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THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s OCTOBER/DECEMBER 2014

Dawn French The Queen of British Comedy

Rick Stein’s Indian Odyssey Recipes

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Offering advice on the issue of flexible working

Your Will and Digital Assets

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CROWNS HOMES

by Jason

I have been creating beautiful homes for over 25 years and get most of my work by referral. Perhaps it’s because I offer ranges to suit all tastes, or maybe it’s the way I walk my customers through the design process which enables me to understand and deliver to their expectations.

Whether it’s a traditional, bespoke or a contemporary design I can advise you and help you get the most from your budget. I also offer a large range of quality kitchen units from Crown Imperial, including appliances and a full range of worktops, including solid surface.

I provide full renovations as part of a complete project, including all building work. Me and my team can even take care of electrical work, gas, plastering, tiling and specialist flooring to assure a quality end result to your project, with a dedicated workforce all overseen by myself with a very long list of happy customers, all willing to give references.

A kitchen/bathroom/home renovation should be an exciting and satisfying project. All our customers agree that with our help and enthusiasm you can achieve your dream.

254 Silverdale Road, Reading, Berkshire RG6 7NB Tel: 0118 935 3275 | 07411 489703 jason@crowns-kitchens.com

FOR ALL YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENT NEEDS

www.crowns-kitchens.com

CONTENTS 6-7

Venice from the Water ...

Spectacular from any Angle

12-13 Staying Fit and Healthy...

The benefits of regular exercise can make

retirement more pleasurable

inside...

16-17 Dawn French ...

The Queen of British Comedy 18-19 A loving companion ...

A constant friend to share daily life with 30-31 Rick Stein ...

In search of the Perfect Curry 23-26 Out and About ...

Places to Visit and things to Do

6-7 12-13

32

Reasons to get crafting ...

Try your hand at some creative paper craft

16-17

39

Cutting edge technology ...

Wireless hands free listening.

McGrath Media.

Unit 6 | Moses Gate Workshops Gladys Street | Bolton | BL3 2QG. T: (01204) 796 494 | F: (01204) 791594

30-31

e: mcgrathadmin@btconnect.com

Keep Warm and Well this Winter The cold weather mixed with the loss of sunlight after the clocks go back can lead to some people feeling ill and under the weather. However there are a few simple steps that you can take to prepare for the cold weather and reduce the risk of becoming ill.

1. Get your free flu jab – if you are over 65 years old, pregnant, have certain medical conditions live in a residential home or nursing home or are the main carer for an older or disabled person you are entitled to a free flu jab. There is also the offer of flu vaccines to all 2-4 year olds as well. Contact your GP or pharmacist if you think you are entitled to a free jab

3. Wear lots of light layers and shoes that have a good grip if you need to go outside

2. Keep warm – set your heating to the right temperature (18-21ᵒC)

6. Look after yourself and check on older neighbours or relatives to make sure they are safe, warm and well

4. Make sure you eat healthily - have hot meals and drinks regularly throughout the day and keep as active in the home as you can 5. Get financial support – there are benefit sources available to make your home more energy efficient

Cold snaps can have dramatic effects on everyone’s lives so it is good to keep up to date with the weather. The met office provides forecasts on radio and the TV as well providing weather warnings on their website (www.metoffice.gov.uk), twitter feed (@metoffice) or their weather desk which you can call on 0870 900 0100 or 01392 885680.

For more information about how to keep warm and well this winter please see the NHS winter health webpages - http://www.nhs.uk/livewell/winterhealth/Pages/Winterhealthhome.aspx or contact Wokingham’s public health team on public.health@wokingham.gov.uk or www.wokingham.gov.uk/winterhealth

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TWITTERING ON

Doggone Silly American pet shop owner Dorothy Hunter is eating nothing but dog and cat food for a month to prove how nutritious it is.

Hunter owns the Paw’s Natural Pet Emporium in Washington and is prepared to prove her pet food is natural and healthy.

She started her pet food diet in June and stayed on it for a month.

She told the Tri-City Herald: “You’d be surprised how tasty dog and cat food can be when it’s made right.”

It hasn’t taken long for her unique month-long diet to generate the publicity it was clearly designed for.

Great Escape Security has been tightened up at a Nottingham school after pupils used stolen cutlery to tunnel their way out in a Great Escape style incident.

Five students used knives, forks and spoons from the canteen to dig their way under a 15ft metal fence at the Djanogly City Academy.

All of the escapees are said to be under 14-years-old and have been “spoken to” about their bid for freedom.

Acting headteacher Elaine Crookes said: “We can confirm that five pupils tried to leave the school at lunchtime by getting below the fence on the fields at our Gregory Boulevard site.

“We have spoken to the students concerned, and taken action to repair the hole.

“That part of the fence has also been reinforced. Our staff are supervising that area to ensure our students stay safe and in school.”

In an email, assistant head Andy Roach asked staff to be on the lookout for more escape attempts.

Pupils aged under 16 are not allowed out of the grounds without permission during the day.

Graham Smith Twitter Column

I suppose detention would be out of the question!

Freedom of the Press I never had time for the News of the World when it was in print and have certainly not mourned its demise.

When the former Editor of the sleazeball publication, Andy Coulson, was jailed over phone hacking recently my only surprise was at the leniency of the sentence. Their corrupt, malicious practices shamed the profession I was once proud of and it is rare these days that I use the word journalist if asked what I do for a living.

Keeping Cool!

A Chinese dad has made sure his son stays cool in summer by making him a pair of underpants out of a watermelon.

Ruifeng Fan from Taiwan had the idea after his five-year-old son complained about being too hot.

He said: “I gave him a watermelon to eat which is usually the best way to cool down, and after cutting out the inside I suddenly thought that actually

the watermelon itself could probably be used to make a really cool pair of underpants.

“So I cut out two holes for his legs and fitted it with a makeshift pair of braces, and he instantly had the coolest underpants in town.”

In fact the youngster Hao loved the underpants so much, his dad later made him a watermelon hat and watermelon boxing gloves.

Postman Cat A postman had to make a special delivery to an animal rescue home after finding a cat in the back of his red van while delivering mail.

The two-year-old tortoiseshell hitched a 67-mile ride from Southampton to Langley in Berkshire before being found by the real-life Postman Pat. The feline passenger was taken to the Old Windsor Battersea Dogs and Cats Home and named Jess by the staff in honour of Postman Pat’s beloved cat from the children’s TV series.

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Tamara Willis, Battersea Old Windsor’s Cat Rehomer, said: “We have a lot of characters turning up at Battersea, but this week we had our very own Jess the cat.

“Jess probably came from a loving home, but sadly her curiosity must’ve got the better of her before she got into the van and started her 67-mile journey from Southampton to Berkshire.

“Her long journey shows the importance of microchipping your pet as you never know how far they can travel from home.”

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50 Plus Travel

sponsored by

Venice from the Water Gillian Thornton has been a freelance journalist for more than 30 years, writing everything from parenting features to celebrity interviews, corporate copy to heritage articles. A member of the British Guild of Travel Writers, she has been concentrating on travel writing since 1998 ‘I never mind where I go,’ she says. ‘There’s always something new to discover.’ On this trip, Gillian stayed in Venice on a river cruiser with Voyages Jules Verne Eager for my first daylight view of the Venetian lagoon, I jumped out of bed, pulled back the curtains and quickly 6

shut them again as a water bus packed with commuters chugged past the window. Fortunately I was half decent, but when you book a lagoon-view cabin on board the MS Michelangelo, it pays to pack your pyjamas.

Venice is spectacular from any angle, but it’s hard to imagine a more atmospheric or romantic place to stay than on board the river cruise boat MS Michelangelo on the waters of the lagoon. We booked the Venice from the Water package with Voyages Jules Verne, flying to Venice Marco Polo, where a coach collected the group for the half-hour drive to join our vessel at the Maritime Station.

Once everyone was settled, the Michelangelo cruised down the broad

Giudecca Canal, past St Mark’s Square and the Doges’ Palace to the Riva Sette Martiri where it moored for three nights. Given the unique location, we felt it worth paying the small supplements for a lagoon view cabin on the upper deck – you simply can’t put a price on drawing those curtains (carefully!) and watching the flotilla of water vessels from the comfort of your holiday bed.

VJV run ‘Venice from the Water’ on selected dates from spring to Autumn.

We travelled in early November when you obviously take a gamble with the weather, but the chance to see the city without the crowds more than made up for the grey skies.

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TRAVEL- LEISURE Expect to walk if you want to see Venice properly. Hills are obviously not a problem, but there are many small footbridges up and over the canals so flat shoes are a must. From the Michelangelo’s mooring, it’s a delightful 15-minute stroll to St Mark’s Square, and I’d recommend going back at least once after dinner to enjoy the illuminated square and quiet canals at their most tranquil. By day, the cruise-boat tourists who flock to St Mark’s rarely walked up as far as our floating hotel.

The MS Michelangelo is operated by French company Croisi’Europe and we shared it with French and German travellers. Cabins are compact but very comfortable with big picture windows to take advantage of that view, and if you don’t want to pay the lagoon view supplement, the quay option showcases some elegant buildings.

The vessel is immaculately maintained and crew were forever cleaning and polishing, inside and out. We found the multinational staff friendly and efficient, and a lot of effort had clearly gone into the crew entertainment on the final evening in the lounge bar – music, comedy and a modest degree of good-natured audience participation. There was also dancing on two nights to international hits performed by a local singer. Or you can just sit back and watch the others strut their stuff over a drink.

Venice from the Water offers full board with wine, beer and soft drinks included with lunch and dinner. Our party of six had a table to ourselves, but couples and foursomes have to share, so intimate dinners are a nogo. We found the food consistently good rather than great, mostly safe international favourites, but always

well cooked and attractively presented with three courses at lunch and four at dinner. Special dietary requirements need advance notice though as there is no menu choice, which may not suit fussy eaters.

evening in a historic palazzo on their big day, simply through lack of other interest from other passengers. But they were offered – and much enjoyed – an alternative opera concert in a church.

The package includes a morning cruise of the northern lagoon, past the island of Burano to Torcello. On Day 4, the Michelangelo left its mooring before dawn, gliding silently down the lagoon side of the Lido to the working fishing port of Chioggia where we disembarked to experience a couple of hours in a very different kind of town.

