Bolton & Bury issue 39

FREE

Please t

ake on

BOLTON & BURY APRIL - JUNE 2013 EDITION 39

The world according

to Joan Cliff ’s

Back On Tour Competition inside to win tickets

Hairy Bikers

Delicious Summer dishes

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

e

A COMPLETE KITCHEN MAKE AT A FRACTION OF

Tired of your old kitchen worktops? Are those cabinet doors looking jaded? Is your décor out of style, but you can’t afford new fitted units? Then what you need is a complete kitchen makeover.

Reface your work surfaces, replace your doors and drawer fronts, and add some sparkle with glass mosaic splashbacks. Better yet, all this can be finished in a day or two, with no ripping out, no mess, no household disruption and no skip filled with builder’s waste.

Bolton Showroom: 7 Marsden House, Marsden Road, Bolton BL1 2AY. Tel: 01204 526652 Open: Mon-Sat 10-3pm. Closed Wednesday.

Altrincham Showroom: 7 The Downs, Altrincham, Cheshire WA14 2QD. Tel: 0161 941 2272 Open: Mon-Sat 10-4pm.

EOVER IN LESS THAN 2 DAYS THE COST OF NEW

www.granitetransformations.co.uk/bolton

NEW SHOE DEPARTMENT NOW OPEN

BIG BRANDS W MASSIVE SAVINGS

inside...

TRAVEL & LEISURE 8-9

Say ‘Aloha’ to Hawaii...

The ultimate dream destination.

10-11 Robinsons Holidays...

Celebrating 90 years.

14

Ellen Smith...

Door to door coach holidays.

INTERVIEW 12-13 The World According to Joan...

Joan Collins strolls through the highlights of her life.

FOOD 30-32 The Hairy Dieters ...

Delicious Summer Dishes!

32-36 Eating Out ...

Fantastic local restaurants and pubs.

HOME 17-18 Creating Space..

Ideas on storage solutions.

8-9

12-13

17-18

30-32

McGrath Media.

Unit 6 | Moses Gate Workshops Gladys Street | Bolton | BL3 2QG. T: (01204) 796 494 | F: (01204) 791594 www.50plusmagazine.co.uk 4

4

e: mcgrathadmin@btconnect.com

Cirque du Hilarious Daredevils and Clowns

6 May

Family Film Club

The Croods

23 Jun

Mugenkyo Taiko An Evening With Johnny Herbert 23 Jun Drumming 7 May Stargaze Academy Presents

Bolton Symphony Orchestra Presents

Mystically Magical

20th Anniversary Concery

The Comedians

25th Anniversary Concery

9 May

10 May

Bolton Symphony Orchestra Presents

Ten Years On 11 May An Evening With

Noddy Holder12 May

13 July Bolton Symphony Orchestra Presents

Barbara Dickson

21 Sept

22 Oct East Lancashire Freemasons Present

A Festival Feast of Music

25 Oct

Bolton Premier Productions Presents

Showaddywaddy Wizard of Oz 30 Oct - 3 Nov 21 Jun Black Dyke Jack and The Brass Band 22 Jun Beanstalk 30 Nov - 5 Jan For ticket prices and further details contact the Box Office on 01204 334400, or visit us online at www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk

Over 60?

Thinking of moving?

We offer retirement properties to rent from £351* per month at 13 locations across Bolton, including the following:

WINDSOR COURT, BL3 3TS

RUNNYMEDE COURT, BL3 5HX

HIND STREET, BL2 6BW

HANOVER COURT, BL3 5RA

COLENSO COURT, BL2 6GA

EGHAM COURT, BL2 2DE

With on-site facilities and pets welcome, why not call us to find out more?

Call 0800 280 2575 or 01204 388934 Visit www.hanover.org.uk *Price advertised is inclusive of service and support charge. Other charges may apply.

You may be eligible for housing benefit – please ask for details. Subject to status, terms and conditions.

Graham Smith...

TWITTERING ON Twittering Pope I could of course make some very irreverent remark about the fact that the Pope has opened a Twitter account. But he’s got something going for him for he picked up over 300,000 followers in the first 24 hours of tweeting putting Stephen Fry and others in the shade.

I have a sneaking admiration for any 85-year-old who takes up social media but note that he has a new media department who will doubtless be handling his tweets before publication. It remains to be seen if congregations dwindle in the light of this innovation or whether many turn over in bed on Sunday morning and reach for their lap top!

The self-titled “bacontrepreneur” has also come up with other pork inspired products such as bacon roses, bacon lip balm and bacon baby formula.

And, for those “who love bacon to death”, he has created a £2,000 bacon-wrapped coffin.

Mr Esch added: “Bacon is delicious, people get excited when they smell it. When you walk into a room don’t you want people to be excited to see you?”

I told you they weren’t all locked up.

Coffin therapy Next time you fancy a lie down try a little coffin therapy!

A Ukrainian man is encouraging people to lie down for 15 minutes in one of his coffins to “prepare for the afterlife”.

Now why would I want to do that?

The coffin maker has been in business for ten years and says the feeling is just like being in a bed. It’s the same sheets and pillows with its own special aura. You can choose from one of ten coffins in a special room with birdsong, falling water and he says you go home in a completely different mood.

Err, no thanks

Little lit up donkey!

Hundreds of donkeys are to be fitted with glow-in-the-dark ear tags in Botswana to stop accidents on rural roads at night.

About 500 of the animals will be fitted with the reflective tags in the north of the country where one in ten crashes is donkey-related.

I think it’s a wonderful idea and also recommend the tags for those barmy joggers who tear around in pitch blackness.

The UK-based Society For The Protection Of Animals Abroad is paying for the Maun Animal Welfare Society, in Botswana, to carry out the project.

Is your man a pig?

A US company has created a gift for the man who has everything - bacon flavoured shaving scream.

J&D’s new product is described as “high end, luxurious bacon-scented shaving cream” and is on sale for about £9.

Inventor Justin Esch said: “There is nothing more powerful than the smell of bacon, nothing. Bacon is the smell of champions.

“Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and bacon is the best part of breakfast. Why not smell like it and be the best?”

Laura Higham, outreach veterinary advisor for SPANA, said: “The people that own working donkeys are some of the very poorest in Botswana’s society and often have no choice other than to let their animals roam freely in search of food in the sparse desert environment.

“This practice is essential, but obviously makes the donkeys vulnerable to accidents and we hope that this simple solution will help reduce the number of collisions caused by the animals every year.”

The charities hope the project will be adopted in other parts of the country, and will be the first step towards making reflective tags a legal requirement for freely roaming livestock.

Isn’t science wonderful?

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

7

50 Plus Travel

sponsored by

SAY ‘ALOHA’ TO HAWAII

By Sally Dowling from Silver Travel Advisor

Kauai © (HTA/Tor Johnson)

Palm trees swaying in the gentle trade winds of the Pacific Ocean, endless stretches of sandy coastline, volcanoes, rainforests and more – the Hawaiian Islands are the ultimate dream destination.

The journey to Hawaii is not to be underestimated – it is a long way. So when you finally get there you need to make the most of this incredible group of diverse and beautiful islands strung out like pearls in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. There are countless itineraries and combinations with each island offering a different holiday experience and its own individual charm.

Arriving into Honolulu on the island of Oahu immediately gives you a sense of anticipation. The warm air greets you as it wafts through the mainly open buildings and the atmosphere is laid back and relaxed. Honolulu is the centre of business and culture and the capital of Hawaii. It is a bustling city with a strong Polynesian influence and is home to museums, galleries and elegant public gardens all steeped in the history of the islands.

8

The world famous resort of Waikiki Beach is just a few miles along the coast. At first glance not quite the tranquil tropical resort you would expect but this is a town that welcomes a huge number of tourists each day. Modern skyscraper hotels front the pristine beach set against the magnificent backdrop of Diamond Head volcanic crater. At night Waikiki comes alive with Sunset Hula shows, street performers, lively bars and restaurants. A velvet breeze wafts in from the ocean, mixes with the soft sound of the Hawaiian guitar and beckons the crowds to linger amongst designer boutiques and street markets. As soon as dawn breaks the surfers take to the water to catch the waves that roll in throughout the year. Sit on the beach and be amazed by their prowess or take a lesson and have a go yourself, there are plenty of beach boys happy to give surfing classes and surfboards can be easily rented.

When it is time to move on to another island, a great contrast to Oahu is Maui, known as the Magic Isle.

Although it appears at first glance to be flat and uninteresting, travel away from the airport and you will find the dormant volcano of Haleakala Crater with its lunar landscape, or take the scenic road to the town of Hana through rainforest and waterfalls. The picturesque town of Lahaina was once the heart of the Hawaiian Islands where the whaling ships docked. Today the town attracts the tourists with quaint shops, galleries and restaurants housed in the old wooden shop fronts that were once the

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

saloons and brothels of times gone by. Set along a pretty coastline with a dramatic mountainous backdrop and with spectacular sunsets over the small offshore island of Lana’i - the town is picture postcard perfect.

If it is adventure you are after then the island of Kuau’i beckons visitors with a host of exciting activities, watersports, 4x4 land tours, mountain tubing and zip line tours to name just a few. Take a helicopter tour to appreciate the awesome interior of Kaua’i. The imposing Waimea Canyon is more than 3,000 feet deep and known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’. The Waimea River flows through the canyon and is fed by cascading waterfalls swollen by the almost daily rainfall. When the sun shines through shimmering rainbows appear giving the area a truly magical feel. Hold onto your seat because the experienced pilots know how to get really up close and personal to some of the highest waterfalls and deepest valleys.

Hawaii Island © (HTA/Tor Johnson)

Maui © (HTA/Tor Johnson)

In common with the other islands, Kauai has its fair share of stunning beaches. Holiday makers flock to the eastern and western shores but only intrepid hikers or sailors can access the secluded hidden coves, nestling beneath the dramatic cliffs along the Na Pali Coast on the western side.

With its lush, rainforest interior and above average rainfall Kaua’i is aptly named the Garden Isle and has been the setting for many famous movie locations over the years.

The largest island is confusingly named Hawaii – or Big Island. You could easily spend your entire holiday here as it has an amazing diversity in geography and climate. Take a drive around the island and you will pass through tropical rain forests, lava fields, volcanic mountains and rolling hills. At Kona on the west coast and you will be amazed by huge expanses of black lava stretching into the sea.

The area is famed for diving and snorkelling and a visit to Kealakekua State Park is a must. Further along the coast the land is dotted with coffee plantations, each producing the world famous Kona Coffee and most are happy to give tours to visitors and sell the freshly roasted beans.

The active volcanoes for which the island is so well known can be explored at fairly close quarters from the Volcanoes National Park. Check current conditions with the park rangers at the Kilauea Visitor Centre where you can also pick up maps and guides to the area. The island capital is Hilo, situated along the crescent shaped Hilo Bay on the East Coast where frequent and heavy rainfall has created a tropical environment of lush valleys and gushing waterfalls.

Hilo is a commercial centre but does have an attractive ‘old town’ area full of shops, galleries and restaurants as well as museums, parks a cultural centre and a great programme of seasonal festivals and events. It makes a great base for exploring the Volcanoes National Park and the beaches along the coast.

So pick one or pick ‘em all, whichever islands you choose to visit, I guarantee you will want to return to see the rest.

For more information on the Hawaiian Islands contact Hawaii Tourism Europe website www.gohawaii.com or call 44 (0)207 6446 127.

© (HTA/Tor Johnson)

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

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

9

Est.1923

Affordable peace of mind ..... Holidays

ROBINSONS OWN HOTELS 2013 l

All tours include half board accommodation with 2 excursions l Local Joining Points l Complimentary Insurance The Abbey Lawn Hotel, Torquay AA3H Stylish hotel located in the grounds of the former Torre Abbey.

Facilities at the Abbey Lawn Hotel include: Indoor Heated Pool/Outdoor Pool, Lounge, Large Conservatory, Sea View Rooms available*, Lift, Porterage.

The Imperial Hotel, Eastbourne, Robinsons 3H An impressive Victorian building set amidst a beautiful tree lined boulevard.

Facilities at the Imperial Hotel include: Two Residents’ Bars, Ballroom, TV & Complimentary Tea & Coffee in all Bedrooms, 2 x Lifts, Porterage.

2013

8 DAYS

9 DAYS

Departures

14 Apr

£199 £289

-

-

21 Apr

£205 £299

-

-

28 Apr

£209 £319

-

-

04 May

-

05 May

- £339 £359

06 May

-

£219 -

-

-

12 May

- £349 £369

18 May

£229 - -

Facilities at the Ocean View Hotel include: Indoor Heated Pool, Indoor Bowling Green, Table Tennis, Snooker Room, Sea View Rooms available* Lift, Porterage.

FREEPHONE 0800 083 9900

-

£359 £395

11 May

13 May

The Ocean View Hotel, Shanklin, Robinsons 3H An elegant hotel commanding magnificent views across Sandown Bay, Golden Beaches and a quaint collection of shops.

5 DAYS 7 DAYS

BOOK ONLINE www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP.

-

-

£369 £405

-

-

£379 £415

5 DAYS 7 DAYS

2013

-

19 May

8 DAYS

£359

£379

£229 -

20 May

-

25 May

-

26 May

- £365

£389

-

-

5 DAYS 7 DAYS

2013

9 DAYS

24 August

-

-

25 August

- £369 £399 -

31 August

-

-

01 Sept

- £369 £399 -

-

07 Sept

-

08 Sept

- £369 £399 -

14 Sept

-

01 June

-

£399 £429

02 June

- £369 £399 -

-

8 DAYS

-

£389 £425

£239 -

27 May

-

9 DAYS

- - -

£399 £439 £399 £439 £399 £439 £399 £439

08 June

-

15 Sept

- £369 £399 -

09 June

- £369 £399 -

21 Sept

-

15 June

-

22 Sept

- £369 £399 -

16 June

- £369 £399 -

28 Sept

-

- -

£399 £439 £399 £439

- -

£399 £439 £399 £439

£369 £399 -

22 June

-

29 Sept

-

23 June

- £369 £399 -

05 Oct

-

29 June

-

06 Oct

- £289 £339 -

30 June

- £369 £399 -

- -

£399 £439 £399 £439

-

£215 £269

13 Oct

£339 £359 -

-

06 July

-

20 Oct

£209 £255

-

-

07 July

- £369 £399 -

27 Oct

£205 £245

-

-

13 July

-

03 Nov

£219 £249

-

-

14 July

- £369 £399 -

10 Nov

£215 £245

-

-

- -

£399 £439 £399 £439

20 July

-

17 Nov

£209 £239

-

-

21 July

- £369 £399 -

24 Nov

£205 £235

-

-

27 July

-

01 Dec

£199 £229

-

-

28 July

- £369 £399 -

08 Dec

£195 £225

-

-

- -

£399 £439 £399 £439

03 August

-

15 Dec

£189 £219

-

-

04 August

- £369 £399 -

23 Dec

£399 -

-

-

10 August

-

29 Dec

£389 -

-

-

11 August

- £369 £399 -

17 August

-

18 August

- £369 £399 -

- - -

£399 £439 £399 £439

Turkey & Tinsel

£399 £439

Supplements per person:

Abbey Lawn Hotel: Front View 7 days £13, 8 days £15, 9 days £17, 5 days £10 Premier Room 7 days £45, 8 & 9 days £50, 5 days £30.

