50 Plus magazine, Birmingham & Solihull by 50 Plus Magazine

BIRMINGHAM, WOLVERHAMPTON & SOLIHULL JULY - SEPTEMBER 2012

EDITION 32

Bernie

Nolan

BOUNCES BACK IN TRUE CHICAGO STYLE

Inside WELSH WONDERS AN AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY ADVICE TO CONSUMERS THE HAIRY BIKERS TAKE A SCIENTIFIC APPROACH TO FOOD

Rick Stein SHARES HIS FAVOURITE DISHES FROM AROUND THE WORLD

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ake on

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s

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Keeping you Smiling for all Occasions At All Saints Dental Clinic we believe that our patients comfort and well being comes first. Our philosophy is that all our patients receive a five star service every time making the visit to the dentist a pleasurable and stress free experience. We offer a comprehensive range of high quality treatment in a friendly, relaxed environment. We are proud to be a disability-friendly clinic providing access for wheelchair users. We are committed to continuing dental education and keeping abreast of the changes in modern dentistry. Our aim is to encourage preventative techniques by helping you to understand how to maintain the health of your mouth and keep it free of tooth decay and gum disease. We hope to transform your lives through simple changes instilling confidence and well being.

l l l l l l l l l

Tooth Whitening Smile Makeover Walk in Hygiene Clinic Cosmetic Changes Dental Implants Crowns, Bridges & Veneers Dentures (Ken Beard) Denture Repairs Screening for Oral Cancer

Smile Reviver ™ Radiance and Brightening Makeover ™ Smoker’s Lift ™

1. TOOTH WHITENING This can be done in the surgery in an hour, or at home, taking a few applications. Once you have done the initial whitening treatment, why not top-up using a home kit with whitening gel while you are getting ready to go out...for that extra glow!

2. NO-PREPARATION VENEERS Porcelain veneers, which are similar to false fingernails, can be added to the front of the tooth surface. This procedure, if suitable, can change the colour and shape of your teeth and can be completed within 2-3 weeks using our Californian ceramists. CASE STUDY: This patient had small upper teeth. She decided

Each case is different, however many of our patients are completing cosmetic orthodontics in 3-9 months. The estimated time frame will be discussed at your consultation. 5. DENTAL IMPLANTS A dental implant is an artificial titanium root that is placed to replace missing teeth, so unlike a denture, you can bite fully on an implant without it moving or slipping as the implant is supported by the bone, and unlike a bridge, the adjacent teeth are not cut down to support the replacement tooth, because when an implant is placed it is fixed in the bone itself.

to have four upper NoPreparation porcelain veneers and the

Prevora is a clear tooth coating which prevents tooth decay on the root surfaces of the teeth in adults at high risk of this disease. Prevora’s prevention is supplementary to regular oral hygiene, to controlling sugar intake and to regular visits to the dentist. Prevora is painted on your teeth by your dental professional in the dental practice in a series of short, painfree appointments. This clear coating contains a common antibacterial agent called chlorhexidine which has been trusted by medical and dental professionals for many years.

remaining teeth were whitened.

3. WRINKLE REDUCTION AND FILLER TREATMENTS Lips can be made fuller with dermal fillers. Using advanced techniques, the lip borders can be filled, reducing vertical wrinkling and ‘lipstick bleeding’, and the fullness of the central portion of the lips can be increased.

Chlorhexidine ensures that the bacteria causing tooth decay are at low levels for long periods. Thousands of adult patients at high risk of tooth decay have been treated with Prevora. It can be trusted, is very effective and has no cosmetic effects.

4. COSMETIC ORTHODONTICS Many people are concerned that they have crooked teeth, but think that braces are just for younger people and wonder what can be done to treat this cosmetic problem. Cosmetic orthodontic procedures move the teeth into a more aesthetic position using forces applied through cosmetic orthodontic appliances such as ceramic brackets for fixed braces, Invisalign, which is a clear, thin gum shield and lingual braces that are fitted behind the teeth.

6. EXCLUSIVE PREVENTATIVE TREATMENT - PREVORA

It is the only licensed treatment available to your dental professional which is indicated to prevent adult tooth decay.

Jospehine had a full mouth rehabilitation using implants, veneers & crowns.

Call us on 0121 444 0496 All Saints Dental Clinic

The All Saints Centre, 2d Vicarage Road, Kings Heath, Birmingham B14 7RA. e: reception@allsaintsdentalclinic.co.uk

www.allsaintsdentalclinic.co.uk

Now O p Becket en on ts Farm Site J3ARLENE PHILLIPS PRESENTED BY M42 AND ADAM SPIEGEL

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SUPERLIGHT WHEELCAIRS

STEFAN BOOTH BERNIE NOLAN

Inside this issue ...

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Welsh Wonders Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

12-13 Home to Hotel Pick up Service From Robinsons Holidays 16

Autumn Season Highlights At Solihull Arts Complex

Redditch Palace Theatre Now Booking for the Festive Season

FOOD & DRINK

This Damask Orthopaedic Bed and Cotton Covered Reflex Foam Mattress NOW ONLY OVER SIXTY MODELS IN STOCK NOW

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THE MOBILITY CENTRE

Becketts Farm, Alcester Road, Birmingham B47 6AJ. A435 to B'ham from Junction 3 M42

Tel: 01564 829541

24-25 The Hairy Bikers Talk to 50 Plus Magazine 28-29 Rick Steins' Recipe Pages Rick's favourite recipes

HOME 5

Relax in Comfort at DENNETTS

19-21 Is it time to DOWNSIZE? Tips on how to furnish something smaller. McGrath Regional Media. Unit 6 | Moses Gate Workshops | Gladys Street Bolton | BL3 2QG. T: (01204) 796 494 | F: (01204) 791594 e: mcgrathadmin@btconnect.com

ALSO AT Fairfield Court, Bromsgrove, B61 9NJ

Tel: 01527 837076

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Graham Smith has a Twitter Life is just a tweet! Do you tweet? Twitter seems to have become all the rage but don’t some people make themselves look twits by what they say?

Or “Bungle (Boris Johnson) on the phone. Not really sure what he’s saying, partly due to one having hung up”. She creases me!

Even David Cameron is tweeting, and for once it’s not about Nick Clegg. As I write he’s just popped up to announce that Prime Minister’s Question Time is about to start. A sure cue for everyone to switch off their computers and phones and hide in a darkened corner before this adult version of Children’s Playtime starts.

The “gin o’clock” bit comes in when our supposed monarch announces at 5pm each day that it’s home time and “gin o’clock”. And one of my favourites, “Just been out with the dogs. The DoE is trying to dry Linnet the corgi off with a hairdryer”.

Does the Queen tweet? Well not officially but someone assuming her name, @ Queen_UK, and claiming to be Elizabeth Windsor, gives me many a chuckle with irreverent comments and quips at various member of the Royal Family and the government. Her catchphrase is “gin o’clock” and he or she has an astonishing 646,553 followers and counting. The latest tweet,“ Camilla on the phone, worried that “the interweb has gone”. The DoE (Prince Philip) thinks she’s trying to find Ceefax”. Then there was this little gem, “Alvin and the Chipmunks (Mr Cameron and Co) are back from their Burma holiday. The poor Burmese still have no idea who they are”.

To me this is great humour and I am an avid follower. Others make me laugh for other reasons. They tweet before they’re out of bed and I even know the flavour of one southern lady’s toothpaste thanks to her being retweeted by one of my followers. Then there are the dodgy ones. I sat at my machine one morning and discovered I was being followed by three brothels in San Diego and a dispensing chemist for some very suspect stuff in India, duly deleted. Be very careful if you click any links to these kind of people or you will find your computer or mobile phone infected with something which spreads like mumps and ruins any social standing you ever had. Last word with the Queen after the budget, “Text from Nick Clegg: “I didn’t agree with the tax on fruit machines. People shouldn’t pay tax on their apples and bananas”.

Relax in Comfort at DENNETTS

Discover the difference at Dennetts! We have the largest selection of recliners, high seat chairs and orthopaedic chairs in Birmingham. All with matching settees.

Visit our showroom : 1182 Warwick Road, Acocks Green, Birmingham B27 6BT. Tel: 0121 706 1577 | www.dennettsfurniture.co.uk

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Make sure you live within the area outlined on the map to the left or have a postcode listed. Then simply let us know the home address you would like to be picked up from on the day of your holiday and pay the price you see in the brochure ... no extra charges!

visit us at www.interchoice.co.uk

-door lands Brand new for 20 12. No tra nsfers No int erchan ges No ha ssle! You will receive tickets with the time of your pick-up 6-10 days before you’re due to travel. On the morning of your holiday enjoy a cuppa and take it easy. One of our ﬂeet of mini-buses or one our partners at a reputable taxi ﬁrm will collect you at the time stated on your tickets.

call us on 0845 1303 321

WELSH WONDERS The Gower

In 1956 The Gower (a peninsula in south Wales jutting from the coast into the Bristol Channel) was named the very first ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ in the UK by the Countryside Agency and it’s not hard to see why. Its rugged coastline boasts some of the cleanest water in Europe and with the Gulf Stream keeping the water warm the Gower is a tempting place to take a dip. The

spectacular landscape also makes the Gower perfect for rambling walks, country cycling or even horse riding along the golden sands. Despite all this, the Gower has remained one of Wales’ best-kept secrets and is all the better for it.

GORGEOUS GOWER

Rhossili Visitors to the area should head straight for Rhossili, which has been described on numerous occasions as one of the best beaches in the UK, and even the world! Rhossili is located at the most Western part of the Gower Peninsula. The most photographed part of Gower, The Worms Head, stretches out to sea and becomes an island when the tide comes in. History buffs can investigate the wreck of the Helvetica, which ran aground in 1887. For the best panoramic views, walkers should head for the top of the Downs where they will be able to see for miles in each direction.The breathtaking view is completed by the long sandy beach and the towering cliffs and this makes it a popular destination throughout the year with surfers, paragliders and ramblers. However, Rhossili still manages to maintain its tranquillity and unspoilt beauty.

Back To Nature For those wanting to get back to nature, there are a number of companies that can get you on the right track. Dryad Bushcraft offers a range of courses in the art of bushcraft (learning to live in a wilderness environment). Courses include Wilderness Gourmet,

Prehistoric Gower, Introduction to Bushcraft and Family Bushcraft. www.dryadbushcraft.co.uk

Village Life Amongst the Gower’s many other charms are its tiny fishing villages, from Llangennith to Horton. Perhaps the most well-known is The Mumbles, a delightful Victorian village with lovely views over Swansea Bay, boasting little boutique shops and a plethora of pubs and restaurants. Up on a hill overlooking the town is Oystermouth Castle, a picturesque and atmospheric 12th century castle that used to be the chief residence of the Lords of Gower and merges perfectly with the dramatic landscape. In fact, the area is so picturesque that Catherine Zeta Jones chose to build a house there not so long ago.

