Preston & Fylde 46

FREE Please

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2016

PRESTON & FYLDE EDITION 46

Barry Manilow ONE LAST TIME: THE TOUR

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The UK’s largest stocks of Collection

Discover the largest selection of superb quality rugs in the UK. We travel far and wide to find the finest rugs in theworld. Every one of our showrooms is home to the most exquisite array of designs. Thousands of designs in every size, shape and colour. When it comes to rugs, we’ve got everything covered.

Service

If you are looking for something special to make the finishing touch to your room you are sure to find it at FrithRugs. With our “Bring to home” service we can even bring a selection to your home for you to choose in situ, so its never been easier to find the perfect quality large rug

Colour

Enjoy a rainbow of shades. Our rugs come in every tone from subtle neutrals in cream and beige to fired-up reds, gorgeous greens and bold blues. Calming and invigorating colours create the right mood for any setting. Bring in samples of your existing colour scheme and find the perfect match.

Warmth

Turn up the heat with a beautiful rug. There’s no faster way to add a warming focal point to any room in the home. Choose a vibrant shade and introduce rich tones to lift your mood and warm your heart. Select a deep pile design and sink into softness and cosy indulgence.

Beauty

Every rug is a work of art. Each hand made rug is unique and has been beautifully created by master craftsmen. This is exceptional quality and skill that has to be seen to be believed. Visit a showroom and the sheer beauty of our designs will take your breath away.

Over 30,000 rugs in stock, with free next day delivery

quality Rugs & large Rugs

Tel: 0845 4 900 600

Style

What’s your style? Traditional, floral, tribal, modern, plain? We source rugs from all over the world with designs from the Middle and Far East and a vast range of machine made wool rugs from Europe. Most rugs are made especially for us. Our exclusive Laura Jade Designer Collection features a dazzling display of contemporary designs and colours.

Ideas and inspiration for everyone.

Birchwood

J9

M62

Warrington Wolves Stadium

M6 J21

A49

Woolston

A57 Great Sankey

A57

A50 M56 A56

A49

Quality

It’s our watchword. We search the world for fine rugs and only the best meet our exacting quality standards.

Our buyers inspect every rug before dispatch to our showrooms. This kind of attention to detail is unmistakable. Step inside a showroom and discover the largest collection of superb quality rugs you’ve ever seen.

Lythgoes Lane (A49) Warrington WA2 7XE Showrooms also at: North Wales LL18 5TZ Staffordshire WS11 7FJ Isle of Man IM4 4LH Kent CT1 3RQ

Comfort

Beautiful to the eye. Warm and comfortable underfoot. All our rugs are made from only the finest materials and come in a range of thicknesses to suit any room. Choose from sleek rugs in fine silk to long pile shaggy rugs. Kick off your shoes and enjoy the sensation. Comfort is guaranteed.

• 30,000 RUGS IN STOCK • ORDER TODAY, HAVE IT DELIVERED FREE TOMORROW* *Excludes weekend delivery.

• FREE PARKING

Choice

See rugs in every size, shape and colour. Our vast selection of sizes ranges from a modest 31 cm sqaure to a huge 8m by 5m. Even larger rugs are available to order.

Choose from rectangles, squares, circles, ovals and octagons as well as hall runners in a variety of lengths.

• BESPOKE SERVICE • OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Open: Mon-Sat: 10.00-5.00, Sun & Bank Hols: 10.00 - 4.00 Closed:

Custom

Most of our designs are available to order in any size, any shape and any colour. So, if we don’t have the right rug in stock for you, we will arrange for this to be custom made, exactly as you want it.

Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day & Easter Sunday FrithRugs is a trademark of GH Frith (Bodelwyddan) Ltd.

DPSv1

CONTENTS he know that unwittingly the site was to be the meeting place for a couple then living 150 miles apart but whose lives and careers had started right on his own Lancashire doorstep.

Old Smokey meets his match Match making through social media is perhaps nothing new but taking a couple of 50-plus silver surfers and an ageing cat acting as introducer has to be something of a first! But it has worked out just purrfectly for everybody.

Old Smokey is something of a media star on Facebook. He’s the mouthpiece of a former top national newspaper photographer who decided to launch the page for pet lovers, their stories and their photographs. Little did

As Old Smokey strolled the green acres of his adopted home little did he know that behind the scenes a romance was unfolding with all the ingredients of Wuthering Heights, a story set very close to his own doorstep, where, ironically, our modern day Heathcliff was living. His Cathy was many miles away but through the humour and banter which the couple shared on the Facebook page a friendship and more was forming as Smokey catnapped his way through far more than his standard nine lives.

WIN TICKETS TO

Closing date for entries - 8th August 2016.

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T w i tt e r i n g with Graham Smith

We read so much about Internet love stories now.

They are usually the province of the young but our lovers are beyond the first flush of youth and kept their true feelings hidden among the pictures of Spring lambs and cuddly puppies on Old Smokey’s page. Few knew their secret and Old Smokey was oblivious to the fact that he was the catalyst (go on, groan then) in a blossoming relationship, a meeting of minds and a fabulous friendship which neither of our anonymous lovers had been looking for but which fell naturally into their laps as both had been victims of unhappiness before.

It became obvious to the couple that destiny decreed

they must be together and they met one day in the shadow of the legendary Pendle Hill, an area where they had both worked many years ago, but which still held a magic for both of them.

The meeting confirmed all that they already knew…and more. Old Smokey had done a catastrophic (more groans) piece of match making. He probably sat back in the sun and knew he’d done a scratch job (I don’t care how much you groan any more).

The couple are now together and very happy, proof that social media can bring fulfilment to all ages, can bridge the miles, can bring like minds together and Old Smokey knows his master’s page wasn’t such a daft idea after all.

A great day out with a Mediterranean flavour at Southport Flower Show

The 2016 show will be Mediterranean themed and events, entertainment, food and floral marquees will be inspired by Mediterranean culture and design. There will be a host of celebrities in attendance from celebrity chefs, to gardening experts and TV stars. Ainsley Harriott, Carol Klein, Joe Swift, Christine Walkden to name a few.

SIMPLY HEAD TO WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK AND SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY! GOOD LUCK!

On

He was an actor who played a part.

These twits cannot even be themselves without a script written by lunatics.

enhanced and wrapped in a brick to throw at the unsuspecting public.

Hair raising

Enough to make you ill Graham Smith

The players in this piece met up recently…Old Smokey was asleep on the coffee table. He cast an eye towards the couple as though he was the cat that got the cream. He didn’t…….I did.

Big John and the pc brigade Irregular readers of mine will know the pc brigade gets up many of my orifices.

Recently the mentally challenged of the USA have decided there can’t be a national John Wayne day because of racist comments he made when he was alive. What?

As I recall John shot thousands of Indians as an actor but never killed one in his own right. What a load of bloody wigwams. I interviewed John many years ago. He was drunk, belligerent, drawling and a pain in the proverbial but I loved him, as I had loved him in every film he ever made. He was a larger than life character with vices. He had opinions, he wore a wig but he was a lovely live human being who gave pleasure to so many.

So who are these twerps who say he cannot be commemorated? Get on your horses and drink your milk.

inside

Being follically challenged I should probably keep my mouth shut, but what’s this coloured hair thing all about?

I’m almost used to the younger generation having tattoos and metal protruding from every bodily orifice but green, blue and red hair. I don’t get it. It is not attractive in any way and makes them look like frustrated orang-utans who are in need of a banana.

As the years advance I find myself in need of a little medical attention, and that’s exactly what I get…little.

Arrive at the surgery and no one at reception speaks to you. You have to punch your date of birth into a machine and it tells you if you have an appointment. It’s also bloody ignorant and doesn’t say “Good Morning”.

Alternatively you can have a telephone appointment. By the time the doctor phones you you’ve Googled your symptoms and know more about the prognosis than she or she does. I spoke to a doctor recently and got more drugs over the phone than I could have done with a machine gun raid on a pharmacy.

Scary.

Recently I saw three apparitions in the supermarket with varying shades of top knot. It put me right off my breakfast of quails’ eggs in octopus pee and thoroughly spoiled my frogs’ leg sandwich.

We’ll meet again One of the true icons of British entertainment, Dame Vera Lynn, is now 99. She seems to share the longevity of the Royal Family to whom she is so close.

What happened to the good old days where the doctor pricked your boil?

The final curtain

Is it really 21 years since we last heard her sing in public? And 60 plus years before that since she was the Forces sweetheart

We’re running out of stars and icons.

So many famous names and wonderful entertainers are leaving us this year, and some not so wonderful who are praised as being icons, a much overused word in the media.

It’s some years now since we sat and reminisced in a small French restaurant, her eyes wistfully looking out to the sea surrounding the country she helped to liberate.

Terry Wogan, Cilla Black and Paul Daniels are three who spring to mind as having contributed much to not just the world of entertainment but far beyond it.

Their talent was honed at a grass roots level with real people, not electronically

Keep smiling through the years you wonderful lady , the inspiration of so many memories.

TRAVEL...

IS CAMPING FUN FOR EMPTY NESTERS PAGES 10-11

BARRY MANILOW ONE LAST TIME: THE TOUR PAGES 14-15

INTERIORS...

DREAM HOMES

JAMES MARTIN

PAGES 17-18

HOME COMFORTS PAGES 34-36

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TRAVEL

Exotic Rivers of the World B y J enn i e C a r r f r o m S i l v e r T r a v el Ad v i so r River cruising has been growing in popularity over the last five years, with many taking trips along the Rhine, Danube or Seine to enjoy the beauty to be found along these waterways of Europe. Historical cities, small towns and river bank scenery are part and parcel of every voyage. However, have you ever thought of exploring further afield on an Asian or Russian river?

River cruises can take you to exotic destinations, with much to explore and discover from the comfort of your floating hotel. Daily excursions allow you to discover the heartlands of new countries, which can be overlooked on ocean cruises. Our river cruising partners, see the fact box below for details, have a superb variety of itineraries and guide-accompanied shore visits that ensure you can immerse yourself in both the culture and history of the destination, whilst enjoying excellent on board facilities and dining.

The Yangtze and Li Rivers, China China has so much to offer visitors and the stunning scenery of the Yangtze is a real must-see one of these. It is Asia’s longest river and the third longest in the world. The Three Gorges, Wu, Qutung and Xiling, are quite magical, with towering mountains and limestone karsts on either side of a narrow passage, created by the upstream dam.

Often covered in mist, the atmosphere is other worldly and mystical.

Downstream the river is vast, with verdant countryside and agriculture on both banks or busy industrial cities utilising it for transport. You can take a short trip through the Gorges or spend longer travelling on the river, stopping at towns and cities on your voyage.

The Li River is famous for its wonderful scenery, with cormorant fishing taking place here, much as it has done for centuries. This is traditional China, with green fields, mountain cliff faces,

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remarkable limestone caves and the city of Guilin.

