People are queuing out the door to buy incredibly indulgent milkshakes and cakes at this new shop
People are queuing out the door to buy incredibly indulgent milkshakes and cakes at this new shop
Jayde Brown started off selling cakes to friends and family during Covid, now she has her own shop and people lining up to try her bakes and shakes
Jayde Brown, who runs Pixie Cakes in Killay
(Image: Jayde Brown )
It started of as a small side hustle for Jayde Brown, baking cakes for friends and family. Now she has people queuing out her door just to get a taste of one.
Jayde first launched her baking venture Pixie Cakes in 2015 and has spent the last decade steadily building a loyal following in Swansea.
From nostalgic treat boxes delivered during lockdown to her much-loved Cookie Stack celebration cakes and Brownie Bombs, Jayde's creations have become a hit at local markets and cafes across the city.
Her inventive takes on classic bakes, packed with popular sweets, have helped her to stand out in the Swansea food scene, and six weeks ago, Jayde brought her dream full circle by opening her first shop in the Swansea suburb of Killay, where she grew up. For the latest restaurant news and reviews, sign up to our food and drink newsletter here
Pixie Cakes has already gained lots of attention locally
(Image: Jayde Brown )
Growing up in Killay, she's got to know the area and locals well, and has previously worked in the florist's shop which was there, as well as the news agents and a pasty shop. She had also worked as a papergirl.
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Jayde has now set out to make Pixie Cakes more than just a shop, but also somewhere people can come and get to know the staff members, mingle with other shoppers and become part of the community.
The shop also sells locally roasted coffee, indulgent milkshakes made from her own bakes, and handmade products from other independent Welsh makers.
Inside Pixie Cakes, which sells lots of products from local makers
(Image: Jayde Brown )
It all started during the pandemic, when baking quickly became more than just a pastime for Jayde, but a small business that helped her stay connected with her community, selling cakes to family and friends before she started doing stalls at different markets around the area.
'I started baking just to keep myself busy,' Jayde explained to WalesOnline. 'I'm not one to sit still really and I just really got into it.
'The practice just turned into lots more practice. I actually went travelling just before lockdown and when I came back to my old job they had closed down so that was another reason I really went for it when the pandemic hit.'
Jayde's bakery focuses on quality and care in every order, and the atmosphere inside the shop is one of the most important things to her.
She noted: 'I always encourage the girls who work at the shop to engage with everyone because I want it to feel like an experience really, so that older people in particular who come here aren't just in a corner on their own or anything.
'I want them to come in so they can have a bit of company for the day as well and for us to have a proper chat with everybody,
'So far it's been going so well. It's crazy really because there's been queues outside the door on some days. It's honestly so surreal.'
One of the popular items at Pixie Cakes is the indulgent milkshakes which are made from Jayde's own bakes
(Image: Jayde Brown )
When asked where she got her ideas for her creations from, Jayde explained: 'I'm actually dyslexic, so I think my creativity comes out in other ways for me and I wanted to make sure that even at the markets, there'd be lots of different traders there at a time and rather than seeing it as a competition it used to make me think about what I can do differently so that there'd be lots of variety there.'
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Looking ahead, Jayde hopes to grow her bakery and one day open up in an even bigger space, but right now, she is still making the most of being part of the community and enjoying all that it has to offer.
She added: 'I think the long term plan would definitely be to also have somewhere else bigger but the OG of Pixie Cakes will definitely also always stay here in Killay.'
