ABC NORTH - December 2018

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NORTH EDITION

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YOUR LOCAL MAGAZINE

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YEARS

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ABC

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8 - 2018

DECEMBER 2018 ISSUE 61

CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP Gift inspiration from local independent businesses

LOCAL FESTIVE EVENTS

The best Christmas events for all the family

Tasty menus to help you celebrate the season

MORPETH

BEDLINGTON

CRAMLINGTON 1

OFFICES & RETAIL UNITS TO LET: 07714 398 588

SHORT TERM LETS From

week £60 pel utr ilit ies

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CURRENT TENANTS INCLUDE:

The Dress Doctor

Repairs, Alterations and Bespoke Dress Making - Tel. 07592 703817

Inkeyez

Kai Preston Tattoo Artist - Tel. 07884 341025

Callie Griffiths School of Dance

Teenies to adults; Hip Hop, Commercial, House, Poppin & Contemporary - Tel. 07534 789639

DANCE STUDIOS FOR HIRE FOR ANY ACTIVITY From

£15

per hour

As used by Faye & Giovanni from Strictly Come Dancing 2018

STARTERS

CHRISTMAS

Homemade Winter Vegetable Soup served with warmed crusty bread and butter.

at The Cherry Tree

Button Mushrooms in a creamy parmesan sauce served with crusty bread.

FAYRE MENU

Smoked Salmon and King Prawn Mousse.

Honey-coated Chicken Wings served with a pickled slaw.

MAINS ROAST TURKEY with an Apricot and Cranberry Stuffing.

Available 1st – 22nd December

Honey-Glazed Roast Gammon with a parsley sauce.

Pan-seared Cod Loin with sautéed new potatoes, seasonal vegetables and a dill cream sauce.

Homemade Mediterranean Vegetable Lasagne.

DESSERTS Traditional Christmas Pudding served with Brandy Sauce.

Rich Chocolate Yule Log served with Cointreau Cream.

Mixed Berry Cheesecake.

A non-refundable deposit of £5 per head is required at the time of booking.

2 Courses - £12.95 3 Courses - £16.95

The Cherry Tree Bar & Grill Riversdale Avenue, Stakeford, NE62 5JZ

THE CHERRY TREE 4

To book call 01670 853380 Cherry Tree Bar & Grill

WELCOME TO ABC

Leading Nursery Brands at Everyday

Welcome to ABC North your bi-monthly local magazine. ABC North is distributed free of charge to thousands of homes and is available in over 200 outlets such as Cafés, Dentists, Hairdressers, Health Clubs, Community Centres. You can also read it online by following the link at www.yourabc.co.uk

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Gents Haircuts...............£8 Kids Haircuts.................£7 OAP Haircuts.................£6 Beard Trim....................£3

22 GLEBE ROAD | BEDLINGTON | NE22 6JT FREE PARKING OUTSIDE

LOYALTY CARDS AVAILABLE

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 9.15am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 2pm | Tuesday & Sunday CLOSED 5

WHAT’S ON

A SELECTION OF EVENTS TAKING PLACE IN THE LOCAL AREA LAST WEEK OF NOVEMBER FOR 3 WEEKS

CHRISTMAS DONKEYS AT PLANTSPLUS GARDEN CENTRE

Berwick Hill Road, Seaton Burn, NE13 6BU Raising money for the Borders Donkey Sanctuary, two Christmas Donkeys will be visiting Animal Corner bringing some extra festive cheer to the garden centre! The charity provides re-homing for donkeys and mules from The North-East of England and Scotland as a result of rescue from cruelty or neglect, or because the current owners could no longer care for them. Free, donations welcome.

Open daily Mon-Sat: 9-6pm, Sun: 10-4.30pm www.plantsplusgardencentre.co.uk

27TH NOVEMBER - 5TH JANUARY

THE THREE BEARS AT CHRISTMAS

Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RH Deep in the snowy forest, Mammy, Daddy and Baby Bear are preparing for winter. Each day the three bears head off into the woods to collect interesting things they can re-use for their house. As Christmas arrives, their cosy home is turned upside down by a colourful whirlwind that threatens to knock over their Christmas tree, eat their Christmas puddings and fall asleep in their beds – it’s Goldilocks! Join them for a Christmas adventure into the woods with original live music, puppetry and a tale you thought you knew… from the makers of The Owl and The Pussycat, Kitchen Zoo. Recommended age: under 5s Tel: 0191 230 5151

6

1ST – SUN 2ND DECEMBER

WINTER MARKET

Woodhorn Museum, Ashington, NE63 9YF 10am - 4pm Enjoy shopping for gorgeous Christmas gifts and special treats at Woodhorn’s Winter Market held inside the historic Workshop Galleries. Discover beautiful crafts, delicious local produce and gifts to delight your friends and family from some of the region’s best makers and crafters.

T: 01670 624455

9 DECEMBER TH

HEART OF THE HIRST CHRISTMAS MARKET

Hirst Flower Park, Ashington, 11am - 4pm The Market will take place in Hirst Park and will include market stalls, buffet and tombola.

Father Christmas will also find time to visit as part of his busy Christmas schedule and plans to be at Hirst Park from 12noon. There will be opportunity to have a photograph with Father Christmas.

For more information on the event at Heart of the Hirst Group find them on Facebook or call: 01670 457 751

6TH -22ND DECEMBER

ENCHANTED BELSAY

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Belsay, Nr. Morpeth, Northumberland, NE20 0DX Make the most of winter evenings this December with an enchanting experience of light, colour and sound as Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens is transformed into an illuminated world. Follow the charming trail to discover their garden in a new light. Join in the atmosphere of the

SAT 8TH – MON 24TH DECEMBER

FESTIVE TALES WITH FATHER CHRISTMAS Woodhorn Museum, Ashington, NE63 9YF

Meet Father Christmas and find out what you should be leaving for him and the Reindeer on Christmas Eve. Or perhaps, enjoy some seasonal stories featuring classics like ‘The Snowman’ and ‘The Polar Express’. There will be lots of fun opportunities to get on Santa’s good side at Woodhorn this winter and every child will leave the experience with a lovely seasonal gift. £6.50 per child and free to adults, includes: A 30-minute session with Father Christmas including seasonal stories, An all important photo opportunity and a seasonal gift. Various times, check website. Booking essential.

Tel: 01670 624455 www.museumsnorthumberland.org.uk/woodhorn-museum/event/festivetales-with-father-christmas

All details correct at time of going to press.

Please check before attending.

Stable Yard near the hall for mulled wine and marshmallows, enjoy a fairground ride and browse for Christmas gifts in their shop.

Grab the winter woollies, your family and friends, and revel in the most enchanting event of the year.

Remember to book early to avoid missing out.

A free shuttle bus service from Ponteland town will be in place for this event.

Tel: 0370 333 1181 www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ whats-on/enchanted-belsay-6-9-18/

7TH - 13TH DECEMBER

ENCHANTED ENTERTAINMENT PRESENT: CINDERELLA

Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4AG Join the festive fun with the lovable Buttons (played by Charlie Richmond), the handsome Prince Charming, the wicked Ugly Sisters, the magical Fairy Godmother and of course, the beautiful Cinderella and make it a it a Christmas to remember! From the same team behind Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Tyne Theatre & Opera House and Enchanted Entertainment bring the world's best known and most loved pantomime to life.

Tel: 0844 249 1000 tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk

14TH DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS PARTY WITH ABBANOW!

East Bedlington Community Centre, 16 & 17 Station Street, East Bedlington, NE22 7JN Christmas Party Night with the UK’s Premier ABBA Tribute Band ABBANow! Putting on a whole show and performing all of ABBAs top hits, it’s going to be a brilliant night jam packed with dancing and singling along.It’s not compulsory to wear flares and platforms, but we encourage it!

Tickets are £5 and include a FREE drink. Doors open at 7pm.

Tel: 01670 828808

8TH - 16TH DECEMBER

PUSS IN BOOTS

Phoenix Theatre, 37a Beaconsfield Street, Blyth, NE24 2DS The Phoenix Theatre proudly present its 41st Pantomime. Following

on from the sell-out success of Cinderella in 2017 we bring to you another family favourite guaranteed to be a hit with all the family - Puss in Boots!