Bright Lights Nearby Swansea offers a vibrant nightlife, with the Wind Street area turning from a modern café quarter during the day to a party zone at night. The city is also home to Wales’s must see largest indoor market which is a huge and buzzing expanse selling cockles, lava bread and fresh Welsh cakes. Swansea city is also the birthplace of poet Dylan Thomas, (for information about his house then visit www.5cwmdonkindrive.com). www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

T R AV E L

Eating and Drinking The Gower is spoilt for choice for quality when it comes to eating out locally but the Gower itself is limited to the number of establishments that it could viably sustain; however, Swansea certainly offers everything that you could hope for and all within driving distance.

Sleeping The rugged nature of the landscape is offset by The Gower’s many attractive places to stay ranging from one or two rooms in a family home to self-contained en-suite rooms with dining and sitting room facilities reserved especially for guests. The Gower may only be 70 square miles but it seems vast. With its huge deserted beaches, isolated landscapes and tiny, pretty villages, the peninsula will envelop you – and you won’t want it to let go.

Snowdonia Lakes, castles and waterfalls create a surreal experience which could be right out of Lord of the Rings as you enter Snowdonia National Park. Located in north-western Wales, the national park was established in 1951, which made it the first national park in Wales - it covers 840 square miles! www. snowdonia.org.uk Local signs are often both English and Welsh and many aspects of traditional Welsh life, including food, clothing, and crafts are still to be found. The region is very popular for hiking, mountaineering, kayaking, amongst other outdoor pursuits. It also features the magnificent Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales at 1,085 m (3,560 ft).

narrow gauge railway designed for use with steam locomotives. It was built to serve the slate industry but also carried passengers almost from the outset. The quarry closed in 1946, but the railway’s owner pledged to keep the line open for as long as he lived. He died in 1950, but the line was saved from closure by a group of enthusiasts who formed a preservation society (the world’s first) dedicated to safeguarding its future.

Riding The Footplate Whilst on the Talyllyn Railway and if you are very lucky, you can ride part of the way on the locomotive footplate - a sensational experience! Not wanting to disappoint, the Railway also offers members of the public the opportunity to drive one of its historic steam locomotives. For information see either: www.talyllyn.co.uk or www.greatlittletrainsofwales.co.uk

Picture Perfect The picturesque town of Barmouth rests just within the south west corner of Snowdonia National Park. Barmouth’s location lying between a mountain range and the sea on the mouth of the river Mawddach is arguably one of the most beautiful locations in Wales. The old town is well worth a visit with its steep steps and slate-roofed cottages set on the side of a mountain. The harbour is beautiful and you can walk across the spectacular Barmouth Bridge spanning the river which can be an ideal spot for an evening stroll. The beach is large and perfect for sunbathing; surfers can often be seen here depending on the swells and time of year. It also has a large range of shops, pubs, hotels and other accommodations including caravan parks. A funfair and amusement arcades are open from March to October.

Talyllyn Railway The Talyllyn Railway is one of The Great Little Trains of Wales, a group of Welsh narrow gauge railways which offers bargain travel through its Discount Card scheme. The Talyllyn operates over 7 miles of 2ft 3in gauge track along the Fathew Valley from Tywyn Wharf near the coast of Cardigan Bay, to Nant Gwernol, three miles from the lake which gives the railway its name. Much of the route is within the Snowdonia National Park, and leaflets are available detailing scenic walks from many of the stations. The line opened in 1865 and still uses two of the original locomotives and coaching stock, in fact three of the locomotives are over a century old! The Victorian train runs on Saturdays and offers the unique experience of travelling in the original coaches behind a Victorian locomotive. The line was the first www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

BEAUTIFUL BARMOUTH9

Eating and Drinking

Sleeping

The foodie scene in this area has come a long way in the last 20 years or so. The Snowdonia mountains and coast are bursting with quality local produce, from Welsh lamb and black beef to farmhouse cheeses and Dyfi salmon, not to mention the sensational seafood from the rich waters of Cardigan Bay. This freshly sourced and home-grown produce has helped transform bistros and fine dining restaurants, cafés and country inns throughout the region.

Snowdonia has a wide-range of hotels, B&B’s traditional or fashionable boutique, country houses or even campsites to satisfy even the most discriminating visitor, whether you choose to stay in Llanberis, Betwsy-Coed, Beddgelert, Abersoch, Harlech, or any of the other pretty towns and villages.

DON’T LEAVE WALES WITHOUT ...

hangs all ten toes over the nose of the board – easier said than done! For people fortunate enough to have their own equipment popular surfing spots include: Sumpters near Overton, Boilers Reef near Port Eynon or Pete’s Reef not far from Pilton, but for those who don’t or would like a ‘taster’ session, there are a number of companies who can hire boards and wetsuits, or provide you with more information

Hanging Ten On The Gower! The Gower lends itself to a large range of water sports, such as surfing, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing and water skiing. Most of the beaches do NOT have a lifeguard, so don’t forget to stay safe and check the tides. Surfing is very popular in this area so whether you’re a novice or more advanced, try ‘hanging ten’ on the Gower - Hanging Ten is a difficult surfing maneuver when the surfer walks to the front of the board and

Try these websites:

www.samssurfshack.com or gowersurfing.com

GETTING AROUND...

By Rail As previously mentioned, there are a large number of local steam railways, rescued by railway enthusiasts during the Beeching era, known collectively as The Great Little Trains of Wales. Passport tickets are available, giving access to all the railways for the whole season (email addresses supplied above).

By Road Many of the smaller roads are slow, and in upland areas may become impassable during bad weather. The latest traffic information is available from Traffic Wales www.traffic-wales.com

Climate Wales has a temperate climate, which means, like the rest of the UK, it never really gets very hot and never gets really cold. The best times to visit is during the summer months. May, June, July and August are generally the sunniest and driest months. During the winter it can rain frequently, but temperatures rarely drop below zero. They’re normally between five and seven degrees. A raincoat and a thick jumper will usually cope with the worst that the Welsh weather has to offer!

WHY NOT TRY SOME SURFING?

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Est.1923

Coach Holidays

Includes

ROBINSONS OWN HOTELS

FREE

INSURANCE

All tours include travel by Luxury Coach Half Board accommodation Home to Hotel Pick Up Service Free Insurance

ROBINSONS Imperial Hotel - Eastbourne

n impressive Victorian hotel, situated at the seaward end of Devonshire Place, less than a hundred yards from the seafront, on a delightful tree-lined boulevard less than ďŹ ve minutes walk from the main facilities and town centre amenities. A night porter ensures 24hr reception service.

ROBINSONS AA Abbey Lawn - Torquay

f you are looking to unwind in style, this elegant Georgian hotel is the place to stay. Located in the grounds of the former Torre Abbey overlooking Torbay, there are superb facilities. These include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, gym, steam room, sauna and a spacious conservatory. As with all our own hotels a night porter ensures 24 hour reception service.

ROBINSONS Ocean View Shanklin

n elegant hotel commanding magniďŹ cent views across Sandown Bay, the balconies provide the perfect place to enjoy the sunset on summer evenings. Guests can unwind in the piano lounge before enjoying an evening meal in the spacious restaurant. A night porter ensures 24 hour reception service.

CALL FREEPHONE: 0800 0839086 Book online www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP.

All holidays on this page are inclusive of a pick up from your home. You will be taken to an appropriate point to join your main tour coach. Tour coaches will depart late morning and you will be advised of the pick up time one week prior to the date of travel. On the homeward journey, you will arrive back in the West Midlands early afternoon with transport provided to your home.

8 Days/ 7 Nights Dinner Bed & Breakfast, includes 2 Excursions and FREE Insurance

5 Days/ 4 Nights Dinner Bed & Breakfast, includes 2 Excursions and FREE Insurance

Abbey Lawn Imperial Ocean View Mystery Tour Sat/Sun departures

Abbey Lawn Imperial

Ocean View

Mystery Tour

£239

Monday departures

02/03 Jun

£419

£379

04-Jun

£259

09/10 Jun

£429

£389

11-Jun

£269

£245

£279

£255

16/17 Jun

£429

£389

18-Jun

23/24 Jun

£429

£389

25-Jun

£279

£255

30 Jun/01 Jul

£429

£389

02-Jul

£279

£255

£279

£255

07/08 Jul

£429

£389

09-Jul

14/15 Jul

£429

£389

16-Jul

£279

£255

£279

£255

21/22 Jul

£429

£389

23-Jul

28/29 Jul

£429

£389

30-Jul

£279

£255

04/05 Aug

£429

£389

06-Aug

£279

£255

£279

£255

11/12 Aug

£429

£389

13-Aug

18/19 Aug

£429

£389

20-Aug

£279

£255

£279

£255 £255

25/26 Aug

£429

£389

27-Aug

01/02 Sept

£429

£389

03-Sept

£279

08/09 Sept

£419

£379

10-Sept

£275

£249

£269

£245

15/16 Sept

£409

£369

17-Sept

22/23 Sept

£389

£349

24-Sept

£265

£239

£329

01-Oct

£255

£229

08-Oct

£245

£219

15-Oct

£239

£215

22-Oct

£235

£209

29-Oct

£229

£205

£369

29/30 Sept

£369

7 Days/ 6 Nights Dinner Bed & Breakfast, includes 2 Excursions and FREE Insurance

Festive Breaks Abbey Lawn

Imperial

Ocean View Mystery Tour

Monday departures 08-Oct

£309

£309*

£309

£279

15-Oct

£299

£299*

£299

£275

22-Oct

£289

£289*

£289

£265

29-Oct

£279

£279*

£279

£255

Festive Breaks 05-Nov

£279

£279*

£279

£255

12-Nov

£275

£275*

£275

£249

19-Nov

£269

£269*

£269

£245

26-Nov

£265

£265*

£265

£239

03-Dec

£259

£259*

£259

£235

10-Dec

£255

£255*

£255

£229

* Day Trip to France included, passport required.

05-Nov

£229

£209

12-Nov

£225

£205

19-Nov

£219

£199

26-Nov

£215

£195

03-Dec

£209

£195

10-Dec

£205

£195

17-Dec

£199

£195

23-Dec

£425*

£385*

£405*

£365*

29-Dec

10th & 17th December Unlimited Single Rooms at Robinsons Own Hotels * Includes 3 resort lunches

Abbey Lawn and Ocean View Hotels Front facing/seaview supplements 7 Days £13 per person. 8 Days £15 per person. 5 Days £10 per person

CALL FREEPHONE: 0800 0839086 Book online www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP.

