Stockport Issue 69

Helping you to enjoy life ... Our

home is YOUR HOME

House Care Home

BANKFIELD 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.

Offering High Dependency Residential Care and Permanent, Short Term, Respite and Day Care.

l Organised activities by our experienced full time Activities Coordinator

l Outings to the Theatre, Canal Boat Trips, Museums & Garden Centres etc.

l Links to the local community through Churches

l CCTV within the home and grounds

l Accommodates 30 residents

l Located in private grounds with landscape gardens, pergola, stone barbecue and pond

• Up to 30 residents, 24 single and 3 Twin Rooms

• 3 Lounges / 2 Dining Rooms / Large Conservatory

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

• Permanent / Short Term / Respite Stay

• Day Care Service

• Home Made Cooked Food

l Hairdresser, Chiropodist, Ophthalmic and Dental Services, Church Services

l Six Weekly Resident Relative Meetings

• Social Activities on a Daily Basis

• Beautifully Appointed Formal Gardens

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.

• Visiting Practitioners

• Regular Outings

Helping you enjoy life which their importance. who Choice •

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

• Weekly Hairdressing

• CCTV/ 24hr Security

Activities take place within the care home and in the community through local Churches and Nursery Schools. During the summer months Bankfield House Residents are able to enjoy our gardens, planting herbs and tomatoes etc, in the raised garden beds.

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.

We also hold our annual barbecue, (weather permitting) 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.

2023 UK & EUROPEAN COACH HOLIDAYS & SHORT BREAKS

Whether you’re looking for a romantic break for two, a family holiday or getting away with friends, Robinsons’s Holidays offers 12 hotels in 10 of the most popular UK destinations. Our fleet of 26 luxury Mercedes coaches provide return travel in comfort and style from your pick up point and will take you directly to your hotel, aiming to arrive between 3 – 5pm.

If you’d like to get out and about to explore the local area on your holiday, then all of our breaks can also be booked on a self-drive basis so you’ve got the freedom of having your own car.

Every break includes:

£174

from Request your brochure now!

Comfy en suite accommodation

Breakfast & 3-course evening meal

Live nightly entertainment

Self-drive & coach inclusive breaks Coach & Self-Drive Holidays January 2023 – December 2023 Return coach travel (self-drive option available)

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TWITTERING ON

By Angela Kelly

Dealing with life’s crises – perma and otherwise

COLLINS of dictionary fame chose as their Word of the Year for 2022 “permacrisis.”

I don’t think it’s a word that many of us have ever actually uttered out loud but it was probably an apt one for the year as it is the feeling of living through an extended period of instability and insecurity.

And 2022 with the war in Ukraine, climate change, inflation and the cost of living crisis certainly prompted permacrisis. I suspect that many of us have been changed by all this.

British author Penny Mallory – obviously someone who knows how to tackle any kind of crisis as she’s taking part in the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Rowing Challenge in 2023 – told the Daily Mail about ways to deal with modern life’s crises.

She insists that “mental toughness isn’t about being aggressive, strong and macho. Some of the quietest, gentlest people are mentally tough.”

Penny says that resilient people don’t “wallow or dwell on failure. They acknowledge the situation, learn lessons from mistakes and move forward. They are mentally tough and they are more likely to thrive.”

She advises thinking of failure as learning. Be prepared to leave your comfort zone – “Playing it safe and refusing to leave your comfort zone may be a recipe for failure but risk is scary.

“Champions learn to open their minds to possibilities, managing risk and leveraging it to their advantage.”

Penny adds that life is not all about academic success and that qualifications are “not the biggest factor in success. Only 30 per cent of any achievement you make will be down to your skill, talent and intelligence, but 70 per cent of your achievement will be down to your mental toughness, focus, resilience and determination.”

Now that should be enough to allow us to tackle any permacrisis.

Putting the accent on being yourself SHOULD the accent you use really

influence the way that people treat you?

Plainly, today it really shouldn’t but, of course, being humans with all the prejudices that this entails for many, it does.

This thorny subject came to light again recently when a man from Stockport in Greater Manchester revealed that he had changed the way he spoke to fit in at university.

This happened right from Freshers’ Week when he realised he spoke differently to his fellow students.

At university, he was once asked if his home town was “one of those desolate wastelands where the factories used to be.” Now, even allowing for both snobbery and a major misunderstanding of UK environments, this is nasty stuff.

His experiences, and many others, were being gathered for The Sutton Trust’s Speaking Up report which examines the impact that someone’s accent has on their life journey, especially in education and the workplace.

The report shows that public attitudes to the various accents across the country have remained largely the same over time. Standard received pronunciation, French-accented English and classic varieties like Scottish, American and Southern Irish all ranked highly with people.

While this latter finding is not really a surprise because our national ear does seem to be attuned to appreciating, for example, the Scottish lilt, what is odd is the negative attitude towards some regional accents.

Katie Zacharczuk, a solicitor born and raised in Liverpool, said it was a “culture shock” when she went to university as previously she had only been around people who talked like her.

She was worried about being judged “less intelligent” or “not as valuable to an organisation.” To her credit, she never changed her accent and has a successful career.

Sir Ian McKellen was mocked for his Northern vowels when he went to Cambridge University. His accent was the butt of public school boys and he feared it would affect his ultimate ambition to become an actor.

Interestingly, Sir Ian says that he has noticed that original accent “coming back” to him recently – a situation he doesn’t regret “because it is part of me.”

That feeling was echoed by a friend of mine who worked in Government in London in a very good job but found her accent was the cause of much negative comment from colleagues in particular. She didn’t change it but she did eventually move back to her home town. She realised that the way she spoke was, like Sir Ian, all part of who she really was – and she was proud of that.

