bloom Magazine East Belfast Issue 24 • January 2014
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January 2014
Contents
So that’s another year done and dusted. Crazy. Its become a but of a cliché to say “that flew in”, or “I don’t know where the time goes”. But that year flew in, I don’t know where the time goes. Working on Bloom, the year is mapped out in blocks of deadlines for all sorts from advertising to print to interviews and so on. Once you hurdle one it’s on to the next and all of a sudden the year is zooming past. But over the course of the year you never know who you are going to meet or hear from. We get people emailing and phoning all the time with news, events and projects that are going on right across the community and it’s a great buzz being able to share them every single month because then we get feedback from that and so it grows. So although we have some sort of rough plan for the magazine every month scribbled down on the back of an envelope somewhere, we can never ever account for the people that get in touch and blow our minds with yet another great thing that we transfer to your brains via the medium of paper. And I suppose that all falls nicely into that other cliché, time flies when you’re having fun. Happy New Year everyone.
Stuart, Angela, Juanita Bloom Magazine Belfast @bloommag Bloom Magazine 308 Albertbridge Road Belfast BT5 4GX Tel: 07719 104862 Editorial: stuart@bloommagazine.co.uk Advertising: angela@bloommagazine.co.uk Accounts: info@bloommagazine.co.uk Printed by Nicholson Bass www.nicholsonbass.com
Eas Belfast is in t Bloom !
4 Local News Jam packed with all the news from your community and beyond.
20 happy new you Two healthy opportunities to explore right on your doorstep
22 health and beauty The Secret Day Spa’s new year beauty commandments.
24 girl loves vintage Our favourite vintage explorer discovers yet more belters to share
26 what’s on January can be a bleak month. So why not keep busy?
32 cookbook Jane McClenaghan of Vital Nutrition shares her amazing healthy recipes
34
be prepared
Local heating and plumbing business RJS Patterson’s winter advice
36 financial advice T Nixon Associates set out how you can turn over a financial new leaf
38 photography Bring your memories back to life at Dundela Photo Lab
Any views expressed within are not necessarily endorsed by Bloom Magazine or Newborn Media. Reference to any specific product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Links and contacts are provided for user convenience and do not constitute or imply endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Any reproduction without permission is prohibited.
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l Locas w Ne s View
Bloom News
Email: stuart@bloommagazine.co.uk Twitter: @bloommag Facebook: Bloom Magazine Belfast Web: bloommagazine.co.uk
newtownards road traders celebrate a fresh new look Have you noticed the new signage, painting and lighting to shops along the Newtownards Road? Over the past four months, Belfast City Council’s ‘Renewing The Routes’ programme - set up to address environmental degradation on Belfast’s main roads and bolster economic and physical regeneration - has been making improvements to shop frontages and carrying out other works to make the locality look brighter. With this most recent tranche of the programme, this has included working with the Newtownards Road and Inner East Traders Association, whose Chair, Karl Bennett, has welcomed the scheme and the positive impact it has had locally and stressed the importance of supporting local traders.“We are asking all the local communities to use the local businesses for all their shopping needs if they can.The local traders play a vital part in creating local employment, they play a key role in delivering for the local economy and it is on that note that we also ask for the relevant support from our politicians. When you look up and down the roads and you see how many businesses are there, you then take into account that there a huge number of jobs that go to many of the local people.” Belfast City Council secured an additional £310,000 from the Department for Social Development meaning more businesses on the Newtownards Road will benefit from improvement works this year belfastcity.gov.uk/renewingtheroutes
Congratulations to Grosvenor pupils Samuel Brown, Christina Cousins and Alexandria McClune who were each awarded with prestigious ʻMilleniumVolunteer Goldʼ certificates at a ceremony held at Londonderryʼs Guild Hall recognising the two hundred hours or more of volunteer work the pupils have committed over the past year. Samuel served as a Games Ambassador for ‘World Police and Fire Gamesʼ as well as volunteering in the ʻWaakisaʼ Charity shop every Saturday. Christina has been volunteering at ʻDunlady Houseʼ Nursing Home in Dundonald as well as at the ʻMarie Curie Centreʼ and her local Girlsʼ Brigade once a week, the latter of which also saw her participate in a seventeen day mission trip over the summer. Finally Alexandria, who was also a Games Ambassador for the ʻWorld Police and Fire Gamesʼ, has additionally worked on an elective basis at her local ʻCancer Focusʼ Shop as well as at ʻRavara Productionsʼ, an Amatuer Dramatic Group. 4 bloommagazine.co.uk
Samuel Brown, Christina Cousins
Pictured with Ivan Chang (15), Campbell College, Belfast, runner-up of the art senior category competition, are (l-r) are Cool FM DJ Kathryn Wilson; Lee Kane, Regional AntiBullying Co-ordinator, Northern Ireland Bullying Forum; Education Minister, John O’Dowd; Noel Purdy, Chair, Northern Ireland Anti-Bullying Forum; and Translink’s Robert Butler.
PUPILS’ CREATIVE TALENT ACKNOWLEDGED AT ANTI-BULLYING AWARDs The creative talents of young people from across NI were showcased at a special awards ceremony at the Playhouse Theatre, Derry/Londonderry for the winners of an anti-bullying art and creative writing competition. The competition was part of this year’s Anti-Bullying Week (18-22 November) which is co-ordinated by the Northern Ireland Anti-Bullying Forum (NIABF) and supported by Translink. Other Belfast Anti-Bullying competition award winners were: Jack Pentland (7), Leadhill Primary School, Castlereagh, Belfast, joint winner of the creative writing junior category, and Carl McVeigh (15), Fleming Fulton School, South Belfast, who received a special merit prize for his art competition entry.
Volunteer Management Courses
GEMS NI Job Clubs and Rapid Impact
Volunteer Now offers a range of volunteer management
Programme. GEMS are running a
training. Recruiting & Selecting Volunteers: This ac-
series of weekly “job clubs” across
credited course is the recommended first step for people
East Belfast for employment guidance
interested in developing their volunteer management
and advice. They take place in the
practice. 14 & 15 Jan 10am-4.30pm in Belfast. Young People & Volunteering: The Essentials: This FREE one day workshop covers a wide range of volunteer management issues relevant to the support of young volunteers. It is designed specifically for people, whether in paid or
following locations: Monday - Enler Centre Ballybeen - 1pm to 4pm. Tuesday - Brooklands Youth Centre - 1pm to 4pm. Wednesday - Cregagh
unpaid roles, that work with volunteers under 25 years
Community Centre - 1pm to 4pm.
old. 23 Jan 10am-4pm in Belfast. Managing & Motivating
Friday - Hanwood Centre Tullycar-
Volunteers: This accredited course is the key course for
net - 10am to 12pm. First Tuesday of
development of volunteer specific management tools and
every month 10am to 12pm Tullycar-
skills.4 & 5 Feb, 10am-4.30pm in Belfast.
net Community Services. GEMS are
Leisure Cycle Club - Bikeway East • The biggest group yet with eight members completed a recent route to Woodvale
also running a new “Rapid Impact” programme offering mentoring and
Park and plan to continue their weekly outings every Fri-
further support as a follow-on from
day from 10am leaving Avoniel Leisure Centre. To find out
the Steps to work programme. For
about cycle outings, support available and further infor-
more information contact Aileen
mation contact Alan Houston, Health Development Worker
Graham on 028 90332313 or email
(Outer East) on 028 9045 1512 or email alan@ebcda.org.
a.graham@gemsni.org.uk. bloommagazine.co.uk 5
Bloom:News Pictured at the Fuel Poverty Coalition’s ‘Running on Empty’ conference from left to right are: Aodhan O’Donnell, Consumer Council Interim Chief Executive, Ross Brown, East Belfast Oil Club, Declan Allison, Friends of the Earth, West Belfast, James Hunter, Green Spaces, Bangor and Pat Austin, Chair of the Fuel Poverty Coalition.
