50 Plus Magazine Stockport & Trafford 56 by 50 Plus Magazine

NOVEMBER - JANUARY 2018

STOCKPORT & TRAFFORD EDITION 56

Anton Du Beke

THE STRICTLY COME DANCING STAR

River Cruising ALONG THE LOIRE

What's On

A GUIDE TO WHAT'S HAPPENING IN YOUR REGION

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4-5 8-9

CONTENTS ...

26-29

4-5 TWITTER By Angela Kelly 8-9 TRAVEL Royal River Cruising along the Loire with Croisieurope from Silver Travel Advisor 10-11

STRICTLY ANTON For the contented Anton du Beke the future is looking very rosy

Bridgeman House, 77 Bridgeman Street, Bolton BL3 6BY. Sales Enquiries : T: (01204) 238180 E: artwork@mcgrathmedia.co.uk

13-14 HOME Make more space in your home 18 GARDENING Ways to Prepare your Garden 20-24 food & drink Foods that make you feel full and Posh Sandwiches 26-29

WHAT'S ON A guide to what's happening in your region

30-31

EYE HEALTH Tips to look after your eyes

32 EXERCISE How different exercises can help fight medical conditions 36-37

DENTAL HEALTH Quality dentures mean a quality lifestyle

36-37 3

TWITTER

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genuine keenness for all things Nature and it’s impossible to imagine anyone else presenting these series even half as well. How much, though, is this now down to the fact that with age comes wisdom? We accept everything he says – the same is true of Joanna Lumley – because they have plainly not been on this earth for five minutes and have racked up some genuine knowledge and experience over the years. That is not to say that younger experts and presenters are not believable. Far from it. But, there is a kind of cachet in being older that is very underestimated by the young. People can heed what you are saying because the words are emanating from an older body. Mind you, my daughters still think I’m totally gaga and take more or less everything I say with a bucket of salt never mind a pinch. I really must practice the authority of Sir David and Joanna. They might take more notice then.

Joanna Lumley Madamme Tussauds, UK 2018

Strictly heralds the Winter – and fun!

Joanna and David are oldies but goldies

GE is a very subjective thing, isn’t it? Today, especially, when we’re very careful not to be ageist, it’s almost an untouchable subject. The person who says of another “she’s really good for her age” may be mentally adding “since she’s obviously out without her carer” if he or she is younger by a matter of decades. To someone closer in age, that person is merely “doing well”, although not to be stated to her or around her. I was thinking about the whole age thing watching Joanna Lumley in her latest Silk Road Adventure TV programme because she breaks the mould, as it were. At 73, she looks terrific – absolutely fabulous, in fact – still has those gorgeous

plummy tones that captivate everyone every time she speaks and looks slim and fashionable. So there are a few lines around her lovely face, so what! She’s a great example of ignoring the years and simply getting on with a high-profile life. In fact, there are 50 year-olds that she puts to shame. The same is true of Sir David Attenborough. The famous naturalist is an unbelievable 92 and is as energetic and enthusiastic as ever about his subject – something which communicates so well to other people that he and his captivating photographed Blue Planet series are still world-beaters. Sir David shows no signs of slowing down or finishing making his remarkable TV programmes, thank goodness. His whole career has been built on his

YOU know Autumn and Winter are coming and the days are drawing in when Strictly Come Dancing glitters its way onto the telly once more. The series has become such an iconic seasonal marker that there is almost a sigh of relief when it all kicks off once more – not the least because you know it’s going to be there until just before Christmas (sorry about using the C word without warning!) The appeal of this clever series which pairs celebrities with professional dancers (and may the Lord have mercy on their soles) is that, suddenly, becoming a proficient dancer seems eminently possible. And that is even though you have a long history of crippling dance partners and a sense of rhythm that makes you move after the beat every single time. No matter how uncomfortable and ungainly the celebrities look initially on the dance floor, you just know that there will be some improvement that will leave them actually looking like passable dancers. Some will even become spectacular dancers. While you marvel at the patience and skills of the professional dancers as they hone quite often raw material to

something quite admirable and certainly trimmer, you know that anything is possible. Give or take an Ann Widdecombe or two, of course.

Any magic tricks for opening packaging? THIS sounds like the ultimate trivia but have you ever struggled to open an Oxo cube? Apparently, you don’t have to wrestle with the clever silvery package and get brown stains on your fingers. The latest online “hack” is that you should actually squash it before opening. I know, so simple – and it works! So, can the clever clogs who came up with this smart trick now explain how to get into a packet of ham without slicing into. It’s not just a matter of saving the planet with better and more biodegradable packaging, there is also the small matter of actually accessing most food without involving (a) very bad language and (b) a pack of Elastoplasts.

Here comes the bride …. with her bank account THERE has never been a more difficult time to be a wedding guest. It only seems five minutes ago that a fairly modest gift list was circulated by the happy couple – or registered with a local store – and then guests were invited to select their choice. That was actually considered quite pushy back then as previously guests had just chosen a gift and the result was usually five casserole dishes, two sets of bathroom scales and an unusual glass object for which no-one could find any possible use. Hen and stag nights were often boozy do’s in a local pub or club when things got a bit saucy but no-one died and everyone was still on speaking terms afterwards. Now, the hens and stags and their respective entourages are more likely to go off to Amsterdam or Prague for a long weekend of fun or even a week of sunshine and alcohol. Oh, and they still expect a wedding gift. Worse, we’ve got bridezillas cancelling the stag party so that the bridegroom “doesn’t meet any other girls” and another who demanded that guests fund her expensive wedding in Thailand. She threatened to defriend those on Facebook who didn’t want to, or didn’t even reply, and seemed shocked when she reduced the contribution figure from $3,000 to $2,000 each by shifting it to Hawaii when there were still few takers.You just dread what her married life is going to be like, don’t you? BY ANGELA KELLY

Time to get in the Garden…Pull Weeds… not your back! Gardening can be a wonderful workout as we have to bend and twist, reach and pull. Gardening can be enjoyable, but it is important to stretch your muscles before reaching for your gardening tools. The back, upper legs, shoulders, and wrists are all major muscle groups affected when using your green thumb. A warm-up and cool-down period is as important in gardening as it is for any other physical activity. To make gardening as fun and enjoyable as possible, it is important to prepare your body for this type of physical activity. If you feel muscle aches and pains after your day in the garden, there are ways to alleviate the discomfort. Apply a cold pack on the area of pain for

the first 48 hours or apply a heat pack after 48 hours, and consider seeking the services of a doctor of chiropractic in your area. Doctors of chiropractic (DCs) practice a drug-free, hands-on approach to health care that includes patient examination, diagnosis and treatment. While best known for their expertise in treating the musculoskeletal system and their use of spinal manipulation, DCs have broad diagnostic skills and are also trained to recommend therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises, as well as to provide nutritional, dietary and lifestyle counselling. Consider visiting a doctor of chiropractic next time gardening activities leave you with aches and pain.

“I’m in pain” “Can Chiropractic help me?” Your initial visit will include: • A private consultation with chiropractor • X rays if necessary (normally £60) • Spinal examination, orthopaedic and neurological tests • A confidential report of our findings • An explanation of our treatments procedure if we determine Chiropractic cannot help you

OFFER PRICE £25 Expiry date 31st January 2019

For a limited period we will complete a full consultation, examination, Neuro Scan, X ray (if necessary) and a full report of findings all for

£25.00 (Normally £110.00) Offer open to new patients only. We treat these conditions • Headaches, back pain, neck pain • Prevention of migraines • Muscle spasms, joint pain • Tired all the time, tension

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms please call our clinic today for an appointment

Marple Chiropractic Clinic 8-10 Derby Way, Marple SK6 7AH 0161 449 5006 www.chiropractichealthsolutions.co.uk Stockport Chiropractic Clinic 466 Didsbury Road, Heaton Mersey, SK4 3BS 0161 432 6708

Do you like the Chase or are you a Pointless fan? Well, if you travel with Ellen Smith’s you’re normally home to watch when travelling back from a tour, rather than catching the end of Coronation Street! At Ellen Smith’s we do things a bit differently than our rivals. All our tours are ‘Door to Door’ that means that you are picked up by a taxi or small minibus right from your front door.

The same happens on the way back too!

How does it work?

Finally we have a price promise - we never discount therefore everybody on board pays the same price.

No feeders, no interchanges, no changing coaches, no changing drivers and definitely no hassle! On the morning of travel we pick you up at a pre-arranged time at your front door and take you to our waiting coach, usually at Birch Services. Within 30 minutes we normally have everyone on board and were on our way. We often have a second pickup at Stockport, but again this is timed for minimal delay.

Add to this the fact that we are fully Financially Bonded, use some excellent privately owned hotels and all visits and excursions are included in the price. We use modern coaches and mature friendly drivers.

Finally if you can find the same or similar holiday for sale cheaper in the UK we’ll refund the difference to the whole coach! Once you’ve gone the Ellen Smith way you’ll never go back!