The Irrawaddy River, Myanmar Since the late 20th century tourism in Myanmar has been encouraged by the

country’s ruling powers and whilst the number of tourists visiting is increasing, the country has retained its values and beliefs. It is as yet an unspoilt destination with a serious abundance of Buddhist temples.

The Irrawaddy is the main river in Myanmar, running through the middle of the country, from north to south, naturally being hugely important for cargo. It is also known as the ‘Road to Mandalay’ after Rudyard Kipling’s poem. It, too, flows through stunning gorges, above Mandalay, with fabulous rock faces, reaching to the sky. Below this busy city, the river joins with the Chindwin River, gets wider and flows southwest through the most populated area, down to the delta. Rangoon (Yangon), the former capital, is located here; it’s the largest city in Myanmar, with many interesting colonial buildings still remaining.

The Irrawaddy has three distinct regions: in the north forests of oak and pine, in the central lowlands there is

TRAVEL The Ships In Asia, these tend to be far smaller than on European rivers, with maybe just 70 passengers or less, staying in truly beautiful staterooms, often in a colonial style, reminding you of times gone by. Picture yourself relaxing in comfortable rattan chairs or on teak loungers, beneath a gently whirring ceiling fan, watching the lush greenery pass you by. Travel on these vessels is luxurious and very comfortable, affording you a sanctuary after a busy day experiencing totally different and fascinating places.

Factbox A number of different river cruise companies offer trips on these wonderful and exotic rivers. The following are recommended by Silver Travel Advisor.

relatively little rainfall, so the forest are of teak and much agriculture takes place here. Finally in the delta region, the mangroves are a haven for birds, the river itself being home to crocodiles, turtles and the Irrawaddy dolphin, and land wildlife includes elephants, leopards, wild boar and dogs as well as macaque monkeys.

rapids, mirror-like lakes and vast fertile floodplains, its banks are home to over 60 million people who rely on it for food, water and transport. A little known fact is that the carp of the Mekong can grow to be nine feet long!

And not surprisingly, this fish forms the basis of many dishes eaten close to the river.

The Mekong River, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand

More well-known is Angkor Wat and the temples around Siem Reap, which are a real wonder of the world especially at sunrise. The beauty of Phnom Penh is found in the Khmer architecture and the Silver Palace is a prime example of this. The Vietnamese delta beyond and around Ho Chi Minh City is known as the ‘Rice Bowl’ due to the fertile soil and ease of irrigation.

The city itself has markets, French colonial architecture, the spectacular Jade Emperor Pagoda and great opportunities for karaoke!

This is a river that touches on many Asian countries and has played its part in conflict and co-operation. The most popular river cruises often start in Siem Reap in Cambodia and finish in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) in Vietnam, passing through Phnom Penh. These names conjure up images of beautiful palaces, monks in saffron robes and golden statues of Buddha.

The river flows through gorges, swift

Viking River Cruises www.vikingrivercruises.co.uk Call 0208 780 7900 Our thanks to Viking for the photographs for this article Ama Waterways www.amawaterways.com.

Call 0808 250 7047 Avalon Waterways www.avalonwaterways.com Call 0800 440 2798 Emerald Waterways www.emeraldwaterways.co.uk Call 0800 270 7017 Noble Caledonia www.noblecaledonia.co.uk Call 0207 752 0000 Riviera Travel www.rivieratravel.co.uk Call 01283 742354 Scenic www.scenic.co.uk Call 0808 102 1335 Uniworld www.uniworld.com/gb/ Call 0808 168 9231

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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7

Offering Great Value Holidays For Over 90 Years

from only

£159 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

8 Day Tours 2016

7 nts dinner, bed & breakfast IMPERIAL OCEAN VIEW

ABBEY LAWN

£439

£439

£439

30 Jul

£439

£439

£439

06 Aug

£439

£439

£439

13 Aug

£439

£439

£439

20 Aug

£439

£439

£439

27 Aug

£439

£439

£439

03 Sept

£419

£419

£419

10 Sept

£409

£409

£409

17 Sept

£399

£399

£399

24 Sept

£389

£389

£389

01 Oct

£309

£309

£309

15 Oct

£299

£299

£299

29 Oct

£289

£289

£289

06 Nov

£309

£309

£309

26 Nov

£309

£309

£309

Only standard rooms available on 9 Day Tours

IMPERIAL OCEAN VIEW

5 Day Tours 2016

4 nts dinner, bed & breakfast

ABBEY LAWN

IMPERIAL OCEAN VIEW

ABBEY LAWN

23 Jul

£409

£409

£409

24 Jul

£379

£379

£379

25 Jul

£239

£239

-

24 Jul

£409

£409

£409

31 Jul

£379

£379

£379

29 Jul

£239

£239

-

30 Jul

£409

£409

£409

07 Aug

£379

£379

£379

02 Aug

£239

£239

-

31 Jul

£409

£409

£409

14 Aug

£379

£379

£379

08 Aug

£239

£239

-

12 Aug

£239

£239

-

06 Aug

£409

£409

£409

21 Aug

£379

£379

£379 16 Aug

£239

£239

-

07 Aug

£409

£409

£409

28 Aug

£379

£379

£379

22 Aug

£239

£239

-

£409

04 Sept

£369

£369

£369

26 Aug

£239

£239

-

£369

£369

£369

30 Aug

£239

£239

-

13 Aug

£409

£409

14 Aug

£409

£409

£409

11 Sept

20 Aug

£409

£409

£409

18 Sept

£359

£359

£359

05 Sept £239

£239

-

21 Aug

£409

£409

£409

25 Sept

£329

£329

£329

09 Sept £235

£235

-

27 Aug

£409

£409

£409

09 Oct

£249

£249

£249

13 Sept £229

£229

-

28 Aug

£409

£409

£409

23 Oct

£239

£239

£239

19 Sept £225

£225

-

£389

£259

£259

-

£389

£259

£219

£389

06 Nov

23 Sept £219

03 Sept

27 Sept £215

£215

-

04 Sept

£389

£389

£389

20 Nov

£259

£259

£259 01 Oct

£209

£209

£209

10 Sept

£379

£379

£379

05 Oct

£205

£205

£205

09 Oct

£199

£199

£199

15 Oct

£195

£195

£195

19 Oct

£189

£189

£189

23 Oct

£185

£185

£185

29 Oct

£179

£179

£179

02 Nov

£189

£189

£189

06 Nov

£189

£189

£189

12 Nov

£185

£185

£185

16 Nov

£185

£185

£185

20 Nov

£179

£179

£179

26 Nov

£179

£179

£179

30 Nov

£179

£179

£179

* 05 Dec £169

£169

£169

* 12 Dec £159

£159

£159

† 23 Dec £399

£399

£399

 29 Dec £349

£349

£349

11 Sept

£379

£379

£379

17 Sept

£369

£369

£369

18 Sept

£369

£369

£369

24 Sept

£359

£359

£359

25 Sept

£359

£359

£359

ABBEY LAWN

23 Jul

7 Day Tours 2016

6 nts dinner, bed & breakfast

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

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

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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9

50 Plus Travel

sponsored by

Is Camping Fun for Empty Nesters?

B Y S t e v e Ald r i dge

Steve Aldridge from Silver Travel Advisor explores the Loire Valley from his very comfortable mobile home with Canvas Holidays Camping, without kids? That’s intense! (well not “in tents”, as we were actually staying in a mobile home but never let the facts spoil a good joke).

Canvas Holidays helped us choose somewhere relatively flat and quiet, with interesting surroundings and booked that alongside Eurotunnel reservations. With a few essentials packed (Baked Beans and toilet roll) we were off to the Château des Marais site in the Loire Valley.

With the cries of “are we there yet” missing, a leisurely drive west of Paris took us to our destination. We admired the largest Gothic cathedral in France at Amiens and stayed at the picture perfect Honfleur. Many painters still follow in Monet’s footsteps and easels abound at the Vieux Bassin (old dock).

Upon arrival, friendly Canvas staff familiarised us with our 2 bedroom mobile home, which was set in a quiet wooded area, with plenty of dappled shade. We had a comfortable lounge to relax in, well equipped kitchen and welcome en-suite facilities. Outside

was a raised decking area with table, chairs and umbrella, perfect for outdoor dining, cups of tea and sampling the local produce such as cheese and wine (it would be rude not to support the local economy wouldn’t it?).

Chairs, sun loungers and BBQ completed the “ahhh this is all very relaxing” kit. The grounds were very well maintained and the woodland nature of the site allows for the tents and mobile homes to be broken into a succession of quiet secluded areas. Open grassy areas, flower beds, swimming pools, reading and games room, restaurant, bar and shop complete the generous facilities on site.

Close by is a jewel of the French Renaissance, Château de Chambord, the largest in the Loire Valley. When Francois I started the build in 1519, he set out to impress everyone who came here and WOW did he get that

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TRAVEL

right. This Château sports an amazing collection of turrets, chimneys and lanterns, which make Cinderella’s castle look a bit boring really. The English audio guide navigates us around this architectural wonder, following a route that did its best not to miss any of the selection of 440 rooms, 365 fireplaces, 84 staircases and 4500 works of art covering paintings, tapestries and furniture that were accessible to visitors. The most impressive staircase is the double-helix staircase that Leonardo da Vinci may well have had a hand in designing. A wonderful outing is concluded with a picnic in the vast and impressive grounds that surround the Château, claimed to be the largest enclosed forest park in Europe, with 5440 hectares to enjoy.

The area around the campsite is relatively flat and there are something like 550 Km of cycle friendly paths, trails and back roads to enjoy, perfect for us to go walking. The Loire Valley between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes is a UNESCO World heritage site and is described as an outstanding cultural landscape of great (I would say exceptional) beauty. We walked for hours along the river Loire and there are some handy parking spots so you can pick up where you left off the day before, without walking the same route again. For a couple of days the temperature was perfect, the sun shone, the dragon flies danced above the reeds with electric blue reflecting in their wings, wild orchids beamed from the bank, trees shed their fluffy white blossom so that occasionally it seemed we were walking through a snowstorm. Hand in hand, at that moment in time, there was no place in the world we’d rather be. The walking paths/bike trails were fairly deserted and we’d walk for quite some time before passing another soul. Nearly all greeted us with a cheery bonjour.

With so many Châteaux in the Loire Valley, we chose Château de Chenonceau, for a second day out. Building began in the 16th century and it is significantly smaller than Château de

Chambord, but its outstanding feature is that it spans the Cher River using a number of elegant arches. The gallery that sits above it is said to have been the venue for many an interesting party in its day. There were also beautiful gardens, a maze and waxworks to admire. It took about an hour to get to the Château de Chenonceau from the site and we stuck to the minor routes to get a look at some of the smaller towns and villages along the way. This made for a really interesting drive, on which we saw smaller Châteaux, churches and were impressed by some of the villages that take a real pride in beautifying their homes with flowers and shaped hedges.