Time For Reinvigorated Approach to Tackling Fuel Poverty A woman whose chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer intensified her reaction to the cold, a parttime worker and mother who calls herself ‘Miss Arrears’ and dreads the electricity meter siren ringing in her ears every Monday morning when the weekend emergency supply runs out, were two of the stories shared at the Fuel Poverty Coalition’s ‘Running on Empty’ conference. Prompted by a deepening energy and fuel poverty crisis, the conference aims to reinvigorate plans to end fuel poverty in NI. Chair of the Fuel Poverty Coalition, Pat Austin, said: “The most striking Government commitment that Fuel Poverty would be eradicated in vulnerable households by 2010 has passed and not been delivered. Furthermore, the commitment to eradicate fuel poverty in all households by 2016 will not be met without a radical rethink. Thousands of NI households are facing unmanageable choices about where to spend their limited income and a brutal set of market conditions mean that the time has come for a reinvigorated approach to tackling fuel poverty. That’s why we are holding the ‘Running on Empty’ conference bringing our 160-strong membership together with experts with over 20 years’ experience, as well as real families who are living in fuel poverty.” NI has the highest level of fuel poverty in Western Europe, with 42 per cent of households spending more than 10 per cent of their income on energy. That’s almost three times the level of fuel poverty in England (15 per cent). Libraries NI is now providing a number of free programmes for community groups in Ballymacarrett, Woodstock and Short Strand. These can be delivered by library staff in the library or by staff going out to groups. Aimed at both adults and children, the programmes include a mixture of fun and lively events as well as an exciting selection of learning opportunities. Rhythm and Rhyme sessions offer parents/guardians the opportunity to enjoy favourite nursery rhymes with babies and toddlers and 4-8 year olds can develop a love of stories and books with storytime. The Got IT programme helps adults get to grips with computers by providing one to one tuition, right from the very basics of mouse control to setting up email and internet searching. For those with some IT experience there is a selection of Go ON sessions such as Shopping online, Ancestry, get that job, editing digital photographs and social networking to name a few. Libraries NI can also help you to set up a reading group and can deliver introductory talks on our full range of library services including online resources. Contact Nikki Terlik 07850 774 640 Nicola.Terlik@librariesni.org. uk or Anne Maxwell 07850 205 436 anne.maxwell@librariesni.org.uk 6 bloommagazine.co.uk
Bloom:News Training to enhance childcare for children with disabilities Children in Northern Ireland (CiNI), the regional umbrella body for the children’s sector, has launched further training to enhance childcare for children with disabilities. The Pupils in East Belfast celebrated recently when the first sod was cut on a new £3.5m building at Victoria Park Primary School. Minister for Education John O’Dowd and BELB Chairperson Rosemary Rainey cut the first sod for the
latest programme of training, which includes a wide range of courses on subjects such as deaf awareness, Makaton language, austism, struc-
new building and joined Principal Andrea Gourley, gover-
tured play, and epilepsy awareness,
nors, staff and pupils to celebrate the start of a new era for
has been designed to increase the
the school. “This is a fantastic day for the pupils, parents,
confidence of childcare providers in
staff and governors at Victoria Park. It is a day that at times
meeting the needs of children with
we thought would never come and I have to pay tribute
disabilities. The training, which is
to all the parents who have continued to support us over
funded through the DHSSPS via the
the past few years,” said Mrs Gourley.Victoria Park PS
Executive’s Childcare Fund, will help
was formed in 2008 by the amalgamation of Strand PS and
establish and sustain an increase
Sydenham Infants School. It is one of 13 capital projects an-
in childcare providers who are able
nounced by the Minister in June 2012 and will be built under the BELB’s strategic partnership agreement which has built eight new schools in Belfast since the agreement was signed in 2008. The new school is due to be completed in April 2015. Pictured: Education Minister John O’Dowd and
to; understand and respond to local need; are accessible for families; are able to integrate with other childcare providers. To find out about the
BELB Chairperson Rosemary Rainey with Principal Andrea
range of training courses, dates, and
Gourley and pupils, Meg Watterson, Jessica Montgomery,
locations across Northern Ireland
Ben Miskelly, Ben Bennett.
visit ci-ni.org.uk Tesco Castlereagh Road hosted a Christmas lunch with members of the local community on Monday 16th Dec. Community Champion Arnette Martin said, “We invited along members from the Royal British Legion, some local people from the Loopland fold and a few customers who we meet with every couple of months in order to get feedback and ideas to ensure we offer the service and products the customers want. As a company and store we place a great deal of importance in being involved with the local community.”
8 bloommagazine.co.uk
The Secret Garden Restaurant at Dundonald Nurseries
Gourmet Night
Saturday 18th January 2014 Chicken liver pate, spiced pear chutney & toasted soda *** Butternut squash & celeriac soup *** Seville orange sorbet *** Sea bass fillet, chorizo & butter bean cassoulet *** Corn fed supreme of chicken, dauphinoise potatoes & chasseur sauce *** Lemon & raspberry posset with a sablet biscuit *** Tea or coffee and petit fours £30.00 per person Bring your own wine Booking is essential - t: 028 9048 4000 Please let us know of any dietary requiremenets when booking
The Secret Garden Restaurant at Dundonald Nurseries
The Secret Garden Restaurant at Dundonald Nurseries
Two Ulster Frys for £10.00
Beef Stew £4.45
Must be used before 11.45am. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion.
Must be used after 12pm. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion.
