Stockport & Trafford issue 57

MARCH - MAY 2019

STOCKPORT & TRAFFORD EDITION 57

Katherine Jenkins

FROM POPSTAR TO OPERA STAR

Kwoklyn Wan

AMAZING CHINESE FOOD AT HOME

What's On

A GUIDE TO WHAT IS HAPPENING IN YOUR AREA

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

OUT NOW - our 2019 ‘Door to Door’ brochure If you’ve not tried coach holidays before why not let Ellen Smith’s take you on your first coach experience. We’ve been established for over 120 years – so we know a bit about coaching holidays!

We do things a bit differently than our rivals

All our tours include our ‘Door to Door’ service. That means that you are picked up by a taxi or small minibus right from your front door. No feeders, no interchanges, no changing coaches, no changing drivers and definitely no hassle!

How does it work?

On the morning of travel we pick you up at a prearranged time and take you to our waiting coach at Birch Services.

OR O D TO R O O urs D o T h Coac

We’re off on holiday then!

The same happens on the way back too, taxi back to your front door!

Within 30 minutes

We normally have everyone on board and we’re on our way.

We often have a second pickup at Stockport, but again this is timed for minimal delay.

We are fully Financially Bonded

And use some excellent privately-owned hotels. All visits and excursions are included in the price. We use modern coaches and mature friendly drivers.

We never discount

o.uk

smith.c n e l l e . www

hip Members 8 No: 1022

We charge the correct price in the first place – therefore everybody on board pays the same price.

Finally

If you can find the same or similar holiday for sale cheaper in the UK we’ll refund the difference to the whole coach!

Once you’ve gone the Ellen Smith way you’ll never go back!

A SELECTION OF OUR 2019 COACH TOURS

DOO RT Coa O DOO ch T R o u rs

www .ellen

smith

.co.u

k Membe rship No: 10228

Oban, Mull, Iona & Staffa The Royal Hotel

Tenby - The Giltar Hotel

Overview: For this tour we are based in Oban and enjoy a scenic route through the beautiful island of Mull with a visit to the island of Iona. The highlight of this tour is the awe-inspiring visit to the unique island of Staffa to see the hexagonally jointed columns of basalt as well as Fingal’s Cave.

Overview: With its pastel coloured buildings, narrow streets, fortified walls and bustling atmosphere, Tenby is one of the prettiest resorts in South Wales. It is justly proud of its golden beaches and picturesque harbour. Whether you take a stroll through the town or along the beaches or enjoy a ride along the Pembrokeshire Coast, Tenby is an ideal base.

22nd April - 5 Days - £359

28th April - 6 Days - £469

Exploring The Scottish Highlands The Nethybridge Hotel

Overview: You can lose yourself within the stunning scenery of The Highlands, with its majestic mountains and mysterious lochs as we journey through this beautiful land.

29th April - 5 Days - £329

Perthshire & The Angus Coastline The Salutation Hotel

Historic Wales & River Tales Holiday Inn Bristol-Filton

10th June - 5 Days - £379

17th June - 5 Days - £369

24th August - 4 Days - £329

The Causeway Coaster Inishowen Gateway Hotel

Blackpool - Doric Hotel

Paignton - The Palace Hotel

Overview: Paignton, part of the stunning English Riviera, situated on the South Devon coastline in sheltered Torbay. Like all of Torbay, Paignton was frequented by Victorians and some of the architecture still remains. Parts of Paignton can be found in the Domesday Book and it has been a small fishing port in years gone by.

Overview: Perthshire is a region of breathtaking variety, from its serene glens and endless expanse of lush forest to its bleakly beautiful moors, rushing rivers and tumbling waterfalls. We also take time to visit the Angus Coastline with stops in Arbroath and the lovely coastal town of Montrose.

Overview: We enjoy a tour to the very north of Ireland taking in the Inishowen Peninsula, the Walled City of Derry and a classic coastal rail journey to find the Giants Causeway.

Overview: Blackpool is Britain’s most loved holiday destination, which should come as no surprise when you think about the huge range of attractions available all year round. If you are feeling adventurous take a trip up the famous Blackpool Tower, or get your adrenaline pumping at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

8th September - 6 Days - £499

7th October - 5 Days - £269

Overview: Explore the unique history of South Wales and the border region on this short break. From the largest castle in Wales to the abbey which inspired Turner and Wordsworth, South Wales and the Wye Valley make for a truly memorable visit.

The Beautiful Lake District The Cumbria Grand Hotel

Overview: Immortalised by artists, poets & writers The Lake District plays host to the many visitors who return year after year to enjoy the magnificent scenery.

25th November - 5 Days - £279

INTERESTED?

Call our reservations office on 01706 648126 and request a copy of our 2019 brochure. You’ll be surprised at the variations of tours we operate. Visit our website at www.ellensmith.co.uk

Find us on facebook (search for ellensmithtours) Membership No: 10228

CONTENTS

|

50 plus magazine

10-11 Time to get in the Garden…Pull Weeds… not your back!

Gardening can be a wonderful workout as we have to bend and twist, reach and pull.

Gardening can be enjoyable, but it is important to stretch your muscles before reaching for your gardening tools. The back, upper legs, shoulders, and wrists are all major muscle groups affected when using your green thumb.

A warm-up and cool-down period is as important in gardening as it is for any other physical activity. To make gardening as fun and enjoyable as possible, it is important to prepare your body for this type of physical activity.

If you feel muscle aches and pains after your day in the garden, there are ways to alleviate the discomfort. Apply a cold pack on the area of pain for

the first 48 hours or apply a heat pack after 48 hours, and consider seeking the services of a doctor of chiropractic in your area.

Doctors of chiropractic (DCs) practice a drug-free, hands-on approach to health care that includes patient examination, diagnosis and treatment. While best known for their expertise in treating the musculoskeletal system and their use of spinal manipulation, DCs have broad diagnostic skills and are also trained to recommend therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises, as well as to provide nutritional, dietary and lifestyle counselling.

Consider visiting a doctor of chiropractic next time gardening activities leave you with aches and pain.

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

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

OFFER PRICE £25 Expiry date 31st May 2019

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

£25.00 (Normally £110.00) Offer open to new patients only.

We treat these conditions • Headaches, back pain, neck pain • Prevention of migraines • Muscle spasms, joint pain • Tired all the time, tension

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

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

4

CONTENTS ...

5 TWITTER

By Angela Kelly 6-7

10 top things to do and see In Croatia

10-11

KATHERINE JENKINS From Popstar to Opera Star

13-14 HOME

Bring Spring into your Home 18-20

food & drink Cook amazing Chinese at Home

22-23

plan for your future To enjoy today!

24-26

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

29-30 YOUR DOCTOR

Tips on how to stay healthy 28 FREE HEALTH TALKS AND MINI CONSULTATIONS

At BMI The Alexandra Hospital

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

TWITTER

throughout the day for messages, emails, texts, Messenger and What’s App groups etc.

Everyone wants to stay in touch with the people who matter to us, in business, socially and personally.

So, this is somewhere to start with phone justice. There should surely be a way (or research needs to be focused that way) to prevent individuals having the use of their own phones for set periods of time. Our names and profiles would be blocked.

Is phone justice the way forward?

E

NFORCING justice in 2019 is always a matter of great discussion and can prompt a generational approach.

Older people, brought up in a tougher and probably more straightforward age, tend to want old-fashioned justice.You know, you do something wrong, you pay the price, whether that’s making reparation to an individual, doing something for the community or just going to jail.

Then, for example, anyone caught using a phone while driving would automatically lose it for, say, 60 days plus a fine. Loss of access to any form of mobile service would massively affect people, especially younger people who live on their phones.

This could also be rolled out as a second line of punishment for plenty of other crimes like drug dealing (where it might be particularly effective), drunk driving or dangerous driving. The potential is endless.

Could it work? Well, in today’s hi-tech world we can’t be that far away from such research findings so let’s give it a go. Thoughts, anyone?

Sorry, our Development Chief is just doing his homework ANYONE who has looked at the jobs’ market recently may be surprised by the sorts of posts that are available.

Sentencing today has to take into account bulging jails, the actual amount of cash available to deal with law-breakers and a court system that is constantly questioned.

Irrespective of personal opinions, though, there appears to be a fascinating trend of relevant justice that could be taken to some interesting logical conclusions.

Well, we have lost whole rafts of jobs, thanks to technology and cheaper imports. Our textile industry was long ago decimated, for example. And when I started out as a journalist in the dark ages of linotype, the newspaper I worked on had 90 compositors who worked with type. That job doesn’t even exist today.

Now, police remove the results of ill-gotten gains and sell them to aid the public purse.

Boats and posh houses have long been on the agenda for convicted criminals to lose to make restitution to society, along with other obvious trophies from criminal “achievements.”

Now there are hundreds of different new jobs, many of them online or in other hi-tech areas. New digital posts abound and many jobs have become digital, demanding fresh and different skills.

More recently, one criminal lost his entire collection of designer trainers which were sold off to raise public funds. He had prized these above all else so that’s got to hurt.

That got me thinking about what other things we could threaten to take off law-breakers - even minor ones-to effectively get the message across that what they did was wrong and there is always a price to pay. And the main answer was mobile phones.

Today, millions of us would be lost without our phones. Those in business check them

Some people now make a living from their hobbies, playing online games to an audience.

Their every move is streamed to others who wait, fascinated, for what happens next.

Then there are the social influencers - individuals who recommend online everything from food to make-up and holidays to other people. They’re paid well for their opinions because their influence is so great; a nod of approval from them can mean a product or service is sold out.

These jobs have nothing to do with age or experience, just their appeal to the very wide

|

50 plus magazine

audience out there wanting to know about the next big thing.

Amazingly, even small children can earn a fortune through their “job” online. In America, a seven year-old boy called Ryan earned $22 million (yes, you’re reading that right) in 2018 playing with and reviewing toys on YouTube. The lad even has his own range of toys in Walmart and Target.

As they say, the world is certainly changing.

