Stockport & trafford issue 53

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017

STOCKPORT & TRAFFORD EDITION 53

John Bishop THE CHEERY SCOUSER GOES ON TOUR

Indian Cooking

Have a say IN HOW YOUR LOCAL NHS SERVICES ARE DELIVERED

ANJUM ANAND'S DELICIOUS RECIPES

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Robinsons Own Hotels Festive Breaks Ocean View, Isle of Wight The management and staff welcome you to our ‘pre-Christmas’ festivities at our own hotels.

Your break will include both ‘Christmas Day’ and ‘New Year’s Eve’ style celebrations.

Tour 08M - 4 Nights DBB

Tour 08C - 6 Nights DBB

1st November

£189

5th November

£259

5th November

£189

19th November

£259

11th November

£185

Enjoy our themed nightly entertainment from our resident entertainers after dinner; be sure to bring your dancing shoes, as there will be plenty of music to get you in the festive spirit.

15th November

£185

19th November

£179

25th November

£179

4th December

£169*

Supplements:

Each hotel puts on multiple games and competitions, such as:

11th December

£165*

(08M) Premier Room £30 Sea View Room £10

23rd December

£399

(18D) Premier Room £50 Sea View Room £17

•

29th December

£349

•

• •

Guess the weight of the Christmas cake, with the chance to win a prize and all proceeds going to charity Big prize word search - all correctly completed entry forms will be entered into our draw on 12 January 2018, for a chance to win a Robinsons Holidays 8 day holiday or a Holdsworth Hotels 8 day self-drive holiday (terms and conditions apply) Movie matinee with tea, coffee and biscuits General knowledge quiz with a prize to be won

Other activities available throughout your stay: • • •

Photo with Santa Best Christmas Jumper Competition - prize to be won Games and fun to be enjoyed

‘Christmas Day’ celebrations • • •

Sherry and Canapé reception, served 15 minutes prior to your dinner sitting Traditional table d’hote dinner Bingo and hot mince pies during the evening

‘New Year’s Eve’ celebrations • • • •

Bucks Fizz reception, served 15 minutes prior to your dinner sitting New Year’s Eve dinner Party games with spot prizes to be won in the evening’s entertainment Bingo and hot sausage rolls in the evening

Tour 18D - 8 Nights DBB 11th November

£309

25th November

-

(08C) Premier Room £45 Sea View Room £13

Imperial, Eastbourne Tour 05M - 4 Nights DBB

Tour 05C - 6 Nights DBB

1st November

£189

5th November

£259

5th November

-

19th November

£259

11th November

£185

15th November

£185

19th November

£179

25th November

£179

4th December

£169*

Supplements:

11th December

£165*

(05M) Premier Room £20

23rd December

£399

(15D) Premier Room £35

29th December

-

Tour 15D - 8 Nights DBB 11th November

£309

25th November

£309

(05C) Premier Room £30

Abbey Lawn, Torquay Tour 01M - 4 Nights DBB

Tour 01C - 6 Nights DBB

1st November

£189

5th November

-

5th November

-

19th November

£259

11th November

£185

15th November

£185

19th November

-

25th November

£179

4th December

£169*

11th December

£165*

23rd December

£399

29th December

£349

Supplements: (01M) Premier Room £30 Front Facing Room £10 (01C) Premier Room £45 Front Facing Room £13 (11A/11B) Premier Room £50 Front Facing Room £15

* Unlimited singles

Call Freephone: 083local 9900 visit Freephone 0800 083 90260800 or visit your travelor agent

your local travel agent 1501

UK Festive Breaks Babbacombe Seabury Hotel

Bournemouth Mayfair Hotel

North Yorkshire Warners Nidd Hall

The Seabury Hotel welcomes you with festive cheer. Tea and coffee will be served daily throughout the whole stay. There will be mince pies/ sausage rolls on return from excursions.

Christmas Day breakfast, lunch and dinner will be buffet style. Entertainment will be offered each night. Guests will be greeted on arrival by a snow machine, stockings on door handles on Christmas Eve, and Santa will be handing out presents on Christmas Day. A real festive treat!

The Turkey and Tinsel tour on 27th November features nightly entertainment including bingo and a live entertainer, as well as a ‘Christmas Day’ style celebration featuring a festive dinner complete with crackers. Santa will also be handing out presents.

The Christmas tour on 23rd December 2017 at the charming Mayfair includes daily lunch, competitions and quizzes, with entertainment each night. On Christmas Day Santa will be round to hand out gifts to the guests. There will also be carol singing.

Sit back, relax and enjoy Christmas and New Year rolled into one on a Festive break at Warners Nidd Hall hotel in North Yorkshire. Set within an imposing building with its ivy clad façade, stained glass

Tour BABB 4 Nights, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast + 1 Excursion Christmas Tour

23 December

Single Supplement

£549 £NIL

Tour BOUR 4 Nights, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast + 2 Excursions Festive Break

27 November

Single Supplement

Llandudno Kensington Hotel

Tour LLAN 4 Nights, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast + 2 Excursions 4 December

Single Supplement

£309 £NIL

Tour BOUR 4 Nights, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast + 1 Excursion Christmas Tour

23 December

Single Supplement

£NIL

Tour WNID 4 Nights, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast + 2 Excursions

Tour BOUR 4 Nights, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast + 1 Excursion

This fantastic festive break includes daily afternoon tea and coffee with biscuits and cake.

On the third night there will be a ‘Christmas’ dinner, complete with a visit from Santa. There will also be nightly entertainment, with a festive theme.

Enjoy the festive cheer whilst taking in the spectacular views of the Great Orme and Llandudno Bay.

Festive Break

£269

£499 £NIL

Cheshire Shrigley Hall Enjoy a festive package at this elegant Victorian country house, complete with nightly entertainment with a Christmas theme, daily tea and coffee and traditional Christmas dinner. The hotel will be decked with holly and festive tunes will help get you in the seasonal spirit. Why not pull a cracker or two while partaking in one of the many activities and entertainment on offer?

Christmas Tour

23 December

Single Supplement

Nidd Hall is the ideal place to re-charge your batteries before the real Christmas onslaught. Enjoy a Christmas Day themed meal with all the trimmings, including a visit from Santa; follow this with a Boxing Day and New Year themed celebration.

Entertainment includes a festive show, traditional panto and fun and games.

From Nidd Hall’s terrace, the view is as dramatic as any in the Dales. Built for a wool merchant, the hall was renowned for its fun parties; something we maintain with our nightly entertainment.

£538 £NIL

Festive Break Single Supplement Signature Room

27 November

£393 £NIL £25

Thursford Christmas Spectacular Links Park Country Hotel The Links Park Country Hotel invites you with a warm welcome to enjoy a pre-Christmas package, complete with a ticket to the fantastic Thursford Christmas Spectacular.

Set in the magical surrounds of mechanical organs, fairground carousels, with a cast of 130 professional singers, dancers and musicians - many of whom are West End performers! After the show enjoy mulled wine and mince pies, before settling down to the night’s entertainment.

Tour THUR 4 Nights, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast + 2 Excursions Festive Break

13 November

£408

Festive Break

27 November

£408

Festive Break

04 December

£408

Festive Break

11 December

£408

Single Supplement

£NIL

Tour CHES 4 Nights, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast + 3 Excursions Festive Break Single Supplement

26 November

£269 £NIL

Freephone 0800 083 9026 or visit your local travel agent

www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk

Robinsons Holidays, Park Garage Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP

inside Did you know that your posture is a predictor of future health?

How you hold your body upright against gravity on a day-to-day basis is one of the most significant factors impacting vitality.

The majority of us don’t know this crucial bit of information relating to posture.

JOHN BISHOP NEW TOUR PAGES 12-13

TRAVEL...

Prague, Vienna and Budapest with Trafalgar PAGES 6-7

HOME...

SIMPLE WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR HOME PAGES 14-15

Most of us have been told to sit up straight since we were children, when we hear the word ‘posture’ our natural response is to sit up straighter. However, the majority of us only associate posture with how we look, recognising we look taller and more confident when we sit up straight with our shoulders pulled back.

We invite you to come in for a postural assessment, please quote this special offer when making the booking.

Live a great life.... love your spine!

What we don’t realise is that sitting up straight not only makes us look better, but can improve the quality and quantity of life in the future.

“I’m in pain” “Can Chiropractic help me?”

OFFER PRICE £39

Expiry date 30th November 2017

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

For a limited period we will complete a full consultation, examination, Neuro Scan, X ray, full report of findings and one treatment all for

£39.00 (Normally £142.00)

INDIAN COOKING ANJUM ANAND'S DELICIOUS RECIPES PAGES19-21

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We treat these conditions • Headaches, back pain, neck pain If you are experiencing any of • Prevention of migraines these symptoms please call our • Muscle spasms, joint pain clinic today for an appointment • Tired all the time, tension Marple Chiropractic Clinic 8-10 Derby Way, Marple SK6 7AH 0161 449 5006 www.chiropracticsolutions.co.uk Stockport Chiropractic Clinic 466 Didsbury Road, Heaton Mersey, SK4 3BS 0161 432 6708

Providing local services for local people

A local independent charity providing information and 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 town centre public office for general Information and Advice and also Insurance and a range of other lifestyle Products and Services Unit 34 Great Underbank Mersey Shopping Centre Stockport SK1 1PD (Near the Post Office!)

