Refreshments available whilst travelling on our coaches, our door to door service makes it a relaxing holiday from start to end, two staff are with you on the journey, to ensure that we are….”Taking you There, with Staff that Really Care”
Full Steam Ahead
Monday 14th April to Friday 18th April 2025
What’s included: 4 night’s hotel accommodation with breakfasts & evening meals
Entrance & Excursions to: Bure Valley Steam Railway, Southern Comfort Paddle Steam, Great Yarmouth, North Norfolk Steam Railway, Holkham Hall.
Porterage • Door-to-door-service • Spaces available
(Single supplement £143)
£460 per person
Sidmouth, Jurassic Coast
Monday 21st April to Friday 25th April 2025
What’s included: 4 night’s hotel accommodation with breakfasts & evening meals
Entrance & Excursions to: Exmouth, Jurassic Coast boat ride, Weymouth.
Porterage • Door-to-door-service • Spaces available
(Single supplement £0)
A Transport Delight
Thursday 1st May to Monday 5th May 2025
What’s included: 4 night’s hotel accommodation with breakfasts & evening meals
Entrance & Excursions to: Beaulieu Motor Museum, Watercress Line on Steam Railway, Brooklands Museum, London Bus Museum
Porterage • Door-to-door-service • Spaces available
(Single supplement £100)
A River Ride & An RHS Garden
Thursday 8th May to Monday 12th May 2025
What’s included: 4 night’s hotel accommodation with breakfasts & evening meals
Entrance & Excursions to: RHS Wisley Gardens, Thames River Boat Cruise, Runnymeade (National Trust).
Porterage • Door-to-door-service • Spaces available
(Single supplement £160)
£455 per person £495 per person
Elegant Eastbourne
Monday 19th May to Friday 23rd May 2025
What’s included: 4 night’s hotel accommodation with breakfasts & evening meals
Entrance & Excursions to: - At LeisureKindly Note: Our Reeves Coach Holidays representative is on site if assistance is required during your stay.
Porterage • Door-to-door-service • Spaces available (Single supplement £95)
A Peak of Treats
Thursday 5th June to Monday 9th June 2025
What’s included: 4 night’s half-board hotel accommodation.
Entrance & Excursions to: River Derwent Narrow Boat Cruise, Cromfor Mills, Denby Pottery Village, Kedleston Hall, Great British Car Journey Museum, Crich Tramway Museum.
Porterage • Door-to-door-service • Spaces available
The National Breast Screening Programme invites all women aged between 50 – 70 every 3 years for a mammogram. Each GP Practice is screened in turn and all women registered with a GP will receive an invitation
What happens when I reach 71?
Women over the age of 71 will not be sent an appointment automatically but they can self-refer for a mammogram every 3 years by contacting us.
What is breast screening?
Breast screening (or mammography) is an x-ray of the breast that is used to find any changes in the breast tissue that could be cancer, so they can be investigated early
South Lancashire Breast
Screening is your local service , covering Wigan, West Lancs and Chorley and South Ribble
0300 707 5899
bsuappointments@wwl.nhs.uk
www.wwl.nhs.uk/specialities/breast_screening
South Lancashire Breast Screening Unit
Why do I need to be screened?
1 in 7 women in the UK will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point during their lives. Breast cancer is now the most common cause of cancer in women in this country.
Early detection saves lives
Most breast changes will not be cancer, but if cancer is found, the treatment needed will often be less intense and the chance of making a full recovery is much higher.
The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chances of survival
TWITTERING ON
By Angela Kelly - because x’ing on doesn’t
sound quite the same
Thirty years of Lottery fun – and heartbreak
AMAZINGLY, it’s 30 years ago since the National Lottery first began and we all began drawing up wish-lists.
Tickets went on sale for the first time in 1994 and the first of the new breed of Lottery millionaires began to be created.
The “It could be you” slogan with the fingers crossed artwork became the symbol of all our dreams of winning big and living well. But, as most people now realise, winning six or seven figures out of the blue hasn’t all proved plain sailing.
The National Lottery may have handed out more than £95 billion in prizes since 1994, with an additional £49 billion raised for thousands of charities, but there has been heartbeak along with the winners’ cash.
While some lucky winners have continued to enjoy their new luxury lifestyle others have found it hard to adapt.
Inevitably, a large, well-publicised win has brought unwelcome attention from people wanting a part of their cash and some winners have found it hard to distinguish between real friendships and scammers.
Others saw long-term relationships smashed and families divided by the win. Some winners were drawn to unwise investments from “false” friends and advisers which saw their money quickly depleted. In fact, losing it all has not been an uncommon story.
Of course, amid all these negative stories are heartwarming tales of people sharing their winnings with family, friends and their own community.
In fact, some of the happiest and most positive Lottery stories have included a major element of giving away thousands of pounds to others.
Lives have been transformed, good carried out in the community and positive results still making a difference to many.
I wouldn’t know about this kind of transformation because my husband and I had a massive row about the Lottery in late 1994.
We had just decided on a set of numbers (mostly birthdays and other special dates) and been trying it out for a few weeks with much excitement on the Lottery day as numbers were drawn and the whole process unfolded.
Then we actually discussed just what we would do if we became Lottery millionaires, what we would spend our cash on – and that’s when the Big Row took place.
I insisted that we give away a percentage to charity and my husband felt this should only go to organisations that made the money work for them to assure their future.
Frankly, it was a stupid row and I regret it. Unfortunately, it meant that we never played the Lottery again. Now, it could never be me – which is a bit of a relief, actually!
Why more men are flocking to Lidl’s middle aisle
THIS may not be news to many households today but more men than ever are flocking to buy from the middle aisle at Lidl.
The famous German supermarket chain made a very shrewd move when it began offering quirky items in its middle aisles. And when I say “quirky” I mean everything from power tools to canoes and even flamethrowers.
UK Lidl boss Ryan McDonnell said that the chain’s centre rows had a “big male following” and had become synonymous with grabbing must-have purchases. Quite often, even when customers originally go to the store for something quite different.
This obviously works as Lidl has just confirmed a pre-tax profit of £43 million in 2023/24 compared to a loss of £76m the previous year.
While the middle aisle sales are obviously not the only reason for the discount chain’s success, Mr McDonnell does believe that it has become a talking point and attracted more male shoppers.