Separating fact from fiction

AS a new series of blockbuster Netflix series The Crown returns to TV screens it’s no surprise that so does the controversy.

Is it or is it not “largely” based on truth or are whole chunks of it made up?

While it’s unlikely that the current Royal Family would helpfully clear up the salient points about whether Princess Diana courted the media herself or about the real relationship between then Prince Charles and the Queen, there are those in the know who can come up with some guidance.

The general impression given is that, yes, parts of The Crown are fiction and sometimes not even based on actual events.

As an avid viewer, it’s hard not to be seduced into thinking you are watching something factual because we easily recall media headlines backing up the feeling that this is genuine.

The real danger, though, is that The Crown is presented as a documentary, complete with unassailable “truths”, when it isn’t.

Young viewers and those who have not followed the Royal Family’s comings and goings over the years are tempted to accept what they see and not question it.

TV is a great medium for explaining situations, especially in hindsight, and can assemble large amounts of information and experts to provide a helpful overview.

Unfortunately, when you chuck entertainment into the pot you may get a different outcome and the temptation to “expand” on fact and “manipulate reality” can skew truth.

Perhaps more could be done by the programme-makers to emphasise that the series is based on fact but is still fiction.

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO ON THE PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY

The Pacific Coast Highway hugs the California coast for more than 650 miles. Peter Ellegard suggests some of his favourite things to do along the way.

1. Get your kicks at the end of Route 66

Stroll 110-year-old Santa Monica Pier to the marker signalling the end of Route 66. The so-called Mother Road runs for 2,400 miles across eight states from Chicago to Los Angeles satellite city Santa Monica and celebrates its centenary in 2026. Buy souvenirs of it at end-of-the-pier shop 66 to Cali.

View surfers riding Pacific rollers and wide Santa Monica State Beach from on high on the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel at the pier’s Pacific Park amusement park and get a nostalgia rush on its historic Looff Hippodrome carousel.

The original Muscle Beach, next to the pier and alongside the Ocean Front Walk path, is where America’s physical fitness boom began in the 1930s.

Less than an hour’s walk, or 15-minute cycle ride, on the path is bohemian Venice Beach, where bodybuilders pump iron at presentday Muscle Beach and where its famous boardwalk pulsates with performers, artists and eclectic stalls.

Stay: New boutique hotel Venice V occupies a refurbished building right on the Venice Beach boardwalk that was once a glitzy hotel attracting early Hollywood stars.

The calm, protected waters are a perfect refuge for marine wildlife. Sea lions congregate on a purpose-built raft to bask, bicker and bark at each other, while sea otters wrap themselves in kelp and lay on their backs to feed, nap and care for their pups.

They can be seen from restaurants, bars and vantage points along the waterfront Embarcadero thoroughfare, but the best way to get a close-up view is on a guided kayak trip. Not too close to disturb them, though.

Whale-watching tours head offshore to see humpback whales, grey whales and dolphins, while migrating monarch butterflies cluster on eucalyptus trees in Morro Bay State Park from October to March.

Stay: Wake up to the sound of roosting herons and cormorants in an adjacent natural preserve overlooking the water at the Inn at Morro Bay.

2. Paddle with sea otters and sea lions at Morro Bay

A delightful, laid-back stop missed by many driving California’s Highway 1, nature is a key attraction at Morro Bay.

The bay from which this fishing port turned holiday, boating and water sports haven gets its name is actually an estuary all but enclosed from Pacific waves by a long sand bar and dominated by a towering rock often capped by a fog hat.

Sea Otter, Morro Bay Harbour © Peter Ellegard

Kayaking with Sea Lions, Morro Bay © Peter Ellegard

Sunset at Morro Bay © Peter Ellegard

3. Wonder at the opulence of Hearst Castle

Open for tours since mid-May after being closed for two years because of the Covid pandemic, the grandiose hilltop mansion built by publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst near San Simeon is a California State Park and a must-visit on the Central California coast.

Casa Grande, as he called the ornate 38-bedroom main house, was inspired by a historic Spanish church and incorporates architectural features taken from many old buildings across Europe into its fabric as well as being filled with a wealth of antique treasures, art and textiles.

It was originally a family home but became known for the lavish costume parties thrown by Hearst and his mistress Marion Davies for the rich and famous, among them Charlie Chaplin, Cary Grant, Bob Hope and Winston Churchill.

Perhaps its most opulent feature is the Neptune Pool, with its Romanesque temple, colonnade and classical statues.

Stop off to see magnificent elephant seals nearby at Piedras Blancas. Stay: San Simeon is the gateway to the dramatic Big Sur coastline and the Post Ranch Inn offers luxury and grandstand ocean views atop 1,200-foot cliffs at Big Sur.

owned by Charlie Chaplin’s personal cook, and people watch from cafes tucked between boutique stores and high-end fashion shops.

4. Explore charming and sophisticated Carmel

More than 30 years since Clint Eastwood was mayor of Carmelby-the-Sea, as it is officially called, this one-square-mile village is as quirky as it is quaint.

A permit is required to wear high heels, available free from City Hall. Carmel’s pretty cottages and houses only have names and no street addresses. There are no streetlights, nor parking meters, making it very visitor-friendly. It also has no pavements beyond the commercial downtown area.

You won’t find any chain restaurants, either. Instead, dine at welcoming independent eateries such as Casanova, set in a house once

Visit Carmel Mission, one of California’s 21 historic Spanish missions, relax on Carmel’s sandy beach and enjoy a slow ride on the Monterey Peninsula’s picturesque 17 Mile Drive.

Stay: Find your Zen in boutique hotel Tradewinds Carmel, an AsianCalifornian fusion with a lush meditation garden.

