ABC Magazine: Whitley Bay - Dec 22

CHRISTMAS AT SPANISH CITY

There are not many better places to spend a cosy winter’s afternoon, or to dance the night away at a festive party than at the iconic Spanish City.

From the 30 foot Christmas tree and festive decor, to the unmissable Christmas events and meeting Santa Claus, every corner of Spanish City comes alive with festive cheer at this time of year.

The iconic Spanish City was returned to its former glory in 2018, to rekindle its love affair with the residents and visitors of Whitley Bay.

During the year, Spanish City hosts everything from Christmas markets and corporate exhibitions to birthday parties and spectacular weddings. Award-winning Trenchers Restaurant and Takeaway, finedining 1910 restaurant, Valerie’s Tearoom and The Champagne Bar take permanent homes inside the historic building. They have also built a name for our stunning afternoon teas, which can be enjoyed under the dome in The Gallery or with sea views in 1910.

Christmas is a particularly special time at Spanish City, with the venue hosting a variety of one off events and special menus. Festive Afternoon Teas are available right up until Christmas Eve and there are extra special Breakfasts and Lunch on select dates with Santa himself.

All the venues are open on Christmas Eve, and celebrations continue after the big day with a festive lunch with panto on Wednesday 28th and Thursday 29th of December. New Year’s Eve is a special night at the Spanish City, with family friendly dining, adult only dining and their fantastic New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner.

Saving the best until last, the Christmas Tribute Nights are back again for 2022. Here is a look at just a selection of the acts coming to Spanish City this Christmas.

CHRISTMAS TRIBUTE NIGHTS

Are you organising a special gettogether with family and friends, or treating the team for all their hard work? These Christmas Tribute Nights are the perfect way to celebrate the festive season.

You’ll enjoy a three-course meal with the perfect backdrop of the stunning sea views. Later let your hair down and dance until 12:30am with the resident DJ.

Each Tribute night is £42.50 per person and are held in the St Mary’s Lighthouse Suite.

Thursday 1st December

Freddie Mercury

The ultimate Freddie Mercury tribute act performs songs from a huge repertoire from every decade of Queen’s musical legacy and his solo career.

Sunday 4th December

Michael Bublé

Is it really Christmas with Michael Bublé? Get in the festive spirit by singing along to all of Bublé’s Christmas hits.

Sunday 11th December

Elvis

The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll comes to Whitley Bay for one night only, Join us for one night with the ultimate Elvis tribute.

Thursday 15th December

George Michael

The ultimate George Michael tribute act performing songs from his Wham! and his solo days.

Sunday 18th December

ABBA

Here we go again…Celebrate a night of dazzling entertainment with a fantastic ABBA tribute act that will bring back to life all of your favourite singalong hits.

Thursday 22nd December

Neil Diamond

The ultimate Rhinestone Cowboy tribute rides into Whitley Bay to play all his hits.

For more details on all of these events and more, visit www.spanishcity.co.uk

WINTER WONDERLAND RETURNS TO NEWCASTLE RACECOURSE

If you want to get in the festive spirit, we think we have found the perfect family experience.

Running from 17th November until Christmas Eve, Newcastle's biggest winter fair, Winter Wonderland, is back again for 2023.

Newcastle Racecourse will once again play host to a magical winter wonderland, complete with an ice rink, thrill-seeking rides, festive stalls, food and drink, and even an appearance from Santa Clause himself. There is something for all the family, from thrilling rides and attractions to tasty authentic street foods and warm glasses of mulled wine and German beers.

Winter Wonderland aims to please all ages, from tiny tots to thrill-seeking adults. Once inside the wonderland, as well as the thrilling rides, stalls and food and drink outlets, you will find the grinch, stilt walkers, face painters, a bungee, a zip liner and the fabulous roller coaster.

Rides start from £2 and can increase to £12.50 for the big thrill seeker rides. There are no age limits, all rides operate by height restriction, and each has a different height restriction.

A winter wonderland wouldn't be complete without an ice rink, and this year's event at the racecourse doesn't disappoint. Walk-ins are very limited, so it is recommended you book in advance, with prices ranging from £7.50 for children to £9.50 for adults (12 plus). Family tickets are also available.

The wonderland will again be home to Santa's Grotto this year, but only on certain days, so please check before you attend. When the grotto is open, there are no pre-booked slots; it is only walk-ups, and the cost is £6.99 per child. Two adults can accompany the children for free, and each child gets a soft teddy bear. Please also bear in mind that adults are asked not to take photos of their child with Santa but will be given the opportunity to purchase professional photographs.

There are a wide range of food stalls to cater to everyone's taste buds. The selection on offer includes everything from Oriental Chinese Noodles to Tasty Yorkshire Pudding Wraps, catering to those who love savoury. For those with a sweet tooth, they have Churros, Crepes, Donuts, Chocolate kisses, and much more.

While the kids are having fun, why not treat yourself to a cup of warm mulled wine or a German beer? The wonderland plays host to a German bar so, if you are looking for something to keep the winter chill away, make sure you call in for a stein of German beer or a warm glass of mulled wine.

Entrance tickets are available to be purchased from the Newcastle Racecourse Website. You will need an admission ticket to gain entry to the Winter Wonderland. Remember, if you wish to take to the ice on the Real Ice Rink, as well as purchasing a skating ticket, you will also need to have bought entry tickets.

“ While the kids are having fun, why not treat yourself to a cup of warm mulled wine or a German beer?

The wonderland plays host to a German bar.

Open 4pm – 9pm Weekdays, 12pm – 9pm Weekends. 12pm – 9pm Monday to Sunday (Out of term times).

For more information, updates, bookings and further ticket information, please visit www.winterwonderlandnewcastleracecourse.co.uk

THE BISCUIT FACTORY GIFT GUIDE

Shop local and independent this Christmas, and find original gifts at The Biscuit Factory in Ouseburn. With pieces starting under £30 you’ll find something for everyone among their collections. Take inspiration below, and visit the gallery to see their full collections!

FOR THE FOODIES:

1. Mouse cheese board in beech wood by Majid Lavasani, £30. Local furniture maker and wood-worker Majid Lavasani crafts beautiful, functional pieces for everyday use. His cheese boards are always sell outs, so grab one quickly!

2. Black porcelain and copper chilli flake bowl by Kirsty Adams, £30. For the avid cook; one of Gosforth-based ceramicist Kirsty Adams’ salt or chilli bowls is a thoughtful token that fits into their every day.

FOR THE JEWELLERY LOVERS:

3. Golden Seed Studs by Silverkupe £59. Silverkupe’s EmineThompson combines sterling silver with 24k gold plate to create organic-inspired jewellery right here in Newcastle!

4. Double Circle Sterling Silver necklace by Elin Horgan £50. Simple geometric jewellery makes a subtle statement for those who like to keep their look streamlined, like this silver necklace by contemporary jeweller Elin Horgan.