But the real star of the show is the city itself. You can’t beat just walking the canals, turning off down tempting backstreets, and soaking up all those glorious buildings and iconic views from the deck of a water bus up the Grand Canal. And at the end of each atmospheric day, we carried on watching the water traffic of the Venice lagoon through the windows of the Michelangelo, right up until the very last moment when we closed the curtains on one of Europe’s most compelling views. Fabulous.

On top of that, there are optional excursions that include the Doges’ Palace, the craft workshops on Murano and Burano, Padua, and a gondola ride. Be aware though that minimum numbers are generally required. One wedding anniversary couple was disappointed to miss the musical

For further information visit www.vjv.com or call 0845 166 7034

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

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

7

Ring for your copy!

barnes Cornwall in Autumn

Hotel Information ROSEMUNDY HOUSE HOTEL 3 star property set in 4 acres of woodland and gardens. In the evenings relax in the bar or cosy snug lounge.

BAR

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GROUND FLOOR ROOMS

With its warm summers and Britain’s mildest climate, St. Ives is perfect for all seasons.

A stone’s throw from the harbour is the old part of the town with a host of narrow streets and passageways.

BAR

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Hotel Information MARRIOTT LIVERPOOL CITY CENTRE 4 star hotel in a fantastic location, set within the art and cultural district overlooking Queen Square.

Price

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17 October

£419 NIL

Price

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20 October

£279 NIL

Hotel Information QUALITY HOTEL, BURY ST. EDMUNDS A well-appointed 3 star hotel on the edge of the charming old town of Bury St. Edmunds.

BAR n SATELLITE TV GROUND FLOOR ROOMS (UP 3 STAIRS)

5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS HALF BOARD Date

Price

27 October

£329 £60

BAR n GROUND FLOOR ROOMS n GYM n SAUNA n STEAM ROOM n SATELLITE TV

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Date

Price

27 October

£419 NIL

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Chatsworth at Christmas, Birmingham Christmas Market & Meadowhall Shopping Centre

Hotel Information SHEFFIELD PARK DOUBLETREE BY HILTON A 4 star hotel located in a quiet, leafy suburb of Sheffield. n

POOL

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BAR n LIFT SATELLITE TV

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POOL n GYM STEAM ROOM

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JACUZZI

Price

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7th November

£289 £60

n

SPA

26 October

£199 £159

£25

Shanklin, Isle of Wight

Date

Price

SS

23rd November

£219 £40

BAR

n

LIFT

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INDOOR POOL

4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS HALF BOARD Date

Price

31 October

£219 NIL

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Thursford Spectacular The Thursford Christmas Spectacular has a £3 million budget and is a 3 hour celebration of the festive season featuring an electric fusion of the seasonal and sacred with famous charttopping pop favourites being sung alongside traditional carols. It is now recognised as being the largest show of its kind in the UK, if not Europe, with a cast of 130 professional singers, dancers and musicians.

Hotel Information BROOK HOTEL 3 star hotel on the outskirts of Norwich. n

3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS HALF BOARD

Date

GYM

SS

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4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS HALF BOARD

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Price Child

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5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS HALF BOARD

A weekend full of all you need to get yourself in the mood and prepared for Christmas whilst based in a luxurious 4 star hotel. This tour ran for the first time in 2012 and was a great success.

Hotel Information MARRIOTT WALTHAM ABBEY 4 star luxury hotel near London with leisure facilities.

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Hotel Information OCEAN VIEW HOTEL A charming, well-appointed hotel, with an idyllic seaside position just a pebble’s throw from Shanklin Beach.

Guy Fawkes London

This is a fascinating tour based around the Guy Fawkes story where we enjoy a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament and we visit the fascinating Royal Gunpowder Mills during their Guy Fawkes Festival.

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Almost half of the island is designated an area of outstanding beauty with a variety of landscapes.

Shanklin has an old village and the famous Chine.

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Inc. Houses of Parliament Tour and Guy Fawkes Festival!

SATELLITE TV

Date

Warners - Bembridge Coast Isle of Wight

We include visits to a brewery where several well-known real ales are produced, see how chocolates are handmade and, straying into Essex, we visit a producer whose jams, marmalades and other products sit on tables throughout the world!

n

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2 DAYS/1 NIGHT HALF BOARD

Date

Suffolk Food & Drink plus Constable Country

n

LIFT

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GROUND FLOOR ROOMS

5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS HALF BOARD

Date

Anfield Stadium Tour with 2 Legends plus National Football Museum Take this opportunity to get to know not one but two legends from the past as you are taken on a Behind the Scenes tour of the team’s worldfamous Anfield Stadium.

Hotel Information LONGSHIPS HOTEL Perfectly situated overlooking the town with views across the bay and coastline. n

6 DAYS/5 NIGHTS HALF BOARD

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Liverpool Legends Day

St. Ives & The Best of Cornwall

Experience all that Cornwall has to offer whilst based in this lovely hotel in the unspoilt village of St. Agnes.

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UK & European 01793 821303 www.barnescoaches.co.uk Coach Holidays

SATELLITE TV n BAR n GYM GROUND FLOOR ROOMS

2 DAYS/1 NIGHT HALF BOARD Date

Price

19th December

£169 £15

Book online or call: 01793 821303

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FREE HOME PICKUP on tours 4 days and over

The English Riviera ~ Paignton

Britain’s first holiday resort occupies a fine position on the Yorkshire coastline with two magnificent bays and a headland topped by a castle.

Hotel Information

Turkey & Tinsel Includes: Entertainment every evening, tea coffee and snack on arrival, Christmas meal, festive drinks reception and visit from Santa with present.

Hotel Information

QUEENS HOTEL ~ TURKEY & TINSEL 3 star hotel situated near to the front and shops. n

LIFT

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BAR

POOL

n

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LIFT

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BAR

Date

Price

£299 NIL

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THE BURLINGTON HOTEL ~ TURKEY & TINSEL One of our favourite hotels located near the seafront.

BAR

POOL

SPA

GROUND FLOOR ROOMS Price

11 November

£269 NIL

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Ilfracombe

Superb Turkey & Tinsel holiday in Eastbourne, one of England’s premier resorts, with a magnificent seafront, wide tree-lined streets and fine shopping centre.

Hotel Information

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LIFT

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THE ILFRACOMBE CARLTON ~ TURKEY & TINSEL 2 star hotel in the heart of Ilfracombe.

BAR

5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS HALF BOARD

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BAR

Date

Price

10 November

£299 NIL

Weymouth is one of Britain’s most attractive resorts with its level promenade from which there are grand views of the coastline. It has a resort full of interest, especially around the busy harbour.

Hotel Information

THE CROWN HOTEL ~ TURKEY & TINSEL 2 star hotel situated near the harbour and in close proximity to the seafront and town centre

BAR

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Date

Price

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14 November

£239 18

LIFT

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BAR

5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS HALF BOARD Date

Price

17 November

£339 NIL

This tour was a great success last year, so join us this year with 20% of takings donated to the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. The hotel will be a minimum of 3 stars and have Turkey & Tinsel entertainment every night! There will also be a day trip out from the hotel every day!

5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS HALF BOARD

Date

Price

SS

01 December

£279 NIL

SS

Weymouth & Delightful Dorset

The Cystic Fibrosis Trust Secret Santa Mystery Turkey & Tinsel

Ilfracombe has a picturesque harbour along with narrow street and the North Devon coast is renowned for its unique character and spectacular scenery.

Hotel Information

n

£299 NIL

03 November

4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS HALF BOARD

Date

LIFT

SS

NEW WILMINGTON HOTEL ~ TURKEY & TINSEL A fine family run 3 star just off the seafront.

5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS HALF BOARD

n

Price

LIFT

5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS HALF BOARD

Eastbourne

Almost half of the island is designated an area of outstanding beauty with a variety of landscapes. Sandown is a beautifully positioned resort with the seafront just metres from the shops and cafes.

Hotel Information

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CLARENCE HOUSE HOTEL ~ TURKEY & TINSEL Superbly situated on the esplanade with panoramic views. n

Date

Sandown ~ Isle of Wight

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Tenby is an attractive resort with two bays, a harbour, great shops and cafes. The coastline in this area is so spectacular that almost all of it is designated a National Park.

Hotel Information

5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS HALF BOARD

03 November

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©flickr - Scarborough Harbour

THE ESPLANADE HOTEL ~ TURKEY & TINSEL 3 star hotel that holds a commanding position above the cliffs overlooking the sea.

5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS HALF BOARD

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Tenby

Scarborough

Date

Price

8th December

£299 NIL

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For full details visit www.barnescoaches.co.uk

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WHAT ASSETS ACTUALLY PASS UNDER YOUR WILL? – Particularly Digital Assets The many articles I have written in this magazine all point to just how much people can achieve through making a well thought out Will. It is important to realise however that not all property passes under a person's Will.

By Robin Gambles The most obvious and commonest example is jointly held property which passes automatically to the surviving joint owner irrespective of the terms of a person's Will. It is very often best for tax planning or asset protection to prevent that automatic accrual. This can be done by severing a joint tenancy of property so that the property is held in fixed (usually equal) shares. Then the fixed half share passes in accordance with whatever provisions you have put in your Will.

You have thereby retained control of the situation which you can then well use to your family's advantage.

Another exception is certain types of foreign property such as land where foreign law can dictate how that property passes.

In the modern electronic age, we are becoming aware however of another type of property, which seems to have a law entirely of its own and normally does not pass under your Will. THESE ARE YOUR DIGITAL ASSETS. This is a very wide term and includes any of your assets that are accessed or held online. This covers a broad range of information from digital music, photographs, financial information and information relating to all aspects of social life. They

10

also include all your emails, unless specifically saved onto a disc or drive that you own.

Many have assumed that this information would be included in your general estate and would pass under your Will. This unfortunately is not the case however and it is not just families of people who have died who find themselves in difficulty in accessing information but also attorneys of incapacitated individuals are finding themselves in the same kind of difficulties.

The situation is further complicated due to uncertainty as to who owns or controls these assets, the organisations hosting these assets usually being abroad and subject to foreign legal jurisdictions.