For information or an appointment call

0161 477 1213

Offers fun, friendship and activities for living well and living independently.

Step Out delivers a fresh approach to Day Services supporting people through a range of building based and community activities in Stockport When people’s needs change generally or just for a period of time, there is a team of experienced and skilled staff who can offer assistance and support Open seven days a week and offering a range of times and sessions to suit individual needs.

If you are interested in any aspect of Step Out Stockport please contact us as follows Visit our website at: www.stepoutstockport.org Call us on: 0161 480 0480 Email us at: info@stepoutstockport.org

50 Plus Travel

sponsored by Budapest Night Lights

Christmas. Music oozes from every street and over the centuries the city has become the most important music capital in the world. Mozart, Beethoven, Mahler, Brahms, Haydn and Schubert all called Vienna home. Bohemian Rhapsody.

If you are hungry then head for Hungary. Not that we were, but the food is superb. Budapest has the best ice cream this side of Italy. The capital and the powerhouse that drives this great country. And if the daily papers are to be believed the dental capital of Europe too!

Prague, Vienna and Budapest with Trafalgar

By Dave Harcombe from Silver Travel Advisor A delighted throng below. The skeleton rings a bell and inverts an hour glass.

Life is short, life is finite. Be happy and sprinkle your life with humour. On the Vltava river swans glide by with panache. The famous skyline reflects in the still waters stunningly beautiful and magical.

A five star road trip right in the heart of Europe. With a cast of forty eight, a pot pourri of nationalities and the best driver and tour director in the world.

Ten days. Three perfectly preserved cities of romance, rich in history and diverse in culture. Five star hotels in perfect locations - three nights in each.

Prague never fails to impress. An attractive city with picture book moments. Brimming with charm. Turrets and spires reach high into the sky.

Closer to God, almost touching heaven.

Crowds gather at the famous 600 year old astronomical clock. On the hour robotic figures traipse out, do their business and traipse back in. Job done.

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Vienna is much bigger than Prague.

27 palaces, 20 markets and 850 parks.

Streets so clean and litter free. Does a powerful Dyson emerge at night to remove the daily detritus? Presumably the sewers are immaculate too with rats wearing bow ties and expensive leather shoes. Vienna has 160 plus museums too. Cherry pick the best and you will not be disappointed.

The Uhrenmuseum - the clock museum - is tick tock perfect. A timeless delight. The Snow Globe museum is wacky and offbeat and not just for

The old cobbled streets are a delight beckoning to be discovered. Once again there are museums aplenty including “ The House of Terror”, “The Hospital in the Rock” and “The House of Houdini “- we had difficulty founding our way out! There are 120 geothermal baths to choose from.

Arrive jaded, depart refreshed. And the most exquisite building in the world is here too- The Hungarian Parliament is jaw-dropping perfect.

Extraordinary castles, wonderful palaces, amazing cathedrals. The crown jewels. A madcap restaurant. Gorgeous cakes. A dancing house. Gothic Charles bridge. Bratislava was a revelation, Gyor even more so. A sensational Strauss concert in Vienna. An almost private classical recital in a candlelit monastery too. The Blue Room. Esztergom Basilica. The Fisherman’s Bastion. The Spanish Riding School. Heroes Square.

The Millennium underground- the first European metro line.

Prague Cityscape View

TRAVEL Street theatre. Tram rides, boat trips, river cruises, walks with witty and knowledgeable guides. Stunning gardens. Wine tasting, a brewery visit.

Fabulous art. Steamy hot coffee. Big skies and an ever-present sun. Oh did I mention the cakes?

Tour director Paul Wormsbacher and driver Gabor Imre worked incredibly hard to ensure a superb holiday experience for all. Gabor is Hungary’s answer to George Clooney or maybe George Clooney is America’s answer to Gabor. Both Paul and Gabor have big hearts, big personalities, incredible local knowledge and always big smiles.

Everything planned to perfection.

Gabor’s driving was excellent and from the start we knew we in safe hands. If all travel companies had reps as good as Paul then the world of travel would be more enjoyable and the world so much smaller and friendlier. No wonder Trafalgar have been awarded more accolades than any other company globally. Trafalgar are consistently setting new standards in world travel.

Simply the best. Just turn up sit back and they do the rest.

Erzherzog Karl Memorial - Vienna

The 10 day, 9 night tour to Prague, Vienna and Budapest starts from £1,271 per person, based on two people sharing.

For more information about Trafalgar Tours to Europe and worldwide, visit www.trafalgar.com/uk or call 0800 533 5616.

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

Alcoholics Anonymous has over 4,000 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 you can contact Alcoholics Anonymous by using the helpline number above.

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

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www.ellensmith.co.uk

Why not join one of our Quality Door to Door Coach Tours?

We pick- up at your door in most of the Greater Manchester area. We visit every part of the UK from the Shetland Islands to Cornwall. Our drivers are very experienced mature individuals with a wealth of knowledge about our wonderful country. We do city breaks, historic adventures, scenic tours, train rides, boat rides, canal trips, not forgetting our numerous coastal resorts.

On your first day of travel we pick you up at your front door at a pre-arranged time in a minibus or taxi. You are then transferred to a central meeting point, either Birch Services or Poplar Services dependant upon where you live, where the coach is waiting for you.

Within 15 to 30 minutes you’re on your way aboard our luxury coach travelling directly to your holiday destination, making suitable stops en-route. The hotels that we use are of a 3 or 4 star standard or occasionally a good quality family run 2 star hotel. Upon your return to either Birch Services or Poplar your taxi or minibus is waiting to whisk you home.

Included in every tour... l

Good Standard Hotel l Half Board l All Excursions l Door to Door Service

Ellen Smith Price Promise 1. Everything is included in the final price – no hidden charges 2. Every customer will pay the same price - no last minute reductions!

3. No currency charges - even post Brexit!

4. Any additional charges from the hotel will be passed on without surcharge 5. If you find a similar holiday cheaper we'll refund the difference to the whole coach

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rs 2 017

Llandudno Value Weekend The Marlborough Hotel In 2017, we introduced our Value Weekends staying at The Marlborough Hotel in Llandudno. . These included half-board accommodation, one night of entertainment, a visit to a town/area by coach & a three course Sunday lunch which proved very popular with our clients.

10th Nov - 3 Days - £179

Newquay ‘Turkey & Tinsel’ The Esplanade Hotel

Blackpool - The Doric Hotel A holiday in Blackpool will leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed and recharged - even if you’re on the go 25 hours a day! Perhaps it’s the resort’s infectious zest for life. Or maybe it’s just that, uniquely, whatever your routine Blackpool can offer a perfect break from it.

13th Nov - 5 Days - £239

Babbacombe - De La Mer Hotel

This Turkey & Tinsel tour which includes halfboard accommodation, a Sherry Reception with Mince Pies, Live Entertainment, a Traditional Christmas Dinner on one evening, a visit from Santa with treats for everyone, Bingo, Quiz and a New Year’s Eve party.

20th Nov - 5 Days - £275

26th Nov - 5 Days - £279

Christmas In & Around Colchester - Best Western Marks Tey Hotel

Mature Singles, Christmas in the West Country - Holiday Inn Hotel Plymouth

Colchester, Britain’s oldest recorded town, is where the Romans set up their base in England. The town boasts a wide ‘boulevard’ as a main street. At one end of the street is Castle Park, complete with the largest Norman keep ever constructed and riverside walks.

The City of Plymouth has a great naval history, stretching back to the time of Sir Francis Drake and the Spanish Armada to today’s ultra modern navy dockyards. We feature two half day excursions, one taking us into Cornwall and the other to rugged Dartmoor.

23rd Dec - 5 Days - £479

23rd Dec - 5 Days - £489

Call our reservations office on 01706 648126 and request a copy of our 2017 brochure. You’ll be surprised at the variations of tours we operate. Visit our website at www.ellensmith.co.uk

www.ellens mith.co.uk Membership No: 10228

This pretty resort once played host to Royalty and visitors when Torquay was only a small fishing village. With a superb view over Torbay from the Downs, Babbacombe boasts the highest promenade in England. Here you will find probably the best model village there is, and the Bygones Museum is also worth a visit.

INTERESTED?

DO OR TO DO OR

CALL FOR FREE 2017 BROCHURE

Coach Tou

A SELECTION OF OUR 2017 COACH TOURS

Bournemouth - The Mayfair Hotel With seven miles of golden sands and sparkling sea, the vibrant cosmopolitan town of Bournemouth has it all - a vast variety of shops and restaurants, buzzing nightlife, endless countryside offering peace and relaxation and beautiful award winning gardens.

20th Nov - 5 Days - £259

Wiltshire & Bath Christmas Market - Wessex Hotel, Street We enjoy an out of season break to the county of Wiltshire where we take time to visit the beautiful city of Salisbury as it is surrounded by a landscape that is so quintessentially English.

We also enjoy a full day visit to Bath where we have free time to enjoy the Christmas Market.

3rd Dec - 5 Days - £199

New Year in St Agnes Rosemundy House Hotel Join us at The Rosemundy House Hotel, St. Agnes for New Year. The Rosemundy House is a popular hotel with our clients who always receive a very warm welcome. An elegant 3 star hotel set in over 4 acres of secluded gardens and woodlands.