FOR THE EXPERIENCE-SEEKERS:

5. Botanical Embroidery Workshop with Lucy Freeman £65 per person. For those who like to try new experiences, why not book one of The Biscuit Factory’s creative workshops? A cohort of artists deliver sessions for small groups across a range of activities; from embroidery to oil painting, ceramics to wire sculpture. Better yet, spend some quality time creating together then enjoy an Afternoon Tea or Brunch for Two in The Factory Kitchen Cafe!

SPREAD THE COST OF CHRISTMAS:

6. Own Art Scheme. When buying original art and craft at The Biscuit Factory you can apply to spread the cost of your purchase with their Own Art scheme. Whether one statement gift, or several pieces together, when you spend £100 online or in the gallery you can use the interest-free finance scheme to pay over 10 instalments, starting the month after your purchase!

The Biscuit Factory16 Stoddart Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 1AN. Open Daily 10 - 5. www.thebiscuitfactory.com Tel: 0191 261 1103

CULTURAL TOURS OF THE NORTH EAST

Tyne Idols

To celebrate the enormous wealth of talent born in our region, Tyne Idols organise and host unforgettable experiences, promotions and tours throughout the North East.

Their hugely popular music and cultural tours take place aboard their classic double decker bus, and provide hours of local fact-finding fun. Most tours are hosted by Geordie legend Ray Laidlaw, the former drummer with the legendary folk-rock band Lindisfarne. Here is a small selection of the tours available….

THE DEFINITELY VERY LAST "HIM OFF THE VIZ" TOUR WITH SIMON DONALD

Wednesday, December 28, 2022. 15:00 18:00

Simon Donald and the Tyne Idols team would like to invite you on even yet another very special, one-off tour. This is now the squillionth tour he has done, so you know how it gans, but this tour will include a new venue visit, so you’ll have to be on it to find out where! Starts 3.00pm from Bewick Street, Newcastle to take advantage of the diminishing light. Tickets £25 per person.

NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD TOUR

WITH RAY LAIDLAW

Wednesday, May 3, 2023. 19:00 22:00 Join the team for their famous music and film heritage tour departing Bewick Street, Newcastle (opposite Central Station) at 7.00pm and returning roughly three hours later — they’re usually a bit late returning because there’s so much to see and talk about!

The three hour tour of on-board chat and music, hosted by the legendary Mr Ray Laidlaw, includes two stop-offs at very popular watering holes, promising as always to be a fun-packed evening out! Departing from Bewick Street, Newcastle at 7.00pm. Tickets £20 per person.

NORTH TYNESIDE "COASTAL HEROES" TOUR WITH RAY LAIDLAW

Sunday, May 7, 2023. 15:00 18:00

The Coastal Heroes Tours celebrates local legends of TV, film and music. Hosted by the irresistible Mr Ray Laidlaw, the three hour tour will also include some very special guests, and there will be not one but two refreshment breaks throughout to whet your whistle in some carefully selected and interesting establishments. Leaving the Gibraltar Rock pub, Tynemouth at 3.00pm. Tickets £20 per person.

THE MOST CERTAINLY VERY LAST "HIM OFF THE VIZ" TOUR WITH SIMON DONALD

Thursday, May 11, 2023. 19:00 22:00

Simon Donald and the team would ONCE AGAIN like to invite you on yet another extremely special one-off tour. How many so-called “one-off” Viz tours has it been now? You can’t have too many!

Starts 7.00pm from Bewick Street, Newcastle for three (and-a-bit maybe) hours of hearty laughter and uproarious mirth. Tickets £25 per person.

For all ticket information please call Julie Clay on 07944 338026 or 0191 257 9427 or email Julie at julieclay23@gmail.com. For general enquiries please email info@tyneidols.com.

Tours celebrate the wealth of local North East talent with their fantastic range of tours

PANTO SEASON IS HERE!

Can you believe it’s nearly Christmas already? Oh no it isn’t! Oh yes it is! There are a number of things that get us in the festive spirit — seeing Christmas trees and decorations spring up, visiting a Christmas market, seeing the Christmas adverts appear on TV. But few things truly get us into the spirit of Christmas like a good old panto! Here are just a small selection of pantomimes in the local area sure to get us in the festive swing..

CINDERELLA

Theatre Royal Newcastle

29th November 2022 - 15th January 2023

You are invited to the most spectacular ball of them all! Panto superstar Danny Adams leads the cast in a brandnew production of Cinderella, with sets and costumes from The London Palladium. Joining Danny will be panto favourites Clive Webb and Chris Hayward, with Joe McElderry making a triumphant return as The Fairy Godfather following his acclaimed debut last Christmas.

Danny, Clive, Chris and Joe will be joined by street dance collective and Britain’s Got Talent finalists, Flawless, comedian Mick Potts, and Oonagh Cox in the title role of Cinderella.

Newcastle Theatre Royal’s pantomime is widely regarded as one of the most successful Christmas shows in the country. If you’ve been before, we can promise you the best one yet, and if you haven’t yet shared the magic of our panto with us, come and see what you’ve been missing! www.theatreroyal.co.uk/whats-on/cinderella

ALADDIN

Whitley Bay Playhouse

9th December 2022 - 7th January 2023

Following on from the smash hit Snow White, North Tyneside’s No.1 Pantomime team return this December with another Christmas cracker!

The classic adventure story of Aladdin and his magic lamp is brought to life as always in Blue Genie Entertainments own unique style. With special effects, flying carpets, fantastic scenery and dazzling costumes and all the usual mad comedy mayhem. This all-singing,

all-dancing, feel good family festive treat promises to be the highlight of your year! Starring Playhouse legend Steve Walls, your Favourite Dame Patsy Twankey and Chico as Aladdin, you don’t have to be a Genie-us to work out this is one pantomime not to be missed.

www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk/events/christmaspantomime-aladdin

BEAUTY & THE BEAST

Tyne Theatre & Opera House

9th December 2022 – 8th January 2023

Enchanted Entertainment return to the Tyne Theatre & Opera House in 2022 with another spellbinding Pantomime. Starring the hilarious North East panto comic Charlie Richmond, as well as Karen The Mam’s Lewis Denny’. The theatre are also excited to announce that Amelle Berrabah, who is best known as one of the members of Sugababes, will be the ‘Good Fairy’ in Beauty and the Beast this Christmas at Tyne Theatre and Opera House!

www.tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk/events/ enchanted-entertainment-presents-beauty-the-beast

SLEEPING BEAUTY

Gala Theatre - Durham 23rd November 2022 - 8th January 2023

Briar Rose is about to turn 16, and she has just found out that she is to be married to poetry-mad Prince Chad of Middles-boroughly. But she has a plan - she’ll run away and escape with the help of her best friend Sammie the Dog.

However, having not received an invite from King Archibald of Durham-ion to Briar Rose’s Christening years prior, the Evil Witch Karen has cast a curse which will see Briar Rose sleep for a hundred years and she’s got one more spell up her sleeve to make sure that happens.

Brought to life by the cast of new and familiar faces, this hilarious telling of the classic story mixes mayhem, music, laughter and some incredibly interesting ice cream. www.galadurham.co.uk/galapost/sleeping-beauty

Our Private Day Nurseries are located in North Shields Centre and at the top of Rake Lane (next to Vets 4 Pets). We have access to great outdoor spaces on a daily basis as well as educational outings for all children.

