Excellent quality, value and service guaranteed
Also now introducing new Mango and Sheesham wood furniture. Helping to make a fabulous living space.
Here at Simpson Interiors we specialise in offering top quality mostly locally made sofas and chairs and sell unique accessories and lovely wood furniture to adorn any living room. We have been in business in the Indoor Market at Bury for 6 years.
Established over 35 years
OPENING TIMES:
Monday till Friday 9.00am till 4.00pm Saturday - 10.00am till 1.00pm Sunday - CLOSED
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, powered wheelchairs 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 stair lifts 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 to 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.
6-7 TWITTERING ON
By Angela Kelly
10-11 TRAVEL
Hebridean Island Cruises
14-15 CELEBRITY FEATURE
Harrison Ford tackles a tough adventure role at the age of 81
22-22 MOTORING
Kia Driving Day
28-30 HOME
Buying just one thing can make a difference
33-36 FOOD
Theo Randall showcases the best of Italian cooking
41-42 GARDENING
Flowers that bloom late and how to create an outdoor eating area on a budget
Bridgeman House 77 Bridgeman Street | Bolton | BL3 6BY. Sales Enquiries : T: (01204) 238180
E: artwork@mcgrathmedia.co.uk
FINANCE AVAILABLE along with free HOME DEMONSTRATION on request.
3 MONTHS FREE INSURANCE IS INCLUDED WITH EVERY POWERED WHEELCHAIR OR MOBILITY SCOOTER PURCHASED
HEAD OFFICE (LEIGH BRANCH)
PARSONAGE GARAGE, KIRKHALL LANE
LEIGH WN7 5RP
TEL: 01942 606668
sales@llgwheelchairs.co.uk
www.llgwheelchairs.co.uk
Congratulations to Glenys Shaw from Bolton, the winner of the Premier Stores Wordsearch for 2 Tempur Pillows worth £300.
By Angela Kelly
Let’s hope Lewis can rest now and eventually return to his performances with all his usual impressive commitment. We need to hear that beautiful voice – and see Lewis back on form.
How can we condone competitive eating in 2023?
I CAN’T be the only person who feels that competitive eating events are completely at odds with life in a country where so many struggle just to pay for enough daily food.
Reading about eating champion John Dawes’ ability to eat 20 sausages and a kilo of mash in five minutes offers an uncomfortable reality.
THE moment that singer Lewis Capaldi’s Tourette’s Syndrome symptoms prevented him from singing at Glastonbury made heartbreaking viewing.
Even for TV viewers not privy to that live moment at Worthy Farm, seeing the talented Lewis unable to carry on was very upsetting.
He had just had a three week mental health break in order to fulfil this appearance but, sadly, Tourette’s (the neurological condition which causes unwanted, involuntary muscle movements and sounds).is a cruel curse, striking sufferers randomly.
In the middle of all this, the audience came to the rescue, taking over the singing of his haunting hit Someone You Love. Unsurprisingly, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house - in my house, either.
Lewis also wrote the song and it’s opening line “I’m going under and this time there’s no one to save me” was particularly poignant.
Genuine affection between performer and audience is the staple of huge popularity, especially among today’s headliners. But the deal can still mean a “them and us” situation which puts our heroes on pedestals.
To see and hear the real empathy of an audience prepared to offer unconditional support was very touching. All of them knew that Lewis was in anguish, physical and mental, over his inability to perform as he wanted to, in spite of having already delivered some fabulous songs.
Their answer was simply to sing it for him.
Although Glastonbury like any major festival, is built on practical affection for enduring musical heroes, it was rare to see it in action in quite such a deliberate way when it was needed.
The fact that he wants his 18 year-old daughter to continue his legacy with rigorous “training sessions” seems an odd sort of suggested career path for anyone.
Consuming huge amounts of food in mere minutes feels wrong on so many levels when we still urgently need food banks and thousands of children attend school breakfast clubs just to give them a decent start to the day.
Surely promoting gluttony as entertainment - or, worse, as a genuine “sport” - is crazily out of kilter with Britain in 2023?
Cheesy chat-up lines still working
CHAT-up lines are always fascinating, don’t you think?
They are probably a great indication of the social trends of the time but most have one thing in common: they are relentlessly cheesy.
So it was reassuring to see the results of a poll of single Brits and what their current chat-up lines are.
Roughly a quarter of those aged between 16 and 29 (categorized as Gen Z) say they have used corny one liners on someone else compared to just 11 per cent of singles aged from 30 to 49.
The youngsters also prefer to deliver their chat-up lines via online dating rather than face-to-face.
According to them, the best flirty phrase was “ Is your name WiFi? Because I’m feeling a connection.”
Another ranking highly was “Is your name Google? ‘Cause you’re what I’ve been searching for.” Or “Are you a parking ticket? ‘Cause you’ve got fine written all over you” and “Should we get coffee? ‘Cause I like you a latte.”
When you’ve finished groaning, it is rather interesting that today’s youngsters still value this kind of preliminary social action. And quite touching that they believe it will work.
I think I still prefer the old classics like “You dancin’?” You askin’?” “I’m askin’.” “I’m dancin’“. How could that fail?!
YOU really have to admire the attitude of Paralympic gold medallist Ellie Simmonds to her birth mother.
Ellie was born with dwarfism but has never let this define her.
At 10 days old, she went into foster care and was later adopted by a plainly remarkable couple who have done everything possible to encourage her and allow her to develop as an individual and as a champion, Ellie became the youngest of five children, growing up with adoptive parents Val and Steve in Walsall in the West Midlands. From an early age, she loved swimming and was just 13 when she won two golds for Britain at the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing.
She retired from sport in 2020 and it was then that she felt the urge to trace her roots. Now, in a new ITV documentary Ellie Simmonds, Finding My Secret Family, Ellie, aged 28, refuses to judge her birth mother, who already had a daughter without dwarfism.
Her birth mother had separated from Ellie’s father before she found out she was pregnant. She felt guilty about her daughter’s disability and wished she’d had an abortion or that her baby had died.
Ellie explains: “It sounds like she had a fear of not just me but of living with dwarfism.”
Ellie also realized that not enough was known or understood about dwarfism (achondroplasia, the most common form of dwarfism) then.
When Ellie ultimately discovered her mother, they met up and, critically, she told Ellie that she had suffered with guilt and selfhatred ever since.
She did, though, feel happy that Ellie’s adoptive parents and siblings had provided her with such a loving environment.
On that first meeting, they spoke for over five hours “and were howling with laughter as we’ve got the same sense of humour.”
Not every adoption story has such a happy ending and not every child has the courage and understanding of Ellie Simmonds. This proved a really heartwarming story all round.
or email: help@aamail.org
£229
Whether you’re looking for a romantic break for two, a family holiday or getting away with friends, Daish’s Holidays offers 12 hotels in 10 of the most popular UK destinations. Our fleet of 35 luxury coaches provide return travel in comfort and style from your pick up point and will take you directly to your hotel, aiming to arrive between 3 – 5pm.
If you’d like to get out and about to explore the local area on your holiday, then all of our breaks can also be booked on a self-drive basis so you’ve got the freedom of having your own car.
