Oldham, Rochdale & Tameside 45 by 50 Plus Magazine

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DECEMBER - FEBRUARY 2015

OLDHAM, ROCHDALE & TAMESIDE EDITION 45

Torvill & Dean

Our Life On Ice...

Hairy Bikers

Healthy Low Calorie Recipes

Waters Edge Dental Care Same Day Smiles

Financial advice from A new life starts here! THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s

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Yo u r L o c a l S p e c i a l i s t S o l i c i t o r s

0161 368 3434 0161 494 6085

Chronnell Hibbert is a well-established practice providing legal services to individuals, families and small businesses from its offices in Hyde and Woodley, local to Denton.

Divorce & Family Law

Conveyancing

Wills & Probate

At Chronnell Hibbert, our dedicated family department consists of a team of understanding and sympathetic solicitors who are highly qualified in all aspects of family law and specialise in divorce.

We at Chronnell Hibbert understand that buying or moving home is a big investment. Oftentimes the process is stressful and time-consuming. Our property conveyancing solicitors are here to help. We are committed to providing all the support and legal advice you need.

We give specialist advice to the elderly in planning their affairs including Powers of Attorney and minimising their exposure to the local authority taking their assets if they have to go into an elderly persons home. Early advice is recommended in these situations which need to be planned for some time ahead.

Whether you need to resolve financial disputes or have issues regarding childcare or domestic violence, we can be of assistance.

For further information please call Anna Perry or David Williams on 0161 368 3434 or email anna.perry@hydesolicitors.co.uk or david.williams@hydesolicitors.co.uk We also cover other areas of law, to find out more visit www.chronnells-denton.co.uk

CONTENTS

INSIDE...

6-7

8-9

12-13

18-19

6-7

Robinsons Holidays... Affordable peace of mind.

8-9

Rambling Holidays ... Time to tread a new path?

12-13

Torvill & Dean ... ‘Our Life On Ice’

18-19

Top Tips For A Beautiful Home... this Christmas!

22-23

The Hairy Dieters... ‘Eat For Life’ recipes.

25-28

Out and About ... Places to visit and things to do.

30-31

The Hairy Dieters ... ‘Eat For Life’ recipes.

6th Floor | 120 Bark Street | Bolton | BL1 2AX T: (01204) 860 194 | F: (01204) 860 213 e: mcgrathadmin@btconnect.com

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TWITTERING ON

Cooartin’ bother For those unfamiliar with the vagaries of Lancashire dialect the headline means “courting trouble”. I am probably doing just that by venturing into commenting on how we treat our language and regional accents but it does get on my wick. Social media, especially Twitter, has a lot to answer for and there has to be a distinct possibility that in 20 years’ time today’s younger generation will have completely lost the power of speech and communicate through fingers, thumbs and a series of guttural grunts. Even my wife has taken to e-mailing me her weekly schedule and I’ve occasionally been in the same room when she’s sent it! Kids text and e-mail instructions to parents in the same house. The once treasured English language and its many dialects and accents is in its death throes! I have a few major gripes and the incorrect use of the possessive apostrophe (that’s a comma) has to be the main one. A sign outside a café in my village proudly announces that they sell tea’s, coffee’s, hot meal’s, sandwiche’s, cake’s and soft drink’s ! What’s that all about?

Graham Smith

Fancy a quick one? An Australian man has been charged by police after parking a plane outside a pub while he went inside for a beer. The 37-year-old had just bought the wingless Beechcraft two-seater and was on his way home when he decided to stop for a drink. He taxied the light aircraft down the main street in Newman, Western Australia, and then parked it outside the Newman Hotel, leaving the engine running. Police said he passed a breathalyser test, but was charged with endangering the life, health and safety of residents because the propeller was still spinning. Local residents were amused to see the sight of a plane parked outside the wellknown local hostelry.

Some educationally challenged airhead suggested recently that it doesn’t matter about spelling any more. Oh, right, let’s scrap English from the school curriculum and replace it with a Diploma in Social Media shall we? Standards aren’t just falling they’re plummeting faster than a text book launched from an upstairs window.

A bar tender at the Newman Hotel said the man was a “local character” who entertained pub patrons by “playing dumb” when questioned by police. But Newman police sergeant Mark McKenzie said: “Kids were coming home from school. It could have been very ugly. “People think it was a bit of a laugh but it was very dangerous and we’re not very happy with it.”

Now, to dialect. I met someone recently who has often reminded me of the wonderful Lancashire phrases we must never lose.

Enough to make you cough!

“I haven’t christened tea yet,” “He’s ett’n miggle eawt un left or’t theawtsides. He has eaten the middle out and left all the outsides.

A Polish coffin company has again angered the Catholic Church by using naked models to promote its caskets. Lindner has just released its 2015 calendar, entitled Male-Female Relations, featuring a dozen raunchy black and white images.

Mi yeds aw muggl’t up. My head is in a muddle. Am beawn’t bey a new moggle. I am going to buy a new model. Hers figglin’t books. She is fiddling the books. Wonderful stuff. This should be taught in schools as mandatory. I spent some time back in Lancashire recently and noticed the kids of today are more Neighbours than Nelson. Keep these great sayings alive….nuff said. 4

Its creators say it is intended to show the strength, energy and elegance of women, and of course to sell coffins at the same time.

March has a naked woman tied to the top of a coffin with a ribbon being held by a man’s hand. The calendar is the latest in a series of similar campaigns by the company which have been criticised as “inappropriate” by the Catholic Church in Poland. A church spokesman has said that human death should be treated with solemnity and not mixed up with sex. But company owner Zbigniew Lindner said: “We wanted to show that a coffin shouldn’t be a sacred object - it’s furniture, it’s the last bed you’ll ever sleep in. “It isn’t a religious symbol. It’s a product. So much work goes into our coffins that are only seen for a few moments at the funeral. “My son had the idea of creating the company’s calendar so that we could show something half-serious, colourful, beautiful; the beauty of Polish girls and the beauty of our coffins.” Bury me in Poland! They’re obviously as daft as I am.

And finally… At the time of writing this column, Christmas was approaching. Could someone please tell me what the connection is between Christmas and sofas? Why the hell is every TV advert geared towards spending £999.99 on a blasted sofa? Some bimboesque voice over, with a voice like a corn crake, keeps screaming at me that I need a new sofa. Why? And nothing to pay until 2027. Oh, do me a favour love, sit down and shut up.

November’s photo for example shows a naked brunette straddling a coffin, the lid of which is half open with a man’s hands clutching the lid and the side of the coffin.

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Holidays from

£149

Robinsons Own Hotels

2015

Sunny Sussex Eastbourne

The Garden Isle Isle of Wight

Delightful Devon Torquay

Eastbourne is an “all year round” holiday destination with one of the best sunshine records in the UK.

The Isle of Wight offers stunning landscapes, award winning beaches, breath taking seascapes and not forgetting its extensive history.

With its mild climate and trademark Palm Trees, Torquay is one of the UK’s premier seaside resorts and has been fashionable since the 19th Century.

The Ocean View Hotel is an elegant hotel commanding magnificent views across Sandown Bay, the balconies provide the perfect place to enjoy the sunset on summer evenings. Guests can unwind in the piano lounge before enjoying an evening meal in the spacious restaurant. A night porter ensures 24 hour reception service.