Healthy balanced meals and snacks are on offer as well as ensuring any dietary requirements. Our fees include your child’s personal Learning Journey file with photographs, all meals, snacks, outings, visitors into nurseries etc. We do not have any hidden charges.

If available, we offer full day, half day, hours to suit shift workers, term time only as well as all year round, 51 weeks of the year.

Little Learners was voted as one of the best places to work in the North East for 2 years running and we are an Ofsted Good Early Years Provider.

Lovaine Place, North Shields NE29 0BU ( 07914 376 434

LIBRARY FINES TO BE SCRAPPED IN NORTH TYNESIDE

Library fines for overdue books are set to become a thing of the past in North Tyneside.

Starting in December, customers will no longer be asked to pay a fine if they return their books later than the due date.

An amnesty on late fees will see library users handed a clean slate and all historic fines being cancelled from 1st December, meaning anyone with a long overdue book can return it with nothing to pay. To celebrate this early Christmas present, the council is offering vouchers for its sport and leisure centres as a prize for the most overdue library book in North Tyneside.

The council hopes the initiative will encourage more people to frequent their local library to borrow books - and return overdue ones - and that libraries will be more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Users can already access free e-books, e-Audiobooks and e-Magazines without fear of being fined through the council’s digital library, BorrowBox.

The move complements the council’s Warm Welcome sessions, in which residents are invited to use libraries and Customer First Centres as safe and warm places this winter.

Running six days a week at the borough’s Customer First Centres and libraries, the local authority is inviting anyone who

would like to, to use the facilities as a safe and warm place this winter.

Hot drinks, wi-fi, computer access, baby-friendly facilities, film and book clubs and board games are just some of the free things on offer.

Sandra Graham, Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries, said: “Fines have been standard practice in public libraries for more than a century, originally to get people to return books on time. Without a fine, it was thought that there would be nothing to stop people returning books late - or never - which would prevent other people from reading them."

“Removing fines will allow us to remove financial barriers to the use of libraries, encouraging greater use, particularly for those who have the least opportunities to access books in other ways, and supporting literacy and learning in our borough."

"In the current economic climate, when we are promoting our libraries as warm spaces for people to spend time in to save money, we believe it is the ideal time to remove our library fines and offer a little extra help for people during these tough times."

"For those customers who haven’t been to a library for a while it’s also a chance to see how much our offer has changed with things like free Wi-Fi, free access to ancestry websites and free use of computers. There are also lots of activities taking place all year round for all ages."

The move by North Tyneside Council follows a national trend towards scrapping fines, with around 60 authorities around the UK having done so since 2018.

Local businesses will receive a welcome festive boost this year, as free weekend parking returns in December.

The initiative aims to support local traders and the economy by encouraging Christmas shoppers to visit the borough’s town centres and busy village centres for their festive shopping.

On-street parking is already free on Sundays in North Shields, Wallsend and Whitley Bay town centres, with the Council extending this to Saturdays throughout December. In addition, free on-street parking on Front Street, Tynemouth, will be in place on Saturdays and Sundays.

North Tyneside’s Deputy Mayor Cllr Carl Johnson said: “We want people to be able to choose to support their local businesses this Christmas. By providing more free parking over this important period for our businesses, it will make it easier for people to shop locally in our borough.

“North Tyneside will be full of seasonal-spirit this year with Christmas lights displays and festive events, and I’m really hoping our residents and visitors can support some of the fantastic local businesses by doing their Christmas shopping here.” Ticket machines will be temporarily suspended on weekends throughout December in the following locations:

North Shields

Back Howard Street, Bedford Street, Camden Street, Church Way, Little Bedford Street, Lovaine Place, Nile Street, Norfolk Street, Northumberland Place, Northumberland Square, Railway Terrace, Rudyerd Street, Russell Street, Sidney Street, Spring Terrace, Stephenson Street, Suez Street, Tyne Street, Union Street, West Percy Street.

Wallsend

Beech Grove, Chestnut Street, Elton Street East, Hawthorn Grove, Laburnum Avenue, Laurel Street, Woodbine Avenue.

Whitley Bay Beach Avenue, Brook Street, Clifton Terrace, Coquet Avenue, Duchess Street, Duke Street, Fern Avenue, Holly Avenue, Laburnum Avenue, Jesmond Terrace, Marine Gardens, North Parade, Ocean View, Oxford Street, Park Avenue, Park Parade, Roxburgh Terrace, Station Road, Victoria Terrace.

Tynemouth Front Street

There are also hundreds of free spaces available via the following council-managed car parks:

North Shields: Norfolk Street car park, King Street car park.

Wallsend: Atkinson Terrace car park, Coronation Street car park.

Whitley Bay: Back Park View car park, Park Road car park, Playhouse car park, Whitley Road car park.

Tynemouth: Priors Haven car park.

FILM RELEASES

SHE SAID

Genres: Drama Age Rating: 15 Release date: 25th November

THE MENU

Genres: Comedy, Horror Age Rating: 18

Release date: 18th November

Young couple Margot and Tyler travel to a remote island to eat at Hawthorne, an exclusive restaurant run by celebrity chef Slowik, who has prepared a lavish molecular gastronomy menu where food is treated as conceptual art, but his approach to cuisine has some shocking surprises for the wealthy guests. Starring Mark Mylod; Anya Taylor-Joy; Nicholas Hoult and Ralph Fiennes.

Two-time Academy Award nominee Carey Mulligan and Zoe Kazan star as New York Times reporters Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor, who together broke a story that helped launch the #Metoo move ment, shattered decades of silence around the subject of sexual assault in Hollywood.

The Way of Water” begins to tell the story of the Sully family (Jake, Neytiri, and their kids), the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive, and the tragedies they endure. Once a familiar threat returns to finish what was previously started, Jake must work with Neytiri and the army of the Na’vi race to protect their planet.

STRANGE WORLD

Genres: Animation, Action Age Rating: PG

Release date: 23rd November

Journey to a place where nothing is as it appears! Walt Disney Animation Studios’ orig inal action-adventure ‘Strange World’ journeys deep into an uncharted and treacherous land where fantastical creatures await the legendary Clades, a family of explorers whose differences threaten to topple their lat est - and by far - most crucial mission. With voice acting from Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal and Lucy Liu.

VIOLENT NIGHT

Genres: Action, Comedy Age Rating: TBC Release date: 2nd December

A coal-dark holiday action-com edy that says you should always bet on red. When a team of merce naries breaks into a wealthy family compound on Christmas Eve, taking everyone inside hostage, the team isn’t prepared for a surprise combatant: Santa Claus (David Harbour) is on the grounds, and he’s about to show why this Nick is no saint.

I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY

Genres: Biography, Drama Age Rating: PG Release date: 26th December

The joyous, emotional and heartbreaking celebration of the life and music of Whitney Houston, the greatest female R&B pop vocalist of all time. Tracking her journey from obscurity to musical super stardom.