5. Ride the cable cars and streetcars of San Francisco

Unless you prefer hiking up and down its hilly streets, the most enjoyable way to get around San Francisco is by riding its venerable streetcars and cable cars.

There is a difference. The sleek F Line streetcars are enclosed and are powered by trolley poles connected to overhead wires, whereas cable cars on the three lines use an underground cable system and allow passengers to stand on outside footplates. Watching cable car operators manually turn them on the turntables at the ends of each line is fascinating.

Hop off for cheesecake and bubbles or coffee at the Cheese Cake Factory’s open-air patio on Macy’s rooftop overlooking Union Square. You can also use them to get to Fisherman’s Wharf, the city’s main tourist area, and Pier 39 from where you can take a cruise to Alcatraz island and sail under the Golden Gate Bridge. A metro system and rapid buses also allow easy, car-free travel around the city.

Stay: Stylish and contemporary Hotel Zoe is just steps from the Fisherman’s Wharf waterfront while sister property Argonaut is housed in a historic warehouse next to the wharf. Both offer free rental bikes.

Next steps

To book your trip to California and the Pacific Highway, call our Silver Travel Advisors on 0800 412 5678 or visit silvertraveladvisor.com

Beach at Carmel © Peter Ellegard

Neptune’s Pool, Hearst Caslte © Peter Ellegard

Cartmel Mission © Peter Ellegard

Cable Cars, San Francisco © Peter Ellegard

SHIRLEY BALLAS QUEEN OF STRICTLY

SHE was the Queen of Latin American Dance and now she’s the Queen of Strictly but for Shirley Ballas the journey has been as tricky as any complex samba routine.

In spite of attracting a worrying cache of trolls as Head Judge of the mega popular weekly dance competition, Shirley has waltzed straight into the hearts of viewers.

How else could we tell a heel lead from a flick ball change or appreciate the techniques of a fleckle without Shirley’s help? When she took over the role from fellow judge and much-loved dance icon Len Goodman six years ago, Shirley definitely had a tough act to follow.

But she was no newcomer to the world of either dance competition or judging. Shirley was already a well-respected figure in the dance world and a former Latin American champion with all the right moves. In fact, she was the ideal person for the Strictly top job.

She could never have known, however, just how far up the dance ladder she would climb when she was a seven year-old in Wallasey, Cheshire, taking up dancing for the very first time.

Her childhood had not been easy up until then. Her father had left the family when Shirley was just two and she and her Mum and brother David had very little money.

Shirley proved to be a promising young dancer and at 15 she moved to North Yorkshire to partner British ballroom champion Nigel Tiffany. They moved to London two years later but their partnership ended after Shirley was convinced to audition to partner dancer Sammy Stopford.

They married when Shirley was 18 to be partners both on the dance floor and in life. In the former, they were successful; one highlight was winning the Professional Latin title at the Blackpool Dance Festival in 1983.

Sadly, away from the ballroom, the pairing was less successful and the relationship ended five years later.

In 1985, she married dancer Corky Ballas and took the Professional Latin title in Blackpool in 1995 and 1996 with him. The couple then moved to Houston, Texas, to compete in America.

By then, she was already an established dancing coach and judge and she decided to give up competitive dancing. She worked with top US TV show Dancing with the Stars, commentating and giving master classes. The couple later divorced.

She came to widespread prominence in the UK when in May, 2017, it was announced that she would be joining the judging panel of Strictly Come Dancing on BBC One, replacing head judge Len Goodman when series 15 was aired in September that year.

Although Shirley was plainly well-known in the dance world, both in the UK and internationally, she was new to many viewers of the perennially popular programme. Fortunately, her warm personality, straightforward approach to contestants and phenomenal dance knowledge quickly made her a judging favourite.

She tries to be honest and positive with contestants, highlighting their strengths and offering useful advice on their weaknesses. She follows not only her own mind on this but also, like Len Goodman, upholds the strict rules of the world of dance and refuses to gloss over flaws.

Her no-nonsense approach and critiques have inevitably attracted some negative comments and, sadly, some of these have turned into serious online trolling.

So much so that Shirly recently reported a genuine loss of confidence, forcing her – in a career spanning five decades – to consult a doctor for the first time about her low moods and anxiety.

For, even though Shirley states that she has “always tried to do the best job for people watching at home” and understands that viewers don’t always agree with the judges’ scoring, she has found the trolling very upsetting.

She told OK magazine: “When it gets personal, that’s cruel.”

Shirley’s life has generally been far from plain-sailing and Christmas is a particularly difficult time. On December 5, 2003, her brother took his own life, making this normally festive time a painful one for her for a long time.

In 2019, amid general concerns about cancer, she had breast implants removed. In typical Shirley fashion, she was very open about the situation, discussing her decision on the Lorraine show and returning to the Strictly screen a short time after surgery, thus winning praise from fans.

It is largely thanks to the amazing knowledge of Shirley, now 62, that so many more viewers now understand the intricacies of dances from the American Smooth to the Argentine Tango.

She breaks down the technicalities to explain – and often demonstrate – technical moves that few viewers would otherwise appreciate without her helpful approach.

She is generous with her scoring, but only if a dancer deserves it, and will fight her corner even if her decision is unpopular. She is, however, always encouraging. She told young contestant Molly Rainford in the latest series: “I have not seen a rhumba walk like that in a long, long time”, much to the dancer’s delight

And she tempers even tough criticism with praise like “your musicality was amazing” and “this partnership is truly outstanding.” She will be with fellow judges and dancers when the Strictly Live Tour kicks off in January for two months, with Shirley a popular part of this interactive arena experience.

What is certain is that Shirley will always offers an expert’s wisdom along with kindness – and there’s nothing strict about that.