With the horrors of outdoor toilets and showers avoided by having a comfortable mobile home, this proved to be an excellent base to explore this beautiful area and a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. Sign us up for the next camping trip.

Factbox Canvas Holidays offers luxury self-catering tent, mobile home and lodge holidays at over 100 of the finest campsites in Europe. Destinations span across 8 European countries including France, Spain and Italy.

Canvas Holidays provides accommodation to suit all budgets, offering flexibility on dates, duration and travel arrangements.

With plenty of activities tailored for adults, more and more couples are enjoying the flexibility that camping holidays with can offer. Many of their campsites are ideal for an over 50s holiday and offer activities from luxury spas and wine tasting to golf and scuba diving. Camping really does offer something for everyone.

Contact www.canvasholidays.com or call 0345 268 0827

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| 11

THE NORTH'S LARGEST

E-BIKE STORE

know what we are doing, having trained mechanics, tools, spares and above all the knowledge and backing of all the leading brands.

In Europe pedal assist cycle sales commonly known as e-bikes are massive and now here in the UK sales are growing at an un-believable rate now that the quality and choice has finely arrived.

HERE IS A SIMPLE GUIDE TO COVER THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTORS...

MOTOR AND BATTERY

There are two main types of motor, hub drive and crank drive. Hub drive has a motor either in the front or rear wheel supplied with power from a battery this will either pull you from the front wheel or push you from the rear wheel. Crank drive is where the motor is mounted on the frame where the pedals are attached, there are many advantages to this it has a smaller lighter battery, better balanced and less surge as the torque is supplied more evenly throughout the range. The big boys have got behind the crank system with Bosch, Yamaha and Shimano leading the way in technology they cost a little more than the hub system but are our choice of system as they are more reliable have more of a natural feel and perform much better up the hills. As for batteries again the big boys are now involved with Sony and Panasonic leading the way with the lithium cells, there lighter than Ni-cad and generally last longer.

MAINTENANCE

Don't be put off with the motor and electrical bits of kit as most motors and batteries are sealed and need very little maintenance, it will not require much more than a normal bike and we offer free servicing to all our customers for a year. Obviously if you look after it, it will look after you.

TEST RIDES

NOW the most important and fun part, don't just ride it for a few metres we are lucky to have at both our stores flat, bumpy,twisty and dare I say it bloody steep hills, you can try the gears, brakes, position and the different power levels of assist in fact we recommend you try a few. If you want to take bikes out for a few hours we offer accompanied rides free or the chance to hire one for a day or two.

MAKING THAT PURCHASE

After your test rides you should know which bike suites you and your budget, we offer interest free finance, payment by credit, debit and good old cash we will also take any bike as part exchange the choice is yours.

STYLE OF BIKE

Think of any conventional cycle be it Road, Mountain, Commuter, Trekking, Folding and even the three wheel Trike we stock them all plus the equivalent in an electric model. In a nutshell we will have a bike that will meet your needs and aspirations.

SUPPORT & BACKUP

It is essential that once you have purchased your e-bike you have the backup and service, having sold e-bikes for the last twenty years we

AUTHORISED DEALERS FOR...

HAIBIKE | SCOTT | RALEIGH | TREK GIANT | CUBE | AXCESS | FREEGO

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THE HEALTH BENEFITS Cycling has always been a popular way to enjoy the countryside whilst staying fit. However, the electric bike has opened it up to a new section of cyclists. Some people may argue that a conventional cycle will keep you fitter.

A recent Australian study shows that on an electric bike a rider maintains a heart rate intensity that is mainly in the target range where cardio vascular benefit is gained, fats are burned in producing energy and no lactic acid build up occurs. Riding a conventional cycle provides the strongest cardio vascular and fitness workout.

The intensity, however, is often so high that carbohydrates would be used for energy along with lactic acid build up.

A study of 20 healthy but sedentary subjects (10 male and 10 female) showed improvement to general health condition, stating: “The conclusion remains that the electric assisted bike can help overcome the barrier to physical activity.”

WITH TWO STORES TO CHOOSE FROM WHY NOT TRY THE NEXT BIG THING AND TEST RIDE ONE TODAY!

GRAB YOURSELF A BARGAIN!

2015 MODELS REDUCED. WHEN THEY'RE GONE THEY'RE GONE RALEIGH VELO XC £1000 £699 RALEIGH VELO TRAIL £1350 £799 AXCESS HUNTER £945 £845 AXCESS MUSTANG £945 £845 RALEIGH DOVER £1699 £999 GIANT TWIST £1695 £1045 RALEIGH STOW E-WAY £1300 £1099 RALEIGH MOTUS (A COUPLE OF LIGHT SCUFFS ON FRAME) £2000 £1599 HAIBIKE HARDSEVEN SL £1850 £1599 SCOTT EVENTURE 30 £2399 £1749 TREK POWERFLY 5 £2000 £1799 SCOTT E-SPORTSTER £2599 £1899 HAIBIKE FULLSEVEN £3400 £2599 HAIBIKE ALL MOUNTAIN RC £3700 £2799 HAIBIKE XDURO ALL MOUNTAIN RX £4400 £3499 HAIBIKE XDURO ALL MOUNTAIN PRO £5500 £4299 P/X BARGAIN - GIANT TWIST £1699 £499

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| 13

Barry Manilow “One Last Time” BARRY Manilow’s latest UK tour may be entitled “One Last Time” but it’s very unlikely that the British public will ever let one of their favourite artistes simply disappear from view.

At 72, the singer who specialises in lush, sentimental ballads and orchestrated upbeat songs and has long been dubbed the consummate showman, is still as popular as ever on both sides of the Atlantic – and in many other countries around the world.

He will play only eight dates in the UK – from Newcastle’s Metro Radio Arena to the Manchester Arena and London’s O2 Arena – which will no doubt each be a sell-out. But his music is an enduring currency that few fans will ever stop needing, and that ensures that, even if this is “one last time” on tour, his records and TV appearances will be as much-prized as ever.

His life has been all about the music.

As he explains: “I am a musician. My passion for music has obliterated everything in its path for my entire life.

“Whenever there was a choice between music and anything else, music won hands down every time. No one person or material thing could ever come close to the feeling I get when the music is right.”

14 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Barry was born to Edna and Harold Pincus, of Russian-Jewish descent, in Brooklyn, New York, in 1943. His father left when he was just two and young Barry later adopted his mother’s maiden name of Manilow.

His musical interest started early: at the age of seven he learned to play both the accordion and the piano, preferring the latter, and was singing by 13.

After graduating from high school, he was accepted into the well-known Julliard School of Music and paid for his own schooling by working in the CBS mailroom.

It took time for Barry to meet the right people but he was eventually given the chance to become musical director of CBS show “Callback”. To supplement his income, he also wrote, produced and performed advertising jingles for clients including Kentucky Fried Chicken and McDonalds.

In 1971, a then unknown singer, Bette Midler, hired him as her pianist, arranger and musical director and it was a collaboration that brought the young

man his real break into the music world.

He supervised Bette’s first two albums - her debut album won a Grammy award - and in 1972 at the Carnegie Hall, had the chance to showcase some of his own material. This led him to a new label, Bell, offering a record deal; his debut album “Barry Manilow” was released in 1973 although it didn’t sell well.

After Bell itself underwent a transformation and became Arista, however, his fortunes changed. New label head Clive Davis asked Barry to record pop tune, “Brandy”, a UK hit for Scott English. Barry altered the tune to a ballad and renamed it “Mandy”, to avoid confusion with a similar-sounding hit. The haunting song really struck a nerve with the record-buying US public and went to No.1 in early 1975, remaining one of Barry’s best-loved songs of all time even today.

His second, equally successful offering in early 1976 was “I Write The Songs” from the “Tryin’ To Get The Feeling” album which went triple platinum. Barry was becoming an established star.

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW His concert double LP “Live” in 1977 was his first and only No.1 album with sales of more than four million copies. ABC aired his first prime-time programme “The Barry Manilow Special” in 1977, for which he won a Grammy award, and the same year he won a Special Tony award for his Broadway show.

The following year, he had another triple platinum album with three Top Ten singles including the legendary “Copacabana”, and his reputation as an entertainer who delivered was made.

Seven albums and five years later, he inevitably decided to change musical direction and released a swinging jazz album, “2:00 AM Paradise Café”, featuring big jazz names including Sarah Vaughan, Mel Torme and Gerry Mulligan. He continued to show his versatility with swing, vocal jazz and traditional pop through various albums including “Manilow Sings Sinatra” – proving the man can sing anything from standards to showtunes and give it that Manilow magic.

As he admits: “My style of music is the great American songbook meets the pop world of the Seventies and Eighties.”

In 1985, he played the role of Tony Starr in the TV series “Copacabana.”

In 1994, he enjoyed stage musical success with a show of the same name and followed it with another musical, “Harmony”, which toured both the US and UK extensively.

Since then, the hits, the touring and the TV appearances have all continued in large amounts for the boy from Brooklyn. He’s performed in two-hour “specials”, and guested in popular shows like “Ally McBeal” and “Will & Grace.” His career has also been littered with awards; in 2002, he was inducted into the US National Academy of Popular Music’s Songwriters Hall of Fame, alongside Michael Jackson, Randy Newman and Sting.

At the same time as these glittering accolades, though, and the millions of fans he attracts, he has always had his detractors who never saw his brand of music as being contemporary enough.

Go to any of his shows or conventions, however and Fanilow Fever is strictly

the order of the day. The singer makes himself very accessible to fans, and many of them have followed him for the nearly three decades of his career and are intensely loyal.

“I will still make albums and do onenighters here and there. This is the last of the big tours that keep me away from home and living my life. It’s time to stop the big tours, not time to stop.”

He’s had a couple of health scares and, like many artistes before him, probably finds extensive, regular touring exhilarating but tiring. However, Barry himself is keen to point out that the title of this latest tour does not mean he is quitting his singing career.

And that’s good news for the millions for whom Barry Manilow is their singer, their showman of choice. And when worldwide pop trends of all kinds have come and gone – for them, Barry is still No.1.

As he told the American newspaper the Kansas City Star just recently: “I’ve been roaming the earth for 40 years, and it’s not that I’m retiring.

Photos: Mary A Lupo/Shutterstock.com s_bukley/Shutterstock.com

To find out more about tickets for the One Last Time Tour go to www.manilowuk.com WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 15

We’ve Got Cabin Fever!

Garden Office Gym Hobby Room Outdoor Kitchen Bar Mancave

Multi purpose garden buildings for every space

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTATION

Contact Urban Decor on 07985 497 988 or 07814 400 019 www.customlandscaping.co.uk 16 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

HOME of living. These days, they come in all sizes and styles to suit your property and your needs, adding extra space and light.