A cobbler, some magic boots and a talking cat! The perfect recipe for a magical pantomime adventure! Can Puss save the day? Will jack and Puss defeat the evil ogre and his horrible henchman?

Join us on a fun filled quest with all your favourite pantomime characters and let’s make the magic happen! www.thephoenixtheatre.org.uk

8TH - 9TH DECEMBER

NORTH SHIELDS VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS MARKET

Northumberland Square, North Shields, NE30 1QU With over 100 stalls selling all manner of seasonal gifts and crafts, the North Shields Victorian Christmas Market remains one of the most popular events in the North of England. There are fairground rides for children, some great street food and traditional bandstand entertainment.

The event runs between 10am and 5pm on Saturday and 10am and 4pm on the Sunday. www.visitnorthtyneside.com/events/ event/29/

1st, 2nd 8th, 9th, 15th, 16th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd & 24th December

SANTA’S MAGICAL GROTTO

Manor Walks Shopping Centre, Cramlington Taking time out of their busy festive schedule, Santa and his little helpers will be meeting and greeting children at Manor Walks this festive season to find out what’s at the top of their list this Christmas - and asking their parents if they’ve been a good boy or girl!

There will also be an autism friendly grotto session as part of Manor Walks monthly Autism Hour on 2nd December from 10am for families and children living with autism. Santa’s elves will also be collecting donations for Manor Walks’ charity partner, Seaton Delaval Arts Centre. www.manorwalks.co.uk/news-events/events/santas-grotto/ 7

88

WHAT’S ON 8TH DECEMBER

MESSY CHRISTMAS

11am - 1pm Morpeth Methodist Church, 1 Howard Rd, Morpeth NE61 1HU Families are invited to our Messy Church at Christmas event. Messy Christmas will take place on the morning of Saturday 8th December from 11am until 1pm.

There’ll be a chance to make Christmas crafts and a Christingle, before ending with a short Christingle service and party lunch.

Suitable for ages 3-9 yrs ( older and younger friends and siblings most welcome) Free event. www.morpethmeth.org

14TH DECEMBER

NORTHUMBERLAND PRIDE CHARITY CHRISTMAS CONCERT St James Church, Newgate Street,

Morpeth A mix of musicians and choirs performing well known Christmas songs, popular songs, and originals.

Join Amble Harbour Lights Choir, Treble in Mind, Jonny D (Saxophone) and Morpeth’s very own Matt Dunbar (Matt Dunbar) for what promises to be an amazing night.

Included in the admission price

will be a complimentary Christmas Cocktail (non-alcoholic available) and Mince Pie. Suitable for all ages, and a fantastic Christmas themed raffle will take place in the interval.

Tickets will be priced £10 for adults and £6 for children.

Tel: 01670 503326

15TH DECEMBER

REAL REINDEER AT THE ARCADE

10am - 4pm Sanderson Arcade, Morpeth Returning by popular demand - real reindeer to pet and feed - at the Arcade, and a chance to meet Mr & Mrs Claus from 12noon.

Plus some other Christmassy additions including Carol Singing, Mince Pies and Mulled Wine www.sandersonarcade.co.uk

EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY IN DECEMBER - 10AM - 5PM

WHITEHOUSE FARM SANTA EXPERIENCE

Whitehouse Farm Centre, North Whitehouse Farm, Morpeth, NE61 6AW Join the team at the farm this Festive Season to make some lasting memories with your family, the Santa Experience is their Premium Christmas Event and will add a touch of Magic to Christmas 2018.

Brand New for 2018 The Santa Experience is jam packed with Festive Fun for the whole family to enjoy. Your Santa Experience ticket includes a half hour time-slot booking to see Santa. Meet one of Santa’s Elf at the check in desk and join in with some festive craft activities including making decorations for your Christmas tree, Christmas cards, make your own reindeer food and much more all while you wait for your visit with the man himself. Browse their pop up Elf Mini Market and enjoy a special one to one meeting with Santa in his Grotto. The elves will contact you prior to Christmas to gather special details about the children. Ticket prices vary, starting from £17. Call or visit website for more information and prices.

Tel: 01670 789998 www.whitehousefarmcentre.co.uk

8

21ST DECEMBER

SUPERSONIC 70’s CHRISTMAS CRACKER SHOW

Phoenix Theatre, 37a Beaconsfield Street, Blyth, NE24 2DS It’s CHRISTMAAAAS…!!” So dust off your Spacehoppers and Lava Lamps, its time for Europe’s premier 70s party!

David Cassidy to 10cc, Bay City Rollers to Donna Summer, Donny Osmond to Sweet and Boney M to Suzi Quatro, all the classic pop hits of that superlicious decade are celebrated in authentic style.

Including a seasonal bonus of all those classic 70s Christmas tunes to get you in the mood for the yuletide season! www.thephoenixtheatre.org.uk

31ST DECEMBER

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY WITH KINGS OF RHYTHM East Bedlington Community Centre, 16 & 17 Station Street, East Bedlington, NE22 7JN Join us to see in the New Year! We have musical entertainment from the brilliant Kings of Rhythm.

This is a family event, so children are welcome, but anyone under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult at all times, and children under the age of 14 are not permitted in the bar area after 9pm.

Doors open at 7pm, and we will be having a countdown at midnight to see in 2019!

Get your gladrags on and come join the fun! Each ticket includes one FREE drink

Afternoon Tea £12*

Oct

Festive gifts, food hampers & Christmas decorations arrive.

End Nov

Fresh poinsettia, wreaths, swags & Christmas trees. Visit our Christmas Donkeys!

Dec

Pre-book now for our December Christmas Restaurant menu. Groups & parties welcome.

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LOCAL NEWS

CHOPPINGTON WELFARE CENTRE WELCOMES A BRAND NEW PILATES INSTRUCTOR Gill Glass, Pilates Instructor is now offering Pilates sessions at Choppington Social Welfare Centre. Here she explains her background and passion for Pilates...

My journey into the world of Pilates began after back surgery. I lost all confidence in my body, I was frightened to bend, almost move, lift anything, in fact, do anything that might cause me further harm, I lived in constant fear and pain of further injury or surgery. Many of you might be at this stage or have experienced similar feelings?

I began by attending a local Pilates session, not really knowing what it was all about, but eager to try anything.

After a few sessions I began to walk taller and grow in the knowledge of what my body was actually capable of. My confidence grew and I became stronger, more flexible, and my spine was able to move with ease again, without pain.

My passion for Pilates grew so much that, in 2010, I decided to qualify as a Pilates instructor. My intention was to help and assist other people.

I have since qualified in, Low Back Pain Management, Pre and Post Natal Pilates, GP Referral to Exercise, Sports Massage, Nutrition and Scoliosis.

So, what is Pilates? Pilates is the art of controlled movements of the body, which greatly improves flexibility, builds strength in the muscles of the spine and deep core

muscles, which consist of the muscles of the abdomen, low, hips and glutes. Pilates allows for exercises to be modified, so client can build up strength, gradually, safely and efficiently. Intensity can be increased over time.

The important thing to remember is that Pilates is for anyone! At my classes clients will learn correct, balanced posture, to walk taller and more efficiently, placing less pressure on major joints. Other benefits they will feel are: They will build a strong more flexible body, sleep can be enhanced, stress can be reduced and back pain can be reduced and, in many cases, eradicated.

Pilates can also give you increased body awareness which rewards our bodies, with conscious effective breathing and movement, to help reduce stress and build up your immune system.

I am extremely passionate and enthusiastic about my Pilates and hopefully that shines through when I teach, I am perpetually learning to create the best class possible.

Have I convinced you to give it a try? Then why don’t you join me on Wednesday Evenings, 6pm to 7pm at The Choppington Social Welfare Centre, Colliery Road, Choppington, £5.00 per session

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Well, why not book a free, no obligation consultation with our Senior Audiologist Sarah Gregg? Whether in our state-of-the-art consulting rooms in Morpeth, or in the comfort of your own home, House of Hearing is Morpeth’s premier hearing healthcare provider.

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BRANCHES IN EDINBURGH, GALASHIELS, ST ANDREWS, PERTH & MORPETH Find your nearest at www.houseofhearing.co.uk 11

LOCAL NEWS

CHRISTMAS MUSIC FOR EVERYONE

E

veryone enjoys listening to and usually joining in with Christmas music and Saturday 15th December will give an opportunity for this.