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER

Genres: Action, Fantasy Age Rating: TBC Release date: 16rd December

Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, “Avatar:

A MAN CALLED OTTO

Genres: Comedy, Drama Age Rating: 18 Release date: 6th January

Otto (Tom Hanks) is a grumpy isolated widower with staunch principles, strict routines and a short fuse, who gives everyone in his neighborhood a hard time as he watches over it like a hawk. Just as it seems like he’s finally given up on life, an unlikely and reluctant friendship develops with his new neighbors. Little by little, Otto undergoes a subtle transformation…but is he really capable of change?

AFFORDABLE LUXURY WITH THE CONCEPT CARE PLAN THIS CHRISTMAS

Tucked away on Front Street, in the heart of Tynemouth, you will find a rather different kind of opticians.

Eye wear at Concept Eye Clinic is chosen carefully serving the wonderfully eclectic palettes of the people who travel here for their eye examination or, who just pop in to browse the latest offerings. Frames here have their own narrative. Retro, luxury and often hallmarked by an unusual design feature and material. The Barton Perreira collection is in a class of it’s own...

It’s acetate is made from an organic, hypoallergenic plastic that is derived from wood pulp and cotton fibres to create durable, flexible, and sustainable frames that will endure a lifetime of wear. After a piece is sculpted, it undergoes a final 4 day polishing by hand to ensure a soft, seamless feel from front to temple.

Once a frame is shaped, Japanese artisans add Barton Perreira’s signature touches, from intricate, hand-engraved filigree to stunning accents and patterns achieved through innovative technologies. Each piece is meticulously inspected to meet highest quality standards before it is added the Concept collection.They call it a ‘natural instinct’. We like the people behind Barton Perreira. Anarchic curators and innovators of fashion who designed for and inspired Vera Wang, Prada, Miu Miu and Paul Smith and Oliver People.

It’s all about who you are.

Okay, so one can describe the acetate, hinge technology or hand made quality, but holding it in your hands and of course trying on a pair is a visceral experience. Sheer pleasure. Don’t take this as gospel. You’re very welcome to browse and see for yourself. Concept Eye Clinic is after all, the ‘art of the optometrist’ – where luxury and probably the best eye care in the region is attentively affordable. Barton Perreira commands it’s own lexicon. This luxury eyewear brand was born out of independence, intuition and freedom. At Concept we believe that access to the best eye care possible is not just a privilege but a human right. As the cost of living rises, there is no exorbitant premium here on health and wellbeing. Recognising that contact lens and spectacle wearers are increasingly discerning about value for money in the optical market, Concept offers an interest-free membership programme for continuous care. Each plan is bespoke to clinical need and designed to provide an integrative and affordable advanced luxury eye care and style package for all our patients.

ASK ABOUT OUR CARE PLAN

Join our interest free care plan to enjoy the benefits of premier eye care and beautiful eye wear and lenses as often as you like from only £7.99 a month.

CONCEPT EYE CLINIC

25 Front Street, Tynemouth, NE30 4DX

Tel: 0191 296 6124

Email: tynemouth@concepteyeclinic.com www.concepteyeclinic.com

GET ON BOARD IN 2023

Local coach tourism expert Graham Wright of United Group Travel has worked in the industry as a driver for many years, the last few spent as a tour driver for a local North East coach holiday company, until the pandemic had a catastrophic effect on the industry, with many companies going out of business.

Over the years, on his numerous tours both abroad and in the UK, Graham built up a fantastic relationship with many of his passengers, and he is lucky to call many of them friends. They really appreciated Graham’s vast experience and knowledge of the places he visited, to the extent that a lot of passengers started asking who the driver would be before they actually booked a tour with the company. It was during a conversation with one of his friends that the question was asked about starting his own company and running his own holidays.

Graham has put all his years’ experience and knowledge to good use while planning his exclusive tours. All the tours are exceptional value for money, and he only selects the best-established quality hotels, that are generally either known to him, or he has previously used them before. The specific day trips on each tour are also carefully created, all based on Graham’s knowledge, as well as any relevant previous customer feedback and suggestions to ensure they are always enjoyed. The trips do not leave the hotel too early, or return too late, so as to allow everyone to make full

use of the facilities. Guaranteed free time, as well as entertainment, are also key factors that he takes into account to try and make a tour as pleasurable an experience as possible.

It’s nice to have something to look forward to, so why not book yourself on a coach tour. The advert on the opposite page shows you what’s on offer.

Give yourself something to look forwrad to in the New Year with a selction of spring tours, including an adventure in the Welsh countryside, an all incluive drinks trip to Blackpool and Harrogate and an all inclusive party at the excellent Winnock Hotel in Perth.

Rest assured that you can book with confidence with United Travel. They have been granted a COVID-19 Industry Standard Certificate, which shows that government and industry COVID-19 guidelines are followed. Plus, if your tour is cancelled due to COVID restrictions, you will receive a full refund.

Graham would like to thank all of his wonderful customers that continued to support him throughout 2021 and 2022 and he’s looking forward to welcoming you onboard!

Tel: 01670 632460 / 07957 141654 www.unitedgrouptravel.com

Facebook: United Group Travel Ltd

Email: graham.john.unitedgrouptravel@gmail.com

United Group Travel are taking bookings now for their popular coach tours.

The Winnock, Loch Lomond

Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa

CHEAT’S CHERRY TRIFLE

We guarantee everyone will have room for dessert when you delight them with this cheat’s cherry trifle. This sweet recipe utilises canned cherry pie filling and shop bought custard for quickness and ease, but your guests will never know! Serves 10

INGREDIENTS

• 5 sheets of leaf gelatine

• 2 x 410g cans of cherry pie filling

• 400g of Madeira cake or madeleines

• 6 tbsp cherry jam

• 3tbs amaretto liquor

• 800ml good-quality shop bought custard

• 400ml double cream

• 1 tsp corn flour

• 1 tbsp icing sugar

• 15g flaked almonds, toasted

• Edible glitter or gold sprinkle dust and gold edible balls to decorate

Method

1. To make the jelly layer, soften the gelatine in a small bowl of water. Tip the cherry pie filling into a saucepan with 100ml of water and gently cook on a low heat on the hob, being careful not to boil.

2. Add the softened gelatine sheets to the cherry pie filling and stir until dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before transferring to a 20cm trifle dish. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until the mixture has set.

3. Cut the Madeira cake or madeleines in half, length ways.

Spread with the cherry jam and sandwich back together before cutting into large chunks. Arrange the chunks in a layer on top of the jelly and then drizzle over the amaretto. Gently pour over the custard and level over with a palette knife. Refrigerate for a further 30 minutes - 1 hour.

4. Meanwhile, place the cream in a large bowl and sieve in the icing sugar and corn flour (this will help stabilize the cream if you are making this in advance). Whisk the cream mixture until soft peaks form, then spoon the cream on top of the custard and scatter over the flaked almonds, glitter, and gold balls. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Recipe’s courtesy of Dobbies. For more festive food inspiration, and to browse Dobbies’ seasonal ranges visit www.dobbies.com.

