50 Plus magazine Cheltenham & Gloucester

CHELTENHAM & GLOUCESTER MAY - JULY 2012

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Formerly Retired Magazine

EDITION 19

Ruth

Madoc

TALKS ABOUT LIFE AFTER GLADYS PUGH

Inside LEISURE DISCOVER DUBROVNIK A TIMELESS BEAUTY COACH HOLIDAYS 2012 WITH HOME PICK UPS

Rick Stein

SHARES HIS FAVOURITE DISHES FROM AROUND THE WORLD

HOME AWARD WINNING RETIREMENT VILLAGE RICHMOND PAINSWICK

FREE

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ake on

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s

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You’re unique.

So are we.

At Amber Wood Care Home, we make sure we put personal relationships first. You’re one of a kind and we want it to stay that way. We believe a care home should be a home first and foremost.

Amber Wood offers exceptional care and support, in beautiful and comfortable surroundings. So you can feel well and truly at home.

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Amber Wood Care Home, in Cheltenham is a purpose built home offering nursing, residential and dementia care. It has been furnished throughout by our professional team to exceptionally high standards, providing elegance and comfort but above all a warm, homely and welcoming environment. You decide what you do and when you want to do it and friends and family can visit any time.

count. Amber Wood Care Home offers a range of services for long and short stays.

At Amber Wood our highly trained staff are leading the way in nursing and dementia care and making a real difference to the lives of our residents and their families.

For more information or to arrange a visit please call 01242 279 582 or email Manager@amber-wood.org.uk

It’s through understanding each individual, their likes and dislikes and their life story that our specialist teams can provide personal care with a real difference. Our staff are trained to make every moment

Amber Wood Care Home

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“I have been most impressed with all aspects of the home; the quality of the accommodation, the administration, the food, but above all, the kindness and professionalism of your staff.�

Nursing, Residential & Dementia Care 58 Whittington Road Cheltenham Gloucestershire, GL51 6BL www.amberwood-carehome.co.uk

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TRAVEL & LEISURE

Inside this issue ...

8-9

10

5

Coach Holidays 2012 From Yeomans Travel

6-7

Getting the Most from your Holiday Tips for the perfect Holiday

8-9

Dubrovnik A Timeless Beauty

FOOD & DRINK 18-20 Rick Steins' Recipe Pages Rick's favourite recipes 21

14-15

16-17

HOME 16-17 How Assisted Living Really Works Richmond Painswick Retirement Village 22

18-20

24-25

Traditional Cotswold Pub and Restaurant The Edgemoor Inn

Consider German Heating Now A Real Alternative to Oil/Gas Heating.

McGrath Regional Media.

Unit 6 | Moses Gate Workshops | Gladys Street Bolton | BL3 2QG. T: (01204) 796 494 | F: (01204) 791594 e: mcgrathadmin@btconnect.com

✁

Magic Mouse Would you like to ...

Keep in touch with friends and family by email?

Do your supermarket shop, pay bills or book a holiday on line?

Use the internet to check bus timetables or research your family tree?

These are a few of the things YOU could be doing on a computer.

We tailor sessions to your needs and we understand that using a computer for the first time can be rather daunting. Our Magic Mouse computer sessions offer friendly one-to-one tuition for the over 50s by experienced volunteers who are keen to pass on their computer knowledge to you.

Telephone 01452 422660 for more information about Magic Mouse sessions at our Gloucester city centre offices or in your home.

Age UK Gloucestershire, Bleak House, 26 Station Road, Gloucester GL1 1EW. 4

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

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Experience nature’s magnificent theatre on this super break to the Floriade World Horticultural Expo, staged only once every 10 years. The expo showcases the worlds most exquisite flowers, plants trees, fruits and vegetables.

PRICE INCLUDES Four nights ensuite accommodation at the 4 star Van Der Valk Hotel in Venlo. Entrance in to the Floriade Expo Excursion to Arnhem and the Airborne Museum in Oosterbeek. Visit to Arcen and the Castle Tuinen with time to explore.

Our base just outside the city of Cambridge gives us time to explore this beautiful area of England.

PRICE INCLUDES Four nights ensuite accommodation at the four star Menzies Cambridge Hotel. Two hour Guided tour of Cambridge. Visit to Audley End House and Gardens, one of England’s grandest stately homes. Cruise on the river Cam. Visit to the National Horse Racing museum in Newmarket and the town of Bury St Edmunds with free time to explore.

This tour showcases some of the most dramatic and beautiful Scottish vistas.

PRICE INCLUDES One nights ensuite accommodation at the 4 star Holiday Inn, Edinburgh & Four nights ensuite accommodation at the 3 star Scotland’s Hotel, Pitlochry. City tour showing us Edinburgh Castle, The Palace of Holyrood House and the Scottish Parliament. Drive to Aberfeldy for a Mountain Safari. Visit to Blair Castle housing beautiful paintings, armour and china. Visit to the Highland Folk Museum and a train ride on the Strathspey steam railway.

Discover the unspoilt beauty of this region and take in the great vistas of the Antrim Coast and Giants Causeway.

PRICE INCLUDES Ensuite accommodation at three 3-4 star hotels during our holiday. Guided city tour of Belfast with some free time after. Visit to the Giants Causeway for a short stop before a visit to Bushmills, the oldest distillery in the world. Visit to Mount Stewart House, one of Ireland's most magnificent country homes, and Newcastle, a popular seaside resort.

This holiday is based in St Annes on Sea set on the Fylde coast. The resort offers a gentle way of life and makes an ideal base to explore.

PRICE INCLUDES Three nights ensuite accommodation at the Lindum Hotel, St Annes on Sea. Ride on the Embsay and Bolton Abbey railway before continuing to Skipton. Cruise along the 200 year old Leeds and Liverpool canal. Visit to ‘Bygone Times’ a shopping centre which houses antiques, collectables, memorabilia and nostalgia.

This fantastic three day tour combines the opportunity for some Christmas shopping and visiting the famous Thursford Christmas Show. The show which started in 1977 is now the most popular Christmas show in England. A show which would not be out of place in any of London's west end theatres.

PRICE INCLUDES Two nights ensuite accommodation at the Ramada hotel situated on the outskirts of Norwich. Half day excursion to Norwich. Ticket to the Thursford Show.

Getting the most from your holiday ...

WIN

HOLIDAYS provide that get-away-from-it-all feeling that we all need at some time of Take a look at our full • Admire the Sussex Coastsimply as a change from normal routine. the year • Explore the wonderful South Downs • Visit charming Arundel 5 DAYS They rejuvenate us Dep: Jun 14 • Jul 19 • Aug 16

range of 2010/2011 and re-charge brochures…

the “body batteries” that create WAS £299 NOW £229 the spark that keeps us going for the rest of the Weston-super-Mare & year. But making Longleat the right choices for your holiday • Visit majestic Longleat House – and following some simple rules • Explore the awe-inspiring Cheddar Gorge beforehand - becomes far more 5 DAYS important when we get older and Dep: Jul 19 • Aug 9 are less prepared to go on largely WAS £329 NOW £279 unplanned trips which seemed so Loch exciting Lomond & when we were younger.

The Highland Line

• Journey on the West Line market, at home Today, theHighland holiday • Take in the views of Loch Lomond or further • Visit bustling Glasgow afield, offers a mass of choices and plenty of 5 DAYSpotential value. So the best way to start your planning Dep: Jul 12, 26 • Aug 2

is to decide whether you want to stay in the UK or £249 in the UK can vary from popular seaside resorts to sleepy villages, and from hotels bristling Great Yarmouth & with activities to remote country cottages with only the Norfolk Broads • Enjoywildlife the Norfolk Broads for company.

WAS not. £299Holidays NOW

a Weekend Break for 2!

Escorted A: 48coach B:tours 49are popular C: 50

with older people who prefer everything arranged for them.

Name: “There are plenty available,” says Carol, “from a tour around the ScottishAddress: Highlands to going through the Canadian Rockies. Cruises have also become very popular with older travellers, with adult-only ships if that’s what you prefer.”

Postcode:

“Plan your holiday right from leaving home to reaching Order your your destination at the other end of your journey,“ Carol. “There are lots of services on offer copiesadvises that are aimed at making your travelling experience comfortable, but one basic is to check luggage today!more £359 Decide first of all exactly what you want from your allowances beforehand as these vary with airlines.”

• East Anglia’s transport museum • Explore historic Norwich 8 DAYSAnd if you want to go outside the UK, well, as Arthur Dep: Jul 3 • Aug graphically 7, 21 • Sep 4 Daley put it “the world is your lobster!”

WAS

accommodation becomes even more important if you have health and/or mobility problems. “Is the resort flat or is it going to be hilly?” adds Carol. “Some hotels For your chance to WIN a Weekend Break for 2, mayin not have easy for the staying a Shearings hotel, access simply answer question below and in the entry form below: someone withfillwalking difficulties and you need to know about this beforehand.”

How many hotels do Shearings own?