There is very little legislation or international treaties or protocols as yet dealing with such matters.

The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, which is an international body, is working hard to bring into being some kind of international code or legislation which will clarify these issues, but in the meantime people need to consider how they can guard against the problems that might arise.

Normally, your estate on death includes everything you own outright.

We tend to assume that we own our digital assets but this is by no means always the case for instance there is an important distinction at law between ownership and a mere licence to use something. If we download an album from iTunes we might think we own that download whereas in fact we only have a restricted licence to use the content of that album.

Whenever we open an online account of whatever kind, we normally tend to skip over the terms and conditions as they are so lengthy and unintelligible.

Many however will restrict access to the digital assets to the named individual who is opening the account and some go as far as expressly to exclude personal representatives or other third parties authorised by the accountholder.

As many of these organisations are based in America they are largely influenced by the US privacy laws, but here we also have data protection issues which make providers take a wary stance. Banks and social media organisations nearly always prohibit the sharing of online logins and passwords. People who use other people's passwords, with their permission as a matter of convenience, can run big risks if something goes

wrong with the transaction and then reinstatement is later denied.

Banks are now much better equipped to deal with third parties. Generally, all banks cater for people holding power of attorney and set up independent access for the attorney. Any power of attorney ceases automatically on death however and all online banking arrangements will cease at that point.

This doesn’t create much of a problem though as the online facility is only an add on. The bank account itself is an entity in its own right however and the executors can, on production of appropriate authority, obtain all the information from the bank that they require and in due course close the account.

I understand that some providers will now recognise a written instruction giving an executor or beneficiary access to digital data of someone who has died but, unless they have received and recognise this, I understand that most service providers' standard terms and conditions delete a deceased person's information on death.

Last year, Google took the helpful initiative of allowing accountholders to specify, through an update of their settings, to whom their Google run

account will pass after their death.

Alternatively the user can opt for information to be deleted and not passed on. Others may be following their lead.

so much communication taking place by email, there is a great risk that this will be lost for ever, unless they are separately stored in a form that can be easily handed over to somebody.

Solutions

This is an ever changing field that needs to be closely watched.

Well drawn Wills will have a clause specifically dealing with personal chattels and it is well worth considering amplifying the definitions within that clause to include digital assets wherever possible and to use that same clause to authorise personal representatives to access such data.

Until international protocols come into force and are ratified by the majority of countries, there are no easy answers in this field. As a practical precaution, it is a good idea to leave a letter of wishes as to what you want done with all of your digital assets and place that with your Will. That can then be produced or scanned to online service providers in the hope that their procedures by then will accommodate such wishes and allow effect to be given to them.

It is perhaps also wise only to use the Cloud and online storage media such as Dropbox as a convenient back-up and for general access and sharing.

It is a good idea to keep all your photos and important emails saved as specific documents onto the hard drive of your computer and backed up as appropriate. This is particularly important with regard to correspondence emails which might otherwise be lost forever on death. This is particularly important as so much history has been preserved through the preservation of letters, and with

We at Hewetts will be very happy to discuss any of these kinds of issues with you and any other questions you may have as to what you want your Will to cover. It is always in any event a good idea to update these every 5 years or so as we try to keep pace with our ever changing world.

Please contact Robin Gambles (r.gambles@hewetts.co.uk) or Tim Butcher (t.butcher@ hewetts.co.uk) or by telephone as shown below.

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

11

LEISURE getting a health check that reassures you both. He or she should also be able to tell you what you should and shouldn’t be doing; GPs are generally very supportive of exercise these days as they recognise its vital importance in keeping well.

Swimming is an easy exercise to achieve and most towns have a pool.

Some local authorities also have handy systems of reduced pricing or even free access for senior citizens so it’s worth checking this out.

Staying fit and healthy ...

by Angela Kelly IT’S never been easier to keep ourselves fit and healthy and, as we grow older, we want to retain a good quality of life that includes being as well as possible.

As with everything as birthdays pass, we need to be more aware of our bodies and how to keep them in good condition. In fact, we owe it to ourselves to try.

At one time, you were the exception if you had a fitness routine, ate a large proportion of raw foods or watched your diet carefully. Now, it’s the norm, and if you go into any gym during the day there’s a very good chance you’ll see a large number of older people actively working towards feeling fitter and healthier – and enjoying it!

The benefits of regular exercise can make retirement far more pleasurable.

As well as keeping joints working better and muscles and bones still strong, exercise can reduce the risk of developing heart disease and stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis 12

and back pain, high blood pressure and even some cancers.

Winter, of course, is a time when we particularly need to pay attention to our health. Without the sun’s healing rays we need to concentrate on other natural ways to put goodness into our bodies, eating and drinking well and getting enough of the right kind of exercise.

When the weather is reasonable and we can get out of doors, walking is still one of the best exercises around.

Set yourself a daily target, go with a friend and enjoy a chat along the way, perhaps finishing up with a coffee or some local café.

Or, you can get a dog and step into the quite remarkably friendly world of dog-walkers. You have to get out and about with a canine pal, which creates an enjoyable routine, and a dog is also a great way to have regular company at home which can keep you healthier all round.

Always consult your GP before you start a new exercise routine, perhaps

Tennis can be played indoors as well as outside and the Lawn Tennis Association can tell you about clubs near you if you go to www.lta.org. uk Badminton is also a sport that any age can play and Badminton England at www.badmintonengland. co.uk has information on where it’s played in your locality. And there are plenty of martial arts’ sessions around that encourage flexibility and overall fitness that are suitable for all ages.

Leisure centres are a great source of useful information on available activities and there are plenty of private sports clubs and gyms that can help. Some gyms have their own special sessions for older people, carefully tailored to their needs. The big bonus from these is that you also have the company of like-minded people around you.

Eating healthily doesn’t have to be either complicated or boring, points out Age UK. It’s actually about making sure you have plenty of variety so you get all the nutrition you need and maintain a healthy weight.

It’s also about not eating too much of things like saturated fat, sugar and salt and about getting enough fibre, protein, vitamins and minerals.

Research shows that people who eat plenty of fruit and vegetables are less likely to develop heart disease and certain cancers. Vegetables can be fresh, frozen, dried or canned.

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If you suspect you’re not getting enough of the right nutrients in your diet, it may be worth considering taking supplements. But it’s important not to take them in a high dosage or for too long, especially if you’re already taking prescription medication.

Ensure you’re taking specific vitamins in the right RDA – the recommended daily allowance, although your kidneys will flush away what your body doesn’t need. However, people over 65 do sometimes need supplements, especially of vitamins D, B and C, iron and calcium so talk to your GP about this.

If you invest in a juicer, you can begin your day with a refreshing juice of blended fruits and vegs – delicious!

Keeping mentally well and alert is as important as being in physically good shape. A pet can really help with company if you live alone, as can having an interest or hobby, involving yourself in your local church or just getting out and about meeting people.

For general advice about wellbeing go to www.ageuk.org.uk

Many people just don’t understand the “portions” in our advised five-a-day, but if you start the day with, for example, a glass of juice or a heaped tablespoon of dried fruit or a banana with your cereal that really helps. Have a snack of an apple or a handful of grapes or a pear, lunch with a side salad of tomato and lettuce or three heaped tablespoons of baked beans and dinner with three heaped tablespoons of vegetables like peas, carrots or sweetcorn.

It’s important to eat two portions of meat, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, lentils or nuts each day as they all contain protein which helps to build and repair your body. You don’t need to eat meat or fish every day – try cheese, well-cooked eggs, beans, lentils or tofu instead.

Try to eat fish twice a week. One portion of white fish like haddock or cod, and one portion of oily fish like salmon or sardines is really good for you. Oily fish are rich in vitamin D and a type of fat that helps prevent heart disease, but do avoid frying meat or fish.

Have a serving of starchy food – bread, breakfast cereal, potatoes, yams, rice or pasta – with every meal as they give you energy. Wholegrain foods like brown rice or wholegrain bread or pasta contain B vitamins, minerals and fibre that are good for you and help prevent constipation.

Calcium-rich milk and dairy foods help to keep bones and teeth strong. Try to have three servings a day and choose lower-fat versions like semi-skimmed milk or half-fat cheese when you can.

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Wokingham Health Walks Wokingham Health Walks is a local Walking for Health scheme. Our walks are free, fun and friendly – perfect to help you get active and meet new people.

If you’d like to take part, all you have to do is come along to the start point of one of our walks a few minutes early, so that one of our trained walk leaders can take your details. Then you’re free to take part in as many walks as you like, as often as you like.

If you want to know more about the walking programme, email Healthwalks@wokingham.gov.uk or call 0118 974 3729

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17/06/2014 14:27

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electric biking is a great way to get around..!!

Mark from e-motion, Swindon’s electric bike specialist wants to spread the word about electric biking. He says, “Plain and simple riding an ebike is just a great way to get around.

Knowing that you can mosey along at 15 mph for 30 miles or more is a liberating thing. If you come up against a strong headwind or a steep hill you just increase the assistance from the motor by one tap of the finger on the handlebar display and the motor takes up the strain. You’re still pedaling at the same time as the motor assists so still getting exercise but, cleverly you can choose how much effort you want to put in. An analogy a client said was that it’s like driving a car with power steering for the first time when you’re used to driving one without, (showing my age!).”

“Modern ebikes are better made, lighter and more stylish than they used to be, making them appealing to all age groups. Customers tell us how they’ve re-explored their home town, visited surrounding villages for nice lunches, the possibilities are endless ..... and in Swindon with over 60 miles of cycles paths and beautiful countryside on our doorstep we are truly spoilt for choice!“

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 9088020 or email: Steady.steps@wokingham.gov.uk

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SHINE

SomeHealth HealthImprovements ImprovementsNeed NeedExercise Exercise Some

50+ Physical Activity Programme

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

SHINE MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE! 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

DAWN FRENCH The Queen of British Comedy We’ve got so used to seeing comic actress Dawn French in roles where she’s anything but Dawn French that her latest solo tour is proving a bit of a revelation – both to audiences and to Dawn herself.

16

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INTERVIEW It’s called “30 Million Minutes”, which is the amount of time she reckons she’s been on this earth. But in what she describes as a “sliver of time between the madness of my menopause – now thankfully over – and the impending madness of my dementia” she’s boldly, and at times bawdily, going where she has never gone before.

