Retirement Today November/December2011

The magazine for pre and post retirement www.retirement-today.co.uk

November/December £2.90

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Charity begins at Christmas Competitions see p23

providing help and support Plus: Life Below Stairs – true lives of Edwardian servants t 10 Minutes to table – real food in minutes t Make it count – animal adoption at Christmas

Bield Housing Association Limited 79 Hopetoun Street, Edinburgh. EH7 4QF Tel: 0131 273 4000 Fax: 0131 557 6327 Email: info@bield.co.uk Web:

www.bield.co.uk

Scottish Charity No: SC006878

Celebrating Later Life

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We improve the quality of life of older people by offering a diverse range of housing, care and other community services.

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Housing Care Housing Home and Day Care Services Community Alarm Service Management of Private Retirement Housing

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We provide a range of community services through our Volunteer and Small Grants Programmes:

Volunteer Programme – A dedicated team manage over 350 volunteers who provide befriending services, social activities and silver surfer tutors for the benefit of our tenants and service users.

Small Grants Programme – Through grant requests S w fund improvements to our tenant’s homes, communal we living areas and gardens.

W receive no government funding to support our We Volunteer or Small Grants Programme.

V T make a donation please contact Kevin Rowe, To Fundraiser at k.rowe@bield.co.uk F or telephone 0131 273 4005. o IIf you would rather make an instant £5 donation, please text LEGA11 £5 to 70070. p

WELCOME TO RETIREMENT TODAY MAGAZINE

CONTENTS 4 Life Below Stairs – True Lives of Edwardian Servants Read about real-life experiences and ďŹ rst-hand accounts of what life was really like working in a grand Edwardian house.

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8 10 Minutes to Table Some delicious recipes from Xanthe Clay’s new recipe book, for real food in minutes – no cheating.

9 Twelve Days of Christmas Details of a new collection of recipes especially for Christmas from the Vegetarian Society.

14 Books for Gifts Some of the best coffee table books selected by Maria Hann.

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16 55 Miles to go Madeleine Ferrar gives an account of her time spent in her mid-ďŹ fties as a youth hostel warden in the far north of Scotland.

18 Charity Begins at Christmas 8

s 0UBLISHED BY Amra Media Solutions Ltd The Old Lavender Mill 46a Brook Street Aston Clinton Buckinghamshire (0 %3 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.

Charities work tirelessly all year round providing help and support to the less fortunate and more vulnerable, and at Christmas time they are very much in the public eye. Rob Cope from Remember a Charity writes about how your legacy lets charitable work live on.

21 Out and About

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Read about events taking place nationally.

23 Competitions Your chance to win theatre tickets and DVD sets.

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

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24 Update Brits don’t buy into British; Downsizing is not always a viable ďŹ nancial option; Ination could reduce your purchasing power by 68% during retirement; Newly retired so poor having to seek extra work; Women delaying retirement to support their adult children.

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26 Make it Count This year let’s do our utmost to give the high street a miss and look at animal adoption. Read how this alternative gift giving is becoming increasingly popular at this time of year.

31 Charity News Read about what’s happening within

24 the world of charity.

34 Grey Hairs – the regular pensions column Annuity Awareness Campaign.

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Life Below Stairs True lives of Edwardian Servants

I Life Below Stairs

t was impossible to escape the hype and interest surrounding Downton Abbey in 2010. The most successful British period drama since Brideshead Revisted saw over ten million of us become hopelessly addicted to the drama, the décor, the class politics and the clothes! To coincide with the second series comes the release of Life Below Stairs: True Lives of Edwardian Servants.

This fascinating new book uncovers the real-life experiences and first-hand accounts of what life was really like working in a grand Edwardian house.

It explores the sometimes difficult servant-master divide, the trials and tribulations of a servant’s life, the rules and hierarchies, the scandals, the gossip, the previous down-time and much more.

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She looked at me as if I were something subhuman ‌‌ She didn’t speak a word, she just stood there looking at me as if she couldn’t believe someone like me was walking an’ breathing ‌.

I couldn’t think what was wrong.

Then at last she spoke. She said, ‘Langley, never, never on any occasion ever hand anything to me in your bare hands, always use a silver salver. Tears started to trickle down my cheeks; that someone could think that you were so low that you couldn’t even hand them anything out of your hands without it ďŹ rst being placed on a silver salver.

A ban on ‘followers’ was common to the majority of houses. The main reason this rule was put in place was to discourage boyfriends and potential suitors to the girls from coming to the house but the term also took in relations and friends, who were seen as an unwelcome distraction from daily chores. Cassell’s Household Guide declared.‘Whether “followersâ€? are allowed is a question often put by a servant on applying for a situation. Except under very rare circumstances, it is better to disallow THE PRIVILEGE )T CONTINUED @7HILE speaking on this subject, we may add that the word “followersâ€? has a very elastic meaning, and as it is difďŹ cult to draw a line between those that are unobjectionable and otherwise, no hardship can be felt in refusing to admit visitors to the kitchen save upon express permission.

With one evening off a week and a chance to go to church on Sunday it was tricky for the domestic staff to see their family, let alone their friends.

And ďŹ nding a potential spouse was incredibly difďŹ cult for some. Even within the household, any servant found ‘fraternizing’ with the opposite sex faced instant dismissal. It’s a wonder any of the young maids ever found a suitor at all.

Violet Turner recalled to author Frank Dawes, ‘We weren’t allowed a young man near the house, but I always let the cook’s young man in the back door on Friday evenings’.

Kat Brown revealed she was sacked FROM HER PARLOUR MAID S JOB IN for allowing her boyfriend into the house; ‘Of course it was forbidden h in those days in case your boyfriend might be a burglar. They could never m imagine a servant choosing someone im respectable.’ Her future husband was, re actually, a baker from Fulham Road. ac

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s Do not walk in the garden unless permitted, or unless you know that all the family are out; and be careful to walk quietly when there; on no account be noisy. s Noisiness is considered bad manners. s Always move quietly about the house, and do not let your voice be heard by the family unless necessary. s Never sing or whistle at your work where the family would be likely to hear you. s Do not call out from room to room and if you are a housemaid, be careful not only to do your work quietly but to keep out of sight as much as possible. s Never begin to talk to the ladies and gentlemen, unless it be to deliver a message or ask a necessary question. s Do not talk to your fellow servants or the children of the family in the passages or sitting rooms, or in the presence of ladies and gentlemen. s Always answer when you receive an order or a reproof either, ‘yes ma’am’ or ‘I am very sorryy ma’am’ to show you have heard. s Should you be required to walk with a lady or gentleman, in order to carry a parcel or otherwise, always keep a few paces behind. s Do not smile at droll stories told in your presence or seem in any way to notice, or enter into, the family conversation, or the talk at table, or with visitors.

The maids were considered so lowly that should they need to hand a family member or visitor a letter or parcel, they were to do so on a silver platter to minimise the risk of physical contact. If they were obliged to lift something by hand, they were to lay it on a table nearest the recipient. This was one rule that kitchen maid Margaret Langley, later 0OWELL FELL FOUL OF WHEN SHE STARTED out in Hove. One morning, while she was cleaning the front door, the newsboy came by with the papers.

As she took them her mistress, Mrs Clydesdale, descended the stairs and Margaret offered her the papers.

Followers

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Life Below Stairs

As soon as any servant took a position in a house-hold they were subject to a long list of dos and don’ts –some issued by their mistress and some by their downstairs superiors.

Most establishments had the rules written on cardboard or framed paper that was then hung in the kitchen or in the servant’s hall. Those ‘rules’ that were not on the list, and which differed from house to house, they would pick up along the way, it was hoped before their ignorance of them got them into trouble.

Most of the codes of conduct revolved around being as unobtrusive as possible.

Although Edwardian families liked to be able to afford the armies of maids that ran around below stairs, they didn’t wish to see or hear them at any time. Most of the lowlier servants never spoke to their mistress or master, even if their paths crossed, and this was encouraged in the many regulations recommended at the time. The kitchen staff rarely left the basement and should a parlour maid or chambermaid pass a member of the family they were expected to stand against the wall and look down at the oor.

One contemporary servants’ guide advised. ‘Always “give room�; that is, if you encounter one of your betters in the house or on the stairs, you are to make yourself as invisible as possible, turning yourself toward the wall and adverting your eyes.’ A booklet produced by the Ladies’ Sanitary Association IN ENTITLED 2ULES &OR THE -ANNERS OF 3ERVANTS IN Good Families, laid out a list of rules which would have made a young girl’s head spin. What follows are a few of the major ones.

This is a small sample of the strictt regulations governing the daily livess of servants. Other requirementss included being punctual at meall times, having all doors locked byy A CERTAIN TIME SUCH AS PM

when the servants’ hall also had to be cleared and closed, and payingg for breakages out of meagre wages..

Gambling, swearing and drinking to excess were banned and the femalee staff were forbidden to smoke.

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01471 888449 astar@smo.uhi.ac.uk

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Breaking the rules, or being seen to, meant swift and often severe punishment. This could range from a ‘tongue-lashing’, usually enough to put the wind up the inexperienced maid, to dismissal with no references, or ‘characters’, a terrifying prospect for most domestic servants.The favourite sanction was the denial of the little time off they had, as there were so few pleasures in life.

One servant recalled losing her day off for the heinous crime of feeding lumps of sugar from her own ration to a black horse on the farm where she worked.

Some were a little more eccentric in their punishments.

4HE TH $UKE OF 0ORTLAND 7ILLIAM John CavendishBentinck-Scott, became a recluse in the late nineteenth century and hated his female servants to see him. If he passed any of them in the corridors, he sent them outside to skate on a specially constructed ice rink.

While the domestic staff devoted sixteen hours a day to backbreaking chores, mistresses often rewarded their efforts with suspicion of dishonesty and idleness. Some would employ subterfuge to test the honesty of the staff. The most common method was to slip coins under the rugs and down the side of upholstered chairs. If the coin was removed and not declared, the housemaid was deemed to be a thief and, if the coin was undiscovered, she was a shirker.

Religious Fervour Society households often used religion as a tool for keeping their domestic staff in check. By drumming passages from the scriptures about hard work and cleanliness into them they reinforced the message that the hierarchy that kept the upper-class employers at the top and the workravaged servants at the bottom was all part of God’s plan. Employers liked to believe they were guardians of their servants’ moral and that they need to be taught how to behave by their

Addressing the th Servants educated betters. ‘They didn’t worry about the long hours you put in, the lack of freedom and the poor wages, so long as you worked hard and you knew that God was in Heaven and that He’d arranged for it that you worked down below and laboured, and that they lived upstairs in comfort and luxury, that was alright with them’, WROTE -ARGARET 0OWELL @) USED TO THINK how incongruous it was when the Reverend used to say morning prayers and just before they were over he’d say, “Now let us all count our blessings�. I thought, well, it would take a lot longer to count yours than it would mine’.

Religious mantras hung around the servants’ area included such messages as ‘Cleanliness comes next to Godliness’ and from Ecclesiastes, ‘Whatever your hand ďŹ nds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom’.

