Blackburn issue 44 by 50 Plus Magazine

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BLACKBURN & BURNLEY

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FEBRUARY - APRIL 2015

EDITION 44

Jane McDonald Still Following Her Dreams

Hairy Bikers

Healthy Low Calorie Recipes

New Looks for your Home this Spring

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s

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HASN’T MRS JONES GOT BEAUTIFUL EYES? As a qualified optician will tell you, the picture

to check your vision, and a close visual inspection of

suggests that Mrs Jones’s eyes were actually in

your eye using an opthalmoscope. We may also use a

perfect health. Occasionally, however, during an

slit lamp, a machine rather like a large microscope, to

eye examination, we will spot problems you may

examine the outside of your eye in detail.

not have been aware of. Some eye conditions, such

In addition, as part of our continual commitment

as Glaucoma, can lead to blindness if they are not

to offer you the best in eye care we may also

detected and treated early enough, and occasionally

offer fundus camera imaging as part of your eye

eye examinations can even save lives. Your optician

examination. These high-tech cameras produce

could be the first person to detect high blood

detailed digital images of your retina, like the ones

pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol.

printed here, which can help your optician to detect

That’s why our eye examination is a detailed and

any potential problems as early as possible.

methodical process carried out by expert opticians,

Last, but by no means least, we discuss your

designed to ensure that your eyes are in perfect health.

eye-care needs with you. Once we have talked over

We’ll ask you questions about your eye care

the results of the tests we have carried out we will

needs, taking into account your work, eye care

give you a copy of your prescription and, if necessary,

history, sports and hobbies, computer use and

introduce you to another member our team who will

driving requirements. We carry out a ‘puff’ pressure

help you choose some new spectacles or book you in

test to check for early signs of glaucoma, and may

for a contact lens fitting.

use a field test to check your vision. We will examine

Specsavers is number one for eye tests, and one in

the movement of your eyes and where appropriate

three people who wear glasses buy their glasses from

we’ll carry out tests for colour and reaction to light.

us.* We’re committed to remaining first choice for eye

We will arry out a subjective sight test using lenses

care. And to making sure your eyes stay beautiful.

Book an eye test or buy glasses online at specsavers.co.uk

Blackburn Morrisons Railway Road. Blackburn 2101432 Lord353Street Hereford 12 Maylord Street. Tel: 464 Mall.

Tel: 01254 682 504 Tel: 01254 580 099

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plus free eye test

Formby 3 The Cloisters, Halsall Lane. Tel 01704 832 311 Ormskirk Church Street. Tel 01695 587 920 Southport 19 Eastbank Street. Tel 01704 501 944 Blackburn Morrisons Railway Rd Tel 01254 682 504

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Applies to one pair of glasses, from £69 range or above. Includes all frames, lenses and Extra Options. Excludes reglazes, safety eyewear, Cannot be used with other offers. Choose any two pairs of varifocal glasses from the £69-£149 ranges, and PENTAX scratch-resistant varifocal lenses from £49, and pay for just one. Second pair from thelens same products price range orand below non-prescription and to the same prescription. Applies to 1.5 scratch-resistant lenses. Extra available at anDiscount additional charge both pairs. SKU 25381634. contact sunglasses. Cannot be used withOptions other offers. notontransferable in whole or part for cash. ©2013 Specsavers. All rights reserved. Free eye test funded by the NHS. SKU 25666120. ©2015 Specsavers. All rights reserved.

CONTENTS

13-14

16-17

INSIDE... 6-7

Time to Tread a New Path ... Get your boots on and get healthier

10-11

River Cruising in Style ... Chrissy Nason from Silver Travel Advisor shares here experience

13-14

The Great British Holiday ... The best holidays here at home

16-17

Jane McDonald ... The no-messing Yorkshire lass with a powerful singing voice

20-22

New Looks for your Home this Spring ... Freshen your home with our guide

28-31

Low Fat Recipes ... From the Hairy Dieters

34-35

50+ Event A Day to Remember

27-28

20-21 36-39

Out and About ... Places to Visit and Things to Do

44-45

Independent Living ... Helping you Stay in Your Own Home.

6th Floor | 120 Bark Street | Bolton | BL1 2AX T: (01204) 860 194 | F: (01204) 860 213 e: admin@mcgrathmedia.co.uk

Wiltshire Farm Foods. Just heat, and eat. It really is that easy. A conventional oven or a microwave will do the job, just leaving you to enjoy! We offer a choice of over 260 tasty dishes, including special diet options. Our meals are created using carefully selected ingredients, frozen and then delivered with free delivery by your local team. They can be stored in the freezer and cooked in minutes. Chicken & Vegetable Casserole £2.95 Introductory Menu Pack only £19.95 5 main courses with vegetables: Roast Pork in Apple Gravy Shepherds Pie Chicken & Vegetable Casserole Steak & Kidney Pie Bangers & Mash 4 desserts: Apple Pie & Custard Jam Sponge & Custard Lemon Sponge with Lemon Sauce & Custard Apple Crumble & Custard Order code IN4 4

What’s more there’s no commitment. Order what you want, when you want. Mealtimes taken care of. Simple. Main meals from £2.95

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Primrose Bank Caravan Park - Weeton Relax, Meet Other People & Have Fun... We are an award winning conservation site with superb standards and a real sense of community. Escape to a hidden gem, with abundant wildlife, trees and bucket loads of peace and quiet. An idyllic setting in which to make new friends and memories...

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Freedom to holiday whenever you like Affordable running costs Stunning rural and coastal settings Friendly and helpful staff Fishing and golf nearby Situated just outside of Blackpool Fantastic facilities for all the family Close to attractions and leisure facilities

Call us today on 01253 836 273 High Moor Farm, Singleton Road, Weeton, PRESTON PR4 3JJ e: enquiries@primrosecaravanpark.co.uk | www.primrosecaravanpark.co.uk

Est.1923

Coach Holidays

Why not take advantage of one of our Amazing Spring Offers -

SPECIAL

SPRING OFFERS

when they are gone, they are gone, so don't delay!!

5/7 DAYS - 4/6 NIGHTS DINNER, BED & BREAKFAST plus 2 EXCURSIONS Eastbourne Imperial Hotel

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Torquay

Abbey Lawn Hotel

(5 Days Dinner, Bed & Breakfast) Imperial & Abbey Lawn Hotels ONLY

Date

Price

22 Feb

15 Feb

£129

02 Mar £129

£129

(5 Days Dinner, Bed & Breakfast) ALL HOTELS

The Imperial Hotel is located just a stone's throw away from the promenade and bandstand, this grand Victorian hotel is full of character and home to a number of spacious, comfortable bedrooms, all accessible via lifts. 5 Days Includes 2 Excursions: ● Battle, Tenterden & Rye ● Worthing and Brighton. 7 Days Includes 2 Excursions: ● Battle, Tenterden & Rye ● Hever Castle.

Situated in a premier location with an idyllic seaside position, the charming, well-appointed Ocean View Hotel boasts uninterrupted panoramic views across Sandown Bay. 5 Days Includes 2 Excursions: ● Island Tour ● Amazon World and Cowes. 7 Days Includes 2 Excursions: ● Island Tour ● Ryde and The Isle of Wight Steam Railway.

If you're looking to unwind in style, this elegant Georgian hotel is the place to stay. Located in the grounds of the former Torre Abbey with stunning views of the bay, the Abbey Lawn Hotel offers an exceptional standard of comfort throughout. 5 Days Includes 2 Excursions: ● Full Day Excursion to Plymouth ● Teignmouth, Dawlish and Exeter. 7 Days Includes 2 Excursions: ● Dartmoor & Totnes ● Plymouth with Naval Harbour Cruise.

09 Mar £139

08 Apr

£179

16 Mar £139

13 Apr

£189

23 Mar £145

20 Apr

£199

30 Mar £159

26 Apr

£199

03 Apr

£169

(7 Days Dinner, Bed & Breakfast) ALL HOTELS

30 Mar £219 05 Apr

£229

12 Apr

£249

19 Apr

£259

26 Apr

£279

03 May £319

Book with conﬁdence, you will only pay the lowest advertised price on any of the above departures ... That's our Guarantee.

Freephone: 0800 083 9900 Visit us online at www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk

IMPERIAL HOTEL POSTCARD.indd 11

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Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP. 19/12/2014 09:58

50 Plus Travel

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River cruising in style By Chrissy Nason from Silver Travel Advisor Following a long travel career, Chrissy Nason brings her experience and eye for stylish detail as an advisor and travel writer for Silver Travel Advisor, the information and review website for mature travellers. For my first river-cruise experience I was delighted to be invited by Avalon Waterways on their inaugural 3 night sailing of Poetry II, from Cologne to Amsterdam. First impressions didn’t disappoint: sleek, elegant, with a full-length sky deck, spacious lounge and dining areas, the ship exudes style. The staterooms (cabins) have the benefit of wall-towall panoramic windows to facilitate maximum viewing and create a balcony within the room. Beautifully decorated in contemporary style and furnished

to a high standard, the staterooms are luxurious and comfortable. Storage in small spaces, always a challenge, was plentiful. The marble tiled bathroom and shower was a decent size, beautifully appointed, with complimentary L’Occitaine toiletries. Ready to explore, I opted to join a walking tour of the city centre, keen to get a feel for Cologne before sailing later that afternoon. All destination excursions have an expert local guide and individual audio sets to give a personalized experience. Cologne is home to Eau de Cologne, the fragrance created in 1709 by Johann Maria Fabrina. The original shop has its own little museum and although they now offer a wide range of fragrances, the original cologne is still sold. The Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an architectural masterpiece and famous as the home of the shrine of The Three Wise Men, whose remains were brought to Cologne in the 12th century. The Cathedral miraculously escaped the WW2 bombing, apparently the spires were used as a navigational landmark to target the main railway

station located immediately next door. A few minutes walk back to the ship, a short mandatory safety drill and with the sun setting behind the Cathedral’s spires, we set sail. Relaxation and dining room facilities are plentiful and spacious for the ship’s 128 passenger capacity. After a pre-dinner drink in the lounge we headed down to a delicious dinner: typically, a three or four course a la carte menu, including regional dishes, with complimentary wine or local beer. The food throughout was very good with a choice of hot food to order or a buffet and salad bar. The next morning we docked at Tiel with a choice of sightseeing: Arnhem or the Kroller-Muller museum (Van Gogh paintings). Most of us opted for Arnhem. We drove over the famous reconstructed bridge to Oosterbeek and Villa Hartenstein, now an excellent museum. We also visited the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery. Surrounded by woods, viewed through mist and rain it was deeply moving. After lunch we sailed a short distance to Willemstad, a small picturesque town with well-preserved fortifications and a

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TRAVEL lovely octagonal church where we were treated to an organ recital. Back to the ship, another memorable supper and a great night’s entertainment from a local group who had everyone tapping and clapping and yours truly on the dance floor. Overnight we sailed to Dordrecht with a choice of excursions: the worldfamous Keukenhof tulip gardens or the Kinderdijk Dutch windmill heritage site. I opted for the Keukenhof Gardens, an hour’s drive. Open only 8 weeks each year, the gardens offer a stunning horticultural display: 7 million spring-time flowers within a wooded landscaped park with 700 tulip varieties. Back on board, I requested a tour of the ship. Erik, the Cruise Director, pointed out some subtle design features: “slightly higher chairs and tables, perfect for those guests who can no longer touch their toes” he said giving me a knowing look. Coffee tables that can be raised to dining table height to allow guests inroom dining, should they prefer. The skydeck, a tremendous space for sunbathing and watching the world go by, with a hot-tub, loungers and a bistro area for lunchtime barbecue grills. Certainly, for someone like me who suffers from seasickness, one of the joys of this cruise was the gentle, relaxing, motion of the ship. I rarely felt any vibrations and in the superbly comfortable beds (complete with memory foam mattress topper) I slept very well. Soundproofed cabins, Avalon’s state of the art design, quiet engines and generators no doubt helped, though the wine probably played its part too! A river cruise with Avalon ticks a lot of boxes: inclusive guided on-shore excursions; full-board a la carte dining with complimentary local wines and beers; onboard gratuities; transfers and a private chauffeured taxi from your home to the nearest UK airport or Eurostar station (within a 100 mile radius). How good is that? We arrived in Amsterdam all too soon. Most people chose to add an additional hotel night to allow for sightseeing, but my flight home beckoned. After such a wonderful experience I’ve already got my eye on Avalon’s themed Opera cruise next year: on-board performances as you glide down the Danube from Budapest to Prague. I can’t think of a better way to experience Europe’s rich heritage.