Ashington & District Male Voice Choir is holding its annual Christmas Concert in St. Cuthbert’s Church Bedlington at 7.00pm and will feature a host of festive favourites with many opportunities for the audience to join in. Local soprano Deborah Barry will be the choir’s special guest and will bring her wealth of experience to this traditional event. Tickets at £7 are available from choir members, St Cuthbert’s Church, Al’s Superstore Station Road Ashington or at the door. The choir’s website, www.ashingtonmalevoicechoir.org gives details of all the activities and contacts.

The choir has worked hard throughout the autumn to ensure that only the best will be on offer. A few local charity or community concerts were augmented with the opportunity to join Newbiggin’s brass band in a concert and celebration of the 1918 Armistice on 10th November in Newbiggin Sports & Community Centre, a truly moving occasion. Earlier in the autumn the choir joined the congregation of St Cuthbert’s Bedlington in a similar celebration to mark and remembered the return of the men

from the battle lines, and of course those that weren’t so lucky.

The gentlemen of the choir are proud of its commitment to the community and are happy that concerts provide enjoyment along with the opportunity to raise money for either local needs or charity. Many £1000s of pounds raised in recent years have helped organisations and charities which the gents are pleased to have helped make possible. The choir also brings a group of men together socially with the resulting friendships making rehearsals and concerts enjoyable whilst being serious to ensure perfection in performance. New members are always welcome, no auditions, no requirement to read music, just a wish and willingness to give it a try. Gentlemen of all ages are always welcome.

Ashington & District Male Voice Choir Choir & Carols at St Cuthbert's

Christmas Concert With Guest Deborah Barry Saturday 15th December 7pm St Cuthbert’s Church Bedlington NE22 5EL Tickets £7 available from ADMVC St Cuthbert’s Church Al’s Superstore Ashington Or pay on the door Refreshments and Grand Christmas Raffle

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• Fires & Fireplaces • Fire Surrounds • Gas Fires • Gas Stoves • Electric Fires • Multifuel Stoves • Heating Packages Dimplex Opti-Myst

COME HOME TO A LIVING FIRE

Display & Demonstrate Approved Showroom

7 Market Place, Bedlington, Northumberland, NE22 5TN

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm Saturday 10am - 3pm

Tel: 01670 632717 Sunday Closed

Chiropodist / Podiatrist CAROLINE JACKSON MBCPA, MSSCH, HCPC REGISTERED & ASSOCIATES BSC(HONS), MCHS All aspects of chiropody/podiatry covered including: • Cutting toenails • Removing corns and calluses • Ingrown toenails • Verrucas • Diabetic foot care • Gait analysis • Orthotics/insoles

HOME VISIT SERVICE

AVAILABLE

TO BOOK A HOME VISIT CALL

01670 355960 or 07570 469 374

OR BOOK AN APPOINTMENT AT OUR SURGERIES: Crescent Pharmacy 10 Alexander Road, Ashington NE63 9LU Tel: (01670) 858959

Newline Pharmacy Dereham terrace, Stakeford NE62 5UR Tel: (01670) 520222

Email: cj_associates@outlook.com

A LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS SINCE 1970

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

GET THAT FESTIVE FEELING AT PLANTSPLUS GARDEN CENTRE

P

lantsplus Garden Centre welcome you to their festive period! They can still help you to fill your gardens with colour all through the winter with their homegrown bedding packs, patio planters and hanging baskets, but you can’t ignore the fact that their Christmas Department has made an appearance for the second year.

Fresh wreaths, swags and poinsettia arrive at the end of November. They’ll also have fresh Christmas Trees, including their popular no-drop Nordmann Firs.

We’re bringing even more Christmas spirit this year by welcoming two donkeys to Animal Corner with all donations going to the Scottish Borders Donkey Sanctuary.

Our new Restaurant’s Winter menu will be released

14

later this month (think fresh, warming, homely food for those colder days), when you’ll also be able to view our pre-book Christmas menu. Available from 1st – 24th December, we’re offering a choice of 1, 2 or 3 festive courses starting from £11.95. We welcome all group sizes, just ask a member of staff at our tills for more information or visit our website.

If you haven’t already, why not sign up for our FREE reward card? You’ll receive 5% back from your purchases every 2 months to spend in store, as well as receiving a free tea or filter coffee voucher that you can use in the restaurant.

To celebrate the Restaurant’s opening, Plantsplus Garden Centre are giving ABC readers an exclusive introductory offer of Afternoon Tea for £10 (regular price £12). A selection of freshly made sweet treats and savoury bites served with tea or coffee. Prebooking required, Monday-Friday between 12-4pm.

DELIGHTFUL DONKEYS: Visit Animal Corner in November with all donations going to the Scottish Borders Donkey Sanctuary.

GIFTS GALORE: Lots of festive gifts to choose from at PlantsPlus this winter

“

The new restaurant’s Winter menu will be released later this month – think fresh, warming, homely food for those colder days

Just take this page in and return to a member of staff at the tills upon payment to claim your offer.

Finally, if you’re struggling to find a present for a loved one this year, why not purchase a gift voucher – available at the tills.

PlantPlus Garden Centre, Berwick Hill Road, Seaton Burn, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE13 6BU www.plantsplusgardencentre.co.uk For all enquires, please phone 01661 824631 or email shop@plantsplusgardencentre.co.uk

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER To celebrate the restaurant opening , Plantsplus Garden Centre are givin g ABC readers an exclusive offer:

AFTERNOON TEA ONLY £10 Usual price £12

A selection of freshly made sweet treats and savoury bites served with tea or coff ee.

Pre-booking required, Monday-Fr iday between 124pm. Just bring this page in and return to a member of staff at the tills upon payment to claim your offer.

8

Jenn, Corrie, Chlo

e, Eve, Megan

Wishing ell everyone w and for 2019 rward we look fo u o to seeing y the all during g forthcomin year.

8 sublime

8 8

Chloe and Team Sublime celebrating 6 successful years in business, would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our loyal Clients for their continued support during 2018 especially for their contributions towards our Macmillan Coffee Morning. It is very much appreciated.

8

Chloe said "So lucky to have the best group of girls and the nicest Clients."

HAIRDRESSING Tel: 01670 840 427

192 HAWTHORN ROAD, ASHINGTON, NE63 9AU 16

Michael Metcalf Carpets “Because we do it better”

For the finest bespoke service quality carpets and flooring

12

MONTHS INTEREST FREE CREDIT

ON ALL FLOORING & CARPETS

69 Bridge Street, Morpeth, NE61 1PQ Tel: 01670 513 868

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LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

GET BACK TO WHAT YOU ENJOY IF BACK PAIN, SPORTS INJURIES OR OTHER MUSCULOSKELETAL PROBLEMS ARE PREVENTING YOU FROM DOING WHAT YOU ENJOY THEN MSK HEALTHCARE & PERFORMANCE CLINIC, BASED IN GUIDEPOST CAN HELP

M

SK Healthcare & Performance Clinic, based in Guidepost, specialises in the treatment of patients who have musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions – problems with muscles, bones, joints and sport injuries.

There are over 200 MSK conditions, and 1 in 4 adults, which is around 10 million, are affected in some way. This has an enormous impact on the quality of life of millions of people in the UK, with 10.8 million work days lost as a consequence of musculoskeletal conditions Many MSK conditions can be difficult to treat as there could be many aspects to the condition. At MSK Healthcare they have brought together a group of MSK clinicians, podiatrists, chiropractors, physiotherapy, sport therapists and strength coaches under one roof to provide a multi-disciplined approach to the treatment of MSK conditions So, what do they treat? From head to the toe they approach each patients condition differently. Whether you’re having footcare problems and simply need to see a registered podiatrist, or perhaps you’re a runner having problems with your feet whilst running and need a more in-depth assessment by their experienced biomechanical podiatrist they can help.

They can treat various MSK conditions and, whilst they do offer specialist sports related treatments, they also cater for anyone and any type of MSK condition.

Perhaps you are suffering from back pain, shoulder discomfort, neck problems or headaches their resident chiropractor and physiotherapist can work with you to help to resolve any issues to ease the pain.

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Sometimes tight muscles may just require a deep tissue massage to release the tension their sport therapists are on hand to help.

