Reading & West Berks issue 30 by 50 Plus Magazine

READING, BRACKNELL & WEST BERKS MARCH - MAY 2013 EDITION 30

David Hasselhoff THE HOFF’S GOT TALENT

The Hairy Bikers

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4kW W What return do your Savings give you now? The benefits of SolarPV panels for generating your own electricity are still dramatic and a clear winner for anyone wishing to safeguard against future energy prices, while generating themselves a predictable income stream over the next 20 years. Although the Feed-in-Tariff for generating your own electricity has reduced to 15.5p per unit the overall cost of installing Solar Panels has come down by 60%, making it more affordable than ever for homeowners. The average age of a typical domestic solar-panel customer is 60 plus, which may not be so surprising when one considers this as one of the highest disposable income groups. With mortgages paid off any retirement savings are earning a pittance in ISAs and other traditional forms of investments. The advent of SolarPV and the Government Feed-in-Tariff scheme has offered a safe investment vehicle that now yields far more than can be currently earned elsewhere, as well as a way of making fuel savings and doing your bit for the environment.

Of course the basic premise is that those looking for the benefits from generating their own electricity have capital to invest. The cost of installing SolarPV panels will vary according to the size of system but an optimum domestic size of 4kW (16 panels) will now cost around £6000 or £5000 for 2.5kW (10 panels). Investing in SolarPV should be considered a medium term investment that is tied to the value of. your property rather like buying a new kitchen or a conservatory. But unlike other home improvements SolarPV will earn you money from the outset; generating electricity and a tax free income day after day, year after year.

East or West facing,in excess In the right conditions an installation can net savings and income you only have a flat roof, space on a garage or barn the sums can still stack of £900 per year, effectively paying off the initial cost in aroundup. six to seven years, which stacks up to a very attractive 16% return on investment. Even if your roof is East or West facing, you only have a flat roof, space on a garage or barn then the sums can still stack up.

Phone to book your survey or ‘Click your Roof’

inside... TRAVEL & LEISURE

6-7

6-7 15-17

6-7

Travels around Tuscany ... Fabulous scenery and breathtaking drives

8-9

British & Continental Holidays ... From Truemans Tourline

50+ Physical Activity Programme ... Shine Classes

INTERVIEW

10-11

24-25

10-11 The Hoff’s Got Talent ... From Britain’s Got Talent to Peter Pan

HEALTH 20

Free Day Pass ... At LivingWell Gym

24-25 How to Love Food and Lose Weight ... Healthy Recipes from the Hairy Bikers

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

32-33 Need a New Hip or Knee ... Returning to Mobility

HOME 15-17 Changing Rooms ... Tips to get the latest looks.

FAMILY & NOSTALGIA SHOWS Coming Soon To Reading Arts The Hexagon / Fri 15 Mar / 7.30pm

ANTON & ERIN: Go to Hollywood. Last few tickets remaining. The Hexagon / Sun 16 Mar / 12noon - 5pm

REAL VINTAGE The regular Vintage Fair at The Hexagon. The Hexagon / Wed 20 Mar / 8pm

THE BOOTLEG BEATLES: In Concert. The world’s premier Beatle band. The Hexagon / Sat 23 Mar / 7.30pm

ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA The Hexagon / Mon 25 & Tues 26 Mar

THE GRUFFALO’S CHILD ‘fun, daft and a little scary!’ The Scotsman Concert Hall / Tues 9 Apr / 8pm

MARCUS BRIGSTOCKE: The Brig Society www.readingarts.com box office 0118 960 6060 4

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HAVING A TWITTER with Graham Smith Born to be King or Queen Well didn’t that cause a media kerfuffle? No sooner had the ink dried on Lord Justice Leveson’s pen to give the British press a kick in the rear when all hell breaks loose as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge announced that Kate is expecting. No doubt as the new year wears on there will be many more scramblings and in summer expect carnage as the race is on for the first picture of the newborn. Cameramen and reporters were almost killed in the media scrum to take up pole position outside King Edward VII hospital where the Duchess had been admitted with morning sickness in the early stages of her pregnancy. Why do they do it? All they are going to see is a hospital door for goodness sake. Kate’s hardly likely to come tripping down in her nightie to pose for pictures in between retching, is she? Some of the words which come out of media mouths on such occasions can make you equally sick. Charged with filling three minutes on the main news they come out with all manner of tripe. Under new laws, even if this baby is a girl, it will be third in line of succession to the throne. Bearing in mind the longevity of the Royal Family I reckon she could be around 87 before she comes to the throne and I certainly don’t think I’ll be at the street party to celebrate. One conversation between media types discussed what would happen if she had twins. Eventually the concensus was that the first child to emerge would be third in line to the throne. Fascinating, they go to college for this you know. It’s been over 2,000 years since we had such fervour over an impending birth, and look at the trouble that caused. Every guest house was closed and the poor beggar ended up in a stable jostling for position with cows, sheep, singing shepherds, camels, a donkey and a confused surrogate father who claimed he hadn’t done anything to Mary anyway! (Oh dear, there will be letters).

Joking apart, good luck to the Royal couple, they were one of the few bright spots in the year 2012 and let’s hope the chastised media minds its manners with them and their future family in 2013.

Dogs in the driving seat Given that they have usually four perfectly good legs why would you want to teach a dog to drive? A New Zealand animal charity is doing just that because it reckons that owners will be more encouraged to adopt them if they show signs of increased intelligence. Right then. I’ll admit it’s handy if you’re out to a party and don’t want to drive. Instead of your wife you could take the dog to drive you home but if the police stop you don’t count on being home before morning, they will have questions. The charity put Porter, Mont and Ginny behind the wheel of an adapted Mini Cooper and after just eight weeks are reported to have put it in gear, accelerate and steer, something which is beyond many humans after they have passed their test! So far the dogs have been driving with the help of an assistant inside the car but the next move is to let them try solo, on live television. Simon Cowell wait for this. According to an instructor, they will hop in, start the car, put it in gear and use the accelerator. Thankfully this is being done on an off-road track but the charity has visions of carrying it further. When I see a Jack Russell driving a Mini Cooper down the motorway I will know it’s time to hand in my licence.

When Irish eyes are smiling! We recently rented out a property after receiving quite a bit of Internet interest but it was the last enquiry which made me chuckle. It said simply by text, “Would you consider renting to an Irish escort?” I didn’t reply and the following day received another text with a link to the escort’s web site. Checking, as you do, I was staggered at the rates she was charging, £170 an hour….she could certainly have paid the rent!

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y n a c s u T

Travels around

veladvisor.com)

ver Travel Advisor (silvertra

By Maria Meredith from Sil

Italy is one of my favourite places not only because I have family there (Parma) but also I love the many different areas- the Puglian trullis, the fabulous scenery and breath taking drives around the Amalfi coast, the Sicilian culture- not forgetting the fabulous food and wine! We had never been to Tuscany and decided it was time to go and see what all the fuss was about!

My Week in Tuscany Our Easyjet plane landed on time at Pisa, it’s much cheaper to fly here than to Florence and we picked up our hire car from Budget, which was a bargain £99 for the week. The car hire collection point is accessed via a 2 minute free bus ride and was one of the easiest car hire pick up/returns 6

we have had along with the bonus of being given a free upgrade. This was a very positive start.

Il Castelle, Certaldo Alta We set out for our first stop, La Fonte in Certaldo, where we were staying for four nights. Our first visit was to San Gimignano, which we did like but we found it very touristy and much preferred the old town of Certaldo. Here we were lucky enough to witness an Italian wedding which provided a great opportunity to experience a true Italian event and watch all the characters enjoy themselves. Sadly, we did not discover the relevance of the various metal life-sized men placed around the town, one of which was perched on top of a high tower, an art installation perhaps? Certaldo Alto was accessed via a funicular railway which stays open until late (costs 1 euro each way). It was far less touristy than San Gimignano and therefore was not as crowded. We enjoyed two excellent meals in Certaldo Alto– at Il Castello

and L’Antica Fonte - both with lovely views. The owner of La Fonte strongly recommended taking the train to Florence (about 10 euros for a return ticket, the journey takes just under an hour to Santa Maria station, where you get off). It’s vital to check and double check train times as these can change at the last minute somewhat unpredictably.

Siena Siena was next on the agenda and this was the only place where we hadn’t pre-booked accommodation. We found a brilliant hotel within 10 minutes’ walking distance of the Duomo, main square, restaurants & bars etc. It is the Hotel Villa Liberty and cost only 133 euros for B&B in a very good location. The only downside of our stay in Siena was that minutes after getting seated “al fresco” in our chosen restaurant that evening, the heavens opened! En route to Lucca the following day we decided to take a detour to

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Volterra which I had read about in the tour guide. Volterra is another walled city and most definitely worth the journey. The countryside views en route were stunning and sadly I conceded that many were better than in the UK! And it wasn’t raining…… Our arrival at Albergo Villa Casanova was far later than we planned so we did not really have that much time to relax – this 5 star boutique hotel certainly had the “Wow” factor but at a price! Leaving the luxury of Casanova behind we set out for a morning sightseeing in Lucca before making our way to our last destination of Pisa. We wished we had allowed more time for Lucca - we noticed many people cycling around the city walls and would have liked to have done the same. We did manage to get lost in the maze of streets but fortunately the lady I asked understood my Italian…. and more importantly. I understood her directions! We had decided to return the car a day early as the cost of parking the car in the hotel garage was around the same price as taxis to/from the airport. We also felt it would be less stressful than the usual car hire return palaver, but I must say it was one of the easiest car hire returns ever! The Royal Victoria Hotel in Pisa cost only £99 for B&B. Described as a very old antique hotel we appreciated it was going to be vastly different to the luxury we had experienced at Casanova but it was perfect for a short stay. The Fields of Miracles was within 1015 minutes walking distance from our hotel with many bars & restaurants en route - obviously the closer to The Tower the more you pay. We chose a bar on the corner directly opposite the Tower and were pleasantly surprised to receive four delicious mini paninis along with our Peronis!

Leaning Tower of Pisa I had wanted to see the Leaning Tower for as long as I could remember and l was not disappointed. It has benefited from a “wash & brush up” and looked

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marvellous. We could not believe the extent that tourists were going to get wacky photos - what a laugh! And … yes…we got a few of our own too-it must be infectious. We will definitely return …in Spring or Autumn maybe. That evening we chose La Buca restaurant near the Tower – the meal was nice but sadly the service did not match the quality of the food. After a few more hours in The Fields of Miracles the following morning we returned to our hotel for the taxi to the airport to catch our late afternoon flight. Our only regret is that we hadn’t booked a further two or three days in this beautiful part of the world with the ever present scent of Jasmine. We returned feeling like we could do with another more relaxing holiday to totally “chill out”! We hardly had time to read more than a few pages of our books as the sightseeing, travelling and staying at four different accommodations was quite wearing - not to mention that I was suffering from “photography fatigue” after taking over 800 photos! In future I will bear this in mind or make a point of sightseeing only until mid pm returning to our accommodation for a spot of sunbathing, swimming and to read a few chapters.