The Abbey Lawn Hotel is an elegant Georgian hotel, in the grounds of the former Torre Abbey, with it’s newly refurbished conservatory / lounge offers the discerning holidaymaker an exceptional standard of comfort throughout.

The Imperial Hotel is an impressive Victorian hotel situated at the seaward end of Devonshire Place, an imposing tree-lined boulevard, less than fifteen minutes walk from the facilities and amenities in the town centre and across the road from the promenade and the bandstand. The hotel offers the guest a good standard of accommodation, spacious lounge areas and a majestic restaurant all in a dignified and tranquil ambience for the discerning holidaymaker. Hotel amenities l All rooms have private facilities, telephone, television and complimentary tea/coffee and hairdryers l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Table d’hote evening meal with choice of menu, plus tea or coffee l Live entertainment most evenings l Lift serving all floors l Porterage.

Hotel amenities l All rooms have private facilities, telephone, television and complimentary tea/coffee and hairdryers l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Table d’hote evening meal with choice of menu, plus tea or coffee l Live entertainment most evenings l Indoor heated pool l Indoor bowling green, table tennis and snooker room l Lift serving all floors l Porterage.

Freephone: 0800 083 9900

Many of the bedrooms offer panoramic views of the bay. Hotel amenities l All rooms have private facilities, telephone, television and complimentary tea/coffee and hairdryers l Traditional English breakfast l Lunch snacks available daily l Table d’hote evening meal with choice of menu, plus tea or coffee l Live entertainment most evenings l Indoor and seasonal outdoor pool l Lift serving all floors l Porterage

Groups: 0800 785 1025

The Robinsons Difference

Great choice of menus l Executive coaches with extra legroom l Includes excursions l Friendly staff l

Local joining points No single supplements* l High standard of accommodation l l

5 Day Tours

7 Day Tours

8 Day Tours

4 Nts dinner, bed & breakfast

6 Nts dinner, bed & breakfast

7 Nts dinner, bed & breakfast

Date 15 Feb 22 Feb 02 Mar 09 Mar 16 Mar 23 Mar 29 Mar 03 Apr 08 Apr 13 Apr 20 Apr 26 Apr 04 May 11 May 18 May 25 May 15 June 13 July 17 Aug 14 Sept 05 Oct 12 Oct 19 Oct 26 Oct

Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn £149 £149 £149 £149 £149 £149 £159 £159 £159 £169 £169 £169 £179 £179 £179 £189 £189 £189 £199 £199 £199 £199 £199 £199 £209 £209 £209 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219 £229 £229 £229 £229 £229 £229 £239 £239 £239 £249 £249 £249 £269 £269 £269 £269 £269 £269 £259 £259 £229 £229 £229 £229 £229 £229 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219 £219

Supplements per person 7 Days: Imperial: Premier Room £20 Ocean View: Premier Room £30 -Sea View Room £10 Abbey Lawn: Premier Room £30 - Front Facing Room £10

We offer you ... 4 4 4 4

Own hotels in great locations Peace of mind security l Payment in instalments * Robinsons own hotels l

4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast 2 included excursions Free pick-ups Service of driver/courier

Loyalty Bonus Here at Robinsons, we are committed to ensuring that our customers are rewarded for their loyalty to us. For 2015, we are pleased to offer all our passengers the opportunity to take advantage. A voucher will be given to all passengers by the tour driver whilst on holiday. This can either be redeemed on the next holiday booking, or can be saved in multiples towards a future holiday.

Date 30 Mar 05 Apr 12 Apr 19 Apr 26 Apr 03 May 10 May 17 May 24 May 31 May 07 June 14 June 21 June 28 June 05 July 12 July 19 July 26 July 02 Aug 09 Aug 16 Aug 23 Aug 30 Aug 06 Sept 13 Sept 20 Sept 27 Sept

Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn £249* £249* £249* £249 £249 £249 £259 £259 £259 £269 £269 £269 £279 £279 £279 £319 £319 £319 £339 £339 £339 £349 £349 £349 £359 £359 £359 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £379 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £369 £359 £359 £359 £329 £329 £329

* Monday departure Supplements per person 7 Days: Imperial: Premier Room £30 Ocean View: Premier Room £45 -Sea View Room £13 Abbey Lawn: Premier Room £40 - Front Facing Room £13

We offer you ... 4 4 4 4

6 nights dinner, bed & breakfast 2 included excursions Free pick-ups Service of driver/courier

Date Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn 02/03 May £369 £369 £369 09/10 May £369 £369 £369 16/17 May £379 £379 £379 23/24 May £389 £389 £389 30/31 May £399 £399 £399 06/07 June £399 £399 £399 13/14 June £399 £399 £399 20/21 June £409 £409 £409 27/28 June £409 £409 £409 04/05 July £409 £409 £409 11/12 July £409 £409 £409 18/19 July £409 £409 £409 25/26 July £409 £409 £409 01/02 Aug £409 £409 £409 08/09 Aug £409 £409 £409 15/16 Aug £409 £409 £409 22/23 Aug £409 £409 £409 29/30 Aug £409 £409 £409 05/06 Sept £399 £399 £399 12/13 Sept £399 £399 £399 19/20 Sept £389 £389 £389 26/27 Sept £359 £359 £359 Supplements per person 8 Days: Imperial: Premier Room £35 Ocean View: Premier Room £50 -Sea View Room £15 Abbey Lawn: Premier Room £50 - Front Facing Room £15

9 Day Tours 8 Nts dinner, bed & breakfast Date 02 May 09 May 16 May 23 May 30 May 06 June 13 June 20 June 27 June 04 July 11 July 18 July 25 July 01 Aug 08 Aug 15 Aug 22 Aug 29 Aug 05 Sept 12 Sept 19 Sept 26 Sept

Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn £399 £399 £399 £399 £399 £399 £409 £409 £409 £419 £419 £419 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £439 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £429 £419 £419 £419 £389 £389 £389

9 DAYS ~ ONLY STANDARD ROOMS AVAILABLE

We offer you ...

4 7 nights dinner, bed & breakfast - 8 Days 4 8 nights dinner, bed & breakfast - 9 Days 4 2 included excursions 4 Free pick-ups 4 Service of driver/courier

Visit us online at www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk and book a great deal today!

Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP.

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Care Act to Deliver the Biggest Reforms in 60 Years Changes to the way the care system is run came into effect on 1st October and, while they won’t start to be enforced until April next year, they will have huge implications for anyone needing or providing care in Britain.

By Louise Rance

For the first time, the Care Act 2014, which represents the most significant reforms in more than 60 years, will limit the amount anyone will have to pay towards the cost of their care and put them in control of their care and support.

“Care is a basic entitlement and something the vast majority of people are likely to experience at some point in their lives, whether receiving it or providing it”, said Louise Rance of Russell and Russell Solicitors. “Our population is growing and we’re living longer so more of us will need care in the future. This Act aims to transform the current means tested system so that more people get better access to care as well as better all-round care.”

Existing legislation has never been comprehensively reviewed. Instead, it has been added to at intervals over the last 70 years, making it extremely confusing not only for those in need of care, but for those who manage it too. The new Care Act aims to be a single, modern law that clearly sets out the kind of care people should expect. But it is not just about making the process more transparent and easier to understand, it is about fundamentally changing the way local authorities deal with caring for people. The essence of this Act is to ensure wellbeing and quality of life.