Ocean View Hotel: Sea View 7 days £13, 8 days £15, 9 days £17, 5 days £10 Premier Room 7 days £45, 8 & 9 days £50, 5 days £30.

Imperial Hotel: Premier Room 7 days £30, 8 & 9 days £35, 5 days £20.

WHY NOT JOIN OUR TRAVEL CLUB and benefit from some of the best offers ever available l

l

l

l

FREE Robinsons Holidays travel bag Exclusive discounted member holidays l Regular Newsletter

FREE prize draws Exclusive late availability offers l £10 discount voucher

FOR JUS T

£10

per pe per rson yea r

FREEPHONE 0800 083 9900 BOOK ONLINE www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP.

The World according to Joan

Joan Collins returns to the UK with her her sell-out show “One Night With Joan” and this stroll through the highlights of her life brings a touch of genuine glamour into our humdrum lives writes Angela Kelly.

The British actress, writer and columnist who famously turned down Richard Burton and bested Joan Crawford may unbelievably now be 79 but - being Joan - she never misses an opportunity to show real Hollywood glitz at its best and most enduring. As she insists in her down-toearth way: “I’ve often been accused of over-egging the pudding in the costume and make-up department, but that’s one of the illusions that form a part of what this person called Joan Collins is all about.”

To discover the real Joan Collins, though, it’s necessary to go back to her roots and trace her rise to fame and fortune. She was born in May, 1933 in London, to a former nightclub hostess and a successful talent agent. She was one of three children – her sister Jackie is a successful 12

novelist whose books have sold more than 400 million copies.

Joan was a very pretty child and grew up into an attractive dark-haired beauty. She had her first theatre appearance at the age of nine and obviously developed a taste for acting through her teenage years. She became a Rank starlet and appeared in a host of relatively forgettable films, occasional TV appearances and pin-up shoots but, to improve her budding career, she moved to Hollywood in the 1950s. Her first film role was in 1951 in B-movie “Lady Godiva Rides Again.”

For the next three decades, she became a Hollywood fixture, driving her signature pink Thunderbird and keeping the gossip columnists happy with a reported succession of high-profile liaisons with famous men including Dennis Hopper and Warren Beatty.

She impressed, however, in the films “The Stud” and “The Bitch” which were both adapted from sister Jackie’s best-selling novels. In 1978 she published her first memoir, “Past Imperfect” about her life – unsurprisingly, also a best-seller.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

In 1981, she went for an audition for struggling primetime drama “Dynasty”, for a part that Sophia Loren had already turned down. Alexis Carrington Colby was the vicious, vengeful ex-wife of family patriarch Blake Carrington, played by John Forsythe. Joan got the part, and was absolutely brilliant in the role.

Ratings immediately started to rise. As the show’s creator Aaron Spelling insisted: “We didn’t write Joan Collins.

She played Joan Collins. We wrote a character, but the character could have been played by 50 people and 49 of them would have failed. She made it work.”

In fact, she made it work so well that Alexis - with her seductive glamour, gorgeous clothes and make-up and great storylines - became the character with whom Joan has become enduringly associated. She was nominated six times for a Golden Globe before finally winning one in 1983.

“Dynasty” ended its run in 1989 but Joan appeared as Alexis in the 1991 mini-series “Dynasty: The Reunion.”

The original series, though, remains warm and familiar in the minds of the public and there are regularly calls for its revival. Speaking on TV’s “Loose Women” programme just recently, British actress Stephanie Beacham - who also went into the series - said she and Joan had been talking about just such a revival, and regular TV watchers know it’s “never say never” when it comes to bringing back successful soaps.

Of course, much of Joan Collins’ fame has come from her life away from the film and TV cameras. She married her first husband, Irish actor Maxwell Reed, in 1952 and divorced him three years later. She married British actor Anthony Newley in 1963 and they had two children before she divorced him in 1970.

She has always looked after her figure and continues to be as glamorous as ever, taking her own advice on everything from eating meals from a smaller plate to keep her weight down to avoiding sunshine on her face to protect her looks. Her outspoken and witty pronouncements on various subjects have helped keep her in the public eye and she has had a variety of regular opinion columns in newspapers and magazines.

In her 2011 book “The World According to Joan”, she admits that she has “always been extremely frank, perhaps too much so. Often friends say to me sarcastically ‘Oh why don’t you say what you mean, Joanie!’ Well, I’m afraid I usually do which is why I have been called opinionated, stubborn, obdurate, headstrong, prejudiced and politically incorrect.

“Perhaps I am, but I have now reached an age and a stage when I basically do what I like as much as I can, without trying to hurt anyone.”

While being Joan Collins is much about a life lived in the spotlight, it’s plain that not only is she a clever actress and a genuine icon but that she’s discovered the secret of longevity when it comes to engaging with the public.

And audiences from Manchester’s Lowry to London’s Leicester Square Theatre are now discovering that “One Night With Joan” is also a unique and memorable experience.

Joan was married for 11 years to Apple Records’ president Ron Kass, with whom she had daughter Katy. Her fourth marriage was to Swedish pop singer Peter Holm, which ended after just 13 months with a messy divorce. Then in 2003 she married her fifth husband, theatre company manager Percy Gibson, who is 32 years her junior. Here, finally, Joan seems to have found her soul-mate and the couple renewed their marriage vows in 2009.

She says that today’s “metrosexual-looking” actors don’t compare with the stars of yesteryear although she believes that Johnny Depp, Leonardo DiCaprio and Jude Law are “wonderful actors.” Joan makes the exception “on the macho front” for George Clooney and she also likes Bradley Cooper and Robert Downey Jr. Her all-time sexiest star, though, is Marlon Brando – “unforgettable” is her verdict.

After “Dynasty” helped give Joan the highest profile of her career, she continued to act and write both romance novels and self-help beauty and lifestyle books. She’s become involved in a variety of charity work, mostly linked to children with disabilities and aiding breast cancer research, and remains a true celebrity in a sea of passing wannabes.

For more information on Joan Collins’ tour go to http://www.ents24.com/web/artist/39680/Joan_Collins

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

13

Door to Door Coach Holidays from

Why not join one of our Quality Door to Door Coach Tours?

Firstly, we pick you up at your front door at a pre-arranged time in a minibus or taxi. You are then transferred to a central meeting point where the coach is waiting for you. Within 15 to 30 minutes you’re on your way aboard our luxury coach travelling directly to your holiday destination, making suitable stops enroute. The hotels that we use are of a 3 or 4 star standard or occasionally a good quality family run 2 star hotel.

A selection from Summer...

We pick- up at your door in most of the Greater Manchester area. We visit every part of the UK from the Shetland Islands to Cornwall. Our drivers are very experienced mature individuals with a wealth of knowledge about our wonderful country. We do city breaks, historic adventures, scenic tours, train rides, boat rides, canal trips, not forgetting our numerous costal resorts.

A Country House Retreat

We offer a price guarantee – everything noted in the brochure is included in the price. No surcharges, we also guarantee that if we reduce the price of a holiday every customer gets the same reduction.

Little Boats & Trains of the Rhine Ebertor Hotel, Boppard 3 star superior

15th June | 7 Days | £639

Includes:✔ Overnight hotel both directions ✔ Rhine Cruise ✔ Moselle Cruise ✔ Ride on Vulkan Railway ✔ Guided Town Walk

Down Hall Country House Hotel

5th August | 5 Days | £279 Includes:✔ Private Dining ✔ Cambridge ✔ Southend on Sea ✔ Colchester ✔ Colne Valley Railway trip ✔ Cream Tea

Eastbourne Haddon Hall Hotel

14th Sept | 8 Days | £459 Includes:✔ Arundel ✔ Rye ✔ Tenterden ✔ Pashley Manor Gardens ✔ Tunbridge Wells ✔ Bognor Regis

10% FIRST BOOKING DISCOUNT TO NEW CUSTOMERS

Quote: 50DIS

INTERESTED?

Call our reservations office on 01706 648126 and request a copy of our 2013 brochure. You’ll be surprised at the variations of tours we operate.

Visit our website at www.ellensmith.co.uk Find us on facebook & twitter (search for ellen smith tours)

14

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

JK Sofas and Beds

OPENING TIMES: MON-FRI: 9am-6pm SAT: 9am-5pm | SUN: 10am-4pm

Fantastic range of top quality sofas, beds & furniture...

Display models from leading big name brands | New stock arriving daily - Call in and see!

WE WILL NOT BE BEATEN ON PRICE! | FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

£30

WORTH OF M&S VOUCHERS WITH EVERY SUITE PURCHASE FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY!

Call us today 07912 696 122 | www.jksofas.co.uk | 51 Bury Road, Radcliffe M26 2UT

Composite Door Sales Door Scrappage Scheme Get £200* For Your Old Door

Keep Warm & Secure

with Rockdoor

Here at Composite Door Sales we specialise in supplying and fitting Rockdoors. Rockdoor are the market leader in composite doors (front and back doors) and have been instrumental in the development of composite doors, leading the way in style, innovation and security.

The doors are tailor-made from scratch for the ultimate in strength, with each being manufactured in a factory in Lancashire.

Secure Stylish Energy Efficient

*When You Buy An ‘Ultimate Rockdoor’ SHOWROOM NOW OPEN 162A BOLTON ROAD, BURY, BL8 2NP 0161-943-9151 www.cds-bury.co.uk/scrappage Showroom opening times: Tuesday - Friday 9.30am - 4pm, Saturday 10am - 4pm, Sunday 11am - 4pm, Evening appointments available, 7 days a week 7pm - 9pm

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Our vast collection of composite doors are thoughtfully designed to suit many different tastes and property styles from contemporary to traditional.

Rockdoors are very energy efficient too. They achieve A-Ratings in energy ratings using many innovative techniques, ensuring that heat loss through the door is the lowest in the industry. The Ultimate Rockdoor features high performance low-emissivity soft coated glass which offers excellent thermal insulation when incorporated within a double glazed unit filled with argon gas. The result - keeping you cosy, warm and secure in your home. Come on down and find out more about our special £200 Scrappage Scheme offer.

15

PaulDavies_Kitchen advert_Over 50s_April edition.pdf

1

21/03/2013

10:01:13

Creating Space...

Why on earth is it that we never seem to have enough space in the home – however big or small our property?

even mobile baskets that can house items you may need in the kitchen.

But for longer term ideas, examine all those corners, walls and open areas in your home for possibilities involving new shelves or permanent storage units.

Space is always at a premium. When the family is young we seem to accumulate cupboards full of toys and games, when they’re teens – if you can get them to put anything in a wardrobe – hangers and drawers are crammed with clothes and the latest fad. Even as we get older, the space problems don’t seem to diminish as we hoard a lifetime of happy memories and items we just can’t bear to throw away.

Interior designer Arvin Rodrigues says: “Most houses have under-stair cupboards and these provide useful space for storing the vacuum cleaner, suitcases and other small items. If these spaces are tall, shelves could be placed at higher levels to make the most of this space. Small under-stair cupboards could be transformed into drawers for all sorts of things.”

So before you start taking an objective look at potential new storage space around your home, take a long, hard look at your current cupboards, shelves and wardrobes and de-clutter.

It’s quite cathartic to free up space, and local charity shops will definitely benefit from items you no longer use.

To house the rest, and as a temporary solution, there are plenty of clever storage systems around - from clear plastic boxes and wicker baskets to racking and wooden chests. There are

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

He also suggests high-level shelving for narrow hallways which don’t encroach on floor space. And these sentiments are echoed by chartered architectural technologist Gary Willis.

“When lack of storage becomes an issue, the automatic response is to box up the items and attempt to hide them away, but let’s think out of the box for a moment. Most people will consider what is directly in front of them on a horizontal plane; look upwards for your storage needs.”

Gary also says that garages and sheds often provide ample storage already

“but just require some organisation.

Very cheap, heavy duty racking or spur shelving in a garage or shed can generate substantial storage space.

Just ensure that brackets and racking are securely fixed to the walls first.”

In the kitchen, why not free up space by putting your microwave on a glass shelf above the work surface? Hang sharp knives inside a high cabinet to save drawer space and keep them out of children’s reach, or store wooden spoons and other utensils bouquet-style in a handsome pitcher or canister.

“Kitchens are typically built to a fixed height,” states Gary, “leaving at least 300mm (12”) of space above wall cupboards that could be used for storage. Exploit this space by placing charming storage boxes to hide away items like old cook books, sewing kits etc.”

Take a fresh look at living room furniture. “Coffee tables that have storage for magazines and bric a brac are useful, as are sofas with storage in the armrest,” suggests Arvin. Consider furniture you can buy relatively cheaply that you can improve. Arvin’s own home boasts 17

cost-effective but beautifully restored second-hand chests of drawers which add to storage space and also create much-admired pieces of furniture.

He states: “Shelves around doors and windows and even beside radiators, if safe, could provide storage and look nice, too. A coat cupboard in the entrance is really handy and doesn’t need to be very big or deep. It could also function as a shoe cupboard at the lower level, and the sides employed to hang keys, scarves and hats.”

Gary looks to unusual areas for help with storage: “The bay window area in a living room is another great place that often has under-used space.