Maria Meredith

writes for the over 50’s travel review and information website silvertraveladvisor. com. Maria is an active Silver Traveller; when her husband retired two years ago, she decided to join him at the age of 54 (one benefit of marrying an older man!). She has worked in banking, catering and for the last 28 years for M&S at a variety of stores. She has many hobbies, entering competitions and photography being two of them. Travel has always been a big part of her life - visiting many places in Europe and also destinations further afield such as New Zealand, India & Mauritius. Her first ever cruise was last year to see the Northern Lights. She particularly enjoys reading about different customs and traditions and has many funny stories to share, hence Maria is delighted to be able to contribute to Silver Travel Advisor.

For more details see silvertraveladvisor.com

British & Continental Holidays

Tourline

Welcome to the Tourline selection of holidays for the coming months. We offer you a choice of 11 local pick up points, all within the County of Berkshire. On completion of the pick up route we continue the journey to your holiday destination, there will not be any changing of coaches or transferring of passengers at service stations.

Saturday 30th March

Monday 25th March

ON SELECTED DEPARTURES

Monday 8th April

5 DAYS

3 DAYS

5DAYS

£359

£179

£309

Warners

Easter Weekend

Scarborough

A springtime break to North Wales staying at the Grade II listed Bodelwyddan Castle with breathtaking views of the Clwydian Hills and Snowdonia National Park. We include visits to the medieval walled town of Conwy, the Victorian seaside town of Llandudno with its pier and tram rides up the Great Orme. .

A short break over the Easter weekend to the interesting city of Derby, with a city centre hotel, excursion into the Peak District, visits to Crown Derby Pottery and Crich Tramway Village.

A favourite resort on the spectacular North Yorkshire Coast with superb clean sandy beaches, tight knit old town streets, quiet parks and gardens. Excursions include a journey on the North York Moors Railway and a tour along the coastline to Flamborough Head and Bridlington plus a visit to Beverley.

BODELWYDDAN CASTLE HOTEL

IN DERBY

AND THE YORKSHIRE COAST

Holiday includes ... l 4 night’s dinner bed & breakfast l Excursions l Porterage

Holiday includes ... l 2 night’s dinner bed & breakfast l Excursions l Tour at Royal Crown Derby l Admission to Crich Tramway Village

Holiday includes ... l 4 night’s dinner bed & breakfast l Single Rail Journey l Excursions l Porterage

Bodelwyddan Castle Hotel

Holiday Inn, Derby Riverlights ★★★

Red Lea Hotel, Scarborough ★★★

PRICE: £359 DEPOSIT: £40 SS : £NIL INSURANCE: £23

PRICE: £179 DEPOSIT: £30 SS : £18 INSURANCE: £21

PRICE: £309 DEPOSIT: £40 SS : £NIL SEA VIEW SUPP’: £28 INSURANCE: £23

Monday 6th May

Monday 22nd April

Thursday 30th May

5 DAYS

5DAYS

£285

£359

£319

Northern

Newquay

Delights of

A northern exploration visiting the Lake District, Burns Country, Hadrian’s Wall, with an included admission into Vindolandia, and the North Pennines.

To the north cost of Cornwall and an interesting itinerary of visits, including the Eden Project, Falmouth, the pretty fishing of Padstow and a river trip to Falmouth.

Holiday includes ... l 4 night’s dinner bed & breakfast l Excursions l Admission to Vindolandia l Porterage

Holiday includes ... l 4 night’s dinner bed & breakfast l Excursions l Admission to Eden Project l Admission to Lost Gardens of Heligan l Porterage

Rural villages, lush green meadows, rich farmlands and sandy heathlands depicted by the famous painters Constable and Gainsborough. We visit historic Bury St Edmunds, with its Dickens connections, and the delightful Suffolk countryside and peaceful coastline.

Gretna Hall Hotel, Gretna Green

Esplanade Hotel, Newquay ★★★ AA/RAC

The Holiday Inn, Ipswich

PRICE: £285 DEPOSIT: £40 SS : £NIL INSURANCE: £23

PRICE: £359 DEPOSIT: £40 SS : £NIL SEA VIEW SUPPLEMENT £34 INSURANCE: £23

PRICE: £319 DEPOSIT: £40 SS : £NIL INSURANCE: £23

EXPLORER

Truemans Tourline

IN CORNWALL

Truemans End

Lynchford Road

SUFFOLK

Holiday includes ... l 4 night’s dinner bed & breakfast l Excursions l Admission to Lavenham Guildhall l River Orwell Cruise l Porterage

Ash Vale

Hampshire

GU12 5PQ

Monday 1st July

Monday 24th June

Monday 22nd July

5 DAYS

5DAYS

£369

£425

£359

Llandudno

Exploring

Isle of Wight

A summer break to the lovely Victorian town of Llandudno on the northern coast of Wales. We include train journeys on the Welsh Highland Railway, Ffestiniog Railway and Snowdonia Mountain Railway, a drive through the Llanberis Pass, a stop at Betws-yCoed and a full day in Llandudno.

Peebles is an ideal base for exploring Edinburgh and all that it has to offer as well as visiting Royal Yacht Britannia, Rosslyn Chapel, Traquair House and the Dawyck Botanic Gardens. Holiday includes ... l 4 night’s dinner bed & breakfast l Admission to Dawyck Botanic Garden l Admission to Traquair House l Admission to Royal Yacht Britannia l Guided Coach Tour of Edinburgh l Admission and tour of Rosslyn Chapel l Porterage

A relaxing break on the pretty Isle of Wight, with some gentle days out and a peaceful location on the south coast with views across the bay

Four Oaks Hotel

De Vere Barony Castle, Peebles ★★★

The Trouville Hotel, Sandown ★★★

PRICE: £369 DEPOSIT: £40 SS : £NIL SEA VIEW SUPPLEMENT £8 INSURANCE: £23

PRICE: £425 DEPOSIT: £50 SS : £80 INSURANCE: £23

PRICE: £359 DEPOSIT: £40 SS : £NIL INSURANCE: £23

& THE TRAINS OF NORTH WALES

Holiday includes ... l 4 night’s dinner bed & breakfast l Single journey on Welsh Highland Railway l Single journey on Ffestiniog Railway l Return journey on Snowdon Mountain Railway l Porterage

EDINBURGH

DELIGHTS

Holiday includes ... l 4 night’s dinner bed & breakfast l Excursions l Return journey on Isle of Wight Steam Railway l Admission to Osborne House l Porterage

Sunday 4th August

Monday 29th July

Friday 9th August

5 DAYS

6 DAYS

4 DAYS

£349

£599

£325

Harrogate

Alnwick

AND THE YORKSHIRE DALES

Planes

AND NORTHUMBERLAND

TRAINS AND CANAL BOATS

Based in the spa town of Harrogate, with included visits to RHS Harlow Carr, the World of James Herriot, a tour of the Black Sheep Brewery and a full day tour around the Yorkshire Dales, something to please everyone.

To the unspoilt north east coast, staying in the centre of Alnwick with visits to the award winning Alnwick Castle and Gardens, Bamburgh Castle and Cragside, along with a visit over the causeway to Lindisfarne on Holy Island

A relaxing break to the charming market town of Tiverton on the River Exe, within easy reach of the West Somerset Railway and the beautiful rugged Exmoor National Park

Holiday includes ... l 4 night’s dinner bed & breakfast l Excursions l Entrance to World of James Herriot l Entrance to RHS Harlow Carr l Tour of the Black Sheep Brewery l Porterage

Holiday includes ... l 5 night’s dinner bed & breakfast l Excursions and admissions as above l Porterage

Holiday includes ... l 3 night’s dinner bed & breakfast l Grand Western Horse Barge Canal Cruise l Single Journey on the West Somerset Railway l Excursions l Porterage

The Yorkshire Hotel, Harrogate ★★★

The White Swan Hotel, Alnwick ★★★

Best Western Tiverton Hotel ★★★

PRICE: £349 DEPOSIT: £40 SS : £60 INSURANCE: £23

PRICE: £599 DEPOSIT: £60 SS : £100 INSURANCE: £24

PRICE: £325 DEPOSIT: £40 SS : £48 INSURANCE: £22

For Bookings Call 0844 209 4788

Tourline

The Hoff ’s GOT TALENT For a man who hit 60 not long ago David Hasselhoff – better known as simply The Hoff – has continued the swashbuckling ways he began as a young actor. Known to millions across the world as good guy Michael Knight, the man with the talking car in iconic science fiction series “Knight Rider” which was the most watched TV show in history, the actor became a hero. He compounded the image with another blockbuster of the small screen, “Baywatch”, where he played lifeguard Mitch Buchannon and saved even more lives.

The pirate with the interesting hand ornament and overdose of self-confidence, however, is a million miles from the young David Hasselhoff. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, David first got the theatrical bug at the age of seven and took acting, singing and dancing lessons. He was, however, very shy off stage in front of girls because he was tall and thin. On stage, though, he was in his element. Unsurprisingly, acting became his career and, while in California, he became successful on the hugely popular US TV series “The Young and the Restless” in 1973 as Dr William “Snapper” Foster Jr. By then, he’d developed heartthrob looks and a physique to match. In 1982 he moved from daytime soap to prime time programming with “Knight Rider” which captured the public’s imagination not only in the States but across the world.

His swashbuckling action is on the side of the baddies rather than the goodies as he became the notorious Captain Hook in perennial panto favourite “Peter Pan” for an extended run at Manchester’s Opera House.

