Derbyshire, Chesterfield & High Peak 42

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JANUARY - MARCH 2016

DERBYSHIRE, CHESTERFIELD & HIGH PEAK EDITION 42

Paul Nicholas

FROM JUST A GOOD FRIEND TO AN EASTEND GANGSTER PLUS

John Torode’s NEW RECIPES

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Buxton is maintaining its town centre shopping experience because one of the major magnets for shoppers, The Springs Shopping Centre, is in the very heart of the town.

Going to the shops remains a major British activity and the habit is alive and well in Buxton with the 50+ age group extremely well represented in visitor numbers to the The Springs.

The town is a regional retail hub for the villages and farms that surround Buxton and the wide mix of shops in The Springs provides an enduring attraction for both local shoppers and the increasing number of visitors to the town and the Peak District.

“We are perfectly positioned to help maintain Buxton as a genuine town centre shopping experience,” says The Springs manager, Carlon Stewart. “So many town centres are now suffering because many of the major shops are located outside the central area. We are quite literally part of the town’s main shopping thoroughfare and so, together with our retail partners in the high street, we maintain the vibrancy of the town centre.”

The key to The Springs success is the remarkably broad mix of retails outlets. Fashion and health play major roles within

this and, in addition, Waitrose is an important retailer and a significant attraction for many shoppers.

The UK health food supplement market is worth a staggering £350 million and more than 30% of British adults are regular consumers. Whether shoppers are aiming to meet their “Five A Day” fresh fruit and vegetable target, buy specialist health food supplements or have their eyes tested, the solution is in the centre.

Specialist shops covering this sector of the market include Vision Express, Boots Opticians, SpecSavers, Holland & Barrett, Superdrug and Grape Tree. Vitamins and other supplements and health foods are also available in other outlets.

For the fashionistas The Springs offers an excellent choice of designs and labels for both men and women of all ages.

New Look skilfully follows the international catwalk trends.

Next has something for all and is nationally recognised for its designs. Evans has a more traditional offering and Dorothy Perkins is a long-established retail name that has clothes for all ages.

“We are perfectly positioned to help maintain Buxton as a genuine town centre shopping experience...”

“It isn’t too clichéd to claim that there is something for everyone of every age in The Springs but a visit here is far more than just a shopping trip it is essentially a social experience. The majority of our shoppers are local people from the town and surrounding areas and I have often been told that this is the place to meet your friends and have a cup of coffee,” adds Carlon.

“It is the same for people who work locally. They come here at lunchtime to find something tasty and enjoyable and, above all, to be with other people. Our aim is to make The Springs far more than a shopping centre. It is an essential part of the social mix that makes up Buxton.”

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CONTENTS

TUNE IN TURN OFF! It’s that time of year again, short cold days and long dark nights.

Rather than being outside more and more of us will seek sanctuary in front of a screen indoors whether it be a smartphone, TV or other. Either way, poor posture generally ensues! This can throw the spine out of alignment and can subsequently affect the functioning of our bodies.

Ensuring a healthy spine and nervous system is crucial for our body and brain development whether child or adult. So easy solution: limit your screen time. What about putting those children's consoles to good use and playing an interactive tennis match or two.

And if you fancy giving your spine a service and getting advice as to how you can keep it as healthy as possible, why not pop in and see us soon?

“I'm in pain”

CAN CHIROPRACTIC HELP ME?

OFFER PRICE

£39 Expiry date20th 30thMarch June 2013 Expiry date 2016.

Your initial visit will include: • A private consultation with chiropractor • X rays if necessary (normally £60) • Spinal examination, orthopaedic and neurological tests • A confidential report of our findings • An explanation of our treatments procedure if we determine Chiropractic can help you • A referral to the appropriate specialist if we determine Chiropractic cannot help you

For a limited period we will complete a full consultation, examination, Neuro Scan, X ray, full report of findings and one treatment all for

£39.00

(Normally £130.00) (Normally £142.00) Expiry date 30th June 2013

INSIDE...

6-7

8-9

10-11

16-17

12-13

28-30

6-7

Twittering On With Graham Smith.

8-9

The Azores An amazing archipelago.

10-11

Robinsons Holidays Affordable peace of mind.

12-13

Amble Rather Than Ramble

16-17

Paul Nicholas From Just a Good Friend to an Eastend Gangster.

20-21

Downsizing & Decluttering Tips for your home.

28-30

My Kind Of Food John Torode shares some of his favourite recipes.

WE TREAT THESE CONDITIONS...

• HEADACHES, BACK PAIN, NECK PAIN • PREVENTION OF MIGRAINES • MUSCLE SPASMS, JOINT PAIN • TIRED ALL THE TIME, TENSION

IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS PLEASE CALL OUR CLINIC TODAY FOR AN APPOINTMENT

Andrew Jackson BA MSc Kerry Labuschagne MTech Chiro Fay Sidebottom M Chiro MARPLE CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

8-10 Derby Way, Marple SK6 7AH 0161 449 5006 www.chiropractichealthsolutions.co.uk

STOCKPORT CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

466 Didsbury Rd, Heaton Mersey, SK4 3BS 0161 432 6708

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

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It’s never too late to improve your health We have a range of activities at our Centres that will suit you ■ Swimming ■ Gym ■ Group workout classes ■ Badminton groups ■ Walking groups And more Contact us to today to get started GLOSSOP LEISURE CENTRE

01457 842272

BUXTON SWIMMING & FITNESS CENTRE

01298 766142

GLOSSOP SWIMMING POOL

01457 842262

NEW MILLS LEISURE CENTRE

01663 748842

www.placesforpeopleleisure.org

Operated by Places for People Leisure Ltd in partnership with High Peak Borough Council.

PP101635

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Twittering On with Graham Smith

“They are anointed and I declare passes when your children sit for Graham Smith exams. They are said to work for anyone who is sitting for any test,” he said.

According to Nigerian Watch, one parishioner testified: “My son is not very bright and I think this will help him.

With the knowledge he has acquired and this pen from the man of God, I think it is going to work.”

One student said he scored highly in his A-levels last year after using the pen he was given by the prophet.

Love a duck A bow-tie wearing duck has been injured in a drunken pub brawl with a local dog in Chulmleigh, Devon.

The booze-loving bird, affectionately named Star, was enjoying a pint in The Old Courthouse Inn with his handler, Barrie Hayman, when Hayman’s canine Meggie sparked a bar brawl.

Star was left with injuries to his beak after the fight.

“Star pushed his luck too far and Meggie snapped - splitting Star’s bottom beak right down the middle,” Hayman, 69, told the Cheddar Valley Gazette.

“He gave her a stare, then promptly stood on her back. It was not pretty and not nice. We were so scared we would lose Star.

“He had to be rushed to the vets and go under anaesthetic, which is always risky and could go either way with ducks and other small animals.

“Thankfully our Star is a tough cookie and it looks like he came out okay.”

Hayman has cared for Star ever since he was a chick, carrying him around in his pocket. Once the duckling grew up, he developed a taste for real ale and started following his owner to the pub.

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“He just won’t leave me and so we go everywhere together,” Hayman said.

“I’ve not trained him to follow me.

He just seems to like it and he is one fantastic duck.

“He loves to come to the pub, where everyone loves him. He is such a personality and attracts so much attention.”

Note the pastor’s Christian name…. they’re not all locked up are they?

Good baahaviour!

A sheep has been promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal in the British Army for good baa-haviour.

Chicken feed

Private Derby XXX was promoted to the rank at an event in Chester, marking eight years of being in the Mercian Regiment.

An Australian Thai restaurant has trained a live chicken to run its Twitter account.

The ram was awarded his honor by the Colonel of the regiment, Brigadier Andrew Williams.

Apparently the chicken pecks out the messages on the keyboard with its beak. Woe betide it if anything untoward appears there or I see a whole new meaning to chicken fried twice!

The Swaledale sheep is officially classed as a soldier and he is the 30th in a line of mascot rams running back to the Indian Mutiny War in the mid-19th Century.

Mighty pens!

Formerly known as Private Derby 30th, his promotion now entitles him to wear a single stripe on his uniform.

A Zimbabwean pastor has reportedly convinced his congregates his holy pens can make students pass their exams - and the more you pay for one, the better grades you’ll get.

Prophet Sham Hungwe of House of Grace International Church in Harare is selling the pens, which cost from $1 up to $20.

According to News24Zim, the prophet told his congregation those sitting exams only needed faith and one of the special pens to pass.

The Mercian Regiment celebrated his success on its Facebook page, writing: “He was resplendent in his scarlet coat with Lincoln green and gold facings, emblazoned with the Regiment’s main Battle Honours.”