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Sample Itinerary for 2015 ‘ Tulip Time’ The eight day Tulip Time cruise takes in the tranquil, open landscapes of Holland and Belgium and the Keukenhof’s magnificent spring flowers and the wooden windmills of Kinderdijk on this memorable river cruise. Highlights include an orientation walk in Veere, a canal cruise in cosmopolitan Amsterdam, sights with Local Guides in Antwerp, Ghent and Middelburg and the fascinating city of Maastricht. Cruises run from 31 March until 1 May 2015 and prices include return flights and airport transfers, a door-to-door home pick up service, a seven night full board deluxe cruise with wine and beers served with dinner, on-board gratuities and included excursions.

Avalon Waterways 0800 668 1801 or visit www.avaloncruises.co.uk

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

Moving PEOPLE in Style Door to Door Holidays

Moving PEOPLE provide award winning high quality holidays for today’s discerning clientele. Our holidays are created by our own tour director using customer feedback to provide that personal touch and holidays to the places our customers love. Our special holidays for this year include the Matlock River Illuminations, Carols by Candlelight in London and of course Les Machines de L’ile in Nantes northern France, where we ride the Sultans Elephant and visit the Jules Verne Museum with creations made famous by the visit of the Little Girl Giant to Liverpool in 2014. This stunning fairy-tale town is well worth a visit. Along with our favourite destinations such

as Sidmouth, Babbacome and Llandudno we create holidays to suit all tastes and pockets. As standard with all our holidays we provide a full door to door service, newspapers and refreshments on boarding. The coach then travels direct to our destination stopping for breakfast and afternoon coﬀee on longer journeys and lunch on shorter trips.

• • • • • • •

Door-to-door service Direct coach Meals en-route included Full luggage porter service Hand picked independent hotels Financial security Personal friendly service

On arrival at your destination your luggage will be taken directly to your room. All this is included in the cost of your holiday as are admissions and half-board accommodation at our hand-picked hotels.

A small sample of our destinations for 2015 Irvine at Easter - Friday 3rd to Tue 7th April. 5 Days £369 Menzies Irvine Hotel. Inverness All inclusive - Sunday 26th April to Thursday 30th April. 5 Days £499 Inverness Palace & Spa Hotel. Bournemouth - Monday 4th May to Friday 8th May. 5 Days £409 East Cliﬀ Hotel. Isle of Wight - Sunday 17th May to Friday 22nd May. 6 Days £549 Channel View Hotel. Minehead - Monday 13th July to Friday 17th July. 5 days £549 Northﬁeld Hotel. Les Machines, Nantes - Sunday 2nd August to Friday 7th Aug. £661 6 Days Novotel. Isle of Arran - Monday 28th September to Friday 2nd Oct. 5 Days £469 Kinloch Hotel. Single Supplement charges may apply. Call for details

Call for your free copy of our 2015 brochure...

01254 872000

www.movingpeopleltd.co.uk | travel@movingpeopleltd.co.uk

TRAVEL in Wales and Loch Lomond in Scotland. “Yes,” he insists, “like everyone, we appreciate going to beautiful places in the UK.” If we can stand back a little from the whole subject of holidays and try to take a dispassionate look at what the UK has to offer, there really is something for every traveller and taste. You can take the whole family – including the dog – to a luxury cabin in ancient woodland in the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, or wake each day on the banks of an ancient millpond in a beautiful dwelling in Deerpark in Cornwall, deep in a peaceful wooded valley. You can take your touring caravan or motorhome to places like Holgates Holiday Parks, set in some of Cumbria and Lancashire’s most stunning countryside, dotted along the picturesque Morecambe Bay shoreline.

The Great British Holiday IF there is one thing that the recession has taught us it’s about getting value for money. And it’s not just being proBritish to say that you can now get the best holidays here at home. ABTA – the well-respected Association of British Travel Agents – says that their recent research shows that 20 per cent of people surveyed would be spending more on holidays in 2015. They also discovered that nearly seven in 10 people, that’s 68 per cent, took at least one UK holiday last year. Mark Tanzer, ABTA’s chief executive, believes that good weather in the UK in June and July helped. He says that “the research shows there are reasons to be optimistic for 2015.” All of which is no surprise to the thousands of tourists who flock into Great Britain each year from other countries around the world. They come determined to discover the many attractions here. Perhaps we Brits are simply slower to pick up on noticing the wonders around us, but we are getting better at it.

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Andy Kinnaird from Robinsons Coaches knows that the Great British Holiday is very attractive to the homegrown market. His business, based near Blackburn in Lancashire, was established in 1923 and today has 23 coaches with more than 160 staff kept busy dealing with this burgeoning travel market. He finds that more people than ever are opting to stay in the UK for their annual holidays, citing “the hassle of going through customs and airports etc” as well as the constant discovery of new places without ever leaving these shores. Favourite destinations for the many people he takes on their holidays around the country include the Isle of Wight, Eastbourne and Torquay. More unusual destinations are the Hebrides, the Isle of Man and the Scilly Isles, although he does transport some foreign visitors like the Australian couple who wanted to tour Scotland. Andy and his family shunned the charms of the Costas and the Balearics last year for the delights of Camarthen

Just as caravans have “grown up” in the last 20 years from being fairly basic to fairly fabulous statics with every modern facility and a genuinely comfortable home away from home, so have the holiday parks themselves been transformed. Holgates, for example, has parks to suit everyone, whether you and your family like it lively with plenty of facilities to havens of peace and tranquillity where turning the page of a good book is the most movement you want to undertake. As Simon Waterhouse from Holgates explains: “We’ve taken the awards for the Best Holiday Park in Cumbria and in Lancashire for the last two years so we’ve a lot to live up to.” He’s noticed that more Brits than ever are enjoying the enduring pleasures of holiday parks, investing in holiday homes there and returning again and again. “Our park in Silverdale is in one of the most beautiful parts of the country so we have plenty of families who have been coming here for years,” states Simon.“ But the greater complexity of travel now – the greater security and the longer time it all takes to go away – probably helps people to choose to holiday in this country.” If you like walking, you can see the ruggedly beautiful hills of Wales or the sleepy villages set in rural

REEVES COACH HOLIDAYS HF Northumbrian

TEL: 01254 830545 House Party

9th - 13th March www.reevescoachholidays.com Nether Grange House info@reevescoachholidays.com Alnmouth £279.00

Turkey and

Superb Sandbanks, Poole Tinsel Break and the New Forest Trouville Hotel, 15th - 19th March Bournemouth 17th-21st November Sandbanks Hotel

Torquay, Steam Trains and Ferry Boats 22nd - 26th March Livermead Cliff Hotel

£339.00 £259.00

£339.00 Worcester Easter inVictorian Devon Christmas Fair and 3rd - 7th April Best Western the Good Food Show Tiverton at the NEC Hotel

£375.00

29th-30th November

£139.00 Pitlochry and Royal Deeside 13th - 17th April RELAXING SCOTLAND

More Holidays...

Wye Valley and The Forest of Dean

25th - 29th May Fishers Hotel, 2015, Pitlochry St Hotel Pierre..............................£299 Hotel & Country Club 2nd-6th February Crieff Hydro

£339.00 NEWQUAY SPECIAL

£359.00

9th-13th February 2015, Fistral Beach Hotel ...........................£289

CYCLAMEN AND SNOWDROPS Isle of Wight, Shanklin

20th-23rd February 2015, Cheltenham Park Hotel .................£279

26th - 30th July Bourne Hall Hotel 2nd-6th March 2015, Mercury Hythe Imperial Hotel ..............£339 Shanklin

KENT (SINGLES SPECIAL)

European Escapes...£399.00 APRIL IN ITALY...LAKE GARDA

10th-19th April 2015, Liberty Hotel ..........................................£699

European Escapes

Carpet Gardens - Eastbourne

Yorkshire. Stay in a YHA hostel in the South-east and take a gentle family chauffeur punt down the river in Cambridge or experience the thrill of the rides at Chessington World of Adventures. The great thing about holidaying in the UK with your family is the wonderfully broad spread of activities on offer. Youngsters can run about, take part in planned activity programmes, go swimming or even take their bikes along when you’re having a staycation. They don’t have to endure tiresome flights, hanging around in airports or not liking the food abroad. Children can make themselves understood to everyone, and discover for themselves just how beautiful is their own country. Couples can quietly discover the real Downton Abbey – Highclere Castle in Hampshire – where fact meets fiction in fascinating English history. Our country has plenty of history, with stunning landmarks in Norwich spanning the Norman, Medieval, Georgian, Victorian and modern eras to Bath with its fascinating Roman baths. Visit York, where history leaps out at you around every corner. Travel to the capital and see the magnet of attractions that draw the constant crowds to its major art galleries, packed with masterpieces, the British Museum exhibiting the works of man from historic to modern times or the London Eye where the best views over the city are available to fascinate. A holiday in the UK can turn into the kind of voyage of discovery that used to be reserved for early travellers setting foot in ancient lands for the first time. The sense of wonder is on offer in cities, towns and in tiny hamlets boasting a village church and a history recorded in the Domesday Book.

SPRINGTIME ON THE RHINE 25th-30th 2015,... Rhine Hotel .............................................£559 Honfleur ... the gem AprilMay in Italy of Normandy Lake Garda

Our coastlines are among some of the world’s most stunning. Just walk along the rugged cliffs of Boscastle in Cornwall and you’ll be treading on rocks first laid down 300 million years ago. Mind you, it’s also got some of the best beaches, too, and the longest: 476 km of luscious coastline.

COACH HOLIDAYS

You can cycle through the wilds of Yorkshire or take a more sedate luxury barge along the Lancaster Canal – or just please yourself and do both!

2015 R EHOLIDAY E V EDEALS

10th - 19th April Liberty Hotel, Riva Del Garda

5th - 11th July Le M Hotel, Honfleur

£639.00 £10£699.00 off UK holidays and £20 off European and Irish holidays... Tel: Freephone 0800 9172862 TEL:or01254 830545 01254 830545 www.reevescoachholidays.com www.reevescoachholidays.com info@reevescoachholidays.com info@reevescoachholidays.com

When you book and pay your deposit before 24 December 2014 Visit www.reevescoachholidays.com for more information

Turkey and

The Great British Holiday is the one that you like the best. And it’s completely achievable, even with one eye on the weather.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Jane

McDonald IT’S amazing to think that it’s 17 years since Jane McDonald first captivated viewers in the BBC documentary-soap “The Cruise.”

The no-messing Yorkshire lass, a singer on the cruise ship, immediately fascinated everyone with her broad Yorkshire accent, warm heart and undoubtedly powerful singing voice. Right from the first sight of her, we knew she was a straightforward type of person, and she became the enduring image of that first series. The programme also provided a very useful springboard to success for Ms McDonald. But by then she had more than earned the right to it. Jane grew up in Wakefield. Her father, Peter, was a miner who doubled as a chimney sweep and Jane’s mother, Jean, and Jane’s grandmother ran a boarding house. Singing was what Jane was destined for, however, and for 12 years, she sang in the clubs throughout the North, honing her singing skills and learning to handle every kind of audience. She also entertained on cruise ships and in 1995 she met her future husband, Henrik, onboard The Century. They married in May, 1998, and in January, 1998, the BBC began broadcasting its fly-on-the-wall documentary. The programme was watched regularly by 14 million viewers and her wedding to Henrik, also televised, was watched by a large audience although the couple later divorced. Such was her instant fame that in July, 1998, Jane released her first, self-titled album which spent three weeks at No.1 and went platinum. In November the following year, she released her concert video, followed in 2000 by her second album, “Inspiration.” TV proved to the nation that here was a girl who could not only sing but who was funny and could present. She became a guest presenter on BBC’s “National Lottery” before being given her own show, “Star for a Night”, which helped launch the career of singer Joss Stone. Because of the way the public first got to know Jane, it’s always been difficult for her to shake off the image, as she says herself, of “‘er off the cruise ship.” But, in fact, not only has she carved out a very successful TV career but she has regularly toured all over the country, and all over the world including America, bringing her own brand of glamorous glitz and powerful, entrancing singing to her legions of fans. And she appreciates those fans. “To me, twenty fans are equally as important as twenty thousand fans,” she states. “When I look out, I don’t see a sea of people but individual faces.” She also has very loyal fans. “They travel around the country to see me,” she explains, “write to me, send me things and

are all so supportive. I always make sure when I do a concert or a TV show that I meet the fans afterwards. “There’s been a time when the signing session after the show has lasted longer than the show itself! But I wouldn’t miss that for the world. Without them …. well … I woudn’t know what to do.” Jane especially appreciates her fans since she became wellknown and started touring because of her tough years in the clubs. “When I sang before I’d have to compete with the bingo callers and people chatting at the bar,” she says. “I thought I’d gone deaf on this tour because the audience was so quiet. It took a while to realise they were quiet because they were listening to me.” As well as her touring, Jane became a regular presenter on ITV daytime programme “Loose Women” where her forthright opinions were always loved by viewers. She finally left the series last year after 10 years to concentrate on her music career and toured the country at the same time as her latest album, “Singer of Your Song”, came out. She’s made numerous guest appearances on mainstream TV - from “Ready, Steady Cook” to “All Star Family Fortunes” and “Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway”. She’s reviewed newspapers and had her own autobiography, “Follow Your Dreams” which was published in 2000. Her shows are unashamedly showbizzy and fun with eye-catching sets and costumes, and Jane belts out all the favourite standards to please her fans. Indeed, she always seems to enjoy herself as much as her audience does. She’s 51 now, divorced twice but happy finally with musician Eddie Rothe. They first dated at 18 when he was in the band Liquid Gold, but split up and Jane met him again on the set of “Loose Women”. Her fans are a cross-section of ages, including her own age-group. “I see the same three rows wherever I go,” she states. “I’ve seen them grow up and go through marriages and losses.” And it’s to these loyal fans that she dedicated last year’s album and tour. She’s just finished a stint in panto at Birmingham Hippodrome, in “Jack and the Beanstalk” playing The Enchantress, before going off on another series of sell-out appearances around the UK. But to all those fans who were first enchanted by her in “The Cruise” and who have remained keen to follow her career ever since, it’s plain that – while life may not have been all plain-sailing for Jane McDonald – she’s determined to continue putting a smile on other people’s faces.

