Bolton & Bury issue 65

JANUARY - MARCH 2020

BOLTON & BURY EDITION 65

Sir Cliff Richard

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Thank you. Chris and Margaret Hey HHHHH First class service, wide choice and friendly advice from this family team. Great telephone contact, delivery arrangements exactly as specified. I give them five star.

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BY ANGELA KELLY “mockumentary” which will take what they see as gospel.

They will, wrongly, assume that this is true history being played out by actors and definitely happened. In fact, as in The Crown, there are some scenes “imagined” – in other words, they made it up.

Although accepting that it can be used by those with an agenda to shape public opinion, it’s not necessarily always a damaging ploy.

In the hit 2017 film Darkest Hour set in May, 1940, and about Winston Churchill winning the hearts and minds of both Parliament and the public during World War Two, there is a scene on the London underground which is pivotal.

Do film and TV dramas really tell the truth?

VETERAN broadcaster John Sergeant raised an interesting point about how fictionalised versions of history may fool people into believing this is actually what happened.

He was concerned about the Netflix hit series The Crown. He felt the way it depicted the Royal Family might not be “appropriate” and that timelines and events were “massaged and altered” to assist the drama. This comes after the Queen’s ex-press secretary called imagined scenes “distasteful.”

However accurate or otherwise such dramatised versions of real-life are, there is definitely a concern there about how near the truth such versions may be. They are, after all, created for entertainment and perhaps some periods of history, some lives, are just not that interesting for quite a large part of them.

When there are occurrences (and, goodness me, the Royal Family had a year packed with them in 2019) then they tend to be the ones on which, quite naturally, dramatists focus.

More worrying – which I think is John Sergeant’s point – is that there will be a large portion of any audience of this kind of 4

Churchill meets and chats to Londoners who give their opinion about the war which alters, or possibly cements, his own views.

As a result, he makes an inspirational speech to Parliament.

However, researchers who observed people meeting in local government, public organisations, the police and health bodies found decision-making is actually very limited.

These findings will be balm to all those harassed souls forced to attend endless meetings with their job. Furthermore, the researchers say that these meetings are often more like “therapy”, allowing people to air complaints, justify their job or clarify their own status.

Brilliant! Some decisions are best taken by a very small number of purpose-driven individuals who will get on with what’s important.

Ready for my 10 o’clock meeting? Sorry, it’s just not productive enough.

Apparently, there is no evidence that this ever happened. We don’t mind, though, because it is artistic licence and adds to the points being made about Churchill which were historically accurate.

I suppose the problem is that most of us have either forgotten what we’ve learned of some specific period or event in history or are simply too lazy to find out the truth.

We go with the version that entertains us, happily accepting that this “seems right” so it must be true, which is possibly dangerous naivety.

When meetings really take us nowhere I LOVE the latest findings about business meetings: that they may be more about status and showing off than actually getting anything done.

According to academics from Malmo University and Lund University in Sweden, some managers spend more than half their working week in meetings.

YouTube is the go-to place for practical skills ARE you a Bake Off fan? I watch it sometimes but it always leaves me feeling hungry.

I do love, though, Junior Bake Off because it’s not only inspirational but fascinating to witness the skills that these youngsters display with so much confidence.

The latest winner was 13 year-old Finley Woodward. Far from having to be prised off his X-box, Finley plainly loved to cook and was absolutely amazing at it.

He learned his skills from his grandmother and from watching YouTube videos and, while the former seems so logical, us older types have had to come to terms with how people pick up new talents these days.

In fact,YouTube is a fantastic tool. I’ve learned how to put my hair up in quite an enviable style, can now re-wire a plug and regularly watch “how to massage” videos purely for the relaxation.

OK, it’s not Bake Off, but what other clip can make your eyelids shut and you feel totally relaxed. Oh, sorry, forgot Newsnight.

Cheers to the wine tasters – and good luck!

I DON’T know about you but I’ve always been in awe of those wine buffs who really understand their subject.

You know the type: they study the bottle before it’s even opened, pronounce on the year or the region in some knowledgeable way, swill the first mouthful lovingly around before swallowing and then talk about its nose or undertones.

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Now, research suggests that many so-called wine connoisseurs cannot tell one bottle from another. Food scientists at Oxford University had experienced tasters convinced they were sampling a delicious rose when they actually drinking a white wine – made from an entirely different grape but dyed pink with food colouring.

Now, there is concern that wine snobs may not actually be able to distinguish one tipple from another by taste and aroma but are primarily driven by colour.

In that case, minesh a red!

Walliams’ wicked humour makes him top author DAVID Walliams may be a comedian but he is definitely laughing all the way to the bank as the writer of children’s books.

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The creator of Mr Stink, The Boy in the Dress and Gangsta Granny has notched up sales of £100 million. This puts the Britain’s Got Talent judge into an exclusive bracket of children’s authors.

Since he first started writing children’s literature in 2008, the former Little Britain star has written 25 books including seven picture books and four short story collections.

Perhaps what helps the talented Walliams is that he now has a six year-old son but I’m sure what is equally important is his own quirky personality and lack of fear when it comes to performing in public.

He’s worth a book in himself.

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Dr Jonathan Rees is a specialist oral surgeon and is a Senior Clinical Teaching Fellow and Examiner in Implantology. Whether it’s a relatively simple dental implant or a complex case, Dr Rees has the wealth of experience to expertly handle all procedures having placed over 3000 implants since 1995!

While dental implants can be a life changing Travel procedure, it’s important to choose a dental team JOHN SUCHET TAKES A DANUBE RIVER CRUISE WITH UNIWORLD who have the experience and expertise to deliver the outcome you desire. At Smiles Manor Dental Care, Dr Hay and Dr Buchan work in conjunction with Dr Rees, fitting the final crown work after the placement of the dental implants. Our dental implant team have the superior training and highly advanced surgical skills to deliver a level of excellence that is second to none.

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thorough examination and provide you with a fully detailed treatment plan which will include all of CONTENTS | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE the dental options available to you along with an estimate of all likely costs before any treatment 4-5 WeTWITTERING ONinterest free credit facility if begins. also offer an

By Angela Kelly desired. You will have the opportunity to discuss any 12-13 TRAVEL queries you may have directly with Dr Rees. We also

A look at the Amalfi Coast have a designated implant co-ordinator nurse, Karen, 14-15 SIR CLIFF RICHARD who will take care ofhis you during your treatment.

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Tips on how to take care of your clothes eliminate the need for this, thereby retaining more 45 FOOD & DRINK tooth structure.

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09/06/2014 15:4

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bring some for us, I thought. Smiling, she put the tray down and said: “I thought you might like a glass of champagne.” We hadn’t ordered any. She had read our minds.

JOHN SUCHET TAKES A DANUBE RIVER CRUISE WITH UNIWORLD I was a great fan of river cruises before I ever took one. There must be something to see every day. Was I right? There was only one way to find out, and the opportunity presented itself last October - a Danube River Cruise with Uniworld, on which I would give talks about Vienna, City of Music, also describe how the waltz came to Vienna, and introduce a concert in an ornate Viennese palace.

(cabins are so passé), when I received a text message: ‘We’re in the Habsburg salon.’

It got better. We went up on to the sundeck and sat round a table admiring the beautiful city of Budapest from the river. I spotted a waitress climbing the steps, one hand on the handrail, the other balancing a tray with six glasses of champagne. I wonder if she’d

I decided to combine pleasure with business.

For the last decade or so, every October I have had a reunion with my oldest friends in the world, fellow students I graduated with over half a century ago. We were at university in Dundee, so in past years bottles have been opened and consumed in Scotland’s great cities. This time, why not make it extra special, and toast our friendship aboard S.S. Maria Theresa, gliding gently along the Danube, surrounded by exquisite scenery you might almost be able to reach out and touch?

It took a masterpiece of planning. Let me tell you how it began. My wife Nula and I had barely unpacked in our state room

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Boat Exterior in Budapest

That was a hallmark of the trip. Impeccable service on a truly beautiful ship. The captain addressed us all on the first evening, and it was evident how proud he was of her. The S.S. Maria Theresa is done out in the style of the Empress she is named after. Luxurious, splendid, glass doors and walls, gilded mirrors and chandeliers.

He acknowledged, in his welcome speech, that the state rooms were not large. How could they be on a river cruise ship which needed to negotiate some narrow passages of river and many locks? “But have you noticed the space underneath the bed?”

There was a collective intake of breath. Bed coverings are so luxurious they reach the floor. It had not occurred to us to lift them

Uniworld Lobby

up, to reveal a vast space underneath specially designed to take your suitcases. Clever.

Our cruise began in Budapest and travelled west, via Bratislava and Vienna to Passau in Germany. Over the course of a week you see more variety than you could ever predict.

Big city life in Budapest and Vienna. Small city life in Bratislava and Passau. Country life as you cruise down the Wachau Valley, Austria’s wine growing area.

You want activity? Every day excursions were available - from city tours to walking tours and bike rides, from a visit to a winery to an exclusive visit to a saffron workshop.

You want to stay nice and quiet? Just lounge on the sundeck or in your state room.

You might want to join some of the more energetic tours, if only to work off the weight you put on in the restaurant. The food was exceptional, and just as the ship itself reflects life in the historic Habsburg Empire, so the food brings you a taste of the area the ship is in on that particular day.

There is no doubt about it. Uniworld river cruises - from Portugal in the west to Russia in the east - are the height of luxury. Several experienced river cruisers told us they always travel Uniworld - with a knowing

look and a comment along the lines of “You get what you pay for.”

Yes, they are not cheap, but everything is included, and I mean everything. That means all food and drink. Not just wine and soft drinks, but all drinks. That first tray of champagne is already paid for - so is very other drink you consume on the trip. Experienced Uniworld travellers know to pace themselves. Tips too are all included.You are not expected to tip, but several discreet handshakes were given for exceptional service.You really could leave your credit card at home.

So was I right about river cruises? In a word yes, and now I really can speak from

experience. The only problem: much as I love the cities of Scotland, next year’s reunion will have a lot to live up to.

Uniworld’s (uniworld.com / 0808 301 2705) eight day Enchanting Danube cruise from Budapest to Passau is priced from £2,499 per person, twin share, for departures between March – November 2020. All-inclusive price includes luxury onboard accommodation in a riverview stateroom onboard the S.S. Maria Theresa, all meals and unlimited beverages onboard; onshore excursions, all transfers on arrival and departure days and return flights from the UK. Offers are regularly available, check www.uniworld.com/uk/current-offers/ for details.

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Coastal | Rural | Woodland 9

If you’ve not tried coach holidays before why not let Ellen Smith’s take you on your first coach experience. We’ve been established for over 120 years – so we know a bit about coaching holidays!

We do things a bit differently than our rivals All our tours include our ‘Door to Door’ service.

That means that you are picked up by a taxi or small minibus right from your front door. No feeders, no interchanges, no changing coaches, no changing drivers and definitely no hassle!

Within 30 minutes We normally have everyone on board and we’re on our way. We often have a second pickup at Stockport, but again this is timed for minimal delay.

We are fully Financially Bonded And use some excellent privately-owned hotels. All visits and excursions are included in the price. We use modern coaches and mature friendly drivers.

How does it work?

On the morning of travel we pick you up at a prearranged time and take you to our waiting coach at Birch Services.

We’re off on holiday then!

The same happens on the way back too, taxi back to your front door!

We never discount We charge the correct price in the first place – therefore everybody on board pays the same price.

Finally If you can find the same or similar holiday for sale cheaper in the UK we’ll refund the difference to the whole coach!

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YEA RS Membersh No: 10228ip

Our 2020 ‘Door to Door’ Coach Tours Brochure out now, telephone us on:

01706 648126 for your free copy.

Once you’ve gone the Ellen Smith way you’ll never go back!

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DOO R COA CH

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A SELECTION OF OUR 2020 COACH TOURS

BEAUTIFUL CORNWALL - Rosemundy House Hotel Overview: Our tour is based in St. Agnes, a picturesque village on the north coast of Cornwall. Steeped in mining history, the village still retains a traditional friendly Cornish atmosphere.

Includes Visits to: Newquay & Padstow, Falmouth & Truro, Penzance & St. Ives. This Tour has a ‘Winter Warmer’ theme with Sherry Reception; one afternoon cream tea; glass of wine on the last evening.

28 February | 5 Days | £279

PAIGNTON - Palace Hotel

BOURNEMOUTH - Mayfair Hotel

Overview: Welcome to Paignton, part of the stunning English Riviera, situated on the South Devon coastline in sheltered Torbay. Paignton is very popular if you are looking for a quiet break. Staying at one of Paignton’s finest hotels, the Palace boasts a prime seafront location with fantastic views across Torbay.