During his career, Lance Corporal Derby XXX helped switch on the Christmas lights in Ashbourne and met Prince William at the unveiling of a memorial commemorating the 1914 Christmas Truce.

TWITTERING ON

Crazy news Traditional newspaper circulation is plummeting like a stone and it seems some will stop at nothing to spin a crazy yarn to attract readers.

It all began years ago with the “Freddie Starr ate my hamster” farce, conjured up by a ne’er do well publicist now residing at Her Majesty’s pleasure.

Looking at some of today’s offerings that story almost becomes believable. The Daily Express, once a highly respected broadsheet newspaper, is now the epitomy of tabloid tack. Only recently they reported that aliens found just 25 miles above the earth could hold the secret of life. Well of course they could, any fool knows that. They’ll be telling us next that 650 elected MPs in Westminster are good for the country, we’d believe that as well wouldn’t we?

But this has to be my favourite. One fan of the treat pease pudding alarmed security at Newcastle Airport who were concerned by its apparent similarity to the dangerous explosive Semtex.

The passenger was taking tubs of the

treat on an easyJet flight to Gatwick when he was stopped during routine searches of hand luggage.

The 58-year-old, an actor from Newcastle who now lives in Sussex, offered to let staff taste the dish but they declined.

“I love my pease pudding,” said the passenger, who wished to remain anonymous.

“I think the resemblance to Semtex was pushing it a bit far as it was in containers marked pease pudding.

Pease pudding is made from boiled legumes and traditionally loved in the North East of England.

“But I did have six tubs to take back down south with me.I told them that they could taste it if they wanted to.

“One of the security guys said to me that it had come up on the scanner. He told me ‘technically, this could be classed as Semtex’.

“I told them that they could taste it if they wanted to.

“At that point they said ‘next time put it in the hold’.”

After airport staff further examined the six tubs the traveller was cleared to take them on the flight.

The anonymous passenger added: “I was very glad that they allowed me to keep them in the end.

“It is quite hard to get your hands on pease pudding down south.”

An HM Customs spokeswoman said: “There is no customs policy with regard to pease pudding so far as I am aware.”

A spokeswoman for Newcastle Airport said they did not comment on security matters.

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The Azores – an amazing archipelago

By Jennie Carr from Silver Travel Advisor Islands are fascinating places, and none more so than The Azores, an archipelago of nine islands in the mid-Atlantic.

The result of a volcanic ridge, they are in fact, Portuguese, officially discovered in 1432 by Goncalo Velho Cabral, even though Lisbon is nearly 1,500 kilometres to the east.

And why on earth would you visit these somewhat isolated islands? Ben Fogle, adventurer, explorer and broadcaster, waxes lyrical about The Azores due to the contrasts that occur within them – other worldly landscapes as you would imagine on the moon, with pumice stone and frozen lava formations, then a hillside away, lush, dense plants growing in the fertile volcanic soil producing magnificent azaleas and hydrangeas.

The volcanic craters are now filled with deep blue, green lakes and steaming,

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bubbling fumaroles, a reminder that whilst the local volcanoes are dormant, they are certainly not extinct! A trip to the Furnas Valley will swiftly provide evidence of this. Another great fan of The Azores, Noel Josephides founder of Sunvil Holidays, compares them to New Zealand, both in their startling geographical features and also their ambiance, more of which later.

The British are famous for their love of gardens and plants, which are some of the greatest attractions here, with the hydrangeas producing stunning displays across the islands in June and in April, the azaleas are at their best.

The wild agapanthus grow with gusto and rather gorgeous tree ferns add to the remarkable list of self-seeding plants here. It seems as if the climate, which is mild and temperate due to the Gulf Stream, where even on winter days it never gets colder than 14C, with the summers reaching about 27C and rain

TRAVEL always a possibility, combined with the rich earth provide growing conditions in which almost anything can flourish.

The unexpected Gorreana tea estate and plantation, over 125 years old, is certainly testament to this as are the pineapple greenhouses on Sao Miguel, where the Ananaz (the specific pineapple grown on the Azores) is celebrated.

So apart from the horticulture, what is there to do? These islands are certainly a draw for the outdoor types, there is walking and hiking aplenty to enjoy, just so long as you take a good waterproof jacket as a shower is never far away. The UNESCO heritage site at Santa Luzia vineyards is certainly worth a visit and if your legs are up to it, Mount Pico can be climbed! For those who are happy in or on water, kayaking and canyoning are on offer, the former a gentle way to explore the coast line of dramatic cliffs and the latter a type of coastal obstacle course which really gets you up close and personal with nature. There is no getting away from the fact that The Azores are in the middle of the Atlantic, so a boat trip is a must, with the strong possibility of seeing whales, sharks and mantra rays. And swimming with dolphins is an option too.

To return to the ambiance of The Azores, they are proclaimed to be ‘homely’ rather than sophisticated, no designer clothing needed, sturdy footwear essential, running at a leisurely pace and on ‘island’ time, which does sound relaxing and rather calming.

Accommodation here is comfortable, with small family hotels and charming quintas, giving the opportunity to get to know the locals and understand the way of life. International hotel chains have yet to arrive here, no bad thing perhaps for preserving a special place.

And whilst the islands are based on historic volcanic activity, it seems that

the current tranquil, laid back lifestyle is doing all it can to counteract this. Ben Fogle’s infectious enthusiasm for the Azores encourages all active travellers to pay a visit and find out more.

Visit silvertraveladvisor.com and type Ben Fogel into the Search box to listen to his radio interview with Jennie Carr.

Visit the Azores with the experts - Sunvil Discovery The unspoiled beauty of the Azorean archipelago, the warm and welcoming nature of the local people and the abundance of wildlife – whales, dolphins, turtles and migrating birds to name a few captured the heart of independent tour operator, Sunvil Discovery, 25 years ago.

With first-hand knowledge of the nine islands, the team at Sunvil can carefully craft a holiday to meet your individual requirements.

Whether you are searching for a whale and dolphin watching holiday; a multi-island adventure; a trip incorporating visits to fascinating sites of geological importance and botanical gardens, a climb of MountPico – Portugal’s highest peak or walking, jeep touring, canyoning and kayaking, they can help.

Prices from £543 per person including return direct flights from London Gatwick, transfers and 7-nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation on Sao Miguel.

For more information visit www.sunvil.co.uk/discovery Or call + 44 (0)20 8758 4722

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

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Offering Great Value Holidays For Over 90 Years

from only

£129 Sunny Sussex Eastbourne

Located on the south coast within the historic county of Sussex, lies the elegant seaside resort of Eastbourne. Renowned for its top sunshine records and award winning beaches, Eastbourne is understandably a popular holiday destination for all.

With a sprinkling of high street shops, centrally located, a Victorian pier and a rich history boasting a variety of castles, museums and galleries, Eastbourne is sure to cater for your every need.

Imperial Hotel Located just a stone’s throw away from the promenade and band stand, this grand Victorian hotel is full of character and home to a number of spacious, comfortable bedrooms, all accessible via lifts.

Guests are able to unwind in the relaxing lounge area before an evening meal in the Majestic Restaurant, offering hearty, home cooked food.

Hotel facilities l All rooms are en-suite with telephone, television and hairdryer l Free WiFi in Public areas l Premier rooms available* l Complimentary tea and coffee in all rooms l Waiter service l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Table d’hôte menu l Optional a la carte menu available l Live entertainment most evenings l Ballroom/Dance floor l Two lifts serving all floors l Porterage.

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The Garden Isle Isle of Wight

Take a short boat ride across the Solent and discover the Isle of Wight, an island of astounding natural beauty with a variety of attractions to suit all ages.

Located on the south east coast of the island, the traditional seaside resort of Shanklin is home to golden sandy beaches and a quaint collection of shops housed in traditional thatched cottages. It is understandably one of the most popular resorts on the island with plenty to entertain.

Ocean View Hotel Situated in a premier location with an idyllic seaside position, the charming, well-appointed Ocean View Hotel boasts uninterrupted panoramic views across Sandown Bay. The hotel also offers a large sprung dance floor and provides live entertainment most evenings.

Hotel facilities l All rooms are en-suite with telephone, television and hairdryer l Free WiFi in Public areas l Premier and sea views rooms available* l Complimentary tea and coffee in all rooms l Waiter service l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Licensed bar l Table d’hôte menu l Optional a la carte menu available l Live entertainment most evenings l Ballroom/Dance floor l Heated indoor swimming pool l Indoor bowling green, table tennis and snooker room l Lift serving all floors l Porterage.

Please note that on each floor of the hotel, some steps may need to be negotiated.