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PFPA10301_Mike Atkinson_03_14_PFPA10301_Mike Atkinson_03_14 24/03/2014 16:44

Historically, councils have focused on what disabilities a person has or what services can be provided. Now, local authorities will have a duty to take into consideration the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of the individual so that support is built around their needs and wants and how they can be best cared for. Councils will also be required to provide preventative services to maintain people’s health. From a financial perspective, under the new rules a minimum eligibility threshold will apply across the country. Until now, local authorities have been able to apply their own thresholds, resulting in varying levels of entitlement depending on where people live. “One of the biggest concerns people have is how they’ll pay for their care”, continues Louise. “Some have faced losing almost everything they’ve worked for, while others have had to sell their home in order to get the care they need.” The new regulations will introduce a cap of £72,000 that people will have to contribute towards their care. Once this is reached, the state will pay for the cost of care. In addition, the means testing level has been increased in order for government help to kick in earlier. All councils will also have to offer a deferred payment scheme so that people are not forced into selling their home in their lifetime to pay for residential care. Louise, however, argues that more needs to be done: “Although the Act provides greater clarity for people in respect of their right to defer payments, in reality the cap is a false sense of security. Many people wouldn’t live in care homes long enough to reach the financial threshold, so the price of paying for their care would still eat into most of their savings or absorb a significant proportion of the value of their home.” In light of the findings of the Mid Staffordshire Hospital scandal, access to information will play a bigger role in a bid to drive up the quality of care across the board. Provider profiles a description of the care offered - on the NHS Choices website aims to help people compare care homes and services so they can make a more informed choice about their care. They will also have the opportunity to comment about their experience so that the standard of care is open and transparent. The government is also cracking down on those who deliver sub-standard care. Stronger regulatory powers, including prosecution where necessary, will make those responsible for poor care accountable. Louise concludes: “The Act doesn’t just take into account those in need of care; it also gives carers new rights too. Up until now, local authorities have not been obliged to support carers, however, from October they will be entitled to an assessment and if found eligible for support in a particular area, they’ll benefit from the same legal right to receive support as those they care for.” By Louise Rance of Russell & Russell Solicitors

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Financial advice from Prudential Whether you’re thinking about your savings, investment opportunities or perhaps thinking about retirement – we can help. We have a team of Financial Planning advisers in this area who can review your finances and help you plan for a more secure future. We can arrange to meet in the comfort of your own home, or wherever you’d prefer, and you’re under no obligation to take anything we discuss further. Prudential Financial Planning is backed by the financial strength of Prudential, which has been providing financial security for more than 165 years. If you have a financial adviser, please talk to them. If you don't, call me today to book a no-obligation chat.

Call Michael Atkinson DipPFS on 07990 591 916 or email michael.atkinson@prudential.co.uk Prudential Financial Planning advisers are qualified and experienced in financial planning and can advise on a range of products from Prudential. This is known as a restricted advice service.

Top tips for a Beautiful Home at

s a m t Chris

1. The Christmas tree is often the main feature of decorating your home for the festive season, so place it in the room you will use the most. Putting the tree by the window gives a vision of warmth and comfort to you and your visitors before you have even come inside, or putting it next to the fireplace gives a fantastically traditional setting for Christmas morning. 2. Alternatively you could have trees in a number of rooms, which can be decorated to suit their environment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for example an edible selection of treats for the kitchen tree, and a tiny tree or just a decorated branch for the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rooms with wooden trains, soldiers, drums and fairies. 3. If you are using a traditional colour scheme at Christmas of red and green, make one colour more dominant than the other such as lots of red with a splash of green as this will be more pleasing on the eye.

4. Alternatively, a theme focusing on metallics could incorporate browns, oranges and golds, as well as amber and bronze to bring warmth to your decor. Find branches of mottled oak leaves and create a display or a wreath using small bronze beads or gold acrylic drops. 5. Glass can bring a stunning ice effect to your decorations. Choose a glass sculpture for the entranceway, or place baubles in decorative glass bowls for the table. 6. A Jack Frost theme of white, silver and aqua will bring about a wintery charm. Choose a white berry garland that will add sparkle, or icicle lights for the tree. Crystals and clear baubles in floral decorations will glisten nicely - try them with a combination of white ranunculus, tulips and hyacinths for a stunning scent. 7. A more decadent look can be achieved using heavier materials such as velvet. Mix rich red, purple and blues together for a sumptuous style. www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

A purple feather wreath would welcome the theme warmly and velvet Christmas sacks and velvet skirts for under the tree will look gorgeously effective. 8. Bringing the outside in is a fundamental part of Christmas decorating, and alongside the tree, holly and ivy look fabulous with traditional amaryllis and roses. Try creating a spray of lush green over a painting or on a mantle piece, or use a berry-covered branch to display your Christmas cards. 9. Christmas wreaths also come in all shapes, textures and colours now, as well as the traditional green. Rings of bells will make a musical front door, or a feather version in unexpected hues such as aubergine, or even lime, will make an original statement. Twig wreaths for the minimalist can be enhanced with sticks of cinnamon, and a ring of eucalyptus or tiny fresh flowers would make a wonderfully scented arrangement.

10. Lighting is key at this time of year, and a beautifully lit house is a welcoming sight at the end of the working day. Fibre optic displays will bounce light around in windows and rope lights look glorious under the tree. For high ceilings, a chandelier will bring the ultimate decadence to your home. 11. Candles come into their own at Christmas and a show of differing types and sizes look wonderful when combined with interesting vases. Candles also glow beautifully through cutwork metal and ceramic. 12. Outdoor lighting can also have a transformative effect on your home. A well-chosen lantern for the porch will provide a festively warm welcome, or contemporary wall lights that pick out feature stone or house numbers add to the outdoor décor. If you are have them then pick out niches, columns or other architectural features to celebrate the façade of your home, or decorate a choice shrub or tree instead to highlight your good taste.

By Niki Schäfer, MD of Dwell-Being www.dwell-being.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK THE HAIRY DIETERS EAT FOR LIFE "We've cooked the recipes in our first book over and over, and they've become much loved standards in our kitchens, along with our other favourite dishes. We enjoy them so much that, like you, we wanted, more so now we've come up with some new ones that we hope you're going to like just as much."

CHICKEN TAGINE WITH PRESERVED LEMONS 391 calories per portion (if serving 4); 313 calories per portion (if serving 5) Saffron, chilli, preserved lemons, coriander - our version of this North African stew is a winner. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fragrant, filling and fabulous, so enjoy. You can buy jars of preserved lemons in large supermarkets. METHOD Put the saffron in a measuring jug with the stock cube and pour over the 250ml of just-boiled water. Stir until the stock cube dissolves and set aside. Put the chicken thighs on a board and trim off all the visible fat, then season the chicken with salt and pepper. Slice the preserved lemons into very thin strips, flicking out any pips as you go. Heat the oil in a large non-stick saucepan. Add the onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika and chilli flakes. Season with lots of black pepper and cook for 2 minutes, while stirring. Add the 2 tablespoons of cold water and steam-fry for another 3 minutes, stirring regularly until the onions are lightly browned. Add the chicken and preserved lemons to the saucepan and cook over a medium heat for 5 minutes, turning the chicken until itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lightly coloured on all sides. Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into rough wedge shapes or chucks of about 4cm. Roughly chop the tomatoes and cut the pitted olives in half. Put the potatoes, tomatoes and olives in a large bowl and toss with the herbs and plenty of salt and pepper. Scatter the vegetable mix over the chicken, pour over the saffron stock and cover the pan tightly with a lid. Simmer over a very low heat for 35-40 minutes, without removing the lid, until the chicken and potatoes are tender.

