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RETIREMENT

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CONTENTS

4 Busy doing Nothing

WELCOME TO RETIREMENT TODAY MAGAZINE

A few years ago, Mike Francis took the decision to retire.

In this issue he shares his experience with readers and offers some advice for anyone contemplating retirement.

6 The London 1948 Olympic Games This year the largest sporting event in the world returns to the UK. We look back at when London last hosted the games in 1948.

8 Secret Britain Often in the more remote corners of the countryside, a wealth of stunning landscapes and habitats can be found.

Discover some of Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best kept secrets.

4 8

17 Perfect Stay Hotel review. Our writer travels to Cornwall to experience the luxury spa destination at The Cornwall Estate and Spa.

Cover images: Bottom Left: Dunmore Pineapple, Stirling Photography: Chris Coe Taken from Secret Britain, by kind permission of New Holland Publishers Bottom Right: Summer Vegetable Skewers Taken from Summer Days & Balmy Nights, By kind permission of Ryland Peters and Small Middle Right: Š )NTERNATIONAL Olympic Committee Taken from The Games: Britianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Olympic and Paralympic Journey to London 2012 by kind permission of Wiley publishers

s 0Ublished by:Amra Media Solutions Ltd The Old Lavender Mill 46a Brook Street Aston Clinton Buckinghamshire HP22 5ES

19 Out and About Events taking place throughout the country.

22

20 Subscription Subscribe and have Retirement Today delivered direct to your door.

22 Footloose in London Debra Rixon and her husband have been making walking ďŹ lms for over ten years, both in the UK and abroad. Read about how they trailed through London, taking in the most popular sights and tourist spots.

24 Competitions Your chance to win tickets for the theatre, an exhibition, and a forest adventure, plus books and DVD.

26 Summer days and Balmy Nights Recipes for simple summer food inspired by Mediterranean shores

s 4EL s &AX s %MAIL info@amramedia.co.uk s WWW RETIREMENT TODAY CO UK s $ESIGNED BY Tom Evans Design All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher.

The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Although every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information and the advertisements contained within the magazine, the publishers cannot accept any liability.

Retirement Today would be pleased to receive your articles and photographs for possible publication. Although all reasonable care will be taken the magazine can assume no responsibility and contributors are advised to retain a copy.

26

29

Image courtesy of Ryland Peters & Small

29 Rehoming a pet when an owner dies Read about animals change of behaviour following the death of a companion and also how pets can be cared for when you no longer can.

WIEN24 PAG

30 Charity News Read what is happening within the world of charity.

34 Grey Hairs Regular columnist Robert Grey highlights the new format of the Pension Statement forecast.

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BUSY Available with Back Saver Kit for pitch mark repair and ball and marker lifting For products that really work visit www.northcroftgolf.com for more information and a full video presentation or call 01488 685038

few and spending the day in bed until 4pm only gets you grumpy and bedsores. Like everything else in life you only get out what you put in. So put in lots!

Treat every day as a new adventure. At work your day was repetitive, now’s your chance to break out of the mould. Do something completely different from yesterday and tomorrow.

Build, demolish, join, meet and attend, these are all actions you should consider doing at some time, shuffled around the week to keep spontaneity going. Meeting people suddenly assumes greater significance when you’re left high and dry on your little sand bank with nothing to do. The background buzz of wall to wall work, interchange of ideas, jokes, arguments, drinks down the pub, has disappeared and needs replacing with new faces, trips to the country, walks in the town, evening classes, clubs and hobbies.

I live in London, worked in London, never really knew London, not when I was rushing several hundred feet below to the office.

Now as a retired tourist, I’ve cased Sherlock Holmes’ joint, splashed out at the Aquarium, breezed by boat down to Greenwich, walked warily in the steps of Jack the Ripper and patrolled Constable country. The more doors you open the more there are to knock on.Whether you live in Gravesend or Goole, Bridlington or Bristol the principle’s just the same.

Busy doing nothing 4

A few years ago I took a decision and along with the money scuttled deep into the long grass of retirement. There may be others teetering on the brink of making a similar journey and just need a few facts straightened out first which I, from my privileged position knee deep in the long grass, I live in may be able to provide.

London, worked in Hours to spend who have withdrawn our labour find London, We it easier to talk in hours than other units never really of time. Ask us the day or week and we knew London, will scratch our forelocks, if we still have not when I them, furrow our brow and plunge deep was rushing into thought. Hours are generally easier to several remember because they have just happened. )N RETIREMENT THERE ARE MORE OF hundred feet them to fill every year. Talking to the below to the flowers even if you have a very capacious office herbacious border will only while away a

RETIREMENT

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doing nothing

by Mike Francis

Guilt

Finance

Some people get the notion that when they retire theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be racked with guilt toasting their feet on a roasting ďŹ re while everyone else is slogging it through the fog. Think back though. You did all this for a major part of your life sometimes in far worse conditions. In smog when the buses couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t run and you had to walk home with a scarf over your mouth and the only thing to show for it was a dirty tidemark. Throughout the three day week when London went to work without light or heat and civil servants were given a candle to keep out the cold. You endured all this, you worked for your retirement. Now go out and enjoy it. Guilt need never enter your head.

One of the biggest worries refugees from work have to face is the fear of poverty. Without the prop of a salary dropping into your currrent account every month your rosy ďŹ nances lack a bit of colour and certainty. But the futureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not so black. Presumably you are going to acquire a nest egg of a certain size otherwise you wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be thinking of taking early leave of work. This may be in the form of a lump sum pay out or through diligent investment on your part, a pension scheme, investments, and so on. Some of your money should be used to pay off credit card balances as soon as you can because these are expensive drains on your resources. Go through your monthly expenses and check out where you can save, what you can cut out. You will be surprised how beneďŹ cial a detailed trawl through your monthly statement can be. Commuting costs can be saved at a stroke, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have lower laundry bills and less fancy restaurant dining. You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be bombarded with a high tax demand either although telephone bills, at least in the short term, will increase as you try to keep in touch with the outside world.

When you do your ďŹ nal estimate youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be surprised how lean your expenses can be.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a commonly held assumption that workers who choose to retire early generally make a better ďŹ st of it than those who have retirement foisted on them at the appointed age. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all down to attitude. Some people need the template of work, they ďŹ nd it impossible to adapt to leisure and view looming retirement as something to be postponed as long as possible and then only endured like having deep root canal treatment on your teeth. If you say to yourself â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;my life is my work, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve no outside interests, Meeting people suddenly Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not going to enjoy assumes greater signiďŹ cance retirementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, then you might when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re left high and dry as well pull down the blinds on your little sand bank with right now. Then there are who adopt a positive nothing to do those stance. Regimented at work most of their life, they see retirement as a great opportunity to break rank, have a ďŹ eld day and realise ambitions theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been secretly HARBOURING SINCE THE AGE OF Learning the piano and crossing America by motorbike will do for a start they say; For myself I always wanted to have my feet rubbed, so every month a reďŹ&#x201A;exologist visits and afterwards I feel like bouncing over the uneven pavement like a trampolining teenager. Keeping ďŹ t certainly helps to keep your positive attitude up to scratch. Playing tennis is a great help for concentration and timing, swimming the perfect relaxation of all known limbs cranked down to your own gentle pace. I try and do both as often as I can.

Health When people retire they get ill, usually because they have plenty of time to think about what they have, might have or would like to have. All manner of diseases suddenly manifest themselves in the head, small blemishes become contagious diseases.

Most are imagined and the sooner you get out for a brisk walk or hit some sort of ball about the better. The simple philosophy of surviving retirement is to idle with purpose and keep busy doing nothing Q

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Keeping ďŹ t

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The London 1948 This year the largest sporting event in the world returns to the UK for the first time since 1948. This article looks back at when London last hosted the Olympic Games.

N *UNE WITH THE WORLD hurtling towards another global conflict, the IOC voted to decide the venue for the 1944 Olympic Games.

London fought off the claims of Rome, Detroit, Budapest, Lausanne, Helsinki, Montreal and Athens to secure the vote. Six long years later, however – after the 1944 Games had been cancelled – with the end to hostilities mercifully in sight, much of Europe lay in ruins. The IOC quite sensibly set about starting a new bidding process to find the Host City for the 1948 Games. All previous bets were off.

Very few nations or cities in warravaged Europe were in a position to contemplate staging the event.

In America the President of the American Olympic Association (AOA), Avery Brundage, who was also Vice President of the IOC, initially offered the opinion that only an American city, untouched by conflict, could realistically contemplate staging an Olympic Games. Many agreed with him, and as if on cue Baltimore, Minneapolis, Philadelphia and Los Angeles all immediately announced their candidature, along with Lausanne from neutral Switzerland.

Arguably they had the infrastructure, facilities and resources to take on the Games and see it through.

In London, officials of the British Olympic Authority (BOA) viewed things very differently.

They objected that their great city had helped out the Olympic -OVEMENT IN AND HAD WON the vote for the 1944 Games fair and square. Britain had stood alone in the war for a critical period; did it not deserve first crack at a peacetime Olympic Games? King George

I The official poster of the 1948 Olympic Games. London agreed to host the ‘Austerity Games’ despite still suffering the after-effects of the Second World War. © 2011 International Olympic Committee

The London 1948 Olympic Games

Fans enjoy the Athletics action at a full Wembley Stadium during the 1948 Games.There hardly seems a spare seat, and notice how there is no roof over the far straight of the famous venue. © Mark Kauffman/Time Life Pictures/ Getty Images

6

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VI was keen as well, sensing the challenge of holding the Olympic Games would galvanise Britain.

He believed the Games offered the perfect opportunity to restore morale in the weary country and to signal a return to ‘normality’ across the globe. Quickly the momentum for a new British bid started to build. In October 1945 Lord Burghley, now chairman of the BOA met with the President of the IOC in Stockholm to discuss London’s possible selection.

As the official report for the 1948 Games observes, ‘an investigating committee was set up by the British Olympic Council [sic] to work out in some detail the possibility of holding the Games. After several meetings they recommended to the Council that the Lord Mayor of London should be invited to apply for the allocation of the Olympic Games of 1948.’

Sigfrid Edström, the President of the IOC, had always been in favour of Britain staging the 1948 Games.

He was also keen that the first Games after the war be slightly different – a commemoration of those who had perished so recently. The priority was simply to get as many nations as possible gathered under the same roof, and to let the unique atmosphere of the Olympic Games inspire the youth of the world again. Brundage was quickly convinced by Edström’s enthusiasm for London and changed his position.

Britain’s determination also struck a chord with IOC candidates generally.

There was a widespread feeling that London, a symbol of democracy and freedom throughout the years of conflict, would be the most fitting venue for the first post-war world gathering. In practical terms it would certainly be the easiest for most hardpressed nations to travel to. The IOC duly organised a postal vote in March 1946, with London emerging as the overwhelming choice. Slowly, the socalled Austerity Games began to take shape. Germany and Japan were not permitted to compete and Russia,

Olympic Games Managing Director of Wembley Ltd. He found various ways of making it pay â&#x20AC;&#x201C; mainly through greyhound racing, the formation of a speedway team and staging Rugby League Cup Finals. He also established two successful ice hockey teams, the Wembley Lions and the Wembley Monarchs, at the Empire Pool.

Although no new venues were to be built and expenditure was to be kept to a minimum,Wembley needed APPROXIMATELY a OVER TWO million pounds in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s money) for essential repairs and the installation OF A M CINDER RUNNING TRACK 4HE government were not prepared to spend such money, while its citizens still endured strict rationing and large areas of Britain were being rebuilt. The all-powerful Elvin soon managed to persuade his Wembley Stadium Management Board to put up the money, offset against future ticket sales. It was the key moment in deciding whether the Games would take place, and King George 6) SHOWED HIS GRATITUDE IN BY rewarding Elvin with a knighthood.