Research continues to show that combining physical therapy with bespoke exercise / rehab programs have a far better outcome than just treatment alone. MSK Heathcare & Performance Clinic have their own onsite gym, meaning they can deal with more complex cases, be that sports injuries that need precise rehabilitation approach, or perhaps they need to establish why a runner keeps getting injured. They can even undertake video

“

MSK Clinic can treat any musculoskeletal condition and, whilst they do offer specialist sports related treatments, they also cater for anyone and any type of musculoskeletal condition.

running analysing to see what might be the case and work from there.

The clinic also arranges professional lectures by local MSK Consultants / Surgeons if you’re an Allied Healthcare professional. Visit the website for up-coming lectures that you may wish to attend.

Whatever your MSK condition, the dedicated MSK team can help by using the latest available research and clinical experience to achieve the most important thing your goal and happiness.

Check www.mskhealthcare.co.uk for more details or call 01670 813939.

MSK Guidepost, 22 Front Street, Guidepost, NE62 5LT

Merry Christmas WISHING ALL OUR CUSTOMERS PAST & PRESENT

FOR ALL YOUR MUSCULAR-SKELETAL NEEDS

whether it’s sore feet, painful knees when running, chronic back pain, sports injury, headaches or shoulder problems. Our MSK practitioners can help.

At MSK-Healthcare our Physiotherapists, Chiropractors, Sports Therapists, Podiatrists and Sport Massage Therapists are on hand to help.

CALL TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

01670 813 939 Email: info@mskhealthcare.co.uk

www.mskhealthcare.co.uk

22 FRONT STREET, GUIDEPOST, NE62 5LT

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WHAT’S ON

OH NO THEY DIDN’T! CHECK OUT THE SPECTACULAR PANTOMIMES ON THIS YEAR...

1ST DECEMBER – 5TH JANUARY

30TH NOVEMBER– 8TH DECEMBER

8TH - 16TH DECEMBER

PETER PAN

JACK&THEBEANSTALK

PUSS IN BOOTS

Blue Genie returns this Christmas with the highflying adventure, Peter Pan. Starring Antony Costa (from the renowned band Blue) as Captain Hook, Ben Hanson, from children’s cult show Tracey Beaker, as Starkey and, of course, PLAYHOUSE favourite Steve Walls returns for his 9th year along with his bench to play the hilarious Smee.

This action-packed adventure will be full of special effects and have a host of popular songs.

Suitable for all ages, jump aboard our ship: this is a Christmas treat you won’t want to miss.

Be sure to ‘Hook’ your tickets now, the ‘Croc is ticking’!

The hero Jack, his mother Dame Trott and his brother Simon haven’t a bean to their name! Their friendly cow Daisy has gone dry and worse still the village is being destroyed by the evil giant Blunderbore. Join them for a magical adventure to see if Jack can save the day, defeat the giant and win the princess’s heart in this rags to riches tale.

Seaton Delaval Pantomime Society present the perfect panto for the whole family to enjoy, packed full of all of the usual show-stopping songs, dazzling dance routines and hilarious knockabout comedy with bags of audience participation and fun.

Following on from the sell-out success of Cinderella in 2017, the Phoenix Theatre bring to you their 41st pantomime, another family favourite guaranteed to be a hit with all the family - Puss in Boots!

A cobbler, some magic boots and a talking cat! The perfect recipe for a magical pantomime adventure!

Can Puss save the day? Will jack and Puss defeat the evil ogre and his horrible henchman?

Join them on a fun filled quest with all your favourite pantomime characters and let’s make the magic happen!

WHITLEY BAY PLAYHOUSE

Check website for prices Box Office: 0844 248 1588 www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk

SEATON DELAVAL ARTS CENTRE

Prices: Adults £10.00, Children £9.00, Family £34.00 Box Office: 0191 237 5460 seatondelavalartscentre.com

PHOENIX THEATRE, BLYTH

Prices: £13.50 and £12.50 Box Office: 01670 367228 www.thephoenixtheatre.org.uk

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

20

The Beauty Spot Where Your ‘Me Time’ Is Valued

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01670 827 000

21

CONTINUED...

magical pantomime Aladdin!

Prices: Adults £8.00 Children & Seniors £6.50 Box Office: 0191 292 9292 www.tynemouth-priory-theatre.com

9TH DECEMBER

CINDERELLA

CHOPPINGTON WELFARE CENTRE

4TH – 13TH JANUARY

ALADDIN

TYNEMOUTH PRIORY THEATRE

Packed with all of the traditional pantomime ingredients audiences expect, ALADDIN features laugh out loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses. Follow Aladdin, his brother Wishee Washee and of course his mother Widow Twankey, on a spectacular adventure. Expect flying carpets, a wishgranting genie, an evil sorcerer and a lamp-full of laughs, so book your magic carpet ride to old Peking to the 22

Poor Cinderella has to run around after her two very ugly sisters. Life’s a bit miserable, even though her friend Buttons tries to cheer her up = but everything changes one night when the fairy sends Cinderella to the Grand Ball. As the clock strikes midnight and romance is in the air, someone loses a glass slipper – but who is it?

Join the Prince as he sets out to find the stunning mysterious girl who bewitched him! With beautiful sets and costumes, enchanting music and lots of laughter, Choppington Welfare is the perfect venue to enjoy the most famous panto of them all!

Prices: call the number below for details.

Box Office: 01670 822028 www.choppington.org

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

GUM DISEASE t! c A g n i c n a l a AB

By Joanne Duggan, Principal Dental Surgeon at Bedlingtonshire Dental Practice

I

have written an article about gum disease previously, but I wanted to revisit this topic as it is the most common way adults lose their teeth. As a dental team we all have a commitment to continue our education, attending dental courses and lectures during the year as we strive to improve the dental care we provide to our patients. After attending a course delivered by a periodontal specialist, (specialises in gum disease), I wanted to share some interesting information about gum disease.

So read on for a little bit of revision first about gum disease or periodontal disease...

www.bedlingtonshiredental.co.uk

23

WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?

Gum disease is a destructive process caused by harmful bacteria in the plaque that forms on our teeth. The toxins produced by the bacteria can cause inflammation of the gums that can lead to loosening of the gums and teeth. Once the gum is loose it is easier for this harmful plaque to get under the surface of the gum and therefore it is difficult for you to brush it away at home. The harmful toxins produced by the bacteria destroys the bone that holds the tooth in place in the jaw. This can lead to loosening of teeth, pain, abscesses, inability to eat and eventually tooth loss!

Sounds scary doesn’t it, but unfortunately it is quite common.

You now know that gum disease is destructive and is caused by the harmful bacteria in plaque, however what was really of interest at this course was the impact of how our body responds and defends against the harmful bacteria and includes our inflammation and immune systems. Whether we develop gum disease really depends on lots of other factors as well.

QUIT: Being a non-smoker is one of the best ways to improve your gum health

HARMFUL PLAQUE BACTERIA V HOST RESPONSE!

What does the host response actually mean?

The host response, or how well our bodies respond to harmful bacteria, is our defence mechanism and involves our inflammation and autoimmune response. How well our bodies defend against toxic bacteria around our gums can determine whether we develop gum disease.

This is significant and includes factors such as:

Genetics - There is a definite link between gum disease and our genes. If anyone in your family has gum disease then you too may be more at risk of having gum problems. It really is hard to fight your genes and if you have a strong family genetic predisposition to gum disease then it will be more difficult to manage and the treatment you receive may be less effective.

Smoking - The most important

known risk factor for gum disease is cigarette smoking. There is a very definite link between smoking and gum disease. Studies and research has proved that smokers do loose more teeth due to gum disease

Diabetics are 3 times more likely to have gum disease

than non- smokers. Smoking has a profound impact on the progression of the disease, the response to treatment and the likelihood of relapse. Smoking impairs how well the body deals with harmful plaque bacteria and also reduces the success of any treatment you may receive for gum disease. Being a non-smoker is therefore one of the best ways to improve your gum health.

Smokers have more hard calculus and plaque build up on their teeth. Smoking reduces the blood supply to the gums, meaning infected gums do not heal as well. A reduced blood supply is not healthy and could hide the fact you have gum disease as your gums may not bleed. This is why it is important to visit your dentist regularly as at every check up they will screen for the presence of gum disease.