Rather than use loose furniture that is often set into the room, consider a bay window seat with integral storage.”

Bathrooms again offer more storage potential. “Consider shelves over the toilet water tank, cupboards under the wash basin and even a shelf over the bathtub,” advises Arvin. “Bigger cabinets could be hung from the wall above mirrors or even over the entrance door.”

Utilise under-bed storage in bedrooms or consider buying a bed with builtin storage space. A bed headboard can be built for additional bedding storage, plus somewhere to put books, lamps or a radio on top. An ottoman or upholstered cube can double as a dressing table chair and offers extra space, and an artistic

pile of pretty, unusual hat-boxes can complement the bedroom décor and provide further storage solutions.

Lofts are often under-used areas in our homes but can be altered at reasonable cost to become an effective storage room by boarding out. “Floorboards also help to insulate the house, preventing heat loss and reducing your heating bills,” explains loft expert Chris Waldron.

“We’re not looking at making the loft habitable and so needing Building Regulations’ approval,” he adds.

“Just comfortable enough to sit in for an hour now and again with plenty of light and an absence of spiders hanging from the rafters!”

Aluminium loft ladders or a folding wooden ladder make access easy and fitting a light in the loft – “a pendant light with an energy saving bulb and pull switch is ideal” – makes this an easy, accessible area that can add substantially to your house storage space.

And an added bonus is that floor boarding helps insulate the house, preventing heat loss and reducing your heating bills. So you get much more storage space and kinder heating bills as well!

Whatever you decide about storage, it’s worth acknowledging that you don’t always need to hide items away to keep them stored tidily. Sometimes – as with books, ornaments or lamps – it’s worth putting them somewhere where their “storage” actually creates an attractive room feature.

Now that’s thinking outside the box!

CONTACT THE EXPERTS: Arvin Rodrigues, Transform Interior Designs go to www.transforminteriordesigns.co.uk Gary Willis, Novensus architectural design services go to www.novensus.co.uk Chris Waldron, Bolton Joinery go to www.chriswaldron.co.uk 18

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

SP RI SA NG NO LE W ON

Bed, Sofa Bed & Rise & Recline Centre

Not just any Adjustable Beds, these are

OPEN: Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm

Sunday 12 noon - 4pm Queens Buildings, Central Street, (off Deansgate) Bolton BL1 2AB Telephone: 01204 363493 www.premierstores.net

Choice Service Knowledge Price

OVER 100 STALLS

FARNWORTH Indoor Market A New Shopping Experience to hit Farnworth We are an indoor Bolton market place, offering a variety of different shops from jewellery stores to fashion shops with the convenience of being under one roof, with an on site cafe and 100 shops instore you’ll be sure to find JW Retailers a one stop shop.

• Jewellery store • Carpet store • Games store • Bed Shop • Hairdressers • Carpet store • Balloon store • Café • DVD Shop

Enjoy lunch in our café

Now Open 6 Days a Week Mon to Sat

CAR BOOT EVERY SATURDAY!

7am - 3.30pm £8.50 for loading bay area space £12.50 for internal shop unit for the day 30 King Street, Farnworth Bolton BL4 7AZ Visit us online: www.jwretailers.co.uk 20

07967 469 524

LADIES ONLY FITNESS CENTRE For the ladies who just want to lose weight, tone up or get fitter ....

www.celebralingerie.co.uk

TRIED AND TESTED BY THOUSANDS OF WOMENOF W

TRIED AND TESTED

BY THOUSANDS TRIED AND TESTED

BY THOUSANDS OF WOMEN

Personalised Specialist Bra Fittings for ALL ladies.

Home visits can be arranged Call Lauren on 0161 300 7815

Perfect for ... l Busy mums l Working women l Retired ladies ONLY TAKES

Reduce unwanted areas of Fat with 1 Full Course of 8 x 20 minute treatments £160.00

FREE CONSULTATION

Curves Radcliffe Albertworks, Water Street, 30 MINUTES PER SESSION RadcliffeJOIN M26 US4DF NOW!

0161 724 7080

Curves Prestwich 38b Bury Old Road, Prestwich, Manchester M45 6TF

0161 798 6766 www.laserlite-inchloss.co.uk Tel: 07872 959076

JOIN US NOW!

ONLY TAKES

RING TO SEE WHAT SPECIAL 30 MINUTES OFFERS WE HAVE PER SESSION JOIN AVAILABLE US NOW!

Curves Radcliffe Albertworks, Curves Radcliffe ONLY TAKES Water Street, Radcliffe Albertworks, ONLYFITNESS TAKES WORLD’S LEADER IN WOMEN’S 0161 724Water 7080Street, Radcliffe 30 MINUTES LOSE INCHES in just 1.5 HOUR TREATMENT!

TRIED AND TEST

Up to 2 inches from your waistline No water but fat!

£40.00 per treatment Ask Jayne for more details Albertworks off Water Street Radcliffe M26 4DF T: 07872 959076

30SUITABLE MINUTES FOR A DIFFERENT TYPE OF GYM 0161 724 7080 PER SESSION ALL YOUR NEEDS PER SESSION JOIN US NOW! Curves Radcliffe JOIN US NOW! Albertworks, ONLY TAKES FUN, FAST AND SAFE 30 MINUTES

Water Street, Radcliffe 0161 724 7080

Visit Curves learn how PER SESSION Visitand Curves and learn how JOIN US NOW! you can change life,your life, you can your change

POWER PLATE HOME RENTAL

:30:30

Visit Curves and learn how you can change your life,

ONLY £40.00 PER MONTHminutes

Improve your circulation, tone up and burn 300 calories per day in only 15 MINUTES.

Call Jayne 07872 959076 or Carolyn on 07733 107806 Based in Radcliffe and Prestwich

:30

at a time. minutes at a time.

Curves Radcliffe Albertworks, Water Street, Radcliffe M26 4DF minutes at a time.

0161 724 7080

Curves Prestwich 38b Bury Old Road, Prestwich, Manchester M45 6TF

0161 798 6766

FREE FREE GUEST GUEST FREE GUEST PASS PASS PASS

Valid until end June 2013 Conditions apply Please ring for details

JOIN

St Vincent’s Retirement Apartments

Make the Most of Your Retirement Years With over 40 years experience of delivering independence, security and peace of mind – we can help you make the most of your retirement years.

St Vincent’s retirement schemes have so much more to offer than simply a roof over your head. We have won awards for our retirement schemes which are designed specifically to meet the needs of senior members of the community.

Who are our retirement apartments for?

Anyone at all who is either over 60 or has a disability.

If you feel lonely, isolated from your family, or find your present home is becoming too much to manage, then moving to a St Vincent’s retirement apartment could be the best move you will ever make. All our scheme managers are fully trained and live on site, on-hand to give help and advice if needed.

Company when you want it All our retirement schemes have a communal lounge where residents can come together, if they wish, and meet for coffee mornings and other social activities, such as bingo and Christmas parties. All our scheme managers organise regular day trips, for example trips to the theatre. At the end of a busy day socialising, however, you can return to your apartment, and close your own front door.

All mod-cons All our retirement schemes have modern amenities.

Independence with Security. Our retirement schemes are designed to give residents complete independence. You have your own apartment but residents’ security is a key concern for us. We have installed CCTV, a door entry system with intercom, boundary fencing, window locks and smoke alarms, and additionally we have installed spy holes and ID card slots at Swithun Wells Court.

22

Lovely surroundings for our residents to enjoy Residents at all our retirement schemes enjoy the peace and tranquillity of delightful landscaped gardens. The grounds are maintained regularly by a gardener and provide a relaxing meeting place for summer BBQ’s or just a lazy afternoon with a book.

Local amenities Swithun Wells Court, Thomas Garnet Court, Alexander Briant Court and Vincent Court are all located within a short bus journey of Walkden Centre, Farnworth Town Centre and Bolton City Centre. There are post-offices, local shops, libraries and doctors surgeries all within easy access.

And if you think a St Vincent’s Retirement Apartment is for you…

We will do everything we can to make sure you settle into your new home. Our scheme managers will ensure you are put in touch with support agencies in the area, and help you find your feet.

We even provide a Welcome Pack containing a lovely Hessian shopping bag, a pen, mug, t-bags and coffee, energy saving light bulbs, bin bags and a Homebase voucher. www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

St Vincent's has sheltered schemes across the Bolton and Little Hulton area, get in touch to find out more We offer: • Self contained apartments, but with an on-site warden • 24 hour emergency call out • Secure door entry system • Communal gardens, and laundry • Free repairs and maintenance service • Links with health professionals • A lift • A communal lounge to meet up with friends • Full and varied social life if you want it, although some of our residents choose to enjoy a quieter life - it's entirely up to you!

Our Handyman Service We offer a free handyperson service to all our customers who live in our sheltered housing schemes, get those little jobs, such as hanging a door, or fitting a grab rail, done for free.

St Vincent's has over 40 years experience in providing retirement schemes for senior members of the community

Give Jane a call on 0845 606 6565 if you would like more information or to discuss your circumstances.

Visit our website at www.svha.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT The success of this event grows each year.

2013 promises to offer even more inspiration to food lovers, children and everyone who just loves to know where their food comes from, how it’s produced, how it tastes, how to grow and how to cook it. So, if you are passionate about food then make sure this date is in your diary!

SUNDAY 19TH MAY 2013

10am-5pm - Ewood Park, Blackburn

That’s why the Fantastic Food Show is much more than just a festival or farmer’s market. There’s more to see, to taste, to take part in and to learn. And at the end of the day...you can head for home with bags full of local food and freshness!

We are very excited about the Fantastic Food Show 2013, keep visiting the website for regular updates. www.fantasticfoodshow.com

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A RECLINER CHAIR WORTH £1,000 Golden Years Road Shows are holding an exhibition for the local over 50’s at The Holiday Inn Hotel in Bolton Centre on Friday 26th April 2013. The whole event is being very kindly sponsored by Gordon’s Ford and Millercare. They are putting up a fabulous £1,000 rrp Recliner Chair as first prize in the Hospices prize raffle.

Taking place on the day will be a live Food Demonstration, a live Elvis Impersonation act, Zumba classes, Pilates, live magic acts, Mini Charity Casino. For people wanting gentle fun activities, there will be a Golf Simulator, Wii station and also a Facebook, Skype and Twitter zone where you can learn all about Social Media and even develop an account.

For further information please call 01204 860577

24

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

BOLTON HOSPICE MIDNIGHT MEMORIES WALK

From Saturday 15th June, 6:00pm Unill Sunday 16th June, 5:00am Bolton Hospice would like to invite EVERYONE to join them for a truly memorable evening in support of Bolton Hospice on their 7th annual Midnight Memories Walk on Saturday 15th June 2013.

Year on year, this wonderful event has become a night to remember where we come together to share our love, our loss, our hope and a wonderful sense of achievement while raising funds to support Bolton Hospice.

Last year over 1,700 walkers came together to raise over £135,000, a hugely significant amount which helped pay for vital services, ensuring we could continue to provide care to people in Bolton facing lifelimiting illnesses.

So whether you’re walking in memory of a loved one, or simply just want a fun-filled night whilst you help support our work, we would love for you to be part of this event.

Registration is £25.

To register, please call 01204 633055 or register online at www.boltonhospice.org.uk/fundraising

BOLTON HOSPICE LADIES LUNCH Thursday 16th May 11:00am till 4:00pm

BURY AGRICULTURAL SHOW 70TH ANNIVERSARY Sunday 24 June

Bury Agricultural Show has been one of the high days in Bury for many years.

The show dates back to the 1850’s but 2013 marks the 70th anniversary of the show in its present form. Over the years the show has taken place at various venues, including Redvales Field, Barlow Fold Farm, Seddons Farm, Broad Oak Farm, Castlecroft and Goshen Field.

Since 2002 the home for the show has been the showground at Green Flag awarded Burrs Country Park. In the present day the show continues to be as popular as it ever was, if not more so, with over 10,000 people attending each year.

Don’t miss this year’s show on Sunday 24 June. Events start at 9am and go on until around 5pm.

Visit www.bury.gov.uk/events for full details.

PRESTWICH CARNIVAL WEEKEND 15th & 16th June 11am-6pm

Enjoy one of the biggest carnivals in the North West. Live music show, displays, stalls, beer tent, floats, and marching bands, with the famous grand parade winding through Prestwich.

Bolton Hospice’s popular Ladies Lunch returns on the 16th May at Rivington Hall Barn, and again takes place at Rivington Barn.

Once a year St Marys Park plays host to a great family day out including a fun fair, stalls village, music and much more culminating in the grand parade which passes through the streets of Prestwich.

For details on tickets and bookings please contact the hospice on 01204 663055.

Visit www.prestwichcarnival.co.uk for further details.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

25

Bolton Community Transport & Furniture Service Registered Charity 1101339

MAY DAY STEAMINGS AT BOLTON STEAM MUSEUM 27 old stationary steam engines have been rescued and restored - some of the engines which once powered the cotton mills and woollen mills of the North of England. Most will be runnning in steam on these days.

STEAM DAYS FOR MAY 2013 WILL BE : Sunday and Monday 5th and 6th May Sunday and Monday 26th and 27th May They are always pleased to see interested visitors at the museum on most Wednesdays and Sundays, since these are the days when they have volunteers working on site. However, the engines are normally only viewable under static conditions (a few can be shown in motion with electric drive by arrangement) and between Open Days there may be minor access restrictions due to building and engine maintenance work. If you are planning to travel any distance, other than on an Open Day, it is best to check beforehand.

Group Hire: If you are a member of a group or can get a group of people together, we will organise a day trip just for you to any destination and on a day of your choice.

BURY BUSY BEE BUS: The Bury Busy Bee Bus works at the heart of the BURY community taking groups of people from A to B. This includes community groups, sports groups, youth groups, residential homes, schools and any other group of people based in the Bury area.

Prices start from as little as £40 for a 14 seater vehicle.

Our services are available to everyone. All our minibuses are fully wheelchair accessible and our drivers are trained to MiDAS standard.

All pricing is calculated to cover operational cost only.

Excursions We offer individuals the opportunity to go out on day trips to various destinations listed in our brochure and provide a door-to-door service.

Below is a selection of the trips on offer: 21/4 HOLMFIRTH - DAY TRIP £15.50 Visit this West Yorkshire town, home to Last of the Summer Wine and with a Sunday Farmer’s Market.