1501

I N T E RV I E W

Bernie bounces back in true Chicago style

ernie Nolan has taken on the pivotal role of Mama Morton in multi awardwinning musical ‘Chicago’ this year. In 2009, the singer and actress played the fairy godmother at Manchester Opera House, following on The Nolans’ reunion tour which proved a spectacular success and filled arenas around the UK. But between then and now, Bernie, aged 51, has fought a dramatic battle against breast cancer which saw her having to have a mastectomy and six months of chemotherapy. In true showbiz style, Bernie has bounced back from this traumatic time to entertain us once more. All of which is no surprise when you consider her strong family background, and the way she has lived much of her life in the spotlight. Bernadette Therese Nolan came from an Irish family, the second youngest of eight children, and was brought up in Blackpool. Showbiz was in her blood and her sisters, brothers and parents would often perform in clubs and pubs around the resort. It was when Bernie teamed up with four of her sisters, however, as The Nolans that fame and success finally came their way. The pretty, harmonious pop group sold millions of records worldwide in the ‘80s and ‘90s including more than nine million albums. They had chart hits like ‘I’m in the Mood for Dancing’ and were regular guests on some of the top TV shows of the time. Their appeal – apart from singable, danceable hits – was their wholesome niceness and visual charm, which proved a pleasant antidote to the extreme vagaries of the pop scene.

Bernie had one of the strongest voices in the group, but when she first tried her hand at acting she showed that she also had talent in this direction. She became a presenter on BBC Saturday morning children’s show ‘On The Waterfront’ , and pleasantly surprised critics by her gift for comedy and the ability to laugh at herself. In 1993, she appeared in the stage play ‘The Devil Rides Out’, and left The Nolans in 1994 to pursue a solo career, scoring solo hits and an album ‘All By Myself.’ She also had noteable success in the Willy Russell musical ‘Blood Brothers’ which brought her to the attention of TV bosses, and in 2000 she joined the cast of popular Liverpool soap ‘Brookside’ as Diane Murray. Bernie played this role successfully for two years before leaving to play Sheelagh Murphy in ITV’s iconic police drama series ‘The Bill’ where she was given several strong storylines. Her character proved popular and, although she left in 2005, the door was left open for her character’s return. In 2006, she took part in the Channel 4 series ‘The Games, raising funds for Alzheimer’s and children’s charities, and the following year starred in the play ‘Mum’s The Word’. During the summer, she appeared at Blackpool’s North Pier Theatre in ‘Soap Queens’ , enhancing her reputation as a reliable stage star when she went on to play Hannah Owens in ‘Flashdance The Musical.’ The Nolan family had already been affected by cancer previously: sister Anne had breast cancer in 2000 and Linda suffered from the disease in 2006. However, little could really have prepared Bernie for her own breast cancer diagnosis in April, 2010. As she recalls: “The day I found out, I cried my eyes out for about two or three minutes with my husband, Steve. After that, I didn’t cry again the whole way through my treatment.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

“ At the very beginning, though, it’s important to let out every feeling you’ve got. Cry, scream, shout, do whatever you want because it’s one of the biggest things that will ever happen to you.”

As a strong woman, however, Bernie very quickly adopted a positive attitude. “I thought ‘ there’s no way I’m going to die from this’. Once you make that decision, you can get on with beating it. From the start, it’s a case of taking things PRESENTED PRESENTEDBY BYARLENE ARLENEPHILLIPS PHILLIPS DBERG one & day LDBERG & at a time. AND ANDADAM ADAMSPIEGEL SPIEGEL

AINMENT TAINMENT

NG G

Don’t worry about what’s coming up in two weeks’ time. Deal with today, you’ve got enough on your plate.” Inevitably, though, there were terrible times. One of the worst for ©©Bernie was telling her children. “I was diagnosed a week before my daughter Erin’s 11th birthday and we didn’t want to tell her until that was over. But kids aren’t daft – she knew something wasn’t quite right,” she recalls.

ALI BASTIAN TUPELE DORGU

STEFAN STEFAN BOOTH BOOTH BERNIE BERNIE NOLAN NOLAN

‘So we just sat her down and told her the truth. She knew about cancer because of Anne’s and Linda’s experience and she knew they were OK, which helped. Erin asked if I was going to die. I told her no and then she asked me if the lump was big. Again, I said no, and explained they’d found it early. One little tear ran down her cheek and she accepted it.’ Bernie had great support from her large family, and especially from her husband Steve in spite of the understandable initial shock and fears for the future. Much of the optimism surrounding Bernie, however, emanated from herself. When her hair fell out from the treatment, she didn’t hide but spoke out publicly about the problem and campaigned for early diagnosis and better understanding of the disease.

BLACK LACK STARKE STARKE

She believes in check-ups and self-awareness in the battle against cancer, and has a practical approach to the disease itself. “You’ve got to take every bit of support you’re offered, whether that’s from the doctors, your family or friends,” she insists. “And, take it from me, none of it is as scary as it STARRING STARRING sounds. I wouldn’t lie.”

VINCENT SIMONE VINCENT SIMONE Given that strength and determination, it’s logical that FLAVIA CACACE she has now returned to the stage and performing, and & &FLAVIA CACACE is reportedly “excited” about her role in one of the most

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IS IT TIME TO DOWNSIZE?

THE children have all left home for lives of their own or you suddenly realise one day that the house you’re in is simply too big for your needs. Whatever the reason, it’s time to DOWNSIZE! Once, downsizing carried a bit of a stigma, almost as if you couldn’t afford the home you had so you had to go for something less. But, in today’s cost-conscious, energy-efficient and finance-orientated world, many more people are downsizing for all the right reasons. Along with finding a smaller property to live in, however, comes some unusual dilemmas – along with the usual dilemmas of how to furnish the new home and what is surplus to requirements. Interior designer Chrissy Halton from Innerspace offers some simple advice: “When downsizing, don’t try and replicate the house you had – go for a new look.

Interior Designer Chrissy Halton Ask your relatives and friends if they would like to have particular items that you don’t want to take with you. There’s a growing trend for mixing old and new furniture currently so they may be glad to be offered a piece they’ve coveted or that may fit in their home. Or look to sell items on ebay and start afresh in your new home with some new furniture. The National Association of Estate Agents says that downsizing offers a chance to have “a thorough springclean and focus on exactly what you want in your new home, and what you don’t.” “You may have furniture which isn’t suitable for your new home, or that could do with replacing. So think ahead and make sure you have taken proper measurements of your new property so you don’t struggle on moving day with items that you probably shouldn’t have brought with you.”

“And only take with you items that really mean something to you. Off-white walls look great with more antique furniture items, for example. Less is more!”

For many of us, the pull of our old home is all about the memories that we’ve shared as a family within those bricks and mortar. Our children may have grown up here, and every room can be associated with personal milestones or events that matter to our own family history.

The advantages of moving to a smaller property can be that your bills are likely to be smaller and there will be less housework needed. The first big minus, though, is that you’ve probably got far too many possessions to fit into your new home.

“If you’re worried about losing all the history behind your old home, think about using photos to show your life,” adds Chrissy. “It’s easy to make them into beautiful collages, and that way you can ‘take’ the items with you without having the real thing.”

“You can’t take everything with you,” says Chrissy, “so start by having a really good de-clutter so that you can really see what you have that you love. That way you can more easily make the decision about what to take – and you don’t have to pay the removal company too much!”

When it actually comes to chucking out much-loved – and possibly worn – furniture or other items, contact a local charity which might be glad of household goods and especially furniture in good condition. The national homeless charity Emmaus, for example, may have a local collection service for unwanted furniture, or

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LOVELY LOUNGE – Relaxing toning, muted shades, a lack of clutter and plenty of light can be the hallmark of your new lounge when you downsize.

BEDROOM BEAUTY – Go for pretty fabrics in blinds and warm shades that can be picked up in bedding to create this attractive smaller bedroom.

another charitable organisation may be willing to pick up your item to sell for funds or to give it a good home with someone else who really needs it. It’s important to plan ahead with your new space. “Think about how you’re going to use the space you are moving to,” says Chrissy. “What is the purpose of each room? How many people will you need to fit in to sit? Will you really need a dining room specifically?” “Situations change and what you once needed you may no longer require. If you actually look at how much time you spend in each room of your current home now, you may be very surprised at how little space you actually use on a regular basis. Take this – and what items you use – as a gauge for what you need to take with you.”

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For example, she points out, if your new bathroom is smaller than you’ve been used to, is it worth removing the bath and having a larger shower? This may not only make more sense for your daily living but can help with any current or future mobility issues.

BATHROOM BRIGHT – Ensure your new bathroom has plenty of light with the help of a clever skylight window

Whatever style of décor you choose for your new home, it’s worth trying to avoid clutter and opt for today’s cleaner lines and minimalist approach – if only to cut down on housework! Take a look at current interior styles and how these can be easily achieved. Open up a dark room or small bathroom with a roof window or skylight, for example. Take advantage of the wealth of modern flooring including natural woods that can make a room warm and homely in Winter and cool and calming in Summer. You might like to team this type of flooring with a handsome rug in a shade or pattern that tones with your room’s chosen colour scheme.

...

Plain walls matched with attractive fabrics in curtains or blinds give a room a modern look and allow smart furniture and impressive pictures or photographs to really come into their own. If the downsizing also applies to your pocket, then you don’t have to spend a fortune on your new place. In fact, there’s often an enjoyable challenge in keeping within a tight budget yet coming up with something fresh, new and comfortable even if the items are cut-price or second-hand. Again, ebay can be a boon here.