Valid from 01.01.14 Expires 31.01.14 78 Old Dundonald Rd, Dundonald, Belfast, BT16 1XS
t: 028 9048 4000
w: www.dundonaldnurseries.co.uk/secretgarden
Valid from 01.01.14 Expires 31.01.14 78 Old Dundonald Rd, Dundonald, Belfast, BT16 1XS
t: 028 9048 4000
w: www.dundonaldnurseries.co.uk/secretgarden
Opening Hours: Mon - Sat 8.30am - 4.30pm Late Night Thursday and Saturday 8.30am - late
78 Old Dundonald Road, Belfast, BT16 1XS facebook.com/secret.garden.dundonald W: www.dundonaldnurseries.co.uk/secretgarden T: 028 9048 4000
did you get bloom delivered this month? 1. On Your Doorstep
2. Don’t panic - Get Your Bloom Locally...
If you did, then expect to get it again! It’s two years since we launched Bloom.We’ve grown and changed significantly over that time and the support from local businesses and the readers has been a fantastic inspiration and motivation. It’s why we started in the first place; to showcase the community. It’s hard work and we are a very small operation but we want to grow further and reach even more people. Distribution through the letterboxes is an absolute must and as part of our pan to grow our distribution you will now receive it every other month. So the next time you hear Bloom drop on the door mat will be March, May, July and so on. In the months in between when you don’t get Bloom, we will be delivering the magazine to a different set of homes in East Belfast which means we are reaching twice as many people in the community in the space of 8-9 weeks.This is very important for us to get the message out there to more and more people and for local businesses to share their message too.We couldn’t have got this far without your support so we hope our new plan works for you and you enjoy receiving the magazine. But what about those months in between I hear you ask? Not a problem, we have that all sorted...
Don’t worry, because in the month you don’t get Bloom delivered to you, we have outlined below our local network of stockists who have kindly agreed to make the magazine available for you to pick up. We encourage you to call in to the one handiest to you or handy to where you shop. Pick up your copy there and maybe stay and have a coffee, buy something and continue our goal of shopping local. PLUS we have just confirmed that Tesco Knocknagoney have kindly agreed to stock Bloom beneath their community board on the way out past the tills which is amazing news! We thank them for believing in Bloom and what we are trying to do.
3. New Website www.bloommagazine.co.uk Or you can read a version of the magazine online via our brand spanking new website! Yes in another bombshell of news we have now launched a fantastic new user friendly website which will contain each edition and will grow over time. We hope you like it. We’re very excited by it and we thank brandingbay.com for all their hard work in helping us put it together. We don’t want you to feel abandoned in the intervening months of receiving Bloom because you have been a tremendous support from day one, so we have provided you not only with our wonderful stockists to enable you to collect the magazine on your travels but also the shiny new and unique platform that is our website to read the latest bits and bobs in the comfort of your home, from your mobile or on your tablet.
Stockists of Bloom
Baja cantina • Belmont Tower • Bennetts • Cafe Smart • Chatters Connswater Shopping Centre • Cream the Coffee Shop • Davidson Newsagents • East Belfast Partnership • Eat etc • Foodie Folk • Greens • Ground Coffee Knock Road • Hillmount Garden Centre • Lily’s Bistro • Mookie World • No 36 • The Secret Garden • SD Bells • THE Silver leaf • Skainos • storm in a tea cup • Sydenham Post Office/Margarets • Tesco Castlereagh Rd • Tesco Knocknagoney • The Wingrove.
Once again we thank you for making Bloom what it is today. Bloom Magazine City East Business Centre 68-72 Newtownards Road BT4 1GW info@bloommagazine.co.uk 10 bloommagazine.co.uk
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Bloom:News A group of ex-patients from the cardiac department of the Ulster Hospital meet every week in the Aslan Centre at Knocknagoney to take part in exercises and games from 7pm to 9pm on a Thursday evening. The club is open to all heart patients in the area who feel they could benefit from sharing support with like minded individuals who want to reduce the risks of further setbacks. Contact; Alan Houston, Health Development Worker (Outer East), on 028 9045 1512 or email alan@ebcda.org or ring Bob Buick, Secretary on 028 9087 3637.
REFOUND UNVEIL NEW WEBSITE DESIGN Ethical upcycled interiors emporium ReFound launched a brand new e-commerce website, bringing their stylish range of furniture, gifts and home accessories, all repurposed by local artists and makers, to the rest of the UK, Ireland and beyond! As well as making ReFound accessible to a wider audience, the website will provide a fantastic platform to
Things are hotting up at The Secret
promote the work of their in-house artist collective. Pro-
Garden at Dundonald Nurseries The
viding a home for a new blog, the site will feature regular
management of The Secret Garden are
interviews with artists, communicating the story of their
proud to announce their recently ap-
collaboration with ReFound as well as updates on cur-
pointed new head chef, Andrew Fulford.
rent ReFound projects in Belfast and beyond. Jill O’Neill,
Andrew has worked in the hospitality
ReFound founder, is delighted at the prospect of introduc-
industry for over fourteen years and
ing ReFound to pastures new: ‘It’s really exciting that we’ll
is bringing his vast culinary expertise
now be able to engage with customers further afield and
to the Secret Garden. His new menu
that ReFound fans will have the opportunity to keep up to
will launch in January and a Gourmet
date with our work and products whenever and wherever!’ night is planned for Saturday the 18th of January 2014 at a very reasonable As each product has a unique personality, the site allows browsers to delve into the organic growth of each piece
price of £30.00 per person for seven
from ‘found’ to ‘refound’, with the story behind the artist
courses. Please book to avoid disap-
and the processes involved in recreating an old piece into
pointment. Come and try his culinary
a contemporary bespoke work of art. Visit www.refoun-
delights sometime soon!
donline.com and you’ll find much more than just a piece of
78 Old Dundonald Road, Dundonald.
furniture... Facebook.com/theRefoundshop
Tel: 028 9048 4000
twitter.com/refoundonline
dundonaldnurseries.co.uk/secretgarden
12 bloommagazine.co.uk
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Bloom:News
New Year Resolution? Why not join the Avoniel Community Garden As we start the New Year many of you will have set your New Year resolutions. Perhaps you want to be healthier or just want to try something new? Why not make a resolution that will give you new skills as well as getting you out in the fresh air and making new friends - join the Avoniel Community Garden! The Avoniel Community Garden is now one year old and we are delighted with the progress that has been made by a dedicated team of local groups and residents in developing what was an unused space into a vibrant and fun community garden. With over 2,000 volunteer hours the volunteers have a lot to proud of including re-energising a disused space, creating a healthy, fun and welcoming environment, hosting family events and fun days and generally helping make east Belfast a better place. Things have quietened down over the winter months but this month we want new volunteers to join the Avoniel Community Garden. Don’t worry about experience as there’s lot’s to pick and choose from including planting/sowing new crops and assisting with community events and activities at the garden. A big thank you and a very Happy New Year to all who helped develop the garden, particularly our partner groups including Oasis – Caring in Action, Bloomfield Community Association, Lower Castlereagh Community Group, East Belfast Missions Going Green project, East Belfast Community Counselling and Swann Training Services. Their commitment and dedication to building a space for all within the community has ensured the success of the garden and we look forward to a fun and productive 2014. The garden sits along the Connswater Community Greenway route in east Belfast and is funded by Belfast City Council. If you are interested in getting involved with the Community Gardenn contact Sean from the Connswater Community Greenway team on 9046 7930 or e-mail sean@eastbelfastpartnership.org. You can follow progress online: communitygreenway.co.uk facebook.com/ConnswaterCommunityGreenway or on Twitter: @ConnswaterCG 14 bloommagazine.co.uk
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Offering beauty, waxing, nails and tanning along with a comprehensive selection of treatments and products including L’Oreal, Organic Colouring, Fantasy Tan and Lauren’s Way.
