Spotlight Magazine for West Bridgford, Nottingham January 2018 by david clark

spotlightOn ISSUE 105 January 2018

West Bridgford

Local News and Trusted Traders In Our Area

Treat yourself to a beautiful new look kitchen for less.... BY JUST REPLACING THE DOORS! • Save Money • Save Time • Save Hassle

Is your kitchen tired or worn-out? If you’re looking for a new look or an update then Quality Replacement Doors Nottingham can help.

Call today for a FREE No Obligation Quotation on

0115 736 5994

Choose from a wide range of styles and colours to suit any home.

www.qualitykitchendoorsnottingham.co.uk

The ONLY Directory of local businesses you need Delivered to 6,000 Homes and Businesses each month in West Bridgford, Edwalton and Lady Bay

WEWAD New Look AW_OPT2_HR.pdf

13/12/2017

19:35

Fit Not Thin In 2018 Many people will make a resolution to lose weight in 2018. To be fair lots of us made the same resolution on January 1st 2017...and 2016... What if we’re looking at it all wrong? What if a better resolution was to get fit in 2018? Fit not thin. I’m not saying you shouldn’t aim to lose weight. If your knees buckle when you try to stand up and you have a family history of cardiovascular disease maybe you should.

focussed on being less. That was the main difference for me.” Personally I think that if society paid more attention to fitness rather than weight loss, we’d actually have less obesity. If we (especially women) focussed on how far we could run or cycle, or how many push-ups we can do, we would naturally be more active and less obese because focussing on fitness actually makes weight loss easier.

But maybe that family history of cardiovascular disease should prompt you to think more strategically. Obesity is linked to cardiovascular disease but that’s not the whole story. Lack of fitness also plays a role. Tackle the fitness and a side effect may be that you also tackle the obesity. And seriously, getting fit is way more fun than dieting. A friend once told me about the shift in her mindset when she decided to focus on fit not thin. “As I got fitter I became more than I was before. Whenever I’d tried to lose weight in the past I’d

The fitter you get the more you view food as fuel and the more you want to eat high quality nutritious food because it helps you get fitter. It’s positive reinforcement. And let’s be honest, society is horribly biased against fat people. But if fitness was the Holy Grail we wouldn’t automatically assume that not-thin equates to not-healthy. We need to stop being obsessed with weight-loss and thinness.

If we get involved in more conversations about fitness rather than how to lose extra pounds, our fat-bias would diminish and maybe more overweight people would feel comfortable joining the gym or that exercise class they always fancied. Both fat and thin people would be healthier if they aimed for fitness rather than thinness. Even if overweight people stay overweight weight, they still get all the protective benefits of exercise. And there are many thin people who are terribly unfit and are at risk of cardiovascular disease. Thin does not always or even often equate to healthy, in spite of popular myth. It’s not an either-or situation but if you only aim to end 2018 thinner you might succeed, you might not, but you’ll still be unfit. If you aim for fitness you will probably lose weight, gain confidence, friends, a new skill or two, and in the words of my friend be more than you were by the end of the year. I know which route I’m going to take.

IIndependent ndependent S SpecIalISt pecIalISt • Established 30 years • Courtesy Car Available • Collection Service (within 5 miles) • Branches throughout the Midlands • Service, Repair, Diagnostic and M.O.T. • ECU Remapping • Up to 50% savings against main dealers. • Friendly and professional service

SALE NOW ON SAVE £££££££

Drives & Patios BLOCK PAVING PATIO SLABS TARMACADERM BRICKWORK TURFING

FENCING RESIN BOUND GRAVELLING CLEANING LANDSCAPING

10% off all orders placed this month only! • Highly experienced staff

• All work guaranteed

• No deposit required – payment on completion of work

• 14 day cooling off period • Free estimates

Free no-obligation quotation, onsite survey and design on request

Freephone: 0800 747 1511 Or Call 0115 871 8327 www.carltondriveandpatios.co.uk | info@carltondrivesandpatios.co.uk 4

A Good Read And she daren’t try too hard, because Mam doesn’t like any reminders that Gwenni might not be the same as everyone else. Set in rural Wales in the 1950s, Strachan’s debut novel follows Gwenni as the disappearance of a local man begins a chain of events, which reveal some of the secrets that lie under the surface of everyday life. The novel works in a number of ways. On the one hand, it is at times a darkly comic portrayal of small town Wales. On the other, it is a story about families, their secrets and the after effects of war.

The Earth Hums in B Flat – Mari Strachan Gwenni Morgan is twelve, and every night she flies in her sleep – over the town and the countryside around, looking down on familiar and not so familiar scenes. She thinks she remembers flying while awake as a small child, but somehow she has lost the ability to do so, no matter how hard she tries.

What holds these strands together is Gwenni herself as narrator, who sees more than she understands, and whose innocence is captured perfectly in Strachan’s often understated prose style. The supporting characters are equally well drawn – from highly strung Mam, to kind, patient Tada, from the mysterious Aunty Lol, to Alwenna, Gwenni’s best friend, old beyond her years and ‘with no shame!’

Let us transform the quality of your lawn! From as little as £6! * * when paying by Direct Debit

Our specially tailored treatment programme will ensure your lawn is in excellent condition all year round Weed Free

Lush Green

Moss Controlled

FREE Lawn Analysis Call: 01509 503439

Although the solution to the main mystery of the story is clear to the reader from the outset, Strachan holds back just enough to keep us guessing at the other strands which she brings together for the conclusion – I guarantee she will keep you reading until the end.

No two versions are ever the same, as each child brings to the book their own language and rhythms.

Clown – Quentin Blake

An absolutely marvellous book, which every child should read – and which every adult will enjoy too.

Can you tell a story without words? Well, Quentin Blake can, and in Clown he does. The book consists entirely of illustrations, in Blake’s well loved and instantly recognisable style.

Clown himself is wonderfully expressive, and the pictures are enough to have you laughing out loud in several places.

Our hero, Clown, finds himself thrown into the dustbin, along with a number of other toys. He escapes, dusts himself off, and sets out to find someone who can help him to rescue his friends. Along the way he finds himself in a fancy dress competition, entertaining a rather fierce looking dog, and possibly finding himself a home – all without words. The beauty of the story is that while Blake’s illustrations carry the narrative forward, the reader can choose their own way of telling it.

Focus Blinds... Focus On Focus on ••great great quality quality Focus Blinds... ••aﬀ ordable prices affordable prices ••excellent customer Focus andon excellent customer service service

• great quality Roller, Vertical, Venetian, Wooden, Perfect • affordable prices • and excellent customer service Roller, Vertical, Venetian, Wooden, Perfect fit.

Roller, Vertical, Venetian, Wooden, Perfect Fit

fit.

FREEPHONE 0808 100 1413 or visit us at: www.greensleeves-uk.com

nottingham_east_94_64.indd 1

13/02/2017 13:08

Local family run window blind supplier To choose your new blinds from the comfort of your own home. Call 07539 742589 or 01159 441776 or email Adam:- a.dewsbury@sky.com Local family run window blind supplier. To choose your new blinds from the comfort

Forget Brain-Training, Learn an Instrument We are told we need to keep our brains active as we age, to help stave off cognitive decline and the risk of dementia. A whole industry has grown up around this, and we are urged to buy the latest brain-training apps and books. Yet research has thrown doubt on a lot of the hype surrounding these, with many now dismissed as useless gimmicks. But there is robust scientific evidence which shows that learning to play a musical instrument is not just beneficial to children: adults benefit too and it may even be helpful to patients recovering from brain injuries. Playing a musical instrument is a rich and complex experience that involves integrating information from the senses of vision, hearing, and touch, as well as fine movements. Musical training can induce longlasting changes in the brain. Professional musicians are highly skilled individuals who spend years training, so they provide a natural laboratory in which neuroscientists

can study how such changes – called experience-dependent plasticity – occur across their lifespan.

professional musicians usually outperform non-musicians in these areas.

Early brain scanning studies revealed significant differences in brain structure between musicians and non-musicians of the same age.

More recently, it has become clear that musical training facilitates the rehabilitation of patients recovering from stroke and other forms of brain damage.

For example, the corpus callosum, a massive bundle of nerve fibres connecting the two sides of the brain, is significantly larger in musicians, and the brain areas involved in movement, hearing, and visuo-spatial abilities also appear to be larger. Longitudinal studies (which track people over time) have shown that young children who undertake 14 months musical training exhibit significant structural and functional brain changes compared to those who do not. Learning to play a musical instrument not only increases grey matter volume in various brain regions, but also strengthens the long-range connections between those regions. Other research shows that musical training enhances verbal memory, spatial reasoning, and literacy skills:

Learning to play an instrument strengthens the brain in a way that nothing else does, so put down the Sudoku and pick up your ukulele. You know it makes sense.