No doubt they omitted those less convenient to their way of thinking, such as the famous line from Exodus which commands that Christians should ‘Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy’, and continues ‘On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, not your manservant or maidservant.’ Christian societies were keen to get in on the act and issued numerous pamphlets for mistresses and maids on THE SUBJECT OF SERVANTS MORALS )N THE 3OCIETY FOR 0ROMOTING #HRISTIAN Knowledge published a booklet which advised staff not to worry about wages as a ‘safe, happy home is of greater consequence’. Not to lose their temper if the steps they had just scrubbed were instantly splattered with mud, not to gossip with tradesmen or servants and not to read ‘silly sensational stories’ in the ‘poisonous publications which are brought to the back doors of gentlemen’s homes’. Above all, it counselled, a servant must remember to pray carefully and regularly.

In his memoirs, Eric Horne recalled the country house of an unnamed peer where he worked as a footman, and the staff having to sit opposite the family during the Sunday service.‘One Sunday the Bold Bad Baron sent for the butler and asked him of we had been drinking too much beer as he noticed several of the men were asleep during the sermon.The parson was brother to the Baron, the living was in his gift, so of course he preached a sermon to please him; generally about the lower orders being submissive to their betters.

No wonder we fell asleep’.

Those who lived upstairs were also expected to adhere to strict rules of etiquette in their treatment of the staff, particularly in how each member was addressed. The name used by the master and mistress was part of the rigid hierarchy and it would be an insult to the higher ranks to stray from the usual titles.

The following is a guide on how to address servants adapted from the Channel Four series An Edwardian Country House. s The Butler should be addressed courteously by his surname. s The Housekeeper should be given the title of ‘Missus ‌ regardless of marital status s The Chef de Cuisine should be addressed as such, or by the title Monsieur ‌ s It is customary for your Lady’s Maid to be given the title of ‘Miss ‌ regardless of whether she is single or married. It is however, acceptable for the mistress to address her by her Christian name/ s It is very much the custom in the old houses that lower servants, when entering into service, adopt new names given to them by their masters.You may follow this tradition and rename certain members of your staff. Common names for matching footmen are James and John. Emma is popular for housemaids. s It is not expected that you take the trouble to remember the names of all your staff. Indeed, in order to avoid obliging you to converse with them, lower servants will endeavour to make themselves invisible to you. As such they should not be acknowledged â– An extract from Life Below Stairs by Alison Maloney, published by Michael O’Mara Books.

Life Below Stairs: True Lives of Edwardian Servants by Alison Maloney is published by Michael O’Mara Books, priced £9.99.

Readers can order it for the special price of ÂŁ7 with free p&p by calling 01903 828503 and quoting LBS/ RT (UK mainland only, while stocks last) st)

Life Below Stairs

Crime and Punishment

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10 Minutes to Table

Speedy fish soup This dish is a particular favourite of Loyd Grossman, my co-presenter on the ‘10 minutes to table’ videos. He can’t quite believe it’s ready so quickly, when it tastes so sophisticated. Neither can I, but there it is.

Serves 2 1 leek 30g (1oz) butter

S

upermarkets are full of slickly packaged, pre-pared dishes and fast food is readily available on almost every street corner, so is cooking at home really worth the effort?

10 Minutes to Table by Xanthe Clay proves that the answer to this question is an emphatic ‘yes’.

C Cooking at home is almost always the ch cheaper, healthlier, tas tastier and, as proved by Xanthe, faster option.

X Here are just some of H our favourites. ou R Recipes from 10 Minutes to Table by Xanthe Clay, pu published by Mitchell B Beazley.

IS ISBN 978 1 84533 646 2

fat pinch of saffron 1⁄4 bottle of white wine (nothing heavily oaked) a dozen (or so) mussels about 350g (12oz) mixed fish fillets (salmon and pollack are good) 3 tbsp crème fraîche 6 raw prawns few sprigs of chervil or flat-leaf parsley 3 tbsp harissa or rouille toast or crostini, to serve 1. Put the kettle on to boil. Slice the leek and wash it.

2. Melt the butter in a small pan (with a lid) and add the leeks. Stir, cover and leave to cook over a medium heat for 5 minutes.

10 minutes to table

Spring of rosemary 3tbsp butter 8oz/225g papardelle a slice of good bread

4. Put the wine in a pan and boil hard until reduced by half. Pour in the saffron and its liquid.

Small bunch of flat-leaved parsley

7. Stir in the mussels and any juices in the pan. Taste and add seasoning, then scatter with the chervil or parsley leaves.

Dot on the harissa or rouille and spread the rest on the toast or crostini and serve with the soup.

A few minutes less: Use a jar of good fish soup (French brands are often the best) and bring to just below simmering point. Add chunks of fish, mussels, or prawns and heat for 3 minutes, or until just cooked through.

Top with a good dollop of crème fraîche and chopped chives, and eat with crusty bread.

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12oz/340g mushrooms

a clove of garlic, peeled

6. Pour 300ml (1⁄2 pint) of boiling water into the leek pan and stir in the crème fraîche. Add the fish and prawns and simmer gently for 1–2 minutes until almost cooked.

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3. Crumble the saffron into 1⁄2 teacupful of boiling water.

5. Clean the mussels, rejecting any which feel too heavy, are damaged or don’t shut when firmly tapped on the sink.

Pull off the beards. Rinse quickly.

Add the mussels to the pan and cover.

Cook for 1 minute or so until the mussels open. Throw away any shells that remain shut. Meanwhile, cut the fish into good-sized chunks.

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Papadelle with mushrooms, rosemary and lemon crumbs

1 lemon

1. Boil the kettle.

2. Meanwhile, melt 1tbsp butter in a frying pan (one with a lid).Cut the mushrooms into four if large and turn in the butter, adding a pinch of salt. Chop the rosemary and add that too. Cover and cook over a medium-heat for three minutes (to wilt the mushrooms slightly) then take the lid off and continue cooking.

3. Pour the boiling water into a large pan, add 1 tsp salt it and the pasta. Cook until just al dente. Drain, reserving a teacupful of pasta water.

4. While the pasta is cooking, cut the crusts off the bread and whiz into breadcrumbs in a small food processor.

5. In another frying pan, melt 1tbsp butter and add the crumbs. Crush in the garlic.

Cook the crumbs until crisp and brown.

Grate in a little lemon zest (about quarter of the lemon’s worth) and stir in the chopped parsley.

6. Mix the pasta with the mushrooms, adding a splash of the pasta cooking water to loosen the juices caramelised on the bottom of the pan. Stir in the last of the butter.

7. Serve the mushroom pasta in a wide bowl with the crumbs scattered over.

Butternut squash, chorizo and prawns Chorizo is one of those transforming ingredients that adds flavour and colour in spades to any dish. Choose a ‘picante’ or spicy chorizo for the most punch, and do try to buy sustainably produced prawns.

Serves 2 1⁄2 butternut squash 1 red chilli (optional) olive oil 1 tsp mustard seed (optional) 200g (7oz) or so raw, shelled prawns

The Twelve Days of Christmas A new recipe collection for festive feasting

Festive Figs with Feta This simple starter is easy to prepare and looks very impressive.

If the figs available are small, serve two per person.

Serves 4 Preparation time 15 minutes Cooking time 5 minutes Ingredients 4 ripe figs 1 tbsp mango chutney 100g feta cheese, crumbled 1 red chilli, sliced into thin strips

60g (2oz) chorizo ‘picante’ 1 lime 1. Peel the squash with a potato peeler and slice it into pencil-thick rounds (no more, or it won’t cook through in time). Thinly slice the chilli, if using.

Heat a pan with a splash of olive oil and 1 tsp mustard seed, if using, until shimmeringly hot. Sprinkle the squash with salt and cook in the oil, with the chilli. Turn the squash after 3 minutes or so, until lightly browned.

2. Skewer the prawns on eight bamboo skewers. Heat a little more oil in a heavy frying pan, slice the chorizo and chuck it in. Cook the prawns in the red oil until just done.

3. Mix the squash with a handful of salad leaves (wild rocket is ideal) and pile on a plate.

Lay the prawn skewers on top, with the chorizo alongside. Dribble the chorizo oil over and finish with a sqeeze of lime juice.

T

he Twelve Days of Christmas is a new festive recipe collection from the Vegetarian Society. This collection has fourteen recipes and is guaranteed free from partridges, French hens and geese and there isn’t a turkey to be seen. Instead on offer is a unique vegetarian alternative.

The recipe collection is available free of charge from the Vegetarian Society, an educational charity.

Visit www.vegsoc.org/christmas or by tel 0161 925 2000.

Salad 200g rocket leaves 2 oranges 200g walnut pieces 2 tbsp sugar 3 tablespoons water Reduced balsamic vinegar (available in most supermarkets) or place 4 tbsp of ordinary balsamic vinegar in a pan and gently heat for 5 minutes. Allow to cool before using.

Method 1. Wash the figs and trim the top.

Carefully slice each fig to divide them into 4 sections without fully slicing through.

2. Place a little mango chutney into each fig and top with the crumbled feta cheese.

Place to one side ready to grill.

3. In a large pan heat the water and dissolve the sugar. Add the walnuts and continue to cook until most of the water has evaporated. Using a spoon lift the walnuts out of the sugar mixture and allow to cool.

4. Using a sharp knife remove the peel and pith of the orange.

Carefully work your way around the orange to cut out each orange segment just inside the segment membrane.

5. Grill the figs for 7 minutes under a moderate heat until the cheese starts to bubble.

6. Assemble the salad with the figs in the middle. Dress with reduced balsamic vinegar and garnish the figs with finely sliced strips of chilli. ©The Vegetarian Society 2011 RETIREMENT

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The 12 days of Christmas

handful of salad leaves

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Statin Side-Effects – A ‘signiďŹ cant problem’ with ‘minimal awareness’

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HERE ARE APPROXIMATELY MILLION PEOPLE IN the UK taking statin drugs to reduce their LDL cholesterol.

As with most medications, there are side-effects associated with statin use, one of which is statin myopathy.

The effects of statin myopathy include unpleasant muscle tenderness, weakness and pain. Alarmingly, a recent paper by the University of Kentucky, USA, suggests that this ‘signiďŹ cant problem’ is currently being ignored by clinicians and given ‘no emphasis’ by clinical investigators.

More than one in ten affected

Statin Side-Effects

4HE PAPER PUBLISHED IN THE JOURNAL !NGIOLOGY *ULY

ESTIMATES THAT OF STATIN USERS SUFFER FROM STATIN RELATED MYOPATHY 4HAT COULD AMOUNT TO OVER

people in the UK. In fact, the impact of this side-effect has been strong enough to force thousands of people on cholesterol lowering drugs to stop their medication. )N A STUDY AT .OTTINGHAM 5NIVERSITY WAS conducted using the records of more than two million PATIENTS AGED TO Researchers found that some statin users were six times more likely to suffer muscle damage, such as myopathy, as well as a host of other serious conditions including insomnia, constipation, headaches, loss of appetite and nerve pain in the hands and feet.

Myopathy, which may be irreversible, is six times higher for men on statins and three times higher for women, according to the study.

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Is Q10 supplementation the answer? )N A DOUBLE BLIND PLACEBO CONTROLLED TRIAL FROM THE Department of Surgery , Cardiology Division, at Stony Brook University, New York suggested that a simple vitamin supplement may alleviate the symptoms of statin myopathy. #O1 IS AN ESSENTIAL COMPONENT OF THE ENERGY production within every single cell of the body. Think of it as the ‘spark plug’ which enables all cells to function.