Elvin really was an extraordinarily adroit mover behind the scenes.

Somehow he persuaded Arthur J. 2ANK TO PAY a A MASSIVE SUM in 1948) for exclusive ďŹ lm rights to make the ofďŹ cial ďŹ lm of the 1948 Games. This amounted to three per cent of the total budget and was an early indication of the Olympic Gamesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commercial potential. Rank, the shrewdest of businessmen himself, had also done his sums: he knew he could make it pay as well. Unlike the Leni Riefenstahl masterpiece Olympia, which appeared 18 months AFTER THE "ERLIN 'AMES 2ANK S people had the ofďŹ cial Technicolor ďŹ lm, The Glory of Sport, showing in all his cinemas two weeks after the end of the Games. Rank also had separate crews ďŹ lming in black and white to turn around twice weekly news packages to show in his cinemas before the regular feature.

Elvin was a tough practical operator, but he was also a sports fan.

His enthusiasm shone through when he was quoted in the News of the World on the eve of competition, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Cannot everyone in the world see that even in far-away Moscow

it is better that men should run and jump against each other rather than to blow each other to pieces on the battleďŹ eld? The approach is QUITE DIFFERENT FROM THE "ERLIN Games. We want to see the best men win, no matter where they come from and who they represent.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Such an approach was genuine and reďŹ&#x201A;ected in the responses of spectators and organisers alike. Just staging the Games seemed reward enough for Britain, evidenced on the last but one day of the Athletics when the 4 x M 2ELAY SQUAD APPEARED TO HAVE won Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ďŹ rst gold medal of the Games. The USA had actually won the race by ďŹ ve yards, but they were mysteriously disqualiďŹ ed for a faulty baton change. The British quartet thus accepted the gold medals on the podium in front of a very subdued home crowd before the decision was ofďŹ cially reversed three days later.

Impressed, the New York Times reported the following day that: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The judicial victory awarded the British sprinters was the ďŹ rst time the British crowd had the opportunity to cheer a triumph by their countrymen.

But the Britons disagreed with the judges. They did not want to win even one victory that way. They gave their loudest cheer to the disqualiďŹ ed Americans â&#x20AC;Ś that is sportsmanship at its best.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; It was a far cry from the ANTAGONISM OF THE ,ONDON Games, a reďŹ&#x201A;ection of changing ATTITUDES THAT YEARS HAD WROUGHT Two world wars had forged a deeper relationship, and a new and proper perspective had been rediscovered Q The Games: Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Olympic and Paralympic Journey to London 2012, edited by Andrew Longmore is out now for ÂŁ29.99. It is one of nine beautifully illustrated books being published by Wiley, an ofďŹ cial publisher to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The London 1948 Olympic Games

although it had begun competing internationally in other sports, chose not to travel. They did send a large team of observers, however, to make notes at all the events.

Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s candidature wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t entirely without its critics at home.

The London Evening Standard delivered a critical editorial, complaining that, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;a people which has had its housing programme and food imports cut â&#x20AC;Ś may be forgiven for thinking that a full year of expensive preparation for the reception of an army of foreign athletes verges on the border of excessiveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Generally, however, the British public seemed glad to have something positive to focus on.

The BOA formed an Organising Committee. Three or four of its members were very much â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;usual suspectsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;: Lord Burghley, for example (Eton, Cambridge, an Olympic gold medallist from 1928 and a former MP) was a natural choice as Chairman of the Organising Committee, while Colonel Evan Hunter OBE proved an unsung hero as Secretary, a role in which he had served the BOA since 1925. Hunter, a career soldier who had fought in both world wars, had organised the British Empire Games at the White City Stadium, London, IN !UGUST AND TOOK A SANGUINE and relaxed view of affairs. Nothing could faze him. New Zealander !RTHUR 0ORRITT A M BRONZE medallist in Athletics at the Paris 1924 Olympic Games, had settled in London where he became surgeon to the Royal Household. He was placed in charge of Olympic Medical Services while Harold Abrahams, who beat Porritt at the 1924 Games, was appointed Treasurer to the Games Committee. It was a rock solid team combining experience and inďŹ&#x201A;uence. However, history shows that in delivering something as big as the Olympic Games you also need somebody who thinks outside the box, an entrepreneur who sees the bigger picture, and 1948 was to be no exception.

The maverick this time was another brilliant self-made entrepreneur, Sir Arthur Elvin. He had rescued Wembley Stadium from INSOLVENCY IN BECOMING THE

Building work takes place at Wembley before the start of the 1948 Games with the laying of the track.The Stadium was to prove one of the great homes for Olympic Athletesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; feats with the multi-medal glory of Dutch superstar Fanny Blankers-Koen. Š William Vanderson/Fox Photos/Hulton Archive/Getty Images RETIREMENT

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People like nurse Leah, 58, and her artist husband David, 63.

They

wanted a happy retirement together but Leah became crippled with arthritis and cannot walk. David is dedicated to his wife and cares for her full time. But, the loss of earned income has been devastating, and they are poverty-stricken.

Despite state benefits, sickness, disability and old age can still mean a life of awful hardship. For Leah and David and hundreds like them, The National Benevolent Charity can help.

Please support the 1812-2012 Bi-Centenary Appeal Donations should be sent to:

The National Benevolent Charity Peter HervĂŠ House, Eccles Court, Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8EH For more info visit www. t h e n b c . o r g . u k or telephone 01666 505500 Patron: HRH The Prince of Wales Registered Charity Number 212450

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Secret Britain

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Discover some of the best of Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most famous, fascinating and beautiful places, such as the Welsh village of Portmeirion, and some less well known landscapes and habitats like Dennis Seversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; House in London

Derek Jarmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden Kent Best known as an artist and ďŹ lm maker, Derek Jarman (1942â&#x20AC;&#x201C;94) came to this remote, some would say bleak, corner of Kent during the last years of his life. Round his tiny cottage, which faces out across the vast sea of stones toward the huge futuristic power station, he created a remarkable contemporary garden.

If you decide to visit, you must divest your mind of the normal conceptions of gardens and gardening, for Derek Jarman created his patch of green from objects picked up on the beach, but the resulting garden is all the more interesting as a result. More like a sculpture or installation art, the garden mixes found objects with stones and a few salt-tolerant plants.

Secrets Derek Jarmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden, Prospect Cottage, Dungeness, Kent.

While youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re there Ride on the wonderful narrow gauge Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway, which takes you miles across the unspoilt marshlands (rhdr.org.uk).

Secret place to stay George Hotel, Lydd. (thegeorgelydd.com).

A real gem.

Dennis Seversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; House London

) % " " ' $ *+,-.+

Secret Britain

For 200 years , The National Benevolent Charity has been a lifeline to people who have fallen into poverty and distress and who have nowhere else to turn.

RT/+6/12

This strange little house is in SpitalďŹ elds, one of the most unspoilt areas of early 18th-century London. Here a grid of streets retains their magniďŹ cent door cases and much of their interior ďŹ replaces and panelling. They are known as silk weaversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; houses because they were built by immigrant silk weavers, who settled in London to escape persecution in France. Typically the attics of the houses were organized to ďŹ t their silk looms.

Most of the houses are still privately owned, but one can be visited.

It was formerly lived in by Denis Severs (1948â&#x20AC;&#x201C;99), an American with a passion for all things English.When he retired to the house he wanted it to appear as if an 18th-century family was still living there.

To achieve this, there is no electric light, the rooms are left cluttered and dusty, in some rooms the plaster is crumbling and on a dining table can usually be seen what looks like the remains of a half-ďŹ nished meal. To preserve the atmosphere, visitors are not allowed to talk while visiting the house.

Visiting Dennis Seversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; House feels like time travelling to an 18th-centur y home whose inhabitants have just gone to bed.

Denis Severs House 18 Folgate Street, SpitalďŹ elds, London E1 6BX (dennissevershouse.co.uk).

Opening times and prices vary so check the website.

No children.

While youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re there Visit nearby SpitalďŹ elds church, the masterpiece of Nicolas Hawksmoor, who rebuilt many of Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s churches after the Great Fire.

Secret place to eat Fazenda, SpitalďŹ elds 020 7375 0577. Authentic Italian; reasonable prices.

Stephensonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cottage Northumberland It is difďŹ cult to see how the Industrial Revolution could have been quite as world-changing as it eventually was WITHOUT 'EORGE 3TEPHENSON n YET HIS ORIGINS were extraordinarily humble. Visitors to the tiny isolated cottage on the banks of the Tyne where he was born will justly ďŹ nd it hard to believe that the little boy who grew up here at the end of the 18th century was destined to take the world by storm and â&#x20AC;&#x201C; via the steam engine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to change the whole nature and pace of transport forever.

To get to the tiny stone-built cottage, go to Wylam, a pretty, largely stonebuilt village that straddles the Tyne, about 19km (12 miles) inland from Newcastle.

5NTIL THE S the Tyne was so dirty that few if any salmon were able to penetrate as far as Wylam, let alone reach the spawning beds further upstream. But a huge cleanup means that salmon now lie regularly beneath Wylam bridge, just as they would have done when Stephenson was born here. The whole family lived in one room, but they would have enjoyed clean air and water as the house overlooked the river.

Walk half a mile from Wylam Bridge along the trackway that the great man would once have taken. It was Stephensonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rocket that launched the era of railway travel when, in September 1825, it ran from Darlington TO 3TOCKTON CARRYING PEOPLE AT A STAGGERING KM (15 miles) an hour.

Secrets George Stephensonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Birthplace, Wylam NE41 8BP (nationaltrust.org.uk) 01661 853457. Open: mid-Marâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Oct Thurâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Sun 11.00â&#x20AC;&#x201C;17.00.

Price: adult ÂŁ1.80, child 90p.

While youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re there Visit nearby Corbridge with its lovely old houses and medieval tower.

Secret place to stay Crag House Hotel, Hexham 01434 681276. Beautifully situated on an alpaca farm.

Portmeirion,Gwynedd Bright, quirky, charming, eccentric and delightful â&#x20AC;&#x201C; over the years these and many similar words have been used to describe this extraordinary village on the Welsh coast. It would take an architectural historian to understand every style and parody of style contained in a village which is essentially the lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work of one man â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the architect Clough 7ILLIAMS %LLIS n In many ways Williams-Ellis was a man too far ahead of his time. He wanted to prove that building did not necessarily ruin a beautiful place, which IS WHY HE SPENT NEARLY YEARS n BUILDING THIS VILLAGE ON THE PENINSULA he owned. With its whitewashed or pastel-coloured cottages, Portmeirion looks like something from the Mediterranean, but it does just what its architect intended it to do â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it ďŹ ts well into an area of outstanding natural beauty, surrounded as it is by gardens and woodlands and miles of beautiful beach.

Williams-Ellis was a passionate conservationist long before such things were fashionable, and he would be delighted to know that, today, the village to which he devoted his life is in the hands of a trust â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a registered charity called The Second Portmeirion Foundation, which carefully guards his legacy.

The Portmeirion Hotel lets all the cottages in the village and there are restaurants, shops and delightful walks. But perhaps Portmeirionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest claim TO FAME IS THAT IT WAS THE SETTING FOR THE CULT S 46 SERIES 4HE 0RISONER Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to believe that this is a Welsh town.

Secrets While youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re there Just enjoy the spectacular coastal walks in this lovely region.

Secret place to stay Portmeirion Hotel, Portmeiron (portmeirion-village.com).

Right in the heart of the village and remarkably unchanged since 1926.

Dunmore Pineapple Stirlingshire Just a few miles south of Stirling is one of Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most bizarre buildings â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Dunmore Pineapple.

