Celtic Connections

winter edition 2011/2012

Ultimate FamilyOur first champions are crowned

Helping HandaNew sponsorship for ISPS Handa Wales Open

tried & testedLatest Elemis spa treatment sampled

strictly cole dancingBrendan Cole talks TV and his exciting event at Celtic Manor

+academy's national Fitting centreFireworks go oFF witH a bangwin a goUrmet break

official magazine of the celtic manor resort

For more information or to book contact Reservations on 01633 410262 or visit newbridgeonusk.co.uk

The Newbridge on UskPart of the prestigious Celtic Manor collection, offering six luxurious en-suite bedrooms and a two AA rosette award-winning restaurant, this 5 star picturesque riverside hideaway with breathtaking views of the valley, is the perfect spot to indulge in delicious dining with friends and family.

Reflecting the rural setting, the wholesome country fare is lovingly cooked using fresh, locally sourced produce. Relax here with a local ale and soak up the atmosphere of a traditional country pub.

CMR_Newbridge_CelticConns_Nov11.indd 1 28/11/2011 16:07

Editor's Notes

A wArm welcome to celtic connections

It’s hard to believe another year is coming to a close but what a year it has been for The Celtic Manor Resort. If anyone thought things would fall a bit flat after

hosting the Ryder Cup in 2010, they have had to think again.We’ve added exciting new events to the calendar and fantastic new facilities to

the resort in the past year and, if anything, 2012 is set to be even more momentous.There’s news in this edition of Celtic Connections of more exciting activities and

events coming your way and there will be plenty more to follow later in the year.Our most established event has also been given a novel twist as we welcome a

new title sponsor for the ISPS Handa Wales Open next year. ISPS – the International Sports Promotion Society – does excellent work promoting blind and disabled golf across the globe and we look forward to working with them on this mission while raising the profile of our European Tour golf tournament.

We are ending 2011 just as we began it - by scooping major awards. We will need to build a new trophy cabinet to house all the accolades as the last few weeks have seen us named the UK’s Best Conference Hotel for a staggering fifth year in succession and the UK’s Best Hotel Spa.

These awards are always pleasing but what is particularly satisfying is that they are the result of votes cast by the industry experts and the people who use our facilities, so they are a glowing endorsement of what the resort team does.

One of the new events arriving in 2012 is a special extravaganza of music and dance – Brendan Cole Live at the Manor – and he falls under the Spotlight before the big night in our feature interview.

We hope you enjoy the magazine and we wish all our readers a happy and prosperous year in 2012.

Best wishes

Paul WilliamsEditor

What'sInside4 mAttersA round up of all the latest Resort news, including our latest awards and the winners of our first Ultimate Family Challenge 10 in tHe sPotliGHt Interview with one of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’s’ most charismatic performers, Brendan Cole 12 FAirwAY FocUs A look ahead to the ISPS Handa Wales Open 2012 plus golf news 16 liFe & stYle Ensure you sparkle this party season with our brand new Shellac Nails at The Forum Spa 18 on tHe menU Meet our new Culinary Director, Peter Fuchs 20 delicioUs dininG A mouth watering seasonal dish for you to try at home 22 sociAl scene Photos from the Fireworks Spectacular and Monmouth Lounge evening 24 sAVe tHe dAte Fill your 2012 diary with a host of fantastic social events 26 inside View Meet Corporate Relations Manager Cerys Davey as she looks back at her first eight months in the role 27 celtic commUnitY Step into spring with the chance to win a fantastic gourmet break at the Resort

The Celtic Connections Team

EditorPaul [email protected] 410288

Deputy Editor Stephanie [email protected] 410530

Designer Paul [email protected] 410200

The Celtic Manor Resort

Mattersnews in BrieF From celtic mAnor

A doUBle toAst to sUccess

Congratulations to the Newbridge on Usk which has been awarded the prestigious five star

‘restaurant with rooms’ accolade by Visit Wales. To attain this standard, Visit Wales describes such establishments as ‘exceptional with a degree of luxury’. This success follows the achievement of being awarded two AA rosettes earlier in the year and is great testimony to the charming appeal of this quaint country inn. Treat someone to a fantastic Christmas gift with a voucher to dine at this award winning inn – see page 18 for details.

strictlY cole dAncinG

He may have been voted off Strictly Come Dancing with partner Lulu but there’s still a great chance to see

Brendan Cole strut his stuff when he hosts a special dance extravaganza at The Celtic Manor Resort.

Cole will waltz his way through a magical evening of entertainment in the resort’s magnificent Caernarfon Ballroom on Saturday 18th February.

The twinkle-toed professional dancer, who has developed a reputation as the ‘badboy of ballroom’, has toured the country with his Live and Unjudged show but Brendan Cole Live at the Manor is a unique event. Cole will be joined for the show by other world-class dancers and a superb live band.

All tickets, which start from only £115, include a champagne reception on arrival, three-course dinner with wine, the spectacular live dance show and an after-show disco with late bar.

Find out more about Brendan Cole in our In the Spotlight interview on Page 10. For tickets please contact the Special Events team on 01633 410318.

mAtters

Here’s a round up of our favourite tweets from celebrities and guests. Follow us on twitter

@TheCelticManor for all the latest Resort news, offers and competitions.

@TomFelton (Harry Potter movie star)Had an amazing birthday weekend at Celtic Manor in Wales.

Thanks to everyone who made the trip so memorable. Shame

about my golf swing...x

@bensmith_TimesI'm @TheCelticManor living out a boyhood dream. Playing for

Team Europe in the media version of Ryder (Writer) Cup

@raymondverheije Today the Wales preparation for the Montenegro & England

games on Sep 2 & 6 have started in the beautiful Celtic Manor

Hotel.