And forget about those old conservatories that were freezing cold in the Winter and too hot in the Summer. Today’s conservatories have the latest glass technology which keeps the heat in and the cold out to create a comfortable oasis of extended living.

Internally, you might want to open up rooms, getting rid of walls and changing the shape and layout of your home. OPEN-PLAN living is very popular now and very convenient, whatever your lifestyle. Discuss this one with your local builder and discover new ways to maximise the home that you already like into one that you love.

DREAM HOMES WE’VE all seen beautiful homes on TV and in magazines and thought “if only I could have that” and plan happily for the items that you definitely would buy funds permitting.

Like most major buys in life, though, we can often work towards buying one specific item or addition to our home. So, it’s definitely worth having a “wish list” of improvements that you would like if you could raise the money for them.

Itemising these improvements by priority is a helpful way forward, and creating that plan can brighten up even the gloomiest day. Working around the house to see how you would improve it in the best possible way is definitely something worth doing – even if the cash to do it seems very far away!

Start on the outside. Would you like an EXTENSION building onto your home to create an extra lounge or maybe one or two more bedrooms? If you like the location of your current home and you have the room on your present property, this is always a good choice because it means you don’t have the stresses of moving to another area and life can go

By ANGELA KELLY

on as always, only better.

Check first whether you will need planning permission or building control approval by visiting the Government website www.planningportal.gov. uk If you need an architect either go to national bodies like the Architects Registration Board on www.arb.org.uk or ask among friends and neighbours for a recommendation, and try to see something they have designed previously.

The same applies to builders. You can either visit websites like the National Federation of Builders on www. builders.org.uk or the Federation of Master Builders on www.fmb.org. uk Again, it’s always best to try to see something they have already built and find someone who can recommend them.

You may want to improve your GARDEN by having it landscaped by professionals, creating wonderful areas to sit and enjoy beautiful plants and flowers in peace and tranquillity.

You might want to install a HOT-TUB for both relaxing and socialising – just imagine lying in that bubbling warm water without a care in the world!

A CONSERVATORY or ORANGERIE is another brilliant way to both extend your home and improve your quality

The latest decorating trends could influence your luxury plans, and WALLPAPER figures large in 2016 in more ways than one. The minimalist approach is waning and maximalist rules! So, instead of just one feature wall, experts suggest papering whole rooms again – and in strong geometric patterns or vibrant jungle designs which could bring your lounge or living room alive.

Is it time to get rid of that old SOFA and treat yourself to a magnificent new three-piece suite? Choose the style with which you feel most at home, whether it’s a luxury leather or a deep, soft material you can sink into.

It may be that you just love your current furniture but it’s looking a bit the worse for wear. So your dream furniture might involve re-upholstering your sofa in a smart new fabric to suit the new décor of your room.

Style experts predict that rattan furniture is making a big comeback in homes this year so you might opt for the latest styles in this flexible and popular material. An enjoyable tour of furniture shops and warehouses will no doubt reveal some new favourites for you, including modern sideboards and cupboards to help with storage space.

How modern is your TELEVISION? Technology is very apparent in the

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HOME

range of TVs now available to buy, whether you want a huge screen and the very latest Ultra HD 4K TV or something more modest. The reality is that TV is now part of our lives and, if money isn’t the main drawback and you really enjoy everything from the latest cookery shows to sports events across the globe, then there really are some fabulous TVs out there at local dealers with a good reputation for understanding this important entertainment field.

New CARPETS or other flooring could be high up on your dream home list, and are more affordable than you might think. Whether you want a smart, plush new carpet to bring warmth and style to your rooms or you prefer the latest hardwood or luxury vinyl, it’s worth shopping around.

Consider your lifestyle and what you want from your flooring. If you’ve got pets, for example, it’s worthwhile looking at the latest hard-wearing, upmarket designs in vinyl or wooden flooring.

Discuss this with a well-known local company and get their expert advice on what is likely to suit your home best.

If there’s one room that can reflect your personality, it’s the BEDROOM. This is where you come to relax after a tough day, to while away the hours – so you definitely want comfort and glamour in your own style.

Investing in a new bed with a Memory Foam mattress, for example, is a way of combining the two. Opt for stylish new bedroom units where everything has a place, or create a separate dressing room – one each – filled with your colour co-ordinated outfits, shoes and accessories, just like the celebrities have.

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Bedding has never been more versatile, easily complementing a soothing colour scheme echoed in costly accessories and clever style touches. Expensive wallpaper can come into its own here, too, with gentle shades and occasional colour accents to ensure you feel soothed.

The KITCHEN is often considered the heart of the home, and it’s certainly an area which gets plenty of use and where you may spend much of your time.

So why not make it into a fabulous, practical room that you love?

Whether you like clean, modern lines in your kitchen – sleek, shiny units hiding everything from view or rustic, cosy units that remind you of country living, there are plenty of choices to make.

There are also all kinds of labour-saving, clever gadgets like built-in wine coolers or an integrated hot tap available these

days, to make your time in your dream kitchen easy and carefree!

BATHROOMS have changed so much over the last few years that they really are now a place of luxury. Your longedfor bathroom could have a giant freestanding bath or a spa, walk-in shower, his and hers vanity units and the kind of beautiful tiles, mirrors and decor that help make this a place of relaxation and rejuvenation to help you feel marvellous.

And this is where you can continue to dream of your next luxury home improvement.

GARDEN Containers can add seasonal colour to any type of garden. Use them for shrubs, bulbs or annuals or topiary.

Many pots are also ideal for growing fruit and vegetables, especially for beginners in this practical field. A cluster of colourful pots can brighten up a patio.

Garden centres are great places to look for good-value pots and other types of containers – along with giving you useful gardening advice generally – but using old sinks, chimney pots or even big, old saucepans can offer a quirky, personalised look to your garden.

WE all try to enjoy our gardens until the very last days of Summer but planning ahead is as important as planting ahead when it comes to making the most of gardens every year.

And, as the Summer winds to a close, it’s not only a good time to continue getting the most from your little piece of rural England but also to consider how you can improve your garden to enjoy all over again in 2017.

You might want to call in an expert to help with a garden design or pop into your local garden centre for advice. Much, of course, depends on the type of garden you have in the first place.

City gardens have to tick all the boxes – providing an outdoor space for planting, relaxation, play and entertaining. But you may have only a small area for this so most urban gardens have to be functional spaces or plant-filled havens to help escape city life. The Royal Horticultural Society recommends minimal designs and repeated patterns for maximum effect.

Wildlife-friendly gardens feature plants and structures that attract native wildlife like birds, beneficial insects and small mammals. Log piles, hedgehog boxes and bee hotels are among the ideas to help accomplish this.

Mediterranean gardens take their inspiration from the shrubby vegetation of the hot, dry climates of the south of France, Italy and Spain. Here, gravel is often used between areas of droughttolerant plants like lavender, olive trees, rosemary and vines.

Contemporary gardens feature clean lines and clever use of space without fussy detail or clutter. Stone, slate and wood are ideal here, along with clipped hedges, specimen trees and simple blocks of planting. Think minimalist.

Formal gardens offer a balanced design symmetry and a clear floor plan, and cottage gardens need abundant planting that spills over onto narrow pathways to provide masses of colour and scented flowers.

A visit to any sales of garden furniture will also help you plan ahead for your own Great Outdoors next year.

There are all types of garden furniture available, from wrought iron tables and chairs to hardy raffia couches and loungers, wooden benches and more modern shapes to suit your own style.

Fortunately, browsing through garden catalogues is pleasing at any time of the year but particularly in the Winter when thoughts of getting out in the garden once more cheer us up!

Place a bench at the end of your garden to help “draw” you into your outdoor space, and consider having decking in your garden. A well-planned decking area offers that lovely spot to sit and eat, entertain guests or just regularly enjoy the fresh air with family and friends.

Tiered decking with railings around it, for example, provides a fascinating central feature for any reasonable-sized garden. And consider painting your decking in vibrant colours if you feel your garden needs a quick brightener.

An area of grassed lawn is still a very pleasing sight for many of us and even mowing – thanks to the latest light and effective lawnmowers – isn’t a major chore or too difficult a price to pay. However, sometimes as we get older, trying to regularly mow a large or difficult to access area becomes just too much so it could be worth thinking about alternatives.

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GARDEN Maybe you have always wanted a hot tub, instead, to simply sit in that pleasant place in your own home and let those aching muscles be gently massaged by the bubbling water. Hot tubs have never been more popular – or affordable – and are popular with many for socialising with friends and family. They don’t take up much space, are easy to maintain, and if you’re worried about the weather you could invest in either a proper “house” for your tub or opt for a canopy to allow you to remain enjoying this delightful treat whatever the weather.

Artificial grass has come a very long way from the rather unattractive carpet-like product it once was. Today’s artificial lawns are not only beautiful and very natural-looking but also feel great to the touch and are very hardwearing.

They can be both children-proof and pet-friendly so it’s definitely worth an enquiry. Check out someone else’s garden where they have had artificial grass if you can and you could be pleasantly surprised.

"If you’ve got a large garden, would a Summer house, a garden studio or a traditional shed or a log cabin enhance your space and lifestyle? Today’s models are often much more sophisticated than the originals, although many do prefer a traditional approach."

Some have their own heating system and certainly can add a valuable extra “room” to your home where you can work, eat or just enjoy some peace and quiet. Garden studios have become a popular choice for many people working from home now, offering a distinct “office” all year round and allowing them to separate working hours from home-life.

20 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

If you have the space – and the budget – how about your own swimming pool?

They come in all shapes and sizes to allow you to exercise in the heated waters anytime you want to, or just to chill and swim casually. They’re always popular with children and on the hottest days of our British Summers they’re an ideal place to cool off and really enhance that time in your garden.

Keen gardeners love greenhouses and, while the concept has not changed much over the years, the safety and styles have. Chris White from Hartley Botanica which created the original aluminium-framed greenhouse in the 1950s, says that safety and styles are very different today. “There is a definite trend towards having a greenhouse and towards growing your own fruit and vegetables,” he explained. “In fact, the only true organic foods offering self-sufficiency are the ones you grow yourself, usually in your greenhouse.”

The Flyer

Focus on V.S.F.

At V.S.F. Ltd we have been helping people turn their old, impractical garages into modern and useful spaces for the last decade. Our experts can take on pretty much any project, from refurbishing your rundown concrete garage ensuring you have a secure storage space for years to come, to erecting a completely new one for you, or transforming your garage into an up-to-date and ultra-functional utility room.

It doesn’t matter how old your garage is or what condition it is in, V.S.F will give it a new lease of life or totally transform it to add value to your home.

Whether it’s just a replacement roof that is needed or a full refurbishment, V.S.F. will take care of every aspect, from the technical survey through to the installation.

You don’t even need to empty your garage we will empty it for you if necessary, do the job and then leave everything spotless when we have gone. You won’t even know we have been there, apart from the wonderful space that we leave behind.

