Bedfordshire issue 32

BEDFORD & MILTON KEYNES FEBRUARY - APRIL 2013 EDITION 32

David Hasselhoff THE HOFF’S GOT TALENT

The Hairy Bikers

DELICIOUS & HEALTHY RECIPES

10 Ways

HOW THE PERFECT SMILE STUDIOS CAN HELP YOU

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How to have a comfortable mouth with a beautiful natural smile that suits As we get older we are often faced with a whole plethora of ailments. One of the most frustrating is our inability to enjoy the simpler things in life like our favourite foods because our mouths are not as they should be. Some people suffer from loose dentures which cause ulcers and the inability to chew food properly; others suffer from unsightly teeth that are often dark, painful and embarrassing; and many others suffer from bad gums which tend to bleed frequently and loosen teeth. Well, if you are suffering from any of these problems or even if your self-esteem and confidence has been hurt, then let me tell you there is light at the end of your tunnel. You can now have a beautiful natural looking smile with teeth that are fixed and strong. At The Perfect Smile Studios & Institute we are dedicated to creating mouths that look great, feel great and function to your satisfaction. We want you to look better…not different!

Also, the best thing about this is that it doesn’t matter what your mouth is like right now! We can offer a wide range of treatments and services that will have you BEFORE AFTER feeling back to your normal self in no time at all. So come for a FREE Personal Consultation and let us talk to you about how we can help you. Call us on 01992 552115.

We create exacting smiles using our Signature Complete Care Assessment program. This is an intensive highly detailed assessment that can last up to 3 or 4 hours. It involves for the most part Dr. Doshi using various state of the art diagnostics and understanding the details of your mouth. As a patient it is a very comfortable exercise and our customer care team will be on hand at all times to cater for your every need. You will also be able to enjoy our relaxation suite with refreshments as a break whilst Dr. Doshi does some very sophisticated treatment planning.

How do The Perfect Smile Studios & Institute create your Perfect Smile?

1. We have a detailed comprehensive evaluation and assessment process. This allows us to completely understand your every need and requirement.

2. Personalised Treatment Planning. Once we understand the type of smile you are looking for we then generate a customized treatment plan of action. This incorporates cosmetic dentistry techniques that allow us to create that stunning smile that will be yours.

3. We do mockups on your teeth that are completely removable. They allow you to see the type of smile that would work for you.

4. We provide Free Computerised Smile Imaging. See your smile before you have anything done to understand which look suits you best.

5. We show you and discuss with you previously done similar cases to decipher your exact wants. We have found looking at different cases that are similar to you helps you to choose a smile makeover that you like.

6. We create stunning Trial Smiles. Dr. Doshi lectures regularly on this subject. The trial smile is another opportunity for you to see how you like your smile to be.

It gives you the opportunity to “try-out” your new smile for a time. This way you can see your new look and smile in the comfort of your own home and get opinions from your family and friends if you wish. Dr. Doshi is then able to make alterations in your smile according to your exact and precise requirements.

7. We work in partnership with you to develop the exact smile you want.

8. Treatment does not end until you are fully satisfied. Aesthetic treatment is not completed until you are happy with the cosmetic outcome.

2

Dr. Rahul Doshi works with a team of highly skilled dentists and specialists at The Perfect Smile Studios & Advanced Training Institute.

He is a highly acclaimed, award winning leading UK Cosmetic Dental Surgeon, who works with the TV media on various makeovers, the most popular of them being Extreme Makeover UK and Britains Worst Teeth.

He has also been extensively featured in the National Press including The Times, The Independent, The Daily Mail, The Guardian, Tatler and various other magazines. He is an international lecturer on many aspect of clinical dentistry and is author to many associated articles in the dental press. He has now taught over 5000 dentists on clinical dentistry. He helps the dental profession through his editorship with the main dental professional publication and is a board director at the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Any patient seen by Dr. Doshi or any of his partners will be in extremely good hands. The entire team will also be present to make sure your visits to the studios are as pleasant and relaxing as possible.

10 Ways How The Perfect Smile Studios Can Help YOU 1. Our Signature Complete Comprehensive Detailed Assessments. This means that you have the confidence and trust that you will be given the best advice regarding suitable treatment solutions that meet your needs perfectly and satisfactorily.

2. Outstanding Customer Service. We are committed to looking after you in every way we can. We offer a range of complimentary services to make your visit with us as enjoyable and comfortable as possible. These include painless injections, aromatherapy, your choice of relaxing music on digital wireless headphones and a hand held buzzer so that you can stop treatment at any time and much more.

3. An Empathic and Understanding Approach. Many of our patients are aged 50 and over. We always take our time to listen to your needs and understand your previous dental experiences.

4. Hand-Made Cosmetic Strong and Stable Dentures.

Working with award-winning leading dental technicians enables us to create beautiful, natural looking dentures that are comfortable and amazingly lifelike!

5. Denture Alternatives. We can offer a combination of treatments (including Dental Implants) that allow us to replace missing teeth in a predictable manner giving you back your confidence. You can now avoid the embarrassment of loose dentures and restore your chewing ability. Have teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth.

6. Finance Plans. We offer flexible financial help with a leading company that specializes in financing for dental patients. This means you can afford a larger investment in your dental care by paying in small instalments over an extended period of time. We even offer interest-free loans over 12 months!

7. Special Techniques for Nervous Patients. For patients who are anxious, we offer relaxation sedation techniques or hypnosis to help with overcoming your fears. This allows you to have the important treatment you need in a totally comfortable manner. Indeed, there are now cosmetic treatments available to you whereby minimal preparation or no drilling is necessary of your teeth using our special Ultrathin Veneers techniques.

8. Pain-Free, Injection-Free, Drill-Free Laser Dentistry.

We are one of the few practices in the UK that have a comprehensive range of dental lasers. These are used in many ways for our patients offering the very latest in dental technology.

