Stockport Issue 68

STOCKPORT EDITION 68

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2022

Sue Barker

Travel

ICELAND TO LONDON CRUISE

CALLING THE SHOTS

Food & Drink

THEO RANDALL’S ITALIAN PANTRY

Gardening

FESTIVE PLANTS THAT ARE EASY TO CARE FOR

WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Helping you to enjoy life - Our home is YOUR HOME

10/10/2019 10:35

Bankfield House is an independent, privately owned care home.

Situated in a quiet corner of Woodley.

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ankfield House is an independent privately owned care home situated in a quiet corner of Woodley, in the tranquillity of its own attractive landscape gardens consisting of a pond, barbecue and pergola.

We also hold our annual barbecue, together with bring & buys and raffles to raise money for our resident’s fund, to help purchase theatre tickets and entrance fees on their outings.

Our ethos is to assist our Residents in continuing to live their lives as independently as their specific needs determine by providing holistic care and support conductive to those needs.

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High Dependency Residential Care

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Permanent, Short Term, Respite and Day Care

We offer dedicated care, providing each individual resident with security, dignity and peace of mind in a homely family environment.

Our extensive person-centred activities itinerary is coordinated by our experienced full-time member of staff five days per week.

Activities take place within the care home and in the community through Start Point Coffee Shop, Communiversity, local Churches, Nursery Schools and allotments.

You will also find us on our Facebook page ‘Bankfield Bellbows’ which has been invaluable during COVID-19 for families and friends to connect with their loved ones and interact remotely in their activities and 6 weekly resident/ relative meetings.

During the summer months Bankfield House Residents are able to enjoy our gardens, planting herbs and tomatoes etc, in the raised garden beds.

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Organised activities by our experienced full time Activities Coordinator Outings, Theatre, Canal Boat Trips etc.

Links to the local community through Start Point Coffee Shop, Communiversity and Churches

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CCTV within the home and grounds

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Accommodates 30 residents

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Located in private grounds with landscape gardens, pergola, stone barbecue and pond Hairdresser, Chiropodist, Ophthalmic and Dental Services, Church Services Resident Relative Meetings

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU!

Bankfield House Care Home, Bankfield Road, Woodley, Stockport, Cheshire SK6 1RQ. Tel: 0161 406 6468 2

CONTENTS | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

Travel

Twittering On

BY ANGELA KELLY

IN THIS ISSUE 8-9

TWITTERING ON

By Angela Kelly

10-11

TRAVEL Iceland to London Cruise

12-13

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW Sue Barker, calling the shots

14-16

TRAVEL New 2023 tours from Ellen Smith

ICELAND TO LONDON CRUISE WITH SILVERSEA

17

MOTORING Tips for buying your first Caravan

20-21

FOOD Theo Randall’s Italian Pantry

24-25

HOME Re-appreciating your home.

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

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• 3.6m wide opening • 77” Anthracite grey slats

Only £1,990 Price on this door style can range from £1,440 - £2,740 depending on the width of door opening.

Sue Barker RETIRES AS TV PRESENTER AT WIMBLEDON

Quality Doors Great Service. Free Fitting.

It’s time to upgrade your garage door to a Garolla electric door. Not only are they strong and secure, they are also thermally insulated. So if you’re transforming the garage into a home gym, office or even a garden bar, Garolla is perfect for you.

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3

Self-drive & coach inclusive breaks

GREAT VALUE 5 DAY HALF BOARD BREAKS

£134 from

per person

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CHRISTMAS COMES

Get in the festive spirit with Daish’s Robinsons. Our Tinsel and Turkey breaks start at the end of October and carry on right up to the big day. Each of our Tinsel and Turkey breaks squeeze in all the best bits of the Christmas and New Year period over a 5 day break.

Plenty of fun and laughter for all, and maybe a visit from Santa himself!

Or start the new year with one of our 3-2-1 Bar Promotion breaks. In January enjoy 3 nights half price drinks on every break or 2 nights in February. Enjoy this offer from 5-9pm on selected drinks from our hotel bars.

Our fleet of luxury coaches provide return travel in comfort and style from your local pickup point and will take you directly to your hotel. Or if you prefer, all our breaks can be booked on a self-drive basis giving you the freedom to get out and explore the local area.

Every break includes: Comfy en suite accommodation

Return coach travel (self-drive option available)

Breakfast & 3-course evening meal

Request your brochure now!

Live nightly entertainment

BOOK 2023 EARLY

and enjoy our fabulous half price bars Isle of Wight

Torquay

Bournemouth

Llandudno

Newquay

Blackpool

Lake District

Scarborough

Eastbourne

Weymouth

Don’t miss these coach inclusive breaks!

Local pick up points from make it easy to get away.

Price includes return coach travel from:

ME Pick-up: Rochdale, Royton, Oldham, Ashton-under-Lyne, Hyde, Stockport, Cheadle, Lymm Services.

All offers are subject to availability and standard terms and conditions (see brochure or website for T&C’s).

DATE

HOTEL

DAYS

PRICE

DATE

HOTEL

NOVEMBER

DAYS

PRICE

JANUARY

01

Russell Hotel – Weymouth 

5

£199

21

Esplanade Hotel – Scarborough 

5

£139

08

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight 

5

£204

23

Imperial Hotel – Eastbourne 

5

£149

15

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay 

5

£199

26

Somerset Hotel – Llandudno 

5

£144

21

Esplanade Hotel – Scarborough 

5

£219

29

Russell Hotel – Weymouth 

5

£139

28

Hotel Prince Regent – Weymouth 

5

£219

30

Somerset Hotel – Llandudno 

5

£204

DECEMBER

FEBRUARY 03

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay 

5

£139

04

Devonshire Hotel – Torquay 

5

£134

01

Imperial Hotel – Eastbourne 

5

£204

08

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth 

5

£149

04

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay 

5

£179

17

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight 

5

£159

05

Sands Hotel – Bournemouth 

5

£179

17

Hotel Prince Regent – Weymouth 

5

£184

06

Daish’s Blackpool Hotel – Blackpool  

5

£169

19

Somerset Hotel – Llandudno 

5

£184

10

Daish’s Hotel – Isle of Wight 

5

£169

20

Imperial Hotel – Eastbourne 

5

£174

11

County Hotel – Lake District 

5

£199

27

Barrowfield Hotel – Newquay 

5

£164

11

Russell Hotel – Weymouth 

5

£179

13

Imperial Hotel – Eastbourne 

5

£174

16

Abbey Lawn Hotel – Torquay 

5

£169

Quote - 50PlusME

Call 01202 638 840 or book online at www.daishs.com  Tinsel & Turkey  Blackpool Illumination  321 Bar Promotion Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a Standard Room. Supplements apply on twin/double rooms with sole occupancy. Optional local excursions can be booked at the hotel. Many more coach or self-drive holiday dates available in 2022/23. If you would prefer to self-drive, deduct £20 per person from prices shown. Offer ends 30th November 2022

10 fabulous locations, 12 great hotels.

Bournemouth

Llandudno

Newquay

Weymouth

Weymouth

Eastbourne

Bournemouth Sands

Somerset Hotel

Barrowfield Hotel

Hotel Prince Regent

Russell Hotel

Imperial Hotel

Isle of Wight

Scarborough

Torquay

Torquay

Blackpool

Lake District

Daish’s Hotel

Esplanade Hotel

Devonshire Hotel

Abbey Lawn Hotel

Daish’s Blackpool Hotel

County Hotel

Call 01202 638 840 or visit daishs.com

facebook.com/robinsonsholidays1

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If you live within the area above Home pick up & Drop off is FREE

TWITTERING ON | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

TWITTERING ON

By Angela Kelly

As a spokesman for Canada Life commented: “Retiring abroad is not a step to be taken lightly. The financial considerations are vast, such as thinking about the impact of currency exchange rates, local tax rules and whether state pensions will keep pace with the cost of living.”

Moving abroad? Do the maths first WE are now going into the main time of the year when many people in the UK think about living in a sunnier climate.

It’s completely understandable, of course, when our wet and chilly Autumn months give way to even colder and icier weather before Spring hits.

TV programmes showing the glories of life in the sun around the world are definitely feelgood viewing now.

According to a new survey, 54 per cent of us are thinking of living in another country with many citing the cheaper cost of living and others just wanting a better lifestyle and weather.

Spain has been named the best retirement destination by UK over50s for the 10th consecutive year while Portugal has overtaken France in distant second place.

Italy is fourth with South Eastern Europe (Greece, Romania, Serbia and Cyprus) fifth and the Far East - including China, Tahiland, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore and Philippines – sixth.

America and Australia have all improved their rankings over last year at sevenths and eighth and ninth and 10th places go to New Zealand and Turkey.

Anyone over-50 thinking of leaving the UK for warmer climes permanently, though, needs to heed the advice of life insurance company Canada Life.

They warn of the importance of checking whether your destination has a reciprocal agreement on the state pension. Otherwise, you may end up missing out financially as it could be frozen at whatever amount it was set at when you first left the UK. While the Government has struck individual deals with some countries – Spain and other EU countries were involved in a state pension rights’ deal during Brexit negotiations – others like Canada, Australia, India and many parts of the Caribbean don’t have deals. Rising inflation might make this area of vital importance.

8

I’m afraid we may get blinded with the potential sunshine on the matter of finances when those hotspots beckon for a better life as we sit at home in the UK. Plainly, we need to keep our eyes wide open – and do the maths.

I do …. but only at half-time SPORT can bring couples and families together but it can also drive them apart.

I don’t think the early signs were too good when one young Australian woman caught her new husband watching a rugby match on his phone on their wedding day!

He had propped up the phone against their three-tiered wedding cake. Then, adding insult to injury, he did the same thing at her brother’s wedding later.

It’s hard to imagine how their married life will go after he’s shown where his real interest in life lies.

I’ve always worried about bridegrooms in particular who insist on planning a wedding around sporting dates. Although everyone is entitled to enjoy their pastimes, you’re getting married to the supposed love of your life, mate, so how about showing a bit of early commitment?

Working from home or hybrid it’s now all change IF there is one aspect of our lives that has undergone a dramatic makeover in the last couple of years it’s working from home.

Prior to 2020, working from home was the exception rather than the rule but, thanks largely to Covid 19, it has undergone a dramatic surge.

Before the pandemic, staff went into the office an average of 3.8 days a week but by April, 2020, 46.6 per cent of people in employment did some work at home.

Post-lockdown, many companies wanted to get staff back into the office, sometimes with hybrid working where employees split their

work between home and office. And it may now be that this form of flexible working is the way forward; 47 per cent of American workers prefer this model.

Productivity is the obvious measure of any method of working and working from home certainly seems to have a positive result for many companies. In fact, many people reported being more productive at home than in the office.

However, there are naturally some down-sides.

In the same survey, 81 per cent of younger workers said they would feel isolated without more time in the office and 60 per cent reported they felt less connected to colleagues. Loneliness could certainly be a factor and, for some, there were just too many distractions at home.

However, the lack of a commute and its possible stress, the relaxed “dress code”, flexible scheduling and the ability to look after family, pets and ageing relatives better were all identified as huge advantages.

One interesting side-effect is that many people decided to move house when proximity to work was no longer a requirement.

To be realistic, working from home is not for everyone, either because their job could not be run from home efficiently or simply because they prefer to be with other people.

It is a fact, though, that we have crossed a line in the working world and it will be fascinating to see where this journey now takes us.

