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STOCKPORT, SALE, ALTRINCHAM & EAST CHESHIRE NOVEMBER - JANUARY 2013 EDITION 37

The

Hairy

Dieters

HOW TO LOVE FOOD AND LOSE WEIGHT

Jean Christophe -

Novelli

THE NATION’S FAVOURITE FRENCH CHEF

Russell Grant THE COMEBACK KID

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s

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Outstanding care in a magnificent setting Vibrant village centre - Belong villages offer a range of amenities including bistro, hair and beauty salon, exercise studio, internet café and function rooms.

Expert nursing and dementia care - 24 hour care is delivered in

Visit your nearest Belong village to experience a radically different model of both housing and care.

family sized households by trained and qualified staff.

Actively chosen by older people who want the best for their lives, Belong’s award winning villages enable an active and independent lifestyle, while also being designed to support the needs of the most frail.

An award winning model • UK’s Healthcare Design Champion Building Better Healthcare Awards 2011

Modern apartments for independent living - One or two bedroom apartments are available for rent or purchase.

• Dementia Carer of the Year National Care Awards 2011

• Best Elderly Care Design Award Design & Health International Awards 2010

• Lifetime Achievement Award in Dementia Care UK Dementia Congress 2010

• Sunday Times Top 100 Best Places to Work 2010 • Bronze in Elderly Accommodation Council Awards 2010

Locations in Crewe, Macclesfield, Atherton and Wigan.

Supporting you in your own home - Belong also has a registered domiciliary care service, providing flexible, expert support to people in the community.

Your life, your pace, your way.

Call 0800 032 2266 to find out more or visit www.belong.org.uk

Belong sets the standard in dementia care Belong villages are operated by the CLS Care Services Group – a not-for-profit organisation with over thirty years’ experience in delivering outstanding care. Its villages offer a purpose-built environment based on leading edge design to meet the needs of older people, particularly those with dementia. Belong villages are attracting national attention for their success in delivering a radically different model of both housing and care. For one, they have been designed around the needs of the very frail, typically 85 plus, sector of the population.

Embracing the community

From independent living to complex nursing care

Moreover, Belong’s support services are not restricted to those living within the village. Members of the community can be supported in their own home through the organisation’s registered domiciliary service, Belong at Home, or invited into the village to take advantage of Belong ‘Experience Days’ – a refreshing alternative to traditional day care.

Chief Executive, Nick Dykes, explains: “There are plenty of retirement villages out there for people over 55 who are able to lead reasonably active lives, but far fewer services designed for the growing population of frail older people. “We had successfully pioneered a new ‘household’ model of care in our traditional care homes, but could not take this as far as we wanted because of the limitations of older buildings. In Belong, we were given a blank sheet of paper and were able to create mixed village communities that, for the first time, are able to accommodate the full spectrum of people’s needs.” Residents can choose to live independently in village apartments, or enjoy a high level of support in the households. Even then, the level of support varies according to residents’ needs, from residential, through nursing to high dependency dementia care. The idea behind this is that villages should offer a home for life, with flexibility for residents to access different services should their needs change.

Leading edge design The design of the villages takes the lead from the needs of older people who live in them. Smaller households of around a dozen residents mean a family atmosphere can be created, and that residents are well understood and known to their carers.

Beyond this, strong links to other organisations have seen the village bring together a wide cross-section of the community, from toddler and baby groups through school teachers to memory clinics, creating a true sense of village life and, with it, opportunities for interaction with people of different ages and backgrounds.

Nick Dykes affirms the importance of this aspect. “One of the criticisms commonly levelled at retirement village type communities is that they are very insular. What we have been able to achieve in Belong is a more outward looking facility that has succeeded in bringing people in from the local community, whether just for a coffee or to join in activities on offer. Residents are equally flexible in the extent they choose to join in village life. Indeed, privacy and dignity are frequently cited amongst the best aspects of life in one of our villages.”

Responsible finances Behind the scenes, the CLS Group runs its operation on a financially sound but also ethical business model, generating the surplus that is required to ensure stability and security for residents. As a not for profit organisation, any surplus is reinvested into its services, people and facilities rather than benefiting private shareholders.

In particular, the open plan layout of these households supports easy orientation and ensures support workers are always visible to offer assistance in an unobtrusive way. Residents have secure access to the outdoors from each household and can move freely in and out. At the same time, security is maintained between the households and village centre to ensure privacy within people’s own ‘homes’.

Village locations - Crewe • Macclesfield • Atherton • Wigan

CONTENTS

Getting your finances into shape Did you know that according to recent studies the average 50 year old is now often fitter and healthier than the average 25 year old? Whether you keep in shape by cycling, walking the dog or running around after the grandkids – it pays to take the time to get your finances fit too.

8-9

50 Plus Magazine asked the Financial Ombudsman Service – the free service with the power to sort out financial problems – for some handy tips to help you get your finances healthy.

12-13

Five steps to getting financially fit 1. Check your account regularly so you know exactly how much money you have coming in and going out. Keep a date of when payments are due to make sure you have funds available. Some payments, for example to catalogue companies debit your account every 28 days so your payment date will change each month. If you spot a payment that you don’t recognise talk to your bank - if you don’t need it, cancel it! 2. Shopping around can ensure you get the best rate for your car, home or travel insurance. But be careful to read the small print and check any exclusions that apply. Remember the cheaper policy may not be the best one for your needs. Check that you have given the business all the relevant details – like a list of vehicle modifications for your motor insurance or information on any pre-existing medical conditions for travel insurance. 3. Interest free deals on credit cards or loan agreements can be a great way to spread the cost if you’re thinking of treating yourself to a new three piece suit or car. But make sure you know when the interest free period ends as repayments after this date can be expensive. Remember – the interest free period may be conditional on you maintaining the minimum repayments so keep a date of how much you need to pay and when. 4. If you’re considering putting your money into some investments, take some time to think about how much risk you’re willing to take. While riskier investments could bring bigger rewards, these aren’t guaranteed. Don’t take a chance if you can’t afford to risk your capital. 5. Most importantly, don’t bury your head in the sand! If you have a money related problem let your bank or insurer know as soon as possible – they should be able to help. If you’re still unhappy, contact the ombudsman on 0300 123 9 123 or www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk

20-21

29-31

inside...

TRAVEL & LEISURE 8-9

Malta... Travel to a touch of England in the Med

10-11 Robinsons Holidays Affordable peace of mind

INTERVIEW 12-13 Russell Grant... the comeback kid

FOOD & DRINK 20-21 The Nation’s Favourite French Chef... Two recipes from Jean-Christophe Novelli

HOME 29-31 Changing Rooms Tips to improve your home. McGrath Media. Unit 6 | Moses Gate Workshops Gladys Street | Bolton | BL3 2QG. T: (01204) 796 494 | F: (01204) 791594 e: mcgrathadmin@btconnect.com

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HAVING A TWITTER with Graham Smith Things ain’t what they used to be The size of Waggon Wheels says a lot about the state of this country in my opinion. I was chatting, tweeting even, to a friend the other day and he set me thinking because he was dreadfully upset about his Penguin bar, almost in tears he was.

If a banana curves at more than the prescribed EU definition it is fed to the local zoo, gooseberries have been ordered to the barbers if they are too hairy, the list is endless. I recall that Rileys toffee rolls were twice their size in my youth. We bought them in loose “quarters” then, that was sensible measurement, but now they’re shrunk wrapped in

They’re just not the same any more, and when I mentioned Waggon Wheels he almost had apoplexy. “They’re like tiddlywinks compared to when I was a lad,” he sobbed. I had to agree. I don’t have a sweet tooth often but I have noticed that since we joined the Common Market, or whatever we’re supposed to call it now, things have not been the same. Jelly babies have become positively embryonic, wine gums have become a third of the size they were when I was at school and when did you last see a whopping great tomato in a supermarket? You won’t, because the supermarkets now employ people to make sure all fruit and veg is of virtual uniformity and colour. The tomatoes have to stand to attention every morning while some sergeant major of an attendant inspects them and anything over a centimetre bigger than its neighbour is probably splatted with a swagger stick.

How Good Are Your Dentures?

at least three layers of cellophane which is more designed to keep the flavour out than in. Mars bars are in serious danger of extinction if they get any smaller and gobstoppers simply can’t compete. So why are we a nation of increasingly obese people if everything is getting smaller? That’s easy. Every café now seems to be serving “mega all day breakfasts” with enormous helpings of greasy spoon material, pizzas are getting bigger and it seems to be the norm now to walk down the street eating large pastries, spitting crumbs everywhere and heeding no one because there is a piece of electrical equipment plugged into every bodily orifice. Give it five years and some of these kids won’t know what birdsong and traffic sound like. There is one saving grace to it all though, if they are run over by a Waggon Wheel it won’t do much damage.

You must be joking

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What passes for humour today often leaves me cold. Winner of the top joke at the Edinburgh Fringe was Stewart Francis with the offering, “Know who gives kids a bad name? Posh and Becks.” Oh come on you can do better than that! What happened to the golden age which produced real comics such as Morecambe and Wise, Les Dawson and Dave Allen? They could not only deliver the stuff with immaculate timing but write it as well. Their actions and expressions were funny and they didn’t have to resort to the vernacular vulgarity so often seen at televised fringe events where the laughter is canned and the comic probably should be. Stewart Francis by the way is Canadian, which, if you’ve had a drink or two, sounds like comedian.

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Platforms Adaptations Service Aids Independent Living Platform’s Adaptations Team specialise in fitting adaptations around the home to make daily living easier and safer. Based in Cheshire, Platform is a subsidiary of Wulvern Housing Ltd and has a wealth of experience in helping people to remain independent in their homes. The team are fully trained to carry out home assessments and are supported by a fully qualified occupational therapist to ensure that the most appropriate adaptations are installed, allowing for the greatest level of independence and safety.