Dance has plainly been Shirley’s life and her son, Mark Ballas, is also a professional ballroom dancer.

Home & Interior Trends for 2023

The predicted trends to look out for in 2023 are all about bringing people together and creating joyful memories by entertaining at home and using each room to its full potential. With life getting back to normal it seems that entertaining friends and family is becoming more popular – and staying in may be the new going out.

While bedrooms became offices during the pandemic, it seems that for 2023 we are opting for desks in spare bedrooms or living areas instead.

New Year, New Ideas

With the start of the new year underway, many of us will be considering whether it's time to give our homes a well-deserved make-over in 2023.

Just like you may refresh your wardrobe with new accessories, maybe a new coat or some new shoes, our homes can also benefit from a bit of a refresh too.

New home decor trends can tempt us to update our homes subtly rather than changing things all together. Try new bedding, add a splash of colour or a different texture with a throw or cushions, maybe a freshly painted wall or a new piece of furniture, a little something in each room can make all the difference to your home.

Colour Trends & Shapes

Pantone, announced its Colour of the Year 2023 – as Viva Magenta (Pantone 18-1750) which is a lovely bright and bold choice. This colour is powerful and empowering. It is a shade rooted

in nature, descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength.

New to the scene for 2023 are wave shapes and sea colours too, inspired by the coastline, and you'll notice these waves on everything from lamp bases and furniture legs to table tops and material designs.

What are the key decorating trends for 2023?

One of the key decorating trends is to be more daring and expressive than ever before. Make bolder colour choices, embrace more patterns, mix your styles if it makes you happy, and find joy in the unusual or unexpected.

As sustainability continues to be in the forefront of people's minds for 2023, make more informed choices when updating your home and don't be afraid to re-use, recycle and re-imagine items that might seem 'out of date'. With the cost of living rising, why not try some easy DIY projects or upcycling furniture ideas too.

Visit the large Homeware Department at Broadstone Mill Shopping Outlet, Stockport.

During February there is a Homeware Event in store with special offers and prize draws on social media.

www.broadstonemillshoppingoutlet.co.uk

JAMES MARTIN’S POTATO

Host of ITV’s flagship cookery show, James Martin’s Saturday Morning, James Martin is one of the UK’s most popular TV chefs, whose enthusiasm and passion for food have won him countless fans. His accessible approach to cooking has been showcased across bestselling books including Islands to Highlands (2020), James Martin’s Great British Adventure (2019), James Martin’s French Adventure (2017), Home Comforts (2014) and More Home Comforts (2016). He regularly appears on the BBC, ITV and Food Network, as well as demonstrating live at the BBC Good Food Show and touring the UK with his own one-man show. Potato is the natural companion to James’s smash hit book Butter (2021).

Potato shows why the spud is a staple in so many cuisines, from rustic country kitchens to Michelin-starred restaurant tables. The embodiment of field-to-fork cooking, this superstar of the food world is showcased by James in a wealth of imaginative recipes that you’ll want to cook again and again.

COQUILLES ST JACQUES

Serves 6

I used to take the mick out of French chefs saying this is their fancy fish pie, but it does taste bloody amazing! And just look at it… super indulgent, yes, but a classic that should never be forgotten.

Ingredients

50g butter

50g plain flour

500ml full-fat milk

1 small bunch of parsley, chopped

12 scallops

300g prawns

FOR THE TOPPING

600g potatoes, peeled and diced

50g butter

2 egg yolks

Method

Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/gas 6. To make the white sauce, melt the butter in a pan, then whisk in the flour and cook out for 2 minutes. Add the milk and whisk to combine, then simmer until bubbling. Stir in the parsley. Put the scallops and prawns into scallop shells and pour over the sauce. Set aside to cool. Cook the potatoes in boiling salted water for 20 minutes until soft, drain and then pass through a ricer into a bowl. Mix with the butter and egg yolks. Pipe the potato mixture around the edges of the scallop shells then sit on a baking tray and bake for 15–20 minutes.

LOVAGE-CRUSTED FISH WITH SLICED POTATOES AND ASPARAGUS

This recipe came about due to the massive lovage plant I had in the garden. We first used it to make a crust for lamb, then by adding a bit of cream cheese we turned it into a great crust for fish. We use plaice or brill in the restaurant, but it’s good with any non-oily fish, although salmon works too. Lovage is a fascinating herb, which has got a sort of celery taste and smell and works brilliantly in a lot of dishes with potatoes – even soup.

Serves 4

Ingredients

150g butter

4 x 200g brill fillets, skinned

300g new potatoes, sliced

12 asparagus spears, sliced a few chives, chopped sea salt and freshly ground black pepper lemon wedges, to serve

FOR THE CRUST

30g lovage

50g Parmesan

1 thick slice of bread

1 small bunch of parsley

3 borage leaves

50g full-fat cream cheese

Method

To make the crust, place all the ingredients in a food processor and blitz until smooth. Put between 2 layers of greaseproof paper and, using a rolling pin, roll out to 3mm thick. Chill in the fridge until needed.

Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/gas 6. Heat a non-stick ovenproof pan, add the oil and 50g of the butter, then put in the fish. Season, then cook for 2 minutes. Flip over and cook for another 2 minutes.

Cut 4 pieces of crust to the same size as each piece of fish and sit on top of the fish. Place the pan in the oven and roast the fish for 5 minutes. Put the pan back on the hob, add 25g of the butter and cook for another minute.

Meanwhile, in a separate pan, cover the potato slices in water and the remaining 75g butter and cook for 10 minutes, adding the asparagus for the last 2 minutes of cooking time. Sprinkle with chives and season.