It also seems to have a protective effect against the onset of dementia. One problem with commercial brain training products is that they only improve performance on the skills involved. Musical training on the other hand has what psychologists refer to as transfer effects. In other words, learning to play a musical instrument seems to have a far broader effect on the brain and mental function, and improves other abilities that are seemingly unrelated, such as working memory and language.

in s a EE & b R m F ilet o o to thr a i rg y ba r o Ge n an orde o

Difficulty Bathing - we can help

Wet rooms •Wet Walk in showers (low level & level access) • Walk•inSlip baths • Products & installation rooms • Walk in showers • Walk in baths resistant safety flooring guarantee Bathing a problem? we can help Waterproof wall panellingGrab • Slip rails, resistant safetyseats flooring • Grab toilets rails, shower seats & raised toilets • Local family business shower & raised • Local family business

Wet rooms • Walk we in showers Walk in baths safety ﬂooring design • •we supply • we fit• Slip • weresistant care • Established family business Grab rails, shower seats & raised toilets “Discounts for over 60’s, SSAFA and Ex Service personnel”

we design • we supply • we ﬁt • we care Call now to 60’s, arrange a and FREE surveyPersonnel” and quote “Discounts for over SSAFA Ex Service

01522 500288 Call now to arrange a FREE survey and quote

01522 936 500288 0115 1804

Visit Our Showroom: Downtown, Tritton Rd, Lincoln, LN6 7TN

0115 936 1804www.ahminstallations.co.uk info@ahminstallations.co.uk

6 Untitled-2 1

09/03/2011 15:14

info@ahminstallations.co.uk www.ahminstallations.co.uk

A Dose Of Sunshine Scientists are coming to the conclusion that we are more prone to colds and flu in the winter due to low levels of the “sunshine vitamin”, vitamin D, rather than colder weather, central heating, etc.

pregnant, breastfeeding women and anyone over 65 years old are advised to take a 10mcg supplement, and babies from 6 months 7mcg. Ask at your local NHS clinic about Healthy Start drops.

Vitamin D regulates the immune system, preventing infections and inflammations due to autoimmune conditions.

Vitamin D is best known for its role in calcium metabolism. Back in the mid 1880’s cod liver oil was recognised as a cure for the childhood bone disease rickets, however, not until 1921 did scientists realise that vitamin D was the component that cured the rickets.

Most of our Vitamin D is formed under the skin in reaction to sunlight, but of course we must remember to limit our exposure in order not to burn. It is found only in a small number of foods, mainly oily fish (herring, salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines and cod liver oil), cheese and egg yolks. Margarine, breakfast cereals and powdered milk are often fortified. It is also important to consume raw green leafy vegetables and a handful of nuts and seeds daily, to provide the minerals that support vitamin D absorption. Vitamin D deficiency is a real possibility these days due to low light levels, less time spent outdoors and an excessive use of sunscreens during the summer. Ideally, 15-20 minutes of sun exposure (depending on skin type) between 10am & 3pm twice a week, is recommended during the summer and longer during winter. You may need to take supplements if you work long hours indoors. Take care though, because you can over-dose on this vitamin as it is fat soluble, but scientists believe the recommended levels, 400 international units (IUs) or 10 micrograms (mcg), are too low and 1000 IUs or 25 mcg may be necessary to prevent disease.

The encouraging thing about recent studies is the increasing list of chronic conditions that may be implicated in vitamin D deficiency such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, mental illness, multiple sclerosis, muscle weakness, osteoarthritis and some types of cancer. The Vitamin D Council has urged doctors to test the vitamin D levels of patients suffering the above conditions and treat with sunlight and supplementation. In the last century, tuberculosis patients were prescribed sunshine. Are Mediterranean people so healthy due to diet alone, or the extra sunshine they receive?

Who We Help 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

What We Do

Owners Tenants Landlords Property Managers Estate Agents Offices Bars/Restaurants

3 3 3 3 3 3

Electrical Plumbing Decorating Assembly Gardens Everything Else!

Call us now on 0115 8226176 PROTECT YOUR ASSETS FOR LOVED ONES Make A Will For a free expert consultation in the privacy of your own home telephone David Dexter FCA on

01522 789903

or visit www.LincolnWills.com

More research is needed, but in the meantime we can begin to make any necessary changes to ensure a happy, healthy New Year! Sue Blain

Others, like Heaney & Holick, recommend 3,000 IUs depending on a person’s bodyweight. In the UK,

BRAND NEW STAIRLIFTS BRAND NEW & INSTALLED 2 Years Parts & Labour Warranty BEST PRICES AND SERVICE IN NOTTINGHAM

Stairlift Nottingham 0115 736 5990 www.stairliftnottingham.co.uk

This space could be yours for as little as

£39.00

per month / magazine reaching over 38,000 homes every month in Nottinghamshire

Garden View Sniff! Sniff! No I don’t have a cold but this month I will be sniffing a lot. Mainly because of my winter-flowering shrubs. There’s something especially valuable about shrubs that flower in winter’s short and often dreary days. Seeing these delightful and resilient flowers taking frost, rain and snow in their stride lifts our spirits. Many are fragrant and can be cut for indoor winter posies. Every garden should have a couple of plants which bravely open their petals while winter is doing its worst. Viburnum farreri or Viburnum x bodnantense ‘Dawn’ or ‘Deben’ are upright shrubs which bear pretty clusters of pink-buds on their bare branches, that open into honeyscented white flowers. They are incredibly tough, withstanding all but the harshest of frost. It’s lovely to cut a few sprigs to stand in a jam jar indoors.

It’s a delightful shuttlecock-shaped bush that explodes with citrus-scented spidery flowers right about now. I have the orange ‘Jelena’ in my garden but the pale yellow ‘Pallida’ and the deep red ‘Ruby Glow’ are equally lovely.

I have two in pots on either side of my path for several years. I’ve had people stop in their tracks and return back towards the house sniffing, in search of the source of the amazing sweet, heady scent.

And don’t forget that there are scented snowdrops and tiny Iris reticulata which are deliciously perfumed too. Time to get sniffing. Happy gardening.

My dad had a wonderful winterflowering honeysuckle in his garden: Lonicera fragrantissima, which I adored. A few years ago I discovered Lonicera x purpussi and fell in love. It has creamy white flowers and a really strong scent. Even if you have a tiny garden you’ll have room for a Christmas Box Sarcococca confusa. It produces white whiskery flowers from among its dark shiny evergreen foliage.

My favourite winter flowering shrub is the witch hazel plant Hamamelis mollis.

- 100’s of designs - Free design & quote - 10 year guarantee - Family business over 20 yrs - Honest pricing policy - All made in-house - Fit within 3 weeks of order - Installation within 1 day Book your free design visit now

01623 703 989 wardrobesonline.co.uk

Sliding Door Wardrobes & Bedroom Furniture 8

Factory showroom: Southglade Business Park, off Hucknall Road, Nottingham NG5 9RA

Have you made healthier eating a part of your New Year plan? If so you should definitely try this healthy, hearty breakfast. A friend introduced me to overnight oats and I have to say I’m hooked. First, it’s the easiest breakfast ever. There’s nothing to cook; you make it the night before in under 5 minutes, and when you wake up, it’s there waiting. All you have to do is eat it!

Overnight Oats

Oats help to reduce cholesterol and are a whole, unprocessed source of carbohydrates, which release energy slowly so are a great start to the day. Basic Overnight Oats Ingredients 1/2 cup dry oats (the actual cup size doesn’t really matter. It’s about proportions…just use a bigger cup if you have a bigger appetite)

1 cup of unsweetened milk (I like almond milk but cows’ milk, soya milk,

The basic recipe is very adaptable; you can do so many different things with it. Making breakfast during a hurried morning just doesn’t make sense. And while there are lots of make-ahead breakfast options, none of them are quite as easy and stress-free as overnight oats. This dish takes just minutes to prep, a handful of ingredients are mixed together and stored in a jar, and the oats “make” themselves with an overnight rest in the fridge. I tend to eat mine cold but if you like things hot, heat them up in the microwave

plain yoghurt or a mix of yoghurt and milk is all good) Fruit of choice (fresh, frozen or even tinned) 1 tbsp chia seeds or flax seeds (optional but good for healthy omega 3 fats) Nuts (optional)

Method 1. Combine everything into an airtight bowl or jar (I leave nuts out as I like them crunchy) 2. Leave in the fridge overnight 3. Eat in the morning! You can heat them if you like. Variations: Fruit: apples, banana, nectarines, blueberries, strawberries, figs, redcurrants (most fruits taste great). Flavourings: flaked or desiccated coconut, ground almonds. Sweeteners: If you have a sweet tooth you can add maple syrup, honey or jam. My kids experimented with chocolate milk too – lovely with bananas. Healthy fats: flax, nuts, nut butters Toppings to add in the morning: granola, nuts, raisins, sour cherries, additional fruit, chocolate chunks

Cutting - Colourist Hair Extensions PROFESSIONAL HAIR EXTENSIONS CUTTING AND COLOURING IN NOTTINGHAM CREATES STYLES WITH CARE AND PASSION LgHairdressing provides hair extensions, cutting and creative colouring to fit everyones needs.