... on selected colours and beauty treatments throughout January. Get in touch for our New Year offers!
71 Belmont Road BT4 2AA Tel: 028 9065 1333
Bloom:News Tesco staff at Castlereagh Road cycled 2250 miles at their Cycle to Lapland event this Christmas to raise £1015.15 for Diabetes UK. Staff added to the Christmas spirit by wearing festive fancy dress and we had Santa for two 0f the days. The money raised counts towards £10 million fundraising target for Diabetes UK. Sam Larkin store manager at Castlereagh Road said: “We worked hard to make our cycle to Lapland event bigger and better than last year and we had really good fun spreading some festive cheer in store. Customers have been incredibly generous and I’d like to thank them all for donating to what is a very worthwhile cause.” For more information on the National Charity Partnership between Tesco and Diabetes UK, you can visit the website at www.diabetes.org.uk/Tesco
Prince’s Trust SUCCESS STORY One young entrepreneur from Belfast has turned his back on unemployment with help from The Prince’s Trust Enterprise Programme. Ryan McGuigan is now a totally different person than he was 2 years ago. He is motivated and loves managing his own time, focusing his energy into both the business and his interest in fitness. Holistic Therapies Belfast sells different types of massage therapy services to meet a host of clients’ needs including stress relief and muscular tension and pain. Ryan also educates them about how they can prevent aches and pains and also about a selection of stress management techniques. Through the Enterprise Programme Ryan has been able to establish a new business offering a service to help the local community while at the same time being something which he enjoys. Ryan has learnt a lot from his mentor, programme staff and the Trust as a whole. He feels that this experience has improved his depression, increased his standard of living and boosted his self belief and worth. He hopes to grow the business over the next couple of years, bringing in kick boxing classes and growing the Herbalife element. Ryan would also like to take on an apprentice, giving another person the opportunity to learn new skills. Ryan says “Turning my passion for fitness into a career has been a lifelong goal and I would definitely recommend it. Without the help of the Prince’s Trust, I wouldn’t be where I am today…the ongoing support has helped me turn my business idea into a fully trading business, just pick up the phone and call them.” For your chance to benefit from the Enterprise Programme contact Bronagh McCulla, 02890895018/07921396663 or bronagh.mcculla@princes-trust.org.uk 16 bloommagazine.co.uk
Family financial planning specialists since 1995.
FREE MORTGAGE REVIEW TO THE VALUE OF £250 Quote ‘Bloom’ when making an appointment before 31st January 2014 to qualify for the offer. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. When charging, our normal fee is a minimum of £250 or 0.5% of the loan amount, if greater, on completion. Typically this fee would be £250.
T Nixon Associates 1st Floor Unit 1 75b Sydenham Road Belfast BT3 9DJ 028 9073 8550
249 Castlereagh Road 028 90 450 281 Mon-Fri 9:30am-5:30pm Wed 9:30am-8pm Sat 10am-2pm www.clrbelfast.co.uk
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We will discount your letting fee if you let us manage your property! RENTAL DIVISION When LETTING with UPS you get: •No registration fee •Up to 10 property websites •Professional referencing When MANAGED by UPS you get: •Rent guarantee scheme •Photographic inventories •Periodic inspections •Tenant deposit registration
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Bloom:New Year Opportunites shine bright like a diamond! Slimming World Consultants are well known for being the most dedicated when it comes to real help and support through one of the most difficult things anyone ever has to do in their lives; so winning a special award for doing just that is pretty exceptional. Sally who celebrates 5 years as a Slimming World Consultant opened her group in Holywood in January 2009 and says “This job is so very special. Watching someone change from having no confidence, being embarrassed about their size, and wearing shapeless clothes to someone who looks and feels great, brings its own rewards on a daily basis. To have your work recognised in this way is, I must admit, a very proud moment.”Since opening the Holywood group members have lost an incredible 16,172lbs (1,155stone which is over 7 tonnes!). Sally opened a second group in Ballyhackamore last January. “It has been an amazing year for the Ballyhackamore group and the weight losses there have been fantastic too! In their first year they lost an amazing 287 stone which his over a ton of weight! Often people have tried losing weight before and failed. But it isn’t them who failed it’s the programme that failed them, either because the diet was too strict and impossible to sustain for more than a few days or because the support just wasn’t there. Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan isn’t a diet, it’s too generous to be called a diet. It helps people make small, easy changes to the way they shop, cook and eat so they make healthier choices and lose weight without ever going hungry or ever feeling like they’re missing out. And each week in group we make sure everyone’s motivated for the week ahead. If you’d like to shine like a diamond this year why not come along to one of my groups – Ballyhackamore group meets every Tuesday at 5.30pm & 7.30pm in Bloomfield Collegiate School, Astoria Gardens and the Holywood group meets every Thursday at 5.30pm & 7.30pm in Holywood CFC Community Hall, 65 Church View. Phone 07738 713436.
hit the floor in 2014 with your local pilates expert “Pilates is designed to give you suppleness, natural grace, and skill that will be unmistakably reflected in the way you walk, in the way you play, and in the way you work” - Joseph Pilates. East Belfast’s Neil Healey runs Neilpilates. “I design my classes to give you a total body workout that will leave you feeling energised, strong and flexible. We need our strength and flexibility to be in balance as too much or too little of either will result in muscles not working or connecting properly leading to reduce performance and quite possibly pain. Pilates uses slow controlled exercises designed to work and strengthen your core and superficial muscles that can be safely carried out by all ages and fitness levels. Pilates is particularly good for flattening and toning the abdominals as well as toning the waist, thighs and bottom because all or some if these areas are worked in every exercise. Strong core muscles keep your spine in its correct alignment allowing your body to work properly and effectively without pain or stiffness. It will improve your posture, your balance and your circulation and therefore your general sense of well-being. Getting your posture correct can make you look 2 to 5 lbs thinner. I run classes every night Monday to Friday and do 1 to 1 personal sessions 8:45 to 18:00 on Saturday and Sunday. All my classes as well as the other Neilpilates instructors can be found at www.neilpilates.com.” 20 bloommagazine.co.uk
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Health & Beauty
30 Belmont Road • 028 9067 1914 • secretdayspa.co.uk
Ring in the New Year in style with our top 5 Beauty Commandments from hair to skin. What’s your New Year’s resolution? Don’t stress over fitting into your skinny jeans. This year, make a vow to pamper yourself more often. From the wet-look nail finish that will instantly upgrade your look to the lipstick shade to brighten your day and white smile tricks to boost your confidence, we’ve got 2014’s make up tips all sewn up.
re 1.I Will Smile Mo Since you’ll be smiling a whole lot more in 2014 beware that anything that will stain your teeth so steer clear of dark foods where possible. And, if drinking fizzy drinks or even coffee, use a straw to protect teeth. Then rinse with water straight away to neutralize the effect. Accelawhite teeth whitening kit will remove any stains and give you a confident smile to start the New Year! - £30. 2.I
Vow To Brighten Up
‘Lipstick is the new investment piece. Just leave out red. Red is timeless, but it’s more formal and grown-up. Coral, pink and orange are fun, upbeat shades that look youthful and flattering against, golden dewy skin - 2014 is all about looking fresh and your makeup colours should reflect that.