Includes Visits to: Teignmouth, Exeter, Totnes, Dartmouth.

Overview: With seven miles of golden sands and sparkling sea, the vibrant cosmopolitan town of Bournemouth has it all – a vast variety of shops and restaurants, buzzing nightlife, endless countryside offering peace and relaxation and beautiful award-winning gardens.

Includes Visits to: Poole & Weymouth, Sherborne & Shaftesbury.

09 March | 5 Days | £289

16 March | 5 Days | £299

BEAUTIFUL DARTMOOR IN SPRING - The Moorland Hotel

THRIPLOW DAFFODIL WEEKEND - Mercure Letchworth Hall Hotel

Overview: Our tour is based at Haytor set at the base of Dartmoor - a magical, ancient landscape of stunning views, awe-inspiring granite tors and rugged, wide open spaces where you can truly escape to find peace and extreme beauty.

Stunning Dartmoor Views. Includes Visits to: Tavistock & Plymouth, Coastal Town of Teignmouth, Historic Exeter, Picturesque Fishing Port of Brixham, Seaside Resort of Torquay

Overview: Nothing says spring quite like Daffodils!

Since the first event in 1969, the weekend has grown larger and larger attracting thousands of visitors over the years to come and enjoy the village and its fantastic fair & daffodils. The 4 Star Mercure Letchworth Hall Hotel stands in 8 acres of grounds in Hertfordshire. Dating back to 1652 this former old English Manor House retains many Jacobean features.

Tour Highlights: Thriplow Daffodil Weekend & Country Fair. University City of Cambridge.

Overview: A holiday in Blackpool will leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed and recharged - even if you’re on the go 25 hours a day! Perhaps it’s the resort’s infectious zest for life. Or maybe it’s just that, uniquely, whatever your routine Blackpool can offer a perfect break from it. Day Excursions: ½ Day and 1 Full Day Excursion. These will be operated by The Doric Hotel and although these are included in the cost of the holiday, please ensure that you register your name with the Hotel Reception staff upon arrival at the hotel.

23 March | 5 Days | £299

27 March | 4 Days | £289

30 March | 5 Days | £239

AVEBURY MANOR & GARDEN AND BRISTOL BOAT TRIP Best Western Blunsdon House Overview: A lovely new tour for 2020 which includes something for everyone with a City Docks Boat Trip, a visit to a 16th century Manor House & Garden and free time to explore the beautiful city of Bath. Tour Highlights: Admission to Avebury Manor & Garden, Market Town of Marlborough, Bristol including a Boat Trip, Beautiful Bath, Pretty Village of Lacock.

02 April | 5 Days | £389

INTERESTED?

WEYMOUTH - Hotel Rex

LLANDUDNO Marlborough Hotel Overview: Llandudno is Wales’s largest resort, uniquely situated between the Great and Little Ormes with two wonderful beaches, the awardwinning North Shore and the quiet, sand duned West Shore.

We enjoy the short journey to Conwy, a delightful small town with a picturesque quayside overlooked by the mighty Conwy Castle.

03 April | 4 Days | £259

Call our reservations office on 01706 648126 and request a copy of our 2020 brochure. You’ll be surprised at the variations of tours we operate. Visit our website at www.ellensmith.co.uk

BLACKPOOL - Doric Hotel

Overview: Located on the beautiful Dorset coast and known as one of the UK’s most beautiful seaside resorts lies Weymouth. With its warmer climate, stretch of golden sands, shallow waters and pretty harbourside you certainly won’t be disappointed!

Tour Highlights: Return Trip on Seaton Tramway Lyme Regis, Admission to Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, Free Day to Explore Weymouth 10 Single Rooms Available!

06 April | 5 Days | £399

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BELLS, SCOOTERS AND THE SLEEPING GIANT to grow their olives, vines and lemons below it. Our Italian guide lives in the Red Zone.

The Amalfi Coast with One Traveller, by Kay Wiseman from Silver Travel Advisor My fellow travellers visibly relax as we meander through the piazzas of Sorrento on a sunny Sunday morning.

Church bells ring, Italian families with bright eyed ‘bambinos’ stroll along and scooters narrowly avoid tourists gazing at menus outside open air restaurants Layer upon layer of civilisation clings to the cliffs along the Amalfi Coast overlooking the Bay of Naples and the sleeping giant – Vesuvius. Dormant since 1944, this volcano towers over densely inhabited suburbs of fatalistic Italians who continue

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Lemons, mozzarella cheese, olives, fish and of course good wine are the region’s speciality. Our One Traveller guide, Richard, takes us on a walking tour of Sorrento and we visit a family run lemon grove to taste the essential Limoncello. Time to look at the designer shops along Corso Italia before we explore the cobbled old town with upmarket souvenir shops and see craftsmen working on beautiful inlaid wood items. Take a side street off the main shopping area and you can enjoy a cappuccino amongst animated Italians.

The excellent Grand Hotel Riviera, Sorrento is our base for this 7-night stay on the Amalfi Coast. The terrace transports us into Paradise with the magnificent vista of the Bay. One fellow traveller tells me that she always travels with One Traveller “I know the hotel will be good, interesting and off the beaten track excursions are all included and we can count on Richard to make everything run smoothly, he is always there.”

There are many loyal people in our small group of 25. Many repeat bookings too. “I feel secure with them” another tells me.

One Traveller cater well for the mature single traveller, the entire booking process has been easy and well thought out and Richard is very good at anticipating the group’s ability for access to sights and restaurants. Most meals are included in the One Traveller package and wine is included. The hotel food is fresh and the restaurant setting delightful, but a highlight was when we were taken out to dine in Sorrento at Ristorante o’Parruchiano dating back to 1868.

This was a magical venue and much appreciated by those in the group who avoid going out a night at home.

Conversation flowed with good travel and life stories sprinkled with humour. A unique number system indicating our place settings for dinner in the hotel meant that we all had jolly good evenings with each other and met everyone in the group.

After a good night’s sleep each day begins with another delight to look forward to. Capri by boat, and luckily, we did not have to attempt the 900 steps up to Ana Capri, but took a drive up the ‘Mama Mia’ road which made us all whisper prayers. The gem, in this once isolated village, is the ‘Pavimento in maiolica’ in the church of San Michele. The tiled floor shows the expulsion of

Naples is now unforgettable for me due to a visit to Capella San Severo. In 1753 Giuseppe Sanmartino carved Jesus Christ in death covered by a transparent shroud out of one block of marble. It is the most remarkable sculpture I have ever seen – Giuseppe was paid 50 ducats.

Adam and Eve from Paradise and it is hard to believe that these vibrant tiles were laid in 1761.

Boat rides are popular and we were offered the chance of two. One around Capri to appreciate the stunning geology and another from Amalfi from which we spotted the villas of the stars.

Pompei is well publicised as an archaeological wonder but we were also taken to visit the remarkable sites at Pozzuoli and Paestrum, with a little imagination and I could visualise fishermen and bustling traders doing business, laughing with the ladies and listening to great speakers in the public squares after paying tribute to Poseidon in the Greek Temple.

An unusual excursion begins when we reach the organic Vannulo buffalo farm for lunch and a tour. Here are buffalo who listen to Mozart, go into the milking shed of their own accord, eat, snooze and rub up against a massage machine when the feeling takes them. A very content herd of 200 buffalo to be sure.

Think of Naples and think of a city with Godfather undercurrents, but here is a melting pot of people and history and colour. An espresso before we begin exploring is a must and a finer venue that the coffee club Gambriosa cannot be found.

The historic part of town gives us a glimpse of past power and wealth in Castel dell’Ovo and Galleria Umberto.

No visit to Naples is complete without enjoying a leisurely lunch in a piazza eating pizza. Pizza Marguerita was invented here.

And so our time on the Amalfi Coast ends but the final cherry on the cake for me is the fact that One Traveller promise that every time a guest travels with them, they make a donation to the various charities they are supporting. One Traveller says “that as a responsible travel company they want to put something back into communities we visit and to help vulnerable people enjoy a better quality of life” – now that gives me the feelgood factor too.

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CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

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SIR CLIFF RICHARD CELEBRATING HIS 80TH BIRTHDAY FEW artists can lay claim to the kind of stellar career that Sir Cliff Richard has enjoyed – and even fewer can say they are still touring successfully.

been there for him for several decades. But the reality is that Sir Cliff has managed to keep in tune with the times very astutely throughout his long career.

He is, though, amazingly celebrating his 80th birthday this year (2020). And it’s probably no surprise that this celebration involves a new tour.

He is the only singer in the history of music to have a No.1 hit in the 1950s, ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s and 1990s. He is the third artist, after Elvis Presley and The Beatles, with the highest number of No.1 hits in the UK and more Top Ten hits than any other artist.

It is certainly a tribute to the man and his music that demand for The Great 80 Tour means that two shows at London’s Royal Albert Hall have already been added and ticket demand is likely to be extremely high.

It would be very easy to dismiss the bulk of those fans as being older – and he certainly has a great many loyal followers who have

14

In 1989, he became the first British recording artist to release 100 singles with The Best of Me. Behind all the statistics, however, lies a genuine home-grown music legend who helped to build the UK’s music reputation over all those decades and since. The man

has musicality running right through his veins.

That was all obvious to fans even when the young Cliff burst onto the rock ‘n roll world of the 1950s. Music was just moving away from the Sinatra crooning years and offered exciting possibilities to young fans across the world who were, finally, getting music that belonged just to them.

Cliff Richard was young, good-looking and considered the UK’s answer to America’s Elvis. His first hit single Move It in 1958 appeared to confirm that and Cliff - with his quiffed hair, moody looks and sexy moves - soon became a screamable star at home and abroad.

He had a good voice and savvy management as he quickly moved into films in 1959 with Serious Charge in which he played a young tearaway, adding to his then “bad boy” image. He also sang Living Doll in this film, creating just one of his popular classics.

The same year, he appeared in another film, Expresso Bongo, in which he prosaically, played a young singer at the start of his career. The Young Ones followed in 1961 and then in 1963 he and his backing group, The Shadows, made Summer Holiday.

The wealth of hits from this feelgood film really helped cement his reputation in the home market and across the world. He made three more films – Finders Keepers in 1966, Two a Penny in 1967 and Take Me High in 1973 – which also pleased fans but by then Cliff was box-office gold wherever he went.

Interestingly, Cliff was a great admirer of Elvis. “He was my idol from the beginning,” he has said. “Even today, when I’m alone, I’ll often put on the King Creole album. He’s produced the most exciting pop music sounds of all time.”

For Cliff, We Don’t Talk Anymore in 1979 proved to be his best-selling single, notching up more than five million sales worldwide. Private Collection in 1988 was his best-selling album with almost two million copies sold.

His reputation now settled into being a wholesome entertainer with fans across the age divide. Cliff was chosen to represent the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1968 with Congratulations and in 1973 with Power To All Our Friends.

With the former, Cliff was beaten to the title by just one point when the Spanish entry – long forgotten – won. Ironically, Congratulations has endured to enjoy the same international popularity as Happy Birthday as a celebratory song.

His long popularity has been underlined by a whole clutch of awards over the years. He won the British Record Industry Award for British Male Solo Artist n 1977,

the British Phonographic Industry Award for British Male Solo Artist in 1982 and a Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution in 1989.

In 2004, he was inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame for his outstanding contribution to British music and as an integral part of British music culture.

He is still recording and in October, 2019, collaborated on a duet, Samstag Nacht, with Howard Carpendale, and the album Symphonie Meines Lebens was released physically and digitally worldwide. Cliff Richard and the Shadows: The Best of the Rock ‘n Roll Pioneers was also released in November last year, focusing solely on Cliff’s output with The Shadows and featuring many of his top hits.

Born in Lucknow, India, as Harry Rodger Webb, Sir Cliff always had a strong family with three sisters. He has never made a secret of the fact that he is a Christian and has been perceived by all, not just his fans, to have lived a wholesome life.

This may explain the outcry in 2014 when his home was very publicly searched by

police following an historic allegation of sexual abuse of a minor. Sir Cliff was questioned by police but not arrested and the allegation was subsequently dropped.

His many fans were never in doubt of his innocence and his popularity remains undimmed.

Although he has always been generous in praise of his pop peers throughout the decades, Sir Cliff’s own remarkable, record-breaking success has not always been acknowledged.