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Wales Online
25 minutes ago
- Wales Online
The best fish and chip shops in Wales according to the people who know best
The best fish and chip shops in Wales according to the people who know best National Fish and Chip Day is the perfect time to indulge in the treat Page's Fish & Chips in Cwmbran is one of the establishments on the list (Image: Page's Fish & Chips/Facebook ) Today marks an important day in the calendar - National Fish and Chip Day. There's little that can compare to venturing to your local favourite for a delectable serving of cod and chips and today is the perfect day for it. A fish and chip supper is a treat we simply can't resist, and it's one of the nation's favourite takeaway options - particularly during the summer months when beach outings and evenings lounging by the seafront are commonplace. The succulent flakes of cod encased in golden batter, served with piping hot chips and lashings of vinegar... just thinking about them makes us hungry. Whether you're partial to a cod bite, a sausage-in-batter, or curry sauce, there are plenty of fish and chip shops in Wales serving up the most tantalising portions. From the shores of north Wales to the market towns of the south, you'll find a chippy whose offerings are as breathtaking as the views that surround it. Here, in no particular order, are the Welsh chippies that should be on your list, whether you're local or just passing through.... 1. Caersws Fish Bar When one of Wales' - and indeed the UK's - top chefs (none other than Ynyshir's Gareth Ward) recommends a fish and chip shop as one of his three top places to eat ever, you don't question it. You can read all about Caersws' story here, reports Wales Online. Owner Tim Harrison prides himself on experimenting with new, exciting dishes for his chippy, including sourdough batter, Parsi-style masala battered fish, Koji Fried Chicken - his take on KFC but with fermented ingredients - and much more. This truly is a fish bar with a 'really cool' difference. Article continues below Where: 2 Cwrt Swswen, Station Road, Caersws SY17 5EQ Caersws Fish Bar (Image: Tim Harrison ) 2. Victoria Fish Bar On a chilly, dark autumn evening, the bright lights of Victoria Fish Bar invite in hungry patrons, offering comforting fish and chips with crispy batter embracing thick cuts of cod. Where: 41 Old Church Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 1AB The team at the Victoria Fish Bar in Whitchurch (Image: Victoria Fish Bar ) 3. The Mermaid This Barmouth-based chippy was the only other Welsh establishment recognised by The Times in 2023 as one of the UK's best. It was described as: "What beverage pairs best with fish and chips? Champagne? An unoaked chardonnay? A pint of bitter? All are good, but none beats a mug of tea. "In most chippies that's a teabag on a string in a polystyrene cup, but at the Mermaid (established 1964) it comes out of a metal pot, strong and slightly overstewed - the perfect accompaniment to a crunchy fillet of battered cod and crisp yet fluffy chips." Sounds lush. Where: Jubilee Road, Barmouth LL42 1LT 4. O My Cod Not only is O My Cod a scrumptious fish bar in Bridgend, but it's also an award-winning one. The chippy has been recognised not just for its top-notch food but also for its charitable endeavours. The chippy regularly provides hearty meals to local homeless individuals and fundraises for local charities - Hope Rescue for abandoned dogs and the Tŷ Hafan children's hospice. Not to forget, it has bagged the Blue Ribbon in Good Food award for Fish and Chips - its ingredients are locally sourced, fresh and it boasts an extensive gluten-free and vegetarian menu. Where: 66 Nolton St, Bridgend CF31 3BP 5. Hikary's Fish Bar This chip shop is a firm favourite amongst the residents of Neath and Port Talbot. With numerous prestigious awards to its name, its fresh and high-quality menu is cooked and fried using groundnut oil, making it a deliciously healthy takeaway option. Alongside staple options like fishcakes, scampi, jumbo sausages and traditional cod, they offer burgers, halloumi fries and even jacket potatoes. Plus, they were recently named as one of six Welsh fish and chip shops listed in the UK's Top 50. Where: 74 Briton Ferry Road, Neath Hikary's Fish Bar (Image: South Wales Evening Post ) 6. Môr Ffein This stunning shop offers traditional fish and chips daily, but it also serves special menus for when you fancy treating yourself or your loved ones. And it's not just fish you'll find. You can indulge in pulled pork, vegan chilli, and even a cheesecake or two – we're salivating at the thought. Where: 2 High Street, St Dogmaels, SA43 3ED Môr Ffein (Image: Môr Ffein Llandudoch / Instagram ) 7. The Creel This snug, family-run chippy