It's Beautiful Winter 2022/23

60&Me

Embrace the grey

Welcome

If you’re looking for health and beauty tips to help you through to Spring, see page 12 for hair advice and page 19 will take you to Harmoni Health and beauty salon, who have a holistic focus.

Don’t miss our recipes and health tips throughout, we all want a bit of a reset at the start of the year. And if you want a new image, photographer Julie Richards has a project you may want to join on page 7.

Have a wonderful start to the year.

7 Lower Brook Street, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 2HG Telephone: 07986 293294

Joint Managing Directors David Lee-Birch david@oswestrylife.co.uk

Tracy Leonard tracy@oswestrylife.co.uk

Editor Victoria Jane McKenna victoria@oswestrylife.co.uk

Production Designer Aileen Selkirk aileen@oswestrylife.co.uk

Advertising info@itsbeautiful.co.uk

Editorial info@itsbeautiful.co.uk

Victoria McKenna EDITOR

Celebrating woman through beautiful portraits

Julie Richards is a portrait photographer based in Shrewsbury. Her passion is connecting with woman of all ages and sizes and from all walks of life. Having opened in November 2021, Julie’s studio is in the middle of town above THE SALON and THE NAIL BAR on Shoplatch. “It was a dream of mine for a number of years so, I am delighted that my dream came true,” Julie said.

“I offer luxury portrait and boudoir experiences. They are tailor made and very personal to each client. It’s about empowering women and bringing out their confidence and strength to make them see themselves in a whole new light, through beautiful magazine worthy images.”

“I have a session fee which includes a welcome pack, professional hair and makeup, style consultation, mood board and up to five outfit changes. I also have studio wardrobe they can borrow, or I can advise them on what to bring or where to shop. Clients receive one 10 x 8 mounted print and should they wish to purchase more, I have three different packages to choose from. I only want my clients to buy what they love and this is why they are sold separately.”

Personal branding and headshots for business owners are also available. Some of Julie’s clients include entrepreneurs, actors, doctors, dentists, personal trainers and yoga instructors.

Recently, Julie decided to build a campaign called ’40 over 40’ with the aim to photograph 40 women over the age of 40, so any ladies in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond.

Julie explained the importance of the campaign, “As we get older our bodies start to change, the menopause kicks in and all sorts of changes start to happen. And this has a knock-on effect with our confidence.

“The media hasn’t helped over the years but, I do feel things are changing and I want to be part of that and say it’s ok for more mature woman to be on the front of magazines. The women that have taken part have been drawn to it because they want to feel like they still matter and that they are just as beautiful now as when they were in their twenties. They have stories to tell and a life of ups and downs, raising families. They wanted to do something just for themselves to feel special, be pampered and reconnected.

“When we view the photos straight after their shoot, they are usually stunned and have a hard time choosing. They walk out of my studio feeling so good about themselves and that they are worthy of being on a front cover. It’s my favourite part and one of the reasons why I do what I do. I take great delight in showing them the final edited prints a few weeks later. With a whole reveal wall of all their chosen images on display before we place them in their folio box to take home.”

Julie still has places left for this amazing experience and will be holding an evening of celebration where one of the ladies’ images will be enlarged and displayed. “They along with a guest, will be invited to come and view all the other ladies and celebrate being beautiful mature women together,” explained Julie.

If you are thinking about taking part in the campaign or having a personal shoot, you receive a welcome pack on how to prepare, everything is taken care of beforehand and on shoot day, all you have to do is turn up, be pampered and have fun!

For more information, visit julierichardsportraits.com, email julierichardsportraits@gmail.com, call 07742 367564. Instagram @julierichardsportraits, Facebook Julie Richards Portraits

How to manage your skin’s ageing process

At Elite, we truly believe ageing is a privilege to be celebrated. However, sometimes it’s visual effects can leave us feeling insecure and looking older than we feel! There are so many different factors which may influence the nature of our ageing process, it can be hard to know where to start when it comes to our skin. At Elite, we take out the guess work for you, so you no longer need to waste time and money trying yet another “miracle product”. This is why we create bespoke journeys for our clients to achieve healthier, younger-looking skin. Our process starts with an in-depth skin analysis using imaging technology, combined with an assessment of current skin and lifestyle habits. From there we create your plan using a selection of the best non-surgical treatments on the market combined with effective skincare at home.

Our clients love these incredible, natural rejuvenation treatments to keep their skin feeling fresh and looking fabulous:

CACI Non-Surgical Facelift. CACI is our go-to treatment to combat loss of tone in our facial muscles, which occurs due to the ageing process. Electrical impulses delivered to the facial muscles brings a plumper more youthful appearance to the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production, as well as promoting blood circulation to offer impressive long-term results.

ENDYMED Radiofrequency. This world-leading technology is used to heat deep within the skin where collagen is formed. This heat causes an instant lift as your existing collagen contracts, but it also triggers a response in your skin that stimulates fibroblasts to produce new collagen, which is what gives you the natural, long-lasting results in skin tightening and lifting.

SkinPen Microneedling. SkinPen uses tiny needles to create a wound-healing response in your dermal layer of skin, which results in elastin and collagen growth. This treatment is not only perfect for preventative and reversal of skin ageing, but also incredible for textured, or scarred skin.

With all these skin procedures, we work incrementally to improve the health of your skin with each visit to the Studio. It takes consistency, alongside an expert specialist who understands your skin to guide you through every step of your skin rejuvenation process. Allowing you to relax, enjoy the experience and welcome the results!

At Elite, we harness our wide-ranging offering of clinical skin and laser treatments, to help all matter of aesthetic concerns such as age management, problematic skin, and unwanted hair. If you are interested to see how we can help you with your personal skin goals, book in for a skin analysis to begin your journey today. You can give us a call on 01952 814200 or book online at eliteskinstudio.co.uk

New technology is a clear winner

Here at Duignan Phelps Optometrists we have a new type of high-tech instrument to help with the early detection of glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, AgeRelated Macula Degeneration and other eye diseases. Studies show that this instrument may detect eye diseases earlier than conventional tests.

Our Optometrists state: “People are surprised when we tell them that 80% of blindness in the world is caused by what we call ‘back-of-the-eye’ diseases such as Glaucoma, Diabetic retinopathy and AMD. The good news is that 75% of blindness is preventable with regular check ups and early detection.”

We can do a 3D scan of your eyes with our OCT instrument. Our Optometrists have been fully trained to perform the exam, which only takes seconds per eye and does not require pupil dilation in most cases. This is incorporated into our already comprehensive Private Eye Examination for those patients that are entitled to an NHS standard Eye Examination, the 3D scan can be paid for privately.

Our Optometrists continue, “The trick with these diseases, is to catch them as early as possible, because often by the time a person starts suffering from symptoms, the disease has already progressed into an advanced and irreversible stage. The OCT can detect signs of diseases in their early, symptomless stages when treatment can be more effective in stopping the progression of the disease.”

A common misconception is that loss of vision affects only the elderly, but some of these diseases progress very slowly over years and start at a relatively young age, so eye screening is important for everyone.

Another advantage of this instrument is that it records and saves the results, so that when you come back for your next Eye Examination, the OCT automatically compares the results to your previous results to see if there has been any change in the retina since the last exam.

SEEING THROUGH THE RETINA

Traditional examination of the back of the eye (the retina) involved looking for signs of change on the surface. Thanks to REVO-OCT we can see through the surface and examine all the layers of the retina. Being able to identify and monitor abnormality within these layers is essential for early detection and diagnosis of some of the major causes of visual impairment and blindness; meaning treatments can be made available at the earliest possible moment.

“The OCT can detect signs of diseases in their early, symptomless stages when treatment can be more effective in stopping the progression of the disease.”

Winter layers

by Lucy Murphy

This season everyone is talking layers and lots of them!! It seems 2023 is giving soft, easy to style vibes…and we love them!