The Queen’s sad farewell THE very moving time around the Queen’s death and during the mourning period revealed much about both this nation and people in other countries.

The genuine sadness at her passing was hard to miss. People loved her and admired the way she tackled the role of monarch from being a young woman into older age.

The affection for her from people of other nations was also heartwarming. Whatever thoughts there are about monarchy, there appeared to be real affection for Her Majesty.

What the funeral itself and all the tradition involved also proved is that the way we handle this sort of occasion is unparalleled.

The stoic precision of individuals and horses, the grandeur, the sheer spectacle proved once more that Brits really do this best.

or email: help@aamail.org 9

TRAVEL | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

50 Plus Travel

sponsored by

ICELAND TO LONDON CRUISE WITH SILVERSEA Silver Travel Advisor’s Gillian Thornton explores the unspoilt landscapes of the North Atlantic Iceland is featured by several cruise operators but from previous experience, we knew we liked the luxury boutique feel of the Silversea fleet. A real treat after so many cancelled trips during the pandemic. In July 2022 when we travelled, passengers with up-todate Covid vaccines – in other words, each one you are eligible for - were required to produce a negative Rapid Antigen test within 72 hours of departure. We passed, but sadly our travelling companions didn’t and were given an immediate full refund by Silversea.

Dynjandi waterfall There’s something strangely mesmerising about a pool of bubbling mud, the rhythmical gloop-gloop sound and the way the liquid earth shudders with each bursting bubble. I hold my breath as I pass through the cloud of sulphurous steam issuing from the valley floor and marvel at the barren landscape, stained in a palette of primeval colours from a myriad of minerals. No wonder the crew of Apollo 11 came here to Iceland to train for the Moon landings.

This chance to experience Iceland’s geothermal landscape is one of many good reasons why I booked a 12-day cruise with Silversea this summer from Reykjavik to London. I’ve always loved wild, unspoilt places and Iceland delivers by the bucket load.

But after four full days on this extraordinary island, the itinerary also promised more dramatic scenery through a clutch of other Atlantic islands, as well as wildlife encounters, historic sites, and some appealing TV tie-ins. A varied itinerary that only a cruise can deliver.

We travelled this time on Silver Whisper which carries 392 passengers in understated luxury, flying to Reykjavik with British Airways from London just as the record-breaking heatwave hit Britain. A welcome relief on our part as we packed layers of outdoor clothing for temperatures likely just to edge into double figures Silversea voyages include all drinks, meals and tips as well as a good choice of free daily excursions, so there are only optional extras to pay for such as spa and bespoke experiences. Our 12-day cruise included two formal nights, but gentlemen can choose dinner suit, dark suit, or blazer and tie, or to dine casually at the pool deck grill.

Every passenger enjoys butler service with each butler assigned to a small group of suites, but it’s not nearly as intimidating as it sounds. Vimal, our butler, supervised the daily cleaning of our accommodation, kept our minibar stocked with our choice of drinks, and generally took care of any requests. He wasn’t there to unpack our smalls, although ‘help with packing’ was advertised for those in need of a hand before return.

Silver Whisper

Whale Watching off Husavik

Lerwick 10

In Iceland, we chose four excursions to give us a real feel for the island’s varied landscape and wildlife. The rugged western fjords and the geothermal landscape of the north, as well as a guided hike to a plateau high above the east coast. In summer, birdlife was everywhere from puffins and gannets to godwits, plovers and whimbrels. Not sure you’d know one? You will if you chose the nature excursions!

You’re never very far from tumbling water either in this extraordinary landscape, from cascading streams to the ‘mini Niagara’ of the powerful Godafoss waterfall where a 10th century king is said to have flung images of pagan gods into the water as the country adopted Christianity. Others Icelandic legends include sea monsters and strange beasts, still supposedly seen in recent decades!

After four days around Iceland and a relaxing sea day, contrasting islands followed in quick succession. The spectacularly rugged Faroes, setting for the Scandi crime series Trom and 007’s final scene in No Time to Die. The Shetland Islands too where we enjoyed scenery, seals and seabirds on a guided walk around a nature reserve, and browsed round Lerwick, setting for the TV detective series Shetland. And lastly, the Orkney Islands where my imagination went into overdrive amongst the Neolothic remains of Skara Brae village and the standing stones at the Ring of Brodgar.

Without exception, the local guides were excellent, teaching us about the Norse history that links not just these Atlantic islands but also our own island and France after Viking explorers set off from Norway in the ninth century. Who knew for instance, that the word ‘Viking’ actually means ‘adventurer’?

We loved the summer wildlife too. The humpback whales who obligingly put on a show beneath cloudless blue skies during our whale watching tour from Husavik, and the sight of thousands of puffins flying and fishing around their annual island nesting grounds. Seals basked on Scottish beaches, popping up at dinner beyond the restaurant window, and Arctic terns put on spectacular fishing displays as they plummeted seawards to seize another snack.

From the Orkney Islands we sailed to another volcanic landscape, Edinburgh, the ancient volcano of Arthur’s Seat clearly visible above the city as we moored close to The Royal Yacht Britannia, another advantage of choosing a small ship that can access the inner

Greenwich harbour. Take a choice of city tours, visit the spectacular Rosslyn Chapel, or simply take the shuttle bus to explore independently.

Two relaxing sea days gave us time to enjoy the hospitality and facilities of Silver Whisper before an evening cruise up the Thames to our final mooring. The coloured lights of the Thames Barrier, the ‘Manhattan’ skyline of Canary Wharf, and the unmistakeable dome of the 02 Arena gave way to stately Greenwich Palace and the illuminated masts of the Cutty Sark. A very different ship but a fittingly maritime finale for our North Atlantic adventure.

Next steps Call the Silver Travel Advisors on 0800 412 5678 to book and to find out more about Silversea voyages. www.silvertraveladvisor.com

Festive Family Funday & Worker Bee Market ber Saturday 19th Novem 11am – 3pm

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All Welcome + FREE Admission

You might even spot Father Christmas!

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30/09/2022 14:35

11

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

|

50 PLUS MAGAZINE

SUE BARKER CALLING THE SHOTS WHEN Sue Barker retired as a TV presenter at Wimbledon this Summer the tears came from more than just her – the nation felt that we had lost something special.

Her great success on TV generally, although especially her associations with the annual tennis-fest at SW19, make us easily forget, however, just what a talented and successful tennis player Sue was. At one time in her career, she was ranked No.3 in the world.

Her tennis career started where she was born and brought up in Paignton, Devon. She was educated at a convent school and at the age of 10 in 1966 she was picked as one of two girls to receive free coaching from week-known tennis coach Arthur Roberts.

He had coached Angela Mortimer – the former world No.1 female tennis player – and was impressed with the slight blonde girl. In particular, he was impressed by her forehand, and when the period of the free coaching finished, he continued to coach her.

12

Roberts entered Sue, then in her teens, into tournaments abroad, giving her a one-way ticket and instructing her to win enough to pay for her ticket home! Roberts did, though, prove to be a supportive mentor and highly influential throughout her tennis career.

At just 16, young Sue was No.21 in the LTA rankings and Roberts advised her to move to America for to improve her development. Here, she was signed by Mark McCormack’s International Management Group (IMG).

She won her first top-level singles title in 1975, along with three additional titles, and reached her first Grand Slam semi-final at the Australian Open.

She won the German Open the following year and had the biggest victory of her career in 1976 when she won the French Open at the age of 20.

In 1977, Sue won two singles’ titles in San Francisco and Dallas and beat Martina Navratilova to reach the final of the Virginia Slims Tour Championships, where she lost in three sets to Chris Evert.

That year, she reached the semi-finals of the Wimbledon Centenary Championships, looking set to meet fellow Brit Virginia Wade in the landmark final. Unfortunately, she unexpectedly lost her semi to Betty Stove of the Netherlands who in turn lost to Wade.

After this disappointment, Sue continued her tennis career but was plagued by injuries and in 1978 her ranking dropped to world No.24. However, she still won three singles’ titles and reached three other finals in 1979 and won the final title of her singles’ career in 1980 at the Brighton International.

She won her last doubles’ title in 1982 at Cincinnati and played her last professional match in 1984 when injuries forced her to retire from tennis. In all, she had won 15 singles’ titles and 12 doubles’ titles with notable wins over famous players including Chris Evert, Billie Jean King Rosie Casals and Pam Shriver.

After a short break – and to the surprise of some tennis luminaries like Martina Navratilova who, on Sue’s retirement this year, said how shy she had been then – she began a broadcasting career in Australia.

Fortunately for the UK, in 1993 the BBC recognised both her broadcasting skills and her current tennis knowledge.

The following year, she started presenting coverage from the Wimbledon tennis championships, Unsurprisingly, her depth of knowledge about the game and about the life of touring tennis players and her natural warmth brought a fresh perspective to the coverage.

She knew so many of the players personally – many obviously liked her and chatted happily with such an old friend and viewers benefitted from such an informed, informal approach. She asked pertinent questions that added to viewers’ understanding of individuals and the game and made Wimbledon coverage more accessible and enjoyable.

John McEnroe put it beautifully succinctly on her final day when he told a tearful Sue that Wimbledon “just wouldn’t be the same anymore” without her.

Sue’s sunny smile and ready sense of humour, alongside her professionalism, also took her into other areas of broadcasting.

She became the presenter of BBC’s very popular programme A Question of Sport and there was an outcry when she was replaced last year. Many viewers are still lobbying for her return.

She was awarded the MBE in 2000 for services to tennis and broadcasting and the OBE in 2016 for her services to sport, broadcasting and charity.

Sue has been happily married to landscape gardener and former policeman Lance Tankard since 1988 and the couple live in Stanton, Gloucestershire.

However, before she met Lance, Sue was in a relationship with famous Australian golfer Greg Norman. But it was when she got together with singer Cliff Richard that the British media went wild.

In her just published autobiography, Calling the Shots, she recalled how the relationship started when she met Hank Marvin and Brian Bennett from his backing group who were on tour and staying at her hotel when she was playing in Brighton.

She got them tickets to her match. Cliff, a huge tennis fan, got her number from them and called her asking her to go to the Shadows’ concert with him.

This was the start of a relationship that must have been hard to maintain for both of them. Sue was playing on the tennis circuit around the world and Cliff was fulfilling his own tour engagements in different countries.

The British press loved this romantic story of two famous names linked but the relationship only lasted a matter of months. As Sue states in her book:

“It felt to me like a friendship that had the potential to develop, rather than a significant romantic relationship, because we hadn’t taken it far – and I’m not just talking about sex.”

The long ago romance, though, has always struck a chord in the public psyche and there is no doubt there will be questions about her and Cliff when she tours the UK during October talking about her career and life in and out of tennis.

• For more information about her tour go to www.penguin.co.uk/events/sue-barker-live 13

DOOR TO DOOR COACH TOURS 2023 If you’ve never tried coach holidays before, why not let We’ve been established for over 120 years so we know a bit about coaching holidays!

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 ans mature friendly drivers.

HOW DOES IT WORK? On the morning of travel we pick you up at a prearranged time and take you to out waiting coach a Birch Services.

WE DO THINGS A BIT DIFFERENTLY THAN OUR RIVALS

WE’RE OFF ON HOLIDAY THEN? The same happens on the way back too, taxi back to your front door!

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

WE NEVER DISCOUNT.