V.S.F. can reduce or extend your garage, block up doors with panels, take out panels and add new doors.

We can reduce or increase garage door sizes, install new windows or change your roof from flat to apex. The options for your garage are virtually endless - and we will work with you at every stage to ensure you get just what you want.

Marcus Jeffreys, strategic consultant for the company, said: “We are absolutely committed to ensuring that from your initial contact to completing your installation, whether it be a refurbishment or a replacement garage, every aspect of your installation is managed correctly, ensuring that the installation and completion dates are met.

“In present times, when the building industry has a reputation for not fulfilling deadlines and shoddy workmanship, we take pride in offering you a pleasant buying experience.

This means providing quality products installed by trained personnel and on the date promised.

“We are also proud to be able to provide quality products at a fair market price. We are always continuing to improve our products and negotiate the best prices so that we can offer our customers value for money.”

Before

After

Safety, too, is paramount for us. With so many garages of the age and type that we work on containing potentially hazardous asbestos, our experience is all the more important. All our operatives are certified asbestos removers meaning that they can remove the asbestos safely and legally from your garage and also hold valid

waste carriers licences to allow legal transportation of your asbestos to our depot. And on top of all this, we offer a free, no-obligation consultation. So, for the best storage, utility or living space you can get, contact V.S.F. For more details, visit our website at www.vsfgaragerepairsuk.com or give us a call on 0800 917 9550.

For your 10% 50 Plus Discount quote ref: PRF-9 P le a s e m e n t i o n ‘ T h e Flyer ’ wh en r esp o n d in g t o ad ver t isements

T H E FLY E R | A P R IL 2 0 16

5

BEFORE *

AFTER

THE THE ONLY ONLY GARDEN GARDEN FENCE FENCE THAT THAT MAKES MAKES COMMON COMMON SENSE SENSE � 25 YEAR GUARANTEE* � WITHSTANDS WINDS OF 130MPH

Fencing to be proud of...

Colourfence is a unique garden fence that will never need painting, treating or expensive staining and is maintenance free for life. It looks great all the time, in a choice of four colours and fitted by friendly local installers.

For a no pressure friendly survey call...

Freephone 0845 6028816

www.colourfence.co.uk 22 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

The only fencing you need...

Are you fed up with painting your fence year in year out with expensive treatments? Well now you do not have to, as this amazing Colourfence is maintenance free and never needs painting.

John Saunby and his son are running the only firm which offers Colourfence in the Preston & Fylde area.

This is great news for homeowners who have become tired of the costly, timeconsuming and never-ending upkeep involved in timber fencing. Colourfence is the smart choice for long-lasting, low-maintenance fencing which comes with a 25 year guarantee and the builtin strength to withstand harsh climates including wind gusts of up to 130 miles per hour.

Over the past 10 years, Colourfence has altered the way in which gardens can be fenced, and it is now available locally.

Just imagine, for the price of a comparable quality timber fence, you could have a fence that’s professionally installed, will stay in place no matter what, and requires no more work than the occasional hose down with water to keep it looking as good as new.

Creosote, fence paint, wood stain — all things of the past with Colourfence, so it’s time for the fence brush to be consigned to the dustbin.

All surveys and installations are handled by Julie and her team, who promise an honest and friendly evaluation of your fences, and a noobligation, no-strings attached quote.

Not only will a Colourfence product provide the perfect backdrop to your garden all year round and perfect privacy from prying neighbours’ eyes, it will also give the peace of mind of having a most secure boundary to your property. With 80% of burglaries taking place after access through garden fences, according to John this has to be an added bonus which can’t be ignored.

Timber fences need annual upkeep and painting, and yet they will age, spoil and need replacing within a matter of years.

A good-looking & well maintained fence enhances the appearance of your garden as well as improving security & safety for your family

John said:“This is great news for the people of Preston & Fylde and the surrounding areas as Colourfence is a premium fencing solution at affordable prices, choosing the product line is a no-brainer.

“There’s virtually no maintenance, and it offers so much more strength and durability than timber fences,” he said.

“We offer a no-nonsense, all-in price which includes installation by ourselves. Combined with the cost and guarantees, this means that Colourfence is much better value than timber in the long term.”

Colourfence, on the other hand, is made of a strong Colorbond steel, with a special anti-corrosion layer that won’t scratch or rust, topped with a special coating, primer and a beautiful finish coat in four colours to choose from.

Matching railings and gates are also available, which are guaranteed not to rust of flake for 10 years.

Colourfence built its business model on ethical trading, and promises that it will never use hard-sell methods.

John said: “We just arrange a friendly meeting to see how we can help customers make a great choice in fencing.

“This includes an honest and straightforward survey of the garden and fences. We show the customer a range of photographs and samples, and offer a no-obligation, no-pressure quotation.

“The benefits of the products are such that we just don’t need to ‘sell’ them.”

For more information, visit colourfence.co.uk, or contact John Saunby on john.saunby@colourfence.co.uk or 0845 6028816.

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| 23

Transforming Smiles As an implant centre of excellence, Douglas Lee Dental Associates recently carried out its 150th ‘Fast and Fixed’ same- day implant procedure, a technique that has transformed the smiles, and the lives, of many patients...

BEFORE

Leading the way in UK implant technology is Lancashire-based Douglas Lee, who was one of the first dentists in the country to adopt the highly successful pioneering ‘Fast and Fixed’ technique.

The ‘Fast and Fixed’ implant procedure has made Douglas Lee Dental Associates a flagship practice and teaching surgery for the Germanpioneered technique, Testament to their skills, the team at Douglas Lee Dental were the first in the UK to carry out a full set of upper and lower jaw implants in the same day.

The team were absolutely wonderful, they are so attentive and it’s a very caring practice

After reading about the procedure, sales consultant Jacqueline Shonn called Douglas Lee Dental and arranged for a consultation: “I am 55 but I am not an old 55 and I had to wear dentures on either side of my lower teeth, which I hated with a vengeance!

They made me feel old!

care she received: “The team were absolutely wonderful, they are so attentive and it’s a very caring practice.”

“I had been thinking about implants for a while and after talking to Dougie I decided I definitely wanted to go ahead.’’

Jacqueline, who lives in Manchester, was amazed at the

Having experience in many aspects of dentistry and now a respected expert in implants, Dougie comments: “No-one wants to lose their teeth but sometimes, despite everyone’s best efforts, teeth fail and

24 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

After undergoing the sameday implants Jacqueline was delighted with the results: “It has improved my confidence a million per cent! I am thrilled.”

we previously had to resort to prosthetics like removable dentures. Dental implants are a wonderful improvement on these.”

Jackie had lost a number of her teeth and with several failing teeth still in place, she also needed work on her gums.

Sedated, Jackie was then painlessly fitted with her lower implants.

During their years of experience, the team at Douglas Lee Dental Associates have refined the ‘Fast and Fixed’ procedure and have state-of-the-art in-house technology at their fingertips.

In addition to the Helbo laser

PULL QUOTES “The team were absolutely wonderful, they are so attentive and it’s a very caring practice” “I had been thinking about implants for a while and after talking to Dougie I decided I definitely wanted to go ahead”

which eradicates over 99 per cent of harmful bacteria, there is a Cone beam CT scanner and an on-site dental lab with experienced technicians, who are able to custom make the implants on the same day.

Sedation ensures that no pain is felt and the patient remains relaxed throughout the experience.

“To be honest before the procedure I felt quite wary but, it was amazing, I felt no pain or discomfort. I also had four teeth removed and it was still better than going to the dentist for a filling!” says Jackie.

I had been thinking about implants for a while and after talking to Dougie I decided I definitely wanted to go ahead

Preparation is the key to the success and the team of dental nurses, dental technicians, cosmetic dentist Usman Riaz and Dougie himself, all play their part on the day. ‘’No two smiles are the same, so there is no ‘one-size-fits all’ when it comes to this level of cosmetic dentistry, ’’ says Usman.

“Carrying out our 150th procedure was quite a milestone for us and like all the

other patients, the implants have completely changed Jackie’s smile,” adds Usman.

“Implants can transform people – they gain confidence and restore self-esteem. It may sound a cliché but this procedure really does change their lives.”

Douglas Lee

A S S O C I A T E S Douglas Lee Dental Associates

115 Whalley Road Accrington BB5 1BX 01254 237517 hello@douglasleedental.co.uk

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| 25

OUT & ABOUT hop ide s

as A se

e

rienc

expe ping

Summer Craft Sunday A traditional market with over 200 stalls.

A shopper’s paradise for gifts, clothing and household goods.

Bag a bargain today! /FleetwoodMarket

Sun 21st Aug 2016 Scorton Village Hall, Factory Brow Scorton, Near Garstang

Nestled at the feet of the Bowland Fells, the charming village of Scorton plays host for the third Summer Craft Sunday.

The previous two events have seen crowds flock to see and buy high quality art and craft from 20 local makers. Come and browse a hand picked range of artist’s stall, and enjoy refreshments from a pop-up vintage tea room.

To find out more, visit hopefulandglorious.co.uk

Flower Power Plant Fair

Sunday 24 July 2016 at Lytham Hall 11am-4pm. Admission - £3

Lytham Hall will be holding a specialist plant fair organised by Flower Power Fairs. Following on from the previous four years, the fair will take place beside the Tea room and rear of the Hall and will feature many RHS and other show award winning nurseries.

The fair offers quality plants at realistic prices frown by the nurserymen and nurserywomen attending the event and admission of £3 includes entry to the gardens and plant fair. Refreshments will be available and parking is free.

Victoria Street / Adelaide Street, Fleetwood, Lancashire FY7 6AB Tel: 01253 887651

Sunday 17 July in 2016 Fleetwood Festival of Transport is otherwise known in local parts as ‘Tram Sunday’.

Tram Sunday is The fun-packed transport event for all the family and is the largest FREE event of its kind, attracting crowds of 70,000+ to fill the town of Fleetwood.

There's something for everyone and entertainment for all the family.

This year's Tram Sunday is set to be bigger and better than ever, and with more than 6 weeks still to go to the biggest event in Fleetwood, there are already more stalls, cars and amusements booked to attend the event on Sunday 17 July!

The Tram Sunday footprint has been extended for 2016 and, for the first time, it will include the Memorial Park where the organisers are planning an exciting finale to this year's event. Watch out for more updates!

Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday all year round from 9am - 4.30pm Also open all Bank Holidays and Tram Sunday

Fleetwood Tram Sunday

For more information visit www.flowerpowerfairs.co.uk

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Tram Sunday first took place in 1985 as a part of the celebrations for the anniversary of Blackpool trams and continued to develop over the years to include any form of transport: classic cars, motor bikes, buses and of course, not forgetting the trams.

Its popularity has increased through the years with both transport enthusiasts and the local community in Fleetwood.