Dawn is 56 now, arguably the long-term holder of the title Queen of British Comedy, and an award-winning actress, best-selling novelist and all-round funny lady.

She’s written this new show based on her life and career, all with a sharp eye for comic detail as you would expect and a wicked ear for the absurdities of life. Dawn French of Cornwall shares how she misguidedly spent her whole life vigorously attempting to be a fully functioning female human.

“It’s not a stand-up show. It’s not a play. I guess it is a monologue because it’s just me talking,” she states. “It’s a slide show to an extent. But not JUST a slide show. It’s not like your awful, most feared auntie who’s just come back from Egypt where you have to sit and watch everything. It’s quite autobiographical so I show you the people that have made me – so to speak.”

Growing up, she and her brother had been shielded from his depression. It was, she states, “just like a bomb went off in our family. My mum, of course, would have known there was danger. He’d lived his whole life with it but this was in a time when you didn’t say you had mental illness if you were the head of a family. I still have sadness about it. Massive sadness. And I think it’s been a centre point of my life, what happened with my dad.”

Soon after her father’s suicide, Dawn started at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London to do a teaching course. There she met Jennifer Saunders, with whom she would form a hugely successful comedy double act.

The pair began to make names for themselves on the alternative comedy scene in the 1980s and their longrunning TV show, “French and Saunders”, launched in 1987 introducing us to their madcap world.

Roles in TV - including the iconic lead part in The Vicar of Dibley - and in the theatre have followed. She also has an autobiography and two novels to her name, not to mention high-profile TV advertising appearances that have kept her in the public consciousness and firmly associate her with chocolate oranges and insurance.

Three years ago, Dawn revealed that she had lost seven and a half stone.

She has since said that she’s put some of it back on and admits that eating is very comforting. “It’s a lovely thing to do,” she states. “We love tasting things. You don’t get to be spherical without liking eating things.”

Reviews of the show, now touring until the end of November from Nottingham to Southend and Bournemouth to Manchester, reveal a national ongoing affection not just for the characters that Dawn has played which have passed into entertainment folklore but also for Dawn herself. All of which is just as well because the show is a riveting 120 minutes about her life and, being Dawn, it’s not only larger than life but also deeply affecting.

She was born in Holyhead, Wales, in 1957 when her father was stationed there with the RAF, but she spent much of her childhood in Cornwall and went to boarding school in Devon. At home, Dawn was a performer and her dad was, too. “He would tease me to discipline me,” she recalls. “Very loving teasing. Lots of things were dealt with at that quite sophisticated level of lots of fun.”

Her father gave her confidence, and she remembers a “key moment” when she was leaving for a party. “I’ve always been a big girl and shouldn’t really have been wearing hot pants,” she says.

Her father, though, was supportive. “He told me I was completely beautiful and how amazing I looked in them and that I would get loads of attention. So my dad gave me a sort of telling off that was about totally infusing me with confidence and I went on cloud nine to this party, and I’ve never actually left that party. It was armour.”

Bearing in mind that closeness, however, it’s not difficult to imagine how devastated she was at 18 when her father killed himself.

And, although these days she is far from spherical and is a beautiful woman, she will only admit that she is “less than I was.” Fortunately, there is a generally held theory that Dawn French is rightly not defined by her weight, simply by her talent.

She had a much-publicised divorce from comedian Lenny Henry after 25 years together, but they have an adopted daughter and she says they still have a “great” relationship.

After the split, she found – in her 50s – that she was going on dates. “I’m not good at flirting. I’m good at being coy.

What I’d rather do is give a questionnaire out and get people to tick boxes,” she says, laughing.

Now, though, she has finally found happiness with Mark Bignell, who runs a charity, and when she talks about him she shuts her eyes in delight. They have recently had their first wedding anniversary and she says: ”It’s so new. It’s completely thrilling. It’s almost too delightful. I could almost burst with it.”

And, for the thousands of fans who will see Dawn in person around the country, discovering more about who she really is, this is a wonderful – and very happy – postscript to her life so far.

* For ticket and venue information about Dawn French’s 30 Million Minutes UK tour go to dawnfrenchontour.com

A loving companion FOR many people a pet is a much-loved and constant friend to share daily life with and to provide a comforting presence.

Of course, individual pets can mean far more to us. They are often a life-line to socialising with others, someone to make observations to and another live presence in the home when children have flown the nest.

Even in a recession, we are still a nation of animal lovers with around 67 million pets in the UK. There are about 8 million dogs – about 23 per cent of all UK households owns at least one dog – and around the same number of cats.

We keep about 20 to 25 million fish in tanks and the same number outdoors in ponds, 1 million rabbits, 1 million

Greyhounds make great pets

retiredgreyhounds.co.uk

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caged birds, 1 million guinea pigs and half a million hamsters. And that’s not to mention the assorted snakes, lizards, gerbils, horses, ponies, rats and even pigeons people in this country keep as pets today.

Dogs, in particular, make wonderful companions for many older people.

As Rebecca Eighteen from national rehoming charity Dogs Trust explains “The general care of a dog means that owners have to stay active, come rain or shine.

“Dog-walking is also a great way to socialise with other people. Dogs are 100 per cent reliant on their owners, which can give their owner a sense of purpose and someone to look after.

They can also offer a great sense of security. Many people find that their retirement affords them the time needed to care for a dog and enjoy the constant companionship they offer.”

First, there needs to be a realistic assessment of their situation by anyone wanting to own a dog. If you’re not able to take a dog out for daily walks then it

may be worth considering a breed that doesn’t need that kind of exercise.

If you live in a tiny apartment then, plainly, taking on a huge dog is not sensible. The same applies if you haven’t got a lot of time for grooming a long-haired dog that may require regular attention when a short-haired breed might be far more suitable.

A frail person might find a large, boisterous dog hard to control. So breed, size, temperament and level of care all play a part in that choice.

Dogs are also not cheap pets to keep.

As well as the right food, a dog needs certain vaccinations as they could be at risk from distemper, parvo virus, viral hepatitis, leptospirosis, para influenza and kennel cough. Neutering also needs to be considered and it’s sensible to get your dog microchipped. This is a one-off fee that means he or she is then on a national database and can be returned if found wandering or lost, so this offers real peace of mind.

There has been much publicity recently about puppy farming and the dangers of not buying a dog from a registered breeder. Seeing the

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conditions where the dog currently lives and, preferably, one or both of its parents is a good idea. This also gives an idea of how big the dog is likely to grow and its temperament.

Dogs Trust

Rehoming centres, as run by charities like the Dogs Trust and the Border Collie Trust GB, are also good places to choose your pet.

Cats Protection

“At Dogs Trust we have many dogs in our rehoming centres that would prefer an adult-only home without the hustle and bustle of young children.

“If you are retired or nearing retirement and cutting back on your hours at work, a dog can be a wonderful way to stay active and connected within your local community.”

Dogs like five year-old Rambo are awaiting owners. “He’d be well suited to a quiet adult home where he is the only pet. He would enjoy leisure walks with his new owner and a small garden where he can relax in the sunshine.

He’ll make a very loyal companion and reward you tenfold with love in return for a warm, comforting home.”

www.dogstrust.co.uk

Border Collie Trust GB

www.bordercollietrustgb.org.uk www.cats.org.uk

as these groups tend not to receive any funding from central or local government or the National Lottery and have to raise funds for their vital ongoing work.

All their dogs will be micro-chipped and vaccinated.

In the same way, there are many abandoned cats of all ages that need a loving home. Cats also need vaccinations against a variety of feline diseases including cat flu. Vets’ fees can prove expensive so it’s worth shopping around, but it’s also well worth investing in pet insurance.

For a relatively small monthly premium, you can cover a variety of treatments – often, in the case of something traumatic like an accident, when you are upset about your pet and glad of having this kind of practical cover.

Many older people find that caged birds are very good companions and, again, it’s worth considering your lifestyle

before you invest in your bird and the equipment it needs.

For example, a vividly coloured Macaw may well catch your attention in a pet store and prove entrancing.

But prospective owners need to realise that long-living Macaws have special dietary requirements and should be handled and let out daily.

Finches, canaries and budgerigars may not need as much daily care and are wonderfully rewarding birds.

It’s certainly worth looking at the daily time commitment you can give to a pet, and your genuine willingness to make a pet part of your household.

Whatever you decide, looking at all the options first – and taking out the necessary insurance – will ensure that you and your pet exist happily together for many years to come.

Reading Branch Rambo is just one of the potential pets at a Dogs Trust rehoming centre waiting for a new owner.

Similarly, at the Border Collie Trust, Ben Wilkes explains: “For those who don’t feel a pup or young dog is for them, we often have middle-aged or older dogs who, through no fault of their own, are looking for a new home and will provide an opportunity to enjoy the intelligence of the collie.”

In common with most animal charities a rehoming fee is charged (in their case, between £80 and £150 depending on the dog’s age)

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Contact Lynette at PetStay for more details.

Tel: 01635 904001 Mob: 07780 451751

Web: www.petstay.net Email: lynette@petstay.net Facebook.com/PetStay.Reading 19

A flexible approach can help you juggle care for all the generations When you reach the 50+ age

The new Flexible Working

As long as you meet the criteria, your

bracket, the chances are you have

Regulations, part of the Children and

flexible working request can be for

adult children at university or

Families Bill 2014, mean all full-time

something as simple as attending a

already carving out their own career.

and part-time employees now have

Tuesday afternoon bridge class or a

Just as you plan for a little “me

the right to ask for flexible working.

Thursday morning ramble.

time” however, there may be new

Previously, it was just employees

care needs to consider, such as the

with parental responsibility for young

On a more serious note however, it

arrival of grandchildren or looking

children, or those who were eligible

is likely to be those who have to give

after your own elderly parents.

as carers.

care support to family members at

For those who go out to work –

Today’s rules mean that, as long

or indeed run a business – these

as you have 26 weeks’ continuous

latest demands can prove very

service with the employer and have

They might need or want to continue

challenging for employee and

not made a previous request within

working in order to boost dwindling

employer alike, especially since the

the last 12 months, you can apply for

savings and add to their pension pot,

advent of a new law which came

flexible working – and you don’t even

or are simply not ready to give up

into effect from 30 June.

have to say why.

each end of the age spectrum who

20

will want to take advantage.