3.I Shall Upgrade My Mascara Take care of your eyelashes and make a resolution to upgrade your mascara every three months. Need an excuse? Benefits new Real Mascara. They’re real and it’s the UK’s No.1 best-selling mascara! Lengthens, curls, volumises, lifts & separates. Our jet black, long-wearing formula won’t smudge or dry out. A specially designed brush reveals lashes you never knew you had! On
e Dewy Skin Look 4.I Will Work th As we head into spring (well, nearly), it’s time to ditch your matte foundation in favour of the new dewy skin finish. Last year was all about perfecting a matte, Old Hollywood finish. This year, we’ll see a return to a more sheer, radiant complexion achieved with lots of moisture and hydration. It’s all about looking understated with a hint of iridescence. We love Youngblood Liquid foundation. £35 for a healthy glow, topped with a highlighter on cheekbones.
The LASH
5. I Will Let My Brows Grow Many women have over plucked their brows to fit with the latest trends, but this year natural eyebrows are back, which are so much more youthful, So, tempting as it is, put the tweezers down until they’ve grown back fully, then begin lightly grooming with minimal tweezing, combing and filling with a soft pencil. You cant go wrong with Youngblood Brow Atriste Kits £30.
Happy New Year Everyone! All products available to buy : www.shop.thesecretdayspa.co.uk + free p&p 22 bloommagazine.co.uk
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that’s (january) entertainment! It’s January, which means that the excesses of Christmas and New Year are as far off as ever! I can’t even think about another mince pie, let alone eat one. And please don’t mention chocolate…If you’re anything like hubby and I, January is the month of the ultimate detox - a renewed focus at the gym, a keener eye on the bank balance and more weekends in front of the fire than in the local hostelry!
Joining The Vintage Dots!
With this self-imposed austerity comes a need to take your mind off the grim reality of post-festive life, on a budget of course. Charity shops have great entertainment options to wile away the cold, dark nights of January until the longedfor stretch in the evenings reappears. I was so delighted to find this vintage dominos set in Oxfam. These beautiful little wooden bricks remind me so much of my primary school. I
VINTAGE CLASSIC!
Vintage wooden dominos set, £1.00, Oxfam, Ballyhackamore
remember that they were stored in the same cupboard as the multi-coloured counting blocks - that cupboard seemed like a treasure chest to a 5 year old at the time. There’s nothing like a bit of nostalgic entertainment to pass a cold and wintry evening. And oh how the packaging appeals to my vintage loving heart!
Book Me In For a Bargain! I also found a bargain in the Barnardo’s store at Connswater - 5 books for £0.99 and they’re not even read. There’s an incredible selection of books in this store, not to mention rails full of clothing at 99p an item. It’s great for a rummage. So picture the scene - fire roaring in the stove, a big mug of tea, a cosy blanket and you, 50 pages into a total page-turner as the wind roars outside. Perfection. Who needs Christmas parties!
Five books, £0.99, Barnardo’s, Connswater Retail Park
You really can do January entertainment on a budget, and don’t forget the vast array of dvds, cds and board games that charity shops also have on offer. And before I leave you this month, a final thought. Charity shops are crying out for stock at this time of year, so if you have received a gift that’s not quite you, pass it on. A cause close to your heart will appreciate it very much. 24 bloommagazine.co.uk
Rosie x
NOW PRINTING DIRECT FROM ALL PHONES SMART PHONES & TABLETS Dundela Pharmacy Ltd 17-19 Belmont Road BT4 2AA Tel: 9047 2845
FULL DIGITAL SERVICE & STILL PROCESSING FILM!
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What’s On
Toddler Groups Mondays Sydenham Parent & Toddler
Mon 10-11.30 £1 per family Tea/coffee/juice/toast. Inverary CC BT4 1RN Tel: 028 9047 1456
10-11.30 Cregagh Park, BT6 9LF 028 9079 2793.
Wandsworth Mums & Chums
10-11.45am Wandsworth CC 26a Belmont Church Rd BT4 3FF £1 per family. Calvary Mums & Toddlers.
10.30-12.00am. £1 per family. 100 Dee St, BT4 028 9073 2331
Tuesdays Albertbridge Congregational 10.30-12.15 Woodstock Link Donation £1
CFC Mops & Tots
9.30-11am (term time - alternate Tuesdays) £1 for one child, £1.50 total for more.Tea, coffee, juice and snacks provided. 9.30-11am (term time - alternate Tuesdays) £3.50 per mum including breakfast and creche provided. 10 Belmont Rd, BT4 2AN Tel: 028 9067 1838 www.thisiscfc.com
Mersey Street Presb. Parents & Toddlers
Strandtown Baptist Tots 10.15- 11.45am (term time) Strandtown Baptist Church, 1 Clonallon Court BT4 2AB Tel: 028 9080 8380 £1 per adult
Tots & Co Toddler Groups 10.15- 11.45am (term time)
St Finnians
CFC Mops
£1 for adults.Tea/coffee/juice
Cregagh Methodist Church £1.50 per family per morning (incl juice/ snack & tea/coffee/snack for the adults. 28-30 Cregagh Rd BT6 9EQ Tel: 028 9045 7564
Wednesdays Busy Bees
10 -11:30am Knock Methodist Church, Knock Road, BT5 6JA Tel: 028 9065 3413
Luncheon Club
For senior citizens. Cregagh Methodist. 12 noon. £1.50. Pre bookm meals at the church office on 028 9045 7564.
Orangefield Baptist Church 37 North Road, BT5 5NE Mothers & Toddlers 10.30-12
smallTALK @ orangefield
10-11.45am O’field Church & Community, 464 Castlereagh Road BT5 Tel: 07745 076911 www.orangefield.org.uk Willowfield Mother & Toddler
10-12pm W’stock Rd, BT6 8PR Tel: 028 9045 7654 office@willowfieldchurch.co.uk
Thursdays Bloomfield Methodist Church
10-11.45am term time Mersey St Pres BT1 1EX Tel: 028 90 657025 aburcombe@gmail.com www.merseystreet.org.uk £1 donation
10-11.30am £1 per family
10am-12 Bloomfield Avenue Tel: 028 9065 2321 www.stdonards.com
Parents & Toddlers. 10-11.30am Upper Newtownards Rd £1 donation www.kirkpatrickmemorial.org
St Donards Church
26 bloommagazine.co.uk
Grand Parade 028 9065 8946.