A SELECTION OF OUR 2018 COACH TOURS Paignton Palace Hotel Monday 12th November (5 Days) £329 Tour Highlights: 3 Visit the fishing port of Brixham 3 Experience the shops at Dartington 3 Free time in the Regency Town of Sidmouth

Llandudno Marlborough Hotel Monday 12th November (5 Days) £319 Tour Highlights: 3 An excursion which takes us to the Isle of Anglesey making a stop in Beaumaris for some free time 3 A scenic Snowdonia Day Excursion & Conwy

Bournemouth Mayfair Hotel Monday 19th November (5 Days) £299 Tour Highlights: 3 Tour ~ Turkey & Tinsel 3 A visit to Shaftesbury & Salisbury 3 Excursion to the seaside resort of Weymouth

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Cornish ‘Mistletoe & Wine Rosemundy House Hotel Thursday 29th November (5 Days) £299 Tour Highlights: 3 journey to the deep harbour town of Falmouth 3 Lovely harbour town of Padstow 3 A visit to the capital of Cornwall

Discovering North Wales Royal Victoria Hotel Monday 19th November (5 Days) £299

Exploring Somerset & Wiltshire Wessex Hotel Monday 3rd December (5 Days) £249

Tour Highlights: 3 Packed Lunch Each Day 3 Free Tea & Coffee in hotel lounges throughout your stay 3 Llyn Peninsula – Abersoch & Pwllheli 3 Betws-y-Coed & Llangollen 3 Conwy & Llandudno

Tour Highlights: 3 Bed, Breakfast & Evening Meal at the hotel 3 Some Entertainment 3 A full day excursion to the beautiful city of Bath 3 An excursion to the market town of Devizes

The Beautiful Lake District Cumbria Grand Hotel Monday 26th November (5 Days) £259 Tour Highlights: 3 Door to Door 3 4 Nights Half Board 3 Dalemain House & Gardens 3 Bowness-on-Windermere 3 Ullswater 3 Kendal

Paignton Queens Hotel Monday 10th December (5 Days) £279 Tour Highlights: 3 Visit the fishing port of Brixham 3 Experience the shops at Dartington 3 Free time in the Regency Town of Sidmouth

Lytham & St Annes Lindum Hotel Monday 10th December (5 Days) £299

Cumbria & Northumbria Gilsland Hall Hotel Monday 28th January (5 Days) £259

Eastbourne £1.00 Bar The Haddon Hall Hotel Monday 25th February (5 Days) £239

Tour Highlights: 3 Liverpool’s Albert Dock 3 ‘The Gateway to The Dales’ ~ Skipton 3 Some Entertainment at The Hotels

Tour Highlights: 3 Pretty Market Town of Penrith and Keswick 3 Hexham & Corbridge

Christmas Celebration In Blackpool Doric Hotel Friday 14th December (3 Days) £159

Tour Highlights: 3 Breakfasts & Evening Meals at the Hotel 3 Some Entertainment at the hotel 3 £1.00 Bar from 8pm - 11pm each evening, includes a pint of selected draught beer, 125ml glass of house wine, single house spirits and soft drinks

Exploring Somerset & Wiltshire Wessex Hotel Monday 11th February (5 Days) £219

Tour Highlights: 3 Staying at The Doric Hotel, Blackpool 3 2 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast 3 Friday Matinee Performance of ‘Beauty & The Beast’ 3 2 Nights Live Entertainment 3 Door To Door Service

Tour Highlights: 3 Bed, Breakfast & Evening Meal at the hotel 3 Some Entertainment

Warners - Cricket St. Thomas Monday 18th February (5 Days) £319

Blackpool Doric Hotel Monday 25th February (5 Days) £209 Tour Highlights: 3 There will be One Full Day and One Half Day Excursion included. These will be included in the cost of the holiday, please ensure that you register your name with the Hotel Reception staff upon arrival at the hotel.

Tour Highlights: 3 Breakfasts & Evening Meals at the hotel 3 Live Entertainment 3 Excursion to the seaside town of Weymouth

English Riviera - Torquay Belgrave Sands Hotel Monday 7th January (5 Days) £269 Tour Highlights: 3 Fine Dining Experience at the hotel 3 Breakfasts at the hotel 3 Entertainment 3 Visit to the captivating town of Totnes 3 Free time in the Regency Town of Sidmouth

A Cornish ‘Winter Warmer’ - St Agnes Rosemundy House Hotel Friday 22nd February (5 Days) £269 Tour Highlights: 3 Breakfasts & Evening Meals at the hotel 3 Sherry Reception 3 One afternoon cream tea 3 Glass of wine on the last evening

Tour Highlights: 3 Breakfasts & Evening Meals at the hotel 3 Admission to SS Great Britain

Tour Highlights: 3 Breakfasts & Evening Meals at the hotel 3 Live Entertainment 3 Excursion to Llandudno 3 Excursion to the pretty town of Llangollen 3 A day at leisure to enjoy the facilities at the hotel

INTERESTED?

Tour Highlights: 3 Unspoilt Fishing Village of Polperro 3 Doc Martin’s Port Isaac 3 Charming Fishing Port of Padstow

‘All Inclusive’ - Lake district The Cumbria Grand Hotel Monday 11th March (5 Days) £279

North Devon Durrant House Hotel Monday 14th January (5 Days) £199

Warners - Bodelwyddan Castle Monday 21st January (5 Days) £299

Looe - Cornwall The Portbyhan Hotel Monday 4th March (5 Days) £269

Highland Party, Isles of Glencoe Isle of Glencoe Hotel Monday 25th February (5 Days) £249 Tour Highlights: 3 Welcome glass of mulled wine 3 Musical Entertainment 3 Quiz night 3 Traditional Scottish Evening with glass of wine 3 Traditional Board Games

Call our reservations office on 01706 648126 and request a copy of our 2018 brochure. You’ll be surprised at the variations of tours we operate. Visit our website at www.ellensmith.co.uk

Tour Highlights: 3 Complimentary Drinks Vouchers 3 Soup & Sandwich Lunches 3 Packed Lunches 3 Minimum of 2 nights entertainment

Paignton The Palace Hotel Monday 11th March (5 Days) £269 Tour Highlights: 3 Entertainment at the hotel 3 Breakfasts and Evening Meals at the hotel 3 Door to Door pick up service

Find us on facebook & twitter (search for ellensmithtours)

TRAVEL

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Château d’Azay-le-Rideau

Château-de-Villandry

Royal River Cruising along the Loire with

CroisiEurope

e joined the Princesse for the appropriately-named Royal River cruise, relishing eight days of indulgence as we explored some of the gorgeous chateaux with regal links along the Val de Loire, with the occasional, almost obligatory wine tasting to prolong the pampered feeling. Once at the pontoon where the Princesse was moored, we were greeted by smartly-uniformed crewman Tony (an always-smiling, always-helpful matelot from Hungary who had worked in Manchester for a few years!) and he insisted on carrying all our baggage aboard - the sort of care and attention we became used to over the next week. The sleek river cruiser can carry up to 96 passengers and has 48 outside-facing cabins on two decks, with ours featuring a small private balcony reached by sliding glass doors. We found it a great vantage point to take in the constantly-changing views if we weren’t already relaxing on

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the top sundeck; and it gave us stunning riverside vistas to wake up to, or to relax with after a long lunch. Given the fact that we were in the land of haute cuisine and most of the passengers were French, food was always going to be in focus, but few of us realised the standard for single-sitting dining with a set menu could be so high. The excellent food was such a feature that any attempt at being on a diet was a non-starter, with aromatic fresh-baked bread and croissants every morning being my immediate undoing, without even starting on the rest of the buffet or wide choice of cooked-toorder items. Complimentary wines or beer and barista-style coffee are included, as well as an open, free bar serving drinks from 10am. All drinks, except for champagne and wines from the boat’s special list, were included, and the ‘house’ choices were more than acceptable - the local 2016 Rosé de Loire was a delicious and

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refreshing accompaniment to most meals, we found! Our first dinner and a socialising nightcap over, we called it a night and didn’t feel the need to operate the retractable TV which folded down from the ceiling of our spotless cabin (except to check the weather), or even the free WiFi, but watched the stars for a while as Captain Sandro Amand started the engines, cast off and started the first leg of our cruise by heading downriver to the port of Saint-Nazaire. To wake up and find we were moored in the dock basin within yards of the enormous concrete U-boat pens built by the Germans was an unexpected reward, followed by a trip inside the pens to the Escal’Atlantic museum, which explores the historic ocean liner experience, with the accent on the Blue Riband-earning Normandie, built in Saint-Nazaire in the 1930s and at one time the largest and fastest ship afloat.