@TheCelticManor look who’s talking

FiVe Gold wins

The Celtic Manor Resort has been voted the UK’s

Best Conference Hotel for the fifth year running by readers of

Conference & Incentive Travel.The Gold Award in the magazine’s

Hot List caps another momentous year for the venue which beat off some strong competition for the prize with London’s Savoy Hotel taking the silver award and The Grove in Hertfordshire claiming bronze.

Celtic Manor had already in 2011 been named Europe’s Golf Resort of the Year by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators, UK Sport Venue of the Year at the Sport Industry Awards and Best UK Hotel at the Meetings & Incentive Travel Awards.

@Hastings_HannahFair to say @TheCelticManor #fireworks were phenomenal!

@lizmarnieMy daughter had the biggest tantrum ever. We stayed

@TheCelticManor last month, went 2day & she thought we were

staying again! She's not 2 yet

@kaitborsayThe other 1/2 had a fantastic weekend @TheCelticManor returning

with photos, club bag tag and a big grin! Great shout for a

weekend away.

@_paul_woodA lovely welcome to our suite @TheCelticManor for me and my

@susie_wood ready to enjoy the next 3 days for our wedding!

@PaulChucky38-5 through 18 holes @TheCelticManor adventure golf! Great fun

with the kids and recommend it! #bestroundallyear

sPA sUccess

We’re thrilled to have been voted Best UK Hotel Spa

at the recent SPA Traveller Awards. This award for The Forum Spa is an extra special honour for us as it was voted for by the readers with no judging panels in sight! Thank you to everyone that voted for us and we hope to see you soon.


CHAMPIONS! The Kill Family

from Raglan are Wales' Ultimate Family 2011

The search for Wales’ Ultimate Family Challenge is over… for

this year, at least. From a raft of entries, five lucky families were chosen to contest

the final challenge on Celtic Manor’s new Forest Jump treetop

adventure.They were put through their paces on the high and low ropes

courses with tests of skill, speed and teamwork to unearth the first-

ever Wales’ Ultimate Family. Congratulations go to the Kill family from Raglan who held

their nerve in a nail-biting finish to win the title. With the last

throw of the day, Hannah Kill managed to hit the hoop target held

by dad Nigel to secure the 10 bonus points that won the day.

The winning family - made up of mum Justine and another

daughter, Lucy - were consistent throughout the four rounds of

competition and flew around the low ropes course in 4 minutes 14

seconds to win the Speed Challenge.In all, they scored 36 out of a possible 40 points to beat off stiff

competition from their enthusiastic rivals – the Griffiths, Stannard,

Fox and Cornish families.“We are delighted to be crowned Wales’ Ultimate Family,” said

Justine. “It has been a fantastic day and we have had great fun

taking on the challenges as a family.”All five finalist families enjoyed an overnight stay at The Celtic

Manor Resort as part of the competition weekend and the Kills will

return for a two-night stay in a luxury suite as their main prize.

Watch the website, forestjump.co.uk, for details of our search

for Wales’ Ultimate Family 2012.

Mike Stannard shows his delight at

hitting the bonus target

Rhys Fox speeds across the course

Andrew Griffiths waits his turn before facing the tyresSuzanne Cornish lets out a shriek

as she prepares to throw at the target

during her Powerfan Jump

Josh Stannard and family on the Low

Ropes course

mAtters

Deputy Mayor, John Guy, and 3 year

old Alfie Beavan check out the new

facilities

It's playtime in the new Games Room

eVerGreen YoUnG BUds

The Celtic Manor Resort has opened a new day care nursery, providing

a stimulating learning environment for pre-school children.

Evergreen Day Nursery was officially opened by Newport’s deputy mayor Councillor John Guy on its first day of operation for the autumn term.

Located in the original Manor House Hotel, which was once a maternity hospital bringing babies into the world, Evergreen will nurture children from nine weeks until the school age of five years old.

The nursery promotes an eco friendly approach with the use of natural materials, recycling and healthy living through a broad range of exciting activities such as woodland walks, growing and gaining an understanding of where vegetables come from, then preparing and eating them.

Evergreen Day Nursery is open 7.30am until 6.30pm with flexible packages available to meet the needs of both working and non working families. The nursery also operates an Evergreen Nannies childcare service for hotel residents.

cAllinG All Kids!

The brand new Games Room in the Leisure Zone is a great

place to hang out and have fun, with everything from table football, air hockey, a pool table, Xbox Kinect and a funky jukebox for older kids, to an exciting soft play adventure for younger ones. Our family-friendly facilities also extend to an action-packed schedule of children’s activities plus an outdoor adventure playground. We guarantee your little ones will be entertained for hours!

A sPArKlinG conFerence incentiVe

A sparkling engagement awaits those booking a conference at Celtic Manor in 2012. The Resort’s glittering success continues, having

been voted the UK’s Best Conference Hotel for the fifth year running, but that’s not the only incentive for booking a conference at our award-winning venue.

They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend, so look out for more details coming soon... it’s going to be a gem!


PAlAce dAte

Jim McKenzie is the proud recipient of an MBE for services

to sport after travelling to Buckingham Palace to collect

the honour awarded in the Queen’s Birthday List.With the Queen away on a royal tour of Australia,

Prince Charles bestowed the honour on McKenzie, the man who led the greenkeeping heroics to keep last year’s Ryder Cup afloat in horrendous weather.“It was perhaps only fitting that it was the Prince of Wales,” said Celtic Manor’s Director of Golf

Courses and Estates Management. “He remembered meeting me at the Ryder Cup and congratulated us all on a job well done.”

Pencil in tHe Polo

After the summer’s sizzling success, Polo at the Manor will return to take pride of place on the

social calendar for 2012.The Sport of Kings will return to The Celtic

Manor Resort on Saturday 7th July and let’s all keep our fingers crossed for the same glorious weather that blessed the inaugural event in 2011.