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work but welcome the opportunity to

Jo says the practice has seen an

reduce their time in the office.

increase in the number of people

Case studies

asking for advice on how best to

Karen Walker*, 56, works as an

For business owners or managers

bring up the subject of flexible

accounts clerk and asked B P

the advent of the new rules mean

working with an employer. She

Collins for advice when she needed

their focus will be on ensuring

acknowledges that where smaller

to reduce her hours to look after

business continuity and success isn’t

businesses are concerned, the impact

her new granddaughter. She was

threatened by someone who can

can be more challenging, and says

worried that being part of a small

no longer put in the same hours,

taking a proactive view can help.

team, the business would suffer if

combined with the need to hold on to valuable experience and expertise.

she took time out. After making her

“Of course we have to recognise

request and explaining that for a

that an employer is there to run

small investment in IT, Karen could

Jo Davis, a partner and employment

a business and make a profit,”

work from home two days a week,

law specialist at leading

she said. “A big organisation that

she was able to reach an amicable

Buckinghamshire law firm B P Collins

employs several hundred people will

agreement with her employer. This

LLP, says getting the best balance is

most likely find it easier to be flexible,

allowed her to be a stay-at-home

essential for both sides.

but if you only have five staff and four

gran when she wanted and catch

of them want to work flexibly, then

up on the paperwork later in the

“If you can get the flexible working

of course it will be more difficult to

day after handing over to Mum at

balance right, then it can be good for

organise.

lunchtimes.

the time off he or she needs, while

“That’s why we always advise

Having built his pharmaceutical

the employer retains the skills of an

employees need to be reasonable

business from scratch, Bill

experienced employee,” she said.

and flexible in what they ask for.

Drummond* wanted to hold on to

If they can think about how the

his skilled laboratory technicians.

“As more elderly people receive care

business could work around their

When one of them applied for

in the community, this is very often

request and, if possible, come up

flexible working to look after a frail

provided by family members and,

with solutions such as flexitime,

parent, Bill considered the request

although carers have previously had

home working, job sharing or even

and the benefits of retaining the

the right to request flexible working,

shift or contract working, then it can

technician rather than losing him

many may have thought they didn’t

be far harder for an employer to say

altogether. Bill was advised to

fall into the necessary category to

no.

negotiate a job-share package

everyone because the individual gets

apply.”

which enabled the employee to

“We see it from both sides and if

reduce his hours and share care

Under the new regulations,

an employer does have to decline

with his siblings, while ensuring

employers will have a duty to

an application, then we can provide

the business still benefited from his

consider all requests in a reasonable

advice to help them understand the

expertise.

manner, although they will still be

options available.”

able to turn them down on business grounds.

For advice on the issue of flexible working, please contact Jo Davis at B P Collins on – 01753 278659 or email jo.davis@bpcollins.co.uk. *names have been changed

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21

A gift with the power to make a real difference

For most of us, our Will is one way of looking after the people we care about after we’ve gone, but it can also be a way to show your community you care.

The gift of time with loved ones is priceless.

Our patients tell us it’s this and the welcoming, compassionate and safe place to stay they find at Thames Hospice that are so important – a gift you can help give.

The generosity of those who have left Thames Hospice a donation in their Will has ensured we can keep the Hospice running, but we still need to do more:

l This year alone there has been a 30% rise in referrals to Thames Hospice

l In a national survey of bereaved people, out of those whose loved ones died in hospital, only 3% expressed that this would have been their preferred place of death. We want to be able to offer more people a choice in where they die.

No one can predict who may need our care or when.

Making Thames Hospice part of your Will-making process will help us ensure we have the resources to support everyone who needs us, now and in the future.

Call us: 01753 848 949

Email: Helen.saich@thameshospice.org.uk

Visit: thameshospice.org.uk

Registered Charity No: 1108298 Thames Hospice is the local charity for people living in East Berkshire and South Buckinghamshire. We provide expert medical, nursing and therapeutic care to adults who have a life-limiting illness - and their families and carers. It costs over £5.5 million every year to keep our vital services going. We rely on 80% of our costs from charitable donations, which enables us to provide our services free of charge, 365 days a year, to the people that need us.

OUT & ABOUT

Places to visit and things to do 22nd & 23rd October 2014 THE SHOWMAN’S SHOW 2014 The Showman’s Show The Outdoor Event Services Exhibition is the UK’s original and most comprehensive exhibition of products, services and entertainment for the outdoor and special event world. At the excellent setting of Newbury Showground.

Newbury Showground Hermitage Berkshire.

24th & 26th October 2014 Halloween spooky night paddle Come along and experience spooky stories on the creepy black waters of Black Swan Lake – Watch out for the ghosts!

Please make sure you arrive 15 minutes before the course start time on the first day to ensure you are signed in and that your medical consent form is completed. Please report to reception on arriva Dinton Activity Centre, Woodley, Berkshire 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm 25th & 26th October 2014 Mapledurham Christmas Craft & Gift Fair Held in heated marquees on the banks of the Thames and on the lawns at

Mapledurham.The Christmas Craft Fair will feature: Wonderful gifts for family and home, Original and wonderful crafts, Fine Foods direct from the producers, Mapledurham Gift Shop,Festive atmosphere and entertainment, Morning coffee, lunches and afternoon teas, Father Christmas, Plenty of free parking £4.00 adults, accompanied children (-16) FREE Mapledurham Estate, Reading Berkshire 10:00 am - 5:00 pm.

1st November 2014 Fireworks and Laser Light Show This year we are including a special presentation of a Laser Light Show which will commemorate the 1st World War. Gates will be open at 6p.m. and the programme will start at 7p.m. sharp starting with the Laser Show which will be followed by our spectacular high impact Firework Display which will be fully choreographed to music. Hot food and novelties will be available on site and the Lions Club cannot allow any personal fireworks, including sparklers, or alcohol to be brought on to the field.

Entry is £7.00 for adults and £5.00 for children under 14. Toddlers carried or in pushchairs are free Laurel Park, Lower Earley, Berkshire 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 16th November 2014 CRAFT FAIR

Waingels College Association Craft fair.

Still spaces available for stallholders.

Nice day out for all the family, local crafts and gifts, fill the Christmas stockings.

Waingels College, Woodley, Berkshire 10:00 am - 4:00pm 22nd November 2014 Maidenhead Christmas Festival Throughout the day there will be craft and food stalls in the High Street and Queen Street and Fun Fair rides in St Ives Road.

The switch on event will start at 5pm with live music and entertainment at the Town Hall followed by the Count down and lights switch on at 6pm.

Maidenhead Town Centre, Maidenhead, Berkshire 10:00 am - 7:00 pm 28th & 29th November 2014 Berkshire Events Tribute to The Jersey Boys Our tribute to Frankie Valli bringing a musical tribute to the Smash West End musical Jersey Boys.The Other Guys’ are one of the UK’s leading tributes to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.

The event includes resident DJ playing for this event only the best of the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and 80’s.

Ticket price includes entry, unallocated seating unless table of 10 reserved and food optional (See ticket options).

Win two Club Wembley Gold tickets for England V Slovenia on Saturday 15 November 2014. Your prize includes fantastic seats and access to the exclusive Club Wembley concourse. For your chance to win simply fill in your details.

Name:....................................................................................................

Email address:.......................................................................................

Preferred Contact Number:..................................................................

Post to: McGrath Media Unit 6 Moses Gate Workshops Gladys Street Bolton BL3 2QG. or visit www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

The prize is for two Club Wembley Gold tickets for England V Slovenia on Saturday 15 November 2014 The prize does not include catering. The prize does not include travel costs. Entry is free. The free prize draw will be drawn by an independent judge. This decision is final. Entries must be received by 31st October 2014. Prize may change and is subject to availability. The winner will be contacted by email. No cash alternatives are available. Prize cannot be transferred. Prize is subject to availability. The prize cannot be re-sold as this is a criminal offence. The prize cannot be used for marketing, promotional or any other commercial purpose. Minimum age of participant is 18 years old. Employees and the immediate families of The FA Group, its agents or anyone professionally connected with the promotion are not permitted to enter. Promoter’s Name and Address: Wembley National Stadium Limited, Wembley, London HA9 0WS. The Promoter shall not be liable for any entries which are not received by the closing date. Data collected is subject to the Data Protection Act and Wembley Stadium’s privacy policy, and will not be passed on to third party companies. You warrant and represent that you have the consent to disclose the personal data recorded on your entry. By providing this information to us you represent and warrant that you consent to receive marketing communications from Wembley National Stadium Limited (WNSL) and other companies in WNSL’s group of companies.

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OUT & ABOUT Tickets available now. £12pp WITHOUT FOOD, £15pp INCLUDES FOOD. Bracknell Leisure Centre, Bracknell, Berkshire 7:30 pm - 12:00am

6th December 2014

Victorian Christmas Special Shopping Evening 2014

Devine Buskers Collection Devine Buskers will be in Maidenhead town centre. Come and hear these talented singers and musicians and get your toes tapping. In aid of Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service.

Nicholson Centre, Maidenhead Town Centre, Berkshire SL6 1LB 10.30am to 12.30pm.

The Oracle and Broad Street Reading

6, 7,13,14, 20 to 24 December 2014

1st December @ 18:00

5th December 2014 Thatcham Christmas Lights Celebrations An evening of entertainment which finishes with the town’s Christmas lights being turned on. Visit Santa’s grotto, see the donkeys, enjoy the numerous charity stalls. Hot food and drinks available. Competitions including a treasure hunt around the local shops and businesses. Late night opening at many of the town centre shops. All takes place in The Broadway, Thatcham. FREE car parking in the Kingsland Centre (Waitrose) car park.

Entertainment from 5.30pm. Lights are switched on at 7pm.

Due to the event the eastern side of The Broadway will be closed to all traffic from 1pm until midnight on Friday 5th December. All the shops will be open as normal. Organised

by Thatcham Town Council.

Thatcham Town Center, Thatcham, Berkshire 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Breakfast with Santa 2014 Bring your family to the best Christmas event in town.