£439

NOW

Telephone:

If you would like to receive emails about future special offers and news from Shearings - please supply your email address below:

Email:

We may occasionally pass your details onto selected 3rd parties, if you do not want this to happen please tick here

rogrammeholiday and sightseeing excursions.that because

If you do not want to receive any future brochures or special will influence both the destination offers from Shearings Holidays please tick here and the type of accommodation you choose. Carol “If you’re flying and are worried about struggling with Allenby-Carr from Travel Counsellors advises being bags at the airport, most UK airports now offer a Fast Holidays are operated by Shearings Holidays Ltd and are subject to availability, amendment charges and terms and conditions of Shearings Holidays Trading Charter. 2.5% handling fee om quoting NRL022 careful about when you travel, too.

“For example, if Track service for a small cost where you will be met on applies to credit card transactions. Prices are per person, per stay based on two people sharing a standard room. Insurance is not included. Additional supplements may apply. All you want to go to a Mediterranean country and you arrival at the airport, escorted to the check-in desk and quoting NRL022 prices are valid on new bookings only made between 24/05/2010 – 30/06/2010 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Details are correct at time of going to press. Prices don’t like it too hot, then don’t go in July and August,” through the queuing process and security.” will be confirmed at the time of booking. Shearings Holidays reserve the right fast-tracked to withdraw any ent offers and prices at any time and without prior notice. she states All airlines also offer airport assistance, like use of a wheelchair or help boarding the aircraft, and if you “And if you want a bit of peace and quiet on your dislike crowded places you could check in at the holiday, don’t choose a hotel that’s geared up for executive lounge where for a small fee you can relax families. Fortunately, there are plenty of adult-only with refreshments in a quieter area before boarding properties now on offer throughout the world.” your plane.

Selecting exactly the right destination and Age UK, formerly Age Concern, which runs its own comprehensive holiday service in the UK and Europe

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Send your completed form back to: Retired and Living in… Competition, Marketing Department, Shearings Holidays, Miry Lane, Wigan, WN3 4AG

Eastbourne & Sussex Coast

offers plenty of useful advice about early planning to make the most from your break, especially if it’s abroad.

• Check if there are cultural, language or local laws about alcohol or drugs and keep the local dress code in mind.

• The cost of living may be higher in some places than the UK so allow for this, especially if you’re self-catering.

• If the holiday involves a different type of activity, prepare ahead. For example, for a sporting

holiday you may need to build up your physical fitness.

• Decide whether you want to arrange it all yourself or use a travel agent. An independent holiday may be time-consuming to arrange but it may provide exactly what you want.

• One helpful way to find holiday information

51 Edit - Howden Court 1/19/12 11:12 AM Page 1 about accessible accommodation and other tourism services for older people and those with disabilities is to contact Tourism For All,

a national registered charity. Go to www. tourismforall.org.uk write to: Tourism For All (UK) ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Holiday Care, c/o Vitalise, Shap Road1Industrial - Howden Court 1/19/12 11:12 AM Page Estate, Kendal, Cumbria LA9 6NZ or tel 0845 124 9971.

any vaccinations you need in good time before you go.

A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) means you’ll be able to receive necessary healthcare during a visit to a European Economic Area country or Switzerland.

And these are individual so you and your partner – or all members of a travelling group – need one each. Get application forms from main post offices, apply online at www.ehic.org.uk or call 0845 606 2030.

Leave travel, destination and contact details with someone at home, and ensure you’ve got enough money for your trip. If you have a mobile phone, check with your network provider that it’s enabled for international roaming. Check that your handset will work in the country you’re travelling to, and look at the costs to use it abroad for phone and text messages.

Make sure your home is safe and secure by cancelling any milk or newspaper deliveries, that your building and contents’ insurance are up to date and that valuable items like computers and TVs are out of sight.

Ask a neighbour to collect your mail, mow your lawn, open and close your curtains and switch lights on and off. If the latter isn’t possible, invest in time switches BOOK A on your lights. to TORQUAY Lock and secure your windows, doors and garden sheds; don’t leave spare keys near the house. Check that the house is free of hazards and blockages in case of bad weather – and have a great holiday!

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1/19/12

11:12 AM

Page 1

• To find out about the political stability, health

risks etc of a particular country (although not for visa-related inquiries), try the Foreign and

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE Commonwealth Office’s travel advice helpline tel 0845 850 2829 orADVERTISEMENT go to www.fco.gov.uk FEATURE

Hello my name’s • Whichever organisation you book your holiday

Peter and I’d like

with, ensure they’re members of ABTA The Travel

to know yours.

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Travel Operators (AITO).

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01803 294844 - it’s free and you’ll get a better idea of what we t andcan treat greet andyou. treatthe Passport Agency tel 0300 222 0000 or offer Contact guestsour in ago more personal way. number, butpage!” abut name! inwww.ips.gov.uk a more personal way.

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Doguests to it now, yes NOW, beforeNot youaturn over the Are off youbecause put off because not heard us?need No need e you put you’ve you’ve not heard of us?ofNo to to PETER FANNON worry: we’ve been providing coach holidays for many years and If mobility problems prevent you from actually getting y: we’ve been providing coach holidays for many years and have a very loyal customer base.

Many of our guests return to travel agent, incidentally, there are some – like a very loyal customer base. Many of our guests return timetime timeWe again. have who enjoy 17 weeks a year Travel Counsellors – one whocouple come to your home. time and again. haveWe one couple who enjoy 17 weeks a year with us! us! If you’ve got a medical condition and need medication, Not convinced? Well just give us a call and ask for a brochure on ot convinced?

Well just give usout ayou’ll call and ask for aidea brochure on it’s worth this at least weeks before 01803 294844sorting - it’s free and get a six better of what you we 03 294844 it’s free and you’ll get a better idea of what we cango. offer you.GP may also have advice on managing your Your offer you.

Do it now, yes NOW, before you turn theforget page!” condition while you’re away, andover don’t to have

o it now, yes NOW, before you turn over the page!” www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

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Dubrovnik

Timeless

Beauty

Sitting proudly on the calm blue waters of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is one of the world’s most magnificent fortified cities. Today a UNESCO world heritage site and Croatia’s most upmarket destination, it was once the capital of the wealthy seafaring Republic of Ragusa (1358-1808). During its Golden Age in the 16th century, it had one of the largest merchant naval fleets in the world.

Dubrovnik is clearly special. Lord Byron was not overstating the matter when he proclaimed Dubrovnik ‘the pearl of the Adriatic’.

Magnificent curtains of walls surround marble streets and baroque buildings that exude a pearly light in the Adriatic sun.

The main pedestrian thoroughfare, Placa, is a melange of cafés and shops with outstanding monuments at either end. Churches, monasteries and museums ornamented with finely carved stone recall an eventful history and a vibrant artistic tradition.

As the sun rises over the terracotta roofs the square awakens to the sound of barrow loads of fruit and vegetables bouncing over the stone cobbles. The ‘green market‘, as the locals call it, offers freshly picked produce as well as jars of homemade jams, pickles and spices. However, Dubrovnik shows her true magnificent colours during the winter months as well as the city looks wonderful “out of season.” True beauty is ageless and timeless.

Beyond the city is a heavenly landscape of beaches, wooded peninsulas and a sea strewn with lush islands.

Rector’s Palace: Right off Luza Square is the Rector’s Palace. It was the seat of the Ragusan government, where the Rector lived and worked. After Napoleon’s army dissolved the Dubrovnik Republic the Rector’s position was reduced. The original palace was modelled after the Roman imperial palace, with some influences from Venetian palaces. In 1435 there was a gunpowder explosion that demolished the structure. It was rebuilt in a late-gothic style. There was another explosion in 1463, and a an earthquake in 1667 that severally damaged the city. What you see now is the final redo that took place at the end

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of the 17 century. The central portico features beautiful archways and a second story mezzanine.

Pile Gate: This is the north gate into the city. It features a stone bridge with two gothic arches. If you exit towards the outside you can get to Tower Loverjenac. On entering, the outer draw bridge is met by an internal bridge that leads into the city. Some great shots are to be had with your camera from Pile Gate.

War Photo Limited: Dubrovnik’s sturdy fortifications have been put to the test several times during the centuries, most recently during the bloody break-up of Yugoslavia. This modern gallery is dedicated to stunning photojournalism from war zones around the world, and attempts to offer unbiased reporting with a human element.

Antuninska 6. www.warphotoltd.com. Daily 9am-9pm (Jun-Sep); Tue-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 10am-2pm (May and Oct); closed (NovApr). Entry is 30Kn. Dubrovnik Cable Car: The best views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding area are seen from the top of the Srd Hill where the Dubrovnik Cable Car was built back in 1969 and boasts the most beautiful panoramic view. On a clear day, you can see up to 60 km (37 miles)!

For this reason the neighbouring Fort Imperial was strategically built on this privileged spot way back in the early 19th century. http://dubrovnikcablecar.com.

The Dubrovnik Summer Festival (www.dubrovnik-festival.hr) runs from mid-Jul to mid-Aug, staging concerts, theatre and opera at various open-air venues in the old town. Pat line-ups have included the Warsaw Symphony Orchestra, Mexican tenor Ramon Vargas, and Australian-born British classical guitarist John Williams.

Nearby places worth visiting include the Renaissance gardens of Trsteno arboretum, the vineyards of Peljeac peninsular, the seaside resort of Cavtat, the tiny car-free Elafiti islands , the

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island of Mljet (one-third of which is a national park), and neighbouring Montenegro.

serves the Old Town. On buses you pay a separate fee of 10 Kn to the driver for luggage, so keep some change handy.