9. Unique Ambience. Our Hertford Studios do not look and feel like a dental practice. We have a warm friendly atmosphere with so many small touches for your comfort and care.

10. Confidence and Trust. This is perhaps the most important reason. Dr. Doshi and his partners will advise and guide you as though you were their own family member. You will become part of our patient family where we will continue to respect your long-term dental care.

Award winning celebrity cosmetic dentist Dr. Rahul Doshi of The Perfect Smile Studios & Advanced Training Institute says: “ We have treated many people in our practice, at the institute and also on the TV programmes like Extreme Makeover UK. It is amazing to see the transformation in people when they have increased inner confidence due to having corrective comprehensive dental treatment. People can easily look 10 years younger. So now they can LOOK like they FEEL”

Special Promotion for Readers • • • •

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FREE Personal Consultations (WORTH £175.00) FREE Scan Radiograph to assess your dental health (WORTH £75.00) FREE Computerised Photographic Cosmetic Analysis and Advice (WORTH £79.00) FREE Smile Imaging for you to preview your teeth.

Call us on 01992 552115 and talk to us about your dental needs or go to www.theperfectsmile.co.uk for more special offers and information.

The Perfect Smile Studios and Institute, 7/9 South Street Hertford, Herts SG14 1AZ

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Discover the Marston Vale Line!

Bedford - Bletchley by rail, the scenic route The Marston Vale Line between Bedford and Bletchley offers an opportunity to view some wonderful countryside at your leisure and there is plenty of history along the way.

In Bedford take a walk along the River Great Ouse or discover its wide range of shops. In the heart of Bedford there is the John Bunyan Museum and also fantastic markets most days of the week. The John Bunyan Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 19th February to 2nd November 2013. Free entry. Groups are welcome throughout the open and closed season by prior arrangement, tours can be daytime or evening and a range of refreshments can be organised. The Higgins Art Gallery and Museum will re-open in Spring 2013 with brand new displays telling the story of Beford.

Millbrook is the ideal place to explore the spectacular Millenium County Park at the heart of the Forest of Marston Vale. It’s a pleasant walk or cycle ride on surfaced paths to the Forest Centre with it’s superb shop and restaurant. Cycles can be hired from here to explore the Forest or the nearby Route 51 of the National Cycle Network.

Aspley Guise is the home of HULA Animal Rescue, just a few minutes walk from the railway station, open six days a week. There are a number of resident animals such as pigs, cows and sheep, in addition to pets waiting for new homes. Light refreshments on sale. Meals available at the Anchor in the village centre.

Woburn Sands is an attractive town with two large garden centres a short walk from the station.

The Grand Union Canal passes through Fenny Stratford, also the home of MK Dons FC. Also the Tecton Gallery - a new independent, non-profit, contemporary art gallery showcasing original work by local artists just a few minutes walk from the station. Free entry! Bletchley, at the other end of the Marston Vale Line, is a real enigma, but with Bletchley Park on the doorstep of the station you will easily break the code! Enjoy shopping at Bletchley Town Centre with its tree lined streets and huge diversity of shops, cafés and restaurants, with Bletchley Market on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Change trains at Bletchley for the short journey to the new city of Milton Keynes where there is a wealth of shops and attractions, including some impressive urban park lands and sculptures. Also change at Bletchley for the short Senio r Saver journey to Leighton Buzzard, a traditional market town with a large 50% discount for Bedfordsh number of independent shops. ire Concessiona The Line has an exciting programme of events and activities ry Travel Pass throughout the year. Be the first to receive details by signing Holders on of fup to our FREE e-bulletin or postal bulletin; simply visit GroupS peak journeys ! a v e www.marstonvalecommunityrail.org.uk Ticket Up to 4 or call 01234 832645 to sign up.

Marston Vale Railway Walks Guide A series of seven walks suitable for all abilities through beautiful countryside, each starting and finishing at a Marston Vale Line station.

Contact us for your FREE copy.

For further information please contact: Stephen Sleight Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity The Old School, Cardington, Bedford MK44 3SX.

01234 832645 E-mail stephens@bedsrcc.org.uk

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Door to Door Coach, Air & Cruise Holidays 2013

Dutch Bulbfields & Keukenhof 12 - 16 April 2013 5 Days from ÂŁ465 Every year, the myriad of flowers, especially the tulips, come to life in an extraordinary explosion of colour with a multitude of different hues and shades. We enjoy a tour to the Dutch Bulbfields and combine a visit to Keukenhof gardens and a cruise on the Kaager lakes.

Apollo Hotel, Breda This 4 star hotel is located in the centre of the city, which is awash with history and architecture. The bars, restaurants and shopping areas are a short stroll away. Each of the bedrooms has a TV and hairdryer. The hotel also has a lift Door to Door service, Air Conditioned Coach travel, 4 nights Half Board Accommodation, Excursions as listed, Entrance to Keukenhof Gardens & boat cruise on Kaager Lakes, Luggage porterage from start to finish, Complimentary pint of milk and a loaf of bread on your return.

Please contact us for your free brochure and more information on all Tours or visit our website: www.druryholidays.co.uk

The Drury family have over 50 years experience in the coach travel industry. Now in the second generation the business is run using the same values installed when established in 1959. As a small independent holiday company, we pride ourselves on giving each and every customer a personal service. From the moment you make a booking to the final good bye after your tour, we expect to give you the very best in service.

Blairgowrie, Perthshire & Royal Deeside 20 - 24 May 2013 5 Days from ÂŁ385 Blairgowrie is a perfect base to tour the whole of Perthshire. The area has become famed for its soft fruit and raspberries in particular. We make a visit to the Queens estate at Balmoral, The Queens View and Edradour Distillery.

Angus Hotel, Blairgowrie This traditionally stlyed Scotish 3 star hotel is located in the centre of this delightful town. The hotel has good leisure facilities including an excellent indoor swimming pool. Each of the bedrooms has a TV and hairdryer. The hotel also has a lift however some rooms may have 1 or 2 steps up to them Door to Door service, Air Conditioned Coach travel, 4 nights Half Board Accommodation, Excursions as listed, Entrance to Scone Palce, Balmoral & Edradour Distillery, Luggage porterage from start to finish, Complimentary pint of milk and a loaf of bread on your return.