Interestingly, the middle aisle items are not necessarily very cheap. Who could get through life without a Yamaha Seascooter? A steal at £400.
Other shoppers have been perfectly delighted to buy a two-man canoe and one shopper reportedly bought a gazebo when “I only went in there for some sausages.”
Ice spikes that attach to shoes, a cement mixer, electric hoist, snack helmet and an inflatable hot tub are among other unusual items on offer in the middle aisle.
So if you ever need a welding helmet, a microwave potato cooker or a UV phone sanitizer, well you know where one could be waiting for you.
Sort out that fridge!
WHAT does the inside of your fridge look like? Is it beautifully organized into containers or is there a free-for-all on view?
Could you happily throw open the door to your fridge to a visitor and be sure they’d be impressed?
As someone who can answer a resounding “no” to that last one, it was good to read that consumer magazine Which? has revealed the correct spot for every single item in your fridge.
That includes raw meat, leftovers and condiments. Yes, the debate about where the ketchup should go in the kitchen is finally over.
As well as making your fridge look good, storing food and other items properly helps ensure you and your guests don’t get food poisoning.
Basically, the top shelf is for cured meats, leftovers and cream cakes. The middle shelf is for milk, eggs, cheese, butter and yoghurt and the bottom shelf is for raw meat, chicken and fish.
The drawers should contain fruits and vegetables and the door rack items like maple syrup, mayonnaise, pesto, salad cream and tartare sauce.
Which? says you shouldn’t store cucumbers, bread, tomatoes, mustard, mint sauce, pickle, mango chutney, chilli sauce OR ketchup in the fridge.
If, like me, you’re inclined to chuck food into the fridge where there’s a space, stop right now because we need to pay more attention to the whole subject.
The magazine insists that “no matter how accurate your thermostat is, the temperature in your fridge will still vary between shelves.
“It’s best to think of your thermostat temperature as an average for the fridge because, as a general rule, the higher the shelf, the higher the temperature will be.”
Make storage boxes your friend and, basically, have a plan.
or email: help@aamail.org
When it comes to inviting, relaxing breaks, we have the ideal holiday for you...
Whether you’re looking for a romantic break for two, a family holiday or getting away with friends, Daish’s Holidays offers 12 hotels in 10 of the most popular UK destinations. Our fleet of 35 luxury coaches provide return travel in comfort and style from your pick up point and will take you directly to your hotel, aiming to arrive between 3 – 5pm.
If you’d like to get out and about to explore the local area on your holiday, then all of our breaks can also be booked on a self-drive basis so you’ve got the freedom of having your own car.
Trip Advisor’s Travellers’ Choice
We are proud to announce that five of our group – Somerset, Imperial, Daish’s, Devonshire, County – have been awarded the coveted TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice award for 2024.
Local pick up points make it easy to get away.
Price includes return coach travel from:
BB: Clitheroe, Whalley, Great Harwood, Rishton, Blackburn, Darwen Services
All offers are subject to availability and standard terms and conditions (see brochure or website for T&C’s).
with sole occupancy. Optional local excursions can be booked at the hotel. Many more coach or self-drive holiday dates available in 2024. If you would prefer to self-drive, deduct £20 per person from prices shown. Offer ends 15th March 2025
Daish’s
Enjoying the great outdoors in Lake Tahoe
If you go down to the woods today, you’re sure of a big surprise….!
A rustle amongst the woodland undergrowth and a dark shadow revealed itself as a large four-legged mass of fur, in the form of a bear. Sauntering slothly, it crossed the cycle path metres away from me and headed for the water near a little place called Pope. I watched in stillness and trepidation, my heartbeat at a heightened pace. Yet, in silent excitement, this was one experience I had dreamed of – seeing a bear - a real one - and it was on my travel bucket list!
I was exploring Lake Tahoe, a destination on the border of California and Nevada and just a two-hour drive from Sacramento, the state capital. Lake Tahoe is the largest freshwater alpine lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in North America, and one of the purest in the world. Said to be over two million years old, this ancient lake is counted among the 20 oldest lakes in the world.
About two-thirds of it lies in California, the remainder extending into Nevada. It measures 21.2 miles north to south and its width reaches 11.9 miles at its widest. And with a depth of 1,645 feet, Lake Tahoe is the second deepest in the US and sits at the dizzy heights of 6,225 ft above sea level. Experts say it won’t freeze because of its depth but it’s advised to avoid a plunge as it is dangerously cold and can literally take your breath away.
Emerald Bay
Lake Tahoe is renowned for its beaches and ski resorts but for me the scenery was the top attraction. Emerald Bay is its crown jewel on the west shore which had me spellbound with its enriching colours shimmering in the sun, shades and tones dazzling on its
surface, mirrored with mountain reflections. It was a stunning vista providing a water colour canvas in a palette of blues and greens which changed according to the water’s depth.
Outdoor activities
For those interested in kayaking, Lake Tahoe is a treat. Here the kayaks are clear providing viewing of up to 75 feet below the surface. The guided tours navigate a path less travelled to experience hidden coves, towering cliffs fringing the shoreline, as well as the geological rock formations which display the history and origins of Lake Tahoe. Tours also take place at night benefiting from the moonlight on the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the stars above.
Heavenly Gondola
Other activities included scenic hiking in Van Sickle Bi-State Park and mountain biking along trails snaking above the lake, overnight backpacking expeditions and snowshoe tours.
Emerald Bay State Park
Emerald Bay State Park is a national natural landmark, 12 miles north of the town of South Lake Tahoe. The park features Eagle Falls and is also the setting for one of the first summer homes built at Lake Tahoe. Vikingsholm, known as the hidden castle, is located at the head of Emerald Bay and is one of the most photographed spots in the United States. This attractive structure, now a national and California landmark, is considered one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture outside of the Nordic countries. The land on which Vikingsholm was built includes 232 acres of Tahoe’s most beautiful vistas and the only island in Lake Tahoe, Fannette Island, which was home to the owner’s teahouse.
Heavenly Village
I stayed in South Lake Tahoe on the California side in the pedestrianfriendly Heavenly Village, a bustling place with restaurants, shops, bars, live outdoor music and even an axe-throwing venue. Here, it’s a 2.4 mile journey to Heavenly Mountain on the Heavenly Gondola, which runs almost year-round to enjoy the panoramic views of the Lake.