exudes warmth and friendliness. With its proximity to the port ensuring the freshest of fare, it's no wonder TripAdvisor is awash with glowing reviews. One visitor wrote: "Amazing fish and chips. Just freshly made. Good price. Friendly staff and helpful. Nice wee sitting area outside. Well worth a visit." Where: 84 High St, Porthmadog LL49 9NW 8. Dorothy's Fish Bar A night out in Cardiff isn't complete without a jaunt down Caroline Street, affectionately dubbed Chippy Lane, culminating in a feast at Dorothy's. Whether it's classic fish and chips, Welsh favourite chips and curry sauce, or another takeaway delight, missing out on Dorothy's means missing out on a true Cardiff experience. Since it opened in 1953, this enduring family-run chippy has become an institution for satisfying those fish and chip cravings, whether it's lunchtime or the early hours. Where: 39-40 Caroline St, Cardiff CF10 1FF 9. Cardiff Arms Fish Bar The new proprietors of this Rhondda chip shop have inherited years of fish supper history from the Italian family who previously ran it for decades. They've also taken over the iconic cafe next door, giving both a modern makeover whilst maintaining the familiar feel of their predecessors. Alongside classic fish suppers (quality fish, light batter, generous portions), they've updated the menu to include burgers, loaded fries, an expanded range of seafood delights and a rotating selection of homemade fishcakes and rissoles. Where: 147-148 Bute St, Treorchy CF42 6BN 10. Beales Beales offers beautifully crunchy batter that's not at all greasy, succulent flakes of fish, and chips that are fluffy on the inside and golden on the outside. Everything is served in a cardboard box and is always fresh and tasty. Expect queues at any time of day. Where: 2-3 Eastern Promenade, Porthcawl CF36 5TS 11. Off the Hook Bistro Boasting a stunning location overlooking Broad Haven beach, Off the Hook serves up fantastic fish and chips with equally impressive views - and the portions are huge. The batter is light without being greasy and the chips are simply divine. Most of their menu can also be made gluten-free - just let them know your preference. Where: 2 Marine Rd, Broad Haven, Haverfordwest SA62 3JR 12. Penaluna's Famous Fish and Chips This family-owned chippy has received numerous awards for its fish and chips. The shop only purchases fish that has been processed and frozen at sea within six hours of being caught. Where: 36 High St, Hirwaun, CF44 9SW 13. Hiks This Swansea-based chip shop boasts a 42-seater restaurant adjacent to its original site. They place a strong emphasis on freshness, with all cod cooked to order. Their menu includes meal deals, desserts, and a build-your-own-burger option. Where: 189 Llangyfelach Rd, Brynhyfryd, Swansea SA5 9LE 14. The BoatHouse Fish Bar Experience the full package at this traditional fish shop located right on the seafront. Jessica and Chris, who are graduates of the Frying School of Excellence, offer a wide variety of fish options. If you're feeling adventurous, give their Irish curry or fishcake special a try. Where: 36 Esplanade, Porthcawl CF36 3YR 15. Boofy's Chips always taste better by the seaside, and the ones served at Boofy's are no exception. Expect generous portions, golden chips, and perfectly-cooked fish. This chip shop, which featured in the BBC comedy Gavin and Stacey, offers gluten-free chips every day. However, gluten-free fish is only available on weekends and must be ordered in advance. Where: 2 Western Arcade, Barry CF62 5TQ 16. O'Shea's Nowadays, O'Shea's and Boofy's are situated adjacent to one another, both renowned for their delicious fish and chips. Some patrons may be loyal to one shop, while others might alternate visits or make a spontaneous decision. Either way, those visiting Barry Island won't be disappointed when choosing between the Western Arcade pair. Where: 1 Western Arcade, Barry CF62 5TQ 17. Hennighan's Top Shop As a family-run enterprise, this fish and chip shop has consistently served high-quality food with impeccable customer service for over four decades. From its humble beginnings in a converted corner shop, the business has continued to impress multiple generations of customers in Machynlleth. Where: 123 Heol Maengwyn, Machynlleth SY20 8EF Hennighan's Top Shop (Image: Hennighan's Top Shop/Facebook ) 18. Chippy Dre-Sglod a Cod With a glowing review, calling it the "best fish and chips in Gwynedd" from one TripAdvisor user and boasting an unrivaled five-star rating, this fish and chip shop exceeds customer expectations. Where: 11-13 Church Street, Tremadog LL49 9RA 19. Fish Kitchen 1854 Having transformed from an abandoned Chinese restaurant, the updated establishment has evolved into this chic, family-friendly fish and chip shop, a place