25/4 THE MOORINGS, BOOTHSTOWN, WORSLEY £9.00 A family pub/restaurant overlooking the Boothstown marina. A range of food and lots of offers, including 2 for £10.

03/05 CLEVELEYS OR BLACKPOOL £16.00 Enjoy a day out at your choice of coastal resort.

As usual, there is free car parking on site and admission to the museum is free, although donations towards the cost of running the boiler would be appreciated.

13/5 MYSTERY TOUR £13.50 LEAVE IT TO US .... We take you on a daytime drive to a mystery destination, making sure that we stop for lunch (not included in the price).

The museum is situated approximately 1.5 miles NW of Bolton town centre on Mornington Road. Look for the large Morrisons Supermarket at the junction of Mornington Road and Chorley Old Road (B6226) and go into the supermarket car-park.

07/6 KESWICK - DAY TRIP £20.50 Explore this pretty Lake District town.

For more information please visit www.nmes.org or call 01204 846490

26

30/5 THE BOATYARD, HOGHTON £11.00 Relax and enjoy this canal-side location, with plenty of outside seating.

24/6 BAKEWELL £16.50 Take a market day trip to this picturesque Peak District town, located on the banks of the River Wye.

For a brochure of excursions, a quote, or further information, please contact 01204 393777 email: bctfs@btconnect.com www.bctfs.co.uk www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

New Rise & Recliner Centre Opens in Bolton PREMIER Stores is proud to announce the opening of a new department dedicated to rise and recline chairs and electrically adjustable beds.

To make things easier for less able customers this new showroom is on the ground floor within Premier Stores and has disabled access.

Premier Stores manager Julian Holt decided to expand his business after becoming concerned that Bolton Town Centre was not offering rise and recline Chairs — popular with the growing elderly population who still enjoy shopping in the centre and don’t want to, or enjoy going to, retail parks.

While Premier Stores have been selling adjustable beds for more than 25 years, they are now expanding this area of the business and have introduced a large variety of adjustable beds on display from leading manufacturers such as Sherborne, Tempur, Furmanac and Dreamworks. The beds will suit all budgets with VAT exempt prices starting at ÂŁ450. The new showroom will also have 10 rise and recline Chairs on display in a variety of sizes from the petite for customers of smaller stature up to the Royale for larger customers.

These amazing chairs are designed to lie flat for sleeping or snoozing and then have the ability to lift the occupant right up in to a near standing position making

it very easy to get in and out of the chair and all at the touch of a button.

With the variety of size, style and fabric the choice is virtually limitless. Again the rise and recline Chairs can be purchased VAT exempt for persons who are chronically sick or disabled.

A visit to Premier Stores, which is just off Deansgate near the Post Office, is a must. Once inside this unassuming building first time customers are amazed just how vast the store is.

Julian and Julie will welcome you to visit and try any of the beds, sofa beds, adjustable beds and rise and recline chairs in the safe knowledge that you will not be pressured and that they will both be happy to help you with their vast experience and product knowledge.

Premier Stores offers a free local delivery and some of our rise and recline Chairs can be ordered on express two day delivery for customers who may need a little extra help at short notice.

At Premier Stores the emphasis is on supporting British manufacturers so the vast majority of beds and chairs stocked are manufactured here in the UK.

So by buying a new bed, mattress or rise and recline chair from Premier Stores you can be assured you will be helping this country in these difficult times.

A large range of Rise & Recline Chairs now instore ...

Bed, Sofa Bed & Rise & Recline Centre

Queens Buildings, Central Street, (off Deansgate) Bolton BL1 2AB Disabled Access Telephone: 01204 363493 www.premierstores.net

A Summer Holiday to Remember!

SUPERSTAR ROCKER CLIFF RICHARD RETURNS TO THE UK IN 2013 WITH MIDSUMMER NIGHTS He’s Britain’s most successful artist with over 250 million record sales worldwide and over 120 top 40 hits. He’s a star of the screen with films like The Young Ones and Summer Holiday. He’s gained millions of loyal fans, and has a place in the UK Music Hall of Fame for his outstanding contribution to British music.

Win! Tickets to see Cliff Richard and The Military Wives perform live in the UK in 2013 Superstar rocker Cliff Richard returns to the UK this June with his Midsummer Night’s series of shows and here is your chance to see him rocking and reeling live, supported by The Military Wives Choirs 50 Plus Magazine are giving away 10 pairs of tickets to see Sir Cliff perform. To win a pair of tickets simply answer the following question:

What was Cliff Richards 1st UK number one single?

1.) Living Doll 2.) Summer Holiday And now, Sir Cliff Richard O.B.E. is returning to the UK in June 2013 for a spectacular Midsummer Nights series of shows, Still Reelin’ and A-Rockin’, in the most stunning venues in England:

Saturday June 1

Harewood House (West Yorkshire)

Sunday June 2

Old Trafford Cricket Ground (Lancashire)

Thursday June 6

Blickling Estate (East Anglia)

Saturday June 8

Warwick Castle (Warwickshire)

Sunday June 9

Hatfield House (Hertfordshire)

Saturday June 15

The County Ground, Hove (Sussex)

Sunday June 16

3.) Congratulations Name:...........................................................................................

Address:....................................................................................... ...................................................................................................... ......................................................................................................

Postcode:......................................................................................

ANSWER:...................................................................................... ......................................................................................................

Tel:.................................................................................................

Email:............................................................................................

Please send form to Unit 6 Moses Gate Workshops, Gladys Street, Bolton BL3 2QG. Tickets are also available to purchase via see tickets and a charitable donation made by the promoter of the concert will go to the Military Wives Choirs Foundation which brings women in the military community closer together through singing.

Powderham Castle (Devon)

Terms and conditions

Knighted in 1995 – the first rock and roll superstar to be honoured with the title – Cliff has always been a firm favourite with his fans. Incredibly, his 2011 calendar pipped JLS, Justin Bieber and Michael Bublé’s efforts to the post, going on to win the Best Celebrity Retail Calendar award.

And his wine, produced in his own Portuguese vineyard, holds Tesco’s record of being the fastest-selling bottle in the supermarket’s history.

Any entries made after the closing date or through a different method will not be counted. Winners will be selected and notified via 50 Plus Magazine.

The prize offering is 10 Pairs of tickets to Sir Cliff Richard’s 2013 ‘’Midsummer Night’s – Still Reelin’ and a-Rockin’’ series of outdoor concerts, for the venue closest to the winners local area.

With a career spanning six decades and a legion of dedicated admirers, Cliff says he can’t wait to put on the show of a lifetime.

Competition runs from 22/4//13 to 24/5/13 Entries have to be made by completing (1) step: (i) Answering the following question correctly ‘What was Cliff Richards 1st UK number one single?’

The prize is not exchangeable for cash or any other item. This competition is not open to any persons directly or indirectly involved with the running of the competition, or their direct family members. Entrants will be deemed to have accepted these terms and conditions and to have agreed to be bound by them when entering this competition.

FOOD & DRINK

Healthy Food Tips For Over 50s 1. Chili peppers may be small but are mighty in terms of health benefits. They contain capsaicin, an analgesic compound which helps with a variety of health issues including pain, cancers and high cholesterol. Add a bit of spice to your suppers and reap the rewards.

2. Adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, cabbage and brussels sprouts to your diet can have great brain health benefits. They all contain antioxidants which help protect the brain.

3. Make sure your diet contains plenty of calcium which can help prevent osteoporosis. If you’re over 50 you need 1,200 mg of calcium each day. Good sources of calcium include milk, cheese, yoghurt, almonds and pulses. Try and have three servings of calcium rich foods or drinks each day.

4. Yoghurt is not only a great source of calcium, but is also beneficial in maintaining a healthy gut. Your body needs to have a healthy amount of ‘good’ bacteria, so look out for probiotic yoghurt which contains those precious living organisms.

5. Turmeric contains curcumin which has antiinflammatory properties. Turmeric has been used as a cleanser for thousands of years and is believed to help relieve pain and prevent the build of up amyloid beta plaque which is a major cause of Alzheimer’s. Turmeric is found in many curries and other Asian dishes.

6. Fish is a great source of omega-3 fats which are important for brain function. Having a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids has been linked to improved memory and preventing the build up of cholesterol.

It can also lover the risks of dementia, stroke and age related macular degeneration. Try and eat two fish dishes per week.

7. Other types of spices also provide great health benefits. Cinnamon is anti-microbial and antiinflammatory, and may help boost brain function and control blood sugar levels. Cumin is rich in iron and can aid digestion. Coriander has antiinflammatory properties and can help lower cholesterol. So reach for your spice rack when you cook and pack these health benefits into your meals.

8. Strawberries are not only delicious, but each serving contains lots of vitamin C which could help ward off wrinkles and age related dry skin. Treat yourself to some strawberries and cream for your vitamin C and calcium needs all at once!

9. Ginger has lots of anti-inflammatory properties which can be useful in fighting heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s. It is also high in antioxidants which help fight other diseases, and the gingerol in it is commonly used as a digestive aid. Ginger can add delicious flavour and heat to all kinds of dishes.

10. Tofu and other soy foods can help preserve the skin firming protein collagen as they are rich in the compounds ‘isoflavones’. Try adding some tofu to your diet and your skin may stay smoother for longer.

11. Treat yourself to a bit of chocolate. Yes! The cocoa used in making chocolate is rich in flavanols which can help preserve the healthy function of blood vessels. Healthy blood vessels can lower the risk of high blood pressure and dementia as we get older.

Look out for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content.

12. Blueberries contain a diverse range of micronutrients which can provide great health benefits as we get older. They can reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol. Try sprinkling blueberries on your cereals or add them to your yoghurt for some delicious variety in everyday foods.

Kavita Pal is the Managing Director of the Tree Hotel Group. www.cadmore.treehotel.co.uk

HOW TO LOVE FOOD AND LOSE WEIGHT

delicious summer dishes

MUSHROOM, FETA AND TOMATO BAKED PEPPERS It’s always important for food to look good, whether you’re dieting or not, and these peppers are a delight to the eye as well as the tastebuds. A great vegetarian recipe, this has lots of strong flavours that come together in a beautifully colouful and well-balanced dish.

SERVES 2 4 sun-dried tomato pieces in oil, drained well 2 tsp sunflower oil 175g chestnut mushrooms, wiped and diced 20g blanched hazelnuts, roughly chopped 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed 50g dry white breadcrumbs 1/2 small bunch of parsley, leaves finely chopped 1 tsp dried chilli flakes 100g feta or soft goat’s cheese, drained 2 smallish peppers, red or yellow freshly ground black pepper 401 calories per portion Preheat the oven to 220°C/Fan 200°C/Gas 7. Roughly chop the sun-dried tomatoes. Heat the oil in a large frying pan and stir-fry the mushrooms over a high heat for 4 minutes.

Add the roughly chopped hazelnuts and fry for a further minute until the nuts are lightly toasted. Season with a good grind of black pepper and remove from the heat.

Stir in the tomatoes, garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley and chilli flakes until thoroughly combined. Break the cheese into small chunks and toss them through the stuffing lightly. Cut the peppers in half from top to bottom and carefully remove the seeds and membrane.

Place the peppers in a small foil-lined roasting tin, cut side up, and fill each half with the mushroom and feta stuffing. Cover the surface of the stuffing with a small piece of foil. Bake for 35 minutes until tender, removing the foil for the last 10 minutes of the cooking time. Serve warm with a lightly dressed mixed salad.

30

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

MAKES 8 KEBABS 700g lean lamb leg (or leg steaks) 2 small yellow peppers 2 small red peppers 2 small red onions 150m1 low-fat natural yoghurt 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint or 1 tsp mint sauce 6 pitta breads 1 romaine lettuce heart, shredded 1 medium carrot, finely grated 3 ripe vine tomatoes, sliced 15cm piece of cucumber, thinly sliced flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper lemon wedges and hot chilli sauce, to serve Marinade 2 tsp cumin seeds 203 calories per portion 381 calories per portion (with pitta)

LEMONY LAMB KEBABS There’s nothing better than the scent of lemony, herby lamb cooking on the barbecue. It’s a healthy way of cooking too, as much of the fat drips away. We like to eat these kebabs tucked into warm pitta bread, but you can also enjoy them with just a side salad or some vegetables.

2 tsp coriander seeds 1 tsp fennel seeds 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves finely grated zest and juice of 1 unwaxed lemon 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp fine sea salt freshly ground black pepper

To make the marinade, put the cumin, coriander and fennel seeds in a pestle and mortar and pound to a coarse powder. You can use 11/2 teaspoon each of ground cumin and coriander if you prefer, but the flavour won’t be quite as good as freshly ground spices. Add the thyme leaves and crush them into the spices for a few seconds.

Tip the spices and thyme into a large non-metallic bowl and stir in the lemon zest and juice, garlic, oil, salt and lots of black pepper.

Trim as much fat as possible off the lamb, then cut the meat into rough 3cm chunks — you should have about 40 chunks. Add the lamb to the marinade and toss until well coated. Cover with cling film and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking.

While the lamb is marinating, prepare the vegetables for the kebabs. Deseed the peppers and cut them into 3cm chunks. Cut each onion into 8 wedges with the root intact.

Remove the lamb from the fridge and thread the meat on to 8 metal skewers — these should be about 25cm long — alternating with the pieces of pepper and onion. Season with a little more salt and pepper.

Cook over a hot barbecue or under a preheated hot grill (close to the element) for 6-8 minutes. Turn once or twice until the lamb and vegetables are lightly charred — the meat should be pink in the middle. Mix the yoghurt, garlic and chopped mint or mint sauce together in a small bowl to make the yoghurt sauce.

Warm the pitta bread on the barbecue, in the toaster or under a grill and carefully cut down one side with a sharp knife. Pull the bread open and stuff with shredded lettuce leaves, grated carrot, tomatoes and cucumber. Slide the meat and vegetables off the skewers and into the pittas using a fork. Drizzle a little of the minty yoghurt sauce and serve with some chilli sauce and lemon wedges too if you fancy. www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

31

BEACHSIDE PAELLA We cooked this on a beach in Northumberland and some said it was the best paella they’d ever tasted — dieting or not. You know what?

We have to agree.