Marriage CAN last for lucky lads like Harry and Tom IN a throwaway society when little is expected to last any length of time, relationships have become affected.

To many younger people, the idea of a long marriage- just like the idea of staying in one job for 40 years- is generally deemed daft and consigned to the past.

But all that was before Harry Redknapp and his wife Sandra stepped into the public eye. The erstwhile football manager turned I’m A Celebrity …Get Me Out Of Here! winner has been married to his wife for more than 50 years and, as he showed in the Australian jungle, he is still besotted.

He missed her terribly, spoke of her regularly and fondly and generally impressed all ages with their lengthy, loving relationship.

Film star Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson have broken the Hollywood mould by remaining married and faithful since they first got together in the 1980s. And, surprisingly, they both still seem affectionate and to actually like each other.

Astonishingly to some, the official average length of marriage in the UK is 30 years, usually ending with the death of a spouse.

Even the number of heterosexual couples getting divorced in England and Wales is at its lowest since 1973. According to the Office for National Statistics, this, though, is also consistent with the decline in the number of marriages and the increase in people living together rather than marrying.

Either way, there may well be a trend towards staying with the same person and promoting longevity in personal relationships.

Whatever happens in the next few years, it’s great to see loving couples like the Redknapps still caring for each other. And long may it last!

5

TRAVEL

|

50 plus magazine

50 Plus Travel

sponsored by have good taste – it’s an incredibly pretty port with a castle backdrop, cobbled backstreets, expansive squares and clear blue seas. Hvar is more than just the port though - we actually docked in Starigard, another delightful and much quieter harbour and only 30 minutes’ drive away.

Driving back along the country roads we got to see Hvar’s other claim to fame: the beautiful rural landscape, heady with the scent of lavender, pine and rosemary.

The old town of Dubrovnick

10 Top Things to Do and See in Croatia

By Cathy Bartrop for Silver Travel Advisor Back in the days of the former Yugoslavia, President Tito made one of his better decisions when he decreed that no multistorey construction could happen with 100 metres of the coastline. The Croatian government subsequently continued the policy and, as a result, the country can now boast what must be the most unspoilt and scenic coastline in Europe.

Here are my Top 10:

packed especially when up to 5 mega ships can be docked at once, spewing out up to 20,000 passengers. When we were there, late afternoon in early June, it wasn't too bad, we got to see all the main sites with relative ease but, for me, the most enjoyable bit by far was the cable car ride up Srd hill for the view back down on the Old Town. There are a couple of restaurants at the top but head for the Panorama Bar & Restaurant, next to the cable car station for unforgettable drinks with a view.

1. Dubrovnik Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, the medieval Old Town of Dubrovnik has long been a magnet for tourists. It’s also tiny, which means it gets

2. The 'Lavender Island' of Hvar Hvar has gained a reputation as party central in recent years, especially with students and backpackers. I must say they

One of the best ways to explore it is to take a cruise as I did on a filming trip with Noble Caledonia. Our ship was the Princess Eleganza, a gem of a small ship, carrying just 36 passengers and nimble enough to slip in to the smallest of ports.

What a joy is was to berth overnight in peaceful harbours and spend at least half of every day cruising.

6

Church of St Donat, Zadar

3. Captivating Korcula Neat alliteration but also very true Korcula is just lovely. It’s a tiny port, reputed to be the birthplace of explorer Marco Polo. They certainly milk the connection but it seems plausible enough as you wander the crooked streets and elegant squares flanked with palaces of old nobility. Another Marco, Marco Andijic, a 15th century stonemason played a part in creating the bell tower of the cathedral which gave us our 360 view of Korcula.

It’s a steep old climb but well worth the effort. NB Korcula now restricts cruise ships docking before 5pm.

4. Cocktails and sunset dining Still in Korcula, it was also memorable for its bars and restaurants. Massimo's must be one of the more unusual locations for a cocktail bar - atop a medieval tower.

Access is via a steep staircase and then a ladder up through a tiny hole - I very nearly got stuck on it with my back pack!

Fortunately the drinks are delivered more easily, via a winch and pulley system on the side of the tower. Along the waterfront there is a great selection of restaurants - by recommendation we plumped for Nonno's where the antipasti and homemade pasta dishes, even if a little pricey, were as good as anything I've eaten in Italy.

5. Churches, castles and palaces Croatia is awash with historic buildings.

Among the most memorable for me was a tour of Diocletian's Palace in Split - the approach to Split from the sea didn't look all that promising but then, just steps from the waterfront, you enter the complex

that the Roman Emperor Dioclea had built as his retirement Palace in AD 305.

Facing the sea on one side, it was built like a Roman military fortress with walls up to 700 feet long and 20 feet high, enclosing an area of 9.5 acres. Split's enchanting old town is within its walls. Zadar is equally as mesmerising - by the 1st century it too was a Roman Municipality. Over the centuries the city has been the subject of numerous assaults, not least more recently during the Yugoslav wars in the 90s.

6. Culture and tradition You come across so many examples of this in Croatia, from its citizens who are clearly proud of their musical traditions, crafts and heritage. The Dalmation ‘Klapa’ or ‘a capella’ singers perform daily in Split's vestibule within the palace walls.

The acoustics are unbelievable - needless to say they do a fine trade in CD's.

7. Zadar Sea Organs Back to Zadar for more music - slightly less harmonious but nonetheless appealing - this time from the famous Sea Organ running the length of the peninsula.

Completed in 2005, wave action pushes air through a series of underwater pipes and up through niches cut into the steps, producing random melodic notes. The

stronger the waves, the louder the music.

It’s a wonderful spot to watch the sun set.

At the end of the promenade there is also another installation 'Greeting to the sun', basically a huge round solar panel which radiates a random sequence of coloured lights at night. If the organ is the music, the sun is the disco dance floor!

8. Krka National Park Declared a National Park in 1985, Krka is an absolute stunner. Covering 109 square kilometres the park follows the River Krka about 2kms down river from Knin to Skradin. The most impressive and most visited waterfall is Skradinski Buk, considered one of the most beautiful cliff waterfalls in Europe. I can't argue with that. 650m of river create 12 waterfalls with a total height of 27m.

The falls themselves are stunning but walking through the shady woodland that surrounds them is also a delight especially on a hot day.

9. Zrmanja Gorge 43 miles long, the Zrmanja is one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe and a boat trip is a delightful way to witness the dramatically changing scenery. Starting off in lush green waterways, gradually the river widens and the banks brown,

eventually turning into sheer rock cliffs split by the blue sparkling water. And just as you begin to tire of looking at rock, suddenly you round a bend and the river opens up into a stunning lake.

10. Water, water everywhere The ever changing colour of the water is a constant delight on a tour of coastal Croatia. Beaches may be small and often shingle but to jump from a boat or a platform in to the crystal clear water is always delightful.

Factbox Cathy experienced the Croatian coast with Noble Caledonia on board the Princess Eleganza. For details visit www.noble-caledonia.co.uk.

Her video - 10 great things to see in Coastal Croatia - reflects that voyage and also reflects the beauty of the scenery, the ports, the National Parks, the culinary scene, the sunsets and everything else that makes Croatia such a popular tourist destination. Watch the video at www. travelguru.tv For general information about holidays in Croatia see www.visit-croatia.co.uk

Enjoy safe and stress-free senior living at Kirkstead Bridge Park, Woodhall Spa Begin your new lifestyle in a brand-new home within a secure and friendly community.

CALL TO BOOK YOUR PARK VISIT 01933 427800

www.tingdene-parks.net

MODERN RETIREMENT LIVING

WIDE RANGE OF PLOTS AVAILABLE 7

Explore the world your way

Antrim Coast to Antarctica! visit all seven continents with Shearings in 2019!

At Shearings we’ve been running escorted tours for more than 100 years and during that time we’ve learnt what makes a perfect holiday. As well as tours that explore the very best of both the UK and Europe, you can also journeymuch further afield with us, plus access incredible special events!

Our Worldwide holidays visit all seven continents and include adventurous itineraries to China, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and even Antarctica!

Within Britain and Ireland you can fly to a range of destinations including Devon, Cornwall, Isle of Man, Scotland, Ireland and the Channel Islands!! All our holidays are hand-picked and include great accommodation, return travel and a fantastic choice of excursions, all aimed at making your break as relaxing and enjoyable as possible.

Go by Air - We know the choice of holiday is personal to your customers, which is why we’ve created a variety of touring options when travelling exclusively by air, with a focus on flexibility and freedom. These holidays can be grouped into two main categories – ‘Tour & Explore’ and ‘Stay & Discover’

Tour & Explore a traditional escorted touring experience, with all elements of your itinerary included, such as all trips and hotels.

Stay & Discover handcrafted to ensure you are perfectly positioned for enjoying the best of a destination. Stay at one hotel and enjoy a number of expertly planned, included excursions as well as plenty of free time to explore.

For more information or to book, call 01942 412398 or visit shearings.com Request a brochure at shearings.com/brochure 8

Terms and conditions apply. All prices are ‘from’ prices and are based on 2 people sharing a standard twin/double room/cabin, and joining at an interchange, (coach holidays only). Single/room/cabin/flight supplements may apply. *Save up to £1,000 per couple is based on booking

10 DAYS FROM

Beautiful Bavaria £1,246PP to the Danube

Why choose Shearings?

MS Serenade 2 • 28 May 2019 Sail along the magnificent Main-Danube Canal admiring spectacular views and exploring beautiful riverside towns and cities. Delve into the history and heritage of Wurzburg, Nuremberg, Bamberg and other superb destinations.

Also available by air & rail.

Costa Rica Adventure

UP TO

£1,000 per couple

The UK’s largest escorted tour company

8 DAYS FROM

£1,794PP

March – November 2019 Discover one of the world’s greatest natural destinations on this all-encompassing adventure as we visit one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world. From the vibrant capital, to quaint settlements you will be awestruck by the natural beauty of Costa Rica.