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It is especially important in those cells that consume huge amounts of energy, such as the heart and other muscles. Therefore, a deďŹ ciency may lead to an impairment of muscle energy metabolism and contribute to the development of myopathy and muscle symptoms, often described in statin patients.

Cholesterol lowering drugs effectively block the synthesis of LDL cholesterol, but at the same time it is thought that they disrupt the body’s SYNTHESIS OF COENZYME 1 CO1

thereby increasing the risk of muscle weakness and liver dysfunction.

Dr. Giuseppe Caso, who led the STUDY INTO THE EFFECT OF CO1 ON myopathic symptoms in statin patients STATED h2ESULTS SUGGEST THAT CO1 supplementation may decrease muscle pain associated with statin treatment, THUS CO1 SUPPLEMENTATION MAY offer an alternative to stopping treatment with these vital drugs.�

CoQ10 reduces LDL cholesterol by 15% A German study published in January FURTHER SUPPORTS THE ROLE OF CO1 SUPPLEMENTATION IN THE treatment of cholesterol levels. The $EPARTMENT OF -OLECULAR 0REVENTION in the Institute of Human Nutrition and Food Science at ChristianAlbrechts-University of Kiel DISCOVERED THAT MG PER DAY OF THE UBIQUINOL FORM OF 1 REDUCES ,$, CHOLESTEROL BY AT LEAST in humans.

4HIS SUGGESTS THAT CO1 supplementation may not only counteract some of the common side-effects associated with taking cholesterol-lowering drugs, but it may also help control LDL cholesterol in its own right.

Health experts have recommended CO1 TO STATIN PATIENTS FOR YEARS In Canada, it is a legal requirement for statins to carry a precautionary WARNING REGARDING CO1 DEPLETION The USA also has concerns about THE SAFETY OF STATINS WITHOUT CO1 supplementation. )N $R *ULIAN 7HITAKER

a best selling author, launched a petition with the Food and Drug !DMINISTRATION &$!

CALLING ON the US government to advise all STATIN PATIENTS TO TAKE MG OF SUPPLEMENTAL CO1 TO SAFEGUARD their health.

Don’t stop taking statins Despite the obvious concerns, it is not advisable to ignore a doctor’s advice and cease statin therapy. In fact, it could be life-threatening. A simple solution to the problem of statin myopathy could be sought at a local health food shop. To ensure you GET AN EFFECTIVE CO1 SUPPLEMENT

ensure that it has an oil-based preparation, is blister-packed and is made to pharmaceutical standards, with certiďŹ cates of analysis available to support this â– Go to q10.co.uk or call 0800 591 756 for more information.

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Code: RT

Keeping Christmas

under wraps

With the festive season fast approaching, Retirement Today speaks to the Financial Ombudsman – the free service with the power to sort out financial problems - for some seasonal tips to help you keep your costs down!

No matter how you’re planning on spending your Christmas this year, keeping on top of your costs now can help take the sting out of the new year. And it’s not just budgeting – there are lots of ways you can save money or avoid money-related mishaps this season.

Twelve Christmas tips from the ombudsman: Make a list: Keeping a list of your expenses can be a helpful way to keep costs down at Christmas. Set yourself a realistic budget for everyone you’re buying gifts for. Knowing your numbers means you can make the most of seasonal offers and cut-price deals – and budget for unexpected expenses.

Cut costs together: If you and your friends or family fancy spreading the cost of Christmas between you, why not organise a ‘Secret Santa’. Agree a maximum price limit for each gift, pick a name out of the hat and agree a date to meet and share the presents out!

Buy now, pay later: If you’re thinking of buying a large gift, you may be planning on using interest-free credit as a way to save money and spread costs. If you intend on paying the credit off early make sure you know when the deal ends, as interest rates can be high if you miss the deadline.

Shop around: Look out for discounts and compare prices between shops or by looking online. If you’re buying online, make sure you’re happy to hand over your card details.

Consider paying using a credit card as it might offer you more protection if something goes wrong with the item you’re paying for – but remember to pay off your card in full, or you could end up paying more.

Keeping Christmas under wraps

Keep an eye on your cards: Interest rates can vary considerably on different credit cards, so check the current rate before you spend.

Keep on top of what you’re paying out – and if you can’t clear the whole balance you might look to pay what you can over the minimum payment.

12

Watch your warranty: If you’re tempted to take out an extended warranty for a present on the spur of the moment, make sure you’re not already covered by your home insurance.

Presents with a price tag: While many people are budgeting for Christmas this year, there may still be some high-value presents wrapped up under the tree. Check your contents insurance policy – you may find you’re not fully covered if these items are stolen or damaged.

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Accidents happen: A house full of people at Christmas can result in breakages and spills.

Accidental damage policies are often sold as ‘add-ons’ to contents insurance policies to cover these mishaps. If you’re not sure if you’re covered, check with your insurer.

Keep things hidden: If you’re doing a lot of shopping for the festive period, don’t leave your purchases on display in your vehicle.

Most insurance policies won’t cover you for items that are stolen that are left in full view of passers by.

Keys in the motor: It could be a white Christmas this year. If you use a vehicle to get around in cold weather, watch out if you’re warming up your engine - don’t leave the keys in the vehicle or leave it unattended.You could find you’re not covered by your motor insurance policy if it gets stolen.

Empty home: If you’re planning to take an extended break with friends or family this year, check with your insurer before leaving your home ‘unattended’. If you’re away for a long time you may not be covered for the whole period your home is empty. And if you’re taking a holiday, check your travel insurance policy in advance so you know what you’re covered for. Keep your policy documents and contact telephone numbers to hand too, in case you need to make claim.

Bank holiday budgeting: Keep an eye on payment dates for bills and regular payments like direct debits and standing orders during bank holidays. Bank holidays are not ‘working days’ so payments might be delayed - or bounced if you don’t have cleared funds in your account.

The majority of people with have a hasslefree holiday season; however, if a problem arises and you can’t sort it out with a bank or insurer, the ombudsman may be able to help ■ Contact: 0300 123 9 123 http://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk/

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13

BEST

Books

Nothing beats a carefully chosen book as the perfect Christmas gift, Maria Hann chooses some of the best.

Romantic English Homes R

Tante Hertha’s Viennese Kitchen A book of family recipes

Robert O’Bryne R

Monica Meehan and Maria von Baich

C Cico Books (RRP £29.99)

New Holland Publishers (RRP £24.99)

T is the definitive book for lovers of English Style.

This Writer Robert O’Byrne features 14 English homes each W ooffering its own unique take on English style. Thankfully the author hasn’t just included large manor houses th bbut has looked at smaller residences too such as a Northumbrian farmhouse. The book has beautiful colour N pphotographs throughout to inspire the reader. A must for all lovers of quintessentially English style. fo

For those who want more than just recipes this iis also l a piece i off social i l hi history.

Baronness Hertha Freiin von Winkler ( Tante Hertha ), living and working in Vienna in the early 1900’s was known for her fantastic food. This book contains over 100 of her original recipes adapted for today’s cook. Beautifully illustrated throughout, the reader is taken on a journey through turn of the century Vienna including many vintage photos of family members. A beautiful addition to the modern kitchen.

Notes from a Swedish Kitchen 1001 MOVIES you must see before you die Stephen Jay Schneider Octupus Books (RRP £20.00) This is the definitive book for all movie buffs.

Beginning with the 14 minute French film, Le Voyage Dans La Lune (A Trip To The Moon) and ending with the 2010 remake True Grit, the book covers almost 100 years of cinema. Many of the movies might be expected, Gone with the Wind, Casa Blanca, The Godfather, they’re all there but it also offers many lesser known and generally forgotten gems ffor the film buff to seek out. A definite for under the Christmas tree.

EExploring the IIslands s O Of Scotland Julian J u Holland Lincoln (RRP £17.99) FFrances r For those with ambitions to Fo vis one or more of the Scottish visit Islands but can’t quite make up Isl their minds then this is the book the to help you make your choice. The au author Julian Holland explores eac each island in detail explaining how to get there, the Island’s his history, what makes it unique and key places of interest. This is a must have book for anyone who plans to visit a Scottish Island or a taster for those thinking about it. Beautifully illustrated throughout and a perfect Christmas gift.

The Wallace Collection Catalogue of Glass and Limoges Painted Enamels Suzanne Higgott

Best Books

Paul Holberton Pubishing (RRP £150)

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There are approximately sixty glasses and thirty painted enamels in the Wallace Collection and this catalogue publishes them all together for the first time. There are exquisitely illustrated images of Limoges painted enamels including key figures of the French court reflecting the fashion for these enamels at the highest level of French society.

The glassware is mainly Venetian or made in the continent in the Venetian style from the 14th to 17th century and Limoges painted enamels from the 15th to 17th Century. A worthwhile addition for the serious collector or indeed novice collector RETIREMENT

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MARGARETA Schildt Landgren New Holland Publishers (RRP £19.99) Everyone’s aware of the impact Scandinavian literature has made so perhaps it’s now time to look at some of the culinary heritage the region has to offer. The writer shares antidotes from her own kitchen along side over 100 recipes ranging from the traditional to the modern. This makes an excellent choice for f those who wish to experiment with something new for Christmas with a wide range of recipes including Christmas Ham, Christmas Sausages and Chocolate Nut Squares. The book is beautifully illustrated with recipe and location photography.

A must for any lover of Swedish culture.

Perfect Tables P William Yeoward W Cico Books ( RRP £16.99 ) C In International designer and shop owner William Yeoward shares hi his secrets in turning table settings into an art form. The book sh showcases 24 different tables to inspire the reader to create the perfect setting. This is a must buy book for the host or hostess who pe w wants to create the ultimate ambiance and stun guests with a visual di display before hopefully providing a meal worthy of the backdrop.

A perfect pre Christmas buy.

The Vintage Tea Party Book Angel Adoree Mitchell Beazley (RRP £20.00) I loved the feel of this book, it is billed as a complete guide to hosting your perfect tea party. Filled with unusual tempting recipes that would be sure to keep your guests talking, Onion and Potato Flowers, Cream Cheese andd C Cucumber C Ch b Hearts, Chocolate Coconut Macaroons to name but a few. The author is the owner of London’s Vintage Patisserie. The book offers much more than just recipes, and every fine detail of hosting the perfect tea party is covered. Hair and makeup, picking the perfect vintage dress, parlour games, table setting to make your party sparkle. The perfect book for lovers of vintage.

AVE R AR D P

: RICH

PHOTO

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All our vouchers include free entry to the Imperial War Museum Duxford.

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www.classic-wings.co.uk Follow us on RETIREMENT

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15

55 Miles to go

By Madeleine Ferrar

T

55 Miles to go

HE YEAR WAS AND ) WAS IN MY ďŹ fty-ďŹ fth year when I gave up my permanent, full-time job as a social worker with a local authority and embarked on a new, albeit eeting, career as warden of a youth hostel in the village of Helmsdale, in the far north of Scotland.

It turned out to be such an intense experience that I frequently relive that glorious summer.