29th Dec - 5 Days - £399

Find us on facebook & twitter (search for ellensmithtours)

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Mermaid Inn, Rye

Santorini and Crete – slices of Greek island paradise Santorini Silver Travel Advisor writer, David Graham, tells us why it’s one of his favourite places. Cliche time, but there’s one Greek holiday island that really deserves its place on any ‘must see’ list before you take the final trip no traveller ever returns from.

No surprise to be told that it’s Santorini, which stakes a firm claim to being the inspiration for the mythical paradise of Atlantis and still manages to cast a spell on everyone lucky enough to go there.

The approach is simply stunning, especially by sea, as you sail in under the towering, multi-coloured cliffs, with the picture-postcard clusters of gleaming white houses and bluedomed churches icing the top at the capital, Fira, and picturesque Oia. Once ashore, the first thing that strikes you about the beaches is that the sand is black. Or sometimes white. Or even red – but mainly black, for mile after unspoiled mile. It becomes even more bizarre the more you look at what you’re walking on – and realise you’re visiting one of the most amazing places on the planet – the remains of a volcano that erupted around 1,500BC.

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Visitors are astounded by wind-carved rocks which look like a Star Trek set, cave houses dug into hillsides all over the island, and cliffs sculpted into shapes which would be impressive in the Tate Modern.

That said, there are vineyards too which produce very drinkable wines, offered in settings just perfect for the most romantic of Santorini sunsets. There are trendy new establishments on the island, although it’s not too hard to find a traditional taverna, where the

whole family is involved in cooking and serving exceptional local dishes.

Akrotiri on the south coast is a good spot for such an experience. Perissa and Perivolos are also here and cater very much for the tourist market, which might not be for everyone’s taste, but are certainly worth a look.

We stayed in Kamari, just around the huge, high headland which is the site of the island’s ancient capital – a five-minute trip by handy water taxi from Perissa, or a scenic drive by car,

TRAVEL The serene charms of Crete and Santorini provide the perfect setting for an archaeological odyssey into the deep-rooted antiquity of European culture. Meet the Minoans, Europe’s earliest civilisation. This creative, prosperous society, named after the legendary King Minos, was the forerunner to Classical Greece and has been shrouded in an aura of mystery and mythology ever since. Here was the birth of Zeus, the seduction of Europa, the labyrinth of the Minotaur and the fabled city of Atlantis.

via Emporio and back to Pyrgos, gateway to the rest of the island. It is a bustling resort in summer and also an established little town with family life at its heart, where locals live all year round. Excellent for the more authentic Greek holiday.

Get off the beaten track to where myth and reality converge in one of the Mediterranean’s most significant and sought after destinations. There is a fascinating array of archaeological sites to explore, including the palaces of Knossos and Phaistos, and a wealth of artistic treasures to see in the island’s museums, including superb frescoes, snake goddesses and golden-horned bulls. More details from Hidden History Travel.

If you love the high life, you can also discover that luxury hideaways in Fira, its upmarket neighbour Imerovigli, or sunset spot Oia. Spoiling yourself in such a stunning place is easy to do!

CONTACT

Crete

Sunvil offer wonderful holidays on Santorini. www.sunvil.co.uk Telephone 020 8758 4758

Silver Travel Advisor’s Jennie Carr visited Crete, where she was thrilled by the peace and quiet to be found on the western side of the island, with weather still perfect in October.

For archaeological discoveries in Greece, Hidden History Travel offer super escorted tours. www.hiddenhistory.co.uk Telephone 0121 444 1854

Heading up into the White Mountains, there are villages which step out of previous centuries, and a languor in the air which induces relaxation within seconds. Although the roads and switchbacks here do require a wide-awake driver, with an inclination to rallying! We happened upon a Byzantine church, open every other Tuesday afternoon, with original icons, and several tiny cave chapels that seemed to have grown from the ground.

ARCHAEOLOGY & TRAVEL

One of the great games in Crete is spelling because place names need to be translated from the Greek alphabet into Roman letters. What is seen on a road map may not reflect, by quite a few letters, what is seen on the actual road sign. And given that some road signs have suffered the odd bullet scar due to historic feuding, finding where you want to go can be a cross between orienteering and good guesswork. We loved it!

• Minoan Crete & Santorini • Cyprus: North & South • Pompeii & Campania • Malta's Millennia • Ancient Greece • And More...

Back on the more popular coast, the city of Chania has everything you’d expect from a former capital: Venetian harbour and lighthouse, a well-stocked produce market and restaurants ranging from Italian to tiny tavernas literally in archways. There’s a strong cultural life too, the English National Ballet were due to visit. Rethymnon charmed us – cobbled streets, wooden doorways aplenty and a flock of black-coated Orthodox priests popping up on every square.

The Fortezza here is impressive, with Venetian origin and Ottoman overtones including a masque within the fortress walls.

For a relaxing beach afternoon we sampled Kalives, good sand and a warm sea – wonderful in the warm October sun.

What could be better?

Simpson Travel offer villas and hotels on Crete www.simpsontravel.com Telephone 020 3393 0610

Perfect Combinations of Leisure and Interest

• Informed Travel • Beautiful Locations • Bespoke Itineraries • Expert Guides • Local Airports

RESERVE YOUR PLACE www.hiddenhistory.co.uk enquiries@hiddenhistory.co.uk tel: (UK) 0121 444 1854

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John Bishop The Cheery Scouser IF you ever needed an example of a cheery Scouser it’s a pretty safe bet that comedian John Bishop would come to mind. He is 50 now but with the boyish looks and toothy grin that he’s probably always had and, judging by his three sons, has passed this particular gene pool on to the next generation.

He still enjoys playing when he can and is an avid fan of Liverpool FC.

Analysing what makes so many people from Liverpool good comedians, it’s been said that it’s a defence against the wind whistling through the Mersey Tunnel or off the Irish Sea. Whatever the reason, it’s certainly all around this bustling city – in the pubs and clubs, the streets and football grounds.

He didn’t start performing stand-up comedy in clubs around the North-west, though, until he was 34. In front of the tough club audiences, he honed his act and people began to enjoy colourful tales about his life and family told in his engaging conversational way.

And the latter could well be where John Bishop’s humour was honed. He was always a keen footballer and played for non-league teams Hyde and Southport.

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Brought up in Huyton on Merseyside and in Winsford and Runcorn in Cheshire, John worked as a pharmaceutical rep. Plainly, however, he always had that dry Scouse humour.

His first appearance was in Manchester and the following year he made it to the final of major new act competitions including So You Think You’re Funny, the Daily Telegraph Open Mic Awards,

the BBC New Comedy Awards and the City Life North West Comedian of the Year Award – which he won.

His first TV appearance was on RTE topical comedy show The Panel and he went on to the popular Channel 4 show 8 Out of 10 Cats. What really elevated him in the public consciousness and boosted his career, though, was an appearance on BBC’s Live at the Apollo comedy series when national audiences really began to warm to the likely lad from Liverpool.

Unlike many comedians, John Bishop is also a talented writer, presenter and actor. In 2009, he started his own TV show on LFC TV called John Bishop Meets …. where he interviewed former Liverpool footballers.

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW In 2010, he was a celebrity team captain on What Do Kids Know? on Watch TV and also appeared on BBC’s Mock the Week and Radio 4’s Act Your Age. Revealing his acting talents for the first time, he appeared in two series of Skins and in 2010 was in Ken Loach’s film Route Irish, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival.

Quick-witted John has appeared as a regular panellist on Sky 1’s A League of Their Own and been a panellist on BBC’s Have I Got News For You. He also wrote and presented the BBC One series John Bishop’s Britain.

Since he first broke through into the professional comedy field, John has seldom been off TV screens or radio prorammes. He’s been on Desert Island Discs, appeared in genealogy series Who Do You Think You Are? and has been the presenter of choice for various one-off programmes.

Although he has notched up plenty of major successes and showcased his talents in a variety of ways, John Bishop remains grounded. And he is keen to keep his family grounded, too.

He recently revealed to The Mirror his advice to his sons: “When you grow up, try to be a good man. “I don’t want them thinking money is more important than people. I hate the idea that ambition needs to be more important than reality. You can end up at the top of the tree and be on your own. I don’t think that’s worth it.” And with that philosophy, it’s clear that John Bishop, his warm personality and his pleasantly cheesy grin, will be around for a very long time.

His easily identifiable thick Scouse accent lends itself to voiceovers but he is actually a multi-talented man with a modest streak and had his own autobiography How Did All This Happen? published in 2013.

He hosted the Royal Variety Performance that same year and in 2014 appeared in A Night In with Olly Murs. In 2015, he presented his own variety show on BBC One called The John Bishop Show.

Early last year, he took part in the BBC series Stargazing Live, from the European Astronaut Centre, following Tim Peake’s astronaut training programme – right down to a simulated spacewalk underwater.

Last year, he also started the notoriously difficult task of presenting his own chat show on W, formerly Watch TV, John Bishop: In Conversation With ….

Here, he showed his likeability and easygoing chatty style with James Corden, Charlotte Church and Lenny Henry. The second series, which started in March this year, featured Lindsay Lohan, Russell Brand, Louise Redknapp and Jason Manford among the guests.

This year, he also surprised TV viewers by appearing in the suspense drama Fearless where he offered an absorbing professional acting performance.

He is currently on a warm-up tour for his Winging It tour which takes place later in the year and which has shows from Brighton to Belfast and many places in between - no doubt pleasing his many fans around the country.