"UILT IN AT A TIME WHEN PINEAPPLES AND OTHER exotic fruit were still rare and extremely costly, the 14-m (46-ft) high sandstone pineapple is actually a sort of gazebo â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a place where the Laird of Dunmore could look out across his gardens and land.

The pineapple is part of a walled garden and reďŹ&#x201A;ects the fact that pineapples were being grown in that garden in the 18th century â&#x20AC;&#x201C; being able to grow such exotic fruit at that time was a huge status symbol and the stone pineapple would have announced that fact to the world.The Dunmore gardens, the Pineapple and 6.5ha (16 acres) of surrounding land â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the policies, as the land is known in Scotland â&#x20AC;&#x201C; were given to the Landmark Trust by the Countess of 0ERTH IN 4HEY ARE NOW A RICH HAVEN FOR PLANTS and wildlife, including the rare great-crested newt Q

Secrets If you are really taken with the Pineapple, you can stay in it by contacting: The Landmark Trust, Shottesbrooke, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 3SW (landmarktrust.org.uk) 01628 825925.

While youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re there Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the well-signposted walk through the unspoilt local woodlands.

Secret place to stay Airth Castle, Airth (airthcastlehotel.com).

Try staying in a real ancient castle.

Taken from Secret Britain â&#x20AC;&#x201C;The Best of Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hidden Gems by Tom Quinn, published by New Holland. ISBN 978-1-84773-947-6 RETIREMENT RETIRE RET IRE MEN MENT NT

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Secret S ecret Britain Britain

Secrets

9

A

s summer starts you might be thinking about taking a bit of time out to relax and enjoy yourself. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going abroad or taking a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;staycationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, having travel insurance in place can remove some of the worry if something does go wrong. The Financial Ombudsman Service â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the free service set up to sort out problems between consumers and ďŹ nancial BUSINESSES n RESOLVED AROUND

complaints about travel insurance last year.

Retirement today spoke to the ombudsman for some top tips to ensure you have a hassle free holiday.

Holidays without the hassle

s To insure or not to insure: When youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re planning your big getaway, travel insurance may not seem that important. Tempting as it may be to make savings where you can, a good insurance policy can help you out if things go wrong. Bear in mind that travel policies can vary considerably, so check your cover. s What the EHIC is that?

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) gives you the right to healthcare in many European countries if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on a temporary visit there. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea to get a card, which is free and available through the NHS. But remember - while the EHIC will entitle you to some free or reduced price care, it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cover everything and is not an alternative to insurance. s Keep covered with credit: If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re paying for your holiday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or making some holiday purchases â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with a credit card, you could be protected legally by something CALLED SECTION OF THE #ONSUMER #REDIT !CT 3ECTION ONLY APPLIES under certain circumstances, but if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t receive the goods you paid for or what you purchased isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t of the required standard, you may be able to get your money back from your credit provider.

Holidays without the hassle

s Caravan: If you own or plan to purchase a caravan make sure you have appropriate insurance in place to cover it â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re towing a caravan check your motor insurance allows for this.

If you have a static caravan there may be security features required by you insurer, so make sure you read the policy carefully and keep the documents in a safe place.

10

s Protect yourself before you go: If you manage to snap up a last minute deal and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re taking out insurance, ask your insurer when the cover starts. Last year many of the travel insurance complaints the ombudsman saw came from consumers who had taken out cover to start on the 1st day if their holiday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which meant they didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have cancellation cover for the period before. s Have a back up plan: Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re staying at home or going abroad, it pays to have more than one source of money available. From lost wallets, to problems with plastic cards, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea to have back up funds, should something go wrong.

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going abroad, and are planning on using your card let your bank know in advance.

And itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth keeping a record of their international phone number, just in case. s Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to get in touch: If you do encounter a problem while on holiday, make sure you let your insurance company know as soon as you can.You may be required to make a police report in the country youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in, or obtain other documents, so keep a copy of your policy handy so you know what you need to make a claim if something goes wrong.

Wherever you choose to escape to this summer, we hope you have a trouble-free trip. If you have a problem, let the ďŹ nancial business know â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they should be able to sort things out for you. But if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sstill unhappy, the ďŹ nancial ombudsman may be able to help Q

You can contact the ombudsman service on 0300 123 9 123 or http://www.ďŹ nancial-ombudsman.org.uk RETIREMENT

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" MJGF XPSUI MJWJOH :PVS MFHBDZ HJGU UP 7JUBMJTF

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The Specialist Group Tour Operator 25 years of tailor-made group travel experience! Our clients come ďŹ rst!

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Thanks to you all at Simply Groups for all that you did to make our trip PERFECT, even down to the weather, well perhaps you didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have anything to with that!

But you did do a brilliant job on the rest D.M. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kent

â&#x20AC;?

For your FREE QUOTE contact: 01943 605999

www.simplygroups.co.uk info@simplygroups.co.uk RETIREMENT

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Est 1974

Swiss Travel System

Rail Holidays of the World

Ffestiniog Travel began its journey in 1974 and specialises in railway holidays around the world.

Experience classic rail journeys, scenic routes where only rail can take you, or discover some of the world’s oldest and most beautiful steam railways. We have the knowledge, expertise and passion to make your rail holiday wonderful.

• • • • •

We run 30 escorted rail holidays each year in the UK, Europe and worldwide for both rail connoisseurs and those who simply enjoy travelling by train.

An unrivalled knowledge and passion for railways around the world and their historic, pioneering, scenic and engineering value.

Signature Tours - we can create bespoke rail tours for couples or groups anywhere in the world.

Special Interest Tours - we plan and arrange group travel for parties with specific interests in history, the arts, geology, archaeology, wine, food and gardens.

As a sister company to the world famous Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways our profits support their continued preservation.

Switzerland Tourism

~ Unforgettable Rail Journeys

Christmas Market Tours by rail 2012 - for a taste of a Continental Christmas, visit the festive markets across Europe including Stralsund and Lübeck in Germany.

Christmas in the Snow - Our 2012 escorted Christmas tours include an 11-day adventure through Canada and a magical winter wonderland tour of Switzerland.

Bob Cable

Weekend City breaks by rail to popular and offbeat European destinations including Luxembourg, Maastricht, Lyon and Strasburg.

Plan ahead and pre-order our 2013 Brochure and consider booking a rail tour holiday to such destinations as Romania, Bavaria, Spain, India, Japan, and closer to home, Wales and Scotland.

To speak to our team of expert consultants or order a brochure Call: 01766 772030 Email: info@ffestiniogtravel.co.uk or visit our website at www.ffestiniogtravel.com First Floor Unit 6, Snowdonia Business Park, Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd, LL48 6LD.

Tel: 01766 772030 Fax: 01766 772049

3047

IATA

Accredited Agent

ATO L

5050

1106

Ffestiniog Travel is owned by a charitable trust and profits go to support the world famous Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways.

Welsh Highland Railway credit Roger Dimmick

Nilgiri Rack Railway, India

The World’s Railways Offer Endless Holiday Possibilities

N

ot so long ago, any mention of a rail journey conjured up thoughts of nothing more than the daily grind of the commute to work, something that was endured rather than enjoyed – an unpleasant but necessary means to an end.

Things are changing. Passengers now travel by train in the UK more than at any time in the railway’s history and, believe it or not, an important ingredient in this is travelling for pleasure, either to visit friends and relatives or, increasingly, simply riding the trains to visit new places or enjoy the scenery. Perhaps even more surprising is that an increasing number are choosing to spend their annual holidays riding the world’s trains where, once upon a time, they would have settled for a two week package to the Costas. No longer is the holiday by rail the preserve of the enthusiasts pursuing their hobby. Today’s rail travellers have a broad range of interests and come from a wide background.

What has brought this change about? It is fashionable to point to delays at airports and the general hassle involved with air travel generally but the truth goes much deeper than this. There are probably a number of issues which have influenced the trend, ranging from the introduction of Eurostar

services from London to Paris and Brussels in the nineties suddenly making it a whole lot easier to visit continental Europe through environmental issues (Eurostar proudly boasts that it is a carbon neutral mode of transport) to customers themselves aspiring to Switzerland’s Glacier Express something a little different from rarely features in mainstream brochures and their customary fortnight in the sun.

Ffestiniog Travel, the tour operating arm has suffered through adverse media coverage of the Ffestiniog Railway family, has been which has concentrated on the activities of ORGANISING SUCH HOLIDAYS SINCE LONG a tiny minority of its inhabitants. The truth before they became fashionable, but has is that it is an absolute gem of a destination remained loyal to its roots. Back then, the vision – spectacular mountain scenery coupled with was to provide holidays overseas for exactly the an interesting history, welcoming, friendly same kind of customers who enjoyed riding people and a rural life which disappeared in the Ffestiniog’s own narrow gauge trains in the rest of Europe fifty years ago. Ffestiniog North Wales. Enthusiasts were welcome Travel has teamed up with local operator My of course and still are but the Ffestiniog Romania (www.myromania.com.ro) and can Railway’s real bread and butter comes from now claim, through this partnership, to be one customers who simply enjoy soaking up the of the few specialist operators to the country. superb mountain scenery which Wales has to Nor is the expertise confined to rail travel as offer. It is no surprise perhaps that Ffestiniog the company is also able to offer other special Travel chose Switzerland as its first overseas interest holidays including culture and history, destination. Here was a country, not only with walking and wildlife. Almost all the money fantastic mountain scenery but also a superb spent on the Romania holidays go directly into Romania’s local economy – locally rail network from which to enjoy it.

Since then the repertoire has expanded to owned accommodation, restaurants, transport include not only the whole of Europe but also and so on, not forgetting local guides who worldwide destinations - Indian Hill Stations, rely on visitors for their livelihood.

It will be gathered from this that perhaps USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Peru and many more. In fact, any country which Ffestiniog Travel’s greatest strength is its has a railway running through good scenery flexibilty. Its holidays now include both those or to an interesting destination has probably that are aimed at customers with a passion received at least one Ffestiniog Travel visit. for railways (it calls these “Connoisseur Rail There are just two provisos – as a responsible Tours”) and those which cater for people tour operator, the company only visits who simply want to enjoy the rail travel destinations which are both safe and can offer experience. Yet by far the greatest number of holidays sold are its “Signature” holidays a reasonable standard of accommodation.

In recent years, the company has made where customers ask for a bespoke tailor it an objective to seek out more unusual made package to a destination or destinations destinations away from the mainstream which of their choice Q not only provide “something different” for For more information, visit the customer but, equally importantly, inject www.ffestiniogtravel.com much needed finance into the local economy. or phone 01766 772030 for a brochure.

Romania is a case in point. The country Forestry Railway at Viseu de Sus, Romania credit Ramona Cazacu.

RETIREMENT

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The World’s Railways

by Alan Heywood - Founder of Ffestiniog Travel

13

“I left my home with nothing” Third year nursing student Amy Mullins lost everything when she left the family home after experiencing domestic abuse.

She was desperate and didn’t know where to turn for help until she was put in touch with Cavell Nurses’ Trust which acted quickly to give Amy the support she urgently needed.

Amy explained: “The situation at home was very difficult and I left with nothing apart from what I was standing up in. I had no money and no job; all I had was the support of a very good friend. I felt so alone.”

Amy had worked as a health care assistant for 13 years before starting her nursing training and continued to do bank work for her former employer.

She secured funding for a deposit for rented accommodation but had no household items at all and her poor mental health meant she was unable to work.

When Cavell Nurses’ Trust heard of Amy’s plight it worked quickly to award a single grant towards the cost of essential household items. Thanks to an In Memoriam donation from the Lowe family, it was also able to offer a regular grant of £30 per week to take Amy to the end of her studies.