Cindy Crawford bombshell layers (aka the viral butterfly cut)

The 90s super model inspired cuts are full and bouncy, they allow you to keep your length as well as adding loads of volume and movement to your hair…and the best thing is that these cuts look amazing when styled with or without heat!!!

The wolf cu T

Miley Cyrus, Billy Eilish and Mia Regan are all fans of this rock chic haircut.

The wolf cut is a mix of the 70s Shag and the 80s mullet (yes, I said the M word)

It’s a super sexy messy cut that allows you to keep some length and have face framing layers to show off your cheekbones!

f ringes are taking over this winter!

From Wednesday Adams inspired fringes to eye sweeping bangs and bottleneck fringes, soft, feathered, the almost grown out look, they are very relaxed and do not need a lot of styling.

The long Bob is always en vogue.! It’s so easy to wear and extremely adaptable to suit any style. We are seeing ‘It Girls’ Zendaya and Jenna Ortega rocking them along with stunning Cate Blanchett and Chelsea Handler.

The Lob (long bob) has soft blunt lines that give a fuller, thicker and healthy look to your hair, add layers for extra volume and movements - this you will keep your hair on trend and looking it’s best.

2023 is definitely the year for movement and natural tousled styling!

Layers Lovely

Layering is the only way to combat going from the cold outside, into warm environments and back out again. Trench coats are ebbing in as the weather turns to rain but keep warm with long cardigans and dresses over jeans. Throw on some bright accessorise and you’re ready for

Above L-R: Pin Tuck Dress £25, www.matalan.co.uk

Premium Straight Holly Jeans £25, www.peacocks.co.uk

Tu Midwash Distressed Tapered Jeans, £20, www.sainsburys.co.uk

Lef T: White Shirt £11, www.primark.com

beLoW: Glowed blush £75, www.dunelondon.com

A bove: elysium Green £85, www.dunelondon.com

A bove: Dinkydorrie in orange £75, www.dunelondon.com

ABOVE: Charlee Leopard Print Crossbody £49.50 (due May), www.oliverbonas.com

BELO w: Bonprix Oversize Cardigan £39.99, www.freemans.com

WE STILL HAVE SELECTED DATES AVAILABLE THIS YEAR EXCLUSIVE USE WITH A TWO DAY STAY

AVAILABLE FOR WEDDINGS, PARTIES & HOUSE FOR HIRE

high grosvenor house claverley, shropshire, wv15 5pg

house@highgrosvenor.co.uk

Calm and soothe the mind, body and soul

Owner of Telford based Harmoni Health and Beauty, Cherie Chilton, grew up in Shifnal with her family owning a haulage business, delivering lambs. But Cherie’s dreams lay elsewhere, and she left the wellies behind to carve out a career in beauty retail. Over the years she worked for many prestigious beauty companies and accrued a wealth of experience, training and knowledge. Then a few years after having her first daughter Harmoni, Cherie decided she wanted to build a business from her home.

Originally specialising in beauty and make-up, Cherie more recently changed her direction with the business, to provide more of a holistic approach, adding holistic treatments to her services:

• Indian Head Massage

• Aromatherapy Massage and Reiki Healing

• Lymphatic Drainage Massage

• Lymphatic Firming and Toning Facials

For many years, Cherie’s dream was to have her own natural organic skincare product range of her own. Having worked for so many companies that use products with artificial ingredients that are not good for the body, Cherie was able to invest in ingredients and products that are ethically sourced and good for you mentally and physically.

Clients would also often walk into the studio and say, “I wish I could feel this relaxed and enjoy the benefits of essential oil fragrance and products at home,” Cherie said.

“This is another reason that prompted me to develop natural body skincare products and an at home range, created with my favourite essential oil bases. So, Harmoni at Home was born.”

The natural massage candles in the product range are made with soy and rapeseed oil, all essential oils. No parabens or paraffin are used.

Alongside the candles, Cherie also provides products to bring you the full package of selfcare at home. Hand and body veils and washes, massage oils, bath salts and natural hair and body shampoo bars. For the home there are room and pillow sprays and diffusers.

Mental health is freely talked about now and is an ever-increasing problem. The natural

proudness still linger in my heart now and is what has helped push me to follow my dream.

“Dad provided me with a lot of advice, love and guidance over the years and I’d like to think it wasn’t in vain. As a tribute to Dad, I dedicated the first of my Massage Candles to him and called it Angels Whispers. The ingredients are known to help with grief, loss, stress and anxiety.”

essential oil-based Skincare and Home product range were intended and created with love by Cherie to help ease symptoms of stress, anxiety and grief - calm and soothe the mind, body and soul.

In March 2018, Cherie’s beloved father passed away suddenly, and this was her motivation to help launch the Harmoni at Home Natural Skincare products.

Cherie said, “My father, Michael John Curle was a well-known haulage businessman in the area, who farmed just outside of Shifnal. I had told him about my plans for developing the products before he passed away. He had given me the nod of approval and said, ‘that’s my girl’. Those words of approval and

Angels Whispers contains the essential oils of Sweet Orange, Neroli, Ylang Ylang and Patchouli. Cherie had already chosen this blend prior to her father’s passing, which made it rather serendipitous as little did she know, she would be needing the candle herself a month later.

The Harmoni Health and Beauty products and bridal packages will be on sale at the Lavender Blue Florist & Bridal Boutique in Shifnal from the end of February. A website is also in the pipeline.

For more information email Cherie@harmonihealthandbeauty. co.uk or call 07704 176172. Follow on Instagram @ harmonihealthandbeauty or Facebook: Harmoni Health And Beauty. Products available: Instagram @ harmonihealthandbeautyproducts.

Ludlow

Shrewsbury

Autumn Statement Summary

Income Tax and dividend income

The Income Tax additional rate threshold will be reduced from £150,000 to £125,140 with effect from 6 April 2023. This move will see an estimated 250,000 further taxpayers pay the additional rate of Income Tax of 45% from next April.

The current £2,000 dividend tax-free allowance is to be reduced to £1,000 from April 2023 and to £500 from April 2024.

The 1.25% increase in the tax rates payable on dividend income, which took effect in April 2022 remains in place.

The rates that apply in all regions of the UK from 6 April 2023 that dividends form part of are as follows:

• The basic rate band – 8.75%

• The higher rate band – 33.75%

• The additional rate band – 39.35%

Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

There is a significant reduction in the annual exempt amount applicable to CGT. This rate had previously been fixed at £12,300 from April 2021 to April 2026 for individuals, personal representatives, and some types of trusts for disabled people.

The exempt amount will now be reduced to £6,000 from April 2023 before being further reduced to £3,000 from April 2024.

Corporation Tax (CT)

The Chancellor had previously announced on 17 October 2022 that the planned increases in CT rates from April 2023 would be going ahead.

From 1 April 2023, there will be two rates of CT.

• Taxable profits up £50,000 will continue to be taxed at 19%.

• Taxable profits more than £250,000 will be taxed at the main rate of 25%.

Profits between £50,000 and £250,000 will be subject to a marginal tapering relief.

National Living Wage (NLW) increases

The NLW will increase to £10.42 per hour (previously £9.50) from 1 April 2023.

The full changes to the National Minimum Wage rates per hour from 1 April 2023 are as follows:

• 21 to 22 year-olds - £10.18

• 18 to 20 year-olds - £7.49

• 16 to 17 year-olds - £5.28

• Apprentice rate - £5.28 Aaron Powis BSc (Hons) B.F.P., F.C.A., C.T.A - Partner

Here to Help

We can hold meetings via telephone and video, we are also able to offer face-to-face appointments. Please contact us and a member of our team will be happy to help.

Our People, Your Team

Our People, Your Team Here to Help

MEET THE TEAM AT LANYON BOWDLER: CASSIE CHIDLOW

Here to Help

Buying or selling property is a major event in anyone’s life, and residential property solicitors like Cassie Chidlow are here to make the process run as smoothly as possible.

What’s your favourite thing about living and working in Shropshire?

