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F tlightO O O R West Bridgford P n
ISSUE 39 JULY 2012 FISH AND CHIPS • KEBABS • BURGERS • FISH AND CHIPS
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th sinesses each mon u B d an es om H gford Delivered to Bay and West Brid y d La , n to al w Ed in Inside this issue: • Dragon Boat Challange • Events Guide • Money Sense • Don’t Forget Fido • Are You Secure? • Age UK • Puzzles • Your Community Info • On Your Bike
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Spotlight on West Bridgford Contents
Dragon Boats 6 Motoring 8 Garden View 10 Community Information 12 Events Guide 14 Totally Locally 16 Business Focus 18 Money Sense 22 Puzzles 24 Don’t Forget Fido 26 Age UK 27 Computer 28 On Your Bike 30 Are You Secure 32 Index of Advertisers 34
Published by Spotlight Local Media Ltd Company No. 6841257 Tel: 0115 822 4995 Suite 104, 1 Hanley Street Nottingham NG1 5BL Graphic Design and Layout: Spotlight Local Media Distributed by leafletmedia.co.uk
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Hello everyone, Well it’s summer, and it’s raining. Must be Wimbledon! Its traditional I suppose. Plenty of good reading in this months mag, so I hope you find something of interest while sitting with feet up over a cup of coffee. If there is anything you would like to see in the magazine please let us know, also if you have any events or activities that we should all know about just email me and we will try to fit it in the mag. Thanks as always for supporting our local businesses and economy. Spotlight magazine is delivered to 6,200 homes and businesses in the West Bridgford area each month. To Advertise or contribute: T: 0115 822 4995 E: info@spotlightlocal.co.uk Web:www.spotlightlocal.co.uk
To eadvertise contribute call 07595 510190 mail us atorinfo@spotlightlocal.co.uk
Image: Duck & Cointreau Pâté taken from “Take Home The Taste Of Wilford Green”
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Lifestyle & Leisure
Dragon Boat Spectacular! Be part of this sporting summer and enter a team in Nottingham Dragon Boat Spectacular! With just a month to go until the entry deadline, companies, clubs and organisations from across the region are getting their teams together for the hugely popular annual Nottingham Riverside Festival Dragon Boat Challenge which takes place on Sunday 5th August in aid of Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. The Dragon Boat Challenge has fast become one of the most eagerly anticipated events in the local and regional events calendar and it’s a great opportunity to enjoy some healthy endeavour during the Olympic period – at a sport you don’t need to be Steve Redgrave to excel at! With 25 teams already signed up to take part this year, the event promises to be just as successful if not better than last year, which saw 38 teams ‘racing the dragon’. A large proportion of the entries are new teams each year and as technique and timing are more likely to win the day than physical prowess, even if you haven’t the stamina and strength of Jessica Ennis, you still have an even chance. Also, with more than one prize on offer there really is something for every team to aim for. Trophies will be presented to the winning crew, the top mixed crew (minimum 5 ladies), the ‘best dressed’ crew and the crew raising the most money for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. The top fundraisers for Rainbows will also receive a special meal kindly donated by Opium Restaurant in Nottingham. Last year’s top fundraisers were Mitie Residential Solutions
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who raised £700 in sponsorship for Rainbows in addition to the £750 donated through their gold entry. Exciting, colourful and great fun, no previous experience is required to enter a team of up to 11 people into the event, just plenty of team spirit and enthusiasm! The dragon boats, qualified helms and all racing equipment are provided and each crew is guaranteed a minimum of three races. The Challenge promises a fantastic day for competitors and spectators alike with all the attractions of the Riverside Festival to enjoy including a bustling fair and vibrant mix of music, dance, crafts and food from around the world. The Challenge helps raise much-needed funds for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People and other good causes. Rainbows is the only children’s hospice in the East Midlands and cares for over 230 local children and their families every year. Katie Baxter, Events Manager at Rainbows Hospice, says, “The Dragon Boat Challenge is a fantastic opportunity for Rainbows as it gives us a chance to raise essential funds with the help of the local community. Thanks to everyone involved, we are able to continue to be there.” To make sure
your company, club or group of friends is on the start line on Sunday 5th August please call Gable Events on 01780 470718 or visit the Dragon Boat Challenge website at www.dragonboatfestivals. co.uk/nottingham
Photos courtesy of Satalight Photography
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Motoring
Are used tyres a bargain?