Bailey Strang

PC Servicing/virus removal from £44 Full PC Setup and Install from £99 New PCs/Laptops from £299 100% customer satisfaction

Buy With Confidence Trading Standards Approved

Tel: 01949 876 098 Tel: 07887 633 121

instagram @hairwithbailey

07850 497 084 67 Boundary Road West Bridgford NG2 7DB

sales@midlanddatanetworks.co.uk www.midlanddatanetworks.co.uk

RNLI SOS Fundraising for coastal safety Last year while holidaying near Salcombe I witnessed real-life lifeboat rescue. I was humbled by the professionalism of the crew and realised that living inland I had never really thought about lifeboats before. Afterwards I spoke to a crew member. He told me that countrywide on average there are 24 call-outs per day so there is a good chance that while you are reading this a lifeboat crew is in action somewhere on our coast.

of air in watertight bulkheads, used cork and other lightweight materials in the structure, and included a false iron keel for additional weight to help keep the boat upright. In 1786 Lukin was commissioned to convert a coble - a type of fishing boat - into an ‘unimmergible’ lifeboat for Bamburgh. The result was the first known ‘lifeboat’, and Bamburgh Castle thus became the first lifeboat station. In 1789 a ship named Adventure ran aground at the mouth of The River Tyne during a violent storm. The sea

was too rough for the local men and their boats, so people had to stand by helplessly as Adventure’s crew drowned. South Shield’s private Law House committee launched a lifeboat design competition with a reward of 2 guineas (around £2.10) for the best design. A parish clerk called William Wouldhave and a boat-builder called Henry Francis Greathead both entered. Wouldhave’s design was for a boat

British and Irish coastal waters can be treacherous. During the 18th century around 1,800 ships were wrecked around the coasts of Britain and Ireland – everyone who put to sea accepted the risk and assumed there was little anybody could do to save lives.

made out of copper and cork that would right itself in stormy seas. Greathead’s model was built out of wood and was an excellent design, though it didn’t self-right. As neither design was an outright winner the committee blended ideas from both to produce a final lifeboat design. The entrants were offered half the prize money each. William Wouldhave took offence and rejected the offer. So Henry Greathead was asked to build the lifeboat from the final design and went on to become known as the inventor of the first lifeboat. It was called The Original, measured 9m by 3m (around 29 feet by 10 feet) and could carry 20 people including a crew of 12.

A London coachbuilder, Lionel Lukin, paved the way for the first purposebuilt lifeboat when he designed the world’s first unsinkable boat in 1785.

Henry Greathead went on to build 31 Original type lifeboats over the next 2 decades for communities around the British coasts, and also abroad.

Lukin wanted to improve boat-safety and experimented with a Norwegian yawl (a sailing dinghy) on the River Thames. Lukin incorporated pockets

He never took out a patent on his invention, preferring to share his plans for the good of others and lifesaving at sea.

Local specialists inand sales and Local specialists sales ser vicing of ser Local specialists ininsales and ser vicing ofvicing of mobility products including power chairs, mobility products including power chairs, mobility products including power chairs, scooters, stairlifts, beds and R&R chairs scooters, stairlifts, beds and R&R chairs scooters, stairlifts, beds and R&R chairs We pride ourselves

on ourselves selling quality We pride We pride ourselves products with a service on selling quality that is second to none. on selling quality products with a service With engineers that products with a service that is second to none. are is trained to the to none. that second highest standards With engineers that you’ll be assured you’re are trained to the hands that With in theengineers safest highest standards are trained to the P h o n e f o r yyou’re our you’llhighest be assured F R E E bhands rstandards ochure or in the safest

FREE brochure or fo d e m oPnhso t rnaet i o nr your

FREE brochure or d e m oAvenue nstration 26 Patchwork Row 1 Rufford Freefone Forest Road 26 Patchwork Row Shirebrook NG20 8AL New Ollerton NG22 9PN Freefone 0800 0286619 New Ollerton NG22 9PL 0800 0286619 Shirebrook, NG20 8AL Tel: 01623 742720 TEL: 01623 862839 E: royalemobility@live.co.uk Tel: 01623 862839 Mail: royalemobility@live.co.uk Tel: 01623 742720 Freefone 26 Patchwork Row Windows • Doors • Conservatories • Double Glazing 0800 0286619 Shirebrook, NG20 8AL

0115 736 5997

Tel: 01623 862839 Mail: royalemobility@live.co.uk Tel: 01623 742720 Forest Road Freefone 26 Patchwork Row New Ollerton NG22 9PL 0800 0286619 Shirebrook, NG20 8AL

Tel: 01623 862839

0115 736 5990 A complete and reliable plastering service

you’ll you’re d e m obe n s t rassured ation P h o nin e fthe or y o u r hands safest

Forest Road New Ollerton NG22 9PL

Quality Plastering Nottingham

Mail: royalemobility@live.co.uk

New Composite Doors Tel: 01623 742720

OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE • Walls & Ceilings • Internal & External • Skimming & Re-Skimming • Plaster Boarding • Stud Walls • Rendering • Coving • Industrial • Commercial • Domestic Call Today - Quotations and Sensible Advice are Always Free!

Approved Locks and Handles Multiple Colours

Call For Details

0115 736 5997

qualityplasteringnottingham@gmail.com www.qualityplasteringnottingham.co.uk

Big Garden Birdwatch

The Big Garden Birdwatch is world’s largest garden wildlife survey, and 2018 will mark its 39th year. It is run by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and will take place on 27th , 28th and 29th January 2018. All we have to do is spend just one hour watching and recording the birds in our garden or a local green space. Then we send our results to the RSPB. Close to half-a- million people joined in last year counting more than eight million birds and providing valuable information about the wildlife using our gardens in winter. We’re all familiar with the sight of bluetits on a bird feeder or a cheery robin hunting for grubs but it might come as a shock to know that some of our most-loved species are in desperate need of our help because their numbers have dropped dramatically. Species such as starlings and greenfinches have seen their numbers decline by 79 and 59 per cent respectively since the first Birdwatch in 1979. 40 years worth of data allows the RSPB to monitor trends and helps us understand how birds are faring, and what potential issues they might be facing. With results from so many gardens, they are able to create a snapshot of the visiting birds at this time of year across the UK. So even if you see nothing at all during your Big Garden Birdwatch hour, that’s important information too! The RSPB also asks participants to log some of the other wildlife they have seen throughout the year.

In 2018 people are being asked to look out for badgers, foxes, grey squirrels, red squirrels, muntjac deer, roe deer, frogs and toads. To take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch 2018, participants should watch the birds in the garden or local park for one hour at some point over the three allocated days. Only the birds that land in the garden or local park should be counted, don’t count those just flying over. There is also a parallel event; Big Schools’ Birdwatch takes place which takes place during the period 2nd January-23rd February 2018. Further information about this can be found at www.rspb.org.uk/schoolswatch Both the Big Garden Birdwatch and the Big Schools’ Birdwatch are part of the RSPB Giving Nature a Home campaign. This is aimed at tackling the habitatcrisis facing the UK’s wildlife. The charity is asking people to provide a place for wildlife in their gardens or outdoor spaces. This could involve putting up a nest box for birds, creating a pond for frogs, or building a home for hedgehogs.