We continue to offer meetings via telephone and video and where necessary we are able to offer face to face appointments, please use our letterbox when dropping off documents. Contact

Exploring the glorious Shropshire countryside and historic towns has got to be my favourite part about living in Shropshire. Sometimes we forget how lucky we are to live in a place big in size and charm but small in numbers.

Legal services including:

Here, she tells us more about her role and what she enjoys about living and working in Shropshire.

• Agriculture

• Business Law

How would you describe your job?

• Education

• Employment Law

• Family Law

• Motoring & Crime

I work at our Shrewsbury office which is a short walk from the town centre which I feel has a perfect blend of city and countryside, there is plenty to do and see, along with plenty of bars and restaurants which have a great atmosphere in the evening. There is something for everyone.

Legal services including:

• Clinical Negligence

• Court of Protection

• Agriculture

• Disputes

• Personal Injury

• Property & Planning

What has been your proudest moment (inside or outside of work)?

- 41 Church Street, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 2SZ 01691 652241

•

I work in the residential property department at Lanyon Bowdler. I deal with all things related to residential property, from sales, purchases, transfers of equity, re-mortgages, first registrations and much more.

• Wills, Trusts & Probate

My proudest moment outside of work was purchasing my first home several years ago.

• Business Law

• Family Law

• Clinical Negligence

•

How do you relax away from work?

•

I have a Labradooble, Lola, who is now just over a year old, so we enjoy long walks exploring Shropshire at the weekend with the family.

•

For most people, buying a property will be the biggest and most important financial transaction made in their lifetime, and my team and I aim to take any worries away with our experience, expertise and client-focused way of working.

• Court of Protection

• Disputes

•

Residential property is very fast paced and I enjoy playing a key part of a client’s house sale or purchase journey.

Our People, Your Team Here to Help

•

What advice would you give to someone starting out in law?

My advice to anyone starting out in law would be to ensure you obtain as much work experience as you can, especially working in various areas of law because it is impossible to be certain of which area you wish to specialise in until you have experienced that area, and others, in practice.

We continue to offer meetings via telephone and video and where necessary we are able to offer face to face appointments, please use our letterbox when dropping off documents.

Where is your favourite place to visit in Shropshire? There are so many to choose just one, but I do really enjoy walking up The Lawley and Rodney’s Pillar. I have also recently discovered Corbet Wood Countryside Heritage site (including Grinshill) which is a lovely walk. I also enjoy visiting historic castles.

What are your favourite events that take place in Shropshire?

I try to experience as many new events in the area as I can.

Legal services including:

• Agriculture

• Business Law

• Family Law

• Education

It is essential to keep an open mind about where you would like your career path to take you. For instance, upon qualification and having completed my LPC (Legal Practice Course) I was convinced I did not wish to work in residential property! However, I have now been practising residential property for the last 10 years and love my job. Focus on where your passion lies.

Last year I went to my first Rock and Bowl Festival in Market Drayton, which is an annual music event with UK tribute acts usually taking place over the full weekend. It started as a beer garden music event back in 2009 and has grown to a full production festival as it is today.

• Employment Law

• Motoring & Crime

• Clinical Negligence

• Court of Protection

• Disputes

I would also say grab any opportunity, especially if it is outside your comfort zone before you commit to specialising. Many skills are transferable with completely different practice areas complementing each other.

• Personal Injury

• Property & Planning

• Wills, Trusts & Probate

It is held in the town’s picnic area and I found it was a great event for families and music lovers alike. They also raise money in support of local and national charities.

We continue to offer meetings via telephone and video and where necessary we are able to offer face to face appointments, please use our letterbox when dropping off documents.

BIRMINGHAM SHREWSBURY

Partridge Walk in Stafford offers stunning range of new homes, released in February 2022.

2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes are now on release at Partridge Walk, Beaconside. Offering homes for firsttime buyers, those looking for more room, or even those looking to downsize.

Partridge Walk now on release, offers a range of stylish new homes overlooking plenty of open green space with areas to support and encourage nature and local wildlife. Choose from 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes to suit your lifestyle.

Ideally located on outskirts of Stafford, Partridge Walk is surrounded by a suburban neighbourhood and countryside landscapes. With plenty of local shops, eateries, and sporting facilities it offers a great environment for the whole family.

In 5-10 minutes, you can be in the centre of Stone or Stafford with further shopping areas and a short drive takes you to the Staffordshire Moorlands and further afield the entrance to the Peak District for a sunny day trek.

With plenty of going on around the town of Stafford, Cannock Chase and the Shugborough Estate are some of the biggest attractions. The walks are great

for a rambler’s retreat or relaxing day out. At Cannock Chase, there is a Go Ape Adventure park that’s great for families, and for history lovers you can enjoy the sights of Stafford Castle. For children there is the Amerton Working Farm and Railway and for those wildlife-lovers you can experience Trentham’s Monkey Forest and Gentleshaw Wildlife Centre.

Become part of an ecologically conscious and sustainable community. Offering great views, surrounded by fields and nature, this new development will appeal to those who love nature and the environment by making the green spaces more accessible and fun.

Within our ecological developments we’ve been looking out for Britain’s best-loved creature these past few years, and we’ll be incorporating hedgehog highways throughout Partridge Walk. The highways have been designed to allow hedgehogs and other wildlife to wander freely and safely from

Offering great views, surrounded by fields and nature, this new development will appeal to those who love nature and the environment by making the green spaces more accessible and fun.

garden to garden and to wider areas.

As announced by the HBF, Bovis Homes are a 5 star house builder, which means that over 90% of customers in a recent survey ‘would recommend their builder to a friend’. So, get in contact today by calling us on 01785 508 223 to speak to our friendly sales advisers about our upcoming development.

Become part of an ecologically conscious and sustainable community

FOR A PROFESSIONAL, QUALITY SERVICE. Based in Oswestry and covering the Shropshire area...

Transforming gardens for over 20 years

after before

before after

Interiors

by Stephanie Dhillon

Viva Magenta

Powerful and unrestrained, Viva Magenta is Pantone’s colour for 2023. An energising tone that bridges red, pink and purple. Perhaps not to everyone’s liking, it does speak to those who love maximalist and assertive interior schemes. It’s balanced perfectly between a warm and cold tone making it fit into any current colour scheme you already have. So, whether it’s with paint or cushions, rugs, bedding or smaller accessories there are many ways to bring this jolt of joyous colour into your home.

Orchid

TLC

Co www.theloungeco.com

▼ Elvang Manhattan Square Cushion Cover £76 from Naken www.naken. co.uk

▲ Nuage Cloud Wall Art - Pink £38 from Aureous www.aureous.co

Centrepiece in Planter £33.99 from Wayfair  www.wayfair.co.uk

Noah Chair in Summer Punch £699 from The Lounge

▲ Pink Kiss No.49 £41.95 from Victory Colours www.victorycolours.co.uk

▲

▲ Lorena Canals Washable Moroccan RugFuchsia £235 from Cuckooland  www.cuckooland.com

▲ Gilded Chunky Candlestick in Red Silver Leaf £160 from Webb and Gray  www.webbandgray.com

Island Breeze Large Console in Fire Cracker £725 from The Painted Furniture Company www.paintedfurniture.co.uk

▲ Trio Lampshade in Crimson Red £30 from B&Q www.diy.com

▼ Arundel Heart Shaped Footstool with Storage in Red £39.99 from Homescapes Online www.homescapesonline.com

Supercharge Your Skin This Winter

by Caroline Louise Beauty and Makeup

‘Do you have a skin hangover?’

The festivities are over for another year and as we move through January and into February, you may find your skin is looking a little less radiant than you’d like.

Although the Christmasparty hangovers may be gone, we can end up with what I call a ‘skin hangover’ at this time of year. Throughout December, most of us eat and drink more than we need to and very often the things we eat are rich, heavily processed, refined carbohydrates (another mince pie anyone?) or laden with sugar or salt, not to mention the alcohol…

Now I’m not here as the fun police. I fully believe that we should rest and indulge over Christmas, but the combination of the food and drink mentioned above can cause low levels of (or for some people, chronic) inflammation in the gut microbiome, which can affect everything from our mood to our skin. The skin is the body’s largest organ and is like a barometer for showing signs of imbalance.