Chance plays a part in most aspects of life, and the Helmsdale experience was no exception.

Having been taken on by the Scottish Youth Hostels Association as a summer manager, I asked to be posted to the hostel in Kirk Yetholm, as it happened to be near my own home in the Scottish Borders.Yetholm had already been given to another applicant, however, and I was offered the hostel in Helmsdale instead. So keen was I to spend the summer as a hostel warden, I accepted, without checking the whereabouts of this place I had never heard Rounding the bend of. When I looked Helmsdale up on the map on the A9 just past AND SAW THAT IT WAS ONLY MILES FROM *OHN Portgower, I got my O’Groats, I was a little dismayed. Still on the ďŹ rst glimpse of the mainland, though, I reminded myself – and it had a railway station. place that would be my even I set off in the early morning in the middle home for the next six OF !PRIL IN MY FADED RED 0OLO EXCITED BY months. the adventure that lay ahead. My ďŹ rst sight of Helmsdale did not disappoint. Rounding THE BEND ON THE ! JUST PAST 0ORTGOWER ) GOT MY lRST glimpse of the place that would be my home for the next six months. The sea was squinting in the spring sunshine, and the colourfully painted ďŹ shermen’s cottages lining the harbour were nestled beneath the dramatic, gorsecovered Bunillidh Creag. On every occasion that I return to Helmsdale I recall the moment that I ďŹ rst glimpsed this picturesque village. It was a truly magical moment.

It took no time at all to ďŹ nd the hostel, as it occupies a prominent position on the main road. The main door was locked and bolted, as the hostel shuts down over the winter period. I had been instructed to collect the key from a neighbour, who also happened to be the local postmistress.

Elizabeth gave me the key, and insisted on welcoming me to my new post with a cup of tea and a slice of fruit cake.

It was much appreciated after a long drive, but I didn’t stop long as I was eager to explore my new home.

When I ďŹ nally got to turn the key in the lock and push open the door to inspect my surroundings, I was somewhat deated. The previous warden had not done a good job of cleaning the hostel prior to shutting up shop for the winter, and I could see that my work was cut

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out for me to get the hostel ready for the ofďŹ cial opening at the end of the week. For some mysterious reason the hostel was full of autumn leaves. How they had blown under the door I could not imagine. To top it all, I couldn’t ďŹ nd the switch to turn on the electricity.

The hostel felt cold and damp, and it was beginning to get dark; it hadn’t occurred to me to bring a torch. Eventually I found a mattress and some bedding and went to bed.

I’d sort everything out in the morning.

I was woken at dawn by the sound of trucks invading MY BEDROOM 4HE SOUND OF SOUTH BOUND LORRIES CHANGING gear as they rounded the bend on the approach to the VILLAGE ACTED AS MY ALARM CLOCK THROUGHOUT MY STAY Once awake, my craving for caffeine was strong enough to motivate me to ďŹ nd the electric switch, only to realise that I didn’t have any milk. I set off to ďŹ nd the village shop, and was welcomed to the village, for a second time, with a mug of coffee, courtesy of Spar. Life in Helmsdale was beginning to look promising.

The hostel, a rather stark building with a tin roof, had started life as a gymnasium for the local school children.

During World War II it was commandeered by the Home Guard, and after the war, it came under the ownership of the Scottish Youth Hostels Association. I worked hard to get the hostel spick and span in time for the opening.

It wasn’t busy at the start of the season, but the numbers quickly built up, to the extent that during the peak period the hostel was pretty much full every night.

A huge variety of people stayed in the hostel, but there was one category of visitor that, to a great extent, CHARACTERISED THE (ELMSDALE HOSTEL THE END TO ENDER End-to-enders are people who cycle – or walk – from the MOST SOUTHERLY POINT OF 'REAT "RITAIN ,AND S %ND TO THE MOST NORTHERLY *OHN / 'ROATS 4HE JOURNEY IS SOMETIMES called Lejog or Jogle, depending on which way you do it.

Many more people do it on bicycle than on foot, and A SURPRISING NUMBER OF PEOPLE DO IT EVERY YEAR NO ONE knows precisely how many. Helmsdale was, for many, the ďŹ nal stage on this journey, and the road sign just north of THE HOSTEL STATES @*OHN / 'ROATS MILES #YCLISTS WOULD typically sign in at the hostel and inform me that they had MILES TO GO

Most of the visitors were delightful, and I felt privileged to meet them, hear their stories, and, in a small way, become part of their ‘story’. Don’t be fooled by the term @YOUTH HOSTEL -ANY OF THE HOSTELLERS WERE OVER AND A good few were much older than that. I will never forget the retired medical practitioner in his eighties, walking for the tenth time from John O’Groats to Land’s End. When I asked him why he repeatedly undertook such an arduous task he replied, ‘Well, I never married, so what else am I going to do in my retirement?’ The villagers, also, were a Sandy, a local pleasure to know. David, the ďŹ sherman, would LOLLIPOP MAN AGED OVER WAS leave crabs on the stationed across the road from hostel steps for the hostel. He would put out rubbish bins if I forgot, so me, when he’d had my that I didn’t miss a collection. an exceptionally And Sandy, a local ďŹ sherman, good catch would leave crabs on the hostel steps for me, when he’d had an exceptionally good catch. With their small acts of kindness, these people displayed a genuine, yet understated, hospitality that I came to associate with Helmsdale.

Summer came, and the days lengthened. In fact, it hardly GOT DARK AT ALL ) HAD BOUGHT FOR a IN A COMMUNITY auction a portable black and white TV, and we all gathered ROUND THE SET TO WATCH AS !NDY -URRAY A RAFlSH YEAR old wildcard, crashed out of his ďŹ rst Wimbledon in the third round. By this time the summer season was well under way, and the village calendar became busier than ever, with ower shows, garden parties, Harbour Day, and ďŹ nally, the Highland Games. I learnt how to knit socks WITH HELP FROM HOSTEL GUESTS IN PARTICULAR AN ELDERLY !USTRIAN LADY MAKE RAG RUGS FROM SACKING DONATED BY

THE LOCAL UNDERTAKER BAKE SCONES FOR WEARY CYCLISTS AND MAKE ELDERmOWER CHAMPAGNE 4O THIS DAY ) CALL THIS CONCOCTION "UNILLIDH BUBBLY ) EVEN GOT TO PAN FOR GOLD AT NEARBY +ILDONAN And this was also the year that Sudoku seemed to become a national pastime.

The long summer days eventually gave way to autumn. The trees were beginning to turn, there was a distinct chill in the air and the nights were drawing in. It was time to close down the hostel for another year, pack up and go home. The hostel was SOLD DURING MY TIME AS WARDEN SO WAS THE LAST YEAR IT WAS run under the auspices of the Scottish Youth Hostels Association.

Another chapter in the hostel’s history was coming to an end.

I left Helmsdale one early morning at the beginning of October, before the village had woken up. I locked the door, posted the key through Elizabeth’s letterbox and HAD ONE LAST LOOK AT THE PLACE THAT IS MILES from John O’Groats, but probably the nearest I will ever get to It was time to Heaven ■close down the

hostel for another year, pack up and go home

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55 Miles to go

0800 085 2677

17

Charity L begins at

eave even a small legacy to a charity of your choice in your will, and you will be making a substantial contribution to its vital work for future generations.

Over the years gifts in wills have helped charities fund medical research, protect animals, support this country’s most vulnerable children or provide footpaths in the countryside.

There may be an Charities work tirelessly all year economic downturn, round providing help and support to the but leaving even a less fortunate and more vulnerable, and little bit of money to a at Christmas time they are very much charity, after taking care in the public eye. But, how often do we of loved ones, can make spare a thought at this festive time as to a big difference.

Leaving a gift to how they manage to survive. All charities charity is a simple form have to rely heavily on donations from the public to continue their vital work, either of giving, and one with gifts left in wills or legacies. Why not which cuts out any fears spare a thought this Christmas for your of parting with hardfavourite charity, no matter how big earned money that may or small, your contribution will make a be needed while you are real difference. still alive.

The legacy you write Rob Cope from Remember a Charity into your will today writes about how your legacy lets will not be available to charitable work live on. the charity for many years, but you will be providing your chosen charity with a vital source of income in years to come.

Your legacy can be as simple as leaving a small percentage of your estate to a charity.

This is something that anybody can do, not just the very wealthy, because charities are grateful for legacies of any size.

It’s a common myth that only the rich and famous leave money to charity when they die.

This couldn’t be any further from the truth.The reality is without the gifts left in wills, many of the charities we know and support today wouldn’t even exist.

Legacies are the foundation for many of the charities in the UK and are vital in making sure that all the good work they do can continue.

4HANKFULLY OF THE 5+ POPULATION SUPPORT CHARITIES AND WHEN ASKED OF PEOPLE say they’d happily leave a gift in their will once family and friends had been provided for.

4HE PROBLEM IS ONLY ACTUALLY DO That’s why, if we all leave some money in our wills for charity as well as our family, we can make a huge difference.

So, you don’t have to be rich and famous to make a contribution that can make a difference.

We can all do something amazing for the world just by leaving a gift in our wills to charity.

Of course, family and loved ones should always come ďŹ rst. But donations to charity in wills can sometimes mean your family avoids paying inheritance tax on your estate.

Where there’s a will, there’s a family feud goes the saying, and many people decide not to leave a legacy to charity in case their children feel cheated of inheritance.

But research from Remember A Charity SHOWS THAT NINE OUT OF PEOPLE WOULD BE

Charity begins at Christmas

Christmas

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proud of their parents leaving a gift to charity once family and friends have been look after.

And as Stephen George, chair of Remember ! #HARITY SAYS h$ESPITE WHAT MANY PARENTS MAY think, it seems many of us are very happy to see a proportion of our parents’ estate go to charity. “This perception gap may be why only seven per cent of the UK plan to leave a legacy gift. If WE COULD INCREASE THIS TO PER CENT WE COULD RAISE AN EXTRA a BILLION FOR 5+ CHARITIES AND the vital work they do.�

One of the ďŹ rst steps you can take to giving yourself permission to donate to charity longterm is to talk to your family about plans for your death.

The important point to remember is that families and close friends should still come ďŹ rst before leaving a charitable legacy – And it doesn’t have as charities welcome to be money – even the smallest gift. charities have been It’s also essential to remember that some left everything from British charities rely whole estates to so heavily on legacies antique teapots. that they account for more than two-thirds of their income.

Leaving money to a charity is therefore crucial if the charity’s good work is to continue, and if you have strong feelings about how the money should be spent, you can specify that it is for a certain use.

And it doesn’t have to be money – charities have been left everything from whole estates to antique teapots.

No matter what the legacy is, no matter how big or small, it all helps. And it doesn’t matter what your favourite charity is, whether it’s one of the major names dealing with global problems or a small organisation devoted to your area of the country.

All charities exist through gifts – and particularly gifts in wills.

What matters is the end result, which is playing your part to help the good work live on â– For further information on how you can Remember A Charity, please visit www. rememberacharity.org.uk

Making a Difference…

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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.

PLEASE HELP US IN ANY WAY YOU CAN 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

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Registered Charity Number: 236627

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£69,950 A First oor 1 Bedroom apartment for over 55’s in Northamptonshire, comprising of hall, kitchen/lounge, bedroom and 4 piece bathroom suite, double glazing, gas central heating.