World Braille Day

World Braille Day January 4th Louis Braille was born in France on January 4th, 1809. When he was three he lost the sight in one eye due to an accident. Unfortunately the damaged eye became infected and this spread to the other eye, leaving him without sight. Louis worked hard to master his disability and despite being unable to see he excelled in his education and received a scholarship to France’s Royal Institute for Blind Youth. During his studies he was inspired by the military cryptography of Charles Barbier of the French Army. As a result of this Louis developed a system of tactile code that allowed the blind to read and write as efficiently as their sighted counterparts. Braille presented the results of his hard work to his peers when he was just fifteen years old in 1824. Five years later he published his first book about the system he had created, called “Method of Writing Words, Music, and Plain Songs by

Means of Dots, for Use by the Blind and Arranged for Them”. The Braille system works by representing the alphabet letters (and numbers) in a series of 6 dots paired up in 3 rows. Braille is read by moving the hand or hands from left to right along each line. Both hands are usually involved in the reading process, and reading is generally done with the index fingers. The average reading speed is about 125 words per minute, but greater speeds of up to 200 words per minute are possible. The idea was simple, yet genius and allowed books to be produced on a large scale in a format that thousands of blind people could read by running their fingertips over the dots. It is thanks to Louis Braille that blind students have the opportunity to be educated and work alongside their sighted peers, as well as read for pleasure just as easily as any seeing person can. By Sarah Davey

There is a free Big Garden Birdwatch pack, which includes a bird identification chart, plus advice to help you attract wildlife to your garden. Text BIRD to 70030 or visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch. Registration opens on 13th December 2017. By Tom Hancock

Single Use Plastics Council is aiming to lead by example on reducing single use plastic Rushcliffe Borough Council will aim to lead by example to local businesses and residents by reviewing single use plastic usage across its services. As such products become ever more into the spotlight through documentaries such as BBC One’s Blue Planet II, a Full Council Meeting on Thursday (December 7) saw councillors unanimously support a motion to review where their impact could be lessened during its activities. This could include a review of what single use plastics and packaging are used by its service areas and contractors or consider publicising advice and information to residents, businesses and parish and town councils on avoidance of use of the items. The Leader of the Council Cllr Simon Robinson said: “All the councillors were in agreement with this motion in response to growing global concerns.

“We want to be an environmentally friendly authority and talk must lead to action. Together we are committed to making a positive difference to the environment in Rushcliffe and we also need our partners to come on board with this.” Thanking Councillor Sue Mallender for proposing the original motion, Cllr Robinson also confirmed the motion would see the Council consider the mechanisms to ban the use of Chinese lanterns and helium balloons on council land and open spaces. Increasing harm to farmers’ livestock, wildlife and the local environment was cited for the review to curb the items in their public areas. The Council’s Community Development Group scrutiny work programme will now consider developing an action plan as part of their focus in 2018 with any key recommendations presented for consideration by Cabinet.

Edwalton School Pigs Sty-lish sustainability for school pigs thanks to a Community Support Scheme Children at a school farm have welcomed new pigs to sty-lish surroundings thanks to Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Community Support Scheme and Arch Communications. Pupils, staff and governors at Edwalton Primary School were delighted when the authority match funded the PR firm’s kind donation so they could build a new pig pen and introduce two kunekune pigs as part of their on-site farm last week. The September born pigs, who are yet to be named, were met by Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council Cllr Simon Robinson, Arch Communications founder Matt Youdale, headteacher Anthony Thomas, the pupils and school governor and ‘Queen of Green’ Penney Poyzer. Cllr Robinson said: “This is a great example of our Community Support Scheme assisting a project that has huge benefits for the hundreds of children at the school and we thank Arch Communications for jointly funding part of this wonderful farm. “Edwalton Primary is a leading local example to other schools and organisations on being eco-friendly and we hope the pupils enjoy learning more about the pigs and how livestock plays such a huge part of our environment.” The hairy kunekune is the smallest domesticated breed of pig in the world and a favourite among pet pig owners due to its placid friendly nature.

The pigs will not be slaughtered for meat and will hopefully live up to the age of twelve.Kunekune pigs The funding has also enabled the school to build three additional raised beds and buy strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and four apple trees to fill them. Arch Communications founder Matt Youdale added: “The school farm is a fantastic project and it’s just wonderful to see animals in a school environment and watch the children interacting with them. “It’s such a great facility and one we are proud to be a part of helping to develop and flourish.” The Community Support Scheme sees ward councillors work with potential recipients to apply for grant funding of up to £1,000 annually in each of their wards for projects, facilities, events, activities or investment in community infrastructure that have a positive impact on the local community. Groups or individuals keen to learn more should contact their local ward councillor, with details available at www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/councillors to discuss potential applications to the scheme.

Quality Canopies, Carports Verandas & Awnings Here’s how it works: • Give us a Call for a Quick Quote • We’ll Arrange a Site Survey • We’ll Show You Product Samples • If You’re Happy, Place Your Order • Our Experienced Team will Install • You’ll receive After Sales Pack & Care

From enquiry to installation, it couldn’t be easier…

Tel: 07970 548 841

info@resindrivewayinstallers.co.uk

Burns Night Robert Burns was a Scottish bard, born in 1759 who wrote many poems and lyrics during his life. His most famous work is probably Auld Lang Syne, sang at New Year and which translates as ‘times long past’.

animal) which are minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, stock and salt, then encased in the animal’s stomach - though artificial casings are more commonly used now.

Burns is one of Scotland’s most important cultural icons as many of his works addressed the political and civil issues of the time. Robert Burns’ friends and acquaintances held the first Burns supper on July 21, the anniversary of his death, in the late 1700s. This date was later changed to January 25th, which marks his birthday. Burns suppers gradually became a tradition and are now held by people and organizations with Scottish origins worldwide. At Burns Night events, many men and women wear kilts or other clothes made from their family tartan. At the centre of the supper is the haggis, which brought to the table to the tune of bagpipes.

It can be baked or boiled and although it sounds quite revolting is surprisingly delicious, at least to this author! It’s served with a whisky sauce and some neeps and tatties - a mixture of swede and potato which works beautifully with the rough, oaty haggis. Cranachan is the traditional desert of cream, raspberries and oatmeal. It should all be washed down with a good whisky. Have a great Burns night. Gun cuireadh do chupa thairis le slainte agus sonas. (Translation: May your cup overflow with health and happiness)

5000

DOUBLE SIDED LEAFLETS Dukeries Leisure Centre Swimming lessons

available at South Forest Complex, Edwinstowe E lesson FRE

• • • •

Business Cards Letterheads Compliment Slips Free Graphic Design

Can be distributed with the Spotlight Magazines for only £25 per 1000

In the Western World Epiphany marks the 12th day of Christmas, and falls on January 6th.

According to the Gospel of Matthew, they found the baby by following a star across the desert to Bethlehem.

The six Sundays which follow Epiphany are known as ‘the time of manifestation’ and Epiphany marks the official end to the festive season for many Christians.

The three men - named in the Bible as Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar offered symbolic gifts of gold, frankincense and myrr.

Traditionally it was a Christian feast day and was a celebration of the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist, as well as a more general celebration of his birth. Epiphany is also known as the Twelfth Night, and marks a visit to the baby Jesus by three Magi. They were most likely learned students of the stars, hence their alternative name The Wise Men, but they are also associated with royalty so are also known as The Three Kings.

The gold represented his royal standing; frankincense his divine birth; and myrrh his mortality. During the medieval period, Christmas was celebrated for the 12 days from Christmas Eve on December 24, until the Epiphany. Even up until the 19th century, January 6 was as big a celebration as Christmas Day. By Tracey Anderson

The word ‘Epiphany’ actually derives from Greek and means ‘to show’, referring to Jesus being revealed to the world. In the West, Christians began celebrating the Epiphany in the 4th century, associating it with the visit of The Wise Men to Jesus.

For the uninitiated haggis is a savoury pudding containing ‘sheep’s pluck’ (the heart, liver, and lungs of the

Other Sizes and Quantities Available

Epiphany

First s that cover the 30 minute lesson amme STA lesson progr ess with s progr Follow your child’ l ‘Oncourse’ our online porta icates included Badges and certif

Put the freshnes s back in to your home

Cleaner, brig healthier carpet hter, fresher s and

upholstery I’m Totally Dedic ated to giving you the Best Ever Carp Upholstery Clea et, ning and Stain Prot ection Services

we cle

an We Classes available throughout theApply Carpets We Remove Stain Protectors Leath week for all ages er Sofa and abilities from s s &XU LU Stain Dust Mite Killers Goo Spot RYs FOR Oriental Rugs dChew kitchen baby and pre-school ing to adults LESS desGum importa ign is Upho lstery Hard Floors

Dust Mites

not just space in nt part of your an option, project. a way that To maximis it is the mos improve deliver t e the avai s eﬃ a room lable that is the ciency, and at the sam focal poin Kitchen e time t of you s • Bedroo r home”. ms • Bat Kitchen hrooms • Home We pass design and insta the savi llation expe Oﬃces ngs on rts. No expe to you. Call nsiv for your Fitted Kit free des e showrooms. ign and chen De quotatio www.fittedk sign 011 n. itchendes 57 365 86 ign.co.uk 6 | info@ fittedkitche ndesign.c o.uk