The next day, the Princess returned to Nantes, where local tourism guide Bernat Comas took us on a short tram ride to show us the heart of the old town, where we explored secret passages off tight cobbled streets, leading to hidden courtyards and historic multi-storey apartments built for the rich traders and merchants who made their fortunes when the city was one of the greatest ports in France. We had spotted the elephant on our first evening on board, before we sailed to Saint-Nazaire but didn’t really appreciate its sheer size — and then we had the chance to get up close and personal on a guided excursion when we returned to Nantes to begin our adventures upstream. And Le Grand Éléphant is the tour de force, carrying 50 people the height of a four-storey house on a slow, majestic tour of the site, giving great views of Nantes and another star attraction, the towering Carrousel des Mondes Marins. Next day was a coach trip on the Muscadet Wine Route, taking in a refuelling stop at historic Château Cassemichère, where owner Philippe Ganichaud introduced us to some of his award-winning wines, including a cheeky little fizz, La Muse du Chai, which put a smile on my face, for a start. Monday was our first major château, the home of the Dukes of Brissac, still in private ownership and a taste of the châteaux grandeurs to come with its

imposing facade and showpiece rooms. Tuesday was a full day of regal splendour, taking our time to visit three breathtaking châteaux, starting with the Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, a French national monument built on a small island in the middle of the Indre River and lauded as one of the most beautiful Renaissance buildings in the whole of the Val de Loire, which rejoices in its UNESCO World Heritage status. On to the Château de Villandry, famous for its manicured and quite magnificent ornamental and kitchen gardens, where we had a feast for the eyes as well as a very tasty lunch of local produce including, of course, excellent local Chinon wine, which pleased our table no end. Last on the list was arguably the prettiest stately home of all, the Château d’Ussé, sounding even more pretty in its French description as Château de la Belle au Bois Dormant — the Castle of the Sleeping Beauty. Rebuilt in the 15th and 16th centuries, this turreted gem is said to have fired the imagination of Charles Perrault, who wrote the famous fairytale, and it’s not hard to see why when you marvel at the architecture and interiors and climb the stairs to one of the picturesque towers. Back on the river, dinner was an impressive Princesse buffet, cutting the hard-working staff a bit of slack (but not much!) before they presented an enthusiastic, fun cabaret in the lounge to show that they were even more hard-working and versatile than most passengers thought. Our final excursion was from the quayside in Chalonnes along the Angevine Nantes Elephant Corniche, with its picturesque villages and many viewing points along the river. There’s nothing rustic about the HQ of the Fournier Longchamps family domaine at Rochefort sur Loire, for the proudly biodynamique winery itself is only seven years old… although the 30 hectare ‘terrroir’ of vineyards with five appellations

has existed since the 12th century, and we were lucky enough to sample three signature wines. Back on board, we cruised along in stately fashion, with the engine barely audible and the side paddle wheels splashing soothingly as the sun shone fitfully and we sipped a drink and waved at locals along the banks — the sleek white Loire Princesse is the only cruiser of any size on the river and still creates a stir as she glides past. Taking stock of the past few days underlined the pleasure of river cruising, with the CroisiEurope approach echoing that of the best Loire winemakers, insisting on putting quality above quantity, with care and attention to detail ensuring that guests enjoy an almost individual experience and never get lost or feel neglected. It was very much in focus on our last full day on the Loire, sitting back on the sundeck with a gala dinner in prospect after cocktails before sunset. Dress code over a week’s voyage is fairly relaxed and casual, as expected, but the final night is as good a reason as any to put on the glad rags a bit. Scrubbed up, we duly enjoyed a spot of fizz in the bar lounge before the Loire Princesse signed off a magical week afloat with a formal farewell from captain and crew and a special blend of saucery from chef Sebastien Boss and his talented team in the kitchen. They served up another splendid tour de force, accompanied by specially-chosen wines. It also happened to be our Golden Anniversary — and we couldn’t have wished for better.

CELEBRITY interview

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Strictly

ANTON

NTON du Beke only made a brief appearance in Strictly Come Dancing this year but he was in a philosophical mood, "They always try to make the production better and better and the professional dancers always try to do something different and exciting.” Talking to Anton, who has been in the extremely popular BBC One show since it began in 2004, is just as you would expect from what you see of him on TV. He’s pleasant, chatty, genuine and completely charming. He is also multi-talented. Apart from being very funny, he has a pleasant singing voice and brought out an album of songs last Christmas - and, of course, he’s quite handy when it comes to dancing as well. Born and brought up in Kent as Anthony Paul Beke, he was a sporty youngster who excelled at boxing, played county football and enjoyed golf.

But when, at 14, he was sent to a local dance class to meet his sister one evening, he found a new interest. The dance classes soon tempted him in and, before long, he realised that this was the direction in which he wanted his life to go. He left school at 16 and worked in a number of day-jobs to fund his dance training, taking dance lessons at night. At 17 he was specialising in ballroom dancing and already competing as an amateur. His favourite dance was, and still is, the foxtrot – the classy, stylish romantic dance steeped in the golden era of Hollywood and his idol Fred Astaire. In 1997, Anton met dancer Erin Boag and their magical chemistry on the dancefloor soon became apparent. They began competing professionally and won many national and international awards. As fate would have it, they also came to the attention of the BBC producers planning

a new programme called Strictly Come Dancing. Soon, the two dancers became an established part of what turned into one of the most popular shows on TV. Although Erin left Strictly after Series 10 (the latest is Series 16) it’s a tribute to both their skills and wonderful partnership that they tour successfully around the country with their own show. Over the years, Anton has proved to be a patient partner and talented teacher with many of the Strictly celebrities. Ask him who has been his favourite celebrity partner and he is far too diplomatic to highlight just one. But viewers well remember him dancing with politician Ann Widdecombe who was not the most, ahem, natural dancer. Together, however, they provided some remarkably entertaining television and each remains very complimentary about the other.

He also partnered opera singer Lesley Garrett, Esther Rantzen, Gillian Taylforth, Laila Rouass, Nancy Dell’Olio, Jerry Hall, Kate Garraway, Judy Murray and BBC Proms’ queen Katie Derham with whom he reached the final. Anton’s own talents are seldom eclipsed by his celebrity partners but he always seems to bring out the best in them. “That’s what I try for,” he explained. “I just want people to be the best they can and to have a lovely time. It would upset me if they weren’t happy or enjoying themselves.” Anton keeps himself very fit – “just by eating the right kind of things and looking after myself generally”. At 52, he doesn’t do anything special and thinks he has been “lucky” to avoid major injuries over the years. “If something hurts, I don’t do it any more,” he insisted with a great laugh. For relaxation, he still plays golf – “and I quite like going out on my own. I love that feeling of space and having some time to myself.” His life is certainly more hectic at home these days. Early last year, he married Hannah Summers and the couple now have one year-old twins, George and Henrietta. It’s plain that Anton is a beautifully besotted Dad. “I love being with them,” he stated. “I could look at them for hours, just watching what they’re doing.” For all his easygoing charm, though, Anton’s current schedule is a hectic one. The Saturday after we spoke he was taking part in the first show of the new Strictly series – the prelude to tough rehearsals and shows in an absorbing schedule until midDecember’s final. “It’s not like getting up and going to a job you hate, though,” he said. “I still love doing Strictly.” He also has a new book out in October. He has already written two books: Anton’s Dance Class, a step-by-step guide to ballroom and Latin dances, and B is for Ballroom, focussing on his favourite style of dance. The new book is rather different. It’s fiction, entitled One Enchanted Evening and is set in London’s Buckingham Hotel early in the first half of the 20th century. “This is a time that appeals to me a lot,”

added Anton. “I love the style, the clothes, the music - everything about it.” The thrust of the book is intrigue and romance and Anton has used characters he has met during his career along with stories from dance instructors and “lots of my favourite things.” Also on the horizon is his next tour with Erin, called Dance Those Magical Musicals, which kicks off in Northampton in January and takes in 29 venues right across the UK and Ireland. As you might expect now from Anton and Erin, it’s a production of stunning costumes, glorious music and breathtaking choreography.

“We have the orchestra on stage with us and there’s a wonderful feeling of timeless theatre,” added Anton. The music is from iconic shows from Mary Poppins and Top Hat to Hairspray and Jersey Boys and Lance Ellington – a favourite Strictly singer – is also performing. So, for the contented Anton du Beke, the future is looking very rosy.

* For more information about Anton and Erin’s new tour go to www.antonanderinlive.co.uk or the national ticket hotline 0844 847 2319. One Enchanted evening is published by Zaffre in hardback and ebook at £18.99.

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HOME & garden

MAKE MORE SPACE IN YOUR

home If there is one constant complaint about our homes it’s that we never seem to have enough space.

owever big or small your property and if you have all the family at home or it is just simply you and a partner or just you, we could always do with more space – for living and storage. First of all, it’s worth deciding if you want space in a particular area – like an extra bedroom or another downstairs room. These are big projects so the whole subject of making more space is really about making major or minor adjustments. For the major projects, you will probably need a realistic budget and recommended expert help. If you don’t know any local builders well enough then consult the Federation of Master Builders at http://www.fmb.org.uk or the National Federation of Builders at http:// www.builders.org.uk

A CONSERVATORY or ORANGERIE can offer an extra room downstairs that will really transform a property, bringing in plenty of light as well as that muchneeded space. If you have extra rooms you could create a UTILITY ROOM with direct access from outside – and somewhere to put those muddy boots or store bicycles. Convert your GARAGE, if it is just a dumping ground for all kinds of unused household items. Not everyone uses their garage for their car and it is wasted space if you fail to do something practical with it. You can either make it a separate room – a dining room or workroom, for example – or you might want to extend your KITCHEN to offer extra space. Whether you do this or not, your kitchen is often the heart of the home and a place where people gravitate to do all kinds of activities. So making this

50 plus magazine

bigger could benefit the whole house, especially if you open it up by knocking down a wall into an adjacent dining room to make it open-plan. Check with a good builder before you start knocking down walls, however. Although planning permission is not usually needed for removing or altering internal walls - unless your home is listed - you must still adhere to building regulations to ensure that any supporting structures are up to the job. So you will need to ask your local building control department or an independent building control inspector to issue a completion certificate on this kind of work. On the simplest level in your kitchen, why not put your microwave on a glass shelf above your units to free up space? Hang sharp knives inside a high cabinet to create more drawer space and keep them out of children’s way and store wooden spoons and other utensils bouquet-style in a handsome pitcher or canister. Converting your LOFT offers another area probably currently just used for storage as an extra living space. Lofts can make excellent extra bedrooms and there may still be room there for an eaves’ bathroom. For smaller projects, create space start with one simple trick: DECLUTTERING.You will be amazed at the amount of possessions and household items you have accumulated. We all know that the majority will never be of use again so get rid of them. Sell anything decent on ebay or give items away to local charities. Emmaus and the British Heart Foundation are two charities that can collect furniture items from your home. And you will be supporting worthwhile causes at the same time. To maximise space in the HALLWAY, don’t let it become a dumping ground for coats, shoes and bags. Choose a sleek unit and use every part of it. By adding a bench with a lift-up lid you will quickly add to your storage. And if you re-decorate with horizontal stripes in a crisp white and fresh Spring shades you’ll make the most of available space and light. It will feel bigger!