Windsor Royal Shopping’s Breakfast with Santa 2014.

Due to the popularity of this event, booking is made on a first come, first served basis and all bookings must be made online at www.windsorroyalshopping.co.uk. On-line booking opens at 10am on 3rd November. There is no charge to see Santa, but breakfast and refreshments must be paid for on the day. There is a £1.50 non-refundable administration fee per person, per event, to be paid upon booking. Please visit www.windsorroyalshopping.co.uk for more details.

Windsor Royal Shopping Centre, opposite Windsor Castle, Berkshire SL4 1RH 7th December 2014 Christmas Extravaganza Woodley Christmas Extravaganza, Santa, Entertainment, choir, market stalls and much more.

Woodley Shopping, Woodley, Berkshire 10:00 am - 3:00 pm 7th December 2014 WINDSOR EMPORIUM Seasonal Arts, Crafts & Antiques Fair. An emporium of the unexpected! Unique, contemporary art, quality handmade gifts & eclectic home interiors, held at the Harte & Garter Hotel opposite Windsor Castle. This luxurious venue showcases approx 40 unique exhibitors, providing a spectacular and varied line up. The Emporium also offers “pop up workshops” on our event days. Come and experience making, learning and sharing crafts with some of the very best local artisans - for adults and children (book via website). Also enjoy “afternoon tea” all day at the event, including delicious cakes and scrumptious sandwiches … ooh and champagne too!

The Harte & Garter Hotel Berkshire SL4 1PQ 14th December 2014 SANTA FUN RUN for Charity Thatcham and District Rotary is running this Charity Event again, after last years successful run raised several thousand pounds for local charities. Starts in Thatcham Broadway to Discovery Center and back, just 5 km long flat and multi terrain but mostly paved surface. Please book in advance as Santa Suits numbers are limited!

Arrive 10am for 11am start. Adult Entry Fee £15 – Student Entry Fee (and Under 18) £10.00 All entrants will receive a FREE Santa Claus costume to wear and keep, The Broadway,Thatcham Town Centre, Berkshire RG19 3HP

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OUT & ABOUT

My Bronte Book Your autobiography captured in a beautiful, illustrated volume for your family to treasure.

Complete with a web site of your pictures and recordings of your stories. Written in Haworth, home of the Brontes.

Haworth gave birth to the historic novels of the Bronte sisters and it can become the birthplace of your personal story.

Makes a wonderful gift for loved ones.

Bronte Book will publish your personal autobiography, written and published in Haworth, to pass on as a living legacy after making detailed recordings.

Within the four month long process comes your own web site (also available separately) containing recordings, pictures and special stories. Your own living legacy which we know you will enjoy compiling.

You may choose a book and/or a web site and an e-book within the package which starts from £300 ranging to £2,750 for the full process, which can include up to 20 books. A deposit with instalment payments plan is available.

Details from www.brontebook.com or Bronte Media, brontemedia@outlook.com Tel: 01535 959002, Mobile: 07866 626090

Contact: 020 8463 2000 12th December 2014

Martha Reeves and the Vandellas Brooklyn Bowl London The O2 Peninsula Square Greenwich London, United Kingdom SE10 0DX www.theo2.co.uk 2014 has been a banner year for Motown legend Martha Reeves and her singing cohorts, the Vandellas. The group is busier than ever with their 75-city Calling Out Around the World tour, celebrating the 50th anniversary of their mega-hit Dancing in the Street.

15 & 16 December 2014

Michael Bublé 02 Arena The O2 Peninsula Square Greenwich London, United Kingdom SE10 0DX www.theo2.co.uk After ten sold out shows at The O2 last year, Michael Bublé is coming back to the venue to play two nights in December (15 and 16) as part of his new UK arena tour.

His ten nights here last summer were lauded by critics around the world and sold more than 150,000 tickets.

One of the globe’s biggest stars, Bublé, has released six studio albums, won four Grammys, and his 2011 album To Be Loved still commands a Top 20 chart placing.

These two nights are set to be epic.

19 December 2014

Jocelyn Brown & Kenny Thomas Live In Concert indigo at The O2 Millennium Way Peninsula Square London, United Kingdom SE10 0AX www.theo2.co.uk Ultimate Soul Xmas party with Jocelyn Brown & Kenny Thomas

19th December 2014

Status Quo 02 Arena The O2 Peninsula Square Greenwich London, United Kingdom SE10 0DX www.theo2.co.uk

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The legendary Status Quo are coming back to play at The O2 on Friday 19 December, and this year they will be bringing Chas & Dave as their support act.

Alongside Chas & Dave the event promises to be a good old fashioned festive knees up.

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HOME

Re-covering an old suite can look amazing – as can adding accent soft furnishings and tasteful pictures

Every now and then we feel like completely changing the rooms in our home – but we don’t want to spend a fortune.

Only the truly rich can afford to dramatically alter their properties and interiors on a whim; the rest of us have to plan and even then have to do it piecemeal, as and when we can afford it.

But there are always methods to improve your home and give it a new look without the need for a Lottery win.

If you need more space at home and want to invest in an added room, a conservatory can fill the bill. It’s one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways of creating extra rooms, and one with the least disruption to daily life.

They come in all types and sizes but fall into three main groups: Traditional, Victorian or Edwardian.

Think carefully about the type that most suits your house and what you want it 28

for. If you’re looking to maximise space, one that goes right across the back of your home might prove more useful than a smaller version.

Remember that you might need planning permission or building control approval, depending on your property type and the sort of conservatory you want to build. Check this on the Government website www. planningportal.gov.uk Consider improving space by removing walls to create an open plan dining/ kitchen or a large family room.

Even the removal of a load-bearing wall is a relatively straightforward job to a competent builder. Ask for recommendations for good professionals in your area - they can often find clever ways to make the most of your home.

Allyson Houghton is an interior designer, with her own company, Ideas Interior, and she offers several useful tips on changing your home for the better on a sensible budget.

“If you’re changing things, it’s worth trying to look at your home with a fresh

eye,” she explains. “Start at the front of your house with the approach to the front door. Do you need a new front door or does the current one just need re-painting, perhaps adding new door furniture? Hanging baskets or pots can result in fragrance and colour here, too.”

Creating more light in your property can make rooms look fresh and attractive. “Begin with the HALLWAY as it’s the gateway to your home,” states Allyson. “Unless you’ve got a massive hallway with plenty of space, don’t go for wallpaper with big designs.

“The idea is to push the walls back so go for plain, light colours and use mirrors to add to the illusion of space and reflect available light.”

Paint all ceilings white, she advises.

“Don’t be tempted to have colour on any of the ceilings as you lose precious light and start to bring the ceilings down.”

Adopt the same principle for flooring.

“If you’ve having carpet, avoid bold patterns or big stripes – go for plain in smaller areas as you keep the feeling

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of space.” And only go for wooden floors in areas practical for them: “Remember that outdoor shoes and stiletto heels can leave marks, so pick your area carefully.”

If you want to put a feature wall in, for example, the LOUNGE, “think twice before using the fireplace wall as your feature wall – this could bring the room in. And go for the best wallpaper you can afford for this wall as it’s meant to last.

You can often buy ends of lines from stores which are good value.”

To create a contrast wall, go for a deeper shade of the same colour as the other walls. “When shade and colour testing, don’t make the mistake of lining up your test colours side by side on the same wall. How can you get a true idea of the colour? Test each one separately, one at once,” states Allyson.

“Use lining paper to achieve a true shade match if you are painting over magnolia walls.”

Invest wisely in appropriate lighting for individual area, “Changing the lighting in a room can make a really big difference,” states Allyson.

“For your lounge, select relaxing lighting perhaps with additional lamps. Don’t have a huge chandelier, for instance if the room isn’t very big and ensure the bulbs are pointing upwards. If you’ve got a really high hallway, though, a beautiful chandelier can look wonderful.”

Another way is to change the worktops which can make the kitchen look much more contemporary. And, while new appliances will help upgrade the kitchen, just buying the latest type of freestanding fridge, for example, will give it a more modern look.

“Don’t necessarily go for an island unit just because everyone else does if you haven’t really got the space,” states Allyson.

Changing the tiles – not necessarily going for expensive ones – can also refresh a kitchen’s style, as can changing the colour of your kettle, toaster etc for instant impact.

BATHROOMS always benefit by looking pristine so ensure all surfaces are clutter-free and sparkling clean. If you can’t afford to change the suite, change the taps which can make a great difference and modernise the look of the suite.

Alter the flooring to plain, light-reflecting tiles to maximise space here. Take a look at the latest shower panels and put in the odd splash of colour with bathroom accessories. Lighting is also really important here so consider installing inset ceiling lights which free up more space.

And if you’ve still got an old water tank or boiler in the bathroom, buy a combi boiler - better value all round and it can be installed in the loft out of the way. * For more information email allyson.ideasinterior@btinternet.com

Strategic use of big mirrors throughout the house can make a real difference to a dark or narrow area.

In the lounge, go for neutral shades on the walls but pick out accent colours in cushions and other soft furnishings.

Investing in rich materials for your curtains can also give a room a new, opulent look.

If your sofa or three-piece suite is looking a bit dowdy, rather than buying a new one, why not have the old one recovered? “This can look amazing,” states Allyson.

Just clearing surfaces and putting things away can make a great difference to a room. Rather than have laptops and computers kept out in a lounge, put them away in a desk or drawer and relax away from technology for a while.

If you’re having a large, wall-mounted TV in your lounge, consider installing a studded wall to hide all the wires.

“It’s tidier and gives you more wall space and clean lines,” advises Allyson. “Putting glass into doors between rooms can also really open up a room and affords more light.”

For 50 P Quote lus Readers for orde 50PLUSRW rs placed B now & fi in Oct, N ov, Dec tted

Re-paint old doors otherwise – “and it’s surprising the difference that just changing the door handles can make,” she says.

Replace old wooden panels in staircases with glass. “If you don’t want to use a specialist company, a glass merchant can help and can cut the panels to size,” adds Allyson.

Rather than buying new units for your KITCHEN, how about changing the doors? Or you could buy cheap bases and get a local carpenter to copy the latest styles at a fraction of the price.