When that show ended, Hasselhoff launched a successful recording career in Europe. In 1989 “Looking for Freedom” remained in the No.1 spot in the German charts for eight consecutive weeks. He has continued to perform regularly in concert ever since and has released nine albums to date, scoring a UK single hit in 2006 with “Jump In My Car”. He returned to episodic TV in 1989 in “Baywatch” – the series about California lifeguards which launched Pamela Anderson to superstardom and made red one-piece swimming costumes the coolest beachwear on the planet. Although the programme enjoyed good ratings, the network cancelled it after only one series. Undeterred, Hasselhoff and his partners acquired the rights to the 10

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INTERVIEW

show and, based on his popularity overseas, secured funding and revived “Baywatch” in 1991. The programme is still running and is now a piece of American culture, seen in 140 countries by more than one billon viewers each week. David Hasselhoff has always been prepared to try new challenges and his lengthy acting career has included film and stage roles. He made his Broadway debut in 2000 in the title role of “Jekyll and Hyde” and played the lead role in London performances of “Chicago.” He’s sufficiently down-to-earth to parody himself – even taking a major role in the children’s blockbuster film “The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie” in 2004 where he meets SpongeBob and Patrick very much in his “Baywatch” persona. He had a short appearance in the movie “DodgeBall”, was in “EuroTrip” and played Adam Sandler’s despicable boss in the 2006 film “Click”. The same year, he portrayed Roger DeBris in the Las Vegas production of Mel Brooks’ famous show “The Producers”. His star was certainly in the ascendancy during this time as he also became a judge on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent”, taking a judging role in the second, third and fourth seasons alongside Sharon Osburne and Piers Morgan. Hasselhoff also has an uncanny knack of spotting trends and opportunities. In 2008, “The Hoff” became the first celebrity downloadable character for the PlayStation Network’s video game “Pain”. And the following year, he began a TV love affair with the British public through two-part special “The Hoff: When Scott Came To Stay” which chronicled how radio presenter Scott Mills lived for four days with Hasselhoff at his Californian mansion. The star and his two daughters, Taylor and Hayley, took part in another British TV reality show when they went ghost-hunting at Tutbury Castle in Staffordshire. And in 2011, The Hoff – always a big favourite in the UK - returned to British TV as a judge on “Britain’s Got Talent”. He’s been a contestant on America’s “Dancing with the Stars” and, to demonstrate his theatrical diversity, in 2011 took on the dastardly pirate role in “Peter Pan” for the first time. Hasselhoff is a true Anglophile, has often brought his daughters here and his 32 year-old girlfriend, Hayley Roberts, is Welsh. At 6ft 4ins and with one of the most recognisable faces in the world that appears to be defeating the ravages of time, he’s still hugely popular wherever he goes.

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He’s a big fan of Manchester, and has been reported as saying he wants to enjoy shopping in the city and see a play during his stay. “I love the Manchester accent and I can’t believe how beautiful and hip the city is,” he said. “When I was in town for ‘Britain’s ~Got Talent’, Louis Walsh said to me ‘you’ll love Manchester’ and I did. The city is very, very cool and European.” He describes his panto role as “The Hook gone Hoff” and there’s no doubt audiences will enjoy what is bound to be an entertaining stint by this enthusiastic performer. As for where his career takes him next, David Hasselhoff appears to be accepting of where the theatrical fates send him. Likeable and larger than life, he is pragmatic about his work and was once reported as saying: “I may not be a big movie star who gets to be James Bond, but who cares? I am happy. I’ll leave it in God’s hands.” Photos: Shutterstock.com

GIVE AND IT WILL BE GIVEN UNTO YOU

A fresh slant on Inheritance Tax Planning

Government has a reputation more for taking rather than giving. Indeed, much of the Inheritance Tax (IHT) legislation is trying to prevent you giving your estate away so as to avoid paying IHT. It purports to look to the reality of the situation. So, if you give property away and continue to enjoy benefit in all or any of it, Government still taxes you as if you still owned it. It doesn’t like people having their cake and still eating it. Similarly, if you give money away and the donee buys property or assets from which you later benefit, they charge you a “pre-owned” assets tax. They try to catch anything from which you still continue to benefit. And even fully outright gifts, where you retain no benefit, remain taxable for up to seven years from the date of the gift.

There are some smaller gifts however which can be made without being part of your cumulative total. These are, in any tax year:

BUT IT IS NOT ALL THAT BAD! There are many “soft edges” to this principle, where natural family generosity is permitted, and indeed in one recent instance where it is positively encouraged and incentivised, by actually REDUCING the rate of IHT payable on the estate.

4. Any number of regular gifts affordably paid out of your after tax income (ie not from capital) are normally exempt. This means it is important to keep an annual summary of your income and expenditure in any tax year as, without that information, your executors will find it difficult to claim the exemption. Some people can save tens of thousands of pounds of IHT this way.

But let’s look at the “soft edges” first. Everyone has a Nil Rate Band (currently £325,000) up to which no IHT is payable. If you make gifts, they then eat into the Band. You need to keep a record of gifts (which when added together form your ‘cumulative total’). Tax at lifetime rates (20%) only becomes payable if your cumulative total exceeds the Nil Rate Band. Once a gift is 7 years old, it normally ceases to count and your cumulative total is reduced accordingly. So if you can afford to be generous to your children, the principle is to give little and often, in chunks of seven years, rather than a huge lump sum in one go.

1. Your £3,000 annual allowance 2. Additionally, any number of small gifts up to £250 to people other than those receiving all or part of the annual allowance of £3,000. If you give more than £250 to anybody, the £250 allowance is lost. 3. Additionally, gifts made on the occasion of marriage are exempt. £5,000 may be given by a parent, £2,500 by grandparents and £1,000 by anyone else.

5. Clever use of pension drawdown arrangements to fund one’s children’s pension can combine not only IHT relief but also Income Tax relief, but specialist financial advice is required here. Finally there is THE ACTUAL POTENTIAL GIFT TO YOU FROM HMRC that I mentioned above.

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For deaths from April 2012 onwards, HMRC reduces the rate of IHT by 10% from 40% to 36% if 10% of the estate is given to charity. A lovely back of the envelope idea, as the chancellor woke up in a generous mood one morning, but HMRC found it a nightmare to implement. They asked “10% of precisely what?” For instance, joint property and various other types of property, do not strictly form part of your estate but are deemed for IHT purposes to do so. There are complicated rules to identify what is known as the “baseline amount”, so testators will need careful advice. There are now various carefully crafted draft clauses for Wills that by flexibility of definition and criteria should ensure that when the time comes, the relevant eligibility test will be met. If it does not work, the situation can usually be cured by a Deed of Variation of the Will (see my last article), but for this to succeed, it needs to be done promptly and usually all the beneficiaries need to agree to the extra gifts. If that agreement is not forthcoming the lesser rate will continue to be lost. So it is best to get the will right in the first place. You then get a double benefit – as not only do you get a lower rate of IHT but the charitable gifts are themselves exempt. One Will I administered recently was varied to give away £130,000 to charity giving an IHT saving of some £88,000 – so the gift of £130,000 only cost the residuary beneficiaries £42,000 – that is a lot better than gift aid!

If there are already exempt charitable gifts in the Will, but not enough to get the rate reduction, it can sometimes actually pay the residuary beneficiaries to agree by Deed of Variation to make the extra charitable gifts. The break even point seems to be 4% of the relevant value of the estate. The beneficiaries can then increase that 4% of charitable gifts to 10% without suffering any reduction in value of the benefits they receive under the Will – i.e. the increase is wholly borne by the Government! That is why this article has its title and why I dare sometimes call the Government generous, indeed even biblical! (Luke 6 v 38).

We at Hewetts are very happy to advise you as to how to make your Wills and your giving more tax efficient.

Do ring us at Hewetts, on the number below, to discuss any of these issues asking for me Robin Gambles or for Tim Butcher. Our first half hour or so of advice will always be free and will give you a good idea of what you will be able to achieve and at what sort of cost.

Hewetts are an old established firm with a modern and progressive outlook, whose private client department sees an ever growing need to channel their legal energy to identifying and looking after the needs of the retired and elderly. Anyone over 50 should be anticipating both the opportunities and the problems, and plan accordingly by: • • • • • • • • •

wills to benefit your family in the most tax efficient way wills to protect your children where you may have remarried planning inheritance tax savings and protection of assets benefiting your family in your lifetime lasting powers of attorney both for property and affairs and personal welfare long term care arrangements ascertaining whether the NHS should pay for your care instead of being self funded co-ownership and "live-in" care arrangements with family equity release arrangements

55-57 Lo ndon S Reading treet, RG1 4PS

For further information contact Robin Gambles on 0118 955 9617

Email r.gambles@hewetts.co.uk Website www.hewetts.co.uk www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Coffee Break Puzzles ARIZONA

S C A N Y O N E M T S N N O B BANDIT P P Q R R H R Q U D O R O S O BOOTS J

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Add Up If the number in each circle is the sum of the two below it, how quickly can you figure out the top number? Try this one in your head, before writing anything down.

11 8 5 10 www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

All puzzles copyright Puzzler Media Ltd. www.puzzler.com

Can you find the 34 Wild West terms listed in the grid below? Words can be horizontal, vertical or diagonal, backwards or forwards.

Wordsearch

CHANGING ROOMS IN THE HOME IS SOMETHING MANY OF US LONG TO DO BUT ARE HAMPERED BY THOSE TWIN PROBLEMS: LACK OF MONEY AND LACK OF KNOWLEDGE.

Writes Angela Kelly

We may know what we DON’T want around us, but probably have only a vague idea of what we do. The way we proceed next tends to relate either to the structure of the house – knocking through to give bigger rooms, adding a conservatory or building an extension – or the interior décor which includes everything from light fittings and wallpaper to furniture and paintings. For the first, often more sweeping, approach, architectural consultant Gary Willis from Novensus says always remember the importance of light. “Daylight directly affects our wellbeing and living in dark conditions can add to our lethargy,” he states. Deep rooms can appear dark as natural daylight can’t penetrate to the furthest reaches, so Gary suggests perhaps adding more windows. If privacy is an issue, consider use opaque window film, opaque glass or even glass blocks. “High level strip windows can also be used to provide natural light without sacrificing privacy,” he adds. A pitched roof with a flat internal ceiling could be opened up to a more interesting space, enhanced by exposed roof structure and effective roof lights. www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

“Remove a wall to create an open plan dining/kitchen and a more adaptable space,” says Gary. “Even the removal of a load-bearing wall – one that has a structural purpose – is a relatively straightforward task to a competent builder.” For bigger projects, consider a garage or loft conversion. “Only around half of us really utilise our garage,” insists Gary. “Put this space to good use. Rather than just turning the garage into a room, how about thinking more laterally? Could you use part of the garage to extend an adjacent room to create a larger kitchen, whilst still reserving part of the garage for garden storage, a utility area or a study?” A conservatory can add both light and space to a home, “but a sun room or orangery is a much better option. It will be insulated to current standards that will provide a usable room in all seasons and ultimately add more value to your home. “Another alternative is a pre-built garden room which can be brought onto site in one piece, or built quickly in a modular format with limited disturbance.” 15

Maximise garden views “and minimise rubbish ones!” advises Gary. “Create a cosy oasis of space with a smaller patio. Dress it up with flower boxes and a beautiful chair or swing to provide visual interest throughout all seasons.” Indoors, bring in the light with brighter, lighter colours on walls, floors and ceilings to maximise available light. Gloss and satin finishes will reflect more light than dull, dark colours and mirrors can be used imaginatively to bring much-needed light into a room or brighten a dark hallway also giving the illusion of space.