EATING/DRINKING There is a wide range of restaurants in the Old Town, mostly offering a very similar menu of local seafood and some meat dishes. The cuisine may not be very imaginative, but it is usually of good quality and very fresh.

Taxis in Dubrovnik are available around the clock and you can easily pick one up at one of the many taxi stops. The good news is that a taxi service will never cost you more than 100 Kn (approx. £11) in any direction within Dubrovnik city limits!

Restaurants can be crudely separated into (slightly) cheaper tourist-trap haunts, and more expensive but first class gastronomic restaurants. There are a few pizzerias, mostly wood-fired and acceptable. The Kraš chocolate sold at stores is delicious too!

Note that in the off peak season of November to March nearly all the top-end restaurants close, leaving only a handful of desperate tourist trap enterprises operating and still charging high prices. You can however still eat well and best of all, discounts can be negotiated.

Dubrovnik cuisine is characteristically not very spicy and is famous for traditionalism. Many popular meals are characteristic of Dubrovnik such as zelena menestra (it is the name for many sorts of cabbages and other vegetables with meat), pasticada and the famous delicacy dubrovacka rozata.

The most popular alcohol in Croatia is homemade rakija. This is a very strong distilled tipple made from a variety of fruits.

Examples include sljivovica, made from plums, loza, made from grapes, and orahovica, made with walnuts. There are many excellent local wines from both the Peljesac Peninsula and Konavle and it is often less expensive than soft drinks.

However, be careful when purchasing wine from unlicensed dealers as it can sometimes be of low quality!

SLEEPING Hotels in Dubrovnik include two, three, four and five-star hotels.

Private rooms are a good option for those on a budget; the downside is that they may be far from the Old Town, so make sure to check the location. Owners letting out these rooms accost buses at the bus station, so you can ask around and even bargain a little.

DON’T LEAVE WITHOUT VISITING… Cafe Buza: This place is little known but definitely the find in Dubrovnik.

Indeed, you will have to wander down an alleyway along the main western wall where you’ll find a nondescript door. Enter it to find the most amazing bar you might ever enjoy a beer in.

The cafe is built on the side of the rocky cliffs, hiding inside the Dubrovnik wall. Relax and enjoy the view as the dramatic wall rises above your head; or, as you are so near the small beach why not dip your toes in the water!

Fact file: Dubrovnik has an international airport, located approximately 20 km (12 miles) from Dubrovnik city centre.

There is no train to Dubrovnik. A narrow gauge line used to link Dubrovnik to Sarajevo but was closed in 1976; however, buses connect the airport with the Dubrovnik old main bus station in Gruž and Croatia Airlines even operates buses between the airport and the main bus station in Kantafig (takes approx. 45 minutes), which is 2.5 km northwest of the Old Town. Taxis from the airport to the centre will cost 220 kn. The bus passes close to the Old Town en-route to the airport; you can board the bus at the stop on Petra Kresimira 4 just above the Old Town, by the lower cable car station. Make sure you wave furiously otherwise the driver may not stop!

The main bus station is in Kantafig, near Port Gruz and the Tudjman Bridge, 2.5 km northwest of the Old Town. Local bus 7 operates between this station and Babin kuk, and bus 1

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If you are planning to drive a car in Dubrovnik, be aware that lots of streets are one way. If in doubt, passersby will gladly direct you.

Dubrovnik is easy to cover on foot; in fact it will take the averagely fit person less than 1.5 hours to walk from the historical centre to the very end of Lapad peninsula.

Climate: The climate along the Dubrovnik Region is a typical Mediterranean one, with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. However, it is perhaps distinct from other Mediterranean climates because of the unusual winds and frequency of thunderstorms. The Bura wind blows cold gusts down the Adriatic coast between October and April. The air temperatures can slightly vary, depending on the area or region.

Typically, in July and August daytime maximum temperatures reach 29°C (84°F), and at night drop to around 21°C (70°F). More comfortable perhaps, is the climate in Spring and Autumn when maximum temperatures are typically between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82°F).

Language: Croatian is the official language spoken in Dubrovnik.

English is taught as a second language in schools however, and other international languages are also fluently spoken.

Currency: Kuna (Kn.) £1 British pound is worth approx. 8 Kuna.

The word “Kuna” means “marten” in Croatian since it is based on the use of marten pelts as units of value in medieval trading.

Tailor-made for the over 50s

• Home Insurance • Gas and Electricity • Car Insurance • Personal Alarms • Travel Insurance • Funeral Plans For a no-obligation quote, visit: Age UK Gloucestershire, Bleak House 26 Station Road, Gloucester GL1 1EW Tel: 01452 422660 (open 9am–3pm Mon–Fri) or call 08000 853 741 or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/buy

Home, car and travel insurance are provided by Ageas Insurance Limited.

Gas and Electricity is provided by E.ON Energy Solutions Limited.

Age UK is a registered trademark of Age UK (Charity number 1128267). The use of the name and logo Age UK is done so under a licence agreement between Age UK and Age UK Enterprises Limited, its commercial services arm. Net profits are donated to Age UK. Age UK Enterprises Limited, Linhay House, Ashburton, Devon TQ13 7UP. ID9975 11/10 MP2212V2APR11_ CS037277_11

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Graham Smith has a Tweet But what is he twittering about?

There was the Swansea lady who decked out her living room ceiling with 1,700 Christmas baubles. She starts decorating at the end of September and doesn’t usually finish until Christmas Day! You couldn’t make it up could you?

Our beleaguered country can always throw up a laugh. Did you see the one about the internet dating sight which was auctioning a date with a busty Virgin Mary or a hunky Joseph!

Dogs are always good for a laugh too. A Chinese man, whose name I cannot possibly spell and you couldn’t say it if I did, has a four-year-old Pekingese dog which walks backwards on its hind legs for two kilometres a day. What is the point of that I ask and what does it do when it wants to spend a penny? The mind boggles.

When is it Christmas?

If it’s June when you read this don’t worry Christmas isn’t coming any time soon.

Astronomers have calculated that Christmas should be in June by charting the “Christmas Star” which the Bible says led the Three Wise Men to Jesus.

The have decided that the bright star pinpoints Jesus’ birthday as June 17th rather than December 25th.

Well that’s just going to upset a few turkey farmers and artificial snow manufacturers isn’t it?

Lost pussy causes a headache!

Those of us of a certain age will remember Mrs Slocombe of the BBC sitcom “Are You Being Served” having various problems with her pussy.

They were nothing compared to those of a small village where residents spent the best part of three days digging to rescue a cat whose meowing could be heard clearly. Everyone turned out to help and eventually the animal was found. A large orange plastic moggy with a tape recorded cry which was permanently switched on!

Stories like this warm my heart in troubled times. Half the population can’t afford a can of cat food but they will dig for three days to rescue what they thought was a genuine animal in distress.

He should have ducked!

An American duck hunter had to be taken to hospital after being shot in the buttocks by his dog!

And what a mess they’ve made of the carol service.

How can “snow lay round about, deep and crisp and even”, and what about the poor old beggar bringing in his winter fuel? There’s no holly and ivy, the shepherds can’t be watching their flocks because it’s still day light and I just cannot listen to Bing Crosby in June!

Which silly old goat with a white beard and a red suit is going to traipse reindeer and a sleigh about in 20 degrees of heat? I don’t eat sprouts in December so I’m surely not about to in June. “All is calm, all is bright”, well it will be in June, new legislation could mean it’s daylight until four in the morning so the poor little beggar will be throwing his swaddling clothes off and tipping the sheepdog out of the manger.

Why can’t they leave things as they are?

I’m dreaming of a White Easter.

10

The hunter was climbing out of his boat to place decoys in nearby marsh when his “excited” dog trod on a shotgun firing 27 pellets into his backside from ten feet.

The man managed to walk to a nearby road and call an ambulance and was not seriously injured.

He should have ducked. www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Keep active – keep healthy!

As we get older and certainly when we retire, some of us will lead a more sedentary lifestyle than we have done up until now. For a start, if you do not take up another full-time job in retirement, you will not have to get out of bed in the morning and rush around getting ready for work and then travelling.

If you have little to do, many of us eat and drink out of boredom, so there is a danger that we shall eat and drink more than we should, especially if it is combined with a more sedentary life. You might have a drink at lunchtime as you do, perhaps, on holiday.

So it is worth keeping an eye on our exercise levels and our diet. Putting on extra weight as we get older can be harmful because we naturally get less supple anyway, so if we can take a bit of care it will do us good and help us to maintain an active lifestyle.

minutes of more vigorous intensity activity spread across the week or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity.

It is also advised that older adults undertake physical activity to improve muscle strength on at least two days a week and that those older adults at risk of falls should incorporate physical activity to improve balance and co‑ordination on at least two days a week, every week.

Nobody is too old to benefit from physical activity.

The range of classes and activity sessions at leisure at @ cheltenham are numerous. Instructors are fully qualified and have experience of working with older adults to ensure maximum benefits for health and well being.

Recent guidance from the Chief Medical Officer confirms that older adults who participate in any amount of physical activity gain some health benefits, including the maintenance of good physical and mental health. Some physical activity is better than none and more physical activity provides greater health benefits.