* For more details about John Bishop’s 2017 touring go to www.johnbishoponline.com/ WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

| 13

Simple Ways To Update Your Home WHEN it comes to updating your home and changing the décor and furnishings we tend to view it as stepping into a major minefield.

“People also buy for how these items look and if they’re on trend and don’t think about whether they will suit their purpose and fit in with their lifestyle."

How can we alter our rooms without spending a fortune? What are the latest design trends and will they be suitable for our house or apartment? How can I really bring a fresh look to rooms easily and without major disruption?

“You wouldn’t buy a cream carpet if you had four children, two dogs and lived on a farm, or a large corner sofa and lived in a tiny high-rise apartment, would you?”

At this point, it’s worth taking a deep breath and doing some research. It’s also important to ensure that any new look to your home is something that you’re going to be happy with every single day.

“Don’t panic!” is the advice from interior design consultant Vicky Callan. She regularly deals with people revamping rooms – and sometimes fixing mistakes they have made – and suggests a cool head when it comes to making changes at home.

First of all, Vicky points to mistakes that people often make when they upgrade rooms and change furniture, furnishings and décor. “One of the most common is not measuring items of furniture, TVs, beds and especially sofas,” she states.

14 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Another mistake is painting a wall in a colour you have seen in a magazine or on TV “and realising it looks totally different in your own home and doesn’t work with the lighting or wall texture.”

Vicky also warns against taking on complex DIY projects, thinking that you’re an expert. “If you see something like creating shelves on TV, Facebook or Pinterest and then just go ahead and try it, it may well not work out,” she states.

“Leave it to the professionals.”

However, there are many areas in the home you can tackle for yourself that will transform your rooms and enhance daily living.

A new FRONT DOOR can make a major difference to your home. It’s not only an important part of the outside look of your property but is also the welcoming

gateway to your home. A fresh coat of paint might suffice to fresh up your door but it may be worth investing in a new one, especially one with glass to allow in more light. Consult a local supplier with a good reputation and get advice on what will work in your home.

HALLWAYS can soon become dark places unless you work to maximise every bit of light. So, opt for very light wallpaper or paint and use mirrors to open up even the most cramped hall.

In a small hall, try to avoid cluttering it up with too much furniture. Go for wall hooks rather than a hallstand and a built-in cupboard for shoes and wellies rather than a freestanding one. Ditch old carpets and choose something fresh and practical like a wood or smart vinyl flooring. You’ll be surprised at the designs and colours available in the latest floor coverings so it’s worth consulting a local flooring expert.

Be objective about your LOUNGE or living-room. This is somewhere you will probably use a large part of the time so you want it to look and be comfortable and inviting.You may want to upgrade furniture or invest in a new suite. Vicky suggests keeping colours light and airy “but add a contrast colour to occasional furniture with pictures and cushions.”

HOME Texture is important in fabrics for sofas and also textured rugs.

Made-to-order furniture and lighting are also now much more accessible through independent businesses for homeowners to find and commission.

KITCHENS can gain a brighter look with painted walls or by investing in new items like a kettle or storage jars. Continue a new colour scheme with a piece of suitable artwork on the wall and new floor covering in something durable but attractive.

If you can’t afford a new kitchen currently, why not change doors on your units or opt for new work surfaces? It’s surprising what a big difference that can make to a kitchen. Treat yourself to professionally measured and made curtains or blinds here, and make the window into a real feature.

Use the room’s features to their best advantage. “If you have a bay window, for example, make the most of it and use it as a feature, moving curtains back into the wall, letting more light in. Floor to ceiling curtains will give the room height,” adds Vicky.

Cushions and throws in different textures “keep things interesting,” she says, “and mirrors will reflect light into the room and give the illusion of space.”

If you want to be bang up-to-date with your décor, Vicky states that a bright, refreshing green called Greenery is the 2017 Pantone Colour of the Year. The industrial look is also still on trend.

“Mixing patterns in fabrics like patchwork effects for cushions and bed throws is also very popular, along with lots of designs with butterflies.”

Golden Days

The current trend for BATHROOMS is still to go for pristine white suites. But you can add your signature touches through tiles or painting doors or walls in a clean, sharp shade. Take this new colour through into towels and even clever ornaments, strategically placed. Investing in a new mirror will also give your bathroom a fresh and appealing look.

We spend a large part of our lives in our BEDROOMS so it’s definitely worth getting everything just right here. Vicky advises buying new sheets as “what you use to cover your bed will set the room. Keep it simple – go for fresh white or cream sheets and up-to-date cushions or even change your headboard.

“One of my favourite modern additions to any bedroom is an upholstered headboard,” insists Vicky. “It’s just the go-to piece.” Change bedside lamps and add a feature light – “a chandelier is perfect,” she add. “And re-position your bed if you can and make a new feature wall with wallpaper.”

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| 15

A colour fence without paint?

A new type of fencing is now available to residents of Macclesfield, Congelton, Poynton and surrounding areas. Imagine not having to patch, repair, or paint your garden fence ever again. Chris Woodhouse from Colourfence is now making that possible.

This is great news for homeowners who have become tired of the costly, time-consuming and never-ending upkeep involved in timber fencing.

The solution is Colourfence - made from Colorbond steel, one of the most advanced steel Products in the world. Colourfence features an anticorrosive coating meaning that it is guaranteed not to rust. Furthermore, Colourfence is strong and will withstand winds of up to 130 mph. Chris explains that his company is so confident in their products that they guarantee them for 25 years.

Colourfence have been providing beautiful, low maintenance fencing in gardens across the UK for 14 years now. With proven results and thousands of happy customers it is easy to see why the business continues to grow. The great news is that it is now available locally.

Colourfence is truly the best solution for garden fencing. For the price of a comparable timber quality fence, residents are now able to have a fence that will be installed professionally, will stay in place no matter what, and requires no more work than the occasional hose down to keep it looking good as new. It’s time to put down the paint brush, creosote and wood stain, because you will not need to use them ever again.

Chris explains that Colourfence has an added advantage for the neighbours. ‘Traditional timber fencing sees one neighbour ending up with the ‘bad side’ of the fence. This isn’t the case with Colourfence – both sides are identical. We are seeing a lot of customers share the cost of their fence with their neighbours who are happy to do so, knowing that their side of the fence will look the same.’

All surveys and installations are handled by Chris himself. He and his team provide a professional, honest and reliable service.

The Colourfence business model is built upon ethical trading. As Chris explains his company has a no pressure promise when it comes to selling. ‘We never use any hard sell tactics, we simply arrange a friendly, no obligation meeting with customers and discuss their fencing requirements. The benefit of having such a great product range is that they ‘sell themselves’.

For your free Good Fence Guide and to arrange a measure and quote contact Chris Woodhouse

chris.woodhouse@colourfence.co.uk or 07970 559321

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FOOD & DRINK

Anjum Anand's

'I Love India' Steamed Nepalese meat momos Momos are a Nepalese dumpling similar to a Chinese one, but made with Nepalese/Indian ingredients.

Calcutta is full of momo houses and, whenever I go, I have to eat in them at least once. You are given a menu full of options, steamed and pan-fried and stuffed with as many fillings as the chef can imagine, everything from mutton to vegetables – even paneer. The traditional dipping sauce is fiery and tomato-ey, but I often mix some finely chopped ginger, garlic and green chillies into soy sauce and that normally hits the spot without much fuss. Momos are easy to make, fun and really satisfying.

The dough can be made in advance, but will soften as it sits. You can form the momos just before your friends arrive and have the steamer ready and the kettle boiling so, when your friends are settling in, all you need to do is light the fl­ame.

Makes 24 Mix together all the ingredients for the filling. (You can fry a little of it to test the seasoning, if you like.) Cover and leave this one to rest for 1 hour in the fridge.

For the dough, mix the flour and salt together in a large bowl and add the water slowly, mixing well to create a medium-stiff dough. Knead well and add a little more water if the dough splits. Cover with a damp dish towel, or wrap in cling film (plastic wrap), and leave to rest for 20 minutes.

Take out the dough and knead well again. Roll it into 2 long sausage shapes about 2cm in diameter. Mark the halfway point with a knife and then further mark each half into 6 sections, giving you 24 equal pieces.

Cut one sausage of dough at a time, covering the remainder each time to prevent the rest drying out. Roll each piece out thinly, on a lightly floured surface, into a 7.5cm circle about 1mm thick.

Place 1½–2 tsp of the filling into the centre of each skin.

I hold the momo in my left hand with my thumb on the stuffing. With my right hand I seal the tops together, folding a little as I go. My thumb from the left hand presses the filling down to make sure there is none in the sealed edges. Basically, you need to enclose the filling in the dough without any tears; you can do it any way which feels easy.

Oil the surface of a steamer basket, or line with greaseproof paper. Arrange the momos on the oiled surface as you make them, leaving some space between them as they expand a little. Cover and steam on a rolling boil for 11–13 minutes. Serve immediately.

Ingredients: For the filling 250g (9oz) minced (ground) pork, lamb or chicken thigh 10g (1⁄2 packed cup) coriander (cilantro) stalks and leaves, finely chopped handful of green peas, defrosted (optional) 1⁄4 small red onion, finely chopped 20g (1⁄6 cup) spring onions (scallions), finely chopped 1⁄2–1 tsp green chillies (chiles), finely chopped 3 large garlic cloves, finely grated or finely chopped 15g (1 tbsp) finely chopped root ginger (peeled weight) 3⁄4 tsp garam masala (fresh if possible).