You may find you’re in the middle of a post-Christmas breakout or your skin feels dull and dehydrated. Couple this with more challenging environmental conditions faced by the skin in winter (wind chill and central heating) and it’s no wonder many of us start the new year needing to get our skin back in shape.

Here are mY Top TipS for Tackling Specific iSSueS:

Supercharge Your Diet

Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, fibre, nuts, seeds and healthy oils and fats will provide you with a range of vitamins, minerals, macronutrients and antioxidants- all of which will feed and nourish your skin. If you know you struggle to get these foods into your diet, consider taking supplements. Zinc, magnesium, iron, good quality multivitamins, probiotics and prebiotics can all benefit the skin.

Tackle specific skin conditions with hero ingredients

Know your skincare ingredients (and ask me for help if you don’t know where to start)! Whether you want to hydrate with hyaluronic acid, banish the blemishes with prebiotics or niacinamide, brighten with vitamin C and fruit acids or nourish and protect with specific oils, I’m here to help, so get in touch.

Chapped Hands or Lips?

The key to keeping hands and lips soft is to exfoliate regularly with a sugar/salt based natural scrub and to protect with a really nourishing balm. Look for butterbased lip balms, such as those with shea butter, and also choose a hand cream with natural oils and butters too. Steer clear of petroleum jelly products as although these form a barrier on the skin to prevent water loss, they do little to nourish and sink into the deeper layers of the skin. Finally, wash and dry your hands well this winter and make sure your hand soap doesn’t contain SLS or SLES, both of which can contribute to dry skin on hands.

Look after yourself this Winter and I’ll be back in the Spring with some fresh Spring/Summer makeup looks for 2023.

Caroline x

For more information visit www.caroline-louise.co.uk email caroline@caroline-louise.co.uk or call 07814 442041

Quality & value go hand in hand at The Haughmond

The Haughmond has been owned and managed by Mel and Martin Board since April 2014. They have built an independent restaurant, hotel, bar, café and bakery business in the heart of Upton Magna.

In recent years they have faced immeasurable challenges with unwavering resolve to maintain their family home and business, as well as offer a welcoming haven for locals, visitors and cyclists alike. Their mission has always been to exceed expectation at great value. As one of only three 3 AA Rosette restaurants in Shropshire, and recommended in the Michelin Guide, Mel and Martin have received recognition of the quality they are producing.

As they enter into 2023 the vision is now to tackle the cost of living crisis that all of us are facing. For some, the luxury of dining out or having a night away has become a rarity that is only reserved for special occasions. Mel and Martin would like to change that for the loyal and supportive customers they have had over the years. This year’s menu is focused on delivering tasty, simple, seasonal produce at the best value. Martin, as Chef Patron,

works alongside Shropshire suppliers including Corbetts Butchers, Cornalls Seafoods, Shropshire Micro Farm, Winsbury Diary, Hollowdene Eggs and Haughmond Village Store Bakery (granted it’s his bakery!)

Rest assured you can join friends and family at The Haughmond and feel you have had one of the best experiences Shropshire has to offer.

This year’s menu is focused on delivering TasTy, simple, seasonal produce aT The besT value.

Whether you cycle by and have coffee, cake or a sandwich after visiting the National Trust, English Heritage or England Forestry sites. Perhaps you have friends visiting but not enough room for them to stay and want to make sure they are well rested and fed. Even if you are not from the area and want a base to explore Shropshire whilst enjoying good food and wine. Mel and Martin can provide it all.

Meatball mac and cheese

The ultimate comfort food and the perfect dish for getting ahead and reheating in the oven when needed. A delicious family meal that is equally indulgent for a special occasion. Want to save time? Use ready-prepared meatballs for a speedy option.

Serves; 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 35 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Meatballs

• 500g pork mince

• ½ tsp fennel seeds

• Pinch of smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper

• Olive oil for drizzling

• Tomato Sauce

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, chopped

• 1 tbsp tomato puree

• 900ml passata

• 1 tsp caster sugar

• Salt and black pepper

Pasta

• 350g macaroni or other pasta shape

• 250g mozzarella cheese, grated

METHOD

• Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas mark 6.

• Place the pork mince in a bowl with the fennel seeds and paprika, and season with a little salt and pepper. Mix to combine then divide and shape the mixture into walnut-sized meatballs.

• Place the meatballs on a greased baking tray and drizzle with a little olive oil. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes until lightly golden. Turn halfway through cooking.

• To make the sauce, heat the olive oil in a large shallow casserole dish and sauté the onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes. Add the tomato puree, passata, sugar and season with salt and black pepper. Simmer gently for 10 minutes.

• Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a pan of boiling water according to packet instructions, then drain, reserving some water. Tip the pasta into the tomato sauce with the meatballs. Add a little of the reserved water to thin the sauce if needed. Scatter over the cheese and place the casserole dish back in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is bubbling.

Nutrition per serving: 555kcal, fat 21g (of which saturates 9.1g), carbohydrates 53g (of which sugars 8.7g), protein 35g, fibre 3.9g

Makes: 20 balls

Ingred I ents

• 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted

• 3 tbsp xylitol or 1–2 tsp granulated stevia

• 220g nut butter (cashew, almond or peanut)

• 4 tbsp coconut flour

• 60g vegan vanilla or berry protein powder

• 1 tsp acai or goji berry powder (optional)

• 50g dried berries (cranberries, cherries etc.)

• Desiccated coconut, to coat

Super berry protein balls

These are a popular snack with adults and children alike and are also a great energising boost before or after a workout – perfect as an afternoon pick-me-up or when you fancy a sweet treat. Make a batch of these and store them in the fridge or freezer.

Preparation time: 10 minutes, plus chilling Cooking time: 2 minutes

Method

• Place the coconut oil and xylitol (or stevia) in a pan. Gently melt over a low heat, stirring to dissolve the sweetener. Allow to cool slightly, then tip into a food processor and add the nut butter. Process briefly until combined.

• Add the coconut flour, protein powder and acai or goji berry powder (if using), and blend again to form a stiff dough. If it seems too wet add a little more coconut flour or protein powder. The mixture should be firm but soft. Add the dried berries and pulse briefly, just to break them up slightly.

• Tip some desiccated coconut onto a plate. Take small spoonfuls of the mixture and shape into walnut-sized balls, then roll them in the coconut until coated on all sides.

• Chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up before eating. Transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4-5 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

formerly swan at forton

Eccleshall Road Newport Shropshire TF10 8BY Tel: 01952 820446 Email: swanatforton@outlook.com Facebook @swanatforton

2 Courses

£15

3 Courses

£18

+ Quiz night on a Monday + Takeaway beer + Live Music

+ Sunday Roasts + Great Vegan menu + Accommodation available

+ Bottomless brunch Call for available dates. (Saturday event from 12.00 till 15.00) Unlimited cocktails or prosecco, plus a dish from our brunch menu all for £35pp!

+ Steak night on a Thursday

2 locally sourced Rump steaks from Buttercross Butchers and a bottle of wine for £40. Get in touch to book your table via FB messenger or phone 01952 820446

Full Buffet & Catering Service also available for any event and size!

Catering Service also available for any event and size!

Tweenage Thing IT’s a

If you have a tweenager, clothes can be tricky. They know exactly what they want and with trends changing weekly, keeping up is a challenge. We’ve put together some cool outfits that won’t break the bank.

Above: Girls Faux Fur Recycled Jacket (Online only), www2.hm.com

Right top to bottom: Khaki Knee Boots £21- £22, www.matalan.co.uk

Girls Pink Cord Shacket £13-£15, www.matalan.co.uk

Older Girls Ripped Jeans £12, www.peacocks.co.uk

www.very.co.uk

Right: F&F Sporty Hightop Shoes £14, www.tesco.com

Below: F&F Boys Jeans £9, www.tesco.com

Below right: Boys Jumper, www2.hm.com

Above: River Island Boys Hooded Denim Jacket £22,

Left: Longline Puffer Jacket £44.99, www.threadbare.com

Shropshire schoolgirl gets scholarship thanks to her charity commitments

Ellesmere College has unveiled the latest recipient of a scholarship to honour locally-born founder of the Save the Children charity, Eglantyne Jebb.