that seems to have resonated well within the community. Reviews praised both the culinary delights and the outstanding service. Menu highlights include crispy prawn offerings, fishcakes, and locally-grown onion rings. Also, look out for gluten-free dinner nights. Where: 58 Main Road, Maesycwmmer, Hengoed 20. Johnnies If you're a local to Mumbles, you're likely a regular at Johnnies, a true gem of a fish and chip shop that's an unmissable spot. Expect to join a queue, particularly on weekends, but the wait is rewarded with generous portions served in boxes and curry sauce that's simply perfect; a real hit with families. Where: 2a Chapel Street, Mumbles, Swansea, SA3 4NH 21. The Posh Fish and Chip Company For scrumptious fish dishes and friendly service, The Posh Fish and Chip Company in Cardiff is a must-visit venue. Fine options include succulent lobster and homemade fishcakes made in-house. Where: 1, Llantrisant Road Retail Park, Llantrisant Rd, Cardiff CF5 2BF 22. Plassey Fish Bar Seeking a hefty helping of splendidly fried fish and chips? Make your way to Plassey Fish Bar, just off Penarth's High Street. One happy customer wrote on their Facebook page: "The best chip shop in Penarth when you see a queue down the street you know it's going to be good and the staff are nice I wouldn't go anywhere else. 5 stars." Where: 87 Plassey Street, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan CF64 1EP 23. Les and Rita's Fish Bar Recognised by The Times as one of the UK's top fish and chip shops, Les and Rita's has been a staple for over 50 years, perfecting their craft of delivering top-notch fish and chips. The establishment was lauded for its traditional fish supper with bread that is neither "artisan nor sourdough", and its nostalgic décor. Chris Haslam, The Times' travel editor, wrote about the 55-year-old chippy: "Les and Rita Pidduck began selling chip suppers in Rhyl 55 years ago and the contemporary art adorning the walls of their shop on Wellington Road, a mere 10-minute stroll from the promenade, does little to alter the feeling that you've stepped back into the Swinging Sixties.... opting for takeaway would be missing out here. Instead, choose a booth - crafted from authentic vinyl and genuine Formica - and order a sit-down supper of fish, chips, mushy peas and bread that is neither artisan nor sourdough." Where: 28 Wellington Rd, Rhyl LL18 1BN 24. Yan's Fish Bar, Cardiff The chip shop in Cardiff has been dishing out proper traditional fish and chips since 1969, priding itself on using the freshest ingredients, sourced locally wherever possible. Their curry gravy and batter mix are unique to their kitchen. Where: 182 Whitchurch Rd, Cardiff CF14 3NB Yans Fish Bar 25. Page's Fish and Chips With nearly seven decades of experience, this establishment is a treasure trove of knowledge when it comes to crispy calamari, Thai crab cakes, and breaded whitebait. Where: Woodside Road, Cwmbran NP44 3EW (also a branch in Sebastopol!) 26. Finney's at The Golden Fry Catering to gluten-free diets with everything from vinegar to batter, The Golden Fry stands out for its fresh, sustainable fish and specials like battered smoked haddock, not to mention their new burger range. A chippy tea from here is sure to be a hit. They also have another location in Amlwch. Where: The Square, Benllech, Anglesey, LL74 8SN/1 Quay St, Amlwch Port, Amlwch LL68 9HD 27. Ship Deck As for the chips... : "Ship Deck's chips tasted good and we had a generous portion of them." Where: Newport Road, Trethomas, Caerphilly CF83 8BR Ryan Hughes of Ship Deck (Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne ) 28. Catch Cymru Tucked away halfway down a tranquil back street in the heart of town, this Welsh fish bar 'with a difference' may be inconspicuously located, but its reputation is anything but hidden. Since opening, it has become the talk of the town, propelled by glowing word-of-mouth recommendations. Online reviews from thrilled customers speak volumes. "Gorgeous breaded sea bass and homemade tartare sauce, haddock burger delicious and best chips I've eaten in ages. Will definitely be back," one customer wrote. Another review said: "Honestly the nicest fish and chips I've had! We also tried the halloumi fries on the side and the homemade coleslaw - both were beautiful. Would 100% recommend - well worth the trip up from Swansea!". Where: Red Lion Lane, Guildhall Square, Carmarthen SA31 1PN Catch Cymru (Image: Catch Cymru ) 29. Enoch's With a blend of "new skool attitude" and "old skool roots", Enoch's, an award-winning fish and chip shop in North Wales, boasts a rich history dating back to 1969 when it was first opened by fish merchant Arthur Enoch Hughes. Danny White-Meir took the helm in 2006, continuing the legacy with a promise that Enoch's fish