Seen on screen
The natural beauty of Lake Tahoe’s dramatic views and sunsets, its mountain peaks and vast expanse of water have been captured on screen in many movies. These have included The Bodyguard, City of Angels, Top Gun Maverick, Carsen City and The Godfather.
Other creatures in Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe provided me with my first sighting of a bear amongst its pictorial cocktail of natural beauty. But there is a rumour of another creature – the Tahoe Tessie. Back in the 1800s, the Washoe and Paiute tribes believed this creature lived in the underwater tunnel beneath Cave Rock. Even today the Tahoe Tessie is still believed to exist and has become a popular icon so if you go down to the woods in Lake Tahoe, you may have a big surprise!
Next steps
To plan and book your holiday to California and Lake Tahoe, call Silver Travel Advisor on 0800 412 5678. For more ideas and inspiration visit silvertraveladvisor.com/north-america
Bolton Market
Emerald Bay
Established in 2016 we offer fantastic holidays in the UK and across Europe. With fabulous excursions, quality hotel accommodation, executive coaches and top class tour drivers, a trip with AVA Travel is one to remember! We also have a huge selection of UK day trips to suit every traveller. AVA are committed to making the whole process of taking a holiday with us as easy and pain free as possible.
OVER 200 HOLIDAYS AND SHORT BREAKS TO CHOOSE FROM!
VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR CALL OUR FRIENDLY TEAM TO ORDER YOUR FREE BROCHURE TODAY!
Join us as we head to Wallonia as the Belgium carnival calendar starts with one of the oldest, most unique folklore carnivals in the world.
Tour Details:
The historic walled city of Binche comes alive during its UNESCO-recognized carnival, a timeless tradition with vibrant costumes, wax masks, wooden clogs, and music dating back to pagan times. Experience the Shrove Tuesday parade, where Gilles throw oranges into the crowd for good luck! A tour not to be missed, and a great way to
01.03.25
Join in the celebrations in Enniscorthy our resort, soak up the atmosphere and enter into the party spirit in this beautiful area of Ireland, along with friendly locals, you won’t fail to make lasting holiday memories
Tour Details:
FIVE DAYS FROM£665
Explore the vibrant town of Wexford with colourful streets and riverside charm, & uncover the history of New Ross on the River Barrow. Visit the Irish National Stud during the magical foaling season and wander its renowned Japanese Gardens.
Join us as we head to the Ava Travel favourite resort of Llandudno.
Join us as we head to Wallonia as the Belgium carnival calendar starts with one of the oldest, most unique folklore carnivals in the world.
Tour Details:
Tour Details:
The historic walled city of Binche comes alive during its UNESCO-recognized carnival, a timeless tradition with vibrant costumes, wax masks, wooden clogs, and music dating back to pagan times. Experience the Shrove Tuesday parade, where Gilles throw oranges into the crowd for good luck! A tour not to be missed, and a great way to start 2025!
Enjoy free time in the charming Victorian seaside resort, comple mented by excursions to Bangor, with stunning views over the Menai Strait, and a scenic journey through Snowdonia National Park. Discover breathtaking peaks, serene lakes, and beautiful towns and villages steeped in history and culture. Don’t miss this fantastic North Wales adventure!
Room Supplement £146
Join us as we head to the Ava Travel favourite resort of Llandudno.
Tour Details:
Enjoy free time in the charming Victorian seaside resort, complemented by excursions to Bangor, with stunning views over the Menai Strait, and a scenic journey through Snowdonia National Park.
Join us as we head to Warner’s Littlecote House for an enjoya ble stay in a beautiful Tudor mansion located in the rolling hills of the Wiltshire country side
Tour Details:
Join in the celebrations in Enniscorthy our resort, soak up the atmosphere and enter into the party spirit in this beautiful area of Ireland, along with friendly locals, you won’t fail to make lasting holiday memories
Discover breathtaking peaks, serene lakes, and beautiful towns and villages steeped in history and culture. Don’t miss this fantastic North Wales adventure!
03.02.25
Join us as we head to Warner’s Littlecote House for an enjoyable stay in a beautiful Tudor mansion located in the rolling hills of the Wiltshire countryside
Tour Details:
Enjoy leisure time and evening entertainment at our wonderful hotel. Visit Bradford-on-Avon, the charming market town of Marlborough in the North Wessex Downs, and picturesque Malmesbury, the gateway to the Cotswolds and England’s oldest borough. Take a scenic drive through the beautiful Marlborough Downs, soaking in the countryside charm.
Tour Details: Explore the vibrant town of Wexford with colourful streets and riverside charm, & uncover the history of New Ross on the River Barrow. Visit the Irish National Stud during the magical foaling season and wander its renowned Japanese Gardens.
DEPARTS 16.03.25
Single Room Supplement £100
Enjoy leisure time and evening entertainment at our wonderful hotel. Visit Bradford-on-Avon, the charming market town of Marlborough in the North Wessex Downs, and picturesque Malmesbury, the gateway to the Cotswolds and England’s oldest borough. Take a scenic drive through the beautiful Marlborough Downs, soaking in the countryside charm.
DEPARTS 17.03.25
Single Room Supplement £NIL
GRAHAM NORTON chat show host extraordinaire
HE became a quirky favourite as a priest in three episodes of cult TV series Father Ted and has been the quick-witted, sharp-tongued host of the Eurovision Song Contest since 2009.
But it’s fair to say that Graham Norton is really the chat show host all others are measured against for so many years; he has definitely made the genre his own.
And the fact that this kind of accolade is exactly something the popular Irishman would immediately take the rip out of tells you something of who Graham Norton really is.
Born in County Cork as Graham Walker, his childhood was spent in a variety of towns throughout Ireland as his father’s job (a sales’ representative for Guinness) meant the family moved frequently.
Educated at Bandon Grammar School and then University College Cork, Graham spent two years at the latter studying English and French in the 1980s. He didn’t complete his studies, though, but did receive an honorary doctorate from the University in 2013.
In 1983, he travelled to San Francisco where he lived for a year in the Stardance hippie commune house and worked as a waiter. In the late 1980s, he moved to London to attend the Central School of Speech and Drama.