Contact: Sarah Carver on 07983 974887

Learn French with the French

Group classes starting week commencing 18th September Beginners, intermediate and advanced One-to-one lessons also available daytime & evening All ages all levels including business French Further details from Parlons Francais

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Out&About...

Image courtesy of National Trust of Scotland

Culzean Castle & Country Park Maybole, Ayrshire, Scotland Sun 4 Dec - Sun 11 Dec Looking for something different to do this Christmas?

Visit The Enchanted Castle at Culzean for a Yuletide spectacle.

The Castle will be transformed by music, song and light. In each room a childhood tale will be brought to life through costumed characters who will delight the young and also bring memories flooding back to the young at heart!

Restricted access for wheelchair users. For further details Tel. 0844 493 2149 or email culzean@nts.org.uk before booking..

Limited numbers – admission by pre-booked timed tickets only.

The Spanish Line Drawings from Ribera to Picasso The Courtauld Gallery, Somerset House, London Closes 15 Jan 2012 This exhibition explores the rich, intriguing and varied territory of Spanish drawings, a field that remains relatively unknown. The Courtauld Gallery holds one of the most important collections of Spanish drawings outside Spain, totalling approximately 100 works ranging from the 16th to the 20th centuries. A selection of some 40 of the finest and most representative drawings has been chosen for the exhibition The exhibition also invites visitors to explore lesser-known treasures from the Golden Age of Spanish art, many of the works never previously exhibited.

For further information Tel. 020 7848 2526 or visit www.courtauld.org.uk

Price: Adult/Concession; £8, Adults £11.

For further information visit www.nts.org.uk

The Scottish Colourist Series: FCB Cadell Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Edinburgh Closes 18 March 2012 The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art launches an annual series of exhibitions devoted to the Scottish Colourists. Bringing together almost 80 painting, from collections across the UK. Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell, one of the four artists popularly known as ‘The Scottish Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell Interior: The Orange Blind, c.1927 Colourists’ is renowned for his stylish Oil on canvas, 112 x 86.5 portrayals of Edinburgh New Town interiors Culture and Sport Glasgow (Museums) Art Gallery and Museum, and the sophisticated society that occupied Kelvingrove presented by the Trustees of the Hamilton them; equally celebrated are his vibrantly Bequest 1928 coloured, daringly simplified still-lives of the 1920s and his evocative landscapes of the island of Ioan.

Also on display are some of the objects depicted in Cadell’s paintings, together with archival material such as letter and photographs.

If ever a Festival grew around a venue it was Edinburgh’s Scots Fiddle Festive, a fixture for one week-end which has taken place every November since 1996. This year, the main events will take place at The Queen’s Hall, synonymous with good music, and the rest of the festival will spill across the road to The King’s Hall and nearby Pollock Halls.

The Festival’s grand concerts, recitals, workshops, master-classes, informal sessions, market place, talks, café, bars, cabarets, ceilidhs and open stage promote Scottish fiddle tradition and idioms, by providing a platform for performance, education, and participation.

Admission: £7/£5 www.nationalgalleries.org

For further information visit www.scotsfiddlefestival.com

Alice in Wonderland Tate, Liverpool. 4 November 2011 – 29 January 2012 Lewis Carroll’s timeless novels, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the LookingGlass, have fascinated and inspired many generations of artists since the first novel was published over 150 years ago. This exhibition is the first to provide a comprehensive historical exploration of how the stories have influenced the visual arts, providing insight into the creation of the novels, the adoption of the text as an inspiration for artists and the revision of its key themes by artists up to the present day.

Alice in Wonderland will offer visitors a rare opportunity to view Carroll’s own drawings and photographs, alongside Victorian Alice memorabilia and John Tenniel’s preliminary drawings for the first edition of the novel.

Admission £8.00 / £6.00 www.tate.org.uk

The Royal Collection© 2011 Her Majesty Quen Elizabeth II

Fiddle 2011 Queen’s Hall, Edinburgh Friday 18-Sunday 20 November

©

Peter Blake. All rights reserved, DACS 2011

DUTCH LANDSCAPES: PAINTINGS FROM THE ROYAL COLLECTION The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle. 12 November 2011 – 11 March 2012 Dutch Landscapes: Paintings from the Royal Collection, which goes on show at The Bowes Museum, in November, brings together 38 remarkable works from the ‘golden age’ of Dutch painting, generously lent by Her Majesty The Queen.

The Museum now offers a 6 month Admission Pass, giving a cost effective opportunity to make the most of all this fabulous building has to offer, including this superb exhibition.

Incredible value for money at only £12.00, the pass enables the buyer to make unlimited return visits to the Museum within that 6 month timeframe. Passes are available to purchase on the Museum’s website, or alternatively purchase on the day of your visit.

For further information tel. 01833 690606 or visit www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk.

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Out & About

Antonio del Castillo y Saavedra (Córdoba 1616-1668) Four studies of the head of a young man Pen and brown ink Autograph monogram in centre A.C. 219 x 156 mm ©The Courtauld Gallery, London

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Just one of the extraordinary cars converted by Brotherwoods

Travel beside the driver in a Brotherwood Gold Label Kia Sedona For more details on NEW and refurbished previously owned KIA Red label and Gold label conversions ring: 01935 872603 Also we have a comprehensive range of New and Used Wheelchair Cars available to view on www.brotherwood.com

Beer Hackett, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 6QP

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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 A PAIR OF TICKETS TO SEE CRAZY FOR YOU AT THE NOVELLO THEATRE

COMPETITIONS

Mildred Pierce DVD/Book

Having it all would cost her everything!

Based on a classic 1941 novel by James M Cain, Mildred Pierce te tells the story of pride and privilege in middle class 1930’s America. Tells the intimate story of an ambitious woman, after A ddivorcing her husband during the Depression, is left to care for hher two young daughters.

R Released on Blu-Ray and DVD on 28 November 2011 from BBOHBO Home Entertainment.

W We have three sets of the DVD and Book to give away.

FFor a chance to win send in your name and address, quoting ref MP. q Closing date: 8 December 2012 C

Mildred Pierce the mini-series is out on DVD aandd Blu-ra Bl y on 128 November from HBO Home Entertainme inmenntt James M. Cain’s MILDRED PIERCE is out now in Phoenix Paperback at all good bookshops priced £7.99

WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO SEE THE VEIL AT THE NATIONAL THEATRE

The Veil

The Gershwin Smash hit Musical

A new play by Conor McPherson

CRAZY FOR YOU

SUBSCRIBE TODAY SUBSCRIBE TODAY www.retirement-today.co.uk

4 STARS The Times, Daily Mail

‘A cracking fireside tale of haunting and decay.’

Celebrate the winter season with River Cottage Winter’s on the Way

The Times

With the cooler seasons fast approaching, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall is back and hopes to turn this traditionally chilly time into the warmest season of the year by cooking up some winter treats using the finest produce from land and sea, out on DVD. Also, for the first time on DVD is the River Cottage - All Seasons box-set which bring together Hugh’s adventures and an array of recipes from Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.

We have 5 DVD boxed sets of River Cottage-All Seasons to give away.

FFor a chance to win send in your name aand n address, quoting ref. RC Closing C Cl l date: 8 December 2011

s 2ETIREMENT 4ODAY IS POSTED DIRECT TO YOUR DOOR SO YOU LL NEVER MISS AN ISSUE

‘A hugely atmospheric night. Spine-tin ne-tinglin glingg moments, and a big shock that will lift you from seat.’

Daily Mail

Set around a haunted house in 1820s Ireland. This is a transfixing story of the search for love, from the award-winning author The Weir and The Seafarer.

Until 11 December.

Retirement Today readers can also redeem fantastic seats to see The Veil at the National Theatre for just £25.

Call 020 7452 3000 quoting ‘4400’ or enter promotion code ‘4400’ before selecting seats online at nationaltheatre. org.uk. Offer valid on £31 and £38 tickets only and for performances between 31 October and 30 November 2011.

Competition closes 14 November 2011. Winner’s tickets are valid for all performances 18 November – Thurs 8 December 2011, subject to availability.

For a chance to win send in your name and address, quoting ref. V

Special Offer

£14..999

Competitions

Direct from a sell-out run at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, London’s most joyous musical has tap danced into the West End! This outrageously feel-good theatrical experience is brought to the stage by a multi-Olivier-Award-winning creative team and has received more five star reviews than any other musical this year.

Retirement Today readers can also redeem £39.50 tickets to see CRAZY FOR YOU at the Novello Theatre (usually £62.50).

Call 0844 482 5171 quoting ‘Crazy Offer’ Offer valid on £62.50 tickets only and for performances between 31 October and 23 December 2011.

Competition closes 14 November 2011. Winner’s tickets are valid Monday – Thursday performances until 30 November 2011.

Subject to availability.

For a chance to win send in your name and address quoting ref. CFY

Name Address

TO SUBSCRIBE PLEASE COMPLETE THE FORM AND RETURN WITH A CHEQUE MADE PAYABLE TO AMRA MEDIA SOLUTIONS LTD for the sum of £14.99 (inc. p&p) or telephone 01296 632700

Subscriptions Department, Amra Media Solutions, The Old Lavender Mill, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, Buckinghamshire HP22 5ES

Post code email

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UPDATE Inflation could reduce your purchasing power by 68% during retirement

Standard Life, the savings and investment specialist, has warned that the effects of inflation can seriously damage your retirement wealth. New data released today shows that a 90-year old who retired in 1981, when petrol cost 35p a litre*, would have seen the purchasing power of a £10,000-a-year level pension income fall to just £3,207 today.

John Lawson, Head of Pensions Policy at Standard Life said: “Inflation can have a huge impact on the purchasing power of your retirement income. As people are living longer, retirement income needs to go that much further, with a 60-year old man retiring today living on average for another 26 years.

“Our research shows that 57% of people do recognise that an income keeping pace with inflation is attractive. But currently, and somewhat inevitably, the majority go for the higher starting income of a level annuity, leaving only 3% choosing an inflation linked annuity. This is perhaps understandable given that annuity rates have reached record lows and level annuities start at a higher rate than their inflation linked alternatives. *Source: http://www.theaa.com/public_affairs/reports/Petrol_Prices_1896_todate_gallons.pdf Note, 1 gallon = 4.54 litres.

For further information on inflation proofing your retirement income, and the choices you have, please go to www.standardlife.co.uk/retirement_solutions/search.html

BRITS DON’T BUY INTO BRITISH, say experts in report by Country Life

Though British people claim to support buying national produce , in fact they don’t, an expert report commissioned by Country Life has confirmed. Despite having the fourth-largest food and drink manufacturing industry in the world, the UK currently imports twice as much food as it exports. Agriculture amounts to a mere 0.5% of the UK’s GDP* and the share of the local food market stands at just 7.8%.

Only 34% of adults pay attention to where the products they buy are made or grown*, even though 76% recognise that buying British food supports British businesses*. With only two in five trusting British food over imported, the government, food producers and retailers have a job to convince consumers to buy British food, say the experts.