Serves 4-5 Prep: 15 minutes Cooking time: 45-55 minutes pinch of saffron threads 1 chicken stock cube 250ml just-boiled water 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs 2 preserved lemons (size of a walnut in its shell), rinsed 1 tbsp olive oil 2 medium onions, sliced 3 garlic cloves, finely sliced

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1 tsp ground ginger 2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp dried chilli flakes 2 tbsp cold water 600g medium potatoes, preferably Maris Pipers 3 large ripe tomatoes 50g pitted green olives in brine, drained 20g bunch of fresh coriander, leaves roughly chopped 20g bucn of fresh parsley, leaves roughly chopped flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper. 21

FOOD & DRINK

SAUSAGES AND RICH ONION GRAVY 242 calories per portion Thank goodness, we can still have a dash of the bangers and mash our mothers used to make. If you choose lean sausages with the minimum of fat, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t include this tasty dish on your menu and still drop the pounds. Look for sausages containing about 100 calories each and make sure they’re good quality for the best taste. METHOD Brush a large non-stick frying pan or sauté pan with the sunflower oil and fry the sausages over a medium heat for 5 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown all over. Add the onions to the pan, turn down the heat slightly and fry for 8-10 minutes or until the sausages are cooked and the onions are softened and golden brown, stirring regularly. Pour the stock into the pan, add the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Mix the cornflour with the cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the pan with the sausages and return to a simmer, then cook for 1-2 minutes more until the sauce is thickened, stirring. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve with our lower-cal colcannon.

LOWER-CAL COLCANNON

Serves 4 Prep: 10 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes 1/2 tsp sunflower oil

8 lean pork sausages 1 1/2 medium onions, thinly sliced 300ml beef stock, made with 1/2 beef stock cube 2 tbsp tomato ketchup 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 2 tsp cornflour 1 tbsp cold water flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper.

157 calories per portion METHOD Peel the potatoes and cut them into chunks of about 3cm. Put them in a large saucepan, cover with cold water and bring to the boil. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until very tender. While the potatoes are cooking, brush the oil over the inside of a large non-stick frying pan and fry the bacon and onion together over a medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes or until the onion is softened and the bacon is lightly browned, stirring regularly. Remove any damaged leaves from the cabbage and cut in half. Cut out the tough central core and thinly shred the leaves. Add the shredded cabbage to the pan with the bacon and onion and cook for 6-8 minutes until softened, stirring regularly. Add a tablespoon of water to the pan every couple of minutes to prevent the cabbage burning. Remove from the heat.

Serves 4 Prep: 10 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes 500g floury potatoes, preferably Maris Pipers or King Edwards 1/2 tsp sunflower oil 2 rashers of rindless lean smoked streaky bacon, cut into 2cm pieces 1/2 medium onion, peeled and finely chopped 1/2 medium Savoy cabbage (about 300g) 3 tbsp semi-skimmed milk flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper.

Drain the potatoes in a large colander and tip them back into the saucepan. Mash with the milk until smooth and season to taste. Tip the potatoes into the same pan as the softened cabbage and stir together over a low heat until hot and well combined. Transfer to a warmed dish and serve. 22

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FOOD & DRINK

CREAMY PRAWN KORMA 273 calories per portion (if serving 3); 205 calories per portion (if serving 4) Ready in no time, this korma will satisfy your takeaway yearnings. Rich, creamy and satisfying - absolutely prawnographic. METHOD Heat the oil in a medium non-stick deep frying pan or sauté pan and stir in the onions, garlic and ginger. Cover the pan with a lid and cook the onions and garlic over a medium heat for 10 minutes until pale golden brown, stirring occasionally. Remove the lid and stir in the curry paste. Cook for a further minute, while stirring then add the water and bring to the boil. Lower the heat slightly and simmer for 8-10 minutes, uncovered, until the liquid has reduced by half and the onions are very soft. Remove the pan from the heat and, using a stick blender, blitz to a smooth sauce. Stir in the cream and sugar, season with a little salt and put the pan back on the heat. Add the prawns to the pan, bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring, until the prawns are completely pink and beginning to curl. Sprinkle the fresh coriander over the top, stir well and serve the korma immediately with a small portion of rice.

Serves 3-4 Prep: 10 minutes Cooking time: 20-25 minutes 1 tbsp sunflower oil 2 medium onions, finely chopped 4 garlic cloves, finely sliced 20g chunk of fresh root ginger, peeled and finely chopped 3 tbsp Korma curry paste 500ml cold water 2 tbsp double of single cream 2 tsp caster sugar 400g peeled raw tiger prawns, deveined if necessary and thawed if frozen 20g bunch of fresh coriander, leaves roughly chopped flaked sea salt.

Prosecco & Panettone... Summer has left us, for a few months, so I want to give all you Prosecco drinkers something to look forward to. I would like to introduce you to one of my family’s Christmas traditions…Prosecco & Panettone: the Italian equivalent of Sherry and mince pies.

Con Gusto UK Ltd,

Local importers of the finest Prosecco Our Christmas 2014 selection ~ DOC, DOCGs, and Rosé ‘Pink Proseccos’ ~ Trade customers. We offer specialist knowledge, customer sampling and flexible deliveries

As far back as the eighteenth century, Panettone was mentioned as a Christmas treat, probably named after the Milanese luxury bread – Pane di Tono. Panettone is a rich bread/cake, containing candied orange, citron and raisins, from Northern Italy. In the 1920s the great bakers Motta and Alemagna started commercially baking the Panettones we know today. There is a version without “the bits” known as Pandoro, translated literally as golden bread. Take your Panettone, open it and pause a moment to inhale that heavenly Yuletide aroma. Cut a generous slice, butter if you wish, and serve with a glass of chilled Prosecco.

Corporate customers. Let us handle your events, gifts and office party requirements

I would match the richness of the Panettone with a quality Prosecco Superiore Valdobbiadene-Conegliano DOCG Extra Dry. The Italian term Extra Dry actually means medium …don’t be confused, just trust me.

For everyone, choose a ’Prosecco Party ’ as that special Christmas Gift

The quality of the Prosecco DOCG will cut through the sweetness and complement the wonderful flavours of the Panettone. Of course you can have your Panettone with a cappuccino or a cup of tea.

For further details contact Peter Dushko on 07801 055853 or email peter@con-gusto.co.uk

So for 2014, emulate the Italians and bring a modern and lighter slant to your Christmas celebrations.

Buon Natale and Cin Cin. Peter Dushko is the founding owner of Con Gusto and imports wine, directly, from seven Italian vineyards.

FOOD & DRINK

LIGHT CHOCOLATE MOUSSE WITH RASPBERRIES 147 calories per portion Everyone needs some chocolate from time to time so we had to come up with a chocolate pud for this book. We’re happy with this one - see what you think. It’s a little indulgence from us to you with our love and has mercifully few calories!

Your perfect recipe needs top quality ingredients...