Many more tours available in our Coach Holiday brochure, including, Mystery Weekends, Worthing, Orkney Mini Cruise, Northumbria, Manchester Ship Canal Cruise, Lake Maggiore, Yorkshire plus many more. Please call 01234 711318 for your colour brochure

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MALTA Travel to a touch of England in the Med

By Peter Lynch Journalist, rail and wildlife specialist, contributor to Great Train Journeys of the World and Silver Travel Advisor

Malta is a fabulous Mediterranean destination especially if you dislike the hassle of foreign languages.

Everyone speaks good to perfect English yet Malta retains all the charm of the Mediterranean.

bureaucrats have forced the withdrawal of the famous orange vintage Leyland and Bedford buses.

The universality of English is down to Malta being part of the British Empire from 1814 until 1964 but strangely it was not one of the Empires conquests. In the Napoleonic era Malta was between a rock and a hard place - at risk of being invaded by the French and the Russians. It opted for the protection of the British Empire and subsequently played a crucial role in defeating Rommel’s Afrika Korps in North Africa during WWII.

The Upper Barrakka Gardens provide a must-see harbour and city view and the Grand Master’s palace and armoury is a must. Don’t be put off by the plain exterior of St John cathedral; it belies a fabulous Baroque interior and a famous painting by Caravaggio.

It’s a tiny place, significantly smaller than the Isle of Wight, with a familiar yet foreign ambience. They have the highest density of catholic priests outside the Vatican City, produce and explode more fireworks per head than anywhere else on earth and eat an unbelievable number of rabbits.

Of course, they drive on the left and something I love is how it’s kept some of the classic images from my childhood – old red telephone boxes, red post boxes and blue lights outside police stations. Sadly EU 8

The World Heritage listed capital of Valletta is Europe’s first planned city, laid out in a grid system of streets and alleyways. The Knights of St John built it on a peninsula as a defence against the Turks during the sixteenth century.

Valletta’s real charm is its ambience, so it’s important to sit in an outdoor cafe and soak up the palpable sense of history rather than just rushing around the sites –the perfect excuse for loafing.

But all this is just recent history; Malta’s prehistoric megalithic temples are older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids. It’s a dream destination for historians and reads like a textbook of western civilisation, probably with more human history packed into its122 sq miles than anywhere else on earth.

There are 23 prehistoric sites dating back 6,000 years including the impressive megalithic temples of Taraxien and Hagar Qim but the subterranean www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Valletta’s real charm is its ambience, so it’s important to sit in an outdoor cafe and soak up the palpable sense of history... on Malta en-route to Rome and his indelible legacy of Christianity is still evident in the islands 360 churches.

The marks of Norman and Arab conflicts are everywhere on the island, culminating with the spectacular city of Valletta built by the Knights of St John in 1566. Malta’s history rolls on involving the Spanish Empire; Napoleon predictably turned up and of course the British.

But its not history that makes Malta one of the UK’s favourite holiday destinations - it’s the glorious weather, the friendly people, the Mediterranean lifestyle and the convenience of English speakers.

When Malta’s history, shopping and nightlife pall the 20-minute ferry across to Gozo is like moving to another country. It is Malta’s exclusive hideaway island with a pastoral ambience compared to Malta’s brasher tourist developments. Everything runs at a slower pace on Gozo.

hypogeum of Hal Saflieni is perhaps the most breathtaking. It is the only known underground prehistoric temple.

Not much is known about these ancient temple builders or their mysterious parallel ‘cart tracts’ gouged into the limestone. They’ve been likened to a complex railway junction (Clapham Junction) because they criss-cross the landscape and some even disappear off the edge of the cliff - creating an endless source of myths and legends.

Homer’s Odyssey tells of Ulysses being shipwrecked on the nearby island of Gozo where Calypso captivated him on his journey back from Troy to Ithaca in Greece.

Then there are the Phoenicians from the Biblical cities of Tyre and Sidon who traded and settled Malta until ousted by the Roman’s. St Paul was also shipwrecked

The islands capital of Rabat was renamed Victoria in 1897 to commemorate the Queen’s Diamond jubilee but its still the beautiful quant town of alleyways, cafes and little shops it always was. The imposing walled citadel sheltered people from the marauding corsairs who plagued island communities throughout the Mediterranean.

Gozo has its share of prehistoric monuments such as the Ggantija temple - supposedly built by giantesses and more mysterious ‘cart ruts’.

The impressive Romanesque Basilica of Ta Pinu dominates the Gozitan skyline and has become a local shrine with a Lourdes-like status for miracle cures.

Inside the walls are adorned with artificial limbs and other relics left by grateful pilgrims.

So don’t bother with a history book in Malta, just stroll around and let it all seep in, and between momentous historical events you’ll be able to find a perfect pasta and a decent pint of beer.

Silver Travel Advisor is a travel review, information and advice website exclusively for over 50’s, packed with articles, suggestions, tips and ideas. For free and independent travel advice as well as reviews about holidays, hotels, restaurants and days out, please visit www.silvertraveladvisor.com or email service@silvertraveladvisor.com. It’s free to register as a member of Silver Travel Advisor, and you could win a fabulous holiday prize.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

9

HAVING A TWITTER with Graham Smith Born to be King or Queen Well didn’t that cause a media kerfuffle? No sooner had the ink dried on Lord Justice Leveson’s pen to give the British press a kick in the rear when all hell breaks loose as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge announced that Kate is expecting. No doubt as the new year wears on there will be many more scramblings and in summer expect carnage as the race is on for the first picture of the newborn.