Pile Height (mm)

Grass

RRP (per sqm) Residential Education & Safe Paly

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Golf Grass (Putt only)

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£25.00

Tennis

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Rental Grass

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Application

Pets

Landscaping

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Service At AsInstallation Good As Grass, we provide from our 3 installation aChoose complete service from options todesign achieveto a professional installation.finish. Sports

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* Represents products which we stock on a regular basis. All other products are subject to availability or a 3 week lead time. Full rolls of 100sqm (4m x 25m) o er a 15% discount o RRP pricings.

Product

5kg Adhesive Tub Glue Stick Seaming Tape Underlay Underlay

Description

Price

Covers 10 linear metres

£22.50

Covers 3 linear metres

£7.50 (per stick)

Minimum 10 metres

£1.00 (per metre)

5mm

£4.50 (per sqm)

10mm

£7.50 (per sqm)

25mm Shockpad – 1.5sqm Sheet

Covers 1.4m Critical Fall Height

£10.50 (per sheet)

50mm Shockpad – 1.5sqm Sheet

Covers 2.8m Critical Fall Height

£20.00 (per sheet)

2.25m x 100m roll

£95.00

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The area under the STAIRCASE can just be an awkward corner. But this is a good place to put up extra fitted shelves and pull-out Installation Service drawers for additional storage. If the area is quite deep, it may Choose from our 3 installation options make an OFFICE space for you and a place to put a desk and your to achieve a professional finish. computer. Just add a little light. • No more mowing In fact, LIGHT plays an important part in making areas at home seem bigger. So it’s worth reviewing all your domestic lighting this • No more weeding if you can’t shed some light into normally dark Option 1: Total solution premium sub base Option 2: Winter Surface and onlyseeing to client • Low maintenance corners of your living room or hallway. We all know you can make construction prepared base • All weather a room much cosier by dimming the lights but, conversely, you can Involving excavation and muck away, sub base This surface only option gives you the make it seem bigger and more airy by using brighter lights. • Child and and petstabilisation, friendly construction fixed edging in either flexibility to carry out the sub base The same is true of DOORS. It’s surprising the difference swapping concrete tanalised timber, two type aggregate backfill preparation and leave the specialist job • Soft andordurable doors for sliding doors or bi-folding doors can make. Rooms and compaction, installation of Geotextile membrane of fitting andwooden seaming the synthetic seem just as cosy but the amount of light coming in is far greater – • Professional fitters and the fitting or your chosen synthetic surface. surface to the experts. and it looks much more modern. • 10 yrs guarantee Consider whether you need a bigger BATHROOM and look at • We can also undertake additional work the balance of the house. If you have a four bedroomed house for two of you and your bathroom is quite small, especially if it doesn’t have such as fencing, paving, decking, shrub a separate shower, it might be worth looking at converting a larger and tree stump removal. bedroom into a bathroom or even adding a dedicated shower-room. Option 1: Total solution premium sub base Option 2: Surface only to client construction prepared base Adding an EN SUITE to a master bedroom not only gives you Involving excavation and muck away, sub base This surface only option gives you the extra space and facilities but adds value to your home. If you have an construction and stabilisation, fi xed edging in either fl exibility to carry out the sub base As Good As Grass products are manufactured at the largest concrete or tanalised timber, two type aggregate backfill preparation and leave the specialist job awkward set of rooms, this can be an excellent way of re-purposing custom built artificial grass facility in Europe, enabling us to and compaction, installation of Geotextile membrane of fitting and seaming the synthetic and the fittingground or your chosen synthetic surface. to the experts. them. produce breaking products in asurface specialist environment. If you’re thinking of investing in a new BED, go for one with Our products conform to European quality norms, meaning under-bed storage drawers. This a great place for bedding and big they are safe for the environment, people and animals. blankets. If you have a BAY WINDOW in the living room, it’s definitely worth considering having a curved seat made with additional storage. And get more storage in your garden from a SHED or SUMMER-HOUSE. As well as being ideal for bikes, you can use Email: info@asgoodasgrass.co.uk it for all kinds of other secure storage – and that will free up your Visit our website: home for what it’s really meant for: providing space for humans and pets.

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HOME

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MARK WILSON

BESPOKE FURNITURE

s bespoke furniture makers, Mark Wilson Furniture design, manufacture and install exquisite bespoke handcrafted furniture for kitchens, bedrooms, home offices, home cinema, bars and living areas made from the finest materials. All our designs are entirely unique and create original solutions. We meet your individual needs complimenting your chosen lifestyle and there is no budget that cannot be met. All our furniture is handmade in our workshop. We offer a tailored design and see all our projects as a concept through to final completion. For large scale projects, where multiple trades are required, our in-house project team provide a complete service to ensure you only have to deal with our company and the work is delivered on time to your complete satisfaction . Mark Wilson has 20 years' experience of designing, manufacturing and installing bespoke furniture. An investment in a fitted kitchen should suit and compliment your family and lifestyle. Whether you prefer the traditional country style kitchen or something unique, contemporary and stylish, Mark Wilson Furniture will meet your exact requirements and ensure it

becomes integral to your living. Through our expertise we can create your kitchen in any material using a variety of finishes. We provide a complete service with our experience in design and manufacturing skills at the forefront. Our whole approach is to work with you to bring to life the initial design providing advice on work surfaces, colour & finish and appliances. We use our own team and see the installation as an integral part of the process when buying bespoke furniture. We understand your bedroom is a very personal space and design you bedroom furniture to your exact specifications. Our bespoke storage solutions ensure clutter is kept to a minimum with a place for everything. We use a wide range of finishes which will compliment any interior dĂŠcor and furnishings. No space is too awkward as we can design any bespoke furniture to suit any area. A bar could compliment a home cinema as an area to entertain, becoming the focal point of a room. From bespoke furniture to house wine to recreating the look of your favourite bar/nightclub the possibilities are endless. We are able to design and build any size of bar. Furniture can be upholstered in a fabric of your choice to achieve your desired look.

Mark Wilson Furniture creates unique bespoke furniture for the home which is both stylish and innovative. We know it is important to take into account your lifestyle and our bespoke furniture concepts provide a solution to enhance the way you live. We design furniture from an initial concept and whether you chose to House a TV's and sound system, books & magazines, DVD's , to a bespoke coffee table we can create any piece of bespoke furniture in a material of your choice. We specialise in bringing the cinema experience into your own home providing a truly exhilarating addition to your leisure time. Whether you want furniture to house an existing system or a complete home cinema installation we can provide an entirely unique solution for you. Working alongside Midas Audio Visual for the past five years, we are able to deliver a complete service, from design to final installation. From a simple room system to whole house integration with dedicated cinema rooms, lighting, blind and I pad control; Midas Audio Visual has many years of experience within the industry.

WORKTOP & S O L I D S U R FA C E EXPERTS With over 20 years’ experience our bespoke service offers no limits to colour, texture, effect, size or shape. Giving you the scope to achieve a flawless, stylish and durable finish for every surface in the home.