BEFORE

When cash is short, home stylist and project manager Jill Brimley from Changing Spaces advises looking carefully at what you’ve already got and adapting where you can. “Dark walls can be painted a light, neutral shade like Dulux Natural Calico,” she says. Take a close look at doors as these can give a dated feel to a room, and invest in new, white ones to add to light. For the Living Room makeover (pictured), Jill also had new panelled cupboard doors made for the meter cupboard. The electrical socket was removed and re-sited to get rid of ugly trailing wires and storage added within the cupboard. A “gorgeous little chair” was bought from TK Maxx, the dark legs painted in white satin wood. The original curtains were dry cleaned and a new complimentary fabric panel was added to lengthen them to the floor. “Additional fabric was bought to cover existing cushion pads to co-ordinate the look,” says Jill. She recycled accessories from around the home “We also decluttered, removed the old carpet and put in new oak wood-style laminate flooring and painted the dark mahogany fireplace, mirror and cupboard in white satin wood to provide a brighter and nicer co-ordinated room.” For this Kitchen makeover on a budget, Jill kept the original units, unifying them to a cream satin wood and then adding freestanding furniture with doors almost identical to the existing units and bought at a clearance shop to add to the fitted look. Modern inexpensive cream brick tiles were used around the necessary areas, the walls were painted lighter with Dulux’s Javan Dawn, and the original back door was replaced with small French windows to bring in extra light and a view of the garden. Jill also replaced the original work top with a solid oak butcher’s block.

AFTER

JILL’S TIPS FOR UPDATING

ANY EXISTING KITCHEN ARE: • declutter work surfaces, tops of cupboards and walls • Steam clean kitchen area • Update white electrical sockets with chrome • Replace worktops with new, more modern items and/or change cupboard doors • Inexpensive plain tiles can make the look fresher and more modern • Chrome tile trims give a more upmarket look • Emulsion the walls to compliment the décor • Invest in new floor covering • Change the colour of your kettle, toaster etc for instant impact In the Bedroom, use relaxing light neutral colours. If space is limited, go for sliding wardrobe mirror doors to reflect light back into the room. Shop carefully for complementary bargain soft furnishings – go online, visit mill and clearance shops or use sale curtains to make Roman blinds or a bed throw.

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“For a contemporary look, change the door handle and light switch to chrome,” adds Jill. “Inset halogen lights in the front and inside of the wardrobe, and upgrade the radiator and radiator cabinet.” Use old pillows that have flattened as cushion pads or cut up old duvets, and plump up curtains with crumpled tissue paper. The Bathroom can improve if you knock through an old bathroom and separate toilet into one modern area. Add a heated towel radiator to save on space and for a more stylish look.

BEFORE

It’s worth investing in a combi boiler which gets rid of the old water tank and is more efficient. Try bricking up the original toilet widow externally and reduced it in size internally to give a useful shelf/recess. Investment in a white modern suite is really worthwhile. Use floor and wall tiles in the same neutral colour but different sizes - bigger tiles with smaller grout lines also give the illusion of space.

And if you struggle to see new potential in your home – call in the experts!

Meet the experts

AFTER

FlexibleLoanAd:Layout 1

GARY WILLIS Architectural Consultant from Novensus 22/01/2013

11:31

JILL BRIMLEY Home Stylist Changing Spaces

Page 1

F lexible Home Improvement Loan Would you like to improve the warmth comfort, safety and security of your home? Are you a homeowner aged 60 or over? If the answer is yes then you could be in for some good news…

In today’s uncertain world it is good to get help that you can trust. West Berkshire Council has launched the Flexible Home Improvement Loan available to home owners over 60 years old, to carry out improvements to your home to make it warmer, safer, more comfortable and secure. During the term of the loan you can choose to make regular repayments, occasional repayments or no payments at all. The loan will be secured by a charge on the property and the loan plus any outstanding interest must be repaid if the property is sold, or if the owners cease to occupy it.

Interest will be charged at a low rate linked to the Bank of England rate. Loans are also available to the owners of empty homes to help to bring them back into use. Examples of work that may be considered � � � � � �

Essential repairs and maintenance Central heating or improvements to heating Replacement doors and windows Improvements to insulation Roof and structural repairs Installation of adaptations such as level access showers

If you would like to apply for a loan or would like more information please contact the Private Sector Housing officer on 01635 519363.

OUT & ABOUT

Solutions

Our celebrated Southern Motorcaravan Show returns to Newbury Showground on 17th - 19th May 2013.

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The Southern Motorcaravan Show 2013

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The Show promises to once

8again 9 be 4a6 3 5event 2 1 fantastic for motorhomers complete 5with1 four 9 nights’ 8 2 camping, 4 7 3 4four3 nights 1 5of superb 7 8 campers’ 6 9 entertainment, shopper’s paradise and the enchanting city of Oxford nearby. 3 2 8 1 6 7 9 5 needs will be catered to at the 6All 7of your 5 Motorcaravan 3motorhoming 9 2 4Show, 8 which brings together Southern 9over 8 200 7 specialist 2 4 1outdoor 3 6exhibitors giving visitors the opportunity to see and compare thousands of products 1and4prices 6 7conveniently 5 3 8in one 2 place. 7 5 2 9 8 6 1 4 Gardening 2RHS 6 3 4 1 9 week 5 7 - Give Gardening a Go at South Hill Park

Thursday 18 April, 1pm – 4pm Activity: Want to get out in your garden but don’t know where to start? South Hill Park experienced gardeners will provide a helping hand with a practical introduction to the gardening basics. Meet: Outside main entrance to South Hill Park Arts Centre, off Ringmead, RG12 7PA. Booking Tough at the top required.

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Solutions

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Living Well ...

Exercise is one of the best ways to maintain our health and independence and help keep muscles strong. Walking, gardening, Tai Chi and dancing are great examples of exercise for any age and state of health but check with your GP first. Exercising in daylight also increases production of Vitamin D, you get a boost to your immune system - the good news is that you also burn more calories by exercising in the cold, around 12 per cent. Older peoples fitness expert, personal trainer and sports science lecturer at Middlesex University, Anne Elliott, (pictured opposite) reminds us that it’s never too late to take up exercise. Anne said: “from my experience of working with older people, many tend to think they are too old to exercise or that a medical condition they have stops them. A common pitfall is they just stop moving and as a result their muscles and joints weaken meaning they are more prone to injury or further musculoskeletal problems.”

FITNESS and being over 50 may not always go together as we monitor the changes in our bodies as we get older and wonder where on earth all that natural movement went. But, we can improve our fitness and move into a healthier phase of our lives by taking up some form of exercise – without pulling muscles or getting a strained back! Sara Stanner, science programme manager for the British Nutrition Foundation, explains that increasing activity levels after the age of 50 can improve life expectancy and increase the number of years spent disease and disability free. “Being active can help protect against heart disease, stroke, diabetes, some cancers, arthritis and osteoporosis,” she states. “It can help you to maintain a good appetite, keep you mobile, help with joint stiffness and pain associated with arthritis, reduce the risk of falling

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Anne dropped from a size 26 to a size 12

and has maintained it for 10 years!! Anne Elliott is an expert in exercise and fitness for middle age/older people and groups who don’t traditionally exercise. She’s passionate about getting people fit and can talk from personal experience after dropping from a size 26 down to a size 12 and maintaining this size for more than 10 years. She is also a qualified boxing referee and Olympic standard weightlifting instructor. Anne has written a diet and exercise book called ‘It’s not Rocket Science’ which focused on getting the general public fitter and has been endorsed by the Minister of State for Health and numerous health professionals.

Here are her top three tips to get and stay healthy: 1. It’s never too late to start. It doesn’t matter what age you are, where you are or what conditions you may have, following an exercise regime will improve your health. 2. If you haven’t done any exercise for a while a little bit every day is the winning way. If you do too much too quickly you will invariably hurt yourself and put yourself off exercise for another few years. Little and often! 3. Stick with it. Whether you are starting a diet or exercise regime keep with it for at least three weeks. Most people give up in this period when it starts to get hard, but by week four you will start to notice a difference – enough to keep you going a bit longer and longer and longer. Write a list of your reasons for starting and reread it when you feel like giving up.

“When did you last exercise or do anything strenuous? What is your health like? What does exercise mean to you? “If you have not exercised for a long time then you should approach it sensibly and cautiously, first asking a GP or health professional to give you the once-over and check you are fit and healthy with no underlying problems.

and fracturing bones by strengthening muscles and can improve your mood and sense of well-being.” Exercise doesn’t have to be hard to achieve or expensive. Sara suggests any cardio-vascular activity – that’s one that gets you at least slightly out of breath – will help to keep your heart, lungs and blood vessels healthy. This could be brisk walking, perhaps taking the dog out for a walk, swimming, gardening, golf (no cart!), tennis, aerobics including water aerobics, cycling, dancing, yoga or pilates. It can even be washing the car, or mopping and vacuuming rooms at home. Try to do these types of activity at least twice a week, advises Sara, and incorporate them into your regular routine. But what if you’ve had surgery or have an ongoing health problem? Norman Brown is a personal trainer with the Nuffield Health organisation which runs fitness and well-being centres around the country. Norman delivers a special recovery programme for people who have had surgery and, at 61, understands how ageing can affect our desire to exercise. “If, like me, you are considering reducing your career time to restore the work-life balance or approaching retirement then are there are some important points to consider,” he says.

“Undertaking exercise is probably the best decision you have made because it holds the answer to many of the all-toocommon health risks today. Improving your aerobic fitness will give you more energy, improving your circulatory system, relieving stress and improving sleep. “Exercise will also help to reduce high cholesterol, lower blood pressure and control blood sugar balance.” As well as, say, walking every day, light gardening or a visit to a gym, Norman suggests a regime of strength training: 10 wall squats, 10 wall press-ups, from the floor practise getting up 5 times and do 1 minute of stair-climbing. If you have had hip, back or knee surgery, adds Norman, always follow your post-operative rehabilitation plan provided by your physiotherapist. Going along to a sports centre for regular sessions or to a gym can also easily become an enjoyable social outing where you meet other like-minded people. Having a chat with someone else as you try out the gym’s rowing machine or bike is another positive side-effect of exercise, and there are always experts on hand to ensure you exercise correctly and for your fitness level. Reach your fitness goals at the LivingWell Gym. Set in a beautiful country house in 25 acres of grounds, Hilton St Anne’s Manor, Bracknell, is a stunning hotel only 20 minutes from Reading. Providing the all-important leisure arm of the hotel, LivingWell facilities include a gym, exercise classes, steam room, 14-metre pool and Jacuzzi, and after all that working out a little respite in The Escape Spa with treatments from ESPA and Jessica product houses is certainly deserved. Then enjoy afternoon tea, lunch or light refreshments in the traditional atmosphere, soft lighting and intimate booths of the Omnia restaurant, whilst appreciating the garden views from the conservatory.

! FREE DAY AT LIVINGWELL GYM AND 30% DISCOUNT OFF FOOD & BEVERAGE Offer to all 50 Plus Magazine readers – Come and find out for yourself how the LivingWell Gym can help you achieve your health and fitness goals plus 30% off food and drink when taken in Omnia Lounge and Restaurant on the day you attend. Name .................................................Tel No ................................................................................................................................. Address .........................................................................................................................................................................................