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

THE ORIGINS OF THE ADVENT CALENDAR

BY KATE MCCARTHY

I loved the arrival of the Advent Calendar when I was growing up. Every year we had a cardboard one from Woolworths, printed with a Christmas scene, each little door opening to reveal a tiny picture such as a teddy, a reindeer or a bauble.

My brother and I would take it turns to be 'odds' or 'evens'. I always wanted to be 'evens' so I could open the Christmas Eve door which was always slightly larger and had a picture of the Nativity or Santa on the roof of a snow-covered house. When some of the kids at school started boasting about their 'chocolate' Advent Calendars we begged my dad for one and eventually he gave in. We were disappointed when we realised that once the chocolate was removed there was no picture, just an empty space where the chocolate had been. The 'open' chocolate Advent calendar had all the charm of a mouth with missing teeth. We never asked for another one.

The Advent calendar originates from Germany. It began with German Protestants marking the days of Advent either by burning a candle or marking a wall with chalk. This morphed into the practice of hanging a devotional image every day and ultimately to the creation of the first known wooden Advent calendar in 1851. The first printed calendars appeared just after 1900. Small doors were added in the 1920s. Often short bible verses were hidden behind the doors alongside the picture. During the World War ll cardboard rationing put a stop to advent calendars but when hostilities ceased Richard Sellmar of Stuttgart obtained a permit from the US officials to begin printing and selling them again. He designed a calendar based on a German winter town scene. By the 1950s, they were mass-produced and affordable and exported across the world.

Chocolate Advent Calendars might seem like the new kids on the block but they have been around longer than you might think. Fry and Son produced the first chocolate Advent calendar as early as 1958 and Cadbury popularised them in the Seventies. Lego got in

on the action in 1998 with a set that contained a Santa Claus minifigure and simple brick-made structures, which could be finally reassembled into a bigger model or scene. They've produced at least one every year since. My oldest teen begs me for their Harry Potter one every year.

Over the past decade Advent calendars have gone 'luxury’ and become a key marketing strategy for many companies. This started around 2010 when Selfridges department store launched a beauty-themed Advent calendar with the cosmetics giant L’Oréal. It was filled with product samples from fragrances to body creams. There is now a advent calendar catering for pretty much every taste, most of them marketed at adults rather than children. There are advent calendars for gin-lovers, tea-lovers, and nailpolish addicts; there is even one for pets, and they are not cheap! Some cost upwards of £150!

“

The first printed calendars appeared just after 1900. Small doors were added in the 1920s.

It's all a worlds away from Sellmar-Verlag, now run by Richard's grandchildren, which still produces traditional card Advent calendars to this day. The company’s most popular advent calendar is still Richard's original design, called Little Town.

A few years ago my husband (knowing my love of traditional Advent Calendars) bought me a wooden one which is reusable and is a beautiful Christmas decoration in its own right...in fact my teens actually argue over which one of them will inherit it when I die (that's the festive spirit guys!).

However you choose to mark the occasion...Happy Advent!

THE PHOTOGRAPHER’S EYE

As part of a series of articles designed to help you take better images, Anne Watson, a member of Whitley Bay Photographic Society, discusses composition.

Composition is one of the key elements of photography, and in its most basic sense, it’s how you, the photographer, create visual impact through what appears in your picture and where. It’s your decision when to take a photo of your subject, but ‘composition’ is what separates a welltaken image from a snap-shot. Millions of photographs are uploaded to the internet every day, and this article is designed to help your photos stand out from the crowd.

Whilst ‘rules’ are meant to be broken, there are some tried and tested techniques that photographers employ to guide the viewer's eye through an image. When looking through the viewfinder or on your smartphone, the first decision to make is which orientation best suits your subject. Landscape is where the longest sides of the frame are top and bottom and Portrait is where the longest sides are on the left and right. There’s a clue in their names, but it’s your creative decision as to which to employ. Are you looking for a wide scenic shot, or is the subject you’re interested in showing the star of the show?

Tip: Take both orientations and see which one grabs your attention.

Placing your subject in the centre of the image doesn’t always give the viewer a sense of visual impact and can lead to an image that gets only a second or two of the viewers’ attention. An alternative approach is to use a technique dating back to the 18th century called the Rule of Thirds.

Almost all cameras and most smartphones I’ve come across will let you put a ‘grid’ up on the screen

or viewfinder. This divides the view into 3 equal parts, both horizontally and vertically. In a scenic landscape, it helps to place the horizon on either the top or bottom horizontal line to emphasize the sky or the ground.

The 4 points where the vertical and horizontal lines intersect are great for positioning the focal point(s) of the image, as in this Kingfisher, where the grid lines meet at the bird’s head.

Composition is such an important subject in creating images with impact that in the next edition, we’ll look at more creative ideas, such as the Rule of odds, leading lines and central subjects, amongst others, to help you improve your Photographer’s Eye and to get your images noticed.

If you’re interested in joining the Whitley Bay Photographic Society, please visit www.wbphoto.org

Landscape or Portrait: The first decision to make is which orientation best suits your subject.

GLORIOUS GINGERBREAD

Gingerbread

BY SARAH DAVEY

Ginger root originally came to Europe via the Silk Road, which was an ancient trade route, and in the Middle Ages it was used for medicinal purposes and in the preserving of meats.

By the late Middle Ages, Europeans had begun to bake sweet gingerbread biscuits. These were shaped like animals, kings, and queens, and were sometimes gilded with gold leaf. They were a staple at Medieval fairs across Europe, particularly in England, France, Holland, and Germany. Queen Elizabeth I is even said to have had some made to resemble the dignitaries visiting her court.

So popular was gingerbread that the fairs became known as Gingerbread Fairs, and the gingerbread biscuits were named ‘fairings.’ As the fairs took place throughout the year the shapes of the gingerbread changed with the seasons: flowers in the spring and leaves in the autumn.

The gingerbread houses we know today originated in Germany during the 16th century. Bakers created elaborate buildings were decorated with foil and white icing in addition to gold leaf. The Brothers Grimm penned the story of Hansel and Gretel, who discover a house made entirely of sweet treats, deep in the forest, but it's unclear whether the popularity of gingerbread houses were a result

of the fairy tale, or whether the fairy tale borrowed from an already established tradition.

Quite why gingerbread became associated with Christmas is also unclear but is probably due to a number of factors. Christmas markets were big 'whole town' events, and gingerbread is easy to make, and keeps well, so it’s ideal for selling on a stall. It's likely that the combination of white icing and foil decoration was easily adaptable to create miniature snow-covered dwellings which provided pretty centrepieces for the festive dinner tables of middle-class households. The longevity and structural integrity of gingerbread also lends itself well to creating edible decorations for hanging on trees or giving as gifts. Historically diets of ordinary people were simple and bland because sugar was an expensive luxury. People could only afford to splash out on ingredients for cakes, biscuits, and sweets occasionally, and Christmas was the time when even less well-off people spent a little extra on fancy food and drink.

Whatever its history, gingerbread is now firmly entwined with the festive season, from sweet little gingerbread reindeer to gingerbread lattes, the sight, smell, and taste of gingerbread is synonymous with Christmas.