Once again, top players and ponies will be on show for a day of fast-paced sporting action played out against a backdrop of champagne hospitality.

Pencil in the date and start planning that summer outfit!

Hospitality packages available from £95 plus VAT

General Admission (advance purchase price)Adults £17Seniors (60+) £12Children (under 16) £7Infants (under 2) FreeFamily ticket (2 adults and 2 children) £40

Resort Members Adults £15Seniors (60+) £10Children (under 16) £5

For more information visit www.poloatthemanor.co.uk

looKinG to sAY ‘i do’?

Are you planning your perfect day but in need of a little help? For inspirational

ideas look no further than our exclusive Wedding Fayre on Sunday 19th February 2012. It’s a unique opportunity to meet our team of Event Coordinators and see creative work on display from specially selected exhibitors including florists, photographers, bridal shops and a host of expert wedding suppliers for those important special touches.

Admission is free, register online at celtic-manor.com/weddings

Models show off a stylish collection of

suits for grooms

A collection of beautiful wedding dresses for the big day

Brides to be looking for inspiration as

they plan their special day

Looking to exhibit? Contact Nigel Murphy on 01633 410557 or email [email protected]

PAlAce dAte

Jim McKenzie is the proud recipient of an MBE for services

to sport after travelling to Buckingham Palace to collect

the honour awarded in the Queen’s Birthday List.With the Queen away on a royal tour of Australia,

Prince Charles bestowed the honour on McKenzie, the man who led the greenkeeping heroics to keep last year’s Ryder Cup afloat in horrendous weather.“It was perhaps only fitting that it was the Prince of Wales,” said Celtic Manor’s Director of Golf

Courses and Estates Management. “He remembered meeting me at the Ryder Cup and congratulated us all on a job well done.”

Jim McKenzie MBE

mAtters

FireworKs niGHt Goes

witH A BAnG!

Over 3,000 guests enjoyed the sell-out Fireworks Spectacular as we lit up the sky

above Celtic Manor in spectacular style on Bonfire Night. There was plenty of fun for the whole family with fairground rides, live entertainment on stage from Freestylers and the Resort band plus lots of winter warming treats to enjoy during the magnificent festival of fireworks, including a hog roast and toffee apples.

Remember, remember this date for November next year!

A dazzling array of fireworks lit

up the night sky

The crowds were enthralled by the spectacular display

on tArGet

Following the successful opening of new adventure activities in the past year, Celtic

Manor will be adding more fun facilities to the resort.

Branching out from Forest Jump in the Coldra Woods alongside the hotel will be a new “On Target” zone where adrenaline-fuelled activities will include paintball and archery.

It’s all part of the resort’s commitment to provide great value and variety for families and leisure guests. The new activities will also offer more team-building fun for corporate groups.


In The SpotlightBrendAn cole

Brendan Cole and wife Zoe enjoy

Polo at The Manor

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Seeing people’s reactions when I perform. When you interpret a piece of music and you excite people just by moving your body, things are pretty good. I love being on stage and I’m really lucky I get to do it so often.

And what do you dislike about it?It can be a lot of hard work and

pretty demanding in many ways. However I get to meet some great people and I feel fortunate to be able to make my living doing something that I love.

What has been your most embarrassing moment on the dance floor?

Too many to count - flies open, forgetting choreography, falling off a stage into audience... you name it, I’ve done it!

What do you make of your reputation as “the bad boy of ballroom”?

If you are going to have any reputation as a ballroom dancer, this is the one to have! Everyone that knows me, knows the real me. If you come and see me live, I hope you’ll see a very different Brendan to the “bad boy” reputation.

For tickets to Brendan Cole Live at the Manor, please contact the Special Events team on 01633 410318

This is the ninth series of Strictly Come Dancing and you’ve been in every one. Tell us what the experience has been like...

It’s a phenomenal show to be involved in. Everyone involved feels very privileged to be a part of it and it obviously has a massive presence in our lives. Whilst the show is on, it’s gruelling work with a punishing schedule but when it’s off-air, we all miss it.

How much has Strictly done for the profile of ballroom dancing and dancers like yourself?

It’s done wonders. Growing up being a ballroom dancer wasn’t the easiest of childhoods but with shows like Strictly now being so popular it has changed the perception of dance and made it almost cool. I’m very proud to be a part of that.

Strictly Come Dancing star Brendan Cole will be bringing his own unique event, Brendan Cole Live at the Manor, to the Resort in February. We caught up with the star of the show

in tHe sPotliGHt

Brendan struts his stuff on stage

How excited are you about performing your show at Celtic Manor?

Extremely! I love to play golf so to mix that and business is perfect! Celtic Manor is a gorgeous place and the whole crew are excited about it. I’ve been telling them all about it and it’s the last gig we’ll be doing all together. It will make for a brilliant evening.

What can people expect from Brendan Cole Live at the Manor?

Pretty much anything and everything! Obviously dance, but I like to think something a little bit intimate and different. There will be lots of chat, plenty of music from a truly brilliant bunch of musicians and, with all of us knowing each other so well, we have a great time up on stage together and that normally means ‘Anything Goes’!

What else do you like about the Resort?

The facilities are great, first class all the way and with so much happening there you really feel like you are quite privileged to be hanging out there. You may as well know, I stroked Tiger’s locker when I was there to go to the polo in the summer!

How else do you relax?What’s this thing you say ‘relax’?!

Feels like a long time ago I did that! I just enjoy spending time with my wife Zoe, a little golf and, as a New Zealander, watching rugby is a big passion. I’m a man of simple tastes, sometimes.


A HelPinG HAndA

The Celtic Manor Resort’s flagship European Tour golf event will have

a new name in 2012 as we welcome new title sponsors for the ISPS Handa Wales Open.