Tutankhamun

SAVE

SHEARINGS

Over 100 years of experience

Award-winning holidays

Low deposits, from £65pp∆

Up to 20kg luggage included in price†

2 DAYS FROM

Treasures of the Golden Pharoh

£99PP

Over 600 pick up points nationwide

Flexible travel options by coach, car, air and rail

Over 200 destinations worldwide

Trusted hotels in excellent locations

November - May 2019 See Ancient Egypyt’s amazing treasures as TUTANKHAMUN: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh comes to London. See over 150 artefacts, some displayed outside Egypt for the first time between November 2019 and April 2020.

Also available by rail.

using code NFP909S a Mozart or Chopin deck cabin on the MS Serenade 2 and boking before the 15/03/19. Advertised prices already include any relevant saving. ∆£65 deposit is based on UK coach holidays of 2-5 days only. †On UK and European coach holidays only. Prices correct as of 22/02/19. E&OE.

9

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

|

50 plus magazine

KATHERINE JENKINS POPSTAR TO OPERA STAR – operatic arias, popular songs, musical theatre and hymns. As she recalled: “I’ve only ever wanted to be a singer. I never wanted to be famous.”

The mezzo soprano from Neath in South Wales has become a firm national favourite over the past 18 years

Katherine and her sister Laura were raised in a loving home. Bright and hard-working, she received A grades in her GCSEs and A levels and took part in college musical productions. She passed her Grade 8 exams in both singing and playing the piano with distinction.

Just by way of starting her professional career, in 2004, she was given a rare six-album deal by Universal. This was the most lucrative in the UK’s classical recording history and reportedly worth £1 million. Six out of seven of these albums have reached No.1 in the UK classical charts. She also became the first female artist to win two consecutive Classical Brit Awards.

Blessed with a beautiful voice, Katherine has always impressed because she moves effortlessly between all kinds of music 10

Katherine was a member of the Royal School of Church Music Cathedral Singers and gained its highest award for female choristers. She was also a member of the National Youth Choir of Wales and won the BBC Radio 2 Choirgirl of the Year contest twice.

“

I have such happy memories of performing in a choir and I don’t think I’d have got where I am today without all that experience

“

BRIDGING the gap between classical and mainstream music is especially difficult – but Katherine Jenkins has managed it beautifully.

“So my advice to young singers is to either join your school or church’s choir or find one in your local area. Choral music at any level teaches you so much about musicianship and blending your voice.”

Katherine was awarded a scholarship to study at the Royal Academy of Music, graduating with honours and receiving a music teacher’s diploma. She worked as a freelance voice coach, a tour guide on the London Eye and as a model. In fact, she

entered a modelling competition in 2000 and became The Face of Wales.

Andrea Bocelli and friends

Her pure tones were first properly heard when she sang in Westminster Cathedral in honour of Pope John Paul II’s silver jubilee in 2003. Then followed that amazing album deal.

On the advice of the original Forces’ Sweetheart, Dame Vera Lynn, in December, 2005 and 2006, she travelled to Iraq to sing to the soldiers for Christmas On her first visit, when travelling to Shaibah, the largest British base in Southern Iraq, the helicopter she was travelling in was targeted by missiles.

Anti-missile flares were deployed and the group landed safely – with true professional Katherine going on to perform for her appreciative audience.

Since those early appearances, she has toured extensively and successfully, becoming an all-round entertainer and appearing in prime-time TV hits like Strictly Come Dancing. She has sung at major sporting events, on TV shows and in support of many charities – and even appeared in “Dr Who”.

She plainly doesn’t limit herself and is always up for a challenge.

While chatting with TV presenter and magician Stephen Mulhern at a post-awards party in 2010, she happened to mention that she had always wanted to be sawn in half by a magician.

The result was that Mulhern invited her to appear on his Saturday Night phone-in game show Magic Numbers. Here, she acted as his assistant and Mulhern and singer Olly Murs sawed her in half inside a see-through box!

That same year, she was a mentor to the celebrity contestants as well as a judge on ITV’s “Popstar to Operastar”. In 2012, she competed on the American TV show “Dancing with the Stars” and finished second.

Katherine seems unaffected by fame. “I really see myself as a homegirl,” she stated. “Wales is my first home. London is my second home. I love coming back to Neath – this is home and always will be.”

Far from being a diva, she has a down-to-earth niceness that appeals to audiences. “Although I’m not shy when I’m singing,” she explained. “I am whenever I hear applause.

“I don’t know if you’ve noticed but I giggle a lot on-stage. That’s shyness. And the stage manager is always telling me to take a longer bow whenever I come off-stage. I still haven’t learnt to do that

properly. I see other artistes milking the applause but I can’t quite do it.”

Katherine has always said she wanted to get married and have a family and in September, 2014, she married New York artist Andrew Levitas. Their first child, daughter Aaliyah Reign, was born in September, 2015, and their son Xander arrived in April this year.

Now, when Katherine performs, she has the tough challenge of balancing work and motherhood. She told Fabulous Magazine recently that she breastfed Xander while backstage at the Classical Brit Awards.

Last year, she turned her talents to acting when she starred in the English National Opera’s revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s wonderful musical “Carousel.”

Next year, she undertakes a 22-venue tour across the UK through April and May, finishing in Belfast. which will no doubt please her many fans.

Katherine has always been interested in charity work – in 2014, she was awarded an OBE by the Queen for her charity work and services to music.

Whatever the future brings for Katherine Jenkins, it will be decided very much by her. As she once explained: “I have to believe that I know what’s best for me. For instance, I choose all my songs.

I never record anything I don’t want to record. No-one tells me what concerts to do.”

And, as long as Katherine Jenkins keeps singing and keeps pleasing her many fans, that will be good enough for them.

*For more details of Katherine Jenkins’ 2019 tour go to www.katherinejenkins.co.uk/live/ 11

26 years experience 26 years experience All Weather Plastics can and

•••UPVC Windows &&Doors UPVC Windows UPVC Windows Doors • UPVC Windows & Doors will SAVE you TIME and MONEY! •••Composite CompositeDoors Composite Doors Doors •26Composite years experience Doors •••French For fascias, soffits, windows •and doors and French Doors French Doors French Doors •UPVC Windows & Doors Doors •••Composite BiFold FoldDoors Doors •Bi Bi Fold Doors many more home improvement services.

Bi Fold •• French DoorsDoors && Gutters Fascias, Fold DoorsSoffits in fascias ••••Bi•Fascias, Fascias, Soffits Gutters Fascias, Soffits & Gutters ,26 Soffits & Gutters •sFascias, o f f itVerge sVerge • •Dry , wexperience years indows an Dry Verge • •Dry Dry Verge dd Dry Verge • Tudor l•• Mock Fascias, Soffits & Gutters oors Mock Tudor Mock Tudor • Mock Tudor & Doors Windows • •Velux Mock Tudor l• Upvc Windows Re-Roofs •• Full VeluxWindows Windows •Velux Velux Windows l • Rockdoors Velux Windows • We are members of l• Composite FullRe-Roofs Re-Roofs •Full Doors Full Re-Roofs • Full Re-Roofs • We are also o l French Doors approved d l Bi Fold Doors We are members of We are members We are membersof of

UPVC SP ECIALIST S

26 years ex

• UPVC W indow • Compo site Do • French Doors • Bi Fold Doors • Fascias , Soffits • Dry Ve rge • Mock T udo • Velux W r indows • Full Re -Roofs

We are members of We are m Dry Verge embers o C l A Mock Tudor For more photos and addresses of completed LL Nalso We are a OW lso Weare are ojobs go to We also o F O Why choose us? are also o lWe R www.allweatherplastics.com Velux Windows A also We are o FREE appro Q Re-Roofs approved d l FullUO approved TATIO l Best Quality Products approved d N For more approved d photo ALL Work carried out comes with a s and add l 1000's of Satisfied Customers resses of Greatare products &excellent excellent after sales service 26 years experience w w 20% OFF complete Great products & after sales service w We members of . a l d jobs l w Great products & excellent after sales service e a t h 2 l Great products & excellent after sales service e all at a price you can afford 0 r Local Installations available to View p % ORDERS PLACED FREE Insurance Backed Guarantee l A a L s all at a price you can afford O t L •W ics.co oatalso allUPVC price you can& afford Windows Doors raakprice ORDERS PL FF caryou BEFORE 31st AUGUST all at can afford We are r l Unrivalled i e A C d Friendly Service E D o BEFORE 31s PLEASE QUOTE: FREE I•nComposite Doorsut comes w t AUGUST s u approved r ith a PLEASE Q a l n For more photos and addresses of completed jobs go go to to c Very Competitive Prices e Bacjobs UOTE: and addresses RR00818 For more photos ofofcompleted Doors • French k e d For more photos and addresses completed jobs go to G R u R a 0818 and addresses For more0photos completed to rantee l Insurance Backed Guarantees Great• products &Doors excellentjobs aftergo sales Biof Fold www.allweatherplastics.com Great products & excellent after sales service

all at a price you can afford

l

Great prod ucts & exce llent afte all a r sa

t a price

l

TEL: 01204 413924 TEL: 01254 www.allweatherplastics.com www.allweatherplastics.com 245706

No Deposits - Pay on Completion

service all at a price you&can afford Soffits Gutters • Fascias,

• Dry Verge • Mock Tudor • Velux Windows Since 1992 we have completed thousands of contracts so no matter where you live we WILL provide Re-Roofs • Full

We carried have satisfied customers near you.

ALL Work out comes with a ALL ALLWork Workcarried carriedout outcomes comeswith with aa ALL Work carried

FREEInsurance InsuranceBacked BackedGuarantee Guarantee FREE FREE Insurance Backed Guarantee FREE Insurance

you with a list of local addresses that show the quality of our latest work ... and the beauty of our old.

Come and see why so much of our business comes from our Below Weown arecustomers membersrecommendations. of is a selection of completed projects. For a more comprehensive list, please check our website.