I
n February 2008, the owner of a 1998 Ford Explorer in Georgia needed a new tyre for his SUV and ended up buying a used one. When he was driving two weeks later, the tread suddenly separated from the tyre. The Explorer went out of control and hit a motorcycle, killing its rider. An analysis of the used tyre revealed that it was nearly 10 years old.
Don’t Buy Used Tyres are expensive, especially when you factor in the price of mounting and balancing. That’s why used tyres become more attractive to consumers who are strapped for cash. But the purchase of used tyres is very much a buyer-beware situation. Even a one-year-old tyre can be dangerous if it was poorly maintained.
The incident illustrates not only the potential danger of buying a used tyre but also the perils of aging tyres — including those that have never spent a day on the road.
When a consumer buys a used tyre, he has no idea how well it was maintained or the conditions in which it has been used. The previous owner might have driven it with low pressure. It could have hit curbs repeatedly. It could have been patched for a nail. Further, it’s a dated product. You shouldn’t want a used tyre for the same reason that you wouldn’t buy a 10-year-old computer. You are denying yourself the advancements in tyre technology over the past few years.
For years, people have relied on a tyre’s tread depth to determine its condition. But the rubber compounds in a tyre deteriorate with time, regardless of the condition of the tread. An old tyre also poses a safety hazard. What Happens to a Tyre as It Ages? Sean Kane, president of Safety Research & Strategies, Inc., compares an ageing tyre to an old rubber band. “If you take a rubber band that’s been sitting around a long time and stretch it, you will start to see cracks in the rubber.” That’s essentially what happens to a tyre that’s put on a vehicle and driven. Cracks in the rubber begin to develop over time. They may appear on the surface and inside the tyre as well. This cracking can eventually cause the steel belts in the tread to separate from the rest of the tyre. Improper maintenance and heat accelerate the process. Tyres on a car that’s only driven on the weekends will have a different aging pattern than those on a car that’s driven daily on the highway. All these factors contribute to how quickly or slowly a tyre wears out. Proper maintenance is the best thing a person can do to ensure a long tyre life. For example maintain proper air pressure in tyres, have them rotated regularly and have them routinely inspected.
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Tyres are like a roll of tape. Quite literally. As explained by one of the professors at General Motors Institute, when you drive your car, you “unwind” your tyres, leaving a thin layer of rubber on the road as you go. Eventually, like a roll of tape, you reach the core, and you throw that away. A bald tyre is worth nothing. In fact, a nearly bald tyre is worth nothing, too, as you need to have 1.6mm of tread for a tyre to be legal. A tyre with 2mm of tread is only a few hundred miles from being replaced - and probably not safe in the rain. Many people think that tyres with “half the tread left” are worth half the cost of a new set. But since “half the tread” represents less than half the tread life, they are worth less - far less. Then there are fitting and balancing costs to add too. So you are, in effect, paying more for used tyres than you are for new ones. Which of course makes no economic sense.
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Home and Garden
The Great British Tradition
J
uly is the beginning of the school holiday period, and as many people dream of their annual trip, there’s no better place I’d rather be than in a garden. Whether I’m surrounded by the sweet smelling jasmine on a formally planted Italian hillside, or the heady scent of Lavender in southern France, or the gentle aroma of the old English rose, if the sun is shining and I’m sat in a space filled with plants, I’m on holiday. I guess it’s lucky that I have a great garden at home, which makes me feel like that every time I step into it.
provide many scenic walks through the woodland and the smell of the fresh clean air really does cleanse the soul. It’s as if you can smell the earthy growth of spring. After a few months back at home our next trip took us to the beautiful gardens of Devon and Cornwall, where a visit to the fabulous Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Eden project were combined with more modest privately owned back yards where lots of homemade scones were consumed!