The three-year sponsorship deal with ISPS Handa launches an exciting new chapter in the history of the tournament which counts Ryder Cup stars Paul McGinley, Ian Poulter and Graeme McDowell among its former champions.

ISPS – the International Sports Promotion Society – is chaired by Japanese businessman and philanthropist Dr Haruhisa Handa. The organisation supports the International Blind Golf Association and will be raising the profile of blind and disabled golf through a number of initiatives staged around the ISPS Handa Wales

Open and other golf tournaments.ISPS has already sponsored

prestigious tournaments on the European Senior Tour, Ladies European Tour, Asian Tour, Japanese PGA Tour, Australian PGA and Legends Tour. The 2012 ISPS Handa Wales Open from May 31 - June 3 will be its first European Tour event.

With a prize fund of £1.8m and staged on the Twenty Ten Course which hosted such a memorable Ryder Cup in 2010, the ISPS Handa Wales Open has grown into one of the most recognised golf events in Europe.

Celtic Manor Resort Chief Executive Dylan Matthews said: “We are delighted to welcome ISPS Handa on board as the title sponsor of the ISPS Handa Wales Open. We are now able to secure the future of the tournament with

Fairway FocuswHAt’s Hot in GolF At celtic mAnor

eArlY Bird toUrnAment ticKets

Daily Season

Adults £21 £47

Seniors (60+) £11 £32

Children (0-16) Free Free

Early Bird ticket offer valid for all tickets purchased before 29th February 2012.

this excellent three-year partnership with ISPS Handa. We have a fantastic opportunity to work together to raise the profile of the tournament to an even higher level.”

For tickets and information, visit ispshandawalesopen.com

Former tournament winner Paul McGinley gives a pointer to Midori Miyazaki of new sponsor ISPS watched by, from left, Richard Hills, Ryder Cup Director, The European Tour; Dylan Matthews, Chief Executive, Celtic Manor Resort; and Andrew White, Chief Executive, WSM Communications

FAirwAY FocUs

wAlKer winners

Two Welshmen with Celtic Manor connections were instrumental in guiding Great Britain & Ireland to

a superb Walker Cup triumph against the USA at Royal Aberdeen.

Nigel Edwards masterminded the surprise victory as the non-playing captain while his compatriot, Rhys Pugh, was one of the stars of the show, winning all three of his matches.

Pugh, who won the Junior Wales Open at Celtic Manor and is a regular visitor to train with Wales squads, counted the US Amateur champion Kelly Kraft and the world’s No 1 amateur Patrick Cantlay among his scalps.

Edwards, who played alongside the likes of Luke Donald, Graeme McDowell and Nick Dougherty in four Walker Cup appearances as a player, refused to accept his team’s underdog status and cajoled a thrilling 14-12 victory from his charges.

Edwards worked at the Golf Union of Wales offices at Celtic Manor as director of player development before leaving to take up a similar role with England in the wake of his Walker Cup heroics.

writer cUP AnniVersArY

The first anniversary of the 2010 Ryder Cup was marked in style with a Ryder Cup anniversary

challenge on the Twenty Ten Course and a two-day Writer Cup media competition.

Journalists from The Times, Sky Sports and the Daily Telegraph were among the European team which took an unassailable 4-0 lead after the opening singles on the Montgomerie Course in the Writer Cup.

Joining the shotgun start anniversary challenge on the Twenty Ten Course the following day, Europe pressed home their advantage in the fourball series to win 7-1 overall.

But there was a measure of revenge for Team USA in the larger competition as they ended up comfortable winners of the Ryder Cup anniversary challenge.

The weather over the entire weekend could not have been in greater contrast to 12 months before, as blue skies and record October temperatures prevailed and the jumpers provided for all players were discarded in favour of short sleeves.

From left, Europe's Mike Norrish and Ben Smith

take on Americans Todd Wessell and Michael Woody

in the Writer Cup

mirror, mirror, on tHe wAll...

The Celtic Manor Resort has been voted Readers’ Golf Club of the Year at

the Club Mirror Awards.The resort beat off strong

competition from the other shortlisted clubs – Wentworth Club, Sunningdale, Gleneagles and Royal Birkdale – to scoop another prestigious title.


FittinG tHe Bill

Leading golf club manufacturer Titleist has opened a new state-of-

the-art National Fitting Centre at The Celtic Manor Resort.

The new facility will be run by Celtic Manor’s highly-trained teaching professionals who will provide guests with the same fitting processes, equipment and technology that have helped the likes of Titleist Brand Ambassadors Rory McIlroy, Matteo Manassero and Adam Scott claim victories across the worldwide professional tours this year.

“The introduction of a Titleist National Fitting Centre at The Celtic Manor Resort is a hugely exciting addition to our club fitting network,” said Richard Temple, Titleist Golf Club Product and Fitting Manager.

“Celtic Manor is a world renowned golf destination and we are hugely proud of our association here.”

Titleist Brand Ambassador and Celtic Manor member Phillip Price was delighted to add his support to the new fitting centre at a launch event in October.

“It’s so important to get right fitting clubs, I can’t stress it any more than that,” said Price.

“You’d be so lucky to walk into a shop and get a set of clubs off the shelf that suit you – it’s impossible I’d say.”

Bookings for the Titleist National Fitting Centre at The Celtic Manor Resort are available on an appointment only basis.

Get YoUr GAme on trAcK

If you’re thinking of treating yourself to a new set of golf clubs, then make

sure you try before you buy by taking advantage of the ultimate custom fit at the Golf Academy.

An hour-long custom-fit session costs £45 but is fully refundable against the purchase of clubs.