“The weekly grant enabled me to pay for food, electricity, gas and buy the small items I needed to enable me to live from day to day,” Amy explained.

“When I heard about the grants I felt an enormous sense of relief - it was as if a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders.

“It helped me through a very difficult time and is enabling me to complete my nursing study.

“When I’ve qualified I will support Cavell Nurses’ Trust to give back what they have given me.”

Compassion and care helped student nurse Amy continue her training

Compassion and care helped student nurse Amy continue her training

14

Vital support so Heather could keep her home

“I was overwhelmed by the support I received” Heather devoted much of her life to helping others through her work as a healthcare assistant and later as a volunteer.

Heather, 83, who is partially sighted and has diabetes, feared she would have to sell her home as she could no longer pay the service charge on her flat.

Cavell Nurses’ Trust processed her application quickly and awarded her a single grant towards the current service charge bill together with a regular grant, which has been in place since 2000.

She said:“I was overwhelmed with the support I received. It was wonderful to know I could rely on a regular sum coming in to cover the service charges.”

Cavell Nurses’ Trust – helping nurses in their hour of need There are only a small few whose lives haven’t been touched by a nurse, midwife or healthcare assistant.

These committed and compassionate men and women devote their lives to caring for others but so often are among the last to ask for help for themselves.

Nurses are the backbone of our society but they too fall victim to sickness, accidents, stress and many other problems which prevent them from working.

After a lifetime of service many find themselves in financial hardship.

Cavell Nurses’Trust (formerly known as NurseAid) is a charity that helps retired and working nurses, student nurses and midwives and healthcare assistants get the care and support they need when they fall on hard times.

Without enough nurses, midwives and healthcare assistants, patient care would be significantly compromised.

RETIREMENT

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The support we offer depends on individual circumstances but very often it only takes only a small grant or regular payments to give them the support they need to get back into the jobs they love... providing the first class care so many of us have experienced.

Our charity was established in 1915 with the public donations made following the execution of British nurse Edith Cavell during the First World War. As we approach our centenary year, we are proud to have been able to help thousands in the nursing profession in their hour of need.

We couldn’t continue with our vital work without the support of generous donors.

How you can help Cavell Nurses’ Trust With your help we can reach many more nurses, midwives and healthcare assistants in need.

Please remember us in your Will... a legacy, no matter how small, will help us continue with our important work.

We rely on donations from people like you to support the vital work we do. Your gift will be used to help nurses, midwives and healthcare assistants, giving them the support they so desperately need.

Like to know more about us or make a donation, please visit www.justgiving.com/cavellnursestrust Q

Commemorative Jersey stamps Aviation History XI

75th Anniversary of Jersey Airport Issue date 10 March 2012 Painted by Tony Theobald

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Issue date 1 June 2012 Featuring the holographic portrait ‘Equanimity’

Jersey Nature - Butterflies & Moths III Issue date 8 May 2012 Painted by William Oliver

Diamond Jubilee - Accession Issue date 6 February 2012

First Day Cover envelopes and Presentation Packs are available for all Jersey stamp issues. To view the complete range, visit www.jerseystamps.com or ask for an information pack.

www.jerseystamps.com Email: stamps@jerseypost.com or call us on 01534 516320 Write to us at Jersey Philatelic Bureau, POHQ, JERSEY, JE1 1 AB RETIREMENT

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R

elaxation might be the last thing on your mind when going into hospital, unless it is to a hospital that has been designed from ďŹ rst principles with you in mind where everyone you will meet is concerned with your welfare.

Situated on the borders of South-West London and Surrey, St Anthonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital has been providing compassionate health care for over a century! Still owned today by the Daughters of the Cross (Registerd #HARITY .O THE HOSPITAL WAS FOUNDED BY THE NUNS IN WITH THE AIM OF PROVIDING CARE FOR THE local community.

With its focus ďŹ rmly on the needs of each individual patient, St Anthonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s provides a level of care that sets it apart from other hospitals. The high speciďŹ cation of equipment and an 8 bed intensive care unit has allowed the hospital to become South Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading independent provider of major procedures as well as routine surgery.

All major specialities are available with a particular emphasis on cardiac surgery, cardiology, orthopaedics, urology, gastroenterology, colorectal, general and vascular surgery. An excellent level of stafďŹ ng includes resident anaesthetists, general medical ofďŹ cers, cardiac surgeons and on-call intensive care consultants making it possible to organise urgent admissions directly from home or from other hospitals.

With excellent transport links, high standards of nursing and a large roster of top Consultants, St Anthonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is a real gem for those seeking high quality healthcare but in a more welcoming and serene environment Q

Relax!

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going

to hospital

The hospital is an exhibitor at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 3HOW /LYMPIA AND FULL DETAILS CAN BE found at www.stanthonys.org.uk

World class healthcare with a local approach St Anthonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital combines the most advanced medical procedures and skills with the kind of personal care that many hospitals have forgotten how to provide.

We specialise in complex cardiac cases, orthopaedics, urology, vascular, breast and colorectal cancer surgery â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and in the dedicated, compassionate care of the individual.

St. Anthonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s has been established at North Cheam for over 100 years. The only independent hospital in the area to provide full intensive care, it offers a safe and secure setting for complex and routine surgery.

Side heads

St Anthonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital, North Cheam, Surrey SM3 9DW, UK Tel: 020 8337 6691 Registered Charity no: 1068661

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www.stanthonys.org.uk RETIREMENT

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PERFECT STAY This issue our writer travels to Cornwall to experience the Cornwall Estate and Spa, one of the counties leading luxury spa destinations Just a few minutes from St Austell, close to the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, the Cornwall Estate and Spa is a hotel that also includes luxury woodland holiday homes to buy and to rent. For the duration of our stay we were based in the hotel which consists of the main house with traditional bedrooms, and suites, and connected to the house is an extension with 56 Woodland rooms.

We stayed in a superior woodland room decorated in contemporary style complete with large balcony where we could relax and enjoy PANORAMIC VIEWS OF THE ACRE ESTATE 4HE HOTEL OFFERS A CHOICE of dining, the more relaxed informal Acorns Brassiere, or The Arboretum Restaurant which we opted for, offering ďŹ ne dining, with much of the menu sourcing local products.

No stay at the hotel would be complete without a visit to The Clearing Spa to completely unwind and be pampered.

Facilities include an inďŹ nity swimming pool, sauna and steam room and a state of the art ďŹ tness suite. I was met by my

instantly likeable and knowledgeable therapist Jodie who gave me a facial analysis, and talked me through the improvements that would be made with my bespoke facial using Aromatherapy Associates products, Drawing room and more attention to my skin care regime.

The hotel setting really is outstanding with many unique features to be enjoyed. For those who want to be active, there is a tennis court, woodland walks or if you want something a little less strenuous a game of croquet might just be the thing. The estate boasts a Victorian wall garden, ornamental lake, an old vinery and abundant wildlife.

The perfect time to visit Cornwall is anytime but for those who like to avoid the crowds out of season is the perfect time and The Cornwall Estate and Spa the perfect place Q Woodland rooms cost from ÂŁ89 per night including a full Cornish breakfast.

WWW THECORNWALL COM s

Woodland Room

The Diabetes Wellness News is the monthly publication of the Diabetes Research & Wellness Foundation, who fund medical research and provide educational support to people living with, or who are at risk of diabetes, to ensure they are â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Staying well until a cure is foundâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

FREE 3 ISSUES

For your 3-month FREE TRIAL OFFER please send your name and address to: Diabetes Research and Wellness Foundation FREEPOST SCE9746 Northney Marina Hayling Island, Hampshire PO11 0BR (Please note: using a stamp will reduce cost for the charity) OR email subs@drwf.org.uk quoting Free Trial OďŹ&#x20AC;er RT2012 You will receive excellent advice about diabetes and its related conditionss and help support a worthy cause at the same time.

www.drwf.org.uk 3FHJTUFSFE JO &OHMBOE $IBSJUZ /VNCFS t $PNQBOZ /VNCFS t $PNQBOZ -JNJUFE CZ (VBSBOUFF RT2012 RETIREMENT

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There is no obligation to subscribe at the end of the trial period, but we hope that you will decide the newsletter is just too good to miss out on and take out a yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s membership at a specially discounted rate.

17

Freedom to enjoy your home.

Support to stay secure there.

Discover Age UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gifted Housing Service

Under the Gifted Housing Service we will:

Home. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to our identity, our independence, our wellbeing. Most people would like to stay in their own homes for as long as possible.

But as we grow older, health problems can be a worry and sometimes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a struggle to keep up with repairs or pay the bills.

F !-4#0 2&# !-12 -$ -3,!'* 6A 5 2#0 0 2#1 ," buildings insurance

When you donate your home to Age UK through the Gifted Housing Service youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll enjoy all the benefits of home ownership without the anxiety. Set up 35 years ago, this unique scheme helps you live in your own home for longer.

F 00 ,%# ," . 7 $-0 +-12 + ',2#, ,!#A 3.)##. and improvements with your agreement F &#*. 00 ,%# ," . 7 !-,20' 32'-, 2-5 0"1 7-30 care at home or elsewhere should you need it F .0-4'"# 13..-02 2- &#*. 7-3 12 7 ', 7-30 &-+# for longer.

** 0800 169 29 39 or 01225 447800 www.ageuk.org.uk/gifted-housing Or complete the form below quoting lm If you are an older person and own your own home in England or Wales, and would consider donating the property to charity and receiving help with property maintenance and support to stay living there please get in touch to find out if you could benefit from the Gifted Housing Service.

Name ................................................................................................................ Address ............................................................................................................................................... ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Postcode ......................................................... #*#.&-,#...........................................................................Email ......................................................................................................

Return to %# '$2#" -31',% #04'!#A H lkttrJA 2& m n We will use the information you have supplied to communicate with you in line with Data Protection guidelines. For the purposes of Data Protection, Age UK also !-+.0'1#1 2&# & 0'27`1 %0-3. -$ !-+. ,'#1 ," ? 2'-, * 02,#01 H %# 7+03A %# !-2* ," 9 %# J@ $ 7-3 5-3*" .0#$#0 ,-2 2- &# 0 $0-+ 2&#+ -0 ! 0#$3**7 selected third parties please tick the following boxes: I do not wish to be contacted by the charityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s group of companies Please do not pass my details on to carefully selected third parties By providing your email address and/or telephone number you are agreeing to receiving electronic marketing messages from us, unless you indicate otherwise by ticking this box -3 + 7 !-,2 !2 31 2 ,7 2'+# 2- 3,13 1!0' # $0-+ -30 !-++3,'! 2'-,1@ %# '1 !& 0'2 *# !-+. ,7 *'+'2#" 7 %3 0 ,2## ," 0#%'12#0#" ', ,%* ," H0#%'12#0#" !& 0'27 ,3+ #0 llmsmqr ," 0#%'12#0#" !-+. ,7 ,3+ #0 qsmprtsJ@ &# 0#%'12#0#" ""0#11 '1 4'1 -31#A lSq 4'12-!) /3 0#A -,"-, l t @ lm mkkonp kqGlm

Out&About...

London 2012

Your chance to own a piece of Olympic History The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games are auctioning the authentic London 2012 Torches from an official online auction throughout the Torch Relay.

Each Torch is packaged in an Olympic ~Torch Relay collectors box and comes with a certificate of authenticity and unique serial ID number to protect customers. Each Torch will be available on the auction website for approximately 7-14 days.

The auction takes place at www.london2012.com/auction and the proceeds will help subside the costs of Torchbearers and contribute towards the stating of the Games.