Abi-Lou Foster, from Market Drayton, won the Jebb Scholarship after demonstrating ‘selfless support’ to her community through volunteering and a range of fundraising activities over the last seven years.

The scholarship, which will support Abi-Lou through her two years of A Levels in Sixth Form at Ellesmere College, honours Eglantyne Jebb who launched Save the Children with her sister, Dorothy Buxton, at the end of World War l. The charity now supports children in more than 100 countries.

Abi-Lou said: “Being kind, caring and helpful are values which have always been important to me.

“There are very few people who are aware of the personal commitment which I make to charity work and volunteering.

“I am incredibly grateful that Ellesmere College noted this and I was offered and awarded the Jebb Scholarship.”

Abi-Lou was awarded the scholarship based on her impressive list of volunteering and fundraising activities, including volunteering at Project Farm, a farm which supports young adults with learning disabilities; volunteering at a project for patients with dementia and their carers; and volunteering at a Dogs Trust rescue kennels.

She has raised money for the Alzheimer’s Society, the NSPCC, her local swimming club, The Little Princess Trust, the National Autistic Society, Save the Children, Shrewsbury Ark and has taken a

leading role in the Operation Shoebox Appeal.

Abi-Lou also started raising money for a trip to Borneo to volunteer at the Orangutan Orphanage and Sun Bear Conservation Centre and beach clean ups but, unfortunately, due to Covid this was unable to take place and subsequently the money raised was sent to the World Wildlife Fund.

Future intended ventures include undertaking a lifeguarding course and performing a sponsored skydive.

Josh Millington, from Ellesmere, was the first recipient of the Jebb Scholarship in 2020. He has now successfully completed his A Levels and has moved on to university.

Richard Jebb, Eglantyne’s great, great nephew, said: “Abi-Lou is the second recipient of the Jebb Scholarship and a worthy winner.

“She has consistently shown a commitment to helping others over a period of several years and it is fitting that those efforts should be recognised in this way.

“Her fundraising activities have been imaginative and raised a lot of money to help a range of charitable organisations.

“Abi-Lou also has an enviable record when it comes to volunteering - emphasising her ongoing selfless support to the community, which is what the Jebb Scholarship is all about.

“The charity founded by my great great aunt and her sister was built around the principles of helping others, including within our own community, so I feel sure they would be delighted with the choice of Abi-Lou as the latest Jebb Scholarship recipient.”

Abi-Lou Foster and Richard Jebb

Wrekin features in Cricketer Top 100

A Shropshire school named one of the best in the UK for cricket regularly produces more than a dozen players competing at county level in the boys’ and girls’ teams.

Wrekin College was revealed in The Cricketer’s Schools Guide 2023 as one of the top 100 senior schools in a bumper 156-page supplement.

The successful roll call of schools – which features both state-funded and private establishments – was finalised after an exhaustive selection process that saw a huge number submit entries for inclusion in the guide.

Wrekin has an enviable reputation for producing top players while also boasting some of the best cricketing facilities in the county.

Director of Sport James Shaw said they were delighted to be included after they had stepped up efforts in recent years to play even more cricket and expand the school’s fixture calendar.

Last summer there were almost 100 fixtures in the diary across the year groups with some of the 1st XI players producing outstanding results.

“We also introduced some cricket to the Christmas term while throughout the lockdowns we set pupils challenges in batting, bowling, and fielding to ensure

continuity in standards as much as we could,” he said.

“This recognition of all those efforts and the hard work of pupils who commit to training and giving their all in fixtures is wonderful for the school.”

All entries for the top 100 list were judged against an extensive set of criteria, which included a compelling commitment to cricket in the curriculum, facilities, fixture programmes, and coaching.

Local business support for Derwen Charity Spinathon

Staff and students at Gobowen-based Derwen College are asking the community to get behind a demanding and strenuous bike challenge to raise funds to support students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Two Derwen College sports instructors will be completing a formidable 24-hour spinning session from 10am 24 to 10am 25 March. They will be joined in their challenge by students, staff, supporters and local businesses who will be pedalling alongside them, embarking on their own personal challenges; with some joining for an hour, while others will rise to the challenge of the full 24 hours.

Sports coordinators Sian Thomas and Steve Evans first took on a non-stop spinathon last year raising £8,000 for Derwen Charity. The challenge, they say, was only made possible due the continuous support of students, staff and supporters. Local businesses joined the event offering sponsorship and entering teams.

Fundraising coordinator Anna Evans thanked everyone who supported Derwen Charity last year, and said she was looking forward to even more people joining in for the 2023 challenge.

“We’re pleased to see returning local businesses and excited to welcome new organisations too. Support can be through sponsorship packages, donations of raffle prizes, or by entering as an individual or as a team. All the money raised helps support students with SEND,

providing opportunities for our students to truly progress and thrive,” she said.

Sports instructor Sian Thomas admitted that last year’s challenge was hard.

She said: “The struggle was real, especially in the small hours of the morning, but we all got through it, and the event was hugely successful. We had an amazing support team, and were joined through the day and night by friends, family, colleagues and students. Our supporters were the motivation and the inspiration to keep going.

“All the money raised helps support our students with SEND, providing extra experiences and opportunities for our students to reach and exceed what they and others thought possible.”

For more information on supporting the Spinathon contact 01691 661234, email Sian at sian.thomas@derwen.ac.uk or Anna at anna.evans@derwen.ac.uk. www.derwen.ac.uk/charity/

Sian Thomas and Steve Evans

How many bacteria, fungi and viruses are there in your body?

On Monday Callum, Harry’s friend at school was - well - not at school. He apparently had Strep A and would have to have a few days off - at least until the antibiotics had had a day to work and he had no temperature. He was back in no time and it made Harry think of ways to skive off school! He wondered how many bugs there were in the world and got a real shock. Apparently, there were about 40 trillion bugs in just his body. He couldn’t even work out how many noughts that involved! Only about 100 billion humans had ever existed so it looked like the bugs were winning. There were so many that he decided to concentrate on Strep A – it seemed to be on the news quite a bit and apparently 100 kids had died with it this winter.

At breakfast it was too good an opportunity to miss. His sister had her favourite necklace on: beads on a string. “I think you have bugs on your necklace” Harry announced. She looked suitably annoyed. “Streptococcus means beads on a chain according to the Greeks,” he continued. She stood up and left with what could only be called a flounce - Harry was pleased – a good start to the day!

Then it started – a sore throat and later that night he felt very hot. The next day he had a sort of sandpapery red rash on his tummy and his Mum phoned 111. He did see the Doctor who said he had scarlet fever - he said it was more like scarlatina really as he was not very ill but Harry was now on antibiotics and got two days off school which was almost worth it he thought. When he looked up how you caught it he wondered if Callum had given it to him after all. Apparently, it was really infectious and it took

a few days, or a bit longer, to develop. You could get it from droplets of saliva or just by touching something carrying the bug. His Mum made him wash his hands even more than usual.

Later he googled scarlet fever and scarlatina - which seemed to be the same thing. “Perhaps it was not such a good thing really,” he thought. He found out that about 30,000 kids had it every year but it was usually in the spring and had been earlier and more common this year. In some kids – often a bit younger than him, it could be worse and was called iGAS which might have seemed funny but was anything but - It meant invasive group A strep and was a nasty and often fatal version of his illness. “Any way I’ve had it now so won’t get it again,” he said to his Mum. “Sadly, it doesn’t work that way for this crafty bug,” she replied, “but it is usually quite mild so you should be ok.”