When he joined the actors’ union Equity, he chose his grandmother’s maiden name as his new surname as there was already a comic actor called Graham Walker.
His first appearance in UK broadcasting was as a regular comedian and panellist on BBC Radio 4 show Loose Ends in the early 1990s. He went on to work for Channel 5, winning an award as stand-in host of a late-night TV talk show.
This was followed by a comic quiz show on Channel 5 called Bring Me The Head of Light Entertainment which, although not a critical success, enhanced Graham’s already growing reputation as a comic and host.
In 1996, he co-hosted late-night quiz show Carnal Knowledge on ITV and in 1996 appeared as Father Noel Furlong in Father Ted. After this early success, Graham moved to Channel 4 to host his own chat shows including the weekly So Graham Norton until 2002, followed by V Graham Norton.
The camp and flamboyant entertainer became a firm favourite with TV audiences and in 2004 he was named “the most powerful person in TV comedy” by the Radio Times.
That Summer, Graham tried out his talents on American audiences when he showcased The Graham Norton Effect on Comedy Central. This was also broadcast in the UK on BBC Three.
It was in the UK, however, that Graham became show host supremo. It started in 2001 on the BBC when he hosted Comic
Relief, then in 2005 he began hosting Strictly Dance Fever on BBC 1. At the same time, he also started a new chat show, Graham Norton’s Bigger Picture.
Interestingly, he also read stories on the BBC children’s channel CBeebies as part of Bedtime Hour!
He hosted “search for a star” type series to find new show leads for The Sound of Music, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Oliver! and The Wizard of Oz.
But it was when The Graham Norton Show began in 2007 on BBC2 that he anchored himself in the public consciousness as a top entertainer.
In 2009, the show moved to BBC One in a new one-hour format and in May, 2010, he replaced Jonathan Ross’s Saturday morning slot on BBC Radio 2.
He was already no stranger to radio as his warm Irish brogue and clever witticisms beccame an integral part of the BBC Radio 4 panel show Just a Minute. He appeared in more than 100 episodes.
Graham joined Virgin Radio in 2021 and in 2023 co-hosted the final of the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool, beginning an association with Eurovision that has lasted.
Veteran, much-missed entertainer Terry Wogan had already established the gently mocking tone of presentation on the famous international event and Graham Norton cleverly continued the fun. In his career he has diversified into all areas of entertainment. This year, he returned to ITV to present a revival of Wheel of Fortune and his past c.v. includes featuring on music videos with Boyzone , Girls Aloud and Sugababes, making his West End stage debut in a revival of La Cage Aux Folles and hosting an American comedy game show.
He’s written an advice column for the Daily Telegraph, later turned into a book Ask Graham, written a successful novel called Holding about murder in an Irish rural community and released his own memoirs.
Life hasn’t always been plain sailing, however. In 1989 he was mugged, beaten up and stabbed by a group of attackers in London, lost half his blood and nearly died.
In spite of his genuine popularity and highly accomplished performances as a chat show host, he has a surprising appraisal of himself.
“I am really bad at actually interviewing people,” he reportedly stated. “My chat show really is a ‘chat’ show in that we do just
witter on because most questions you come up with you either know the answer to or are never going to be answered.
“It’s fine to have a show all about a guest if you’re talking to Bette Davis or Frank Sinatra but if you are talking to someone from Emmerdale – I mean, I am not that interested, are you?”
He believes that “for a long time we played catch-up with American chat shows but I think we have now overtaken them.
“In the end it’s obviously still one person talking to another on a sofa but we make a bigger effort here to differentiate our shows.”
Graham also feels “there’s a mistaken assumption that doing a chat show is easy, but it’s trickier than people assume. To be a good chat show host you have to want to be a chat show host, not just want to be on the telly.”
But whatever the winning format, it’s plain that Graham Norton, chat show host extraordinaire, has discovered it.
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intervention with dental implant placements was crucial in this case.”
Cathy adds: “My general dentist told me I needed to go and see Dr Usman and his team at Renovo for long-term permanent treatment. I plucked up the courage and went.”
THIS LEVEL OF DENTISTRY CHANGES PEOPLES’ LIVES
Following an X-ray and jaw scans, the news was not good for Cathy: “I have always looked after myself and losing my teeth was my idea of hell. It was a terrible shock. Usman said I wouldn’t like dentures but left the decision totally to me. He explained the procedure and reassured me it would be pain free, so I eventually made the decision and agreed to implants.”
Dr Riaz and the award-winning Renovo team set to work, beginning a detailed assessment of what could be done. In the lead up to the same-day, full upper and lower arch implants, Dr Riaz explained the
NEW BEGINNING…
A busy care worker has had her life transformed following pioneering same-day dental implant treatment carried out here in the Ribble Valley
Leading the way in UK implant technology is Lancashire-based Renovo Dental, which was one of the first implant centres in the country to adopt the highly successful, ground-breaking ‘Fully Guided Implant Surgery’ technique.
Highly experienced in this same-day procedure, implant surgeon Dr Usman Riaz and a specialist team, including in-house dental technicians, worked together using the latest digital technology to replace both upper and lower teeth permanently in just over three hours – omitting the need for dentures.
Despite following strict hygiene protocols and advice by her own dentist, Catherine’s gums and bone levels had deteriorated further, causing unsightly gaps in her teeth and several teeth became mobile.
“This is what end-stage gum disease looks like,” Dr Riaz explains. “Unfortunately, genetics were not in the patient’s favour. Typically, this sort of problem develops later in life, but Cathy is relatively young and her teeth were beyond saving.
“At this point, it is less about preserving teeth and all about using the remaining bone and soft tissue to help restore full function, aesthetics and confidence. Timing of the
procedure in detail to Cathy, who arrived at the state-of-the-art surgery in Chatburn, early in the morning.
“Usman and the team were fantastic. It’s not like going to the dentist, it’s like visiting a friend. They explained everything so I wasn’t at all nervous about the procedure. I had got to know them and it is obvious that they are experts in their field,” adds Cathy.
The team, including specialist periodontist Dr Khurrum Hussain along with a team of expert dental technicians, began work eliminating all sources of infection using state-of the-art laser technology, that eradicates over 99 per cent
of all harmful bacteria.
