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SOUTH ESSEX APRIL - JUNE 2014 EDITION 2

Get away more this year with Just Go! Holidays

Robert Lindsay

Talks about the Northwest Premiere of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels...

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s

Dr Rahul Doshi's Five simple steps to beautiful teeth WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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Bookings Hotline: 01245 231262

9

ROSES & CATALONIAN CHARM

DAYS

Sun 20th – Mon 28th Apr

LATE AVAILABILITY FOR 2014 HOLIDAYS

What better way to shake off the British weather than on this holiday to Spain’s famous sunny Costa Brava. Roses is both a historic town and seaside resort, situated on the attractive coastline and is ideally suited for our excursions, a lovely area, quaint towns and villages along the seaside and inland, as well as the vibrant city of Barcelona, one of Spain’s cultural centres.

Our base will be the 4* Mediterraneo Park Hotel which is located right in the middle of Roses bay, just 180m from the beach. The hotel has indoor and outdoor pools, sauna and whirlpool.

An overnight stay at the Novotel Dijon Sud will be made on the outward and return journeys.

Full itinerary available in main holiday brochure, please ring if required.

Tour Price

£679.00

Single Supplement

£158.50

All terms and conditions apply for these tours in the 2014 holiday brochure.

Price includes 8 nights dinner, bed & breakfast, return ferry crossings, guided tour of Barcelona, wine & water with dinner at main hotel, executive coach travel, excursions as described, currency Euro, passports required

4

DAYS

DUTCH BULBS PARADE WEEKEND, HOLLAND Fri 2nd – Mon 5th May

The land of tulips, windmills, clogs and canals await you on this lovely break including a visit to Keukenhof Gardens and a chance to see the famous Flower Parade through the streets of Lisse.

The province situated north of Amsterdam is considered to be traditional Holland and Volendam, the pretties and most popular village situated on the Ijsselmeer has a lively harbour, fish auction and tiny houses with pointed gables.

It is famous for traditional costumes that are still worn to this day. We stay at the traditional 3* Best Western Hotel Spaander boasting an excellent seafront location in Volendam overlooking the Ijsselmeer. The Spaander Hotel is full of original oil paintings and is a typical Dutch Hotel.

Tour Price Single Supplement

£68.00

Travel Insurance

£26.00

Price includes 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast, return ferry crossing, excursions as described, executive coach travel, entrance to Keukenhof Gardens, currency Euro, passports required

5

DAYS

POOLE & DORSET

Mon 16th – Fri 20th Jun

Poole is a friendly, easy going seaside town, with its traditional quay still very much at its heart and that’s where you’ll find Thistle Poole Hotel, offering superb views over one of the worlds largest natural harbours and the Purbeck Hills beyond. During your stay enjoy nearby Brownsea, the largest island in Poole harbour owned by the National Trust, Brownsea Island is also famous as the birthplace of the boy scouts and is a haven for wildlife.

Tour Price Travel Insurance

£389.00 £22.00

Price includes 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast accommodation, Sandbanks ferry & train ride, Athelhampton House, cruise to Brownsea Island, executive coach travel

£39.00

5

TEWKESBURY & THREE CHOIRS COUNTRY

DAYS

Sun 25th – Thu 29th May

This holiday is centred in the picturesque town of Tewkesbury, with its famous Abbey, perfectly placed to explore the ‘Three Choirs’ inspiration in Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Our base will be the 4* Hilton Puckrup Hall situated in 140 acres of glorious parkland on the edge of the Cotswolds, with panoramic views of the Malvern Hills, an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the scenic views. There is also a living well health club with swimming pool and fitness suite.

Tour Price

£398.00

Travel Insurance

Single Supplement

£369.00 £80.00

Travel Insurance

£22.00

Price includes 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast accommodation, Elgar Museum, cathedral tour, river cruise, Hampton Court Castle Gardens, excursions as described, executive coach travel

5

CHATSWORTH HOUSE & THE PEAK DISTRICT

DAYS

Mon 7th – Fri 11th Jul

The Peak District National Park is a lovely area of varied scenery. Wild hilltops, sheep grazed crags, lush green valleys, babbling streams and picturesque villages and towns. Our itinerary is as varied as the landscape and not only takes advantage of some of England’s finest views but also the fabulous ‘Palace of the Peaks’ Chatsworth. We make the most of our hotels location so we have a wonderful tour with something for everyone.

Tour Price Single Supplement

£379.00 £48.00

Travel Insurance

£22.00

Price includes 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast accommodation, executive coach travel, excursions as described, entrance to Chatsworth House, Crich Tramway Village, NT Belton House, talk on hotel & quiz night

www.lodgecoaches.co.uk

5

DAYS

EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO Sun 3rd – Thu 7th Aug

Single Supplement

£419.00 £68.00

Travel Insurance

£22.00

Price includes 4 nights bed & breakfast accommodation, 3 evening meals, excursions as described, admission to Tattoo, entrance to Traquair House, executive coach travel

4

DAYS

DUTCH DAHLIAS ON PARADE, HOLLAND Fri 5th – Mon 8th Sep

Holland plays host once again to this unique and unmissable ‘Dutch dahlia Parade’. Lodge Coaches make their first ever visit to Zundert, located just over the border from Belgium where on the first Sunday in September, Zundert hosts its annual flower parade attracting thousand of visitors every year. It is one of the most beautiful parades in the Netherlands and has been turning heads since 1936. Around 20 hamlets come together to use only dahlias to make their amazing parade floats.

Tour Price Single Supplement

£398.00 £75.00

Travel Insurance

£26.00

Price includes 3 nights dinner bed & breakfast accommodation, return ferry crossing, seat/flower parade, excursions as described, executive coach travel, currency Euro, passports required

5

DAYS

CORNISH COAST & GARDENS

Thu 18th – Mon 22nd Sep

The Cornish coast deserves its international reputation as a coastline of immense natural beauty. Craggy cliffs frame glorious coves with sandy beaches as hillsides fall into the sea.

The picturesque little towns and villages which punctuate this coast add character and colour to the scene. Our tour includes a visit to the now well established Eden Project. Staying at The Queen Hotel, situated on the promenade in Penzance, it has striking views across to Saint Michaels Mount, the Lizard peninsula and out to sea.

Tour Price Travel Insurance

DAYS

Fri 22nd – Mon 25th Aug

This five-day break takes us north over the border to New Lanark a world heritage site.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is one of the worlds most spectacular shows set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. The tattoo will host a celebration of talent from around the world including pipers, gymnasts and dancers, the exciting programme will include probably its two most popular items the music of the massed pipes and drums and of course the massed military bands from around the world.

Tour Price

4

GLOUCESTERSHIRE & WYE VALLEY

£389.00 £22.00

Price includes 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast accommodation, entrance into the Eden Project, entrance to Trengwainton Garden, boat cruise River Fal, excursions as described, executive coach travel

This short break with a twist is based in Upton St Leonard in Gloucestershire. Our tour includes the Wye Valley and River Wye which flows majestically through the unspoilt region of pretty villages and ancient towns with an abundance of black and white timbered buildings.

Its close proximity to Wales means that the border is criss-crossed during our excursions. Here we stay at the 4* Bowden Hall Hotel, Upton St Leonard’s set in acres of rolling park and woodland.

This elegant hotel has fabulous views across the garden down onto the lake. The hotel also has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, spa bath and fitness centre.

Tour Price

£289.00

Travel Insurance

£19.00

Price includes 3 nights dinner bed & breakfast accommodation, antiques quiz/auction, tea/coffee on arrival, porterage, excursions as described, executive coach travel

5

WEYMOUTH & DELIGHTFUL DORSET, NT TOUR

DAYS

Mon 8th – Fri 12th Sep

The great sweep of Weymouth Bay encompasses a superb vista of land and sea with an award winning beach, panoramic esplanade, picturesque harbour and traffic free town centre combining to create that special holiday magic. The surrounding countryside is some of the finest in England whilst the Dorset coastline is unrivalled for fine coastal scenery with dramatic cliffs and quiet coves. This tour incorporates some of the National trust properties and Film locations in and around this beautiful county.