As he stated himself: “My only gripe is when critics writing the history of rock ‘n roll leave me out altogether.

“I don’t subscribe to the view that if you’re not No.1 , it’s a failure. Maybe that’s why people disappear so quickly these days, because they have that attitude.”

For Sir Cliff, entering his eighth decade still on-song and still entertaining the fans, longevity in the notoriously fickle world of pop is obviously just not an issue.

* For details of The Great 80 Tour go to www.cliffrichard.org/latest-tour/ 15

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Make sure you give your solicitor all relevant background information, such as whether you’ve been married before, if you have any children, whether you’re widowed etc. All this information will help your solicitor to outline your options, explain any inheritance tax implications or whether the will needs to include a discretionary trust.

PLAN YOUR FUTURE MAKE A WILL Now the celebrations of Christmas and New Year are over, many people will turn their thoughts to the year ahead. Plans for diets, fitness regimes, holidays and moving home are just some of the best intentions we start the year with.

But one thing that many people leave off the ‘to do’ list is to make a will. While it’s not as exciting as booking a cruise, a will is probably one of the most important financial decisions you’ll ever make. Research carried out

by Royal London revealed that 54% of the adult population doesn’t have a will. For me, as a solicitor, this is a very scary statistic.

A will is an incredibly important document.

Without it, you’ll die intestate which means that you won’t be able to choose who you want to inherit from your estate, exclude those you don’t want to benefit from your death or even nominate those who you would want to look after your children. Instead, the government will decide on all these things and more for you, which may or may not correspond with your wishes, so you should never underestimate the power of a will.

There’s often a misconception that making a will is an expensive, time consuming process, but the cost of applying for a grant of probate – obtaining the legal authority from the court to deal with a deceased person’s financial affairs – is far more expensive. It’s also something that your loved ones would have to do after

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your death which only adds to the stress and heartache they’ll already be going through.

Planning your future in this way could be viewed as a little morbid, but the reality is that death is coming to us all, so it’s sensible to make arrangements in order for you to be able to choose who you want to benefit from your passing.

A good solicitor will put you at ease and explain the process in plain English so that you’re not overwhelmed or confused by any of the legal terms.You’ll also have peace of mind that your solicitor will be regulated by industry bodies, such as the Law Society and the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

Some solicitors specialise in older client law and are trained to deal with the specific requirements of older people. They may also be able to visit you at your home to take instructions if you find it difficult to get out.

If you’re planning on disinheriting any of your children or family members, make sure your solicitor knows about it so they can account for it when making your will. There are a growing number of successful claims made by children who have contested a will under the Inheritance Provision for Family and Dependents Act 1975. If your will is challenged, a judge can make an informed decision based on your explanation as to why those people have been left out of your will. If you don’t do it, a judge doesn’t have any evidence that you consciously made this decision and could potentially overturn your will.

There’s a lot to think about when making your will; here’s a list of the main points you should consider: Who will write it?

Unlike some will writers, solicitors are regulated and have a duty of care to act in your best interests. Whilst cheap, online or DIY wills can often cause problems further down the line because they only allow you to draft the most basic of wills. Anything a little more complicated can lead to the will being invalid or your loved ones having to pay a lot more to administer your estate retrospectively.

What are you worth?

In the first instance you need to understand how much you’re worth. Making a list of all your assets – any property, savings, shares, policies, insurances, pensions, jewelry, vehicles, gadgets, artwork, family heirlooms etc. – will help you determine the value of your estate.

Don’t forget to include any online accounts as these are easy to miss if there’s no paper trail.

Do the same thing again, but this time, list all your debts. These will be any outstanding mortgages, credit card balances to pay, loans, finance arrangements – anything you owe money on.

Judith Bromley Russell & Russell

Choosing an executor When it comes to choosing an executor, you can appoint anyone you like as long as they’re over the age of 18. A word of caution though; being an executor is a responsible job that can involve a lot of work. They’re the person who’ll deal with distributing your estate, so you need

to make sure that whoever you choose they’re both capable of doing it and want to.

Who’ll benefit?

Next, think about who you want to inherit your assets. Will it be all family or is there someone who isn’t a blood relative you’d like to leave something to? Also, think about family dynamics. More people are re-marrying, so if this applies to you, you’ll need to think about how this will pan out if you have children from your first marriage, for example.

You might also want to leave money to charity or an organisation.

If this is the case, you’ll need to be careful to list the full name, address and registered charity number. Whoever and whatever you leave your estate to, it’s really important that you’re clear about what exactly you want to leave and to whom.

Make sure it’s valid This can’t be stressed enough. If you don’t sign your will, it won’t be worth the paper it’s written on. This may be obvious, but it’s surprising how many people forget. As well as yourself, you’ll need two independent witnesses to sign in each other’s presence.

The witnesses, their spouses or civil partners can’t be a beneficiary of your will otherwise they’ll lose their right to their inheritance. In fact, they shouldn’t even be present when your will is being signed.

It’s also wise not to ask an executor to be a witness.

If you’re unable to physically sign the will yourself, a clause needs to be added to the will stating that you understand the contents of it. It can then be signed on your behalf (as long as you’re present when it happens) with your consent. The consent basically states that you’re aware of the signing and that you’ve done it voluntarily and without pressure from anyone.

If you’ve been diagnosed with a degenerative mental illness, such as dementia you can still make your will as long as you have mental capacity and understand the effect it will have. Again, you’ll need to add a clause saying you understand the contents of your will before it’s signed, but in addition you may also need a medical practitioner’s statement at the time the will is signed, certifying that you understand what you’re signing.

Keep it up to date Once you’ve drafted your will, it’s vital you keep it up to date.

Events like divorce or marriage will invalidate your will. To avoid confusion, once you’ve updated your will, make sure you destroy any earlier versions.

Storing your will Leave your will with your solicitor for safekeeping and advise your executor of its location. For reference, your solicitor can provide you with a copy. Never attach documents to your will with paperclips or staples because if they become separated and leave marks, it could raise questions about whether the will is missing any parts or amendments.

At Russell & Russell, we specialise in will writing. We’re accredited to the Law Society Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme, which sets the benchmark for best practice and transparency in setting up wills and estate planning. All the solicitors in the wills and probate department are qualified members of Solicitors for the Elderly.

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GARDEN | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

Create a window in a boundary wall

NEW YEAR, NEW LOOK Gardening writer Julia Heaton looks at ways of making the most of your outdoor space in 2020.

It’s a new year. Time to start afresh in the garden and turn those ideas you’ve been dreaming about over winter into reality. Whether a major transformation or simply disguising an ugly drain cover, making plans and acting on them is exciting and rejuvenating for

you and your outdoor space. One of the best moves I made last year was to give my wooden panel fencing a facelift. The dark protective coating had done its job but really made the garden feel much smaller and enclosed than it needed to be. Admittedly the lighter paint finish I chose required a few coats to mask what was underneath but the difference it made justified all the hard work – not only has the fencing receded from view but the paler backdrop really sets off plants growing against it.

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Here’s a few more ideas to give your outdoor space a lift in 2020.

Borrow the view Is there a view or attractive feature beyond your garden that you could focus the eye on to make your plot feel bigger than it actually is? It could be a church spire, a group of trees or perhaps some hills on the horizon. Trimming an opening in a hedge will frame the scene and draw the eye to what lies outside as will creating a ‘window’ in a boundary wall. Some rustic screening or trellising with an archway in it can have the same effect. Alternatively, use a simple pair of trees in pots or two attractive tall urns either side of a feature to direct attention to it.

Grow wild Many modern flowers offer wildlife little or no nectar or have such large and intricate flower heads that insects can’t find a way inside to reach it. Provide a helping hand by planting a native wildflower patch that will offer food, in the form of pollen, seeds, fruits, nectar and foliage to feast on, as well as shelter and nesting sites. Go for plants like common knapweed (Centaurea nigra) and oxeye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgar).

Field scabious (Knautia arvensis) has lovely lilac flowers, shaped like a pin cushion on tall upright stems and flowers between July

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GARDEN | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

Take it easy

Add water Tap into the relaxing sound of running water. These days we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to designs and size of water features. From traditional ponds with built in electrics for larger plots to solar fountains for smaller ones, water adds an extra dimension to your outdoor space and also encourages wildlife. Make it a focal point or use it in amongst planting or a quiet corner for added interest. A still water feature, hidden from view ready to be discovered, is effective too as it provides an element of surprise.

and September. For scent try chamomile with its apple-like aroma in June to August.

Wildflowers are not only easy to grow but fairly pest resistant too.

Take it easy Having a gorgeous garden doesn’t mean you have to be a slave to it. Keep things low maintenance by growing plants that are reliable, easy to care for and offer a long flowering season. Evergreen shrubs like viburnums, mahonia and camellias have attractive flowers, provide year-round interest and need little pruning. And don’t forget bulbs will come back year after year. In spring snowdrops (galanthus) look wonderful planted in drifts under trees or brightening up bare space between border shrubs. Crocuses inject much needed colour at this time too. Choose perennials like Geranium ‘Rozanne’ that just need deadheading to encourage more flowers and go for trees like acers that will add height but need little to no pruning.

Devise a plan Grab a diary or calendar in the new year sales or programme your phone to remind you about jobs, like pruning and sowing, that need to be done at a particular time. If it’s major design work you’re considering then don’t underestimate the importance of planning before digging. It’ll save time and stop you from making costly mistakes

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when you’re tempted to buy at the garden centre. Knowledge is key so get to know everything about your plot from soil type to which areas are in sun and shade. Are there large trees that will affect plant growth or structures, like a bin store, that you’d like to disguise. Know what you want to use your garden for and how much time and resources you can devote to it.

Get the seasons covered Whatever the season you can never predict the weather. A veranda or gazebo will take all the guesswork out of the equation, leaving you free to entertain outdoors whenever you want or just relax and enjoy the garden year-round under cover from rain or full-on sun. Seek out designs like those offered by & urbandecorbury.co.uk, who provide bespoke aluminium framed options that not only fit against a structural wall but include a choice of polycarbonate or glass roofing, all in a range of sizes and colours. Price-wise you can be looking at under £4,000 for a fitted 3m x 3m glass roofed veranda.

Love your lawn If you don’t have time to do anything else then the quickest and best way of giving your garden a lift is to make sure lawn edges are looking neat and tidy. It’s amazing what a difference a trim can make. Well-defined edges against paving show you care and look really stylish. Do it at least once every other cut using long-handled edging shears or a special half-moon edging iron. A powered nylon-line trimmer will make quick work of a larger lawn.

Think outside the border Don’t confine plants to borders and patio pots. Create extra space for them to grow in by lifting slabs and planting up the gaps with tough rock plants, low growing herbs and succulents. If you’ve got a large expanse of patio that you want to keep for entertaining, it’s a simple way of softening the look of it and makes the space much more inviting and individual. In the same way see a broken slab as a planting opportunity rather than an eyesore. Choose drought tolerant types that are happy with limited root space like Thymus serpyllum, houseleeks and aubretia.

Less hard landscaping is good for the environment too.

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GARDEN | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

guide party guests along a garden path or to make an alfresco dining table glow.

Going for one colour type – either a warm or cool white – will help unify the scheme.

Make your garden glow Experiment with mains powered lighting, solar and battery-operated lights to emphasise the best features of your garden and turn it into a useable space after dark. When angled correctly spotlights will help show off a specimen plant or sculpture or the beautiful peeling bark of trees like that of Tibetan cherry. At the other end of the spectrum the portability of battery-operated lanterns makes them ideal for special events – use them to

Create a stylish office Exchange the rush of your daily commute for a stroll across the lawn. Having a dedicated space for work or hobbies, where you can spread out rather than be confined to a corner of a spare room, is life-changing. And the beauty is that you get to look out onto your garden every day. Make it an inviting space year-round by choosing designs made from energy efficient structured insulated panels, which are also tougher than timber-framed buildings. Look for a professional firm working with these materials who can provide a free survey and advice on any planning restrictions.

SGARDEN UMMERSEAT CENTRE Spring Colour Scent of Spring Fill your garden with the sweet scent of Spring with a selection of shrubs. Winter Box (Sarcococca confusa) is a great small evergreen shrub for a shady spot.

Witch hazel (Hamamelis) is a colourful large shrub or small tree, with yellow, orange or red scented flowers and makes a fantastic centre piece. Arrowwood (Viburnum bodnatense ‘Dawn’) can either be grown as a large shrub or as a wall shrub and has light pink scented flowers in Autumn and Spring.