LivingWell Gym, Hilton St Anne’s Manor, Bracknell - London Road, Wokingham RG40 1ST. Call and reserve your place on 0118 977 3082. Offer on for limited time, so get in touch today. *Subject to availability at the time of booking.

Steady Steps: Falls Prevention exercise programme What is the Steady Steps programme? Some older people may be reluctant to seek help and advice about falls prevention from their GP and other support services because they believe that their concerns will not be taken seriously. However, all healthcare professionals take falls in older people very seriously because of the serious impact that falls can have. As a result, a great deal of help and support towards preventing falls is available for older people.

Research has shown that older people who take part in regular strength and balance training are less likely to have a fall. The Steady Steps Falls Prevention Programme is an exercise initiative for people who have fallen or are at risk of falling. The programme is an NHS Berkshire West and Wokingham Borough Council led project and is closely based on a scheme already established in West Berkshire.

Steady Steps is designed to get those who have fallen back on their feet and prevent further falls by improving balance, co-ordination, muscular strength, flexibility and confidence.

How does the Steady Steps programme work? Once you have been referred by your GP/ Health Professional, you will be assessed by the Steady Steps Co-ordinator (based at Wokingham Borough Council) who will establish whether you are suitable for the programme. The exercise class is based in a local leisure centre or community based setting and is led by a Postural Stability Instructor. The class will comprise of a warm up with mobility, strengthening session, balance and co-ordination exercises and will finish with a Tai Chi and relaxation section. Steady Steps co-ordinator Claire Osler says: “Trips, slips and falls can often lead to injuries that need hospital treatment and even hospital stays - these can lead to loss of conﬁdence and independence. However these sorts of accidents are avoidable and the Steady Steps classes are good places to learn how to prevent them.”

Falls Prevention Programme Steady Steps is a Falls Prevention Exercise Programme for people aged 60 and over who have fallen or who are at risk of falling. The Specialist Exercise Sessions are designed to improve: • Balance • Co-ordination • Muscle Strength • Conﬁdence • Well Being Participants will need to be referred onto the programme via their GP.

For more information on Steady Steps please contact the Steady Steps Co-ordinator on 0118 9746265 or email: Steady.steps@wokingham.gov.uk

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SHINE

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50+ Physical Activity Programme

SHINE is a physical activity programme for over 50s run by Wokingham Borough Council, offering a wide variety of fun sports and exercise sessions. The sessions are a chance to socialise, meet new people and get fit and active.

SHINE Classes on Offer • Archery • Aquacise • Badminton • Gym and Swim • Line Dancing • Latino Dance • Tai Chi

• Yoga • Pilates • Zumba • Seated Exercise • Standing Exercise • Short Mat Bowls • Nordic Walking

New SHINE membership starts from 1st April 2013 and ends March 2014. Members Benefits: Members Rates for SHINE Classes Priority Booking Quarterly Newsletter Discounts and Special Offers with Local Businesses

For more information about SHINE, contact 0118 9743726 or email shine@wokingham.gov.uk. Details of current classes are listed at www.wokingham.gov.uk/shine

HOW TO LOVE FOOD AND LOSE WEIGHT The Bikers set out to discover how to enjoy the best great British food at home, creating new dishes and adapting some culinary treasures to make them and us fitter for life. THE HAIRY DIETERS: How to Love Food and Lose Weight includes a healthy eating plan with mouth-watering recipes for eating at home, eating out, and of course, entertaining. It is filled with all the dishes that have made Si King and Dave Myers two of the nation’s favourite cooks. From perfect pies, curries, roast dinners and delicious desserts, the Hairy Dieters prove that cooking without the calories doesn’t have to compromise on taste.

LEAN LAMB HOTPOT We’ve always loved this simple old-fashioned dish and this is our new-wave version - who’d have thought it? By trimming the meat well and reducing the amount of potatoes, we’ve made this lower in calories than the trad recipe. Makes a cracking supper on a cold day, served with lots of green veg.

SERVES 4 700g well-trimmed lamb leg meat (or leg steaks) 2 tsp sunflower oil 2 medium onions, peeled and thinly sliced 5 medium carrots, peeled and thickly sliced (about 300g prepared weight) 3 tbsp plain flour 600ml lamb stock, made with 1 lamb stock cube 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 tsp dried thyme 1 rosemary stalk or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce flaked sea salt freshly ground black pepper Potato topping 3 medium potatoes (about 500g)

Trim any visible fat off the lamb and cut the meat into rough 3cm chunks. Season generously all over with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan and fry the lamb in 2 batches over a medium-high heat until nicely browned on all sides. Transfer the browned meat to a medium casserole dish - it will need to hold about 2.5 litres. Tip the onions and carrots into the pan with the lamb and sprinkle with the flour. Toss everything together well, then pour over the stock and add the thyme leaves, rosemary and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.

438 calories per portion

Preheat the oven to 170oC/Fan 150oC/Gas 31/2. Peel the potatoes and cut them into slices about 5mm thick. Arrange the slices on top of the lamb, overlapping and layering them as you go. Season with ground black pepper and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Bake the hotpot for 1 hour, then remove the lid and bake for a further 45 minutes or until the potatoes are nicely browned and the lamb is tender. Check by poking with the point of a knife into the centre of the lamb filling - if the meat is done the knife should slide in easily. Serve with freshly cooked greens.

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SALMON WITH CHILLI GINGER SAUCE Oily fish such as salmon, is a great choice when you’re watching your weight, but bear in mind that it contains more calories than white fish. It’s a highquality protein, so fills you up, and it is delicious especially when teamed with this sticky, tangy sauce. You need to allow time for the fish to marinate for 30 minutes but once that is done, this is quick and easy to prepare. SERVES 4 2 balls of stem ginger in syrup (and 2 tablespoons of the syrup) 3 garlic cloves 3 tbsp dark soy sauce finely grated zest of 1/2 well-scrubbed orange freshly squeezed juice of 1 orange (about 125ml) 1/2 long red chilli, thinly sliced 4 x 125 -150g salmon fillets, skin on freshly ground black pepper Put the ginger balls on a board and slice them thinly. Pile up the slices from each ball and cut through them to make thin matchstick strips. Put these in a bowl that’s large enough to hold the salmon and add 2 tablespoons of the stem ginger syrup from the jar. Peel the garlic cloves and slice them thinly, then add them to the bowl with the ginger. Stir in the soy sauce, orange zest, orange juice and red chilli.

254 calories per portion

Put the salmon in the bowl with the marinade. Season with lots of ground black pepper and turn a couple of times, ending with the fish skin side up. Cover and chill for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 220oC/Fan 200oC/Gas 7. Line a small baking tray with baking parchment. Take the salmon fillets out of the marinade scraping off any bits and pieces, and place them on the tray, skin side down. Season with more ground black pepper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. While the salmon is cooking, prepare the sauce. Pour the marinade into a small non-stick saucepan and bring to the boil. Cook for 6 minutes or until the liquid has reduced and the garlic is softened. You need enough of the marinade to pour over the salmon but not swamp it completely. Put the salmon fillets on warmed plates, carefully lifting off the skin as you go. Spoon the hot sauce over the salmon and serve with a small portion of rice or new potatoes and some steamed or stir-fried vegetables.

PLUM RICE PUDDING Those little pots of rice pudding you can buy in supermarkets make a nice sweet treat, but they are expensive and they contain lots of sugar. It’s so much cheaper to make your own and really easy. Eat the rice pudding on its own or topped with a fruity compote. We like plums, but use any lightly stewed fruit you like - apples, pears and summer berries all work well. SERVES 4 100g pudding rice 400ml semi-skimmed milk 200ml cold water 1/4 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp caster sugar (preferably golden) Compote 3 ripe plums, stoned and quartered 6 tbsp cold water 1 tsp caster sugar (preferably golden)

134 calories per portion Put the rice, milk, water and vanilla extract in a medium non-stick saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over a medium heat. Cook for 16-18 minutes or until the rice is tender (with compote) and the sauce is creamy, stirring regularly. Don’t forget that it will continue to thicken as it cools, so add a little extra water if serving cold. Stir frequently towards the end of the cooking time as the mixture will be thickening up. Sweeten with a little caster sugar and serve warm or chilled with or without the topping. To make the compote topping, put the plums, water and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring gently, until the plums are softened but still holding their shape. Add a little extra water if you need. Spoon the rice pudding into tumblers or dessert dishes and top with the plum compote. Delicious warm or cold.

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Licence to thrill Brendan Cole talks to Angela Kelly

When I met BRENDAN Cole he had just gone out of the most recent series of TV’s “Strictly Come Dancing” after partnering Olympic cyclist Victoria Pendleton for eight weeks so – obviously – it seemed he might have time on his hands to relax. “Relax? What’s that?!” he asked in those pleasantly abrasive Kiwi tones that viewers have come to love and judges to fear. “We’re straight into rehearsals for the Christmas special and there’s no rest, but I’m partnering Kelly Brook so that’s great.” Brendan and Kelly danced together in the popular programme’s fifth series and were favourites to win. Sadly, Kelly’s father died suddenly and, although she had wanted to carry on dancing in his memory, she found she just couldn’t and left the series. “It’s lovely being back with Kells again,” he added, warmly. “But with that and a few other things at the moment as well as planning for my theatre tour, it’s pretty hectic.” One of the “few other things” currently occupying the 36 year-old’s time and mind is the birth of his first child. Wife, former model Zoe, was pictured just days before at a starry event looking beautiful and very pregnant. “Yes, we’re really looking forward to the baby coming,” said Brendan. “It’s due in about a month and, no, we don’t know whether it’s a boy or a girl – we’re happy to wait.” Brendan describes himself as “very family orientated” and it’s plain when he talks about growing up in Christchurch, New Zealand, that he enjoys family life and can’t wait to be a Dad. All of which, if we are to believe the media hype that has sprung up around the dancer as Strictly ‘bad boy’ is out of character, surely? 28

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INTERVIEW He had a definite departure from the “Strictly” format in January, 2010, however, when the debut of his own theatre tour – “Live and Unjudged” - written and directed by him went on tour. “It suited me,” he stated. “I loved the format and being so close to the audience.” Audiences obviously loved him as well as this was a great success. Now, he’s followed it up with another tour, that started in January, 2013, and called “Licence To Thrill” which promised to be as fascinating as its title. “That came from it being 50 years of James Bond and from one of the big songs we’re doing, Gladys Knight’s ‘Licence To Kill’ from the Bond film, so we thought that would set the tone for the show,” added Brendan. The 32-date tour took in everywhere from Cornwall to Carlisle and Blackpool to Basingstoke, involving 14 musicians and six world-class dancers. “We haven’t started rehearsals yet,” he stated, “because we’ve got people coming from all over the world.” This includes leading lady Fauve Hauto from France – “Audiences will love her because she’s fabulous,” insisted Brendan. “The first time I saw her I was mesmerised and so will they be.” There’s also Australian dancer Melanie Hooper and Germany’s Patrick Helm not to mention Brendan’s brother, Scott, in the two-hour dance and big band extravaganza. “It’s unlike ‘Strictly’ in that it’s a very intimate experience for the audience,” said Brendan. “If people go out from it not having enjoyed it all, I’ll be very disappointed.”