Harry got a bit worried after all this – if he had all those noughts of bugs inside him and just one could cause all this that was not good news. Then he found out that most of these bugs are “good bugs”. They actually battled the “bad bugs” and kept them away – sort of crowded them out – and with 40 trillion that was a big crowd! Some actually helped make things his body needed and you could even buy products containing the good bugs. He wasn’t absolutely sure about eating bugs, but many people seemed to which was interesting.

“I’ve decided I don’t mind being home to my bugs,” said Harry to his sister over lunch, “and I think perhaps your necklace is full of good bugs really”. He thought it was a peace offering but she flounced off again anyway!

Then it started – a sore throat and later that night he felt very hot. The next day he had a sort of sandpapery red rash on his tummy and his Mum phoned 111.

Dr Paul Middleton

Fostering changes lives

Could you care?

If you have ever considered fostering there are probably more ways that you can do this than you realise. You need to have a spare room and be over the age of 21, that’s it. If you could provide a loving, stable home to a local child, there are no barriers, whatever your background or lifestyle, subject to checks.

Peter, a foster carer for two boys, said: “When you see a young person grow and fulfil their potential, the feeling is amazing. I also see the positive impact on my own children. They have learned to be very open, tolerant and reflective. My younger son has natural rapport and trust with young swimmers that he now teaches and that is down to his experience of sharing his home with the many children we have fostered.”

If you think you have what it takes to foster a local child, please contact us on 01952 387387 or visit our website for more information www.telfordfostering.co.uk

Childcare Choosing a nursery

Looking for the perfect nursery for your child? Here’s a few things to keep in mind…

Decide your priorities Everyone wants their child to be safe and happy. Beyond that, what are your main priorities? Are you looking for a small nursery where all the children play together or one where the children are split into groups depending on their age? Do you want your child to go to a nursery that follows the government’s EYFS framework, or one that follows a different approach, such as Montessori or Steiner Waldorf? Perhaps you want a nursery with plenty of outdoor space?

It’s OK if you don’t have all the answers just yet, but it’s a good idea to have at least a rough idea of what you’re looking for.

Consider location People tend to focus on nurseries near their home, but it may actually make more sense to choose one that’s nearer to your workplace. However, do consider what will happen if you move jobs or want to work from home more often. If you and your partner work in different locations, it may be easier having a nursery that’s closer to home, so that you can take turns dropping off and picking up. A nursery close to home may also mean your child moves up to primary school with a group of friends, which could make the transition easier.

Ask around The best recommendations usually come from friends, as they’ll likely share many of your views on childcare. However, it’s also worth asking for opinions on your local Facebook group and other social media channels, and checking websites such as www.daynurseries.co.uk.

Once you have a shortlist of nurseries, you’ll want to read each one’s OFSTED report at reports.ofsted.gov.uk.

Check the small print Scrutinise the different policies and websites of the nurseries you’re considering. You’ll want to compare:

• Fees and any extra costs, such as meals and penalties for late pick-up

• Opening and closing times

• Staff-to-child ratios

• Staff qualifications

• Holiday policies

• First aid training

• (It’s also worth downloading the checklist at www.childcare.co.uk/information/ nursery-is-your-child-ready.)

Visit your shortlisted nurseries Even if you have your heart set on one particular nursery, it’s worth visiting at least three so that you can compare them. Write down any questions you have before you go. You’ll want to see whether the children look happy and engaged, how friendly and knowledgeable the staff are, what different activities the children are offered and how clean and safe the setting seems. You’ll also want to check where and when your child will take their nap, what type of food they’ll eat and whether there are quiet areas they can retreat to if they’re feeling overwhelmed.

Ultimately, you want to be armed with all the information you need to make the right choice. However, there’s also a lot to be said for trusting your gut instinct. Which nursery feels right for your child?

Parklife

Are you BORED? Do you need to get out more?

As the winter comes to an end many people are desperate to get outside and enjoy the improving weather.

Yes, you could go for a walk, but wouldn’t it be nice if, as well as that, you could have some fun and make new friends.

Have you considered playing Lawn Bowls?

NO, it’s not a boring game

NO, it’s not just for ‘old fogies’

This is a game that can be played by all ages. It gets its ‘senior’ reputation mainly from the fact that most games are played during the day when younger folks might be working.

Anyone who is available to play a couple of afternoons per week is welcome. You may be retired or semi-retired or you may be working and doing shift work. Men and women are both welcome and we have a good mix of players of both sexes with a wide range of ages.

It’s kept informal and players wear casual clothes such as jeans and shorts. The only requirement is to wear FLAT shoes, so that you do not damage the green.

The Oswestry Bowling Club meets for friendly games at the bowling green in Cae Glas Park near the centre of Oswestry on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from

2.00pm to 4.00pm and welcomes new members.

In essence, the game is simple. A small yellow ball is rolled across the green. That is called the ’Jack’. All you have to do is aim to get your own bowls closest to that Jack.

“That’s all,” you say!

“That sounds SIMPLE.”

It takes just minutes to learn but much longer to get really good. Several of the members of Oswestry Bowling Club say they are still waiting for that time to come!

Not a game for ‘Old fogies’!

If you have never played the game before, you may find it useful that the club offers free lessons to help new members.

You don’t have to own your own bowls (or woods, as they are also called), you can borrow some until you decide if this is a sport you would like to continue.

The Oswestry Bowling Club is a non-league club. The advantage of this is that they just play ‘social bowling’ for pleasure. As they are not in a league, you don’t have to make a commitment to play every session. You will not be letting team mates down by not being available.

To ensure that the best players cannot form a team to beat the weakest or less experienced players

each time, numbers are chosen from a bag which determines who you are playing with and against.

Normally, four games are played each afternoon, with the players changing for each game.

In order to add a small amount of competitiveness, players pay £1 per session to try to win the prize for the highest score of the day. As new players may be paired with experienced players, even they can win a prize.

One of the more experienced members, Judy Bristoll, jokes that this is her ‘supplementary pension’. However, as the prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place are only £3, £2 and £1, it’s more a bit of fun. The club’s annual subscription is less than £1 a session for the season.

If you are in the park on a Tuesday or Thursday between 2:00pm and 4:00pm from April to the end of September, why not have a look and see if you might enjoy playing this game.

Club officials will always be on hand to chat to you. Why not come and have a try?

Please speak with us on the green or CONTACT our club secretary, Brian Savage, on 0780 391 5618

CorsicaDiscover the Alta Rocca

With 40% of the land protected by a Regional Nature Park, Corsica is often called the ‘Isle of Beauty’, a worthy epithet as beyond the fabulous coastline, the hinterland has its own spectacular scenery. Down in the south, just inland from the popular resorts, the Alta Rocca is one of these lovely mountain regions laced in walking trails with only a couple of minor roads winding their way across the land. Up there time seems to stand still.

Forests rich in oak and chestnut trees, lofty Laricio pines, pastures, tumbling streams and dramatic rocks, this is a paradise for all nature lovers. Red kites soar in the thermals and there are peregrine falcons, golden eagles and bearded vultures with a mighty wingspan. Nuthatches splash colour in the trees, lizards and salamanders scamper along the tracks, wild cats and boars forage here and there. Meanwhile deer graze in the shade but the mouflons with long horns like to perch on the most inaccessible rocks, basking in the bright Mediterranean sun. Flowers and plants vary with the altitude but favourites include myrtle and thyme, the delicate blue ancoli peeping out of rocky crags and the wild sweet-scented immortelle.

The Alta Rocca starts in Ospedale, the first mountain village at 900 metres, then stretches north towards the Bavella pass where at 1,218 metres one enjoys superb views of the pink rocky ‘needles’ by the same name. This is on the old transhumance route and the nearby

trails invite you to explore further. It’s an awesome spot protected by the statue of Our Lady of the Snows, installed with great difficulty by local monks.