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The key to successfully moving at this crucial stage is to take a fresh look at your lifestyle, and decide to make a new start. That way you can downsize the costs – but upsize your enjoyment of your new home! For more information on Innerspace Interior Design go to www.innerspaceinteriordesign.co.uk

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The Trading Standards Service is committed to achieving a fair and safe trading environment to benefit local residents, businesses and visitors to the area. Advice to Consumers - Frequently asked Questions ..... Information and advice to consumers. When you buy goods from any business you have certain civil rights. Advice and support for consumers in Solihull is provided by Citizens Advice. The Citizens Advice consumer service provides free, confidential and impartial advice on consumer issues. Citizens Advice works in partnership with Local Authority Trading Standards Advice Services offering first level advice and information on a wide range of consumer issues. More complex problems, or complaints requiring further investigation or assistance are referred to Trading Standards or other advice services. To speak to Citizens Advice, please call 08454 04 05 06. Opening hours are 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday - Friday (Textphone users should dial 18001 followed by Citizens Advice consumer helpline number 08454 04 05 06) A wide range of consumer information and advice is also available online from the Citizens Advice website at www. adviceguide.org.uk What rights do I have if I buy faulty goods? The goods must be: • must be of ‘satisfactory quality’. The goods must be free from defects except when they have been brought to your attention • must be ‘fit for their purpose’. The product must be able to do what it was sold to do. The product must also be able to do anything the seller says it will do. • must be ‘as described’ on the package or display sign. If you buy a food product with a label stating that it is 100% fat free, then that is what you should get. If the goods do not meet these standards you are entitled to reject them and get your money back, as long as the goods are returned within a “reasonable” period (normally a few weeks). You do not have to accept a repair, a credit note or replacement (although you may want to consider this if you’ve had the goods for some time). You also have the right to require the seller to repair or replace the goods within a reasonable time and without causing you significant inconvenience. If this would be impossible or disproportionate (eg. the cost of a repair would be more than you paid for the item), or the retailer 22

does not repair or replace without inconvenience within a reasonable period you can require them to reduce the price of the goods by an appropriate amount or rescind the contract. Some retailers may argue that any fault is a result of you damaging the goods in which case you would need to prove that this is not the case, perhaps by obtaining an independent expert opinion. Ultimately you might have to prove your case in Court. If you had to pay for an expert opinion you can claim the cost of this as well as the refund. What about services rather than goods? When you purchase a service such as having a car repaired or employing a builder to carry out some work, you are legally entitled to certain minimum standards of service. The service should be carried out: • with reasonable care and skill • within a reasonable time • for a reasonable price - providing the cost was not agreed beforehand If these requirements are not met, you may be able to sue the trader for compensation. Alternatively, the person or organisation may be a member of a trade association or other professional body to whom you can complain; be regulated; or have a Code of Practice which they may have to abide by. The shop wants to carry out a repair What if they are still faulty? You have the same rights as before you agreed to the repair prior to having the repair carried out, let the shop know you are reserving the right to reject the goods if the repair is not carried out satisfactorily. You should give the vendor a reasonable opportunity to repair goods especially if the fault is minor and the goods can be put into new condition. Do I need a receipt to get a refund? Basically, the answer is no but you will need another proof of purchase. This could be a bank statement indicating the purchase, credit card counterfoil or even a witness who saw you make the purchase. A receipt however is obviously the best proof of purchase you can get

so look after it until you are sure that the goods are okay. The goods I wanted were marked at a low price but the shop refused to sell them to me. Can they do this? Yes. A shop is not required to sell you anything, or at any price on display. They are making what’s called an ‘invitation to treat’, which can be withdrawn at any time. However, price indications should not be misleading as it could be an offence under the Consumer Protection Act 1987. If you think you are being misled, you should report it to Trading Standards. What if the shop refuses to refund my money? If the shop ultimately refuses to refund your money and you feel you have a good case you must take action yourself. If the value you are claiming is less than £5,000, you can use the small claims procedure. This procedure is designed to be as simple and inexpensive as possible. If the claim is over this amount, you can still take action to recover the total claim through the County Courts. It would be advisable to seek advice first, from Trading Standards.

Are you looking for Are you looking a reliable for atrader? reliable

Use the trader? The Shipshape register now Shipshape register has over 100 members.

Shipshape is a Trading Standards Scheme is the register of Solihull Hometo for Home Shipshape Improvement Professionals Improvement Professionals. It is operated by demonstrate their commitment to fair, Solihull Council Trading Standards. The aim of the professional and honest trade. register is to give consumers a list of traders they can rely on. It also gives reliable and legitimate

Solihull Council’s Standards Service businesses Trading the opportunity to show they are committed to providing a good operates the register. The aim of the register service their customers. is to give consumers a list of to traders they can rely on. It also gives legitimate businesses the So if you need a plumber, a roofer, a builder opportunity to or show they are committed to an electrician give Solihull Council providing a good service to their customers. Trading Standards a call and ask for the “Shipshape” list on:

To join the scheme, businesses must agree to meet minimum standards, these are assessed by Trading Standards. Please note that Don’t use rogue traders; inclusion on the register does not mean the use “Shipshape” from business is ‘approved’ by the Council, neither Trading is the Council responsible forSolihull work carried out Standards. by scheme members.

08454 04 05 06

BIRMINGHAM ISSUE 29.indd 50

24/1/11 13:48:05

Millions being lost to sophisticated new card fraud phone scam · New ‘card fraud phone scam’ records a three-fold increase in financial losses so far in 2012 · “Would you spot it?” – a worrying 80% of consumers feel anyone could fall victim · Simple advice to help combat this crime is available from payyourway.org.uk A sophisticated type of fraud – where people are telephoned by fraudsters and duped into revealing their PIN and handing over their bank card to a courier – is on the rise.

amount - £750,000 - stolen in the first four months of 2012 that was stolen during the whole of 2011. This equates to a threefold increase. The scam involves a person being called by someone claiming to be from their bank and told that their debit or credit card needs collecting as it needs replacing following fraud on their account. The caller often suggests the person hangs up and calls the bank back if they want to ensure the call is genuine, but stays on the line, tricking the person into thinking they’re calling their bank. The criminal will then ask the person to key in their PIN number, before sending a courier to collect the card. The victim is told the card is going to the bank to be changed but is actually delivered to the fraudster to use along with the PIN obtained during the scam. With 91 per cent feeling that older adults would be particularly at risk, the campaign is encouraging people to make sure that older relatives and friends are also aware of the scam in order to stamp out this kind of crime and help older generations to keep their finances secure.

Pay Your Way, the Payments Council’s education campaign, is working with The UK Cards Association and Financial Fraud Action UK, to raise awareness of how to avoid becoming a victim of this type of crime. More than £1.5 million has now been lost to this crime, with the same

In response to the newly-released figures, tips to help people arm themselves against fraud can now be found at www. payyourway.org.uk, where a whole range of guidance on safer payments and banking is available.

Any Doubt? Keep them out! How to Beat the Rogue Step Caller • • • • • • •

DCI Paul Barnard, head of the bank sponsored Dedicated Cheque and Plastic Crime Unit (DCPCU), the specialist police unit that tackles UK card and cheque fraud, said: “Many of us feel confident that we can spot fraudsters but this type of crime can be sophisticated and could happen to anyone. If you have friends or relatives who you feel may be vulnerable, please help them to be more aware of the potential risks and what to look out for. If you think you have become a victim of fraud on your account you should contact your bank in the first instance, although if there is a crime in progress you should call 999 straightaway.”

Are you for a r trad

Follow these simple tips to avoid becoming a victim:

1. Never hand over your card: Your bank or the police will NEVER ring you and tell you that they are coming to your home to pick up your card, so never hand it over to anyone who comes to collect it.

The Ship has ov

2. Never share your PIN: Your bank will NEVER ask you to authorise anything by entering your PIN into the telephone. NEVER share your PIN with anyone – the only times you should use your PIN are at a cash machine or when you use a shop’s chip and PIN machine.

Shipsha Improvem 3. Always speak to the bank securely: Before calling your bank, make sure you can hear the dial toneSolihull and only everCouncil call your bank on an advertised number. register is to gi can rely on. businesse

Keep front and back doors locked Use a door viewer or window to see who your caller is Put your chain or bar on before you open the door Never agree to have work done by a stranger who turns up on your doorstep Don’t trust ID offered by the caller, it can easily be faked. Never let uninvited callers into your home Never agree to be taken to the bank to withdraw cash

Rogue doorstep callers appear trustworthy and genuine; if you let them in they’ll expect a sale and won’t give up easily.

So if you or Tradin

If you require any further information or advice about doorstep callers contact trading standards.

For further information telephone 08454 04 05 06 or write to Trading Standards, Solihull Council, Public Protection, Council House, Manor Square, Solihull B91 3QB The Citizens Advice consumer service provides free, confidential and impartial advice on consumer issues - visit www.adviceguide.org.uk or call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 08454 04 05 06. The service can be contacted between 9.00am - 5.00pm Monday to Friday [the service is closed on bank holidays and public holidays].

THE

HAIRY BIKERS

take a scientiﬁc approach to food

Dave Myers and Simon King alias The Hairy Bikers were in the middle of a regime of diet and exercise when we chatted, recalls Angela Kelly Yes, sorry, I know you’ll probably have to read that sentence again. Those two well-covered foodies? Diet? Exercise? Fear not. It’s all in the cause of a new cookery book about dieting and Dave and Simon had thrown themselves into both food and exercise regimes with the kind of enthusiasm they normally reserve for a piece of garlic-dripping Italian foccaccia bread or a couple of their favourite beers. “Yes, I know,” explains Simon, the blonde Geordie member of the famous chef duo. “It doesn’t sound like us, but obesity is a real problem in this country at the moment, hen, and we’re just trying to help.” As a result, Simon, aged 45, had been hitting the gym regularly – “and it’s working. I’m not sure how much weight I’ve lost because I’ve got some dodgy scales that say 20 stone 5lb one minute and 14 stone 8lb the next, but I know I can get into some jeans I couldn’t before. Mind you, I’m still a fat lad!” he roars familiarly. Dave, at 55, sounds like he’s taken a more scientific 24

approach to the subject. He’s lost a stone and a half, has taken up boxing but still manages to sound incredulous when he says :”Do y’know, I’m actually enjoying the sessions.” You might be forgiven for not putting “weight-loss” and “The Hairy Bikers” in the same sentence because the likeable lads have spent the past eight years showing us what fun food can be – both making it and eating it. They’ve travelled around the UK and across the globe gathering culinary experiences and footage for their TV series, astride some seriously large motorbikes. Their trademark has been making new friends via food, cooking in people’s homes and generally acting as brilliant ambassadors for the best dishes that people can make for themselves. “The new cookery book will still be about food, though,” states Dave, the darker, bespectacled one. “It’s just that we’ll be showing good food that you can easily make with fewer calories in it so it won’t put too much weight on.” The two are speaking ahead of their new country-wide tour that starts in September and takes in 41 venues over the next three months, from Barrow in Furness to Bolton and Lowestoft to Liverpool. It’s their first live tour since their last sell-out tour two years ago, and it sounds like their usual eclectic mix of fun, socialising and, er, some cooking. “It’s definitely not going to be two blokes on a sofa

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INTERVIEW talking about food,” laughs Dave. “There’s loads going on. We’re having strip tombola and an escapologist – oh, and we’ll be doing the tango. We’ll also have a couple of people from the audience having a meal with wine and beer on the stage with us. We love that, and so do they!” In fact, Dave and Simon love most things about their lives currently, although it wasn’t always as easy or straightforward. Both grew up with ailing parents: Dave’s mum had Multiple Sclerosis and Simon’s Dad was on kidney dialysis. For Dave, who was born when his father was 55, his earliest memory of cooking is when he was around eight helping his mum bake bread, simple fruit scones and a Victoria sponge. As an older dad, his father was able to spend plenty of time with Dave, although from around the age of 13 it was Dave who did the bulk of the cooking at home. He later went to art school “but I was a better cook than an artist,” he recalls. It was when he became a make-up artist specialising in prosthetics and was working on the set of a Catherine Cookson TV drama that he met Simon, then a first assistant director and locations’ manager. The two shared a love of bikes and food, began cooking together – and a legend was born. Simon’s first foodie memory is of making sandwiches, strangely enough “with the crusts taken off and cut into little triangles”, when he was about six and helping in the kitchen. “But most of the time I was just off out scrambling about, no time to cook!” he says, with that gentle rumbling roar of laughter bubbling up. Their first programmes for the BBC eight years ago were more travelogue than cookery show, but the emphasis gradually changed to the enjoyable format that has attracted so many viewers today.