“No, I’m quite a relaxed sort of guy, really,” he assured me. “I’m just passionate about what I do.” Certainly, Brendan’s love of dancing and genuine talent for it shine through. In fact, you suspect that’s always been the case since he started dancing at the age of six. He worked as a builder and danced as an amateur with Camilla Dallerup from 1996, then from 2002-2004 the couple danced as professionals and achieved success. The pair joined “Strictly” when it began in 2004 and since then Brendan has been partnered with a variety of celebrities with varying degrees of success. In the first season, he famously partnered newsreader Natasha Kaplinsky and won. After that he danced with “Casualty” star Sarah Manners, then with GMTV’s Fiona Phillips and then actress Claire King. Supermodel Lisa Snowdon was his partner for the sixth series and Ronnie Wood’s estranged wife, Jo, danced with him in series seven. “I say ‘danced’ but most of the time all we did was have lunch!’ recalled Brendan, laughing happily at the memory. Brendan is kinder about some of his partners than others, but plainly enjoyed dancing with Victoria Pendleton who blossomed under his tutelage. He had predicted that they would last around eight weeks and did just that, but the athlete was generous in her praise of her professional partner and the friendly partnership appears mutual.

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The Bond theme resonates with Mr Cole because he’s a lover of fast cars. So would he like to take the lead if they made “James Bond – The Musical”? “I’m a Kiwi – I don’t think they’d let me,” he laughed again. “Mind you, I’ve got some Scottish ancestry, so you never know.” Ask the lanky Kiwi who his dream partner would be and he immediately says “Natalie Portman – but don’t tell my wife!” When I point out that she’s rather a petite dancer to partner, he stated “that would be ideal – then I could throw her about!” Brendan’s genuine love of dancing is evident in everything he does, and he believes that “Strictly” has made the general public much more knowledgeable about dancing, too. However, he insists that he’s really “an entertainer – that’s what I do” and maybe when all the dancing stops he’d still like to continue entertaining audiences. As to Cole junior, if it’s a boy, would he be happy if he were a dancer? “I’d rather he was a golfer – then he could keep his old man!” he says. And with another chuckle at the thought, and a very polite “thank you” for our pleasant interview, Brendan Cole – former bad boy of ballroom and now entertainer extraordinaire – returned to his busy day and yet more dazzling dance routines to plan.

New Council Tax Support from 2013 New government rules from 1 April 2013 mean that the national Council Tax Benefit scheme will be abolished from 31 March 2013 to be replaced by new forms of local support. Each council which currently administers council tax benefit on behalf of the government (DWP) will have to create and adopt its own local scheme. Local people have been consulted and the councillors have the final say. Each scheme only lasts a year and has to be renewed on an annual basis. At the same time, councils have to be aware of costs and have to make 10% savings compared to the previous scheme.

What does this mean for you? If you already get council tax benefit, and you are classed as ‘of pensionable age’, you will be protected from the effects of the changes and get benefit on the same basis as now. You will be notified of this in March 2013 when the new council tax bills are produced and sent out as normal. If you already get council tax benefit, and you are of ‘working age’, your benefit will be transferred to the new scheme but you may be slightly worse off and have some/more council tax to pay even if you haven’t had to pay towards your Council Tax in the past. You will be notified of this in March 2013 when the new council tax bills are produced and sent out as normal. You may need to contact the local council Revenues Section to change or start an agreement to make

council tax payments – Direct Debit is an easy way to do this. If you do not currently receive council tax benefit but think you may need financial help to pay your council tax because you are on a low income, you can apply for council tax benefit now by contacting your local council. If you qualify, the council will automatically consider your claim again for council tax support next April but this may be a less generous scheme. If you need help in the future after April 2013, you can apply for council tax support by contacting your local council at any time.

What is council tax support like? In most cases it will be very like council tax benefit with a few slight changes to address local needs and costs. Certainly in the first year it will be very like the means tested benefits we have now. In future years you will need to contact your local council for advice and information as schemes and their rules may differ widely from district to district. Some councils may require you to fill in an application form but they should have details of their schemes and local rules on the council website or in information leaflets.

For further information Call : The Benefit Customer Service Helpline is 01189 372 824 Alternatively you can e-mail us: benefits@reading.gov.uk or visit our website: www.reading.gov.uk

The following changes will not e

The Government is introducing limits on how much benefit some groups of people can receive from April 2013 Overall Benefit Cap This will be based on the total weekly benefit income received by the household. For a working age single adult with no children, the maximum will be ÂŁ350 per week. For working age couples or single parents, the maximum will be ÂŁ500 per week. This includes benefits like Housing Benefit, JSA and Income Support. The following groups will not be affected - people of Pension Credit age, people claiming working tax credit, war widows/ widowers, or people receiving Disability Living Allowance, Carers Allowance, or the support component of ESA. If you are likely to be affected, Jobcentre Plus will contact you to give you more information.

Social Housing size restriction Working age households may see a reduction in Housing Benefit if they live in rented accommodation where the landlord is a Council or Housing Association and they have more bedrooms than they need. Housing Benefit will be reduced by 14% if you have one extra bedroom or 25% if you have more than one extra bedroom. The bedrooms you need are calculated as follows: Each person/couple is entitled to one bedroom, Except:

Example: Single parent, with 17 year old son, and two 12 year old daughters. = 1 bedroom for parent, 1 bedroom for son, one bedroom for daughters = 3 bedrooms. Couple with son aged 15 and son aged 11 = 1 bedroom for parents, and one for children as both same gender and under 16 = 2 bedrooms. When son is aged 16, the bedroom allowance would increase to 3. Single parent with son aged 7 and daughter aged 9. = 1 bedroom for parent, and 1 for children under 10 regardless of gender. When daughter is aged 10, the bedroom allowance would increase to 3. If you think this may affect you, you should contact your landlord to ask about moving to a smaller property.

For further information Reading One: Connect through your Sky, Telewest or NTL Interactive Service to access local information from RBC regarding Benefits and ordering forms. Call : The Benefit Customer Service Helpline is 01189 372 824 Alternatively you can e-mail us: benefits@reading.gov.uk or visit our website: www.reading.gov.uk

l Children under 16 of same gender expected to share l Children under 10 expected to share regardless of gender l Disabled tenant or partner who needs non resident overnight carer will be allowed an extra room

effect anyone of pensionable age

Need a new hip or knee? Returning to mobility In the 21st Century we have noticed that people are living longer and life expectancy for both men and women over the years with improved medical technology and better care, has improved dramatically.

Hip Replacements

need a HIp replaceMent?

People who need hip replacements usually get pain – predominantly in the groin, thigh and knee needing regular analgesia, they may wake up with pain during the night and need painkillers to get back to sleep, they may be unable to walk more than a quarter of a mile, find it difficult to put their shoes or socks on or have difficulty Don’t move until you’ve talked to an expert. This means we need our joints to work longer getting out of the car. however, our joints wear out as we are more active and atmore BMIsporting you will always see an experienced consultant surgeon do activities. Hip replacements can be performed for a variety of because we only work with experienced consultant surgeons. reasons but the most common reason is osteoarthritis As a consequence, hip and knee replacements have (when the joint is worn out over a period of years). developed since 928 the 1960s over 150,000 hip and call 08000 682 and to book an appointment. Other conditions needing a hip replacement could be knee operations are performed in the UK every year. rheumatoid arthritis (when the immune system attacks visit www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/pmh to find out These give a new lease of life to many people in terms the lining of the joint resulting in pain and stiffness), ofmore, returning back to mobility pains finance. from including detailsand of alleviating our flexible septic arthritis (when the joint becomes infected), arthritic joints. Paget’s disease (affecting bone growth) and bone tumours. Hip replacements have been carried out in a BMI The Princess Margaret Hospital osborne road, Windsor, Berkshire sl4 3sJ

BMI HealtHcare Is tHe largest prIvate HospItal group In tHe uK. cds03477

H E A LT H variety of age groups ranging from ages 30 to 95 but most are performed on patients in their 60s and 70s. If you have a hip problem, do speak to your GP first. They will know your history, will examine you and will want you to have an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis - and to make sure you are fit to undergo any major surgery. A physiotherapist may be consulted to improve your mobility and give you walking aids, such as crutches or sticks, which will help you function better without needing to have surgery. However, if all conservative measures and analgesics fail then the only solution is a hip replacement. Prior to the operation you will see a consultant to assess your case, discuss the types of hip replacement available and talk through the risks involved. This is then followed by a visit to the pre-assessment clinic where again the nature of the operation is explained. There is also an assessment from the physiotherapist to discuss your needs after surgery. Patients are normally admitted on the day of surgery and most are expected to go home 3 to 5 days after the operation. Normally you need to be fully mobile and be able to climb up and down stairs. The surgery replaces both the socket and also the rounded ball at the top of the thigh bone with artificial parts. There are various types of hip replacements which depending on each patient can be tailored to your needs.

the assessment initially is from your GP and then is followed up by a specialist and pre-operative clinic. The surgery involves removing the worn out surfaces of the bone of the knee and replacing them with a combination of plastic and metal. The procedure normally lasts an hour and most patients are mobilised the same day with the help of physiotherapy and again are expected to go home within 3-5 days. Post-operatively knee replacements are a bit more painful than hip replacements. Usually by 4-6 weeks after surgery the pain settles down when returning back to normal function. Most knee replacements last between 15 and 20 years.

Waiting for orthopaedic treatment? If you are suffering from joint pain, or are facing a long wait on the NHS for what you need, BMI The Princess Margaret Hospital provides a comprehensive orthopaedic service, comprising a team of consultant orthopaedic surgeons, nursing staff, physiotherapists and consultant radiologists. Treatment at BMI The Princess Margaret Hospital is available to all, whether you have Private Medical Insurance or are looking to self-pay for your treatment.

offer you: SCREENING NOW AVAILABLEWe • Treatment at a time to suit you with no long waiting After the surgery most patients lose their pain within lists few SCREENING hours in the hip but then have surgical pain for AVAILABLE NOW TO awhich CHECK FOR ABDOMINAL • Consultant-led care throughout they are given regular analgesics. Depending on • Rapid access to diagnostic imaging, including MRI, the time of the CHECK surgery, the patient will be mobilised TO FOR ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSMS X-ray or ultrasound either the same day or first thing the next morning. • Professional and friendly nursing staff Usually there are certain restrictions of what you can AORTIC ANEURYSMS • High level of cleanliness and low infection rates. and can’t do following surgery which again would have

Did you know thatataround 1 in 25 men aged between been discussed your pre-admission appointment – this is also reinforced at the time of admission. Most If you would like to know more, please contact 5 and 74*Did haveyou an know abdominal aortic aneurysm without that around 1 in 25 men aged between hip replacements today last 15-20 years but could differ nowing about it?the 65 and 74* have an abdominal aneurysm0808 without101 0381 depending on level of activities, age and theaortic nature of or visit www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/pmh the patient. it? his can beknowing fatal if itabout ruptures.