"Even smoking 1-4 cigarettes a day can increase your risk of developing gum disease by almost 50%.š"

Diabetes - Diabetics are 3 times

more likely to have gum disease, particularly if the diabetes is poorly controlled. Diabetics are generally not as good at wound healing. In fact, the link between gum disease and diabetes is so strong that the risk works both ways. What do I mean by this? Well, if you have diabetes you are at risk of having gum disease, but also if you have gum disease you have an increased risk of being diabetic.

24 24

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LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Whether we develop gum disease appears to be a balancing act of how much harmful bacteria there is on our teeth and gums versus how our body defends and protects us against it.

Stress - If we are stressed, it can affect our general health but also the health of our gums. When we under intense or prolonged periods of stress our bodies defence mechanism does not work as effectively. Stress therefore suppresses our immune system, tipping the balance in favour of the harmful bacteria. Also if you are stressed you may not be looking after yourself as well, for example not brushing your teeth before bed or using interdental brushes.

Nutrition - Reducing your carbohydrate and processed food intake and adopting a healthy diet including fruit and vegetables helps to improve your host response and maintain healthy gums.

Life style factors - such as

obesity, sleep deprivation, lack of exercise, depression can all reduce how well our bodies defence mechanism works.

Hormones - Hormonal changes

are known to affect the gums, especially in pregnancy as even a small amount of plaque can cause a lot of inflammation and bleeding of the gums. With good plaque removal, after the baby is born and hormone levels have returned to normal your gum health should also improve.

All of these factors have an impact on how well the body fights the toxic bacteria that causes inflammation and gum disease.

Whether we develop gum disease appears to be a balancing act of how much harmful bacteria there is on our teeth and gums versus how our body defends and protects us against it.

It is logical then that the best thing anyone can do to prevent gum disease is to have beautifully clean teeth: if there is no plaque and bacteria, there cannot be any gum disease! It is obviously very difficult to change our host response to bacteria, therefore good oral hygiene is the cornerstone of gum treatment combined with help, advice and support to manage the other factors listed above, such as smoking cessation advice or referral to your diabetic nurse. To diagnose, prevent and treat gum disease you need to make sure you attend the dentist for regular examinations, advice and treatment.

Treatment provided by a dentist or dental hygienist for gum disease will only be successful if you fully engage in their recommended oral hygiene regime. I'm afraid there is a lot of homework for you to do in between dental appointments; you cannot rely on your 3 monthly

hygiene visits to do all the work for you. Treatment of periodontal disease will not be successful if you don't clean the plaque off your teeth; being really clean means to remove the harmful bacteria which will prevent the disease process progressing. So you must: 1. Brush your teeth twice a day for 2 minutes, especially before bed 2. Clean interdentally every day.

Your dental team will advice you of the best products to use for every area of your mouth. Examples of some of the products are floss, interdental brushes and single tufted brushes.

Bedlingtonshire

Dental Practice

To make an appointment at Bedlingtonshire Dental Practice call 01670 828402 or visit 30 Front Street East, Bedlington, NE22 5AA š Reference: http://www.bsperio.org.uk 25 www.bedlingtonshiredental.co.uk

IF IN DOUBT, GET CHECKED OUT November was Mouth cancer Action month, which aims to raise awareness of the disease in an attempt to get more mouth cancers diagnosed at an early stage. Here’s the lowdown on the risk factors and signs and symptoms

ARE YOU HAVING PROBLEMS WITH YOUR DENTURE OR NEED A• NEW ONE? • ABOUT MOUTH CANCER

Early detection is crucial so Report any red or white know the early warning signs: patches, unusual lumps and Mouth cancer can affect the lips, THEN CAN WE Mouth ulcers which do not heal swellings, or mouth ulcersallthat tongue, cheeks, head andINTRODUCE neck. requirements and keep you informed throughout the within three weeks; have not up able within FORREST, ThereALAN are more than 7,500OUR new CLINICAL stages of making your denture.

Alancleared would be to fulfil Red and white patches in the three weeks. cases diagnosedTECHNICIAN in the UK your wishes by providing you with a functional, naturally DENTAL mouth; exposed the sun,Alan’s each year. looking bespoke denture When tailored to yourto needs.

If youMouth are having problems with your denture it is best to Unusual lumpsmotto or swellings in as a patient beand sure to use cancer is more common is “arrive leave as protective a friend.” sun visit your dentist or40, clinical dental technician who be head or neck. thewill mouth, cream. in those over particularly able to check your mouth is clean and healthy and If anyensure of these are noticed, A good diet, rich in Vitamins A, men.

EXAMPLES OF THE SERVICES your denture fits properly. denturestell need to dentist or doctor your C and E.ALAN CAN OFFER: But it’s now affectingSometimes more immediately. Complete upper and lower Cut down on your smoking and younger and women be adjusted orpeople replaced. dentures drinking. than ever.

If you have no teeth remaining in the upper and/or lower The number of new cases COMMON PROBLEMS THAT DENTURES CAUSE: EARLY DETECTION IS can give you back your confidence with complete jaw Alan of mouth cancerand is on the • Problems speaking eating Fact: dentures: CRUCIAL increase • Mouth ulcers and sores More than 7,500 people will be • beImproving of your speech Mouth cancer can spotted the clarity • Infection (thrush) caused by poor fitting dentures mouth cancer this the • byHelping feel morewith secure about eating in the early stages your you todiagnosed and poor denture cleanliness WHAT CAUSES MOUTH dentist. foods you wantyear in the UK. • Embarrassment from dentures moving Your dentist or •hygienist will Check:facial muscles and sunken Supporting sagging CANCER? Look out you for mouth do do this as part of your dental that can features make appearulcers older which (especially Smoking – tobacco in cigaAt Bedlingtonshire Dental Practice we are very fortunate not heal three weeks, red & check-up. around your mouth, lipswithin and cheeks) rettes / pipes and smokeless to offtobacco. er a denture service provided by AlanIfForrest, a whitefor patches, unusual lumps or mouth cancer• is recognised Removing the need dentureand fixative Clinical Dentalalcohol Technician.

A clinical is chances a swellings. early, the of a cure Drinking to excess – dental technician dentalincreases technician who has extended their training to gain are good. risks by four times.

Partial dentures Act: an additional qualification which allows themMany to bepeople part with mouth Human Papillomavirus visit are yourmissing, dentist toAlan ensure If one or canseveral ofRegularly your teeth can of a Unhealthy dental team as–anot clinician, cerwith go tothe their dentist doctor diet eating working directly you are checked for By signs of mouth restore or your smile with a Partial Denture. replacing your patient to provide make dentures. too late. enough fruit, and vegetables and missing teeth, he cancancer. give you back the look and function It is important to fish. of visit a fullyour set of healthy, natural teeth. (If you have any of your regularly, as natural often asteeth you Sunlight – over-exposure canA CLINICALdentist If in doubt, checked out.

THE ADVANTAGES OF ALAN, DENTAL own must first get be examined by a dentist they recommend lead to cancer in the A lips.

Speak to your or this doctor. to ensure these are healthy.

We candentist arrange for you if TECHNICIAN, MAKING DENTURE FOR YOU more information about mouth you do not have yourFor own dentist).

Alan would be involved in every stage of making a denture HEALTHY BYSo, BEING cancer visit www.mouthcancer.org WHAT BE part in STAY if you are having problems with your denture or for you; SHOULD he would doYOU the clinical the surgery that would like a new one, with over 35 years of experience LOOKING FOR?normally do, howeverMOUTHAWARE your dentist would he would also Reference: www.dentalhealth.org Mouthaware by skill, beingwhy alert and not choose Alan? Contact cancerfor canyou strike the Before Alan Be makeMouth the denture too! provides a unusual in your Bedlingtonshire Dental Practice on lips,he tongue, cheeks, denture, wouldgums, assess your facial featuresto and howchanges the details below. head and neck. you smile talk. He would discuss your mouth. needs and

• • • •

• • • •

• • •

•

•

• • • • • •

• • • •

•

30 Front Street East, Bedlington, NE22 5AA

CALL US NOW 01670 828402 www.bedlingtonshiredental.co.uk 26

Bedlingtonshire

Dental Practice

Kitchen Xchange Ltd MADE TO MEASURE KITCHENS & BEDROOMS DIRECT FROM OUR FACTORY A warm welcome from Kevin & the team

OW LE N

ON

SA

We are a family business who design and build kitchens and bedrooms to meet our customers individual tastes and specifications.