Every break includes:
Self-drive & coach inclusive breaks Live nightly entertainment
Trip Advisor’s Travellers’ Choice
your brochure now!
We are proud to announce that six of our group – County, Devonshire, Abbey Lawn, Bournemouth Sands, Daish’s, Imperial – have been awarded the coveted TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice award for 2023.
When it comes to inviting, relaxing breaks, we have the ideal holiday for you...
Local pick up points from make it easy to get away.
Price includes return coach travel from: Bolton, Farnworth, Walkden, Eccles, Stretford, Sale, Altrincham, Lymm Services. All offers are subject to availability and standard terms and conditions (see brochure or website for T&C’s).
Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a Standard Room. Supplements apply on twin/double rooms with sole occupancy. Optional local excursions can be booked at the hotel. Many more coach or self-drive holiday dates available in 2022/23. If you would prefer to self-drive, deduct £20 per person from prices shown.
Offer ends 31st September 2023
10 fabulous locations, 12 great hotels.
Tonight, is the first Gala Night where we are welcomed to a Champagne Reception by our Captain.
Snow-capped mountains, azure blue skies, history, sea and inland waterways yet less than 90 minutes flying time from London, yes, Scotland, the Highlands and Western Isles, some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.
From Inverness airport it’s a short coach journey to Hebridean Islands Cruise ship, Lord of the Highlands, moored on the Caledonian Canal, my home for the next seven days.
My cabin on Richard Hannay deck is impressive, large picture window, single beds with stowage and drawer space under each, UK style electrical sockets, two usb ports by the beds, individual flexible reading lamps, wardrobe, drawers and shelves provide more than enough storage for the seven day voyage. Air conditioning, hair dryer, flat screen tv, kettle with tea/coffee/milk sachets, iron and little extras other ships don’t provide, shoe horn, shoe polish pad, clothes brush and dressing gowns. The bathroom boasts a large walk in shower, toilet, wash basin, extending magnifying mirror, large soft towels, complemented by toiletries of shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, shower cap, soap and much more, all bearing the Molton Brown name. Finally, a small decanter of Whisky and glasses await ready for that night cap and if Whisky is not your tipple, it can be changed for Gin or Brandy.
The following day, Tuesday, I wake to a clear sky and sunshine. After breakfast some depart on a visit to Culloden and Clava Cairns. I stay on board and take in what a beautiful vessel Lord of the Highlands is. Everything of the highest quality, woodwork, panelling, chairs, glass topped tables with inset marquetry, cutlery and glass ware. Lunch over, our transit of the canal begins. Gliding peacefully past the vast Inverness Tomnahurich Cemetery, banks of bright yellow gorse, moored canal boats and houses on the water’s edge. Onwards through swing bridges and locks to arrive at our overnight berth of Fort Augustus.
Wednesday, we continue along the canal berthing at Cullochy Lower. An area of flowering bushes, red and white in various stages of bloom are a delight, trees so tall they seem to touch the sky. We meet a group of canoeists having to take their canoes and drag/carry them as they are not allowed to paddle them through the lock. Back aboard we progress through locks, passing small villages, watching birds diving for fish, fields of sheep and a swan sitting with her young, fish causing ripples in the mirror smooth water can be seen. Following lunch, we moor at the head of Neptune’s Staircase. A set of 8 locks that lower the ship from the Caledonian Canal to sea level 64 feet below at Fort William. We have a choice, stay on board and go through the locks or to take the excursion, I decide on the excursion visiting the Glenfinnan Monument, erected in 1814 in memory of the Highlanders who fought in the Jacobite rising of 1745. There is a small gift shop and museum taking you through the area’s history. From this point can be seen the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Harry Potter fans would recognise this as the viaduct the Hogwarts Express passes over.
Now to visit Fort William on the shores of Loch Linnhe, ithe largest town in the Highlands, and see the sights of this old Scottish town which during the 2nd World War was home to HMS St. Christopher, a British Navy training unit. Fort William is popular with tourists as Glen Coe is nearby as is Ben Nevis, a favourite with climbers and hill walkers. Arriving back to the ship berthed at Corpath the ‘Hogwarts Express’ steams through the station to the delight of Harry Potter fans. Our mooring has views of Ben Nevis, the snow still visible to let us know that for this area winter is not long gone.
Thursday, we enter our 22nd and final lock, the ‘Sea Lock’ as we travel Loch Linnhe on route to Oban. On arrival the sun is shining from a clear blue sky, a great time to go ashore and visit one of my favourite towns in Scotland but not before the Whisky Vault Experience on board from a representative of the Oban Distillery. Oban’s a busy town with tourist and fishing boats plus the Caledonian MacBrayne ferries that travel between the islands. We sail as the sun is beginning to set for our overnight berth at Craignure on the Isle of Mull.
Friday begins with a coach trip to Duart Castle ancestral home to the Clan Maclean since the 14th Century. However, due to Clan Wars, the castle changed hands several times and became almost a ruin before being purchased in 1910 by Sir Fitzroy MacLean, 26th Clan Chief. Situated on a peninsular overlooking the Sound of Mull and the entrances to Lochs Linnie and Etive it affords breath taking vistas.
In the grounds are a tea shop selling wonderful homemade scones, fruit cake etc and a small but well stocked gift shop. Driving back to the ship, a bright sun shines from a cloudless blue sky, the fields have become alive with sheep and lambs, their white coats contrast with the rich yellow Set amongst gorse hedgerows and green grass, Highland cattle with their long horns and woolly coats ignore us as we pass.
Back on board it’s time to set sail again, this time for my all time favourite, Tobermory a small town on the Isle of Mull featuring brightly coloured houses, cafes, restaurants and shops, its busy small harbour making it a popular location for visitors to Western Scotland and used as the location for the children’s television programme ‘Balamory’. It’s a beautiful warm day and the small sand beach is busy with families. Another interesting visit is the Tobermory Distillery, one of the oldest in Scotland. We remain here overnight allowing passengers to explore the town in the evening.
Saturday, first port is the Isle of Eigg, an amazing island that the 90+ residents have taken into private ownership. Eigg truly has ‘picture postcard’ scenery, hills rolling down to silver sand beaches and inlets, fields that are home to over 1,400 sheep. Unfortunately, we were only here for a short time before crossing to Armadale on the Isle of Skye.
The excursion this afternoon is to Armadale Castle and Gardens now cared for by the Clan Donald Land Trust. The castle is now a ruin but you can imagine what a magnificent structure it used to be looking out over lawns to the sea.
A late afternoon departure as we head for our final berth of the journey, Kyle of Lochalsh arriving early evening.
Sunday, our last day, takes us on tours to Eilean Donan Castle believed to be named after the Irish saint, Bishop Doran and in the afternoon to Plockton often said to be the prettiest village in Scotland, and yes, it is beautiful with stunning views. The evening is the final Gala Night and in true Scottish tradition the Haggis is piped aboard and the ancient address made by the hotel manager. A fabulous ending to a great cruise.
Find out more
Alan travelled as a guest of Hebridean Island Cruises. Contact our Silver Travel Advisors on 0800 412 5678 to discover more about their Scottish voyages on Lord of the Highlands and Hebridean Princess.