Celtic Manor member Phillip Price launches a drive and the Titleist National Fitting Centre at the Golf Academy

no ordinArY joe

New trainee professional Joe Ferguson has enjoyed some

success in PGA tournaments since joining the Celtic Manor Golf Academy at the end of the summer season.

In his first event, the Titleist and Footjoy Assistants Championship, Joe finished second with a six-under-par 66 at Woodbury Park.

That helped the former England amateur international secure an invite into the Welsh National PGA Championship at Southerndown where he managed a highly creditable sixth place in a tournament won by three-time European Tour winner Stephen Dodd.

Joe is hoping to recruit Celtic Manor members to join him in pro-am events on the PGA West Region circuit. Anyone interested in teaming up with him should contact the Golf Academy on 01633 410312.

Joe Ferguson in action at the Welsh

National PGA Championship

Available in both the Titleist and TaylorMade fitting centres at the academy, Trackman Pro is the choice of the PGA Tour, USGA and The R&A for swing and ball flight analysis.

FAirwAY FocUs

Girls' winner Amy Boulden and overall champion

Toby Hunt (main image)

HUnt Hits HiGH note

Toby Hunt was crowned Principality Junior Wales Open champion for 2011

after a sparkling round of one-over-par 72 on the Twenty Ten Course.

Hunt won the Under-18 boys’ best gross prize by an impressive eight shots as the other seven players in the field all failed to break 80 on the demanding championship layout.

The Gwent county golfer from the St Mellons club wins a year’s honorary junior membership to Celtic Manor’s prestigious Twenty Ten Club as his prize.

Leading Welsh amateur golfer and Junior Solheim Cup star Amy Boulden signed off her junior career in style by regaining the girls’ title she won at Celtic Manor at the tender age of 14 in 2007.

The plus-three handicapper from the Maesdu club in Llandudno was delighted to win her last major junior event, carding a round of 75.

A total of 56 boys and girls contested the grand final, after qualifying from regional events held throughout Wales, and there were 15 age-group prize winners who won golf bags from Asbri.

Graeme Yorston, Chief Operating Officer at sponsor Principality Building Society, said: “We’ve had a fantastic day of competition and it was wonderful to see so many youngsters enjoying their golf and testing themselves against such a challenging golf course.”

Check out the website ispshandawalesopen.com for upcoming details of the 2012 competition

jUnior joY

Celtic Manor’s young golfers have been crowned Welsh Junior Team Champions after winning the inter-counties

title at Builth Wells.Having already won the Gwent county title earlier in the

season, Celtic Manor saw off the other county champions from all over Wales and now travel to Spain to contest the Home Nations Championship against winning clubs from England, Scotland and Ireland.

There was more

good news for the junior team when Matthew Ashton won sponsorship in the form of balls and shirts from Srixon for topping the Single Figure Golfer Junior Order of Merit for the UK. As part of his prize, Matthew also gets to play with a top pro at the 2012 Golf Live

show at the London Club in May.

Pictured are the winning team at Builth Wells

Back row (l-r): Joel Gibbons, Joe Du Feu, Ryan Haskell

Front row (l-r): Jake Darlington, Theo Baker (Captain),

Burhan Uzzaman.

Not pictured but part of the 2011 success were Matthew

Ashton, Rhys Evans and Nishad Uzzaman


sAntA's most wAnted

Elemis Grooming On-the-Go Men’s Travel Trio £22Pamper him this Christmas with this excellent stocking filler, which delivers smooth, soothed skin without weighing him down!

Life & StyleGlAmoUr & stYle secrets

tried & tested

Spa Manager Marieke Teagle tests the Elemis Body Sculpting Cellulite

and Colon Therapy.

The Claim: Cleanse the digestive system, inhibit fat storage, eliminate toxins, improve skin tone and texture, smooth, tone and redefine contours. Also lose up to 2 inches around the waist.

The Test: The cactus body brushing was firmer and more bracing than I imagined and the massage was quite intense and vigorous. It didn't hurt, but it's certainly not the most relaxing treatment I've ever experienced. Having my abdominals massaged was a new and slightly peculiar experience. Gentle

Marieke Teagle, Spa Manager

we loVe

Elemis Starlight Spa Candle. Treat your senses and fill your home with these beautiful warm aromas. £30, at The

Forum Spamassage of the stomach caused it to gurgle and pop which is slightly unnerving at first but feels okay once you're used to it. The treatment includes a scalp massage which was very relaxing and helps the body to release toxins more effectively.

The Results: There's no denying my legs and bum look and feel smoother after just one treatment. I made sure I drank plenty of water afterwards to flush out those nasty toxins. It is a great treatment to give your digestive system a kick-start, as well as launch an assault on 'orange peel' skin.

The Cost: From £64, at The Forum Spa

reader oFFerShow your copy of Celtic

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and receive this treatment for

only £48. Terms and conditions apply. Subject to

availability. Monday - Thursday only

until 31st January 2012.

Bags of StyleStand out on your next weekend break with this stylish duffle bag from Tommy Hilfiger. £210

liFe & stYle

Whether it's a big Christmas party or just drinks with friends, these tricks of the trade from the Rhys Giles salon will help you dazzle this festive season.

Dream Curls: Put straighteners away unless you are using them to create curls. This season is all about big hair with lots of movement, aka Stacey Solomon.

Get Some Bounce: Use large heated rollers to add bounce to your hair. Put them in before getting ready to get the maximum effect.

Frizz Fighter: To create glamorous, shiny hair use a conditioning treatment such as Elixir Ultime on wet or dry hair without weighing it down.

Accessorise: This is completely up to the individual. Diamanté clips are good for a touch of bling, but don’t go OTT!