Serves 6 Prep: 10 minutes plus cooling and chilling Cooking time: 5 minutes 100g plain dark chocolae (70% cocoa solids) 300g low-fat ready-made custard, preferably fresh 3 large egg whites 150g fresh raspberries 1/2 tsp icing sugar. METHOD To make the mousse, break 95g of the plain chocolate into pieces and place these in a large heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over a pan of gently simmering water until almost melted. Remove the bowl carefully from the pan and stir the chocolate with a wooden spoon until it’s smooth. Leave to cool for about 15 minutes but don’t let the chocolate set. Stir the custard into the melted chocolate until smooth. Whisk the egg whites in a large bowl with an electric whisk until fairly stiff but not dry. Stir a third of the egg whites into the melted chocolate mixture with a large metal spoon to loosen, then fold in the rest. Divide the mixture between 6 dessert dishes or coffee cups. Cover them with cling film and chill for at least 1 hour. When you’re ready to eat, take the dishes out of the fridge and uncover them. Tumble a few raspberries into the centre of each one, dust with sifted icing sugar and grate the remaining chocolate over the top. Serve this on the day of making.

Bury Market, winner of BBC Radio 4’s Food and Farming Awards (Best Food Market) really has it all. With over 350 stalls open every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday you will find our friendly traders sell everything you need for making delicious home-cooked meals.

Great quality produce at great value prices, brought fresh to market every day!

Bury Market Tel: 0161 253 6520

: @BuryMarket

Email: burymarkets@bury.gov.uk Web: www.burymarket.com

Please note: this recipe contains raw egg whites. 24

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OUT & ABOUT

Home For Christmas Oldham Coliseum Theatre George Street Chapel, Oldham Sunday 7th December Oldham Coliseum Theatre’s Learning and Engagement Department in association with Age UK Oldham Presented in the former Methodist George Street Chapel, recently refurbished by Age UK Oldham, Home for Christmas will feature readings of poems and letters written by servicemen and women from both The Great War and the present day.

Oldham Music Centre Christmas Festival 9th December Queen Elizabeth Hall, West Street, Oldham OL1 1UT Come along and hear tradditional sounds of Christmas with Oldham Music Centre Christmas Festival Christmas favourites from the Music Centre’s award winning senior ensembles at the Queen Elizabeth Hall. Starting at 7.30pm Why not visit the Christmas lights every day & Night in the town centre from 2pm. This year’s Christmas tree lights on High Street change colour every 30 minutes! Parking in Oldham town centre up to 3 hours Free parking every Saturday and Sunday on Council Town Centre Car Park. For Free all day parking at weekends visit Hobson Street Car park Spindles and Town Square Car Park Saturday first 3 hours for £1, Sunday first 4 hours for free. Thursday, free from 3pm, applies 4th December, 11th December & 18th December. For more details please call 0161 770 5660 www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Music from both eras will be performed by guest artists The Saddleworth Male Voice Choir and groups from the Oldham Music Service. Tickets Full: £5.00 includes a donation to charities caring for both retired and injured service men and women. For more details please call 0161 624 2829

Shrek The Musical at Palace Theatre Manchester Tues 2 December - Sunday 11 January

Botany Bay Visit Botany Bay this Christmas! Discover a Winter Wonderland of Christmas with inspiring decorations and gifts, perfect for creating a Christmas to remember. Open 7 days a week 9am - 5.30pm. Late night shopping until 8pm on 26th November, 3rd December, 10th November. Free parking and no entrance fee charged. For more details visit www.botanybay.co.uk

Christmas Bazaar at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice

Sunday, November 30, 2014 12:00pm 4:00pm Featuring over 25 stalls from the best traders in Oldham, including Christmas decorations, Christmas trees, chocolates, jewellery, Bazaar café and loads more... There will also be a chance to meet Father Christmas at our magical Grotto. Dr Kershaw’s Hospice Turf Ln Royton, OL2 United Kingdom For more details call 0161 624 9984

Based on the award-winning DreamWorks animation film, Shrek the Musical is this year’s must-see show for all the family. Join our unlikely hero and his loyal steed Donkey as they embark on a quest to rescue the beautiful (if slightly temperamental) Princess Fiona from a fire breathing, lovesick dragon. Add the diminutive Lord Farquaad, a gang of fairytale misfits, and a biscuit with attitude, and you’ve got the biggest, brightest musical comedy around! Featuring all new songs as well as cult Shrek anthem I’m a Believer, Shrek the Musical brings all the much-loved DreamWorks characters to life, live on stage, in an all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza. Join the adventure. Recommended for ages 5+ To book tickets visit www.atgtickets.com/shows

Jesus Christ Superstar at Winter Gardens Blackpool 10th March – 14th March 2015 7.30pm Matinees – Wed/ Thurs/ Sat 2.30pm Tickets from £19.50 To book call 0844 856 1111 or wintergardensblackpool.co.uk 25

OUT & ABOUT

Christmas Gift & Craft Festival

Designs Jewellery’ along with many new stalls.

Uppermill Civic Hall Sunday 7th December. This is the perfect place to pick up all your Christmas gifts, decorations and festive treats. Why not bring the children down to visit Father Christmas in his grotto and take home an early Christmas gift. The ‘SCN Gift and Craft Festivals’ are free to enter, so why not come down and soak up the friendly atmosphere and support your local crafters, creatives and small businesses. As always there is also a huge amount of choice from the craft and gift stall holders with many traditional and modern handmade stalls, with regulars such as ‘Ma’s Ba’s’ soaps and candles, ‘Olive and Rose’ beauty range, ‘Knitted by Lulu’, ‘E V K Kreations’ Sock Monkeys, ‘Wooden Hearts Woodcraft’ and ‘Twisted

Local handmade food favourites will also be there for you to stock up on your favourite treats such as ‘Spread the Love’ with delicious jams and chutneys, ‘Little Saddleworth Pie Company’ with a range of tasty pies and ‘Sugar Violets’ with her wonderfully decadent handmade chocolates. Not forgetting the photographers, artists and authors involved including, ‘David Parker from Altered Images’, ‘Robb Studd’, ‘Deborah Jackson’ and ‘Christine McLean’ There are always plenty of things to keep the children amused, with face-painting, lucky dip and free balloons and some stalls letting both children and adults have a go at making their own items, such as Mary Guest showing how she produces her beautiful wet felted items. For more details please email scntraders@gmail.com or call 07884 271 465

Christmas Tree Festival See over 50 decorated trees on display, all in aid of local good causes. Festival runs from Saturday 6 to Sunday 14 December 11am–4pm (Sat 10am–4pm, Sun 12noon–4pm) at Oldham Parish Church. You can see the lights every day in the town centre from 2pm. This year’s Christmas tree lights on High Street change colour every 30 minutes!

Oldham’s Tommyfield Market Did you know it’s the largest permanent indoor market in Greater Manchester?

Christmas is around the corner and it’s time to start planning those all-important gifts and treats. From Christmas gifts to fresh meat for your holiday feasts, you are never short of choice in Tommyfield Market Hall.

As well as getting the perfect gift, there are themed events taking place for the family and children throughout the year including: Brass Monkeys – Saturday 6 December Enjoy the very best of brass bands in the town centre. Victorian Christmas Weekend – 20 and 21 December Roll up for a vintage Christmas weekend outside the Market Hall. Don’t forget… we’re open on the 7, 14 and 21 December with festive fun in the Market Hall, free face painting and balloon modelling, 11am–3pm. Oldham is under a huge regeneration project and with the opening of the new Metrolink and free parking on weekends; it’s now even easier to access Tommyfield Market.