Women delaying retirement to support their adult children, Friends Life report reveals Parents are bailing out their adult children by more than £3,000 a year due to rising property prices, tuition fees and youth unemployment, according to a report from Friends Life*.

The report, entitled ‘Working Women’ and part of Friends Life’s Visions of Britain 2020 series, reveals that rather than coasting towards a comfortable retirement, women in their 50s are working for longer than ever in order to give their adult children financial support.

The findings suggest that far from being unscathed by the credit crunch and recession, this ‘golden generation’ of working women in their 50s finds itself bearing some of the financial burden of the younger generations.

Traditionally, most children will have flown the nest by the time they reach 21, but the report reveals that 70%3 of working women have allowed their adult children to remain at the family home, even if they have a full-time job.

* Mintel – Oxygen Food Provenance Report April 2011

* Figures are taken from the ‘Golden Generation’ chapter of the ‘Working Women’ report. www.visionsofbritain2020.co.uk/workingwomen.

With today’s over 55s sitting on £1.9 trillion* worth of housing equity, downsizing to release equity is often put forward as a solution to insufficient retirement saving.

However, SHIP, the trade body for equity release, reveals that this may not always be the best financial option for the UK’s over 55s.

The UK’s over 55s generally own properties which are worth more than other age groups and thus can downsize to release equity - while remaining in the same area.

However, a review of 25 UK local authorities with a high density of over 55s shows that in almost a third (32%) of cases, people looking at this option would either be worse off or not release sufficient money to make it worth while - when all costs were taken into account.

While others might not actually be out of pocket, by the time fees are paid and moving costs accounted for, little money may be left and the resulting move would be a traumatic wrench taking away the familiar support structure of friends and family.

Newly retired so poor having to seek extra work PeoplePerHour.com, Europe’s biggest online business marketplace reports rapid rise in newly retired people seeking extra work to make ends meet, with a 117 percent rise in newly retired people looking to earn more money to boost their pensions in the last 12 months.

Update

The site found that pensioners were most likely to seek work in sales, either working with already established clients or cold calling clients for companies. Retired people were also undertaking work in web design and videography.

The highest increase in retired people looking for work was in the South East with 30 percent of all retired people signing up to the site, with 16 per cent signing up in London and 12 percent in the South West.

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With UK consumers’ purchasing decisions still driven by price, with provenance and even taste remaining secondary considerations, the campaign calls for consumers to re-prioritise British provenance.

Downsizing is not Always a Viable Financial Option SHIP Data Analysis Reveals that it is not Right for Everyone

*Population data sourced from ONS mid 2010 population estimates

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Kessingland Beach Holiday Park Where Countryside meets the Sea!

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Kessingland Beach Holiday Park, Beach Road, Kessingland, Nr Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR33 7RW *Prices vary between models and park resorts parks. Subject to availability.

Park Resorts reserves the right to withdraw this promotion at any time.

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Make it COUNT

T

his year let’s do our utmost to give the high street a miss and look at animal adoption, the gift that keeps on giving.

But hurry, adoption is increasingly popular at this time of year so don’t leave it too late.

Every year in Britain over ďŹ ve million wild animals and birds are injured as a direct result of their encounters with man’s world. At St Tiggywinkles, a leading SOS wildlife welfare charity, they are always ready to care for sick and injured hedgehogs, badgers, wild birds, foxes, even reptiles and amphibians free of charge, with their main aim being to return all their recovered Adopt today and get patients back to the wild.

CertiďŹ cate of adoption However, sadly, many are Photo and detailed history of left disabled due to their your chosen animal injuries and would not be able to cope back in the One free entry to Visitor Centre wild. You can help support Fact sheet them and their work by Car Sticker adopting one of their long Badge TERM RESIDENTS SUCH AS 0ENNY THE 0OLECAT FOR JUST a FOR THE YEAR 0ENNY WAS BROUGHT TO 4IGGYWINKLES after being bitten by a dog. Leaving her with permanent head damage she now lives in their 0OLECAT CLOSURE WITHIN THE (OSPITAL GROUNDS

AT A GLANCE

copyright Les Stocker

Britain has a well deserved reputation as a nation of animals lovers, this combined with the fact that when it comes to giving to charity we are one of the most generous nations in the world. Christmas is the season for giving but sometimes it feels like the huge commercialisation of the season is not in keeping with the original spirit. Many of us have everything we need and presents can become quickly discarded or put to the back of a drawer and forgotten about.

0RESS REPORTS CONlRM THIS IN *ANUARY WITH articles galore on people selling unwanted gifts with online sites such as ebay.

Adopt today and get One way of making a difference Standard ‘Nosebag’: and giving a valued present is animal Photograph and adoption certiďŹ cate adoption, whereby someone adopts an Your adopted animals story and how you animal for a period of time from a charity Redwings Horse Sanctuary, cares for over can visit your new friend and in return gets the opportunity to

HORSES PONIES DONKEYS AND MULES EVERY birthday their Update and new photo just before follow the development of their own day. They have eight centres around the UK, Invite to your adopted animals party!

ANIMAL AND IN SOME CASES VISIT NOT including three visitor centres in Essex, Norfolk Online ‘Nosebag’: TO BE CONFUSED WITH REHOMING )N and Warwickshire.The charity aims to re-home many ways it is great for children and A year’s worth of access to your as many of their equines as possible and prefers adults alike who for whatever reason chosen horse’s website to use adoption as the means to provide help for are unable to keep an additional pet or A chance to help take care residents while they are in their care.The Redwings perhaps have no access to the outdoors of your new friend Adoption Club is the fun way to support the charity making pet ownership very difďŹ cult. yourself and at the same time make a new friend in the process.

Most importantly it can help children It’s a great way to give help towards the daily care of the become involved in conservation through many residents such as Denise, who is a very cheeky skewbald charities such as the wildlife and wetlands DONKEY 3HE WAS RESCUED IN AS A WEEK OLD FOAL AS HER MOTHER HAD DEVELOPED MASTITIS AND WAS trust and develop a life long relationship unable to feed her. She was bottle feed day and night and is now a perfectly healthy, happy donkey with a charity. and she certainly makes her presence known at the Visitor Centre!

Animal adoption or sponsorship is an increasingly important method of fund raising for charities, the details vary The Orangutan Appeal UK, based in the south of England, is from charity to charity but the essentials dedicated to the rehabilitation and preservation of Orangutans and the remain the same. The person receives a conservation of their habitat. certiďŹ cate, pictures of their animal and in The Appeal strives to protect remaining wild populations some cases a cuddly toys, all helping to of orangutans by providing support and funding for create that special bond. projects across Malaysian and Indonesian Borneo; and by raising awareness of the plight of this great ape across the globe.

The Appeal is also authorised Adopt today and get to work on behalf of the Photographs of your adopted baby, and famous Sepilok Orangutan the Appeals newsletter.

Rehabilitation Centre! &OR a YOU CAN ADOPT ONE Adult packs an jute bag/ children’s packs of the young orangs, and at the pencil case and activity sheets. same time help the projects and Plus updates on their baby’s progress, plus get something back in return for their latest photographs and the next your support. You can choose to newslet ter in the series after 6 months. adopt Chikita, Gelison, feisty little Bella, or other young orangutans.

Adoption certiďŹ cate

AT A GLANCE

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AT A GLANCE

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Full history proďŹ le

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Redwings Horse Sanctuary is a Registered Charity Number 1068911

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The Red Squirrel Our National Heritage‌ Recent announcements on Inheritance Tax mean that now is the time to make sure your will benefits those close to you. Now that leaving bequests to charity bring added value to a will, could you please consider a gift to the Red Squirrel Survival Trust?

We are the only national charity dedicated to saving this truly iconic species from extinction.

A legacy to us is a legacy for future generations – helping to save a special piece of our heritage.

Please visit www.rsst.org.uk for more information on our work and helpful tips on making or changing your will – or call us on 0207 864 1444.

Reg. Charity no. 1116947 (England & Wales) SC039959 (Scotland)

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Monkey World - Ape Centre in Dorset is SET IN ACRES OF WOODLAND OFFERING A SAFE HAVEN FOR OVER PRIMATES WHO HAVE been rescued from all over the world. The sanctuary works in conjunction with foreign governments worldwide to stop the illegal smuggling of apes out of Africa and Asia.

At the Centre refugees of this illegal trade, as well as those that have suffered abuse or neglect, are rehabilitated into natural living groups. If you decide to adopt with Monkey World you can be assured that every penny goes directly to the rescue centre’s BENElCIARIES &ROM JUST a

just choose your monkey or ape such as Bart, who was born at the park IN !DOPTING Adopt today and get a primate makes a superb present for Photograph of your both adults and adopted primate children, especially Adoption certiďŹ cate at Christmas, but Three yearly newsletters also at any time of Annual entry pass to the year. the park for one year

AT A GLANCE

Monkey World

Paradise Wildlife Park, the multi-award winning wildlife education and conservation centre has a variety of exotic animals available for adoption making their scheme extremely attractive to those seeking an alternative Christmas gift.

You can adopt anything from the Humbolt 0ENGUIN TO A RING TAILED lemur, or one of their big cats, such as Rocky, which are always a popular choice. !DOPTION COSTS a FOR a year which includes two free tickets to the park and makes a perfect gift for your animal loving family and friends. Or, if you want, why not adopt an animal for yourself.

We’ve featured in this article some really worthwhile organisations who are offering fantastic adoption schemes. There’s sure to be one to suit every recipient young or old!

AT A GLANCEget

Adopt today and

A photo of the animal you adopted A certiďŹ cate Information on the animal you adopted Information on the species of animal Two free tickets to the park Your name on the adoption board of honour

For further information on all adoptions featured visit: Redwings: www.redwings.org.uk Monkey World: www.monkeyworld.org St Tiggywinkles: www.sttiggywinkles.com Paradise Wildlife Park: www.pwpark.com Orangutan Appeal UK: www.organutan-appeal.org.uk Safe Haven for Donkeys: www.safehaven4donkeys.org

.OW IN THEIR TH YEAR 3AFE (AVEN FOR Donkeys work is dedicated to the welfare of working and abandoned donkeys in )SRAEL AND THE 0ALESTINIAN 4ERRITORIES $UE to great economic hardship, often people in these areas are unable to afford medical care for their donkeys and frequently abandon them when they are no longer able to work.

Safe Haven for Donkeys strive to promote the importance of basic welfare of donkeys and wherever possible teach compassion to achieve long-term changes for the better, while at the same time improving the treatment and living conditions for these animals so that they can live healthier and BETTER LIVES 4HERE ARE CURRENTLY DONKEYS available for adoption, including Abu Sabber, who was found being dragged along by a cart being pulled by another donkey in the village of Tayibe. His owner didn’t want him, so he was taken back to Safe Haven for Donkeys. You can adoption Abu Sabber OR ONE OF HIS MANY FRIENDS FOR JUST a

and you can be sure that you are making a valuable contribution to their work

AT A GLANCE

Adopt today and get Adoption certiďŹ cate record card and photo of your chosen donkey.

Cuddly toy donkey or a birthday book

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Disability can affect anyone at any stage of life, directly or indirectly.

SOUTH WEST EQUINE PROTECTION Charity No. 1087579

The Disabilities Trust specialises in: Physical and Learning Disabilities, Autism and Asperger Syndrome and Acquired brain injury.