Industry insiders and audiences of all ages loved his winning combination of understated emotion, light comedy touch and willingness to be an energetic part of the impressive action. Harrison’s film stock rode high.
He won more fans in the 1982 classic Blade Runner and then reprised his Han Solo role in 1983 with Star Wars: Return of the Jedi.
Roll on 1985 and he received an Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for his sensitive handling of the role of undercover cop John Book in the Amish community in another hit film Witness.
And he is still wowing audiences with his latest film – predictably as enduring favourite Indiana Jones.
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny is now delighting fans and box-offices around the world - the first of the highly successful series without Steven Spielberg behind the camera. Scroll back the takes to the 1940 Chicago childhood of young Harrison, though, and it’s hard to spot the superstar potential. An ordinary student who failed to excel at sports, he dropped out of Wisconsin’s Ripon College where he had done some acting and later Summer stock.
Harrison’s next move, however, was more noteworthy. He signed a Hollywood contract with Columbia and then later Universal, enjoying roles in some – admittedly, fairly unremarkable - films and TV series including Ironside and The Virginian. In fact, he was so discouraged that he turned to a career in professional carpentry before the silver screen called him back in 1973 for the surprise film hit American Graffiti.
Four years after that came that pivotal role as Han Solo in Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope where people worldwide paid attention to the soft-voiced young star with the charismatic personality.
Four years further on and Harrison was cast as swashbuckling archaeologist Indiana Jones in the first film Raiders of the Lost Ark.
Further success beckoned with subsequent Indiana Jones’ sequels Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984), Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989) and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008).
By the time the last film was released, the brand was perhaps looking in need of a refresh and adding popular British star Phoebe WallerBridge into the mix for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny as the college professor turned adventurer hero-s god-daughter certainly seems to be helping revive its fortunes.
The public’s love of Harrison Ford, though, has never wavered. And it has never seemed to matter what role or what genre was involved.
In the 1988 film Working Girl he impressed audiences in a contemporary romantic comedy alongside Melanie Griffith and Sigourney Weaver. The role seemed effortless for him and played a large part in the film’s enduring success.
He played thriller writer Tom Clancy’s engaging hero Jack Ryan in the excellent Patriot Games in 1992, following up the role two years later with another hit movie Clear and Present Danger. The following year, he earned a Golden Globe nomination for the part of Dr Richard Kimble in compelling thriller The Fugitive. Then in 1997 was promoted to President – be it an action-packed version – for the political thriller Air Force One.
Harrison is nothing if not flexible with his talents and in 1998, played the down-on-his luck pilot to Anne Heche’s stroppy New York magazine editor marooned together after a plane crash in Six Days Seven Nights.
More diversity came from the 2002 blockbuster K-19: The Widowmaker in which he played an inspirational leader in the historical submarine film charting the maiden voyage of a Soviet nuclear sub.
Part of Harrison Ford’s understandable popularity comes not just from an effortless acting style that offers relaxing viewing for audiences but also in his willingness to throw himself into the action, whatever it is.
He holds a private pilot’s licence and owns both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, providing emergency helicopter services on several occasions.
On set, his concern for his own safety seems equally cavalier. He scared director Steven Spielberg and the crew during the making of Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom when, without warning, he ran out across the rope bridge used in the film’s climax to test its safety.
Spielberg is later reported stating: “What can I say? Harrison really IS Indiana Jones.”
Nor is he an actor without his own ideas on the films in which he stars.
He is reported to have said: “It’s a little-known fact but I wanted Han Solo to die at the end of Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. I thought it would give more weight and resonance. But George Lucas wasn’t sympathetic. He didn’t want me killed by those teddy bear guys.”
Harrison was also apparently initially against casting Sean Connery
as his father in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade because Connery was only 12 years older than him.
He later changed his mind and found he enioyed working with the former Bond star immensely. Certainly, the screen chemistry underlines that result. Away from films, twice-divorced Harrison married Ally McBeal star Calista Flockhart in 2010. They have a son of their own and he has four other children from previous marriages.
He owns an 800-acre ranch in Wyoming, around half of which he has donated as a nature reserve. Harrison is known for his quiet and charming personality – a world away from the action-first heroes he has long played onscreen. Although it’s reported that Dial of Destiny is his last hurrah as Indiana Jones, Harrison isn’t sad. He told film website Decider:
by
Nor does this particular “ending” signal his screen retirement. Harrison can still be seen in the Paramount series 1923 alongside Helen Mirren.
“I’ve been able to deliver amazing films developed
Steven (Speilberg) and George (Lucas) over a 40-year period and to end it not with a whimper but a bang has been my greatest ambition for this excursion.”
A beautiful traditional market... there is something for everyone and lots to see and do “ ”
Award winning Victorian market with 250 stalls
· VISIT ·
A day out for everyone to enjoy!
From gourmet street food to dog friendly ice-cream, finely-crafted jewellery to designer clothing, bargain household goods to hand-made gifts and haberdashery - you’ll find it all and more at Fleetwood Market.
· Open · 9am to 4.30pm Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday
· Fully accessible and dementia friendly ·
Easy to find by tram, bus, coach or car! Victoria Street / Adelaide Street, Fleetwood, Lancashire FY7 6AB
Cash machine on site
We’re dog friendly!
Free coach parking
HOW DOES IT WORK?
On the morning of travel we pick you up at a prearranged time and take you to our waiting coach at Birch Services or Stockport.
And use some excellent privately-owned hotels. All visits and excursions are included in the price. We use moder n coaches ans mature friendly drivers.
WITHIN 30 MINUTES.
We normally have everyone on board and we’re on our way. We often have a second pickup at Stockport, but again this is timed for minimal delay.
SUPER HOTELS, ALL INCLUDED!
On the morning of travel we pick you up at a prearranged time and take you to out waiting coach a Birch Services.
We use a wide range of mainly 3 and 4 star hotels, some privately owned many part of larger chains. All entrances and excursions are included in the price stated.
WE
OUR RIVALS.
All our tours include our ‘Door to Door’ service
That means that you are picked up by a taxi or small minibus right from your front door. No feeders, no interchanges, no changing coaches, no
All our tours include our ‘Door to Door’ service. That means that you are picked up by a taxi or small minibus right from your front door. No feeders, no interchanges, no changing coaches, no changing drivers and definately no hassle!
We are members of the Bonded Coach Holiday group overseen by The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Ltd. This is a Government Approved Protection Scheme.
We normally have everyone on board and we’re on our way We often have a second pickup at Stockport, but again this is timed for minimal delay
The same happens on the way back too, taxi back to your front door!
COACHES AND DRIVERS.
We use modern executive coaches and all our drivers are experienced, mature and friendly!
WE
WHAT HAPPENS ON THE RETURN. Your taxi will be waiting for you to take you home.
TRAVEL INSURANCE?
therefore everybody on board pays the same price.
All our customers are offered our coach specific insurance, pre existing medical conditions are covered for UK travel with no upper age limit.
in the UK, we will refund the difference to the whole coach!
SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?
Nothing we can think of!