The benefits of being active include: helping to maintain an active and alert mind l reducing the risk of heart disease l helping to maintain the ability to carry out daily living activities l improving mood and self‑confidence l reducing the risk of falls l increasing sociability when undertaken with other people l

Older adults should aim to be active every day, adding up to at least 150 minutes (2½ hours) a week of moderate intensity activity. A good way to approach this is to do thirty minutes activity on at least five days a week. For those who are already regularly physically active at moderate intensity, similar benefits can be achieved through 75 additional

11

Active Life Programme for the over 50’s Come and enjoy the full range of 50+ activities which we have here at leisure@cheltenham.

Activities include: Free health walks Exercise to music classes Drop-in Badminton 50+ lane swimming

Health Walks:

Re-Active

Free, led health walks every week from the centre taking in Pittville Park and the surrounding areas. Monday at 2pm. 20-40 minutes - All welcome particularly new / inexperienced walkers. Coffee and a natter afterwards.

Re-Active is Cheltenham Borough Council and NHS Gloucestershire’s physical activity referral scheme.

Exercise to Music classes We have a range of classes here tailored for the over 50’s. These include Active Bodies, Sit Fit, Pilates, Active Balance and Gentle Aerobics. All classes are charged at a discounted price.

50+ Badminton We have 50+ drop in badminton sessions on a Monday & Wednesday afternoon between 2-4pm. Cost is £2.20 per session.

Whether used alone or alongside medication, physical activity has been shown to significantly reduce the effects of many medical conditions. Re-Active has been developed in order to help encourage those who would benefit from a programme of activity, providing the opportunity to do this in a supportive, empowering and effective environment.

The 12 week programme of physical activity is available by referral by a health professional, such as a GP or practice nurse, after consultation with a patient who meets with the programme’s criteria. If you would like more information on Re-Active please contact your GP.

50+ Swimming

Active Life in the Community

Activity

Anytime Price

Off Peak Price

Peak Price

Racquets (per court)

£4.75

n/a

n/a

Squash (45 minutes)

£3.25

n/a

n/a

n/a

£4.20

£5.15

Concession Cards

Health Suite

As part of the work that we do in partnership with the NHS locally, we provide a programme of community-based classes. These take place around Cheltenham in local community centres.

• Active Bodies at Leckhampton Village Hall - Mondays 12 noon, £2.50

Standard ETM Class

• Active Bodies at Springbank Resource Centre - Wednesdays 10.45am, £3.00

This programme also includes 2 classes per week at the leisure centre for those who are 50+ • 50+ Aqua Aerobics - Monday 8.45am • A chair-based Osteoporosis class - Tuesdays 2.00 - 2.45 and Thursdays 12.00 - 12.45 • Classes are £2.10 each.

Concession Card Activities Individuals over 60 years qualify for a leisure@concession. There is a £6.00 annual fee for the concession card which gives the holder discounts on certain activities.

£4.20

n/a

n/a

Swim

n/a

£1.10

£2.20

Fitness Suite

n/a

£2.10

£5.15

Reactive (GP Referral) – 12 week programme Price per activity

£2.10

n/a

n/a

Sign Up Charge

£7.80

n/a

n/a

Respiratory Class

£2.10

n/a

n/a

Monday a.m Aqua

£2.10

n/a

n/a

50 Plus Swim

£1.10

n/a

n/a

Other

GET 1 FREE Exercise Class of your choice.

#

We have designated 50+ lane swimming sessions held Monday - Friday 3.00 - 3.45pm each day. Cost is £1.10 per swim.

Bring this voucher to Leisure@cheltenham and get your FREE exercise class on us.

I’m fit for life with...

T: 01242 528764 Tommy Taylors Lane, Cheltenham, Glos, GL50 4RN

www.leisureatcheltenham.com

Calendar Girl RUTH Madoc had just been having lunch with her five year-old grand-daughter in St Albans when she broke off from encouraging her to eat pizza for a chat with Angela Kelly about the theatre and life after Gladys Pugh.

“I’m in the South for two weeks with ‘Calendar Girls’,” she explains in those familiar warm, now-muted Welsh tones.

“So I’m staying with the family here and love being out for lunch with Seren (Welsh for “star”) because this little girl and I have a real connection.”

After she graduated, Ruth – a talented singer and performer as well as an actress – spent three years with the “Black and White Minstrel Show” and various summer seasons with Lesley Crowther, Max Wall and Bruch Forsyth in the final days of provincial variety.

Ruth, now 68, has five grandchildren under the age of five (“hard work sometimes, although lovely”). Three of them live in Gibraltar and it’s plain that Ruth thoroughly enjoys being a grandma.

She became a theatrical favourite appearing in leading roles in musicals like “West Side Story and “Man of La Mancha” and appeared in both the stage and screen versions of “Under Milk Wood.”

It may be hard to see her in this role as, for many TV viewers, she remains fondly in the memory as the man-hungry Maplins’ Yellowcoat and the mere mention of her name has usually restrained people shouting out “Hi-De-Hi!”.

After her high-profile success in “Hi-DeHi!”, Ruth was in the stage version of the show which enjoyed huge success in

This wonderful portrayal in the enduringly popular BBC 1 comedy series revealed her comic talents to thousands at home. But her career, even by then, had already covered a startling variety of theatre.

Although Ruth is well known for her Welsh roots she was, in fact, born in Norwich because her parents consistently travelled around Britain. However, she spent much of her childhood with her maternal grandmother in Llansamlet in Swansea.

From the little mining village she made the unlikely but determined leap to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, guided in this by the man who became an early mentor, Sir Harry Secombe. “I was in East Yorkshire with my parents and the head of drama at school sent a tape of me to Harry Secombe’s agent with the intention of interesting Huw Weldon who used to have a BBC children’s talent programme called ‘All Your Own,’ she states.

Instead, the agent showed it to the famous singer and comedian, and he began helping the young Ruth, offering practical advice on her career.

14

I N T E RV I E W Bournemouth, Blackpool and at the Victoria Palace in London.

career on programmes like “Some of these Days,” “Woman’s Hour” and “This Family Business.”

“I never felt, though, that I was going to be typecast

by Gladys,” she says. “I’d already done so much in the theatre I knew that I would go on to do many other, different roles.”

Other TV roles over the years have included guest appearances with Morecambe and Wise, Bob Monkhouse and Les Dawson. And, more recently, she was the mother of the infamous Daffyd (the only gay in the village) in the Bafta award-winning comedy series “Little Britain.”.

And indeed she did. She has been in a large number of stage productions including “A Taste of Honey” and “A Murder is Announced”, and in West End musicals like “Niteclub Confidential” and “Bless the Bride.”

Ruth had great personal success with her portrayal of the indomitable Mama Rose in the musical “Gypsy”, toured Japan and the Far East as Madame Giry in “Phantom of the Opera” and was a wonderful Mrs Bardell to Harry Secombe’s “Pickwick” at the Chichester Festival Theatre, Sadlers Wells Theatre and on an extended national tour.

She was also Dorothy Brock in the hit musical “42nd Street”, Miss Hannigan in “Annie”, and Maria in “Twelfth Night” at Regent’s Park Theatre in London.

Her film appearances vary from “Fiddler on the Roof” to “The Prince and the Pauper” and “Very Annie Mary”, and she has also enjoyed an extensive radio

Ruth has appeared in more than 30 pantomimes in every major city in the UK – as everything from principal boy in “Robin Hood” and “Dick Whittington” to Cinderella’s fairy godmother and the Wicked Queen in “Snow White.”

For the past 18 months, she has been touring in “Calendar Girls” as Marie – the WI protagonist who tries to stop the nude calendar – “and I love it!” she declares with a throaty laugh.

“I think I enjoy playing not so nice people because it’s more interesting. But I really love this play and Tim Firth (the writer) is so clever. While the humour is Northern it works on so many levels and is a great piece of writing.”

Ruth will remain in the production until May, 2012, when, she says, she and her manager husband John will go to Spain to visit their grandchildren.

She states that she “won’t do theatre after I’m 75” because she doesn’t want to spend time learning lines.

“I think when you get older there is a great pressure in learning lines. I’ve seen this happen to many other people, and I don’t want that,” she insists.

“I keep my mind sharp now by doing crosswords each day and, although I’ve got lines in ‘Calendar Girls’, I still learn pieces of poetry.”

Her only career regret is that she didn’t take the “Under Milk Wood” role she was offered at the National Theatre “because I was with Harry in ‘Pickwick’ and didn’t want to let him down.”

Ruth would, though, still love to play the part of Madam Horrible in the hit musical “Wicked!” which re-imagines the Land of Oz. And that inquiring, lively mind, she suspects, will continue until her deathbed. “I think my final words will probably be ‘Eureka!,” she laughs again.

Then it’s back to life as grandma, and that perennial dilemma of how to get small children to eat their lunch.

15

HOW ASSISTED LIVING REALLY WORKS AT RICHMOND PAINSWICK RETIREMENT VILLAGE Although it’s always a very emotional decision to sell the family home and downsize, chosen carefully, this next step can be a hugely positive experience, providing freedom from responsibilities and a great new lifestyle, as so often seen at Richmond Villages.

Although only a resident at Richmond Painswick retirement village in Gloucestershire for a matter of months, Joyce Ryan (79) is transformed and feels happy and content.

Following a night time break-in at her old family home near Stroud she had became rather low.