and chips offer an unparalleled taste experience. Notably, they claim to be one of the few fish and chip shops globally to fry their food in a special high-oleic sunflower oil, which is heart-friendly. Their thick-cut chips are double-fried to achieve a divine texture. Where: 146 Conwy Road, Conwy, LL31 9DU 30. Ainsworth's Fish and Chip Shop This small chip shop has been recognised amongst the UK's 50 Best Fish and Chip Takeaways and 10 Best Fish and Chip Restaurants 2022/2023 by Fry Magazine. Despite its modest size, it packs a punch with its flavours. Customers have lauded their 'lovely batter' and homemade mushy peas on their own website. Location: 41 Bridge St, Caernarfon LL55 1AF 31. The Lime Crab Offering a fresh take on the fish and chips market, this shop serves up traditional favourites alongside exciting options like lobster, deep-fried halloumi, and tempura-battered prawns. If you're after fish and chips with a twist, this is your spot. They even cater to dietary requirements with gluten-free and vegan options. Location: South John St, New Quay SA45 9NP The Lime Cab (Image: The Lime Cab/Facebook ) 32. Fish Tram Chips Restaurant This licensed café offers classic fish 'n' chips in a relaxed dining room complete with table linen. Situated at the top of a hill opposite the Great Orme Tramway (hence the name), it's well worth the climb. Both locals and tourists love it, and they serve beans and mushy peas in a separate dish to prevent your chips from getting soggy - a thoughtful touch! Location: 24 Old Rd, Llandudno LL30 2NB Article continues below
Pembrokeshire Herald
42 minutes ago
- Pembrokeshire Herald
From Haverfordwest to Kentucky: Rob Edwards relaunches iconic US wrestling brand
THE ENTREPRENEUR behind Haverfordwest County AFC's dramatic rise has now set his sights on the world of professional wrestling – by taking over one of America's most iconic promotions. Rob Edwards, who took control of the Pembrokeshire club in 2019 and steered it from the brink of collapse to European competition, has relaunched Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), the US-based promotion that helped launch the careers of John Cena, Batista, Brock Lesnar and Randy Orton. All Rights Reserved by the photographer, Steve Bainbridge. Any reproduction without prio consent is strictly forbidden. Tel:(+44)7887-982798 Email: info@ Edwards' London-based sports management company, MSM, has taken a controlling stake in OVW, which featured in the popular Netflix documentary Wrestlers. He plans to transform the promotion into what he calls the world's 'top independent wrestling company.' It marks an ambitious new chapter for Edwards, whose story began not with a sports background but with a wine business. Speaking to reporters this week, Edwards said the journey began during lockdown, when he was questioning the future of his company and clicked on a listing for a semi-professional Welsh football club – one with no staff, no players under contract, and gates under 100. Six weeks later, he owned Haverfordwest County. The club has since become one of Welsh football's most compelling success stories. It reached its highest league position in 20 years, secured its first-ever European win in 2023, and qualified again for Europe this year. The club's academy also claimed the FAW Youth Cup and a place in the UEFA Youth League. Now, Edwards is applying the same strategy in Kentucky. He told the Herald: 'It's completely surreal. But it all comes from the same place. I'm obsessed with sport and the positive impact it can have on people's lives. With OVW, I saw the same raw potential that Haverfordwest had when I first took over.' Under Edwards' leadership, OVW has already begun to change. A fan-first strategy has been introduced, a new leadership team put in place, and surveys rolled out to reconnect the brand with its audience. 'There's something visceral about live wrestling,' Edwards said. 'The energy, the storytelling, the crowd – it's all there. But OVW needed a new identity and a fresh plan. That's what we're building.' Comparisons have been drawn with the Hollywood-backed revival of Wrexham AFC, but Edwards is quick to distance himself from the celebrity-driven model. 'I was the first Rob to buy a football club in Wales,' he joked. 'But we're not Wrexham, and I'm not famous. This isn't about nostalgia or cameras. It's about real people, grassroots passion, and creating a lasting legacy through sport.' Edwards says MSM's long-term vision is to own five to seven clubs across different sports – each rooted in its community, with strong commercial backing. OVW, he says, is a cornerstone of that plan. 'We're not just bringing OVW back,' he said. 'We want to show the world what modern wrestling can be – and build something that lasts.'