Colour your containers and borders This time of year, it is easy to add instant colour to your tired pots or borders, by planting Hellebores, heathers and Winter bedding plants, such as primrose, pansy and bellis.

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NEW TO BURY… – dining tables, dining chairs, sideboards, bedroom – beds, mattresses, bedside tables, wardrobes, chest of drawer, and accessories including pictures, mirrors, and lighting, you will be spoilt for chose!

Every visit is different…

The beauty of shopping at Brand Interiors is that no two visits are ever the same. Nearly every day there’s a new range or line added to ensure that as well as saving money on big-name brands, you can also keep up with the very latest trends at up to half the price you’d find elsewhere on the high street.

Brand Interiors now have 11 large showrooms situated across the north west of England, Yorkshire and the Midlands, with the latest being in Burys’ bustling town center, right next door to TK Maxx on Angouleme Retail Park. The perfect location to get all your home furniture needs (and wants).

Buy it today & take it away…

Chose the item you like and take it away with you that very day or let us arrange a hassle-free deliver. Unlike most furniture stores you wont be waiting weeks or even months to start enjoying your new purchase.

What they do is simple….

Visit Brand Interiors in Bury today…

They buy cancelled orders & end of line stock from some of the high streets most famous furniture stores and manufacturers & sell them to you at half the high-street price!!

ADDRESS: Brand Interiors, Unit 3 Angouleme Retail Park, Angouleme Way, Bury, BL9 0B.

100% Brands at half the price!

OPENING TIMES: Mon – Sat 9.00 – 18.00 Sun 11.00 – 17.00

With a large selection of furniture for the home including living room - sofas, chairs, coffee tables, book cases, dining room

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TEL: 01204 398223

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As seen on BBC2's Inside the Factory

Winter Sale Now On

Extra 20% off all sizes and all prices HUGE SAVINGS INSTORE

Buy British. The vast majority of our products are still manufactured here in the UK and Premier Bed Stores still offers FREE local delivery and set up of your new bed.

But don't take our word for it, see what some of our satisfied customers say Excellent choice of beds, excellent service and excellent advice. This is the third bed I have purchased from Premier Stores and I keep coming back. Would definitely recommend the store. Carol McKinnon HHHHH Brilliant customer service. Our second visit to Premier Stores (purchased both times).

Julie is really trustworthy, means a lot when buying such a personal item. Barry Rothwell HHHHH Superb friendly advice with no pressure to spend more than required.

Delivery on time. Angela Lomax HHHHH Everything done as promised. This independent family firm is deserving of support.

The service provided by them is as good today as it was when we first dealt with them in 1993. Graham Wilkes HHHHH

Rise & Recline Centre

Independent Family Business Est. 1986

T: 01204 363493 E:premierbedstores@gmail.com

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www.premierbedstores.com

CAR PARK

DEANSGATE SLATERS

MARKET PLACE

WE ARE HERE

KNOWSLEY STREET

PremierStores Bed, Sofa-Bed and

Premier Bed Stores Queens Buildings Central Street, (Off Deansgate) Bolton BL1 2AB

VICTORIA HALL

Open: Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm Sunday | 12pm-4pm

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ADAPTING 2020 IDEAS TO BRIGHTEN YOUR HOME

Before you start any changes – even to buying major new items of furniture – it’s worth taking a holistic look at your home.

Start where a visitor would with the ENTRANCE. This should be a focal point so why not choose a colourful front door?

Flank it with tall planters, a big quality doormat (well worth the investment) and luxury lighting overhead for a big welcome.

De-clutter areas like this as much as possible: stow coats, umbrellas and shoes away so they don’t detract from this welcoming space. Getting rid of boxes, ugly cupboards or just piles of items in any room will really allow you to appreciate your home space and improve it.

HOME décor is very much about personal taste but we all like to feel we are keeping up with contemporary trends, don’t we?

So, our homes tend to be a blend of what we’ve always liked and what is currently available in the shops, stores and online. If something is promoted well as “this year’s trend” then we probably evaluate it.

Devising a completely new COLOUR CODE for any room – or for your whole home – can be costly and may be hit and miss if you are simply trying to match up shades. Investing in a colour wheel can help. These are available online or in the shops and show how various shades complement and enhance each other.

Ditch dated FURNITURE. If your old sofa in your living room makes you wince every time you look at it, invest in something new – or just new to you.

The same for LIGHTING throughout the home. Nothing detracts from anywhere more than poor or old-fashioned lighting.

New ones aren’t necessarily expensive but they can bring a room alive!

In other words, we look at whether it’s right for us and whether or not we feel we can comfortably live with it.

However, style is very subjective and it’s always useful to know what is a New Year will bring to the market. For 2020, there are plenty of new ideas to appeal – and if you haven’t the finances for expensive items or makeovers, there are always ways to adapt them to your budget.

The good news in 2020 is that there are plenty of styles to choose from, and plenty of shortcuts to take to achieve them.

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Opt for CLASSIC interiors that don’t just pander to the latest fads but offer a minimalist palette that gives a high-end feel.

Abstracts are going to be major force in the interior design world this season. Work with bold geometrics, hand-drawn sketches and blocks of colour around the home in décor that expresses your personality.

If you don’t think that this trend will fit entirely with your decor, try a taster with cushion covers in one room or a sketch you like in a quirky frame you might pick up in a charity shop.

Stripped back style will continue from 2019 as a popular trend this year to give a happy, chilled-out space for relaxing and regenerating.

The new neutral colours are warming and calm to offer understated style with unfussy pieces. So take a serious look at that shelf of knickknacks and decide whether you really want to look at them for another year!

There is a shift away from cool grey with warmer neutrals like oatmeal and natural buff and beige to the fore. Natural pigments are also likely to be popular this year.

Layer up comforting CUSHIONS, throws, knits and faux furs to ensure any space is more inviting and cosy. The Winter is the ideal time for this look as you feel instant warmth here, however cold outside, and then this space is still fashionable for Spring.

TEXTURES are big in 2020 – whether that’s a rich velvet, handsome leather or a warm wood. Go for furniture with rounded curves and fluid shapes to ensure a pleasant flow and use them centre-stage as a feature. Or go for a plush statement sofa to anchor your interior design theme around. Accessories need to be tactile, whether in natural wood, weaves or sculptured forms.

Oriental prints are still popular for walls and echoed in soft furnishings. Keep the colour palettes soft though with that feeling of wellbeing and mindfulness coming through. After all, your home is a place where you want to feel good.

Keep NATURAL LIGHT in mind wherever you are around the home but especially in the living room and kitchen. Look where it falls and see how the sun moves around your home.

This will affect how the colours you use are perceived and can help you divide up your space for the various activities you want – watching TV, reading, socialising and relaxing.

Create SOCIABLE SPACES where people can actually talk to each other happily. Two sofas facing each other, for example, offer a sociable space but keep the room scale in mind. You don’t want this to dominate or to look lost in a room.

Have statement walls in contrasting colours to more neutral areas to make them stand out. And take a proper look at all your flooring.

Does it enhance the room? Is it in a matching style or completely

at odds? Does it offer flow from one room to the next? Is it comfortable?

There are lots of reasonably priced floorings to be had, especially in natural woods, that provide a complete change for any room.

Invest in cosy rugs if you feel this is too cold a look but make sure they are the right size and don’t upset the proportions of the room.

Bear in mind though, that wood’s warm tones can easily provide an impressive backdrop for furniture and fittings.

BEAUTIFUL BLINDS DESIGNED FOR YOUR HOME

By experts with over 60 years joint experience

CURTAINS can bring a fresh design feel to any room but you may feel in need of a change to BLINDS. The latest looks are created to complement the contemporary home interior styles and well worth investigating.

Benchmark Blinds of Bolton have a large selection of designs and boast over 60 years experience in the industry. Expert fitting and advice compliments the service that they offer.

Updating INTERIOR DOORS is a simple way to give a modern look to the whole property.

Dated BATHROOM accessories do the same here and don’t cost a fortune; new soft white towels and a few imaginative accessories will brighten the look here.

Invent Bathrooms are a large bathroom shop in Bolton run by a small friendly team. They provide bathroom fittings, accessories and a complete design service. If you are looking for bathrooms in Bolton, then they can take your ideas and bring your project to life. They have a 2 floor bathroom showroom at their store on Manchester Road, Bolton.

Why Go to a Bathroom Showroom?

In this age of the internet, they find there are still solid reasons for someone looking for a bathroom to visit a bathroom showroom such as theirs in Bolton. How else could you sit in the bath, stand in the shower, or work out whether you really have enough space on the basin for all your essentials?

Apart from showcasing the products, a showroom is a great setting for discussing the plans for your dream bathroom with specialists in bathroom design. Sure, Bob the plumber knows which bits of pipe go where, or how to make his job easier by telling you where he wants to fit things, but if you take all his advice you may not get the transformation you are looking for. If you only get a result that is half as good as you could have had, will the investment in the project have been worth it?

The same applies to BEDROOMS. The latest calming colours and rich textures work well in here and promote deep sleep.So get rid of any clashing colours, buy a dimmer switch and prepare to enjoy your home for another year.

All our blinds are made to measure here in the UK and installed by highly experienced installers.

We can offer a solution for all shading and privacy issues including motorised blinds and tracks, external blinds, window films and Plantation shutters.

We have no false discounts or silly offers just good products and straight forward honest customer service.

We specialise in:

• Shutters • Wood • Roller • Vision • Anti allergy blinds • Motorised • External • Office Blinds

And much more, with the latest fabrics and colours!

Visit our showroom 176 St George’s Road, Bolton BL1 2NZ

T: 01204 292087

www.benchmarkblinds.co.uk

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TRADITIONAL & CONTEMPORARY STOVES

IDEAS TO MAKE A SMALL HOME MODERN If you have a small home that you want to make super stylish, don't think that your limited floor space has to be a factor. Interior designers are constantly turning petite homes into paradigms of contemporary style and chic, so we've taken a look at how they do it in order to share the secrets with you.

From hallways to bedrooms, we've got tips for every room in your home so, if you're ready to plan a modern overhaul, let's see how the professionals do it.

Draw up a scale plan before you start You need to know exactly what space you have to work with so sketch out every room to show the shape and size before you plan or buy anything.

Consider using earth tones More pared back and neutral earth tones have a knack for making small spaces seem much bigger and they always look contemporary.

Use mirrors and art to good effect We all know that a large mirror will add to the perceived size of a small room, but also add some art to up your modern home furnishing game.

Together, mirrors and art are an auspicious pair!

We are an independent retailer of wood burning and multi fuel stoves Every customers needs are different from the next but all the customers we have worked for, have commented what a difference our ‘one stop shop’ makes not having to go through various tradesmen and companies.

Meaning you get that special one to one working relationship not only with the people fitting the stove but with the same people you have purchased the stove from.

Choose punchy accent colours If you want to add in some colour to your modern masterpiece of a home, choose bright, vivid shades that will draw the eye. If people are looking at a yellow chair, they won't be calculating the square meterage of the room!

Think about the dining room So often forgotten about, your dining room needs to be given serious thought.

Choose a dining set that won't swallow up too much room but will account for as many guests as you expect to have at any one time.

And perhaps consider knocking a wall out to open plan things a little more!

Make a splash with your hallway In a small home every space counts towards making a good impression and, as the first point of contact, your hallway needs to be exemplar.

This is a good location for some extra art, mirrors and definitely some flowers!

Don't overlook your kitchen A vital part of any home, your kitchen naturally wants to be modern and cutting edge! Brushed metal appliances and industrial tones work well to create a contemporary and functional look.

T: 01706 822208 W: www.ramsbottomstoves.co.uk Opening Times Mon 10am - 3pm Tues 10am - 3pm

Wed 10am - 5pm Thurs 10am - 3pm

Fri 10am - 4pm Sat 10am - 4pm

Sun BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

12 Bolton Street, Ramsbottom, Bury, Lancashire, BL0 9HX

A terrace will add extra room If you have a balcony or some outdoor space, a well thought out terrace will serve as an extra gathering spot and be a wonderful way to put your stamp on another 'room'.

Your bedroom should be fairly minimal You only need to rest in your bedroom so why clutter the space with extraneous furniture and televisions? Keep it simple, pared back and sparse for a modern and functional aesthetic.

Bathrooms can take some adventurous design ideas A small bathroom doesn't have to be a boring one, especially if you're trying to capture a modern aesthetic. Vibrant tiles and polished concrete are the best of friends and we think you'll agree they look amazing here!

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MONEY SAVING TIPS FOR 2020 taking up an alternative sport or improvising their own exercise routines at home.