We are affordable specialists who you can trust to install: Support & grab rails Wet floor shower rooms & level access showers Bath lifts & lever taps Ramps & modified steps Stair lifts Hoists Specialist lighting Wheelchair accessible doors and opening systems Specialist sockets, switches, handles & locks Wider driveways and paths Intercom systems

Our team of specialist fitters are fully qualified to assess and adapt your home to meet your needs, and benefit from advice and support from a fully qualified occupational therapist.

Call us today and enjoy independent living your way!

0845 201 1145 adaptations@platformhomes.co.uk www.platformhomes.co.uk/adaptations

Personal Care

call Platform’s Adaptations Team today!

Access Solutions

Don’t struggle around your home

Safe & Secure

Jason Russell, Platform.

The team are affordable specialists who you can trust, for more information contact them today and see how you could benefit.

Everyday Living

“The simplest adaptations can make the world of difference to the resident or carer.”

Many residents who could benefit from adaptations do not qualify for a Disabled Living Grant from the Local Authority and research suggests that many feel unsure where to go for help. This is where the Adaptations Team can help by providing affordable, tailored solutions to help with every day living.

50 Plus Travel

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MALTA Travel to a touch of England in the Med By Peter Lynch Journalist, rail and wildlife specialist, contributor to Great Train Journeys of the World and Silver Travel Advisor

Malta is a fabulous Mediterranean destination especially if you dislike the hassle of foreign languages. Everyone speaks good to perfect English yet Malta retains all the charm of the Mediterranean. The universality of English is down to Malta being part of the British Empire from 1814 until 1964 but strangely it was not one of the Empires conquests. In the Napoleonic era Malta was between a rock and a hard place - at risk of being invaded by the French and the Russians. It opted for the protection of the British Empire and subsequently played a crucial role in defeating Rommel’s Afrika Korps in North Africa during WWII. It’s a tiny place, significantly smaller than the Isle of Wight, with a familiar yet foreign ambience. They have the highest density of catholic priests outside the Vatican City, produce and explode more fireworks per head than anywhere else on earth and eat an unbelievable number of rabbits. Of course, they drive on the left and something I love is how it’s kept some of the classic images from my

childhood – old red telephone boxes, red post boxes and blue lights outside police stations. Sadly EU bureaucrats have forced the withdrawal of the famous orange vintage Leyland and Bedford buses. The World Heritage listed capital of Valletta is Europe’s first planned city, laid out in a grid system of streets and alleyways. The Knights of St John built it on a peninsula as a defence against the Turks during the sixteenth century. The Upper Barrakka Gardens provide a must-see harbour and city view and the Grand Master’s palace and armoury is a must. Don’t be put off by the plain exterior of St John cathedral; it belies a fabulous Baroque interior and a famous painting by Caravaggio. Valletta’s real charm is its ambience, so it’s important to sit in an outdoor cafe and soak up the palpable sense of history rather than just rushing around the sites –the perfect excuse for loafing. But all this is just recent history; Malta’s prehistoric megalithic temples are older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids. It’s a dream destination for historians and reads

Find Romance & Friendship with UK property owners in Spain Mature Send flirts Ask Questions Free replies Meet Genuine People 8

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Valletta’s real charm is its ambience, so it’s important to sit in an outdoor cafe and soak up the palpable sense of history... on his journey back from Troy to Ithaca in Greece. Then there are the Phoenicians from the Biblical cities of Tyre and Sidon who traded and settled Malta until ousted by the Roman’s. St Paul was also shipwrecked on Malta en-route to Rome and his indelible legacy of Christianity is still evident in the islands 360 churches. The marks of Norman and Arab conflicts are everywhere on the island, culminating with the spectacular city of Valletta built by the Knights of St John in 1566. Malta’s history rolls on involving the Spanish Empire; Napoleon predictably turned up and of course the British. But its not history that makes Malta one of the UK’s favourite holiday destinations - it’s the glorious weather, the friendly people, the Mediterranean lifestyle and the convenience of English speakers. When Malta’s history, shopping and nightlife pall the 20-minute ferry across to Gozo is like moving to another country. It is Malta’s exclusive hideaway island with a pastoral ambience compared to Malta’s brasher tourist developments. Everything runs at a slower pace on Gozo.

like a textbook of western civilisation, probably with more human history packed into its122 sq miles than anywhere else on earth. There are 23 prehistoric sites dating back 6,000 years including the impressive megalithic temples of Taraxien and Hagar Qim but the subterranean hypogeum of Hal Saflieni is perhaps the most breathtaking. It is the only known underground pre-historic temple. Not much is known about these ancient temple builders or their mysterious parallel ‘cart tracts’ gouged into the limestone. They’ve been likened to a complex railway junction (Clapham Junction) because they criss-cross the landscape and some even disappear off the edge of the cliff - creating an endless source of myths and legends. Homer’s Odyssey tells of Ulysses being shipwrecked on the nearby island of Gozo where Calypso captivated him

The islands capital of Rabat was renamed Victoria in 1897 to commemorate the Queen’s Diamond jubilee but its still the beautiful quant town of alleyways, cafes and little shops it always was. The imposing walled citadel sheltered people from the marauding corsairs who plagued island communities throughout the Mediterranean. Gozo has its share of prehistoric monuments such as the Ggantija temple - supposedly built by giantesses and more mysterious ‘cart ruts’. The impressive Romanesque Basilica of Ta Pinu dominates the Gozitan skyline and has become a local shrine with a Lourdes-like status for miracle cures. Inside the walls are adorned with artificial limbs and other relics left by grateful pilgrims.

So don’t bother with a history book in Malta, just stroll around and let it all seep in, and between momentous historical events you’ll be able to find a perfect pasta and a decent pint of beer.

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

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Est.1923

Affordable peace of mind ..... Holidays

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Facilities at the Abbey Lawn Hotel include: Indoor Heated Pool/Outdoor Pool, Solarium, Sauna, Steam Room, Lounge, Gym, Large Conservatory, Sea View Rooms available*, Lift, Porterage.

10 Feb

£149 -

17 Feb

£159 -

24 Feb

£164 -

03 Mar

£169 £229

10 Mar

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17 Mar

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24 Mar

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29 Mar

£199 -

The Imperial Hotel, Eastbourne, Robinsons 3M An impressive Victorian building set amidst a beautiful tree lined boulevard. Facilities at the Imperial Hotel include: Two Residents’ Bars, Ballroom, TV & Complimentary Tea & Coffee in all Bedrooms, 2 x Lifts, Porterage.

The Ocean View Hotel, Shanklin, Robinsons 3M An elegant hotel commanding magnificent views across Sandown Bay, Golden Beaches and a quaint collection of shops. Facilities at the Ocean View Hotel include: Indoor Heated Pool, Spa, Indoor Bowling Green, Table Tennis, Snooker Room, Sea View Rooms available* Lift, Porterage.

Departures

31 Mar

£279 - -

03 Apr

£195 -

07 Apr

£199 £289

14 Apr

£199 £289

21 Apr

£205 £299

28 Apr

£209 £319

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20 May

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25 August

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£389

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31 August

£399

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26 May

£365

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01 Sept

£369

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27 May

£239

07 Sept

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01 June

£399

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08 Sept

£369

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02 June

£369

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14 Sept

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£399

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15 Sept

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21 Sept

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£399

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05 Oct

£339

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29 June

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06 Oct

£289

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30 June

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13 Oct

£215

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06 July

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20 Oct

£209

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£205

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£185

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RUSSELL GRANT: THE COMEBACK KID When Russell Grant first danced into the hearts of the viewing millions on “Strictly Come Dancing” last year his stars might well have predicted great success and a comeback of cosmic proportions. For arguably Britain’s favourite astrologer may not have won the series – well, let’s face it, his dancing was more entertainment than excellence – but the live audiences and those at home loved him. And for Russell this TV appearance provided a passport back to fame. Born in Middlesex, Russell was brought up in a council house by his set designer father Frank and secretary mother Joan who both worked at Pinewood Studios. His parents separated when he was 11 and he moved in with his maternal grandmother but, in spite of the upheaval, Russell has always said he had a happy childhood. He worked as a Butlins’ Redcoat and trained as an actor, appearing in a variety of shows. While working in Blackpool, Russell met his partner Doug Beaumont and the two have been together for almost 40 years. Although Russell first came to prominence in 1978 after he held an astrological reading for the Queen Mother which led to him being dubbed “Astrologer Royal”, his theatre, TV and film career was surprisingly comprehensive and successful. It spanned more than 30 musicals and comedies, including work as varied as touring with “The King and I” to TV’s “On 12

The Buses”, “Please Sir!” and “The Fenn Street Gang”. He’s been in “Tom Brown’s Schooldays” in the West End and was an effective panto dame in shows all over the country. However, TV beckoned and it was Russell’s fascination with astrology and his exuberant personality that brought him before the nation, first on Yorkshire TV and then on Granada TV where he was a regular onscreen explaining the daily horoscopes. From there he moved to breakfast TV with BBC’s “Breakfast Time” and later to TV-am as resident astrologer on “Good Morning.” A broadcasting natural and popular presenter, this role soon broadened to presenting other shows including celebrity quiz “Star Choice”. He later had his own six-episode series “Russell Grant’s All Star Show.” He worked for Channel 5 just after it was launched and directed and starred in “Russell Grant’s Postcards”, a collection of more than 100 five-minute travelogues produced by his own company Russell Grant World Productions. Russell worked solidly on a number of TV projects, with his astrology skills ever present, and he wrote a number of popular newspaper columns and horoscopes in regional newspapers throughout the country as well as in various magazines. Like many TV personalities, however, his star waned for a while. In 2006, he took part in the fourth series of “Celebrity Fit Club” and lost over three stone, but he later suffered from depression and his weight rocketed, this time to 26 stone. He became something of a recluse at the 30-acre Snowdonia estate that he shares with Doug but, being Russell Grant and

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INTERVIEW a trouper, determined that the show must go on, he began losing weight – around 10 stone in two and a half years by disco dancing each day for half an hour! In 2011, an online group called “Get Russell on Strictly” finally persuaded TV executives to have him as a contestant on the show. In September last year, he burst onto our screens with his lovely professional dancing partner Flavia Cacace. Surprisingly light on his feet and with genuine rhythm, Russell sported a number of colourful and outrageous costumes and certainly won the day with viewers.

highly successful run followed which enhanced and revived Russell’s theatrical reputation once more. The production also brought him under the dancing wing of choreographer and dance teacher Arlene Phillips – “She even had me dancing the Charleston”, said Russell. Following his memorable appearance in the hit musical, Russell has been brought in as a guest star for a new tour of the show “Grease”, taking the role of Teen Angel at various venues including Newcastle, Llandudno, Southseas, Wimbledon, Dartford and for a one-week run in Manchester in October.