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They’ve also sold millions of cookery books linked to the series, and now earned themselves a BAFTA nomination for their Meals on Wheels programmes. These highlighted the vital visiting service to the elderly, and they also tried – successfully - to put the emphasis back on regular freshly-cooked meals for them. They’re both delighted about the nomination and, Simon insists, they hope the subject will continue to catch the public imagination because it’s an important one. “In the series, it wasn’t Dave and I who were the stars of the show but all these marvellous older people,” he insists. “They’ve got the most wonderful cookery knowledge themselves. It’s so important for older people to keep on cooking good food like they always did, and share their skills with their grandchildren to keep these going and become a real legacy.” The two Northerners and their easygoing style has already been credited with tickling taste-buds at home and abroad, whether that’s sampling breads in Poland or guzzling nougat in the French town of Montelimar. But it’s plain they are genuinely passionate about all that’s best in food and sharing the enthusiasm to create it. Although the new cookery book has a dietary theme, food enjoyment as always comes first. “We’ll be doing dishes like a really tasty cassoulet and a great Masala Spatchcock Chicken,” states Dave.

As for the problematic weight-loss, they’re both conﬁdent they can lead this new campaign trimly from the front. “Well,” adds Simon, “If God is good and he keeps me off the brown ale!”

For details of tour dates and venues go to www.hairybikers.com 25

There’s money up on the roof! Solar energy has become big business and looks like going through the roof for many more years to come. Solar Panels transform daylight into electricity, which homeowners can then turn in to earnings and energy savings thanks to Feed-In Tariffs (FITs). The sun’s energy is absorbed by solar cells in photovoltaic (PV) panels before being converted into electricity. This can then be used in the home or fed back into the national grid. Daylight causes an electric field across layers of silicon in the cells, creating an electric current. Within seconds of reaching the earth’s surface, photons from the sun have become electrons and they are then powering devices in homes across the country.

9% to 11% Return on your Investment. A 2kWp system can earn over £500 per year. Your home will also be fitted with a monitoring device to keep track of the total amount of electricity generated by your PV panel Solar system. Solar panels do not need direct sunlight to function and, even on a cloudy day, will generate some electricity. And so, as the daylight hours pass, your earnings will increase. The FITs scheme allows households with solar PV panels to earn money in three ways. Firstly there is the generation tariff, which pays up to 21p for every unit of electricity produced, regardless of whether it is used or exported. Then there is the export tariff – an additional 3.1p paid for every unit exported to the national grid. Finally there is the added bonus of cheaper electricity bills because you will be using power at the source. In addition to the Feed in Tariff payments, an average household using half of the electricity produced can expect to save over £121 per year on their bills.

Home Solar panel systems are hooked up to the national grid so that any extra electricity created by a Solar panel system can be passed through to the national grid. A fee is then paid by the electricity company for every unit of electricity exported. In the UK, an increasing number of households are switching on to the advantages of Renewable Energy and investing in their own Solar photovoltaic panels. Buoyed by financial incentives set up by the Government and supported by energy suppliers, many see an investment in Solar Energy in the UK as a great way to cut bills and make money. Once a reputable company has installed solar panels, a small device called an inverter will convert the DC into AC power. Solar PV Feed In Tariff Summary Available to anyone generating electricity. Payments for 25 years after system installation. Earn from Generating, Exporting and Saving 26

Solar PV panels can be installed without planning permission, except for homeowners in conservation areas or in listed buildings. In which case, advice should be sought from local councils before going any further. Properties will need at least 8m2 of South, South East or South West facing roof space to fit Solar panels, it is also possible to fit Solar to East or West facing roofs with only a small percentage loss in production. Once connected to the grid, systems need very little maintenance. FITs are paid for by the energy companies and are driven by the Government’s desire to create a sustainable energy mix and reduce climate change effects. The ultimate goal is to increase the total percentage of energy that comes from renewable sources from 2% (in 2009) to at least 15% by 2020. It’s little wonder that Governments all over the world have placed their faith in Solar power to create a sustainable future.

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Power from PV panels is emission-free, renewable and easy and cheap to generate. In fact, it’s just about the perfect energy source. But even better for homeowners and families in the UK – it can make money and deliver huge returns on investment. Thanks to the UK’s drive to cut carbon emissions and move away from using dwindling fossil fuels, long-term financial incentives have been put in place for those who invest in solar. The Government must meet targets set out by the Kyoto Protocol and are willing to reward those who help deliver the environmental promises the nation has made to the world. By aiding the country in its bid to reduce carbon emissions, you could make money for years to come and also significantly cut your energy bills. Don’t just take the Government’s word for it that investing in PV panels is a wise decision. Take a look at the numbers for yourself and you’ll see exactly how you can cash in on PV Solar power. Installing PV panels on your roof will cost around £6,000 for a typical (8 panel) 2kWp system whilst a 4kWp system consisting of 16 panels will cost around £8,000. Taking into account the three ways to earn money from PV Feed-in Tariffs (FITs), this initial sum is likely to pay for itself within a decade of the installation of your photovoltaic Solar system. Given that FITs payments are guaranteed for 25 years, there

can be few investments which offer such risk-free, rewarding long-term stability. With almost every sector facing economic uncertainty, even the shrewdest market investor would struggle to find an investment matching this level of security. These figures will likely increase over time as the Feed in Tariff rates are linked to inflation which typically goes up each year, leading to significant savings on energy bills. Larger systems will also produce much bigger returns. Then there is the value a PV Solar system adds to your property. Panels are built to last beyond the 25 year FIT period, meaning the PV panels cost and reward should be factored into the value of your home when you come to sell it on in the future. Other benefits include the fact that Solar panels are noisefree, need little maintenance and can be attached to almost any type of roof surface or can even be ground mounted if you have the space. You may have read in the press that there are free Solar Panels available that allow you to enjoy some of the benefits of Solar for free. However, they work in favour of the installers rather than households and their financial rewards are limited. By allowing a company to put Solar Panels on your property for free, you are effectively depriving yourself of the financial advantages of Solar Energy, namely the Feed-in Tariff. While Solar companies take the payments from the power you have generated, you will only make savings on your electricity bills of anything up to 50%.

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FO O D

D RI NK

Rick Stein's French Odyssey Rick Stein’s passion for fresh well-sourced food has taken him from continent to continent, across magnificent shorelines and to the very best produce the coast has to offer. Rick remarks “My greatest enthusiasm in life has been finding dishes that change my perception of cooking, that reveal a whole new vista of flavour combination. I think we all enjoy that. I’m just someone with an enthusiasm for food and a curiosity that’s sent me sniffing around all over the place looking for lovely dishes in all corners of the globe” Taken from his book ‘French Odyssey’ (BBC Books, £25) here are three of Rick’s favourite recipes inspired by flavours from France.

SERVES 4

French Onion Soup

60 g butter

Heat the butter in a large, heavy-based pan. Add the onions, garlic and sugar and cook over a medium heat, stirring regularly, for 2530 minutes until the onions are really soft and well caramelized.

1 kg onions, halved and thinly sliced 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped 2 teaspoons caster sugar 300 ml dry white wine 1.5 litres Beef stock, browned Bouquest garni of bay leaves, thyme and parsley stalks 4 x 2.5-cm-thick slices French bread 225 g Gruyére or Comté cheese, coarsely grated Salt and freshly ground black pepper 28

Add the wine and leave to simmer rapidly until it has reduced by half. Add the beef stock and bouquet garni, cover and leave the soup to simmer for at least another 30 minutes. Then remove and discard the bouquet garni, and season the soup to taste with salt and pepper. Meanwhile, preheat the over to 150oC/Gas Mark 2. Place the slices of bread onto a baking tray and leave them for 30 minutes to dry out but not get at all brown. Then remove the tray and increase the oven temperature to 220oC/Gas Mark 7. To serve, place a slice of bread into the bottom of each of 4 deep ovenproof soup bowls and ladle the soup on top, making sure the onions and stock are distributed evenly. Cover the top of the soup thickly with the grated cheese, place the bowls onto a sturdy baking tray and bake for 30 minutes until golden and bubbling. You can also place them under a hot grill for 5 minutes if you prefer or are short of time. This soup should be served scalding hot.

SERVES 4 4 trout, each weighing about 300g 40g butter 60g rindless streaky bacon, chopped 175g fresh ceps, trimmed and cut into 4-mm-thick slices 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 tablespoon roughly chopped parsley 25g plain flour 2 tablespoons sunflower oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper FOR THE BEURRE NOISETTE: 75g unsalted butter 2 teaspoons lemon juice 1 heaped tablespoon chopped parsley

Fried trout stuffed with sliced ceps, garlic and diced bacon First you need to remove the bones from the fish. To do this, remove the head of each one, and then, working with one fish at a time, start to cut the top fillet away from the bones until you can get the whole blade underneath the fillet. Then rest a hand on top of the fish and cut the rest of the fillet away from the bones until you are about 2.5cm away from the tail. Turn the fish over and repeat on the other side. Then pull back the top fillet and snip out the backbone, close to the tail, with scissors. The fillets will still be attached at the tail. Repeat with the remaining fish. Melt the butter in a large frying pan and as soon as it is foaming, add the bacon and fry briefly until lightly coloured. Add the sliced ceps and the garlic and toss over a medium-high heat for 1 minute until lightly cooked. Season with salt and pepper and remove from the heat. Lay the prepared trout on a chopping board and pull back the top fillet of each one. Season the outside of each fish with a little more salt and pepper, then dredge with the flour and pat off the excess. Heat the sunflower oil in one very large or 2 slightly smaller frying pans over a moderate heat. Add the fish and fry for 21/2 minutes without moving them until nicely golden. Carefully turn the fish over and cook for another 21/2 minutes, until golden brown on the second side and cooked through. Lift the fish onto warmed plates. Discard the frying oil (from one of the pans if using two) and wipe the pan clean. Add the butter for the beurre noisette and allow it to melt over a moderate heat. As soon as the butter starts to smell nutty and turns light brown, add the lemon juice, parsley and some seasoning. Pour some of the butter over each fish and serve.