SAVE £10.00
Join our facebook community by ‘liking’ our page to view latest offers, customer comments and various photographs. ellensmithtours
We’ve been established for over 120 yearsso we know a bit about coaching holidays!
One stop shop, Appliances, Worktops and flooring available, everything under one roof
• Massive choice of traditional or modern
• Fabulous showroom with 60 displays open 7 days
• Owned by JJO Furniture Manufacturers offering very keen prices with a quality product
• Supply Only or Project Managed installation. All aspects covered
• Established over 150 years with five experienced designers plus CAD designer for outstanding visual aids
• ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ and other Finance Options available, subject to status
552360243
Bacup - 352-358 Newchurch Road, Stacksteads, Bacup. OL13 0LD Tel: 01706 252122
Oswaldtwistle - Oswaldtwistle Mills, Colliers Street, Oswaldtwistle. BB5 3DE Tel: 01254 304068
Ulverston - Kitchen House, Brogden/Market Street, Ulverston. LA12 7AH Tel: 01229 581828
www.rossendaleinteriors.com
I RECENTLY got together with many of my colleagues in the Northern Motoring Writers Group to mark the organisation’s 50th anniversary - and supporting our celebrations were those awfully nice people from Kia.
Set in an exclusive North Yorkshire country house hotel the event was an opportunity to drive the Korean manufacturer’s latest model line-up – particularly their EV, PHEV and HEV cars… which would have seemed very futuristic to those who set up the NMWG in 1973.
Five of the original group who began their car testing lives in the likes of Vauxhall Vivas, Ford Escorts and even the dreaded Austin Allegro were present to pass on their wisdom and bear testament to how much cars have developed over those five decades.
No car company is more advanced than Kia, which was unheard of in the UK back in the 1970s. I selected four of their line up to try, and re-try, starting with the tremendously popular Sportage HEV GTLine 1.6 T-GDi 2WD.
Now I spent a week with the Sportage earlier this year and was impressed with its design, performance and equipment… and it looks like a lot of others like it as well judging by the numbers that have appeared on our highways.
£35,270 on the road buys you 0 to 60 in 7.7 seconds from the petrol and electric engine combo plus a top speed of 120mph - but even more importantly in these belt-tightening times almost 50 mpg.
If you need even more economy then a full EV may be the way to go. The first of three was Kia’s popular Kia e-Niro, which has been with us for a few years now but has been upgraded and refreshed a number of times to now bring us the Kia Niro EV.
The latest version is the Kia Niro EV ‘4’ which has a 201bhp power train giving 0 to 62 in 7.8 seconds, a top speed of 103mph and a range of up to 375 miles in city driving - 285 on combined use.
Again kit levels are high for the £42,295 price tag including LED lighting, heated seats all round in ‘vegan’ leather (powered in the front), a smart power tailgate, heads up display plus two 10.25” driver info and entertainment screens, sat-nav, air con, wireless phone charging and much more.
Then it was on to the Niro’s big brother, the more recently launched Kia EV6, which again I had tested earlier this year.
They have kept the model range simple - just one battery size (77.4kWh) driving a single 226bhp rear-wheel drive motor or two for a more powerful (321bhp) all-wheel drive set up.
This Kia is not only more powerful than rivals it is lighter so no surprise then that the 0 to 60 time is just 6.9 seconds with a top speed of 114mph.
There are also just three well equipped trim levels - Air, GT-Line and GT-Line S. Air is rear-wheel drive only so you need to step up to GT-Line for all-wheel-drive.
As it is designed from the start to be an EV, the heavy battery pack is set low down giving improved handling and that single rear drive motor means lots of space for a generous passenger compartment. This EV also has a few tricks up its sleeve including vehicle-toLoad, where it can supply up to 3.6kW through an adaptor with a three-pin socket - enough to power a freezer during a power cut or even to top up a lesser EV.
The Kia EV6 Air starts at £45,245 rising to £48,245 for a rearwheel-drive GT-Line and £52,745 for our GT-Line S. A front motor for more power and four-wheel drive adds another £3,500. A super-hot 577bhp GT version is also available for £62,645.
And finally it was the turn of Kia’s cute small SUV the Soul EV. This is a car I had not tried before but it proved just as competent and characterful as its stable mate EVs. At £39,045 on the road the Soul EV has equivalent performance with 0-62mph coming up in a very respectable 7.9 seconds on the way to topping out at 104mph.
However, its electric range is even more impressive at up to 285 miles around town and 320 on longer runs. Like all Kia’s EVs a higher power charger is needed to get plug in times that are reasonable with the best getting from 10 to 80 percent in a little under an hour.
Also, like all Kias, the cars come with a seven year, 100,000 mile warranty.
For more info see www.kia.co.uk/bolton
For all the latest car tests see the motoring section of our website at www.50plusmagazine.co.uk/motors/
Bolton Kia - Europe’s No.1 Kia Dealer
79 The Linkway, Middlebrook Retail Park, Horwich, BL6 6JA 01204 664800 l kia.co.uk/bolton
Fuel consumption in mpg (I/100km) for the model shown: Combined 61.4 (4.6), CO2 emissions 106g/km.
MPG figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. The figures shown here are for limited comparison purposes; fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are tested using WLTP. Only compare fuel consumption, CO2 and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. For more information about WLTP please refer to kia.com/uk. Model shown: Niro Hybrid ‘4’ 1.6 GDi 1.32kWh 139bhp at £35,405 including premium Cityscape Green paint with Black C-Pillar at £745. Kia Niro Hybrid range available from £29,660. Specification varies across the range and is subject to change without notice.. Business users only. Quote valid from 02/08/23 - 30-08/23. *Offer available on Business Contract hire with advance rental of 6 months rental + VAT (£2381.40 + VAT), followed by 35 monthly rentals of £396.90 + VAT. Excess miles over contracted mileage of 8,000 miles per year (24,000 total contract mileage) over 36 months charged at 10.74 pence per mile (+VAT). Excess charges also apply if you breach manufacturer servicing or maintenance guidelines or if the car exceeds BVRLA Fair Wear & Tear guidelines for its age/mileage when it is returned to Kia Contract Hire. The total P11D value of the vehicle includes options, extras, manufacturer’s delivery and VAT. Total Effective Rental (applicable to cars only) is £436.59 (this assumes a 50% VAT disallowance on the Finance Rental and VAT). Contract Hire Customer Maintenance (inc. RFL). Package includes Vehicle Excise Duty for the agreement duration, we reserve the right to pass on future increases in the cost of Vehicle Excise Duty. Guarantee/indemnity may be required. Prices and details are subject to change without notice. For full specification and T&Cs contact your local retailer. Kia reserves the right to amend or withdraw offers at any time without prior notice. You will not own the car. ALD Automotive Ltd., trading as Kia Contract Hire, BS16 7LB. All quotations are for guidance only and are subject to credit approval. ALD Automotive Limited trading as Kia Contract Hire reserves the right to amend quotations in the event of changes to manufacturer prices, interest rates and volume related bonus. ALD Automotive Limited reserve the right to amend quotations in the event of any change to VAT/RFL or any other statutory charges or taxes which may become appropriate from time to time. All figures provided are for guidelines purposes only. 7 Year / 100,000 mile manufacturer’s Warranty. For full terms and conditions visit kia.com/uk. Kia UK Limited trading as Bolton Kia are a broker (not a lender) for the purposes of this financial promotion and can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers and may receive a commission from them for the introduction.