FAsHionFocUsFocUs

Pretty In PinkBecome the epitome of American style with this Ralph Lauren Ladies Polo in New Rose. Available in a selection of designs and colours. £69

Wrap UpPrepare to take on the elements in style with a luxurious and cosy cardigan from DKNY. £280

All items available in The Celtic Mall

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Application takes up to 75 minutes and 30 minutes to remove. Gel extensions add length naturally while strengthening and conditioning natural nails with a flexible and natural finish.

BEST FORFantastic on natural nails. It’s like an extra strong nail polish with longer lasting results, but without the drying time. It cannot be used to extend or build on the nail.

Bio Sculpture offers a permanent nail colour that lasts for weeks without wearing or chipping. Strengthens and conditions nails to promote natural growth.

RESULTSA quick and simple semi-permanent nail polish that’s almost as quick as a basic manicure. No chipping, with shine lasting for approximately 14 days.

Great if you have ridges on your nails as the gel instantly levels to give an even, glossy finish. Can be used over natural nails with no primers, avoiding dehydrating the nail.

CELEBRITY FANSRihanna, The Kardashians, Halle Berry.

Catherine Zeta-Jones, Jennifer Aniston, Victoria Beckham.


On The MenudeliGHtFUl dininG At celtic mAnor

A GiFt to trUlY relisH

Relish Wales, a cook book bursting with original recipes from the region’s finest

chefs features dishes from both The Crown at Celtic Manor and the Newbridge on Usk. This book would make an excellent addition to any amateur foodie’s cook book collection and would make an excellent gift, as they are produced with the same care and attention to detail as the chefs give to their dishes.

We’ve created a special gift voucher that combines dinner at either establishment with a copy of Relish Wales so you can experience this fine cuisine first hand then prepare the recipes in your own home!

Gift vouchers are available to purchase online at celtic-manor.com/online-shop

Put on your glad rags and step out in style for a

sensational Saturday night dinner and dance at The Olive Tree this party season. Get into the festive mood with a truly spectacular buffet dinner with wine, followed by dancing until midnight to the sounds of our sensational swing band.

With sumptuous food, fabulous entertainment and plenty of festive spirit, this is a great opportunity to get together for a fun night out with friends in the run-up to Christmas.

Saturday 10th and Saturday 17th December

£45 per person

Culinary Director Peter Fuchs

on tHe menU

FABUloUs FeAst

Launched earlier this autumn, the brand new feasting menu at

the Newbridge on Usk is perfect for celebrations with family and friends as you enjoy a hearty feast of traditional home cooking sat around one magnificent table to share a banquet of delicious platters together.

Served in the private dining room, feasting is a relaxed and informal way of dining and sharing dishes amongst each other.

So if you have a celebration coming up, simply choose a selection of dishes from the three course feast menu and we’ll bring the fine fayre to the table while the rest is up to you!

For more information and to view a menu, visit newbridgeonusk.co.uk

t is For treAt

‘Taking’ afternoon tea has made a fashionable come-back and this

tradition which epitomises elegance has never been stronger. Afternoon tea is the perfect way to catch up with friends or family, celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a romantic date. Served within the magnificent surroundings of the five star Resort Hotel, throughout December seasonal sweet treats including mince pies and chocolate Yule log, together with freshly baked scones, assorted pastries and cakes plus a selection of sandwiches can be enjoyed with a glass of mulled wine.

Our children’s afternoon tea menu is the perfect treat, allowing parents to indulge in a delicious high tea while children get to turn their play-time tea parties into a real-life afternoon tea experience.

£24 per person£11.95 per child (aged 12 years and under)

Peter FUcHs

Peter Fuchs has returned to Celtic Manor to take up the brand new role

of Culinary Director.Peter helped open The Resort Hotel

as Executive Chef in 1999 and was promoted to Food and Beverage Director before leaving in 2004. Since leaving, his posts have included heading up kitchen operations at Harrods and Saudi Arabia's prestigious Rosewood Hotels in Riyadh.

As Celtic Manor's first Culinary Director, he will be aiming to bring consistency to the running of the resort's six restaurants and will also look to expand the chefs' training programme he began in his last spell here.


Some of the best sea trout in the UK are found in

Wales and it’s impossible not to make a tasty dish

from this fine fish. This recipe from Head Chef

at The Lodge, Dave Richardson has a fantastic

Welsh influence and is easy to prepare at home.

Serve with

Our expert sommelier suggests a

local wine to accompany this dish,

a Glyndwr Dry Aromatic from the

Glyndwr Vineyard in Cowbridge.

An aromatic Riesling from New

Zealand is also a good match.

Delicious DiningseAsonAl disHes From tHe celtic mAnor KitcHen

inGredientsServes 4

4 sea trout fillets (normal trout is fine if sea trout not available)12 medium size new potatoes100g crumbled Pant Ys Gawn goat’s cheese140g samphire1 punnet cress (rocket can be used as an alternative)60g peeled broad beans50g butter, dicedJuice of a lemon

Dave Richardson, Head Chef at The lodge

welsH seA troUt witH PAnt Ys GAwn, sAmPHire And lemon Brown BUtter

delicioUs dininG

metHod1. Cook the new potatoes until just about done

then heat a pan and gently fry the potatoes in oil until golden brown. Remove and keep warm

2. Gently fry the trout skin side down for 2 to 3 minutes and then turn over and fry for another 2 to 3

minutes (the fish should be opaque all the way through). Remove and keep warm

3. In the same pan heat the samphire and shelled broad beans, then remove and drain

4. Put the pan back on the heat and add the butter. When it starts to foam add the lemon juice. Be careful not to over heat the butter as it

will turn black. Aim for a golden brown colour5. When ready to serve, place the potatoes on the plate, arranging the beans

and samphire around them. Sprinkle with crumbled Pant Ys Gawn goat’s cheese and cress, then place the trout on the other side of the plate and spoon the

butter over to finish


Jac the pirate ranger meets a young

guest

Social ScenePeoPle & PArties At celtic mAnor

Dylan the Dragon enjoys a spin on the

fairground teacups

Youngsters give the thumbs up to a great

night out

Ellie Martin and Jason Williams

FireworKs sPectAcUlAr

Thousands turned out for our first ever Fireworks Spectacular at the Golf Academy

on 5th November.