Joyce chose the Assisted Living package at Richmond Painswick as she has an eye condition which deteriorated her sight quickly.

Says Mrs Ryan: “Not having to do housework any longer is the best bit, and there are always people popping in to see me.”

Utilities (heating, energy, water) are included, as is all food and soft beverages. Lunch and evening meals are prepared and can be served in residents’ homes, or the restaurant.

Mrs Ryan, who lost her husband, Derek, 28 years ago says: “I hadn’t realised how isolated I’d become. Now you can choose when you want to be private, but when you feel like company there’s always someone to talk to and there are lots of activities and events. I go to three exercise classes a week, including Tai Chi.”

She says: “It was such a shock for that to happen in your home of 38 years. I had some flashbacks afterwards and my house was really quite isolated during those weeks of awful snow, and then I had a family bereavement. My family noticed I wasn’t myself. I’d become withdrawn and didn’t talk much any more, which wasn’t like me! I decided to look at various places I could move to and as soon as I saw Richmond Painswick it felt right, and it has been right at every stage since.”

Situated on the southern slopes of Painswick in the beautiful Cotswolds, Richmond Painswick is surrounded by stunning scenery but within easy reach of Cheltenham, Stroud and Cirencester. Accommodation available to purchase includes Assisted Living apartments which are designed for those who still want their own front door but who require some help with daily living, and includes a spacious living room, kitchenette and one or two bedrooms with en suite showerroom. One bedroom properties are available from £249,950.

Richmond’s own domiciliary care team are on site 24 hours a day to provide bespoke care packages to residents, while a care home at the heart of the village also offers 24-hour nursing care as required.

First class facilities at the purpose-built Painswick retirement village also include a wellness spa with three treatment rooms, a large swimming pool, sauna, steam room, a fullyequipped gymnasium and fitness studio, a café, shop and hairdressing salon. The restaurant serves delicious meals and residents can use the auditorium, library/IT room and rooftop garden to sit and read in the sunshine or relax and enjoy the surrounding views.

Mrs Ryan’s large family of three children, eleven grandchildren and two great grand-children certainly enjoy their visits. She adds: “My grandchildren swim in the pool and play outside. And they told me I look ten years younger now than I did. I would advise people to make the move sooner rather than later to make the most of it, and to make lots of new friends. But we also have some very lively 90 years olds here I can tell you!”

For more information, please call 01452 813902 or visit www.richmond-villages.com/painswick 16

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Richmond Painswick Award-winning retirement village

Richmond Painswick is an award-winning Retirement Village situated in a stunning setting in the heart of the Cotswolds – and has the kind of luxury facilities most people dream of.

Why not come along and see all that we have to offer…

Plus breathtaking facilities and a wealth of activities…

• One- and two-bedroom apartments • Wellness Spa with Pool & Gym

• • • •

Restaurant & Bar Hair & Beauty Salon Library I.T. and Craft Room

• • • •

Landscaped Gardens Village Shop and Café Full social programme Staff on site 24 hrs a day

• Registered Care Home at the heart of the Village • Respite and convalescent care available

For more information, call 01452 810203 or go to www.richmond-villages.com

EVERYONE DESERVES A BREAK… We all need a change of scene sometimes, where we can enjoy a little rest and relaxation.

A holiday usually does the trick, but what if you need the sort of environment and access to care and support services that traditional high-end hotels just can’t provide?

To meet this requirement award-winning retirement village operators, Richmond Villages, has created Richmond Retreats, where holidays with care are the focus.

Holidays with care at beautiful locations

The Cotswolds, Oxfordshire and Northamptonshire

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk CALL: 01452 810203 | WWW.RICHMONDRETREATS.CO.UK

17

FO O D

&

DRI NK

Rick Stein's Recipes from around the World Rick Stein’s passion for fresh well-sourced food has taken him from continent to continent, across magnificent shorelines and to the very best produce the coast has to offer. Rick remarks “My greatest enthusiasm in life has been finding dishes that change my perception of cooking, that reveal a whole new vista of flavour combination. I think we all enjoy that.

I’m just someone with an enthusiasm for food and a curiosity that’s sent me sniffing around all over the place looking for lovely dishes in all corners of the globe” Taken from his books here are some of Rick's favourite recipes.

SERVES 8-10 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for serving 1 large onion, chopped 5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1 large leek, cleaned and cut into similar-sized pieces 250g dried borlotti beans, soaked overnight 450g waxy potatoes, such as Charlotte, peeled and cut into 1- cm dice 250g peeled carrots, cut into 1-cm dice 2 celery sticks, cut into 1- cm dice 1 ripe beef tomato, skinned and chopped Leaves from 1 small rosemary sprig, finely chopped 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1.2kg smoked ham hock 250g green beans, trimmed and cut into 1- cm pieces 2 medium-sized courgettes, topped and tailed and cut into 1- cm dice 1/2 small cabbage (about 500g), core removed, thinly sliced 75g dried tagliatelle, broken into 5-cm pieces 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano A small handful of flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped Salt and freshly ground black pepper 18

Minestra: Corsican Vegetable Soup with Smoked Ham, Cabbage and Borlotti Beans Heat the oil in a really large pan, add the onion, garlic and leek, and cook gently for 3-4 minutes. Drain the soaked beans and add to the pan with the potatoes, carrots, celery, tomato, rosemary, dried oregano and 2 litres of water. Cut the ham hock in half lengthways to one side of the bone, add to the pan and press the pieces down well into the soup so they are totally submerged. Bring everything to a simmer and leave to cook, uncovered, for 1 hour.

Then add the green beans, courgettes, cabbage, tagliatelle pieces and fresh oregano and simmer for a further 15-20 minutes until the soup is thick. Remove the pieces of ham hock, pull the meat off the bone, and pull it into small chunks.

Discard the skin and bone. Stir the ham back into the soup with the parsley and approximately 500 ml more hot water to loosen it slightly and season with salt and pepper. Service in large warmed soup bowls, drizzled with a little more olive oil.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

SERVES 4 400g dried spaghetti 175-g piece smoked pancetta, rind removed 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped A handful of flat-leaf parsley leaves, finely chopped 3 large eggs, beaten 50g finely grated pecorino sardo maturo Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Spaghetti Alla Carbonara: Pasta with Pecorino Sardo, Pancetta, Parsley and Eggs Bring 4.5 litres water to the boil in a large saucepan with 8 teaspoons salt. Add the spaghetti and cook for 9 minutes or until al dente.

Meanwhile, cut the pancetta into lardons (short little strips), about 6mm wide. Heat a large, deep frying pan over a mediumhigh heat, add the oil and the pancetta and allow it to fry until lightly golden. Add the garlic and parsley and cook for a few seconds, then remove from the heat and set to one side.

Drain the spaghetti well, tip into the frying pan with the pancetta, garlic and parsley, add the beaten eggs and half the grated pecorino cheese and toss together well. Season to taste with a little salt and black pepper. The heat from the spaghetti will be sufficient to partly cook the egg but still leave it moist and creamy. Take to the table and serve in warmed pasta bowls, sprinkled with the rest of the cheese.

SERVES 6-8 2 x 1-kg shoulders of lamb, each one cut into 3 large chunks through the bone (get your butcher to do this) 2kg waxy maincrop potatoes, such as Desiree, peeled and cut into 5-6cm chunks 1 head of garlic, outside papery skins removed, cut in half through the middle 1 tablespoon dried oregano, Greek if possible 3-6 fresh bay leaves 2 tablespoons fresh oregano or marjoram leaves 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling Juice of 2 large lemons Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Kleftiko: Slow-cooked Lamb with Garlic, Oregano, Lemon and Potatoes Preheat the oven to 1900C/Gas Mark 5. Combine the meat, potatoes and garlic in a large ovenproof casserole dish. Sprinkle with the dried and fresh herbs, olive oil, lemon juice, 100ml water, 2 teaspoons of salt and plenty of black pepper and mix together well, then nestle the pieces of meat down in among the potatoes. Drizzle with a little more oil.

Cover the casserole tightly with foil and a well-fitting lid and bake for 3 hours until the meat is falling off the bone. However, check after a couple of hours to make sure it doesn’t need a little more water.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

19

SERVES 4 4 x 175-225-g pieces of thick, unskinned cod fillet 15g melted butter, for brushing Salt and freshly ground black pepper FOR THE POMMES SARLADAISE: 1kg floury potatoes such as King Edward’s or Maris Pipers 4 heaped tablespoons goose or duck fat 3 garlic cloves 25g flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped 1 teaspoon truffle oil FOR THE TOMATO AND CAPER SALAD: 6 medium-sized vine ripened tomatoes, thinly sliced 1 small red onion, halved and thinly sliced 2 teaspoons nonpareilles capers, drained and rinsed 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar Pinch caster sugar 4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley 20

Grilled cod on pommes sarladaise with truffle oil For the pommes sarladaise, peel and thickly slice the potatoes - about 5 mm thick. Heat 3 tablespoons of the goose or duck fat in a large, reliably non-stick frying pan. Add the potatoes and some seasoning and fry over a medium heat for about 5 minutes until the bottom layer of potatoes is golden. Then turn the potatoes over and leave until another bottom layer is golden. Some of the potatoes will remain unbrowned, and as they cook the slices start to break up a little, but don’t worry, this is how they should be. Repeat this for 15 minutes, making sure not to turn the potatoes before the bottom layer has browned. Then turn the heat down, cover and leave to cook very gently for another 10 minutes.