We then moved across the country to stay with friends in Kent, ‘The Garden of England’, where we visited a host We’re not going on holiday this year as of National Trust gardens, as well as I’m hoping for a great British summer, Sissinghurst (famed for its white garden) (support the nation during the recession and Great Dixter (home of the belated and all that), so Christopher Lloyd), we’ve decided to and finally up to the holiday at home Cotswolds to see Jobs to do this month which I believe is Laurence Johnson’s fashionably known Hidcote and the Dead head flowering shrubs such as a ‘staycation’. much talked about as roses for continued flowering Instead of lining private garden of the pockets of Dead head flowering shrubs such Prince Charles. our European as roses for continued flowering. neighbours, we’re Quite a year and going on a road trip quite a trip, a very Paint the fence and other wooden around our country British summer structures to see how many filled with afternoon gardens we can tea, cucumber Raise the height of the blades on cram into one week. sandwiches and a the mower so you don’t stress out G&T … the grass too much The last time we did this we began Game of croquet Take cuttings from Dianthus our trip in May, in anyone? (Pinks/Carnations). the Highlands of Scotland, where we Ensure Camellias and were just in time for Rhododendrons are fed and the fabulous array watered to ensure great flowers of Rhododendrons next year and Azaleas. The cool damp gardens
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Community Information
Whats happening in your area This is a free page to publicise your local events and information. We would love to hear from you if you know of any event in or around the West Bridgford area; copy deadline is the 25th of each month. Please email dave@ spotlightlocal.co.uk or write to The Editor, Spotlight Magazine, Suite 104, 1 Hanley St, Nottingham NG1 5BL. Belvoir Archers are doing a new 6 week beginners course starting 21st July, more details email coaching@belvoirarchers.co.uk or visit www. belvoirarchers.co.uk The Poppy Folk Club Sunday 15th July Singaround and music session at The Poppy and Pint, Pierrepont Road, Lady Bay. All are welcome to come along and sing a song, play some tunes, or just listen. There is no meeting in August, but we’ll be back again in September for another singaround and music session. For more details see the website www.poppyfolkclub.co.uk or contact Julie & Phil 0115 9812861, email: phil@poppyfolkclub.co.uk. POT! PRINT! PAINT! DRAW! Art Classes in Lady Bay www.seymourroadstudios.co.uk / 0115 9822681 We are taking enrollments now for our August Summer Specials DRAWING & PAINTING: Time for Tea: Wednesday 8th, Thursday 9th, Friday 10th August POTTERY: Time for Tea too! : Wednesday 8th, Thursday 9th, Friday 10th August PRINT-MAKING: Phew .. what a relief! : Thursday 16th August Please see our website for more information on individual programmes, prices and block-booking discounts NB Each three day course will follow a progression in order to develop their themes but will be designed with flexibility in mind so that those who wish to mix and match or those who are only able to book one or two days of a course will also be able to get the most out of their time. www.seymourroadstudios.co.uk Tel: 0115 9822681 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 The Poppy Folk Club Sunday 10th June 7:30pm. The Poppy and Pint, Pierrepont Road, Lady Bay. David Gibb and Elly Lucas. Tickets £7.50. Contact Julie and Phil 0115 9812861 or see the website for more details: www.poppyfolkclub.co.uk. The next meeting will then be Sunday 15th July when we have a singaround and music session. All are welcome to come along, sing a song or two, play some tunes, or just enjoy listening to some great live music in good company.