Under the leadership of a new management team in recent years, the festival has grown with the inclusion of further attractions.

In 2014 the “Spare pARTS Festival” ran for the first time in conjunction with the event and brought exciting, transport themed professional arts performances, entertainment and displays to the event including professional street artists, which have been incredibly popular with everyone and only made the event bigger and better!

For more information go to www. visitfleetwood.info

OUT & ABOUT

Bury Market has a well deserved reputation for friendly service, fantastic produce and great value.

Summer Craft Sunday Sun 21st Aug 2016 Scorton Village Hall, Factory Brow Scorton, Near Garstang

Nestled at the feet of the Bowland Fells, the charming village of Scorton plays host for the third Summer Craft Sunday.

The previous two events have seen crowds flock to see and buy high quality art and craft from 20 local makers. Come and browse a hand picked range of artist’s stall, and enjoy refreshments from a pop-up vintage tea room.

To find out more, visit hopefulandglorious.co.uk

The Goblin Gathering featuring Labyrinth (U) for Lytham Festival

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!

Monday 1 August 2016 7.30pm start, film commences at dusk around 9.30pm Admission: tickets available through Lytham Festival Adult £16.50, (all inclusive of booking fee). Children £11.00 Tickets also available from 0844 888 0200

Bury Town Centre is also home to the Fusilier Museum, East Lancashire Railway, Bury Transport Museum and Bury Art Gallery.

Picnic Cinema, the North’s number one outdoor cinema returns to Lytham Festival for a party in the gorgeous grounds of Lytham Hall.

What to expect - a party atmosphere, fun and games, fantastic music on the sound system, oh and a great film on the huge outdoor screen. Dressing up is also positively encouraged.

MUSIC POLICY: The Goblin King will be spinning his hits as well as other 80's classics

Pendle Art Fair

Sat 8th – Sun 9th October 2016 Pendle Heritage Centre & Higherford Mill Barrowford, East Lancs

Enjoy a weekend of contemporary art and craft across two sites in the beautiful village of Barrowford in Pendle.

TheHigherford Mill Open Studios offers a great opportunity to experience a great range of creative skills, see at artists at work, ask questions and explore. Pendle Heritage Centre will be the venue for over 20 stalls showing and selling work by select northwest makers. With these two stunning venues less than 5 minutes stroll apart visitors can both events on the same day, and a pleasant off-road amble by the side of the river.

If you are an artist and want to apply for this fair, details will be available shortly on the site at hopefulandglorious.co.uk

CLOTHING: Goblins, 80's hair, fantastical eye make-up, red-striped baby grows Lytham Hall plays host to The Goblin Gathering, a night of goblin inspired shenanigans before we settle down to watch cult film Labyrinth - You remind me of the babe, what babe?, babe with the power....

WHAT TO BRING: A TORCH – it's dark out there A CHAIR – we do not provide seating (but you can hire a chair) WARM CLOTHES – even if it’s 30 degrees in the day it will get cold at night. Wrap up warm WET WEATHER GEAR – we hope it won’t but it might rain FOOD – bring a picnic, or buy food on site DRINK- you can bring your own (no glass) and there will also be a bar

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

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| 27

Great entertainment.

August

September

The Dressing Room

Lennon - Through A Glass Onion

................................................................................

Bobby Ball’s all-star play starring Bobby Ball, Tommy Cannon, Stu Francis and Johnnie Casson.

Tuesday 2 August 7.30pm

................................................................................

Part concert and part biography, this two hander Features 31 hits of Lennon and Lennon/ McCartney including ‘Imagine’, ‘ Revolution’ and ‘Jealous Guy’.

Russell Watson - Songs from the Heart

Friday 2 & Saturday 3 September 7.30pm (sat mat 2.30pm)

Wednesday 3 August 7.30pm

Raffles - The Mystery of the Murdered Thief

The UK’s best selling classical crossover artist returns with a collection of our best loved songs.

Ladies of Swing Ft. The Honeybirds

A sparkling whodunit based on the thrilling classics by E W Hornung, starring Ian Sharrock (Emmerdale, Alan Partridge) as Bunny.

Celebrate the music of Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Monday 5 & Tuesday 6 September 7.30pm Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, Nina Simone, the Andrews sisters and more in this brand new show. (sat mat 2.30pm)

Thursday 4 August 7.30pm

The Lady Boys of Bangkok

Martin Daniels Comedy Show

Forever Yours

Captivating audiences with his uproarious sense of humour, charming personality and consummate magical skill.

Energetic, exotic, eclectic and completely unpredictable – those sensationally glamorous Lady Boys of Bangkok are ready to whoop it up!

Friday 5 August 7.30pm

Wednesday 7 September 7.30pm

Rock ‘n’ Roll Paradise

Ray Quinn

A brilliant rock ‘n’ roll show where the music plays the leading role! With hits from Elvis Presely, Jerry Lee Lewis, Buddy Holly, Eddie Cochran and more.

Featuring songs from the new album plus a few covers... His Swing fans won’t be disappointed either!

Saturday 6 August 7.30pm

Thursday 8 September 7.30pm

Tea Dance

Lewis Schaffer - You Are Beautiful

Tuesday 9 August 2pm (monthly event)

Friday 9 September 8pm

Arrival - The Hits of ABBA

Comedy At The Guild

Live music provided by our organist Chris Hopkins Lewis Schaffer is Free until Famous! The acclaimed New York comic with his unique free show. There (Direct from the Blackpool Tower Ballroom).

Featuring mixed ballroom and sequence dancing. is a bucket collection- pay only if you laugh.

The international, multi award-winning show that has sold out in over 20 different countries worldwide since 1995.

Thursday 11 August 7.30pm

Hollywood Special Effects Show

Get closer to the action than ever before as this interactive family show takes you behind the scenes of your favourite films to discover the science and secrets of creating movie magic.

Friday 12 August 2.30pm

Geno Washington & The Ram Jam Band A hard-hitting, fast-moving show of R&B, Blues and Soul classics that will have you on your feet from start to finish.

Friday 9 September 8.30pm

Ronnie O’Sullivan V Judd Trump The Eleven 30 Series

Two of the world’s biggest snooker stars in one of the biggest grudge matches ever! Starring Ronnie O’Sullivan and the young pretender Judd Trump.

Sunday 11 September 7pm

Preston Musical Comedy Society presents

Guys and Dolls

Featuring some of Broadway’s greatest tunes, including ‘Luck Be a Lady’ and ‘My Time of Day’

Friday 12 August 7.30pm

Wednesday 14 - Saturday 17 September 7.30pm (sat mat 2.30pm)

Comedy At The Guild

G4 - Back For Good Tour

Friday 12 August 8.30pm (monthly event)

Saturday 17 September 7.30pm

This August our monthly in-house comedy club brings Dave Ward hosting Steve Shanyaski, David Whitney and Pierre Hollins.

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MC, Brendan Riley hosts tonights acts; Sully O’Sullivan, Andy Watson & Gary Little.

Due to the overwhelming demand for G4, they are delighted to return to the stage with a brand-new and exciting show.

It’s closer than you think.

An Evening of Dirty Dancing: The Tribute Show

The original concert celebration of the iconic music from the multi-award winning soundtrack to Dirty Dancing.

Wednesday 21 September 7.30pm

ShepherdMay Productions presents

Bugsy Malone

Time Travel back to New York in the 20’s and join Bugsy Malone, Tallulah, Fat Sam and Blousey Brown for some musical gangster fun.

Friday 23 - Sunday 25 September 7.30pm (sat mat 2.30pm)

Romesh Ranganathan - Irrational

‘Irrational’ will see Romesh examine the issues close to his heart, and explains why everybody else is wrong about them.

Friday 23 September 8pm

World Snooker

International Championship Qualifers

See all the top players as they return to the iconic venue. All matches will be best of 11 frames.

Tuesday 27 - Thursday 29 September Sessions at 9.30am & 7.30pm

Killer Queen

Thrilling sell-out audiences across the globe, Killer Queen recreates the high energy, powerful phenomenon that was Queen live.

Friday 30 September 7.30pm

October

................................................................................

Always & Forever

Professor Brian Cox Live (sold out)

A dazzling journey through space and time, delving into ‘high science’ and freewheeling on the edges of the known cosmos.

Wednesday 5 October 7.30pm

Daniel Sloss - SO?

Don’t miss Scotland’s internationally acclaimed and award winning comedian with special guest Kai Humphries.

Wednesday 5 October 8pm

Pride & Prejudice with 2 actors

Fun, fast and romantic – this chance to catch the five Bennett sisters and the whole world of Austen brought to life by just two actors is a treat not to be missed.

Loved by millions, see Helen’ Forrester’s dramatic, moving and heart-warming tale come to life as she and her family are forced to survive in the slums amongst the streetwise working class.

Wednesday 19 - Saturday 22 October 7.30pm (Thu & Sat mat 2.30pm)

Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers

Mugenkyo create a contemporary look & sound, fusing the traditional spirit of taiko with a modern stage performance.

Sunday 9 October 7.30pm

Classic Rock USA

A heart pumping, drum beating, pulsating Rock extravaganza featuring over 25 hits from Brian Adams, Jon Bon Jovi and the ‘Boss ‘himself Bruce Springsteen.

Monday 10 October 7.30pm

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

The Illegal Eagles

The Adele Songbook

Wednesday 12 October 7.30pm

Guest conductor Andrew Manze weaves the spell tonight: here be fairies, lovers, and of course a man with the head of a donkey.

Long established as the World’s Official No.1 Eagles tribute, Illegal Eagles return with their tight harmonies, acute attention to detail and incredible showmanship.

Sunday 2 October 7.30pm

Thursday 13 October 7.30pm

King of Pop - The Legend Continues

Big Girls Don’t Cry

Monday 3 October 7.30pm

Twopence to Cross the Mersey

Saturday 8 October 7.30pm

Saturday 1 October 7.30pm

Navi with his live band and dancers bring you a thrilling new show that takes you closer than you ever imagined to an original Jackson concert.

Saturday 15 October 7.30pm

A 50/50 Social dance evening featuring Ballroom, Latin and Sequence Dancing. With Live music from the Mike James Dance Orchestra & Singers.

Katie Markham has the show-stopping voice and captivating charisma to deliver all your favourite Adele hits in an enthralling concert performance.

Navi & Jennifer Batten

A historian at heart, listen to the extraordinary story and then feel free to question him about it.

Big Dance Night

Someone Like You

Beethoven Violin Concerto

Life: A Game Of Two Halves

Thursday 6 - Saturday 8 October 7.30pm (sat mat 2.30pm)

Celebrating the Songs of Luther Vandross

Let Luther live again with the help of the super smooth Matt Philips. Bringing the same passion and charisma in a spectacular show.