Martyn Williams and family enjoy

refreshments during the evening

Freestylers entertain the crowds before the dazzling display

Rugby star Martyn Williams launches the countdown

David Miller and Angela Payne

Samantha and Steve Lowery

sUmmer sizzler

Our summer barbecue on the Rooftop Terrace had everything a Caribbean

party ‘tropical style’ required – an evening of beautiful sunshine (with a late night thunderstorm!) tropical cocktails on arrival, the uplifting calypso beats of a traditional steel band, delicious food and amazing outfits!

Claire Moseley and Laura Simmonds

sociAl scene

Laura Walters, Cerys Davey and June Walters

The brand new Monmouth Lounge Kevin Gerrish and Leigh Hussain

Janet Harris and Caroline Batten

Laila Bevan, Bernie Jackson and Hayley Corley

Kayla Perfect and Bryony Elliott

Natalie Weaver and Julie C

ollier

A toAst to sUccess

In celebration of being named C&IT ‘Best UK Conference Hotel 2011’ a

special drinks reception was held at our brand new Monmouth Lounge.

The Monmouth Lounge is a new break-out area with catering stations for lunch and refreshments which is proving very popular with our Convention Centre clients.

Guests relaxing in the Rooftop Barbecue

Val Sadighiani, Jane Carson, Catherine Haines and Maggie Sweeney


Save The Datedon’t miss oUt!

BrendAn cole liVe At tHe mAnor Get up close and personal with Brendan Cole live as

he performs a spectacular show as you see some of the

magic created on ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ first hand by

one of its most charismatic performers.

Tickets from £115 per person

weddinG FAYre From country house chic, to summer

garden party, to opulent chandeliered

ballroom, whatever your style you can

enjoy the wedding you’ve always dreamed

of at The Celtic Manor Resort.

For inspirational ideas to help you

plan your perfect day, come along to

our exclusive wedding fayre which will

provide you with a unique opportunity

to visit our beautiful wedding reception

and ceremony venues, meet our team of

Event Coordinators and specially selected

exhibitors.

Admission is free, register online at celtic-manor.com

FAirwAY to FUrlonG Combine the prestigious golfing

destination and five star facilities

of Celtic Manor with the Festival

at Cheltenham and get one of the

greatest racing weeks of the year

off to a perfect start. Following a

round of championship golf at Celtic

Manor, enjoy a sumptuous dinner

before a panel consisting of famous

faces from the racing world will run

you through their views about the

major races - and hopefully provide a

few winners for the upcoming week!

Tickets start from £249

For more information visit www.fairwaytofurlong.com

GoUrmet cooKerY demonstrAtionA must-see for all food lovers and budding chefs, join our fabulous

culinary team at The Crown at Celtic Manor as our experts showcase the

finest in gourmet dining.

£55 per person, includes a glass of bubbly and canapé reception plus

three course lunch

If you cant make it in February, look out for more cookery

demonstrations running throughout the year, visit celtic-manor.com

Don't forget you can now book Polo at the

Manor 2012 tickets

eAster sUndAY With a variety of tempting Easter

Sunday lunches available, there

is no better opportunity to enjoy

the very best food and drink with

family and friends. There is a

mouth-watering menu to suit all

tastes so enjoy a delicious Easter

Sunday lunch at one of our

fantastic restaurants.

cAstle FAYre to drAGon’s lAir Join us for a unique adventure from pampering relaxation to raucous

revelry, as heavenly meets history in a tale of two kingdoms. Receive a

royal welcome and indulge in the five star luxury of our Resort Hotel,

before a trip back in time to the Middle Ages with a magical evening of

medieval merriment.

motHer's dAY We should all spoil our Mum’s

from time to time, and Mother’s

Day is the perfect opportunity.

Indulge your Mum with some

pampering and relaxation at

the award-winning

Forum Spa, or with

six stunning venues

to choose from, why

not celebrate in

style and book

a delectable

Mother’s Day

lunch in

one of our

restaurants.

rBs six nAtionsStay at the Resort during

February and March and take the

hassle out of travelling to Cardiff

to watch Wales at the Millennium

Stadium with our dedicated match

day transport service.

Sunday 12th FebruaryWales v Scotland, 3pm

Saturday 10th MarchWales v Italy, 2.30pm

Saturday 17th MarchWales v France, 2.45pm

FeBrUArY HAlF term If you’re too cool for school enjoy

a fabulous February half term

break at Celtic Manor with lots of

family fun and exciting children’s

activities.

VAlentines dAY With romance in mind, celebrate with your loved one and choose from

a host of indulgent treats. From romantic breaks and candlelit dinners

to a day of pure pampering in The Forum Spa, we have everything your

heart could desire.

sAVe tHe dAte


How long have you worked at the Resort? Eight months. It’s been a really busy time out at

appointments, leading show rounds for clients that are new to the Resort and hosting evening functions, but I’ve met lots of different people so the time has flown by.

Describe your typical day? I’m often out of the office visiting local businesses across

South Wales from Cardiff, Newport, Vale Of Glamorgan and as far west as Swansea. With so many developments at the Resort since I joined I’m always busy keeping people up to date with what’s new, such as our Adventure Golf and Forest Jump treetop adventure which have been a great success. It’s also really interesting learning a little more about their business, and I spend time checking the local news and researching leads for new business in my area. I have recently taken on clients from Bristol so spend a few days a month across the bridge.