FROM PARIS:

A Taste for Impressionism Paintings from the Clark

Bill Armstrong (b.1952) Portrait of Queen Elizabeth, 2012 Chromogenic print, 50.8 x 61cm, 20 x 24in ©Bill Armstrong

The Sackler Wing of Galleries Royal Academy of Arts, London Until 23 September

By Way of These Eyes: The Hyland Collection of American Photography

Capital Age Festival Until 15 July London’s only arts festival by older people returns this July Now in it’s 10th year, Capital Age Festival returns for the first time as a two-week event. The festival has grown year by year and continues to evolve to reflect the changing face of older people’s art. More than 250 older artists are involved in this year’s festival. Over 50 performances, workshops and exhibitions across London, all made by Londoners aged over 60. The festival will showcase music, theatre, dance, photography, film, poetry, comedy, storytelling, visual arts and crafts. There is sure to be something for everyone.

For further information www.capitalagefestival.org.uk

FAMOUS IN THE FIFTIES: PHOTOGRAPHS BY DANIEL FARSON National Portrait GaMMFSZ t 6OUJM 4FQUFNCFS t 3PPN A new display of photographs by legendary Soho figure, Daniel Farson is on show at the National Portrait Gallery, celebrating the multi-faceted career of Farson who worked as a Picture Post photographer, television presenter, and writer.

The sixteen portraits on display include artist Lucian Freud and writer Brendan Behan in Dublin, Cyril Connolly and Lady Caroline Blackwood on Old Compton Street in Soho, artist and illustrator Nina Hamnett, actress Barbara Windsor, artist Graham Sutherland and actor Richard Burton, Writer Anthony Carson, critic John Davenport, photographer John Deakin and poet David Wright are all photographed opposite the French pub in Soho where Farson was a regular.

Admission free. For further information www.npg.org RETIREMENT

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Out & About

An exhibition that presents treasures from textile designer Christopher Hyland’s comprehensive collection of American photography. Iconic images from the early 20th century by artists in awe of the colossal scale of American cities will be displayed alongside “paintings in film” crafted by later generations of photographers working in the United States who spurned urban monuments for the minutiae of the natural world – the abstract in reality.

To commenerate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee being celebrated throughout Britain this year, Hyland commissioned Bill Armstrong (fittingly born in 1952) to produce a triptych portrait of Queen Elizabeth II which portrays her as a child, in middle age and the full dignity of her maturity.

In honour of the Olympic Games in London in 2012, Hyland also commissioned Armstrong to create a triptych which, along with Herb Ritts’ iconic image of British Olympian hurdler Jacqui Agyepong will be on display during the exhibition. www.americanmuseum.org

Pierre-Auguste Renoir Girl with a Fan, c. 1879. Oil on canvas 65.4 x 54 cm © Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute, Williamstown, Massachusetts, USA, 1955.595 Exhibition organised by the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute, Williamstown, Massachusetts, in association with the Royal Academy of Arts.

Barbara Windsor by Daniel Farson, 1963. ©Estate of Daniel Farson

The American Museum, Bath 14 July-28 October

This exhibition is displaying 70 major works, many of which have never been on public display in the UK before. Masterpieces by Manet, Monet, Pissarro, Degs, Sisley and Morisot, as well as an exceptional group of more than twenty paintings by Renoir, are being shown.

The paintings are presented by genre, to reveal the range of subject matter and diversity of stylistic approach in French 19th century art.

The groups of work include landscapes and cityscapes, marine views, genre paintings depicting scenes of life; nudes; still lifes; portraits.

For further information www.royalacademy.org.uk

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21

L

ondon is so well known to the British that we all feel as though we know it well, but I suspect it would take many lifetimes to truly come to feel familiar with all its nuances and complexities. So planning a walking trail through our capital was a daunting but not impossible task. My husband and I have been making walking films for over ten years, both in the UK and abroad, and living outside the capital, we tackled London just as we would a foreign city. I have adored London since I was a child, and for me, no walking trail would be complete without involving the Thames, so plotting the most popular sights and tourist spots had to include our world famous river.

We also wanted to include an air of celebration too; with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, it made sense to take another look at the existing Silver Jubilee Walkway for inspiration.

To our delight, it came very close to what we had envisaged, and where possible we have kept true to it.

There have been detours because for the section from Trafalgar Square to St Paul’s, we missed glimpses of the river, so we wandered off the Walkway to stroll onto Waterloo Bridge to get the fantastic views back to Westminster, and forward to Tower Bridge.

We talked to Eileen Geibig of VisitLondon for some suggestions on how to visit our capital on a budget, and then started our trail at Oxford Street and the Marble Arch, walking into lovely Hyde Park. All of the Royal Parks are vital green spaces in London, with histories almost as long as the city, and featured heavily in my childhood. The Serpentine is still a draw, and it’s funny that the urge to break off little chunks

Footloose in London

Footloose in London

By Debra Rixon

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RETIREMENT

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of your sandwich to throw to any attendant bird doesn’t seem to dim with the passing of years. We met the Director of London Walks at Hyde Park Corner to talk about their amazing array of guided walking trails throughout London. We both agreed that walking is by far the best way to see this and any other capital, and she had little tips to pass on, such as the view of the Queen’s private gardens at Buckingham Palace from the top of the Wellington Arch. The Duke of Wellington is a personal hero of mine, so actually going up the Arch and looking at the splendid tile paintings in the underpass was a ‘first’ for me.

The Commonwealth war memorials are mostly situated here, which seems fitting somehow, and the walk down Constitution Hill towards the Palace affords you a chance to see the relatively new memorial to the Commonwealth war dead from India, Africa and

dance to the music of a performing band. This walking trail wasn’t about striding out, it was about strolling, meandering and savouring the richness of our nation’s capital – and the breathtaking views from a capsule on the London Eye can put it all into perspective.

Reaching Westminster Bridge and leaning on the parapet just to drink in the magnificent sight of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben is a satisfying finish to our trail, which is unashamedly celebratory. Our capital is world famous and rightly so – London is one of the greatest cities of all time, and has been so for a large part of its chequered history, so why not be proud?

Walking this trail through London had made me see it as never before: almost like a foreign city, London

had recognisable landmarks, but now also with some marvellous terrain in between that, by shunning public transport, I was coming to look upon with fresh eyes. My twelve-mile trail over several days through the best known areas had left me with the exciting prospect that ahead of me lay years of discovering the uniqueness of London.

Debra and David met in their forties, both widowed, with two teenaged daughters and a son between them. Second families are always a challenge, but as they excitedly welcome the birth of their first grandchild, it seems to have worked. After 36 years, David took early retirement from the BBC to focus on their filmmaking exploits, and two years later Debra also left her job.Walking provided a low cost and spontaneous past time that provided much needed privacy for a middle-aged newly married couple with teenagers at home.Turning it into a new career was another challenge, but with the help of local Oxford SIXTV and a broadcast agency contract, it evolved into just that.They have a 22-part Footloose television series that is broadcast in Europe and beyond, and all their films are available on amazon.co.uk – find out more about their travels on www.footloose.tv.You can also watch previews of their films on Youtube Q The Footloose in London DVD is a glorious walking trail through the heart of the capital and a perfect souvenir of all the best sights in summer.

The DVD normally retails at £11.99 and we have five to give away to readers. For your chance to win a copy, just send in your name and address, quoting FL to: Amra Media Solutions, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, "UCKS (0 %3 n OR EMAIL info@amramedia.co.uk RETIREMENT

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Footloose in London

friendly chat with the landlord about the bare-knuckle fights that took place in the back room – the Bucket of Blood! – and the infamous attack on author John Dryden that took place in the adjacent alleyway.

I love the Thames, and strolling along the Embankment is a particular pleasure, but I had never walked into the City of London that way, and never having had the need, I’ve never gone into the intriguing Temple and Inns of Court before.There is so much to see in London that is not obvious; I would never have wandered to the corner of Giltspur Street to look for the Caribbean, and the ornate and the golden chubby cherub that marks gilded ironwork of Canada Gate the end of the Fire of London’s path signals the exit into the bottom of the had we not been walking a trail Mall and Buckingham Palace itself. through London. Walking is always a Walking this film gave me the chance joy, but this was even more so because to see the Changing of the Guard in I was re-learning and re-discovering all it’s splendour – how many decades a city that I thought I knew.

Strolling along to Ludgate Hill – has it been since I came up to London not much of one, it must be said – specifically for that purpose?

We strolled through St James’ Park, and stunning St. Paul’s is a pleasure I perhaps the loveliest of the Royal don’t take very often – I mean, I’ve Parks, to Horseguards, which hosts a seen St. Paul’s, so what else is there? mini display of changing the guards Well, Paternoster Square for one, and then there you are in Whitehall. with the original Temple Bar and the Not perhaps a pretty street, but full of memorial to the Great Fire for two important and grand buildings from more. Would I have been looking for another age and time, although No them, had I not been researching this BEHIND THE BARRIERS IN $OWNING film? Visiting the Museum of London in the Barbican meant Walking is always a joy, but this walking through streets have never known, was even more so because I was Itheir names retaining re-learning and re-discovering a their medieval origin city that I thought I knew. just as their foundations are built on the old city.

Street is terribly unassuming, despite The sense of history was strongest for me here and as I wandered down to the armed but friendly police.

As a general rule, I’ve found that the Tower and the river.

Gazing on that amazing fortress trips up to London have been for a specific purpose; to a particular never fails to stir the imagination, place or venue, so walking this trail and walking across Tower Bridge took me to parts of the city I have on the Jubilee Walkway, you can’t never been to or spent much time help gazing up at the gantries above in. It’s a short distance to Trafalgar and wondering if the bascules (not Square – should one be nostalgic a word I’d learned before!) will for the hordes of pigeons that are no suddenly start to rise. Once across, longer there? A simply wonderful it’s all the non-stop square, packed with interesting things alternative entertainment to see, including the old Imperial of the South Bank – the weights and measures, almost hidden Golden Hind replica on some steps below the National ship, and Southwark’s Gallery. From here, only a short step tiny cathedral is a little to Piccadilly and then we plunge undiscovered jewel and into Theatreland and reach Leicester Borough Market is a real Square, which is a great deal tidier treat for all the senses – try some of the mixes than I remember from years ago! aromatically Walking gives you an appetite, and bubbling if like me, you love the old London in the huge frying character pubs, then resting the feet pans! So much to see: inside (or outside) one is a welcome beachcombers and sand stop. We chose the Lamb and Flag, sculptures whilst the tide close to Covent Garden and had a is out, people moved to

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COMPETITIONS

For a chance to win any of the prizes, send your name and address (quoting reference code) to: Amra Media Solutions, The Old Lavender Mill, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, Bucks, HP22 5ES or email: info@amramedia.co.uk

WIN TICKETS TO SEE CLASSIC BRITISH COMEDY PLAY THE 39 STEPS

BEL AMI

Follow our handsome hero Richard Hannay in this blissfully funny comedy thriller featuring four fearless actors playing 139 roles in 100 minutes of fast-paced fun. Complete with stiff upper lip, British gung-ho and devastatingly beautiful women, The 39 Steps is a must see!

Win one of three pairs of top tickets to see The 39 Steps!

The Criterion Theatre, Piccadilly Circus, London W1V 9LB Box Office: 0844 847 1778 www.love39steps.com Terms and conditions Prize is valid until 30th September 2012.

Subject to availability. Prize is as stated and cannot be transferred or exchanged. No cash alternative will be offered.