Tour Price

£385.00

Non NT Members

£435.00

Travel Insurance

£22.00

Price includes 4 night’s dinner, bed & breakfast accommodation, executive coach travel, excursions as described

5

NORTHUMBERLAND GARDENS & COAST

DAYS

Sun 12th – Thu 16th Oct

A region of unspoilt scenic beauty with huge expanses of untouched countryside and a spectacular coastline with impressive castles and little fishing villages which have created a heritage coast of outstanding natural beauty.

Beautiful gardens and castles some of which we visit during this tour. Our base will be The White Swan Hotel set in the heart of Alnwick, this 3-star former 18th Century coaching Inn combines its unique heritage with superb accommodation. The hotel is probably best known for its Olympic dining room which features magnificent wood paneling, mirrors and stained glass windows from Titanics sister ship.

Tour Price Single Supplement

£409.00 £72.00

Travel Insurance

£22.00

Price includes 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast accommodation, entrances to Alnwick Gardens & Castle, Bamburgh Castle, Floors Castle, executive coach travel, excursions as described

CONTENTS

8-9

20-21

inside...

18-19

6-7

Protecting your money ...

Family Law advice from Birkett Long

8-9

Portugal ...

Two of the most traditional and interesting regions of the country

10

Out and About ...

Theatre Dates

14-15 24-25 Your Health in Good Hands...

With Rivers Hospital.

14-15 Robert Lindsay...

Talks about the Northwest Premier of

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

McGrath Media.

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

18-19 In Search of the Perfect Curry ...

Recipes from Rick Stein

e: mcgrathadmin@btconnect.com

20-21 How Colours Change a Room ...

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LEISURE

Discover the wonders of walking during Get Walking Week People in Great Britain are being encouraged to get out on their feet and discover the wonders of walking during the Ramblers biggest ever free short walks festival from 3-10 May.

Get Walking Week makes it easier for people to take their first steps into walking, which leads to a happier and healthier lifestyle. During the week the Ramblers will be offering hundreds of free short walks, giving people a taster of what walking is all about.

Although walking is very straightforward, the benefits are endless, and it’s never too late to start. It’s good for your health, it lifts your mood, it’s a sociable activity you can do with family or friends and a great way to meet new people. It also counts towards the recommended 150 minutes of physical activity everyone should be doing each week.

Simon Barnett, director of walking development at the Ramblers, said: “Walking is a great first step to fitness.

It places very low strain on the body compared to other forms of exercise, making it suitable for almost everyone to take up.

“It is especially good for people later in life as it can help reduce the risk of osteoarthritis, help people gain strength and balance to reduce

bone fractures, and dramatically cut the risks of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

“We want as many people as possible to step out on one of our short walks during Get Walking Week so that they can experience the many benefits walking has to offer. The walks are suitable for people of all fitness levels and you don’t need any special equipment to join in, so why not find a walk near you and take those important first steps towards a healthier and happier lifestyle.”

For anyone who would prefer to head out on their own time with friends and family, the Ramblers has hundreds of free routes on Ramblers Routes that people can download – and hundreds more available if people sign up to become a member.

Ramblers groups will be leading plenty of walks across Great Britain for everyone to enjoy.

Walking for Health, England’s largest network of health walk schemes, run by the Ramblers and Macmillan Cancer Support, will be inviting people in England to walk with their local schemes, helping them to get walking and keep walking.

• Walking for Health is England’s largest network of health walk schemes, offering free short walks across the country to help people lead a more active lifestyle. They’ve done this with great success for over 12 years, and in this time improved the lives of thousands of people.

Now the Ramblers and Macmillan Cancer Support are working together to ensure Walking for Health gets even more people active and healthy in the years to come. Find your nearest health walk scheme at www. walkingforhealth.org.uk/walkfinder.

• Ramblers Routes is a collection of Britain’s best walks from the experts.

It’s an exciting online library of highquality walking routes across Britain, created for walkers by Ramblers volunteers. Each route is developed and thoroughly checked by our

volunteers. There are hundreds of free routes for anyone to enjoy simply by registering on the Ramblers website; and hundreds more premium routes available as a special benefit for Ramblers members. Explore these wonderful routes at www.Ramblers. org.uk/ramblersroutes.

Adrienne’s Story When Adrienne retired after working as a medical journalist for nearly 40 years, she wanted to take up some form of exercise, but didn’t like the idea of being cooped up in a noisy gym. After seeing a leaflet for her local Walking for Health scheme - Epping Forest: Lifewalks - she decided to try out a walk. “I liked walking and thought it would be motivating to walk regularly with a group, rather than on my own.” says Adrienne. “I loved the first walk and found the walk leaders very friendly and helpful.”

Adrienne is now a regular on the walks and hopes it is keeping the ageing process at bay.

“I’m more physically active than when I worked, and haven’t put on any weight since I retired a few years ago!” Adrienne told us. “Lifewalks encourage people to walk more briskly than usual, to get outside in all weathers and to do something positive first thing in the morning.”

She now feels she is part of her local community and has enjoyed making new friends. “I’ve got to know more local people and I feel more connected to where I live, whereas when I worked full-time and commuted into London, I only knew my immediate neighbours. I look forward to meeting these friends and we often go for coffee after the walks.”

Photo: Credit Mark Treacey 5

Family law

advice from Birkett Long LLP

Living longer is something for us all to celebrate but with it comes challenges, such as how to pay for care that we, or our relatives, may need.

The rules surrounding care fees are extremely complex and often misunderstood. For example, when may you be eligible for free care, when must you pay; how much of your own money can you keep; will the local authority help pay for your care? It is estimated that more than 80% of people currently living in a residential or nursing home should not be paying for their care, either in full or in part. In addition, many people who do pay for their care are often not aware of other state help that may be available. Nor do they know that there are options that could mean they don’t need to sell their own home or that of their loved ones.

Members of Birkett Long’s team who advise on matters relating to the elderly.

Greater confusion often arises over when an individual is entitled to free care (provided by the NHS), partly or fully funded care by the local authority or no financial assistance at all. People are also confused about who they should approach to ensure that the right level of care is being provided by the right people.

More and more people are challenging decisions about care fees and successfully reclaiming fees that have already been paid. These reclaims are not limited to those who are still in residential care and can include reclaims by executors of estates where the person receiving care has since died.

Birkett Long’s experts in legal issues affecting the elderly can explain who is eligible to reclaim care fees, how the assessment process works and what entitlement you, or your relatives may have.

6

Amanda Brown (top left) 01206 217388 or amanda.brown@birkettlong.co.uk Caroline Dowding (top right) 01206 217394 or caroline.dowding@birkettlong.co.uk Emma Harper (bottom left) 01206 217387 or emma.harper@birkettlong.co.uk Ben Parmenter (bottom right) 01245 453834 or ben.parmenter@birkettlong.co.uk

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

protecting your money With the Bank of England base interest rate held at 0.5% for over four years, bank and building society savings account interest rates remain unattractive.

Investors with bank and building society Cash Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs), despite the tax free status, have been particularly affected.

People who have held variable rate ISAs for several years may have accumulated a considerable amount, although they may be receiving an interest rate of just 0.1% to 0.5%. This happens because attractive introductory bonus rates are subsequently followed by much lower rates. It is possible to effect ISA transfers but these generally result in rates below the current rate of inflation.

Fortunately there are alternatives. Deposit based structured products have become popular as an attractive, lower risk investment option.

Deposit plans offer an investment protected by the Government’s Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), up to £85,000 per individual or £170,000 joint. These plans can be held either as an ordinary investment, i.e. with the returns being subject to income tax liability, or as an ISA and it is possible to effect ISA transfers into these plans.

The returns are potentially more attractive and could produce, for example, 4.0-4.5% per annum.

Some deposit plans are designed to pay out the full maturity value if the FTSE 100 index is one or more points higher at maturity compared to the Initial Index starting level of the plan. However, should the FTSE 100 index be lower at maturity, only the original investment would be repaid, albeit in full. A number of deposit plans now have a kick-out facility, which provides four, or more, timed opportunities when the plan can mature/pay out subject to the FTSE index level being higher.

find out more Paul Chilver, the author of this article, is a financial planner who advises on investments, pensions, insurance, inheritance tax planning and mortgages.

He holds the Diploma for Financial Advisers and is a member of the Institute of Financial Services. Paul has also completed the Certificate in Long Term Care Insurance, with a view to joining the Society of Later Life advisers (SOLLA).