Call Dukeries Leisure Centre on 01623 www862469 .Carpetdevil.com @active4today 07951 149335 TalkFitness

www.active4today.co.uk

only

£119.00 including delivery

Call 0115 822 4995 for more information

THE CAVE at THE BRIT & THE BOAT CLUB TRENTSIDE

Ideal for Private Parties Riverside Location • Large Balcony • Ample Parking Refurbished Throughout • Contemporary Style • Well-Stocked Bar • Ideal For Private Parties Stage for Disco’s and Bands

• Riverside Location 0115 9811251 07775 876964 claire.ceas@hotmail.co.uk • Refurbished Throughout • Contemporary Style • Well Stocked Bar • Stage For Disco’s and Bands

For more details and bookings please call or email -

0115 9811251 or 07775 876964 claire.ceas@hotmail.co.uk

Puzzle Page Quick Crossword

Crossword Clues Across 6 Trailblazer, trendsetter (7) 7 Sacked, given P45 (5) 9 Wooden shoe (4) 10 Measuring rod, inept person (8) 11 Belongs to a club (6) 13 Jab, prod (4) 15 Cat (informal) (4) 16 Glace, sour, Morello (6) 18 Valve in the loo cistern (8) 21 Did not tell the truth (4) 22 Oozy goo! (5) 23 High military rank (7)

Down 1 Undulating landscape (5) 2 Chortle, titter (8) 3 Imprisoned, incarcerated (4) 4 Perfect, spanking-new (4) 5 Toasted fruit-bun (7) 8 Thinly dispersed (6) 12 Call forward with a gesture (6) 13 Adjacent lines indefinitely equidistant are said to be ________ (8) 14 Responsive to medical treatment (7) 17 Turkish meat dish cooked on a skewer (5) 19 Floppy (4) 20 Part of the underside of a boat used for stability (4)

Wordsearch Clues Andrew Anne Autumn Beatrice Camilla Charles Charlotte Diana Edward Eugenie George Harry Isla James

Kate Louise Mark Mia Peter Philip Queen Sarah Savannah Sophie Timothy William Zara

You can find the answers to the puzzles on Page 17

Be A Quitter Each New Year countless people plan to stop smoking and discover just how difficult it is. Smoking is not just a habit but a full-blown addiction and quitting may require outside help. To give up smoking requires dedication and a plan. Your chances of success are increased if you employ all the extra resources you can. Some people can stop smoking instantly, but most need help in the form of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). The NRT you choose depends on your lifestyle, habits and the extent of your addiction, so seek advice from your GP or pharmacist. There are also new prescription medicines available to help you quit. The NHS runs nationwide Stop Smoking Services and their website http://smokefree.nhs.uk is particularly useful to help you on your way to a smoke-free life. Enter your postcode to find the nearest service to you. Also included on the site are applications (apps) for download onto

your computer, iPod or iPhone, to help keep track of your success. Alternative therapies provide excellent support in a quest for a non-smoking life. They include hypnotherapy, acupuncture and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Yoga and meditation are also recommended as a way of increasing mental stamina, to help cope with the effects of nicotine withdrawal. Tell friends and family that you are quitting - their support is vital. You are far more likely to quit for good if you have your very own team of supporters cheering you on. Be prepared for the withdrawal symptoms but understand that they will almost disappear after about two weeks. Withdrawals can range from anger, anxiety, insomnia and mild depression, but by month one these feelings should have subsided. If not, a trip to the GP is recommended. Quitters who make it to four weeks smoke-free are five times more likely to stay smoke-free for good.

Many people are put off giving up smoking for fear of gaining weight. Ex-smokers can miss the comfort of having something in their mouth and often turn to sweets, which can cause the pounds to pile on. This need for oral comfort can be alleviated by CBT, hypnotherapy or sugar-free gum. Take it one day at a time and consider each day you don’t smoke as a major achievement. The human body is an amazing thing. Just 20 minutes after that last cigarette, it begins to recover. My friend had a novel way of successfully stopping: she emptied the contents of her last ashtray into a plastic bag and each time she wanted to light up, she took the bag out and sniffed it.

It can take a while, but if you’re committed to quitting, you can do it. Just keep trying and remain positive. As well as the many well-publicised health benefits you’ll gain from giving up smoking, the amount of money you’ll save is astounding. Many smokers spend over £2000 a year on cigarettes, think of the holiday you could take! Whatever your personal reasons for wanting to quit, there’s a wealth of help and support out there to help you. So make 2011 the year you become a quitter. Suki North

It worked for her! Find a method that works for you. Don’t give up hope if you relapse. Your Local quit Most people who permanently smoking have made the attempt several times. If Reliable at first you don’t succeed, try - again and again. Roofer

Your Local Reliable Roofer

Save Money - Don’t replace your windows - Repair them!

Tel: 0115 939 9125 Mob: 07977 051109 www.glazeking.co.uk | info@glazeking.co.uk

• Tiling • Slating Tiling •• Soffits Slating •• Fascias • Soffits •• Guttering Fascias •• Flat Roofs Guttering Flat Roofs •• Upvc Cladding Upvc Cladding •• Velux Windows • Velux Windows

qualityroofingnottingham@gmail.com e: e: qualityroofingnottingham@gmail.com www.qualityroofingnottingham.co.uk www.qualityroofingnottingham.co.uk

Quality Roofing Nottingham | 0115 736 5995 Quality Roofing Nottingham | 0115 736 5995

Looking to attract more customers? Looking to attract more customers?

bulk of them that are left behind at the end of the month. We deliver 20,000 copies each month to local households in need of your services. Then we check they were delivered, and then we double check. Why advertise in the AD?

Why advertise in Spotlight?

• The AD is delivered to 20,000 LOCAL homes – that’s

• Spotlight is delivered about 40,000 readers. to 38,000 LOCAL homes that’s about 70,000 readers. • We–are an established family run business – we care

about our business as much as you care about yours so • We are an established family run business – we’ll always do our best for you. we• care business a sadvertisers much as you We’llabout go theour extra mile to help make their care about yours so we’ll always doisour businesses a success. Your success ourbest success! Readers love the AD so they keep turning the pages – for•you. so as well as reading our interesting content, they see

• We’ll go the extra mile toinhelp advertisers your adverts. Advertising the AD works! mak their businesses a success. • e Our advertisers quickly becomeYour household names. • We support the local community. We offer charities success is our success!

and not for profit organisations advertising space either

• Readers love so they keep for free or at aSpotlight heavily reduced cost. turning the pages –so as well as reading our interesting content, they see your adverts. Just like your businessworks! is your 'baby', the AD is my Advertising in Spotlight

Have you thought about advertising here?

There is usually more advertising than editorial. How many of our competitors can say that?

isn’t part of a huge organisation, and every penny counts for us, we understand that every penny counts for you too.

Just like you’ll go over and above the call of duty to ensure your customers are happy, Our distribution is accurate and checked. we will go over and above the call of duty to We don’t say ‘ we print 38,000 copies’ then Of course, non-surgical procedures are also quicker, ideal for those of us who want to keep ensure our customers are happy… leave them in shops for people to pick up, our beauty secrets secret! It’s not just surgery. There has been an explosion of interest in male collecting and disposing of the bulk of them grooming products recently. These now make up an £800 million-per-year market and include that are left behind at the end of themoisturisers, month. eye creams Contact us today about advertising with intensive and self-tanners. By Colin Tyler us and find out about our friendly, flexible Beauticians have in the of men presenting for manicures. We no We deliver 38,000 copies each month tonoticed local an increase approach tonumber business. longer think smooth skin and well-groomed hands are the preserve of females. This may be households in need of you r services. Then 0115 822 4995 partly down to style icons such as footballers David Beckham and Cesc Fabregas but it may red,be and then we psychology. Six in 10 we check they were delive also down to basic men between 24 and 34 are not married and info@spotlightlocal.co.uk double check. around 50% of those are single. Perhaps we’re working harder on our appearance because

Have you thought about 90 percent of our advertisers advertising here?see such great results that they advertise on an ongoing

'baby'.