Michael Portillo

Featuring the Eastcoast Boys celebrating the music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

Authentically reviving the sublime harmonies of New Jersey’s finest. From the rock’n’roll nostalgia of Grease, to the spine-tingling – show-stealers such as My Eyes Adored You.

Saturday 15 October 7.30pm

Preston

Guild Hall Box Office: 01772 80 44 44 prestonguildhall.com prestonguildhall @prestguildhall | 29 WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

OUT & ABOUT WINNER! QUALITY VISITOR ATTRACTION AWARD

Great Eccleston Show Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th July 2016

The Great Eccleston Show is a two day event and is a showcase for every aspect of rural endeavour and the whole range of crafts and skills associated with the country. With cooking, handicraft, horticulture and local arts, this north west agricultural show is a big attraction to townspeople and country folk alike. We have classes for Shire horses, sheep, pigs and poultry, light horses, goats, tractor-pulling and a ‘companion’ dog show. Traditional rural crafts can be seen alongside the latest in agricultural technology.

At the Great Eccleston Show you’ll find marquees displaying everything from fruit and flowers to cakes, cheese and chutneys, a big food hall featuring local produce along with a food theatre, demonstrations of traditional rural craftsmen at work, sheep herding, sheep shearing, bee keeping, a Victorian fun fare, stunt riders, Cumberland wrestling, Memory Marquee and lots more – there really is something for everyone.

The Fylde area is home to many of Britain’s top breeders and the cattle, sheep, horses, goats and poultry appearing at Great Eccleston are some of the best in the country, and the produce on display is second to none.

Summer Craft Sunday Sun 21st Aug 2016 Scorton Village Hall, Factory Brow Scorton, Near Garstang

Nestled at the feet of the Bowland Fells, the charming village of Scorton plays host for the third Summer Craft Sunday.

The previous two events have seen crowds flock to see and buy high quality art and craft from 20 local makers. Come and browse a hand picked range of artist’s stall, and enjoy refreshments from a pop-up vintage tea room.

To find out more, visit hopefulandglorious.co.uk

ADMISSION PRICES

£8.95 ADULTS £12.95 GROUP OF 4 £35.00 GROUP OF 5 £40.00

WIN A £25 M&S GIFT CARD!

CHILD/SENIORS

BOX OFFICE

0844 256 1111

(24 hr booking, fees may apply)

TICKETS

SIMPLY VISIT OUR COMPETITIONS SECTION ON WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

ILLUMINASIA.CO.UK

OPEN 11.00AM UNTIL 5.00PM. LAST ADMISSION 4.15PM PLEASE CHECK OUR WEBSITE OR OUR 2016 LEAFLET FOR DAYS OF OPERATION.

O LY M P I A , W I N T E R GA R D E N S , B L AC K P O O L

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Untitled-1 1

02/05/2016 11:44

“I say, have you heard what’s going on at Bygone Times?!”

Antiques & collectables across the ages!

500 STALL HOLDERS - ACROSS 5 ENORMOUS FLOORS Including a Cobbled Alleyway & Courtyard Garden Centre

1000’S OF PRODUCTS NOT TO BE MISSED

LANCASHIRE

TITANIC MUSEUM

Antiques

Collectables

Furniture from every period Silverware & Jewellery Antique timepieces Decadent Pottery

Toys & Figureens Books including 1st editions Tracks & Trains Beautiful Artwork

Memorabilia War Memorabilia Sports Memorabilia Music including artwork Kitchenalia

Spinners Cafe Hot food & drinks, afternoon tea, light bites & cakes

The museum is dedicated to the history and memory of the Titanic and its significant impact on the people of Lancashire.

Vintage Jewellery & Clothing Artwork & Ornaments Retro Furniture Vintage Homeware

ith . Sm Mr J co.uk times.

A time to

remember

Save £££’s

...with our membership card!

Don’t miss out, apply for your membership card today!

ygone www.b

Bygone Times, Grove Mill, The Green, Eccleston, Lancashire PR7 5TZ

FREE ADMISSION INTO THE MUSEUM

We’re open 10:00am - 5:30pm, 7 days a week Call us today on: 01257 451889 enquiries@bygonetimes.co.uk www.bygonetimes.co.uk

Featuring over 40 unique shops & businesses which includes a leading art gallery, high class butchers, florist & plant centre, craft studios, food shops, ladies & gents clothing, gifts with a difference, handbags & Jewellery, hair & beauty, Fredericks ice cream, The Crafty Potter Craft Cafe and much more…

FINE ART Winners of Retail Art Gallery of the Year 2016

Go on, Treat Yourself.

The Two Birds Tea Room makes an excellent stop for lunch offering paninis, toasties, sandwiches, soups & salads and daily specials using fresh local produce and produce from within the centre where possible!

Relax next to our wood burning stove in Winter or our patio area in Summer, enjoy great coffee, wine & beers and a catch up with friends.

Our Farmers Market and Craft Centre opened in Spring 2010 to bring you the finest produce. We’re located near Park Hall, Camelot near Chorley, Lancashire.

Just minutes from J27 of the M6.

Jewels May is a gorgeous independent jewellers shop nestled amongst 50 small rural retail businesses in Heskin Farmers Market and Craft Centre.This little treasure trove of sparkle boasts an amazing collection of antique, vintage and modern precious luxury jewellery items.The owner has a passion for old cut diamonds and precious stones in amazing unique settings, and the shop also specialises in pre-owned luxury watches.

Heskin Farmers Market and Craft Centre location offers easy access from most Lancashire towns and cities including Preston, Bolton, Southport, Liverpool and Manchester. With free parking and free entry, we’re a perfect destination if you are looking for an shopping day out in Lancashire.

We now have an online shop and downloadable app to make shopping with us that much easier!

www.shopheskinfarmersmarket.co.uk

Opening Times Monday - CLOSED Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday 10.30am - 4.30pm

Treat yourself...

To Jewels May

(Bank Holiday Mondays 11am – 4pm) Christmas Opening Times May Vary

Wood Lane, Heskin,Chorley, Lancashire, PR7 5PA Tel: 07599 831907 info@heskinfarmersmarket.co.uk www.heskinfarmersmarket.co.uk

32 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Tel: 01257 451121 E-mail sales@hepplestonefineart.com Web: www.hepplestonefineart.com

Heskin Farmers Market & Craft Centre, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley PR7 5PA T: 01257 450 448 E: info@jewelsmay.com

www.jewelsmay.com

OUT & ABOUT

Stressless • • • • • • • • •

No Hands Massage Shellac Nails Aromatherapy Reflexology Massage Hot Stone Therapy Beauty Treatments Pamper Packages & Much More...

Holistic & Beauty Treatment Room T: 01257 450812 M: 07712832286

Email: shirley@stresslessinlancs.co.uk

www.stresslessinlancs.co.uk

The quirky, independent cake decoration, kitchen & baking supplies shop for the amateur, hobby or professional baker.

10% OFF

/BAKE @bakeatheskin #bakeheskin T: 01257 453767 E: enquiries@bake-store.co.uk

ALL PURCHASES WHEN PRESENTING THIS ADVERT In conjunction with 50 Plus Magazine. Valid until 31/10/16

Traditional food and drink served in a warm and friendly atmosphere Situated next to The Crafty Potter Studio Also visit The Black Olive our fantastic deli with foods from all over the world.

Blackstone Ad 90mm x 45mm.qxp_Layout 1 05/07/2016 21:24 Page 1

Exclusively designed handmade scarves, handbags & accessories The Farmers Market & Craft Centre, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 5PA. Tel:01257 452254, Email: sales@ishvari.co.uk Facebook: Ishvari by Renu Modha

Tues - Sat 10am - 5pm, Sunday 10.30am - 4.30pm, Monday closed except Bank Holidays

HESKIN

FARMERS MARKET QUALITY BUTCHERS In this day and age, it's important to know where your food comes from. Here at Heskin Hall Farms, all our beef & lamb is home-bred on our own farms with full traceability.

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK - MONDAY CLOSED

TUE,WED, THUR, FRI & SAT - 10am-5pm

SUN & BANK HOL - 11am-5pm

TEL: 01257 451817 WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 33

FOOD & DRINK JAMES MARTIN’S

HOME COMFORTS C h icken cor d on bleu It’s ham, cheese and chicken: that’s all. It’s a simple dish, but like many things in life, the simplest are the best. Cook the escalope in plenty of butter, not oil. By the time the butter is nut- brown, the chicken should be ready to turn over and cook on the other side. You need to allow the middle to become hot, to melt the cheese inside.

Serves 4 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts 175g Emmental cheese, cut into 8 chunks 4 good-quality thick ham slices 75g plain flour 3 eggs, lightly beaten 150g panko breadcrumbs sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 150g unsalted butter 300g French beans, trimmed 25g flaked almonds Cut the chicken breasts in half widthways nearly all the way through then open out to a heart shape.

Lay a large piece of clingfilm on a work surface, and place the chicken on top. Cover with another sheet of clingfilm and gently bat out with a rolling pin until about double the size and 1cm thick.

Remove the clingfilm and lay two pieces of cheese over one half of each chicken breast, then fold the ham on top. Fold the other half of the chicken over to enclose the cheese and ham, and press down lightly.

Place the flour, eggs and breadcrumbs in separate bowls, each big enough to take a chicken breast.

Season the flour and eggs with salt and pepper, then pass the chicken first through the flour, then the eggs, then the breadcrumbs, coating fully.

Put 125g of the butter into a large frying pan and set over a medium heat. When the butter is just melted, add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes on one side until the butter is golden brown, then turn and cook for another 4–5 minutes. Baste the chicken with the melted butter as it cooks, keeping it over a medium heat. You don’t want the butter or breadcrumbs to

34 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

burn, and you want the chicken to be cooked all the way through and the cheese melted.

Bring a pan of salted water to the boil. Add the beans and cook for 3–4 minutes until just tender, then drain. Put the pan back on the heat and add the last of the butter and the flaked almonds. Heat until the butter is melted, then toss the beans into the butter and warm through.

Season well.

Serve the chicken with the beans alongside.

FOOD & DRINK

O yster an d sea f oo d pie wit h samp h ire I don’t know that ‘posh’ is the right word for this really, as although it uses oysters and lobster, you can get hold of both of these easily nowadays. It does use a fair bit of champagne, but you can always use prosecco instead. The grated potatoes make a great topping – just give them a thorough squeeze to remove any excess water.

Serves 4–6 140g unsalted butter 2 heaped tablespoons plain flour 600ml double cream 350ml champagne sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 500g salmon, boneless and skinless, cut into chunks 400g smoked haddock, boneless and skinless, cut into chunks 1kg cooked lobster, shelled and cut into chunks 8 oysters, shucked 350g raw king prawns, shelled and deveined 100g samphire 1kg white potatoes, peeled and coarsely grated 3 egg yolks 200g frozen peas

Preheat the oven to 220°C/425°F/gas mark 7.