In fact, they kept him in the knock-out programme until late November – in spite of much criticism from the judges, in particular the often acerbic Craig Revel Horwood. The abiding memory of Russell from the series, however, is of him being shot from a cannon as part of one particularly fun number!

He’s back working with Arlene Phillips, whom Russell insists is his “dance sister.” “Arlene brought out the very best in me working on ‘The Wizard of Oz’,” he stated. “So when she said I was right for Teen Angel and, if I took the part, she’d create the choreography, how could I resist!”

This great revival by the “comeback kid” caught the attention of the famous musical writer and producer Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber. He invited Russell to return to the West End stage – and the Palladium Theatre where he’d last performed 34 years before – and take part in a three-month stint replacing Michael Crawford as the “Wizard of Oz” in a new production.

The sparkly suit and no doubt mesmerising performances are bound to leave the audience hopelessly devoted to Mr Grant’s special charms again. And it’s one more dancing role which he now loves, as he explained: “Teen Angel has a Strictly twist and shimmy which captures the joy of dance I’ve been lucky enough to have discovered.”

“I was worried as I was due to have an operation on my knee,” commented Russell. “I’m 61 now. At this age you know your limitations. But you also sense your mortality. So there was a two-way thing going on. I was trying to talk myself out of it, thinking ‘Can’t I just go back to Wales?’”

As for the future, who knows? Russell hasn’t set himself any special showbiz boundaries and his fans are never surprised – just happy to see their favourite star once more ascending.

Fortunately, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Russell’s close friend Lulu convinced him the part was right for him, and a

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B U X TO N O P E R A SUN 28 OCTOBER Impact Opera presents

OCT TO FEBRUARY 2013 Buxton's exquisitely beautiful Opera House was designed and built by Frank Matcham, one of Britain's finest architects in 1903. One of Britain’s leading receiving theatres, it presents around 700 performances each year including comedy, children’s events, drama, musical shows, pantomime, dance and opera. Lovingly restored to its former glory in 2001 after major refurbishment, the theatre is well worth a visit. Expect a spectacular auditorium complete with cherubim, exquisite ceiling paintings and gold leaf decoration.

CARMEN

Dynamic & sexy new version of Bizet’s best loved opera

SAT 3 NOVEMBER An evening with

SIR CHRIS BONINGTON

Inspiring images and chat with the legendary mountaineer

MON 5 NOVEMBER The Original Theatre Company presents

THREE MEN IN A BOAT

Three actors bring to life this ripping yarn of boating misadventure TUES 6 NOVEMBER

FOSTER & ALLEN

An evening of song with the wellloved Irish duo

Don’t forget – visit Buxton Opera House for:•

The stunningly beautiful and historic Opera House auditorium

•

A packed programme of events for everyone to enjoy

•

Easy parking and a friendly welcome

•

An excellent range of discounts for senior citizens and groups of 8+ on most performances.

•

A delightful spa town with terrific restaurants and B&Bs – why not stay a few days?

To book tickets or request a brochure, call the Box Office on

0845 127 2190

WEDS 7 NOVEMBER

JULIAN CLARY Position Vacant: Apply Within

The master of camp with his new show

THURS 8 NOVEMBER

FOCUS

Classic rock Dutch-style from the 70s chart-toppers

THURS 8 to SUN 11 NOV

BUXTON FESTIVAL OF WORLD CINEMA 2012

4 days – 2 venues – 17 movies full of passion, comedy, colour, suspense & action

(local rate from anywhere in the UK. Call charges from a mobile vary).

10am to 8pm Mon to Saturday (or 6pm if no evening show) 4pm to 8pm Sunday if there is an evening performance.

Or visit www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk for a full what’s on listing.

www.retiredmagazines.co.uk BOX OFFICE: 0845 127 2190

HOUSE SAT 10 NOVEMBER

THURS 29 NOVEMBER

MARTY WILDE’S ROCK ‘N’ ROLL PARTY

10cc

TUES 13 NOVEMBER

FRI 30 NOVEMBER

KINGS OF SWING

Fidelio

FRI 15 & SAT 16 NOVEMBER

WED 12 DEC to TUES 1 JANUARY

Albert Herring & The Emperor of Atlantis

PETER PAN

SUN 18 NOVEMBER

MON 17 DECEMBER

The Manfreds

Gervase Phinn

MON 19 to SAT 24 NOVEMBER

MON 31 DECEMBER

CALENDAR GIRLS

NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA CONCERT

SUN 25 NOVEMBER

SUN 13 JANUARY

A Christmas Carol

A Viennese Strauss Gala

MON 26 & TUES 27 NOVEMBER

SAT 9 FEBRUARY

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Maria Friedman

Original dreamboats, Marty Wilde, Eden Kane and Mike Berry, plus the Wildcats

Greatest hits of Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Dean Martin, Bobby Darin & more with the Kings of Swing Orchestra & vocalists

English Touring Opera present classic works by Benjamin Britten and Viktor Ullmann

Paul Jones, Mike d’Abo and the band present their amazing hit list

With an all-star cast including Ruth Madoc & Lesley Joseph

Ballet Theatre UK present an enchanting dance version of the Dickens favourite

New version of the Shakespearean classic, set during World War II

Graham Gouldman and the band with their unforgettable hit songs

New London Opera Players with Beethoven’s seldom-performed opera

Annual family panto starring Louis Emerick (Brookside) and Glen Davies (Bear Behaving Badly)

The popular author and raconteur comes to Buxton with a celebration of Christmas

With the British Philharmonic Concert Orchestra

All the glamour and romance of the Waltz Kings brought to life

The multi-award winning queen of West End musicals with her acclaimed one-woman show

Buxton Opera House Water Street, Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 6XN

www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

THE HAIRY DIETERS HOW TO LOVE FOOD AND LOSE WEIGHT THE HAIRY DIETERS

HOW TO LOVE FOOD AND LOSE WEIGHT by Dave Myers and Si King Published by Weidenfeld & Nicolson on 2 August 2012 in trade paperback at £14.99, eBook £7.99 The Hairy Bikers are back this summer with a new book to accompany an exciting new 4 x 60 minute food odyssey on BBC Two starting on Thursday 2 August. Si King and Dave Myers have made their names cooking real food for real people, creating mouth-watering dishes big on flavour and calories - and it’s taken its toll on their bodies. Now all of that has to stop, as they return to our screens with The Hairy Dieters: How To Love Food And Lose Weight. The problem is they’re not prepared to live on salads and compromise on taste. Loving the food they eat is a cornerstone of Si and Dave’s lives and they know they won’t succeed in shedding the pounds if the food they eat is dull and repetitive. The Hairy plan: to create some delicious healthy recipes to help them on their way and so persuade Britain to lose weight with them. On their journey the boys join forces with the men and women of Britain to find ways of creating food that satisfies their lust for tasty cooking and answers the demands of the doctors and nutritionists who want them to make less of themselves. The boys hope that what starts with a mighty weigh-in will end in triumph, lessons learned and trousers taken in.

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

Now for an excerpt from their best selling book.

FOOD ISN’T JUST FUEL FOR US — IT’S OUR LIFE. WE SPEND MOST OF EVERY DAY COOKING, THINKING ABOUT FOOD AND COMING UP WITH RECIPE IDEAS, NOT TO MENTION EATING! GREAT-TASTING FOOD IS OUR PASSION AND WE’RE NOT ABOUT TO GIVE THAT UP. But we have to admit that we’ve overdone it a bit. Years of enjoying endless gorgeous meals has taken its toll and we’ve piled on the pounds. Like many middle-aged blokes — and ladies — we found that we’d got too hefty and our health was suffering. It was time to face facts and take a good hard look at ourselves so we took a deep breath and got on the scales. Ouch! It was a long time since we’d weighed anything except

THE HAIRY BIKERS’ BIG BOOK OF BAKING, published in March 2012 is currently this year’s biggest selling hardback non-fiction book. Other cookery books by the Hairy Bikers include: THE HAIRY BIKERS’ FOOD TOUR OF BRITAIN, MUMS KNOW BEST, THE HAIRY BIKERS’ 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS, MUMS STILL KNOW BEST, THE HAIRY BIKERS’ PERFECT PIES

ingredients and it was a shock. We were both a couple of stone or more overweight and over 40% of our body mass was fat. It was time to diet. Now we have to be honest, we’re never going to be skinny minnies and we don’t want to be. It’s just not us. But we’ve made the effort to lose weight to stay healthy and enjoy life to the full. We want to be walking up hills and down dales without getting out of breath, and to be riding our big bikes when we’re 70 so we need to keep mobile and trim. And that means every now and again watching what we eat and reining it in a bit. Okay, we’re not going to diet for ever — we’re still greedy and we’ll always love our pies and curries — but our weighin was a wake-up call to act before we got dangerously big. Losing weight has been quite a journey for us but we’ve done it and we’re proud of ourselves. Now we know we can drop the pounds when we need to and this will help us keep a check on things in the future. If we can do it so can you. Look at losing weight as an investment in yourself and the people you love. The benefits far outweigh the sacrifices.

SO THIS IS WHAT WE DID... We didn’t want to sacrifice the pleasure of cooking and feel deprived or hungry so we knew we had to come up with meals that we would enjoy making and eating if we were to stick with the diet. With the advice of healthy eating experts, we discovered that by making small changes in our cooking habits we could still enjoy big flavours and the food we loved while dropping the pounds. And it’s true. We’ve shed weight and we feel the better for it. Our blood pressure and cholesterol levels are down, our waistlines have shrunk, we have more energy and we look HOT — but not as sweaty as we used to!