WITHIN 30 MINUTES

FINALLY

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.

in the UK, we will refund the difference to the whole coach!

therefore everybody on board pays the same price.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND BOOK ON-LINE TO SAVE £10.00 PER PERSON

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Join our facebook community by ‘liking’ our page to view latest offers, customer comments and various photographs.

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LOOE, CORNWALL ENCHANTING SOMERSET OBAN,SOUTH MULL & IONA & WINDSOR CASTLE & CRUISE THE SOUTHSEA & CHICHESTER SPRING, SHIELDS THE ENGLISH RIVIERA TENBY & PEMBROKESHIRE BOURNEMOUTH THEMED BREAKS AT THE THE ENGLISH RIVIERA - - TORQUAYBLACKPOOL THAMES HARBOUR CRUISE THE DURHAM COAST The Portbyan Hotel ~ 3 Star The Wessex Hotel ~ 3 Star Royal Hotel ~ 3 Star Doric Hotel WINNOCK The Belgrave Sands Hotel & Spa ~ The The Giltar Hotel, Tenby ~ 3 Star Mayfair Hotel~ 3 Star TORQUAY Be enchanted, Somerset has lotsHotel of surprises Based in the bustling seaside The Bull Hotel, Gerrard’s Cross Best Western Beach The Little Haven Hotel ~ 3town Starof Oban, Breaks atmiles The Winnock A holiday in Blackpool will leave feeling The Winnock Hotel 4inStar For these holidaysRoyal we stay inyou Tenby, with its~Themed With seven of golden sands and Belgrave Sands Hotel waiting to be discovered –– stunning beaches, our tour explores the enchanting Inner Southeast Cornwall, famous for the day- refreshed, ~ 4 Star A great Spring tour based in South Shields relaxed and recharged even if you are 3 Star pastel-coloured buildings, narrow streets, sea, the vibrant cosmopolitan town Asparkling selection of Themed Breaks at the An award-winning elegant An award-winning resortresort wherewhere elegant Victorian green countryside, woodlands, lakes, and Hebridean Islands of Mull andpopular ancient Iona.

A selection of Themed Breaks at the popular Winnock Hotel, including an All-Inclusive Burn’s Night package.

u Victorian Steam Journey – August (5 days) A 2-Hour Cruise on Loch Katrine on Steam Ship SS Sir Walter Scott with

go 25 hours a day! Perhaps it’s the resort’s the Lochside Restaurant overlooking River and Little Haven of has itTyne all All-Inclusive –Lunch aat vast variety of lovely tour as awe discover the splendour of on the Winnock Hotel,the including an A great tour for the summer – stroll along The Winnock HotelBournemouth Ride on the Falkirk Wheel, the Burn’s World’s Only Rotating Boat Lift Victorian villas, harbour and palmvillas,A arich bustling harbour, and beaches history suchbustling as thepalm-fringed famous Looe Bridge infectious more.

Welandmark venture across ‘Bridge the Winnock Hotel is Drymen’s building.

A former 18th Century zest foroflife, maybe it’s just that, Journey oncoastline the Bo’nessover & Kinneil Steam Railway with Afternoon Tea Beach.

We explore thethe scenic before Tenby is one theor prettiest resorts in SouthThe and countryside package.

Windsor and explore mighty Windsor Visit to Inveraray with Afternoon Tea Dance in the Hotel coaching inn,Night Theshops Winnock takes centre stagerestaurants, in the conservation village and endless give Royal the Riviera its well-earned name.

Southsea seafront, visit the historic cathedral fringed beaches give the Riviera its that joins the East and West towns and Atlantic’ toin Seil take in some uand Taste of Scotland – September (5 Days) whatever your routine, Blackpool can offer on the village green looking out over spectacular surroundings.

All the enjoying time theIsland historic city of Durham as Wales.

Whether you take a stroll through thesits offering and relaxation beautiful, Castle.

Offering a welcome contrast, we also uniquely, Lunch withand the finest quality Scottish Tapas on 1 day en-suite bedrooms are sympatheticallypeace decorated with TV, telephone, and city ofbreak Chichester well-earned name. through The Trossachs and Dukes Pass a perfect from it.and enjoy a relaxing hidden treasures including beautiful woodland stunning as weExcursion travel along loch-side making facilities.

The hotel has a spacious lounge & bar, covered well as a visitscenery to Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Sail on the Lady of the Lake with a Delicious Afternoon Tea served onboard town or cruise along the beaches, or enjoy atasting ride tea/coffee award-winning enjoy a relaxing cruise along the River Thames. harbour and heated outdoor decking area, and restaurant. Sorry,gardens. there is no lift, but and indulge with a gin In-House Malt Whisky & Chocolate Tutored Tasting and cobbled streets lined with independent roads with towering mountains. ground floor rooms are available on request. along the Pembrokeshirecoast, Tenby is an Disclaimer for All-Inclusive with Free Bar at Bombay Sapphire.

Dates & Prices boutiques and delicious restaurants. £ “Under the terms of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005, the supply of ideal base. alcoholic drinks in our ‘All- Inclusive’ packages are not unlimited. Subject to

28th March 5 Days £359

23rd January £359 | £289 | |55| Days || £459 7th March 5Days Days 25th April

3rd April | 6 Days | £499

Monday 30th January | 5 Days £369 Per Person Single Supplement £74

30th January 55Days | £369 |Days | £349 7thApril March Days 25th April £439 || 55|Days || £339 4th

our discretion, in the case of drunkenness, patrons on an ‘All-Inclusive’ package shall be permitted a maximum of £18.00 worth of alcoholic drinks per day as part of the package.”

Excursions Included

u

u All Inclusive Burns – January (5 days) Storytelling about the Jacobites and Local Clans with a Weaponry Display Traditional Burns Supper with Piper to Address The Haggis Full Scottish Show 1 night Fun-Filled Scottish Quiz Free Bar between 19:30-22.30hrs every night (selected drinks) Farewell Hot Toddy on Departure u Secret Islands & Waterways of Scotland – May (5 days) Trip on the Maid of the Forth to Inchcolm Island with time to Explore the Island and its Wildlife, as well as the Abbey. Packed Lunch Included Calmac Ferry Cruise to the wonderful Isle of Arran including a Tour of the Island and admission to Brodick Castle Two-Hour Cruise Exploring the Secret Islands & Narrows of Loch Lomond u Regal Scotland – June (5 days) A Day in Edinburgh with Entry to the Royal Yacht Britannia & the Famous Botanic Gardens A visit to Duntreath Castle with Morning Coffee, Home Baking & a Guided Tour with Lady Edmonstone.

A Cruise along Loch Katrine aboard ‘Lady of the Lake’ with Cream Tea A Visit to Stirling Castle with Admission Included A Visit to Glengoyne Whisky Distillery In-House Entertainment on 2 Nights

PICTURESQUE KENT, THE BEAUTIFUL GARDEN SCARBOROUGH SHREWSBURY, LUDLOW && NORTH DEVONPEMBROKESHIRE & CORNWALL PERTHSHIRE, ST.THE ANDREWS LLANDUDNO SNOWDROPS IN &The BEAUTIFUL GOWER OF ENGLAND IRONBRIDGE GORGE EDINBURGH Park Manor Hotel ~ 2 Star Durrant House TheThe Marlborough HotelHotel ~ 3 Star COTSWOLDS The Ivy Bush Royal Best Western PlusHotel Burlington Hotel Scarborough enjoys an Hotel, unrivalled position Buckatree Hall ~ Based the port of Bideford, this tour Salutation Hotel, Perth ~3 3 Star Star Llandudno isinWales’s largest resort, uniquely situated asDoubletree by Hilton Swindon one Britain’s premier coastal resorts,and yet Carmarthen ~Little 3ofStar ~ 4 Star between theofGreat Ormes with two combines theand best Beautiful Cornwall Along the upper reaches of the River Severn Perthshire is a region of breath-taking variety,

© tormentor4555

9th January | |5|5|Days | £339 | £329 | |£489 7th March 5Days Days 21st April

Tuesday 23rd May | 5 Days £539 Per Person Single Supplement £82 Tuesday 27th June | 5 Days £489 Per Person Single Supplement £82 Thursday 17th August | 5 Days £519 Per Person Single Supplement £92 Monday 25th September | 5 Days £519 Per Person Single Supplement £82

DEVONSHIRE & ILFRACOMBE LLANDUDNO SKEGNESS & THE BEST OF FLEETWOOD & LOVELY The Royal & Hotel~ Fortescue Hotel ~ LINCOLNSHIRE Tynedale 4 Star LANCASHIRE 3 Star Llandudno is Wales’s largest resort, Hotline: 01706 648126 TheNorth RoyalBooking Hotel, Skegness ~ 3uniquely Star The Euston Hotel

situated between the Great Little Ormes A short break with excursions toand interest

Experience the best ofbeach Lincolnshire Fleetwood Seafront extendswith from The much-loved Snowdrop lifts our hearts during also lies North tantalisingly close to North North Yorkshire’s with towns two beaches, the awardeveryone.

Wewonderful takeand in North Devon throughout wonderful beaches, theDevon. award-winning Shore, delightful Bideford’s narrow The natural beauty of the Pembrokeshire coast winter Known as the Garden of England, Kentand boasts and borders between England Wales, from itsthe serene glens and endless expanse of historic villages, thriving seaside Rossall Beach at and Cleveleys, anda you can walk all the short days, and they thrive throughout the and the quiet, sand-duned West Shore. with visits to interesting attractions which, rugged National Park.

On this holiday, you can winning North Shore, and the quiet, backthe streets andPeninsula alleywaysare link the quay and Cotswolds. and Gower famed all over beautiful beaches, stunning castles, exciting theforest countryside of Shropshire shelters some way lush to its bleakly beautiful moors, resort and ‘Bomber Country’ heritage. along it from Cleveleys to Fleetwood.

Thursday Our short break takes you to one of the p_Layout 1 22/09/2022 2:57 pm Page 33 when combined with our excellent hotel, enjoy the golden beaches, superb parks and sand-duned West Shore. the world. river, and the old roadbeaches has a lovelybridge the Glorious sandy and rugged bestculture, and food &waterfalls. drink. Our of theto most beautiful landscapes and tour unspoiltis your free day so why not visit Fleetwood Market, places seedelicious them. rushing rivers and tumbling this an enjoyable gardens and wide ofBidefordto leisure that crosses the river linking other coastline give way torange the Preseli Hills,amenities historic is ideally in Folkestone, true shopper’s paradise. break. towns based that you can imagine.and we include a makes areas ofand Devon. towns, little villages. reputation.

| ||555Days |||£419 6th13th February £349 1st May |Days | £389 March 5 Days 4th April Days £289

visits to some lovely coastal and inland towns

| |5 Days | |£479 20th February | |55Days | £379 8th May | £429 15th March Days

17th February 3| 5 Days | £269 || 5| Days || £399 2nd May | £389 14th March Days

4th April 5 Days £339

11th April 5 Days £339

landscaped, pedestrianised town centre, peninsula tumbling into the vast Atlantic Ocean, scenic river infectious cruise, a relaxing ride and contrast with stunning Beamish and historic The East Anglia coast is starkly beautiful, the resort’s zestbefore fortrain life, or maybe with an ice-cream visiting the Eric birthplace of William Shakespeare and a with promenade almost completely surrounded by the sea.

Cornwall bordered by a large range of shops, a clean, visits to historic towns.