Delightful Devon Torquay

Located in the heart of the English Riviera, Torquay is renowned for its mild climate, award winning sandy beaches and secluded coves and has been a popular holiday destination since the early 19th century.

With its distinctive European atmosphere, sophisticated environment and beautifully varied scenery, Torquay remains a popular holiday destination.

Abbey Lawn Hotel If you’re looking to unwind in style, this elegant Georgian hotel is the place to stay. Located in the grounds of the former Torre Abbey with stunning views of the bay, the Abbey Lawn hotel offers an exceptional standard of comfort throughout.

The hotel comprises superb facilities, including a heated indoor swimming pool and a conservatory lounge overlooking the bay, where guests can relax and enjoy a drink.

Hotel facilities l All rooms are en-suite with telephone, television and hairdryer l Free WiFi in Public areas l Premier and front facing rooms available* l Complimentary tea and coffee in all rooms l Waiter service l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Licensed bar l Table d’hôte menu l Optional a la carte menu available l Live entertainment most evenings l Ballroom/Dance floor l Heated indoor pool l Lift serving all floors l Porterage.

The Robinsons Difference Local joining points l No single supplements* l High standard of accommodation l Great choice of menus l Executive coaches with extra legroom l Includes excursions l Friendly staff l Own hotels in great locations l Peace of mind security l Payment in instalments * Robinsons own hotels l

9 Day Tours 2016

8 nts dinner, bed & breakfast IMPERIAL OCEAN VIEW 30 Apr 07 May 14 May 21 May 28 May 04 Jun 11 Jun 18 Jun 25 Jun 02 Jul 09 Jul 16 Jul 23 Jul 30 Jul 06 Aug 13 Aug 20 Aug 27 Aug 03 Sept 10 Sept 17 Sept 24 Sept 01 Oct 15 Oct 29 Oct 06 Nov 26 Nov

£395 £409 £419 £429 £429 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £419 £409 £399 £389 £309 £299 £289 £309 £309

£395 £409 £419 £429 £429 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £419 £409 £399 £389 £309 £299 £289 £309 £309

ABBEY LAWN £395 £409 £419 £429 £429 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £419 £409 £399 £389 £309 £299 £289 £309 £309

Only standard rooms available on 9 Day Tours

8 Day Tours 2016

7 nts dinner, bed & breakfast IMPERIAL OCEAN VIEW 30 Apr 01 May 07 May 08 May 14 May 15 May 21 May 22 May 28 May 29 May 04 Jun 05 Jun 11 Jun 12 Jun 18 Jun 19 Jun 25 Jun 26 Jun 02 Jul 03 Jul 09 Jul 10 Jul 16 Jul 17 Jul 23 Jul 24 Jul 30 Jul 31 Jul 06 Aug 07 Aug 13 Aug 14 Aug 20 Aug 21 Aug 27 Aug 28 Aug 03 Sept 04 Sept 10 Sept 11 Sept 17 Sept 18 Sept 24 Sept 25 Sept

£349 £349 £359 £359 £369 £369 £379 £379 £389 £389 £399 £399 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £389 £389 £379 £379 £369 £369 £359 £359

£349 £349 £359 £359 £369 £369 £379 £379 £389 £389 £399 £399 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £389 £389 £379 £379 £369 £369 £359 £359

7 Day Tours 2016

6 nts dinner, bed & breakfast

ABBEY LAWN £349 £349 £359 £359 £369 £369 £379 £379 £389 £389 £399 £399 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £409 £389 £389 £379 £379 £369 £369 £359 £359

Imperial Hotel Supplements per person: Premier Room - £35 Abbey Lawn Hotel Supplements per person: Premier Room - £50 Front Facing Room - £15 Ocean View Hotel Supplements per person: Premier Room - £50 Sea View Room - £15

IMPERIAL OCEAN VIEW 27 Mar 03 Apr 10 Apr 17 Apr 24 Apr 01 May 08 May 15 May 22 May 29 May 05 Jun 12 Jun 19 Jun 26 Jun 03 Jul 10 Jul 17 Jul 24 Jul 31 Jul 07 Aug 14 Aug 21 Aug 28 Aug 04 Sept 11 Sept 18 Sept 25 Sept 09 Oct 23 Oct 06 Nov 20 Nov

£219 £229 £249 £259 £269 £299 £315 £325 £335 £345 £355 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £369 £369 £359 £329 £249 £239 £259 £259

£219 £229 £249 £259 £269 £299 £315 £325 £335 £345 £355 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £369 £369 £359 £329 £249 £239 £259 £259

ABBEY LAWN £219 £229 £249 £259 £269 £299 £315 £325 £335 £345 £355 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £369 £369 £359 £329 £249 £239 £259 £259

Only standard rooms available on 7 Day Tours

We offer you ...

3 4/6/7/8 nights dinner, bed & breakfast 3 2 included excursions 3 Local pick-up points 3 Service of driver courier

Your Groups’ Specialist for coach holidays in the UK and Europe

We can tailor make tours to your specific requirements, if you want more information then contact our groups department on 0800 7851025 or email groups@robinsons-holidays.co.uk

With over 90 years of experience in tailor making holidays, we at Robinsons offer a personal service. Whether you need help with part or all of your groups holidays we can lend a hand in organising, booking and everything in-between.

We are flexible in our approach and can offer destinations found in this brochure or we can tailor make to your specification, whether in the UK or Europe. We offer all of our group’s excellent benefits: • 1 FREE place for every 10 paying passengers • Special interest and activity groups catered for • Complete financial security-BCH Bonded

5 Day Tours 2016

4 nts dinner, bed & breakfast IMPERIAL OCEAN VIEW 08 Feb £129 15 Feb £139 22 Feb £139 29 Feb £139 07 Mar £155 14 Mar £159 21 Mar £165 25 Mar £175 30 Mar £169 04 Apr £175 11 Apr £179 18 Apr £185 25 Apr £189 02 May £199 06 May £205 10 May £209 16 May £215 20 May £219 24 May £225 30 May £229 03 Jun £239 07 Jun £239 13 Jun £239 17 Jun £239 21 Jun £239 27 Jun £239 01 Jul £239 05 Jul £239 11 Jul £239 15 Jul £239 19 Jul £239 25 Jul £239 29 Jul £239 02 Aug £239 08 Aug £239 12 Aug £239 16 Aug £239 22 Aug £239 26 Aug £239 30 Aug £239 05 Sept £239 09 Sept £235 13 Sept £229 19 Sept £225 23 Sept £219 27 Sept £215 01 Oct £209 05 Oct £205 09 Oct £199 15 Oct £195 19 Oct £189 23 Oct £185 29 Oct £179 02 Nov £189 06 Nov £189 12 Nov £185 16 Nov £185 20 Nov £179 26 Nov £179 30 Nov £179 * 05 Dec £169 * 12 Dec £159 † 23 Dec £399  29 Dec £349

£129 £139 £139 £139 £155 £159 £165 £175 £169 £175 £179 £185 £189 £199 £205 £209 £215 £219 £225 £229 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £239 £235 £229 £225 £219 £215 £209 £205 £199 £195 £189 £185 £179 £189 £189 £185 £185 £179 £179 £179 £169 £159 £399 £349

ABBEY LAWN £129 £139 £139 £139 £155 £159 £165 £175 £169 £175 £179 £185 £189 £209 £205 £199 £195 £189 £185 £179 £189 £189 £185 £185 £179 £179 £179 £169 £159 £399 £349

Imperial Hotel: Supplements per person: Premier Room £20 Ocean View: Supplements per person: Premier Room £30 Front Facing Room: £10 Abbey Lawn : Supplements per person: Premier Room £30 Front Facing Room: £10 Turkey & Tinsel; * Unlimited single rooms; † Christmas Tour includes 3 resort lunches & 1 mystery excursion -  New Year Tour includes 3 resort lunches & 1 mystery excursion

Robinsons Holidays, Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP

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memories are likely to be mutual. And also knowing that the holidays will enable us to take a little gentle exercise - if only to prove that we can still do it.

Adagio is a collection of holidays from Ramblers Worldwide aimed at those who nowadays prefer to amble rather than ramble. And “Montalbano’s Sicily” fits the bill as perfectly as the inspector’s sharp suits fit the frame of actor Luca Zingaretti.

There is much of interest in that somewhat neglected south eastern region of Sicily - the world heritage site of Ragusa, Syracuse, the Baroque town of Noto and the cave systems of the Cava Ispica gorge. Including locations featured in the television programmes adds a little fun to the mix. As does a three-course lunch and wine-tasting at Noto.