For details of her latest appearances go to www.jane-mcdonald.com

For more articles like this one, please visit our brand new revamped website at www.50plusmagazine.co.uk ! www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Clitheroe's premier home furnishings and interior design shop announces the arrival of a beautiful range of chalk paints and informative courses to help you give your old furniture a new lease of life...

M eclectic selection of the best quality furnishings,

aison interiors, whose large showroom houses an

now stocks one of the oldest established chalk paint brands on the market â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Grand Illusions Vintage Paint. Vintage Paint, first produced in 1987, is a chalky, waterbased paint based on the Milk Paint of the 18th and 19th centuries. With a Nordic-French palette, it is chalky and matt in appeararirce and perfect for furniture, walls, floors and paint effects. It is self-priming and eco- friendly. Annette, Maison interiors' Grand Illusions Vintage Paint expert, is always on hand to offer advice and guidance on the best products and how to use them. In addition a practical course offering tuition is being offered once a month.

So whatever your requirements for the New Year, be it a new sofa, curtains, blinds or you feel you would like to acquire a new skill, Maison Interiors is certainly worth a trip into Clitheroe. Annette and Nick look forward to welcoming existing and new customers alike, helping them to achieve the home they deserve.

These workshops, run on the last Saturday of the month, provide the perfect opportunity to learn and practice painting skills and ageing techniques for small groups of six under the expert eye of a professional tutor. All of the equipment is provided including refreshments - simply bring your enthusiasm and away you go! Call in the shop for more information or ring a 01200 427007 to book a place. With Spring just around the corner and new, fresh fabrics on offer this is also the time to think about those new curtains and blinds you have been looking forward to all Winter. Housing a vast collection of beautiful fabrics from all the leading manufactures Maison's dedicated sewing team offer a make up service second to none. All soft furnishings are made 'in house' enabling the work to be completed to very exacting standards and include curtains, blinds, pelmets and headboards.

Call in or ring Maison Interiors... 1-6 York street, Clitheroe, BB7 2DL

Tel: 01200 427007

www.maisoninteriorsclitheroe.co.uk

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Soothing, stylish dining is on the menu with the help of Colours at B&Q

New Looks For Your Home This Spring IF there’s one thing the freshness of Spring brings it’s the chance to take a new look at our homes. 20

Winter-time tends to make us close the curtains, keep cosy and just enjoy being indoors, but Springtime is all about renewal – and our homes are at the front-line of these plans.

“tacked on” to your property. It’s important to give the appearance of flowing from the main house with the same flooring and décor. Be careful not to over-extend your property, though, at the expense of your garden. Most of us value that bit of green space especially in the Spring and, if you’ve got the time and the interest, your garden can become a pleasing feature of both your home and your lifestyle.

This may be the year, for example, when you finally add that muchneeded EXTENSION, SUNROOM or ORANGERIE to your home. Or you can make your living room and kitchen into a major open-plan space that could quickly become the heart of family living.

Converting your garage into an extra bedroom or a kitchen extension works well in many homes. Most of us don’t use our garages properly anyway. They can easily become cluttered and many are never employed for their prime use as somewhere to keep the car, so using what your property already has available makes sense.

You may want to add the light and space of a CONSERVATORY. The key here is to ensure that it doesn’t look

Changing your old FRONT-DOOR to a more modern design, preferably with glass to allow in plenty of light,

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HOME is a simple way to freshen up both the outside and the inside of your home. This can help update the HALLWAY which, after all, is the first opportunity you have to make an impression on any visitor. Bold wallpaper in bright colours on a white background is a great modernising option here. Hallways need light so look at your lighting and consider updating and add a mirror or two to maximise this. Before you start buying items or investing in paint and wallpaper, a simple way to brighten up your home and give it a fresh feel is to undertake some serious de-cluttering. Take an honest look at every room and see what you can take out to allow clearer surfaces, cleaner lines and a general feeling of space. It can be hard breaking the emotional link to many of the items we insist on hoarding but try to be objective about possessions. Most of us happily take the same items through each house move as though they had a right to be in the new place when, in fact, they’re of no real use to daily life.

on a feature wall in an otherwise plain room can transform your property. Steam-clean your KITCHEN area – you’ll be amazed how this lightens the place and update white electrical sockets with chrome. Kitchens are a central area in most homes these days so it’s worth investing in new cupboard doors or work surfaces for a more modern look.

Brighten up that home office space with a lively blind from Direct Blinds at www.directblinds.co.uk

Chuck out what you can’t give to the local charity shops. The same applies to dated pieces of furniture – especially those surplus to requirements. Some charities, like the British Heart Foundation and homeless charity Emmaus, sell second-hand furniture to boost their funds and are often glad to collect saleable items in good condition. Changing your home doesn’t need to be all about costly major changes, though. Going for a new COLOUR SCHEME or using WALLPAPER cleverly

Go for inexpensive plain tiles in toning colours to highlight smart units and one of the new textured floor coverings or rustic tiles. Even treating yourself to a set of brightly coloured kettle, toaster and coffee-maker can make your kitchen look chic. Your DINING ROOM or dining area needs to be a place where you enjoy spending time so, even if this is a small space, create something special here. Buy a lovely chandelier and choose cool light greys and other pleasing shades so that you can eat in a pretty area that makes the whole experience a pleasure. You don’t need to change everything in your BATHROOM – although if you’ve still got an avocado suite that might prove the exception! The most enduring

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HOME contemporary look for bathrooms these days is still a white suite. SHOWERS are quite futuristic now, as well as being very lifestyle-friendly, so changing your old shower is a practical improvement that won’t break the family budget. Going for natural colours on the walls, whether in tiles or emulsion, can be off-set by jewelcoloured towels and other accessories that can be picked up relatively cheaply. If you’re wanting a major change here and want to invest in your home, having a WET ROOM has become popular. Even smaller bathrooms can be adjusted with concealed shower trays that give the appearance of a wet room which can prove very practical. Get clever with STORAGE in the bathroom in particular. Ditch the laundry basket for a start – you really don’t need to keep laundry here. Replace it instead with a pop-up laundry caddy for each bedroom. Invest in an over-door towel rail, which is great for hanging up your damp towels. And go through all those lotions and potions that everyone has in their bathroom. They take up a lot of space and it’s a safe bet that you’ll never use most of them!

Turn your bedroom into a contemporary and relaxing place with Somers bedding from LUMA New BEDDING can alter a tired-looking bedroom, especially if you complement the shades in the rest of the décor. Jarring colours don’t work well here as this room is all about relaxing and winding down, so go for soothing neutrals with restrained colours. Now so many people work from home, many of us have a HOME OFFICE but the temptation is just to hive off a space and stick a fitted desk in there. Instead,

how about creating a work area that really does promote positive thinking with a fresh lick of white paint and a feature blind on the window with a splash of colour? Don’t forget the WALLS throughout your home, either. An eye-catching painting, much-loved family photo or just a print that you like can come to life with a beautiful frame that adds interest to your home, and helps promotes the feelgood factor of Spring.

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Quartz worktops brought down in price with a fabricated version, looks better in 40mm thickness and still a 25 year Manufacturers Warrenty. We would like to help make your dream kitchen become a reality. Visit our showroom to see a selection of our designs and get a free, no obligation kitchen design consultation.

Call: 01254 233678 www.ribblevalleykitchens.co.uk

Kitchen Showroom: Ribble Valley Kitchens, Unit 3 Cunliffe Court, Clayton Business Park, Clayton Le Moors, Accrington, BB5 5JG www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

ISOLATION EPIDEMIC CAN BE FIXED BUT WE NEED OUR COMMUNITY BACK Forget terrorism and a lack of savings, feeling lonely is keeping us awake at night according to neuroscientist and cognitive psychologist Dr Lynda Shaw who says isolation of the elderly and the vulnerable is becoming an epidemic and the only solution is trying to rebuild a sense of community that has been largely lost in the UK this century. “Facebook and online social networks may encourage ‘virtual’ communities but they are no replacement for a sense of community in the real world. We are turning more and more into a work and electronic gadget obsessed nation, who are losing our green spaces for children to play in and our local amenities, spending less time with our families and with different generations, and older people are losing their independence and dignity.” Shaw says: “The elderly, the bereaved, the disabled and individuals suffering from either mental or physical illness feel isolated which has a profound effect on their health and well-being and on us as a society. Whilst it is commonly acknowledged that isolation is rife, intervention is not forthcoming and we need to start combatting the growing problem by mixing age groups, religions and so on. We need school classes to visit care homes or go on a meals on wheels outing. We need different religious groups to socialise. We need to have more local events raising money for more local projects. “If we carry on with our day to day lives oblivious to those in need around us, particularly within our own community, we are losing key structures in society including trust, understanding, patience and open-mindedness. We are also losing our feeling of belonging. We are all going to need our community at some point so it is important to give whilst you can, be it something as simple as giving someone a lift somewhere, or knocking on someone’s door for a chat if they know you.” Shaw describes that whilst over the years a community often changes, sometimes for better but sometimes for the worse, we need to be able to adjust whilst falling back on good old fashioned values of welcoming new neighbours, helping someone in need or hosting a pub quiz for a community project.

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Scam Watch What’s your favourite prank to play? Whether it’s with unsuspecting friends or the grand-kids, we’ve probably all pulled – and been on the receiving end of – a trick or two in our time. But what about those tricks that aren’t quite as innocent – the ones that are designed to part you with your cash. Well, you’ll be glad we “made you look” as we go through some of the more common pranks you should be on the look-out for. Shoulder surfers: one of the most common ways for fraudsters to acquire your PIN is not through sophisticated techniques of card cloning, but simply by watching over your shoulder as you enter it. Always be wary of people standing behind you at cash points and when entering your PIN in a shop.

Phishing: have you won a lottery you didn’t enter? Had a

request from “your bank” to confirm your details? These are all phishing scams and you will end up losing money. Look out for the email originating from an unusual address, or failing to address you by name. Some can be more convincing and even look like they have been sent to you by friends. If in doubt, don’t give your details out.

Hang-up, no you hang-up: imagine it – you receive a call from

your bank telling you your account had been compromised and you need to act fast to save your cash! You’d do exactly as you were told right? But stop, this is a scam. Your bank would take its own steps to prevent fraud on your account, it would never require you to give out your full account number, password, PIN or hand over your card to a courier – ever. Even if you’re convinced you’re on the phone to your bank – never give out this information.

Payment protection insurance (PPI) refunds: you receive a text or call from someone claiming to be your bank, the Ministry of Justice, or a PPI company telling you that you’re owed money from mis-sold PPI. But, you must pay an administration fee before the refund can be processed. Don’t give away any money! If you have a PPI complaint, you can come to the ombudsman for free and save yourself giving your cash to claims managers unnecessarily. Online shopping scams: many of us are beating the queues

by shopping online these days – and the good news is that the majority of transactions are completed with no problem. But always be wary of a seller (or buyer) who asks you to complete transactions outside of the official payment channels like PayPal – as you may find you’re not protected if the item you’re buying, or the money for the goods you’ve sold, doesn’t show up.