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GARDEN

50 plus magazine

Ways to Prepare your Garden

for Autumn

isted among the recommended tasks are doing a big tidy, and planting spring bulbs in preparation for next year. Gardeners should also remember to clear up fallen leaves, pack away garden furniture and protect pots and plants. As soon as the nice weather disappears, and the chilly days and dark evenings set in, people start to neglect their gardens. Autumn is one of the most important times of the year for gardening – it’s the time to get the garden tidied up ready for the chilly months and to do all those little jobs to make sure plants and garden features remain in good condition. As it gets colder it’s too easy to put the jobs off – but it really is worth investing the time so when Spring finally puts in an appearance, you’re ready to enjoy your outside space. NET THE POND: If you’re fortunate enough to have a pond, cover it with a net. Forget and you’ll be fishing out soggy plants all winter. CUT THE LAWN: Remember – your lawn will need a really good cut before the cold and

wet weather sets in. If you let the grass get too long, it will be near impossible to cut it over the winter. CLEAN AND CLEAR: Just as you would spring clean your house, don’t forget to autumn clean your garden. Cut back plants and clear out the shed and greenhouse before you store everything for winter. It is also a good time to pressure wash the patio or scrub down the decking. This will stop excessive dirt and grime build up occurring over the wet winter months. DON’T LET LEAVES BUILD UP: Leaves are public enemy number one so as they start to fall from the trees, don’t let them build up. If you do, they’ll soon turn to mulch and become slippery and dangerous. PLANT SPRING BULBS: If you like the sight of daffodils and tulips in the spring then remember to plant them in September/ October. PROTECT YOUR POTS Store both your empty and in-use pots correctly over the winter months.Insulate

with either hay, cardboard or bubble wrap and make sure you raise all in-use pots off the ground to prevent them from getting waterlogged during rainy weather. PROTECT YOUR PLANTS: The first frost of the year can arrive without any warning and can kill your favourite foliage. If you have any plants you know are susceptible to cold weather, get them in the greenhouse or in your conservatory. CLEAR AWAY GARDEN ITEMS: Don’t forget to pack away any garden items that may get damaged by the cold weather. If your furniture or BBQ won’t fit in the shed, make sure they’re covered up properly. DON’T FORGET THE WILDLIFE: Don’t forget about any wildlife that visits your garden. Make sure you leave out seeds for the birds and any suitable leftovers.matter – inspect these after dark and kill the molluscs by dropping them into a bucket of salty water. You could also try using copper rings around the base of susceptible leftovers.

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FOOD & DRINK

50 plus magazine

FOODS THAT MAKE YOU FEEL FULL

hanges in environment and primitive impulses make our desire to overindulge even stronger – especially when our body wants to prepare for the winter ahead. It doesn’t help either when each festive feast becomes another excuse to overeat, simply to satisfy our uncontrollable appetite. This winter, don’t admit defeat. Top Nutrition Specialist Marina Rösser from leading fitness app company Freeletics (www.freeletics.com), shares her top five foods which can help you to feel fuller for longer: FATTY FISH: Ever finished a meal and still felt hungry? If you don’t want to go raiding the chocolate drawer straight after every meal, start eating more fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines. Not only do these deliver the Vitamin D that you are lacking in winter due to a lack of sunshine, but they are also rich in omega 3 fatty acids, which make you feel fuller for longer and are said to work with the hormones in your body that tell you to stop eating. SWEET POTATO: Sweet potatoes contain almost double the filling fibre than ordinary white potatoes. The best thing is that in the winter, the opportunities to enjoy sweet potato are endless – bake them as fries in the oven, or add them to your colourful spicy curry to strengthen your immune system and warm you up after an outdoor training session. Whichever method you choose, you’re sure to be stuffed.

December

NUT BUTTER: Comfort food is usually creamy. But creamy food is usually not healthy. Rather than adding a huge dollop of heavy cream to your sauce or dressing, a tablespoon of creamy nut butter should do the trick. Nut butters (peanut, cashew, almond) may be high in fat, but they are also extremely filling and healthy. When eaten in moderation, they can even help you control your weight. For more recipes and healthy food swap ideas, check out the Freeletics Nutrition app, which is packed full of meal plans and nutritional advice to help you follow a healthy clean eating regime. SPROUTED GRAINS: There is growing research around the health benefits of sprouted grains. So far, the method of sprouting is said to not only make these grains (quinoa, spelt, whole wheat) easier to digest, but also increases their essential nutrients such as Vitamin C, soluble fibre and essential amino acids. The increased fibre and longer digestion time make you feel fuller for longer on fewer calories. So instead of grabbing a loaf of white bread next time you’re craving some carbs, try baking your own using ground sprouted quinoa or sprouted spelt flour. SHIRATAKI NOODLES: Not only are shirataki noodles extremely low in calories and carbs, they are also super healthy and filling. Made from glucomannan, a fibre that comes from the root of the konjac plant that grows in Japan, this low-carb noodle alternative is 97% water. With just 20 calories per serving, it’s a great low-calorie choice for a warming, spicy asian dish and since the noodles move through the digestive system slowly, they leave you feeling fuller for longer and less likely to go hunting for another snack soon after.

posh sandwiches

by Reubens to banh mi

umour has it that the sandwich was less the invention of the 4th Earl of Sandwich, but more of an accidental brainwave, when he became peckish during a game of cards and asked for some meat to be placed between a couple of slices of bread. The magic that happened became the sandwich. The sandwich is so many things to so many people: breakfast, elevenses, packed lunch al desko… A portable, hand-held lunch on the go, a sit-down dinner, end of dinner wiper-upper of all the good stuff left over on your plate after a meal; latenight. There aren’t many ingredients that can’t be worked into a sandwich to delicious effect. Start by making the piccalilli. In a medium pan, add the cider vinegar, garlic, chilli, ginger, turmeric, salt and sugar. Bring to the boil, then simmer for 5 minutes. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 2 minutes more. Mix the mustard and flour in a small heatproof bowl with 3 tablespoons of the hot brine from the pan. Stir to form a smooth paste, then add a further 5 tablespoons of cooking liquid and mix well. Stir the mustard mixture into the brine pan, then cook on a high heat for 2 minutes, or until thickened and glossy. Remove from the heat, then stir in the pickled onions, turnip, carrot and cucumber, and allow to cool completely, about 2–3 hours (or overnight if possible). Ladle into a couple of sealable and sterilized glass jars, or store in a lidded plastic container in the fridge for up to two weeks. (Be warned – the turmeric may dye your chosen container yellow...) Piccalilli is a British version of an Indian pickle. The crunchy vegetable pickle, lightly spiced in sweet and salty brine, has a punchy flavour that will cut through the richness of any meat or cheese. When you’re ready to assemble your sandwich, lay four slices of crusty bread on a board, spread generously with butter, and then layer over the ham and cheese. Geneously spoon some of your home-made piccalilli over the ham and cheese then pop the remaining slices of bread on top. Serve with crunchy celery sticks, cherry tomatoes and an apple on the side. The perfect lunchtime snack for a walk in the British countryside.

PICCALILLI WITH HAM & CHEESE

PLOUGHMAN’S Serves 4 and takes 20 minutes plus 2 hours cooling For the piccalilli 350ml (12fl oz) cider vinegar 3 garlic cloves, finely sliced 1 small red chilli, finely sliced 1.5-cm (1/2-in) piece ginger, peeled and cut into matchsticks 2 tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp salt 5 tbsp granulated sugar 1/2 small cauliflower (about 150g/51/2oz), broken into small florets 11/2 tsp English mustard 1 tbsp plain (all-purpose) flour

10 small silverskin pickled onions 1 turnip, cut into 1-cm (3/8-in) cubes 1/2 carrot, cut into 1-cm (3/8-in) cubes 1/3 cucumber, halved lengthways, deseeded and roughly diced Sandwich 8 slices crusty wholemeal bread butter, for spreading 200g (7oz) thick-cut ham 150g (5.oz) mature Cheddar cheese, sliced celery sticks, cherry tomatoes and apples, to serve

FOOD & DRINK

50 plus magazine

Bury Market has a well deserved reputation for friendly service, fantastic produce and great value. As one of our customers recently said ‘I love Bury Market because the atmosphere is lovely, it’s everything you need in one place, it’s a gorgeous traditional market, full of fun, food, and luxuries!’

SWEET & SOUR LAMB

KOFTA PITTA These fragrant lamb patties work brilliantly as part of a modern mezze meal.The sweet and sour salad cuts through the richness of the lamb, making these pittas totally moreish. Serves 4 and takes 30 minutes 500g (1lb 2oz) lamb mince 2 tsp ground cinnamon 2 tsp cumin

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2 tsp ground coriander

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: BuryMarket

2 tsp paprika bunch coriander (cilantro), finely chopped 1 tbsp vegetable oil, for greasing For the salad 1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1 red chilli 1 large carrot, grated juice 1/2 lemon 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses salt and black pepper 4 tbsp good-quality mayonnaise 2 tbsp harissa 8 mini pittas

ut the lamb mince into a large bowl, add the spices, most of the mint and most of the coriander, reserving about 1 tablespoon of each for the salad. Massage together with your hands for 2 minutes; this will combine the ingredients and help the patties stay together as they cook. Divide the lamb mixture into eight equal portions. Using damp hands, shape the meat into rugby ballshaped patties. Grease a baking sheet with a little oil and lay the patties on top. Set aside. To make the salad, mix the onion, chilli and carrot with the lemon juice and pomegranate molasses. Gently stir in the reserved herbs and some seasoning. In a small bowl, mix the mayo with the harissa and set aside. Heat the grill to high. Cook the patties for 8 minutes, turning frequently, until golden and cooked through. To serve, split the pittas and heat under the hot grill. When warmed, spread with the harissa mayo, sit a kofta inside and top with salad.