2 tsp dark soy sauce 1⁄4 tsp freshly ground black pepper 2 good pinches of salt vegetable oil, for the steamer basket (optional) For the dough 100g (3⁄4 cup) plain (all-purpose) flour, plus more to dust good pinch of salt 5 tbsp cold water, plus more to seal

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FOOD & DRINK

Sindhi-style grilled fish Ingredients: 1⁄2 onion, chopped 2 large garlic cloves, finely grated 7g (1⁄2 tbsp) finely grated root ginger (peeled weight) 1 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp ground cumin 1⁄3 tsp garam masala (fresh if possible) 1⁄4 tsp ground turmeric 1 rounded tbsp Greek yogurt 1 tomato, chopped small handful of coriander (cilantro), to serve small Indian green finger chilli (chile), finely chopped salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1 medium gurnard, sea bream or other whole fish, butterflied by the fishmonger, or a fish steak, or even a thick fish fillet

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“Sindhi” refers to a group of people who had to leave their home town of Sindh in Pakistan upon the partition of India.

Growing up, many of my Indian friends were Sindhi, so I had many occasions to eat their food. Like all Indians, they love good food but they also love to entertain – and do so very well. Their tables are always laden with more than a handful of dishes, all a little different from other regional food. Yet this koak palla dish is one I have missed and only just learned about recently.

The Sindhi people use palla fish, an oily, meaty river fish with thick flesh. I like butterflied whole fish and have tried it with gurnard and sea bream, but also with halibut steaks. I have written the recipe for one fish so you can scale it up for however many you want to cook. Here I have used fillets of fish which are a good option for guests who might feel a little squeamish with whole fish and fish bones. Serves 1–2 If you have a fan-assisted grill (broiler) function on your oven, turn it on fairly high, around 220°C/425°F/gas mark 7.

Otherwise, preheat the oven and turn on the grill at the same time or – if you can’t do that in your oven – preheat your oven to as high as it will go.

Pulse-blend together the onion, garlic, ginger, spices, yogurt and three- quarters of the tomatoes to a very coarse paste.

Stir in the coriander, chilli and remaining tomatoes. Season well with salt and pepper.

Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan over a high heat.

Season the flesh side of the fish. Once hot, add the fish, flesh side down: it will spit. Cook for 1–2 minutes or until lightly golden. Take off the heat and flip on to a baking sheet or some foil, flesh side up.

Meanwhile, in the same pan, add the blended ingredients and stir-fry over a high heat for 3–5 minutes or until the paste releases oil back into the pan. It should taste harmonious.

Adjust the seasoning and heat to your own liking. Top the fish evenly with the paste. Place on the upper shelf of the oven, under the grill if possible, and cook for 6–7 minutes or until the topping is dried and has lightly browned in places.

After about 6 minutes, l like to sprinkle with the optional breadcrumbs (see below). Serve hot.

Optional crispy topping

I like to tear up some white bread (one-quarter of a slice for 1 fish) into 5mm (1⁄4in) pieces, add a little olive oil (if you want to be more fancy, you can make a coriander oil by whizzing coriander in it) and toss. Add this to the top of the fish 30–40 seconds before taking the fish out.

Sticky saffron dumplings INGREDIENTS Makes 18 (serves 1–2 per person) For the dumplings: 400ml (12⁄3 cups) whole milk powder (measure it in a measuring cup), plus more if needed 100g (1⁄2 cup) plain (all-purpose) flour 2⁄3 tsp baking powder 2 tbsp ghee, plus more to form the dumplings 5 tbsp plain yogurt 5 tbsp whole milk vegetable oil, to deep-fry sliced pistachios, to serve (optional) For the syrup: 450g (scant 2 cups) granulated sugar 650ml (22⁄3 cups) water 2 good pinches of saffron threads 1⁄2–1 tsp rose water, depending on strength

India has a whole genre of sweet desserts which were once made in the home, but are now mostly made by specialized halvaies – Indian pâtissiers. Gulab jamun are one of India’s favourites: little syrupy doughnuts made from thickened milk instead of flour and soaked in sugar syrup rather than stuffed with jam or sweetened in the batter. I use dry milk powder which I rehydrate, not the traditional thickened, solidified milk, as that takes too long and needs too much attention to make. There are only two tricks to getting these doughnuts right: the right consistency of dough (not too soft, not too hard); and frying them over a very low heat so they cook all the way to the centre, stirring the oil almost continuously so they brown evenly. I like them warm as they will be softer, and you can reheat them in their syrup, but you can equally eat them cold. Serve as they are, or with a little ice cream.

Mix together the dry ingredients for the dumplings. Spoon in the ghee, yogurt and milk. Mix well with your hands to bring the dough together; it will be moist. Set aside.

For the syrup, heat the sugar, water and saffron together in a saucepan, stirring to help the sugar dissolve. Once boiling, simmer for around 3–4 minutes, then turn off the heat. Add the rose water, using the smaller amount first and tasting until you have a strength you prefer.

Meanwhile, pour 8–10cm (3–4in) of oil into a medium-large karahi, wok or wide saucepan. Heat gently.

Divide the dough in half. Wet some kitchen paper and place on top of the dough you aren’t working with. Grease your palms well with ghee, take half the dough and form it into 9 small balls; I like to make them slightly oval rather than round, but you can shape them as you like. The surfaces should be smooth and crack-free. (If the dough is too soft to shape, add a little milk powder.) Repeat to make and shape the remaining dumplings.

To check if the oil is ready, put a tiny pinch of the dough into the oil.

It should only sizzle very slightly. When it is ready, add the balls in batches so as not to crowd the pan, stirring the oil as you put them in. Cook over a gentle heat, stirring and turning them very often for even browning, they should take 15–17 minutes per batch to reach a lovely golden brown.

Once done, take them out with a slotted spoon and place straight into the syrup. Repeat with the next batch.

Cover and leave to soak for 2 hours, or overnight, in the fridge. They should last 10 days or more. Serve as they are, or sprinkle them with sliced pistachios.

I Love India by Anjum Anand (Quadrille, £20) Photography © Martin Poole

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| 21

Plan for your future… …To enjoy today!

When you have spent all your life taking care of your loved ones the last thing you want to worry about is leaving them in financial difficulties.

Our resident Wills expert, Christine Thornley from Gorvins Solicitors, recently spoke to us to explain how their bespoke over 50’s packages are designed to meet the demands and needs of people aged 50 + who want to protect themselves and their loved ones during their lifetime and when they die.

22 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

There are many ways you can plan for the future for you and your family and we often get asked ‘What are my options to help my family?’ ‘How can I ensure my loved ones are protected?’ and ‘Is it simple to do?’

The answer is yes and by using a professional solicitor you can rest assured you have planned properly for your and their futures.

So what are your options? ۥ Making a Will: the staple to any effective future planning. Every person with assets and/or family should have a valid Will yet a staggering 2/3 people have still not made one.

A Will is a powerful, legal document enabling you to let those who you

Protecting Investment & love and care about benefit from your Declaration of Trust estate. It also allows you to build trustsparents into it to children, Some andsafeguard grandparents are very grandchildren others and can keen to help theirand children make their way belife, used minimise inheritance in not to least to get them out of the tax charges. family home before they celebrate their 40th birthday! However, not everyone is in

• Power of Attorney: is arguably a position where they are able to just give the most important document you will away thousands of pounds. For some, they ever make. The lifeblood of planning are happy to provide a financial contribution for your future. A power of attorney so long as this is treated as an investment, will not only give you peace of mind which they can get back if they need the that, should anything happen to you, cash in the or perhaps once their you will befuture, looked after and your offspring arebe better off with financially no affairs will dealt but itand also longer need assistance.

When it comes to removes some of the stress from your property, wayisofalready doing this is adding family atone what a difficult time.name to the title register for the house your that is being purchased by the offspring.

Think of a Power of Attorney as the most important document Parents have to beinsurance aware, however, if they you can have; most people don’t already own a property, then adding your realise that if you lose the ability to name to the title register of another home make financial or welfare decisions will mean that you incur the additional 3% for yourself, due to a disease such as of Stamp Duty Land Tax charge, potentially dementia or Alzheimers, your partner

adding thousands of pounds to your

having it paid back in the future.

conveyancing or family do bill. not automatically have

job to make the process easy and straightforward.

You should however bear in mind that, if Yes, it may of take a is bitput ofinplanning a declaration trust place, thenow!

Yes, you think youascan put off monies willmay not be treated a gift to ityour until a later date!

And Yes, you may children, and therefore will not be a ‘PET’ think it will be upsetting to discuss for inheritance tax planning purposes. This such issues with your family, but what is because you have not given the monies can be done in a matter of hours now, away – they are effectively just on loan – and can save you time, effort and stress they still belong to you, so the value of your later down the line. estate will not be reduced for inheritance tax With 2017 upon us, now is the time purposes. to plan for your future so that you can enjoy and make the most of today with your family, friends and loved ones.

the right to make decisions on your behalf.aIfDeclaration you fail toofplan you Making Trustahead is a way to will have nointerest say atinall who helps protect your theinproperty, without with your finances welfare. incurring additional taxand charges, and it can FRIENDS, haveFAMILY a two-foldMEMBERS, benefit: SPOUSES, PARTNERS AND CIVIL PARTNERS ARE ALL returned to the donor when the property EXAMPLES OF INDIVIDUALS is sold.