Take a trip to Tommyfield market; you’ll be surprised at what you find! If you would like any more information about Tommyfield Market contact:

T: 0161 770 4515 E: markets@oldham.gov.uk

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OUT & ABOUT

Heskin Farmers Market Santa will be in his grotto for visits every weekend this December. Only £3 per child.

Victorian Christmas Weekend 20th-21st December Oldham Town Cente Outside Tommyfield Market Hall Albion Street, Oldham Roll-up, roll up for a vintage Christmas weekend outside the Market Hall. Delight in jovial street entertainers and experience two days of magical merrymaking!

Look out for… • • • •

Fairground attractions including a traditional carousel, coconut shy and side show Free roasted chestnuts, mulled wine (non alcoholic) and prizes! Time travelling Victorians and Festive Foxely’s magical penny farthing A Christmas Carriage, Doge and more Dickensian performers

Don’t forget you can see the Christmas lights every day in the Town Centre from 2pm. This year’s Christmas tree lights on High Street change colour every 30 minutes. For more details please call 0161 770 4516

Arriving 12noon on Saturday 6th December. He will be located in The Crafty Potter Studio Heskin Farmers Market, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, Lancs, PR7 5PA. Please call 01257 367280 or 07517 763933 Email info@craftypotterpreston.co.uk or info@heskinfarmersmarket.co.uk

Wedding Fayre

Bury Market has a well deserved reputation for friendly service, fantastic produce and great value. Located off J2 of the M66 and with over 350 stalls open every Full Market Day it’s easy to find and even easier to enjoy! Bury Town Centre is also home to the Fusilier Museum, East Lancashire Railway, Bury Transport Museum and Bury Art Gallery.

January 29th 2015 - Wedding Fayre 6pm-9pm Plan your whole wedding under one roof! Catwalk by Brides Gallery, Flowers In Thyme specialising in wedding flowers, Garry - Master of Ceromonies, Laura Wilson Female Vocalist, Wedding Cakes by Princess for a Day, Handcrafted Wedding Stationary by Cameo Cottage, Wedding Gifts, Wedding Favours by Truly Chocolate, Wedding rings & Jewellery by Jewels May, Hair by The Colour Room & much more! Not to be missed! Free Entry & Glass of bubbly upon arrival. Heskin farmers Market, Wood Lane, Heskin,Chorley, Lancs PR7 5PA Tel 07599831907 Email info@heskinfarmersmarket.co.uk

SANTA’S GROTTO!

Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre, Oldham OL1 1HD HO HO HO! Father Christmas is coming to Spindles Town Square! Fancy bookng a visit in with Santa himself, then visit the site and pick your chosen date.

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

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

To book your place, visit www.spindlestownsquareshoppingcentre.com www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

Saddleworth Group of Artists Annual Winter Exhibition

THE NEXT ISSUE OF

13/12/2014 to 01/02/2015

Well known local artists will again be exhibiting their work at the Saddleworth Group of Artists Winter exhibition at the Saddleworth Museum from Saturday 13th December 2014 through to Sunday 1st February 2015. Always a popular show, especially in the run up to Christmas, the exhibition will be comprised of up to fifty works, with styles ranging from photo realism to expressionistic. Most paintings will be on sale.

OLDHAM, ROCHDALE & TAMESIDE IS PUBLISHED IN FEBRUARY

The group, founded in 1950 by water colourist Ellis Shaw and friends, is currently comprised of around fifty enthusiastic members. Some are full time professionals but all are seriously committed to their work. Run as a registered charity the museum is reliant on admission charges as part of it’s income. Open daily 1.00pm to 4.00pm. Adults £2 – Children - £1 – Concessions £1 –Family Ticket - £4 (2 adults and up to 5 children) For more details visit www.saddleworthartists.co.uk

For details of advertising CALL 01204 860 197 or email artwork@mcgrathmedia.co.uk today.

Clarendon Square Shopping Centre in Hyde is launching its very own countdown to Christmas with the exciting news that Santa Claus himself will be making four special visits during the run up to the big day. Santa’s Grotto will be opening on Saturday 20th December and be open on Monday 22nd, Tuesday 23rd and Christmas Eve from 11am – 4pm. Looking for the perfect gift this Christmas or want to find a festive bargain? Clarendon Square offers a host of high street names including B&M Bargains, Bonmarché, Argos and Superdrug, along with our popular independent stores, so there are lots of reasons to pay us a visit. Find out more along with the latest offers and discounts at www.clarendonsquare.co.uk or like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

We wish all of our shoppers a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year for 2015!

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Keep your car WARM this winter with the help of a local trusted garage. As motorists prepare for chilly early morning starts and freezing weather conditions, nationwide independent garage scheme Trust My Garage is advising drivers to keep their cars WARM this winter. We all know that we should carry out weekly checks on our cars to make sure they are roadworthy – but few of us actually do. In fact, a survey carried out earlier this year by Trust My Garage found that 84% of motorists do not carry out basic, regular checks on their vehicles. By neglecting simple tasks, such as checking oil levels and engine coolant, motorists are in danger of causing engine damage which is always a costly problem and can result in the inconvenience of having no car at all. However, by pledging to keep your car WARM this winter, you can be sure that everything is working as it should be when you take to the road over the next few months.

What does WARM mean? WARM is a very simple, easy-to-remember acronym that can act as a checklist for the parts of your car you should check regularly to ensure that, together with regular servicing, you are keeping your vehicle safe and fit for winter weather conditions.

W is for WIPERS... Windscreens must be kept clear of dirt and debris for obvious reasons. Check wipers and the windscreen are in good condition by giving them a quick examination every week. If rain doesn’t clear from the windscreen properly or there are smears when the blades wipe from side to side, then it is time to consider changing them. The blades become worn with time and if they are used frequently, debris can eat away at the edge of the wiper. Winter weather can also make the rubber on the wipers brittle, which means they are more prone to cracks and splits. Reduced visibility due to badly performing windscreen wipers can jeopardise your safety – and for just a few pounds blades can easily and quickly be replaced.

A is for ANTIFREEZE... Antifreeze is a component of most but not all engine coolants. Having the right concentration of coolant in the engine is essential if it is to work efficiently. Check the water coolant reservoir every week to ensure the liquid inside is at maximum level. If it begins to drop there could be a leak in the system, so it is crucial you get it checked out. If you need to top up your antifreeze, make sure you use the type that is right for your vehicle by checking in the handbook or consulting your local Trust My Garage member.

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0161 624 4003 www.prestigecar-repairs.co.uk

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R is for RUBBER... Are your types correctly inflated? Do they have the right amount of tread? Both are important to keep you safe on the roads. Overinflation or under-inflation can affect steering and braking, while tyres that do not have at least 1.6mm tread – the minimum legal requirement for cars and light vans – might struggle on wet or slippery road conditions, especially when braking sharply. Having tyres with sufficient tread will also help to prevent skidding and aquaplaning, which happens in the wet when traction is lost and the car is lifted by water on the road.

M is for MAINTENANCE... Cars are expensive pieces of equipment that most of us rely on daily, so it doesn’t make sense to neglect their maintenance. A few basic checks every week and a regular service at your trusted dealer means that your car, whether an old banger or a top-of-the-range sports car, can serve you for a good few miles yet.