To serve, spoon the potato and asparagus onto plates and place the fish alongside with a lemon wedge for squeezing.

Potato by James Martin (£23, Hardie Grant) Photography: John Carey

A NEW YEAR, A NEW YOU

Part of that determination may be about your own health, wellbeing, work/life balance or your domestic situation. And a large part of it may be to do with your home environment and what you want to change to improve your life.

Improving your weight and fitness are relatively easy to plan – if not quite as easy to achieve! Healthy eating and more exercise are achievable, as you gaze into the slimmer, trimmer months ahead, via more discipline around mealtimes and more visits to the gym.

Altering your home may not be quite as easy to plan this year as the higher cost of living bites into all our finances and future plans. It is not, however, the end of the story.

It may be sensible to look at the levels of change in your home that you’d like to achieve. Do you want quite dramatic, slightly cosmetic or something in between?

Quite dramatic can involve moving house, downsizing or alternatively finding somewhere with more space to accommodate the daily needs of you and your family. This is certainly all under-pinned by personal finances and just what you can afford as this New Year unfolds its money merry-go-round.

It’s probably quite likely that the majority of us want something perhaps not as dramatic as moving home but well above new cushion covers.

This all requires a realistic look at your finances. If you’re not sure you can afford big changes visit debt charity StepChange at https://www.stepchange.org/debtinfo/your-financial-situation/makinga-budget.aspx about budgeting or Citizens Advice on https://www.citizensadvice. org.uk/debt-and-money/budgeting

If you decide to make structural changes to your home like an

EXTENSION, an ORANGERY or CONSERVATORY check first whether you need planning permission from your local planning authority through your local council.

You’ll probably need planning permission if you want to build something new, make a major change to your building like an extension or change the use of your building.

Experts like architects and builders can help you here. If you need an architect, try to go on recommendation from someone you know who can tell you about their experiences. If you need a builder, the same applies or find a trusted builder and reviews about their work by going to https://www.checkatrade. com/Search/Builder/in/Uk

As well as the cost of building, don’t forget that you will also have to RE-DECORATE and re-think FURNISHINGS in adjacent areas. It’s important to factor in all the potential costs before you start.

Fortunately, you can still make noticeable changes to your home without it necessarily meaning a building project.

A new, modern FRONT DOOR can also give it a more contemporary look as can new WINDOWS

The great thing about both these is they have a direct impact on your energy bills. So new windows in particular - if you have old ones which let in drafts – could make your home much cosier and ultimately more costefficient.

PAINTING the outside of your house can make a real difference to the look of your home because that kerb appeal is just as important to you as residents as it is to visitors.

Even investing in new CURTAINS can help to make your home warmer throughout. Long, lined curtains

NEW Years are always a time for change when you promise yourself that life will be better then and you WILL make it happen.

help keep expensive warmth in, and they can also help change the colour scheme in a lounge with matching cushion covers or a throw.

Picking up that new shade in a few ornaments or a picture will also brighten up a room and plants in coloured pots help bring the outside inside at a time of year when we’re happy to be indoors.

There is also nothing like the look – and smell - of new CARPETS. Choose a contemporary shade to brighten up current furniture and add to that vital warmth. Or you may prefer to have a wooden floor with modern rugs to offer that different décor.

LIGHTING can also really change how a room looks. There are so many choices of modern lighting now, especially with economical LED lights available, that you’ll be amazed at what’s on offer.

Opting for a modern central light, and possibly add matching wall lights, can give a room such a fresh, bright look. It banishes those dark corners forever and makes rooms look larger.

If your KITCHEN is the heart of your home, giving it a makeover could really impact on the quality of daily life. If new kitchen units could prove too much of an expense this year, new unit handles and doors could be worth the money in giving this important room a new image.

New blinds and kitchen accessories in complementary shades can add to that “new kitchen” look.

TIME

Do you dream of living in the country? Rural rambles, scenic cycle rides and a slower pace of life? Move to a brand new, fully furnished home and join a friendly, like-minded community at Mount Pleasant Park.

The same is true of the BATHROOM where a change of shower curtain, towels, blinds and bathroom accessories can really change the whole look.

BEDROOMS can benefit from new curtains, matching duvet sets and cushions and changing the walls and headboard to a soothing shade may guarantee restful nights.

Don’t forget the outside, either. Give your GARDEN a chance to be centre-stage in 2023. You may feel that you finally want to afford a new hot tub or spa in the back garden.

The British and Irish Hot Tub and Exercise Spa Industry (BISHTA) is very helpful if you’re looking for either of these or need to find companies which provide maintenance and water treatment products and accessories. Go to www.bishta.co.uk for information

Re-designing your garden can offer fresh delights. Decking is ideal for lounging with the family or it’s worth considering swapping grass for simple pebbled spaces with large plant pots and a few shaded areas for quiet rest or reading. This all gives a fresh way to enjoy the Great Outdoors when the weather allows.

If you’re looking for ways to transform your garden currently, the Royal Horticultural Society’s website is a mine of useful information and ideas. Go to www.rhs.org.uk to find out new ways with your garden.

WHY WE SHOULD CONSIDER A CARAVAN HOLIDAY

Many of us look to the summer as an exciting time to escape our everyday norm and embark on our summer holidays. We all look forward to that time away from the 9-5, meeting new people, trying new foods and experiencing new cultures.

However, with the cost of living rising and some still feeling uneasy about travel abroad, a caravan holiday, whether with a touring caravan, motorhome or campervan, could be the perfect solution. Rob Debenham, Show Manager, at The Caravan Motorhome & Holiday Show explains why we should consider a caravan holiday for our next getaway.

