project that we want to help with Surprise Supplies. Congratulations to Bridgerule Primary School and good luck with the project – we look forward to helping with materials and ensuring the £1,000 goes as far as possible. I can’t wait to return to see how the donation has been used.”

 

News, South West

South West builders merchant extending opening hours

RGB Building Supplies is extending its weekday operating hours and will now open at 7am on Monday to Friday throughout the summer.

Now that daylight saving is in place, those working in the trades can take the opportunity to get on site earlier to make use of the lighter mornings. RGB’s earlier opening time allows for more flexibility in when supplies can be collected from the branch.

Richard Jayne, Branch Manager at RGB Penzance, commented:

“By changing our opening times to accommodate daylight saving, we are able to support our customers, particularly those who work in the trades, by better reflecting the hours they are working.”

From Monday 4th April to Friday 30th September, RGB’s summer opening hours will be 7am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 12pm on Saturday.