Closing date: 31 July 2012 For a change to win send in your details, quoting ref 39S

Bel Ami is out on Blu-ray, DVD and EST on 23 July 2012, courtesy of StudioCanal

Edvard Munch The Girls on the Bridge 1927 (detail) © The Munch Museum/The Munch - Ellingsen Group, BONO, Oslo/DACS, London 2012

Win a pair of tickets to Edvard Munch: The Modern Eye at Tate Modern Few other modern artists are better known and yet less understood than Norwegian painter Edvard Munch (1863–1944). This exhibition examines the artist’s work from the 20th century, including sixty paintings, many from the Munch Museum in Oslo, with a rare showing of his work in film and photography.

JAMES PATTERSON AND MICHAEL LEDWIDGE

I, MICHAEL BENNETT Award - winning and bestselling author, James Patterson is back with another compelling thriller.

The latest instalment is now out on hardback from Random House.

Competitions

Detective Michael Bennett arrests an infamous South American crime lord in a deadly chase that leaves Bennett’s lifelong friend Hughie McDonough dead. From jail, the prisoner vows to rain epic violence down upon New York City and to get revenge on Michael Bennett.

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A no-holds-barred, pedal-to-the-floor, action-packed novel, I, Michael Bennett is James Patterson at his most personal and most thrilling best.

We have 5 books to give away – For a chance to win a copy send in your details quoting ref. IMB Closing date: 10 August 2012.

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Munch is often seen as a 19th-century Symbolist painter but this exhibition shows how he engaged with modernity and was inspired by the everyday life outside of his studio, such as street scenes and incidents in the media – including The House is Burning 1925–7. The show also examines how Munch repeated a single motif over a long period of time to re-work it, as can be seen in his most celebrated works, such as The Sick Child 1885–1927 and Girls on the Bridge 1902–27.

A sizzling sexual drama, starring heart throb du jour Robert Pattison, BEL AMI tells the story of down-on-his-luck Georges Duroy, who travels through 1890s Paris, from its cockroach ridden garrets to its opulent salons, using his wits and powers of seduction to rise from poverty to wealth. Introduced into higher society by a former comrade at arms, Duroy becomes the talk of the town as he captivates and manipulates some of Paris’ most powerful women, blinding them with deceit, distraction or debauchery whilst trying to prevent his sordid house of cards from falling apart.

We have 3 DVD’s to give away.

For a chance to win send in the details, quoting ref BA. Closing date: 10 August 2012.

We have 2 pairs of tickets to give away.

For a chance to win, send in your details, quoting TM. Closing date: 15 August 2012.

T’s and C’s: Valid until 14 October, subject to availability

BBC Springwatch British Wildlife

By Stephen Moss and The Springwatch Team The much-loved BBC series Springwatch has been back on our screens revealing the nation’s rich and diverse wildlife at its finest.

This wonderful companion book is designed to help viewers learn about the wildlife featured in the TV programme, covering everything from blackbirds and blue tits, to less common examples such as natterjack, toads or rare orchids, as well as the majestic variety of eagles and whales.

We have 3 copies of the book to give away, for a chance to win send in your details quoting ref SBW. Closing date 10 August 2012.

Go Ape! Take one lush forest and blend with a smattering of wind-in-your face zip wires, tree-top high wires, rope ladders and Tarzan swings, for an exhilarating family adventure that is second to none.

To coincide with its 10th birthday, Go Ape! the Forest Adventure Company is teaming up with Retirement Today to offer two pairs of tickets for one of its 28 courses nationwide. The tickets entitle two adults to enjoy an exhilarating dayout climbing around one of its giant tree top courses using ladders, walkways, bridges and tunnels made of wood, rope and super-strong wire, and top it all off with flights along some of Britain’s best zip lines.

Visit www.goape.co.uk to find your nearest adventure!

For your chance to win, send in your details quoting ref GA. Closing date 31 July 2012.

YES, PRIME MINISTER

THE DOCTOR’S DILEMMA See THE DOCTOR’S DILEMMA for £35 (usually £38 and £47)

See YES, PRIME MINISTER for £35 (Usually £46.50)

by Bernard Shaw

Trafalgar Studios, Whitehall

National Theatre, South Bank

THE AWARD WINNING COMEDY NOW ON STAGE! Following two smash hit West End runs and a successful nationwide campaign trail, the award-winning YES, PRIME MINISTER has been updated and voted back into London!

Taking up residence in the heart of Whitehall, this hilarious comedy by original BBC writers Antony Jay & Jonathan Lynn thrusts the much-loved characters Sir Humphrey Appleby and Jim Hacker into the chaos of 21st century coalition politics. With the threat of financial meltdown just hours away, and the only hope of rescue resting on a morally dubious deal with the Foreign Minister of Kumranistan, the stage is set for a riotous comedy of sex, scandal and scheming.

‘As sharp and blissfully funny as ever’ (Daily Telegraph) ‘A delightful stream of one-liners’ (Evening Standard)

To Book: Call 0844 871 7632 and quote ‘Retirement Today Offer’.

Offer valid on performances until 22 September, excludes Saturday evening performances. Subject to availability. Booking fees apply.

FASCINATING AIDA See FASCINATING AIDA for £17 (usually £22) London Wonderground, South Bank FASCINATING AIDA are in residence for the whole of September at the Southbank Centre’s fabulous new London Wonderground. Britain’s best loved comedy cabaret trio – global internet sensations with more than eight million hits to date – return to London after their sell-out Christmas season with their smash hit show Cheap Flights. This show includes several numbers hot off the press, plus a few old favourites including their infamous anthem to budget travel, Cheap Flights (8 million plus hits on YouTube) as well as The Dogging Song, a fond homage to the joys of al fresco sex.

‘The glamour is magnetic, the satire razor-sharp, the lyrics brilliant... intensely poignant.’ (The Guardian) ‘See them before you die otherwise your life will have been meaningless.’ (Mail on Sunday) ‘It is, as the whooping audience insisted, feckin hilarious.’

(Daily Telegraph)

To Book:

Call 0844 545 8282 and quote ‘Retirement Today Offer’.

Offer valid on Monday - Thursday performances between 3 September and 29 September. Subject to availability.

BBernard Shaw’s funny and incisive play ttakes on with an irreverent glee the ddubious ethics of the men who play God. AAden Gillett plays Colenso Ridgeon.

H Harley Street doctor Sir Colenso Ridgeon’s ree revolution ary tuberculosis treatment ree remains experimental and his resources ree restricted to ten selected patients.

Je Jennifer e Dubedat, desperate to save the lif life of her brilliant artist husband dines with Ridgeon and his colleagues.

Be Beguiled e by the charismatic Dubedat and his lovely wife, they concur that hi his is a life worth saving, even at the expense of another. Meanwhile, their im impoverished colleague Blenkinsop, the most worthy but least exceptional, re reveals himself in dire need of treatment. From 17 July.

TTo Book: EEnter promotion code ‘5875’ before selecting seats at nationaltheatre. oorg.uk/dilemma or call 020 7452 3000 quoting ‘Retirement Today Offer’. Offer valid on performances 25 July – 8 August. Tickets must be O bbooked before 31 July. Subject to availability.

LLONG DAY’S JOURNEY IN NIGHT INTO See David Suchet in LONG DAY’S JOURNEY INTO NIGHT for £32.50 Mon-Fri and £42.50 on Saturday performances (Usually £56) Apollo Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue David Suchet, (‘a force to be reckoned with’ Georgina Brown, Mail on Sunday) returns to the West End in Eugene O’Neill’s Pulitzer prize-winning masterpiece, LONG DAY’S JOURNEY INTO NIGHT, one of the greatest American plays written in the 20th century. The critically acclaimed 5 star production runs for a limited season at the Apollo Theatre.

‘The play sends you out of the theatre uplifted - glowing performances

by David Suchet and Laurie Metcalf’ Michael Billington, The Guardian.

Directed by Anthony Page with designs by Lez Brotherston.

‘A masterly production of a masterpiece – the dramatic rewards are enormous’ Charles Spencer, Daily Telegraph Set in 1912, the play is a riveting view of the life of James Tyrone (David Suchet), Mary Tyrone (Laurie Metcalf) and their sons, Jamie (Trevor White) and Edmund (Kyle Soller) during one fateful summer’s day.

‘A remarkable evening with moments of marvellous humour shockingly good’ Libby Purves, The Times Intense and passionate, ‘This beautifully acted revival sends you into the night elated’ Caroline McGinn, Time Out.

To Book: Call 0844 412 4658 and quote ‘Retirement Today Offer’ Offer is valid on Monday – Friday performances until 17 August. Saturday tickets are also available for £42.50 with this offer until 17 August.

All tickets subject to availability.

Summer Balmy

A selection of recipes taken from Summer Days & Balmy Nights, published

by Ryland Peters & Small. barbecued ďŹ sh bathed in oregano and lemon Greece is known for its simple and delicious cuisine made from fresh ingredients with seafood often being the highlight of any menu.

This is a typical Greek dish of char-grilled bream with oil, oregano and garlic, but you could use other small ďŹ sh such as red mullet, snapper or even trout. grated zest of 1 and freshly squeezed juice of 2 lemons 250 ml extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon dried oregano 2 garlic cloves, ďŹ nely chopped 2 tablespoons chopped fresh ďŹ&#x201A;at-leaf parsley 6 snapper or bream, about 350 g. each, well cleaned and scaled sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Serves 6

Put the zest and juice of 1 lemon in a small bowl. Add the olive oil, reserving 4 tablespoons, the oregano, garlic, parsley, and some salt and pepper. Leave to infuse for at least 1 hour.

Wash and dry the ďŹ sh inside and out. Using a sharp knife, cut several slashes into each side. Squeeze the juice from the remaining lemon into a bowl, add the remaining 4 tablespoons of oil, some salt and pepper and rub the mixture all over the ďŹ sh.

(EAT A STOVE TOP GRIDDLE PAN OR BARBECUE ADD THE lSH AND COOK FOR n MINUTES ON EACH SIDE UNTIL CHARRED AND COOKED THROUGH Put the ďŹ sh on a large, warmed serving platter, pour over the dressing and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

olive-infused chicken with charred lemons This delicious concoction of olives, lemons, fresh marjoram and succulent chicken makes an ideal main course for a barbecue party. Serve with a selection of salads, such as tomato and basil.

1.5 kgchicken 75 g pitted black olives 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon sea salt 2 tablespoons chopped fresh marjoram freshly squeezed juice of 1 lemon

Summer Days and Balmy Nights

plus 2 halved lemons

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freshly ground black pepper Serves 4

To prepare the chicken, put it onto a board with the back facing upwards and, using kitchen scissors, cut along each side of the backbone and remove it completely. Using your ďŹ ngers, gently ease the skin away from the ďŹ&#x201A;esh, then put the chicken into a large, shallow dish. Put the olives, olive oil, salt, marjoram and lemon juice into a separate bowl and mix well, then pour over the chicken and push as many of the olives as possible up between the skin and ďŹ&#x201A;esh of the chicken. Let marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours.

Preheat the barbecue, then cook cut-side down over medium-hot coals for MINUTES 5SING TONGS TURN THE CHICKEN OVER AND COOK FOR A FURTHER minutes or until the skin is golden, the ďŹ&#x201A;esh is cooked through and the juices run clear when the thickest part of the meat is pierced with a skewer. If any bloody juices appear, cook for a little longer. While the CHICKEN IS COOKING ADD THE HALVED LEMONS TO THE GRILL AND COOK FOR ABOUT n MINUTES UNTIL CHARRED AND TENDER ON ALL SIDES ,ET THE CHICKEN REST FOR MINUTES BEFORE SERVING WITH THE CHARRED LEMONS RETIREMENT

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All images taken from the book ŠRyland Peters & Small

souvlaki with bulgur wheat salad

Days & Nights

Souvlaki is the classic Greek kebab, a delicious combination of cubed lamb marinated in red wine with herbs and lemon juice. The meat is tenderized by the wine, resulting in a juicy and succulent dish.