This is a place where Durham, including the historic Bowes Museum, homeMorecambe it’s just that, uniquely, whatever youraroutine, Statue, and The Tern Project, series relaxing river cruise, the city of is loved for its dramatic coastline, captivating fishing well-managed beach and seafront renowned you can recharge your batteries, get off the of the famous ‘Silver Swan’.

The region has of public art installations inspired by the birdlife more, creating an idyll of rural charm.

As a Blackpool can offer a perfect break from it.of Worcester, and theitsbeautiful scenic Cotswolds. harbours and of course, pasties and cream teas! beaten track Bay. and escape the everyday. lots to offer no matter what time of yearCity you Morecambe contrast, we feature the lovely Cathedral

wood & Lovely Lancashire Morecambe promenade. & ofvisit.

Norwich, and the Norfolk Broads.

The South Lakes5 Days| £299 Tour Highlights 3 9th May | 5 |Days 25th8th February | 5Days Days| |£439 £349 27th February | £299 May | 5

© Lancaster City Council

THE HISTORIC CITY OF WORCESTER BLACKPOOL BEAUTIFUL CORNWALL BEAUTIFUL NORFOLK & WYE VALLEY & THE ROYAL BLENHEIM, SEZINCOTE AND THE DURHAM, BEAMISH &COAST BOWES EASTBOURNE HEART OF ENGLAND CORNISH WINTER WARMER MORECAMBE & ST ANNES ON SEA & STRATFORD-UPON-AVON The Doric Hotel ~ 3 Star Rosemundy House Hotel AA ~ CITY FOREST OF DEAN KENNET & AVON CANAL The Haddon Hall Hotel ~ 3 Star The Blackwell Abbey Hotel, Great Malvern ~ Rosemundy House Grange Hotel Hotel ~ TheThe St. Ives Hotel THE SOUTH LAKES A holiday in Blackpool will leave you feeling Fownes Hotel ~ 3 Star 4 Star Bells Hotel & Country Club ~ 3 Star Best Western Brook Hotel, Norwich The Best Western Blunsdon House Eastbourne is a town with grace and elegance 4delighted Star 4 Star St Annes on Sea, on the Fylde Coast, offers a gentle We are to feature a selection of tours Auckland Hotel refreshed, relaxed and recharged – even if This an area offor literary Cornwall greats, ofisculinary Cornwall in the far west of Great Britain on that has something forborderland everyone –ona a Experience thisgo magical peaceful way of life.

St Annes boasts a beautifully to Beautiful Cornwall on a a nice you ~The 3isStar Hotel ~is4 Star beauty of the2023.

Durham Dales offers A lovely sightseeing tour with many things of are on the 25 awardhours awinning day! Perhaps it’s and Stroll along Morecambe’s brilliance and iconic heritage. We enjoy the a peninsula tumbling into the vast Atlantic restored Victorian Pier,inpromenadewithviewsacrossto interest, based Greatsurrounded Malvern with A lovely tour for the summer as we enjoy a Ocean, almost completely by athe North Wales, multi award-winning beach huts, beautiful Malvern Hillsafor overlooking the town. visit to unique Sezincote, 200-year-old the sea.

Cornwall is loved its dramatic wide-open sandy beach, plenty of places to eat, and We Indian feature some the best places the area Mogul Palace.

Spend a day exploring wonderful seaside charm.of

has to offer.

Blenheim with a horse-drawn course, itsPalace pastiesand andrelax cream teas! barge trip on the Kennet & Avon Canal.

ront and beach ossall Beach at | 5| 5 | £389 | 5| Days | £419 18th April Days 18th | £429 | £299 21st March Days 21stApril March 5 Days 3 Lytham Hall & Lytham ou can walk all the Stroll along Morecambe’s awardTour Highlights 3 3 Fish & Chip Lunch Cruise & m Cleveleys to winning promenade with an Barton Grange Garden Centre ursday is your free 3 Carnforth & Leighton Hall with ice-cream before visiting the Eric visit Fleetwood Afternoon Tea Morecambe Statue, and The Tern hopper’s paradise.

3 Kendal & Bowness-on-Windermere Project, a series of public art Dates & Prices £ with Lake Windermere Cruise installations inspired by the birdlife ston Hotel Monday 20th February | 5 Days of Morecambe Bay. Combined on Hotel, considered £379 Per Person with our visits to the Lake District wn jewel by many, is Single Supplement £50 Dates & Prices £ and Carnforth, you’re certainly in lar building which for a treat.

Monday 8th May | 5 Days Monday 27th February | 5 Days and was designed

|||£519 13th May || 65 13th April March | 5Days £339 21st Days £449 | Days | £389 28th March 5 Days

INTERESTED? 01706 648126 and request VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND BOOK ON-LINE SAVE £10.00 PER PERSON INTERESTED? 01706TO 648126 and request a copy of our 2023 brochure. You’ll be surprised at the variations of tours our facebook community bybe ‘liking’ our page to view a copyJoin of our 2022 brochure.

You’ll surprised at the variations of tours ellensmithtours we operate.

Visit our website www.ellensmith.co.uk latest offers, comments and various photographs. we operate.

Visit customer our website www.ellensmith.co.uk

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A SELECTION OF OUR COACH TOURS 2023

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THE ENGLISH RIVIERA - TORQUAY TENBY & PEMBROKESHIRE WINDSOR CASTLE CRUISE THE BOURNEMOUTH SOUTHSEA & CHICHESTER MATURE SINGLES –&WILTSHIRE The Belgrave Sands Hotel & Spa ~ The Giltar Hotel, Tenby ~ 3 Star THAMES HARBOUR CRUISE Marsham Court Hotel WEEKEND 4 Star For these holidays we stay in Tenby, with its The Bull Hotel, Gerrard’s Cross With seven miles of golden and sparkling Best Western Royalsands Beach Hotel sea, ~ Doubletree

by Hilton Swindon pastel-coloured buildings, streets, has An award-winning resort where elegant the vibrant cosmopolitan townnarrow of Bournemouth ~ 4 Star A lovely, out-of-season long weekend visiting Victorian villas, a bustling harbourbreak and palmit3 allStar – a vast variety of shops and restaurants, endless

Mature Singles – Wiltshire Weekend theAbeautiful, rolling countryside Wiltshire, withofits lovely tour as we discover of the splendour

Mature Singles – Surprising Surrey Tenby one of the prettiest resorts South A greatis tour for the summer – stroll in along countryside offering peace and relaxation, and

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BOURNEMOUTH SPRING, SOUTH SHIELDS & SCARBOROUGH Mayfair Hotel~ 3 Hotel Star THE DURHAM COAST The Park Manor

With seven miles of golden sands and Scarborough enjoys anHotel unrivalled position The Little Haven ~3 Star as one sparkling sea, the vibrant cosmopolitan town of Britain’s premier coastal resorts, yet also lies A great Spring tour based in South Shields oftantalisingly Bournemouth has all – Yorkshire’s a vast variety of close to it North rugged overlooking the River Tyne and Little Haven shops and restaurants, endless countryside fringed beaches give the Riviera its national park. You can enjoy golden beaches, ancient woodlands and bustling mighty market towns.

Beach. explore the scenic coastline before Surrey, withyou its visit beauty and intriguethrough A lovely, out-of-season long Royal Windsor and explore Windsor peace andgardens, relaxation beautiful, Wales. take a stroll beautiful, award-winning gardens.

Southsea seafront, the historic cathedral superbWe parks andand a wide range of well-earned name.

Tour the Highlightsoffering Tour Highlights 3 and 3 Whether enjoying time ingardens. the historic city of Durham as its is nestledthe in south-east England weekend break visitingathe Castle.

Offering welcome contrast, we also award-winning town along beaches, or enjoy a ride leisure amenities which has given Scarborough city oforChichester and enjoy a relaxing 3 Royal Botanic Garden Kew 3 Glass of Wine with Dinner Each and boasts vibrant towns and beautiful, rolling countryside of well as a visit to Newcastle-upon-Tyne. enjoy a relaxing cruise along the River Thames. along justifiable reputation. thecruise Pembrokeshirecoast, Tenby is an harbour and indulge with a gin3tasting Ellen Smith_2023.qxp_Layout 1 22/09/2022 pm Page 42is Private Dining with Wine Tasting Evening picture-book2:59 villages.

Surrey Wiltshire, with its ancient woodlands ideal base. at Bombay Sapphire.

Experience on Saturday Evening 3 50% Bar from 18:00-21:00 Each England’s most wooded county and bustling market towns.

17th by March Days || |£289 28th Days £359 Doubletree Hilton Swindon 3 Visits to the Market Towns of |||545Days 21stMarch April £489

3 Guildford & Denbies Wine Estate and home to rolling valleys | |6scenery | |£499 | | 5 Days | | £419 26th March 20th March |hills 5 and Days | £369 3rd April 4th April so there’s stunning all 25th April 5Days Days £459 25th April |55Days Days |£339 £439

Evening

This 4-star hotel is in lovely Wiltshire countryside, a mile from Windmill Hill on the outskirts of Swindon. All the comfortable, contemporary bedrooms are en-suite and have TV, hairdryer, iron & ironing board, telephone, and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel has a lift, restaurant, lounge bar, fitness suite, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Marlborough & Salisbury 3 Visit to the Timeless Village of Lacock & Devizes

£

Dates & Prices Friday 17th March | 4 Days £289 Per Person Single Supplement NIL

NORTH DEVON & CORNWALL PICTURESQUE ISLE OF WIGHTPEMBROKESHIRE The Durrant House Hotel ~ 3 Star & BEAUTIFUL GOWER The Trouville Hotel Based in the port of Bideford, this tour

The Ivy Bush Royal Hotel, Boasting award-winning and combines the best ofbeaches, Beautifulunspoilt Cornwall and spectacular scenery,~ and rich, historical heritage, Carmarthen 3 aStar delightful North Devon.

Bideford’s narrow the Isle of Wight has something for everyone to back streetspicturesque and alleyways link the quay and TheDiscover natural beauty of the Pembrokeshire coast enjoy. villages, spectacular the river, andbeaches. the old road hasfamed aislovelybridge andand thesandy Gower Peninsula all over cliffs, Our are base Sandown, that crosses the river linking Bidefordto other the world.

Glorious sandy and rugged a traditional seaside resort withbeaches long stretches of areas ofaDevon. coastline give way pier. to the Preseli Hills, historic beach and Victorian

around. We’ve got a bit of a theme going on so if you like a glass of wine or two, then this tour is for you!

Federation House Hotel

£

Dates & Prices

Friday 7th April | 4 Days £389 Per Person Single Supplement NIL

Federation House is a stunning architectural award-winning venue with a large atrium area with restaurant and bar. All beautifully designed, spacious, en-suite bedrooms have TV, climate control, complimentary Wi-Fi, minifridge, and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel has a lift.

PERTHSHIRE, ST. ANDREWS & SKEGNESS & THE BEST OF KENT, THE BEAUTIFUL GARDEN DEVONSHIRE & ILFRACOMBE MATURE SINGLES – SURPRISING HEART OF ENGLAND EDINBURGH LINCOLNSHIRE u Excursions Included OF Abbey ENGLAND The Royal & Fortescue Hotel ~ The Hotel SURREY Salutation Hotel, Perth ~Garden, 3 Star Royal u We travel to the Royal Botanic Kew. Discover theThe world of science Hotel, Skegness ~ 3 Star Star The Heart of EnglandPlus is a place steeped in history, art, 3Federation Best Western Burlington Hotel House Hotel behind the botanical collections, with over 50,000 living plants to be found the best Perthshire is a region of breath-taking variety, Experience of Lincolnshire with and culture.