And even more importantly, we’ve done all this while still eating some of our favourite, great-tasting dishes that we now cook with less fat and sugar, but bags of flavour. We think our recipes are fantastic. Yes, they’re lower in fat and sugar but they still taste amazing and we’re still just as enthusiastic and creative about our cooking as ever.

COUNTING THE CALORIES

IT’S WORKED FOR US AND IT CAN WORK FOR YOU We’ve found a way of eating ourselves slimmer and we want to share our discoveries with you. The secret is to make better choices and use little tricks to reduce your daily calorie count. Calorie counting might have fallen out of favour somewhat over recent years, replaced by all sorts of wacky dieting ideas, but it does work. We’re the living proof. We’ve lost pounds and inches! We’ve made all the recipes in this book as low in calories as possible while not compromising on the taste. And we’ve had a nutritionist check them out and do calorie counts for each one so you know exactly where you are. If you eat these, without cheating, you will lose weight — and you’ll love us for it. We have to confess we’ve never really thought too much about calories and the amount of food we were taking in but we know a lot more now. As many as a quarter of us Brits are obese and it’s not good for us, so it seems that many of us are taking in much more than we’re putting out. Our experts explained to us that in order to lose weight, you have to take in fewer calories so the body has to use its stores — makes sense so far doesn’t it?

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Bury Market Hall open everyday except Sunday “Winner BBC Radio 4’s Food and Farming Awards” Best Food Market “Winner UK Coach Awards” Most Coach Friendly Shopping Attraction “Winner NABMA’s” Best Market Attraction Full Markets Open Wednesdays Fridays and Saturdays

An Award Winning Market Bury Market’s huge selection of fresh food and produce has been praised the world over…but the only compliments we really want are from our customers! At Bury Market you’ll discover over 350 stalls selling everything from fresh food to the latest fashions – and a whole lot more! Bury Market’s traders are here every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday for fantastic products, friendly service and always for great value.

For something different why not visit our Food and Craft Market on the third Sunday of each month?

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

VERMILION CHRISTMAS

2012

ASIAN ESCAPISM – THE ULTIMATE DESTINATION

portal that will transport you into a beautiful and hallucinatory world of Asia. Serving art, sound, culture and Thai & Indian fusion cuisine.

Vermilion also created a private function room: “The Abacus Gallery” where we can cater for personalised private events, with guests ranging from 50 – 250. This includes its own private bar, dance floor, separate sound system, a choice of delectable dining menus and complimentary 200 car parking spaces.

LAPLAND THIS CHRISTMAS AT VERMILION Join us from December 7th to 22nd where we will be holding an extravagant ‘Lapland’ Theme, every night at Vermilion & Cinnabar. This will include amazing Lapland props and a truly festive atmosphere to make your Christmas party the most special event of the year. But that’s not all...

A ‘CHAMPAGNE’ CHRISTMAS AT VERMILION We are proud introduce a new special Christmas offer at Vermilion. Celebrate in true style with our exclusively designed ‘Champagne & Dine’ Christmas Set Menu, where guests can celebrate their Christmas party at Manchester’s most luxurious restaurant, with a complimentary glass of champagne for each person from us.

cocktails at Cinnabar, where our DJs will be playing a mix of modern and classic Christmas tracks. This offer will be available between Monday to Wednesday in December, from 12pm to 10pm, at £22.50 per person.

Please visit our website for further information at www.vermilioncinnabar.com

This will also include a ‘Lapland’ themed atmosphere, together with a delectable 3 course set menu, that includes Malai Prawns, Steamed Salmon, Duck Breast to name a few, together with 2 for 1

Vermilion Restaurant & Cinnabar

Lord North Street, Hulme Hall Lane Manchester M40 8AD 0161 202 0055 vermilioncinnabar.com reservations@vermilioncinnabar.com

THE NATION’S FAVOURITE FRENCH CHEF Jean-Christophe Novelli is a 5 out of 5 AA Rosette and Michelin award winning chef and he has been dubbed the “the nation’s favourite French chef ”. Exclusively for Port Salut, Jean-Christophe has created two French themed recipes and a series of tips for creating the perfect cheeseboard. “Port Salut is a classic French cheese which I have always enjoyed, so I was delighted to be asked to work with the brand. For the recipes I have used Port Salut to give traditional French dishes a new twist and I hope my cheeseboard tips will give your cheese course a whole new lease of life.”

CHAR GRILLED CHICKEN, LEEK, PORT SALUT AND BUTTON MUSHROOM FRICASSEE, WHOLE MEAL CROUTON INGREDIENTS 4 x skinned and boneless chicken supreme’s (cut into thin strips) 2 leeks, trimmed, washed and cut into thin slices 2 x spring onions (trimmed and chopped into thin roundels) 1 clove of garlic (peeled and crushed) 100g chestnut or button mushrooms (sliced) 100g grated Port Salut 50g breadcrumbs 50g grated Port Salut 75ml double cream 25g butter 1 bunch of chives (chopped) 4 slices of wholemeal bread (cut into fingers) 25ml olive oil 1/2 tsp dried herbs 1/2 glass white wine

METHOD 1.

Heat a char grill skillet until very hot, brush the chicken strips with some of the oil and season with salt and pepper and your favourite spice, paprika is good as is cumin or garam marsala.

Quickly char grill the chicken pieces until well coloured and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.

In a large saucepan melt the butter over a low heat.

Add the leek and spring onion and sweat until tender.

Add the garlic and the mushrooms and continue to cook until the mushrooms are tender and softened.

Add the white wine and the cream and allow to boil

Add the 100g of Port Salut and continue to simmer until the cheese is melted and the sauce is thick. Add the chives.

Add the strips of chicken and stir in to coat with the sauce.

Place in an oven proof serving dish.

10. In a small mixing bowl combine the 50g of Port Salut with the breadcrumbs and scatter this over the top. 11. Bake in a pre heated oven until the crumbs are crisp and golden and the cheese has melted.

FOR THE WHOLEMEAL CROUTONS METHOD 1.

Place the bread fingers on a baking tray.

Brush with olive oil & dried herbs and season with cracked pepper

Bake in a hot oven until crisp and golden brown. Serve on a side plate with the chicken and leek fricassee.

Jean-Christophe Novelli has produced these tips exclusively for Port Salut. Visit www.portsalut.co.uk for more info.

CRISPY GRANARY BRUSCHETTA, POACHED EGG, SPINACH AND A PORT SALUT GLAZE. INGREDIENTS 4 eggs (free range, large) 2-3 tablespoons of white wine vinegar 4 thick slices of ciabattas bread 25ml olive oil 1/2 tsp dried herbs 400g washed baby spinach leaves 100ml double cream 4 egg yolks 100g Port Salut (grated) 50g butter (optional) Sprinkle of ground nutmeg

CHEESEBOARD THEATRE TIPS 1.

Add some flavoured texture to your cheeseboard by dropping plain bread in favour of a fruit & nut bread such as apricot & walnut or prune & hazelnut and serve it slightly stale, cut into thin wafer slices

Fruit and cheese are a classic combination but give your grapes some extra character by serving them frozen – simply wash a bunch of grapes and shake off any excess water, place on a plate and pop in the freezer, serve directly once frozen onto the cheeseboard giving a more interesting texture with extra bite

Add a simple twist on the traditional by pairing your cheese with fruit that has a sharp acidity such as: cherries, raspberries, gooseberries, redcurrants, nectarines and tangy plums – these work well frozen too

METHOD 1.

Place the slices of ciabattas on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil and season with dried herbs, salt and pepper.

Place in a hot oven and bake until crisp and golden brown.

Place on four plates or a serving dish.

In a large sauce pan heat plenty of water to boiling point.

Add a couple of tablespoons of white wine vinegar and season to taste with salt.

Once boiling stir with a whisk to start a circular motion in the water and crack in the eggs one at a time, bring to the boil and immediately turn down to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes if a soft egg is required, a little longer for a firmer egg and 5-7 minutes for a hard poached egg.

Turn your cheeseboard into a visual feast by serving long celery stems in a vase of ice water. Team with a small bowl of rock salt too for dipping

Radishes are a tasty substitute to celery providing a peppery bite, leave a little stem on each on to hold on to and these can also be dipped in the rock salt

Keep the eggs warm in the water until needed.

In a sauce pan bring the cheese to the boil, reduce for a few minutes to thicken. Remove from the heat.

A fashionable alternative to the classic chutney is quince jelly – its sweet flavour will add a different dimension to your cheeseboard

Stir in the Port Salut and the eggs, allow the cheese to melt

Spice up your cheeseboard with a handful of sliced chillies or jalapenos, to give a flavoursome punch. This works particularly well with hard cheeses – these will complement the quince jelly too

Tantalise tastebuds with a rollercoaster ride of textures and flavours by adding olives and nuts to your cheeseboard

For an unexpected flavour, add some ground coffee beans to your board. A little sprinkle will give your cheeseboard a delicious edge

10. In a frying pan add half the butter if used and add the spinach cover with a tight fitting lid and bring to the boil allow the water from the spinach to cook the leaves and when soft and wilted strain to remove any excess water remaining. 11. Season with salt and pepper and spoon an equal amount onto each ciabatta bruschetta. 12. Top with an egg and mask with the cheese and cream mix. 13. Place under a hot grill until bubbling and golden brown. 14. Garnish with some snipped chives and serve.