Cregagh Mums & Tots 10-12pm Cregagh CC Mount Merrion Avenue Tel: 028 9040 1444
Kirkpatrick Memorial Presb
Knock Parent & Toddler 10-11.45am Knock Presbyterian 53 Kings Road, BT5 6JH Gillian 07803 117619. knockpresbyterian.co.uk
Fridays Tots ‘R’ Us
10.30am House of Worship 127a Orby Drive, BT5 6BB Tel: 07791 776307/07980 984506
St Columba’s Mums & Tots 9.45-11.45 (term time) St Columba’s Parish Church 29 Kings Road 028 9065 1412
Events Etc
MONDAYS Ballyhackamore Library
1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204 Books R Us 9-11 yr olds reading group (third Mon of month) 3.30-4.30 Knit & Natter (2nd & 4th Mon) 2-4pm Bedtime Stories. 7pm. MeTime (Last Mon) Group for busy women
Bean Blessed
Bloomfield Ave Congregational Church FREE tea/ coffee, scones & pastries. 10.30-12 Everyone welcome.
Harding Memorial
Rainbows girls age 4-7 Monday 6pm, Brownies girls age 7-10 Monday 7pm Guides girls aged 10-14 Mondays 7pm. Contact Clare 07905 556825.
Skainos Building skainos.org
Badminton 2-3pm Crosslinks - Cross Community Arts 7-9pm 14-21 yr olds. Contact Andy Hill.
Strand Cinema & NI Stars Holywood Road, BT4 .nistars.com Singling & dancing 7-8pm
Wandsworth Community 028 9065 1668 Zumba 6-7pm Aerobics 7-8pm Yoga 8.15-9.30pm
KNOCKBREDA HIGH SCHOOL
KNOCKBREDA HIGH SCHOOL OPEN EVENING 2014
KNOCKBREDA HIGH SCHOOL OPEN EVENING 2014
OPEN EVENING ursday 23rd January 2014 7.00 pm until 9.00 pm
Address by the Principal: Mrs Gordon at 7.00 pm
KNOCKBREDA HIGH SCHOOL
OPEN EVENING OPEN EVENING 028 9064 9302 028 9069 2007
Knockbreda High School Upper Knockbreda Road, Belfast, BT6 ONE
Thursday 23rd January 2014 • 7pm - 9pm ursday 23rd January 2014 Address by the Principal: Mrs Gordon at 7.00 pm 7.00 pm until 9.00 pm Address by the Principal, Mrs Gordon at 7pm info@knockbreda.belfast.ni.sch.uk
We look forward to meeting you! Knockbreda High School Upper Knockbreda Road Belfast BT6 ONE
Telephone: 028 9064 9302 028 9069 2007
info@knockbreda.belfast.ni.sch.uk
www.knockbredahighschool.org.uk
to MEETING YOU WE LOOK FORWARD 028 9064 9302 Knockbreda High School Upper Knockbreda Road, 028 9069 2007 Belfast, BT6 ONE
Build For a Brighter Future info@knockbreda.belfast.ni.sch.uk
Kip McGrath Education Centres offer professional tutoring programmes for primary www.knockbredahighschool.org.uk through to high school students. We help build the foundations for academic success. Reading & Spelling
English & Maths
Book now and prepare
Comprehension
Literacy & Dyslexia Support
your child for ANY
Preparation for CEA, Multiple Choice Transfer
Ages 6-18
educational stage from
Individual Programmes of Study
Key Stage 3, GCSE, A-Level & Essential Skills
P2 to Upper Sixth.
Contact Jan on 9046 9662 for a FREE assessment
Kip McGrath Education Centre 104 Loopland Drive, Belfast BT6 9DX
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What’s On
Tuesdays Belmont Tower
www.belmont-tower.co.uk Core fitness 9.30am-10.30am Childrens dance classes 4-7pm Zumba Classes 6-7.15pm Pregnancy Yoga 7.30-8.30pm
Skainos Building skainos.org Compass Womens Group 7-9pm Zumba 12.30-1.30pm
Lily’s Bistro
223 Castlereagh Rd. 028 9045 4287 Curry & Quiz Night - First Tues of each month.
Wandsworth Community Sewing Group 10am-12noon Flower Arranging 1.30-3.30pm,Yoga 7-8.30pm
Thursdays Ballyhackamore Library
1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204 Rhythm & Rhyme (first & third Thursdays of the month) 11.15am Book Pack (1st Thur) Adult reading group Game On 6-8pm for games galore
Belmont Tower
Wednesdays
www.belmont-tower.co.uk Art classes 10am-1pm Baby Sensory Classes 7-13 mths Thurs 10-11am 0-7 mths Thurs 11.30-12.30 Yoga with Sharon 6-8pm E Belfast Historical Society 9th Jan Presbyterians in East Belfast
Girls Brigade
Circuit Training Class
Wandsworth Community Kids Irish dancing 4-6.30pm, Aerobics 7.15-8.15pm Tai Chi 8.15-9.30pm
Bloomfield Ave Congregational Church Ages 3-7 yrs 6.15 pmAges 8 yrs upwards - 7.30 pm bloomfieldcong@gbni.co.uk All girls welcome.
Over 60’s Lunch Club
Bloomfield Methodist Church 12.30pm. 3 courses for £3. Grand Parade.Tel: 028 9065 2314 to book.
Skainos Bulding skainos.org Compass Kidz Gap - Parents, guardians, toddlers - crafts, games, stories 10am-12 Going Green Gardening 2-4pm Yoga 5.30-7pm
Strand Cinema & NI Stars Holywood Road, BT4 Drama 6-8pm www.nistars.com
Belmont Tower
www.belmont-tower.co.uk Baby massage 10am-1pm Yoga with Eleanor 5.45-7.45pm 39th Old Boys 7-9pm
Newbridge Football Club
The club invite 5/6/7 year old boys and girl to play football.Training every Wednesday at Avoniel Leisure Centre 7-8pm. Everyone welcome. 28 bloommagazine.co.uk
www.belmont-tower.co.uk Belcanto School of Singing 10-1pm
Line Dancing
Bloomfield Ave Congregational Church £3 per person.
Skainos Building skainos.org Fusion - Weekly programme of games, crafts & fun for p1-p7’s. 6.30-8pm £1 per person. Contact Tanita Robinson.
Wandsworth Community
Busybees musictime for babies 9.45am10.45am £3.95 per family. Computers for beginners 10am-12 and 1-3pm, Childrens Ju Jitsu 7-8pm Fitness & Boxing Class 8.30-9.30pm
Shiloh Hall
07712 299206, 76 The Mount, BT5 4ND Coffee Morning 10:30-12 Children welcome.
Saturdays
For men & women of all shapes, sizes and fitness levels.Thurs @ 6.30pm in Bloomfield Presbyterian. First class free! email: chris@davidsonfitness.co.uk
Orangefield Baptist Church
Skainos Building skainos.org
Walking Trips from 10am
Vibe Academy - Weekly streetdance programme. p1-p4 3.30-4.30pm P5-P7 4.30-5.30pm 1st yr+ 6.45-8pm. £6 per class. Contact Lisa 07736 315420. Compass Mens Group 7-9pm
Wandsworth Community
028 9065 1668 LA Dance (kids Hip Hop) 5-6pm Aerobics 7-8pm. Core Combat 8.30-10pm
Fridays Albertbridge Congregational 6 Woodstock Link 028 9045 7434 Friday Friendship - Everyone is invited for a cuppa and a chat anytime between 10.30am - 12.30pm.