Based in Great Malvern with the beautiful A short to break excursions to interest ~4 Star across this UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the vast Arboretum an itswith Surrey, towns with beauty and intrigue is nestled from its serene glens and endless expanse of historic and villages, a thriving seasidein Malvern Hills overlooking the town, we take you on

Alpine rock garden, there’s something to see in every corner.

See rare and everyone.

We take in North Devon throughout south-east England and boasts vibrant towns and Known as the Garden of showcasing England, Kent boasts forest to its bleakly moors, resort and ‘Bomber Country’ heritage. alush lovely sightseeing holiday some of the threatened plants inbeautiful the world’s largest Victorian Glasshouse or visit the to with visits interesting attractions which, picture-book villages. Surrey is England’s most beautiful beaches, stunning castles, exciting very best rivers the region to offer. rushing and has tumbling waterfalls.

Mediterranean habitat and discover its incredible plant diversity.

We return wooded county and to rolling hotel, hills and valleys when combined withhome our excellent culture, andto delicious Our tourTasting Experience the hotel withfood time to& getdrink. ready for our Wine this so there’s scenery all around. makes thisstunning an enjoyable break. is ideally based in Folkestone, and we include

MaturevisitsSingles – Mature Singles – to some lovely coastal and inland towns Wiltshire Weekend Surprising Surrey | 5| Days | £339 | 5| 4Days 4th April 4th 11th7th April April Days| |£339 £389 27th March| |55Days Days || £289 £339 27thApril March 5 Days | £419

evening. Passion for wine has no limits. We’ll be sampling some delicious, hand-picked wines from all over the world. We will be treated to a glorious dinner and a wine professional will pair a delicious wine with each course and explain its history and the reasons he has chosen that particular wine.

At the end of the meal, you will be able to sample Surrey, more wines chat to and intrigue withand its beauty A lovely, out-of-season long Tour Highlights Tour 3 the Expert andHighlights purchase the wine of your 3 choice atisanestled special price. in south-east England weekend break visiting the u Excursions Included Whether you are a wine connoisseur or just a wine lover, a wine-tasting 3 Royal Botanic Garden Kew 3 Glass of Wine with Dinner Each and boasts vibrant towns and beautiful, rolling countryside of party is funEvening for everyone from novices to sophisticated wine drinkers.

3 Private Dining with Wine Tasting u We head into the picturesque, rural northeast of Wiltshire, to the lovely picture-book villages. Surrey is Wiltshire, with its ancient woodlands breakfast this morning before we head to Guildford, a riverside Experience on Saturday Evening 3 50% Bar from 18:00-21:00 Each market town of Marlborough. With one of the widest Streets in the towns. u A leisurely England’s most wooded county andHigh bustling market town with a stunning high street and beautiful architecture.

Explore one of UK and lined on both sides with characterful old buildings, Marlborough 3 Guildford & Denbies Wine Estate Evening and home to rolling hills and valleys the town’s many historic heritage sites its vibrant shops or enjoy a stroll Doubletree by Hilton Swindon has an array of high-quality shops. We continue to Salisbury, a cathedral 3 Visits to the Market Towns of so there’s stunning scenery all through picturesque riverside scenes. From here, we continue our Wine This 4-star city of ageless beauty and captivating history. Gathered aroundhotel the is in lovely Wiltshire Marlborough & Salisbury around. We’ve got a bit of a Dates & Prices £ theme and visit Denbies Wine Estate, milecare from Windmill Hill 3 Visit to the Timeless Village of Cathedral is a modern, medieval city, full of buildingscountryside, crafted withathe theme going on so if you like a with 265 acres currently under vine Friday 7th April | 4 Days of another age. on the outskirts of Swindon. All the Lacock & Devizes glass of wine or two, then this tour and a production capacity of 1 £389 Per Person u We visit the lovely village of Lacock, timeless and looking itWYE has comfortable, is for you!

BEAUTIFUL NORFOLK COAST &as thoughcontemporary VALLEY & THE ROYAL BLENHEIM, AND THE THE HISTORIC CITYplay.

OF BLACKPOOL BEAUTIFUL SEZINCOTE CORNWALL Single Supplement NIL just stepped out of a medieval ThisWORCESTER National Trust Village are is perfectly bedrooms en-suite and have million TV, bottles! Here, we enjoy an Dates & Prices CITY FOREST OF DEAN KENNET & AVON CANAL Indoor Wine Tasting Experience – £ preserved, so no wonder, then, that it’s the star of many movies and period hairdryer, iron & ironing board, Federation House Hotel & STRATFORD-UPON-AVON TheDiplomat Doric Hotel 3 Star enjoy a glass of ~ Denbies Sparkling Rosemundy House Hotel AA venue ~ with a The Cumbria GrandandHotel The Hotel dramas including Cranford, the adventures of a telephone, certain wizard andfrom tea/coffee making Federation House is a stunning architectural award-winning Friday 17th March | 4 Days~ 3 Star Bells Hotel & Country Club Best Western Brook Hotel, Norwich Best Western Blunsdon House Wine in the cinema featuring ‘The Hogwarts School!

We continue to the historic market town of Devizes, A holiday in Blackpool will leave you feeling Fownes Hotel 3 Star 4 Star facilities. a lift, beauty £289 large atrium area with restaurant andHotel bar. All beautifully designed, spacious, PerPembrokeshire Person Thehas natural of the coast is In contrast to our other~ Lake District holidays, this The hotel Grand Atlantic Vineyard Through the Seasons’, Experience this magical borderland on a if en-suiteHotel ~is3with Star its colourful medieval past, wealth of history and architectural heritage 4inTV, Star refreshed, relaxed and recharged restaurant, lounge bar, fitness suite, bedrooms~ have climate control, complimentary Wi-Fi, miniSingle Supplement NIL – even famed all over the world.

Glorious sandy beaches and Cornwall oneThis set at morerelaxedpace.

Enjoyleisurely is more anaarea oflisted literary greats, of culinary ishas the west of Great Britain followed byaa relaxing tasting of four of ride Somerset lots far of surprises waiting to beon with than 500 buildings, and abeautiful, large Market in the heart scenic river cruise, train and and Place complimentary Wi-Fi. tea/coffee making The hotel has a lift. you are on the go 25 hours a day!

Perhaps The East Anglia coast is starkly with seemingly endless rugged coastline give way to it’s thefridge,A breakfasts and shorter days, take in stunning lovely tour for facilities. the summer as we enjoy a Denbies award-winning wines. brilliance aand peninsula tumbling into the vast Atlantic of town. and iconic heritage. We enjoy the discovered.

From stunning beaches, green spaces,

towns, and little villages.

1st May | 5 Days | £419

LAZY DAYS LAKE DISTRICT

8th May | 5 Days | £479

2nd May | 5 Days | £399

PICTURESQUE PEMBROKESHIRE

WESTON-SUPER-MARE & SOMERSET SPLENDOUR

visits to historic towns.

This is alife, place where Preseli Hills, historic towns, andfor little villages. the resort’s infectious zest or maybe

visit to unique Sezincote, a surrounded 200-year-old Ocean, almost completely byrange of woodlands, lakes & more, covering a wide you canthat, recharge your whatever batteries,your get off the Excursions u Included it’s just uniquely, routine, Mogul Indian Palace.

Spend aits day exploring the sea.

Cornwall is so loved forto dramatic landscapes.

There’s much explore in Somerset beaten track and escape the everyday.

Blackpool can offer a perfect break from it. www.ellensmith.co.uk Palace and relax with a waterfalls, horse-drawn u WeBlenheim travel the Royal Botanic Garden, Kew. Discover the world of ancient science Worcester, and the beautiful scenic Cotswolds. fromtowildflower meadows, beach of Norwich, and the Norfolk Broads. barge trip the Kennet &50,000 Avon Canal. behind the botanical collections, with&cream over living plants to be found wells, unique carvings underground reservoirs. course, its on pasties and teas!

scenery, beautiful towns and villages, and watch birthplace of William Shakespeare and a themore, worldcreating goriver by incruise, cosy cafes and rooms onathis an idyll ofhistoric ruraltea charm. relaxing the city ofAs scenic contrast, we feature the lovely Cathedral City 42 holiday.

18th April | 5 Days Days|| |£329 £389 10th April 8th May | |55 Days £439

10thMay April| |5 |55Days Days| ||£299 £449 18th April Days £419 9th

across this UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the vast Arboretum to an Alpine rock garden, there’s something to see in every corner. See rare and April 4 Days | £359 threatened plants14th in the world’s largest| Victorian Glasshouse or visit the Mediterranean habitat and discover its incredible plant diversity. We return to the hotel with time to get ready for our Wine Tasting Experience this evening. Passion for wine has no limits. We’ll be sampling some delicious, hand-picked wines from all over the world. We will be treated to a glorious dinner and a wine professional will pair a delicious wine with each course and explain its history and the reasons he has chosen that particular wine.

At the end of the meal, you will be able to sample more wines and chat to the Expert and purchase the wine of your choice at a special price.

Whether you are a wine connoisseur or just a wine lover, a wine-tasting party is fun for everyone from novices to sophisticated wine drinkers. u A leisurely breakfast this morning before we head to Guildford, a riverside town with a stunning high street and beautiful architecture. Explore one of the town’s many historic heritage sites its vibrant shops or enjoy a stroll

21st 5 Days Days || £519 £449 13thApril May || 6

VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND BOOK ON-LINE TO SAVE £10.00 PER PERSON INTERESTED? 01706 648126 and request our2023 facebook community our page to variations view a copyJoin of our brochure.

You’llby be‘liking’ surprised at the of tours ellensmithtours latest offers, customer comments and various photographs. we operate. Visit our website u Excursionswww.ellensmith.co.uk Included 16

u We head into the picturesque, rural northeast of Wiltshire, to the lovely market town of Marlborough. With one of the widest High Streets in the UK and lined on both sides with characterful old buildings, Marlborough

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A SELECTION OF OUR TIPS FOR BUYING YOUR FIRST COACH TOURS 2023 MOTORING

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WHEN it comes to purchasing your first caravan, campervan or motorhome – especially if you are a first-time buyer of such a vehicle – the prospect may seem daunting, perhaps even a little overwhelming.

How do you know where to look, what features to consider WINDSOR CASTLE & CRUISE THE THAMES and how to choose the right unit forBull yourHotel, needs? Gerrard’s Cross The ~ 4 Star If Ayou’re lovelylooking tour as for we specific discover the splendour of Royal Windsor andfirst explore tips on buying your van, mighty Windsor Castle.

OfferingShow a welcome contrast, we also Rob Debenham, Manager enjoy a relaxing cruise along the River Thames. of The Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Show, is here to give his | £489 advice on someApril of the |most important things 21st 5 Days to look for as a first-time buyer to make sure that you and your vehicle have the best adventures possible.

Before you part with any money, think about why you want this vehicle and what you will be using it for. Do you plan to embark on a PICTURESQUE PEMBROKESHIRE new adventure, travelling across the country & BEAUTIFUL GOWER (or world) in your new home? Or will it be Bush excursions Royal Hotel, forThe longIvy weekend and summer Carmarthen ~ 3 Star staycations? What you want the van for and The natural beauty of the Pembrokeshire coast how to use it, willare playfamed a big role in andyou theplan Gower Peninsula all over the final world.