Cameramen and reporters were almost killed in the media scrum to take up pole position outside King Edward VII hospital where the Duchess had been admitted with morning sickness in the early stages of her pregnancy. Why do they do it? All they are going to see is a hospital door for goodness sake. Kate’s hardly likely to come tripping down in her nightie to pose for pictures in between retching, is she?

Some of the words which come out of media mouths on such occasions can make you equally sick. Charged with filling three minutes on the main news they come out with all manner of tripe. Under new laws, even if this baby is a girl, it will be third in line of succession to the throne. Bearing in mind the longevity of the Royal Family I reckon she could be around 87 before she comes to the throne and I certainly don’t think I’ll be at the street party to celebrate.

One conversation between media types discussed what would happen if she had twins. Eventually the concensus was that the first child to emerge would be third in line to the throne. Fascinating, they go to college for this you know.

It’s been over 2,000 years since we had such fervour over an impending birth, and look at the trouble that caused. Every guest house was closed and the poor beggar ended up in a stable jostling for position with cows, sheep, singing shepherds, camels, a donkey and a confused surrogate father who claimed he hadn’t done anything to Mary anyway! (Oh dear, there will be letters).

Joking apart, good luck to the Royal couple, they were one of the few bright spots in the year 2012 and let’s hope the chastised media minds its manners with them and their future family as we go into 2013.

Dogs in the driving seat Given that they have usually four perfectly good legs why would you want to teach a dog to drive?

A New Zealand animal charity is doing just that because it reckons that owners will be more encouraged to adopt them if they show signs of increased intelligence.

Right then. I’ll admit it’s handy if you’re out to a party and don’t want to drive.

Instead of your wife you could take the dog to drive you home but if the police stop you don’t count on being home before morning, they will have questions.

The charity put Porter, Mont and Ginny behind the wheel of an adapted Mini Cooper and after just eight weeks are reported to have put it in gear, accelerate and steer, something which is beyond many humans after they have passed their test!

So far the dogs have been driving with the help of an assistant inside the car but the next move is to let them try solo, on live television. Simon Cowell wait for this. According to an instructor, they will hop in, start the car, put it in gear and use the accelerator. Thankfully this is being done on an off-road track but the charity has visions of carrying it further.

When I see a Jack Russell driving a Mini Cooper down the motorway I will know it’s time to hand in my licence.

When Irish eyes are smiling!

We recently rented out a property after receiving quite a bit of Internet interest but it was the last enquiry which made me chuckle. It said simply by text, “Would you consider renting to an Irish escort?”

I didn’t reply and the following day received another text with a link to the escort’s web site. Checking, as you do, I was staggered at the rates she was charging, £170 an hour….she could certainly have paid the rent!

10

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The Hoff ’s GOT TALENT For a man who hit 60 not long ago David Hasselhoff – better known as simply The Hoff – has continued the swashbuckling ways he began as a young actor.

Known to millions across the world as good guy Michael Knight, the man with the talking car in iconic science fiction series “Knight Rider” which was the most watched TV show in history, the actor became a hero.

He compounded the image with another blockbuster of the small screen, “Baywatch”, where he played lifeguard Mitch Buchannon and saved even more lives.

The pirate with the interesting hand ornament and overdose of self-confidence, however, is a million miles from the young David Hasselhoff.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, David first got the theatrical bug at the age of seven and took acting, singing and dancing lessons. He was, however, very shy off stage in front of girls because he was tall and thin. On stage, though, he was in his element.

Unsurprisingly, acting became his career and, while in California, he became successful on the hugely popular US TV series “The Young and the Restless” in 1973 as Dr William “Snapper” Foster Jr. By then, he’d developed heartthrob looks and a physique to match.

In 1982 he moved from daytime soap to prime time programming with “Knight Rider” which captured the public’s imagination not only in the States but across the world.

His swashbuckling action is on the side of the baddies rather than the goodies as he became the notorious Captain Hook in perennial panto favourite “Peter Pan” for an extended run at Manchester’s Opera House.

When that show ended, Hasselhoff launched a successful recording career in Europe. In 1989 “Looking for Freedom” remained in the No.1 spot in the German charts for eight consecutive weeks. He has continued to perform regularly in concert ever since and has released nine albums to date, scoring a UK single hit in 2006 with “Jump In My Car”.

He returned to episodic TV in 1989 in “Baywatch” – the series about California lifeguards which launched Pamela Anderson to superstardom and made red one-piece swimming costumes the coolest beachwear on the planet.

Although the programme enjoyed good ratings, the network cancelled it after only one series. Undeterred, Hasselhoff and his partners acquired the rights to the 12

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INTERVIEW

show and, based on his popularity overseas, secured funding and revived “Baywatch” in 1991.

The programme is still running and is now a piece of American culture, seen in 140 countries by more than one billon viewers each week.

David Hasselhoff has always been prepared to try new challenges and his lengthy acting career has included film and stage roles. He made his Broadway debut in 2000 in the title role of “Jekyll and Hyde” and played the lead role in London performances of “Chicago.”

He’s sufficiently down-to-earth to parody himself – even taking a major role in the children’s blockbuster film “The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie” in 2004 where he meets SpongeBob and Patrick very much in his “Baywatch” persona.

He had a short appearance in the movie “DodgeBall”, was in “EuroTrip” and played Adam Sandler’s despicable boss in the 2006 film “Click”.

The same year, he portrayed Roger DeBris in the Las Vegas production of Mel Brooks’ famous show “The Producers”.

His star was certainly in the ascendancy during this time as he also became a judge on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent”, taking a judging role in the second, third and fourth seasons alongside Sharon Osburne and Piers Morgan.

Hasselhoff also has an uncanny knack of spotting trends and opportunities. In 2008, “The Hoff” became the first celebrity downloadable character for the PlayStation Network’s video game “Pain”.

And the following year, he began a TV love affair with the British public through two-part special “The Hoff: When Scott Came To Stay” which chronicled how radio presenter Scott Mills lived for four days with Hasselhoff at his Californian mansion.