TEL: 01204 413924 TEL: TEL: 01204 01204 413924 38 & 40 Walton Heath Drive Tytherington

5 Crossway BRAMHALL

are also o 12 TumblewoodWe Drive 54 Bluestone Drive approved d MERSEY CHEADLE HEATON

Great products & excellent after sales service 7, 9 & 10 Pochard Drive 3can & afford 30 Constable Drive all at a price you POYNTON MARPLE BRIDGE

For more photos and addresses of completed jobs go to

www.allweatherplastics.com www.allweatherplastics.com

Work out comes with now for acarried FREE no obligation quotea % OFFCall usALL

FREE Insurance Backed Guarantee

0161 480 5454

PLACED

st AUGUST

QUOTE:or

0818

TEL: 01204 413924

go to our website to make an appointment.

you can affo

HOME

|

50 plus magazine

BRING SPRING INTO YOUR HOME So, be honest about the state of your home decor. Have those vibrant colours become drab and tired? Should you opt for something brighter and cheerier?

“But, with the glorious weather comes a problem – the morning sun streaming through your windows well before it’s time to wake up!!

You know your own taste best so do choose colours that you like. Home experts Ikea suggest yellow as a way of welcoming in the new Spring season and brightening up our lives.

This can interrupt sleep and leave you feeling tired and grouchy for the rest of the day. Lee suggests looking at blackout blinds, “ranging from practical roller blinds to sturdy opaque wooden blinds and luxurious Roman blinds available with blackout lining” in all the 2019 fabric ranges.

Look for cushions, bedding or vintage crockery with delicate or exuberant floral designs to offset a pale backdrop. Wider expanses on wallpapers and fabrics will create more impact.

WHEN Spring is just around the corner we tend to have a sense of optimism and change that extends to our homes.

People start to have a clear-out and head for their nearest charity shop with boxes of unwanted household ornaments, curtains and even the odd small item of furniture.

It’s natural that the feeling of re-birth after the Winter “hibernation” should make us want to improve our own “habitat”.

But, how do you begin changing and improving your home without (a) spending a fortune and (b) finding a new style you’re happy to live with?

Perhaps the best way is to be completely objective about the state of your home currently. Pretend that you are a potential buyer and are viewing your property for the first time. What would be your impression and what would need to change?

COLOUR is vital to our lives and I’m afraid we can get stale about home décor, just accepting those paint and wallpaper shades around us without really examining them.

Small-scale blooms, trailing botanicals, classic gingham checks and ticking stripes, whether in subtle neutrals or brighter shades, will introduce decorative detail to any room. Animal and bird motifs can also do this vital job, especially with a seasonal theme like hares and chicks.

While textiles, curtains and rugs introduce subtle colour tones into different rooms to create an impact, you might prefer a bolder statement piece of furniture. These can be in the living room or the kitchen.

Brighter lighting – especially a modern pendant lamp or unusual upright lamp – not only brings light and an airy feeling into the smallest rooms but makes them look more modern.

Are your WINDOWS looking a bit worse for wear? New windows not only give a real facelift to your home but dramatically improve insulation while giving it a contemporary atmosphere. Look in local showrooms or go online for clever ideas to shed new light on your home.

This may also be just the time to plan that CONSERVATORY or ORANGERIE, giving you not only more space in your home but a lighter, up-to-date style to enhance daily living.

And consider enhancing your windows with the latest BLINDS. Lee Gunn from Benchmark Blinds in Bolton explained: “When the clocks spring forward we’re reminded that the sunnier seasons are within reach.

FURNITURE can reflect the family years like nothing else in a home. And, while we may love our battered old sofa, who is not to say that a new, smarter sofa won’t be equally comfortable?

By re-arranging furniture in a room you can quickly create a very different living space, one that reflects exactly your own lifestyle. Add some unusual cushions – either something with natural, earthy tones, in an unusual fabric or that complements curtains and carpets – and you have already brightened up your life.

CARPETS also tell the tale of family life and – be honest – it may be time you replaced them at home. There are now so many different carpets and styles you will be spoiled for choice, or you may prefer a wooden floor for those clean contemporary lines.

Spring is also often the time that people invest in a new KITCHEN and there are certainly plenty of fabulous kitchens to enhance your home.

If your budget isn’t up to that, how about just changing your unit doors for a fresh look? The cost is less and the effect comprehensively different.

Complement your new colour scheme with toning utensils, tea-towels and an eyecatching ornament or two. Or, find some really colourful artificial flowers and create a lovely display.

Try seasonal blooms to uplift the atmosphere – a bunch of early tulips arranged in a large jug or emerging narcissus and hyacinth bulbs potted into a trug, old wine crate or terracotta pots.

13

brand new one, consider having new covers for your old one. This gives old furniture a real facelift.

Many charities like the British Heart Foundation and Emmaus collect second-hand furniture to sell and you can pick up bargains there or in other local charity shops. Or, consider renovating an item yourself.

These instantly signal Spring like nothing else.

mirror that will brighten up this vital area.

After all, this is often the first impression that any visitor gets so let’s make it a positive one.

Search out old MIRRORS from charity shops and re-paint the frame to suit your new colour scheme. Ensuring that your signature colours are echoed throughout can keep that lovely sense of a change of seasons wherever you are in your home.

Use spotlights and clever lighting to keep this an extra light area and try and hide away items like shoe cupboards to improve the space available.

Look for quirky coat-hooks for the HALLWAY or an unusual painting or new

While it would be lovely to have a new living room SUITE, if you can’t afford a

A new BED is something we don’t always think about but a good night’s sleep is priceless. Add new bedding, especially with matching curtains and soft furnishings, and you’ve got a whole new-look bedroom.

Even a standard white BATHROOM can be made to look fresh with a new colour scheme in accessories, a toning jug of flowers or a trailing plant.

And if you want to extend that Spring renovation to the garden, now is a great time to plan changes.

You may be thinking of a minimalist Oriental approach or something more Mediterranean. The Royal Horticultural Society’s website has plenty of ideas so go to https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/design and see how the experts can help.

ColourFence Macclesf ield

Professionally installed fencing, gates & railings Get in touch for a FREE, no obligation quote & survey

ColourFence

Virtually maintenance free Withstands winds of 130mph Comes with a 25 year guarantee* Available with or without trellis ColourRail

Cheap alternative to wrought iron Variety of finishes & colours Bespoke sizes available Comes with a 10 year guarantee* Contact Chris Woodhouse on Tel: 01625 352001 Mob: 07970 559321 or visit colourfencemacclesf ield.co.uk

14

*full terms & conditions on website or on request.

Real lives

Give Your Property KERB APPEAL

Are you looking to transform the front of your house with an attractive new driveway?

I

f so, then a resin drive is well-worth considering.

Resin bound surfacing is a porous paving material made from a mixture of aggregate stones and resin. It combines the best attributes of other surfaces – the appearance of loose gravel, the strength of concrete and the flexibility of tarmac – whilst being easier to maintain than all three!

It’s environmentally friendly too – unlike bonded systems, a resin bound surface allows water to drain through just as Mother Nature intended, so you can minimise the impact on the environment and avoid puddles at the same time.

Resin bound surfacing comes in a choice of over 40 unique colours and is suitable for all types of properties and projects including driveways, patios, paths, terraces and roof gardens.

The benefits of a resin driveway

Slip resistant surface Adds value to your property No planning permission required Suitable for listed buildings, urban or rural properties ✔ Completely porous, so no puddles or floods ✔ Weed adverse materials ✔ Strong and durable so it will outlast other driveway options ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Sarah Beeny, property developer and TV presenter, is a big fan of resin drives. “Resin is definitely the perfect drive finish,” she says. “It’s so practical — being totally porous it drains brilliantly and doesn’t create puddles. It’s lovely to walk on, has a long-lasting durable finish and is available in an amazing range of colours.”

“It’s a bit like a little black dress. You can dress it up glitzy glam if you want a real Hollywood look, or it can blend perfectly with a natural rural setting.”

She recommends Resindrives.co.uk for their professional service and high-quality work on her driveway: “They arrived when they said they would, gave us a clear time schedule for the work and were finished early”, she says.

“All the fitters were polite and charming and properly cleaned up after themselves. They did a beautiful job and were complete perfectionists.”

Resindrives.co.uk have been installing resin driveways successfully since 2007. To find out more or get a free quote, call 0800 007 5733 or visit www.resindrives.co.uk.

15

HOME

|

50 plus magazine

MARK WILSON

A

BESPOKE FURNITURE

s bespoke furniture makers, Mark Wilson Furniture design, manufacture and install exquisite bespoke handcrafted furniture for kitchens, bedrooms, home offices, home cinema, bars and living areas made from the finest materials.

All our designs are entirely unique and create original solutions. We meet your individual needs complimenting your chosen lifestyle and there is no budget that cannot be met. All our furniture is handmade in our workshop.

We offer a tailored design and see all our projects as a concept through to final completion. For large scale projects, where multiple trades are required, our in-house project team provide a complete service to ensure you only have to deal with our company and the work is delivered on time to your complete satisfaction .

Mark Wilson has 20 years' experience of designing, manufacturing and installing bespoke furniture.

An investment in a fitted kitchen should suit and compliment your family and lifestyle. Whether you prefer the traditional country style kitchen or something unique, contemporary and stylish, Mark Wilson Furniture will meet your exact requirements and ensure it

16

becomes integral to your living. Through our expertise we can create your kitchen in any material using a variety of finishes.

We provide a complete service with our experience in design and manufacturing skills at the forefront. Our whole approach is to work with you to bring to life the initial design providing advice on work surfaces, colour & finish and appliances. We use our own team and see the installation as an integral part of the process when buying bespoke furniture.

We understand your bedroom is a very personal space and design you bedroom furniture to your exact specifications. Our bespoke storage solutions ensure clutter is kept to a minimum with a place for everything.

We use a wide range of finishes which will compliment any interior dĂŠcor and furnishings. No space is too awkward as we can design any bespoke furniture to suit any area.

A bar could compliment a home cinema as an area to entertain, becoming the focal point of a room. From bespoke furniture to house wine to recreating the look of your favourite bar/nightclub the possibilities are endless.