Ballyhackamore Library
1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204 Chill Out Family Story Time. 3.30pm.
Belmont Tower
37 North Road, BT5 5NE Searchlight Club p1-p7. 10.30-12.
Skainos Building skainos.org Strand Cinema & NI Stars
Holywood Road, BT4 Stage school 10-1pm www.nistars.com
Wandsworth Community 028 9065 1668 Jump Jiggle & Jive 9.30-12.30, Childrens Art Class 10am-11am & Ignite teens dance 1.30-4.30pm
Sundays SD Bells-Java Jive Jazz Brunch 516 Upp N’Ards Rd. 028 9047 1774 - 11am
Strand Cinema & NI Stars Holywood Road, BT4 Singling & dancing 1.30-3.30pm www.nistars.com
stuart@ bloommagazine.co.uk
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BATHROOM REFURBISHMENT SPECIALISTS • Specialising in a complete service from free visit and consultation with Mark Patterson • Finished to a very high standard • Our refurbishments include – removing the old bathroom, removing the old tiles, removing walls – building walls, replacing or renewing bathroom windows and doors, tiling, electrical, joinery, plumbing and complete fit out all organised by the team. OUR BATHROOMS PICTURED BELOW WERE ALL COMPLETED IN 5 DAYS! Project One BEFORE
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VISION PROPERTY
52-54 Upper Newtownards Rd Belfast BT4 3EL
TO LET £9,999 per annum
This large commercial premises spread over three floors previously traded as a very successful unlicensed Bistro serving breakfasts, lunches and evening meals. The current accommodation may be suitable for a change of use to a hot food takeaway with sit in dining, retail use, hairdresser or office suite. The property is situated on one of East Belfast’s busiest roads, the Upper Newtownards Road, at the corner of Grampian Avenue. There is an abundance of on street parking close by and a public car park to rear. The commercial unit consists of generous ample accommodation over 3 floors which has been recently extensively refurbished and is in very good decorative order.
Fixed Fee SaleFee Fixed Sale Fixed Fee Sale £950 + VAT £950 + VAT £950 + VAT
• Spacious accommodation over 3 floors • Traded previously as popular Bistro • Situated on busy route into City Includes • Ample parking and car park to rear FRee ePc • Flexible lease may be considered • Ideally suited To Pizza Carry Out / Sit In Terms And conditions Apply • Ideal for conversion to offices 8 Grand Parade,And BT5 conditions 5HH TEL: (028) 9070 2999 Terms Apply • Suitable for hairdressers / beauty salon www.visionpropertyagents.co.uk
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Terms And conditions Apply
CONTACT 028 9070 2999 8 Grand Parade, Belfast, BT5 5HH Info@visionpropertyagents.co.uk
carrot and ginger soup
Quinoa Sunrise
NEW YEAR RECIPES From Jane McClenaghan of Vital Nutrition Has Christmas left you looking like you have been inflated, but feeling deflated? Local expert nutritionist Jane McClenaghan is tackling this issue head-on with the launch of her new cookbook; The Vital Nutrition Cookbook, packed full of easy-to-follow, delicious recipes and tips for energy and vitality. Jane has been a Nutritional Therapist for over fifteen years and in that time has helped thousands of people to make easy, manageable changes to their diets for the good of their health, she grew up in family where growing, cooking and eating simple, healthy food was part of the fabric of life. As well as her busy clinic at Framar Health in Belfast, she runs cookery classes, wellbeing workshops and specialises in deaveloping corporate health programmes for companies all over Ireland. The Vital Nutrition Cookbook is. available at Waterstones and Easons inBelfast, Framar Health and online at www.vital-nutrition.co.uk priced £12. Check out these fabulous, easy, energy boosting recipes, perfect for kick-starting your New Year, new way of living… 32 bloommagazine.co.uk
happ y new you!
Quinoa Sunrise Serves 1 2 tbsp cooked quinoa Handful of mixed seeds (sunflower, pumpkin,sesame,hemp or flaxseed) Cinnamon,ground cloves,nutmeg or mixed spice Low GL fruit (berries, sliced pear, grated apple) A dollop of natural yoghurt •Combine the quinoa and seeds in a breakfast bowl. •Sprinkle with your choice of spice and top with the fruit and yoghurt.
carrot and ginger soup
asian beef salad
Serves 4
Serves 2-3
1 dsp coconut oil 1 large onion,chopped 6 medium carrots, chopped 75g red lentils Pinch of dried chilli flakes 1 litre vegetable or chicken stock 1 inch root ginger, peeled and grated (about 1 tsp) Juice and zest of 1/2 orange
1-2 tblsp oyster sauce 1 clove garlic, chopped 1/2 to 1 chilli (depending on how hot you like it),chopped 200g fillet steak, thinly sliced 1 tsp coconut oil For the salad: 3 or 4 spring onions, chopped 100g beansprouts 1 red pepper, sliced 1/4 cucumber Bunch of coriander, chopped A few strips of preserved ginger 2 tblsp sesame seeds
•Heat the oil in a heavy based pan. •Add the onion and cook until translucent. •Add the carrots, lentils, chilli flakes and stock. •Simmer for 15 minutes, until the lentils are cooked. •Remove from the heat. •Grate in the root ginger and add the orange juice and zest. •Blitz everything in your blender until
smooth.
asian beef saled
•Put currants, sultanas and prunes into a bowl with the sherry,swill the bowl a bit,then cover with clingfilm and leave to steep overnight •In a large bowl, combine all the remaining pudding ingredients, •Add the steeped fruits, and Guinness
•Scrape and press the mixture into the prepared pudding basin, squish it down and put on the lid. Then wrap with a layer of foil , steam for 5 hours
Pomegranate and Red Grapefruit Salad Serves 1 1 pomegranate 1 red grapefruit •Scoop the pomegranate seeds into a bowl. An easy way to do this is by cutting the pomegranate in quarters and separating the seeds from the membrane with your fingers or a spoon. •With a sharp knife, segment the grapefruit, removing all the pith and place in the bowl with the pomegranate. *Serve as a weekend breakfast starter, or use as a topping on granola or muesli. ********************
Pomegranate and Red Grapefruit Salad
bloommagazine.co.uk 33
in the pipeline
Plumbing & Heating Expertise loca FAMIL l BUSIN Y ESS
RJS Patterson and Sons is a third generation family run business, specialising in complete bathroom refurbishment. It was originally started in 1968 by Robert James Shaw Patterson then handed over to Laurence Patterson who is still here working hard and giving advice to his three children Mark, Lisa and Paul Patterson on a daily basis. The business is now run by siblings Mark and Lisa Patterson. Across the business there is a great team who have been working together on the bathroom refurbishments for over 10 years that includes plumbers, tiler, electrician, joiner and builder to combine to cover all aspects of their industry. They work well together and are all managed onsite by Mark Patterson who oversees the bathroom projects run smoothly and are finished to a very high standard. On average bathrooms take approximately five working days to complete, throughout which the customer will not be without water, heat or the use of their toilet! But it doesn’t end there, the company also include a dedicated aftercare service. All work carried out is explained thoroughly each day. Covering all of Belfast and beyond, the team at RJS are a one stop shop for all your plumbing and heating requirements. Check out their website and Facebook page for more ‘before, during and after’ photos to see their amazing transformations in action.You can also call the office and book a free visit from Mark Patterson to discuss your new bathroom. Or see RJS Patterson at the Kings Hall Self Build/Improve Your Home Show in February.