The star and his two daughters, Taylor and Hayley, took part in another British TV reality show when they went ghost-hunting at Tutbury Castle in Staffordshire.

And in 2011, The Hoff – always a big favourite in the UK - returned to British TV as a judge on “Britain’s Got Talent”.

He’s been a contestant on America’s “Dancing with the Stars” and, to demonstrate his theatrical diversity, in 2011 took on the dastardly pirate role in “Peter Pan” for the first time.

Hasselhoff is a true Anglophile, has often brought his daughters here and his 32 year-old girlfriend, Hayley Roberts, is Welsh. At 6ft 4ins and with one of the most recognisable faces in the world that appears to be defeating the ravages of time, he’s still hugely popular wherever he goes.

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He’s a big fan of Manchester, and has been reported as saying he wants to enjoy shopping in the city and see a play during his stay. “I love the Manchester accent and I can’t believe how beautiful and hip the city is,” he said.

“When I was in town for ‘Britain’s ~Got Talent’, Louis Walsh said to me ‘you’ll love Manchester’ and I did. The city is very, very cool and European.”

He describes his panto role as “The Hook gone Hoff” and there’s no doubt audiences will enjoy what is bound to be an entertaining stint by this enthusiastic performer.

As for where his career takes him next, David Hasselhoff appears to be accepting of where the theatrical fates send him. Likeable and larger than life, he is pragmatic about his work and was once reported as saying: “I may not be a big movie star who gets to be James Bond, but who cares? I am happy. I’ll leave it in God’s hands.”

Photos: Shutterstock.com

13

CHANGING ROOMS IN THE HOME IS SOMETHING MANY OF US LONG TO DO BUT ARE HAMPERED BY THOSE TWIN PROBLEMS: LACK OF MONEY AND LACK OF KNOWLEDGE.

Writes Angela Kelly

We may know what we DON’T want around us, but probably have only a vague idea of what we do.

The way we proceed next tends to relate either to the structure of the house – knocking through to give bigger rooms, adding a conservatory or building an extension – or the interior décor which includes everything from light fittings and wallpaper to furniture and paintings.

BEFORE

BEFORE

For the first, often more sweeping, approach, architectural consultant Gary Willis from Novensus says always remember the importance of light. “Daylight directly affects our wellbeing and living in dark conditions can add to our lethargy,” he states.

Deep rooms can appear dark as AFTER natural daylight can’t penetrate to the furthest reaches, so Gary suggests perhaps adding more windows. If privacy is an issue, consider use opaque window film, opaque glass or even glass blocks. “High level strip windows can also be used to provide natural light without sacrificing privacy,” he adds.

A pitched roof with a flat internal ceiling could be opened up to a more interesting space, enhanced by exposed roof structure and effective roof lights.

“Remove a wall to create an open plan dining/kitchen and a more adaptable space,” says Gary. “Even the removal of a load-bearing wall – one that has a structural purpose – is a relatively straightforward task to a competent builder.”

For bigger projects, consider a garage or loft conversion.

“Only around half of us really utilise our garage,” insists Gary.

“Put this space to good use. Rather than just turning the garage into a room, how about thinking more laterally? Could you use part of the garage to extend an adjacent room to create a larger kitchen, whilst still reserving part of the garage for garden storage, a utility area or a study?”

A conservatory can add both light and space to a home, “but a sun room or orangery is a much better option. It will be insulated to current standards that will provide a usable room in all seasons and ultimately add more value to your home.

“Another alternative is a pre-built garden room which can be brought onto site in one piece, or built quickly in a modular format with limited disturbance.”

Maximise garden views “and minimise rubbish ones!” advises Gary. “Create a cosy oasis of space with a smaller

14

AFTER patio. Dress it up with flower boxes and a beautiful chair or swing to provide visual interest throughout all seasons.”

Indoors, bring in the light with brighter, lighter colours on walls, floors and ceilings to maximise available light. Gloss and satin finishes will reflect more light than dull, dark colours and mirrors can be used imaginatively to bring much-needed light into a room or brighten a dark hallway also giving the illusion of space.

When cash is short, home stylist and project manager Jill Brimley from Changing Spaces advises looking carefully at what you’ve already got and adapting where you can.

“Dark walls can be painted a light, neutral shade like Dulux Natural Calico,” she says.

Take a close look at doors as these can give a dated feel to a room, and invest in new, white ones to add to light. For the Living Room makeover (pictured), Jill also had new panelled cupboard doors made for the meter cupboard. The electrical socket was removed and re-sited to get rid of ugly trailing wires and storage added within the cupboard.

A “gorgeous little chair” was bought from TK Maxx, the dark legs painted in white satin wood. The original curtains were dry cleaned and a new complimentary fabric panel was added to lengthen them to the floor. “Additional fabric was bought to cover existing cushion pads to co-ordinate the look,” says Jill.

She recycled accessories from around the home - “We also decluttered, removed the old carpet and put in new oak wood-style laminate flooring and painted the dark mahogany

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fireplace, mirror and cupboard in white satin wood to provide a brighter and nicer co-ordinated room.”

For this Kitchen makeover on a budget, Jill kept the original units, unifying them to a cream satin wood and then adding freestanding furniture with doors almost identical to the existing units and bought at a clearance shop to add to the fitted look.

Modern inexpensive cream brick tiles were used around the necessary areas, the walls were painted lighter with Dulux’s Javan Dawn, and the original back door was replaced with small French windows to bring in extra light and a view of the garden. Jill also replaced the original work top with a solid oak butcher’s block.

JILL’S TIPS FOR UPDATING ANY EXISTING KITCHEN ARE: •

declutter work surfaces, tops of cupboards and walls

•

Steam clean kitchen area

•

Update white electrical sockets with chrome

•

Replace worktops with new, more modern items and/ or change cupboard doors

•

Inexpensive plain tiles can make the look fresher and more modern

•

Chrome tile trims give a more upmarket look

•

Emulsion the walls to compliment the décor

•

Invest in new floor covering

•

Change the colour of your kettle, toaster etc for instant impact

In the Bedroom, use relaxing light neutral colours. If space is limited, go for sliding wardrobe mirror doors to reflect light back into the room. Shop carefully for complementary

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bargain soft furnishings – go online, visit mill and clearance shops or use sale curtains to make Roman blinds or a bed throw.