1 kg lamb neck ďŹ llets

Bulgur wheat salad

1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary

350 g bulgur wheat

1 tablespoon dried oregano

25 g chopped fresh ďŹ&#x201A;at-leaf parsley

1 onion, chopped

15 g fresh mint leaves, chopped

4 garlic cloves, chopped

2 garlic cloves, crushed

300 ml red wine

150 ml extra virgin olive oil

freshly squeezed juice of 1 lemon

freshly squeezed juice of 2 lemons

75 ml olive oil

a pinch of caster sugar

sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Serves 6

Trim the excess fat off the lamb and then cut the meat into 2.5-cm cubes. Put into a shallow, non-metal dish. Add the rosemary, oregano, onion, garlic, wine, lemon juice, olive oil, and some salt and pepper.

Toss well, cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for 4 hours.

Return to room temperature for 1 hour before cooking.

4O MAKE THE SALAD SOAK THE BULGUR WHEAT IN WARM WATER FOR minutes until the water has been absorbed and the grains have softened. Strain well to extract any excess water and transfer to a bowl. Add the remaining ingredients, season to taste and set ASIDE FOR MINUTES TO DEVELOP THE mAVOURS 4HREAD THE LAMB ONTO LARGE ROSEMARY STALKS OR METAL SKEWERS 0REHEAT THE BARBECUE TO HOT AND COOK OVER HOT COALS FOR MINUTES

turning and basting from time to time. Let rest for 5 minutes, then serve with the salad.

summer vegetable skewers with home-made pesto Full of sunshine ďŹ&#x201A;avours, these kebabs/kabobs can be served with pasta tossed in some of the pesto sauce. Home-made pesto is very personal â&#x20AC;&#x201C; some people like it very garlicky, others prefer lots of basil or Parmesan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so simply adjust the quantities to suit your taste.

2 aubergines, cut into chunks

For the marinade

2 courgettes, cut into chunks

4 tablespoons olive oil

2â&#x20AC;&#x201C;3peppers, cut into chunks

freshly squeezed juice of 1â &#x201E;2 a lemon

12â&#x20AC;&#x201C;16 cherry tomatoes

2 garlic cloves, crushed

4 red onions, quartered

1 teaspoon sea salt

Serves 4â&#x20AC;&#x201C;6

For the pesto

Summer Days and Balmy Nights

To make the pesto, use a mortar 3â&#x20AC;&#x201C;4 garlic cloves, roughly chopped and pestle to pound the garlic leaves from a large bunch of fresh basil (at with the basil leaves and salt. least 30â&#x20AC;&#x201C;40 leaves) Add the pine nuts and pound 1â &#x201E;2 teaspoon sea salt them to a paste. Slowly drizzle in 2â&#x20AC;&#x201C;3 tablespoons pine nuts some olive oil and bind with the grated Parmesan. Continue to extra virgin olive oil, as required pound and grind with the pestle, 60 g/2â &#x201E;3 cup ďŹ nely grated adding in enough oil to make a Parmesan cheese smooth sauce. Set aside.

Put all the prepared vegetables in a bowl. Mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and salt and pour it over the vegetables. Using your hands, toss the vegetables gently in the marinade, then thread them onto skewers.

Preheat the barbecue to medium-hot. Cook the KEBABS FOR n MINUTES ON EACH SIDE UNTIL THE VEGETABLES ARE NICELY BROWNED Serve the kebabs with the pesto on the side for drizzling.

Summer Days & Balmy Nights is available to our readers for the special price of ÂŁ17.99 including postage & packaging (rrpÂŁ19.99) by telephoning Macmillan Direct ON AND QUOTING THE REFERENCE ',2 ,/ RETIREMENT RETIRE RET IREMEN IRE MENTT MEN

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For a complimentaryy copy of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;all aboutt animals magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; email info@ amramedia.co.uk quoting ref RT

Join a telephone group to improve your health and well being!

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We are dedicated to the welfare and rescue of greyhounds everywhere, especially those in Spain which are used for hunting and dreadfully abused.

This work is successful but expensive.

For sponsoring one of our rescues, helping by donating to our work or leaving us a legacy, please contact us, quoting ref. RT *UH\KRXQGV LQ 1HHG 33 High Street Wraysbury, Middlesex, TW19 5DA Tel 01784 483206, Fax 01784 482501 Email: info@greyhoundsinneed.co.uk 3OHDVH YLVLW RXU ZHEVLWH ZZZ JUH\KRXQGVLQQHHG FR XN

Replacement

Sensing death

A dog is also much more likely to accept a replacement after its companion dies than a cat would be. Some cats never really accept a replacement for the companion they grew up with; it may take many months or it may never happen. Many cats simply behave as if the replacement does not exist.

The decision to replace a pet must be based on your own personal feelings and also on your assessment of how a replacement would affect your existing pets.

In some cases a replacement pet has proved positively beneficial. Brammer, a Labrador cross and Bungle, a beagle, were inseparable. When Brammer became ill and euthanansia was carried out, Bungle appeared to become very

The warden of a block of flats agreed to look after an elderly lady’s dog when she went into hospital. At 11am one morning, for no apparent reason the dog sat up and howled. A little while later the hospital rang to say the lady has passed away – at 11am!

In Taiwan many people ask a priest to visit them when they hear a dog howl, because a family death is believed to be imminent.

Even in the fictional Sherlock Holmes stories, the howling of a hound announced the imminent death of a member of the Baskerville family.

Tales of this nature are so numerous that it is hard to separate fact from fiction. It is not possible to reach any definite conclusion on the awareness of animals, but it is acceptable to suppose that animals may have faculties beyond our comprehension Q An extract from Absent Friend-coping with the loss of a pet by Laura & -ARTYN ,EE PUBLISHED BY 2INGPRESS Books, a Division of Interpet Ltd

Rehoming a pet when an owner dies

W

hen an owner dies or becomes unable to look after a pet, the pet may have to be rehomed and this can prove difficult for both the pet and the new owner.

Dogs often adapt quite well to a new environment and, although there will be a time of adjustment whilst the animal settles down to a new routine and a new owner, the new environment may well help the dog to get over his pining for his previous owner.

In contrast cats tend to become closely bonded to one individual and if that individual dies they may find it hard to adjust, becoming introverted and changing their behaviour quite markedly.

‘She always remained my mother’s cat,’ the new owner of a rehomed cat told us.

Eventually the cat may form a bond with its new owner but it takes time and patience; old cats are much more set in their ways and therefore have much more difficulty settling down.

depressed. Although he would show an interest in other dogs out on his walks, at home he was listless and miserable.

After a year his owner acquired Bobby, another beagle, and after a period of adjustment Bungle is more or less back to normal.

Although many animals show a change of behaviour following the death of a companion, not all changes are adverse ones. The death of a dominant pet may allow its more submissive companion to ‘blossom’; a shy, nervous cat may become confident and affectionate, a submissive dog may become the ‘leader of the pack’.

When the ‘leader of the pack’ in a household of dogs dies, a new leader has to emerge and this may initially cause friction until the new social order becomes established.

Rehoming a pet when an owner dies

All responsible pet owners know that they need to make sure that their four legged friends will be looked after and cared for if they were to die suddenly, but have you ever wondered “What will happen to my pet after I have gone?”

One of the charities at the forefront of providing a service to look after the pets of the deceased is the National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT). The charity rehomes thousands of unwanted animals each year, of all kinds. Their excellent Pet Care Card is a free service that guarantees a complete peace of mind for owners in the event that they pass away, knowing that their pet’s future will be a safe and happy one after their lifetime, offering particular security to the elderly or those living alone.

Becoming a card holder couldn’t be easier, with just three easy steps. Complete an application form, receive your free wallet-sized card which you can carry on your person at all times, and leave instructions in your Will confirming that you would like the NAWT to look after your pet(s), so there is no confusion about your wishes.

In the event of your passing, the information provided about your pet will enable them to find the best possible new home. For instance, if you have a very active dog, they will make sure he has plenty of opportunities during the day to run around and play. In the unlikely event that they can’t find your friend a home, they will look after them for the rest of their natural life.

The peace of mind that a service like this offers pet owners knowing that their beloved pets are being taken care of offers a security and comfort that is truly priceless!

For further information on Pet Care Card visit www.nawt.org.uk.

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Charity N E W S The Royal Star & Garter Homes is a charity founded in 1916. We were established to care for the severely disabled young men returning from the battlegrounds of the First World War. Today we provide brilliant care to the whole military family in our friendly, modern and comfortable homes. Elderly and disabled exService men and women, and their partners, can all FIRI½X JVSQ SYV TMSRIIVMRK ETTVSEGL XS RYVWMRK ERH therapeutic care.

A gift in your Will to The Royal Star & Garter Homes enables us to continue to provide brilliant care to those who have served our nation for generations to come.

8S ½RH SYX QSVI EFSYX PIEZMRK E PIKEG] TPIEWI GEPP .SLR on 020 8439 8125 or email john.ingram@starandgarter.org

www.starandgarter.org Registered Charity No. 210119

Making a Difference…

Gerry O’ Sullivan, Chair is pictured (centre) being presented with cheque from Joseph Ray and Lee-ona Young, People’s Postcode Trust.

Beautiful Garden for Biggar The residents of Bield’s care home at Langvout Court in Biggar now have a beautiful community wildlife garden after Bield transformed an unused grassy area thanks to a grant from the People’s Postcode Trust. Sheltered seating areas enable residents and their families and friends to make the most of the Scottish Summers. Raised beds have been added to encourage residents to grow their own produce and children at Biggar Primary School come to visit to tend to their own area to grow flowers and vegetables. New residents in the garden include 2 ducks and there’s plenty of room for ladybirds and bees who can reside in specially created ‘hotels’.

For over 40 years, Bield have been providing quality housing and support services for older people in Scotland, helping over 15,000 people each year. They receive no government funding to support their Volunteer Development Programme which mostly provides a befriending service, social events and outings.

For further information www.bield.co.uk/Fundraising

Looking for With supported housing, nursing and dementia care, the Church of England Pensions Board provides security and peace of mind in retirement to those who have given their lives towards helping others in the name of Christ, including Clergy Widows and Licensed Lay Workers.

We rely on donations and legacies to continue this much needed work.

Charity News

PLEASE HELP US IN ANY WAY YOU CAN

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The Church of England Pensions Board (RT) FREEPOST 898, LONDON SW1P 3YS Tel: 020 7898 1800

Web: www.cepb.org.uk/appeals Email: cepbappeals@churchofengland.org Registered Charity Number: 236627 RETIREMENT

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Greyhounds and galgos (Spanish-bred hunting greyhounds) make excellent family pets, and, contrary to popular opinion, their requirements for exercise are moderate and many can live happily with cats. Here are two looking for homes.

Sam, a fawn male galgo (Spanish greyhound), approx. 3 years old, he was rescued in Madrid. He is very friendly and gets on alright with the other dogs. He is a lovely looking dog and despite losing 6 teeth he still loves his food and he also loves lots of fuss.

Chato is a large black male galgo, with some white markings on his chest. He is approx. 4 years old. He enjoys running in the exercise paddock at the kennels.

He will need some time to gain his confidence again but he is a nice dog and deserves to be in a loving home now.

If you would like further information, please contact Greyhounds in Need on 01784 483206 or email info@ greyhoundsinneed.co.uk www.greyhoundsinneed.co.uk

Diabetes Wellness Weekend 2012 The Elvetham Hotel, Hartley Wintney, Hampshire Friday, 26th to Monday, 29th October

For further details, please contact Event Co-ordinator Lee Calladine on 023 92 636133 or by e-mail at events@drwf.org.uk

a home

Life Letters To mark its 100 year anniversary in 2016 The Royal Star & Garter Homes is launching the Life Letters project.