Birkett Long’s independent financial advisers work closely with other teams within the firm, for example, regarding inheritance tax planning or pension sharing during a divorce. The team aims to communicate in a clear way that allows clients to understand their options and make informed choices about their finances.

Paul Chilver 01206 217614 or paul.chilver@birkettlong.co.uk

about Birkett Long Birkett Long LLP is one of the largest law firms and independent financial advisers in Essex, with offices in Chelmsford, Colchester and Basildon. We work in specialist teams and offer expert advice. We always try to avoid using jargon, give clear explanations and treat our clients in a respectful but friendly manner.

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The and financial advice were excellent!

BASILDON CHELMSFORD COLCHESTER www.birkettlong.co.uk Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (Number: 488404) Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Number: 481245) Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage

7

50 Plus Travel

sponsored by

By Noel Josephides, Managing Director of Sunvil www.sunvil.co.uk

to a considerable degree upon this wonderful natural product. Portugal is the largest cork exporter in the world.

NASA uses Alentejo cork to insulate the cones of its space capsules and to protect them from heat damage on reentry to the earth’s atmosphere. And cork is not only for wine bottles – you can buy cork jewellery, cork umbrellas, cork i-Pad covers - in fact, just about anything and everything can these days be manufactured from cork.

The Alentejo and the Centro Region of Portugal Visitors to Portugal who fly into Lisbon Airport tend either to head south to the Algarve or north to Estoril, Cascais, the city of Porto and the Douro Region.

In doing so, they inadvertently miss out on two of the most traditional and interesting regions of the country. Both the Centro region - immediately north of Lisbon - and the Alentejo region - between Lisbon and the Algarve - are areas that tend to be driven through quickly yet, together, they make up half of Portugal, and both deserve to be visited in their own right.

The Alentejo was known as the bread basket of Portugal and it boasts some of the country’s tastiest dishes. The countryside is made up of wide, sweeping plains interspersed with medieval hilltop villages topped by dramatic castles. In spring the region is awash with colour - the fields are full of flowers of red, yellow, white 8

Evora, just a 75-minute drive inland from Lisbon on uncrowded roads, is the capital of the Alentejo (which means below the Tejo, or Tagus, river).

It is steeped in history, yet really alive and buzzing courtesy of the university within its ancient walls. It was the seat of the Kings of Portugal in the 15th and 16th centuries and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety.

The Atlantic coastline, south of Lisbon, is like that of the Algarve 50 years ago and much of it is protected by law. Coastal villages like Porto Covo and Vila Nova de Milfontes are firm favourites yet have escaped mass development and still have great character; they are ideal for a lazy summer holiday and perhaps a little gentle coastal walking on a wellmarked pathway, the Rota Vicentina, if that appeals. The coast is a few degrees cooler than inland, often with a pleasant breeze in the height of summer. Beaches are many and seldom crowded, even in the peak of the season.

and purple or blue hues. The Alentejo produces 46% of Portugal’s excellent wine but has a mere 6% of its population. It is quiet, it is uncrowded and it is beautiful.

In the summer it’s very hot - in fact, the hottest place in Portugal. Around May/June, depending on the weather, they harvest the cork trees; this is the region of the cork oak tree and the economy of the Alentejo still depends

So why have so few people heard of this region? It’s a very rural area with some excellent accommodation of character but local politics has meant an initial lack of interest in tourism, making it a latecomer to the travel game. This very fact will stand it in good stead – it has been able to learn from mistakes made elsewhere.

The north of the Alentejo region is next-door to Centro, the central region of Portugal or, as I prefer to call it, the

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That permission can be refused because, within the ancient walls, the Dean wields as much power as the President of the Republic.

Needless to say, Coimbra is a must but there are also other interesting ancient cities to explore, like Aveiro on the coast and Viseu, the gateway to the Estrela National Park. Each area has its own local cuisine and specialities.

Some of the most famous and delicious Portuguese cheeses come from the Estrela region.

Heart of Portugal. This is an area that stretches from its Atlantic coastline, with long beaches stretching for miles, into a mountainous region with some historic fortified villages and castles along the border with Spain that defended Portugal from invasion in the Middle Ages. The most impressive are Almeida, Castelo Rodrigo, Monsanto, Sortelha, Piodao and Idanha-A-Velha.

These castles and villages conjure up images of knights in armour, of damsels in distress and heroic deeds.

Legends abound in this area which, in turn, was overrun by the Romans, Moors and Spanish. Tales are recounted of epic battles and ancient rituals, and religious festivals are still very much part of daily life. The Serra da Estrela national park is snow bound in winter and, in the summer, ideal for walks with breathtaking views across forested landscapes.

The capital of the area is Coimbra, recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. This is a thriving, vibrant city, with a population of

2.3 million, and it is the seat of the oldest university in Portugal, dating from 1290. Since then, it’s been at the centre of Portuguese intellectual life. A visit to the university is a must and the 18th century Baroque library is one of many priceless historical monuments. There are three exquisite gilded chambers housing 300,000 leather-bound texts behind imposing wooden doors, probably some 30 feet tall. The precious books in this library are safeguarded from insect damage by resident bats, which sleep behind the serried rows of ancient tomes by day and eat insects by night; the mahogany reading tables are covered in cloth overnight to protect them from bat excrement. I would visit Portugal simply to re-visit the library - it is so fascinating and so totally extravagant.

The university is nicknamed the ‘Little Vatican’ as it is protected by ancient charter and even the police have to request permission from the Dean before they enter the campus.

These two provinces, the Centro/ Heart of Portugal and the Alentejo, together make ideal fly-drive holiday combinations. There is some stunning accommodation, too, with two of my personal favourite hotels found in the adjacent regions. The Casa da Insua is a wonderful 18th century Baroque confection, located on the outskirts of Viseu in Centro, where you can try your hand at making cheese in the dairy if you wish, afterwards exploring an excellent in-house museum and art gallery. In the Alentejo, just outside Evora, is the Covento do Espinheiro, a historic monument once lived in by the Kings of Portugal - a superlative hotel that manages to be friendly while offering the best of cuisine and comfort. The manager’s tour of the hotel and a wine tasting in the former monastery’s water cistern is not to be missed.

The true character of Portugal lies very much within these two regions and yet so many of us simply drive through on our way south or north. I urge you to spend a little time exploring them; you’ll enjoy a relaxing and inspiring taste of the real Portugal.

Vist www.sunvil.co.uk for further information about holidays to this region or call 0208 568 4499.

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

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9

OUT AND ABOUT ~ THEATRE 8 MAY

1 & 2 JUNE

A Night Of Dirty Dancing

Killer Queen

Chelmsford City Theatres, Fairfield Road, Chelmsford Essex CM1 1JG This fast-moving, slickly-choreographed theatrical treat features all the hits from one of the greatest movie soundtracks of all time.

Box Office: 01245 606505

Queen´s Theatre Hornchurch, Billet Lane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT Spectacular stage set up, stunning costumes and terrific special effects - just like Queen themselves! www.queens-theatre.co.uk

22 MAY

Hot Flush

6 JUNE

Chelmsford City Theatres, Fairfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1JG Share in the friendships, the secrets, the tears, the laughs and ups and downs of four ordinary women – and one man – living extraordinary lives.

Box Office: 01245 606505

Chelmsford City Theatres, Fairfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1JG ITV’s top comedy of all time, Rising Damp, comes to the stage in a brand-new production.

Box Office: 01245 606505

Rising Damp

16 - 21 JUNE

24 MAY

Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend SS0 7RA

SOUL LEGENDS Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend SS0 7RA This smash-hit, Stateside spectacular features more soul classics than any other production.

Call: 01702 351135 Sat 8th March, 7:30pm.

Standard £29.00 Concession £27.00

28 MAY

Fri 7th March, 7:30pm.

DREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS

Mon 14th to Sat 19th April, 7:30pm.

Wed & Sat matinees, 2:30pm.

Standard £28.00 - £30.00 Concession £26.00 - £28.00

THE FUREYS & DAVEY ARTHUR

Wed 9th April, 2:30pm.

Sun 9th March, 7:30pm.

BILLY&WALLY’S

MEET THE AUTHOR: CHRIS TARRANT

BLESS ‘EM ALL Standard £13.00 Concession £11.00

Standard £18.00 Concession £17.00

THE DAY THE Hertford Theatre, The Wash, MUSIC DIED Hertford SG14 1PS One of our most popular veteran broadcasters, best known for presenting ITV's Who Wants GISELLE To Be A Millionaire for fifteen nail-biting years, comes to talk about his new book: Dad's PETERWar. ALLISS CALL 01992 531 500.