BMI The Princess Margaret Hospital ThisReplacements can be fatal it ruptures. o get Knee yourself checked out, ifplease call 0808 101 0381 Osborne Road o bookMost an To abdominal aortic aneurysm screen give 101Windsor get yourself checked out, please call 0381 knee replacements in the UK are carried outand for 0808 Berkshire Knee replacements aortic can be either total screen and give SL4 3SJ ourselfosteoarthritis. some reassurance. to book an abdominal aneurysm knee replacement which means replacing all the three yourselfofsome reassurance. compartments the joint, or partial knee replacement,

which means one compartment can be replaced. Candidates needing knee surgery can range from 40 – 95 years of age - again depending on their symptoms and pathology. The process is similar to hip surgery where UK National Screen Committee *UK National Screen Committee

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www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/pmh www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/pmh

27615_1617 27615_1617 15/02/2013 10:42

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening now available at BMI The Princess Margaret Hospital Dr Yaser Naji, Consultant Interventional Radiologist at BMI The Princess Margaret Hospital in Windsor, explains about abdominal aortic aneurysms, the ‘symptoms’, what the screening involves and what treatments are available.

What is Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening? Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening is a simple ultrasound scan to look for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which takes about ten minutes to perform.

What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm? The aorta is the main blood vessel that supplies blood to your body and it runs from your heart down through your chest and abdomen. In some people, as they get older, the wall of the aorta in the abdomen can become weak and it can then start to expand and form what is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm serious? As the wall of the aorta stretches it becomes weaker and could give way. If this happens, the person usually dies. An aorta which is only slightly larger than normal is not dangerous. However, it is still important to know about it so that we can monitor the aneurysm to see if it gets bigger.

need a HIp replaceMent?

Why is screening important?

If you have an aneurysm you will not generally notice any symptoms. This means that you cannot tell if you have one, as you will not feel any pain or notice anything different. We offer How common is the condition? screening so we can find aneurysms early and monitor or treat Don’t move until to an expert. them. This greatly reduces the you’ve chances oftalked the aneurysm causing It is estimated that around 1 in 25 men aged between 65 serious problems. The easiest way to find out if you have an and 74 in England have an abdominal aortic aneurysm. aneurysm is to havewill an ultrasound scan an of your abdomen. consultant surgeon at BMI you always see experienced

What happens if I have a large aneurysm? because weatonly surgeons. Who is most risk?work with experienced consultant If your aorta is 5.5cm wide or bigger, we will refer you If you are a man aged over 65, you are more likely to have an call 08000 928 682 to book an appointment. abdominal aortic aneurysm. Men are six times more likely to visit tooffind out have this www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/pmh type of aneurysm than women.Your chance having an more, abdominal aortic aneurysm if: finance. including detailscan of also ourincrease flexible l You smoke l You have high blood pressure l BMI YourThe brother, or parent Princesssister Margaret Hospitalhas, or has had, an osborne road, Windsor, Berkshire abdominal aortic aneurysm sl4 3sJ

to a specialist team who will discuss possible treatments with you. This can be either an operation or keyhole procedure.

For more information about treatments or to arrange an appointment call 0808 101 0381 or email imaging_pmh@bmihealthcare.co.uk

BMI HealtHcare Is tHe largest prIvate HospItal group In tHe uK. cds03477

SCREENING NOW AVAILABLE TO CHECK FOR ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSMS Did you know that around 1 in 25 men aged between 65 and 74* have an abdominal aortic aneurysm without knowing about it? This can be fatal if it ruptures. To get yourself checked out, please call 0808 101 0381 to book an abdominal aortic aneurysm screen and give yourself some reassurance.

*UK National Screen Committee

www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/pmh 27615_1617

Hearing loss is often misunderstood. There is a common perception that hearing loss means that the sounds in the world around us become quieter and quieter until, eventually, they cannot be heard at all. Or, perhaps, they were never there to begin with if hearing loss has been present since early in life. In reality, these degrees of deafness are comparatively rare. The majority of people suffering from hearing loss will hear plenty of sounds around them and cope satisfactorily in some situations, especially when speaking to someone nearby, face to face, one to one and when it is quiet. The further we move away from these ideal conditions the harder it is to hear – for everyone, whether hearing loss is present or not. If there is sufficient hearing loss present, however, it becomes that much more difficult to hear than the average person and certain sounds and speech, in particular, are often mis-heard or have bits missing. So, much more commonly, hearing loss is more about a lack of clarity, especially when there are other sounds in the background or when the speaker’s face or mouth cannot be seen. The brain will always try to fill in any missing bits of information not transmitted from the ears and, bearing in mind it has to do this quickly enough to keep up with the flow of what is being said, it will sometimes get it right and it will sometimes get it wrong (mis-hearing) which, in turn, may lead to people giving inappropriate responses or getting the wrong end of the stick entirely. This can be humorous but, often, others will interpret this as rudeness or as evidence that the person saying the wrong thing is disinterested in the conversation and not bothering to pay attention. More likely, the person not hearing properly is putting a great deal of effort, even if they are not aware of it, into trying to hear; into trying to fill in the missing bits or work out words that are not clear. This can be very tiring and, eventually, that person will need to take a break and switch off. They are then, essentially, alone, even when with family or friends and even they will carry on the conversation and talk around you if you don’t join in. Tinnitus is a noise perceived in the ears or head that isn’t coming from outside the body; we create it within ourselves. It can take numerous forms, such as ringing, buzzing or hissing. Sometimes it visits us for short periods of time and sometimes it comes and stays – for the rest of our lives and can become more intrusive if we are tired or stressed. It is regarded as a mysterious complaint because no one knows for sure why we get it. There is no known medical cure; no surgery or medication will remedy it. Various “cures” are promoted, especially on the internet, but none has passed standard scientific testing. The most effective treatment for tinnitus is to wear hearing aids, which do not get rid of it but usually, reduce the intensity of the sound or mask it altogether. If you are not sure whether you have hearing loss, some typical types of situations to watch out for are:• • • 36

Often asking others to repeat what they have said. Needing the volume on TV or radio turned up loud. Asking the person with you to tell you what was said by another speaker – at the time or later, when the speaker is not there.

Inside Mary Hare Hearing Centre, Newbury • Laughing because others around you do, even at jokes when you do not hear the punchline. • No longer getting the same enjoyment from social gatherings, including family occasions, where you didn’t feel a part of it or felt left out. • In a car, whether you are driving or a passenger, can you converse successfully with anyone else, back or front? • Struggling to converse in a busy pub or restaurant or at a party, especially when others seem to be coping well in that environment. • Not hearing the doorbell ring or the telephone or the signals on kitchen appliances. • Blaming others for not speaking clearly. If enough people are not speaking clearly, look for the common denominator; maybe someone is not hearing clearly. If any of these seem familiar, you should have your hearing checked by an audiologist. Many people not hearing well will believe that it must be due to wax in the ear canals. The relevance of ear wax to hearing loss is vastly over-rated. Wax can affect our hearing – but, usually it does not; it is neutral. People with hearing loss always hope that wax is the culprit and that clearing it from the ear canals is the answer. Sometimes this is so; sometimes there is a temporary perception of improvement lasting a few days or, perhaps, a week before it is evident that no real improvement has been made; in most cases there is no improvement at all, because the lack of clarity is really due to damage within the inner ear and no amount of wax clearance will rectify that. If you are unsure, get your hearing tested and get advice. This can be done privately or via your GP, who can arrange to have your hearing tested by the NHS. NHS testing is free and so is most of the testing carried out by

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and failed. If done properly, hearing aids will help you hear better and will improve your quality of life. If:• • • • •

you are properly assessed, you are allocated the correct specification of aids, they are set up properly for your personal needs, you are given the right advice and follow it, you have access to proper after care,

you should derive real benefit from your hearing aids and be much more in touch with what is going on around you.

Performing a clean and check service in store private audiologists. Ask when making an appointment and, if a fee is required, you have the option to decline and go somewhere else. What can be done to improve your hearing if hearing loss is identified? Certain losses may be treatable by medication and/or surgery but, for the vast majority the most effective solution will be to wear hearing aids. Do not be discouraged by those who have tried hearing aids

And, finally, do not forget the safety aspect. If you cannot always hear what is going on around you, you are more likely to be startled when people, bicycles and motor vehicles pass close by. You may not hear important alarms. You may miss callers on the telephone or at the door; which is fine if you don’t want to be disturbed but frustrating if the call was from family or friends or one you were expecting and which you needed or wanted to deal with.

If you want your hearing assessed thoroughly and be given impartial and comprehensive advice, you can contact the Mary Hare Hearing Centre in Newbury on 01635 523343 or Newburycentre@maryhare.org.uk

“I’m smiling because they are.”

The Hearing experts

With Tinnitus, it can be difficult to follow conversations particularly in social situations or noisy environments.

If you are - or think you may be - affected

A significant proportion of people affected by Tinnitus also

by Tinnitus, contact your local Mary Hare

have an inner ear hearing impairment and may benefit from

Hearing Centre and see how we could help.

a hearing aid.

✓

Free assessments

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Free aftercare

✓

Latest technology

Tel: 01635 523 343 www.maryharehearingcentres.co.uk

Mary Hare Hearing Centre, 10 Weavers Walk, Northbrook Street, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 1AL 37

Why choose Dentures from a Clinical Dental Technician? What is a Clinical Dental Technician?

Denture Relines

A Clinical Dental Technician or CDT is a registered Dental Care Professional who is trained and qualified to offer a range of Denture Services â&#x20AC;&#x201C; services that were previously only available through your Dentist.

If your dentures tilt, wobble or rub, a Clinical Dental Technician can reline your denture, making the small alterations that make a big difference to the way they fit and feel.

What qualifies a CDT to work on my Dentures? With many years experience working as Dental Technicians, CDTs have the advanced technical and clinical skills needed to carefully design and hand-craft every denture to the individual requirements of the patient. Every Clinical Dental Technician has following credentials: Graduated from the Royal College of Surgeons l Holds a Diploma in Clinical Dental Technology l Is registered with the General Dental Council as a Dental Technician and CDT l Has appropriate insurance to work with patients l

Never seek Denture advice or treatment from someone who is not trained or qualified to practice as a Clinical Dental Technician or Dentist in the UK.