Let’s Amble rather than Ramble

By John Carter

John Carter, patron of Silver Travel Advisor and long-time presenter of TV’s ‘Wish You Were Here’ and “The Holiday Programme” and seasoned globetrotter now enjoys a little ambling rather than rambling to various tantalising destinations.

We encountered no British holidaymakers when, in 1972, we went to Aghios Nikolaos on the north coast of Crete. Two years later, the resort was packed with them.

A BBC television drama “The Lotus Eaters”, had been filmed there, and fans were eager to follow the footsteps of their heroes and heroines. The harbour cafes sported handwritten notices - in that style of bad English the Greeks do so well - informing us that this or that place was the very establishment where the stars had eaten (“Shrims in Clay Pot” being a favoured dish).

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Why recall that ancient memory?

Because of Inspector Montalbano.

The stories by Andrea Camilleri were adapted for television in Italy, found their way to BBC Four and recently enjoyed considerable popularity in that channel’s Saturday evening “Subtitle Slot”. So much so that a holiday dedicated to the Sicilian hero appears in the latest Adagio brochure.

I have a soft spot for Adagio as I was in at the birth of the idea. It comes to all of us as the years take their toll - the stiffening of the joints, the thickening of the waist and the realisation that, though the spirit is more than willing to tackle the roughest of rambling trails, the flesh is weaker.

The ideal solution is to take holidays with folk with whom we can share our memories, knowing that those

As I mentioned earlier, I have a soft spot for Adagio and think it provides an ideal holiday for anyone who has enjoyed more active breaks in the past but who - for all sorts of reasons prefers to take life at a slightly slower pace. You’ll find yourself with likeminded folk who will, more often than not, share memories of past holidays and destinations with which you are already familiar.

In this context, I was a little concerned to see they’ve introduced something called Adagio Plus to the 2016 programme - offering “more challenging walking opportunities”.

From what I gather, it is a way of combining the occasional morning on the hoof with some afternoon

TRAVEL

sightseeing - which doesn’t seem to be too taxing. Just as long as they don’t get carried away.

the cable cars and alpine railways of the region, which are used to carry you to fine walking country.

Some of these holidays are, literally, mouthwatering. One is based in Bologna, Italy’s gastronomic capital. Instead of dwelling on the sights to be seen, I found myself thinking of the food - mortadella, parma ham, parmesan cheese and the like. I ate and drank very well indeed when I was last in Bologna. I even did some sightseeing, but not much. The city’s nickname “la grassa” (the fat one) is well earned, and this holiday enables you to visit, in addition, historic locations such as Ravenna and Modena.

But, as I said, the walking has to be regarded as the cherry on the cake with these holidays, aimed as they are at people who have chosen to take holidays, and life, at a slower pace.

Another destination which recently surprised me by the range and high quality of its cuisine is the Istrian peninsula of Croatia. My far more knowledgeable companion took me to several restaurants and small hotels during the course of a week, where we ate extremely well. I was introduced to the “slow food” movement - which began as a protest against American-style fast food, but which took on a wonderful life of its own.

It is quite remarkable how well one can now eat in Croatia, and for that matter in other parts of former Yugoslavia.

Those of us old enough to remember when it was not “former” will know all too well how limited in scope and style its cuisine used to be. Nowadays, in restaurants throughout Istria, you can discuss with the waiter the merits of the various olive oils on offer before going on to discuss the wine list.

Factbox: Silver Travel Advisor recommends Adagio Holidays. For more information, visit adagio.co.uk or contact info@adagio.co.uk or call 01707 386700

ARCHAEOLOGY & TRAVEL Perfect Combinations of Leisure and Interest • Minoan Crete & Santorini • Cyprus: North & South • Pompeii & Campania • Malta's Millennia • Ancient Greece

I’m pleased to see that the ancient town of Rovinj features in this holiday. I think it is a gem. It still shows evidence (specifically carvings of the winged lion of St. Mark) of its link with the Venetian empire, but before the Venetians, there was Illyria, the Roman and the Byzantine eras.

France, Portugal and the Azores are also in this latest programme, along with holidays to Estonia and Latvia as well as the island of Jersey. A winning mixture of comfortable hotels, leisurely (and, of course, optional) walking, the pleasant company of like-minded folk, and some first class food and wine. Switzerland is featured, too. One holiday to Zermatt and the Matterhorn features

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Great south south Great coast holidays coast holidays Coach SELF-DRIVE & & COACH COACH INCLUSIVE INCLUSIVE BREAKS BREAKS SELF-DRIVE

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When itit comes comes to to inviting, inviting, relaxing relaxing When breaks in in the the south, south, we we have have the the breaks ideal holiday holiday for for you. you. ideal Whether you’re after family-friendly holidays, a romantic getaway Whether you’re after family-friendly holidays, a romantic getaway or a group break with like-minded people, our seven hotels cover or a group break with like-minded people, our seven hotels cover the south’s finest locations. From the popular beaches of Cornwall the south’s finest locations. From the popular beaches of Cornwall to the cosy Isle of Wight, there’s something for everyone. to the cosy Isle of Wight, there’s something for everyone.

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NEWQUAY - BARROWFIELD HOTEL DATE

January

22-Feb

08

5 5

EM3

DESTINATION HOTEL

25-Jan

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

5

Half

COACH DAYS BOARD INCLUSIVE £134 PRICE

5

EM3

5

EM3

01

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

5

£164 Half

09

WEYMOUTH - REGENT5HOTEL Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne Half

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

Half

£109

11

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

Half

£89

12

Half£139 £89

14

Half

24

16

EASTBOURNE - CLAREMONT HOTEL

5 2330-Jan Russell Hotel – Weymouth Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

5

23-Feb

February

EM44 EM4

5

£104

£164

30

14-Mar

5

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

5

Half

5

Half

EM3

£124 £164 £129

£169

£139

WEYMOUTH - RUSSELL5HOTEL Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay Half Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

6

Half

5

Half

21-Jan

5

EM3

5

EM3

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

£129 £174

£119

£169

0106-Mar Claremont Hotel5– Eastbourne EM4 5

Half£179 £124

April17-Mar

02

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay

5

Half

£99

02

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

7

Half

£214

04

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

5

Half

£119

06

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth

5

Half

£154

Half£194 £109

09

Barrowfield Hotel –5Newquay EM3 5 08-Mar

Half

£144 £154

5

22-Mar

0503-Apr Devonshire Hotel5– Torquay

EM4

EM45

£184

£159

BOURNEMOUTH - SANDS HOTEL

11

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

5

Half

£109

22

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

Half

£179

17

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

Half

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight

6

Half

£184

4 EM3

Half

£114 £304

SHANKLIN - DAISHS HOTEL

LLANDUDNO - SOMERSET HOTEL

£139

23

2215-Feb Barrowfield Hotel5– NewquayEM3 5

Half£134 £109

24

25

Half

May

Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne

5

£139

Russell Hotel – Weymouth 8 12-Mar

Prices shown are per person based 5on two Room.

27 Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight Half people £124 sharing 05 a Standard Barrowfield Hotel –Supplements Newquay 5apply Halfon twin/ £154 double rooms with sole occupancy. Optional local excursions can be booked at the hotel. Many more 20 Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight 5 Half £184 coach or self-drive holiday dates available in 2015. If you would prefer to self-drive, deduct £20 per person 21 Claremont Hotel – Eastbourne 6 Half £244 from prices shown.

Weymouth Weymouth Weymouth Prices shown are per Weymouth person based on two people sharing a

June

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 2015. If you would prefer to self-drive, deduct £20 per person from prices shown.

bournemouth Torquay

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Devonshire Hotel – Torquay

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Somerset Hotel

Paul Nicholas

Eastenders Bad Boy

Laid-back high-achiever Paul catches up with us to discuss his long career, from Just Good Friends right up to his current role as Gavin Sullivan in Eastenders.

It's quite likely that one of the keys to actor Paul Nicholas’s success is a no-stress policy that extends to most parts of his life.

When we talked, he was in the middle of a lengthy run of the Agatha Christie play “And Then There Were None”, and had been playing in Westcliff on Sea that day. “We’re somewhere else next week but I’m not sure where,” he replies in the familiar and friendly tones that

16 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

have endeared him to TV and theatre audiences for the past 40 or so years.

The exact tour location wasn’t somewhere he was particularly worried about but the play – in which he is a judge “typically serious and quite posh, actually” – was one project sandwiched among several. For example, he had also just come back from a stint directing the musical “Tommy” in Blackpool with Joe McEldery – “who is brilliant and really can sing”.

These commitments had made another facet of his recent career, as Kathy Beale’s husband, Gavin Sullivan, in TV

favourite “EastEnders”, a challenge to achieve as filming had to be arranged around the hectic Nicholas schedule.