We are able to design and build any size of bar. Furniture can be upholstered in a fabric of your choice to achieve your desired look.

Mark Wilson Furniture creates unique bespoke furniture for the home which is both stylish and innovative. We know it is important to take into account your lifestyle and our bespoke furniture concepts provide a solution to enhance the way you live.

We design furniture from an initial concept and whether you chose to House a TV's and sound system, books & magazines, DVD's , to a bespoke coffee table we can create any piece of bespoke furniture in a material of your choice.

We specialise in bringing the cinema experience into your own home providing a truly exhilarating addition to your leisure time.

Whether you want furniture to house an existing system or a complete home cinema installation we can provide an entirely unique solution for you.

Working alongside Midas Audio Visual for the past five years, we are able to deliver a complete service, from design to final installation. From a simple room system to whole house integration with dedicated cinema rooms, lighting, blind and I pad control; Midas Audio Visual has many years of experience within the industry.

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

We fabricate, supply and install a wide range of quality solid surface brands to the highest standard. We are also official licensed fabricators for Corian® and Staron®.

KITCHEN WORKTOPS, COUNTERTOPS, I N T E G R AT E D S I N K S , B AT H R O O M VA N I T Y U N I T S , SHOWER ROOMS AND MORE...

Contact us now for a FREE no-obligation quote.

0161 627 4042 / 07718 125 409 sales@markwilsonfurniture.co.uk markwilsonfurniture.co.uk 17

FOOD & DRINK

|

50 plus magazine

KWOKLYN WAN MAKES IT EASY TO COOK AMAZING CHINESE FOOD AT HOME

SWEET CHILLI CRISPY WINGS Double-fried, super-crunchy, spicy and juicy wings… This recipe does take a little longer to cook, but to get the crispy coating on the wing you have to double-fry. I guarantee that once you try this dish, it will become the one you pull out of the bag to wow your friends and family – it really is that good!

INGREDIENTS Serves 4 people 1.6kg (3lb 8oz) chicken wings ½ tsp salt ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper 1 tsp grated fresh ginger 125g (1 cup) cornflour (cornstarch) vegetable oil for frying 4 garlic cloves, crushed 3 large, dried red chillies, deseeded and cut into quarters 60ml (¼ cup) light soy sauce 120ml (½ cup) runny honey 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar 1 tbsp palm sugar 1 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted

18

Pat the chicken wings with kitchen paper to make sure they are absolutely dry. Cut the tips off each wing and then cut each wing in half.

Put the chicken into a large bowl and mix with the salt, pepper and ginger. Add the cornflour to a separate large bowl, then thoroughly coat each chicken wing, gently squeezing to make sure the flour is sticking. Put the coated wings on a plate and set aside.

Heat a large non-stick wok over a medium to high heat. Add 1–2 tablespoons of oil, then fry the garlic and chillies for 30 seconds, taking care not to burn the garlic.

Add the soy sauce, honey and vinegar, mix well and simmer for a couple of minutes.

Add the palm sugar and stir until fully dissolved. Remove from the heat and set aside.

Put enough vegetable oil in a large saucepan to be deep enough to deep-fry the wings, and heat to 170°C (340°F).

Gently fry the wings in batches of five, cooking for 8–10 minutes depending on the thickness of each wing piece. Turn the wings frequently to ensure even cooking.

Remove wings and drain on a wire rack.

Continue until all the wings are fried.

Once all the wings are cooked and slightly cooled, reheat the oil (to the same temperature) and fry the wings again for another 12 minutes, until golden brown and crispy, remembering to turn the wings frequently. Remove and drain on a wire rack and repeat with the rest of the wings.

When all the chicken has been doublefried, reheat the sauce in the wok, add the wings and mix well to coat. Transfer to a serving plate, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and serve straightaway.

INGREDIENTS Serves 4-6 people 4 spring onions (scallions), halved a thumb-sized piece of fresh unpeeled ginger, sliced 1 litre (4¼ cups) chicken stock 120ml (½ cup) rice wine 120ml (½ cup) dark soy sauce 100g (½ cup) demerara sugar 1½ tbsp Chinese five spice 2 star anise 1 tsp cloves 3 cinnamon sticks

CRISPY AROMATIC DUCK WITH HOISIN SAUCE AND PANCAKES Everyone, and I do mean everyone, LOVES this dish; it’s the perfect sharing plate to be enjoyed with friends and family.

Put the spring onions, ginger, stock, rice wine, soy sauce, sugar, spices and salt into a large, lidded saucepan and stir well to combine. Add the duck legs and massage the marinade into the skin.

Pop the lid on, put the pan in the fridge and leave to marinate for at least 2

½ tbsp salt 4 duck legs (or you can use a whole duck cut into quarters) To assemble 1 pack of Chinese pancakes (average 10 pancakes per pack) 2 spring onions (scallions), cut into matchsticks 1 cucumber, cut into matchsticks 60ml (¼ cup) hoisin sauce

hours or ideally overnight. At the end of the marinating time, take the lid off the pan and set it over a high heat, bring to the boil, then turn down to a simmer.

Cover and cook for 1–2 hours, keeping an eye on the liquid to ensure it doesn’t boil dry – add water if needed. Remove the duck legs from the liquid and place on a wire rack to cool.

Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Arrange the duck legs on a baking tray and cook in the oven for around 15–20 minutes, or until the skin has turned lovely and crispy.

Towards the end of the duck’s cooking time, steam the pancakes for 6 minutes (or according to the packet instructions).

Remove the duck from the oven and shred the meat from the bones using two forks. Serve straight away with the warm pancakes, spring onions, cucumber and hoisin sauce and let everyone fill and roll their own pancakes.

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

Alcoholics Anonymous has over 4,400 groups throughout Great Britain dedicated to helping those with a serious alcohol problem learn how to stay sober. Groups are made up of people from all walks of life and all age groups. Through friendship and mutual support, members assist each other in coping which is made easier by meeting others with the same problem. There are no dues or fees for membership and anonymity is carefully preserved.

Anyone who believes they have a drink problem can contact Alcoholics Anonymous by using the helpline number above or email; help@aamail.org Further information may be obtained from the web site above or from the General Service Office at the address below.

For information: P.O. Box 1, 10 Toft Green, York. YO1 7NJ Tel: 01904 644 026 19

FOOD & DRINK

|

50 plus magazine

BLACK PEPPER BEEF WITH GREEN PEPPERS AND ONIONS INGREDIENTS Serves 4 people 2 tsp whole black peppercorns 450g (1lb) beef fillet, sliced into bite-sized pieces 2 tbsp oyster sauce 1 tbsp Chinese rice wine 2 tsp light soy sauce a splash of sesame oil 2 tsp cornflour (cornstarch), plus 1 tbsp mixed with 2 tbsp water 1½ tbsp groundnut oil 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

This dish was always served on a sizzling platter in the restaurant.We had ox-shaped, heavy cast-iron platters that we’d heat until they nearly glowed red.They were then placed onto their wooden serving boards and billows of smoke would fill the kitchen.We’d pour the beef covered with its rich sauce onto the platter and it would sizzle and spit, filling the air with an aromatic cloud of smoke that smelled simply amazing.

Doyou you know know a relative Do relativeor or friend that friend thatmay mayneed needaa Meals-on-Wheels service?

Meals-on-Wheels service?

1 small green (bell) pepper, de-seeded and diced 1 small onion, diced 120ml (½ cup) chicken or vegetable stock

Coarsely grind the peppercorns in a pestle and mortar – not too fine but you don’t want any whole corns. Put the beef strips, threequarters of the ground pepper, the oyster sauce, rice wine, soy sauce, sesame oil and the 2 teaspoons of cornflour into a large bowl. Mix thoroughly to coat the meat and leave to tenderise and marinate for 2 hours or overnight. (This isn’t essential but it does make a huge difference).

When you’re ready to cook, heat your wok over a high heat. As soon as the wok starts to smoke add the oil and the marinated beef, leaving any marinade in the bowl for later. Stir-fry until the outside of the beef has browned, then add the garlic, green pepper and onion and continue stir-frying for 2 minutes.

Community Meals

Call ICare Meals Call ICareCommunity Community Meals a complimentarymeal mealand andsweet! sweet! to to trytry a complimentary

0845 604 0845 604 1125 1125

www.icarecuisine.co.uk www.icarecuisine.co.uk || www.icaregroup.co.uk www.icaregroup.co.uk

20

Add the remaining marinade and the stock. Once boiling, drizzle the cornflour mixed with water into the sauce, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens. Transfer immediately to a plate, sprinkle over the remaining ground black pepper and serve.

The Chinese Takeaway Cookbook by Kwoklyn Wan (Quadrille £15) Photography: Sam Folan

REDUCE HEAT LOSS BY UP TO 58%

“ROOF AND INSULATION PROBLEMS

SOLVED PERMANENTLY”

SAVE 25% OFF - PLUS -

VAT FREE

RENOVATE, INSULATE & PROTECT your roof FOR LIFE! THE ROOFSURE SYSTEM IS IDEAL FOR LINING, BONDING, WATERPROOFING & INSULATING YOUR HOME. STOPS SLIPPING SLATES, TILES AND LEAKS, ELIMINATING THE NEED FOR FUTURE EXTERNAL ROOFING MAINTENANCE.

REASONS WHY

100’s of Thousands

SURE: OF CUSTOMERS HAVE ALREADY CHOSEN ROOF

1

The UK’s No.1 foam insulation company

2

Our unique spray-on foam insulates, waterproofs, bonds and lines your roof

3

Will reduce heat loss by up to 58% - save money!

4

The whole process takes just 1-2 days to complete quick, easy, clean

5 6

Can be applied to roofs with or without felt It transforms your cold, damp, draughty loft space into a warm, dry, clean, useable room

30-YEAR

7 8

manufacturers guarantee + 10-YEAR insurance-backed guarantee We have the Government’s Trust Mark for “Good trading practices, good customer service and technical competence” We never use subcontractors, only our expertly trained staff For 30 years a family run business

9

FREE FREE £100

LOFT LADDER & FLOORING

WORTH £750

TO ENJOY YOUR

CLEAN DRY SPACE

WORTH OF M&S VOUCHERS

FREE SURVEY NO OBLIGATION

OVER 60?

YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE OR A SUBSIDY PAYMENT

CLASS 1 CLOSED CELL FIRE RETARDANT FOAM

AS SEEN ON TOMORROW’S WORLD 1977

10

Find out more at: www.roofsure.co.uk

FREEPHONE: 0800 999 4880 TELEPHONE LINES OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK

FREE roof survey applies to homeowners only and is part of your roofsure treatment

Plan for your future… …To enjoy today!

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

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

22

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

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

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

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

love and care about benefit from your estate. It also allows you to build Protecting Investment & trusts into it to safeguard children, Declaration ofothers Trustand can grandchildren and be used to minimise inheritance tax Some parents and grandparents are very charges.

or family do not automatically have the right to makeofdecisions on your adding thousands pounds to your behalf.

If you fail to plan ahead you conveyancing bill. will have no say at all in who helps with your finances and welfare.

keen to help their children make their way

FAMILY MEMBERS, FRIENDS, protect your interest in the property, without

in life, not least to get them out of the

SPOUSES, AND incurring additionalPARTNERS tax charges, and it can

• Power of Attorney: is arguably family home before they celebrate their the most important document you will 40th birthday! However, not everyone is in ever make. The lifeblood of planning a position where they are able to just give for your future. A power of attorney away thousands of pounds.

For some, they will not only give you peace of mind are happy to provide a financial contribution that, should anything happen to you, so long as this is treated as an investment, you will be looked after and your which back if they the affairsthey willcan be get dealt with but need it also removes stress from your cash in thesome future,of or the perhaps once their family at what is already a difficult offspring are better off financially and no time. need assistance. When it comes to longer property, one way of doing this is adding

Thinkname of atoPower Attorney as house the your the titleofregister for the most important insurance document that is being purchased by the offspring. you can have; most people don’t realise that if you lose the ability to Parents have to be aware, however, if they make financial or welfare decisions already own a property, then adding your for yourself, due to a disease such as name to the title register of another home dementia or Alzheimers, your partner

Making a Declaration of Trust is a way to

PARTNERS haveCIVIL a two-fold benefit: ARE ALL

EXAMPLES OF INDIVIDUALS

1. The sumCAN of money provided will be WHO BE CHOSEN. returned to the donor when the property

• is Inheritance Tax Planning: the sold. sensible way to plan. Inheritance Tax 2.

Money can is safeguarded making its planning seem likefrom a long, drawn outway process, but itpartner really ifdoesn’t to the other it was have to be.used By speaking to a solicitor originally to help a couple onto the about the exemptions and reliefs that market and their relationship aresubsequently available, you candown. easily save you breaks and your family time and money.

Of course there are other ways to A Declaration of Trust is flexible and a plan for the future including trusts great way to protect your money which for children and other vulnerable also has additional benefits as mentioned relatives, funeral plans and above. Helping your children onto the succession planning and it is our

job to make the process easy and straightforward. having it paid back in the future.

Yes, it may take a bit of planning now!

Yes,should you may thinkbear youincan it ifoff You however mindput that, until a later date! And Yes, you may a declaration of trust is put in place, the think it will be upsetting to discuss monies will not be treated as a gift to your such issues with your family, but what children, and therefore will not be a ‘PET’ can be done in a matter of hours now, for inheritance tax planning purposes. This can save you time, effort and stress is because you have not given the monies later down the line. away they are effectively justison loan – and With –2019 upon us, now the time they still belong to future you, soso thethat valueyou of your to plan for your can estate be reduced for inheritance enjoy will andnot make the most of today tax purposes. with your family, friends and loved ones.

To discuss a Power of

Gorvins Planning Attorney&orEstate any aspect of lifetime planning contact

ToChristine speak toThornley Tasoula call on 0161 930 5117 or e-mail 0161 930 5117; e-mail actonit@gorvins.com willsteam@gorvins.com

property ladder doesn’t have to be a one

or visit our website www.gorvins.com advice you need to be able to protect

way street out of your bank account. It’s

your money and order your estate as

will mean that you incur the additional 3%

more than possible to see this money as

efficiently and effectively as possible.

of Stamp Duty Land Tax charge, potentially

an investment, and have the possibility of

We will give you the precise legal

The Experts in Wills, Trusts & Probate Give you and your family total peace of mind

Making a Will

Lasting Power of Attorney

Court of Protection

Trusts

Deputyships

Inheritance Tax

Estate Administration

Elderly Care

Probate

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

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

LANNINGF •P

• OR

ACT O N FUTURE

•

O • Y

UR

IT

Act On It Today and contact us on 0161 930 5117 or e-mail actonit@gorvins.com www.gorvins.com/50plus 23

LEISURE

|

50 plus magazine Wednesday 20 March Tea Dance

Come along to our weekly tea dance with a tea/coffee interval and try your chances in the raffle. Time: 13:30 - 16:00 Buy your tickets on the door for £2.60.

Stockport Town Hall, Edward Street Stockport SK1 3XE

Friday 22nd March 2019 MERCURY - THE ULTIMATE QUEEN TRIBUTE

WHAT'S ON

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

19th March, 9th April, 14th May, 18th June, 16th July Practise the Art of Public Speaking!

The fear of public speaking, known as, “glossophobia” is very common and at Peterloo Speakers Club, we offer a friendly, supportive environment to practise the art of public speaking.

Our members prepare short speeches in advance, deliver them to the group and then receive constructive analyses.

Taking what can be a scary and daunting challenge into a constructive experience is the aim of our Club. Overcome your fears and improve delivery of public speaking.

Everyone has an opportunity to present at their own pace.

There is lots of support from members of the Peterloo Club to the Association of Speakers Clubs (ASC), and their written guides.You're welcome to join us, make friends and overcome your fears. We meet in Chorlton at Hough End Centre, Mauldeth Road West, M21 7SX We meet in Chorlton at Hough End Centre, Mauldeth Road West, M21 7SX Book a Place by Contacting:peterloospeakers@gmail.com

Saturday 16th March 2019 A SOULFUL NIGHT TO REMEMBER Stockport Plaza Mersey Square Stockport SK1 1SP 0161 477 7779 www.stockportplaza.co.uk

24

Sunday 7th April Plant Hunters Fair

Free entry to parkland Times 11am - 4pm. Fair: £2.00 Dogs on leads welcome Bramall Hall, surrounded by Capability Brown style parkland is a haven of peace and greenery amongst the hustle and bustle of Bramhall in Stockport.

The historic hall is open (separate charge) to take you back to its medieval roots.

The plant fair is held in the former walled garden next to the new cafe and gives us plenty of room and a flat grassed area for a great variety of nurseries and artisans. This fair has become a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike and is a brilliant place to pick up some wonderful garden plants.

The entrance fee all goes towards funding special projects at the hall.

Bramall Hall Bramhall Park, off Hall Road Bramhall, Stockport SK7 3NX www.stockport.gov.uk/bramallhall

Tuesday 12 March 2019 Socially Yours friendship group (Edgeley)

We are a not for profit social club that's sole aim is to give people a place to go.

Our club is fun and exciting and we host new activities each week. Price £3 St Matthews Church, Grenville Street Edgeley, SK3 9EE

Celebrating 20 years on the road in 2019, Mercury are well established as one of the world’s most authentic tributes to the legend that is Freddie Mercury and Queen. weekend?!

Stockport Plaza Mersey Square Stockport SK1 1SP 0161 477 7779 www.stockportplaza.co.uk

Friday 22 March Moonlight craft fair

Giant craft fair with over 40 stalls. £1, accompanied children under 16's are free St George's Church 28 Buxton Road Stockport SK2 6NU www.stockport.gov.uk/events

Friday 05 April 2019 Bracondale Social Stroll

10:30 - 12:00. A fun and friendly social stroll.Our motto is have fun and be fit.

We cater our routes to those who come and their abilities.

Vernon Park Cafe Woodbank Park, Turncroft Lane, Stockport, SK1 4AR www.stockport.gov.uk/events

Saturday 06 April 2019 Charity concert with the Fron Male Voice Choir and Nigel Ogden

Join the Fron Male Voice Choir and Nigel Ogden in Charity Concert in aid of The Motor Neuron Disease Association and Parkinson's UK. Time: 19:30 - 22:15 Price £15.

The Ballroom Stockport Town Hall, Edward Street, Stockport, SK1 3XE Book your place www.wegottickets.com/event/445943

Saturday 13 April 2019 Garden in the park

Thursday 25 April 2019 Lunch Plus

Come and do some gardening for an hour or so with a friendly group of volunteers in Heaton Moor Park. Get some fresh air and exercise and leave the park in a better condition. Tools and gloves provided.

Refreshments at 1pm. Free event.

Would you like to meet friends and enjoy a lunch with home made soups, sandwiches and a variety of tasty home made cakes? If so , come to All Hallows on the last Thursday in the month at 12.30 cost is just £3.

Heaton Moor Park Peel Moat Road, Heaton Moor, Stockport, SK4 4PH www.stockport.gov.uk/events

THE NORTH WEST’S

All Hallows Church 222 Councillor Lane Cheadle, SK8 2JG www.stockport.gov.uk/events

....

Saturday 13th April 2019SOUL AND MOTOWN PARTY WITH THE EDWIN STARR BAND

The show of the year is back with the amazing Edwin Starr Band and Angelo Starr, this energetic and captivating show takes you through all the Motown, Soul and Norther classics.

Stockport Plaza Mersey Square Stockport SK1 1SP 0161 477 7779 www.stockportplaza.co.uk

Sunday 14 April The Vintage Village

Join us on the second Sunday of the month in Stockport's glorious historic Victorian covered Market Hall.