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FOOD & DRINK

CHICKPEA CURRY Chana masala

Rick Stein shares recipes from his latest book My Indian Odyssey

SERVES 4 – 6 250g dried chickpeas, soaked in cold water overnight, or 625g (drained weight) of tinned or jarred chickpeas 1 tbsp vegetable oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 25g/5 cloves garlic, finely crushed 25g/5cm ginger, finely grated 2 fresh green chillis, finely chopped, with seeds 2 tsp ground coriander 2 tsp ground cumin 2 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder 300g vine -ripened tomatoes, chopped 2 tsp salt 1 tsp Garam masala 1 tbsp lemon juice Handful of coriander leaves, chopped.

I would hazard a guess that chana masala or chickpea curry is the most popular vegetarian curry in India. I sternly instructed my son Jack, who tested this recipe for me, only to use proper dried chickpeas soaked and boiled. He stole down to the deli, grabbed a jar of Spanish garbanzos and used the liquid with the chickpeas in place of some of the cooking water. It was a triumph. Maybe I’m too strict on tins and jars.

Method If using dried, soaked chickpeas then first drain them. Bring a large pan of water (without salt) to the boil, add the chickpeas and simmer over a medium heat for 45 minutes to an hour, or until soft but still holding their shape. Drain, reserving some of the cooking liquid to add to the sauce if needed. If using chickpeas from a can or jar, omit this stage.

Heat the oil in a sturdy pan or karahi over a medium heat. Add the onions, and fry for 10-15 minutes until softened and golden brown. Stir in the garlic, ginger and green chillis and fry for 1 minute, then add the ground coriander, cumin, chilli powder and turmeric and fry for 30 seconds. Add the tomatoes, chickpeas, salt and 300ml water or chickpea cooking water and bring to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes, stir in the garam masala and lemon juice, scatter with the coriander and serve.

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YESTERDAY’S FISH CURRY

SERVES 4 – 6 60ml vegetable oil 1 medium onion, thinly sliced 15g/3cm piece ginger, finely grated 50g/10 cloves garlic, half crushed to a paste, half thinly sliced 8 fresh curry leaves 1 tbsp Kashmiri chilli powder 1/2 tsp ground tumeric 1 tbsp ground coriander 1/2 tsp toasted ground fenugreek 1 tbsp rice flour or plain flour 2 tomatoes sliced 2 tbsp sliced smoked kokum, washed and soaked in 100ml boiling water for 15 minutes 500ml water 11/2 tsp salt 1 tsp sugar 500g salmon fillet, cut into 3cm chunks 1 tsp coconut oil, warmed to its liquid state, to finish.

Method

This recipe comes from a book called The Suriani Kitchen. The author, Lathika George, who took me on a fascinating trip round a frenetic market just outside Cochin, is an authority on Keralan cooking. She explained that it’s called ‘yesterday’s curry’ because everybody thinks it’s much better the next day. I came across the same curry all over the place - in a kitchen so smoky I couldn’t stay in there for more than a minute at a time, where it featured a giant kingfish head; at the house where I was filmed cooking lots of the recipes in the book, where the cook Mallika had one on every day; and in the hotel where we all stayed for about two weeks. The hotel was the sort of place of air-conditioned comfort where you go quietly mad for want of the warp and weft of everyday Indian life; we had to leave at six o’clock every morning to work a twelve-hour day in enervating humidity. As a matter of interest, I first tasted this dish years ago in a restaurant in central London called Rasa Samudra, and then as now, was taken by its spicy redness and the smoky flavour and souring effect of kokum. As if it wasn’t hard enough to get hold of kokum anyway, now you need to make sure it’s the smoky sort - but don’t worry, tamarind is nearly as good.

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Heat the oil in a heavy-based pan or karahi over a medium heat, add the onion and fry for 5 minutes until softened. Add the ginger, crushed and sliced garlic and curry leaves and fry for 2 minutes. Stir in the chilli powder, ground spices and flour and a splash of water, and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes, kokum (plus soaking water) or tamarind, water, salt and sugar and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the salmon and cook for a further 5 minutes. Remove from the heat, drizzle with coconut oil and serve.

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Get some satisfaction It’s clear that no one in The Rolling Stones ever did any crafting, because if they had, they would know the feeling of joy and personal satisfaction that comes with designing and making your own cards. Nothing fills you with pride like completing a project and then seeing the delighted face of the special recipient when you hand it over.

Socialising If you think crafting is a solitary pastime, think again. Stampin’ Up! demonstrators are known for their fun and exciting parties, classes and general get-togethers. Whether it’s mums in a café or an evening at home with friends, card making could be your window into a diverse and busy social life.

Get the family involved If anyone loves a bit of colourful crafting, it’s kids. You’ll be happy to have them stamping and punching things in the name of creativity and whilst enjoying some quality family time.

Reasons to get crafting rights. While your hands are busy piecing together place settings and wedding invitations, you’re free to slow down and relax.

Add that special touch to gifts and cards

With more than 23,000 crafting businesses in the UK and many more enthusiastic individuals, there has never been a better time to try your hand at some creative paper craft.

So why is it so popular? Paula Gorry, UK Business Development Manager, Stampin’ Up! UK offers 10 top reasons to get a cup of tea, get comfortable and get crafting.

In times of stress, craft and make a mess Crafting is a great way to de-stress, think and generally put the world to

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Bored with choosing from the same few generic supermarket birthday/ wedding/thank you cards? Let loose the artist within and make friends and family feel extra special in the process.

Nothing says ‘thinking of you’ more than a handcrafted masterpiece.

Gain a few pounds…the good kind!

If you love being creative and helping others do the same crafting can offer the opportunity to grow a flexible home-based business at your own pace alongside parenting, studying, the arduous 9-5, or as a full time career. With the help of our Stampin’ Up! family you could be demonstrating your cool and crafty creations to friends and neighbours as a great way of earning some extra cash.

It’s trendy!

Crafting is a growing market and just as knitting has exploded in popularity over the last few years, paper-based crafting is heading the same way. So if you pride yourself on staying ahead of the curve, now is the time to get creative and get crafting.

Free your creative energies Most people don’t get to express their creative side in their jobs or their dayto-day chores. Crafting is a great way to release that artistic flair that you’ve been bottling up and channel it into something fun and productive.

Back to Basics With the technological boom encroaching on every aspect of modern life, many of us have forgotten the joy of making something with our hands. Crafting is a great opportunity to switch off your phone, ignore your email and connect with something real.

Develop new skills Most people will underestimate the marvels that can be achieved with some raw materials and a bit of innovative thinking. Card making can help you become a master artisan, capable of creating technical and impressive delights.

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JOIN TODAY AND SAY YES TO

SAVINGS! You may be eligible for Costco Membership* Costco is a membership warehouse club that sells a wide selection of top quality brand name merchandise at low warehouse prices.

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You qualify for Trade Membership if you are a bona fide business owner or manager, or are self employed. To join Costco and start saving please provide evidence of trading in the form of either a VAT Registration Certificate or two other pieces of business stationery (cheque, letterhead, invoice), PLUS a current business utility bill (electricity, gas, telephone, water). The annual membership fee for Standard Trade Membership is £20 (plus VAT), which includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner.

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You qualify for Individual Membership if you belong to specific employment groups – please see below for details of qualifying categories. To join Costco and start saving please provide your employee ID card or current pay slip to prove your employment, PLUS a current utility bill (electricity, gas, telephone, water) or a bank statement addressed to your home. The annual membership fee for Standard Individual Membership is £25 (plus VAT), which includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner.

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Food Court | Fresh Bakery | Groceries | Gifts | Electronics | Fine Jewellery | Designer Apparel | Opticians | Fine Wines | Butchers and more!

Your guide to buying a stairlift

also require a larger deposit. This is because the track is made especially for your stairs, and the company will then be committed to build a track that will only fit your stairs.

Ableworld are a large independent mobility company who specialise in the supply, installation and maintenance of Stairlifts. We are a local company with a Retail and Buying background, so you can rely on us to supply quality branded products at value for money prices.

Types of Stairlift

Funding

You will be told during your site visit whether you will need a straight or curved stairlift.

If either you or someone living in your property is disabled you may qualify for a disabled facilities grant towards the cost of providing adaptations and facilities to enable the disabled person to continue to live there, for example, a stairlift or through the floor lift. Such grants are awarded by local councils under Part I of the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996.

Straight Stairlifts On a straight stairlift the footrest will usually stop level with both the top and the bottom of the stairs. It may sometimes be possible to fit a straight stairlift to some curved stairlift configurations.

Why choose a stairlift?

It is estimated that during our lifetimes we will use our stairs approximately 250,000 times. However for some people this may prove increasingly difficult.

“I’M “I’M NOT!” NOT!”

“STRUGGLING“STRUGGLING A straight stairlift can be fitted with either a seat or a stand on platform. A TO GET straight stairlift is usually the cheaper TO GET A stairlift can offer an alternative option, and they can be fitted within solution to moving or modifying a few days of the purchase. It can be UPSTAIRS?” a house. A stairlift can offer many UPSTAIRS?” fitted to either side of the stairs. benefits, mainly giving you the freedom and independence to move up and down in your house without the fear of falling and injuring yourself.

When you buy a stairlift you are also buying a greater sense of security.

Please be aware that these grants can take several months to be awarded.

Your local council or your OT will be able to give you more advice on any funding available.

Ableworld stock both new and reconditioned stair lifts. They will first do a FREE survey and assess which is the best lift to suit your individual needs, and then quote you a price. You are under no pressure or obligation to buy. If you decide to go ahead with the lift then our engineers will fit the lift at a convenient time and with little disturbance.

Curved Stairlifts

“STRUGGLING However you will needTO to remember GET that a stairlift is not the best option UPSTAIRS?” for everybody, for example if you are confined to a wheelchair then a ‘through the floor’ lift would probably be a better solution.

A curved stairlift is more expensive and this is because it is ‘made to measure’.

This lift can travel around corners and even run onto the landing. Prices will vary depending on the length of the stairs and the complexity of the bends.

A curved lift can be fitted to either side of the stairs.

“I’M NOT!”

On the whole a curved stairlift will take longer to order and be fitted and will

“I’M “I’M “I’M “I’M NOT!” NOT!” NOT!” NOT!”