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Taekwon-Do (ITF) West Bridgford – www. tkdnottingham.co.uk New Class in Lady Bay @ Poppy & Pint Function Room (Upstairs). From beginner to black-belt. Training Twice A Week, Monday & Thursday evenings. Free Trial Session. One of the Top 10 Martial Arts in the World. Like Karate but with more emphasis on kicking. Great for Self Defence, Fitness & Suppleness, Self Confidence, Discipline & Respect. Contact Marcus Reilly (2nd Dan) 07973 405362, marcus.r@ntlworld.com CRB Checked, Valid Insurance, First Aid Certificate. Wilford Karate school - www.karate-nottingham. com/ We teach traditional Shotokan Karate to people from 7 years through to adults. Our club is part of a world wide federation and offers the unique opportunity to train under Master Asano Hanshi, 9th Dan. All abilities 7yrs + Mon 7-8pm Thu 7:30-8:30pm Brown and Black belts (Honbu) Tue 7:30-8:30pm At Nottingham Emmanuel School – Wilford. Contact C Goronwy 0115 9814246 for more details Mirabilé is looking for quality trained and/or experienced soprano singers. We are a small ladies ensemble covering a wide range of repertoire from early music to contemporary arrangements, both in English and other languages. We rehearse Monday evenings from 8.00-10.00pm in West Bridgford. For enquiries or audition details please contact: Alison Smith on 0115 9143510 alisonsmith20101@hotmail.co.uk
Nottingham Hardy Plant Society meeting at West Bridgford Community Hall, Church Drive, West Bridgford, NG2 6AY at 7.30pm. Sugar and Spice and all Things Nice by Dr. Myleechreest explores the range of plants for the benefit of humans such as food, decoration and medicine. Members free. Guests free admission on first visit and £3.00 for subsequent meetings. For further information about the Group or meetings please contact Sylvia Bennett 01949 836882 or see www.hardy-plant.org.uk/groups/nottingham
MODERN LINEDANCING CLASSES:- Daytime and Evenings Held in West Bridgford, Radcliffe on Trent, Plumtree (also Bakersfield and Stapleford) Suitable for Beginners, Improvers and Intermediate Levels. For further information please contact Pat on 0115 9140673. Rushcliffe Photographic Society is the areas leading camera club and we welcome all photographers over 18, whether novices or experienced. We meet on Tuesday evenings from 7:30 pm until 10 pm and offer a varied and exciting programme of events and activities from September to June.. You can find out more at www.rushcliffephotosoc.co.uk’
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Community Information Local Events Guide
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West Bridgford Online
Your local website
Wednesday 11th July – Mood Indigo – Monkey Tree Thursday 12th July – Roy D’Wolff – Fire & Ice Thursday 12th July – Paul Tabor – Test Match Thursday 12th July – Richie Muir – Monkey Tree Friday 13th July – Distillery Blues Band – Test Match Sunday 15th July – Poppy Folk Club Singaround and Music Session - Poppy and Pint Sunday 15th July – Tee Dymond – Copper Wednesday 18th July – Mood Indigo – Monkey Tree Thursday 19th July – The Money – Fire & Ice Thursday 19th July – Kit Mason – Test Match Thursday 19th July – Richie Muir – Monkey Tree Friday 20th July – Benson – Test Match
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Sunday 22nd July – Kris Ward – Copper Wednesday 25th July – Mood Indigo – Monkey Tree Thursday 26th July – Roy D’Wolff – Fire & Ice Thursday 26th July – Richie Muir – Monkey Tree Friday 27th July – The Pepperhearts – Test Match Sunday 29th July – Rich Howell – Copper Wednesday 1st August - Ladies Night (£15 3 course tapas & half price cocktails all night) - Belle & Jerome Wednesday 1st August – Mood Indigo – Monkey Tree Thursday 2nd August – Richie Muir – Monkey Tree Sunday 5th August – Richie Muir – Copper Wednesday 8th August – Mood Indigo – Monkey Tree Thursday 9th August – Richie Muir – Monkey Tree
Brought to you by West Bridgford Online – www.westbridgfordonline.com Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/westbridgfordonline Follow us on Twitter - @westbridgfordol
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Community Information
T
Totally Locally
here is a real buzz amongst Totally locally independent businesses, many have only been open for a little while but their passion and high quality of goods and services seems to go down well with our local residents.
keep overheads low and allows the company to offer customers what they believe are the lowest prices available in the area. For further information contact Martin Thomas on gas@betterenergy.org. uk or by phone on 0115 846 0438.
Jo and Diane opened Tiffin, a traditional English Tea house on Abbey Road. Stepping through the door takes you to a gentler era, when taking time for tea and cake, or a hearty breakfast was essential and lunch was ‘taken’ rather than eaten on the run.
Another thriving business is The Service Tree, set up over 7 years ago to meet a growing demand for Home Support Services in West Bridgford & the surrounding area. The company has grown from strength to strength offering a holistic approach to residents in the local community.