We hope these tips help you get ahead of the game. But if you’ve lost out to a fraudster, don’t panic. Tell your bank what’s gone wrong but if you’re still not able to get things sorted out, the ombudsman may be able to help on 0300 123 9 123 or www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk.

TEN YEARS YOUNGER Same day tooth implants have given Viv Burton a new smile, revived confidence and a new youthful radiance

visit to the dentist has transformed the life of Lancashire businesswoman Viv Burton. But her dentist is no ordinary dentist — it is Douglas Lee Dental Associates a leading UK centre of excellence for the revolutionary ‘Fast and Fixed’ procedure for same-day implants. Because she was fearful and nervous of dental treatment, fashion store owner Viv hated going to the dentist and as a result had lost her lower teeth and had endured ill-fitting dentures for many years. Her upper teeth were crooked and her gums were also in poor shape — as was her confidence, which had gradually been eroded. “Because I was conscious of my teeth I had a habit

of putting my hand over my mouth. I was just so frightened of going to the dentist but Douglas Lee Dental Associates have changed that. I cannot praise them enough —I actually look forward to going to see them as it’s not like a dentists at all!” After reading about Douglas Lee and the ‘Fast and Fixed’ same day implant procedure Viv plucked up courage and booked an appointment. Other dentists had advised Vivienne that her top teeth would have to be removed and replaced with dentures, which she was desperate to avoid as she already disliked having the lower denture. The first thing implant expert Dougie Lee did was explain what would be necessary and that it would be pain free, which gave Viv much-needed confidence. She was also told her upper gums needed treatment to get them back in shape ready for a full upper arch implant procedure.

I CAN’T BELIEVE THE CONFIDENCE IT HAS GIVEN ME. I CAN HONESTLY SAY IT IS THE BEST INVESTMENT I HAVE EVER MADE! Since Douglas Lee Dental Associates adopted the ‘Fast and Fixed’ same day technique, which originated in Germany, they have become a flagship practice that is used to teach the procedure. “To become a teaching surgery for ‘Fast and Fixed’ is a real compliment — it is a massive boost to us and it gives us the chance to show other dentists what can be achieved with this technique,” says Dougie. Testament to their high level of skills, Douglas Lee Dental Associates were the first team in the UK to carry out a full set of upper and lower jaw implants within a day using the `Fast and Fixed’ technique. “No-one wants to lose their teeth but sometimes, despite everyone’s best efforts, teeth

fail and we previously had to resort to prosthetics like removable dentures. Dental implants are a wonderful improvement on them but until recently there had been no affordable or convenient way of using them to support a whole jaw, with ‘Fast and Fixed’, there is. “It used to be taught that when implants are planned to restore a full jaw the surgery is staged. Typically, separate appointments are needed for X-rays and CT scans, tooth extractions, bone grafts, implant placements, impression taking and finally fitting the new teeth — it can take over 12 months and cost a small fortune.” Preparation is key to the success and the team of dental nurses, cosmetic dentists, dental technicians and Dougie himself, all play their part on the day. Viv opted for full upper arch implants and on the day of her procedure she arrived at the Accrington surgery full of confidence as she had become familiar with the experienced and friendly

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BEFORE team during previous visits preparing for the surgery. “I had every faith in the team at Dougie’s,” recalls Viv, who has just returned from a business trip to London. “While I was away I told some people what I had done and they said my smile now looks amazing, they were very complimentary.” At his state-of-the-art surgery in Accrington Dougie has all the latest technology, equipment and skills required to carry out `Fast and Fixed’ same day implant tooth replacement. Patients scheduled for ‘Fast and Fixed’ treatment are settled into their private ensuite day room, complete with a day-bed and sofa. A Cone Beam CT scan is taken if not done so already. Generally, patients opt to be sedated so the procedure is anxiety free and absolutely painless.

AFTER With the patient completely relaxed, the damaged and infected teeth are removed as gently as possible. The implant sites need to be free of germs so the `Helbo’ revolutionary and completely painless laser, is used to eradicate over 99 per cent of all dangerous bacteria, with the help of a marker dye to identify problem areas. This allows implants to be placed immediately, usually six in the upper and four in the lower jaws. Typically in less than three hours the surgery is complete —the patient has felt no pain and more or less dozed through all of it. WE ARE VERY MUCH AHEAD OF THE GAME IN THIS. IT IS A MULTI-SKILLED PROCEDURE AND WE HAVE ALL THE RIGHT PROFESSIONALS ON OUR TEAM

The new teeth are then custom-made by Mark Roach, the practice’s on-site dental technician, while throughout the rest of the day, the patient relaxes in their day-suite, their every need attended to by personal care-nurses. By about 6pm the new teeth are ready and the happy patient can go home and enjoy their brand new smile! Besides minor swelling and bruising similar to that from simple tooth extractions, Dougie’s patients recover quickly and with few problems. “It is an extremely choreographed day where each professional plays their part,” explains Dougie. “We are very much ahead of the game in this. It is a multiskilled procedure and we have all the right professionals on our team.”

In Viv’s case, she was so delighted with the results in her upper jaw that only a week later she returned without a qualm to have full lower arch implants, enabling her to abandon dentures forever! “I can’t believe the confidence it has given me,” she said. “I can honestly say it is the best investment I have ever made!” When implants are carried out the experts at Douglas Lee take into account facial contours, so Viv’s bright new smile shines through making her look years younger: “I couldn’t be happier with the result!”

Douglas Lee A S S O C I A T E S Douglas Lee FINALIST Dental Associates 115 Whalley Road Accrington BB5 1BX 01254 237517 2014

hello@douglasleedental.co.uk www.douglasleedental.co.uk

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TWITTERING ON to keep Gordon Ramsay going for six months. Barely a sentence goes by without use of the procreation verb or adjective and coming out of that falsely constructed generous gob it sounds like fingernails down the side of a ship.

Keeping abreast of the times Celebrity culture is big business. To join this band of elite, dysfunctional people you need certain qualities. You should preferably be verbally challenged to the point where you cannot string a sentence together, tattoos over most inches of exposed flesh are a necessity, metal objects inserted in each bodily orifice add to the attraction, oh, and you must be vulgar. My 2015 award for vulgarity has to go to Leeds lass, I think, Josie Cunningham who hit the headlines after having a boob job on the NHS and then employing an agent of dubious origin to publicise the episode and subsequent miscreant meanderings of a sexual connotation which included offering to have an abortion so she could take part in Big Brother. Worrying isn’t it? In a “fly on the wall” TV documentary this fearsome looking specimen came over as a complete half wit whose antics are capable of extracting large amounts of money from today’s downmarket tabloid media. Her baseball capped agent was shown ferrying her around in a taxi to various photo shoots and locations in his quest to make a financial killing. He’s an oddball who has a grasp of how to manipulate social media so the femme fatale thinks she is rising to iconic proportions in the popularity stakes while, truth is, he is lining his own pocket. There’s enough collagen in her lips to keep a small trawler afloat in heavy seas and her so far untended teeth would mean most sane men would need an anaesthetic and several strong men to drag them under the mistletoe with her. Her dulcet Leeds accent makes a Billingsgate fish wife sound like an elocution expert and she uses enough profanities and vernacular 26

In a scene of blissful domesticity she was shown with her mother painting skirting boards at the family home and holding a tasteful discourse about how much they ******* love each other and anyone who doesn’t like it can go forth and multiply. Their application of the gloss paint was as thick as their awful accents and the result was very similar to their sordid way of life, runny, lacking in finesse and full of drips. Josie describes herself as a model, for what I’m not quite sure. She sets out to shock and invariably succeeds. If your son brought her home you’d leave it. she is surely an ambassador for the cause of celibacy if ever I saw one. In one of her outbursts, proudly sticking out her prosthetically enhanced chest, she said fat people did not deserve a gastric band on the NHS. She deserves two. One around her vile, over inflated gob and the other strategically placed and tightened about six inches lower.

Musical boob Now here is a much more tasteful story about the female form. A tattooed model who became a viral star by jiggling her breasts to Mozart has repeated the trick for Valentine's Day. Sara X Mills, whose unusual rendition of Mozart's Eine kleine Nachtmusik notched up 37m hits on YouTube, has this time performed to Beethoven's Fur Elise. The 27-year-old US model, who also jiggled her breasts to Jingle Bells for Christmas, plays Cupid with a bow and arrow for her latest video. She wrote: "Celebrate Valentine's Day with a silly new interpretation of this piece, Fur Elise. Much love and happiness to all!"

Stone me! A woman in the US has given birth to a baby weighing 14.1 pounds (6.4kg) - and he is already eating double the amount of an average-sized newborn. Maxxzandra Ford's son Avery is the heaviest ever baby to be born at St Joseph's Women's Hospital in Tampa, Florida. Avery, who was delivered in a natural birth lasting 18 hours, is one of the largest-ever born in the state. Ms Ford did not know she was pregnant until about 35 weeks in, according to media reports in the US. She told television stations WFLA and WFTS that after she rapidly gained weight last autumn, doctors confirmed she was pregnant. Ms Ford said she thought she was having twins at first. Debbie Moore, a registered nurse at the hospital, said they would "definitely not" have recommended a natural birth if they had known how much Avery weighed, the Tampa Bay Times reported. Avery's father, Allen Denton, told the newspaper: "I got a linebacker now instead of a fullback." Ms Ford, who already has a one-year-old son and a five-year-old daughter, said she "just melted" when she finally held Avery.

Weather you like it or not Perhaps it’s my age but female weather presenters are beginning to get to me. I’m old enough to remember Bert Ford and Michael Fish in their tweeds and sombre suits but today it seems an overwhelming number of presenters are women and more attention is supposed to be paid to the glamour than occluded fronts and deep depressions. Is it me or are the isobars and low pressure areas being replaced by in your face cleavages and painted smiles? Are the flickering eyelashes and mascara supposed to detract from the fact that it’s below freezing in the Trossachs and scything down in the Gorbals, or is it all a femme fatale front to bluff us that half the time they get it all wrong? And the scripting is getting on my cold front too. “As we go into the first half of the weekend”…is that Saturday? “The start of the new working week”…that’ll be Monday then?

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Bear necessity Passengers on the London Underground were stunned to see an eight foot polar bear climb aboard a train.

It was controlled by two puppeteers who spent weeks studying footage of real polar bears in the wild before spending five days rehearsing with the device.

The giant bear, created by Hollywood special effects experts FX, was spotted

The bear was created to promote new Sky Atlantic drama Fortitude. Sky Atlantic director Zai Bennett said: "To launch our new Arcticnoir thriller we wanted to bring a realistic polar bear to the streets of London to give people an up close experience of what it must be like to come face to face with one of the biggest, but uncredited stars of our new show."

All Welsh to me at Charing Cross tube station, as well as Hampstead Heath and the South Bank of the Thames. The huge puppet was made by a team of 19 prop specialists and made from more than 60 different materials including 90 sq ft of white fur.

Having recently moved to the Isle of Anglesey I’m having a bit of trouble with the language and local customs. The road habits are quaint. They don’t use one roundabout where two will do, so, consequently you think you’ve

finished your turn and you have to do it all over again and several times I’ve nearly cut across a grass verge in consternation but you get used to it.

Graham Smith

Dual language road signs slow you down too. Welsh bears no resemblance to any other language under the sun so more than once I have slowed to find the English version and drivers behind have cast aspersions on my parentage. But by and large I have to say that driving here is a pleasure. Far less impatient and road raged fuelled motorists is a delight and the volume of traffic is much less. I’m sure I’ll get used to the double roundabouts and double “ls” in this lovely part of the world.

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looking to celebrate that special anniversary? ring your favourite restaurant

looking to sort out that pension problem? ring the ombudsman 0300 123 9 123

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FOOD AND DRINK THE HAIRY DIETERS EAT FOR LIFE "We've cooked the recipes in our first book over and over, and they've become much loved standards in our kitchens, along with our other favourite dishes. We enjoy them so much that, like you, we wanted, more so now we've come up with some new ones that we hope you're going to like just as much."

ALL-IN-ONE SPICY PORK AND RICE 395 calories per portion Lean, tender pork with spicy rice and lots of veggies - what more could you want? This is a scrumptiously simple family supper with big flavours that fulfils all your needs. Only problem is stopping yourself eating too much of it! Heat the oil in a large, non-stick deep frying pan or sautĂŠ pan. Fry the onion wedges over a medium heat for 3 minutes until theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re softened and lightly browned, stirring regularly. Season the pork with salt and black pepper, then add it to the pan and stir-fry with the onion for 2 minutes until lightly browned. Add the chorizo, garlic, peppers and beans and stir-fry together for 2 minutes more. Sprinkle with the spices and stir in the rice, then pour over the stock and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring regularly, until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice and pork are both lovely and tender.