Scottish Sun
an hour ago
- Scottish Sun
I'm in £15k worth of debt but STILL have TWO gardeners – people might judge me but they are an essential and a godsend
She previously found herself at the centre of backlash after revealing she used a cleaner too MONEY MATTERS I'm in £15k worth of debt but STILL have TWO gardeners – people might judge me but they are an essential and a godsend Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A WOMAN has caused controversy after revealing she still uses two gardeners - despite being in £15,000 worth of debt. Megan previously found herself sparking backlash when she admitted she still employs a cleaner, despite her financial situation. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Megan took to TikTok to explain the reasons behind her decision to keep on two gardeners despite being in £15,000 of debt Credit: TikTok / @megansmithevans 3 As she insisted she just couldn't manage it on her own Credit: TikTok / @megansmithevans And now she's revealed she also enlists the help of not one, but two gardeners. However, in a video on her TikTok page, Megan said she wouldn't be able to look after her two gardens and giant hedge on her own. "We have quite a big front garden and then we have a 60 foot hedge and then we have a back garden, and I just cannot be doing that myself," she said. She added that she "really, really got into" gardening herself during the Covid-19 lockdown, but when she went back to work it was "impossible to stay on top of it". "So I hired gardeners and they are a godsend," Megan said. "We have two for half an hour every two weeks. "They are so good, they get everything done, they get the whole lawn done, they get all of the hedges done, they get all the weeding done. "And it means that I don't have to worry about it and I can come back enjoy my garden and it's just done!" Megan also said the gardeners are "really cheap", as they first used them when they weren't "that established", so they paid a minimal amount and the gardeners have never increased it for them. "So yeah, what do you think about having gardeners when paying off debt?" she sighed. I racked up £15k debt - here's how I paid it off as a single mum "I'm going to get crucified for this because when I admitted to having cleaners and I don't have a cleaner now but when I did say I had a cleaner the Internet went wild!" "This will definitely be a controversial one!" she wrote in the video caption. "What do you think about having gardeners when in debt & paying it off?! "They're something I really considered stopping at the start of this journey but don't think I ever could!" However, the majority of people in the comments section admitted they agreed with Megan that gardeners were worth paying out for. "I've got one. It's out of necessity," one wrote. How to cut the cost of your debt IF you're in large amounts of debt it can be really worrying. Here are some tips from Citizens Advice on how you can take action. Check your bank balance on a regular basis - knowing your spending patterns is the first step to managing your money Work out your budget - by writing down your income and taking away your essential bills such as food and transport If you have money left over, plan in advance what else you'll spend or save. If you don't, look at ways to cut your costs Pay off more than the minimum - If you've got credit card debts aim to pay off more than the minimum amount on your credit card each month to bring down your bill quicker Pay your most expensive credit card sooner - If you have more than one credit card and can't pay them off in full each month, prioritise the most expensive card (the one with the highest interest rate) Prioritise your debts - If you've got several debts and you can't afford to pay them all it's important to prioritise them Your rent, mortgage, council tax and energy bills should be paid first because the consequences can be more serious if you don't pay Get advice - If you're struggling to pay your debts month after month it's important you get advice as soon as possible, before they build up even further Groups like Citizens Advice and National Debtline can help you prioritise and negotiate with your creditors to offer you more affordable repayment plans. "I cannot physically maintain my garden. I go without many things so I can afford him because the stress of it looking a state would do me in!" "Me and my husband have a hedge the same, the effort and time it takes to cut ourselves is just ridiculous and it never looks straight!" another added. "Paying someone to come and do it with proper tools and knowledge is so much better and it takes them a fraction of the time, and they clean it all away after." "Some things are worth paying for. it would likely take you longer than them too," a third wrote. "Oh god soooo much longer!" Megan replied. "Took me 3 hours to just do the hedge once and it looked awful hahah." "Absolutely do it," someone else urged. While another admitted: "I get my nails done every month! I owe £13,500. "I'm not giving up my nails!!"