How else can I keep my car WARM? A simple service from a local Trust My Garage (TMG) member can ensure that your vehicle is safe and fit for driving. TMG members have access to technical information and expertise to ensure that your vehicle remains roadworthy. These garages are experts and can make sure vital components of your car are operating correctly to keep you safe on the road in winter weather conditions. To locate your nearest Trust My Garage member and take advantage of quality service at an affordable price, simply log on to www.trustmygarage.co.uk and type in your postcode to see a list of Trust My Garage members in your area.

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Wiltshire Farm Foods. Just heat, and eat. It really is that easy. A conventional oven or a microwave will do the job, just leaving you to enjoy! We offer a choice of over 260 tasty dishes, including special diet options. Our meals are created using carefully selected ingredients, frozen and then delivered with free delivery by your local team. They can be stored in the freezer and cooked in minutes. Chicken & Vegetable Casserole £2.95 Introductory Menu Pack only £19.95 5 main courses with vegetables: Roast Pork in Apple Gravy Shepherds Pie Chicken & Vegetable Casserole Steak & Kidney Pie Bangers & Mash 4 desserts: Apple Pie & Custard Jam Sponge & Custard Lemon Sponge with Lemon Sauce & Custard Apple Crumble & Custard Order code IN4

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A loving companion FOR many people a pet is a much-loved and constant friend to share daily life with and to provide a comforting presence. Of course, individual pets can mean far more to us. They are often a life-line to socialising with others, someone to make observations to and another live presence in the home when children have flown the nest. We are a nation of animal lovers with around 67 million pets in the UK. There are about 8 million dogs – about 23 per cent of all UK households owns at least one dog – and around the same number of cats. We keep about 20 to 25 million fish in tanks and the same number outdoors in ponds, 1 million rabbits, 1 million caged birds, 1 million guinea pigs and half a million hamsters. And that’s not to mention the assorted snakes, lizards, gerbils, horses, ponies, rats and even pigeons people in this country keep as pets today. Dogs, in particular, make wonderful companions for many older people. As Rebecca Eighteen from national rehoming charity Dogs Trust explains “The general care of a dog means that owners have to stay active, come rain or shine. “Dog-walking is also a great way to socialise with other people. Dogs are 100 per cent reliant on their owners, which can give their owner a sense of purpose and someone to look after.” First, there needs to be a realistic assessment of their situation by anyone wanting to own a dog. If you’re not able to take a dog out for daily walks then it may be worth considering a breed that doesn’t need that kind of exercise. If you live in a tiny apartment then, plainly, taking on a huge dog is not sensible. The same applies if you haven’t got a lot of time for grooming a longhaired dog that may require regular 32

attention when a short-haired breed might be far more suitable. A frail person might find a large, boisterous dog hard to control. So breed, size, temperament and level of care all play a part in that choice. Dogs are also not cheap pets to keep. As well as the right food, a dog needs certain vaccinations as they could be at risk from distemper, parvo virus, viral hepatitis, leptospirosis, para influenza and kennel cough. Neutering also needs to be considered and it’s sensible to get your dog micro-chipped. This is a oneoff fee that means he or she is then on a national database and can be returned if found wandering or lost, so this offers real peace of mind. There has been much publicity recently about puppy farming and the dangers of not buying a dog from a registered breeder. Seeing the conditions where the dog currently lives and, preferably, one or both of its parents is a good idea. This also gives an idea of how big the dog is likely to grow and its temperament. Rehoming centres, as run by charities like the Dogs Trust and the Border Collie Trust GB, are also good places to choose your pet. “At Dogs Trust we have many dogs in our rehoming centres that would prefer an adult-only home without the hustle and bustle of young children. “If you are retired or nearing retirement and cutting back on your hours at work, a dog can be a wonderful way to stay active and connected within your local community.”

Dogs like five year-old Rambo are awaiting owners. “He’d be well suited to a quiet adult home where he is the only pet. He would enjoy leisurely walks with his new owner and a small garden where he can relax in the sunshine. He’ll make a very loyal companion and reward you tenfold with love in return for a warm, comforting home.” Whatever you decide, looking at all the options first – and taking out the necessary insurance – will ensure that you and your pet exist happily together for many years to come.

Make the right choice for your much loved constant friend... Have you had a pet who has become a very important part of your life and family, giving you years of companionship and then sadly due to illness or old age, dies? I lost my cat Tai a couple of weeks ago. She had been with us for 9 years keeping my children company and had become a valued member of our family. After several days of illness she became weak and after taking her to the vets we were told she had a tumour that was sadly, inoperable. We had to make the decision there and then as she was in great pain. We were so upset and emotionally confused we did not think about what would happen to her remains. It is at this point you should stop and take a moment to consider your options - we only did this after the event. I wish we had been aware of the choices we could have made had we planned and looked into a proper farewell for her. I have now come across High Peak Pet Funeral Services and wish I had been aware of them earlier. With help from High Peak Pet Funeral Services you can plan and organise your pets funeral. They provide a genuine cremation and you actually get your pets ashes

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back to bury at home or hold on to in a keep-sake casket or box. I do hope you can learn from my experience and understand an emotional choice will more than likely, not be the right one. You can choose a service which is second to none and give your best friend the dignified farewell they deserve.

The perfect way to say goodbye... High Peak Pet Funeral Services is an independent family-run business based in Buxton, Derbyshire. Founded in 2009, we have already established a reputation for excellence in the field of pet bereavement. As pet owners ourselves, we have experienced the grief that comes from the loss of a beloved pet. Our aim is to try to soften that grief in others by our compassionate, dignified and caring treatment of your pet through all stages of the cremation process and by allowing you to spend time alone with them in our purpose built Farewell Room should you wish. We are situated at Harpur Hill, Buxton in Derbyshire. Our premises have been newly refurbished and converted to provide first class facilities as a local pet crematorium. We are the only member in Derbyshire and the surrounding region of the Association of Private Pet Cemeteries and Crematoria www.appcc.org.uk, the only organisation in the UK setting standards for the pet bereavement industry.

Your questions answered... Q. Will my pet be treated with dignity and respect? A. We are pet lovers ourselves. We have recently lost all of our pets and we fully understand the heartache and sense of loss that this brings. We guarantee to treat your pet as we would our own — with dignity, care & compassion.

Q. How will my pet be transported to your facility? A. We will transport your pet in one of our pet beds or carrying baskets using our private estate car. We will transport them in your pet’s own bed or basket if you

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High Peak Pet Funeral Services

prefer but the bed and bedding will have to be returned to you afterwards. We will not transport clinical waste in this vehicle at any time.

Q. Can you guarantee that I will get all my pet’s ashes back?

A. We only carry out genuine individual cremations. Only one pet is cremated at a time and all ashes are recovered prior to the next cremation starting. Our procedures follow to the letter the code of practice of the Association of Private Pet Cemeteries & Crematoria. A certificate guaranteeing this is issued when the ashes are returned to you. We can also recommend Pet Bereavement Services to help you cope with the loss of your beloved pet. Please contact us early - we can contact your vet to make sure your wishes are carried out.

Compassionate, Dignified & Caring...