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1. The sum of money provided will be

2. is safeguarded from making • Money Inheritance Tax Planning: the its

way to way the other partner if it was Tax sensible to plan.

Inheritance originally used to help the planning can seem likea acouple long,onto drawn and but theiritrelationship outmarket process, really doesn’t subsequently down. have to be. By breaks speaking to a solicitor about the exemptions and reliefs that are available, easilyand save A Declaration of you Trustcan is flexible a you and your family time and money. great way to protect your money which Of course there are other to also has additional benefits asways mentioned plan for the future including trusts above. Helping your children onto the for children and other vulnerable property ladder doesn’t have to be a one relatives, funeral plans and way street out of your bank account. It’s succession planning and it is our more than possible to see this money as

Gorvins & Estate Planning discuss Power call of ToTospeak toaTasoula Attorney or any aspect 0161 930 5117 or e-mailof lifetime planning contact actonit@gorvins.com Christine Thornley on

0161 930 e-mail We will give you5117; the precise legal

willsteam@gorvins.com advice you need to be able to protect or money visit our your and website order your estate as www.gorvins.com efficiently and effectively as possible.

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Making a Will

Lasting Power of Attorney

Court of Protection

Trusts

Deputyships

Inheritance Tax

Estate Administration

Elderly Care

Probate

Planning for your future and ensuring your family are protected in the way you want is simple and hassle free with our specialist team of qualified solicitors.

Chat with us to discuss your needs; whether it’s here at our offices or in the comfort of your own home, we can help you with:

•P

L ANNING F

FUTURE

•

O

UR

• OR

•Y

ACT O N

IT

Act On It Today and contact us on 0161 930 5117 or e-mail actonit@gorvins.com www.gorvins.com/act-on-it

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Do something wonderful - remember St Ann’s in your Wil St Ann’s Hospice is a charity providing specialist palliative care, free of charge, to people living with or affected by life-limiting illnesses across Greater Manchester. Many people are surprised to learn that we’re a charity, assuming that hospices are part of the NHS. We only receive just over a third of our income from the NHS and we rely heavily on fundraising, donations and legacies to make up the rest.

It costs us around £9 million each year to provide all of our services, and we just couldn’t continue without the incredible support of people like you.

It’s human nature to put off getting your paperwork in order – but it’s so easy and just think about the benefits. If you die before you make a Will, it can make things very difficult and costly for your family. Getting things sorted out now can make things easier for them and you can ensure your money and possessions go to those people you love. By leaving a gift in your Will, big or small, to St Ann’s you’ll also be helping others and leaving a lasting reminder of your support for our work.

Elli Oliver’s partner was a patient at St Ann’s Hospice.

Here is Elli’s story…

When Malcolm, my soul-mate and partner of 25 years, was diagnosed with cancer, it was one of the most difficult times I have ever experienced.

But going into St Ann’s was the best decision we could have made. They provided amazing care for Malc, and looked after me too. The staff truly went the extra mile when my Malc proposed to me, and they helped us get married!

Six days after our wedding, Malc died. I won’t lie and say it has been easy to come to terms with, but it was eased by the compassion shown to me by the staff at St Ann’s. I owe them a real debt of gratitude that I feel I’ll never repay. Their care and warmth is genuine, and they helped make the last few days my late husband and I shared some of the most special days of my life.

St Ann’s Will Week is 12th – 16th March 2018

Make your Will during Will Week and not only will you get peace of mind, you’ll also be supporting an amazing local charity. Local solicitors are giving up their time to support St Ann’s, and are asking you to give a donation equal to their normal charges for making a Will.

It’s so easy…

• Contact us on 0161 498 2099 or legacies@sah.org.uk. We’ll send you a pack, which includes a list of participating solicitors in your local area.

• Contact your chosen solicitor to make your appointment.

• Your solicitor will draft your Will or make amendments to an existing Will. There’s no obligation to leave a gift to St Ann’s, but if you’d like to do so, they can include this for you.

• Contained in your Will Week pack is a donation envelope. Please give it to your solicitor at your appointment and they’ll pass your donation directly to us.

Registered charity number 258085

Leaving a legacy – what difference can you make?

When thinking about a legacy left in a Will, we often think about huge sums of money left to family members or charities. But a legacy refers to a gift of any size, and we’re so grateful for every single one – they all make a real difference to our patients and their loved ones.

Here are some examples of the impact a gift in a Wil can have: £1,000 will pay for our

community team to visit 5 patients, supporting people who may prefer to be cared for at home.*

£2,500 will pay for 5

days of specialist palliative care for one of our inpatients and their loved ones.

£3,600

will pay for a 12 week day therapy programme for one of our outpatients, providing care as well as companionship.

£7,300 will pay for 365

complementary therapy sessions, helping patients and their carers relax.

£16,000 will pay to run all our hospice services for a day.

*Home services available in some areas

Fri on M m p n e 0 3 Op 5: 8am

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OUT & ABOUT

A guide to the amazing events around the region in 2017/18

Grease and the 70’s. This is the ultimate nostalgia night that guarantees to get you dancing in the aisles!

The Plaza, Mersey Square, Stockport, Cheshire. SK1 1SP. www.manchestertheatres.com Every weekend in December: 2nd & 3rd, 9th & 10th, 16th & 17th

Santa Cruises at Anderton Come and join Santa this December at the Anderton Boat Lift for a seasonal cruise along the River Weaver Navigation.

With festive stories and songs to sing, every child will receive a Christmas gift from Santa Claus!

Anderton Boat Lift, Lift Lane, Anderton, Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 5UB Adults £5.95, Children £7.95 Tel: 01606 786777 1 Dec 2017 - 30 Dec 2017

Christmas at Dunham Massey

Saturday 4 November 2017 - Time: 17:00

Fireworks Spectacular at City Airport (Manchester Barton) Spectacular firework display and crackling bonfire make Guy Fawkes at City Airport one of the most magical events of the year. The fun kicks off at 5pm with the firework spectacular just after 7pm, with live music, food, drink, children's funfair rides and lots more.

Advance Tickets – £3.50 Children (aged 3-16), £5.50 City Airport (Manchester Barton) Liverpool Road, Eccles, Salford M30 7SA Saturday 4th November - 17:30 - 21:00

Poynton & Hazel Grove Bonfire & Fireworks A community fun filled night, including a massive bonfire (of course), 2 fireworks display - 7pm Junior Display and 8pm Main Display with all the expected big bangs. There is also a live music stage, fairground, food, licenses bar, and a family viewing area. Tickets are available from Mates DIY, The Kabin, In Gear, local schools (who retain 25% of the ticket price for their funds), and online!

Price: £4.50 - £25 Poynton Park, Stockport, SK12 1BU Saturday 18th November 2017

DANCING QUEEN

The magical, after-dark, illuminated trail.

Discover a new Christmas light trail in Manchester from 1 – 30 December 2017. Brought to you by leading events producers Raymond Gubbay, in partnership with the National Trust, Dunham Massey will, for the very first time, be transformed into a winter wonderland with a magical after-dark illuminated trail.

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Dancing Queen ‘The Concert’ is an action packed party show featuring over 2 hours of the greatest hits from Abba,

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OUT & ABOUT It's beginning to look at lot like Christmas when the trees and formal gardens of Dunham Massey are playfully lit and all aglow. There is something for everyone at this festive time of year as the one mile sparkling path winds its way through the historic Dunham Massey woodland.

THE NORTH WEST’S

....

Bolton’s Award Winning Market Bolton market has over 200 stalls including a bustling food court serving food from all over the world, cafés complement our food offer, and we even have a licensed bar.

Dunham Massey, Woodhouse Lane, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA14 4SJ Sunday 3rd to Wednesday 6th December 2017

FAULTY TOWERS THE CHRISTMAS DINING EXPERIENCE Enter the world of the snobbish and manic Basil, his domineering wife Sybil and their hopeless languagechallenged waiter Manuel. Please note that, as Faulty Towers includes a delicious festive Christmas meal, there is no need to reserve a restaurant table during the booking process.

The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ www.manchestertheatres.com Sunday 3rd December 2017

You can buy everything from fresh fish, meat and game, locally sourced and exotic fruit and vegetables with speciality stalls selling deli meats and a huge selection of cheeses, plus there is a whole host of traditional stalls selling everything from furniture to flowers, bedding to broomsticks and much more.

Well worth a visit!

Bolton Market has it all.

Opening Times; Open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday 9am-5pm.

How To Find Us Bolton Market, Ashburner Street, Bolton BL1 1TQ. Contact: 01204 336825 Email: bolton.markets@bolton.gov.uk

Visit our website for a list of special events and activities that we are running at the Market.

www.bolton.gov.uk

NABMA

the voice of markets

WINNER BEST FOOD market 2017

“For Bolton’s Food & Drink Festival

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DICKENSIAN CHRISTMAS CRIME It's a murder mystery that can only be solved by travelling to the past, present and future so it's a good job that you've got the ghost of Christmas Crimes on hand to help you!

The Plaza, Mersey Square, Stockport, Cheshire. SK1 1SP. www.manchestertheatres.com Saturday 9th December 2017 to Monday 1st January 2018

WINTER WONDERLAND Winter Wonderland returns to Manchester. Each session lasts 4 hours and include all rides, the Christmas Circus and a Meet & Greet with Santa!