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How to donate to The Disabilities Trust: Text ABLE30 ÂŁ5 to 70070 Visit www.thedtgroup.org Or send a Cheque to: The Disabilities Trust, Freepost SEA4789 Burgess Hill, RH15 9BR

For other ways of getting involved with us or to find out more about the work we do give us a call on: 01444 237 286 or email: fundraising@thedtgroup.org Registered Charity No 800797 and SC038972 The Disabilities Trust, 32 Market Place, Burgess Hill, West Sussex RH15 9NP

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LITTLE SISTERS OF THE POOR Ä&#x201A;Ĺś Ç&#x2021;Žƾ Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;ĹŻĆ&#x2030; ĆľĆ? Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝ Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ä?ĆľÄ&#x17E; Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161; Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E; ĨŽĆ&#x152; Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ä&#x17E; Ç&#x20AC;ƾůŜÄ&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x201A;Ä?ĹŻÄ&#x17E; Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ć?Ä&#x17E;Ć?Í&#x2022; Ć&#x2030;ŽŜĹ?Ä&#x17E;Ć? Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161; Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ć&#x2030;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x17E;Ä&#x161; ĨŽÄ&#x201A;ĹŻĆ?Í? dĹ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; Ä?Ĺ˝Ć?Ć&#x161; ŽĨ Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Í&#x2022; Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?ĹśÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ç&#x2021;Í&#x2022; Ä&#x161;Ä&#x17E;ĹśĆ&#x;Ć?Ć&#x161;Í&#x2022; ĨÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152; Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161; ĨÄ&#x17E;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161; Ä?Ĺ?ĹŻĹŻĆ? Ç Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ĺś Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?ĹśĹ? ĨŽĆ&#x152; Ĺ˝Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152; Ď­ĎŹĎŹ Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ć?Ä&#x17E;Ć? Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161; Ä&#x201A;ĹśÇ&#x2021; ŽŜÄ&#x17E; Ć&#x;ĹľÄ&#x17E; Ć?ŽŽŜ žŽƾŜĆ&#x161;Ć? ĆľĆ&#x2030;Í&#x2DC; EĹ˝ ĹľÄ&#x201A;ĆŠÄ&#x17E;Ć&#x152; Ç Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161; Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; Ä?Ĺ˝Ć?Ć&#x161; Ç Ä&#x17E; Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E; Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E; Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝ Ĺ?Ĺ?Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E; Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ä&#x17E; Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ć?Ä&#x17E;Ć? Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; ĹŻĹ?ĨÄ&#x17E; Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ç&#x2021; Ä&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E;Í&#x2DC; dÄ&#x17E;Ç&#x2020;Ć&#x161; D Z ĎŽĎŽÍ&#x2022; Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ĺś Ć?Ć&#x2030;Ä&#x201A;Ä?Ä&#x17E;Í&#x2022; Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ĺś Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; Ä&#x201A;žŽƾŜĆ&#x161; Ç&#x2021;Žƾ Ç Ĺ?Ć?Ĺ&#x161; Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝ Ä&#x161;ŽŜÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E; Ä&#x17E;Ĺ? D Z ĎŽĎŽ ÎŹĎą Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝ ϳϏϏϳϏ

The Little Sisters of the Poor is a Congregation of religious sisters dedicated to the service of the elderly of modest means, regardless of nationality or creed. Founded in France in 1839 by Jeanne Jugan, established in Britain in 1851, our work is today carried out among the elderly in thirty-one countries on five continents, with 17 Homes throughout England, Ireland and Scotland.

In providing total care we believe in enabling Residents to fulfil their physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs. We have at heart to recognise their dignity, desire of being respected, esteemed and loved and their longing to feel themselves useful.

With your help we wish to respond to their need for companionship, security in health as in sickness, until death, in a family atmosphere.

We really do count on you for support to enable us to continue our care of the elderly.

We greatly appreciate DONATIONS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; GIFT AID â&#x20AC;&#x201C; LEGACIES

Thank you ,ŽŜÄ&#x17E;Ç&#x2021;Ć?ĆľÄ?ĹŹĹŻÄ&#x17E; &Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;ĹľÍ&#x2022; ĆľÄ?ĹŹĹŻÄ&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161; ZĹ˝Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x161;Í&#x2022; EÄ&#x17E;Ç Ć&#x161;ŽŜ Ä?Ä?Ĺ˝Ć&#x161; dYĎ­ĎŽ Ď°^ dÄ&#x17E;ĹŻÍ&#x2014; Ϗϭϲώϲ ϯϹϹϾϲϾ tÄ&#x17E;Ä?Í&#x2014; Ç Ç Ç Í&#x2DC;ĹľÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161;ĨŽÄ&#x201A;ĹŻÍ&#x2DC;Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ĺ? ĹľÄ&#x201A;Ĺ?ĹŻÍ&#x2014; ŽĸÄ?Ä&#x17E;Î&#x203A;ĹľÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161;ĨŽÄ&#x201A;ĹŻÍ&#x2DC;Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ĺ?

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LITTLE SISTERS OF THE POOR Sr. Stephen, Provincial House, 2a Meadow Road, London SW8 1QH Tel: 020 7735 0788 Fax: 020 7582 0973 Email: mplond@aol.com Registered Charity No. 234434

Charity N E W S

Festive Fridays with SSBA As a way to boost the funds of the Scottish Spina Bifida Association (SSBA) in 2012, this Scottish charity has launched Festive Fridays, a fun and exciting way to raise money in December. They are asking individuals and companies to set aside one Friday in December to organise an event such as a coffee morning, bake sale or raffle or they ask that people simply choose a Friday to call in with a donation to 01236 794508. The SSBA have to raise nearly £1million and receive less than 1% in government funding so any help you can offer to allow the SSBA to provide support, projects, training and health checks across Scotland would be gratefully received.

Clare Cogan Turner, Fundraising & Communications Manager for the charity, says, “We really need donations to help all those affected by spina bifida and hydrocephalus and what better time than at Christmas. Many people attend so many events in the lead up to Christmas that there are plenty of opportunities to ask friends or colleagues for an extra £1 for charity or to add a wee raffle into the mix.”

To get involved or for further info call Clare on 01236 794513 or email clare@ssba.org.uk www.ssba.org.uk

South West Equine Protection, a small Devon based charity helping and caring for Dartmoor and Bodmin moor ponies are currently looking after more ponies at its rehabilitation yard than ever before. The charity feels that the recession is never going to end as it has had a record number of ponies being returned from their loan home due to financial reasons. The ponies in its care may increase, but the helpers and finances are not increasing to compensate, so it is certainly finding itself stretched.

The helpers that the charity has at the moment are very dedicated and hard working and without them the charity would struggle.

It is difficult to show enough appreciation for the volunteers that give their time freely to the ponies and the cause. SWEP is always very grateful for any help and any donations received. It currently has 40 ponies at the rehabilitation yard, most of them ready to be re-homed on a loan basis. Luckily the charity has managed to purchase some land and put ponies on to graze, but how many more ponies will be returned this winter.

If would like to find out more about the charity, please visit their website on www.swep.org.uk or call 01822 854823.

Age Scotland is delighted to announce the date for their annual fundraising event: Wear a Hat Day. This year Wear a Hat Day will take place on Friday, 2nd December – but you can choose any date in December that suits you best!

Across Scotland thousands of people wear a hat on the day in exchange for a suggested donation of £2 to Age Scotland. Your hat can be created, borrowed or bought and you can make the day as much fun as you like - the only limit is your imagination.

Why not use this as an excuse to kick-start the festive season!

Organise a ‘Wear a Hat’ coffee morning, a ‘Wear a Hat’ walk or a ‘Wear a Hat’ fashion show... For more ideas, register now and we’ll send you a free copy of our Wear a Hat Day pack.

For registration and more info, call Alison Payne on 0845 833 9315 or send us an e-mail at wearahatday@agescotland.org.uk All money raised from Wear a Hat Day will stay in Scotland and will support Age Scotland’s great work helping older people across the country.

T.S.T.H

T.S.T.H in Tiggywinkles jargon stands for “too small to hibernate”.

When these four crucial letters start being written on the admittance cards it tells the whole staff that autumn and then winter is upon us.

Each year this acronym starts cropping up during October. Their annual experience is that there is always a cold, below freezing, snap this month. This seems to trigger a panic among many younger hedgehogs who, weighing under 300 grams, appear to realise that they would not survive a hibernation attempt. It’s then that they are found all over the place, out during the day seeming not to know how to nest, should they nest, they need food, but where can they find it, their mothers are not there to help and its freezing cold.

Thankfully many, many people have taken on board their campaign about hedgehogs out during the day and T.S.T.H – too small to hibernate.

People bother to bring these destitute little mites to them. They can check them over, treat any parasites burdens and then join them in their hedgehog colony for a warm winter filling the rooms and corridors of Tiggys.

By next spring they will be fit, fat and ready to go. They shall check over gardens in which to release them.

They will have been filling their thoughts and resources for many, many months.

They want them released but they know that that time still comes hard when you remember that they will be on their own from next spring.

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Charity News

Equine charity thanks its Volunteers

WHAT HAT WILL YOU BE WEARING on Friday 2nd December 2011?

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Charity N E W S

Dementia Care within a Christian community Help and support for Clergy Pensioners from the Church of England Pensions Board

Pictured (l-r) Bield’s Sheila McKenzie, Director of Human Resources; Gerry O’Sullivan, Chair of the Association; Katrina Turner, Former Chair of the Assocation; Jim Strang, Chair of CIH Scotland and Brian Logan, Chief Executive”

Celebrating Later Life Bield Housing Association is celebrating its’ 40th Anniversary this year. Bield improves the quality of life of older people throughout Scotland by offering a diverse range of housing, care and other services.

A number of celebratory and fundraising events have taken place to mark this milestone.

They launched their 40th Anniversary DVD at the CIH Conference in March. The DVD outlines the key achievements and work areas of the Association.

In July, Bield’s first sheltered housing scheme at Bo’ness hosted a birthday party. The guest of honour was Brian Logan, Chief Executive. Brian tops a list of 40 Bield employees celebrating their 40th Birthdays this year.

Staff, tenants and volunteers were asked to take part in their recipe and photography competitions in June. There was a great response and the finishing touches are now taking place to their Recipe Book and Calendar.

These will be available at future fundraising events in support of Bield’s Small Grants Programme.

If you would like to find out more about the housing and services they provide please visit www.bield. co.uk or telephone 0131 273 4000.

To support Bield’s Fundraising Programme contact Kevin Rowe, Fundraiser telephone 0131 273 4035 / email k.rowe@bield.co.uk.

With life expectancy increasing, more and more people are suffering from dementia related illnesses.

Many of us have, or will have had, experience of dementia within our own circle of family and friends and will be aware of the strain and responsibility placed upon those who care for them.

The Church of England Pensions Board’s Nursing Care Home in Surrey now has a special wing, caring for dementia patients. The new unit provides a safe, secure and stimulating environment for their pensioners who are unable to care for themselves as a result of dementia. It is hoped that, providing funding can be found, dementia care provision can be extended to all Pensions Board homes, thus enabling more of those suffering from dementia, and their families, to benefit from the specialised environment and trained staff these units can offer.