Chop the garlic and half the parsley leaves together to make a persillade.

Uncover the potatoes and mix in the persillade and the truffle oil. Cover and leave to cook for another 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with the tip of a sharp knife.

Meanwhile, brush the cod on both sides with the melted butter and season with some salt and pepper. Put skin-side up onto a baking tray and grill for 8-10 minutes until cooked through.

For the salad, arrange the sliced tomatoes over the base of a shallow serving dish and scatter over the sliced red onion and capers. Whisk together the red wine vinegar, sugar and a pinch of salt and pepper and then gradually whisk in the olive oil. Drizzle this over the salad, scatter over the parsley and set to one side.

Now uncover the pan of potatoes, turn up the heat and add the last tablespoon of duck fat. Fry for 2-3 minutes until the bottom layer is crisp and brown, then add the remaining chopped parsley and turn over briefly.

To serve, spoon the potatoes onto 4 warm plates and rest the cod on top.

Serve with the tomato and caper salad.

T R A D I T I O N A L C OT S W O L D P U B A N D R E S TA U R A N T

The Edgemoor Inn Fantastic views over the Painswick Valley & surrounding countryside The Edgemoor Inn is in the village of Edge, overlooking the beautiful, picturesque Painswick Valley.

The late 19th century Inn, constructed from Cotswold stone, has picture style windows and is well known for its pretty panoramic views. Our property boasts an extensive terraced patio overlooking Painswick & surrounding countryside.

Local Produce Edgemoor Inn sources as much fresh meat, fish & vegetables from local suppliers.

Home Cooked Meals & Real Ales An extensive range of home cooked meals and daily specials are served each day lunchtime and evening. Vegetarian menus are always available. We serve the finest selection of local real ales from Uley, Wickwar and Stroud.

The Edgemoor Inn offers the very best in traditional Cotswold pub and restaurant dining - a warm welcome in delightful surroundings with well-presented homecooked food. This is a combination that’s hard to beat.

• Fresh cooked food & local real ales served lunch & evening • Extensive patio area • Large dining room with a light and modern feel

Sample Menu Our menu uses the finest locally sourced ingredients. Here is a selection from the menu.

Mini fillet rossini (fillet steak, ciabatta & pate) - £6.50 Prawn & crayfish salad, marie rose sauce - £6.50 Seared breast of duck with oriental & peanut salad - £6.50

Appetisers

Main Meals

Marinated olives, feta cheese & dipping oil with warm ciabatta - £3.50 Mixed olives - £2.50 Garlic bread - £2.95 Garlic bread with cheese and bacon - £3.95

Starters Homemade soup of the day served with honey & seed bread roll - £4.95 Deep fried whitebait with cayenne pepper - £6.00 Cheese fondue with toasted ciabatta & crudites - £6.50

Grilled sea bass with herb crumb on a warm salad of roast red onion, cherry tomato, spinach & potatoes £12.50 Old spot beer battered haddock with chips, peas and homemade tartare sauce - £11.50 Gammon steak with pineapple salsa, salad & chips - £11.50 Slow roast blade of beef with horseradish & stilton crumb with roast potatoes & vegetables - £12.50 Fillet steak, served with onion rings, mushrooms, chips & peas - £22.00

Edge | Near Stroud | Gloucestershire GL6 6ND Tel: 01452 813576 email: info@edgemoor-inn.com Visit www.edgemoor-inn.com for full menu and more details

NEWS & EVENTS Cirencester Heritage in Light

11th and 12th May 2012 @ 8.30 - 11.00

September Snowstorms!

Normally, as the nights get longer and cooler, our thoughts turn back to heating our homes properly. Due to the fact Sunflow heaters are made in Germany, demand from Russia, Northern Scandinavia and Eastern Europe is driven by hard frosts and September snowfalls. Sounds cold and it is. Therefore, in order not to miss out on warm weather installation, the time to prepare is now.

Do you want to continue with oil, lpg, gas or night storage heaters? Or, do you want to consider a different type of heating, one with a massive pedigree in Europe and rapidly growing in popularity in Britain. Sunflow radiators are slim, economical and extremely efficient. A real alternative with no maintenance and a full twelve year guarantee.

Built to suit your home, they can form an impressive energy management system that individually controls the temperature and timing of every room. Sunflow offers expertise to combat cold exposed locations so your living areas will never be uncomfortable, even if temperatures drop significantly.

Our surveyors are located where you are and will give you all the advice you need to plan a warm and comfortable future.

Our secret is simple, we do the mathematical equations that guarantee the heat you require in living areas. By calling now, you have time to obtain a quotation and book a summer/ autumn installation.

For further details call Suzanne on 0800 158 8272.

To celebrate the remarkable transformation and repair of the magnificent Parish Church in Cirencester’s Marketplace, the heart of the idyllic Cotswold town of Cirencester will be displayed in a new light with the Cirencester: Heritage in Light show.

Cirencester: Heritage in Light features an outdoor, magiclantern style show. Images evoking the town’s heritage and specially created children’s artwork will be projected on to the church, accompanied by music. The event is free of charge and suitable for all.

Wychwood music festival 08 June 2012 - 10 June 2012 Cheltenham racecourse

Wychwood Music Festival features a diverse range of artists from all over the world.

This family-friendly three-day event will see the Racecourse hosting an eclectic range of live music performances, comedy, cinema and an array of workshops.

For more information visit SoGlos.com The online magazine for Gloucestershire. www.wychwoodfestival.com

Cheltenham science festival 12 June 2012 - 17 June 2012 Cheltenham town hall

Cost: Vary in price, and are available in advance by calling the Cheltenham Literature Festival box office on 01242 505 444.

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

A lifetime of heating, amazingly efficient, fully controllable, slim and attractive.

Heating is a major purchase in our life. Not just the cost of buying a system but the cost of the energy to run it and, just as importantly, the costs to maintain it.

Maintenance - get rid of the maintenance costs all together. A Sunflow guarantee of 12 years will do the trick - nobody inspecting every year - with heating that has a life expectancy of 40 to 50 years! A Sunflow heater is well made and hand finished in Germany. So if you add maintenance and depreciation prevalent in other systems this could easily be a 30% reduction in costs in the first 12 years. That’s just the start!

Over 200 beautiful colours On feet, castors or wall mounted

Energy Management - often called modular heating, Sunflow German built electric heaters allow total control of heating costs.

Every room can be time and temperature controlled, far more accurately than any form of wet system. We have a range of controls from simple manual thermostats and timers, to switching on your heat from remote locations. Ask for advice. Whatever controls you choose you will be able to decide where and when to use energy.

A ReAl AlteRnAtive 22

to

Efficiency - the reason a Sunflow heater is incredibly efficient is the naturally occurring refractory clay core. Called chamotte, we embed a pure tungsten element into the clay and this combination allows us to heat large surface areas with a comparatively low electrical input, thus making our heaters very economic to run.

It all sounds very scientific but to the sceptical we offer a simple demonstration. (See our brochure).

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

Questions?

Call Suzanne on 0800 158 8272

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The UK’s premiere science event. Explore ideas that make your world go round, debate, discuss, watch shows, talks, comedy, cabaret, workshops and visit the free hands-on Discover Zone exhibition.

Find out more on the Cheltenham Festivals website.

Cheltenham food and drink festival 15 June 2012 - 17 June 2012 Montpellier Gardens Cost: Various A taste of summer The Cheltenham Food and Drink Festival is a gastronomic delight. With over 150 exhibitors, the scope of local and regional products on show ensures there is something for everyone. You’ll find an astonishing variety of victuals from oatcakes to aphrodisiac quince; the widest range of baked goods, meats, fish, cheeses, jams, chutneys and much more on offer.

Join friends and family and raise a glass to summer while listening to music and watching the street theatre. This is the regional food event not to be missed.

the London Philharmonic Orchestra under conductor Basil Cameron, with the first notes sounded those of Beethoven’s Leonora Overture.

Music fans can expect the best in live performances, ranging from orchestral works and opera, to folk music, brass bands and even an accordian recital. Running hand-in-hand with the Music Festival is The Cheltenham Fringe Festival with assorted entertainment to suit all.

The Festival is a huge summer celebration of live classical music with events ranging from free family workshops and young artists’ projects, through to concerts from well-loved performers and the promotion of contemporary composers.

The festival features the finest musicians from across the world: orchestral, chamber, choral and solo performances as well as family events, films, talks, cabaret, exhibitions and outreach projects.

Queens Diamond Jubilee Holiday Picnic Party in the Park

05 June 2012 The Museum in the Park - Stratford Park Stroud GL5 4AF.

Opening times: Friday 12noon to 7pm Saturday 10am to 7pm Sunday 10am to 5pm Ticket box office: Cheltenham Town Hall 0844 576 2210

Bring a picnic and join the old fashioned fun and games outside the Museum. For princes, princesses and paupers of all ages.