GINGERBREAD RECIPE Easy

INGREDIENTS

75g unsalted butter

100g light brown soft sugar

100g golden syrup

225g plain flour, plus extra to dust

2tsp ground ginger

1tsp bicarbonate of soda

8cm gingerbread man cutter

Coloured icing pens

METHOD

1. In a small pan, heat the butter, sugar and golden syrup over a low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Set aside to cool for 5 minutes.

2. In a medium bowl, mix the flour, ginger and bicarbonate of soda. Make a well in the centre and pour in the butter mixture. Stir to combine. Using your hands, bring together to form a soft dough and knead briefly until smooth. Wrap and chill for 15min to firm up slightly.

3. Line 2 large baking sheets with baking parchment. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 3mm thick. Using a gingerbread man cutter, stamp out shapes, re-rolling trimmings as needed. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet, spacing apart. You should have about 20 biscuits. Chill for 30min.

4. Preheat oven to 190°C (170°C fan) mark 5. Bake the biscuits for 10min, or until sandy to the touch. Leave to cool for 5min on the sheets, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Decorate with icing pens.

is strongly associated with Christmas, but how did that happen?

DIAL UP THE CHRISTMAS CHEER

Step into Christmas and celebrate!

Whether you’re an early bird decorator, with the tree up weeks before the 1st of December, or if you need inspiration to weave some festive magic into your home, our expert guide is here to help.

Putting unique finds at your fingertips, Wayfair is the destina tion for all things home. Whatever your Christmas style, space size, or budget, Wayfair’s Resident Style Advisor, Nadia McCowan Hill, has shared her top tips and tricks to give you plenty of decorating ideas, indoors and out.

As the countdown begins to the most wonderful time of the year, read on for the ultimate guide to give every corner of your home some festive TLC.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

Before you begin, making a general decorating plan can help to avoid a space looking busy and Christmas décor not complimenting your de sired festive look. Choosing a colour scheme or design style can help you to shape the space, with a consistent and cohesive look and feel.

There’s an abundance of choice and even if you opt for a more traditional red and white scheme, you can still give it a contemporary feeling with plenty of crisp whites and clean lines.

From pretty lilac and sugar plum, forest woodland green to berrylicious reds, there's no right or wrong way to decorate for Christmas. Just go with your gut!

ZONE IN

If you’re only planning to decorate one area or room of your home, the best space to do this is where you will be spending most of your time. That way you get maximum usage and enjoyment from your styling efforts and can soak up the festive feel.

In any room, start with deciding where to place the larger items, such as the Christmas tree and garlands, and go from there with wider acces sories. A taller tree, over 5ft, will be the natural star of the show, so you want to ensure its placement allows it to shine.

DAZZLING DISPLAYS

Creating an Instagrammable display doesn’t have to involve huge amounts of hooks, wire and DIY, with one of my favourite decorating hacks – introducing the backdrop arch! Traditionally used for events and weddings, the addition of one of these to your home decorating tool kit is sure to become your go-to wow factor for every seasonal celebration beyond Christmas, from birthdays to garden parties. Simple to put up and down, they come in assortment of shapes and styles and are light weight, making them easy to move around. One idea would be to dress with faux garlands, mixing in real eu calyptus and trailing ivy, tying hang ing decorations at various heights to match the rest of your décor.

FAUX AND FABULOUS

The beauty of an artificial tree is the variety of styles there are to choose from. Find the perfect height, shape and colour to match your scheme, with a Christmas tree that you can unbox and decorate year after year. Easy to assemble with minimal mess and no chance of falling pine needles, the focal point of your

celebrations can look just as good as the real thing.

Before settling on your tree, a few practical pointers to ensure it’s a purchase you’ll enjoy for many Christmases to come, and you get exactly what you want: For some general inspiration, Pinterest and Instagram are a brilliant source to spark ideas. The colour of the tree can change the overall look of the room. Think about where you plan to place the tree, how much space you have and check the ceiling height.

SPRUCE UP YOUR STAIRWAY

Spruced stairwell décor offers festive impact without busting the budget. While florists would charge a small fortune to set up your stairwell in style, you can decorate yours your self, easily and affordably.

Why choose between real and faux when both go together so well? Recreate the look with a base layer green garland layered up with an abundance of dried hydrangea heads, sprayed metallic, and pops of jewel-coloured foliage, finished with a dusting of micro-LED fairy lights. This luxe look works perfectly in a hallway setting, totally transforming a staircase with an Instagrammable display.

SIMPLE SWAPS

There are lots of smaller changes you can make in other rooms of your home, making them feel extra special for the festivities. A Christmas door mat will set the scene, cute mugs for hot chocolate in the kitchen and, in the living room, cushions and throws will change up everyday look.

Upstairs, use bedding and sheets in festive colours and patterns to bring the holiday cheer to bedrooms, a lovely way to get little ones excited for the impending big day! Even the bathroom can be given a nod to the season, swapping your hand towels for some Christmas-themed designs.

OUTSIDE IN

Outdoor decorations and window displays will give your guests a warm welcome, whilst spreading some Christmas cheer to the local neigh bourhood and passersby.

Lights will add instant sparkle, whilst being an easy and effortless addition to add some ambience. There are several styles of Christmas lights meant to be used specifically to decorate your outdoor spaces, in cluding icicle lights, solar string lights and lights meant for lining pathways.

For a bigger, statement outdoor display, choose oversized decora tions for maximum impact. Inflatable characters, oversized nutcrackers, outdoor nativity scenes and life-size sleighs are just some of the options –you can really have some fun and get creative in your outdoor space for your very own magical, and memora ble garden grotto.

For your one stop shop of Christ mas decorating ideas and inspira tion for every room in your home, shop online at Wayfair.co.uk.

WINTER GARDENING

As temperatures drop, taking care of our gardens might not be at the forefront of our minds. However, Dobbies Garden Cen tre says that winter shouldn’t be a time of gardening shut down and, in fact, there are jobs to be done that will prep our outdoor spaces for the new year.

INDOORS

Pot up Amaryllis bulbs for flowering over the festive period, moving bowls of earlier planted fragrant Hyacinths or Narcissus Paper Whites to a brighter position to grow on for Christmas flower colour.

TUBS AND BASKETS

November is a great time to plant winter bedding. Pansies, Violas and winter flowering Heathers are all proven winners.

Plant with ruby red Skimmia, Hellebore (Christmas Rose), winter flowering Viburnum and trailing Ivy for a seasonal look.

Protect any prized outdoor plants and containers by lifting them off the ground with pot-feet to help prevent waterlogging during the winter months.

BEDS AND BORDERS

Tulip bulbs are best planted in November, so get them in now for a great display during May & June. Combine with drifts of winter

MAGICAL POINSETTIAS

Tips

hardy bedding plants for a colour ful spring display.

Cut back summer-flowering shrubs such as Buddleia and Lav atera by half to prevent wind rock and give evergreen hedges their final trim for a neat, crisp finish.