At Kitchen Xchange you will find a large well presented showroom with all you need to create your dream kitchen or bedroom. Visit our showroom or give us a call and you will deal direct with us, no middlemen and no sales targets to hit, this way we find out what you the customers want. Our made to order kitchens and bedrooms are made in our factory, meaning savings we make can be passed directly onto our customers.

Over 30 Years Experience SOLID SURFACE WORKTOP SPECIALISTS SLIDING WARDROBE DOORS REPLACEMENT KITCHEN DOORS REPLACEMENT WORKTOPS

FREE HOME VISITS &

NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION Factory & Showroom, Unit 20, Mayfair House, Redburn Road, Westerhope, Newcastle, NE5 1NB

Tel: 0191 271 1333

www.kitchenxchange.co.uk OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:30 - 4:30PM SATURDAY 9:00 - 12:00PM 27

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Serves 4 15 mins prep 20 mins cooking time

HEALTHY TURKEY SOUP Make the most of your leftovers this year with this hearty, warming recipe.

It will help you get back on track if you’ve had a bit too much to eat and drink on Christmas Day!

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • •

1 tbsp olive oil 1 large onion, halved and sliced into thin strips 1 red pepper, seeded and sliced into thin strips 2 tsp ground coriander ¼ - ½ tsp chilli flakes 3 tbsp basmati rice or long grain rice 1½ l hot turkey or chicken stock 250g 9oz turkeys meat, cut into thin strips (leg meat will have the most flavour) 410g can chickpeas, drained and rinsed a handful of fresh coriander or flatleaf parsley, roughly chopped (optional)

METHOD 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Heat the oil in a large pan, add the onion and fry for 5 minutes or so, stirring every now and then until it starts to soften.

Then add the red pepper, ground coriander, chilli and rice and stir round the pan for about a minute.

Pour in the hot stock, stir in the turkey and chickpeas and season well.

Bring to the boil, cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes, until the vegetables and rice are tender.

Stir in the coriander or parsley and it’s ready.

If your new years resolution is a healthier new you, then Curves Fitness Club can help.

Your local Curves is located at Unit 6H, Admiral Business Park, Cramlington NE23 1WG Tel: 01670 712941 Visit www.curves.eu/uk 28

Warm up your winter

30-minute full body workout Strength Training and cardio One-on-one coaching Designed for women

CURVES CRAMLINGTON

Unit 6H, Admiral Business Park, Cramlington NE23 1WG Tel: 01670 712941 Curves Curves Ashington Cramlington New members only. Terms Conditions apply. *Offer valid on first visit enrolment for a 12-month membership. Monthly fees waived from & first visit enrolment untilany other promotions. . New members Not valid withforany otherdetails. promotions. at International, Inc. Not valid with Contact only.

Curves Ashington further Š 2018Valid Curves participating locations during Š 2018 Curves International, Inc.

29

EATING OUT

FAYRE

Christmas is a time for family and friends to indulge in delicious food and winter tipples.

With this in mind, here are six of the best local venues to help you celebrate the festive season in style.

THE HASTINGS

Seaton Delaval, Whitley Bay NE25 0QH. Tel: 0191 237 6868 www.thehastingsarms.com The Hastings is a community pub steeped in tradition. Built over 175 years ago, it was purpose built as a public house, and has served that function ever since. Current owners Peter and Paul Thompson have run the pub for the last 6 years, and the Hastings has gone from strength to strength during this time.

They have been nominated for, and won, a number of awards, both local and national, and they have an excellent reputation for both their food and their choice of real ales.

They pride themselves on using fresh and where possible locally sourced ingredients throughout their dishes.

A good honest local pub, serving good honest local food is how they describe themselves.

CHRISTMAS FAYRE PRICES 2 courses £12.95, 3 courses £16.95 DATES 1st December – 12th January, Monday to Saturday 30

RIDLEY ARMS

Stannington, Morpeth, NE61 6EL Tel: 01670 789216 sjf.co.uk/our-pubs/the-ridley-arms This rural haven offers rustic yet contemporary food, regularly hosting local produce from Blagdon Estate, and representing excellent quality and value. The Ridley Arms is a favourite with locals and tourists alike and is in a handy location just off the A1.

The chef has decided to give pride of place to traditional dishes, giving them his own personal style. There is an original and delicious angle to every dish with no pretension, just good quality, lovingly prepared and well-presented food. Good old fashioned hospitality at it’s best at this popular pub.

CHRISTMAS FAYRE PRICES 2 courses £22, 3 courses £26 DATES 1st December – 24th December

NORTHUMBERLAND ARMS – FELTON

The Peth, West Thirston, Felton NE65 9EE Tel: 01670 787370 northumberlandarms-felton.co.uk Situated approximately 1 mile from the A1, The Northumberland Arms was built in the 1820’s by Hugh Percy, 3rd Duke of Northumberland as a Coaching Inn. The building has been lovingly restored, and presents the ultimate in chic, eclectic styling, whilst remaining warm comfortable and welcoming.

Wholesome, locally sourced food is served daily in the recently completed River Room, as well as the restaurant and bar/lounge area; cooked to perfection by a brigade of AA Rosette and Michellin experienced chefs.

CHRISTMAS FAYRE PRICES Ranging from £19.95 for 2 courses plus coffee to £27.95 for 5 courses.

DATES 30th November - 3rd January

HORTON GRANGE

COOK & BARKER INN

LOLLO ROSSO ITALIA

40 Bridge Street, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 1NL www.lollorossoitalia.co.uk Since opening it’s doors in October 2015, Lollo Rosso have gained a reputation as one of the top restaurants in the region. Originally based in a small restaurant in Morpeth, and with 2 years of acclaimed success following the opening, they soon outgrew their original premises.

December 2017 saw the opening of the stunning new Lollo Rosso Italia restaurant, on the site where the much loved ironmongery of J. Smail & Sons once stood on Bridge Street in the heart of the town. The quality of the food, and the friendliness of the welcome hasn’t changed at all still delicious, freshly prepared food, and a friendly, vibrant atmosphere.

The Cook and Barker Inn, Newtonon-the-Moor, Felton, Morpeth, NE65 9JY Tel: 01665 575234 www.cookandbarkerinn.co.uk A real traditional Northumbrian Country Inn’ is the perfect description for The Cook & Barker Inn. From its elevated location in the picturesque village of Newton on the Moor, the Inn enjoys outstanding views of both the Northumberland Coast and the Cheviot hills. The combination of excellent cuisine and a delightfully traditional warm and welcoming atmosphere have meant the Cook & Barker is always one of the most popular destinations in the region for a hearty Christmas Fayre.

CHRISTMAS FAYRE PRICES 4 courses £22.50 DATES Check with the establishment for details

Berwick Hill Road, Ponteland, Newcastle NE13 6BU Tel: 01661 860686 www.hortongrange.co.uk Horton Grange Country House Hotel & Restaurant is the perfect location to relax & enjoy your Christmas & New Year celebrations this year! On offer is a wide range of Festive Lunch and Dinner options that are sure to get you in the seasonal spirit!

As always Horton Grange always pull out all the stops at this time of year, and they have many exciting things for you to enjoy this Festive Season.

Events range from Festive Party Evenings, where you can dance and dine with your friends, to exciting Evenings featuring Live Music for everyone to enjoy. They will also be hosting Lunch on Christmas Day, so let them take care of the cooking and cleaning whilst you relax with loved ones.

CHRISTMAS FAYRE PRICES Lunch: 2 courses £19.50, 3 courses £23.50, Dinner: 2 courses £24.50, 3 courses £32.50 DATES Check with the establishment for details

Enjoy some festive food in a vibrant atmosphere at Lollo Ros so

CHRISTMAS FAYRE PRICES Lunch: 2 courses £15.95, 3 courses £19.95, Dinner: 2 courses £21.95, 3 courses £24.95 DATES Check with establishment for details 31

CHOPPINGTON SOCIAL WELFARE CENTRE

Wansbeck Voices Choir Christmas Performance Thursday 20th December 7.00pm Tickets on sale

Veteran Snooker Teams Players Wanted!