BUDDY HOLLY 55th ANNIVERSARY TOUR

All tickets £17.50

Tue 25th March, 7:30pm.

MOSCOW STATE BALLET

Standard £21.50 Concession £19.50

Thu 27th March, 7:30pm.

AN EVENING WITH THE ‘VOICE OF GOLF’ All Tickets £20.00

31 MAY

LITTLE HOWARD'S BIG SHOW FOR KIDS Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PS With interactive stand-up, live animation on stage and lots of jokes and songs this really is a show that all the family can enjoy!

CALL 01992 531 500.

Sat 3rd May, 7:00pm.

BIG NEW VARIETY SHOW All tickets £17.50

Fri 9th May, 7:30pm.

BILLY OCEAN All tickets £25.00* * plus £1.00 per ticket booking fee

Fri 30th May, 7:30pm.

VIENNA FESTIVAL BALLET

SWAN LAKE

Standard £22.00* Concession £18.00* * plus £1.00 per ticket booking fee

4 JULY

An Evening of Burlesque Queen's Theatre Hornchurch, Billet Lane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT Direct from London’s West End, tantalising yet tasteful, camp and colourful, this fascinating art form is brought to life for your delectation! www.queens-theatre.co.uk

23 JULY

TEA DANCE SUMMER BALL Bedford Corn Exchange St Paul's Square, Bedford MK40 1SL Dance to the live music from Robert Peel (back by popular demand) in the atmospheric setting of the Bedford Corn Exchange.

CALL: 01234 344813

1 JUNE

15 SEPTEMBER

THE SOUNDS OF THE GLENN MILLER ERA

PSYCHIC SALLY: ON THE ROAD 2014

Bedford Corn Exchange St Paul's Square, Bedford MK40 1SL Commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of D Day. CALL: 01234 344813

10

Inspired by the 7 smash hit multi-million selling albums of the same name, the West End sell out sensation Dreamboats and Petticoats features some of the greatest hit songs of the Rock ‘n’ Roll era.

Call: 01702 351135

Bedford Corn Exchange St Paul's Square, Bedford MK40 1SL International psychic and star of hit TV show Psychic Sally: On The Road, Sally Morgan returns with her phenomenal interactive stage show.

CALL: 01204 520661

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Retirement has so much to offer...

So why not make the most of it?

If you are wondering about how to get the most out of your retirement, and enjoy your leisure time to the full in the forthcoming years, you are not alone. Many retirees are faced with the question of ‘What are we going to do?’

Well, how about this? Your very own Luxury Lakeside Lodge at Highfields Country Retreat.

More and more people entering retirement are now looking for a new, exciting and different way of life - a lifestyle which enables you to enjoy every single day, relax and forget about the stresses and pressures of the outside world.

Whether you are looking for a beautiful, yet affordable, second home to escape to whenever you wish, or a secluded tranquil place where you can spend most of your time, Highfields Country Retreat has the perfect solution.

They offer beautiful Lodge Homes in stunning lakeside positions with excellent spacing, all of which are set within their private estate - some 190 acres of beautiful lakes, meadows and woodlands. It is a community of like-minded people in a safe and secure environment where peace, tranquillity and relaxation are paramount.

The Lodge Homes are very efficient to run, low maintenance and even the grounds are all taken care of by the park staff. All you have to do is sit back and relax – read a book, take in the views, perhaps a spot of fishing or enjoy a leisurely walk with the dog.

Sound good? Well what are you waiting for… why not get in touch and see if they can help you make the most of your retirement too?

We only came to look and became instantly hooked! The peaceful surroundings and the wildlife are wonderful. The people are very friendly and most welcoming. It is one of the best things we have ever done!!

To find out more, call: 01529 241185 or visit:

www.lincolnshirelodges.co.uk

OUT AND ABOUT

EXPLORE, EXPERIENCE ENJOY ...

Sun 11 May 2014 Old Harlow Craft and Produce Market at St John’s Arts & Recreation Centre

Sun 11 May 2014 Textile Fair 2014 at Warner Textile Archive

Sun 18 May 2014 Vintage Fair at Hedingham Castle at Hedingham Castle

Sat 24 May 2014 Broomfield Craft and Produce Market at THE BROOMFIELD CENTRE

Sat 24 May 2014 Murder Mystery Dinner at The County Hotel

Tue 27 - Sat 31 May 2014 29th Colchester Real Ale Festival & Cider Festival at Colchester Arts Centre

Tue 27 May 2014 Saffron Walden Emporium - Collectables, Crafts at Saffron Walden Town Hall

Thu 29 May 2014 Frinton Festival at St Mary’s Church

Sat 31 May 2014 Frinton Festival at All Saints Church

Sat 31 May 2014 Panfield Summer Fete at The Bell Inn Field

Sat 31 May - Sun 1 Jun 2014 The Cressing Temple Country Fair at Cressing Temple Barns

Wed 4 - Fri 6 Jun 2014 French Market at Saffron Walden Common

Sat 7 - Sun 8 Jun 2014 Chelmsford Mind Body Spirit Festival at Selex Marconi Social Club

Sun 8 Jun 2014 Old Harlow Craft and Produce Market at St John’s Arts & Recreation Centre

Sat 14 - Sun 15 Jun 2014 Air-Britain Vintage & Classic Aircraft Fly-In at North Weald Airfield

Sat 14 Jun 2014 Art Fair from Arcady Events at Assembly Rooms Dedham

Tue 17 Jun 2014 Saffron Walden Emporium - Collectables, Crafts at Saffron Walden Town Hall

Sat 21 Jun 2014 BRIGHTLINGSEA CARNIVAL at Brightlingsea

Sat 21 Jun - Sat 5 Jul 2014 Maldon Arts Festival at St Mary’s Church

Sat 28 - Sun 29 Jun 2014 Food & Drink Festival at Castle Park

MILTON KEYNES INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL 18 - 27 JULY 2014 ..

18 - 27 July

21 - 23 July

The lock shift songs by kaffe matthews

RAY LEE: CHORUS

Central Milton Keynes venue tbc Recline on 'sonic beds' and enjoy a unique experience created in this new commission.

18 - 19 July

iioptopie: fous de bassin (water fools)

Willen Lake.

A spectacular outdoor production with fire and pyrothechnics on Willen Lake.

18 - 21 July

CASUS: KNEE DEEP

The Spiegeltent MK15 ODS Exquisitely beautiful acrobatics and astonishing feats.

18 - 2O July

UNDER THE VAULTED SKY CREATED BY ROSEMARY LEE

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Cathedral of Trees, Newlands Milton Keynes' magical Cathedral of Trees is the venue for this new dance performance by awardwinning choreographer Rosemary Lee.

Chorus is a giant sound and light installation by award-winning sonic artists Ray Lee. 23 - 24 July

puppet state theatre company: the man who planted trees

The Spiegeltent MK15 ODS Puppet State Theatre Company present The Man Who Planted Trees, adapted from the story by Jean Giono for ages 7+ 25 July, Doors 7.15pm

seth lakeman

The Spiegeltent MK15 ODS Celebrated folk singer-songwriter and virtuoso fiddler Seth Lakeman.

26th July, 7.45pm

THE PUPPINI SISTERS

The Spiegeltent MK15 ODS Think Andrews Sisters with added glamour.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

INTERVIEW: ROBERT LINDSAY

DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS Robert Lindsay had been out walking his dogs and taking the opportunity to learn his lines for his latest show.

The fact that it’s the musical version of the 1988 hit film Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, set to premier in Manchester before going into the West End, was exciting for the 63 year-old actor. But not because he was reprising the role Michael Caine took onscreen as the suave Riviera conman Lawrence Jameson whose life is suddenly disrupted by Steve Martin’s character, the anarchic Freddy Benson.

“I’ve never seen the film,” he admits, “but it’s a wonderful show. The script is incredibly funny and the score by Yazbek (award-winner David Yazbek) is amazing – the man’s a genius.”

The show did run for a time on Broadway where it won awards, “but it seemed to fade away,” adds Lindsay. “This is a totally different show, and there’s a fantastic buzz about it already. I think the plan long-term may be for it to go back to Broadway.”