EventCity Phoenix Way, Stretford, Manchester M41 7TB www.manchestertheatres.com

Tuesday 16th to Sunday 28th January 2018

SHREK THE MUSICAL Based on the story and characters from the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks Animation film, this hilarious and spectacular production turns the world of fairytales upside down in an allsinging, all-dancing, must-see musical comedy.

Palace Theatre, Oxford Street, Manchester. M1 6FT www.manchestertheatres.com 25th - 27th January 2018

Manchester Beer & Cider Festival 2018 The Manchester Beer and Cider Festival returns to Manchester Central Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th January 2018

STRICTLY COME DANCING Pure dancing pleasure awaits as this supersized Strictly Live extravaganza comes to Manchester Arena. The Strictly Live Tour delivers escapist entertainment on a breathtaking scale.

Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1AR www.manchestertheatres.com Friday 2nd February 2018

JASON MANFORD He’s back! It’s been a busy few years for Jason since his last smash-hit stand up show but fans of his Absolute Radio show will know this nationally acclaimed comedian hasn’t changed a bit.

The Plaza, Mersey Square, Stockport, Cheshire. SK1 1SP. www.manchestertheatres.com Sunday 4th February 2018

THE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW 2018 Celebrating the World’s Greatest Guitarists - Anthem after anthem, riff after riff, solo after solo – ‘The Classic Rock Show’ takes you on a musical journey through two and a half hours of foot-stomping fun.

The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ www.manchestertheatres.com/thelowry 19 Feb 2018 - 24 Feb 2018

Thriller Live Direct from London’s West End, where it’s in its record breaking 9th year, Thriller Live is a spectacular concert created to celebrate the career of the world’s greatest entertainer.

all-singing, all-dancing, must-see musical comedy.

Palace Theatre, Oxford Street, Manchester. M1 6FT www.manchestertheatres.com Thursday 1st March 2018

PAUL WELLER Paul Weller returns to Manchester Arena next year to celebrate the 40th anniversary of his first album release ‘In The City’ and for his 13th album release ‘A Kind Revolution’

Already seen by over 4 million people in over 30 countries, Thriller Live continues to moonwalk around the world, taking you on a visual, audio and electrifying journey through the magic of Michael’s 40 year musical history.

Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1AR www.manchestertheatres.com

Experience over two hours of non-stop hits from pop to rock, soul to disco in a show that pays homage Jackson’s legendary live performances and innovative dance moves executed with flair, precision and passion in a show that you will never forget.

Tuesday 6th to Thursday 8th March 2018

Expect your favourite songs delivered by an exceptionally talented cast and band, including: I Want You Back, ABC, Smooth Criminal, Beat It, Billie Jean plus many more!

Palace Theatre, Oxford Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 6FT www.manchestertheatres.com Tuesday 20th February 2018

THE X FACTOR LIVE TOUR 2018 The X Factor Live Tour is returning to Manchester for 2018 and for the first time ever the audience will choose their own winner! The X Factor Live Tour has thrilled more than three million people since it began 13 years ago, making it one of the UK’s most successful annual arena tours.

Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1AR www.manchestertheatres.com Sunday 25th February 2018

ED BYRNE: SPOILER ALERT Ed says: "I originally intended to call the show, “I’ll Millennial You in a Minute”, but my promoter considered the title, “off-puttingly baffling”. That’s my own chainsaw in the photo, by the way."

OPERA NORTH'S MADAMA BUTTERFLY Madama Butterfly is a tender story of innocent love crushed amidst two utterly different cultures, which resonates as strongly as ever in today’s world.

The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ www.manchestertheatres.com/thelowry Saturday 24th March 2018

SHOWADDYWADDY ‘The Greatest Rock & Roll Band In The World’ is a bold statement but Showaddywaddy has lived up to that title for the last 4 decades!

ROB WILSON • MIXED MEDIA ART

WINTER SHOW AND OPEN STUDIO

SAT 4TH & SUN 5TH NOVEMBER 2017 10AM-5PM (Bonfire weekend) STUDIO OPEN EVERY FRIDAY UP TO CHRISTMAS!

The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ www.manchestertheatres.com/thelowry Tuesday 16th to Sunday 28th January 2018

SHREK THE MUSICAL Based on the story and characters from the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks Animation film, this hilarious and spectacular production turns the world of fairytales upside down in an

at Lockside Mill, St. Martins Road, Marple, SK6 7BZ A special opportunity to view Rob’s latest artwork and prints and to meet the artist in his working studio. www.robwilsonart.co.uk

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Doreen goes home again thanks to PossAbilities Homeshare – A Big Lottery funded scheme A Heywood lady was able to leave nursing care and get back to the home she loves thanks to a scheme which brings together people who need a bit of support with those who need a place to live.

Doreen Fairclough 79 from Heywood and Anouck Truffaux 23 from Paris are a match for PossAbilities Homeshare. In return for helping Doreen out with a few household chores, Anouck gets a room in Doreen’s home whilst she spends a year perfecting her English, before continuing her studies in Law. After spending months in a care home following a fall, all Doreen wanted was to go home. Having Anouck around to help with the cooking was just what she needed to help her to get back to her normal life.

The Plaza, Mersey Square, Stockport, Cheshire.

SK1 1SP. www.manchestertheatres.com Wednesday 4th April 2018

RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC Rumours of Fleetwood Mac, the world’s finest tribute to Fleetwood Mac, returns to the stage in 2018 with a brand new show celebrating 40 years of the iconic Rumours album.

The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ www.manchestertheatres.com Friday 13th to Sunday 15th April 2018

FAST & FURIOUS LIVE

It’s a life that Anouck is very quickly learning a lot about. She says “I enjoyed going to Bingo with Doreen, but need more practice with the numbers as they are called very quickly. I also took Doreen to the singing group at Heywood library for the first time. We had no idea that we would have to sing, but once I settled in I really enjoyed it”.

The action and excitement from one of the most popular and enduring film series of all-time will come to life in this groundbreaking live-arena tour. The adrenaline-fueled, two-hour show is set to be the most spectacular live arena production ever produced!

Doreen is revelling in her new lifestyle “It’s lovely to finally be home in my comfy bed. I’m enjoying the food that Anouck makes me, I’m even eating French food and liking it. We loved going to Bingo and I had to explain to Anouck that 1 and 6 was 16!”.

Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1AR www.manchestertheatres.com

For PossAbilities Homeshare team this is the first of many ‘matches’ that they will be making. Loneliness can have the same effect on health as smoking fifteen cigarettes a day and often people with a spare room could do with just a little support.

If you have a spare room and would welcome some support or you need a place to live and would be willing to give some social support in return, you can contact the Homeshare Team at homeshare@possabilities.org.uk or call 01706 626747.

Thursday 24th to Sunday 27th May 2018

ED SHEERAN Following on from his headline performance at Glastonbury Festical, Ed Sheeran is set to embark on a huge stadium tour next summer. Ed has had many hits including "The A Team", "You Need Me, I Don't Need You", "Sing" and so much more.

Etihad Stadium Ashton New Rd, Manchester M11 3FF www.manchestertheatres.com Saturday 26th May 2018

HARLEM GLOBETROTTER The world famous Harlem Globetrotters, featuring some of the most electrifying athletes on the planet, will bring their spectacular show to Manchester Arena as part of their 2018 World Tour.

Do you need affordable accommodation?

For only £150 per month you will have a warm, comfortable home, just for sharing a few hours a week of your time.

In return, could you offer help around the house for 10 hours per week with tasks such as cooking, shopping, sharing a meal or a trip to the pub?

Would you like to make a difference to someone’s life?

Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1AR www.manchestertheatres.com

Would life be easier with an extra pair of hands?

Do you have a spare room?

Homeshare is ideal for those who would like a little security, just having someone around the house can be a great comfort.

Saturday 16th June 2018

BILLY JOEL - ONLY UK DATE!

Would life be better with some extra help with tasks such as shopping, gardening or a trip to the pub?

Legendary musician Billy Joel is set to perform in Manchester at Old Trafford Football Ground on Saturday 16th June 2018.

This marks the first time in Billy Joel’s extraordinary career that he will perform at the stadium and marks his first live performance in the UK since his iconic Wembley Stadium show in 2016.

Would a meal be more enjoyable with someone to share it with?

We could match you with the perfect homesharer!

To find out more about this exciting opportunity contact us on 01706 626747 or email: homeshare@possabilities.org.uk

30 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Homeshare advert.indd 1

Old Trafford Football Club Sir Matt Busby Way, Stretford, Manchester M16 0RA www.manchestertheatres.com

04/08/2017 10:16

RAYMOND GUBBAY presents

CHRISTMAS BRIDGEWATER HALL at the

Thursday 14 December 7.30pm

CHRISTMAS

Sunday 7 January 3.00pm

Sunday 24 December 3.00pm

GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA

CHRISTMAS CAROL SINGALONG

WITH

KATHERINE JENKINS

Wartime chart-toppers & hits from the forties directed by legendary bandleader RAY MCVAY. Tuxedo Junction Moonlight Serenade In the Mood American Patrol String of Pearls

RAISE THE ROOF OF THE BRIDGEWATER HALL Sing your heart out as Jonathan Cohen leads you through a fun-filled jamboree of his most-loved carols and all-time Christmas hits.