Sequence Dance Group Sunday & Tuesday 7pm - 10pm

Pilates Class

Wednesdays 6pm - 7pm Starting 14th November with Gill Glass Certified Pilates Instructor Pilates, Level 3

Line Dancing

Monday, Friday & Saturday 7pm to 10.30pm

Learn how to Line Dance to traditional music or dance to the latest pop music.

Carpet Bowls Wednesdays 7pm to 9.30pm

Joyce & Alec are looking for new members to come along & enjoy the company of their bowls group.

For more information on these groups & all the other activities taking place in the Centre

Call Neal on 01670 822028 or email: neal@choppington.org

Fernlea Drive, Scotland Gate, Choppington NE62 5SS www.choppington.org

Celebrate in style this Christmas!

Bangladesh & Indian Cuisine FULLY LICENCED

·

TAPAS NIGHTS MONDAYS & THURSDAYS

£15.00 per person

RESTAURANT & TAKEAWAY

·

AIR CONDITIONED

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY NIGHT SPECIAL

NEW YEAR’S EVE

£15.95 per person

£29.95

SET MENU per person

WE’RE PERFECT FOR LARGE BOOKINGS

46-48 FRONT STREET WEST, BEDLINGTON, NE22 5UB

Tel: 01670 820 222

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: SUN - THURS 5.00PM - 11.00PM | FRI - SAT 5.00PM - 11.30PM

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

GIVE SOMEONE POWER OF ATTORNEY… BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE Lasting Powers of Attorney are invaluable documents as part of the overall planning of your estate as managing your financial affairs can become more difficult as you get older. If a person is unable to manage their affairs due to mental incapacity and they have not made a valid Enduring or Lasting Power of Attorney, their assets will be frozen as no one (including their spouse and children) has the authority to deal with them.

At this point someone will need to apply to the Court of Protection to be appointed as the person’s Deputy. The Court will then authorize the Deputy to deal with the person’s affairs in a certain manner. This is a very time consuming (around 6 months) and expensive (in the region of £1,750) process. This situation can be simply avoided through the making of a Lasting Power of Attorney.

By making a Lasting Power of Attorney you can decide whom you would like to manage your affairs in the event that you are unable to do so either due to physical or mental incapacity.

There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney that can be made, one dealing with your property and financial affairs and the other dealing with your personal welfare.

Personal Welfare

This power gives your attorney the authority to make decisions regarding your healthcare and medical treatment.

Property and Affairs

This power enables your attorney to deal with your bank accounts and your property. This includes decisions in relation to selling or renting your property, paying your bills, applying for benefits you are entitled to and all aspects of dealing with your bank accounts, savings and investments.

34 34

All work we undertake is at fixed fees: Single Property and Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney: £300 inclusive of VAT Double Property and Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney (suitable for couples): £420 inclusive of VAT Single Will: £120 inclusive of VAT Mirror Will: £156 inclusive of VAT It is imperative that specialist advice is taken in order to ensure that the power given accurately reflects your wishes.

Call Crichton Wills Trusts & Probate on 01670 514772 and speak to a specialist adviser today who will be happy to discuss any concerns you may have and offers a free no obligation appointment in the comfort of your own home.

55 Beaumont Court, Pegswood, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 1BF

Price of Family Trust ÂŁ1,620 (inc. VAT)

35

Watch the video of these lamps in action at www. fineandsandy .co.uk

Wide range of Elemis Gift Sets

Kirsha Knowles Hair & Beauty 4a Northumberland Park Centre, Earsdon Road, Shiremoor, NE27 0SJ

Personalised Baby Feet Pottery

Range available from £11, Hotpotz, 156 Park View, Whitley Bay, NE26 3QW www.hotpotz.co.uk

FOR HER

Ice Starburst Pyramid Lamp

These 60cm tall lamps create swirling Starburst patterns — mesmerising for cold, dark winter evenings. £36.95.

Fine & Sandy, 20 Front Street, Tynemouth www.fineandsandy.co.uk

Shop local this year, there’s so much to choose from with a wide range of local indpendent businesses

Joma Jewellery Seeing Stars Bangle £26.50, eleven Boutique, The Old Church, Cramlington, NE23 3XN

Sony Cybershot W800

£79.99, FotoSnaps 24 High St E, Wallsend NE28 8PQ www.fotosnapswallsend.co.uk

Beautiful wintery fragrance.

Contains 2 x Candles and 1 x Diffuser

Photo Mugs -Using your own image £11.99, FotoSnaps 24 High St E, Wallsend NE28 8PQ www.fotosnapswallsend.co.uk 36

Stoneglow Frosted Woods Cracker Gift Set £18.95, Fine & Sandy, 20 Front Street, Tynemouth www.fineandsandy.co.uk

For ages 2.5 to 5 years

Bigjigs Wooden British Isles Puzzle £11, Tribe, 23 Percy Park Road,Tynemouth, NE30 4LX www.yourtribe.co.uk

Hippychick Wheelybug Mouse Ride On Toy

£59.99, Babythingz, North Tyne Industrial Estate, Whitley Road, Benton, NE12 9SZ www.babythingz.com

Press n Play Pal

Santa Treat Plate

Range of personalised pottery from £11, Hotpotz, 156 Park View, Whitley Bay, NE26 3QW www.hotpotz.co.uk

FOR KIDS

£15.96, Babythingz, North Tyne Industrial Estate, , Benton, NE12 9SZ www.babythingz.com

Kids Chunky Knit Beanie

£14, Longsands Clothing Co., Green Ginger Shopping Arcade, Tynemouth, NE30 4BP www.longsandsclothing.com

Construction Set, complete with everything to make an articulated JCB vehicle.

Suitable for any age.

Frugi Reversible Cat Dress £32, Tribe, 23 Percy Park Road,Tynemouth, NE30 4LX www.yourtribe.co.uk

JCB Tracked Excavator

£17.99, J&J Models, Packhorse Buildings, Newgate Street, Morpeth, NE61 1AW www.jandjmodels.co.uk CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

37

Etched wooden veneer finish.

Complete with funnel and two tumblers.

Helios 10 X 25 Sport Binoculars £19.99, FotoSnaps 24 High St E, Wallsend NE28 8PQ www.fotosnapswallsend.co.uk

North East iconic landmarks hip flask

£28.00, For the Love of the North, 266 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 2TG www.fortheloveofthenorth.co.uk

Longsands Made in the North Tee £22, Hamiedog Menswear 77 Park View, Whitley Bay, NE26 3RL www.hamiedog.co.uk

FOR HIM Get some inspiration with these gifts from local independent retailers

Available in red or blue. Other vehicles and planes available in range

Airfix Quick Build VW Campervan

£12.99, J&J Models, Packhorse Buildings, Newgate Street, Morpeth, NE61 1AW www.jandjmodels.co.uk 38

Newcastle United Golf Accessories £8.99, ZFL Golf North Tyne Industrial Estate, Whitley Road, Benton, NE12 9SZ

Northwind 'Armstrong' Automatc Watch £295, Hamiedog Menswear 77 Park View, Whitley Bay, NE26 3RL or www.northwindwatches.com

‘Have a canny Christmas’ card

£2.50, For the Love of the North 266 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 2TG www.fortheloveofthenorth.co.uk

www.babythingz.com Prams • Pushchairs • Car Seats • Nursery

Furniture • Changing Bags • Raincovers Mattresses • High Chairs & Lots More

INTEREST

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IT CRED ABLE AVAIL

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Tile North East Ltd NEED INSPIRATION?

Visit our showroom to pick up a new brochure

Unit 3, Hubbway Business Centre, Cramlington, NE23 8AD WEʼRE OPPOSITE AZURE GARDEN CENTRE NEXT TO TJʼS JUNGLE

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PramsNewcastle

The

3D Cakery

Cakes made for all occasions

Let us create that special cake for that special occassion Birthdays, Weddings, Christenings etc.

Cake Decorating Equipment & Consumables.

Cake Boards, Cake Boxes, Icing, Food Colouring etc.

The 3D Cakery Hirst Yard, Viewlands, Ashington, Northumberland, NE63 9AF

Tel: 01670 812852

www.the3dcakery.co.uk

margaret@the3dcakery.co.uk

THE CHERRY TREE

WELL WELL WELL!

