Blow away those end-of-summer blues... spoil yourself!

We may be basking in an unexpected Indian Summer, but the cold nights remind us that winter is just around the corner - and there's no escape.

Just the time to cheer yourself up with a bit of pampering - and you needn't stray outside Okehampton to find just what you need to make the approaching chill more bearable. First, here's a few ideas for the ladies... I'll deal with the fellas later (who have quite different needs!).

For the all-round feel-good factor, head for Phoenix Health Club at Fatherford Farm (and judging by their Facebook page, many of you already have). Here you can get fit (OK, that's a longer-term aim) but also have the full pampering works from nails upwards (??), rounded off with a sauna and/or steam bath. If you feel the need to build the fitness and well-being, they'll set you up with a personal trainer to keep you on the straight and narrow.

Looking for more specialist pamperers, I rang the number given and the phone was answered with one word. "Heavenly!" Now that really does raise expectations, and by all accounts they are fulfilled by this small but perfectly-formed salon. The Heavenly Beauty Salon operates from the Town Hall and offers a full range of treatments.

At least one Okehampton People member highly recommends the Dymond Beauty Salon over the road in West Street. They also offer everything a girl could need to feel good about themselves - and ready to face the gathering winter storms.

So now you look good, feel good, and are ready for another treat. How about a meal in one of the country's top restaurants? We're lucky to have one on our doorstep, at Gidleigh Park. They say "Exquisite dining has long been an integral part of the Gidleigh Park experience our restaurant is considered one of the finest in the country, and holds 2 Michelin stars with Michael Caines MBE at the helm as Executive Head Chef", and the world agrees. Not a cheap night out, but one to remember. Have a look at the menu and imagine...

Only a little lower down the food chain is the Dartmoor Inn at Lydford. Their menu also gets the mouth watering and reads like something from the Masterchef finals.

Right, chaps. You've paid for the pampering and the meal, so it must be your turn. Let's start with a ticket to the match. (We'll have to leave Okie for this. As much as I enjoy watching Argyle and the Rugby Club, they're not quite in the Special Treat league!)

Exeter Chiefs are now in Rugby's Premiership, with some of the world's top players on show. Tickets range from £22-£39 and can be bought on line. There are plenty still available for the Newcastle Falcons game on 18th September.

If you prefer the round ball, you can watch Exeter City for £11-£23 - and also book on-line.

After the match? Have a few pints and a pub meal with the lads. The Taw River Inn in Sticklepath could be just the place, with very reasonably priced beer and a straightforward value for money menu (plus a TV showing sport). The Pretoria in North Street is also sports-minded... and you might catch a live band, too.

He'll come home with a smile on his face, girls - now it's over to you...

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