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Age UK Wolverhampton (formerly Age Concern Wolverhampton) is a charity that aims to promote the well-being of all older people in the City and help to make later life a fulfilling and enjoyable experience. We support all people over the age of 50, both active and frail, irrespective of race, ethnic origin, gender or religion living within the City of Wolverhampton. You can help us in a number of ways:l Become a volunteer l Support our restaurant - every time you buy a drink or a meal in our restaurant, you are helping to support our charity. l Buy insurance products – the small commission we take on your purchase of insurance products goes direct to the Charity l Make a donation - we welcome all donations, large or small l Leave a legacy - we hope you will show your appreciation of the work that we do for older people. In 2010-11, we had over 10,000 enquiries for Information and Advice.

Hear what our satisfied customers have to say…. “Since taking part in the In Touch Computer Project I can connect with friends, family, or people with similar interests and I can also get access to products, services and information on any subject” “It was nice having someone to talk to and find out what is going on in the outside world” …and what our volunteers think... “I think Age UK (Wolverhampton) is a very good place to volunteer. Staff members are good to work with. I feel it is the best voluntary job I have ever had.” “I enjoy volunteering for Age UK Wolverhampton. I feel a part of a team and enjoy helping older people”.

Promoting the Well-Being Age of allConcern Older People Helping to Make Later Lancashire isLifenow a Fulfilling and Enjoyable Experience Age UK Lancashire Information & Advice 01902 572060 Telephone Support 01902 572064

We are now part of the Age UK family. Visiting 01902 572059 Full of Life 01902 572064 Safety Support 01902 572060 Supportive Hospital Discharge 01902 695517 Hupton House, 93 Darlington Street, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV1 4EX 01902 572060. Age UK Wolverhampton is the trading name of Age Concern Wolverhampton, which is a private company registered under the Companies Act 1985 (registration number 3088739) limited by guarantee and not having a share capital. Age Concern Wolverhampton Age UKaLancashire – a new namenumberWe recognise that growing older For more information, please is also registered charity (registration 1051232).

but the same services – provides 30 information, practical services and support to older people across the county. Our aim is to ensure that

can be difficult at times and that families and carers also need support. We do all we can to help by providing:

contact your nearest Age UK www.50plusmagazine.co.uk office or call our new number on 0300 303 1234, which will cost you no more than a normal

What will you grow this year? variety, and gooseberry Lady Sun, an almost thornless yellow variety, both available from Suttons Seeds.

The beginning of the gardener’s year is always a challenge. There are decisions to make. More vegetables or a new planting scheme? Minimum maintenance or a whole new layout? And what about the lawn?

The Flower Garden

The Lawn Nothing sets off a well tended garden as effectively as a lush green lawn, or detracts from the effect if it’s patchy and sparse. Particularly at the start of the year, the lawn needs a lot of attention and unfortunately, it’s not always enough to mow regularly and feed correctly. Shaggy edges should be kept neatly clipped. Worn areas lightly forked over and re-seeded, then covered with a fine layer of compost. Creeping buttercup and field daisies may need the use of a selective weed killer. Moss is another problem, and generally means the drainage is poor. Raking out the moss by hand, or with an electric scarifyer sometimes helps, as does spiking and incorporating sand, but if the moss persists, then you may need to get more professional advice.

No salad is complete without the sharp refreshing taste of radishes

Vegetables Even the smallest plot can provide a plentiful supply of salads. A newcomer on the scene includes Suttons multigreen lettuce, which has a short crown and no wastage. Sow seeds little and often at fortnightly intervals from March to July, and you’re guaranteed a regular supply, and while you’re sowing your lettuce, find a space for a succession of plantings of radishes from March to September. Sew these in a cool position, and thin early. Water well in dry weather. For variety in your salads, a welcome addition is spinach. Sow from March to mid April, thin early, and use these baby leaves in your mix. Rocket is another easily grown plant, to add that wonderful peppery taste to a green leaf mixture, spring onions give salad rolls an extra zing, and chives are a must with scrambled eggs. 2011 was a bad year for tomatoes, so this year, take extra precautions by siting French marigolds in pots around them. Planting basil nearby also helps, as it’s natural repellent to flies.

Soft Fruit in pots We all love soft fruit, and I’ve just discovered a new range which have a more upright habit, so gooseberries and blackcurrants can be potted up and sited on the patio. Try blackcurrant Noiroma, which is a very sweet, large fruited

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Dahlias are making a big comeback. Grown as part of the general planting scheme, the canny gardener knows that when perennials such as delphiniums and lupins are past their best, dahlias will be coming into their own, continuing to flower at full pitch until the first frost. The tall varieties can provide dramatic accents of colour at the back of the flower beds, and the smaller varieties add interest throughout the garden, and provide plenty of cut flowers for the house. Taller dahlias need to be staked, so position these before planting the tubers, to avoid any accidental damage. I’ve found that although the large flowered pompom varieties look sensational, in a wet summer the flower heads retain too much rain and become too heavy for the stems, which bend under the weight. I generally go for the single flowering varieties, which also look more at home in a mixed herbaceous planting. Dahlias grow in almost any location, and on any soil, although, for best results, good drainage is essential. They can be obtained in almost any colour and any height, as singles, doubles, cactus or dwarf, and at the end of the year, the tubers can be lifted and stored for next year so they’re very economical to grow. And finally, don’t forget the pleasure of growing flowers from seed. As soon as the soil has warmed up, rake over odd bare patches and scatter a mixture of marigolds and cornflowers. Surround the sown area with a drizzle of sand, to remind yourself of where they were planted, and be rewarded with a wonderful splash of colour later in the summer. This works in pots as well. Love in the Mist seeds scattered amongst the geraniums, candytuft in troughs, and nasturtiums amongst the tomatoes. All you need is a packet of seeds and a little imagination, and sometimes, the results are spectacular.

Gardening can be hard work, but consider the rewards. All those seeds producing food to eat, and beauty to enjoy. Is there anything that comes close?

Happy gardening by Sheila Alcock. 31

Urinary incontinence What is urinary incontinence? Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common condition affecting women of all ages. Many are reluctant to seek help for a number of reasons, including embarrassment, not knowing who to approach, thinking that nothing can be done and the concern of their problem not being taken seriously. Quality of life in terms of social, personal and sexual relationships may be affected. However, more and more women are coming forward for help and the good news is that effective treatments are often available. Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is the involuntary loss of urine on sneezing, coughing, laughing or exercise. Urge urinary incontinence (UUI) is leakage of urine preceded by an uncontrollable urge to pass urine. Mixed incontinence is a mixture of the two. Urgency to pass urine, frequent passing of urine and UUI are often referred to as overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms.

Can urinary incontinence be treated? Usually, yes. If you are particularly overweight, weight loss can improve SUI. Also avoid straining and becoming constipated. OAB may be improved by avoiding caffeine (i.e. tea, coffee and fizzy drinks) and maintaining a good fluid intake.

The pelvic floor is like a hammock and consists of a layer of muscles at the base of your pelvis that supports the bladder, womb and bowel.Â Pelvic floor exercises (PFE) are contractions of these muscles and you can increase the strength of these muscles by regularly exercising them. PFE can help both SUI and UUI. For those women who cannot contract their pelvic floor muscles, it may be possible to stimulate contractions by electrical stimulation which is a technique that women can administer themselves following instruction. Other techniques used to strengthen the pelvic floor include biofeedback and vaginal cones. Bladder retraining is a treatment for OAB and is an educational and behavioural process used to reestablish the control of your bladder. Bladder retraining may be taught by a physiotherapist or continence advisor. In many cases, bladder retraining is a matter of breaking bad habits, such as avoiding going to the toilet frequently or at specific times, which many women do even in the absence of a sensation to pass urine, just to keep the bladder empty. One of the aims of bladder retraining is to increase the volume of urine you allow your bladder to hold. Drugs are commonly used to treat UUI and the overactive bladder and can be very effective. Some women need to take medication on a long-term basis. Only one drug has been specifically developed to treat SUI.

What about surgery? For those women with SUI whose symptoms persist despite PFE, the next option may be surgery, which can be very effective. There are a number of minimally invasive procedures which are quick to perform and usually allow a reasonably early return to normal activities. The most popular

operation for SUI is the insertion of mid-urethral tape, which is a meshlike, synthetic sling placed beneath the middle of the urethra (the tube through which you pass urine). A small 1.5cm incision is made in the front wall of the vagina through which the tape is inserted. The tape is then brought out through two 1cm incisions below the bikini line. The tape stays in the body and does not dissolve. It is held in place by the body tissues. The operation takes approximately 20 minutes and most women go home the same day as surgery. In most cases, the patient may drive after a week, return to work in one to two weeks and resume exercise in four weeks. Short-term success rates exceed 85%. 77% of women report still being dry eleven years after surgery. There is a small risk (5.6%) of difficulty passing urine afterwards, but this can be treated. A recent development in the treatment of OAB which has not responded to PFE, bladder retraining and drugs, is the use of muscle paralysis treatment which aims to stop the involuntary contractions of the bladder muscle. The procedure takes about ten minutes. The majority of women report a significant improvement in symptoms. The benefits are not permanent, but can last many months and repeat treatment may be needed. No single treatment is suitable for everyone, but in my experience, the above treatments help a significant proportion of suffering women.

Mr Gurminder Matharu MB ChB, MRCOG Mr Matharu is a Consultant Gynaecologist with a specialist interest in the management of female bladder problems such as urinary incontinence, overactive bladder and cystitis, as well as prolapse of the womb and vagina. He is member of a number of professional bodies, including the British Society of Urogynaecology and International Continence Society.

Midlands Continence Clinic Spire Parkway Hospital, 1 Damson Parkway, Solihull, West Midlands B91 2PP. www.spireparkway.com

1 in 3 women has a 11inin33women womenhas hasaa bladder problem 1bladder in 3 women has a problem bladder problem bladder problem Are you suffering in silence? Are you suffering Are you suffering The good news is that inin silence? silence? youtreatment suffering eAre ective is The good news is that The good news is that readily available. in silence? e eective treatment is is ective treatment readily available. The good news is that readily available. e ective treatment is readily available.