So, was he enjoying this new TV role.

“Oh yes,” he asserts, happily. “I love doing different things and this is great.” Gavin is a bit nasty, but you will get to know his nice side as well. It will be interesting to see how his character develops.

This laidback but high-achieving approach has stood Paul Nicholas in good stead ever since he first came to public attention as a pop singer called Paul Dean in the late 1970s. He had

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW a small screen regular and favourite for millions, especially women.

Since then, he has returned to the theatre to play numerous roles, notably as the Pirate King in “The Pirates of Penzance” and in the lead role in “Barnum”.

He has both toured and had West End runs. His mercurial nature means he doesn’t mind touring too much, although he was hoping that his EastEnders’ character would have some longevity as “it’s only half an hour away from home for filming and so it’s easy.”

...we all need to continue doing the things we like, and also doing a variety of things.

I think that’s what keeps you healthy. two Top Ten hits but then decided to combine singing with acting and headed for the stage, taking the role of Rum Tum Tugger in the original London cast of the musical “Cats” in the early 1980s to great success.

He also had a film career around this time with appearances in the Beatles’ film “Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” and followed that up with “The World is Full of Married Men.” He then went against his perceived nice-guy type as the loutish punk singer in “The Jazz Singer” before starring with Joan Collins in “The Nutcracker” in 1983.

What many TV fans remember Paul most for, however, was the role of Vince in the gentle romantic comedy “Just Good Friends” with Jan Francis, written by John Sullivan. Millions tuned in each week to see how the engaging romance, and its two charismatic central characters, fared.

It ended in 1986 with the couple marrying and afterwards Paul starred in major drama series “Bust” and another “Close to Home” - a sitcom about a vet.

In fact, during this period he became

He’s canny enough to know that appearing on TV also sells theatre tickets – “well, people like to come to see you when your profile is high, don’t they?”

But he has plainly been offered plenty of high-profile theatre roles and is naturally viewed as a box-office safe bet.

Ask him to name his own favourite roles and he immediately plumps for Tevye in “Fiddler on the Roof” and King Arthur in “Camelot.” “I like playing King Arthur,” he confides. “You know, Lancelot runs off with his wife Guinevere. We always get a few sniffles from the audience at the end, which tells you that it’s working.”

He’s 69 now, with six children and 11 grandchildren, but he’s retained a youthful look and still has that glint in his eye. He appears to refuse to take most things in life seriously. He doesn’t exercise – “that’s not true, really. My house has a basement and three floors so I try to run up the stairs. Well, I run up the first few!”

He doesn’t drink alcohol much, likes a “meat and two veg” kind of diet with no spicy food and is unlikely to die from stress. His mother lived until she was 92, which he takes as a positive sign – “it’s in the genes” - but his workload continues to be quite full-on.

Does he feel like slowing down a bit as he gets older? “Not really,” he says, mildly. “I’m sure that, like most of your readers, we all need to continue doing the things we like, and also doing a variety of things. I think that’s what keeps you healthy.”

Paul in Scrooge mode

He doesn’t feel the need for labourintensive pets these days, “but I have a tortoise called Toby that I’ve had for 20 years who is wonderful,” he states.

“He goes around our walled garden all day and I bring him in at night, if I can find him. He’s perfectly happy – I bought him a little lamp the other day and he loves keeping warm!”

With most information that Paul Nicholas gleefully imparts, you feel you should be taking it with a large pinch of salt. But there is no denying that he has a relaxed philosophy on life that has stood him in very good stead over the years.

He has no real desire to play particular roles, although he particularly enjoyed the recent four-week stint as Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol” at Blackpool Winter Gardens. “Yes, it was an exciting production,” he enthuses. “It’s quite an adult show but it’s got ghosts for the children and families do love this show.

“I like Blackpool,” he adds. “It’s a great place for all ages. It doesn’t pretend to be anything it isn’t and people have a good time.”

And, actually, that general description could be extended to Paul Nicholas himself. He’s a talented actor and singer, not to mention a director and producer, whose life just seems to go from one success to another – all quite by some mysterious quirk of fate.

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Downsizing & Decluttering THERE comes a time for many of us when we look around at our previously much-loved home and decide the time has come to downsize to something smaller.

This may be because your family has left to become independent and the property that once seemed to be bursting at the seams is just too big. It may be that you need to move to more convenient housing because health or financial necessities demand it, or because you would just prefer to look after and maintain a smaller place.

There are more options than ever for retirement living these days and, while property can help fund your care home should you need it, another route is to rent a retirement property.

This is a very popular choice, explained one company, Girlings Retirement Rentals which has around 2,500 properties in more than 600 retirement developments throughout the UK. “It is an easy option for retirement living,” explained Caroline Hull, head of marketing at Girlings.

The company has been in business for 25 years, backed by Norwich Union which is now Aviva. The assured tenancies offer peace of mind, security of tenure and flexibility. Under the assured tenancy the landlord cannot give notice, however, after the initial 12 month's term, the tenant can choose to give notice and leave should they wish to. “This seems to work very well all round and we are getting more and more phone calls reserving properties,” added Caroline. Girlings is also part of the Places

for People Group, which offers tenants even more assurance.

Another popular retirement living choice today is to buy a park home. Lillybrook Parks, for example, offer two stunning park home estates – Lillybrook and Church Park – in the beautiful North Wiltshire countryside, just a five mile drive from Royal Wooton Basset.

The family firm which has run it for more than 50 years, with a history there going back to the early 20th century, has created a sought-after and picturesque development for those aged 50-plus.

Director Philip Burchell explained how they keep the environment at heart, creating above standard eco friendly homes which also mean much reduced running costs all year round.

And, because the parks are residential, they are regulated by the Mobile Homes Act, offering reassurance for residents. There are also plenty of activities and company for individuals – “In fact, it’s a real community here,” adds Philip.

Whatever you do next, you may well be faced with having to sell a property that reflects years of a happy home life. And that can mean a mass of possessions that may not fit into your downsized new home.

20 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Amanda Manson

Orderly Office and Home

In order to sell a property, it needs to be as clear as possible of the life of the previous owner so that a potential-buyer can see where he or she might fit their lifestyle into it.

Decluttering your home takes a particular mind-set and genuine determination. In fact, as professional declutterer Amanda Manson of Orderly Office and Home points out: “The thought of what you’re going to do with everything might fill you with utter dread!”

She recommends a simple plan of action:

START NOW

Beginning decluttering well in advance of putting your property on the market assists in a quick sale and spreads the load over time. “Try 10 minutes a day,” she advises, “little and often. Don’t try a whole room in one go – you’ll end up exhausted and disheartened. Keep in the forefront of your mind your goal of moving into a new home and you’ll be spurred on to continue each day.”

MAKE A LIST

Keep track of where everything is. “If your new home has been agreed, assign a number to each room, and pack your belongings in a box numbered accordingly,” says Amanda. “If your new home hasn’t been decided yet, start grouping like items with like. Pack Winter/ Summer clothing together, pictures and ornaments, books and bedding (always spread books across several boxes – your removal men will thank you!). Remember to label everything.”

REALITY CHECK

Look at what’s in your home and ask yourself “Do I use it, love it or need it?”

If the answer is “no”, is it time to say goodbye? Amanda suggests that clothing you haven’t worn in over a year you might never wear again so out it goes, along with gifts that you’ll never use. Give them to relatives or friends, a local charity, sell them in the local paper or on an auction site or list them online for free collection. Adds Amanda: “Recycle unwanted items where possible, but if unsuitable then it’s a trip to your local rubbish tip or a call to your local council for removal.”

SIZE MATTERS

If you have no garden, garage or guest room in your new home be realistic about whether you’ll use certain items like, for example, a lawnmower if you’re going somewhere with a serviced garden or no garden. Is your furniture too big for your new property? Try to imagine the bare minimum you could manage living with, and take it from there. “Often the additional ‘stuff’ we keep with us becomes an emotional weight around our necks,” states Amanda.

A GIFT TO YOUR CHILDREN

If your loft has been home to items belonging to children like their earliest artwork, toys and other memories, now is the time to give them back. Explain your reasons, keep what you really can’t bear to part with and ask them to collect what’s left, with a deadline.

VISIBLE SPACES

All open surfaces and room space should be as clear as possible ready for estate agents’ photographs. “Buyers can be easily put off by what appears to be a cramped or cluttered space,” observes Amanda.

HIDDEN SPACES

Don’t just wonder if prospective buyers will look inside your cupboards. They will.

If you have fitted wardrobes and sleek kitchen cupboards, buyers will want to know what they can fit into them.

STORE UNTIL YOU MOVE

If you have a move date, this makes deciding what to keep out and what to pack away and what can go much easier.