GREEN GODDESS SAUCE WITH

HALLOUMI Green goddess sauce, given a creamy addition with ripe avocado, complements the salty slightly sharp halloumi wonderfully. Serves 4 and takes 20 minutes For the green goddess sauce 1 ripe avocado, stoned and peeled juice 1/2 lemon 2 tbsp Greek yogurt 1 mild green chilli, roughly chopped 1/2 garlic clove, crushed handful coriander (cilantro) salt and black pepper 250g (9oz) block halloumi cheese 8 baby plum tomatoes drizzle olive oil 8 slices sourdough bread

tart by making the green goddess sauce. Roughly chop the avocado and put it into the bowl of a food processor with the lemon juice, yogurt, chilli and garlic. Roughly chop most of the coriander and add it to the bowl, reserving a few leaves. Season and pulse until almost smooth. Cover and set aside. Heat a griddle pan to high. Cut the halloumi into eight slices and cook for 5 minutes, turning halfway through until charred and soft. Add the tomatoes to the pan. Griddle the tomatoes for 2â&#x20AC;&#x201C;3 minutes

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you just want them to begin to soften and the skins to pop. Remove, halve the tomatoes and season with a little salt and a drizzle of oil. Griddle the bread on both sides until warm and a lightly toasted. Spread four slices with green goddess sauce, then lay a couple of slices of halloumi and some tomato halves on top. Finish with a sprinkle of the reserved coriander leaves and sandwich with the remaining bread. Green goddess sauce, given a creamy addition with ripe avocado, complements the salty, slightly sharp halloumi wonderfully.

FOOD & DRINK

50 plus magazine

CHOCOLATE-CHIP COOKIES &

ICECREAM How to make chewy chocolate chip cookies even better: sandwich them together with ice cream. Go uberchocolatey and use good-quality chocolate ice cream or go with a classic vanilla. Serves 8 Takes 25 minutes plus chilling and cooling. 125g (41/2oz) unsalted butter 100g (31/2oz) caster (superfine) sugar 150g (51/2oz) soft light brown sugar 1 large egg 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 tsp salt 225g (8oz) plain (all-purpose) flour 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda 100g (31/2oz) dark chocolate chips 50g (13/4oz) milk chocolate chips good-quality ice cream

reheat the oven to 1800C/3500F/ gas 4. Line two baking sheets with parchment and set aside. Melt the butter in a small pan or in the microwave, then transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add both types of sugar, the egg, vanilla and salt, and stir until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. Tip in the flour and bicarbonate of soda, gently folding into the wet in gredients and being careful not to overmix, then stir in the chocolate chips. Use a couple of dessertspoons to scoop the mixture onto the prepared trays; you should get 16 cookies. Leave plenty of

room for the cookies to spread during cooking. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the edges are light golden. Leave to cool and set on the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely. Sandwich two cookies together with a scoop of your favourite ice cream. Eat immediately.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT BROADSTONE MILL SHOPPING OUTLET Homeware, Gifts, Bags & Accessories. There is also, Brand Interiors, The Works, a hair and beauty salon, coffee shop, tea room, and so much more.

There is a real buzz in the air within Broadstone Mill in Reddish right now, such a lot going on with many new brands and a big move round inside the store too. This huge red brick mill was built between 1904 and 1907. In its heyday it was the largest and most modern mill in Europe and unbelievably it is now only half its original size! Broadstone Mill Shopping Outlet opened in 2001, and after major redevelopment is now a key shopping destination offering more than 120 retailers under one roof. Over the years the building has seen many changes, and in recent years these have all been very positive. Now a large department style outlet store with Ladieswear, Menswear, Shoes,

The Shoe Department on the ground floor is now bigger and better than ever before. It has recently expanded considerably and along with popular brands such as Rieker, Earth Spirit, Lunar & Hotter Shoes there are hundreds of new styles. One of the favourite additions are the childrens shoes including brands such as Levis and Lunar Kids. So, if you’re thinking about shoe

shopping in Stockport, or surrounding areas, this should be your first choice. Regatta Outdoors is now a ‘mini department’ within the new look Menswear Department. This well-known brand has increased its offering and has ladies and mens clothing, accessories and outerwear with childrens and shoes by Regatta now in store too. There’s free parking and everything under one roof, you can browse at your leisure too, it’s a really nice way to spend some time. Shop in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere where helpful staff are on hand to give advice or help. There’s definitely something for everyone and every occasion, with savings of up to 75% off the RRP!

www.broadstonemillshoppingoutlet.co.uk

LEISURE

50 plus magazine

2nd December 2018 St George's Church Christmas Tree Festival

WHAT'S ON

The event will feature around 70 decorated and illuminated trees representing themes chosen by their sponsors. Father Christmas will be there on Saturday from 10am to 12pm, and then again from 1:30pm to 4pm. 28 Buxton Road, Stockport, SK2 6NU 10am to 6pm, Adult £2 - children under 16 free

A Guide to what's happening in your region ...

Christmas will soon be here, so don’t miss out on fabulous and magical events across the borough in the run up to the big day. 1st – 31st December 2018 Reindeer Christmas Can you find them on this reindeer trail around the Museum? Pick up one of our craft bags and find everything you need to make something linked to reindeer. Trail is free (£1 activity craft bag) 10am - 5pm Staircase House, 30/31 Market Place, Stockport, SK1 1ES

1st DECEMBER 2018 – 18th January 2019 Aladdin Take a magical carpet ride to the North West’s home of sensational pantomime entertainment for Aladdin starring Ted Robbins, as Widow Twanky, and Brian Capron, star of Coronation Street. For tickets visit www.stockportplaza.co.uk 7.30pm The Plaza, Mersey Square, Stockport, SK1 1SP

Sunday 2nd December 2018 Light up Bramhall Come and Join us for: l

Christmas markets lantern parade l Local acts l Entertainment l A

The christmas markets start at 11am. There will be entertainment throughout the day with the light event happening at 2pm.

Bramhall Village Bramhall Lane South, Bramhall SK7 1AL 11am - 5pm

4th - 23rd December 2018 Merseyway Winter Snow Garden The event will feature around 70 decorated and illuminated trees representing themes chosen by their sponsors. Father Christmas will be there on Saturday from 10am to 12pm, and then again from 1:30pm to 4pm.

Merseyway Shopping Centre, SK1 1PD Open 11am to 4pm from Monday to Saturday and 11am to 3pm on Sundays

Sunday 10th December 2018 Vintage Village Christmas Special Pick up some vintage Christmas delights at the Vintage Village Christmas special. Quality authentic vintage clothing and accessories – vintage jewellery, curios and collectables, and unexpected delights you never knew you wanted! Make sure to take up the free parking offer in the town centre and district centres. Market Place, Stockport, SK1 1ES 10am - 4pm

5th and 6th December 2018 Sleeping Beauty The Rock and Roll Years 7.30pm - 10pm A pantomime like no other! Written by Colin Ravey and Francis Goodhand, 'Sleeping Beauty The Rock and Roll Years' is returning for our 30th anniversary. 'Sleeping Beauty The Rock and Roll Years' was written especially for NK Theatre Arts and was the very first Christmas show performed by the company at the Forum Theatre back in 2003. An original soundtrack with all of the characters you will know and love from the story...but some you may not remember from the Disney film. NK's Christmas show for 2018 performed by the members of NK Theatre Arts will finish off our 30th anniversary celebrations, so don't miss this.

The Forum Theatre, Romiley SK6 4EA Please call 0161 430 6570 or the 24 hour box office on 0333 666 3366

Stockport NHS Foundation Trust Our Volunteers help improve the Patient Experience Our aim is to support and compliment the services provided by the trust staff, ultimately improving the experience of patients and visitors. Over 350 volunteers currently help at the hospital. They are clearly visible in the smart uniform and are always willing to help. Volunteering is a rewarding and uplifting experience and gives you the opportunity to be involved at your local hospital and give your time to help other people Volunteer roles available at the Hospital l Retail

Assistants – Helping in Shops or cafes Guides – To accompany patients and visitors to their destinations l Ward Helper – Assist with non-clinical duties on ward areas l Mealtime Helper – Assist patients at mealtimes l Patient experience survey – To meet with patients and record details of their experience. l Hospital

Anyone over the age of 16 can apply to help at the hospital. You will need to commit to three hours per week for a minimum of 16 weeks. We will offer an appointment to meet with the Voluntary Service Manager to discuss the most suitable role for you. The meetings usually last approximately 20 minutes. You will be offered an appointment when we received a completed application form. As part of the recruitment process you will be asked to attend a health screening interview to ensure appropriate vaccinations are up to date and that you are generally fit and well for the role you have chosen.

Saturday 9th December 2018 Christmas Makers Market Step back in time to Christmas days gone by as you wander through the old Market Place. Browse the Vintage Village, gather up some gorgeous gifts at the Victorian Christmas Market and the Makers Christmas Market where roasting chestnuts on an open fire are set to tickle your Christmas taste buds.

Visit www.themakersmarket.co.uk 10am – 6pm Market Place, Stockport, SK1 1ES

We take care to offer you the most suitable role which means that you will have a great experience. Some of our volunteers have been with us for over 25 years! We will ask for 2 references from people who have known you for at least 1 year and where necessary we will carry out a Criminal Record Check If you wish to be accompanied by a support worker we will ask you both to complete the application process.