For professional help and advice...

Call 0845 850 1451 For For professional help and and advice... professional help advice... or visit www.spireparkway.com Call 0845 850 1451 Call 0845 850 1451 For professional help and advice... or visit www.spireparkway.com or visit www.spireparkway.com Call 0845 850 1451

Midlands Continence Clinic Spire Parkway Hospital, 1 Damson Parkway, Solihull, West Midlands B91 2PP

Midlands Continence ClinicClinic SpireSpire Parkway Hospital, Midlands Continence Parkway Hospital,

1 Damson Parkway, Solihull, WestWest Midlands B91 2PP or visit www.spireparkway.com 1 Damson Parkway, Solihull, Midlands B91 2PP Midlands Continence Clinic Spire Parkway Hospital, 1 Damson Parkway, Solihull, West Midlands B91 2PP

The Midlands Continence Clinic is a specialist Consultant led practice which helps women with bladder problems and genital prolapse. The The Midlands Continence Clinic is a specialist Midlands Continence Clinic is a specialist Consultant led suffer practice which helps women We canConsultant help if you from: led practice which helps women bladder problems and and genital prolapse. •with Stress incontinence with bladder problems genital prolapse. • Urge Incontinence can you from: Wehelp can if help ifsuffer you suffer from:is a specialist •We Overactive bladder The Midlands Continence Clinic • Stress incontinence • Stress incontinence • Cystitis led practice which helps women Consultant Urge Incontinence • Urge Incontinence •• Bladder pain with bladder problems and genital prolapse. • Overactive bladder • Overactive bladder • Vaginal/uterine prolapse Cystitis We• can if you suffer from: •help Cystitis •Stress Bladder painpain •Treatments incontinence offered include: • Bladder •••Urge Vaginal/uterine prolapse One-to-one physiotherapy and pelvic floor • Incontinence Vaginal/uterine prolapse • Overactive bladder re-education offered include: ••Treatments Cystitis Treatments offered include: Medication One-to-one physiotherapy and pelvic floorfloor •••Bladder pain • One-to-one physiotherapy and pelvic Minimally invasive surgery for stress re-education • Vaginal/uterine re-education incontinence – prolapse eg. TVT, TOT Medication • Medication •• Botulinum toxin for the overactive bladder Treatments offered include: • Minimally invasive surgery for stress • Minimally invasive for stress prolapse. • Pessaries or surgery for surgery • One-to-one physiotherapy and pelvic floor incontinence – eg. TVT, TOT incontinence – eg. TVT, TOT •re-education Botulinum toxintoxin for the bladder • Botulinum for overactive the overactive bladder • •Medication Pessaries or surgery for prolapse. • Pessaries or surgery for prolapse. • Minimally invasive surgery for stress incontinence – eg. TVT, TOT • Botulinum toxin for the overactive bladder • Pessaries or surgery for prolapse.

A Guide to Dentures ....

The Importance of Dentures

Removal Partial Dentures

The eyes, nose and teeth are the focal points of every face; they give the first impressions of your personality.

It was long thought that removable partial dentures had to be rigid to be effective. The innovation of the Valpast flexible partial denture allows the appliance to adapt to the constant movement and flexibility in your mouth.

Natural teeth grow in proportion and in harmony with your facial features and your dentures should be made accordingly. Your teeth, or your dentures, have many important functions: to support your facial muscles, to help formulate your speech, and most importantly to chew your food and start the digestive process. It is very important to chew food properly, as poorly chewed food will take longer to digest, especially for the elderly who could risk problems in the digestive system.

Difficulties in Constructing a Good Set of Dentures Constructing a functional and aesthetically pleasing set of dentures is the most difficult task in dentistry. We are not only replacing lost teeth, but also lost tissue matter and bone. In other words, we have to re-create your facial features as they were before the loss of your natural teeth. In most cases we do not know what your teeth looked like, what size they were or what position they were in originally. We have a few indications but mostly we have to rely on our visual and artistic judgement. At the same time we have to use our technical expertise in order to make the denture stable and functional. Denture construction is more art than science.

Choice of Dentures There are three main quality standards in denture materials: Denture Base Acrylics: standard quality, high impact much stronger non brittle and the latest thermoplastic. Denture Teeth: 2-layer acrylic very basic and cheap, 3-layer acrylic re-enforced much harder, 4-layer composite extra hard and natural looking. However, good materials on their own will not make good dentures. A skilful and experienced clinician and technician are required. The best results are achieved when the whole job is done by the same person. 34

The preparation is relatively simple as your natural teeth donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to be altered. The Valpast flexible partial denture is virtually invisible, no telltale metal clasps and the material itself blends with the tissue in your mouth so that the only thing that shows is your beautiful smile.

How Long Should Dentures Last? The question we should ask is, how long will my dentures be functional for? Dentures can last twenty or more years, but will lose their function (chewing ability, proper fit etc.) probably after two years. This will depend on many factors: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Quality of dentures. Age of Patient. General health of patient. Any drastic change in weight.

Dentures Need Regular Servicing Dentures are in constant use almost 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are also in a pretty hostile environment in the mouth, being attacked by strong acid, bacteria, hot, cold and spicy food. Denture material absorbs liquids and food odour. Daily cleaning is essential as well as professional ultrasonic cleaning in a dental laboratory at least once a year. Due to constant bone resorbtion dentures will become loose sooner or later. Loose dentures will increase damage to the gums and bone structure, and increase the risk of breakage. Have them re-lined as soon as possible to get a good fit. It only takes a day or two. Have your dentures inspected by a dentist or denturist at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.

Your Dentures need Attention 1. When they become loose. 2. When teeth or denture base discolours. 3. When tooth surfaces become flat.

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4. 5. 6. 7.

When denture base does not fit around natural teeth (in partial dentures). When you develop deep lines around your mouth. When your chin sticks out, and the corners of your lips are constantly wet, developing sores. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.

Loose Dentures Can be re-lined by adding a thin layer of the new acrylic to fit the surface of the dentures, making them fit better (takes one or two days).

Dentures with worn down teeth Teeth can be replaced with a new set.

Major improvements in Facial Features Padding dentures to reduce lines and fill up sunken cheeks will require a new set of dentures. It is advisable to have a new set of dentures made every 5 to 10 years.

Should I have a spare set of Dentures made? Yes, it is very important to have a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage.

Where do I go to have a good set of Dentures made? Every dentist can make dentures, but not all of them will specialise in denture making.

Summary 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Clean your dentures daily with a denture brush and denture cream. Have your dentures inspected every two years, and re-lined or ultra-sonically cleaned. Have a new set made every 5 years if possible. Keep a spare set for emergencies. Remember, dentures do not have to hurt and do not need to be uncomfortable. With a new set of dentures, you should receive a written guarantee, a detailed prescription of the materials used in your dentures, cleaning and servicing instructions, and a cleaning kit. Dentures so life-like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d think they were real.

What is a Clinical Dental Technician? Professional Clinical Dental Technicians are members of the Dental Health Care Team. They have undergone specific training and education in the skills and knowledge necessary to provide a removable appliance service directly to the community. Equipped with solid technical training as a Dental Technician - plus post-technician training in sciences, clinical skills, and interpersonal skills - the Clinical Dental Technician can design, create, construct and modify (repair and rebase) removable appliances to ensure optimal fit, maximum comfort and general well-being of patients. These skills enable the Clinical Dental Technician, whilst remaining a member of the Dental Health Care Team, to work independently of other Dental Health Care providers.

Ask your Dental Technician for recommendations of suitable Dentist.

... A Natural Smile

Can your dentures pass the CLOSE-UP TEST? Our quality made dentures are guaranteed to pass the closeup test because we only use the most-up-to-date materials and techniques to created natural looking dentures that

â&#x20AC;&#x153;MAKE YOU FEEL AND LOOK GREATâ&#x20AC;? It is very important to seek professional advice before you choose the denture that will suit your lifestyle. State-of-the-art dentures must be able to restore the natural movements of the jaw and phonetics.

In addition, they must be compatible with the sensitive tissues in the mouth. Dentures should be comfortable to wear, so that they are taken for granted during eating and speaking. Most importantly, the correct denture will restore a carefree smile to your face.

Kings Heath Denture Centre 4d Heathfield Road, Kings Heath, Birmingham B14 7DB. 0121 444 8080 www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT Saturday 21st July History of the Valley

be moved into the Arts Complex Theatre. The first 336 tickets sold are guaranteed a seat in the Theatre in this situation. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.solihullartscomplex.co.uk

Smestow Valley Local Nature Reserve Meadow View Terrace (off Henwood Road) Newbridge, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 5ET. 11am - 1pm.

Thursday 2nd to Sunday 5th August Robert Wilkinson’s Funfair

Interested in history? Come and join us in discovering the history of Smestow Valley. Please book early to avoid disappointment. Tel: 01902 552351 www.about.me/smestowvalley

Meriden Park Come and enjoy all the fun of the fair as this popular event returns to Meriden Park for the second time this year. There are thrills, spills and rides suitable for all ages, as well as chances to win prizes and catering galore. Don’t miss it!

Tuesday 31st July The Railway Children

Wednesday 8th August Fun Festival 2: We are the Champions!

Start time 7.00pm. Running times 2 hours including interval Brueton Park

11.00am - 3.00pm Meriden Park

Mysteriously separated from their father, Bobbie and her family relocate to “Three Chimneys” in Yorkshire. As endless days stretch before them, the family set about establishing themselves and making friends in the village. The allimportant railway runs like a life vein through the community and its importance grows - learning from the people in and around it, the children rediscover and piece their family back together as the story steams towards its heart-warming and iconic end.

Calling all Usain Bolts! To commemorate the London Olympics, our second Fun Festival continues the sporting theme with plenty of races, sporting activities and entertainment for you to enjoy. With medals for the winners, sports-themed craft activities and a treasure trail, this event is a sporting triumph! £1 per person for the craft activities and a small charge for some of the other attractions.

Thursday 9th August Bat Walk 1

Bring a blanket, seat, picnic and warm clothing. Always check availability if you intend to buy on the gate as shows often sell out in advance. In the event of extreme weather the show will

8.00pm - 10.00pm Elmdon Park

CONSIDER GERMAN HEATING NOW - WARM WEATHER INSTALLATION Simple to install, Powerful, and no more servicing - EVER!