After many months of discussions with Star Pubs, Liz & Alex have signed a new lease at The Cherry Tree Bar & Grill that will take it back to a Traditional Tenancy.

That means HOMEMADE FOOD will be back very soon!

We will shortly be publishing our New Menu containing some of our old favourites as well as exciting new dishes.

To keep up-to-date with all things Cherry Tree follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/thecherrytreebarandgrill

The Cherry Tree Bar & Grill Riversdale Avenue, Stakeford, NE62 5JZ

Tel: 01670 853380

41

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

CINDERS, YOU CAN WEAR CONTACT LENSES (PROBABLY!) R Green & Partners Opticians explain the advantages of contact lenses.

I

n discussion with my patients at the end of an eye examination I will normally run through what I think are the various and best options available to them.

For many, this will include an option to use contact lenses. The response to this suggestion can be extremely variable, some are keen to explore this, some don’t believe it is a realistic option, and the main reasons for reluctance to pursue contacts are generally a presumed high cost and the belief that they are too difficult to handle.

Despite this, research shows the reality to be quite different and that the main causes of either existing contact lens wearers dropping out of lens wear, or prospective wearers failing, are primarily discomfort, and secondarily, inadequate vision. It is not surprising then that modern contact lens design and materials address the issues of comfort and vision very well, so that the reality is that the vast majority of people can successfully wear contacts, at least for some of the time and experience high levels of comfort and good vision. Nowadays practitioners can successfully fit lenses in many patients where dryness would previously made comfortable and safe lens wear unlikely, and the vast majority of vision problems (not just short or long-sightedness) are correctable, so astigmatism and presbyopia – the aging eyes’ gradual loss of the ability to focus close up – for example, are easily manageable.

Figures from the Association of Contact Lens Manufacturers then are quite disappointing, as they show in the UK that only about 3 million people wear contact lenses. Yet other figures show that about three-quarters of the UK population (so something like 45 million people) actually require vision correction and many of those are suitable for contact lens correction.

The benefits of contact lens correction over spectacles aren’t always obvious; many wear contacts for cosmetic purposes but in fact there can be significant practical advantages – the obvious ones are for sports where

Happy Christmas to all from the team at R Green & Partners Opticians!

62 Bridge Street, Morpeth, NE61 1PQ Tel: 01670 513175 www.greenopticians.co.uk

glasses are impractical or possibly dangerous, but for many of us contacts offer a better standard of vision by reducing or eliminating the distortions associated with glasses. Also they don’t steam up when you pop in and out on a cold day, or when you open the oven door when cooking and you can see well in the rain. With many of us enjoying longer and more active retirement these benefits can be considerable, for pursuits such as walking, running, golf, skiing and tennis just as examples, and pretty much any outdoor activity. It also means you can wear nonprescription sunglasses, great for your holidays.

So then, what about the misconceptions mentioned in the first paragraph? Costs can vary depending on the complexity of the lens, its material, and what the wearing modality is. But, for example, a good monthly disposable lens can cost as little as about £14 pounds a month, including solutions and fees, and for daily disposable lenses I usually suggest budgeting from about £1 per pair.

More and more new contact lens wearers are opting for the convenience, safety and hygiene of daily disposables, and particularly if these are just for occasional wear such as for sports or social occasions, the costs can be minimal – just adding £1.00 to your night out, or your round of golf.

And as for handling them – well, they are a bit fiddly at first but your eyecare practitioner will offer instruction, and like most new skills, it’s easy with just a little practice.

Interested in trying them? We offer free no obligation trials with some of the best lenses available, and with options to pay monthly and to have them delivered to your home.

At our North Shields showroom you will meet people are passionate about design, quality and customer care. A visit to domani bathrooms will introduce you to everything from simple brassware to bespoke shower enclosures and our exclusive range of tiles We offer a full design & installation service so whether you have an immediate project in mind or are just simply looking for ideas, our knowledgeable enthusiastic design team can help you create a bathroom tailored for you and your needs

20% OFF EVERYTHING & FREE UNDERFLOOR HEATING WITH EVERY INSTALLED BATHROOM (NOT IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER)

Tyne Tunnel Trade Park, Unit 10, Narvik Way, North Shields NE29 7DE 0191 2964929

Suppliers of Luxury Tiles & Bathrooms

www.domanibathrooms.co.uk info@domanibathrooms.co.uk

OPENING HOURS: MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8.30AM - 5PM, SATURDAY 10AM - 4PM

43

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

GET YOUR HOME LOOKING BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL FOR CHRISTMAS

W

ith Christmas just around the corner, the thought of getting your home ready for the festivities and overnight guests can be overwhelming.

One of the many things that my housekeeping team hears from our clients is how wonderful they feel coming home to their clean, tidy and beautiful smelling homes.

So, to help you to stay relaxed and to create a warm and welcoming environment for all your family and friends this festive season, I’ve created a cleaning countdown to Christmas for you to follow.

MID DECEMBER

Walk through your home with a visitor’s eye to identify all the things that need cleaning, smartening up or fixing: make a list of any of these jobs.

Declutter. This is especially important if you have children as a tide of new toys and presents will be coming your way on Christmas morning. It’s probably a good time to go through their current toys and donate some to charity. The same can also be said for other rooms throughout the house.

A WEEK BEFORE CHRISTMAS

Tackle the bigger jobs first, especially those that are unlikely to need to be done again before Christmas Day such as cleaning the windows, washing the skirting boards, washing and ironing bed linen for guest rooms,

vacuuming the sofa, washing out the fridge to make way for party food etc.

Deep clean the bathroom; including the tops of cabinets and inside of cabinets, you’ll be surprised how many guests will take a nosey!

Deep clean the kitchen, doing the jobs you don’t tend to do on a daily basis such as washing cupboard fronts, fronts of appliances, inside the microwave and the bin.

Sort out the coat cupboard and store away items that are not worn very often in order to make way for guests coats.

CHRISTMAS EVE

Time to do the jobs in the areas that you hope won’t get too messy before the big day such as vacuuming and mopping floors, plumping up sofa cushions, giving the bathroom a quick once over and polishing mirrors.

Hang fresh hand towels and put out new hand soap in the toilets.

CHRISTMAS DAY

Empty the bins and put in fresh bin bags.

Spot check bathrooms, kitchen and floors for marks.

Carry a laundry basket around your home and pick up clutter and either put the things back where they should be or just hide the basket!

Finally, as guests arrive, pour yourself a glass of bucks fizz, enjoy the day with family and friends and make sure someone else takes care of the washing up!

Helen Ross is owner of Bright and Beautiful North Tyneside, a professional domestic housekeeping company, providing eco-friendly cleaning, tidying, laundry and ironing; with carefully selected professional cleaners working to the highest standards of security and service. If you don’t have time to follow Helen’s tips above give her a call for a one-off clean on 0191 731 4973 or check out www.brightandbeautifulhome.com/north-tyneside

Get Expert Advice

from specialist Family Law Solicitors on... ‣ Divorce ‣ Clean Break Consent Orders ‣ Child Arrangement Orders ‣ Prenuptial Agreements ‣ Domestic Abuse

Free Initial Half Hour Appointment Fixed Fees Legal Aid

Call 0191 296 1777 www.hindlecampbell.co.uk

lawyer@hindle-campbell.co.uk

8 Northumberland Square, North Shields, NE30 1QQ Hindle Campbell Law is the Business Name of Hindle Campbell Limited (registration number 2284273). Hindle Campbell Limited is registered in England & Wales with number 07868062 with its registered office at 8 Northumberland Square North Shields NE30 1QQ. Our VAT registration number is 297654011. We are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (http://www.sra.org.uk) (registration number 629863).

45

SPECIAL OFFER

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Find us inside Pets at Home Did you know Vets4Pets Morpeth is owned & run by local resident Frances Gray?

Veterinary Surgeon Frances Gray BVM&S MRCVS lives locally with her family and expanding menagerie of ponies, dogs, cat, chickens and ducks!

Contact us for an appointment today Vets4Pets Morpeth Inside Pets At Home, Stanley Terrace, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 1PA Call: 01670 500 670 or visit: vets4pets.com/morpeth *Terms and conditions apply.

Please see vets4pets.com/morpeth for details.

46

Lifetime vaccination protection for your dog or cat

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