Heat the oil in a 38cm paella pan — ideally non-stick. A paella pan is best, but if you don’t have one, use a very wide, shallow non-stick saucepan, flameproof casserole dish or saute pan.

Place the pan over a medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper and fry them for about 5 minutes, turning every now and then until lightly coloured. Add the chorizo and cook for 30 seconds more, turning once. Transfer the chicken and chorizo to a large heatproof bowl with a slotted spoon, leaving the fat in the pan.

Add the onions to the pan and fry gently for 4-5 minutes until softened and very lightly browned, stirring occasionally. Add the peppers and green beans to the onions and cook for 2 minutes until they are beginning to soften. Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, saffron, bay leaf and rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice is glistening all over.

Return the chicken and chorizo to the pan, along with any juices. Stir well, then pour in the chicken stock and season with black pepper.

Stir once or twice and bring to a simmer over a medium heat. Cook for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Tip the mussels into the partly cooked rice mixture and stir once more, making sure they are well tucked into the hot rice and steaming liquid. Return to a simmer and cook for 3 minutes or until most of the mussels have opened, stirring occasionally.

Scatter the squid and prawns over the top of the paella and stir well.

Continue cooking for 4-5 minutes until the squid and prawns are cooked, the rice is tender and almost all the liquid has been absorbed.

The prawns should be completely pink when cooked.

It’s important not to keep stirring after the squid and prawns are added — you want the rice to become lightly browned and a bit sticky at the sides of the pan as this adds flavour. Keep an eye on the heat though, as you don’t want the rice to burn. Add a splash more water if the paella begins to look very dry before the rice is ready. Pick out any mussels that haven’t opened by the end of the cooking time and chuck them away. Serve hot with lemon wedges for squeezing.

SERVES 6

358 calories per portion

I tbsp olive oil 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut in half 75g chorizo (we like picante) skinned and cut into 5mm slices 2 medium onions, peeled and chopped 1 red pepper, quartered, deseeded and sliced 1 yellow pepper, quartered, deseeded and sliced 150g green beans, trimmed and cut into 2cm lengths 3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 2 tsp smoked paprika 2 good pinches of saffron threads 1 bay leaf 175g paella rice (medium-grain rice) 1 litre hot chicken stock, made with 1 chicken stock cube 500g live mussels, well scrubbed and beards removed 1 medium squid, cleaned and sliced into rings or 225g prepared squid rings 12 raw king prawns, peeled or shells on, thawed if frozen flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper lemon wedges, for squeezing

EATING OUT

ONE ONE SEVEN

One One Seven Indian Restaurant is conveniently located on the outskirts of Manchester, only 1/2 mile from Junction 17 M60.

Newly refurbished to the highest standards, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience. They are able to present a comprehensive menu and a carefully matched wine list - all designed to reflect an ethos of innovation and creativity in one of the most stunning dining rooms in the country.

Their aim is to change diners’ perception of Indian food in the UK and they are committed to pushing boundaries and will continue to evolve their trademark modern Indian dining experience.

Call now to book your reservation and bring your friends and family, you will be sure of a warm welcome!

32

TEL: 0161 7967117 WWW.ONEONESEVEN.CO.UK www.50plusmagazine.co.uk 117 BURY NEW ROAD, WHITEFIELD, MANCHESTER M45 7EG

EATING OUT

THE HORSESHOE

COUNTRY INN & RESTAURANT Located in the picturesque conservation area of Stoneclough next to the River Irwell, the 300 year old Horseshoe Inn is run by owners and brothers-in-law, Andy and Shane.

Head Chef Andy has created a menu using only the freshest of produce which changes in harmony with the seasons to create simple country pub classics. Dishes of the day are featured on the blackboard at the entrance.

Relax with a traditional cask ale in the snug after taking one of the many local country walks. Or why not indulge in a traditional Afternoon Tea? Families are welcome and even your dog can come and curl up in front of the fire.

Food is served all day, every day. They cater for funeral wakes, small weddings and other celebrations. They are only too happy to create something unique that fits your budget.

Look out for their great offers, competitions, live entertainment and if you’re a regular diner then ask to join their private diners club and receive even further discounts.

Always be sure to make a table reservation as they are often busy!

All Day Menu – 12pm to 9pm The Chef’s A La Carte Specials – 5pm to 9pm Afternoon Tea’s – 12pm to 6pm (can be booked for later if requested) Sunday Set Menu – 12pm to 8pm

THE CHERRY TREE AT BLACKROD The Cherry Tree at Blackrod specialises in the finest of dishes in a classic British style. Their team of chef’s headed by Oliver Maher source local ingredients to use in their innovative and ever-changing menus.

A real favourite with diners is their ‘smaller appetite menu’ which caters for diners who no longer want a full portion. This menu is currently priced at £10.95 for two courses and £13.95 for three courses. During the spring and summer month’s customers can enjoy the ‘Coffee & Cakes’ menu which is served from 2.00pm till 5.00pm Monday till Saturday.

The Cherry Tree guarantees everyone a very warm welcome and a culinary experience to remember. Their team of waiters and waitresses headed by restaurant & bar manager Adam Whitehead provide an exemplary standard of table service with particular attention to the atmosphere and comfort diners will enjoy.

The Cherry Tree is open every day with service times as follows: Monday – Thursday Lunch 12.00pm – 2.00pm - Evening 5.30pm – 8.30pm Friday Lunch 12.00pm – 2.00pm – Evening 5.30pm – 9.00pm Saturday Open all Day 12.00pm – 9.00pm Sunday Open all Day 12.00pm – 8.30pm The bar is open all day

TEL: 01204 571714 WWW.THEHORSESHOEINNRINGLEY.COM 395 FOLD ROAD, RINGLEY, RADCLIFFE M26 1FT www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

RESERVATIONS: 01257 48 1234 WWW.CHERRYTREEBLACKROD.CO.UK INFO@CHERRYTREEBLACKROD.CO.UK CHORLEY RD, BLACKROD, BOLTON BL6 5LA

33

EATING OUT ramsons

RAMSONS

A feature in the centre of Ramsbottom since 1985, ramsons is a multi award winning restaurant.

Italian influenced food & wine draw heavily on proprietor Chris Johnson’s sourcing connections. Chris has been using organic produce since 1987 - long before ‘organics’ current popularity.

Vegetarians are well catered for and the wine is exclusively Italian; put together through years of vineyard trips and research.

Head Chef Lu Varley is a natural foodie. Her menus feature a daily changing ‘Carta’, plus two set menus for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday. The ‘la Carta’ menu might include ‘Vitello Tonnato’, luxury steak & kidney pie and beautiful baby Halibut. It’s well worth looking at ramsons website for up to date details.Sunday lunch always features roast rib of beef - Lu’s ‘Yorkies’ cooked in beef dripping may be as good as you can get!

TEL: 01706 82 5070 WWW.RAMSONS-RESTAURANT.COM 16-18 MARKET PLACE, RAMSBOTTOM, BURY BL0 9HT

THE VICTORIA INN - FANNY’S You will find freshly prepared, homemade food served daily at the unique ‘Fanny’s’ at the Victoria Inn in Markland Hill.

Try British classics like sausage & mash, ham & eggs, steak pudding, chips & mushy peas, or try something different from our specials menu. The Victoria Inn is not a restaurant or even a gastro pub, The Victoria Inn is a local pub serving good traditional pub food.

They have endeavoured to accommodate everyone on their menu with dishes that are available for those requiring gluten free or vegetarian diets. Please be aware that their kitchen prepares food that contains nuts and flour and food is cooked to order so please be patient during busy times.

TEL: 01204 849944 WWW.VICTORIAINN.CO MARKLAND HILL, BOLTON BL1 5AG

THE PARKFIELD INN The Parkfield Inn is the oldest surviving pub in Whitefield, and started life many years ago in 1864. Offering home cooked food for up to 30 people, local ales and stables for 4 horses.

THE

Parkfield INN

Friendly Local & Eatery

Under the new ownership of Andy Morris, Paulo Atalainha and Ben Davis, The Parkfield is a friendly and relaxing local pub and eatery offering an extensive range of locally brewed cask ales, continental beers and fine wines. All the food on our menu is fresh, locally sourced and prepared by our chef Paulo and his team.

FOOD SERVED Monday - Friday: 12 - 2pm & 5 - 9pm Saturday: 12 - 9.30pm | Sunday: 12 - 8pm TEL: 0161 766 3923 WWW.THEPARKFIELD.COM 95 PARK LANE, WHITEFIELD M45 7GT

SAN MARINO Located in the Belmont Hills with stunning views over ths surrounding countryside this stunning restaurant combines fantastic mediterranean food with stylish, comfortable surroundings.

The interior is warm and relaxing with brown leather chairs, candle lit tables, oak and tiled floors and an open kitchen creating an exceptional setting.

The produce is carefully sourced using the finest local ingredients. Local means just that, as the pigs are reared just 100 metres away, offering a delicious selection of pork, ham, bacon and suckling pig.

A variety of free range hens are bred within the grounds providing only the best home free range eggs.

The meat comes from local Belmont Farm Produce and the fish is caught daily from mainly Cornwall and the Irish Sea. Altogether a superb restaurant in a stunning location.

O P E N Monday - Friday: 6-10pm Saturday: 1pm - 10pm Sunday: 1pm - 9pm

TEL: 01204 811206 WWW.SANMARINORESTAURANT.CO.UK BELMONT ROAD, BOLTON BL7 9QT

STRAWBURY DUCK Situated amongst the hills, forests and reservoirs of Entwistle, The Strawbury Duck has long been one of Bolton’s landmark pubs. Famous in days gone by for its hospitality and beautiful location it has now been brought back to life as a traditional pub focusing on quality food and great cask ales.

The Strawbury Duck is an Inn for all seasons with cosy fires in the winter and a welcoming beer garden in the summer. The heart of the Strawbury Duck is its bar with its old beams, an open fire, numerous pictures, comfy chairs & a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.

At the Strawbury Duck when they say something is local they mean local. Now, obviously they cannot source everything within a 10 mile radius, however the pork is bred by them in a field some 2/3 miles away in Belmont, they sell local cask ale and their cheese board really is a taste of Lancashire! Their vast menu has something for everyone ranging from nibbles to traditional home cooked favourites and even dog treats!

Take a look at their new redeveloped bedrooms on their website (see below) which will provide comfortable and cosy accommodation for you to get away from it all!

Coffees, beverages and breakfast from 9:30 -12pm Food served Mon to Sat from 12pm - 9pm Sundays from 12pm - 8pm Bar open for drinks every day from 11am - 11pm TEL: 01204 852013 WWW.THESTRAWBURYDUCK.CO.UK OVERSHORES ROAD, TURTON, BOLTON BL7 0LU www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

35

OPEN 10am-8pm Monday to Friday & 9.30am - 8pm Saturday & Sunday Our daytime menu is available until 4pm everyday!

Curley’s Fisheries is a little piece of heaven right in the heart of Horwich and is set in a picturesque corner of the idyllic countryside on the banks of the Wallsuches Reservoir, but within easy reach of the main Chorley Old Road from Bolton.

Curley’s offers a relaxing secret escape away from the daily hustle and bustle, where you can sit for a while, with a coffee and read a book or look across the water and watch the fishermen. Curley’s Fisheries has something for everyone, from enjoying a days fishing to having lunch in the stunning dining room whilst listening to the piano, it’s certainly a place to please all the senses.

The menu was launched on Good Friday and has been lovingly planned and offers diners a spectacular range of fish dishes including Trout, Lemon Sole, Plaice, Hake, not forgetting Prime Cod and Haddock.

All of these delicious dishes are prepared by the Chef to the highest standards using only superior quality fresh produce with excellent presentation served in a modern style. To compliment the new menu there is also a superb selection of wines and real ales to enjoy with your meal.

Curley’s is so much more than a Fishery, it is a little piece of heaven for everyone.

The exceptional new dining room serves a popular daytime selection of light lunches and cream teas. Now owners Steve and Helen Kershaw, along with their son Jon, are proud to introduce their brand new dining experience and offer diners the chance to enjoy the brand new menu which is being served from 4pm til 8pm.

36

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Your Local Award Winning Market

Bury Market Hall open everyday except Sunday “Winner BBC Radio 4’s “If and you can’t get it on Bury Food Farming Awards” Best Food Market Market, you don’t need it,”

...as the saying goes.

“Winner NABMA’s” Best Market Attraction These days it offers no fewer than Bury Market, is located in

50,000 product lines, sold at 370 the heart of the town centre stalls spread over 200,000 sq ft of next toMarkets the MillgateOpen Shopping Full well laid-out space. No wonder Centre. The Market is a thousands of satisfied shoppers Wednesdays shoppers’ mecca which offers flock here every week to soak up Fridays and a huge range of goods at great the atmosphere and snap up the bargains. A visit really makes for a value-for-money prices. It’s a Saturdays unique shopping experience and a large, traditional market full of great day out for all. charisma, housed in a modern setting, or “a retail nirvana rich With all these independent, local Full Market Day!  Over 350 stalls open every businesses in one handy location, with exotic bargains, a fabled visitors know they are dealing with bazaar, a veritable souk of the  Where healthytraders & nutritious knowledgeable who care food doesn’t cost the earth!

North”, as Stuart Maconie said about customers and understand in his book Pies and Prejudice.  Forpersonal friendly service fantastic service — something whichproduce & always can value! be found lacking at retail giants. great From exotic indulgences and special treats to day-to-day necessities, the choice and variety, all in one place, is unique in the region.

Bury Market has in fact been a phenomenon for more than 500 years. It has been at its current site since 1971, but the original charter to hold a weekly market dates back to 1440 when it was granted to Sir John Pilkington by King Henry VI.

So why not join a coach trip, jump on a bus, Metrolink tram, East Lancashire Railway steam train, bicycle, or go on foot or in the car (parking is nearby, inexpensive and on one level) and make Bury Market your destination?

Bury Market is open for bargains galore every day, offering a protective and airy environment come rain or shine.

- @BuryMarket

Established 1887

Planning for your future

Dealing with the law still makes many older people feel uncomfortable and concerned these days in spite of the legal system trying to make itself more easily accessible ... reports Angela Kelly

The potential cost, likely consequences and a lack of knowledge and understanding of the laws of the land can deter individuals from seeking the help they may often need.