“For a contemporary look, change the door handle and light switch to chrome,” adds Jill. “Inset halogen lights in the front and inside of the wardrobe, and upgrade the radiator and radiator cabinet.”

Use old pillows that have flattened as cushion pads or cut up old duvets, and plump up curtains with crumpled tissue paper.

The Bathroom can improve if you knock through an old bathroom and separate toilet into one modern area. Add a heated towel radiator to save on space and for a more stylish look.

It’s worth investing in a combi boiler which gets rid of the old water tank and is more efficient. Try bricking up the original toilet widow externally and reduced it in size internally to give a useful shelf/recess.

Investment in a white modern suite is really worthwhile. Use floor and wall tiles in the same neutral colour but different sizes - bigger tiles with smaller grout lines also give the illusion of space.

And if you struggle to see new potential in your home – call in the experts!

Meet the experts GARY WILLIS Architectural Consultant from Novensus JILL BRIMLEY Home Stylist Changing Spaces

15

Arranging the care of a loved one can be a complex, time consuming and emotional experience. Failure to seek advice could result in the assets of your loved ones being depleted and the person falling back on the state for their care.

The state will provide for those in greatest need but if you have assets of more than £23,250 you may be classed as a ‘self funder’.

Unfortunately many families are not aware that specialist advice is available and if sought could result in more efficient funding arrangements.

Carematters have 2 key objectives: 1. To ensure that the person needing care can receive that care for the remainder of their lives.

2. To preserve as much of that persons assets as possible.

The Carematters team of specialist advisers will work with you and recommend the right financial option for your loved one. There are a number of options open to families, but without the right advice, there is a real risk of the money running out.

Many areas of finance merit forward planning and this is no exception.

One positive step you can take now is to have a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) drawn up. This allows you to take financial and/or health welfare 16

decisions on behalf of your loved one.

Failure to draw up an LPA can result in high fees being incurred. The ability to make decisions and access funds will be delayed resulting in untold anxiety and pressure for all concerned.

EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR 50 PLUS READERS: We will be happy to help you arrange your Lasting Power of Attorney at a discounted price of £225. Our experience, advice and expertise will simplify what can be a complex process. Call 0800 822 3385 to find out more.

One other area of forward planning that you may wish to consider is Funeral Planning. Pre planning your

funeral saves you money and saves your family extra worry and distress. It gives you the freedom to plan things exactly how you would want them.

Carematters specialises in providing financial advice to later life clients.

Each member of the team is an expert in their chosen field. Our expertise in helping families fund care fees is widely recognised.

Each member of the Carematters team have undergone Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks and are members of SOLLA (Society of Later Life Advisors) thus demonstrating our commitment to the sensitive nature of our work. Founders Lorreine Kennedy and Brian Tabor feature regularly in the national press, and Brian has appeared on BBC News and Sky News, Radio 4 Today show and Radio 5 Live.

To find out more about how Carematters can help you, please call: 0800 822 3385 OR EMAIL: advice@carematters-uk.com www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

®

If you are considering the care provision of a relative or friend, you will know how complicated and stressful such a task can be.

Carematters recognise this and provide clear, practical advice. We offer a bespoke service that focuses on those aspects of financial planning which are designed to help you secure your loved one’s care needs and financial security.

Services include: • Funding Care Fees • Estate Preservation • Equity Release • Funeral Plans

CALL FOR YOUR FREE Guide to Care Fees Planning Handbook

The Carematters team are approachable, highly experienced and totally independent. Let us help you to make sense of the complex issues involved, so that you can make an informed decision that is right for you and your family.

0800 822 3385

advice@carematters-uk.com Carematters is a trading style of Carematters Countrywide Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

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HOW TO LOVE FOOD AND LOSE WEIGHT The Bikers set out to discover how to enjoy the best great British food at home, creating new dishes and adapting some culinary treasures to make them and us fitter for life.

THE HAIRY DIETERS: How to Love Food and Lose Weight includes a healthy eating plan with mouth-watering recipes for eating at home, eating out, and of course, entertaining. It is filled with all the dishes that have made Si King and Dave Myers two of the nation’s favourite cooks. From perfect pies, curries, roast dinners and delicious desserts, the Hairy Dieters prove that cooking without the calories doesn’t have to compromise on taste.

LEAN LAMB HOTPOT We’ve always loved this simple old-fashioned dish and this is our new-wave version - who’d have thought it? By trimming the meat well and reducing the amount of potatoes, we’ve made this lower in calories than the trad recipe. Makes a cracking supper on a cold day, served with lots of green veg.

SERVES 4 700g well-trimmed lamb leg meat (or leg steaks) 2 tsp sunflower oil 2 medium onions, peeled and thinly sliced 5 medium carrots, peeled and thickly sliced (about 300g prepared weight) 3 tbsp plain flour 600ml lamb stock, made with 1 lamb stock cube 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 tsp dried thyme 1 rosemary stalk or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper Potato topping 3 medium potatoes (about 500g)

Trim any visible fat off the lamb and cut the meat into rough 3cm chunks. Season generously all over with salt and pepper.

Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan and fry the lamb in 2 batches over a medium-high heat until nicely browned on all sides.

Transfer the browned meat to a medium casserole dish - it will need to hold about 2.5 litres.

Tip the onions and carrots into the pan with the lamb and sprinkle with the flour. Toss everything together well, then pour over the stock and add the thyme leaves, rosemary and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.

438 calories per portion

Preheat the oven to 170oC/Fan 150oC/Gas 31/2. Peel the potatoes and cut them into slices about 5mm thick. Arrange the slices on top of the lamb, overlapping and layering them as you go. Season with ground black pepper and cover with a tight-fitting lid.