Ditch contactless cards: Having up to £30 of impulse purchases available at the mere tap of plastic is not healthy for Brits’ bank balances.

Penny pinching Brits have been urged to keep their receipts and ditch contactless cards if they want to watch their wallets and save money in 2020.

Create a budget: Taking a step back to create a budget will open your eyes to where all your money has, is and will be spent, and make it straightforward to cut out unnecessary outgoings in the future; make spreadsheets your new best friend.

Leave the gym: Fitness fans can reduce the strain of gym memberships on their personal finances by going for a run on the streets,

Try sticking to cold hard cash for small purchases like the good old days – this will allow you to keep better track of personal finances and make it easier to assess if you’re getting good value items for the money being physically handed over.

Get smart to stay warm: Save on heating costs by keeping an extra jumper on at home, plugging any little gaps around the house to draft-proof, closing curtains to hold warmth indoors, moving furniture to unblock radiators and investing in a cost rug or hot water bottle.

Keep receipts: Hanging on to receipts helps with week to week budgeting and could mean you avoid shelling out for costly replacements if something needs to be returned or replaced whilst it’s still under warranty.

Start a loose change jar: Instead of letting coppers collect dust down the back of the sofa, place an empty jar in the kitchen for all of the family to throw their 1p, 2p and 5p coins into.

Higher value change can be included too of course, and the pot will eventually be able to fund some spending that won’t come out of your monthly income.

Cut electrical and water bills: To fight rising utilities prices, stop leaving electrical gadgets on standby when they’re not in use and always turn off the lights in unoccupied rooms.

Water usage and costs can also be reduced by taking a quick shower instead of a long bath and using sink or cooking water to quench plants’ thirst.

Pass on takeaway coffee: Skip grabbing a coffee on the way into work every morning and instead make one at home in a flash or reusable cup to save money on a daily basis.

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At lunch time, have one before leaving the office or upon returning, rather than a brew from a chain on the go.

Walk, walk, walk: Vehicles are expensive to own, fuel and maintain, whilst most public transport is not as affordable as it used to be.

So to save significant money in the new year, ditch the pricey bus, car or train whenever possible, in favour of travelling on foot – which is free.

If it’s within a mile or two, try walking to work, the shops, friends or family and any activities; going for a leisurely stroll could become a cheap alternative hobby in itself, too.

Look for yellow stickers: When in the supermarket, hunt for items that have been marked with a yellow sticker due to their use by or best before date, or the condition of packaging.

Eagle-eyed Brits could grab up to 50% off on some of their favourite foods, with some retailers known to up the discount to as high as 90% off if the items remain unsold near to closing time.

Even if you can’t eat it all immediately, lots of produce is still perfectly edible beyond their best before date or suitable to be frozen for use at a later date.

Make your own lunch: Even seemingly good value meal deals can cost at least £3 a day; as a cheaper alternative, make sandwiches and snack at home or take last night’s leftovers to work.

Sell unused items: Post items that have never been opened or aren’t used regularly anymore onto popular resale apps, website or social media One person’s junk is another person’s treasure, so you could be sitting on a small fortune; great items to consider include

FIRESIDE STUDIO NEWLY REFURBISHED SHOWROOM

GREAT CHOICE • GREAT PRICES

clothing, collectibles, entertainment items (such as DVDs, CDs and Vinyls) and technology or gadgets.

Consider going vegan: In addition to the ethical and moral considerations, meat and fish prices have risen significantly in recent years, so even adopting part-time veganism or vegetarianism – such as meat free Mondays – could benefit Brits’ bank balances, as well as their health.

Find online discounts: It’s simply sensible to seek out the best value for money, so wisely shop around online like you would in person by using voucher codes and exclusive offers from a site such as PromotionalCodes.org.uk Choose a staycation: Avoid expensive flights and other costs that could mount up, such as health insurance, data roaming charges and common tourist attractions, by holidaying at home – consider a caravan or camping if UK hotels are still out of budget.

Swap takeaways for self-made: Rather than shelling out shedloads of cash on takeaways, prepare some of your favourite international cuisines yourself at home with fresh ingredients.

This makes for a much cheaper meal, as well as healthier, more nutritious food and could even be a romantic gesture to your partner.

Entertain at home: A monthly movie night is a great family activity that will save significant cash over regular trips to the cinema.

For adult friends, invite them round to your house for drinks and nibbles instead of going to a pricey bar; household versions of karaoke or quizzes will keep the laughs rolling.

FIREPLACES • FIRES & STOVES ACCESSORIES • HOME FRAGRANCE 311 Tonge Moor Road, Bolton, BL2 2JR

SALE NOW ON! Opening times Monday 10am - 5pm Tuesday - Closed Wednesday 10am - 5pm Thursday 10am - 6pm

Friday 10am - 5pm Saturday 10am 4pm Sunday - Closed

Tel: 01204 456054 Email: info@firesidestudio.co.uk 36

Prepare for shopping: Always go to the shops with reusable bags to swerve the rising surcharges, write a shopping list and stick to it to avoid purchasing unnecessary duplicate items and shrewdly research if the offers in-store are actually giving you a good deal or not.

Go Freeview: TV enthusiasts can get most of their favourite shows for free on Freeview, so it’s time for budgeting Brits to cut out the costs of cable.

Set savings goals: One of the best ways to save money is to visualise what you are saving for. If you need motivation, set savings targets along with a timeline to make it easier to reach your goals.

SIMPSON FURNITURE

Lancashire’s largest selection of top quality, British made Rise and Recline Chairs Stockists of stunning Italian and British made suites, along with a wide range of unique and quirky accessories

Free delivery within 30 miles of store Removal of existing suite if required for a nominal fee Excellent customer satisfaction and service A warm welcome guaranteed OPEN TIMES: 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday

Showroom: 7 Church Place Hartley Street, Heywood OL10 1LT

TEL: 01706 368628

Bury Market Hall, 1 Murray Road, Bury BL9 OBJ

www.simpsonfurnitureuk.com

Celebrate

JANUARY SALE

25% DISCOUNT OFF FOOD at the Cherry MONDAY TO THURSDAY INTree JANUARY 2020 VALENTINES SPECIAL WEEK 10TH - 16TH FEBRUARY Live vocalist ‘Peter Hill’ performing on the Friday evening (14th)

Full main menu available... plus Valentine’s sharing specials The

Cherry Tree

at Blackrod

Please note that a deposit of £10 per person shall be required for Friday 14th February

To reserve your table or for more information call 01257 481234

The Cherry Tree | Chorley Road | Blackrod | Bolton | BL6 5LA

www.cherrytreeblackrod.co.uk

OFFER AVAILABLE MONDAY - THURSDAY ONLY - NOT TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER (INCLUDING KEYRINGS) NO CASH ALTERNATIVE GIVEN - OFFER AVAILABLE ON MAIN MENU ONLY - SET MENUS AND KIDS MENU NOT INCLUDED. GIFT VOUCHERS CANNOT BE USED WITH THIS OFFER. MAXIMUM TABLE SIZE OF 6 PEOPLE TO REEDEEM OFFER.

Celebrate

at the Cherry Tree VALENTINES SPECIAL WEEK 10TH - 16TH FEBRUARY Live vocalist ‘Peter Hill’ performing on the Friday evening (14th)

Full main menu available... plus Valentine’s sharing specials The

Cherry Tree

at Blackrod

Please note that a deposit of £10 per person shall be required for Friday 14th February

To reserve your table or for more information call 01257 481234

The Cherry Tree | Chorley Road | Blackrod | Bolton | BL6 5LA

www.cherrytreeblackrod.co.uk

MOTORING

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STEVE HOWARTH'S TEST DRIVE modes including track and drag! Thankfully Ford have also beefed up the brakes with huge Brembo discs and callipers and added a limited-slip diff.

There are new LED headlamps and rear lights, a new bonnet with extra air scoops and front splitter with more efficient underbody airflow.

MUSTANG NOW for those of my generation, and I suspect many others, the coolest guy ever has to be one Steve McQueen.

Film star, racing driver and all round legend – he really had it all. At the height of his fame in 1968 Mr McQ starred in an equally iconic movie and must see for all petrol heads, Bullitt.

In this detective drama our hero drove a car that has become just as legendary – the Ford Mustang GT Fastback – and as a tribute on the 50th anniversary of the film Ford last year released their latest special edition Bullitt Mustang.

In the same Highland Green and with Bullitt badging, special wheels plus an extra few horses under the bonnet (sorry hood) this limited edition motor (only 400 were initially imported here into the UK and all sold out within days) was mine for just a week and what a week it was.

The key scene in the film is an epic car chase around the streets of San Francisco with our hero and his mighty Mustang against a pair of shotgun-toting baddies in a black Dodge Charger R/T. When the Mustang first appeared in 1964, it was the fastest-selling model in the world - a record it still holds.

Now I am not saying any of the great man’s cool factor rubbed off on yours truly but when I went to the Classic Car Show at Birmingham’s huge NEC heads were definitely turning – including the guy on the M6 Toll booths who said it would take 10 minutes for me to get through because

he wanted to stand back and admire the magnificent motor.

Ford introduced their latest Mustang in the spring of 2015 and in the following three years sold over 40,000 on our side of the pond – helped greatly in the UK by a RHD version being available for the first time.

Mustang sales figures were also boosted by an upgraded version which first appeared last year with sharper styling, a better interior, extra performance, a new choice of gearboxes, revised and retuned suspension and a list of added active safety and convenience features.

The many updates included adaptive cruise control, smartphone mirroring and 10-speed automatic gearbox. Ford has also added a new ‘dual-fuel’ direct indirect injection system to the V8 engine and the Bullitt, which like Mr McQ’s car is a manual (it even has the cue ball gear knob), gets the induction system of the Mustang Shelby GT350 and an active exhaust which makes the most wonderful noise.

Retuned springs and anti-roll bars, a stiffened rear sub frame, reworked power steering and retuned stability control also feature on all 2018 Mustangs with adaptive dampers an option on top spec examples and adaptive steering and various drive

On the inside, the cabin has been given a makeover with new materials and all-digital instruments, but the bigger changes are going on under the skin with that 10-speed auto box and power from the V8 engine upped to 444bhp.

There’s also a new Magneride damper option for the suspension and a collision avoidance braking system with pedestrian detection, along with active lane keeping steering and adaptive cruise control.

Inside chunky Recaro sports seats hold you firmly in place but are also comfortable over long-distance drives. Ford’s Sync3 infotainment system is standard on all Mustangs and the Bullitt also has a 1000W premium audio system, not that you will be using it as the sound from those four exhaust pipes is simply magnificent.

The Mustang Bullitt costs around £48,000 here in the UK, if you can find one as they sell out as soon as Ford send more.

However, Ford dealers are currently offering zero per cent finance on the 2.3-litre 286bhp Ecoboost version (which can be had for around £8k less) and the standard 5-litre GT (from £43,645). Both the 2.3 and 5.0 litre can also be had in convertible form.

That’s a lot of bang for your buck as the Yanks would say - the Bullitt, despite its size, will hit 60 in a shade over five seconds and easily left my mate’s Focus RS Turbo in its wake during the NEC road trip. Top speed is a very illegal 163mph.

Where you will have to dig deep is on the garage forecourt as I managed only mid 20s MPG-wise from that glorious V8 during the trip, although Ford say the Ecoboost will return over 35mpg.

For more information see www.ford.co.uk

For all the latest car tests go to www.50plusmagazine.co.uk/ motors

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F O R D M U S TA N G AT BRISTOL STREET MOTORS

T E S T D R I V E T O D AY Bolton

54-56 Higher Bridge Street, Bolton, Lancashire BL1 2HQ

CALL 0330 108 0138

www.bristolstreet.co.uk/ford/

NEW FORD PUMA COMING 2020

NEW FORD PUMA COMING 2020

Bolton

54-56 Higher Bridge Street, Bolton, Lancashire BL1 2HQ

CALL 0330 108 0138

www.bristolstreet.co.uk/ford/

What’s On Guide...

Seven Star Management present

One of the greatest and most charismatic jockeys of all-time

9th February Frankie Dettori

FRANKIE DETTORI

29th February Wrestling

with special guest PETER BURRELL

The winner of over 3,000 races hosts an evening of humour, anecdotes and chat in his own inimitable style

Including a question and answer session

14th February The Foundations 15th February Sir Michael Parkinson

7th March Jack (Off) and the Beanstalk

8th March The Fortunate Sons

16th February Legends Of Country

22nd February

Cirque Enfant

20th March Forbidden Nights

For more info, visit; www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk For tickets, visit; www.quaytickets.com/boltonalberthalls or call 0843 2080500 42

LEISURE

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

WHAT'S ON A GUIDE TO WHAT'S HAPPENING IN YOUR REGION ...