• Our quickly become Justadvertisers like you’ll go over and above the callhousehold of duty to ensure your names. customers are happy, I’ll go over and above the call of duty to

Your competition advertises. You need to stay a step ahead, so you need to advertise too. Why put your advert • We ensure my customers are happy…contact support the local community. me Wetoday offerabout advertisAnd will never be a dozen plumbers in athere huge publication where it’s hard to spot and suring in the AD and find out about our friendly, ch arities and not for profit organisationsflexible approach (or decorators or garages…) competing for rounded by competition? to business. basis The AD has 24 pages packed with interesting editorial. Thereadvertising space either for free or at a 90 percent of our advertisers see such great results that readers’attention. Julia heavily reduced cost. is never more advertising than editorial. How many of they advertise on an ongoing basis (editor and chief bottle washer) our competitors can say that? And there will never be a dozen Spotlight a local newspaper – business, a small possibly Advertising in Spotlight works because The AD is aislocal free free newspaper – a small plumbers (or decorators or garages…) competing for readers’ just like yours? Our advertising carefully priced to be the business, possibly just like isyours? Our Just like your business is your main source of people turn the pages read it, and attention. Advertising in and the ad works because people Email: most cost-effective in the area. Because the AD isn’t part of a advertising is carefully priced to be the most income, this newspaper is ours too. because there are never too many adverts for turn the pages and read it, and because there are never editor@adnewspapers.co.uk huge organisation, counts for us, we undercost-effective inand theevery area.penny Because Spotlight toosame manyproduct adverts for same product or service. the or the service. stand that every penny counts for you too.

Beauty and the Beast!

Your competition advertises. You need to stay a step ahead, so you need to advertise too. Why put your advert in a huge publication where it’s hard to spot and surrounded by competition? Spotlight has 24 pages packed with interesting editorial.

Male grooming is booming

we’re on the lookout for potential partners.

Also, researchers at London’s Guildhall University found that taking care of your appearance makes sound financial sense. They discovered, in a survey of 11,000 British 33-year-olds, that the most presentable men enjoyed a 15% higher salary than their less well-groomed colleagues. They were also more likely to be married; have more confidence; less likely to be kept waiting in bars and even liable to receive lighter sentences from juries if they ended up on trial!

Martin Page

Edwalton

No wonder it’s become macho to moisturise...now where did my girlfriend hide her Clarins?

The Beautiful Bloke’s Top Three

Male Botox Have you been accused of looking grumpy when nothing is wrong? You might have ‘angry brows’. Dysport smoothes out a male frown while maintaining the heavier, masculine appearance. It lasts one to nine months and side effects can include soreness, mild headache and bruising. Very occasionally a drooping eyelid can result but this wears off as the injection does.

West Bridgford’s Local Tree Surgeon Has your boyfriend been botoxed? No? Are you sure? Well it might be only a matter of time...

Carboxy Therapy This is termed the ‘miracle gas’ and is a treatment for sagging jowls. Carbon Dioxide is injected just below the skin. The body responds by increasing the blood flow to that area, plumping and tightening the skin. It isn’t suitable for diabetics, epileptics or those with a connective tissue disorder.

options and not just because we’re cowards. Male plastic surgery can look a bit unnatural. Due to the nature and thickness of male skin there can be more stretching and scarring.

Laser Lipolysis An alternative to surgical liposuction, particularly useful for moobs! Pockets of fat are vacuumed out through tiny incisions (about 1mm thick) while a laser destroys fat cells and tightens the skin. There is some bruising and swelling and this is not a treatment for obesity.

Have you considered? Just like the rest of your property your trees may need We’re far less open about it than women, but a growing number of us blokes are considering a maintenance from time to time? brow-freeze, a jowl-tighten orsome a love-handle-lift. On the whole we tend to favour non-surgical

Are your trees too tall, unsafe or untidy? Are they blocking light from yours, or your to neighbour’s property? Don’t forget to saycall Responding an advert? youme saw it in now on the AD! With o v e r 25 years of experience working with trees in your area I would be pleased to offer you free advice and a free quotation.

0115 906 8680

Make Do And Mend

Puzzle Solutions

Seriously though, we all need to think hard about how we’ll get through the next round of cuts. I browsed through the list of evening classes at our local college recently. There were dress-making classes, basic cookery courses, engine maintenance and one enigmatically entitled ‘up-cycling: make do and mend for modern times’. Perhaps these classes would be a good place to start for those of us looking to do our bit while we save a bit! According to a recent article in the Daily Mail, there has been an increase in sales of brisket and fish paste!

It can’t have escaped your notice that Britain has been in a time of austerity. On TV, on the radio and in every newspaper the talk is all about cuts, budget deficits and us all ‘being in this together’. Whether or not we really are all in this together is up for debate, but setting aside the political rights and wrongs of our current precarious financial situation, I wondered whether we could learn anything from our Grandparents or GreatGrandparents.

popularity.

Other staples such as custard powder and corned beef are also enjoying an upsurge in

Certainly cheaper cuts of meat are more popular at the moment as households try to manage on less income. More of us are hitting the markets in search of bargains too. Veg boxes from local greengrocers are better value than pre-packed supermarket produce.

In the 1940s everyone had to take responsibility for economising, saving and salvaging - or recycling as it is known today.

Charity shops and dress agencies may be the beneficiaries of our new state of penury as we rummage through the rails in search of bargains.

It bound people together as they found ways to cope. Ooer...this sounds rather like ‘The Big Society’ idea of today’s coalition!

We’ve had geek chic, now it’s the turn of ration fashion. Remember, you heard it here first folks.

They urged us to make-do and mend; offering hints about washing, re-using and patching; maybe we’ll even see one urging us to be creative with potatoes...perhaps adorned with a photo of Jamie Oliver pointing outwards and with the strap line Your Country Needs You.

1. Middlemarch 2. The Tiger Who Came To Tea 3. A Man For All Seasons

It seems we’re forgoing those expensive deli sandwiches in favour of a packed lunch, before we return home to tuck into a cheap and cheerful casserole followed by pud and custard.

Perhaps the time is right to reexamine how they coped with the austerity years during and just after the Second World War.

There was a lot of Government propaganda then too. Perhaps you have seen leaflets similar to those issued during the 1940s.

Solutions To Mind Benders

So perhaps the news isn’t all bad. We’re a creative and resourceful lot us Brits and few other people are better in a crisis. Like the shrub pruned back for the winter, we may even come back stronger and more beautiful than before.

The Art Of Pruning One job which lots of gardeners are reluctant to tackle is pruning. They are afraid that if they make a mess of it they will spoil, or worse still, kill the plant. But pruning is essential to the health and wellbeing of landscape plants. Any overgrown or struggling plant will benefit from a bit of cutting back and even a healthy plant benefits from a trim occasionally. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a tree or a shrub, a bush, flowers or your vegetable plants. They all benefit by pruning and trimming. Pruning makes your plant look better and feel better too. It allows the plants support system to send vital energy and nutrients to a smaller area and to prompt newer, more vigorous growth. The result will be a lusher, healthier and better-looking plant.

Autumn and winter are the best time to prune, as most species are dormant then. If you don’t prune them when they need it, some plants will get very ugly. Pruning a plant badly is not likely to ruin it forever. It’s a bit like a bad haircut, it may not look too good right now, but it will grow out. Rose pruning probably causes the most panic for most people. Begin by cutting out all the dead wood. Then open out the centre of the plant, removing any tangled or branches that cross over. This allows air to circulate, thus reducing bug and disease problems. You should reduce the remaining stems by at least one third. Using a pair of good quality, sharp secateurs, make a clean cut on an

outward facing bud located between the leaf axle and the stem of the plant. Next remove the suckers which grow below ground from the original base rose that your variety has been grafted on to. Pull these suckers off rather than cutting them. If you don’t bother to do this, your rose will revert and become a little wild. Finally rake up and remove any old leaves to prevent the spread of diseases. If you have trees which need pruning and you think the job is too big to tackle yourself, the best thing to do is call in a tree surgeon. If nothing else, this expert can give you advice

on how to go about your project and whether or not the tree is actually worth saving. For example, many flowering cherries have a finite life of about 25 to 30 years. After that they succumb to disease and the only solution is to dig up the tree and plant another one, replacing a large part of the surrounding soil at the same time. Before you start pruning make sure you have the correct equipment, as a bog standard pair of kitchen scissors just won’t cut it for this garden task. The following guide should give an idea. Hand pruners: commonly called pruners, these tools resemble a pair of pliers and come in three main types. An anvil pruner features a single, straight-edged cutting blade that closes against an anvil of softer metal. A ratchet pruner also has a straight cutting edge but it has a ratchet mechanism that cuts through the branch in stages.

Pruning is used to do the following: remove dead, weak, or unsightly branches; re-invigorate plant growth so that new leaves and branches grow faster; reshape the plant into a more desirable shape; produce a denser, bushier appearance; thin out growth, providing more air circulation and light; limit plant size.

Bypass pruners, the most popular type, cut with two curved blades that bypass each other in the manner of scissor blades.

MORE THAN JUST TYRES AND WHEEL ALIGNMENT! A L I G N M E N T S E R V I C E S LT D

O R D E R YO U R T Y R E S O N L I N E , PAY W H E N YO U C O L L E C T !