Without one, you’ll have to get organised.

Box up seasonal items and store them away in a loft, garage or in a storage facility until you move and keep your cupboards, wardrobes and kitchen space for things you use often.

STOP BUYING MORE!

If you’re really set on making the move, start paring down any consumables right now, insists Amanda. “Sort through kitchen cupboards and freezer to see what meals you can make with what you already have.

Discard out of date items, meal plan and make amends to your shopping list so

you’re only buying the item you really need each week. Repeat the process with your bathroom cupboards and toiletries – and avoid the BOGOF temptations as it’s just more stuff to move.”

PAPERWORK AND READING MATERIAL

As the years go by, it’s easy to let papers build up. “Sort through your paperwork piles and discard or shred anything that you really don’t need like outdated bills, manuals for items you don’t now have and old magazines,” says Amanda.

* For more information go to: www.girlings.co.uk www.lillybrook.co.uk www.orderlyofficeandhome.co.uk

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John Torode

The Master Chef

BY A N G E L A K E L LY

IF ever there was a guest to whom you would be distinctly nervous at serving your home-made vegetable lasagne John Torode is probably it.

It’s not that the MasterChef judge and food expert would be automatically rude about your efforts – he’d probably be sparing in his remarks. It’s simply that he would only have to fix you with that so-familiar steely glare for you to realise that there was a chance your food might not pass his strict standards.

All of which is probably both what you would expect from a renowned foodie and from a high-profile cookery guru used to imparting the judgement of Solomon when it comes to individual would-be chefs and their creations.

But, of course, it’s also what helps make TV’s MasterChef and Celebrity MasterChef such compelling viewing. And what has

24 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Doing your own cookbook is a personal catalogue of life, and I’m very lucky to have done it. catapulted the likeable Aussie into the nation’s consciousness as the go-to expert opinion on good and bad dishes.

Born in Melbourne, John Torode’s early interest in cooking led him to work as an apprentice in restaurants around his home city. He began his cooking career formally at the age of 16 by attending catering college, and then – like many young and ambitious Antipodeans before him and since - moved to the UK in 1991.

A year later, he began working at Le Pont de la Tour and Quaglino’s as a sous chef for the Conran Group under Terence Conran. It’s also where he first met fellow MasterChef judge Greg Wallace, whose company supplied the vegetables for the restaurant.

John’s reputation grew swiftly and this, combined with an engaging manner, soon prompted him to become the regular chef on ITV’s This Morning show from 1996 until 2000.

It goes without saying that he’s a big fan of cooking from scratch, but I wondered how important he felt food was in bringing people generally - and the generations in particular together.

“Everyone in the world has to eat,” he stated. “Sitting with friends and family is vital. It is where conversation happens and knowledge is shared. It’s where values and morals are learnt. It’s important, really important.”

And what kinds of culinary expertise can be learned from older people? “With age comes wisdom and with wisdom comes calm,” he said. “The older the cook, the more confident and more knowledgeable they are.

“Just watch an old Chinese chef through the windows in China town and that will teach you more than you would ever think possible.”

John Torode with fans.

His 1998 cookery book The Mezzo Cookbook won the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Food Photography – something he is happy to accept as a highlight of his career so far. “Getting the chance to write a book is a pretty special thing,” he explained, “be it my first one at Mezzo or my latest My Kind of Food. Doing your own cookbook is a personal catalogue of life, and I’m very lucky to have done it.”

In 2000, John opened his first London restaurant, called Smiths of Smithfields. The BBC show MasterChef was being re-launched with an updated format, and Torode and Wallace were chosen as the new presenters. This entertaining combination helped create a winning formula and by 2011, the show had been sold to 25 countries.

Perhaps it was always the unscripted nature of the show, combined with the kitchen banter of Torode and Wallace, but viewers across the world were fascinated by what MasterChef had become. The spin-offs – Celebrity MasterChef and Junior MasterChef – also became hits and John continued his restaurateur success, opening another capital venue called The Luxe, near New Spitalfields Market.

Last year, he fronted John Torode’s Australia – the highest rating TV show of the year on UKTV Good Food Channel - retracing the flavours of his childhood, and this year he presented A Cook Abroad: John Torode’s Argentina for BBC2.

While he is now a familiar face on TV, I asked him how anglicised he had become after so many years living in the UK and what Australian traits he still retained.

“My brothers and Aussie mates think I sound like a pom!” he told me. “But I feel as Aussie as I always have. I love my Australian passport and, of course, the cricket and the rugby – where I will always side with the Aussies!”

As for how influential cookery programmes like MasterChef have been in improving the standard of British cookery, John Torode is very definite. “The more that people watch MasterChef and similar programmes, the more knowledge they have,” he added. “The knock-on effect is that the public become more demanding and worldly wise.

“I think the shows are quite influential. Restaurants and eateries of all kinds have sprung up everywhere in the UK, and the standard has to be high or they do not survive!”

So what makes a MasterChef winner? “Tenacity and real want,” explained John. “Being a good cook is one thing, but wanting to feed people without an ego is a rare thing and something all the MasterChef winners have had.

“They are people without egos, who love to watch people smile because their food is delicious.”

As to what culinary disasters the TV audiences doesn’t see, the famous presenter asserted: “None. You get to see everything – including Gregg’s dancing!”

And who has been your favourite Celebrity MasterChef contestant? “Now that would be a little unfair …. But I do, however, have a soft spot for Lisa Faulkner!”

As for what the future holds for him and whether he would like to appear in any other kind of TV programme, John was happy to elucidate. “To travel the world, discover and cook is what I want to do.

“So take me anywhere and point a camera in my face and I would be as happy as Larry! I have just got back from filming in Malaysia and that was awesome.”

And that tempting morsel of information about what comes next for our culinary hero has only whetted our appetites for future appearances of the man who has helped encourage thousands of would-be cooks in their own kitchens. Even when vegetable lasagne is on the menu.

John’s latest book is My Kind of Food: Recipes I Love To Cook at Home by John Torode, published by Headline priced £25.

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 25

What’s Moscow State Circus - Zhelaniy | 29-31 January

JANUARY The Story of Guitar Heroes

Sunday 17 January 7.30pm Tickets: £20-£22.50 Buxton Adventure Festival presents

Alastair Humphreys & Dean Dunbar Thursday 21 January 7.30pm Tickets: £17.50

Soul Explosion

Thursday 21 January 7.30pm Tickets: £22-£26.50 Ava Hunt Theatre presents

Acting Alone

Friday 22 January 7.30pm Tickets: £16

Broadway and Beyond

Friday 22 January 7.30pm Tickets: £20-£24

Stephen K Amos -The Laughter Master

10-13 February 2016

Terence Rattigan’s

Flare Path

Saturday 23 January 7.30pm Tickets: £19.50 Wednesday 10 to Saturday 13 February 7.30pm Matinee: Thursday & Saturday 2.30pm

From the producers of Birdsong comes Terence Rattigan’s Flare Path, an evocative portrait of life during World War II. Based on Rattigan’s own experiences as a tail gunner in the RAF, the play focuses on the lives of the bomber crews and how their being away impacts their wives and sweethearts.

A former actress, Patricia, is torn between her husband Teddy, an RAF pilot, and her ex-lover, a Hollywood movie star called Peter. When Teddy is sent on an unscheduled night mission over Germany, Patricia finds herself at the centre of an emotional conflict as unpredictable as the war in the skies…

In this major revival the fears and passions of the men and women who fought to save their country are powerfully depicted on stage, with themes as recognisable today as they were when Flare Path was first staged.

‘It is precisely that English emotional hesitancy that makes this play so overwhelmingly moving’ – Guardian Ages 12 & over only.

Joe Brown in Concert

Saturday 23 January 7.30pm Tickets: £27-£29

Tony Jameson - Football Manager Ruined My Life Sunday 24 January 7.30pm Tickets: £16

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

Tuesday 26 January 7.30pm Tickets: £25.50-£30.50

Sarah Millican - Outsider

Wednesday 27 January 8pm Tickets: £28

King of Pop -The Legend Continues Thursday 28 January 7.30pm Tickets: £16-£20

Moscow State Circus - Zhelaniy

Friday 29 to Sunday 31 January Tickets: £15-£28

Tickets for Terence Rattigan’s Flare Path are £23-£28 and discounts are available for senior citizens. To book, call our Box Office on 01298 72190 or buy online at www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk To book call the Box Office on 01298 72190 26 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 26

On...