10. Use dried vine leaves, herb sprigs and edible flowers to add more drama, aroma and taste to your cheeseboard

T H E D I N N E R C LU B

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Christmas

in Ashton-under-Lyne

For extra seasonal sparkle this Christmas, make it Ashton-under-Lyne. We have a wonderful programme of festive entertainment with the traditional as well as the unusual Arcades and Ladysmith Shopping Centres Ashton’s Indoor and Outdoor Markets The ‘Old Town’ Independent Traders Christmas Farmers’ Market Santa’s Grotto in the Ladysmith Shopping Centre each Saturday in December Indoor Market Hall Communal Seating Area with free wi-fi Great Choice, Great Value, Great Bargains Free town centre entertainment every weekend Brass Bands, Children’s Entertainers, Christmas Costume Characters. Late night shopping on Thursdays Sunday shopping 10am - 4pm Free Town Centre Parking after 3pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday

Visit www.shopatashton.com for more details Supported by Ashton Dstrict Assembly

CONTEMPORARY & CLASSICAL STYLES TO SUIT ALL TASTES First Impressions by Gail opened it’s doors for business in 1989 and has been successfully managed and run by owner Gail Cox ever since. First Impressions by Gail offers everything for special occasion wear, Mother of the bride and groom to a contemporary casual wear collection. “Fit is so important” Gail advises “We have an alteration service available to complete the perfect fit so you look and feel fabulous on such a special day. ” Customers travel from all over the country to shop at First Impressions and the personal service that they offer keeps people coming back time and time again. Gail puts great importance on customers having a relaxing and enjoyable experience when choosing outfits. Customers also have the luxury of 2 hours free parking outside the shop so they can take their time when browsing. Please visit our site and join our mailing list through Facebook!

Our stylish selection of brands... JOHN CHARLES Fitted dresses with matching jackets. Stunning mother of the bride collection with matching hats & fascinators to complete the look. ZELIA Dress jackets, matching dress coats in silvers or soft gold, prints and vibrant colours. CONDICI Silk dress jacket in stunning colours, rich deep

Cadbury’s purple, deep turquoise black & reds. Fabulous collections of colour design with matching hats & fascinators.

JOSEPH RIBKOFF Stunning dress collection including tops,

trousers and skirts.

OUI Knitwear collection including trousers, jackets, coats & dresses in fantastic rich magenta, black, camel, violet, blue(s) & navy. FRAN JANE New dress collection, favourite of the Middletons! Fitted dresses, some with long sleeves, exciting prints, plain colours. Takes you through to evening wear.

MADO Quirky styling in tunics, knitwear, dresses, trousers. Soft greys, reds, blacks, creams and lovely autumn palettes.

LA FEE MARABOUTEE New collection to the shop this

season. Fabulous knitwear collection including dresses, trousers & blouses in a coordinating collection in creams, coffee, black & greys.

We also have a wide selection of costume jewellery by DANTE.

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New Love

In recent years technology has moved fast, bringing us new and effective ways to pursue that Holy Grail, younger looking skin. fractional laser technology to help restore your skin to it’s original, beautiful glow. The Fraxel Laser was a considerable investment, however I knew it was the latest in Laser technology and the very best out there. It delivers incredible results with minimal down time and has a huge following, including many A-listers, such as Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie and Kim Kardashian” The uptake of the introductory offer has been huge, attracting clients from far and wide and of all age groups, along with quite a number of notable celebrities. All of whom have great expectations, and I’m pleased to say they have been overwhelmed with the results.

Always keen to ensure that she offers the best available treatments, Helen, owner of Loved in Bramhall, has invested in state-of-theart technology to enable her to maintain her leading position as first choice destination for skin health and rejuvenation. “When I first started I wanted to create an environment where people could relax and enjoy a calming break from the daily pressures of life and work”. “With total devotion, determination and an understanding of client needs, I’ve been able to achieve this, and I have a very loyal following of regular customers. But I felt it was time to add a more clinical dimension to the business, to satisfy the ever increasing demand for perfect skin health and the rediscovery of a former youth full appearance. Over the last few years I have relentlessly researched the best ways to bring non-surgical aesthetics to the business. “The most recent, and for me the most exciting, introduction has been Fraxel. This is an astonishingly effective treatment. Fraxel uses safe 24

With the nights drawing in and summer firmly behind us, Christmas festivities loom ahead, if you want to make this the year to look your absolute best, it’s not too late! Get started now, call 0161 440 0001 for a free consultation. The laser penetrates beneath the surface layers of the skin; stimulating collagen production and effectively ‘resurfacing ’ the top layer of your skin. As the skin rejuvenates, the boost in collagen creates a smoother, more elastic epidermis and so reduces fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage. We apply an anaesthetic cream prior to treatment, and the actual sensation of the laser is a little like a flash of heat. Afterwards you look a little flushed for a few days, but very quickly the new skin begins to shine through. For those not keen, or ready for, laser treatment, Helen advises Micro Needling. “Skin needling has long been used by dermatologists in the form of collagen induction therapy (CIT) to

fade scars and generally as an anti ageing treatment. “More recently smaller sizes of micro-needles have been recognised for their capacity to dramatically increase the absorption of topical formulations i.e. antioxidants, soluble collagen, etc, leading to a significant increase in their efficacy. “CIT is based on the skin’s natural ability to repair itself whenever it encounters physical damage such as cuts, burns and other abrasions. Immediately after an injury occurs to the skin our body reuses the damaged collagen and elastin fibres to produce new ones. Skin needling allows for controlled induction of the skin’s self-repair mechanism by creating micro-“injuries” in the skin which triggers new collagen synthesis. The result is smoother, firmer and younger looking skin.” And if even this sounds too daunting, then opt for a SkinCeuticals chemical peel. “This is a gentle, but highly effective treatment,” says Helen, “And again has tremendous results” Add to all these the semipermanent make-up for which Helen has gained a leading reputation in the Uk , along with the IPL thread vein, hair removal and Endermologie treatments also available, and it’s clear that the new face of Loved is one we could all do with getting to know a lot better!

Loved Advanced Skin Clinic and Day Spa 10 Ack Lane East Bramhall SK7 2BY 0161 440 0001 www.lovedbeauty.com www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

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The Winter Garden

Splashed with colour I

n the dark days of winter gardens can appear bare and uninteresting. But if you take the time now to visualise how your plot will look without the colours of the herbaceous border, you could be well on the way to creating a winter garden with its own special charm. Take a walk around your garden with notepad and pencil, note the gaps that will appear when the summer planting has been cut back, and check out any evergreen shrubs you already have in situ. Sketch out the garden with just those plants, and it's easy to see exactly where a colourful winter flowering shrub can be placed. There’s nothing quite as uplifting as the sight of flowers blooming in spite of the frost. Plant winter flowering shrubs where they can be seen from the house and try to include at least one shrub which flowers for each month of the winter. You could also include one or two shrubs which have coloured foliage.

Flowering shrubs for Winter November Mahonia Charity is an evergreen shrub, with spiky dark green leaves, and richly scented, deep yellow flowers which trail from the tips of the stems from November to February. A new variety, available from J. Parker’s, is Mahonia Cabaret, which has orange/ red flower buds, flowering from September to December.

Camellia Novembe

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Camellia November Pink. If you love camellias, this is one of the groups of Camellia Williamsii group of hybrids, and produces bright pink single flowers from November to March.

December Lonicera Fragrantissima, winter flowering honeysuckle, produces sweetly scented white flowers from December to March. Unlike other honeysuckles, this is a shrub, almost evergreen, with mid green leaves. Viburnam Grandiﬂorum. White flowers, flushed with pink, and heavily scented, appear on the bare branches of this shrub from December to February.

Camellia Winters Sn

owman

The Winter Garden splashed with colour

Photinia Red Robin. The new growth on this attractive shrub is bright red. January Daphne Odora. This bushy shrub is evergreen, with pale purple, richly scented flowers which bloom from January to April.

February Chaenomeles Speciosa (Japonica, or Japanese quince). This shrub produces waxy red flowers and dark green glossy leaves. Other forms include Apple Blossom, which is one of the most popular, with pink tinged, white flowers. The fruits of this shrub are equally attractive, apple shaped, turning deep yellow in late autumn. Hamamelis Mollis (witch hazel). If you come upon this plant in winter, the scent of the flowers will reach you before you see them. Growing to the size of a small tree, Hamamelis has green felted leaves which turn a rich yellow in autumn.

The yellow flowers, flushed red at the base, appear on the bare twigs from January onwards.

March Choisya Ternata (Mexican orange blossom). This hardy shrub has glossy, scented leaves and clusters of scented white flowers which appear in April. I’ve included this as a winter shrub because of its attractive foliage, which is extremely useful for cutting. There is also a gold leafed variety, which lights up the garden, adding a feeling of sunlight in the garden on the darkest day. Forsythia. No spring garden could be complete without this wonderful shrub, smothered with yellow flowers, which appear before the leaves. Magnolia Stellata. A slow growing deciduous tree with star shaped scented flowers which appear in March and April.

Evergreen shrubs with colourful foliage Photinia Red Robin. The new growth on this attractive shrub is bright red. Eleagnus Ebbingei. This variety has attractive silver and green foliage. Will grow up to 15 feet high, but takes pruning well.

For ground cover Cyclamen make wonderful ground cover, and if you have the chance, take a trip to Wakehurst Place in Surrey. As you enter the gardens you see a glorious carpet of pink and white beneath the trees. These little plants spread themselves and the foliage is as attractive as the flowers. Bergenia Evening Glow (elephant’s ears) creates a colourful splash in your garden. Although the purple, bell shaped flowers don’t appear until April, the large glossy leaves of this plant turn a deep red during the winter. Helleborus Niger (the Christmas rose), flowers from January to March. There are many varieties of this plant, which has attractive, glossy green foliage, and flowers, borne on twelve inch stems, varying from white, through pink, to dark purple. It’s also worth considering the many varieties of heather which produce white or pink flowers during winter. It’s worth remembering the value of pot plants. Early flowering daffodils, such as February Gold, grape hyacinths such as Muscari Armeniacum, potted up and grouped with separate pots of Harts tongue fern and small conifers will create interest and colour, before the first tulips appear in May. The choice, even for the dark days of winter is surprisingly varied, and if you plan now, your garden will reward you with colour and fragrance whatever the time of year. Jasminium Nudiﬂorum. The winter flowering jasmine is hardy and will flower in the most difficult conditions, so long as it’s sheltered from cold winds.