FRIDAYS 2:00PM - 3:00PM COMPUTER MENTORING ONE TO ONE SESSIONS

Join us at Westhoughton Library for free computer mentoring sessions for all abilities every Friday from 10am to 11am and 11am to 12noon. Please contact Westhoughton Library to book an appointment.

Westhoughton Library Westhoughton BL5 3AU Phone: 01942 634640

FRIDAYS 10AM - 12 NOON WALKING SPORTS & LUNCH

MONDAYS 1:00PM - 3:00PM SCRABBLE

TUESDAYS 1:00PM - 3:00PM KNIT AND GET FIT

Come and join in our free, friendly and informal scrabble group every Monday at Westhoughton Library from 1pm - 3pm. No need to book, just pop by.

‘Knit and Get Fit’ is a new weekly free session for women to come along and do some knitting every Tuesday, 1pm to 3pm. In addition join in Zumba Gold on the second Tuesday of the month 2.15pm to 3pm and Tai Chi on the fourth Tuesday of the month 1.30pm to 2.30pm.

Come to knit, get fit and make new friends!

Please note that this is a women only session. No booking required.

Westhoughton Library Westhoughton BL5 3AU Phone: 01942 634640

MONDAYS 11AM TO 12PM FIT 'N' 50+

Functional fitness moves to keep your body moving to increase fitness, flexibility, mobility, balance and strength. Suitable for everyone over 50 who wants to work out in a friendly and fun atmosphere where you can work at your own level. No need to book, just turn up.

Contact name Julie Porter.

Ramsbottom Civic Hall, Market Place, Ramsbottom BL0 9HT Contact phone0161 253 7729

TUESDAYS 1:00PM - 3:00PM TUESDAY CRAFT GROUP

Get crafty and make new friends every Tuesday afternoon at Westhoughton Library at our weekly craft group. All abilities and crafts welcome. Light refreshments served. £1 costs to cover materials and refreshments no need to book.

Westhoughton Library Westhoughton BL5 3AU Phone: 01942 634640

High Street Library High Street, Bolton BL3 6SZ Phone: 01204 332358

SECOND THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH 6:00PM - 7:00PM EVENING READING GROUP

Join in our informal evening reading group on the second Thursday of every month.

Free, no need to book.

Harwood Library Gate Fold, Harwood BL2 3HN Phone: 01204 332340

THURSDAYS 10AM UNTIL 12.30PM LINE DANCING

Line dancing is a unique form of exercise because it provides the heart-healthy benefits of an aerobic exercise while also allowing you to engage in a social activity.

Suitable for beginners.

Longfield Suite, Longfield Centre, Prestwich, Manchester M25 1AY Ruth Pearl 07779 498940

It's not about the pace you play it, it's the skill you play with! Our walking sports are a great way to have fun, keeping you mind & body healthy and active, whist making new friends. Our walking sports session runs every friday, 10am - 12noon, on our indoor courts, at a price of £3.00.

The 2 hours are split: 10am - 11am table tennis, badmninton & short court tennis / 11am - 12noon walking netball *Walking sports & Lunch: £6.00 (Luncheon 12noon - 1pm - a hot meal and a hot drink USN Bolton Arena Arena Approach, Horwich BL6 6LB 01204 488106

TUESDAY AT 12.00PM. LUNCH CLUB FOR OVER 60’S

A weekly Lunch Club for the Over 60’s takes place every Tuesday at 12.00 pm.

THURSDAY AT 2.00PM GENTLE YOGA FOR OVER 50S

Gentle yoga for over 50s and beginners. £6 per class.

THURSDAY 6-7PM SING FOR FUN THURSDAY AFTERNOON BETWEEN 1.30 AND 3.30 THURSDAY AFTERNOON CRAFT

Meet in the Café.

WEDNESDAY AFTERNOONS FROM 1.30PM – 4.30PM BRIDGE AT THE BARLOW The Barlow, 216 Bolton Road,Turton BOLTON BL7 0AP 01204 852216

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9TH FEBRUARY ANTON & ERIN… DANCE THOSE MAGICAL MOVIES

working to live and give Opening Times: Monday-Friday 8.30am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 4pm

Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag, the nation’s favourite ballroom couple announce a brand new show for 2020 as they ‘Dance Those Magical Movies’ on a major tour of UK and Ireland.

Bridgewater Hall, Lower Mosley Street, Manchester M2 3WS antonanderinlive.co.uk

16TH FEB 2020 AND 22ND MARCH PEEL TOWER OPEN DAYS

Visit our Café for HOMEMADE SOUPS, SNACKS and DELICIOUS CAKES

Peel Tower was one of two monuments erected in the memory of Sir Robert Peel, Prime Minister of Britain 1841-1846, founder of the modern Police Force and repealer of the Corn Laws. He was born in Bury in 1788, the other monument can be found in Market Place in the centre of Bury.

The Tower cost £1,000 to erect and the money was raised through public appeal.

Today the Tower offers wonderful views of the surrounding countryside, after climbing the staircase to the top you can sometimes see as far as Blackpool and Wales. Volunteers open the Tower at least once a month and a small charge made for entry. * When the flag flies, usually 11am till 4.30pm (subject to change) Peel Tower Holcombe Hill, Ramsbottom Tel: 0161 253 5111

FRI 6TH MARCH 7:30 PM A SPOONFUL OF JULIE: A TRIBUTE TO JULIE ANDREWS

Soprano Nicola Mills sings the songs of the practically perfect Dame Julie Andrews in this memorable tribute.

The Met, Market Street, Bury BL9 0BW Box office 0161 761 2216 www.themet.org.uk

9TH AND 10TH MAY AND 24TH AND 25TH MAY 10.00 AM - 4.00 PM MAY BANK HOLIDAY STEAMINGS AT BOLTON STEAM MUSEUM.

DERBY BARRACKS, FLETCHER STREET, BOLTON BL3 6NF www.emmaus-bolton.org.uk info@emmausbolton.org.uk TO DONATE YOUR GOODS AND ARRANGE A FREE COLLECTION CALL 01204 398056

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Our volunteers have rescued and restored 30 old stationary steam engines, including 6 built in Bolton - some of the engines which once powered the cotton mills and woollen mills of the North of England.

Our oldest engine is now 180 years old, and most engines are well over 100 years old. Some of our engines are now unique - the only one of its kind to survive anywhere in the world!

Bolton Steam Museum, Mornington Rd Bolton BL1 4EU Tel. 01204 846490 www.nmes.org

THURS 12TH MARCH ELVIS COSTELLO

Regular presents Elvis Costello & The Imposters Following his 1977 debut album, My Aim Is True, Elvis Costello enjoyed an unbroken run of U. K. chart success for years.

The Palace Theatre 97 Oxford St, Manchester M1 6FT www.manchestertheatres.com

SAT 14TH MARCH 7:30 PM THE LANCASHIRE HOTPOTS: BEERHEMIAN RHAPSODY TOUR

The kings of musical comedy are back to bring you another night of madcap music and laughs!

The Met, Market Street, Bury BL9 0BW Box office 0161 761 2216 www.themet.org.uk

SAT 14TH MARCH 8:00 PM ELLES BAILEY

Bristol based blues singer-songwriter Elles Bailey returns to The Met. The Met, Market Street, Bury BL9 0BW Box office 0161 761 2216 www.themet.org.uk

26TH MARCH - 30 MAY THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

The Brilliant Original production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera is embarking on a major UK and Ireland tour. Now in its 33rd phenomenal year in the West End, The Phantom of the Opera is widely considered one of the most beautiful and spectacular productions in history.

The Palace Theatre 97 Oxford St, Manchester M1 6FT www.manchestertheatres.com

SAT 30TH MAY ONE NIGHT OF ELVIS: LEE 'MEMPHIS' KING

Europe’s most successful Elvis Presley tribute artist, recreates the essence of the King.

Manchester Operal House www.manchestertheatres.com

SAT 16TH MAY AT 7.30PM BURY CHORAL SOCIETY GLORIOUS RHYTHM

Ramirez Misa Criolla Lambert Rio Grande Hallfter Three Epitaphs with Conductor Juan Ortuño and Bury Camerata St.Margaret’s Church Prestwich, M25 2QB For tickets and more information visit www.burychoral.org or phone 0161-761-1544

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

TIPS ON HOW TO TAKE CARE OF

YOUR CLOTHES

HELEN VENABLES Managing Director www.houseofcolour.co.uk

As soon as you get home, take your dry-cleaned garments out of the plastic bag to allow the fabric to breathe freely and put the clothes on good quality hangers.

Recycle the hangers from the cleaners.

Hang your trousers full-length, from the hem if you have the vertical space, using a sturdy hanger with the little clamps.

Keep knitwear folded on shelves, never hung on hangers to avoid those horrible little stretched triangles they create.

Folding leather items will create creases and wrinkles which you should never iron or steam out!

Roll your clothes into three sausages for packing to avoid creased clothes. Lay out your tops and dresses, one inside the other, with the most crushable fabrics on the outside and roll them into a sausage. Trousers and skirts go in the second sausage. Everything else goes in the third from swimwear, sarongs and pashminas in your wow colours of course!

Turning jackets inside out will help avoid creases, but if space is limited, wear your jacket while travelling.

Don’t tumble dry your bras! Lie them flat to dry. Don’t stuff them in a drawer as bending the cups will damage them long term. Stack bras inside of each other like you see in the shops.

As one of our customers recently said ‘This market continues to thrive and you can see why. Great stalls with everything you could ever need at good prices, plus the superb meat and fish covered market. Friendly service and great people - definitely recommend.

The hub of a great little town!’

Make sure that you wash your garments as instructed on the label to preserve them for longer. Washing your coloured clothes inside-out will help maintain dark colours.

Try not to wash your clothes needlessly and reduce trips to the dry cleaners to make clothes that need dry-cleaning last longer.

Wringing your swimsuits by twisting them and tumble drying them will damage the elasticity! Lie the swimsuit flat between towels, press and roll the water out and then let it dry flat.

Address spills and stains as soon as you can – If you spill or drop liquid or food on your clothes dab with soda water or iced water immediately to make sure that the stain does not set. Dab the stain instead of rubbing it to avoid spreading the stain or damaging the surface of the fabric and before washing, spray the area with a stain pre-treatment.

Always dress after you have put on your make up and done your hair to prevent lipstick, eyeshadow and hairspray ruining your clothes.

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

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

TO SEE MORE FROM HELEN VENABLES VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 45

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The market has over 200 stalls to choose from located both indoor and outdoor which are all under cover. Customers travel for miles just to visit the famous fresh fish, meat, fruit and vegetable halls, lifestyle hall and food court seating area.

The outdoor, undercover market compliments all our halls on Bolton Market.

The Lifestyle section offers everything from furniture to flowers, bedding to broomsticks. Plus much, much, more along with a friendly service, hints and tips.

There are plenty of eateries to choose from and a food court for the more leisurely where you can sit and watch the world go by whilst eating and drinking both continental and traditional foods.

Bolton Market provides everything you need for your weekly shop and more, all at fantastic value. Fruit and vegetables can be plain or exotic, but always fresh and healthy.

The famous fish and meat market is considered to be the best and largest in the north west, offering outstanding variety, low prices and excellent quality fish, meat, eggs, poultry & frozen foods. So there is only one place to be when planning for great shopping and free family fun, Bolton Market.

How To Find Us Bolton Market Ashburner Street Bolton BL1 1TQ Tel: 01204 336825 Opening Times Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday 9am-5pm

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Contact Us: Customer Services: 01204 336825 Business Enquiries: 01204 336824 or 336823 email: bolton.markets@bolton.gov.uk If you are interested in becoming a trader at Bolton Markets call 01204 336825

THE NORTH WEST’S

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THE NORTH WEST’S

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Ashburner Street Bolton BL1 1TJ Open : Every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 9am to 5pm.

Bolton's award winning market is a great day out and has everything you need for a freshly prepared meal.

With everything under one roof at good prices and from all local businesses.

Contact: 01204 336825

Email: bolton.markets@bolton.gov.uk www.bolton.gov.uk

@ Bolton Markets

Bolton Markets

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FOOD & DRINK

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Gennaro Contaldo

Italian chef and restauranteur known for his association with his British protégé Jamie Oliver and his partnership with fellow Italian chef Antonio Carluccio and their television series 'Two Greedy Italians'. Here we present recipes from his new book 'Gennaro's Pasta Perfecto'.