Glorious your decision of sandy vehiclebeaches choice. and rugged coastline give way to the Preseli Hills, historic

and little villages.

Atowns, good starting point is speaking to fellow caravan and motorhome owners. Use this 1st May | 5 Days | £419 as an opportunity to ask questions about the caravan, campervan or motorhome they own. Why do they like it? What would they recommend and why? What is something they wish they knew before they purchased it? These conversations will help you ensure you’ve made the right decision when it comes HISTORIC toTHE choosing your van.CITY OF WORCESTER & STRATFORD-UPON-AVON Attending such as The Fownesa show Hotel ~3 StarCaravan, This is an area of literary greats, of culinary Motorhome & Holiday Show, or similar is brilliance andway iconic heritage.

Wedecisionenjoy the another great of helping your birthplace of William Shakespeare and a making.

They fantastic one-stopcity shops relaxing riverare cruise, the historic of that Worcester, and the beautiful scenic Cotswolds. allow you to see a wide variety of vehicles under one roof, get up loose, explore inside and familiarise yourself with them.You’ll | 5 Days 8th May also get to speak to expert dealers| £439 and manufacturers so you can ask all the questions you need about specific vehicles.

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capability already installed, so it’s worth looking into when browsing models.

SOUTHSEA & CHICHESTER HARBOUR CRUISE Best Western Royal Beach Hotel ~ 3 Star A great tour for the summer – stroll along Southsea seafront, visit the historic cathedral city of Chichester and enjoy a relaxing harbour cruise and indulge with a gin tasting at Bombay Sapphire.

plan to live in your van or just want to use it for the25th occasional adventure, there| £459 are some | 5 Days April necessities when it comes to what you will need to buy or install for your vehicle.

You may want to make getting a fixed bed, for example, a priority. The alternative would be converting your table into a bed and vice versa or sleeping above the seats in the cab.

KENT, THE BEAUTIFUL GARDEN OF ENGLAND Another handy feature your van may benefit Bestis Western Burlington Hotel from a solar panelPlus on the roof. By installing ~ 4 Star a solar panel, you can easily top up your Knownbattery as the and Garden of England, leisure lessen the worryKent that boasts you beautiful beaches, stunning castles, exciting will run it down, especially when you are culture, and delicious food & drink. Our tour is ideally based Folkestone, include going off-grid.

A inleisure batteryand is a we power visits to some coastal and inland and towns source that can lovely fuel the 12V appliances equipment in a caravan or motorhome. These 2nd May | 5 Days | £399 batteries are designed to provide a steady level of power over a prolonged period of time and are used for the lights, television, kettle, oven and similar appliances in your van.

Unless you plan to undergo your van adventures with no electric appliances, you will probably be picking up a leisure battery BLACKPOOL during the purchase When you do, The Doric Hotelprocess. ~ 3 Star you may feel though there is soyou many A holiday in as Blackpool will leave feeling refreshed, recharged – But even choices thatrelaxed you feeland overwhelmed. asif you are on the go 25 hours a day! Perhaps it’s with everything in this process, try making the resort’s infectious zest for life, or maybe sure youthat, thoroughly research andyour choose a it’s just uniquely, whatever routine, Blackpool offer a perfect from it.on trusted andcan high-quality brand.break Depending your use, you may also want to think about having multiple leisure batteries.

w.e llen smit h.co .uk

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Remember, getting any kind of van – a caravan, campervan or motorhome – should be an exciting prospect.

This is the starting point of the many thrilling adventures still to come, and thoughSOUTH it may initially feel daunting, SPRING, SHIELDS & feelings COAST of fear can always be THE these DURHAM quelledHaven by extensive research on your The Little Hotel ~ 3 Star behalf so tour you can be in sure you Shields are doing A great Spring based South overlooking the River Tynetoand Little everything possible make theHaven best Beach. We explore the scenic coastline before purchase for you. enjoying time in the historic city of Durham as well as a visit to Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Returning to Manchester Central from the 12th to the 15th of January 2023, | £439 the Caravan, & Holiday Show. To 25th Motorhome April | 5 Days find out more – www.caravanshows.com

TIPS FROM GLOSSOP CARAVANS Before you start looking for your perfect DEVONSHIRE & ILFRACOMBE holiday home on wheels, there’s quite ~ a lot to The Royal & Fortescue Hotel consider.

3 Star Glossop Caravans have been in the business for over 45excursions years and to have helped A short break with interest everyone. of Wepeople take infind North thousands theirDevon dreamthroughout holiday with visits to interesting attractions which, home on wheels—and we can help you too! when combined with our excellent hotel, We’re to tell you that there’s nothing makeshere this an enjoyable break. more freeing than spending time in your own little slice of paradise—and we can help | 5 whatever 8th Days | your £479 you make thatMay happen; needs, we’ve got the right caravan to suit them. And if you don’t know what those needs are yet?

That’s fine too! Our knowledgeable team have created some handy tips to help you figure out where to start.

It’s time for the big question. What type of BEAUTIFUL CORNWALL caravan do you need? You might be asking Rosemundy House Hotel AA ~ yourself: what does it matter? Isn’t a caravan a 4 Star caravan?

Well, not quite. There are all sorts of Cornwall is in the far west of Great Britain on caravans to choose from, the Atlantic small and a peninsula tumbling intofrom the vast Ocean, almost completely by lightweight to the large andsurrounded luxurious.You’ll the sea. Cornwall is loved for its dramatic need to consider what car you will be towing with, how planand to use your caravan, and course, its you pasties cream teas! whether you have family or friends coming along on the trip? many people | 6how | £519 9th May | 5 Days | £299 13th MayIf so, Days will be in your party? What kind of space will And finally, the last suggestion of what can they need to sleep and relax? In addition to be installed in your van to make life just that INTERESTED? 01706 648126 that,request what kind of experience do you want little bit easier is a refillable gas bottle – this and Once you know what van you want and how to have?

Do you want quiet, quality time as a a copy of our 2023 brochure. You’ll of tours will bebe suresurprised to save you a lotat of the moneyvariations in you want to use it, regardless of whether you the long run.

Many vans do come with the we operate. Visit our website www.ellensmith.co.uk 17

MOTORING couple? Or would you like to take advantage of all the space available so you can entertain others while travelling?

Here are a few examples of our current stock to show you some variations in sizes and prices.

Elddis Avante 462 2012 A 2 berth caravan selling RRP £12066 This 2-berth caravan is ideal for solo travellers or couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life. It has an end washroom with a shower, cassette toilet and sink. There’s also a fully equipped kitchen with a hob oven and fridge/freezer, so you never have to worry about cooking!

The lounge area converts into a comfortable double bed that will keep you cosy at night.

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50 PLUS MAGAZINE

area for extra sleeping space for your kids.

The full kitchen and shower room are ideal for cooking up delicious meals and taking showers after a long day exploring. With blown air heating to keep you warm you’ll be nice and toasty in the evenings. And if you want to unwind with some music, there’s an external BBQ and stereo system so you can entertain the family.

Swift Challenger 625 SE 2015 6 Berth Twin Axle RRP £22566 Looking for a little extra space? This 6-berth caravan with twin-axle suspension is perfect for the whole family, grandparents, and kids.

You can hit the road in comfort and safety.

It has a fixed bed in the rear and a double bed in the living area. Plus, there are two side bunks above the dinette, so everyone can get their own space—even when they’re all together! It has central heating, and solar panels to keep you warm in winter and powered up. Plus, you’ll have continuous hot water with an Alde Flow system. The fully equipped kitchen has everything you need to cook up a storm (or just heat up some soup). And finally, it has a rear-end bathroom—with everything you need.

All used caravans from Glossop Caravans come with a 15-month exclusive Platinum warranty. So, you can rest easy knowing that your caravan will be in tip-top shape!

A few things to think about

Coachman VIP 520 2014 4 Berth RRP £18766 The double bed in the lounge area will make sure you get a good night’s sleep, while the bunk beds can be set up over the side dinette

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Awnings are the perfect way to double your living space while you’re on holiday. So, whether it’s that family holiday or romantic getaway with your other half, an awning will give you the extra space you need.

Sometimes you just want to see something in person before making a decision. That’s

why we’ve created a showroom where you can do just that! We’ve set our awnings up so you can see them in action and get a feel for how they look. It’s a unique experience that will help you feel confident in your purchase! and we’ve got the broadest range of awnings in the country! Once you’ve picked out your perfect awning, you can even outfit it with groundsheets to make your caravan lifestyle more comfortable!

You’ll be spending a lot of time in your caravan, so it’s important to make sure it’s equipped with everything you need.

But with all the gear you need to take, it’s easy to forget about one thing: weight.

The more you pack into your caravan, the heavier it becomes. This can be a problem when towing. And every extra pound adds up, so it’s worth looking at specially-made, lightweight interior accessories - everything ranging from cutlery and kitchen accessories to tableware and tumblers. Towing mirrors are a must! If you don’t already have them fitted, investing in a set of towing mirrors will extend your field of vision on either side of your caravan. We stock a huge range of essentials at our on-site shop and can make your caravan comfortable and safe during your holiday. And if you’re looking for more than just essentials, then our shop assistants will be more than happy to help you pick everything else you need for life in your home-from-home.

One of the most important things you’ll have to consider when buying a caravan is where you’re going to store it. After all, your caravan is a large, expensive item that you’ll want to keep safe when it’s not being used.You’ll need a safe place where your caravan will be protected from thieves and other hazards. If you don’t have the space to store your caravan at home and are struggling to find a secure site yourself, we recommend a website called Cassoa where you can find secure storage sites across the UK by putting in your location.

We’re launching our Autumn sale, with hundreds of great bargains and special deals all designed for those looking for their first caravan. Don’t miss out on this great range of products at great prices! You can view our range at www.glossopcaravans.co.uk, please don’t hesitate to contact us for advice on what best suits you & we can provide you even more tips!

P R E S E N T I N G

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AUTUMN SA L E START

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ON RRP

T H E NEW S EA S O N W IT H OUR GREAT DEA L S

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STEP INTO YOUR FUTURE AND BEGIN A L IFE TIM E OF M E M OR IE S

ROBERT LAING 07775 694 985 rob@glossopcaravans.co.uk

CALL US 24/7, WE’RE WAITING TO HELP YOU!

Tel: 01457 868011 www.glossopcaravans.co.uk

WE’RE WAITING FOR YOUR CALL

SHAUN COULTHURST 07983 574 235 sc1@glossopcaravans.co.uk 19

FOOD | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

THEO RANDALL’S ITALIAN PANTRY Theo Randall’s passion for food was born from regular family holidays across Europe and from a young age he was destined for a culinary future. His career began as a waiter at London’s acclaimed Chez Max and after only a few weeks, Max Magarian noted Theo’s talents and invited him to work in the kitchen where he spent the next four years following an apprenticeship in classic French cuisine. In 1989, Theo joined the up-and-coming River Café and quickly found his culinary home with the legendary Ruth Rogers and Rose Gray MBE. After a year’s secondment cooking alongside Alice Waters at Chez Panisse in Berkeley, California, Theo returned to The River Café and brought inspiration from the bountiful Californian produce he had been working with.

Theo then remained at River Café for a further 15 years as head chef and it was under his patronage that the restaurant received its first Michelin star in 1997. He left to launch Theo Randall at the InterContinental, which opened in November 2006. His commitment to delivering rustic produce-driven Italian food from the prestigious address of No. 1 Park Lane has earned him loyal followers and rave reviews from critics and food-lovers. While he is a regular on national television, including BBC One’s, Saturday Kitchen, Theo remains true to his culinary roots and can be found at the restaurant most services.