Serves 4 Prep: 15 minutes Cooking time: about 30 minutes 2 tsp olive oil 1 medium onion, sliced into thin wedges 500g pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1 cm slices 50g chorizo sausage, skinned and cut into 5mm slices 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1 red and 1 orange pepper, deseeded and sliced 100g green beans, trimmed and cut into short lengths 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander 1/2 tsp hot chilli powder 150g easy-cook long-grain rice 750ml chicken stock, made with 1 stock cube flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper.

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A BIG SOUP 157 calories per portion A big soup to make you smaller, this is a tasty wholesome lunch on a cold day. Add a tablespoon of half-fat crĂ¨me fraiche and a sprinkling of paprika for a guilt-free garnish that adds only 25 calories more per portion.

Your perfect recipe needs top quality ingredients...

Heat the oil in a large nonstick saucepan or a big flameporof casserole dish. Add the onion and garlic and fry gently for 5 minutes until softened but not coloured, stirring often. While the onion is frying, peel the carrots and slice them into rough 1.5cm chunks. Trim the green beans and cut them into pieces about 3cm long. Add the chorizo, paprika and carrots to the pan with the sliced onion and cook over a low heat for 2 minutes, stirring until the chorizo begins to release its fat. Season with salt and lots of black pepper. Tip the tomatoes into the same pan, add the stock and sugar, then turn the heat up to medium. Bring the liquid to the boil. Reduce the heat slightly and leave the soup to simmer for 12 minutes. Add the canned and fresh beans and the kale and bring it back to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10 minutes until all the vegetables are just tender, adding a little extra water if the soup is looking too thick. Season the soup with salt and black pepper and serve in deep bowls.

Serves 6 Prep: 15 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes 1 tbsp sunflower oil 1 medium onion, finely sliced 3 garlic cloves, finely sliced 3 medium carrots 150g green beans 75g chorizo sausage, skinned and cut into 1cm slices 1 tsp hot smoked paprika 1/2 tsp flaked sea salt, plus extra to season 400g can of chopped tomatoes 1.4 litres chicken stock, fresh or made with 1 stock cube 1 tsp caster sugar 400g can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 150g curly kale, thickly shredded freshly ground black pepper.

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Bury Market, winner of BBC Radio 4â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Food and Farming Awards (Best Food Market) really has it all. With over 350 stalls open every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday you will find our friendly traders sell everything you need for making delicious home-cooked meals.

Great quality produce at great value prices, brought fresh to market every day!

Bury Market Tel: 0161 253 6520

: @BuryMarket

Email: burymarkets@bury.gov.uk Web: www.burymarket.com

FOOD AND DRINK

THAI BEEF SALAD 239 calories per person (if serving 2); 159 calories per portion (if serving 3) The Kingy and I both love this salad. It’s full of fresh, soaring flavours and plenty of heat, but if you don’t like your food too spicy, leave out the chilli or deseed it before slicing. Make sure you wash your hands really well after handling the chilli! You can make this with chicken or fish too. Trim off any visible fat from the steak and season it with salt and lots of freshly ground black pepper. Heat the oil in a small nonstick frying pan and fry the steak over a high heat for 11/2 minutes on each side until nicely browned. Leave it to rest on a board while you prepare the veg. Use a vegetable peeler to peel the carrots into thin ribbons, turning regularly. Cut the cucumber in half lengthways and scoop out the seeds with a teaspoon, then cut the cucumber into slices of about 5mm. Finely slice the shallot. Trim the pepper at both ends and cut it into thin strips. Put all the vegetables in a bowl, then strip the leaves off the herbs, tearing any large leaves in half, and scatter them on top.

To make the dressing, put all the ingredients in a small blow and whisk until well combined. Cut the steak into slices about 4mm thick and add them to the salad. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss lightly and serve.

Serves 2-3 Prep: 20 minutes Cooking time: 3 minutes 1 lean sirloin or rump steak (1.5cm thick) 1 tsp sunflower oil 2 medium carrots, peeled 1/2 small cucumber 1 long shallot or 2 small shallots, trimmed 1 small red pepper, deseeded 25g bunch of fresh coriander 25g bunch of fresh mint flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper Dressing 1 tbsp nam pla (Thai fish sauce) 1 tbsp light brown soft sugar 1 tbsp fresh lime juice 1 red or green bird’s eye chilli, trimmed and very finely sliced.

FIVE-MINUTE PIZZA 250 calories per pizza Our super-quick pizza is based on a tortilla wrap instead of pizza dough, which makes it lower in calories and fast to prepare - a pizz-a genius! We like to add some pitted olives to our pizza before grilling but don't forget that every 15 grams of olives ups the calorie count by 15. Preheat the grill to its hottest setting. Place the tortilla on a baking sheet and spread with the passata, leaving a 2cm gap around the edge. Tear the ham into strips and arrange them on top of the tortilla. Sprinkle with the oregano and then the grated Cheddar. Season with black pepper. Toss the rocket or salad leaves with olive oil and a dribble of balsamic vinegar if you like. Put to one side. Place the pizza under the grill and cook for about 11/2 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the edges of the pizza are beginning to brown. Watch carefully so it doesn't burn! Slide the pizza on to a board or a warmed plate, top with the salad and serve immediately.

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FRESH FRUIT TRIFLES 239 calories per portion These stunning little puds are a doddle to make and feel like a real treat. No one will guess that they contain under 250 calories per portion - a sensation on the lips but a mere trifle on the hips. You’ll need 6 glass dessert dishes for this; each one needs to hold about 250ml. You can also make the trifle in a large bowl, but it will take a little longer to set. Break the sponge fingers in half and place them in the base of each dish. Drizzle with a little sherry if you like. Dissolve the jelly crystals in 300ml just-boiled water in a large jug according to the packet instructions. As soon as they have dissolved, stir in the 600ml of cold water. Hull the strawberries and cut them in half or into quarters if they are very large. Scatter the strawberries over the sponge fingers. Pour the jelly slowly over the broken sponge fingers and strawberries until they are evenly covered. Cover the dishes with cling film and chill in the fridge for 3-4 hours or until the jellies are set. Take the dishes out of the fridge and remove the cling film. Spoon the custard on top of each jelly without taking it right to the sides. Put the cream in a bowl and whisk with electric beaters until soft peaks form. Try not to overwhip the cream - it’s ready when it looks like soft, billowing clouds. Add a large spoonful of the whipped cream to each trifle, placing it on top of the custard. Decorate the trifles with fresh raspberries, blueberries and a few fresh mint leaves. These keep well in the fridge so you can make them up to 2 days before serving ideal if you’re planning a party.

Makes 1 pizza (serves 1) Prep: 31/2 minutes Cooking time: 11/2 minutes 1 large flour tortilla wrap 3 tbsp passata with basil 20g wafer-thin ham (a couple of slices) 2 good pinches of dried oregano 20g half-fat Cheddar cheese, finely grated small handful of rocket or baby salad leaves 1/2 tsp extra virgin olive oil 1/2 tsp good balsamic vinegar (optional) olives in brine (optional) freshly ground black pepper.

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Serves 6 Prep: 15 minutes plus setting time 12 sponge fingers (about 75g) 3 tbsp sweet sherry (optional) 2 x sachets (23g) of raspberry flavour sugar-free jelly crystals 300ml just-boiled water 600ml cold water 200g fresh strawberries 300ml low-fat ready-made custard, preferably fresh 125ml double cream 100g fresh raspberries 100g fresh blueberries fresh mint leaves to decorate.

EATING OUT

THE 3 MILLSTONES INN The 3 Millstones is a grade II listed building and is one of the oldest in the village. Situated in the picturesque village of West Bradford we are easy to find being only minutes away from Clitheroe and the A59. The restaurant has a unique, warm and welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. Chef Matthew works hard to give the customer the best food at the best prices. Matthew has been working as a chef for 12 years and has already run a successful restaurant ‘Restaurant Ginger at the Forest Inn, Fence Lancashire’. He works along side his wife who is also experienced in the industry and heads the front of house team. They pride themselves on giving the best food and service possible by sourcing local ingredients from local suppliers and having a great team of experienced staff behind them. Along with the extensive seasonal a la carte menu we also offer daily specials, or why not try our ‘tea time treats’ and ‘ lunch for less menu’. 2 courses from £10.50, 3 courses from £13.99 served Wednesday - Saturday 12-2pm and Wednesday - Friday 6-7pm. Our popular Sunday lunch is served between noon and 5pm with the a la carte menu being served from 3pm.

Bookings are now being taken for Mother’s Day and Easter Weekend. Mother’s Day 3 course menu £26 Children under 12 £13 Served 12noon until 7pm. Easter Weekend Good Friday 3 courses £13.99 2 courses £10.50 Served 6-9pm

Easter Sunday 12-7pm 3 course £22 2 course £18.50, a la carte menu and specials of the day available between 4pm and 7pm.

Chefs Recipe Roasted Goosnargh chicken breast with celeriac, parsnips and carrots Glazed with honey One chicken breast about 200g in weight skinless Three carrots Three parsnips One small size celeriac head 1 tablespoon of honey 1 tablespoon of olive oil 1 tablespoon of butter. First preheat fan assisted oven to 200 Celsius. Then peel all your vegetables. Dice all the vegetables quite large – all the same size so will all cook equally Next you need to find a medium size frying pan with metal handle so the pan can go into the oven. First you need to season your chicken breast with salt and pepper. Add the olive oil to your pan, When you see a little smoke very carefully place the chicken breasts in the pan presentation side down, always put the chicken in the pan away from you to avoid the hot oil splashing. When golden brown turn over with tongs onto the opposite side then very carefully place all the root vegetables in the pan with the chicken. Carefully turn the chicken over to the opposite side, roll all the vegetables so they are lightly coloured, place into your preheated oven, after five minutes take the pan out the oven and stir all the

The 3 Millstone Inn opening service times as follows: Mon-Tues CLOSED. Wed, Thurs, Fri Lunch 12noon - 2pm, Dinner 6pm-9pm. Sat, Lunch 12noon - 2pm, Dinner 6.30pm - 9pm. Sun Lunch 12noon - 5pm.

veg then place back in the oven for a further seven minutes. Repeat this process once more and then your chicken should be cooked and tender once your chicken is cooked remove from the pan then leave chicken on the side. Place the pan on a medium heat add the honey and butter until glazed then gently stir into the vegetables. Turn off the gas place the vegetables in the middle of the plate with the chicken on top and you are ready to dine. Recipe supplied by Chef Matthew - The 3 Millstones Inn.

TEL: 01200 443 339 WWW.3MILLSTONES.CO.UK 3 MILLSTONES INN WADDINGTON ROAD WEST BRADFORD

BB7 4SX.

EATING OUT

THE DOG AND OTTER COUNTRY PUB AND RESTAURANT Situated on the outskirts of the lovely town of Great Harwood outside Blackburn on the border of the Ribble Valley. Whether you are looking for a light lunch, a traditional Sunday dinner, a romantic evening meal, a lunchtime business meal or to celebrate a special occasion, you will always receive a warm welcome at The Dog and Otter. We strive to offer the best quality selection of Marston’s cask ales along with regular guest Ales and a brand new wine menu. For our diners, we have a traditional menu of pub classics along with our fantastic new menu offering a wide range of great quality meals. The Dog and Otter offers all customers a warm welcome, a quality pint and a hearty meal.

CURRY NIGHT Free Drink

GRILLS 2 for 1

with any curry

Monday 5pm onwards

Wednesday 5pm onwards

SUNDAY LUNCH from £9.50

add a dessert for £2 Sunday 12-5pm

2 MAIN MEALS AND A BOTTLE OF WINE FOR

£20

Thursday 5pm onwards

THE DOG AND OTTER CLIFFE LANE GREAT HARWOOD TEL: 01254 888161 www.thedogandotter.com

Food Served: Lunch: Dinner: Bank Holidays:

Monday - Saturday 12 noon - 5pm Sunday 12 noon - 8pm Monday - Saturday 5pm- 9pm Sunday 12 noon - 8pm 12 noon - 9pm.

BLACKBURN Lancashire BB6 7PG e: enquiries@thedogandotter.com

THE RANKEN ARMS QUEEN STREET | HODDLESDEN | BB3 3LY

www.therankenarmsdarwen.com | info@therankenarmsdarwen@gmail.com | 01254 702814 Set in the heart of Hoddlesden the Ranken Arms has recently undergone major refurbishment. The pub is a traditional country Inn but with a modern and vibrant interior.