With gum contouring and bone grafts carried out on the same day, Cathy, under sedation, was painlessly fitted with a completely new set of upper and lower implant teeth in a procedure that has made Renovo Dental a flagship practice for this digital, full-arch implant technique.
During their years’ of experience, the team has refined the procedure utilising the latest in-house, digital CT-guided technology that ensures pinpoint accuracy.
This technique for implants is faster, easier and more efficient for the surgeons and safer, and more comfortable, for patients with faster healing times.
“It is Artificial Intelligence with a human touch,” explains Dr Riaz. “Our surgery protocol is a unique concept for digital guidance that allows us to plan and place dental implants with perfect accuracy. It eliminates human error.”
Cathy, who was delighted with the results, adds: “When I looked in the mirror and smiled it was unbelievable. I have always covered my
mouth when I smile because of my teeth.”
The transformation is astounding – Cathy now looks 20 years younger following the procedure and has gained immeasurable confidence: “My teeth look totally natural and I am thrilled!”
Speaking about the team at Renovo Dental, which was named the North of England’s Best Practice and Best Referral Practice at the prestigious Dentistry Awards, Cathy adds: “These guys are incredible. After years of avoiding having pictures taken, I’m incredibly grateful to Usman and his team for their hard work, dedication and patience. You really couldn’t be in safer hands. I now have a new lease of life and can’t stop smiling –thank-you!”
THESE GUYS ARE INCREDIBLE. I CAN’T STOP SMILING – THANK-YOU!
Dr Riaz, who is a highly experienced clinician specialising in aesthetic and implant dentistry, adds: “Obviously, perfect planning and preparation is key to this sort of specialist dentistry.
“The final implant teeth are all hand layered ceramic teeth, crafted by our specialist dental ceramists. We can make as many
changes as we like – to the shape, texture, character and vitality of the teeth. This is truly bespoke, customised dentistry.
“The implants feel like real teeth. In Cathy’s case it has turned back the clock and given her so much confidence. It really is life changing dentistry.” n
Renovo Dental Pendle House
Clitheroe Road Chatburn
Clitheroe BB7 4JY 01200 441000 renovodental.co.uk
@renovodental
SPOTLIGHT ON: ColourFence
Stephen Beaumont has established a thriving garden fencing business in the Northwest of the UK, recognized for its exceptional craftsmanship and customer service. A significant part of this success stems from Stephen’s dedication to delivering top-tier garden solutions, particularly through the installation of the acclaimed Colourfence brand. His team’s commitment to quality, precision, and customer satisfaction has earned them a stellar reputation among homeowners looking for long-lasting and aesthetically appealing fencing options.
At the heart of Stephen’s business is a philosophy centred around reliability and excellence. His team works closely with clients from the initial consultation to the completion of the project, ensuring that each fencing installation aligns with the customer’s vision and specifications. The team’s proficiency and the use of premium materials have made their installations a benchmark in the region. The main product line, Colourfence, has gained considerable popularity due to its unique attributes. Unlike traditional wooden fences, Colourfence is both durable and lightweight, available in five distinct colours that cater to diverse aesthetic preferences. The fencing comes with the option of decorative rails or trellis for a refined top-line finish, enhancing both the visual appeal and functionality of outdoor spaces.
Colourfence’s maintenance-free nature is a significant selling point, offering homeowners peace of mind and reducing the ongoing cost and effort associated with traditional fence maintenance. This durability, combined with its resistance to harsh weather conditions, positions Colourfence as a standout choice for clients seeking a long-term investment in their property. Stephen’s team is adept at
tailoring each project to the specific environment, ensuring that installations are sturdy, seamlessly integrated, and visually striking.
Customers frequently commend Stephen Beaumont and his team for their attention to detail, timeliness, and commitment to delivering projects on schedule. The team’s professionalism and the impressive quality of their work result in highly satisfied clients, many of whom are eager to share positive testimonials. These endorsements have fueled the business’s growth, establishing it as a trusted name in the garden fencing and outdoor solutions industry in the Northwest UK.
Beyond fencing, Stephen has diversified the business to offer a comprehensive range of garden and outdoor solutions. His team supplies and installs Deponti verandas and pergolas, which add stylish and functional sheltered areas perfect for relaxation and entertaining. These structures are designed to enhance any outdoor space with elegance and practicality, catering to the growing trend of extending indoor living spaces outdoors.
Additionally, the company provides VistaFolia artificial living walls and hedging, known for their lush, realistic appearance that requires no maintenance. These products are ideal for clients seeking to bring greenery into their gardens without the challenges of real plant care. The artificial walls offer both aesthetic value and the practical benefit of being usable in shaded or hard-to-grow areas.
Stephen’s company has also embraced innovation by incorporating Pent Haus garden rooms into their product range, offering clients multifunctional spaces that can serve as home offices, studios, or leisure rooms. To complement these garden rooms, Stephen recently added electric shutters to his catalog, providing an added layer of security and convenience.
This expansion into various garden solutions illustrates Stephen Beaumont’s forward-thinking approach and dedication to meeting customer needs. By consistently delivering exceptional results and expanding into complementary services, Stephen has positioned his business as a comprehensive provider of high-quality, maintenance-free outdoor living products, cementing its success and reputation in the Northwest UK.
Call Stephen on 07793437581 for advice and free no obligation quotation.
Preparing your property for sale
WHEN you’re looking to sell your home it’s important to take a long, hard look at it through the eyes of a prospective buyer.
Taking time to prepare your property for sale makes all kinds of sense but it doesn’t have to involve huge expense or big changes to your home. Sometimes, simple actions make all the difference to impressing others and allow you to achieve the best valuation for the property.
People need to be able to visualize how any building would look if they lived in it so the first rule is to DECLUTTER
Often, there is fabulous living space in a property that is hidden by people’s possessions. This doesn’t mean you have to make the property soulless – just keeping it personal but allowing a prospective buyer to see the possibilities for themselves clearly is enough.
Put items in storage, sell them or give them away to charity. The alternative is simply to get rid of unwanted items although these days even bulky furniture has a market.
Charities like the British Heart Foundation and Emmaus (and some local hospices) have a collection service for their own furniture shops so your unwanted item may well be able to help others.