MOT

TYRES

SERVICING

Call to book yours

Order online

Call today

WHEEL ALIGNMENT expert service

Welding to MOT Standards • Repairs

HD wheel alignment

• Tyres & Repairs

Air Conditioner Servicing

• Diagnostics

Highly trained staﬀ

• MOT’s on site

35 yrs of experience

• Servicing

More than just tyres and wheel alignment!

Unit 7, County Business Park near the cattle market Nottingham NG2 3JJ

0115 959 9144

Leave A Light On

Remember to leave a light on when you leave home to deter burglars during long dark nights. Residents in Rushcliffe are being reminded to ‘leave a light on’ to deter burglars after work by volunteers, Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Community Safety team and Nottinghamshire Police.

The authorities’ joint darker nights initiative saw teams visit streets in West Bridgford, Gamston and Edwalton over two evenings and noted houses that had been left in darkness before posting a ‘leave a light on’ security advice notice through letter boxes. Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Communities and Deputy Leader Cllr Debbie Mason said: “A burglar is more likely to target a property that has been left in darkness as there is a high likelihood that the property is not occupied. “In conjunction with Nottinghamshire Police we want to remind all residents to ‘leave a light on.

“We are now at the time of year when the nights are at their longest, so please keep your doors and windows locked, and leave a light on when you are out to give the impression someone is home. “Burglars and thieves will take any chance presented to them so please don’t give them a gift of an opportunity at your home.” Rushcliffe residents can collect a free plug in timer from Rushcliffe Community Contact Centre on Rectory Road in West Bridgford to help their effort to keep their properties safe. The initiative also saw the teams check car doors on the selected streets for any insecurities, finding some vehicles had been left open. Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Community Safety team are always looking for more volunteers to help carry out exercises such as this to help make the community safer. Please email communitysafety@ rushcliffe.gov.uk to find out more.

“Where possible use a 24 hour plug in timer on a lamp, or leave a TV or radio on, to make your home always look occupied.” Rushcliffe Area Inspector Craig Berry, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “A burglary can be devastating at any time of year but around the Christmas period it can be particularly heartbreaking as people often have expensive gifts for their loved ones in their homes.

BUILDING & REPAIRS SPECIALISTS Let our highly trained and experienced staﬀ help solve all your property problems Providing an aﬀordable reliable property maintenance service to homeowners, landlords and businesses

• • • • • • •

PAINTING & DECORATING HANDY MAN SERVICES PLASTERING SERVICES DOMESTIC BUILDING INSURANCE WORK DECORATING QUICK ROOFING RELIABLE

“No Problems.... Just Solutions”

Call: 07773 019410 info@askbuildingandrepairs.com

Join Virtual Runner in West Bridgford for our second LIVE event. Take on the 2k, 5k or 10k on 14th January 2018. Date: Sunday 14th January 2018 from 9am Location: The Becket School, West Bridgford NG2 7QY Distances: 2k, 5k and 10k Price: from £8 Charity partner: Maggie’s Ability: All, whether you run a sub 20 minute 5k or plan to walk the distance everyone is welcome. Children included. Finisher’s goodies: a good quality medal www.virtualrunneruk.com/live-race-2018/

SERVICE

www.askbuildingandrepairs.co.uk

facebook.com/spotlightmags

twitter.com/SpotlightMags

Email us

info@spotlightlocal.co.uk

Give us a call 0115 822 4995

New Year New Hobby Eat healthily, start exercising, get more sleep… As you list your usual New Year resolutions, why not add in something fun for once? January is the perfect time to lift your spirits out of a winter slump by starting a new hobby, and there have never been so many activities to try. To narrow down your choice, think about what you’d like to add your life. Do you want to meet more

people? Be more active? Learn a skill? Get creative? You may want to develop something that you are already interested in, or try something completely new. Look around to find out what’s going on. Your adult education centre and library will be able to help, and you’ll find information in cafés, newsagents, community centres and local magazines.

You could try a new sport or exercise class, but getting fit doesn’t have to mean sport. Why not follow the Strictly contestants and sample the benefits of ballroom dancing or Zumba, or simply aim to get out more and enjoy the countryside? Geocaching is an exciting new outdoor activity that the whole family can enjoy. It’s essentially a high-tech treasure hunt.

with knitting and sewing groups setting up all over the country. Jewellery and card-making are also satisfying. You can get started quite cheaply and pick up the basics quickly. The bonus is that you get to keep the end result, or give it as a gift. You also have the potential to earn money by selling your creations. Increased access to computers means that we can get involved in a whole host of new communities without even leaving the house.

Another new trend is roller derby – a fast-paced contact sport where teams race to lap the opposition as they skate around the track.

Many of us enjoy researching our family trees and finding the facts behind our memories. It’s also easy to use social networks to track down old school friends and colleagues that we’ve lost touch with.

If you fancy using your mind more than your body, you could learn a new language in preparation for a foreign holiday perhaps. Or build on an existing interest by joining a photography class or book group.

And if none of these is for you, how about foraging, meditation, winetasting, line-dancing, magic tricks, bee-keeping, historical re-enactments, home baking…the list really is endless!

Music can reduce stress and improve your mood, so why not dust off that instrument you haven’t touched for years and join an amateur orchestra? Choirs are increasingly popular and you’re sure to find a range of musical styles available. Crafts have had a real boost lately,

Rotting Fascias? - Leaking Gutters? WINTER SUMMER SALE SALE UP TO

UP TO

30% OFF OFF 30%

SUMMER SALE UP TO

30% OFF

NO MORE PAINTING!!

Gutters • Fascias • Soﬃts • Bargeboards • Cladding

For a free quote call 0115 736 5990 or email us - nomorepainting@outlook.com

0115 736 5990 The nations favourite dish cooked to perfection at your venue • Only £6.20 per head • 5 star hygiene rating • Finest quality ingredients

Perfect For Any Occasion! 20

www.mobilechipshop.co.uk

I nspirational D esign I nspirational D esign

Kitchens * Bedrooms * Bathrooms

Showroom Kitchens with a Personal Touch

Family run business Over 25 years experience Free 3D planning & design Satisfied customer testimonials

0115 740 1010 or 07539 033110 www.inspirationaldesign.co.uk

Resolutions

Life Coaches

At the end of the year, most of us tend to take stock and decide to make some changes: lose weight, spend less, stop smoking. These are the most popular resolutions: Stay fit and healthy 37% Lose weight 32% Enjoy life to the fullest 28% Spend less, save more 25% Spend more time with family and friends 19% The thing is, we are creatures of habit, and it’s difficult to change things, especially when we see them as a sacrifice. Several years ago I was making my way through the supermarket checkout, when a sign on the community notice board caught my eye: “A New You For 2002”. Intrigued, I stopped to find out more and ended up signing up for a year’s life coaching. The basic aim of a life coach is to help a person realise their individual potential. Through a series of coaching sessions that usually take place weekly and often over the phone, the coach helps the client assess their current situation, identify changes or improvements they would like to make. They then helps devise strategies, tools and techniques to achieve their goals. Key to the success of this process is the special relationship of trust that develops between the coach and the client. Coaching is offered in confidence and is totally nonjudgmental and impartial. Differing from both counseling and therapy, the emphasis in coaching is not on examining or diagnosing the past, but is more about planning for the future.

Rather than focusing on how bad a problem is, the client is encouraged to consider instead the best solution for the problem. The support offered through life coaching is often holistic in nature, and is aimed at helping the individual achieve overall wellbeing by setting in balance all aspects of their life. For example, they will be encouraged to evaluate their work and home life, health, finances and social life - thus helping them to achieve a fulfilling, successful and stress-free life. The personalised support structure offered by life coaching helps the client deal with human factors like fear, doubt, a loss of stamina, negative thoughts and mental blocks that might otherwise get in the way of them achieving the results they desire. One ‘tool’ that might help change feelings of doubt and fear to ones of confidence and optimism, is the ability

to recall happy, positive memories from the past. By engaging in regular coaching sessions, an individual is able to take time out each week to look objectively at their life. Without this discipline, many would not find the time to do it. Similarly, having someone to talk to and plan with each week, helps to keep them focused and motivated.

So instead of a long list of things that we may never get round to, here are my top 3 resolutions that you should definitely make. Smile more!

Change one thing. Just one thing might be all you need to make a difference. Drink an extra glass of water daily. Buy blue eye shadow instead of brown. What one thing can you think of that will shake things up? And finally, the most important of all:Don’t make any resolutions! Save yourself untold stress and just forget about it. When you are ready to make a change, you will do it, no matter what time of year it is. So, keep in mind your general goals, to be healthier, wealthier and wiser, but do it when you’re ready, not when the calendar tells you to. Happy New Year!

It’s amazing how much brighter the world looks when you smile. The more you smile, the more people will smile back at you. Spread a little happiness to be happier, and it’s free!