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Specialising in luxury fitted kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms Kitchens over £5,000 FREE induction hob (NEFF T41E21 - £377.00) Kitchens over £10,000 FREE induction hob (NEFF T41E21 - £377.00) and Oven (NEFF B45M42 - £558.00) Kitchens over £15,000 FREE induction hob (NEFF T41E21 - £377.00) Oven (NEFF B45M42 - £558.00) and Dishwasher (NEFF S51M63 - £471.00) Buy any bathroom FREE Shower - Mira element mixer shower (£323.00) or Mira Sport 9kw electric shower (£330.00) Bedroom orders over £2,000 FREE bedside chests

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Email: info@bylehyde.co.uk Web: www.bylesofhyde.co.uk Open Mon - Sat 9 - 5

“making houses homes”

AFTER

“CHANGING ROOMS...

BEFORE

...IN THE HOME IS SOMETHING MANY OF US LONG TO DO BUT ARE HAMPERED BY THOSE TWIN PROBLEMS: LACK OF MONEY AND LACK OF KNOWLEDGE.” Writes Angela Kelly We may know what we DON’T want around us, but probably have only a vague idea of what we do. The way we proceed next tends to relate either to the structure of the house – knocking through to give bigger rooms, adding a conservatory or building an extension – or the interior décor which includes everything from light fittings and wallpaper to furniture and paintings. For the first, often more sweeping, approach, architectural consultant Gary Willis from Novensus says always remember the importance of light. “Daylight directly affects our wellbeing and living in dark conditions can add to our lethargy,” he states.

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Deep rooms can appear dark as natural daylight can’t penetrate to the furthest reaches, so Gary suggests perhaps adding more windows. If privacy is an issue, consider use opaque window film, opaque glass or even glass blocks. “High level strip windows can also be used to provide natural light without sacrificing privacy,” he adds. A pitched roof with a flat internal ceiling could be opened up to a more interesting space, enhanced by exposed roof structure and effective roof lights. “Remove a wall to create an open plan dining/kitchen and a more adaptable space,” says Gary. “Even the removal of a load-bearing wall – one that has a structural purpose – is a relatively straightforward task to a competent builder.”

Meet the experts GARY WILLIS Architectural Consultant from Novensus JILL BRIMLEY Home Stylist - Changing Spaces For bigger projects, consider a garage or loft conversion. “Only around half of us really utilise our garage,” insists Gary. “Put this space to good use. Rather than just turning the garage into a room, how about thinking more laterally? Could you use part of the garage to extend an adjacent room to create a larger kitchen, whilst still reserving part of the garage for garden storage, a utility area or a study?” A conservatory can add both light and space to a home, “but a sun room or orangery is a much better option. It will be insulated to current standards that will provide a usable room in all seasons and ultimately add more value to your home. “Another alternative is a pre-built garden room which can be brought onto site in one piece, or built quickly in a modular format with limited disturbance.” Maximise garden views “and minimise rubbish ones!” advises Gary. “Create a cosy oasis of space with a smaller patio. Dress it up with flower boxes and a beautiful chair or swing to provide visual interest throughout all seasons.” Indoors, bring in the light with brighter, lighter colours on walls, floors and ceilings to maximise available light. Gloss and satin finishes will reflect more light than dull, dark colours and mirrors can be used imaginatively to bring much-needed light into a room or brighten a dark hallway also giving the illusion of space. When cash is short, home stylist and project manager Jill Brimley from Changing Spaces advises looking carefully at what you’ve already got and adapting where you can. “Dark walls can be painted a light, neutral shade like Dulux Natural Calico,” she says. Take a close look at doors as these can give a dated feel to a room, and invest in new, white ones to add to light. For the Living Room makeover (pictured), Jill also had new panelled cupboard doors made for the meter cupboard. The electrical socket was removed and re-sited to get rid of ugly trailing wires and storage added within the cupboard. A “gorgeous little chair” was bought from TK Maxx, the dark legs painted in white satin wood. The original curtains were dry cleaned and a new complimentary 30

fabric panel was added to lengthen them to the floor. “Additional fabric was bought to cover existing cushion pads to co-ordinate the look,” says Jill. She recycled accessories from around the home - “We also decluttered, removed the old carpet and put in new oak wood-style laminate flooring and painted the dark mahogany fireplace, mirror and cupboard in white satin wood to provide a brighter and nicer co-ordinated room.” For this Kitchen makeover on a budget, Jill kept the original units, unifying them to a cream satin wood and then adding freestanding furniture with doors almost identical to the existing units and bought at a clearance shop to add to the fitted look. Modern inexpensive cream brick tiles were used around the necessary areas, the walls were painted lighter with Dulux’s Javan Dawn, and the original back door was replaced with small French windows to bring in extra light and a view of the garden. Jill also replaced the original work top with a solid oak butcher’s block.

JILL’S TIPS FOR UPDATING

ANY EXISTING KITCHEN ARE: • declutter work surfaces, tops of cupboards and walls • Steam clean kitchen area • Update white electrical sockets with chrome • Replace worktops with new, more modern items and/or change cupboard doors • Inexpensive plain tiles can make the look fresher and more modern • Chrome tile trims give a more upmarket look • Emulsion the walls to compliment the décor • Invest in new floor covering • Change the colour of your kettle, toaster etc for instant impact www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

BEFORE In the Bedroom, use relaxing light neutral colours. If space is limited, go for sliding wardrobe mirror doors to reflect light back into the room. Shop carefully for complementary bargain soft furnishings – go online, visit mill and clearance shops or use sale curtains to make Roman blinds or a bed throw. “For a contemporary look, change the door handle and light switch to chrome,” adds Jill. “Inset halogen lights in the front and inside of the wardrobe, and upgrade the radiator and radiator cabinet.” Use old pillows that have flattened as cushion pads or cut up old duvets, and plump up curtains with crumpled tissue paper. The Bathroom can improve if you knock through an old bathroom and separate toilet into one modern area. Add a heated towel radiator to save on space and for a more stylish look.

KEEP YOUR CONFIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS SAFE FROM THIEVES WITH DOMESTIC SHREDDING

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

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

For more details visit www.changingspaces.org.uk and www.novensus.co.uk

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We offer a convenient and cost effective service at just £3 per bag (min charge £7) and all shredded documents are recycled and put back into the green economy for new environmental products. For more information visit www.stewaste.com/onsite-shredding

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We also have a selection of smaller bins for hire; these are suitable for jobs where you want to sort waste for recycling at your home. We aim to recycle as much as possible and can do full house clearances. For a detailed, free no obligation quote get in touch on 0161 488 4468 or visit www.skipsonwheels.com

ET .. N ER S .. ORE T IN ICE BEF ! PR RY BUY T U O S YO

Meadow Mill

FURNITURE & BED COMPANY. PORTWOOD, STOCKPORT

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The recliner for you Relax in comfort With a choice of manual or electric actions.

It’s important that you choose the recliner that fits you, that’s why all the recliners we supply are available in at least two size options. This plus a choice of 5 manual or powered actions means that we can create the chair thats perfect for you.

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With Single or Dual Motor Lift/Tilt action.

Matching settees and action suites The combination of beautifully tailored settees and the latest technology in recliner action means your recliner need never be the ‘odd’ chair in the room. We offer matching settees and suites, co-ordinated with each model range, in both fine leather and hard-wearing fabric.

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£50 OFF on spend of £500 or more ONLY 1 VOUCHER PER CUSTOMER MEADOW MILL FURNITURE & BED COMPANY STOCKPORT

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MEADOW MILL, WATER ST, STOCKPORT SK1 2BX

AT JCT 27, M60, NEXT TO TESCO EXTRA OPEN: MON-SAT 9.30AM-5.30PM, SUN 11AM-4PM VISIT: www.meadowmillfurniture.com

0161 480 8670

● Kitchens ● Bathrooms ● Bedrooms ● Home Studies ● Fireplaces

e Sal r e t Win on

! nogewSavings Hu

Home Improvements on a budget with Gemini. Don’t move, improve! Who said that improving your home has to cost a fortune? Not the team at Gemini Home Improvements. They believe in keeping the cost down without compromising on quality. Gemini is the home improvement specialists based in Hazel Grove, Stockport. The family at the heart of the business understand the need for a complete fitting service and offers a free professional plan & design for kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms and fireplaces. There is an impressive showroom with a large range of kitchens, sliding wardrobes, beautifully fitted bathrooms and impressive fires and fireplaces on display, as well as a whole host of well know appliances, worktops and tiles. During their winter sale you can save up to 60% off selected door ranges, and they are offering a oven, hob and extractor pack for just £349. Gemini also offer a full makeover service you can have new doors, worktops and tiling fitted giving your kitchen a whole new look at a fraction of the price of a new kitchen. Or take advantage of Gemini’s amazing bathroom offer. For just £2995 you can have a completely fitted bathroom suite including tiling and fitting. There are many different designs to choose from.