How does your home look from the outside? One survey of more than 2,000 UK adults by YouGov showed that the most important features for real KERB APPEAL were well-maintained windows and a roof that was in good condition.
A pleasant and well-maintained front garden is bound to impress so cut back bushes and ensure pathways and fences are all in good order.
Keeping your home well-painted is another important way to have positive kerb appeal. Research shows that buyers make up their minds about a property within the first few minutes of arriving there so make that initial impression count.
Could your walls – especially in the hall and lounge –do with a fresh coat of paint to make them look better and give a feeling of light and space?
Before any prospective buyers arrive, go around your house checking for any MINOR REPAIRS that you can make. These might be broken door knobs, threadbare carpets or chipped paint. Addressing these can all make that initial impression positive.
Make sure your home SMELLS nice. Cooking smells, faulty drains or full bins can give rooms an odour that will definitely not impressive visitors.
Address areas like faulty drains properly, ensure cleanliness in all rooms (especially bedrooms where grimy bedsheets will definitely NOT show off the room to its best advantage). Lighting candles is one way to give rooms a pleasant smell but be careful not to make the odour too heavy as this can work against the effect.
Give your home a really good CLEAN UP. Pay particular attention to the kitchen, where grease spots could gather around the hob, and to the bathroom where grouting may be chipped or stained.
Put out fresh towels in the bathroom, in cloakrooms or near sinks and ensure the whole house smells fresh. Put away toiletries, clean shower doors and keep the toilet seat down.
Be honest about whether a few minor IMPROVEMENTS could make your home look considerably better. The kitchen is one of the main places which “sell” a home to a buyer but rather than invest in new units it may be worthwhile having new doors and surfaces as a cheaper option.
Clear away items like utensils and the washing up so that the clean lines of your kitchen are plain to see and remove any large appliances that you’re not using. Open surfaces make kitchens look bigger and, again, allow individuals to imagine their own lifestyle there.
If you have an open fire in any of the main rooms and you are seeing prospective buyers in the colder months, light a fire. This not only raises the room temperature attractively but also gives the room a cosy glow – another plus for visitors to absorb.
Pay attention to the WINDOWS throughout the property. Are there any “blown” double-glazed windows that could be fixed relatively cheaply?
Do you have windows without either blinds or curtains? Leaving them bare can give a cold feel to a room which can easily be remedied with some cheerful curtains or a modern blind.
Millennium Blinds have a huge range to choose from and are a family run business for over 23 years.
Plants and flowers add a homely feeling to any room and can add a splash of colour or greenery. A fruit bowl can add a similar touch.
If you have any dark areas – like in the hallway – consider buying a new mirror or two to open up areas where natural light is reduced. Clever use of mirrors in any room can make it look bigger and lighter.
If you have a favourite but now rather worn sofa or comfy chairs, putting on a bright throw in shades to tone in with a room can add to the appeal. New cushion covers in the same colours also add to the overall impression and don’t cost a fortune.
Of course if you are planning to move, it may be that you’d like to invest in new furniture beforehand. A smart, well-appointed lounge is a definite plus for anyone wanting to sell a property.
If you have pets, tidy away any pet items like feeding bowls just in case your visitor is not a pet-lover and, if you can, don’t have pets in the house when prospective buyers call. If the dog has its own
bed, give that a wash so everything there smells fresh and not of dog!
If you have time to PLAN for your move, improve the energy efficiency of your home by improving insulation, double glazing and the efficiency of your heating system. Reasonable energy bills can certainly impress a prospective buyer at any time.
Post-lockdown, many people like to enjoy their OUTDOOR
SPACE and so invest in ways to improve it. If you can improve yours before putting it on the market with better planned growing and seating areas or new garden furniture, you’ll be making a sensible investment.
And once you have moved and are looking to update your bedroom furniture why not try Leyland Beds, a family run business for over 20 years. It has two floors of beds and bedroom furniture as well as occasional and dining ranges.
The Power of Connection
Loneliness in later life is a significant issue for many people. According to Age UK^, nearly one million older people across the UK often feel lonely, and almost half a million say they never see or speak to anybody.
Loneliness can affect anybody at any age, but a number of contributing factors, such as bereavement, health conditions or needing to care for a loved one mean that older people are much more at risk. Other life changes, such as a reduction in eyesight, hearing or mobility can also lead to people spending more time alone and feeling isolated or invisible.
As a retired GP, Trevor, an Adlington Retirement Living homeowner, knows only too well the negative impact that loneliness can have on health, but he has also experienced firsthand the difference that becoming part of a thriving community can make.
“In my old house, I used to see very few people except for my neighbours. I wasn’t myself at all and I didn’t speak to many people. I think one of the big benefits of moving to a retirement community like Adlington is the stimulus of other people at this time of life. If somebody has been on their own, as I know very well, you can sink into not wanting to do anything. You lose your ability to think properly, and to converse properly, and you start to go downhill.
“Looking back now, I didn’t realise at the time, that’s exactly what happened to me. The stimulus of moving into a place like this can be of great benefit. I am so, so pleased I came.”
Tips to tackle loneliness
The Mental Health Foundation* suggests a variety of simple and practical things we can all do to help ourselves and each other:
1. Try to keep busy
Small activities such as gardening, going to an exercise class or doing jigsaws can give you energy and positive feelings.
2. Stimulate your mind
Activities that occupy your mind such as taking courses or listening to podcasts can help.
3. Get moving
Physical exercise can be as simple as having a walk in the park or dancing around your living room.
4. Try to engage with the people you meet
Even catching someone’s eye and saying “hi” as you walk along can make you feel better.
5. Spend time with pets
Not only do animals provide us with unconditional love and support, but they also help to give structure to our days and even encourage us to get out and connect with others.
6. Find people who understand
It can be hard to connect with others when you’re feeling lonely. But there are great benefits in finding people who have been through similar experiences to you.
Come and see for yourself
Why not get a real feel for the lifestyle? Get in touch to arrange a private tour by calling 01524 917888 or visit adlington.co.uk/50L to find out more.