Food Served

The Ranken Arms has recently been taken over by Landlord Nick and Head Chef Jamie, both of whom have extensive knowledge and experience of the hospitality industry having worked in the industry all their careers.

sunday roast

The food on offer is all home-made using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Cooked fresh to order. The menu caters for all tastes, whether you are after a full meal or a light bite we can accommodate you. There is a pub classic section (also available as a half portion for £4.95) featuring beer battered cod and hand cut chips, Rankens steak and ale pie, hand cut chips & seasonal vegetables and we also have ciabattas, light bites, sandwiches, grills, starters and desserts to choose from.

Seven Days a week 12.00 - 8.00

one course £ 8.95 two courses £10.95 three courses £12.95

Childrens menu available Afternoon teas available on request

booking is essential for larger parties Full menu available to download off website.

+ 50PLUS

FREE

EVENT Saturday

TO VI

SIT

27th JUNE 2015 10am - 3.30pm

50+ North West is one of the largest exhibitions for the over 50`s in the UK and is an ideal platform for you to meet and interact with this important sector of the population. We offer exhibitors a truly cost-effective means of doing business with, collecting contacts in, and reaching out to this large and growing group. If your organisation has customers who are 50+, then you need to be at 50+ North West! WHY EXHIBIT? • The Over 50`s control 80% of the UK`s wealth • No other event gives such targeted access to this prosperous sector • Largely a recession proof market • Exhibitors play a major part in the Event offering visitors a huge range of products, services and information

Some of the companies already booked to exhibit include: Haydock Park Racecourse Age UK SKILS. Wigan Harrison Holidays WLCT (Wigan Council) Argus Fire & Security 50 Plus Magazine

We will be making this a family day out to remember, it is free for visitors to come, so I hope you will be a part of it.

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DON`T MISS THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY, BOOK YOUR STAND TODAY.

ATTAIN Marketing

Phone 0333

Costco, Haydock

006 5822

email: enquiries@kamaevents.co.uk www.50plusnorthwest.co.uk

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will send you home with enough new ideas to last you a lifetime. M

It is Free To Visit so bring a friend with youDATING and open your mind to all theFASHION endless possibilities open to FUN SPEED SHOW you!! This is a big family event and so families including children are most welcome, as there will be plenty of entertainmentFACE on offer. PAINTING BEAUTICIAN CM

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Activities planned include: Sponsored by l Fashion Shows l Face Painting l Beauticians Sponsored by Haydock Racecourse, Newton-le-willows, l Fun Speed Dating Seminars Merseyside, WA12l0HQ and so much more. CM

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th ✚ FUN SPEED DATING ✚ FASHION SHOW YOUR PLACE ✚ FACEBOOK PAINTING ✚ BEAUTICIAN A Family Day Out Full name........................................................................ Email........................................ ............................... Address........................................................................................................................ ........................................ Sponsored byMORE... ✚ SEMINARS ✚ SO MUCH To Remember M

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✚ FASHION SHOW ✚ FACE PAINTING ✚ BEAUTICIAN Please return your form to: ✚ SEMINARS SO MUCH MORE... Kama Events, 685 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, Wigan, WN5✚8AQ CM

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Kama Events, 685 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, Wigan, WN5 8AQ your form to: enquiries@kamaevents.co.uk www.50plusnorthwest.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT

BRITAIN’S BIGGEST PLAYWRITING COMPETITION OPEN FOR ENTRIES EXHIBITION OF NEW PHOTOGRAPHS OF BRITISH PLAYWRIGHTS COMMISSIONED TO MARK 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PRIZE 2013 BRUNTWOOD PRIZE WINNER PREMIERES AT ROYAL EXCHANGE, MANCHESTER The 2015 Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting opens its 10th anniversary competition today. Writers of all levels of experience are invited to enter plays, which must be original, unperformed and unproduced. The winner will receive a prize of £16,000 and a full production of their play at the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester. The competition is a unique partnership between the Royal Exchange Theatre and property company Bruntwood. To mark the 10th anniversary of the Prize, Bruntwood and the Royal Exchange Theatre have commissioned the acclaimed photographer Simon Annand to photograph a selection of British playwrights in the places where they work and find inspiration. The resulting photographs will be exhibited at the Royal Exchange Theatre from April 2015. The 2013 Bruntwood Prize was won by Anna Jordan’s play YEN, which will receive its world premiere at the Royal Exchange from 18th February 2015. Also premiering at the Royal Exchange later this year will be THE ROLLING STONE by Chris Urch, which was a winner of a Judges Award at the 2013 Bruntwood Prize. The production will be directed by award-winning director Ellen McDougall. Sarah Frankcom, Bruntwood Prize judge, and Artistic Director of the Royal Exchange, said: “I really want to discover a play or a writer that is such a game changer it will redefine what a play can be and how it can connect with audiences. We’re excited about producing two Bruntwood winners at the Royal Exchange this year. I can’t wait to see what we find this time around.” Michael Oglesby, Bruntwood Prize judge, and Founder and Chair of Bruntwood, said “What we want is writers who think big and aren’t afraid to take on challenging subjects or write 36

for large spaces. Since we founded the Bruntwood Prize ten years ago it has grown into a prize of major significance. The writers who have won previously have gone on to great things and I hope we find more great talent this year.”

MARCH - NOVEMBER 2015 THE KING'S SPEECH 30th March to 4th April At an office in Harley Street, London, Bertie and his wife Elizabeth (the future much-loved Queen Mother) are meeting maverick Australian speech therapist and failed actor, Lionel Logue. Starring Jason Donovan as Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue in a powerful dramatic role. Manchester Opera House, Quay Street Manchester. M3 3HP. Booking Number - 0844 871 7660.

The judging panel for this year’s prize will be chaired by Nicholas Hytner, former Artistic Director of the National Theatre. The full judging panel is as follows: • Nicholas Hytner (former Artistic Director, National Theatre) • Sarah Frankcom (Artistic Director, Royal Exchange Theatre) • Vivienne Franzmann (playwright and former Bruntwood winner) • Ramin Gray (Artistic Director, Actors Touring Company) • Bryony Lavery (playwright) • Michael Oglesby CBE (Chairman, Bruntwood) • Miranda Sawyer (writer and broadcaster) • Meera Syal CBE (actor and writer). The Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting is open to writers in the UK and Ireland aged 16 and over. Entries can be submitted online at www.writeaplay.co.uk The closing date is 6pm on 5th June 2015. The Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting is Britain’s biggest playwriting competition. This round will mark the 10th anniversary of the Prize, which has supported the development and productions of a significant number of playwrights since its inception in 2005. 17 playwrights have been awarded a total of £160,000. There have been thirteen critically acclaimed productions of winning entries, as well as a number of productions of plays elsewhere that were identified through the judging process. Over 9,000 entries have been generated from across the United Kingdom and winning playwrights have gone on to have work produced at the Royal Court Theatre, Almeida Theatre, on Broadway and in the West End. It is a significant investment in playwrights and support for new work on stage. More information about the Prize can be found at www.writeaplay.co.uk/about.

An Evening with Julian Lloyd Webber

11th April Doors Open: 6.45pm Start Time: 7.30pm Tickets: £20 in advance, £24 on the door A brilliant evening of stories and music as Julian Lloyd Webber takes you through a historical and musical journey of his life and career showing clips of him performing and chatting with of many of the artists he’s worked with during his illustrious career such as, Nigel Kennedy, Elton John, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Yehudi Menuhin, Katherine Jenkins and many others. All of this to the backbone of music as he’s joined by his wife and fellow cellist Jiaxin Lloyd Webber and pianist Pam Chowhan to perform works by Andrew LW, Rachmaninov, Faure, Bach and many others. A rare treat to step behind the curtain and get a true insight into one of the most important British musicians of the last 50 years. For this special performance, Julian is inviting fellow cellists to bring along their own cello to perform on stage with the maestro himself. This will give audience members* a once in a lifetime opportunity to have a mini masterclass with one of the most successful British musicians of the last 50 years. The Muni Theatre, Albert Road, Colne, Lancashire, BB8 0AE. BOX OFFICE 01282 661234.

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THE KINGS SPEECH - 30th March - 4th April

FRANKIEVALLI &the four seasons - 26th June

‘Botany Bay offers a unique shopping experience with 5 floors of shopping and leisure located inside Canal Mill,an old cotton mill.

There is so much to see with our Food hall, fashion and footwear, furniture and interiors and much more. Open 7 days a week 9am – 5.30pm.’

Bury Market has a well deserved reputation for friendly service, fantastic produce and great value.

FREDDIE STARR Saturday 18 April 2015 7.30pm - Tickets: £20 Freddie Starr (born Frederick Leslie Fowell, 9 January 1943 is an English comedian, impressionist, singer and actor. Starr was the lead singer of Merseybeat pop group The Midniters during the early 1960s, and came to prominence in the early 1970s after appearing on Opportunity Knocks and the Royal Variety Performance. Empire Theatre, Aqueduct Road Ewood, Blackburn BB2 4HT Booking office 01254 685500

Located off J2 of the M66 and with over 350 stalls open every Full Market Day it’s easy to find and even easier to enjoy!

MRS BROWN'S BOYS: HOW NOW MRS BROWN COW

7th to 11th April The award-winning Mrs Brown's Boys return to Manchester next year with their brand new tour How Now Mrs Brown Cow. If you haven’t experienced Mrs Brown’s Boys live, this new tour is set to be one of the hottest tickets for 2015 and is not to be missed. BOOK YOUR TICKETS FOR THIS SHOW CALL 0844 854 1355 Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1AR

DAVE SPIKEY

30th April Brace yourself for a hearty comic brawling from the hands of one of the UK’s finest laugh-inducing talents. Dave Spikey presents a knockout new show this spring – “Punchlines”. King George's Hall. Northgate. Blackburn. BB2 1AA. CALL 0844 847 2277

May Day Steamings at Bolton Steam Museum

Sunday, 3rd May; Monday 4th May. 10.00am - 4.00pm Our volunteers have rescued and restored 27 old stationary steam engines, which once powered the cotton mills and woollen mills of Lancashire and Yorkshire. Most will be running in steam on these 2 days only.

Spring Bank Holiday Steamings at Bolton Steam Museum

Sunday 24th May, Monday 25th May. 10.00am - 4.00pm Our volunteers have rescued and restored

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27 old stationary steam engines, which once powered the cotton mills and woollen mills of Lancashire and Yorkshire. Most will be running in steam on these 2 days only. Admission charge: Free. Bolton Steam Museum, Mornington Road, off Chorley Old Road, Bolton BL1 4EU Website: www.nmes.org Contact Tel. 01204 846490

Bury Town Centre is also home to the Fusilier Museum, East Lancashire Railway, Bury Transport Museum and Bury Art Gallery.

LORD OFTHE DANCE: DANGEROUS GAME

Tuesday 5th to Sunday 10th May With all the visceral prevision and thrills of the original, Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games features new staging, new costumes and choreography. With 40 of the world's most outstanding performers directed by Michael Flatley. Manchester Opera House, Quay Street Manchester. M3 3HP. Booking Number 0844 871 7660.

CHRIS DE BURGH & BAND 8th May Chris de Burgh is an Irish/British singersongwriter and instrumentalist. He is most famous for his 1986 love song 'Lady In Red', which reached number one in several countries. De Burgh has sold over 45 million albums worldwide. His emotional songs combine melody and rhythm with storytelling. Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, Liverpool, L1 9BP. Bookings Number - 0844 854 1355. BLACKBURN CLASSICS -THE HALLÉ

16th May Jamie Phillips, the Hallé's youngest ever Assistant Conductor, takes to the podium for Rachmaninov's magnificent Second Symphony. King George's Hall. Northgate. Blackburn. BB2 1AA. CALL 0844 847 2277

THE MERSEY BEATLES

23rd May Resident at the world famous Cavern Club The Mersey Beatles recreate the sights and sounds of the Beatles with a stunning accurate tribute show, the closest you can get to the excitement of seeing The Beatles in concert. The stage presence and sheer fun of the Fab Four is captured in every performance. Epstein Theatre, Hanover House, 85 Hanover Street, Liverpool, L1 3DZ Booking Number and General Enquires 0871 246 5868

Bury Market Hall: Open every day except Sunday Full Markets Open: Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays “Winner National Coach Tourism Awards” Coach Friendly Shopping Destination of the Year “Winner NABMA’s” Best Market Attraction

Bury Market Management: Tel: 0161 253 6520 Email: burymarkets@bury.gov.uk Web: www.burymarket.com : @BuryMarket

OUT & ABOUT

BEACH BOYS - 27th May Darwen Live 2015 24th to 25th May Now in it’s 16th year, Darwen Live has become a popular event on the local music festival circuit. 24th to 25th May 2015. This free festival is run over two days on an outdoor stage in the centre of Darwen. There is always something for everyone & music from every genre. The event showcases local talent, as well as better known, headline acts. As well as the main stage, the festival is supported by a host of other venues such as Darwen Library Theatre & local pubs staging live music events. Darwen Market Square, Darwen Lancashire BB3 3BU. Tel: 01254 688040 BRYAN FERRY Tuesday 26th May Upbeat and punky in the 70s, heartfelt and poppy in the 80s, his smooth and distinctive vocal sound made Roxy Music a worldwide success. Now solo, Ferry's flair for touching the romantic in everyone (now replete with jazz tinged influences) is as powerful as ever. Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, Liverpool, L1 9BP. Bookings Number - 0844 854 1355. THE BEACH BOYS 27th May The Beach Boys continue to create and perform with the same bold imagination and style that marked their explosive debut over 50 years ago. The band has birthed a torrent of hit singles and sold albums by the tens of millions. O2 Apollo Theatre, Stockport Road, Ardwick Green, Manchester, M12 6AP. Call 0844 847 2277 ONE NIGHT OF QUEEN 31st May WIf you are feeling Under Pressure to choose a show that you and the Love Of Your Life or Your Best Friend will enjoy then this is a A Kind Of Magic! Fresh from their second tour of the USA Gary Mullen and 'The Works' return with a stunning live concert featuring fantastic staging and lighting effects. Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JE Booking Number - 0844 871 7660. JOHNNY CASH REVISITED

Friday 5 June 7.30pm - Tickets: £15 Johnny Cash Revisited is a semi-biographical show illustrating the transition of Johnny Cash from being a young gospel singer from Dyess, Arkansas, into the legendary recording artist known as 'The Man In Black'.