The company have expert fitting teams which are able to undertake all types of work including plumbing, tiling, plastering, electrical work and boiler replacement. They can even build you an extension to fit your new kitchen or bathroom in!! And all work carried out is fully project managed by a team of expert staff so you can sit back and relax. GAS FIRES START FROM AS LITTLE AS £199 AND YOU CAN BUY A COMPLETE ELECTRIC FIRE SUITE FOR £249. There is an excellent range of fireplace packages to choose from with a complete marble suite with either a gas or electric fire for as little as £499 on production of this advert. You can choose surrounds made from wood, marble and limestone with a large choice of electric or gas fires to complement them. The company have gas safe engineers on hand to install your chosen fireplace and fire and knowledgeable friendly staff to help you make the right choices for your home There are many more offers to choose from at Gemini so why not visit the showroom on London Road, Hazel Grove and get a great deal on a new kitchen, bedroom or bathroom. Gemini is open seven days a week from 10am. Call 0161 484 4111 to book a free consultation or visit www.geminikbb.co.uk

FULLY FITTED BATHROOMS FROM £2995 INCLUDING TILING ● FREE plan and design ● Replacement doors

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● All makes of appliances supplied & fitted ● Professional installation ● Fully project managed

0161 483 4111

213 London Road Hazel Grove Stockport - SK7 4HS (Opposite Civic Hall) Car Park At Rear www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

www.geminikbb.co.uk

Opening Hours Mon - Fri 10am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 4pm Sunday 11am - 4pm 33

The Bed Studio Collection A Collection Of Beautifully Hand Made Exclusive Sleep Systems Available to You From

Support your back because it supports you We are a caring true family run business whose reputation has been built on trust, good customer service and recommendation by our valued customers. Indeed many of our customers keep in contact and pop in for a coffee and a chat. The Bedshop@Byles is based on the ground floor at Byles The Homemaker Centre in Hyde, Cheshire. Over the many years we have always given good honest and practical advice. Nick Hanson, the owner of the business has been selling beds for over twenty years. Bedding manufacturers have sought his opinion and knowledge to design and manufacture new products. A number of the models are on display in the showroom. Nick’s wife, Sharon, has also become involved in the family business. Sharon, a qualified Remedial Therapist, is on hand to help customers choose a bed/mattress just right for them. My knowledge as a therapist helps me understand how important it is for customers to have a good nights sleep. If you are constantly waking up, turning over or just uncomfortable in bed this puts more tension in the body. Muscles become tense and sleep patterns become disturbed, moods change and it soon

becomes a cycle of counting sheep and stressful sleep. With a good nights sleep you wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead. There is such a range of beds and mattresses now available that it can be a bit daunting trying to find just the right bed for you but with Nick and Sharon’s knowledge they'll help guide you through the process. We have recently branded our own range of memory foam mattresses. Exclusively designed and manufactured in the UK by our trusted suppliers who we are really proud of. Our memory foam mattress are encapsulated in a removable OutlastTM cover. Outlast technology originates from the space industry. It was originally developed for NASA used in Astronaut’s space suits to control temperature fluctuations. Over the years Outlast technology has been used for many other uses and products for the home are now featuring Outlast technology in them. Outlast offers a unique climate regulation for less sweating and chilling. These mattresses are available either as a pocket sprung mattress with memory foam or a Reflex base which does not does contain springs. Each mattress offers superb pressure relieving properties.

Our designed mattresses are only available from the bedshop@byles

Made in Britain by Craftsmen

Give us a call or pop in today

0161 368 2006

Invest in a good bed... Easy you might say but we find that 90% of people we see have no idea of what a good nights rest really is or how to achieve this; most people tend to pick too firm a mattress which can lead to an uncomfortable nights sleep, back ache and stiffness in the joints. Support and firmness are not the same thing. You can achieve firmness by lying on the floor but the floor does not give you any support so all you achieve is an uncomfortable nights sleep (if any) you will move and turn more on a firm surface due to your own body weight cutting off the blood circulation, the more we move whilst asleep the more muscles are used resulting in waking up just as tired as we were when we went to bed in the first place. Considering that we are estimated to spend a third of our life in bed that means that by the time we are fifty we have spent sixteen years in bed â&#x20AC;Ś.. worth wile investing in a good bed. The National Bedding Federation recommends that we change our beds every 8-10 years. We loose an average of half a pint of moisture per person per night into our mattress and most mattresses are a haven for dust mites over time. These conditions will affect our health and well being. General wear and tear will mean that the mattress is not as supportive as it was when we originally purchased new so take a regular look at your mattress. Would you let your neighbour see it without its sheets on?

The weight of the mattress do we want to turn it and can we turn it? Will I be able to turn the mattress in another five years? We now need to think about the height of the bed - too low and its difficult to get out off. Too high and we need step ladders to get in it. We can bespoke our beds to your individual needs and also offer a range of electrical adjustable beds too. We are the only bed retailer to have a fully Qualified Remedial Therapist in Store every Saturday to give advice on particular types of mattresses that can help with particular problems such as hip and joint pain we offer this service because we care about our customers and are committed to helping people choose the right type of bed for their needs. When you call into the showroom you will be speaking to Nick or Sharon. We also offer a no obligation call out service for home visits as we understand that some of our customers may find it difficult to visit the showroom. So if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to invest in great nights sleep and need excellent advice then look no further visit us or ring us.

Support your back because it supports you.

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Call for ‘EMPTY NESTERS’ to think about FOSTERING

20 sessions of radiotherapy, which had a massive impact on Keith’s health. Our family and many friends supported us and kept us focused and on track.”

Long-serving Stockport foster carer Pat Peacock is calling on ‘empty nesters’ in the Heatons to consider fostering local children. The Council’s fostering service is taking part in the ‘You Can Foster’ campaign encouraging Stockport parents whose children have just left for university or left home to get jobs, to become foster carers. Pat, aged 62, featured in the current ‘You Can Foster’ advert on Granada TV, is a single carer who became a foster carer at the age of 50. She told Moor magazine: “Parents who enjoy family life may be dreading the thought of an empty nest as their own children leave home for university. Fostering is extremely rewarding. It is a great way of extending your family and offers experienced parents the opportunity to use their parenting skills to help shape a child’s future for the better.” We would

love to hear from anyone who may be interested so that we can match children in need of a home with a foster family. Stockport is particularly looking for people able to offer a home to teenagers and siblings. However there are many different schemes in Stockport and one might just be right for you. Pat’s own life has been anything but straightforward. She is the second of four children to Harry and Betty Wright. “I met my husband Keith in 1966 in Bramhall Park and married 18 months later when I was 17 and seven months pregnant. My parents although devastated helped us as much as possible and gave all their support in many ways”. ”Our first son Darren weighed only 3lb 15oz and after a very difficult birth lived for only seven hours. Fifteen months later our son Dean was born followed three years later by our daughter Sally.” “In 2003 Dean was diagnosed with a very rare cancer. In one so young this had a devastating impact on all our lives and after a very brave and courageous fight Dean died. In 2005 I too was diagnosed with cancer, had a hysterectomy and

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“2006 seemed to be a turning point in my life. My health returned to normal, our foster child Jamie had flown the nest and settled in a job. We were very sad to see him leave but were very proud of all that he had achieved. This was short lived when Keith took ill suddenly was admitted to hospital and died the same day. However, the quiet life is certainly not for me! I want to do what I do best - foster more children, look to the future and be happy again.”

Could you foster?

If you feel that you could come forward to be trained as a skilled foster carer who can help create a better future for society’s most vulunerable children, then come and join Stockport’s outstanding fostering team.

Stockport has been rated as outstanding since 2007 by Ofsted and recognised as having a “diverse group of carers” who are given “outstanding support to meet the needs of children and young people”. What we can offer you?

Our dedicated team of experienced social workers offer: l

Excellent training, support and supervision to foster carers l Ongoing professional development to carers with access to professional qualifications and diplomas l Opportunities for personal development l Competitive allowances and financial rates.

Call 0161 947 4646 or visit the website www.stockport.gov.uk/fostering You can find out more about the You Can Foster campaign go to www.youcanfoster.org

We’re with you every step of the way. 37

THE LONDON OLYMPICS THIS YEAR HAS MADE MANY OF US THINK ABOUT TAKING UP A NEW SPORTING ACTIVITY OR IMPROVING OUR FITNESS AND AGE SHOULD CERTAINLY PROVIDE NO BARRIER. A new interest introduces us to new people, and offers us the chance to feel well both physically and mentally. Physiotherapist Karen Willcock points out that, while we can’t turn back the clock, we can slow down or even reverse the symptoms of ageing with the help of exercise. “The risks of back pain, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, the possibility of having a fall, dementia and some cancers can all be lessened by regular exercising no matter what age we start,” she explained. Strength, balance, stretching and endurance exercises are all recommended and found in a variety of sports and

activities - “but always talk to your doctor first, warm up beforehand, don’t just be a ‘weekend warrior’ – and listen to your body,” added Karen. But what to take up? While being over 50 may be a little late to suddenly excel in rigorously physical sports like gymnastics, there are still many activities that offer an enjoyable challenge - and fun. If walking appeals to you, this is one of the easiest activities to enjoy. You just need a good, strong pair of shoes or walking boots, waterproofs and light, breathable clothing. You can start with a shorter walk and build up or just find your favourite distance. Elizabeth Oakes, aged 59, began walking as a past-time 14 years ago because she was involved in organising treks and other sporting events for charity Children Today. “I started taking regular walks of two and a half miles around the estate where I live because I could do that anytime, and then built up at the weekends,” she said. These days, she will typically go out on a Saturday afternoon for a three-hour walk and has trekked in exotic spots like Borneo – all with her trusty walking boots that cost £130 when she first began. “That’s one expense that’s been very worthwhile!” she added. “Walking is great! You enjoy the fresh air, the surrounding countryside and feel loads better afterwards.” There are often local walking groups, councils may organise walks or go the website of the Ramblers Association www.ramblers.org.uk or the British Walking Federation www.bwf-ivv.org.uk One sport anyone can try at a local sports centre quite cheaply is badminton. It’s a fast sport that involves hitting a shuttlecock across a net and trying to prevent your opponent from getting it back, improving hand-eye coordination and movement. Racquets start at around £8 for a basic type and go up to £150 for top-of-the-range carbon fibre models. You need a tube of shuttlecocks, light trainers suitable for indoor wear and t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms or shorts. There are probably badminton clubs in your area; find out more from Badminton England at www.badmintonengland. co.uk All ages love the social inter-action and exercise available in tennis either at a local club, sports centre or courts in the park. Like badminton, you need a racquet, starting from £15