Fewer worries and more time for yourself
Imagine a hassle-free lifestyle with more time for yourself in a warm, welcoming retirement community and our helpful on-site team, available 24-7, 365 days a year. With thoughtfully designed private apartments, spaces to socialise in, and amenities such as a restaurant * , hair salon*, coffee lounge, plus fully maintained landscaped gardens, there’s no need to brave the cold this winter - simply relax and enjoy the comfort within.
When it comes to inviting, relaxing breaks, we have the ideal holiday for you...
Whether you’re looking for a romantic break for two, a family holiday or getting away with friends, Daish’s Holidays offers 12 hotels in 10 of the most popular UK destinations. Our fleet of 35 luxury coaches provide return travel in comfort and style from your pick up point and will take you directly to your hotel, aiming to arrive between 3 – 5pm.
If you’d like to get out and about to explore the local area on your holiday, then all of our breaks can also be booked on a self-drive basis so you’ve got the freedom of having your own car.
Trip Advisor’s Travellers’ Choice
We are proud to announce that five of our group – Somerset, Imperial, Daish’s, Devonshire, County – have been awarded the coveted TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice award for 2024.
Local pick up points make it easy to get away.
Price includes return coach travel from:
Poulton Le Fylde, Fleetwood, Cleveleys, Bispham, Blackpool, St Annes, Lytham, Freckleton, Preston, Bamber Bridge, Charnock Richard Services
All offers are subject to availability and standard terms and conditions (see brochure or website for T&C’s).
Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a Standard Room. Supplements apply on twin/double rooms with sole occupancy. Optional local excursions can be booked at the hotel. Many more coach or self-drive holiday dates available in 2024. If you would prefer to self-drive, deduct £20 per person from prices shown. Offer ends 15th March 2025
Nine Months On: The Success of Our Flagship Charity Superstore
It has been nine months since the grand opening of our flagship charity superstore and what an incredible journey it has been! This milestone marks a significant chapter in the history of Regenerage, formerly known as Age Concern Central Lancashire. With over four decades of dedicated service to enhancing the lives of older people, our charity embraced a bold transformation earlier this year.
On March 20th, 2024, we unveiled our new identity as Regenerage, alongside the launch of our expansive charity superstore at Middlebrook Retail Park in Horwich, Bolton. This rebranding represents our commitment to “doing later life differently” while preserving the core values of compassion, quality care, and empowerment. The new name, which cleverly integrates “age” and “regenerate,” reflects both our dedication to supporting older adults and our vision for innovation and adaptation to evolving needs. CEO Suzanne Carr explained that the new name Regenerage came about after careful research and consultation. The inclusion of ‘age’ in the name signifies our commitment to benefiting people of all ages, while also emphasising our focus on supporting the older aged. The play on “Regenerate” reflects our respect for our heritage and 43-year history and commitment to evolving and adapting to new opportunities and to the evolving needs and wants of the next generation of older folk.
Suzanne explained “All businesses must invest to thrive and to grow and charities must do the same. The costs of the rebranding are an investment in our longer-term future. This change is being made to enable the charity to maximise income generation potential from the local communities that we serve and support, including through our charity retail trading, services development and delivery and broadening our reach to donors and corporate sponsors. The rebrand offers us a chance to innovate and expand, while maintaining the core values of our organisation.
Our commitment to providing necessary services to support local community remains unchanged and there will be no changes to
our services and activity centres. We are determined to uphold our mission of helping the elderly live well, focusing on enabling healthy and fulfilling ageing.
The superstore itself, a spacious 11,000 square feet of retail innovation, symbolises our mission to maximise community impact. Previously occupied by Laura Ashley, the store offers everything from pre-loved clothing and furniture to new white goods and a specialised bridal and occasional wear department. It serves not only as a marketplace but also as a beacon of sustainability and social connection, creating 10 new jobs, volunteering opportunities and countless customers.
Here’s a look at what’s been happening since we opened our doors:
Community Engagement
From the very beginning, the store has been embraced by the local community. Events such as our ‘Grand Opening’, ‘Fill a Bag’, ‘Bridal & Prom – 50% off Flash Sale’, have all encouraged customers in to the store and a wealth of fantastic donations. We’ve even had Granada TV in the store, filming for a feature on GenZ and Millennial shopping habits! These events have not only brought people together but have also reinforced our mission to support sustainable living and personal growth. Starting in ’25 we have events planned including ‘Fitness Friday’ throughout January, ‘Valentine’s Day’, ‘World Book Day’, ‘Bridal & Prom Sale’, to name but a few.
The opening of the store created 10 new vacancies and volunteering positions. We currently have 3 amazing volunteers who give of their freely to assist in the store and we are always looking to recruit more. If you want to find out more about volunteering opportunities at our Middlebrook store, please visit our website click on the ‘Apply here’ button to volunteer.
https://regenerage.org.uk/shops/
Our store is as much about people as it is about products. The charity is supported by volunteers, many of whom share with us their personal stories of newfound friendships, personal fulfilment, overcoming loneliness and improved mental wellbeing through being part of our team.
Sustainability Milestones
One of our key goals was to promote sustainability, and the response has been phenomenal. Since opening in March of this year we receive an average of 310 bags of donations a week which equates an estimated 11.5 tons of clothing and household items having been diverted from landfill, giving these items a second life.
We are delighted to have seen more and more younger shoppers visiting the store, reaffirming that a significant number of UK consumers, especially younger generations like Gen Z and Millennials, actively engage in buying second-hand products. The trend to make more considered purchases is also driven by growing awareness of the environmental impact of overproduction and waste.
Alongside the increase in younger shoppers we have also seen a really great uptake on GiftAid at our Middlebrook Superstore with 1154 people having signed up to Gift Aid up to the end of December ’24. Gift Aid is crucial for Regenerage as it increases the value of donations by 25% at no extra cost to the donor. This added income helps us to boost our fundraising efforts, plan more effectively, and make each contribution go further. Whether for one-off or regular donations, Gift Aid significantly enhances our ability to carry our mission of ‘working with and for older people, enriching their lives and supporting them to live well and age well & independently.’ Support as a Gift Aider makes a meaningful difference enabling us to do even more good.