A caravan holiday has many great benefits and provides us with the opportunity to experience the many wonders that lie on our own doorstep. Having that sense of home comforts wherever you decide to travel, one of the many great benefits of a caravan holiday is that you have complete freedom in your destinations, when you go and how long you go for.

By being mobile you are free to take your road trip all over the UK (and beyond), exploring places and towns you may never have considered before and discovering hidden gems. Many caravan sites in the UK are often located near beaches, woodlands, forests and areas of natural beauty, all of which are perfect for enjoying the British countryside, seaside strolls and even toasted marshmallows around the fire in the evening.

What makes caravanning even better is that you are travelling with your home comforts. You can travel at your own pace and for however long you want, without the worry of rushing to the airport or missing a train. This means you can fully relax and enjoy this laidback break away from normality.

An escape in your ‘van doesn’t also have to be limited to just the UK. Destinations such a Spain and France are easily accessible by ferry and lead to countries, landscapes, sites and experiences you may have missed if travelling via plane or train.

Furthermore, by travelling this way, you get to avoid busy airports and train stations. Long wait times and cancelled flights can become a distant memory and even if you do need to queue to board your ferry, at least you can wait in comfort with a cup of your favourite tea in hand. Airport activity such as baggage reclaim is replaced with the freedom of the open road, and even the odd traffic jam can be made bearable, if not enjoyable, when surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside.

The traditional holiday abroad can often come with a lot of added baggage, especially if you have kids to entertain on flights, around the pool or at the beach. Colouring books, swimming noodles, toys and additional paraphernalia can all add up to a heavy suitcase that’s difficult to pack. With a ‘van holiday, you have more room to pack

exactly what you heart desires and if you have a furry friend that you don’t want to leave behind, you don’t have too.

A ‘van holiday makes a wonderful – and practical - family trip and if you are concerned about having enough to do with children and teenagers when parked up, you can check sites and their onsite activities or nearby attractions with ease with the Caravan and Motorhome Club and The Camping and Caravanning Club websites, show partners to Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Show.

The best places in the UK for a caravan holiday

Caravanning has never been more popular. Now more than ever, people are appreciating the immense freedom it gives, as well as the opportunity to stay at some of the most stunning places across the UK, at a very affordable rate.

To help those first time caravanners, or indeed those regulars looking for some fresh inspiration for where to stay in 2023, we’ve called on the Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Show, Show Manager, Rob Debenham to share some of his favourite sites across the UK.

Fishguard Bay Resort in Wales – This intimate and secluded resort provides breath-taking views in an amazing setting. Nearly all the pitches offer dramatic views of the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline, perched on the unspoilt western coast of Wales. Prices for caravans start at £22 per night.

The Sutton-on-Sea Club Campsite – The Midlands aren’t often remembered for their many coastal retreats but Sutton-on-Sea is a well-kept secret. With buckets of traditional seaside charm, the area is home to sandy shores, coastal walks and plenty of fun local activities like bowling, tennis and mini golf. Prices for caravans start at £20.30. Find out more details here.

Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park in Scotland – This award-winning caravan and camping park is set in the midst of the Highlands, at the foot of the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. The park gives you easy access to the many footpaths of Glen Nevis that take you through forests or alongside the beautiful River Nevis. Glen Nevis Holidays enjoys its own Highland Estate with grounds extending over 1,000 acres and is also home to a herd of Pedigree Highland cattle! Prices for caravans start at £27.50.

Summer Valley Touring Park in Truro – Deep in the heart of Cornwall, close to the popular holiday destination of Truro, this family-run park has great facilities set in stunning parkland countryside. Just 10 minutes to the nearby beaches of Perranporth and St Agnes, it offers picturesque views and countless things to do – from visiting one of the 36 National Trust properties nearby, to swimming in the sea, to visiting one of the many Poldark filming locations! Prices for caravans start at £25 per night.

Kloofs Holiday Resort in Bexhill – Set in 22 acres of tranquil and peaceful countryside in East Sussex, with incredible views over the South Downs, Kloofs is a perfect spot for you to explore the countryside, or visit the nearby beach at Cooden, just two miles away. With popular towns such as Bexhill and Eastbourne, and even Brighton, not too far a drive, you will have plenty to see and do while its facilities have received rave reviews. From £27 per night.

DOOR TO D OO R COACH TOURS 2 02 3

If you’ve never tried coach holidays before, why not let

HOW DOES IT WORK?

WE ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY BONDED

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

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

WITHIN 30 MINUTES.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

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.

SUPER HOTELS, ALL INCLUDED!

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

WE’RE OFF ON HOLIDAY THEN?

We use a wide range of mainly 3 and 4 star hotels, some privately owned many part of larger chains. All entrances and excursions are included in the price stated.

WE DO THINGS A BIT DIFFERENTLY THAN OUR RIVALS

WE DO THINGS A BIT DIFFERENTLY THAN OUR RIVALS.

All our tours include our ‘Door to Door’ service

That means that you are picked up by a taxi or small minibus right from your front door. No feeders, no interchanges, no changing coaches, no

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

WE ARE FINANCIALLY SECURE.

We are members of the Bonded Coach Holiday group overseen by The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Ltd. This is a Government Approved Protection Scheme.

WITHIN 30 MINUTES

We normally have everyone on board and we’re on our way We often have a second pickup at Stockport, but again this is timed for minimal delay

VISIT

OUR WEBSITE AND

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

COACHES AND DRIVERS.

We use modern executive coaches and all our drivers are experienced, mature and friendly!

WHAT HAPPENS ON THE RETURN.

Your taxi will be waiting for you to take you home.

TRAVEL INSURANCE?

WE NEVER DISCOUNT. therefore everybody on board pays the same price.

FINALLY

All our customers are offered our coach specific insurance, pre existing medical conditions are covered for UK travel with no upper age limit.

SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

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

Nothing we can think of!

BOOK ON-LINE

TO SAVE £10.00 PER PERSON

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

We’ve been established for over 120 yearsso we know a bit about coaching holidays!

50 Plus Travel sponsored by

SECRETS OF THE DOURO by Carole Tidball

Our holidays together seem doomed. My increasingly-less-mobile husband prefers to ’fly, flop and read’ (his novels need their own suitcase!) whilst I long to venture off the beaten track. Close proximity to fine dining is key to our holiday enjoyment, further limiting our options.

and drink. Starved of travel for a couple of years, our expectations were high. But would Emerald deliver?

Cruise Highlights

Not only did they deliver – they exceeded both our expectations. Highlights for me included a visit to the fairy tale gardens of Quinta da Aveleda near Porto. As we followed our guide through lush gardens, past the goat tower (I kid you not) and across a rickety bridge, we discovered an enchanting summer house. Here – concealed behind a fountain - the ladies of the manor escaped the heat of the day to take ‘afternoon tea’ – smuggling flasks of the estate’s cool, crisp Vinho Verde wine in their picnic hampers. I wonder how many toppled into the lake after their secret sessions.

Solution: a river cruise with Emerald. Why Choose Emerald Cruises?

I could envisage husband relaxing on deck, occasionally glancing up from his book to enjoy passing scenery: me joining onboard EmeraldPLUS activities – from early morning yoga to cookery demos and cocktail mixing – and onshore adventures in new and different places. Emerald’s additional EmeraldACTIVE and DiscoverMORE excursions are perfect for guests like me who strangely prefer discovering a destination’s hidden delights on foot, by jeep or kayak rather than the comfort of an air-conditioned coach.

Eagerly surveying Emerald Cruises’ brochure, we chose ‘Secrets of the Douro’ – 8 days sailing from the lively metropolis of Porto through sun-drenched terraced vineyards to visit iconic landmarks. Mateus Manor House (familiar to all 1970’s Rosé fans), the baroque village of Lamego with its picturesque shrine, and the beautiful university city of Salamanca beckoned. Visits to local Quintas along the route promised wine and port tastings and DiscoverMORE offered enticing, hand-picked experiences delving deeper into the region.

We’d already enjoyed cruises on the Nile, Rhine and Danube when my husband was more active and the Douro has been on my wish list for several years. Relatively unknown to many, the Douro was wild and unnavigable in places until relatively recently and was only tamed by the construction of dams and locks between 1965 and 1985. I was looking forward to an exciting combination of adventures off the beaten track, visits to vibrant cities and great food

Another highlight, not for the faint-hearted, was a hike to see Côa’s truly awesome ancient rock art discovered recently during the building of a new dam. Local school children had successfully mounted a nationwide campaign to preserve the area and halt the building work. Joining a small group of hardy Australian guests, I bounced off in a 4x4 through steep tracks before trekking in 36 degrees heat to view rock carvings. “There’s a reason why this area’s called Canada do Inferno,” observed our guide cheerily. Meanwhile, our less adventurous/more sensible compatriots studied replicas in an air-conditioned museum and enjoyed an entertaining workshop on stone-age toolmaking.

One of the included excursions was a trip to Salamanca. Such an amazing city – I was awestruck to see the actual crucifix that El Cid carried into battle, during our tour of the Cathedral. After our guided walking tour in fierce heat my companions mostly wanted

Mateus Manor

to shop and sit in shaded cafes during our free time so I set off to explore, crossing the river via a Roman bridge to view the city skyline reflected in the water. Our group came back together for the Tuna Band performance – cheerful young medical students dressed in medieval student robes playing traditional songs and performing energetic dances.

Similarly in Porto, a guided walking tour was followed by plenty of free time to explore. I hiked across the iconic Dom Louis bridge and took the cable car across rooftops to enjoy differing views of the city and to take photos of the rabelo – traditional Portuguese cargo boats used to transport port barrels upstream.

Star-Ship Emerald Radiance

What a pleasure to return each evening to our home for the week, the Star-Ship Emerald Radiance. Holding no more than 112 guests and 37 crew, she is Emerald’s smallest ship, purpose-built to navigate the narrow locks that have tamed the Douro in recent years. The friendly, all-Portuguese crew provided exceptional levels of customer service. Handrails gleamed, mirrors and windows sparkled. Drinks were served promptly in the bar. A memorable moment saw the entire crew (minus the captain who was busy steering the ship) downing tools and serenading us on the sundeck with a traditional song as we feasted on a barbecue of fresh sardines, juicy spatchcock chicken and salads. Another special moment occurred early morning when my yoga stretching on deck was interrupted by the crew busily cleaning the ships windows and moving in time to Queen’s “I want to break free.”

Our Panorama Balcony Suite held all our belongings with ease thanks to under-bed storage for suitcases, deep drawers and, yippee, a shelf to store John’s library! In addition to a high-powered hairdryer, mini-bar, safe and a full range of good quality toiletries, there were robes, slippers, an umbrella and two walking poles. Preholiday, Emerald had posted us rucksacks and also water bottles that

we could fill with ice-cold water or tea/coffee available 24/7 from machines in the lounge. These guys think of everything!

As cruise ships may only sail the Douro during daytime, my FOMO (fear of missing out) new vistas and lock experiences whist sleeping was allayed. Emerald also seemed to have bagged the best mooring spots and rarely tied up alongside other ships, allowing us uninterrupted views through our cabin’s floor-to-ceiling windows. (I’ll never forget on my first ever river cruise standing stark naked and flinging open our curtains to greet dawn on the river Nile, only to find a startled man sitting in his cabin inches away from ours. A ship had quietly docked beside us overnight).