Parking is made easy, and tranquillity is bliss. They share the parade with a string of specialized shops including: Bromley designer wear, a butchers, hairdressers, bridal wear, curtain makers, and guitar shop From talking to local people they learnt that there have been a variety of businesses on Abbey Road, that over the years have contributed to the local economy. A couple whom visited Tiffin told them that the bridal shop opposite, was a post office, which they managed over 50 years ago and that Tiffin was once a green grocers. There has to be a wealth of history surrounding Abbey Road and its occupants. Are you a resident that might want to share your memorabilia? If so Jo and Diane would love to hear from you. Bring along your photos and reminisce with a pot of tea and piece of home made cake. Different but equally useful is our own Totally Locally energy supplier Better Energy Supply Ltd, run by Martin Thomas on Musters Road. He supplies gas directly to domestic and business customers and plans to start supplying electricity later this year. Like the larger and better-known energy suppliers, the company is licensed by the national energy regulator Ofgem, and is subject to the same quality standards. Better Energy’s focus is on the local area, with over 80% of existing customers within 10 miles of West Bridgford. This helps to
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Working in partnership with social care & health agencies they are now employing 10 local people. “Having met so many lovely, local independent businesses through the Service Tree, I am keen to be involved in assisting to grow the Totally Locally scheme. We would like to speed up this process and offer local business people in West Bridgford the opportunity to come together for a networking event with a difference. On Thursday 19th July from 6pm at Signature we are organising our first Totally Locally Speed Networking meeting will be on Melton Road.” Tickets are £4.50 including refreshments. Call The Service Tree on 07837 295 559 for more information or to reserve your place or email .info@theservicetree.co.uk We at Totally locally are pleased to hear that so many new and young people are setting up their own businesses, contributing to the rich tapestry of lovely independent shops we are blessed with in West Bridgford. We encourage you to pop in, meet up and explore, give constructive feedback, and if service, price and goods are up to your standard, continue to support them and spread the word!
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Karina Wells
e mail us at info@spotlightlocal.co.uk
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Business Focus
B
Beyond The Looking Glass
eyond the looking Glass offer a comprehensive range of clothing alterations and design services for both ladies and gents. No matter how simple or complex the alteration requirment, clients are assured of the highest quality of work, personal service and professionalism at affordable prices.
Whether you need the shoulder-line of a jacket, blazer or coat re-shaped, Beyond The Looking Glass will ensure the client understands all the available options in achieving the perfect fit.
“ Helen says the philosophy of Beyond The Looking Glass is to achieve the perfect clothing fit and to develop the clients own personal style for any occasion.”
Each and piece of clothing in their wardrobe is looked at and discussed with the view to having your favorite pieces, re-modeled, re-lined or simply repaired. “Clients say it’s like having a whole new wardrobe at a fraction of the price.”
The re-styling and re-lining services are extremely popular with clients. It provides a cost effective way to update your designer outfits and every day clothing.
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Whats new? Helen is now offering her “wardrobe detox services.” A home consultation is made at the clients convenience.
Contact: Helen Priest 0115 7529532 or 07951 937233 hpriest.beyondthelookingglass@gmail.com
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Dust Busters
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Business Focus
S
Job for Life?
hamshad Walker started working for the NHS after graduating from Nottingham Trent University. She worked hard to develop her career expecting this to be a job for life. But due to the constant changes in the public sector this is no longer the case for anyone. Over the past year many people have had to come to terms with cuts in the public sector and for some it’s been an opportunity to do something different with their lives. Shamshad’s last post was based in Leicester, she was commuting each day. She worked long hours and never had enough time with her family. She said ‘The opportunity for redundancy gave me a chance to review my life. I have taken on a new challenge and now have more time with my children.’ Based in West Bridgford Shamshad has launched Citylocal Nottingham. This
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new exciting Premium Business Directory is aimed at helping to promote local businesses across Nottinghamshire. She is looking for the most reputable businesses to show case in her directory. Citylocal Nottingham is a useful website for the community, it has lot’s of local information such as jobs, property, cinema listings and events. You can also go on and advertise for free or add reviews about local businesses. Shamshad said ‘Being self-employed is hard work but I love every day. I feel very privileged to be part of the vibrant business community in Nottingham.’ For more information about Citylocal Nottingham look at www.citylocal.co.uk/ Nottingham
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B
LB Plumbing & Heating Lee Brown
Your Affordable & local Gas Engineer
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Money Sense
A
Life Cover for Business Owners
nyone who knows me will know that I am passionate about my clients’ finances and ensuring that they are financially fully protected. As well as individuals, I work with a number of small businesses and so my top tip this month is for company directors. If you are a company director, as well as an employee of the company, and you have life cover, it could be worth exploring whether a Relevant Life Policy would better suit your circumstances. These policies are a way of providing death in service benefits on an individual basis, no matter how small your business is. What it means is that your company makes the payments for you so it won’t form a part of your annual or lifetime pension allowance and could be treated
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as an allowable business expense for the company. A relevant life policy is suitable for those employers who, perhaps are owners and directors of small businesses and don’t want to set up group arrangements for all their employees or want to provide additional benefits to high-earning individual employees or themselves. The only drawback is that they are unsuitable for self employed or equity partners themselves. From more information on this or any other of your business protection needs, including key man insurance, shareholder protection, loan protection, ownership protection, taxation and trusts, contact me at justin@itmakessense.net Or call 0115 837 8620.