Denture Repairs If your Denture fractures or breaks, the CDT can mend your dentures as follows, making them wearable once more. Repairing cracks or multiple fractures Repairing chipped false teeth l Repairing your Denture base l l

Over time, the shape of your mouth can change as part of the natural ageing process, as a result of the under use and lack of stimulus for your jawbone. If your Dentures break while you are wearing them, it is probably for one of the following reasons: l l

Complete Dentures If you are experiencing the total loss of all your natural teeth, a Clinical Dental Technician can help you. As well as taking its toll on daily activities like eating, talking and even laughing, total tooth loss can impact heavily on selfesteem and quality of life. A CDT will create and fit the Complete Denture that replaces your missing teeth and adjacent tissue in your lower and upper jaws. A CDT can help you find the Complete Dentures that will: Help you to form sounds and bring new clarity to your speech l Feel more secure about eating the food you want l Countering sagging facial muscles and sunken features that can make you appear older (especially around your mouth, lips and cheeks) l

Please be aware that a Denture Reline will normally require that you leave your dentures with your Clinical Dental Technician so be prepared to be without them for a short period of time.

Poor fit as a result of bone resorbtion (shrinkage) Excessive force possibly due to tooth grinding

If you would like your new dentures to replicate all the favourable aspects of your existing Dentures, then a Clinical Dental Technician can help you. From copying exact tooth position and shape, to improving the way they fit with your mouth and gums â&#x20AC;&#x201C; your Copy Dentures will be just like the Dentures you have now, only better.

Beautiful Smile

The Berkshire Dental Laboratory

3 High quality new dentures 3 Strongest & most natural materials 3 Relines, copy dentures, chrome dentures 3 Repairs while-u-wait, free consultation Partial Dentures 3 All work guaranteed If one or several of your teeth are lost or missing, a CDT can help you restore your smile with a Partial Denture. By replacing 3 Close to Reading West Station, your individual missing teeth, Partial Dentures can give you walking distance from town centre The Berkshire Dental Laboratory back the look and function of a full set of healthy, natural teeth. 3 On a main bus route 3 High quality new dentures 3 Close to Reading West Station, 3 Off road parking As well as replacing any missing teeth, Partial Dentures also look after the future health of your3mouth by preventing 3 VAT FREE Strongest & mostyour natural materials walking distance from town centre remaining teeth from rotating, tilting and moving into positions We are Dental Technicians 3 Relines, copy dentures, chromeregistered dentures 3 On a main bus route with the that prove unsightly and awkward for eating and talking.

3 Repairs while-u-wait, free consultation

Depending upon your individual needs and preferences, your 3 dentures. All work guaranteed CDT may recommend Chrome Cobalt

3 Off road parking 3 VAT FREE

We are Dental Technicians registered with the Following your initial consultation, a Clinical Dental Technician Call. will assess your mouth and develop a personal treatment plan. Working with a Dentist, they will identify possible problems. Email. any enquiries@berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk Email: enquiries@berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk In this way, your Denture will be designed correctly and for the long-term, and ensure that you receive the highest standards of care and the right treatment for you and your teeth. The Berkshire DentalRG1 Laboratory, The Berkshire Dental Laboratory, 51a Lorne Street, Reading 7YW

0118 958 2226 Call:

0118 958 2226

51a Lorne Street, Reading RG1 7YW www.berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk

www.berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk 38

Smile! yourteeth teethfixed xed xedinin in Smile! Get your Budapest and Budapest and save save£1000s £1000s £1000s

InIn2013 the dental tourism industry is set 2013 thethe dental tourism industry is is set In 2013 dental tourism industry totocontinue to grow with more and more continue to grow with more and more set to continue to grow with more and people traveling totoBudapest in people traveling Budapest in Hungary Hungary more people travelling to Budapest in totohave their teeth  xed. have their teeth  xed. Hungary to have their teeth fixed. In 2012 Treatment Abroad Medical InIn2012 the Treatment Abroad Medical 2012 thethe Treatment Abroad Medical Tourism Survey revealed that 20,000 Tourism Survey revealed that 20,000 Tourism Survey revealed that 20,000 people from UK travelled overseas people from the UK travelled overseas people from thethe UK travelled overseas for dental treatment. for fordental dentaltreatment. treatment. Budapest has long been established as Budapest haspopular long established as Budapest longbeen been established as the mosthas destination in Europe the most dental destination in thebecause mostpopular popular dental destination in of the high standards of dental Europe because ofthe the high standards standards Europe of high care,because the rigorous training and education dental care, the rigorous training and ofofdental care, the rigorous training and of Hungarian dentists, and the huge education of Hungarian dentists, and the the education dentists, savingsof onHungarian offer to UK patients.and hugesavings savingson onoffer offerto toUK UK patients. patients. huge Direct flights are available from Manchester, Leeds, Bristol, Edinburgh Direct ightsare are available from Direct ights available from and London for as little as £60 return. Manchester, Leeds, Bristol, Edinburgh Manchester, Leeds, Bristol, Edinburgh

and London for as as little little as as £60 £60 return. return. and London for Kreativ Dental Clinic is the most advanced dental clinic in Hungary, Kreativ Dental Clinic is isits thepatients most with Kreativ Dental Clinic the most dedicated to providing advanced dental clinic in Hungary, advanced dental clinic in Hungary, the highest quality of care at prices that dedicated to providing providing its patients with to patients with are on average 50% toits 70% cheaper the highest quality of care care at at prices pricesthat that than in thequality UK. of are on average 50% 50% to to 70% 70% cheaper cheaperthan than inThe theKreativ UK. Dental Team are specialists in Dental Implants, Artificial Bone Replacement, SinusTeam Lifting, The Kreativ Dental Dental Team arePorcelain specialists are specialists Crowns, Bridgework, Veneers, Root in Dental Implants, Implants, Arti Articial cial Bone Bone Canal Treatment and Periodontal Replacement, Sinus Sinus Lifting, Lifting, Porcelain Porcelain Surgery.Bridgework, Crowns, Bridgework, Veneers, Veneers, Root Root Treatment and Periodontal Canal and Periodontal UK aftercare is provided for all patients Surgery. and their guarantee is the strongest available in Budapest. UK aftercare is provided provided for for all all patients patients and their guarantee is the strongest guarantee is the strongest available in Budapest. Budapest.

How much can Howmuch muchcan canI Isave? Isave? save? How Th year old saved male saved more than £9000 Thisis32 patient more than £9000 This patient saved more than £9000

Facedwith withunaffordable unaffordable quotes Faced quotes in in thethe UKUK or or Th e same treatment in the UK can cost over the prospect wearing unwanted dentures, the prospect of of wearing unwanted dentures, thisthis £16,000. The patient received multiple high patienttravelled travelled Kreativ Dental received patient to to Kreativ Dental andand received quality dental implants, and full upper and lower multiplehigh high quality dental implants, multiple quality dental implants, andand fullfull porcelain crown and bridge work at the Kreativ upper and lower porcelain crown bridge upper and lower porcelain crown andand bridge Dental Clinic in Budapest. work. work.

Reader Offer Offer:: Consultation, Consultation, Hotel Reader Hotel & & Flight Flight Package Package FREETwo Twonight night stay stay at at aa 44 Star Star Hotel Hotel ••FREE FREEConsultation Consultation and and Treatment Treatment Plan Plan ••FREE • Flight Ticket reimbursed* • Flight Ticket reimbursed*

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Kreativ Dental Clinic Kreativ Dental Clinic Tel: 0203 2879 331 Tel: 0203 2879 331

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Who are the victims of Benefit Fraud? YOU ARE ! We’re closing in

Housing Benefit helps many people on low incomes. Sadly there are many people who claim when they are not entitled. These people make fraudulent claims by: l l l l l

Withholding information Exaggerating details Forgetting to report changes Overlooking savings or investments Setting out to commit fraud

This could be: l l l l

Working and not declaring this income Claiming as a single person but living with a partner. Claiming for an address, but not living there. Not fully declaring financial position at start of claim.

The actions of these people affect every man, woman & child in the UK.

BLOW THE

We all have a moral duty to report Benefit Fraud, to protect your Hospitals, Schools and Local Services

If you suspect someone of benefit fraud in Reading call us in confidence :

WHISTLE ON

© CROWN COPYRIGHT 2009. Copyright in the content, and typographical arrangement rests Crown. © CROWN COPYRIGHT 2009. Copyright in the content, designdesign and typographical arrangement restswith withthethe Crown.

NRP REFEREE-RBC-A42.pdf 1 10/05/2012 13:28

UT O K A E SP

IONS USPIC AVE S H U O If y

UT O K A E SP

IONS SUSPIC E V A H IF Y OU

BLOW THETHE HOUSING BLOW WHISTLE ON WHISTLECHEATS ON

HOUSING HOUSING

CHEATS

When somebody with a council or housing association home rents it out

without permission or obtains a home through providing false information, they

When somebody withare aguiltycouncil orTheyhousing of housing fraud. are using up valuable housing spaces and depriving families and vulnerable people on the waiting list. It’s not fair. association home rents it out without permission or TNS If you suspect someone of unlawfully sub-letting U O K obtains a home through providing false information, call us on 0500 500 777 or SIfPyOEU AHAVE SUSPICIO report online www.reading.gov.uk/fraud they are guilty of housing fraud. They are using up Your report will be treated in the strictest confidence and can be given anonymously. valuable housing When somebody with a council or housing association home rents it out spaces and depriving families and without permission or obtains a home through providing false information, they vulnerable people on the waiting list. It’s not fair. are guilty of housing fraud. They are using up valuable housing spaces and

CHEATS

depriving families and vulnerable people on the waiting list. It’s

not fair.

If you suspect someone of unlawfully subwithout permission or obtainscall a home through letting us providing false information, they call us on 0500 500 777 or When somebody with a council or housing association home rents it out If you suspect someone of unlawfully sub-letting report online

are guilty of housing fraud. They are using up valuable housing spaces and www.reading.gov.uk/fraud

list. It’s not fair. Your report will be waiting treated in the strictest confidence and If you suspect someone of unlawfully sub-letting can be given anonymously. call us on 0500 500 777 or report online www.reading.gov.uk/fraud

depriving families and vulnerable people on the Your report will be treated in the strictest confidence and can be given anonymously.

We are committed to fighting fraudulent activity Your report will be treated in the strictest conﬁdence and can be given anonymously.

The Blue Badge (Disabled Parking) Scheme currently has around 2.5m badges issued Nationally, to eligible applicants. Blue Badge fraud is estimated to cost the UK £46 million per year!

The Investigation Team are committed to ﬁghting fraudulent activity but need your help to do so! If you suspect someone of committing Blue Badge fraud please call us in confidence.

CALL 0500 500 777 or report online www.reading.gov.uk/fraud