He has published three successful recipe books: PASTA (2006), My Simple Italian (2015) and The Italian Deli Cookbook (2021), and his latest book, The Italian Pantry, released on 1 September 2022.

TAGLIATELLE WITH MUSHROOMS, PINE NUTS AND PANCETTA This recipe is a perfect midweek dinner; easy to prep and comforting to eat. There are lots of really good, dried egg tagliatelle pastas on the market – I always go for the brands Rumo or Giovanni Cocco. Or, of course, you could always make fresh pasta.

Serves 2–3 Ingredients • 100g (3½oz) pancetta, cut into matchsticks • 75g (2½oz) pine nuts • 250g (9oz) chestnut mushrooms, thinly sliced • 1 garlic clove, finely sliced • 1 teaspoon thyme leaves • juice of ½ lemon • 100g (3½oz) mascarpone • 250g (9oz) dried tagliatelle • 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley leaves • 75g (2½oz) parmesan, grated, to serve • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method Heat a large, heavy-based saucepan over a medium heat. When hot, add the pancetta to the dry pan and leave it to cook for a few minutes, until the fat has rendered and the pancetta is crispy. Add the pine nuts and cook for about 1 minute, until they are a light golden colour. Remove the pancetta and pine nuts from the pan with a slotted spoon and set them aside to drain on kitchen paper. Leave the fat in the pan.

Add the mushrooms to the pan over a medium heat. Fry until the mushrooms have released their liquid and become syrupy, then add the garlic and thyme and fry for 2 minutes more. Add the lemon juice and 20

season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat down to low and stir in the mascarpone. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the tagliatelle and cook for 2 minutes less than the packet suggests, then, using tongs, transfer the pasta to the pan with the mascarpone mixture. Add a ladleful of the pasta cooking water and stir through the parsley. Mix everything together with a wooden spoon and cook for 1 minute, adding another ladleful of pasta cooking water if the tagliatelle feels a little dry. Toss the pasta so it is juicy and coated in the sauce.

Serve the tagliatelle in warm bowls with the crispy pancetta, pine nuts and a little extra parmesan sprinkled on top.

MEATBALLS IN TOMATO SAUCE WITH BURRATA AND CROSTINI This dish was on the menu at Theo’s Simple Italian in Kensington – sadly, the restaurant is no longer, but the dish is still very much a classic. The richness of the meatballs with the vibrant tomato sauce is very comforting and it’s a perfect dish to serve to a large gathering. I love the addition of the chopped burrata, as it makes the tomato sauce taste even sweeter and adds a soft, creamy texture. Scale the quantities up or down as required.

Serves 4 Ingredients • 1 ciabatta or sourdough loaf cut into thin slices • 1 garlic clove, to rub • 1 x 150g (5½oz) burrata sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the meatballs

• 400g (14oz) pork mince (ground pork) • 400g (14oz) beef mince (ground beef) • 2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley leaves • 1 garlic clove, crushed to a paste with a little sea salt • 3 tablespoons whole milk • 100g (3½oz) dried breadcrumbs • 75g (2½oz) parmesan, finely grated • 3 eggs • 1 teaspoon sea salt • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

For the tomato sauce

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 1 garlic clove, finely sliced • 1 teaspoon chopped thyme (not lemon thyme) • 1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped • 600g (1lb 5 oz) tomato passata

Method Place all ingredients for the meatballs into a large bowl and combine to form a firm, evenly distributed mixture. Cover your hands in olive oil, take a generous tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a meatball the size of a golf ball. Repeat until you have used all the mixture – you should have 16 meatballs. Place them on a tray in the fridge to firm up for 30 minutes.

Place a large, non-stick, ovenproof frying pan over a high heat and add a tablespoon or so of olive oil. When the oil is hot, begin browning the meatballs (in batches if necessary), ensuring you don’t cook them completely – a little colour on the outside is perfect. Once they are all browned off, remove them from the pan and leave them to one side while you make your tomato sauce.

Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/400°F/Gas 6. Make the tomato sauce. Add 1 tablespoon of the olive oil to the pan and set it back over a medium heat. When hot, add the garlic, thyme and chilli. Simmer for 1 minute, then add the passata. Cook gently for

15 minutes, or until the sauce has reduced by half. Season the sauce and take the pan off the heat.

Place the meatballs in the pan on top of the sauce, evenly spaced, then transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through. Leave to one side for 5 minutes to cool slightly (leave the oven on). Drizzle a little oil over your ciabatta slices and sprinkle them with some sea salt. Place them on a baking sheet and bake them for 4 minutes, or until crispy, then rub them all over with the garlic clove. Meanwhile, finely chop the burrata, then use a spoon to drop dollops all over the baked meatballs. Give everything a sprinkle of sea salt and a good grinding of black pepper, then serve in the middle of the table alongside the crostini and let everyone help themselves.

The Italian Pantry by Theo Randall (Quadrille, £26). Photography: Lizzie Mayson.

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FOOD | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

AUBERGINE AND COURGETTE LASAGNE My mother used to make the most delicious lasagne – I used to get so excited when I knew it was coming. She was brilliant at making the béchamel sauce – it was always perfectly creamy but never thick and floury. The trick to this was to cook it very slowly and use equal quantities of flour and butter. This is a vegetable lasagne, but it has as much flavour as the traditional meaty offering because you roast the aubergines (eggplant) first. Try to use egg-based lasagne sheets as they tend to have more flavour and are not as brittle when you cook them (or, better still, make your own sheets of pasta).

Serves 6 Ingredients • 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 2 red onions, finely sliced • 500g (1lb 2oz) courgettes (zucchini), cut into 1cm (½in) rounds • 1 garlic clove, finely sliced • 500g (1lb 2oz) tomato passata • 8 basil leaves, roughly torn • 3 aubergines (eggplants), sliced into 2cm (¾in) rounds • 300g (10½oz) egg-based dried lasagne • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the béchamel

• 75g (2½oz) unsalted butter • 75g (2½oz) plain (all-purpose) flour • 500ml (17fl oz) whole milk, warmed to just below boiling point • 150g (5½oz) parmesan, grated, plus extra for sprinkling

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Method Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/400°F/Gas 6. Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Once hot, add the onions, courgettes (zucchini) and a good seasoning of salt. Cook for 20 minutes, until the onion and courgettes are soft.

Heat another tablespoon of the olive oil in a separate saucepan, then add the garlic. Fry the garlic for 30 seconds, then add the passata and cook the mixture gently for 20 minutes, until reduced by half. Season with salt and pepper, then stir through the basil.

Brush both sides of the aubergine (eggplant) slices with olive oil and season them with salt.

Place the aubergines in an even layer on a baking sheet lined with baking paper. Bake them for 15 minutes, then turn them over and bake them for a further 15 minutes. Remove the slices from the oven and, when they are cool enough to handle, cut them into halfmoons. Set them aside and leave the oven on.

To make the béchamel, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over a low heat. When the butter has melted, add the flour and cook it out for a couple of minutes, stirring to combine.

Next, add the hot milk and stir continuously to avoid any lumps forming. Cook the sauce gently for 20 minutes, stirring all the while, until smooth and thickened, then mix in the parmesan and check the seasoning. Leave to one side.

Mix the aubergines, courgettes, onions and tomato sauce together in a large bowl and check that everything is seasoned well. Use the remaining olive oil to oil a baking dish, then place a layer of lasagne sheets in the base of the dish. Add one-third of the vegetable mixture in an even layer, then top this with one-quarter of the béchamel sauce. Repeat this twice more, then finish with a layer of lasagne sheets and a final layer of béchamel sauce. Sprinkle the top with some more parmesan, then bake the lasagne for 35 minutes, until the pasta is cooked and the top is golden. Serve with a little extra grated parmesan on top, if you like.

GET CHRISTMAS READY THIS YEAR… AT YOUR LOCAL DEPARTMENT STORE Partywear & Accessories, Christmas Wrapping & Cards, Stocking Fillers and so much more!

Get ahead of the game this year and avoid the Christmas shopping crowds.

Enjoy a short break from your shopping and call into Cafe Moda the downstairs coffee shop or visit our brand new Tearoom on the Upper Ground Floor, whether it’s Breakfast, Morning Coffee, Lunch or Afternoon Tea you won’t be disappointed.

While you’re here why not treat yourself to Festive Afternoon Tea, vouchers are available too, perhaps the perfect gift idea for a friend or family member.

Visit Broadstone Mill Shopping Outlet in Stockport in the run up to this year’s festive season: With thousands of products all under one roof, relaxed shopping environment and free parking it’s the perfect place to go! There is ‘Something for Everyone’ this Christmas, with 100’s of brands and massive reductions of up to 75% OFF the RRP, in store.

You’ll find a great selection of festive goodies, including Gifts for the whole family,

There may even be a chance to meet Santa himself!

We hope to see you in store very soon!

There’s lots more going on too … here’s a date for your festive diary, Saturday 19th November is the Festive Family Funday, running 11am-3pm, which will include the popular Worker Bee Markets, with artisan stalls, hot and cold food and drink, charity raffle, entertainment, community and charity stalls with activities for the children too.

www.broadstonemillshoppingoutlet.co.uk

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HOME | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

Re-Appreciating your Home Or, you may need to re-think the current curtains. Are they too dark and don’t enhance the sunny rays that light up your room? New curtains don’t have to cost a fortune and opting for full-length ones can make your room look much larger.

Blinds today come in all kinds of styles and patterns so pop along to your local store or go online to see how they can enhance any window.You’ll be amazed at the latest styles – everything from vertical blinds to roller blinds and from Roman to Venetian, vision blinds and pleated.

JUST when you’re looking around your home and considering moving or drastic renovation a visitor praises your property and forces you to re-consider your views.

Every now and then, it’s a good idea to re-appreciate your home and remember just what attracted you to it in the first place. This may have been its location, its sunny outlook, airy rooms, its living flowthrough or simply its potential.

It’s good to recall what drew you to it and remember those feelings.

It also helps that re-appreciation to take a quick sensory tour of your home and recall the pleasures – your cosy couch, the warmth of the sun coming through your lounge windows or the feel of a fluffy rug under your feet.

Have you got lovely neighbours? Is the area pleasant and convenient for your lifestyle, your work and your social life? Can you live in that property comfortably within your means?

If you listen to your visitors’ opinions, you may well see your home through a fresh pair of eyes and be pleasantly surprised.

However, if you find that you’re still not 100 per cent happy with where you are, consider using all those pluses you’ve re-recognised and improving them.

Those lovely WINDOWS that let in the light so well may need enhancing or even changing, perhaps to double-glazed windows that help keep insulation costs down.

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Take an honest re-appraisal of the OUTSIDE of your house and see if that smart exterior you originally bought into is long gone and might need a fresh coat of paint or new fascia boards.

Is it still the welcoming place you remember or does your FRONT DOOR need painting or replacing with something more modern and brighter?

A front door that allows in plenty of light can transform a HALL so it’s well worth the investment and taking a look around local suppliers. And while we’re in the hall, does it give a positive first impression of who you are?

If not, it may be that you need to de-clutter it – move all those coats and shoes into a cupboard or shoe-racks, decorate in bright colours and add a large mirror to reflect light and give an illusion of space if it needs it.