And as we get older, we may have specific needs where the law can be a helpful friend.

It’s very important, for example, that we give real thought to making a WILL in order to ensure that our wishes for our assets and possessions are honoured after we’re gone.

“No-one likes to think about dying,”said solicitor Judith Bromley, who specialises in wills and probate at North-west firm Russell & Russell. “We all think we’re immortal and it’s difficult to think about a time when we’re not here. But there are many reasons why it makes sense to make a will – and, once it’s done, then

you don’t have to worry about it any more.”

If someone dies without making a will, there’s a real risk that their assets will be distributed as they might not have wished.

Figures show that only one third of people in the UK have a legal and valid will, leaving many vulnerable to strict Intestacy Rules.

“Families are also more complicated these days,” commented Judith. “People worry about money and assets going to the right relatives, but this can easily be arranged.”

A professionally drafted will by a solicitor takes changes to the Intestacy Laws into account; no-one wants flaws in a will to come to light later, causing difficulties for loved ones trying to sort out matters.

“Older people come to solicitors like us often for two main reasons: they

LEGAL & FINANCE are concerned about the cost of care, and they worry about making a will,” said Judith.

“A solicitor can explain the care options objectively and in an informed manner, and if they want to make a will we can listen to what they want specifically and advise on how to do it.”

There is also the matter of dealing with the paperwork and legal procedures involved in administering someone’s estate and, again, a solicitor can help with PROBATE. Stated Judith: “In order to administer someone’s estate you may be required to obtain a Grant of Probate where there’s a will, or a Grant of Letters of Administration where there is no will.

“As the person responsible for the administering of someone’s estate, you are personally accountable to all beneficiaries and the Inland Revenue. As Executor or Administrator you have a duty to act with reasonable care and skill and to ensure that the full value of the state is realised. You may be held personally liable if beneficiaries feel you have not fulfilled your duty and seek compensation from you.”

and selling his property should Mr A have to go into residential care.

Here, a solicitor may be able to help and guide you – from simply preparing the relevant inheritance tax documentation and obtaining the Grant of Probate to having a more hands-on approach and helping you find out exactly what assets and liabilities there are.

“The solicitor also advised that Mr A should make a Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and Welfare,” stated Judith. “This would include the attorney making decisions about where Mr A should live – the type of residential care home and who visited him. The Health and Welfare Power of Attorney could not be used until Mr A had lost capacity.”

“Choosing a solicitor carefully is important because you want someone who is prepared to listen and to be objective with their advice,” added Judith. “It’s always best to go on personal recommendation if you can.”

Mr A decided to make the Lasting Power of Attorney, and a few months later, his niece rang the solicitor to sadly inform him that Mr A had been left brain-damaged by the operation and asking for advice.

Sometimes, when clients go to a solicitor on one matter, another comes to light. As Judith explained: “Mr A came to see us to provide instructions on the preparation of a simple will.

“Fortunately, because Mr A had, months before, made the Lasting Power of Attorney for both Financial and Welfare, his niece was able to straight away be in a position to help her uncle,” concluded Judith.

“The solicitor took the appropriate instructions with the knowledge that Mr A’s wife had died a few years previously and they had no children; Mr A had just an older brother and a niece.

“In conversation, he mentioned that he was going into hospital shortly afterwards for a routine operation on his knee. The solicitor suggested that it would be advisable to make a LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY not only in case the operation was unsuccessful but also if, during his old age, he ever suffered from a stroke or dementia in the future.

“His wife had died of dementia and Mr A looked after all their financial affairs because everything was in joint names. Now that everything was in his sole name, no-one else could have access to them.”

The solicitor explained that if he made a Lasting Power of Attorney for Property and Financial Affairs in favour of his niece (whom he had appointed as Executor under his will) she could be responsible for all his finances. This would include running his bank accounts, moving investments around, paying bills

These days, with cases of dementia increasing – and when Parkinson’s Disease or a stroke could also affect mental capacity – a Lasting Power of Attorney may be very useful and reassuring. You must, though, have the mental capacity to understand what this is and what it enables your attorney to do.

Under a Lasting Power of Attorney, your solicitor can open, close or operate any account containing your money. He/she can claim or receive on your behalf – for example, all pensions, benefits, allowances, services, financial contributions, repayments or rebates to which you might be entitled.

He/she can also make all tax returns and adjust and settle any claims of tax, pay household expenses, buy, sell, lease or otherwise deal with any of your interest in your property, and pay for medical care and residential care costs. And there is also an option for your attorney to make decisions about lifesustaining treatment. * For more information contact your local branch below.

To discuss your Retirement Plan with a specialist solicitor please call: Bolton Churchill House Wood Street Bolton BL1 1EE t: 01204 399299

Farnworth 86 Market Street Farnworth Bolton BL4 7NY t: 01204 707926

Horwich 21 Lee Lane Horwich Bolton BL6 7BP t: 01204 699432

Middleton Colmar House Middleton Gardens Middleton M24 4DB t: 0161 653 6200

Bury Belgrave Terrace 10 Manchester Road Bury BL9 OEB t: 0161 762 2888

www.russellrussell.co.uk

Atherton 43 Market Street Atherton Manchester M46 OGQ t: 01942 884469 39

Grandparents Rights In Family Law, there are a lot of myths and halftruths floating about. One issue which seems more misunderstood than most is the ‘inevitable’ impact on contact between grandparents and their grandchildren after parents separate, or more accurately, that if it happens, there is nothing that can be done.

In the current financial climate, more grandparents than ever before are providing regular childcare for their grandchild whilst parents work; in effect they become secondary carers. It is estimated that between one third and half of working families need to rely on grandparents for support with childcare. As a result, many children are able to enjoy and benefit from a close relationship with their grandparents. I was lucky enough to have a very close relationship with my own grandparents and am consequently a firm believer in the positive effects such a relationship offers a child.

It is therefore with deep sadness that so often I see the time grandparents and their grandchildren share together being reduced when a relationship breaks down. Even more heart-breaking are figures that suggest that as many as 42% of grandparents are missing out on this special relationship altogether following a family breakup.

As a legal specialist in children, it is difficult to hear stories of estranged grandparents reluctantly accepting their ‘fate’, seemingly helpless as their own grandchildren grow up as strangers to them. Many grandparents are unsure of their rights and confused about available remedies. While it may appear that the prospect of contact is bleak, the loss of the relationship is not inevitable.

As many people are aware, grandparents do not have an automatic right in law to make an application for contact.

However it is wrong to believe this is an insurmountable hurdle, or one which is indicative of the prospects of overall success, even if passed. An application for permission to submit an application is a straightforward process, which is aimed at weeding out malicious, poorly motivated or frivolous applications which have no real prospects of success. It is sad that instead, it scares many grandparents with very genuine motives. Any grandparent who can demonstrate a genuine attachment to the child, and desire to continue contact will almost certainly be allowed to make an application for a contact order.

Although there is no legal presumption that grandparents should have contact with their grandparents following the separation of a family, it is important to realise that nor is there such a presumption in favour of parents in the relevant statute.

Instead, the law recognises that it is in a child’s best interests to maintain a relationship with all members of their close family. Most courts will assume that each of the parents will facilitate contact with extended family, at least on their own side, even if not that of their ex-partner, but of course sadly, family politics often mean this is not the case.

Grandparents need to be confident in realising that their relationship has inherent benefit to a child, and that they are 40

not beholden to their own children to allow it to happen if they do not or cannot recognize that themselves.

I am not encouraging litigation and recourse to the courts as anything as a last resort. Despite being a lawyer, I believe that court is, in so many cases, not the answer.

The problems suffered by grandparents often stem from the fractured trust which arises when a relationship breaks down. A court application is unlikely to re-build that particular rift. Instead, messages of reassurance and support often go a long way. If direct discussions are fruitless, or impossible, mediation can also offer a less confrontational platform for issues to be aired. There is also ‘child consultation’ mediation, which allows the child’s views to be taken into account if they are of an age where this is appropriate.

Many parents’ opposition to contact stems from insecurities that somehow their own relationship with the children will be undermined. Agreeing to conditions, especially in the early stages, even if they seem unreasonable, can often help. It is not unusual for progress to then follow, even if slowly.

If progress cannot be made through any more gentle means, then grandparents should not be scared of going to court if this is the only way to safeguard an ongoing role in their grandchild’s life. Far from being “selfish” (an allegation I have seen used on many an occasion), it is important to realize that the role of grandparents in the lives of their grandchildren, especially during the breakdown of a parental relationship, can offer the stability, security and continuity that children need.

The range of orders a court can make is wide, and can include creative solutions to staying in touch, even across significant distances and international borders. They can include anything from direct contact, to telephone calls, emails and letters, and also make provision for things such as guaranteed acceptance of birthday and Christmas gifts.

My own parents separated during my childhood. However I was fortunate enough that they both understood that despite their own differences, it was right for me to continue to see each of their respective parents. I know for a fact that their continued presence in my life helped me to adjust to that change in our family structure, and gave comfort and reassurance when everything else was ‘different.’ It is sad that so many children, already suffering the effects of a parental separation do not have that support and further, then have a second relationship to grieve. There are increasingly loud calls for the law to change, so as to afford a stronger emphasis on the survival of extended family relationships post-divorce. Whilst change seems a long way off, I sincerely hope it will come eventually. In the meantime, neither grandparents nor their grandchildren need suffer the loss of each other in silence.

Cara Nuttall is a leading family lawyer who runs the Children Team at Slater & Gordon in Manchester.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Your Lifetime Mortgage Questions Answered...

Q. What is a lifetime mortgage?

Q. Will I lose my home?

It’s a mortgage for life, allowing homeowners over the age of 55 to release the equity in their homes.

You can make monthly interest payments or allow the interest to roll up to be repaid on death. The money you release is tax free and can be used for whatever purpose you like.

No, you cannot lose your home with a lifetime mortgage. All customers can remain in their property for life, or until they move in to long-term care. In the case of a joint policy, then this applies to the last surviving borrower.

Q. Can I protect my inheritance for my family?

Yes, there are now protected equity guarantees allowing you to leave a chosen percentage of your estate to your family. Lots of people are now gifting during their lifetime as they feel it’s better to “give with a warm hand than a cold one”.

Q. Will I still own my own home?

Yes, with a Lifetime Mortgage you will retain full ownership of your property.

Q. Will I be able to move home?

Yes you can. Providers guarantee that customers have the right to move their plan to another suitable property without any financial penalty. You may have to repay part of the lifetime mortgage loan if you move to a cheaper property. If you move in to rented accommodation then the loan will have to be repaid.

Q. Does my home qualify?

Your home will qualify for a Lifetime Mortgage providing it is of standard construction and worth over £70,000.

Q. Is equity release regulated?

Equity Release is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA).

All plans offered by Lifetime Finance are regulated by The Equity Release Council (formally SHIP). This is an independent organisation that specialises in equity release and sets strict standards to protect customers. In addition to the sense in taking professional advice a customer must be given independent legal advice ensuring that all of the benefits and limitations of the product will be explained, together with any obligations that you might be under.

Are you looking at home improvements?

Want to top up your income?

Pay off your mortgage or clear debts?

Want to help your children or treat your family?

‘As your specialist local adviser I can help you learn more about how equity release schemes work and discover how much cash you may be able to release from your home’

Please contact me for your FREE comprehensive guide to Equity Release...

Being an experienced mortgage broker I have access to exclusive offers not available direct with lenders.

Phone or email now to arrange a free, no obligation consultation in your own home at a time that is convenient to you. We charge a fee only payable upon completion and we also receive commission from the lender. Please visit our website:

www.release-my-equity.co.uk

Call David for Free Local Advice: 01204 88 4545 or 07792 849974

David Griffin CeMAP CeRER Equity Release Consultant t. 01204 884545 e.david@lifetime-finance.co.uk

Lifetime Finance is a trading style of David Griffin, who is an appointed representative of Intrinsic Mortgage Planning Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority This is an equity release mortgage, to understand the features and risks ask for a personal illustration.

HEALTH

Learning to relax in today’s rushabout, hi-tech, highly stressed world has never been more important.

As heart attack rates soar and stress-related illness becomes common, we owe it to ourselves to factor relaxation into our weekly routine. Even retirement can be stressful. How often do we pack the day with things we “simply must do” and not leave enough time to just chill out and do nothing?

Sometimes we can relax in a hobby – lose ourselves in model-making or crafts, or help our bodies de-stress with a game of badminton, a session of Tai Chi, going swimming or taking a lovely long walk in the fresh air, away from phones and computers.

MASSAGE is a great way to undo those knots in your shoulders and really relax your body. There are many different types of massage available including aromatherapy massage when warmed essential oils are used on the body with a variety of stroking, rubbing and kneading movements.

Marie Hurst from Body Harmony, who specialises in aromatherapy and Bowen Therapy – a very gentle massage for specific problems – says that stress can be a killer.

“The Japanese have an officially recognised condition called Karoshi – death from stress caused by too much work,” she stated Stress is also believed to be responsible for a variety of symptoms and illnesses from high blood pressure and heart problems to insomnia and skin conditions. “A regular massage is an excellent way of alleviating stress and promoting relaxation,” she states.

42

SPA DAYS AND BREAKS are a wonderful way to combine treatments with total relaxation. Usually, they are offered in hotel spas or fitness centres and involve a preplanned day or weekend of treatments like body massage, facials and Indian head massage, with the opportunity to use gym and swimming pool facilities whenever you want.

A light meal at lunchtime is often included in the price.

YOGA, the ancient spiritual, physical and mental philosophy is another useful way to combat stressful lifestyles and promote wellbeing. As yoga teacher Linda Obertelli Roden from Wellbeing For Life explains: “Living with the mind and body relaxed is a natural state for us. It is only the pace of our lives that makes us forget this.

“Yoga is particularly beneficial for relaxation as there are many relaxing breaths to learn as well as postures (asanas). The word yoga means union, a union of mind and body.”

Linda runs vitality and wellbeing workshops and classes, often in wellknown fitness centres like David Lloyd and Virgin, She adds: “Many of my clients say they have the best night’s sleep after a yoga or Pilates class.”

MEDITATION has been practised for thousands of years and was originally meant to help deepen our understanding of the sacred and mystical forces of life. Today it’s more commonly used for relaxation and stress reduction.