AnDa Union | 10 February

FEBRUARY Vieux FarkaToure

Tuesday 2 February 7.30pm Tickets: £16.50

Cilla and the Shades of the 60s Tuesday 2 February 7.30pm Tickets: £17.50-£19

Miss Nightingale -The Musical | 17-20 February The Original Theatre Company and Flare Path Productions present

Flare Path

Wednesday 10 to Saturday 13 February 7.30pm (Matinee: Thursday & Saturday 2.30pm) Tickets: £14-£28

An Evening with Gretchen Peters

Tarantara Productions presents

Saturday 13 February 7.30pm Tickets: £24.50

Wednesday 3 February 7.30pm Saturday 6 February 2.30pm & 7.30pm Tickets: £14-£32

That’ll BeThe Day

Fay Hield and the Hurricane Party

Northern Ballet presents

Tarantara Productions presents

Monday 15 February 2pm, 4pm & 6pm Tickets: Adults £8, Children £6

HMS Pinafore in Concert

Thursday 4 February 7.30pm Tickets: £16

Iolanthe in Concert

Thursday 4 & Friday 5 February 7.30pm Tickets: £14-£32 Nunkie Productions presents

Casting the Runes

Friday 5 February 7.30pm Tickets: £12

Dr John Cooper Clarke

Saturday 6 January 7.30pm Tickets: £22

Brian Conley - Alive and Dangerous Sunday 7 February 8pm Tickets: £22.50-£25.50

Russian State Opera presents

Madam Butterfly

Monday 8 February 7.30pm Tickets: £20-£36

Jack Jones

Tuesday 9 February 7.30pm Tickets: £30.50

AnDa Union

Wednesday 10 February 7.30pm Tickets: £17.50

Sunday 14 February 7.30pm Tickets: £23-£28

Agatha Christie's A Murder is Announced | 1-5 March Buxton Adventure Festival presents

Catherine Destivelle

Wednesday 24 February 7.30pm Tickets: £17.50

Tom Stade -You're Welcome

Thursday 25 February 7.30pm Tickets: £15-£17

The ElvisYears

Friday 26 February 7.30pm Tickets: £20-£25

Stewart Francis – Pun Gent

Saturday 27 February 8pm Tickets: £21

TheTortoise & the Hare

An Evening of Dirty Dancing –TheTribute Show

Gilbert O'Sullivan in Concert

MARCH

Tuesday 16 February 7.30pm Tickets: £28-£33

Miss Nightingale -The Musical

Sunday 28 February 7.30pm Tickets: £18-£22.50

Middle Ground Theatre Company presents

Agatha Christie's A Murder Is Announced

Wednesday 17 February to Saturday 20 February 7.30pm (Matinee: Thursday & Saturday 2.30pm) Tickets: £23-£25

Tuesday 1 March to Saturday 5 March 7.30pm (Matinee: Thursday & Saturday 2.30pm) Tickets: £14-£26

McGoldrick,McCusker and Doyle

Gargantua

Friday 19 February 7.30pm Tickets: £17.50

Adam Hills - Clown Heart

Sunday 21 February 8pm Tickets: £21-£24

The Circus of Horrors - Welcome to the CarnEvil Monday 22 February 7.30pm Tickets: £18-£26

Turin Brakes

Monday 22 February 7.30pm Tickets: £22

La Voce

Tuesday 23 February 7.30pm Tickets: £22-£25

Buxton Opera House Young Company presents Thursday 3 to Saturday 5 March 7.30pm (Matinee: Saturday 2.30pm) Tickets: £10-£12

Breabach

Sunday 6 March 7.30pm Tickets: £17.50 Bill Kenwright presents

Willy Russell's Blood Brothers

Monday 7 to Saturday 12 March 7.30pm (Matinee: Thursday & Saturday 2.30pm) Tickets: £15-£38

An Evening with Hazel O'Connor Wednesday 9 March 7.30pm Tickets: £20

Actors of Dionysus presents

Lysistrata

Wednesday 24 February 7.30pm Tickets: £10-£15

Or book online at www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK | 27 www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

27

Cook with John Torode!

Delicious recipes from his new book - My Kind Of Food GLAMORGAN SAUSAGES My search for a great vegetarian sausage recipe took me far and wide, from Australia to Asia to Ireland, with Europe in between. I finally stumbled across these little beauties closer to home – in Wales. They’re simply made with some cheese, breadcrumbs and a couple of eggs and they are grand. To my mind, they taste a bit like the stuffing you get from a good chicken. They are moreish, so beware.

Feeds 4 175g Caerphilly cheese or Cheshire cheese, grated 225g fresh breadcrumbs 1 banana shallot, grated 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley 1 tablespoon chopped chives 1 egg, beaten 20ml milk 1 teaspoon hot English mustard plain flour, for dusting 300ml vegetable oil, for frying salt and freshly ground black pepper jar of apple sauce or apple chutney, to serve

rode John To

For the coating 1 egg, beaten 50ml milk 50g plain flour 1 teaspoon paprika Prep the sausage mixture In a large bowl, mix the cheese, breadcrumbs, shallot and herbs and season with salt and pepper.

In a jug, beat together the egg, milk and mustard. Pour the egg mixture over the cheesy breadcrumbs and mash together until you get a dough.

28 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

On a lightly floured worktop, roll out the mix into long sausages roughly 2cm thick and then cut the sausages into 8cm lengths – you should get about eight.

Coat them

Beat the egg and milk together in a shallow dish. Spread out the flour in another dish and season with the paprika.

Roll the sausages in the egg mixture and then in the seasoned flour. Leave on a tray in the fridge for 10 minutes to set.

Cook the sausages

Heat the oil in a heavy-based frying pan and gently fry the sausages over a medium heat for about 4–5 minutes, turning, until brown all over. Drain well on kitchen paper. Serve with apple sauce or apple chutney.

For a non-vego version

Add bits of crisp bacon, flaked smoked haddock or shredded ham and chopped-up peas to the sausage mixture and then coat and cook as above.

FOOD & DRINK

the

Strines Inn

PURPLE SPROUTING BROCCOLI, LINGUINE, CHILLI AND PINE NUTS This is one of my quick, quick, the kids are starving (so am I) recipes. The amount of chilli you use is up to you; I serve some on the side for those who like it. Chopped sausages are a good addition: push the sausages out of their skins and cook them with the chilli and onions for a more blokey type of feast.

Feeds 4–6 50ml olive oil, plus extra for the pasta water 500g linguine 1 red onion, sliced 4 garlic cloves, sliced 2 long red chillies, split in half, de-seeded and sliced (optional) 300g purple sprouting broccoli, boiled for 2 minutes 20g pine nuts salt and freshly ground black pepper a big hunk of Parmesan, to serve Bring a really large pan of water (about 5 litres) to the boil with 2 teaspoons of olive oil and add the pasta. Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions.

Meanwhile, heat the remaining oil in a frying pan over a low– medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cook gently and slowly for a few minutes until they are soft; keep the temperature low.

Season the onions well with loads of salt and pepper. Drop in the chilli (if using), and cook for a minute or so. Now drop in the cooked broccoli, give it a good stir and cook for a couple of minutes so that the broccoli gets hot. Add the pine nuts.

Drain the pasta and pour it into the pan with the onion and broccoli.

Turn up the heat and toss everything together.

Spoon onto plates or pile into a large heated bowl, and make sure there is loads of Parmesan to grate over the top.

Or try...

For grown-ups you can add a few anchovies.

Use different varieties of broccoli or Romanesco cauliflower, or even add some bitter leaves, like radicchio.

D

espite being within Sheffield's border, the Strines Inn could be a world away. Nestled amongst breathtaking moorland scenery, it is one of the local landmarks in the Peak District National Park.

Originally a manor house, it was built in 1275 for the Worrall family, although most of the present day structure is 16th Century. After becoming an Inn in 1771 when John Morton leased the property from the Worrall's, it got its name from an Olde English word meaning the meeting of water, quite appropriate as nowadays it overlooks the Strines Reservoir.

In the height of Summer the Inn attracts hundreds of visitors on a daily basis. The glorious sunshine and stunning views perfectly compliment the excellent food and drink available, with many dishes being homemade.

The Strines Inn is also famous for its numerous peacocks, the previous Landlord having introduced several pairs twenty years ago, there are now over thirty of them.

There is also accommodation available for those people looking to escape for a few days to relax. All rooms have Four poster beds and En-Suite facilities.

THE STRINES INN BRADFIELD DALE, SHEFFIELD S6 6JE

TEL: 0114 285 1247 WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 29

FOOD & DRINK

TOMATO AND PESTO TARTS I have always been a sucker for anything cooked in, or with, puff pastry. These deep tarts are topped with the concentrated flavour of sweet tomatoes and the kick of a punchy pesto. Serve with peppery watercress. If you like, just make smaller individual ones as snacks for your hungry hordes.