You could be forgiven for thinking that once a will has been written there are no other formalities to administer a person’s estate after they’ve passed away. After all, a will expresses who the deceased wanted to benefit from their estate and how much, or what, each beneficiary inherits. It’s a legal document that’s drawn up by a solicitor with an appointed executor – the person (or persons; you can have more than one) who administers the estate of someone who has passed away) – so you might wonder what probate has to do with it?
Well, a will in itself doesn’t grant authority to distribute an estate. It merely tells the executor(s) who gets what. To actually administer the estate – allocate the assets of the deceased person – the executor needs to obtain a grant of probate. This is a legal document which confirms that the executor
has the authority to deal with the deceased person's assets i.e. their money, property, jewellery, cars or any other possessions.
In an effort to save on costs, some executors attempt to carry out probate themselves. While there is a whole host of information
about how to do this on the internet, the process isn’t for the faint hearted and there are definite risks involved which could end up costing far more than instructing a solicitor in the first place.
If this is something an executor insists on doing, here’s a list of the things they need to be sure of before proceeding:
What exactly is in the will?
A silly question you may think, but to ensure the wishes of the will are carried out, the executor needs to clearly understand who is getting what. While this may be obvious, the will may stipulate that a beneficiary receives their inheritance at a specific point in time rather than as soon as probate has been granted. Also, is there a trust in the will? If so, this will have its own set of legal instructions which will need attending to.
Is the will actually valid? You’d be surprised how many people forget to sign it. Not only that, would you be able to tell the difference between a valid and an invalid will?
Being an executor is a responsible job and not one to be taken lightly. It’s vital that the processes and protocols are followed so that the estate is administered correctly, otherwise the executor can become personally accountable for any mistakes. More worryingly, beneficiaries can hold executors liable for things they haven’t done if they cause a loss to the estate through poor administration.
The law is no stranger to mind boggling jargon and for those who are unfamiliar with legal terminology, it can be difficult waters to navigate. Misunderstanding the terms of a will could also lead to being sued by disappointed beneficiaries.
As with death, the only other certainty in life is tax. Executors are responsible for paying any tax due to HMRC on behalf of the deceased. Inheritance tax is the obvious one that springs to mind, but there could be other taxes waiting to be paid before the remainder of the estate can be distributed.
The executor may even need to check the deceased person’s historic records of transactions to ensure that they don’t need reporting to HMRC. A final word of caution on this: failing to settle any outstanding debts could render the executor personally liable.
Put simply, there could be a lot. While some organisations will release money below certain limits without a grant of probate, most do need authority.
Getting hold of all the necessary paperwork from the banks, insurance policies, HMRC etc. can be a daunting task. In terms of properties to be transferred to beneficiaries, it’s the executor’s job to make sure the legal title is transferred correctly or, again, they can be sued for loss to a beneficiary.
Probate is complicated and ignorance of the process is no defence in the eyes of the law. It may appear cheaper to ‘DIY’ but if there’s even the slightest doubt about the capability of obtaining and carrying out the duties associated with a grant of probate, it’s always far wiser to seek legal advice.
At Russell & Russell, there is a team of specially trained probate solicitors who can provide advice and guidance through this complex area of the law. The firm offers a free consultation, so that you can understand what’s required and how to resolve any issues. Call 0800 103 2600 to book an appointment or fill in the contact form on the website and someone will call you back.
www.russellrussell.co.uk
Like any big project, it’s best to see your preferred builder’s work beforehand and get an idea of what previous customers’ experiences have been. Fortunately, these days just going online can usually throw up useful reviews and sites like Mybuilder.com can give a good overview of local builders.
The same care in choice applies to new WINDOWS. We take the effects of doubleglazing for granted these days but now that we are so conscious of our energy bills having good, double-glazed windows makes real sense.
MAKING a house into a home in 2023 has become more complicated financially thanks to higher interest rates, soaring energy costs and general inflation.
We may have had to put major improvement plans on hold until the situation looks more positive but it’s still possible to improve your lifestyle on a budget right now.
So, the key this year may be to opt for just one change that will make your home-life more enjoyable, comfortable and simply better.
Since lockdown, we have all spent more time at home and our lives are definitely more involved with our property than ever. We socialize more there, spend more family time there and enjoy more home-based activities.
So, we deserve to have the best surroundings we can afford. Whether this year that means a big project or just a small change, it’s a great time to invest in your lifestyle.
Big projects can include an EXTENSION OR CONSERVATORY to give you more much-needed space and which can be as big or small as you feel financially able.
The good news is that conservatories and extensions fall under the same building rules and are classed as permitted developments.
This means that most of them will not need planning permission but this is subject to some specific rules so it’s best to check with your local planning authority first.
Dougle-glazed windows come in all shapes and sizes and not only make your home more energy efficient but also add to the value of your property. New frames also look much smarter than old, decaying frames to give your home a real face-lift.
Another big project that can really alter your home is new FLOORING throughout. This can be new carpets or you may prefer floor tiles or wooden flooring.
Experts say the trend for carpets in 2023 is for bright colours and bold patterns, checked carpets and gold shades. Woodgrain remains a contemporary favourite but any real change will brighten up your home.
If your KITCHEN is in need of updating it’s definitely worth investing in new units. Modern kitchens tend to be minimalist and clutter-free so go for simple, clean looks that fit your lifestyle.
Monochrome colour schemes with large windows to allow plenty of natural light form a main kitchen image currently but a local kitchen expert can help you make the most of what space you have available.
A way to cut costs, however, is to just opt for new unit doors or worktops in a useful makeover. There are plenty of firms around offering this kind of new kitchen look. Again, checking out previous reviews will help you make the best choice.
A new FRIDGE OR FREEZER is a more modest buy that can really alter how your kitchen style and storage. Big American fridges fulfill both functions and can add a special cachet to a kitchen. Shop around online and in-store for the best bargains.
For the LIVING ROOM, investing in a new SOFA and/or COMFY CHAIRS is an expense you can justify every time you sit watching
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the TV or have a cosy evening in with your partner or friends.
This can prove an expensive buy but you can cut costs considerably by going for second-hand furniture instead. Charities like Emmaus and the British Heart Foundation have their own furniture premises so find out if there is one near you at emmaus.org.uk orbhf.org.uk.
Another cost-cutter is to go for tailormade new covers for your existing sofa and chairs - which really brings them back to life!
Buying new CURTAINS is another investment which can really change the look of a room. This, though, needn’t be a major project. There’s plenty of choice around or buy the material yourself from a mill or discount outlet and find a good seamstress or sewing firm to make them up.
Vibrant facilities including bistro and salon
Gym with specialist equipment to improve wellbeing
Bespoke day care service
Extensive programme of activities and events
Some fabric companies actually make them free if you buy the material from them so it’s worth investigating.
Investing in RE-DECORATING is also never wasted. Traditional neutrals like grey, taupe and timber brown can add a calm feel to any room although warmer, richer tones are still popular.