What’s your favourite thing about The Celtic Manor? The versatility of the Resort, there’s something to suit

everyone! The versatility of my role also means I’m continually meeting new people which is great.

If you weren’t doing this job, what would you be doing? Travelling the world! I would like to revisit Australia

and check out the west coast and maybe spend some more time travelling North America - I’ve always wanted to visit Dollywood in Nashville and Disneyland in Florida. And after watching Billy Connolly’s recent programmes, Route 66!

What’s your greatest achievement? Backpacking around the world on my own where I

travelled to Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Hawaii, Canada and North America. At times it was a very scary experience on your own but the best 10 months of my life.

Inside ViewcerYs dAVeYcorPorAte relAtions mAnAGer

Do you have any hobbies? I love films and going to the cinema. I’ll pretty much watch

anything except horrors as I’m a real scaredy cat! I was counting down the days to the new Twilight film recently – I’m a big fan.

Who would you most like to have dinner with? Bruce Willis, I’ve loved him forever! My obsession started

when he was in ‘Moonlighting’ all those years ago. But if he’s not available I’d settle for Lord Sugar, I find him fascinating.

What three words best describe your character? Friendly, fun and passionate.

What’s your favourite holiday destination?Definitely the United States, I love the American people and

how over the top everything is. I think New York and Chicago are the best places for shopping and sightseeing. However, I also love the beaches in Greece, perfect for relaxing.

What’s your favourite season?Summer. I’m a real sun worshipper, I hate the cold!

Do you have a favourite type of food?Curry, the hotter the better! I’m a huge fan of Vindaloo and

the local speciality Tan Y Ddraig (The Dragon’s Fire).

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? Definitely Vancouver in Canada, it’s an amazing place to

visit but I think it would also be a really great place to live as it's very cosmopolitan.

Name one thing that most people don't know about you?I play baseball for my local rugby club! When the rugby

season ends, baseball is the preferred summer sport. We have a ladies team in the league, currently in division 3. We came 2nd in the league last year so we’re aiming for the top spot now!

in tHe PinK

On 25th October over 60 enthusiastic members enjoyed an ‘In the Pink Coffee

Morning’ at Dylan's Health Club to raise money for Breast Cancer Care. It was a busy morning with lots of posh cakes and coffee, while members (dressed in pink of course!) took part in a zumba class and aqua hoedown – all wearing matching pink headbands!

Gaynor Stinton, a Dylan's member and cancer survivor, was on hand to talk about her recent trip to Peru with Denise van Outen, Fearne Cotton and Alexandra Burke in aid of Breast Cancer Care, and share some amazing photos of her adventure.

The event raised over £500 through generous donations from members which was gratefully received by this worthwhile charity.

celtic commUnitY

win

!

win A GoUrmet escAPe

Enjoy true indulgence with a wonderful culinary treat for

two at our 3 AA rosette flagship fine dining venue, The

Crown at Celtic Manor, combined with an overnight stay for two

people at the luxurious Celtic Manor Resort Hotel.

Prize includes:

• 1 night luxury accommodation in the Resort Hotel

• Full Welsh breakfast

• 3 course dinner with a bottle of wine at The Crown at Celtic

Manor

• Use of The Forum Health Club throughout your stay

For your chance to win, simply go to www.celtic-manor.com/

gourmetcomp

Closing date for entries is

31st March 2012.

reAdY, steAdY, cooK

The team from the Newbridge on Usk unveiled the exclusive launch

of its magnificent feasting menu at the 2011 Abergavenny Food Festival. Festival

goers were treated to a series of live cookery demonstrations, as well as trying a few tasty samples from the chefs! Each guest also received some delicious goodies to take away

Come along to the Abergavenny Christmas Food & Drink Fair on Sunday 11th December as the Newbridge on Usk will be demonstrating the art of snowflake cookies.

Market Hall Chef Demonstrations, 1.30pm

Celtic CommunitymAKinG A diFFerence

Go teAm celtic!

A fighting fit team from Celtic Manor completed the Cardiff 10K run in

spectacular style in September, raising over £2,000 for Brainstrust, a UK based brain cancer charity dedicated to improving clinical care for brain tumour sufferers. Well done Team Celtic!

The Crown at Celtic Manor

Team Celtic raised over £2,000

Congratulations to Gareth Joneswho won the competition in the last issue and will win an adventure break at Celtic Manor.

An exciting new day care facility for children aged 9 weeks to 5 years is now open at The Celtic Manor Resort.

• Traditionalvaluesinahome-from-home atmosphere,wherestimulatingplayexperiencesofferexcitinglearningopportunities

• Asafe,lovingandnurturingenvironment,speciallydesignedandequippedtoenrichthoseall-importantearlyyears

• Whereindividualattentionmaximisesthe developmentandpotentialofchildrenduring theirfirststepsthroughlife

• Stimulatingandchallenging,whereenjoymentandfunarelinkedwithdiscoveryandlearning

• Endlessopportunitiestoexplorenatureinourbeautifulwoodlandsandnurserygarden,inspiringpositiveoutdoorexperiences

• Flexiblechildcaretomeettheneedsofworkingparents,offeringsupport,continuityandpeaceofmind

Sessions are available between 7.30am and 6.30pm,with no charge for Bank Holidays and two weeksholiday per year at 50% of the normal weekly fee.

Full-time childcare availablefrom £152 per week*

For more information, pleasevisit celtic-manor.com/evergreenor call 01633 410555Visitceltic-manor.comforfulltermsandconditions.*Pricequotedbasedontypical8hoursperday.Longer10hoursessionsalsoavailable,aswellas5hourhalfdaysessions-pleaseaskfordetails.

Evergreen_CelticConns_Dec11.indd 1 28/11/2011 17:02

Celtic Connections

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