The sheer convenience of having Radiance’s fine-dining restaurant within easy reach of our room was a real bonus. Carefully planned menus and accompanying wines reflected local or national produce wherever possible. Chef positively beamed when he tempted this vegetarian to taste slow-roasted pork sourced from a local piggery bred to produce the sweetest most tender meat. Melt-in-the mouth butterfish from the Azores starred in another memorable meal. Our charming and most attentive waiter, Daniel, remembered our drink preferences and gracefully met our cheeky requests for extra cheese and biscuits with a glass of tawny port.

Fellow guests helped make the whole experience even more special. We soon found our ‘tribe’ amongst the mixed group of Australian, Canadian, American and British guests. Our competitive gang of 60-something boomers outdanced and out-sang the competition during a music quiz. We all agreed we hadn’t laughed so much in ages. Many were returning customers with one couple enjoying their 8th cruise with Emerald – I can certainly see why.

Next steps:

To take an Emerald Cruise like Carole’s or to find out about their worldwide voyages and to book your Cruise, call our Silver Travel Advisors on 0800 412 5678 or visit silvertraveladvisor.com

Traditional Boats in Porto

Ladies’ ‘Tea House’

Goat Tower

Steve Howarth’s Test Drive HISTORIC BENTLEY

I MUST have died and gone to petrol head heaven… I am in a room with around 30 historic Bentleys worth many millions of pounds.

Where I actually am is at the newly created Bentley collection building at their iconic 1930s factory in Nantwich near Crewe - which boasts almost every significant model the luxury car maker has produced - including the second car ever made (see picture) which alone is valued at around £24 million.

As well as celebrating their best ever year for sales in 2022 Bentley also brought together its historic collection of some 40 cars – many they already owned and others more recently acquired – into a mobile ‘museum’.

I say mobile because the aim is for every single car in the collection to be on the road to be used for promotional or corporate events… and they are even threatening to let motoring hacks like yours truly get behind some very historic steering wheels.

Bentley’s Director of Communications Wayne Bruce explained that many of the cars were just stashed away in corners of old factory buildings with some, sadly, rotting away.

He said: “We decided to rescue those worth saving and also to try and assemble one of every significant model we have produced going back to the 1920s.

“Some we had more that one of and so the duplicates were sold to fund the renovation or acquisition of others and we are nearly there now – just a couple more to find and the line-up will be complete.

“We don’t want them to be just museum exhibits but functioning vehicles to be used and enjoyed so every single one will be started up and run at

least once a month – perhaps even loaned out to the motoring press on occasions.”

The unveiling of their historic collection comes at the same time as Bentley reported its best ever year for sales (despite the world’s current economic woes) with over 15,000 cars delivered to customer’s worldwide in 2022. The USA and China are still their biggest markets but ten per cent of Bentleys are now sold here in the UK.

And with prices from £130,000 up to £2 million for some special order limited production models their order books are bulging, however, if you are interested in one of the limited edition £2m specials then forget it as all are already sold.

Also on display are peeks into the future like the latest EXP 100 GT concept car (see picture) boasting sports car style ‘scissor’ doors, a space age interior and, of course, electric power.

And the factory itself is evolving and growing already boasting a huge covered car park with solar power panel clad roofing and rainwater capture systems helping grow Bentley’s green credentials.

A tour of the factory showed how its hundreds of workers produce the very best in car craftsmanship with almost everything that goes into one of these luxury vehicles being created on site from sumptuous wood and leather interiors to bespoke colour schemes and a dizzying choice of options – no two cars leave the workshop exactly the same.

Factory tours and visits to the historic car collection are available to groups of visitors as well as prospective owners –for more information see www.bentleymotors.com

For all the latest car tests see the motoring section of our website at www.50plusmagazine.co.uk/motors/

The EXP 100 GT electric concept car.

Only the second Bentley ever made is now worth many millions of pounds.

Are your dentures holding you back?

A smile is one of the most basic, biologically uniform expressions of all humans. Smiling is not just a universal means of communicating, it’s also a frequent one. More than 30% of us smile more than 20 times a day and less than 14% of us smile less than 5 times a day.

Smiling has a host of benefits which include:

Mood Boosting - Psychologists have found that even if you’re in a bad mood smiling can lift your spirits. Boost your immunity - smiling makes your body more relaxed and contributes to a good health and stronger immunity.

Relieves Stress - Smiling releases endorphins which reduce stress and change your mood. Even forcing a smile has the same effect.

Lowering blood pressure - Reducing stress and smiling can also help lower blood pressure.

Smiles are infectious - Not only do others smile when we smile but studies also suggest we appear more attractive to others when we smile.

What if you don’t like your smile, do you suffer from loose poorly fitted or broken dentures? We have been helping denture wearers to get beautiful smiles.

CONSTRUCTING A GOOD SET OF DENTURES

Constructing a functional and aesthetically pleasing set of dentures is the most difficult task in dentistry. We are not only replacing lost teeth, but also lost tissue matter and bone. In other words, we have to re-create your facial features as they were before the loss of your natural teeth.

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

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

DENTURES NEED REGULAR SERVICING

Dentures are in constant use almost 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are also in a pretty hostile environment in the mouth,

being attacked by strong acid, bacteria, hot, cold and spicy food. Denture material absorbs liquids and food odour.

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

Loose dentures will increase damage to the gums and bone structure, and increase the risk of breakage.

Have your dentures inspected by a Clinical Dental Technician at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.

NORtHErN CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

macclesfield 2023

Saturday 18 February | Baroque meets Tango

Saturday 11 March | Stabat Mater Dolorosa

Saturday 1 April | Winds Unleashed

Saturday 6 May | Bach and his Legacy