Supported by The Friends of Stroud District (Cowle) Museum

Cheltenham music festival

Prices: FREE admission

04 July 2012 - 15 July 2012 Cheltenham town hall and other locations Cheltenham Music Festival dates back to 1945. The first concert, on 13 June - just 5 weeks or so after VE Day - featured

Times: 11am - 4pm ( in anytime)

Contact: Abigail Large Tel: 01453 763394 Email: museum@stroud.gov.uk Web: www.museuminthepark.org.uk

A fully-restored, historic Victorian theatre in the heart of the Cotswolds - for a full listing of events visit www.everymantheatre.org.uk

Booking now at www.everymantheatre.org.uk or call 01242 572573 For information on backstage tours call 01242 695574

The vivid blue of cornfl owers goes well with marigolds for a later summer display.

What will you grow this year?

The beginning of the gardener’s year is always a challenge. There are decisions to make. More vegetables or a new planting scheme?

Minimum maintenance or a whole new layout? And what about the lawn?

Vegetables Even the smallest plot can provide a plentiful supply of salads. A newcomer on the scene includes Suttons multigreen lettuce, which has a short crown and no wastage. Sow seeds little and often at fortnightly intervals from March to July, and you’re guaranteed a regular supply, and while you’re sowing your lettuce, find a space for a succession of plantings of radishes from March to September. Sew these in a cool position, and thin early.

Water well in dry weather.

The Lawn Nothing sets off a well tended garden as effectively as a lush green lawn, or detracts from the effect if it’s patchy and sparse.

Particularly at the start of the year, the lawn needs a lot of attention and unfortunately, it’s not always enough to mow regularly and feed correctly. Shaggy edges should be kept neatly clipped. Worn areas lightly forked over and re-seeded, then covered with a fine layer of compost. Creeping buttercup and field daisies may need the use of a selective weed killer. Moss is another problem, and generally means the drainage is poor. Raking out the moss by hand, or with an electric scarifyer sometimes helps, as does spiking and incorporating sand, but if the moss persists, then you may need to get more professional advice.

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For variety in your salads, a welcome addition is spinach. Sow from March to mid April, thin early, and use these baby leaves in your mix. Rocket is another easily grown plant, to add that wonderful peppery taste to a green leaf mixture, spring onions give salad rolls an extra zing, and chives are a must with scrambled eggs.

No salad is complete without the sharp refreshing taste of radishes

2011 was a bad year for tomatoes, so this year, take extra precautions by siting French marigolds in pots around them. Planting basil nearby also helps, as it’s natural repellent to flies.

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Soft Fruit in pots

Dahlias grow in almost any location, and on any soil, although, for best results, good drainage is essential. They can be obtained in almost any colour and any height, as singles, doubles, cactus or dwarf, and at the end of the year, the tubers can be lifted and stored for next year so they’re very economical to grow.

We all love soft fruit, and I’ve just discovered a new range which have a more upright habit, so gooseberries and blackcurrants can be potted up and sited on the patio. Try blackcurrant Noiroma, which is a very sweet, large fruited variety, and gooseberry Lady Sun, an almost thornless yellow variety, both available from Suttons Seeds.

The Flower Garden Dahlias are making a big comeback.

Grown as part of the general planting scheme, the canny gardener knows that when perennials such as delphiniums and lupins are past their best, dahlias will be coming into their own, continuing to flower at full pitch until the first frost. The tall varieties can provide dramatic accents of colour at the back of the flower beds, and the smaller varieties add interest throughout the garden, and provide plenty of cut flowers for the house. Taller dahlias need to be staked, so position these before planting the tubers, to avoid any accidental damage. I’ve found that although the large flowered pompom varieties look sensational, in a wet summer the flower heads retain too much rain and become too heavy for the stems, which bend under the weight. I generally go for the single flowering varieties, which also look more at home in a mixed herbaceous planting.

And finally, don’t forget the pleasure of growing flowers from seed. As soon as the soil has warmed up, rake over odd bare patches and scatter a mixture of marigolds and cornflowers. Surround the sown area with a drizzle of sand, to remind yourself of where they were planted, and be rewarded with a wonderful splash of colour later in the summer. This works in pots as well.

Love in the Mist seeds scattered amongst the geraniums, candytuft in troughs, and nasturtiums amongst the tomatoes.

All you need is a packet of seeds and a little imagination, and sometimes, the results are spectacular.

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

Happy gardening.

Care Fees Planning advice; when and where you need it from your local specialist Neil Gayler If you are contemplating placing a relative or friend in a care home (or organising their care in their own home), you are probably feeling emotionally drained right now. The process of finding a suitable care provider and sorting through the legislation, not to mention helping them to fundamentally change and come to terms with the major changes to their lifestyle, can be extremely difficult.

Add to this confusion, stress and guilt and it is not surprising that many people feel somewhat overwhelmed and worried at a time like this. There are many financial advisers in the country but only a handful in any one region with the specialist skills and knowledge to be able to guide you through the care fees planning maze SYMPONIA [Greek. adjective: compassion] Symponia has the answer — our adviser members are all suitably experienced and appropriately qualified.

We are therefore able to provide a unique concept within the field of care fees planning which, in turn, gives you and your family truly independent financial advice at a time when you most need it .

Neil Gayler is your local Symponia member for Gloucestershire. For a confidential initial consultation (without any cost or obligation to you), call him on 01242 538 383

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A Guide to Dentures ....

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

Natural teeth grow in proportion and in harmony with your facial features and your dentures should be made accordingly.

Your teeth, or your dentures, have many important functions: to support your facial muscles, to help formulate your speech, and most importantly to chew your food and start the digestive process.

It is very important to chew food properly, as poorly chewed food will take longer to digest, especially for the elderly who could risk problems in the digestive system.

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

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

At the same time we have to use our technical expertise in order to make the denture stable and functional.

Denture construction is more art than science.

Denture Teeth: 2-layer acrylic very basic and cheap, 3-layer acrylic re-enforced much harder, 4-layer composite extra hard and natural looking.

However, good materials on their own will not make good dentures. A skilful and experienced clinician and technician are required. The best results are achieved when the whole job is done by the same person.

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

The preparation is relatively simple as your natural teeth don’t need to be altered. The Valpast flexible partial denture is virtually invisible, no telltale metal clasps and the material itself blends with the tissue in your mouth so that the only thing that shows is your beautiful smile.

Cotswold Dental Laboratory Ltd is the first established Dental Technician in Gloucestershire offering Valpast Flexible Partials.

How Long Should Dentures Last?

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

Choice of Dentures

There are three main quality standards in denture materials:

Dentures Need Regular Servicing

Denture Base Acrylics: standard quality, high impact much stronger non brittle and the latest thermoplastic.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Quality of dentures.

Age of Patient.

General health of patient.

Any drastic change in weight.

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

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

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

Have your dentures inspected by a dentist or denturist at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.

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Your Dentures need Attention 1. When they become loose.

2. When teeth or denture base discolours.

3. When tooth surfaces become flat.

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

5. When you develop deep lines around your mouth.

6. When your chin sticks out, and the corners of your lips are constantly wet, developing sores.

7. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.

Cotswold Dental Laborator y Ltd Martyn Young

Loose Dentures a problem ?

Dental Technician

Loose dentures can be re-lined by adding a thin layer of the new acrylic to fit the surface of the dentures, making them fit better.

Also now available is Ultra Suction™ this is a new product that can be incorporated into the denture.

Ultra Suction™ when fitted into the denture helps to hold the denture firm and secure and can be fitted to existing dentures.

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

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

l l

Should I have a spare set of Dentures made?

l

Yes, it is very important to have a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage.

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Where do I go to have a good set of Dentures made?

Every dentist can make dentures, but not all of them will specialise in denture making.

Ask your Dental Technician for recommendations of suitable Dentist.

Summary 1. Clean your dentures daily with a denture brush and denture cream.

2. Have your dentures inspected every two years, and re-lined or ultra-sonically cleaned.

3. Have a new set made every 5 years if possible.

4. Keep a spare set for emergencies.

5. Remember, dentures do not have to hurt and do not need to be uncomfortable.

6. With a new set of dentures, you should receive a written guarantee, a detailed prescription of the materials used in your dentures, cleaning and servicing instructions, and a cleaning kit.

7. Dentures so life-like you’d think they were real. www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

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Dentures Valplast Flexible Partials Ultra Suction Denture Repairs Copy Dentures Gum Shields

Ring for an appointment All work Guaranteed Competitive Rates Dentures Repaired

While you shop (waiting time approx. 2 hours) Dentures Strengthened or Remodelled by a Qualified Technician

Telephone:01242 522322 First Floor, 22 Suffolk Road, Cheltenham, Glos. GL50 2AQ. www.cotswolddentallab.co.uk e: info@cotswolddentallab.co.uk 27

ARE YOU ONE OF THE SANDWICH GENERATION? In 1957, Harold McMillan told the British public ‘we’d never had it so good’ and it was true we were enjoying better health and prosperity. Inevitably, this led to longer life spans, and the phenomena of the sandwich generation.

At the beginning of the 20th century, around 6% of people in their sixties still had one parent living. Today the figure is around 50%. At the same time, in 2000, 52% of young adults were living with their parents, and this figure is still rising. This has led to a situation where couples coming up to retirement are caring for ageing parents, while still supporting their adult children. This is the sandwich generation, worrying about financing their own retirement, their parents and their children. While many 80 year olds are still hale and hearty, there are many who need constant care and attention, resulting in huge stress levels for those responsible for them. If you’re one of these, it’s time to take stock and explore all avenues. which could help.