A change of FLOORING can make a huge difference to any area of the house but especially in the popular areas like the lounge and kitchen where family members tend to gather.

Whether it’s carpet, wood, eco-friendly bamboo or tiles, new or different flooring can make you take that fresh look at your home and learn to re-love it.

colour scheme and adding updated modern taps, for example, can make you love it again.

Wooden flooring with attractive rugs can be particularly effective in a lounge, especially with a log-burning fire or open fireplace.

The glow just seems to start there and emanate around the room so if you always liked the cosiness of your lounge, here’s a chance to enjoy it once more.

As we go into the chillier months, it’s worth ensuring your CENTRAL HEATING is working properly.You can’t re-appreciate your home if you’re shivering!

Do you need a new boiler? Bring in a qualified Gas Safe engineer near you - to find them go to https://www.gassaferegister. co.uk/ or try British Gas at https://www.britishgas.co.uk/homeservices/boilers-and-heating/guides/trusted-gas-engineer.html Check on DRAUGHTS in your home for the same reason and take a special look around doors and windows. This is going to be a particularly energy-conscious Winter and draught-proofing is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to save energy and save money.

The same is true of BEDROOMS where units may just need updating. Call in a local bedroom furniture supplier that has either done work for someone you know who can recommend them or has positive reviews posted online.

Uncontrolled draughts just blow money out of the door or window. The Energy Saving Trust states you could probably save around £45 a year by draught-proofing doors and windows and, if you have an open chimney, when you’re not using it draughtproofing could save around £65 a year.

Just remember that your property still needs ventilation with air flowing in and out of your home to stay fresh, dry and healthy. So make sure you don’t block or seal any intentional ventilation like extractor fans, underfloor grilles or airbricks, wall vents or trickle vents on modern windows.

A change of relaxing colour scheme here can also soon make you re-appreciate this important room. Even something much cheaper like changing the colour of the bedding and curtains can make a dramatic difference.

When thinking of a new BATHROOM. The same idea of changing accessories can help you re-like your bathroom. Change the shower curtain and add matching bathroom accessories or bring in plants in matching pots.

KITCHENS can look outdated and unloved but you don’t have to make a big investment to change your mind on yours. New doors or worktops can make a real difference and just changing the

If you are improving your home, it’s worth keeping in mind as a homeowner that you might be able to get help towards interest payments on your mortgage and/or loans you’ve taken out for certain repairs and improvements.

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GARDENING | 50 PLUS MAGAZINE

FESTIVE PLANTS THAT ARE EASY TO CARE FOR big blooms upright. Plant the bulbs no later than the beginning of November and keep the soil moist, but not drenched. When flowering, the bright red blooms will enjoy a semi-cool, humid spot in the home with bright, indirect light and plenty of moisture.

In spring, return the plant to a sunny area and water well.

Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) Poinsettias are a pretty, bright plant that is widely grown indoors over Christmas for their beautiful, red bracts. They should only be watered once the compost has begun to dry out. Overwatering poinsettias can really damage the plant, instead, regularly misting the plant with a spray bottle is beneficial, especially when flowering.

Red Lion (Amaryllis) Brits are being offered advice on the easiest festive house plants to care for this Christmas.

Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima)

Experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have investigated the low maintenance plants to make the perfect Christmas centrepiece.

They’ve looked at varieties including traditional festive foliage choices like poinsettia, holly, and rosemary, all the way to unusual blooms like the Christmas cactus, desert roses and African violets.

Festive families looking to take an organic approach to their Christmas decorations can also take inspiration and deck their halls with pretty plants.

With growing concerns about plastic use, they’re much more eco-friendly options and are reusable year after year with the right care.

Chris Bonnett from GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “There are some fantastically festive plants and flowers which are easy to care for during the chillier months and will add the spirit of Christmas to any room.

“Many of these blooms also make for beautiful presents, so are worth bearing in mind when buying for green-fingered friends or family members.”

“Whilst these varieties are easy to care for, they can be pretty picky with heat and light. A windowsill might seem like a good idea, but the temperature really fluctuates in front of the glass in the winter, especially if there’s a radiator underneath, “Avoid draughts and hot spots near radiators or fires too. Instead, display them somewhere that’s bright yet maintains a steady temperature.”

GardeningExpress.co.uk’s seven festive plants that are easy to care for:

Red Lion (Amaryllis) The massive, six-pointed amaryllis bloom makes an impressive festive decoration and a support stake will be handy for keeping 26

Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera) The Christmas cactus is nothing to do with either the Christmas tradition or the story of Christ’s birth, but they are easy to maintain during cooler months. They look amazing too, flowering from late November all the way to late January. They will live happily in humid environments like kitchens and bathrooms, as they grow in tropical rainforests in the wild. During the summer months, when the risk of frost has gone, they can be placed outside. This will help to ripen new growth and encourages flowering. Keep them in a shady spot and protect them from slugs

Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera)

Preventative measures, like sheltering plants, clearing up spaces and insulating soils work great, but sometimes extra steps need to be taken to keep plants healthy.

Chris Bonnett from GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “Over summer, gardens provide a sanctuary away from the business of life, but over winter they start to look dilapidated.

“The youngest plants in the garden are most likely to be affected by harsh weather. However, even the hardiest varieties sometimes become damaged over a long cold spell.

Rosemary (Salvia Rosmarinus) Rosemary is the most authentic Christmas plant about, as it’s thought to be one of the plants in the manger where baby Jesus was cradled.

The plant is an attractive evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves, and it is super easy to care for. Provide the herb with well-drained, sandy soil and a solid amount of sunlight. These plants thrive in warm, humid environments and should be moved into a cosy spot in the home over the winter months.

Desert Rose (Adenium) These strong plants are native to regions with warm climates, so should be kept out of the cold at all costs. When kept as a house plant, they are the perfect specimens for nervous or novice gardeners. A fat trunk is an indicator of health on this plant, whereas a skinny stem is the plant screaming that it needs watering.

African violets (Saintpaulia) Whilst these aren’t the easiest plant to look after, they are blooming gorgeous. They take up a small amount of space in the home and can make a delightful display when a few are bunched together. African violet plants should be watered when the soil doesn’t feel moist with lukewarm or tepid water which has been left to stand for 48 hours. These fussy flowers will be well worth the beautiful blooms that come during colder climates.

Holly (Ilex) This Christmas classic is a symbol of eternal life and fertility. Back in the day, people believed that hanging the plant in homes would bring good luck and protection. When grown in the home, holly will thrive in moist soil positioned in slight suntraps. However, they aren’t just limited to December along with the decorations, they make a lovely year-round houseplant.

Protecting plants from bad weather With the height of winter approaching, gardeners are being offered the best ways to protect plants over the chilly months.

The experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have pulled together the best ways to make sure your plants survive the drop in temperature and shorter days.

Tips include insulating plant pots with bubble wrap, making mulch and recycling old bottles to save the plants and some pennies.

“If you spot damage to any plant, it is best to remove it straight away to stop it spreading elsewhere. Look at any winter upset as an opportunity to improve your garden skills and make your plants stronger as a result.”

GardeningExpress.co.uk’s tips to protecting plants this winter Bubble wrap Gently covering delicate plants with bubble wrap can insulate the plant and keep it protected against some harsher weather. Covering the top of the soil with a wrap is a good idea too, as it will protect it from going through frequent periods of freezing and thawing.

Get ahead of the game and start potting next year’s plants in bubble wrap lined pots in anticipation of the next chill.

Secure structures Plants often rely on leaning against structures, like sheds, fences, and walls to grow to their full potential. Make sure that these structures are strong enough to make it through the windy, rainy, and cold winter. Plants trained against walls can be protected from the cold with fleece-covered frames.

Remove damaged shoots and limbs Before any turbulent weather, it is a good idea to streamline plants by removing any dead shoots. This will also reduce the risk of any long limbs or branches snapping and tangling.

Come inside When ice or frost is forecast, take the more sensitive plants and offer them some shelter. Somewhere unheated is best. Plants will hate being brought inside the home, as it will be too hot, but consider clearing out space in the shed or garage for them to live.

Recycled plastic bottles Individual plants can also be protected using homemade “mini cloches” made from plastic drinks bottles. To create this type of cloche, simply cut the top and bottom of the bottom before placing it around the plant. This method should protect delicate leaves on young plants from chilly temperatures.You should try to remove these cloches each morning to ensure the air inside does not overheat and damage the plant.

Mulch Mulch can be made using organic matter like decaying leaves, bark, straw, or compost. Placing it around the roots of plants will help insulate and protect them from the cold, however, it only tends to work with hardier plants.

Cutting Winter throws lots of challenges at gardeners and no matter how well looked after your plants are, there is still a small risk of them dying. It’s a great idea to keep the plant tags that comes with nonperennial plants or take a cutting from perennials that are a worry.

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GROWING HERBS FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS DINNER Families wanting to cook Christmas dinner with their own freshly grown herbs are being offered advice on how to grow them over winter.

The experts at GardeningExpress. co.uk shared how to keep herbs alive and tasty over the colder months.

Mint is perfect for making lamb sauce, fresh parsley is tasty with turkey and sage is a great all-rounder with legends linking it to Mary and baby Jesus.

Some herbs are stable enough to withstand frost and snow, whereas others will be setting up camp in the house or conservatory.

Chris Bonnett from Gardening Express said: “Tender herbs, like basil, are likely to only come dried or frozen by the time Christmas rolls around.

“However, Christmas dinner always tastes best fresh. Festive classics like thyme and rosemary are very hardy and can withstand snowy weather.

“Others, like oregano, can be grown inside during chillier months.

All they usually need is a well-draining soil, container, and a sunny windowsill.”

Gardening Express’ seven herbs to grow this winter: Myrtle This tasty herb has been grown in England since the 16th century and the berries go beautifully with game and pork. The leaves and flowers can also be dried and added to potpourri for a fresh scent.

Sadly, the myrtle plant isn’t hardy. Over the winter months, it needs plenty of protection and will be happy in a conservatory or greenhouse.

Mint Mint is a festive favourite, its addition in sauce to accompany meat, mojitos and warm water as a refreshing drink is very welcome.

The plants will thrive indoors and will provide fresh leaves throughout the whole of winter.

Rosemary Rosemary is perfect on roast potatoes but also makes a great plate decoration during the winter too. Plants and small trees are easy to pick up throughout the year and will happily live outside. However, it is best to keep the plant above freezing. A garage or hallway is a good choice.

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Sage The strong aroma and lovely taste of the sage plant make it a handy herb to have around. They love sitting on bright windowsills and will produce leaves all year round. Its strong, intense flavour is perfect in Christmas day stuffing.

After the sage leaves have been picked, they can be kept in the fridge, frozen, dried, or preserved in oil.

Thyme The more neglect the thyme plant experiences, the tastier it apparently is, so bad gardeners should opt for this herb. The plant will happily grow in poor soil whilst rarely getting watered.

However, they will need mulching during frosty periods.

Parsley Hardy herbs like parsley are likely to keep growing outside, even during snowfall. When cold their growth will significantly slow down and parsley tastes best when freshly picked. For this reason, consider bringing them indoors to ensure a big crop to pick from.

Leaves can be harvested the leaves begin curling and for optimal flavour, pick from the plant early in the morning.

Oregano Oregano is another plant that hates the frost and should be kept inside during chilly spells as they will die out if not. Come spring they are happy outdoors in full sun and in well-drained soil as the drought-tolerant herbs need watering only during extremely dry periods.

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