Get creative with an accent wall, too. Now that so many of us work from home, having an attractive background for Zoom calls is important – and no-one believes you’ve read all those books behind you, anyway!
Natural wood effect wallpaper is rustic and charming and bringing Nature indoors very much on trend. Alternately, vivid colours and designs can say much about your personality and personalize your background.
One buy that can really transform a room is a new FIREPLACE
Heat output used to be the most important thing as people didn’t necessarily have central heating, but now it’s the decorative style that matters more.
Energy efficiency may be paramount but equally important is the visual appeal that adds to home décor.
The trend towards open-plan homes means that fireplaces are more important than ever as a central feature.
World-renowned chef Theo Randall shares his 10 pantry staples and reveals his favourite ways to cook with them showcasing the best of Italian home cooking.
This creamy and comforting soup is a lovely way to use wild garlic, which is always in abundance in the UK around early springtime. If you want to make it when wild garlic is not in season, you can substitute the wild garlic for baby leaf spinach and add a garlic clove (crushed with salt) to the cream. Alternatively, pick wild garlic in season and freeze it so you can enjoy it year-round.
Ingredients
l 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
l 2 leeks, finely chopped
l 1 teaspoon chopped thyme leaves
l 200g (7oz) Désirée or Cyprus potatoes, peeled and cut into 1cm (½in) pieces
l 30g (1oz) dried porcini mushrooms, just covered in boiling water and left to soak, drained and finely chopped
l 500ml (17fl oz) chicken or vegetable stock
l 200ml (7fl oz) double (heavy) cream
l 75g (2½oz) wild garlic leaves, roughly chopped
l sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Method
Heat the oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Add the leeks, thyme, potatoes, chopped rehydrated porcini and a good seasoning of sea salt. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently, then add the chicken or vegetable stock and simmer very gently for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through and tender. Add half the cream, then use a stick blender to blitz the soup to a purée. The
soup should coat the back of a spoon, but if you think it’s too thick then you can add some hot water. Pour the remaining cream into a small saucepan over a medium heat. Add the wild garlic and cook gently, until it is wilted, then use the stick blender to blitz until just smooth. Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to taste, then spoon it into warmed bowls. Top each portion with a dollop of creamed wild garlic and serve.
My mother used to make the most delicious lasagne – I used to get so excited when I knew it was coming. She was brilliant at making the béchamel sauce – it was always perfectly creamy but never thick and floury. The trick to this was to cook it very slowly and use equal quantities of flour and butter. This is a vegetable lasagne, but it has as much flavour as the traditional meaty offering because you roast the aubergines (eggplant) first. Try to use egg-based lasagne sheets as they tend to have more flavour and are not as brittle when you cook them (or, better still, make your own sheets of pasta).
l 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
l 2 red onions, finely sliced
l 500g (1lb 2oz) courgettes (zucchini), cut into 1cm (½in) rounds
l 1 garlic clove, finely sliced
l 500g (1lb 2oz) tomato passata
l 8 basil leaves, roughly torn
l 3 aubergines (eggplants), sliced into 2cm (¾in) rounds
l 300g (10½oz) egg-based dried lasagne sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
l For the béchamel
l 75g (2½oz) unsalted butter
l 75g (2½oz) plain (all-purpose) flour
l 500ml (17fl oz) whole milk, warmed to just below boiling point
l 150g (5½oz) parmesan, grated, plus extra for sprinkling
Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/400°F/Gas 6. Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Once hot, add the onions, courgettes (zucchini) and a good seasoning of salt. Cook for 20 minutes, until the onion and courgettes are soft. Heat another tablespoon of the olive oil in a separate saucepan, then add the garlic. Fry the garlic for 30 seconds, then add the passata and cook the mixture gently for 20 minutes, until reduced by half. Season with salt and pepper, then stir through the basil. Brush both sides of the aubergine (eggplant) slices with olive oil and season them with salt. Place the aubergines in an even layer on a baking sheet lined with baking paper. Bake them for 15 minutes, then turn them over and bake them for a further 15 minutes. Remove the slices from the oven and, when they are cool enough to handle, cut them into half-moons. Set them aside and leave the oven on. To
make the béchamel, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over a low heat. When the butter has melted, add the flour and cook it out for a couple of minutes, stirring to combine. Next, add the hot milk and stir continuously to avoid any lumps forming. Cook the sauce gently for 20 minutes, stirring all the while, until smooth and thickened, then mix in the parmesan and check the seasoning. Leave to one side. Mix the aubergines, courgettes, onions and tomato sauce together in a large bowl and check that everything is seasoned well. Use the remaining olive oil to oil a baking dish, then place a layer of lasagne sheets in the base of the dish. Add one-third of the vegetable mixture in an even layer, then top this with one-quarter of the béchamel sauce. Repeat this twice more, then finish with a layer of lasagne sheets and a final layer of béchamel sauce. Sprinkle the top with some more parmesan, then bake the lasagne for 35 minutes, until the pasta is cooked and the top is golden. Serve with a little extra grated parmesan on top, if you like.
I love cime di rapa. When it first comes into season, I tend to make either this recipe or orecchiette con cime di rapa. The combination of the greens and anchovy is a classic from Puglia, and with the addition of grilled lamb chops (or a grilled, marinated leg of lamb, if you prefer) you just can’t go wrong. The cime di rapa takes longer to cook than you would think, so blanch it for the same amount of time you would cabbage.
Ingredients
l 1 rack of lamb, fat peeled off and discarded
l 1kg (2lb 4oz) cime di rapa or 500g (1lb 2oz) Tenderstem broccoli
l 105ml (3¾fl oz) extra-virgin olive oil
l 1 garlic clove, sliced
l pinch of fennel seeds, crushed in a pestle and mortar
l ½ teaspoon chopped rosemary leaves
l 1 x 50g (1¾oz) can of anchovies in olive oil juice of 1 lemon
l sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Using a sharp knife, cut between each bone in the rack of lamb to give 8 chops. Place 1 lamb chop into a freezer bag with a few drops of water. Place the chop in the bag on a chopping board so that the eye of the meat is flat and facing upwards. Using the base of a small saucepan, bash the lamb using short, sharp bashes to evenly flatten the chop and increase its size. Repeat for the remaining chops. Wash the cime di rapa and rip off the outer leaves. Keep the tender young leaves on the stem. Bring a pan of salted water to a boil over a high heat. Add the greens, bring the water back to a boil and boil them for 5 minutes. Drain the greens in a colander then roughly chop them. Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a medium saucepan. Add half the garlic and all the crushed fennel
seeds and cook for 30 seconds, then add the chopped greens and cook gently for 3 minutes. Check the seasoning and keep warm. In a pestle and mortar, crush the remaining sliced garlic with the chopped rosemary and a pinch of sea salt to form a paste. Add the anchovy fillets and work everything together until smooth. Add the lemon juice and slowly add all but 1 tablespoon of the remaining olive oil, so the sauce is emulsified. Keep to one side. Heat a griddle pan over a high heat so that it starts to smoke. Season the lamb chops with salt and pepper and the last tablespoon of olive oil. Place the chops on the griddle and cook them for 2 minutes on one side and 1 minute on the other. Transfer the chops to a warm plate to rest for 1 minute. To serve, place the cooked cime di rapa in the middle of each plate with 4 scottadito chops on top, then drizzle over the anchovy sauce.