Bake the hotpot for 1 hour, then remove the lid and bake for a further 45 minutes or until the potatoes are nicely browned and the lamb is tender. Check by poking with the point of a knife into the centre of the lamb filling - if the meat is done the knife should slide in easily. Serve with freshly cooked greens.

18

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SALMON WITH CHILLI GINGER SAUCE Oily fish such as salmon, is a great choice when you’re watching your weight, but bear in mind that it contains more calories than white fish. It’s a highquality protein, so fills you up, and it is delicious especially when teamed with this sticky, tangy sauce. You need to allow time for the fish to marinate for 30 minutes but once that is done, this is quick and easy to prepare.

SERVES 4 2 balls of stem ginger in syrup (and 2 tablespoons of the syrup) 3 garlic cloves 3 tbsp dark soy sauce finely grated zest of 1/2 well-scrubbed orange freshly squeezed juice of 1 orange (about 125ml) 1/2 long red chilli, thinly sliced 4 x 125 -150g salmon fillets, skin on freshly ground black pepper Put the ginger balls on a board and slice them thinly. Pile up the slices from each ball and cut through them to make thin matchstick strips. Put these in a bowl that’s large enough to hold the salmon and add 2 tablespoons of the stem ginger syrup from the jar. Peel the garlic cloves and slice them thinly, then add them to the bowl with the ginger. Stir in the soy sauce, orange zest, orange juice and red chilli.

254 calories per portion

Put the salmon in the bowl with the marinade. Season with lots of ground black pepper and turn a couple of times, ending with the fish skin side up. Cover and chill for 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 220oC/Fan 200oC/Gas 7. Line a small baking tray with baking parchment. Take the salmon fillets out of the marinade scraping off any bits and pieces, and place them on the tray, skin side down. Season with more ground black pepper.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon.

While the salmon is cooking, prepare the sauce. Pour the marinade into a small non-stick saucepan and bring to the boil. Cook for 6 minutes or until the liquid has reduced and the garlic is softened. You need enough of the marinade to pour over the salmon but not swamp it completely.

Put the salmon fillets on warmed plates, carefully lifting off the skin as you go. Spoon the hot sauce over the salmon and serve with a small portion of rice or new potatoes and some steamed or stir-fried vegetables.

PLUM RICE PUDDING Those little pots of rice pudding you can buy in supermarkets make a nice sweet treat, but they are expensive and they contain lots of sugar. It’s so much cheaper to make your own and really easy. Eat the rice pudding on its own or topped with a fruity compote. We like plums, but use any lightly stewed fruit you like - apples, pears and summer berries all work well.

SERVES 4 100g pudding rice 400ml semi-skimmed milk 200ml cold water 1/4 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp caster sugar (preferably golden) Compote 3 ripe plums, stoned and quartered 6 tbsp cold water 1 tsp caster sugar (preferably golden)

134 calories per portion Put the rice, milk, water and vanilla extract in a medium non-stick saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over a medium heat. Cook for 16-18 minutes or until the rice is tender (with compote) and the sauce is creamy, stirring regularly. Don’t forget that it will continue to thicken as it cools, so add a little extra water if serving cold. Stir frequently towards the end of the cooking time as the mixture will be thickening up. Sweeten with a little caster sugar and serve warm or chilled with or without the topping.

To make the compote topping, put the plums, water and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring gently, until the plums are softened but still holding their shape. Add a little extra water if you need.

Spoon the rice pudding into tumblers or dessert dishes and top with the plum compote. Delicious warm or cold.

19

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DEMENTIA EXPLAINED

By Cognitive Neuroscientist and Business Improvement Strategist, Dr Lynda Shaw.

Dementia is an age-related syndrome that affects nearly 600,000 people in the UK and that number is rising. Dementia is becoming more and more important because we are living longer and Dementia is now the most common disease in the elderly.

The most common cause of Dementia is Alzheimer’s Disease and there is currently no cure but many believe we can help ourselves prevent or at least slow down a decline into Dementia, so that we can enjoy those precious later years.

During the course of the disease the chemistry and structure of the brain changes, leading to the death of brain cells.

Currently it’s difficult for doctors to make a clear diagnosis for Dementia. In the early stages the clinical symptoms can be quite ambiguous because cognitive impairment needs to be distinguished from brain changes during normal ageing.

Dementia usually first appears as forgetfulness.

WHAT IS DEMENTIA? Most types of Dementia are non-reversible (degenerative) but some causes of Dementia may be stopped or reversed if they are found soon enough, including after brain injury or chronic alcohol abuse Dementia is rare in people under age 60. The risk for Dementia increases as a person gets older.

Four main types of Dementia Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common cause of Dementia and accounts for 50% - 60% of all cases. It destroys brain cells and nerves disrupting the neuro transmitters which carry messages in the brain, particularly those responsible for storing memories. Alzheimer’s can affect memory, understanding, judgment, emotions and even personality and can be both frightening and exhausting for those with Alzheimer’s Disease as well as their loved ones.

Vascular Dementia Vascular Dementia is the second most common form of Dementia and accounts for about 20% of all cases. It affects men more than women and is due to cerebrovascular disease, which occurs where oxygen supply fails or is no longer efficient in the brain and brain cells are likely to die. This can lead to strokes or infarcts (mini strokes) and there is an increased possibility of vascular dementia.

Dementia with Lewy bodies Dementia with Lewy bodies is the third most common cause of Dementia and may occur in up to 20% of cases. Dementia with Lewy bodies is similar to Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s Disease in that it is caused by the degeneration and death of nerve cells in the brain. Lewy bodies are abnormal collections of protein deposits, found in the nerve cells of the brain.

Fronto-temporal dementia Fronto-temporal dementia is relatively rare and affects people at a younger age. It takes its name from the fact that damage to brain cells usually begins in the frontal lobe of the brain.