Find: • quality authentic vintage clothing and accessories for men and women • vintage jewellery • homewares • decorative items • textiles • luggage • furniture • curios and collectables • and unexpected delights you never knew you wanted We also provide the best in refreshments because we know you need quality sustenance for all that intensive vintage browsing.

Stockport Market 30 Market Place Stockport SK1 1ES www.stockport.gov.uk/events

Wednesday 24 April 2019 Offerton art group

An art group for all abilities, even those who didn't think they were artistic.You'll be amazed and delighted at what you can produce. 10:00 - 12:00 Price £1.

Offerton Community Centre Mallowdale Road, Stockport, SK2 5NX www.stockport.gov.uk/events

Bolton’s Award Winning Market Friday 26th April to Saturday 11th May 2019 THE KING AND I

The King and I is the greatest musical from the golden age of musicals – with one of the finest scores ever written including Whistle a Happy Tune, Getting to Know You and Shall We Dance, with over 50 world-class performers AND full-scale orchestra. A celebration of the lavish heritage of the very best in romantic musical theatre from an unparalleled multi award-winning creative team. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to witness Bolton this glorious production. Council Manchester Opera House Quay Street Manchester. M3 3HP www.manchestertheatres.com

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

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

Well worth a visit!

Bolton Market has it all.

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

Monday 29th April 2019 KATHRINE JENKINS

Katerine Jenkins is the fantastic Welsh mezzo-soprano singer and songwriter, a classical-crossover singer who burst on to the scene in 1998. Back in 2009 her album The Ultimate Collection reached #9 and One Fine Day got to #17 in the UK charts.

The Bridgewater Hall Lower Mosley Street Manchester. M2 3WS. www.manchestertheatres.com

How To Find Us Bolton Market, Ashburner Street, Bolton BL1 1TQ. Contact: 01204 336825

Email: bolton.markets@bolton.gov.uk

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

www.bolton.gov.uk

NABMA

the voice of markets

WINNER BEST FOOD market 2017

“For Bolton’s Food & Drink Festival

25

LEISURE

|

50 plus magazine Friday 3rd May 2019 WHITNEY - QUEEN OF THE NIGHT

A stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time, Whitney Houston.

The Plaza Mersey Square, Stockport Cheshire. SK1 1SP. www.manchestertheatres.com

Bury Market has a well deserved reputation for friendly service, fantastic produce and great value.

As one of our customers recently said ‘Traditional market with great atmosphere and great product choices. Fish, meat and veg is second to none. You can be sure of a bargain. I recommend it to - family and friends. Too good to keep to myself'

Friday 10th May 2019 RUSSELL KANE

23 May 2019 - 27 May 2019 Manchester Jazz Festival 2019

He’s back. The keenly-awaited brand new tour show is here. Packing more energy than a Duracell factory.

The award-winning Manchester Jazz Festival (mjf) is back to the city from May 23 – 27. Along with a change of date, the main festival hub will now run the length of St Ann’s Square to New Cathedral Street with a host of free music stages and bars.

As always, gigs will also be staged in venues across the city.

For the first time, mjf have teamed up with Manchester Food and Drink Festival, who will curate an exciting mix of culinary offers along the festival hub. mjf is offering a £5 ticket offer for under 25 year olds at selected gigs for a limited time only to welcome the city’s student population and celebrate the first term time mjf in more than 20 years.

Located from St Ann’s Square all the way to New Cathedral Street.

The Plaza Mersey Square, Stockport Cheshire. SK1 1SP. www.manchestertheatres.com

Saturday 4th May 2019 MICHAEL BALL - COMING HOME TO YOU TOUR

Multi-platinum recording artist and national treasure Michael Ball will hit the road in 2019. Having received critical acclaim for his performances in the West End and on Broadway in shows including Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera and the smash hit musical Hairspray, the radio and TV host has since sold millions of albums and toured multiple continents across the world.

The Bridgewater Hall Lower Mosley Street Manchester. M2 3WS. www.manchestertheatres.com

Full Markets Open: Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays

“Winner NABMA’s” Best Market Attraction

Bury Market Management: Tel: 0161 253 6520 Email: burymarkets@bury.gov.uk Web: www.burymarket.com

Tuesday 21st May 2019 THE ELVIS WORLD TOUR STARRING SHAWN KLUSH AND DEAN Z

Champion US Elvis Tribute Artist Dean Z (winner of EPE's Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest) will be joining Shawn Klush, bringing his one of a kind, high energy performances to the show along with original Elvis band members The Sweet Inspirations.

Manchester Opera House Quay Street Manchester. M3 3HP www.manchestertheatres.com

26

24th to 27th MAY Geronimofest

A fabulous family festival! Arley Hall, Cheshire 25th-28th May! From Cbeebies superstars to BMX stunt shows – and everything for all ages in between! Why not make it a mini-vaction and camp or glamp with us for the weekend?!

Bury Market Hall: Open every day except Sunday

“Winner National Coach Tourism Awards” Coach Friendly Shopping Destination of the Year

St Ann’s Square Manchester M2 7LF www.manchesterjazz.com

ARLEY HALL Northwich CW9 6NA www.geronimofest.com

Thursday 30th May 2019 THE CARPENTERS STORY

This highly acclaimed concert-style production continues to captivate audiences across the UK with its spectacular re-creation of the classic songbook that made The Carpenters a legend in the world of popular music.

Manchester Opera House Quay Street Manchester. M3 3HP www.manchestertheatres.com

£25

0 OFF* BRING T HIS ADV WITH YO

T&CS AP

U

ERT

PLY

Looking for an outdoor adventure this year? Not sure where to start?

Let our friendly and professional team help you decide.

All our affordable and quality used caravans have a rigorous 122 point inspection check – peace of mind

P L AT I N U M WARRANTY

EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY PROVIDING MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL COVER AND WATER INGRESS COVER UP TO 15 YEARS OLD

Avondale Arrow 2007 470-2

£5,588

peace of mind!

A nationwide network of 49 associated service centres peace of mind IMAGES SHOW EXAMPLES OF THE QUALITY USED CARAVANS WE OFFER – PLEASE CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR CURRENTLY AVAILABLE MODELS

Call Matt on 07967 750118 or 57 Ed on 07872 6296

Bailey Pageant 2006 Auvergne

£7,166

Bailey Ranger 2009 500/5

£7,966

Glossop Caravans, Brookfield, Glossop, Derbyshire, SK13 6JF Tel: 01457 868011 info@glossopcaravans.co.uk www.glossopcaravans.co.uk

27

& s EE lks ion FR h ta ultat alt ns he i co in m

GET BACK TO BEING YOU

If you’re considering treatment options and are thinking about paying for yourself, we understand there’s a lot to consider.

Join us for one of our FREE health talks or FREE mini consultations with a consultant specialist to help provide you with all the information and guidance you need. n Weight Loss Talk, 6th March, 18:30-20:30 n Mini Consultations for Weight Loss and Cosmetic Surgery, February-March n Mini Consultations for Tummy Tucks, February

To book your FREE place at one of our health talks or mini consultations please visit

bmihealthcare.co.uk/events-alex

28

12029 152750075 1156 MKT MKT CRE ADV//06.2018 02.2019

HEALTH

|

50 plus magazine

What to do if someone you are with is having a stroke:

YOUR DOCTOR

Time is essential when having a stroke, therefore it is essential to act fact. The quicker the stroke victim gets to the hospital, the faster the doctors can try to reduce the effects of the stroke. Call 999 as soon as possible if someone you are with is experiencing any stroke symptoms.

Never wait to see if it is going to get better independently.

Never leave a stroke victim - additional harm could be done if they were to fall over and injure themselves therefore it is essential that you are there for guidance and help. Don’t offer them any food or medicine. Take note of any medication they are taking, the time the stroke took place and tell the medical team as they will need all the information they can get.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HAVING A STROKE Strokes are a serious medical emergency and occur when the blood supply is cut off to part of the brain and the brain cells begin to die. The blood supply is usually cut off either because of a blood clot, which accounts for 85% of all cases (ischaemic) or because of a weakened blood vessel to the brain bursts (haemorrhagic).

How often does it happen?

A stroke changes someone’s life approximately every three and a half minutes in the UK. Strokes can occur at any age, however the risk doubles each decade after the age of 55. Risk of reoccurrence of a stroke is most in the first 30 days.

Symptoms The way to tell if you are having a stroke is to remember the word F.A.S.T which stands for Face, Arms, Speech and Time.

Symptoms to look for may be your face drooping to one side, your arms may become weak or numb, your speech could be slurred, or you may be unable to speak.

Time refers to you needing to dial 999 as soon as possible. A stroke sufferer may experience confusion, a lack of attention and have a painful headache. A stroke can vary in severity and can result in brain injury, disability or even death.

Consequences The consequence of a stroke is dependent on what side of the brain is damaged and how much damage the brain tissue has received. Usually if the left side of the brain is damaged then the right side of the body will have neurological complications and vice versa. If the right side of the brain is affected, then you may experience vision problems whilst if the left side of the brain is affected speech problems may be apparent. Common side effects after a stroke are extreme fatigue and depression.

HOW TO AVOID HAVING A STROKE 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Quit smoking.

Make sure you have a healthy blood pressure.

Have a healthy weight and balanced diet.

Exercise regularly – at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic ctivity a week.

Drink alcohol in moderation Treat atrial fibrillation.

Treat diabetes.

TIPS ON HOW TO LIVE LONGER Take control of your health and live longer by stopping the acceleration of ageing and disease processes with these top health tips.

Your diet can have a key influence on your life expectancy. Try and eat foods high in antioxidants and vitamins - perhaps follow the Mediterranean diet which contains a lot of fruit and vegetables, nuts, oily fish and healthy fats which can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and memory loss and protect cells from damage.

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

A small amount of stress is known to actually be good for you, but research continues to pour in suggesting that excessive stress or handling stress badly is linked to countless serious diseases.

Mindfulness and meditations techniques are extremely effective at reducing stress. Love the job that you do. Heart attacks are 20% more likely to occur on a Monday 29

with some researchers suggesting that it could be linked to the stress of another working week.

of cancer each year in the UK yet some 9.4 million people in the UK smoke every day.