This has to be one of the easiest and tastiest cheesecakes around. Ricotta is used in place of cream cheese, making for a much lighter mouthful, however this means that it’s important to allow enough time for the cheesecake to set fully – ideally you’d make it a day in advance. The best ricotta to use for this is sheep’s milk ricotta, but you will only find this in Italian delis or in a farm shop that sells local cheese. Ricotta is in fact the by-product of cheese making – it’s made by reheating the whey that has separated from the curds, then draining the coagulated top into a fine sieve. The solids are sold as ricotta and any remaining liquid is traditionally fed to pigs.
l 200g (7oz) cantuccini biscuits
l 75g (2¾oz) unsalted butter
l 50g (2oz) light brown soft sugar
l 500g (1lb 2oz) ricotta, drained
l 100g (3½oz) mascarpone
l zest and juice of 2 Amalfi lemons, plus extra zest to serve
l 125g (4½oz icing (confectioner’s) sugar, sifted
Tip the cantuccini into a food processor and blitz them to a fine crumb. Alternatively, place them in a Ziplock bag and bash them with a rolling pin or saucepan. Set aside. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over a low heat, then add the blitzed cantuccini biscuits and the sugar. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute, then take the pan off the heat. Tip the mixture into a 22cm (8½in) non-stick springform cake tin, pressing the buttery crumbled biscuits over the base to create a biscuit base. Transfer the tin to the fridge while you make the ricotta filling. Using a hand-held electric whisk or a wooden spoon, beat together the ricotta, mascarpone, lemon zest and juice and icing (confectioner’s) sugar in a large mixing bowl for 4 minutes, until the mixture is creamy and light. Spoon the ricotta mixture into the springform tin and spread it out into an even layer over the base. Refrigerate to set for a minimum of 3 hours, but preferably overnight, before releasing the cheesecake from the tin. Transfer it to a serving plate and top with extra lemon zest before slicing.
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Facing the breakdown of a marriage or long term relationship is one of the most stressful life experiences with a whole range of emotional turmoil – from anger and distress to thoughts of loss and the worry of an uncertain future. So, it is crucial that you obtain expert legal advice at an early stage.
Each family, marriage or relationship is unique and it is never a case of one size fits all. Obtaining advice face to face from a qualified professional is very important. At Clough and Willis, we
pride ourselves on providing support, empathy and guidance at each and every step. We understand that trust is at the core of everything we do and so it is vital for you to feel comfortable with us. We are confident that at the end of the process you should feel that you have maintained your dignity and self respect and can move on with your life.
The following are some examples of the questions that are put to us on a regular basis.
1. My wife and I have agreed to separate. We have been led to believe that it is possible to apply for a divorce based upon the fact that we have simply grown apart. Is this correct?
No. The sole ground for divorce, is the irretrievable breakdown of your marriage. If you want to apply for a divorce immediately then there are two reasons available namely adultery or that one of you has behaved in such a way that the other cannot reasonably be expected to live with you. We will be able to
advise you whether the “behaviour” complained of is sufficient. The majority of people are often surprised that it is not necessary to go into too much detail or to exaggerate. Alternatively, if you and your wife agree, one of you could apply for a divorce after you have lived separately for over two years provided the other is prepared to provide their written agreement.
2. My husband and I would like to try and reach an amicable settlement regarding our financial position. However, at present I do not feel confident that I know enough about my husband’s circumstances to reach an informed decision. Are you able to suggest a way forward?
Yes. It will be necessary for your husband to provide what is referred to as full and frank disclosure of his income, capital and pension provision and to provide documents in support. Once you are satisfied this has been done then negotiations can begin which will hopefully result in an amicable agreement which can be made binding by the Court by way of a Consent Order.
3. My wife and I have decided there is no future in our marriage. We have two young children whose upbringing I have been actively involved in given that I am quite fortunate to have very flexible working arrangements. I believe it would be good for the children for this to continue but I do not think my wife will agree because this may affect the amount she receives by way of a financial settlement and maintenance. Is there any point perusing shared care?
Yes, there certainly is. The paramount consideration is the welfare of the children. It is what is in their best interests, not for your wife in terms of the financial settlement. The arrangements for the children must be resolved before the financial settlement. It would be much better for your family as a whole if you and your wife were able to reach an agreement rather than the Court having to impose a decision upon you. You could try and resolve matters at Family Mediation.
We would be able to refer you to an appropriate service. If you are unable to agree then you could make an application to the Court for a Child Arrangements Order. These Orders are becoming more commonplace given that a lot of fathers like you have more flexible working arrangements and many women now work full time and require more help with childcare. The arrangements do not have to actually be an exact division of time on a 50\50 basis.
Planting late-blooming flowers in your garden is a natural and easy way to add colour and beauty to your outdoor area, even as the year progresses. There are several plants that can brighten up your garden even as the weather starts to turn and the dark nights draw ever closer.
Sedums, commonly known as stonecrops, are a group of succulent plants that often bloom in late summer or early autumn. They have attractive fleshy foliage and produce clusters of star-shaped flowers in colours such as pink, red, or white. As sedums are succulents, though, their leaves can store water well, so it’s important to let the soil dry out between waterings.
Chrysanthemums are known for their lateseason blooms, which come in a wide range of colours and forms. They usually bloom from late summer through autumn, providing vibrant displays in gardens, and are easy to look after. Chrysanthemums need a lot of sunlight and water in the summer, but a layer of mulch around them in the winter should be enough to keep them healthy.
Popular late-blooming perennials, Michaelmas Daisies, also called asters, produce masses of daisy-like flowers in various shades of purple, pink, and white from late summer through autumn, attracting pollinators to the garden. Planting them in your garden is an excellent way to bring colour and nature to your garden for extensive periods of time.
A perennial flower that also blooms from late summer through to early autumn is the Japanese Anemone. It features elegant, cup-shaped flowers in shades of pink or white, and its tall stems make it an excellent choice for borders or cottage gardens.
Autumn Crocus, also known as meadow saffron, is another good option, if you want to keep your garden as colourful as possible for as long as possible. They produce beautiful, delicate flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white and typically bloom in late summer to early autumn. Autumn crocus are a lovely addition to flower beds or woodland areas.
Nerines are bulbous plants that bloom in late summer or early autumn, producing striking funnel-shaped flowers in vibrant shades of pink or red. They are often grown in containers or rock gardens, so if you have either of these features in your garden, then nerines could be the ideal plant for you.
Helenium, also known as sneezeweed, is a perennial flower that adds a burst of colour to the garden either later in the summer months or in early autumn. It features daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red and thrives in either full sun or partial shade.
Another common and popular late-season flower is Dahlias. They come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colours, and typically bloom from mid-summer through autumn, providing a spectacular display of vibrancy in gardens and floral arrangements. Dahlias are perhaps one of the most effective ways of prolonging the summer months, at least visually anyway.