It can produce a deep state of relaxation and a tranquil mind as you focus your attention and eliminate the many jumbled thoughts that tend to crowd in. Meditation can enhance physical and emotional wellbeing, offering a sense of calm, peace and balance that helps overall health.

Margaret Walton, who runs meditation and relaxation courses, says that focusing on the body and on our breathing can help to focus the mind, “to bring us to the present moment, to calm us and help us find a sense of inner stillness and peace.”

Margaret points out that we can be so habitually tense, almost without realising it, “that we gradually become accustomed to the sensation of living in a tense state and just think of it as ‘normal.’”

She offers some clues that may help you to spot undue levels of tension, including: tense muscles, heart racing or pounding, hyperventilating or feeling light-headed, persistent tiredness or exhaustion, aches and pains, difficulty with sleeping or gritting your teeth at night, waking up tired, loss of appetite or not eating well, minor ailments like headaches, and a sense of rush and pressure.

She suggests simple exercises for each area of the body.

“Tense up and then relax muscle groups,” she states. “Do each exercise three times. As you get better with time at relaxing these areas, use less tension before relaxing.”

Hands – Hands are commonly one of the first parts of our body to show tension. When they tense up, they tend to either clench up into a fist or to hold tight onto something.

Instead, stretch out your hands so that your fingers are straight and spread out. Hold that position for a moment and feel the tension across your palms and the back of your hands. Then let your hands relax and flop beside you, or on your lap. Resist the urge to hold onto something; just let them hang loosely beside you or let them rest on your lap.

Shoulders – When we are tense our shoulders are commonly raised or hunched. Instead, pull your shoulders

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

down, feel the tension down your arms and up your neck.

Hold that position for a moment. Then let them relax and return to a natural position, not hunched.

Head and neck - The neck muscles can only relax when they are not supporting the weight of your head. That is, if you are lying comfortably with your head supported in a straight line with your spine, or if you are standing or sitting with your head balanced and looking straight ahead – neither angled to one side nor looking up or down.

Many of us tend to spend a lot of time holding our head in one position whilst working, for example. Rotate your head to the extent of its movement in each direction, then allow your head to return to the straight ahead, balanced position.

Face – There are many muscles in our face – used, of course, for speaking eating and for facial expression, but this is one of the areas most likely to show tension. As with other muscle groups, it is possible to ten se up and then relax these muscles. You can also let all expression go from your face: let your forehead become smooth, your jaw sag with your teeth just apart (though your lips may still be closed), your eyes looking straight ahead and into the distance and not squinting.

Breathing – When you are tense, your breathing tends to become faster and shallower. So, allow your breathing to come from lower down in your abdomen (this doesn’t mean inhaling a lot of air, rather just a little air but from low down).

This will help you to slow your breathing down a little, but don’t actually hold your breath. Let it become gentle, easy and regular. Once it is comfortable, you may be able to slow your breathing a little more.

Relaxing thoughts – Although this physical relaxation method doesn’t aim for deep relaxation it should still help you to relax mentally, too. Adds Margaret: “It isn’t possible to be really relaxed physically while being tense mentally, or vice versa.”

For more details about: • Linda Obertelli Roden and Wellbeing for Life go to www. wellbeing4life.co.uk • Margaret Walton’s courses at The Wellbeing Farm go to www.thewellbeingfarm.co.uk • Body Harmony email bodyharmonyuk@yahoo.co.uk • The General Council for Massage www.gcmt.org.uk • The British Meditation Society www.britishmeditationsociety.org 43

Bolton Denture Centre Bolton Denture Centre is an existing clinic focusing on providing dentures directly to the public. As a result they are able to concentrate on providing exceptional quality of private dentures to their patients.

Their success is attributed to the investments that they have made in terms of latest technology laboratory equipment, using the best materials and the most natural, life like and realistic denture teeth that are available. Not to mention their biggest investment; in there own training and qualifications as Clinical Dental Technicians. Â

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).

It is this qualification that allows the clinicians at Bolton Denture Centure 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 is this qualification, which means that only Dentists and Clinical Dental Technicians are the only Dental Professionals permitted to supply dentures direst 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. Dentures, like most things, have a limited lifespan; usually around 5-7 years. After this period of time the denture can start to offer inadequate facial support, which can leave cheeks looking sunken and withered as well as lips appearing excessively wrinkled. New dentures can reduce these age related features by supporting the facial tissues without making the teeth looking large and protruded.

Bolton Denture Centre offer FREE consultation so that they can assess what services or treatment you might require as well as showing you the various standards of dentures that they can produce. After this free consultation you are under no obligation to go ahead and have new dentures made, the door is open for you to go away and reflect upon the information that you have been presented.

44

Meet the Clinicians: Jonathan and Colin Dean

They also offer an intensive denture cleaning service.

This denture cleaning machine uses strong detergents and mild chemicals to breakdown the plaque and debris that builds up on a denture over prolonged periods of time. Despite the best efforts of a denture wearer to clean their dentures thoroughly, plaque can still build up and impair the functionality of the denture and produce an unpleasant taste or odour.

One thing that many patients are amazed at is the amount of time that the clinician spends with the patient to ensure that the dentures are just how that patient wants them to look. As well as the after service, because as many dentures wearers know, getting used to new dentures can take a little bit of time and perseverance as well as having someone to help ease the little sore spots that comes with having new dentures.

Advances in technology now means that there are new ways to hold a denture in place. The most significant one of these is though the use of implants. There any many different types of implants but on whole the main idea of implants is something that is able to offer the lower denture stability and support to stop it from moving around the mouth. Although these are not a cheap solution they are by far the most effective, offering total lower denture security in any environment.

Bolton Denture Centre only offers Private denture treatment, however, they are able to construct a good quality private denture for less than most people would imagine but because of their position within the industry they have been able to source materials and teeth, as well as techniques that even some top London dentists are not familiar with and they are more than happy to show their patients example of the different qualities that they can offer to the public.

Other services that are offer by Bolton Denture Centre are; denture naming service, denture refurbishment, relines and soft relines as well as advice and tips for cleaning and maintaining your dentures.

If you are interested in a FREE, no obligation consultation then call 01204 382244

DENTURES BEFORE CLEANING

PREVIOUS DENTURES

DENTURES AFTER CLEANING

NEW DENTURES MADE AT THE CLINIC

www.thedenturepeople.com AT BOLTON DENTURE CENTRE

for your next quality denture

• Qualified Clinical Dental Technicians • New Dentures and Relines • Dental Repairs • Home Visits Catered For • Free Consultations

Contact us at: BOLTON: 01204 382244 | LEYLAND: 01204 382244 44 Higher Bridge Street Bolton BL1 2HA.

Registered with the GENERAL DENTAL COUNCIL

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Independence House, Golden Hill Lane, Leyland

www.thedenturepeople.com 45

OLDER PEOPLE WITH SIGHT LOSS FACE MAJOR DISADVANTAGES NOT BEING ONLINE Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) and BT tackle barriers preventing older people with disabilities benefiting from internet.

Almost nine out of ten (87 per cent) blind and partially sighted older people in the UK have never used the internet, according to research carried out by RNIB in partnership with BT. The report - Tackling Digital Exclusion - older blind and partially sighted people and the internet - reveals people over 65 with sight loss are increasingly at risk from technological alienation. The majority are not taking full advantage of the many benefits of being online, such as staying in touch with friends and family, managing finances and online shopping. Of those that said they had used the internet – more than half of them had not used it at all or had only used it once in the last six months.

The report reveals that the primary reason given for not being online was eyesight (82 per cent); suggesting that the majority of blind and partially sighted older people mistakenly believe sight loss precludes the use of the internet.

The findings were revealed at a joint RNIB and BT event, bringing together key organisations committed to helping older people access the internet.

The discussion-led event looked at how these practical and psychological barriers can be tackled.

Richard Orme, head of Accessibility at RNIB, said: “Technology has long been used by blind and partially sighted people, often adopting new possibilities before sighted people. Yet despite the huge benefits the internet can offer, most older people with sight loss are simply not using it. The internet is now an integral part of modern life and there are many ways in which it can improve the lives of people with sight loss.

It is therefore vital that we take action now so we can break down these barriers as soon as possible”.

Liz Williams, general manager, Sustainable Business at BT, said: “Older people with disabilities such as sight loss stand to gain so much from using the internet, yet this research tells us that, for the majority, getting online is a major challenge. BT has a long standing commitment to helping people to get online, and I am confident that by working with RNIB and other organisations, we can make important inroads into helping older people use and benefit from the internet.”

PROSTATE CANCER LIFETIME RISK TREBLES IN 25 YEARS Boys born in 2015 will have almost three times the risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point during their lives than those born in 1990.

Latest figures* from Cancer Research UK show that the lifetime risk of prostate cancer will rise from five per cent (1 in 20) for boys born in 1990 to just over 14 per cent (1 in 7) for boys born in 2015.

This is largely due to increased use of the Prostate Specific Antigen Test (PSA). This test detects a wide variety of prostate cancers, including those which will never be life-threatening, as well as aggressive forms of the disease, but unfortunately, it does not distinguish between the two.

PSA testing has rapidly boosted the number of men being diagnosed with the disease. Today, around 41,000 men per year are diagnosed with prostate cancer in the UK – up from around 15,000 men per year 25 years ago.

But the rise in prostate cancer diagnoses isn’t just because of increased testing. Higher numbers of prostate cancer cases are also due to more men living to an older age, when the disease is most likely to develop.

The good news is that death rates from prostate cancer in the UK are 18 per cent lower than they were 20 years ago**. This is likely to be because of improved treatments and PSA tests which can help diagnose cancers earlier, when the chances of 46

survival are greater. Today, around 10,700 men die each year from prostate cancer in the UK.

Research has lead to more widespread and earlier use of hormone treatments prescribed since the early 1990s.

More recently, a range of new hormone treatments have been developed to prolong life – such as abiraterone which was approved by NICE in May 2012 to treat patients with advanced disease, and which is a drug which Cancer Research UK scientists helped to develop.

Professor Malcolm Mason, Cancer Research UK’s prostate cancer expert, said: “We’re detecting more cases of prostate cancer than ever before.

“Targeting the tests at men who have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer might be a better approach than screening all men. Research has already saved lives from prostate cancer. But there is uncertainty over the best approach to treating some forms of the disease. Surgery and radiotherapy - with their potential side effects – is one option, to be balanced against the option of careful monitoring with regular checkups.”

Cancer Research UK’s scientists have carried out research that suggests a protein called MSMB (Betamicroseminoprotein) may be better at identifying men at higher risk of developing the disease. But more work is needed to prove if this test could be useful.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Bowel Cancer Screening can save lives It is important that we all recognise the symptoms of bowel cancer, and that people are not too embarrassed to seek advice from their GP if they are worried. Symptoms include; a change in your bowel habits, bleeding from your back passage and/or blood in your bowel motions, a pain or lump in your abdomen, tiredness, unplanned weight loss. If you are worried about any of these symptoms you should visit your GP. Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK but most bowel cancers can be successfully treated if they are caught early enough. Screening can help detect bowel cancer early and therefore save lives.

If you are aged between 60 and 74 and registered with a GP, you will automatically be sent a free bowel cancer screening kit that can help to detect early signs of bowel cancer. If you are aged 75 or over you can request a screening kit by ringing 0800 707 6060.

Bowel Cancer Screening involves a test kit sent to people every two years, to use in the privacy of their own home, using small samples of their bowel motions. The test does not diagnose cancer, but people with abnormal results are offered further investigations. Bowel cancer screening can detect bowel cancer at an early stage (even in people with no symptoms), when treatment is more likely to be effective.

As well as identifying cancers, the screening can find polyps and other bowel problems. If you receive a kit through the post, make sure you use it. Remember, Bowel Cancer Screening can save lives.

Doreen says do it!

People over the age of 74 can take part in bowel screening, they can opt in to the programme by ringing a free phone telephone number 0800 707 6060. Doreen Dover, 79, from Tonge Fold, Bolton, did just that.

Doreen had been told about the screening by friends and family, so she phoned up for a kit. “The test kit came with full instructions, it was easy to do.”

Blood was found in Doreen’s sample, so she was invited to see a nurse at a local health centre, and then booked in for a colonoscopy at Royal Bolton Hospital.

“They found two polyps which they took away to investigate at the lab. I had a phonecall within a few days- with good news. Everything was ok” Polyps are growths that can form on the wall of the bowel, and can easily be removed during a colonoscopy. Most polyps are harmless but some can grow and turn into a cancer, so removing them can prevent the development of cancer.

“I was very happy to have the test done, and I would advise anyone to have it done for peace of mind. In a way, I feel like it has given me a new lease of life, and I will ring up to get screened again in two years. Bowel screening? Don’t think about it– do it!!!!!”

Anyone over the age of 60 who wants to enquire about a bowel screening kit can telephone Freephone 0800 707 6060.

If you are 60+ don’t leave your health to chance.

BOWEL CANCER SCREENING

CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE. Bowel Cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK. The earlier it’s found, the more effectively it can be treated.

If you are aged 60-74 and registered with a GP, you will automatically be sent a free kit that can detect early signs of bowel cancer. If: • You are over 75 years old • You have misplaced or lost your kit • You want information in a different language • You want information in easy read or DVD formats

Call the Screening Centre on free phone

0800 707 60 60 to request a free kit

www.cancerscreening.nhs.uk www.bowelscreening.org

Bowel Cancer Screening Programme

Dr Hilary’s

DR. HILARY’S GUIDE TO

& HOW A STAIRLIFT CAN

HELP

Your essential guide to how a stairlift can help you to regai n your independence in your own home with Dr. Hilary Jones

& how a stairlift can help you regain your independence in your own home • Do you struggle with any of the health issues below?

• Is it affecting your mobility on your stairs?

• Act NOW to start to regain your independence

• PARKINSON’S DISEASE • • HEART ISSUES • ARTHRITIS • • STROKE • CANCER • OLD AGE •

Call FREEPHONE today to get the facts

0800 422 0653 DRH/50PLUS

www.healthandmobility.co.uk

CHOOSING THE RIGHT STAIRLIFT

Call now for your FREE illustrated full colour 32 page guide Produced by Acorn Mobility Services Ltd., in association with Dr. Hilary Jones

Do you have any serviceable unwanted furniture?