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Martin Page
Edwalton &
West Bridgford’s Local Tree Surgeon Have you considered? Just like the rest of your property your trees may need some maintenance from time to time? Are your trees too tall, unsafe or untidy? Are they blocking light from yours, or your neighbour’s property? 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.
call me now on
0115 906 8680
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Puzzle Page How to play Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through to 9, with no repetition! That’s all there is to it. You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic - there’s no maths involved and no adding up. It’s fun! Challenging! It’s addictive!
Crossword Clues Across 1 Type of tyre (6) 4 Mountain lion (4) 7 Worth (5) 8 Nuts used in marzipan (7) 10 Skin irritation (4) 11 On the same side (sport) (8) 14 H20 (5) 15 Cost (5) 18 Mystery (8) 20 Prophetic sign (4) 22 Opposed to (7) 24 Precise (5) 25 Remain (4) 26 Dress-down ______ (6) Down 1 Not keen (9) 2 Bambi (4) 3 Awestruck (6) 4 Expert (3) 5 Among, in the middle of (5) 6 Stay away from (5) 9 Recollection (6) 12 Travel with (9) 13 Devise (6) 16 Dairy spread (6) 17 Bring together (5) 19 Opposite of day (5) 21 Loan (4) 23 Evergreen climber (3)
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Congratulations to Mr Graham Mee of Edwalton for winning the Sunday Lunch for 4 competition at the Lady Bay Pub
Quick Crossword
ToTo advertise contribute 07595 Advertiseorcall Spotlight call on 0115 822510190 4995
Word Search Olympic Sports Archery Athletics Badminton Basketball Boxing Dressage Fencing Football Handball Hockey Judo Jumping Kayaking Road cycling Rowing Sailing Shooting Taekwondo Tennis Track cycling Trampoline Triathlon Volleyball
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Lifestyle & Leisure Don’t Forget Fido!
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n the excitement of preparing for a holiday or weekend away, don’t forget to make arrangements for your pets! There are several options to ensure your pet is cared for properly - leave them with friends or family, hire a pet-sitter, or board them. As a change of routine can be very stressful to pets, asking a responsible and familiar family member or friend to care for them may be the best solution. However, if this is not possible, the next best thing might be to employ a pet-sitter who would visit your home to feed, clean and exercise your pet. Be sure to meet your sitter before employing them, ask for references and police checks and make sure they have insurance.
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If you decide to board your pet, take time to find a kennel, cattery or small animal boarder that will suit your pet. Pay a visit beforehand and check that they are licensed, insured, and that the facilities are secure, clean, dry and draught free. Also check that the animals look clean, happy and healthy. Whatever arrangements you decide on, be sure to choose someone responsible and give them clear instructions about diet, exercise, medication and how to socialise with your pet. Now go and enjoy your holiday, confident that your pet will be in safe hands! By Debbie Singh-Bhatti
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ToTo advertise contribute 07595 Advertiseorcall Spotlight call on 0115 822510190 4995
Lifestyle & Leisure
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Age UK Business Directory
ge UK Nottingham & Nottinghamshire is celebrating the 4th anniversary of the local Age UK Business Directory of Trusted ‘checked’ businesses. The online directory was launched to help older people, their carers, families, and friends connect with companies and organisations, offering reliable products or services. Although originally set up to help people in later life, anyone can access and use the directory. Age UK Nottingham & Nottinghamshire is currently working with over 200 local reputable businesses. All members of the directory are fully insured, reference checked and are committed to the local Age UK Customer Charter. Age UK also act as a mediator should any problems occur.
The site includes businesses such as; Builders, Decorators, Gardeners, Plumbers, Electricians, Roofers, Handyman, Solicitors, Mobility Aids, Carers (just to name a few). So please visit www.aubd.co.uk If you do not have access to a computer, Age UK has provided a free phone number so that our trained staff can consult the directory for you and provide you with the contact details of the most appropriate businesses. Simply call 0800 011 4643.