Makes 4 tarts* * 1 each as a starter

500g block puff pastry (all-butter, if possible) plain flour, for dusting 1 egg, beaten 2 tablespoons pesto (see page 160 for home-made, or just use a jar) 8 plum tomatoes, sliced salt and freshly ground black pepper To serve 100g watercress 10ml peppery olive oil

Prep the pastry Heat the oven to 220°C/gas 7. Line a baking sheet with baking paper.

On a lightly floured worktop, roll the puff pastry out until it is about 2cm thick.

You will need to cut four circular discs from the pastry so you need to find a small plate or saucer that’s about 16cm in diameter to use as a template. Place the plate over the pastry and run a sharp knife around the edge to cut out the first disc. Repeat until you have four.

Now you need to lightly score a margin about 1.5–2cm in from the edge of the pastry discs, so find a smaller plate or bowl that you can use as a template.

Place the smaller plate in the centre of each pastry disc and lightly run a sharp knife around the edge, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Lift the disks onto the baking sheet and brush with the beaten egg. With a fork, prick the inner circle but not the outer edge – this will stop the pastry from rising in the middle but will allow the outer edge of the tart to rise up.

Build the tarts Take a good amount of the pesto and spread it over the inner circle of each tart. Place the tops and bottoms of the tomatoes in the centre of the tarts, then start to lay the slices on top of the pesto so they overlap and create a swirl effect – it should look a bit like a Catherine wheel. Season with salt and pepper.

Place the tarts in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until well risen and coloured. Mix the watercress with the olive oil and serve with the tarts.

Tip

Cut out pastry discs, stack them between layers of cling film and keep them in the freezer – ready in case of an emergency!

Just take them out of the freezer 10 minutes before you want to cook them, then make the tarts and bake as above.

Find these recipes and more in John’s latest book is My Kind of Food: Recipes I Love To Cook at Home by John Torode, published by Headline priced £25.

FOR MORE FOODIE ARTICLES VISIT WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 30 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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The Health & Beauty Studio

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We feature body massages, facials,

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Our services also include make-up lessons, tinting and waxing, hot stone therapy, bronzing and wedding makeup.

From the moment you enter the studio, you are greeted into a welcoming, friendly and serene atmosphere. Aromatic candles and enchanting music presents a tranquil and relaxing ambience for our clients to totally unwind.

Enjoy the first class service provided by our experienced beauty therapists. We use 98-100%

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"JOHNNIE" JOHNSON HOUSING TRUST LIMITED IS A REGISTERED SOCIETY (HCA L1231) UNDER THE CO-OPERATIVE AND COMMUNITY BENEFIT SOCIETIES ACT 2014 AND AN EXEMPT CHARITY (FCA 19198R). VAT REGISTRATION NO. 570 7182 38. HEAD OFFICE, SPINNERS LANE, ASTRA HOUSE, POYNTON, SK12 1GA

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Markeaton Park I can, YOU can Let Derby City Council leisure facilities inspire YOU this New Year to be active and stay well. Our qualified gym instructors are here to discover your personal fitness goals and provide a programme that is tailored made for you, they will also provide regular fitness reviews to help you keep on track.

Choose from over 100 group exercise classes, swimming or the gym. Your one membership allows you access to all our facilities across the city including Springwood Leisure Centre, Queen’s Leisure Centre, Moorways Swimming Pool and the NEW Derby Arena.

We understand that you need a membership that will meet your fitness needs, so our memberships let you take control and choose the package you want. Choose from a gym, group exercise or swim membership, combine two types, or choose all three. There is no joining fee or fixed contract, concessionary memberships start from £22.50 a month.

Markeaton Park is a great place to visit, enjoy the outdoors and meet friends. You can be active and take part in leisure activities, relax in one of the quieter areas, feed the ducks or discover the park’s wildlife. There’s a lot to see and do. Why not explore the park and discover its historic gardens and 18th century parkland? Visit the ever-popular Mundy Play Centre and enjoy the many activities on offer, or for something quieter, call into the craft village and have a drink and a bite to eat at the listed Orangery café.

The park has seen major changes and improvements in the past year including new pathways, improved signage, new children’s play area and a fantastic transformation of the Craft Village and Orangery. Alongside the improvements to the park, we will be delivering a wide range of events and community activities in 2016, to allow more people to get involved in the park and increase their understanding of the park’s heritage.

To find out more about our events and what’s happening in Markeaton Park visit derby.gov.uk/markeaton

As the New Year starts, whether you want to lose weight, improve your fitness levels for health reasons, meet new friends or train for a marathon, Derby City Council Leisure facilities are here to help.

To find out more call 01332 255 800 or visit derby.gov.uk/join.

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| 33

PROTECTING YOUR HEART’S HEALTH Dr Jaydeep Sarma, MA MB BChir (Cantab) PhD (Edin) FRCP (Lon) Consultant Interventional Cardiologist

It’s never too late to improve your lifestyle and protect your heart, or if you’re already suffering from heart disease, there are steps you can take to prevent it from getting worse.

Everyone knows someone, whether it’s friends or family, with a heart problem.

Heart disease is a major cause of ill health, especially coronary heart disease which remains the biggest single killer in the UK. Coronary heart disease is caused when the heart’s blood vessels, the coronary arteries, become narrowed or blocked and cannot supply enough blood to the heart. This can cause a heart attack, angina or heart failure.

The good news is that there are things that we can do to reduce our risk of coronary heart disease. Amazingly, in the UK, the death rates from coronary heart disease have more than halved since the 1960s. Studies have shown that developments in treatment play an important role in this fall, but interestingly half of the reduction is attributed to changes in risk factors.

A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease.

There are several risk factors for heart disease. The main ones are: n Smoking n High blood pressure n High blood cholesterol n Physical inactivity n Being overweight n Having diabetes The more risk factors you have, the more likely you are to develop heart disease.

HOW CAN I REDUCE MY RISK OF HEART DISEASE? There is plenty we can do to reduce the risk of disease and protect our hearts. You can find out about your future risk of

CARDIOLOGY

EVERY HEARTBEAT MATTERS developing heart disease by having a health check. If you live in England and are aged 40-74 (and have not already been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, diabetes or dementia) you should be invited for a free health check at your local GP surgery.

The British Heart Foundation offers excellent advice on preventing heart disease including a helpline, booklets, an online tool to assess your “heart age” and other resources. (See www.bhf.org.uk/ heart-health/preventing-heart-disease) If you’re a smoker, stopping smoking is the single most important thing you can do to improve your heart health. There is lots of support to help people quit, including free counselling and Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT).

High blood pressure can respond to diet and lifestyle changes including weight loss, a reduction in alcohol intake, and avoiding added salt in food. Cholesterol levels also may be controlled by diet changes, and physical exercise can help keep cholesterol low. There are also a number of medications that can treat high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol.

If you haven’t exercised for a long time, or if you have significant medical problems, it is always wise to discuss matters with your doctor before starting any exercise programme.

Similarly if you are significantly overweight, it is worth getting expert advice from a doctor and/or a dietician, to plan the safest way for you to lose weight and improve your heart health.

As we get older, especially if we are over weight or not physically active, we are at risk of developing diabetes. If you think you may be at risk it is worth discussing it with a doctor.

If you don’t have diabetes, you can help reduce your risk of developing it by controlling your risk factors for cardiovascular disease. However if you do have diabetes, it’s important to make sure you control your blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol. This will help keep your risk of cardiovascular disease as low as possible.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN CARDIOLOGY Not long ago, cardiac treatments were confined to a few tablets, or open-heart surgery. Now we have a wide range of medications and new ‘keyhole’ technologies, undertaken through a tiny nick in the skin. Keyhole technologies can treat narrowed arteries, heart valve disease and holes in the heart. Patients can sit up soon after their procedure, eat a meal and usually go home later on the same day.

If you are concerned about possible heart problems, you can discuss this with your GP who can refer you to a Cardiologist.

Serious about health.

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CARDIOLOGY

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| 35

We believe that moving into care should be a change of life, not life changing

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| 37

The Family Funeral Service www.lymn.co.uk Rolls-Royce motor innovation brought back to Derby

The new hearse is constructed on the current Rolls-Royce Phantom chassis, to a bespoke design, by Italian company Biemme Special Cars. This distinctive contemporary design, complementing the traditional British Rolls-Royce style.

The entire fleet consists of a 1936 25/30 Hearse, a 1928 Phantom II Hooper limousine, a hearse and three Phantom VI MPW limousines, Silver Spirit and Bentley Brooklands hearses and and limousines in addition to the current Phantom fleet.

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| 39

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