RIGATONI ALLA ZOZZANA This robust Roman recipe takes its name from zozza, which in Roman dialect usually means ‘dirty’, but in the case of this recipe means ‘rich’, because all sorts of ingredients are added. It’s a cross between the other classic Roman pasta dishes cacio e pepe and carbonara, and uses up all the typical leftovers, making it a substantial but extremely delicious dish.

Serves 4 300 g/101/2 oz rigatoni pasta 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 100 g/31/2 oz pancetta, finely chopped 100 g/31/2 oz Italian pork sausage, skinned and crumbled 1 egg yolk 30 g/1 oz/scant 1/2 cup grated Pecorino, plus extra for sprinkling 2 tbsp single (light) cream sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil and cook the pasta until al dente (check the instructions on your packet for cooking time).

Heat the olive oil in a frying pan (skillet) set over a medium heat, add the onion and sweat for 1 minute.

Add the pancetta and sausage meat, and sauté for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, whisk together the egg yolk, grated Pecorino and cream, along with some salt and pepper, in a small bowl.

Drain the cooked pasta, add to the pan with the pancetta and sausage meat, mix well and cook for 1 minute over a high heat. Remove from the heat and mix in the creamy mixture.

Serve immediately, with an extra sprinkling of black pepper and Pecorino.

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PEPERONI RIPIENI DI PASTA Filled vegetables are very common throughout Italy and started off as a cucina povera dish to make the veggies go further, adding whatever ingredients were available. Commonly, (bell) peppers are baked and then filled and the addition of pasta makes this dish a very different and enjoyable way to eat our favourite Italian staple.When you first roast the peppers, make sure you do not overcook them – they need to be sturdy to be filled with the pasta mixture. I have used red and yellow peppers as they are sweeter, but you could use the green variety too, if you prefer.

Serves 4-6 6 mixed (bell) peppers (yellow and red) 300 g/10 ½ oz sedanini pasta or pennette (small penne) 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling 1 garlic clove, left whole and squashed 4 anchovy fillets 20 black pitted olives 2 tsp capers 300 g/101/2 oz baby plum tomatoes, halved 10 basil leaves, roughly torn 125 g/41/2 oz mozzarella, cut into small cubes sea salt Preheat the oven to 200oC fan/220oC/425oF/gas mark 7.

Slice the tops off the peppers and scoop out the seeds inside with a spoon. Replace the tops on the peppers to resemble little hats.

Put them into a baking dish or onto a baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes, until the peppers soften but are not mushy.

Meanwhile, bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil and cook the pasta until al dente (check the instructions on your packet for cooking time).

Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over a medium heat, add the garlic and anchovies, and sweat until the anchovies have melted.

Add the olives, capers, tomatoes and basil, cover with a lid and cook over a medium–low heat for about 7 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft. Discard the garlic.

Drain the pasta and add to the tomato sauce, mixing well to combine over a high heat for a minute or so. Remove from the heat, then stir in the mozzarella.

Reduce the oven temperature to 180oC fan/200oC/400oF/gas mark 6.

Drizzle a little extra-virgin olive oil into a baking dish. Place the peppers in the dish and fill them with the pasta mixture, covering them with their little ‘hats’. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and bake in the oven for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven, leave to rest for a couple of minutes, then serve.

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working to live and give

MINESTRONE GENOVESE

Opening Times: Monday-Friday 8.30am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 4pm

MAJOR

APPLIANCES

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New and second-hand electrical items: fridges, freezers, washers, cookers, dryers, lamps ....

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This soup was originally made with fresh homegrown produce and offered to sailors docking at Genova so that they could enjoy fresh food after being away at sea.

Traditionally the vegetables were boiled and the soup was made so thick you could stand a spoon in it! If there was any left over, it was sliced and fried. My version is not so thick and I like to sweat the vegetables to obtain more flavour.That said, if your veggies are of the freshest homegrown quality, then simply boiling them will be fine.The addition of pesto gives this soup a lovely green colour, as well as the pungent flavour of basil.

Serves 4-6 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 celery stalk, finely chopped 1 large carrot, finely chopped 1 small courgette (zucchini), cut into small chunks 1 large potato, peeled and cut into small chunks 140 g/5 oz Swiss chard, finely chopped, including stalks

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DERBY BARRACKS, FLETCHER STREET, BOLTON BL3 6NF www.emmaus-bolton.org.uk info@emmausbolton.org.uk TO DONATE YOUR GOODS AND ARRANGE A FREE COLLECTION CALL 01204 398056

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2 fresh plum tomatoes, seeded and diced 1.5 litres/52 fl oz/6½ cups hot vegetable stock (bouillon) 1 x 400-g/14-oz can of borlotti beans, drained 120 g/4½ oz thick spaghetti pasta, broken into 5-cm (2-in) pieces 1 x quantity of Basil Pesto freshly ground black pepper

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat, add the onion, celery and carrot, and sweat for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the courgette, potato, Swiss chard and tomatoes, and continue to sauté for 1 minute or so. Add the stock, season with some black pepper, then cover with a lid, increase the heat and bring to the boil.

Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for about 15 minutes until the vegetables are cooked but not mushy.

Stir in the borlotti beans and cook for 2 minutes. Increase the heat and bring to the boil, then add the spaghetti pieces. Reduce the heat and simmer until the pasta is cooked al dente (check the instructions on your packet for cooking time). Remove from the heat, let rest for about 3 minutes, then stir in the pesto and serve.

LINGUINE AL CARTOCCIO CON GAMBERI E PESTO This light pasta, steam-baked with king prawns (jumbo shrimp), will surely delight your guests as they open their parcels of delicious goodness! Steam-baking is not only a feast for the eyes, but a lovely light way of cooking that locks all the flavours in. I have used ready-foiled parchment paper, but if you can’t find it, use a sheet of parchment paper inside a sheet of foil and make sure you wrap tightly so that none of the juices can escape during cooking.

Serves 4 150 ml/5 fl oz/ 2/3 cup Basil Pesto (see page 168 or use a ready-made variety) extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling 8 raw king prawns (jumbo shrimp), cleaned 125 ml/4 fl oz/½ cup white wine

sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 4 slices of lemon and a few basil leaves, to garnish Preheat the oven to 180oC fan/200oC/400oF/ gas mark 6.

Bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil and cook the pasta for half of the cooking time stated on the packet. Drain well, mix with half of the pesto sauce and set aside.

Spread 4 x foil-lined parchment paper sheets out on your work surface (foil-side down) and drizzle each with a little extra-virgin olive oil.

Divide the linguine into 4 portions and place a portion on each sheet, top each with 2 king prawns, followed by the remaining pesto and a little salt and pepper.

Drizzle white wine over each portion and a little extra-virgin olive oil.

Wrap the parcels well, place on a baking sheet and bake in the hot oven for 12 minutes.

Remove from the oven and serve each parcel on an individual plate with a slice of lemon each and a few basil leaves to garnish.

Extracted from Gennaro’s Pasta Perfecto

by Gennaro Contaldo. Photography Adriana Contaldo.

LEGAL

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You can usually borrow up to 60 per cent of the value of your property. How much can be released is dependent on your age and the value of your property. The percentage typically increases according to your age when you take out the lifetime mortgage, while some providers might offer larger sums to those with certain past or present medical conditions.

Interest rates must be fixed or, if they are variable, there must be a “cap” or upper limit which is fixed for the life of the loan.

UNLOCK THE CASH IN YOUR HOME THESE days we have to look at a variety of ways to raise cash and ensure that our future will be secure.

And one popular way for anyone over 55 to do just that is via equity release. This offers the chance to access the cash – the equity – tied up in your home. It can be as a lump sum or in several small amounts, or a combination of both.

There are two equity release options: lifetime mortgage and home reversion.

The Money Advice Service explains that a LIFETIME MORTGAGE means that you take out a mortgage secured on your property, provided it is your main residence, while retaining ownership.

You can choose to ring-fence some of the value of your property as an inheritance for your family or you can choose to make repayments or let the interest roll-up. The

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loan amount and any accrued interest is paid back when you die or when you move into long-term care.

Most people who take out equity release use a lifetime mortgage. Usually you don’t have to make any repayments while you’re alive and interest “rolls up” (unpaid interest is added to the loan). This means the debt can increase quite quickly over a period of time.

However, some lifetime mortgages do now offer the option to pay all or some of the interest. Some will let you pay off the interest and the capital. In the same way ordinary mortgages vary from lender to lender, so do lifetime mortgages.

If you’re looking at this option, it’s worth knowing that the minimum age for this is usually 55. As we’re now all living longer, the earlier you start the more this is likely to cost in the long run.

Check whether the product has a “no negative equity guarantee”. This means that, when your property is sold and agents’ and solicitors’ fees have been paid, even if the amount left is not enough to repay the outstanding loan to your provider neither you nor your estate will be liable to pay any more.

Find out if you have the right to move to another property, subject to the new property being acceptable to your product provider as continuing security for your equity release loan. Different lifetime mortgage providers might have slightly different thresholds.

Consider whether you can pay none, some or all of the interest. If you can make repayments, the mortgage will be less costly. However, with a lifetime mortgage where you can make monthly payments, the amount you can repay might be based on your income. Providers will have to check you can afford these regular payments.

Look at whether you can withdraw the equity you’re releasing in small amounts, as and when you need it, or whether you have to take it as one lump sum. The advantage of being able to take money out in smaller amounts is you only pay the interest on the amount you’ve withdrawn. If you can take smaller lump sums, check if there is a minimum amount.

HOME REVERSION involves you selling part or all of your home to a home reversion provider in return for a lump sum or regular payments. You have the right to continue living in the property until you die, rentfree, but you have to agree to maintain and insure it.

You can ring-fence a percentage of your property for later use, possibly for inheritance. The percentage you retain will always remain the same, regardless of the change in property values, unless you decide to take further cash releases. At the end of the plan, your property is sold and the sale proceeds are shared according to the remaining proportions of ownership.

You will get a lump sum or regular payments – normally between 20 per cent and 60 per cent of the market value of your home, or the part you sell.

With home reversion, it’s worth checking whether or not you can release equity in several payments or in one lump sum and the minimum age at which you can take out a home reversion plan. Some providers insist you’re at least 60 or 65 before you can apply.

You will need to know what level of maintenance you’ll be expected to carry out and how often your property will be inspected – this could be every few years.

Overall, equity release might seem like a good option if you want some extra money and don’t want to move house, but it’s worth bearing in mind that equity release can be more expensive in comparison to an ordinary mortgage.

If you release equity from your home, you might not be able to rely on your property for money you need later in your retirement – for example, to pay for long-term care.

You will also have to pay arrangement fees, depending on the plan being arranged.

For free, impartial advice on equity release and mortgages go to debt charity StepChange at www.stepchange.org or call 0800 027 4538.

Are you finding life is too short?

Equity release allows homeowners over 55 to remain in their much-loved home and release an income or lump sum from their property allowing them to enjoy life to the full.

Lorraine is our specialist Equity Release solicitor who can help you if you are considering releasing money from your home. She will guide you through the process and help you avoid any pitfalls.

For more information on Equity Relase contact Lorraine on freephone

0800 083 0815

Or by email lorraine.webb@clough-willis.co.uk

Keep in mind the percentage of the market value you will receive.This will increase the older you are when you take out the plan but might vary from provider to provider.

Check whether you have the right to remain in your property for life or until you need to move to long-term care, provided the property remains your main residence and you abide by the terms and conditions of your contract.

Again, check whether you have the right to move to another property, subject to the new property being acceptable to your product provider as continuing security for your equity release loan and whether the product has a “no negative equity guarantee”.

Bury Head Office 2 Manchester Road, Bury Lancashire, BL9 0DT. Tel: 0161 764 5266 www.clough-willis.co.uk

Little Lever Office 58 Market Street, Little Lever Bolton, BL3 1HN. Tel: 01204 709959 @BurySolicitor

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We’ll get you smiling ...

Many denture wearers suffer with poor fitting, worn out or artificial (false) looking dentures that cause the wearer to feel a lack of confidence in their dentures.

This can present itself when chewing or even by just worrying about the denture dropping during a conversation. All these are issues that Bolton Denture Centre specialise in correcting.

Bolton Denture Centre houses the only qualified CDT in Bolton, solely focusing on provide the highest quality dentures.