Complete a Volunteer application form August 2018 and send to: The Voluntary Service Department, Stockport NHS Foundation Trust , Poplar Grove, Stockport SK2 7JE or by email to: voluntaryservices@stockport.nhs.uk

LEISURE

50 plus magazine

19th and 20th December 2018 7pm - 10pm Figgy Pudding Christmas inspired songs and prose around the piano. Returning for their 11th helping! A rich recipe of old and new, traditional and contemporary, humorous and nostalgic, served up with lashings of merriment. Tickets include a warmed glass of mulled wine, a delicious minced pie and a viewing the Hall decked out for Christmas. The Hall will open at 7pm, Concert starts at 8pm.

Bramall Hall, Hall Road, Bramhall SK7 3NX £21.08 (including booking fee) Tickets available online, search for figgy pudding Bramall Hall

Wednesday 12TH December 2018 Carols by Renaissance Returning to Bramall Hall due to popular demand 'Renaissance' will perfom a mixed repetoire of acred, secular and Christmas classics. Come along, sing and celebrate the season. Tickets include a warmed glass of mulled wine, a delicious minced pie and a viewing the Hall decked out for Christmas.

Bramall Hall, Hall Road, Bramhall SK7 3NX 19:00 - 22:00 Visit www.stockport.gov.uk for more info and tickets

22nd December 11:30pm BARBARA NICE FESTIVE SEPCIAL Barbara Nice is back by popular demand with her annual festive shindig complete with raffle, tombola and mince pies. Join her in a bumper bundle selection box of seasonal fun with all the trimmings. Book early to avoid disappointment. This will make the perfect 'festive do' in the company of lovable Barbara - – Mother of Five who believes in bargains and getting the most out of life – Ergonomically correct, she doesn't drive and travels the country by National Express coach – her husband knows nothing of her burgeoning comedy career – he thinks she's either at Bingo or dog sitting. Barbara starred in “That Peter Kay thing” and then went on to star in both series of "Phoenix Nights" as god fearing Holy Mary. She played Peter Kay's mum In Coronation Street and also appeared in "Max and Paddy" - as Holy Mary.

1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, Trafford, M33 7ZF, UK T: 0161 912 5616

Thursday 13TH December 2018 Gordon Giltrap in Concert Over five decades, he has graced the music business with his dedication to his craft and is one of the UK’s most respected guitarists. He is back out on the road performing many of his incredible songs in what promises to be an electrifying solo acoustic show. Hear classics such as 'Heartsong' and 'Lucifer’s Cage' and new material from his latest album 'The Last of England'. Bramall Hall, Hall Road, Bramhall, Stockport, SK7 3NX Visit www.stockport.gov.uk for more info and tickets

Friday 18th January 2019 7:30pm SOME GUYS HAVE ALL THE LUCK Some Guys Have All The Luck is a fantastic theatrical production celebrating the career of one of rocks greatest icons, Rod Stewart! Paul Metcalfe delivers an authentic and charismatic performance assuming the persona of this legendary singer-songwriter and performer right down to the last detail – from the distinctive vocals to the swaggering showmanship and sheer fun that have made Rod Stewart one of the most loved performers of all time. The Plaza, Mersey Square, Stockport, SK1 1SP www.stockportplaza.co.uk T: 0161 477 7779

Saturday 26th January 2019 7:30pm THE SEARCHERS – FAREWELL CONCERT TOUR There is no doubt that the swinging 60’s was a very special time and will go down in history as being the most imaginative period of music creativity and expression. With such classic hits as, Sweets For My Sweet; Needles and Pins; Don’t Throw Your Love Away; Sugar and Spice and When You Walk In The Room , THE SEARCHERS have contributed enormously in establishing the UK as the world’s leading country in the music industry. Their total record sales exceed 50 million. The Searchers have been touring the globe, entertaining audiences of all ages for more than 50 years and they have now decided to retire. This Farewell ‘solo’ Concert will not only include all their famous hits, but also many album tracks and well-known favourites, as well as anecdotes and reminiscences of their remarkable career.

February 11th 2019 2:30pm JACK & THE BEANSTALK This classic fairytale now gets the Lyngo treatment so expect lots of surprises and beautiful images as Patrick Lynch (from Cbeebies) tells the gripping story of Jack who sells his cow for 5 magic beans and finds himself in the land above the clouds. It’s a show for the over 3’s (and their giants) with something for everyone – enormous shoes, tiny houses, showers of silver and gold and a big, leafy explosion! 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, Trafford, M33 7ZF, UK T: 0161 912 5616 www.watersidearts.org

Don’t miss The Searchers FAREWELL CONCERT! The Plaza, Mersey Square, Stockport, SK1 1SP www.stockportplaza.co.uk T: 0161 477 7779

February 14th 7:30pm THOSE MAGNIFICENT MEN

Thursday 7th February December 2019 7.30pm THE LIONEL RICHIE SONGBOOK ‘The Lionel Richie Songbook’ is back in 2019 with a stellar line-up of world class musicians including Talon’s own Jonny Miller and the awesome talent of Malcolm Pitt as the voice of Lionel Richie in this high octane show which includes all the greatest hits… ‘Easy’, ‘Say You Say Me’, ‘Stuck On You’, Dancing On The Ceiling’, ‘Three Times A Lady’, ‘Hello’, ‘All Night Long’ and many more… The Plaza, Mersey Square, Stockport, SK1 1SP www.stockportplaza.co.uk T: 0161 477 7779

2019 is the centenary of one of the greatest moments of aviation history and a truly British First – the first ever nonstop flight across the Atlantic. The nail-biting, side-splitting true story of this daredevil flight by Mancunians pilot Capt. John Alcock and navigator Lt. Arthur Whitten Brown is told in the hit stage play Those Magnificent Men by acclaimed writing duo Mitchell & Nixon. In the tiny open cockpit of a converted Vickers biplane, they flew from Newfoundland through dense fog, sleet, snow and hail – sometimes upside down – to Ireland and worldwide celebrity. To commemorate this centenary, the Foundry Group is once more reviving its highly popular production, starring Radio 4 regular David Mounfield (‘Count Arthur Strong’s Radio Show’) and writer/performer Brian Mitchell (‘The Ministry of Biscuits’) who endeavor to tell the epic tale with just cardboard, two stools and some left-over props.

1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, Trafford, M33 7ZF, UK T: 0161 912 5616 www.watersidearts.org

HEALTH

50 plus magazine

YOUR DOCTOR

TIPS ON EYE HEALTH

our eyes rarely hurt when there’s a problem so it’s important to have regular checks not only to see if you need glasses but also to ensure your eyes remain healthy. If you’re a regular smoker you could be causing severe damage to your vision. Smoking increases the chances of developing a cataract which occurs when the lens of the eye becomes progressively cloudy resulting in blurred vision. Know if someone in your family has a pre-existing eye condition because you may be more vulnerable to developing that same disease in the future, but something may be able to be done in advance to help you. Regular exercise and physical activity will help all aspects of your health including your eyes. For example, people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to have issues with their eyesight which can include damaged retinas (retinopathy). High blood pressure and medications ie steroids can also affect your eye health. For those of you who wear contact lenses, don’t ever use out of date solution, give your eyes a regular break, avoid swimming and showering with them in

and if you have a particularly bad cold, avoid wearing them altogether. You can keep your eyes healthy by ensuring you are eating omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, lutein and vitamins C and E. These minerals can help ward off age-related vision problems, cataracts

and general deterioration. Food that are thought to contribute towards good eye health are oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and tuna, and green leafy vegetables including kale and spinach. Never look at the sun directly as you could cause irreversible damage to your eyesight. Too much sunlight exposure is a risk factor for cataracts. Wearing the right pair of sunglasses in bright weather will help shield your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Choose a pair of sunglasses that blocks out 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Use professional safety eyewear if you work in a hazardous environment, particularly when involving airborne materials. The majority of workplace eye injuries are caused by flying, falling or sparking small particles or objects such as metal slivers, wood chips or dust which strike or scrape the eye. Nearly threefifths of these objects are thought to be smaller than a pinhead.

Have an annual eye exam – Visit your nearest optometrist for regular check-ups especially if you are concerned about your vision deteriorating or have symptoms such as a flickering eye lid. Don’t leave it to get worse. Spending a lot of time watching television or staring at the computer screen for long lengths of time can cause eye irritation which can lead to greater problems with the eyes. Limit your screen time and take breaks. Be careful when using chemicals such as oven cleaners, bleach, weed killers and fertilisers as they can cause severe harm to your eyes. Lock harmful chemicals away from infants.