Darcy Oake - 18th September Rick McKay and special guest Jodie McKay pay tribute to Johnny Cash and June Carter with their band Starkville City to bring you a two hour uplifting show full of Country Music and Rockabilly classics! 'The attention to detail is striking. I would recommend Johnny Cash Revisited to anyone from die hard old Johnny Cash fans to newcomers who want to hear the real deal' (Dave Roe: Bassist with Johnny Cash & The Tennessee Three 1991-2003). Empire Theatre, Aqueduct Road Ewood, Blackburn BB2 4HT See more info at johnnycashrevisited.com Booking office 01254 685500

JOE LONGTHORNE

Saturday 6 June 7.30pm - Tickets: £20 Joe Longthorne is recognised as one of the most dynamic entertainers in British show business. His impressions have an uncanny ability for accuracy and his impressive voice will take you on a kaleidoscope journey of music and fun. Perhaps best known for his impersonation of Shirley Bassey, who has commented: "Joe can do me better than I can do myself!" During his career, Joe has received gold and platinum discs for his albums, enjoyed sell-out concerts at the Royal Albert Hall, as well as touring Australia several times. Empire Theatre, Aqueduct Road Ewood, Blackburn BB2 4HT Booking office 01254 685500

THE TIGER WHO CAMETOTEA 9th to 14th June Following a smash-hit West End season, the tea-guzzling tiger is back on the road in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem...,expect to be surprised! Running time: approx 55 minutes (no interval). Epstein Theatre, Hanover House, 85 Hanover Street, Liverpool, L1 3DZ Booking Number and General Enquires 0871 246 5868 FLEETWOOD MAC

12th June & 1st July Following a record sell out tour in 2013, rock legends Fleetwood Mac are set to return to the Manchester in 2015 with their On With The Show Tour. All five stars will be performing, including Christine McVie, who returns to the band following a 16 year absence. Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1AR Bookings 0844 847 2277.

gladys knight - 29th June SING-A-LONG-A FROZEN 13th June Disney's Frozen gets the full Sing-along-a treatment! Who hasn't been singing Let It Go and wanting to dress up as Elsa! Join in the full interactive experience with a screening of the film with lyrics on screen and sing along with Elsa and Anna. Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JE Booking Number - 0844 871 7660.

THE MOODY BLUES

16th June Their remarkable music has enthralled generations of fans since the 1960's and their recorded legacy contains some of the most important and ground breaking work in the history of popular music, having generated over 55 million sales throughout the world. O2 Apollo Theatre, Stockport Road, Ardwick Green, Manchester, M12 6AP. Call 0844 854 1355

FRANKIE VALLI &THE FOUR SEASONS 26th June Formed in New Jersey in 1955 by falsetto lead singer Frankie Valli, the group scored their first number one in the summer of 1962 with Sherr. One of the few Stateside groups whose reign of hits was uninterrupted by The Beatles and the British Invasion. Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1AR Bookings 0844 854 1355. GLADYS KNIGHT 29th June Empress of Soul and seven time Grammy winner, Gladys Knight announces a seven date UK tour in 2015, her first in six years. Performing all her classic hits – ‘Midnight Train To Georgia', ‘Help Me Make It Through The Night',‘Licence To Kill and more. O2 Apollo Theatre, Stockport Road, Ardwick Green, Manchester, M12 6AP. Call 0844 854 1355 Ballroom Evening with Sanderson Dance & Fitness Centre

July 4 & 25 Join instructors from Sanderson Dance & Fitness Centre for a fabulous evening of Ballroom, Sequence and Latin American dancing. There is a bar and a relaxed cabaret atmosphere and early booking is advised! The Muni Theatre, Albert Road, Colne, Lancashire, BB8 0AE. BOX OFFICE01282 661234.

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Blackburn Canal Festival 2015 18th & 19th July The third Blackburn Canal Festival 2015 will take place on 18th & 19th July, at Eanam Wharf, Blackburn. The family fun weekend celebrating the history of the Leeds Liverpool Canal and the importance that Eanam Wharf played in the development of Blackburn will be packed with; tradition and modern dance, live and recorded music, drama performances, face painting, bouncy castle, stalls selling cakes sweets etc. food hawkers, canal boat trips, tradition and artisan market stalls and much much more. New for 2015 will be a Clasical Concert from 6.30pm on Saturday evening. If you would like to help volunteer at this year’s event or if you are a boater a would like to come along and join our flotilla then please go to the boat owners page or contact the festival office on 01254 699221 or email blackburncanalfestival@dapa.info Eanam Wharf, Blackburn Lancashire BB1 5BY. Tel: 01254 699221. ROY CHUBBY BROWN 8th August Roy Chubby Brown returns with his bluest show yet! He’s still rude, he’s still crude and this time he’s turning headlines into punch lines as his rip-roaring brand of banter continues to burst bellies across the country. Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JE Booking Number - 0844 871 7660.

Southport Flower Show 20th - 23rd August Located in Victoria Park and within easy walking distance of the town centre, Southport Flower Show takes place from 20th - 23rd August 2015. Attracting around 70,000 visitors, the event will feature stunning show gardens, the finest flower and vegetable displays, specialist foods and books, celebrity guests and much more. Southport Flower Show, the UK’s largest independent flower show and a great day out. Victoria Park, Rotten Row Southport, Merseyside PR8 2BZ Tel: 01704 547147

The Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival 2015

28th t0 31st August August 2015 sees Pendle Leisure Trust celebrating a mighty 26 years of Rhythm and Blues in Colne! With more than 600 artistes performing at 10 official venues over four days, Colne’s annual Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival is now a firm favourite on the festival calendar as THE place to be over the Bank Holiday weekend.

DARCY OAKE 18th September Canadian magician Darcy Oake will be heading out on his first ever UK tour with a series of thrilling live shows. Emerging in the world of illusion as a new generation of contemporary

mysticism he has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting performers in magic right now. O2 Apollo Theatre, Stockport Road, Ardwick Green, Manchester, M12 6AP. Call 0844 854 1355

Joe McElderry – EvolutionTour 2015 10th October Joe McElderry is the X Factor golden boy with the 24-carat voice and the diamond personality which has made him one of the most loved young singers in the country. Since storming to victory in the 2009 X Factor final, Joe has been the sweet-singing hero and heartthrob of hundreds of thousands of fans aged from five to 95. Great entertainment for all the family – please join us! £17 Adult, £15 Conc, £20 on the door The Muni Theatre, Albert Road, Colne, Lancashire, BB8 0AE. BOX OFFICE01282 661234.

STEWART FRANCIS

12th November The star of ‘Mock The Week’, ‘Michael McIntyre’s Roadshow’ and ‘Live At The Apollo’, embarks on a brand new stand up tour with a fantastic and hilarious new show! King George's Hall. Northgate. Blackburn. BB2 1AA. CALL 0844 847 2277

EAT OUT FOR

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NAME: ADDRESS: EMAIL: MOB No: *Terms & Conditions: 1. One voucher per booking, per table. 2. Booking is essential. *Termsand & Conditions: 3. Voucher must be quoted shown when booking the table. 1.4.One per booking, 2. Booking is essential. 3. Voucher must be No voucher change will be given.per 5. table. This voucher cannot be used in conjunction quoted and shown when booking the table. 4. No change will be given. 5. This with any other offers. 6. This voucher is not transferable. 7. The value of voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. 6. This voucher is this voucher is £50 and can be redeemed against food and drink. 8 Voucher not transferable. 7. The value of this voucher is £50 and can be redeemed against must be used by 30th April 2015. 9. This voucher can not be used for Steak food and drink. 8. Voucher must be used by 28th Feb 2014 9. This voucher can Night. 10. Excludes house 10. wine. 11. This voucher only voucher be used can on full not be used for Steak Night. Excludes house wine. can 11. This only priced food items, even be used on full priced food items, evenififititisisaatheme themenight. night. 12. Excudes 12. Excludes Sundays. Establishment's decision Sundays. Establishment’s decision is final is final.

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HEALTH

Quality dentures mean a quality lifestyle The Importance of Dentures The eyes, nose and teeth are the focal points of every face; they give the first impressions of your personality. 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.

Choice of Dentures There are four main quality standards in denture materials. The denture base (gum coloured on which the denture teeth sit). 40

• • • • •

Standard Quality High Impact Acrylics (much stronger) Injection Pressure Formed (Premium Denture Base) Flexible (Partial Dentures) Metal Denture

The Denture Teeth • • •

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.

2 Layer Acrylic (economy) 3 Layer Acrylic (harder wearing) 4 Layer Reinforced (hard wearing, natural look) N.F.C. (Nano filled composite) premium teeth.

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.

Of course, the materials alone will not make a good denture. In the hands of a skillful and experienced Clinical Dental Technician the best results are achieved.

Have your dentures inspected by a Clinical Dental Technician at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.

•

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

Your Dentures need Attention 1. When they become loose. 2. When teeth or denture base discolours. 3. When tooth surfaces become flat. 4. When denture base does not fit around natural teeth (in partial dentures).

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5. When you develop deep lines around your mouth. 6. When your chin sticks out, and the corners of your lips are constantly wet, developing sores. 7. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.

My Dentures have become loose! This is easily remedied by a procedure know as Re-lining. A new layer of Denture base is added to your existing Denture, improving the fit and restoring confidence.

Dentures with worn down teeth Teeth excessively worn, require a new set of dentures.

Dentures on Implants

This type of Denture is constructed in conjunction with the Dental Implant Surgeon. This is a very good procedure when the patient has limited control and retention of their Dentures. The finished Dentures ‘click’ into position offering the ultimate in Denture Retention.

Major improvements in Facial Features

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.

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.

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.

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.

Difficulties in Constructing a Good Set of Dentures

Equipped with solid technical training as a Dental Technician - plus posttechnician 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.

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.

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.

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.

www.albertroaddenturecentre.co.uk

ALBERT ROAD DENTURE CENTRE

smile w i th co nf i de nce

Douglas Heaysman is a Clinical Dental Technician with over 40 years of experience and study. Doug creates bespoke hand crafted dentures using state of the art materials and techniques for an optimum fit and maximum comfort. Visit us for a free of charge 20 minute consultation for new dentures, implants or any denture related problems to discuss your concerns and to find out how we can help you.

We now offer Dental Implants in conjunction with an Implant Specialist. These stabilise troublesome dentures and can truly change lives. Home visits are available, where we come to you for all consultations and fittings. Quality, Convenience and Professionalism are our watchwords and our dedicated team will be with you every step of the way, with a personal, understanding and caring service.