All of this is a long way from the very first time the Great British Public became aware of young Robert Lindsay when he played a Cockney layabout in the ITV series Get Some In! However, it was when he headed up the Tooting Popular Front as likeable but inept urban guerrilla Wolfie Smith in the hit comedy TV series Citizen Smith that the public really noticed him.

This ran for three years, from 1977 to 1980, and established the actor firmly in viewers’ consciousness. He felt pretty comfortable in the role as he’d come from a council estate in Ilkeston, Derbyshire before graduating from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), and had admittedly leftwing views.

An early flexibility and desire to take on other, different roles – “as well as wanting to play posh people,” he quickly points out – steered him towards more serious productions.

He played Lysander in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Benedick in Much Ado About Nothing in the BBC’s

14

Shakespeare series, and then moved up to Manchester to play Edmund in a Granada TV version of King Lear alongside Sir Laurence Olivier.

He happily admits that his first love, though, is musicals and he famously played the role of Bill Snibson in the acclaimed 1984 London revival of Me and My Girl. This role not only won him an Olivier Award but, when it later transferred to Broadway, a Tony Award as well.

“I find musicals easier because you’ve always got the music, it’s familiar,” states Lindsay.

He has, however, also enjoyed plenty of film roles.

Interestingly, he was at the same place making a different film (Strike It Rich with Mollie Ringwald and Sir John Gielgud) where Dirty Rotten Scoundrels was being filmed.

“I met Steve Martin one day – we’d met previously when I’d been in the States and had dinner together – and he told me about the film he was making,” explains Lindsay. “He seemed to have some reservations about the script and I got the impression that they were adding to it quite a bit themselves.”

Television has proved a remarkable showcase for Lindsay’s talents over the years. Although he believes that he wanted to get away from his roots for a long time – “I lost my way

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The Generation Game with Bruce Forsyth – have three sons and he also has a daughter from his relationship with actress Diana Weston.

It’s plain he doesn’t like being away from his home and family. “But sometimes they have to understand that you have to be, you’re doing it for them,” he states.

For the most part, his children don’t like roles that take him away from them, or his being acknowledged as an actor rather than “just Dad” when he’s with them. “When I was in Hornblower and picking them up from school it was different. Normally, they don’t want me to walk with them and disown me, but suddenly I was cool!”

Ask about the highlights of his career and he swiftly points to the work with Alan Bleasdale and Me and My Girl. “I suppose Citizen Smith, The Entertainer at the Old Vic and Cyrano de Bergerac at the Haymarket were also special,” he adds.

He’s still regularly on TV and had just recorded Have I Got News For You as programme presenter. “You have to watch Mr Hislop and Mr Merton, though,” he says light-heartedly.

“They’re very quick but I think they like actors because they understand timing and not hogging the lines.”

“I find musicals easier because you’ve always got the music, it’s familiar,”

Is there any TV he’d like to do, like Downton Abbey? “No,” he states, “that’s not my bag.

“But I’ve just done a cameo role in Atlantis as the father of Icarus – that was good fun. It’s a very well made series and the boys there were great. My children were also very impressed!” * Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is at Manchester Opera House from February 12 to 22, 2014, in Aylesbury Waterside Theatre from February 26 to March 1 and then at the Savoy Theatre, London from March 10. To find out more go to www.scoundrelswestend.com

a bit in my 30s,” he says – he particularly enjoyed working with gritty Northern writer Alan Bleasdale. Lindsay was in his dark comedy serial G.B.H. (for which Lindsay won a BAFTA) as well as another Bleasdale play, Jake’s Progress with Julie Walters, and recalls both experiences with genuine affection.

He played another posh character when he took on the role of Captain Pellew in the long-running and very successful series of Hornblower with Ioan Gruffudd as the young midshipman of the title.

Was this largely sea-going adventure a fairly physical experience for Lindsay? “Not so much for me, but definitely for Ioan,” he laughs. “What was interesting was that it was the first time I had played a father character.”

His longest running role was also as a father: as dentist Ben Harper in the popular BBC sitcom My Family – this ran for 11 years and still surfaces on Sky channels. “Zoe (Wannamaker) and I had a great time making that,” he states.

Lindsay himself is very much a family man. He and second wife Rosemarie Ford – she was a dancer and a presenter on

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

15

A SMILE

MAKEOVER

- YOUR BEST ACCESSORY Dr. Rahul Doshi ... of The Perfect Smile Studios is the pioneer of a proven technique called ‘Customised Smile Makeover’, so we talked to him to find out more and discover what makes him so different. Dr. Doshi’s innovative ‘Customised Smile Makeover’ has turned him into an international dental sensation. His unique cutting edge technique creates smiles to perfectly suit your particular face, jaw and mouth. He has also founded The Advanced Training Institute, where he shares his knowledge, and has now trained over 7000 dentists worldwide in the art of creating and designing new smiles. So, what is the Customised Smile Makeover? And can he make it work for you?

“Dr. Doshi specifically designed my perfect smile ... I never felt like I was “just another patient” and above all I trusted him and his team”. - Franchesca

Clinical Director

- Perfect Smile Studios and Advanced Training Institute

Clinical Editor

- Premium Practice Dentistry

Director Regional Meetings

- British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

Clinical Advisor

- British Institute of Laser Dentistry

Have you ever wondered how you might improve your confidence in smiling - be like those people who have straight, white teeth and love to show them off? Perhaps you are like many other people who constantly notice the dazzling Hollywood smiles of celebrities that ooze with confidence. Well now you too can get yourself a set of pearly whites that make you look amazing every time you smile. How?

The value of cosmetic dentistry is priceless 76% of people don’t feel confident to smile in a photograph 48% of people make judgements about people by the

look of their smile 77% of people think cosmetic dentistry helps psychologically 67% of people think it helps romantically

means no pain. No drilling also means no injections and hence no discomfort. This treatment is a painless process. It’s that simple!”

Dr Rahul Doshi’s 5 simple steps to beautiful teeth STEP 1: Signature Comprehensive Complete Care Dental Assessment.

The first step in the process is a highly detailed examination process, allowing Dr. Doshi to make suitable recommendations for your treatment.

STEP 2: Your Customised Treatment Plan.

A customised treatment programme suited to you and your budget is created. There are a number of finance options available to help you create your beautiful new smile and be happy about the entire process.

Dr. Doshi has found that the Customised Smile Makeover is a very popular treatment because he uses multi-procedure approaches to provide solutions to a number of problems. He uses the latest dental techniques, including porcelain veneers, crowns, dental implants or bridges and laser technology, to plan a new smile. He also takes account of the type of smile the patient is looking for and the patient’s facial features so that he can create a completely new and individual smile in his design.

He says the key is in the planning and creation of a “Trial Smile”.

This is a temporary smile that the patient can go away with and that he can make changes to according to the patient’s wishes.

This means that the final smile is unique and exactly what the patient is looking for. Dr. Rahul Doshi is a vocal advocate of the Customised Smile Makeover because of its ability to change people. “This one cosmetic treatment can create the most outstanding transformation - releasing a new wave of inner confidence,” he says. “Lives are improved as confidence grows and you no longer feel awkward and uncomfortable in social situations.” State-of-the-art technology, systems and products are used to help design your new smile.

Problems such as crowded teeth, protruding teeth, gaps, unsightly discoloured teeth, crooked teeth and “gummy” or narrow smiles can now all be solved with a treatment which takes a complete holistic look at the whole problem, rather than focusing simply on one element of your smile. “We look at many aspects influencing your ultimate smile makeover to create a beautiful customised smile suited to your face,” says Dr. Doshi. “We let your facial shape, skin colour and tone, facial muscles, bite, lips, the condition and shape of your existing teeth and the condition and visibility of your gums influence the treatment you receive. I believe in making your teeth, look feel and work better!” For example, for those people who dislike the idea of drilling and extensive work, Dr. Doshi can create a new smile without drilling, using UltraThin veneers built into the smile design. “Veneers allow us to change the appearance, colour, shape and form of teeth,” said Dr. Doshi. “No drilling

STEP 3: The Trial Smile.

A key step in the creation of your smile, your “Trial Smile” gives you the opportunity to “try-out” your new smile and see if it is suited to the style and look that you want.

STEP 4: The Review Appointment This is an important appointment where you share your feedback with Dr. Doshi, who then incorporates all the additional changes that you may want. This means that the resulting smile becomes unique to you.