Brand New Leading Brands

FURNITURE DONATIONS: We collect unwanted, re-usable furniture FREE of charge from any household within the Bolton borough.

If you’re looking to buy a new appliance come and visit us, we stock many leading brands of white goods and furniture.

at low prices - available to all

VOLUNTEERS: We are always looking for new volunteers to help us with providing our services. We always need minibus drivers & van drivers and crew.

All donations of furniture are then displayed in our showrooms at

Bolton Community Transport & Furniture Services Lecturers Close Bolton BL3 6DG also Market Street, Farnworth BL4 8EX If you can help us please tel : 01204 364777 email: bctfs@btconnect.com www.bctfs.co.uk Registered Charity 1101339

48

Bolton Community Transport & Furniture Services Lecturers Close Bolton BL3 6DG also Market Street, Farnworth BL4 8EX telephone: 01204 364777 email: bctfs@btconnect.com www.bctfs.co.uk Registered Charity 1101339

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Smile!

Get your teeth fixed in Smile! your teeth  xed in Smile! Get your teeth xed in Budapest and save £1000s Budapest and save Budapest and save £1000s £1000s

In In 2013 thethe dental tourism industry is isset 2013 dental tourism industry 2013 the dental tourism industry is set toIncontinue to grow with more and more set to continue to grow with more and tomore continue to grow with more and more people traveling to Budapest in Hungary people travelling to Budapest in traveling Budapest in Hungary topeople have their xed.

Hungary toteeth havetotheir teeth fixed. to have their teeth xed.

2012 Treatment Abroad Medical In In 2012 thethe Treatment Abroad Medical InTourism 2012 Survey theSurvey Treatment Abroad Medical revealed that 20,000 Tourism revealed that 20,000 Tourism Survey revealed thatoverseas 20,000 people from UK travelled overseas people from thethe UK travelled for dental treatment. people from the UK travelled overseas for dental treatment. for dental treatment.

Budapest has long been established as Budapest long been established as the mosthas popular destination in Europe Budapest has long beendestination established as the most popular dental in because of the high standards of dental the most popular dental destination in Europe of the high standards care, because the rigorous training and education because ofrigorous the hightraining standards ofEurope dental care, the and of Hungarian dentists, and the huge of dental of care, the rigorous training education Hungarian dentists, andand the savings on offer to UK patients. education of on Hungarian dentists, and the huge savings offer to UK patients. huge savings offer to UKfrom patients.

Direct flightsonare available Manchester, Leeds, Bristol, Edinburgh Direct ights are available from Direct ights are and London for available asBristol, little asfrom £60 return.

Manchester, Leeds, Edinburgh Manchester, Leeds, Bristol, Edinburgh

and London for as littleisasthe £60 return.

Kreativ Dental Clinic most and London for as little as £60 return. advanced dental clinic in Hungary, Kreativ Dental Clinic is the most dedicated to providing its patients with Kreativ Dental Clinic advanced dental clinic inthe Hungary, the highest quality of is care atmost prices that advanced dental clinic in Hungary, dedicated to providing its patients with are on average 50% to 70% cheaper dedicated providing its patients the highest of care at priceswith that than in thetoquality UK. theon highest quality prices that are average 50%oftocare 70%atcheaper than are onKreativ average 50% Team to 70%arecheaper than The Dental specialists in the UK. in the Dental in UK.Implants, Artificial Bone Replacement, SinusTeam Lifting, The Kreativ Dental are Porcelain specialists Crowns, Bridgework, Veneers, Root The Kreativ Dental Team areBone specialists in Dental Implants, Articial Canal Treatment and Periodontal in Dental Implants, Arti cial Bone Replacement, Sinus Lifting, Porcelain Surgery.Bridgework, Replacement, Sinus Lifting, Porcelain Crowns, Veneers, Root Crowns, Bridgework, Veneers, Root Canal Treatment and Periodontal UK aftercare is provided for all patients Canal Treatment and Periodontal Surgery. and their guarantee is the strongest Surgery. available in Budapest.

UK aftercare is provided for all patients UKtheir aftercare is provided for all patients and guarantee is the strongest and their guarantee is the strongest available in Budapest. available in Budapest.

How much canI IIsave? save?

How Howmuch muchcan can save?

This 32 year old male saved more than £9000

This Thispatient patientsaved savedmore morethan than£9000 £9000

Faced with unaffordable quotes ininthe UK or Faced withtreatment unaffordable quotes the UK or Th e same in the UK can cost over the prospect of wearing unwanted dentures, this the prospect of wearing unwanted dentures, £16,000. The patient received multiple high this patient travelled to Kreativ Dental and received patient dental travelled to Kreativ and received quality implants, andDental full upper and lower multiple quality dental and full multiplehigh high quality dentalimplants, implants, and full porcelain crown and bridge work at the Kreativ upper and lower porcelain crown and bridge upper and lower porcelain crown and bridge Dental Clinic in Budapest. work. work.

Reader Reader Offer Offer:: Consultation, Consultation, Hotel Hotel & & Flight Flight Package Package ••FREE FREETwo Twonight nightstay stayatataa44Star StarHotel Hotel ••FREE FREEConsultation Consultationand andTreatment TreatmentPlan Plan

•• FREE FREE OPG OPG X-ray X-ray •• FREE FREE Airport Airport Transfers Transfers for for Two Two

••Flight FlightTicket Ticketreimbursed reimbursed**

•• FREE FREE Budapest Budapest Travel Travel Pass Pass for for Two Two

Quote: 50BNBU Quote:50sw 50CW

* See website for flight ticket conditions * See website for flight ticket conditions

Kreativ Dental Clinic Kreativ Dental Clinic Tel: 0203 0203 2879 2879 331 331 Tel:

www.kreativdentalclinic.co.uk www.kreativdentalclinic.co.uk

DEMENTIA EXPLAINED

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

Dementia is an age-related syndrome that affects nearly 600,000 people in the UK and that number is rising.

Dementia is becoming more and more important because we are living longer and Dementia is now the most common disease in the elderly.

and can be both frightening and exhausting for those with Alzheimer’s Disease as well as their loved ones.

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

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

During the course of the disease the chemistry and structure of the brain changes, leading to the death of brain cells. Currently it’s difficult for doctors to make a clear diagnosis for Dementia.

In the early stages the clinical symptoms can be quite ambiguous because cognitive impairment needs to be distinguished from brain changes during normal ageing.

Dementia usually first appears as forgetfulness.

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

Four main types of Dementia

Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common cause of Dementia and accounts for 50% - 60% of all cases. It destroys brain cells and nerves disrupting the neuro transmitters which carry messages in the brain, particularly those responsible for storing memories. Alzheimer’s can affect memory, understanding, judgment, emotions and even personality

Dementia with Lewy bodies Dementia with Lewy bodies is the third most common cause of Dementia and may occur in up to 20% of cases.

Dementia with Lewy bodies is similar to Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s Disease in that it is caused by the degeneration and death of nerve cells in the brain. Lewy bodies are abnormal collections of protein deposits, found in the nerve cells of the brain.

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

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

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

Not everyone with MCI develops Dementia.

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

1.

2.

3.

4.

50

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

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

Regular physical exercise may reduce the risk of Vascular Dementia.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

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

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

In recent years, however, treatments that can improve the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease are becoming available.

Other treatments that may slow down the progression of the disease in the brain are also being developed. It is important that people with Alzheimer’s disease are identified as early as possible, so that they can benefit from these treatments in the future. Identifying people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is one way to try to achieve this but so far, none of the techniques available are sufficiently developed to provide a definitive diagnosis in patients with MCI.

Helping those with Dementia • •

• •

• • •

•

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

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

carers. All our services have been developed at the request of carers and those living with dementia.

We actively promote LIVING with dementia rather than living with DEMENTIA. Dementia has very few positive role models and therefore it is very difficult for those diagnosed to get the support they need. They therefore decided to set up a borough wide service of Memory Cafes to reduce the stigma caused by the name dementia. Memory Cafes fit with the intentions of the Government Dementia Strategy of February 2009.

They offer a friendly relaxed and welcoming setting where anyone with concerns can drop-in without an appointment and talk to a member of staff or an experienced volunteer. The Cafe will provide cognitive stimulation for the person living with dementia and an opportunity for carers to exchange experiences and information.

Their sessions are Monday Victoria Hall Bolton 2.00- 4.00pm Tuesday RMI Club Horwich 2.00 - 4.00pm.

There is also an additional activity afternoon at Trinity Methodist, Bury Road Bolton on Wednesdays 1.30- 3.30pm.

Singing plays a big part in helping those who live with dementia and this is provided along with Zumba sessions and Fun with Music at all their venues.

Here in Bolton they now have a Memory Assessment Service which has been running from Lever Chambers from October.

Referrals are made to this service by the GP which should be of great help for those living with dementia and their carers.

The Dementia Support Group.

The Dementia Support Group.

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

2. Becoming well informed is really important.

3. Developing good coping skills 4. Having a strong network of family and friends also are important 5. Staying physically active helps us cope emotionally to being a carer 6. Getting support groups for respite and expression of concerns DR LYNDA SHAW RUNS AN ADVISORY SERVICE FOR LOVED ONES OF THOSE SUFFERING WITH DEMENTIA. www.drlyndashaw.com The Dementia Support Group is a registered Charity which operates in Bolton. The Group works independently but has strong links with like-minded organisations both locally and nationally. Dementia Awareness and the person – centred approach to dementia has always been their aim and they commend the Prime Ministers initiatives in this field. The Dementia Support Group exists to support people living with dementia and their carers. As present and former carers themselves they have first hand experience of the needs of

Registered Charity No : 1123776

Bolton’s own Dementia Support Group.

Bolton’s own Dementia Support Group

Supporting people with dementia and those who c

Supporting people with dementia them. and those whoProud care for them. to serve the people of Bolton.

Proud to serve the people of Bolton.

If you would like information or advice please con If you would like information or advice The Dementia Support Group please contact: Carers Resource The Dementia Support Group Thicketford Road Carers Resource, Thicketford Road, Bolton BL2 2LW.

Tel: 01204 386696

Bolton BL 2 2LW

email: dementiasupportgroup@googlemail.com Tel : 01204 386696 www.allcommunity.co.uk/dementiasupportgroup Email: dementiasupportgroup@googlemail.com

www.allcommunity.co.uk/dementiasupportgroup

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

51

Bury Adult Care Services

Support at Home

What is the Support at Home Service?

Our Support at Home service is a new service Bury Council’s Adult Care Services is providing, to enable people who may need a little help to continue living in their own home.

What could the service offer you?

A visit or daily telephone call from one of our highly trained support staff (Monday to Friday) to make surer you are ok, talk through any worries or problems you may have and be able to offer a ‘listening ear’.

In addition to this help is at hand 24 hours a day, 365 days per year from our Carelink response service.

What is Carelink?

Carelink is an alarm service that works via a unit that connects to your telephone line. You will be given a pendant to wear around your neck and in an emergency all you need to do is push the button on the pendant. Carelink will find out what the problem is and take appropriate action.

Who can have this service?

This service is available to anyone: •

Aged 60 or above or

•

People under 60 that have a disability or high support needs

Is there are charge for this service?

This service is FREE if: •

You are in receipt of Housing.

The service may also be free or at a reduced rate if you are in receipt of other benefits but this would be dependent upon your circumstances. We will be happy to explain this in more detail you.

Would you like to know more?

If you think this service would be of benefit to you or someone you know please contact us on the number below and we will be happy to discuss this service and what it can offer to you in more detail and answer any questions you may have.

Taylor House, Brandlesholme Road, Bury BL8 1HS. Tel: 0161 253 6063 | email: shelteredhousing@bury.gov.uk

HELP IS AT HAND 24 hours a day 7 days a week Provides assistance if unwell Provides reassurance Reduces the feeling of isolation Gives families peace of mind

For further information contact CareLink on 0161 253 6222, visit www.bury.gov.uk/adults or email carelink@bury.gov.uk

Sheltered Housing “Independent Living” Bury Council has Sheltered Housing Schemes throughout the borough.

All Schemes Offer: • A Support Service • 24 hour emergency alarm service • Safe secure environment • Full independence backed by the right amount of support from you • Close working with other support services e.g. Home Care, District Nurse

In Addition Some Schemes Offer: • Communal lounge • Communal laundry • Door entry system • CCTV security system • Guest room

We currently have vacancies at a number of schemes.

For further information please contact us:-

0161 253 6063 shelteredhousing@bury.gov.uk

Electric Beds

FROM £499.00

Commodes

FROM £49.99

Walking Sticks

FROM £5

Adjustable Table

ONLY £29

Wheelchairs

Ex Loan £49 New from £99

CHOICE OF COLOUR

WITH FREE BAG

Scooters

NEW & USED PX WELCOME

NEW STAIRLIFTS

Chicago Riser Recliner

ONLY £499

4 Wheel Rollator

ONLY £49.99

Tri Walker

ONLY £39.99

LLG Wheelchairs Ltd have been in the mobility business since 1983, offering a high quality service to our customers throughout the UK. We carry one of the largest stocks of new and used mobility scooters, vehicles and mobility accessories in the north west.

We don’t just sell wheelchairs and mobility scooters in Leigh - we can also supply small household mobility aids to stairlifts and everything in-between throughout the north west and the UK. Our after-sales customer care is second to none.

If you have a disability or mobility problem our aim is to help you find the best solution, so why not contact us or call into our showroom. Our experienced staff are always happy to offer friendly and useful advice on the best mobility solution for your needs.

REGAIN YOUR INDEPENDENCE Daily Living Aids l Stairlifts l Power Chairs l Scooters l Footwear & much more ... l

NHS WHEELCHAIR VOUCHER SCHEME FREE HOME DEMONSTRATION OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE For friendly, honest advice, or to arrange a demonstration please call us on

01942 606668

All offers subject to availability. Prices exclude VAT. Exempt for disabled and chronically sick.

Parsonage Garage, Kirkhall Lane, Leigh, Lancs WN7 5RP. Also at 24 Market Street, Leigh, Lancs WA7 1DS. T: 01942 269341. e: sales@llgwheelchairs.co.uk

Visit our website www.llgwheelchairs.co.uk

BOLTON