So, take a look at your life as it is today, as it will be in the months and years to come. If there are things you’d like to change to make your life run better, to realise ambitions, fulfill potential, be happier and less stressed. Hopefully you will also be more profitable, more peaceful, sociable, or fun - maybe life coaching is the way forward for you! By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

What’s Happening In Our Area This is a free page to publicise your local events and information.

board games. Monthly club coffee morning.

We would love to hear from you if you know of any event in or around the West Bridgford area; copy deadline is the 20th of each month.

Call Lillian 0115 8462225 or Irene 0115 8781905 or visit our website justfriendswestbridgford.wordpress.com for further information.

Please email: info@spotlightlocal.co.uk

Nottingham Leander Swimming Club We welcome all swimmers but especially those who want to race ! Confident swimmers from age 6 upwards. All qualified coaches. Friendly and supportive ethos. Water Polo. Learn to swim classes for non-swimmers. ‘Masters’ swimming for all abilities.

West Bridgford Shopmobility is a charity which helps people with mobility problems to move easily around the shops and attractions of West Bridgford. Not only that, but we also have a short –term hire scheme so that you can take a scooter or wheelchair away on a UK holiday, or help you if you are poorly, or just discharged from hospital, or if you have a guest with mobility problems. Call us on 0115 981 5451, find us on Facebook, or at www.wbshopmobility - or visit us behind West Bridgford library on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Insanity - West Bridgford every Friday night from 6.30pm - 7.30pm in West Bridgford Baptist Church. All levels of fitness welcome. For more information, please contact Caroline on 07849 753300, email: carolinequarmby@hotmail.co.uk or Facebook: Insanity – West Bridgford. Kickers and Stompers line dancing groups. Meet regularly each week in West Bridgford, Plumtree and Radcliffe on Trent. Suitable classes for all levels of dance. Come and have fun with us. Tel 01159140673 or e.mail p.brown633@ ntlworld.com The Poppy Folk Club Sunday 17th December is our Christmas Party Night in the upstairs room at The Poppy & Pint. Sunday 21st January is concert night with O’Hooley & Tidow. Tickets are £10, telephone Juliet on 0115 9231513, email juliet@poppyfolkclub.co.uk or visit the website www.poppyfolkclub. co.uk. Just Friends West Bridgford is a very friendly group for single, local people aged 55+. 25+ events each month including theatre, coach trips, holidays, pub nights, meals out, walks, darts, snooker, card/

Wilford Racquets Badminton Club welcomes new members. We play on Wednesday evenings in West Bridgford. For further information please contact Hazel on 0115 981 5184 or Richard on 0739 884 2647

See our website leandersc.com or contact our Secretary Sue at suedavis78@gmail. com

The Nottingham Astronomical Society are a friendly group of amateur astronomers from all walks of life. Whilst providing regular guest-speaker events, we encourage active observing. The Society owns and operates an observatory near Cotgrave, which houses our 24-inch large reflector telescope.

Claire Mockridge Fitness/Pilates Mother and Baby Postnatal Fitness Classes Wednesdays 11am-12pm All Hallows Church Hall, Pierrepont Road, Lady Bay/ West Bridgford - Come along from 6-10 weeks after birth.

If you are interested in astronomy, you are welcome to come along to our meetings. Most meetings include an illustrated talk by a guest speaker, and admission is free to occasional visitors. More information on the website at www. nottinghamastro.org.uk

Phone Claire on 07747 656550, email claire@mummiesandbuggies.co.uk or see www.clairemockridge.com/postnatal

Radcliffe Sword Club Learn the exciting modern Olympic sport of fencing with Radcliffe Sword Club, meeting at the main sports hall, Clifton Leisure Centre, Southchurch Drive, Clifton, NG11 8AB. Juniors (aged 9-14): Tuesday 18:30-20:00; Adults (15+) : Tuesday 20:00-22:00 and Wednesday 20:00-22:00

The South Notts Flower Club meets on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at Edwalton Church Hall, Edwalton. All visitors are welcome. £6.00 The Edwalton, Gamston and District U3A is going from strength to strength. it has a steadily growing number with new members at every meeting. If you would like to join please contact Christine Shaw email : chrisshaw20038@ hotmail.com or telephone 0115 974 5512. We meet every 2nd Thursday in the month from 2 to 4 p.m. at Gamston Community Hall. Interested in learning bridge? Or want to return? West Bridgford Bridge Club meets at Edwalton Golf Centre 7pm every Monday night, for duplicate bridge. For more details, contact Shiona Dawson at shionadawson@gmail.com Trent Valley Sailing Club has an active junior fleet. Sailing takes place on Friday evenings between April and September for children aged 7 to 16.

Are you a memeber of a Club, Society, Group or Charity? Do you have events or fundraisers that you would like to publicise? Do you have something planned that would beneﬁt the community? If so let us know and we can include it in the next issue. Send us images and a write up about your latest sports presentation, or your upcoming play or fundraiser. We would love to help!

We have several places available this year for new junior sailors. Come and have a go on the water. All enquiries to Angela Clark@trentvalleysc.org

Email us: info@spotlightlocal.co.uk

Trent Karate Club @ Rushcliffe leisure centre Come and train with Trent Karate Club Every Monday and Thursday 7.00 - 8.30 First lesson is free, for all ages. Contact John Dornan on 01159 374706 Notts Orienteering Club is a not-for-profit community sports club run by volunteers. We offer beginners orienteering sessions in the community for people to learn how to read maps and get a bit of gentle exercise at the same time. We have three evening sessions available in Worksop, West Bridgford and Mansfield on Tues and Wed evenings. For more information call Catherine on 07940575758 or e mail hubclob@noc-uk.org

Radcliffe on Trent, Plumtree (also Bakersfield and Stapleford) Suitable for Beginners, Improvers and Intermediate Levels. For further information please contact Pat on 0115 9140673. Friends of Bridgford Park need volunteers of all ages to help keep our truly beautiful amenity in really good condition. The Friends plant, clear wooded areas, help all wildlife survive and increase. So we need people from all walks of life to join us Interested? Please contact Linda on 9819146 or Lorraine on 9816646 WEST BRIDGFORD ADVICE CENTRE is open every Wednesday morning from 9-30am to 12-30pm. at St Giles’ Church Hall, Stratford Rd, West Bridgford NG2 6AZ. Tel: 0115 9821475. No appointment necessary – we operate a drop in system. We can help with benefit claims, form filling, consumer, debt, and housing issues etc. THE ROTARY CLUB OF WEST BRIDGFORD meets every Wednesday 6.30pm for 7pm at the Country Cottage Hotel Ruddington. Enquiries for membership from both professional men and women of all ages are very welcome. Please contact webmasterwbd@rotary1220.com for more information. THEATRE ARTS WORKSHOP ...offers you the chance to have a go, whatever your age, abilty or experience! Drama Workshops, Youth Theatre and GCSE Drama Saturday classes held at Jesse Gray School, Musters Road, West Bridgford. NG2 7DD. 0115 8549175 lisa.goodlass@ntlworld.com BRIDGFORD BEADERS meet once a month at Rushcliffe Arena from 10am to 1pm. We are a very friendly group of ladies of varied ages and abilities and we are always willing to help each other. We tend to have a project each month but you are always able to do your own thing. For further info please contact Lynn 0115 9140927 . The West Bridgford Dramatic Society Why not come along on Tuesday evenings and have a good time. Get to know other members before accidentally covering them in paint during set building. Check out the events page on the web site which has the latest programme!! www.wbds.org.uk

Modern Line Dancing Classes Daytime and Evenings Held in West Bridgford,

facebook.com/spotlightmags

twitter.com/SpotlightMags

Email us

info@spotlightlocal.co.uk

Give us a call 0115 822 4995

• • • • • • • •

Bookkeeping services Payroll services VAT Returns CIS Returns Personal and corporate taxation Accounts preparation Company secretarial services Company formations

Contact Lynda on 07747792116 lynda@nottinghamaccountsandtax.co.uk

15% OFF

ROOFING CONTRACTORS

0115 811 4564

ALL QUOTATIONS THIS MONTH USING REF DER20

LUXURY FOR LESS Good kitchen design is not just an option, it is the most important part of your project. To maximise the available space in a way that improves eﬃciency, and at the same time deliver a room that is the focal point of your home”.

Kitchens • Bedrooms • Bathrooms • Home Oﬃces Kitchen design and installation experts. No expensive showrooms. We pass the savings on to you. Call for your free design and quotation.

Fitted Kitchen Design 01157 365 866 www.fittedkitchendesign.co.uk | info@fittedkitchendesign.co.uk