Plant new hedges, such as Beech, Hawthorn and Privet. It’s also the best time to fill gaps and rejuvenate a hedge with fresh plants.

GARDEN TIDY UP

Clean, oil and sharpen garden tools, and book the lawn mower in for its winter service.

Cover garden furniture with winter covers to protect from heavy rain.

Clear fallen leaves from the gar den pond to protect wildlife and from paths and patios to reduce slippery algae forming.

For the benefit of garden wildlife, leave some areas of the garden untouched as a winter sanctuary for insects and hibernat ing hedgehogs.

LAWN

Rake up fallen leaves to prevent them smothering and eventually killing off your grass. Mix into your compost heap, or store in a separate pen for rotting down into leaf-mould.

Scarify established lawns to re move dead thatch, which can stifle

growth in the winter months. Spike the surface with a fork or lawn aerator and apply lawn dressing to help improve drainage.

GARDEN BIRDS

One of the joys of winter is watch ing our colourful garden birds, so reliant on the food and fresh water we put out to sustain them through the winter months.

Position feeders as close to the house as possible, using a variety of seeds and nuts to attract a wide range of birds to your garden. Once they find you, they will be come daily visitors, sheltering from the worst of the weather in your trees, shrubs and hedges.

Put up nest boxes to entice them to stay in readiness for the new spring season.

For more gardening tips visit www.dobbies.com

In the UK, poinsettias have become as entwined with Christmas as holly and mistletoe. Yet poinsettias are actually sub-tropical plants, native to Central America and Mexico, requiring temperatures of between 10 and 21 degrees centigrade to survive.

The bright red ‘flowers’ are really bracts, surrounding the real flowers, which are tiny and insignificant. They are notoriously difficult to persuade to flower again but it is possible!

If you want to try this, fertilize the plant once a month then cut back the stems in February to promote new growth. In May repot it to a larger container.

From late September to 1st December cover the plant between 6pm and 8am as poinsettias need long periods of darkness in order to persuade the bracts to turn red. Around December 1st you should have a beautiful flowering poinsettia. But if this sounds too much like hard work...well, you can always buy another one!

HELP REDUCE ENERGY COSTS WITH THERMOS ROOF

With most of us facing rising energy bills, why not reduce these costs and save money instantly with a Thermos Roof insulation system in your conservatory. Here they explain more.

Conservatories are a great space to enjoy whilst looking out onto your garden. They are bright, spacious and give you a great sense of closeness to the outdoors. However, as most conservatory owners will know, whilst they bring all of those benefits, it is usually shortlived and can only be enjoyed for two or three months of the year, the rest of those months being either freezing cold or blisteringly hot.

At Thermos Roof, we have been insulating conservatory roofs since 2005 for two main reasons: to increase its insulating performance and enhance its internal aesthetic appearance.

Experience will have shown you that in winter, heat is sucked out of your room and into the conservatory as soon as you open the door. During the summer, it becomes a dazzling sauna that’s so hot you need a fan to cool you down. At Thermos Roof, we can transform your conservatory from a room you barely use, into a space you can enjoy all year round as the temperature is comfortable and constant. You will even be able to watch TV or use a computer without sunglasses.

What is most impressive is that we can do this all in one day! With no mess!

We retain your existing polycarbonate or glass roof and insulate it from the inside, finishing it in an attractive gloss white tongue and groove PVC cladding that matches the rest of your conservatory construction. The materials we use are lightweight;

therefore, no roof strengthening is required, no planning application is necessary and no long periods of mess and upheaval in your home. In addition to this, the look and finish of your Thermos Roof will be as fresh in 10 years as it is today.

The performance of the lightweight insulation system will equal that of vastly more expensive options, with less mess and waste and less time to install, saving you thousands of pounds and allowing you to enjoy your conservatory immediately.

We can install a Thermos Roof to conservatories of any size or shape, transforming them into a flowing extension of your living space wherein the external weather conditions do not dictate its use; it will become warm in winter and cool in summer.

In addition to the above benefits, our team will eliminate mould and condensation, reduce rain, noise and serve to cover up an unsightly dirty roof. The gloss white finish will make it brighter

in the evenings by reflecting light and will give your conservatory that WOW factor, making it a great place to relax or work.

All installations come with a five-year warranty. We guarantee that you will be amazed by both the improved appearance and the insulating performance of your new roof.

We offer a free quotation service for the installation of your Thermos Roof and, should you require it, we can also undertake maintenance works to repair or replace gutters, fascias, soffits, window sills, roof panels and leaking roofs.

Please give us a call today on 01670 828 695 to start the ball rolling to making full use of your Conservatory!

www.thermosroof.co.uk

IT CAN BE VERY EXPENSIVE NOT TO USE A SOLICITOR

by Jacqueline Emmerson of Emmersons Solicitors

At Emmersons Solicitors we take part in numerous free wills events for charities. We have to limit the number of clients coming in to see us using these schemes otherwise we would be inundated. It is actually a lot of work for our staff but we feel that we ought to take part in order to give something back to society. The charities hope that clients will leave them some money in their will or make a donation during their lifetime. We obviously have to make it clear to clients that they are under no obligation to do so.

The general idea is that we only draft simple wills and anything that is more complicated a client will pay for. Of course we take our clients through a detailed fact find so that we can advise them as to the type of will they require. It may be necessary to re-arrange the way they own their home, which is actually a conveyancing procedure. It is very cost effective and a fraction of the cost of usual conveyancing matters. Or we may need to include a trust within the will. There are many variations on the theme.

Some clients can see the value of what we are able to offer them. Others simply do not.

“So Mr Smith that will cost you £250.00 but it means that your partner and the children from your previous relationship will be protected.”

“But my will is simple, why do I have to pay that. No, I’m not paying.”

And with that off Mr Smith went, back home to his girlfriend Erin saying that it’s ridiculous, she agreed with him. Fast forward two years and Danny Smith has a heart attack and dies. He’s only 39.

We deal with a lot of sudden deaths in this age group. I lost five friends aged 39-44 when I was 38. I remember being shocked but my vicar told me that this is the first peak in deaths, the next is late fifties to early sixties. Frightening stuff!

Anyway, back to Danny, Erin rang me and advised me that he had died. She was very distressed; the mother of his children had been on the phone to say that the house would have to be sold as the children were Danny’s next of kin. She also wanted the children to have Danny’s savings and pension. Did Danny make a will with you she asked, no I reminded her he didn’t want to pay, he thought it was too expensive. She started to cry.

I established that the home in which she and Danny lived was still in his sole name. He also had £70,000 in savings, all in accounts in his sole name. Danny also had an old works pension but as he had been self employed for quite a few years he hadn’t paid anything further into a pension. Searches of the National Will Register and of many solicitors in the area drew a blank. There was no will.

So I thought I would use the Inheritance (Provision for

Family and Dependants) Act. In this case the couple had to have lived together for at least two years and Erin had to be able to prove a financial need. The starting point in a case like this is to try to negotiate with the other branch of the family. Unfortunately Danny had left the mother of his children, Amy, when he had started to have an affair with Erin. Amy was therefore in no mood to negotiate.