STEP 5: Fitting of your new smile.

Finally, we fit your smile - and past experience tells us that you won’t stop smiling from this day forth!

SPECIAL PROMOTION FOR READERS l

Free Personal Consultation (worth £175) l Free Scan Radiograph to assess your dental health (worth £75) l Free Computerised Photographic Cosmetic Analysis and Advice (worth £79) l Free Smile Imaging for you to preview your teeth.

Call us on 01992 552115 and talk to us about your dental needs or go to www.theperfectsmile.co.uk for more special offers and information.

The Perfect Smile Studios and Institute, 7/9 South Street Hertford, Herts SG14 1AZ

FOOD & DRINK

RICK STEIN - IN SEARCH OF THE PERFECT CURRY

PRAWN FRITTERS WITH CHUTNEY AND KACHUMBER FROM THE ALLEN KITCHEN, KOLKATA I couldn’t work out why these prawn cutlets were so delicious; there seemed to be nothing to them, just a simple batter, a bit of lemon, some onion rings and a bottle of mustard sauce.

But the very enthusiastic blogger from Calcutta called Kaniska was keen to point out that this tiny little hole in the wall was one of the most popular foodie spots in the city. They may have put a secret ingredient in the batter, but I expect the success lies in using chickpea flour and frying the battered prawns in pure ghee. I consumed a few plates of them while having a thoroughly enjoyable conversation about the almost infinite possibilities of street food in that city. Later I woke up in the middle of the night in my hotel with my head spinning, thinking the pace of life was so frenetic that I was surely locked into a madhouse, albeit with some of the tastiest food I’ve ever found. This makes a quite soft batter, not a thick, crisp batter like you’d get with fish and chips.

METHOD To prepare the prawns, pull off the head and peel away the shell, leaving the tail intact. Use a small, sharp knife to run down the back of the prawns and pull out the black intestinal tracts, if visible. Then use the knife to cut almost all the way through the prawns and butterfly them open. Flatten them out a little with the palm of your hand. Pat dry with kitchen towel.

For the batter, mix the flours and salt together, whisk in the egg and enough of the water to give a smooth batter the consistency of single cream.

Serves 4 12 extra large unpeeled Raw prawns For the batter 60g plain flour 60g chickpea flour ¼tsp salt 1 free-range egg 150–225ml water 70g ghee, for frying To serve Lemon wedges, Mustard chutney Tomato chutney or Chilli garlic relish and Kachumber salad

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Heat the ghee in a heavy-based saucepan or karahi over a medium heat. Once hot, dip 2 or 3 prawns in the batter and carefully lower into the ghee. Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning once, until crisp and golden and cooked through. Drain on kitchen paper. Repeat with the remaining prawns. Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over and chutney and kachumber salad on the side.

KACHUMBER SALAD - SERVES 8 -10 300g vine-ripened tomatoes, thinly sliced 1/2 cucumber, sliced 100g red onions, halved and thinly sliced 1 fresh green chilli, finely chopped 1/2 tsp toasted ground cumin seeds 1/4 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder Large handful of fresh coriander leaves, roughly chopped Freshly ground black pepper 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice or white wine vinegar Lime wedges (optional), to finish Layer the ingredients, or gently toss together, just before serving. Serve with lime wedges, if desired.

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SWEET AND TANGY POTATO SHREDS Lilo chevda This is a snack beloved by Gujaratis, a sweet and sour shredded spiced potato dish. The shredded potatoes are deep fried until crisp, as are the lentils, cashew nuts and peanuts, but plenty of lime juice is sprinkled on just before you start eating so you get this tantalizing mix of crisp bits and soft bits. There’s plenty of chilli in it, sweetness from the raisins and sugar, sharpness from the lime juice, and a good sprinkling of salt too. Perfect balance in street food.

Serves 8 150g chana dal (Bengal gram or split yellowpeas), soaked overnight in coldwater 1kg potatoes, such as Maris Piper, peeled, coarsely grated Vegetable oil, for deep frying Salt 3 tbsp unsalted cashew nuts or peanuts (skinned) 1 tbsp sesame seeds 1 tbsp fennel seeds ½tsp turmeric 1½tbsp caster sugar, plus extra to taste 2 fresh green chillies, finely chopped with seeds 2 tbsp raisins Juice of 1–2 limes

METHOD Drain the chana dal and pat dry with kitchen paper. Spread out on a tray lined with a clean tea towel (or more kitchen paper) and leave on one side. Soak the prepared potatoes in salted water for 20 minutes. Drain, use your hands to squeeze out any excess moisture, then pat dry with kitchen paper.

Two-thirds fill a large, deep-sided sturdy pan with vegetable oil and place over a medium heat. Test it’s hot enough by dropping in a piece of potato; it should sizzle and turn golden in about 20 seconds. (Or use a deep-fat fryer heated to 180°C.) Deep-fry the potatoes in batches until crisp and golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. Season with half a teaspoon of salt and set aside. Using the same oil, fry the chana dal in batches for about 3–4 minutes, or until they rise to the surface and turn a shade darker. Drain on kitchen paper, and add to the fried potatoes.

Heat a heavy-based frying pan over a low-medium heat. Add the cashew nuts or peanuts and fry for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted. Add the sesame seeds and fennel seeds and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring all the time.

Remove from the heat and stir in the turmeric, followed by the sugar, half a teaspoon of salt, the chillies and the raisins, then mix with the potatoes and lentils. Add plenty of lime juice to give a sweet-sour flavour (you may need to add more sugar and salt at this stage to balance the flavour). Serve at room temperature in small bowls as a snack.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

19

IN THE HOME

HOW COLOURS CAN CHANGE A ROOM It’s surprising how much the colours and fabrics in a room can vastly improve and change the look of it. Picking a new colour for the walls, or buying a new rug or carpet can mix up the style of your home and make it look brand new.

Colours in the living area are so important and have a big impact on the feel of the room and the mood of the people within it. Painting a room is a much quicker and cheaper way of decorating because it is then easier to change and redecorate in the future, without the hassle of removing and replacing wallpaper.

If you are looking for a warm and energetic environment, try a red or orange tone. This may not be suitable for those wanting to relax with the family as they are loud colours, but if you are the type of person who likes entertaining, then the warmth will brighten up the vibe of the room. Yellow is the perfect warm colour for livening up your space, but try to keep it to a feature or accent wall. Too much of it can be overpowering.

incorporate furniture and patterns, but allow the room

For those folk who want to feel laid back and relaxed, a cooler

refined.

blue or green room might be more suitable. Do be careful of the shades you pick however. An icy blue may make visitors feel unwelcome. A warmer shade, such as turquoise, may give the desired effect you want, but make others feel more

to become a peaceful setting, which looks elegant and

Combinations of fabrics and patterns are also hugely inspiring when it comes to decorating and can create a theme for your house that you may wish to follow; from

welcome as well.

a cosy cottage to a Tuscan villa. If your tastes cater to soft

For a more sophisticated feel, stick to neutral tones, whites

a cottage style home may be your cup of tea, where as

pastels, floral fabrics and rustic wood furnishings, then

and creams. Not only do these provide a blank canvas to

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finding wallpapers with an old plaster texture, tapestry style rugs and cushions with gold, coppers and greens infused can give the feel of Tuscany in your home.

Carpets are a highly important part of a room. Many people prefer plain, block colour materials on their floors, which are great for flexibility when designing and changing styles. However they can make a large room look empty. Going for a patterned carpet might seem a bit risky, but if the right one is selected, it can make a big difference. Patterns can create a focal point in a big room if you feel like keeping the furniture quite simple, but try and avoid busy patterns in a small room as this can make the space seem closed in and cluttered.

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FINAL TIPS...

Fabric texture is also important.

Kristen Schmitt says on Better Homes

Fabrics can easily change up a room, don’t be afraid to experiment.

l

and Gardens that: “Texture adds dimension to a room. It appeals to

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our senses, both visual and tactile,

which makes the room interesting.”

l

Be aware of light and colours. Warmer light coming into your house allows for cooler colours. With colder light, try a warmer colour.

Something as simple as adding a mirror can instantly make a room look bigger.