Business directory
Connecting you with traders you can trust Put your mind at rest and visit the Age UK Business Directory today • Large selection of trustworthy traders and businesses • Checked by local Age UK staff
Call free
0800 011 4643 or visit us online
Registered Charity Number: 1067881
Please mention Spotlight when responding to an ad
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Technology
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Summers Coming
s summer approaches, the temperature in theory goes up. What does this do to your computer? Well, the hotter the computer gets, the slower it goes. I see a lot of computers that have been put into a closed cupboard, or have been surrounded by lots of books and magazines. This blocks up the airflow around the computer and causes it to overheat. I also service a lot of computers that have a significant layer of dust inside, which blocks up the fans, processor coolers and can be a fire hazard. The overheating of the computers or laptop will cause them to run slowly, their fans will start to work harder, making more noise and things like the hard drives will start to heat up and eventually fail. What should you do? Firstly, ensure that the computer has lots of airspace around it so that the internal fans can work efficiently – at the front, sides and back of the computer. Why not treat your computer to a summer
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clean up and get myself to come round and service the computer – cleaning out the dust inside it, checking that your processor fans and the case fans (if fitted) are working efficiently. If you don’t have any fans in the computer casing, get some fitted. If you are using a laptop, keep it on a hard surface – table, tray etc. Again, get it cleaned by an IT professional. Laptop trays with fans in that are powered by USB are very useful, the fans blow air directly into the laptop casing helping to keep them cool. If you have your desktop computer sat on the floor or carpet, get it raised up by 3 or 4 inches. This will help to reduce the amount of dust the fans suck into the casing. Houses with new carpets or pets seem to produce the most dust inside the cases. If you have any questions, call Bryan from Midland Data Networks (01949 876 098) or email sales@midlanddatanetworks.co.uk
To To advertise orcall contribute 07595 510190 Advertise Spotlightcall on 0115 822 4995
e and ing Servic Clean Try our Let the sun shine get 2 hours ironing for free in this Summer Typically from £11.75 per hour
Ellis Double Glazing Repair Services offer a brand newBook service, Conservatory Cleaning Now!!
Ian Ellis of Ellis Glazing Services is now offering Conservatory Cleaning, “Ihttp://so began offering this omestique .co.uk uthnotts.d service earlier in the year before when I cleaned the after conservatory of a friend. The neighbours on both sides saw the transformation and asked me to do theirs and in the end I cleaned 4 conservatories on that street alone!” With over 20 years in the Glazing Industry and a good head for heights, Ian feels offering this service complements his existing business. “Sometimes a conservatory builds a greenish film up over time and a normal window cleaner can’t reach it, this is where I specialise. If the conservatory has other problems, leaks, drafts etc. I can sort them out as well.” So why not give Ian a call and let the sun shine in this Summer.
0115 871 4010 You can also have a Spring Clean from as little as £97.5 0
ELLIS DOUBLE GLAZING - REPAIR SERVICE • UPVC, Aluminium Windows, Doors & Patios • Replacement Units (misted glass) • Locks, Handles and Hinges • Security Locks for Patio / Double Doors / Safety Chains • Leaks and Draughts • Doors Catching • Shrunken Rubber Seals Replaced • Window Cleaning • Letterbox Replacements • Gutter Cleaning • Conservatory Cleaning • Emergency boarding up and glass replaced (insurance work undertaken)
For advice and a prompt, friendly, reliable service
Call Ian Ellis on
0115 940 0525 / 0770 603 1690 Based in Gedling
e mail us at info@spotlightlocal.co.uk
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Lifestyle & Leisure On Your Bike
So you’ve decided to join the biking brigade, but how do you go about choosing the right bike for you? First, decide on the type of cycling you intend doing. Will you be cycling as a means of transport, or purely for recreation? Then choose your bike accordingly.
Is the future two-wheeled? I don’t know about you, but I dread each visit to the fuel station at the moment because I never have a clue how much a litre of diesel is going to cost. I do wonder if running a vehicle will be an unaffordable luxury in a year or two’s time. But maybe I shouldn’t despair, perhaps there is a solution to at least some of our transport problems which, in addition to being fast, cheap and reliable, is also good for you and the environment! “On your bike,” I hear your sceptical retort - and you couldn’t be nearer the truth! Travel by bike does not require vehicle tax, an MOT, breakdown cover, or a visit to the fuel station. It is convenient and efficient, and usually avoids road works, traffic jams, vying for parking spaces and other road hazards that raise the blood pressure. It firms the thighs and buttocks, tones tummy muscles and increases the metabolic rate. Now if all that isn’t enough to make you jump up and don helmet and reflective armbands, I don’t know what will!