Creating a cosy outdoor space in your garden doesn't have to break the bank, and with a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can transform your outdoor area into a welcoming and relaxing retreat without spending a fortune.
Start by selecting and defining the area you want to turn into a cosy outdoor space as this will dictate what is possible and achievable. This could be a patio, deck, or even a corner of your garden. Use outdoor rugs, potted plants, or decorative stones to create boundaries and give the space a sense of purpose.
Incorporating natural elements into your outdoor space to create a soothing atmosphere is a cost-effective way of upscaling your garden. Use large potted plants, hanging baskets, or create a small herb garden to generate a sense that you are in nature, providing a feeling of escapism. You can also use natural materials like wood and stones for seating or as decorative accents.
Comfortable seating is essential for creating a cosy outdoor space. Look for budget-friendly options such as second-hand furniture, repurposed pallets, or even DIY seating made from old tires or
wooden crates. Add cushions and outdoor pillows to make the seating more inviting.
Another essential element to add is providing lighting, as it plays a crucial role in creating a cosy ambiance. Opt for inexpensive options like string lights, lanterns, or solar-powered lights, and hang string lights overhead or wrap them around tree branches or fencing to create a warm and inviting glow. Place lanterns or candles strategically around the space for a touch of elegance.
Even though British summers are notoriously unreliable, creating shade is important for making a comfortable outdoor space, especially during hot days. If you don't have natural shade from trees, consider using affordable options like a sunshade sail, outdoor umbrella, or even a DIY pergola made from wooden beams or bamboo.
It is also possible to create a fire pit yourself without spending excessive amounts of money. A fire pit can act as a focal point in your outdoor space and create a warm and inviting atmosphere for when you are hosting family and friends while also making your garden inviting all year round. Instead of purchasing an expensive fire pit, consider building your own using inexpensive materials like bricks or cinder blocks.
If you enjoy spending time outdoors, consider adding some budget-friendly entertainment options. Hang a hammock for lazy afternoons, set up a small portable speaker for music, or create a DIY outdoor movie screen using a white sheet and a projector for movie nights under the stars.
And finally, add personal touches to your outdoor space to make it feel like your own. Hang artwork or photographs, create a small garden with your favorite flowers, or incorporate items that reflect your personal style and interests. These small details will make your cosy outdoor space feel inviting and unique.
This article was written by a representative of Sutton Manor Nursery.
Summer may be synonymous with harvesting crops, fruits, and vegetables that are ready to be eaten and consumed, but there are still several veggies that you can sow now, so they are ready to be picked in the autumn.
Although they may not be one of the most common vegetables consumed in Britain, radishes are a quick-growing vegetable that are perfect for summer growing. They can be ready to harvest in as little as four weeks and are considered one of the easiest crops to grow. As they require minimal space to grow, they can be planted in small containers, raised beds, or even between other crops in a traditional garden.
Lettuce and salad greens are also good choices for summer planting, as like radishes, certain varieties are also quick growing. Varieties such as black-seeded simpson, salad bowl, and oakleaf mature in around six to eight weeks. Other loose-leaf vegetables, including arugula and spinach, can be down in summer for a continuous harvest throughout autumn.
Meanwhile, Kale is a hardy vegetable that thrives in cool weather and is also considered a ‘super food’ meaning you can continue to take in its health benefits as the winter approaches. Sow kale seeds in late summer, and you can enjoy tender leaves well into autumn and even winter.
Swiss chard is another leafy green, albeit far more uncommon that lettuce or spinach, that can be sown in summer. It has colorful stems and large, nutritious leaves, and you can harvest the outer leaves as needed, allowing the plant to continue growing long into the autumn months.
A versatile vegetable that can be sown in summer for an autumn harvest is beetroot. The red vegetable can be used in salads, puddings, and soups. And with both the roots and the greens being edible, it’s a great choice for maximising yield and minimising any waste.
Carrots are an absolute staple vegetable for so many British households and have multiple health benefits from being full of vitamin C to actually helping you seen in the dark. You should sow carrot seeds in late summer for a fall harvest, but make sure to choose varieties with shorter maturity times to ensure they have enough time to develop before the first frost.
Traditionally, turnips have often been used to feed livestock, but they can also be turned into tasty meals for humans with the right recipe. Turnips are fast-growing root vegetables that can be sown in summer and can be harvested when the roots are young and tender, making them ideal for picking in the autumn.
After 18 years at our town centre location we have decided to relocate to Bromley Cross.
Offering a more modern environment both from our clinical and technical need. Our new location also has better parking facilities.
Many denture wearers suffer with poor fitting, worn out or artificial looking dentures that cause the wearer to feel a lack of confidence in their dentures. This can present itself when chewing or even by just worrying about the denture dropping during a conversation. All these are issues that Bolton Denture Centre specialise in correcting.
A Clinical Dental Technician (CDT) is a qualified dental technician that has under gone further Education and Training to gain a Diploma in Clinical Dental Technology as Awarded by the Royal Collage of Surgeons (RCS).
At Bolton Denture Centre our clinician is one of the first registered Clinical Dental Technicians in the country, and able to offer
a bespoke service of treating the patient AND making the denture in the laboratory.
Over recent years there have been many improvements in both the way we construct dentures and in the materials and denture teeth that we use. This means that the end result looks more natural than ever before. Why not call for a FREE Consultation to find out more about these new innovations in denture design and manufacture?
Hewlett Court was opened by the East Lancashire Masonic Charity [ELMC] in 1979 as Sheltered Accommodation for the Elderly. Hewlett Courts aim is to provide good quality, affordable accommodation with support services tailored to meet individual’s needs.
Hewlett Court supports individuals in an independent, safe and caring environment.
We understand that moving from your home into a communal living setting can be a very difficult and momentous decision, for both the potential individual and their Families. We are here to support that decision to ensure the right conclusion is made for all concerned.
Hewlett Court prides itself on providing a warm, friendly, Family environment.
The Staff are all dedicated to ensuring that each individual have control over their own lives, to encourage them to make their own choices and opportunities to maintain their independence, encouraging them to play an active role in the improvement and development of the services provided. Hewlett Court continually look at ways to improve the amenities and to provide the best service available.
There is a varied menu at Hewlett Court providing three home cooked meals per day, including any special dietary needs.
For more information please contact: Beverley Schofield on 01204 88 6552 beverley.schofield@hewlettcourt.org.uk
Location
Hewlett Court is situated in Holcombe Brook on the north side of Bury near the foot of Holcombe Hill. The Home is close to the local amenities; shops, post office and Doctors Surgery.
Mary M – You can go and look around Bury and you won’t find any another facilities like Hewlett Court. The food is excellent and the staff are very obliging. Everyone enjoys all the entertainment and the outings that are free. We can come and go as we like
Julie – I really enjoy it, myself and my Sister have been made to feel welcome and have made lots of friends. I enjoy the baking classes and all the activities.
John – I am very happy at Hewlett Court, I feel safe and well looked after. The staff are very helpful and the food is excellent.
Doreen B - Just fabulous, a great place to be. Nothing is too much trouble. Fantastic staff and a friendly, clean, homely place.
Location:
Hewlett