Customer Feedback
Customers have been at the heart of our journey, and their feedback has been invaluable. Many have praised the store’s spacious layout, the quality and variety of items, our competitive pricing and the welcoming atmosphere created by our staff and volunteers. We now have ‘regulars’ who come to the store not just for the amazing wealth of items for sale but for the social impact of seeing the familiar, friendly faces of our staff and volunteers.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, there is much to be excited about. As well as our growing list of future planned events for the store, we are also exploring partnerships with local universities to educate the next generation about sustainability and charitable giving.
We aim to introduce other corporate partners in to the Community area of the store, where shoppers can pick up leaflets and valuable information about important services and offers enabling independent living and wellbeing. Current corporate partners include Electricity North West with information about their Extra Care Register, Discretion Hearing with information about hearing health, Farleys Solicitors with information about wills and lasting power of attorney and 50plus with information about equity release.
Our flagship store is more than a shop – it is a place to feel connected, to find solutions to life challenges, make new friends and make a difference. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to its success—from our donors and customers to our hardworking staff and volunteers. Here’s to many more milestones to come!
Stay connected with us for updates and upcoming events by following our social media channels Facebook – ‘Regenerage’ and ‘Regenerage Charity Shops’, Instagram – ‘regenerage _ charity’ and visiting our website www.regenerage.org.uk . Together, we can continue to make a difference to the lives of our older communities whilst working with and for older people, enriching their lives and supporting them to live well and independently.
Why not take a trip to our Middlebrook Retail Park Charity Superstore to see for yourself what all the excitement is about! You will find us at: Middlebrook Retail & Leisure Park, 63 The Linkway, Horwich, BL6 6JA. You won’t be disappointed! The store is open from 9am-6pm Monday to Saturday and 10am-4pm on a Sunday At Regenerage we believe in ‘Doing later life differently.’
Considering a funeral plan?
Be Positive, Practical and Productive in 2025 by taking care of your financial end of life planning and more importantly giving peace of mind to your loved ones
This article was written by Haven Personal Funeral Plans Ltd.
What is a funeral plan?
A funeral plan allows you to pay for your funeral upfront saving your loved ones from the financial burden of covering the cost themselves. Funeral plans can only be sold by firms authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) or their Appointed Representatives.
You will pay for the funeral at today’s prices, potentially saving the cost of inflation from between when you take the funeral plan out and time of need.
Planning your own funeral can be a difficult and emotional thing to do for most people, nobody wants to think about, let alone have a conversation about the day when they are not here. However it can provide loved ones with all the help and support they will need at a difficult time.
If you have ever had to plan a loved one’s funeral, you will know first hand how distressing and difficult this can be. In order for the funeral director to arrange the funeral they have to ask you a series of questions. You need to make certain decisions which when you are grieving and upset can be an incredibly difficult thing to do, especially if you didn’t know your loved one’s personal preferences. This can make you question if you made the right choice and then there is the financial burden of also having to cover the cost of the funeral.
A funeral plan can be a positive, practical and productive thing to do not only for yourself but very importantly for your loved ones.
What are the benefits and risks of having a funeral plan?
If you are thinking about a funeral plan, it is important that you have all of the information in order for you to decide if a funeral
plan is right for you, it is important to weigh up the benefits and the risks.
Benefits of having a funeral plan:
• They potentially protect you from inflation. You pay for the funeral at today’s price avoiding any future inflation. If funeral costs continue to rise in the future as they have done consistently in previous years, you will not need to pay anymore. Currently in the UK, the cost of a basic funeral is now £4,141.00 which has increased by 4.7% compared to last years price (according to the Sunlife Cost of Dying Report 2024).
• The financial burden is taken away from your loved ones at time of need.
• Your funeral arrangements and personal wishes are taken care of.
• Funeral plans are exempt from Inheritance Tax.
Risks of having a funeral plan:
• A funeral plan only covers items/ services included in the plan, these vary depending on the plan so it is important to check you have included everything. If at point of need items / services need to be added, for example an additional car for relatives, your relative will have to pay for this.
• The funeral plan provider could fail, if this was the case your plan could be refunded in full or be transferred to another provider.
• The Trust in which your money is invested may fail, if this was the case and a return of your monies is not possible you may be entitled to compensation under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
• In the unlikely event that funeral costs fall in the future, the price paid for your funeral plan would remain the same.
What’s included in a funeral plan?
This can vary depending on the plan provider and the type of funeral plan however most funeral plans include funeral directors’ costs, a coffin, a hearse, a minister, cremation fees, burial fees up to the cost of cremation. It is important when buying a funeral plan that you read and understand exactly what is and is not included in the funeral plan. Funeral plans can be tailored and personalised to suit your individual needs and wishes.
How does a funeral plan with Haven work?
Haven sells funeral plans through a network of family-owned funeral directors who are Appointed Representatives of Haven Personal Funeral Plans. The funeral homes cover East Lancashire,
West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester. Funeral plans are sold face to face by funeral directors who have been specifically trained in funeral plans.
When you take out a Haven Personal Funeral plan, the price you pay includes an administration fee that is kept by the company to cover the day to day running costs. The balance is then transferred into The Haven Funeral Trust where it is invested by an FCA regulated investment manager. The money is held there until needed.
During the lifetime of the funeral plan, you will be contacted every 18 months with a summary of your funeral plan and given the opportunity to change any details of the funeral plan to suit your current needs and wishes. Changes to your funeral plan can be made at any time, you do not need to wait for the 18 month summary. Haven do not charge an admin fee for changes being made to your funeral plan.
When you take the funeral plan out, you will be given the opportunity to appoint a Nominated Representative. A Nominated Representative is someone who will know about your funeral plan so that at time of need, the funeral plan does not go unclaimed. A nominated representative can’t make any changes or cancel your funeral plan.
At time of need, whoever is arranging your funeral simply needs to get in touch either with Haven directly or your nominated funeral director where they will be informed of what happens next. They will then be supported throughout the entire process leading up to during and after the funeral by our team of dedicated caring and professional staff.
Once the funeral has taken place, Haven will pay your nominated funeral director for carrying out your funeral in accordance with your planned wishes. Your loved ones will not be charged any extra for this, these costs will be covered by your funeral plan. If any extras are required at time of need that are not covered by the funeral plan, these will be payable to the funeral director by your loved ones.
Haven is a trading name of Haven Personal Funeral Plans Ltd which is registered in England and Wales No. 03557936