It may feel like the roof of the world but besides its natural wonders, the Alta Rocca is a land of hilltop villages where traditions survive on the ‘heritage trail’. On the western edge, Sainte Lucie de Tallano is a lively little place, all granite houses and cobbled lanes with convent and church, old bread ovens, oil mill and nearby thermal springs in their natural settings. Then there’s Levie and its Alta Rocca museum and the ‘coutellerie’ where traditional Corsican knives are still made in various shapes and sizes. Yet this pretty village has other claims to fame for if you feel like a walk, a trail can lead you to the archaeological site of Cucuruzzu dating back to the Bronze Age. It’s quiet and atmospheric, dotted with remnants of walls, tower and storing areas. According to historians however, the Alta Rocca has 9,000 years of history, making it one of the oldest inhabited districts in Corsica.

At just over 300 metres, the village of Sartène can vouch for that, with a museum of prehistory, nearby dolmens and menhirs and gateway to the highlands, once known as the Land of the Lords. Enjoy the local wine then, as you wander through stepped alleyways and narrow lanes framed by granite hills, you may well agree that as the locals say, Sartène is ‘the most Corsican of all Corsican villages’.

Do you need help finding your

match?

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Stay connected to those you love and book your FREE 15-minute hearing health check.

Stay connected to those you love and book your FREE 15-minute hearing health check.

Hummingbird Hearingcare recommends Sister Kate for Ear Wax Removal T: 01691 888 192 | W: www.sister-kate.co.uk

Hummingbird Hearingcare recommends Sister Kate for Ear Wax Removal T: 01691 888 192 | W: www.sister-kate.co.uk

Call us on 01691 654 327 enquiry@hbhearingcare.co.uk

www.hummingbirdhearingcare.co.uk

Call us on 01691 654 327 enquiry@hbhearingcare.co.uk

23 Leg St, Oswestry SY11 2NN

www.hummingbirdhearingcare.co.uk

23 Leg St, Oswestry SY11 2NN

Sister Kate celebrates

Sister Kate Limited has become the first ear wax removal clinic in Shropshire to become regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Who are the CQC and what does this mean?

CQC is the independent regulator of health and adult social care in England. They make sure health and social care services are safe, effective, compassionate, high-quality and they also encourage care services to improve.

CQC also monitor, inspect and regulate services and publish what they find. It is now a legal requirement to be regulated by CQC if you are a Registered Nurse offering ear wax removal services.

Kate Haining, owner of Sister Kate Ltd said, “This is an unbelievable achievement for our team and to be the first to achieve this in the county feels great.

“Undertaking CQC regulation is no easy task and it means that the fundamental standards are the standards below which our care must never fall.

“Our staff, governance and premises are all now regulated in order to deliver a world class ear wax removal service.”

CQC regulation does not currently apply in Wales, but it is expected that this may change in the future. You should always attend CQC registered clinics when looking to receive the best levels of service from any care provider.

To dye or noT To dye

It’s a dilemma faced by most people of ‘a certain age’: let your hair go grey, or reach for the dye bottle?

Grey hair is one of the strongest visual indicators of age and even if you’ve managed to avoid some of the other obvious signs, such as wrinkles and a sagging waistline, your hair colour will give you away every time.

If you’re uneasy about the prospect of growing older, then the chances are that you will do whatever it takes to retain your youthful hair colour, even if it means regular trips to the hairdressers or struggling to make sense of an off-the-shelf dye kit: “part hair into strands and, wearing the gloves provided, tip bottle A into container B and shake well before applying”.

Why we go grey Our natural hair colour comes from a pigment known as melanin, produced by the hair follicles. As we age our follicles produce less melanin, resulting in grey and silver tones. The age at which you turn grey and the amount of hair affected depends largely upon your genes, but the average person will spot their first grey hair in their 30s and most people will have noticeable grey strands by their 40s. By the age of fifty, fifty per cent of people will have gone grey.

The aging process also makes your hair follicles and the oil glands in your scalp shrink, resulting in hair that is thinner, dryer and more brittle. People of both sexes may also lose some hair as they grow older. Although we tend to think of hair loss as an exclusively male preserve, women can also lose volume as a result of hormonal changes during the menopause.

Grey is the new black Women may also feel under greater pressure to keep up a youthful appearance. While an older woman who refuses to colour her hair may be described as ‘brave’, a grey haired man enjoys the much more flattering label of ‘silver fox’. But grey hair shades can be chic for both sexes, whatever their ages: young, hip celebrities such as Rihanna, Zayn Malik and Nicole Ritchie have recently hit the headlines for adopting silver grey hair shades and the trend for grey colourants is growing.

Why more of us are refusing to dye It’s ironic that while younger people are now choosing to colour their hair in grey and silver shades, many older people are turning away from hair dyes. While there is no single cause for this change of attitude, there are several reasons why the number of cheerleaders for being ‘grey and proud’ may be on the rise. Lockdown certainly escalated the trend. With

hairdresssers closed and people working from home, many saw this as an opportunity to chop out the old dyed growth and embrace the grey.

Is hair dye harmful? Scare stories about the dangers posed by certain chemicals have continued to surface, in spite of a major re-think by manufacturers in the 1980s, when research revealed that substances used in hair dye at that time caused cancer in mice. While modern studies have shown that prolonged exposure to hair dye chemicals may give professional hairdressers an increased chance of contracting cancer, no concrete evidence has yet been found to suggest that hair dyes are unsafe for regular personal use. The jury is still out on the risks faced by today’s consumers but even a tiny seed of doubt may be enough to persuade some people to stop colouring their hair.

We can’t turn back the clock As we age, our skin colour alters, picking up more yellow tones. This means that a mature skin tone may no longer look as good against a vibrant, youthful hair shade (although if you do decide to colour your hair a professional hairdresser will be able to advise on the best shades to use). Because aging hair is dryer and more brittle, the chemicals in permanent dyes can leave the hair looking dull and lifeless, so a desire for healthier looking hair – whatever its colour - may ultimately persuade us to let nature take its course.

Role models lead the way Back in the day it was an unspoken rule that any celebrity over 40 should automatically dye their hair. These days, however, we’re surrounded by high profile figures sporting grey hairstyles – think of male celebritiess such as Gary Lineker, José Mourinho and George Clooney and female high rollers like actress Meryl Streep, Jamie Lee Curtis and Andie MacDowell. Far from hinting at age and infirmity, their grey hairstyles exude power and charisma.

These days we are all living longer, in better health, and it may simply be that the trend towards accepting grey hair shows we are more relaxed about the aging process, living life to the full instead of hiding away. To quote celebrity hairstylist and founder of Twitter’s @ thegreyglammovement, Cynthia Alvarez: “Grey is the new black. The colour has taken on an entirely new life and meaning – today grey is beautiful, sexy, chic, fabulous!”

Nutrition

Are you eating enough fibre?

Discover the benefits of increasing your fibre intake – by Guts UK charity

Fibre is the indigestible part of plant-based foods that does not get absorbed into our body. Many of us are aware of fibre and know it’s an important component of any healthy diet, yet most of us don’t eat enough of it.

We used to believe that fibre didn’t do much at all, assuming that because the human body couldn’t digest it, it just ‘travelled’ through our digestive system. In fact, fibre is absolutely vital for gut health, helping to prevent constipation and even bowel cancer.

Fibre makes us feel full and affects the way that the small bowel absorbs fat, but perhaps most importantly, fibre is the food for over 100 trillion microorganisms that live in your gut. This ‘good gut bacteria’ is vital to your well-being, defending against

harmful microorganisms and easing absorption of some essential vitamins. Therefore, it’s important that we feed it!

“The average person in the UK eats less than 20g of fibre per day, or less than two-thirds of the recommended 30g amount. Through recent research, we know that additional fibre in the diet reduces the risk of chronic common conditions, such as bowel cancer, cardiovascular disease, strokes and type 2 diabetes,” says Julie Thompson, specialist dietician and information manager at Guts UK charity.

Foods that are rich in fibre include wholegrain cereals, wholewheat pasta, oats and wholegrain bread. Fruit and vegetables such as berries, pears, melon, oranges, broccoli, carrots and sweetcorn are also rich in fibre, as are peas, beans, pulses, nuts, seeds and potatoes.