Danny’s pension provider agreed to split the benefits under the pension between the children and Erin. The children would receive a maintenance payment until they finished full time education. But Erin was still about to be made homeless. She either had to walk away or fight through the courts.

How much do you think it costs to fight a case like this in the court system? The answer is about £10,000. £10,000 because Danny wanted to save £250.00. And how long do you think it takes? At the moment about 18 months to 2 years. That is a lot of uncertainty and stress to deal with. Would Erin even be guaranteed a win? There is no way a judge would give her all of the house if the equity was far higher than the £70,000 in savings, which of course it was.

So now Erin was left to find thousands of pounds in order to fight for her home. She received some money but not nearly enough to allow her to stay in her home. What a mess. I can tell you that the competing rights of children from a former relationship and co-habitees or spouses means that any will drafted to cover the situation will not be simple. It requires planning, the correct use of pensions, life assurance policies, ownership of a house and the arrangement of investments. As there is clearly no escape from our eventual death why would you want to put your partner and children through an expensive, stressful fight.

If you don’t know how much to leave to your partner or your children then why not book an appointment so that we can discuss options with you. The appointment is free of charge, we do however charge you for drafting a will if one is necessary. We also offer a FREE review of your existing will. Many of our clients benefit from regular reviews of their wills as their circumstances change. In many cases no change is made and there is no fee to pay. We find that this offers our clients peace of mind.

I know you will say you are busy, but as someone who took far too long to write my own will I can vouch for the fact that it was a huge weight off my mind when I got round to it. You don’t even have to leave your office, we can offer you a Teams or telephone appointment if you wish.

If you would like any help to avoid a situation like Erin’s then please don’t hesitate to contact me on 0191 2846989 or enquiries@emmersons-solicitors.co.uk

A brand new, free, interactive Roman-themed trail is now live in and around Wallsend town centre.

Using augmented reality (AR), app users can search for ten hidden Roman characters at various locations including Richardson Dees Park, the Customer First Centre and Segedunum Roman Fort.

The trail is self-led with fun animations and the app lets people know when they are close to the virtual Romans with on-screen prompts. Locations are shown as an orange circle on the GPS-enabled map and visiting each character reveals a fun fact.

People can walk around and interact with the Romans and capture photos and videos through the app. A virtual trophy is awarded once all ten Roman characters have been discovered. More detailed information and instructions can be found on the LetsARgo app within the homepage and ‘how to use’ section.

Councillor Carl Johnson, Deputy Mayor of North Tyneside and Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and Events, said: “It’s exciting to see new technologies being used to entertain visitors to the borough and encourage people to explore our town centres. We’re using augmented reality to bring history to life in such a

fun way and we hope to develop more trails in the near future.”

The Roaming Romans trail, which is helping to celebrate the 1900th anniversary of Hadrian’s Wall, is organised by North Tyneside Council and supported by the North of Tyne Combined Authority.

The app, produced by north east digital agency MAADIGITAL, who specialise in apps, augmented reality, 3D design and video, uses the latest AR technology and may not be compatible with older mobile phones.

Download the app from the Play Store or the App Store. You can search for LetsARgo in your app store.

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.

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

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.

A GOOD READ

THE INK BLACK HEART

by Robert Galbraith

When frantic, dishevelled Edie Ledwell appears in the office begging to speak to her, private detective, Robin Ellacott doesn’t know quite what to make of the situation. The co-creator of a popular cartoon, The Ink Black Heart, Edie is being persecuted by a mysterious online figure who goes by the pseudonym of Anomie. Edie is desperate to uncover Anomie’s true identity.

Robin decides that the agency can’t help with thisand thinks nothing more of it until a few days later, when she reads the shocking news that Edie has been tasered and then murdered in Highgate Cemetery, the location of The Ink Black Heart.

Robin and her business partner Cormoran Strike become drawn into the quest to uncover Anomie’s true identity. But with a complex web of online aliases, business interests and family conflicts to navigate, Strike and Robin find themselves embroiled in a case that stretches their powers of deduction to the limitsand which threatens them in new and horrifying ways.

A gripping, fiendishly clever mystery.

ONE DAY IN DECEMBER

by Josie Silver

It’s the time of year for a feel-good romantic novel, one that can be enjoyed curled up under a blanket with a nutmeg-spiced hot chocolate.

Laurie is unlucky in love and stuck in a career rut. One day she is sitting on a bus when she spots a man reading at the bus stop. He looks up, their eyes meet and somewhere there is a spark. Laurie can’t stop thinking about him, wondering if they will ever meet. Her best friend and roommate Sarah is Laurie’s opposite. She introduces Jack, her new boyfriend to Laurie, anxious that they will hit it off except... her boyfriend is the man from the bus, the guy that Laurie has been dreaming about. No surprises here...classic romantic chick-lit so far.

Cue heartbreak and hiccups, and the quest not to hurt a friend while pursuing your own ‘happily ever after’. It’s not a typical love story. It’s told both from Laurie and Jack’s perspectives, with the reader privy to their thoughts and feelings. It has all the nostalgia (and a few of the cliches) of a Richard Curtis film, but the trio of central characters clearly care deeply about each other and this gives the story its heart.

ACT OF OBLIVION

by Robert Harris

1660. Colonel Edward Whalley and his son-in-law, Colonel William Goffe, cross the Atlantic. They are on the run and wanted for the murder of Charles I. Under the provisions of the Act of Oblivion, they have been found guilty in absentia of high treason.

In London, Richard Nayler, secretary of the regicide committee of the Privy Council, is tasked with tracking down the fugitives. He’ll stop at nothing until the two men are brought to justice. A reward hangs over their heads - for their capture, dead or alive.

Act of Oblivion is an epic journey across continents, and a chase like no other. It is the thrilling new novel by Robert Harris.

A BOY CALLED CHRISTMAS

by Matt Haig

This enthralling tale tells the story of Father Christmas as a boy. It’s touching, funny and packed with memorable characters

Nikolas and his lumberjack father Joel are poor. Miika (a mouse) is his Nikolas’ only friend. In his whole life Nikolas has only received two Christmas presents: a sleigh and a turnip doll.

Then Anders the Hunter comes to recruit Joel to work on a mission for the King. If they can prove the existence of Elves they will be rewarded handsomely.

Keen to improve their circumstances, Joel heads off, leaving Nikolas to be looked after by his horrible Aunt Carlotta.

When Joel doesn’t return Nikolas begins to worry and eventually sets out with Miika on the long and treacherous journey to find his father.

Along the way there is Elf Village, a kidnapped elf, a naughty Truth Pixie that likes to watch people’s heads explode, and an unpleasant Troll named Sebastian. There is also of course, a flying reindeer. Haig does not disappoint with the ending, explaining how Nikolas finally finds his purpose, by becoming Father Christmas.

A Boy Called Christmas is the perfect festive story to read to children on the run-up to Christmas. As a bonus it is beautifully illustrated by Chris Mould. One you will return to each Christmas.

To buy these books online while supporting your local independent bookshop, visit: uk.bookshop.org/shop/abcmagazines