Music and songs to start your Christmas celebrations in style.

With special guests The Polka Dot Dolls

The First Nowell Frosty the Snowman Jingle Bells Good King Wenceslas O come, all ye faithful Santa Claus is Coming to Town The Twelve Days of Christmas I Wish It Could be Christmas Everyday

Mark Vincent guest singer Anthony Inglis conductor Manchester Concert Orchestra

Tuesday 19 December 7.30pm

With very special guest Louise Dearman

CLASSIC CAROLS

Manchester Chorale Manchester Concert Orchestra

ALAN TITCHMARSH

Tuesday 26 December 3.00pm

O Holy Night Candlelight Carol In dulci jubilo Joy to the World Fantasia on Christmas Carols A Merry Little Christmas Ave Maria Selection from The Nutcracker Suite Shepherd’s Pipe Carol

Rousing classics with a grand flag waving British finale!

WITH

Alan Titchmarsh presents a joyous assortment of Christmas music and carols.

and CAROLS FOR ALL O little town of Bethlehem Good King Wenceslas Once in royal David’s city God rest ye merry, gentlemen Benedict Nelson baritone Toby Purser conductor Manchester Chorale Manchester Concert Orchestra

Wednesday 20 December 7.30pm

CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Wonderful music, thrilling lights and dazzling indoor fireworks.

Bach Ave Maria Puccini Act 1 finale from La bohème Verdi Brindisi Anderson A Christmas Festiva

LAST NIGHT OF THE

Willcocks Sussex Carol Waldteufel Skater’s Waltz SONGS and CAROLS FOR ALL plus high kicks from The Jingle Belles ® Laura Tebbutt guest singer John Rigby conductor Anna Patalong soprano Nico Darmanin tenor Manchester Chorale Manchester Concert Orchestra

Sunday 14 January 3.00pm

CHRISTMAS PROMS Rossini Thieving Magpie Overture Bizet Duet from The Pearl Fishers Tchaikovsky Waltz from Swan Lake Dukas The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Vivaldi Summer from The Four Seasons

And all your Proms favourites RULE, BRITANNIA! NESSUN DORMA LAND OF HOPE AND GLORY Samuel Sakker tenor James Cleverton baritone Joo Yeon Sir violin John Pryce–Jones conductor Manchester Concert Orchestra

Wednesday 27 December 7.30pm

MUSICALS IN CONCERT LEADING LADIES

Four Leading Ladies bring to life iconic diva showstoppers from the very best of West End and Broadway.

I Dreamed a Dream from Les Miserables As Long as He Needs Me from Oliver!

Defying Gravity from Wicked All that Jazz from Chicago

Adam O Holy Night

performing a tribute to The Andrews Sisters Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree Don’t Fence Me In Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy Mark Porter and Catherine Sykes

LOUISE DEARMAN KERRY ELLIS LINZI HATELEY VICTORIA HAMILTON-BARRITT Richard Balcombe conductor Manchester Concert Orchestra

Thursday 28 December 7.30pm

THE BEST OF JOHN WILLIAMS Nothing can compare to the iconic film scores of John Williams.

HARRY POTTER INDIANA JONES HOOK JAWS STAR WARS SUPERMAN JURASSIC PARK SCHINDLER’S LIST BORN ON THE FOURTH OF JULY CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND

JOHANN STRAUSS GALA

The giddy romance and gilded ballrooms of old Vienna are brought to life by the music of the King of the Waltz and friends.

Audition Aria from Die Fledermaus Vienna City of my Dreams Wine, Women and Song The Blue Danube Waltz Radetsky March plus many more JOHANN STRAUSS DANCERS & ORCHESTRA in glorious costumes of the period John Rigby conductor with Corinne Cowling soprano Nicky Spence tenor

Saturday 24 February 3.00pm

ANTON AND ERIN The nation’s favourite ballroom couple return.

Featuring dazzling new choreography, sparkling costumes and a sensational show band.

Somewhere in Time Cry Me a River Mr Bojangles Downtown This Nearly Was Mine New York, New York Libertango Richard Balcombe conductor Lance Ellington star vocalist Six world class Ensemble Dancers Plus the full 25 piece Manchester Concert Orchestra

THE BRIDGEWATER HALL BOX OFFICE 0161

907 9000

bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Anthony Inglis conductor Manchester Concert Orchestra SEATS AVAILABLE raymondgubbay.co.uk

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HEALTH

Dr Ranjit Gill has been a GP in Stockport for over 20 years.

He is also the Chief Clinical Officer at NHS Stockport Clinical Commissioning Group. The CCG are the local organisation that commissions our local NHS services.

In his article for Over 50s, he is asking us all to get involved in how we think our Health and Social Care services should be delivered over the next few years.

As a GP, I see patients every day. I listen to their concerns and I, alongside my other GP colleagues, are constantly looking for ways to improve the care you and your family receive.

People tell me how much they appreciate the nurses, carers, doctors and other professionals they come into contact with, and they tell me what they feel could be better. My colleagues and I in the NHS do listen, and over the last year or so we’ve been working with patients to trial ways of getting hospitals, local doctors and carers to work much more closely together.

We’re doing this because what we’re hearing from our patients is that they want: • Improved access to GPs and other community medical services.

change this by getting NHS organisations, council services and our third sector to work together more consistently.

This means big changes for the way we all work, and we know making these changes will take time. At recent ‘listening’ events around Stockport, people have also been telling us they want us to make sure that we keep existing services in place until the new ways of working are up and running.

In July this year, Stockport Council and the local NHS, published four plans that show how we would work together.

We’ve been discussing those with people in Stockport for several months, and, based on these plans, our colleagues in Greater Manchester Health and Social Care have provided us with £19m of extra funding to make sure we keep our current services whilst we get our new teams up and running.

In January 2018, the NHS and Stockport Council, will decide whether to adopt the four plans as our combined approach.

If adopted, the combined effect would be to move the focus of health provision from care and treatment in hospital, to care and treatment provided at people’s homes or in the local community.

Before that though, we want to hear everyone’s views on our plans so we can take these into account before we make any decisions.

On Tuesday October 10th 2017, we opened our consultation on this issue.

This consultation will last until the 30th of November 2017.

• Improved care for our most vulnerable people, and ….

• The assurance that out local hospital is available for high quality care for those who really need it.

Some of these trials have simply proved what we know already. We can identify illness earlier and treat it before people get so ill they need to go into hospital. We also know that we can help people recover more quickly and get them back home quicker when they’ve had a stay in hospital.

Some of our more elderly patients – who are most likely to end up in hospital, consistently tell us they only want to go to hospital when absolutely necessary, and, not unsurprisingly, they also want to be out again as quickly as possible.

As an NHS, we are not achieving these outcomes as effectively as we can. Having said that, we know we can

We’ve set out a questionnaire with information about the changes and published lots more information on our website as well as on our Twitter and Facebook pages.

Please tell us what you think by visiting our website at www.stockport-together.co.uk/ consultation or call us on 0161 426 5011 or email us on STOCCG.stockport-together@nhs.net

Whoever you are, please take the opportunity to have a say in how your local NHS services are delivered over the coming years.

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Have your say Public consultation: health and social care

Get involved and tell us your views on health and social care in Stockport by visiting www.stockport-together.co.uk/consultation Throughout October and November 2017, Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council and NHS Stockport Clinical Commissioning Group (on behalf of the Stockport Together partners) will be undertaking a public consultation on whether to formally adopt the health and social care proposals set out

by Stockport Together. Information on this can be found at www.stockport-together. co.uk/business-cases.

After this time, responses will be independently reviewed and a report will be published to inform formal decisions that will be made by the Governing Body of NHS Stockport Clinical Commissioning Group and the Cabinet of Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council in January 2018.

Please tell us your thoughts before the consultation closes on Thursday 30th November 2017.

If you would like this material in another format or any other information, please visit www.stockport-together.co.uk/consultation, call 0161 426 5011 or email STOCCG.stockport-together@nhs.net WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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HEALTH 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.

Choice of Dentures

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 the whole job is done by the same person.

How Long Should Dentures Last?

Quality dentures mean a quality lifestyle The Importance of Dentures The 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

34 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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

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: 1. Quality of dentures.

2. Age of Patient.

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.

Every dentist can make dentures, but not all of them will specialise in denture making.

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.

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.

Have your dentures inspected by a dentist or denturist at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.

Summary

Your Dentures need Attention 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).

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.

1. Clean your dentures daily with a

denture brush and denture cream.

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.

2. Have your dentures inspected

every two years, and re- lined or

ultra-sonically cleaned.

the

5. When you develop deep lines around your mouth.

A service that will make you smile!

Offering Denture Perfection

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.

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.

• • • • •

Emergency Denture Repairs Free Consultations Friendly Personal Service Open Late Ample Parking

GDC (REG) T.W. ELLWOOD Dip CDT RCS (ENG)

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

Where do I go to have a good set of Dentures made?

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| 35

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An obvious rapport exists between people who have chosen to make their home at Dystlegh Grange, and those who warmly and skilfully support people to live a fulfilling life.

You are helped to live as independently as possible, confident that your changing needs will be met in your “own home”.

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For more information please contact us.

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Dystlegh Grange Retirement Living and Care, 40 Jacksons Edge Road, Disley, Stockport, CheshireWWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK SK12 2JL | 37

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