They would like you to share with them either; your story of how you’ve lived your life to the full or the story of family, friends, colleagues and members of your community, who have been part of the military family in the last 100 years, and that you are proud of and inspired by. Letters are just as important today to the military family as they were 100 years ago. They are a powerful symbol of love and hope, and the millions of letters sent and received have kept our military family connected. A Life Letter might be a story of love and friendship, passion and pride, jobs and service, hobbies and interests, life’s lucky-breaks and challenges, differences made and lessons learned. It might be a special moment in time or it might sum up a lifetime of memories. Over the coming months they will collect and share these stories with the ultimate aim of publishing a book.

Life Letters can be emailed lifeletters@ starandgarter.org or sent: Life Letters, The Royal Star & Garter Homes, FREEPOST RLUX-CSXB-KZGG, TW10 6RR. For further information go to www.starandgarter.org/lifeletters

Professor Ian Grierson is Head of Ophthalmology at the University of Liverpool and a medical advisor to the International Glaucoma Association (IGA), the charity for people with glaucoma.

He’s also produced a recipe book – Home Cooking with the IGA – to raise money for the Association. Professor Grierson has kindly agreed to put on a cooking demonstration, using recipes from the book, at the IGA’s stand at the 50+ Show, Olympia, on 13th and 14th July. Here is one of the recipes from the book:

MACKEREL AND POTATOES This is a dish full of goodness that I love and eat often, particularly when I am on holiday in the West of Ireland, where the freshly smoked mackerel are exceptional. (for 4) 4-8 smoked mackerel fillets (depending on size) 1kg (2.2lbs) new or salad potatoes (any small potatoes will do) 200g packet or a large bunch of watercress 3 spring onions 1 red pepper 1 hard-boiled egg 60ml (4tblsp) of French Dressing (or just mix 45ml (3tblsp) virgin olive oil with 15ml (1tblsp) of lemon juice) Halve the largest potatoes and boil in salted water for 10 minutes, drain and let them cool a little. Chop up the watercress roughly and flake the mackerel. Chop up the onion, pepper and boiled egg. Mix everything in with the potatoes and add the dressing just before serving.

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Charity News

Join the team from the Diabetes Research & Wellness Foundation for their annual Diabetes Wellness Weekend at the historic and imposing Elvetham Hotel. This special event is aimed at people living with diabetes who would like to learn more about their condition in a friendly and supportive environment. A varied programme of talks, workshops, gentle exercise classes, exhibitors and entertainment will take place all under one roof in this private country setting. Whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes or a general interest in diabetes, the weekend will provide you with a wonderful platform to learn more about your diabetes and get to grips with it, so you can change your life for the better. You will also get the chance to meet and make friends with other like-minded people.

COOKERY DEMONSTRATION for glaucoma charity at the 50+ show

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Every year thousands of people put their faith and trust in Cats Protection when looking for a new addition to the family.

Behind each volunteer and member of staff is a wealth of experience and expertise which means when you adopt one of our cats, you can feel safe in the knowledge that he has been given the best possible care.

When he leaves Cats Protection, your cat will have been treated to a top-to-tail medical.

This means he will have been: , Fully examined by a veterinary surgeon , Vaccinated at least once against flu and enteritis , Treated against fleas, roundworm and tapeworm , Neutered if old enough , Microchipped

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We also provide four weeks’ free insurance (terms and conditions apply) giving invaluable peace of mind and reassurance as you and your cat embark upon this lifelong friendship.

All he needs now is a loving home to make his dreams come true – over to you!

T: 03000 12 12 12 E: helpline@cats.org.uk W: www.cats.org.uk Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) and SC037711 (Scotland)

be achieved without the contribution of its volunteers, who support the disabled guests in the charity’s centres and accompany visually impaired people on holiday. Vitalise runs one of the largest and most diverse volunteer programmes of any UK charity, providing inspirational volunteering OPPORTUNITIES FOR IN EXCESS OF

individuals of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities each year.

An estimated six million disabled people in the UK exist below the poverty line. They struggle to meet the cost of their care and find statutory support for all but their most basic needs inadequate and difficult to access. Despite the fact that regular breaks are essential for their emotional and physical wellbeing, a great many disabled people and carers are forced by lack of funds to forego the opportunity to take a break, no matter how short.

Vitalise is determined that nobody should have to miss out on the opportunity to take a break for financial

Vitalise

challenges what respite care is and what it can achieve.Vitalise enables people with disabilities to take time out from their daily routine and enjoy an energising change of scene. Carefully selected activities and excursions, designed to stimulate and inspire, enable the charity’s guests to regain their vitality and confidence, while for carers, the temporary relief from caring that Vitalise provides helps restore their ability to cope and reconnect with their loved ones.

Vitalise’s drive towards innovation also extends to enhancing the lives of visually impaired people. The charity is one of only two in the UK enabling visually impaired people to explore more of the world and enjoy life-enhancing experiences. Vitalise achieves this by organising assisted group holidays in the UK and overseas, where the visually impaired holidaymakers are supported by volunteer sighted guides.

It is perhaps not surprising, given the scale of Vitalise’s ambitions, that the charity relies heavily on the help of volunteers. It would be safe to say that none of whatVitalise prides itself on could

Over the past 49 years Vitalise, a small charity with big heart, has been restoring hope and happiness into the lives of people with disabilities and carers.

For people with disabilities and those who care for them, a regular break can make the difference between coping and despair, between just existing and really living. Yet the complexity and cost of organising even the shortest of breaks often presents an insurmountable barrier.

That’s why, for thousands of people with disabilities and carers each year, Vitalise is a lifeline. The charity provides accessible, affordable breaks to those who so desperately need them at its three purpose built, accessible holiday centres in Chigwell, Southampton and Southport. Each centre provides 24hour care on call from experienced nursing and care staff and the personal support and companionship of residential volunteers. As a result the guests enjoy a relaxing break in a non-institutional, holiday environment.

But for Vitalise, providing quality care is only half the story.The charity has been quietly developing a model of care that

reasons, so the charity subsidises the cost of each break it provides through its own fundraising efforts (not a penny of the charity’s income comes from central government). For those individuals in particular financial hardship, there is a further raft of support in the form of the charity’s Joan Brander Memorial Fund (named after its venerable founder), which can provide discretionary grants.

Nobody expresses the difference that Vitalise makes each day to people’s lives more eloquently than those who benefit from the breaks it provides. This is what Vitalise guest Alex Burke had to say: “There’s nowhere else I feel so relaxed, so cared for. I become a different person when I’m here. I almost feel able-bodied for the week. I’ve been places on holiday here that I’d never imagine going to in my life, things I could never do at home. Until I found Vitalise my parents hadn’t been able to take a holiday.When I came here for the first time they went abroad for the first time in 15 years! Vitalise is a massive thing in my life.

It recharges me to such an extent that I’m feeling the benefit of it for months. I come back thinking ‘I can survive’. For the small amount of time I’m here, I’m safe, I’m free, I’m human”

For more information about Vitalise’s services or for info about ways to support Vitalise, visit www.vitalise.org.uk email info@vitalise.org.uk or call 0303 303 0147.

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Vitalise – turning respite on its head

-turning respite on its head

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GREY HAIRS

THE REGULAR PENSIONS COLUMN

UNDERSTANDING

YOUR STATE

PENSION ‘NOTHING WE CAN DO CAN CHANGE THE PAST BUT EVERYTHING WE DO CHANGES THE FUTURE’

Your State Pension Statement

By Robert Grey, Pensions Specialist Our Address: Future Pension Centre Room TB218, Tyneview Park Newcastle Upon Tyne NE98 1BA

MR GREY HAIRS 65, STATE PENSION ROAD RETIREMENTVILLE RET1 OAP

Our Phone Number 0845 300 0168 Our opening hours Mon – Fri 8:00am – 8:00pm Our fax number 0191 218 7006 If you have a textphone 0845 3000 169 www.direct.gov.uk/pensions Date: 17 April 2012

Dear Mr Grey Hairs You asked for an estimate of your State Pension Your State Pension estimate as at 17 April 2012 Total State Pension £97.22 a week This total includes your: Basic State Pension £75.22 a week Additional State Pension £22.00 a week Graduated Retirement Benefit £0.00 a week

The UK Government has recently changed the format of the information it provides to individuals about their State pension. The previous State pension forecast has now been replaced by a simpler and easier to understand two-page State pension statement.

In the first of a series of articles highlighting this new statement, Grey Hairs sets out how this looks and the information that it contains.

Grey Hairs

It is never too early to start finding out more about the State pension to see how much you will receive in retirement and when it will start to be paid (as part of your overall retirement planning). You can request your own State pension statement by contacting the Pension Service.

Their contact details can be found in the top right-hand corner of this statement.

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The next edition of Grey Hairs will look at the contents of the leaflet entitled ‘Your State Pension statement explained’ (that accompanies your statement) to help you better understand the information contained in your statement.

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The date you can get your State Pension You are due to reach your State Pension age on 10 October 2037 This is the earliest date you can get your State Pension The Government has announced further plans to change the State Pension age rules.

See the enclosed leaflet for more information.

Important information about this estimate · This estimate is based on your National Insurance record at 05 April 2011 – it not a forecast of how much State Pension you may get when you reach State Pension age. Please read theisenclosed leaflet to find out more about what this means for you. · The amounts are in ‘todays values’ which means they show how much you may receive if you were getting your State Pension now.

About you You were born on 10 October 1970 Your National Insurance number is AB123456B If you think any of these personal details is wrong, let us know straight away.

About your State Pension Your State Pension may be made up of three elements 1) Basic State Pension Basic State Pension is based on qualifying years of National Insurance contributions.

You currently need 30 qualifying years to get a full basic State Pension.

You currently have 21 qualifying years.

The full basic State Pension is £107.45 a week in 2012/2013.

2) Additional State Pension Also known as State Earnings Related Pension Scheme (SERPS) and State Second The additional State Pension is earnings related and is paid on top of any basic StatePension.

Pension you may receive.

If an amount is shown in the estimate above, this has been rounded down to the nearest £1.

3) Graduated Retirement Benefit You earned Graduated Retirement Benefit if you paid graduated National Insurance contributions between 6 April 1961 and 5 April 1975. If, during this period, you were self-employed, contributions you paid did not count towards Graduated Retirement Benefit. any Class 2 National Insurance The enclosed leaflet ‘Your State Pension statement explained’ contains importan t information about your State Pension statement and answers the most frequently asked questions about the State Pension.

Find out more about the State Pension at www.direct.gov.uk/statepension Please note this Pension Statement is not a formal decision – the amounts shown are only estimates.

You will receive a formal decision when you claim your State Pension.

Yours sincerely **** ******** Pension Centre Manager The Pension Service is part of the Department for Work and Pensions

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Entry of a BROTHERWOOD converted car starts here phone: 01935 872603 www.brotherwood.com

BROTHERWOOD Peugeot Partner EGC automatic or manual transmission

BROTHERWOOD

Volkswagen Caddy Life DSG automatic or manual transmission

BROTHERWOOD Super 5 Volkswagen ‘NEW’ Sharan DSG automatic or manual transmission

BROTHERWOOD

‘Red Label’ Kia Sedona 6 speed automatic or manual transmission

BROTHERWOOD

‘Gold Label’ Kia Sedona 6 speed automatic or manual transmission

BROTHERWOOD

Automobility Limited

Ring for comprehensive details of new and previously owned conversions, long or short term hire and Motability options

BEER HACKETT, SHERBORNE, DORSET DT9 6QP