By Dr Riccardo Di Cuffa, Director and GP at Your Doctor www.your-doctor.co.uk

HEALTH

50 plus magazine

HOW DIFFERENT EXERCISES CAN HELP FIGHT MEDICAL CONDITIONS

vidence of the benefits of exercising is overwhelming these days. With most medical conditions, it is still important that you continue to exercise but it is essential that you do exercises that are appropriate to you; remember even walking, stretching or housework helps. To follow are ten suggestions of how to use exercise to feel better, but make sure that you first get advice from your GP if you have any injuries or illnesses. DEPRESSION - The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends that people with mild to moderate depression do 45 minutes to one hour of exercise three times a week. Exercise helps release feel positive brain chemicals including neurotransmitters, endorphins and endocannabinoids. Increases body temperature which may have a calming effect, helps us gain confidence, takes our mind off our worries and encourages social interaction and a way of coping healthily. DEMENTIA - To help reduce the symptoms of dementia, activity such gentle gardening helps to keep us strong and gives sufferers

some independence back which may have been lost. DIABETES - To lower your risk of diabetes, reducing weight by trying swimming or a water aerobics class can help to keep blood glucose well controlled and blood pressure on target and improve blood circulation. CANCER – One in every two people will be affected by cancer but the survival rate has doubled over the past 40 years. Exercising can help prevent cancer but can also reduce the side effects of treatment, decrease the risk of re-occurring cancer and can enhance quality of life during and after cancer treatments OSTEOPOROSIS - It’s important to keep your joints moving and to do strengthening exercises such as walking, swimming and cycling. Exercising can increase bone mineral density which helps to maintain strong bones. From your twenties onwards you can help prevent bone loss by exercising regularly (women are particularly at risk after the menopause). HEART DISEASE - Those suffering from heart disease should take it easy and not do

any exercise that causes pain or dizziness. but make sure you warm-up and cool-down before any form of light workout to avoid feeling lightheaded. STROKE - As recovery improves, repetitive tasks like stretching and gripping movements can encourage normal function. Ask your specialist or GP for guidance. BACK PAIN – Your back may be strained from sitting down too much. Make sure you get up from your chair and move around every 45 minutes. Any form of suitable exercise will send endorphins to the problem area and help to promote pain relief, but don’t do anything that makes your symptoms feel worse. STRESS - To alleviate stress, if appropriate try a vigorous activity such as fast skipping or kick boxing. Exercise reduces cortisol and norepinephrine associated with stress. At the same time endorphins that are responsible for the feeling of elation and positive well-being are released, as are dopamine and serotonin which give a feeling of safety and security that may offset feelings of anxiety and negative selftalk.

National Helpline 0800 917 7650 www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

Alcoholics Anonymous has over 4,400 groups throughout Great Britain dedicated to helping those with a serious alcohol problem learn how to stay sober. Groups are made up of people from all walks of life and all age groups. Through friendship and mutual support, members assist each other in coping which is made easier by meeting others with the same problem. There are no dues or fees for membership and anonymity is carefully preserved. Anyone who believes they have a drink problem can contact Alcoholics Anonymous by using the helpline number above or email; help@aamail.org Further information may be obtained from the web site above or from the General Service Office at the address below. For information: P.O. Box 1, 10 Toft Green, York. YO1 7NJ Tel: 01904 644 026 32

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Providing local services for local people

For over a quarter of a century Age UK Stockport has been working as a local independent charity providing support to people in later life. For information on our many services visit our website :

www.ageukstockport.org.uk Or call us on: 0161 480 1211

Visit Age UK Stockport at our convenient public office for both Information and Advice and also Insurance and a range of other Products and Services tailor made for the over 50’s. Available 9.30am-3.00pm, Monday to Friday at: Unit 34 Great Underbank, Mersey Shopping Centre, Stockport SK1 1PD (Near the Post Office!) For information or an appointment call

0161 477 1213

Registered Charity number: 1139547

Supporting independent living Step Out Stockport offers fun, friendship and activities for living well and living independently. It delivers a new approach to Day Services supporting people through a range of building based and community activities in Stockport. When people need a higher level of support, generally or just for a period of time, there is an experienced and skilled staff team who can offer assistance and support whilst at Step Out.

Tailored care and support in your home and in your life – working alongside you. A bespoke service supporting adults that require varying levels of support or care. This includes personal care, shopping, domestic support, companionship, leisure activities, supporting hospital and other appointments, through to supporting people with complex conditions such as dementia, Parkinsons, stroke or palliative care. We are committed to ensuring our service is friendly, flexible and person led.

Open seven days a week and offering a range of times and sessions to suit each person’s individual needs. If you are interested in any aspect of Step Out Stockport please contact us.

Visit our website at: www.stepoutstockport.org Call us on: 0161 480 0480 Email us at: info@stepoutstockport.org

If you would like an informal chat please do not hesitate to contact us details below: Tandem Care Commonweal, 56 Wellington Street, Stockport SK1 3AQ

Visit our website at: www.tandem-care.org.uk Call us on: 0161 480 1211 Email us at: contact@tandem-care.org.uk

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HEALTH

50 plus magazine

Quality dentures mean a quality lifestyle THE IMPORTANCE OF DENTURES

he eyes, nose and teeth are the focal points of every face; they give the first impressions of your personality. Natural teeth grow in proportion and in harmony with your facial features and your dentures should be made accordingly. Your teeth, or your dentures, have many important functions: to support your facial muscles, to help formulate your speech, and most importantly to chew your food and start the digestive process. It is very important to chew food properly, as poorly chewed food will take longer to digest, especially for the elderly who could risk problems in the digestive system. DIFFICULTIES IN CONSTRUCTING A GOOD SET OF DENTURES Constructing a functional and aesthetically pleasing set of dentures is the most difficult task in dentistry. We are not only replacing lost teeth, but also lost tissue matter and bone. In other words, we have

to re-create your facial features as they were before the loss of your natural teeth. In most cases we do not know what your teeth looked like, what size they were or what position they were in originally. We have a few indications but mostly we have to rely on our visual and artistic judgement. At the same time we have to use our technical expertise in order to make the denture stable and functional. Denture construction is more art than science.

the whole job is done by the same person.

CHOICE OF DENTURES

1. Quality of dentures. 2. Age of Patient.

There are three main quality standards in denture materials: Denture Base Acrylics: standard quality, high impact much stronger non brittle and the latest thermoplastic. Denture Teeth: 2-layer acrylic very basic and cheap, 3-layer acrylic re-enforced much harder, 4-layer composite extra hard and natural looking. However, good materials on their own will not make good dentures. A skilful and experienced clinician and technician are required. The best results are achieved when

HOW LONG SHOULD DENTURES LAST? The question we should ask is, how long will my dentures be functional for? Dentures can last twenty or more years, but will lose their function (chewing ability, proper fit etc.) probably after two years. This will depend on many factors:

3. General health of patient. 4. Any drastic change in weight. DENTURES NEED REGULAR SERVICING Dentures are in constant use almost 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are also in a pretty hostile environment in the mouth, being attacked by strong acid, bacteria, hot, cold and spicy food. Denture material absorbs liquids and food odour.

Daily cleaning is essential as well as professional ultrasonic cleaning in a dental laboratory at least once a year. Due to constant bone resorbtion dentures will become loose sooner or later. Loose dentures will increase damage to the gums and bone structure, and increase the risk of breakage. Have them re-lined as soon as possible to get a good fit. It only takes a day or two. Have your dentures inspected by a dentist or denturist at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.

WHERE DO I GO TO HAVE A GOOD SET OF DENTURES MADE? Every dentist can make dentures, but not all of them will specialise in denture making. Denturists will take the greatest care to make your dentures look natural and fit properly. They can give you and your dentures the time and attention you deserve.

YOUR DENTURES NEED ATTENTION

2. Have your dentures inspected every two years, and re- lined or ultra-sonically cleaned.

1. When they become loose. 2. When teeth or denture base discolours. 3. When tooth surfaces become flat. 4. When denture base does not fit around natural teeth (in partial dentures). 5. When you develop deep lines around your mouth. 6. When your chin sticks out, and the corners of your lips are constantly wet, developing sores. 7. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.

SUMMARY 1. Clean your dentures daily with a denture brush and denture cream.

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. 6.

With a new set of dentures, you should receive a written guarantee, a detailed prescription of the materials used in your dentures, cleaning and servicing instructions, and a cleaning kit.

7. Dentures so life-like you'd think they were real.

the A service that will make you smile!

Offering Denture Perfection

LOOSE DENTURES Can be re-lined by adding a thin layer of the new acrylic to fit the surface of the dentures, making them fit better (takes one or two days). DENTURES WITH WORN DOWN TEETH Teeth can be replaced with a new set. Major improvements in Facial Features Padding dentures to reduce lines and fill up sunken cheeks will require a new set of dentures. It is advisable to have a new set of dentures made every 5 to 10 years. SHOULD I HAVE A SPARE SET OF DENTURES MADE? Yes, it is very important to have a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage.

• • • • •

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www.thedenturepeople.com • www.hillsidedentures.co.uk enquiries@hillsidedentures.co.uk Hillside Denture Centre, The Archways private medical & health clinic 86 Stockport Road, Romiley, Stockport SK6 3AA TEL: 0161 406 0400 The Didsbury Denture Centre, the dental health centre 1B School Lane, Didsbury M20 6RD TEL: 0161 445 5459

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Specialists in driveways, paths and patios. • A porous surface kinder on the environment. • Slip-resistant and wheelchair friendly. • Hand-trowelled for an impeccable finish. • Excellent traction ideal for driving. • Prevents flooding, puddles and • Available in a wide range of colours unsightly weeds. and styles.

Approved Materials & Systems Cert No. 18/5476

*Resindrives.co.uk is a trading name of resindrives.co.uk ltd. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN743675) We are a credit broker and not a lender, we offer credit facilities from a panel of lenders. Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply.

✓ BBA approved installation process. ✓ Insurance backed guarantee. ✓ Over 10 years experience.