34A Cedar Avenue, Harpur Hill, Buxton SK17 9JL Web: www.hppfs.co.uk Email: info@hppfs.co.uk Tel: 01298 214048

Kind words... Thank you so much for the help you gave us after Sam had been put to sleep having been part of our family for almost nine years. While nothing can of course remove the sorrow of our loss, the compassion and thoughtfulness you showed to us and the dignity with which you treated Sam were of great comfort. The community is very fortunate to have you to help in such a distressing and trying time. Kindest Regards Jo and Charles B. Thank you for your kindness and sensitivity in taking care of our beloved Jamie. You could not have done more and we are truly grateful. Alison & Phil

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HEALTH

WHEN YOUR PARENT BECOMES YOUR CHILD The Alzheimer’s Society (2012) estimates that more than 670,000 people in the UK are acting as primary carers for loved ones with dementia, but this is putting dangerous levels of pressure on families who are already under excessive strain according Cognitive Psychologist Dr Lynda Shaw. Dr Shaw says: “Psychologists have charted the development of a growing child and their relationship with their parents for many years but there is little talk of the psychological effects of adult children becoming carers for their parent despite the huge strain on the carers which can affect their own mental state, finances, relationships, work and family. What is being underestimated is that the carer’s mental health is at risk and this depends on a myriad of factors such as their physical health, age, social support, level of resilience and cultural background.” It is nothing new that we are expected to look after our elders across many cultures, but as we are living longer what is new is the extent which we are needing to do this whilst balancing an ever increasing complex lifestyle. The figures are staggering. The population of older people in the UK is increasing and is only set to continue so that by 2034, 23% of the population is

Witnessing our loved ones lose their memory is distressing and often frightening. We may not all have to suffer the same fate. Join the thousands of people around the world taking part in the clinical trial for an investigational medication that may help to provide the answers we need to better understand memory loss.

If you are aged 65–83 and are in good physical and mental health, you may be eligible to participate. For more information call our support team on 0161 864 6067 or text ‘memory’ free to 81025

2014-2015

This research study is being conducted at MAC Clinical Research, an award winning health care organisation developing pioneering new treatments through clinical research. For more information about MAC Clinical Research and to find out where your nearest research centre is please visit www.researchforyou.co.uk. This study has been approved by the MHRA and an independent ethics committee. Other inclusion criteria will apply.

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underestimate. Three in five people will be carers at some point in their lives in the UK and carers save the state some £119 billion a year (Carers UK and the University of Leeds). “Often people become carers for all the right reasons; they love their parent and want to support them as they were supported as a child. However, older people often need care around the clock and this wears the carer down. The carer may become exhausted, frustrated and even isolated from their normal social and working network. The effect can lead to high levels of stress and anxiety.” So how can we help ourselves as carers? “Not being caught by surprise and being informed about the challenges and difficulties a loved one with dementia may face helps a carer with their role. The carer themselves having support and respite is crucial to being able to keep up the role as caregiver. Knowing that you are not alone and not being afraid to ask for help are also key.” Shaw says that carers can feel overwhelmed by the responsibility and how they can meet the needs of their parent as well as the rest of their family. Being a full time carer for a loved one can take its toll both mentally and physically. Shaw advises carers should try not to feel guilt if they need to prioritise their own family or they need to enlist outside help because of their work or other commitments.

TIPS FOR CARERS 1) Having a team of carers, perhaps with you at the helm, can ensure you are giving the best care to your loved one. Create a rota so everyone knows what the routine will be and so that there are no blank times when your loved one is alone when they shouldn’t be. 2) Talk to your family GP and ask about what help is available to you and your family and contact carers help groups to get further support. 3) Talk to your own family and discuss the issues so that everyone including your own children know what the situation is and how things may need to change. 4) Remember to enjoy spending time with your loved one. Laughing uses up the same amount of energy as crying. Try to keep upbeat and talk about what is happening outside of your caring role and about fun things you did together and perhaps can still do. 5) Get respite when you can. If you are exhausted you won’t be of use to anyone and then the whole house of cards will come tumbling down.

Do you know someone who is getting shorter with age? Mum

aged 50 Mum today

Becoming shorter

Osteoporosis

To learn more, call 01772 344620 or email patientoutreach@synexus.com and quote your name, telephone number and reference 124056* *Contacting us won’t put you under any obligation to volunteer. This study is being conducted by Synexus in collaboration with Amgen Synexus is committed to protecting the privacy of individuals’ personal information. Please refer to our Privacy Policy at www.improvinghealth.com for further information.

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after the menopause can be due to spine fractures associated with

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08/07/2014 15:43:13

H E A LT H

Written by ARUP BANERJEE PROFESSOR ARUP K BANERJEE OBE JP D.Sc(Hon) FRCP (Lond, Edin, Glasg & Irel.)

OUR ATTITUDE TO OLD AGE AND OLDER PEOPLE Different cultures and societies have different attitudes to Old Age and the Aged. Some cultures revere older people and keep them within families, listen to them and respect their views and opinions on family matters. Sometimes the grandfather teaches the children and supervise their schooling and education. In case of ‘arranged’ marriages, the grandparents always have a say which is counted seriously. That said, frictions with older members, parents-in-law etc are also fairly frequent and the younger ‘new-comers’ ie the daughters-in-law do not always get on with the older folks in the family and tend to ‘ignore’ and ‘evade’ them. In Western societies, the situation is somewhat different. Here most younger people leave their paternal home even before marriage and live separately – no question of any day to day ‘conflict’! The loving relationship, however, continues with regular visits and attendance at times of worry eg illness etc.

So far so good and there is no need to change the traditional systems in any society. But what about the general ‘attitude’ to older people? In the joint /extended family set – up, do the young genuinely love and respect their elders whether outside or within their own families? With a rapidly changing world and general behaviour of people and the values , is some sort of ‘conflict’ inevitable? Politeness and good behaviour may prevent an open warfare but the ‘tension’ remains somewhat tacit. In societies, where the next generation resides separately, the chances of such ‘internal psychological’ tension may remain minimal. But again what do the younger people think and feel about the old. ‘Generation’ gap can be filled to a certain degree but the actual styles of living may cause conflict. What about the general social attitude to the elderly? Lets forget about specific areas e.g. health-care, but how does the society treat older people? Are they seen as a ‘resource’ of wide experience and knowledge or simply a nuisance always asking for help and assistance? Dependent and frail without any further use to the community! And

is it this latter perception that is the root cause of ‘Ageism’ in social life? Discrimination only based on chronological age is called Ageism! Just like Sexism and Racism, it is an integral part of social attitude. And it is widespread and quite often ‘institutional’ in areas like the Health Service. This ‘attitudinal’ problem is being pointed out and discussed openly in the media. But is it likely to change? A general impression that all ‘older’ people are stupid, poor and chronically sick, may contribute to the development of a ‘negative’ attitude towards the old. It is a ‘fixed and rigid’ view, difficult to eradicate completely. Regular mixing between the old and the young, allowing older people to keep on playing a part in society or even showing some old faces on the TV might help. As the media e.g. TV, Radio or Newspapers often stigmatise the elderly, perhaps their own attitude ought to change first. The stereotyping of the older people must stop. If this can be achieved, the rest would be a lot easier.

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Choosing the right care means understanding all your options

That’s why we offer free advice on elderly care to the people that need it – whether you have questions about yourself, a friend or family member. Our team of specially trained advisors are on hand to answer questions on all aspects of elderly care. It’s free, you don’t need our health insurance and lines are open seven days a week.

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