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up to £150, outdoor trainers or sports shoes and light clothing. Find out about local clubs and facilities from the Lawn Tennis Association at www.lta.org.uk Like tennis and badminton, table tennis is a sport for all levels of fitness and also for those with disabilities or just restricted movement. Clubs and sports centres often have table tennis tables set up and informal games are great fun. Light clothing and indoor trainers are ideal and bats cost from around £3 to £100. Play informally with friends or grandchildren, or find out about clubs in your area from the English Table Tennis Association at www.elta.co.uk A fast-growing sport that people who’ve enjoyed squash may really like is racketball. It’s played on a squash court with similar rules but with a bigger ball, which means you don’t have to warm it up before play, and a shorter racket - all of which makes the game easier than squash. Doug Tobutt, a 62 year-old sports retailer who was a keen squash player before he gave it up for running, has recently taken up the sport. He reports that it’s become very popular especially in Nottingham and parts of Yorkshire. “It’s great fun,” he said, “and several players who had to give up squash through injuries are making their comeback at racketball – me included!” For more details go to the British Squash and Racketball Association at www.uk-racketball.com Many older people currently play bowls, whether crown green or flat depending on where you live around the country. It’s a sociable, fresh air activity that demands good hand-eye co-ordination and discerning judgement and can often be seen on greens around our parks and at private bowling clubs during the warmer months. Comfortable clothing is a must for this. The bowls are expensive to buy – from around £53 to £100 – but you can pick up second-hand bowls on ebay and elsewhere at a fraction of that price. Find out about local facilities on crown green bowling from the British Crown Green Bowling Associatin at www.bowls.org or flat bowling at Bowl England’s website www.bowlsengland.com

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You don’t have to have a costly bike to enjoy cycling around country lanes, roads or dedicated tracks. While a new bike might cost a couple of hundred pounds it’s possible to pick one up second-hand on ebay or via newspaper advertising columns. There are many cycling clubs around the country, local councils often arrange rides for beginners around areas and Sky Rides are organised community rides for all the family. Find out about them at www.goskyride.com or about other cycling events from British Cycling at www. roadcyclinguk.com If there is one sport that’s bound up in England’s history it’s archery. It’s not necessary to live in Sherwod Forest to try it in 2012, though, as it’s a very accessible sport and the most popular type of archery is at a stationary circular target. Again, this is a sport for all ages and all levels of fitness including people in wheelchairs, and there are clubs all over the country many of which have their own bows for beginners to try. Contact Archery GB via www.archerygb. org Older people find yoga and Pilates especially beneficial and enjoyable. Explained teacher Linda Obertelli-Roden: “As we get older our flexibility reduces, muscles may shorten and tighten. Yoga can help get people flexible again.” Yoga is a spiritual, mental and physical discipline which goes back thousands of years. “It concentrates on posture and breathing and is very helpful for stiff joints as well as being a great de-stresser”, added Linda. “You can join a class or buy a DVD and practise at home.” Pilates is also about mind and body working together. Its movements help create a strong core, abdominals and spine – “which is also very useful as we get older,” said Linda. Light loose clothing is best, and you can buy a mat from supermarkets or stores from around £5. Classes for both are widespread but check for accredited teachers via governing bodies including the British Wheel of Yoga at www.bwy.org.uk and for Pilates, the Register of Exercise Professionals at www.reps.netxtra.net 39

O U T

ABOUT

The Vintage Village Here you will find quality authentic vintage clothing and accessories for men and women, vintage jewellery, homewares and collectables, upcycled vintage and locally handmade crafts. There’s so much to see, at very affordable prices with some great bargains to be found. Our pop-up ‘village’ appears on the second Sunday of every month, from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm in Stockport’s glorious Victorian Covered Market Hall. This cast-iron and glass landmark is centrally located, clearly signposted, easy to find and well-served by public transport, and there’s plenty of nearby car parking too, most of it free on Sundays. And don’t miss Room at the Top Vintage Goods, a charming little vintage centre in the equally historic Produce Hall just a few steps away from Stockport Market Hall, which is open during every Vintage Village fair.

There’s Nuffin like a Puffin! Lyme Park & Gardens, Disley, Cheshire SK12 2NX Tel: 01663 762023 3rd November - 17th February 2013 A rare opportunity to view original illustrations and the chance to explore some of the most loved children’s stories. The Borrowers, The Very Hungry Caterpillar and

Spot the Dog are just some of the titles on loan for the first time from Seven Stories, the Centre for Children’s Books. Garden and gallery admission applies. NT members free Prices: Child £3.50 per ticket. Adult £7.00 per ticket. Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.

Macclesfield Mystery and Folklore Macclesfield Silk Museum, Roe Street, Macclesfield Cheshire SK11 6UT. Tel: 01625 613210 14th November. Opening time 7.30pm. Doug Pickford presents a talk entitled ‘Macclesfield Mystery and Folklore’. In this talk Doug Pickford will unfold the secrets and legends which have grown up around Macclesfield. Prices: Adult £4.00 per ticket. Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.

Winsford Christmas Street Festival Old High Street, Winsford, Cheshire. Friday 23rd November. 4pm – 7pm Visit Father Christmas, Live Music Stages, Christmas Market, Street Entertainment and a funfair. Lantern Parade leaves Winsford Cross Shopping Centre at 4.30pm. Christmas Light Switch on at 5pm, Fireworks at 7pm

Stockport Designer Craft Show Stockport Art Gallery. 24 November 2012 to 27 January 2013. Bubble met Tweet whilst obsessing over print and cake. Their shared love of pattern and colour kick started their print affair and with a pencil and squeegee to hand they 40

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got busy! Inspired by natural forms, their doodles are given the Bubble & Tweet design twist and lovingly hand screenprinted onto select fabrics and specialist papers. Their creations will make you bubble over with joy and leave you tweeting with pleasure!

Celebrate the festive season in regal surroundings .... Christmas Dinner Dances Wednesday 12th & Thursday 13th December l

Christmas at Tatton Park Christmas Lantern Parade Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 6QN

l l

Pre-order from our delicious 3-course menu Glass of house champagne on arrival Doors open from 7pm - sittings between 7.30pm - 9.30pm in The Staterooms Option to stay overnight in our luxury bedrooms for £225 per room

7th December. 6pm to 8pm. Free event. Tel: 01625 374400 Father Christmas arrives at Tatton Park during a beautiful lantern parade - enjoy the glow and atmosphere of this wonderful welcome. Light his route with your own handmade lanterns as he makes his way through the twighlight parkland to Tatton’s festive stableyard. Say hello to his two favourite reindeer Prancer and Dancer. Bring along your Christmas wish list to pop into our special posting box.

Please bring along any no longer wanted toys to donate to the Manchester Children’s Hospital. (The Manchester Children’s Hospital charity works to make a difficult time easier for its parents and their families and treats children from across the North West. Its the largest children’s hospital in the country with over 180,000 patient visits per year. The toys donated will be used on the hospital’s Outpatients, Accidents and X-Ray departments.) The Gift Fair, shops and restaurant will be open for seasonal shopping and dining until 7:30pm. To help make your own lantern for this event, pop along to Tatton Park where ‘how to make’ sessions will be held in the Stableyard barn room, for more details visit the Tatton Park website www.tattonpark.org.uk Admission is free and car park entry charges do not apply for this event only. For further information about the lantern parade please call Bridget Roberts on 01625 374405.

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To book a table for two or more please contact the Events Team on 01405 861662

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CHRONNELL HIBBERT S

LADIES WOULD YOU LET YOUR MAN CHOOSE YOUR LIPSTICK? There are many reasons to make or update your Will. For instance:• do either or both of you have children from a previous marriage or relationship? If you do and you wish to ensure that both families ultimately receive a fair share of your joint assets then a properly and professionally drawn Will should be able to achieve this.

He may be able to offer informed comments upon global warming and world peace and possibly even put up the odd shelf, if you can drag him away from the television, but can you rely upon him to ensure that you and your family enjoy a secure and trouble free retirement. Probably not! You have now reached an age when you should both be able to enjoy your retirement but eventually we all have to take responsibility for ensuring that we have done as much as we can to make life as easy as possible both for our spouse, partner and children. It is hard enough getting him to write a birthday card or a christmas card what chance is there that he will ever get round to making or revising his Will! In order to ensure as trouble free retirement as possible every person, and particularly every person over the retirement age should consider the following:

MAKING A WILL.

If you do not have a Will why not? If you do have a Will did you make it years ago when family and financial circumstances were totally different and is it still relevant to your circumstances today?

• do either of you suffer from a disability or chronic health condition that may mean at some time in the future there is a real possibility of one of you having to go into long term retirement care. If so, a properly drawn Will should enable you to ensure that a significant part of your assets go to your children or other family members and are not tied up funding retirement home fees indefinitely. • do you have a son/daughter who is presently undergoing a divorce or is thinking of getting a divorce. If they are presently named as a beneficiary under your Will would you wish to take the risk of you dying and your childs inheritance from you being taken into account in any matrimonial financial settlement - again steps can be taken to avoid this in your Will.

wish to move house without first applying to the Court of Protection to be appointed as your spouse’s Deputy. This process can be both expensive and time consuming and it is highly advisable that every person considers making a Power of Attorney and you may wish to consider appointing your spouse/partner and/ or one or more of your children to act jointly as your Attorney under a Lasting Power of Attorney rather than relying on the Court to make such an appointment.

EQUITY RELEASE

Many people whether as a couple or alone find themselves in a situation where they do own a house which has no mortgage on it but have little or no savings and only a modest income to live on. No one has an obligation to leave their family an inheritance, you can obtain an Equity Release Loan which releases part of the capital value of the house for you to spend on yourself whether it is to be able to afford holidays or just to make the house a more comfortable place for you to live and occupy for as long as possible during your retirement. Equity Release is not appropriate to everybody’s family/ financial circumstances but we can ensure you receive independent professional financial advice on the suitability of Equity Release to your particular needs without any further obligation.

POWER OF ATTORNEY

Were a husband or wife to lose the capacity to be able to deal with their own affairs for instance having suffered a stroke or dementia, the spouse has no automatic rights to be able to deal with and manage their affairs. You would not be able to access any funds in any Bank account in your spouse’s sole name nor to sell any jointly owned property if you

For further information please call Anna Perry or David Williams 0161 368 3434 Or email anna.perry@hydesolicitors.co.uk OR david.williams@hydesolicitors.co.uk

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