A lifetime of heating, amazingly efficient, fully controllable, slim and attractive. Heating is a major purchase in our life. Not just the cost of buying a system but the cost of the energy to run it and, just as importantly, the costs to maintain it. Maintenance - get rid of the maintenance costs all together. A Sunflow guarantee of 12 years will do the trick - nobody inspecting every year - with heating that has a life expectancy of 40 to 50 years! A Sunflow heater is well made and hand finished in Germany. So if you add maintenance and depreciation prevalent in other systems this could easily be a 30% reduction in costs in the first 12 years. That’s just the start!

Over 200 beautiful colours On feet, castors or wall mounted

Energy Management - often called modular heating, Sunflow German built electric heaters allow total control of heating costs. Every room can be time and temperature controlled, far more accurately than any form of wet system. We have a range of controls from simple manual thermostats and timers, to switching on your heat from remote locations. Ask for advice. Whatever controls you choose you will be able to decide where and when to use energy.

A ReAl AlteRnAtive 36

Efficiency - the reason a Sunflow heater is incredibly efficient is the naturally occurring refractory clay core. Called chamotte, we embed a pure tungsten element into the clay and this combination allows us to heat large surface areas with a comparatively low electrical input, thus making our heaters very economic to run. It all sounds very scientific but to the sceptical we offer a simple demonstration. (See our brochure).

Get your FREE brochure by calling our 24hr Brochure Line on: 0800 158 8270 or email: info@sunflowltd.co.uk

Questions? Call Suzanne on 0800 158 8272

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oil/GAs HeAtinG - Ask About ouR ReplAcement seRvice www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Ever wondered how to track down a bat? Find out with the help of our Park Rangers and their bat detectors. Discover the nocturnal world of this fascinating creature - a brilliant evening for all the family! Tickets cost £3 per person or £10 per family ticket (2 adults and up to three children under 16). Places are limited so to book in advance, contact 0121 704 8000. Meet by the Tanhouse Farm Road car park.

Thursday 16th August Bat Walk 2 8.00pm - 10.00pm Babbs Mill LNR Try to spot our resident bats zooming around the night sky. If you don’t see them, you will definitely hear them with our high-tech bat detectors! Tickets cost £3 per person or £10 per family ticket (2 adults and up to three children under 16). Places are limited so to book in advance, contact 0121 704 8000. Meet at the car park off Fordbridge Road, between Oakthorpe Drive and Dunton Road.

Wednesday 22nd August Fun Festival 4: Summer Holiday! 11.00am - 3.00pm Olton Jubilee Park Take a holiday in the park with our spectacular seaside Fun Festival! There will be a Punch and Judy Show and lots of summer entertainment for you to enjoy, as well as a treasure trail and themed craft activities. £1 per child for the treasure trail and craft activity, plus a small charge for some of the other attractions. Meet by the park entrance off Lyndon Road.

Thursday 23rd August Wetland Wildlife 2pm - 4pm. Smestow Valley Local Nature Reserve Meadow View Terrace (off Henwood Road) Newbridge, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 5ET. Always wanted to learn more about wetland wildlife? Join us at Smestow Valley in discovering what inhabits the brook and canal areas. Please book early to avoid disappointment.

Sunday 26th August Music in the Park 4: Brass Magic! 2.00pm - 4.15pm Elmdon Park There is a fitting finale to our series of Music events with a rousing performance from a local brass band. Bring along a picnic, sit back and enjoy the show - a perfect way to spend a Bank Holiday Sunday afternoon! Meet by the car park on Tanhouse Farm Road.

Wednesday 29th August Fun Festival 5: All the Fun of the Fair! 11.00am - 3.00pm Lavender Hall Park Roll up, roll up to the last Fun Festival of the year! Come and join us at our traditional funfair where there will be children’s rides and stalls galore! Take part in our treasure trail and come along in fancy dress for a chance to win in our competition. Craft activities also available - £1 per child for the craft and treasure trail, with a small charge for some of the other attractions.

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September Snowstorms! Normally, as the nights get longer and cooler, our thoughts turn back to heating our homes properly. Due to the fact Sunflow heaters are made in Germany, demand from Russia, Northern Scandinavia and Eastern Europe is driven by hard frosts and September snowfalls. Sounds cold and it is. Therefore, in order not to miss out on warm weather installation, the time to prepare is now. Do you want to continue with oil, lpg, gas or night storage heaters? Or, do you want to consider a different type of heating, one with a massive pedigree in Europe and rapidly growing in popularity in Britain. Sunflow radiators are slim, economical and extremely efficient. A real alternative with no maintenance and a full twelve year guarantee. Built to suit your home, they can form an impressive energy management system that individually controls the temperature and timing of every room. Sunflow offers expertise to combat cold exposed locations so your living areas will never be uncomfortable, even if temperatures drop significantly. Our surveyors are located where you are and will give you all the advice you need to plan a warm and comfortable future. Our secret is simple, we do the mathematical equations that guarantee the heat you require in living areas. By calling now, you have time to obtain a quotation and book a summer/ autumn installation. For further details call Suzanne on 0800 158 8272.

Tuesday 18th September Ramble on the Reserve 12.30pm - 3.30pm Smestow Valley Local Nature Reserve Meadow View Terrace (off Henwood Road) Newbridge, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 5ET. Come and join us for a ramble around the whole of Smestow Valley. Not suitable for push chairs or young children.

Wednesday 19th September Autumn Planting and Clean up Day 10.30am - 12.00pm Tudor Grange Park It’s the time of year to start bulb planting ready for the Spring and Summer, and there is always other work to be done in the parks! Volunteers can help to make a difference by tackling tasks including fence maintenance, graffiti removal, litter picking and other manual jobs. Gloves, sturdy shoes and old clothes or overalls are essential as you may get dirty - but all in a good cause. Meet by the skate park.

Wednesday 26th September Autumn Planting and Clean up Day 10.30am - 12.00pm Lavender Hall Park It’s the time of year to start bulb planting ready for the Spring and Summer, and there is always other work to be done in the parks! Volunteers can help to make a difference by tackling tasks including fence maintenance, graffiti removal, litter picking and other manual jobs. Gloves, sturdy shoes and old clothes or overalls are essential as you may get dirty - but all in a good cause. Meet at the car park. 37

ARE YOU ONE OF THE SANDWICH GENERATION? In 1957, Harold McMillan told the British public ‘we’d never had it so good’ and it was true we were enjoying better health and prosperity. Inevitably, this led to longer life spans, and the phenomena of the sandwich generation. At the beginning of the 20th century, around 6% of people in their sixties still had one parent living. Today the figure is around 50%. At the same time, in 2000, 52% of young adults were living with their parents, and this figure is still rising. This has led to a situation where couples coming up to retirement are caring for ageing parents, while still supporting their adult children. This is the sandwich generation, worrying about financing their own retirement, their parents and their children. While many 80 year olds are still hale and hearty, there are many who need constant care and attention, resulting in huge stress levels for those responsible for them. If you’re one of these, it’s time to take stock and explore all avenues. which could help.

PLAN AHEAD Difficult as it may be, you need to discuss issues with your parents. Discuss their assets, check with them where they want to live, and who should make legal and medical decisions if they are no longer capable of handling their affairs. The decision of where they wish to live may be taken out of your hands, if they reach a stage when they need full time care. At this stage, it’s important to find a nursing home with staff who treat their elderly residents with respect, and which provides a pleasant environment for your parents to live out their remaining years. This is easier said than done. First you need to research available government help to fund care, and ensure that your parents are correctly assessed to ensure they’re getting all the funding they are

entitled to. Age Concern provides a number of detailed booklets on this issue. Take full advantage of your computer. Search websites for ratings, send for brochures, and most importantly of all, pay several visits to possible nursing homes. In an effort to help families looking for nursing homes, a new online system is planned, to be published on a website which will also disclose official inspection reports. Nursing homes will be graded according to star ratings, Trip Advisor style.

ORGANISATIONS TO EXPLORE NHS Choices provides a comprehensive health information service on finding and using NHS services in England. The Directgov website contains information about public services all in one place. Age Concern and Help the Aged have combined to become Age UK, which provides a huge body of information and advice to older people and their relatives.

Regular bath height

The low low bath range of easy access showers on display at our Birmingham Distributors, Birmingham Bathroom Warehouse, Hall Green, 1205 Stratford Road Open 7 days a week 38

CARE IN THE HOME It may be that care in the home is the preferred option, and this is where you need to spend time making sure that all available help from your local council is fully explored, and a correct assessment of necessary care is arrived at. Check out the Care Quality Commission. This is the independent regulator of health and adult social care in England. It registers care services that meet standards and make constant inspections to check that these standards are kept and take action if standards fall. Direct Payments are a Government initiative designed to give people the freedom to purchase their own care and

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CARE

PRESERVE YOUR ASSETS

support, so since 2002 all Social Services departments offer the option of a Direct Payment to people who receive a social care and support service.

The only person who can save for your retirement is you. To avoid many sandwich generation problems - and help your parents and your children - you first have to keep your own financial house in order. Try not to raid your own retirement savings to pay for your children’s college education or your parents’ long-term care. Students should take out student loans if necessary, and you should use your parents own assets to finance their care for as long as possible.

Following an assessment by their local Social Services the person receiving the direct payments can use the money for different types of services. These include: • Personal care and support • Day care (including domestic help) • ‘Mixed’ packages of support • Short-term residential care • Items of equipment Direct Payments can also be used for employing a ‘personal assistant’ or arranging care from a private agency. Your local Social Services team will be able to advise you further. There are many benefits to Direct Payments – they allow a greater level of flexibility and freedom for the person who needs the care and support. By employing a care and support worker directly, there is greater choice as to whom the person has looking after them; what times they come and what tasks they perform. People who are eligible to receive a Direct Payment, instead of their ‘usual’ support include: • • • • •

Older People who need social care services People with physical disability who are over 16 People with a learning disability who are over 16 Disabled Parents would receive payments for the needs of their children (non educational) Carers over 16

FISHER FUTURE HEAT BIRMINGHAM.pdf 1 22/05/2012 10:49

And finally, remember you’re all in this together. Don’t be a martyr. Take control and get the whole family on board to help. Getting stressed is counter productive, so make sure you get some time for yourself. Young adults still at home can occasionally take over household duties and visit their grandparents. They could accompany them on hospital visits or doctors’ appointments, and gain enormously from increased contact with an older generation. This is a time in your life when your parents and your children are dependent on you, so look after your health, take time out to keep up with your friends, and keep your sense of humour. Nothing lasts forever, and sooner or later, your children will find their independence and fly the nest. You’ll miss them when they go. Make the most of your time with them. Cherish your parents. They won’t be with you forever, so while you’re coping with their problems, remember how they once helped you with yours, and give them a hug from time to time.

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