Symptoms

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Dementia affects people differently but symptoms may include difficulty with many areas of mental function, including in language, memory, perception, emotional behaviour such as anxiety or agitation and cognitive skills such as abstract thinking, or judgment and disorientation.

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CARE Mild cognitive impairment is somewhere between normal forgetfulness due to ageing and the development of Dementia. People with MCI have mild problems with thinking and memory that do not interfere with everyday activities and are often aware of the forgetfulness. Not everyone with MCI develops Dementia.

• Choice is confusing – so keep it simple and easy • Remember each person with dementia is still that person with unique and valuable experiences • Isolation because of Dementia is rife. Help those with Dementia still be sociable and connect with their loved ones and people of all ages.

Prevention

Helping Families of those with Dementia

Most causes of Dementia are not preventable but there are many things you can do to best protect yourself or slow down the rate of Dementia.

1. Caring for a person with AD can have physical, emotional and financial costs. The demands of day to day care, changing family roles, and difficult decisions about placement in a care facility can be hard to handle.

2. Becoming well informed is really important.

3. Developing good coping skills 4. Having a strong network of family and friends also are important 5. Staying physically active helps us cope emotionally to being a carer 6. Getting support groups for respite and expression of concerns

1. Mental Exercise 2. Quitting smoking and controlling high blood pressure and diabetes can help us reduce our risk of vascular Dementia.

3. Eating a low-fat balanced diet may reduce the risk of Vascular Dementia.

4. Regular physical exercise may reduce the risk of Vascular Dementia.

5. Sleep Well 6. Managing Stress 7. There is also treatment with vitamin B this has had notable effects. Folic Acid, B6 and B12 seem to do something to the reduction in the rate of brain atrophy.

8. Identify MCI as quickly as possible. In studies carried out in memory clinics, 10-15 per cent of people with MCI went on to develop Dementia in each year that the research results were followed up. It is therefore very important to identify people with MCI, as they may be in the very early stages of the disease and more likely to benefit from early treatment in the future. However, many people with MCI improve or remain stable, and do not develop Dementia.

In recent years, however, treatments that can improve the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease are becoming available. Other treatments that may slow down the progression of the disease in the brain are also being developed. It is important that people with Alzheimer’s disease are identified as early as possible, so that they can benefit from these treatments in the future.

Identifying people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is one way to try to achieve this but so far, none of the techniques available are sufficiently developed to provide a definitive diagnosis in patients with MCI. Helping those with Dementia • Understanding and respecting the person with

Dementia • Helping the person feel valued – be tolerant; listen properly and slow down; be affectionate; address them with the name they prefer e.g. Mr or Mrs … be courteous, kind and non-judgemental • Respecting cultural values and privacy • Regardless of how bad the Dementia is people still have feelings, so help the person feel good about themselves • Help them express their feelings.

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DR LYNDA SHAW RUNS AN ADVISORY SERVICE FOR LOVED ONES OF THOSE SUFFERING WITH DEMENTIA. www.drlyndashaw.com

Do you or someone you know require personal homecare?

Superior homecare services ltd is a domiciliary care agency based in Milton Keynes, owned and managed by a registered and qualified GP Nurse, with over 20 years experience.

We provide personal care in the comfort of our clients own homes.

All our staff are experienced and dedicated carers, who are CRB checked for your peace of mind, and safety. Our carers are fully trained or are working towards their NVQ level 2/3 qualifications.

We pride ourselves on delivering high quality assured care.

Our services are Personal care Washing/dressing/undressing, Assistance with moving and handling, preparing and feeding of meals, supporting healthy eating, incontinence management and support and medicine management.

Support Shopping, Cooking, Visits to and from Shops/Doctors and Outings, Respite care for carers, Domestic duties, Companionship, Assistance with Correspondence and Handyman services.

Superior Homecare services is registered with the CQC (Care Quality Commission) and are members of UKHCA (United Kingdom Home Care Association) ltd.

Superior HomeCare Services To contact us use the following Tel 01908 522245 Mobile 07867 308192 E-mail superiorhomecare89@gmail.com www.superiorhomecareservices.co.uk

23

AND

NEW

!

ELECTRIC HEATING SUSTAINABLE HOT WATER

A lifetime of heating and hot water, amazingly efficient, fully controllable, slim and attractive. Fantastic new service from Sunflow.

As well as replacing old heating systems with our amazing refractory clay heaters (see left) we are also upgrading hot water with the incredible ‘Sunflow Thermodynamic System’. Although we traditionally supply immersion tanks or electric water boilers, customers looking for substantial energy savings can have a hot water system that can be run for as little as 12 pence per day.

♦

UNIQUE FIREPLACE SURROUND available in a variety of colours and sizes, with natural polished stone hearths and mantles for a modern heater with a traditional look

♦

NO INSTALLATION COSTS Unlike traditional storage heaters, our low input heaters can be plugged into a standard 13 amp socket

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NO MAINTENANCE No boiler, pump or valves to service annually

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SLIMLINE DESIGN Our heaters are only 80mm deep

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BESPOKE FIT Each heater is built to suit an individual room’s heat requirement and can be sized to fit

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REPLACEMENT SERVICE A real alternative to gas or oil central heating. Our fully qualified staff take the worry out of changing over

Get your FREE brochure by calling our 24hr Brochure Line on: 0800 158 8270 Questions?

Call Suzanne on 0800 158 8272

Put S o HEAT me your into tank

After

substantial research we now offer THERMODYNAMIC HOT WATER.

This consists of a robust black aluminium panel (not fragile glass), a small, neat, quiet compressor and a hot water cylinder to suit your property and your needs. Of all the water heating renewable technologies, we know this is the best for our customers because it is a reliable system which will deliver substantial savings. It will work in rain, snow and on cloudy days. It even works at night!

We can offer our Sunflow Thermodynamic Hot Water System on its own or as part of a heating system.

Reg. No.528940