Add some pillows and cushions to your bed and sofa; fluffy, ruffled,

l

floral,tartan, anything that takes your

l

fancy. Even a textured throw for the in a room. Bring in a patterned rug to create a focal point and make small

Buy a signature piece of furniture or rug you like and base the colour scheme around that.

Bright ornaments and furniture can look great in an otherwise plain, white room.

l

You don’t need a massive income to completely change your style.

l

end of the bed can provide a contrast

Patterns are good, but don’t go overboard.

rooms look larger. Round shapes in a square room can also soften the space. Don’t be afraid of contrasting patterns and colours either, but try not to go beyond three and use samples to decide on the best combinations.

You may think that adding a splash of colour to your home will get expensive but that isn’t the case.

Paint is a much cheaper option than

wallpaper, but how about just re-painting and wallpapering one wall in a vibrant colour or pattern to add some variation. If you can’t afford a new sofa or lounge chair, find some new fabric you like and get the existing furniture reupholstered.

Wooden furniture is easy to transform too. Take an old chair that needs a make over, or buy a cheap one from a second hand shop. All it needs is sanding down and a coat of paint, to fit whatever mood you are going for in the room, and you have a brand new piece of furniture. The same can be done with tables, cupboards, and fireplaces.

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21

NO WORRIES! Bath out - Shower in

FITTED IN JUST ONE DAY!* NO MESS! NO FUSS! NO RE-TILING!

STRUGGLE TO GET IN & OUT OF YOUR OLD BATH? Designed to fit in the same space as your old bath, the Shower Module’s unique construction enables it to be FITTED IN JUST ONE DAY* with NO MESS, NO FUSS and NO RE-TILING either! ● ● ● ● ● ●

Fits in same space as your old bath!

GLASS PROTECTION

Protects against the build-up of grime, lime scale and stains.

Easy clean tile effect - no re-tiling or mouldy grout!

Easy access NEW lower step Optional seat and grab rail Assistance pole Slip resistant floor Built-in shelving

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22

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TWITTER

To lick or not to lick?

Social media shrinks the world When I began my career it was with a three-ton Remington typewriter that deafened the street, now I can find friends in Louisiana with the flick of a finger.

Graham Smith Twitter Column

Social media has shrunk the world, technology is advancing at such a pace that it is difficult to keep pace with the latest developments and new inventions that were once the stuff of science fiction are an everyday occurrence.

But at what cost is all this in terms of progress? Sales of printed books have plummeted as the world spends an increasing portion of its life on computers, tablets and mobile phones and I worry sometimes that there is a danger of losing the power of joined up thought. Recently I was reading a piece sent to me on the Internet and half a dozen of the sentences written didn’t even begin with the standard capital letter. Worrying.

I know people who are closing their Facebook accounts now because they have almost taken over their lives, and I have to say that on Twitter some of the most inane facts and comments are creeping in now. Do you really need to say, "Goodnight tweeps”? Just turn the thing off!

Neither is the net and social media the province of the young, as it was. Increasing numbers of older people are using the social interaction on offer and in many cases it can provide a relief for loneliness and replace a social life lost due to immobility or loss of a partner, so no bad thing there.

Drives you mad Motorists are often an easy target but I notice that recently some have been getting away with blue murder.

Did you read about the idiot who was caught driving with his hands behind his head? The clot was doing 62mph on a major road in a large four-wheel drive and argues in court that he was in full control of the car. Fortunately the court didn’t agree and banned him for a year and imposed a hefty fine and community service order. But what possesses these people?

There are also cases of motorists still driving with over 30 and sometimes 40 points on their licences because magistrates have shown leniency towards their circumstances. Why? If you’ve clocked up that amount of points you’re quite simply not fit to drive a vehicle and I have serious doubts whether you should be using a wheelbarrow without stabilisers.

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Do you seal your envelopes? Apparently whether you should or not has been the subject of a major and no doubt costly operation. Many older people labour under the misapprehension that you can send an unsealed envelope with a second class stamp on and it will be delivered first class. Err, no.

The younger generation have other ideas. One Internet observation reads, “ Whilst I do seal my envelopes the first thing that came to mind when I saw the headline was the story that went round when I was at school and later repeated on a viral email about cockroach eggs being laid on the glue and when you lick it if you get a paper cut they can hatch in your lip.”

A quick Google showed this story is still on the urban legends websites but it wouldn’t surprise me if that was the reason for people around early 30s.

Health and Safety nonsense Yes I know I’ve twittered about this before but here goes again.

Our village church clock was stopped for several months recently because the Health and Safety ogres decreed that the ladder used to reach the mechanism was too short.

This was despite it having been used for years by a six-foot plus ex-policeman.

Consequently it was twenty past three in Haworth for eight months until a grant was raised to provide a longer ladder!

You couldn’t make it up could you? The bell ringers swung on ropes every Monday night during that period but the poor chap couldn’t wind the clock up because some mentally challenged twerp had nothing better to do than condemn the ladder.

Have these people nothing better to do? How come one of them was lurking in Haworth Church clock tower to see the ladder in the first place?

And he was back at Christmas to chuck Santa Claus out of the boiler room because there might have been asbestos!

Poor chap had to cuddle customers in a gazebo outside the building. Talk about no room at the inn, and the donkey had to wear a coat.

These chaps would have been a riot in Bethlehem.

There’s have been no stable accommodation, too draughty and get those sheep of the bedclothes. You cannot bring your camel in here and stop swinging that foul smelling stuff under the baby’s nose….and has that chap with the wings got a Civil Aviation licence? The mind boggles.

23

You deserve the best‌

we’ll treat you that way.

Leading specialists, short waiting times, free parking, modern facilities and great meals. Rivers Hospital is where you can get the quality local healthcare you deserve, when you need it.

Q N E

UIRE

d patients re u s in & y a p Self our Enquire about package Premium Care can to see how we benefit you

For more information call:

01279 602 644 w w w. r i v e r s - h o s p i t a l . c o . u k High Wych Road, Sawbridgeworth CM21 0HH

Your health in good hands www.ramsayhealth.co.uk

Your local choice More and more people are “going private” whenever they need hospital care, in fact last year over nearly 6,000 private patients were admitted to The Rivers Hospital in Sawbridgeworth.

However many people still do not realise how easy it can be to access Private Healthcare, or the benefit it can bring.

Private health care is available to you whether or not you have Private Medical Insurance. If your family doctor is referring you to hospital, simply ask for a private referral. You are advised to check your policy for insurance cover, or if self funding contact the Hospital’s enquiry line for an estimate of costs.

As a Rivers Hospital private patient you will enjoy Premium Care benefits – with high quality levels of care and comfort, to help you quickly back onto the road to recovery. no waiting list When you “Go Private” there is no lengthy waiting list – This means you can get fast access to diagnostic tests, and Consultant Specialist advice, as well as early admission to hospital if you need treatment, therefore getting better more quickly. expert Clinical Care Private patient care is led by a Consultant Specialist, and your treatment will be delivered by the Consultant, rather than a more junior doctor. The Consultant is supported by a friendly, skilled team of nurses and healthcare professionals,

including a doctor on site 24 hours per day.

Medical Facilities Ramsay Health Care invests in the latest medical technologies so that your Consultant has modern clinical equipment to diagnose and treat your condition. safety and Cleanliness You can be reassured that The Rivers hospital has very high standards of Clinical quality and safety, and is strictly regulated by the Care Quality Commission. The hospital has effective infection control measures, with cleanliness a top priority.

Premium Care Benefits – Comfort & Privacy during your hospital stay If you need to stay in hospital you can enjoy fast track admission to a comfortable single room with en-suite facilities, and excellent hotel services including free satellite TV viewing, wi-fi access and newspaper.

Having your own room means you can have privacy when you want it, although The Rivers has open visiting hours, so your family and friends can see you whenever you want company.

The Rivers offers free car parking, so there are no worries about parking charges or penalties.

Caring for you Independent research shows patient satisfaction levels in Ramsay Hospitals to be among the top 2% of all UK organisations, with most patients commenting on how well cared for they have felt during their stay. self Pay Packages – Fixed Cost Care If you are waiting for surgery The Rivers offers self pay package prices, which are all–inclusive of the Surgeon, Anaesthetist and Hospital charges, so you will know the costs at the outset.

Please call the Hospital Services Enquiries team on 01279 602 644 for a price estimate and further advice or guidance.

Private Medical insurance If you are insured – we hope you will appreciate the benefit whenever you need to claim.