•

FREE CONSULTATION

•

HANDCRAFTED DENTURES

•

DENTAL IMPLANTS

•

EMERGENCY REPAIRS

•

HOME VISITS AVAILABLE

•

ELECTRONIC DENTURE CLEANING

•

ORAL SCREENING SERVICE

Douglas Heaysman Dip CDT RCS (Eng) RDT Clinical Dental Technician, Denture Provider Registered with the General Dental Council (no 112441)

71 Albert Road, Colne BB8 0BP | T: 01282 862823 2B Petre Court, Petre Road, Clayton-le-Moors BB5 5HY | T: 01254 388333 www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

If care becomes an issue, what legal considerations should I be mindful of? If you or a loved one became in need of care there are a number of matters that you and your family will need to consider, such as what care is needed? Who will provide it? Should it be provided at home or in a residential setting? However, what tends to come as an afterthought or as a problem needs resolving is the legal considerations we might have or what help and support is available from the legal profession? This guide is aimed to give you an indication of the types of advice you may need in later life and as part of retirement generally. It is not an exhaustive list but it covers the main areas of advice that may crop up. It is important to note that every family is different and therefore advice is based on the individual circumstances. This guide is designed so you can cut it out and keep it until such time as you or a loved one may need it. My best advice is to get as much information as possible by a solicitor who specialises in advising later life clients. This will enable you to be equipped to make informed decisions that can give you peace of mind and may result in saving you money.

Wills

Do you have a will? If you do have a will have it reviewed in light of concerns on care fees? Is there scope for any estate planning?

Property

Do you have property? If you do what do you have? How do you hold it? What would happen if one or both of you went into care?

Assets

What do you have financially and how do you hold it? Do you have an inheritance tax issue? Are you in contemplation of care? Do you want to make gifts?

Income

What is your income and will it pay for your care? Does it more than meet your needs? If you have an inheritance issue are you managing it effectively? Are you claiming everything that you are entitled to? Do you need to see a financial advisor to look at maximising your income?

Powers of attorney

Do you understand what they are? Do you have them?

If you need advice on any of the above please contact Jane Flaherty on 01282 426666 or email at 42 Jflaherty@waddingtonandson.co.uk

Do you need a Property and Finance power of attorney? Do you need a Health and Welfare power of attorney? Are they capable of being made and if not do you know what the Court of Protection’s Role is and how to apply?

Trusts

Do you know what they are and how they work? Life time trust or a will trust? Implications in respect of care fees versus implications in respect of Inheritance Tax

Care issues

You may need a fuller understanding on the funding of care – self funding, NHS continuing care of s.17 funding – what does that mean and how does it apply? The implications of signing a third party top up fee? Is someone being moved from a care home? Do you want somebody to be moved? Do you need help because you are unhappy with an aspect of care? Do you need to know where you stand on such matters? Do you need some assistance with a safeguarding matter because you are concerned for someone?

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LOCAL SOLICITORS FOR LOCAL PEOPLE ELDERLY CLIENT SERVICES Advice is available in all the following areas: Making a Will l Family Trusts and Asset Protection l Inheritance Tax l Powers of Attorney l Court of Protection l Planning for Long Term Care l

Local Authority and NHS funding of care including disputes l Living Wills and Welfare Attorneys l Safeguarding for Vulnerable Adults l

We can offer a free initial appointment at our offices. We offer home visits where appropriate. In the first instance contact

Jane Flaherty on 01282 426666 to make an appointment

28 Manchester Rd, Burnley, Lancashire T: 01282 426666

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CARE

Independent Living Helping you stay in your own home

Maybe you have elderly parents, and worry constantly about them living alone and unable to get help if they fall, or become ill. If you live too far away to see them on a day to day basis, and they want to stay where they are, your hands are tied, so you worry about them. Or maybe you live alone, and find life increasingly difficult. Or again, perhaps you care for a frail loved one, but find yourself getting more and more exhausted and stressed out. In all these situations, have you checked out the help available? We all want to stay in our own home, and fortunately, the current trend is for local authorities to do all they can to help elderly people remain in their own homes for as long as possible.

Help in an Emergency High on the list is providing help for the elderly in an emergency. This is where modern technology comes in. Calico Assure is an easy-to-use emergency alarm service which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a 44

week, 365 days a year. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s designed to help you live safely, securely and independently in your own home, whilst giving your family and carers the reassurance that help is at hand should you need it. It provides peace of mind from as little as ÂŁ6 per week.

Who can benefit from the service? l

Older people who live alone

l Families l Carers l

People who have recently been discharged from hospital l People with a history of falls l People with dementia l People with an on-going illness that affects their wellbeing, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy or a heart condition.

Calico Assure will allow you to get help in your own home from either people you know and trust or the emergency services.

The alarm consists solely of a base unit and a pendant, and is very easy to install.

How does it work? Help at the touch a of button! Calico Assure is very easy to use. If you need help, just press the red button on the pendant, which can be worn around your neck or wrist - this will send an emergency call to the monitoring centre. An operator will answer your call quickly and politely. They will get you the help you need. All calls are recorded for monitoring and training requirements. You need a live telephone landline that receives incoming and outgoing calls. You will need to provide contact details for a minimum of two keyholders to ensure your call is responded to appropriately. If you cannot provide two keyholders, please call them to discuss further available options.

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They also offer a range of additional devices that can help you keep safe in your home, from smoke alarms to Key Safes. Simply call 0800 169 2407 where you can speak to their trained team.

Choosing the right care Home care is the best option of support to enable your loved one to stay within the comfort of home, living independently. It is an affordable alternative to a care home and without the stress of moving and leaving familiar surroundings. Choosing a home care provider can be difficult as there are so many, but how do you choose the right one that will provide the quality of care that your loved one deserves. How to choose a home care provider without worrying if you are making the right decision is to have the right questions to ask or to know what to look for.

Regulatory bodies for home care Always ensure that the home care provider is registered with the relevant

Valuing home care workers

care regulator for their country and in the UK, this is the Care Quality Commission (CQC)

A good home care provider will value their home care workers, providing them with adequate training and regular refresher training. Investment in care staff is important to ensure that they are happy and confident in their role. Care staff should have regular supervision and be supported to gain health and social care qualifications.

Care regulators will audit the provision of care regularly to ensure that each provider is meeting their statutory requirements.

Memberships and associations Look for membership with United Kingdom Home Care Association (UKHCA), this is the professional association of home care providers. They promote higher standards of care, and act as one voice for care providers to bring about changes in legislation and policy. A good care provider will be actively involved in contributing to the betterment of the social care system.

Free home care assessment

Experience and continuity of care

A Home Care provider that is active in its local community will be able to offer more than just care in the home. It will a good awareness of local services and help the cared for not be isolated within his/her home. The provider will also assist with the integration of care through having good relationships with other care and medical professionals in the area.

When looking at home care providers, it is good to have an understanding of what experience they have, how long have they been operating for in the area. Also check how long the company itself has been operating and that is robust so able to provide care for the foreseeable future.

A free home care assessment should always be provided, this includes a risk assessment. Care planning should also be, ideally person centred which means that they listen to the needs and wishes of the customer, putting them at the heart of what they do.

Community involvement

Help to live independently for longer Peace of mind at the touch of a button

365

Emergency Alarms

days a year

from as little as ÂŁ6 per week

hours a day

For more information, call 0800 169 2407 or 01282 686300 or visit www.calico.org.uk/assure www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Independence with

Village Kitchen When I entered the Village Kitchen, I was struck by the delightful atmosphere. The café itself is really homely, pleasant and well decorated, with nostalgic images of old foodstuffs lining the walls. It had a feeling of a traditional village café – the kind I remember from my childhood. I was greeted by my waitress, who very kindly escorted me to my seat and made sure I was comfortable. Just one glance over the menu was enough to make my mouth water. The Village Kitchen offers a wide range of delicious three-course meals, freshly prepared using produce from local suppliers – and, most importantly, they don’t cost the earth either! A different set of meals is offered each day – as it was a Tuesday, I went for the vegetable soup, followed by fish in parsley sauce, finishing off with a scrumptious strawberry cheesecake. Served very swiftly by the Village Kitchen’s delightful and friendly staff, the food was piping hot and tasted every bit as good as it looked.

TOP TIPS FOR TACKLING LONELINESS Whether your family has flown the nest, you’ve moved to a new area or you’ve lost your loved one, we can all find ourselves lonely at times. Sandy Sidhu, Founder of Silver Villages suggests tips to tackle loneliness. By Sandy Sidhu, Founder of Silver Villages

There was a real communal atmosphere at the Village Kitchen, too. It was great to see so many friendly faces on the tables around me – it wasn’t long before we were all chatting, laughing and reminiscing about the good old days. By the time I’d finished my meal, I was having so much fun, I didn’t want to leave! I cannot recommend the Village Kitchen enough – the staff are polite and helpful, the atmosphere is warm and friendly, and the food is, in my opinion, Michelin-star quality. I can’t wait to go back next week! For more information, contact us on 01706 344534, email us at contact@whitworthcaretrust.org.uk or visit www.whitworthcaretrust.org.uk

1. Find the time - Think about old friends you may have fallen out of touch with who you think might just love to hear from you! Websites such as Facebook make it much easier to track old friends down. If you haven’t already sign up for an e-mail account and skype to make free video calls. 2. Be around children - Children have a natural joy and exuberance that makes us feel good and smile, so make time to play with your grandkids or family - their innocence and joy is infectious! 3. Holiday – Arrange a holiday either abroad or in this country with either your friends or family. Or consider going on your own. Companies such as Solos travel specialise in packages for single travellers. It’s wonderful to have something so exciting to look forward to. 4. Consider a pet - Having a pet is more often that not a very loving experience. Getting an easy to look after pet dog encourages you to get out the house and get some fresh air. If you can’t have your own dog, help someone else out and help look after their dog at www.borrowmydoggy.com. 5. Start something new - Why don’t you take up a hobby or learn something new? It provides an opportunity to meet people and start a friendship. Join a group, club or a community to have lovely things to look forward to. If you have the time, voluntary work is also a wonderful way to give back and to meet new people.

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Advertorial feature

Getting to know your elderly care options A guide to help you plan for your needs in later life. If you’re concerned about the care of a loved one, it can be difficult to know where to turn. It’s not always easy to talk about elderly care and you may go through a range of emotions, or feel that you’re on your own. Aside from the emotional strain, families also have to get to grips with the implications of paying for care, which can be complex. There’s also the decision about which care to choose, which will depend on a number of factors, including the level of care required.

Many care homes provide a range of care types at one location giving the home the ability to meet individuals’ changing care needs within a single setting. This means that residents may not need to relocate to another care home should their care needs change in the future.

There are several types of care that homes can provide, such as short-stay, residential, nursing and dementia, each of which offers a specific kind of support to meet individual needs.

Choosing the right care home is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. For this reason, it is important that you research and fully understand all the different options available to you, including the likely costs, to ensure you make the right choice.

It’s common for someone needing a care home to feel a burden and for relatives to feel guilty about not being able to provide the care themselves. However, life in a care home can bring great benefits; helping people to stay independent for longer in a safe and homely environment, while ensuring help is at hand when needed. Care homes can also offer a real community spirit, where people can interact with their fellow residents, families and friends and enjoy a more active social life based on their interests and hobbies.

If you would like advice based on your personal circumstances, or you are just not sure where to start, whether it’s queries about funding, getting help to look after someone at home, or just starting the conversation with a loved one about care, Bupa offers a free advice service run by experts.

To discover what care could mean for you in Blackburn and Burnley, talk to an expert today. Call 0333 331 5394†

READER OFFER For your free ‘A Guide to Making Choices for the Years Ahead’, send this coupon to: Care Journey Experts, Bupa Care Services, Bridge House, Outwood Lane, Leeds, LS18 4UP Name: ........................................................ Address: .................................................. ...................................................................... ....................................................................... ....................................................................... Tel No: ....................................................... Email: ......................................................... Tick this box if you do not wish to receive further information about Bupa’s products and services.

They are there to listen to your circumstances and, by explaining your options, help you to make choices that are right for you and your loved one.

†Calls to 03 numbers from any line are charged at no more than local rates and count towards any inclusive minutes from mobiles. Calls may be monitored and may be recorded.

A great day out for all the famil y ating

g E Shoppin ·

· Gardenin g · Playing

Ground Floor

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First Floor

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Fashion & Footwear Department

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Great local produce from in and around the Lancashire area.

Casablanca’s Café

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Third Floor Bedding & Soft Furnishings Collectables, Vintage & Kitchenalia Childrens Toys & Clothes Crafts & Gifts • Penny Arcade

Bespoke Furniture • Home Interiors Carpets & Rugs • Multi Fuel Stoves • Waterbeds Steam Showers • Pictures & Wall Art

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furniture & interiors Fourth Floor

Located on the 4th floor, providing the ideal stop off to refuel ready to shop your way back to the ground floor or have a wholesome meal before leaving for home.

FREE ENTRY BotanyBay

Open Weekdays 10am-2pm Weekends 10am-4pm Seasonal Shop Function Room • Toilets

FREE PARKING @BotanyBayUK

For more information please visit:

www.botanybay.co.uk Call 01257 261 220 or email info@botanybay.co.uk Canal Mill, Botany Brow, Chorley PR6 9AF