PLAN AHEAD Difficult as it may be, you need to discuss issues with your parents. Discuss their assets, check with them where they want to live, and who should make legal and medical decisions if they are no longer capable of handling their affairs.

The decision of where they wish to live may be taken out of your hands, if they reach a stage when they need full time care. At this stage, it’s important to find a nursing home with staff who treat their elderly residents with respect, and which provides a pleasant environment for your parents to live out their remaining years. This is easier said than done. First you need to research available government help to fund care, and ensure that your parents are correctly

assessed to ensure they’re getting all the funding they are entitled to. Age Concern provides a number of detailed booklets on this issue.

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

ORGANISATIONS TO EXPLORE NHS Choices provides a comprehensive health information service on finding and using NHS services in England.

The Directgov website contains information about public services all in one place.

Age Concern and Help the Aged have combined to become Age UK, which provides a huge body of information and advice to older people and their relatives.

CARE IN THE HOME

Home from Hospital

It may be that care in the home is the preferred option, and this is where you need to spend time making sure that all available help from your local council is fully explored, and a correct assessment of necessary care is arrived at.

A spell in hospital can leave you feeling anxious and sometimes quite vulnerable. The Home from Hospital Service provides re-assurance and practical support to help get you back on your feet for up to 4 weeks following discharge from hospital.

Check out the Care Quality Commission. This is the independent regulator of health and adult social care in England. It registers care services that meet standards and make constant inspections to check that these standards are kept and take action if standards fall.

If you are over 50 years old and have been discharged from a Gloucestershire Hospital and need support please telephone 01452 420906.

Direct Payments are a Government initiative designed to give people the freedom to purchase their own care and support, so since 2002 all Social Services departments offer the option of a Direct Payment to people who receive a social care and support service.

Age UK Gloucestershire, Bleak House, 26 Station Road, Gloucester GL1 1EW. 28

Following an assessment by their local Social Services the person receiving the direct payments can use the money for different types of services.

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CARE These include: • Personal care and support • Day care (including domestic help) • ‘Mixed’ packages of support • Short-term residential care • Items of equipment

parents and your children - you first have to keep your own financial house in order. Try not to raid your own retirement savings to pay for your children’s college education or your parents’ long-term care. Students should take out student loans if necessary, and you should use your parents own assets to finance their care for as long as possible.

Direct Payments can also be used for employing a ‘personal assistant’ or arranging care from a private agency. Your local Social Services team will be able to advise you further. There are many benefits to Direct Payments – they allow a greater level of flexibility and freedom for the person who needs the care and support. By employing a care and support worker directly, there is greater choice as to whom the person has looking after them; what times they come and what tasks they perform. People who are eligible to receive a Direct Payment, instead of their ‘usual’ support include:

And finally, remember you’re all in this together. Don’t be a martyr. Take control and get the whole family on board to help. Getting stressed is counter productive, so make sure you get some time for yourself. Young adults still at home can occasionally take over household duties and visit their grandparents. They could accompany them on hospital visits or doctors’ appointments, and gain enormously from increased contact with an older generation.

• • • •

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

PRESERVE YOUR ASSETS The only person who can save for your retirement is you. To avoid many sandwich generation problems - and help your

This is a time in your life when your parents and your children are dependent on you, so look after your health, take time out to keep up with your friends, and keep your sense of humour.

Nothing lasts forever, and sooner or later, your children will find their independence and fly the nest. You’ll miss them when they go. Make the most of your time with them.

Cherish your parents. They won’t be with you forever, so while you’re coping with their problems, remember how they once helped you with yours, and give them a hug from time to time.

Call our professional team on 01452 414952 Our staff

Contact us

Our staff are caring, trained to give medication and police checked.

Visit us online at www.bluebirdcare.co.uk Call our professional team on 01452 414952

Alternative

What we offer

Bluebird Care offers a realistic cost effective alternative to residential care. With familiar friends, relatives and possessions around, Bluebird Care ‘just happens’

We offer everything from personal care to shopping, cleaning or social visits. In fact everything you need to stay in the comfort of your own home.

www.bluebirdcare.co.uk Bluebird Care, Suite 4 Westgate House, The Island, Gloucester GL1 2RU.

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29

90 years of Insulin

“Insulin is a wonderful thing and those who use it must respect it” 23 January 2012 marked the 90th anniversary of the fi rst successful use of insulin, arguably one of the greatest medical advances of the twentieth century. Since then, millions of people worldwide have used insulin, usually in the form of injections, to regulate their blood glucose levels and stay alive.

Not long after the first insulin treatment began on a 14-year-old boy, in 1934 novelist HG Wells and his practitioner Dr RD Lawrence, both of whom had diabetes, set up the Diabetic Association aiming to make sure that everyone in the UK could gain access to insulin. This charity later became Diabetes UK. Today Diabetes UK is the leading charity for over 3.7 million people in the UK with diabetes – 2.9 million diagnosed and an estimated 850,000 who have diabetes but do not know it - their families, friends and healthcare professionals. The charity cares for, connects with and campaigns on behalf of all people affected by and at risk of diabetes.

Richard Lane 68, President of Diabetes UK, has been taking insulin for more than 35 years and has seen the technology in administering insulin advance in leaps and bounds: “I used to use glass syringes which would have to be boiled and their needles sharpened. A lot has changed since then and I now use a state-of-theart insulin pump and sensor. It provides me with a remarkable amount of information about my blood glucose levels, which is transmitted wirelessly from a sensor to the actual pump which feeds me insulin. Data can be downloaded onto a computer and a detailed profile of my condition is put together. This life-changing technology means I can now keep a closer eye on my diabetes and manage it well.”

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Richard says he feels “humble” to have access to this modern technology and is concerned that hundreds of people are denied insulin sensors and pumps and strongly believes that they should be available for all people if they are suitable.

Richard is very conscious that insulin keeps him alive and without it he wouldn’t be able to live the active life that he does: “Insulin is a wonderful thing and those of us who use it must respect it. We have to be aware of how to use it and how things could go wrong if we don’t treat our condition properly.”

In addition to self-managing diabetes, it is important that people with the condition are provided with the right care from their healthcare professionals. Diabetes UK has launched the 15 healthcare essentials initiative to identify the 15 care checks which all people with diabetes should have access to.

For more information, visit their website: www.diabetes.org.uk Read Richard Lane’s blog to see who he’s been sharing his experiences with across the world recently: http://blogs.diabetes.org.uk/?cat=241

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The Age UK Guaranteed Funeral Plan

Will your savings be enough to cover funeral costs in years to come?

Most people rely on savings, investments or life assurance to cover funeral costs, but these may not have the benefits of a Funeral Plan. Some savings and investments simply can’t keep pace with rising funeral costs.

The Age UK Guaranteed Funeral Plan allows you to pre-pay your funeral expenses at today’s prices, ensuring that your loved ones won’t have to meet the key costs when the time comes. The cost of the services included in the plan is guaranteed to be covered.

Why it’s important to act sooner rather than later Like most things these days, the cost of funerals is rising – and rising fast. In fact, while the average cost of a funeral in 2010 was £2,857* it’s projected to rise to £4,050† by 2015. Those increases are not only outstripping inflation, but also the return many people are receiving on their savings and investments. So if you thought that you had set aside sufficient funds to pay for your funeral, you may wish to think again.

Freeze funeral costs at today’s prices The good news is that unlike any other way of funding your funeral – a savings account, investment or life assurance plan, for instance – the Age UK Guaranteed Funeral Plan allows you to freeze funeral costs at today’s prices.

So you can take out a plan today, safe in the knowledge that you’re protected against any further price rises.

Your cremation funeral costs are guaranteed to be met in full, no matter how long you live.

Arrange your funeral the way you want it to be As well as ticking all the right boxes when it comes to paying for your funeral, the Age UK Guaranteed Funeral Plan is flexible enough to allow you to make your own personal arrangements. Besides offering a choice of three plans to suit a range of needs and budgets, you can add your own special refinements in your own time.

Your acceptance is guaranteed If you’re aged 50 or over, acceptance to the plan is guaranteed, whatever your state of health. There will be none of the questions or medicals associated with many life assurance plans.

Spreading the cost to suit your budget The Age UK Guaranteed Funeral Plan comes at an affordable price – with the option to spread payments over 12 or 60 months or even up to ten years! It offers a most affordable way to take care of funeral costs in full.

Information Services Often people are not aware of all the support that is available to them, or they may be faced with a problem they don’t know how to solve. Just a few ways in which we can help are by: • Pointing you in the right direction to get the support you need • Checking that you are receiving all the benefits you are entitled to • Helping with filling in forms to claim more benefits if you qualify for them • Working with you to solve problems.

If you are over 50 years old and you need help, please contact Age UK Gloucestershire on 01452 422660.

Age UK Gloucestershire, Bleak House, 26 Station Road, Gloucester GL1 1EW.

**Source: AXA Mintel Funeral Costs Survey 2010. †Dignity.

Age UK Enterprises Limited is the commercial arm of Age UK (registered charity number 1128267) and donates its net profits to Age UK. Age UK is a registered trademark. The use of the name and logo ‘Age UK’ is done so under licence agreement between Age UK and Age UK Enterprises Limited. F3058V1JAN12

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Do you live with: • Diabetes

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