Traditional bikes are a great low maintenance option for everyday use but tend to be a bit heavy. If you are willing to sacrifice comfort in favour of speed, then a racing bike may be the one for you, but perhaps the most popular and practical choice is a mountain or hybrid bike, with their strong frame, knobbly tyres and wide range of gears that cope well both off and on road. Before venturing out, make sure that both brakes work well, both tyres are pumped up and that the saddle is the correct height. Check that the handle bars are tightened, and be sure to wear light coloured or fluorescent clothing that won’t get tangled in the chain or wheels. Wearing a helmet, though advisable, is not required by law. Don’t cycle in too high a gear as this will tire you and keep at least a metre between you and the kerb. You aren’t allowed to cycle on the pavement, but you can use the bus lane if you need to. So, armed with all these hints, tips and facts, there’s nothing left for you to do now but get on your bike and save yourself a small fortune at the fuel station! Debbie Singh-Bhatti
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To advertise or contribute call 07595 510190 To Advertise call Spotlight on 0115 822 4995
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 Stage for Disco’s and Bands
0115 9811251
07775 876964
claire.ceas@hotmail.co.uk
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Home and Garden
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Are You Secure
oing on holiday is something we look forward to, a break from the rat race for a week or two. Of course the last thing you want to do while you’re away is worry about whether your home is safe, so here are some simple tips on security which will help to ensure that everything is how you left it on your return. If you have milk or newspaper deliveries, make sure they are suspended while you are away. Ensure your valuables and jewellery are locked away out of sight, or place them in a safety deposit box with your bank. You can buy timers that will switch your lights and radio on and off at pre-determined times, giving the impression that someone is in the house.
Turn the ringer volume down on your telephone so no-one can hear in passing that your phone isn’t being answered. Probably most important thing to do is make sure you’ve locked up properly! Check all your window locks, and make sure all doors are fully locked too. Enjoy your holiday! Rita Williams-Hall
Ask a good friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your house. Never leave your keys under a mat or flowerpot. If your house has a driveway where you normally park, ask a friend or neighbour to park their vehicle there occasionally.
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ToToadvertise call 07595 510190 e mail usor atcontribute info@spotlightlocal.co.uk Advertise call Spotlight on 0115 822 4995
e mail us at info@spotlightlocal.co.uk
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Index of Advertisers Aerials A1 Astral Aerials.......................7 Antiques ABC Antiques.........................17 Carers First Class Care........................3 Carpets & Flooring Carpet Image..........................36 Transformafloor........................23 Cleaning Services Jackson Cleaning....................25 Domestique.............................29 Dust Busters............................19 Clothing Alterations Through The Looking Glass....25 Computer Midland Data Services............28 Alford PC Repairs....................30 Estate Agents Eazi-Move...............................35 Electrical Services Icon Electrical Services..........19 Financial Services Sense......................................22
Garden Services Charnwood Tree Surgeon.........23 Abbey Drives..........................17 Health and Keep Fit Zest Health & Fitness................7 Kitchens Ellis Interiors............................26 Inspirational Designs...............13 Interior Fitting & Designs.........33 Joiners K W Joinery............................. 26 Motoring Nottingham Wheel Alignment..37 Painting / Decorating Phil Sargeant...........................34 Pets Dial a Dog Wash.......................4 Be Pack Leader.......................13 Plasterers IRS Plastering..........................21 Bramcote Plastering................30 Plumbing & Heating MCK.........................................11 Nottm Combi Svcs....................7 Aquawave...............................29
L B Plumbing.......................... 21 UK Gas....................................13 Property Services Spectrum................................ 21 Space Master..........................21 Pearsons Property.................26 Icke 1st Mainenance...............19 Restaurants Wilford Green............................5 Roofing RSJ..........................................15 Stairlifts Liftec.......................................15 Solar Energy Willpower Solar........................19 Takeaway Food West Bridgford Chippy..............1 Tiling I B Tiling..................................31 Venues The Boat Club.........................31 Windows & Doors Ellis Double Glazing................29 True Window Care.....................2 Wills and Probate Get a will today........................17
Puzzle Solutions
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To Advertise call Spotlight on 0115 822 4995
www.carpetimage.co.uk