WHAT IS A CLINICAL DENTAL TECHNICIAN? A Clinical Dental Technician (CDT) is a qualified dental technician that has under gone further Education and Training in areas such as Medical Emergencies Cross Infection Control and Oral Pathology (cancers and anomalies) to name just a few sections that make up the Diploma in Clinical Dental Technology as Awarded by the Royal Collage of Surgeons (RCS).

is this qualification, which means that only Dentists and Clinical Dental Technicians are the only Dental Professionals permitted to supply dentures direct to the public.

A dental technician is not qualified to supply a denture directly to the public.

However, despite this being an act of Mal practice many technicians will still practice illegally without informing the patient that they are not qualified. If you are unsure if your denture provider is qualified; ask them for their GDC registration number, then contact the GDC to see if they are registered not just as a dental technician but as a CDT.

It is this qualification that allows the clinicians at Bolton Denture Centre to be able to be registered and regulated with the General Dental Council (the official body for protecting the public with regards to dentistry) and carry indemnity insurance. It

Over recent years there have been many improvements in both the way we construct dentures and in the materials and denture teeth that we use. This means that the end result looks more natural than ever before. Why not call for a FREE

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HEALTH

Consultation to find out more about these new innovations in denture design and manufacture?

DENTURES NEED REGULAR SERVICING Dentures are in constant use almost 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are also in a pretty hostile environment in the mouth, being attacked by strong acid, bacteria, hot, cold and spicy food. Denture material absorbs liquids and food odour.

Daily cleaning is essential as well as professional ultrasonic cleaning in a dental laboratory at least once a year. Due to constant bone resorbtion dentures will become loose sooner or later.

Loose dentures will increase damage to the gums and bone structure, and increase the risk of breakage. Have them re-lined as soon as possible to get a good fit. It only takes a day or two.

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

YOUR DENTURES NEED ATTENTION 1. When they become loose.

2. When teeth or denture base discolours.

3. When tooth surfaces become flat.

4. When denture base does not fit around natural teeth (in partial dentures).

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.

Call for FREE your consultion

01204 382244

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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.

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.

CONSTRUCTING A GOOD SET OF DENTURES Constructing a functional and aesthetically pleasing set of dentures is the most difficult task in dentistry. We are not only replacing lost teeth, but also lost tissue matter and bone. In other words, we have to re-create your facial features as they were before the loss of your natural teeth.

In most cases we do not know what your teeth looked like, what size they were or what position they were in originally. We have a few indications but mostly we have to rely on our visual and artistic judgement.

At the same time we have to use our technical expertise in order to make the denture stable and functional. Denture construction is more art than science.

Bolton Denture Centre can offer all aspects of denture care including; Free Consultations l Denture cleaning and polishing service l Repair of broken or cracked dentures l Relining existing dentures to improve fit l New full dentures l New partial dentures (following treatment plan from dentist) * l Sports mouth guards *Dentist treatment plan can be arranged. l

What our Customers Say Thank you so much for the care you gave to me and now I can smile again with the lovely teeth you made for me.

PD What a difference you have made for me. I can smile again. No problems.

Thank you so much.

VH Thank you so much for my new dentures, they fit really well and I am very pleased with their appearance. I have had them for two months and not had any problems, just small niggles that have soon resolved without having to pay you a visit. Thank you for your time and trouble to ensure a perfect fit. I don’t need to use fixative and your recommended cleaning routine is working a treat.

Your sincerely AW (Mrs) Just a few words to thank you for the work you have done.

Everyone has been saying how well I look lately not knowing why. You have given me my smile back and I thank you so very much, you have made me so happy.

C Thank you for putting a smile on my face again.

S

www.boltondenturecentre.co.uk Bolton Denture Centre, 44 Higher Bridge Street, Bolton BL1 2HA.

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LEGAL

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PROTECTING YOUR ASSETS:

DEATH, DIVORCE & RE-MARRIAGE

All marriages come to an end, either through divorce or the death of a spouse and it is important that certain steps are taken early to protect the family assets.

WILLS AND TRUSTS Occurrences of first, second, third or more marriages taking place where one or both parties have children from former relationships are increasingly prevalent.

Unless prior steps are taken, once the new marriage is formalised, any existing Will will be revoked and instead the intestacy

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rules apply which can result in a position not anticipated.

Taking the right advice at the right time can ensure a seamless transition of your testamentary wishes through the marriage contract and beyond, and can also ensure that you are able to benefit a number of different parties, perhaps at differing times, for example the surviving spouse in the first instance and on their death, the children.This would be a matter for you to decide what it is you wish to do with your assets.

The right planning (via Trusts) will ensure equality between your children and new spouse whilst incorporating certainty and protection over your wishes such that the surviving spouse would not be able to disinherit the children either intentionally (by re-drafting their Will) or unintentionally (by their re-marriage or entry into the care system, for example). Protection can also be incorporated to protect against negative circumstances which may come to touch upon children’s lives, such as divorce or bankruptcy, which risk their inheritances being taken by unintended third parties.

With the right advice, parties to modern families are able to secure the taxation advantages offered by marriage, alongside financial protection and security for both spouse and children.This in turn avoids conflict arising on the first and/or second death. A worst case scenario of which would bring about a probate action or Inheritance Act claim either of which are likely to be both personally and financially devastating for all those involved.

FAMILY LAW

children. The right time to start talking about a Pre-Nuptial Agreement is the time you start to talk about and plan a wedding.

Sometimes people leave these too late as it is recommended they are signed at least one month before the wedding in order to avoid the accusation that a person was put under duress to sign. It is also important for there to be an exchange of full and frank disclosure of the parties’ financial position and for each party to receive independent legal advice if the Pre-Nuptial Agreement is to be upheld by the Court in any future dispute.

If you are considering getting re-married or even married for the first time it is always advisable to consider entering into a Pre-Nuptial Agreement. Such agreements are particularly important if there is an imbalance in your financial position, that of your future wife/husband or if you wish to protect assets for yourself and/or your

If there is no intention to get married but the parties wish to cohabit then it is always worthwhile considering entering into a Cohabitation Agreement. If a cohabiting relationship breaks down without such an agreement, there is very little protection for the weaker partner. A Cohabitation Agreement is a way for couples to formalise

their relationship. It deals with the details of a couples’ life when they are living together whether in the long or short term and can cover issues such as finances, property and parental responsibility. Cohabitation Agreements can be created at any point in the relationship, not just at the outset and set out what will happen if the relationship should break down.

At KBL Solicitors LLP, our specialist Private Client Solicitors have many years’ experience and can help you make the right choices and plan for the future based on your own personal family circumstances.With offices in Bolton and Blackburn the practice houses dedicated specialist teams offering legal expertise to both private and commercial clients. For confidential and personal advice contact Maria Lonergan or Victoria Melling today on 01204 527777.

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IT MAY NOT FEEL LIKE IT BUT CHANGE IS AN OPPORTUNITY ‘flight or fight’ reactions, but change is an opportunity to embrace and grow beyond what feels comfortable, build resilience and experience new things that we might otherwise never have done. Change is going to happen whether you like it or not, so it is not enough to just survive change, we need to use it to thrive. Here are some tips on how to embrace big changes in your life:

By Dr Lynda Shaw, neuroscientist, business psychologist and change specialist.

Changes like a relationship breakdown, redundancy or serious illness can generate stress, fear and seriously impact your well-being. Your first feelings may be of shock, anger, or anxiety, or it may trigger

Challenge yourself. Are you approaching it with a ‘can’t do’ fixed mindset? We are inclined to choose options with a familiar and known outcome. Push yourself to consider other options and do your research.

Avoid having a narrowing or shrinking fixed mindset, aim for a growth mindset.

The brain is fantastically adaptable, and the chances are you can do it. It’s an opportunity to move into your learning zone. Be nimble.

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Control your emotions, so they don’t control you. It is completely fine to feel emotions like anger, anxiety, fear or sadness and it is important to sometimes just sit with those emotions. But your mood can influence your decisions and interactions so there is also a point when you should acknowledge them and try to move past them.

A positive mindset can be the deal breaker between you doing something or not. The outcomes are predictably in favour of someone who is often positive rather than someone who is usually negative. Being positive and facing change is the best way to learn and move on.

Be your own friend and praise yourself. Whilst it is important to enjoy non-toxic, supportive relationships with your partner, friends, colleagues and family, having your own strong inner support system is important during times of change. Talk to yourself in the same way you would speak to and coach a friend. Dismiss constant negative internal chatter and replace it with gratitude and an occasional self-pat on the back for trying your best.

Fail well. Some say reach for the stars and push yourself over and beyond.

Others advise you to have reasonable, achievable expectations to avoid deep disappointment. Either way learn that

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its ok to fail and learn how to fail well by picking yourself up and trying again using different tactics.

Take your time. Demands for change can trigger our fight or flight instincts, cause stress and debilitate our decision making. Follow your gut feel is not just a metaphor; our brain and gut are connected by an extensive network of neurons and are in constant communication. It’s harder though to make good decisions when stressed as we are less reflective and more impulsive. Try to take a little time to make hard decisions so allow yourself time to reflect before you respond and to summon your strength in case it is needed.

Are you stuck in making familiar, habitual choices? Doing something unfamiliar and unhabitual can be harder and time consuming but helps you to make new important neural connections. Taking a leap of faith can feel scary so we often delay starting or we convince ourselves that we don’t have the knowledge, money, etc. to pull it off. Try to just take a first step and choose your most productive time of day to do it. A first step may just lead to a life-changing path for the better.

Schedule in creative/ innovative time. This way you have the space to think, and reassess what is your calling, what are your passions, what you need and what is important to you. We need time and space to create lightbulb moments.

Good health is crucial to giving you strength. Make sure you are sleeping enough and eating well. Obstacles can seem insurmountable when you are overtired and you will feel less motivated, have trouble concentrating and be less productive.

Watch out for feeling overwhelmed by stress during times of change.

Stress alters practically every part of our body including brain functions such as memory and cognitive ability. In times of change and stress, allocate time for stress combating exercise such as yoga, meditation, walking, or going to the gym.

There is also nothing better than some down time in a nice bath, listening to your favourite soothing music or just having a cuddle with someone you love. www.drlyndashaw.com

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HEALTH

Living well with dementia Life doesn’t end when a person has been diagnosed with dementia.There will still be plenty the person can do. Encouraging them to get on with life as normal and to continue enjoying their usual activities will help.

Evidence shows that keeping active, both physically and mentally, is good for slowing down the onset of the condition. It’s a good time for them to think about taking up a new interest or a hobby to keep their mind and body active such as visiting museums, going swimming or joining an art class. It might be something a family member or a friend could do with them.

Avoid scaring yourself with too much material about everything that could happen. It might not.The progress of dementia is very difficult to predict. Also, you will encounter differing views, which can be confusing. Research enough to get an overview and then deal with each situation as it arises.

Living in the now Don’t predict the future, focus on the present.

Make plans for the future but live day-to-day.

Take each day as it comes and enjoy it to the best

of your ability.What course dementia will take is hard to predict and may not follow an expected path. Live in the present, make the most of each day, be ready to adapt and make changes to deal with anything that might occur but don’t focus on these changes. Encourage the person you are caring for to do the same.

Focusing on strengths Concentrate on taking advantage of what the person with dementia can still do. If they always loved gardening, find gardening projects to do together. It can be difficult to judge ability to do things as it may vary from day to day.

Pushing too hard to do things can result in the person becoming irritable. Be adaptable and adjust activities to suit. In the early stages, using memory aids such as lists and notes will help.

Later you will need to use other tactics such as always beginning a conversation, laying out their clothes in the right order, and so on.

Using activities to maintain wellbeing and self-esteem Continuing to participate in daily life and doing things, contributes to maintaining self-esteem,

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general well-being and a feeling of being in control of life. It also acts as a distraction from the condition and helps the person focus on positive aspects of life. However, the tension caused by declining ability and the need for involvement can make it a constant struggle for you, as carer, to help the person find appropriate ways to stay active and pass the time without being bored. Balancing this, you will find that using your creativity to find different ways to stimulate someone with dementia can bring you closer together, help you find new ways of relating to each other and be very rewarding and satisfying.

Caring for yourself Caring for someone with dementia can have a significant effect on your own health and life.

You may often put your loved one’s needs before your own but unless you look after yourself you will find it more and more difficult to cope.

This in turn will impact on how you look after the person with dementia.You may cope well to begin with but, be aware that as time goes on it becomes more and more physically and emotionally exhausting. It’s best to be prepared, safeguard your own health and well-being, ensuring that you’ll be able to continue to cope in the future.

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