There are a number of simple steps you can take to increase your fibre intake, like swapping white or brown bread for wholegrain, opting for wholewheat pasta or choosing potatoes with skins, such as baked potatoes, wedges or boiled new potatoes. When snacking, try fresh fruit, rye crackers, oatcakes and nuts or seeds.

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Funeral Director

Available day & night. You can rest assured that we will take care of all of your wishes with dignity and respect

• On site memorial showroom

• Pre-paid funeral plans with Golden Charter

• Private dedicated Chapel of Rest

All areas covered

Stair lift referral S • Mobility in S urance

Service S on M obility product

Scooter / wheelchair hire

r epair S on M obility product

JAM CARE was born out of a desire to make a difference! In 2018, our founder James Nichols, decided to turn his back on corporate life and his 20+ year career in Finance, so he could do something that would make a difference. Having seen family members and close friends struggle for years to access consistently good complex care at home, James set his sights on building an organisation that would do just that.

At JAM CARE, we do things a little bit differently…so we don’t want to waste this opportunity telling you things you already know…like that our care is person centred, that it’s nurse led, that we offer the full range of complex care support services, and that we truly understand catastrophic injuries and how they impact our clients lives….these are all a given at JAM CARE, as they are for every great complex care provider. So, we want to take this great opportunity to tell you what makes JAM CARE just a little bit different.

WE INNOVATE - Every JAM colleague is coached to be an innovator. On a daily basis they “review, assess, and update” how we support each and every client.

CARE IN OUR DNA - We only recruit people who genuinely care. Training courses are essential, but if caring is not in your DNA, then JAM isn’t the company for you.

WE EMPOWER OUR COLLEAGUES - We recruit smart people and empower them to do great things! Every JAM colleague is an ambassador for JAM, and they have the mandate to make decisions and improve what we do every single day.

WE ARE AGILE - We never let bureaucracy and committees get in the way of great work and great ideas.

WE COMMUNICATE BRILLIANTLY - We are extremely active in communicating with and keeping up to date everybody associated with

Helping you live a rich, independent & full life at home

a client’s care, including the client, their families, friends and loved ones, the JAM colleagues, as well as our wider JAM CARE health and social care partners (District Nurses, GP’s, Occupational therapists etc), using whatever method works for them…F2F, phone, WhatsApp, FB, Insta, text, email, video call, we even pen the odd letter!

WE SUPPORT CHIMNEY POTS - JAM’s support isn’t just for the client, it’s for everyone under that chimney pot: the families, friends and loved onessee above.

WE ARE AWARD WINNING - JAM CARE won the Regional Care Newcomer of the year award at the 2021 Great British Care Awards, and then came Runner up in the 2022 National Finals where CEO and Founder James Nichols was HIGHLY COMMENDED, with the judges saying, “We were so impressed with James’ innovation and passion to transform the care offered to his clients, his knowledge and passion is admirable.”

Finally, to get a true sense of JAM, it’s best to hear it from someone we support.

“JAM CARE just makes the impossible possible. They’ve ensured my daughter is cared for by a team of trusted (and consistent) carers, who have all built positive relationships with her, and know and understand her specific needs. JAM’s approach just removes the stress and trauma that people with complex needs, like my daughter, go through every day as part of normal life. Finally, the personal sacrifices and extra effort I see JAM carers and the management team make every day honestly restores my faith in the Care industry. I feel so lucky that my daughter is cared for by JAM xx.”

Mum of a JAM Client

For more information contact JAM CARE at www.jamcare.co.uk/joinjam @FBJAM C A re recruitment@jamcare.co.uk Oswestry 01691902384

COPING WITH ARTHRITIS

Put simply, arthritis means inflammation of the joints and can be due to numerous causes. Although it is thought of as a disease of the elderly, it can affect people of all ages, even children. There are more than a hundred different types and over 10,000 people in the UK live with the disease.

Arthritic symptoms can be very debilitating, with joint pain, stiffness, loss of movement, swelling and bone deformity. Two of the commonest are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis can affect the knees, hips, spine, and fingers. It occurs when cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the joints wears away or becomes damaged through illness or injury. It can also have a hereditary factor.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack its synovium – the soft tissue around joints that produces lubricating synovial fluid. Over time, this damages the joint. It can also lead to systemic symptoms such as generalised fatigue, loss of appetite and even anaemia.

Sadly, arthritis is not curable but there are treatments that can help alleviate symptoms. The first step is to go and see your GP, who can check your joint condition and range of movement and refer you to a specialist for assessment.

Treatments for arthritis aim to reduce pain and swelling and to help with movement. They can include medication, physiotherapy, walking aids, steroid injections into the joint, or in severe cases, joint replacement.

Targeted exercises that strengthen the muscles around the joint will help alleviate pressure and reduce pain. A relatively new and effective treatment for osteoarthritis is AposTherapy®, which works to realign your joints and improve your gait or walking pattern through the daily wearing of special customised footwear. Treatment can take several years but results over time have shown greatly decreased levels of pain in patients.

Applying heat pads or ice packs can also help temporarily relieve pain and/or swelling. The most important thing is to keep the joint moving as much as

possible. Although your instinct may be to rest, this will be detrimental in the long term.

Your doctor may recommend you for surgery –usually a hip or knee replacement. Currently knee replacements do not last as long as hip replacements, so consultants are not as willing to carry them out on younger people.

Losing weight will help as it reduces pressure on the joints. You may find that certain foods exacerbate your arthritis, so choosing a diet rich in antioxidants can be beneficial. Avoiding fatty, processed and sugary foods can make a difference.

There are also supplements available over the counter that reduce inflammation and support joint health, such as curcumin and glucosamine. It is now believed that some people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis are sensitive to gluten, so cutting this out of your diet may be worth trying.

Living with arthritis is not always easy, but do not despair as there is help available.

The most important thing is to keep the joint moving as much as possible. Although your instinct may be to rest, this will be detrimental in the long term.

I want to be more active but…

By Scott Gormley

Many people start the new year with fitness and lifestyle goals and resolutions. One of the biggest problems we hear is that existing injuries have stopped them continuing or achieving them. With many people’s goals to move more in the new year, we see a shift from a winter full of shoulder, neck and lower back pain to knee, foot and hip pain becoming more prevalent in the early part of the year.

Knee pain more than any other, causes more people to stop exercise than other joints. Existing injuries, tendon and ligament problems and arthritis all play a part in a painful knee. The key to successfully achieving your goals is normally understanding your limitations and good planning. If you know what you can and can’t do and what would benefit your knees, many people manage and resolve their symptoms successfully.

As a physiotherapist we are experts in exercise prescription and regularly guide patients through their recovery from injury. One of the biggest tricks of our trade is to grade people’s exposure slowly and gently allow them to get used to exercise and then progress. This is typically the mistake that most people make when starting a new regime. We would generally apply a 10-20% rule when increasing the duration or distance of any exercise

and not be worried about having a week where you didn’t increase at all. Sometimes our bodies need to adapt, and this can happen more slowly when we have had a previous injury.

Knee injuries come in 3 main categories, Muscle and Tendon, Ligament and Bone (arthritis). Understanding exactly why you’ve experienced knee pain previously and what type of knee pain you have will help you manage and resolve your injury. Typically, rest and or painkillers are used by many, this can be very useful in the early stages of an injury but once the main symptoms have reduced, prescribed exercises are then the most helpful for all knee injuries. Alongside exercises you may require shockwave treatment, massage, manipulation, acupuncture and or orthotics. In certain cases, we recommend braces and supports for knees to help maintain function and improve strength.

We work closely with local specialists, surgeons and GPs, for those patients who need extra support or a scan. We have a pathway set up to get you seen quickly by the right person.

If you have struggled previously with any injury and you’d like to understand it further, you can now book direct online www.shropshirephysiotherapy. co.uk or give us a call 01952 825025

If you know what you can and can’t do and what would benefit your knees, many people manage and resolve their symptoms successfully.