Vital tips from RJS Patterson to prepare your home for the inevitable cold snap... • Lag all pipes outside
efficiency condensing
• To prevent freezing
and in the loft including
boiler which stores/
pipes, power flush to
corners to be covered to condenses the heat and ensure no heat loss.
clear any build up in
re uses it therefore saving your radiators to ensure money.
• Insulate aLL hot
they heat to their full potential saving you on
water tanks, keeps water
• Change your mains stop
hot longer therefore
cock to a sure stop push
using less fuel/electric.
button which is much
fuel. • And finally....
easier to access in the • Change your boiler from case of bursts pipes or
wear a big woolly hat,
a standard to a high
gloves and scarf!
leaks that may occur.
111 Mealough Road, Carryduff, BT8 8LT Tel: 028 9081 7899 / 028 9081 7901 E: lisa@rjspatterson.com www.rjspatterson.com 34 bloommagazine.co.uk
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A Financial New Leaf
local financial advice
Tony Nixon, Practice Principal at local Family Financial Planning specialists, T Nixon Associates, chats to Bloom about turning over a new financial leaf in 2014. FINANCIAL ADVICE SHOULD SAVE MORE THAN IT COSTS
Turning Over A New Financial Leaf For 2014 Four key things to tackle in 2014 to boost your financial security:
“The first rule of thumb when
1.1. “Review your mortgage Interest rates have been stagnant for so
considering taking on a Financial
long but this is unlikely to be the case for the foreseeable future.
Adviser is that it should save you
Have your mortgage reviewed to make sure you are getting the right
more money than it costs. A Fi-
deal for your circumstances.
nancial Adviser can ensure you are
(Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up
making the most of your finances
repayments on your mortgage.
as you may not have the expertise,
A fee of a minimum of £250 or 0.5% of the loan amount, if
time or desire to actively plan and
greater, is payable on application. Typically this will be £250.)
manage certain financial aspects of
2.2. Maximise your ISA allowance. If you don’t already have an ISA (In-
your life. You may want help getting
dividual Savings Account), get started. Did you know that you can put
started or benefit from an objec-
up to £11,520 per year tax free into an investment ISA? Consider
tive, third party perspective.”
topping up your ISA or start one before April 2014.
FINANCIAL REVIEWS ARE ESSENTIAL
3.3. Inheritance Tax Planning. This can be considered from two angles.
The inheritance you might be due from your own parents and what
“A financial review is the first step
you are going to pass to your children. There is no inheritance tax
in planning for a secure future. This
due between a husband and wife and each can have an allowance
is something many people put off
of £325k. However this changes when passing on to your children.
which can end up being detrimental
It is vital to consider the implications around inheritance tax and
to their family in the long run. No
get a plan in place as soon as possible. (HM Revenue and Customs
one likes to consider the worst but
practice and the law relating to taxation are complex and subject to
unfortunately what the future holds is unknown to all of us. If you can
individual circumstances and changes which cannot be foreseen.) 4.4. Pension Planning. The earlier you start the easier it will be, don’t
proactively take control of what is
put pension planning off. If you save a smaller amount of money
at your disposal to safeguard what
regularly for longer, you may be better off than saving a bigger sum
you can, the future will be brighter
over a shorter period of time. Talk to us soon about putting a plan in
and more secure.”
place to provide for you and your family in the future.”
“This is literally skimming the surface of what we can talk to you about. To make a start on your financial planning Bloom has got together with T Nixon Associates to offer its readers a free mortgage review worth up to £250. Simply email patricia@tn-associates.co.uk or phone 028 9073 8550 to set up an appointment before 31 January 2014 and let us help you to make this the year to secure your financial future.” 36
bloommagazine.co.uk
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SNAP HAPPY
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS and ADVICE C
M
Y
CM
MY
We’re delighted to introduce our new regular feature on photography. Today’s technology makes it CY easier to take & share photos. Our photography expert, Andrew Foster, is on hand to make sure that you get the most out of your photo opportunities, and create memories that will last forever. CMY Andrew has always been a keen
we currently live in the most poorly
jet printers can produce.
photographer, and has worked as a
documented period of history.
“Memories of all our special times
photo-technician at Dundela Photo
“Digital images are not failsafe;
are too important to risk losing
Lab for over 25 years. Although his
memory cards can get corrupted,
them. I’d advise everyone to get
roots are very much in traditional
hard drives can crash, and phones
their photos printed so that we and
Developing & Printing, Andrew’s
and laptops can be lost; as far as the
our loved ones can treasure them
kept up to date with technological
cloud is concerned, who knows?!
for years to come. At Dundela we
advances – what he doesn’t know
The only truly permanent way to
always say “to keep it, print it!””
about photography (both film &
keep an image is in print, but not
Dundela Photo Lab is in-house at
digital) isn’t worth knowing.
just any print. Printing at home can
Dundela Pharmacy, 17-19 Belmont
This month, Andrew told us: “With
be fun and may seem convenient,
Road, BT4 2AA. Print prices start
phones, iPads, and the convenience
but it works out ridiculously
from as low as 10p each for 6”x4”
of digital cameras, people are taking
expensive, and even the best
prints on the 24 hour service – a
more and more photos, but they are ink-jet prints will fade over time,
fast service is also available.
getting fewer and fewer printed. I’ve
Andrew will be back next month
particularly when exposed to light.
got a real concern about the current At Dundela Photo Lab we produce
with more handy photography hints
generation of children growing up
proper photographs using a wet
but if you need any tips or advice
with no photographic records of
chemical process – they will never
in the meantime, just pop into the
their most important moments. In
fade and with 400dpi have 30%
Dundela Photo Lab on the Belmont
fact New Scientist recently reported more detail than even the best ink38 bloommagazine.co.uk
Road and ask Andrew.
K
Terra Firma Tile & Bath Ltd
A local, family run tile and bathroom showroom
Full design & installation service available PROMOTIONS AVAILABLE TO SUIT ALL BUDGETS
SALE NOW ON MUST END 31ST JANUARY
Telephone: 02890 403000 74 Grand Parade, Belfast BT5 5HH
Email: info@TerraFirmaNI.co.uk Web: www.TerraFirmaNI.co.uk
VISION PROPERTY