Rivers Hospital

Day patients have the benefit of efficient day case processes, in dedicated facilities, which can allow you to go back to the comfort of your own home within hours.

Contact us If you would like more information please visit www.rivers-hospital.co.uk or contact Rivers Hospital, Sawbridgeworth On: 01279 602 644 or email: rivers.enquiries@ramsayhealth.co.uk

For all of us, getting in and out of the bath can become increasingly difficult We sincerely believe that we have the very best service at a price that will be a pleasant surprise.

Our designers are not paid on commission and will not spend a moment longer in your home than is necessary.

Our service starts with a completely free of charge survey with absolutely no obligation.

We can then talk to you about the various products that are available for you to choose from.

We can offer Wetrooms which will offer you completely waterproof level access. No steps or trip hazards. Easy, stylish and safe access for clients with wheelchairs or able bodied alike.

While practicality and safety are paramount, that doesn’t mean that we have to compromise on style any more.

Low profile shower trays for easy access showering,and slip resistant flooring for comfort and safety and much, much more.

As our name suggests, we specialise in easy access showering. We help you retain your independence and privacy in a stylish new bathroom at a price that national and local companies alike find very hard to match.

We will then discuss with you your preferences and needs, and show you a range of solutions that are available to you. Unlike some national companies we are not restricted in what products that we can offer.

At Step-Free Showers Ltd we have the experience and expertise to really understand your needs. We are fully up to date with the latest available products and have many years of knowledge in all things bathroom related.

We can then give you an estimate for the goods and installation. We can take care of everything from start to finish. And remember there is absolutely no obligation and no pressure sales men. We want you to be delighted with our service from start to finish. After all, we want you to recommend us to your friends and neighbours.

We are true bathroom specialists and take a real pride in our work from the design stage to installing the last accessory.

We are proud to still have what some would call “Old fashioned values” of value for money with the very best service.

Our aim is to help you to retain your independence and your privacy in your stylish new bathroom.

One thing that we promise is that we NEVER ask for a deposit on the first visit. Please be very aware of any company that does! They are probably more interested in your money than your needs.

If you are asked for a deposit on the first visit just ask yourself the following questions; 1. Have they given my bathroom the time and consideration that it needs?

2. Have they taken the time to research the products that will be best suited to my needs?

3. Have they shown me in detail, and explained to me the products that they want to sell me?

4. Have they really asked me, or even listened to me, regarding any needs that I may have?

5. Have you really been given the time to fully understand what it is that you are buying?

If the answer is no to any, or even all of the above, please be very wary.

Even if it is a self contained shower unit (what the industry call a pod).

There are numerous questions that should be asked as well as a fitters survey to ensure that this is the correct product for you. Do not be pushed or rushed into saying yes on the first visit.

With Step-Free Showers you will be safe in the knowledge that we do not push….

EVER. Every step of the process will be explained as we go along so that you feel completely comfortable with your new bathroom.

You are just one step away from a practical, safe and beautiful bathroom to be proud of, from a family run company that you can truly trust…..

Step-free Showers Ltd. “Because we care” Please call 0333 123 0071 (Local call rate). to book your no obligation survey. Or visit us on line at www.stepfreeshowers.co.uk We look forward to seeing you soon.

26

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Step-Free Showers Ltd SPECIALISTS IN EASY ACCESS SHOWERING

Family run company you can trust

RETAIN YOUR INDEPENDENCE AND YOUR PRIVACY AT A PRICE YOU CAN AFFORD Wetrooms which will offer you completely waterproof level access. No steps or trip hazards. Easy, stylish and safe access for wheelchairs or able bodied alike.

While practicality and safety are paramount, that doesn’t mean that we have to compromise on style anymore.

CALL TODAY 0333 123 0071 (Local call rate) TO BOOK YOUR FREE NO OBLIGATION SURVEY or visit online at www.stepfreeshowers.co.uk

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

27

Record the life and final farewell of your loved one Why would you want to video a funeral?

Not everyone reacts positively to the idea of videoing a funeral. When asked about their misgivings, many say that it just doesn’t seem right. After all, shouldn’t videos be all about recording joyful occasions, not sad ones?

It’s interesting though, that when people are given a little more time to think about the benefits of having a video; they almost always change their minds. So why is this?

Perhaps it is to do with the way that we are conditioned to think. We attend funerals experiencing the pain of loss. We go through a range of difficult emotions, we are not in control, and we do not want this recorded in a movie.

But then how often do we think, after attending a funeral, of how the service has actually helped us focus on and commemorate the life of the person we have lost?

Often, the things we remember most are the eulogies - the often humorous, moving and heart-warming stories that trace the impact a life has made, and which so often form the core of the service.

It would actually be more accurate to say that, due to the emotional nature of the occasion, most of us only remember some of what was said in the eulogies. This is why it so common, when the funeral service is over, for the close friend or relative who has delivered the eulogy to be asked for a transcript.

For this, and many other reasons, Hertfordshire’s oldest family firm Austin’s has become the first funeral company in the UK to offer its own dedicated Tribute Film service.

30

A piece of living history Explaining the decision to offer the service, Claire Austin, Managing Director of her 300 year old company, highlighted the extra comfort and solace that a video could offer to bereaved families: “When you think about it, a Tribute Film is actually a piece of living history. A funeral service brings people together to commemorate, remember and celebrate a life. Having a video provides people with a record of an event that although difficult, is also very important.”

Claire Austin

“Even though a funeral service can be a painful experience for all of us in many ways, it is very common for people to speak of the positive things about it too.

“Families and friends come together again, often seeing each other after many years, and although people promise to stay in touch, the reality of our everyday lives takes over and this doesn’t always happen.

“A funeral is important, but it is a moment and it passes.

Our Tribute Films give people a piece of living history – something that will be with them forever.

“It is perhaps important to remember that healing is more likely to occur when loved ones who are no longer with us are remembered, rather than forgotten.”

This point rings especially true when we think of children and future generations in a family. Young people have a right – and so often also a real desire – to know about deceased family members they never knew. What was special about this person? What were their qualities and achievements and why were they so loved? A film can help them see the answers.

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Why would you not want to video a funeral?

Once people start to see through their initial distaste at the idea of funeral video, the many benefits start to become clear. According to Claire Austin, the question probably should not be ‘why’ but ‘why not’: “The people who have used our new Tribute Film service are just so positive about what we have given them. They truly value their videos. For us, it is easy to see why video may very soon become regarded as a normal part of funeral director’s services.”

The range of options in Austins Tribute Film service means that families will receive a highly personalised tribute to their loved one. Expanding on this point, Austin’s videographer Mark Vasey explained: “Sensitivity is the absolute key for us, which is why we will never have a front camera on people’s faces. People may just choose to have a video of the service itself, but they may choose further options which capture more about a person’s life.

“These films are not formulaic in any way. Every life tells its own story, and this is what we want to capture, relate and celebrate in pictures, words and music.”

Austin’s Tribute Services www.austins.co.uk 07792 907688

Personal, caring and independent.

The complete funeral service

“To identify the best film, the key is in the time we spend talking and finding out about the person – their work, interests, relationships and all those things that together gave their life meaning and happiness.”

Private Ch P Chapels l off Rest R

A new chance to look back, after many years

Memorial Stonemasons

Austin’s also offers a special Memorial Tributes service, a chance to create a film of someone who passed away many years previously.

24 2 4 hhour our sservice ervice

• • •

Funeral Plans

•

Own Crematorium

These films can be created with images from a funeral itself, but they can also be a mixture of photos, music, old video or cine film, highlighting special milestones, humorous events or achievements. People may want to include comments or soundbites from family or friends, favourite music, old letters, postcards and even children’s paintings and drawings.

A Memorial Tribute also offers the chance to trace back through family trees, putting names to old photos and documents to enable future generations to remember important family legacies.

www.austins.co.uk S T E V E N AG E • 01438 316623 H I T CH I N • 01462 438422 K N E B WO RT H • 01438 812365 B UN T I N G F OR D • 01763 274111

WELWYN GARDEN CITY • 01707 390018 W E LW Y N • 01438 714686 H E RT F O R D • 01992 582052 WA R E • 01920 468551

Serving the local community for ten generations austins_dove_PORT_FPC_279x186_artwork.indd 1

21/11/11 09:53:16

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