“STRUGGLING “STRUGGLING “STRUGGLING “STRUGGLING TOGET GET TO TO GET TO GET UPSTAIRS?” UPSTAIRS?” UPSTAIRS?” UPSTAIRS?”

Stairlifts

Call now for a free no obligation survey 0800 092 0326.

Stairlifts

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www.ableworld.co.uk Subject to survey survey and Garage age £15 per week MINIVATOR AGE UK Subject to and age MINIVATOR UK SHELL GARAGE Often Fitted Next Day && AGE Next toOpen the Shell Installed - Garage Saturday BACK STAIRLIFTS - UP PAID ACORN, BROOKS,9.00am - 5.30pm Next to the T: 0118-986 21TO 21£500 Next toMonday the ShellBROOKS, WE WE BUYBUY BACK STAIRLIFTS UP TO £500 PAID ACORN, Shell Garage Subject toPAID survey and MINIVATOR & AGE UK WE BUY BACK STAIRLIFTS -UK UP TO £500 BROOKS, NEXT TO THE Subject to survey andACORN, age age MINIVATOR & AGE NEXT TO THE Freephone: 0800 092 03 SHELL GARAGE NEXT TO STAIRLIFTS THE to survey and 26 age MINIVATOR & AGE UK Subject *VAT EXEMPT PRICEWE - ASKBUY IN STORE FOR SHELL GARAGE NEXT TODETAILS THE BACK - UP TO £500 PAID ACORN, BROOK 221 Shinfi Shinfield eld Road, Road, Reading, Reading, Berkshire, Berkshire, RG2 RG2 8HA. 8HA. SHELL GARAGE SHELL GARAGE 221 Open Monday - Saturday 9.00am - 5.30pm Open Monday Saturday 9.00am 5.30pm Next to theSubject Next to the MINIVATOR & AGE UK to survey and age www.ableworld.co.uk www.ableworld.co.uk Shell Garage Shell Garage 221 Shinfi eld Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG2 8HA. T: 0118 986 21 21 Next to the Shell Garage 221 Shinfi Road, Berkshire, RG2 8HA. T:eld 0118 986Reading, 21 21 Next to the Garage *VATShell EXEMPT PRICE - ASK IN STORE FOR DETAILS *VAT EXEMPT PRICE - ASK IN8HA. STORE FORNEXT DETAILS NEXT TO THE www.ableworld.co.uk 221 Road, Reading, RG2 Freephone: 0800 Berkshire, 092 03 26 26 TO THE www.ableworld.co.uk 34 Shinfield Freephone: 0800 092 03 www.50plusmagazine.co.uk SHELL NEXT TO GARAGE THE SHELL NEXT TO GARAGE THE

Dentures – The Mirror Test What is a good set of dentures? A set of quality dentures should not fall out or drop when talking and you should be able to go out to lunch and not have to worry if your teeth will break or be unable to eat a variety of food. Basically you should have confidence in your teeth.

eautiful mile Your dentures also should not look like false teeth. Go to the mirror now and smile. What do you see? If you have partial dentures the false teeth should match the colour and shape of your natural teeth. Look at your own teeth I bet they are not all the same colour so why have dentures that are? At The Berkshire Dental Laboratory we make partial dentures using different colour teeth that blend in with your own so it is not obvious you have dentures.

Berkshire Dental Laboratory

With a full set of dentures it is more difficult to gh quality new dentures get the size and position of the teeth as there are no teeth to match up to, the width of the nose can rongest & most natural materials give us a good idea of the width of the six anterior teeth the shape of the face can also help us with the tooth elines,and copy dentures, chrome dentures mould choice we use. epairsA good while-u-wait, free consultation set of dentures will still look good with your mouth closed; by this I mean they will support your face l work in itsguaranteed natural position.

Your Dentures need Attention

0118 958 2226

1. When they become loose.

2. When teeth or denture base discolours.

3. When tooth surfaces become flat.

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

5. When you develop deep lines around your mouth. rkshire Dental Laboratory, 51a Lorne 6. When your chin sticks out, and the corners of your lips are constantly wet, developing sores.

3 We Close to Reading West Station, have been making dentures for over 30 years.

Come and see from us for town a chat:centre walking distance 3 The OnBerkshire a mainDental bus Laboratory route 385a Reading Road 3 Winnersh Off road parking RG41 5LT 0118 979 7555 3 Telephone: VAT FREE

Web.www.berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk We are Dental Technicians E-mails registered with the enquiries@berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk

enquiries@berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk The Berkshire Dental Laboratory are pleased to announce Street, Reading RG1 7YWwe have now moved to new premises in Winnersh.

w.berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk We can help with: How to take care of your dentures 1. Clean your dentures daily with a denture brush and denture cream. Washing up liquid is also good and white vinegar/water mix 50/50 soak for half an hour can soften tartar build up making it easier to brush off.

2. Have your dentures inspected every two years, if there not fitting as they did, a re line may be required 3. Have a new set made every 5 years if possible.

4. Keep a spare set for emergencies.

5. Remember, dentures do not have to hurt and do not need to be uncomfortable.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Mouthguards New dentures Denture repairs Same-day dentures 12-month guarantee

We make all our dentures by hand, on site.

Visit us in our new premises at 385a Reading Road, Winnersh RG41 5LT (opposite Sainsbury’s)

The Berkshire Dental Laboratory Telephone: 0118 979 7555 enquiries@berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk www.berkshiredentallaboratory.co.uk Registered with the General Dental Council.

35

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after the menopause can be due to spine fractures associated with

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36

08/07/2014 15:40:34

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

“Knowing mum is safe and well cared for is all we can ever wish for” Jane, daughter of Bupa care home resident

When you’re concerned about the care of a loved one, it can be difficult to know where to turn.

It’s not always easy to talk about elderly care and you may go through a whole range of emotions, or feel that you’re on your own.

Every day, we provide clear and honest answers to people just like Jane. Whether you’re just starting to think about care, need help understanding how to pay for

care or advice on choosing the best type of care – whether that’s one of our care homes or not – we’re here to help find the right solution for you.

For free advice on all of your care options in Reading and West Berkshire Call

0333 331 5394

or search online for

‘Bupa Care Homes’

†Calls to 03 numbers charged at no more than local rate and count towards any inclusive minutes from mobiles.

Quote based on real testimonial retrieved from www.carehome.co.uk, accessed August 2014. Names changed to protect identities.

†

HEALTH

Hearing loss is often misunderstood. There is a common perception that hearing loss means that sounds in the world around us become quieter and quieter until, eventually, they cannot be heard at all.

away from these ideal conditions the

is putting a great deal of effort, even if

harder it is for them to hear.

they are not aware of it, into trying to

someone is talking but not always

If you are not sure whether you have

In reality, this level of deafness

understand what is being said, which

hearing loss, some typical types of

is comparatively rare. The

may lead to inappropriate responses

situations to watch out for are:-

majority of people suffering from

or getting the wrong end of the stick

hearing loss will hear plenty of

entirely. This can be humorous but,

sounds around them and cope

often, others will interpret this as

satisfactorily in some situations,

rudeness or as evidence that the

especially when speaking to

person saying the wrong thing is

someone face to face, one to one

disinterested in the conversation and

and when it is quiet. The further

not bothering to pay attention. More

So, much more commonly, hearing loss is about a lack of clarity, especially of speech, when there are other sounds in the background or when the speaker’s face or mouth cannot be seen. In this instance, a person with hearing loss will know

likely, the person not hearing properly

38

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.

• Asking others to repeat what they

have said.

• Needing the volume on TV or

radio turned up.

• Asking the person with you to

tell you what was said by another

speaker – at the time or later.

• Laughing when others around you

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

do, even at jokes when you did

common denominator; maybe

If:-

not hear the punchline.

someone is not hearing clearly.

• you are properly assessed,

• No longer getting the same

enjoyment from social gatherings,

including family occasions, where

you don’t feel a part of it or feel

left out.

should have your hearing checked by an audiologist.

For the vast majority of people the

• Not being able to converse

If any of these seem familiar, you

most effective solution will be to wear

successfully in a car.

hearing aids. Do not be discouraged

• Struggling to converse in a

busy pub or restaurant or at a

party, especially when others

seem to be coping well in that

environment.

by those who have tried hearing aids and failed. If done properly, hearing aids will help you hear better and will improve your quality of life.

• you are issued with the correct 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.

• Not hearing the doorbell ring

or the telephone or the signals on

If you want a thorough hearing assessment and be given impartial and

kitchen appliances.

comprehensive advice, contact Mary Hare Hearing Centre on (01635) 523343

• Blaming others for not speaking

or visit the shop in Weavers Walk, Newbury, RG14 1AL. Further information

clearly. If enough people are not

is available on the website www.maryharehearingcentres.co.uk

speaking clearly, look for the

Cutting edge technology with quality aftercare guaranteed “Wireless, hands free listening ... through your hearing aids”

Pair your hearing aids with Surflink Technology to enable you to link with 4 bluetooth devices at any one time.

Connect hands free with your: • Mobile Phone • Television • Radio/ MP3 Player • Tablet and more...

Hearing Centre OPEN DAY Tuesday 14th October

Come along for information about the latest technologies, free hearing assessments, wax removal, professional advice, video otoscopy, school tours, tea/ coffee and more...

Event will be held @ Arlington Arts Centre, Snelsmore Common, Newbury, RG14 3BQ

Tel: (01635)523343

Web: maryharehearingcentres.co.uk

Address: Mary Hare Hearing Centre, Weavers Walk, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 1AL.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

39

FROM THE FIRST FROM THE WHISTLE TOFIRST THE LAST

WHISTLE TO THE LAST

Wembley Stadium is home to the most important games in football, from The FA Community Shield and the UEFA EURO 2016 qualifiers to TheWembley FA Cup Final.

To findisout how to youthe canmost guarantee your place at this Stadium home important games in football, seasons biggest sport and entertainment events with Club Wembley, from The FA Community Shield and England’s European Qualifiers to call The 0800FA783 1440 or email sales@wembleystadium.com Cup Final.

To find out how you can guarantee your place at

this year’s biggest sport and entertainment events with Club Wembley, call 0800 783 1440