Put 75g of the butter into a saucepan and heat until melted, then add the flour and cook for 2 minutes until thickened and light golden-brown.

Add the cream gradually, whisking all the time, and cook until thickened and smooth. Pour the champagne in a steady stream into the sauce, still whisking all the time, until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, then season to taste with salt and pepper.

Place the salmon, smoked haddock, lobster, oysters, prawns and samphire in a large ovenproof dish. Pour the sauce over the top to coat everything.

Put the grated potato into a clean tea towel and squeeze all the liquid from it. Place in a bowl. Melt 50g of the remaining butter in a saucepan, then mix with the potato and egg yolks and plenty of salt and black pepper.

Sprinkle over the top of the fish, then place on a baking sheet in the oven and bake for 30 minutes until golden and hot through.

Bring a pan of salted water to the boil, add the peas and cook for 2–3 minutes until tender. Drain and return to the pan, add the remaining butter and season to taste. Serve with the fish pie.

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| 35

FOOD & DRINK

Your perfect recipe needs top quality ingredients...

E nglis h apricot an d almon d bake When you make the frangipane, make sure to mix the butter and sugar together until they are white, and then fold in the flour by hand to help keep it as light as possible. It’s best not to keep the bake in the fridge, as the butter will harden up – if you have to, warm it through in a low oven before serving.

Makes 15 pieces 375g shop-bought sweet pastry 200g unsalted butter, softened 200g caster sugar 3 large eggs 200g plain flour 125g ground almonds 1⁄2 teaspoon baking powder 150g apricot jam 8 fresh apricots, stoned and quartered Preheat the oven to 170°C/325°F/gas mark 3. Grease and line a 30 x 23cm traybake tin.

Roll out the pastry to 5mm thick and about 2cm larger than your tin. Roll it onto the rolling pin, then roll it over the tin. Press gently into the corners, then trim the excess from the edges. Place in the fridge while you make the filling.

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!

Place the butter and sugar in a food mixer or a large bowl, and beat for 5 minutes until light and fluffy, then beat in the eggs one at a time. Remove from the mixer and fold in the flour, ground almonds and baking powder.

Cover the pastry with the apricot jam, then spoon over the filling and smooth out to the edges. Lay the apricot halves gently on top, in rows, and bake for 35–40 minutes until golden-brown and risen. A skewer inserted into the centre of the cake should come out clean; if it doesn’t, return it to the oven for a further 5 minutes and repeat.

Leave the cake to cool in the tin, then cut into rectangles to serve.

Bury Market Tel: 0161 253 6520

: @BuryMarket

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

36 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

More Home Comforts by James Martin (Quadrille £20) Photography: Peter Cassidy

e perfect getaway in the Lancashire countryside The Seafood Pub Company’s elegant, country accommodation is complemented by quality, creative menus served in comfortable surroundings. Offering four perfect destinations for a relaxing weekend break, or a base for exploring the area’s stunning countryside.

Complimentary bottle of Prosecco for any bedroom booking or when dining you can enjoy a complimentary glass of Prosecco with every main course. Quote 50plus.

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| 37

Holiday Home Ownership

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Be part of the warm welcome on offer at The Mill, St Catherine's Park Volunteers needed at this cosy café near Preston.

When Helen Brocki retired from her job as deputy principal at Lancashire College, she was keen to find another challenge to keep her busy and motivated throughout the working week.

She knew about the good work of St Catherine's Hospice in Lostock Hall, near Preston, and went online to find out about volunteering opportunities.

After hearing about the charity's latest venture at The Mill - a café and community hub within the grounds of St Catherine's Park - she signed up as a volunteer café assistant.

Since then she has never looked back, and enjoys giving her time each week to support the work of the social enterprise the profits from which are used to support the specialised care of the hospice.

The Mill is now recruiting new volunteer café assistants to help them continue their important work and Helen said she would wholeheartedly recommend it.

"I love volunteering here – it’s a lot more relaxed than working, but it also gives me a structure to my week," she said.

“When I retired, I needed something to keep me busy, I knew about St Catherine's Hospice and the great work they do, so I just looked on the internet to see what was available. I like coming here because I’m meeting customers and working with many different people. I’ve caught up with old friends here and have made many new friends too.”

Volunteer café assistants play a vital role at The Mill, assisting with everything from preparing and serving food and drink to clearing tables and cleaning, all whilst providing welcoming and friendly customer service.

The café prides itself on serving locally sourced, seasonal produce, covering everything from coffee and cake to full meals and deliciously decadent afternoon teas.

The latter features finger sandwiches filled with the finest regional produce - from Mrs Kirkham's Lancashire cheese to Brendan Anderton of Longridge's gammon-style ham - bite-sized quiche of the day, and The Mill chicken liver pate en croute - and that's just the savoury selection.

Freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and preserves, and a selection of indulgent desserts that almost look too good to eat, all topped off with a pot of St Catherine's Blend tea (or coffee), make for a wonderful afternoon treat. And the best bit is that it can all be enjoyed guilt free because the profits are used to support St Catherine's Hospice.

VOLUNTEER CAFÉ ASSISTANT HELEN BROCKI AFTERNOON TEA, THE MILL STYLE

Along with the café, The Mill is a vibrant community hub which offers a host of activities covering everything from yoga and pilates to painting workshops and drop-in advice sessions from its upstairs rooms. Meanwhile, special occasions can be also catered for in The Mill Café which is available to hire in the evenings for private functions, or through The Mill Outside - the outside catering arm of the operation. They can bring a taste of The Mill to you by catering for events such as weddings, Christenings and funeral receptions.

Nicola Hanmer, commercial catering manager, said: "The Mill is a wonderful community project working on many different levels to raise vital funds.

It's a fantastic team to be part of and we'd love to hear from people who are interested in getting involved, having some fun and helping to make a difference."

If you are interested in finding out more about volunteering at The Mill call Minaxi Panchal on 01772 629171 or email themill@ stcatherinespark.co.uk.

The Mill, St Catherine's Park, Lostock Lane, Lostock Hall, Preston, PR5 5XU.

Tel: 01772 695277 | www.themillatstcatherinespark.co.uk The Mill, St Catherine's Park

@TheMillPre

To apply online visit www. themillatstcatherinespark. co.uk. Full training is provided.

Afternoon tea costs £14 per person advance booking required.

What will be?

What will youryour legacylegacy be?

Leaving a gift in your Will ensures we can continue our work giving shelter to over 1,000 animals each year.

We depend totally on the generosity of our supporters.

ANIMAL CARE has a long history in the Lancaster & Morecambe area so by remembering us in your Will you are supporting a local charity in a lasting way.

About Baxter...

Poor Baxter is our longest resident at Animal Care and has been waiting for a chance for over 2 years!! Baxter has his issues but nothing that cant be worked on with the right owner. Baxter's ideal owner needs to be physically fit and able to control him on lead as he is a strong boy! (Baxter is a staffie cross Labrador so has a strong build and loves to walk miles.)

Labra They need to be able to give Baxter time to dor cr os settle into his new home as 2 years is a long 9 years s , Male , time to be in kennels. He needs to be the only old animal in his new home as he is not a fan of other dogs and he can become very vocal when he sees another dog on lead. The staff all love Baxter he gives the best cuddles and loves to struggle up on your lap we really believe that his owner is out there somewhere. Please get in touch if you think you could be Baxter's super star. Š Image by Sarapetphotography.co.uk ANIMAL CARE is a small rehoming centre helping stray, unwanted and ill treated animals until caring new homes can be found for them.

Registered Charity No. 508819

Animal Care

(Lancaster, Morecambe and District)

Blea Tarn Road, Scotforth, Lancaster, LA2 ORD | Telephone: 01524 65495 | Fax: 01524 841819 Email: rehoming@animalcare-lancaster.co.uk | www.animalcare-lancaster.co.uk

40 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

10, Captain French Lane, Kendal LA9 4HP Telephone 01539 720820.

Email info@crossbankdental.com WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 41

HEALTH

Quality dentures mean a quality lifestyle The Importance of Dentures The eyes, nose and teeth are the focal points of every face; they give the first impressions of your personality.

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

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

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

Choice of Dentures There are four main quality standards in denture materials.

The denture base (gum coloured on which the denture teeth sit).

42 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

• • • • •

Standard Quality High Impact Acrylics (much stronger) Injection Pressure Formed (Premium Denture Base) Flexible (Partial Dentures) Metal Denture

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

The Denture Teeth

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

Of course, the materials alone will not make a good denture. In the hands of a skillful and experienced Clinical Dental Technician the best results are achieved.

Have your dentures inspected by a Clinical Dental Technician at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.

A range of quality teeth are available.

Dentures Need Regular Servicing Dentures are in constant use almost 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

They are also in a pretty hostile environment in the mouth, being attacked by strong acid, bacteria, hot, cold and spicy food. Denture material absorbs liquids and food odour.

Daily cleaning is essential as well as

Your Dentures need Attention 1. When they become loose.

2. When teeth or denture base discolours.

3. When tooth surfaces become flat.

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

5. When you develop deep lines around your mouth.

6. When your chin sticks out, and the

HEALTH corners of your lips are constantly wet, developing sores.

7. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.

My Dentures have become loose!

This is easily remedied by a procedure know as Re-lining. A new layer of Denture base is added to your existing Denture, improving the fit and restoring confidence.

Dentures with worn down teeth Teeth excessively worn, require a new set of dentures.

Dentures on Implants

This type of Denture is constructed in conjunction with the Dental Implant Surgeon. This is a very good procedure when the patient has limited control and retention of their Dentures. The finished Dentures ‘click’ into position offering the ultimate in Denture Retention.

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

Should I have a spare set of Dentures made?

visual and artistic judgement.

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

Denture construction is more art than science.

What is a Clinical Dental Technician?

Difficulties in Constructing a Good Set of Dentures

Professional Clinical Dental Technicians are members of the Dental Health Care Team. They have undergone specific training and education in the skills and knowledge necessary to provide a removable appliance service directly to the community.

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

Equipped with solid technical training as a Dental Technician - plus posttechnician training in sciences, clinical skills, and interpersonal skills - the Clinical Dental Technician can design, create, construct and modify (repair and rebase) removable appliances to ensure optimal fit, maximum comfort and general well-being of patients.

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

These skills enable the Clinical Dental Technician, whilst remaining a member of the Dental Health Care Team, to work independently of other Dental Health Care providers.

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

LEYLAND DENTURE CENTRE for your next quality denture

• Qualified Clinical Dental Technicians • New Dentures and Relines • Dental Repairs • Free Consultations

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| 43

d n a r e r i a F e s ’ l t b a i x h t re Fle mo

A better way for over 50s insurance Please send me a free information pack

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THE MOBILITY CENTRE @ LLG Wheelchairs Ltd

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| 47

PETER FROSDICK Presents by arrangement with MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL (Europe) Ltd.

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