Continued support for the Board’s Charitable Funds from kind and generous individuals is therefore essential if they are to continue to help the growing numbers of those in need.

For further information visit www.cepb.org.uk/appeals Telephone : 020 7898 1800 Email: cepbappeals@churchofengland.org

Dartmoor Ponies taken to market Every year, hundreds of Dartmoor’s hill ponies are rounded up and brought down off the moor to the farms between Autumn and early Winter - a practice traditionally known as a ‘drift’. They are then divided into those to be kept and those to go to market.

Transported in trucks or trailers, unwanted ponies, including foals, older and sometimes pregnant mares, will be sold at auction in local towns with the last sale of the year taking place in December.

Pony numbers have been falling in recent years because of the low prices they now fetch. Some of the less sought-after ponies will be split up from each other and bought for meat – a terrible fate for such beautiful animals.

Mare & Foal Sanctuary Senior Manager Syra Bowden says: “While the mares deserve a happy retirement, the foals deserve a chance of life. Once rescued and rehabilitated by our charity, they can often be rehomed and can even make excellent riding ponies.

“It is nice to think we can help preserve such an important part of Devon’s heritage.

Imagine Dartmoor without its herds of wild ponies and it would be a very lonely landscape.”

For further information, please visit www.mareandfoal.org.

School, The Disabilities Trust’s school for young people with autism and Asperger syndrome in Ascot, Heathermount Heathermount is asking for your help to see their kitchen improved.

Kitchen Appeal

The Disabilities Trust would like to build a training standard kitchen at Heathermount School with modern, professional equipment and a teaching area. This will be part of a redevelopment of the school which will situate the students’ training kitchen alongside the main school kitchen, allowing students to work with the school chefs in a commercial sized space.

Charity News 32

With Hospitality and Catering the most popular and strongest vocational subject in the school there’s high demand from pupils wanting to learn to cook. However, despite it being a subject which many enjoy and go on to achieve in, the existing kitchen facilities can lead to some students disengaging from catering lessons. The current facilities are situated in the basement, and are cramped and crowded with little natural light. Many of the students have sensory issues and find the environment hot, busy and too noisy to concentrate.

The new facility will be bigger and lighter. It will be at ground level with better airflow and the larger space will provide a calmer environment allowing younger pupils, who find group sessions hard to cope with, to take lessons.

Only around 12% of children with high-functioning autism and Asperger’s syndrome find their way into employment. The new kitchen will be closer to a real work environment and will help students transfer the skills they learn to the workplace.

To make this project a reality please visit www.thedtgroup.org and click on ‘Donate’.

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&+5,670$6 $33($/

zŽƾ Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ĺś ĹľÄ&#x201A;ĹŹÄ&#x17E; Ä&#x201A; Z > Ä&#x161;Ĺ?ÄŤÄ&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;ĹśÄ?Ä&#x17E; We believe that everyone deserves a chance in life. Ç&#x2021; ĹľÄ&#x201A;ĹŹĹ?ĹśĹ? Ä&#x201A; Ä&#x161;ŽŜÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x;ŽŜ Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝ Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; ^Ä?ŽƍĆ?Ĺ&#x161; ^Ć&#x2030;Ĺ?ĹśÄ&#x201A; Ĺ?ÄŽÄ&#x161;Ä&#x201A; Ć?Ć?Ĺ˝Ä?Ĺ?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x;ŽŜ Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ?Ć? Ĺ&#x161;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ć?Ć&#x161;ĹľÄ&#x201A;Ć?Í&#x2022; Ç&#x2021;Žƾ Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ĺś Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;ĹŻĆ&#x2030; Ä?ĆľĹ?ĹŻÄ&#x161; Ä&#x201A; ĨƾĆ&#x161;ĆľĆ&#x152;Ä&#x17E; ĨŽĆ&#x152; Ä&#x201A;ĹŻĹŻ Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć?Ä&#x17E; Ĺ?Ĺś ^Ä?Ĺ˝Ć&#x161;ĹŻÄ&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161; Ä&#x201A;ÄŤÄ&#x17E;Ä?Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161; Ä?Ç&#x2021;Í&#x2022; Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; ĹŻĹ?ĨÄ&#x17E;ůŽŜĹ? Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161; Ä?ŽžĆ&#x2030;ĹŻÄ&#x17E;Ç&#x2020; Ä?ŽŜÄ&#x161;Ĺ?Ć&#x;ŽŜĆ? ŽĨÍ&#x2022; Ć?Ć&#x2030;Ĺ?ĹśÄ&#x201A; Ä?Ĺ?ÄŽÄ&#x161;Ä&#x201A; Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161; Ĺ&#x161;Ç&#x2021;Ä&#x161;Ć&#x152;Ĺ˝Ä?Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x2030;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹŻĆľĆ?Í&#x2DC; We have to raise ÂŁ1 million in 2012 with less than Ď­Đš Ĺ?Ĺś Ć?Ć&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161;ĆľĆ&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ç&#x2021; ĨƾŜÄ&#x161;Ĺ?ĹśĹ?Í&#x2DC; Please help us.... * WWW.SSBA.ORG.UK * 01236 794508 *

Ĺ&#x161;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ć?Ć&#x161;ĹľÄ&#x201A;Ć? Ć&#x2030;Ć&#x2030;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;ĹŻ ŽŜÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x;ŽŜ &Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ĺľ I/We would like to donate the following ÂŁ I/We would like more information on Regular Giving to SSBA I/We would like more information on leaving a legacy to SSBA A NAME:

Stroke is the third biggest killer and the leading cause of severe adult disability in the UK. A lasting gift in your Will to The Stroke Association will help us lead the fight against brain attacks.

To find out more about leaving a legacy and for details of our Free Will Scheme please call us on 020 7566 1505 or email legacy@stroke.org.uk www.stroke.org.uk Stroke Helpline 0303 3033 100 The Stroke Association is registered as a company limited by guarantee in England and Wales No. 61274. Registered charity No. 211015 and registered charity in Scotland No. SC037789.

ADDRESS: POSTCODE: TEL/EMAIL:

Please make all donations payable to Scottish Spina Bifida Association.

For security purposes please do not send cash.

Send to: Freepost Plus RRAE-SCGY-CSJA, Scottish Spina Bifida Association, 6 Craighalbert Way, Dullatur, Glasgow, G68 0LS Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ä?Ĺ˝Ĺ?ĹśĹ?Ć?Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161; ^Ä?ŽƍĆ?Ĺ&#x161; Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ć&#x161;Ç&#x2021; EĹ˝Í&#x2DC; ^ ĎŹĎ­ĎŻĎŻĎŽĎ´Í&#x2DC; Ä?ŽžĆ&#x2030;Ä&#x201A;ĹśÇ&#x2021; ĹŻĹ?ĹľĹ?Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161; Ä?Ç&#x2021; Ĺ?ĆľÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x201A;ĹśĆ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x17E;Í&#x2DC; ZÄ&#x17E;Ĺ?Ĺ?Ć?Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161; Ĺ?Ĺś ^Ä?Ĺ˝Ć&#x161;ĹŻÄ&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161; EĹ˝ ώϭϯϏϹϏÍ&#x2DC;

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7 North Leith Sands, Edinburgh EH6 4ER 0131 467 7420/1 website www.cclasp.net email cclasp@hotmail.com Managing Director/Founder - Valerie Simpson

Fantastic subscription offer only

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GREY HAIRS

THE REGULAR PENSIONS COLUMN

ANNUITY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN In the coming months, Grey Hairs will be running a series of articles to help readers through the ‘annuity’ maze. This edition will highlight some of the issues to consider when converting a pension fund into an income for retirement.

When you reach retirement and have a pension fund invested with an insurance company, the normal course of action is to use this fund to buy an annuity - an income for life. You cannot change your mind once your annuity income has started so you do need to understand exactly what you are buying.

The average pension ‘pot’ at retirement in the UK is only £32,000 so you must try to ensure that you maximise the income for your retirement years.

OPEN MARKET OPTION: It is now a legal requirement for pension providers to inform you of your right to an ‘open market option’ – the ability to shop around for the best available deal in the market place in the same way as you would with other financial products – for example, your car insurance. Under an open market option, you buy an annuity with a different pension provider. If you decide to take tax-free cash, your current provider pays this and then transfers the rest of your fund to your chosen company who pays your lifetime income.

Many readers are still unaware that this option even exists and criticism continues to be aimed at the industry for not making this clearer in the relevant retirement paperwork.

The difference in the amount of income offered can vary by as much as 15-20% between the best and worst performing providers so it is important to shop around, especially as this income is paid for the rest of your life.

Grey Hairs

THE FOUR MAIN QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN CHOOSING AN ANNUITY: Single or joint-life

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By Robert Grey, Pensions Specialist A joint-life annuity may not be appropriate if you are single, widowed or divorced although you should check with your provider to see if a ‘non-married partner’ would be eligible to receive the income from a joint-life annuity.

Guarantee If you die soon after buying your annuity having only received a few income payments, your pension will die with you if only a single-life annuity and the remainder of your pension savings would be retained by the insurance company.

To counter this, you can choose an annuity with a guarantee period – normally 5 years or 10 – ensuring income payments are paid for at least this period should you die early.

On death within a guarantee period, the remaining guaranteed payments can continue to be paid as an income to a spouse (in addition to any joint-life annuity income) or a lump sum can be paid to your estate.

Escalation To protect your lifetime income against rising inflation, you can choose an annuity that increases (or escalates) at a fixed rate each year (e.g. 3%) or in line with changes to the Retail or Consumer Prices Index, giving you an income that increases each year to match inflation.

Alternatively, a level annuity will pay the same amount of income for the rest of your life and will never increase, although the buying power of your income will fall as inflation rises.

An escalating annuity is expensive to buy and your starting income will be a lot lower than you can expect from a level (non-increasing) annuity. In some cases, it can take 12-15 years for an escalating income to catch up with the higher income being paid by a level annuity.

Payment frequency You can usually choose to have your annuity income paid every month, 3 months (i.e. quarterly), every 6 months or once a year (annually). If you decide to receive payments less frequently, you can obtain a slightly higher level of income although the difference will be fairly minimal.

Once you have decided on the exact type of annuity that best suits your circumstances, you can start comparing the different levels of income that are available from other companies to see how competitive your current provider is.

In the next edition, Grey Hairs will look at the factors affecting annuity rates and how your health can play a part in the amount of income you receive ■ The correct answers to the summer quiz are: 1) State pension first paid in UK:

1st January 1909

A single-life annuity pays an income during your lifetime that will stop on your death (unless there is a guarantee in place – see below). A joint-life annuity, however, continues to pay an income to a spouse (at a pre-determined % level) after your death, if you pre-decease them.

2) Original State Pension Age for men and women:

70

3) SERPS first effective:

April 1978

4) Maximum Basic State Pension 2011/12:

£102.15

5) Govt. dept. responsible for payment/admin of State pension:

Pension Service

6) State pension increases each year in:

April

A joint-life annuity is more expensive than a single-life product as the pension provider expects to continue paying the annuity for a longer period. ‘Expensive’ in this context means the starting income you receive will be less for a joint-life than for a single-life annuity.

7) Residents of South Africa see no increase to UK State pension once in payment

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8) Deferral of State pension can be:

indefinite

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