Spend time with loved ones and friends and enjoy making new friends.

Feeling lonely and isolated can affect your mental and physical health.

Having a social life can reduce stress levels and relieve anxiety and depression.

Try to have a minimum of seven to eight hours of sleep a night, as any less can decrease the effectiveness of your immune system. Getting enough sleep gives you more energy for rich cognitive function and prevents mental issues, such as depression.

Think positively, it can increase your lifespan. Having a positive outlook even during times of stress can help turn negatives into positives and really aid recovery.

Try and be as active as possible. Exercise gets your blood flowing and your heart pumping. Muscle tissue is three times more efficient at burning calories than fat. To maintain good fitness levels, adults aged 20-65 should do 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity like cycling, fast walking or swimming a week.

Try and exercise your mind too. As you grow older your mind can deteriorate, so change your weekly routine and try to visit somewhere new, read challenging books or learn a new language to help keep your mind sharp.

The most obvious way to increase your life expectancy is to stop smoking. Smoking is the largest single preventable cause

Rated ‘Excellent’ on

30

Recent studies have found that spending time in the sun can actually reduce the risk of liver cancer, prostate cancer and breast cancer by providing us with Vitamin D which maintains calcium levels in the body which keeps bones, teeth and muscles healthy. Simply exposing our hands and faces to sun for up to 15 minutes a day in the sun is enough.

However, continue to take care in the sun as burning can be harmful to your skin.

Coffee can be good for you in moderation. A daily cup of coffee can fight against type-2 diabetes and can reduce the risk of heart disease.

Coffee is said to stimulate the nervous system, raise metabolism and increase the oxidation of fatty acids which can aid in weight loss. Avoid sugar in your coffee though!.

Homeshare helps people stay in their own home Things could have been very different for Shirley (85), when she was diagnosed with dementia. With her family living abroad, it looked like she might have to follow the route of many older people and go into a home.

Yet thanks to an innovative new scheme called Homeshare, Shirley offered a vacant room in her home in return for a few hours a week of social support.

Haylea, a volunteer with Princes Trust, heard about the scheme and was soon matched with Shirley. She said “It’s great here, I do a bit of cleaning and put the bins out for Shirley. We like to have tea and make cakes, and then I have my own life too. I live in a great place that I wouldn’t normally be able to afford”.

Shirley’s daughter Brenda praised the scheme “It’s not easy when your relative is diagnosed with dementia.

It’s even harder when you live far away like I do. Homeshare is ideal for older people whether or not they have dementia”.

We want to hear from anyone who has a spare room and could use some social support, or those who need an affordable place to live and could offer up to ten hours of support each week to a householder.

We do all the matching, safety and monitoring checks so you are guaranteed to be matched with someone who will be your ideal Homesharer.

If you think you or a relative could be a Householder or Homesharer contact us on 01706 626747 or email Homeshare@possAbilities.org.uk Find more information at www.possabilities.org.uk/homeshare @PossAbHomeshare

/PossAbHomeshare

HEALTH

|

50 plus magazine

Quality dentures mean a quality lifestyle THE IMPORTANCE OF DENTURES

T

he eyes, nose and teeth are the focal points of every face; they give the first impressions of your personality.

Natural teeth grow in proportion and in harmony with your facial features and your dentures should be made accordingly.

Your teeth, or your dentures, have many important functions: to support your facial muscles, to help formulate your speech, and most importantly to chew your food and start the digestive process.

It is very important to chew food properly, as poorly chewed food will take longer to digest, especially for the elderly who could risk problems in the digestive system.

DIFFICULTIES IN CONSTRUCTING A GOOD SET OF DENTURES

Constructing a functional and aesthetically pleasing set of dentures is the most difficult task in dentistry. We are not only replacing lost teeth, but also lost tissue matter and bone. In other words, we have

32

to re-create your facial features as they were before the loss of your natural teeth.

In most cases we do not know what your teeth looked like, what size they were or what position they were in originally. We have a few indications but mostly we have to rely on our visual and artistic judgement.

At the same time we have to use our technical expertise in order to make the denture stable and functional. Denture construction is more art than science.

the whole job is done by the same person.

CHOICE OF DENTURES

1.

Quality of dentures.

2.

Age of Patient.

There are three main quality standards in denture materials:

Denture Base Acrylics: standard quality, high impact much stronger non brittle and the latest thermoplastic.

Denture Teeth: 2-layer acrylic very basic and cheap, 3-layer acrylic re-enforced much harder, 4-layer composite extra hard and natural looking.

However, good materials on their own will not make good dentures. A skilful and experienced clinician and technician are required. The best results are achieved when

HOW LONG SHOULD DENTURES LAST?

The question we should ask is, how long will my dentures be functional for?

Dentures can last twenty or more years, but will lose their function (chewing ability, proper fit etc.) probably after two years.

This will depend on many factors:

3.

General health of patient.

4. Any drastic change in weight.

DENTURES NEED REGULAR SERVICING

Dentures are in constant use almost 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are also in a pretty hostile environment in the mouth, being attacked by strong acid, bacteria, hot, cold and spicy food. Denture material absorbs liquids and food odour.

Daily cleaning is essential as well as professional ultrasonic cleaning in a dental laboratory at least once a year. Due to constant bone resorbtion dentures will become loose sooner or later.

Loose dentures will increase damage to the gums and bone structure, and increase the risk of breakage. Have them re-lined as soon as possible to get a good fit. It only takes a day or two.

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

WHERE DO I GO TO HAVE A GOOD SET OF DENTURES MADE?

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

Denturists will take the greatest care to make your dentures look natural and fit properly. They can give you and your dentures the time and attention you deserve.

YOUR DENTURES NEED ATTENTION

2. Have your dentures inspected

every two years, and re- lined or

ultra-sonically cleaned.

1. When they become loose.

2. When teeth or denture base discolours.

3.

When tooth surfaces become flat.

4. When denture base does not

fit around natural teeth (in partial dentures).

5. When you develop deep lines

around your mouth.

6. When your chin sticks out, and the

corners of your lips are constantly

wet, developing sores.

7. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.

SUMMARY 1. Clean your dentures daily with a

denture brush and denture cream.

3. Have a new set made every 5 years

if possible.

4. Keep a spare set for emergencies.

5. Remember, dentures do not

have to hurt and do not need to be uncomfortable.

6.

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

7. Dentures so life-like you'd think

they were real.

the A service that will make you smile!

Offering Denture Perfection

LOOSE DENTURES

Can be re-lined by adding a thin layer of the new acrylic to fit the surface of the dentures, making them fit better (takes one or two days).

DENTURES WITH WORN DOWN TEETH

Teeth can be replaced with a new set.

Major improvements in Facial Features

Padding dentures to reduce lines and fill up sunken cheeks will require a new set of dentures. It is advisable to have a new set of dentures made every 5 to 10 years.

SHOULD I HAVE A SPARE SET OF DENTURES MADE?

Yes, it is very important to have a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage.

• • • • •

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

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

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

33

Providing local services for local people Visit Age UK Stockport at our convenient public office for Information and Advice on a wide range of issues for the over 50’s.

For over a quarter of a century Age UK Stockport has been working as a local independent charity providing support to people in later life.

For information on our many services visit our website :

www.ageukstockport.org.uk

Available 9.30am-3.00pm, Monday to Friday at: Unit 34 Great Underbank, Mersey Shopping Centre, Stockport SK1 1PD (Near the Post Office!)

For information or an appointment call

Or call us on: 0161 480 1211

0161 477 1213

Registered Charity number: 1139547

Supporting independent living Step Out Stockport offers fun, friendship and activities for living well and living independently.

It delivers a new approach to Day Services supporting people through a range of building based and community activities in Stockport.

When people need a higher level of support, generally or just for a period of time, there is an experienced and skilled staff team who can offer assistance and support whilst at Step Out.

Tailored care and support in your home and in your life – working alongside you.

A bespoke service supporting adults that require varying levels of support or care.

This includes personal care, shopping, domestic support, companionship, leisure activities, supporting hospital and other appointments, through to supporting people with complex conditions such as dementia, Parkinsons, stroke or palliative care.

We are committed to ensuring our service is friendly, flexible and person led.

34

Open seven days a week and offering a range of times and sessions to suit each person’s individual needs.

If you are interested in any aspect of Step Out Stockport please contact us.

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

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

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

Do you worry that you or a loved one will fall at home and be left waiting for help to arrive?

Perhaps you are often uninjured but struggle to get yourself up?

Would it reassure you to have a fully trained response officer with specialist lifting equipment available at the touch of a button?* For less than £1 per day (£5.96 a week for silver service) Carecall will respond to an emergency 24/7/365, meaning you can rest easy knowing someone is there should you need them. *Lifting service available between 07:00-22:00 seven days a week. Outside of these hours a family member / carer will be requested or an emergency response will be arranged.

SPECIAL OFFER Readers of 50+ magazine will receive free installation (usually £49.99) of the telecare alarm unit, pendant and a keysafe. (valid until 31/12/18)

Simply contact the team quoting ref: FIFTYPLUS

0161 218 1655

Revive your drive with Resin Drives Combine extra parking space with stunning kerb appeal.

Give your outdoor space the ‘wow’ factor with landscaped pathways.

Why Choose Resin?

• Completely porous and puddle free • Hardwearing, durable and weed-adverse • 10 times more environmentally friendly than concrete • Slip resistant, wheelchair friendly and excellent tyre traction

BUY

*

NOW AND PAY

NOTHING UNTIL 2020

Create a unique and stylish patio area.

Why Choose Resindrives.co.uk?

• Highly skilled installation team • No subcontracting • Multiple colour schemes & styles to choose from • Over 10 years experience

For ultimate kerb appeal add a state of the art gliderol garage door, maintenance-free composite fencing or a realistic artificial lawn

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE AND SURVEY

0800 007 5733 Approved Materials & Systems Cert No. 18/5476

www.resindrives.co.uk

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